Neuropsychiatric symptoms as early indicators of brain tumors.

Brain tumors, despite the high mortality and morbidity, they are a rare type of heterogenous tumors that are highly dependent on sex, age, race, level of education, and socioeconomic status. Due to their high mortality rates, it is important to identify as many potential biomarkers for early detection as the earlier the tumor is discovered, the better the prognosis. One such early biomarker we propose in the current paper is the assessment of anxiety, depression, and cognitive changes.

Efficacy and safety of different hyaluronic acid fillers on cheek volume augmentation: systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Background: Various rejuvenation surgeries, including hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, aim to address mid-face volume loss. However, literature on the comparative efficacy and safety of different HA fillers for the zygomatic area remains limited.

Methods: This systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA), adhering to NMA PRISMA 2020 and Cochrane guidelines.

Longitudinal Evaluation of Renal Function in Patients with Acquired Solitary Kidney-Urological Perspectives Post-Nephrectomy.

: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant global health challenge, affecting approximately 10% of the population. Patients with an acquired solitary kidney (ASK) from nephrectomy face elevated risks for CKD progression because of the increased functional demand on the remaining kidney. This study aims to identify risk factors for CKD progression in patients with a surgical ASK, highlighting the challenges faced by this population.

A Global Perspective on Transition Models for Pediatric to Adult Cystic Fibrosis Care: What Has Been Made So Far?

Interest in the transition of care for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients has grown significantly over time, driven by advancements in treatment that have extended life expectancy. As more CF patients survive into adulthood, the need for structured transition strategies has become a priority for healthcare systems worldwide. Transition programs for CF differ globally, reflecting varying resources and healthcare systems.

Characterizing Managerial Decision Making in Public Hospitals: A Case Study from Romania.

Background/objectives: Our study investigates the primary characteristics of managerial decision-making processes in the public hospital units in Romania, particularly in the Northeast region. This research aims to delineate the decision-making model applied by managers in these units, considering the multitude of legislative, economic, technical, ethical, and organizational changes prompted by the pandemic.

Methods: A mixed-method research approach was utilized, combining semi-structured interviews and autoethnography, to capture experiences, attitudes, perceptions, motivations, and ethical considerations of decision-makers within the healthcare system.

The Involvement of Resolvins in Pathological Mechanisms of Periodontal Disease Associated with Type 2 Diabetes: A Narrative Review.

Resolvins are specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) derived from omega-3 fatty acids that play a critical role in resolving inflammation and restoring tissues to a state of health after an immune response. Their role in chronic inflammatory conditions highlights their importance in maintaining a balance between an effective immune response and the resolution of inflammation to prevent tissue damage. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth, leading to gum damage and bone loss.

Chitosan-Electrospun Fibers Encapsulating Norfloxacin: The Impact on the Biochemical, Oxidative and Immunological Profile in a Rats Burn Model.

This study investigates the impact of chitosan-based nanofibers on burn wound healing in a rat model. Two formulations of chitosan nanofibers were prepared through electrospinning. The formulations were then incorporated with different amounts of norfloxacin and underwent surface modifications with 2-formylphenylboronic acid.

Accurate Multiplex qPCR Detection of Epstein-Barr Virus/Cytomegalovirus/BK Virus in Kidney Transplant Patients: Pilot Study.

Chronic kidney disease is a really important heath issue, and transplantation is an intervention that can greatly increase patient quality of life and survival. The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the BK virus, CMV, and EBV in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs); to assess the prevalence of infections; and to test if our detection method would be feasible for use in follow-ups with KTRs. A total of 157 KTRs registered at the Clinical Hospital "Dr.

Novel Quaternary Ammonium Derivatives Based on Apple Pectin.

New quaternary ammonium derivatives (quats) based on apple pectin (PA) were synthesized by the chemical modification of native polysaccharides with various quaternization mixtures containing epichlorohydrin (ECH) and a tertiary amine. Pectin derivatives (QPAs) were studied by elemental analysis, conductometric titration, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and C nuclear magnetic resonance (C NMR). Viscosity measurements enabled the evaluation of the viscosity average molar mass (M) for the unmodified polysaccharide, as well as its intrinsic viscosity ([η]) value.

Combating Bacterial Resistance by Polymers and Antibiotic Composites.

(1) Background: Since the discovery of antibiotics in the first half of the 20th century, humans have abused this privilege, giving rise to antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Recent research has brought to light the use of antimicrobial peptides in polymers, hydrogels, and nanoparticles (NPs) as a newer and safer alternative to traditional antibiotics. (2) Methods: This review article is a synthesis of the scientific works published in the last 15 years, focusing on the synthesis of polymers with proven antimicrobial properties.

Obesity, Osteoarthritis, and Myokines: Balancing Weight Management Strategies, Myokine Regulation, and Muscle Health.

Obesity and osteoarthritis (OA) are increasingly prevalent conditions that are intricately linked, with each exacerbating the other's pathogenesis and worsening patient outcomes. This review explores the dual impact of obesity on OA, highlighting the role of excessive weight in aggravating joint degeneration and the limitations OA imposes on physical activity, which further perpetuates obesity. The role of muscle tissue, particularly the release of myokines during physical activity, is examined in the context of OA and obesity.

Bladder Outlet Obstruction Due to Recurrent Complete Labial Fusion in Postmenopausal Woman-Case Report.

Background: Labial fusion is a rare condition typically observed in prepubescent girls, but it can also occur in postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency.

Methods: Our case report presents a unique instance of recurrent complete labial fusion causing bladder outlet obstruction in a postmenopausal woman.

Results: The 84-year-old patient presented with dysuria and intermittent urine leakage.

Rare Clinical Manifestation of Vasculitis.

Background: Antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis usually affects small blood vessels and is characterized by the presence of circulating autoantibodies (c-ANCA or p-ANCA). The risk of cardiovascular events is threefold higher compared to general population, and cardiac manifestations include myocarditis, pericarditis, valvulitis, aortitis, or coronary arteritis. Coronary involvement is very rare, but it is a potentially life-threatening manifestation.

Prognostic and Predictive Determinants of Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health burden, necessitating a thorough understanding of prognostic and predictive factors to enhance patient outcomes. This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate prognostic and predictive determinants in CRC, encompassing both traditional and emerging biomarkers. A systematic search of major electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published from 1995 up to 2024.

UTILITY OF THE RATIO BETWEEN THE SIZE OF THE RIGHT ATRIUM AND THE RIGHT VENTRICLE AT END-SYSTOLE TO DIAGNOSE ATRIAL SECONDARY TRICUSPID REGURGITATION.

Background: In the multiparametric framework for diagnosing atrial secondary tricuspid regurgitation (A-STR), an end-systolic (ES) right atrial (RA) to right ventricular (RV) volume or area ratio ≥1.5 supports the diagnosis of A-STR over the ventricular STR phenotype (V-STR). However, this threshold value has never been tested.

Hyperspectral imaging reveals that sapropelic mud therapy may improve local tissue oxygenation in elderly.

Sapropelic muds have been used for centuries to treat various illnesses, but their effects and mechanisms are still under research. In this study the effects of Techirghiol sapropelic mud on tissue oxygenation in elderly patients diagnosed with neuromuscular disorders were investigated using spatial and spectral information provided by hyperspectral imaging technique. A group of 38 elderly patients with neuromuscular disorders for which they received mud therapy was studied.

Foreign Accent Syndrome: insights from Neuroimaging and Pathophysiological mechanisms.

Foreign Accent Syndrome (FAS) is a rare and complex speech disorder characterized by the sudden emergence of a foreign accent, typically following neurological events such as strokes, traumatic brain injuries, or neurodegenerative diseases. This comprehensive review explores the pathophysiology, neuroimaging findings, and prevalence of FAS. Neuroimaging studies, including MRI and fMRI, reveal significant brain reorganization predominantly in the left hemisphere, involving regions such as the superior temporal gyrus and medial frontal structures.

The Mental Burden of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Post-pandemic View From a Romanian Sample.

Background: The enduring psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to affect individuals long after the immediate health concerns have subsided. This research aims to identify specific groups within the Romanian population who are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges that can interfere with everyday life and may lead to more serious mental health disorders.

Methods: Conducted as a cross-sectional survey, this study assessed the severity of psychological distress using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) questionnaire in relation to COVID-19-related information and socio-demographic data to investigate the factors associated with psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania.