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Introduction. Despite the high efficacy of direct acting antivirals (DAAs) in curing chronic HCV infection, there is a concern regarding a more aggressive phenotype of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after DAA treatment. Although there are many clinical cohort studies that have evaluated the incidence and recurrence of HCC in these patients, data on the tumor characteristics of HCC after DAAs are not sufficient to establish a clear conclusion. A promising index was recently developed for the evaluation of HCC aggressiveness (AGI) which comprises 4 tumor-related parameters: maximum tumor diameter (MTD), number of tumor nodules, portal vein thrombosis (PVT) and serum AFP levels. Aim. We aimed to investigate the usefulness of AGI in assessing the pattern of HCV-related HCC after DAAs and the predictive value in survival. Material&methods. We carried out a retrospective comparative observational study in which we included patients treated with DAAs for HCV infection and diagnosed with HCC in the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology from Iași, Romania, between January 1st, 2017 and December 31, 2019. Patients were matched based on age and sex with a historic cohort consisting of patients with HCV-related HCC without DAA therapy. Based on AGI, patients were divided into three aggressiveness classes: class A (low aggressiveness), B (intermediate aggressiveness) and C (high aggressiveness). Results. Among the 124 patients with chronic HCV infection diagnosed with HCC, 66 (53.2%) patients were males and 58 (46.8%) were female, with a mean age of 62.38 ± 9.88 years. According to DAAtreated and DAA-naive status, patients were divided into 2 groups: the DAA group included 30 treated patients and the non-DAA group included 94 DAAnaive patients. In the DAA group, the frequency of single HCC was much higher (73.3%) than in naïve patients (53.2%) (p = 0.052), as well as smaller tumor sizes (41.07 ± 18.116mm vs. 61.79 ± 34.477mm, p=0.001) and lower rates of malignant PVT (20% vs. 36%, p = 0.146). According to AGI, class B was the most frequently observed (42.6%) in DAA-naïve patients, followed by class A (31.9%) and class C (25.5%), whilst in DAA-treated patients the most frequent was class A (46.7%), closely followed by class B (40.0%), and class C in 13.3% of cases. The 3-year survival probability for AGI class A vs. B vs. C was 66.9% vs 40.2% vs 8.4%; p=0.001, from the time of diagnosis by Kaplan-Meier plot. There was a significantly higher survival rate in the DAA group compared to DAA-naïve patients (75.3% vs. 52.4%, p = 0.008). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is usually associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The limited number of NAFLD treatment options is well known. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved to treat T2DM, is crucial for obtaining a healthy weight. Additionally, may constitute a cutting-edge therapy option for T2DM patients with NAFLD. In this study, liver steatosis and fibrosis in T2DM patients are measured using vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Material and Methods. Fifty-seven consecutive patients with T2DM and NAFLD receiving oral semaglutide were enrolled from September 2022 to February 2023 and evaluated by VCTE with CAP. Clinical and analytical data for every subject were recorded. Oral semaglutide was initiated at a dose of 3 mg once daily and subsequently increased to 7 mg at 4 weeks, and 14 mg at 8 weeks in accordance with the diabetologist's recommendations. Results. VCTE analysis showed that 40 diabetic people (70.2%) had significantly lower CAP levels after 24 weeks compared to baseline. Only 14 (24.5%) diabetic patients experienced a significant decrease in liver fibrosis. Regarding body mass index (BMI), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), have improved significantly compared to the baseline (mean BMI 28.72±5.43 kg/m2 to 25.67 ±6.11 kg/m2, mean AST 58.17 ± 16.33 IU/L to 34.54 ± 13.8 IU/L, mean ALT 63.31 ± 12.66 IU/L to 39.17 ± 14.3 IU/L). The mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) value reduced significantly from baseline to 24 weeks (from 8.9% to 7.4%). A significant correlation existed between changes in CAP values and fasting plasma glucose (p=0.31, p=0.52), as well as AST (p=0.188, p=0.48), and BMI (p=0.274, p=0.44). Nausea and diarrhea were the most often reported side effects. Conclusion. In individuals with T2DM with NAFLD, oral semaglutide therapy has improved glycemic control, liver enzymes, body weight, and liver steatosis. These findings suggest that semaglutide may be useful in the treatment of NAFLD patients, therefore more studies concerning liver fibrosis are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. In recent decades, alcohol consumption, as part of an unhealthy lifestyle, which has been on the rise in many parts of the world, is a key factor that explains the constant upward trend of mortality associated with this etiology. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of liver fibrosis in the asymptomatic alcohol-consuming population. Objectives. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the relationship between advanced liver fibrosis measured by transient elastography, laboratory parameters, and the amount of alcohol consumed depending on non-modifiable risk factors such as age and gender. Material and method. Between January 2022 and December 2022, we examined patients with day hospitalization in the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Iasi, without liver history, who admitted a moderate or high consumption (women <7 versus >7 drinks/week; men <14 versus >14 drinks/week) for at least one year. The classification of the fibrosis stage by transient elastography was adjusted according to transaminase values. The results were analyzed by univariate analysis and logistic regression to establish models of prediction. Results: The study included 689 patients with an average age of 49.32±14.31 years, a proportion of 63.7% represented by men. Advanced fibrosis (F3) was detected in 19.30% of the examined patients, predominantly in men (14.1%) and patients over 55 years old (12.5%). Excessive alcohol consumption is associated 2 times more with advanced fibrosis in women (OR=5.08; CI 95%: 3.45-9.50) and the group under 40 years old (OR=6.29; CI 95%: 1.67-9.43) compared to men (OR=2.27; CI 95%: 1.76-3.81) respectively patients over 55 years old (OR=3.21; CI 95%: 2.28-4.45) (p<0.05). Using logistic regression, it was demonstrated that there was a strong correlation between advanced fibrosis, excessive alcohol consumption, low serum albumin level and the reduction of triglycerides in men (R2 Nagelkerke = 0.854; p<0.001) supplemented with the reduction of cholesterol in the age group 40-55 years (R2 Nagelkerke = 0.785; p<0.001), respectively of ferritin in those over 55 years old (R2 Nagelkerke = 0.804; p<0.001). The association of excessive alcohol consumption, age, low levels of albumin, LDL-cholesterol and C-reactive protein generated a significant predictive model (R2 Nagelkerke = 0.784; p<0.001) for female patients. Conclusion. Screening using transient elastography represents an approach that could provide early diagnosis of advanced liver fibrosis in an asymptomatic population, with the possibility to prevent the evolution of ALD and the development of complications of cirrhosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: The burnout syndrome (BOS) is commonly seen in healthcare professionals, particularly in physicians who are exposed to a high level of stress at work and has a negative impact on the medical activity. Physicians with BOS manifest a negative attitude, a reduction in compassion at work, and suboptimal patient care experiences. These all can lead to absenteeism, poor performance and more frequent medical errors. We aimed to assess the level of BOS in a tertiary gastroenterology university center in Romania. Methods: This observational study involved 40 physicians from a tertiary gastroenterology university center. An online questionnaire assessed the presence of BOS using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Results: A total of 40 physicians responded to the questionnaire. The prevalence of overall BOS of 87.5%. In terms of high burnout, 15 doctors (37.5%) had emotional exhaustion, 10 doctors (25%) had depersonalization, and 30 doctors (80%) scored low for personal achievement. Men presented more frequently emotional exhaustion and women lower personal achievement scores, but there was no significant statistical difference. No significant relationship was found between marital status or the number of children and BOS. We identified multiple risk factors associated to BOS, the most important one being strict internal regulations. Conclusions: Physicians presented an increased risk for BOS. The high rate of BOS among physicians found in our study requires careful attention. Further studies aiming to identify other factors that contribute to BOS and to identify measures to combat this syndrome are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. A frequent problem in daily practice that gastroenterologists have to confront with is Helicobacter pylori infection. The stomach is where H. pylori infection naturally occurs, this bacterium being the cause of pathologies such as gastritis, peptic ulcer, MALT lymphoma and stomach cancer. Additionally, there is proof connecting the bacteria to a number of extra-gastric pathologies. Case report. We report the case of a 55 year old patient from a rural area, with no significant heredocollateral antecedents, with a history of cardiovascular pathology (Hypertension and Chronic Coronary Syndrome) investigated for digestive bleeding (intermitent hematochezia), important physical astenia, loss of appetite, diffuse abdominal pain and weight loss (5 kg/one month). Clinical investigation reveals: good general condition, pale teguments and mucous membranes, koilonychia, tachycardia (115 bpm), decreased left-based vesicular murmur. Laboratory examinations reveal hipochromic microcyte anemia, negative viral and autoimmunity markers, normal kidney function, normal tumor markers, except increased carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) (9,2 ng/ml). An upper digestive endoscopy is being performed, which reveals anthral gastritis, a spastic pylorus and a congestive bulb with a 1,5 cm diameter ulcer located on the anterior wall, Forrest III. Due to its position and difficulty to reach, no biopsy for H. pylori was taken from the ulcer, however, the IgG H. pylori antibodies and fecal antigen were positive, which determined the initiation of treatment in order to eradicate the infection. Colonoscopy shows an isolated ulcerated lesion, easily bleeding when touched with the colonoscope, but with no active bleeding focus, located in the right colon. Pathology of the biopsy material was suggestive for adenocarcinoma, which determined the patient's redirection to the surgery clinic for the surgical treatment to be performed. Discussion. The particularity of the case is the association of a duodenal ulcer H. pylori positive with right colon neoplasm, but without any other declared risk factors, H. pylori being a recognized class of human carcinogens and there are numerous studies in literature that have looked into the connection between H. pylori infection and colorectal cancer. Conclusion. Finding out how this organism plays a role in various pathologies can be aided by eradicating this infection and reevaluating individuals who have recovered from it. It is yet unclear what the underline pathophysiology of this association is, so more fundamental research in this area is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Metabolic syndrome (MS) patients are at increased risk for severe liver fibrosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. However, there aren't any recommendations until this moment for screening MS patients. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic precision of non-invasive tests in identifying advanced liver fibrosis (F3) and cirrhosis (F4) in MS patients using vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) as a standard quantification method. Materials and Methods. Between September 2022 to March 2023, we prospectively enrolled MS patients at the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Institute Iasi who had undergone evaluation using noninvasive tests like the aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI) score, fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index, and NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS). When compared to liver stiffness measures (LSM), we assessed the specificity, sensitivity, negative predictive value (NPV), and positive predictive value (PPV) for each of these indicators in the identification of at least advanced liver fibrosis (=F3). Results. Of the 116 MS patients included in this study, who had a mean BMI of 27.82±4.62 kg/m2 and at least three metabolic conditions, 69 individuals (59.5%) were females. Using a cut-off of 9.7 kPa, 35 (30.2%) patients had at least advanced fibrosis (=F3) according to LSM measurements. VCTE examinations present a higher correlation with the FIB-4 index (r=0.566), NFS (r=0.585), and APRI score (r=0.624) (p< 0.001). The NPV for the FIB-4 index was the highest (90.38%), followed by the NPV for the NFS score (87.84%). The main result of our research showed that all the biomarkers had reasonably high NPV (>85%) and accuracy (>83%) for predicting advanced liver fibrosis, with moderate specificity (80%) and PPV (75%). Conclusion. To prevent progressive fibrosis in MS patients, the FIB-4 index and NFS score seem to be the most suitable surrogate VCTE biomarkers. It may be necessary to take action and further evaluation of liver fibrosis in a tertiary care center for populations at risk after these non-invasive and affordable screening tests are used in primary care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: The burnout syndrome (BOS) is commonly seen in healthcare professionals, particularly in physicians who are exposed to a high level of stress at work and has a negative impact on the medical activity. Physicians with BOS manifest a negative attitude, a reduction in compassion at work, and suboptimal patient care experiences. These all can lead to absenteeism, poor performance and more frequent medical errors. We aimed to assess the level of BOS in a tertiary gastroenterology university center in Romania. Methods: This observational study involved 40 physicians from a tertiary gastroenterology university center. An online questionnaire assessed the presence of BOS using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Results: A total of 40 physicians responded to the questionnaire. The prevalence of overall BOS of 87.5%. In terms of high burnout, 15 doctors (37.5%) had emotional exhaustion, 10 doctors (25%) had depersonalization, and 30 doctors (80%) scored low for personal achievement. Men presented more frequently emotional exhaustion and women lower personal achievement scores, but there was no significant statistical difference. No significant relationship was found between marital status or the number of children and BOS. We identified multiple risk factors associated to BOS, the most important one being strict internal regulations. Conclusions: Physicians presented an increased risk for BOS. The high rate of BOS among physicians found in our study requires careful attention. Further studies aiming to identify other factors that contribute to BOS and to identify measures to combat this syndrome are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Gastric duplication cysts (GDCs) are rare congenital anomalies that are characterized by the presence of cystic structures within the gastric wall. The diagnostic is challenging as these lesions often present clinical as well as radiological findings common with other gastric lesions. In this report, we present a case of GDC in a young patient presenting for recurrent epigastric pain. Case presentation. A 25-year-old woman presented for recurrent epigastric pain. An upper digestive endoscopy was performed showing a 2 cm submucosal lesion located in the body of the stomach. Subsequently, an endoscopic ultrasound was performed, thus a well-defined cystic lesion was identified. The lesion presented all layers of the gastric wall; therefore, a gastric duplication cyst was suspected. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) was considered but refused by the patient. For further characterization of the lesion, a magnetic resonance investigation (MRI) of the abdomen was carried out. The result confirmed the presence of a lobulate cyst of 18 mm diameter without apparent communication with the gastric lumen. Surgical treatment was discussed with the patient but follow-up was agreed upon. Discussion. GDCs are rare entities, as only 2-8% of digestive tract duplications are found in the stomach. Although they can be symptomatic, most often these lesions are found during examinations performed for other indications. EUS is essential for the characterization of gastric submucosal lesions as it allows the differentiation between cystic and noncystic lesions and it indicates the layer of origin of the lesion. Moreover, FNA can be performed thus aiding in the final diagnostic. In our case, the combination between EUS and MRI played a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of the GDC. EUS allowed the rapid characterization of the lesion and MRI offered detailed anatomical information as well as the relation to adjacent structures without the need for ionizing radiation. Although most patients receive surgical or endoscopic treatment, follow-up is possible, especially in the setting of small GDCs. Conclusion. This case underlines the importance of EUS and MRI in the evaluation of gastric submucosal tumors and for the identification of rare lesions such as GDCs. Both techniques present good accuracy in the characterization of these lesions and allow for a timely diagnosis, preventing the need for more invasive procedures and allowing for subsequent management decisions to be taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are caused by a dysregulated immune response in the hosts, favored by genetic susceptibility. In addition to symptoms related to the digestive tract, about 40% of patients with IBD also experience extraintestinal manifestations. Although, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been frequently associated with IBDs, the relationship between these two pathologies remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of NAFLD among IBD patients, as well as the factors that connect these two conditions. Material and methods. From January 2022 to November 2022, consecutive IBD patients were enrolled from a tertiary care center hospital in Iasi. Patients' demographic information, clinical characteristics including blood pressure, biological parameters, and anthropometric measurements were collected. Following informed consent, participants underwent a fibroscan evaluation for liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). Results. 93 patients with IBD were enrolled (65,3% men, 55,6% with ulcerative colitis). 45 (48,3%) of them were diagnosed with NAFLD, with a mean CAP score of 283 ± 33.4 vs. 215 ± 23.7 in patients with IBD only. Regarding liver fibrosis, mean LSM value in the NAFLD group was 6.8 ± 1.9 kPa vs. 5.7 ± 2.3 kPa in the non-NALFD group. Subjects with NAFLD exhibited higher body mass indexes than those with IBD only (26.2 vs. 33.1, p<0.05). In addition, the prevalence of diabetes was much greater among this group (27.5% vs. 0%; p=0.0001), as was the prevalence of elevated HbA1c levels in the absence of a diabetes diagnosis (14% vs. 7.35%; p=0.23). They also had a non-significantly higher mean systolic blood pressure and greater incidences of hypertension. Compared to those without NAFLD, the NAFLD cohort had higher rates of diagnosed hypercholesterolaemia, were older with a higher mean disease duration and had a higher nonsignificant level of triglycerides. The 10-year risk of myocardial infarction or death estimated by the Framingham risk scores for hard coronary heart disease was higher in the NAFLD group (2.32% vs. 4.27%, p=0.0024). Conclusions. NAFLD is a multifaceted condition that is becoming more common in IBD patients. Although the present evidences in the literature suggest a small risk for the advance of liver fibrosis, the cardiovascular risk seems to be of a greater interest. Considering the above data, patients with IBD should be evaluated with a multidisciplinary approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and obesity are independently related to an increased risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), the primary cause of mortality in NAFLD patients. Even though many subjects with NAFLD are normal weight, it still remains uncertain whether their ASCVD risk is of major importance. The aim of this study is to assess and compare the ASCVD risk between lean and obese patients with NAFLD. Methods. Normal weight and obese patients were evaluated between January 2020 and February 2023 and their data was analyzed. NAFLD was diagnosed by vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines was used to evaluate the ASCVD risk. Results. In the obese group, 104 (63.8%) patients were diagnosed with NAFLD, compared to 32 (12.3%) in the lean population. In comparison to those with obese NAFLD, subjects with lean NAFLD had significantly higher ASCVD scores (mean 15.3% vs 22.7%, p<0.001). Moreover, subjects with lean NAFLD and significant liver fibrosis had a higher risk of ASCVD events, compared to their obese counterparts (OR, 2.51 vs 1.95, p=0.034). Regarding the presence of the components of the metabolic syndrome, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus was higher the obese group, while changes in the lipid profile and higher systolic blood pressure were more frequently found in lean subjects. Conclusions: Subjects with lean NAFLD had an ASCVD score that were significantly higher than those with obese NAFLD. In both study groups, the presence of significant liver fibrosis was an essential risk factor associated with an ASCVD event, but the effects were more pronounced in lean individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Climate change and its impact on the environment are matters of high concern. Thus, recent European recommendations for environmental sustainability in endoscopy have been published. We aimed to assess the real-life perception of those recommendations as well as the level of implementation in a tertiary-care center in North-Eastern Romania. Methods. We included medical personnel from a tertiary-care center in North-Eastern Romania, namely senior and junior gastroenterologists, residents, and endoscopy nurses. An online survey was developed, that included the statements from the latest British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG), Joint Accreditation Group (JAG), and Centre for Sustainable Health (CSH) joint consensus on practical measures for environmental sustainability. Participants were asked to provide their opinion on the statements choosing their position from strong disagreement, disagreement, agreement, strong agreement, and no opinion. The results were collected confidentially and analyzed. Results. There were 29 participants, aged 36.9 ± 8.17 years old, mostly women (42.5%). Among the respondents 11 were senior gastroenterologists, 6 were junior gastroenterologists, 8 were residents, and 4 were endoscopy nurses. Most participants agreed that endoscopy was an important source of waste (65.5%) and that measures are needed to reduce the negative impact of endoscopy on the environment (62%). Concerning the need for strict adherence to professional guidelines when considering the indication for endoscopy 44.8% of the respondents strongly agreed while 34.5% agreed. Sustainable alternatives to conventional diagnostic endoscopy were favored however by only 48% of the respondents while 27.6% strongly disagreed. Trainee involvement based on methods including simulation and online image libraries was mostly disagreed upon (51.7%). All participants agreed that both upper and lower digestive endoscopies should be grouped on the same day and 86.2% of the respondents considered that the use of single-use endoscopes should be restricted to select indications. More than 50% of the participants strongly agreed on the need for sustainability in new decontamination units. Most participants agreed that the judicious use of sterile water is necessary to reduce the impact on the environment as well as the minimization of histopathology use. With one exception, all respondents agreed that endoscopy accessories should be carefully considered and planned pre-procedure to minimize waste. Over 50 % of the respondents strongly agreed that the judicious use of NO as well as paperless protocol use and optimization of PPE should be implemented. Over 60% agreed that, when possible, personnel should be able to work from home. However, most participants did not agree with the proposed lowflow devices on water taps. The use of renewable energy sources as well as energy-efficient lighting of the endoscopy unit was agreed upon by most participants as well as efficient waste management. All participants agreed that heating, ventilation, and air conditioning would be turned off when endoscopy rooms were not in use. Over 70% agreed that patients should bring their cups to the hospital. More than 80% considered that remote consultation could be the default means of providing post-endoscopy follow-up. However, only 25% considered that alternative investigations would eventually replace endoscopy. Concerning the implementation of these measures, only 34% agreed that they were already implemented in Romania, while over 50% considered that they could be implemented in our country. Conclusions. All in all, most of the proposed measures for environmental sustainability in endoscopy were agreed upon by the participants. There was however disagreement concerning the replacement of endoscopy by alternative investigations as well as the use of methods other than endoscopy for trainees to reduce the number of procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Burnout syndrome is a commonly seen in healthcare professionals, particularly in physicians who are exposed to a high level of stress at work and has a negative impact on the medical activity. The physicians who had have high burnout levels have been shown to commit more medical errors. Aim: To assess the level of the burnout syndrome in a tertiary university centre of gastroenterology in Romania. Methods. This observational study involved physicians from a tertiary gastroenterology university centre. An online questionnaire assessed the presence of burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Results. A total of 64 physicians responded to the questionnaire. In terms of high burnout, 11 doctors (17.18%) had emotional exhaustion, 13 doctors (20.3%) had depersonalization, and 58 doctors (90.62%) scored low for personal achievement. There were statistically significant correlations between the personal accomplishment and exhausting scores and between the personal accomplishment and depersonalization scores, respectively (P=0.007, and P<0.001, respectively). Conclusion. Physicians present an increased risk for burnout relative to workers in other fields. The high rate of burnout among physicians found by our study requires careful attention. Further studies aiming to identify other factors that contribute to burnout and as well as measures to combat burnout are necessary. Professional societies should get involved in studying the factors that generate burnout among physicians as well as to find solutions to reduce them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: The sofosbuvir (SOF) / velpatasvir (VEL) / voxilaprevir (VOX) combination has been evaluated in more than 800 patients enrolled in phase II and phase III studies, where it demonstrated excellent safety and efficacy, achieving overall sustained viral response (SVR) rates of more than 95%. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of SOF/VEL/VOX in a real-world study, including patients previously treated for genotype 1b hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection that did not obtain a sustained viral response with previous direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) therapy. Methods: In Romania, through a nationwide government-funded program in 2019-2020, 213 patients with chronic hepatitis C non-responders to previous DAAs therapy, received treatment with SOF/VEL/VOX 400/100/100 mg/day for 12 weeks. We performed a retrospective longitudinal study that included 143 individuals who were treated in Bucharest, Iași, Craiova and Constanța clinics, all with genotype 1b HCV infection. Efficacy was assessed by the percentage of patients achieving SVR 12 weeks post-treatment (SVR12). Serious adverse events (SAE) were registered. Results: Our cohort comprised 53% males with a median age of 60 years (27÷77); 47% were pre-treated with ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir+dasabuvir ± ribavirin, 40% with ledipasvir/SOF, 13% with elbasvir/grazoprevir. 42% of patients associated co-morbidities, 45% had compensated liver cirrhosis, 2% had treated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 1% had hepatitis B virus co-infection. SVR by intention to treat was reported in 139/143 (97.2%) and per protocol in 141/143 (98.6%). No predictive factors for SVR were identified. Rate of liver decompensation in patients with cirrhosis was 6% and was statistically associated in multivariate analysis with Child-Pugh score (p<0.01) and with severe steatosis (p=0.004). Occurrence of new HCC was reported in 3.6% of all patients with cirrhosis and was associated with poor liver function [higher Child-Pugh score (p=0.001) and low albumin levels (p=0.02)]. Serious adverse events related to therapy were reported in 1/143(0.7%). Conclusions: SOF/VEL/VOX was highly efficient in our population of patients with a 97.2% SVR. Liver decompensation occurred in 6% of cirrhotic patients at SVR, related to hepatic dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Identifying the risk factors for extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) may optimize the therapeutic decision. We aimed to assess the prevalence of EIMs in IBD patients in Romania and to determine the risk factors. Methods: We analyzed 2,626 patients registered in the Romanian IBD Prospect National Registry. We performed a descriptive cross-sectional study to assess the point prevalence of EIMs, calculating global prevalence and analyzing the different types of EIMs and their respective frequencies were carried out. Demographic and clinical risk factors were researched as possible predictors for EIMs development, based on the results of the univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: The overall point prevalence of EIMs was 16.3%. A significantly higher frequency of EIMs in Crohn's disease (CD) was noted in comparison to ulcerative colitis (UC) and IBD unclassified (IBDU) (23.2% vs 11.3% and 16.3%, respectively, p<0.001). The most frequent type of EIM was peripheral arthropathy (8.3%), significantly associated with CD (p<0.001). Univariate analysis highlighted the significant independent common predictive risk factors for EIMs, in both CD and UC patients: female gender, patient's urban area of origin, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, and high level of C-reactive protein (CRP), while significant independent IBD phenotype-related risk factors were ileocolonic location and concomitant involvement of upper gastrointestinal tract for CD, non-smoker status and both moderate and severe disease activity for UC (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis determined that female CD patients with moderate or severe disease activity, with other than isolated ileal disease, and female UC patients with moderate or severe extensive colitis are the most likely to develop EIMs. Conclusions: IBD patients are experiencing EIMs in a large proportion, with higher rates for CD. As EIMs negatively affect patient outcomes, foreseeing the risk by identifying independent and associated predictive factors could be a first step to optimal work-up and treatment [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Digestive bleeding is a challenge in daily practice, being one of the main reasons for addressability in a gastroenterology center, which requires hospitalization and investigations to determine the cause and whose treatment depends on the source of the bleeding. Case report. A 61-year-old patient from a urban area, with associated cardio-vascular pathology, with an initial address in the territory for digestive bleeding (melena), without highlight a source with potential for bleeding at endoscopic examinations, presents for the persistence of stools melenic, dizziness, marked physical asthenia and diffuse abdominal pain. Clinical examination reveals: good general condition, afebrile, teguments and pale mucous membranes, normal heart auscultation, bilateral basal tightened vesicular murmur. Laboratory findings show normochromic normocyte anemia, hyponatremia, important enzymatic cholestasis (increased isolated alkaline phosphatase), negative viral and autoimmunity markers, normal tumor markers, except increased PSA (3160 ng/ml), normal kidney function. Abdominal ultrasound: hyperreflective liver, with normal structure and size, at rest, without other pathological changes. The upper digestive endoscopy does not reveal any source with bleeding potential. Colonoscopy show small diverticula throughout the colic, red blood coming from the level of the small intestine, check with bleeding, no lesions. Because the colonoscopy revealed red blood from the small intestine, the exploration was continued with the investigation of this segment, with the help of the capsule endoscopy, which immediately describes after passing through the ileocecal valve, in the vesicle, a vascular lesion with central ulceration, and in nearby - red blood, with an ulcerated venous angiodysplasia aspect. Treatment of hydroelectrolytic rebalancing and blood transfusion was initiated, the main therapeutic measure being the endoscopic coagulation with argon plasma, with the bleeding stopping. In view of the increased PSA marker, abdominal-pelvic TC was performed, which revealed a tumor formation in the prostate and secondary bone lesions (which explains the increase of AP), the histological result being of prostate acinar adenocarcinoma. The particularity of the case is the overlap of an increased isolated AP that together with the increased PSA, directs the diagnosis to prostate neoplasm with secondary bone lesions. Conclusions. The explorations performed out in the patient presented with digestive bleeding offered the explanation of the symptomatology, together with the modified biological parameters, further investigations being required. The manifestation of the digestive haemorrhage was masked by the colonic diverticulosis and the biological picture of the neoplastic pathology, the difficulty of the diagnosis being determined by the overlapping of the clinico-biological manifestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies and is still one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Laterally spreading colorectal tumors (LSTs) are nonpolypoid neoplastic lesions with a diameter of at least 10 mm, which typically extend laterally rather than vertically along the interior luminal wall. LTSs have recently received special attention due to the significant degree of dysplasia and the diagnostic and therapeutic challenge that it represents for clinical practice. LTSs can reach impressive sizes, most of them larger than 2 cm and the classification into granular and non-granular is an important characteristic for establishing the degree of dysplasia and choosing the appropiate treatment. Case presentation. A 73-year-old patient with significant cardiovascular (cardiac pacemaker) and metabolic diseases (diabetes mellitus type 2 and morbid obesity), without a history of digestive diseases, was admitted to our department for abdominal pain. At admisson, blood tests revealed a non-specific inflammatory syndrome, liver cytolysis, without signs of cholestasis and moderate anemia. Likewise, carcinoembryonic antigen and CA19.9 were elevated. Plain X-ray ruled out pneumoperitoneum or intestinal obstruction. Abdominal ultrasound revealed multiple hepatic metastases with the largest measuring approximately 75 mm. Upper digestive endoscopy was performed identifying a deep duodenal ulceration suggestive of possible extrinsic invasion, but with a histopathological result of benign ulceration, without tumoral elements. A computed tomography was then performed with exclusion of a pancreatic neoplasia. We decided to perform a colonoscopy that revealed a pseudodepressed flat type LST which was about 2 cm in diameter, located at about 30 cm from the anal verge with slight central depression (0-IIa+IIc). Histopathology report showed a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma. Discussion. The initial suspicion of diagnosis was neoplasm of pancreas with liver metastases, with a malignant duodenal invasion, diagnosis that was infirmed by the anatomopathological result that obiectivated the benign etiology of the ulcer. The final diagnosis was colonic adenocarcinoma with hepatic metastases. The patient was addressed to Regional Institute of Oncology for oncological treatment. Conclusion. This case offers a broad and multidirectional diagnostic perspective in a patient without significant symptoms and with multiple comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Suspected small-bowel bleeding may be overt or occult. In the absence of clinically obvious hemorrhagic manifestations, the anemic syndrome secondary to chronic occult loss is often the alarm signal. We present the case of a patient with severe iron deficiency anemia, diagnosed by small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) with hemorrhagic ileal polyp, with further succesfull surgical solution. Clinical presentation. 74-year-old male patient with significant associated cardiovascular diseases - arterial hypertension, permanent atrial fibrillation, heart failure NYHA class III, undergoing oral anticoagulant therapy. The worsening of the cardiac symptoms lead to the detection of a severe iron deficiency anemia (Hb 6.4/dL), with no overt bleeding. Consequently, the exploration of the gastrointestinal tract was decided. After negative upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, and abdominal CT examination, SBCE was performed. An irregular sessile protruding lesion, developped on less than a quarter of the circumference, with active bleeding, in the distal third of the small intestine, was seen. Consequently, the surgeon performed a cuneiform ileal resection, with anatomo-pathological result of ulcerated hyperplastic polyp. The immediate and long-term postoperative evolution was favorable, both clinically and biologically, with the amelioration and then remission of the anemia. Conclusions. Infrequent benign tumors, with extremely rare sporadic occurrence, ileal hyperplastic polyps may present with occult hemorrhage as complication, probably having as risk factor the associated anticoagulant treatment, with occult hemorrhage, responsible for severe secondary iron deficiency anemic syndrome. Applying the investigational algorithm for unexplained iron deficiency anemia allows the etiological diagnosis and the application of the curative therapeutic intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There is no unique diagnostic test for Crohn's disease, and the diagnosis of isolated small bowel Crohn's disease (SBCD) is even more challenging, due to non-patognomonic clinical picture and low availability of accurate exploration methods. Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) revolutionized the approach of middle gastrointestinal tract, becoming the first investigation tool when small bowel pathology is suspected. Objective of the study. The aim of our study was to assess the value of SBCE in diagnosing isolated SBCD. Materials and Methods. We retrospectively studied the patients undergoing SBCE for suspected isolated SBCD, in a six-year period, including in our analysis only the patients with a minimum one-year follow-up period. We calculated the diagnostic yield of SBCE, defined as number of capsule endoscopy exams whith positive findings, and we also assessed its yearly variation in time over the six-year period. Subsequently, analyzing follow-up data, positive and negative predictive values were assessed. Results. 78 patients were investigated by SBCE for suspected isolated SBCD. SBCE showed lesions compatible with the diagnosis of SBCD in 49 patients, corresponding to a specific diagnostic yield of 62.8%, while for the remaining 29 patients (37.2%), no CD lesions were found. Following additional investigations, three of the 49 patients initially thought as having isolated SBCD were reclassified as SB lymphoma, eosinophilic gastroenteritis and intestinal tuberculosis, respectively, corresponding to a positive predictive value of 93.8%. During followup, none of the 29 patients with negative SBCE was diagnosed with CD, corresponding to a negative predictive value of 100%. We found a progressively increase of the diagnostic yield over time (from 42.6% in the first year to 70.2% in the last year of the analyzed period), corresponding the most probably to the refinement of the indication. Conclusions. Despite a relatively low diagnostic yield, SBCE has a good positive predictive value for isolated SBCD. However, as CE is a purely visual technique with no capability of taking biopsies, final diagnosis needs confirmation by additional investigations. Nevertheless, SBCE has a 100% negative predictive value, being an excellent tool for rulling out isolated SBCD. Refinement of the indication could ensure a better diagostic yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is currently the most severe form of liver disease consisting of malignant processes following fibrotic and cirrhotic damage. Despite there are several validated scores for assessing the overall risk to develop HCC in patients diagnosed with chronic liver diseases, most of these are designed for patients with viral hepatitis B and C and subsequently rely on specific measurements, such as viral load or viral profiling. PAGE-B is commonly used to predict HCC risk in patients with viral hepatitis B. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the applicability of PAGE-B in different liver diseases predisposing to HCC. On a series of 104 consecutive patients, PAGE-B was calculated according to standard guidelines. Based on the collected data, the applicability of PAGE-B was evaluated in several liver pathologies predisposing to HCC, such as alcoholic liver disease, chronic viral hepatitis C, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The mean age of the patients was 67,65 ± 1,15 years, while the sex distribution was 57,28 % males to 42,72 % females. The selected cohort consisted of 11 patients with alcoholic liver disease (10,57 %), 54 patients with chronic viral hepatitis C (51,92 %), and 39 patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (37,5 %). We found that the patients with alcoholic liver disease patients scored highest for PAGE-B (20,09 ± 0,45), while non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients score lowest (17,89 ± 0,47), significantly different from one another (p = 0,021). In conclusion, our results suggested that PAGE-B could be useful in evaluating HCC risk in chronic liver diseases, but further studies are needed to find a suitable scoring system to predict the overall risk to develop HCC in patients that are diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The overall burden of B / D and C viral hepatitis remains substantial, despite the major advances in the prevention and treatment of patients in recent years, due to comorbidities and complications associated with liver disease. In this context, the national screening program LIVE (RO) 2 aims to further assess all patients identified as positive for one of the hepatitis B / D / C viruses. Objectives. The study aimed to identify fortuitous pathologies discovered in patients with chronic viral B / D / C infection diagnosed in the LIVE (RO) screening program 2. Materials and Methods. We conducted a prospective study that included people from vulnerable groups (poor, uninsured, rural people, people in foster care, homeless, Roma population, people with disabilities, and suffering from alcohol or drug addiction) in different areas of North-Eastern Romania, between July 2021 - December 2022, during the national screening program LIVE (RO) 2-EAST. We also investigated the presence of newly discovered conditions in patients who tested positive and directed to the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Iasi for the staging of liver disease and the establishment of antiviral treatment. Results. The study group included 1176 patients, of which 422 men (35.8%) and 754 women (64.1%), aged between 35 and 83 years, with a mean age of 56.32 years. The predominant source of origin was rural (73.1%). Of the patients with positive RDTs, 635 (53.9%) patients were detected with HBsAg, 521 (44.3%) patients with anti-HCV antibodies, and 20 (1.7%) patients with anti-HVD antibodies. Of these, 215 patients (18.2%) were diagnosed with a new pathology associated with B / D / C viral infection. The most common pathologies discovered incidentally were liver cirrhosis (94, 43.7%), liver cysts (35, 16.2%), liver hemangiomas (29, 13.4%), gallstones (24, 11.1%), type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (15, 6.9%), uterine fibroids (9, 4.1%), hepatocellular carcinoma (7, 3.2%), choledochal lithiasis (2, 0.9%). In addition, the presence of fortuitous pathologies was higher among patients with HBV infection than in those with HCV infection (65.3% vs. 42.1%, p = 0.012). Among the risk factors associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are chronic alcohol consumption (43%, compared to 19% in the group of patients without HCC), and the association of T2DM in 3 patients (31%, compared to 10% in the group of patients with HCC). Conclusions. Patients with chronic B / D / C viral infection had a high prevalence of incidentally detected comorbidities, which necessitates the need for public health policies in vulnerable groups to promote access to existing health services to reduce the future burden of chronic diseases but also secondary complications of chronic liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Chronic viral hepatitis B/D and C can be complicated by comorbid conditions that may influence treatment eligibility and outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of the most common comorbidities in patients diagnosed with chronic viral B/D and C infection using rapid diagnostic tests (TDR). Materials and Methods. Between July 2021 and December 2022, we performed prospective screening for chronic viral B/D and C infection in people in vulnerable groups (poor, uninsured, rural people, people in foster care, people without shelter, Roma people, people with disabilities, people suffering from alcohol and drug addiction) from different areas of North-Eastern Romania, during the national program for the elimination of viral hepatitis LIVE(RO) 2-EST using TDRs for hepatitis B virus (Wama Immuno-Rapid HBV®) and hepatitis C virus (Wama Immuno-Rapid HCV®). We also investigated the presence of comorbid conditions in patients tested positive and presented at the Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Iasi for the staging of liver disease and the establishment of antiviral treatment. Results. Our study included 1176 patients who came to a tertiary center for the staging of liver disease, of which 422 men (35.8%) and 754 women (64.1%), aged 35 to 83 years, with an average age of 56.32 years. The predominant source of origin was rural (73.1%). Of the patients with positive TDR, 635 (53.9%) of patients were detected with HBsAg, 521 (44.3%) of patients with anti-HCV antibodies, and 20 (1.7%) of patients with anti-HVD antibodies. Of these, 646 patients (54.9%) had at least one comorbid condition. The most common comorbidities were cardiovascular disease (21.5%), psychiatric disorders (11.5%), type 2 diabetes (8.9%), metabolic disorders (6%), thyroid disorders (5%) and cancer (2%). In addition, the presence of comorbidities was higher among patients with HCV infection than in those with HBV infection (64.9% vs. 48.5%, p = 0.014), while psychiatric disorders were most common in patients with HBV/HVD coinfection (42.3%), most likely due to the Interferon regimen that has been administered in the past to 19 individuals. Conclusions. Patients with chronic viral hepatitis B/D and C had a high prevalence of multiple comorbidities. Effective strategies are needed to manage these comorbid conditions as well as interdisciplinary collaboration to allow greater access to antiviral treatment and to reduce the future burden of advanced liver disease and its manifestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the most important medical-surgical emergencies. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), defined as hemorrhage having its origin above Treitz'angle, is the most frequent type, and is suspected when the patient present with hemethemesis and/or melena. Etiological diagnosis is vital for the patients'prognosis, and it relies mostly on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE). However, endoscopy can show more than one bleeding or potentially bleeding lesion. Aim. The objective of our study was to analyze the frequence of multiple potentially bleeding lesions as seen in emergencies upper gastrointestinal endoscopies. Material and Methods. We performed a retrospective study on patients with acute UGIB presented in the Emergency Department of „St. Spiridon" Clinical County Hospital, investigated by UGIE, in the last six months; epidemiological, clinical and biologic data were recorded, as well as the results of UGIE. Furthermore, correlations between the presence of multiple potentially bleeding lesions and clinical and biological factors were made. Results. 480 patients with suspected acute UGIB were investigated by emergency UGIE. The bleeding source was found in 375 (78%) patients; among them, 278 (58%) patients had one single bleeding lesion, while in 97 (14%) patients more than one potentially bleeding lesion was found. For the remaining 105 (22%) patients, no obvious causal lesion were found, and they were further investigated. The most frequent unique lesions were peptic ulcers and gastro-oesophageal varices, while the most encountered associations were Mallory-Weiss syndrome and peptic ulcer, and gastrooesophageal varices and gastro-duodenal ulcer. The factors correlated with the presence of multiple potentially bleeding lesions were: age, alcohol consumption, the presence of cirrhosis and Charleson comorbidity index. Conclusions. Even if in most cases UGIE is diagnostic for UGIB, there are cases when no lesions are found and also cases with more than one potentially bleeding lesion. Older age, the alcohol consumption, cirrhotic patients and the presence of comorbidities are associated with multiple potentially bleeding lesion. Thorough clinical examination and accurate endoscopic exam are mandatory for the right diagnosis and treatment, to ensure the most favorable patients' outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Specific Baveno VII consensus recommendations are based on the reliability of noninvasive criteria to rull out or rull in clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Aim. We aimed to assess the translation into the real-world clinical practice of the main Baveno VII consensus recommendations. Material and Methods. We launched a brief online survey, and we invited physicians to respond to several questions related to advanced chronic liver disease patients' care (the use of non-invasive criteria to avoid endoscopy when CSPH is rulled out, the prevention of decompensation when CSPH is rulled in, and the type of non-selective beta-blocker). Results. 108 gastroenterologist and hepatologist practitionners answered our survey. According to the type of the medical unit in which they developed their clinical activity, there was an uniform distrubution between municipal, county and universitary hospitals. For clarity and reproducibility, we present the questions and answers as they were originally formulated. Question A. Do you perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for variceal screening to patients with Thrombocyte count <150.000/mmc and liver stiffness measurement < 15 kPa? Answers: 1. Yes: 67 (62%); 2. No: 41 (38%). Question B. Do you initiate non-selective beta-blockers to your patients when liver stifness measurement is more than 25 kPa, for the prevention of the decompensation? Answers: 1. Yes: 99 (85%); 2. No: 9 (15%). Question C. If yes, what NSBB do you prefer? Answer: 1. Carvedilol: 92 (85%); 2. Propranolol: 16 (15%). Conclusions. Baveno VII consensus recommendation regarding avoidance of UGIE in patients with NIT rulling out CSPH is not generally adopted in the clinical practice. The majority of gastroenterologists and hepatologists preffer however performing UGIE, which can be explained by the fear of possibly missing oesophageal varices, and also by the wide acessibility of UGIE in Romania, both in general hospitals, but especially in universitary centers. However, the NSBB (Carvedilol being the most frequently the first choice) are generally recommended by non-invasive criteria, proving the awareness of the practitioners regarding the prevention of decompensation BAVENO VII takeaway message. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Over 71 million people worldwide suffer from chronic hepatitis C, a systemic disease that is currently being viewed as a new cardiometabolic risk factor. Aim. The objective of this study was to compare the lipid profiles of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection before and after viral elimination. Materials and Methods. We conducted a prospective study between October 2017 to January 2020, in a tertiary center, in which we included 132 patients with chronic HCV hepatitis or cirrhosis. All patients received treatment with direct antivirals. During the study we assesed biological data (blood count, TGP, TGO, serum albumin, urea, creatinine, total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol, HDLcholesterol, triglycerides). The study group was followed at the initiation of antiviral treatment, after 3 months after the completion of antiviral treatment and within an average follow-up period of 6 months to 12 months after the previous evaluation. Results. 128 of the 132 patients exhibit a persistent viral response (SVR). The average TC levels for patients who obtained SVR increased from baseline to 177.01 42.2 mg/dl. The discrepancies between the baseline values of the TC and those discovered during SVR and post-SVR surveillance were statistically significant (p 0.05 and p = 0.049, respectively). When compared to the baseline, the average LDL-cholesterol readings at SVR and post-SVR surveillance were higher on average (116.2 35.6 vs 124, 24 34.9 vs 136.72 22.5 mg/dL). The post-SVR examination reveals significant HDL value variability, with lower values discovered compared to the study's second surveillance moment. After viral clearance, the serum triglyceride level had also changed. The mean triglyceride concentrations are lower (128.441.8 mg/dL) at the time of the SVR assessment. In the third evaluations, the mean value is somewhat higher (135.445.2 mg/dL). The differences between the values acquired at the time of SVR and the beginning values were found to be statistically significant (p = 0.008, p 0.05). Conclusion. Our study highlights that HCV eradication does not improve the lipid profile on the short term, and these patients still have an additional cardiovascular risk factor due to high levels of TC, LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. In order to meet the requirements of the WHO, namely - the eradication of viral hepatitis by 2030, UMF "Grigore T. Popa" from Iasi together with ARAS and the Hospital "St. Spiridon" from Iasi, carries out since 2020 the project "LIVE(RO) 2 - Integrated regional program for prevention, early detection (screening), diagnosis and targeting treatment of patients with chronic liver disease secondary to viral infections with liver viruses B/D and C in the North-East and South-East regions". This study aimed to assess the epidemiological characteristics of the vulnerable population in the eastern part of the country diagnosed with chronic B/D and C viral infection. Materials and Methods. Between July 2021 and December 2022, we performed a prospective screening of chronic viral hepatitis B/D and C in vulnerable people in the counties of North-East and South-East of Romania, within the national program LIVE(RO) 2 - EST. Rapid diagnostic tests were used to detect HBs antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies (HCVA): HBV (Wama Immuno-Rapid HBV®) and HCV (Wama Immuno-Rapid HCV®). Rapid test-positive patients were tested for HBV DNA and HCV RNA and those eligible under the national protocol were treated with antivirals. Results. The study included 55593 individuals tested rapidly, of which 2160 (3.8%) patients were tested positive (1120 women, 1040 men, mean age 55.86 ± 6.023 years, predominantly rural background - 76.19%). Of these, 1077 (49.8%) were HBsAg positive, 918 (42.5%) with HCV positive needle, 37 (1.7%) HBV/HCV coinfection and 128 (5.9%) HBV/VHD coinfection. HBV-DNA was performed in 724 (67.3%) individuals, of which 452 (62.5%) subjects > 2,000 children/ml. Also, 518 (54.3%) patients with HCV-positive Ac had detectable HCV RNA, of which 375 (72.3%) received antiviral treatment. Depending on the ethnicity, the prevalence of viral infection was 4.29% in Roma people and 3.23% in Romanian people. Among the vulnerable groups determined by work, inactive people (27.7%), uninsured people (11.2%), unskilled people (1.87%), unemployed people (0.6%) and people working in agriculture (0.59%) were predominantly tested. Among the special vulnerable groups, people with disabilities (3.99%), people addicted to alcohol (2.43%) and people with a minimum income (1.21%) were predominantly tested. Conclusions. The high prevalence of B/D and C viral infection in the vulnerable population tested in the North-East and South-East Region of Romania compared to the rest of the population, indicates the significant viral spread of the infection in these people, a condition that requires further testing and the need for policies public health in vulnerable groups to promote access to existing health services and early initiation of optimal antiviral treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest technological progress provided significant changes in the approach of several areas of daily life, healthcare, and research. In this context, there are many solutions based on artificial intelligence (AI) that were designed to provide assistance in repetitive, ultraprecision, and high-performance data analysis tasks. While the benefits of using AI in Medicine are suggestive, they are shadowed by potential limitations based on the perception of the targeted users due to lack of awareness, mistrust, and human versus machine controversy. Thus, we aimed to find the current opinion of the medical workers and students regarding the modern applications of AI in medical care and research. Using an online specialised platform, we conducted a survey addressed to the members of academic and healthcare community. They were invited to answer specific questions evaluating their knowledge on AI, and their availability to accept and use AI-based applications in daily life and profession. Also, they were challenged to identify advantages and weaknesses of AI-based applications in healthcare and medical research. We found that the responses regarding the use of AI-based solutions in daily life and healthcare suggested several differences in awareness. Also, some of the participants identified several possible sources of inequity in receiving medical care when intelligence-based applications were used in decision making demarche. Similarly, despite that AI-based resources could offer high performance solutions to medical care and research consequent to technology progress, the participants pointed out that the main negative outcome of artificial would be the lack of empathy involved in patients' management. AI-based solutions in medical care could offer significant improvements of the medical act and in biomedical research. However, there are still many limitations that should be addressed when adapting AI resources in Medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]