Search

Biallelic mutations in the gene that encodes the enzyme N-glycanase 1 (NGLY1) cause a rare disease with multi-symptomatic features including developmental delay, intellectual disability, neuropathy, and seizures. NGLY1s activity in human neural cells is currently not well understood. To understand how NGLY1 gene loss leads to the specific phenotypes of NGLY1 deficiency, we employed direct conversion of NGLY1 patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to functional cortical neurons. Transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional studies of iPSC-derived neurons lacking NGLY1 function revealed several major cellular processes that were altered, including protein aggregate-clearing functionality, mitochondrial homeostasis, and synaptic dysfunctions. These phenotypes were rescued by introduction of a functional NGLY1 gene and were observed in iPSC-derived mature neurons but not astrocytes. Finally, laser capture microscopy followed by mass spectrometry provided detailed characterization of the composition of protein aggregates specific to NGLY1-deficient neurons. Future studies will harness this knowledge for therapeutic development.

Although obesity is a frequently formulated diagnosis at all ages, due to the long-term projection of the consequences of this condition in children it is a real public health problem. The etiology of obesity is multiple and its complexity requires a multidisciplinary medical approach from which the psychological component cannot be omitted. Thus, diseases such as diabetes, dyslipidemias, cardiovascular diseases, sleep apnea syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver or neoplasia are encountered with a higher incidence in this category of individuals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the isolation and, consequently, the reduction of access to ways of performing physical exercise increased the balance between caloric intake and caloric consumption resulting in the accumulation of surplus calories in the form of adipose tissue. The purpose of the present work is to emphasize the interest manifested by the medical scientific world regarding obesity in the pediatric population, in the pre-pandemic period, during the pandemic period and one year after its’ end (2018-2023). We performed systematic review of clinical studies on obesity in the pediatric population, including 98 articles published in the PubMed database. The number of studies published during the pandemic period (53) vs the number of studies published ex-pandemic (45), corresponds to a ratio of 1.17:1 in favor of the first. Obesity remains a research topic of major interest in early life, regardless of the coexistence of COVID-19.

Background and Study Aim. The physical demands of the winger position in elite handball require a unique combination of upper body speed and lower body strength. Therefore, identifying the optimal relationship between these two physical characteristics could improve performance for players in this role. This study aims to analyze the relationship between upper body speed capacity and lower body strength in elite handball players specializing in the winger position. Material and Methods. The study included 16 elite handball players specializing in the winger position from various teams in the National Handball League (Liga Zimbrilor). Four of these players were members of the Dinamo Bucharest team. Tests for evaluating the explosive strength of the lower limbs included the Squat Jump (SJ), Counter Movement Jump (CMJ), Counter Movement Jump with Free Arms (CMJb), and the maximum strength test (1RM) in squats. Specific technical training tests included triangular movement, a 30-meter sprint, and long-distance handball throws, focusing on speed and execution technique. Data analysis was conducted using KyPlot 6.0 software. Statistical indicators included median, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and non-parametric Spearman correlation tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results. The results show no statistically significant differences in lower limb strength between high-performance handball players (HPHP) and those specialized in the winger position (PSW) across various jump and squat tests (p > 0.05). The Countermovement Jump (CMJ) test approached statistical significance (p = 0.084), while the CMJ with free arms (CMJb) and squat strength test did not show significant differences (p = 0.231 and p = 0.789, respectively). In the specific fitness tests, no significant differences were observed in the Triangle Movement test (p = 0.826), the 30-meter sprint (p = 0.404), or the handball throw test (p = 0.147). Correlation analysis indicated that squats and CMJb had positive correlations with improved performance in speed and distance tests, while CMJ showed a negative correlation with technical performance in agility tests. Conclusions. The findings suggest that lower limb strength and technical fitness are similar between elite handball players, regardless of specialization. This supports a unified training approach across player roles. However, targeted exercises like squats and CMJb may enhance specific performance aspects. These exercises improve dynamic strength and stability, which can benefit wingers' technical execution and speed.

The prevalence of obesity among children is rising and over the years we can estimate the severity of medical issues at adult age. According to the latest studies and also personal experience we are already seeing the first signs of diabetes, high blood pressure and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children and adolescents. The excess of sugar and refined carbohydrates associated with a sedentary lifestyle has multiple negative effects for organism and high risk of comorbidities, especially for dental health of children. We also notice problems in the dental field and here we refer to dental caries and dental demineralization. Aim of the study: In this observational study we set out to find out the possible correlation between obesity in children and dental problems by evaluating the body mass index, percentile, and a self-assessment method for dental problems using the ADA’s Caries Risk Assessment. Materials and Methods: In this study 51 children with ages between 7 and 17 years old were evaluated in the nutrition office. The degree of obesity was established using the body mass index and percentile. Each participant then had to fill out and ADA’s Caries Risk Assessment form for patients over 6 years of age. Results: Out of the 42 children with obesity or overweight that completed ADA’s Caries Risk Assessment form, 50% associate dental problems, more precisely carious lesions, according to the answers received using the ADA form, the high prevalence is correlated with sugar consumption. Conclusions: The analysis of the study lot highlighted a significant correlation between weight and oral health, which means that a poor diet, rich in refined sugars, may lead to obesity and also dental lesions. Improving collaboration between general and oral health professionals is essential to improve health and also to prevent the development of more serious comorbidities.

Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to evaluate the resistance of different marginal fit geometries for a provissional fixed dental prothesis, which can have an impact on the periodontal health. Materials and methods: Acording to the principles of the tooth preparation, four types of marginal design were made: feather edge, rounded shoulder, chamfer and heavy chamfer. Using a direct technique, prepared teeth were poured into metal abutments, temporary composite resin crowns were made and cemented. All four abutments were analyzed using theoretical and experimental methods. Results: The results obtained from the mechanical tests were more reliable than those obtained from numerical analyses. A chamfer marginal finish line a pre prosthetic periodontal therapy can have greater impact on the soft tissue healing process. Conclusions: These preliminary studies enhance the idea of ​​differentiating preparations for distinctive alternative prosthetic treatment plans.

The race to find an effective treatment for glioblastoma (GBM) remains a critical topic, because of its high aggressivity and impact on survival and the quality of life. Currently, due to GBM’s high heterogeneity, the conventional treatment success rate and response to therapy are relatively low, with a median survival rate of less than 20 months. A new point of view can be provided by the comprehension of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in pursuance of the development of new therapeutic strategies to aim for a longer survival rate with an improved quality of life and longer disease-free interval (DFI). The main components of the GBM TME are represented by the extracellular matrix (ECM), glioma cells and glioma stem cells (GSCs), immune cells (microglia, macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes), neuronal cells, all of them having dynamic interactions and being able to influence the tumoral growth, progression, and drug resistance thus being a potential therapeutic target. This paper will review the latest research on the GBM TME and the potential therapeutic targets to form an up-to-date strategy.

While the phrase ‘public service’ commonly refers to public bodies based on legal principles, it can also be understood as the services rendered to the public. Therefore, fostering the relationship of trust between services and citizens – as the users of these public services – involves thinking very finely about attracting audiences and the interactions between users and politicians through public communication, regardless of the channel used. The low use of open data and information in public action translates into a poor level of trust towards public institutions in Romania, with no clear vision to urgently improve the situation. In order to change the architecture of the data of public interest, the central institutions must act towards the citizen’ environment choice and therefore, will improve the public trust in institutions.

The paper presents some aspects concerning mechanical contact fatigue and corrosion wear and the links of these two kinds of wear in the common deterioration of the contact layer. The surface state, for both presented areas, is analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) in order to confirm the double action of corrosion and wear during the experimental test. 2 and 3D insights were taken from the worn area, corrosion compounds were identified and analyzed. Linear and cyclic potentiometry were performed on the base materials after the OCP was established in salt solution. When the level of the thermal and the mechanical stress are located at the same depth under the contact surface the resulting stress is greater and has the opportunity to develop the first crack to the surface. The metallic material surface presents a double type of corrosion: one based on oxidation and the other one based on oxidation plus wear (tribo-corrosion), the difference is being given by the material quantity and type involved.

Abstract Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease. Primary symptoms of PD arise with the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the Substantia Nigra Pars Compacta, but PD also affects the hippocampus and cortex, usually in its later stage. Approximately 15% of PD cases are familial with a genetic mutation. Two of the most associated genes with autosomal recessive (AR) early-onset familial PD are PINK1 and PRKN. In vitro studies of these genetic mutations are needed to understand the neurophysiological changes in patients’ neurons that may contribute to neurodegeneration. In this work, we generated and differentiated DA and hippocampal neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) derived from two patients with a double mutation in their PINK1 and PRKN (one homozygous and one heterozygous) genes and assessed their neurophysiology compared to two healthy controls. We showed that the synaptic activity of PD neurons generated from patients with the PINK1 and PRKN mutations is impaired in the hippocampus and dopaminergic neurons. Mutant dopaminergic neurons had enhanced excitatory post-synaptic activity. In addition, DA neurons with the homozygous mutation of PINK1 exhibited more pronounced electrophysiological differences compared to the control neurons. Signaling network analysis of RNA sequencing results revealed that Focal adhesion and ECM receptor pathway were the top two upregulated pathways in the mutant PD neurons. Our findings reveal that the phenotypes linked to PINK1 and PRKN mutations differ from those from other PD mutations, suggesting a unique interplay between these two mutations that drives different PD mechanisms.

Aim of the study. In this study, we examined how the choice of fabrication technology impacts the flexural strength of denture bases, considering the potential long-term consequences of permanent stresses on these structures. Such stresses can eventually result in cracking, fracture, or a loss of adaptation within the prosthetic field, which undergoes dynamic changes over time. Material and methods. The flexural strength was tested on specimens made of the same material (based on thermopolymerizable PMMA), using three different technologies: the classic press packing process and traditional polymerization, the injection technology and polymerization under constant pressure and an original suction-injection process (vacuum-pressure alternation), with polymerization under continuous pressure. The actual testing of the flexural strength was carried out in collaboration with the Department of Strength of Materials within the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture Timisoara. Results & Conclusions. Superior outcomes were achieved through the suction-injection method, with polymerization under sustained pressure, in comparison to injection techniques associated with polymerization under constant pressure. These results surpassed those attained through manual press packing procedures and traditional hot polymerization methods.

Aim of the study: To evaluate the efficacy of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) in non-invasively monitoring temperature variations during ceramic sintering for dental prosthetics, emphasizing the importance of precise temperature control for optimal material properties and structural integrity. Materials and Methods: The study utilized OCT to examine 17 metal-ceramic restorations at various sintering temperatures (standard, 80°C below, and 50°C above the standard). The method involved generating 61 cross-sectional images per prosthesis to identify defects and structural changes. Results: OCT revealed significant insights into the impact of temperature deviations on ceramic microstructure, including uniform grain sizes at standard temperatures and areas of reduced retention at elevated temperatures, highlighting the technology’s potential in quality control. Conclusions: OCT offers a rapid, accurate, and non-destructive means to assess sintering temperatures and detect defects in dental ceramics, facilitating improvements in dental prosthetics’ fabrication process. The study advocates for OCT’s integration into routine dental laboratory practices to enhance prosthesis quality and reliability.

The aim of the study was to assess the mechanical strength of metal frameworks for fixed partial prostheses, made of Co-Cr alloy. Subsequently, the obtained structures were sectioned at the areas of interest and welded using two technological processes: laser and plasma. The mechanical tests were conducted using the Mecmesin MultiTest 5-i device. Following the mechanical tests, it was observed that the control samples did not fracture but yielded through deformation. The samples welded with laser fractured, while those welded with plasma fractured at a much lower value. The success of welding depends on the joint surface, absence of sharp angles, ideal surface preparation, avoidance of inclusions and discontinuities, and avoiding a reduced cross-sectional area. The mechanical strength of welded joints influences the longevity of a repair of the metallic component of a prosthesis. Statistical analyses confirm that repairing metal frameworks for fixed prosthetic restorations using laser represents a viable option, even though the samples fractured under high mechanical loads.

Abstract Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease with both genetic and sporadic origins. In this study, we investigated the electrophysiological properties, synaptic activity, and gene expression differences in dopaminergic (DA) neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of healthy controls, sporadic PD (sPD) patients, and PD patients with E326K-GBA1 mutations. Our results demonstrate reduced sodium currents and synaptic activity in DA neurons derived from PD patients with E326K-GBA1 mutations, suggesting a potential contribution to PD pathophysiology. We also observed distinct electrophysiological alterations in sPD DA neurons, which included a decrease in synaptic currents. RNA sequencing analysis revealed unique dysregulated pathways in sPD neurons and E326K-GBA1 neurons, further supporting the notion that molecular mechanisms driving PD may differ between PD patients. In agreement with our previous reports, Extracellular matrix and Focal adhesion pathways were among the top dysregulated pathways in DA neurons from sPD patients and from patients with E326K-GBA1 mutations. Overall, our study further confirms that impaired synaptic activity is a convergent functional phenotype in DA neurons derived from PD patients across multiple genetic mutations as well as sPD. At the transcriptome level, we find that the brain extracellular matrix is highly involved in PD pathology across multiple PD-associated mutations as well as sPD.

The concept of sustainable development is extremely complex and is based on meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In the analysis of the concept of sustainable development, it is considered that man is the main pawn and due to this desideratum, the concept of sustainable human development is also used. At the state level, it is necessary, in this context, to make sustained efforts to transform sustainability into a national, but above all, global project. Young generations, responsible for their future, must master certain concepts of sustainability in order to be able to identify them in everyday life, because otherwise, without a sustained effort, there is the possibility of irretrievable deterioration of living conditions and quality of life for all of us, but especially for the following populations. Education for Sustainable Development must be a global priority. Following the research carried out, we are convinced that the discipline of education for sustainable development could change the students' perception of the complex issues specific to the 21st century.

Aim of study. The objective of this study was to evaluate the distribution of implants with peri-implantitis and healthy/peri-mucositis implant sites in relation to the periodontal status of the patients treated with implant-supported fixed prosthetic restorations. Materials and method. The study was performed on 206 implants inserted in a group of 54 patients treated by implant-supported fixed prosthetic restorations. The periodontal and peri-implant status were assessed by clinical and radiological examens. The assessed components of the periodontal status were as follows: periodontal parameters (CAL, PD, MBL), periodontal history, %BOP, %PD ≥ 5mm, stage and progression of periodontal disease, patients’ compliance to supportive periodontal therapy (STP). The distribution of implants without peri-implantitis vs. implants with peri-implantitis was assessed by statistical analyses performed in SPSS 29.0. Results. In patients with periodontal history, it was recorded higher percentage of implants with peri-implantitis (63,2%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (19%). The distribution of implants in patients with >25% BOP sites was significantly higher for implants with peri-implantitis (52,6%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (1,2%). The distribution of implants in patients with > 5% PPD ≥ 5mm was significantly higher for implants with peri-implantitis (68,4%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (23,8%). The distribution of implants in patients with BL/age 1-1,50 was significantly higher for implants with peri-implantitis (57,9%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (7,1%). The distribution of implants in relation to periodontitis stage/progression IV/C was significantly higher for implants with peri-implantitis (57,9%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (7,1%). The distribution of implants in relation to periodontitis progression stage C was significantly higher for implants with peri-implantitis (57,9%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (7,1%). The distribution of implants in relation to non-compliant patients to STP was significantly higher for implants with peri-implantitis (36,8%) vs. implants without peri-implantitis (7,1%). Conclusions. Components of periodontal status (periodontal history, %BOP sites, %PPD ≥ 5mm, BL/age, periodontitis susceptibility, STP compliance patients) influence significantly distribution of implants with peri-implantitis when compared to healthy/peri-mucositis implants.

Aim of study. The objective of this study was to evaluate the periodontal and peri-implant health status of patients treated with implant-supported fixed prosthetic restorations. Materials and method. The study was performed 54 partially edentulous patients (mean age 63.48 ± 11.062 yrs) rehabilitated by fixed implant-prosthetic therapy. The mean follow-up was 8,51 yrs. (range: 5-15 yrs.). The periodontal and peri-implant health status (208 implants) were evaluated by collecting data from charts and clinical and radiological examens at recall. Data regarding periodontal status and periodontitis susceptibility were compared between patients with health peri-implant status and those diagnosed with at least one implant with peri-implantitis. Results. All clinical and radiological periodontal parameters were significantly lower in patients without peri-implantitis when compared to patients diagnosed with at least one implant with peri-implantitis. The percent of patients with periodontal history diagnosed with at least one implant with peri-implantitis (90.9%) was significantly higher when compared to patients without periodontal history (68.75%). The periodontitis susceptibility of implant-prosthetic rehabilitated patients was significantly higher among patients diagnosed with at least one implant with peri-implantitis (72.5% of these patients were classified in stages III and IV, 45.5% with grade C) when compared to patients without peri-implantitis (50.1% in stages III and IV, 6.3% with grade C). Among patients with health peri-implant status, 87.5% were compliant to supportive periodontal therapy (STP); only 27.3% of patients diagnosed with at least one implant with peri-implantitis were STP compliant. Conclusions. The peri-implantitis was diagnosed in 18.4% of the implants in our cohort. The periodontal status of the implant-prosthetic rehabilitated patients diagnosed with peri-implantitis was significantly impaired when compared to patients without peri-implantitis. Also, prevalence of peri-implantitis was significantly higher in patients with periodontal history. The compliance of the implant-prosthetic rehabilitated patients to supportive periodontal therapy can ensure the long-term success of the fixed implant-prosthetic therapy.

The oral microbiome, a diverse assembly of over 700 species, significantly influences human health, developing early in life and shaped by factors such as delivery mode and diet. This study explores the intricate interplay between the oral and gut microbiota, focusing on its relevance in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Notably, the research reveals distinct dysbiosis within the oral microbiome of children affected by IBD, suggesting these microbial changes as potential diagnostic markers. The study also investigates shifts in the oral microbiota before and after the initiation of IBD treatment. This multifaceted perspective underscores the relevance of oral health in the broader landscape of pediatric IBD management.

Abstract Background Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) on the auricle is believed to carry a higher risk of metastatic spread. The rates of lymphatic metastasis reported in the literature have varied widely. There are no established prognostic criteria to determine which of these tumors are higher risk and warrant prophylactic treatment of the associated lymphatic basins. Objective To retrospectively evaluate outcomes after surgical treatment of auricular CSCC in our department, examining excision completeness, tumor recurrence, and lymphatic metastasis. Secondarily, to identify factors associated with lymphatic metastasis. Methods One hundred and thirty‐eight consecutive cases of auricular SCC were excised from 126 patients in our department over a 7‐year period (January 2012–December 2018). Data were retrospectively collected on patient characteristics, tumor histology, surgical procedures, and follow‐up. Results Incomplete initial excision occurred in 17 cases (12.32%). Six patients (4.76%) had a local recurrence. Lymphatic metastasis occurred in eight patients (6.35%), on average within 10.25 months after primary excision. Six patients with metastasis died during follow‐up, with a mean survival of 10.2 months. Older age was associated with lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.0267). Other factors, including tumor recurrence, size, grade, cartilage invasion, and positive margins, were evaluated and not significantly associated with metastasis. Conclusion In this study, the metastatic rate of auricular SCC was 6.35%, which is within the previously reported ranges. No histological prognostic factors were identified in this study, which may be due to our limited sample size. In the absence of established prognostic criteria, decisions regarding prophylactic treatment should be made on an individual basis with multidisciplinary support.

The Bee Cosmetic Surgery Scale (BCSS) is a novel clinical tool designed to assess the psychopathological, psychosocial, and decision-making factors involved in accepting cosmetic procedures. This prospective, multicenter study aimed to propose and validate the BCSS, which considers aesthetic aspects, personal pathological history, and psychopathological implications leading to the acceptance of invasive or non-invasive aesthetic interventions. The study included 281 participants aged 18–66 years, divided into three groups: non-invasive cosmetic surgery (NICS), invasive and non-invasive cosmetic surgery (INICS), and individuals who had not undergone cosmetic surgery (NCS). Participants were randomly selected from patients visiting plastic surgery services and various medical services in Oradea, Romania, between October 2022 and March 2024. The BCSS comprises 20 items with Likert-type responses, ranging from one to five. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was used to measure perceived social support. The BCSS aims to elucidate the patient’s desire for aesthetic procedures, whether it stems from an impulsive act, warrants a longer decision-making period, or necessitates addressing psychological or psychiatric conditions before scheduling the procedure. The scale enables cosmetic surgeons to assess whether the patient has been adequately informed and understands the risks and complications associated with the cosmetic surgical procedure.

This study examines how positive beliefs about organizational changes during a foreign acquisition case influence organizational identification, perceptions of ethical organizational culture, and individual performance seven months post-acquisition. By integrating theories of social identity and organizational change, we offer a new perspective on how positive perceptions of change influence key outcomes following mergers and acquisitions (M&As). Using a cross-lagged design with two cross-sectional datasets within a high-intensity telecommuting organization in Romania, we found that viewing change positively significantly enhanced organizational identification, perceptions of ethical organizational culture, and individual performance. These findings highlight the crucial role of effectively managing the narrative surrounding change processes and enhancing employee perceptions in successful organizational integration following M&As.

Background/Objectives: The thyroid gland can represent the seat of development for giant tumors exceeding 10 cm in diameter. A retrospective analysis on 21 cases of giant thyroid tumors with comorbidities, operated in the ENT Department of the Bucharest University Emergency Hospital has been conducted. Methods: Giant benign tumors accounted for 28.57% of the cases studied and reached gigantic volumes in an average time interval of 3 years, with an average resection piece weight of 318 g. Malignant tumors accounted for 71.43%, with an average duration of evolution of 7 years, with an average resection piece weight of 581 g. Results: Dysphagia was present in all patients, dyspnea in 47.61% and dysphonia in 38.09% of cases. Total thyroidectomy is the gold standard in giant thyroid tumors, associated with radical neck dissection, extended to groups VI and VII in malignant tumors. In 10 of 11 cases of giant malignant thyroid tumors (90.90%), without anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, the survival at 5 years after multimodal oncologic treatment was favorable. Anticoagulant treatment increased the risk of postoperative reversible recurrent laryngeal nerve lesion. Conclusions: The management of giant thyroid tumors in patients with multiple comorbidities needs a multidisciplinary team including endocrinologist, radiologist, anesthesiologist, pathologist, ENT surgeon, thoracic surgeon, oncologist and radiotherapist.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a major health problem, having significant consequences on motor and sensory function, as well as on the quality of life of affected patients. The objective of this study is to assess the severity of high post-traumatic spinal cord injuries depending on the age and gender of the patients and the manner of their etiology. We used useful tools for evaluating and classifying the severity of spinal cord injuries: ASIA classification, MAS and MTS score. This is a retrospective observational study included a number of 146 patients with various high spinal cord injuries whose diagnosis was confirmed by imaging. The mean age of the cohort was 42.97 ± 15.9 years, with a range of 18 to 83 years. The severity of the ASIA score was inversely proportional to the age of the patients. Patients with ASIA A were younger than those with ASIA D. Regarding the etiology of the trauma, most patients, 39.7%, were traumatized following a road accident. The etiology of trauma has a significant influence on the severity of spinal cord injury. Accidents are the leading cause of injury, followed by falls and diving trauma. There is a correlation between the ASIA score and muscle tone/spasticity, which may influence the therapeutic approach and patient management.

Introduction: Severe burns affect multiple organ systems, triggering catabolic reactions in the body. Advances in burn care and antimicrobial therapies improve survival rates, but inhalation injuries significantly reduce survival rates, accounting for up to 90% of burn-related mortality, although present in only 1/3 of patients. These findings underscore the need for a standardized approach in diagnosis and treatment. Research Aim: Retrospective analysis of burn cases involving respiratory tract involvement and highlighting current methods of diagnosis and treatment. Materials and Methods: Our study represents a retrospective one conducted on a cohort of 93 patients diagnosed clinically with respiratory tract burns, hospitalized between 2020 and 2022 at the IMSP Traumatology and Orthopedics Clinical Hospital, with an average age of 47.32 years. Demographic, clinical, and outcome data were collected and analyzed in detail. Results: The study revealed a predominance of patients aged 41-60 years, with the majority being males (75.9%). Common mechanisms of burn injury included gas cylinder explosion (23.7%) and fires (22.6%). Severe burns (86.1% grade 3) were frequent, with large affected areas (46.2% >50%). Clinical manifestations included cutaneous lesions and respiratory symptoms. Diagnosis primarily involved clinical examination and chest radiography (92.5%). Treatment involved complex procedures and life support, with a favorable recovery rate of 91.4%. Conclusions: Burns in the facial, head, and neck regions present a high risk of respiratory tract involvement. Clinical diagnosis and chest radiography remain the predominantly used evaluation methods, although bronchoscopy may be underutilized. Treatment involves complex life support strategies, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing these cases.

Introduction: Deep burns, primarily caused by thermal exposure such as fire and hot liquids, result in severe tissue injuries with enduring consequences, prompting extensive research into their etiology, treatment, and ramifications. Surgical intervention is pivotal, though its efficacy varies based on diverse factors. Technological advancements and global collaboration are paramount for enhancing treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. Research Aim: The research aim involves a retrospective analysis of burn cases, particularly those involving respiratory tract involvement, with a focus on elucidating current diagnostic and treatment modalities. Materials and Methods: A patient cohort of 110 individuals, predominantly male (ratio 3:1), aged 40-80, underwent examination. Key criteria evaluated encompassed gender, age, pre-treatment diagnosis, intervals between surgeries, hospitalization duration, burn severity and extent, blood transfusions, burn types and locations, treatment modalities, and post-treatment complications. Result: Findings revealed a male predominance and increased susceptibility among individuals aged 40-60 and 60-80. Surgical approaches varied, encompassing excisional debridement, skin grafting, and, in some cases, amputation. Common causes of deep burns, such as fire and hot liquids, were identified, along with associated complications like infections and coagulation abnormalities. Effective management of these complications, including systemic inflammatory response syndrome and post-hemorrhagic anemia, proved pivotal for optimal patient outcomes. Conclusions: In conclusion, deep burns pose significant challenges, particularly for middle-aged and older individuals. Surgical interventions necessitate individualized and comprehensive approaches. Efficient management of associated complications is imperative for ensuring optimal patient recovery.

Abstract Immunotherapies have revolutionized cancer treatment. These treatments rely on immune cell activation in tumours, which limits the number of patients that respond. Inflammatory molecules, like lipopolysaccharides (LPS), can activate innate immune cells, which convert tumour microenvironments from cold to hot, and increase therapeutic efficacy. However, systemic delivery of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) can induce cytokine storm. In this work, we developed immune‐controlling Salmonella (ICS) that only produce LPS in tumours after colonization and systemic clearance. We tuned the expression of msbB, which controls production of immunogenic LPS, by optimizing its ribosomal binding sites and protein degradation tags. This genetic system induced a controllable inflammatory response and increased dendritic cell cross‐presentation in vitro. The strong off state did not induce TNFα production and prevented adverse events when injected into mice. The accumulation of ICS in tumours after intravenous injection focused immune responses specifically to tumours. Tumour‐specific expression of msbB increased infiltration of immune cells, activated monocytes and neutrophils, increased tumour levels of IL‐6, and activated CD8 T cells in draining lymph nodes. These immune responses reduced tumour growth and increased mouse survival. By increasing the efficacy of bacterial anti‐cancer therapy, localized production of LPS could provide increased options to patients with immune‐resistant cancers.

A série Manuals of Romance Linguistics, publicada pela editora De Gruyter e coordenada por Günter Holtus e Fernando Sánchez-Miret, já se afigura uma das referências incontornáveis para os especialistas em linguística românica. Trata-se de um projeto ambicioso, que pretende publicar 60 volumes sobre as mais diversas áreas dos Estudos da Linguagem aplicadas às línguas românicas e que já chegou a meio caminho, com mais de trinta volumes publicados. A título de exemplo, mencionamos algumas das temáticas já abordadas: modos e modalidades, tradutologia, fronteiras linguísticas, estandardização, linguística popular, linguagens especializadas, interfaces gramaticais, dêixis, etc. Na série já foram publicados manuais sobre o friulano, o francês e as francofonias, o italiano, o espanhol de Espanha e o espanhol das Américas, o sardo, o galego, o catalão, o ladino, etc. O vigésimo primeiro manual da série, coordenado por Johannes Kabatek e Albert Wall é dedicado ao português do Brasil, sendo o segundo volume dedicado à língua portuguesa, sendo precedido por Manual de linguística portuguesa, coordenado por Ana Maria Martins e Ernestina Carrilho e publicado em 2016. Author Biography Veronica MANOLE Faculdade de Letras, Universidade Babeș-Bolyai, Cluj-Napoca, Roménia. veronica.manole@ubbcluj.ro. Faculdade de Letras, Universidade Babeș-Bolyai, Cluj-Napoca, Roménia. Email: veronica.manole@ubbcluj.ro.

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) has been admitted relatively recently as a condition/syndrome within oral pathology, bordering various other medical specialties, which may collaborate to determine the diagnosis and especially to achieve therapeutic success. From a clinical point of view, BMS can present itself in 2 forms: the primary/essential form, whose etiopathogenesis is unexplained, justifying the permanent concern as a topic of research at the international level, and the secondary form, in which the causes of the syndrome can be identified and treated/ removed, allowing healing. Particular to the primary form of BMS is the discrepancy between the extent of subjective pain felt by the patient as “burning” and the lack of any objective (clinical) signs in the oral mucosa. In this form of BMS, the pathogenesis of pain can be explained by invoking the role and importance of the field and some favorable factors. In recent years it has been noticed that changes in taste perception and pain tolerance could be possible causes of the “burning” sensation. Thus, the involvement of the field allowed the following hypothesis to be issued, namely that taste is generated mainly at the level of the fungiform lingual papillae.

Alexandra Dadarlat-Pop,1,2 Adrian Molnar,3,4,&ast; Adela Serban,1,2,&ast; Raluca Tomoaia,2,5 Claudia Hagiu,6,7,&ast; Simona Manole,8,9,&ast; Alexandru Oprea,3,4,&ast; Lorena Mocanu,1 Andrei Picos,10,&ast; Stefan Mot1,2 1Cardiology Department, Heart Institute Niculae St&abreve;ncioiu, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 2Cardiology Department, Iuliu Ha&tcedil;ieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 3Cardiovascular Surgery Department, Heart Institute Niculae St&abreve;ncioiu, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 4Cardiovascular Surgery Department, Iuliu Ha&tcedil;ieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 5Cardiology Department, Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 6Gastroenterology Department, Iuliu Ha&tcedil;ieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 7“Prof. Dr. Octavian Fodor” Regional Gastroenterology-Hepatology Institute, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 8Radiology and Medical Imaging Department, Iuliu Ha&tcedil;ieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 9Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, Heart Institute Niculae St&abreve;ncioiu, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 10Department of Prevention in Dental Medicine, ‘Iuliu Hatieganu’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Raluca Tomoaia, Email raluca.tomoaia@gmail.comBackground: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) became the leading therapeutic strategy for aortic valve replacement in older patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Echocardiographic parameters that mark the left ventricle and right ventricle reverse remodeling after the TAVR are not well established. The aim of the current study is to describe the dynamics of both left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) strain derived from speckle tracking echocardiography in elderly patients at 3-months after the TAVR procedure.Methods: We enrolled 52 consecutive patients (77 ± 4.9 years old, median STS score of 3.1) who underwent transfemoral TAVR at our tertiary care center. All patients were evaluated at baseline and 3 months following TAVR.Results: The LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) 3-month following TAVR was significantly improved compared with baseline values (− 16 ± 4.2% vs − 16 ± 4.2%; p < 0.001) but no significant changes in the RV GLS 3 and 6 segments model following TAVR were registered. The LV ejection fraction was significantly improved 3-months after the TAVR procedure. LV-GLS at baseline demonstrated a strong positive correlation with LV-GLS at 3 months (r = 0.69) and a moderate correlation with RV strain parameters (r = 0.38 and r = 0.56), but also a negative correlation with LVEF at follow-up (r=− 0.61). Interestingly, in contrast to LVEF, none of the strain parameters correlated with age. NT-proBNP values were correlated with both LV-GLS (r = 0.37) and LVEF (r=− 0.5) at baseline. However, at follow-up, baseline NT-proBNP values remained correlated only to LV-GLS at 3-months (r = 0.24), but the correlation was weak.Keywords: elderly population, transcatheter aortic valve replacement, aortic stenosis, global longitudinal strain, outcome

Background: Despite recent advancements, medical technology has not yet reached its peak. Precision medicine is growing rapidly, thanks to machine learning breakthroughs powered by increased computational capabilities. This article explores a deep learning application for computer-aided diagnosis in dermatology. Methods: Using a custom model based on EfficientNetB3 and deep learning, we propose an approach for skin lesion classification that offers superior results with smaller, cheaper, and faster inference times compared to other models. The skin images dataset used for this research includes 8222 files selected from the authors’ collection and the ISIC 2019 archive, covering six dermatological conditions. Results: The model achieved 95.4% validation accuracy in four categories—melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, benign keratosis-like lesions, and melanocytic nevi—using an average of 1600 images per category. Adding two categories with fewer images (about 700 each)—squamous cell carcinoma and actinic keratoses—reduced the validation accuracy to 88.8%. The model maintained accuracy on new clinical test images taken under the same conditions as the training dataset. Conclusions: The custom model demonstrated excellent performance on the diverse skin lesions dataset, with significant potential for further enhancements.

For more than 40 years, autologous platelet concentrates have been used in clinical medicine. Since the first formula used, namely platelet-rich plasma (PRP), other platelet concentrates have been experimented with, including platelet-rich fibrin and concentrated growth factor. Platelet concentrates have three standard characteristics: they act as scaffolds, they serve as a source of growth factors and cytokines, and they contain live cells. PRP has become extensively used in regenerative medicine for the successful treatment of a variety of clinical (non-)dermatological conditions like alopecies, acne scars, skin burns, skin ulcers, muscle, cartilage, and bone repair, and as an adjuvant in post-surgery wound healing, with obvious benefits in terms of functionality and aesthetic recovery of affected tissues/organs. These indications were well documented, and a large amount of evidence has already been published supporting the efficacy of this method. The primordial principle behind minimally invasive PRP treatments is the usage of the patient’s own platelets. The benefits of the autologous transplantation of thrombocytes are significant, representing a fast and economic method that requires only basic equipment and training, and it is biocompatible, thus being a low risk for the patient (infection and immunological reactions can be virtually disregarded). Usually, the structural benefits of applying PRP are attributed to fibroblasts only, as they are considered the most numerous cell population within the interstitium. However, this apparent simplistic explanation is still eluding those different types of interstitial cells (distinct from fibroblasts) that are residing within stromal tissue, e.g., telocytes (TCs). Moreover, dermal TCs have an already documented potential in angiogenesis (extra-cutaneous, but also within skin), and their implication in skin recovery in a few dermatological conditions was attested and described ultrastructurally and immunophenotypically. Interestingly, PRP biochemically consists of a series of growth factors, cytokines, and other molecules, to which TCs have also proven to have a positive expression. Thus, it is attractive to hypothesize and to document any tissular collaboration between cutaneous administered PRP and local dermal TCs in skin recovery/repair/regeneration. Therefore, TCs could be perceived as the missing link necessary to provide a solid explanation of the good results achieved by administering PRP in skin-repairing processes.

This literature review explores advancements in obesity and diabetes mellitus diagnosis and treatment, highlighting recent innovations that promise more personalized and effective healthcare interventions. For obesity diagnosis, traditional methods like body mass index (BMI) calculations are now complemented by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, with emerging biomarkers from “omics” technologies. Diabetes diagnosis has advanced with standard hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing supplemented by novel measures such as advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and autoantibodies, alongside the use of artificial intelligence to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Treatment options for obesity are expanding beyond traditional methods. Minimally invasive bariatric surgeries, endoscopic procedures, fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs), and pharmaceuticals like GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, tirzepatide) show promising results. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and prescription digital therapeutics (PDTs) are also valuable tools for weight management. Diabetes treatment is also undergoing a transformation. Ultra-long-acting insulins and innovative oral insulin delivery methods are on the horizon. SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists are proving to be effective medications for blood sugar control. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and closed-loop insulin delivery are revolutionizing diabetes management, while stem cell therapy holds promise for the future. By integrating advanced diagnostic tools with personalized treatment plans, obesity and diabetes care are entering a new era. This personalized approach empowers patients and paves the way for improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.

Thank you for your comment; it adds value to the article and highlights the importance of molecular testing [...]