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Quality of life, well-being, and psycho-emotional balance are closely related to the quality of the diet, the level of physical activity, the quality of rest, but also the absence of the consumption of narcotic substances and tobacco, or alcohol abuse. Based on the distribution of a questionnaire that included 30 questions, we aimed to statistically evaluate several factors that influence mental health and vices. It recorded a total of 1719 valid responses, which came from 78.3% female respondents and 21.7% male respondents. After processing the anthropometric data, it was observed that the majority of respondents are of normal weight (63.87%) and come from women in particular (36.13%). Based on the answers recorded, although over 60% of the respondents participating in the study are up to 40 years old, there is an increased tendency towards sedentarism (over 58% of the respondents declaring that they do sports very rarely or not at all), a low tendency regarding optimal consumption of vegetables and fruits, many respondents do not hydrate properly, which is why approximately 60% of respondents feel frequently tired, and over 32% are frequently nervous. The increased level of stress among the respondents and emotional eating are also generated by inadequate rest, reduced physical activity, and a diet that does not help the efficient detoxification of the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the last 30 years, we have seen an increase in the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Most cases are diagnosed in the 2nd and 3rd decades of life, a population group that is most familiar with the latest innovations in technology. Patients want to obtain more information about their disease and have complete control over the pathology, while reducing physical meetings with their doctor. Starting from these ideas, the present study aimed to develop a mobile application (app) to support IBD patients on symptoms/events reporting and on treatment administration monitoring. Methods: A multidisciplinary team was created to document and develop the app requirements and design its functionality. The app was beta-tested by several IBD patients. Their feedback was used to further refine the app. Results: We developed connected apps for both smartphones and smartwatches, with dedicated sections for event reporting and medication administration reminders/reporting. Conclusions: The development of apps dedicated to IBD patients is still in early progress. By creating this app, we aim to improve the evolution and compliance of IBD patients and to obtain new information that will have a beneficial impact on the management of these patients and open the door for personalized medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the role of zinc in biological systems has been a subject of intense research. Zinc is required for multiple metabolic processes as a structural, regulatory, or catalytic ion. The objective of this study, was to assess the toxicity profile of a newly synthesized zinc-boron molecule on cultured cells. Zinc fructoborate, at different levels of concentration, was tested for its impact on the Vero kidney cell line (ATCC® CCL-81™) using the MTT assay. The compound exhibited a low cytotoxic effect on the cell line. Thus, our study demonstrates that the zinc fructoborate could become a promising dietary supplement molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CNS is very susceptible to oxidative stress; the gut microbiota plays an important role as a trigger of oxidative damage that promotes mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. In the current review, we discuss recent findings on oxidative-stress-related inflammation mediated by the gut–brain axis in multiple sclerosis (MS). Growing evidence suggests targeting gut microbiota can be a promising strategy for MS management. Intricate interaction between multiple factors leads to increased intra- and inter-individual heterogeneity, frequently painting a different picture in vivo from that obtained under controlled conditions. Following an evidence-based approach, all proposed interventions should be validated in clinical trials with cohorts large enough to reach significance. Our review summarizes existing clinical trials focused on identifying suitable interventions, the suitable combinations, and appropriate timings to target microbiota-related oxidative stress. Most studies assessed relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS); only a few studies with very limited cohorts were carried out in other MS stages (e.g., secondary progressive MS–SPMS). Future trials must consider an extended time frame, perhaps starting with the perinatal period and lasting until the young adult period, aiming to capture as many complex intersystem interactions as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although cancer can be cured if detected early and treated effectively, it is still a leading cause of death worldwide. Tumor development can be limited by an appropiate immune response, but it can be promoted by chronic extensive inflammation through metabolic dysregulation and angiogenesis. In the past decade, numerous efforts have been made in order to identify novel candidates with predictive values in cancer diagnostics. In line with this, researchers have investigated the involvement of pentraxin-3 (PTX-3) in cellular proliferation and immune escape in various types of cancers, although it has not been clearly elucidated. PTX-3 is a member of the long pentraxin subfamily which plays an important role in regulating inflammation, innate immunity response, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. Increased synthesis of inflammatory biomarkers and activation of different cellular mechanisms can induce PTX-3 expression in various types of cells (neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, myeloid dendritic cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells). PTX-3 has both pro- and anti-tumor functions, thus dual functions in oncogenesis. This review elucidates the potential usefulness of PTX-3 as a serum biomarker in cancer. While future investigations are needed, PTX-3 is emerging as a promising tool for cancer's diagnosis and prognosis, and also treatment monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. We aimed to assess the presence of liver fibrosis using transient elastography in a group of PsA patients, compared to controls, and its possible relationship with MTX treatment. Methods. We performed a prospective study on 41 patients diagnosed with PsA admitted to the Rheumatology Department of the Emergency County Hospital Craiova and a control group, of 20 sex and age-matched subjects. Patients data included demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters and were collected from every patient in accordance to the study protocol. Liver stiffness was evaluated using transient elastograhy, by an experienced investigator, using Fibroscan system (Echosens, Paris, France). Results. After assessing liver fibrosis (LF) by transient elastography, we obtained statistically significant values compared to controls (6.04+1.65 kPa vs 4.16 +0.93 kPa, p = 0.002); liver fibrosis was found in 11 patients (26.81%), 9 of them undergoing MTX treatment. Analyzing the impact of MTX treatment, we found statistically significant values between the two groups (6.04+1.65 kPa for MTX treated group vs 5.35+1.30kPa, p = 0.03 for non-MTX patients). Analyzing the differences between patients with/without liver fibrosis, we reckoned the following data: no differences for sex, age, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes or hepatic function; significant differences were observed for BMI, dyslipidemia and fatty liver. Conclusions. Hepatic involvement, especially liver fibrosis might be underestimated in PsA patients, and it is necessary to be properly and periodically evaluated in order to prevent further complications and maintain the efficient and safe dose of MTX, the first line therapeutic agent chosen for these patients. Non invasive hepatic imaging methods, such as transient elastography should certainly be considered for screening, along with a proper monitoring of comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite all recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C virus infection, the incidence remains high, motivating the present study to improve the prognosis of the disease through early diagnosis of asymptomatic patients with possible detectable risk factors. The aim of this study is to identify HCV infection in a disadvantaged population before the onset of symptoms and guide to specialized services for initiation of antiviral therapy, thus adhering to the WHO goal of elimination the infection. Materials and Methods: In the first two weeks after the start of the study, 320 patients with detectable risk factors for HCV were tested using rapid tests, in a southwestern city of Romania, Orșova, with the participation of four doctors, via Family Medicine Offices. Results: As a percentage, the amount of detection based on rapid tests was 2.5%, the positive results have apparently been achieved exclusively among female subjects. All patients have been informed about the result and included in the diagnostic trial, where they were fully evaluated to determine if they were eligible for therapy. Conclusions. Population screening contributes to the diagnosis and elimination of an underdiagnosed pathology, in a disadvantaged area with limited access to medical care. The positive feedback that has been received in just a few weeks after its beginning, once again has motivated to emphasis the population screening, with real considerations on the possibility of expanding this program on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) encompasses a cluster of chronic inflammatory disorders affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The primary objective of IBD treatment is the management of inflammation, symptom control, and the induction and sustenance of remission. Therapeutic interventions commonly encompass medications, dietary modifications, and, in certain instances, surgical procedures; however, a definitive cure remains elusive. While several nations have established national IBD registries, Romania has not. The responsibility of the implementation of such a registry was assumed by a non-profit organization, the "Clubul Român de Boală Crohn și Colită Ulcerativă", resulting in the creation of the registrul-ibd.ro platform. Given the absence of a curative remedy for IBD, it falls within the realm of personalized medicine. In light of this, the University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova has developed a mobile application, IBDMonitor, intricately linked with the IBD registry. This innovative application empowers patients to meticulously record critical data, encompassing medication administration, symptomatology, lifestyle habits, as well as physiological, pathological, and daily occurrences. Medical professionals are granted real-time access to these patient-generated reports, enabling them to make prompt treatment adjustments. Following a successful pilot phase, various insights have emerged, notably revealing a relatively low long-term adherence rate to the application. Consequently, advocating for the widespread adoption of both the application and the registry on a national scale holds the potential to significantly enhance the utilization of these invaluable tools in the management of IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a severe disease with a high prevalence and 3 to 15% mortality worldwide, which can represent an important challenge for the physician. Oxidative stress and antioxidants are involved in AP progression. The mechanisms responsible for the onset and progression of AP are still poorly understood. Previous studies have highlighted the important contribution of antioxidants and oxidative stress in AP. The existence of a relationship between oxidative stress and antioxidants in AP is unquestionable, although a more accurate understanding of the mechanistic pathways involved is required to create a solid basis for potential prevention or treatment strategies. Further investigation is needed to clarify the role of antioxidant status and the severity of AP and to determine the association between oxidative stress and pancreatic enzyme activities. Antioxidant therapy may represent an interesting option for the management of patients with AP, although additional information about the effectiveness of this potential treatment is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The elimination of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) will only be possible if rapid and efficient actions are taken. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are computing systems based on the topology of the biological brain, containing connected artificial neurons that can be tasked with solving medical problems. Aim: We expanded the previously presented HCV micro-elimination project started in September 2020 that aimed to identify HCV infection through coordinated screening in asymptomatic populations and developed two ANN models able to identify at-risk subjects selected through a targeted questionnaire. Material and method: Our study included 14,042 screened participants from a southwestern region of Oltenia, Romania. Each participant completed a 12-item questionnaire along with anti-HCV antibody rapid testing. Hepatitis-C-positive subjects were linked to care and ultimately could receive antiviral treatment if they had detectable viremia. We built two ANNs, trained and tested on the dataset derived from the questionnaires and then used to identify patients in a similar, already existing dataset. Results: We found 114 HCV-positive patients (81 females), resulting in an overall prevalence of 0.81%. We identified sharing personal hygiene items, receiving blood transfusions, having dental work or surgery and re-using hypodermic needles as significant risk factors. When used on an existing dataset of 15,140 persons (119 HCV cases), the first ANN models correctly identified 97 (81.51%) HCV-positive subjects through 13,401 tests, while the second ANN model identified 81 (68.06%) patients through only 5192 tests. Conclusions: The use of ANNs in selecting screening candidates may improve resource allocation and prioritize cases more prone to severe disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In response to the goal of the World Health Organisation to eliminate hepatitis C virus infections by 2030, Romania is striving for national elimination. An already successful micro-elimination project was expanded to test-and-treat specific populations and at-risk groups. The aim of this project was to identify the individuals with HCV infection in disadvantaged regions who do not have proper medical care access. Materials and Methods: Our two-arm interventional cross-sectional study used rapid anti-HCV antibody testing on two population groups from the Romanian southwestern region of Oltenia, approached between September 2020 and May 2021. The first group consisted of predominantly over 40 years old individuals, recruited through five family doctors from two medium-sized towns (community lot—CL). We approached a second group, aged 18–65, through 11 medical offices of five large factories in the same region (industry lot, IL). A 12-items questionnaire was given to each participant, to determine risk factors and record demographic data. Eligible patients initiated antiviral therapy using direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Results: We enrolled 15,383 individuals between all 16 locations. The overall prevalence by antibody testing was 0.77% (119 cases). Of these, 57 subsequently received treatment with DAAs. We identified blood transfusions as a risk factor within the CL. Participants in the IL reported a relatively high risk for the following situations: sharing of personal hygiene belongings with another person, performing previous blood transfusions, dental interventions and previous surgery. Conclusions: In this global context, the use of micro-elimination allows interventions to be faster and more efficient. This is possible by targeting smaller and specific HCV risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]