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Parotid gland pathology represents a web of differential diagnoses. There are many complex cases that require extensive diagnostic tests for a complete and correct final pathology diagnosis. Currently the official classification of parotid gland tumors extends over more than 40 subtypes. We performed a query of the PubMed database regarding the use of molecular biology tests in performing a better characterization of the tumors in specific cases. By using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or next-generation sequencing, the team managing complex cases can offer a personalized therapeutic solution. We review the molecular differential diagnosis according to published articles in the last 5 years for many types of parotid gland tumors ranging from benign to borderline malign tumors to malign aggressive tumors. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is a distinct subtype of parotid malignancy that was the subject of a consistent number of articles. However, the molecular biology diagnosis techniques helped more in excluding the diagnosis of mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and probably retrospectively limiting the number of cases with this final diagnosis. In Romania, the molecular biology diagnosis is available only in limited research facilities and should receive more consistent funding that will make it available on a larger scale. The novelty of this scoping review is that we propose an algorithm for molecular differential diagnosis of the tumors that could be encountered in the parotid gland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer is one of the most common male malignancies worldwide. It affects middle-aged men (45–60 years) and is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Western countries. The TRUS (trans rectal ultrasound)-guided prostate biopsy has been a standard procedure in prostate cancer detection for more than thirty years, and it is recommended in male patients with an abnormal PSA (prostate-specific antigens) or abnormalities found during digital rectal examinations. During this procedure, urologists might encounter difficulties which may cause subsequent complications. This manuscript aims to present both the complications and the technical difficulties that may occur during TRUS-guided prostate biopsy, along with resolutions and solutions found in the specialized literature. The conclusions of this manuscript will note that the TRUS-guided prostate biopsy remains a solid, cost-efficient, and safe procedure with which to diagnose prostate cancer. The complications are usually self-limiting and do not require additional medical assistance. The difficulties posed by the procedure can be safely overcome if there are no other available alternatives. Open communication with the patients improves both pre- and post-procedure compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drugs and various medical substances have been used for many decades to diagnose or treat diseases. Procedures like surgery and anesthesia (either local or general) use different pharmacological products during these events. In most of the cases, the procedure is safe and the physician performs the technique without incidents. Although they are safe for use, these substances (including drugs) may have adverse effects, varying from mild ones to life-threatening reactions in a minority of patients. Artificial intelligence may be a useful tool in approximating the risk of anaphylaxis before undertaking a medical procedure. This material presents these undesirable responses produced by medical products from a multidisciplinary point of view. Moreover, we present a proof of concept for using artificial intelligence as a possible guardship against intraoperative anaphylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a topic of interest that is frequently debated in all research fields. The medical field is no exception, where several unanswered questions remain. When and how this field can benefit from AI support in daily routines are the most frequently asked questions. The present review aims to present the types of neural networks (NNs) available for development, discussing their advantages, disadvantages and how they can be applied practically. In addition, the present review summarizes how NNs (combined with various other features) have already been applied in studies in the ear nose throat research field, from assisting diagnosis to treatment management. Although the answer to this question regarding AI remains elusive, understanding the basics and types of applicable NNs can lead to future studies possibly using more than one type of NN. This approach may bypass the actual limitations in accuracy and relevance of information generated by AI. The proposed studies, the majority of which used convolutional NNs, obtained accuracies varying 70-98%, with a number of studies having the AI trained on a limited number of cases (<100 patients). The lack of standardization in AI protocols for research negatively affects data homogeneity and transparency of databases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: The evidence regarding the use of anticoagulant (AC) agents in portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is increasing and, most patients undergo chronic treatment with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or vitamin K antagonists (VKA). Nevertheless, there are no clear data about who should receive antithrombotic therapy, when to initiate it, how long and what dose should be used for this set of patients. The aim of the study was to assess the outcome of patients with cirrhosis and portal vein thrombosis who received AC therapy, in terms of thrombus regression, bleeding events and survival rates. Methods: This observational and retrospective study included 107 cirrhotic patients diagnosed with PVT in a single tertiary center between 2010-2019. 54 received low molecular weight heparin or vitamin K antagonist (AC treatment group) and 53 were untreated. All patients were periodically follow-up to assess the evolution of PVT (regression, progression, stable thrombus) and potential occurrence of bleeding events. Results: The regression of portal vein thrombosis was significantly higher in the AC treatment group (OR=2.430; 95% CI=1.11-6.167; p=0.026), more than 50% of on-treatment patients experiencing regression of the thrombus. However, bleeding events were significantly more frequent in the AC treatment group (18.5% vs. 7.5%) and the risk of bleeding was associated with thrombocytes less than 50x103/mm3 (OR=8.266; 95%CI: 2.310-39.211; p=0.002). Survival was better in the AC treatment group (68.4% vs 48.7% at 5 years and 92.7% vs 77.8% at 1 year, p=0.038) and was lower in patients that experienced bleeding events (37.22% survival at 5 years, mean time survival 44 months, p=0.008). Conclusions: In our cohort of cirrhotic patients with PVT more than 50% of patients receiving AC therapy presented regression of the thrombus; most of them obtained partial recanalization. The bleeding complication rate was higher than expected, reaching 18%. The overall mortality was lower in the treated group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to point out the diffi culties faced by the transgender community when using psychiatric or psychotherapeutic services and their impact at the social, psychological, and health state level. Our approach favours the increase in the information degree of the medical and psychotherapeutic community concerning the topic, by placing the transgender community in the current psychosocial context. In order to collect the necessary data, we applied two questionnaires to the transgender community and to the professional mental health community, respectively; the fi rst comprised 20 questions and the second comprised 11 questions, and the results were interpreted statistically. From among them, it is worth highlighting the important percentage of transgender who do not live in accordance to the desired identity and the existence of discriminating situations in the interaction with the physician or the psychologist. The conclusions of this paper refl ect the diffi culties and gaps related to the assistance of sexual minorities. We thus propose examples of practices that may allow an increase in medical and social support for the transgender community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a prominent problem in the modern society and showing an increasing prevalence, sleep disorders including frequently obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) raises the issue of the multiple health and socio-professional debilitating effect. This study aimed to assess by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire the sleep disturbances and their impact on socio-professional capacities in patients with OSA. We evaluated through the PSQI a group of 144 patients with suspected sleep disorders, whom 22 were diagnosed with OSA by polysomnography. For OSA patients, we analyzed the associated comorbidities and the characteristics of sleep disturbances and their influence on quality of socio-professional life. The main associated comorbidities to our OSA patients were the hypertension (90.90%), the type II diabetes (40.91%) and the metabolic syndrome (31.83%). We found that the most important sleep disturbances that affected the quality of life are the sleep interruptions, the waking up too early, the late falling asleep and snoring. The most significant problems induced by sleep disorders were communication problems and concentration disorders, with more than three times a week for at least 36.36% of patients. The work capacity was affected at least once a month in 77,27% of OSA patients, 40,91% reported at least one episode per week. Based on the results of PSQI and the characteristics of clinical OSA assessment, we can conclude that the patients with OSA present an impaired quality of socio-professional life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND. Lymph node tuberculosis is a pathology with an increasing incidence and prevalence in middle income countries. MATERIAL AND METHODS. We present a series of 4 cases with cervical lymph node tuberculosis. We review current principles of diagnosis and treatment from the perspective of the ENT surgeon in a tertiary university clinic. RESULTS. In each case we underline diagnosis difficulties and treatment options. These cases presented management difficulties due to associated morbidities. All cases underwent surgical excision of the afflicted lymph nodes with subsequent microscopic confirmation of tuberculosis. We illustrate key concepts leading to the microscopy diagnosis of lymph node tuberculosis. CONCLUSION. There are various surgical incidents and accidents that the young surgeon must be aware of when approaching neck tuberculous lymph nodes. Further referral of the patient for long-term tuberculosis treatment is mandatory. All patients were supervised for a minimum of 1 year after the initial diagnosis and treatment with no sign of recurrence. A close cooperation between the ENT surgeon, the infectious disease specialist and the pathologist is the key to an optimum approach to lymph node tuberculosis at the head and neck level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a new constructive solution for a rotating pump that contains two profiled rotors; each rotor has two pistons that may be triangular or curvilinear (oval). The area difference of the two pistons in a cross section is calculated; there is a difference in area which at each piston rotation, will reduce the flow rate circulated by the curved pistons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a more efficient oxygenation of free surface stationary waters, the air bubble emitted by a fine bubble generator must describe a trajectory which should be as long as possible. This purpose can be achieved by moving the fine bubble generator through water. In the paper there are determined the equations of motions and trajectory of the air bubble in stationary (still) waters. The paper aims to establish the equation of such a trajectory and the manner in which the speed of the moving generator influences the trajectory of the air bubble displacing itself through water. Using a mobile fine bubble generator we obtained a better water oxygenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: This study's aim was to evaluate the prevalence of obesity and new cases of diabetes in Roma population compared to ethnic Romanian Caucasians from Călăraşi County in the south part of Romania. Material and Methods: The population included in this study is part of a larger project that aims to evaluate the prevalence of obesity, prediabetes and diabetes in the Roma population from Călăraşi County. So far we have included 344 people: 180 Roma (119 female/61 male), and 164 non-Roma (108 female/56 male) aged between 18 and 85. Results: In Roma population, the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity was 4.4% (n=8), 37.2% (n=67), 26.7% (n=48) and 31.7% (n=57) respectively. In Romanian Caucasians, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 37.2% (n=61) and 32.3% (n=53) respectively. Diabetes was diagnosed in 14.6% (n=24) of Romanian Caucasians and in 11.7% (n=21) of Roma population. Risk factors for obesity in Roma population were: lower socio-educational level, smoking, physical inactivity (active less than 30 min/day). Conclusions: High prevalence of overweight (26.7%), obesity (31.7%) and new cases of diabetes (11.7%) among the Roma population in the south part of Romania, Calarasi County was an important finding of our study. We observed a negative effect of lifestyle behaviours on health-related outcomes: smoking, sedentariness, lower socio-educational level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND. Ultrasonography has been used in rhinology for diagnosing trauma lesions (fractures, hemosinus), second opinion in tumoral pathology, screening for sinusitis, but on a small scale and with future prospects of cost efficiency. OBJECTIVE. We hope to grow awareness of the possible use of ultrasound in screening for nasal and paranasal sinuses pathology at the level of ENT emergency departments. MATERIAL AND METHODS. We describe the technique for ultrasound examination of this region, emphasizing the need for a profound anatomical knowledge characteristic for ENT specialists. Any specialist having access to an ultrasound machine is encouraged to experiment with this imaging procedure. Two cases benefited from the use of ultrasonography in order to receive a better management and a swift treatment. One case presented with a maxillary sinus tumor and another with a paranasal tumor neighbouring the orbit. CONCLUSION. Ultrasonography of nasal and paranasal sinuses permits serial examination without irradiating the patient; it could be implemented as an addition to FAST-like protocols at the level of emergency departments in order to screen for occult head and neck pathology prior to conventional radiology and CT imaging and thus reducing costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present paper is to offer a critical examination of the epistemological foundations of rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). Taking the tension between the basic presupposition between REBT and the ABC cognitive model constituting its core as its cue, the paper focuses on the causal relation between cognition and emotion and tries to argue that, at closer inspection, neither the theoretical, nor the experimental reasons adduced in favor of the idea of a determining role of cognition in the appearance of mental disturbance actually hold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims. Insulin resistance is documented in type 1 diabetes and it has been associated with chronic complications. Diabetic nephropathy is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this article is to quantify insulin resistance in type 1 diabetes subjects according to the presence or absence of advanced renal disease. A secondary objective was to study the possible association between insulin resistance and advanced renal disease. Material and Methods. This was a cross-sectional study that included 167 type 1 diabetes patients. Insulin resistance was determined using the eGDR (estimated glucose disposal rate) formula. The association between eGDR and diabetic nephropathy was assessed in uni and multivariate models using stepwise logistic regression analysis of variables. The contribution of individual predictors in the final regression model was examined using Wald statistic. Results. Significantly lower eGDR's values were observed in patients with nephropathy: 5 vs. 7.3 (p<0.001). In univariate analysis eGDR was significantly associated with diabetic nephropathy (p<0.001). eGDR variable was retained in the final model of stepwise logistic regression (p<0.001) and showed the strongest association with diabetic nephropathy (Wald = 30.4). Conclusions. In type 1 diabetes patients insulin resistance was the most important independent risk factor associated with advanced renal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increased pressure on ENT departments has evolved as head and neck pathology is showing a higher incidence and prevalence. Therefore, the ENT specialist should develop good skills in ultrasonographic examination of patients with head and neck masses. The aim of this paper is to enable the ENT specialist to identify anatomical landmarks on ultrasonographic images in order to expedite the diagnosis with a higher degree of certainty. We describe the steps for a proper ultrasound examination of the patient. We illustrate the following anatomical areas: submandibular gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, oropharinx, larynx, parotid glands, etc. Moreover we emphasize the differential diagnosis that should be taken into account when examining pathology in these regions. Ultrasonographic examination of head and neck pathology is cost efficient, non irradiating and permits fast follow up with serial examination of the lesions. Furthermore one can perform an initial TNM staging of the case prior to other expensive imaging studies such as CT and MRI. We hope to raise the awareness of fellow ENT specialists in performing ultrasonography as future developments such as elastography and CEUS will increase the specificity and sensitivity of this diagnostic method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background and Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine discriminating values of proinsulin (FPP), proinsulin to insulin ratio (PIR), proinsulin to C-peptide ratio (PCPR) and Homeostasis model of assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) for the metabolic syndrome (MetS) as well as discovering sex-specific cutoff points of these parameters in the Romanian population. Material and Methods: We analyzed data from 224 patients. Circulating levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting plasma insulin (FPI), FPP, fasting plasma C-peptide, HbA1c, and lipid profile were measured. Results: Among the 224 patients (87 males) MetS was diagnosed in 97 patients (43.3%) according to International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. After stratification by gender, 43 men (49.4%) and 54 women (39.4%) had MetS. There were statistically significant differences between sexes for body mass index (BMI), % body fat, FPG, FPP, PIR, PCPR (all p<0.05). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, only age, BMI, FPP, and HOMA-IR were the independent factors associated with the presence of MetS. Conclusions: The present study showed that FPP and HOMA-IR were the best predictors for MetS in this sample of the Romanian population. Our results suggest that, regardless of gender, HOMA-IR and FPP could be the preferred parameters for predicting MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beginning with the second decade of the last century, after a fierce critique of W. Dilthey and the Historical School's epistemological approach, philosophical hermeneutics has assumed the position of "official" philosophy of history of our times. In the present paper we would like to show that in spite of this position philosophical hermeneutics proves nevertheless incapable to answer one of the two basic questions confronting any philosophy of history whatsoever, namely "How is history to be known?," making historical science problematic. For if the being of history really is tradition as philosophical hermeneutics argues, and if the essence of tradition is language then, on the one hand, the very stability of historical meaning presupposed by any epistemological process will always be displaced by the play of what Derrida calls "difference". And, on the other hand, even if historical meaning were stable enough so as to be known, it could not be grasped because, we will try to argue, the process of understanding as philosophical hermeneutics describes it is always permeated by misunderstanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper endeavors to trace the sketch of a possible epistemology of the human sciences. In this sense it begins with the determination of the object of knowledge in the human sciences through a careful examination of the reality of history and of the human world. Then, considering the peculiarity of the domain of the human sciences the paper proceeds to show that their object of knowledge is best understood as "event" in the sense of Gilles Deleuze and Alain Badiou. And, in the end, it circumscribes two modes of knowledge of this object of the human sciences understood as event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has been a subject of controversy in orthopedics field. Our objective was to assess the efficiency of PRP therapy for patients who have suffered grade 2 meniscal lesions and grade 2 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) lesions, graded by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A retrospective observational study was conducted, which included 72 young recreational athletes who had been diagnosed with grade 2 meniscal injury, graded using MRI, that benefited from PRP therapy as an enhancement of the primary treatment, after cast immobilization. The Lysholm score, the pain intensity and the resuming of the physical activity before the PRP treatment and one month after were analyzed. Our study revealed that patients had an improved subjective perception of pain after PRP therapy and an improvement of the Lysholm score. Concurrently, 83.3% of patients could return to sports and daily physical activity. It can be concluded that PRP therapy is a safe, easy to manage treatment, efficient for pain relief and in resuming of sports activities for young recreational athletes who have sustained partial meniscal or ACL tears. In terms of pain relief, it appears that the PRP therapy could be more efficient for young patients with ACL injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper is dedicated to some original experimental researches aiming to determine the damping coefficient for lateral displacement c in case of two rotors in console. We have described the experimental installation, the measuring chain and its components. The results of measuring in air and water are also covered in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the experimental determination in various operating modes of noise directivity at household air conditioning installations. To conduct the experimental study a measurement stand was built inside the anechoic chamber where the equipment under study was fitted. To separate the main sources of noise a partition wall was built between inner and outer split unit having also a role in the transmissibility analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with the philosophical styles of the hermeneutic project and deconstruction and tries to answer the question whether there really is, as Derrida argues, a fundamental difference, even an opposition between them. In this sense, taking the questions Derrida addressed Gadamer in their famous Paris encounter in 1981 as a clue, the author retraces the fundamental articulations of deconstruction, descending from Derrida?s own description of the idea to his actual deconstructive practice, and shows that the presupposition Derrida takes as separating the hermeneutic project from deconstruction is actually one these two share in common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper aims to bring to light the relevance of Wittgenstein's thought for philosophical hermeneutics. In this sense it offers a thorough discussion of the Austrian philosopher's understanding of the concept of translation through a detailed examination of its development from its first formulation in the context of the picture theory of meaning in the Tractatus to its reformulation as "language game" and "form of life" within the use theory put forth in Philosophical Investigations. The paper argues that the skepticism towards the history of everyday language implied by Wittgenstein's understanding of translation could be taken as an important step forward in the development of a critical dimension of philosophical hermeneutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is one of the major pathologies of modern life, with multiple etiologies intertwining: the increase in life expectancy, facial and dental changes, metabolic syndrome, and others. The current diagnosis is based on sleep studies, flexible endoscopy, imaging studies and a complete differential diagnosis from other possible pathologies. We present a retrospective study of 80 cases with OSA managed in 2019 prior to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed various demographic, anthropometric and metabolic data recorded in our study group. Some of the results, such as high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, were consistent with worldwide literature. However, regarding the anthropometric data, we underline a general decrease in height in the Romanian population. In addition, demographic data have changed in the last decade due to the work immigration in the European Union. This data will be used in a future analysis for comparison with variables recorded from cases with OSA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Current cases with OSA are not a priority for healthcare systems, and patients avoid referral to a specialist as much as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are numerous types of sinusitis caused by fungal strains, some of which already colonize the nasal cavity. Mild forms present fungus balls growing inside a preexisting sinus cavity. The invasive type ranges from chronic manifestations to acute aggravated episodes. The latter scenario is encountered in cases with reduced immune responses, such as patients with diabetes, individuals receiving any form of transplant, AIDS cases and chemotherapy patients. Without the control of immunosuppression, the infection is aggravated and extends to the orbit and inside the skull base, regardless of the prompt surgical and medical treatment. This is the most common pathogenic fungus on the nasal sinuses level. It can occasionally enter the sinus cavity during dental procedures. The pathogenesis is enhanced by anaerobic conditions in poorly ventilated sinus cavities. Rhinosinusal aspergilloma has a slow, insidious evolution over months and even years. Our experience revealed the presence of both a dental problem and previous self-administered antibiotic regimens in almost every case. The initial symptoms are common with sinusitis of dental origin, but aspergilloma should be considered when a patient with a competent immune system does not respond to standard antibiotic treatment. The final diagnosis of rhinosinusal aspergilloma is conducted on a pathology sample with silver staining. The bacteriology exam of the sinus secretion rarely reveals a fungus infection; however, as revealed in our clinical experience, there may be coinfection with other multidrug-resistant bacteria. Surgical treatment must establish a wide exposure of the sinus cavity and correct drainage regardless of the external, combined or endoscopic approach. Early diagnosis and emergency surgical debridement along with administering systemic antifungal compounds in some cases represent the key to the successful treatment of invasive aspergilloma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously, inguinal hernia surgery was based exclusively on repairing the abdominal wall defects using the patient's own tissues, which were put in contact with and tensioned to recalibrate the natural orifices. At present, inguinal hernia surgery is based almost solely on mounting an allograft, which has the role of strengthening the weakened groin region that allowed the herniation. This modern method of operation on inguinal hernia can be performed in a classic or laparoscopic manner. The mesh is made of polypropylene, which is a polymer of cyclic hydrocarbons. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness, biocompatibility, as well as the immediate and long-term complications in textile allografts used in open surgery of inguinal hernia repair. Another aim was to demonstrate once again the superiority of low-weight meshes with large pores by decreasing the number of complications caused by the synthetic material used, but also by a decrease in the tension on the tissues to which it was fixed. The present study included 255 cases submitted to inguinal hernia surgery. Only 1.5% required immediate reintervention before discharge to evacuate hematoma. The short duration of hospitalization, the quality-price ratio, the good postoperative results, as well as the rapid socio-professional reintegration, render the use of polypropylene mesh in inguinal hernia surgery very attractive for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horton's arteritis is found in the literature under various names, such as temporal arteritis, Horton's disease senile arteritis, granulomatous arteritis or giant cell arteritis (GCA). The pathogenic mechanism is the result of an inflammatory cascade triggered by a still unknown factor that causes dendritic cells in vessels to recruit T cells and macrophages, which form granulomatous infiltrates. The clinical picture consists of a daily headache with temporal localization, with moderate to severe intensity, unilateral or bilateral, with a history of months, years. Other changes may include pain in the cheek or tongue during chewing (claudication), weight loss, generalized fatigue, low-grade fever, and frequent pain in the limbs, in the context of coexisting rheumatic polymyalgia. Visual symptoms represent a special category, involving blurred vision, scotomas, and even sudden blindness. Histopathological examination of the temporal artery biopsy reveals focal thickening of the intima, with interruption of the lamina propria, with transmural inflammatory infiltrates, sometimes with multinucleated giant cells. In this article, we aim to review the role of temporal artery resection in the diagnosis of Horton's arteritis, but we also discuss the hypothesis of a potential therapeutic benefit of this procedure. However, there are also clinical situations in which there has been a considerable improvement in clinical symptoms and especially in vision deficit, with the improvement of the visual field after surgery performed for biopsy. It is difficult to estimate the influence of temporal artery resection alone, given that most patients also have concomitant cortisone treatment. However, in some cases, the rapid improvement of symptoms immediately after surgery, with the improvement of visual acuity and visual field, along with the disappearance of the headaches, can create the premises for future studies on a therapeutic contribution of temporal artery resection in GCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Solanaceae family, including, among other, eggplants, represents the sixth most widely cultivated crops around the globe. We review the current data regarding allergies to Solanum melongena (eggplants), generating symptoms that range from gastrointestinal to respiratory allergic reactions. Currently, there are more than 4 mechanisms and molecules presumably involved in triggering allergic reactions to Solanum melongena: The lipid transfer protein (LTP) pathway, the profilin pathway, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) mechanism and other molecules. Allergies may be triggered both by pollen respiratory reactions and fruit intake. There is also an important cross-reactivity mechanism revealed by recent studies. Our literature review revealed many case series studies, some with in-depth molecular analysis of the triggering mechanism. However, wide population studies are still scarce. Current geographical distribution of the crops and population migrations should enhance the awareness of allergy and immunology specialists, ENT specialists, emergency physicians and pediatricians to the need for proper routine laboratory testing for possible Solanum allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longitudinal studies have indicated an association between thyroid function and insulin resistance (IR) or a neutral relationship. Both the lowest tertile of free thyroxine (fT4) and the highest tertile of free triiodothyronine (fT3) were found to be associated with IR in cross-sectional studies. The aim of the present study was to analyze the association between IR and subclinical hypothyroidism in a female adult population from Bucharest, Romania. This is a retrospective pilot case-control study that included female patients examined by two endocrinologists and a diabetologist in an outpatient clinic. The retrospective follow-up had a one-year duration and included the evaluation of thyroid function tests and IR indices based on fasting insulinemia and C-peptide. The study included 176 women, 91 with subclinical hypothyroidism, with a median age of 60±17 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 27.79±4.76 kg/m2. The majority of the population (50%) was diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis, and 17.05% with goitre. The univariate logistic regression using hypothyroidism as the explaining variable found no evidence of a significant relationship between a decreased thyroid function and IR (OR 1.32; P=0.36). Metabolic syndrome was probably the most important determinant of IR in the population group studied. Thus, it was not the thyroid function per se, but the coexistence of other elements of this syndrome that prevailed in determining IR. Advantages to the study are the design that permitted evaluation of IR and the thyroid function at different moments in time as well as the uniformity of the blood tests. The multivariate analyses were adjusted for age, lipid profile and treatment; however, one limiting factor was the absence of other hormonal blood tests. In summary, there was no association between the thyroid function tests (TSH, fT4) and IR indices in adult Romanian women in a case-control study with one-year retrospective follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]