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Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) is a prevalent neurological condition that can lead to persistent cognitive impairments, disrupting memory, attention, and executive function. In this study, we explore the mechanisms of cognitive decline in mTBI through the lens of Markov blankets--a theoretical framework that delineates the statistical boundary between the brain's internal and external states. By simulating the impact of mTBI on sensory, active, internal, and external states, we demonstrate how disruptions to the Markov blanket structure contribute to impairments in predictive coding and cognitive processing. Our simulation introduces noise and connectivity reductions that mimic the neurometabolic and synaptic changes following mTBI, revealing delayed sensory processing, impaired motor function, and cognitive instability. These findings highlight the importance of Markov blankets in maintaining cognitive integrity and offer novel insights into the pathophysiology of post-concussion syndrome. Understanding how mTBI disrupts the brain's functional architecture through Markov blanket disturbances may inform more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive decline is one of the most important challenges related to the aging process, due to its important impact on individuals. Several studies have reported that physical exercise with a specific intensity and frequency is beneficial for maintaining cognitive health in the ageing population. The present study investigated the impact of general physical exercise on cognitive health in the older population in Romania. The study involved 60 individuals (60% male, 40% female), with a mean age of 60.78 years (SD = 2.97). The Health Interview Survey and The Minnesota Heart Survey assessed exercise frequency and intensity, while the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) determined mild cognitive impairment (MCI) levels. The results of the statistical analysis showed that high-intensity physical exercise at a frequency of three to four times a week at the age of 40–50 years is recommended in order to significantly reduce cognitive decline. In addition, for the age of 60 years old, the results established that engaging in physical activities of a moderate intensity with a frequency of 2–3 times per month is sufficient to maintain healthy cognition. The findings suggest that exercise can serve as a behavioral intervention to mitigate cognitive dysfunction and complement past research on its cognitive health advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges in managing neurological conditions, particularly among athletes. This paper explores the intersection of post-COVID-19 neurological syndrome (PCNS/PASC) and post-concussion syndrome (PCS), focusing on their implications in sports medicine. Our analysis covers the symptomatology, pathophysiology, and management strategies for PCNS/PASC and PPCS, with special attention paid to the unique challenges faced by athletes recovering from these conditions, including the risk of symptom exacerbation and prolonged recovery. Key findings reveal that both PCNS/PASC and PPCS present with overlapping symptoms such as cognitive difficulties, exercise intolerance, and mental health issues, but differ in specific manifestations like anosmia and ageusia, unique to COVID-19. Pathophysiological analysis reveals similarities in blood–brain barrier disruption (BBB) but differences in the extent of immune activation. Management strategies emphasize a gradual increase in physical activity, close symptom monitoring, and psychological support, with a tailored approach for athletes. Specific interventions include progressive aerobic exercises, resistance training, and cognitive rehabilitation. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of integrating neurology, psychiatry, physical therapy, and sports medicine to develop comprehensive care strategies. Our findings underscore the dual challenge of COVID-19 and concussion in athletes, necessitating a nuanced, interdisciplinary approach to effective management. Future research should focus on the long-term neurological effects of both conditions and optimizing treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for advancing the management of athletes affected by these overlapping conditions and ensuring their safe return to sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional neurological disorder (FND), formerly called conversion disorder, is a condition characterized by neurological symptoms that lack an identifiable organic purpose. These signs, which can consist of motor, sensory, or cognitive disturbances, are not deliberately produced and often vary in severity. Its diagnosis is predicated on clinical evaluation and the exclusion of other medical or psychiatric situations. Its treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary technique addressing each of the neurological symptoms and underlying psychological factors via a mixture of medical management, psychotherapy, and supportive interventions. Recent advances in neuroimaging and a deeper exploration of its epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation have shed new light on this disorder. This paper synthesizes the current knowledge on FND, focusing on its epidemiology and underlying mechanisms, neuroimaging insights, and the differentiation of FND from feigning or malingering. This review highlights the phenotypic heterogeneity of FND and the diagnostic challenges it presents. It also discusses the significant role of neuroimaging in unraveling the complex neural underpinnings of FND and its potential in predicting treatment response. This paper underscores the importance of a nuanced understanding of FND in informing clinical practice and guiding future research. With advancements in neuroimaging techniques and growing recognition of the disorder's multifaceted nature, the paper suggests a promising trajectory toward more effective, personalized treatment strategies and a better overall understanding of the disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, discusses the antioxidant effects of medicinal plants in oro-dental medicine. It explores the potential of bioactive compounds extracted from plants to reduce the risk of oro-dental pathologies such as periodontitis and oral cancer. The article emphasizes the importance of further research to determine the effectiveness of these compounds in vivo. It also highlights the role of a balanced lifestyle and healthy diet in preventing and reducing the risk of pathologies associated with oxidative stress. The document provides a table of medicinal plants known for their antioxidant effects and discusses their potential use in the treatment of oral diseases. It also includes references related to the antioxidant properties of medicinal plants and their potential applications in healthcare. [Extracted from the article]

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) accounts for most TBI cases, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite its high incidence, mTBI pathophysiology remains largely unknown. Recent studies have shown that the inflammatory response is activated early after mTBI and can persist for several weeks or months. However, limited evidence on the utility of inflammatory biomarkers as predictors of clinical outcomes in mTBI has been previously provided. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge on the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of mTBI and the potential of some inflammatory biomolecules as biomarkers of mTBI. In this regard, eight studies comprising 1184 individuals were selected. Thus, it was shown that the increase in IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β plasma levels could be implicated in the development of early post-concussion symptoms. On the other hand, the persistence of the increased plasmatic concentrations of IL-10 and IL-8 for as long as six months following the brain injury event could suggest chronic inflammation leading to neuroinflammation and late or persistent symptoms. In this context, our findings showed that inflammatory biomarkers could be relevant in diagnosing or predicting recovery or long-term outcomes of mTBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alongside their long-term effects, post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) are significant public health concerns. Currently, there is a lack of reliable biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring mTBI and PCS. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles secreted by cells that have recently emerged as a potential source of biomarkers for mTBI and PCS due to their ability to cross the blood–brain barrier and reflect the pathophysiology of brain injury. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of salivary exosomal biomarkers in mTBI and PCS. Methods: A systematic review using the PRISMA guidelines was conducted, and studies were selected based on their relevance to the topic. Results: The analyzed studies have shown that exosomal tau, phosphorylated tau (p-tau), amyloid beta (Aβ), and microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential biomarkers for mTBI and PCS. Specifically, elevated levels of exosomal tau and p-tau have been associated with mTBI and PCS as well as repetitive mTBI. Dysregulated exosomal miRNAs have also been observed in individuals with mTBI and PCS. Additionally, exosomal Prion cellular protein (PRPc), coagulation factor XIII (XIIIa), synaptogyrin-3, IL-6, and aquaporins have been identified as promising biomarkers for mTBI and PCS. Conclusion: Salivary exosomal biomarkers have the potential to serve as non-invasive and easily accessible diagnostic and prognostic tools for mTBI and PCS. Further studies are needed to validate these biomarkers and develop standardized protocols for their use in clinical settings. Salivary exosomal biomarkers can improve the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of mTBI and PCS, leading to improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the high percentages of dental pathologies registered in humans in recent decades, large-scale studies are needed to innovate the field of dentistry for future generations. An element of novelty that could help in the prophylaxis and treatment of dental diseases is phytotherapy and, implicitly, the use of the active principles present in the composition of medicinal plants for combating pathogens. The kingdom of Plantae could also offer the saving answer to the fight against antibiotic resistance, as many phytocompounds have known antibacterial effects, high efficiency and low toxicity upon the human body, as well as antitumoral effects. Elaboration of a database providing information on the use of the active principles present in medicinal plants could facilitate the extension of their use in the field of oro-dental medicine and, at the same time, of the knowledge and indexation of the information thus obtained, leading to the constant evolution of this field of scientific interest. The primary objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive database encompassing the utilization of medicinal plants in Oro-Dental Medicine, with particular focus on their application in the prevention and treatment of dental diseases. The scope encompasses the identification and analysis of active phytochemicals in these plants and their therapeutic potential against common oral pathogens. Significant findings include identification of several plant species with proven efficacy in dental care and their potential role in combating antibiotic resistance. Our conclusions advocate for the integration of phytotherapy in dental medicine and highlight the critical role of multidisciplinary approaches in dental healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Low-grade glioma is characterized by slow growth, infiltrative pattern through white matter tracts and progression to a malignant tumour type. The traditional classification is newly replaced by molecular stratification. This reorganisation gathers glioma with similar prognosis and treatment protocols. The preferential location of that tumour in eloquent areas constituted, over time, a real challenge regarding the best surgical approach. Because of the high risk of postoperative neurological deficits initially a more conservative management was adopted. Once with the development of preoperative and intraoperative functional assessment techniques, a higher degree of resection was possible in the limits of corticosubcortical eloquence, being well known that this is a statistically significant factor for survival. We present in this paper the natural evolution of low-grade glioma, their new molecular classification, prognostic factors and the various approach proposed for eloquent ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction.Infection with Echinococcus granulosus is a disease known since around 1550 BC. In 1786, Batsch was the first to discover the etiological agent of the disease. The main intra-abdominal location of the hydatid cyst is the liver. The way of transmission of the disease leads to a possible infection of several members of a family. Materials and methods. In 2014, patient R.M. was admitted in the Surgery Clinic of Colentina Hospital, being diagnosed with liver hydatid cyst. Lagrot operation was performed, followed, postoperatively, by ERCP with endoscopic sphincterotomy. Investigating patient's heredo-collateral antecedents, we discovered that 3 of her 4 children had been diagnosed and treated for liver hydatid cyst. In the fourth child and in patient's husband, the absence of the disease was documented. Results and disscusion. Both the patient treated in Colentina Hospital and her children had a favorable post-treatment evolution, as confirmed by the latest evaluation performed in 2015. Conclusions. Infection with Echinococcus granulosus in one of the family members raises suspicion of affection in the other members too, which justifies a thorough anamnesis and paraclinic evaluation in order to identify all possible cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]