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Hyponatremia is defined by a level of Na in serum below or equal to 136 mEq/L while in hepatic cirrhosis it is classically considered as relevant only at a level of Na below 130 mEq/L.

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is defined as renal failure that occurs in the presence of severe acute or chronic liver disease in the absence of underlying renal pathology. Due to the functional nature of the disease and the absence of specific diagnostic markers, HRS diagnosis is determined based on positive criteria associated with excluding other causes of renal failure in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites. Differentiation from other types of acute or chronic renal disease is extremely difficult and therapeutic options are limited, prophylactic behavior is most appropriate in patients with severe hepatic disease and risk factors for the installation of hepatorenal syndrome.

Urosepsis is a life-threatening medical condition due to a systemic infection that originates in the urinary tract. Early diagnosis and treatment of urosepsis are critical to reducing mortality rates and preventing complications. Our study was aimed at identifying a fast and reliable method for early urosepsis diagnosis and severity assessment by combining prognostic scores such as SOFA and NEWS with ultrasound examination and serum markers PCT and NLR.

Identification of sentinel lymph node (SLN) in colon cancer is very important in order to increase the accuracy of lymph node staging. The number of examined lymph nodes represents a significant predictor of survival. This study aims to show the importance of SLN histological and immunohistochemical examination in adjuvant oncological treatment. The study includes 23 patients with colon cancer (44% women and 56% men) who came in our clinic for surgical intervention. In all cases, the SLN was identified and prepared for histological examination. In 13 of the cases, micrometastases were found on haematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, there were 5 cases with positive immunohistochemistry using antibodies anti-p53, anti-VEGF-C, anti-CD34, and 5 cases with SLN negative both for HE and immunohistochemistry. Altogether we had a detection rate of 92%, an accuracy of 78,2%, a sensitivity of 90%, a false negative rate of 10% and a negative predictive value of 71,4%, good values according to the literature. Four (17,3%) patients had micrometastases exclusively in the sentinel lymph node, after performing additional histological examination, using multilevel section and immunohistochemistry. After assessing the SNL on our patients, we concluded that it is a reproducible practice for lymph node analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) represents the most severe and common infectious complication in patients suffering from liver cirrhosis. The objectives of the study were the evaluation of the risk factors responsible for the occurrence of the spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in a group of patients suffering from liver cirrhosis, the identification of the bacterial spectrum and assessing the response to antibiotic therapy. Material and method - The studied group included 64 patients suffering from liver cirrhosis, with an episode of SBP, who were admitted to the IInd Medical Clinic of the County Hospital of Craiova, within a period of 24 months. The control group included 61 patients with liver cirrhosis with an episode of decompensation of liver disease. The diagnosis of liver cirrhosis was established by using clinical, biological and imagistic criteria, and the SBP's diagnosis was based on cytological and bacteriological analysis of the ascites fluid. Patients suffering from hepatocellular carcinoma, portal vein thrombosis and other infectious conditions were excluded. The anamnesis, the duration of the disease, the alcohol intake, the complete clinical examination, the clinical, biological and imagistic evaluation were monitored. Results and conclusions - The most frequent etiology of SBP is represented in 67% of the cases by Gram negative germs, and thus, the antibiotic therapy will be orientated against this etiological segment. In what antibiotic sensitivity is concerned, most of the germs were sensitive to third generation cephalosporins, quinolones, carbapenems and vancomycin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of bakery products is a complex system because it encompasses several mandatory conditions: the amount of food harmlessness, the sensory quality and the presentation of the product. Due to continuous trend of increasing quality demands appeared and maintaining the demands in good features and economic performance appeared due to the continuous trend of increasing quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Shared decision making (SDM) is becoming more and more important for the patient-physician interaction. There has not been a study in Romania evaluating patients’ point of view in the SDM process yet. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the psychometric parameters of the translated Romanian version of SDM-Q-9.

Due to a high-energy consumption per unit in the milling industry, it is necessary to make a rigorous study on the grinding process and implicit on the methods for achieving the grist. The main goal of researchers in recent decades has been finding ways to reduce this energy consumption. In order to reduce energy consumption studies were made researches to highlight the influence of external load application rate on energy consumption in the grinding process. For this purpose, experimental research has been conducted on individual maize kernels at three different speeds 25 mm min-1, 50 mm min-1 and 100 mm min-1, maintaining constant moisture value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the effect of the added of salt in bread dough on its rheological properties and the quality of white bread. Table salt was added in a percentage varying between 0 and 2.5%, each of them being determined with the help of specific apparatus, the rheological characteristics of dough and physico-chemical indices of the bread resulting from the baking thereof. Following experimental research found that salt has a crucial role in obtaining high quality products, helping to develop loaf volume, conservation status of freshness for a long time and not least helps to improve the taste and aroma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine whether single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is involved in susceptibility for acute pancreatitis. Material and Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples collected from cases of acute pancreatitis (n=110) and normal population controls frequency matched for age and sex (n=232). iNOS - 2087A>G polymorphism was genotyped using TaqMan allelic discrimination assays. The association of the genetic polymorphism with clinical and pathological data of the patients was evaluated. Results: We have found no significant statistical association between this polymorphism and an increased risk of developing acute pancreatitis. Conclusion: In Romanian population, the risk of developing acute pancreatitis is not increased by the presence of iNOS-2087A>G polymorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of investigations on the energy consumption of individual winter wheat kernels, obtained based on uniaxial compression test. The experimental research was carried out on individual wheat grains at 10%, 12%, 14%, 16% and 18% moisture content, pursuing the energy consumption during the wheat grain compression. For each moisture content were selected 30 wheat grains and for the data analysis and interpretation of experimental research were used the average of the 30 determinations. The measurements showed significant differences regarding the energy consumption between the three moisture contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the analysis of the working process executed by the technical equipments used for grain grinding, we concluded that the main forces that are applied to grains, refer to crushing and cutting. In this paper a mathematical model was performed by means of the finite element method for the crushing process of wheat, in order to establish the forces that appear to the first cracks of the grain, and also to determine the maximum strains from the grain that is being crushed; and the deformations of the crushing direction of the grain and the energy consumption during this process. For this simulation, the mechanical structural module in 3D space of the COMSOL Multiphysics software was used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Chronic pancreatitis is morphologically characterized by ductal dysplasia, breeding grounds for the proliferation of the ductal cells, the degenerative changes in pancreatic acinar cells and fibrosis, and it is defined on the basis of the clinical, morphological and functional criteria.

Postural disorders in children and adolescents have an increasing incidence. The aim of this study was to identify the type of postural defects in school-age and preschool children, as well as the external risk factors determined by an inadequate lifestyle. The research included 134 children aged between 5 and 18 years, in whom postural defects were identified. The project involved an examination of the children's body posture, a survey of the parents to determine the children's lifestyle, blood tests, and spinal X-rays. A significant percentage (76%) of the children included in the study were underweight. The examination of postural defects in the students revealed scoliosis in 21% of the patients, kyphosis in 7.5%, and lordosis in 1.5%, while 70% of the patients presented an association between at least two postural defects. As far as risk factors are concerned, we identified the presence of rickets sequelae in 70% of the patients, the presence of pectus excavatum in 43% of the patients, genu varum in 15%, and flat foot in 12%. Additionally, 90% of the children had an incorrect posture at the desk, while 42% incorrectly carried their backpack on one shoulder only. In terms of diet quality, associations between an inadequate diet and postural disorders were found for kyphosis, scoliosis, and other deformities. In conclusion, postural abnormalities in children have an increased incidence from an early age and are a result of the change in lifestyle in recent years, represented by sedentarism, a lack of physical activity, the excessive use of electronic devices, stress, and an inadequate diet.

This article investigates the link between Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) infection and cardiovascular and neurological disorders. Recent research suggests that H. pylori may play a role in cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke, as well as neurological diseases including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Cardiovascular Diseases: H. pylori induces endothelial dysfunction and chronic inflammation, promoting atherosclerotic plaque formation and other cardiac complications. High infection prevalence in cardiovascular patients implies that systemic inflammation from H. pylori accelerates disease progression. Eradication therapies combined with anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering treatments may reduce cardiovascular risk. Neurological Diseases: H. pylori may contribute to Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's through systemic inflammation, neuroinflammation, and autoimmune responses. Increased infection prevalence in these patients suggests bacterial involvement in disease pathogenesis. The eradication of H. pylori could reduce neuroinflammation and improve outcomes. Discussions and Future Research: Managing H. pylori infection in clinical practice could impact public health and treatment approaches. Further research is needed to clarify these relationships. Longitudinal and mechanistic studies are essential to fully understand H. pylori 's role in these conditions. Conclusions: H. pylori infection is a potential risk factor for various cardiovascular and neurological conditions. Additional research is critical for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Targeted therapies, including H. pylori eradication combined with anti-inflammatory treatments, could improve clinical outcomes. These findings highlight the need for an integrated clinical approach to include H. pylori evaluation and treatment.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurological disease that involves the degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscle activity. Most people with ALS die within 3-5 years due to respiratory failure. The current study presents the case of a 68-year-old woman diagnosed with ALS based on the subjective and objective findings from the patient's initial physiotherapy assessment and on neurophysiological tests. Physiotherapy interventions are aiming to maintain the patient's strength, balance and functional independence for as long as possible. The present case report aimed to highlight that a multidisciplinary team approach is necessary for the management of a progressive degenerative disease such as ALS., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © 2024 Marcu et al.)

Due to its variety of signs and symptoms, there have been numerous attempts to treat fibromyalgia (FM), but a cure has yet to be established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a complex kinetic therapy program and a combined physical modality program on pain and other common symptoms of FM. Patients and methods: A total of 78 female patients were included in this study; 39 subjects underwent a kinesiotherapy (KT) intervention (combining aerobic and Pilates exercises), and 39 participated in a physical modality (PM) program (including electrotherapy (TENS and low-laser therapy) and thermotherapy). Results: Regarding the parameter of pain assessment, kinesiotherapy demonstrated its superiority both during the treatment period and in the evaluation 3 months after therapy cessation. Both in terms of patient-reported pain (inter-group comparisons: p = 0.000 at T3) and the examination of tender points (inter-group comparisons: p = 0.000 at T3), as well as the algometric assessment, pain was alleviated by the two forms of applied kinetic therapy. The observed functional impairment was statistically significantly influenced ( p = 0.001) at the end of the kinetic program application, while for the perceived functional impairment, neither therapy proved superiority over the other at any point of evaluation (inter-group comparisons: p = 0.715 at T3). Regarding the influence of the emotional consequences implied by fibromyalgia, neither the forms of kinesiotherapy nor the chosen physical modalities proved superiority at any point of evaluation (HAQ anxiety inter-group comparisons: p = 0.000 at T3). In conclusion, even though kinesiotherapy had superior influences on fibromyalgia pain in the studied group, the current research lends credence to the significance of non-pharmacological therapy in managing fibromyalgia. Participants demonstrated positive advancements in subjective and objective pain assessments, as well as improvements in functional and emotional well-being.

The utilization of evolutive models and algorithms for predicting the evolution of hepatic steatosis holds immense potential benefits. These computational approaches enable the analysis of complex datasets, capturing temporal dynamics and providing personalized prognostic insights. By optimizing intervention planning and identifying critical transition points, they promise to revolutionize our approach to understanding and managing hepatic steatosis progression, ultimately leading to enhanced patient care and outcomes in clinical settings. This paradigm shift towards a more dynamic, personalized, and comprehensive approach to hepatic steatosis progression signifies a significant advancement in healthcare. The application of evolutive models and algorithms allows for a nuanced characterization of disease trajectories, facilitating tailored interventions and optimizing clinical decision-making. Furthermore, these computational tools offer a framework for integrating diverse data sources, creating a more holistic understanding of hepatic steatosis progression. In summary, the potential benefits encompass the ability to analyze complex datasets, capture temporal dynamics, provide personalized prognostic insights, optimize intervention planning, identify critical transition points, and integrate diverse data sources. The application of evolutive models and algorithms has the potential to revolutionize our understanding and management of hepatic steatosis, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes in clinical settings.

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a rare disease. There are two distinct types of AIP: AIP type 1 (AIP-1), a pancreatic manifestation of a multi-organ disease linked to immunoglobulin (Ig)G4, and AIP type 2 (AIP-2), a pancreas-specific disease unrelated to IgG4. The usual course of treatment for AIP is oral corticosteroid medication. Rituximab has also been recommended for recurrent AIP-1 in order to initiate remission and provide ongoing treatment. Immunomodulators such as azathioprine are used to keep certain patients in remission. Evaluation also takes into account a number of pharmacological alternatives, including biologic drugs like anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy, a safe and efficient second-line treatment for AIP-2 relapse or steroid dependence. Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, which are poorly tolerated due to considerable side effects, are being replaced by other biologic drugs, which may offer a beneficial therapeutic alternative., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Pădureanu et al.)

We intended to investigate the presence and medical application of serum hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) along with the already known systemic inflammatory markers and the new one's inflammatory indices, the proportion of mean corpuscular volume and lymphocytes (MCVL) and the cumulative inflammatory index (IIC), for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). We sought to establish correlations that may be present between the serum levels of HIF-1α and these inflammatory indices, as well as their relationship with disease activity and the extent of UC, which can provide us with a more precise understanding of the evolution, prognosis, and future well-being of patients. Serum samples were collected from 46 patients diagnosed with UC and 23 controls. For our assessment of the serum levels of HIF-1α, we used the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Thus, for HIF-1α we detected significantly higher values in more severe and more extensive UC. When it came to MCVL and IIC, we observed statistically significant differences between the three groups being compared (Severe, Moderate, and Mild). Our study highlighted that HIF-1α correlated much better with a disease activity score, MCVL, and IIC. With MCVL and IIC, a strong and very strong correlation had formed between them and well-known inflammation indices. By examining the ROC curves of the analyzed parameters, we recognized that TWI (accuracy of 83.70%) provides the best discrimination of patients with early forms of UC, followed by HIF-1α (73.90% accuracy), MCVL (70.90% accuracy), and PLR (70.40%). In our study, we observed that HIF-1α, MCVL, and PLR had the same sensitivity (73.33%) but HIF-1α had a much better specificity (60.87% vs. 58.70%, and 54.35%). Also, in addition to the PLR, HIF-1α and MCVL can be used as independent predictor factors in the discrimination of patients with early forms of UC.

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disease which affects the connective vascular tissue, characterized by pain accompanied by morning stiffness, predominantly of the neck muscles, hip and shoulder girdle. Usually, patients with this disease are >50 years of age and biological inflammatory syndrome is present with an increase in both the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels, aspects similar to giant cell arteritis. The aim of the present review was to depict the current pathogenic hypothesis, diagnostic and treatment approach for patients with PMR, and novelties since the development of the currently used 2012 European League Against Rheumatism and American College of Rheumatology provisional classification criteria. PMR is a prevalent disease that can occasionally prove difficult to diagnose and treat. Possibly, the most abundant type of evidence and data revealed over the past decade have been acquired through musculoskeletal imaging, with implications in diagnosis, disease monitoring and relapse, prognosis and changes with treatment. Further research on pathophysiology is required to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying processes, which will serve as the foundation for future personalized treatments. In addition, there is an increasing demand for improved diagnostic techniques, which should include a further development of various imaging modalities, in order to provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapy., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Florescu et al.)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, ~10% of the global population was officially affected, resulting in diverse changes, ranging from shopping habits to stringent hospital protocols. This article sought to provide a concise summary of relevant data concerning the interplay between COVID-19 and trauma, encompassing the entire trajectory from presentation to hospital discharge. Throughout the pandemic, there was a noticeable reduction in trauma presentations, while the ranking of injury mechanisms remained largely unchanged. To ensure essential surgical support, protocols were adjusted accordingly. Although there were some less significant changes in injury severity score, hospital length of stay, intensive care unit stay and mortality, the overall patient outcomes appeared to improve. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a decline in trauma cases and an enhancement in patient outcomes. However, regrettably, certain mechanisms of injury saw an increase in frequency. To cope with the epidemiological context, management strategies were adapted, and unutilized resources were redirected to cater to the care of COVID-19 patients., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Boldea et al.)

The aim of the present study was to determine the health-related quality of life of stroke patients and their caregivers during the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 70 patients who had been diagnosed with stroke between October 2021 and March 2022 and 70 caregivers were included in the present study. A prospective follow-up study assessing the quality of life at baseline was conducted after 3 months for both patients and their caregivers. A linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate potential associations between quality of life and assessed factors. The results revealed that age, sex, employment status, hospitalization period, type of stroke, Barthel index for activities of daily living (ADL) and discharge Modified Rankin Scale (mRS), were significant determinants of the 90-day Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). An important clinical change in the QoL score was estimated for both post-stroke patients and their caregivers. The decrease of the HRQoL of patients was statistically influenced by a higher value of ADL (P=0.014), whereas, in the case of their caregivers, the decrease of HRQoL was primarily influenced by the QoL of patients after 3 months (P=0.043). The present study identified some important key factors with direct consequences on HRQoL regarding stroke survivors and their caregivers., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Pădureanu et al.)

Acute pancreatitis is characterized as an inflammatory illness that is life-threatening and causes necrosis as well as simple edema when pancreatic enzymes are activated intraglandularly. It is not known whether severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 causes acute pancreatitis. Patients with acute pancreatitis who test positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently have biliary or alcoholic causes. It is unclear how common acute pancreatitis is in patients with COVID-19. By contrast with patients without COVID-19, however, COVID-19-positive patients with acute pancreatitis have a higher mortality as well as a higher risk of necrosis and admission to an intensive care unit. The most common cause of mortality in COVID-19-positive individuals with concurrent severe pancreatitis is acute respiratory distress syndrome. The present study discussed research on the link between COVID-19 infection and acute pancreatitis., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Pădureanu et al.)

Identifying certain serum biomarkers associated with the degree of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) activity can provide us with a more accurate view of the evolution, prognosis, and future quality of life for these patients. Our aim was to analyze the presence and clinical use of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13), along with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and well-known cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) for patients with RA. We also wanted to identify the possible correlations between MMP-13 and these serological markers, as well as their relationship with disease activity indices, quality of life, and ultrasonographic evaluation. For this purpose, we analyzed serum samples of 34 RA patients and 12 controls. In order to assess serum concentrations for MMP-13, VEGF, TNF-α, and IL-6, we used the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Our results concluded that higher levels of MMP-13, VEGF, TNF-α, and IL-6 were present in the serum of RA patients compared to controls, with statistical significance. We furthermore identified moderately positive correlations between VEGF, MMP-13, and disease activity indices, as well as with the ultrasound findings. We also observed that VEGF had the best accuracy (97.80%), for differentiating patients with moderate disease activity. According to the data obtained in our study, that although MMP-13, TNF-α and C-reactive protein (CRP) have the same sensitivity (55.56%), MMP-13 has a better specificity (86.67%) in the diagnosis of patients with DAS28 (4v) CRP values corresponding to moderate disease activity. Thus, MMP-13 can be used as a biomarker that can differentiate patients with moderate or low disease activity. VEGF and MMP-13 can be used as additional parameters, along with TNF-α and IL-6, that can provide the clinician a better picture of the inflammatory process, disease activity, and structural damage in patients with RA. Our data can certainly constitute a start point for future research and extended studies with multicenter involvement, to support the selection of individualized and accurate therapeutic management strategies for our patients.

Prostate cancer is among the most frequently diagnosed cancers and a leading cause of cancer-related death in men. Currently, the most reliable and widely used imaging test for prostate cancer diagnosis is multiparametric pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI). Modern biopsy techniques are based on the computerised merging of ultrasound and MRI images to provide better vision during the biopsy procedure (Fusion Biopsy). However, the method is expensive due to high equipment cost. Cognitive fusion of ultrasound and MRI images has recently emerged as a cheaper and easier alternative to computerised fusion. The aim of this prospective study is to perform an in-patient comparison of the systematic prostate biopsy procedure (SB) vs. cognitive fusion (CF) guided prostate biopsy method in terms of safety, ease of use, cancer detection rate and clinically significant cancer detection. We enrolled 103 patients with suspected prostate cancer that were biopsy naive, with PSA > 4 ng/dL and PIRADS score of 3, 4 or 5. All patients received a transperineal standard 12-18 cores systematic biopsy (SB) and a four-cores targeted cognitive fusion (CF) biopsy. Following the prostate biopsy, 68% of the patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer (70/103 patients). SB diagnosis rate was 62% while CF biopsy was slightly better with a 66% rate. There was a significant 20% increase in clinically significant prostate cancer detection rate for the CF compared to SB ( p < 0.05) and a significant prostate cancer risk upgrade from the low to the intermediate risk category (13%, p = 0.041). Transperineal cognitive fusion targeted prostate biopsy is a straightforward biopsy method that is easy to perform and is a safe alternative to standard systematic biopsy with improved significant cancer detection accuracy. A combined targeted and systematic approach should be used for the best diagnostic results.

In this study we investigated the relationship between vitamin D and markers of oxidative stress and apoptosis in patients with liver cirrhosis stratified according serum GGT activity. Forty-eight patients with liver cirrhosis of various aetiology were selected, among which 58% cases (n=28) diagnosed with alcoholic liver cirrhosis and 42% (n=20) with cirrhosis after hepatitis virus infection. Each group was divided into three quartiles according GGT activity. 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-(HO) vit D], markers of oxidative stress (catalase, superoxide dismutase) and apoptosis (M30) were compared. Higher levels of GGT were correlated with elevated AST, ALT and ALP values in both groups. A statistically significant difference was observed when comparing 25-(OH) vit D levels of patients suffering from ethanol-induced liver cirrhosis versus control group for all the quartiles as well as for those from the first quartile of viral-induced liver cirrhosis. For SOD, statistically significant differences were noticed between all cirrhosis subgroups and the control group. CAT values in all cirrhosis subgroups were lower than in control, but significant differences were only between Q2.2 and Q1.3 quartiles and Q2.2 and control. Correlation of 25-(OH) vit D versus SOD yields statistically significant results in ethanol-induced cirrhosis patients. M30 activity was increased in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis compared to controls and those with virus-induced cirrhosis, being correlated with the degree of GGT activity. Our results emphasized that vitamin D deficiency is associated with enhanced liver dysfunction regardless of the trigger responsible for disease onset. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency augments liver injury by promoting oxidative stress which influence the survival mechanisms of parenchymal liver cells., Competing Interests: None to declare, (Copyright © 2023, Medical University Publishing House Craiova.)

Oxidative stress involvement in liver diseases has been extensively studied. A direct assessment of the reactive species incriminated is avoided due to their short lifespan and high cost. For these reasons an inexpensive and easy to perform test for whole body oxidative stress is highly desired. This pilot study was conducted to assess the relationship between γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity and markers of oxidative stress: reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and lipid peroxidation in patients with liver cirrhosis due to chronic ethanol consumption and viral hepatitis. Forty-eight patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis and cirrhosis developed after HBV and HCV infection were included in this study.Blood GSH andGPxand serum GGT and MDAwere assayed and the results were statistically analyzed. The activity of serum GGT was significantly higher in the alcoholic group. The relationship between GGT activity, GSH and MDA levels was different between groups.A strong significant positive correlation between GGT and GSH was noticed for the patients from GGT Q3 and Q4 quartiles in the group of viral liver cirrhosis, while for alcoholics the relationship between GGT and GSH showed the trend for a negative correlation.The values of serum MDA differ significantly between groups (p<0.015); a very significant variation was observed at low levels of GGT activity (p<0.006). Our study demonstrates that the GSH antioxidant defense system is more compromisedin alcoholic cirrhosisand tends to correlate negatively with GGT. Even in its normal range GGT might be an early and sensitive marker of oxidative stress., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflict of interest to declare., (Copyright © 2022, Medical University Publishing House Craiova.)

Because of the prevalence of HCV worldwide as well as its undiagnosed population due to a lack of screening, HCV can be considered a modern pandemic disease. In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) set goals for HCV's elimination that included a 65 percent reduction in mortality and an 80 percent reduction in newly infected cases by 2030. This study is a follow-up evaluation of 80 patients who received interferon-free treatment with direct-acting agents (DAA) for chronic HCV infection between the second half of 2017 and the end of 2018. They were assessed using a FibroMax test prior to DAA administration. Two pills/day of Ombitasvir 12.5 mg/Paritaprevir 75 mg/Ritonavir 50 mg and two pills/day of Dasabuvir 250 mg were given to the patients for 8 weeks. After treatment, all 80 patients in this study achieved an SVR (sustained virologic response), and the FibroMax test was performed three years later. Our study found that successfully treating HCV infection can play a significant role in reducing fibrosis in T2DM patients. In comparison to those of ActiTest and SteatoTest, FibroMax scores showed a significantly greater reduction in T2DM patients than in treatment-naive patients.

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with increased mortality and morbidity, including cardiovascular diseases and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of this study was to assess the associations between cardiovascular risk, chronic diabetes complications and the risk of OSA in adult patients with T2DM. Methods: The study included 529 patients with T2DM in whom moderate-to-severe OSA risk was assessed using the STOP-Bang questionnaire, dividing the subjects into two groups: group 1: STOP-Bang score <5, and group 2: STOP-Bang score ≥5, respectively. In all the subjects, cardiovascular risk was assessed using the UKPDS risk engine. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0, the results being statistically significant if p value was <0.05. Results: 59% of the subjects scored ≥5 on the STOP-Bang questionnaire. We recorded statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding diabetes duration, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, albuminuria, as well as cardiovascular risk at 10 years for both coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke (p < 0.05). Furthermore, through logistic regression, adjusting for confounding factors, we demonstrated that the STOP-Bang score ≥ 5 is a risk factor for 10-year fatal and nonfatal CHD risk. Conclusions: It is extremely important to screen and diagnose OSA in patients with T2DM, in order to improve the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in these patients., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered a systemic inflammatory disease marked by polyarthritis which affects the joints symmetrically, leading to progressive damage of the bone structure and eventually joint deformity. Lung involvement is the most prevalent extra-articular feature of RA, affecting 10-60% of patients with this disease. In this review, we aim to discuss the patterns of RA interstitial lung disease (ILD), the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of ILD in RA, and also the therapeutic challenges in this particular extra-articular manifestation. The pathophysiology of RA-ILD has been linked to biomarkers such as anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), MUC5B mutation, Krebs von den Lungen 6 (KL-6), and other environmental factors such as smoking. Patients at the highest risk for RA-ILD and those most likely to advance will be identified using biomarkers. The hope is that finding biomarkers with good performance characteristics would help researchers better understand the pathophysiology of RA-ILD and, in turn, lead to the development of tailored therapeutics for this severe RA manifestation.

The aim of this paper is to present a case of COVID-19 in a newly diagnosed HIV-infected, severely immunodepressed patient with a long persistence of positive RT-PCR for RNA SARS-CoV-2. Indirect data suggests that viable virus persisted for a long time in the absence of an adequate defense of the host. Improved immunity after starting antiretroviral treatment was not associated with an increased inflammatory reaction as regarding the infection due to the coronavirus and, apparently, was the main factor to control the infection. Remdesivir used to combat the SARS-CoV-2 infection had no immediate effect on the recorded cycle-threshold.

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., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Pădureanu et al.)

Background and Objectives: HIV infection in pregnant women can be responsible for a number of consequences during pregnancy, such as: maternal anaemia, miscarriage, low birth weight, and preterm birth. The objectives of this study were to determine the maternal-foetal transmission rate of HIV among pregnant women living with HIV from Craiova Regional Centre in order to assess the risk factors for mother-to-child transmission of HIV and to identify the characteristics of newborns perinatally exposed to HIV., Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2020, including children born to HIV-positive mothers., Results: The studied group included 138 newborns and was divided into two subgroups: group A, which included 10 HIV-infected infants; and group B, which included 128 uninfected infants. The mother-to-child transmission rate was 3.5% for women to whom all prophylaxis standards were applied. We found a statistically significant correlation between the level of maternal HIV viremia and perinatal HIV transmission ( p = 0.01). Preterm birth and low birth weight were associated with perinatal transmission of the infection., Conclusions: Perinatal transmission of HIV infection during our study was associated with inconsistent application of screening for HIV infection among pregnant women, lack of antiretroviral therapy, poor adherence to treatment, and detectable HIV viral load during pregnancy.

Diabetes mellitus, known as the most widespread disease in the world, along with four other chronic diseases, involves major expenditures and significant human resources for care, thus representing a burden on any type of health care system especially due to its rapid evolution of acute and chronic complications. For the emergency department (ED), the requirements of patients with acute complications of diabetes, determine expenses which are three times higher than those for non-diabetic patients and their hospitalizations are four times more frequent. The acute complications for which patients with diabetes most frequently require the ED are hypoglycemic, hyperosmolar, or ketoacidosis coma as well as alterations of the general condition that is typical of hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state and new-onset hyperglycemia. Hypoglycemia and the Somogyi phenomenon are the most common complications of type 1 diabetes but they can also occur in patients with type 2 diabetes who are treated with insulin through its overdose. DKA can occur in type 1 and 2 diabetes either by administering inadequate doses of insulin or due to the existence of precipitating factors such as stress, acute myocardial infarction, infections, sepsis, and/or gastrointestinal bleeding. Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic status is the most common complication in patients with type 2 diabetes and DKA. Treating the acute complications of diabetes in the ED involves, besides taking immediate measures to assess and maintain vital functions, monitoring patients, assessing blood sugar, electrolytes, urea, creatinine, and bicarbonate, and applying appropriate immediate therapeutic measures for each type of acute diabetes complication., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Forțofoiu et al.)

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is recognized as a leading cause of death worldwide. Obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance (IR), interconnected pathological conditions constitute risk factors that are closely associated with CVD. The aim of the present study was to highlight the association of IR with cardiovascular risk (CVR). The epidemiological, cross-sectional, non-interventional study was conducted over 12 months (2019-2020) within a research grant and included a sample of 400 subjects divided into 2 subgroups: group 1 (control) subjects did not have diabetes (n=200) and group 2 had type 2 diabetes (T2DM) (n=200). The Framingham risk score (FRS) was calculated according to the 2008 general CVD risk model from the Framingham Heart Study. Subsequent to a correlation of the value of homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) with the degree of CVR, the IR was higher in both groups, and CVR also increased. After being quantified by the Spearman correlation coefficient, the correlation in group 2 was higher at 0.625 compared to group 1 where this coefficient had a value of 0.440. A high FRS (FRS of 20%) was significantly associated with IR. The results therefore show that HOMA-IR is an independent risk factor for high FRS. New therapies focused on decreasing IR may contribute to decreased CVD., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Vladu et al.)

Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency induced by the body's extreme response to an infection. Despite well-defined and constantly updated criteria for diagnosing sepsis, it is still underdiagnosed worldwide. Among various markers studied over time, the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) recently emerged as a good marker to predict sepsis severity. Our study was a single-center prospective observational study performed in our ICU and included 114 patients admitted for sepsis or septic shock. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is easy to perform, CBC being one of the standard blood tests routinely performed upon admission for all ICU patients. We found that NLR was increased in all patients with sepsis and significantly raised in those with septic shock. NLR correlates significantly with sepsis severity evaluated by the SOFA score (R = 0.65) and also with extensively studied sepsis prognosis marker presepsin (R = 0.56). Additionally, NLR showed good sensitivity (47%) and specificity (78%) with AUC = 0.631 ( p < 0.05). NLR is less expensive and easier to perform compared with other specific markers and may potentially become a good alternate option for evaluation of sepsis severity. Larger studies are needed in the future to demonstrate the prognosis value of NLR.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multisystem disease, and it is associated with numerous extra-hepatic manifestations or additional co-occurring diseases. The aim of the present review was the identification and management of the hematologic manifestations of NAFLD. One of the triggers is considered to be iron abnormalities. Increased ferritin levels, hepatic iron deposits and iron overload are associated with NAFLD. The iron overload degree and severity are associated with the level of liver fibrosis and with the risk for hepatocellular carcinoma. Excess iron deposits refers to the dysmetabolic iron overload syndrome (DIOS) and it is characterized by steatosis associated with moderate tissue iron deposition and increased levels of serum ferritin, while the serum transferrin saturation was normal. Further prospective studies are necessary to determine whether NAFLD has an independent risk for hematologic symptoms, besides the known risk factors. Future studies are also needed in order to assess the increasing impact of NAFLD on the micro- and macro-vascular complications of this systemic disease., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Pădureanu et al.)

Background and Objectives : Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) represents one of the most common complications during pregnancy, being associated with numerous maternal and neonatal complications. The study aimed to analyze maternal and neonatal complications associated with GDM. The risk factors of GDM and of the maternal and neonatal complications were studied in order to prevent their occurrence. Materials and Methods : The study included 97 women in the study, who underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) between weeks 24-28 of pregnancy, consequently being divided into two groups: pregnant women with and without GDM. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 26.0 software and MATLAB fitglm, the results being considered statistically significant if p < 0.05. Results : We observed statistically significant differences between the group of women with and without GDM, regarding gestational hypertension (17.6% vs. 0%), preeclampsia (13.72% vs. 0%), and cesarean delivery (96.1% vs. 78,3%). Data on the newborn and neonatal complications: statistically significant differences were recorded between the two groups (GDM vs. no GDM) regarding the average weight at birth (3339.41 ± 658.12 g vs. 3122.83 ± 173.67 g), presence of large for gestational age (21.6% vs. 0%), macrosomia (13.7% vs. 0%), excessive fetal growth (35.3% vs. 0%), respiratory distress (31.4% vs. 0%), hospitalization for at least 24 h in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (9.80% vs. 0%), and APGAR score <7 both 1 and 5 min following birth (7.8% vs. 0%). Additionally, the frequency of neonatal hypoglycemia and hyperbilirubinemia was higher among newborns from mothers with GDM. Conclusions: The screening and diagnosis of GDM is vital, and appropriate management is required for the prevention of maternal and neonatal complications associated with GDM. It is also important to know the risk factors for GDM and attempt to prevent their appearance.

Background and Objectives : Hepatitis B virus infection remains a major public health concern. The interaction between hepatitis B virus (HBV) hepatitis B virus and the host inflammatory response is an important contributing factor driving liver damage and diseases outcomes. The management of chronic hepatitis B virus infection is an area of massive unmet clinical need worldwide. Our primary aim for this study was to evaluate biological response rates and sustained virological response in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with Peg-IFN α-2a/b. The second aim of the study was the identification of metabolic changes and insulin resistance. Materials and Methods : We enrolled in this study 166 patients who fulfilled all inclusion and exclusion criteria. These treatment-naive patients with chronic HBV were treated with Pegylated Interferon α-2a/b. HBV infection was defined by the presence of HBV serological markers (HBsAg, anti-HBsAb, anti-HBcAb, HBeAg, anti HBeAb) by Enzyme-Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) and serum HBV-DNA levels were estimated by a commercially available quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Results : Patients' recovery progress has been evaluated by determining the following: age, gender; biochemical tests; alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase; serological assays for HBV serological markers (HBsAg, anti-HBsAc/Ab, anti-HBcAc/Ab, HBeAg, anti HBeAc/Ab); molecular tests to detect viral particles, testing for HBV DNA (PCR) to confirm the diagnosis and quantify the number of viral copies in the blood (viremia); liver ultrasound-performed through epigastric and intercostal approach (transversal and longitudinal sections). Conclusions : Our results indicated that only HOMA index values, that of fasting insulin, together with baseline HBV DNA, alanine aminotransferase values, mean blood glucose at the beginning of treatment may be predictive of the early viral response in chronic hepatitis B.