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Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences is published by MDPI from Volume 12 Issue 1 (2025). Previous articles were published by another publisher in Open Access under a CC-BY (or CC-BY-NC-ND) licence, and they are hosted by MDPI on mdpi.com as a courtesy and upon agreement with Valparaiso University (ValpoScholar).

J. Mind Med. Sci., Volume 10, Issue 1 (April 2023) – 18 articles

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9 pages, 286 KiB  
Case Report
Tips and Tricks for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in the Patient with Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt: A Case Report
by Carmen Popa, Andrei Moisin, Mihai Faur, Mihaela Racheriu, Ramona Coca, Cristian Mihai Branescu, Tiberiu Trotea and Denisa Tănăsescu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 163-171; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1372 - 25 Apr 2023
Viewed by 94
Abstract
Laparoscopic surgery in patients with ventriculo-peritoneal shunt is challenging in terms of technical approach. The severity of possible complications and the lack of studies on this association increase the surgeon's discomfort with such surgery. The main complications that may occur are increased intracranial [...] Read more.
Laparoscopic surgery in patients with ventriculo-peritoneal shunt is challenging in terms of technical approach. The severity of possible complications and the lack of studies on this association increase the surgeon's discomfort with such surgery. The main complications that may occur are increased intracranial pressure, secondary pneumo-peritoneum pneumocephalus, encephalitis and the risk of catheter injury during laparoscopic procedures. We present the case of a 56-year-old patient operated in 2004 for a basilar artery top aneurysm with subarachnoid hemorrhage and secondary hydrocephalus, for which a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt was fitted. This patient presented in our clinic with diffuse abdominal pain, more accentuated in the right hypochondrium, nausea, postprandial biliary vomiting, inappetence, asthenia, fatigability, symptoms with onset about 6 months, but accentuated in the last 48 h. The patient underwent surgery and the evolution was favorable, being discharged without postoperative complications. Full article
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7 pages, 343 KiB  
Article
Anxio-Depressive Disorders in a Pandemic Context: A Comparative Analysis: Year 2019 Versus 2020
by Andreea Roxana Droahnă, Lavinia-Alexandra Moroianu, Valeria-Anca Pietroșel, Cristina Ioana Bica, Teodor Salmen, Cecilia Curis, Emanuele Maria Merlo, Roxana Adriana Stoica and Marius Moroianu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 156-162; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1392 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 105
Abstract
The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in increased rates of anxiety and depression worldwide. Objective. To comparatively evaluate factors associated with the psychological impact of Coronavirus disease between 2019 and the pandemic year 2020. Materials and Methods. The study was [...] Read more.
The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in increased rates of anxiety and depression worldwide. Objective. To comparatively evaluate factors associated with the psychological impact of Coronavirus disease between 2019 and the pandemic year 2020. Materials and Methods. The study was performed on a group of 3224 patients, of which 197 were hospitalized, selected from 1 Jan 2019 until 30 Dec 2020 in a tertiary care center for psychiatric disorders. Data were collected from the observation charts. Results. The incidence of anxiety disorders is higher in the age range 40–70 years with an average value of 53 years old. In 2019, a third of patients (29.45%) had alcohol-related conditions and developed anxiety-depressive disorder. In 2020, the percentage was lower (9.38%), but also the number of admitted patients significantly decreased (p < 0.0001). There were not found significant differences in age, gender or environment. Hypnotic disorders were more predominant in 2019 (54.6% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.01), whereas in 2020 anxiety and agitation increased significantly (34.4% vs. 84.38%, p = 0.0001). Relapses were similarly frequent in both years, in half of the cases. Conclusions. Coronavirus pandemic lead to a decrease in both presentations and admission to hospital. Although there were not found significant differences in age or gender, more patients from urban environment were admitted, which can have several explanations. Anxiety and agitation became the main reason for hospitalization in 2020. Full article
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8 pages, 445 KiB  
Article
Opportunistic Retrospective Assessment of HUAC, Bone Density, SFT and Breast Density on CT Images and Relationship with Severity of COVID-19
by Mahmut Subasi, Mustafa Duger, Cengiz Erol and Irmak Durur-Subasi
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 148-155; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1371 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 89
Abstract
Aim. To evaluate mean Hounsfield unit calculation (HUAC), bone density, subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), breast density (constitutional imaging biomarkers) and age in symptomatic patients with COVID-19, to assess their correlation with pneumonia severity. Materials and Methods. Between 11 March and 30 [...] Read more.
Aim. To evaluate mean Hounsfield unit calculation (HUAC), bone density, subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), breast density (constitutional imaging biomarkers) and age in symptomatic patients with COVID-19, to assess their correlation with pneumonia severity. Materials and Methods. Between 11 March and 30 May 2020, 272 consecutive symptomatic female patients with COVID-19 who underwent chest CT imaging at baseline were reviewed. HUAC, bone density, SFT and breast density were evaluated retrospectively and statistically compared in cases with negative/positive PCR test results, with/without pneumonia and with mild/moderate-severe pneumonia. Univariate/multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied for estimation of moderate/severe pneumonia. Results. The parameters of age, HUAC, bone density, SFT and breast density were significantly different between patients with/without pneumonia. Additionally, the patients with moderate-severe pneumonia were older, had lower bone density, lower HUAC values, greater SFT and mostly fatty breast density. ROC analysis showed the highest AUC values of 0.763 and 0.744 for age and HUAC, respectively. A combination of HUAC and age was the most accurate model for estimation of moderate/severe pneumonia on logistic regression. Good intraobserver and interobserver reliabilities were detected. Conclusions. The severity of COVID-19 pneumonia among adult females was associated with older age, lower bone density, a lower HUAC value, greater SFT and fatty breast parenchyma. All these factors can be responsible for 21.9% of the development of moderate/severe pneumonia. Full article
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9 pages, 319 KiB  
Article
Chronic Wound Management: Surgical Therapy and Complementary Nursing with Manuka Honey
by Georgeta Paunică-Panea, Sergiu Teodorescu, Aurelia Preda, Laura Elena Gligor, Adrian Silaghi and Vlad Denis Constantin
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 139-147; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1387 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 127
Abstract
Objectives. This study aims to analyze the evolution of chronic wounds treated both surgically and by complementary nursing using Manuka honey. The parameters monitored were: presence/persistence of bacterial infection, the duration of healing, the recovery period and the patients' quality of life. [...] Read more.
Objectives. This study aims to analyze the evolution of chronic wounds treated both surgically and by complementary nursing using Manuka honey. The parameters monitored were: presence/persistence of bacterial infection, the duration of healing, the recovery period and the patients' quality of life. Materials and Methods. The study group and the control group each consisted of 10 patients, aged between 50–60 years, with chronic wounds of various etiologies but without other significant systemic pathologies. Data collection was carried out through anamnesis, physical examination and analysis of medical documents. Results. In the study group, the depth of the wound was reduced rapidly and significantly, with complete epithelialization after about four weeks. In the control group, the wound was completely healed by classical treatment, but in eleven weeks and in the form of an unaesthetic keloid scar. The recovery period of a chronic wound appears to be significantly influenced by the use of Manuka honey. Conclusions. Future studies on large groups of patients need to verify the potential therapeutic properties of this compound (anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, autolytic debridement, etc.), as well as its adjunctive contribution to wound dressing (maintaining a moist environment and reducing trauma and unpleasant odors). Full article
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8 pages, 327 KiB  
Article
Postpartum Depression: Associated Factors and Underdiagnosis
by Andra Iancu, Valeria-Anca Pietrosel, Teodor Salmen, Cristina Ioana Bica, Ioana Păunică, Liliana Florina Andronache, Florentina Gherghiceanu and Cecilia Curis
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 131-138; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1391 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 103
Abstract
Post-partum depression is one of the most severe types of depression and can be developed at any age, no matter of cultural of social status. Objectives. To determine the factors associated with the psychological impact of pregnancy and to emphasize the psychological and [...] Read more.
Post-partum depression is one of the most severe types of depression and can be developed at any age, no matter of cultural of social status. Objectives. To determine the factors associated with the psychological impact of pregnancy and to emphasize the psychological and psychiatric risks after giving birth for a woman. Materials and Methods. The study enrolled 35 patients diagnosed with postpartum depression that have been hospitalized in a tertiary-care center for psychiatric disorders between 2016 and 2020. Data were collected from patients’ observation charts. Results. The incidence of postpartum depression is higher in the age range 30-45 years old for primiparous women who are from urban areas, unemployed and not integrated in a family (unbalanced families or single parents), with medium level of education (high school) and alcohol addiction. One of 35 patients committed infanticide. Conclusions. Even if the postpartum depression is known worldwide it is still underdiagnosed, with certain factors concurring to that. Postpartum depression requires the identification of risk conditions in pregnant women and individualized therapy in a patient-centered, holistic manner. Full article
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10 pages, 284 KiB  
Article
Acute Lithiasis Cholecystitis: Particularities of Diagnosis and Treatment in the Elderly
by Adrian Silaghi, Bogdan Socea, Petrisor Banu, Vlad Dumitru Baleanu, Dragos Epistatu, Ioana Paunica and Vlad Denis Constantin
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 121-130; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1386 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 106
Abstract
Objectives. The incidence of acute cholecystitis increases with age, when patients usually associate additional comorbidities. Such comorbidities and the late presentation to the doctor make the treatment more complex, associating higher rates of complications. The present study aims to evaluate the methods [...] Read more.
Objectives. The incidence of acute cholecystitis increases with age, when patients usually associate additional comorbidities. Such comorbidities and the late presentation to the doctor make the treatment more complex, associating higher rates of complications. The present study aims to evaluate the methods of diagnosis and treatment applied to a group of older patients with acute cholecystitis. Materials and Methods. 585 patients were enrolled in the study between 2019 and 2023. The inclusion criteria in the study were represented by the presence of the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis in patients over 65 years of age, while patients who presented complex locoregional pathologies (trauma, cancer, etc.) were excluded. Results. In about 91% of cases, acute cholecystitis was determined by gallstones. 61.19% of cases benefited from laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the rest of the patients requiring additional procedures or open surgery. Morbidity and mortality were not significantly influenced, but some of the patients required complex interventions and longer hospital stay. Conclusions. The clinical manifestations of acute cholecystitis can be diminished in some of the elderly patients (neurological disorders, diabetes, immunosenescence, etc.), being initially appreciated as mild forms. Later it is found (by imaging or intraoperatively) that these are much more severe forms, which often require a customized therapeutic approach. Full article
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8 pages, 427 KiB  
Article
Impact of Risk Factors on the Evolution of Severe Acute Pancreatitis
by Andra Maria Trotea, Raluca Grigorescu, Dragos Serban, Radu Palade, Simona Balasescu, Cristian Mihai Branescu, Daniel Radu, Corneliu Tudor and Tiberiu Alexandru Trotea
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 113-120; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1374 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 114
Abstract
Introduction. Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an acute inflammatory condition of the pancreas with increasing incidence and mortality rates in recent years. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of age, comorbidities, and different scoring systems on the complications [...] Read more.
Introduction. Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is an acute inflammatory condition of the pancreas with increasing incidence and mortality rates in recent years. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of age, comorbidities, and different scoring systems on the complications and outcomes of SAP. Materials and Methods. A retrospective study was conducted on 161 patients diagnosed and treated for SAP at the Bucharest University Hospital in the intensive care unit (ICU), in the period 2014–2021. The impact of risk factors for the development of SAP, occurrence of complications (respiratory, cardiac, etc.), length of hospital stays and mortality was analyzed using several scores (BISAP, Ranson, Apache II and SOFA) or modified computed tomography severity index. Preexisting chronic conditions were assessed using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Multivariate statistics and non-parametric univariate were calculated in statistical analysis. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used. Results. Risk factors such as age, diet, medication, alcohol consumption, genetic factors and patient comorbidities contribute significantly to the development of a severe form of acute pancreatitis with critical course and high mortality. Conclusions. In our study, CCI was the most important factor correlated with death and duration of ICU treatment. Full article
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7 pages, 196 KiB  
Article
The Relationship Between Quality of Life and Functionality in Patients with Schizophrenia—A Preliminary Report
by Vlad Dionisie, Mihnea Costin Manea, Manea Mirela, Lavinia Steluta Bonciu, Sorin Riga and Maria Gabriela Puiu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 106-112; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1380 - 25 Apr 2023
Viewed by 89
Abstract
This research aimed to investigate the relationship between quality of life and level of functioning in a group of Romanian patients with schizophrenia. A cross-sectional, observational, prospective study on 47 patients with schizophrenia was conducted. Socio-demographic and clinical data were documented and WHOQOL-BREF [...] Read more.
This research aimed to investigate the relationship between quality of life and level of functioning in a group of Romanian patients with schizophrenia. A cross-sectional, observational, prospective study on 47 patients with schizophrenia was conducted. Socio-demographic and clinical data were documented and WHOQOL-BREF and Life Skills Profile-16 instruments were further administered. To examine the correlation between variables, Person correlation test was employed. The mean age of the sample was 38.32 ± 12.32 years and 66% of the patients were males. Significant correlations were found between all aspects of the quality of life (physical health, psychological, social relationships and environmental health) and total score of LSP-16 (r = −0.426, p < 0.01; r = −0.396, p < 0.01; r = −0.452, p < 0.01; r = −0.470, p < 0.001, respectively). Our research revealed that lower overall functionality in patients with schizophrenia was associated with a decreased quality of life. The development and implementation of new psychological and pharmacological tools in clinical practice to improve these outcomes appears to be critically needed. Full article
21 pages, 387 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in the Role of Rehabilitative Therapies for Parkinson’s Disease: A Literature Review
by Bazza Sohail, Muhammad Affan Iqbal, Aisha Razzaq, Abdul Wasay Nafe and Robina Malik
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 85-105; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1365 - 25 Apr 2023
Viewed by 228
Abstract
Regardless of medical therapies and surgical interventions for Parkinson’s disease, patients develop progressive disability. The role of therapies is to maximize functional ability and minimize secondary complications through movement rehabilitation within a context of education and support for the whole person. The overall [...] Read more.
Regardless of medical therapies and surgical interventions for Parkinson’s disease, patients develop progressive disability. The role of therapies is to maximize functional ability and minimize secondary complications through movement rehabilitation within a context of education and support for the whole person. The overall aim is to optimize independence, safety and wellbeing, thereby enhancing quality of life. Trials have shown that physiotherapy has short-term benefits in Parkinson’s disease. However, which physiotherapy intervention are most effective remains unclear. This article provides a guidance framework rather than a ‘recipe’ for treatment. This review shows that a wide range of rehabilitative therapy interventions to treat Parkinson’s disease have been tested. There is a need for more specific trials with improved treatment strategies to underpin the most appropriate choice of therapy intervention and the outcomes measured. According to research in the literature, this review is of particular importance because it discusses many rehabilitation therapies for patients with Parkinson's disease in a single paper, for the first time. The aim of this review article is to evaluate the effectiveness of one therapy intervention compared with a second approach in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Full article
6 pages, 212 KiB  
Review
Management of Pelvic Pain Caused by Endometriosis
by Oana Denisa Bălălău, Ioana Andreea Ciupitu, Delia-Maria Bogheanu, Alexia-Ioana Ghiocel-Zariosu, Cristian Balalau, Liana Ples, Daniela Gabriela Bălan, Ioana Paunica and Romina Marina Sima
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 79-84; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1390 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 148
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disorder of the epithelium and/or endometrial-like stroma outside the endometrium and myometrium, usually with an associated inflammatory process. It mainly affects young women of reproductive age, the prevalence being estimated at approximately 10%. Due to the varied clinical symptoms marked [...] Read more.
Endometriosis is a disorder of the epithelium and/or endometrial-like stroma outside the endometrium and myometrium, usually with an associated inflammatory process. It mainly affects young women of reproductive age, the prevalence being estimated at approximately 10%. Due to the varied clinical symptoms marked by chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, infertility, dyspareunia, dysuria, endometriosis requires a complex treatment. Endometriosis is a major health problem with socioeconomic impact, which is why many gynecological societies have published different guidelines to assist clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis. The variety of available treatments combined with the complexity of this disease leads to significant discrepancies between recommendations. The most used is the ESHRE guidelines published in 2022, which represents an update of the ESHRE guidelines on endometriosis published in 2013 and 2005 regarding the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of endometriosis treatment methods after comparing several widely used guidelines in endometriosis management. Full article
7 pages, 223 KiB  
Review
Evaluation of Medical Decision Errors During the Transition Period to Telemedicine
by Marius Moroianu, Roxana-Elena Bogdan-Goroftei, Teodor Salmen, Cristina Bica, Valeria-Anca Pietrosel, Razvan Hainarosie and Anca Pantea Stoian
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 72-78; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1368 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 106
Abstract
The context of the Coronavirus pandemic has fundamentally changed the way we approach medical services. Beyond setting up new technological possibilities, it has propelled telemedicine to become a reality, bringing undeniable practical benefits. The questions that arise are both justified and worrying: can [...] Read more.
The context of the Coronavirus pandemic has fundamentally changed the way we approach medical services. Beyond setting up new technological possibilities, it has propelled telemedicine to become a reality, bringing undeniable practical benefits. The questions that arise are both justified and worrying: can digitalization replace a direct interpersonal relationship that involves a physical examination, while preserving the quality of the medical act and the degree of patient satisfaction? Isn't there a risk that the digitization of the medical record will cancel out the deep human character of classical medicine that has evolved since the time of Hippocrates? Should the implementation of telemedicine be "the state-of-art" of modern medicine, in accordance with the co-evolution of digital technology? It is hard to believe that once used in this period, telemedicine will be abandoned. However, telemedicine must be analyzed not only in the short term but also in the long term, in order to be able to evaluate both its usefulness and possible deficiencies. Full article
6 pages, 283 KiB  
Review
Matrix Gla Protein—A New Marker for Colorectal Cancer Detection? A Systematic Review
by Mirela-Georgiana Perné, Lorena Ciumărnean, Olga-Hilda Orășan, Vasile Negrean, Teodora-Gabriela Alexescu, Mircea Vasile Milaciu, Ioana Roșca, Răzvan Dan Togănel, Gabriel Emil Petre, Lucia Procopcoiuc, Cristina Drugan and Alexandra Crăciun
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 66-71; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1373 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 100
Abstract
Background. Colorectal cancer is a real public health issue, with high morbidity and severe impact on quality of life. Although mortality from this type of cancer is decreasing due to modern diagnostic and treatment methods, the understanding of its genetic and molecular [...] Read more.
Background. Colorectal cancer is a real public health issue, with high morbidity and severe impact on quality of life. Although mortality from this type of cancer is decreasing due to modern diagnostic and treatment methods, the understanding of its genetic and molecular mechanisms is important to develop a broader range of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Genetic therapy is an important strategy in cancer treatment, and the matrix Gla protein (MGP) gene expression has been described in numerous studies as increased in tumour pathology. In this article, we have summarized the currently available evidence on the connection between MGP and colorectal cancer. Materials and Methods. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we have searched the PubMed, ProQuest and ScienceDirect databases for relevant published works that studied the connection between colorectal cancer and MGP gene expression. Results: Three relevant works were included in this systematic review. Two of these studies have observed MGP gene overexpression in tumour cells, a result that contradicts the third study, where the MGP gene was underexpressed. Conclusions: The data provided by these articles is contradictory, and therefore more studies are needed on larger sets of subjects, to fully understand the connection between MGP and colorectal cancer. Full article
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15 pages, 292 KiB  
Review
Diagnosis and Management of Colon Cancer Patients Presenting in Advanced Stages of Complications
by Vlad Denis Constantin, Adrian Silaghi, Dragos Epistatu, Anca Silvia Dumitriu, Stana Paunica, Daniela Gabriela Bălan and Bogdan Socea
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 51-65; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1388 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 104
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is an important health problem with a significant impact on the individual and society. Malignancy (including colorectal cancer) is usually slightly symptomatic in its initial stages. This causes cancer to be discovered in some patients accidentally (either through screening tests in [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer is an important health problem with a significant impact on the individual and society. Malignancy (including colorectal cancer) is usually slightly symptomatic in its initial stages. This causes cancer to be discovered in some patients accidentally (either through screening tests in predisposed individuals or during routine investigations for other diseases), while in other patients the colorectal cancer is discovered in late stages, when the symptoms are much more intense due to complications. Unfortunately, such advanced cases of the disease have high rates of morbidity and mortality even with treatment. Current treatment methods are usually complex, interdisciplinary, causing significant suffering (physical, mental) to the individual, while the cost of treatment per patient seems to be extremely high. Until finding therapeutic methods that are effective and accessible to most patients with advanced colorectal cancer, several methods of prophylaxis and early diagnosis should be considered, to reduce as much as possible the devastating impact of this disease. The purpose of this review is to present literature data regarding the current methods of diagnosis and treatment of patients presenting to the doctor with colorectal cancer in advanced stages of complications. Full article
9 pages, 305 KiB  
Review
Dental Fear, Anxiety, and Phobia—Behavioral Management and Implications for Dentists
by Nadya Tsetsova Avramova
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 42-50; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1349 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 223
Abstract
Clinical management of patients with dental fear, anxiety, and phobia could be a major challenge to daily practice of dental professionals. The aim of the current review was to expand the modern consideration with respect to these issues, and therefore to discuss basic [...] Read more.
Clinical management of patients with dental fear, anxiety, and phobia could be a major challenge to daily practice of dental professionals. The aim of the current review was to expand the modern consideration with respect to these issues, and therefore to discuss basic approaches and psychological techniques for management of oral health behaviors that should be employed in dentistry. This paper presents detailed description of the characteristics of dentist-patient therapeutic relationship as well as the most used techniques to cope with dental fear, anxiety, and phobia-relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), hypnosis and melotherapy. We can still argue that knowledge from behavioral sciences, along with excellent communication skills, empathic attitude, and individual patient-centered approach remain the main armamentarium of the dentist to deal with “difficult” patients, experiencing fear, anxiety, or phobia during dental appointment. Full article
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8 pages, 183 KiB  
Review
Management of Anxiety and Depression in Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
by Mansour Jannati and Amir Aslani
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 34-41; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1360 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 125
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are common events in 30–40 percent of post coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery patients. Depression symptoms in patients with CAD are expected to be significantly more, comparing the public incidence rate. Impaired remedy after coronary artery events may partly [...] Read more.
Depression and anxiety are common events in 30–40 percent of post coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery patients. Depression symptoms in patients with CAD are expected to be significantly more, comparing the public incidence rate. Impaired remedy after coronary artery events may partly be attributed to depression and anxiety. If anxiety continues, it may lead to elevate metabolism and oxygen consuming. High level of anxiety increases the pain sensation in post CABG patients. This paper aimed to review results and findings of previous studies in the field of anxiety and depression management of post coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Up to 78 credited studies collected and compared in this review. Findings revealed that depression and anxiety could more complicate medical post CABG remedy. In addition, preoperative depression and anxiety symptoms would be persisted in post CABG recovery. Therefore, prior patients training about depression and anxiety symptoms would be wise strategy to help them describe their psychological mood before and after surgery. Findings also suggest that anxiety amplified depression prevalence in post CABG patients. Among the other methods, Benson relaxation is the best complementary medicine to mitigate pre-CABG anxiety. In addition, massage and music therapy could influence on post CABG anxiety and depression. There are also some robust evidences, indicating that perceived social support could influence post CABG anxiety and depression. Furthermore, sedative (such as propofol) and opioid and non-opioid analgesics, which used in post CABG pain management, could directly reduce anxiety level. Antidepressants sertraline and citalopram are the best studied post CABG pharmacological treatments which influence on post CABG remedy and hospitalization. The results suggest that treatment for anxiety is essential for alleviating patient suffering. In addition, anxiety treatment could protect patient against depression before and after CABG surgery. Full article
19 pages, 408 KiB  
Review
Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Compared to Alternative Surgical Techniques for the Treatment of Grade II-IV Haemorrhoids: A Systematic Review
by Dayna van de Hoef and Aisling Hogan
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 15-33; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1385 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 104
Abstract
Background. Haemorrhoidal disease is a common disorder in the Western World that commonly requires surgical treatment, but original open techniques were associated with significant complications and pain. Haemorrhoidal Arterial Ligation (HAL) has gained popularity for relatively low complication and postoperative pain rates. [...] Read more.
Background. Haemorrhoidal disease is a common disorder in the Western World that commonly requires surgical treatment, but original open techniques were associated with significant complications and pain. Haemorrhoidal Arterial Ligation (HAL) has gained popularity for relatively low complication and postoperative pain rates. This review assesses clinical outcomes of this technique in comparison to alternative modern techniques. Methods. The literature was searched on MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases. Search terms: dearterialization, artery ligation, mucopexy, recto-anal repair. Inclusion criteria: RCTs, original publications, grade II, III and/or grade IV haemorrhoids, elective procedures. Exclusion criteria: non-English, non-adults, published pre-2016. Results. 14 RCTs were included in the systematic review. HAL performed poorly in terms of recurrence, with a pooled recurrence rate of 10.34% for grade III haemorrhoids. HAL had a similar recurrence rate to Procedure for Prolapse and Haemorrhoids. Pain was comparable between groups. Conclusion. HAL is a safe surgical technique for the treatment of grade II to grade IV haemorrhoids. It still has a relatively low complication rate, and pain scores are comparable to other non-invasive techniques, and superior to open techniques. HAL still performs poorly in terms of recurrence rates. New modified procedures including suture-mucopexy only and tissue-selecting techniques appear to have better therapeutic potential. Full article
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7 pages, 228 KiB  
Review
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss—A Life Changing Condition for Women
by Oana Denisa Bălălău, Fernanda-Ecaterina Augustin, Delia-Maria Bogheanu, Alin-Gabriel Negulescu, Romina-Marina Sima, Anca Silvia Dumitriu, Stana Paunica and Liana Ples
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 8-14; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1384 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 123
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is estimated to occur in 2.5% of women trying to conceive. Definition of RPL varies depending on used guideline. In Europe, RPL is defined as two or more lost pregnancies before 24 weeks’ gestation. Although many factors have been [...] Read more.
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is estimated to occur in 2.5% of women trying to conceive. Definition of RPL varies depending on used guideline. In Europe, RPL is defined as two or more lost pregnancies before 24 weeks’ gestation. Although many factors have been associated with a higher risk of recurrent miscarriage, the aetiology is unknown in about half of cases. Several factors have been related to recurrent pregnancy loss, such as: environmental, behavioral, genetic, endocrine, metabolic, autoimmune, anatomic, thrombophilia and male factor. Given the multitude of etiopathogenic factors, RPL frequently requires an interdisciplinary approach for diagnosis and treatment. By its repetitive nature, RPL represents a psychological trauma on the couple who wants to conceive a child. Consequently, empathy and support are also necessary to be integrated in the therapeutic approach in the case of couples with recurrent miscarriage. Full article
7 pages, 296 KiB  
Review
A Phenomenological Take on Mirror Self-Face Perception in Schizophrenia
by Giovanni Pennisi
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2023, 10(1), 1-7; https://doi.org/10.22543/2392-7674.1389 - 25 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 84
Abstract
Studies concerning social deficits in schizophrenia has often been restrained to exploring facial recognition. Various investigations have shown that those diagnosed with schizophrenia have difficulties in perceiving the identities and emotions of those around them merely through observing their facial features. A few [...] Read more.
Studies concerning social deficits in schizophrenia has often been restrained to exploring facial recognition. Various investigations have shown that those diagnosed with schizophrenia have difficulties in perceiving the identities and emotions of those around them merely through observing their facial features. A few others have also taken into account the issue of self-face recognition in individuals with schizophrenia, finding that their capacity to associate photos or videos of their own face to themselves is hindered due to the illness. However, to my knowledge, only a few studies have so far delved into the intricacies of how individuals with schizophrenia or schizotypal traits perceive their own facial features during mirror gazing. Some authors highlighted that it is imperative to differentiate between the ability of identifying one’s own face in photographs or videos and while mirror gazing, not only in virtue of the fact that mirror self-recognition arises earlier than photo self-recognition, but also because the neural responses elicited by the former are distinct from those generated by the latter. In light of this, it is crucial to elucidate the developmental aspects of the cognitive mechanism of mirror self-recognition. I will do so in order to introduce a discussion on the results of the studies on mirror self-face perception in schizophrenia, which will be carried out through an approach inspired by phenomenological theories of schizophrenia and self-consciousness. Finally, the Conclusions will provide further comments on the linkages among schizophrenia, mirror self-face perception, and self-consciousness. Full article
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