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J. Mind Med. Sci., Volume 7, Issue 1 (April 2020) – 20 articles

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5 pages, 200 KiB  
Case Report
How Rare Is Isolated Rheumatic Tricuspid Valve Disease?
by Edme R. Mustafa, Octavian Istrătoaie, Roxana Mandia, Georgică C. Târtea and Cristina Florescu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 128-132; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P128132 - 20 Apr 2020
Viewed by 86
Abstract
The incidence of rheumatic fever (RF) has markedly decreased in Europe since the beginning of the 20th century due to improved living conditions, early antibiotic therapy in streptococcal pharyngitis, and changes in serotypes of circulating streptococci. Isolated outbreaks of RF are still found [...] Read more.
The incidence of rheumatic fever (RF) has markedly decreased in Europe since the beginning of the 20th century due to improved living conditions, early antibiotic therapy in streptococcal pharyngitis, and changes in serotypes of circulating streptococci. Isolated outbreaks of RF are still found in various parts of the world and the disease has changed its presentation with milder joint symptoms and subclinical carditis that make the correct diagnosis more difficult. Patients can present many years later with severe valve disease and significant disability. This article presents a case of isolated rheumatic tricuspid valve disease that presented with signs and symptoms of right heart failure and severe valve damage. Isolated involvement of the tricuspid valve is rarely found in rheumatic fever and a thorough differential diagnosis is needed. Full article
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9 pages, 246 KiB  
Case Report
Diabetes Mellitus and Necrotizing Fasciitis—A Deadly Combination; Case Report
by Alexandra Toma, Laura Mazilu, Andra Iulia Suceveanu, Florentina Gherghiceanu, Camelia Sandu, Cristina Bica, Liliana Florina Andronache, Ioana Paunica and Lavinia Alexandra Moroianu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 119-127; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P119127 - 20 Apr 2020
Viewed by 152
Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly destructive affliction of soft tissues, with a mortality rate that may reach 73% of the cases. It is characterized by a progressive inflammation and extended necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and the fascia. Necrotizing fasciitis was first described [...] Read more.
Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly destructive affliction of soft tissues, with a mortality rate that may reach 73% of the cases. It is characterized by a progressive inflammation and extended necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and the fascia. Necrotizing fasciitis was first described in 1848, and later in 1920 Meleney identified 20 patients in China in which the infection was presumably triggered by hemolytic streptococcus, linking pathological bacteria to the condition. In 1952, Wilson coined the term necrotizing fasciitis although without successfully identifying the specific pathological bacteria involved. In most cases, both risk and aggravating factors are present, the main risk factors being diabetes mellitus, liver cirrhosis, renal failure, and immunosuppressant states. Location may vary, but most frequently the disease occurs in the limbs, the trunk, and the perineum. Treatment depends on the location and the time of diagnosis and may range from large incisions with extensive debridement to organ amputations such as those of the limbs or breasts. Treatment is complex and expensive, and besides surgery, includes the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, intensive therapy support, and long-term hospitalizations. The prognosis is guarded. The present case entails a 56-year old female patient who presented with many risk factors favoring the occurrence of necrotizing fasciitis, namely diabetes mellitus, liver cirrhosis (decompensated with ascites and portal encephalopathy phenomena), untreated hepatitis B infection, chronic renal failure with diabetic nephrotic syndrome, and obesity. Full article
5 pages, 225 KiB  
Case Report
Duodenal Carcinoid Tumour—A Case Report
by Vasile Negrean, Cristina Buchman, Mirela Georgiana Perne, Mircea Milaciu, Iacob Domsa, Teodora Gabriela Alexescu, Ioana Para and Olga Hilda Orasan
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 114-118; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P114118 - 20 Apr 2020
Viewed by 73
Abstract
Duodenal carcinoids are rare tumours of the small intestine with heterogenous clinical and pathological characteristics. The long-term prognosis is very good if discovered in the early stages. We present the case of a patient with a non-functional duodenal carcinoid tumour discovered incidentally during [...] Read more.
Duodenal carcinoids are rare tumours of the small intestine with heterogenous clinical and pathological characteristics. The long-term prognosis is very good if discovered in the early stages. We present the case of a patient with a non-functional duodenal carcinoid tumour discovered incidentally during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The diagnosis was confirmed through immunohistochemistry. Treatment consisted of the endoscopic resection of the tumour and the surveillance of the patient for the following 2 years, with no signs of recurrence. We have conducted a literature review regarding the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with this type of tumours. Full article
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4 pages, 185 KiB  
Case Report
Extra Medullar Granulocytic Sarcoma: A Case Report of an Exceptional Localization
by Bouhani Malek, Sakhri Saida, Jaidane Olfa, Adouni Olfa, Chargui Riadh and Rahal Khaled
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 110-113; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P110113 - 20 Apr 2020
Viewed by 70
Abstract
Granulocytic sarcoma is a rare type of tumor composed of extramedullary immature cells. The breast location is very rare; it accounts for less than 8% of cases. The present study reports the case of a 36-year-old female with a medical history of myelodysplastic [...] Read more.
Granulocytic sarcoma is a rare type of tumor composed of extramedullary immature cells. The breast location is very rare; it accounts for less than 8% of cases. The present study reports the case of a 36-year-old female with a medical history of myelodysplastic syndrome. She was referred because of a lump in the left breast. We have diagnosed a case of granulocytic sarcoma of the breast by core biopsy. Histology and immunohistochemistry showed hypercellular smears with immature myeloid cells. The blast cells were myeloperoxidase positive. The patient underwent a lumpectomy. Five months later, she developed a contralateral recurrence, treated by lumpectomy and radiotherapy. Three years later, she developed a recurrence in the left knee. We report this case for its rarity and as a note of caution to a physician to consider myeloid sarcoma in the differential diagnosis of a breast lump, to provide the correct diagnosis and avoid incorrect treatment of a curable disease. Full article
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5 pages, 227 KiB  
Case Report
Therapeutic Approach for Amyand’s Hernia; A Case Report
by Sorin Berbece, Valeriu Ardeleanu, Vlad Denis Constantin, Ioana Paunica and Alexandra Toma
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 105-109; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P105109 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 84
Abstract
In very few cases stated in the literature, the vermiform appendix might be contained in a hernial sac. This distinctive pathology is described as Amyand's hernia and has the very small occurrence of about 1%. We report the case of a 62-year-old man [...] Read more.
In very few cases stated in the literature, the vermiform appendix might be contained in a hernial sac. This distinctive pathology is described as Amyand's hernia and has the very small occurrence of about 1%. We report the case of a 62-year-old man that presented for a reducible tumoral mass located in the right inguinal region. Amyand’s hernia was the intraoperative diagnostic. We performed hernioplasty (using the Lichtenstein tension-free mesh repair with a composite polypropylene mesh) without appendectomy. This case matches the type 1 Lossanoff and Basson’s classification and has no facile management. Due to the clinical specificities of each case that presents with defining features of an Amyand’s hernia, surgical management depends on the recommendations stated in the literature, as well as the surgeon’s judgment based on experience. Full article
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5 pages, 149 KiB  
Case Report
Warty Carcinoma of Uterine Cervix—Review of the Literature and Case Report
by Octavian Gabriel Olaru, Catalina Monica Pena, Oana Denisa Balalau and Anca Daniela Stanescu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 100-104; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P100104 - 20 Apr 2020
Viewed by 126
Abstract
Introduction. The Histological Classification of Epithelial Tumors of the Uterine Cervix of the World Health Organization includes inter alia warty carcinoma as a variant of squamous cell carcinoma. Until now several case reports and studies have shown that this particular cancer is [...] Read more.
Introduction. The Histological Classification of Epithelial Tumors of the Uterine Cervix of the World Health Organization includes inter alia warty carcinoma as a variant of squamous cell carcinoma. Until now several case reports and studies have shown that this particular cancer is associated with human papillomavirus/ HPV infection. Case presentation. A 58-year-old woman presented with a vegetant cervical tumour. Biopsy samples were collected from the tumour, and the histological exam successively confirmed the warty cell carcinoma. Additional tests revealed the presence of single human papillomavirus/ type-45. An immunohistochemistry exam was performed in order to confirm the diagnosis, and also to highlight the relationship between the potential causal factors and the morphological appearance. This allowed the confirmation of the diagnosis, and added new elements able to define the characteristics of this form of cancer. The treatment included radiotherapy and radical hysterectomy with anexectomy, and pelvic lymphadenectomy. The evolution was favorable, with no signs of local recurrence or metastasis in the past five years. Conclusions. Warty carcinoma, relatively similar to condyloma acuminatum or verrucous carcinomas, has specific immune-histochemical features that differentiate it from other variants of squamous cell carcinoma. The HPV genotype 45 can be considered a causative factor in the pathogenesis of cervical warty carcinoma. Even so, warty carcinoma appears not to be caused by a specific HPV subtype (or a combination of several specific genotypes), being rather a multifactorial affection. Full article
6 pages, 286 KiB  
Case Report
Imatinib-Induced Interstitial Pneumonitis—A Literature Review and Case Report
by Olga Hilda Orasan, Andreea Maria Stefan, Iulia Minciuna, Adela Sitar-Taut, George Ciulei, Simina Tarmure, Ioana Para, Flaviu Muresan, Ovidiu Fabian, Sorina Cezara Coste, Vasile Negrean, Angela Cozma and Laura Urian
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 94-99; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P9499 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 98
Abstract
Imatinib is generally well tolerated, with mild common side effects such as nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, fatigue, skin rash and edema; however, pulmonary complications are uncommon. A 73-year-old woman undergoing one month treatment with Imatinib for chronic myeloid neoplasm associated with [...] Read more.
Imatinib is generally well tolerated, with mild common side effects such as nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, fatigue, skin rash and edema; however, pulmonary complications are uncommon. A 73-year-old woman undergoing one month treatment with Imatinib for chronic myeloid neoplasm associated with eosinophilia was admitted for sudden alteration of her performance status, dyspnea at rest and productive cough. On clinical examination, the patient was hypoxic (oxygen saturation on room air was 87%), and auscultation of her lungs revealed diffuse bilateral fine crackles. Computed tomography showed bilateral pulmonary interstitial syndrome. Imatinib was discontinued and the patient received systemic corticosteroid therapy and oxygen therapy. After one month, the symptoms and radiological findings were resolved. When Imatinib therapy was resumed, respiratory symptoms reappeared, which is why treatment with Imatinib was interrupted. Imatinib-induced pneumonitis should take into consideration when patients develop respiratory symptoms or abnormal pulmonary radiological features. Full article
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9 pages, 492 KiB  
Article
An Investigation of Acute Effects at Various Doses of Malathion on Glucose Homeostasis and Insulin Resistance in Rat Liver, Pancreas and Serum
by Murat Ekremoğlu, Çınar Severcan, Özge Tuğce Pasaoğlu, Bayram Şen and Hatice Pasaoğlu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 85-93; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P8593 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 67
Abstract
Objective. This study investigates acute effects of various doses of Malathion on glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance in rat. Methods. Rats were randomly divided into four groups of 6 animals each. Corn oil was given orally to Group 1. Group 2, Group 3, [...] Read more.
Objective. This study investigates acute effects of various doses of Malathion on glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance in rat. Methods. Rats were randomly divided into four groups of 6 animals each. Corn oil was given orally to Group 1. Group 2, Group 3, and Group 4 received malathion dissolved in corn oil via oral administration at the doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. 24 h later the rats were sacrificed. Results. Acute administration of Malathion led to a decrease in serum butryl cholinesterase (BChE) levels at all doses tested. It also caused a significant increase in serum advanced glycation end products (AGEs), insulin, and TNF-α levels at all doses. Moreover, Malathion administration raised the liver ALT, AST and LDH, TNF-α, and glycogen levels in a dose dependent manner. It also led to a remarkable increase in pancreatic insulin levels at all doses. Conclusions. Acute administrations of Malathion affect glucose homeostasis in a dose dependent manner through its effects on the liver, serum, and pancreas. Full article
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6 pages, 271 KiB  
Article
Consciousness Level Determination of Red Meat Consumption of Pregnant Women, Giresun/Turkey Province
by Duygu Balpetek Külcü and Özge Cağcağ Yolcu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 79-84; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P7984 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 88
Abstract
In this study, meat consumption and the nutritional status of pregnant women living in Giresun province of Turkey were investigated. The study was carried out at Giresun University, the Maternity and Pediatrics Training and Research Hospital between February-March 2019. The study group consisted [...] Read more.
In this study, meat consumption and the nutritional status of pregnant women living in Giresun province of Turkey were investigated. The study was carried out at Giresun University, the Maternity and Pediatrics Training and Research Hospital between February-March 2019. The study group consisted of 218 pregnant women aged 18 to 49 years, who benefited from polyclinic services and agreed to participate in the survey. A questionnaire consisting of 12 questions was used, and the findings were evaluated using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics and t-tests or ANOVAs. The majority of participants stated that red meat is beneficial during pregnancy (71.1%) and this benefit is due to its nutrients (69.1%). Educational level was positively related to a balanced diet during pregnancy. Although the pregnant women in this study have knowledge about nutrition during pregnancy, nutrition programs can be further strengthened to increase their level of knowledge. Full article
10 pages, 235 KiB  
Article
Impact of Rational and Experiential Thinking Styles on Interpersonal Conflict Resolution Among Young Adults
by Ayesha Rafique, Hania Habib, Fariha Abdul Rehman and Shabnam Arshi
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 69-78; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P6978 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 127
Abstract
This research aimed to find the relationship between thinking styles (rational or experiential) and interpersonal conflict resolution (ICR) in young adults. A sample of 99 females and 103 males, age range 18 to 40 years, was selected via convenient and snow-ball sampling. Thinking [...] Read more.
This research aimed to find the relationship between thinking styles (rational or experiential) and interpersonal conflict resolution (ICR) in young adults. A sample of 99 females and 103 males, age range 18 to 40 years, was selected via convenient and snow-ball sampling. Thinking styles were assessed using Rational-Experiential Inventory-40, and ICR was measured using Conflict Resolution Questionnaire. Regression analysis was used to predict ICR based on thinking style covariates and several relevant demographic covariates, including gender and family birth order. Rational thinking style (RTS) was most prevalent among young adults and was the strongest predictor of ICR. In addition, gender was a significant predictor. These findings may help in coaching young adults toward a well-integrated personality by using rational thinking for effective ICR. Full article
8 pages, 206 KiB  
Article
Compassion and Suppression in Caregivers: Twin Masks of Tragedy and Joy of Caring
by Emanuele Maria Merlo, Sean M. McNabney, Fabio Frisone, Federica Sicari, Mihai Paunica, Catalina Motofei and Salvatore Settineri
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 61-68; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P6168 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 131
Abstract
Background: Compassionate caregiving is a critical skill for workers among the helping professions, but the degree of empathy required by caregivers can place high demands on their mental and emotional resources. While many professionals employ successful coping strategies to mitigate these stressors, [...] Read more.
Background: Compassionate caregiving is a critical skill for workers among the helping professions, but the degree of empathy required by caregivers can place high demands on their mental and emotional resources. While many professionals employ successful coping strategies to mitigate these stressors, others experience compassion fatigue or burnout from emotional exhaustion. The objective of this research was to evaluate the relationships between caregivers’ demographic/career variables, compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue, and psychodynamic defense mechanisms such as suppression, repressive function, regression in the service of the Ego, and rationalization. Methods: Participants were 250 caregivers with 178 (71.2%) women and 72 men (28.8%) between 18 and 80 years old (Mean age = 41.37; SD = 13.78). Standardized instruments were used to assess compassion in its different meanings (Professional Quality of Life Measure, ProQOL-5) and deployment of defense mechanisms such as suppression (Suppression Mental Questionnaire, SMQ). Correlational analyses were performed. Results: Greater compassion satisfaction was positively associated with more years of study and inversely associated with increasing age and working days per week. Burnout was positively correlated with greater age, more working hours per week, and more working days per week. Higher secondary traumatic stress was associated with increasing age, higher working hours, and more working days per week, while it was inversely associated with more years of study. Regarding the psychological defense mechanisms, more years of study was inversely associated with lower deployment of the repressive function, regression in the service of the Ego, and rationalization. Advancing age was negatively correlated with repression and regression in the service of the Ego, while it was positively correlated with rationalization. A higher number of working days per week was associated with greater utilization of all defense mechanisms, and higher working hours per week was correlated with higher SMQ total scores and greater use of the repressive function. Greater deployment of nearly all defense mechanisms was associated with greater secondary traumatic stress, while compassion satisfaction was associated with less utilization of repression, rationalization, and lower total SMQ scores. Conclusions: Excessive reliance on psychodynamic defense mechanisms can increase caregivers’ risk for burnout or secondary traumatic stress. Compassion satisfaction might serve as one coping strategy to mitigate emotional exhaustion among professionals. Full article
9 pages, 235 KiB  
Review
Risk Factors, Predictive Markers and Prevention Strategies for Intrauterine Fetal Death. An Integrative Review
by Roxana Bohiltea, Natalia Turcan, Christina M. Cavinder, Ionită Ducu, Ioana Paunica, Liliana Florina Andronache and Monica Mihaela Cirstoiu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 52-60; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P5260 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 111
Abstract
According to World Health Organization (WHO), fetal death is defined as the death of the fetus prior to its complete expulsion, independent of the duration of pregnancy, thus only ascribing the term stillbirth to fetal deaths in the case of pregnancies after 28 [...] Read more.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), fetal death is defined as the death of the fetus prior to its complete expulsion, independent of the duration of pregnancy, thus only ascribing the term stillbirth to fetal deaths in the case of pregnancies after 28 weeks of gestation. The great progress of perinatology care is reflected in a significant reduction in the rate of stillbirths, especially in well-developed countries, with approximately 98% of stillbirth cases now occurring in poor and developing countries. Stillbirth powerfully impacts both the patient and the practitioner. Because nearly half of stillbirth cases result from apparently uncomplicated pregnancies, we considered it critical to review the known predictive markers for intrauterine fetal death. In both preterm and term infants, perinatal mortality is increased in fetuses small for their gestational age, and this risk grows proportionally with the severity of the fetal growth restriction. A protracted first stage of labor has not been associated with an increased risk of perinatal mortality and morbidity, but a prolonged second stage of labor has been associated with mortality and neonatal morbidity characterized by sepsis, seizures, and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Ultrasound examination of the placenta and the umbilical cord is essential for appropriate pregnancy monitoring. Various findings from ultrasound examination have been related to variable adverse perinatal outcomes, including intrauterine fetal death. After reviewing the evidence for predictors of intrauterine fetal death, we offer a general strategy for reducing the likelihood of stillbirths. Full article
6 pages, 219 KiB  
Review
Laser Therapy in Superficial Morphea Lesions—Indications, Limitations and Therapeutic Alternatives
by Alin Laurentiu Tatu, Diana Sabina Radaschin, Vlad Denis Constantin, Paunica Stana and Valeriu Ardeleanu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 46-51; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P4651 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 116
Abstract
Morphea or localized scleroderma is an uncommon autoimmune and inflammatory disease which affects patients of any age. Even if morphea lesions present systemic symptoms as myalgias or arthritis, it is distinct from systemic sclerosis because it does not associate Raynaud’s phenomena or sclerodactyly, [...] Read more.
Morphea or localized scleroderma is an uncommon autoimmune and inflammatory disease which affects patients of any age. Even if morphea lesions present systemic symptoms as myalgias or arthritis, it is distinct from systemic sclerosis because it does not associate Raynaud’s phenomena or sclerodactyly, which are encountered in systemic scleroderma. The most common form of morphea in children is ‘en coup de sabre’, which can alter the local anatomy by deep tissue involvement. In contrast, the most frequent form that affects adults is represented by circumscribed morphea. The initial lesions present an inflammatory phase that manifests in the form of erythematous plaques, sometimes accompanied by edema. In later stages, the inflammation decreases and the lesions become sclerotic to atrophic. Therapy is most beneficial when initiated in the inflammatory stage. Topical application of high potency steroids along with phototherapy demonstrates the best results in the active phase of the disease. Localized superficial morphea can be treated with the excimer laser (using ultraviolet type B light, in range of 308 nm) if topical steroid administration shows no significant clinical improvement. Phototherapy with ultraviolet light is capable of decreasing inflammation and may also have immunomodulatory effects. Full article
6 pages, 452 KiB  
Review
Innovative Device for Indocianyne Green Navigational Surgery
by Cătălin Aliuș, Nicolae Bacalbașa and Cristian Bălălău
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 40-45; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P4045 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 83
Abstract
Dynamic reality has been integrated into developing surgical techniques, with the goals of providing increased intraoperative accuracy, easier detection of critical anatomical landmarks, and better general results for the patient. Enhancement of the reality in surgical theaters using single or multi sensorial augmenters [...] Read more.
Dynamic reality has been integrated into developing surgical techniques, with the goals of providing increased intraoperative accuracy, easier detection of critical anatomical landmarks, and better general results for the patient. Enhancement of the reality in surgical theaters using single or multi sensorial augmenters (haptic, thermic and visual) has been reported with various degrees of success. This paper presents a novel device for navigational surgery and ancillary clinical applications based on the fluorescent properties of Indocyanine Green (ICG), a safe, FDA-approved dye that emits fluorescence at higher wavelengths than endogenous proteins. The latest technological developments and the aforementioned convenient quantum behavior of ICG allow for its effective identification in tissues by means of a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) infrared camera. Following fundamental research on the fluorophor in different biological suspensions and at various concentrations, our team has built a device that casts a beam of excitation light at 780 nm and collects emission light at 810–830 nm, filtering ambient light and endogenous autofluorescence. The emission light is fluorescent and infrared, unlike visible light. It can penetrate tissues up to 1.6 cm in depth, providing after digitization into conventional imaging anatomical and functional data of immense intra-operative value. Full article
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6 pages, 176 KiB  
Review
The Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase (Akt)/ Protein Kinase B (PkB) Signaling Pathway in Breast Cancer
by Daniela Miricescu, Camelia Cristina Diaconu, Constantin Stefani, Ana Maria Alexandra Stanescu, Alexandra Totan, Ioana Ruxandra Rusu, Ovidiu Gabriel Bratu, Dan Spinu and Maria Greabu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 34-39; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P3439 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 141
Abstract
According to statistical data published in 2019, breast cancer is among the leading causes of death in women worldwide. The serine/threonine kinase (AKT) or protein kinase B (PkB) signaling pathway is activated by phosphorylation processes, which further is associated with cell growth, proliferation, [...] Read more.
According to statistical data published in 2019, breast cancer is among the leading causes of death in women worldwide. The serine/threonine kinase (AKT) or protein kinase B (PkB) signaling pathway is activated by phosphorylation processes, which further is associated with cell growth, proliferation, and survival, but also with activation of glucose metabolism. Mutations of the AKT signaling pathway components (especially PI3KCA and PTEN) have been observed in breast cancer patients, which are associated with resistance to hormonal treatment. Many clinical trials are testing the effect of AKT inhibition in order to block the growth and proliferation of breast cancer cells. The purpose of this review is to present the incidence of this neoplastic disease, to describe AKT signaling pathways activation, mutations that occur at its level, and inhibitors that can block this protein kinase. Full article
5 pages, 164 KiB  
Review
Microbiota: The Missing Link in the Etiology of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
by Micu Ioan Sergiu, Manea Madalina Elena, Musat Marilena, Dumitru Andrada and Popoiag Roxana Emanuela
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 29-33; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P2933 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 118
Abstract
Within its twisted and tight walls, where a hostile and arid environment prevails, the lumen of the digestive tract nests a true microuniverse called the microbiota. The existing relationship between humans and these microorganisms is one in which both benefit, creating a condition [...] Read more.
Within its twisted and tight walls, where a hostile and arid environment prevails, the lumen of the digestive tract nests a true microuniverse called the microbiota. The existing relationship between humans and these microorganisms is one in which both benefit, creating a condition called Eubiosis. The dynamic relationship existing between the microbiota and the human body can be affected at various times, leading to an imbalance that may have important implications on health and generating a condition called Disbiosis. Recent studies have highlighted possible links between several diseases with incompletely elucidated etiology and disturbances of the microbiota. In this review we aim to analyze the existing relationship between the imbalances of the gastrointestinal flora and the etiopathogeny inflammatory bowel diseases, a group of diseases whose incidence has increased considerably in recent years. Full article
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6 pages, 175 KiB  
Review
Underactive Bladder—An Underestimated Entity
by Spinu Arsenie Dan, Ovidiu Gabriel Bratu, Dragos Radu Marcu, Adina Elena Stanciu, Florentina Gherghiceanu, Florentina Ionita-Radu, Simona Bungau, Ana Maria Alexandra Stanescu and Dan Mischianu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 23-28; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P2328 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 104
Abstract
Introduction. The concept of underactive bladder is relatively new. Currently there is no generally accepted definition of this pathology. Diagnosis depends on urodynamic findings, and symptoms are usually rare and intricated with the symptoms of other urinary pathology. Matherials and methods. This review [...] Read more.
Introduction. The concept of underactive bladder is relatively new. Currently there is no generally accepted definition of this pathology. Diagnosis depends on urodynamic findings, and symptoms are usually rare and intricated with the symptoms of other urinary pathology. Matherials and methods. This review examines the current literature on underactive bladder regarding pathology, definition, diagnosis, current guidelines, and any further potential medical developments. Conclusions. Underactive bladder is a poorly understood pathologic condition. Only since 2002 has there been any consensus regarding the definition. The diagnosis relies only on urodynamics; clinical diagnosis is a challenge even for a consultant; and treatment does not seem to alleviate much of the suffering. This disease remains underrecognized and undertreated. More research is needed to identify less invasive diagnosis tools and treatment for this pathology. Full article
7 pages, 257 KiB  
Review
Treatment of Lipomas and Diffuse Lipomatosis with NDYAG 1064 NM Laser and Their Impact on the Quality of Life
by Valeriu Ardeleanu, Liliana Florina Andronache, Florentina Gherghiceanu, Stana Paunica, Cristian Balalau and Anca Pantea Stoian
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 16-22; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P1622 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 156
Abstract
Lipomas, the most common type of benign tumours, are generally developed from adipose tissue and present an incidence of 2.1 per 1000 inhabitants. In addition to lipomas, at least three other maladies of the adipose tissue lead patients to consult a doctor, especially [...] Read more.
Lipomas, the most common type of benign tumours, are generally developed from adipose tissue and present an incidence of 2.1 per 1000 inhabitants. In addition to lipomas, at least three other maladies of the adipose tissue lead patients to consult a doctor, especially for aesthetic purposes: multiple familial lipomatosis, diffuse congenital lipomatosis, and adiposa doloris. Unlike lipomas, these maladies are characterized by numerous lipomas, encapsulated or not, of different sizes, symmetrical or not, which may appear in the neck, limbs, or the trunk, sometimes being painful. The life quality of these patients is affected, not only from an aesthetic point of view but also from medical considerations, like pain. Chemical lipolysis has proven unsatisfactory for patients due to several reasons: the prolonged therapy, high cost, the partial dissolution of the lipomatosis, and high recurrence at one year. Surgical treatment remains the only viable option; sometimes when numerous lipomatous tumors required large and numerous incisions, treatment was refused by patients. The result after laser liposuction is excellent, the recovery time is short, without much pain for the patient, with minimal ecchymoses and edemas, without any recurrence in time, and with an excellent degree of patient satisfaction. Full article
7 pages, 239 KiB  
Review
The Role of Biotransformation Processes in Mediating Interactions Between Psychotropic Drugs and Natural Products
by Nicolae Bacinschi, Ina Pogonea, Lilia Podgurschi, Maria Mihalachi-Anghel, Emil Ștefănescu, Bogdan Socea and Marin Chianu
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 9-15; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P915 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 82
Abstract
Many patients are not aware that natural products such as fruit juices or plant infusions can cause significant interactions with several drugs, some of which can be dangerous, especially when the medical treatment is for neurological or psychiatric disorders. Among the most predisposed [...] Read more.
Many patients are not aware that natural products such as fruit juices or plant infusions can cause significant interactions with several drugs, some of which can be dangerous, especially when the medical treatment is for neurological or psychiatric disorders. Among the most predisposed for interacting with drugs are citric juices, particularly grapefruit and plant infusions, especially St John`s wort (Hypericum perforatum). Understanding the mechanism and the frequency of this type of interaction helps to avoid it. The goal of this research was to identify and summarize the most relevant reports on interactions between psychotropic drugs and natural beverages, in order to raise awareness among physicians that they should invest more time in educating patients how to administer drugs properly, thus reducing the likelihood of such unwanted events. For the purpose of this study, an electronic search of PubMed database was conducted until September 2019. We concluded that natural beverage consumption along side medical treatment is a widespread practice and the main mechanism generating interactions is related to the functioning of biotransformation enzymes. Full article
8 pages, 246 KiB  
Review
Anorexia Nervosa and Reproduction: Connecting Brain to Gonads
by Mihaela Poterasu, David L. Rowland, Corina Ciobanu and Simona Fica
J. Mind Med. Sci. 2020, 7(1), 1-8; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.71.P18 - 20 Apr 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 96
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric disorder that predominantly affects young women and is characterized by low caloric intake and a major dissatisfaction with one’s body image. It is often overlooked and, while patients and family seek medical help, emaciation and nutritional misbalances [...] Read more.
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric disorder that predominantly affects young women and is characterized by low caloric intake and a major dissatisfaction with one’s body image. It is often overlooked and, while patients and family seek medical help, emaciation and nutritional misbalances may become extreme and potentially life threatening. Among the many somatic complications, an accumulation of early endocrine adaptations occurs, leading to functional amenorrhea and impaired reproduction as a result of dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Even though these conditions are reversible, long-term consequences may affect the fertility of women with AN and can lead to maternal and fetal complications during pregnancy and birth. This review presents the clinical particularities of reproduction in the context of AN, along with the possible pathophysiological mechanisms involved. Full article
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