Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences

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Open AccessCommentary

Erratum to: Teachers’ Views on Preparation for Employment of Young Autistic People

by Biranavan Thavapalan and Emanuele Maria Merlo

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P201201 - 10 Apr 2022

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Background. Contemporary literature indicates that there is significant support and assistance provided by schools for young autistic people, with a positive impact on the accessibility of jobs. Nevertheless, the employment rate of autistic people is unacceptably low in the UK. The current [...] Read more.

Background. Contemporary literature indicates that there is significant support and assistance provided by schools for young autistic people, with a positive impact on the accessibility of jobs. Nevertheless, the employment rate of autistic people is unacceptably low in the UK. The current study investigated teachers’ views on the preparation for employment of young autistic people in the UK. Methods. Interviews were conducted with individuals from the educational field and thematic analysis was used to explore the teachers’ views regarding the factors that could have an impact on the preparation for employment of young autistic people. Results. Four main themes emerged from the analysis of this study. These themes included awareness, funding and government support, action plans and motivation. Conclusions. The results obtained appear to have critical implications for the educational field and future research, being presented in this paper. Full article

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Open AccessCase Report

The Customized Therapeutic Approach of a Giant Pancreatic Pseudocyst. A Case Report and Literature Review

by Petrișor Banu, Bogdan Socea, Daniela Gabriela Balan, Vladimir Sandu, Tiberiu Onicel, Adrian Silaghi, Ioana Paunica and Vlad Denis Constantin

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 193-200; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P193200 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Giant pancreatic pseudocysts are considered those cysts whose dimensions exceed 10 cm and are sporadically reported in the literature. Although there are multiple treatment modalities, there are currently no treatment guidelines or consensus on the best therapeutic approach for giant pancreatic pseudocysts. We [...] Read more.

Giant pancreatic pseudocysts are considered those cysts whose dimensions exceed 10 cm and are sporadically reported in the literature. Although there are multiple treatment modalities, there are currently no treatment guidelines or consensus on the best therapeutic approach for giant pancreatic pseudocysts. We report the case of a 32-year-old male patient with a giant pancreatic pseudocyst after an episode of acute pancreatitis, which was treated by internal surgical drainage through cyst-jejunal anastomosis. This surgical procedure was followed by the formation of a retroperitoneal abscess which was resolved by ultrasound-guided drainage. The subsequent evolution of the patient was favorable, without other complications. Given their complex anatomical relations, the treatment of giant pseudocysts requires strategies adapted to the local conditions. The optimal choice of the operative time and of the therapeutic strategy is based on clinical considerations and the effectiveness of the method used can be assessed by a long-term follow-up. Full article

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Open AccessCase Report

Asymptomatic Jejunal Metastatic Melanoma. A Case Report of Anemia of Uncertain Origin

by Cornelia Nitipir, Andreea Parosanu, Cristina Orlov-Slavu, Cătălin Piriianu, Radu Vrabie, Iulian Slavu and Valentin Calu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 187-192; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P187192 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Gastrointestinal metastases from cutaneous melanoma are rare and usually asymptomatic, with most patients not being clinically diagnosed throughout their lifetime. We report a case of how melanoma may metastasize insidiously in the small bowel. Unexplained iron deficiency anemia was assumed to be the [...] Read more.

Gastrointestinal metastases from cutaneous melanoma are rare and usually asymptomatic, with most patients not being clinically diagnosed throughout their lifetime. We report a case of how melanoma may metastasize insidiously in the small bowel. Unexplained iron deficiency anemia was assumed to be the result of underlying gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, the diagnosis of jejunal metastasis from cutaneous melanoma was suggested based on imaging findings and made through the histopathological examination. According to the international guidelines, the patient underwent the complete excision of the primary tumor and therapeutic lymph node dissection. Furthermore, an adjuvant treatment was required to reduce the risk of recurrence. Both immunotherapy and surgical therapy have been shown to be effective, providing long-term survival in this case. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Decreased Cognition Is Associated with Altered Cardiovascular Autonomic Functions and Decreased Baroreflex Sensitivity in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome

by Jothi Marie Feula, Dhanalakshmi Yerrabelli, Gopal Krushna Pal and Soundirarajan Subhashri

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 181-186; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P181186 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a clinical entity of concern in women of reproductive age group with its onset during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle that typically resolves within a few days after the onset of menstruation. Female reproductive hormones stimulate [...] Read more.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a clinical entity of concern in women of reproductive age group with its onset during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle that typically resolves within a few days after the onset of menstruation. Female reproductive hormones stimulate the gene promotor region of Gonadal steroids, which are modulators of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, in association with the autonomic nervous system (ANS), form the stress system, which regulates the homeostatic mechanisms of the body. Disruption of this mechanism can lead to sympathovagal imbalance and cognitive deficits. Objectives: This study was aimed to compare the autonomic functions and cognition between PMS and control group. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted as a pilot study with 20 subjects in each group. Autonomic function test and P300 were recorded. Study participants were also asked to answer Montreal cognitive assessment (MOCA) questionnaire. Results: On comparison of the test results between the two groups, individuals in PMS group were found to have increased sympathetic activity and reduced cognition when compared to the no PMS (control) group. Conclusion: The findings from this study proves a detrimental effect of gonadal steroids on autonomic nervous system and cognition. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Transabdominal Pre-Peritoneal Repair Procedure (TAPP) Versus Open Hernia Repair (OHR) in the Treatment of Inguinal Hernia

by Victor Dumitrescu, Dan Dumitrescu, Paul Lorin Stoica, George Draghici and Alexandru Chirca

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 175-180; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P175180 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Inguinal hernia is a common condition, with about 30% of men and 6% of women developing this condition throughout their lifetime. Laparoscopic hernia repair procedures have become more and more important lately, due to the advantages of a fast recovery and reduced postoperative [...] Read more.

Inguinal hernia is a common condition, with about 30% of men and 6% of women developing this condition throughout their lifetime. Laparoscopic hernia repair procedures have become more and more important lately, due to the advantages of a fast recovery and reduced postoperative pain. The paper presents our clinical experience involving the TAPP repair procedure, compared to open hernia repair (OHR). We retrospectively compared our first 50 cases comprising patients who underwent the TAPP hernia repair procedure between January 2018 and June 2020, with 50 cases who underwent the OHR procedure in the same period. The total operation duration was 102.5 minutes in the TAPP group and 78.4 minutes in the OHR group. The average hospital stay in the TAPP group was 1.5 days with six patients requiring reinterventions for postoperative bleeding and who were discharged seven to nine days later. There is still no consensus regarding the use of tacks and/or the surgical glue, the surgeon's experience and the intraoperative findings representing a cornerstone in choosing the best repair method for each case. Laparoscopic hernia repair has some advantages over the open technique, but it can be followed by complications that can further raise parameters. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Surgical Management of Pancreatic Pseudocysts—Outcomes on a Group of Seven Patients

by Mihai Faur, Andrei Moisin, Alexandru Dan Sabau and Dan Sabau

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 168-174; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P168174 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 20

Abstract

The pancreatic pseudocyst represents the main complication that occurred 3 to 6 weeks after an outbreak of acute or chronic pancreatitis represented by a collection containing pancreatic enzymes without their own epithelial wall. In the present paper, we present a study performed on [...] Read more.

The pancreatic pseudocyst represents the main complication that occurred 3 to 6 weeks after an outbreak of acute or chronic pancreatitis represented by a collection containing pancreatic enzymes without their own epithelial wall. In the present paper, we present a study performed on 7 patients admitted to the Surgical Department of Sibiu County Emergency Clinical Hospital who were diagnosed with pancreatic pseudocyst between 2016 and 2020, and the drainage of the mini-invasive pancreatic pseudocyst by an incision in the right lumbar area, in the case of a 53-year-old patient known to have a history of multiple cardiac defects, the pancreatic pseudocyst being discovered approximately 6 months before, for which the patient underwent conservative treatment, and who had 5 resuscitated cardio-respiratory arrests throughout the evolution. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Pain Management in the Right Iliac Fossa During the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Daniel Ovidiu Costea, Lucian Serbanescu, Diana Badiu, Valeriu Ardeleanu, Cristian Mihai Branescu, Anca Zgura and Andreea Cristina Costea

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 162-167; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P162167 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 39

Abstract

Abdominal pain in the right iliac fossa in women may be caused by a complicated ovarian cyst, adnexitis, and appendicitis. The paper analyses the characteristics of patients with right iliac fossa pain admitted during the Covid-19 pandemic. A retrospective analysis on 25 cases [...] Read more.

Abdominal pain in the right iliac fossa in women may be caused by a complicated ovarian cyst, adnexitis, and appendicitis. The paper analyses the characteristics of patients with right iliac fossa pain admitted during the Covid-19 pandemic. A retrospective analysis on 25 cases with abdominal pain in the right iliac fossa admitted to “St. Apostol Andrei” Emergency County Clinical Hospital Constanta, Romania between March 2020 and March 2021 was performed. In 52% of the cases, the symptomatology remitted with antispasmodics, 4 (16%) patients had cystic torsion and right adnexectomy (group A, without adnexa), 6 (24%) patients had ruptured cysts and right cystectomy, and 2 (8%) had immediate cystectomy together with appendectomy due to signs of peritoneal irritation (group B, adnexa retained). The age, the signs and the symptoms, as well as the inpatient diagnosis in group A were lower compared to patients in group B. The ovarian cyst can become a major surgical emergency if twisted or ruptured and it reaches an important vascular source, especially if it is associated with acute appendicitis, which often poses problems of differential diagnosis. The collaboration between gynecologists and surgeons is essential in the optimal therapeutic solution of these cases. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Colonic Diverticulosis—Diagnostic and Therapeutic Difficulties

by Cristian Meșină, Theodor Viorel Dumitrescu, Mihai Calin Ciorbagiu, Cosmin Vasile Obleaga, Ionica Daniel Vilcea and Mihaela Iustina Mesina-Botoran

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 152-161; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P152161 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Objectives. The objectives of this study are to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties in patients with complicated acute colonic diverticulosis. Methods. The study group comprised 40 patients hospitalized to the Second Surgical Clinic of the Emergency County Hospital in Craiova, Romania, through [...] Read more.

Objectives. The objectives of this study are to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties in patients with complicated acute colonic diverticulosis. Methods. The study group comprised 40 patients hospitalized to the Second Surgical Clinic of the Emergency County Hospital in Craiova, Romania, through the emergency service between 2015 and 2021. Regarding the sex distribution of the patients with colonic diverticular disease studied, there was a predominance of males. The distribution of patients was as follows: 22 patients with acute colonic diverticulitis, out of whom 21 patients suffered from left acute colonic diverticulitis and 1 patient suffered from right acute colonic diverticulitis. Results. The diagnosis of acute colonic diverticulitis was made by corroborating the data obtained on the objective clinical examination with the data obtained by exploring the abdomen by means of computed tomography, which revealed a thickening of the colon wall (acute sigmoid diverticulitis predominated). The treatment applied to patients with acute diverticulitis was conservative and in patients with acute perforated colonic diverticulitis, the treatment of choice was the surgical one. Mortality was 7.5% of all the cases. Conclusions. In patients with perforated colonic diverticular disease, the administered treatment consisted in Hartmann segmental colectomy, wound care, peritoneal drainage. The reintegration of the colon in the digestive transit was performed after 3–6 months. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Laparoscopic Versus Open Surgical Treatment of Umbilical Hernia

by Andrei Moisin, Mihai Faur, Carmen Popa, Claudia Diana Gherman, Victor Dumitrescu, Denisa Tanasescu, Adrian Boicean, Simona Balasescu, Meda Comandasu, Dan Dumitrescu, Anca Zgura and Calin Mohor

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 143-151; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P143151 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Umbilical hernia is one of the types of ventral hernias of the abdominal wall and it represents the externalization of a part of the abdominal contents through a defect of the anterior abdominal wall located in the umbilical region. It is estimated that [...] Read more.

Umbilical hernia is one of the types of ventral hernias of the abdominal wall and it represents the externalization of a part of the abdominal contents through a defect of the anterior abdominal wall located in the umbilical region. It is estimated that more than 20 million abdominal wall hernia surgeries are performed worldwide each year. The paper presents a retrospective study on the patients diagnosed with umbilical hernia and admitted to the First and Second Surgery Departments of the Sibiu County Emergency Clinical Hospital. The study includes 82 cases diagnosed with umbilical hernias over a period of 4 years, between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2020. Open and laparoscopic surgical techniques are compared in terms of outcomes and postoperative complications. Most cases of umbilical hernia were within the age group 51–70 years, with a slightly higher incidence in males. Arterial hypertension and obesity were the most frequent comorbidities. The alloplastic, classic or laparoscopic procedure became the most widely used due to benefits such as: rapid socio-professional reintegration, short-term hospitalization and low incidence of relapses and postoperative complications. The current trend is for the IPOM laparoscopic procedure to become the gold standard in the treatment of umbilical hernias. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Menopausal Symptoms: Prediction of Quality of Marital Relationship Among Couples

by Noshi Iram Zaman, Sundas Shakoor and Shazia Yusuf

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 133-142; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P133142 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Objective. The current study determined the association between menopausal symptoms and marital quality of life, and explored the role of several demographic variables (education, occupation, and income) on these symptoms. Materials and Methods. The purposive sample included 180 married couples. Wives [...] Read more.

Objective. The current study determined the association between menopausal symptoms and marital quality of life, and explored the role of several demographic variables (education, occupation, and income) on these symptoms. Materials and Methods. The purposive sample included 180 married couples. Wives experiencing premenopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause 35 to 60 years old (M = 45.21 & SD = 7.47) were recruited from Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Two assessment instruments were used: Menopause Rating Scale—MRS for menopausal symptoms, and ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale—EMS for quality of marital relationship. Results. Wives’ quality of marital relationship was not significantly predicted by menopausal symptoms whereas husbands’ quality of marital relationship was significantly predicted by psychological (but not physical) symptoms of menopause. Also, several differences in menopausal symptoms and quality of marital relationship were found in relation to demographic variables. Conclusions. Clinicians should consider the relevance of psychological symptoms of menopause, and not just physical symptoms, in relationship assessment, a result that has research, practice, education and public health implications. Furthermore, possible cultural differences in the perception of menopausal effects should be addressed in greater depth. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Comparison of Local Tumor Control After Microwave Ablation, Surgical Resection and Combined Treatment for Colorectal Liver Metastases

by Fatma Zeynep Güngören, Cengiz Erol, Ahmet Bilici, Murat Dayangaç, Mehmet Şeker, Ömer Fatih Ölmez, Onur Yaprak, Özcan Yıldız and Mustafa Öncel

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 125-132; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P125132 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Aim. We aimed to compare the local therapeutic efficiency of microwave ablation (MWA), surgical resection, and combined treatment, assess the outcomes, and identify predictive factors for local treatment response in colorectal liver metastases (CLMs). Methods. From March 2013 to September 2019, a total [...] Read more.

Aim. We aimed to compare the local therapeutic efficiency of microwave ablation (MWA), surgical resection, and combined treatment, assess the outcomes, and identify predictive factors for local treatment response in colorectal liver metastases (CLMs). Methods. From March 2013 to September 2019, a total of 54 patients with 302 CLMs were enrolled in this retrospective study. Eleven patients (20.4%) were treated with MWA, 9 patients (16.7%) with surgery, and 34 patients (63%) with the combined method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate overall survival (OS) and hepatic progression-free survival (HPFS) using the Cox proportional hazard regression model. The logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictive factors for the local treatment response. Results. Total treatment response was achieved in 46.3% (n = 25) of the patients. Local tumor progression was seen in 7.4% (n = 4) of the patients, and the rate of intrahepatic distal recurrence was 46.3% (n = 25). There were no significant differences in HPFS and OS between the three groups (p = 0.56 and 0.90, respectively). Younger age (<60), smaller (≤2 cm) or fewer (≤3) liver metastases, and wild-type RAS were predictive for higher rates of local treatment response (OR 0.22, 95% CI 0.15–0.93, p = 0.04; OR 1.12, 95% CI 0.54–2.12, p = 0.029; OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.97–2.37, p = 0.035; OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.10–0.85, p = 0.028, respectively). Conclusions. The results of this study reveal that the use of MWA, alone or combined with resection, may achieve high local treatment response and similar survival rates compared to patients undergoing resection, suggesting that MWA could potentially be preferred over surgical procedures. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Diet and Food Chemicals Increasing the Risk of Colorectal Cancer—Literature Review

by Mihail Silviu Tudosie, Andreea Pauna, Cristian Stefani and Iulia Madalina Staicu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 118-124; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P118124 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 28

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is a common form of cancer nowadays. There are many risk factors in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. The malignant proliferation is caused by one or more genetic mutations, which activate oncogenes and deactivate tumor suppressor genes. Some factors cannot be [...] Read more.

Colorectal cancer is a common form of cancer nowadays. There are many risk factors in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. The malignant proliferation is caused by one or more genetic mutations, which activate oncogenes and deactivate tumor suppressor genes. Some factors cannot be changed, such as a person's age or family history. An essential aspect in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer is the choice of lifestyles, such as a high-fat diet, smoking, and excess alcohol. Carcinogens can be either natural or chemical. The mechanisms by which carcinogens initiate tumor formation are genetic or non-genotoxic. The most common form of colorectal cancer is found in people who ingest chemicals that, once ingested, reach the large intestine, thus causing malignant lesions. The Western diet and the metabolic syndrome are risk factors for colorectal cancer, due to gut microbiota changes and low-grade chronic inflammation. Among the most important diet carcinogens are nitrosamines, hydrazines, organophosphates, acetaldehyde, and heterocyclic amines. Screening programs, especially among people over 50 years of age, and with multiple risk factors are extremely important in detecting colorectal cancers in the early stages and in improving the long-term prognosis in such patients. Full article

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Open AccessReview

The Obstetrical Management of HIV-Positive Pregnancy

by Mihai George Loghin, Petre Gabriel Gorescki, Romina Marina Sima, Liana Pleș, Daniela Gabriela Balan, Ioana Paunica and Oana Denisa Bălălău

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 111-117; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P111117 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a real public health problem in both developing and developed countries. HIV infection has not been treated efficiently for a long time, with HIV-positive women at increased risk of transmitting the infection to their newborns. Without [...] Read more.

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a real public health problem in both developing and developed countries. HIV infection has not been treated efficiently for a long time, with HIV-positive women at increased risk of transmitting the infection to their newborns. Without the appropriate treatment, the evolution of the infection is relatively fast. Due to the antiretroviral treatment, the progression of the disease is blocked during the period of asymptomatic infection, and the risk of neonatal transmission is very low. HIV-positive patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy develop undetectable viremia and, in such situations, patients no longer have a risk of transmitting the infection. The antiretroviral medication is a combination of several classes of drugs (protease inhibitors, nucleoside and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, integrase inhibitors and CCR5 inhibitors) whose aim is to stop the viral replication at different stages. The infection is most often transmitted in the perinatal period, so it is very important that we know the maternal viremia and choose the type of birth with the lowest risk of transmitting the infection to the fetus. For this reason, any HIV-positive patient with detectable viremia at childbirth should receive treatment during labor and delivery, with a nucleoside or non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor that crosses the fetal-placental barrier. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Acetaminophen, a Therapeutic or an Extremely Toxic Remedy—A Review

by Genica Caragea, Oana Avram, Andreea Pauna, Andreea Cristina Costea and Miruna Tudosie

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 102-110; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P102110 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 47

Abstract

When a new coronavirus appeared in the late 2019, identified as the cause of several cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, Paracetamol was initially reported to be the preferable antipyretic medication, choice which was detrimental to the use of other drugs. People have resorted [...] Read more.

When a new coronavirus appeared in the late 2019, identified as the cause of several cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, Paracetamol was initially reported to be the preferable antipyretic medication, choice which was detrimental to the use of other drugs. People have resorted to buying large stocks of Paracetamol and some have used it in large doses, regardless of the consequences. However, the Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) overdose remains the leading cause of death or transplantation due to acute liver failure in many parts of the world. This review aims at presenting the pharmacokinetics, the clinical signs, and the risk factors for systemic toxicity associated with Paracetamol overdose, as well as the current therapeutic approach. Paracetamol is primarily metabolized in the liver, by glucuronidation and sulfation. In case of a Paracetamol overdose, a large amount of NAPQI is conjugated with glutathione, and this process is due to a major depletion of glutathione, thus leading to hepatic necrosis, renal failure, and encephalopathy. The evaluation of serum acetaminophen levels by analytical methods is extremely useful both for the diagnosis and the therapy monitoring. Full article

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Open AccessReview

The Benign Mimickers of Carcinoma on Breast MRI

by Irmak Durur-Subasi, Adem Karaman, Elif Demirci, Sare Sipal and Mufide Nuran Akcay

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 96-101; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P96101 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 27

Abstract

The similarity between benign and malignant pathologies on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a wide-ranging variability of the lesions from benign proliferative changes to invasive breast carcinoma cause a lower and wide-ranging specificity of breast MRI relative to its surpass sensitivity. A wide [...] Read more.

The similarity between benign and malignant pathologies on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a wide-ranging variability of the lesions from benign proliferative changes to invasive breast carcinoma cause a lower and wide-ranging specificity of breast MRI relative to its surpass sensitivity. A wide range of tissue components such as the skin, the adipose tissue, vascular and neural tissues, connective tissues, glandular tissues, ducts, and muscle tissues are found here all together. This pictorial review was aimed at deliberating benign mimickers of breast carcinoma on MRI and trying to call attention to the overlapping and distinctive features. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Modern Interpretation of Risk Factors in Breast Cancer of Women

by Oana Denisa Bălălău, Răzvan Valentin Scăunașu, Octavian Gabriel Olaru, Anca Silvia Dumitriu, Stana Paunica, Liliana Florina Andronache and Anca Daniela Stănescu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 88-95; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P8895 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Breast cancer is a major public health problem, being the most common cancer diagnosed in women and accounting for more than 1 in 10 new diagnoses of cancer each year. It is the most common neoplasm of women under the age of 40 [...] Read more.

Breast cancer is a major public health problem, being the most common cancer diagnosed in women and accounting for more than 1 in 10 new diagnoses of cancer each year. It is the most common neoplasm of women under the age of 40 and the second leading cause of cancer death in this age group, with more frequent detection of pathogenic mutations in breast cancer susceptibility genes. Women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are about 70% more likely to develop breast cancer. The incidence is rising in most countries and it is expected to have a growing trend in the next 20 years, despite the current efforts to prevent the disease. In order to improve the survival rate, it is necessary to make a diagnosis as early as possible and to initiate the appropriate therapeutic management as soon as possible. Therefore, in order to detect breast formations, mammography screening is very important, breast density being an important factor in predicting the risk of breast cancer. Thus, the presence of high breast density represents a 4–6 times higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to women with low breast density. Aging and menopause are also risk factors for breast cancer. Hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women has the benefit of relieving symptoms such as hot flashes, depression or sleep disturbances, but it increases the risk of developing breast cancer. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Anxiety Sensitivity, Uncertainty and Recursive Thinking: A Continuum on Cyberchondria Conditions During the COVID Outbreak

by Carmela Mento, Maria Catena Silvestri, Pilar Amezaga, Maria R. Anna Muscatello, Valentina Romeo, Antonio Bruno and Clemente Cedro

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 78-87; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P7887 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Background. Cyberchondria is a term used to refer to excessive surfing the web looking for health care information, excessive checking behavior being related to health-related anxiety. This period of quarantine for the Covid-19 pandemic is increasing the pathological use of the internet, [...] Read more.

Background. Cyberchondria is a term used to refer to excessive surfing the web looking for health care information, excessive checking behavior being related to health-related anxiety. This period of quarantine for the Covid-19 pandemic is increasing the pathological use of the internet, and the excessive surfing the web looking for health care information. Another dimension related to the Covid-19 outbreak refers to uncertainty intolerance, for this reason being necessary for the healthcare professionals to provide clear and linear information. Aim. The aim of this review is to identify the psychological correlations connected to cyberchondria in the quarantine period. Methods. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a systematic review of the literature on PubMed. The terms used for the search were “Cyberchondria” OR “Anxiety” AND “Quarantine”. Results. As resulting from the reviewed literature, there is a relationship between anxiety for one’s own state of health and cyberchondria, with negative psychological effects of quarantine, including post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, anxiety, low mood, irritability, insomnia, uncertainty, emotional exhaustion, this condition being associated with hypervigilance, and catastrophic misinterpretation of bodily signs. Conclusions. In the light of this and according to the literature, it would be desirable that research can further explore the factors influencing the increase in cyberchondria in the future. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Current Therapeutic Approach

by Adrian Silaghi, Vlad Denis Constantin, Bogdan Socea, Petrișor Banu, Vladimir Sandu, Liliana Florina Andronache, Anca Silvia Dumitriu and Stana Paunica

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 56-77; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P5677 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 31

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of conditions of unknown etiology, represented by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and characterized by the presence of intestinal wall inflammation. From the first cases described to date, several studies have been performed to elucidate the cause [...] Read more.

Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of conditions of unknown etiology, represented by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and characterized by the presence of intestinal wall inflammation. From the first cases described to date, several studies have been performed to elucidate the cause of inflammatory bowel disease. Generally, the genetic factors predispose to their occurrence while epigenetic and environmental factors trigger them. Genetic factors are mutations of the genes involved in the response and recognition of immune cells to different pathogens. The most studied epigenetic and environmental factors are smoking (which predisposes to Crohn’s disease and can be protective for ulcerative colitis), lack of vitamin D, a diet rich in sugars and low in flavonoids and fibers. The diagnosis is usually established by endoscopy and biopsy. Recent technologies can perform live biopsies such as endocytoscopy or confocal laser endomicroscopy, with an accuracy of 100% compared to classical methods. Therapy involves several classes of drugs, preferably in association with diet and lifestyle changes. In case of complications or in non-responsive diseases, surgery must be considered, as documented for ulcerative colitis that can be cured by removing the entire colon. The purpose of this review is to present recent findings on pathology, as well as modern diagnosis and treatment methods for IBD. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Laboratory Findings in COVID-19—Alterations of Hematological, Immunological, Biochemical, Hormonal and Other Lab Panels: A Narrative Review

by Yousef Rasmi, Lucas Paulo Jacinto Saavedra, Matei-Alexandru Cozma, Heba A.S. El-Nashar, Shaza H. Aly, Nouran M. Fahmy, Omayma A. Eldahshan, Mohamed El-Shazly, Elena-Codruța Dobrică, Hamed Kord-Varkaneh, Camelia Cristina Diaconu and Mihnea-Alexandru Găman

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 38-55; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P3855 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 47

Abstract

Up to the present date, according to the official reports of the World Health Organization (WHO), 205,338,159 patients have been confirmed with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and 4,333,094 have died as a consequence of this infectious disorder. The majority of COVID-19 patients will [...] Read more.

Up to the present date, according to the official reports of the World Health Organization (WHO), 205,338,159 patients have been confirmed with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and 4,333,094 have died as a consequence of this infectious disorder. The majority of COVID-19 patients will develop hematological, biochemical, immunological, hormonal and other complex alterations of their laboratory data which may be diagnosed using different biomarkers. In this paper, we review the alterations of the hematology, immunology, biochemistry, hormonal and other laboratory panels discovered in the subjects diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection, based on the available data in the literature. Full article

372 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biostimulation with Low-Level Laser Therapy and Its Effects on Soft and Hard Tissue Regeneration. Literature Review

by Anida Maria Babtan, Aranka Ilea, Claudia Nicoleta Feurdean, Sabino Ceci, Berate Pula, Sebastian Candrea, Daniela Azzollini, Fabio Piras, Luigi Curatoli, Alberto Corriero, Assunta Patano, Francesco Valente, Maria Elena Maggiore, Antonio Mancini, Delia Giovanniello, Ludovica Nucci, Rossella Elia, Adina Sirbu, Nausica Bianca Petrescu, Codruta Mirica, Andrea Galderisi and Filippo Cardarelli Show full author list Hide full author list

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 28-37; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P2837 - 10 Apr 2022

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Abstract

Objective. Low-Level Laser Therapy encourages the healing process, reduces inflammation and pain. The aim of this study is to identify the impact of Low-Level Laser Therapy on tissue regeneration with special attention to hard tissues and to compare the effect of several [...] Read more.

Objective. Low-Level Laser Therapy encourages the healing process, reduces inflammation and pain. The aim of this study is to identify the impact of Low-Level Laser Therapy on tissue regeneration with special attention to hard tissues and to compare the effect of several wave lengths in the proliferation and differentiation of cells. Methods. The keywords used were “bone regeneration”, “laser therapy”, “photobiomodulation” OR “bio-stimulation”, “Low-Level Laser therapy” OR “LLLT”, “osteoblast proliferation” AND “differentiation”. Results. The bio-stimulation with Low-Level Laser Therapy also seems to interfere with the osseous integration of implants, by increasing its adherence on the bone-implant surfaces. Evidence has shown that Low-Level Laser Therapy influences the cellular proliferation and differentiation. Conclusions. Low-Level Laser Therapy is a promising therapy in the field of regeneration, but further studies are needed in order to define the standard protocol. Full article

288 KiB

Open AccessReview

The VESPA Project: Virtual Reality Interventions for Neurocognitive and Developmental Disorders

by Emanuele Maria Merlo, Liam Alexander MacKenzie Myles and Salvatore Marco Pappalardo

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 16-27; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P1627 - 10 Apr 2022

Viewed by 26

Abstract

VESPA is a financed project supported by the Sicilian Regional Research and Development funds, and it is structured by the development, research and validation of Virtual Reality (VR) based application for the diagnosis and treatment of neurocognitive conditions. In particular, this article presents [...] Read more.

VESPA is a financed project supported by the Sicilian Regional Research and Development funds, and it is structured by the development, research and validation of Virtual Reality (VR) based application for the diagnosis and treatment of neurocognitive conditions. In particular, this article presents its characteristics, referred to as the first (2013–2015) and second (2021–ongoing) generations of VESPA, with particular reference to literature regarding the VR technology application and development, the VR treatment of neurocognitive conditions and prior versions of this intervention. Through a comprehensive review of the research conducted over the last 5 years, evidence has emerged supporting VESPA’s aim and scopes, highlighting how the application of VR can be considered to add value to typical rehabilitation/therapeutic paths. VESPA project generations are then presented in detail, including specific session/task battery characteristics, 2.5D, 3D and 5D typologies, system usability and architecture and pathological domain-based dynamics and features. The discussion about VESPA will highlight the current advantages along with limitations and future directions. Full article

333 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Involvement of Oxidative Stress in Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas; A Review of the Literature

by Ramona Ingrid Corbeanu and Amelia Maria Găman

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2022, 9(1), 1-15; https://doi.org/10.22543/7674.91.P115 - 10 Apr 2022

Viewed by 37

Abstract

Non-Hodgkin’s malignant lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of hematological malignancies, characterized by a variety of clinical, morphological, histopathological, immuno-histochemical, molecular and evolutionary features. They represent a form of cancer that develops from the lymphatic tissue, as a result of the malignant transformation of [...] Read more.

Non-Hodgkin’s malignant lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of hematological malignancies, characterized by a variety of clinical, morphological, histopathological, immuno-histochemical, molecular and evolutionary features. They represent a form of cancer that develops from the lymphatic tissue, as a result of the malignant transformation of B (85%) or T (15%) lymphocytes. Lymphomagenesis is described as a multi-stage process involving the mutation and proliferation of cell clones. Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance of cellular redox status caused by the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or by decreasing antioxidant systems that allows their accumulation in the cell. Small quantities of ROS are involved in physiological mechanisms such as cell growth and differentiation, cell signaling, antimicrobial defense, phagocytosis. Normally, cells are capable of defending themselves against ROS damage through various scavenger systems. On the other hand, excessive ROS contribute to various diseases such as carcinogenesis, ischemia, atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases. Oxidative stress exerts noxious effects on the cell structures by inducing structural changes in membranes, lipids, proteins or DNA. The present review summarizes the latest findings in understanding the ROS-linked signaling pathways in the initiation of lymphomagenesis, disease progression, metastasis, as well as in the pharmacodynamics of specific treatments for this malignancy. Full article

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J. Mind Med. Sci., Volume 9, Issue 1 (April 2022) – 22 articles

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