Ioana Para | University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Iuliu Hatieganu" Cluj-Napoca (original) (raw)

Papers by Ioana Para

HVM Bioflux, 2017

1,2Vlad Dudric, 1Nicolae Constantea, 1Dan Axente, 1Horațiu Silaghi, 1Daciana Chirilă, 1Tudor Pop,... more 1,2Vlad Dudric, 1Nicolae Constantea, 1Dan Axente, 1Horațiu Silaghi, 1Daciana Chirilă, 1Tudor Pop, 3Ioana Para, 2Adrian Maghiar 1 Department of Surgery, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 2 University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Oradea, Romania; 3 Vth Department of Internal Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

Romanian Journal of Medical Practice, 2021

Negative attitudes regarding obese adolescents are learned early in life. Weight stigmatizing exp... more Negative attitudes regarding obese adolescents are learned early in life. Weight stigmatizing experiences occur frequently in the context of personal relationships with peers, teachers, family members, and health professionals. Adolescents’ weight stigma is insufficiently considered in the obesity’s management, and this contributes to negative health outcomes and behaviors that act as obesogenic factors into adulthood. Primary care professionals provide opportunity for translating expert recommendations for healthy behavior changes of obese adolescents, having facilities and staff to implement them in the community. However, comprehensive programs for controlling body weight and stigmatizing obese adolescents are not sufficiently addressed in primary care because they require psycho-educational skills development and dedicated time. In the framework of the curricular reform of the family medicine residency program a study design in the community served by the family physician traine...

Balneo Research Journal, Dec 1, 2017

Introduction. Renal impairment and neurological symptoms are common manifestations of Fabry disea... more Introduction. Renal impairment and neurological symptoms are common manifestations of Fabry disease. Although rare, Fabry disease should be taken into consideration when consulting a patient who presents with neurological and renal impairment, acroparesthesia and fatigue. The aim of this paper is to discuss the case of a female patient presenting with mild systemic symptoms and consequent renal impairment. Case report. The female patient, aged 64, presented for a painful ankle swelling, acroparesthesias, nycturia and fatigue. We diagnosed a gout attack, but found that she had biological signs of renal impairment, aggravated by the use of non-steroidian anti-inflammatory drugs. The search for an etiology of her renal failure proved difficult because she refused the kidney biopsy. The positivity of pANCA antibodies added another potential cause of kidney disease. The mild deficiency of alphagalactosidase could not fully support the diagnosis of Fabry disease. Discussions and conclusions. In women, Fabry disease should be suspected even if the symptomatology is not typical and as severe as in men. It is difficult to diagnose the Fabry disease in a female patient with chronic kidney disease, because of its polymorphic manifestations and association with other comorbidities, in our case, pANCA vasculitis.

American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs, 2006

ABSTRACT

Medicine and Pharmacy Reports

Background and aim. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of prior anticoagulant treat... more Background and aim. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of prior anticoagulant treatment on the characteristics of intracranial hematomas. Methods. We included in this retrospective study 135 patients who were diagnosed with subdural hematoma in the context of traumatic brain injury. We recorded the demographic and clinical data, the paraclinical examinations and the characteristics of subdural hematoma evidenced by preoperative computed tomography (CT). We also reported the other brain injuries, entailed by primary and secondary lesions, as described by CT. Results. The anticoagulation therapy was recorded in 35 patients, at the moment of diagnosis. Acute subdural hematoma was recorded in 89 (65.9%) patients, 21 (60%) of these had anticoagulation therapy on admission. There were 46 (34.1%) patients with chronic subdural hematoma, 14 (40%) of these were on anticoagulant therapy. The midline shift was significantly moved in patients with anticoagulation therapy. The thic...

Biomedical Papers of the Faculty of Medicine of Palacký University, Olomouc Czech Republic, Sep 5, 2022

Arterial stiffness and degenerative aortic stenosis (AoS) are frequently associated leading to a ... more Arterial stiffness and degenerative aortic stenosis (AoS) are frequently associated leading to a combined valvular and vascular load imposed on the left ventricle (LV). Vascular load consists of a pulsatile load represented by arterial stiffness and a steady load corresponding to vascular resistance. Increased vascular load in AoS has been associated with LV dysfunction and poor prognosis in pre-intervention state, as well as after aortic valve replacement (AVR), suggesting that the evaluation of arterial load in AoS may have clinical benefits. Nevertheless, studies that investigated arterial stiffness in AoS either before or after AVR used various methods of measurement and their results are conflicting. The aim of the present review was to summarize the main pathophysiological mechanisms which may explain the complex valvulo-arterial interplay in AoS and their consequences on LV structure and function on the patients' outcome. Future larger studies are needed to clarify the complex hemodynamic modifications produced by increased vascular load in AoS and its changes after AVR. Prospective evaluation is needed to confirm the prognostic value of arterial stiffness in patients with AoS. Simple, non-invasive, reliable methods which must be validated in AoS still remain to be established before implementing arterial stiffness measurement in patients with AoS in clinical practice.

Medicina, 2021

Adipokines are active molecules with pleiotropic effects produced by adipose tissue and involved ... more Adipokines are active molecules with pleiotropic effects produced by adipose tissue and involved in obesity-related metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Arterial stiffness, which is a consequence of arteriosclerosis, has been shown to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The pathogenesis of arterial stiffness is complex but incompletely understood. Adipokines dysregulation may induce, by various mechanisms, vascular inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular remodeling, leading to increased arterial stiffness. This article summarizes literature data regarding adipokine-related pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the development of arterial stiffness, particularly in obesity, as well as the results of clinical and epidemiological studies which investigated the relationship between adipokines and arterial stiffness.

Balneo Research Journal, 2019

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are extensively used worldwide due to their analge... more Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are extensively used worldwide due to their analgesic, antipyretic and antiinflammatory effects. NSAIDs (both non-selective NSAIDs and selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors) have nephrotoxic potential, particularly when used chronically.The principal mechanism of action of NSAIDs is cyclooxygenase inhibition, which prevents the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, prostacyclins and thromboxanes. In the kidney, prostaglandins induce vasodilation and counter the action of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the sympathetic nervous system, ensuring optimal renal perfusion. Inhibition of this mechanism by NSAIDs can result in renal damage: acute kidney injury through hemodynamic mechanism, acute interstitial nephritis, glomerular disease, papillary necrosis, water and electrolyte imbalances, HTN. Chronic NSAID use may lead to chronic kidney disease.The nephrotoxic effect is reduced in young patients without renal disease or other comorbidities, but increases significantly in elderly patients with pre-existing kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, severe congestive heart failure, volume depletion, cirrhosis with ascites, HTN, atherosclerosis, or in patients under treatment with diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor inhibitors.

Iranian Journal of Public Health, 2020

Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society, 2020

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition that occurs in genetically predisposed people wher... more Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition that occurs in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten produces damage in the small intestine. The treatment accepted until now is a strict gluten free diet. This implies the need for novel or adjuvant treatments, in addition to the standard of care. The present study aimed to assess the effect of gold nanoparticles phytosynthesized with Cornus mas extract (AuCM) compared to Cornus mas extract (CM) and luteolin (LT) on Caco-2 cells, exposed or not to gliadin. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used for the characterization of AuCM. Measured cellular outcomes included oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde level, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities), inflammatory response and cellular signaling and transcription factors involved in apoptosis (NFκB, pNFκB, NOS2, TNF-α, TRAIL, Bax, Bcl-2, p53). The internalization of gold nanoparticles in cells was evidenced by transm...

Case report The 73-year-old patient from the rural environment, retired, with a history of hypert... more Case report The 73-year-old patient from the rural environment, retired, with a history of hypertension, with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (controlled by diet and antidiabetic drugs since 2006), antral erythematous gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, second grade internal hemorrhoids, who underwent cholecystectomy and subtotal hysterectomy for uterine fibroids in 1973, presented for diffuse abdominal pain, more pronounced in the umbilical region, the left hypochondrium and the bilateral flanks. She also accused associated appetite loss, asthenia and fatigue. Symptoms had an insidious onset about 40 years ago, characterized by abdominal pain experienced “all over the abdomen” that sometimes irradiates in the lumbar region, with a nonspecific character, manifested by ‘permanent’ stinging, stabbing or pressure of varying intensity for about 40 years, with very short calm periods. The associated general symptoms are characterized by ‘weakness’, ‘malaise’, ‘irritation’, the patient describi...

In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30‐day mortality i... more In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30‐day mortality in patients with acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) who underwent surgical intervention after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We conducted a retrospective study, which included a cohort of 135 consecutive patients diagnosed with ASDH who required surgical evacuation. We assessed the demographic and clinical data, the imaging data of the hematoma described by preoperative computed tomography (CT) and the type of neurosurgical intervention for hematoma evacuation via either craniectomy or craniotomy. The patients were followed up for 30 days after head trauma and the occurrence of death was noted. Death was recorded in 63 (46.6%) patients at 30 days after TBI. There was a significant number of deceased patients who underwent craniectomy (71.4%). The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was statistically significantly lower in patients who died (P<0.001), with a cut‐off value of ≤12, under which the probab...

Bacterial toxin poisoning Clostridium botulinum Human disease due to the Clostridium botulinum ba... more Bacterial toxin poisoning Clostridium botulinum Human disease due to the Clostridium botulinum bacterium is called botulism and is classified as poisoning because it is due to botulinum neurotoxins produced outside the human body by this anaerobic bacterium. Contaminated food is mainly of animal origin, but it can also be of plant origin (processed meat, ham, cheese, canned meat, fish, canned beans etc.) (Popoff 2014). At 12-36 hours after the consumption of contaminated food, the clinical picture of botulism develops (Glass et al 2013). Its central element is symmetrical flaccid paresis or paralysis with acute onset. Cranial nerves are mainly affected (diplopia, palpebral ptosis and facial paresis), with descending symmetrical progression towards the neck, trunk and limb muscles. Mild forms with muscle weakness alone are also possible (Glass et al 2013; CDC 2016; Lawrence et al 2007). Patients are afebrile and exhibit dysphagia, xerostomia, dysarthria and dysphonia. In severe forms...

Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society, 2020

Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic condition of autoimmune origin, affecting genetically predispos... more Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic condition of autoimmune origin, affecting genetically predisposed individuals who at some point lose tolerance towards dietary gluten. Prevalence in the general population is 0.5 - 1%, with a higher frequency in women. The most important environmental factor for CD is ingestion of specific gluten peptides. It triggers a sequence of molecular events, involving the intestinal permeability and the immune system, which ends in damage of the intestinal mucosa. A number of studies have demonstrated the correlation between the intestinal microbiota and celiac disease. MicroRNAs through their regulatory role on gene expression have been implicated in the pathogenesis of CD and suggested as potential biomarkers. In the pediatric and adult population, CD displays different clusters of clinical symptoms. Persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and involuntary weight loss are the classic symptoms of CD. In the majority of cases diagnosis relies on the combination o...

Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences, 2021

The metabolic syndrome represents a plethora of cardio-metabolic risk factors including obesity, ... more The metabolic syndrome represents a plethora of cardio-metabolic risk factors including obesity, arterial hypertension, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, accompanied by pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic state. The metabolic syndrome is one of the key risk factors for certain types of cancer. Among these malignancies, breast cancer and endometrial neoplasms require special attention. Incriminated major causes for the development of breast and endometrial cancer in metabolic syndrome patients are: the proinflammatory status and related cytokines, adipokine imbalances, hyperestrogenism, growth factors, disturbances in cancer microenvironment, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. The metabolic syndrome consists of molecular dysregulations that create a pro-oncogenic status. Our review aims at providing a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the link between the metabolic syndrome and endometrial and breast cancer.

Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 2021

In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30-day mortality i... more In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30-day mortality in patients with acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) who underwent surgical intervention after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We conducted a retrospective study, which included a cohort of 135 consecutive patients diagnosed with ASDH who required surgical evacuation. We assessed the demographic and clinical data, the imaging data of the hematoma described by preoperative computed tomography (CT) and the type of neurosurgical intervention for hematoma evacuation via either craniectomy or craniotomy. The patients were followed up for 30 days after head trauma and the occurrence of death was noted. Death was recorded in 63 (46.6%) patients at 30 days after TBI. There was a significant number of deceased patients who underwent craniectomy (71.4%). The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was statistically significantly lower in patients who died (P<0.001), with a cutoff value of ≤12, under which the probability of death increased [AUC 0.830 (95% CI, 0.756-0.889); Se 90.48% (95% CI, 80.4-96.4); Sp 66.7% (95% CI, 54.6-77.3); P<0.001]. The midline shift was statistically significantly higher in deceased patients (P=0.005), with a cutoff value of >7 mm, over which the probability of death increased [AUC 0.637 (95% CI, 0.550-0.718); Se 38.1% (95% CI, 26.1-51.2); Sp 86.1% (95% CI, 75.9-93.1); P= 0.003]. There were significantly more deceased patients with intracranial hypertension, brain herniation, brain swelling, intraparenchymal hematoma and cranial fracture. In multivariate analysis only a Glasgow score ≤12 and a midline shift >7 mm were independently linked to mortality. Brain herniation and intraparenchymal hematoma were associated with a higher probability of dying, but the statistical threshold was slightly exceeded. The type of neurosurgery performed for patients with ASDH was not an independent predictive factor for 30-day mortality. However, craniectomy was associated with a higher mortality in patients with ASDH.

Molecules, 2020

Flavonoids are metabolites of plants and fungus. Flavonoid research has been paid special attenti... more Flavonoids are metabolites of plants and fungus. Flavonoid research has been paid special attention to in recent times after the observation of their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. These favorable effects are exerted by flavonoids mainly due to their antioxidant properties, which result from the ability to decrease the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins, thus improving the lipid profiles. The other positive effect exerted on the cardiovascular system is the ability of flavonoids to produce vasodilation and regulate the apoptotic processes in the endothelium. Researchers suggested that these effects, including their anti-inflammatory function, are consequences of flavonoids’ potent antioxidant properties, but recent studies have shown multiple signaling pathways linked to them, thus suggesting that there are more mechanisms involved in the beneficial effect of the flavonoids on the human body. This review aims to present the latest data on the classification of t...

Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences, 2020

Imatinib is generally well tolerated, with mild common side effects such as nausea and vomiting, ... 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.

Revista Romana de Medicina de Laborator, 2018

Introduction: Reduced serum levels of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activities are associated with disease... more Introduction: Reduced serum levels of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activities are associated with diseases involving increased oxidative stress, such as acute coronary syndrome. We aimed to determine whether serum PON1 activities are a prognostic factor for one-year survival following ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Material and methods: We prospectively followed for one-year 75 patients diagnosed and treated for STEMI. Clinical, laboratory and imagistic data were gathered after coronary angiography. PON1 activities (paraoxonase, arylesterase, and lactonase) were assayed spectophotometrically on samples of heparinized plasma taken from the patients in a timeframe of maximum 20 minutes after coronary angiography. Results: Increased mortality was linked to age (patients over 68 years), permanent atrial fibrillation or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40% (associated with global hypokinesia, apical or septal akinesia), trivascular disease atherosclerosis, reduced PON1 ...

Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2020

OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship of carotid intima-media thickness with weight-gain, overwei... more OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship of carotid intima-media thickness with weight-gain, overweight and obesity.. Methods The experimental, analytical study was conducted at the CF University Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, from 2012 to 2014, and comprised randomly selected in patients from the Medical Ward. The patients were divided into normal-weight subjects in Group I and overweight and obese subjects in Group II Intimate-media thickness was measured by carotid Doppler ultrasound. Data was analysed using SPSS 13. RESULTS Of the 111 subjects, Group I had 27(%) and Group II had 84(%) subjects. Mean carotid intimamedia thickness was significantly greater (p<0.001) in Group II compared to Group I, especially in those with metabolic syndrome (p<0.001) and higher high-sensitivity C reactive protein (p<0.05). With the exception of Group II where there was a direct correlation (p<0.05) between triglycerides and intimamedia thickness, and an inverse correlation (p<0.05) between high-density lipoprotein and intimamedia thickness, no significant correlations were recorded (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Intima-media thickness was found to be increased in asymptomatic overweight and obese subjects, significantly higher in those with associated metabolic syndrome and high levels of highsensitivity C-reactive protein, as an indication of the presence of early, subclinical atherosclerosis.

HVM Bioflux, 2017

1,2Vlad Dudric, 1Nicolae Constantea, 1Dan Axente, 1Horațiu Silaghi, 1Daciana Chirilă, 1Tudor Pop,... more 1,2Vlad Dudric, 1Nicolae Constantea, 1Dan Axente, 1Horațiu Silaghi, 1Daciana Chirilă, 1Tudor Pop, 3Ioana Para, 2Adrian Maghiar 1 Department of Surgery, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; 2 University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Oradea, Romania; 3 Vth Department of Internal Medicine, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

Romanian Journal of Medical Practice, 2021

Negative attitudes regarding obese adolescents are learned early in life. Weight stigmatizing exp... more Negative attitudes regarding obese adolescents are learned early in life. Weight stigmatizing experiences occur frequently in the context of personal relationships with peers, teachers, family members, and health professionals. Adolescents’ weight stigma is insufficiently considered in the obesity’s management, and this contributes to negative health outcomes and behaviors that act as obesogenic factors into adulthood. Primary care professionals provide opportunity for translating expert recommendations for healthy behavior changes of obese adolescents, having facilities and staff to implement them in the community. However, comprehensive programs for controlling body weight and stigmatizing obese adolescents are not sufficiently addressed in primary care because they require psycho-educational skills development and dedicated time. In the framework of the curricular reform of the family medicine residency program a study design in the community served by the family physician traine...

Balneo Research Journal, Dec 1, 2017

Introduction. Renal impairment and neurological symptoms are common manifestations of Fabry disea... more Introduction. Renal impairment and neurological symptoms are common manifestations of Fabry disease. Although rare, Fabry disease should be taken into consideration when consulting a patient who presents with neurological and renal impairment, acroparesthesia and fatigue. The aim of this paper is to discuss the case of a female patient presenting with mild systemic symptoms and consequent renal impairment. Case report. The female patient, aged 64, presented for a painful ankle swelling, acroparesthesias, nycturia and fatigue. We diagnosed a gout attack, but found that she had biological signs of renal impairment, aggravated by the use of non-steroidian anti-inflammatory drugs. The search for an etiology of her renal failure proved difficult because she refused the kidney biopsy. The positivity of pANCA antibodies added another potential cause of kidney disease. The mild deficiency of alphagalactosidase could not fully support the diagnosis of Fabry disease. Discussions and conclusions. In women, Fabry disease should be suspected even if the symptomatology is not typical and as severe as in men. It is difficult to diagnose the Fabry disease in a female patient with chronic kidney disease, because of its polymorphic manifestations and association with other comorbidities, in our case, pANCA vasculitis.

American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs, 2006

ABSTRACT

Medicine and Pharmacy Reports

Background and aim. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of prior anticoagulant treat... more Background and aim. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of prior anticoagulant treatment on the characteristics of intracranial hematomas. Methods. We included in this retrospective study 135 patients who were diagnosed with subdural hematoma in the context of traumatic brain injury. We recorded the demographic and clinical data, the paraclinical examinations and the characteristics of subdural hematoma evidenced by preoperative computed tomography (CT). We also reported the other brain injuries, entailed by primary and secondary lesions, as described by CT. Results. The anticoagulation therapy was recorded in 35 patients, at the moment of diagnosis. Acute subdural hematoma was recorded in 89 (65.9%) patients, 21 (60%) of these had anticoagulation therapy on admission. There were 46 (34.1%) patients with chronic subdural hematoma, 14 (40%) of these were on anticoagulant therapy. The midline shift was significantly moved in patients with anticoagulation therapy. The thic...

Biomedical Papers of the Faculty of Medicine of Palacký University, Olomouc Czech Republic, Sep 5, 2022

Arterial stiffness and degenerative aortic stenosis (AoS) are frequently associated leading to a ... more Arterial stiffness and degenerative aortic stenosis (AoS) are frequently associated leading to a combined valvular and vascular load imposed on the left ventricle (LV). Vascular load consists of a pulsatile load represented by arterial stiffness and a steady load corresponding to vascular resistance. Increased vascular load in AoS has been associated with LV dysfunction and poor prognosis in pre-intervention state, as well as after aortic valve replacement (AVR), suggesting that the evaluation of arterial load in AoS may have clinical benefits. Nevertheless, studies that investigated arterial stiffness in AoS either before or after AVR used various methods of measurement and their results are conflicting. The aim of the present review was to summarize the main pathophysiological mechanisms which may explain the complex valvulo-arterial interplay in AoS and their consequences on LV structure and function on the patients' outcome. Future larger studies are needed to clarify the complex hemodynamic modifications produced by increased vascular load in AoS and its changes after AVR. Prospective evaluation is needed to confirm the prognostic value of arterial stiffness in patients with AoS. Simple, non-invasive, reliable methods which must be validated in AoS still remain to be established before implementing arterial stiffness measurement in patients with AoS in clinical practice.

Medicina, 2021

Adipokines are active molecules with pleiotropic effects produced by adipose tissue and involved ... more Adipokines are active molecules with pleiotropic effects produced by adipose tissue and involved in obesity-related metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Arterial stiffness, which is a consequence of arteriosclerosis, has been shown to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The pathogenesis of arterial stiffness is complex but incompletely understood. Adipokines dysregulation may induce, by various mechanisms, vascular inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular remodeling, leading to increased arterial stiffness. This article summarizes literature data regarding adipokine-related pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the development of arterial stiffness, particularly in obesity, as well as the results of clinical and epidemiological studies which investigated the relationship between adipokines and arterial stiffness.

Balneo Research Journal, 2019

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are extensively used worldwide due to their analge... more Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are extensively used worldwide due to their analgesic, antipyretic and antiinflammatory effects. NSAIDs (both non-selective NSAIDs and selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors) have nephrotoxic potential, particularly when used chronically.The principal mechanism of action of NSAIDs is cyclooxygenase inhibition, which prevents the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, prostacyclins and thromboxanes. In the kidney, prostaglandins induce vasodilation and counter the action of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the sympathetic nervous system, ensuring optimal renal perfusion. Inhibition of this mechanism by NSAIDs can result in renal damage: acute kidney injury through hemodynamic mechanism, acute interstitial nephritis, glomerular disease, papillary necrosis, water and electrolyte imbalances, HTN. Chronic NSAID use may lead to chronic kidney disease.The nephrotoxic effect is reduced in young patients without renal disease or other comorbidities, but increases significantly in elderly patients with pre-existing kidney disease, nephrotic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, severe congestive heart failure, volume depletion, cirrhosis with ascites, HTN, atherosclerosis, or in patients under treatment with diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor inhibitors.

Iranian Journal of Public Health, 2020

Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society, 2020

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition that occurs in genetically predisposed people wher... more Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune condition that occurs in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten produces damage in the small intestine. The treatment accepted until now is a strict gluten free diet. This implies the need for novel or adjuvant treatments, in addition to the standard of care. The present study aimed to assess the effect of gold nanoparticles phytosynthesized with Cornus mas extract (AuCM) compared to Cornus mas extract (CM) and luteolin (LT) on Caco-2 cells, exposed or not to gliadin. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used for the characterization of AuCM. Measured cellular outcomes included oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde level, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities), inflammatory response and cellular signaling and transcription factors involved in apoptosis (NFκB, pNFκB, NOS2, TNF-α, TRAIL, Bax, Bcl-2, p53). The internalization of gold nanoparticles in cells was evidenced by transm...

Case report The 73-year-old patient from the rural environment, retired, with a history of hypert... more Case report The 73-year-old patient from the rural environment, retired, with a history of hypertension, with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (controlled by diet and antidiabetic drugs since 2006), antral erythematous gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, second grade internal hemorrhoids, who underwent cholecystectomy and subtotal hysterectomy for uterine fibroids in 1973, presented for diffuse abdominal pain, more pronounced in the umbilical region, the left hypochondrium and the bilateral flanks. She also accused associated appetite loss, asthenia and fatigue. Symptoms had an insidious onset about 40 years ago, characterized by abdominal pain experienced “all over the abdomen” that sometimes irradiates in the lumbar region, with a nonspecific character, manifested by ‘permanent’ stinging, stabbing or pressure of varying intensity for about 40 years, with very short calm periods. The associated general symptoms are characterized by ‘weakness’, ‘malaise’, ‘irritation’, the patient describi...

In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30‐day mortality i... more In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30‐day mortality in patients with acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) who underwent surgical intervention after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We conducted a retrospective study, which included a cohort of 135 consecutive patients diagnosed with ASDH who required surgical evacuation. We assessed the demographic and clinical data, the imaging data of the hematoma described by preoperative computed tomography (CT) and the type of neurosurgical intervention for hematoma evacuation via either craniectomy or craniotomy. The patients were followed up for 30 days after head trauma and the occurrence of death was noted. Death was recorded in 63 (46.6%) patients at 30 days after TBI. There was a significant number of deceased patients who underwent craniectomy (71.4%). The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was statistically significantly lower in patients who died (P<0.001), with a cut‐off value of ≤12, under which the probab...

Bacterial toxin poisoning Clostridium botulinum Human disease due to the Clostridium botulinum ba... more Bacterial toxin poisoning Clostridium botulinum Human disease due to the Clostridium botulinum bacterium is called botulism and is classified as poisoning because it is due to botulinum neurotoxins produced outside the human body by this anaerobic bacterium. Contaminated food is mainly of animal origin, but it can also be of plant origin (processed meat, ham, cheese, canned meat, fish, canned beans etc.) (Popoff 2014). At 12-36 hours after the consumption of contaminated food, the clinical picture of botulism develops (Glass et al 2013). Its central element is symmetrical flaccid paresis or paralysis with acute onset. Cranial nerves are mainly affected (diplopia, palpebral ptosis and facial paresis), with descending symmetrical progression towards the neck, trunk and limb muscles. Mild forms with muscle weakness alone are also possible (Glass et al 2013; CDC 2016; Lawrence et al 2007). Patients are afebrile and exhibit dysphagia, xerostomia, dysarthria and dysphonia. In severe forms...

Journal of physiology and pharmacology : an official journal of the Polish Physiological Society, 2020

Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic condition of autoimmune origin, affecting genetically predispos... more Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic condition of autoimmune origin, affecting genetically predisposed individuals who at some point lose tolerance towards dietary gluten. Prevalence in the general population is 0.5 - 1%, with a higher frequency in women. The most important environmental factor for CD is ingestion of specific gluten peptides. It triggers a sequence of molecular events, involving the intestinal permeability and the immune system, which ends in damage of the intestinal mucosa. A number of studies have demonstrated the correlation between the intestinal microbiota and celiac disease. MicroRNAs through their regulatory role on gene expression have been implicated in the pathogenesis of CD and suggested as potential biomarkers. In the pediatric and adult population, CD displays different clusters of clinical symptoms. Persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and involuntary weight loss are the classic symptoms of CD. In the majority of cases diagnosis relies on the combination o...

Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences, 2021

The metabolic syndrome represents a plethora of cardio-metabolic risk factors including obesity, ... more The metabolic syndrome represents a plethora of cardio-metabolic risk factors including obesity, arterial hypertension, atherogenic dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, accompanied by pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic state. The metabolic syndrome is one of the key risk factors for certain types of cancer. Among these malignancies, breast cancer and endometrial neoplasms require special attention. Incriminated major causes for the development of breast and endometrial cancer in metabolic syndrome patients are: the proinflammatory status and related cytokines, adipokine imbalances, hyperestrogenism, growth factors, disturbances in cancer microenvironment, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. The metabolic syndrome consists of molecular dysregulations that create a pro-oncogenic status. Our review aims at providing a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the link between the metabolic syndrome and endometrial and breast cancer.

Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 2021

In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30-day mortality i... more In the present study, we aimed to assess and analyze the predictive factors of 30-day mortality in patients with acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) who underwent surgical intervention after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We conducted a retrospective study, which included a cohort of 135 consecutive patients diagnosed with ASDH who required surgical evacuation. We assessed the demographic and clinical data, the imaging data of the hematoma described by preoperative computed tomography (CT) and the type of neurosurgical intervention for hematoma evacuation via either craniectomy or craniotomy. The patients were followed up for 30 days after head trauma and the occurrence of death was noted. Death was recorded in 63 (46.6%) patients at 30 days after TBI. There was a significant number of deceased patients who underwent craniectomy (71.4%). The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was statistically significantly lower in patients who died (P<0.001), with a cutoff value of ≤12, under which the probability of death increased [AUC 0.830 (95% CI, 0.756-0.889); Se 90.48% (95% CI, 80.4-96.4); Sp 66.7% (95% CI, 54.6-77.3); P<0.001]. The midline shift was statistically significantly higher in deceased patients (P=0.005), with a cutoff value of >7 mm, over which the probability of death increased [AUC 0.637 (95% CI, 0.550-0.718); Se 38.1% (95% CI, 26.1-51.2); Sp 86.1% (95% CI, 75.9-93.1); P= 0.003]. There were significantly more deceased patients with intracranial hypertension, brain herniation, brain swelling, intraparenchymal hematoma and cranial fracture. In multivariate analysis only a Glasgow score ≤12 and a midline shift >7 mm were independently linked to mortality. Brain herniation and intraparenchymal hematoma were associated with a higher probability of dying, but the statistical threshold was slightly exceeded. The type of neurosurgery performed for patients with ASDH was not an independent predictive factor for 30-day mortality. However, craniectomy was associated with a higher mortality in patients with ASDH.

Molecules, 2020

Flavonoids are metabolites of plants and fungus. Flavonoid research has been paid special attenti... more Flavonoids are metabolites of plants and fungus. Flavonoid research has been paid special attention to in recent times after the observation of their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. These favorable effects are exerted by flavonoids mainly due to their antioxidant properties, which result from the ability to decrease the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins, thus improving the lipid profiles. The other positive effect exerted on the cardiovascular system is the ability of flavonoids to produce vasodilation and regulate the apoptotic processes in the endothelium. Researchers suggested that these effects, including their anti-inflammatory function, are consequences of flavonoids’ potent antioxidant properties, but recent studies have shown multiple signaling pathways linked to them, thus suggesting that there are more mechanisms involved in the beneficial effect of the flavonoids on the human body. This review aims to present the latest data on the classification of t...

Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences, 2020

Imatinib is generally well tolerated, with mild common side effects such as nausea and vomiting, ... 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.

Revista Romana de Medicina de Laborator, 2018

Introduction: Reduced serum levels of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activities are associated with disease... more Introduction: Reduced serum levels of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activities are associated with diseases involving increased oxidative stress, such as acute coronary syndrome. We aimed to determine whether serum PON1 activities are a prognostic factor for one-year survival following ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Material and methods: We prospectively followed for one-year 75 patients diagnosed and treated for STEMI. Clinical, laboratory and imagistic data were gathered after coronary angiography. PON1 activities (paraoxonase, arylesterase, and lactonase) were assayed spectophotometrically on samples of heparinized plasma taken from the patients in a timeframe of maximum 20 minutes after coronary angiography. Results: Increased mortality was linked to age (patients over 68 years), permanent atrial fibrillation or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40% (associated with global hypokinesia, apical or septal akinesia), trivascular disease atherosclerosis, reduced PON1 ...

Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 2020

OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship of carotid intima-media thickness with weight-gain, overwei... more OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship of carotid intima-media thickness with weight-gain, overweight and obesity.. Methods The experimental, analytical study was conducted at the CF University Hospital, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, from 2012 to 2014, and comprised randomly selected in patients from the Medical Ward. The patients were divided into normal-weight subjects in Group I and overweight and obese subjects in Group II Intimate-media thickness was measured by carotid Doppler ultrasound. Data was analysed using SPSS 13. RESULTS Of the 111 subjects, Group I had 27(%) and Group II had 84(%) subjects. Mean carotid intimamedia thickness was significantly greater (p<0.001) in Group II compared to Group I, especially in those with metabolic syndrome (p<0.001) and higher high-sensitivity C reactive protein (p<0.05). With the exception of Group II where there was a direct correlation (p<0.05) between triglycerides and intimamedia thickness, and an inverse correlation (p<0.05) between high-density lipoprotein and intimamedia thickness, no significant correlations were recorded (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Intima-media thickness was found to be increased in asymptomatic overweight and obese subjects, significantly higher in those with associated metabolic syndrome and high levels of highsensitivity C-reactive protein, as an indication of the presence of early, subclinical atherosclerosis.