Timisoara Medical Journal

Background: Recognized widely for its irreversible effects, periodontal disease stands as one of the most prevalent conditions, particularly emphasizing the potential for permanent damage caused by gingivitis, extending to encompass the entirety of the supportive complex, including the connective tissue and alveolar bone. Patients necessitating comprehensive periodontal and prosthetic treatments require an interdisciplinary approach, involving the coordination of pre-treatment procedures and appropriate prosthetic strategies. The adoption of advanced materials and techniques can prove beneficial in addressing complex dental issues. (2) Methods: Forty specimens were prepared using the prescribed procedure, with 20 acting as controls and the other 20 integrating AgNPs. The initial step involved crafting wax patterns of distinct shapes: dumbbell shapes for tensile testing and rectangular shapes for roughness assessments. These dimensions were aligned with ASTM D-638 and ISO 527-2 standards and adjusted to match the specifications of the analysis device for mechanical properties. (3) Results: In this case, the results indicate minimal differences in heat-curing acrylic resins compared to the control samples at a 5% concentration. However, notable disparities arise at concentrations of 10% and 20%. (4) Conclusions: Temporary prosthetic constructions are essential for preventing functional imbalances and complications. Incorporating AgNPs at a 5% concentration maintains mechanical properties while providing antibacterial effects for long-term interim prosthodontic restorations. Higher nanoparticle concentrations may reduce resin mechanical properties without affecting material surface condition Full article

(1) Background: This study delved into a current topic in dental medical practice to analyse the role and impact in communication of messages within health promotion campaigns. (2) Methods: This study analyses the patients' opinions about the role and importance of using an effective communication style in health promotion campaigns. The main aspects aims to analyse based on patients' opinions, the consistency of messages in health promotion campaigns, the repetitive nature of these messages, the adaptation of communication methods according to the target group's background and the importance of collaboration between state bodies and those organizing health promotion campaigns. (3) Results: The results of this study once again emphasize the close connection between the efficiency of health promotion campaigns, the way campaigns are coordinate and the messages for the target population. Most patients are aware about an effective communication in health promotion campaigns, believing that may influence the recipients' decision to adopt a healthy lifestyle concerning oral health. Regarding the effectiveness of health promotion campaigns for oral health, the study’s results reveal a significant lower positive impact among rural patients compared to urban ones. This indicates the need of change in how information is communicated to the population and to increase the level of health education. (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, the data obtained provides valuable and profound insights into how patients perceive the importance and role of communication in health promotion campaigns. The understanding of their perceptions and requirements forms the basis for developing and implementing efficient health communication and strategies, ultimately leading to improved community health and well-being. By personalizing and adapting the messages and communication methods, health promotion campaigns can become much more effective with a greater impact on health-related behaviours and attitudes. Full article

This study aimed to explore the relationship between inflammatory markers, apolipoprotein E (ApoE) levels, renal function, and mortality in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Conducted as a single-center prospective study at the Clinical County Emergency Hospital of Arad, Romania, the study included 90 patients diagnosed with infected DFUs. The main objective was to determine the risk factors for mortality over a three-year follow-up period, focusing on early versus late deaths. The results indicated a significant correlation between elevated levels of ApoE, pentraxin 3 (PTX3), procalcitonin (PCT), and impaired renal function with increased mortality. Patients with higher levels of these biomarkers, particularly those with impaired renal function, were more likely to experience early death, especially within the first 90 days after surgery. The findings underscore the critical role of these factors in predicting mortality and highlight the need for early intervention and aggressive management of these risk factors to improve outcomes in this vulnerable population. Despite advancements in medical and surgical care, the prognosis for patients with DFUs remains poor, particularly due to the recurrent nature of the ulcers and the presence of comorbidities like chronic kidney disease. Full article