Rethinking the role of microglia in obesity.

Microglia are the macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS), implying their role in maintaining brain homeostasis. To achieve this, these cells are sensitive to a plethora of endogenous and exogenous signals, such as neuronal activity, cellular debris, hormones, and pathological patterns, among many others. More recent research suggests that microglia are highly responsive to nutrients and dietary variations. In this context, numerous studies have demonstrated their significant role in the development of obesity under calorie surfeit. Because many reviews already exist on this topic, we have chosen to present the state of our reflections on various concepts put forth in the literature, bringing a new perspective whenever possible. Our literature review focuses on studies conducted in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, a key structure in the control of food intake. Specifically, we present the recent data available on the modifications of microglial energy metabolism following the consumption of an obesogenic diet and their consequences on hypothalamic neuron activity. We also highlight the studies unraveling the mechanisms underlying obesity-related sexual dimorphism. The review concludes with a list of questions that remain to be addressed in the field to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the role of microglia in the regulation of body energy metabolism. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Microglia".

Clinical outcomes of lingual nerve repair.

Lingual nerve injury, a well-described complication of third molar removal, may result in permanent lingual sensory deficit leading to symptoms including lost or altered sensation, inadvertent tongue biting, and the development of unpleasant neuropathic pain, with consequent impaired quality of life. We analysed outcomes of a prospective case series to determine whether direct anastomosis of the lingual nerve results in improved sensory recovery and reduced neuropathic pain, and whether delayed surgery is worthwhile. In 114 patients who underwent nerve repair at our nerve injury clinic following damage sustained during mandibular third molar removal, sensory deficit was assessed before and after surgery using a questionnaire and visual analogue scales (VAS) to assess pain, tingling, and discomfort. Neurosensory tests were utilised to evaluate light touch, pin-prick, and two-point discrimination thresholds. Subjectively, 94% patients felt their sensation had improved following nerve repair, with significant reductions in the incidence of tongue biting (p<0.0001), impaired speech (p<0.0001), and neuropathic pain (p=0.0017). Quantitative neurosensory data showed highly significant improvements in light touch, pin-prick, and two-point discrimination (all p<0.0001), and VAS scores for pain (p=0.0145), tingling (p<0.0025), and discomfort (p<0.0001) were significantly reduced. Patients with high levels of pain preoperatively (VAS>40) showed highly significant reductions in pain (p<0.0001). No correlation was found between surgical outcome and patient's age or delay until surgery. Lingual nerve repair results in good sensory outcomes and significant improvements in the incidence and degree of neuropathic pain, even when delayed.

Aggressive denosumab-related jaw necrosis - a case series.

Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw is becoming a repeatedly seen complication in cancer patients. Stage 0 of the disease is more likely to be seen by the patients' general dental practitioners. We are presenting four cases of MRONJ related to denosumab treatment showing increasingly aggressive pictures of the disease. Nevertheless, we also present a good response to a drug holiday arranged by the patients' treating oncologists.

Sublingual dermoid cysts: case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Dermoid cysts in the floor of the mouth are relatively uncommon developmental lesions. They are thought to arise in the midline and along the lines of embryonic fusion of the facial processes containing ectodermal tissue. CASE REPORT: A 17-year-old female presented with a 3-month history of a growing, progressive swelling in the mouth floor. Clinical examination revealed a rather large symmetrical, soft swelling in the mouth floor, displacing the tongue superiorly. The fast growing nature and size of the lesion raised suspicion of potential compromise to the airway. Surgical excision was therefore performed. CONCLUSION: Differential diagnosis of cystic lesions in the floor of the mouth is of paramount importance, as the recommended surgical techniques vary depending on the anatomical position of the lesions. The intraoral approach is preferred for those lesions that do not extend beyond the mylohyoid muscle boundaries; this leads to a satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcome.

[Healthy elderly--healthy aging]. / Ygie yperlikos--ygie gerateia.

Human statistics show an extraordinary increase in the proportion of old people in the world, in Europe, and in Greece. The role of the nurse in covering the health needs of this group of the population is analyzed. Emphasis is placed in keeping old people active and independent.