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Background/Objectives: The evaluation of the differences in corneal epithelial thickness profiles in healthy eyes and eyes with mild and moderate stages of keratoconus, using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Methods: Fifty-two healthy eyes (group 0), forty-one eyes with mild keratoconus (group I), and thirty eyes with moderate keratoconus (group II) were included in this study. Only one of the patient's eyes was enrolled, and they were divided into groups using the Amsler–Krumeich (A–K) classification—stage I and II. All patients underwent a visual acuity assessment, slit-lamp examination, corneal tomography, and automatic mapping of corneal thickness and epithelial thickness on a diameter of 9 mm. Corneal tomography with a Placido/Scheimpflug instrument (Sirius, CSO, Florence, Italy) and OCT with a corneal adaptor module (Avanti RTVue XR, Optovue, Lombard, IL, USA) were used. Results: Minimum corneal epithelium thickness was 49.5, 43, and 40 µm in groups 0, I, and II, respectively (Kruskal–Wallis test, p < 0.001). A moderate correlation was found between minimum epithelial thickness and the apex curvature (Pearsons's coefficient r = −0.62, p < 0.001) and posterior radius of central corneal curvature (Pearsons's coefficient r = 0.62, p < 0.001). The difference between minimum and maximum epithelial thickness showed a high correlation (r = −0.770, p < 0.001). In groups I and II, on corneal epithelial thickness maps the thinnest sector, located inferiorly and temporally to the center, was surrounded by sectors with increased thickness. Conclusions: At the apex of the cone, the corneal epithelium becomes thinner, and a thicker ring forms around the cone. Although there is a moderate-to-strong correlation to parameters linked with the severity of keratoconus, and minimum epithelial thickness as well as the minimum–maximum difference, it is not possible to establish cut-off values for stages I and II in the Amsler–Krumeich (A–K) classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since their approval, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been widely used in antitumor therapy for chronic myeloblastic leukemia. Despite being approved by the FDA in 2001 to treat a rare cancer called chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), imatinib and other TKIs remain subjects of research for several reasons, such as their long-term effects, resistance, or molecular mechanisms. This study uses Raman and fluorescence imaging to investigate the in vitro cytotoxic effects of two TKIs, imatinib and dasatinib, on human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). A comprehensive range of concentrations for these TKIs was applied to assess their cytotoxic impact based on viability, inflammation, and biochemical profile. Detailed data analysis revealed alterations in the biochemical profiles of cellular components, even though the viability of HAECs was around 80–90%. These changes indicate that, despite the cells retaining viability, they are experiencing considerable sub-lethal stress. Specifically, cells exposed to clinically relevant TKI concentrations showed increased signals from proteins and saturated lipids alongside decreased signals from nucleic acids, cytochromes, and unsaturated lipids. The subcellular analysis highlighted prominent changes in the perinuclear area, dominated by the endoplasmic reticulum and the cytoplasm. These findings suggest that TKIs are cytotoxic to vascular endothelium at concentrations close to those that are clinically observed. The predominant mechanism appears to involve oxidative stress-mediated inflammation, as evidenced by increased lipid content in treated cells and ICAM-1 staining. This cytotoxicity may contribute to the cardiotoxic effects observed during TKI therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urotropine, an antibacterial agent to treat urinary tract bacterial infections, can be also considered as a repurposed drug with formaldehyde-mediated anticancer activity. Recently, we have synthesized urotropine surface modified iron oxide nanoparticles (URO@Fe3O4 NPs) with improved colloidal stability and limited cytotoxicity against human fibroblasts. In the present study, we have investigated URO@Fe3O4 NP-mediated responses in a panel of forty phenotypically different breast cancer cell lines along with three non-cancerous corresponding cell lines. URO@Fe3O4 NPs promoted oxidative stress and FOXO3a-based antioxidant response in breast cancer cells. Elevated levels of GPX4 and decreased levels of ACSL4 in URO@Fe3O4 NP-treated breast cancer cells protected against ferroptotic cell death. On the contrary, URO@Fe3O4 NPs impaired the activity of PERK, a part of unfolded protein response (UPR), especially when the glucose supply was limited, that was accompanied by genetic instability, and apoptotic and/or necrotic cell death in breast cancer cells. In conclusion, this is the first comprehensive analysis of anticancer effects of URO@Fe3O4 NPs against a panel of forty breast cancer cell lines with different receptor status and in glucose replete and deplete conditions. We suggest that presented results might be helpful for designing new nano-based anti-breast cancer strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, intensive research has been conducted on effective and simple systems for delivering active substances deep into the epidermis, e.g., for the treatment of skin inflammation. One possibility can be the use of soluble microneedles in which active compounds are encapsulated. This article describes the preparation of modern carriers, namely microneedles with encapsulated extracts of red beet or parsley leaves, that are rich in active substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, specifically betanin and apigenin. The concentration of hyaluronic acid sodium salt, the method of preparing the solution, and the technique of the complete filling of molds were optimized. Plant extracts were obtained with sonication or maceration. In order to characterize the extracts obtained, several techniques were employed, such as UV–Vis, LC–MS, GC–MS, and FTIR-ATR. The analyses performed allowed for confirmation of the presence of selected active substances in the extracts. The most optimal solution of the microneedles' precursor turned out to be the one with a concentration of 10 wt.% of sodium hyaluronate, prepared by stirring and sonication. The most efficient extraction method for each plant was chosen, and the extracts were introduced into a solution of hyaluronic acid sodium salt. The resulting soluble microneedle patches can be used as an alternative to the traditional methods of delivering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances of plant origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Drug prescribing in elderly people with chronic diseases carries certain risks. The desire to treat several different diseases at the same time increases the risk of inadequate drug prescribing. Prostate cancer is a disease of older men and occurs in most men over the age of 65. With age, the risk of prostate cancer increases, but so does the risk of the inadequate prescription of drugs. Our research aimed to highlight the potential inadequate prescription of drugs in patients with prostate cancer, considering that it is mostly a population of older men in whom a greater number of comorbidities is expected, followed by the use of a greater number of drugs. Methods: Our investigation was designed as an observational, cross-sectional study of 334 male patients who presented at the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board (MDT) for urological cancers at the University Clinical Center Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia, from 1 September to 15 December 2023. Our primary outcome was obtaining the MAI score. Results: Our study showed that a significant number of drugs per patient with a prostate cancer diagnosis were prescribed potentially inadequately. The factors associated with greater risk for PIP were the initial level of PSA, ADT meta (intermittent), and several prescribed drugs; on the other hand, secondary hormonal therapy was the reason for less frequent PIP. Conclusions: In conclusion, patients with prostate cancer are under increased risk of inappropriate prescribing when they are prescribed more medication, have high PSA, and have ADT meta (intermittent). To stop the incidence of inappropriate prescribing and its serious economic and health consequences, clinicians should take special care when prescribing new drugs to such patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investments are the development core of every economic operator and the driving force for national economic development. While finding the optimal investment point is extremely difficult, every operator may seek to attain a level of fixed assets which allows them to maintain an increase in production and keep their income flowing. The difficulties in finding this optimum may lead to overinvestment. Hence, this paper estimates the parameters of the production function at various investment levels. Its purpose is to identify the relationship between the investment levels, the use of productive inputs, and growth or decline in production (output) levels. This study used microdata for 3273 Polish farms, as retrieved from the FADN (Farm Accountancy Data Network). The differences found at various farm investment levels allow for highlighting some problematic areas, e.g., in the context of excessive capital use relative to yearly increments in production values. The proposed method of analyzing overinvestment based on the production function can be extended to other countries. According to this paper, farms that invested too little or too much in relation to their production potential showed the worst economic performances, including the greatest declines in production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Less frequently observed compared to surface pyoderma, deep pyoderma penetrates hair follicles to affect the inner layers of the skin, leading to furunculosis and cellulitis. It might follow inadequately treated surface pyoderma, but can also present as specific local issues like callus pyoderma, chin pyoderma, interdigital nodules, or in a scattered or widespread pattern. It can occur in conjunction with any underlying cause or weakened immune system, although it is often associated with generalized demodicosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of food addiction (FA) and binge eating (BE) in a general Polish population, to explore the differences between these constructs, and to examine psychological differences among FA, BE, and FA + BE groups. 2123 participants completed the questionnaires: Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0, Binge Eating Scale, The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, Life Events Checklist, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Short UPPS-P scale (impulsive traits), Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale − 21 items. 492 participants reported clinically significant symptoms of FA, BE, or both. Spearman’s correlations, Mann-Whitney U tests, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were performed to examine the relationships between variables. The present study showed that FA and BE symptoms are common in the adult sample. The FA, BE and FA + BE groups had higher scores than the control group for all variables included in the study. The FA + BE group presented a significantly higher level of behavioral and emotional symptoms, followed by the FA and the BE group with less severity of symptoms. This study supports the hypothesis of food addiction as a similar construct to BE. FA is a broader concept than BE, but individuals experiencing both indicated the greatest functional difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance in microorganisms is an escalating global concern, exacerbated by their formation of biofilms, which provide protection through an extracellular matrix and communication via quorum sensing, enhancing their resistance to treatment. This situation has driven the search for alternative approaches, particularly those using natural compounds. This study explores the potential of phytochemicals, such as quercetin, apigenin, arbutin, gallic acid, proanthocyanidins, and rutin, known for their antibacterial properties and ability to inhibit biofilm formation and disrupt mature biofilms. The methods used in this study included a comprehensive review of current literature assessing the bioavailability, distribution, and effective concentrations of these compounds in treating biofilm-associated infections. The results indicate that these phytochemicals exhibit significant antibacterial effects, reduce biofilm's structural integrity, and inhibit bacterial communication pathways. Moreover, their potential use in combination with existing antibiotics may enhance therapeutic outcomes. The findings support the conclusion that phytochemicals offer promising additions to anti-biofilm strategies and are capable of complementing or replacing conventional treatments, with appropriate therapeutic levels and delivery mechanisms being key to their effectiveness. This insight underscores the need for further research into their clinical applications for treating infections complicated by biofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally due to late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. PARP inhibitors have shown promise as effective treatments for recurrent and various stages of ovarian cancer. Aim of the Study This study reviews the efficacy and application of PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer treatment over the past 15 years, focusing on literature from the PubMed database post-2009 and considering FDA and EMA guidelines. Review methods A literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, focusing on studies published after 2009. The review also incorporated recommendations from the FDA and the European Medicines Agency regarding the use of PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer treatment. Results The findings highlight the substantial impact of PARP inhibitors on ovarian cancer treatment, improving PFS and overall outcomes. Olaparib, niraparib, and rucaparib have become integral to ovarian cancer management, offering effective options for patients with BRCA mutations or homologous recombination deficiencies. These inhibitors have been validated in multiple clinical trials, underscoring their robustness and effectiveness. Combination therapies, such as olaparib with bevacizumab, further enhance therapeutic outcomes, showcasing the potential for synergistic effects. Summary PARP inhibitors represent a significant advancement in ovarian cancer treatment, offering improved survival outcomes for patients with specific genetic profiles. Their integration into standard care protocols underscores their importance and efficacy, providing valuable therapeutic options in the fight against ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater treatment processes can fragment microplastics (MPs), which may subsequently enter fertilizers applied in agricultural settings. This study aimed to quantify the occurrence of MPs in stabilized sewage sludge intended for fertilizer production. Matrix elimination was performed using an oxidative method to isolate MPs, followed by MPs separation with a saturated salt solution of appropriate density to enhance the accuracy of identification. The resulting samples were analyzed using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques to provide the detailed characterization of MPs content. The highest concentrations of MPs were recorded during the months of June, July, and May, with average values of 2942, 2341, and 1746 fragments per 100 g of dry weight, respectively. The analysis revealed that fragments were the dominant morphological form, and low-density polyethylene was the most common polymer type detected. These findings underscore a significant risk of MPs re-emission into the environment through the agricultural application of fertilizers derived from sewage sludge. Such practices may lead to the introduction of between 6110 and 13,889 MPs per square meter of soil, depending on the application rates, thereby posing potential risks to soil health and the broader ecosystem. This study highlights the importance of monitoring MPs content in fertilizers derived from wastewater treatment by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pruritus is the most common reason for consultation in dermatological patients. This symptom is the most important reason for consultation in the case of a group of diseases referred to as inflammatory pruritic diseases. This group includes primarily disease entities of allergic origin and the majority of ectoparasitic invasions. In addition, pruritus occurs in the course of some autoimmune diseases (as in pemphigus foliaceus) as well as dermatophyte infections, and in many other skin diseases. Since these diseases, especially allergic ones, are common, patients with pruritus are majority of dermatological patients. The article discusses the diagnostic procedure in the case of cats with pruritus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the study reported a total of 145 students pursuing the academic title of a BA in English language and literature were tested with the aim of establishing which explanatory variables have the independent power to explain the level of English language speaking anxiety. The instrument used in the study was taken from Yaikhong et al. (2012) and adapted for the purposes of the current investigation. The response variable in the study was the average level of anxiety measured by means of the questionnaire, whereas the explanatory variables included gender, the year of study, the number of presentations students gave during the course of their studies, the grade in language skills, the expected grade, the self-perceived proficiency and the perceived difficulty of the English language. The results reveal that gender, the expected grade and the self-perceived proficiency can account for the variation in the levels of anxiety among students. The paper ends with suggestions of interventions for helping students cope with the negative effects of anxiety on their speaking performance and learning experiences.