Search Results (2,101)

The unique properties of phthalocyanines (Pcs), such as strong absorption, high photostability, effective singlet oxygen generation, low toxicity and biocompatibility, versatile chemical modifications, broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, and synergistic effects with other treatment modalities, make them a preferred superior sensitizer in the field of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy. The photodynamic and sonodynamic activity of 3-(3-(diethylamino)phenoxy)propanoxy substituted silicon(IV) Pc were evaluated against bacteria and cancer cells. Stability and singlet oxygen generation upon light irradiation and ultrasound (1 MHz, 3 W) were assessed with 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran. The phthalocyanine revealed high photostability in DMF and DMSO, although the singlet oxygen yields under light irradiation were low. On the other hand, the phthalocyanine revealed excellent sonostability and caused a high rate of DPBF degradation upon excitation by ultrasounds at 1 MHz. The silicon phthalocyanine presented significant bacterial reduction growth, up to 5 log against MRSA and S. epidermidis upon light excitation, whereas the sonodynamic effect was negligible. The phthalocyanine revealed high activity in both photodynamic and sonodynamic manner toward hypopharyngeal tumor (FaDu, 95% and 42% reduction, respectively) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC-25, 96% and 62% reduction, respectively). The sensitizer showed ca. 30% aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibition in various concentrations and up to 85% platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase for 0.25 μM, while protease-activated protein C was stimulated up to 66% for 0.75 μM. Full article

Barium chloride (BaCl₂), a known environmental pollutant, induces organ-specific oxidative stress through disruption of redox homeostasis. This study evaluated the protective effects and safety profile of sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC) and ascorbic acid (ASC) against BaCl₂-induced oxidative damage in the liver and brain of mice using a two-phase experimental protocol. Animals received either SCC (40 mg/kg), ASC (160 mg/kg), or their combination for 14 days prior to BaCl₂ exposure (150 mg/L in drinking water for 7 days), allowing evaluation of both preventive and therapeutic effects. Toxicological and behavioral assessments confirmed the absence of systemic toxicity or neurobehavioral alterations following supplementation. Body weight, liver and kidney indices, and biochemical markers (Aspartate Aminotransferase (ASAT), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALAT), creatinine) remained within physiological ranges, and no anxiogenic or locomotor effects were observed. In the brain, BaCl₂ exposure significantly increased SOD (+49%), CAT (+66%), GPx (+24%), and GSH (+26%) compared to controls, reflecting a robust compensatory antioxidant response. Although lipid peroxidation (MDA) showed a non-significant increase, SCC, ASC, and their combination reduced MDA levels by 42%, 37%, and 55%, respectively. These treatments normalized antioxidant enzyme activities and GSH, indicating an effective neuroprotective effect. In contrast, the liver exhibited a different oxidative profile. BaCl₂ exposure increased MDA levels by 80% and GSH by 34%, with no activation of SOD, CAT, or GPx. Histological analysis revealed extensive hepatocellular necrosis, vacuolization, and inflammatory infiltration. SCC significantly reduced hepatic MDA by 39% and preserved tissue architecture, while ASC alone or combined with SCC exacerbated inflammation and depleted hepatic GSH by 71% and 78%, respectively, relative to BaCl₂-exposed controls. Collectively, these results highlight a differential, organ-specific response to BaCl₂-induced oxidative stress and the therapeutic potential of SCC and ASC. SCC emerged as a safer and more effective agent, particularly in hepatic protection, while both antioxidants demonstrated neuroprotective effects when used individually or in combination. Full article

In the preceding and early stages of cancer progression, local drug delivery to pre-cancerous and cancerous skin lesions may be applied as an alternative or supplementary therapy. At present, 5-Fluorouracil, imiquimod, and tirbanibulin creams and ointments have established their place in practice, while several other active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) (e.g., calcipotriol, tretinoin, diclofenac) have been repurposed, used off-label, or are currently being investigated in mono- or combined chemotherapies of skin cancers. Apart from them, dozens to hundreds of therapeutics of natural and synthetic origin are proven to possess anti-tumor activity against melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and other skin cancer types in in vitro studies. Their clinical introduction is most often limited by low skin permeability, challenged targeted drug delivery, insufficient chemical stability, non-selective cytotoxicity, or insufficient safety data. A variety of prodrug and nanotechnological approaches, including vesicular systems, micro- and nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymeric nanoparticles, and others, offer versatile solutions for overcoming the biophysical barrier function of the skin and the undesirable physicochemical nature of some drug molecules. This review aims to present the most significant aspects and latest achievements on the subject. Full article

The Kindlin family of scaffold proteins plays key roles in integrin-mediated processes. Kindlin-1 and -2, encoded by the FERMT1 and FERMT2 genes, respectively, are expressed in the epidermis. Kindlin-1 plays protective roles against the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs) in epidermal keratinocytes. However, the role of Kindlin-2 in transformed epidermal keratinocytes has remained virtually unexplored. In this study, we used siRNA approaches to generate Kindlin-2-depleted cells in three isogenic transformed keratinocyte lines. PM1, MET1, and MET4 cells model, respectively, a precancerous lesion, a primary cSCC, and a metastatic lesion of the latter. MET1 cells express both Kindlin-1 and -2. However, Kindlin-1 was not detectable in PM1 and MET4 cells. FERMT2 silencing in PM1 and MET4, but not in MET1 cells, reduced proliferation and the ability to adhere to culture surfaces and spreading. Furthermore, Kindlin-2-depleted PM1 and MET4, but not MET1 cells, exhibited decreased numbers of focal adhesions, as well as an altered F-actin and microtubule cytoskeletal organization. Significantly, FERMT2 silencing reduced the directional migration in all three cell types. These findings are consistent with the concept that, in the absence of other Kindlin orthologues, Kindlin-2 plays a prominent role in the modulation of the proliferation, spreading, focal adhesion assembly, and motility of transformed keratinocytes, as exemplified by PM1 and MET4 cells. Full article

Control charts (CCs) are one of the most important techniques in statistical process control (SPC) used to monitor the behavior of critical variables. SPC is based on the averages of the samples taken. In this way, not every measurement is observed, and errors in measurements or out-of-control behaviors that are not shown graphically can be hidden. This research proposes a novel segmented control chart (SCC) that considers each measurement of the samples, expressed in matrix form. The vision system technique is used to segment measurements by shading and segmenting into binary values based on the control limits of SPC. Once the matrix is segmented, the seven main features of the matrix are extracted using the translation-, scale-, and rotation-invariant Hu moments of the segmented matrices. Finally, a grouping is made to classify the samples in clear and simple language as excellent, good, or regular using the k-means algorithm. The results visually display the total pattern behavior of the samples and their interpretation when they are classified intelligently. The proposal can be replicated in any production sector and strengthen the control of the sampling process. Full article

In this study, 62 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were isolated from raw camel milk and evaluated for their probiotic potential. The strains exhibited significant variability in their ability to withstand simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Of the isolates, only 26 survived exposure to pH 2, and just 10 were tolerant to 0.3% bile salts. Partial sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene identified all the strains as belonging to the species Enterococcus faecium. Several probiotic traits were assessed, including adhesion to gastric mucin and STC-1 intestinal epithelial cells, as well as auto-aggregation and co-aggregation capacities. Although adhesion to hydrophobic solvents such as chloroform and ethyl acetate was generally low to moderate, all the strains demonstrated strong adhesion to gastric mucin, exceeding 60% at all the growth stages. Notably, two strains—SCC1-33 and SLch6—showed particularly high adhesion to STC-1 cells, with values of 7.8 × 10³ and 4.2 × 10³ CFU/mL, respectively. The strains also exhibited promising aggregation properties, with auto-aggregation and co-aggregation ranging between 33.10% and 63.10%. Furthermore, all the isolates displayed antagonistic activity against Listeria innocua, Micrococcus luteus, and Escherichia coli. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed that none of the tested strains had harmful effects on STC-1 cells, indicating their safety and supporting their potential application as probiotics. Full article

The somatic cell count (SCC) and differential somatic cell count (DSCC) are proxies for the udder health of dairy cattle, regarded as the criterion of mastitis identification with healthy, suspicious mastitis, mastitis, and chronic/persistent mastitis. However, SCC and DSCC are tested using flow cytometry, which is expensive and time-consuming, particularly for DSCC analysis. Mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR) enables qualitative and quantitative analysis of milk constituents with great advantages, being cheap, non-destructive, fast, and high-throughput. The objective of this study is to develop a dairy cattle udder health status diagnostic model of MIR. Data on milk composition, SCC, DSCC, and MIR from 2288 milk samples collected in dairy farms were analyzed using the CombiFoss 7 DC instrument (FOSS, Hilleroed, Denmark). Three MIR spectral preprocessing methods, six modeling algorithms, and three different sets of MIR spectral data were employed in various combinations to develop several diagnostic models for mastitis of dairy cattle. The MIR diagnostic model of effectively identifying the healthy and mastitis cattle was developed using a spectral preprocessing method of difference (DIFF), a modeling algorithm of Random Forest (RF), and 1060 wavenumbers, abbreviated as “DIFF-RF-1060 wavenumbers”, and the AUC reached 1.00 in the training set and 0.80 in the test set. The other MIR diagnostic model of effectively distinguishing mastitis and chronic/persistent mastitis cows was “DIFF-SVM-274 wavenumbers”, with an AUC of 0.87 in the training set and 0.85 in the test set. For more effective use of the model on dairy farms, it is necessary and worthwhile to gather more representative and diverse samples to improve the diagnostic precision and versatility of these models. Full article

Blockchain technology’s increasing adoption across diverse sectors necessitates robust security measures to mitigate rising fraudulent activities. This paper presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of anomaly detection research in blockchain networks from 2017 to 2024, conducted under the PRISMA paradigm. Using CiteSpace 6.4.R1, we systematically map the knowledge domain based on 363 WoSCC-indexed articles. The analysis encompasses collaboration networks, co-citation patterns, citation bursts, and keyword trends to identify emerging research directions, influential contributors, and persistent challenges. The study reveals geographical concentrations of research activity, key institutional players, the evolution of theoretical frameworks, and shifts from basic security mechanisms to sophisticated machine learning and graph neural network approaches. This research summarizes the state of the field and highlights future directions essential for blockchain security. Full article

Background/Objectives: Depression, anxiety and apathy are often associated with subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD) without cognitive impairment. Cognitive reserve (CR) enhances emotional resilience, allowing people to better cope with stress and emotional challenges, factors affecting quality of life. We aimed to explore the relationship between CR and mood/anxiety in cognitively intact PwPD with and without SCCs. Methods: In this cross-sectional study we enrolled 133 PwPD and normal cognitive function (age 59.8 ± 6.7 years; disease duration 9.0 ± 5.5 years; male/female 84/49). We assessed cognitive reserve (CR scale), subjective cognitive complaints (with PD-CFRS), QoL (PDQ8), mood, anxiety and apathy (BDI-II; STAI, PAS, Apathy scales). We used a t-test to compare groups (with/without SCC; M/F); correlations and moderation analysis to evaluate the relation between CR and behavioral features and the interplay between CR, behavioral discomfort and QoL. Results: The group with SCCs had significantly (p < 0.05) higher scores in PDQ8, Apathy, STAI, PAS-C and BDI-II scales than those with no SCCs. Males with SCCs had higher scores in PDQ8, Apathy scale and BDI-II while females differed in PDQ8 and Apathy scale scores. In the SCC group, late-life CR was negatively correlated with PAS-C (avoidance behavior) and BDI-II; correlations were confirmed in the male group where CR also correlated with PDQ-8 and PAS persistent anxiety. Conclusions: PwPD and SCCs are more depressed and anxious compared to people without SCCs. Furthermore, we found a relationship between depressive symptoms, anxiety and CR: PwPD with SCCs may rely on cognitive reserve to better cope with the feeling of anxiety and depression, especially in male gender. Full article

This present study proposes different machine learning-based predictors for the assessment of the residual compressive strength of Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) subjected to high temperatures. The investigation is based on several literature algorithmic approaches based on Artificial Neural Networks with distinct training algorithms (Bayesian Regularization, Levenberg–Marquardt, Scaled Conjugate Gradient, and Resilient Backpropagation), Support Vector Regression, and Random Forest methods. A training database of 150 experimental data points is derived from a careful literature review, incorporating temperature (20–800 °C), geometric ratio (height/diameter), and corresponding compressive strength values. A statistical analysis revealed complex non-linear relationships between variables, with strong negative correlation between temperature and strength and heteroscedastic data distribution, justifying the selection of advanced machine learning techniques. Feature engineering improved model performance through the incorporation of quadratic terms, interaction variables, and cyclic transformations. The Resilient Backpropagation algorithm demonstrated superior performance with the lowest prediction errors, followed by Bayesian Regularization. Support Vector Regression achieved competitive accuracy despite its simpler architecture. Experimental validation using specimens tested up to 800 °C showed a good reliability of the developed systems, with prediction errors ranging from 0.33% to 23.35% across different temperature ranges. Full article

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), comprising basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), represents the most common type of cancer worldwide, particularly among Caucasians. While BCC is locally invasive with minimal metastatic potential, cSCC is a highly aggressive tumor with a significant potential for metastasis, particularly in elderly populations. Tumor development and progression and the metastasis of cSCC are influenced by a complex interplay between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. Recent research highlights the importance of various immune cell subsets, including T cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and dendritic cells, in influencing tumor progression, immune evasion, and treatment resistance. This review outlines key regulatory mechanisms in the immune tumor microenvironment (TME) of cSCC and explores the role of cytokines, immune checkpoints, and stromal interactions. We further discuss the relevance of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models such as spheroids, organoids, and tumor-on-chip systems as tools to mimic immune–tumor interactions with higher physiological relevance, such as macrophage activation and polarization against cSCC cells. Globally, 3D models offer new opportunities for immunotherapy screening and mechanistic studies. Understanding the immune landscape in cSCC through advanced modeling techniques holds strong clinical potential for improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Full article

Background: Huriez syndrome is a rare hereditary skin disorder marked by early-onset sclerodactyly, hyperkeratosis of the palms and soles, and nail dysplasia. A key concern is the early and aggressive development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), typically affecting the dorsal aspects of the hands. Methods: This narrative review summarizes clinical features, genetic aspects, and oncologic implications of Huriez syndrome. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus, including English-language articles published up to May 2025. Relevant case reports and small case series were analyzed. Results: Seven patients (58.3%) underwent multiple surgeries due to recurrent or bilateral disease. Six patients (50%) required amputations, including finger, hand, and arm amputations, with no foot amputations reported. Reconstruction after oncological resection was performed in six patients (50%) using skin grafts (3), pedicled flaps (2), or free flaps (1). Amputation was mainly for advanced disease, with radial forearm flaps used for reconstruction. All flaps remained disease-free. Five cases (41.6%) had a history of local recurrence. Conclusions: The early diagnosis of Huriez syndrome is crucial to enable the surveillance and timely treatment of SCC. A multidisciplinary team including dermatologists, oncologists, plastic surgeons, and geneticists is recommended. Further research is needed to clarify genetic mechanisms and develop early detection strategies to improve outcomes. Full article

The combined effect of temperature-adapted inocula and anaerobic fermentation (AF) settings (pH 5.1 and 50 °C) were assessed to produce short-chain carboxylates (SCCs). In this study, the AF of carrot pulp was investigated using inocula adapted at different temperatures (25, 35, and 55 °C) with the aim of shifting the microbiome activity from biogas to SCC production. The highest SCC content (17.2 g COD L⁻¹), and bioconversion (26.1%) and acidification efficiency (56.3%) were achieved with 35 °C-adapted inoculum. Lactic acid production prevailed in all reactors, demonstrating a high selectivity in SCC production. Both the microbial richness and diversity sharply diminished in the 35 °C and 55 °C operated reactors, with Firmicutes phylum identified as key players of the lactic acid production in AF. The results demonstrated that the operating temperature played a key role in shaping the microbial structure of inocula, leading to different process performances and highlighting thermophilic AF as a feasible process to produce lactic acid. Full article

Subclinical mastitis causes economic losses due to reduced milk yield and elevated somatic cell counts (SCCs), despite no visible clinical signs. A higher incidence of subclinical mastitis has been reported in cattle infected with bovine leukemia virus (BLV). Levamisole (LMS), known for its immunomodulatory properties, has been suggested as a potential alternative to antibiotics for mastitis treatment; however, its efficacy in BLV-infected cows, particularly in relation to proviral load (PVL), remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of LMS on subclinical mastitis and its impact on milk immune responses by classifying BLV-infected cows based on PVL. A total of 42 dairy cows with subclinical mastitis (48 quarters) were grouped as BLV-negative, low-PVL, or high-PVL using a PVL cut-off value of 17.8 copies/10 ng DNA, and were administered LMS orally. Changes in viable bacterial counts, SCCs, and milk leukocyte populations were compared. LMS administration significantly reduced the SCC and milk macrophage numbers, especially in BLV-negative and low-PVL cows. These results suggest that LMS may improve subclinical mastitis in certain BLV-infected cows and that PVL may serve as a useful indicator for treatment responsiveness. However, the limited effect in high-PVL cows and the small sample size have limitations, warranting further investigation. Full article

Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer and constitutes the second most frequent cancer in women (W) and the third most frequent cancer in men (M). The aim of the study was to determine if environmental exposure to zearalenone (ZEN) (a mycoestrogen) affects the metabolic profile of patients diagnosed with sigmoid colorectal cancer (SCC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) (division based on their location) at hospital admission. Male and female patients who were diagnosed with SCC or CRC and whose blood samples tested positive or negative for ZEN participated in a year-long study. Seventeen patients with symptoms of SCC and CRC, in whom ZEN and its metabolites were not detected in peripheral blood, constituted the patients without ZEN (PWZ) group. The experimental groups comprised a total of 16 patients who were diagnosed with SCC or CRC and tested positive for ZEN but negative for ZEN metabolites. Patients exposed to ZEN were characterized by increased levels of liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) from 5.8 to 18.1 IU/L; aspartate aminotransferase (AST) from 2.8 to 10.7 IU/L) and decrease in the value of the De Ritis ratio (below 1.0), different gamma glutamyl transpeptidase and AST activity, lower albumin (from 0.24 g/dL in M to 0.67 g/dL in W) and total protein levels (from 0.75 to 1.76 g/dL), a decrease in total cholesterol (from 21.6 to 40.3 mg/dL) and triglyceride levels (from 7.8 to 37.2 mg/dL), and lower activity of lipase C (from 28.72 to 64.75 IU/L). The metabolic profile of M and W patients diagnosed with SCC and CRC and exposed to ZEN revealed intensified biotransformation processes in the liver, liver damage, and a predominance of catabolic processes. Full article