Search Results (71)

Hernia is a physiological condition that significantly impacts patients’ quality of life. Surgical treatment for hernias often involves the use of specialized meshes to support the abdominal wall. While this method is highly effective, it frequently leads to complications such as pain, infections, inflammation, adhesions, and even the need for revision surgeries. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hernia recurrence rates can reach up to 11%, surgical site infections occur in up to 21% of cases, and chronic pain incidence ranges from 0.3% to 68%. These statistics highlight the urgent need to improve mesh technologies to minimize such complications. The design and material composition of meshes are critical in reducing postoperative complications. Moreover, integrating drug-eluting properties into the meshes could address issues like infections and inflammation by enabling localized delivery of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents. Mesh design is equally important, with innovative structures like auxetic designs offering enhanced mechanical properties, flexibility, and tissue integration. These advanced designs can distribute stress more evenly, reduce fatigue, and improve performance in areas subjected to high pressures, such as during intense coughing, sneezing, or heavy lifting. Technological advancements, such as 3D printing, enable the precise fabrication of meshes with tailored designs and properties, providing new opportunities for innovation. By addressing these challenges, the development of next-generation mesh implants has the potential to reduce complications, improve patient outcomes, and significantly enhance quality of life for individuals undergoing hernia repair. Full article

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major etiological agent of lower respiratory tract infections, particularly among infants and the elderly. Activation of B cells in the mucosa and the production of specific neutralizing antibodies are essential for protective immunity against pulmonary infection. B-cell activating factor (BAFF) is a critical survival factor for B cells and has been associated with antiviral responses; however, its regulation during RSV infection remains poorly understood. This study examined BAFF regulation in BEAS-2B cells exposed to RSV or IFN-β. The treatments resulted in a progressive increase in gene expression over time, accompanied by higher protein levels. BAFF mRNA peaked at 12 h post-infection and declined by 48 h, coinciding with the release of soluble BAFF protein into the culture supernatant. Pre-treatment with anti-IFN-β antibodies prior to RSV infection reduced both BAFF mRNA and protein levels, indicating that IFN-β plays a regulatory role in BAFF production by airway epithelial cells. Western blot analysis revealed membrane-bound BAFF (~31 kDa) in non-infected cells, with elevated expression at 24 h post-infection. By 48 h, this form was cleaved into a soluble ~17 kDa form, which was detected in the supernatant. Immunostaining further demonstrated reduced surface expression of membrane-bound BAFF in RSV-infected cells compared to uninfected controls, suggesting that RSV infection promotes the cleavage and release of BAFF into the extracellular environment. Additionally, the release of BAFF was not affected by furin convertase inhibition or ER–Golgi transport blockade, indicating a potentially novel cleavage mechanism. Co-culturing BAFF produced by BEAS-2B cells with isolated B cells enhanced B cell viability. Overall, these results indicate that RSV infection stimulates BAFF production in airway epithelial cells through a pathway involving IFN-β, potentially contributing to B cell activation and promoting local antibody-mediated immunity. Understanding this mechanism may offer valuable insights for improving mucosal vaccine strategies and enhancing immunity against respiratory pathogens. Full article

The growing prevalence of bacterial infections and the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have driven the need for innovative antimicrobial coatings for medical implants and biomaterials. However, implant surface properties, such as roughness, chemistry, and reactivity, critically influence biological interactions and must be engineered to ensure biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and sustained antibacterial activity. This review evaluates three principal categories of antimicrobial agents utilized in surface functionalization: metal/metaloxide nanoparticles, antibiotics, and phytochemical compounds. Metal/metaloxide-based coatings, especially those incorporating silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), and copper oxide (CuO), offer broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy through mechanisms such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and bacterial membrane disruption, with a reduced risk of resistance development. Antibiotic-based coatings enable localized drug delivery but often face limitations related to burst release, cytotoxicity, and diminishing effectiveness against multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. In contrast, phytochemical-derived coatings—using bioactive plant compounds such as curcumin, eugenol, and quercetin—present a promising, biocompatible, and sustainable alternative. These agents not only exhibit antimicrobial properties but also provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and osteogenic benefits, making them multifunctional tools for implant surface modification. The integration of these antimicrobial strategies aims to reduce bacterial adhesion, inhibit biofilm formation, and enhance tissue regeneration. By leveraging the synergistic effects of metal/metaloxide nanoparticles, antibiotics, and phytochemicals, next-generation implant coatings hold the potential to significantly improve infection control and clinical outcomes in implant-based therapies. Full article

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by blistering and erosions that can lead to significant discomfort and complications. The standard treatment includes topical or systemic antibiotics, but severe cases may require advanced wound management strategies. Polylactic acid (PLA)-based membranes have demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing wound healing, modulating inflammation, and reducing pain. Clinical case: We present three cases of bullous impetigo with extensive erosions, managed using PLA membranes as an adjunct to systemic antibiotics. A significant improvement was shown after 7 days of treatment of a single application, and complete resolution was achieved after 30 days. Notably, pain was resolved within 48–72 h, highlighting the analgesic and protective properties of the membrane. Conclusions: These findings suggest that PLA membranes provide a viable adjunct to antibiotic therapy in bullous impetigo, accelerating healing, reducing discomfort, and improving long-term skin outcomes. Given the increasing concern over antibiotic resistance and the limitations of standard wound care, bioresorbable synthetic membranes represent a promising alternative in dermatological wound management. Full article

Implant-associated infections represent challenging complications following orthopedic surgeries, with spinal fixation procedures being particularly linked with increased risks. Thus, urgent research is required to develop enhanced solutions to avoid bacterial colonization, associated implant failure, and severe issues. Our study is based on the laser coating of surfaces with a composite mixture of PLA/Fe₃O₄@CEF that can fight against infectious agents and preserve their activity for a prolonged time. In the present study, we synthesized Fe₃O₄@Ceftriaxone (CEF) nanoparticles by co-precipitation and blended them into polylactic acid (PLA)-based coatings that were thoroughly evaluated from physicochemical and biological points of view. The novelty of this work is the dual functionality of these coatings, combining localized, sustained antibiotic delivery with enhanced biocompatibility for spinal screw applications. The coatings exhibited substantial anti-biofilm effects, reducing Staphylococcus aureus colonization from 1.8 × 10⁸ to 1.6 × 10⁵ CFU/mL and Pseudomonas aeruginosa from 1.2 × 10¹¹ to 1.9 × 10⁶ CFU/mL after 24 h. Furthermore, in vitro assays with murine preosteoblasts and human osteoblasts demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, maintaining >95% cell viability and showing no significant cytotoxicity or inflammatory response. These results highlight the potential of PLA/Fe₃O₄@CEF composite coatings in preventing implant-associated infections and promoting osseointegration, offering a multifunctional strategy for improving spinal fixation screw longevity and patient outcomes. Full article

Cornea vascularisation is a significant cause of ocular morbidity. Disease or injury often triggers the development of new blood vessels in the cornea, compromising its clarity and impairing vision. Common causes of corneal neovascularisation include infections, chemical burns, and local and systemic inflammatory disorders. Topical corticosteroid eye drops remain the standard therapy; however, extended use of corticosteroids has been known to cause side-effects including cataracts and raised intraocular pressure. As such, an alternative therapy has been actively sought. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a major angiogenic factor implicated in neovascularisation. The success of anti-VEGF agents in managing leaking blood vessels in neovascular age-related macular degeneration provides an opportunity to explore its use in the treatment of corneal neovascularisation. The therapeutic potential of anti-VEGF agents has been evaluated in experimental models of corneal neovascularisation and clinical trials with variable results. Here, we review the study results and discuss the development of new strategies that may improve treatment outcomes for corneal neovascularisation. Full article

Hemorrhagic shock is a type of hypovolemic shock and a significant cause of trauma-related death worldwide. The innate immune system has been implicated as a key mediator in developing severe complications after shock. Inflammation from the innate immune system begins at the time of initial insult; however, its activation is exaggerated, resulting in early and late-stage complications. Hypoxia and hypoperfusion lead to the release of molecules that act as danger signals known as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). DAMPs continue to circulate after shock, resulting in excess inflammation and tissue damage. We recently discovered that cold-inducible RNA-binding protein released into the extracellular space acts as a DAMP. During hemorrhagic shock, hypoperfusion leads to cell necrosis and the release of CIRP into circulation, triggering both systemic inflammation and local tissue damage. In this review, we discuss extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (eCIRP)’s role in sterile inflammation, as well as its various mechanisms of action. We also share our more newly developed anti-eCIRP agents with the eventual goal of producing drug therapies to mitigate organ damage, reduce mortality, and improve patient outcomes related to hemorrhagic shock. Finally, we suggest that future preclinical studies are required to develop the listed therapeutics for hemorrhagic shock and related conditions. In addition, we emphasize on the challenges to the translational phase and caution that the therapy should allow the immune system to continue to function well against secondary infections during hospitalization. Full article

Microbiological communities have a significant impact on health and disease. Candida are ubiquitous fungal pathogens that colonize the mucosal surfaces of the genital, urinary, respiratory, and gastrointestinal tracts, as well as the oral cavity. If the immune system is inadequate, then Candida infections may pose a significant threat. Due to the limited number of clinically approved drugs for the treatment of Candida albicans-based infections and the rapid emergence of resistance to the existing antifungals, a novel series of isoxazole-based derivatives was synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their anti-Candida potential. Two compounds, PUB14 and PUB17, displayed selective antifungal activity without negatively affecting beneficial microbiota, such as Lactobacillus sp., at the same time. Moreover, these compounds exhibited significantly lower cytotoxicity in comparison to conventionally applied local antimicrobial (octenidine dihydrochloride), indicating their potential for safe and effective clinical application in conditions such as vulvovaginal candidiasis. The selective antifungal activity of PUB14 and PUB17 against C. albicans, coupled with its absence of antibacterial effects and minimal cytotoxicity towards HeLa cells, suggests a targeted mechanism of action that warrants further investigation. Consideration of the need to search for new antifungal agents and the discovery of an antifungal potential drug that does not inhibit lactobacilli growth could be a potential strategy to prevent and combat vulvovaginal candidiasis. This striking capacity to eradicate biofilm formed by Candida reveals a new approach to eradicating biofilms and sheds light on isoxazole-based derivatives as promising anti-biofilm drugs. Full article

Background: Empirical antibacterial therapy for febrile neutropenia reduces mortality due to Gram-negative blood stream infections (BSIs). Pediatric guidelines recommend monotherapy with an antipseudomonal beta-lactam or a carbapenem and to add a second anti-Gram-negative agent in selected situations. We evaluated the changes in the proportions of resistance of beta-lactam monotherapies vs. their combination with amikacin, and the possible impact on ICU admission or death. Results: 797 BSIs due to Gram-negative bacteria in 685 patients were included. Combination therapies with amikacin had a lower percentage of isolates resistant to one or to both drugs compared with the respective monotherapy. The highest OR for ICU admission was observed when both drugs of the combination of meropenem–amikacin were resistant. Mortality was significantly associated with relapse or the progression of the underlying malignancy, and resistance to both drugs of the combinations of cefepime–amikacin or meropenem–amikacin. Methods: This study was based on data collected for a large multinational study, in which the susceptibility of Gram-negative bloodstream isolates was categorized following either EUCAST or CLSI according to local laboratory standards. An escalation antibiogram was generated for each selected drug. For resistant bacteria, the conditional susceptibility probability on resistance was calculated. Conclusions: In pediatric cancer patients with Gram-negative BSIs, the proportion of the resistant organism correlates with ICU admission or death, which may be reduced by combination therapy. In patients with suspected or confirmed Gram-negative BSIs that are not-improving or deteriorating under monotherapy, escalation to meropenem may represent the best option. Amikacin should be preferred when combination therapy is considered with ciprofloxacin as an alternative in the case of impaired renal function. Full article

Background/Objectives: Oral diseases causing mucosal lesions are normally treated with local or systemic anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial agents. The development of topical formulations, including wound-healing promoters, might speed up the recovery process, improving patients’ quality of life, and reduce the risk of deterioration in health conditions. In this study, a mucoadhesive multilayer film, including a novel biocompatible substance (solubilized eggshell membrane, SESM), was rationally designed. Methods: The SESM preparation procedure was optimized and its biological effects on cell proliferation and inflammation marker gene expression were evaluated in vitro; preformulation studies were conducted to identify the most promising polymers with film-forming properties; then, trilayer films, consisting of an outer layer including chlorhexidine digluconate as a model drug, a supporting layer and a mucoadhesive layer, incorporating SESM, were prepared using the casting method and their mechanical, adhesion and drug release control properties were evaluated. Results: SESM proved to possess a notable wound-healing capacity, inducing a wound closure of 84% in 24 h without inhibiting blood clotting. The films revealed a maximum detachment force from porcine mucosa of approx. 1.7 kPa and maximum in vivo residence time of approx. 200–240 min; finally, they released up to 98% of the loaded drug within 4 h. Conclusions: The formulated trilayer films were found to possess adequate properties, making them potentially suitable for protecting oral lesions and favoring their rapid healing, while releasing antimicrobial substances that might be beneficial in reducing the risk of bacterial infections. Full article

A 65-year-old woman was admitted to the neurology department with a suspected demyelinating disease due to complaints of progressive pain and weakness in both upper and lower limbs, as well as urinary incontinence. MRI of the spine revealed complex disc osteophyte with compression of the spinal cord in the cervical and lumbar spine at several vertebral levels, and localized enhancement in the cervical spine at the site of maximal spinal canal stenosis. During her hospitalization, the patient underwent extensive evaluation to rule out any systematic inflammatory diseases, infections, and malignancy. Chest CT revealed bilateral mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Transbronchial mediastinal lymph node biopsy showed numerous non-necrotizing granulomas without evidence of malignancy. After a thorough and careful exclusion of a demyelinating, infectious, and paraneoplastic myelopathies, and based on clinical, radiographic, and pathological findings, the patient was diagnosed with both neurosarcoidosis and spondylotic myelopathy. She was then treated for neurosarcoidosis, including glucocorticosteroids, azathioprine, and a biosimilar of the anti-TNF alpha agent infliximab, resulting in both clinical and radiographic improvement. Intramedullary spinal neurosarcoidosis is very rare and may present with clinical features of spondylotic myelopathy, with typical imaging findings occurring only in areas of spinal canal stenosis. Full article

Vaginal infections (VIs) are the result of the nefarious vaginal polymicrobial universe (i.e., Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella spp., Staphylococcus spp., Candida albicans, etc.), the inhabitants of which multiply and infect the surface of the vaginal epithelium, which serves as a scaffold for the adhesion of pathogenic poly-complexes with interactive abilities. VIs affect over 1 billion women per year and have a stunning annual relapse rate of 30%. These conditions impact women’s quality of life and fertility and cause oncogenic Human Papillomavirus (HPV) persistence. VIs are typically treated with oral (i.e., Flagyl^®) and localized drug tablets and creams/gels (i.e., Clindesse^®), with potential leakage from the vaginal tract upon administration leading to the failure of the treatment. This study intends to highlight polyphenols as potential therapeutic agents in terms of their benefits and limitations and suggest strategies to increase their effectiveness. Polyphenols are natural compounds rich in phenolic structures which have an impact on this type of pathology and deserve the utmost attention from researchers. Natural polyphenols have several advantages: renewability, biodegradability, low environmental impact, biocompatibility, application versatility, bioactive properties, and the potential for sustainable applications. These compounds, formulated in advanced delivery systems, may natively exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The main objective of this review is to highlight the importance of researching new and effective formulations to prevent and treat VIs based on natural, controlled, and sustainable systems. Full article

Burn injuries represent a significant problem in clinical practice due to the high risk of infection and the prolonged healing process. Recently, more attention has been given to natural remedies such as water extracts of various medicinal plants, which possess anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Satureja montana L. and other water extracts in a burn wound model. The study involved male Californian rabbits (n = 52) divided into eight groups. Burn wounds were modeled on the animals and subsequently treated with gels based on Satureja montana L. and other water extracts. The reparative potential of the epidermis (assessed by Ki-67 expression), the state of local immunity (measured by the number of CD-45 cells), and the anti-inflammatory role of mast cells (measured by tryptase levels) were evaluated. Bacteriological and morphological studies were conducted. The most pronounced bactericidal, reparative, and immunostimulatory effects were observed after the treatment using a gel mixture of water extracts from Satureja montana L., Salvia sclarea, Coriandrum sativum L., and Lavandula angustifolia in equal proportions (1:1:1:1). The other gels also demonstrated high efficacy in treating burn wounds, especially when using a strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistant to several antibiotics. Immunohistochemical studies showed a significant increase in the number of Ki-67-positive cells in the basal layer of the epidermis and a decrease in the number of CD-45-positive cells, indicating improved proliferative activity and reduced inflammation. This study confirms the hypothesis that the use of water extract mixtures significantly enhances the reparative potential, improves the immune response in the treatment of burns, and promotes wound healing. These findings pave the way for further research and the application of complex phytotherapeutic agents, specifically water extracts of medicinal plants containing phenols and antioxidants in burn wound therapy. Full article

This comprehensive review consolidates insights from two sources to emphasize the transformative impact of scaffold-based drug delivery systems in revolutionizing oral cancer therapy. By focusing on their core abilities to facilitate targeted and localized drug administration, these systems enhance therapeutic outcomes significantly. Scaffolds, notably those coated with anti-cancer agents such as cisplatin and paclitaxel, have proven effective in inhibiting oral cancer cell proliferation, establishing a promising avenue for site-specific drug delivery. The application of synthetic scaffolds, including Poly Ethylene Glycol (PEG) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and natural materials, like collagen or silk, in 3D systems has been pivotal for controlled release of therapeutic agents, executing diverse anti-cancer strategies. A key advancement in this field is the advent of smart scaffolds designed for sequential cancer therapy, which strive to refine drug delivery systems, minimizing surgical interventions, accentuating the significance of 3D scaffolds in oral cancer management. These systems, encompassing local drug-coated scaffolds and other scaffold-based platforms, hold the potential to transform oral cancer treatment through precise interventions, yielding improved patient outcomes. Local drug delivery via scaffolds can mitigate systemic side effects typically associated with chemotherapy, such as nausea, alopecia, infections, and gastrointestinal issues. Post-drug release, scaffolds foster a conducive environment for non-cancerous cell growth, adhering and proliferation, demonstrating restorative potential. Strategies for controlled and targeted drug delivery in oral cancer therapy span injectable self-assembling peptide hydrogels, nanocarriers, and dual drug-loaded nanofibrous scaffolds. These systems ensure prolonged release, synergistic effects, and tunable targeting, enhancing drug delivery efficiency while reducing systemic exposure. Smart scaffolds, capable of sequential drug release, transitioning to cell-friendly surfaces, and enabling combinatorial therapy, hold the promise to revolutionize treatment by delivering precise interventions and optimized outcomes. In essence, scaffold-based drug delivery systems, through their varied forms and functionalities, are reshaping oral cancer therapy. They target drug delivery efficiency, diminish side effects, and present avenues for personalization. Challenges like fabrication intricacy, biocompatibility, and scalability call for additional research. Nonetheless, the perspective on scaffold-based systems in oral cancer treatment is optimistic, as ongoing advancements aim to surmount current limitations and fully leverage their potential in cancer therapy. Full article

T. gondii is the causal agent of toxoplasmosis, a worldwide zoonotic disease relevant in human and veterinary medicine. In Algeria, few reports focused on the presence and circulation of this parasite in the local goat population. The aim of the survey was to evaluate toxoplasmosis seroprevalence and associated risk factors. Sera from 460 goats reared on 72 farms in northeastern Algeria were collected and tested for IgG antibodies to T. gondii by an indirect ELISA. To identify risk factors, a linear regression analysis of the variables was performed. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were found in 94.44% (68/72; 95% CI: 73.34–119.73) of goat farms and in 53.26% (245/460; 95% CI: 46.80–60.36) at the individual level. The multivariable analysis showed that seasonal pasture (OR = 3.804; 95% CI: 3.321–4.358; p = 0.003), presence of water source in pasture area (OR = 4.844; 95% CI: 1.942–7.789; p = 0.0004), use of anthelminthics (OR = 2.640; 95% CI: 1.592–3.146; p = 0.036), number of cats, hygiene, proportion of abortions, number of abortions in the last year, year of sampling, region, and season were the variables significantly associated with T. gondii seropositivity. Abortions in goat herds seem to be related to T. gondii exposure, thus it is crucial to undertake measures and strategies to reduce, control, and prevent toxoplasmosis infection in goats, and thereby in humans, from Algeria. Full article