Search Results (5,551)

Background: The skin, as the largest organ of the human body, plays a crucial role in protection, immunity and homeostasis. Its exposure to environmental and internal factors contributes to the development of various dermatological conditions. Conventional treatments are often associated with adverse effects and increased resistance. This review aims to explore the growing role of phytotherapeutic approaches in dermatology, along with mapping recent research trends in the field. Methods: The paper presents three parts: the first part highlights the mapping of interest in the addressed topic through a systematic selection of the specialized literature using the Web of Science database. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection, with data visualized in VOSviewer to identify publication trends, keyword clusters, and collaboration networks across European countries. Subsequently, in the second part of the review, the main topical topics regarding the skin were addressed (the immune and non-immune response system, microbiome composition and physiological responses in different situations). The third part of the paper addresses phytotherapy targeted at the dermatological sphere and controlled release therapeutic systems. Results: The analysis identified a total of 267 publications, with a significant increase in recent years. Key research clusters included phytochemical-based therapies, nanocarrier systems, and inflammatory skin conditions. Keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed emerging trends in nanoformulations and targeted delivery systems. The main research groups focused on polyphenols, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects and advanced delivery systems, such as nanoparticles and liposomes. In addition, innovative formulations have improved bioavailability and targeted administration. Conclusions: Phytotherapeutic approaches represent a promising alternative to conventional dermatological treatments, offering effective, safer and more sustainable solutions. The integration of natural compounds with modern delivery systems improves therapeutic outcomes and minimizes side effects, supporting their increasing relevance in clinical and pharmaceutical research. Full article

Benzophenones (BPs) and derivatives are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) widely used in personal care products, food packaging, and flavoring ingredients. This systematic review and bibliometric analysis aimed to identify and summarize analytical methods used to determine BPs in human milk and infant formulas. Furthermore, the bibliometric evaluation explored publication trends by journal, citation count, and geographical distribution, providing insight into the global research landscape on this topic. The most employed sample preparation techniques included liquid–liquid extraction, solid-phase extraction, dispersive solid-phase extraction, low-temperature partitioning, QuEChERS, and dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, frequently combined with enzymatic treatments with β-glucuronidase or arylsulfatase to improve recovery and sensitivity. Gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) were the predominant analytical platforms, with LC–MS being the most used for its ability to detect BPs without derivatization. Recent studies have shown a trend of replacing conventional organic solvents with greener, sustainable, and environmentally friendly approaches, such as miniaturized methods. This trend aligns with Green Analytical Chemistry principles and highlights the need for ongoing methodological and regulatory advancements to ensure food safety and protect public health. Full article

Background/Objectives: Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare but sight-threatening corneal infection. This study reviews the clinical profile, diagnostic pathways, treatment strategies, and outcomes of AK cases managed over a 34-year period. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 52 microbiologically AK cases from 1983 to 2017. Results: The mean age at presentation was 27.7 ± 9.4 years, with a female predominance (63.5%). The majority (82.7%) were contact lens users, almost exclusively soft lens wearers, with documented risk behaviors such as poor hygiene and sleeping with lenses. 44.2% were initially misdiagnosed as nonspecific microbial keratitis. Common clinical findings included epithelial defects (30.8%), ring infiltrates (44.2%), superficial infiltrates (53.8%), hypopyon (30.8%), and corneal thinning (13.5%). Diagnosis was confirmed by culture/stain in 61.5% of cases, while others required confocal microscopy or corneal biopsy. Co-infections with bacteria were noted in ~20%. Prior to referral, 82.7% of patients had received empirical topical therapy. At KKESH, all received dual anti-Acanthamoeba therapy, and 69.2% underwent surgical intervention, including tectonic PKP (46.2%) and optical PKP (19.2%). Visual acuity improved from a mean logMAR of 1.51 at presentation to 0.87 at last follow-up. Anti-Acanthamoeba therapy was discontinued in 95.9% of patients by the end of follow-up, with steroid use tapering from 61.5% at 3 months to 16.3% at final visit. Conclusions: Acanthamoeba keratitis in Saudi Arabia predominantly affects young female contact lens users and often presents with diagnostic delays and misclassification as herpetic or bacterial keratitis. Despite aggressive medical and surgical therapy, visual outcomes remain suboptimal in many cases. Full article

Corneal diseases affect a significant proportion of the global population, with younger age groups being particularly vulnerable. In severe cases involving vision loss, standard techniques such as keratoplasty often fail. These cases require more invasive treatment through the implantation of artificial cornea or keratoprostheses. Since the development of the oldest technique for creating and implanting the first keratoprostheses by Strampelli, these devices have experienced major modifications to improve their biocompatibility, function, and long-term viability. As a result, there is currently a wide range of implants and procedures that are available and can be applied according to patient indications and clinical settings. This narrative review attempts to cover the literature on this topic by focusing on (1) recent advances in rigid (Boston Type I and II, osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis, modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis, and LV Prasad Eye Institute keratoprosthesis) and soft (AlphaCor, CorNeat, and EndoArt) keratoprosthesis designs and (2) more recent studies on innovative biomaterials and techniques that could lead to the fabrication of fully functional biosynthetic corneas with optimal properties. In our review of these materials, we cover the current clinical applications and limitations, as well as future prospects of less invasive and more efficient prostheses that could improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Full article

This study aims to develop and systematically evaluate a new lipid-based formulation of blueberry anthocyanins, which can accelerate the healing effect of the cornea. The study first successfully screened and optimized the formulation and preparation process for blueberry anthocyanin liposomes. Characterization via transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering revealed uniformly distributed, near-spherical liposomes with distinct phospholipid bilayers. Key physicochemical parameters—particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and drug loading capacity—all met formulation standards. In vivo pharmacodynamic experiments demonstrated that topical administration of blueberry anthocyanin liposomes significantly accelerated the repair process and effectively mitigated depressional damage to the corneal epithelium in a New Zealand white rabbit corneal injury model induced by 10.6 μm mid-infrared CO₂ laser. In summary, the blueberry anthocyanin liposomes successfully prepared in this study exhibit excellent performance, effectively enhancing drug exposure levels in vivo and promoting corneal repair. This provides reliable experimental evidence for the development of plant natural active ingredients in ophthalmic treatments. Full article

Topical analgesics are increasingly recognised as an essential part of treatment for painful musculoskeletal conditions, valued for their localised effectiveness and safer profile compared to systemic options. Recent evidence suggests that the effects of topical analgesics go beyond simply alleviating pain from sports injuries; they also enhance sports performance immediately after application. We conducted a local survey of 141 adults engaging in exercise to gain insight into the use patterns and perceptions of topical analgesics; 102 reported using over-the-counter topical analgesics. Fisher–Freeman–Halton analyses confirmed that usage habits were similar between younger (21–30 years) and older (≥31 years) age groups, as well as between those exercising more frequently (≥3 times per week) and less frequently (once or twice per week). Participants typically employed topical analgesics to alleviate muscle aches, pain, or soreness (n = 92, 90.2%), relieve joint pain or discomfort (n = 57, 55.9%), and/or reduce muscle stiffness (n = 39, 38.2%). Most applied them at home as needed (n = 71, 69.6%), with some participants using them after exercise (n = 60, 58.8%). Regarding the frequency of topical analgesic use, most participants used analgesics fewer than five times a year (n = 54, 52.9%). Over half of the participants viewed topical analgesics as effective or very effective. To conclude, our survey revealed that adults engaging in exercise commonly used topical analgesics to relieve musculoskeletal pain or discomfort as needed. Full article

The sustained increase in bacterial resistance has driven the search for therapeutic alternatives that may help reduce antibiotic use, particularly in empirical treatments. In this context, topical ophthalmic antiseptics have emerged as effective and safe tools, suitable for both perioperative prophylaxis and the management of mild or superficial ocular diseases. Their broad spectrum of activity—encompassing bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa—together with the low likelihood of inducing resistance, establishes them as valuable partners in daily clinical practice. This article reviews the current evidence on the use of antiseptics in veterinary ophthalmology, focusing on their clinical applications, therapeutic benefits, and limitations. It also highlights the need for further studies to establish species-specific, disease-specific, and context-based protocols. Full article

Objective: This study examines the potential of natural language processing and text mining to automate the systematic review process in clinical psychiatry, a field that traditionally relies on domain experts and can be time-consuming, prone to human bias and errors. The study compares the classification of review articles by domain experts with that facilitated by machine algorithms. Methods: Using data from PubMed, 160 abstracts related to “transcranial magnetic stimulation” and “autism” were classified into “treatment” and “non-treatment” categories by both human reviewers and a computer algorithm. The computer algorithm, employing topic modeling in text mining, was compared to human reviewers, including two psychiatrists, a biostatistician, and a medical student. Results: The accuracy of human classifications ranged from 68% to 85%, with inter-rater reliability (Kappa statistic) between 0.40 (fair to moderate) and 0.64 (substantial). Intra-rater reliability, tested by reclassification after three months, varied from 0.38 to 0.82. Conclusions: The findings highlight the consistency and reproducibility of computational approaches compared to human classification, which exhibited both inter-rater and intra-rater variability. Differences in reviewer performance were observed; however, these patterns should be interpreted cautiously, as the study was not designed to directly assess cognitive or decision-making processes. Full article

Background: UVA-induced photoaging is driven by a self-reinforcing cycle of persistent oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Quercetin (Que) offers potent photoprotective potential, yet its clinical utility is hindered by poor aqueous solubility and low skin permeability. Objective: To develop a stable quercetin delivery system and evaluate its protective efficacy against UVA-induced photoaging via the NRF2/NF-κB signaling axis. Methods: Network pharmacology and molecular docking identified potential targets. An oil-in-water (O/W) nano-emulsion was formulated and characterized. Its effects were evaluated in UVA-irradiated human skin fibroblasts (HSFs; 1.2 J/cm²/day for 5 days) and a BALB/c mouse model (20 J/cm²/day for 8 weeks). Results: Network pharmacology identified 85 shared targets between Quercetin and photoaging. Molecular docking confirmed high affinities (binding energies < −7.0 kcal/mol) for NRF2, NF-κB p65, SOD2, and MMP-1. The optimized O/W nano-emulsion (144–154 nm, Zeta potential −38 to −43 mV) enhanced Quercetin solubility by 175-fold and followed Higuchi release kinetics. In HSFs, 30 μm Quercetin reduced SA-β-Gal positivity from 45.8% to 12.5% (73% inhibition), decreased ROS by 66%, and restored Type I collagen intensity to 82 ± 3 a.u. In vivo, topical 0.3% Que emulsion significantly attenuated skin-fold thickening (reducing thickness from 3135 μm to 2170 μm; 30.6% reduction) and achieved a 91% collagen retention rate. Mechanistically, Quercetin treatment significantly upregulated NRF2 and SOD2 expression while suppressing the NF-κB p65/MMP-1/3 inflammatory axis at both mRNA and protein levels (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Topical Quercetin emulsion effectively facilitates dermal delivery and alleviates UVA-induced photoaging by rebalancing the NRF2/NF-κB axis, thereby enhancing antioxidant defenses and preserving ECM integrity. This formulation represents a robust strategy for skin photoprotection and functional cosmetic intervention. Full article

Spodoptera litura is a highly destructive agricultural pest with increasing reliance on chemical insecticides. We aimed to develop nanotechnology-enabled strategies that enhance insecticide efficacy against S. litura and reduce chemical inputs. To this end, SlChitinase5 was identified and characterized as a potential RNAi target. This gene contains conserved domains typical of lepidopteran chitinases and is highly expressed during key developmental stages, including larval molting and the prepupal phase. RNAi-mediated suppression of SlChitinase5 through larval injection of double-stranded RNA (dsSlChitinase5) significantly reduced body weight, increased mortality, and disrupted molting. When RNAi-treated larvae were exposed to sublethal concentrations of emamectin benzoate (EB) or an emamectin benzoate–tebufenozide mixture (EBT), larval mortality reached 96.7% on day 5. To evaluate an alternative formulation and exposure approach, dsSlChitinase5 was incorporated into chitosan nanoparticles (CS) and applied topically. This treatment induced SlChitinase5 knockdown and, in combination with sublethal EB or EBT, resulted in complete larval mortality within five days under the conditions tested. These findings validate SlChitinase5 as a molecular target and suggest that CS-dsSlChitinase5 nanocarriers have the potential to enhance insecticide performance, which may support integrated pest management and future efforts toward reduced-input crop protection strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Pediatric hematology and oncology patients are at increased risk for psychosocial and neurocognitive difficulties following treatment. Survivorship programs monitor late effects associated with disease and treatment history, with most programs focusing on screening and referring. Relatively less focus is placed on psychoeducation and intervention. The current paper describes the process of creating a novel psychology trainee-led consultation service embedded within a multidisciplinary survivorship clinic. Methods: A psychology intern collaborated with clinic staff and reviewed existing literature to inform the nature of the service. Patients seen in clinic met with the psychology intern for a 20-min visit focused on an area of concern identified during existing neuropsychology and/or social work assessment visits. Topics addressed included coping with stress, anxiety management, improving mood, sleep hygiene, parenting responses to common behavioral issues, and the acquisition of academic support. Pilot patient satisfaction data were collected via a questionnaire at the end of the visit, without any patient-identifiable factors attached to response data. Results: Most patients and families (90%) found the service helpful. Moreover, the majority of families (90%) found a 20-min service delivery to be adequate. The most common topic area addressed was anxiety management. Conclusions: Results demonstrate high patient satisfaction. Advantages of this service include rapid access to a no-fee support addressing common mental health and neurocognitive sequelae of childhood cancer and the expansion of psychology training opportunities. Future research should evaluate the service using validated outcome measures and examine its long-term effects. Full article

Plastic recycling technologies are rapidly being reoriented toward process, operations, and quality-centered innovation, driven by the circular economy and digital transformation. Using 64,639 triadic patents (2005–2024), this study applies International Patent Classification (IPC) portfolio, co-occurrence network, and BERTopic analyses to compare technological structures before and after 2015. Since 2015, data- and AI-enabled sorting and process optimization (IPC class G06), tracking and connectivity (IPC class H04), collection and logistics (IPC class B65), water treatment (IPC class C02), and quality modification/compounding (IPC class C09) have expanded, while organic chemistry (IPC class C07), signal-processing circuitry (IPC class H03), and petroleum/fuel conversion (IPC class C10) have declined. G06 and H04 together account for approximately 29% of the total portfolio and record the largest share increases (+1.63 and +1.28 percentage points); water treatment (C02F) and quality correction (C09K) expand by 0.62 and 0.38 percentage points, while organic chemistry (C07) shows the largest decline (−2.16 percentage points). Topic modeling identifies 10 topics in 2005–2014 and 11 in 2015–2024, with the later period newly featuring reverse logistics for reusable packaging, remanufacturing, chemical recycling for packaging, and data sources. Cross-domain network linkages rise from 49 to 68, with processing–logistics and post-treatment–standardization combinations showing the strongest structural strengthening. Industrially, these findings offer reference signals for firms aligning R&D and IP portfolios with domains of concentrated innovation, particularly AI-enabled sorting, digital connectivity, and feedstock quality correction. For policy, the strengthening of cross-domain linkages suggests that support for sorting infrastructure, traceability and data standards, and quality certification frameworks targets where R&D effort is most concentrated. Full article

Background/Objective: The present case demonstrates the successful preservation of a severely inflamed dental pulp despite uncontrolled bleeding occurring during pulpotomy. This novel therapeutic approach was developed when a 7-year-old boy presented for endodontic treatment one week after sustaining a crown-root fracture in an immature incisor. The tooth exhibited slight hypersensitivity to cold testing, with no tenderness to percussion or palpation. An exposed pulp was present; however, when he could avoid contact with the exposed pulp tissue, the patient reported no symptoms. Methods: The critical determinant of success when uncontrolled pulpal bleeding occurred following pulpotomy was the stepwise treatment in two visits and the bacteria-tight seal of the access cavity. The seal was achieved through the incremental application of the temporary filling material. A calcium hydroxide preparation was applied as interappointment topical pulp dressing. Four weeks after the initial visit the pulpotomy could be accomplished. Results: During 3.5 years of follow-up, the patient remained without symptoms and the tooth showed ongoing root growth in length and width combined with positive reaction to electric pulp testing. Conclusions: In summary, this case demonstrates that, despite persistent bleeding following pulpotomy, pulpal vitality can be preserved, thereby promoting continued root development. Full article

Background/Objectives: A matrix system for topical application was developed for a hydrophobic drug model, benzoyl peroxide (BPO), by turning it into its amorphous state to increase its bioavailability. BPO is commonly used to treat acne vulgaris; however, the commercially available products possess several drawbacks including poor absorption due to large crystal size and thus reduced efficacy and skin irritation. Methods: Several polymeric films containing amorphous BPO were successfully prepared for the first time from polymer + plasticizer colloidal dispersions and characterized. Results: The loaded BPO maintained its amorphous state even after 24 months of storage at 5 °C, and drug release could be modulated by adjusting the film compositions. The prepared films were obtained by solvent evaporation, and residual acetone remained below the level of quantification of the analytical method. In addition, the films were thin, flexible, transparent, bioadhesive, and able to remain on the skin for a clinically relevant period. Microscopic imaging confirmed a homogeneous and continuous morphology. Conclusions: The developed formulations may represent promising alternatives for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Full article

Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in male patients are a topic that has received less attention in the medical literature. Current management strategies recommended by most guidelines are largely based on research involving female populations, which limits their applicability to men, in whom UTIs are often considered complicated. While the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many changes in antibiotic treatment, this study aims to compare antimicrobial resistance patterns of uropathogens in male patients between the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic periods. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study including urine-culture positive cases in male patients was conducted at a tertiary-level university urology center in Bucharest, Romania. To assess temporal trends, the analysis used four selected six-month intervals during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022) and the post-pandemic period (2023–2025). Inclusion was limited to adult male patients aged at least 18 years who had a single identified pathogen and significant bacteriuria (at least 10⁵ CFU/mL). Duplicate and polymicrobial samples were excluded. In accordance with CLSI guidelines, bacteria were identified and antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using standard microbiological methods. Statistical analysis was made using Python 3.11.3. Results: A total of 3158 urine positive urine cultures from male patients were included. Gram-negative isolates were the most frequent, with E. coli being the most common urinary pathogen, followed by Klebsiella. The most common Gram-positive isolate was Enterococcus. Antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative pathogens were higher in the post-pandemic period compared to the pandemic period, particularly to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, and levofloxacin, with carbapenem resistance exceeding 20%. E. coli showed increased resistance rates to levofloxacin, and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, and ceftazidime. Resistance of Klebsiella spp. exceeded 30% for imipenem and meropenem. Resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic, ceftazidime, and imipenem acid increased in Proteus spp. Even though Pseudomonas spp. demonstrated higher resistance rates to several antibiotics, no statistical differences were observed. Enterococcus spp. showed a stable profile, demonstrating resistance to levofloxacin, penicillin, and ampicillin. Conclusion: Among male patients, uropathogens’ antimicrobial resistance was higher in the post-pandemic period compared to the COVID-19 period, particularly among Gram-negative bacteria. Regarding empirical therapy, there are significant concerns regarding the rise in resistance to antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones and β-lactams, as well as the emergence of resistance to carbapenems. Full article