Application of the OSNA Technique (One-Step Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) in Breast Cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in both countries with high and low levels of socio-academic development. Routine, regular screening tests being introduced in an increasing number of countries make it possible to detect breast cancer at an early stage of development, as a result of which the trend in the incidence of metastatic breast cancer has been decreasing in recent years. The latest guidelines for the treatment of this tumor do not recommend axillary dissection, which limits the need for rapid assessment of the nodes during surgery.

Special Issue: Molecular Research on Depression.

Depressive disorders (DDs) are responsible for a significant burden of disease in the human population [...

Potential Use of Selected Natural Compounds with Anti-Biofilm Activity.

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.

Enhancing the Solubility and Dissolution of Apigenin: Solid Dispersions Approach.

Apigenin (APG), a bioactive flavonoid with promising therapeutic potential, suffers from poor water solubility, which limits its bioavailability. To address this, solid dispersions of APG were prepared using ball milling with sodium alginate (SA), Pluronic F-68 (PLU68), Pluronic F-127 (PLU127), PVP K30, and PVP VA64 as polymeric excipients. These dispersions were screened for apparent solubility in water and buffers with pH 1.

The Role of Long Non-Coding RNA in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that leads to joint damage and physical dysfunction. The pathogenesis of RA is highly complex, involving genetic, epigenetic, immune, and metabolic factors, among others. Over the years, research has highlighted the importance of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in regulating gene expression.

The Modulatory Effect of Selol (Se IV) on Pro-Inflammatory Pathways in RAW 264.7 Macrophages.

Selol is a semi-synthetic mixture of selenized triglycerides. The results of biological studies revealed that Selol exhibits several anticancer effects. However, studies on its potential anti-inflammatory activity are scarce, and underlying signaling pathways are unknown.

Associations Between Diabetes Mellitus and Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and neurodegenerative diseases/disturbances are worldwide health problems. The most common chronic conditions diagnosed in persons 60 years and older are type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cognitive impairment. It was found that diabetes mellitus is a major risk for cognitive decline, dementia, Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative disorders.

In Vitro, In Vivo, Ex Vivo Characterisation of Dihydroimidazotriazinones and Their Thermal Decomposition Course Studied by Coupled and Simultaneous Thermal Analysis Methods.

The biological and thermal properties of a class of synthetic dihydroimidazotriazinones were disclosed in this article for the first time. Molecules --as potential innovative antimetabolites mimicking bicyclic aza-analogues of isocytosine-were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity. Moreover, in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo toxicity profiles of all the compounds were established in zebrafish, non-tumour cell, and erythrocyte models, respectively.

Non-Hypertensive Effects of Aldosterone.

Aldosterone, the primary adrenal mineralocorticoid hormone, as an integral part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), is crucial in blood pressure regulation and maintaining sodium and potassium levels. It interacts with the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) expressed in the kidney and promotes sodium and water reabsorption, thereby increasing blood pressure. However, MRs are additionally expressed in other cells, such as cardiomyocytes, the endothelium, neurons, or brown adipose tissue cells.

Predictive Value of Selected Plasma Biomarkers in the Assessment of the Occurrence and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease.

Despite significant advances in imaging modalities for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD), there remains a need for novel diagnostic approaches with high predictive values and fewer limitations. Circulating biomarkers, including cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), cell adhesion molecules such as soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), peptides secreted by endothelial cells such as endothelin-1 (ET-1), and enzymes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling such as a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-1 (ADAMTS-1) offer a promising alternative. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between the plasma levels of selected biomarkers and the presence and severity of CAD.

The Ocular Surface and the Anterior Segment of the Eye in the Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review.

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXS) is an age-related fibrillopathy where fibrillar exfoliation material accumulates and deposits in ocular and extra-ocular tissue. Within the eye, this substance accumulates on the ocular surface and in the anterior segment of the eye, impacting ocular structures such as the conjunctiva, Tenon's capsule, sclera, cornea, iris, ciliary body, trabecular meshwork, and lens. This review aims to collate the current literature on how each anatomical part of the eye is affected by PXS, with a strong focus on molecular changes.

IL-4, TSLP and IL-31 Cytokine Profiles as Related to Psychometric Measures in Patients with Mastocytosis.

Mastocytosis is a rare neoplastic disease of the bone marrow. Common symptoms like urticaria, diarrhea, bronchspasm and flushing are caused by mast cell degranulation and are mostly based on mast cell mediator release and Th2 type inflammation that occurs frequently in these patients. Psychological disorders are more prevalent in patients with systemic mastocytosis, though little is known about the mechanism behind this.

The Role of Heat Shock Protein (Hsp) Chaperones in Environmental Stress Adaptation and Virulence of Plant Pathogenic Bacteria.

Plant pathogenic bacteria are responsible for a substantial number of plant diseases worldwide, resulting in significant economic losses. Bacteria are exposed to numerous stress factors during their epiphytic life and within the host. Their ability to survive in the host and cause symptomatic infections depends on their capacity to overcome stressors.

The rs1544410 and rs11568820 Variants and the Risk of Osteoporosis in the Polish Population.

Vitamin D affects bone metabolism and calcium-phosphate metabolism. Its deficiency leads to bone mineralization disorders and is the cause of abnormal skeletal development from fetal life to the period of completed skeletal growth. In later periods of life, vitamin D deficiency leads to bone metabolism disorders, i.

Evaluation of Structure Prediction and Molecular Docking Tools for Therapeutic Peptides in Clinical Use and Trials Targeting Coronary Artery Disease.

This study evaluates the performance of various structure prediction tools and molecular docking platforms for therapeutic peptides targeting coronary artery disease (CAD). Structure prediction tools, including AlphaFold 3, I-TASSER 5.1, and PEP-FOLD 4, were employed to generate accurate peptide conformations.

Concise Overview of Methodologies Employed in the Study of Bacterial DNA Replication.

DNA replication is a fundamental process in the cell on which the functioning of the entire cell as well as the maintenance of the entire species depends. This process is synchronized with all other processes within the cell as well as with external, environmental factors. This complex network of interconnections presents significant challenges in the field of DNA replication research, both in terms of identifying an appropriate approach to a question posed and in terms of methodology.

Optimization of Compost and Peat Mixture Ratios for Production of Pepper Seedlings.

Substituting peat moss with compost derived from organic waste in plant nurseries presents a promising solution for reducing environmental impact, improving waste management, and enhancing soil health while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. However, selecting the appropriate proportions of both materials is crucial for each plant species. This study investigates the effects of different ratios of compost and peat mixtures on the growth and development of pepper seedlings.

Enhancing Therapy Adherence: Impact on Clinical Outcomes, Healthcare Costs, and Patient Quality of Life.

Adherence to therapy, defined as the extent to which a patient follows prescribed therapeutic recommendations, is a pivotal factor in the effective management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. This review highlights the profound influence of adherence on clinical outcomes, healthcare costs, and patient quality of life. Despite its critical importance, non-adherence remains a pervasive challenge globally, contributing to suboptimal treatment results, higher rates of complications, increased hospitalizations, and substantial healthcare expenditures.

Fibrous Dysplasia of the Ethmoid Bone Diagnosed in a 10-Year-Old Patient.

Fibrous dysplasia is an uncommon bone disorder affecting various parts of the skeleton, often affecting facial and cranial bones. In this case, a 10-year-old patient was diagnosed with fibrous dysplasia of the ethmoid sinus at an early age. The patient has experienced nasal congestion, snores, and worsening nasal patency since 2019.

Satisfaction and Preferences for Infusion Therapies in Advanced Parkinson's Disease-Patient Perspective.

The rapid growth of the number of advanced Parkinson's disease (PD) patients has caused a significant increase in the use of device-aided therapies (DATs), including levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) and continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion (CSAI). The objective of this study was to evaluate patients' satisfaction and the factors influencing preferences for CSAI and LCIG. The research focused on individuals diagnosed with advanced PD undergoing DAT at the Neurology Department of the University Hospital in Katowice.

Anti-Tick-Bourne Encephalitis IgM Intrathecal Synthesis as a Prediction Marker in Tick-Borne Encephalitis Patients.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of IgM anti-Tick-Borne Encephalitis (anti-TBE) intrathecal synthesis in the diagnosis and prediction of the clinical course of the disease. Thirty-six patients were included in the study (patients reported symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and nausea/vomiting). CRP, White Blood Cells (WBC), pleocytosis, Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) protein concentration, CSF albumin concentration, serum IgM, serum IgG, CSF IgM, CSF IgG, IgM Index, IgG Index, and IgG Index/IgM Index ratio were the parameters which were examined in the individuals.

Benefits of Immobilized Bacteria in Bioremediation of Sites Contaminated with Toxic Organic Compounds.

Although bioremediation is considered the most environmentally friendly and sustainable technique for remediating contaminated soil and water, it is most effective when combined with physicochemical methods, which allow for the preliminary removal of large quantities of pollutants. This allows microorganisms to efficiently eliminate the remaining contaminants. In addition to requiring the necessary genes and degradation pathways for specific substrates, as well as tolerance to adverse environmental conditions, microorganisms may perform below expectations.

Reusable Tourniquets as Potential Transmitters of Infection: A Microbiological Analysis.

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a significant global challenge, resulting in prolonged hospital stays, higher healthcare costs, and increased morbidity and mortality rates. Reusable medical equipment, such as tourniquets, represents a potential vector for infection transmission. Despite frequent use and close contact with patients' skin, infection control protocols often overlook these devices.

Circulation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Poland Between Seasons of 2009/2010 and 2022/2023 Based on SENTINEL System.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a prevalent pathogen of the respiratory tract, posing a significant threat to individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly the elderly and neonates in hospital settings. The primary objective of this study was to identify a specific period within the epidemic season during which healthcare providers can anticipate an increased incidence of RSV infections and characterize the epidemic season in Poland. Molecular biology techniques were employed to diagnose samples at Sanitary Stations and the National Institute of Public Health (NIC) in Warsaw.

Iron Homeostasis Dysregulation, Oro-Gastrointestinal Microbial Inflammatory Factors, and Alzheimer's Disease: A Narrative Review.

Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that profoundly impacts cognitive function and the nervous system. Emerging evidence highlights the pivotal roles of iron homeostasis dysregulation and microbial inflammatory factors in the oral and gut microbiome as potential contributors to the pathogenesis of AD. Iron homeostasis disruption can result in excessive intracellular iron accumulation, promoting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative damage.