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29 pages, 2840 KiB  
Review
Compositional Variability of Essential Oils and Their Bioactivity in Native and Invasive Erigeron Species
by Asta Judžentienė
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2989; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142989 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 188
Abstract
To date, various species of Erigeron genus have been used both in the ethnopharmacology of numerous nations across the world and in contemporary herbal practices. The objective of this study is to revise the phytochemical data on the essential oils (EOs) of various [...] Read more.
To date, various species of Erigeron genus have been used both in the ethnopharmacology of numerous nations across the world and in contemporary herbal practices. The objective of this study is to revise the phytochemical data on the essential oils (EOs) of various fleabanes species and to evaluate the variability of their biological activities. Up to June 2025, this review provides an updated overview of 105 literature sources (published during last 25 years) related to 14 Erigeron sp. (native, naturalized, or invasive) which have been investigated extensively and are of the greatest significance. It summarizes the compositional variability of the EOs and their pharmacological and toxic effects, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiproliferative, skin regeneration, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, insecticidal, larvicidal, repellent, and allelopathic activity. The EOs of each Erigeron species were characterized, and a chemical structure of 43 major constituents is presented herein. The most characteristic and prevalent compounds were found to be limonene, δ-3-carene, matricaria ester, lachnophyllum ester, germacrene D, β-caryophyllene, β-farnesene, α-bergamotene, allo-aromadendrene, etc., in the EOs from the E. acris, E. annuus, E. bonariensis, E. canadensis, E. floribundus E. mucronatus, and E. speciosus plants. Major constituents, such as borneol, bornyl acetate, modhephen-8-β-ol, cis-arteannuic alcohol, β-caryophyllene, and τ-cadinol, were found in the oils of E. graveolens (Inula graveolens). A paucity of data concerning E. incanus EOs was revealed, with the prevalence of 3-hydroxy-4-methoxy cinammic acid and thymol acetate noted in the oils. The EOs from E. multiradiatus and E. sublyratus were comprised mainly of matricaria and lachnophyllum esters. The available data on EOs of E. ramosus is limited, but the main constituents are known to be α-humulene, 1,8-cineole, eugenol, and globulol. The EOs containing appreciable amounts of matricaria and lachnophyllum esters exhibited strong anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, larvicidal, and repellent activities. Repellence is also related to borneol, bornyl acetate, caryophyllene derivatives, τ-cadinol, modhephen-8-β-ol, and cis-arteannuic alcohol. Cytotoxicity was determined due to the presence of limonene, δ-3-carene, α- and β-farnesene, (E)-β-ocimene, ledene oxide, sesquiphellandrene, and dendrolasin in the fleabanes EOs. Skin regeneration and antifungal properties were related to germacrene D; and anti-inflammatory effects were determined due to high amounts of limonene (E)-β-ocimene, lachnophyllum ester, and germacrene D. The antimicrobial properties of the oils were conditioned by appreciable quantities of limonene, β-pinene, 1,8-cineole, carvacrol, thymol acetae, β-eudesmol, 2,6,7,7α-tetrahydro-1,5-dimethyl-1H-indene-3-carboxaldehyde, caryophyllene and its oxide, allo-aromadendrene, α-humulene, farnesene, carvacrol, and eugenol. This review provides a foundation for further studies on volatile secondary metabolites to explore the potential sources of new biologically active compounds in Erigeron sp. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Featured Reviews in Natural Products Chemistry)
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10 pages, 572 KiB  
Article
Alpha-Amylase Activity in Feline Saliva: An Analytical Validation of an Automated Assay for Its Measurement and a Pilot Study on Its Changes Following Acute Stress and Due to Urinary Tract Pathologies
by Esmeralda Cañadas-Vidal, Alberto Muñoz-Prieto, Juan D. García-Martínez, Jose J. Ceron, Luis Pardo-Marín and Asta Tvarijonaviciute
Animals 2025, 15(14), 2074; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15142074 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 193
Abstract
Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) increases in response to stressful stimuli in a number of animal species, and it is considered a biomarker of sympathetic nervous system activation. However, no studies have been performed in which sAA has been measured in cats. The aim of [...] Read more.
Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) increases in response to stressful stimuli in a number of animal species, and it is considered a biomarker of sympathetic nervous system activation. However, no studies have been performed in which sAA has been measured in cats. The aim of this study was to perform an analytical and clinical validation of a commercially available automated assay for the determination of sAA in feline saliva. For the analytical validation, the precision, accuracy, and lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) were determined. To evaluate its response to acute stress, sAA was evaluated in feline saliva before and after stressful stimuli, consisting of a blood extraction. In addition, the sAA activity was compared between cats suffering from urinary tract pathologies and healthy controls. Analytical validation studies confirmed the method as being precise, accurate, and sufficiently sensitive for the sAA determination in cats. When the response to stress was evaluated, a statistically significant increase was detected in sAA in comparison with its activity before the blood extraction. In addition, cats with urinary tract diseases presented higher sAA activity than controls. The results of the present study indicate that sAA can be measured in feline saliva. This study could contribute to a wider use of the measurements of sAA in the saliva of cats and serve as a basis for future investigations aiming to assess acute stress in this species in a non-invasive manner. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)
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14 pages, 649 KiB  
Article
Body Appreciation, Weight Status, and Weight Management Practices Among First-Year Students at Universities of Applied Sciences in Lithuania
by Vilma Kriaučionienė, Asta Raskilienė, Lina Šnipaitienė and Janina Petkevičienė
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071223 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 203
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The associations between body appreciation, weight status, and weight management practices are influenced by societal, cultural, and psychological factors. Studies indicated that a higher level of body appreciation is linked to lower engagement in unhealthy weight management practices. The transition [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The associations between body appreciation, weight status, and weight management practices are influenced by societal, cultural, and psychological factors. Studies indicated that a higher level of body appreciation is linked to lower engagement in unhealthy weight management practices. The transition from high school to university is a significant life event, often accompanied by substantial lifestyle changes that can affect students’ body image and weight-related behaviours. This study aimed to assess the associations between body appreciation, weight status, and weight management behaviours among first-year students at four universities of applied sciences in Lithuania. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in 2022 among 709 first-year students (216 males and 493 females) at the four largest universities of applied sciences in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, and Šiauliai. Body appreciation was assessed using the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2), whilst BMI was calculated from self-reported height and weight. Students were asked about their weight management practices. Logistic regression analysis was applied to evaluate associations between weight management behaviours, body appreciation, and weight status. Results: Female students had a significantly lower median BMI (21.1 kg/m2) than males (23.3 kg/m2) but were more likely to perceive themselves as overweight (34.5% vs. 17.1%), worry about gaining weight (40.6% vs. 11.6%), and attempt weight loss (52.5% vs. 23.6%) (all p < 0.001). Higher BAS scores were associated with greater accuracy in weight perception, higher satisfaction with body weight, and fewer concerns about weight gain. Students with lower BAS scores were more likely to engage in harmful weight-control behaviours such as smoking (OR = 0.07; 95% CI: 0.02–0.25 for high vs. low BAS) and were more strongly influenced by media beauty standards and dissatisfaction with appearance. Conclusions: Body appreciation is linked to healthier weight perceptions and behaviours. Interventions that enhance body appreciation may help reduce body dissatisfaction and prevent unhealthy weight control practices, especially among female students. Full article
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35 pages, 3911 KiB  
Article
Novel Derivatives of 3-Amino-4-hydroxy-benzenesulfonamide: Synthesis, Binding to Carbonic Anhydrases, and Activity in Cancer Cell 2D and 3D Cultures
by Valdas Vainauskas, Rugilė Norvaišaitė, Birutė Grybaitė, Rita Vaickelionienė, Alexey Smirnov, Tautvydas Kojis, Lina Baranauskiene, Elena Manakova, Saulius Gražulis, Asta Zubrienė, Daumantas Matulis, Vytautas Mickevičius and Vilma Petrikaitė
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6466; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136466 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 710
Abstract
A series of novel derivatives of 3-amino-4-hydroxybenzenesulfonamide was synthesized. As the analyzed compounds possess a sulfonamide group, the affinity of these compounds for human carbonic anhydrases (CAs) was measured by fluorescent thermal shift assay, and compound selectivity for different isoenzymes was identified. The [...] Read more.
A series of novel derivatives of 3-amino-4-hydroxybenzenesulfonamide was synthesized. As the analyzed compounds possess a sulfonamide group, the affinity of these compounds for human carbonic anhydrases (CAs) was measured by fluorescent thermal shift assay, and compound selectivity for different isoenzymes was identified. The crystal structures of the complexes of compound 25 with CAI and CAII were determined. Additionally, the activity of compounds on the viability of three cancer cell lines—human glioblastoma U-87, triple-negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231, and prostate adenocarcinoma PPC-1—was established using the MTT assay and compared to CAIX-selective and non-selective comparative compounds U-104 and acetazolamide. The half-maximal concentration (EC50) was determined for the identified most active compounds, and their selectivity over fibroblasts was established. Compound 9 (inhibitor of multi-CAs) and compound 21 (not binding to CAs), considered the most promising candidates, were tested in cancer cell 3D cultures (cancer spheroids) by assessing their effect on spheroid growth and viability. Both compounds reduced the viability of spheroids from all cancer cell lines. U-87 and PPC-1 spheroids became looser in the presence of compound 9, while the growth of MDA-MB-231 spheroids was slower compared to the control. Compound 21 reduced the growth of U-87 and MDA-MB-231 3D cultures, with no significant effect on PPC-1 spheroids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Players in the Research of Oxidative Stress and Cancer)
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22 pages, 2462 KiB  
Project Report
Ensuring Measurement Integrity in Petroleum Logistics: Applying Standardized Methods, Protocols, and Corrections
by Asta Meškuotienė, Paulius Kaškonas, Benas Gabrielis Urbonavičius, Justina Dobilienė and Edita Raudienė
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 6886; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15126886 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 251
Abstract
This report analyzes the different standard methods of quantity measurement, which, when applied in the processes of receiving and transferring fuel quantities, lead to discrepancies and accounting losses. Three main factors contribute to these discrepancies: unavoidable errors of measuring devices (calibration uncertainty ranging [...] Read more.
This report analyzes the different standard methods of quantity measurement, which, when applied in the processes of receiving and transferring fuel quantities, lead to discrepancies and accounting losses. Three main factors contribute to these discrepancies: unavoidable errors of measuring devices (calibration uncertainty ranging from 0.1 to 0.5% at best), systematic errors due to non-applied corrections during transactions, and systematic errors due to different regulations, which result in inconsistent conversion rules applied throughout the entire purchase-production-sales chain. Modeling of air buoyancy effects showed that neglecting buoyancy correction can lead to measurable and economically significant discrepancies, especially in large-scale operations. The mass of light petroleum products can be underestimated by up to 0.15%, potentially resulting in approximately $3 million in annual financial losses for a medium-sized refinery processing 10,000 tonnes per day. These findings underscore the necessity of applying buoyancy corrections for conventional weighing, especially for liquid petroleum products (LPP) measured in open systems. Conversely, for LPG weighed in closed, pressurized containers, a constant correction factor (0.99985) applies, but its economic impact is negligible. Therefore, the study recommends omitting this LPG correction unless contractually required, to streamline processes and reduce complexity. Achieving result comparability throughout the entire petroleum supply chain requires implementing uniform quantity calculation provisions using calibrated instruments and standardized methods under different conditions. This necessitates that all measurement results are traceable to reference conditions (mass in vacuum, volume at +15 °C). The proposed algorithms for oil mass and volume measurement and recalculation highlight the need for unified international regulations and a robust system. Full article
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14 pages, 2172 KiB  
Article
Overexpression of CDCA2 in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Promotes Cell Proliferation and Bortezomib Sensitivity
by Hanne Due, Asta Brogaard, Issa Ismail Issa, Maja Zimmer Jakobsen, Cathrine Sylvester, Anne Krogh Nøhr, Louiza Bohn Thomsen, Martin Kristian Thomsen, Rasmus Froberg Brøndum and Karen Dybkær
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(12), 5596; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26125596 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 397
Abstract
Numerous clinical trials have attempted to improve first-line R-CHOP treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) through the addition or substitution of drugs. The REMoDL-B trial, testing the addition of bortezomib (RB-CHOP), revealed that ABC and molecular high-grade DLBCL patients benefit from bortezomib. [...] Read more.
Numerous clinical trials have attempted to improve first-line R-CHOP treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) through the addition or substitution of drugs. The REMoDL-B trial, testing the addition of bortezomib (RB-CHOP), revealed that ABC and molecular high-grade DLBCL patients benefit from bortezomib. The aim of this study was to achieve a better understanding of the bortezomib response in DLBCL through a functional investigation of clinically identified markers. A retrospective analysis of transcriptional and clinical data from the REMoDL-B trial was conducted to identify genes associated with bortezomib response, identifying CDCA2. DLBCL patients with high expression of CDCA2 had a superior survival outcome when treated with RB-CHOP in comparison to R-CHOP, whereas no difference in outcome was observed for patients with low CDCA2. Moreover, CDCA2 was found to be overexpressed in DLBCL compared to non-malignant tissue, and to have higher levels in GCB and MYC/BCL2 double-expressor patients. Functional in vitro and in vivo studies revealed that knockout of CDCA2 decreased DLBCL cell proliferation and a bortezomib dose–response analysis showed less sensitivity in CDCA2 knockout cells compared to control cells. This study shows that DLBCL patients with high CDCA2 expression benefitted from the addition of bortezomib to R-CHOP and functional studies documented a direct impact of CDCA2 on the bortezomib response in DLBCL cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Diagnosis and Treatment of Hematological Malignancies)
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19 pages, 531 KiB  
Article
Occupational Stressors and Workplace Challenges Faced by Seafarers in Lithuania: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Birute Strukcinskiene, Arturas Razbadauskas, Rasa Grigoliene, Aistė Jeriomenkaite, Jonas Jurgaitis, Vytenis Punys, Vyte Kontautiene, Asta Beniusiene, Dalia Martisauskiene, Erika Zuperkiene, Maria Papadakaki, Donata Zuperkaite and Agnieszka Genowska
Healthcare 2025, 13(11), 1334; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13111334 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Seafarers are a particularly isolated workforce, as they are on-site only with their colleagues, both on and off duty. Long-term duties in the sea environment, irregular working hours, changing time zones, and lack of sleep are some of the many factors that [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Seafarers are a particularly isolated workforce, as they are on-site only with their colleagues, both on and off duty. Long-term duties in the sea environment, irregular working hours, changing time zones, and lack of sleep are some of the many factors that negatively affect the physical and mental health of seafarers. This study aimed to explore the occupational stressors faced by seafarers in Lithuania using the HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool (HSE-MSIT). Methods: In 2023, a quantitative study, using a paper survey, of seafarers’ occupational stressors was conducted in Klaipeda city, Lithuania. A total of 385 Lithuanian seafarers participated in the study. Results: The greatest sources of stress at work were identified as changes at work, relationships, peer support, and management support. Role clarity, demands, and work control were not strong stressors for the seafarers. Analysis of perceived stress levels revealed notable differences between groups with different work experience and job positions. Analysis of years of service (0–11 years vs. 12+ years) found that seafarers with shorter service experienced more stress in terms of demands (p = 0.005), role clarity (p = 0.004), work control (p = 0.035), and relationships (p = 0.02). Based on job position (senior vs. junior), junior seafarers experienced significantly higher stress in the demands (p = 0.001) and role clarity (p = 0.009) subscales. The study revealed that job position and years of work had weak negative correlations with stress indicators at work. The Demands subscale was moderately positively correlated with relationships and change at work. The Relationships subscale was moderately positively correlated with peer support and change at work. Role clarity was moderately negatively correlated with change at work and relationships. Conclusions: Overall, changes at work, relationships, peer support, and management support in the working environment emerged as key factors of perceived stress among seafarers. Junior seafarers and seafarers with shorter years of service experienced higher stress at work. These findings may help in the development of targeted stress management and training strategies tailored to different profiles of seafarers. Full article
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24 pages, 1148 KiB  
Article
In-Feed vs. In-Water Chlortetracycline Administration on the Fecal Prevalence of Virulence Genes and Pathotypes of Escherichia coli Involved in Enteric Colibacillosis in Piglets
by Ramya Kalam, Raghavendra G. Amachawadi, Xiaorong Shi, Jianfa Bai, Mina Abbasi, Mike D. Tokach and Tiruvoor G. Nagaraja
Microorganisms 2025, 13(6), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13061185 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 442
Abstract
Colibacillosis in nursery pigs, caused by Escherichia coli (ETEC, EPEC, and STEC pathotypes), remains a major economic concern in the swine industry. This study evaluated the effects of in-feed or in-water chlortetracycline (CTC) administration on the fecal prevalence of virulence genes and pathotypes [...] Read more.
Colibacillosis in nursery pigs, caused by Escherichia coli (ETEC, EPEC, and STEC pathotypes), remains a major economic concern in the swine industry. This study evaluated the effects of in-feed or in-water chlortetracycline (CTC) administration on the fecal prevalence of virulence genes and pathotypes associated with colibacillosis. A total of 1296 weaned piglets (21 days old) were allocated to 48 pens (16 pens/treatment; 27 piglets/pen) and assigned randomly to no CTC, in-feed CTC, or in-water CTC groups. CTC was administered from days 0 to 14. Fecal samples from five piglets per pen on days 0, 14, and 28 were enriched, screened by 11-plex PCR, cultured for pathotypes, and tested for CTC susceptibility and tetracycline resistance genes. None of the 360 fecal samples or 3267 E. coli isolates were positive for bfpA or aggA. Prevalence of estB (96.9%) and astA (92.8%) was highest. ETEC was the dominant pathotype (41.2%), with astA (29%) and estB (21.9%) as predominant enterotoxin genes. CTC administration had no significant effect on fecal prevalence of virulence genes or pathotypes (p > 0.05). stx2 and STEC were detected only at day 28, all harboring stx2e. All pathotypes were CTC-resistant, with tetA as the predominant resistance gene. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Veterinary Microbiology)
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19 pages, 1260 KiB  
Article
Worries About Air Pollution from the Unsustainable Use of Studded Tires and Cruise Ships—A Preliminary Study on the Relationship Between Worries and Health Complaints Due to Seasonal Pollution
by Yvonne Höller, Lada Zelinski, Leon Daði Sesseljuson, Ara Dan Pálmadóttir, Asia Latini, Audrey Matthews, Ásta Margrét Ásmundsdóttir, Lárus Steinþór Guðmundsson and Ragnar Pétur Ólafsson
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4634; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104634 - 19 May 2025
Viewed by 667
Abstract
The relationship between ambient particulate matter (PM) and mental health conditions is well established. No study so far has investigated whether different sources of air pollution are associated with distinctive worries. We recruited n = 47 citizens living in an area with seasonal [...] Read more.
The relationship between ambient particulate matter (PM) and mental health conditions is well established. No study so far has investigated whether different sources of air pollution are associated with distinctive worries. We recruited n = 47 citizens living in an area with seasonal air pollution from studded tires (winter) and cruise ships (summer). We asked about seasonal well-being, symptoms of insomnia, migraine, and eco-anxiety, as well as worries about air pollution. Participants were more worried about air pollution from cruise ships as compared to studded tires (p = 0.013), which stands in contrast to PM caused by studded tires being more severe. There were significant correlations between worries about outdoor air pollution and insomnia symptoms (p = 0.003), worries about indoor air pollution and migraine symptoms (p < 0.001), worries about air pollution from studded tires and eco-anxiety (p = 0.001), and worries about air pollution from cruise ships and symptoms of migraine (p = 0.001). The low participation rate limits generalizability but is a result by itself because of the highly controversial topic of studded tires. We hypothesize that participation in studies set out to demonstrate negative effects of particulate matter needs to be strategically planned when the overall opinion of the population to be studied is positive towards the source of the hazardous pollution. Additionally, we hypothesize that the contribution of air pollution from different sources receives a varying degree of attention from the population. Further research into the relation between attitudes towards the unsustainable use of studded tires and perceived vs. real air pollution might help to design effective campaigns to influence decision-making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health, Well-Being and Sustainability)
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29 pages, 794 KiB  
Article
The Role of HRM Practices in Shaping a Positive Psychosocial Experience of Employees: Insights from the SCARF Model
by Asta Savanevičienė, Lina Girdauskienė and Živilė Stankevičiūtė
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104528 - 15 May 2025
Viewed by 749
Abstract
By integrating the concept of sustainable human resource management and Rock’s neuroscience-based SCARF (status, certainty, autonomy, relatedness, and fairness) model, the paper aims to reveal the role of sustainable HRM practices in shaping a positive psychosocial experience of employees. Through this process, qualitative [...] Read more.
By integrating the concept of sustainable human resource management and Rock’s neuroscience-based SCARF (status, certainty, autonomy, relatedness, and fairness) model, the paper aims to reveal the role of sustainable HRM practices in shaping a positive psychosocial experience of employees. Through this process, qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 50 STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) workers in Lithuania. The research revealed the key characteristics of sustainable HRM practices in terms of performance management, employee relations, rewards, employee development, career management, onboarding, and dismissal that shape positive experiences of STEM workers. Moreover, harmful HRM practice characteristics were identified that need to be eliminated to achieve sustainable human resource management. The results of the study allow organizations to better understand the role of HRM practices in enhancing positive psychosocial experiences of STEM employees through strengthening the domains of the SCARF model. Based on the insights obtained, organizations could better focus their efforts on the development of sustainable HRM practices that not only increase employee engagement but also contribute to their long-term professional sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Practices and Their Impacts on Organizational Behavior)
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15 pages, 2567 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Characterisation of Antimicrobial Resistance, Virulence Factors and Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) of Escherichia coli Isolated from Broiler Caeca
by Ah-Ran Lee, Martin John Woodward and Caroline Rymer
Animals 2025, 15(10), 1353; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15101353 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 449
Abstract
This study was undertaken to determine the effect of bird age and administering either Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis 1 (LL) or Limosilactobacillus fermentum 1 (LF) in the drinking water on the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance by phenotypic test, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and virulence [...] Read more.
This study was undertaken to determine the effect of bird age and administering either Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis 1 (LL) or Limosilactobacillus fermentum 1 (LF) in the drinking water on the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance by phenotypic test, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and virulence genes of Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated from broiler caeca by whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis. Male (Ross 308) day-old chicks (240) were reared for 28 days. Water was provided either untreated (CON) or with LL (107/mL) or LF (107/mL) via a nipple drinker on three days each week during the starter phase (days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 d) in eight replicate pens per treatment, with initially ten chicks per pen. One chick from each pen was sacrificed when LL or LF was added to the water, and again on d 14 and 28. There was no evidence that LL and LF had any effect on the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes in E. coli isolates. The population density of Lactobacillus sp. and coliforms decreased with age (p < 0.001). The high resistance of E. coli to ampicillin and tetracycline was maintained throughout the life of the broilers. The prevalence of virulence genes was greatest during the starter phase but declined when birds were 28 days of age (p < 0.05). In birds < 14 d of age, E. coli MLST 457, 1640, 1485 and 155 were dominant, and these carried iucD, irp2, astA, iutA and iroN genes. When birds were 28 d of age, MLST 1286, 1112 and 973 predominated, and these carried few virulence genes. This suggests that young birds were more susceptible to putative pathogenic E. coli than older birds. Supporting the development of a healthy microbiome that might control the proliferation of potentially pathogenic E. coli is an area of future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
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20 pages, 3689 KiB  
Article
Molecular Characterization, Antibiotic Resistance, and Biofilm Formation of Escherichia coli Isolated from Commercial Broilers from Four Chinese Provinces
by Saqib Nawaz, Muhammad Shoaib, Cuiqin Huang, Wei Jiang, Yinli Bao, Xiuyi Wu, Lianhua Nie, Wenyan Fan, Zhihao Wang, Zhaoguo Chen, Huifang Yin and Xiangan Han
Microorganisms 2025, 13(5), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13051017 - 28 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 743
Abstract
Escherichia coli (E. coli) represents a significant etiological agent of colibacillosis in poultry, resulting in considerable economic losses for the global poultry sector. The present study aimed to determine molecular characterization, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm formation of E. coli strains isolated [...] Read more.
Escherichia coli (E. coli) represents a significant etiological agent of colibacillosis in poultry, resulting in considerable economic losses for the global poultry sector. The present study aimed to determine molecular characterization, antibiotic resistance, and biofilm formation of E. coli strains isolated from diseased broilers from four provinces of China. A total of 200 tissue samples were collected from the intestine, liver, crop, heart, and spleen and processed for microbiological examination. Molecular detection of E. coli strains, virulence genes, and serotypes was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility testing and biofilm formation were assessed using disk diffusion and 96-well microtiter plate assays. The study retrieved 68% (136/200) of E. coli strains from collected samples. Most of the E. coli strains were resistant to enrofloxacin (56%), followed by cefepime (54%), amoxicillin/clavulanate (52%), streptomycin (50%), ampicillin (48%), clindamycin (47%), kanamycin (41%), polymyxin B (37%), tetracycline (35%), sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (33%), ceftazidime (31%), meropenem (4.7%), and florfenicol (2.9%). Similarly, the E. coli strains tested positive for at least one virulence gene and specific serotypes. Among these, O145 was the most prevalent serotype, identified in 22 isolates (16.2%), followed by O8 (12.5%), O102 (11.8%), and O9 (11.0%). The tsh gene (10.2%) was the most prevalent virulence gene. This study found that 47.1% of E. coli strains were biofilm-producing, with 62.5% exhibiting weak biofilm production, 29.7% mild biofilm production, and 7.8% strong biofilm production. Similarly, 24.2% of the E. coli strains were avian pathogenic E. coli strains due to the presence of five or more virulence genes, specifically tsh, ompA, fimC, iss, fyuA, and astA, in a single strain by multiplex PCR. The present study recommends continuous surveillance and effective control measures to reduce the burden of avian pathogenic E. coli-related infections in poultry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Poultry Pathogens and Poultry Diseases, 2nd Edition)
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12 pages, 711 KiB  
Article
Psychomotor Speed and Fall Risk in Older Adults with Sarcopenia and Frailty: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Justina Kilaitė, Rūta Dadelienė, Valentina Ginevičienė, Erinija Pranckevičienė, Asta Mastavičiūtė, Ieva Eglė Jamontaitė, Alina Urnikytė, Ildus I. Ahmetov and Vidmantas Alekna
Medicina 2025, 61(4), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61040706 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 687
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Information on how psychomotor speed is associated with the risk of falling is scarce, even in older adults. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between falls and psychomotor speed in older adults with sarcopenia and frailty. Materials [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Information on how psychomotor speed is associated with the risk of falling is scarce, even in older adults. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between falls and psychomotor speed in older adults with sarcopenia and frailty. Materials and Methods: A total of 204 subjects (aged 83 (77–87) years) participated in this study: 161 women (78.9%) and 43 men (21.1%). The history of falls was assessed by asking whether the subject had experienced a fall in the past 12 months. Psychomotor speed was evaluated by reaction time and frequency of movement. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the EWGSOP2 criteria. Frailty was confirmed if the participants met ≥3 criteria according to the Fried frailty criteria. The relationship between falls and psychomotor speed was measured using partial correlations. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to assess if psychomotor speed had an impact on falls. Results: Sarcopenia was confirmed in 93 (45.58%) and frailty in 91 (44.6%) subjects. Both sarcopenia and frailty were present in 62 (30.39%) participants. In the sarcopenia and frailty group, falls were related to simple reaction time (r = 0.444, p = 0.002), hand movement frequency in 10 s (r = −0.352, p = 0.014), and in 60 s (r = −0.312, p = 0.026). In women with sarcopenia and frailty, there were relationships between falls and simple reaction time (r = 0.68, p = 0.002), complex reaction time (r = 0.406, p = 0.004), hand movement frequency in 10 s (r = −0.614, p = 0.001), and in 60 s (r = −0.584, p = 0.001). In regression analysis, it was found that each millisecond increase in reaction time was associated with a 1.5% higher fall risk in the participants with sarcopenia (OR: 1.015 [1, 1.031], p = 0.048). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that slower psychomotor speed, particularly reaction time, is linked to a higher risk of falls in older adults with sarcopenia and frailty, especially in women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sports Medicine and Sports Traumatology)
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17 pages, 5370 KiB  
Article
Astaxanthin Mitigates ADHD Symptoms in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats via Dopaminergic Modulation and Brain–Gut Axis Regulation
by Yueyang Leng, Ning Wu, Jing Wang, Lihua Geng, Yang Yue and Quanbin Zhang
Molecules 2025, 30(7), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30071637 - 7 Apr 2025
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Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that significantly impacts learning, daily functioning, and personal development. Astaxanthin (ASTA), a naturally occurring antioxidant, has garnered interest as a potential therapeutic agent for various diseases, particularly in mitigating oxidative stress. This study [...] Read more.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that significantly impacts learning, daily functioning, and personal development. Astaxanthin (ASTA), a naturally occurring antioxidant, has garnered interest as a potential therapeutic agent for various diseases, particularly in mitigating oxidative stress. This study explores a novel application of ASTA in the context of ADHD, aiming to investigate its therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms. Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), widely used ADHD model animals, were treated with ASTA (50/100 mg/kg/day) for three weeks, 5 mg/kg/day atomoxetine (ATO) as the positive, and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats as control. Behavioral improvements were assessed using the open field test (OFT) and the Morris water maze (MWM). Biochemical analyses were conducted to evaluate changes in the levels of various neurotrophic factors, while histological examinations were performed to assess neuroprotective effects. Additionally, the role of ASTA in the brain–gut axis was investigated. The behavioral symptoms of hyperactivity, anxiety, and impaired spatial memory in ADHD animals were mitigated by ASTA. This improvement is primarily attributed to the restoration of neurotransmitter levels, particularly dopamine (DA), achieved through the modulation of several critical components within the dopamine system, including dopamine receptor 1 (DR1), dopamine transporter (DAT), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and synaptic-associated protein 25 (SNAP-25). Additionally, regulating the serotonin transporter (SERT) and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) supports the recovery of serotonin levels and facilitates optimal brain development. Furthermore, cerebellar cells were protected, and the structure of the intestinal microbiota was regulated. ASTA can mitigate ADHD symptoms in SHR through the modulation of the dopaminergic system, multiple neurotransmitters, neurotrophic factors, and the neuro-intestinal environment, which establishes ASTA as a promising nutraceutical candidate for adjunctive therapy in pediatric ADHD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Bioactive Organic Compounds for Drug Discovery, 2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 1387 KiB  
Article
Comparative Research of Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antiprotozoal and Cytotoxic Activities of Edible Suillus sp. Fruiting Body Extracts
by Asta Judžentienė and Jonas Šarlauskas
Foods 2025, 14(7), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14071130 - 25 Mar 2025
Viewed by 560
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate bioactive properties of Basidiomycota fungi, mainly Suillus sp. Wide spectrum of activities were revealed for S. variegatus, S. luteus, S. bovinus and S. granulatus; and obtained results were compared with other common fungi. Total Phenolic Content (TPC) [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate bioactive properties of Basidiomycota fungi, mainly Suillus sp. Wide spectrum of activities were revealed for S. variegatus, S. luteus, S. bovinus and S. granulatus; and obtained results were compared with other common fungi. Total Phenolic Content (TPC) varied from 245.32 ± 5.45 to 580.77 ± 13.10 (mg (GAE) per 100 g of dry weight) in methanolic extracts of S. bovinus and S. granulatus fruiting bodies, respectively. In ethyl acetate extracts, the highest TPC were obtained for S. variegatus (310 ± 9.68, mg (GAE)/100 g, dry matter), and the lowest means for S. luteus (105 ± 3.55, mg (GAE)/100 g dry weight). The ethyl acetate extracts of the tested Suillus species exhibited a stronger antioxidant activity (AA) to scavenge DPPH and ABTS•+ than the methanolic ones, and the highest effects were determined for S. luteus (EC50, 0.15 ± 0.05 and 0.23 ± 0.05%, respectively). In the case of methanolic extracts, the highest AA were evaluated for S. granulatus. (EC50 for DPPH and ABTS•+, 0.81 ± 0.30 and 0.95 ± 0.22%, respectively). The ABTS•+ scavenging potential varied from 0.25 ± 0.05 to 0.74 ± 0.10 (mmol/L, TROLOX equivalent, for S. granulatus and S. variegatus fruiting body extracts, respectively) in the ethyl acetate extracts. S. granulatus extracts demonstrated the widest range of antimicrobial effects against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (from 11.7 ± 1.3 to 28.5 ± 3.3 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus mycoides, respectively); and against two fungal strains (up to 13.6 ± 0.4 mm on Meyerozyma guilliermondii) in agar disc diffusion tests. Our study revealed that methanolic extracts of the most tested Suillus sp. were not active enough against the tested parasites: Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei, Leishmania infantum and Plasmodium falciparum. Only S. variegatus extracts showed good antiprotozoal effects against P. falciparum (12.70 µg/mL). Cytotoxic activity was observed on human diploid lung cells MRC-5 SV2 by S. granulatus extracts (64.45 µg/mL). For comparative purposes, extracts of other common Lithuanian fungi, such as Xerocomus sp. (X. badius, X. chrysenteron and X. subtomentosus), Tylopilus felleus, Phallus impudicus and Pycnoporus cinnabarinus were investigated for their activity. The P. cinnabarinus extracts demonstrated the highest and broadest overall effects: 1.32 µg/mL against T. brucei, 1.46 µg/mL against P. falciparum, 3.93 µg/mL against T. cruzi and 21.53 µg/mL against L. infantum. Additionally, this extract exhibited strong cytotoxicity on MRC-5 cells (13.05 µg/mL). The investigation of bioactive fungal metabolites is important for the development of a new generation of antioxidants, antimicrobials, antiparasitic and anticancer agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
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