Search Results (744)

Background: The movement of endemic diseases from tropical and disadvantaged areas is gradually spreading to developed countries as well. Amoebiasis, in particular, represents a significant threat to public health, amplified by globalization and increasing contact between humans and animals or vectors. In this way, atypical diseases may emerge in our country, also through an unusual mode of transmission—likely sexual, as “sexually transmitted enteric (STE) diseases”. Objective: We report and discuss the clinic approach to a rare case of dual human infestations by ecto- and endo-parasites with multiple liver abscesses presentation in a young truck driver residing in Northern Italy. Methods: The patient underwent a comprehensive screening with laboratory and microbiological tests, and CT images. Results: In July, the patient was admitted to our hepatology unit following the ultrasound identification of two hypoechoic lesions in the right lobe of the liver. In his medical history, in April, after a seemingly harmless infestation of body lice, effectively treated, he suffered from a prolonged and debilitating episode of acute diarrhea, lasting a month. This status was also accompanied by intestinal cramps, weight loss, and recurring fever episodes. Afterwards also appeared a Quincke’s-like angioedema involving the lips and mouth mucosa, with evening time exacerbation. Conclusions: The differential diagnosis of this complex and unusual clinical picture, together with the temporal evolution of the patient’s signs and symptoms, led us to hypothesize the presence of concomitant infections. These were most likely borreliosis and a STE disease, the latter ultimately diagnosed as amebiasis with hepatic invasion, allowing appropriate treatment and a favorable clinical outcome. Full article

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) is characterized by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells, resulting in insulin deficiency and persistent hyperglycemia, which impair bone metabolism and compromise post-extraction alveolar bone healing. Heterologous fibrin biopolymer (HFB) has previously demonstrated biocompatibility, biodegradability, bioactivity, and osteoconductive properties under normoglycemic conditions. Therefore, the study investigated the association of HFB with post-extraction alveolar bone healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, using the diabetic blood clot as a biological control. Forty-eight adult male Wistar rats were induced to DM1 by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (52 mg/kg). Animals were included after confirmation of hyperglycemia (fasting blood glucose ≥ 250 mg/dL) measured seven days after STZ administration: blood clot (BCG; n = 24) or HFB (HFBG; n = 24). Seven days after DM1 induction, the right maxillary incisor was extracted, and the sockets were filled according to group allocation. Animals were euthanized at 7, 14, and 42 days post-extraction. Fasting blood glucose levels were monitored, and pancreatic insulin immunohistochemistry was performed to characterize the diabetic condition. Alveolar bone healing was assessed by micro-CT, histological (HE), histomorphometric, and picrosirius red analyses. The diabetic phenotype was confirmed by persistent fasting hyperglycemia (260–589 mg/dL) and reduced pancreatic insulin immunostaining in β-cells. At 42 days, bone volume (BV) was 31.86% higher in the HFBG than in the BCG (p < 0.05). BCG exhibited higher trabecular number (Tb.N), while HFBG exhibited higher trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) (p < 0.05). Histologically, the HFBG shows a more mature, compact, and organized bone structure, whereas the BCG presents bone tissue with a more trabecular and immature architecture. HFBG showed the lowest percentage of thin fibers at the late stage, whereas BCG maintained similar values from 14 to 42 days (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that HFB was associated with favorable changes in selected late-stage parameters of post-extraction alveolar bone healing in an STZ-induced diabetic model. Full article

This paper traces the historical transformation of the scientific and legal conceptions of nonhuman primates’ minds from the nineteenth century to the present, focusing on the emergence of self-awareness as a criterion for legal protection. It argues that scientific developments reshaped animal law by shifting attention from animals’ capacity to suffer toward their capacity to possess a self. Drawing on scientific publications, legal documents, and animal rights litigation, this paper examines how experimental approaches to simian cognition, especially Gordon Gallup’s mirror self-recognition (MSR) test, became foundational evidence in campaigns for nonhuman legal personhood. This study centers on the 2013 habeas corpus petition filed on behalf of the chimpanzee Tommy by the Nonhuman Rights Project, showing how scientific claims about chimpanzee cognition entered the courtroom through expert affidavits. By situating these legal developments within longer histories of primate research, colonial extraction, and debates over species difference, this paper demonstrates that the scientific and legal definitions of the chimpanzee and of the legal subject were redrawn together. The rise in cognitively grounded animal rights does reproduce hierarchies based on perceived proximity to humans, as critics have argued. But the figure against which that proximity was measured was itself being remade at each turn. Full article

The return of the wolf is causing controversy. Herders (hereafter referred to interchangeably as shepherds) are among the groups most strongly affected and yet scarcely investigated. Using a mixed-methods online questionnaire, 82 German-speaking herders provided information on their assessment of the wolf’s return, their perception of the risk to their livestock, and their evaluation of the socio-political debate. Overall, the shepherds view the wolf rather critically; at the same time, their opinions are nuanced: opposition is less pronounced than might be expected based on similar studies. Negative assessments are grounded in three ethical lines of reasoning: agent-centered, since the wolf increases the workload and mental strain for the shepherds; anthropocentric, as it threatens pastoral farming; and pathocentric, because the grazing animals suffer from its presence. Positive assessments reflect biocentric–holistic arguments, according to which the wolf has a right to exist and is welcomed as part of a diverse natural environment. In addition, supporters point out that the wolf’s return leads to greater appreciation of the shepherding profession. The effectiveness of herd protection measures is subject to widely differing assessments. Generally, the wolf is considered one of several risk factors; however, unlike force majeure events such as lightning strikes or falls, the wolf is perceived by critical voices as anthropogenic and therefore avoidable. The perception that the wolf’s return has been intentionally facilitated by humans appears to reinforce the rejection. Respondents criticize the socio-political debate on the wolf as detached from practical realities, dominated by actors who lack on-site experience and are not directly affected. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hydrogen gas (H₂) inhalation has shown neuroprotective effects in neonatal hypoxic–ischemic models. However, its impact on pulmonary endothelial activation and respiratory function after hypoxic–ischemic insult remains unclear. This study investigated whether H₂ inhalation augments pulmonary endothelial activation or impairs pulmonary function during the acute phase after neonatal hypoxic–ischemic injury. Methods: Sixteen newborn Camborough^® piglets within 24 h of birth were subjected to hypoxic–ischemic insult and randomized to an untreated group (HI, n = 8) or an H₂-treated group (HI-H₂, n = 8). The HI-H₂ group received 2.1–2.7% H₂ for 6 h. Pulmonary ICAM-1 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression were assessed by immunofluorescence, lung neutrophils were quantified histologically, and pulmonary function was evaluated using arterial blood gases, oxygen index, and alveolar–arterial oxygen difference. The relationship between lung neutrophil counts and right ventricular cardiac output was also examined. Results: H₂ inhalation did not increase pulmonary ICAM-1 expression or iNOS induction compared with untreated animals. Although lung neutrophil counts were significantly higher in the HI-H₂ group, pulmonary gas exchange remained preserved, with no significant differences in arterial blood gases, oxygen index, or alveolar–arterial oxygen difference. Lung neutrophil counts were positively correlated with right ventricular cardiac output, suggesting that enhanced pulmonary perfusion may contribute to neutrophil redistribution rather than inflammatory recruitment. Conclusions: H₂ inhalation preserved pulmonary endothelial homeostasis without impairing respiratory function during the acute phase after neonatal hypoxic–ischemic insult. The observed increase in lung neutrophils was not accompanied by evidence of endothelial activation or deterioration of gas exchange, supporting the acute pulmonary safety of H₂ inhalation while suggesting that neutrophil accumulation may, at least in part, reflect hemodynamic redistribution rather than injurious inflammatory infiltration. Full article

Ecological civilization refers to the harmonious development of humanity and nature, with its core essence lying in respecting nature and rejecting “anthropocentrism”—a concept that aligns perfectly with the principles of animal protection. The protection of laboratory animals, which are most closely tied to human scientific progress, is particularly crucial. For centuries, laboratory animals have served as substitutes and models for humans, treated merely as tools. With the advancement of humanitarianism, however, the protection of laboratory animal welfare has gradually gained greater attention. China has established a system for protecting the welfare of laboratory animals through foundational laws and tiered standards, translating internationally recognized animal protection concepts—such as the “3Rs” principle and the Five Freedoms—into actionable operational requirements, thereby implementing concrete measures to safeguard the welfare of laboratory animals. However, China’s relevant standards still face issues such as insufficient enforcement and a lack of mandatory provisions. To safeguard the welfare and rights of laboratory animals, China must integrate animal welfare into the development of an ecological civilization, improve laws and regulations, strengthen talent development, promote technological innovation, and establish a comprehensive system of standards to ensure the welfare of laboratory animals. Full article

Background/Objectives: The rapid growth of the companion animal industry has increased demand for professional pet grooming services; however, occupational health risks among pet groomers remain underexplored. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), occupational burnout, and associated occupational and ergonomic factors and their interrelationships among pet grooming professionals. Methods: A total of 180 pet grooming professionals were recruited through geographically stratified convenience sampling across northern, central, and southern Taiwan. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing demographics, workload, ergonomic equipment, and working postures. MSD symptoms were evaluated using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, and occupational burnout was assessed using the Taiwan Ministry of Labor Burnout Assessment Scale. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson’s correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with MSD severity and occupational burnout. Results: MSDs were highly prevalent, with 95% of participants reporting symptoms in at least one body region. The most affected regions were the right shoulder (71.7%), neck (70.6%), upper back (65.6%), and lower back (65.6%). Significant associated ergonomic factors included excessive bathing tub depth (≥46 cm), non-adjustable grooming tables, prolonged trunk flexion, and horse-stance postures. Higher workload intensity, including frequent bathing tasks and handling aggressive or large animals, was significantly associated with greater MSD severity (p < 0.05). Moderate-to-severe personal- and work-related burnout were identified in 43.3% and 37.2% of participants, respectively. MSD severity was positively correlated with personal-related burnout (r = 0.491, p < 0.001) and work-related burnout (r = 0.428, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis results indicated the MSD score was a significant predictor of both personal- and work-related burnout (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Pet grooming professionals experience a substantial burden of MSDs and occupational burnout associated with ergonomic strain and physically demanding work. Non-neutral postures and inadequately designed equipment were significantly associated with greater MSD severity. The close association between MSDs and burnout underscores the interrelationship between physical and psychological occupational health. Ergonomic workplace modifications and targeted occupational health interventions are necessary to improve worker well-being and industry sustainability. Full article

Myocardial and aortic stiffness are increasingly recognized as clinically relevant biomarkers for cardiovascular disease, yet their noninvasive quantification remains challenging. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) has emerged as a promising technique for the spatial mapping of tissue biomechanics by visualizing and analyzing propagating shear waves. This narrative review summarizes the current state of cardiovascular MRE, spanning technical developments in wave generation (acoustic, electromagnetic, gravitational, and transducer-free approaches), pulse sequence design (echo-planar imaging, gradient-recalled echo, spiral, and free-breathing three-dimensional acquisitions), and inversion algorithms (local frequency estimation, direct inversion, finite element methods, and multifrequency elastography). We present evidence from phantom validation, animal models (myocardial infarction, hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy), and human studies encompassing cardiac amyloidosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, diastolic dysfunction, and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Additionally, we discuss current challenges, including waveguide effects, standardization needs, and clinical translation barriers, and highlight emerging solutions through artificial intelligence, multifrequency methods, and transducer-free cardiac MRE. Full article

Hypercaloric diet and obesity are strongly associated with cardiovascular dysfunction, diabetes and hypertension development mediated by sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity. In addition to the adrenergic system, purinergic signaling has emerged as a relevant modulator of cardiovascular physiopathology. However, its role in hypercaloric diet-induced cardiovascular dysfunction remains incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of a hypercaloric diet on metabolic parameters, atrial purinergic modulation and vascular reactivity. Rats fed the hypercaloric diet consumed a diet with ~31% greater caloric density than control animals that received a standard (3.5 kcal/g) pellet diet for 8 weeks. Metabolic and cardiovascular parameters were measured, and isolated right atria (RA), left atria (LA) and thoracic aortic vessels were used to evaluate function, contractility and vascular responsiveness. A hypercaloric diet significantly increased body weight and visceral adiposity, with elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) and cardiac hypertrophy, associated with alterations in glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. In isolated atria, a hypercaloric diet increased basal contractile force in the LA. Also, ATP induced a biphasic response characterized by an initial negative inotropic effect (NIE) followed by a positive inotropic effect (PIE). A hypercaloric diet reduced ATP-mediated NIE and enhanced PIE in both atria, suggesting an altered balance between inhibitory-P1 and excitatory-P2 purinergic signaling. At the vascular level, a hypercaloric diet impaired adenosine-mediated relaxation and increased contraction, indicating vascular hyperreactivity. Collectively, these findings suggest that a hypercaloric diet induces cardiometabolic dysfunction associated with alterations in cardiovascular function linked to impaired P1/P2 purinergic regulation, contributing to obesity-associated cardiovascular remodeling and hypertension. Full article

This study investigates the behavioral adaptation and entry preferences of dairy cows entering a Lely Astronaut A5 Automatic Milking System (AMS). The research specifically focuses on the transition period required for cows to achieve independent AMS entry post-calving and evaluates daily milking frequencies across different parities (1st lactation, n = 31; 2nd lactation, n = 60; and ≥3rd lactation, n = 24). Spatial preferences for two physically distinct AMS units (left- versus right-sided configurations) were also assessed. Results show that primiparous cows achieved independent AMS entry (defined as a threshold of ≥2.5 voluntary milkings/day) by the 23rd day post-calving, whereas multiparous cows (both 2nd and ≥3rd lactation groups) established stable, autonomous visitation patterns much earlier, by day 4 postpartum. Furthermore, parity significantly influenced spatial unit-use patterns; while primiparous and second-lactation cows distributed their visits evenly between the two robots, older multiparous cows (≥3rd lactation) exhibited a higher utilization of the left-sided AMS unit, which accounted for 50.0% to 67.5% of their total daily visits. This spatial choice may be associated with differences in age and previous experience, and potentially with social hierarchy; however, this study does not include direct behavioral observations to confirm dominance relationships. Polynomial regression analyses revealed a non-linear relationship between voluntary visitation rates and daily milk yield, characterized by distinct performance plateaus. These findings underscore the importance of parity-specific management, such as pre-calving AMS training and familiarization protocols for heifers, to optimize robotic dairy efficiency and animal welfare. Full article

Psychiatric assistance dogs (PADs) are increasingly recognised as complementary supports for individuals with mental health conditions, yet their role in everyday functioning as well as handler and animal welfare remains underexplored. This study explored how PADs are used by individuals with a range of mental health conditions, the benefits they provide, and any challenges experienced in terms of both handler and animal well-being. An online mixed-methods survey was conducted, yielding 85 valid responses. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively; qualitative responses were examined using Leximancer. Findings suggest that PADs provide benefits beyond specific trained tasks, offering ongoing support that helps handlers feel safer and more able to engage in activities of daily living and mental health treatment. At the same time, participants reported challenges such as stigma, public misunderstanding of public access rights, and financial costs, which can limit the effectiveness of PAD support. Many participants also reported relying heavily on their PAD, which may have detrimental consequences for the well-being of both handler and animal. These findings highlight the importance of improving public awareness, access, and support systems to maximise the benefits of PADs and help ensure the well-being and safety of both PADs and their handlers. Future research should consider both human and animal perspectives in greater depth to better understand these partnerships. Full article

Innovation in animal breeding is shifting from traditional phenotypic selection towards a biotechnology-intensive paradigm centred on genetic engineering, necessitating robust intellectual property protection. Unlike for plants, no unified international protection system exists for animal varieties. The European Union has established a distinctive framework for the patent protection of animal varieties through the application of exclusion rules, judicial interpretations, and ethical review mechanisms. An examination of its historical evolution reveals three distinct phases: initiation, expansion, and retrenchment. The EU’s approach reflects an ongoing effort to reconcile the imperatives of biotechnological innovation, the safeguarding of agricultural public resources, and ethical legitimacy. Nevertheless, interpretive divergences have persistently blurred the distinction between “technical processes” and “essentially biological processes,” while the shift in ethical review from a utilitarian balancing test to a value-based prohibition model has further diminished the system’s predictability. Drawing lessons from the EU experience and considering China’s imperative to revitalise its seed industry, this paper proposes that China should not simply expand the scope of patent protection. Rather, inspired by the plant variety rights system, China should consider establishing a sui generis animal variety rights regime. Concurrently, differentiated authorization criteria should be formulated, with clearly defined ethical and ecological boundaries and explicit limitations on rights, so as to strike a sustainable balance among innovation incentives, the public interest, and ethical considerations. Full article

Background/Objectives: School feeding is a fundamental component of public policies aimed at promoting health, improving educational outcomes, reducing inequalities, and guaranteeing the human right to adequate food. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional quality of school meals offered to public school students in a federal unit of Brazil, quantify the environmental impacts using carbon and water footprints, and simulate potential reductions through a strict vegetarian menu. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive study analyzed 130 daily menus (390 meals) from full-time public schools in the Federal District of Brazil in 2024. Nutritional quality was assessed based on energy, nutrients, food groups, degree of processing, and food origin. Carbon and water footprints were estimated using literature-based indicators. A nutritionally adequate strict vegetarian menu was then developed and compared with the observed menus. Results: The current menus presented good overall nutritional quality, with high food diversity and predominance of fresh or minimally processed foods. Most nutritional parameters met the recommended levels; however, protein and saturated fat exceeded the recommended limits. Animal-based foods accounted for most of the carbon and water footprints. The simulated strict vegetarian menu demonstrated significantly lower environmental impacts while maintaining nutritional adequacy. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of integrating nutritional and environmental strategies, such as a weekly “Meatless Monday” initiative alongside food and nutrition education, to improve student health outcomes and reduce the environmental burden of public school meals. Incorporating environmental sustainability criteria into school meal planning and public food procurement may advance nutritional quality, resource efficiency, and climate goals, positioning school feeding programs as strategic instruments for sustainable development. Full article

Urbanisation is reshaping ecosystems and increasing human–wildlife interactions. Wild boar (Sus scrofa), a highly adaptable species, is increasingly common in European cities, where it exploits natural and anthropogenic resources, often leading to conflict. Predicting when and where wild boars enter urban areas remains challenging, particularly using scalable tools such as remote sensing. Here, we show that temporal and spatial drivers of urban presence are decoupled in Barcelona over a 14-year period. Seasonal vegetation dynamics influenced the timing of urban incursions, with peaks in spring and late summer associated with changes in vegetation moisture and likely reinforced by increased energetic demands during reproduction and early lactation. However, remotely sensed vegetation indices captured these dynamics only partially, limiting their predictive power when used alone. Spatial variation in urban green area use was primarily explained by landscape structure, with proximity to streams and habitat fragmentation contributing similarly. Green areas near natural corridors were concentrated higher and had more variable presence, while heterogeneous landscapes likely facilitated repeated use by increasing access to foraging and refuge. Integrating remote sensing with landscape metrics can improve the anticipation and management of human–wildlife conflicts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Achilles tendon injuries exhibit slow and incomplete healing due to limited vascularity, cellularity, and a complex extracellular matrix (ECM). Biologically derived ECM-based therapies have emerged as promising strategies to enhance tendon repair by providing native biochemical cues. In this study, the efficacy of injectable human tendon-derived ECM (hT-ECM) was investigated using a rat Achilles tenotomy model. Methods: Percutaneous tenotomy of the right Achilles tendon in 50 rats was performed. The animals were subjected to either no treatment as a control group (CON) or hT-ECM treatment group (ECM). Tendon healing was evaluated at 1 and 6 weeks using biomechanical, histological, transmission electron microscopy, Western blot, and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: At 6 weeks, the ECM group exhibited higher load to failure (54.5 ± 15.0 N) than the CON group (28.6 ± 13.7 N) (p < 0.05). Histological evaluation revealed progressive restoration of the injured tendon in both groups over the healing period, with comparable results observed between the groups. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that the ECM group exhibited significantly increased collagen fibrils diameters (74.1 ± 19.1 nm) than the CON group (53.8 ± 13.8 nm) (p < 0.001). Western blot exhibited that collagen I (COL I) expression at 6 weeks was significantly higher in the ECM group compared with the CON group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These outcomes suggest that injectable hT-ECM improves early repair responses in a rat Achilles tenotomy model. Molecular analyses suggested that the therapeutic effects of hT-ECM injection could be linked to enhanced collagen type I production. Based on the study, hT-ECM injection might be a good adjuvant option for the treatment of Achilles tendon injuries. Full article