Search Results (337)

Water treadmill (WT) exercise is used for horses’ rehabilitation and training. Given that each training needs to be individualized for each horse, the goal is to assess whether infrared thermography (IRT) can serve as a non-invasive tool for daily monitoring of individual training and rehabilitation progress in horses undergoing WT exercise. Fifteen Polish Warmblood school horses were subjected to five WT sessions: dry treadmill, fetlock-depth water, fetlock-depth water with artificial river (AR), carpal-depth water, and carpal-depth water with AR. IRT images, collected pre- and post-exercise, were analyzed for the mean temperature (Tmean) and maximal temperature (Tmax) across 14 regions of interest (ROIs) representing the body surface overlying specific superficial muscles. While on a dry treadmill, Tmean and Tmax increased post-exercise in all ROIs; wetting of the hair coat limited surface temperature analysis in ROIs annotated on limbs. Tmax over the m. brachiocephalicus, m. trapezius pars cervicalis, m. triceps brachii, and m. semitendinosus increased during walking in carpal-depth water, which therefore may be suggested as an indirect indicator of increased activity related to forelimb protraction and flexion–extension of the limb joints. Tmax over the m. latissimus dorsi and m. longissimus increased during carpal-depth WT exercise with active AR mode, which may be suggested as an indicator of increased workload including vertical displacement of the trunk. Full article

Tinea incognito is an incorrectly diagnosed form of fungal infection due to a changed clinical picture as a result of systemic or topical corticosteroids or even local immunomodulators. This type of skin lesion is most often located on the trunk but can affect any part of the body. We present a case report of 76-year-old woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus who was admitted to hospital because of extensive, painful, and burning erythematous and papular lesions in an annular pattern, covered with a thick, yellow crust, located on the scalp and neck. The skin lesions were accompanied by extensive hair loss. The patient had previously undergone intensified treatment of the underlying disease due to the exacerbation of skin lesions of a subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus type. A suspicion of tinea incognito was raised, and direct mycological examination and culture confirmed the presence of dermatophytes (Microsporum spp.). Tinea incognito can be difficult to diagnose because the clinical picture is relatively nonspecific and can mimic other dermatoses, such as subacute lupus erythematosus. Therefore, in doubtful cases it is necessary to perform a direct test and culture for fungal infection, especially before initiating treatment with glucocorticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents. Full article

The determination of the live body weight of camels (required for their successful breeding) is a rather difficult task due to the problems with handling and restraining these animals. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to predict the ABW of eight indigenous camel (Camelus dromedarius) breeds of Pakistan (Bravhi, Kachi, Kharani, Kohi, Lassi, Makrani, Pishin, and Rodbari). Selected productive (hair production, milk yield per lactation, and lactation length) and reproductive (age of puberty, age at first breeding, gestation period, dry period, and calving interval) traits served as the predictors. Six data mining methods [classification and regression trees (CARTs), chi-square automatic interaction detector (CHAID), exhaustive CHAID (EXCHAID), multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARSs), MLP, and RBF] were applied for ABW prediction. Additionally, hierarchical cluster analysis with Euclidean distance was performed for the phenotypic characterization of the camel breeds. The highest Pearson correlation coefficient between the observed and predicted values (0.84, p < 0.05) was obtained for MLP, which was also characterized by the lowest root-mean-square error (RMSE) (20.86 kg), standard deviation ratio (SD_ratio) (0.54), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) (2.44%), and mean absolute deviation (MAD) (16.45 kg). The most influential predictor for all the models was the camel breed. The applied methods allowed for the moderately accurate prediction of ABW (average R² equal to 65.0%) and the identification of the most important productive and reproductive traits affecting its value. However, one important limitation of the present study is its relatively small dataset, especially for training the ANN (MLP and RBF). Hence, the obtained preliminary results should be validated on larger datasets in the future. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a complicated chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by recurrent and painful deep-seated nodules, abscesses, fistulae, scarring, and sinus tracts. HS most commonly affects high-density hair follicles and apocrine gland-rich regions of the body, including the axillae, inguinal folds, breasts, and perianal areas. Although genetic predisposition and environmental factors are known to contribute to the development and the severity of HS, the molecular mechanisms of HS are largely unknown. Methods: In this study, we employed global epigenetic and genomic data analysis and single-nucleus ATAC-seq (snATAC-seq) to profile the heterogeneity of HS-associated chromatin accessibility and define the underlying disease drivers. We additionally performed high-resolution immunofluorescence staining to confirm a novel candidate regulator. Results: We found that multiple skin development modules and molecular signal pathways were epigenetically dysregulated in HS basal CD49f^high cells. Importantly, our snATAC-seq revealed a previously unraveled role for a transcription factor, ATF3, in transcriptionally regulating HS-associated genes. We also delineated the specific ATF3 expression pattern across the HS lesional skin. Conclusions: We characterize HS-specific epigenetic plasticity and chromatin state at the single-nucleus level and further underscore a possible mechanism for HS pathogenesis. Full article

The expected cutaneous adverse effects (CAE) of oncology therapies can be disabling and even force the patient to discontinue treatment. The incorporation of cosmetics into skin care regimens (SCRs) as true therapeutic adjuvants can prevent, control, and avoid sequelae. However, cosmetics may also lead to adverse reactions in patients. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of the tolerability of cosmetics used in routine skin care on quality of life in this vulnerable population group through a survey. In addition, information was collected to improve the knowledge of the beneficial effects of cosmetics and the composition recommended. Hospital nurses guided the patients to fill in the surveys, which were done once. The main uses are related to daily hygiene care, photoprotection, and dermo-cosmetic treatment to prevent or at least reduce the skin’s adverse effects. More than 30% (36.36%) of patients perceived undesirable effects or discomfort with the use of cosmetics (27.27% in the facial area, 27.27% in the body and hands, and 22.73% in the scalp and hair). Intolerance was described for some soaps and creams used in the facial area. This study provides additional evidence on perceived tolerance supporting updates of clinical practice guidelines, highlights consolidated knowledge and evidence on the use of cosmetics, as well as new recommendations on the use and composition of cosmetics intended for oncological patients. There is a need for more knowledge about cosmetic ingredients and formulations, including ingredients of concern, such as endocrine disruptors. Full article

Herein, we present scanning electron microscopy imagery of Demodex folliculorum on the eyelashes of a patient with a two-year history of dry, burning, and watery eyes. Demodex mites are part of the normal human skin flora, inhabiting hair follicles and sebaceous glands. However, in some individuals, they may contribute to ocular surface diseases, including blepharitis and dry eye disease. Symptoms often include itching, photophobia, and a foreign body sensation. The pathogenic role of Demodex is not fully understood but may involve microabrasions, gland obstruction, hypersensitivity reactions, and bacterial dysbiosis. The presence of collarettes at the base of eyelashes is a diagnostic hallmark. Although optimal treatment remains debated, options include topical tea tree oil, ivermectin, and a recently FDA-approved drug lotilaner. Our patient responded favorably to a two-month regimen of tea tree oil-based eyelid wipes. This case underscores the clinical relevance of Demodex infestation in chronic ocular discomfort and highlights the importance of diagnostics. Full article

Hirsutism, characterized by excessive terminal hair growth in androgen-sensitive areas, presents significant medical and psychosocial challenges in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This narrative review explores the epidemiology, endocrine factors, molecular basis of pathophysiology, cultural influences, and management approaches to hirsutism within the GCC. Regional factors such as consanguinity, rising obesity rates, and lifestyle habits contribute to a higher prevalence of hirsutism and related endocrine disorders, particularly polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Cultural stigmas surrounding body hair further delay diagnosis and treatment, compounding psychological distress. The review examines the role of androgen excess, genetic susceptibility, and emerging molecular insights, including epigenetic dysregulations. Diagnostic limitations and the need for region-specific screening tools are discussed, alongside the current reliance on pharmacological, cosmetic, and traditional therapies. Public health initiatives targeting stigma reduction and early detection are emphasized. Future recommendations include culturally tailored research, enhanced public awareness, and the adoption of advanced diagnostic strategies to improve patient outcomes. This review aims to guide healthcare practices and inform policy development for the better management of hirsutism in the GCC context. Full article

The roan coat color is described as the dispersion of white hairs within an otherwise solid background color coat. This phenotype is primarily expressed on the body of the horse, with the head and legs exhibiting few to no white hairs. Previous studies mapped the locus for roan to the KIT region and observed linked variants in a small number of breeds. However, utilizing those linked markers to determine the roan genotype in other breeds has seen limited success. In this communication we identify a second roan allele (RN2) which, in conjunction with a previously observed roan allele (RN1) discovered in previous studies, accounts for approximately 74%, or 188 horses, out of a sample size totaling 257 roan horses. These two alleles were present in the non-roan population (N = 3212) at less than 1%, only in horses with light coat color and dilution alleles, likely obscuring the roan phenotype. Future work is required to identify additional alleles responsible for additional roan-type horse coat color phenotypic variation. Full article

We describe a new genus and species of the tribe Ichthyomyini (Rodentia: Sigmodontinae) based on three specimens collected in Machupicchu, Cusco, in the southern Peruvian Andes. Our study includes a comprehensive morphological analysis of 201 specimens representing all recognized species, employing multivariate statistics (principal component analysis) of external and cranial measurements, as well as phylogenetic methods. We used maximum parsimony for morphological data and concatenated molecular datasets (Cytochrome b [17 species], IRBP [15 species], and RAG1 [11 species]) analyzed via maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. The new genus and species exhibit an allopatric distribution relative to other Ichthyomyini and are distinguished by the following combination of traits: dull slate-gray dorsal fur, lighter ventrally without contrast to the dorsum; incomplete philtrum; vestigial pinna concealed within head fur; long, broad hindfeet with a well-developed fringe of stiff hairs and brown soles; laterally compressed tail exceeding head-body length; type 1 carotid circulation pattern; absence of the orbicular apophysis of the malleus; presence of posteroloph and posterolophid in M1, M2, m1, and m2; unilocular hemiglandular stomach (non-reduced). Full article

Background/Objectives: Acne vulgaris is a chronic skin infection characterized by high sebum secretion, keratosis around hair follicles, inflammation, and imbalance in androgen levels. Acne vulgaris causes permanent scars or skin pigmentation in cases of improper treatment. Oral or topical isotretinoin, contraceptives, and antibiotics are used to treat acne. Minocycline is one of the widely used tetracyclines for this purpose; it inhibits the synthesis of proteins in bacterial ribosomes. Commonly, minocycline is prescribed daily for several months for acne vulgaris. Systemic minocycline is highly distributed into body fluids, and it is associated with several side effects and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, minocycline is highly metabolized in the liver, leading to reduced bioavailability upon systemic delivery. This study aims to develop and characterize minocycline nanocrystals for targeted skin delivery and evaluate their antimicrobial efficacy in treating acne vulgaris. Methods: Minocycline nanocrystals were synthesized using milling or solvent evaporation techniques. Nanocrystals were characterized in terms of particle size, particle distribution index (PDI), zeta potential, and morphology. The antibacterial efficacy against Propionibacterium acne, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis was evaluated using a minimum inhibitory concentration assay (MIC) and agar well diffusion test in comparison to coarse minocycline. Results: Minocycline nanocrystals had a particle size of 147.4 ± 7.8 nm and 0.27 ± 0.017 of PDI. The nanocrystals exhibited a loading efficiency of 86.19 ± 16.7%. Antimicrobial testing showed no significant difference in activity between minocycline and its nanoparticle formulation. In terms of skin deposition, the nanocrystals were able to deliver minocycline topically to rat skin significantly more than free minocycline. The nanocrystal solution deposited 554.56 ± 24.13 μg of minocycline into rat skin, whereas free minocycline solution deposited 373.99 ± 23.32 μg. Conclusions: Minocycline nanocrystals represent a promising strategy for targeted skin delivery in the treatment of acne vulgaris, potentially reducing systemic side effects and antibiotic resistance and improving patient outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Obesity is a risk factor for several diseases; however, less has been researched about how diet-induced obesity may affect the auditory system. In this sense, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of diet-induced obesity on the functionality and integrity of the outer hair cells, a key component of the organ of Corti, inside the cochlea. Furthermore, we hypothesized that adipose tissue (AT) status is associated with impaired outer hair cell auditory amplification in young C57BL/6 mice, contributing to increased vulnerability to hearing damage. Methods: Weaning male C57BL/6J mice (7 weeks old) weighing 22–23 g were divided into two diet groups: (i) a control diet or (ii) a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 or 16 weeks. Metabolic parameters (body and AT weight, glucose tolerance test), AT dysfunction markers (AT remodeling, adipocyte size, crown-like structures), and outer hair cell function (distortion products otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) threshold and amplitudes) and integrity (hair cells cell count) were evaluated. Results: We observed that mice fed an HFD for 16 weeks showed a higher DPOAE threshold against stimuli at 16 KHz and a lower count of outer hair cells in the medial section of the cochlea. These results demonstrate a correlation between body and AT weight specifically at 16 weeks of treatment, the time point at which we observed a marked AT dysfunction. Conclusions: Taken together, our results suggest that obese mice with AT dysfunction have an altered auditory efferent system, characterized by a higher DPOAE threshold and a lower outer hair cell count in the medial section, which may impact signal transduction. Full article

Skin is composed of three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. It is enriched with skin appendages, including hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands, which play essential roles in regulating fluid exchange, controlling body temperature, and providing protection against pathogens. Currently, skin regeneration treatments rely on transplantations. However, this approach has several disadvantages, including hemostasis at the recipient site, limitations in donor area closure, increased graft contraction, and hypertrophic scarring. Recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technologies have enabled the fabrication of structures that closely mimic native tissues, with the aim of enhancing tissue regeneration. Bioprinting offers several advantages, such as high reproducibility, precision, and the ability to create complex geometries. The most promising bioinks combine excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, with mechanical and rheological stability. This review highlights the most recent and innovative studies on 3D-printed bioinks in the field of skin tissue engineering. In particular, considering the growing interest in the regenerative potential of exosomes, we discuss cutting-edge research involving exosome-loaded bioinks and their potential to support skin regeneration and repair. Full article

Forensic genetics has experienced remarkable advancements over the past decades, evolving from the analysis of a limited number of DNA segments to comprehensive genome-wide investigations. This progression has significantly improved the ability to establish genetic profiles under diverse conditions and scenarios. Beyond individual identification, forensic genetics now enables the inference of physical traits (e.g., eye, hair, and skin color, as well as body composition), biogeographic ancestry, lifestyle habits such as alcohol and tobacco use, and even the transfer of genital microbiomes post-coitus, among other characteristics. Emerging trends point to a future shaped by the integration of cutting-edge technologies, including CRISPR-Cas systems, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, which promise to further revolutionize the field. This review provides a thorough exploration of forensic genetics, tracing its evolution from its foundational methods (past) to its diverse modern applications (present) and offering insights into its potential future directions. Full article

Differences in skin and hair phenotypes between the scapular and ventral regions of yaks (Bos grunniens) are obvious and become more prominent with age. However, the genetic mechanism that causes differences in yak skin at different ages has not been reported. In this study, we investigated the transcriptomic profile of yak skin across different ages (0.5 years, 2.5 years, and 4.5 years) and body sites (scapular and ventral regions). Differential gene expression analysis was initially conducted to explore the transcriptomic differences in skin at different ages and different body sites. Subsequently, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was employed to analyze the transcriptomic data comprehensively. The results showed that, among all comparison groups, the Y2.5_S vs. Y2.5_V group (regional comparison) exhibited the highest number of DEGs, with 491 genes (179 upregulated and 312 downregulated), followed by the Y2.5_V vs. Y0.5_V group (age comparison), which had 370 DEGs (103 upregulated and 267 downregulated). DEGs such as IGF2BP3, ADCY8, FOSL1, and S100A8 were found in all comparison groups of different ages, and multiple members of the HOX gene family including HOXC10, HOXA9, HOXA6, HOXB9, and HOXB6 were differentially expressed in comparison groups at different sites. Functional enrichment analysis showed that there were more obvious differences in immune function between different ages of skin and more obvious differences in endocrine function between different parts of skin. WGCNA revealed that genes related with immunity such as GLYATL2, ACSL5, and SPDEF were the core genes of the co-expression module associated with the scapula region, and multiple genes related to hair follicle development such as FOXN1, OVOL1, DLX3, HOXC13, and TCHH were found to be the hub genes of the co-expression module associated with the ventral region. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the transcriptomic complexity of yak skin across different ages and body sites. The differential gene expression patterns and co-expression network modules identified in this study lay the foundation for further research on skin biology and adaptation mechanisms in yaks. Full article

Health and welfare are fundamental to goat production; however, their impact on milk yield in goats reared under different farming systems remains insufficiently studied. The objective was to examine the frequency of various health issues in dairy goats reared under two different farming systems and to assess their effects on daily milk yield (DMY). A total of 286 Skopelos goats from an intensive (N_A = 153) and an extensive (N_B = 133) farm, all with the same genetic background, were prospectively monitored for two consecutive lactation periods. Each goat was clinically examined for animal-based health indicators every 50 days, while individual DMY was also recorded. Morbidity frequency measures (cumulative incidence, point, and period prevalence) were calculated for each one of the studied health issues, and mixed linear regression models were developed to assess the effect of each one of the studied health issues on DMY. The results indicated that overgrown hooves were more common in intensively reared goats, while anemia and nasal discharge prevailed in extensively reared goats. Udder asymmetry, udder fibrosis, body abscesses, poor hair coat quality, and swollen lymph nodes were common in both farms, albeit more prevalent in extensively reared goats, except for udder asymmetry. Among the studied health issues, lameness (18.5%, p < 0.05), mouth lesions (14.1%, p < 0.05), udder asymmetry (6.6%, p < 0.001), and udder fibrosis (9.5%, p < 0.001), were significantly associated with reductions in DMY. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing herd health management practices in dairy goats based on evidence and farming system requirements. Full article