Search Results (180)

We performed a diagnostic disease investigation on a wild smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) with skin ulcers that was collected from Lake Oahe, South Dakota, following reports from anglers of multiple fish with similar lesions. Gross and histologic lesions of ulcerative dermatitis, myositis, and lymphocytolysis within the spleen and kidneys were consistent with largemouth bass virus (LMBV) infection. LMBV was detected by conventional PCR in samples of a skin ulcer, and the complete genome sequence of the LMBV (99,184 bp) was determined from a virus isolate obtained from a homogenized skin sample. A maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic analysis based on the major capsid protein (MCP) gene alignment supported the LMBV isolate (LMBV-SD-2023) as a member of the species Ranavirus micropterus1, branching within the subclade of LMBV isolates recovered from North American largemouth (Micropterus salmoides) and smallmouth bass. This is the first detection of LMBV in wild smallmouth bass from South Dakota. The ultrastructure of the LMBV isolate exhibited the expected icosahedral shape of virions budding from cellular membranes. Viral nucleic acid in infected cells was visualized via in situ hybridization (ISH) within dermal granulomas, localized predominantly at the margin of epithelioid macrophages and central necrosis. Further sampling is needed to determine the geographic distribution, affected populations, and evolutionary relationship between isolates of LMBV. Full article

A 10-year-old intact female Bichon Frise presented with multiple firm skin nodules on all four limbs. The nodules progressively increased in number and size over seven months. Diagnostic tests included cytology of fine-needle aspirates, histopathology of skin biopsies, radiography, and abdominal ultrasonography. Cytology revealed spindle-shaped mesenchymal cells and extracellular matrix components, and histopathology confirmed ND characterized by mature collagen deposition without evidence of malignancy. Ultrasonography detected multiple kidney cysts bilaterally, although their exact nature (benign or malignant) could not be confirmed histologically. Genetic analysis was performed, revealing no mutation in the traditionally implicated FLCN gene but multiple nonsynonymous mutations in the BRCA2 gene. This case suggests a potential association between BRCA2 gene mutations and the development of ND with renal cystic lesions, broadening the known genetic causes beyond the commonly reported FLCN mutation. Regular genetic screening and close monitoring of dermatological and renal conditions in atypical breeds are recommended. To the best of current knowledge, this is the first case report demonstrating ND and renal cysts associated with BRCA2 mutations in a Bichon Frise. Full article

Background: Serum uric acid (UA) in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients serves as a critical indicator for nutrition and inflammation, showing a U-shaped association with all-cause mortality. Methods: Our study assessed UA’s survival predictive value in 2615 ESKD patients, stratified by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) into groups of <4 (n = 1107) and ≥4 (n = 1508). Results: Cox regression revealed distinct patterns. For ESKD patients with CCI < 4, UA levels > 8.6 mg/dL were a mortality risk factor (HR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.01–2.38) compared to 7.1–7.7 mg/dL. Conversely, in patients with CCI ≥ 4, UA levels < 5.8 mg/dL were a mortality risk factor (HR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.20–1.95) compared to >8.6 mg/dL. Conclusions: Higher serum UA in ESKD patients with high comorbidities (CCI ≥ 4) is not a risk factor. Low UA should be prevented across all ESKD patients. A personalized approach using CCI and corresponding serum UA levels offers a key reference for managing UA in hemodialysis patients. Full article

Phase-separated membraneless biomolecular condensates in the cytoplasm and nucleus are now recognized to play a major role in modulating diverse functions in mammalian cells, and contribute to cancer pathogenesis through dysregulated function of condensates of transcription factors such as STAT3 and fusion oncoproteins. Oral cancer, the sixth most prevalent malignancy worldwide, in the absence of overt causes such as tobacco or alcohol, most frequently occurs in a U-shaped zone (floor of mouth, side of tongue, anterior fauces and retromolar region) reflecting the path of liquid transit through the mouth. The cellular basis for this “high-risk” zone and the biochemical mechanisms used by oral cells to combat repetitive tonicity and temperature stresses are incompletely understood. We had previously observed that at 37 °C, in OECM1 oral carcinoma cells, cytoplasmic condensates of antiviral human GFP-MxA GTPase disassembled within 1–2 min of exposure of cells to saliva-like one-third hypotonicity, and underwent “spontaneous” reassembly in the next 5–7 min. Moreover, hypotonic beverages (water, tea, coffee), investigated at 37 °C, triggered this condensate cycling. In the present studies we investigated whether this process was temperature sensitive, representative of cold vs. warm drinks. We observed a slowing of this cycle at 5 °C, and speeding up at 50 °C. The involvement in this disassembly/reassembly process of WNK-SPAK/OSR1 serine-threonine kinase pathway, best studied for regulation of water and Na, K and Cl influx and efflux in kidney tubule cells, was evaluated by us in oral cells using pathway inhibitors WNK463, WNK-IN-11 and closantel. The pan-WNK inhibitor WNK463 inhibited hypotonicity-driven condensate disassembly, while the SPAK/OSR1 inhibitor closantel markedly slowed reassembly. Unexpectedly, the WNK1-selective inhibitor (WNK-IN-11), triggered a dramatic and rapid (within 1 h) spheroid to fibril transition of GFP-MxA condensates in live cells, but without affecting MxA antiviral function. The new data suggest a novel hypothesis for the anatomic localization of oral cancer in the U-shaped “high-risk” zone in the mouth: dysfunction of biomolecular condensates in oral cells along the beverage transit pathway through the mouth due to repetitive tonicity and temperature stresses that might underlie a prooncogenic progression. Full article

Background: Quality of life (QoL) in oncology patients is shaped by the interplay of biological, psychological and treatment-related factors. While prior studies have addressed the independent effects of treatment toxicity and psychological distress, little is known about the interaction between depressive–anxious disorders, kidney failure and haematological toxicity on QoL among patients with head and neck cancer undergoing chemoradiotherapy. Objective: This study aims to examine the combined effect of haematological toxicity, depressive–anxious disorders and chronic renal disease on the total QLQ-H&N43 score, a validated measure of QoL in patients with head and neck cancer. Methods: A total of 93 patients were included in an observational study. PROCESS macro for SPSS was used to test the three-way interaction between haematological toxicity (X), depressive–anxious disorders (W) and kidney failure (Z) on QoL (Y). Results: The three-way interaction was statistically significant (β = 31.04, p = 0.032), accounting for 18.9% of the variance in QLQ-H&N43 scores (R² = 0.1888). Patients presenting both depressive–anxious disorders and renal comorbidities reported higher QoL scores, indicating poorer quality of life in the presence of severe treatment toxicity. Conclusions: Psychological distress and kidney failure may synergistically exacerbate the negative effects of chemoradiotherapy toxicity on quality of life. These findings underscore the need for integrated care models addressing both psychological vulnerability and medical comorbidities in oncology. Full article

Albumin is the most abundant protein synthesized exclusively by the hepatocytes in the liver. Once secreted into plasma, it helps in the maintenance of osmotic pressure, as well as the exertion of defensive roles such as anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory functions. Dysregulation in the synthesis and clearance of albumin is observed in various hepatic and extra-hepatic diseases. Abnormal levels of albumin could be either a cause or an effect of various pathological ailments, including hepatic, cardiac, renal, neurological, etc. Owing to its long half-life and multiple binding sites in its heart-shaped structure, it interacts with various internal agents, such as hormones, or external substances like drugs, which is why transportation can be one of its many functions. Additionally, albumin’s drug interactions, as well as displacement of albumin–drug binding, could have serious clinical consequences, and careful considerations should be made in determining an appropriate drug regimen to achieve a desired therapeutic outcome with minimal side effects. Moreover, albumin also undergoes several post-translational modifications that can influence its physiological roles, including drug binding and antioxidant functions. Furthermore, it has a complicated role in physiology, where it can help in maintaining plasma oncotic pressure and prevent endothelial cell apoptosis but can have adverse effects on the lungs and kidneys. These adverse effects are mainly attributed to ER stress and inflammasome activation. This narrative review provides an overview of the general biology of albumin and its effects in physiology, with a focus on its beneficial and adverse effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Papillary Fibroelastoma is a benign primary cardiac tumor, commonly located in a valvular position, predominantly on the aortic valve. Case Presentation: We present a 73-year-old male patient with a medical history of chronic lymphatic leukemia, kidney failure, diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea. In a routinely performed echocardiogram an abnormal structure in the left ventricle was found. The patient presented completely asymptomatically at the time of examination. A cardiac magnetic resonance-scan provided further information about the size and localization of the tumor in the left ventricle, which seemed to be attached to a papillary muscle and was about 1.6 cm in diameter. Due to visible scarring of the myocardia, which was identified in the scan, a cardiac catheter examination was performed. A coronary artery disease was detected with a severe stenosis in three vessels. During an elective bypass-operation, the removal of the structure was performed with an approach through the left atrium, passing the mitral valve using a valve sizer for better exposure. The tumor of 1 cm presented macroscopically with an anemone-like shape. The histopathological examination confirmed the intraoperative assumption of a papillary fibroelastoma, found in an aberrant location. Conclusions: Unexpectedly challenging surgical removals of structures in the left ventricle require innovative techniques with available instruments for better exposure. Full article

Urogenital transplantation has emerged as a ground-breaking field with the potential to revolutionize the treatment of end-stage organ failure and congenital or acquired defects of the kidney and urinary bladder. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state, clinical experiences, and experimental progress in kidney and bladder transplantation, with a particular focus on immunological, surgical, and ethical challenges. While kidney transplantation is now a well-established procedure offering improved survival and quality of life for patients with chronic renal failure, bladder transplantation remains in the experimental phase, facing hurdles in vascularization, tissue integration, and functional restoration. Recent advancements in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and immunosuppressive strategies are critically discussed, highlighting their role in shaping the future of urogenital grafts. This review also explores xenotransplantation and bio-artificial organ development as promising frontiers. Continued interdisciplinary research is essential to overcome the current limitations and enable routine clinical application of bladder transplantation while optimizing outcomes in kidney grafts. Full article

Oxalis pes-caprae is one of the most widespread invasive plants in the Mediterranean areas, especially in central and southern Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia. It is an herbaceous species of South African origin, very common in uncultivated areas, in meadows, and at the edges of roads but also in vegetable gardens and fields, where it can become a weed. Its negative impact on the economic sector is significant due to the presence of large quantities of oxalates, which are toxic and dangerous for grazing livestock; the ingestion of high amounts of oxalates causes the accumulation of oxalate crystals, which can lead to kidney failure and anuria. This work represents a descriptive, field-based case report of epidemiological relevance, describing two cases of acute and chronic poisoning by Oxalis pes-caprae found in two different sheep farms in southern Sardinia. In February 2024, the sudden death of about 40 animals was reported in a sheep farm. On another farm, seven animals died (between March and July 2024), while others showed poisoning symptoms such as weight loss, submandibular edema, and a barrel-shaped abdomen. This manuscript aims to highlight the damage caused by poor attention in pasture management and the importance of seasonal risk management; it is necessary to pay attention to the herbaceous species present in pastures, especially in our region, where climatic temperatures no longer respect seasonality and herbaceous species that normally grow in spring are easily found also in the winter months. Full article

Objectives: The diagnostics of chronic kidney disease (CKD) consist of three basic groups of examinations: laboratory tests, radiological imaging and histopathological examinations. However, in the most severe clinical cases, where a fast, undisputed decision is required, histopathological tests are the only suitable option. Unfortunately, such tests require an invasive kidney biopsy, which is not possible in many patients. The aim of this study is to create an algorithm that can categorize CKD patients into active and non-active phases on the basis of MRI texture analysis and compare the results with histopathological examinations. Methods: MRI examinations were performed on healthy volunteers (group 1, N = 14) and CKD patients who also received kidney biopsy. The histopathological examination was used to divide the patients into active phase CKD (group 2, N = 58) and non-active phase CKD (group 3, N = 22). The T2-weighted MRI images were analyzed using a Support Vector Machine (SVM) model created with qMazDa software, which was trained to classify images into the appropriate group of CKD activity. Results: The following evaluation metrics were calculated for the final SVM models corresponding to confusion matrices: for texture analysis—balanced accuracy 81.6%, sensitivity 68.2–92.0%, specificity 82.5–97.5% and precision 62.5–95.8%; for texture and shape analysis—balanced accuracy 87.3%, sensitivity 77.3–100.0%, specificity 87.5–100.0% and precision 65.4–100.0%. Conclusions: Texture analysis of T2-weighted images associated with kidney shape features seems to be reliable method of assessing the state of ongoing CKD. Full article

The human gut microbiome is intricately linked to systemic and organ-specific immune responses and is highly responsive to dietary modulation. As metagenomic techniques enable in-depth study of an ever-growing number of gut microbial species, it has become increasingly feasible to decipher the specific functions of the gut microbiome and how they may be modulated by diet. Diet exerts both supportive and selective pressures on the gut microbiome by regulating a multitude of factors, including energy density, macronutrient and micronutrient content, and circadian rhythm. The microbiome, in turn, contributes to local and systemic immune responses by providing colonization resistance against pathogens, shaping immune cell activity and differentiation, and facilitating the production of bioactive metabolites. Emerging research has strengthened the connections between the gut microbiome and cardiometabolic disorders (e.g., cardiovascular disease, obesity, type-2 diabetes), autoimmune conditions (e.g., type-1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease), respiratory disease, chronic kidney and liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, depressive disorders). Here, we outline ways in which dietary factors impact host response in diseases through alterations of gut microbiome functionality and composition. Consideration of diet-mediated microbial effects within the context of the diseases discussed highlights the potential of microbiome-targeted treatment strategies as alternative or adjunct therapies to improve patient outcomes. Full article

The intensification of human activities in recent years has led to significant overexploitation of Triplophysa strauchii populations, resulting in a decline in the species’ natural stocks. This underscores the need for research and development initiatives aimed at supporting the recovery and sustainable management of the species. Therefore, this study investigated its biological traits and isozyme characteristics in detail. First, throutigations of fish ecology, the age and growth patterns of T. strauchii were examined. The results revealed that the length of the otoliths was greater than the width and that the intermajor groove was indistinct. The age range of the fish was 0–4 years. A correlation between body length and weight revealed that T. strauchii exhibited isometric growth patterns. In terms of growth parameters, the inflection point in age for T. strauchii was t_i = 3.23. Additionally, to analyze the enzymes lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), and esterase (EST) in ten tissues of T. strauchii (liver, muscle, heart, gills, eye, brain, fins, kidneys, gonads, and intestines), vertical plate electrophoresis was performed via polyacrylamide gels. The results of isoenzyme analysis revealed that the LDHA (lactate dehydrogenase A subunit) gene was predominant in all tissues. A maximum of two s-MDH enzyme bands with three m-MDH enzyme bands were detected, with a classic enzyme profile and no gene mutation. The EST enzyme was highly expressed in the liver and kidney and was less polymorphic. In general, T. strauchii exhibited a spindle-like body shape and isometric growth patterns in the Turks River. It exhibited a narrow age range, strong adaptability, and stable genetic traits. This species has high development potential, utilization value and ecological significance. Full article

Genetic predisposition accounts for less than 20% of the global disease burden, highlighting the substantial role of environmental factors in health outcomes. In chronic kidney disease (CKD), a growing global prevalence, understanding the interplay between genes and the environment is crucial. Emerging research in the exposome and genome underscores how environmental exposures interact with genetic variants to influence the development and progression of CKD. The term “exposome” encompasses a variety of factors, including personal behaviors like smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and making specific dietary choices (such as consuming ultra-processed foods, sugar, or fat). It also includes broader determinants such as pesticides, air, water, and soil pollution, nanoplastics, global warming, stressful life events, and socioeconomic status. Research on the exposome significantly increases our understanding of toxicological processes and individual variations in susceptibility to environmental stressors. This narrative review aims to explore the exposome associated with CKD, highlight key environmental exposures in its development, and discuss potential preventive and therapeutic strategies informed by these exposure-related factors. Full article

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a noteworthy global health issue affecting 10% of the world’s populace. It is increasingly linked to environmental exposures; however, the interplay of toxic metals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and essential elements has not been fully elucidated. This cross-sectional study analyzed 5800 out of the 9245 participants from the 2017–2018 NHANES dataset to evaluate the combined effect of PFAS, essential elements, and toxic metals on CKD using logistic regression and advanced environmental mixture models, namely, Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR), quantile g-computation (qgcomp), and Weighted Quantile Sum (WQS) regression. Our results showed cadmium (Cd) emerging as a significant contributor to CKD (OR = 2.16, p = 0.023) from the logistic regression analysis. Mercury (Hg) demonstrated the highest contribution in mixtures (posterior inclusion probability = 0.908) from our BKMR analysis, with a non-linear U-shaped dose–response relationship. Essential elements like selenium (Se) and manganese (Mn) exhibited protective correlations but complex non-linear interactions, moderating toxic metal effects from our qgcomp and WQS regression. Notably, antagonistic interactions between essential elements and some pollutants reduced the overall mixture impact on CKD, showing an overall decreasing joint effect of the combined PFAS, toxic metals, and essential elements on CKD, from the 25th to the 75th quantile. This study highlights the role of environmental co-exposures in CKD risk and highlights the need for advanced statistical and machine learning approaches in studying complex environmental mixture interactions on human health. Full article

Film cooling can continuously cover a layer of low-temperature gas film on the surface of hot-end components, thereby achieving the effect of isolating high-temperature gas, and can achieve a temperature drop of 600 K. As an advanced and efficient cooling technique, film cooling plays a crucial role in the process of turbine power and efficiency increase, with the key factor influencing its cooling performance being the configuration and arrangement of the film holes. This paper summarizes the design and arrangement of film hole configurations and discusses the potential directions for enhancing film cooling performance. Through analysis, the optimization of film cooling performance is mainly approached from two aspects: first, optimizing the hole configuration, which includes the study of shaped holes, enhancing the cooling performance of cylindrical holes using auxiliary structures, and forming a “reverse kidney-shaped vortex” structure by using a single combined film hole; second, optimizing the arrangement of the cooling holes on the turbine surface to achieve a more uniform and efficient distribution of the cooling film. Future development trends are primarily reflected in the following aspects: designing new, easily manufacturable, high-efficiency film hole configurations and further expanding their stable operating range is an important development direction. It is essential to validate the reverse heat transfer method, assess its applicable range, and, when experimental conditions exceed the applicable range, use related theories to correct its predictive performance. This is key to overcoming the bottleneck in film cooling prediction. It is critical to develop a film hole arrangement guideline that is suitable for various types of film holes and components with temperature differences at the thermal end, to fill the gap in future film cooling optimization design technologies. This study aims to provide new ideas for the optimal design of the cooling system and further improve the power and efficiency of gas turbines. Full article