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Search Results (318)

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Keywords = serum biochemical response

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19 pages, 3457 KiB  
Article
Transcriptome Analysis Revealed the Immune and Metabolic Responses of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) Under Acute Salinity Stress
by Leshan Ruan, Baocan Wei, Yanlin Liu, Rongfei Mu, Huang Li and Shina Wei
Fishes 2025, 10(8), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080380 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Freshwater salinization, an escalating global environmental stressor, poses a significant threat to freshwater biodiversity, including fish communities. This study investigates the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus), a species with the highest aquaculture output in China, to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of its [...] Read more.
Freshwater salinization, an escalating global environmental stressor, poses a significant threat to freshwater biodiversity, including fish communities. This study investigates the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus), a species with the highest aquaculture output in China, to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of its physiological adaptations to fluctuating salinity gradients. We used high-throughput mRNA sequencing and differential gene expression profiling to analyze transcriptional dynamics in intestinal and kidney tissues of grass carp exposed to heterogeneous salinity stressors. Concurrent serum biochemical analyses showed salinity stress significantly increased Na+, Cl, and osmolarity, while decreasing lactate and glucose. Salinity stress exerted a profound impact on the global transcriptomic landscape of grass carp. A substantial number of co-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in kidney and intestinal tissues were enriched in immune and metabolic pathways. Specifically, genes associated with antigen processing and presentation (e.g., cd4-1, calr3b) and apoptosis (e.g., caspase17, pik3ca) exhibited upregulated expression, whereas genes involved in gluconeogenesis/glycolysis (e.g., hk2, pck2) were downregulated. KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that metabolic and cellular structural pathways were predominantly enriched in intestinal tissues, while kidney tissues showed preferential enrichment of immune and apoptotic pathways. Rigorous validation of RNA-seq data via qPCR confirmed the robustness and cross-platform consistency of the findings. This study investigated the core transcriptional and physiological mechanisms regulating grass carp’s response to salinity stress, providing a theoretical foundation for research into grass carp’s resistance to salinity stress and the development of salt-tolerant varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adaptation and Response of Fish to Environmental Changes)
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21 pages, 2807 KiB  
Article
Phage Therapy Enhances Survival, Immune Response, and Metabolic Resilience in Pacific White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) Challenged with Vibrio parahaemolyticus
by Chao Zeng, Long Qi, Chao-Li Guan, Yu-Lin Chang, Yu-Yun He, Hong-Zheng Zhao, Chang Wang, Yi-Ran Zhao, Yi-Chen Dong and Guo-Fang Zhong
Fishes 2025, 10(8), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080366 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND), caused by the bacterium Vibrio parahaemolyticus, is a major threat to global shrimp aquaculture. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of phage therapy in Litopenaeus vannamei challenged with AHPND-causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Phage application at [...] Read more.
Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND), caused by the bacterium Vibrio parahaemolyticus, is a major threat to global shrimp aquaculture. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of phage therapy in Litopenaeus vannamei challenged with AHPND-causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Phage application at various concentrations significantly improved shrimp survival, with the 1 ppm group demonstrating the highest survival rate. Enzymatic assays revealed that phage-treated shrimp exhibited enhanced immune enzyme activities, including acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and lysozyme (LZM). In addition, antioxidant defenses such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) significantly improved, accompanied by reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Serum biochemical analyses demonstrated marked improvements in lipid metabolism, particularly reductions in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), alongside higher levels of beneficial high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Transcriptomic analysis identified 2274 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), notably enriched in pathways involving fatty acid metabolism, peroxisome functions, lysosomes, and Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling. Specifically, phage treatment upregulated immune and metabolic regulatory genes, including Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MYD88), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), indicating activation of innate immunity and antioxidant defense pathways. These findings suggest that phage therapy induces protective immunometabolic adaptations beyond its direct antibacterial effects, thereby providing an ecologically sustainable alternative to antibiotics for managing bacterial diseases in shrimp aquaculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Aquaculture and Disease Control)
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21 pages, 7017 KiB  
Article
Chronic Heat Stress Caused Lipid Metabolism Disorder and Tissue Injury in the Liver of Huso dauricus via Oxidative-Stress-Mediated Ferroptosis
by Yining Zhang, Yutao Li, Ruoyu Wang, Sihan Wang, Bo Sun, Dingchen Cao, Zhipeng Sun, Weihua Lv, Bo Ma and Ying Zhang
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080926 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 208
Abstract
High-temperature stress has become an important factor that has restricted the aquaculture industry. Huso dauricus is a high-economic-value fish that has faced the threat of thermal stress. Based on this point, our investigation aimed to explore the detailed mechanism of the negative impacts [...] Read more.
High-temperature stress has become an important factor that has restricted the aquaculture industry. Huso dauricus is a high-economic-value fish that has faced the threat of thermal stress. Based on this point, our investigation aimed to explore the detailed mechanism of the negative impacts of heat stress on the liver metabolism functions in Huso dauricus. In this study, we set one control group (19 °C) and four high-temperature treatment groups (22 °C, 25 °C, 28 °C, 31 °C) with 40 fish in each group for continuous 53-day heat exposure. Histological analysis, biochemical detection, and transcriptome technology were used to explore the effects of heat stress on the liver structure and functions of juvenile Huso dauricus. It suggested heat-stress-induced obvious liver injury and reactive oxygen species accumulation in Huso dauricus with a time/temperature-dependent manner. Serum total protein, transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase activities showed significant changes under heat stress (p < 0.05). In addition, 6433 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified based on the RNA-seq project. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that various DEGs could be mapped to the lipid-metabolism-related terms. KEGG enrichment and immunohistochemistry analysis showed that ferroptosis and FoxO signaling pathways were significantly enriched (p < 0.05). These results demonstrated that thermal stress induced oxidative stress damage in the liver of juvenile Huso dauricus, which triggered lipid metabolism disorder and hepatocyte ferroptosis to disrupt normal liver functions. In conclusion, chronic thermal stress can cause antioxidant capacity imbalance in the liver of Huso dauricus to mediate the ferroptosis process, which would finally disturb the lipid metabolism homeostasis. In further research, it will be necessary to verify the detailed cellular signaling pathways that are involved in the heat-stress-induced liver function disorder response based on the in vitro experiment, while the multi-organ crosswalk mode under the thermal stress status is also essential for understanding the comprehensive mechanism of heat-stress-mediated negative effects on fish species. Full article
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16 pages, 7618 KiB  
Article
Collagen Remodeling of Strattice™ Firm in a Nonhuman Primate Model of Abdominal Wall Repair
by Kelly Bolden, Jared Lombardi, Nimesh Kabaria, Eric Stec and Maryellen Gardocki-Sandor
Bioengineering 2025, 12(8), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12080796 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 330
Abstract
This study characterized collagen remodeling in an electron-beam-sterilized porcine acellular dermal matrix (E-PADM) by evaluating host response kinetics during wound healing. E-PADM (n = 6 lots/time point) was implanted in an abdominal wall bridging defect in nonhuman primates (N = 24). [...] Read more.
This study characterized collagen remodeling in an electron-beam-sterilized porcine acellular dermal matrix (E-PADM) by evaluating host response kinetics during wound healing. E-PADM (n = 6 lots/time point) was implanted in an abdominal wall bridging defect in nonhuman primates (N = 24). Histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical assessments were conducted. Pro-inflammatory tissue cytokines peaked 1 month post-implantation and subsided to baseline by 6 months. E-PADM-specific serum immunoglobulin G antibodies increased by 213-fold from baseline at 1 month, then decreased to <10-fold by 6–9 months. The mean percentage tissue area staining positively for matrix metalloproteinase-1 plateaued at 3 months (40.3 ± 16.9%), then subsided by 6 months (16.3 ± 11.1%); tissue inhibitor matrix metalloproteinase-1 content plateaued at 1 month (39.0 ± 14.3%), then subsided by 9 months (13.0 ± 8.8%). Mean E-PADM thickness (1.7 ± 0.2 mm pre-implant) increased at 3 months (2.9 ± 1.5 mm), then decreased by 9 months (1.9 ± 1.1; equivalent to pre-implant). Histology demonstrated mild inflammation between 1–3 months, then a peak in host tissue deposition, with ≈75%–100% E-PADM collagen turnover, and fibroblast infiltration and neovascularization between 3–6 months. Picrosirius red staining revealed that mature E-PADM collagen was replaced by host-associated neo-collagen by 6 months. E-PADM implantation induced wound healing, which drove dermal E-PADM collagen remodeling to native, functional fascia-like tissue at the implant site. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Innovations in Wound Repair and Regeneration)
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13 pages, 395 KiB  
Article
Stress and Energy Mobilization Responses of Climbing Perch Anabas testudineus During Terrestrial Locomotion
by Efim D. Pavlov, Tran Duc Dien and Ekaterina V. Ganzha
Stresses 2025, 5(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/stresses5030045 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 244
Abstract
The climbing perch, Anabas testudineus, is one of the most widely distributed freshwater amphibious fishes in South and Southeast Asia, exhibiting terrestrial movements. Our experimental study aimed to investigate endocrinological and biochemical changes in the blood of climbing perch associated with their [...] Read more.
The climbing perch, Anabas testudineus, is one of the most widely distributed freshwater amphibious fishes in South and Southeast Asia, exhibiting terrestrial movements. Our experimental study aimed to investigate endocrinological and biochemical changes in the blood of climbing perch associated with their terrestrial movements. To achieve this, the fish were divided into two groups: one group was exposed to aquatic conditions for twenty minutes, while the other group was subjected to terrestrial conditions for the same duration through rapid water level decrease. In terrestrial conditions, the fish predominantly exhibit movements on land, whereas in aquatic environments, they primarily remain immobile or swim. Elevated levels of stress-induced cortisol and glucose after short-term exposure indicate a high-stress response involving both neuroendocrine and metabolic mechanisms. Changes in the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and increased concentrations of triglycerides in the blood serum suggest energy mobilization through aerobic metabolic pathways. Extreme environmental changes did not affect thyroid axis function, including deiodination, thereby maintaining essential physiological activities under new conditions. Additionally, the anaerobic metabolic pathway appears to be minimally utilized at the onset of terrestrial movement, as no significant changes in lactate dehydrogenase concentrations were observed. Overall, the terrestrial movements of the climbing perch are likely predominantly forced and associated with high stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal and Human Stresses)
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15 pages, 1455 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Selected Biochemical Parameters of the Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone System in Repeat Convalescent Plasma Donors in the Context of Long-Term Changes Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection
by Marta Stanek, Dorota Diakowska, Krzysztof Kaliszewski and Anna Leśków
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 4910; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144910 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 289
Abstract
Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection has been associated with long-term health consequences, including dysregulation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). This study aimed to evaluate long-term changes in selected RAAS-related biochemical parameters in repeat convalescent plasma donors, focusing on enzymes and peptides involved in vascular regulation [...] Read more.
Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection has been associated with long-term health consequences, including dysregulation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). This study aimed to evaluate long-term changes in selected RAAS-related biochemical parameters in repeat convalescent plasma donors, focusing on enzymes and peptides involved in vascular regulation and inflammation. Methods: Thirty repeat convalescent plasma donors were enrolled, each providing four serum samples at defined time points post-infection. Samples were collected during Period 1 (≤60 days), Period 2 (61–90 days), Period 3 (91–120 days), and Period 4 (>120 days) after confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The analyzed parameters included angiotensin I (Ang I), angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin 1–7 (Ang 1–7), angiotensin 1–9 (Ang 1–9), ACE, ACE2, ADAM10, and ADAM17. Concentrations were determined using ELISA assays. The control group consisted of pre-pandemic serum samples from healthy individuals. Results: An initial post-infection increase was observed in most parameters, particularly in Period 1. Over time, levels of several markers declined, yet Ang 1–7 and Ang 1–9 remained elevated compared to controls even beyond 120 days. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) were found between ADAM10, ADAM17, and angiotensin peptides, suggesting prolonged RAAS modulation. Metalloproteinases were notably elevated early after infection, potentially contributing to inflammatory and cardiovascular responses. Conclusions: The findings indicate a transient but measurable biochemical response of the RAAS following SARS-CoV-2 infection, with most parameters normalizing after 120 days. However, the sustained elevation of certain markers suggests a potential long-term impact on vascular homeostasis, warranting further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Post-COVID Symptoms and Causes, 3rd Edition)
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9 pages, 825 KiB  
Article
Tamarixetin: A Promising Bioflavonoid Against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury
by Mehmet Ali Telafarlı, Ejder Saylav Bora, Firdes Topal and Oytun Erbaş
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(7), 524; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47070524 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 379
Abstract
Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses cause acute liver failure in most cases of acetaminophen (APAP) overdose. Tamarixetin (Trx), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoid, has not yet been studied in models of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. Trx was tested for its protective effects on [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses cause acute liver failure in most cases of acetaminophen (APAP) overdose. Tamarixetin (Trx), an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoid, has not yet been studied in models of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. Trx was tested for its protective effects on APAP-induced liver injury in rats using biochemical, histopathological, and oxidative stress parameters. Three groups of 30 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to the following groups: control, APAP + Saline, and APAP + Trx (3 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally for 3 days). A single 300 mg/kg intraperitoneal APAP dose caused hepatotoxicity. ALT, MDA, GSH, HSP-70, and thioredoxin were measured in blood and liver tissues. Liver sections were histopathologically examined. APAP depleted hepatic GSH and Trx and increased serum ALT and MDA. Trx treatment significantly reduced ALT (201.2 → 105.1 U/L), MDA (5.5 → 3.4 nmol/mg), and the percentage of histologically damaged hepatocytes (58.5% → 9.5%), while restoring GSH and thioredoxin levels. Notably, HSP-70 expression exceeded that of APAP and control levels, suggesting the modulation of the stress response. The Trx group showed significant hepatoprotection histologically. Trx reduces APAP-induced hepatic damage, likely through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. These findings suggest that Trx may be a natural hepatoprotectant, warranting clinical trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Drugs and Natural Products Discovery)
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17 pages, 1965 KiB  
Article
The Effect of the Antidepressant Citalopram on the Bioconcentration and Biomarker Response of Daphnia magna at Environmentally Relevant Concentrations
by Haohan Yang, Jiacheng Tan, Hanyu Jiang, Hao Xing, Jingnan Zhang, Dexin Kong, Zhuoyu Chen and Linghui Kong
Toxics 2025, 13(7), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13070532 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 363
Abstract
The widespread use and pseudo-persistent occurrence of the antidepressant citalopram (CIT) could pose a potential ecological risk in the aquatic environment. The message about the bioconcentration and sensitive biomarker identification of CIT at the environmentally relevant concentrations is limited. In this study, an [...] Read more.
The widespread use and pseudo-persistent occurrence of the antidepressant citalopram (CIT) could pose a potential ecological risk in the aquatic environment. The message about the bioconcentration and sensitive biomarker identification of CIT at the environmentally relevant concentrations is limited. In this study, an integral evaluation of the phenotypic and biochemical effects of CIT on Daphnia magna (D. magna) was conducted at 0.5 and 10 µg/L. The biomarker screening includes energy metabolism, phototactic behavior, feeding dysfunction, and antioxidant stress responses. The carbohydrate, lipid, and protein content was determined using the assay of anthrone with glucose as standard, thiophosphorate-Vaniline with cholesterol as standard, and Coomassie brilliant blue with serum albumin as standard, respectively. The results showed the bioconcentration equilibrium of CIT reached at the exposure duration of 48 h during the uptake process. At the exposure concentrations of 0.5 and 10 µg/L, the bioconcentration factor of CIT was 571.2 and 67.4 L/kg, respectively. Both protein and lipid content significantly increased at 0.5 µg/L with a 1.78-fold elevation in total energy. Comparatively, the lipid content showed a significant increase at 10 µg/L, while the available total energy rose by 1.25-fold relative to the control group. The phototactic behavior of D. magna exposed to 0.5 µg/L CIT was markedly reduced at 48 h relative to control. In contrast, a significant decrease in phototaxis was observed after 6 h and then a significant increase at 12 h with a continuously obvious decline at 10 µg/L. The filtration rates were increased by 32% compared to controls at 0.5 µg/L, while the stimulatory effects disappeared at 10 µg/L. With regarding to the antioxidant enzyme activities, CIT exposure significantly inhibited the catalase activity both at 0.5 and 10 µg/L, while the glutathione S-transferase activity was obviously induced at 0.5 µg/L and inhibited at 10 µg/L. The expression level of 18s gene was significantly decreased at 10 µg/L. Only the gst gene expression level was significantly increased at 0.5 µg/L, while the 18s and cat gene expression level was obviously inhibited and induced at 10 µg/L. Comprehensively, the responses of the phenotypic traits and energy metabolism of D. magna at various environmental concentrations were sensitive for CIT. This study provided basic data for the risk estimation of CIT in the real freshwater environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Degradation and Toxicity of Environmental Pollutants)
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14 pages, 741 KiB  
Article
Unsupervised Machine Learning in Identification of Septic Shock Phenotypes and Their In-Hospital Outcomes: A Multicenter Cohort Study
by Song Peng Ang, Jia Ee Chia, Eunseuk Lee, Maria Jose Lorenzo-Capps, Madison Laezzo and Jose Iglesias
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4450; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134450 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 505
Abstract
Background: Septic shock is a heterogeneous syndrome with diverse clinical presentations and pathophysiology, yet current management guidelines largely treat it as a homogenous entity. Early risk stratification relies on lactate and different predictive scoring systems, which may not capture the underlying heterogeneity in [...] Read more.
Background: Septic shock is a heterogeneous syndrome with diverse clinical presentations and pathophysiology, yet current management guidelines largely treat it as a homogenous entity. Early risk stratification relies on lactate and different predictive scoring systems, which may not capture the underlying heterogeneity in host responses. Aim: To identify discrete subphenotypes of septic shock using admission demographics and laboratory parameters, and to evaluate their relationship with in-hospital outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective multicenter cohort study of 10,462 adult patients with ICD-10-defined septic shock admitted to intensive care units between 2014 and 2015. We used Two-Step Cluster Analysis using log-likelihood distance and the Bayesian Information Criterion to identify two distinct phenotypes. We compared clusters on baseline characteristics, in-hospital outcomes including mortality, days on mechanical ventilation, vasopressor use, acute kidney injury (AKI), AKI requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT), and ICU and hospital lengths of stay. Results: We identified two clusters (Cluster 1, n = 5355 and Cluster 2, n = 5107) in our study. Cluster 1 showed greater biochemical severity at presentation, including higher median lactate (2.40 vs. 2.20 mmol L−1; p < 0.001), serum creatinine (1.39 vs. 1.20 mg dL−1; p < 0.001), blood urea nitrogen (28 vs. 25 mg dL−1; p < 0.001), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (11.12 vs. 10.38; p < 0.001), and a higher mean SOFA score (7.05 ± 3.85 vs. 6.76 ± 3.87; p < 0.001). Despite this, Cluster 1 required mechanical ventilation more frequently (46.1% vs. 42.2%; p < 0.001) and had a higher incidence of AKI (58.1% vs. 55.6%; p = 0.009), including more stage 3 AKI (17.2% vs. 15.2%; p < 0.001) and dialysis (6.6% vs. 5.2%; p = 0.005), yet experienced similar in-hospital mortality (15.4% vs. 15.8%; p = 0.615) and comparable ICU (2.18 vs. 2.26 days; p = 0.254) and hospital lengths of stay (6.63 vs. 6.80 days; p = 0.251). Conclusions: Two septic shock phenotypes were identified, one with marked early organ dysfunction (Cluster 1) and another with milder initial derangements (Cluster 2), yet both showed convergent short-term mortality and lengths of stay despite divergent support needs. These results challenge reliance on single-parameter severity markers and underscore the need for phenotype-guided risk stratification and personalized management strategies in septic shock. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care)
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27 pages, 1284 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Potential Genes, Acute Phase Proteins and Hormonal Profiles Associated with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Isolation from Pneumonic Sheep
by Hanan M. Alharbi, Eman A. Noaman, Ahmed El-Sayed, Mohamed T. Ragab, Amani Hafez, Attia Eissa, Ahmed Ateya, Khairiah M. Alwutayd, Manal A. Babaker and Asmaa Darwish
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(6), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12060584 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1698
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant bacterial pathogen responsible for a wide range of diseases in both humans and animals. This study aimed to investigate nucleotide sequence variations, gene expression patterns, and serum biomarkers, including acute phase proteins (APPs), hormonal fluctuations, and iron profile [...] Read more.
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant bacterial pathogen responsible for a wide range of diseases in both humans and animals. This study aimed to investigate nucleotide sequence variations, gene expression patterns, and serum biomarkers, including acute phase proteins (APPs), hormonal fluctuations, and iron profile parameters in sheep affected by pneumonia. Additionally, the study focused on the isolation and characterization of S. aureus from pneumonic sheep, with particular emphasis on the prevalence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains. Blood samples were collected from both healthy and pneumonic sheep for gene expression and biochemical analyses, while nasal swabs from pneumonic sheep were used for bacterial isolation and identification. Out of 100 nasal swabs analyzed, 44% tested positive for Staphylococcus spp., and 61.4% of these were confirmed as S. aureus by PCR. The mecA gene, a key marker of methicillin resistance, was identified in 17 isolates (38.6% of the S. aureus-positive samples). MRSA isolates showed complete resistance to amoxicillin, cloxacillin, and erythromycin, and high resistance to penicillin, amoxicillin, and tetracycline; however, all MRSA strains remained fully susceptible to vancomycin. Gene expression analysis revealed that TLR2, CLEC4E, PTX3, CXCL8, and IL15RA were significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) in pneumonic ewes, while SOCS3 expression was markedly downregulated. Sequence analysis of immune-related genes revealed notable nucleotide differences between healthy and affected animals. Furthermore, the pneumonic group exhibited significantly elevated levels of APPs, cortisol, and growth hormone, along with reduced levels of insulin, T3, and T4. These findings underscore the zoonotic risk posed by MRSA and emphasize the need for robust surveillance and antibiotic stewardship to control its spread. The study also highlights the importance of molecular diagnostics in accurately identifying MRSA and elucidating resistance mechanisms, thereby facilitating targeted treatment and informed management strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Internal Medicine)
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13 pages, 960 KiB  
Article
Immunological and Virological Responses in Patients with Monoinfection and Coinfection with Hepatitis B and C Viruses in the Brazilian Amazon
by Joseane R. Silva, Regiane M. A. Sampaio, Patrícia F. Nunes, Vanessa S. Guimarães, Camila Carla da Silva Costa, Evelen da Cruz Coelho, Micheline Vale de Souza, Luana Wanessa Cruz Almeida, Hellen T. Fuzii, Aldemir Branco Oliveira Filho and Luisa C. Martins
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(6), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10060166 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 824
Abstract
Infections with the Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) viruses share some transmission routes, which is why coinfection with these viruses becomes common, especially in endemic areas. This study evaluated the immunological response profile, viral load, and liver damage in groups monoinfected [...] Read more.
Infections with the Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) viruses share some transmission routes, which is why coinfection with these viruses becomes common, especially in endemic areas. This study evaluated the immunological response profile, viral load, and liver damage in groups monoinfected with HBV or HCV and in those co-infected with HBV/HCV. The groups were composed of 22 patients monoinfected by HCV, 22 patients monoinfected by HBV, and 34 co-infected by HBV/HCV, according to serological markers and molecular biology tests. The study was carried out from December 2017 to October 2019. Virus detection employed enzyme immunoassay, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and real-time PCR, while liver function and fibrosis were assessed using biochemical tests and Fibroscan. To research the immunological profile, cytokines were quantified using the BIO-Plex Pro Human Cytokine. Comparing the groups, both mono- and co-infected patients exhibited a Th1 immune response profile. HCV monoinfection notably showed significantly elevated serum levels of INF-γ (p < 0.01) and TNF-α (p < 0.01). The viral load was significantly higher in the HCV monoinfected group when compared to the other groups. Regarding liver damage, patients with a high level of fibrosis (F4) presented significant levels of cytokines INF-γ (p < 0.001), IL-17 (p < 0.0001), and TNF-α (p < 0.0001). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
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19 pages, 2747 KiB  
Article
Assessing Thermal Stress in Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus): Oxidative Stress and Biochemical, Hematological, Hormonal, and Operculum Responses Within Survival Temperature Range
by Kanokporn Saenphet, Supap Saenphet, Nathamon Tanasrivaroottanun, Phanit Srisuttha, Wikit Phinrub, Dutrudi Panprommin and Paiboon Panase
Fishes 2025, 10(6), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10060287 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 464
Abstract
This study investigates the biochemical and physiological responses of the economically important fish Barbonymus gonionotus to acute temperature fluctuations. Focusing on malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum and visceral organs, serum biochemical indices, hematological parameters, cortisol levels, and operculum movement, this research assessed the [...] Read more.
This study investigates the biochemical and physiological responses of the economically important fish Barbonymus gonionotus to acute temperature fluctuations. Focusing on malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum and visceral organs, serum biochemical indices, hematological parameters, cortisol levels, and operculum movement, this research assessed the impacts of thermal stress. Experimental conditions involved two thermal regimes: heat shock at 25–29 °C and 25–37 °C; as well as cold shock at 25–21 °C and 25–13 °C sustained over 24 (D1), 48 (D2), and 72 (D3) h. Serum MDA levels increased significantly. Notably, MDA in the gills, brain, and liver fluctuated under cold stress, particularly at 13 °C. Serum parameters showed significant alterations except for AST, total protein, and cholesterol, which remained unaffected by heat shock. Red blood cell (RBC) counts dropped to their lowest at 13 °C, while white blood cell (WBC) counts diminished significantly when temperatures dropped to 21 °C and then stabilized. Cortisol surged with temperature changes, peaking at 13 °C and 29 °C for cold and heat shock, respectively. Operculum movement was inversely affected by thermal changes, decreasing with cold and increasing with heat. These findings underscore the sensitivity of silver barb to thermal extremes, providing insights for optimized aquaculture management and enhanced resilience to environmental stressors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Biochemistry)
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20 pages, 830 KiB  
Article
Alterations in Adipokine Levels Are Associated with Human Perinatal Anxiety and Depression
by Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo, Mónica Flores-Ramos, Ismael Mancilla-Herrera, Fausto Manuel Cruz-Coronel, Blanca Farfan-Labonne, Laura Elena Jiménez-Aquino, María del Pilar Meza-Rodríguez, Joselin Hernández-Ruiz and Philippe Leff-Gelman
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(12), 4102; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14124102 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 582
Abstract
Background: Adipokines secreted by the adipose tissue and placenta play a critical role in regulating metabolic functions that are essential for fetoplacental development and embryonic growth. While adipokines are known to impact a wide range of physiological and pathological conditions, their role in [...] Read more.
Background: Adipokines secreted by the adipose tissue and placenta play a critical role in regulating metabolic functions that are essential for fetoplacental development and embryonic growth. While adipokines are known to impact a wide range of physiological and pathological conditions, their role in affective disorders during pregnancy remains underexplored. In this study, we aimed to assess the serum levels of distinct adipokines and examine their association with anxiety and comorbid depression in pregnant women. Methods: Third-trimester pregnant women with severe anxiety (ANX, n = 45) and anxiety plus depressive symptoms (ANX + DEP, n = 61) were enrolled in the study, along with healthy control subjects (CTRL, n = 33). Participants were classified using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). Serum levels of adiponectin, adipsin, leptin, and resistin were quantified by flow cytometry-based immunoassay. Clinical, biochemical, and demographic parameters were analyzed using ANOVA with a post hoc Tukey test. Pearson bivariate and partial correlations were performed to assess associations between variables. Results: Adipokine serum levels were significantly higher in the symptomatic groups (ANX, ANX + DEP) than in the CTRL group (p < 0.001). Adiponectin, leptin, and resistin levels positively correlated with anxiety symptoms (HARS, p < 0.01). Furthermore, resistin levels showed a strong association with depressive symptoms (HDRS, p = 0.001) in the ANX + DEP group, after adjusting all parameters by clinical confounders. Conclusions: Our findings revealed that both pro- and anti-inflammatory adipokine levels are elevated in women with affective symptoms during late pregnancy. Pro-inflammatory properties of leptin and resistin may contribute to the severity of anxiety symptoms. Notably, resistin emerges as a key adipokine associated with the expression of depressive symptoms. In addition, adiponectin, acting as an anti-inflammatory mediator, may counteract the inflammatory responses induced by leptin and resistin. These results provide new insights into the role of specific adipocytokine in women with affective disorders during late pregnancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health)
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31 pages, 7685 KiB  
Article
Fish Health Enhancement and Intestinal Microbiota Benefits of Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer Bloch, 1790) on Dietary Sea Lettuce (Ulva rigida C. Agardh, 1823) Extract Supplementation
by Nawanith Klongklaew, Sanikan Tansutaphanit, Pornphimon Tiewpair, Wararut Buncharoen, Jitraporn Phaksopa, Prapansak Srisapoome and Anurak Uchuwittayakul
Animals 2025, 15(12), 1714; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15121714 - 10 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 617
Abstract
This study investigates the health benefits of supplementing Asian seabass diets with hot water crude extract from the sea lettuce Ulva rigida (Ur-HWCE). The extract’s proximate composition consists of 57.63% carbohydrates, 6.75% protein, 31.96% ash, and 6.01% sulfate polysaccharides, as confirmed [...] Read more.
This study investigates the health benefits of supplementing Asian seabass diets with hot water crude extract from the sea lettuce Ulva rigida (Ur-HWCE). The extract’s proximate composition consists of 57.63% carbohydrates, 6.75% protein, 31.96% ash, and 6.01% sulfate polysaccharides, as confirmed by FTIR spectrum analysis. It also exhibits significant antioxidant properties, including total antioxidants, ABTS, DPPH, and reducing power. The study involved four groups fed Ur-HWCE at 0.5, 1.0, and 5 g/kg compared to a control group, with feed prepared daily and given twice at 5% of body weight for 4 weeks. Ur-HWCE supplementation did not negatively impact growth performance. It significantly upregulated insulin-like growth factor 1 (igf1) in the brain and liver, enhancing growth processes. Ur-HWCE reduced oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA). Enhanced immune responses were observed, including increased bactericidal activity, serum IgM levels, and the upregulation of immune-related genes (dcs, c3, ighm, lyz, il8, il10). Gut microbiota analyses showed increased beneficial aerobic and natural probiotic Bacillus spp., particularly Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, enhancing gut health by reducing pathogenic bacteria. Blood biochemical parameters remained stable, and no histopathological alterations were found in the liver and intestine tissues, confirming the supplement’s safety. Fish fed with Ur-HWCE showed significantly higher survival rates and relative percent survival (RPS) against Vibrio vulnificus AAHM-VV2312 compared to the control group, demonstrating improved disease resistance. The study concludes that Ur-HWCE is a promising dietary supplement for enhancing the health, growth, and disease resistance of Asian seabass, supporting its potential in sustainable aquaculture practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Aquatic Animal Health Through Feed Additives)
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16 pages, 1223 KiB  
Article
Oxidative Stress and Risk Factors in Adult Patients with Bronchial Asthma: A Clinical Analysis of Representative Biomarkers
by Oana-Elena Melinte, Emanuel Ioan Stavarache, Mona Elisabeta Dobrin, Andrei Tudor Cernomaz, Ionel-Bogdan Cioroiu, Daniela Robu Popa, Ionela-Alina Grosu-Creanga, Andreea Zabara Antal and Antigona Carmen Trofor
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 4007; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14114007 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 770
Abstract
Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease in which oxidative stress and antioxidant imbalance play a critical role in disease progression and therapeutic response. This study aimed to evaluate oxidative stress and antioxidant status in relation to asthma control levels. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease in which oxidative stress and antioxidant imbalance play a critical role in disease progression and therapeutic response. This study aimed to evaluate oxidative stress and antioxidant status in relation to asthma control levels. Methods: A total of 106 patients admitted to the Clinical Hospital of Pulmonary Diseases, Iași, between March and May 2024 were included in this study. Patients were classified into three groups based on asthma control: well-controlled (AB-TCG), partially controlled (AB-PCG), and uncontrolled asthma (AB-UCG). Demographic, biochemical, and hematological parameters were assessed, with attention to oxidative stress markers and antioxidant defenses. Results: The study population was predominantly female (75%), with a mean age ranging from 50.75 to 64.38 years, and the majority residing in rural areas (73–75%). The AB-UCG group showed significantly elevated inflammatory markers, including a white blood cell count of 9.33 × 103/µL (p = 0.005) and eosinophil percentage of 4.20% (p = 0.03), compared with the other groups. This group also exhibited an unfavorable lipid profile, with increased total cholesterol (207.40 mg/dL) and triglyceride levels (157.21 mg/dL). Oxidative stress was notably higher in the AB-UCG group, as indicated by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (2.86 mmol/L) versus 2.35 mmol/L in the AB-PCG group (p < 0.005), along with decreased serum uric acid (4.64 mg/dL) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels (275.41 µmol/L), leading to a lower GSH/GSSG ratio. Environmental exposures, including tobacco smoke and occupational chemicals, were associated with exacerbated oxidative imbalance. Conclusions: The findings highlight the critical involvement of oxidative stress and compromised antioxidant defenses in poorly controlled asthma. Biomarkers such as MDA, white blood cell count, eosinophil percentage, and the GSH/GSSG ratio may act as valuable tools for personalized asthma management and therapeutic monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Asthma: 2nd Edition)
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