C60 Fullerene Reduces the Level of Liver Damage in Chronic Alcohol Intoxication of Rats.

The liver is the main organ responsible for the metabolism of ethanol, which suffers significantly as a result of tissue damage due to oxidative stress. It is known that C60 fullerenes are able to efficiently capture and inactivate reactive oxygen species in in vivo and in vitro systems. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine whether water-soluble C60 fullerene reduces the level of pathological process development in the liver of rats induced by chronic alcohol intoxication for 3, 6, and 9 months, depending on the daily dose (oral administration; 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg) of C60 fullerene throughout the experiment. In this context, the morphology of the C60 fullerene nanoparticles in aqueous solution was studied using atomic force microscopy. Such biochemical parameters of experimental animal blood as ALT (alanine aminotransferase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) and ALP (alkaline phosphatase) enzyme activities, CDT (carbohydrate-deficient transferrin) level, values of pro-antioxidant balance indicators (concentrations of H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) and GSH (reduced glutathione), activities of CAT (catalase), SOD (superoxide dismutase) and GPx (selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase)), and pathohistological and morphometric features of liver damage were analyzed. The most significant positive change in the studied biochemical parameters (up to 29 ± 2% relative to the control), as markers of liver damage, was recorded at the combined administration of alcohol (40% ethanol in drinking water) and water-soluble C60 fullerenes in the optimal dose of 1 mg/kg, which was confirmed by small histopathological changes in the liver of rats. The obtained results prove the prospective use of C60 fullerenes as powerful antioxidants for the mitigation of pathological conditions of the liver arising under prolonged alcohol intoxication.

Deciphering the therapeutic potential of trimetazidine in rheumatoid arthritis via targeting mi-RNA128a, TLR4 signaling pathway, and adenosine-induced FADD-microvesicular shedding: In vivo and in silico study.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a debilitating autoimmune condition characterized by chronic synovitis, joint damage, and inflammation, leading to impaired joint functionality. Existing RA treatments, although effective to some extent, are not without side effects, prompting a search for more potent therapies. Recent research has revealed the critical role of FAS-associated death domain protein (FADD) microvesicular shedding in RA pathogenesis, expanding its scope beyond apoptosis to include inflammatory and immune pathways. This study aimed to investigate the intricate relationship between mi-RNA 128a, autoimmune and inflammatory pathways, and adenosine levels in modulating FADD expression and microvesicular shedding in a Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) induced RA rat model and further explore the antirheumatoid potency of trimetazidine (TMZ). The FCA treated model exhibited significantly elevated levels of serum fibrogenic, inflammatory, immunological and rheumatological diagnostic markers, confirming successful RA induction. Our results revealed that the FCA-induced RA model showed a significant reduction in the expression of FADD in paw tissue and increased microvesicular FADD shedding in synovial fluid, which was attributed to the significant increase in the expression of the epigenetic miRNA 128a gene in addition to the downregulation of adenosine levels. These findings were further supported by the significant activation of the TLR4/MYD88 pathway and its downstream inflammatory IkB/NFB markers. Interestingly, TMZ administration significantly improved, with a potency similar to methotrexate (MTX), the deterioration effect of FCA treatment, as evidenced by a significant attenuation of fibrogenic, inflammatory, immunological, and rheumatological markers. Our investigations indicated that TMZ uniquely acted by targeting epigenetic miRNA128a expression and elevating adenosine levels in paw tissue, leading to increased expression of FADD of paw tissue and mitigated FADD microvesicular shedding in synovial fluid. Furthermore, the group treated with TMZ showed significant downregulation of TLR4/MYD88 and their downstream TRAF6, IRAK and NF-kB. Together, our study unveils the significant potential of TMZ as an antirheumatoid candidate, offering anti-inflammatory effects through various mechanisms, including modulation of the FADD-epigenetic regulator mi-RNA 128a, adenosine levels, and the TLR4 signaling pathway in joint tissue, but also attenuation of FADD microvesicular shedding in synovial fluid. These findings further highlight the synergistic administration of TMZ and MTX as a potential approach to reduce adverse effects of MTX while improving therapeutic efficacy.

Aquatic assessment of the chelating ability of Silica-stabilized magnetite nanocomposite to lead nitrate toxicity with emphasis to their impact on hepatorenal, oxidative stress, genotoxicity, histopathological, and bioaccumulation parameters in Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, anthropogenic activities have released heavy metals and polluted the aquatic environment. This study investigated the ability of the silica-stabilized magnetite (Si-M) nanocomposite materials to dispose of lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) toxicity in Nile tilapia and African catfish. RESULTS: Preliminary toxicity tests were conducted and determined the median lethal concentration (LC50) of lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2) to Nile tilapia and African catfish to be 5 mg/l. The sublethal concentration, equivalent to 1/20 of the 96-hour LC50 Pb(NO3)2, was selected for our experiment. Fish of each species were divided into four duplicated groups. The first group served as the control negative group, while the second group (Pb group) was exposed to 0.25 mg/l Pb(NO3)2 (1/20 of the 96-hour LC50). The third group (Si-MNPs) was exposed to silica-stabilized magnetite nanoparticles at a concentration of 1 mg/l, and the fourth group (Pb + Si-MNPs) was exposed simultaneously to Pb(NO3)2 and Si-MNPs at the same concentrations as the second and third groups. Throughout the experimental period, no mortalities or abnormal clinical observations were recorded in any of the treated groups, except for melanosis and abnormal nervous behavior observed in some fish in the Pb group. After three weeks of sublethal exposure, we analyzed hepatorenal indices, oxidative stress parameters, and genotoxicity. Values of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), urea, and creatinine were significantly higher in the Pb-intoxicated groups compared to the control and Pb + Si-MNPs groups in both fish species. Oxidative stress parameters showed a significant decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration, along with a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl content (PCC) concentrations, as well as DNA fragmentation percentage in the Pb group. However, these values were nearly restored to control levels in the Pb + Si-MNPs groups. High lead accumulation was observed in the liver and gills of the Pb group, with the least accumulation in the muscles of tilapia and catfish in the Pb + Si-MNPs group. Histopathological analysis of tissue samples from Pb-exposed groups of tilapia and catfish revealed brain vacuolation, gill fusion, hyperplasia, and marked hepatocellular and renal necrosis, contrasting with Pb + Si-MNP group, which appeared to have an apparently normal tissue structure. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that Si-MNPs are safe and effective aqueous additives in reducing the toxic effects of Pb (NO3)2 on fish tissue through the lead-chelating ability of Si-MNPs in water before being absorbed by fish.

Laparoscopic excision of a large retroperitoneal cyst: Case report and literature review.

Retroperitoneal cysts, a rare surgical phenomenon, present diagnostic challenges due to their typically asymptomatic nature. A 62-year-old male presented with a 4-month history of abdominal distension and increased burping. Upon clinical examination, a soft, distended, nontender abdomen with a palpable mass extending from the epigastric region to 3 cm below the umbilicus was revealed. Imaging revealed a 14.6 cm × 15.8 cm × 16.4 cm nonenhancing retroperitoneal lesion, compressing the right ureter and causing mild right hydronephrosis. Multiple gall bladder calculi, an umbilical hernia, and lipomatous lesions associated with adrenal glands were also discovered. Laparoscopic retroperitoneal cystectomy, cholecystectomy, and umbilical hernia repair were performed. Intraoperatively, 150 ml ascitic fluid and 1200 ml cystic fluid were found. This case highlights the intricate clinical presentation of a retroperitoneal cyst, emphasizing the need for surgical exploration. Successful laparoscopic management contributes to the evolving understanding of optimal treatment strategies.

Thickness-Resolved Electrochemiluminescence Microscopy of Extracellular Matrix at Tumor Tissues for Rapid Cancer Diagnosis.

The traditional recognition of extracellular matrix (ECM) at tissue sections relies on the time-consuming immunofluorescence that could not meet the demand of rapid diagnosis. Herein, we introduce a thickness-resolved electrochemiluminescence (ECL) microscopy to image thin-layer ECM at tissue sections for fast histopathological analysis. The unique surface-confined ECL mechanism enables to unveil the diversity and complexity of multiple tissue structures with varying thicknesses. Notably, the short lifetimes and the limited diffusion of electrogenerated coreactant radicals combined with their chemical reactivity result in a 2-fold increase in ECL intensity on ECM structures compared to the remaining tissue, enabling ECM visualization without specific labeling. The further quantitation of the ECM localization within tissue sections furnishes crucial insights into tumor progression and, more importantly, differentiates carcinoma and paracancerous tissues from patients in less than 30 min. Moreover, the reported electrochemistry-based microscopy is a dynamic approach allowing to investigate the transport, tortuosity, and trafficking properties through the tissues. This thickness-resolved recognition strategy not only opens new avenues for imaging complex samples but also holds promise for expediting tissue pathologic diagnosis, offering a more automated protocol with enhanced quantitative data compared to current intraoperative pathology methods.

In Vivo Antioxidant and Nephroprotective Effects of Ethanolic Extract of Carica papaya Seeds and Its Isolated Flavonoid on Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Wistar Albino Rats.

Background The nephrotoxic side effects of gentamicin, a potent aminoglycoside antibiotic, significantly restrict its clinical use. Identifying compounds that can mitigate this nephrotoxicity is of paramount importance. The research examines how the ethanolic extract of Carica papaya seeds (EECPS) and isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a flavonoid separated from them, protect the kidneys and fight free radicals in gentamicin-treated Wistar albino rats. Methodology A total of 48 mature Wistar albino rats were divided into eight groups, with each group consisting of six rats. The experimental setup included a normal control group receiving oral saline as a negative control, and a standard control group administered gentamicin intraperitoneally (IP) at 100 mg/kg body weight for 13 days to induce nephrotoxicity, followed by oral silymarin at 100 mg/kg body weight as a positive control from days 14 to 21. A toxicant control group was exposed to gentamicin IP without subsequent treatment. Two test groups were given 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg of EECPS orally after being given gentamicin. Three other test groups were given 20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, and 80 mg/kg of ISL orally after being given gentamicin. Serum levels of creatinine, urea, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were used to test renal function. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and reduced glutathione (GSH), which are signs of oxidative stress, were also measured in renal tissues. Results Gentamicin administration markedly increased serum creatinine, urea, and BUN levels, confirming its nephrotoxic effect. Nephroprotection depended on the dose of EECPS and ISL used. It was found that 80 mg/kg of ISL had the most powerful effect, which was not what was thought at first. These treatments effectively reduced MDA and NO levels while enhancing GSH levels, exhibiting their strong antioxidant properties. Notably, the nephroprotective efficacy of these treatments exceeded that of silymarin, a known nephroprotective agent. Histopathological analysis confirmed reduced renal damage and enhanced tissue repair in the treated groups. Conclusions These findings demonstrate how effective EECPS and ISL are at shielding the kidneys from gentamicin-caused damage. They do this by acting as antioxidants and nephroprotectants. Their ability to protect kidney function and fight oxidative stress makes them interesting as possible treatments for gentamicin-related kidney damage. These results advocate for further investigation into the utility of these natural compounds in the management of nephrotoxicity.

Dissecting the Effects of Cephenemyia stimulator on the Olfactory Turbinates and Nasopharynx of Roe Deers (Capreolus capreolus).

Nasopharyngeal myiasis in European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) is a pathological condition caused by the larval stages of Cephenemyia stimulator, a fly from the Oestridae family. These larvae reside in the host's upper respiratory tract for months, inducing significant tissue damage and clinical symptoms. The lifecycle of Cephenemyia stimulator is complex, involving three larval stages before maturation into adult flies, with each stage contributing to the progressive pathology observed in the host. Despite their prevalence, the histopathological effects of these larvae in the nasal and nasopharyngeal cavities have been understudied. Our study fills this knowledge gap by providing a detailed histopathological analysis of the affected tissues, using various staining techniques to reveal the extent and nature of the damage caused by these parasitic larvae. This histopathological examination reveals significant alterations within the nasopharyngeal mucosa and nasal cavity, including erythematous changes, mucosal metaplasia, fibrosis, and tissue necrosis. Parasitic cysts and eosinophilic infiltration further characterize the impact of the infestation, compromising not only the mucosal integrity but also potentially the olfactory function of the affected animals. This research is crucial for understanding the impact of myiasis on both the health and olfactory capabilities of roe deer populations and could have significant implications for wildlife management and conservation.

Diagnostic Dilemma: IgG4-Related Sclerosing Mesenteritis Mimicking an Abdominal Malignancy Enveloping the Superior Mesenteric Artery.

Sclerosing mesenteritis, a rare fibroinflammatory disease affecting the mesentery, presents a diagnostic challenge due to its varied clinical manifestations and unknown etiology. We present a case of a 50-year-old female presenting with epigastric pain and weight loss, initially suspected of abdominal malignancy. Imaging revealed a mesenteric mass, and histopathological examination confirmed dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with storiform fibrosis, along with elevated serum IgG4 levels, indicative of IgG4-related sclerosing mesenteritis. Treatment with thalidomide and prednisolone resulted in significant mass regression and symptom improvement. Our case highlights the importance of considering sclerosing mesenteritis in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses and suggests a potential therapeutic approach for this rare condition. Further research is warranted to elucidate its pathogenesis and optimize management strategies.

Evaluation of the effect of enriched hydrogen saline solution on distant organ (lung) damage in skeletal muscle ischemia reperfusion in rats.

INTRODUCTION: Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is a major concern that frequently occurs during vascular surgeries. Hydrogen-rich saline (HRS) solution exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to examine the effects of HRS applied before ischemia in the lungs of rats using a lower extremity IR model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After approval was obtained from the ethics committee, 18 male Wistar albino rats weighing 250-280 g were randomly divided into three groups: control (C), IR and IR-HRS. In the IR and IR-HRS groups, an atraumatic microvascular clamp was used to clamp the infrarenal abdominal aorta, and skeletal muscle ischemia was induced. After 120 min, the clamp was removed, and reperfusion was achieved for 120 min. In the IR-HRS group, HRS was administered intraperitoneally 30 min before the procedure. Lung tissue samples were examined under a light microscope and stained with hematoxylin-eosin (H&E). Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, total sulfhydryl (SH) levels, and histopathological parameters were evaluated in the tissue samples. RESULTS: MDA and total SH levels were significantly higher in the IR group than in the control group (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001, respectively). MDA and total SH levels were significantly lower in the IR-HRS group than in the IR group (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.013, respectively). A histopathological examination revealed that neutrophil infiltration/aggregation, alveolar wall thickness, and total lung injury score were significantly higher in the IR group than in the control group (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Similarly, alveolar wall thickness and total lung injury scores were significantly higher in the IR-HRS group than in the control group (p = 0.009 and p = 0.004, respectively). A statistically significant decrease was observed in neutrophil infiltration/aggregation and total lung injury scores in the IR-HRS group compared to those in the IR group (p = 0.023 and p = 0.022, respectively). CONCLUSION: HRS at a dose of 20 mg/kg, administered intraperitoneally 30 min before ischemia in rats, reduced lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress, while also reducing IR damage in lung histopathology. We believe that HRS administered to rats prior to IR exerts a lung-protective effect.

Leiomioma orbitario gigante en un paciente pediátrico: reto diagnóstico y terapéutico / Giant orbital leiomyoma in a pediatric patient: Diagnostic and therapeutic challenge

Este manuscrito presenta un caso de un leiomioma orbitario de larga evolución en un joven de 14años. El tumor era inusualmente grande y causaba una proptosis severa y una afectación importante de la musculatura ocular. El paciente presentaba amaurosis, una oftalmoplejía completa, dolor ocular espontáneo e incapacidad para cerrar los párpados. Debido al tamaño del tumor y a su progresión, se realizó una exenteración orbitaria derecha para eliminar todo el contenido orbitario, incluyendo el tumor y el globo ocular. El procedimiento quirúrgico tenía como objetivo prevenir la recurrencia del tumor y mejorar la calidad de vida del paciente. El análisis histopatológico confirmó el diagnóstico de leiomioma orbitario. Este caso presenta un interés particular por el grado de evolución que ha alcanzado. La extirpación completa del tumor y un seguimiento a largo plazo son necesarios para prevenir la recurrencia y garantizar resultados óptimos para el paciente. Además, este caso refleja las grandes diferencias en el acceso a la sanidad en las diferentes regiones del mundo. (AU)

This manuscript describes an exceptional case of a long-standing orbital leiomyoma in a 14-year-old male. The tumor was unusually large, causing severe proptosis and significant involvement of the ocular muscles. The patient presented with amaurosis, complete ophthalmoplegia, spontaneous eye pain, and the inability to close the eyelids, leading to psychological distress. Due to the tumor's size and progression, a right orbital exenteration was performed to remove all orbital contents, including the tumor and the eyeball. The surgical procedure aimed to prevent tumor recurrence and improve the patient's quality of life. The histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of orbital leiomyoma. This case presents a particular interest due to the degree of evolution it has reached. Complete tumor excision and long-term follow-up are necessary to prevent recurrence and ensure optimal patient outcomes. This report underscores global healthcare disparities and the complexity of managing rare orbital neoplasms in diverse country settings. (AU)

The effects of Pediococcus acidilactici MA18/5M on growth performance, gut integrity, and immune response using in vitro and in vivo Pacific salmonid models.

Microbial management is central to aquaculture's efficiency. Pediococcus acidilactici MA18/5M has shown promising results promoting growth, modulation of the immune response, and disease resistance in many fishes. However, the mechanisms through which this strain confers health benefits in fish are poorly understood, particularly in Pacific salmonid models. Briefly, the aims of this study were to i) assess the protective effects of P. acidilactici MA18/5M by examining gut barrier function and the expression of tight junction (TJ) and immune genes in vitro and in vivo, and ii) to determine the protective effects of this strain against a common saltwater pathogen, Vibrio anguillarum J382. An in vitro model of the salmonid gut was employed utilizing the cell line RTgutGC. Barrier formation and integrity assessed by TEER measurements in RTgutGC, showed a significant decrease in resistance in cells exposed only to V. anguillarum J382 for 24 h, but pre-treatment with P. acidilactici MA18/5M for 48 h mitigated these effects. While P. acidilactici MA18/5M did not significantly upregulate tight junction and immune molecules, pre-treatment with this strain protected against pathogen-induced insults to the gut barrier. In particular, the expression of ocldn was significantly induced by V. anguillarum J382, suggesting that this molecule might play a role in the host response against this pathogen. To corroborate these observations in live fish, the effects of P. acidilactici MA18/5M was evaluated in Chinook salmon reared in real aquaculture conditions. Supplementation with P. acidilactici MA18/5M had no effect on Chinook salmon growth parameters after 10 weeks. Interestingly, histopathological results did not show alterations associated with P. acidilactici MA18/5M supplementation, indicating that this strain is safe to be used in the industry. Finally, the expression pattern of transcripts encoding TJ and immune genes in all the treatments suggest that variation in expression is more likely to be due to developmental processes rather than P. acidilactici MA18/5M supplementation. Overall, our results showed that P. acidilactici MA18/5M is a safe strain for use in fish production, however, to assess the effects on growth and immune response previously observed in other salmonid species, an assessment in adult fish is needed.

A diagnostically challenging case of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor primary to the peritoneum.

Introduction: Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors are difficult to diagnose because of the lack of specific indicators. We describe a diagnostically challenging case of an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor primary to the peritoneum. Case presentation: The patient was a 25-year-old male who presented at our hospital with lower abdominal pain. Computed tomography revealed a mass lesion 80 mm in diameter just above the bladder. This was suspected to be a bleeding tumor of the urachus. Since malignancy could not be ruled out, surgery was planned. This revealed a fragile tumor arising from the peritoneum. Following its removal, the tumor was diagnosed by histopathological analysis as an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. Conclusion: We describe a case of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor primary to the peritoneum diagnosed by histopathology. Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor should be considered in the differential diagnosis of abdominal wall and anterior bladder tumors.

Exploring the Role of Pleurotus Ostreatus as an Ointment Formulation in Inducing Wound Healing in Mice Skin.

Background: Natural compounds rich in secondary metabolites have gained attention as alternative therapies for wound healing due to their potential advantages over conventional treatments. Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms have been identified for their wound-healing properties, including promoting neovascularization, epithelialization, and collagen synthesis. Material and Methods: This study aimed to investigate the wound-healing properties of different doses of topical Extract of Pleurotus ostreatus in albino mice using an excisional wound model. The experimental design involved administering various concentrations of the extract to evaluate its effects on wound closure and histopathological and immunohistochemical parameters. Results: The results revealed significant wound closure and improvements in histopathological and immunohistochemical parameters in mice treated with Pleurotus ostreatus extract. These findings suggest the potential of Pleurotus ostreatus extract as a viable wound healing agent. Conclusion: Pleurotus ostreatus extract demonstrates promising wound-healing capabilities, including promoting wound closure and enhancing histopathological and immunohistochemical parameters in albino mice. Further research is warranted to explore its full therapeutic potential and mechanism of action in wound healing.

Transcriptional Changes in Radiation-Induced Lung Injury: A Comparative Analysis of Two Radiation Doses for Preclinical Research.

In a recent stereotactic body radiation therapy animal model, radiation pneumonitis and radiation pulmonary fibrosis were observed at around 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. However, the molecular signature of this model remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the molecular characteristics at these two stages using RNA-seq analysis. Transcriptomic profiling revealed distinct transcriptional patterns for each stage. Inflammatory response and immune cell activation were involved in both stages. Cell cycle processes and response to type II interferons were observed during the inflammation stage. Extracellular matrix organization and immunoglobulin production were noted during the fibrosis stage. To investigate the impact of a 10 Gy difference on fibrosis progression, doses of 45, 55, and 65 Gy were tested. A dose of 65 Gy was selected and compared with 75 Gy. The 65 Gy dose induced inflammation and fibrosis as well as the 75 Gy dose, but with reduced lung damage, fewer inflammatory cells, and decreased collagen deposition, particularly during the inflammation stage. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant overlap, but differences were observed and clarified in Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analysis, potentially influenced by changes in interferon-gamma-mediated lipid metabolism. This suggests the suitability of 65 Gy for future preclinical basic and pharmaceutical research connected with radiation-induced lung injury.

Association Between Muscle Growth and Transcription of a Mutant MSTN Gene in Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus).

Myostatin (MSTN, also known as growth differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8)), a member of the transforming growth factor ß (TGF-ß) superfamily, functions as a negative regulator of skeletal muscle development and growth. However, it is also expressed in a wide range of tissues in fish and thus may have more diverse roles in this group than in mammals. In this study, we assessed the genome-wide transcriptional expression pattern associated with the CRISPR/Cas9-mutated MSTN gene in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) in association with changes in cell proliferation and transportation processes. There were no differences in the hepatosomatic index, and the growth of male and female fish increased in the F1 progeny of the MSTN mutants. Furthermore, the histopathological analysis showed that myostatin editing resulted in a 41.24% increase in back muscle growth and 46.92% increase in belly muscle growth in male flounder compared with normal flounder, and a 16.01% increase in back muscle growth and 14.26% increase in belly muscle growth in female flounder compared with normal flounder. This study demonstrates that editing of the myostatin gene enhances muscle growth in olive flounder, with a notably more pronounced effect observed in males. Consequently, myostatin-edited male flounder could represent a valuable asset for the flounder aquaculture industry.

Analysis of immunohistomorphological changes in the colonic mucosa in a high-saturated fat and high-cholesterol fed streptozotocin/nicotinamide diabetic rat model.

The mucosal surface of gastrointestinal tract is lined with epithelial cells that establish an effective barrier between the lumen and internal environment through intercellular junctions, preventing the passage of potentially harmful substances. The "intestinal barrier function" consist of a defensive system that prevent the passage of antigens, toxins, and microbial products, while maintains the correct development of the epithelial barrier, the immune system and the acquisition of tolerance toward dietary antigens and intestinal microbiota. Intestinal morphology changes subsequent to nutritional variations, stress, aging or diseases, which can also affect the composition of the microbiota, altering the homeostasis of the intestine. A growing body of evidence suggests that alterations in intestinal barrier function favor the development of exaggerated immune responses, leading to metabolic endotoxemia, which seems to be the origin of many chronic metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Although the mechanisms are still unknown, the interaction between dietary patterns, gut microbiota, intestinal mucosa, and metabolic inflammation seems to be a key factor for the development of T2DM, among other diseases. This chapter details the different techniques that allow evaluating the morphological and molecular alterations that lead of the intestinal barrier dysfunction in a T2DM experimental model. To induce both diabetic metabolic disturbances and gut barrier disruption, Wistar rats were fed a high-saturated fat and high-cholesterol diet and received a single dose of streptozotocin/nicotinamide. This animal model may contribute to clarify the understanding of the role of intestinal barrier dysfunction on the late-stage T2DM etiology.

Microcystin-LR and polystyrene microplastics jointly lead to hepatic histopathological damage and antioxidant dysfunction in male zebrafish.

The co-occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms and nano-microplastic pollution in the water is becoming an emerging risk. To assess the combined hepatotoxicity of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) on zebrafish (Danio rerio), male adult zebrafish were exposed to single MC-LR (0, 1, 5, 25 µg/L) and a mixture of MC-LR and PSMPs (100 µg/L). After 60 d exposure, the results indicated that PSMPs significantly increased the MC-LR bioaccumulation in the livers in contrast to the single 25 µg/L MC-LR treatment group. Moreover, the severity of hepatic pathological lesions was aggravated in the MC-LR + PSMPs treatment groups, which were mainly characterized by cellular vacuolar degeneration, swollen hepatocytes, and pyknotic nucleus. The ultrastructural changes also proved that PSMPs combined with MC-LR could enhance the swollen mitochondria and dilated endoplasmic reticulum. The biochemical results, including increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased glutathione (GSH), indicated that PSMPs intensified the MC-LR-induced oxidative damage in the combined treatment groups. Concurrently, alterations of sod1 and keap1a mRNA levels also confirmed that PSMPs together with MC-LR jointly lead to enhanced oxidative injury. Our findings demonstrated that PSMPs enhanced the MC-LR bioavailability by acting as a vector and exacerbating the hepatic injuries and antioxidant dysfunction in zebrafish.

Giant orbital leiomyoma in a pediatric patient: diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

This manuscript describes an exceptional case of a long-standing orbital leiomyoma in a 14-year-old male. The tumor was unusually large, causing severe proptosis and significant involvement of the ocular muscles. The patient presented with amaurosis, complete ophthalmoplegia, spontaneous eye pain, and the inability to close the eyelids, leading to psychological distress. Due to the tumor's size and progression, a right orbital exenteration was performed to remove all orbital contents, including the tumor and the eyeball. The surgical procedure aimed to prevent tumor recurrence and improve the patient's quality of life. The histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of orbital leiomyoma. This case presents a particular interest due to the degree of evolution it has reached. Complete tumor excision and long-term follow-up are necessary to prevent recurrence and ensure optimal patient outcomes. This report underscores global healthcare disparities and the complexity of managing rare orbital neoplasms in diverse country settings.

Intermittent Fasting and Vitamin E Supplementation Attenuates Hypothyroidism-Associated Ophthalmopathy.

Visualization is a complex-integrated procedure of the eyes and brain that allows to see this colorful world. Hypothyroidism-associated ophthalmopathy (HAO), often known as dry eyes, swelling around the eyes, blurred vision, glaucoma, and cataracts, are some eye-related issues caused by hypothyroidism. Yet there is no permanent cure for hypothyroidism; taking medicine throughout life is the only solution to keep its harmful effects under control. This study used intermittent fasting (IF) and vitamin E (Vit.E) supplementation to prevent hypothyroidism-associated ophthalmopathy. This study hypothesized that intermittent fasting-like diet regimens and vitamin supplementation should reduce the propagation of HAO by its antioxidant potential. In the present study, experimental animals are divided into five groups: normal, hypothyroidism control, dual, Vit. E, and IF. Hypothyroidism is generated in the experimental groups by taking propylthiouracil (PTU) for 24 days while also taking IF and Vit. E supplements. The hypothyroid-induced experimental animals demonstrated an increase in IOP and lipid peroxidation while thyroid hormone levels depicted a massive decline which is a clear denotation of the effects of the thyroid on eyes and lifestyle. Ancient Ayurveda inspires these proposed therapies and has successfully reduced all the damage to the thyroid gland and the eye.

Citrus reticulata peel extract mitigates oxidative stress and liver injury induced by abamectin in rats.

The prevalent use of abamectin (ABM) has latterly raised safety attention as it has different toxicities to non-target living organisms. Citrus fruits are widely renowned for their nutritional and health-promoting qualities, and their peels are full of phenolic constituents. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the modulatory effectiveness of Citrus reticulata peel extract (CPE) against abamectin-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative injury. Rats were distributed into 4 groups as follows: control, CPE (400 mg/kg bw orally for 14 days), ABM (2 mg/kg bw for 5 days), and CPE + ABM at the doses mentioned above. Results revealed that GC-MS analysis of CPE has 19 identified components with significant total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Treatment with ABM in rats displayed significant variations in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, oxidative stress markers (MDA, H2O2, PCC), liver and kidney function biomarkers, hematological parameters, lipids, and protein profile as well as histopathological abnormalities, inflammation and apoptosis (TNF-α, Caspase-3, NF-κB, and Bcl-2 genes) in rats' liver. Supplementation of CPE solo dramatically improved the antioxidant state and reduced oxidative stress. C. reticulata peel extract pretreatment alleviated ABM toxicity by modulating most of the tested parameters compared to the ABM group. Conclusively, CPE had potent antioxidant activity and could be used in the modulation of ABM hepatotoxicity presumably due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gene-regulating capabilities.