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Cryptosporidiosis is a significant zoonotic enteric infection at the human-livestock interface. In Egypt, Cryptosporidium spp. has been widely reported in both humans and domestic animals, with prevalence varying across regions and host species, highlighting its importance as a public health and veterinary concern. This study investigated the prevalence and epidemiological correlates of Cryptosporidium spp. infection among domestic ruminants and closely exposed humans in Aswan Governorate, Egypt, using parasitological and molecular approaches. A total of 870 fecal samples were collected, including 684 from domestic ruminants (cattle calves n = 238, buffalo calves n = 186, lambs n = 127, and goat kids n = 133) and 186 from humans (1-65 years) in close contact with the examined animals. Samples were initially examined using microscopy and an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). PCR was subsequently performed on IFA-positive samples to confirm the presence of Cryptosporidium DNA. Associations between infection and potential risk factors were assessed using logistic regression analysis, and results were expressed as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in ruminants was 34.5% (236/684; 95% CI: 30.9-38.2) and 31.6% (216/684; 95% CI: 28.1-35.2) as determined by microscopic and immunofluorescence examination, respectively. Among humans in close contact with the examined ruminants, the prevalence was 25.3% (47/186; 95% CI: 19.4-32.0) and 18.8% (35/186; 95% CI: 13.5-25.2), respectively. Nested PCR analysis of immunofluorescence-positive samples confirmed infection in 89.8% (194/216; 95% CI: 85.0-93.4) of ruminant samples and 91.4% (32/35; 95% CI: 76.9-98.2) of human samples. In ruminants, univariable analysis showed that infection was significantly associated with sex (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.28-2.42; p < 0.05), age (highest in 1-3 months: OR = 4.58; 95% CI: 2.66-7.88; p < 0.001), season (spring: OR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.59-4.38; p < 0.001), and fecal consistency (liquid feces: OR = 8.32; 95% CI: 3.75-18.47; p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified age and fecal consistency as independent predictors. In humans, age was the only significant factor, with higher odds in children aged 1-10 years (OR = 6.44; 95% CI: 1.75-23.77; p = 0.0412), remaining significant after adjustment. Cryptosporidiosis is highly prevalent in Aswan, particularly among young ruminants, with prevalent infection observed among closely exposed humans-especially children. These findings highlight the importance of improving hygiene in young livestock, managing diarrheic animals, and reducing environmental contamination of manure and water sources. Species-level identification was not performed; therefore, zoonotic transmission could not be confirmed. Further molecular characterization studies are needed to determine circulating Cryptosporidium spp. and better understand transmission dynamics within a One Health framework.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) induces endocrine and exocrine dysfunction, including salivary gland impairment. While the sublingual gland (SLG) contributes to saliva production, its involvement in diabetes remains understudied. Agmatine (AGM), a naturally occurring polyamine, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its protective effects on the SLG and pancreas in diabetes have remained largely uninvestigated. This study introduces new insights into SLG injury in diabetes and the dose-dependent protective benefits of AGM through multi-level analysis. Male Wistar rats were rendered diabetic by a single intraperitoneal STZ injection (65 mg/kg) and treated with either low-dose (40 mg/kg) or high-dose (100 mg/kg) AGM for two weeks. SLGs and the pancreas were analyzed by histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical methods. Mucin secretion (MUC-5B) was measured, oxidative stress markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines were quantified, and structural changes were evaluated using H&E, Alcian Blue/PAS, and Mallory's trichrome staining. Immunohistochemistry included α-SMA and CK17 for SLG and insulin receptor for the pancreas. STZ-induced diabetes resulted in a substantial reduction in MUC-5B, increased oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory markers, damage to acinar and myoepithelial cells, and injury to pancreatic β-cells. Agmatine administration enhanced these parameters in a dose-dependent manner, with high-dose treatment reinstating mucin secretion, regulating oxidative and inflammatory indicators, and maintaining histological and immunohistochemical integrity in both the sublingual gland and pancreas. AGM confers dose-dependent protection against SLG dysfunction and pancreatic damage in diabetic rats via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective mechanisms. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of AGM in preventing salivary gland dysfunction and maintaining pancreatic function in diabetes.
The use of diverse diagnostic methods in the absence of a definitive gold standard makes it challenging to determine the most appropriate test for diagnosing human intestinal nematode infections (HINIs), particularly across various clinical settings with varying endemicity. The ideal diagnostic method should be feasible, cost-effective, and accurate. This review evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), comparing them to the Kato-Katz (KK) and flotation methods for the detection of ascariasis, trichuriasis, and hookworm infection, the Baermann technique (BT) for strongyloidiasis, the Scotch tape test for enterobiasis, and a composite reference standard (CRS). We systematically searched PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Trip, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and the academic search engine Google Scholar for studies published within the 12 years preceding September 2024. After the title, abstract and full-text screening, the selected studies were assessed for their methodological quality using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies - Version 2 (QUADAS-2). Data were extracted into 2x2 contingency tables, and sensitivity and specificity were pooled using the Reitsma bivariate random-effects model. Forest plots and summary ROC curves were used to explore heterogeneity. Of the 3,239 articles screened, 35 met the inclusion criteria. Overall, NAATs showed higher pooled sensitivity for HINIs. For Ascaris lumbricoides, NAATs showed markedly higher sensitivities of 96-98% against the CRSs, compared with KK and flotation methods (57-67%). For Trichuris trichiura, NAAT sensitivity ranged from 74 to 87% across CRSs, whereas KK and flotation exhibited slightly lower but comparable sensitivities (70-83%). For hookworm, NAATs achieved sensitivities of 88-95% against CRS, substantially exceeding those of KK (43%) and flotation (59%) against CRS, with specificities above 87%. In detecting Strongyloides stercoralis, NAATs showed 80% sensitivity versus the BT, increasing to 93% against CRS, while the BT showed a sensitivity of 59%. When all soil-transmitted helminths were analysed collectively, pooled sensitivities of NAATs (75-84%) exceeded those of KK (64%), with consistently high specificity across all diagnostic methods. For hookworm, NAATs detected approximately two to threefold more infections than KK and flotation methods, when evaluated against a CRS, highlighting the substantial under-detection by conventional microscopy. NAATs provide markedly higher sensitivity than copro-microscopy, especially for low-intensity or post-MDA infections. Combining routine microscopy with targeted NAAT deployment and emerging low-cost molecular approaches can optimise diagnostic accuracy and surveillance feasibility, strengthening control programmes and accelerating progress toward the WHO 2030 deworming and elimination goals.
This study aimed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic performance of the Midi Parasep® Solvent Free (SF) system and the Ritchie method for detecting helminths and protozoa in clinical stool samples. It also assessed the most suitable concentration technique for different laboratory contexts on the basis of parasitic burden and epidemiological factors. A retrospective comparative study was performed with 100 helminth-positive samples from the Drassanes Vall d'Hebron Microbiology Laboratory (Barcelona, Spain). Samples were previously identified using the Ritchie technique and were reprocessed using the Midi Parasep® SF system. All samples were examined by expert microscopists and in accordance with World Health Organization protocols and quality standards. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Z-test or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate, and differences were considered statistically significant at P < 0.05. The Ritchie method detected 139 parasitic aetiologies, whereas Midi Parasep® SF identified 85, yielding an overall concordance of 61.15%. While protozoan detection showed 100% concordance between both methods, the correlation for helminths was significantly lower (54.6%; P < 0.001). Midi Parasep® SF exhibited reduced sensitivity, particularly for larger helminths (e.g., Strongyloides stercoralis, Schistosoma intercalatum) and samples with low parasitic burden. In addition, the AlcorfixTM fixative agent caused morphological alterations in some helminth eggs and larvae. Midi Parasep® SF offers operational advantages and hazard reduction; however, the Ritchie method is more sensitive for helminth detection. The choice of concentration technique should be guided by the clinical context. Midi Parasep® SF is efficient for protozoa and suitable for routine use in high-throughput settings. Conversely, the Ritchie method is preferable when helminth infection is highly suspected, particularly in migrant or travel medicine populations. Moreover, other diagnostic techniques, such as serological assays, could contribute to a more accurate diagnosis, thereby guiding the selection of the most appropriate concentration technique.
Cellular imaging is important in understanding drug pharmacokinetics and dynamics. As such, it is crucial that the drug is unmodified when performing these studies, to neither inhibit nor change its action and properties. Historically, fluorescence microscopy has been used for drug imaging due to its high sensitivity and ease of use, but bulky fluorescent tags have the potential to cause off-target effects and result in a change in the pharmacokinetic properties. The use and development of small optical tags are therefore attractive, as cellular systems can be probed with minimal perturbation to the cellular environment and the native kinetics of a drug. Bio-orthogonal Raman imaging makes use of molecular vibrations that are seldom observed in nature to determine spatial localization. Spontaneous Raman scattering can be used to achieve minimally labeled drug localization but is relatively slow and has a low spatial resolution when compared to fluorescence microscopy. Faster image acquisition and higher spatial resolution can be achieved by using stimulated Raman scattering (SRS), a powerful technique that is often used for native cellular imaging. The use of either intrinsically bio-orthogonal drugs or those with a small tag added allows Raman scattering to be used as a companion imaging diagnostic tool. This work assesses the localization of a covalently binding inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase, ibrutinib, using fluorescently labeled and bio-orthogonally Raman labeled analogues as companion diagnostic tools. Localization of these analogues was determined using fluorescence and Raman microscopies, and inhibitor retention was proportional to the expression of the kinase. Significant retention of the fluorescent analogue was observed independent of kinase expression, indicating significant nonspecific binding. Drug-induced effects were also explored using spectral phasor analysis of hyperspectral SRS data to assess lipid metabolism, where BTK inhibition was shown to cause an increase in the lipid content and change in the lipid type, which was proportional to kinase expression. This work showcases the advantages of Raman scattering techniques over fluorescence as companion imaging diagnostic tool and as a method of assessing phenotypic lipid shifts upon treatment with an anticancer drug.
In the present study, the adhesive organ (AO) of Hara hara, a hillstream catfish, has been investigated using scanning electron microscopy, histology, and glycoprotein, protein, and lectin histochemistry. The AO is a disc-like structure present on the ventral side of the body. It is distinguished into a major flat central region and a narrow flap-like region at the periphery of the central region. The free surface of the AO is characteristically differentiated into plaques separated by furrows. Surface epithelial cells in the plaques are modified into unicellular spine-like unculi. The furrow epithelium contains three types of unicellular gland cells (the mucous goblet cells, the club cells, and the sacciform cells), along with sensory structures such as the taste buds (TBs). Gland cells are involved in the elaboration of various glycoproteins (oxidizable vicinal diols, carboxyl groups, and O-sulphate esters); protein moieties (basic proteins, cysteine-bound sulphydryl groups, keratin, tyrosine, protein bound-NH2 groups, and elastin); and glycans (galactose, N-Acetylgalactosamine, and fucose). Presence of these glycoprotein and protein moieties elaborated by the cellular component of the AO has been associated to play an important role in maintaining structural integrity of the epithelium, keratinization, protection against pathogens, and adhesion of the fish to the substratum. The TBs located at the summit of the tubercles in the furrow epithelium may serve as an adaptation to enhance sensitivity to food selection and environmental perception. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the structural and functional adaptations that enable H. hara to maintain effective attachment and thrive in turbulent hillstream environments.
To compare unsedated noncontact specular microscopy imaging techniques for the canine corneal endothelium and identify the most effective technique. Nineteen eyes of 10 systemically healthy, staff-owned dogs with clinically normal corneas were studied. Six imaging groups were divided according to the different techniques used in all eyes: central focusing, with (CP) or without (CN) induction of an indirect pupillary light reflex (PLR); peripheral focusing with (PP) or without (PN) an indirect PLR; PP with application of a contact lens (CL); and gaze fixation with a treat (GF). The success rates, imaging times, and endothelial cell indices were compared. Success rates differed significantly among the techniques, with PP and CL achieving significantly higher success rates than CN. When only successful images were analyzed, the mean imaging time showed no statistically significant differences between the groups. In the sensitivity analysis, PP required significantly shorter imaging times than CN and PN. The Endothelial cell indices (cell count, endothelial density, and hexagonality) did not differ significantly among the techniques. Peripheral focusing combined with the induction of an indirect PLR (PP) achieved significantly higher success rates and shorter imaging times than other techniques, suggesting that this technique provides the most reliable and efficient approach for evaluating the canine corneal endothelium with noncontact specular microscopy under unsedated conditions.
The pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella Saunders is a major pest of cotton, notorious for its high reproductive potential and rapid evolution of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins. Despite its economic significance, detailed knowledge of its reproductive anatomy and egg ultrastructure has remained limited, constraining the development of advanced molecular control strategies such as CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing. The present study provides the first comprehensive characterization of the reproductive system and egg surface morphology of P. gossypiella using stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The male reproductive system consists of fused, bean-shaped testes, seminal vesicles, duplex and simplex ejaculatory ducts, and paired accessory glands. The female reproductive system comprises paired ovaries with four polytrophic ovarioles per ovary, lateral and common oviducts, accessory glands, corpus bursae, and spermathecal glands. Eggs are oval, dorsoventrally flattened, exhibit a reticulated chorion with distinct micropylar and aeropylar regions. SEM images revealed 6-9 rosette cells encircling a circular micropylar plate, 14-19 first order and 17-23 s order ribs, and 250-291 polygonal surface cells. The structural features of P. gossypiella eggs reveal key sites for sperm entry, aeropylar respiration, and candidate zones for microinjection in gene editing applications. These findings establish a morphological baseline critical for optimizing embryo manipulation and ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery in lepidopteran genome editing. This study represents a pioneering effort to integrate classical egg morphology with molecular entomology, thereby advancing precision genetic interventions aimed at resistance management and population suppression in P. gossypiella.
This study evaluated the efficacy of novel post space disinfection protocols-indocyanine green-loaded cerium oxide nanoparticle-mediated photodynamic therapy (ICG-CeO2NPs-PDT), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), and potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser irradiation-combined with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelation on smear layer (SL) removal and push-out bond strength (PBS) of glass fiber posts (GFP) to root canal dentin. Forty-eight extracted human premolars underwent standardized endodontic treatment and post-space preparation. Specimens were randomly allocated to four groups (n = 12): Group 1 (saline + EDTA control), Group 2 (2.5% NaOCl + EDTA), Group 3 (KTP laser + EDTA), and Group 4 (ICG-CeO2NPs-PDT + EDTA). SL removal was quantified using scanning electron microscopy with a four-point scoring system. Following GFP cementation and thermocycling (10,000 cycles), PBS was measured at cervical, middle, and apical regions. Failure modes were classified as adhesive, cohesive, or mixed. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05). Groups 2 and 4 demonstrated significantly superior SL removal (scores 1.12-2.45 and 1.17-2.20, respectively) compared to Groups 1 and 3 (3.31-3.99 and 3.40-3.99, p < 0.05). Correspondingly, Groups 2 and 4 achieved 40%-60% higher push-out bond strength (6.71-7.88 MPa and 7.02-8.45 MPa) versus Groups 1 and 3 (4.51-5.27 MPa and 4.73-5.48 MPa, p < 0.05). Groups 2 and 4 exhibited predominantly cohesive failures (50%-80%), while Groups 1 and 3 showed adhesive failures (60%-90%). ICG-CeO2NPs-PDT demonstrates efficacy equivalent to conventional NaOCl-EDTA irrigation for optimizing glass fiber post adhesion, outperforming KTP laser and saline protocols, warranting clinical evaluation.
The global rise of extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, particularly biofilm-forming strains, has drastically limited treatment options and created an urgent need for novel therapies to restore antibiotic efficacy. This study explored p-coumaric acid (p-CA) as a potential dual-action agent to combat biofilm-associated XDR Acinetobacter baumannii infections and restore imipenem efficacy. Among 100 clinical Acinetobacter baumannii isolates, 32 were identified as XDR and exhibited resistance to imipenem. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy of p-CA was systematically evaluated through comprehensive in vitro assays and an in vivo rat infection model. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined via the broth microdilution method, and the potential modulation effect on imipenem efficacy was investigated. To assess biofilm inhibition and disruption, quantitative analyses were performed using the crystal violet staining technique, complemented by evaluating its impact on the bacterial cell surface hydrophobicity and exopolysaccharide production. Biofilm structural changes were analyzed via light, scanning electron, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Additionally, the expression levels of key biofilm-associated genes were quantified via quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The p-CA exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against the tested isolates (MIC: 512 µg/mL) and synergized with imipenem, reducing its MIC by 512-fold. At subinhibitory concentrations (¼-½ MIC), it inhibited biofilm formation (66.2-80.5%, p < 0.05) and disrupted pre-formed biofilms (45.8-71.3%, p < 0.05), likely via altered cell surface hydrophobicity and reduced EPS production. Microscopic imaging corroborated these findings, revealing substantial structural degradation of biofilms upon treatment. At the molecular level, p-CA significantly downregulated (p < 0.05) the key biofilm-associated genes (abaI, bfmR, bap, csuE, and pgaB), as quantified by RT-qPCR. In vivo, the p-CA/imipenem combination significantly enhanced the survival rates (100%, p < 0.05) and reduced the lung bacterial burden (p < 0.001). Histopathological examination showed near-complete restoration of alveolar architecture by 72 h post-treatment in the combination therapy group. These findings position p-CA as a promising dual-action adjuvant against XDR Acinetobacer baumannii infections, particularly in biofilm-associated contexts. It combines direct antimicrobial activity, biofilm disruption, and synergy with imipenem to address critical treatment gaps.
Andrographolide (AG), a natural diterpenoid compound derived from Andrographis paniculata, exhibits potential against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, its therapeutic utility is limited by poor solubility, short half-life, and low bioavailability. This study aimed to enhance AG's efficacy by encapsulating it into exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) isolated from Nauclea officinalis (N. officinalis, Rubiaceae family) and evaluating its anti-NASH activity in WRL68 cells. This study isolated Nauclea officinalis-derived ELNs (N-ELNs) via ultracentrifugation. Loganin, andrographolide, and asiatic acid were detected in N-ELNs using the HPLC method. RNA sequencing and target gene analysis identified miRNAs in N-ELNs and their cross-kingdom targets in the human genome. AG-loaded N-ELNs (AG-N-ELNs) were prepared using a passive loading method and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analyzer, and high-performance liquid chromatography. Their effects were tested in free fatty acid (FFA)-exposed WRL68 cells. As for the results, AG suppressed Nuclear Factor kappa-B p50 (NF-κB p50) activation, downregulated NLRP3 expression, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in WRL68 cells. It also restored mitochondrial membrane potential and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS). N-ELNs targeted the ACC/ CPT1 axis to alleviate lipid deposition, reducing total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. AG-N-ELNs outperformed both AG and N-ELNs individually, demonstrating superior anti-NASH activity through synergistic effects of AG's anti-inflammatory/antioxidant properties and N-ELNs' miRNA-mediated metabolic regulation. In conclusion, AG-N-ELNs effectively alleviate NASH-like pathological features in vitro through multi-target regulation, offering a promising strategy for NASH treatment. Further in vivo validation and formulation optimization are warranted.
Accurate counting of nanoparticles in microscopy images such as SEM and TEM is critical for advancing materials science and nanotechnology. Though many conventional as well as novel methods exist to count particles in microscopy images, the presence of overlapping particles poses significant challenges. This study introduces a novel computational approach to count nanoparticles in microscopy images, addressing limitations in handling particle overlap. The proposed method integrates distance transform, watershed segmentation, and U-Net machine learning. Distance transform enhances finding center points of the particles; watershed segmentation effectively separates overlapping particles; and U-Net enables robust particle segmentation from complex image backgrounds. The methodology was first developed using computer-generated grayscale images with varying particle sizes and overlap percentages, then validated on a dataset of 17 TEM images (1022 × 668 pixels) of Fe3O4 and silica-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles at 20 nm and 50 nm scales. Conventional convolution-based methods could accurately count non-overlapping particles but failed to give the accurate count when particles were overlapped. The accuracy of convolution-based methods also depended on kernel radius selection. Replacing convolution method with the distance transform and watershed method significantly improved the accuracy of particle counting in images with overlapping particles. The U-Net model, combined with a smooth blending algorithm, achieved a mean percentage error of 6.5% in particle counting on real TEM images. This approach demonstrates significant promise for applications in materials science, nanotechnology, and biology, where accurate particle quantification is essential. By addressing the limitations of conventional techniques, it offers a practical and efficient solution for automated nanoparticle analysis in microscopy images.
The olfactory system of parasitoid wasps plays a pivotal role in multiple, essential activities including feeding, mating, oviposition, and host localization. Tetrastichus sp. is a nymphal parasitoid wasp of Agrilus sp. In order to provide morphological basis for further study on behavior of host selection. In the present study, ultrastructure, abundance, distribution and types of the antennal sensilla in both sexes of Tetrastichus sp. were studied using scanning electron microscopy. Antennal sensilla of males and females were compared to those in other hymenopteran parasitoid species and their probable roles were discussed. The antennae of female and male adults of Tetrastichus sp. are similar in shape and belong to geniculate antennae. Antennae consist of radicle, scape, pedicel, anellus, funicle and clava. The female flagellate segment consists of three flagellate subsegments and the male flagellate segment consists of four flagellate subsegments. Six morphologically distinct sensilla types of both sexes of Tetrastichus sp. were observed externally, including Böhm sensilla (BBs), sensilla trichodea (St), sensilla chaetica (SCh), sensilla placodea (Sp), Sensilla mammilliformia (SM), and sensilla styloconicum (Ssty). The phenomenon of sexual dimorphism of antennal sensilla is obvious between the male and female, and the morphological structure, types, number and distribution of the sensilla are different, which could be related to the different functions of the antennal sensilla of male and female. This study is of certain significance to provide the morphological and ultrastructural study of antennal sensilla in Tetrastichus sp. and lays a solid foundation for follow-up functional studies.
Wildlife conservation in Saudi Arabia is gaining much attention from the authorities. Habitat destruction, climate change, and human encroachment, as well as disease outbreaks, negatively impact conservation efforts. Hemoparasites among endangered Saudi wildlife have not been studied before. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of hemoparasites among two endangered gazelle species, Gazella marica (Reem) and Gazella arabica (Idmi), raised at King Khalid Wildlife Research Center (KKWRC) for breeding and reintroduction purposes. A total of 233 blood samples were collected from the jugular veins of gazelles and examined microscopically for the detection of piroplasm or any relevant blood parasites. Ticks were collected from some gazelles at KKWRC to identify them and see their potential role in the transmission of hemoparasites. DNA was extracted from the collected blood and ticks for the detection of hemoparasites and amplified, targeting the partial 18S rRNA gene. The prevalence of intraerythrocytic bodies suggestive of Theileria sp. was detected in 41 (17.9%) gazelles of both species, whereas PCR products of Theileria sp. DNA was detected in 65 (27.9%) gazelles. The sensitivity of the molecular technique compared to the direct microscopy was 76.74%, whereas the specificity was 83.16%. Ticks were morphologically identified as Hyalomma impeltatum and confirmed with molecular techniques. Sequences obtained from Theileria sp. from both Reem and Idmi gazelles were identical, except for a single mutation (transition) at position 140: a T in Reem sequences, whereas it was a C in all Idmi sequences. Phylogenetic studies indicated that sequences obtained from gazelles in the present study group were related to Theileria sp., which was isolated from the Chinkara gazelle from Pakistan and related to isolates from the dama gazelle. Theileria sp. DNA was amplified from two ticks collected from Reem gazelles and found to be identical to the Theileria sp. sequences obtained from Reem gazelles. This finding suggested that H. impeltatum may carry Theileria DNA; however, vector competence requires further investigations. The prevalence of Theileria infection in gazelles at KKWRC in Saudi Arabia was reported for the first time. The possible vector responsible for the transmission was also identified.
Curcumin is a polyphenol phytochemical that is extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa Linn. (Zingiberaceae) in the Zingiberaceae family. In recent years, the investigation of curcumin has notably skyrocketed due to its broad pharmacological profile, as evidenced by its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumoral properties. While research and use of curcumin are significantly increasing, its apparent poor water solubility has notably limited its potential as a promising chemical entity. Consequently, efforts to enhance its apparent solubility without altering the chemical properties have been considered. Among the leading techniques is nanocrystasllisation which involves modifying its physicochemical properties, such as particle size, shape and electrical charge. Nanocrystallisation is a nanoscience technique that utilises the drug's crystalline properties to enhance its solubility, bioavailability, and overall pharmacological activity. To date, various nanocrystallisation techniques have been employed, including high-pressure homogenisation, sonoprecipitation, and the solvent-antisolvent precipitation technique. Curcumin nanocrystallisation has often been reported for the improvement of its loading capacity, as it requires fewer excipients and significantly enhances the minimal dose efficiency. Furthermore, the significant role of curcumin in primarily female-associated cancers has been highlighted in some in vitro studies. Therefore, this review will focus on the elaboration of nanocrystals and its promising role in breast and gynaecological cancers. Given the limited studies reported on the anticancer activity of breast and gynaecological cancers curcumin nanocrystals, this review also aims to highlight the research gaps concerning the anticancer activity of curcumin nanocrystals.
This study provides a detailed characterization of the macroscopic anatomy and microscopic features (light and scanning electron microscopy) of the lingual papillae in the adult Anatolian wild boar (Sus scrofa libycus). Tissue samples were taken from two adult wild boars found dead in their natural habitat within an average of 1.5 h. Following macroscopic observation, samples underwent routine histological processing, histochemical staining, and high-resolution surface morphology analysis via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Morphological analysis revealed five distinct types of papillae: filiform, fungiform, conical, foliate, and vallate. Filiform papillae, exhibiting either sharp or blunt apices, showed structural adaptations specialized for mechanical function. Fungiform papillae were identified in circular and oval forms; notably, taste buds were restricted to the circular type. Foliate papillae, comprising 3-5 distinct folds, lacked taste buds. A pair of vallate papillae, each demarcated by a prominent trench and housing lateral taste buds, was observed on the caudal tongue. Histochemical evaluation using Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) and Alcian Blue (AB) confirmed the presence of both neutral and acidic mucins within the lingual glands. These findings suggest that the lingual morphology of the Anatolian wild boar is closely adapted to its specific dietary habits and ecological niche. This data serves as a critical baseline for comparative anatomy, forensic veterinary medicine, and future morphological research.
The ovarian suspensory ligament (OSL) is routinely manipulated during ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy in dogs. Despite its surgical relevance, it is traditionally described only macroscopically as a fibrous band, and its microscopic composition has not been characterized. To provide the first detailed histological and ultrastructural characterization of the canine ovarian suspensory ligament. OSL samples were collected from twenty female dogs and processed for histology. Sections were stained with Masson's trichrome, Sirius Red, Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin, and anti-α-smooth muscle actin immunohistochemistry. Tissue components were quantified by surface density using a point-counting method. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to assess ultrastructural organization. Comparisons were made between sides and across age, body weight, and reproductive variables (p < 0.05). The OSL did not resemble a dense collagenous ligament. Instead, it showed a heterogeneous architecture dominated by smooth muscle (46.3 ± 11.7%), followed by collagenous connective tissue (32.9 ± 8.9%), elastic system fibers (5.3 ± 2.1%), adipose tissue (2.7 ± 2.9%), and blood vessels (2.1 ± 2.7%). Immunohistochemistry confirmed the smooth muscle phenotype, and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated a loosely organized collagen network. No significant differences in composition were observed according to side, age, body weight, estrous history, or parity. The canine OSL is not a classical dense fibrous ligament but a muscular ligament. These findings refine its anatomical characterization and have implications for surgical technique and future studies on pharmacologic relaxation.
This paper analyses hair restoration products currently on the market that treat chemically processed hair. This study measured the restoration of structural integrity in hair samples from both chemically damaged hair (chemically relaxed, bleached, and chemically color-treated) and virgin hair. Hair samples were exposed to two hair restoration products (low- and high-cost), formulated with ingredients from two different price points. This analysis is essential because of the challenges in finding scientific information on treatment protocols for processes that can damage hair. The effectiveness of these treatments was evaluated by assessing the structural damage caused by the chemical processes using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Raman spectroscopy. The results indicated that chemical processes alter Keratin's conformation, resulting in detrimental effects on the hair fiber. The cumulative impact of these processes chemically and physically modifies the hair's structure. The findings revealed that the most effective treatment was the High Cost (HC) product, which contains coconut oil and glycerol. This treatment was particularly effective for hair that had undergone significant degradation, particularly from bleaching followed by color treatment. Remarkably, this high-cost (HC) product produced a higher level of morphological restoration than expected, even aiding in the recovery of cuticular cells.
Protein aggregates and particles in biologicals are considered impurities and critical quality attributes because they could elicit immunogenicity. An appropriate control strategy should be established to monitor and control them following their characterization. As aggregates and particles range in size from nanometer to millimeters, various analytical techniques are required to characterize aggregates and particles depending on their size, the scope of the analysis, and the development stage. To characterize protein aggregates and particles in the micron size range, light obscuration (LO), flow imaging (FI), and membrane microscopy are primarily used in the biopharmaceutical industry. LO is the preferred technique for quantifying subvisible particles as the internationally harmonized pharmacopoeia test. However, there have been several issues associated with LO for more than a decade, and FI has emerged as a promising technique to complement LO. This perspective paper discusses the efforts made by the Japanese Biopharmaceutical Consortium regarding FI to resolve issues related to LO and outlines the newly listed general information chapter of the Japanese Pharmacopoeia. Finally, the use of FI as well as future challenges for the generalization of FI are summarized from an industry perspective.