Sarcoma diagnosis by DNA methylation classifier: A systematic review, current status and future prospects.

Sarcomas, a diverse group of malignant tumors originating from connective tissues, present substantial diagnostic challenges due to their histological heterogeneity. Traditional diagnostic methods include histomorphology along with immunohistochemistry is necessary for primary evaluation. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a supplementary tool that helps with additional findings. However it is very difficult sometimes to accurately classify sarcoma subtypes despite all these tools. Recent advancements in DNA methylation profiling have emerged as a promising approach to enhance the precision of sarcoma diagnosis. This paper delves into the role of DNA methylation classifiers in diagnosing sarcomas, emphasizing their potential to improve diagnostic accuracy, inform treatment decisions, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.

The myoarchitecture of the vertebrate cardiac ventricles: evolution and classification.

The ventricle of the vertebrate heart is the main segment of the cardiac outflow region. Compared with other cardiac components, it shows remarkable histomorphological variation among different animal groups. This variation is especially apparent in the myocardium, which is generally classified into three main types: trabeculated, compact and mixed. The trabeculated or 'spongy' myocardium is characterized by the existence of trabeculae and deep recesses or intertrabecular spaces, lined by the endocardium. The compact type is composed of condensed myocardial fibers, with almost no trabeculated layer. The mixed type consists of an outer compact layer and an inner trabeculated layer. Among vertebrates, fishes show a great diversity of myocardial types. On this basis, the ventricular myoarchitecture has been categorized into four groups of varying complexity. This classification is made according to (i) the proportion of the two types of myocardium, trabeculated versus compact, and (ii) the vascularization of the heart wall. Here, we review the morphogenetic mechanisms that give rise to the different ventricular myoarchitecture in gnathostomes (i.e. jawed vertebrates) with special emphasis on the diversity of the ventricular myocardium throughout the phylogeny of ancient actinopterygians and teleosts. Finally, we propose that the classification of the ventricular myoarchitecture should be reconsidered, given that the degrees of myocardial compactness on which the current classification system is based do not constitute discrete states, but an anatomical continuum.

Comprehensive study of ancient schwannoma: Exploring histomorphological diversity and diagnostic challenges.

Background: Ancient schwannoma is a rare subtype of schwannoma characterized by an extended duration of development and distinctive degenerative changes. These changes encompass relative loss of Antoni type A areas, perivascular hyalinization, hemorrhage, cystic necrosis, calcification, and the presence of atypical nuclei that can mimic sarcomatous pleomorphism. These histologic features often lead to diagnostic challenges, with ancient schwannomas frequently being misdiagnosed as malignant tumors. Objectives: This study aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the histomorphological spectrum observed in ancient schwannoma. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 248 schwannoma cases received at our tertiary health centre, spanning the years 2017 to 2023. Among these cases, 25 were identified as ancient schwannoma. Extensive examination of degenerative changes was performed using hematoxylin and eosin-stained paraffin-embedded tissue sections under light microscopy. Results: Patient ages ranged from 22 to 82 years, with a nearly equal distribution between genders (12 females and 13 males). Tumors were located in various anatomical sites including the forearm, brain, abdomen, retroperitoneum, intradural space, lumbar region, and pelvis. Tumor dimensions varied from 1.5 to 11 cm. Histologically, most cases exhibited nuclear atypia, cystic changes, hemorrhage, and siderophages, along with perivascular hyalinization, myxoid change, calcification, and xanthomatous change. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the neural origin of these tumors. Conclusion: Recognition of the diverse spectrum of secondary changes, coupled with the presence of focal areas showing paucicellular and cellular spindle cell arrangements, is crucial for the accurate diagnosis of ancient schwannoma. This study underscores the importance of histomorphological evaluation in distinguishing these benign tumors from malignant counterparts, thereby guiding appropriate clinical management strategies.

Nano-protected form of rosemary essential oil has a positive influence on blood biochemistry parameters, haematological indices, immune-antioxidant status, intestinal microbiota and histomorphology of meat-type chickens.

This study aimed to investigate the potential of free and nanoprotected rosemary essential oil (REO) as an antibiotic alternative in blood biochemistry, hematology, immune-antioxidant status, intestinal microbiology, and histomorphology of broilers. A total of 420 1-wk-old broiler chicks (Cobb) were randomly allotted into 7 treatments, each having 4 replicates of 15 chicks. The first group served as control received basal diet, while the second group was fed a basal diet plus 100 mg/kg enramycin and third group basal diet plus 150 mg/kg chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs). The fourth and fifth groups received diets supplemented with 100 mg and 200 mg free REO (F-REO)/kg diet. The sixth and seventh groups were supplemented with 100 mg and 200 mg nanoprotected REO (N-REO)/kg diet. Results revealed that supplementing nanoprotected REO significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the levels of blood cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) compared to control and enramycin groups. The kidney and liver function parameters were not altered by adding free or nanoprotected REO to the diet. Both levels of nanoprotected REO significantly (P < 0.05) reduced heterophil: lymphocyte (H: L) ratio compared to all other groups. Birds receiving nanoprotected REO at 200 mg/kg diet had significantly (P ˂ 0.05) raised serum levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) compared to control and other birds. Anti-SRBC titre and cell-mediated immunity improved significantly (P < 0.05) in nanoprotected REO groups. Supplementation of nanoprotected REO resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) higher values for superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant status (TAS). The caecal microbiota was improved in broiler birds fed diets supplemented with nanoprotected REO. The 200 mg nanoprotected REO/kg diet supplementation resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) better villus height (VH) and villus height: crypt depth (VH: CD) ratio in all the segments of the small intestine. In conclusion, feeding REO in nanoprotected form in a 200 mg/kg diet could be used as an antibiotic substitute to improve broiler chicken's lipid profile, immune-antioxidant status, and intestinal health.

High-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma with BCOR rearrangements: clinicopathological analysis of five cases and literature reviews - an extension in understanding of morphological characteristics.

Five cases of FISH verified BCOR rearranged high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma were retrospectively analyzed. The patient age ranged from 33 to 65 years (median, 48.4 years). Most patients presented with irregular vaginal bleeding (3/5) and uterus mass (2/5). Only one patient developed an abdominal wall metastasis and other patients remained in good condition during the follow-up. Pathological findings revealed that the tumors exhibited morphological diversity in terms of cell shape, arrangement pattern and tumor stroma, compared to previous summarized histology of BCOR rearranged high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. Detailed description of such morphology changes expanded our understanding of the histology of BCOR rearranged high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. Due to the non-specificity of morphology in such malignancies, molecular testing is needed for confirmation in all patients.

Nano-emulsified black soldier fly oil concerning performance traits, health, and immunity of broilers.

In the antibiotic-free era, traditional antibiotics have been suggested as alternatives to antibiotic-based growth promoters. Among the various methods, self-nano-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) are increasingly utilized to improve the bioavailability of oils containing essential substances. In this study, we evaluated the effects of black soldier fly oil (BSFO) SNEDDS in chicken drinking water on growth performance, small intestine histomorphology, and poultry health status. We divided 225 male Indian River strain broiler chickens into five treatment groups, each consisting of 5 replicates. The chickens were reared from to 0 to 35 d of age in a controlled environmental housing system. The BSFO SNEDDS was administered via drinking water. Treatments included ordinary drinking water (P1), bacitracin (P2), and 10 mL/L (P3), 20 mL/L (P4), and 30 mL/L (P5) BSFO SNEDDS. The observed parameters included growth performance, carcass yield, blood hematology, intestinal histomorphology, digestive microflora, and immunoglobulin (Ig) levels. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan's test. The results indicated that administering BSFO SNEDDS via drinking water improved feed conversion (P < 0.05), enhanced the performance index (P < 0.05), increased carcass percentage (P < 0.001), and increased the weight of the carcass parts. Additionally, it increased villus height (P < 0.01), lowered jejunal pH (P < 0.001), reduced pathogenic bacteria in the jejunum, and decreased the leukocyte count. BSFO SNEDDS in drinking water is expected to be used as a traditional antibiotic with the potential to replace synthetic antibiotic growth promoters in broiler chickens.

Developmental variations of the reproductive organs of ganders from different goose breeds and the underlying mechanisms.

A deep understanding of the dynamics and mechanisms of male reproductive tract development is necessary for adoption of either genetic techniques or environmental management practices for improving fertility and hatchability in poultry. However, compared with other poultry such as chickens and ducks, less is known about the age- and breed-related changes in the reproductive tract development of domestic goose ganders exhibiting relatively poor reproductive performance as well as the regulatory mechanisms. In the present study, by taking 2 Chinese domestic goose breeds (Sichuan White goose, SW and Gang goose, GE; Anser cygnoides) and one European goose breed (Landes goose, LD; Anser anser) as the experimental objects, we comprehensive analyzed the morphological, histological, and genome-wide transcriptomic variations in their testicular and external genital development during the period from hatching to sexual maturity. Results from histomorphological analysis demonstrated that the reproductive tract of all goose breeds developed in both age- and breed-dependent manners, and the left and right testis developed asymmetrically throughout posthatch development. The tenth week posthatch was a critical developmental stage for all goose ganders, because both the testicular and external genital histomorphological parameters significantly changed before and after this period. During the first 10 wk posthatch, the weight, organ index, or size of male reproductive organs developed more rapidly in SW than in LD, and so were the testicular parenchymal-to-interstitial ratio and the external genital lymphatic lumen diameter. However, the testicular seminiferous epithelium thickness, seminiferous tubule diameter, and Leydig cell number, as well as the external genital keratinized epithelium thickness were significantly higher in LD than in SW at 10 wk of age. Through comparative transcriptomics analysis and RT-qPCR validation, several pathways related to germ and somatic cell function, organ remodeling, and energy metabolism were thought to be responsible for the developmental variations in the early testicular development between Chinese and European domestic ganders, where 10 hub genes involved in the cell cycle, RNA polymerase II-dependent transcription, and mitotic cell division pathways might play essential roles. These data shed new light on the interbreed differences in the male goose reproductive tract development and the molecular mechanisms regulating male goose testicular functions and fertility.

Histological Characteristics of Follicles, Reproductive Hormones and Transcriptomic Analysis of White King Pigeon Illuminated with Red Light.

Red light (RL) has been observed to enhance egg production in pigeons, yet the underlying histological characteristics and molecular mechanisms remain less understood. This study included fifty-four pigeons to assess follicular histology, reproductive hormones, and ovarian transcriptomics on the third day of the laying interval under RL and white light (WL). The results showed that the granulosa cell layer was significantly thicker under RL (p < 0.05), whereas the theca cell and connective tissue layers showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). Higher plasma estradiol (E2) levels were recorded in the RL group (p < 0.05), as well as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), although progesterone (P4) levels were higher under WL (p < 0.05). Moreover, P4 concentrations in follicle yolk significantly decreased under RL (p < 0.01), with higher FSH and E2 levels in F1 yolk and similar increases in SF1 yolk (p < 0.01). Transcriptomic analysis revealed 4991 differentially expressed genes in the pigeon ovary. The protein-protein interaction network highlighted genes like HSD11B1, VEGFD, WNT6, SMAD6, and LGR5 as potential contributors to hierarchical follicle selection under RL. This research provides new insights into the molecular basis by which RL may promote hierarchical follicle selection and improve egg production in pigeons.

Dietary Pediastrum boryanum microalgal extract improves growth, enhances immunity, and regulates immune-related genes in Nile tilapia.

BACKGROUND: Identifying alternative sustainable feed sources with high nutritional values is crucial for the future of environmentally and socially responsible aquaculture. In this regard, microalgae have been proven to have positive effects on fish health, which overwhelmed our interest in this study. METHODS: Pediastrum boryanum (P. boryanum) was incorporated into Nile tilapia feed at concentrations of 0, 0.75, and 1.5 mg/kg, as control, PbExt0.75, and PbExt1.5 groups to assess its effects on growth and biochemical indices, oxidant/antioxidant activities, immune and stress-related gene expression, and intestinal morphology. RESULTS: After 8 weeks, fish fed P. boryanum supplemented feed exhibited significant increases in final weight, length, condition factor, body weight gain, and specific growth rate, while the spleen-somatic index (SSI) and hepatosomatic index (HSI) showed no significant differences compared to the control group. Dietary P. boryanum supplementation also enhanced IgM levels and lysozyme activity, along with no marked effect on markers of liver function enzymes (alanine aminotransferase/ALT and aspartate aminotransferase/AST) or protein status (total protein and albumin). Furthermore, P. boryanum addition increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH) enzymes, highlighting its antioxidant potential, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations showed no significant differences among the groups. Gene expression analysis revealed that tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) expression notably increased in groups fed P. boryanum containing feed, while no significant difference was observed in hepatic Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) mRNA expression. Histopathological examination revealed no adverse effects of P. boryanum supplementation on the liver, spleen, or intestinal tissues. Villous height and villous surface area were notably increased in the high P. boryanum supplementation group, suggesting improved intestinal integrity and nutrient absorption. CONCLUSION: Dietary P. boryanum supplementation can potentially improve growth performance, immune response, antioxidant status, and intestinal health of Nile tilapia, making it a promising candidate for sustainable aquaculture.

Histomorphological evaluation of thermal injury following palatoplasty performed with CO2 laser or LigaSure device in dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.

The elongated soft palate is an abnormality that characterizes most brachycephalic dogs and contributes to the brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Palatoplasty is routinely performed in brachycephalic dogs; several surgical techniques exist. The use of surgical instruments such as monopolar electrocoagulation, CO2 or diode laser, bipolar vessel sealing device and harmonic shears has become routine to reduce the operating time, the intraoperative risk of bleeding and the postoperative oedema. This prospective study aimed to compare the histomorphological effect of a CO2 laser and LigaSure device in palates of dogs undergoing palatoplasty. Twenty owned brachycephalic dogs were included, 10 palatoplasties were performed using CO2 laser and 10 using LigaSure™ device. The dogs were positioned in sternal recumbency. A transoral approach was performed: the elongated soft palate was grasped with Allis forceps and brought rostrally, the palatoplasty was performed using the tonsillar crypts as anatomical landmarks. Surgical specimens were routinely fixed in 10 % formalin. Two sections perpendicular to the surgical margins were trimmed from each sample, paraffin-embedded and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Tissue damage induced by the two types of surgical devices was graded (1-4, from minimal to severe) and the depth of thermal injury measured in µm on captured images (using an image analysis program - ImageJ). Mean values and standard deviations (SD) were calculated based on six measurements for each sample. The tissue damage was graded 3.7±0.48 in group LigaSure™ and 2.8±1 in group Laser. The mean depth of thermal injury was 874.94±184.92 µm in the LigaSure™ group and 451,76±137,86 µm in the Laser group. The comparison between the two groups showed significant lower grade and extension of thermal injury in the palate samples obtained with CO2 laser (p<0.05). Additionally, there is a lack of literature that correlates the histological changes with the clinical outcomes of the different palatoplasty methods in brachycephalic dogs. By comparing histological changes and clinical outcomes, we aim to provide valuable insights for optimizing the surgical approach for palatoplasty in brachycephalic dogs, ultimately improving postoperative outcomes for these patients.

Effects of graded levels of dietary microbial 6-phytase on performance, intestinal histomorphology, caecal microbial population and short-chain fatty acid composition of Lohmann white-classics.

1. This study was conducted to determine the effects of graded levels of phytase on the performance, egg quality and gut health of white laying hens.2. Treatments consisted of a negative control (NC) diet containing 0.14% available phosphorus (avP), positive control (PC) diet containing 0.35% avP provided via dicalcium phosphate (DCP) and DCP replaced in the PC by with three graded levels of phytase derived from Komagataella phaffii at 500 (PC-500), 750 (PC-750) and 1000 (PC-1000) FTU/kg which provided 0.176%, 0.188% and 0.200% of avP, respectively.3. Egg production, feed intake, feed conversion ratio and jejunal morphometry were negatively affected in NC-fed birds (p < 0.05). Considering the whole period, birds fed a diet supplemented with graded levels of phytase shared the same egg production and feed intake levels with PC birds (p < 0.05). Feed conversion ratio was significantly lowered by 4.9%, 1.6% and 7.6% in hens fed on diets PC-500, PC-750 and PC-1000, respectively compared to those fed the PC (p < 0.05).4. Neither of the dietary treatments affected cracked eggs, dirty eggs, eggshell breaking strength and eggshell thickness. Dietary supplementation of phytase significantly increased villus surface area by 15%, 36% and 40% in PC-500, PC-750 and PC-1000 birds, respectively compared to PC (p < 0.05).5. A significant increase in lactobacillus count was observed in line with increasing the level of phytase (p < 0.05). Dietary treatments had no effect on the caecal coliform or aerobic populations. Furthermore, phytase supplementation significantly increased the concentrations of total caecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA; p < 0.01).6. In conclusion, along with improving performance parameters, the inclusion of phytase in laying hen diets can ameliorate intestinal morphology and stimulate caecal microflora and increase SCFA concentrations.

Bone microstructure as an indicator of digging ability in moles (Talpidae, Eulipotyphla).

Talpid moles (Talpidae, Eulipotyphla) are mammals highly specialised in burrowing using their forelimbs. Fossoriality has allowed moles to expand their ecological niche by enabling access to subterranean resources and spaces. This specialisation in burrowing has led to adaptations in the forelimb bones of moles for humeral rotation digging, a distinctive strategy unparalleled among other diggers. While bone robustness has been examined in moles through external morphology, the adaptation of bone microstructure to digging strategy remains unclear. Based on two assumptions, (1) the humerus of moles is subjected to a torsional load due to humeral rotation digging, and (2) the magnitude of torsional load correlates with the compactness of the substrate in which the individuals can dig, we hypothesised that humeral rotation digging influences bone microstructure. Comparative analyses of transverse sections from the humeri and femora of three mole species (Mogera imaizumii, Mogera wogura and Urotrichus talpoides; Talpidae) and an outgroup eulipotyphlan (Suncus murinus; Soricidae) revealed that (1) vascular canals distributed in the humeri of moles align more predominantly circumferential along the bone walls, indicating an adaptation to the torsion generated by humeral rotation digging, and (2) the laminarity of vascular canals, particularly in Mogera species compared with Urotrichus, potentially reflects differences in the magnitude of load due to substrate compactness during digging. The aligned vascular canals are distinctive traits not observed in mammals employing other digging strategies. This suggests that vascular canal laminarity can be an indicator of not only humeral rotation digging in fossorial animals, but also the variation of eco-spaces in talpid species.

Changes in Physiopathological Markers in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 Skeletal Muscle: A 3-Year Follow-up Study.

Background: Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a slowly progressive disease caused by abnormal CTG repetitions on the dystrophia myotonica protein kinase (DMPK) gene. Long mRNA from CTG repetitions stabilizes in nuclear foci and sequester muscleblind-like splicing regulator 1 (MBNL1). Cardinal signs of DM1 include muscle wasting and weakness. The impacts of DM1 progression on skeletal muscle are under-researched. Objective: Identifying physiopathological markers related to maximal strength loss over time in DM1. Methods: Twenty-two individuals with DM1 participated in two maximal isometric muscle strength (MIMS) evaluations of their knee extensors and two vastus lateralis muscle biopsies, 3 years apart. Muscle fiber typing, size (including minimal Feret's diameter [MFD] and atrophy/hypertrophy factors [AF/HF]), and nuclear foci and MBNL1 colocalization (foci/MBNL1+) were evaluated. Immunoblotting was used to measure glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3ß), p62, LC3BI, LC3BII, and oxidative phosphorylation proteins. Results: There are significant correlations between the fold changes of MIMS with type 1 fiber MFD (ρ= 0.483) and AF (ρ= -0.514). Regression analysis shows that baseline percentage of foci/MBNL1+ nuclei and strength training explain 44.1% of foci/MBNL1+ nuclei percentage variation over time. There are fair to excellent correlations between the fold changes of MIMS and GSK3ß (ρ= 0.327), p62 (ρ= 0.473), LC3BI (ρ= 0.518), LC3BII (ρ= -0.391) and LC3BII/LC3BI (ρ= -0.773). Conclusion: Type 1 MFD decrease and AF increase are correlated with MIMS loss. There seems to be a plateau effect in foci/MBNL1+ nuclei accumulation and strength training helps decrease this accumulation. Autophagy marker LC3BII/LC3BI ratio has a good biomarker potential of MIMS loss, but more investigations are needed.

Systematic investigation on the pharmaceutical components and mechanism of the treatment against zebrafish enteritis by Sporisorium reilianum f. sp. reilianum based on histomorphology and pathology.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Sporisorium reilianum f. sp. reilianum (SSR) is a fungus isolated from a medicinal plant. Recorded in the "Compilation of National Chinese Herbal Medicine" and "Compendium of Materia Medica," it was used for preventing and treating intestinal diseases, enhancing immune function, etc. In this study, we investigated the chemical composition and bioactivity of SSR. Network pharmacology is utilized for predictive analysis and targeting pathway studies of anti-inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mechanisms. Pharmacological activity against enteritis is evaluated using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as model animals. AIM OF THE STUDY: To reveal the treatment of IBD by SSR used as traditional medicine and food, based on molecular biology identification of SSR firstly, and the pharmaceutical components & its toxicities, biological activity & mechanism of SSR were explored. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using chromatography and zebrafish IBD model induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS), nine compounds were first identified by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The toxicity of ethanol crude extract and monomers from SSR were evaluated by evaluating the phenotypic characteristics of zebrafish embryos and larvae, histomorphology and pathology of the zebrafish model guided by network pharmacology were conducted. RESULTS: The zebrafish embryo development did not show toxicity. The molecular docking and enrichment pathway results predicted that metabolites 3 & 4 (N-trans- feruloyl-3-methoxytyramine & N-cis-feruloyl-3-methoxytyramine) and 7 & 8 (4-N- trans-p-coumaroyltyramine & 4-N-cis--p-coumaroyltyramine) have anti-enteritis activities. This paper lays an experimental foundation for developing new drugs and functional foods.

Dietary Spirulina effects in Eimeria-challenged broiler chickens: growth performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, serum biomarkers, and gene expression.

This study investigated the growth performance, nutrient utilization, and intestinal health responses of Eimeria-challenged broiler chickens to dietary Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). On day 1, birds were assigned to 2 diets supplemented with Spirulina (0 or 5 g/kg) in a randomized complete block design. The birds within each diet were divided into 2 Eimeria-challenge groups (challenge or no-challenge) and that resulted in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with 2 levels each of Spirulina and challenge on day 14. On day 15, the birds in the challenge or no-challenge groups were orally gavaged with a solution containing Eimeria oocysts or 1% PBS, respectively. Samples were collected on days 21 and 26 (6- and 11-d post-infection; dpi). Data collected from days 1 to 26 were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Birds that were fed Spirulina-supplemented diets had increased (P < 0.05) BW gain, gain-to-feed ratio, and total tract retention nitrogen from days 14 to 21. The ileal villus perimeter and area, serum catalase, HMOX1 and SOD1 jejunal abundance were all increased (P < 0.05) in birds fed Spirulina-supplemented diets on day 21 (6 dpi). However, there was no effect on bone ash or oocyst count. From days 21 to 26, there was a tendency (P = 0.059) for a Spirulina × Challenge interaction on the BW gain of birds. Moreover, dietary Spirulina addition increased (P < 0.05) serum catalase, total antioxidant capacity, ileal villus perimeter, tibia bone ash, and the relative mRNA expression of HMOX1, SOD1, claudin 1, and TNFα in the jejunal mucosa of birds on day 26 (11 dpi). On both 6 and 11 dpi, the Eimeria challenge negatively (P < 0.05) impacted growth performance, gut morphology, and the relative mRNA expression of genes. Overall, assessing the impact of Spirulina in broilers revealed its positive antioxidant, immune-modulating, and health benefits. However, its dietary addition did not completely reverse the Eimeria-induced effects in these birds. Ultimately, this study outlines the positive properties of dietary Spirulina beyond its use in the diet of healthy broiler chickens.

In recent years, nutritional strategies for managing coccidiosis in broiler chickens have focused on feed additives, amino acids, and minerals. Spirulina, a cyanobacterium, is a feed additive rich in bioactive compounds like phycocyanin, polysaccharides, B vitamins, minerals, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and carotenoids. These compounds confer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties to Spirulina. While Spirulina has been extensively explored as a health supplement in humans, its dietary application in broiler chickens and pigs is now gaining attention. Additionally, its potential to combat the Eimeria-induced effects on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and health in birds has not been adequately addressed. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Spirulina on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, immune response, bone mineral deposition, and serum phosphorus in Eimeria-challenged broiler chickens. Results from this study showed that the positive properties of dietary Spirulina extend beyond its use in the diet of healthy broiler chickens as it reduced some of the negative impact of an Eimeria infection in birds.

Incorporation of yeast treated Dialium bark meal on growth performance, blood indices and intestinal physiology of broilers.

Incorporation of beneficial microbes to enhance the nutritive value of non-traditional feed additives is presently being promoted as a cost-effective way of increasing animal performance. Therefore, this trial investigated the impact of the incorporation of Dialium bark meal treated with yeast (TS) into broiler diets on intestinal histology, growth, and blood characteristics. One hundred and eighty days old Ross 308 broiler chickens were assigned to three treatments with five replications of 12 birds in a complete randomized design. The treatments were designed as (TS0: control) which is the (starter and finisher) diets without TS additive; whereas the TS0.5 and TS1.0 diets have TS additive at 0.5 and 1.5 g kg-1, respectively. The feeding trial lasted for 56 days comprising (28 days each for starter and finisher phases). Feed intake, body weight gains (BWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were determined at the end of the starter and finisher phases. Blood and intestinal histomorphological indices were determined at the end of the finisher phase. Results indicate that TS contains 8.15 % crude protein, 29.84 % crude fibre, and 11.61 % ash. In addition, starter broilers in the TS0.5 and TS1.0 groups gained less weight and had a higher feed intake than those in the TS0 group. Broilers (29-56 d) in the TS0.5 and TS1.0 groups recorded better (p < 0.05) final live weight (FLW), BWG, and FCR than those in the TS0 group. Feed intake responded linearly to increasing TS levels in the diet during the finisher production phase. Broilers in group TS1.0 tended (p < 0.05) to have higher haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration compared to those in group TS0. Conversely, there were no treatment effects (p > 0.05) on mean cell volume, white blood cells, lymphocytes, heterophils, and serum biochemical variables. Broilers on TS diets had significantly improved histoarchitecture of the jejunum in broilers. In conclusion, results suggest that Dialium bark meal treated (TS) with dried active yeast is high in fibre and ash, and its addition at 0.5 and 1.0 g kg-1 feed improved body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, aspects of the blood characteristics and intestinal histomorphology of the jejunum of broilers at the finisher production phase. It is recommended that TS can be added to broiler finisher diet up to 1.0 g kg-1 feed for best growth performance, intestinal histomorphological, and blood characteristics.

Salivary duct carcinoma with squamous differentiation: histomorphological and immunophenotypical analysis of six cases.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is an aggressive salivary malignancy with multiple morphological subtypes. Primary salivary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) requires exclusion of high-grade salivary malignancies and metastatic disease and is considered exceptionally rare. We report six cases of SDC with resemblance to SCC on account of variable, but often extensive, squamous differentiation. METHODS AND RESULTS: A retrospective review (2009-2023) at two institutions of SDC with histological and immunophenotypical evidence of squamous differentiation identified six cases. Medical charts and available glass slides were reviewed. There were five males and one female with a median age of 63 years, with tumours involving the parotid (five of six) and submandibular (one of six) glands. All six tumours showed a conventional SDC component comprising < 5-90% of viable tumour. Squamous differentiation comprised 10-95%+ (> 75% in three of six cases) of total viable tumour, and demonstrated CK5/6, p63 and/or p40 immunoexpression in all cases. A sarcomatoid component, comprising 10-60% of viable tumour, was present in three of six (50%) cases. All tumours were androgen receptor (AR)-positive, but only two of six (33.3%) retained AR immunoreactivity in the squamous component. Metastatic SDC to regional lymph nodes exhibited exclusive squamous differentiation in two of six (33.3%) cases. CONCLUSION: Squamous differentiation, histologically and immunophenotypically, can be extensive in SDC. AR expression may be lost in the squamous component and metastases may demonstrate only squamous differentiation. These findings cast further doubt on the existence of primary salivary SCC. SDC should be considered whenever encountering a carcinoma with squamous differentiation in major salivary glands or within cervical lymph nodes in the setting of a salivary mass.

Betaine Attenuates The Expression of Vasoactive Mediators and Histological Alterations Associated with Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome in Rats.

OBJECTIVE: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is one female reproductive disorder that can occur after administration of injectable hormonal drugs to stimulate ovulation. Betaine (BET) is an intracellular biomolecule with anti-inflammatory and tissue protective effects. There is no information about its effects in an experimental model of OHSS. The current study aims to investigate the possible effects of BET on abnormal expressions of vasoconstrictor proteins and ovarian histological changes in an experimental OHSS rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental study, 30 adult female rats (two months old) were randomly divided into six groups (n=5 per group): i. Control, ii. OHSS [10 IU sc equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) for 4 days followed by 30 IU sc human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the fifth day], iii. OHSS+BET (200 mg/kg/day, orally for seven days), iv. OHSS+Cabergoline (CAB, 100 mg/kg/day, orally for six days), v. BET, and vi. CAB. Expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and blood levels of oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) were measured at the end of the experiment. The ovaries were studied for histomorphological changes. RESULTS: Induction of OHSS altered tissue histology, including an increase in the number of corpora lutea and atretic follicles, and decreased the number of follicular reserves. In this group, we observed increased expressions of the VEGF and COX-2 proteins, and increased serum E2 and P4 levels. Administration of CAB and BET significantly attenuated all molecular and histological alterations observed in the OHSS animals. CONCLUSION: Our findings, for first time, indicate the beneficial effects of BET to reduce OHSS complications in patients by reducing the expressions of vasoactive proteins and improving changes to the ovarian tissues. The findings are similar to CAB and can be a new avenue for future research on BET.

Preliminary Study on the Pathogenic Mechanism of Jujube Flower Disease in Honeybees (Apis mellifera ligustica) Based on Midgut Transcriptomics.

Honeybees are prone to poisoning, also known as jujube flower disease, after collecting nectar from jujube flowers, resulting in the tumultuous demise of foragers. The prevalence of jujube flower disease has become one of the main factors affecting the development of the jujube and beekeeping industries in Northern China. However, the pathogenic mechanisms underlying jujube flower disease in honeybees are poorly understood. Herein, we first conducted morphological observations of the midgut using HE-staining and found that jujube flower disease-affected honeybees displayed midgut damage with peritrophic membrane detachment. Jujube flower disease was found to increase the activity of chitinase and carboxylesterase (CarE) and decrease the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and the content of CYP450 in the honeybee midgut. Transcriptomic data identified 119 differentially expressed genes in the midgut of diseased and healthy honeybees, including CYP6a13, CYP6a17, CYP304a1, CYP6a14, AADC, and AGXT2, which are associated with oxidoreductase activity and vitamin binding. In summary, collecting jujube flower nectar could reduce antioxidant and detoxification capacities of the honeybee midgut and, in more severe cases, damage the intestinal structure, suggesting that intestinal damage might be the main cause of honeybee death due to jujube nectar. This study provides new insights into the pathogenesis of jujube flower disease in honeybees.

[Plasmacytoid urothelial carcinoma: a rare cause of localized lymphedema]. / Plasmazytoides Urothelkarzinom: eine seltene Ursache des lokalisierten Lymphödems.

Localized lymphedema of the genital region is a rare medical condition. It is named primary lymphedema if caused by a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system. Secondary lymphedemas might be induced by exogenous damage to lymphatic vessels as a result of surgical interventions, obesity, filariasis, radiotherapy or malignancy. We report a case of localized lymphedema of the genial region for which a previously unknown urothelial carcinoma turned out to be the underlying cause.