Investigating the relationship between heat load and shade seeking behaviour in dairy buffaloes.

The study presented in this Research Communication aimed to investigate the relationship between physiological responses, body surface temperature and shade-seeking behaviour in Nili Ravi dairy buffaloes during summer months. We enrolled 60 buffaloes, and each animal was observed for three consecutive days starting before sunrise until they moved towards the shade structures. A repeated measures ANOVA was employed to assess the changes in physiological parameters and body surface temperature between the early morning and the occurrence of shade-seeking behaviour. The average temperature humidity index and heat load index during the behavioural monitoring period (0400 to 1200 h) were 81.3 ± 6.5 and 92.9 ± 17, respectively (mean ± sd). There was no significant difference in core body temperature between sunrise and the time of shade-seeking event. However, the buffaloes had a slightly higher respiration rate at the time of shade-seeking (19.2 vs. 22.4 breaths/min). In addition, body surface temperature, measured at the flank region, shoulder, base of the ear and forehead was significantly higher at the occurrence of shade-seeking behaviour compared to the early morning. On average, the buffaloes sought shade when the surface temperature was 2°C higher than the temperature recorded before sunrise. Overall, the current findings suggest that body surface temperature, rather than core body temperature was strongly associated with shade-seeking behaviour in dairy buffaloes. These findings could be useful in developing strategies to mitigate the effects of heat stress in dairy buffalo herds and thereby improve animal welfare.

Salicylic Acid and Gemma-Aminobutyric Acid Mediated Regulation of Growth, Metabolites, Antioxidant Defense System and Nutrient Uptake in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Under Arsenic Stress.

Background: Arsenic (As) is a highly toxic and carcinogenic pollutant commonly found in soil and water, posing significant risks to human health and plant growth. Objective: The objectives of this study to evaluate morphological, biochemical, and physiological markers, as well as ion homeostasis, to alleviate the toxic effects of As in sunflowers through the exogenous application of salicylic acid (SA), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and their combination. Methods: A pot experiment was conducted using two sunflower genotypes, FH-779 and FH-773, subjected to As stress (60 mg kg-1) to evaluate the effects of SA at 100 mg L-1, GABA at 200 mg L-1, and their combination on growth and related physiological and biochemical attributes under As stress. Results: The study revealed that As toxicity had a detrimental effect on various growth parameters, chlorophyll pigments, relative water content, total proteins, and nutrient uptake in sunflower plants. It also led to increased oxidative stress, as indicated by higher levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), along with As accumulation in the roots and leaves. However, the application of SA and GABA protected against As-induced damage by enhancing the enzymatic antioxidant defense system. This was achieved through the activation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) activities, as well as an increase in osmolytes. They also improved nutrient acquisition and plant growth under As toxicity. Conclusions: We investigated the regulatory roles of SA and GABA in mitigating arsenic-induced phytotoxic effects on sunflower. Our results revealed a significant interaction between SA and GABA in regulating growth, photosynthesis, metabolites, antioxidant defense systems, and nutrient uptake in sunflower under As stress. These findings provide valuable insights into plant defense mechanisms and strategies to enhance stress tolerance in contaminated environments. In the future, SA and GABA could be valuable tools for managing stress in other important crops facing abiotic stress conditions.

The influence of body mass index on patient-reported outcome measures following total hip arthroplasty: a retrospective study of 3,903 Cases.

BACKGROUND: The influence of obesity on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following total hip arthroplasty (THA) is currently controversial. This study aimed to compare PROM scores for pain, functional status, and global physical/mental health based on body mass index (BMI) classification. METHODS: Primary, elective THA procedures at a single institution between 2018 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed, and patients were stratified into four groups based on BMI: normal weight (18.5-24.99 kg/m2), overweight (25-29.99 kg/m2), obese (30-39.99 kg/m2), and morbidly obese (> 40 kg/m2). Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) and Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (HOOS, JR) scores were collected. Preoperative, postoperative, and pre/post- changes (pre/post-Δ) in scores were compared between groups. Multiple linear regression was used to assess for confounders. RESULTS: We analyzed 3,404 patients undergoing 3,903 THAs, including 919 (23.5%) normal weight, 1,374 (35.2%) overweight, 1,356 (35.2%) obese, and 254 (6.5%) morbidly obese cases. HOOS, JR scores were worse preoperatively and postoperatively for higher BMI classes, however HOOS, JR pre/post-Δ was comparable between groups. All PROMIS measures were worse preoperatively and postoperatively in higher BMI classes, though pre/post-Δ were comparable for all groups. Clinically significant improvements for all BMI classes were observed in all PROM metrics except PROMIS mental health. Regression analysis demonstrated that obesity, but not morbid obesity, was independently associated with greater improvement in HOOS, JR. CONCLUSIONS: Obese patients undergoing THA achieve lower absolute scores for pain, function, and self-perceived health, despite achieving comparable relative improvements in pain and function with surgery. Denying THA based on BMI restricts patients from clinically beneficial improvements comparable to those of non-obese patients, though morbidly obese patients may benefit from additional weight loss to achieve maximal functional improvement.

Effects of supplementation of different selenium sources on lipid profile, selenium, and vitamin E concentration of yolk.

Egg preference as a source of protein also provides beneficial fatty acids, vital for human consumption. However, rich in lipid products are prone to oxidative damage. The study aims to determine the effect of supplementing biogenic selenium (Se) from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, ADS18 (ADS18) in laying hens' diet on yolk lipid oxidation status (MDA), beta-carotene (ß-carotene) content, cholesterol, fatty acids, Se, and vitamin E (VE) level. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) laying hens of Lohmann Brown strains aged 50 weeks, weighing 1500 to 2000 g were reared individually in A-shape two-tier stainless-steel cages sized 30 cm x 50 cm x 40 cm (width, depth height). The hens were randomly allotted into four treatments with six replications in a complete randomised design for the period of 12 weeks. The basal diet contains 100 mg/kg VE. Treatment diets consist of basal diet as control, SS containing 0.3 mg/kg sodium selenite, Se-yeast containing 0.3 mg/kg selenised yeast, and VADS18 containing 0.3 mg/kg of ADS18. Forty-eight eggs were collected and freeze-dried biweekly for analysis. The results of the present study showed that hens supplemented ADS18 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower MDA and cholesterol levels while their egg yolks had higher levels of Se and mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). The control group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) contents than the VE and dietary Se-supplemented groups, while the ADS18 group had the lowest SFA contents. Conversely, in comparison to the inorganic and control groups, the VE content of the egg yolk was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in organic Se-supplemented (Se-yeast and VADS18) groups. Hens with SS supplementation had significantly (P < 0.05) higher egg yolk ß-carotene content. When compared to other treatment groups, the control group had higher (P < 0.05) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content. The ADS18 is therefore deemed comparable to other Se sources. To prevent Se toxicity, however, a better understanding of the levels of ADS18 incorporation in poultry diets is required.

Clinical management and outcome of head and neck paragangliomas (HNPGLs): A single centre retrospective study.

CONTEXT: Head and neck paragangliomas (HNPGLs) are rare, usually benign, slow-growing tumours arising from neural crest-derived tissue. Definitive management pathways for HNPGLs have yet to be clearly defined. OBJECTIVE: To review our experience of the clinical features and management of these tumours and to analyse outcomes of different treatment modalities. METHODS: Demographic and clinical data were obtained from The Northern Ireland Electronic Care Record (NIECR) as well from a prospectively maintained HNPGL database between January 2011 through December 2023. RESULTS: There were 87 patients; 50 females: 37 males with a mean age of 52.3 ± 14.2 years old (range 17-91 years old). 58.6% (n = 51) of patients had carotid body tumours, 25.2% (n = 22) glomus vagal tumours, 6.8% (n = 6) tumours in the middle ear, 2.2% (n = 2) in the parapharyngeal space and 1.1% (n = 1) in the sphenoid sinus. 5.7% (n = 5) of patients had multifocal disease. The mean tumour size at presentation was 3.2 ± 1.4 cm (range 0.5-6.9 cm). Pathogenic SDHD mutations were identified in 41.3% (n = 36), SDHB in 12.6% (n = 11), SDHC in 2.2% (n = 2) and SDHA in 1.1% (n = 1) of the patients. Overall treatment modalities included surgery alone in 51.7% (n = 45) of patients, radiotherapy in 14.9% (n = 13), observation in 28.7% (n = 25), and somatostatin analogue therapy with octreotide in 4.5% (n = 4) of patients. Factors associated with a significantly higher risk of recurrence included age over 60 years (p = .04), tumour size exceeding 2 cm (p = .03), positive SDHx variants (p = .01), and vagal and jugular tumours (p = .04). CONCLUSION: The majority of our patients underwent initial surgical intervention and achieved disease stability. Our results suggest that carefully selected asymptomatic or medically unfit patients can be safely observed provided lifelong surveillance is maintained. We advocate for the establishment of a UK and Ireland national HNPGL registry, to delineate optimal management strategies for these rare tumours and improve long term outcomes.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Polyradiculopathy: An Important "AIDS-Defining" Illness Complication.

We present a case of cytomegalovirus (CMV) polyradiculopathy which occurred concomitantly with CMV encephalitis and CMV retinitis in a patient with HIV/AIDS. Our patient is a 43-year-old male who was admitted with progressive changes in mentation. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed elevated white blood cell (WBC), low glucose, and elevated protein. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) panel of CSF was positive for CMV, and other microbiology results were negative. Extensive bilateral CMV retinitis was also noted. The patient was started on ganciclovir and foscarnet, and two weeks after, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) was initiated using Truvada and dolutegravir. The hospital course was complicated by urinary retention and bilateral lower extremity weakness with hypotonia, severe hyperalgesia, and allodynia. An electromyography (EMG) study demonstrated bilateral lumbosacral root dysfunction at L2-S1 with active neurologic changes indicating significant axon loss. Neurology was consulted, and the patient was diagnosed with CMV-induced polyradiculopathy. After three months of treatment, no improvement was noted on lower limbs as he continued with intravenous (IV) ganciclovir. The therapeutic response to induction therapy was discordant as improvement of encephalitis was noted, but not on polyradiculopathy after 180 days of treatment. This highlights the lack of data and treatment guidelines for established CMV polyradiculopathy and not only the necessity for prolonged treatment of CMV polyradiculopathy but also the difficulty in recovery of function once it has developed.

Hemopatch® as a primary dural sealant in cranial neurosurgery: Technical note and a retrospective study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the effectiveness and safety of Hemopatch® as a primary dural sealant in preventing CSF leakage following cranial surgery. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks occur in cranial operations and are associated with significant patient burden and expense. The use of Hemopatch® as a dural sealant in cranial neurosurgical procedures is described and analyzed in this study. METHODS: Data were retrospectively collected from all patients who underwent a craniotomy for various neurosurgical indications where Hemopatch® was used as the primary dural sealant between June 2017 and June 2022. Infection and CSF leak were the main indicators evaluated after surgery. RESULTS: A total of 119 consecutive patients met our inclusion criteria. The median was age 41.5 years, and 52.5% were female. The mean follow-up period was 2.3 years (7 months to 6 years). There were 110 (92.44%) supratentorial and 9 (7.56%) infratentorial craniotomies. Postoperative CSF leak was reported in 2 patients (1.68%), one in each cohort. Postoperative infection occurred in one patient (0.84%). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that using Hemopatch® as a dural sealant in cranial surgery is effective and safe. After supra-/infratentorial craniotomies, the rate of postoperative adverse events in our sample was within the range of known surgical revision rates. Future randomized clinical studies are required to confirm our encouraging findings.

Racetrack Ring Resonator-Based on Hybrid Plasmonic Waveguide for Refractive Index Sensing.

In this study, a comprehensive numerical analysis is conducted on a hybrid plasmonic waveguide (HPWG)-based racetrack ring resonator (RTRR) structure, tailored specifically for refractive index sensing applications. The sensor design optimization yields remarkable results, achieving a sensitivity of 275.7 nm/RIU. Subsequently, the boundaries of sensor performance are pushed even further by integrating a subwavelength grating (SWG) structure into the racetrack configuration, thereby augmenting the light-matter interaction. Of particular note is the pivotal role played by the length of the SWG segment in enhancing device sensitivity. It is observed that a significant sensitivity enhancement can be obtained, with values escalating from 377.1 nm/RIU to 477.7 nm/RIU as the SWG segment length increases from 5 µm to 10 µm, respectively. This investigation underscores the immense potential of HPWG in tandem with SWG for notably enhancing the sensitivity of photonic sensors. These findings not only advance the understanding of these structures but also pave the way for the development of highly efficient sensing devices with unprecedented performance capabilities.

A Missense Variant in HACE1 Is Associated with Intellectual Disability, Epilepsy, Spasticity, and Psychomotor Impairment in a Pakistani Kindred.

Intellectual disability (ID), which affects around 2% to 3% of the population, accounts for 0.63% of the overall prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). ID is characterized by limitations in a person's intellectual and adaptive functioning, and is caused by pathogenic variants in more than 1000 genes. Here, we report a rare missense variant (c.350T>C; p.(Leu117Ser)) in HACE1 segregating with NDD syndrome with clinical features including ID, epilepsy, spasticity, global developmental delay, and psychomotor impairment in two siblings of a consanguineous Pakistani kindred. HACE1 encodes a HECT domain and ankyrin repeat containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (HACE1), which is involved in protein ubiquitination, localization, and cell division. HACE1 is also predicted to interact with several proteins that have been previously implicated in the ID phenotype in humans. The p.(Leu117Ser) variant replaces an evolutionarily conserved residue of HACE1 and is predicted to be deleterious by various in silico algorithms. Previously, eleven protein truncating variants of HACE1 have been reported in individuals with NDD. However, to our knowledge, p.(Leu117Ser) is the second missense variant in HACE1 found in an individual with NDD.

Zinc oxide application alleviates arsenic-mediated oxidative stress via physio-biochemical mechanism in rice.

Arsenic (As) pollution in cultivated soils poses a significant risk to the sustainable growth of agriculture and jeopardizes food security. However, the mechanisms underlying how zinc (Zn) regulates the toxic effects induced by As in plants remain poorly understood. Hence, this study aimed to explore the potential of ZnO as an effective and environmentally friendly amendment to alleviate As toxicity in rice, thereby addressing the significant risk posed by As pollution in cultivated soils. Through a hydroponic experiment, the study assessed the mitigating effects of different ZnO dosages (Zn5, 5 mg L-1; Zn15, 15 mg L-1; Zn30, 30 mg L-1) on rice seedlings exposed to varying levels of As stress (As0, 0 µM L-1; As25, 25 µM L-1). The findings of the study demonstrate significant improvements in plant height and biomass (shoot and root), with a notable increase of 16-40% observed in the Zn15 treatment, and an even more substantial enhancement of 29-53% observed in the Zn30 treatment under As stress, compared to respective control treatment. Furthermore, in the Zn30 treatment, the shoot and root As contents substantially reduced by 47% and 63%, respectively, relative to the control treatment. The elevated Zn contents in shoots and roots enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (POD, SOD, and CAT), and decreased MDA contents (13-25%) and H2O2 contents (11-27%), indicating the mitigation of oxidative stress. Moreover, the expression of antioxidant-related genes, OsSOD-Cu/Zn, OsCATA, OsCATB, and OsAPX1 was reduced when rice seedlings were exposed to As stress and significantly enhanced after Zn addition. Overall, the research suggests that ZnO application could effectively mitigate As uptake and toxicity in rice plants cultivated in As-contaminated soils, offering potential solutions for sustainable agriculture and food security.

Insect meal in aquafeeds: A sustainable path to enhanced mucosal immunity in fish.

The mucosal surfaces of fish, including their intestines, gills, and skin, are constantly exposed to various environmental threats, such as water quality fluctuations, pollutants, and pathogens. However, various cells and microbiota closely associated with these surfaces work in tandem to create a functional protective barrier against these conditions. Recent research has shown that incorporating specific feed ingredients into fish diets can significantly boost their mucosal and general immune response. Among the various ingredients being investigated, insect meal has emerged as one of the most promising options, owing to its high protein content and immunomodulatory properties. By positively influencing the structure and function of mucosal surfaces, insect meal (IM) has the potential to enhance the overall immune status of fish. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the potential benefits of incorporating IM into aquafeed as a feed ingredient for augmenting the mucosal immune response of fish.

Metal implant allergy: A retrospective cohort analysis at a university allergy practice.

Background: Concern of metal sensitization in pre- and postsurgical evaluation is growing, with the recent guidelines remaining the criterion standard for consideration of patch testing. Information remains scarce on surgical screening in the groups of patients who reported a history of metal sensitivity versus those with no reported history. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the utility of patch testing in surgical candidates based on reported metal allergy history. The secondary objective was to evaluate the utility and outcomes in postsurgical patch testing. Methods: Nine hundred and thirty-one patient charts of patients with the diagnosis of "contact dermatitis" who underwent an evaluation at a single allergy clinic site between January 2013 and December 2022 were identified and reviewed as part of a retrospective chart review study. Patients were included in subgroups based on the time of patch testing and history of reported metal allergy. Results: In all, 67 patients underwent patch testing, 10 (14.9%) of whom were surgical candidates without a history of metal sensitivity, 31 (46.2%) of whom were surgical candidates with a history of metal sensitivity, and 26 (38.8%) of whom were postsurgical patients. Twenty-nine (43.3%) of patients had positive patch testing results, with only one (10%) in the presurgical group, 17 (54.8%) in the presurgical with a history of metal sensitivity, and 11 (42.3%) in the postsurgical group. Zero patients in our cohort without metal sensitivity who were undergoing the Nuss procedure had positive reactions on patch testing, whereas two of four (50%) with reported metal sensitivity who were undergoing the Nuss procedure had positive relevant metal reactions. Conclusion: Ambiguity in the utility of patch testing for surgical decision making remains, despite common utilization. Recent guidelines along with coordination of care among the surgeon, allergist, and patient remains the criterion standard of care.

Transmission dynamics, complications and mitigation strategies of the current mpox outbreak: A comprehensive review with bibliometric study.

As the mankind counters the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), it simultaneously witnesses the emergence of mpox virus (MPXV) that signals at global spread and could potentially lead to another pandemic. Although MPXV has existed for more than 50 years now with most of the human cases being reported from the endemic West and Central African regions, the disease is recently being reported in non-endemic regions too that affect more than 50 countries. Controlling the spread of MPXV is important due to its potential danger of a global spread, causing severe morbidity and mortality. The article highlights the transmission dynamics, zoonosis potential, complication and mitigation strategies for MPXV infection, and concludes with suggested 'one health' approach for better management, control and prevention. Bibliometric analyses of the data extend the understanding and provide leads on the research trends, the global spread, and the need to revamp the critical research and healthcare interventions. Globally published mpox-related literature does not align well with endemic areas/regions of occurrence which should ideally have been the scenario. Such demographic and geographic gaps between the location of the research work and the endemic epicentres of the disease need to be bridged for greater and effective translation of the research outputs to pubic healthcare systems, it is suggested.

Comparative anatomy of the caudate nucleus in canids and felids: Associations with brain size, curvature, cross-sectional properties, and behavioral ecology.

The evolutionary history of canids and felids is marked by a deep time separation that has uniquely shaped their behavior and phenotype toward refined predatory abilities. The caudate nucleus is a subcortical brain structure associated with both motor control and cognitive, emotional, and executive functions. We used a combination of three-dimensional imaging, allometric scaling, and structural analyses to compare the size and shape characteristics of the caudate nucleus. The sample consisted of MRI scan data obtained from six canid species (Canis lupus lupus, Canis latrans, Chrysocyon brachyurus, Lycaon pictus, Vulpes vulpes, Vulpes zerda), two canid subspecies (Canis lupus familiaris, Canis lupus dingo), as well as three felids (Panthera tigris, Panthera uncia, Felis silvestris catus). Results revealed marked conservation in the scaling and shape attributes of the caudate nucleus across species, with only slight deviations. We hypothesize that observed differences in caudate nucleus size and structure for the domestic canids are reflective of enhanced cognitive and emotional pathways that possibly emerged during domestication.

Trends, safety, and efficacy of wearable male sexual devices.

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of male sexual dysfunction (MSD) increases with age, with >50% of men aged >40 years reporting erectile dysfunction (ED). In recent years, wearable male sex devices (WMSDs) have been increasingly utilized by patients and recommended by sexual medicine clinicians. OBJECTIVES: This study seeks to investigate the safety and efficacy of products currently marketed for the treatment of MSD. METHODS: Available products for WMSDs were reviewed by analyzing product websites, forums, advertisements, and clinical recommendations. Qualitative comparisons were based on patient reviews, cost, and specific features. Investigatory evidence and Food and Drug Administration status were also reviewed. Additionally, Google Trends was used to determine the popularity of devices over time. RESULTS: Eight WMSDs for the treatment of MSD and enhancement of sexual pleasure were reviewed. Constriction bands, such as the Maintain Ring Loop, Eddie by Giddy, and Xialla, have shown significant benefits in clinical trials and were the most popular devices among patients. Smart devices can provide real-time feedback on erectile quality and/or sexual performance. Similar to the RigiScan, the Adam sensor provides feedback on erectile quality while monitoring changes in penile tumescence during sleep with additional analysis available through a mobile application. Neuromodulation devices such as the Morari Patch and vPatch/in2 Patch use electrical stimulation to delay ejaculation and improve sexual function. The FirmTech Performance Ring uses sensors to track the vital signs of erectile fitness with clinical trials ongoing. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this review describes the available investigatory evidence for a range of WMSDs and highlights the potential benefits and limitations of these devices in treating MSD and enhancing sexual pleasure. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these devices and to determine which ones may be the most suitable for individual patients.

Genome-wide association studies identifies genetic loci related to fatty acid and branched-chain amino acid metabolism and histone modifications under varying nitrogen treatments in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius).

Effective identification and usage of genetic variation are prerequisites for developing nutrient-efficient cultivars. A collection of 94 safflower (Carthamus tinctorius ) genotypes (G) was investigated for important morphological and photosynthetic traits at four nitrogen (N) treatments. We found significant variation for all the studied traits except chlorophyll b (chl b ) among safflower genotypes, nitrogen treatments and G×N interaction. The examined traits showed a 2.82-50.00% increase in response to N application. Biological yield (BY) reflected a significantly positive correlation with fresh shoot weight (FSW), root length (RL), fresh root weight (FRW) and number of leaves (NOL), while a significantly positive correlation was also observed among carotenoids (C), chlorophyll a (chl a ), chl b and total chlorophyll content (CT) under all treatments. Superior genotypes with respect to plant height (PH), FSW, NOL, RL, FRW and BY were clustered into Group 3, while genotypes with better mean performance regarding chl a , chl b C and CT were clustered into Group 2 as observed in principal component analysis. The identified eight best-performing genotypes could be useful to develop improved nitrogen efficient cultivars. Genome-wide association analysis resulted in 32 marker-trait associations (MTAs) under four treatments. Markers namely DArT-45481731 , DArT-17812864 , DArT-15670279 and DArT-45482737 were found consistent. Protein-protein interaction networks of loci associated with MTAs were related to fatty acid and branched-chain amino acid metabolism and histone modifications.

Mucosal barrier status in Atlantic salmon fed rapeseed oil and Schizochytrium oil partly or fully replacing fish oil through winter depression.

The study was designed to investigate the effects of replacing fish oil by algal oil and rapeseed oil on histomorphology indices of the intestine, skin and gill, mucosal barrier status and immune-related genes of mucin and antimicrobial peptide (AMP) genes in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). For these purposes, Atlantic salmon smolts were fed three different diets. The first was a control diet containing fish oil but no Schizochytrium oil. In the second diet, almost 50 % of the fish oil was replaced with algal oil, and in the third diet, fish oil was replaced entirely with algal oil. The algal oil contained mostly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and some eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). The study lasted for 49 days in freshwater (FW), after which some fish from each diet group were transferred to seawater (SW) for a 48-h challenge test at 33 ppt to test their ability to tolerate high salinity. Samples of skin, gills, and mid intestine [both distal (DI) and anterior (AI) portions of the mid intestine] were collected after the feeding trial in FW and after the SW-challenge test to assess the effects of the diets on the structure and immune functions of the mucosal surfaces. The results showed that the 50 % VMO (Veramaris® algal oil) dietary group had improved intestinal, skin, and gill structures. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the histomorphological parameters demonstrated a significant effect of the algal oil on the intestine, skin, and gills. In particular, the mucosal barrier function of the intestine, skin, and gills was enhanced in the VMO 50 % dietary group after the SW challenge, as evidenced by increased mucous cell density. Immunolabelling of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in the intestine (both DI and AI) revealed downregulation of the protein expression in the 50 % VMO group and a corresponding upregulation in the 100 % VMO group compared to 0 % VMO. The reactivity of HSP70 in the epithelial cells was higher after the SW challenge compared to the FW phase. Immune-related genes related to mucosal defense, such as mucin genes [muc2, muc5ac1 (DI), muc5ac1 (AI), muc5ac2, muc5b (skin), and muc5ac1 (gills)], and antimicrobial peptide genes [def3 (DI), def3 (AI), and cath1 (skin)] were significantly upregulated in the 50 % VMO group. PCA of gene expression demonstrated the positive influences on gene regulation in the 50 % VMO dietary group. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the positive effect of substituting 50 % of fish oil with algal oil in the diets of Atlantic salmon. The findings of histomorphometry, mucosal mapping, immunohistochemistry, and immune-related genes connected to mucosal responses all support this conclusion.

Exploring Types of Photonic Neural Networks for Imaging and Computing-A Review.

Photonic neural networks (PNNs), utilizing light-based technologies, show immense potential in artificial intelligence (AI) and computing. Compared to traditional electronic neural networks, they offer faster processing speeds, lower energy usage, and improved parallelism. Leveraging light's properties for information processing could revolutionize diverse applications, including complex calculations and advanced machine learning (ML). Furthermore, these networks could address scalability and efficiency challenges in large-scale AI systems, potentially reshaping the future of computing and AI research. In this comprehensive review, we provide current, cutting-edge insights into diverse types of PNNs crafted for both imaging and computing purposes. Additionally, we delve into the intricate challenges they encounter during implementation, while also illuminating the promising perspectives they introduce to the field.