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The antimicrobial resistance crisis along with challenges of antimicrobial discovery revealed the vital necessity to develop new antibiotics. Many of the animal proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs) inhibit the process of bacterial translation. Genome projects allowed to identify immune-related genes encoding animal host defense peptides. Here, using genome mining approach, we discovered a family of proline-rich cathelicidins, named rumicidins. The genes encoding these peptides are widespread among ruminant mammals. Biochemical studies indicated that rumicidins effectively inhibited the elongation stage of bacterial translation. The cryo-EM structure of the Escherichia coli 70S ribosome in complex with one of the representatives of the family revealed that the binding site of rumicidins span the ribosomal A-site cleft and the nascent peptide exit tunnel interacting with its constriction point by the conservative Trp23-Phe24 dyad. Bacterial resistance to rumicidins is mediated by knockout of the SbmA transporter or modification of the MacAB-TolC efflux pump. A wide spectrum of antibacterial activity, a high efficacy in the animal infection model, and lack of adverse effects towards human cells in vitro make rumicidins promising molecular scaffolds for development of ribosome-targeting antibiotics. The antimicrobial resistance crisis calls for development of new classes of antibiotics. Here, authors use genome mining approach to discover a distinct family of ribosome-targeting proline rich antimicrobial peptides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1926, Freud famously conjectured that the human ego defense of repression against an internal instinctual threat evolved from the animal motor defense of flight from an external predatory threat. Studies over the past 50 years mainly in rodents have investigated the neurobiology of the fight-or-flight reflex to external threats, which activates the emergency alarm system in the dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG), the malfunction of which appears likely in panic and post-traumatic stress disorders, but perhaps also in some "nonemergent" conditions like social anxiety and "hysterical" conversion disorder. Computational neuroscience studies in mice by Reis and colleagues have revealed unprecedented insights into the dPAG-related neural mechanisms underlying these evolutionarily honed emergency vertebrate defensive functions (e.g., explore, risk assessment, escape, freeze). A psychoanalytic interpretation of the Reis studies demonstrates that Freud's 1926 conjecture is confirmed, and that internal instinctual threats alone can also set off the dPAG emergency alarm system, which is regulated by 5-HT1A and CRF-1 receptors. Consistent with current psychoanalytic and neurobiologic theories of panic, several other of the primitive components of the dPAG alarm system may also have relevance for understanding of the unconscious determinants of impaired object relationships (e.g., avoidance distance). These dPAG findings reveal (1) a process of "evolution in situ," whereby a more sophisticated dPAG ego defense is seen evolving out of a more primitive dPAG motor defense, (2) a dPAG location for the phylogenetically ancient kernel of Freud's Ego and Id, and (3) a Conscious Id theory that has been conclusively invalidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggression is a fundamental behavior with essential roles in dominance assertion, resource acquisition, and self-defense across the animal kingdom. However, dysregulation of the aggression circuitry can have severe consequences in humans, leading to economic, emotional, and societal burdens. Previous inconsistencies in aggression research have been due to limitations in techniques for studying these neurons at a high spatial resolution, resulting in an incomplete understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying aggression. Recent advancements in optogenetics, pharmacogenetics, single-cell RNA sequencing, and in vivo electrophysiology have provided new insights into this complex circuitry. This review aims to explore the aggression-provoking stimuli and their detection in rodents, particularly through the olfactory systems. Additionally, we will examine the core regions associated with aggression, their interactions, and their connection with the prefrontal cortex. We will also discuss the significance of top-down cognitive control systems in regulating atypical expressions of aggressive behavior. While the focus will primarily be on rodent circuitry, we will briefly touch upon the modulation of aggression in humans through the prefrontal cortex and discuss emerging therapeutic interventions that may benefit individuals with aggression disorders. This comprehensive understanding of the neural substrates of aggression will pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies and clinical interventions. This approach contrasts with the broader perspective on neural mechanisms of aggression across species, aiming for a more focused analysis of specific pathways and their implications for therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tardigrades are unique among animals in their resistance to dehydration, mainly due to anhydrobiosis and tun formation. They are also very resistant to high-energy radiation, low and high temperatures, low and high pressure, and various chemical agents, Interestingly, they are resistant to ionizing radiation both in the hydrated and dehydrated states to a similar extent. They are able to survive in the cosmic space. Apparently, many mechanisms contribute to the resistance of tardigrades to harmful factors, including the presence of trehalose (though not common to all tardigrades), heat shock proteins, late embryogenesis-abundant proteins, tardigrade-unique proteins, DNA repair proteins, proteins directly protecting DNA (Dsup and TDR1), and efficient antioxidant system. Antioxidant enzymes and small-molecular-weight antioxidants are an important element in the tardigrade resistance. The levels and activities of many antioxidant proteins is elevated by anhydrobiosis and UV radiation; one explanation for their induction during dehydration is provided by the theory of "preparation for oxidative stress", which occurs during rehydration. Genes coding for some antioxidant proteins are expanded in tardigrades; some genes (especially those coding for catalases) were hypothesized to be of bacterial origin, acquired by horizontal gene transfer. An interesting antioxidant protein found in tardigrades is the new Mn-dependent peroxidase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motion is a crucial part of the natural world, yet our understanding of how animals avoid predation whilst moving remains rather limited. Although several theories have been proposed for how antipredator defence may be facilitated during motion, there is often a lack of supporting empirical evidence, or conflicting findings. Furthermore, many studies have shown that motion often 'breaks' camouflage, as sudden movement can be detected even before an individual is recognised. Whilst some static camouflage strategies may conceal moving animals to a certain extent, more emphasis should be given to other modes of camouflage and related defences in the context of motion (e.g. flicker fusion camouflage, active motion camouflage, motion dazzle, and protean motion). Furthermore, when motion is involved, defence strategies are not necessarily limited to concealment. An animal can also rely on motion to mislead predators with regards to its trajectory, location, size, colour pattern, or even identity. In this review, we discuss the various underlying antipredator strategies and the mechanisms through which they may be linked to motion, conceptualising existing empirical and theoretical studies from two perspectives – concealing and misleading effects. We also highlight gaps in our understanding of these antipredator strategies, and suggest possible methodologies for experimental designs/test subjects (i.e. prey and/or predators) and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are key cellular signalling molecules, are reactive chemicals containing oxygen. Cell survival or death is a critical issue in the inflammatory response. Accumulation of ROS involves ROS generation and scavenging, which determine ROS homeostasis. Understanding the roles of ROS in modulating the inflammatory response in fish is vital for helping protect fish from the damage of water pollutants in harsh environmental conditions. ROS‐related key genes and signalling pathways are relatively conserved in fish but vary among different species. Recent frequent incidences of fish diseases have posed a considerable challenge to large‐scale aquaculture. ROS is important in stress perception, integration of diverse stress‐responsive signalling networks, and activation of animal defence mechanisms, which frequently occur during inflammation in fish. This review summarises recent studies on ROS signalling pathways during inflammation in fish. Furthermore, it examines the relationship between ROS and inflammation in fish. This review may contribute to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which ROS regulate inflammation in fish and provide suggestions for sustainable development in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medium-chain triglycerides such as decanoic acid (C10), which is one of the fatty acids that constitute dietary fats, are of substantial interest for their potential therapeutic effects on neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the effects of C10 on attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remain to be studied. We explored the effects of C10 on behavioural activity and antioxidant defences in an experimental animal model of ADHD. Methods: To establish an experimental animal model of ADHD, neonatal rats were subjected to unilateral striatal lesions using 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). The rats sequentially underwent open-field and Y-maze tests before treatment [postnatal day 25 (PN25)]. After the subcutaneous administration of either vehicle or C10 solution (250 mg/kg) for 14 days, the behavioural tests were repeated on PN39. Next, we examined the effects of C10 on the expression of the constitutive antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase-1/2 and the phase II transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 in four different regions of the rat brain. Results: Injection of 6-OHDA unilaterally into the striatum resulted in elevated locomotor activity on PN39. The administration of C10 for a period of 14 days did not alter the locomotor hyperactivity. Moreover, the administration of C10 had no significant effects on the expression of proteins related to antioxidant defences in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, striatum or cerebellum of both control and lesioned rats. Conclusions: The lack of significant effects of C10 in our study may depend on the dose and duration of C10 administration. Further exhaustive studies are needed to verify the efficacy and effects of different doses and treatment durations of C10 and to explore the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a neurotoxic molecule used by many animals for defense and/or predation, as well as an important biomedical tool. Its ubiquity as a defensive agent has led to repeated independent evolution of tetrodotoxin resistance in animals. TTX binds to voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC) consisting of α and β subunits. Virtually all studies investigating the mechanisms behind TTX resistance have focused on the α subunit of voltage-gated sodium channels, where tetrodotoxin binds. However, the possibility of β subunits also contributing to tetrodotoxin resistance was never explored, though these subunits act in concert. In this study, we present preliminary evidence suggesting a potential role of β subunits in the evolution of TTX resistance. We gathered mRNA sequences for all β subunit types found in vertebrates across 12 species (three TTX-resistant and nine TTX-sensitive) and tested for signatures of positive selection with a maximum likelihood approach. Our results revealed several sites experiencing positive selection in TTX-resistant taxa, though none were exclusive to those species in subunit β1, which forms a complex with the main physiological target of TTX (VGSC Nav1.4). While experimental data validating these findings would be necessary, this work suggests that deeper investigation into β subunits as potential players in tetrodotoxin resistance may be worthwhile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predator–prey interactions have been suggested as drivers of diversity in different lineages, and the presence of anti-predator defences in some clades is linked to higher rates of diversification. Warning signals are some of the most widespread defences in the animal world, and there is evidence of higher diversification rates in aposematic lineages. The mechanisms behind such species richness, however, are still unclear. Here, we test whether lineages that use aposematism as anti-predator defence exhibit higher levels of genetic differentiation between populations, leading to increased opportunities for divergence. We collated from the literature more than 3000 pairwise genetic differentiation values across more than 700 populations from over 60 amphibian species. We find evidence that over short geographical distances, populations of species of aposematic lineages exhibit greater genetic divergence relative to species that are not aposematic. Our results support a scenario where the use of warning signals could restrict gene flow, and suggest that anti-predator defences could impact divergence between populations and potentially have effects at a macro-evolutionary scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protective defense mechanisms are well documented across the animal kingdom, but there are still examples of antipredator defenses that do not fit easily into the current conceptualization. They either fall within the intersection of multiple mechanisms or fail to fall neatly into pre‐existing categories. Here, using Endler's predatory sequence as a framework, we identify problematic examples of antipredator defenses, separating them into protective mechanisms that are difficult to classify and those which act sequentially depending on context. We then discuss three ways of improving underlying terminological and definitional problems: (1) issues with English and polysemy, (2) overlapping aspects of similar mechanisms, and (3) unclear definitions. By scrutinizing the literature, we disentangle several opaque areas in the study of protective defense mechanisms and highlight questions that require further research. An unclear conceptual framework for protective defense mechanisms can lead to misconceptions in understanding the costs and benefits of defenses displayed by animals, while interchangeable terminologies and ambiguous definitions can hinder communication in antipredator studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The defense of animal rights has contributed to questioning the relationship between humans and animals focusing on animal abuse by humans. Current Spanish law has been reformed to safeguard animals that are either protected fauna or that live under human control, no longer considering them as things but as sentient beings. The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship of speciesism and animal attitudes with people's perceptions of farm animal abuse, considering the role of gender and place of residence and controlling social desirability. A sample of 457 people, aged between 18 and 73 years old, 73% women, participated in this study. There were 63.7% of participants who lived in urban areas and the rest in rural areas of a territory highly protected by environmental law. They answered an online questionnaire including scenarios of farm animal abuse, the Animal Attitude Scale, Speciesism Scale and Social Desirability Scale. The results showed that negative perceptions of farm animal abuse and the willingness to intervene to stop it were more related to animal attitude than to speciesism. Furthermore, although participants living in rural areas leaned more towards speciesism, they did not have more negative attitudes than those living in urban areas. The results are discussed in terms of whether the law should consider all animals alike, irrespective of people's perceptions, as with different human ethnicities and genders or whether distinctions should be made redefining animal instrumentality in terms of biodiversity and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing form and function of animal defenses is paramount to understanding the ecological and evolutionary forces behind predator and prey dynamics. Color patterns are strongly related to defensive strategies in animals. Some rely on camouflage to avoid detection, while others are brightly colored and conspicuously signal their noxiousness to potential predators. Still others combine cryptic dorsal coloration with colorful patches that are concealed in resting position but are facultatively unveiled by special behavior or simply during activity. Such hidden conspicuous color patches may be an intermediate stage in the evolution from camouflage to aposematism. Many species, especially treefrogs of the family Hylidae, are generally considered to be cryptic, yet show colorful patches on their flanks or thighs and have defensive skin secretions that may have unpalatable properties. We investigated whether the conspicuous black and yellow spotted pattern on the thighs of Eastern Gray Treefrogs (Hyla versicolor) serve as an aposematic signal. We conducted a palatability study to test whether Gray Treefrog skin secretions are unpalatable, and a clay model field study to test whether the conspicuous black and yellow thigh pattern is an aposematic warning coloration that reduces predation. Frog secretions were discriminated against during palatability assays, and clay models painted with a spotted black and yellow pattern suffered lower predation rates. Our findings support the hypothesis that hidden color patches act as aposematic signals in Gray Treefrogs and suggest that more species benefit from aposematic coloration than currently appreciated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Modern sows have an elevated metabolic rate, which can result in oxidative stress and impair reproductive performance. From this study, it is clear that dietary supplementation of beta-carotene can mitigate oxidative damage during lactation and increase piglet weight at weaning. When used from the beginning of gestation, beta-carotene supplementation also results in a greater number of weaned piglets and higher weaning weight. The rapid fetal development and the increased demand for milk result in a catabolic state and oxidative stress in hyperprolific sows. Despite animal defense mechanisms, the dietary supplementation of antioxidants is being evaluated to reduce the impacts of excess free radicals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of beta-carotene supplementation for sows on the reproductive response and performance of suckling piglets. A total of 120 sows were distributed in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement of three supplementation levels (B0–no supplementation, B200–200 mg beta-carotene/day and B400–400 mg beta-carotene/day) and four groups of parity order (1st, 2nd, 3rd, above 4th). Beta-carotene supplementation during lactation resulted in a higher litter weight at weaning. A higher average weight of piglets and litter weight at birth were observed, as well as a greater number of piglets weaned and litter weight at weaning in sows supplemented with 400 mg of beta-carotene during gestation and lactation periods. Supplementation with 200 and 400 mg of beta-carotene resulted in a greater weight at weaning and daily weight gain in piglets. Daily supplementation with 400 mg of beta-carotene in the prepartum and lactation phases provides a greater litter weight at weaning and, when supplemented in the pre-gestation and gestation periods, results in a greater litter weight at birth and at weaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All jawed vertebrates have four T cell receptor (TCR) chains expressed by thymus-derived lymphocytes that play a significant role in animal immune defense. However, avian TCR studies have been limited to a few species, although their co-functional major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs) have been studied for decades, showing various copy numbers and polymorphisms. Here, using public genome data, we characterized the copy numbers, the phylogenic relationship and selection of T cell receptor complex (TCR-C) segments, and the genomic organization of TCR loci across birds. Various numbers of C segments were found in the TCRα/TCRδ, TCRβ, and TCRγ loci, and phylogenetic analysis reflected both ancient gene duplication events (two Cβ segments and Cδ segments divergent into CδI and CδII) and contemporary evolution (lineage-specific and species-specific characteristics). Most passerines lack CδII segments and a second TRD locus, except Meliphagidae and Maluridae. A relatively stable structure was verified in four TCR loci of birds, except for the arrangement of V segment groups. In this study, we explored the phylogenetic relationships of TCR-C segments across avians for the first time. We inferred gene duplication and loss events during the evolution process. The finding of diverse TCR germline repertoires provides a better understanding of the immune systems of birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein I engage with the very difficult question of whether the duty to aid (sometimes called a duty of assistance or a duty of beneficence) extends so far as to justify harming persons, perhaps even lethally, in order to protect wild animals. I argue that this question is not nearly as settled as our intuitions may suggest and that Shelly Kagan's arguments on Defending Animals, contained in his book How to Count Animals, More or Less, provide a rich substrate in which to cultivate ideas on this subject (2019, pp. 248-279). My intuition is that killing a person, even one 'guilty' of trying to kill an animal for sport or leisure, is far beyond what a duty to aid can command, though admittedly I find my own intuition somewhat morally dumbfounding. I argue further that Tom Regan's 'worse-off principle' may ease the ever-uncomfortable sense of moral dumbfounding by providing a surer foundation for the intuitive sense that we cannot ethically go so far as to threaten a person with lethal force in defense of nonhuman animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress is an increasingly concerning topic under global warming. Heat stress can induce organisms to produce excess reactive oxygen species, which will lead to cell damage and destroy the antioxidant defense of aquatic animals. Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, is sensitive to the change in water temperature, and parent crabs are more vulnerable during the breeding stage. In the present study, the multi-omics responses of parent E. sinensis gills to heat stress (24 h) were determined via transcriptome and proteome. The integrative analysis revealed that heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and glutathione s-transferase (GST) were significantly up-regulated at gene and protein levels after heat stress, indicating that HSP70 and the antioxidant system participated in the regulatory mechanism of heat stress to resist oxidative damage. Moreover, the "Relaxin signaling pathway" was also activated at gene and protein levels under 30 °C stress, which implied that relaxin may be essential and responsible for reducing the oxidative damage of gills caused by extreme heat stress. These findings provided an understanding of the regulation mechanism in E. sinensis under heat stress at gene and protein levels. The mining of key functional genes, proteins, and pathways can also provide a basis for the cultivation of new varieties resistant to oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crustaceans live on large colonial invertebrates for a variety of reasons, but in all cases must overcome the defenses of the host animal. We surveyed the crustaceans living on deep-sea octocorals collected during expeditions to the New England and Corner Rise seamounts (2003-2005) in the Northwest Atlantic and to the Aleutian Ridge (2004) in the North Pacific. Only a small number of crustacean species were found on octocorals in the Northwest Atlantic but a great many species, especially amphipods, were found on octocorals in the Northwest Pacific. We suggest that this disparity is due to both the differences in octocoral host dominance as well as differences in the available species pool between the two oceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the molecular mechanisms of animal toxins, venoms, and antivenoms. Venoms have evolved in many animals as a means of defense or attack, and they contain various toxins that affect different systems in prey, victims, and predators. The article highlights the importance of studying the structure and mechanisms of action of animal toxins and venoms for the development of new drugs and effective treatments for venomous animal bites. It also mentions the discovery of new toxins and the addition of new venomous animal species, such as the platypus and slow lorises. The authors emphasize the need for further research in this field. [Extracted from the article]

Animal defences against infection involve two distinct but complementary mechanisms: tolerance and resistance. Tolerance measures the animal's ability to limit detrimental effects from a given infection, whereas resistance is the ability to limit the intensity of that infection. Tolerance is a valuable defence for highly prevalent, persistent or endemic infections where mitigation strategies based on traditional resistance mechanisms are less effective or evolutionarily stable. Selective breeding of amphibians for enhanced tolerance to Batrachochytrium spp. has been suggested as a strategy for mitigating the impacts of the fungal disease, chytridiomycosis. Here, we define infection tolerance and resistance in the context of chytridiomycosis, present evidence for variation in tolerance to chytridiomycosis, and explore epidemiological, ecological and evolutionary implications of tolerance to chytridiomycosis. We found that exposure risk and environmental moderation of infection burdens are major confounders of resistance and tolerance, chytridiomycosis is primarily characterized by variation in constitutive rather than adaptive resistance, tolerance is epidemiologically important in driving pathogen spread and maintenance, heterogeneity of tolerance leads to ecological trade-offs, and natural selection for resistance and tolerance is likely to be dilute. Improving our understanding of infection tolerance broadens our capacity for mitigating the ongoing impacts of emerging infectious diseases such as chytridiomycosis. This article is part of the theme issue 'Amphibian immunity: stress, disease and ecoimmunology'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the physiological responses of subadult yellow-spotted Amazon river turtle, Podocnemis unifilis, to incremental crude protein levels (29%, 32%, 35%, and 39% CP) as extruded commercial feeds. The hematological and plasma biochemical parameters of P. unifilis were analyzed at 60, 120, and 180 days of the feeding trial. The increase in total thrombocyte, leukocyte, lymphocyte, heterophil, and eosinophil numbers, besides high respiratory burst activity showed an improvement in animal immune defense response to incremental protein in diets, acting together to maintain the integrity of the tissues against antigens and infectious agents. Elevated subadult P. unifilis plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride levels observed after increasing the feeding time (until 180 days) with incremented protein levels in artificial diets during captivity are a nutritional warning, related to the condition of being less physically active. Based on these results, periodic physiological evaluations are particularly important to ensure the healthy and adequate nutritional conditions of captive-bred animals, such as maintaining lower stocking densities of animals to avoid stress and, if possible, providing them with fresh food in addition to extruded artificial feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraspecific predation is a special case of prey–predator system that is taxonomically widespread. While a heterospecific predator's main goal is to achieve nutrition, intraspecific predation provides conspecifics with other benefits including elimination of competitors for resources and mates. Traditionally intraspecific predation is termed based on the context they occur within, for example egg cannibalism, infanticide and sexual cannibalism. These diverse forms of intraspecific predation and the strategies by which animals are known to deter them are summarized categorically in this review. The diversity of defence strategies animals deploy against conspecific predators is appreciable and raises interesting questions on their evolution for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is structured in four approaches: historical, literary, anthropological and philosophical. From the historical perspective, it addresses the origins of the relationship between man and animals, in addition to considering the interactions that took place between the viringo and the Peruvian historical tradition. From the literary point of view, the naturalistic and symbolic representation of the canine in Peru is described, applied to narrative situations of shepherd dogs and urban stories as the case of parallels with militarized school life. From the anthropological point of view, it focuses mainly on the insertion of animals in culture, highlighting the religious and ritual aspect. From the moral or ethical philosophy, the mechanistic position of Descartes, the deontological ethics of Kant and the different theories of ecological ethics in defense of animals, such as the position of Bentham, Singer, Regan and Nussbaum, are approached. The logic of Cartesian dominion and the different naturalist positions in favor of animal law, who apply the concept of personhood to irrational beings, are criticized. Finally, a realistic animal ethics is proposed, which helps to avoid any kind of mistreatment, abuse and exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stress response is essential for animal self-defense and survival. However, species may exhibit stress response variation depending on their specific environmental and selection pressures. Blind cavefish dwell in cave environments, which differ markedly in stressors and resource availability compared to surface aquatic environments. However, whether blind cavefish exhibit differences in stress response as an adaptation to their cave environments remains unclear. Here, we investigated differences in stress response in six closely related Triplophysa species, including three blind cavefish (T. longibarbata, T. jiarongensis, and T. rosa) and three normal-sighted river fish (T. nasobarbatula, T. dongsaiensis, and T. bleekeri). Results showed that blind cavefish exhibited a range of distinct behavioral responses compared to sighted river fish, including greater levels of activity, shorter duration of freezing, absence of erratic movements or thrashing behavior, and opposite behavioral trends over time. Furthermore, the cavefish species demonstrated attenuated increases in metabolic rate in response to stressors related to novel environments. Cave-dwelling T. rosa also exhibited lower basal hypothalamic-pituitary-inter-renal (HPI) axis-related gene expression levels and stress hormone concentrations compared to river-dwelling T. bleekeri. These results suggest that blind cavefish may have lost their behavioral stress response, potentially mediated by a reduction in basal activity of the HPI axis, thus enabling the conservation of energy by reducing unnecessary expenditure in energy-limited caves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproduction is a central activity for all living organisms but is also associated with a diversity of costs that are detrimental for survival. Until recently, the cost of cancer as a selective force has been poorly considered. Considering 191 mammal species, we found cancer mortality was more likely to be detected in species having large, rather than low, litter sizes and long lactation lengths regardless of the placentation types. However, increasing litter size and gestation length are not per se associated with an enhanced cancer mortality risk. Contrary to basic theoretical expectations, the species with the highest cancer mortality were not those with the most invasive (i.e. haemochorial) placentation, but those with a moderately invasive (i.e. endotheliochorial) one. Overall, these results suggest that (i) high reproductive efforts favour oncogenic processes' dynamics, presumably because of trade-offs between allocation in reproduction effort and anti-cancer defences, (ii) cancer defence mechanisms in animals are most often adjusted to align reproductive lifespan, and (iii) malignant cells co-opt existing molecular and physiological pathways for placentation, but species with the most invasive placentation have also selected for potent barriers against lethal cancers. This work suggests that the logic of Peto's paradox seems to be applicable to other traits that promote tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium is a heavy metal, dangerous environmental pollutant that negatively affects the body and the functioning of its organs and systems: blood, heart, liver, kidneys, and nervous system. It also harms the immune system, reducing the body's resistance to infections and increasing the risk of developing allergic, autoimmune, and oncological diseases. We studied the indicators of the humoral and nonspecific links of the immune system in young cattle subject to cadmium loading and the effects of a feed supplement and a liposomal preparation. The animals were divided into three groups of 5 each. Cadmium loading was attained by feeding cadmium chloride with feed in the dose of 0.04 mg/kg of the animal's body weight. The animals of the experimental groups were additionally given Metisevit and Butaselmevit. Usage of these drugs was accompanied by strengthening of the immune status of the body of young cattle, including increased bactericidal and lysozyme activities of blood serum, increased phagocytic activity, and phagocytic index, simultaneously with decrease in the level of circulating immune complexes in blood. In the conditions of experimental cadmium loading, we observed the best results in strengthening of the immune defense of the animals after combined use of the Metisevit feed additive and the Butaselmevit liposomal drug. These changes in the body of young cattle were associated with the complex effect of the components of the feed supplement and the liposomal preparation. The advantages of the liposomal form of Butaselmevit were more pronounced and longer-lasting effects. The Metisevit supplement and Butaselmevit liposomal drug were observed to be highly effective when used together during cadmium loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidative state of intestinal tracts of healthy animals were investigated after short-term intake of half-fin anchovy hydrolysates (HAHp) and their thermal or Maillard reaction products (MRPs). After one month of continuous oral gavage of HAHp, HAHp-heated products (HAHp-H), the MRPs of HAHp with 3% of glucose (HAHp-3%G MRPs), and the MRPs of HAHp with 3% of fructose (HAHp-3%F MRPs) at a dose of 1.0 g/kg of body weight per day into healthy ICR male mice, the concentrations of serum low-density and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol did not significantly change compared to the control group (CK, gavage with saline). Similar results were found for the interleukin-6 concentrations of all groups. By comparison, HAHp-H, HAHp-3%G MRPs, and HAHp-3%F MRPs administration decreased serum tumor necrosis factor-α concentration as compared to the CK group (p < 0.05). No histological damage was observed in the jejunum, ileum, and colonic tissues of all groups. However, HAHp-H treatment induced higher upregulation of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1, transcription factors Nrf-2, associated protective phase-II enzymes of NAD(P)H: quinine oxidoreductase-1, and hemoxygenase-1 in colon tissue, as well as higher upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, including copper/zinc superoxide dismutase, manganese superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase 2 than other groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, increases in Nε-carboxymethyllysine expression in the colonic tissues of all groups were consistent with their increased oligopeptide transporter 1 expressions. Our results suggest that the thermal products of HAHp might have a broad application prospect in improving antioxidant defense in vivo in healthy animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific research reflected in these investigations constituted the study of some immunological aspects of the immune defence mechanisms in various periods at lambs. As a result of the immunological investigation, various indices characteristic of phagocytic activity and intensity were revealed. It was found that the phagocytic activity in these periods of the lambs' life is primarily attributed to neutrophils, the rest being carried out by macrophages. At the same time, the investigations have demonstrated that the defence mechanisms of the investigated animals are not triggered enough to protect the aggression of microorganisms, viruses and other pathogenic agents. The results of the study determined that the regulation of the humoral or cellular immune response is a complex modulation process involving a series of means through which the body's specific defence is maintained at a certain level and with a certain duration, in order to achieve homeostasis and preserve health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden kidney dysfunction caused by aberrant reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism that results in high clinical mortality. The rapid development of ROS scavengers provides new opportunities for AKI treatment. Herein, the use of hydrogen‐terminated germanene (H‐germanene) nanosheets is reported as an antioxidative defense nanoplatform against AKI in mice. The simulation results show that 2D H‐germanene can effectively scavenge ROS through free radical adsorption and subsequent redox reactions. In particular, the H‐germanene exhibits high accumulation in injured kidneys, thereby offering a favorable opportunity for treating renal diseases. In the glycerol‐induced murine AKI model, H‐germanene delivers robust antioxidative protection against ROS attack to maintain normal kidney function indicators without negative influence in vivo. This positive in vivo antioxidative defense in living animals demonstrates that the present H‐germanene nanoplatform is a powerful antioxidant against AKI and various anti‐inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular homeostasis is intricately influenced by stimuli from the microenvironment, including signaling molecules, metabolites, and pathogens. Functioning as a signaling hub within the cell, mitochondria integrate information from various intracellular compartments to regulate cellular signaling and metabolism. Multiple studies have shown that mitochondria may respond to various extracellular signaling events. However, it is less clear how changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) can impact mitochondrial homeostasis to regulate animal physiology. We find that ECM remodeling alters mitochondrial homeostasis in an evolutionarily conserved manner. Mechanistically, ECM remodeling triggers a TGF-β response to induce mitochondrial fission and the unfolded protein response of the mitochondria (UPRMT). At the organismal level, ECM remodeling promotes defense of animals against pathogens through enhanced mitochondrial stress responses. We postulate that this ECM-mitochondria crosstalk represents an ancient immune pathway, which detects infection- or mechanical-stress-induced ECM damage, thereby initiating adaptive mitochondria-based immune and metabolic responses. [Display omitted] • Hyaluronan degradation in the ECM induces mitochondrial remodeling • This ECM-to-mitochondria communication pathway is evolutionarily conserved • The TGF-β signaling mediates the ECM-to-mitochondria communication • ECM remodeling promotes immunity through the TGF-β and mitochondrial signaling Degradation of hyaluronan in the extracellular matrix leads to mitochondrial remodeling, activation of mitochondrial stress responses, and augmented immune signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aposematic bright colors have a key role for animal defense and can be expressed through metabolic production or by acquiring pigments from diet. Aposematic coloration can be related to both local adaptations and availability of trophic resources. The European fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) shows significant color variability and occurs across a broad range of habitats. Here we combined field observations with common rearing experiments to disentangle the role of environmental conditions and local adaptations in determining aposematic coloration of salamander populations. We assessed color variation and measured habitat features and food availability in adults from 25 populations. Furthermore, we reared newborn larvae from 10 populations under different food availability and analyzed color of metamorphs. To assess color pattern, we measured the percentage of yellow covering the body, and the Hue, Saturation and Value of yellow coloration. Adult showed strong variation of color pattern; variation was strongly related to the individual's size, to habitat productivity and to food availability. Under common garden conditions, differences between populations were not anymore evident, and coloration was only affected by resource availability during larval development. Our results suggest that environmental conditions and food availability are more important than local adaptations in determining differences in aposematic color pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lysozymes are hydrolytic enzymes characterized by their ability to cleave the β-(1,4)-glycosidic bonds in peptidoglycan, a major structural component of the bacterial cell wall. This hydrolysis action compromises the integrity of the cell wall, causing the lysis of bacteria. For more than 80 years, its role of antibacterial defense in animals has been renowned, and it is also used as a preservative in foods and pharmaceuticals. In order to improve the antimicrobial efficacy of lysozyme, extensive research has been intended for its modifications. This manuscript reviews the natural antibiotic compound lysozyme with reference to its catalytic and non-catalytic mode of antibacterial action, lysozyme types, susceptibility and resistance of bacteria, modification of lysozyme molecules, and its applications in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Every student comes across traditional conceptions of the legal person during law school. Professors usually explain that humans and corporations are legal persons, and that legal personhood is the most important category within the legal system as legal persons can enter into different legal relations, hold rights, and bear duties. Nonhuman animals are usually not mentioned in courses of this sort. This article examines four traditional concepts of the legal person and argues that nonhuman animals can be considered persons according to each concept. It notes that the law does not consider the concept of the human the same as the concept of the legal person, and that animals may benefit from an ecumenical defense, considering that legal practitioners such as judges commonly use these four traditional concepts of legal personhood, sometimes in the same ruling. Since Roman law, the category of the legal person has been the most relevant legal category, allowing humans and entities to act within the law and enter into legal relations. The legal system does not consider nonhuman animals as legal persons but as property or as sentient beings regulated by the rules of property. Throughout history, there have been different concepts of the legal person, and some are still relevant today. This article examines four traditional concepts of legal personhood, arguing that nonhuman animals can be considered persons according to each concept. The article reaches three main conclusions. First, the legal person is not the same as the human. Second, the debate between the equivalence and the subset views poses a dilemma between a revolution or the reform of animals' legal status. Third, an ecumenical defense of animal legal personhood may benefit animals as it supports animal persons according to any of the traditional concepts of legal personhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The war in Ukraine has had an extensive impact upon societies not directly involved in the military fighting. Traditional and social media has been filled with references to the war and discussions concerning how individuals as well as society as a whole would cope if war were to erupt in Sweden. In this context, an often overlooked issue is the relationship between humans and animals. This article discusses challenges to the total defence system, brought on by the norms of the 2020s, concerning the social relationship between humans and animals. It presents a number of areas wherein the relation between humans and animals is likely to raise questions and invoke conflict with existing regulations of the total defence: views of security, laws and regulations for wartime and crisis situations, and the development of social relations between humans and animals. Finally, some ideas are presented regarding how a total defence including animals could be materialized, and which changes such ideas would pose to the present total defence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggression is an important component of an animal's defense when protecting offspring from predators. Ground nesting birds use a variety of defense strategies. However, their choice according to situation context is poorly known, especially in nonpasserines and in the subtropics and tropics. The ability to distinguish between differently dangerous predator species and the opportunity to share defense with conspecifics are potentially important but little‐studied aspects of nest defense strategy. We experimentally studied the nest defense of Red‐Wattled Lapwing in an individually marked population in a desert area near Dubai, UAE. We used three stuffed models representing 1) a predator dangerous both to adults and to nests (a cat), 2) a nest predator (a raven), and 3) a harmless reference model (a moorhen). We confirmed that the lapwings distinguished between predator species (being most aggressive toward the cat, and least aggressive toward the moorhen) and adjusted their defense strategy accordingly. In addition, conspecific visitors play a variety of roles in parents' defense strategy. They can strengthen the parental reaction, or they can assist in distracting a predator. The visitors included not only nesting neighbors but also nonbreeding floaters. Both parents participated in nest defense to a similar extent, regardless of incubation stage and ambient temperature. This study provides new insight into the complexity of the defensive patterns in ground‐nesting birds inhabiting a hot environment. Comparative experimental research on a range of environments, with various bird species and predator models, can help us to understand the drivers of these defensive behavioral patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High concentration of ammonia-N will inhibit the immune defense of aquatic animals. The neuroendocrine-immune (NEI) regulatory mechanism under ammonia-N stress has been systematically studied, but the final response mechanism of ammonia-N affecting the immune system remains unclear. To investigate the relationship among immune factors of Litopenaeus vannamei (L. vannamei) exposed to 0, 2, 10 and 20 mg/L ammonia-N, the determination of complement components, C-type lectins, proPO system, signal transduction pathway and phagocytosis as well as exocytosis were performed. The results showed that the expressions of complement components including C1q , MBL , ficolin and alpha-2 macroglobulin (A2M) and the complement receptor integrin were decreased significantly in ammonia-N treatment groups at 6,12 and 24 h. C-type lectins and signal transduction factors changed significantly. The decrease of phagocytosis-related genes and phagocytic activity were similar to the changes of complement components, C-type lectins and the signal pathway. The mRNA abundance of exocytosis-related genes was significantly down-regulated under ammonia-N exposure. Correspondingly, significantly changes occurred in the expressions of PPAE and PPO3 , immune factors-related genes (Pen3 , crustin , stylicins , ALFs and LYC) and inflammatory factors (HSP90 , TNFα , IL-16) in haemocytes. Eventually, the serine proteinase activity, PO activity, antibacterial activity and bacteriolytic activity in plasma were decreased significantly. In addition, we speculated that under ammonia-N stress, phagocytosis and exocytosis were affected by complement components, and C-type lectins through intracellular signal transduction pathway. Complement components may involve in the regulation of proPO-activating system to response to ammonia-N stress. This study helped to further understanding the relationship among immune factors of crustacean in response to environmental stress, which implied that when it comes to the decrease of immunity affected by environmental stress, we should not only focus on the mechanism of upstream neuroendocrine response, but also pay attention to the role of immune factors. • The expression of complement components significantly reduced under ammonia-N stress. • Phagocytosis may be affected by complement and C-type lectins under ammonia-N stress. • Complement components may involve in regulation of proPO-activating system of shrimp. • The cellular and humoral immune response were reduced under ammonia-N stress. • The immune factors contribute to the decrease of immunity under environmental stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica is the property of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

We report the case of a young man, a former heroin addict, found dead at home by the Police Forces in an advanced state of decomposition. Numerous blisters and unpacked tablets of medications were found all over the bed and on the floor of the room. Multiple injuries to the face, left arm and neck of the deceased were noted. The latter damages were attributed to post-mortem dog bites, since no indications of a possible defense against the animal were observed. The autopsy findings were unremarkable. Toxicological investigations performed on peripheral blood and urine by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique showed the presence of acetaminophen, citalopram and trazodone. Combined drug intoxication was proposed as the cause of death since acetaminophen and trazodone concentrations were comparable with the ones found in fatal cases. Moreover, citalopram concentration in peripheral blood was above the toxic range and in accordance with levels found in fatalities due to poly-drug intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutrophils are the most abundant circulating white blood cells and one of the major cell types of the innate immune system. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are a result of the extracellular release of nuclear chromatin from the ruptured nuclear envelope and plasma membrane. The externalized chromatin is an ancient defense weapon for animals to entrap and kill microorganisms in the extracellular milieu, thus protecting animals ranging from lower invertebrates to higher vertebrates. Although the externalized chromatin has the advantage of acting as anti‐infective to protect against infections, extracellular chromatin might be problematic in higher vertebrate animals as they have an adaptive immune system that can trigger further immune or autoimmune responses. NETs and their associated nuclear and/or cytoplasmic components may induce sterile inflammation, immune, and autoimmune responses, leading to various human diseases. Though important in human pathophysiology, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of NET formation (also called NETosis) are not well understood. Given that nuclear chromatin forms the backbone of NETs, the nucleus is the root of the nuclear DNA extracellular traps. Thus, nuclear chromatin decondensation, along with the rupture of nuclear envelope and plasma membrane, is required for nuclear chromatin extracellular release and NET formation. So far, most of the literature focuses on certain signaling pathways, which are involved in NET formation but without explanation of cellular events and morphological changes described above. Here, we have summarized emerging evidence and discuss new mechanistic understanding, with our perspectives, in NET formation in neutrophils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health of the mammary gland in animals is of paramount importance both to milk productivity and to the whole organism. The term "mastitis" refers to inflammation of the mammary gland. It is characterized by pathological changes in the parenchyma, duct system and interstitial connective tissue, leading to changes in the composition and qualities of milk. Due to its high prevalence, mastitis is considered the most important threat to dairy industry, because of its impact on animal health and milk production. The aims of this paper are to consider mammary gland defenses, including anatomical and histological features, the role of immunoglobulins and mammary epithelial cells, functions of leukocytes, lactoferrin, different enzymes such as lysozyme and lactoperoxidase, chemical antibacterial agents and complement system. As well as the factors influencing the defensive functions of the gland, such as nutrition, milking method, genetic factors and udder conformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every ecosystem shows multiple levels of species interactions, which are often difficult to isolate and to classify regarding their specific nature. For most of the observed interactions, it comes down to either competition or consumption. The modes of consumption are various and defined by the nature of the consumed organism, e.g., carnivory, herbivory, as well as the extent of the consumption, e.g., grazing, parasitism. While the majority of consumers are animals, carnivorous plants can also pose a threat to arthropods. Water fleas of the family Daphniidae are keystone species in many lentic ecosystems. As most abundant filter feeders, they link the primary production to higher trophic levels. As a response to the high predatory pressures, water fleas have evolved various inducible defenses against animal predators. Here we show the first example, to our knowledge, in Ceriodaphnia dubia of such inducible defenses of an animal against a coexisting plant predator, i.e., the carnivorous bladderwort (Utricularia x neglecta Lehm, Lentibulariaceae). When the bladderwort is present, C. dubia shows changes in morphology, life history and behavior. While the morphological and behavioral adaptations improve C. dubia's survival rate in the presence of this predator, the life-history parameters likely reflect trade-offs for the defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellular mechanisms involved in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R) pathogenesis are complex but attributable to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS produced by coronary endothelial cells, blood cells (e.g., leukocytes and platelets), and cardiac myocytes have the potential to damage vascular cells directly and cardiac myocytes, initiating mechanisms that induce apoptosis, inflammation, necrosis, and fibrosis of myocardial cells. In addition to reducing blood pressure, lisinopril, a new non-sulfhydryl angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, increases the antioxidant defense in animals and humans. Recently, it has been shown that lisinopril can attenuate renal oxidative injury in the l-NAME-induced hypertensive rat and cause an impressive improvement in the antioxidant defense system of Wistar rats treated with doxorubicin. The potential effect of lisinopril on oxidative damage and fibrosis in human cardiomyocytes has not been previously investigated. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the effect of different doses of lisinopril on oxidative stress and fibrotic mediators in AC16 human cardiomyocytes, along with a 7-day presence in the culture medium. The results revealed that AC16 human cardiomyocytes exposed to lisinopril treatment significantly showed an upregulation of proteins involved in protecting against oxidative stress, such as catalase, SOD2, and thioredoxin, and a reduction of osteopontin and Galectin-3, critical proteins involved in cardiac fibrosis. Moreover, lisinopril treatment induced an increment in Sirtuin 1 and Sirtuin 6 protein expression. These findings demonstrated that, in AC16 human cardiomyocytes, lisinopril could protect against oxidative stress and fibrosis via the activation of Sirtuin 1 and Sirtuin 6 pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]