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Primary coenzyme Q10 deficiency‐1, caused by COQ2 disease‐causing variants, is an autosomal recessive disorder, and genetic testing is the gold standard for diagnosing this condition. A Chinese boy with steroid‐resistant nephrotic syndrome, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and progressive kidney insufficiency was included in the study. Electron microscopy revealed the glomerular basement membrane with irregular thickness and lamellation with diffuse effacement of foot processes in the podocytes, and swollen mitochondria with abnormal cristae in the podocytes. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation started about 3 weeks after the onset of mild kidney dysfunction did not improve the proband's kidney outcome. Proband‐only whole‐exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing revealed two heteroallelic COQ2 variants: a maternally inherited novel variant c.1013G > A[p.(Gly338Glu)] in exon 6 and a variant of unknown origin c.1159C > T[p.(Arg387*)] in exon 7. Subsequent long‐read sequencing demonstrated these two variants were located on different alleles. Our report extends the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of COQ2 glomerulopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Biological agents are getting a noticeable concern as efficient eco-friendly method for nanoparticle fabrication, from which fungi considered promising agents in this field. In the current study, two fungal species (Embellisia spp. and Gymnoascus spp.) were isolated from the desert soil in Saudi Arabia and identified using 18S rRNA gene sequencing then used as bio-mediator for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Myco-synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV–visible spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering techniques. Their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were investigated. In atrial to detect their possible antibacterial mechanism, Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE) and TEM analysis were performed for Klebsiella pneumoniae treated by the myco-synthesized AgNPs. Detected properties of the fabricated materials indicated the ability of both tested fungal strains in successful fabrication of AgNPs having same range of mean size diameters and varied PDI. The efficiency of Embellisia spp. in providing AgNPs with higher antibacterial activity compared to Gymnoascus spp. was reported however, both indicated antibacterial efficacy. Variations in the protein profile of K. pneumoniae after treatments and ultrastructural changes were observed. Current outcomes suggested applying of fungi as direct, simple and sustainable approach in providing efficient AgNPs.

Biological agents are getting a noticeable concern as efficient eco-friendly method for nanoparticle fabrication, from which fungi considered promising agents in this field. In the current study, two fungal species (Embellisia spp. and Gymnoascus spp.) were isolated from the desert soil in Saudi Arabia and identified using 18S rRNA gene sequencing then used as bio-mediator for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Myco-synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV–visible spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering techniques. Their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae were investigated. In atrial to detect their possible antibacterial mechanism, Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE) and TEM analysis were performed for Klebsiella pneumoniae treated by the myco-synthesized AgNPs. Detected properties of the fabricated materials indicated the ability of both tested fungal strains in successful fabrication of AgNPs having same range of mean size diameters and varied PDI. The efficiency of Embellisia spp. in providing AgNPs with higher antibacterial activity compared to Gymnoascus spp. was reported however, both indicated antibacterial efficacy. Variations in the protein profile of K. pneumoniae after treatments and ultrastructural changes were observed. Current outcomes suggested applying of fungi as direct, simple and sustainable approach in providing efficient AgNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary sesame oil and ginger oil supplements on the dorsal root ganglia following a sciatic nerve crush model in male Wistar albino rats. Crush injury models have been done by means of graded forceps (50 Newton). The animals were given a daily sesame oil (4 ml/kg/day) and ginger oil (400 mg/kg/day) via oral gavage for a period of 28 days. Dorsal root ganglia from the L5 levels were harvested. Processing of tissues was done for electron microscopy and light microscopy. Immunohistochemical staining with active caspase-3 antibody and qualitative ultrastructural analyses of tissues were made by a light and a transmission electron microscope, respectively. The results showed that crush injury leads to remarkable ultrastructural changes in sensory neurons, such as swollen mitochondria, disruption of cristae structure, glial cell proliferation and, consequently, phagocytosis of the damaged neuron. These ultrastructural changes were less evident in the treated groups, and both natural compounds reduced the expression of activated caspase-3, which may also affect ultrastructural changes. The application of the natural products sesame oil and ginger oil may represent a supportive approach to the protection of sensory neurons against the destructive effects of peripheral nerve crush injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Houseflies (Musca domestica: Diptera) are serious medical and veterinary vectors of several human and animal pathogens. Ovicides reduce breeding housefly populations and the risk of housefly vector diseases. The natural ovicides of plant essential oils (EOs) and their main ingredients were suitable and sustainable options at this time against houseflies. This study evaluated the housefly ovicidal activities of four single-component formulations and two combination formulations of essential oils and their main constituents. The efficacy of each treatment was compared to that of α-cypermethrin (a synthetic insecticide). Two combinations: lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) EO + trans-anethole and star anise (Illicium verum) EO + geranial, were at least 1.1 times as effective in ovicidal activity as all single-component treatments and α-cypermethrin. They induced embryonic damage and mortality inside the activities of the eggs, disrupting the eggshell, hatching line, aeropyles, plastron, and micropyle. More significantly, the two combinations and all single-component formulations were safe for two non-target aquatic species: guppy (Poecilia reticulate: Poeciliidae) and molly (Poecilia latipinna: Poeciliidae), while α-cypermethrin was not safe for them. The two combinations could be developed into an effective and safe natural ovicide for reducing housefly populations and managing housefly vector diseases. This study attempted to evaluate the ovicidal activity of single-component formulations and combination formulations of lemongrass and star anise essential oils (EOs) and their main constituents against housefly eggs. The efficacies of the combinations were compared with those of single-component formulations and α-cypermethrin. Safety bioassays of all treatments and α-cypermethrin on non-target predators—guppy and molly—were conducted. Two combinations: 1% lemongrass EO + 1% trans-anethole and 1% star anise EO + 1% geranial, exhibited a strong ovicidal activity with an inhibition rate of 94.4 to 96.2%. They were 1.1 times as effective as α-cypermethrin. The two combinations also showed high synergistic activity compared to single-component formulations, with a high synergistic index and a high increased inhibition value of 37.4 to 57.7%. All EO treatments were benign for all non-target aquatic species with a high 50% lethal time (LT50) and safety index. In contrast, α-cypermethrin was highly toxic to them with a low LT50. The morphological abnormalities observed in housefly eggs at death were those such as the shrivelling of the eggs, aberrations and damage to the eggshells, hatching lines, aeropyles, plastron, and micropyle. The potential of these two combinations as a cypermethrin replacement is compelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic inflammatory enteropathies (CIEs) are an important group of diseases in dogs and involve complex pathogenetic aspects. Endoscopy and histopathology are vital for documenting the disease but are less useful for subclassifying CIEs and predicting the response to treatment. However, healing of the mucosal disease process (deep remission) and ultrastructural evaluation of the mucosa have received little attention in canine CIE. Given that canine CIE shares many similarities with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) in human patients--and presents a good spontaneous disease model for human IBD--this perspective article evaluates the literature on ultrastructural lesions in canine CIE and human IBD and offers future directions for the study of ultrastructural mucosal lesions in canine CIE. Such lesions might have a higher sensitivity of detection than structural changes revealed upon light microscopy and may even precede or remain after the resolution of the clinical signs and histologic lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionThe synaptic contacts play an important role in central nervous system (CNS) functioning. Ultrastructural features of synapses in CNS are not studied in naphthalene neurotoxicity model. Materials and MethodologyIn the present work, transmission electron microscopy was used for studying the ultrastructural features of synapses in the hippocampus of Sprague Dawley rat brain, on subsequent exposure to naphthalene balls. The ultrastructural changes were observed for naphthalene low dose (200 mg), high dose (400 mg) after the treatment for 28 days, and post-delayed toxicity phase after 14 days in Sprague Dawley rats. ResultsIn comparison with different groups of naphthalene exposure including control and satellite, axon degeneration, axonal demyelination and abnormal synapses was observed in high dose naphthalene administration group. In the post-delayed naphthalene toxicity group, degeneration of synaptic contacts was observed. ConclusionsThis exploration of ultrastructural variations in the synapses of Hippocampus gives information that will be valued in naphthalene neurotoxicological research.

Abstract Applying extracts from plants is considered a safe approach in biomedicine and bio-nanotechnology. The present report is considered the first study that evaluated the seeds of Lasiurus scindicus and Panicum turgidum as biogenic agents in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) which had bioactivity against cancer cells and bacteria. Assessment of NPs activity against varied cell lines (colorectal cancer HCT116 and breast cancer MDA MBA 231 and MCF 10A used as control) was performed beside the antibacterial efficiency. Different techniques (DLS, TEM, EDX and FTIR) were applied to characterize the biosynthesized AgNPs. The phytochemicals from both L. scindicus and Panicum turgidum were identified by GC–MS analysis. Spherical monodisperse NPs at average diameters of 149.6 and 100.4 nm were obtained from seed extract of L. scindicus (L-AgNPs) and P. turgidum, (P-AgNPs) respectively. A strong absorption peak at 3 keV is observed by the EDX spectrum in the tested NPs. Our study provided effective NPs in mitigating the tested cell lines and the lowest IC50 were 7.8 and 10.30 for MDA MB231 treated by L-AgNPs and P-AgNPs, respectively. Both fabricated NPs might differentially target the MDA MB231 cells compared to HCT116 and MCF10A. Ultrastructural changes and damage for the NPs-treated MDA MB231 cells were studied using TEM and LSM analysis. Antibacterial activity was also observed. About 200 compounds were identified in L. scindicus and P. turgidum by GC–MS analysis might be responsible for the NPs reduction and capping abilities. Efficient NPs against cancer cells and microbes were obtained, however large-scale screening is needed to validate our findings.

Introduction: The synaptic contacts play an important role in central nervous system (CNS) functioning. Ultrastructural features of synapses in CNS are not studied in naphthalene neurotoxicity model. Materials and Methodology: In the present work, transmission electron microscopy was used for studying the ultrastructural features of synapses in the hippocampus of Sprague Dawley rat brain, on subsequent exposure to naphthalene balls. The ultrastructural changes were observed for naphthalene low dose (200 mg), high dose (400 mg) after the treatment for 28 days, and post-delayed toxicity phase after 14 days in Sprague Dawley rats. Results: In comparison with different groups of naphthalene exposure including control and satellite, axon degeneration, axonal demyelination and abnormal synapses was observed in high dose naphthalene administration group. In the post-delayed naphthalene toxicity group, degeneration of synaptic contacts was observed. Conclusions: This exploration of ultrastructural variations in the synapses of Hippocampus gives information that will be valued in naphthalene neurotoxicological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Applying extracts from plants is considered a safe approach in biomedicine and bio-nanotechnology. The present report is considered the first study that evaluated the seeds of Lasiurus scindicus and Panicum turgidum as biogenic agents in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) which had bioactivity against cancer cells and bacteria. Assessment of NPs activity against varied cell lines (colorectal cancer HCT116 and breast cancer MDA MBA 231 and MCF 10A used as control) was performed beside the antibacterial efficiency. Different techniques (DLS, TEM, EDX and FTIR) were applied to characterize the biosynthesized AgNPs. The phytochemicals from both L. scindicus and Panicum turgidum were identified by GC–MS analysis. Spherical monodisperse NPs at average diameters of 149.6 and 100.4 nm were obtained from seed extract of L. scindicus (L-AgNPs) and P. turgidum, (P-AgNPs) respectively. A strong absorption peak at 3 keV is observed by the EDX spectrum in the tested NPs. Our study provided effective NPs in mitigating the tested cell lines and the lowest IC50 were 7.8 and 10.30 for MDA MB231 treated by L-AgNPs and P-AgNPs, respectively. Both fabricated NPs might differentially target the MDA MB231 cells compared to HCT116 and MCF10A. Ultrastructural changes and damage for the NPs-treated MDA MB231 cells were studied using TEM and LSM analysis. Antibacterial activity was also observed. About 200 compounds were identified in L. scindicus and P. turgidum by GC–MS analysis might be responsible for the NPs reduction and capping abilities. Efficient NPs against cancer cells and microbes were obtained, however large-scale screening is needed to validate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are various substances that can disrupt the homeostatic mechanisms of the body, defined as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The persistent nature of microplastics (MPs) is a cause for concern due to their ability to accumulate in food chains and widespread use, making their toxic effects particularly alarming. The potential of MPs for disrupting the endocrine system was observed in multiple tissues. Moreover, the adrenal gland is known to be extremely sensitive to EDCs, while with the effect of MPs on the adrenal gland has not previously been studied. This study aimed to highlight the potential polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) induced adreno-toxic effects rather than exploring the implicated mechanisms and concluding if melatonin (Mel) can afford protection against PE-MPs induced adreno-toxicity. To fulfill the goal, six groups of rats were used; control, Mel, PE-MPs (3.75 mg/kg), PE-MPs (15 mg/kg), PE-MPs (3.75 mg/kg) +Mel, and PE-MPs (15 mg/kg) +Mel. PE-MPs induced toxic changes in the adrenal cortex, which was evident by increased adrenal weight, histopathological examination, and ultrastructural changes detected by electron microscope. A reduction in serum cortisol and an increase in serum adrenocorticotropic hormone resulted from the adreno-toxic effects of PE-MPs. Mechanisms may include the reduction of steroidogenesis-related genes, as PE-MPs drastically reduce mRNA levels of StAR, Nr0b1, Cyp11A1, as well as Cyp11B1. Also, oxidative stress that results from PE-MPs is associated with higher rates of lipid peroxidation and decreased superoxide dismutase and glutathione. PE-MPs inflammatory effect was illustrated by elevated expression of IL-1β and NF-ķB, detected by immunohistochemical staining, in addition to increased expression of caspase-3 and mRNA of Bax, markers of proapoptotic activity. The impacts of PE-MPs were relatively dose-related, with the higher dose showing more significant toxicity than the lower one. Mel treatment was associated with a substantial amelioration of PE-MPs-induced toxic changes. Collectively, this study fills the knowledge gap about the MPs-induced adrenal cortex and elucidates various related toxic mechanisms. It also supports Mel’s potential protective activity through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and gene transcription regulatory effects.

Chronic inflammatory enteropathies (CIEs) are an important group of diseases in dogs and involve complex pathogenetic aspects. Endoscopy and histopathology are vital for documenting the disease but are less useful for subclassifying CIEs and predicting the response to treatment. However, healing of the mucosal disease process (deep remission) and ultrastructural evaluation of the mucosa have received little attention in canine CIE. Given that canine CIE shares many similarities with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) in human patients—and presents a good spontaneous disease model for human IBD—this perspective article evaluates the literature on ultrastructural lesions in canine CIE and human IBD and offers future directions for the study of ultrastructural mucosal lesions in canine CIE. Such lesions might have a higher sensitivity of detection than structural changes revealed upon light microscopy and may even precede or remain after the resolution of the clinical signs and histologic lesions.

Global freshwater acidification, accelerated by rising pCO2, remains a critical ecological concern. Despite the prevalence of carboxylic acids like acetic acid (AA) and benzoic acid (BA) in freshwater, their potential to exacerbate acidification and impact biota is not fully understood. In this study, we examined behavioural disruptions during acute exposures (96 h) and operculum ultrastructure changes during chronic exposures (28 days) to ecologically-relevant concentrations of AA (39.7, 79.5, and 99.4 mg/L) and BA (31.4, 62.8, and 78.5 mg/L) in Bellamya bengalensis. Acute exposures revealed significant behavioural disruption, including reduced activity and impaired escape behaviour. Chronic exposures led to ultrastructural defects in the operculum, with more pronounced effects in BA-exposed groups. Acidification scenarios appeared to impact calcium carbonate crystal formation, compromising opercula structure. Our study underscores the importance of understanding both acute and chronic effects of freshwater acidification on molluscan species, emphasising the need for further research into the underlying mechanisms and thresholds of acidification tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The present study was carried out to determine the effect of whey protein concentrates (WPC; 0%, 1%, 2% and 3%) as a novel binder for restructured buffalo meat slices (RBMS). 3% WPC had significantly (P < 0.01) higher cooking yield, batter stability, water‐holding capacity and pH and lower (%) diameter shrinkage as compared to other formulations. The addition of WPC did not influence the total protein extractability, collagen content and collagen solubility of RBMS. However, the addition of 3% WPC significantly (P < 0.01) improved the textural characteristics, instrumental colour and sensory scores and enhanced the meat protein–milk protein gel network. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the matrix and gel networking of myofibrillar proteins and whey proteins, which caused more cohesiveness and compactness of the product. It was concluded that the addition of 3% WPC acted as an excellent binder for RBMS which can be used for commercial applications in the processed meat industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought severely slows down plant growth, decreases crop yield, and affects various physiological processes in plants. We examined four local bread wheat cultivars with different drought tolerance (drought-tolerant Zirva 85 and Murov 2 and drought-sensitive Aran and Gyzyl bughda cultivars). Leaves from seedlings of drought-tolerant plants demonstrated higher activity of antioxidant enzymes and lower levels of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide. The content of soluble proteins in drought-exposed increased, possibly due to the stress-induced activation of gene expression and protein synthesis. Drought-exposed Zirva 85 plants exhibited an elevated activity of nitrogen and carbon metabolism enzymes. Ultrastructural analysis by transmission electron microscopy showed drought-induced damage to mesophyll cells and chloroplast membranes, although it was manifested less in the drought-tolerant cultivars. Comparative analysis of the activity of metabolic and antioxidant enzymes, as well as observed ultrastructural changes in drought-exposed plants revealed that the response to drought of seedlings was more pronounced in drought-tolerant cultivars. These findings can be used in further studies of drought stress in wheat plants under natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study attempted to evaluate the ovicidal activity of single-component formulations and combination formulations of lemongrass and star anise essential oils (EOs) and their main constituents against housefly eggs. The efficacies of the combinations were compared with those of single-component formulations and α-cypermethrin. Safety bioassays of all treatments and α-cypermethrin on non-target predators—guppy and molly—were conducted. Two combinations: 1% lemongrass EO + 1% trans-anethole and 1% star anise EO + 1% geranial, exhibited a strong ovicidal activity with an inhibition rate of 94.4 to 96.2%. They were 1.1 times as effective as α-cypermethrin. The two combinations also showed high synergistic activity compared to single-component formulations, with a high synergistic index and a high increased inhibition value of 37.4 to 57.7%. All EO treatments were benign for all non-target aquatic species with a high 50% lethal time (LT50) and safety index. In contrast, α-cypermethrin was highly toxic to them with a low LT50. The morphological abnormalities observed in housefly eggs at death were those such as the shrivelling of the eggs, aberrations and damage to the eggshells, hatching lines, aeropyles, plastron, and micropyle. The potential of these two combinations as a cypermethrin replacement is compelling.

Asparagus samples were examined from growing areas of Germany and selected European as well as North, Central and South American countries. Overall, 474 samples were analyzed for Asparagus virus 1 (AV1) using DAS-ELISA. In our survey, 19 AV1 isolates were further characterized. Experimental transmission to 11 species belonging to Aizoaceae, Amarantaceae, Asparagaceae, and Solanaceae succeeded. The ultrastructure of AV1 infection in asparagus has been revealed and has been compared with the one in indicator plants. The cylindrical inclusion (CI) protein, a core factor in viral replication, localized within the cytoplasm and in systemic infections adjacent to the plasmodesmata. The majority of isolates referred to pathotype I (PI). These triggered a hypersensitive resistance in inoculated leaves of Chenopodium spp. and were incapable of infecting Nicotiana spp. Only pathotype II (PII) and pathotype III (PIII) infected Nicotiana benthamiana systemically but differed in their virulence when transmitted to Chenopodium spp. The newly identified PIII generated amorphous inclusion bodies and degraded chloroplasts during systemic infection but not in local lesions of infected Chenopodium spp. PIII probably evolved via recombination in asparagus carrying a mixed infection by PI and PII. Phylogeny of the coat protein region recognized two clusters, which did not overlap with the CI-associated grouping of pathotypes. These results provide evidence for ongoing modular evolution of AV1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For decades, only two nitroheterocyclic drugs have been used as therapeutic agents for Chagas disease. However, these drugs present limited effectiveness during the chronic phase, possess unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties, and induce severe adverse effects, resulting in low treatment adherence. A previous study reported that N-(cyclohexylcarbamothioyl) benzamide (BTU-1), N-(tert-butylcarbamothioyl) benzamide (BTU-2), and (4-bromo-N-(3-nitrophenyl) carbamothioyl benzamide (BTU-3) present selective antiprotozoal activity against all developmental forms of Trypanosoma cruzi Y strain. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of action of these compounds through microscopy and biochemical analyses. Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed nuclear disorganization, changes in the plasma membrane with the appearance of blebs and extracellular arrangements, intense vacuolization, mitochondrial swelling, and formation of myelin-like structures. Biochemical results showed changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species content, lipid peroxidation, and plasma membrane fluidity. In addition, the formation of autophagic vacuoles was observed. These findings indicate that BTU-1, BTU-2, and BTU-3 induced profound morphological, ultrastructural, and biochemical alterations in epimastigote forms, triggering an autophagic-dependent cell death pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nearly half of the world's population is at risk of being infected by Plasmodium falciparum, the pathogen of malaria. Increasing resistance to common antimalarial drugs has encouraged investigations to find compounds with different scaffolds. Extracts of Artocarpus altilis leaves have previously been reported to exhibit in vitro antimalarial activity against P. falciparum and in vivo activity against P. berghei. Despite these initial promising results, the active compound from A. altilis is yet to be identified. Here, we have identified 2-geranyl-2′, 4′, 3, 4-tetrahydroxy-dihydrochalcone (1) from A. altilis leaves as the active constituent of its antimalarial activity. Since natural chalcones have been reported to inhibit food vacuole and mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), the morphological changes in food vacuole and biochemical inhibition of ETC enzymes of (1) were investigated. In the presence of (1), intraerythrocytic asexual development was impaired, and according to the TEM analysis, this clearly affected the ultrastructure of food vacuoles. Amongst the ETC enzymes, (1) inhibited the mitochondrial malate: quinone oxidoreductase (PfMQO), and no inhibition could be observed on dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) as well as bc1 complex activities. Our study suggests that (1) has a dual mechanism of action affecting the food vacuole and inhibition of PfMQO-related pathways in mitochondria.

Endocrine disorders are an extremely urgent medical and social problem of modern society. Changes in the thyroid gland activity cause violations of the regulation of metabolism in periodontal tissues. Expressed clinical signs of periodontal tissues inflammation directly depend on the severity and duration of disorders of the functional state of the thyroid gland. The purpose of this study was to describe the ultrastructural changes of periodontal tissues under the conditions of experimental periodontitis in combination with hypothyroidism. To model periodontitis lipopolysaccharide was injected into the gum tissue of rats. The experimental thyroid gland hypofunction was simulated using intragastrical administration of mercazolyl. To confirm the state of hypothyroidism we determined the content of free thyroxine, free triiodothyronine and thyroid-stimulating hormone. Submicroscopic studies revealed profound destructive-degenerative changes in all components of the periodontium. Changes in periodontal tissues in experimental hypothyroidism are stereotyped: dystrophic, atrophic and destructive changes in parenchymal structures, mucinous edema of the stroma, mild reparative processes. Thus, it can be concluded that during experimental periodontitis in combination with hypothyroidism, there are violations of the functioning of all the components of the vessels of the periodontal microcirculatory channel. This is manifested by damage and deformation of the blood vessel wall with desquamation of the endothelium, edema, thinning of the basement membrane, stasis, thrombosis and spasm. Also, significant destruction and lysis of fibrous structures and components of the connective tissue amorphous substance in the lamina propria of the attached and free part of gums and periodontium are characteristic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmissive viral proventriculitis (TVP) is a new avian disease, the etiology and pathogenesis and diagnostics of which remain unidentified, being therefore a subject of an active ongoing discussion among researchers and veterinary doctors. Cases of the disease have been reported and registered in many countries of the world. On poultry farms of Ukraine, this disease started to be diagnosed in 2019, according to the characteristic pathognomic changes. The article presents the results of pathoanatomical, histological and electronic-microscopical studies of the glandular part of the stomach of 62 ill broiler chickens aged 24-28 days and 7 clinical healthy broiler chickens of the same age. The samples of the proventriculus from the infected and clinically healthy chickens were fixated in 10% aqueous solution of neutral formalin and in 1.5% solution of glutaraldehyde in 0.2 molar cacodylate buffer (pH 7.2). Pathoanatomic necropsy of the infected broiler chickens revealed overall anemia, decrease in the volume of the spleen, thymus and fecal sac. In the glandular part of the stomach, the wall was slightly thickened, non-homogenously stained on the section, the mucous membrane being swollen, covered by dense whitish mucous. According to the histological study, the proventriculus of the broiler chickens had lymphocytic necrotizing proventriculitis. In the tubular-alveolar structures of the mucous membrane, there prevailed alteration of the secretory epithelium, with its transformation into ductal epithelium, combined with lymphocytic infiltration of the interstitium. Intensive necrosis of most glandular (oxynticopeptic) cells was accompanied by their exfoliation from the basal membrane of the secretory parts, with desquamated cells accumulating in enlarged lumens of alveoli and excretory ducts. Further, necrotized oxynticopeptic cells in the tubular-alveolar glands were actively replaced by cylindrical ductal cells, and also their hyperplasia and hypertrophy occurred. Diffusive and multifocal interalveolar round-cell infiltrates were mostly presented by lymphocytes, among which there occurred plasmocytes, macrophages, and heterophils. Ultrastructural studies of secretory cells revealed presence of pathogen virions in nucleus and cytoplasm. Based on the morphological changesin the birds’ proventriculus, we diagnosed transmissive viral proventriculitis, which had notbeen recorded in Ukraine before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nearly half of the world's population is at risk of being infected by Plasmodium falciparum, the pathogen of malaria. Increasing resistance to common antimalarial drugs has encouraged investigations to find compounds with different scaffolds. Extracts of Artocarpus altilis leaves have previously been reported to exhibit in vitro antimalarial activity against P. falciparum and in vivo activity against P. berghei. Despite these initial promising results, the active compound from A. altilis is yet to be identified. Here, we have identified 2-geranyl-2′, 4′, 3, 4-tetrahydroxy-dihydrochalcone (1) from A. altilis leaves as the active constituent of its antimalarial activity. Since natural chalcones have been reported to inhibit food vacuole and mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), the morphological changes in food vacuole and biochemical inhibition of ETC enzymes of (1) were investigated. In the presence of (1), intraerythrocytic asexual development was impaired, and according to the TEM analysis, this clearly affected the ultrastructure of food vacuoles. Amongst the ETC enzymes, (1) inhibited the mitochondrial malate: quinone oxidoreductase (Pf MQO), and no inhibition could be observed on dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) as well as bc 1 complex activities. Our study suggests that (1) has a dual mechanism of action affecting the food vacuole and inhibition of Pf MQO-related pathways in mitochondria. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a chemotherapeutic drug that has a harmful effect on the immune system. Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone that can enhance thymic functions in cases of immunosuppression. Therefore, the present study was performed to study the possible protective effect of growth hormone on cyclophosphamide-induced changes in the rat thymus gland. Sixty-four adult male albino rats were used and divided into three main groups. Group I (Control group). Group II (CP group) received 200 mg/kg body weight CP by a single intra-peritoneal injection. Group III (CP& GH group) received GH in a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight/day by subcutaneous injection starting 5 days before cyclophosphamide injection till the end of the experiment. Administration of CP (Group II) resulted in marked histopathological changes in thymus. Thymic cortex showed depletion of thymoblasts. There was a decrease in CD34 immune positively stained stem cells and an increase in CD68 immune positively stained macrophages. Ultrastructurally, thymoblasts were markedly degenerated and the most of epithelial reticular cells were vacuolated. Administration of GH (group III) showed preservation of the histological structure of the thymus. In conclusion, growth hormone could protect against cyclophosphamide induced thymic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the classes of the plant developmental programmed cell death (PCD) is vacuolar cell death or autolysis. The results of the transmission electron microscope (TEM) studies indicated that this type of PCD occurs during the petal senescence of Antirrhinum majus "Legend White" flowers. The major hallmarks of the process related to the ultrastructure of the cells involved chloroplast degradation, vacuolation, chromatin condensation, cell wall swelling, degradation of Golgi apparatus, protoplasmic shrinkage, degradation of the endoplasmic reticulum, nuclear fragmentation, rupture of tonoplast, and plasma membrane. Macroautophagy and microautophagy processes were also clearly observed during vacuole formation. As in yeasts, in the present study, Golgi apparatus became autophagosome-like structures during degradation that had autophagy activity and then disappeared. Our results revealed a type of selective microautophagy, piecemeal microautophagy of the nucleus (PMN), in nuclear degradation during PCD of petals that has not previously been reported in plants. Moreover, vesicular structures, such as paramural and multilamellar bodies, were observed in some stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asparagus samples were examined from growing areas of Germany and selected European as well as North, Central and South American countries. Overall, 474 samples were analyzed for Asparagus virus 1 (AV1) using DAS-ELISA. In our survey, 19 AV1 isolates were further characterized. Experimental transmission to 11 species belonging to Aizoaceae, Amarantaceae, Asparagaceae, and Solanaceae succeeded. The ultrastructure of AV1 infection in asparagus has been revealed and has been compared with the one in indicator plants. The cylindrical inclusion (CI) protein, a core factor in viral replication, localized within the cytoplasm and in systemic infections adjacent to the plasmodesmata. The majority of isolates referred to pathotype I (PI). These triggered a hypersensitive resistance in inoculated leaves of Chenopodium spp. and were incapable of infecting Nicotiana spp. Only pathotype II (PII) and pathotype III (PIII) infected Nicotiana benthamiana systemically but differed in their virulence when transmitted to Chenopodium spp. The newly identified PIII generated amorphous inclusion bodies and degraded chloroplasts during systemic infection but not in local lesions of infected Chenopodium spp. PIII probably evolved via recombination in asparagus carrying a mixed infection by PI and PII. Phylogeny of the coat protein region recognized two clusters, which did not overlap with the CI-associated grouping of pathotypes. These results provide evidence for ongoing modular evolution of AV1.

The demand for nanoparticles is increasing tremendously, and so is the risk of their foreseeable discharge into the environment. Nanoparticles contain a variety of features, including anti-microbial properties, and have been shown to have toxic effects on aquatic organisms previously. However, the causes of nanoparticle toxicity under environmental conditions are still unknown. Exposure to nanoparticles in the environment is unavoidable as nanomaterials are used more prevalent in our daily lives, and as a result, nanotoxicity research is gaining traction. To understand the impact of nanoparticle toxicity on aquatic biota, cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are an ideal model system. The cyanobacteria play an important role in ecological balance, nutrient cycling, energy flow, biological nitrogen fixation, and environmental remediation, and their susceptibility to nanoparticles can help in making a wise strategy for the mitigation of possible nano-pollution. This article presents an analysis of recent research findings on the toxicological influences of nanoparticles on the growth rate, biochemical changes, ultra-structural changes as well as the nanoparticle toxicity mechanisms in cyanobacteria. The finding suggests that the shading effect, generation of reactive oxygen species, membrane damage and disintegration of pigments are the main reasons for nanoparticle toxicity to the cyanobacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The laser therapy has been used as an adjuvant for conventional periodontal disease as they exhibit a bactericidal effect on scaling and root planning by its thermal and photo disruptive effects on the pathogens. This study focuses on the structural and compositional changes induced on the root surfaces of teeth following diode laser (DL) application with increasing quantum of exposure time. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the structural and compositional changes on the root surface of extracted human permanent teeth after application of DLs (810 nm) with varying time interval. Materials and Methods: Twenty samples of single-rooted periodontally compromised extracted teeth were utilized for this study. Root planning was done and the roughness caused by the instrumentation was measured using profilometric analysis. Then, the samples were divided into four groups, with DL application time: Group 1 -- laser application for 15 s, Group 2 -- laser application for 30 s, Group 3 -- laser application for 45 s, and Group 4 -- laser application for 60 s. A scanning electron microscope was used to examine the cemental surface and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis software assesses the compositional changes of the teeth in each group. Results: This study reveals that on exposure of DL (810 nm) on the root surface when time of exposure increases, there were relative increases in surface irregularities and charring. There were significant changes in the chemical composition of the tooth surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) could be dangerous and pollute the environment due to their high migration ability, robust bioavailability, and acute toxicity to soil biota and plants. Considering the above characteristics of these elements, the study's aim was to explore the individual and combined impact of Cd and Zn contamination of Haplic Chernozem on growing two-row spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). The accumulation and distribution of Cd and Zn in various parts of H. vulgare have also been studied, which showed that Cd accumulation by H. vulgare occurred more intensely than that by Zn up to eight times. Cadmium and Zn suppress plant growth up to two times, more effect was noted by the combined impact of Cd and Zn. The study of plant morphological characteristics revealed that growth suppression and structural changes in the root and leaf tissues increased in proportion to Cd and Zn concentrations. Detailed analysis of the localizations of Zn and Cd in various organelles of H. vulgare cells was performed. Heavy metals change the ultrastructure of prominent energy-producing organelles in leaf cells, especially chloroplasts and mitochondria. Overall, the current findings offer insights into phytotoxicity induced by Cd and Zn individual application as well as in combination with the H. vulgare plant. Zinc showed protective effects against high doses of Cd under the combined application. These antagonistic interactions reduce their accessibility to H. vulgare. The present work can be useful in restricting the entry of these elements into the food chain and preventing creating a threat to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspartame (ASP) is an artificial sweeter. Chronic use of ASP has a harmful effect on cerebellar cortex. Anisum oil and selenium (SE) are antioxidant substances. Therefore, the present study was performed to study the possible protective role of anisum oil versus selenium on aspartame-induced changes in rat cerebellar cortex. Rats were divided into four main groups. Group I (Control group). Group II received 250 mg/kg/day aspartame once daily for 2 months. Group III received 0.5 ml/kg/day anisum 2 h before aspartame administration. Group IV received 0.5 mg/kg/day selenium 2 h before aspartame administration. The administration of Asp for 2 months (group II) resulted in cerebellar histopathological changes in the form of deformed Purkinje and granule cells. Ultrastructurally, Purkinje cells had irregular nuclei, dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, dilated saccules of Golgi apparatus, mitochondria with destroyed cristae. In addition, granule cells appeared shrunken with irregular nuclei. Aspartame and anisum oil treated group (group III) showed partial improvement. Examination of ASP and SE treated group (group IV) showed that cerebellar cortex was nearly similar to control. In conclusion, Anisum oil and selenium could protect against ASP-induced cerebellar damage. The protective effect of selenium is better than anisum oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart) is an Amazon plant with many biological properties. Previous report of this group evidenced autophagy induction after treatment with açaí seed extract in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines by acridine orange assay. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ultrastructural changes induced by açaí seed extract in MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. First, MCF- 7 breast cancer cell line viability was evaluated by MTT assay. Acridine orange assay showed increase in the acidic compartments, suggesting autophagolysosome formation. These cells were treated with 25 μg/ml for 24 h and evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (MET). This analysis showed that açaí seed extract induced autophagy, confirmed by autophagolysosome formation. Furthermore, açaí seed extract increased the number of mitochondria, suggesting the enrollment of reactive oxygen species in autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For decades, only two nitroheterocyclic drugs have been used as therapeutic agents for Chagas disease. However, these drugs present limited effectiveness during the chronic phase, possess unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties, and induce severe adverse effects, resulting in low treatment adherence. A previous study reported that N-(cyclohexylcarbamothioyl) benzamide (BTU-1), N-(tert-butylcarbamothioyl) benzamide (BTU-2), and (4-bromo-N-(3-nitrophenyl) carbamothioyl benzamide (BTU-3) present selective antiprotozoal activity against all developmental forms of Trypanosoma cruzi Y strain. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of action of these compounds through microscopy and biochemical analyses. Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed nuclear disorganization, changes in the plasma membrane with the appearance of blebs and extracellular arrangements, intense vacuolization, mitochondrial swelling, and formation of myelin-like structures. Biochemical results showed changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species content, lipid peroxidation, and plasma membrane fluidity. In addition, the formation of autophagic vacuoles was observed. These findings indicate that BTU-1, BTU-2, and BTU-3 induced profound morphological, ultrastructural, and biochemical alterations in epimastigote forms, triggering an autophagic-dependent cell death pathway.

In this study, essential oils (EOs) and hydrolates (Hys) from Italian hemp (Cannabis sativa L. Kompolti cv.) and hop (Humulus Lupulus L., Chinook cv.) supply chains were chemically characterized and tested to investigate their apoptotic potential for the first time. Headspace–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) techniques were performed to describe their volatile chemical profile, highlighting a composition rich in terpene derivatives such as monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes among which β-myrcene, limonene, β-caryophyllene and α-humulene were the main constituents of EOs; in contrast, linalool, cis-p-menth-2,8-dien-1-ol, terpinen-4-ol, α-terpineol, caryophyllene oxide, and τ-cadinol were found in the Hys. The cytotoxicity activity on human leukemia cells (HL60), human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y), human metastatic adenocarcinoma breast cells (MCF7), human adenocarcinoma breast cells (MDA), and normal breast epithelial cell (MCF10A) for the EOs and Hys was studied by MTT assay and cytofluorimetric analysis and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed to define ultrastructural changes and the mechanism of cells death for HL 60 cells. An induction of the apoptotic mechanism was evidenced for hemp and hop EOs after treatment with the corresponding EC50 dose. In addition, TEM and SEM investigations revealed typical characteristics induced by the apoptotic pathway. Therefore, thanks to the integration of the applied methodologies with the used techniques, this work provides an overview on the metabolomic profile and the apoptotic potential of hemp and hop EOs and, for the first time, also of Hys. The findings of this preliminary study confirm that the EOs and Hys from Cannabis and Humulus species are sources of bioactive molecules with multiple biological effects yet to be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the histological and (ultra)structural stromal tissue changes after femtosecond (Fs) laser–assisted intracorneal ring segment (ICRS) implantation and their refractive and topographic effects in patients with keratoconus. Methods: This monocentric retrospective case series included 15 consecutive patients with clinical peri-segmental lamellar channel deposits after treatment with Fs-ICRS implantation for keratoconus. The stromal changes were investigated using in vivo confocal microscopy. Two patients underwent a penetrating keratoplasty after the Fs-ICRS implantation; the explanted corneas were processed for histopathology and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Refractive and topographic effects were investigated comparing the uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity, spherical equivalent (SE), flat (K1), steep (K2), and steepest (Kmax) keratometry before and after detection of lamellar channel deposits. Results: In vivo confocal microscopy revealed diffuse linear and focal granular hyperreflective structures. Histologically, there was mild proliferation of fibroblasts and fibrosis. TEM demonstrated focal accumulations of degenerated keratocytes with cytoplasmic lipid inclusions. There were no significant changes for UDVA (Δ = 0.0 ± 0.2 logMAR; p = 0.67), CDVA (Δ = 0.0 ± 0.1 logMAR; p = 0.32), SE (Δ 0.1 ± 0.9 D; p = 0.22), K1 (Δ = 0.3 ± 1.0 D; p = 0.28), K2 (Δ = 0.1 ± 0.9 D; p = 0.51), and Kmax (Δ = 0.3 ± 1.5 D; p = 0.17). Conclusions: Two types of structural stromal changes were identified: (1) diffuse peri-segmental fibrosis and (2) lamellar channel deposits. These structural changes showed no evidence of a relevant refractive or topographic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Khat (Catha edulis Forssk) plant has been widely chewed for its psychostimulatory effects in the African and Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Yemen. Considering the khat leaves are gradually chewed without swallowing, while its active constituents are extracted into saliva, studying the effect of khat on salivary glands is necessary. This work is an extension of the previously published work that studied the effect of khat extract on the rats' submandibular salivary glands in terms of histological and immunohistochemical evaluations. The current research note aimed to better understand this effect on the ultrastructure of submandibular salivary gland cells by using transmission electron microscope. Results Oral administration of khat extract produced degenerative changes in the secretory and ductal cells of rats' submandibular salivary glands. These changes involved irregular boundaries of variable sized-nuclei, dilated RER, cytoplasmic vacuoles as well as swollen and degenerated mitochondria.

There are various substances that can disrupt the homeostatic mechanisms of the body, defined as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The persistent nature of microplastics (MPs) is a cause for concern due to their ability to accumulate in food chains and widespread use, making their toxic effects particularly alarming. The potential of MPs for disrupting the endocrine system was observed in multiple tissues. Moreover, the adrenal gland is known to be extremely sensitive to EDCs, while with the effect of MPs on the adrenal gland has not previously been studied. This study aimed to highlight the potential polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) induced adreno-toxic effects rather than exploring the implicated mechanisms and concluding if melatonin (Mel) can afford protection against PE-MPs induced adreno-toxicity. To fulfill the goal, six groups of rats were used; control, Mel, PE-MPs (3.75 mg/kg), PE-MPs (15 mg/kg), PE-MPs (3.75 mg/kg) +Mel, and PE-MPs (15 mg/kg) +Mel. PE-MPs induced toxic changes in the adrenal cortex, which was evident by increased adrenal weight, histopathological examination, and ultrastructural changes detected by electron microscope. A reduction in serum cortisol and an increase in serum adrenocorticotropic hormone resulted from the adreno-toxic effects of PE-MPs. Mechanisms may include the reduction of steroidogenesis-related genes, as PE-MPs drastically reduce mRNA levels of StAR, Nr0b1, Cyp11A1, as well as Cyp11B1. Also, oxidative stress that results from PE-MPs is associated with higher rates of lipid peroxidation and decreased superoxide dismutase and glutathione. PE-MPs inflammatory effect was illustrated by elevated expression of IL-1β and NF-ķB, detected by immunohistochemical staining, in addition to increased expression of caspase-3 and mRNA of Bax, markers of proapoptotic activity. The impacts of PE-MPs were relatively dose-related, with the higher dose showing more significant toxicity than the lower one. Mel treatment was associated with a substantial amelioration of PE-MPs-induced toxic changes. Collectively, this study fills the knowledge gap about the MPs-induced adrenal cortex and elucidates various related toxic mechanisms. It also supports Mel's potential protective activity through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and gene transcription regulatory effects. [Display omitted] • The first study reports polyethylene microplastics-induced adrenal toxicity in rats. • A reduction in serum cortisol and an increase in serum ACTH resulted from adreno-toxic effects of (PE)-MPs. • PE-MPs inflammatory effect was illustrated by elevated expression of IL-1β and NF-ķB. • Melatonin treatment was associated with a substantial amelioration of PE-MPs-induced toxic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for relatively safe pesticides to control pests continues to reduce the damage they cause and avoid the negative effects of pesticides on the environment. The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, is the most dangerous pest on palm trees of all kinds, especially in arid areas. Ivermectin (IVM), an analog of abamectin, shows physiological efficacy against insects at very low concentrations. This study was performed to evaluate the biochemical and histopathological effects of sublethal concentrations of IVM on cells of the testes and ovaries of R. ferrugineus. Mortality resulting from feeding IVM at concentrations of 2, 1, 0.5 0.25, 0.125 and 0.0625 ppm was estimated. The LC50 was calculated as 0.685 ppm for males and 1.23 ppm for females. Feeding the males and females at sublethal concentrations of 0.0625 ppm (LC15 for females, LC21 for males), 0.125 ppm (LC21 for females, LC28 for males) and 0.25 ppm (LC29 for females, LC37 for males) resulted in IVM concentration-dependent decreases in the activity of acetylcholinesterase and catalase and the content of glutathione accompanied by an increase in malondialdehyde. The histopathological effects of IVM concentrations of 0.25, 1 and 2 ppm indicate that IVM induced apoptosis in subcellular organelles of the testis and ovary. In conclusion, the results of this study revealed that sublethal IVM at 0.0625 ppm or higher induced reproductive toxicity in the RPW via redox disruptions and apoptotic cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a promising class of compounds being developed against multi-drug resistant bacteria. Hybridization has been reported to increase antimicrobial activity. Here, two proline-rich peptides (consP1: VRKPPYLPRPRPRPL-CONH2 and Bac5-v291: RWRRPIRRRPIRPPFWR-CONH2) were combined with two arginine-isoleucine-rich peptides (optP1: KIILRIRWR-CONH2 and optP7: KRRVRWIIW-CONH2). Proline-rich antimicrobial peptides (PrAMPs) are known to inhibit the bacterial ribosome, shown also for Bac5-v291, whereas it is hypothesized a "dirty drug" model for the arginine-isoleucine-rich peptides. That hypothesis was underpinned by transmission electron microscopy and biological small-angle X-ray scattering (BioSAXS). The strength of BioSAXS is the power to detect ultrastructural changes in millions of cells in a short time (seconds) in a high-throughput manner. This information can be used to classify antimicrobial compounds into groups according to the ultrastructural changes they inflict on bacteria and how the bacteria react towards that assault. Based on previous studies, this correlates very well with different modes of action. Due to the novelty of this approach direct identification of the target of the antimicrobial compound is not yet fully established, more research is needed. More research is needed to address this limitation. The hybrid peptides showed a stronger antimicrobial activity compared to the proline-rich peptides, except when compared to Bac5-v291 against E. coli. The increase in activity compared to the arginine-isoleucine-rich peptides was up to 6-fold, however, it was not a general increase but was dependent on the combination of peptides and bacteria. BioSAXS experiments revealed that proline-rich peptides and arginine-isoleucine-rich peptides induce very different ultrastructural changes in E. coli , whereas a hybrid peptide (hyP7B5GK) shows changes, different to both parental peptides and the untreated control. These different ultrastructural changes indicated that the mode of action of the parental peptides might be different from each other as well as from the hybrid peptide hyP7B5GK. All peptides showed very low haemolytic activity, some of them showed a 100-fold or larger therapeutic window, demonstrating the potential for further drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals' amassment in the soil environment is a threat to crop and agricultural sustainability and consequentially the global food security. For achieving enhancement of crop productivity in parallel to reducing chromium (Cr) load onto food chain demands continuous investigation and efforts to develop cost-effective strategies for maximizing crop yield and quality. In this context, we investigated the amelioration of Cr(VI) toxicity through β-pinene in experimental dome simulating natural field conditions. The protective role of β-pinene was determined on physiology, morphology and ultrastructure in Zea mays under Cr(VI) stress (250 and 500 μM). Results exhibited a marked reduction in the overall growth (shoot and root length and dry matter) of Z. mays plants subjected to Cr(VI) stress. Photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids) were evidently reduced, and there was a loss of membrane integrity. Supplementation of β-pinene (100 μM), however, declined the toxicity induced by Cr(VI). Interestingly, Cr-tolerant abilities were improved in relation to plant growth, photosynthetic pigments and membrane integrity with the combined treatment of Cr(VI) and β-pinene. β-Pinene also reduced the root-mediated uptake of Cr(VI) and translocation to shoots. Moreover, significant ultrastructural damages recorded in roots and shoots under Cr(VI) stress were partially reverted upon addition of β-pinene. Our analyses revealed that β-pinene mitigates Cr(VI) toxicity in Z. mays, either by membrane stabilization or serving as a barrier to the uptake of Cr from soil. Thus, exogenous supply of β-pinene can be an effective alternative to mitigate Cr toxicity in soil. However, it is deemed essential to investigate further the responses throughout the life cycle of the plant on β-pinene supplementation under natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aroclor 1254 (A1254), a mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls, exerts hepatic, renal, and reproductive toxicity in rodents. This study aimed to determine a protective role of selenium on histopathological changes, oxidative stress, and apoptosis caused by A1254 in rat kidney. It included a control group, which received regular diet containing 0.15 mg/kg Se (C), a Se-supplemented group (SeS) receiving 1 mg/kg Se, a Se-deficient group (SeD) receiving Se-deficient diet of ≤0.05 mg/kg Se, an A1254-treated group (A) receiving 10 mg/kg of Aroclor 1254 and regular diet, an A1254-treated group receiving Se-supplementation (ASeS), and an A1254-treated group receiving Se-deficient diet (ASeD). Treatments lasted 15 days. After 24 h of the last dose of A1254, the animals were decapitated under anaesthesia and their renal antioxidant enzyme activities, lipid peroxidation (LP), glutathione, protein oxidation, and total antioxidant capacity levels measured. Histopathological changes were evaluated by light and electron microscopy. Apoptosis was detected with the TUNEL assay. Kidney weights, CAT activities, and GSH levels decreased significantly in all A1254-treated groups. Renal atrophic changes and higher apoptotic cell counts were observed in the A and ASeD groups. Both groups also showed a significant drop in GPx1 activities (A – 34.92 % and ASeD – 86.46 %) and rise in LP (A – 30.45 % and ASeD – 20.44 %) vs control. In contrast, LP levels and apoptotic cell counts were significantly lower in the ASeS group vs the A group. Histopathological changes and renal apoptosis were particularly visible in the ASeD group. Our findings suggest that selenium supplementation provides partial protection against renal toxicity of Aroclor 1254.

Enzootic pneumonia caused by hyopneumoniae (MHYO) remains a serious concern to the swine industry in many countries including Nigeria. MHYO strains isolated from pigs from different countries and geographical locations are known to vary in pathogenicity. There is a paucity of information on the pathogenicity of the MHYO strain affecting pigs in Nigeria. This study investigated the pathogenicity of the MHYO strain in naturally infected pigs using immunohisto-chemistry and electron microscopy. Two hundred and sixty four lungs of slaughtered pigs were randomly collected from abattoirs at Abeokuta, Ibadan and Lagos, in Southwest Nigeria. A sub-sample of 104 pneumonic and 20 apparently normal lungs was selected, processed for routine histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry, while 3 lung tissues samples were selected for ultrastructural studies. The most significant microscopic changes observed were suppurative broncho-interstitial pneumonia associated with varying degrees of lymphoid hyperplasia of the bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) and thickened alveolar septa due to cellular infiltration consisting predominantly of neutrophils and a few mononuclear cells. Immunohistochemically, MHYO antigen was detected in 86/104 (82.69 %) of MHYO-infected lung tissues and typically exhibited a granular brown reaction on the bronchial and bronchiolar epithelial lining, mononuclear cells in the BALT and luminal cellular exudates within the airways. Transmission electron microscopy revealed numerous Mycoplasma organisms in the lumina of the airways, in between degenerated cilia, while a few Mycoplasmas were located within the alveoli. It was concluded that the MHYO strain detected in this study was pathogenic to pigs and capable of inducing pneumonia, and therefore implicated in the pathogenesis.

Usha Singh Gaharwar, Ramovatar Meena, Paulraj Rajamani School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, IndiaCorrespondence: Paulraj RajamaniSchool of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, IndiaTel +91 11 2670 4162Email paulrajr@hotmail.comIntroduction: Nanoparticles are used worldwide because of their unique properties, with large-scale application in various fields, such as medicine, cosmetics and industries. In view of their widespread use, the potential adverse effects of nanoparticles have become a significant cause for concern, in terms of not only human health and safety but also the environment. The present investigation focused on establishing the bioaccumulation patterns and ultrastructural changes induced by retained iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) in various target organs of rats.Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. Experimental animals were intravenously administered different doses of IONPs (7.5 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg) once in a week for 4 weeks. Urine and feces samples were collected on a daily basis to assess nanoparticle clearance and analyzed via atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). At the end of the experiment, rats were euthanized and different organs, including spleen, liver, kidney, lung, heart, testis and brain, were dissected. Bioaccumulation of iron in organs and ultrastructural changes induced by IONPs were determined.Results: The maximal concentration of iron was detected in spleen and minimal concentration in the brain. The level of iron accumulation in organs was as follows: spleen>blood>liver>kidney>lung>heart>testis>brain. The excretion profile in urine revealed maximum excretion on the day following administration that was maintained until day 28, whereas the iron content in feces remained high during the first three days after injection. A similar pattern was observed throughout the duration of the experiment. Ultrastructural alterations were detected in spleen, kidney, lung, heart, testis, brain and liver, indicative of cellular damage induced by accumulating nanoparticles in these organs.Conclusion: Intravenous administration of IONPs results in ultrastructural changes and dose-dependent bioaccumulation in different organs of rats.Keywords: metal oxide nanoparticles, bioaccumulation, ultrastructural changes, toxicity, metabolic cages

Heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) could be dangerous and pollute the environment due to their high migration ability, robust bioavailability, and acute toxicity to soil biota and plants. Considering the above characteristics of these elements, the study’s aim was to explore the individual and combined impact of Cd and Zn contamination of Haplic Chernozem on growing two-row spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). The accumulation and distribution of Cd and Zn in various parts of H. vulgare have also been studied, which showed that Cd accumulation by H. vulgare occurred more intensely than that by Zn up to eight times. Cadmium and Zn suppress plant growth up to two times, more effect was noted by the combined impact of Cd and Zn. The study of plant morphological characteristics revealed that growth suppression and structural changes in the root and leaf tissues increased in proportion to Cd and Zn concentrations. Detailed analysis of the localizations of Zn and Cd in various organelles of H. vulgare cells was performed. Heavy metals change the ultrastructure of prominent energy-producing organelles in leaf cells, especially chloroplasts and mitochondria. Overall, the current findings offer insights into phytotoxicity induced by Cd and Zn individual application as well as in combination with the H. vulgare plant. Zinc showed protective effects against high doses of Cd under the combined application. These antagonistic interactions reduce their accessibility to H. vulgare. The present work can be useful in restricting the entry of these elements into the food chain and preventing creating a threat to human health.

In our work, we studied the ultrastructural organization of rat laryngeal mucosa and cartilage at the end of 35 and 42 days of experimental opioid exposure and at the end of 56 days with opioid withdrawal. As a result of our study at the end of the 35th day at the ultrastructural level revealed hypersecretion of goblet cells, mucus contained impurities of lymphocytes, single neutrophils and erythrocytes. In the enlarged lumens of the hemocapillaries of the lamina propria of the mucous membrane and submucosal base of different parts of the larynx, the adhesion of erythrocytes was noted. At the end of 42 days in rats, the changes were characterized by moderate damage to cytoplasmic organelles in epitheliocytes. Alternative changes developed in the chondrocytes of elastic and hyaline cartilages. Marked by an increase in the number of active fibroblasts, next to which were numerous fibrils of collagen fibers. The main substance of connective tissue, near dilated vessels, was impregnated with transudate, which was accompanied by the development of perivasal edema. Glycogen grains and vacuoles filled with neutral fats were visualized in the cytoplasm of chondrocytes.At the end of 56 days in rats with two-week withdrawal of the opioid analgesic, we found the development of alternative processes in the epitheliocytes of different parts of the larynx, as well as in chondrocytes, especially in elastic cartilage. Dyscirculatory processes in vessels of own plate of a mucous membrane and a submucous basis of various departments of a larynx were registered. Necrotic changes developed in the columnar epitheliocytes of the submucosal mucosa. Mitochondria swelled, their matrix brightened, cristae collapsed. The results of the article correspond to the research plan of Danylo Halytskyi Lviv National Medical University and are part of the research topic of the Department of Normal Anatomy "Morphofunctional features of organs in pre - and postnatal periods of ontogenesis, under the influence of opioids, food supplements, reconstructive surgery and obesity" 0120U002129) during 2020 - 2024.

In this study, essential oils (EOs) and hydrolates (Hys) from Italian hemp (Cannabis sativa L. Kompolti cv.) and hop (Humulus Lupulus L., Chinook cv.) supply chains were chemically characterized and tested to investigate their apoptotic potential for the first time. Headspace–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) techniques were performed to describe their volatile chemical profile, highlighting a composition rich in terpene derivatives such as monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes among which β-myrcene, limonene, β-caryophyllene and α-humulene were the main constituents of EOs; in contrast, linalool, cis-p-menth-2,8-dien-1-ol, terpinen-4-ol, α-terpineol, caryophyllene oxide, and τ-cadinol were found in the Hys. The cytotoxicity activity on human leukemia cells (HL60), human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y), human metastatic adenocarcinoma breast cells (MCF7), human adenocarcinoma breast cells (MDA), and normal breast epithelial cell (MCF10A) for the EOs and Hys was studied by MTT assay and cytofluorimetric analysis and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed to define ultrastructural changes and the mechanism of cells death for HL 60 cells. An induction of the apoptotic mechanism was evidenced for hemp and hop EOs after treatment with the corresponding EC50 dose. In addition, TEM and SEM investigations revealed typical characteristics induced by the apoptotic pathway. Therefore, thanks to the integration of the applied methodologies with the used techniques, this work provides an overview on the metabolomic profile and the apoptotic potential of hemp and hop EOs and, for the first time, also of Hys. The findings of this preliminary study confirm that the EOs and Hys from Cannabis and Humulus species are sources of bioactive molecules with multiple biological effects yet to be explored.

Intestinal parasites are a global problem, mainly in developing countries. Obtaining information about plants and compounds that can combat gastrointestinal disorders and gastrointestinal symptoms is a fundamental first step in designing new treatment strategies. In this study, we analyzed the antiamoebic activity of the aerial part of Croton sonorae. The dichloromethane fraction of C. sonorae (CsDCMfx) contained flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids, and glycosides. The ultrastructural morphology of the amoebae treated for 72 h with CsDCMfx was completely abnormal. CsDCMfx reduced erythrophagocytosis of trophozoites and the expression of genes involved in erythrocyte adhesion (gal/galnac lectin) and actin cytoskeleton rearrangement in the phagocytosis pathway (rho1 gtpase and formin1). Interestingly, CsDCMfx decreased the expression of genes involved in Entamoeba histolytica trophozoite pathogenesis, such as cysteine proteases (cp1, cp4, and cp5), sod, pfor, and enolase. These results showed that C. sonorae is a potential source of antiamoebic compounds.

Intestinal parasites are a global problem, mainly in developing countries. Obtaining information about plants and compounds that can combat gastrointestinal disorders and gastrointestinal symptoms is a fundamental first step in designing new treatment strategies. In this study, we analyzed the antiamoebic activity of the aerial part of Croton sonorae. The dichloromethane fraction of C. sonorae (CsDCMfx) contained flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids, and glycosides. The ultrastructural morphology of the amoebae treated for 72 h with CsDCMfx was completely abnormal. CsDCMfx reduced erythrophagocytosis of trophozoites and the expression of genes involved in erythrocyte adhesion (gal/galnac lectin) and actin cytoskeleton rearrangement in the phagocytosis pathway (rho1 gtpase and formin1). Interestingly, CsDCMfx decreased the expression of genes involved in Entamoeba histolytica trophozoite pathogenesis, such as cysteine proteases (cp1 , cp4 , and cp5), sod , pfor , and enolase. These results showed that C. sonorae is a potential source of antiamoebic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of ∑16 priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) for soils, roots, and above-ground parts of reed (Phragmites australis Cav.) were determined on different monitoring plots located near the city of Kamensk-Shakhtinsky, southern Russia, where historically received industrial sewage and sludge. The total PAHs concentration in monitoring soil plots was significantly higher than those in the background site which situated at the distance of 2 km from the contamination source. Accordingly, the maximum accumulation was found for phenanthrene and chrysene among the 16 priority PAHs in most of the plant samples collected in the impact zone. The effects of PAHs' pollution on changes of Phragmites australis Cav. cellular and subcellular organelles in the studied monitoring sites were also determined using optical and electron microscopy, respectively. The obtained data showed that increasing of PAHs contamination negatively affected the ultrastructural changes of the studied plants. Phragmites australis Cav. showed a high level of adaptation to the effect of stressors by using tissue and cell levels. In general, the detected alterations under the PAHs effect were possibly connected to changes in biochemical and histochemical parameters as a response for reactive oxygen species and as a protective response against oxidative stress. The obtained results introduce innovative findings of cellular and subcellular changes in plants exposed to ∑16 priority PAHs as very persistent and toxic contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Khat (Catha edulis Forssk) plant has been widely chewed for its psychostimulatory effects in the African and Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Yemen. Considering the khat leaves are gradually chewed without swallowing, while its active constituents are extracted into saliva, studying the effect of khat on salivary glands is necessary. This work is an extension of the previously published work that studied the effect of khat extract on the rats' submandibular salivary glands in terms of histological and immunohistochemical evaluations. The current research note aimed to better understand this effect on the ultrastructure of submandibular salivary gland cells by using transmission electron microscope. Results: Oral administration of khat extract produced degenerative changes in the secretory and ductal cells of rats' submandibular salivary glands. These changes involved irregular boundaries of variable sized-nuclei, dilated RER, cytoplasmic vacuoles as well as swollen and degenerated mitochondria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]