Search Results (20,448)

Diaporthe eres is a harmful pathogen affecting Hongyang kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) after harvest, yet the antioxidant defense strategies are not well understood. This research thoroughly examines the dynamics of the antioxidant response during the infection process. Significant findings indicate an initial 3-day latent period (0–3 dpi) that allowed for pathogen establishment, followed by irreversible tissue breakdown characterized by water-soaked lesions at 4 dpi. The study identified a biphasic activation pattern of superoxide dismutase (SOD) with dual activity peaks (1 dpi and 4 dpi), orchestrated by mitochondrial hub gene CEY00_Acc02790 that coordinates peroxidase (POD) networks, while peroxidase (POD) activity exhibited a synchronized but temporary increase, peaking at 4 dpi. Further bioinformatic analysis revealed the possible functional specialization of POD isoforms: α-helix-rich extracellular variants drove cell wall reinforcement through lignification, while random coil-dominant intracellular variants formed to mitigate cytoplasmic reactive oxygen species (ROS) damage, establishing dual physicochemical barriers. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels rose significantly by 3 dpi, indicating permanent membrane damage. Collectively, these findings elucidate the mechanistic foundation of the Actinidia–Diaporthe pathosystem, identifying the bimodal SOD response and POD specialization as prime targets for developing resistant cultivars and precision postharvest interventions, ultimately reducing losses through biochemical interception of pathogenesis. Full article

Background: Present ACS risk stratification predominantly depends on LDL-C, yet its diagnostic accuracy for coronary plaque burden remains limited. We examined whether extensive lipid profiling, specifically the TG/HDL-C ratio, could function as a more effective diagnostic instrument for forecasting significant plaque burden in treatment-naïve first-time ACS patients. Methods: Among 722 ACS patients screened, 376 treatment-naïve patients undergoing PCI with complete lipid data were included. Exclusions (n = 346) were due to prior CAD, lipid-lowering therapy, renal/hepatic dysfunction, malignancy, pregnancy, or incomplete data. Coronary plaque burden was quantified by QCA, and patients were stratified by lesion count (0, 1, 2, 3, ≥4). The levels of lipids (LDL-C, HDL-C, TC, TG) and their ratios (LDL/HDL-C, TC/HDL-C, TG/HDL-C) were measured. Analyses included ANOVA (with Bonferroni correction), correlation, ordinal regression, and logistic regression (≥3 vs. <3 lesions). ROC analysis determined thresholds. Results: TG/HDL-C ratio increased progressively from 3.3 (0 lesions) to 5.3 (≥4 lesions). After Bonferroni correction, only TG/HDL-C retained significance (p = 0.009). Logistic regression confirmed TG/HDL-C as an independent predictor of high plaque burden (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.09–1.42, p = 0.004), outperforming LDL-C. Conclusions: TG/HDL-C ratio is a superior diagnostic biomarker compared to LDL-C for identifying extensive coronary plaque burden. Integration into admission lipid profiling offers a cost-effective, actionable tool. Full article

Background: The management of ovarian cysts in postmenopausal women is still a diagnostic dilemma. Although ultrasound is the diagnostic cornerstone of the initial assessment, it is limited by its interpretation in cases without clear morphological features of malignancy. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess whether the addition of grayscale ultrasound features with inflammatory markers including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) can improve diagnostic accuracy in the identification of malignant ovarian lesions as compared to benign cysts in postmenopausal women. Methods: A total of 103 surgically removed adnexal masses were examined retrospectively. Ultrasound morphology was categorized to either simple or complex while NLR and PLR were calculated from preoperative full blood counts. The reference standard was histopathology. Results: Of the 103 cysts taken out, 74 cysts (71.8%) were benign while 29 cysts (28.2%) were malignant. Complex morphology was shown by all malignant lesions. NLR values in malignancy vs. benignancy showed a mean NLR of 4.96 ± 2.3 in the malignant cases, while it was 2.56 ± 1.2 in the benign cases (p < 0.001). In a similar fashion, the PLR was 198.4 ± 45.1 in malignant compared to 134.2 ± 32.7 in benign cases (p < 0.001). In the group of complex cysts (n = 52), NLR and PLR were compared to differentiate between malignant and benign lesions. In logistic regression, complex morphology was an independent predictor of malignancy, while NLR showed a positive, non-significant trend; PLR was not independently associated. Conclusions: Use of NLR and PLR in combination with grayscale ultrasonographic morphology improves the diagnostic characterization of postmenopausal women with adnexal masses. This easy, cost-effective method might aid in better triage and surgery planning. Full article

This review highlights the anti-hyperglycemic and antidiabetic properties of camel and dromedary milk (CM). Diabetes mellitus poses a significant global health challenge, and strategies that reduce reliance on insulin or other medications could substantially improve patient management. CM could represent a promising complementary approach due to its established antidiabetic effects, which are supported by its unique biological characteristics. Compared to other common milks, such as bovine milk, CM contains higher concentrations of insulin. Its distinctive physicochemical and microstructural properties help protect insulin and other bioactive proteins from degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby enhancing their intestinal absorption. Furthermore, peptides generated during CM protein digestion may exert direct or indirect effects on the liver and pancreas, contributing to improved glucose metabolism. These beneficial actions are further supported by CM’s antioxidant and antilipidemic properties, which may help mitigate diabetes-related complications, including renal dysfunction and skin lesions. Full article

Background: Mesenteric cystic lymphatic malformations (MCLMs) are rare benign lymphatic malformations predominantly diagnosed in children. Adult cases are exceptional and typically discovered incidentally during imaging or surgery for unrelated conditions. Their intraoperative identification, particularly in emergency settings, poses diagnostic and surgical challenges due to anatomical complexity and potential vascular involvement. Methods: A literature review was performed in PubMed and Scopus to contextualize this case, focusing on intraoperative management strategies, recurrence risk, and surgical decision-making in mesenteric lymphatic malformations. Case reports, case series, and reviews in English with relevant clinical and surgical data were included, while duplicates, non-English publications, abstracts without full text, and studies lacking essential information were excluded. Case Presentation: We report a 45-year-old male who presented with acute right lower quadrant pain, clinically and radiologically consistent with acute appendicitis. Contrast-enhanced CT incidentally identified a mesenteric cystic lesion near the terminal ileum. Intraoperative findings confirmed phlegmonous appendicitis coexisting with a large MCLM, requiring segmental enterectomy and appendectomy. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of MCLMs. Conclusions: This case highlights the rare coexistence of acute appendicitis and mesenteric lymphatic malformations in an adult, illustrating the surgical challenges of unexpected lymphatic lesions in emergency settings. Emphasizing real-time intraoperative decision-making, we propose an anatomy-driven algorithm that balances complete excision with safer, conservative options based on lesion features, surgical risk, and multidisciplinary input. Full article

Background: Autologous osteochondral transplantation (AOT)—the transfer of hyaline cartilage with its underlying subchondral bone—is well established for focal osteochondral lesions, yet evidence for larger (>200 mm²) defects is limited. We assessed clinical and functional outcomes of AOT in patients with osteochondral knee lesions exceeding 200 mm². Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 52 patients underwent AOT for full-thickness osteochondral defects of the femoral condyles or patellofemoral joint. All lesions were ≥200 mm² and treated with a standardized press-fit technique using one to four overlapping cylindrical grafts. Pain and knee function were evaluated preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Tegner–Lysholm Knee Score (TLKS), and Knee Society Score (KSS). Results: Mean defect size was 224.4 ± 84.5 mm². The VAS improved from 6.32 ± 1.1 preoperatively to 0.72 ± 0.6 at 12 months (p < 0.001). The TLKS rose from 58.6 ± 11.4 to 95.0 ± 6.8 and the KSS from 63.8 ± 12.2 to 97.4 ± 4.9 during the same period (both p < 0.001). Most gains occurred within the first 3–6 months and were sustained at 12 months. No major surgical complications were observed, and outcomes were unaffected by age, sex, or graft number/size. Conclusions: AOT is a safe, effective option for large osteochondral knee defects (>200 mm²), offering rapid, durable pain relief and excellent functional recovery while preserving native joint structures. Accurate donor site reconstruction and precise graft placement in the weight-bearing zone appear critical for optimal results. Longer-term prospective studies are needed to confirm durability and refine patient-selection criteria. Full article

Background: Vascular malformations are relatively common in children. Current therapeutic strategies include observation, medical therapy, sclerotherapy or embolization, laser therapy, cryoablation, and surgery, depending on the type and anatomical location of the malformation. Surgery is commonly limited to small and/or circumscribed lesions, to debulking in case of large volumes, or in drug-resistant cases. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment generally used to treat dysplastic vasculature and to significantly improve patients’ symptoms. Herein, we describe our preliminary experience with bleomycin electrosclerotherapy (BEST) in the treatment of peripheral low-flow venous and lymphatic malformations in the pediatric population. Methods: We prospectively collected and analyzed data from patients who underwent BEST for peripheral low-flow vascular malformations (venous and lymphatic) and were treated at our institution from May 2022 onward. Results: Twelve patients (4 boys and 8 girls) with peripheral low-flow vascular malformations who underwent BEST were enrolled in this preliminary study. The median patient age at the first procedure was 81 months (IQR = 46–128). The most frequent anomaly was peripheral low-flow venous malformation. No relevant postoperative complications were encountered in any of the patients. All patients underwent a clinical evaluation of the malformation 1 month after the procedure. A clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation of the malformation was performed 2 months after the procedure to determine whether to repeat BEST. In cases of clinical resolution, a second ultrasonographic evaluation was performed 6 months after the procedure. Conclusions: BEST appears to be a promising and safe option for treating peripheral low-flow vascular malformations in children. Further studies with a greater number of patients and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm our preliminary experience. Full article

From January 2019 to April 2020, the Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MVDL) received cases of hepatitis and spiking mortality in young turkey poults (average age 15.5 days) from multiple turkey-producing states. Meat-type turkeys were mainly affected, with a few cases in breeders. Of 188 cases, 88 (47.5%) tested positive for reovirus by virus isolation, with most of the positive cases from 7 to 14-day-old birds (n = 42). Gross lesions consisted of hepatosplenomegaly with acute, multifocal necrosis in both liver and spleen. Microscopically, liver sections showed congestion of hepatic sinusoids and necrotizing hepatitis with infiltration of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and macrophages. Reovirus was detected in liver samples by electron microscopy and in situ hybridization (ISH). Sections of spleen showed areas of necrosis with infiltration of the mixed population of inflammatory cells and depletion of lymphocytes. We consistently isolated reoviruses from livers and tentatively named the virus “Turkey Hepatitis Reovirus” (THRV). Phylogenetic analysis of the newly emerged THRVs revealed their clustering into four distinct groups. This study also highlighted the close antigenic relation between TARV and THRV compared to turkey enteritis reoviruses (TERVs), which shed light on the probable origin of this newly emerged pathotype. In summary, further molecular and pathogenicity studies are recommended on THRVs to help diagnose and control this serious variant. Full article

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infections, caused primarily by HSV-1 and HSV-2, are among the most prevalent viral diseases worldwide, with recurrent manifestations that significantly affect quality of life. Therapeutic strategies include both topical and systemic interventions, each with distinct goals. This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2005–2025) identified studies evaluating topical or systemic treatments for HSV. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting validated clinical outcomes. Topical treatments, including acyclovir cream, docosanol, and newer formulations, primarily reduce lesion duration and alleviate local symptoms when applied early. These interventions have limited systemic absorption and generally do not influence recurrence frequency. Novel delivery methods and combination strategies, such as acyclovir–hydrocortisone formulations or photodynamic therapy, may enhance local efficacy and symptom control. Systemic Therapies: Systemic antivirals, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, target both lesion resolution and recurrence prevention. Evidence from randomized trials supports their use for episodic and suppressive therapy, including short-course, high-dose regimens that improve adherence while controlling symptoms. Systemic therapy is particularly indicated for recurrent, disseminated, or high-risk infections. Topical and systemic therapies serve complementary roles in HSV management. Topical agents are useful for localized or initial episodes, while systemic therapy addresses broader clinical objectives, including recurrence reduction. Future research should focus on mechanism-based therapies, novel delivery systems, and standardized outcome measures to guide personalized treatment strategies. Emerging therapies targeting viral latency, immune modulation, and gene-editing technologies hold promise for long-term suppression and personalized management of HSV infections. Full article

Purpose: The human eye is a remarkable organ that develops from many tissues originating from neuroectodermal, ectodermal, and mesodermal sources. If any of these essential ocular tissues are impaired, it can lead to complete vision loss. Thus, the objective of these case studies is to evaluate the impact of growth factor-rich plasma (PRGF) on the healing process of corneal epithelial injuries. Methods: This case series includes three patients with corneal epithelium lesions. The patients were treated with hyaluronic acid and matrix-regenerating agent eye drops for seven days. For a minimum of six more weeks, additional cycles of PRGF eye drops were administered. Results: All three patients demonstrated improvements in visual acuity, reductions in ocular symptoms, and enhanced ocular surface health. In Patient 1, a good postoperative response was obtained after a second surgery. In Patient 2, after 30 days, the corneal leucoma showed a good response and complete recovery. In Patient 3, the ulcer and visual acuity improved 72 h after the treatment began. Conclusions: PRGF eye drops demonstrated efficacy and safety in the treatment of noninfectious corneal ulcers. Additionally, when used in conjunction with other therapies, they have the potential to augment the healing process of corneal ulcers. Full article

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by Streptococcus bovis (S. bovis) is rare but clinically significant due to its established association with colorectal neoplasia. Early recognition and interdisciplinary management are essential to ensure favorable outcomes. We report the case of a 68-year-old woman who presented with a chronic fistula and signs of active infection 20 years after uncemented total hip arthroplasty. Cultures from the wound identified S. bovis, prompting further evaluation. Imaging and laboratory tests supported a diagnosis of chronic PJI. A two-stage revision was performed, beginning with implant removal, debridement, and placement of a vancomycin/gentamicin-loaded spacer. Given the pathogen’s known link to gastrointestinal malignancy, the patient underwent colonoscopy, which revealed a tubulovillous adenoma with carcinoma in situ. Surgical resection was performed with curative intent. Six months later, the patient underwent successful reimplantation. At three-month follow-up, clinical and radiographic assessments showed favorable recovery. This case reinforces the importance of gastrointestinal screening in patients with S. bovis PJI, as early detection of associated colorectal lesions may impact treatment strategies and prognosis. Full article

Mouse papillomavirus (MmuPV1) is the first papillomavirus known to infect laboratory mice, making it an irreplaceable tool for research on papillomaviruses. Despite wide use, standardized techniques for conducting MmuPV1 animal research are lacking. In this report, we describe an unexpected MmuPV1 outbreak causing recurrent papillomatosis in a specific pathogen-free animal research facility. The infected mice displayed characteristic papillomatosis lesions from the muzzles, tails, and feet with histological signs including anisocytosis, epithelial dysplasia, and typical koilocytosis. Etiology studies showed that the papilloma tissues exhibited MmuPV1 infection with expression of viral early and late genes detected by RNA-ISH using MmuPV1 antisense probe to viral E6E7 region and antisense probe to viral L1 region. The viral L1 protein was detected by an anti-MmuPV1 L1 antibody. PCR amplification and cloning of the entire viral genome showed that the origin of the outbreak virus, named MmuPV1 Bethesda strain (GenBank Acc. No. PX123224), could be traced to the MmuPV1 virus previously used in studies at the same facility. Our data indicate that MmuPV1 could exist in a contaminated environment for a long period of time, and a standardized international animal protocol discussing how to handle MmuPV1 studies is urgently needed. Full article

Background. Orthodontic extrusion (OE), or forced eruption, is a conservative technique used to recover teeth affected by coronal fractures, traumatic intrusions, or severe caries. It involves applying light, continuous forces to induce vertical tooth movement, promoting tissue remodeling through periodontal ligament stimulation. Materials and Methods. This narrative review included studies investigating OE as a therapeutic approach for the management of deep or subgingival carious lesions, traumatic dental injuries (such as intrusion or fracture), or for alveolar ridge augmentation in implant site development. OE is typically performed using fixed appliances such as the straight-wire system or, in selected cases, clear aligners. Forces between 30 and 100 g per tooth are applied, depending on the clinical situation. In some protocols, OE is combined with fiberotomy to minimize gingival and bone migration. Results. Studies show that OE leads to significant vertical movement and increases in buccal bone height and interproximal septa. It enhances bone volume in targeted sites, making it valuable in implant site development. Compared to surgical crown lengthening, OE better preserves periodontal tissues and improves esthetics. Conclusions. In this narrative review is analized how OE is effective for managing traumatic intrusions and compromised periodontal sites, particularly when paired with early endodontic treatment. It reduces the risks of ankylosis and root resorption while avoiding invasive procedures like grafting. Although clear aligners may limit axial tooth movement, OE remains a minimally invasive, cost-effective alternative in both restorative and implant dentistry. Full article

Background: Stiff-knee gait commonly involves rectus femoris spasticity in patients with central nervous system lesions. Diagnostic nerve blocks aid in predicting treatment outcomes; however, current techniques may overlook multiple nerve branches that innervate the rectus femoris muscle, potentially resulting in an incomplete assessment of treatment outcomes. Methods: We present an ultrasound-guided approach that we currently use in our practice, using anatomical landmarks, including the femoral artery, the sartorius muscle, and the rectus femoris’ characteristic “J-shaped” internal tendon. The technique employs an “elevator” scanning method to identify all motor nerve branches (typically 2–3) entering the proximal third of the rectus femoris muscle. Each branch is blocked using an in-plane needle approach with 1–2 mL of 2% lidocaine. Results: The technique enables the visualization of hyperechoic nerve branches entering the rectus femoris muscle from medial to lateral, sometimes accompanied by small vascular branches that are identifiable with a Doppler ultrasound. Optimal ultrasound settings include probes >8 MHz, appropriate focus positioning, and dynamic range < 60 dB. The multi-branch approach produces rapid-onset motor weakness (5–10 min). Conclusions: This comprehensive multi-branch rectus femoris nerve block technique may enhance diagnostic accuracy for spasticity assessment, potentially leading to more informed treatment selection for stiff-knee gait. Full article

Monilinia fructigena, a causal agent of brown rot in apple and other fruit crops, poses a significant threat to fruit production and postharvest quality in temperate regions. This study reports on the molecular and morphological identification of M. fructigena isolates obtained from symptomatic apple fruits in the Almaty region of Kazakhstan. Nine isolates were characterized through a combination of morphological assessment, real-time PCR, target locus (ITS and TEF1-α gene) sequencing, and whole genome sequencing using nanopore sequencings. Morphological analysis revealed typical features of M. fructigena, including blastoconidia and microconidia. Pathogenicity tests on ‘Idared’ and ‘Golden Delicious’ apples confirmed the high aggressiveness of the isolates, with lesion development observed within 24–48 h post-inoculation. Molecular identification via real-time PCR and target sequencing confirmed all isolates as M. fructigena with high mapping quality and sequence identity. The whole genome sequencing of a representative isolate further validated the species identity based on comparative alignment with Monilinia reference genomes. Thus, the combination of the used traditional and molecular methods allowed us to unambiguously identify the isolated fungus as M. fructigena. This integrative approach enhances the understanding of Monilinia species in Central Asia and supports the implementation of modern molecular tools for phytopathogen surveillance and agricultural biosecurity. Full article