Maintain Tissue Integrity Research Articles

Uterine prolapse observed during and immediately after parturition in three dogs: case reports and literature review

Uterine prolapse (UPR) in dogs is a rare obstetric emergency. Generally, it occurs within 48 hours postpartum in dogs. Opposite this datum, in this case report three instances of UPR presented as two during parturition and one at 40 days postpartum. Besides, one of them, which occurred during labor, was complicated by uterine rupture. Although no definitive etiology has been determined, it seems that the leading cause is weakness in pelvic connective tissues. Factors contributing to UPR include excessive relaxation of pelvic ligaments, difficult labor, and excessive straining. The extracellular matrix (ECM), composed mainly of collagen and elastin, is crucial in maintaining tissue integrity. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and relaxin significantly affect the ECM’s structure during pregnancy and parturition, influencing pelvic elasticity and uterine strength. Besides, our cases showed that poor body condition, parity, age, and breed predisposition are also suspected as contributing factors. All the animals were treated by surgery, and it seems that rejection of the mass manually does not work for small breeds, but it gives a chance for large breeds. Three cases show mothers and/or puppies may survive with timely and appropriate surgery. Besides, we believe that ovariohysterectomy is the best treatment choice with both survivor and prevention effects. However, to clearly define both the primary factors and co-factors speculated by this report, further research is required to investigate.

Pemphigus vulgaris autoantibodies induce an ER stress response.

Desmosomes are intercellular junctions that mediate cell-cell adhesion and are essential for maintaining tissue integrity. Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune epidermal blistering disease caused by autoantibodies (IgG) targeting desmoglein 3 (Dsg3), a desmosomal cadherin. PV autoantibodies cause desmosome disassembly and loss of cell-cell adhesion, but the molecular signaling pathways that regulate these processes are not fully understood. Using high-resolution time-lapse imaging of live keratinocytes, we found that ER tubules make frequent and persistent contacts with internalizing Dsg3 puncta in keratinocytes treated with PV patient IgG. Biochemical experiments demonstrated that PV IgG activated ER stress signaling pathways, including both IRE1⍺ and PERK pathways, in cultured keratinocytes. Further, ER stress transcripts were upregulated in PV patient skin. Pharmacological inhibition of ER stress protected against PV IgG-induced desmosome disruption and loss of keratinocyte cell-cell adhesion, suggesting that ER stress may be an important pathomechanism and therapeutically targetable pathway for PV treatment. These data support a model in which desmosome adhesion is integrated with ER function to serve as a cell adhesion stress sensor that is activated in blistering skin disease.

Intraoperative margin assessment during radical prostatectomy: is microscopy frozen in time or ready for digital defrost?

Intraoperative frozen section (IFS) is used with the intention to improve functional and oncological outcomes for patients undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP). High resource requirements of IFS techniques such as NeuroSAFE may preclude widespread adoption, even if there are benefits to patients. Recent advances in fresh-tissue microscopic digital imaging technologies may offer an attractive alternative, and there is a growing body of evidence regarding these technologies. In this narrative review, we discuss some of the familiar limitations of IFS and compare these to the attractive counterpoints of modern digital imaging technologies such as the speed and ease of image generation, the locality of equipment within (or near) the operating room, the ability to maintain tissue integrity, and digital transfer of images. Confocal laser microscopy (CLM) is the modality most frequently reported in the literature for margin assessment during RP. We discuss several imitations and obstacles to widespread dissemination of digital imaging technologies. Among these, we consider how the 'en-face' margin perspective will challenge urologists and pathologists to understand afresh the meaning of positive margin significance. As a part of this, discussions on how to describe, categorize, react to, and evaluate these technologies are needed to improve patient outcomes. Limitations of this review include its narrative structure and that the evidence base in this field is relatively immature but developing at pace.

Ultrasensitive detection of aggregated α-synuclein using quiescent seed amplification assay for the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease

BackgroundSeed amplification assays (SAA) enable the amplification of pathological misfolded proteins, including α-synuclein (αSyn), in both tissue homogenates and body fluids of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. SAA involves repeated cycles of shaking or sonication coupled with incubation periods. However, this amplification scheme has limitations in tracking protein propagation due to repeated fragmentation.MethodsWe introduced a modified form of SAA, known as Quiescent SAA (QSAA), and evaluated biopsy and autopsy samples from individuals clinically diagnosed with PD and those without synucleinopathies (control group). Brain biopsy samples were obtained from 14 PD patients and 6 controls without synucleinopathies. Additionally, skin samples were collected from 214 PD patients and 208 control subjects. Data were analyzed from April 2019 to May 2023.ResultsQSAA successfully amplified αSyn aggregates in brain tissue sections from mice inoculated with pre-formed fibrils. In the skin samples from 214 PD cases and 208 non-PD cases, QSAA demonstrated high sensitivity (90.2%) and specificity (91.4%) in differentiating between PD and non-PD cases. Notably, more αSyn aggregates were detected by QSAA compared to immunofluorescence with the pS129-αSyn antibody in consecutive slices of both brain and skin samples.ConclusionWe introduced the new QSAA method tailored for in situ amplification of αSyn aggregates in brain and skin samples while maintaining tissue integrity, providing a streamlined approach to diagnosing PD with individual variability. The integration of seeding activities with the location of deposition of αSyn seeds advances our understanding of the mechanism underlying αSyn misfolding in PD.

Alteration of reactive oxygen species master transcription factor Nrf2 in keratinocytes exposed to monoclonal pathogenic antibody AK23 against desmoglein-3 in pemphigus vulgaris

Keratinocytes in mucosal and skin tissues maintain tissue integrity via desmosomes and desmoglein-3 (Dsg3). Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) is a life-threatening autoimmune blistering disease characterized by autoantibodies against Dsg3, disrupting desmosomes. Nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) regulates oxidative stress responses crucial for skin tissue protection. Although the pathogenesis of PV is known, the detailed molecular events remain unclear. This study investigates changes in Nrf2 expression in keratinocytes following pathogenic anti-Dsg3 antibody AK23 exposure, using dose- and time-dependent studies employing immunofluorescence analysis. N/TERT keratinocytes were cultured in keratinocytes serum-free medium and treated with AK23 at varying doses (5 µg/mL,40µg/mL,75µg/mL) and durations (2, 6, 24 h). Immunofluorescence staining was performed to assess the expression of Nrf2 and Dsg3. All fluorescent images were analyzed using ImageJ software. A dose-dependent increase in Dsg3 was noted following AK23 treatment, while Nrf2 expression and subcellular localization varied. Time-course analyses showed decreased Nrf2 at 24 h and increased Dsg3 levels. Early time-point (2 and 6 h) variations were evident in Nrf2 levels. This study highlights the impact of AK23 on Nrf2 expression, potentially disrupting Nrf2-mediated cytoprotection and implicating oxidative stress (ROS generation) in PV pathogenesis. Further investigation is necessary to validate the findings.

Influence of feeding a soft diet on proteoglycan expression in rat temporomandibular joint discs

ObjectivesExtracellular matrix components play a significant role in maintaining tissue integrity and pathological processes of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This study aimed to evaluate the influence of a soft diet on the mRNA expression of proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) linked to proteoglycan core proteins in rat TMJ discs. MethodsThirty 4-week-old male Wistar rats were assigned to one of two groups: a control group fed a regular pellet diet and a soft diet group fed a powdered diet for 4 weeks. The mRNA expression levels of 12 proteoglycans in TMJ discs were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition, histomorphometric and biochemical analyses were performed to evaluate the thickness and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), GAG, and water content of the TMJ discs. ResultsThe TMJ disc thickness in the anterior, intermediate, and posterior bands decreased significantly in the soft diet group. The GAG content decreased significantly in the soft-diet group, whereas no significant differences in DNA content or water content ratio were observed between the groups. Real-time PCR indicated that the expression levels of aggrecan, versican, biglycan, decorin, fibromodulin, lumican, and chondroadherin decreased in the soft diet group. The expression levels of all versican isoforms decreased in the soft diet group. ConclusionsThese results indicate that the biomechanical environment of the TMJ caused by a soft diet is closely related to the expression of proteoglycans in TMJ discs, which may eventually increase the fragility of the TMJ discs.

Effects of washing with boric acid solutions on residual boric acid content, microbiological load, and quality of fresh-cut spinach

Insufficient disinfection of fresh-cut spinach poses significant health risks, along with potential issues like odor, color changes, and softening during short-term storage. To address these challenges, boric acid solutions were explored as an alternative to chlorine washes, which are known to produce toxic compounds. Among various concentrations, 1 % boric acid exhibited the most effective microbial inactivation, leading to substantial reductions in total mesophilic aerobic bacteria, total yeast and mold, and Enterobacteriaceae counts, with reductions of 1.64, 1.38, and 1.77 logs, respectively. Additionally, washing spinach leaves with this solution for 1 min maintained quality parameters, with enhanced antioxidant activity (55.26 mg kg−1 Trolox equivalent), increased total phenolic content (1214.06 mg kg−1 gallic acid equivalent), retention of chlorophyll a (839.16 mg kg−1), chlorophyll b (539.61 mg kg−1) and ascorbic acid content (264.72 mg kg−1). Mechanical properties such as puncture strength (1.81 N) and puncture distance (52.78 mm) also showed favorable outcomes, alongside optimal moisture content at 89.81 %. Notably, residual boric acid content was lowest in spinach leaves (1252.49 mg kg−1) and highest in the wash water (53.88 mg kg−1) after treatment. Scanning electron microscopy images demonstrated maintained tissue integrity, while Hunter Lab readings indicated minimal color changes post-washing. Additionally, sensory evaluations and various physicochemical analyses further supported the efficacy of boric acid washing. Consequently, washing spinach leaves with a 1 % boric acid solution for 1 min yielded favorable results across multiple quality parameters. These findings suggest the potential of boric acid as a safe and effective alternative disinfectant in the fresh-cut produce industry, highlighting its practical implications for food safety and quality. Future research should focus on exploring long-term effects and optimizing washing protocols for broader applications.

Characteristics of healthy peri-implant tissues.

This article forms part of the themed issue on dental implants, with the general dentist being the main intended reader and with particular relevance to primary care dental professionals. It aims to describe the various characteristics of the implant in health, address contemporary developments in implant dentistry and offer some novel insights on the prevention of peri-implant diseases. A healthy implant exhibits specific histological, clinical and radiographic characteristics. Understanding such aspects leads to proper diagnosis and measures to maintain tissue integrity and prevent the development and progression of peri-implant diseases. Moreover, internationally and widely accepted definitions and recommendations based on expert consensus have been put forward to guide day-to-day clinical practice. This information should provide general practitioners with the means necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for their patients.

Optimization of Formic Acid-Formalin-Based Decalcification Protocol for Rat Calvarial Bone Histology

Decalcification is crucial in histological processing, particularly for studying mineralized tissues like bone. The choice of decalcification method can significantly impact the quality of histological sections and the preservation of tissue morphology. This study aims to establish a standardized protocol for decalcifying rat calvarial bone using a formic acid-formalin-based decalcification solution. The protocol was systematically optimized and evaluated based on various parameters, including decalcification time, formic acid concentration, and tissue integrity preservation. The decalcification process was evaluated through comprehensive assessments, including gross physical examination, chemical analysis, and radiographic imaging techniques. Our result demonstrated that the 10% formic acid concentration proved most effective for decalcifying rat calvarial bone samples within eight days, excelling in mineral content removal while preserving specimen structural integrity. In contrast, the 5% concentration failed to complete decalcification within ten days, and the 15% compromised sample quality within eight days. Histological analyses confirmed the efficacy of the 10% formic acid concentration in maintaining tissue integrity and achieving optimal staining quality. The standardized protocol presented in this study provides an effective and reliable approach for achieving consistent and high-quality histological sections of rat calvarial bone. An ideal decalcification agent should effectively remove calcium salts, preserve structural integrity and molecular components, facilitate rapid yet minimally damaging decalcification, and ensure ease of handling for laboratory personnel. Further exploration of its applicability to different bone types or species is recommended to broaden its research utility.

PTPRO inhibits LPS-induced apoptosis in alveolar epithelial cells

Acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe manifestation, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), represent critical clinical syndromes with multifactorial origins, notably stemming from sepsis within intensive care units (ICUs). Despite their high mortality rates, no selective cure is available beside ventilation support. Apoptosis plays a complex and pivotal role in the pathophysiology of acute lung injury. Excessive apoptosis of alveolar epithelial and microvascular endothelial cells can lead to disruption of lung epithelial barrier integrity, impairing the body's ability to exchange blood and gas. At the same time, apoptosis of damaged or dysfunctional cells, including endothelial and epithelial cells, can help maintain tissue integrity and accelerate recovery from organ pro-inflammatory stress. The balance between pro-survival and pro-apoptotic signals in lung injury determines patient outcomes, making the modulation of apoptosis an area of intense research in the quest for more effective therapies. Here we found that protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type O (PTPRO), a poorly understood receptor-like protein tyrosine phosphatase, is consistently upregulated in multiple tissue types of mice under septic conditions and in the lung alveolar epithelial cells. PTPRO reduction by its selective short-interfering RNA (siRNA) leads to excessive apoptosis in lung alveolar epithelial cells without affecting cell proliferation. Consistently PTPRO overexpression by a DNA construct attenuates apoptotic signaling induced by LPS. These effects of PTPTO on cellular apoptosis are dependent on an ErbB2/PI3K/Akt/NFκB signaling pathway. Here we revealed a novel regulatory pathway of cellular apoptosis by PTPRO in lung alveolar epithelial cells during sepsis.

Therapeutic use of autologous hematopoietic bone marrow transplant combined with concentrated platelet in infected surgical wounds: single-center prospective study

The healing wound is the consecutive process of maintaining tissue integrity including inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling processes. Stem cells can self-renew, and also to differentiate into all cell types, and are involved in physiological regeneration, use of mesenchymal stem cells deriving from the bone marrow with PRP has potentiated the healing process. We conducted a single-arm pilot prospective analytical study was performed on 15 patients whose mean age was 31 years (range: 29–51 years), with refractory abdominal wounds at a private hospital in Iraq from March 30, 2022, to March 2023. Ten days after the stem cell transplant the re-enforcement with PRP subcutaneous injection around wounds. Small papules of granulation tissue appeared over the wound, and tissue granulation increased from 80% (30.26–80.00%) to 100% (81–100%). At the same time, the wound size was reduced by 60% (52.10–78.23%). The follow-up period was 7–24 months, during which no recurrence of the wound was found. In conclusion, the current study is the first to characterize the safety and efficacy of bone marrow-derived stem cells in combination with PRP in the treatment of refractory abdominal wound infection. All patients achieved a 100% healing rate in a short time, and no treatment-related adverse reactions occurred during the treatment.

Disruption of metazoan gene regulatory networks in cancer alters the balance of co-expression between genes of unicellular and multicellular origins

BackgroundMetazoans inherited genes from unicellular ancestors that perform essential biological processes such as cell division, metabolism, and protein translation. Multicellularity requires careful control and coordination of these unicellular genes to maintain tissue integrity and homeostasis. Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) that arose during metazoan evolution are frequently altered in cancer, resulting in over-expression of unicellular genes. We propose that an imbalance in co-expression of unicellular (UC) and multicellular (MC) genes is a driving force in cancer.ResultsWe combine gene co-expression analysis to infer changes to GRNs in cancer with protein sequence conservation data to distinguish genes with UC and MC origins. Co-expression networks created using RNA sequencing data from 31 tumor types and normal tissue samples are divided into modules enriched for UC genes, MC genes, or mixed UC-MC modules. The greatest differences between tumor and normal tissue co-expression networks occur within mixed UC-MC modules. MC and UC genes not commonly co-expressed in normal tissues form distinct co-expression modules seen only in tumors. The degree of rewiring of genes within mixed UC-MC modules increases with tumor grade and stage. Mixed UC-MC modules are enriched for somatic mutations in cancer genes, particularly amplifications, suggesting an important driver of the rewiring observed in tumors is copy number changes.ConclusionsOur study shows the greatest changes to gene co-expression patterns during tumor progression occur between genes of MC and UC origins, implicating the breakdown and rewiring of metazoan gene regulatory networks in cancer development and progression.

Protective Effect of <i>Bifidobacterium longum</i> and <i>Streptococcus thermophilus</i> against Simvastatin-Induced Rhabdomyolysis in Hypercholesteraemic Rats

Simvastatin (SMV), a commonly prescribed drug for lowering lipid levels, is linked to the serious side effect of rhabdomyolysis. This study explores the potential of probiotics, specifically Bifidobacterium longum (BL) and Streptococcus thermophilus (ST), as supplementary treatments to alleviate simvastatin-induced rhabdomyolysis in rats with high cholesterol levels. This study assesses the effects of combining simvastatin with probiotics on parameters such as lipid profiles, renal function, skeletal muscle markers, inflammatory cytokines, and histological characteristics. Rats with elevated cholesterol levels were exposed to SMV treatment alone and in conjunction with probiotics. This study compared the effects of combining simvastatin with BL and ST, focusing on their potential to ameliorate SMV-induced rhabdomyolysis. Combining simvastatin with BL and ST yielded notable outcomes. The supplementation significantly improved lipid profiles by reducing atherogenic lipids and increasing cardioprotective HDL-C levels. Additionally, the probiotics, particularly ST and BL, showed indications of preserving renal function and mitigating the adverse effects of simvastatin on muscle health. Analysis of inflammatory cytokines suggested that probiotics may modulate inflammation. Histological assessments confirmed the protective effects of probiotics by maintaining tissue integrity and normal cell appearance. While BL exhibited a slight advantage over ST, both probiotics demonstrated similar potential as adjunction therapies. This study’s findings highlight the promising role of probiotics, specifically BL and ST, in ameliorating simvastatin-induced rhabdomyolysis. These probiotics show the potential to improve lipid profiles, safeguard renal function, preserve muscle health, modulate inflammation, and maintain tissue integrity. These results provide a hopeful basis for potential therapeutic interventions in individuals experiencing adverse effects associated with SMV treatment.

Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis.

The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.

Comparative proteome analysis revealed potential biomarkers and the underlying immune mechanisms in Vibrio-resistant hybrid grouper, Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂.

Vibrio alginolyticus is the causative agent of vibriosis, a common bacterial infection in grouper aquaculture that is associated with the development of haemorrhagic and non-haemorrhagic ulcerations on the fish. In the present study, comparative proteome analysis was performed on serum samples from Vibrio-resistant and Vibrio-susceptible grouper. Samples were analysed using high-throughput LC-MS/MS and identified 2770 unique peptides that corresponded to 344 proteins. Subsequent analysis identified 21 proteins that were significantly up-regulated in the resistant group compared to the control and the susceptible groups. Those proteins are associated with immunostimulatory effects, signalling and binding cascade, metabolism, and maintaining tissue integrity and physiological condition. Besides, potential protein biomarkers related to the immune system were identified, which could be associated with the disease-resistant phenotype. These data provide insights into the underlying immune mechanism of hybrid groupers upon Vibrio sp. infection.

Salmonella-driven intestinal edema in mice is characterized by tensed fibronectin fibers.

Intestinal edema is a common manifestation of numerous gastrointestinal diseases and is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space of the intestinal wall. Technical advances in laser capture microdissection and low-biomass proteomics now allow us to specifically characterize the intestinal edema proteome. Using advanced proteomics, we identify peptides derived from antimicrobial factors with high signal intensity, but also highlight major contributions from the blood clotting system, extracellular matrix (ECM) and protease-protease inhibitor networks. The ECM is a complex fibrillar network of macromolecules that provides structural and mechanical support to the intestinal tissue. One abundant component of the ECM observed in Salmonella-driven intestinal edema is the glycoprotein fibronectin, recognized for its structure-function interplay regulated by mechanical forces. Using mechanosensitive staining of fibronectin fibers reveals that they are tensed in the edema, despite the high abundance of proteases able to cleave fibronectin. In contrast, fibronectin fibers increasingly relax in other cecal tissue areas as the infection progresses. Co-staining for fibrin(ogen) indicates the formation of a provisional matrix in the edema, similar to what is observed in response to skin injury, while collagen staining reveals a sparse and disrupted collagen fiber network. These observations plus the absence of low tensional fibronectin fibers and the additional finding of a high number of protease inhibitors in the edema proteome could indicate a critical role of stretched fibronectin fibers in maintaining tissue integrity in the severely inflamed cecum. Understanding these processes may also provide valuable functional diagnostic markers of intestinal disease progression in the future.

Mechanosensing regulates tissue repair program in macrophages.

Tissue-resident macrophages play important roles in tissue homeostasis and repair. However, how macrophages monitor and maintain tissue integrity is not well understood. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a key structural and organizational component of all tissues. Here, we find that macrophages sense the mechanical properties of the ECM to regulate a specific tissue repair program. We show that macrophage mechanosensing is mediated by cytoskeletal remodeling and can be performed in three-dimensional environments through a noncanonical, integrin-independent mechanism analogous to amoeboid migration. We find that these cytoskeletal dynamics also integrate biochemical signaling by colony-stimulating factor 1 and ultimately regulate chromatin accessibility to control the mechanosensitive gene expression program. This study identifies an "amoeboid" mode of ECM mechanosensing through which macrophages may regulate tissue repair and fibrosis.

Senescence-associated ß-galactosidase staining over the lifespan differs in a short- and a long-lived fish species.

During the aging process, cells can enter cellular senescence, a state in which cells leave the cell cycle but remain viable. This mechanism is thought to protect tissues from propagation of damaged cells and the number of senescent cells has been shown to increase with age. The speed of aging determines the lifespan of a species and it varies significantly in different species. To assess the progress of cellular senescence during lifetime, we performed a comparative longitudinal study using histochemical detection of the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase as senescence marker to map the staining patterns in organs of the long-lived zebrafish and the short-lived turquoise killifish using light- and electron microscopy. We compared age stages corresponding to human stages of newborn, childhood, adolescence, adult and old age. We found tissue-specific but conserved signal patterns with respect to organ distribution. However, we found dramatic differences in the onset of tissue staining. The stained zebrafish organs show little to no signal at newborn age followed by a gradual increase in signal intensity, whereas the organs of the short-lived killifish show an early onset of staining already at newborn stage, which remains conspicuous at all age stages. The most prominent signal was found in liver, intestine, kidney and heart, with the latter showing the most prominent interspecies divergence in onset of staining and in staining intensity. In addition, we found staining predominantly in epithelial cells, some of which are post-mitotic, such as the intestinal epithelial lining. We hypothesize that the association of the strong and early-onset signal pattern in the short-lived killifish is consistent with a protective mechanism in a fast growing species. Furthermore, we believe that staining in post-mitotic cells may play a role in maintaining tissue integrity, suggesting different roles for cellular senescence during life.

P80 natural essence spray and lozenges provide respiratory protection against Influenza A, B, and SARS-CoV-2

Seasonally circulating viruses, such as Influenza, as well as newly emerging viruses and variants thereof, and waning immunity urge the need for safe, easy-to-use and inexpensive drugs to protect from these challenges. To prevent transmission of these viruses and subsequent excessive inflammatory reactions on mucous membranes, we tested the efficacy of the natural essence P80 as spray and in form of lozenges against respiratory infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VoCs), influenza A (H3N2) and influenza B (Victoria). P80 natural essence, a Dimocarpus longan extract, shielded highly differentiated human airway epithelia from SARS-CoV-2 wildtype and Omicron variant as well as Influenza A and B infection and dampened inflammation by down-modulating pro-inflammatory cytokine and anaphylatoxin secretion. A single application of P80 natural essence spray maintained tissue integrity long-term. This also significantly reduced the release of infectious viral particles and the secretion of IP10, MCP1, RANTES and C3a, all of which mediate the migration of immune cells to the sites of infection. Even P80 lozenges dissolved in distilled water or non-neutralizing saliva efficiently prevented SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza-induced tissue destruction. Consequently, our in vitro data suggest that P80 natural essence can act as antiviral prophylactic, both in form of nasal or oral spray and in form of lozenges, independent of circulating respiratory challenges.

Cryogenic vs. Mechanical freezing impact on the quality of the sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) during long-term storage

In this study, we compared the long-term impact of cryogenic and mechanical freezing on sea bass quality. Mechanical freezing (MF) and cryogenic freezing (CF) were conducted at -40 °C and -80 °C, respectively, with air velocities of 2 m s-1 and 0.5 m s-1. Frozen samples were stored at -20 °C for 60 days. We assessed quality attributes, including exudate loss, texture, TBA value, color, enthalpy, microstructure, and protein denaturation, over this period. Exudate loss increased significantly during storage, with no significant difference between freezing methods. The cutting force, L*, b*, chroma (C*), and total color difference (ΔE) were mainly influenced by storage time rather than freezing methods, as p values were >0.05. MF samples were notably less green (p < 0.05) than CF samples, as indicated by higher a* value. Lipid oxidation occurred post-freezing and during storage, with the TBA value at the 0th month being 11 % lower for cryogenic freezing compared to mechanical freezing, reducing to just 2 % after the 2nd month. CF exhibited slightly higher enthalpy than MF, although not significant. Furthermore, the deconvolution data suggested that protein denaturation was impacted not only by freezing storage but also by the freezing treatment and freezing methods to some extent. Microstructure analysis showed that CF produced smaller ice crystals and maintained tissue integrity (inter-fibre distance) better than MF (p value = 0.000), a benefit that persisted during storage (p value = 0.009). Overall, fish quality attributes were more affected by the freezing treatment and storage conditions than by the freezing methods.