Effects of mesenchymal stem cell on dopaminergic neurons,motor and memory functions in animal models of Parkinson's disease:a systematic review and meta-analysis

Parkinson’s disease is chara cterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars com pacta,and although restoring striatal dopamine levels may improve symptoms,no treatment can cure or reve rse the disease itself.Stem cell therapy has a regenerative effect and is being actively studied as a candidate for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.Mesenchymal stem cells are considered a promising option due to fewer ethical concerns,a lower risk of immune rejection,and a lower risk of teratogenicity.We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cells and their derivatives on motor function,memory,and preservation of dopamine rgic neurons in a Parkinson’s disease animal model.We searched bibliographic databases(PubMed/MEDLINE,Embase,CENTRAL,Scopus,and Web of Science)to identify articles and included only pee r-reviewed in vivo interve ntional animal studies published in any language through J une 28,2023.The study utilized the random-effect model to estimate the 95%confidence intervals(CI)of the standard mean differences(SMD)between the treatment and control groups.We use the systematic review center for laboratory animal expe rimentation’s risk of bias tool and the collaborative approach to meta-analysis and review of animal studies checklist for study quality assessment.A total of 33studies with data from 840 Parkinson’s disease model animals were included in the meta-analysis.Treatment with mesenchymal stem cells significantly improved motor function as assessed by the amphetamine-induced rotational test.Among the stem cell types,the bone marrow MSCs with neurotrophic factor group showed la rgest effect size(SMD[95%CI]=-6.21[-9.50 to-2.93],P=0.0001,I^(2)=0.0%).The stem cell treatment group had significantly more tyrosine hydroxylase positive dopamine rgic neurons in the striatum([95%CI]=1.04[0.59 to 1.49],P=0.0001,I^(2)=65.1%)and substantia nigra(SMD[95%CI]=1.38[0.89 to 1.87],P=0.0001,I^(2)=75.3%),indicating a protective effect on dopaminergic neurons.Subgroup analysis of the amphetamine-induced rotation test showed a significant reduction only in the intracranial-striatum route(SMD[95%CI]=-2.59[-3.25 to-1.94],P=0.0001,I^(2)=74.4%).The memory test showed significant improvement only in the intravenous route(SMD[95%CI]=4.80[1.84 to 7.76],P=0.027,I^(2)=79.6%).Mesenchymal stem cells have been shown to positively impact motor function and memory function and protect dopaminergic neurons in preclinical models of Parkinson’s disease.Further research is required to determine the optimal stem cell types,modifications,transplanted cell numbe rs,and delivery methods for these protocols.

Neurophysiological, histological, and behavioral characterization of animal models of distraction spinal cord injury: a systematic review

Distraction spinal cord injury is caused by some degree of distraction or longitudinal tension on the spinal cord and commonly occurs in patients who undergo corrective operation for severe spinal deformity.With the increased degree and duration of distraction,spinal cord injuries become more serious in terms of their neurophysiology,histology,and behavior.Very few studies have been published on the specific characteristics of distraction spinal cord injury.In this study,we systematically review 22 related studies involving animal models of distraction spinal cord injury,focusing particularly on the neurophysiological,histological,and behavioral characteristics of this disease.In addition,we summarize the mechanisms underlying primary and secondary injuries caused by distraction spinal cord injury and clarify the effects of different degrees and durations of distraction on the primary injuries associated with spinal cord injury.We provide new concepts for the establishment of a model of distraction spinal cord injury and related basic research,and provide reference guidelines for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Large animal models for Huntington's disease research

Huntington'sdisease(HD)isahereditary neurodegenerative disorder for which there is currently no effectivetreatmentavailable.Consequently,the development of appropriate disease models is critical to thoroughly investigate disease progression.The genetic basis of HD involves the abnormal expansion of CAG repeats in the huntingtin(HTT)gene,leading to the expansion of a polyglutamine repeat in the HTT protein.Mutant HTT carrying the expanded polyglutamine repeat undergoes misfolding and forms aggregates in the brain,which precipitate selective neuronal loss in specific brain regions.Animal models play an important role in elucidating the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders such as HD and in identifying potential therapeutic targets.Due to the marked species differences between rodents and larger animals,substantial efforts have been directed toward establishing large animal models for HD research.These models are pivotal for advancing the discovery of novel therapeutic targets,enhancing effective drug delivery methods,and improving treatment outcomes.We have explored the advantages of utilizing large animal models,particularly pigs,in previous reviews.Since then,however,significant progress has been made in developing more sophisticated animal models that faithfully replicate the typical pathology of HD.In the current review,we provide a comprehensive overview of large animal models of HD,incorporating recent findings regarding the establishment of HD knock-in(KI)pigs and their genetic therapy.We also explore the utilization of large animal models in HD research,with a focus on sheep,non-human primates(NHPs),and pigs.Our objective is to provide valuable insights into the application of these large animal models for the investigation and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.

Genetically modified pigs:Emerging animal models for hereditary hearing loss

Hereditary hearing loss(HHL),a genetic disorder that impairs auditory function,significantly affects quality of life and incurs substantial economic losses for society.To investigate the underlying causes of HHL and evaluate therapeutic outcomes,appropriate animal models are necessary.Pigs have been extensively used as valuable large animal models in biomedical research.In this review,we highlight the advantages of pig models in terms of ear anatomy,inner ear morphology,and electrophysiological characteristics,as well as recent advancements in the development of distinct genetically modified porcine models of hearing loss.Additionally,we discuss the prospects,challenges,and recommendations regarding the use pig models in HHL research.Overall,this review provides insights and perspectives for future studies on HHL using porcine models.

Genome-edited rabbits:Unleashing the potential of a promising experimental animal model across diverse diseases

Animal models are extensively used in all aspects of biomedical research,with substantial contributions to our understanding of diseases,the development of pharmaceuticals,and the exploration of gene functions.The field of genome modification in rabbits has progressed slowly.However,recent advancements,particularly in CRISPR/Cas9-related technologies,have catalyzed the successful development of various genome-edited rabbit models to mimic diverse diseases,including cardiovascular disorders,immunodeficiencies,agingrelated ailments,neurological diseases,and ophthalmic pathologies.These models hold great promise in advancing biomedical research due to their closer physiological and biochemical resemblance to humans compared to mice.This review aims to summarize the novel gene-editing approaches currently available for rabbits and present the applications and prospects of such models in biomedicine,underscoring their impact and future potential in translational medicine.

Biodiversity metrics on ecological networks: Demonstrated with animal gastrointestinal microbiomes

Biodiversity has become a terminology familiar to virtually every citizen in modern societies.It is said that ecology studies the economy of nature,and economy studies the ecology of humans;then measuring biodiversity should be similar with measuring national wealth.Indeed,there have been many parallels between ecology and economics,actually beyond analogies.For example,arguably the second most widely used biodiversity metric,Simpson(1949)’s diversity index,is a function of familiar Gini-index in economics.One of the biggest challenges has been the high“diversity”of diversity indexes due to their excessive“speciation”-there are so many indexes,similar to each country’s sovereign currency-leaving confused diversity practitioners in dilemma.In 1973,Hill introduced the concept of“numbers equivalent”,which is based on Renyi entropy and originated in economics,but possibly due to his abstruse interpretation of the concept,his message was not widely received by ecologists until nearly four decades later.What Hill suggested was similar to link the US dollar to gold at the rate of$35 per ounce under the Bretton Woods system.The Hill numbers now are considered most appropriate biodiversity metrics system,unifying Shannon,Simpson and other diversity indexes.Here,we approach to another paradigmatic shift-measuring biodiversity on ecological networks-demonstrated with animal gastrointestinal microbiomes representing four major invertebrate classes and all six vertebrate classes.The network diversity can reveal the diversity of species interactions,which is a necessary step for understanding the spatial and temporal structures and dynamics of biodiversity across environmental gradients.

Finding biomarkers of experience in animals

At a time when there is a growing public interest in animal welfare,it is critical to have objective means to assess the way that an animal experiences a situation.Objectivity is critical to ensure appropriate animal welfare outcomes.Existing behavioural,physiological,and neurobiological indicators that are used to assess animal welfare can verify the absence of extremely negative outcomes.But welfare is more than an absence of negative outcomes and an appropriate indicator should reflect the full spectrum of experience of an animal,from negative to positive.In this review,we draw from the knowledge of human biomedical science to propose a list of candidate biological markers(biomarkers)that should reflect the experiential state of non-human animals.The proposed biomarkers can be classified on their main function as endocrine,oxidative stress,non-coding molecular,and thermobiological markers.We also discuss practical challenges that must be addressed before any of these biomarkers can become useful to assess the experience of an animal in real-life.

Staphylococcus aureus and biofilms:transmission, threats, and promising strategies in animal husbandry

Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) is a common pathogenic bacterium in animal husbandry that can cause diseases such as mastitis, skin infections, arthritis, and other ailments. The formation of biofilms threatens and exacerbates S. aureus infection by allowing the bacteria to adhere to pathological areas and livestock product surfaces, thus triggering animal health crises and safety issues with livestock products. To solve this problem, in this review, we provide a brief overview of the harm caused by S. aureus and its biofilms on livestock and animal byproducts(meat and dairy products). We also describe the ways in which S. aureus spreads in animals and the threats it poses to the livestock industry. The processes and molecular mechanisms involved in biofilm formation are then explained. Finally, we discuss strategies for the removal and eradication of S. aureus and biofilms in animal husbandry, including the use of antimicrobial peptides, plant extracts, nanoparticles, phages, and antibodies. These strategies to reduce the spread of S. aureus in animal husbandry help maintain livestock health and improve productivity to ensure the ecologically sustainable development of animal husbandry and the safety of livestock products.

Animal models of hepatitis E infection: Advances and challenges

Hepatitis E virus(HEV)is one of the leading causes of acute viral hepatitis worldwide.Although most of HEV infections are asymptomatic,some patients will develop the symptoms,especially pregnant women,the elderly,and patients with preexisting liver diseases,who often experience anorexia,nausea,vom-iting,malaise,abdominal pain,and jaundice.HEV infection may become chronic in immunosuppressed individuals.In addition,HEV infection can also cause several extrahepatic manifestations.HEV exists in a wide range of hosts in nature and can be transmitted across species.Hence,animals susceptible to HEV can be used as models.The establishment of animal models is of great significance for studying HEV transmission,clinical symptoms,extrahepatic manifestations,and therapeutic strategies,which will help us understand the pathogenesis,prevention,and treatment of hepatitis E.This review summarized the animal models of HEV,including pigs,monkeys,rabbits,mice,rats,and other animals.For each animal species,we provided a concise summary of the HEV genotypes that they can be infected with,the cross-species transmission pathways,as well as their role in studying extrahepatic manifestations,prevention,and treatment of HEV infection.The advantages and disadvantages of these animal models were also emphasized.This review offers new perspectives to enhance the current understanding of the research landscape surrounding HEV animal models.

Animal models of eosinophilic esophagitis,review and perspectives

Eosinophilic oesophagitis(EoE)is an allergen/immune-mediated chronic esophageal disease characterized by esophageal mucosal eosinophilic infiltration and esophageal dysfunction.Although the disease was originally attributed to a delayed allergic reaction to allergens and a Th2-type immune response,the exact pathogenesis is complex,and the efficacy of existing treatments is unsatisfactory.Therefore,the study of the pathophysiological process of EOE has received increasing attention.Animal models have been used extensively to study the molecular mechanism of EOE pathogenesis and also provide a preclinical platform for human clinical intervention studies of novel therapeutic agents.To maximize the use of existing animal models of EOE,it is important to understand the advantages or limitations of each modeling approach.This paper systematically describes the selection of experimental animals,types of allergens,and methods of sensitization and excitation during the preparation of animal models of EoE.It also discusses the utility and shortcomings of each model with the aim of providing the latest perspectives on EoE models and leading to better choices of animal models.

产教融合下高职动漫设计专业MG动画与Animate软件的课程设计与研究

在产教融合大背景下,高职动漫设计专业中对于信息技术与教育的深度融合追求愈发强烈。在产教融合战略影响下,专业中MG动画教学也与Animate软件课程设计教学融合起来,共同完善课程设计方案。所以本文中就探讨了产教融合背景下高职动漫设计专业中MG动画技术与Animate软件课程的信息化技术设计应用,研究其中的教学设计要点。

Call for Papers from Food Science of Animal Products

Food Science of Animal Products (ISSN:2958-4124,e-ISSN:2958-3780)is a peer-reviewed,open access international journal that publishes the latest research findings in the field of animal-origin foods,involving food materials such as meat,aquatic products,milk,eggs,animal offals and edible insects.

Call for Papers from Food Science of Animal Products

Food Science of Animal Products(ISSN:2958-4124,e-ISSN:2958-3780)is a peer-reviewed,open access international journal that publishes the latest research findings in the field of animal-origin foods,involving food materials such as meat,aquatic products,milk,eggs,animal offals and edible insects.The research scope includes the quality and processing characteristics of food raw materials.

Implantable Electrochemical Microsensors for In Vivo Monitoring of Animal Physiological Information

In vivo monitoring of animal physiological information plays a crucial role in promptly alerting humans to potential diseases in animals and aiding in the exploration of mechanisms underlying human diseases.Currently,implantable electrochemical microsensors have emerged as a prominent area of research.These microsensors not only fulfill the technical requirements for monitoring animal physiological information but also offer an ideal platform for integration.They have been extensively studied for their ability to monitor animal physiological information in a minimally invasive manner,characterized by their bloodless,painless features,and exceptional performance.The development of implantable electrochemical microsensors for in vivo monitoring of animal physiological information has witnessed significant scientific and technological advancements through dedicated efforts.This review commenced with a comprehensive discussion of the construction of microsensors,including the materials utilized and the methods employed for fabrication.Following this,we proceeded to explore the various implantation technologies employed for electrochemical microsensors.In addition,a comprehensive overview was provided of the various applications of implantable electrochemical microsensors,specifically in the monitoring of diseases and the investigation of disease mechanisms.Lastly,a concise conclusion was conducted on the recent advancements and significant obstacles pertaining to the practical implementation of implantable electrochemical microsensors.

Knee osteoarthritis:A review of animal models and intervention of traditional Chinese medicine

Background:Knee osteoarthritis(KOA)characterized by degeneration of knee cartilage and subsequent bone hyperplasia is a prevalent joint condition primarily affecting aging adults.The pathophysiology of KOA remains poorly understood,as it involves complex mechanisms that result in the same outcome.Consequently,researchers are interested in studying KOA and require appropriate animal models for basic research.Chinese herbal compounds,which consist of multiple herbs with diverse pharmacological properties,possess characteristics such as multicomponent,multipathway,and multitarget effects.The potential benefits in the treatment of KOA continue to attract attention.Purpose:This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the advantages,limitations,and specific considerations in selecting different species and methods for KOA animal models.This will help researchers make informed decisions when choosing an animal model.Methods:Online academic databases(e.g.,PubMed,Google Scholar,Web of Science,and CNKI)were searched using the search terms“knee osteoarthritis,”“animal models,”“traditional Chinese medicine,”and their combinations,primarily including KOA studies published from 2010 to 2023.Results:Based on literature retrieval,this review provides a comprehensive overview of the methods of establishing KOA animal models;introduces the current status of advantages and disadvantages of various animal models,including mice,rats,rabbits,dogs,and sheep/goats;and presents the current status of methods used to establish KOA animal models.Conclusion:This study provides a review of the animal models used in recent KOA research,discusses the common modeling methods,and emphasizes the role of traditional Chinese medicine compounds in the treatment of KOA.

Preliminary exploration of animal models of congenital choledochal cysts

BACKGROUND Various animal models have been used to explore the pathogenesis of choledochal cysts(CCs),but with little convincing results.Current surgical techniques can achieve satisfactory outcomes for treatment of CCs.Consequently,recent studies have focused more on clinical issues rather than basic research.Therefore,we need appropriate animal models to further basic research.AIM To establish an appropriate animal model that may contribute to the investigation of the pathogenesis of CCs.METHODS Eighty-four specific pathogen-free female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated to a surgical group,sham surgical group,or control group.A rat model of CC was established by partial ligation of the bile duct.The reliability of the model was confirmed by measurements of serum biochemical indices,morpho-logy of common bile ducts of the rats as well as molecular biology experiments in rat and human tissues.RESULTS Dilation classified as mild(diameter,≥1 mm to<3 mm),moderate(≥3 mm to<10 mm),and severe(≥10 mm)was observed in 17,17,and 2 rats in the surgical group,respectively,while no dilation was observed in the control and sham surgical groups.Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotrans-ferase,total bilirubin,direct bilirubin,and total bile acids were significantly elevated in the surgical group as compared to the control group 7 d after surgery,while direct bilirubin,total bilirubin,and gamma-glutamyltransferase were further increased 14 d after surgery.Most of the biochemical indices gradually decreased to normal ranges 28 d after surgery.The protein expression trend of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in rat model was consistent with the human CC tissues.CONCLUSION The model of partial ligation of the bile duct of juvenile rats could morphologically simulate the cystic or fusiform CC,which may contribute to investigating the pathogenesis of CC.

A 10-year review and epidemiology of animal bite cases in Gerash city, south of Iran: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Objective:To determine the temporal trend and epidemiology of animal bite cases in Gerash City,Iran.Methods:This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed 630 cases of people with animal bites between 2011 and 2021 in Gerash City.The collected data were analyzed using Chi-square test.Results:The mean age of victims was(30.9±17.5)years.80.54%Of victims were male,39.70%were self-employed,and 64.60%were adults(≥18 years).Most cases of bites occurred in 2019(91 cases),2020(74 cases)and 2021(87 cases),and most of the bites were related to the upper limbs(62.70%).Most of the wounds were superficial(78%),most of the biting animals were domestic animals(91.74%),and most of the victims had Iranian nationality(97.62%).Conclusions:Given the increasing trend of animal bites in Gerash City,health authorities should carry out basic measures such as education and awareness among the public,especially at-risk groups such as adult males.Additionally,since most cases of bites are due to dogs,it seems necessary to plan for vaccination of dogs,especially those with owners.

Face animation based on multiple sources and perspective alignment

Background Face image animation generates a synthetic human face video that harmoniously integrates the identity derived from the source image and facial motion obtained from the driving video.This technology could be beneficial in multiple medical fields,such as diagnosis and privacy protection.Previous studies on face animation often relied on a single source image to generate an output video.With a significant pose difference between the source image and the driving frame,the quality of the generated video is likely to be suboptimal because the source image may not provide sufficient features for the warped feature map.Methods In this study,we propose a novel face-animation scheme based on multiple sources and perspective alignment to address these issues.We first introduce a multiple-source sampling and selection module to screen the optimal source image set from the provided driving video.We then propose an inter-frame interpolation and alignment module to further eliminate the misalignment between the selected source image and the driving frame.Conclusions The proposed method exhibits superior performance in terms of objective metrics and visual quality in large-angle animation scenes compared to other state-of-the-art face animation methods.It indicates the effectiveness of the proposed method in addressing the distortion issues in large-angle animation.

Spatial analysis of animal bites in Iran(2015-2020):A cross-sectional study

Objective:To investigate the distribution pattern of animal bites in Mirjaveh,Iran from 2015 to 2020.Methods:The data on animal bites were collected from the Department of Infectious Diseases,the provincial health center.Monthly climatic data on precipitation and temperature during the study period were also collected.The correlation between incidence and temperature,precipitation rate,land type,and altitude was also analyzed.Results:The results showed that men were more affected by animal bites than women(76.4%,P<0.001),and the highest incidence rate occurred in the age group of 5-19 years.The incidence rate of animal bites was found to be correlated with temperature and altitude.An increase in temperature was associated with a rise in the incidence rate of animal bites.The number of animal bites increased until 2019,possibly due to an increase in the number of dogs in the area.Conclusions:Targeted interventions should be implemented to reduce the incidence of animal bites,particularly among children,housewives,and students.Improving access to appropriate treatments,increasing public awareness of the hazards of animal bites,and increasing the number of vaccinated dogs in the area are essential strategies to be considered.

The Innovative Expression of Traditional Chinese Cultural Archetypes in Animated Films: Establishing a Reliable, Admirable, and Respectable Image of China

China’s domestic animation industry is deeply rooted in its rich traditional cultural heritage.While continuously exploring and showcasing the unique charm of such cultural heritage through storytelling,imagery establishment,and spirit creation,Chinese animation also seamlessly integrates modern aesthetic characteristics and cultural values into its development within the context of the new era.By adopting a contemporary perspective,it innovatively expresses the essence of traditional culture while striving to shape and present a reliable,admirable and respectable image of China.Chinese animation aims to create credible contemporary animation images by drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese cultural archetypes.It also seeks to revitalize admirable traditional cultural imagery using vibrant and prevailing ACGN visuals,while shaping credible characters with richer cultural connotations and crafting stories with more enchanting plots to convey the spiritual essence of the Chinese nation.By establishing reliable,admirable and respectable animation images,the Chinese animation industry strives to enhance its capability to“tell China’s stories well and make the voice of China heard,”to better promote the image of China in the new era from a global perspective.