Band Of Connective Tissue Research Articles

Anatomy and histology of apical support: a literature review concerning cardinal and uterosacral ligaments

The objective of this work was to collect and summarize relevant literature on the anatomy, histology, and imaging of apical support of the upper vagina and the uterus provided by the cardinal (CL) and uterosacral (USL) ligaments. A literature search in English, French, and German languages was carried out with the keywords apical support, cardinal ligament, transverse cervical ligament, Mackenrodt ligament, parametrium, paracervix, retinaculum uteri, web, uterosacral ligament, and sacrouterine ligament in the PubMed database. Other relevant journal and textbook articles were sought by retrieving references cited in previous PubMed articles. Fifty references were examined in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. The USL extends from the S2 to the S4 vertebra region to the dorsal margin of the uterine cervix and/or to the upper third of the posterior vaginal wall. It has a superficial and deep component. Autonomous nerve fibers are a major constituent of the deep USL. CL is defined as a perivascular sheath with a proximal insertion around the origin of the internal iliac artery and a distal insertion on the cervix and/or vagina. It is divided into a cranial (vascular) and a caudal (neural) portions. Histologically, it contains mainly vessels, with no distinct band of connective tissue. Both the deep USL and the caudal CL are closely related to the inferior hypogastric plexus. USL and CL are visceral ligaments, with mesentery-like structures containing vessels, nerves, connective tissue, and adipose tissue.

Morphological observations of ampullae of lorenzini in Squatina guggenheim and S. occulta (chondrichthyes, elasmobranchii, squatinidae)

We have conducted a morphological study of the ampullae of Lorenzini on two shark species from Squatina Genus. In both species, S. guggenheim and S. occulta, the ampullae were observed like small pores scattered in the head region similar to other species of the Chondrichthyes Class. However, differently of the other species a greatest density of ampullae of Lorenzini was observed along of the body surface. After fixation using 10% formaldehyde, the ampullae were removed and processed for light and scanning electron microscopy. Macroscopically, the two shark species differed by the presence of dorsal spines that appeared from the head to the first dorsal fin in S. guggenheim and were absent in S. occulta. Microscopically, there were no differences between the ampullae of Lorenzini channels in these two species. The wall of the ampulla was formed by a simple squamous epithelium. Bands of connective tissue, hyaline cartilage and collagen fibers were found between the ampulla and the skeletal striated muscle layer. Nerve branches responsible for conducting signal pulses to the central nervous system were visible between the muscle and connective tissue layers. Using scanning electron microscopy and histological analysis, we found that the channels were twisted and positioned parallel to the skin. The inside of the channels contained a large amount of a gelatinous secretion composed by polysaccharides. Therefore, we conclude that the morphological combination of extended distribution of the ampullae of Lorenzini and the body shape may represent an adaptation of these species to their way of life.

Atypical meningeal granular cell tumor in a dog

A 10-year-old, female spayed Chihuahua dog was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the University of Georgia for evaluation of seizures, abnormal mentation, and cervical pain of 2 months duration. On magnetic resonance imaging, there was generalized thickening of the meninges overlying the left cerebral hemisphere and along the falx cerebri. Despite symptomatic treatment, the dog remained neurologically affected. Consequently, the owners elected euthanasia. On gross examination, the meninges covering the left cerebral hemisphere were severely thickened and firmly adhered to the calvaria. On transverse section, the white matter of the left cerebral hemisphere was swollen, enlarged, and extended across the midline with resultant compression of the right cerebral hemisphere. Cytologic evaluation of an impression smear of the thickened meninges showed numerous large, spindloid to polygonal cells with abundant, amphophilic, vacuolated cytoplasm, present either in clusters or in individual cells. Histopathologic evaluation of the meninges revealed a poorly circumscribed and infiltrative, moderately cellular neoplasm, composed of vacuolated, spindloid to polygonal cells with marked anisocytosis and anisokaryosis, arranged in sheets, and occasionally separated by thick bands of connective tissue. Immunohistochemistry for vimentin revealed diffuse cytoplasmic staining of the neoplastic cells. Although the periodic acid-Schiff reaction was negative, ultrastructural findings showed numerous vesicles that were empty or that contained membranous or electron-dense material. Based on gross, microscopic, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural changes, the meningeal neoplasm was diagnosed as an atypical granular cell tumor.

The morphology of the pecten oculi in the common buzzard (Buteo buteo)

The pecten oculi are an intraocular, vascular, and pigmented structure peculiar to the avian eye. In this study, we investigated the pecten oculi of the common buzzard (Buteo buteo) using stereomicroscopy and light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Twenty eyes from 10 adult buzzards were studied. Specimens from each buzzard were preserved in 10% buffered formalin and observed stereomicroscopically before being embedded in paraffin, sectioned, and stained with three stains: Mallory's triple staining technique as modified by Crossman, Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE), and Safranin O, and for examination by light microscopy. Specimens from two buzzards were also prepared for SEM. Stereomicroscopy and SEM examination showed the pecten oculi in the common buzzard to be pleated-consisting of 17-18 100 μm thick folds. These folds are connected to one another by bands of connective tissue extending vertically between the plications. Blood vessels, approximately 30-40 μm in diameter, were seen on the surface of the each fold. These vessels arise from the base of pecten, becoming thinner toward the apical end of the structure. A network of capillary vessels at the base of the plicated structure resembles contour lines. At high amplification, melanin granule accumulations were observed around the vascular structures of the plica on SEM images. Light microscopy supported the SEM observations. These findings reveal that the pecten oculi in the common buzzard are plicated and are remarkably similar to that of the other diurnal raptors.

Fetal Check Ligament Connected between the Conjunctiva and the Medial and Lateral Recti

There seems to be little or no information about the morphology of the fetal eye check ligament. The authors examined longitudinal and cross-histologic sections from the large collection of human fetuses at Universidad Complutense, Madrid. In longitudinal sections from 20 fetuses (four at each of 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 weeks of gestation), a distinct connective tissue band was found connecting the medial and lateral recti and the limbus of the conjunctiva (sites at and around the lateral and medial angles of the conjunctival space). Silver impregnation revealed that the muscle endomysium (type 4 collagen dominant) was connected with composite fibers of the band (type 1 collagen). The cross-sections from three fetuses (20 weeks) exhibited a site-dependent difference in the rectus sheaths: the orbital-sided sheath suddenly increased in thickness when it tightly attached to the muscle bundles. The attaching orbital-sided muscle bundles reached 14% to 15% (or 18%-20%) in the cross-sectional area of the MR (or the LR). Taken together, the distinct connective tissue band extending to the conjunctiva was "originated from" the MR and LR rather than from a part of the muscles inserting into the connective tissue band. This band was most likely a primitive form of the check ligament. The authors hypothesize that the primitive check ligament conducts muscle tension to the conjunctiva to coordinate growth patterns between the anterior and posterior sides of the eyeball. This hypothesis may support en bloc recession for infantile esotropia.

Extracellular Matrix as an Inductive Template for Temporomandibular Joint Meniscus Reconstruction: A Pilot Study

A device consisting of powdered porcine urinary bladder extracellular matrix (UBM-ECM) encapsulated within sheets of the same material was investigated as a scaffold for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) meniscus reconstruction. Five dogs underwent unilateral resection of the native meniscus and replacement with a UBM-ECM device. Necropsies were performed at 3, 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks. Two additional dogs underwent bilateral resection of the meniscus with replacement with a UBM-ECM device on 1 side, leaving the contralateral side empty as a control. Necropsies were performed at 24 weeks for bilaterally treated animals. Macroscopically, the UBM-ECM implants were remodeled rapidly and were indistinguishable from newly deposited host tissue at all time points. Microscopically, remodeling was characterized by a dense infiltration of predominantly CD68(+) mononuclear cells and smooth muscle actin-positive fibroblast-like cells at early time points changing with time to a sparse population of smooth muscle actin-negative spindle-shaped cells resembling those of the native fibrocartilaginous TMJ meniscus. Furthermore, the remodeling process showed deposition of predominantly type I collagen, the density and organization of which resembled those of the native meniscus by the 24-week time point. Ingrowth of calsequestrin-positive skeletal muscle tissue was also observed at the periphery of the remodeled UBM-ECM device and was similar to that found at the attachment site of the native meniscus to the surrounding soft tissues. Histologic results were identical for samples excised from both unilaterally and bilaterally treated animals. No adverse changes in the articulating surfaces of the condyle or fossa were observed in UBM-ECM-implanted joints. In the bilaterally treated animals, the unimplanted control side was characterized by degeneration and pitting of the articulating surfaces of both the condyle and the fossa, with disorganized bands of fibrous connective tissue observed within the joint space. Results of this study suggest that the UBM-ECM device provides an effective interpositional material while serving as an inductive template for reconstruction of the TMJ meniscus.

Comparison of Two Porcine-Derived Materials for Repairing Abdominal Wall Defects in Rats

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare the mechanical properties, host responses and incorporation of porcine small intestine submucosa (PSIS) and porcine acellular dermal matrix (PADM) in a rat model of abdominal wall defect repair.Materials and MethodsPrior to implantation, PSIS and PADM were prepared and evaluated in terms of structure and mechanical properties. Full-thickness abdominal wall defects were created in 50 Sprague-Dawley rats, and were repaired using either PSIS or PADM. Rats were sacrificed 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks post-repair and examined for herniation, infection, adhesions, contraction, and changes in the thickness and strength of the tissues incorporated at the defect sites. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were performed to analyze inflammatory responses, collagen deposition and vascularization.ResultsPADM showed more dense collagen deposition and stronger mechanical properties than PSIS prior to implantation (P<0.01). However, the mechanical properties observed after integration with the surrounding native tissues was similar for PADM and PSIS. Both PADM and PSIS showed significant contraction by week 12. However, PADM tissue induced less adhesion and increased in thickness more slowly, and showed less infiltration by foreign giant cells, polymorphonuclear cells, and mononuclear cells. Improved remodeling of host tissue was observed after PSIS implantation, which was apparent from the orientation of bands of fibrous connective tissue, intermixed with newly formed blood vessels by Week 12.ConclusionPSIS showed weaker mechanical properties prior to implantation. However, after implantation PSIS induced more pronounced host responses and showed better incorporation into host tissues than PADM.

Intra Oral Epithelial Bands in a New Born: Report of Two Cases and Review of Literature

Intra oral epithelial bands is a very rarely reported condition. It is sometimes associated with cleft lip and palate [1, 2]. Stenberg et al. suggested that these connective tissue bands stretch between the mandible and the maxilla [3]. Miskynyar reported that congenital adhesion occurs between maxilla and mandible (syngnathism) or between tongue and palatal margins (glossopalatal ankylosis) and he states that adhesions consist of membranous band of epithelium which is supported by connective tissue, muscles or bone [4]. Congenital fusion of jaws is also a very rare condition which may be unilateral or bilateral, and may or may not be associated with syndromes. In the long standing cases, temporomandibular joint ankylosis can occur [5]. Only 17 cases of intra oral bands were found by Spivack and Bennett [6] until 1968 reported as palatoglossal ankylosis in the literature. Laster et al. in 2001 [7] reported only 24 documented cases of congenital maxillo-mandibular fusion. We at our centre Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra, India operated 1,134 cases (Table 1) of cleft patients from February 2007 to July 2010, out of which 664 were males and 470 females. Out of which only two patients presented with synechiae and syngnathia associated with cleft palate. The syndromic patients were 710, the most common syndrome associated was Pierre Robins Sequence. Table 1

The arcade of Struthers: An anatomical study with potential neurosurgical significance.

Background:Significant controversy exists regarding the existence of the so-called arcade of Struthers and whether this structure is involved in some cases of proximal ulnar nerve entrapment. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to further elucidate this anatomy.Methods:Fifteen cadavers (30 sides) underwent dissection of the medial arm with special attention to the course of the ulnar nerve and its relationships to the soft tissues of this region.Results:We identified a thickening in the inferior medial arm that crosses the ulnar nerve and is consistent with the so-called arcade of Struthers in 86.7% of sides. On 57.7% of the sides, the arcade was found to be due to a thickening of the brachial fascia and was classified as a type I arcade. On 19.2% of the sides, the arcade was due to the internal brachial ligament and these were classified as type II arcades. On 23.1% of the sides, the arcade was due to a thickened medial intermuscular septum and these were classified as type III arcades. The mean length of the arcade was 4.3 cm and the distal end of the arcade was, on average, 6.8 cm above the medial epicondyle. Although the presence of an arcade of Struthers was slightly more common in female specimens, this did not reach statistical significance. However, arcades were found more often on right side (P < 0.001).Conclusions:Based on our findings, the arcade of Struthers is an anatomical band of connective tissue in the medial distal arm that crosses the ulnar nerve. This structure was found in the majority of our specimens and may need to be evaluated in proximal ulnar neuropathies. We believe that past studies that have not observed the arcade and past studies with varied findings are due to the various definitions used for this anatomical structure. Using the classification system as demonstrated in the present study may make future communications regarding the arcade of Struthers more exact.

Spontaneous Metritis Related to the Presence of Vaginal Septum in Pregnant Sprague Dawley Crl:CD(SD) Rats

Recently, 6% of 1,176 Sprague Dawley rats examined in our reproductive toxicity studies presented with dark-red uterine contents with or without fetuses demonstrating delayed development. Sometimes, a high proportion of the litter was found dead, and dystocia with death or preterminal euthanasia of the dam occurred. Microscopic findings in the uterus consisted of necrohemorrhagic and suppurative periplacentitis associated with the presence of bacterial colonies identified as Escherichia coli. In the vagina, similar findings were observed that were associated with mucus accumulation and the presence of a transverse occlusive or partially occlusive thin membrane identified as a vaginal septum. Microscopically, this septum consisted of a thin band of connective tissue covered on both sides by a mucous epithelium that was continuous with vaginal epithelium. In some cases, there was only mucus accumulation retained by a septum in the vagina without evidence of bacterial infection. Serological and histological examinations did not reveal any specific pathogenic agent. The presence of these septa in the vagina most likely favored mucus accumulation, nonspecific ascending bacterial infection, and dystocia. This colony of rats presented with an unusually high incidence of vaginal septa as it was described in different strains of mice and rats in the past. We hypothesized that the use of an impedance meter by the breeder--to determine the phase of the estrous cycle by introducing a probe in the vagina--likely facilitated gestation by perforating the vaginal septum in some cases.

The sublime bridge: anatomy and implications in median nerve entrapment

The sublime bridge is a potential site of entrapment of the median nerve in the forearm. To the authors' knowledge, this structure and its relationship to the median nerve have not been studied. The aim of the present study was to quantitate this structure and elucidate its relationship to the median nerve. Sixty adult cadaveric forearms underwent dissection of the sublime bridge. Relationships of this structure were observed, and measurements of its anatomy were made. The relationship of the median nerve to the sublime bridge was observed with range of motion about the forearm. The sublime bridge was found to be tendinous in the majority (45 [75%]) of specimens and muscular in the remaining forearms (15 [25%]). The maximal mean width of the sublime bridge was 7 cm proximally, and the minimal mean width was 3 cm distally. The mean distance from the medial epicondyle to the apex of the sublime bridge was found to be 8.1 cm. The relation of the median nerve to the bridge was always intimate. On 2 sides (1 left and 1 right) from different male specimens, the median nerve was attached to the deep aspect of the sublime bridge by a strong connective tissue band, thus forming a tunnel on the deep aspect of this structure. With range of motion of the forearm, increased compression of the median nerve by the overlying sublime bridge was seen with extension but no other movement. Based on the authors' study, pronator syndrome is an incorrect term applied to compression of the median nerve at the sublime bridge. This potential site of median nerve compression is distinct and has characteristics that can clinically differentiate it from compression of the median nerve between the heads of the pronator teres. The authors hope that these data will be of use to the surgeon in the evaluation and treatment of patients with proximal median nerve entrapment.

Occurrence and distribution of sesamoid bones in squamates: a comparative approach

AbstractJerez, A., Mangione, S. and Abdala, V. 2010. Occurrence and distribution of sesamoid bones in squamates: a comparative approach.—Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 295–305Sesamoids are defined as skeletal elements that develop within a continuous band of regular dense connective tissue (tendon or ligament) adjacent to an articulation or joint. In this work, we discuss developmental data on two squamate species, provide data on the onset of the squamate sesamoids and the muscles they are associated to. Our results show that Mabuya mabouya and Liolaemus albiceps exhibited rather similar ontogenetic patterns and that the first sesamoids appear in embryos. The ossifying sesamoid timing is different between M. mabouya and L. albiceps, being faster in the former. In adults, we found 41 sesamoids, considering both fore and hindlimbs. We did not find any intrataxonomic differences, or any differences between the right and left side of the specimens in relation to the sesamoid presence. We recognize four types of sesamoids: (1) embedded sesamoids; (2) interosseus sesamoids; (3) glide sesamoids; and (4) supporting sesamoids. A table is included with a preliminary survey of the sesamoid distribution pattern in 10 Squamate clades.

The Complexity of Animal Model Generation for Complex DiseasesANIMAL MODEL GENERATION FOR COMPLEX DISEASES

Daniel M. Albert, MD, MS; Aneesh Neekhra, MD; Shoujian Wang, MD, PhD; Soesiawati R. Darjatmoko, BS; Christine M. Sorenson, PhD; Richard R. Dubielzig, DVM; Nader Sheibani, PhDObjectives To study the progressive changes of intense cyclic light–induced retinal degeneration and to determine whether it results in choroidal neovascularization (CNV).Methods Albino rats were exposed to 12 hours of 3000-lux cyclic light for 1, 3, or 6 months. Fundus examination, fundus photography, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography were performed prior to euthanization. Light-exposed animals were euthanized after 1, 3, or 6 months for histopathological evaluation. Retinas were examined for the presence of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal– and nitrotyrosine-modified proteins by immunofluorescence staining.Results Long-term intense cyclic light exposure resulted in retinal degeneration with loss of the outer segments of photoreceptors and approximately two-thirds of the outer nuclear layer as well as development of subretinal pigment epithelium neovascularization after 1 month. Almost the entire outer nuclear layer was absent with the presence of CNV, which penetrated the Bruch membrane and extended into the outer retina after 3 months. Absence of the outer nuclear layer, multiple foci of CNV, retinal pigment epithelial fibrous metaplasia, and connective tissue bands containing blood vessels extending into the retina were observed after 6 months. All intense light–exposed animals showed an increased presence of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal and nitrotyrosine staining. Optical coherence tomographic and angiographic studies confirmed retinal thinning and leakiness of the newly formed blood vessels.Conclusions Our results suggest that albino rats develop progressive stages of retinal degeneration and CNV after long-term intense cyclic light exposure, allowing the detailed study of the pathogenesis and treatment of age-related macular degeneration.Clinical Relevance The ability to study the progressive pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration and CNV will provide detailed knowledge about the disease and aid in the development of target-specific therapy.

Development of Choroidal Neovascularization in Rats With Advanced Intense Cyclic Light–Induced Retinal Degeneration

To study the progressive changes of intense cyclic light-induced retinal degeneration and to determine whether it results in choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Albino rats were exposed to 12 hours of 3000-lux cyclic light for 1, 3, or 6 months. Fundus examination, fundus photography, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography were performed prior to euthanization. Light-exposed animals were euthanized after 1, 3, or 6 months for histopathological evaluation. Retinas were examined for the presence of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal- and nitrotyrosine-modified proteins by immunofluorescence staining. Long-term intense cyclic light exposure resulted in retinal degeneration with loss of the outer segments of photoreceptors and approximately two-thirds of the outer nuclear layer as well as development of subretinal pigment epithelium neovascularization after 1 month. Almost the entire outer nuclear layer was absent with the presence of CNV, which penetrated the Bruch membrane and extended into the outer retina after 3 months. Absence of the outer nuclear layer, multiple foci of CNV, retinal pigment epithelial fibrous metaplasia, and connective tissue bands containing blood vessels extending into the retina were observed after 6 months. All intense light-exposed animals showed an increased presence of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal and nitrotyrosine staining. Optical coherence tomographic and angiographic studies confirmed retinal thinning and leakiness of the newly formed blood vessels. Our results suggest that albino rats develop progressive stages of retinal degeneration and CNV after long-term intense cyclic light exposure, allowing the detailed study of the pathogenesis and treatment of age-related macular degeneration. The ability to study the progressive pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration and CNV will provide detailed knowledge about the disease and aid in the development of target-specific therapy.

Type and ultrastructure ofDidymocystis wedliandKoellikerioides intestinalis(Digenea, Didymozoidae) cysts in captive Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnusLinnaeus, 1758)

The tissue reaction to fish trematodes usually displays encapsulation of parasites, followed by different degree of the inflammatory response, dependent on the site, size and abundance of parasites. Didymozoa (Didymozoidae, Trematoda) are highly abundant and diverse digeneans of pelagic fish, encysted in gonochoristic or hermaphroditic formations in gills, cartilaginous, mucous and connective tissue in nose, mouth and gill cavity, digestive organs, kidneys, gonads, skin and fins. In order to evaluate the type and ultrastructure of the Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) tissue reaction to didymozoids, TEM microscopy of two tissue-embedded didymozoid species was assessed, along with the monoclonal antibodies labeling (anti-fish collagen type I, anti-human cytokeratin, anti-vimentin antibodies). Ultrastructure of Didymocystis wedli (prevalence=61.75%, abundance=28.91) encapsulated in gill filaments and Koellikerioides intestinalis (prevalence=54.65%, abundance=10.96) in the intestinal submucosa, showed that thin parasitic hindbody tegumentum was directly embedded in layers of connective tissue bands. Only scarce cellular elements (lymphocytes, fibroblasts and fibrocytes) infiltrated the connective tissue capsule, differing by its thickness, not the type of filaments expressed. Cysts showed positive reaction to extracellular collagen and both appeared positive for cytoskeletal intermediate filaments vimentin and cytokeratin.

P11: Spontaneous metritis related to the presence of vaginal septum in pregnant Sprague Dawley rats (CRL:CD(SD )): Impacts on reproductive toxicology studies

Recently, in our facilities, approximately 5% of pregnant Sprague Dawley rats in embryofetal toxicity studies presented abnormal dark uterine contents with generally viable fetuses having a delayed development, at the time of C-section (gestation day 21). In rare cases, a high proportion of the litter was found dead. Macroscopic and microscopic findings consisted of necrosis, hemorrhages and polymorphonuclear cell infiltrates of the placenta associated with bacterial colonies identified as Escherichia coli. In the vagina, similar features were observed associated with mucus accumulation and presence of a transverse occlusive or partially occlusive thin membrane identified as a vaginal septum. Microscopically, this septum consisted of a thin band of vascular connective tissue covered by a mucified epithelium. In some cases, there was only mucus accumulation retained by a septum in the vagina. The presence of these septae most likely caused mucus accumulation and secondary non-specific ascending bacterial infection. We hypothesize that this high incidence of metritis observed in pregnant females may be a consequence of an abnormal number of rats with a vaginal septum. Furthermore, the use of an impedance meter by the breeder to determine the phase of the oestrus cycle could facilitate gestation by causing perforation of the vaginal septum in some cases. The consequences in Reproductive Toxicology studies will be discussed.

Morphology of Blood Cells, Liver and Spleen of the Desert Tortoise (Testudo graeca)

The morphological characteristics of peripheral blood cells, the anatomical structure of the liver and spleen were examined in desert tortoise. Forty healthy adult ;Testudo graeca tortoises, 20 females and 20 males were selected for this study. The tortoises were given thorough examination, and a blood sample was collected from the heart by cardiocentesis. The Wright staining method was used for classification of the blood cells. Seven different types of blood cells were determined: erythrocytes, heterophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, monocytes and thrombocytes. Mature erythrocytes of captive Testudo graecawere nucleated ellipsoidal cells. Erythrocytes measurements for males were (length 18.76 ± 2.81 µm × width 9.52 ± 2.23 µm) and for females were (length 19.19 ± 2.90 µm × width 9.84 ± 2.50 µm). The heterophil contain large, eosinophilic, ovoid, cytoplasmic granules with eccentric nucleus. The eosinophil is distinguished by its round, eosinophilic cytoplasmic granules and the nucleus is round to oval, single or bi-lobed, and eccentrically placed within the cytoplasm. The basophil was easily identified by its deeply stained purple, large, round granules that remained tightly adhered to the centrally located nucleus. The lymphocyte contained a small amount of blue staining cytoplasm and a round nucleus with a fine reticular pattern. The monocyte contains a large amount of light blue-gray, finely granular or vacuolated cytoplasm, and an oval or indented nucleus. Thrombocytes were oval-shaped cells contained round, densely stained nucleus. The liver composed of two lobes, right and left which were connected with a narrow band of connective tissue. The parenchyma of the tortoise liver is seen to be composed of intersinusoidal cords of hepatocytes. The spleen grossly appeared as round or oval structure. The parenchyma (splenic pulp) formed of lymphoid tissue and is of two distinct types; white and red pulps.

Morphology and Small-Subunit Ribosomal DNA Sequence of Henneguya adiposa (Myxosporea) from Ictalurus punctatus (Siluriformes)

The original description of Henneguya adiposa, a myxozoan parasitizing channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus, is supplemented with new data on spore morphology, including photomicrographs and line drawings, as well as 18S small-subunit (SSU) ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequence. Elongate, translucent, linear plasmodia were situated between the connective tissue bands of the adipose fin. The myxospore possessed an elongate, lanceolate spore body, flattened parallel to the suture line: 17.1 +/- 1.6 microm (range 14.7-20.5) in length, 4.1 +/- 0.3 microm (range 3.4-4.6) wide in valvular view, and 3.7 +/- 0.3 microm (range 3.2-4.0) thick in sutural view. Polar capsules were pyriform and unequal in length, measuring 7.2 +/- 0.6 microm (range 5.8-8.3) long and 1.3 +/- 0.2 microm (range 0.9-1.9) wide, with at least 8 turns in the polar filament coil. The caudal appendages were 38.0 +/- 6.2 microm (range 23.2-48.8) and split posteriorly. The total length of the spore was 55.6 +/- 6.5 microm (range 40.7-65.8). Phylogenetic analysis of 18S SSU rDNA sequence data placed this isolate within the Myxobolidae, indicating a close relationship to a group of Henneguya species parasitizing channel catfish in the southeast United States.

How a daily and moderate exercise improves ligament healing

Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue which display high resistance to tension, allowing joint stability. However, sudden twisting motion and excessive stretching are causes of sprains. Medical managements involve initial symptomatic treatment and secondary rehabilitation regimen, without beneficial effect regarding the mechanical properties of the tissue. In fact, ligaments never recover their initial resistance to load tension. In this article, we reviewed the macroscopic and biochemical characteristics of normal and injured ligaments, with a special emphasis on the role of cytokines and growth factors during the healing process, and on the beneficial effect of a moderate exercise on the scar formation. Indeed, recent data highlighted: (1) the role of both IL-1 beta and bFGF during the inflammatory state to promote fibroblast and endothelial cell migration into the wound; (2) VEGF helped capillary growth during the proliferative state; (3) whereas TGF beta expression resulted in the deposition of a disorganised fibrotic extracellular matrix. In contrast, mechanical stimulation during a moderate exercise inhibited TGF beta expression, improving the deposition of specific collagen network and the overall ligament healing process.

Intrauterine Adhesions

Joseph Asherman first described intrauterine adhesions in 1948. It is commonly referred to as Asherman's syndrome and intrauterine synechiae. It is characterized by a spectrum ranging from amenorrhea to menstrual disturbance to normal menses. It is frequently associated with infertility. The true incidence is unknown. Most cases occur within close temporal proximity to a pregnancy, usually within 4 months and usually while the woman is in a hypoestrogenized state. Most cases are associated with trauma to the endometrium from surgical procedures, primarily curettage. Increasingly, cases are associated with myomectomy both abdominal and hysteroscopic, removal of septae, and any other intrauterine surgery. Pathology shows fibrous connective tissue bands with or without glandular tissue, although this may range from filmy to dense. The diagnosis is primarily by history and a high index of suspicion. Confirmatory tests are increasingly saline infusion hysterography (SIS) or hysterosalpingogram (HSG), although magnetic resonance imaging has also been used. Ultimately, hysteroscopy is employed for the final diagnosis and treatment. Hysteroscopic lysis of adhesions is the main method of treatment. Dense scar tissue and difficult entry into the cervix may require laparoscopic or ultrasound guidance. Most authors use an intrauterine stent and follow treatment with sequential estrogen and progesterone therapy. Increasingly early intervention either with repeat SIS or HSG or most recently with flexible hysteroscopy has been advocated. Treatments outcomes are difficult to assess as there are no universally agreed upon classification system. However, intrauterine pregnancies rates range from 22 to 45% and live births range from 28 to 32%. The risk of complications for those that achieve pregnancy is significant with a significant risk for placenta accreta and subsequent blood loss, transfusion, and hysterectomy. Prospective controlled studies are needed to determine the best diagnostic and treatments for intrauterine adhesions.