Connective Tissue Structures Research Articles

Simple and Cost-Effective Generation of 3D Cell Sheets and Spheroids Using Curvature-Controlled Paraffin Wax Substrates

The challenges associated with animal testing in pharmaceutical development have driven the search for alternative in vitro models that mimic human tissues more accurately. In this study, we present a simple and cost-effective method for generating 3D cell sheets and spheroids using curvature-controlled paraffin wax films, which are easily accessible laboratory materials that eliminate the need for extracellular matrix (ECM) components or thermo-responsive polymers. By adjusting the curvature of the paraffin wax film, we successfully generated human periodontal ligament fibroblast (HPdLF) cell sheets and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hBMSC) spheroids. Key parameters, such as cell density, substrate curvature, and incubation time, were identified as critical factors for optimizing the formation of these 3D structures. In addition, the use of quantum dots (QDs) for cell tracking enabled long-term visualization and distinction between different cell types within complex tissue-like structures. We further demonstrated that wrapping the hBMSC spheroids with HPdLF cell sheets partially replicated the connective tissue structure of the periodontal ligament surrounding the tooth root. This highlights the potential of this platform for the construction of more sophisticated tissue-mimicking assemblies. In conclusion, curvature-controlled paraffin wax films provide a versatile and practical approach for 3D cell cultures. This simplifies the generation of both cell sheets and spheroids, offering a promising tool for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications, where precise cell-to-cell interactions are essential.Graphical abstract

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis: Surgical Release vs. Conservative Therapy

Introduction Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons for visits to orthopedic clinics. This tendinopathy can cause medial heel pain, stiffness, and tenderness on the plantar surface of the foot. Both conservative and surgical methods are employed in its treatment. Aim The aim of this study is to evaluate selected conservative treatment methods, such as stretching, the use of orthotic insoles, splints, injections, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, and taping, as well as surgical treatment options. The study presents a comparison of these methods in terms of their effectiveness, advantages, and disadvantages. State of Knowledge The plantar fascia is a stiff, connective tissue structure extending along the plantar surface of the foot. Biomechanical load on the fascia, which supports the medial longitudinal arch, can lead to degenerative changes that underlie plantar fasciitis. Symptoms include pain, particularly in the mornings and late evenings, which intensifies with palpation of the heel area. Summary (Conclusions) Conservative treatments for plantar fasciitis are effective in 90% of patients. There are no studies that conclusively demonstrate the superiority of one treatment method over another. Thus, the choice of therapy should be tailored to the patient's lifestyle, activity level, and financial capability. Surgical intervention is necessary in cases of chronic plantar fasciitis which remains resistant to conservative treatments.

Analysing the informative content of the upper jaw pathology visual examination

Objective. To conduct a comparative analysis of the informative content of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), multispiral computed tomography (MSCT) and paranasal sinuses half-axial X-ray images in the upper jaw pathology diagnosis. Materials and methods. 96 CBCT and MSCT scans of the upper jaw and the similar number of X-ray images of the same patients were analyzed. Results. The analysis of a three-dimensional image and native slice reading in the Planmeca programme makes it possible to determine metric parameters, localization, prevalence of the pathological process and involvement of the upper jaw structures validly. Software features of the Radiant and OneDemand3D had error interval of р ≥ 0,2 mm while analyzing the same criteria. Half-axial X-ray examination demonstrated the lowest informative content. Conclusion. The most informative method of visualization of the upper jaw connective tissue structures, pathological processes, their borders and mutual involvement is CBCT. This is predetermined by the interface functionalities.

Результаты хирургического лечения проляпса в области заднего сегмента тазового дна у пациенток с раком молочной железы на фоне эндокринной терапии

The cause of pelvic organ ptosis in women is damage or weakening of the connective tissue and muscle structures of the pelvic floor, which normally serve as a supporting framework for pelvic organs and are estrogen-dependent. Most women with receptor-positive breast cancer are prescribed adjuvant endocrine therapy after surgery to suppress estrogen levels. The authors investigated the results of surgery of posterior pelvic floor segment prolapse in this category of patients (n = 50). The study was conducted in a comparative aspect with a group of patients who do not suffer from breast cancer (n = 50). For anatomical correction of prolapse, posterior colporaphy, anterior levatoroplasty or sphincterolevatoroplasty, resection of rectal mucosa prolapse using the STARR method, sacrocolporectopexy, depending on the pathology of certain structures of the pelvic floor, were performed. The evaluation of the treatment results was carried out after 3 years using clinical, radiological (defecography) and physiological methods (anorectal functional tests) studies. The authors showed that the symptoms of obstructive defecation and anal incontinence were less amenable to correction in patients with endocrine therapy. The authors concluded that it is necessary to prevent pelvic organ prolapse and the advantages of surgical correction of the initial forms of prolapse in this group of patients.

Etiology and pathogenesis of pelvic floor dysfunction (literature review)

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in women includes conditions such as vaginal relaxation syndrome (VRS), pelvic organ prolapse (POP), urinary and fecal incontinence, obstructed defecation, and sexual dysfunction. Etiopathogenesis is associated with disorders of the pelvic floor fixing apparatus that arise due to traumatic childbirth, genetic changes in the structure of connective tissue (polymorphism of the gene for connective tissue enzymes NAT2). Techniques used to diagnose pelvic floor injuries include x-rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. In this publication, we presented an overview of the most relevant and recent data on the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis of DTD.

A concise review of plantar fasciitis: Diagnosis, treatment, and management

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick connective tissue structure that supports the arch of the foot. This condition can substantially affect quality of life, limiting mobility and daily activities. This review aims to provide a thorough overview of plantar fasciitis, including its etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and preventive measures. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practices and current research trends in the management of this prevalent condition.

Carbon Nanotube/MXene Composite with a Dense Regular Connective Tissue Structure and Its Application in Lithium-Ion Batteries

Carbon Nanotube/MXene Composite with a Dense Regular Connective Tissue Structure and Its Application in Lithium-Ion Batteries

EDUCATIONAL AND METHODOLOGICAL FUNDAMENTALS OF TEACHING THE TOPIC "ANATOMY OF THE SUPPORTING APPARATUS OF THE EYE"

The article is devoted to the analysis of the peculiarities of teaching the topic "Supporting apparatus of the eye" in domestic medical higher education institutions. Given the importance of studying the anatomy of the connective tissue structures of the eye socket for understanding the spread of infectious processes, we believe that in modern curricula on normal human anatomy, methodologists pay insufficient attention to their study. As a rule, these questions are only a small part of the wide variations of the topic "Accessory structures of the eye". At the same time, the peculiarities of the structure of the periosteum of the eye socket, the orbital septum, the socket of the eyeball, Whitnall's and Lockwood's ligaments, the tendinous funnel, the fascia of the rectus and oblique muscles have an extremely complex structure. Thorough knowledge of these features is a necessary condition for the development of the clinical thinking of the future doctor. The development of modern technologies for the surgical treatment of many eye diseases requires scientists and teachers to improve their knowledge of the structure of certain connective tissue structures of the eye. For example, the features of the structure and attachment of Tenon's capsule in the limbus area are the formation of an area where the approach to the fibrous membrane of the eye during surgical interventions can be carried out without damaging it. Nowadays, aesthetic surgery of the eye area is gaining particular popularity. Blepharoplasty is one of the surgical interventions most often performed in plastic surgery. Without a perfect knowledge of the structure of the orbital septum, safe performance of blepharoplasty is impossible. The surgeon needs to be oriented in the peculiarities of the structure of the orbital septum and the differences in its structure in the areas of the upper and lower eyelids. It is important to note that in the lower part of the eye socket, the space behind the orbital septum is much larger than in the upper part, it sinks into the depth of the eye socket, behind the back pole of the eye and is filled with fatty tissue, the growth of which is often an indication for surgical intervention. The structure of the upper part of the space behind the orbital septum is somewhat more complex, because it contains many vessels, nerves and connective tissue structures.

A Clinical Study of Thyroid Abnormalities and Autoantibodies in Patients Diagnosed With Anti-nuclear Antibody Positive Autoimmune Connective Tissue Disorders: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study.

Autoimmune connective tissue disorders (CTDs) are characterized by inflammation of the connective tissue structures and immune system aberrations, such as autoantibody production. This study investigates the prevalence and clinical significance of thyroid abnormalities in patients with anti-nuclear antibody (ANA)-positive autoimmune CTDs. This prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pune, from September 2022 to June 2024. Eighty patients diagnosed with ANA-positive CTDs were included. Comprehensive histories were collected from them and clinical examinationsand routine investigations were performed. Blood samples were collected for thyroid function tests and autoantibody tests. Thyroid ultrasound investigations were also performed. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. The study revealed a significant prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among participants, with 39 (48.75%) exhibiting some form of thyroid abnormality. Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common condition in 18 (22.50%) participants, predominantly affecting females. Thyroid autoantibodies were present in 32 (40%) participants, with thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO Ab) being the most common seen in 17 (21.25%) participants. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was the most prevalent CTD among participants, seen in 44 (55%) participants, followed by Sjogren's syndrome (SS)seen in 19 (23.75%) participants. The study underscores the necessity of routine thyroid function screening in patients with ANA-positive CTDs to facilitate early detection and management of thyroid abnormalities, thereby preventing progression to overt hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The findings highlight the significant association between thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune CTDs, advocating for a holistic approach to patient care.

Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and spontaneous CSF leaks: the connective tissue conundrum.

Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, is a key component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which plays a crucial role in the structure and support of connective tissues. Abnormalities in collagen associated with connective tissue disorders (CTD) can lead to neuroinflammation and weaken the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a semi-permeable membrane that separates the brain's extracellular fluid from the bloodstream. This compromise in the BBB can result from disruptions in ECM components, leading to neuroinflammatory responses, neuronal damage, and increased risks of neurological disorders. These changes impact central nervous system homeostasis and may exacerbate neurological conditions linked to CTD, manifesting as cognitive impairment, sensory disturbances, headaches, sleep issues, and psychiatric symptoms. The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of heritable CTDs that result from varying defects in collagen and the ECM. The most prevalent subtype, hypermobile EDS (hEDS), involves clinical manifestations that include joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, autonomic dysfunction, mast cell activation, chronic pain, as well as neurological manifestations like chronic headaches and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. Understanding the connections between collagen, CSF, inflammation, and the BBB could provide insights into neurological diseases associated with connective tissue abnormalities and guide future research.

Microscopic methods to study meat and meat product quality

Reliable information about meat quality at all stages of the production process is necessary to ensure high quality of meat products. The structure of muscle, connective and fat tissues plays a direct role in formation of meat quality. Microscopic methods allow investigating the meat structure and determining its change depending on a range of endo- and exogenous factors (animal species, breed, sex, conditions of raising and slaughter) and on a type of technological processing. The paper presents the main directions of using microscopic analysis in investigation of meat and finished meat products. An advantage of microscopy is presentation of results in a visual form as well as a possibility of performing morphometry, including with the use of computer systems of image analysis, and obtaining quantitative characteristics of structures. Most common are light microscopy and electron microscopy. Due to various staining procedures, light microscopy enables detecting different components of a sample, studying topography and morphology of tissues and cells. Electron microscopy gives information about the ultrastructure of cells and their chemical composition. The paper discusses possibilities of microscopy in assessment of composition and detection of falsification of finished meat products. It has been noted that the use of several approaches and methods of staining allows reliable identification of many components, including components of plant origin. Histological methods can ensure detection of falsification and control of meat product composition at the state level.

HISTOLOGICAL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF THE TUNICA ALBUGINEA OF THE OVARY

Just below the surface epithelium of the ovary is the tunica albuginea, which is a tight irregular connective tissue structure that gives the tissue its white color and contains fibroblast cells. Tunica albuginea, which is more resistant to environmental factors, contains fewer cells and is rich in collagen fibers, is observed as the niche of preantral follicles. It has been observed that fibroblasts forming collagen fibers provide the development of follicles with the paracrine factors and cytokines they secrete and function as a nourishing cell layer. After the graaf follicle forms the corpus luteum, fibroblasts in the adjacent tunica albuginea proliferate and the thickness of this structure increases. The tunica albuginea undergoes frequent renewal due to the corpus luteum structures formed in rats. When the corpus luteum is formed, new capillaries and venules are formed in the adjacent tunica albuginea. This structure may be a suitable model for investigating the migration of cells from the bone marrow to the ovary via vessels. It can be suggested that mesenchymal cells and very small embryonic/epiblast-like stem cells (VSELs), which show pluripotent stem cell characteristics, may migrate from the bone marrow to the tunica albuginea through vascular structures and that the bone marrow may be the source of these cells, which have been previously shown to be present in the ovary. The aim of this review is to examine the effects of the tunica albuginea on the development of follicles and the dynamic structure of the ovary.

Systematic analysis of the pharmacology of myoinositol and D-chiroinositola

The article presents an analysis of publications on myoinositol in order to clarify the possibilities of prescribing drugs based on it. Myoinositol is one of the endogenous human metabolites that has a significant effect on the functioning of cells and tissues of the whole body. The main function of myoinositol and its derivatives is to participate in intracellular signal transmission and ensure the functioning of such important receptors as insulin receptors, catecholamines, metabotropic receptors of various neurotransmitters, growth factors, etc. (Myoinositol is the basis for the synthesis of an important group of signaling molecules, inositol phosphates, which mediate signal transmission from growth factor receptors and neurotransmitters). Most inositol-dependent proteins with known functions are necessary for the vital functions of the cardiovascular, immune system, and connective tissue structure. Equally important is the role of myoinositol in maintaining the functioning of the central nervous system (including neurotrophic and neuroprotective roles), sugar metabolism (primarily the signaling cascade of insulin) and the functioning of the kidneys and liver. Myoinositol subsidies contribute to the prevention of folate-resistant malformations and neuroprotection of the brain under stress.

Surgical training in extraperitoneal laparoscopic para‑aortic lymphadenectomy for the treatment of gynecological cancer using a Thiel‑embalmed cadaver.

The extraperitoneal laparoscopic approach (ELPAN) for para-aortic lymphadenectomy provides excellent visibility of the left side of the aorta, thus facilitating surgery in the retroperitoneal space. This technique is highly complex compared with the transperitoneal approach. In particular, advanced techniques are required to develop an appropriate surgical field in the narrow retroperitoneal space; therefore, surgeons need to undergo a significant amount of training to become competent. A variety of tools are available for surgical training but are limited by their ability to reproduce complex anatomy. Thus, cadavers may represent the most suitable tool for learning this unique technique. The present study describes a surgical training protocol for the ELPAN technique using a Thiel-embalmed human cadaver and provides a step-by-step description of the ELPAN technique performed at Okayama University (Okayama, Japan). A 72-year-old Thiel-embalmed female cadaver was used to develop a protocol for surgical training in the ELPAN technique that effectively reproduced the methodology required in clinical practice. A training method for ELPAN surgery was developed and successfully completed using the Thiel-embalmed cadaver that secured the surgical field in the retroperitoneal space and permitted resection of the lymph nodes. The Thiel-embalmed cadaver tissue possessed excellent properties for surgical training, including color tone, flexibility, and the membrane structure of connective and fat tissues. In addition, this method of fixation preserved stiffness and elasticity of the peritoneum, although large vessels were slightly fragile and poorly extensible. Surgical training using a Thiel-embalmed human cadaver represents a valuable option for learning the ELPAN surgical technique. However, this technique may be unsuitable for training in perivenous manipulation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to describe the use of Thiel-embalmed cadavers as a tool for surgeons to undergo training in the ELPAN technique.

UNUSUAL ASSOCIATION OF MENINGIOMA AND PITUITARY HYPOPLASIA IN A PATIENT WITH OSTEOGENESIS IMPERFECTA

Osteogenesis imperfecta (O.I.) is a rare inherited disorder that alters the physiological structure of connective tissue. In some cases, several neurological features have been described. We report.the case.of.a.10years old boy with a knownfamilyhistory of type I OI who suffered from repeated bone fractures, dorsal kyphoscoliosis, bone fragilityand severe stature weight growthdelay. The Brain MRI revealed pituitary hypoplasia, with a fortuitous discovery of a parietal plane meningioma. The association of osteogenesis imperfecta and meningioma, as well as osteogenesis imperfecta and pituitary hypoplasia, have rarely been reported in the literature however, no accessible case of the association of the three entities has been described before within the limits of our research.The objective of our work is to demonstrate a possible pathophysiological link between these three entities.

Tissue Interactions in Dense Tissues of the Orofacial Region in Patients with Connective Tissue Dysplasia.

This study aimed to investigate the rate and quality of maturation of the mineral component of impacted teeth 38 and 48 and a fragment of the human lower jaw with connective tissue dysplasia (CTD) in different periods of postnatal ontogenesis. The study involved 102 males (76 with CTD and 26 without CTD), divided into age groups: 31-40, 41-50 and 51-60 years. For medical reasons, teeth 38 and 48 were removed from each patient, as well as a fragment of the alveolar part of the lower jaw in the projection of teeth 38 and 48 measuring 0.5 × 0.5 cm. The odontological parameters, the mineral density of the enamel and the lower jaw, the length and width of the enamel prisms, the spatial organisation of collagen fibrils and the dimensions of the bone plates of the lower jaw were determined. A decrease in optical density was observed at the age of 41-50 and 51-60 years with dysplasia, which indicated a decrease in mineral density and the presence of total areas of hypomineralisation relative to the age of 31-40 years. In the age groups of 41-50 and 51-60 years, pronounced sclerosis and deformation of the delimiting elements were observed at the border of the connective tissue structures and the periosteum. At the age of 31-40 years, the level of stratification of the bone plates was local; after 40 years, it was generalised. Progressive osteoporosis of the lower jaw and incomplete amelogenesis are obstacles to the correct and harmonious eruption of the lower 'wisdom' teeth after 30 years.

An estimation of the biomechanical properties of the continent and incontinent woman bladder via inverse finite element analysis.

Stress urinary incontinence often results from pelvic support structures' weakening or damage. This dysfunction is related to direct injury of the pelvic organ's muscular, ligamentous or connective tissue structures due to aging, vaginal delivery or increase of the intra-abdominal pressure, for example, defecation or due to obesity. Mechanical changes alter the soft tissues' microstructural composition and therefore may affect their biomechanical properties. This study focuses on adapting an inverse finite element analysis to estimate the in vivo bladder's biomechanical properties of two groups of women (continent group (G1) and incontinent group (G2)). These properties were estimated based on MRI, by comparing measurement of the bladder neck's displacements during dynamic MRI acquired in Valsalva maneuver with the results from inverse analysis. For G2, the intra-abdominal pressure was adjusted after applying a 95% impairment to the supporting structures. The material parameters were estimated for the two groups using the Ogden hyperelastic constitutive model. Finite element analysis results showed that the bladder tissue of women with stress urinary incontinence have the highest stiffness (α1 = 0.202 MPa and µ1 = 7.720 MPa) approximately 47% higher when compared to continent women. According to the bladder neck's supero-inferior displacement measured in the MRI, the intra-abdominal pressure values were adjusted for the G2, presenting a difference of 20% (4.0 kPa for G1 and 5.0 kPa for G2). The knowledge of the pelvic structures' biomechanical properties, through this non-invasive methodology, can be crucial in the choice of the synthetic mesh to treat dysfunction when considering personalized options.

Ovarian dermoid cyst in a buffalo

AbstractOvarian dermoid cyst is characterised by the presence of hair follicles, sebaceous glands grossly observed as clusters of matted hair in greyish cheesy material in the vicinity of ovaries. Upon examination of 235 buffalo genitalia, five were found to have abnormal ovarian texture and were relatively large in size. Further investigation revealed presence of dermoid cyst in these ovaries. Histopathological analysis showed degenerated primary, secondary and tertiary/Graafian follicles in the ovarian parenchyma, with patches of neuro‐ectodermal rosette‐like structures composed of glial cells. Other extra‐gonadal tissues often less organised were also observed like cartilage, fibrous connective tissue and glandular structures. In two of the specimens, corpus luteum with degenerated luteal cells was also present in the parenchyma of the ovary. These detailed investigations pointed to the infertility problems in buffaloes associated with this condition and often dictated in slaughterhouse‐derived ovaries. It has clinical significance as these structures are often confused with cystic ovarian disease upon rectal palpation, and treatment is unsuccessful in reducing the size of the ovary at the field level.

Cardiac defects of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders: a retrospective cohort study.

Defective connective tissue structure may cause individuals with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) or hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) to develop cardiac defects. We conducted a retrospective chart review of adult patients treated in the EDS Clinic from November 1, 2019, to June 20, 2022 to identify those with cardiac defects. Echocardiogram data were collected using a data collection service. All EDS Clinic patients were evaluated by a single physician and diagnosed according to the 2017 EDS diagnostic criteria. Patient demographic, family and cardiac history were extracted from self-reported responses from a REDCap clinical intake questionnaire. Patients with at least 1 available echocardiogram (ECHO) were selected for the study (n = 568). The prevalence of aortic root dilation in patients with hEDS was 2.7% and for HSD was 0.6%, with larger measurements for males than females and with age. Based on self-reported cardiac history that was verified from the medical record, patients with hEDS with bradycardia (p = 0.034) or brain aneurysm (p = 0.015) had a significantly larger average adult aortic root z-score. In contrast, patients with HSD that self-reported dysautonomia (p = 0.019) had a significantly larger average aortic root z-score. The prevalence of diagnosed mitral valve prolapse in patients with hEDS was 3.5% and HSD was 1.8%. Variants of uncertain significance were identified in 16 of 84 patients that received genetic testing based on family history. These data reveal a low prevalence of cardiac defects in a large cohort of well-characterized hEDS and HSD patients. Differences in cardiovascular issues were not observed between patients with hEDS vs. HSD; and our findings suggest that cardiac defects in patients with hEDS or HSD are similar to the general population.

Research progress of periostin and osteoporosis.

Periostin, as a unique extracellular matrix, is mainly produced during ontogeny and in adult connective tissues that bear mechanical loads, such as heart valves, skin, periodontal ligaments, tendons, and bones. By binding to the integrin on the cell surface and activating Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, Fak and other signaling pathways, it regulates the tissues in vivo positively or negatively, and also has different effects on the occurrence and development of various diseases. Periostin is an important factor, which can promote cell proliferation, stimulate tissue repair and maintain the integrity of the structure and function of connective tissue. It also promotes the formation, regeneration and repairation of bone. Recent studies have shown that periostin is important in bone metabolic diseases. The increased expression of periostin can affect bone mineral density at different sites, and its relationship with traditional biochemical markers of bone turnover has not been conclusively established. This article reviews the research results and potential applications of periostin in osteoporosis.