Histology Of Glands Research Articles

Proliferative Activity of Myoepithelial Cells in Normal and Diabetic Parotid Glands Based on Double Immunostaining Labeling

AIM: This study aimed to examine the effect of diabetes mellitus on the histology of parotid glands and to give a scientific overview of the distribution and the proliferative activity of myoepithelial cells (MECs) encircling both ducts and acini in parotid gland of both normal and diabetic mongrel dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve male mongrel dogs were used in the experiment and divided into two equal groups, group I, control group, group II, dogs with alloxan-induced diabetes. The dogs of the group II were injected by fresh preparation of a single dose of 100 mg/kg body weight of alloxan monohydrate dissolved in physiological saline. Ten days later, blood glucose level was determined using enzymatic colorimetric test; dogs presented a glucose level at or above 200 mg/dL were included in the diabetic group of the experiment. Three months later, dogs were sacrificed and the parotid glands from all groups were dissected and prepared for histological examination and double immunohistochemical expression of both actin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). RESULTS: Histological findings using H and E staining confirmed that the parotid gland parenchyma of the diabetic group had glandular atrophy characterized by loss of normal gland structure, acinar degeneration, and dilatation of the duct system with the presence of duct like structure. Moreover, there was a predominance of the fibrous component with the presence of fat cells within the gland compartments. Immunohistochemical findings of parotid gland of control group revealed positive scattered actin staining of weak to mild quantity in cells embracing some acini and intralobular ducts. Expression of PCNA in actin-positive cells revealed few scattered reactions embracing some acini and small ducts. Parotid gland of diabetic dogs revealed positive actin staining of mild-to-moderate quantity in the cells encircling the acini, intralobular, and some interlobular ducts. Expression of PCNA in actin- positive cells revealed mild-to-moderate positive reaction more concentrated in the cells surrounding both acini and intercalated ducts. CONCLUSION: Routine histological findings of diabetic dogs in our findings showed abundant pathological changes in parenchymal tissue elements, including acinar, ductal, and MECs that had a significant impact on saliva production and secretion resulting in dry mouth. The proliferative activity of MECs in the control group indicated a routine regeneration process, whereas the abundant proliferative activity in the diabetic group might indicate pathological transformation rather than regeneration, especially because no remedial measures were taken during this investigation.

Hemin protects against cell stress induced by estrogen and progesterone in rat mammary glands via modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB pathways.

Mammary gland hyperplasia is one of the risk factors for breast cancer. Till date, there is no study that has addressed the effect of hemin in this condition. Thus, this study was designed to evaluate the effect of the heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) inducer (hemin) and its inhibitor (zinc protoporphyrin-IX) (ZnPP-IX) on mammary gland hyperplasia (MGH) induced by estrogen and progesterone in adult albino rats. Forty adult female albino rats were divided into the control group, MGH group, MGH + Hemin group, and MGH + Hemin + ZnPP-IX group. Serum levels of estradiol and progesterone were measured. Breast tissues were taken for estimation of oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic markers. Mammary gland histology was performed, and expression of Ki-67, Beclin, and P53 in breast tissue was also measured. Estrogen and progesterone administration induced hyperplasia of cells lining the ducts of the breast tissues associated with increased diameter and height of the nipples as well as increased oxidative stress markers, inflammatory markers, antiapoptotic markers, and cell autophagy. Hemin administration during induction of MGH can reverse all the affected parameters. Then, these effects were abolished by ZnPP-IX administration. We concluded that hemin administration can antagonize the cell stress induced by estrogen and progesterone and protect against the development of mammary gland hyperplasia via modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB pathways.

Aim2 Deficiency Ameliorates Lacrimal Gland Destruction and Corneal Epithelium Defects in an Experimental Dry Eye Model.

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial disease that is associated with inflammation. Excessive DNA is present in the tear fluid of patients with DED. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) is a key DNA sensor. This study aimed to investigate the role of AIM2 in the pathogenesis of DED. DED was induced by injection of scopolamine (SCOP). Aberrant DNA was detected by cell-free DNA (cfDNA) ELISA and immunostaining. Corneal epithelial defects were assessed by corneal fluorescein staining, zonula occludens-1 immunostaining and TUNEL. Tear production was analyzed by phenol red thread test. Lacrimal gland (LG) histology was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and transmission electron microscopy examination. Macrophage infiltration in LG was detected by immunohistochemistry for the macrophage marker F4/80. Gene expression was analyzed by RT-qPCR. Protein production was examined by immunoblot analysis or ELISA. Aim2-/- mice displayed a normal structure and function of LG and cornea under normal conditions. In SCOP-induced DED, wild type (WT) mice showed increased cfDNA in tear fluid, and aberrant accumulations of dsDNA accompanied by increased AIM2 expression in the LG. In SCOP-induced DED, WT mice displayed damaged structures of LG, reduced tear production, and severe corneal epithelium defects, whereas Aim2-/- mice had a better preserved LG structure, less decreased tear production, and improved clinical signs of dry eye. Furthermore, genetic deletion of Aim2 suppressed the increased infiltration of macrophages and inhibited N-GSDMD and IL18 production in the LG of SCOP-induced DED. Aim2 deficiency alleviates ocular surface damage and LG inflammation in SCOP-induced DED.

Effects of Single and Combined Exposure to Environmentally Relevant Concentrations of Cyfluthrin and Copper on Digestive Gland Histology of Lymnaea stagnalis

Pyrethroid insecticides and heavy metals frequently co-exist in aquatic systems, due to intensive anthropogenic activities, and their effects on aquatic organisms are needed to be investigated. In the present work, single and combined effects of environmentally realistic concentrations of cyfluthrin and copper on the digestive gland histology of the freshwater pond snail (Lymnaea stagnalis) were evaluated. Snails were exposed to 1 µg/L cyfluthrin, 10 µg/L copper, and 1 µg/L cyfluthrin + 10 µg/L copper mixture for 96 h. Cyfluthrin-exposed samples showed apparent vacuolization, basal lamina separations, and disrupted digestive cells. Exposure to copper alone gave rise to enlargements of the tubule lumens and the intertubular area, degenerated tubules, atrophied basophilic cells, prominently disrupted and ruptured digestive cells, and nuclear enlargements in some basophilic cells. Cyfluthrin and copper mixture caused more severe histopathological changes in the digestive gland. General tissue appearance was altered by prominently degenerated, and fused tubules lacking cellular structure; tubule lumens filled with cellular content were noted. Increased intertubular regions were filled with connective tissue formations. Progressive disruption of digestive cells; and basophilic cell atrophy were also observed. The findings of the current study highlighted that cyfluthrin and copper at environmentally relevant concentrations caused a biological response in L. stagnalis; however, this response was more intense following their co-exposure.

In memory of Anton Vitalievich Nemilov (1879–1942)

The article is devoted to a brief scientific biography of the world-famous Soviet histologist, professor Anton Vitalievich Nemilov, a student of the Russian histologist and embryologist Alexander Stanislavovich Dogel.
 This article aims to clarify the contribution of prof. A.V. Nemilov to the largest scientific areas of research in biology in the first half of the 20th century and in the formation of knowledge in biology, which has become axiomatic by now, and demonstrate its role in solving the problems in practical biology.
 This work used materials from the Central State Archive of St. Petersburg and the Museum of Kursk State Medical University.
 Professor A.V. Nemilov contributed to neuromorphology, histophysiology, and endocrine gland histology, as well as to the methodology and methods of histology teaching in the history of Leningrad State University and Leningrad Agricultural Institute.
 Professor A.V. Nemilov, as one of the leaders of Leningrad State University, participated in the defense of the besieged Leningrad in 19411942.
 The results of the scientific studies of the students of professor A.V. Nemilov contributed to scientific morphological research, the methodology of histology teaching, the organization of the countrys higher education system, and the preservation of the heritage and memory of their teacher.

Effects of two local anesthetics (Mepivacaine - Articaine) on histological features of submandibular salivary gland and thyroid hormones of experimental animals

Background: To examine the histological features of the hamster's submandibular salivary gland following the administration of mepivacaine and articaine as local anaesthetics Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess the anaesthetic effectiveness of both anaesthetics on thyroid hormonal levels and the histopathological changes of the gland. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four male hamsters were divided into three groups. The submandibular glands were removed and preserved in 10% phosphate buffered formalin (PH7.4) for histological investigation, while Group B and C (each of eight animals) received injections of mepivacine and articaine 2% HCl local anaesthetic at a rate of 0.05 ml per second four times after administration. In order to evaluate the amounts of the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxin in the blood samples collected (T4) Results: Salivary gland histology using light microscopy revealed normal acini, striated ducts, and glanular ducts in group I, but atrophic changes in serous acini, a loss of acinar architecture, and congestion of inter-acinar blood capillaries in groups II and III, with the latter change being more pronounced in group III as a result of a longer induction period. Long-term use of mepivacaine and articaine medicines results in toxic effects and changes to the salivary glands that indicate stress and damage. When compared to the control, there was a statistically significant rise in T3 and TSH and a substantial drop in T4 in the experimental animals.

Histology and histochemistry of the major salivary glands in the southern white-breasted hedgehog (Erinaceus concolor).

This study aimed to investigate the major salivary glands in the southern white-breasted hedgehog (Erinaceus concolor) histologically and histochemically. Five adult males were included in this study. The results showed that anatomically the shape of the parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands of the Erinaceus concolor was respectively almost pear, elliptical to pyramidal and oval. Histologically, the parotid gland had serous acini and secretory cells showed negative reaction to alcian blue (AB) (pH=2.5) and negative response to aldehyde fuchsin (AF), methylene blue (MB) and PAS stains. The submandibular gland was a mixed gland of mucous and serous acini. The mucous acini were strongly positive for PAS, AB, MB and AF. However, serous acini were week for PAS and negative against AB, MB and AF stains. The sublingual gland was purely composed of mucous acini. The mucous acini of the sublingual gland were strongly positives for PAS, AB and MB methods. While their reaction to the AF staining was negative. In conclusion, the histological and histochemical observations of the major salivary glands of the southern white-breasted hedgehog (E. concolor) indicated that these glands shown similarities and some special different histochemical features as compared to other mammalian species.

Phenotypic description of Egyptian endemic centipedes, genus Scolopendra Linnaeus, 1758 with a histological study of its venom glands

Centipedes are widely distributed over all continents. They have significant medicinal value and high toxicity, making them an intriguing subject for evolutionary research. The current study aims to provide the first comprehensive analysis of the morphology, description, and distribution preferences of the Egyptian Scolopendromorpha centipede fauna. According to surveillance research in Egypt, two Scolopendra species have been re-described. Scolopendra canidensNewport.1844 were discovered in only one location, whereas Scolopendra morsitans s Linnaeus,1758 was more abundant. Both venomous glands were histochemically investigated. This study is the first comparative report on the histology and histochemistry of the venom glands of the Egyptian centipede species. Both species’ glands are primarily composed of columnar secretory cells radially arranged side by side and open through pores in a central chitinous duct. Each secretory cell is enclosed in striated muscle fibers. The secretion of both glands takes the shape of small PAS-positive granules, suggesting the presence of neutral polysaccharides. According to this surveillance study, the most abundant species was Scolopendra morsitans s Linnaeus,1758. Scolopendra canidens canidensNewport.1844 were found only on the Northwest coast of Egypt. The findings also revealed that the analyzed species are comparable in terms of their venom morphology and fundamental chemical composition.

Petroleum-based and biodegradable microplastics alter tissue structure and fecundity in the eastern mudsnail (Ilyanassa obsoleta)

Microplastics are hazardous to aquatic life. Most experiments focus on the effects of a single type of microbead, while in the environment, organisms are exposed to irregularly shaped fragments belonging to several chemical groups. The effects of biodegradable plastics are unknown. We tested the effects of mixed-source (MS) petroleum-based and biodegradable (polylactic acid, PLA) microplastics on the intertidal eastern mudsnail, Ilyanassa obsoleta (Say, 1822), a benthic grazer. MS plastics were collected from local coastal areas (polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate, combined) and were tested at three exposures, including one similar to concentrations found locally (2250 particles/kg sediment). Plastics were milled to be similar in size to the biofilm–sediment mix provided to the snails as food (32.94 µm2 for sediment, 137.99 µm2 for MS, and 31.16 µm2 for PLA). Locally relevant exposures of MS microplastics disrupted digestive gland histology, while extreme exposures additionally increased the number of hemocytes and reduced fecundity. Effects of PLA were similar to those of MS microplastics, at the extreme exposure tested here. These results indicate that both petroleum-based and biodegradable microplastics disrupt the structure of the digestive gland and that environmentally relevant exposures induce “hidden” tissue-level changes that are invisible without specialized techniques.

Anatomical, Histological and Radiological Studies of Parotid Salivary Glands of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) with Comparison to Baladi Dog

The present study was designed to investigate and compare the gross anatomy and histology of the parotid glands, with details of their ducts and radicals, in dogs and foxes, using contrast radiographs. It was applied on six heads for each apparently healthy, adult Baladi dog and red fox that was euthanatized by pentobarbital. All parotid salivary glands were dissected for morphological investigations. Two specimens were injected through the parotid papilla by colored latex neoprene to show the intra glandular distribution of the parotid duct and the other one was inoculated by Urographin for lateral radiograph. The parotid salivary gland appeared as a thin, unevenly triangular shaped gland, located ventrally to the base of the ear. Dorsal border of the gland was notched in the dog but not in the red fox. The parotid radicals had four main branches in the dog, while three major radicals were seen in red fox. Portions of the right and left lobes of parotid salivary glands from other three heads for each dog and fox were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for histological and histochemical investigation. The parotid gland of the dog consisted of pure serous acini, while it consisted of both serous and mucous secretory units in the fox. The acinar cells in the dog revealed a weak positive reaction to the Alcian blue stain. On the contrary, acinar cells in the fox were particularly mucous adenomeres, displaying a significantly high positive reaction. Both secretory acinar cells and duct system lining cells in the dog and fox parotid gland showed weak positive reaction to Periodic Acid-Schiff stain. This work gave a detailed description of parotid salivary gland to help veterinarians in clinical diagnosis and surgical approach.

Effect of Hypothyroidism on Submandibular Salivary Gland Histology in Rat: Role of Ashwagandha Root Extract Versus Thyroid Hormone

Effect of Hypothyroidism on Submandibular Salivary Gland Histology in Rat: Role of Ashwagandha Root Extract Versus Thyroid Hormone

A novel technique in reducing sebum production and improving atrophic acne scars.

Fractional microneedling radiofrequency (FMR) has gained popularity for the treatment of acne scars, owing to favorable outcomes and short downtimes. This study aimed to investigate FMR use in reducing facial sebum production and treating acne scars. This single-center, prospective, evaluator-blinded trial compared sebum production after three sessions of FMR (Fractora® 24-pin coated tip) performed one-month apart. Results were evaluated with a sebumeter (Cutometer®), sebaceous gland histology, and subjects' assessment. Acne scars were graded according to the Echelle d'Evaluation clinique des Cicatrices d'acné scale, Goodman and Baron's qualitative grading system, acne scar volume measurement, and subjects' assessments. Sebumeter results revealed a significantly decreased (p < 0.05) sebum production since the first treatment, sustained throughout the study period. Histological assessment showed decreased density and size of sebaceous glands. The mean acne scar volume decreased significantly, without a significant increase in the mean melanin levels. Fractora® 24-pin coated tip can be used as an alternative for patients with acne scars, who wish to concomitantly reduce their facial oiliness. A significant decrease in facial oiliness and acne scars' volume can be seen after a single treatment session, with up to 15.48% decrease in facial oil production.

Intraductal administration of transferrin receptor-targeted immunotoxin clears ductal carcinoma in situ in mouse models of breast cancer—a preclinical study

The human transferrin receptor (TFR) is overexpressed in most breast cancers, including preneoplastic ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). HB21(Fv)-PE40 is a single-chain immunotoxin (IT) engineered by fusing the variable region of a monoclonal antibody (HB21) against a TFR with a 40 kDa fragment of Pseudomonas exotoxin (PE). In humans, the administration of other TFR-targeted immunotoxins intrathecally led to inflammation and vascular leakage. We proposed that for treatment of DCIS, intraductal (i.duc) injection of HB21(Fv)-PE40 could avoid systemic toxicity while retaining its potent antitumor effects on visible and occult tumors in the entire ductal tree. Pharmacokinetic studies in mice showed that, in contrast to intravenous injection, IT was undetectable by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in blood following i.duc injection of up to 3.0 μg HB21(Fv)-PE40. We demonstrated the antitumor efficacy of HB21(Fv)-PE40 in two mammary-in-duct (MIND) models, MCF7 and SUM225, grown in NOD/SCID/gamma mice. Tumors were undetectable by In Vivo Imaging System (IVIS) imaging in intraductally treated mice within 1 wk of initiation of the regimen (IT once weekly/3 wk, 1.5 μg/teat). MCF7 tumor-bearing mice remained tumor free for up to 60 d of observation with i.duc IT, whereas the HB21 antibody alone or intraperitoneal IT treatment had minimal/no antitumor effects. These and similar findings in the SUM225 MIND model were substantiated by analysis of mammary gland whole mounts, histology, and immunohistochemistry for the proteins Ki67, CD31, CD71 (TFR), and Ku80. This study provides a strong preclinical foundation for conducting feasibility and safety trials in patients with stage 0 breast cancer.

Effect of lymphotoxin blockage on different stages of Sjogren's syndrome in an animal model

AbstractBackgroundLymphotoxin (LT) is an important mediator in Sjogren's syndrome (SS), both in patients and in animal models. Deletion of the LT alpha gene prevented the development of disease manifestations in the interelukin alpha transgenic mouse (IL14αTG) mouse model of SS.AimsThe current study was designed to evaluate the use of LT inhibitors at different stages of the disease in IL14αTG mice.Materials and MethodsIL14αTG mice were treated with anti‐LTa monoclonal antibody, LTb receptor‐immunoglobulin fusion protein (LTBR‐Ig) or isotype control during different stages of disease and analysis of salivary gland function, immunoglobulins, autoantibodies and histology of internal organs performed.Results and DiscussionThe inhibitors were very effective in maintaining salivary gland function and preventing infiltration of the glands with lymphocytes when used in the early stages of the disease. Blocking LT at later stages of the disease did not recover salivary gland function but was still effective in limiting extra glandular manifestations including eye disease and tumor development. Some differences were noted in the effectiveness of anti‐LTα versus LTBR‐Ig in limiting particular disease manifestations.ConclusionLT inhibitors deserve further investigation in the management of SS at whatever stage is identified.

Histology and ultrastructure of glands associated with the sting apparatus of the swarm-founding wasp Protopolybia exigua (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae)

Social insects present a great diversity of exocrine glands, which are linked to fundamental roles of social life, and their morphological characterization represents the first step toward the knowledge of their function. We here describe the exocrine glands present in the sting apparatus of queens and workers of the wasp Protopolybia exigua. Histological analysis of serial sections under light microscopy revealed a glandular epithelium in the spiracular plate, the quadrate plate, and the gonostyli, while the last two in addition also contain clusters of class-3 cells. A big cluster of class-3 cells was also found in the oblong plate of some workers and queens. These findings reveal that a variety of glands, in addition to the common venom gland and Dufour gland, are present in association with the sting apparatus, of which three glands are novel reports for the exocrine repertoire of social insects. The position of the glands suggests a role in lubrication to provide mobility of the sting and venom ejection and/or participation in alarm behavior, while a function related to reproduction is also possible. The peculiar characteristics displayed by swarm-founding wasps are linked with exocrine gland secretions, making their investigation in Epiponini wasps a vast and interesting field.

Anti-cancer activity of an ethanolic extract of red okra pods (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) in rats induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea

Background and Aim:Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy in women. The consumption of phytochemical components from plants may play an essential role in preventing and treating this cancer. This study aimed to investigate the anti-cancer activity of an ethanolic extract of red okra pods (EEROP) in rats (Rattus norvegicus) induced by N-methyl- N-nitrosourea (MNU).Materials and Methods:The experimental animals were divided into six groups (n=5/group), namely, KN (normal control, without any treatment), K− (negative control, exposed to MNU without EEROP), K+ (positive control, exposed to MNU and Methotrexate), and the treatment Groups P1, P2, and P3 (exposed to MNU and EEROP at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight [BW], respectively). Intraperitoneal delivery of MNU and EEROP oral administration was carried out for 8 weeks. After the end of treatment, the parameters of cytokines, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and mammary gland histology were measured.Results:The results showed that EEROP at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg BW significantly downregulated interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1ß, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-17, IL-10, and tumor growth factor-β (p<0.05). In addition, doses of 200 mg/kg BW significantly increased the activity of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, prevented the proliferation of mammary gland epithelial cells, and yielded a significantly thinner epithelium of the mammary gland (p<0.05).Conclusion:It can be concluded that EEROP was an effective anti-cancer agent by modulating the immune response. Further studies using a nanoparticle system are warranted to achieve optimal working conditions for these bioactive compounds.

P245 Identifying predictors of short-term response to rituximab in extra-glandular primary Sjogren’s Syndrome

Abstract Background/Aims Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of rituximab (RTX) in primary Sjogren’s syndrome (pSS) have failed to alleviate glandular symptoms and fatigue. The question remains as to whether B-cell depleting therapies have a place for the treatment of pSS. Post-hoc analyses from RCTs showed greater improvement in objective measures such as salivary flow rate, salivary gland ultrasound and histology scores in RTX-treated group vs placebo. Moreover, there are limited data on efficacy of the initial and repeat cycles of RTX on extra-glandular pSS. Here, our objectives were to assess the effectiveness of RTX on extra-glandular symptoms and identify predictors of short-term response with a view to personalised B-cell depleting therapy in pSS. Methods A retrospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted in 40 consecutive RTX-treated pSS patients in a single-centre for over 15 years. All patients fulfilled the 2002 AEG criteria and were CCP negative. Clinical response at 6 months was defined as ≥ 3 point reduction of ESSDAI from baseline. B-cell subsets were measured using highly sensitive flow cytometry. Predictors of short-term response were analysed using penalised logistic regression. Results 38/40 (95%) patients were female, mean (SD) age 54 (13.7) years, median (IQR) disease duration 5 (2-9) years, 39/40 (98%) had positive ANA and 28/40 (70%) were on concomitant immunosuppressant (IS). Mean (SD) ESSDAI at RTX initiation was 11.5 (6.7) and main domains for RTX were articular (73%), skin (23%), haematological (18%), PNS (15%) and lungs (10%). 169 RTX cycles were administered with a total follow-up of 165PY. In Cycle 1 (C1) RTX, the proportion of patient achieving ESSDAI response from baseline was 29/40 (73%; 95% CI 58-87). There were significant reductions in ESSDAI, daily prednisolone dose and IgG levels at 6 months (all p &amp;lt; 0.05). Of C1 responders, 23/29 received retreatment on clinical relapse; of which 8/23 (35%) lost response [secondary non-depletion non-response (2NDNR) associated with anti-RTX antibodies as we previously observed in SLE=4 (17%)]; side effects=1; ineffective=3. Of C1 non-responders, 9/11 were retreated but only 2/9 responded in C2. Overall, 13/40 (33%) discontinued RTX within two cycles. In multivariable analysis, concomitant immunosuppressant [OR 0.07 (95% CI 0.01-0.52); p = 0.010] and achieving compete B-cell depletion in C1 [0.04 (0.02-0.82); 0.036] reduced non-response to RTX. Conclusion All patients with pSS should be co-prescribed immunosuppressant with RTX and future therapeutics should aim to achieve complete depletion. About one in six pSS patients lose response in repeat cycles which is associated with 2NDNR phenomenon. The use of humanised or next-generation type 2 anti-CD20 antibodies should overcome these issues and improve the clinical response of extra-glandular pSS. Disclosure S. Pepple: None. J. Arnold: None. E. M Vital: Consultancies; Dr Vital has received consulting fees from Roche. Grants/research support; Dr Vital has received funding for research from Roche. A. C Rawstron: None. C. Pease: None. S. Dass: None. P. Emery: Consultancies; Prof Emery has received consulting fees from Roche. Grants/research support; Prof Emery has received funding for research from Roche. M. Md Yusof: None.

Open and endoscopic surgery improve survival for squamous and nonsquamous cell nasopharyngeal carcinomas: An NCDB cohort study.

Nasopharyngeal tumors (NPTs) are primarily treated with nonsurgical therapy. Recent studies have demonstrated endoscopic salvage surgery for NPT recurrences may improve survival relative to reirradiation. However, there are very limited data on open compared with endoscopic approaches for NPTs. We investigated whether endoscopic and open surgical approaches to the nasopharynx improve overall survival for all histologic subtypes of NPTs. We performed a retrospective cohort study using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). All adult patients with NPTs from 2004 to 2016 without distant metastasis who underwent treatment with curative intent were included. We extracted clinical and treatment variables to assess our primary outcome of overall survival. On univariate analysis, patients undergoing endoscopic surgery, but not open surgery, had significantly improved overall survival relative to those undergoing nonsurgical treatment. Post hoc analysis demonstrated significantly improved overall survival for surgery in patients with minor salivary gland histology, but not squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) histology or by T or N classification. A Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariate regression. After adjusting for covariates, both endoscopic and open approaches were associated with improved overall survival relative to nonsurgical treatment for all tumor types. A multivariate regression of SCC found that open surgery, but not endoscopic surgery, was significantly associated with improved overall survival. Both endoscopic and open surgical approaches are associated with improved overall survival of patients with NPT. These findings highlight important oncologic validity as endoscopic and robotic platforms to the nasopharynx become more widely adopted.

Cylindrical Glands and Egg Sac Silk of Giant Wood Spider, Nephila pilipes

Different types of silk glands are located inside the abdomen of spider. Three pairs of cylindrical glands are developed in female giant wood spider, Nephila pilipes. In the present study, attempt have been made to explain the anatomy and histology of cylindrical glands and details of its spinning field with the help of scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The microscale topology and surface nanostructure of egg sac silk threads was studied with advance techniques of atomic force microscopy (AFM).It is concluded that, in female spider, cylindrical glands and egg sac silk produced by them plays a very important role in successful perpetuation of species. Roughness analysis of egg sac silk suggested that this biomaterial has high toughness that may be suitable for dissipating high amounts of mechanical energy. This silk is having high and stable mechanical performance. Hence, successful large scale production of this beautiful and strong, naturally pink colored spider silk will definitely open a new gate in textile sector.

Variation and frequency of supernumerary teats, litter size, histological features and the fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) gene expression pattern in goats

Historically, female domestic goats carrying multiple kids are mostly unable to express sufficient nursing ability due to a limited number of functional teats. Therefore, the functional teat is an important component in prolific goat breeding, and plays a key role in the future health of their kids. With this motivation, we wanted to investigate the phenotypic features, litter size, histology of adult female mammary glands, and the gene expression profile of the fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) gene in goats. To illustrate this, the initial dataset of the current study consists of an electronic questionnaire that includes 697 individuals (548 does and 149 bucks) of five endemic and three exotic goats from 2015 to 2020 in different geographic areas of Iran, from 59 Markhoz (MARG), 50 Azari (AZAR), 73 Busheri (BUSH), 69 Sarbisheh (SARB), 165 Mahabadi (MOHA) indigenous goats and also exotic breeds, including 183 Saanen (SANN), 39 Alpine (ALPN), and 59 Boer (BORE) goats. The results of this study confirmed that MOHA goats (4.16%), BORE (4.43%) and SANN goat breeds (5.75%) have larger litter sizes. Interestingly, the evidence gathering when SNTs occurred showed that both the BUSH and BORE goat breeds had the highest frequency of SNTs. Moreover, under the same physiological and lactation conditions, there was no statistically significant difference in histological features between the three compared does class consist of the two teats, SNTs, and four functional teats. In addition, the results of the gene expression profile significantly highlight the FGF-2 gene pattern in two teat groups compared to other SNT groups (P < 0.01). In summary, this scenario can be used to generate further research and facts on responsible candidate genes, the variations in teat numbers in goats, examining both the incidence of SNT and litter size.