Histomorphological Analysis Research Articles

Hydrogel-chitosan and polylactic acid-polycaprolactone bioengineered scaffolds for reconstruction of mandibular defects: a preclinical in vivo study with assessment of translationally relevant aspects.

Background: Reconstruction of mandibular bone defects is a surgical challenge, and microvascular reconstruction is the current gold standard. The field of tissue bioengineering has been providing an increasing number of alternative strategies for bone reconstruction. Methods: In this preclinical study, the performance of two bioengineered scaffolds, a hydrogel made of polyethylene glycol-chitosan (HyCh) and a hybrid core-shell combination of poly (L-lactic acid)/poly ( -caprolactone) and HyCh (PLA-PCL-HyCh), seeded with different concentrations of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs), has been explored in non-critical size mandibular defects in a rabbit model. The bone regenerative properties of the bioengineered scaffolds were analyzed by in vivo radiological examinations and ex vivo radiological, histomorphological, and immunohistochemical analyses. Results: The relative density increase (RDI) was significantly more pronounced in defects where a scaffold was placed, particularly if seeded with hMSCs. The immunohistochemical profile showed significantly higher expression of both VEGF-A and osteopontin in defects reconstructed with scaffolds. Native microarchitectural characteristics were not demonstrated in any experimental group. Conclusion: Herein, we demonstrate that bone regeneration can be boosted by scaffold- and seeded scaffold-reconstruction, achieving, respectively, 50% and 70% restoration of presurgical bone density in 120days, compared to 40% restoration seen in spontaneous regeneration. Although optimization of the regenerative performance is needed, these results will help to establish a baseline reference for future experiments.

Spatiotemporal single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the role of steroid hormone pathway during chicken primordial follicle formation

The size of the initial primordial follicle pool in the ovary depends on primordial follicle formation, which determines the female reproductive lifespan. However, the molecular regulation of primordial follicle formation in chickens remains unclear. In this study, the left ovaries of chickens were collected at 2 d posthatch (dph), 5.5 dph, and 10.5 dph to examine the formation of primordial follicles. Single-cell mRNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomic analysis were performed to explore the ovarian microenvironment and identify regulatory pathways involved in the formation of primordial follicles in chickens. Histomorphological analysis of chicken ovary tissues revealed the presence of germ cell cysts at 1 dph, which began to disintegrate at 2 dph. Primordial follicles appeared at 5.5 dph and continued to develop into larger-diameter follicles. scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic analysis revealed 24 cellular clusters involved in chicken primordial follicle formation. The metabolic pathway of steroid hormone synthesis was found in pregranulosa and pretheca cells. Histological analysis showed that chicken ovaries did not form primordial follicles after the inhibition of the steroid hormone synthesis pathway by simvastatin or tamoxifen. In addition, mRNA transcriptomic and bioinformatics analyses revealed that GREB1 was a downstream gene of the steroid hormone synthesis pathway during the formation of chicken primordial follicles. This study provides a valuable foundation for investigating primordial follicle formation in avian species and optimizing their reproductive performance.

The dynamic progression of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis-like lesions elicited by mandibular shift in a rat model

BackgroundTemporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA) presents significant challenges due to its complex etiology, often insidious onset, high incidence, and progressive structural deterioration. While research has explored genetic and molecular factors, treatment outcomes remain suboptimal, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of disease progression. ObjectiveThis study employs a specific mandibular shift rat model to explore the dynamic progression of TMJ-OA-like lesions and evaluate the potential for self-repair at different stages, aiming to inform early diagnosis and preventative strategies. MethodsSeventy-two female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into three groups: a control group (n=24; average weight: 157.23±1.63 g) receiving sham surgery. an experimental group (n=24; average weight: 157.78±1.88 g) subjected to mandibular shift induction, and a removal group (n=24; average weight: 158.11±2.20 g) experiencing mandibular shift for one, two, or four weeks followed by a one-month recovery period (designated as 1w Removal, 2w Removal and 4w Removal, respectively). Histomorphological and molecular analyses were conducted at designated time points. ResultsRats in the 1-week removal group exhibited substantial recovery in condylar morphology, cartilage thickness, extracellular matrix composition, and expression of OA-related genes. Conversely, the 4-week removal group mirrored the experimental group, indicating limited self-repair capacity at later stages. The 2-week removal group presented with variable outcomes, with some animals showing signs of recovery and others resembling the experimental group, indicating a potential transitional phase in the disease process. ConclusionRecovery from early-stage TMJ-OA involves eliminating provoking factors such as occlusal interference or reducing joint loading. However, advanced stages exhibit diminished self-repair capabilities, necessitating additional therapeutic interventions. These findings emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in TMJ-OA management.

Exploration of the miR-187-3p/CNR2 pathway in modulating osteoblast differentiation and treating postmenopausal osteoporosis through mechanical stress.

This study aimed to explore how mechanical stress affects osteogenic differentiation via the miR-187-3p/CNR2 pathway. To conduct this study, 24 female C57BL/6 mice, aged 8 weeks, were used and divided into four groups. The Sham and OVX groups did not undergo treadmill exercise, while the Sham + EX and OVX + EX groups received a 8-week treadmill exercise. Post-training, bone marrow and fresh femur samples were collected for further analysis. Molecular biology analysis, histomorphology analysis, and micro-CT analysis were conducted on these samples. Moreover, primary osteoblasts were cultured under osteogenic conditions and divided into GM group and CTS group. The cells in the CTS group underwent a sinusoidal stretching regimen for either 3 or 7 days. The expression of early osteoblast markers (Runx2, OPN, and ALP) was measured to assess differentiation. The study findings revealed that mechanical stress has a regulatory impact on osteoblast differentiation. The expression of miR-187-3p was observed to decrease, facilitating osteogenic differentiation, while the expression of CNR2 increased significantly. These observations suggest that mechanical stress, miR-187-3p, and CNR2 play crucial roles in regulating osteogenic differentiation. Both invivo and invitro experiments have confirmed that mechanical stress downregulates miR-187-3p and upregulates CNR2, which leads to the restoration of distal femoral bone mass and enhancement of osteoblast differentiation. Therefore, mechanical stress promotes osteoblasts, resulting in improved osteoporosis through the miR-187-3p/CNR2 signaling pathway. These findings have broad prospect and provide molecular biology guidance for the basic research and clinical application of exercise in the prevention and treatment of PMOP.

Regulation mechanism of endochondral ossification in Rana zhenhaiensis during metamorphosis based on histomorphology and transcriptome analyses

Endochondral ossification plays a crucial role in the limb development of amphibians. This study explored the ossification sequence in the hindlimb of Rana zhenhaiensis tadpoles and the correlation between thyroid hormones (THs) and endochondral ossification via histomorphology and transcriptional analyses. Our results suggest that ossification of the femur and tibiofibula was initiated during the period of high THs activity (metamorphosis climax). In addition, the results of differentially expressed gene analyses in the hindlimb and tail showed that systemic factors, transcription factors, and locally secreted factors interacted with each other during the metamorphosis climax to regulate the occurrence of endochondral ossification. These results will enrich the morphological data of anurans and provide scientific reference for the evolutionary history of vertebrates.

Methylation Analysis of Colitis-Associated Colorectal Carcinomas.

Ulcerative colitis is a well-known inflammatory bowel disease. Patients have an increased risk of developing colitis associated carcinoma (CAC). It is important for patient management to be able to distinguish between ulcerative colitis associated carcinoma and sporadic carcinoma (sCRC). However, this distinction is frequently very challenging. It is not readily possible to differentiate this histologically. However, the diagnosis is crucial for the patient's further treatment and follow-up. An attempt was therefore made to develop a diagnostic regime that would enable a reliable distinction between sCRC and CAC. We screened 96 patients analyzing more than 850,000 methylation hotspots, to detect distinct epigenetic patterns between both types of carcinomas. Patients with sporadic carcinoma and colitis-associated carcinoma as well as patients with normal colon and patients with confirmed ulcerative colitis without neoplasia were used for the analysis. By extensively filtering the results, methylation sites relevant to distinguish between CAC and sCRC were identified. After the results were filtered, three methylation sites relevant to distinguish between CAC and sCRC were identified. For this purpose, methylation limit values were defined, which favor the samples as CAC or sCRC up to a certain methylation value of the methylation sites. The combination of three methylation sites allows a correct assignment to CAC or sCRC in 94.5% of the cases. The results show that these three methylation sites are promising markers in the diagnosis of CAC vs sCRC. Nevertheless, the diagnosis should always be made in conjunction with histomorphological analyses.

Multi-omics analysis of diabetic pig lungs reveals molecular derangements underlying pulmonary complications of diabetes mellitus.

Growing evidence shows that the lung is an organ prone to injury by diabetes mellitus. However, the molecular mechanisms of these pulmonary complications have not yet been characterized comprehensively. To systematically study the effects of insulin deficiency and hyperglycaemia on the lung, we combined proteomics and lipidomics with quantitative histomorphological analyses to compare lung tissue samples from a clinically relevant pig model for mutant INS gene-induced diabetes of youth (MIDY) with samples from wild-type littermate controls. Among others, the level of pulmonary surfactant-associated protein A (SFTPA1), a biomarker of lung injury, was moderately elevated. Furthermore, key proteins related to humoral immune response and extracellular matrix organization were significantly altered in abundance. Importantly, a lipoxygenase pathway was dysregulated as indicated by 2.5-fold reduction of polyunsaturated fatty acid lipoxygenase ALOX15 levels, associated with corresponding changes in the levels of lipids influenced by this enzyme. Our multi-omics study points to an involvement of reduced ALOX15 levels and an associated lack of eicosanoid switching as mechanisms contributing to a proinflammatory milieu in the lungs of subjects with diabetes mellitus.

A study on histomorphological analysis of gestational trophoblastic disease

Abstract Background: Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) represents a diverse group of conditions characterized by abnormal trophoblastic proliferation within the placenta. GTD includes benign and malignant lesions, ranging from complete and partial hydatidiform moles to more severe forms like invasive moles, choriocarcinoma, placental site trophoblastic tumors (PSTTs), and epithelioid trophoblastic tumors. Given that neoplastic GTD lesions respond remarkably well to chemotherapy, early and accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial as it directly influences treatment and prognosis. Aim and Objectives: This study examined the histomorphological features of various types of GTD alongside key clinical factors such as age, parity, and gestational period. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Pathology over the course of10 years, from January 2014 to January 2024. All cases of GTD confirmed through histopathological examination of hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides were included in the analysis. Results: Out of 60 diagnosed cases of GTD, 34 (56.66%) were complete hydatidiform moles, 22 (36.67%) were partial hydatidiform moles, 1 (1.67%) was an invasive mole, 1 (1.67%) was choriocarcinoma, and 2 (3.33%) were PSTTs. The age of the affected patients ranged from 18 to 45 years, with the highest incidence observed in the 20–25 year age group (30 cases, 50%). Most cases (33, 55%) occurred during the first trimester, with a predominance among primigravida patients (28 cases, 46.66%). The most common clinical presentation was per vaginal bleeding, reported in 56 cases (93.33%). Conclusion: Although GTD can lead to serious complications, including metastasis, it is treatable. In this study, the complete hydatidiform mole was the most frequently encountered lesion and is associated with a higher risk of severe complications such as persistent GTD, invasive moles, and choriocarcinoma. Thus, early and accurate histopathological diagnosis is vital for the timely initiation of therapy, ultimately reducing the mortality rate. This study highlights the various categories and histomorphological features of GTD, emphasizing the importance of understanding its clinical presentation to mitigate disease burden and complications.

A Review of Histological Techniques for Differentiating Human Bone from Animal Bone.

The first step in anthropological study is the positive identification of human remains, which can be a challenging undertaking when bones are broken. When bone pieces from different species are mixed together, it can be crucial to distinguish between them in forensic and archaeological contexts. For years, anthropology and archaeology have employed the histomorphological analysis of bones to evaluate species-specific variations. Based on variations in the dimensions and configuration of Haversian systems between the two groups, these techniques have been devised to distinguish between non-human and human bones. All of those techniques concentrate on a very particular kind of bone, zone, and segment. Histomorphometric techniques make the assumption that there are size, form, and quantity variations between non-humans and humans. The structural components of Haversian bones are significant enough to use discriminant function analysis to separate one from the other. This review proposes a comprehensive literature analysis of the various strategies or techniques available for distinguishing human from non-human bones to demonstrate that histomorphological analysis is the most effective method to be used in the case of inadequate or compromised samples.

Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells enriched PCL-gelatin nanofiber scaffold for improved wound healing

Electrospun nanofibers exhibit a significant potential in the synthesis of nanostructured materials, thereby offering a promising avenue for enhancing the efficacy of wound care. The present study aimed to investigate the wound-healing potential of two biomacromolecules, PCL-Gelatin nanofiber adhered with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Characterisation of the nanofiber revealed a mean fiber diameter ranging from 200 to 300 nm, with distinctive elemental peaks corresponding to polycaprolactone (PCL) and gelatin. Additionally, BMSCs derived from bone marrow were integrated into nanofibers, and their wound-regenerative potential was systematically evaluated through both in-vitro and in-vivo methodologies. In-vitro assessments substantiated that BMSC-incorporated nanofibers enhanced cell viability and crucial cellular processes such as adhesion, and proliferation. Subsequently, in-vivo studies were performed to demonstrate the wound-healing efficacy of nanofibers. It was observed that the rate of wound healing of BMSCs incorporated nanofibers surpassed both, nanofiber and BMSCs alone. Furthermore, histomorphological analysis revealed accelerated re-epithelization and improved wound contraction in BMSCs incorporated nanofiber group. The fabricated nanofiber incorporated with BMSCs exhibited superior wound regeneration in animal model and may be utilised as a wound healing patch.

Semaglutide May Ameliorate Fibrosis and Inhibit Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Intrauterine Adhesion Models.

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of Semaglutide on intrauterine adhesions and discover new drugs for such adhesions. In this study, the cell model was simulated by TGF-β1-induced human endometrial epithelial cells, and the animal model was established through mechanical curettage and inflammatory stimulation. After co-culturing with TGF-β1 with or without different concentrations of Semaglutide for 48 h, cells were collected for RT-qPCR and Western blotting analyses. Three doses were subcutaneously injected into experimental mice once a day for two weeks, while the control group received sterile ddH2O. The serum and uterine tissues of the mice were collected. HE and Masson staining were used for the uterine histomorphological and pathological analyses. RT-qPCR and Western blotting were used for mRNA and protein expression analyses. Serum indicators were detected using ELISA kits. The results showed that Semaglutide significantly reduced the mRNA levels of fibrosis indicators ACTA2, COL1A1, and FN and inflammatory indicators TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB in the two models. Semaglutide improved endometrium morphology, increased the number of endometrial glands, and reduced collagen deposition in IUA mice. The results also showed that Semaglutide could inhibit vimentin, E-Cadherin, and N-Cadherin in the two models. In summary, Semaglutide can ameliorate fibrosis and inflammation of intrauterine adhesions as well as inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition in IUA models.

Salivary duct carcinoma with squamous differentiation: histomorphological and immunophenotypical analysis of six cases.

Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is an aggressive salivary malignancy with multiple morphological subtypes. Primary salivary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) requires exclusion of high-grade salivary malignancies and metastatic disease and is considered exceptionally rare. We report six cases of SDC with resemblance to SCC on account of variable, but often extensive, squamous differentiation. A retrospective review (2009-2023) at two institutions of SDC with histological and immunophenotypical evidence of squamous differentiation identified six cases. Medical charts and available glass slides were reviewed. There were five males and one female with a median age of 63 years, with tumours involving the parotid (five of six) and submandibular (one of six) glands. All six tumours showed a conventional SDC component comprising < 5-90% of viable tumour. Squamous differentiation comprised 10-95%+ (> 75% in three of six cases) of total viable tumour, and demonstrated CK5/6, p63 and/or p40 immunoexpression in all cases. A sarcomatoid component, comprising 10-60% of viable tumour, was present in three of six (50%) cases. All tumours were androgen receptor (AR)-positive, but only two of six (33.3%) retained AR immunoreactivity in the squamous component. Metastatic SDC to regional lymph nodes exhibited exclusive squamous differentiation in two of six (33.3%) cases. Squamous differentiation, histologically and immunophenotypically, can be extensive in SDC. AR expression may be lost in the squamous component and metastases may demonstrate only squamous differentiation. These findings cast further doubt on the existence of primary salivary SCC. SDC should be considered whenever encountering a carcinoma with squamous differentiation in major salivary glands or within cervical lymph nodes in the setting of a salivary mass.

Cyclical heat stress during lactation influences the microstructure of the bovine mammary gland

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of heat stress on mammary epithelial cell (MEC) losses into milk, secretory mammary tissue structure, and mammary epithelial cell activity. Sixteen multiparous Holstein cows (632 ± 12 kg BW) approximately 100 d in milk housed in climate-controlled rooms were paired by body weight and randomly allocated to one of 2 treatments, heat stress (HS) or pair feeding thermoneutral (PFTN) using 2 cohorts. Each cohort was subjected to 2 periods of 4 d each. In period 1, both treatments had ad libitum access to a common total mixed ration and were exposed to a controlled daily temperature-humidity index (THI) of 64. In period 2, HS cows were exposed to controlled cyclical heat stress (THI: 74 to 80), while PFTN cows remained at 64 THI and daily dry matter intake was matched to HS. Cows were milked twice daily, and milk yield was recorded at each milking. Individual milk samples on the last day of each period were used to quantify MEC losses by flow cytometry using butyrophilin as a cell surface marker. On the final day of period 2, individual bovine mammary tissue samples were obtained for histomorphology analysis, assessment of protein abundance, and evaluation of gene expression of targets associated with cellular capacity for milk and milk component synthesis, heat response, cellular proliferation, and autophagy. Statistical analysis was performed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. Milk yield was reduced by 4.3 kg by HS (n = 7) compared with PFTN (n = 8). Independent of treatment, MEC in milk averaged 174 cells/mL (2.9% of total cells). There was no difference between HS vs. PFTN cows for MEC shed or concentration in milk. Alveolar area was reduced 25% by HS, and HS had 4.1 more alveoli than PFTN. Total number of nucleated MEC per area were greater in HS (389 ± 1.05) compared with PFTN (321 ± 1.05); however, cell number per alveolus was similar between groups (25 ± 1.5 vs. 26 ± 1.4). There were no differences in relative fold expression for GLUT1, GLUT8, CSN2, CSN3, LALBA, FASN, HSPA5, and HSPA8 in HS compared with PFTN. Immunoblotting analyses showed a decrease abundance for phosphorylated STAT5 and S6K1, and an increase in LC3 II in HS compared with PFTN. These results suggest that even if milk yield differences and histological changes occur in the bovine mammary gland after 4 d of heat exposure, MEC loss into milk, nucleated MEC number per alveolus, and gene expression of nutrient transport, milk component synthesis, and heat stress related targets are unaffected. In contrast, the abundance of proteins related to protein synthesis and cell survival decreased significantly, while an upregulation of proteins associated with autophagy in HS compared with PFTN.

Influence on the temporomandibular joint induced by mandibular malpositioning caused by vertical dimension elevation and occlusal loss in adult rats: An imaging, histological and immunohistochemical study.

Mandibular malpositioning may result in an abnormal concentration of stresses within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in adult rats, which may further lead to a series of pathological changes, such as articular cartilage wear, subchondral bone sclerosis and osteophyte formation. However, the pathological and adaptive changes in condylar cartilage caused by different stress distributions are still controversial. The aim of this study was to observe the effect of sagittal changes in mandibular position on condylar cartilage by changing the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) in adult rats. Fifteen-week-old female rats were divided into three groups: control (CON), increased OVD (iOVD) and loss of occlusion (LO) groups. An occlusal plate and tooth extraction were used to establish the animal model. TMJ samples of the experimental and CON groups were observed and investigated by bone morphological, histomorphological and immunohistochemical staining analyses at 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 8 weeks. Weight curves were plotted. Micro-computed tomography showed that, compared with the CON group, cartilage destruction followed by repair occurred in both experimental groups, which was similar to the trend observed in haematoxylin-eosin staining. All experimental results for the iOVD group showed an approximately similar time trend. Compared with the iOVD group, the toluidine blue and immunohistochemical staining results in the LO group showed no obvious change trend over time. Compared with occlusal loss, an increase in OVD caused faster and more severe damage to condylar cartilage, and subchondral bone repair occurred later.

VERY MOBILE LEFT VENTRICULAR PAPILLARY FIBROELASTOMA PRESENTING WITH ISCHEMIC STROKE

Abstract Papillary fibroelastomas are small and pedunculated left side valves associated mass, that frequently causing cerebral embolization; they are composed of collagen and elastic fibers and are usually connected with a pedicle to the endocardial layer. Differential diagnosis with endocarditis can rely on the side of attachement: Papillary fibroelastomas are more frequently found downstream the valves, instead, endocarditis are mostly found upstream the valves. They are mostly located (&amp;gt;80%) on valvular surfaces, more commonly on left side cardiac valves (44% on the aortic valve and 35% on the mitral valve); therefore, in the present knowledge, papillary fibroelastomas arising from left ventricular myiocardial wall are rare and mostly anecdotally descripted. We present the case of a 78–year–old man, diabetic, with no cardiac history, hospitalized with a right capsulo–lenticular stroke. Symptomatic due to left hemiparesis, he did not undergo thrombolysis due to a delay in hospitalization of almost 24 hours. The transthoracic and then transesophageal echocardiogram showed the presence of a hyperechogenic, floating mass of approximately 3 cm at the level of the left ventricle, separate from the mitral valve and attached to the mid–distal anterior septum and the ventricular apex (Figure 1). Cardiac MRI confirmed the presence of a peduncolate left ventricular mass, isointense on cine sequences, without myocardial infiltration, isointense on T1–weighted images and mildy hyperintense on T2–weighted images, with mild uniform late–gadolinium enhancement (Figure 2). The patient underwent surgical removal of the mass: histological analysis showed multiple, branching fronds of paucicellular, avascular fibroelastic tissue lined by a single layer of endocardium, with positive stains at Weigert coloration for elastic fibers (Figure 3). Histomorphological analysis was compatible with papillary fibroelastoma. This is a very atypical case of papillary fibroelastoma, due to the large size of the mass and the intraventricular and not–valvular location, which determined its emboligenicity and which, if not removed, would have exposed the patient to an enormous risk of recurrence of stroke.

Curcumin mitigates stress induced depression and hippocampal damage through upregulation of BDNF expression and adult neurogenesis.

Chronic stress, recognized as a major precipitant of depression, has been linked to various neural alterations, including cell death, neuronal atrophy, and compromised hippocampal neurogenesis and plasticity. This study aim to scrutinize curcumin's influence on glucocorticoid hormone secretion and its subsequent effects on the structural integrity and neurogenesis of the hippocampal neurons. A total of 30 adult albino Wistar rats, each weighing between 200-250 g, were utilized for the study. The rats, excluding those in the control group, underwent a 42-day regimen of modified Chronic Unpredictable Stress (CUS) to induce depressive-like states. After inducing CUS, these rats were categorized into six groups, each receiving different oral treatments for two weeks. The treatments included 30 mg/kg body weight of curcumin, 20 mg/kg body weight of fluoxetine, or a combination of both, along with a control group that received distilled water and an olive oil treated group. The rats were tested for behavioural despair using the forced swim test and their blood samples were obtained for serum corticosterone test. Afterwards, the rats were anesthetized, transcardially perfused and the hippocampus dissected and prepared for histopathological study. The study's multi-faceted approach encompassed behavioral, biochemical, and histological evaluations. Behavioral despair, gauged through the forced swimming test, displayed a marked reduction in the curcumin-treated rats compared to controls (p&lt;0.05). Additionally, curcumin significantly lowered serum corticosterone levels, aligning them closely with the control levels. Histomorphological analysis of the hippocampus showed that the curcumin- treated rats exhibited substantially less neurodegeneration, as evidenced by fewer cytoplasmic vacuolations and more intact neuronal structures. Increased cell proliferation and BDNF level were also observed in curcumin treated rats. This study has illuminated a multifaceted approach through which curcumin mitigates hippocampal neurodegeneration, thus showing possible therapeutic potential of curcumin in ameliorating depressive symptoms.

Multiscale and multimodal imaging for three-dimensional vascular and histomorphological organ structure analysis of the pancreas

Exocrine and endocrine pancreas are interconnected anatomically and functionally, with vasculature facilitating bidirectional communication. Our understanding of this network remains limited, largely due to two-dimensional histology and missing combination with three-dimensional imaging. In this study, a multiscale 3D-imaging process was used to analyze a porcine pancreas. Clinical computed tomography, digital volume tomography, micro-computed tomography and Synchrotron-based propagation-based imaging were applied consecutively. Fields of view correlated inversely with attainable resolution from a whole organism level down to capillary structures with a voxel edge length of 2.0 µm. Segmented vascular networks from 3D-imaging data were correlated with tissue sections stained by immunohistochemistry and revealed highly vascularized regions to be intra-islet capillaries of islets of Langerhans. Generated 3D-datasets allowed for three-dimensional qualitative and quantitative organ and vessel structure analysis. Beyond this study, the method shows potential for application across a wide range of patho-morphology analyses and might possibly provide microstructural blueprints for biotissue engineering.

Comparison of different bone substitutes in the repair of rat calvaria critical size defects: questioning the need for alveolar ridge presentation.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of biomaterials in bone healing of critical bone defects created by piezoelectric surgery in rat calvaria. Histomorphologic analysis was performed to assess bone regeneration and tissue response. Fifty animals were randomized into five groups with one of the following treatments: Control group (n = 10), spontaneous blood clot formation with no bone fill; BO group (Bio-Oss, Geistlich Pharma; n = 10), defects were filled with bovine medullary bone substitute; BF group (Bonefill, Bionnovation; n = 10), defects were filled with bovine cortical bone substitute; hydroxyapatite group (n = 10), defects were filled with hydroxyapatite; calcium sulfate group (n = 10), defects were filled with calcium sulfate. Five animals from each group were euthanized at 30 and 45 days. The histomorphometry calculated the percentage of the new bone formation in the bone defect. All data obtained were evaluated statistically considering P < .05 as statistically significant. The results demonstrated the potential of all biomaterials for enhancing bone regeneration. The findings showed no statistical differences between all the biomaterials at 30 and 45 days including the control group without bone grafting. In conclusion, the tested biomaterials presented an estimated capacity of osteoconduction, statistically nonsignificant between them. In addition, the selection of biomaterial should consider the specific clinical aspect, resorption rates, size of the particle, and desired bone healing responses. It is important to emphasize that in some cases, using no bone filler might provide comparable results with reduced cost and possible complications questioning the very frequent use of ridge presentation procedures.

Blood flow restriction training does not negatively alter the mechanical strength or histomorphology of uninjured equine superficial digital flexor tendons.

Low load exercise training with blood flow restriction (BFR) has become increasingly used by human physical therapists to prescribe controlled exercise following orthopaedic injury; its effects on the equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT), however, are unknown. To investigate outcomes of pressure specific BFR walking exercise on uninjured equine SDFT biomechanics and histomorphology. Controlled in vivo experiment. Four forelimbs of four horses were exposed to 40 BFR-walk sessions (10-min interval walking) on a treadmill over a 56-day study period with their contralateral forelimbs serving as untreated controls. Similarly, four forelimbs of four control horses were exposed to 40 sham cuff walk sessions. On study Day 56, all horses (n = 8) were humanely euthanised and forelimb SDFTs underwent non-destructive biomechanical testing and corresponding histomorphological analysis. Significance in biomechanical parameters between treatment groups was analysed using a mixed-effects ANOVA with Tukey's post-hoc tests. Statistically significant differences in SDFT stiffness for both first (p = 0.02) and last cycles (p = 0.03) were appreciated within the BFR treated group only, with BFR exposed forelimbs being significantly stiffer than the contralateral unexposed forelimbs. When normalised to cross-sectional area, no significant differences were appreciated among treatment groups in elastic modulus for the first (p = 0.5) or last cycles (p = 0.4). No histological differences were appreciated among treatment groups according to Bonar, Movin, or musculotendinous junction evaluation criteria. Short-term comparisons were performed in a small sample population without correlation to performance outcome measures. Optimal occlusion percentages and walk protocols remain unknown. This study demonstrated no negative impact of BFR on mechanical strength of the equine SDFT; however, evidence suggests that BFR results in increased tendon stiffness based on biomechanical testing and subsequent calculations. No consistent detrimental histomorphological changes were seen.

In Vivo, In Vitro and In Silico Anticancer Activity of Ilama Leaves: An Edible and Medicinal Plant in Mexico.

Ilama leaves are an important source of secondary metabolites with promising anticancer properties. Cancer is a disease that affects a great number of people worldwide. This work aimed to investigate the in vivo, in vitro and in silico anticancer properties of three acyclic terpenoids (geranylgeraniol, phytol and farnesyl acetate) isolated from petroleum ether extract of ilama leaves. Their cytotoxic activity against U-937 cells was assessed using flow cytometry to determine the type of cell death and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Also, a morphological analysis of the lymph nodes and a molecular docking study using three proteins related with cancer as targets, namely, Bcl-2, Mcl-1 and VEGFR-2, were performed. The flow cytometry and histomorphological analysis revealed that geranylgeraniol, phytol and farnesyl acetate induced the death of U-937 cells by late apoptosis and necrosis. Geranylgeraniol and phytol induced a significant increase in ROS production. The molecular docking studies showed that geranylgeraniol had more affinity for Bcl-2 and VEGFR-2. In the case of farnesyl acetate, it showed the best affinity for Mcl-1. This study provides information that supports the anticancer potential of geranylgeraniol, phytol and farnesyl acetate as compounds for the treatment of cancer, particularly with the potential to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.