Layer Of Squamous Cells Research Articles

Comparative Morphological and Histochemical Study of Esophagus, in Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptoplia decaocto) and Buzzard (Beuteo beuteo vulpinus)

The study carried out on 28 esophagus specimens of healthy, 14 Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptoplia decaocto) and 14 Buzzard (Beuteo beuteo vulpinus). The aimed, to study the esophagus's morphological also histological. The lumen of esophagus in dove appear narrower and shorter in length than Buzzard as well as the crop as well-developed sac , while the crop in buzzard as longitudinal narrow spindle dilation ,and the present research work was done on the histology and histochemistry of the esophagus in dove and buzzard and found that the esophagus was composed of three segment cervical, crop and thoracic ,histologically, the mucosa of cervical, thoracic part was lined by non-keratinized layer of stratified squamous cells. As well as The esophageal glands were absent in cervical part and crop in dove, whereas in the thoracic part these glands were present and their duct open toward the lumen of the esophagus. The mucosal folds well developed in the cervical portion. Histochemically, the epithelium gland of esophagus showed PAS positive reaction that indicated presence of neutral mucopolysaccharides, the esophageal glands showed strong moderate reaction by (PAS)in cervical and thoracic esophagus as well as in thoracic part in dove. Conclusion the results showed that esophagus was significantly different Morphological and histological between two birds.

Efficacy of in-office lysis of clitoral adhesions with excision of keratin pearls on clitoral pain and sexual function: a pre-post interventional study.

Keratin pearls are foci of central keratinization within concentric layers of squamous cells that can form under the clitoral prepuce and cause pain (clitorodynia); in-office removal of keratin pearls may reduce clitoral pain and improve sexual function. This study aims to investigate clitoral pain and sexual function in women with partial clitoral phimosis and keratin pearls before and after in-office lysis of clitoral adhesions with keratin pearl excision (LCA-KPE). A pre-post interventional study evaluated patients who underwent LCA-KPE between January 2017 and February 2023 in 2 metropolitan gynecology clinics specializing in vulvar pain. Patients presenting with keratin pearls and partial clitoral phimosis identified through retrospective chart review were asked to complete postprocedure questionnaires and provide subjective responses on clitoral discomfort, sexual function, sexual distress, and their experience with in-office LCA-KPE. Bivariate analyses with paired t tests were conducted to determine the effect of LCA-KPE. Qualitative data were analyzed with thematic coding. An 11-point pain visual analog scale was utilized to determine pre- and postprocedure clitoral discomfort and difficulty with orgasm. Female sexual dysfunction was measured with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised. A total of 32 of 74 patients who met inclusion criteria completed postprocedure surveys (43% response rate). Mean clitoral pain for respondents was 6.91 at baseline and 2.50 after LCA-KPE (P < .001). Mean difficulty with orgasm was significantly decreased from 5.45 at baseline to 3.13 after LCA-KPE (P < .001). Participants had a mean FSFI total score of 17.68 after treatment compared with a mean total baseline FSFI of 12.12 (P = .017). The mean FSFI score for pain was 2.43 at follow-up compared with 1.37 at baseline (P = .049). There was no significant difference in the mean Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised score before vs after the procedure (P = .27). Qualitative themes described the procedure as painful but worthwhile, with 77% of participants reporting the overall experience as positive. Recurrence rate overall was 28%, with a median of 2 repeat procedures. Recognizing keratin pearls as a structural cause of clitoral pain and offering in-office treatment is an important tool in addressing clitorodynia and improving sexual function. This is the largest study to date documenting the occurrence, identifying associated pain conditions, and evaluating procedural outcomes for clitoral keratin pearls. This study was limited by a relatively small sample size. In-office LCA-KPE significantly reduced clitoral discomfort and difficulty with orgasm.

Development and Optimization of Novel Emulgel Loaded with Andrographolide-Rich Extract and Sesame Oil Using Quality by Design Approach: In Silico and In Vitro Cytotoxic Evaluation against A431 Cells.

An epidermoid carcinoma is a form of non-melanoma skin cancer that originates from the outer layer of the skin's squamous cells. Previous studies have shown that andrographis extract and andrographolide inhibit the growth and proliferation of epidermoid carcinoma cells while also inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. The objective of this study was to improve the anticancer efficacy of the andrographolide-rich extract by delivering it in the form of nanoemulgel. During the formulation of emulgels, sonication, and homogenization were employed, and a 22-factorial design was used to optimize the formulations through the quality by design (QbD) approach. The optimized formulation (AEE8) was subjected to preliminary evaluations along with particle size, drug release, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies. The potential of the optimized emulgel against A431 cell lines was also investigated using MTT assay followed by flow cytometric analysis. The SEM results reveal that the optimized emulgel had a well-defined spherical shape, with a droplet size of 226 ± 1.8 nm, a negative surface charge of -30.1 ± 1.6 mV, and a PDI of 0.157. The cellular data indicate that AEE8 reduced the viability of the A431 cells with an IC50 of 16.56 μg/mL, as determined by MTT assay when compared to cells treated with the extract alone. Furthermore, the flow cytometric analysis of the optimized emulgel formulation demonstrated a marked G2/M phase arrest. This finding further supports the effectiveness of the gel in disrupting the cell cycle at the critical G2 and M phases, which are pivotal for cell division and proliferation. This disruption in cell cycle progression can impede the growth and spread of cancer cells, making the gel a promising candidate for anti-skin-cancer therapy. The safety of emulgels (AEE8) was validated through rigorous biocompatibility testing conducted on HDF (human dermal fibroblast) cell lines, ensuring their suitability for use. Considering the potential of the nanoemulgel, particularly AEE8, as demonstrated by its favorable properties and its ability to disrupt the cell cycle, it holds great promise as an innovative approach to treating skin cancer.

(135) Keratin Pearl Excision for Clitorodynia and Female Sexual Dysfunction

Abstract Introduction Clitoral adhesions occur when the clitoral prepuce adheres to the glans clitoris. This can cause accumulation of desquamated epithelial cells under the prepuce, resulting in the formation of smegmatic pseudocysts and keratin pearls. A keratin pearl is a focus of central keratinization within concentric layers of squamous cells. Presence of these firm, millimeter-sized masses can lead to clitoral irritation and hypersensitivity (similar to a grain of sand in the eye). Although keratin pearls have been described in the literature, there is little known about their clinical presentation or association with female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Objective Investigate the effectiveness of keratin pearl excision as a treatment for clitoral pain and female sexual dysfunction. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted in two metropolitan gynecology clinics specializing in vulvar pain between January 2017 and December 2021. Patients presenting with clitoral pain (clitorodynia) were identified in the electronic medical record through a search of physician-entered diagnoses and confirmed via review of the clinical notes. Adult patients with documented clitoral pain as well as clitoral adhesions (clitoral phimosis) and keratin pearls noted on exam were included in the study. Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) was measured with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R). Prospective data was collected via an electronic follow-up survey. Data were presented in means and percentages. Results Fifty-eight patients met inclusion criteria. Average age at presentation was 35 years (range 19-73 years). Self-reported ethnicity of the study population was 81% White, 7% Hispanic, 5% Asian, 2% Black, with no response from 5% of participants. Preliminary results show that patients reported a 66% decrease in mean clitoral discomfort (p &amp;lt; 0.0001) and a 52% reduction in mean difficulty with orgasm (p = 0.019) after excision of keratin pearls. Patients who completed the follow-up questionnaire (n = 18) had a mean FSFI total score of 18.3 compared to mean total baseline FSFI of 13.11 (p = 0.03). The mean FSFI score for pain was 2.85 at follow up compared to 1.52 at baseline (p = 0.01). The mean FSFI score for orgasm was 3.36 at follow up compared to 2.16 at baseline (p = 0.03). Although not statistically significant, most likely because of a small sample size, the mean FSFI score was higher at follow-up than at baseline for lubrication (45%), arousal (42%), satisfaction (19%), and desire (17%). Patients had no change in mean FSD-R score from baseline to follow up. Conclusions Clitorodynia associated with clitoral adhesions and keratin pearls occurs in women of all ages. Excising keratin pearls may reduce female sexual dysfunction. These preliminary results suggest that excising keratin pearls may improve clitoral discomfort and reduce difficulty with orgasm. Excising keratin pearls may also lead to an improvement in overall female sexual function. Disclosure No

Characterizing Epithelial Wound Healing In Vivo Using the Cnidarian Model Organism Clytia hemisphaerica.

All animal organs, from the skin to eyes to intestines, are covered with sheets of epithelial cells that allow them to maintain homeostasis while protecting them from infection. Therefore, it is not surprising that the ability to repair epithelial wounds is critical to all metazoans. Epithelial wound healing in vertebrates involves overlapping processes, including inflammatory responses, vascularization, and re-epithelialization. Regulation of these processes involves complex interactions between epithelial cells, neighboring cells, and the extracellular matrix (ECM); the ECM contains structural proteins, regulatory proteins, and active small molecules. This complexity, together with the fact that most animals have opaque tissues and inaccessible ECMs, makes wound healing difficult to study in live animals. Much work on epithelial wound healing is therefore performed in tissue culture systems, with a single epithelial cell-type plated as a monolayer on an artificial matrix. Clytia hemisphaerica (Clytia) provides a unique and exciting complement to these studies, allowing epithelial wound healing to be studied in an intact animal with an authentic ECM. The ectodermal epithelium of Clytia is a single layer of large squamous epithelial cells, allowing high-resolution imaging using differential interfering contrast (DIC) microscopy in living animals. The absence of migratory fibroblasts, vasculature, or inflammatory responses makes it possible to dissect the critical events in re-epithelialization in vivo. The healing of various types of wounds can be analyzed, including single-cell microwounds, small and large epithelial wounds, and wounds that damage the basement membrane. Lamellipodia formation, purse string contraction, cell stretching, and collective cell migration can all be observed in this system. Furthermore, pharmacological agents can be introduced via the ECM to modify cell:ECM interactions and cellular processes in vivo. This work shows methods for creating wounds in live Clytia, capturing movies of healing, and probing healing mechanisms by microinjecting reagents into the ECM.

Refractory esophageal stricture of esophageal mucous membrane pemphigoid after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Haploidentical allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from her brother was performed on a 41-year-old lady with no prior history of pemphigoid to treat recurrent AML. On day 59 following transplantation, she experienced esophageal stenosis. During immunosuppressive therapy for graft vs. host disease, this condition was controlled with periodic esophageal dilatation (GVHD). Her esophageal stricture, which required periodic dilatation, grew worse after she stopped immunosuppressive therapy because of recurrent AML. The esophageal mucosa was easily hemorrhagic and desquamative. Histologic analysis revealed that the squamous cell layers had been divided. Indirect immunofluorescence was negative for IgG and positive for IgA on the epidermal layers, while direct immunofluorescence showed a linear deposition of IgG on the basement membrane zone. It was determined through immunoblotting utilizing recombinant protein of BP180 C-terminal domain that both IgG and IgA antibodies were present, supporting the diagnosis of mucous membrane pemphigoid with anti-BP180. After allogeneic transplantation, basal epidermal cell destruction by GVHD may result in autoimmune blistering disorders, which expose basement membrane proteins and antigen presentation. A similar mechanism could apply to our situation. For rare GVHD cases, a thorough histological diagnosis is required.

A Comparison of Proliferative Capacity of Reticular and Erosive Variants of Oral Lichen Planus by Argyrophilic Nucleolar Organizer Regions Method.

Oral lichen planus (OLP), an immune mediated disorder, has been recognized since 1869 and is presented as any one of the six variants. Reticular and erosive are the most frequently encountered. Its proliferative capacity can give some information regarding its progression. We adopted the argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs) method because of its simplicity to use and dependable results. We evaluated AgNORs in basal, suprabasal, and squamous cell layers. We also compared these three layers within two variants, reticular, and erosive. Thirty clinically diagnosed patients of OLP were included in the study. Reticular and erosive variants were included in our study. This was followed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and later by the AgNOR method. The mean number of AgNORs per nucleus was calculated. Thirteen males and 17 females were the gender distribution. Twenty-three (76.67%) had reticular pattern and seven (23.33%) had erosive pattern. The basal cell layer had the highest mean AgNOR compared to suprabasal and squamous layers. Even among, erosive and reticular variants, the former had higher mean AgNOR counts. Our results suggest that the inflammatory infiltrate close to the epithelial cells can alter the proliferation index for the pattern of protein synthesis of these cells. Moreover, the high proliferative index in OLP can be related to a specific immunologic response. We conclude that AgNOR can be used as a proliferative marker in earlier lesions to detect the severity.

Cystic hygroma in a female suckling pig: a case report

BackgroundCystic hygromas (lymphangiomas) are rarely reported in various animal species, humans included. A hygroma is a benign congenital malformation of the lymphatic drainage system, presenting itself as a mass consisting of multiple cysts of various sizes with a watery content.Case presentationThis report describes clinical, ultrasonographic, and post-mortem findings of a cystic hygroma in a suckling pig. The mass was characterized by a few thin-walled cysts, containing clear yellow serous fluid. Histologically, the central cavity was lined by a single layer of squamous cells, supported by a thick fibrous stroma. On immunohistochemistry, scattered lining cells were weakly positive for Factor-VIII, suggesting their possible endothelial origin.ConclusionsThis case report contributes to raising awareness on this condition in pigs allowing early identification in life so that appropriate care can be provided. The case report attributes to science on hygromas in general, as better understanding of pathologic features, the aetiology and appropriate treatment are needed.

Clinical Presentation of Clitorodynia associated with Clitoral Adhesions and Keratin Pearls

ABSTRACT Introduction Clitoral adhesions occur when the clitoral prepuce adheres to the glans clitoris. This can lead to accumulation of desquamated epithelial cells under the prepuce, resulting in the formation of smegmatic pseudocysts and keratin pearls. A keratin pearl is a focus of central keratinization within concentric layers of squamous cells. Presence of these firm, millimeter-sized masses can lead to clitoral pain (similar to a grain of sand in the eye). Although keratin pearls have been described in the literature, there is little known about their clinical presentation or association with female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Objective Explore the clinical presentation of clitoral pain associated with clitoral adhesions and keratin pearls related to concomitant genitopelvic pain conditions and sexual dysfunction. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted in two metropolitan gynecology clinics specializing in vulvar pain between January 2018 and September 2021. Patients presenting with clitoral pain (clitorodynia) were identified in the electronic medical record through a search of physician-entered diagnoses and confirmed by review of the clinical notes. Adult patients with documented clitoral pain as well as clitoral adhesions (clitoral phimosis) and keratin pearls noted on exam were included in the study. FSD was measured with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R). Data was presented in means and percentages. Results Forty-one patients met inclusion criteria. Average age at presentation was 35 years (range 19-73 years). Self-reported ethnicity of the study population was 73% White, 5% Hispanic, 5% Asian, 2% Black, with no response from 15% of participants. Vulvar lichen sclerosus was noted in 17% (7/41) of patients, with an average age of 46 years (range 24-73 years). Seventy-six percent (31/41) of patients also had the diagnosis of overactive (hypertonic) pelvic floor muscle dysfunction (PFD), 25% (8/31) had pudendal neuralgia and 10% (3/31) had interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. Forty-six percent (19/41) of patients had provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) associated with a hormonal factor (hormonal contraceptive use, postpartum/breastfeeding, perimenopause, or menopause). Recurrent vulvar candidiasis or tinea cruris was noted in 5% of patients. Four patients (10%) presented with clitoral pain alone and were not found to have other identified genitopelvic pain conditions. Baseline FSFI and FSDS-R data were available in 35 patients. Mean FSFI score was 13.25, with 91% of patients meeting criteria for FSD (total FSFI score &amp;lt; 26.55). Mean scores for FSFI domains were: desire (2.4), arousal (2.1), lubrication (2.5), orgasm (2.0), satisfaction (2.5), and pain (1.6). Mean FSDS-R score was 29.42, with 89% of patients meeting criteria for FSD (FSDS-R score ³11). Conclusions Clitoral pain associated with clitoral adhesions and keratin pearls occurs in women of all ages. Clitoral adhesions are not confined to patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus. A vast majority of patients with clitoral adhesions and keratin pearls have additional chronic vulvar pain conditions, most commonly overactive PFD, pudendal neuralgia, or hormonally-associated PVD. Clitoral pain with clitoral adhesions and keratin pearls is associated with FSD and sexual distress. Clitorodynia and clitoral phimosis should be identified in the clinical evaluation of genitopelvic pain. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Consultant for Good Clean Love and Mahana Therapeutics; part-time employee of Dare Bioscience. Received research funding from Dare Science, SST, Endoceutics, The Cellular Medicine Association, and Ipsen for other projects. He is a consultant for Ipsen, SST, and AMAG

Single-cell transcriptomics of staged oocytes and somatic cells reveal novel regulators of follicle activation.

In briefProper development of ovarian follicles, comprised of an oocyte and surrounding somatic cells, is essential to support female fertility and endocrine health. Here, we describe a method to isolate single oocytes and somatic cells from the earliest stage follicles, called primordial follicles, and we characterize signals that drive their activation.Primordial follicles are the first class of follicles formed in the mammalian ovary and are comprised of an oocyte surrounded by a layer of squamous pre-granulosa cells. This developmental class remains in a non-growing state until individual follicles activate to initiate folliculogenesis. What regulates the timing of follicle activation and the upstream signals that govern these processes are major unanswered questions in ovarian biology. This is partly due to the paucity of data on staged follicle cells since isolating and manipulating individual oocytes and somatic cells from early follicle stages are challenging. To date, most studies on isolated primordial follicles have been conducted on cells collected from animal-age- or oocyte size-specific samples, which encompass multiple follicular stages. Here, we report a method for collecting primordial follicles and their associated oocytes and somatic cells from neonatal murine ovaries using liberase, DNase I, and Accutase. This methodology allows for the identification and collection of follicles immediately post-activation enabling unprecedented interrogation of the primordial-to-primary follicle transition. Molecular profiling by single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that processes including organelle disassembly and cadherin binding were enriched in oocytes and somatic cells as they transitioned from primordial to the primary follicle stage. Furthermore, targets including WNT4, TGFB1, FOXO3, and a network of transcription factors were identified in the transitioning oocytes and somatic cells as potential upstream regulators that collectively may drive follicle activation. Taken together, we have developed a more precise characterization and selection method for studying staged-follicle cells, revealing several novel regulators of early folliculogenesis.

Nonneoplastic Cervical Cytology.

Diagnostic cytology of cervix can be made strong if normal cytology is known thoroughly. Cervical lining comprises three layers of squamous cells, the basal, intermediate, and superficial cells. Knowing the dimensions of these cells, especially the intermediate cells, helps to diagnose the squamous intraepithelial lesions accurately. Furthermore, recognizing the parabasal cells in the menopausal smears, either singly or as syncytial aggregates, is important to avoid overdiagnosis of squamous intraepithelial lesions. The other cell type in the cervical lining is the endocervical glandular epithelium. Exfoliated endocervical cells may at times resemble endometrial glandular cells. The morphology and differences between these two cell types have been highlighted. It is essential to recognize and report endometrial cells in women of 40 years and above according to the recent Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical Cytology. The squamous epithelium of cervix and vagina is highly sensitive to estrogen and progesterone hormones. Hence, the Pap smears, if desired, can help in evaluating the hormonal status of the woman. The ratio of parabasal, intermediate, and superficial squamous cells can help in calculating various maturation indices.

Endothelial Mechanosensors for Atheroprone and Atheroprotective Shear Stress Signals.

Vascular endothelial cells (ECs), derived from the mesoderm, form a single layer of squamous cells that covers the inner surface of blood vessels. In addition to being regulated by chemical signals from the extracellular matrix (ECM) and blood, ECs are directly confronted to complex hemodynamic environment. These physical inputs are translated into biochemical signals, dictating multiple aspects of cell behaviour and destination, including growth, differentiation, migration, adhesion, death and survival. Mechanosensors are initial responders to changes in mechanical environments, and the overwhelming majority of them are located on the plasma membrane. Physical forces affect plasma membrane fluidity and change of protein complexes on plasma membrane, accompanied by altering intercellular connections, cell-ECM adhesion, deformation of the cytoskeleton, and consequently, transcriptional responses in shaping specific phenotypes. Among the diverse forces exerted on ECs, shear stress (SS), defined as tangential friction force exerted by blood flow, has been extensively studied, from mechanosensing to mechanotransduction, as well as corresponding phenotypes. However, the precise mechanosensors and signalling pathways that determine atheroprone and atheroprotective phenotypes of arteries remain unclear. Moreover, it is worth to mention that some established mechanosensors of atheroprotective SS, endothelial glycocalyx, for example, might be dismantled by atheroprone SS. Therefore, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on mechanosensors in ECs for SS signals. We emphasize how these ECs coordinate or differentially participate in phenotype regulation induced by atheroprone and atheroprotective SS.

ADAMTS18 deficiency leads to preputial gland hypoplasia and fibrosis in male mice

ADAMTSs (A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs) are a family of 19 secreted zinc metalloproteinases that play a major role in the assembly and degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during development, morphogenesis, tissue repair, and remodeling. ADAMTS18 is a poorly characterized member of the ADAMTS family. Previously, ADAMTS18 was found to participate in the development of female reproductive tract in mice. However, whether ADAMTS18 also plays a role in the development of male reproductive system remains unclear. In this study, Adamts18 mRNA was found to be highly expressed in the basal cells of the developing preputial gland. Male Adamts18 knockout (Adamts18−/−) mice exhibit abnormal preputial gland morphogenesis, including reduced size and sharp outline. Histological analyses of preputial gland from 2-week-old male Adamts18−/− mice showed significant atrophy of the whole gland. Preputial glands from 7 months and older Adamts18−/− mice appeared macroscopic swelling on their surface. Histologically, preputial gland swelling is characterized by tissue fibrosis and thicker keratinized squamous cell layer. Preputial gland lesions in age-matched male Adamts18+/+ mice were barely detected. ADAMTS18 deficiency does not lead to significant changes in morphogenesis of prostate and testis in male mice. These results indicate that ADAMTS18 is required for normal morphogenesis and homeostasis of the preputial gland in male mice.

Endothelium as a Source and Target of H2S to Improve Its Trophism and Function.

The vascular endothelium consists of a single layer of squamous endothelial cells (ECs) lining the inner surface of blood vessels. Nowadays, it is no longer considered as a simple barrier between the blood and vessel wall, but a central hub to control blood flow homeostasis and fulfill tissue metabolic demands by furnishing oxygen and nutrients. The endothelium regulates the proper functioning of vessels and microcirculation, in terms of tone control, blood fluidity, and fine tuning of inflammatory and redox reactions within the vessel wall and in surrounding tissues. This multiplicity of effects is due to the ability of ECs to produce, process, and release key modulators. Among these, gasotransmitters such as nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are very active molecules constitutively produced by endotheliocytes for the maintenance and control of vascular physiological functions, while their impairment is responsible for endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and impaired wound healing and vascularization due to diabetes, infections, and ischemia. Upregulation of H2S producing enzymes and administration of H2S donors can be considered as innovative therapeutic approaches to improve EC biology and function, to revert endothelial dysfunction or to prevent cardiovascular disease progression. This review will focus on the beneficial autocrine/paracrine properties of H2S on ECs and the state of the art on H2S potentiating drugs and tools.

The development and stem cells of the esophagus.

The esophagus is derived from the anterior portion of the foregut endoderm, which also gives rise to the respiratory system. As it develops, the esophageal lining is transformed from a simple columnar epithelium into a stratified squamous cell layer, accompanied by the replacement of unspecified mesenchyme with layers of muscle cells. Studies in animal models have provided significant insights into the roles of various signaling pathways in esophageal development. More recent studies using human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) further demonstrate that some of these signaling pathways are conserved in human esophageal development. In addition, a combination of mouse genetics and hPSC differentiation approaches have uncovered new players that control esophageal morphogenesis. In this Review, we summarize these new findings and discuss how the esophagus is established and matures throughout different stages, including its initial specification, respiratory-esophageal separation, epithelial morphogenesis and maintenance. We also discuss esophageal muscular development and enteric nervous system innervation, which are essential for esophageal structure and function.

A deviant behaviour of squamous cell carcinoma of eyelid: Rare case report

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant tumour of the squamous cell layer of the epidermis accounting for about 9.2% of all eyelid malignancies. We report a case of a 45 year old female patient presented with itching, sticky discharge and swelling over the right upper eyelid (RUL) for 20 days. Initially, it was diagnosed as a case of blepharitis of Right Eye and antibiotic eye ointment and lubricants were prescribed. And 2 months later she presented with a mass over the same site. Past history of trauma, burn and chronic exposure to sunlight was absent. Examination revealed a mass of 1.25cm -1.50cm width &amp; 1cm - 1.25cm in height approximately, shape was irregular &amp; firm in consistency. Eyelid margin contour was lost with loss of eyelashes. Other ocular structures were within normal limits. No associated lymphadenopathy was noted. Incisional biopsy of the mass was suggestive of moderately differentiated SCC. Wide excision of the mass was done. Full thickness defect of the upper eyelid was reconstructed with Cutler - Beard technique. : Wide variation at presentation, delay in diagnosis and high propensity to recur with risk of perineural spread leads to difficulty in management. Therefore, any suspicious lesion eyelid lesion should be excised and biopsied.

Rapid Way to Generate Mouse Models for In Vivo Studies of the Endothelium.

A single layer of squamous endothelial cells (ECs), the endothelium, regulates the flow of substance and fluid into and out of a tissue. The endothelium is also involved in vasculogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, which is a crucial process for organ development in the embryo and fetus. Because most murine mutations of genes involved in EC development cause early embryo lethality, EC-specific conditional knockout (cKO) mouse models are indispensable for in vivo studies. cKO mice including the floxed allele can be generated through advanced approaches including embryonic stem cell-mediated gene targeting or the CRISPR/Cas system. EC-specific mouse models can be generated through further breeding of floxed mice with a Cre driver line, the latest information of which is available in the Jackson Cre Repository or the EUCOMMTOOLS project. Because it takes a long time (generally 1–2 years) to generate EC-specific mouse models, researchers must thoroughly design and plan a breeding strategy before full-scale mouse experiments, which saves time and money for in vivo study. In summary, revolutionary technical advances in embryo manipulation and assisted reproduction technologies have made it easier to generate EC-specific mouse models, which have been used as essential resources for in vivo studies of the endothelium.

Morphology and functional ontogeny of the digestive tract of Barbus altianalis larvae

The ontogenetic development of digestive structures in Ripon barbel (Barbus altianalis) larvae was investigated using standard histological and histochemical procedures from hatching up to 60 days after hatching (DAH). The study was conducted to determine the best period of exogenous feeding and the stage when the digestive tract is able to digest processed microdiets. Results indicated that at hatching, the digestive tract, mouth and anus were closed. The opening of the mouth and anus were observed 3–4 DAH, whereas complete separation of the entire gut was observed on 5 DAH. Exogenous feeding started 5–6 DAH, but complete yolk exhaustion occurred 7–8 DAH, indicating a period of mixed feeding. Mucosal epithelial folds were first noted 3 DAH in the anterior intestine and became profound with some goblet cells (mucous cells) by 6 DAH. At 7 DAH the mucous cells had started secreting both neutral and acid glycoconjugates. The first intestinal single loop occurred at 28–30 DAH and a double loop at 45–50 DAH. Each coiling was proceeded by larval weight increase. By 7 DAH the buccopharyngeal cavity was lined by a layer of squamous epithelial cells with scattered goblet cells and tastebuds that became numerous by 15 DAH. At hatching, the liver and the pancreas were undifferentiated, but on 3 DAH the hepatocytes and zymogen granules of the pancreas became clear. By 7 DAH both organs enlarged, making extensions into the posterior. Intestines coiling at 28–30 DAH coincided with the beginning of external dressing of the scales, a period when B. altianalis started transforming into a juvenile. By 7–8 DAH the digestive structure showed all the necessary digestive features that could enable the larvae to digest any compound diet suggesting that it may be feasible to substitute or offer a complete microdiet during larvae nursing with reduced larval mortality.

Extension Without Malignant Changes in Oral Melanotic Macule: A Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Oral melanotic macule (OMM) is a benign discoloration of oral mucosa that is identified by an increase in melanin pigmentation. The diagnosis of OMM is critical because it may have a similarity to oral melanoma at early stages. Therefore, microscopic examination is necessary to confirm the accurate diagnosis of the OMM. Case Presentation: We report two cases of discoloration in the oral cavity with asymmetry and border irregularity. After obtaining informed consent, we performed an excisional biopsy that showed the increase of melanin adjacent to the basal and parabasal layers of squamous epithelial cells, confirming the diagnosis of OMM. Conclusions: Early melanoma can have a similar clinical appearance to OMM. Therefore, an excisional biopsy can be done and the diagnosis of OMM can be confirmed by microscopic examination.

Markers of endothelial dysfunction in early and advanced breast cancer dissemination

Endothelium is a specialized lining of blood vessels, made up of a single layer of simple squamous cells that carry out transport and paracrine activities. The increasing number of studies suggest that endothelial cells play an indirect role in tumor growth and metastasis. Due to the fact that distant metastases are the main cause of death in breast cancer, markers of early neoplastic dissemination, undetectable by available imaging methods, are sought and that could justify the use of more aggressive neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies, as well as might be a new potential therapeutic goals. Adhesins involved in the regulation of processes of differentiation, proliferation, migration and apoptosis raised interest among oncologists. Among a large group of recognized markers of endothelial dysfunction, mostly adhesins: E-selectin, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 were studied. Increase in the concentration of these adhesins occurs in patients with distant dissemination of breast cancer cells. Available research results indicate the potential prognostic significance of these markers.