Tissue Lesions Research Articles

Physalis Calyx seu Fructus relieves chicken intestinal damage to heat via improving the antioxidant ability

Heat-stress-induced oxidative and inflammatory responses were important factors contributing to chicken intestinal damage. The purpose of this study was based on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Physalis Calyx seu Fructus (Jin Deng Long, JDL) to investigate its efficacy and mechanism in relieving chicken heat stress damage. Primary chicken embryo duodenum cells and 90 30-day-old specific-pathogen-free chicken were randomly divided into control and JDL groups to establish heat stress models in vitro and in vivo. The mitigating effect was assessed through the oxidation-related enzymes and key genes, histopathology, and inflammatory factors. The results demonstrated that 100 µg/mL JDL extract could effectively alleviate heat stress damage to chicken embryo duodenum cells at 42°C. A strong antioxidant capacity of 100 µg/mL JDL extract was shown in the downregulation of LDH (at 5 h, P < 0.01) and MDA (at 5 h, P < 0.05), in the upregulation of SOD (at 5 and 10 h, P < 0.01), CAT (at 5 h, P < 0.01), and GSH-PX and T-AOC (at 0 h, P < 0.01) as well as in the high transcription level of NQO1 (at 5 and 10 h, P < 0.05) and HO-1 (at 5 and 10 h, P < 0.01). Supplements with 1 and 3 g/kg b.wt, respectively, in the drinking water both suppressed the rise of body temperature and had light pathological lesions of chicken duodenal tissues caused by heat stress at 40 ± 1°C. Accordingly, the chicken of JDL extract groups showed a lower inflammatory response as manifested by a lower level of IL-10 and higher levels of IL-6 and TNF-α and a strong antioxidant capacity characterized by lower level of MDA and higher levels of SOD and GSH-PX in the serum as well as also showed a higher transcription level of Nrf2, NQO1, and HO-1 in the duodenal tissues. In conclusion, JDL extract relieved chicken intestinal damage to heat via improving the antioxidant ability and reducing the inflammatory response.

Evaluating the Harmony Between Clinical Observations and Pathological Findings in Oral Soft Tissue Lesions: A Two-Decade Retrospective Study of Diagnostic Consistency

Evaluating the Harmony Between Clinical Observations and Pathological Findings in Oral Soft Tissue Lesions: A Two-Decade Retrospective Study of Diagnostic Consistency

Epidemiology of the most Prevalent Cancers in Ninewa between 2017–2021

Purpose. Cancer is characterized by abnormal cell growth resulting from uncontrolled cell division. These cells spread and form metastatic lesions in normal tissues, leading to loss of tissue and organ function. Cancer is one of the most life-threatening diseases worldwide that develops in humans. regardless of sex, ethnicity, or nationality.Material and methods. Here, we conducted a retrospective study to collect data on the various types of cancers prevalent in Ninewa, Iraq, between 2017–2021, using hospital records pooled in the Iraq Cancer Registry. We focused on the top 10 most notable cancers prevalent in humans.Results. Our study revealed that number of novel cancer cases and mortality rates have been increasing annually between 2017– 2021. Females had higher rates of cancer occurrence than males. The most prevalent cancers in Ninewa were breast cancer in women and lung cancer in men. Leukemia was the most common pediatric cancer. Furthermore, this study reported that lung cancer had the highest mortality rate in Ninewa, followed by breast cancer.Conclusion Our study provides a statistical overview on cancer cases in the Ninewa governorate, and will be useful to clinicians, faculty members and other professionals in the medical field.

Identification of Novel and Rare GNAS Mutations in Craniofacial Fibrous Dysplasia.

Fibrous dysplasia (FD), caused by activating mutations of GNAS, is a skeletal disorder with considerable clinicopathological heterogeneity. Although prevalent mutations such as R201C and R201H dominate in FD, a limited number of rare mutations, including R201S, R201G, and Q227L, have been documented. The scarcity of information concerning these uncommon mutations motivates our investigation, seeking to enhance comprehension of this less-explored subgroup within FD. This study introduces three cases of craniofacial FD exhibiting rare GNAS mutations. Employing DNA sequencing on fresh frozen lesion tissues, we conducted a thorough analysis of clinical, radiological, and pathological features, delving into genotypic and phenotypic correlations. A comparative assessment with our previous series was also conducted. In the subset of patients subjected to DNA sequencing, a novel GNAS missense mutation (Q227E) was identified in one case, while a rare GNAS mutation (R201S) in exon 8 was found in the other two patients. Although no apparent phenotypic distinctions were observed among those with GNAS hotspot mutations (R201C, R201H), a more severe phenotype was discerned in the case featuring the novel GNAS mutation Q227E. This study marks the first report of the Q227E mutation in the GNAS gene associated with bone disease, enriching our understanding of FD's genetic basis and shedding light on the clinicopathological heterogeneity of craniofacial FD.

Benign Soft Tissue Lesions Responsible for Pain: When and How Should the IR Intervene.

In most of the cases Interventional Radiology techniques and therapies are proposed for the management of symptomatic soft tissue benign tumors responsible for pain and/or compression symptoms aiming to offer a curative intent by means of tumor necrosis with subsequent symptoms' management and improvement of life quality. The ablative therapies include chemical, thermal and non-thermal approaches while, trans-arterial (chemo)embolization also has a distinct role. Adjunct ancillary techniques should be performed whenever necessary to increase efficacy and safety and avoid or reduce complications. The purpose of the current review is to identify the basis for treating soft tissue benign tumors with Interventional Radiology therapies, to offer a detailed review of them, to explain the expected outcomes and describe techniques for avoiding complications. Furthermore, a reflection upon future directions will be suggested.

Unveiling pathology-related predictive uncertainty of glomerular lesion recognition using prototype learning.

Recognizing glomerular lesions is essential in diagnosing chronic kidney disease. However, deep learning faces challenges due to the lesion heterogeneity, superposition, progression, and tissue incompleteness, leading to uncertainty in model predictions. Therefore, it is crucial to analyze pathology-related predictive uncertainty in glomerular lesion recognition and unveil its relationship with pathological properties and its impact on model performance. This paper presents a novel framework for pathology-related predictive uncertainty analysis towards glomerular lesion recognition, including prototype learning based predictive uncertainty estimation, pathology-characterized correlation analysis and weight-redistributed prediction rectification. The prototype learning based predictive uncertainty estimation includes deep prototyping, affinity embedding, and multi-dimensional uncertainty fusion. The pathology-characterized correlation analysis is the first to use expert-based and learning- based approach to construct the pathology-related characterization of lesions and tissues. The weight-redistributed prediction rectification module performs reweighting- based lesion recognition. To validate the performance, extensive experiments were conducted. Based on the Spearman and Pearson correlation analysis, the proposed framework enables more efficient correlation analysis, and strong correlation with pathology-related characterization can be achieved (c index>0.6 and p<0.01). Furthermore, the prediction rectification module demonstrated improved lesion recognition performance across most metrics, with enhancements of up to 6.36%. The proposed predictive uncertainty analysis in glomerular lesion recognition offers a valuable approach for assessing computational pathology's predictive uncertainty from a pathology-related perspective. The paper provides a solution for pathology-related predictive uncertainty estimation in algorithm development and clinical practice.

Application of 3D-printed porous prosthesis for the reconstruction of infectious bone defect with concomitant severe soft tissue lesion: a case series of 13 cases

Abstract Background Treating infectious bone defects combined with large soft-tissue lesions poses significant clinical challenges. Herein, we introduced a modified two-stage treatment approach involving the implantation of 3D-printed prostheses and flap repair to treat large segmental infectious tibial bone defects. Method We conducted a retrospective study of 13 patients treated at our center between April 2018 and March 2022 for tibial infections owing to posttraumatic infection and chronic osteomyelitis combined with soft tissue defects. The average defect length was 14.0 cm (range, 5.7–22.9 cm). The flap area ranged from 14 × 5 to 15 × 8 + 25 × 15 cm. Sural neurocutaneous, lesser saphenous neurocutaneous, and local fasciocutaneous flaps were used to repair the skin defects. In the second stage, 3D-printed prostheses were designed and implanted. Union rate, complications, and functional outcomes were assessed at the final follow-up. Result The average follow-up period was 31.1 months (range, 17–47 months), with an average interval of 208.1 days (range, 139–359 days) between the two stages. According to our criteria, 7 of the 13 patients achieved radiographic healing without intervention. Two patients developed prosthesis-related complications and underwent revision surgery. Two patients experienced recurrent infections leading to prosthesis removal and debridement surgery, with the infection ultimately eradicated in one and the other undergoing amputation. Three patients experienced noninfectious flap-related complications, however, all eventually healed through surgical intervention. Conclusion The use of 3D-printed porous titanium prostheses combined with flap soft-tissue repair for the treatment of infectious tibial bone defects did not increase the rate of infection recurrence and provided good functional recovery, offering more options for the treatment of infectious bone defects.

The total electric charge and time of application of galvanic currents to macrophages can optimize the release of IL-1β with low cell death

Galvanic current has been emerging as a novel therapy to regenerate chronic tissue lesions, including musculoskeletal and dermatological lesions. Recently, the NLRP3 inflammasome and IL-1β release have been identified as a signaling pathway triggered upon galvanic current application. However, the parameters for the clinical application of galvanic current remain subjective to the experience of the facultative in charge. In this study we used an in vitro model of macrophage culture and application of different combinations of the parameters of galvanic current to study IL-1β production and cell death. Increasing electric charge of galvanic current induces the release of IL-1β, but electric charges equal or higher to 144 mC also increase cell death. The release of IL-1β have a substantial variation within different electric charge of galvanic currents, being increased by decreasing the current and increasing the time of current application. Within the range of current intensities studied, the most optimal protocol for maximizing IL-1β release without inducing cell death was identified at electric charges equal to or near 144 mC, applied over a total duration of approximately 25 s. Our findings lay the groundwork for future in vivo studies assessing different electric charge of galvanic current, with the aim of yielding clinically relevant outcomes.

ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF INTEGRATED TREATMENT IN ADOLESCENTS WITH CHRONIC CATARRHAL GINGIVITIS LIVING IN ENVIRONMENTALLY COMPROMISED AREAS

The challenging ecological situation in Western Ukraine, coupled with natural geochemical factors such as deficiencies in fluorine and iodine, contributes to the deterioration of children's somatic and dental health. This underscores the urgent need to develop comprehensive treatment and preventive strategies to mitigate pathological processes in periodontal tissues and enhance treatment outcomes. Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of treating chronic catarrhal gingivitis in children residing in environmentally polluted areas with iodine and fluorine deficiencies (the cities of Yavoriv and Zhydachiv). The study observed children aged 12–15, comprising 59 participants in the main group and 42 in the control group (from the city of Lviv, considered an ecologically clean region). Children in the main group were treated according to a specialized protocol developed for the study, while those in the control group received treatment per the Ministry of Health of Ukraine's protocols for “Therapeutic Dentistry”. Methods. The treatment regimen for chronic catarrhal gingivitis in the main group included: local measures such as Professional oral hygiene, traditional anti-inflammatory agents (tinctures of chamomile, St. John’s wort, calendula), applications of “Holisal” gel on the gingival surface, use of “Lacalut Aktiv Herbal” toothpaste and “Lacalut Aktiv” mouthwash; systemic treatment including “Kinder Biovital Lecithin” gel to enhance immune system function, “Ascorutin” to reduce capillary fragility and permeability. This multifaceted approach aimed to address both local and systemic factors influencing periodontal health in children from ecologically compromised regions. Results and discussion. The evaluation of the immediate results of the treatment was carried out visually, taking into account the change in clinical symptoms (on 5-6 days) and with the help of periodontal and hygienic indices, immunological indicators. Periodontal status was assessed by papillary-marginal alveolar indices, communal periodontal index and gingival bleeding index. Oral hygiene was assessed by the Fedorov-Volodkina index. In order to assess the adaptive capabilities of the body and determine the risk factors for periodontal tissue lesions, the content of leukocytes in the oral fluid of children was evaluated. In the initial period of the treatment course, we found a decrease in the values ​​of periodontal indices in both the main and control groups. On the 5-6th day after the start of treatment of chronic catarrhal gingivitis, the value of the papillary-marginal alveolar index in the main group was 20.16±1.95% that was significantly lower compared to the control group, 33.21±1.82%. Following the treatment, a decrease in the bleeding index was found in the children of the main group accounting 0.94±0.11 points versus 1.42±0.15 points in the control group. Analyzing the changes in the communal periodontal index, a more significant decrease was found in the children of the main group (1.09±0.15 points) compared to the control group (1.39±0.16 points). Along with the normalization of the clinical condition of the periodontal tissues in children with chronic catarrhal gingivitis who were under our observation, an improvement in oral hygiene was noted, which, in our opinion, can be due to the implementation of professional hygiene, quality control of tooth brushing, as well as conversations on hygiene education with children and their parents. This is confirmed by indicators of the hygienic index of Fedorov-Volodkina. Since local immunity is a sensitive indicator of the effect of external and internal environmental factors, we determined the concentration of leukocytes in the oral fluid 5-6 days after the treatment of chronic catarrhal gingivitis. It is worth noting that after treatment for 5-6 days, the number of leukocytes in the oral fluid of children with chronic catarrhal gingivitis in the study groups significantly decreased. Thus, in the children of the main group, the number of leukocytes was 205.14±4.28 × 106 /l and 220.40±4.21 × 106 /l in the control group, which was significantly lower than the corresponding values ​​before treatment (р&lt;0 ,01). Thus, the study results have demonstrated the described treatment course can significantly normalize and improve the condition of periodontal tissues and oral hygiene in the children of the main group with chronic catarrhal gingivitis that is confirmed by oral hygiene indices and laboratory findings.

Single-Site Endoscopic Surgery for Soft Tissue Lesions: An Innovative Technique

Single-Site Endoscopic Surgery for Soft Tissue Lesions: An Innovative Technique

Suppression of TRIM72-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress facilitates FOXM1 promotion of diabetic ulcer healing.

Foot ulcers are amongst the most prevalent complications of diabetes, known for their delayed healing process. Recent research indicates that the transcription factor forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) plays a role in promoting diabetic ulcer repair. However, the precise mechanisms underlying FOXM1 functions in this context remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify the role of tripartite motif-containing protein 72 (TRIM72)-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress in FOXM1 promotive effects. Immunohistochemistry revealed that FOXM1 expression was significantly reduced in the lesion tissues of diabetic foot ulcer patients. In vitro experiments revealed a decrease in FOXM1 expression in cultured dermal fibroblasts under high glucose conditions. Activating FOXM1 with a plasmid accelerated the proliferation, migration, and differentiation of dermal fibroblasts and mitigated endoplasmic reticulum stress under high glucose conditions. Additionally, ChIP and luciferase reporter gene assays confirmed that FOXM1 suppressed TRIM72 expression transcriptionally by binding to its promoter. Furthermore, high glucose induced ubiquitination of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase alpha (AMPKα), whilst inactivation of AMPKα signalling reversed the aforementioned effects of FOXM1 on cells. Finally, the FOXM1-overexpressing plasmid was transfected in vivo, which promoted wound healing in a murine diabetic ulcer model. In conclusion, FOXM1 reduces endoplasmic reticulum stress by inhibiting TRIM72-mediated AMPKα ubiquitination, thereby accelerating the healing of diabetic ulcers.

Clinical and Pathological Features of a Schwannoma Harboring a SH3PXD2A::HTRA1 Gene Fusion in a Pre-pubescent Patient

An 11-year-old girl presented with a soft tissue lesion on the dorsal aspect of the left middle finger. Ultrasound imaging demonstrated a 2.8 cm × 0.8 cm × 0.8 cm lesion overlying the dorsal aspect of the base of the digit near the metacarpophalangeal joint. The patient’s past medical history is remarkable for neuroblastoma, diagnosed at 9 months of age, with no MYCN amplification or 1p loss. We report a pediatric schwannoma harbouring a SH3PXD2A::HTRA1 gene fusion with a distinctive serpentine histology. The lesion consisted of well-circumscribed nodules surrounded by thin EMA-positive perineural capsules. Each nodule was composed of lesional cells arranged in short fascicles with occasional clefting and a distinct “serpentine” palisading pattern. The lesion demonstrated Antoni A regions with Verocay body formation. No significant Antoni B areas were seen. The lesional Schwannian cells were bland with elongated and tapered nuclei, showing strong and diffuse positivity for S100. This pre-pubescent girl (Tanner Stage 2) is currently the youngest reported case of fusion-positive schwannoma. In addition, she has a significant prior history of a malignant neoplasm, and the lesion arose in an appendicular location.

Prospective evaluation of soft tissue tumors: Correlation of ST-RADS MRI reporting guidelines with histopathological findings

Introduction. Soft tissue tumors, ranging from benign to highly malignant, pose diagnostic challenges due to their histological diversity. MRI is the preferred imaging modality for these tumors, but variability in interpretation affects consistency. The Soft Tissue Reporting and Data System (ST-RADs), modeled after BI-RADS, offers a standardized approach for classifying soft tissue lesions based on MRI features, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing unnecessary biopsies. This study aims to validate the clinical utility of ST-RADs by correlating MRI findings with histopathological examination (HPE), providing evidence for its use in routine practice to enhance diagnostic confidence and optimize patient management. Purpose. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the Soft Tissue Reporting and Data System (ST-RADS) in diagnosing soft tissue tumors using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), correlating MRI findings with histopathological examination (HPE) outcomes. Knowledge generated. Diagnostic accuracy was found to be high, with a ROC AUC of 0.959. Epidemiological insights indicate that a significant portion of the affected population is over 40 years old, with a balanced gender distribution. Clinical utility highlights the potential to reduce invasive diagnostic procedures through a reliable, non-invasive, imaging-based classification. Histopathological correlation confirms that MRI findings are consistent with HPE diagnoses, further validating the reliability of ST-RADs. Methods. A prospective observational study was conducted over 18 months at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, involving 40 patients with suspected soft tissue tumors. MRI scans were performed using a 1.5 Tesla MRI system and classified according to ST-RADS guidelines. Histopathological examination was used as the gold standard for diagnosis. Statistical analysis included frequency percentages and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Results. The study primarily involved older adults, with 28 participants aged over 40 years (70%), including a significant portion aged 60-70 years (13 participants, 32.5%). The gender distribution was balanced, with 18 males (45%) and 22 females (55%). Diagnoses revealed 17 sarcomas (42.5%), 11 lipomas (27.5%), and 3 ganglion cysts (7.5%). Most lesions were benign, found in 27 cases (67.5%), and the ST-RADS classification demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy (ROC AUC = 0.959, P &lt; 0.0001). The optimal cutoff at ST-RADS 0-3 versus 4-5 provided a sensitivity of 92.31% and specificity of 85.19%, which is crucial for distinguishing benign from malignant tumors. Conclusion. The ST-RADS system provides a structured approach to MRI assessment of soft tissue tumors, facilitating accurate differentiation between benign and malignant lesions. Correlation with histopathological findings supports its clinical utility, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures and guiding appropriate treatment strategies. Future enhancements and integration with advanced diagnostic tools could further improve diagnostic precision and patient care outcomes.

Potential Pitfalls of IgG4 Immunohistochemical Staining on Lesional Tissue in Cutaneous Acantholytic Disorders.

The diagnostic utility of immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded sections in bullous disorders is useful when frozen tissue is not available. In pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus foliaceus, an intercellular lace-like staining pattern of IgG4 on lesional tissue by immunohistochemistry has been described, with a comparable sensitivity and specificity to direct immunofluorescence on perilesional tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the staining pattern of IgG4 in non-immunobullous disorders to highlight the potential pitfalls when using this stain. In this study, we conducted a retrospective review of our institution's database of non-immunobullous disorders where immunohistochemistry of IgG4 was performed to rule out pemphigus. We identified 27 cases where IgG4 immunohistochemistry was performed and observed intercellular IgG4 staining in some cases of Grover disease, bullous impetigo, irritated dermal hypersensitivity reaction, acantholytic actinic keratosis, and graft versus host disease. Our results indicate that the interpretation of IgG4 staining by immunohistochemistry in cutaneous acantholytic disorders should be approached with caution. Confirmation on cryosections with direct immunofluorescence study results is important in these settings.

Heterotopic submandibular gland with herniation through the mylohyoid boutonnière: a unique radiological case.

To describe a rare case of heterotopic submandibular gland (SMG) tissue herniating through the mylohyoid boutonnière into the anterior submandibular space, diagnosed using imaging, and to provide insights into its clinical implications. A 59-year-old male with a history of smoking and type 2 diabetes presented with new-onset hoarseness. Imaging, including contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), was performed. The lesion's imaging characteristics, location, and tissue composition on CT and MRI were analyzed, and differential diagnoses were considered. CT and MRI revealed a well-defined soft tissue lesion in the right anterior submandibular space, exhibiting features consistent with ectopic SMG tissue. On MRI, the lesion was iso- to slightly hyperintense compared to surrounding muscle tissue and showed ductal structures leading to the sublingual space, with a discontinuity in the mylohyoid muscle. No malignancy or other pathologies were identified, and the patient's hoarseness improved with treatment for dyspepsia. This case highlights the diagnostic value of imaging in identifying rare anatomical anomalies like heterotopic SMG with herniation through the mylohyoid boutonnière. Accurate diagnosis can prevent unnecessary procedures and guide appropriate management.

Metalloproteomic analysis of hemophilic arthropathy synovial tissue: insights into metal overload and pathogenesis.

Hemophilic arthropathy (HA) is a joint disease characterized by local iron overload stemming from erythrocyte rupture and closely linked to synovial lesions. However, the precise molecular characteristics of clinical HA synovial samples remain to be defined. To gain insight into HA synovial tissue lesions, we utilized a metalloprotein strategy to compare the metal and protein spectra of HA with those of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. We collected synovial samples from patients with HA, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Tissue metal and protein profiles were obtained by metallomics and proteomics, respectively. Finally, metalloproteomics strategies compared metal content, proteins, metalloproteins, and the life processes involved. Our metallomics analysis revealed an explicit increase in heavy metal content, particularly arsenic and mercury, in HA synovial samples. Through proteomics, we delineated specific metalloproteins and identified correlations between metals and pathways. These findings yield valuable insights into the pathogenesis of HA and offer potential therapeutic targets for conditions characterized by iron overload.

Kisspeptin and Endometriosis-Is There a Link?

This article presents a narrative review that explores the potential link between kisspeptin-a key regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis-and the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Kisspeptin plays a significant role in regulating reproductive functions by modulating the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn stimulates the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Recent studies suggest that kisspeptin may also impact peripheral reproductive tissues and influence inflammatory processes involved in the development of endometriosis. Altered kisspeptin signaling has been associated with the abnormal hormonal environment observed in endometriosis, which affects menstrual cycles and ovarian function. Research indicates that women with endometriosis exhibit altered levels of kisspeptin and its receptor, KISS1R, in both eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues, suggesting a role in disease progression, particularly in tissue invasion and lesion formation. Kisspeptin's role in regulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes essential for tissue remodeling, further supports its potential contribution to the pathophysiology of endometriosis. Moreover, kisspeptin-based therapeutic strategies are currently under investigation, with the aim of providing targeted treatments that reduce the side effects commonly associated with existing therapies. Despite promising findings, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which kisspeptin influences endometriosis.

In Vivo Surface-Enhanced Transmission Raman Spectroscopy and Impact of Frozen Biological Tissues on Lesion Depth Prediction.

Plasmonic surface-enhanced transmission Raman spectroscopy (SETRS) has emerged as a promising optical technique for detecting and predicting the depths of deep-seated lesions in biological tissues. However, in vivo studies using SETRS are scarce and typically show shallow penetration depths. Moreover, the optical parameters used in the prediction process are often derived from frozen samples and there is limited understanding of how freezing affects the optical properties of biological tissues and the accuracy of depth prediction in living models. In this work, we conduct in vivo SETRS measurements on thick abdominal tissue region of the live rats to investigate the impact of freezing on the measured optical properties for the purpose of depth prediction. First, we fabricated ultrahigh bright surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) nanotags and utilized a custom transmission Raman system. We then measured the change of optical attenuation at two different wavelengths (Δμ) for four types of rat tissues (including skin, fat, muscle, and liver) following freezing. The freezing process dramatically affects Δμ values, even after only 1 day of freezing. In contrast, Δμ values obtained from fresh samples enable precise localization of SERS lesion phantoms in the live rat with only 5% deviation. The total thickness of the live rat is 2.6 cm, which, to the best of our knowledge, is the highest value of in vivo SETRS studies so far. This work helps to fill the gap in the SERS field of tissue localization and optical coefficient studies in highly heterogeneous tissues, and demonstrates the potential of the SETRS technique to achieve precise clinical localization of deep lesions.

Parotid and Sublingual Salivary gland as an Indicator of Antioxidant Efficacy in Experimentally Induced Diabetic Rats

The parotid and sublingual glands were considered the most appropriate tissues to study the effects of diabetes mellitus among the major salivary glands. Globally, diabetes mellitus is a major healthcare concern. It affects bodily tissues and organs in a variety of pathological ways, particularly the major salivary glands. Thirty adult, healthy albino rats were divided into three equal groups of ten animals each. Group I was a control group that did not receive any treatment, group II was experimentally induced to have diabetes mellitus using alloxan, a chemical agent that is more or less safe and permanent, and group III was experimentally induced to have diabetes but treated with ascorbic acid (Vit. C), as an antioxidant drug. All rat groups were sacrificed and tissue samples from their parotid and sublingual glands were prepared. The tissue samples studded histologically using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&amp;E) stain, histopathologically using Periodic acid Schiff's (PAS) reaction to detect carbohydrates, and immunohistochemically using Beta cell lymphoma-2 (BCL2) as an anti-apoptotic marker. Based on the histology, histopathological, and immunohistochemical significant lesions, the obtained results showed common alterations in the parotid and sublingual glands tissues of diabetic rats. However, compared to untreated animals, rats treated with the antioxidant vitamin C showed fewer tissue changes and lesions. According to the study's findings, vitamin C functions as a helpful antioxidant to assist avoid complications from diabetes.

Application of modified Curie and SIOPEN skeleton scoring systems in 18F-AlF-NOTA-octreotide PET/CT for neuroblastoma.

The study aimed to explore the role of fluorine-18-aluminum fluoride-1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triacetic acid-octreotide (18F-OC) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in neuroblastoma (NB) and compared it with Iodine-123 labeled metaiodobenzylguanidine (123I-MIBG) scintigraphy with single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT), as well as to investigate the feasibility of the modified Curie scoring system and International Society of Pediatric Oncology Europe Neuroblastoma (SIOPEN) skeleton scoring system applied in 18F-OC PET/CT. Patients with pathologically confirmed NB underwent 123I-MIBG scintigraphy with SPECT/CT and 18F-OC PET/CT according the standard imaging protocols. The interval between the two imaging techniques ranged from 0 to 22days (median interval: 9days). The number of lesions in modified Curie scoring system and SIOPEN skeleton scoring system applied on 123I-MIBG SPECT/CT and 18F-OC PET/CT was compared. A total of 50 NB patients (male: female = 25:25) with a median age of 62-month-old were enrolled. 123I-MIBG and 18F-OC imaging were positive in 22 patients and negative in 27 patients. 1 patient had positive 18F-OC but negative 123I-MIBG results (p = 1.000). In lesion-based analysis, 18F-OC PET/CT revealed more positive lesions than 123I-MIBG scintigraphy with SPECT/CT (57 vs. 44, p < 0.001), regardless of bone/bone marrow lesions (43 vs. 37, p = 0.031) or soft tissue lesions (14 vs. 7, p = 0.016). The Curie scores of the two imaging techniques showed a significant difference (p = 0.047), whereas no statistic difference for SIOPEN scores (p = 0.688). The Curie and SIOPEN scores were significantly higher in patients with the presence of MYCN amplification or positive bone marrow puncture result (p < 0.05). 18F-OC could be used in the evaluation of NB, and the modified Curie scoring system could be used to semi-quantify the disease extent of NB in 18F-OC PET/CT.