Morphology Score Research Articles

MR imaging after patellar MACI and MPFL reconstruction: a comparison of isolated versus combined procedures.

To qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the 2.5-year MRI outcome after Matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) at the patella, reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL), and combined procedures. In 66 consecutive patients (age 22.8 ± 6.4years) with MACI at the patella (n = 16), MPFL reconstruction (MPFL; n = 31), or combined procedures (n = 19) 3T MRI was performed 2.5 years after surgery. For morphological MRI evaluation WORMS and MOCART scores were obtained. In addition quantitative cartilage T2 and T1rho relaxation times were acquired. Several clinical scores were obtained. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney-U-tests and Pearson correlations. WORMS scores at follow-up (FU) were significantly worse after combined procedures (8.7 ± 4.9) than after isolated MACI (4.3 ± 3.6, P = 0.005) and after isolated MPFL reconstruction (5.3 ± 5.7, P = 0.004). Bone marrow edema at the patella in the combined group was the only (non-significantly) worsening WORMS parameter from pre- to postoperatively. MOCART scores were significantly worse in the combined group than in the isolated MACI group (57 ± 3 vs 88 ± 9, P < 0.001). Perfect defect filling was achieved in 26% and 69% of cases in the combined and MACI group, respectively (P = 0.031). Global and patellar T2 values were higher in the combined group (Global T2: 34.0 ± 2.8ms) and MACI group (35.5 ± 3.1ms) as compared to the MPFL group (31.1 ± 3.2ms, P < 0.05). T2 values correlated significantly with clinical scores (P < 0.005). Clinical Cincinnati scores were significantly worse in the combined group (P < 0.05). After combined surgery with patellar MACI and MPFL reconstruction inferior MRI outcomes were observed than after isolated procedures. Therefore, patients with need for combined surgery may be at particular risk for osteoarthritis.

A Fast Scoring of Human Primary Respiratory Epithelia Grown at Air-Liquid Interface (ALI) to Assess Epithelial Morphology in Research and Personalized Medicine Settings.

In recent years, increasingly complex ALI protocols involving specialized, albeit laboratory-specific media have been established, while at the same time, many studies compile the data of only a few ALI donors in spite of site-, protocol- and donor-specific differentiation. We describe a simple morphology scoring protocol using histology material derived from epithelia grown on ALI inserts in parallel to other, more complex readouts. Among more than 100 ALI inserts derived from different donors, significant differences in layer score (p = 0.001) and goblet cell score (p = 0.002) were observed when ALI epithelia derived from explanted lung material were compared to trachea-derived ALI cultures. Cortisol withdrawal for the final 2 days of ALI cultures influenced goblet cell density (p = 0.001). While the histology score provides less resolution than FACS- or OMICs- based single cell analyses, the use of a subportion of the ALI epithelia grown on inserts makes it feasible to combine morphology assessment and other readouts of the same insert. This allows us to control for basic ALI morphology in research and personalized medicine settings in order to assess and, if desired, control for the impact of ALI culture protocols, site- and donor-specific influences on outcome of studies of ALI-derived epithelia.

Environmental impact assessment and conservation planning of a Middle‐Eastern River basin using a fish‐based tolerance index

AbstractThe tolerance of aquatic organisms to stressors is widely used to monitor and evaluate the condition of freshwater ecosystems. Tolerance values (TV) derived from analyses of the relationship between species and their environment are considered to be more objective than those that rely on expert opinion. We used principal component analysis (PCA) to derive a generalized stressor gradient based on physicochemical characteristics and physical habitat quality and structure. Scores of the first principal component axis (PC1) were used to estimate TV for 37 fish species collected from 54 sites in the Karun River basin, Iran. PCA of 17 variables identified stressors that were influential such as total phosphate, total nitrogen, total coliform, and habitat and morphological score. The species were separated into three categories on the stressor gradient: sensitive (18.9%), semi‐tolerant (48.6%), and tolerant species (32.4%). Based on these results we developed the Karun Fish Tolerance Index (KFTI) and demonstrated that it performed well in separating the least, moderate, and most disturbed sites in the study area. The discrimination efficiency of the KFTI was 82.5%, which makes it a robust management tool for the protection and conservation of streams and rivers in the Karun River watershed. TV developed here reflect objective characteristics of the sensitivity of fish species to the predominant stressors in the Karun and similar systems.

Ecological assessment of stream water polluted by phosphorus chemical plant: Physiological, biochemical, and molecular effects on zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos

The rapid development of the phosphorus chemical industry has caused serious pollution problems in the regional eco-environment. However, understanding of their ecotoxic effects remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the developmental toxicity of a stream polluted by a phosphorus chemical plant (PCP) on zebrafish embryos. For this, zebrafish embryos were exposed to stream water (0, 25, 50, and 100% v/v) for 96 h, and developmental toxicity, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and DNA damage were assessed. Stream water-treated embryos exhibited decreased hatching rates, heart rates, and body lengths, as well as increased mortality and malformation rates. The general morphology score system indicated that the swim bladder and pigmentation were the main abnormal morphological endpoints. Stream water promoted antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)), lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage. It also triggered apoptosis in the embryos' heads, hearts, and spines by activating apoptotic enzymes (Caspase-3 and Caspase-9). Additionally, stream water influenced growth, oxidative stress, and apoptosis-related 19 gene expression. Notably, tyr, sod (Mn), and caspase9 were the most sensitive indicators of growth, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, respectively. The current trial concluded that PCP-polluted stream water exhibited significant developmental toxicity to zebrafish embryos, which was regulated by the oxidative stress-mediated activation of endogenous apoptotic signaling pathways.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Pulmonary and Paranasal Sinus Abnormalities in Children with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Compared to Children with Cystic Fibrosis.

Rationale: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and cystic fibrosis (CF) are characterized by inherited impaired mucociliary clearance leading to chronic progressive lung disease as well as chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The diseases share morphological and functional commonalities on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lungs and paranasal sinuses, but comparative MRI studies are lacking. Objectives: To determine whether PCD shows different associations of pulmonary and paranasal sinus abnormalities on MRI and lung function test results in children (infants to adolescents) compared with children with CF. Methods: Eighteen children with PCD (median age, 9.5 [IQR, 3.4-12.7] yr; range, 0-18 yr) and 36 age-matched CF transmembrane conductance regulator modulator-naive children with CF (median age, 9.4 [3.4-13.2] yr; range, 0-18 yr) underwent same-session chest and paranasal sinus MRI as well as spirometry (to determine forced expiratory volume in 1 s percent predicted) and multiple-breath washout (to determine lung clearance index z-score). Pulmonary and paranasal sinus abnormalities were assessed using previously validated chest MRI and CRS-MRI scoring systems. Results: Mean chest MRI global score was similar in children with PCD and CF (15.0 [13.5-20.8] vs. 15.0 [9.0-15.0]; P = 0.601). Consolidations were more prevalent and severe in children with PCD (56% vs. 25% and 1.0 [0.0-2.8] vs. 0.0 [0.0-0.3], respectively; P < 0.05). The chest MRI global score correlated moderately with forced expiratory volume in 1 second percent predicted in children with PCD and children with CF (r = -0.523 and -0.687; P < 0.01) and with lung clearance index in children with CF (r = 0.650; P < 0.001) but not in PCD (r = 0.353; P = 0.196). CRS-MRI sum score and mucopyocele subscore were lower in children with PCD than in children with CF (27.5 [26.3-32.0] vs. 37.0 [37.8-40.0] and 2.0 [0.0-2.0] vs. 7.5 [4.8-9.0], respectively; P < 0.01). CRS-MRI sum score did not correlate with chest MRI score in PCD (r = 0.075-0.157; P = 0.557-0.788) but correlated moderately with MRI morphology score in CF (r = 0.437; P < 0.01). Conclusions: MRI detects differences in lung and paranasal sinus abnormalities between children with PCD and those with CF. Lung disease does not correlate with CRS in PCD but correlates in CF.

Association of early cleavage, morula compaction and blastocysts ploidy of IVF embryos cultured in a time-lapse system and biopsied for genetic test for aneuploidy

IVF embryos have historically been evaluated by morphological characteristics. The time-lapse system (TLS) has become a promising tool, providing an uninterrupted evaluation of morphological and dynamic parameters of embryo development. Furthermore, TLS sheds light on unknown phenomena such as direct cleavage and incomplete morula compaction. We retrospectively analyzed the morphology (Gardner Score) and morphokinetics (KIDScore) of 835 blastocysts grown in a TLS incubator (Embryoscope+), which were biopsied for preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). Only the embryos that reached the blastocyst stage were included in this study and time-lapse videos were retrospectively reanalysed. According to the pattern of initial cleavages and morula compaction, the embryos were classified as: normal (NC) or abnormal (AC) cleavage, and fully (FCM) or partially compacted (PCM) morulae. No difference was found in early cleavage types or morula compaction patterns between female age groups (< 38, 38–40 and > 40 yo). Most of NC embryos resulted in FCM (≅ 60%), while no embryos with AC resulted in FCM. Aneuploidy rate of AC-PCM group did not differ from that of NC-FCM group in women < 38 yo, but aneuploidy was significantly higher in AC-PCM compared to NC-FCM of women > 40 yo. However, the quality of embryos was lower in AC-PCM blastocysts in women of all age ranges. Morphological and morphokinetic scores declined with increasing age, in the NC-PCM and AC-PCM groups, compared to the NC-FCM. Similar aneuploidy rates among NC-FCM and AC-PCM groups support the hypothesis that PCM in anomalous-cleaved embryos can represent a potential correction mechanism, even though lower morphological/morphokinetic scores are seen on AC-PCM. Therefore, both morphological and morphokinetic assessment should consider these embryonic development phenomena.

Immunofluorescence study of cytoskeleton in endothelial cells induced with malaria sera

BackgroundEndothelial cells (ECs) play a major role in malaria pathogenesis, as a point of direct contact of parasitized red blood cells to the blood vessel wall. The study of cytoskeleton structures of ECs, whose main functions are to maintain shape and provide strength to the EC membrane is important in determining the severe sequelae of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The work investigated the cytoskeletal changes (microfilaments-actin, microtubules-tubulin and intermediate filaments-vimentin) in ECs induced by malaria sera (Plasmodium vivax, uncomplicated P. falciparum and complicated P. falciparum), in relation to the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.MethodsMorphology and fluorescence intensity of EC cytoskeleton stimulated with malaria sera were evaluated using immunofluorescence technique. Levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and interferon (IFN)-gamma (γ) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Control experimental groups included ECs incubated with media alone and non-malaria patient sera. Experimental groups consisted of ECs incubated with malaria sera from P. vivax, uncomplicated P. falciparum and complicated P. falciparum. Morphological scores of cytoskeletal alterations and fluorescence intensity were compared across each experiment group, and correlated with TNF and IFN-γ.ResultsThe four morphological changes of cytoskeleton included (1) shrinkage of cytoskeleton and ECs with cortical condensation, (2) appearance of eccentric nuclei, (3) presence of “spiking pattern” of cytoskeleton and EC membrane, and (4) fragmentation and discontinuity of cytoskeleton and ECs. Significant damages were noted in actin filaments compared to tubulin and vimentin filaments in ECs stimulated with sera from complicated P. falciparum malaria. Morphological damages to cytoskeleton was positively correlated with fluorescence intensity and the levels of TNF and IFN-γ.ConclusionsECs stimulated with sera from complicated P. falciparum malaria showed cytoskeletal alterations and increased in fluorescence intensity, which was associated with high levels of TNF and IFN-γ. Cytoskeletal changes of ECs incubated with complicated P. falciparum malaria sera can lead to EC junctional alteration and permeability changes, which is mediated through apoptotic pathway. The findings can serve as a basis to explore measures to strengthen EC cytoskeleton and alleviate severe malaria complications such as pulmonary oedema and cerebral malaria. In addition, immunofluorescence intensity of cytoskeleton could be investigated as potential prognostic indicator for malaria severity.

Embryo and Fetal Toxic Effects of the Hydroethanol Extract of Urtica simensis Hochst. Ex. A. Rich Leaves in Pregnant Rats

Introduction: Urtica simensis has been used to treat various diseases such as malaria, hypertension, diabetes, gonorrhea, gastritis, body swelling, and wound infections. However, the safety of consuming U. simensis leaves during pregnancy has not been evaluated yet. Therefore, this experimental study was conducted to evaluate the toxic effects of U. simensis leaf extract on the prenatal development of embryos and fetuses in pregnant rats.Methods: Fifty pregnant Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to five groups of 10 gravid rats for each experiment. Groups I–III were given 70% ethanol leaf extract of U. simensis at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg daily from 6th to 12th days of gestation. Groups IV–V were kept as pair‐fed and ad libitum controls. The developing embryos and fetuses were retrieved on 12 days and 20 days of gestation, respectively. Embryos were evaluated for growth and developmental delays. Fetuses were also assessed for growth retardation and external and visceral anomalies.Results: In the embryonic experiment, somite numbers (p = 0.001) and morphological scores (p = 0.029) were significantly decreased in pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg of U. simensis leaf extract. Embryonic developments of the caudal neural tube (CNT) (p = 0.001), otic system (p = 0.025), olfactory system (p = 0.013), and limb buds (p = 0.026) were significantly delayed in pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg of extract. Oral administration of 500 mg/kg of U. simensis leaf extract also caused significant developmental delays in the CNT (p = 0.021) and olfactory system (p = 0.032). In the fetal experiment, fetal resorption (p = 0.015) was significantly increased whereas crown rump length (p = 0.012) and fetal weight (p = 0.019) were significantly decreased in pregnant rats given 1000 mg/kg of U. simensis leaf extract.Conclusions: The embryotoxic effects of U. simensis leaf extract were evidenced by significant developmental delays. The fetal toxic effects of U. simensis leaf extract were also shown by significant decreases in fetal growth indices. Therefore, pregnant women should be well informed of the possible toxic effects of consuming U. simensis leaf during pregnancy.

Can time-lapse culture combined with artificial intelligence improve ongoing pregnancy rates in fresh transfer cycles of single cleavage stage embryos?

With the rapid advancement of time-lapse culture and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for embryo screening, pregnancy rates in assisted reproductive technology (ART) have significantly improved. However, clinical pregnancy rates in fresh cycles remain dependent on the number and type of embryos transferred. The selection of embryos with the highest implantation potential is critical for embryologists and influences transfer strategies in fertility centers. The superiority of AI over traditional morphological scoring for ranking cleavage-stage embryos based on their implantation potential remains controversial. This retrospective study analyzed 105 fresh embryo transfer cycles at the Centre for Reproductive Medicine from August 2023 to March 2024, following IVF/ICSI treatment at the cleavage stage. All embryos were cultured using time-lapse technology and scored using an automated AI model (iDAScore V2.0). Embryos were categorized into three groups based on the iDAScore V2.0: Group A (8 cells, iDA: 1.0-5.7); Group B (8 cells, iDA: 5.8-8.0); and Group C (>8 cells, iDA: 5.8-8.0). Clinical treatment outcomes, embryonic development, and pregnancy outcomes were analyzed and compared across the groups. Baseline characteristics such as patient age, AMH levels, AFC, and basal sex hormones showed no significant differences among the three groups (p > 0.05). The iDAscores were significantly higher in Group C (7.3 ± 0.5) compared to Group B (6.7 ± 0.5) and the iDAscores were significantly higher in Group B (6.7 ± 0.5) compared to Group A (4.8 ± 1.0) (p < 0.001).The mean number of high-quality embryos was highest in Group C (4.7 ± 3.0), followed by Group B (3.6 ± 1.7) and Group A (2.1 ± 1.2) (p < 0.001). There was no statistical difference (p = 0.392) in the ongoing pregnancy rate for single cleavage-stage transfers between Group B (54.5%, 30/55) and Group A (38.1%, 8/21), although there was a tendency for Group B to be higher. Combining time-lapse culture with AI scoring may enhance ongoing pregnancy rates in single cleavage-stage fresh transfer cycles.

Effects of the Herbal Product Curcumin on Cardiomyocytes in Micromass Culture and the Potential Role It May Play in Pregnancy and Development.

Introduction Herbal medicine (HM) consumption during pregnancy has been on the rise in many parts of the world. Curcumin is a proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herb component, having demonstrated efficacy in alleviating various diseases. However, there is conflicting evidence with regards to its effect on pregnancy. We assess the safety profile of the main component of turmeric, curcumin, during pregnancy. Furthermore, to investigate curcumin in combination with known teratogen ethanol to identify any protective effect that curcumin might exert. Method Embryonic chick cardiomyocytes in micromass culture were treated with varying concentrations of curcumin. Three endpoints were used to determine the effect of curcumin on these cells: contractile activity (morphological score), cell viability (resazurin assay), and total protein content (kenacid blue assay). Results Curcumin demonstrated cytotoxicity at the highest tested concentrations (10-20μM)by significantly reducing cell activity and total protein. The results of morphological scoring suggest that repeated investigations would have revealed the teratogenic potential of curcumin. Lower concentrations (50nM) of curcumin were comparable to the control. The combination of a non-toxic concentration of curcuminwith ethanol revealed additive toxicity. Conclusion It seems unlikely that curcumin will adversely affect the embryo at low doses due to issues of bioavailability. The findings of cytotoxicity and possible teratogenicity at high concentrations are a concern. Due to the limited information available regarding curcumin metabolism in human embryos, advancements in curcumin delivery systems, and the high likelihood of overconsumption, further in vivo research using animal models is required.

MiR-203a-3p attenuates apoptosis and pyroptosis of chondrocytes by regulating the MYD88/NF-κB pathway to alleviate osteoarthritis progression.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that imposes a significant socioeconomic burden worldwide. Our previous studies revealed a down-regulation of miR-203a-3p in the knee tissues of OA patients. However, the underlying mechanism through which miR-203a-3p mediates the pathological process of OA remains unknown. Thus, we aimed to determine the effects of miR-203a-3p in the progression of OA. Rat primary chondrocytes were stimulated with 10 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 24 hours, followed by transfection with 50 nM miR-203a-3p mimic, inhibitor, and siRNA for MYD88 or consistent negative controls for 48 hours. To evaluate the effects of miR-203a-3p on cartilage matrix degradation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and pyroptosis in chondrocytes, various techniques such as immunofluorescence staining, biochemical analysis, Western blotting, and the TUNEL staining were utilized. In the rat OA model, all rats were randomly divided into four groups: Sham, OA, OA+Agomir negative control (NC), and OA+Agomir. They received intra-articular injections of 25 nmol miR-203a-3p agomir, agomir NC, or normal saline twice a week for the duration of 8 weeks after OA induction. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to evaluate the effects of miR-203a-3p on cartilage matrix degradation in rats. MiR-203a-3p was down-regulated in LPS-treated rat chondrocytes and OA cartilage, and directly targeted MYD88. Moreover, miR-203a-3p significantly inhibited LPS-induced cartilage matrix degradation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and pyroptosis of chondrocytes via targeting MYD88. Mechanistically, miR-203a-3p exerted protective effects via the inhibition of the MYD88/NF-κB pathway. In the rat OA model, intra-articular injections of miR-203a-3p agomir also significantly inhibited cartilage matrix degradation, thereby alleviating OA progression. Furthermore, the miR-203a-3p agomir-treated arthritic rat dramatically exhibited better articular tissue morphology and lower OARSI scores. MiR-203a-3p plays a role in alleviating the progression of OA by regulating the MYD88/NF-κB pathway, thereby inhibiting cartilage matrix degradation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and pyroptosis of chondrocytes. It highlights the potential significance of miR-203a-3p as an important regulator of OA.

#291 : Association of Maternal Age with Embryonic Aneuploidy and Morphological Score Among Good-Prognosis Infertile Women: A Secondary Analysis of Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Aims: Maternal age has been reported to impact on embryo genetic status. However, current data on the association between maternal age and early embryo development are limited and inconclusive, especially among good-prognosis women. This study aims to determine the association between female age and embryonic aneuploidy based on next generation sequencing (NGS), as well as morphological score among women aged 20-37 years with a good prognosis. Method: This is a secondary analysis of a multi-center, randomized controlled trial conducted from July 2017 through June 2018, which investigated the efficacy of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) in good-prognosis infertile population. The women with PGT-A treatment were divided into three groups (20-24 yrs, 25-30 yrs, 31-37 yrs) according to maternal age. The diversity of embryo testing results based on NGS and morphological score were compared between three groups. Results: A total of 1809 embryos were analyzed in this study. The rates of embryonic overall aneuploidy (14.5%) and monosomy (3.0%) among females in the 25-30 age group were lower than those (aneuploidy 21.3%, monosomy 6.9%) in the 31-37 age group (adjusted P= 0.009, 0.004, respectively). However, the rates of embryonic aneuploidy (18.9%) and monosomy (3.9%) of females in the 20-24 age group did not differ from other two age groups. Although there was no significant difference in subsegmental aneuploidy rate among the three groups (P=0.215), the variation trend with age was consistent with that of embryonic aneuploidy. There was no significant difference in embryo morphological scores between the three groups. Conclusion: For young infertile women with a good prognosis, embryonic aneuploidy and monosomy are more likely to occur in advanced age more than 30 years. And embryonic development scores do not change significantly with increasing age.

Effect of combining nano-silver dressing and vacuum sealing drainage with negative pressure treatment on patients with diabetic foot ulcers

This study investigates the efficiency of the combination of nano-silver dressing and vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) with negative pressure treatment on healing diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). A total of 100 patients with DFU admitted to our hospital between January 2022 and February 2023 were selected and randomly divided into a control group and an observation group, each consisting of 50 cases. Both groups received nano-silver dressings after debridement, but the observation group also underwent closed negative pressure drainage. Scores for wound granulation morphology and comfort were assessed before and after treatment. Efficacy rate, healing time, and clinical outcomes were evaluated before and after treatment. Serum levels of procalcitonin (PCT), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and cystatin C were measured before treatment and 30 days into treatment. After 10 days of treatment, the observation group showed a higher effective rate (96%) compared to the control group (88%). The observation group had better wound granulation morphology and comfort scores, shorter granulation and healing times, reduced hospitalization duration, and smaller wound areas than the control group. Both groups experienced decreased levels of IL-6, PCT, hs-CRP, and cystatin C after treatment. The observation group had lower levels of these markers compared to the control group. In conclusion, the combination of nano-silver dressing and VSD with negative pressure treatment improves the clinical efficacy of treating DFU. This approach reduces inflammation and promotes wound healing, as evidenced by improved wound scores, faster healing times, and reduced inflammatory marker levels.

Pure tone audiometry is a new method for evaluating congenital malformation of the middle and outer ear (CMMOE)

Background: The preoperative evaluation of Congenital Malformation of the Middle and Outer Ear (CMMOE) is very important. Jahrsdoerfer score commonly used at present, based on CT scanning images of the temporal bone, is often unable to accurately evaluate deformity and hearing level. Aims/Objectives: To investigate and promote a straightforward and easily accessible assessment method, pure tone audiometry, for the evaluation of CMMOE. Material and Methods: A total of 223 cases (244 ears) CMMOE with hearing data were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 180 cases (197 ears) underwent exploratory tympanoplasty with clear conditions: ossicle numbers in 136 cases (147 ears) and morphology in 128 cases (138 ears) and vestibular window development in 137 cases (146 ears), and CT scans of temporal bone in 113 cases (120 ears). 1). The correlation was analyzed between ossicle numbers, ossicle morphology, Jahrsdoerfer score groups and their corresponding Average Air-Conduction Threshold of pure tone (AACT) at 0.5–4 KHz. 2) The AACT difference is compared among the above groups respectively and between the developed and undeveloped groups of vestibular window at 0.5–4 KHz and each frequency of 0.125–8 KHz. Spearman method was used for correlation analysis (calculating coefficient r and p values). For the data followed a normal distribution, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-test were employed, otherwise, Kruskal Wallis multiple local rank coincidence test and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used. p <0 .05 was considered statistically significant. Results: 1) The correlation coefficients between the groups of ossicle number scores, ossicle morphology scores, Jahrsdoerfer scores and their corresponding AACT are r = −0.187 (p <0 .05), r = −0.073 (p >0 .05) and r = −0.079 (p > 0.05), respectively. 2) Comparison of AACT difference based on ossicle number or morphological scores and Jahrsdoerfer scores with p > 0.05 among all groups, respectively. The AACT difference between the developed and undeveloped vestibular window groups is 5.5 (63.5/69.0) dB HL(p < .05) at 0.5–4KHz, out of 0.125–8 KHz frequency 1, 2, 4 KHz were 5.7 (65.0/70.7) dB HL, 8.4 (60.7/69.1) dB HL and 2 (61.5/63.5) dB HL, respectively, all p < 0.05, the other frequencies with all p > 0.05. Conclusions and Significance: 1) Ossicle number was correlated with AACT, but not for ossicle morphology and Jahrsdoerfer scores. 2) There was no significant difference in AACT corresponding to ossicle number or morphology scores and Jahrsdoerfer scores groups, but the patients with undeveloped vestibular window had poorer hearing than those with developed ones. Therefore, the AACT can evaluate the development of ossicle and vestibular window, and more directly reflect the hearing level than Jahrsdoerfer score. Pure tone audiometry is simple, widely used, and easily accessible, which making it a new assessment method of CMMOE.

Left atrial appendage morphology and mitral annular plane systolic excursion predict stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation and high thromboembolic risk

Abstract Background Previous research has revealed a relationship between the morphology and function of the left atrial appendage (LAA) and the rate of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). There is limited data on the impact of the left ventricular (LV) function on LAA thrombus formation. Emptying of the LAA depends on the active contraction of this structure as well as on the passive motion due to external compression from the LV base during ventricular diastole. Purpose Given these considerations the goal of this study was to investigate by transesophageal and transthoracic echocardiography the morphology and function of the LAA in relationship with the LV function and to assess the impact on incidence of stroke in a group of patients with AF with high thromboembolic risk who underwent TEE-guided direct current cardioversion. Methods We included 148 patients (age 65 ±11 yrs, 79men, median CHA2DS2-VASc score 4 (IQR 2-6), left ventricular ejection fraction 48±11%), who underwent transesophageal echocardiography before cardioversion. During a median follow-up period of 23 months (range 1-107) 34 patients developed stroke or TIA. Results The distribution of the four LAA morphologies (Figure 1) was: Cactus [47 (32%)], Cauliflower [30 (20%)], Windsock [38(26%)], and Chicken Wing [33 (22%)]. During the follow-up period stroke/TIA occurred significantly more frequently in patients with cactus or cauliflower LAA morphology vs. patients with windsock or chicken wing morphology (25 (35%) vs 9 (11%); p value=0.001). Patients who developed stroke or TIA had significantly lower MAPSE vs patients with event free survival (8±3 vs 12±3mm; p value=0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival curves for different categories of MAPSE and LAA morphology are shown in Figure 2. The significant relationship between MAPSE and stroke-free survival was retained in Cox multivariable analysis that included LAA morphology, CHA2DS2-VASc score and AF types. This association was present whether MAPSE was entered into the multivariable model as a continuous or dichotomized variable. Conclusions In patients with high thromboembolic risk, MAPSE predicts the occurrence of stroke independent of LAA morphology and CHA2DS2-VASc score. This phenomenon could be related to the impact LV diastole on LAA emptying.

Abstract 11707: Differences in Erythrocyte Morphology in Thrombus From Infarct-Related Artery: Cardioembolic Thrombosis vs. Atherothrombosis, Pathological Analyses From MITO Study

Introduction: Diagnosis of cardioembolic thrombosis is important because anticoagulant therapy is recommended for its secondary prevention. However, it is difficult to make a clear distinction in the pathogenesis between cardioembolic thrombosis and atherothrombosis. It has been reported that CD163 positive macrophage which related hemoglobin-haptoglobin complex was more involved in cardioembolic thrombus than atherothrombosis. Hypothesis: Erythrocyte morphology and its hemolysis in thrombus are associated with difference in thrombus formation between cardioembolic thrombosis and atherothrombosis. Methods: The Macrophage in Thrombus (MITO) study is an observational study examining pathological and biological differences of arterial thrombus between sinus rhythm (SR) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Patients with acute thromboembolic stroke (ATS) or ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) whose solid thrombus could be retrieved from the infarct-related artery were enrolled. Patients were divided into 2 groups as follows; Group C; ATS with AF (presumed cardioembolic thrombosis) and Group A; STEMI with SR: (presumed atherothrombosis), and compared erythrocyte morphology score; 1: erythrocyte morphology is maintained; 2: The erythrocyte morphology is not maintained, but part of its fragment are seen; and 3: The erythrocyte morphology is not maintained at all in the thrombus seen by х40. Circulating blood counts (CBC), haptoglobin and soluble CD163 were measured all the patients. Results: The score of Group C (n=20) was significantly higher than that of Group A (n=28) (p&lt;0.01)Figure. Laboratory findings are shown in the Table. Conclusions: Erythrocyte morphology disruption was thought to be more involved in cardioembolic thrombus formation. Erythrocyte morphology and CBC with soluble CD163 level are likely to help distinguish cardioembolic thrombus from atherothrombus.

Evening type negatively affects semen quality by deteriorating sperm morphology: Results from an infertility clinic

ObjectiveThe effect of sleep-related variables on the reproductive system has garnered attention in recent years. One of the mediators that reportedly plays an important role in the relationship between sleep disorders and the reproductive system is a disruption of the circadian rhythm. The aim of curent study is to investigate the effect of chronotype on morning semen quality. Study DesignThree-hundred and fourteen patients who applied to the infertility clinic were included in the study. The patients filled a socio-demographic data form. The “Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to evaluate the sleep quality while the chronotypes of the patients were evaluated with the “Morningness –Eveningness-Questionnaire (MEQ)”. Semen analyses and biochemical analysis for testosterone serum plasma level of all patients were performed. ResultsTwenty-one patients were assigned as evening, 187 patients were assigned as intermediate, and 106 were assigned as morning chronotype. No statistically significant difference was identified in the comparison of the mean MEQ scores between patients with low and normal sperm concentrations(p = 0.884). A correlation analysis indicated the presence of a significant positive correlation between normal morphology and MEQ scores (r = 0.13, p < 0.05) and a negative corelation between the hours spent in bed and sperm concentration (r = -0.13, p < 0.05). A general linear model created with independent variables suggested that the presence of varicocele and MEQ scores had a significant effect on normal morphology. ConclusionThe results of present study support that evening type could negatively affect sperm morphology; additionally, the time spent in bed also negatively affected sperm concentration.

Morphological and Biochemical Evaluation of the Testes of Hyperglycemic Guinea Pigs Treated with Cyperus Esculentus Extract

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of Cyperus esculentus extract on Testicular Morphology and Biochemistry post streptozotocin-treatment in Male Guinea Pigs. Twenty guinea pigs were divided into four groups containing five pigs each. Group A served as the negative control was treated with 5ml/kg body weight of normal saline orally, Group B were treated with a single dose of 65mg/kg body weight of streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneally, Group C were treated with a single dose of 65mg/kg body weight of STZ and daily treatment with 150mg/kg of CEE orally and Group D were treated with a single dose of 65mg/kg body weight of STZ and daily treatment with 150mg/kg of CEE orally for 20days. Morphological scores and biochemical evaluation were done. Results showed a significant decrease in testicular weight, number of spematogonia, Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, levels of SOD and CAT as well as a significant increase in the level of MDA after the administration of STZ alone when compared to the control. A significant decrease in the levels of testosterone and FSH as well as a decrease in the level of LH was observed in group B when compared to the control. However, the groups that were co-treated with the extract had a better parameters and histological profiles when compared to the positive control group. CEE has a dose-dependent ameliorative effect on STZ-induced testicular hormonal, oxidative and histomorphometric degeneration.

The Effects of Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 (FGF-2) on Achilles Tendon Injury

Category: Basic Sciences/Biologics; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Achilles tendon defects are a challenging problem, and there is a need for new treatments. We investigated the use of Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), a dense fibrin scaffold containing many growth factors and cytokines, for Achilles tendon injuries. The study found that PRF accelerates healing by promoting the proliferation and activation of tenocytes via FGF receptor/AKT signaling and TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling. While FGF-2, a growth factor in PRF, has been shown to promote tenocyte differentiation and proliferation, its effect on Achilles tendon injuries has not been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of FGF-2 on Achilles tendon healing when administered alone and to determine its specific contribution to the healing process. Methods: We used a rat model of Achilles tendon defect. A 4-mm portion of the right Achilles tendon, 4 mm proximal to the calcaneal insertion, was resected to create a tendon defect. Gelatin hydrogel sheet (MedGel PI5) as a scaffold for PBS, FGF-2 (Rigroth®), and FGF receptor inhibitor (FGFRI: Pemigatinib) was placed into the gap before suturing it with nylon sutures. We observed HE-stained specimens at 200x and assessed histological healing by counting cells and vessels and grading cell morphology. The motor function was evaluated by the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) score and the treadmill test. We compared the effects of FGF-2 on tenocytes isolated from rat Achilles tendons in the control, FGF2, and FGFRI groups. The proliferation and migration of tenocytes were measured by MTS assay and wound closure assay, respectively. Protein expression, such as Tenomodulin (Tnmd), Collagen Ⅰ, Ⅲ, and Screlaxis-A in cells, were evaluated by Western Blotting. Results: In the rat model, the number of cells, vessels and cell morphology scores at the defect sites increased in the FGF-2 group and decreased in the FGFRI group at 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively. In the motor functional evaluation, the FGF-2 group showed earlier improvement in the BBB score and the treadmill test compared to the control and FGFRI groups. The MTS assay showed that the number of viable cells was higher in the FGF-2 group and lower in the FGFRI group than in the control. Wound closure assay showed tenocyte migration was increased in the FGF-2 group and decreased in the FGFRI group. Regarding protein expression, Tnmd, Collagen I, III, and Screlaxis-A were increased in the FGF-2 group and decreased in the FGFRI group. Conclusion: In vivo, FGF-2 promoted healing of Achilles tendon injury, and FGFRI impeded it in terms of motor function and histology. Additionally, in vitro, FGF-2 promoted the proliferation and migration of tenocytes and enhanced extracellular matrix production, while FGFRI diminished these effects. Although native FGF-2 is produced at the injured site, further administration of FGF-2 accelerated Achilles tendon injury healing, while inhibiting the FGF receptor delayed recovery in this study. Therefore, FGF- 2 is very important in Achilles tendon injury healing and may promote recovery by enhancing angiogenesis, proliferation, and extracellular matrix production of tenocytes.

Effect of blastocyst shrinkage on assisted reproductive outcomes: a retrospective cohort study describing a new morphological evaluation of blastocyst pre-vitrification and post-warming

BackgroundThe failure of frozen-thawed blastocysts to re-expand adequately within a few hours after warming has been reported to have a negative impact on assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. However, the extent to which this failure truly affects ART outcomes has not yet been presented in a manner that is easily understandable to medical practitioners and patients. This study aimed to assess the effects of blastocyst shrinkage on ART outcomes and determine a more effective morphological evaluation approach for use in clinical settings.MethodsThis retrospective observational cohort study of frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer cycles was conducted from April 2017 to March 2022. Overall, 1,331 cycles were eligible for inclusion, of which 999 were good-quality blastocysts (GQB) and 332 were non-good-quality blastocysts (non-GQB). All frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer cycles performed during the specified study period were included in the study. Exclusion criteria were established to mitigate potential sources of bias as these cycles could impact implantations. We calculated rates and age-adjusted odds ratios of implantation, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth of the re-expansion group, which showed sufficient expansion, and shrinkage group, which showed insufficient expansion. We also calculated the implantation, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth rates of the re-expansion and shrinkage groups for each morphological scoring system parameter.ResultsA reduced ART outcome was observed with use of blastocysts with shrinkage after vitrification/warming. The age-adjusted odds ratios for implantation, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth were lower in the shrinkage group than in the re-expansion group.ConclusionsThis study examined the adverse effect of blastocyst shrinkage after warming and recovery culturing on reproductive outcomes in a clinically useful manner by retrospectively examining a substantial number of frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles. The study findings can possibly reduce concerns regarding over- or under-estimation of blastocyst implantation by allowing providers and patients to refer to the data.