Defective Connective Tissue Remodeling in Smad3 Mice Leads to Accelerated Aneurysmal Growth Through Disturbed Downstream TGF-β Signaling

Aneurysm-osteoarthritis syndrome characterized by unpredictable aortic aneurysm formation, is caused by SMAD3 mutations. SMAD3 is part of the SMAD2/3/4 transcription factor, essential for TGF-β-activated transcription. Although TGF-β-related gene mutations result in aneurysms, the underlying mechanism is unknown. Here, we examined aneurysm formation and progression in Smad3^-/- animals. Smad3^-/- animals developed aortic aneurysms rapidly, resulting in premature death. Aortic wall immunohistochemistry showed no increase in extracellular matrix and collagen accumulation, nor loss of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) but instead revealed medial elastin disruption and adventitial inflammation. Remarkably, matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) were not activated in VSMCs, but rather specifically in inflammatory areas. Although Smad3^-/- aortas showed increased nuclear pSmad2 and pErk, indicating TGF-β receptor activation, downstream TGF-β-activated target genes were not upregulated. Increased pSmad2 and pErk staining in pre-aneurysmal Smad3^-/- aortas implied that aortic damage and TGF-β receptor-activated signaling precede aortic inflammation. Finally, impaired downstream TGF-β activated transcription resulted in increased Smad3^-/- VSMC proliferation. Smad3 deficiency leads to imbalanced activation of downstream genes, no activation of MMPs in VSMCs, and immune responses resulting in rapid aortic wall dilatation and rupture. Our findings uncover new possibilities for treatment of SMAD3 patients; instead of targeting TGF-β signaling, immune suppression may be more beneficial.

Histopathology of the filum terminale in children with and without tethered cord syndrome with attention to the elastic tissue within the filum

PURPOSE

To compare histologically transected fila from pediatric patients with tethered cord syndrome (TCS), with and without a low conus, with controls, focusing on collagenous and elastic tissue.

METHODS

Thirty fila from patients with TCS, including 5 where minimal cautery was used prior to filum section, were compared with fila from 27 pediatric cadavers without TCS (controls). Sections of fila were stained with H&E, Masson trichrome and Verhoeff von Gieson elastic stains, and 7 with Gordon and Sweet's reticulin stain.

RESULTS

Fila from controls showed loose fibrous connective tissue (FCT) with thin and evenly dispersed elastic fibers (EFs). Reticulin fibers (RFs) were seen in blood vessel walls and nerve twigs. Fat was identified microscopically in 2 fila. All fila from patients with TCS had dense FCT. The EFs were in normal numbers in 17, and focally or diffusely decreased in 13. All 25 patients where the fila were cauterized during resection had thick and coiled EFs. Coiling was not seen when minimal cautery was applied. RFs were seen in blood vessel walls and nerve twigs. Fat was identified in 19 patients. Findings were similar, whether the conus termination was normal or low.

CONCLUSION

The fila of all patients with TCS, whether or not the conus was low, showed abnormal FCT. EFs were decreased in 48 % of patients; however, there were thick and coiled EFs in all patients. Coiling of EFs, initially thought to be an abnormality in patients, is considered most likely to be a result of cautery (i.e., artifactual/iatrogenic coiling).

Subchondral insufficiency fracture of the knee: A recognizable associated soft tissue edema pattern and a similar distribution among men and women

OBJECTIVE

Primary: to describe the presence and pattern of soft tissue edema in subchondral insufficiency fractures of the knee (SIFK). Secondary: to investigate the gender distribution and identify factors associated with disease progression.

METHODS

MR images of 74 SIFKs in 74 patients were retrospectively reviewed for soft tissue edema presence and location, meniscal tears and extrusion and synovitis. The clinical records were reviewed for age, gender, and BMI. Follow up examinations were reviewed to assess for progression. Data were analyzed for gender distribution and for association between each imaging finding as a predictor of SIFK location and progression.

RESULTS

Soft tissue edema was present in 89% (66/74) of SIFK. It was located around the MCL in 78% (58/74), posterior to and abutting on the posterior distal femur in 68% (50/74), around to the tibia in only 18% (13/74), but when present it strongly predicted the presence of a medial tibial plateau SIFK (p=5.6×10^-12). Edema extended to the vastus medialis fascia in 51% (38/74) and vastus lateralis fascia in 24% (18/74). Gender distribution was 1:1 (males=38, females=36), most common in the 6th decade (29/74, 39%). Lesion progression showed a trend towards being more common in females (8/9, 89%) compared to males (9/16, 56%), and in patients with meniscal extrusion (≥3mm) (13/14, 93%) compared to those with no extrusion (2/7, 29%).

CONCLUSION

A recognizable soft tissue edema pattern is seen in SIFK and may have an important role in early diagnosis. Also, SIFK may affect equally males and females in the 6th decade and may progress more in females. Meniscal extrusion may predispose to disease progression.

Preliminary Evaluation of Platelet Rich Fibrin-Mediated Tissue Repair in Immature Canine Pulpless Teeth

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in the regenerative therapy of immature canine permanent teeth.

METHODS

Eight immature premolars of beagle dogs were pulp extracted and cleaned with irrigation, then divided into two groups of empty root canals and those filled with a PRF clot. All of the eight premolars were sealed with mineral trioxide aggregate and glass ionomer cement. Two premolars were left naturally grown as a positive control. The root development was assessed radiographically and histologically after 12 weeks.

RESULTS

The radiological findings showed greater increases in the thickness of lateral dentinal wall in the PRF group than in the vacant group. Histologically, dental-associated mineral tissue, connective tissue, and bone-like mineral tissue grew into the root canals independent of PRF clot use. The PRF was able to increase the thickness of dental-associated mineral tissue. However, the vital tissue differed from the pulp dentin complex.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated the feasibility of using PRF-mediated regenerative therapy in pulpless immature teeth for improving tissue repair.

Particulate Silicone for Vocal Fold Augmentation: Morphometric Evaluation in a Rabbit Model

To study the augmentation of the paralyzed vocal fold in response to the injection of particulate plastics in a rabbit model, we performed a prospective, experimental, and controlled study in 45 New Zealand rabbits with surgical vocal fold paralysis. We compared a control group (acute unilateral recurrent nerve section) with a group that underwent polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) injection and with another group that underwent polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) injection. Equal volumes of implant material were injected. The animals were killed either 6 weeks or 6 months after intervention and compared by histomorphology using a digital measuring system. The injection sites showed a substantial foreign body giant cell reaction against the PDMS and PTFE, surrounded by a light, fibrous stroma. No differences in the frequency of displacement or disaggregation of implants were observed. No extrusion to the laryngeal lumen, signs of migration outside the larynx, or malignant changes were seen. No differences were found in the length of the vocal fold between the PDMS group and the PTFE group. The vocal fold was thicker in the PDMS group than in the PTFE group, but a statistically significant difference was found only for the anterior and middle thirds at 6 weeks. In the PDMS sample, the thicknesses were similar in the 6-week and 6-month subgroups. The group with injection of PDMS yielded histologic images compatible with greater and more stable medialization than did the group with injection of PTFE.

Transforming Growth Factor-β Messenger RNA and Protein in Murine Colitis

Using a CD4+ T-cell-transplanted SCID mouse model of colitis, we have analyzed TGF-β transcription and translation in advanced disease. By in situ hybridization, the epithelium of both control and inflamed tissues transcribed TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 mRNAs, but both were expressed significantly farther along the crypt axis in disease. Control lamina propria cells transcribed little TGF-β1 or TGF-β3 mRNA, but in inflamed tissues many cells expressed mRNA for both isoforms. No TGF-β2 message was detected in either control or inflamed tissues. Immunohistochemistry for latent and active TGF-β1 showed that all cells produced perinuclear latent TGF-β1. The epithelial cell basal latent protein resulted in only low levels of subepithelial active protein, which co-localized with collagen IV and laminin in diseased and control tissue. Infiltrating cells expressed very low levels of active TGF-β. By ELISA, very low levels (0–69 pg/mg) of soluble total or active TGF-β were detected in hypotonic tissue lysates. TGF-β1 and TGF-β3 are produced by SCID mouse colon and transcription is increased in the colitis caused by transplantation of CD4+ T-cells, but this does not result in high levels of soluble active protein. Low levels of active TGF-β may be a factor contributing to unresolved inflammation.

Alternatively activated macrophages determine repair of the infarcted adult murine heart

Alternatively activated (also known as M2) macrophages are involved in the repair of various types of organs. However, the contribution of M2 macrophages to cardiac repair after myocardial infarction (MI) remains to be fully characterized. Here, we identified CD206+F4/80+CD11b+ M2-like macrophages in the murine heart and demonstrated that this cell population predominantly increases in the infarct area and exhibits strengthened reparative abilities after MI. We evaluated mice lacking the kinase TRIB1 (Trib1-/-), which exhibit a selective depletion of M2 macrophages after MI. Compared with control animals, Trib1-/- mice had a catastrophic prognosis, with frequent cardiac rupture, as the result of markedly reduced collagen fibril formation in the infarct area due to impaired fibroblast activation. The decreased tissue repair observed in Trib1-/- mice was entirely rescued by an external supply of M2-like macrophages. Furthermore, IL-1α and osteopontin were suggested to be mediators of M2-like macrophage-induced fibroblast activation. In addition, IL-4 administration achieved a targeted increase in the number of M2-like macrophages and enhanced the post-MI prognosis of WT mice, corresponding with amplified fibroblast activation and formation of more supportive fibrous tissues in the infarcts. Together, these data demonstrate that M2-like macrophages critically determine the repair of infarcted adult murine heart by regulating fibroblast activation and suggest that IL-4 is a potential biological drug for treating MI.

Augmentation of the hard palate thin masticatory mucosa in the potential connective tissue donor sites using two collagen materials-Clinical and histological comparison

BACKGROUND

Due to the similarity of keratinized gingival and palatal mucosa the latter can pose as a potential donor site for gingival recession coverage. However, its availability is restricted and a thin transplant bears the risk of being rejected. The aim of the present study was to compare the clinical and histological results of thin palatal mucosa augmentation, using lyophilized Biokol^® xenogenous collagen sponge and a suspension of xenogenous Gel 0^® pure collagen with non-augmented tissue from the same patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten patients simultaneously underwent bilateral augmentation procedures using Biokol^® and Gel 0^® collagen material. The donor sites were augmented 8 weeks prior to the harvesting of the connective tissue graft (CTG) for the gingival recession coverage procedures. Prior to the implantation of the collagen material and during the course of harvesting the augmented CTG, tissue specimens were taken for histological examination. Prior to the commencement of the study and after it, the parameters of palatal gingival thickness at 4mm (PGT1), and at 8mm apical to the gingival margin (PGT2) around the teeth neighboring the operating fields were determined.

RESULTS

In both groups the palatal mucosa had thickened significantly in both measuring sites. An intergroup comparison revealed greater thickening of the masticatory mucosa in the Biokol^® group at both measuring points. The histological image of the grafts, obtained from sites augmented using both test methods, revealed a typical pattern of mature fibrous connective tissue. No epithelial cells were found.

CONCLUSION

Augmentation of thin masticatory mucosa using Biokol^® or Gel 0^® collagen materials resulted in a significant thickening of the mucosa, which could be demonstrated to be greater in the first group.

Manual therapy as an effective treatment for fibrosis in a rat model of upper extremity overuse injury

Key clinical features of carpal tunnel syndrome and other types of cumulative trauma disorders of the hand and wrist include pain and functional disabilities. Mechanistic details remain under investigation but may involve tissue inflammation and/or fibrosis. We examined the effectiveness of modeled manual therapy (MMT) as a treatment for sensorimotor behavior declines and increased fibrogenic processes occurring in forearm tissues of rats performing a high repetition high force (HRHF) reaching and grasping task for 12 weeks. Young adult, female rats were examined: food restricted control rats (FRC, n=12); rats that were trained for 6 weeks before performing the HRHF task for 12 weeks with no treatment (HRHF-CON, n=11); and HRHF task rats received modeled manual therapy (HRHF-MMT, n=5) for 5 days/week for the duration of the 12-week of task. Rats receiving the MMT expressed fewer discomfort-related behaviors, and performed progressively better in the HRHF task. Grip strength, while decreased after training, improved following MMT. Fibrotic nerve and connective tissue changes (increased collagen and TGF-β1 deposition) present in 12-week HRHF-CON rats were significantly decreased in 12-week HRHF-MMT rats. These observations support the investigation of manual therapy as a preventative for repetitive motion disorders.

[THE ROLE OF TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-B IN IMMUNOPATHOGENESIS OF DISEASES OF CONNECTIVE TISSUE]

The recent studies of molecular physiology of fibrillin and pathophysiology of inherent disorders of structure and function of connective tissue such as dissection and aneurysm of aorta, myxomatously altered cusps and prolapses of mitral valve, syndrome of hyper-mobility of joints, demonstrated that important role in development of these malformations play alterations of transfer of signals by growth factors and matrix cellular interaction. These conditions under manifesting Marfan's syndrome can be a consequence of anomalies of fibrillin-1 which deficiency unbrakes process of activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ). The involvement of TGFβ in pathogenesis of Marfan's syndrome permits consider antagonists of angiotensin-transforming enzymes as potential pharmaceuticals in therapy of this disease. The article presents analysis of publications' data related to this problem.

Peripheral Tumor with Osteodentin and Cementum-like Material in an Infant: Odontogenic Hamartoma or Odontoma?

The purpose of this report is to describe a peripheral tumor on the mandibular alveolar ridge of a seven-month-old Caucasian boy, consisting of ectomesencymal odontogenic tissues, in particular osteodentin and cementum-like material, in a cellular or loose vascular connective tissue stroma. This case may be considered either a peripheral odontogenic hamartoma or a peripheral odontoma.

Study of oral cavity lesions by infrared spectroscopy

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy is considered a useful tool in the biomedical field, for analysing in situ and at cellular level, very small areas of tissues and cells, with minimal sample preparation and without the use of stains or probes. This spectroscopic technique has been successfully applied to analyse biological samples from patients affected by tumoral pathologies, with particular attention to oral cavity lesions. In this study, we describe the application of FTIR microspectroscopy to characterize and discriminate the most recurrent benign and malignant diseases of oral cavity compartment. Infrared maps were acquired on tissues affected by the following pathologies: squamous cell carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma, squamous dysplasia, keratocystic odontogenic tumor, radicular cyst, residual cyst, unicystic ameloblastoma, and ameloblastic fibroma, together with healthy tissue samples (used as control group). The epithelial and connective components of all samples were distinguished and submitted to multivariate analysis. The results were in agreement with histological suggestions.

Guided Gingival Growth: Improving Aesthetics During Second-Stage Surgery

GGG is a conservative, efficient, and relatively straightforward treatment for mild soft-tissue deficits. When applied within its limitations, it may be a valuable tool for aesthetic refinement around dental implants.

Substance P and Chronic Pain in Patients with Chronic Inflammation of Connective Tissue

Objective

Evidence suggests that substance P (SP) is involved in chronic joint inflammation, such as the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The goal of the research was to evaluate the correlation between chronic pain and changes in the SP level in patients with chronic inflammation of the connective tissue.

Methods

Patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis were enrolled in this study. The relationship between chronic pain intensity and the serum SP concentration was evaluated in these groups of patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Results

The results showed a positive correlation between the serum SP concentrations and chronic pain intensity.

Conclusions

1. The SP serum concentration was significantly different between the groups of patients with OA and RA. 2. There was a positive correlation between the serum SP concentration and chronic pain intensity in OA and RA patients.

[THE MANIFESTATIONS OF THE PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES OF THE INTERNAL ORGANS IN PATIENTS WITH DISEASES OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT]

The results of a survey of 248 patients (mean age--26.0 years +/- 7.4 years), from which 222 patients (mean age--26.3 years +/- 8.0 years) with diseases of temporomandibular joint. Identified and visceral connection between the local changes in the iris, the state of the body's connective tissue, the presence of visceral disease (cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary system), diseases of the temporomandibular joints. Key words: temporomandibular joint, connective tissue, iris, iridodiagnostic, internal organs, concomitant diseases, topical. diagnostics.

[EFFICIENCY OF COCARNIT IN COMPLEX THERAPY OF PATIENTS WITH SYSTEM DISEASES OF CONNECTING FABRIC WITH DEFEAT OF MYOCARDIUM AND DISPLAYS OF CARDIAC INSUFFICIENCY]

In clinical trial included 41 patient with clinic-instrumental dates, which said about myocardium dysfunction and system diseases of connecting fabric and displays of CCI I-III of functional class (FC). Including of complex metabolic drug Cocarnit in standard therapy of systemdiseases of connecting fabric was instrumental in more expressed clinical improvement of patientsclinical dates in 15 days of supervision: a weakness diminished on 66.67%, shortbreathing at the insignificant physical loading--on 23.81%, at the ordinary physical loading--on 47.62%, at the megascopic physical loading--on 19.05%, pain in area of heart--on 42.85%, there are interruptions in-process heart--on 28.57%, oedematousness of shins--on 57.14%, sense of numbness, burning, sensitiveness to cold of extremities--on 57.14%. Quantity of patients with III FC diminished on 5 (23.81%), in a control group--on 2 (10%). It implementation of test with the 6-minute walking more expressed increase of the overcame distance is set for the patients of basicgroup--on 15.46% as compared to a control group--on 7.01%. Cocarnit patients estimatedpositively; side effects with subsequent abolition of drug, were not. Laboratory indexes (AlAT, AsAT, bilirubin, kreatinine, haemoglobin) at the end of trial did not change considerably, that confirmed good bearableness of drug.

Does Laser Surgery Interfere with Optical Nerve Identification in Maxillofacial Hard and Soft Tissue?--An Experimental Ex Vivo Study

The protection of sensitive structures (e.g., nerves) from iatrogenic damage is of major importance when performing laser surgical procedures. Especially in the head and neck area both function and esthetics can be affected to a great extent. Despite its many benefits, the surgical utilization of a laser is therefore still limited to superficial tissue ablation. A remote feedback system which guides the laser in a tissue-specific way would provide a remedy. In this context, it has been shown that nerval structures can be specifically recognized by their optical diffuse reflectance spectra both before and after laser ablation. However, for a translation of these findings to the actual laser ablation process, a nerve protection within the laser pulse is of utmost significance. Thus, it was the aim of the study to evaluate, if the process of Er:YAG laser surgery--which comes with spray water cooling, angulation of the probe (60°) and optical process emissions--interferes with optical tissue differentiation. For the first time, no stable conditions but the ongoing process of laser tissue ablation was examined. Therefore, six different tissue types (nerve, skin, muscle, fat, cortical and cancellous bone) were acquired from 15 pig heads. Measurements were performed during Er:YAG laser ablation. Diffuse reflectance spectra (4500, wavelength range: 350-650 nm) where acquired. Principal component analysis (PCA) and quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA) were calculated for classification purposes. The clinical highly relevant differentiation between nerve and bone was performed correctly with an AUC of 95.3% (cortial bone) respectively 92.4% (cancellous bone). The identification of nerve tissue against the biological very similar fat tissue yielded good results with an AUC value of 83.4% (sensitivity: 72.3%, specificity: of 82.3%). This clearly demonstrates that nerve identification by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy works reliably in the ongoing process of laser ablation in spite of the laser beam, spray water cooling and the tissue alterations entailed by tissue laser ablation. This is an essential step towards a clinical utilization.

Primordial Odontogenic Tumor: Report of a Case

Primordial odontogenic tumor (POT) was first described in 2014. It typically presents in the posterior mandible of a child or adolescent as a "dentigerous cyst-like" well-circumscribed radiolucency associated with an unerupted molar. POT consists of an ellipsoidal mass of dental papilla-like myxoid connective tissue entirely enveloped in a delicate membrane of ameloblastic epithelium. It shows features of a developing tooth with a huge dental papilla, and because it is devoid of dental hard tissue, it could be regarded a soft tissue odontoma. The lesion histologically mimics early (primordial) stages of tooth development. This report describes a case of POT and POT-like proliferations in an unrelated complex odontoma.

Plasma Cell Gingivitis: An Occasional Case Report

Plasma cell gingivitis, an infrequently observed oral condition, has been clinically characterized by diffuse gingival enlargement, erythema and sometimes desquamation. These lesions are usually asymptomatic, but invariably the patient will complain of a burning sensation in the gingiva and bleeding from the mouth. The diagnosis requires hematological screening in addition to clinical and histopathological examinations. This case report outlines one such case of plasma cell gingivitis in a 15-year-old female caused by use of an herbal, homemade toothpowder. The case presented here highlights the adverse effects and irrational use of herbal agents in dentifrices. At the same time, it emphasizes the need for comprehensive history taking, careful clinical examination and appropriate diagnostic tests in order to arrive at a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan for gingival conditions that are refractory to conventional therapy and to exclude certain malignancies and oral manifestations of systemic diseases.

Exuberant Vasculoconnective Component in Mediastinal Mixed Germ Cell Tumors

We aimed to evaluate the histologic components of primary mediastinal mixed germ cell tumors. A total of 221 patients diagnosed with a mediastinal germ cell tumor (GCT) were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, 14 patients underwent surgical resection after chemotherapy and 8 patients were diagnosed with mixed GCT, who were then selected for further evaluation. Clinical chart review and histologic review of biopsy and surgical specimens of 8 patients were performed. All 8 patients were young males and showed a mature teratoma or a mature teratoma with a focal immature teratoma in the resected specimens. Serum alpha-feto protein was variably elevated. Seven patients experienced an increase in tumor size after the chemotherapy. In 5 patients, a variable amount of vasculoconnective tissue was found along with the mature teratoma occupying average 66.3% of resected mass, and 3 of them showed an identical vasculoconnective component on biopsy before chemotherapy. We suggest that vasculoconnective tissue might be the intrinsic component of primary mediastinal mixed GCT. When vasculoconnective tissue is obtained on small biopsy of an anterior mediastinal mass of a young male, the possibility of underlying mixed GCT should be considered and further clinical work up should be performed.

Histological assessment of cellular changes in postmortem gingival specimens for estimation of time since death

Estimating the time after death is an important aspect of the role of a forensic expert. After death, the body undergoes substantial changes in its chemical and physical composition which can prove useful in providing an indication of the post-mortem interval. The most accurate estimate of the time of death is best achieved early in the post-mortem interval before the many environmental variables are able to affect the result. Whilst dependence on macroscopic observations was the foundation of the past practice, the application of histological techniques is proving to be an increasingly valuable tool in forensic research. The present study was conducted to evaluate the histologic post-mortem changes that take place in human gingival tissues and to correlate these changes with the time interval after death. Thirty one samples of post-mortem human gingival tissues were obtained from a pool of decedents at varied post-mortem intervals (0-8 hrs, 8-16 hrs, 16-24 hrs). Ante-mortem samples of gingival tissues for comparison were obtained from patients undergoing crown lengthening procedure. Histological changes in the epithelium (cytoplasmic and nuclear) and connective tissue were assessed. The initial epithelial changes observed were homogenization and eosinophilia while cytoplasmic vacuolation and other alterations, including shredding of the epithelium, ballooning, loss of nuclei and suprabasilar split were noticed in late post-mortem interval (16-24 hrs). Nuclear changes such as vacuolation, karyorrhexis, pyknosis and karyolysis became increasingly apparent with lengthening post-mortem intervals. Homogenizations of collagen and fibroblast vacuolation were also observed. To conclude; the initiation of decomposition at cellular level appeared within 24 hours of death and other features of decomposition were observed subsequently. Against this background, histological changes in the gingival tissues may be useful in estimating the time of death in the early post-mortem period.

Maxillary sinus floor augmentation using biphasic calcium phosphate: a histologic and histomorphometric study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to analyze the histologic quality and histomorphometric quantity of newly formed bone and the biologic properties after maxillary sinus floor augmentation with biphasic tricalcium phosphate (BCP) prior to dental implant placement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The selected alloplastic bone substitute, a blend of 60% hydroxyapatite and 40% β-tricalcium phosphate, was placed into the sinus cavity and covered with a bioresorbable membrane. Ten bone samples were harvested from the grafted sinuses of eight patients at 6 months postsurgery for histologic and histomorphometric analysis during implant placement at stage-two surgery.

RESULTS

Histologic analysis of the 10 biopsy specimens showed remaining BCP particles in intimate contact with the newly formed bone. Several areas of bone substitute resorption and new bone remodeling were observed. The mean composition of the bone samples harvested from the grafted sinuses was 26.1% ± 6.3% newly formed bone, 29.3% ± 9.1% remaining BCP particles, and 44.7% ± 7.7% connective tissue/bone marrow.

CONCLUSION

BCP biomaterial was osteoconductive and biocompatible. This biomaterial scaffold promoted the formation of new bone, which was in intimate contact with the remaining bone substitute particles. Within the limits of this study, maxillary sinus floor augmentation using BCP bone substitute is a reliable procedure for dental implant placement.

Pathological changes in the subsynovial connective tissue increase with self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms

BACKGROUND

Fibrosis and thickening of the subysnovial connective tissue are the most common pathological findings in carpal tunnel syndrome. The relationship between subsynovial connective tissue characteristics and self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms was assessed.

METHODS

Symptoms were characterized using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and Katz hand diagram in twenty-two participants (11 with symptoms, 11 with no symptoms). Using ultrasound, the thickness of the subsynovial connective tissue was measured using a thickness ratio (subsynovial thickness/tendon thickness) and gliding function was assessed using a shear strain index ((Displacement(tendon)-Displacement(subsynovial))/Displacement(tendon)x 100). For gliding function, participants performed 10 repeated flexion-extension cycles of the middle finger at a rate of one cycle per second.

FINDINGS

Participants with symptoms had a 38.5% greater thickness ratio and 39.2% greater shear strain index compared to participants without symptoms (p<0.05).

INTERPRETATION

Ultrasound detected differences the SSCT in symptomatic group that was characterized by low self-reported symptom severity scores. This study found ultrasound useful for measuring structural and functional changes in the SSCT that could provide insight in the early pathophysiology associated with carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

Molecular and Functional Characterization of Three Different Postzygotic Mutations in PIK3CA-Related Overgrowth Spectrum (PROS) Patients: Effects on PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling and Sensitivity to PIK3 Inhibitors

Background

PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS) include a group of disorders that affect only the terminal portion of a limb, such as type I macrodactyly, and conditions like fibroadipose overgrowth (FAO), megalencephaly-capillary malformation (MCAP) syndrome, congenital lipomatous asymmetric overgrowth of the trunk, lymphatic, capillary, venous, and combined-type vascular malformations, epidermal nevi, skeletal and spinal anomalies (CLOVES) syndrome and Hemihyperplasia Multiple Lipomatosis (HHML). Heterozygous postzygotic PIK3CA mutations are frequently identified in these syndromes, while timing and tissue specificity of the mutational event are likely responsible for the extreme phenotypic variability observed.

Methods

We carried out a combination of Sanger sequencing and targeted deep sequencing of genes involved in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in three patients (1 MCAP and 2 FAO) to identify causative mutations, and performed immunoblot analyses to assay the phosphorylation status of AKT and P70S6K in affected dermal fibroblasts. In addition, we evaluated their ability to grow in the absence of serum and their response to the PI3K inhibitors wortmannin and LY294002 in vitro.

Results and Conclusion

Our data indicate that patients’ cells showed constitutive activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Of note, PI3K pharmacological blockade resulted in a significant reduction of the proliferation rate in culture, suggesting that inhibition of PI3K might prove beneficial in future therapies for PROS patients.

The role of the interstitium of the renal cortex in renal disease

Morphometrical investigations (point-counting method) showed that in different inflammatory (endocapillary -- acute -- GN, mesangioproliferative GN, membranoproliferative GN) glomerulonephritides and in non-inflammatory glomerular diseases (perireticular amyloidosis), there are statistically significant correlation between serum creatine concentrations at the time of biopsy and the enlargement of the cortical interstitium by fibrosis. Similar results were obtained in investigating different grades of benign nephrosclerosis with transition into secondary malignant nephrosclerosis conditioned by hypertension and in chronic diffuse sclerosing interstitial nephritides of different etiologies. As hypothesis, we assume that a narrowing of the postglomerular vessel network by interstitial fibrosis take place. This could lead to an increase resistance of the renal cortical blood flow. In spite of an elevated effective filtration pressure, the slowing of the glomerular blood flow may lead to the reduction of GRF and to an increase of the serum creatinine concentration. Additionally, in the case of interstitial fibrosis the tubules look atrophied. This could be the consequence of the reduced GFR as a sign of inactivity. On the other hand, tubular atrophy could result from malnutrition in the case of interstitial fibrosis. The resorptive capacity of these atrophied-looking tubules could be lowered and the GFR could be diminished by the so-called Thurau mechanism.

Periodontal considerations in veneer cases

Porcelain veneers are a minimally invasive technique to enhance patients' smiles. A crucial component in these cases is the supporting periodontal apparatus and its interaction with the restorations. This article addresses basic concepts such as biologic width, altered eruption patterns, appropriate gingival contouring and smile design to give practitioners the tools to diagnose, evaluate and treat cases successfully and predictably.

[Morphogenesis of connective tissue in patients with hydronephrosis caused by stricture of ureteric-pelvic segment of various etiology]

In patients, suffering hydronephrosis stages II-III, caused by the ureteric-pelvic segment (UPS) obstruction due to inborn failures of urinary system, the collagen types I and III ratio reduction, and in acquired obstruction--its enhancement, are noted in interstitium, renal parenchyma vessels and the UPS walls. While obstruction in patients due to inborn failures in vascular basal membranes a deficiency of collagen type IV and appearance of nontypical for vascular basal membranes intersticial collagen type Il are observed. In the acquired UPS, obstruction the, enhancement of content of collagen type IV is revealed only. These disorders are mostly pronounced in patients with the disease recurrence. There was proposed diagnostic coefficient of ratio between collagens types I and III in patients, suffering hydronephrosis, caused by obstruction of various etiology. In hydronephrosis, caused by the UPS stricture, the cytokines disbalance occurs, impacting processes of collagen formation.

In-vivo nonlinear optical microscopy (NLOM) of epithelial-connective tissue interface (ECTI) reveals quantitative measures of neoplasia in hamster oral mucosa

The epithelial-connective tissue interface (ECTI) plays an integral role in epithelial neoplasia, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This interface undergoes significant alterations due to hyperproliferating epithelium that supports the transformation of normal epithelium to precancers and cancer. We present a method based on nonlinear optical microscopy to directly assess the ECTI and quantify dysplastic alterations using a hamster model for oral carcinogenesis. Neoplastic and non-neoplastic normal mucosa were imaged in-vivo by both multiphoton autofluorescence microscopy (MPAM) and second harmonic generation microscopy (SHGM) to obtain cross-sectional reconstructions of the oral epithelium and lamina propria. Imaged sites were biopsied and processed for histopathological grading and measurement of ECTI parameters. An ECTI shape parameter was calculated based on deviation from the linear geometry (ΔLinearity) seen in normal mucosa was measured using MPAM-SHGM and histology. The ECTI was readily visible in MPAM-SHGM and quantitative shape analysis showed ECTI deformation in dysplasia but not in normal mucosa. ΔLinearity was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in dysplasia (0.41±0.24) than normal (0.11±0.04) as measured in MPAM-SHGM and results were confirmed in histology which showed similar trends in ΔLinearity. Increase in ΔLinearity was also statistically significant for different grades of dysplasia. In-vivo ΔLinearity measurement alone from microscopy discriminated dysplasia from normal tissue with 87.9% sensitivity and 97.6% specificity, while calculations from histology provided 96.4% sensitivity and 85.7% specificity. Among other quantifiable architectural changes, a progressive statistically significant increase in epithelial thickness was seen with increasing grade of dysplasia. MPAM-SHGM provides new noninvasive ways for direct characterization of ECTI which may be used in preclinical studies to investigate the role of this interface in early transformation. Further development of the method may also lead to new diagnostic approaches to differentiate non-neoplastic tissue from precancers and neoplasia, possibly with other cellular and layer based indicators of abnormality.

Ossifying Fibroma in a Patient With Oculocerebrocutaneous (Delleman) Syndrome

Delleman syndrome is a rare neurocutaneous disorder characterized by congenital anomalies affecting the eye, skin, and central nervous system. This disorder was first raised as a distinct syndromic entity by Delleman and Oorthuys in 1981 under the term "oculocerebrocutaneous syndrome" (OCCS). Since then, fewer than 40 cases have been reported. All cases have been sporadic, and no patient with an abnormal karyotype has been reported. Although the etiology is still unknown, several theories have been advanced. Most of the tissues affected by OCCS are neural crest derivatives, with a striking homogeneity of the tissues and regions involved. It is this recurring craniofacial pattern of OCCS that lends support to the hypothesis that the most probable pathogenesis is a neurocristopathy that interferes with craniofacial morphogenesis. Ossifying fibroma is a destructive, potentially deforming, benign tumor that can occur almost anywhere in the facial skeletion. Some cases of ossifying fibroma have occurred in patientswith underlying neurocutaneous syndromes such as neurofibromatosis, Sturge-Weber syndrome, and encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis (ECCL). We report a patient with OCCS who presented with an ossifying fibroma. This has not been reported previously and is noteworthy in that it might be part of a wider phenotypic spectrum of the less common manifestations associated with OCCS.

[Reparative regeneration of connective tissue structures of mammals under antioxidant therapy conditions]

The influence of administration of the antioxidant complexes consisting of nonenzymatic antioxidants (alpha-tocopherol acetate preparation) and enzymatic antioxidants (ceruloplasmin) has been studied in rabbits with experimental arthritis. The introduction of alpha-tocopherol acetate (at a daily dose of 4 mg) improved metabolic processes in the organism (decreased in the rate of erythrocyte precipitation, total leukocytes and their stub and segmental forms; increased in erythrocyte count; reduced the glycosaminoglycan content as determined from uronic acid and hexose level; decreased ceruloplasmin activity and malonic dialdehyde level ion blood serum, all at p < 0.05), thus favoring reduction in the total activity of the inflammatory process as judged from hematological and biochemical data. Intra-articular introduction of ceruloplasmin (1.5 mg/kg, once per week) positively influenced the state of joint structures in damaged knee joints of the animals: decreased the activity of ceruloplasmin (from 5.28 ± 0.06 to 3.94 ± 0.01 AU), and malonic dialdehyde level (0.18 ± 0.02 to 0.08 ± 0.01 μM) in the articular fluid (all at p < 0.05). These effects are probably related to the elimination of inefficiency of the antioxidant system in the synovial medium, thus preventing inflammatory destruction of articular tissues, hindering the development of pannus, and assisting the activation of reparative regeneration of connective tissue structures.

[Features of the hormonal status in patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction and class II malocclusion]

The article presents data on androgen levels in female patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction of varying degree and class II malocclusion. The study revealed significant correlation between degenerative and inflammatory TMJ changes and androgens level in patients with stigmas of connective tissue dysplasia (p<0.05), probably due to indirect proinflammatory action of androgens as they stimulate inflammatory mediators expression.

Vibrational mapping of sinonasal lesions by Fourier transform infrared imaging spectroscopy

Fourier transform infrared imaging (FTIRI) is a powerful tool for analyzing biochemical changes in tumoral tissues. The head and neck region is characterized by a great variety of lesions, with different degrees of malignancy, which are often difficult to diagnose. Schneiderian papillomas are sinonasal benign neoplasms arising from the Schneiderian mucosa; they can evolve into malignant tumoral lesions (squamous cell carcinoma). In addition, they can sometimes be confused with the more common inflammatory polyps. Therefore, an early and definitive diagnosis of this pathology is mandatory. Progressing in our research on the study of oral cavity lesions, 15 sections consisting of inflammatory sinonasal polyps, benign Schneiderian papillomas, and sinonasal undifferentiated carcinomas were analyzed using FTIRI. To allow a rigorous description of these pathologies and to gain objective diagnosis, the epithelial layer and the adjacent connective tissue of each section were separately investigated by following a multivariate analysis approach. According to the nature of the lesion, interesting modifications were detected in the average spectra of the different tissue components, above all in the lipid and protein patterns. Specific band-area ratios acting as spectral markers of the different pathologies were also highlighted.

Microscopic and ultrastructural modifications of postmenopausal atrophic vaginal mucosa after fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment

Vaginal atrophy occurring during menopause is closely related to the dramatic decrease in ovarian estrogens due to the loss of follicular activity. Particularly, significant changes occur in the structure of the vaginal mucosa, with consequent impairment of many physiological functions. In this study, carried out on bioptic vaginal mucosa samples from postmenopausal, nonestrogenized women, we present microscopic and ultrastructural modifications of vaginal mucosa following fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment. We observed the restoration of the vaginal thick squamous stratified epithelium with a significant storage of glycogen in the epithelial cells and a high degree of glycogen-rich shedding cells at the epithelial surface. Moreover, in the connective tissue constituting the lamina propria, active fibroblasts synthesized new components of the extracellular matrix including collagen and ground substance (extrafibrillar matrix) molecules. Differently from atrophic mucosa, newly-formed papillae of connective tissue indented in the epithelium and typical blood capillaries penetrating inside the papillae, were also observed. Our morphological findings support the effectiveness of fractional CO2 laser application for the restoration of vaginal mucosa structure and related physiological trophism. These findings clearly coupled with striking clinical relief from symptoms suffered by the patients before treatment.

[ROLE OF FACTORS OF THE ENVIRONMENT OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN THE FORMATION OF THE DYSPLASIA OF THE CONNECTIVE TISSUE IN TEENAGE YEARS]

Negative trends of indices of the incidence in children and teenagers in the Russian Federation are caused by essential changes in the system of training and medical care of school students. In cases of connective tissue dysplasia (CTD) when the gene defect is remains to be unascertained, there is a great role of environmental factors contributing to the implementation of pathology and hygienic measures of the prevention of complications. There was performed the hygienic assessment of sanitary-epidemiologic welfare (SEW) of the educational institutions (EI) of the city of Omsk (n = 76), including the study of environmental factors, health and performance of adolescents. For the correction priority factors for SEW were "medical care", "mode and organization of the educational-training process", "conditions and organization of nutrition", "conditions and organization of physical education." There are determined the most important for the occurrence of CTD indices lifestyle factors and "indicators" of the risk for the progression of pathological processes in adolescents.

[IN VIVO EVALUATION OF POLYCAPROLACTONE-HYDROXYAPATITE SCAFFOLD BIOCOMPATIBILITY]

Biocompatibility is one of the main and very important properties for scaffolds. The aim of the present study was to investigate cells population dynamics in vivo in the process of original polycaprolactone-hydroxyapatite scaffold colonization, as well as tissue reactions to the implantation to assess the biocompatibility of the matrix. It has been found that tissue reactive changes in white rats subside completely up to the 21st day after subcutaneous polycaprolactone-hydroxyapatite scaffold implantation. Matrix was actively colonized by connective tissue cells in the period from the 7th to the 21st day of the experiment. However, intensive scaffold vascularization started from the 14th day after implantation. These findings suggest a high degree of the polycaprolactone-hydroxyapatite scaffold biocompatiblilitye.