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Plessis AMD, Wessels Q, Schoor AV, Keough N. Congenital malformations in the vertebral column: associations and possible embryologic origins. Anat Cell Biol 2022; 55:399-405. [PMID: 36071544 PMCID: PMC9747346 DOI: 10.5115/acb.22.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cases of associations between random spinal congenital defects have previously been reported, yet several questions remain unanswered. Firstly, why are associations between what seems to be random combinations of vertebral malformations observed? Secondly, is there a common event or pattern that connects the associated defects? Therefore, this study aimed to identify congenital defects in the vertebral column and also to determine whether any associations, if present, between vertebral malformations exist. This article consequently discusses the possible embryological disruptions that may lead to the formation of various defects in the vertebral column. A random skeletal sample (n=187) was selected from the Pretoria Bone Collection housed in the Department of Anatomy, University of Pretoria (Ethics 678/2018). The sample was evaluated to determine the frequencies of spinal congenital defects in each set of remains. Identifiable congenital malformations were observed in 48.1% (n=90/187) of the sample. The results demonstrated a high probability of association between the different defects observed in the vertebral column. Findings are of value as they provide a reasonable explanation to why seemingly random cases of associations have been reported by several authors. This study is clinically relevant as severe spinal defects have been shown to have high morbidity in patients and mortality in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneli M. Du Plessis
- Department of Anatomy, Health Science Campus, University of Pretoria, South Africa,Department Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia,Corresponding author: Anneli M. Du Plessis, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Namibia, Windhoek 9000, Namibia, E-mail: /
| | - Quenton Wessels
- Department Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Albert Van Schoor
- Department of Anatomy, Health Science Campus, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Natalie Keough
- Department of Anatomy, Health Science Campus, University of Pretoria, South Africa,Department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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2
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Prevalence of cervical ribs and elongated transverse processes in Omani population: a computed tomography-based study. SURGICAL AND RADIOLOGIC ANATOMY : SRA 2022; 44:1361-1366. [PMID: 36190533 DOI: 10.1007/s00276-022-03028-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cervical ribs are the supernumerary ribs that usually arise from the seventh cervical vertebra. Ethnic and geographical variations in cervical ribs and elongated transverse processes have been reported. Therefore, we aimed to study the prevalence of cervical ribs and elongated transverse processes and morphometry of cervical ribs in Omani subjects using computed tomography (CT). METHODS A total of 1165 consecutive patients' CT scans of the cervical spine who had visited the tertiary care hospital from January 2016 to December 2020 were included in the study. The CT scans were screened for cervical ribs and elongated C7 transverse processes. Fisher's exact test was used to determine the gender influence. RESULTS Cervical ribs were identified in 0.94% of patients with a male-to-female ratio of 0.37:1. Most cervical ribs were unilateral (54%). The elongated C7 transverse process was identified in 18.45% of patients, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.36:1. Female patients are more likely to have cervical ribs (effect size = 5.98, 95% CI = 1.58-22.6, p = 0.005) than male patients. In contrast, the elongated C7 transverse process is more frequent in males (effect size = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.34-2.47, p < 0.001). The length and width of the cervical ribs are presented. CONCLUSION The prevalence of cervical ribs in Omani subjects is close to that of accepted prevalence worldwide. However, the elongated C7 transverse process prevalence is comparatively high and close to the Saudi population.
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3
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Rojas CV, Olivares JI, Tutor PM, Sánchez M, Alemán Aguilera I. Ontogeny of morphological variations in the vertebral column: Prevalence and bony variability in young Spanish children. Ann Anat 2022; 240:151888. [PMID: 35032564 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2022.151888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Pre- and postnatal development and variability in discrete vertebral traits have been poorly described in embryonic studies. Numerous authors have reported that these variations are observable only from adolescence; scientific publications on the vertebrae of fetuses and infants are scarce. Thus, the aims of this study were to (1) describe the ontogeny and variability of anatomical variations in the vertebral column of a Spanish infant population and (2) analyze the frequency and relationship between sex, age, and intertrait variables. A total of 4728 vertebrae from 197 skeletons were studied. The age at death ranged from 22 intrauterine weeks to 8 years. Twenty morphological traits related to vertebral column development were analyzed. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed, and the chi-square test was used to measure the relationship between sex, age, and intertrait variables. We observed that 88.32% of skeletons expressed discrete traits along the spine. In fetuses, the double transverse foramen and unclosed transverse process of the axis were the most prevalent traits. In infants older than one year, the appearance of the L5 cleft neural arch, unclosed transverse process of the atlas, and craniocaudal shifts were frequent. A significant result was found between sex and the unclosed transverse process in the axis. The intertrait relationship was significant for all traits that shared the same embryonic structure. Morphological variations became visible following the appearance of ossification centers during the pre- and postnatal periods, and their etiology was associated with embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Villoria Rojas
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Psiquiatría y Anatomía Patológica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain.
| | - Javier Irurita Olivares
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Toxicología y Antropología Física, Universidad de Granada, Spain.
| | - Pilar Mata Tutor
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Psiquiatría y Anatomía Patológica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain.
| | - María Sánchez
- Departamento de Medicina Legal, Psiquiatría y Anatomía Patológica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain.
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4
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Goeteyn J, Pesser N, van Nuenen B, van Sambeek M, Teijink J. Familial predisposition of thoracic outlet syndrome: does a familial syndrome exist? Report of cases and review of literature. Acta Chir Belg 2021; 121:211-214. [PMID: 31587610 DOI: 10.1080/00015458.2019.1675970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) is caused by compression of the brachial plexus. The clinical presentation of NTOS is characterized by symptoms of pain, paresthesia, numbness or muscle weakness in the neck, arm or hand. METHODS In this case report, five patients were diagnosed with NTOS. They all had a first degree relative with NTOS as well. CONLUSIONS These cases show familial predisposition in thoracic outlet syndrome. Could a form of familial TOS exist?
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Goeteyn
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Niels Pesser
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Bart van Nuenen
- Department of Neurology, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marc van Sambeek
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Department of Education and Research, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Teijink
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Kitamura K, Yamamoto M, Hirota Y, Sato N, Machida T, Ishikawa N, Yamamoto H, Murakami G, Abe S. Cervical nerve roots and the dural sheath: a histological study using human fetuses near term. Anat Cell Biol 2020; 53:451-459. [PMID: 33012725 PMCID: PMC7769102 DOI: 10.5115/acb.20.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
We have previously reported that the thoracolumbar posterior nerve root shows a tortuous epidural course, based on studies of human fetuses near term. For comparison with the cervical nerve, examinations were conducted using frontal, sagittal and horizontal sections of cervical vertebrae from 22 fetuses at 30-38 weeks of gestation. The cervical nerve root showed a short, straight and lateral course near the zygapophysial joint. Multiple rather than single bundles of the cervical posterior root seemed to account for the majority of sensory nerve fibers innervating the upper extremity. Fasciculation of rootlets was evident near the thoracolumbar spinal cord, whereas it was seen in the dural pocket at the nerve exit from the dural sac although both sites were subdural. As in the thoracolumbar region, the nerve sheath was continuous with the dura mater and independently surrounded each of the anterior and posterior roots. Radicular arteries were few in the cervical region. In 2 of the 22 fetuses (31 weeks and 33 weeks), there was a segmental, unilateral abnormality of nerve rootlet fasciculation where the dorsal root ganglion was located lateral or peripheral to the intervertebral region. Long nerve roots running inferiorly are a necessary adaptation to the delayed and marked growth of the thoracolumbar vertebral column. In children, the cervical nerve roots are likely to be affected by movement or dislocation of the vertebrae. The segmental abnormality of the cervical nerve root may be linked to rare variations in the brachial plexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Kitamura
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Noriyuki Sato
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Noboru Ishikawa
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yamamoto
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen Murakami
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Internal Medicine, Jikou-kai Home Visit Clinic, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Abe
- Department of Anatomy, Tokyo Dental College, Tokyo, Japan
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6
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Schut PC, Brosens E, Van Dooren TJM, Galis F, Ten Broek CMA, Baijens IMM, Dremmen MHG, Tibboel D, Schol MP, de Klein A, Eggink AJ, Cohen-Overbeek TE. Exploring copy number variants in deceased fetuses and neonates with abnormal vertebral patterns and cervical ribs. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1513-1525. [PMID: 32755042 PMCID: PMC7689732 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Cervical patterning abnormalities are rare in the general population, but one variant, cervical ribs, is particularly common in deceased fetuses and neonates. The discrepancy between the incidence in the general population and early mortality is likely due to indirect selection against cervical ribs. The cause for the co‐occurrence of cervical ribs and adverse outcome remains unidentified. Copy number variations resulting in gain or loss of specific genes involved in development and patterning could play a causative role. Methods Radiographs of 374 deceased fetuses and infants, including terminations of pregnancies, stillbirths and neonatal deaths, were assessed. Copy number profiles of 265 patients were determined using single nucleotide polymorphism array. Results 274/374 patients (73.3%) had an abnormal vertebral pattern, which was associated with congenital abnormalities. Cervical ribs were present in 188/374 (50.3%) and were more common in stillbirths (69/128 [53.9%]) and terminations of pregnancies (101/188 [53.7%]), compared to live births (18/58, 31.0%). Large (likely) deleterious copy number variants and aneuploidies were prevalent in these patients. None of the rare copy number variants were recurrent or overlapped with candidate genes for vertebral patterning. Conclusions The large variety of copy number variants in deceased fetuses and neonates with similar abnormalities of the vertebral pattern probably reflects the etiological heterogeneity of vertebral patterning abnormalities. This genetic heterogeneity corresponds with the hypothesis that cervical ribs can be regarded as a sign of disruption of critical, highly interactive stages of embryogenesis. The vertebral pattern can probably provide valuable information regarding fetal and neonatal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline C Schut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin Brosens
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tom J M Van Dooren
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,CNRS, Institute of Ecology and Environmental Sciences iEES Paris, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Inge M M Baijens
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein H G Dremmen
- Department of Radiology, Division of Paediatric Radiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Tibboel
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC, Erasmus University Medical Center Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin P Schol
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies de Klein
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alex J Eggink
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Titia E Cohen-Overbeek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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7
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Partiot C, Guillon M, Peressinotto D, Castex D, Maureille B. Cervical ribs in human early life: morphological variability and first identification as a morbidity criterion in a past population. J Anat 2020; 237:119-132. [PMID: 32187701 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the medical literature on supernumerary cervical ribs in extant adult samples, little is known about their development and occurrence in early infancy. The documentation of cervical ribs in modern samples of fetuses and neonates is indeed affected by ethical as well as technical limitations. The aim of the present study was to investigate their frequencies and morphological variability in the first known archaeological collection of very young children with this anatomical variant. The study sample comes from the 8B-51 necropolis on the Saï island (Sudan) and dates to the Classic Kerma Period (XVIIIe-XVIe centuries BC). It consists of 64 individuals deceased between 24 weeks of amenorrhoea and 2 years of age. Bilateral or unilateral cervical ribs were found in 27 individuals. A total of 43 cervical ribs were identified, 38 of which are fully preserved. According to these observations, at least 42% of the individuals have unilateral or bilateral cervical ribs, with an average maximum length of < 1 cm. This frequency is very high compared to those observed in contemporary adult samples (up to 3%). First, the comparison of our results with biological and genetic research demonstrating the link between the occurrence of cervical ribs and a reduced chance of survival during infancy allows the first identification of this trait as an indicator of morbidity in an archaeological collection, a morbidity to which a genetic homogeneity or even endogamy could contribute. Second, the number of ribs studied makes it possible to propose a morphological classification based on the general shape and the shape of the articular facets, classification that can be used tos refine the analyses of the trait in future samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Partiot
- UMR 5199 PACEA, CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac Cedex, France
| | - Mark Guillon
- UMR 5199 PACEA, CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac Cedex, France.,Inrap, Boulevard de Verdun, Le Grand Quevilly, France
| | - David Peressinotto
- UMR 5199 PACEA, CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac Cedex, France.,Hades Archéologie, Balma, France
| | - Dominique Castex
- UMR 5199 PACEA, CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac Cedex, France
| | - Bruno Maureille
- UMR 5199 PACEA, CNRS, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac Cedex, France
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8
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Kudlicki A. Why a Constant Number of Vertebrae? Digital Control of Segmental Identity during Vertebrate Development: The Somite Cycle Controls a Digital, Chromatin-Based Counter That Defines Segmental Identity and Body Plans in Vertebrate Animals. Bioessays 2019; 42:e1900133. [PMID: 31755133 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
It is not understood how the numbers and identities of vertebrae are controlled during mammalian development. The remarkable robustness and conservation of segmental numbers may suggest the digital nature of the underlying process. The study proposes a mechanism that allows cells to obtain and store the segmental information in digital form, and to produce a pattern of chromatin accessibility that in turn regulates Hox gene expression specific to the metameric segment. The model requires that a regulatory element be present such that the number of occurrences of the motif between two consecutive Hox genes equals the number of segments under the control of the anterior gene. This is true for the recently discovered hydroxyl radical cleavage 3bp-periodic (HRC3) motif, associated with histone modifications and developmental genes. The finding not only allows the correct prediction of the numbers of segments using only sequence information, but also resolves the 40-year-old enigma of the function of temporal and spatial collinearity of Hox genes. The logic of the mechanism is illustrated in the attached animated video. How different aspects of the proposed mechanism can be tested experimentally is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Kudlicki
- Institute for Translational Sciences, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX, USA
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9
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Plaza Aulestia N, Rodríguez Montero S, Velloso Feijoo ML. Double cervical rib: A case report. REUMATOLOGIA CLINICA 2019; 15:370-371. [PMID: 28774658 DOI: 10.1016/j.reuma.2017.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nahia Plaza Aulestia
- Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitario Virgen de Valme, Sevilla, España.
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10
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Williams SA, Spear JK, Petrullo L, Goldstein DM, Lee AB, Peterson AL, Miano DA, Kaczmarek EB, Shattuck MR. Increased variation in numbers of presacral vertebrae in suspensory mammals. Nat Ecol Evol 2019; 3:949-956. [DOI: 10.1038/s41559-019-0894-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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García-Martínez D, Campo Martín M, González Martín A, Cambra-Moo Ó, Barash A, Bastir M. Reevaluation of ‘endocostal ossifications’ on the Kebara 2 Neanderthal ribs. J Hum Evol 2018; 122:33-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Revised: 04/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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12
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DeSesso JM, Scialli AR. Bone development in laboratory mammals used in developmental toxicity studies. Birth Defects Res 2018; 110:1157-1187. [PMID: 29921029 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Evaluation of the skeleton in laboratory animals is a standard component of developmental toxicology testing. Standard methods of performing the evaluation have been established, and modification of the evaluation using imaging technologies is under development. The embryology of the rodent, rabbit, and primate skeleton has been characterized in detail and summarized herein. The rich literature on variations and malformations in skeletal development that can occur in the offspring of normal animals and animals exposed to test articles in toxicology studies is reviewed. These perturbations of skeletal development include ossification delays, alterations in number, shape, and size of ossification centers, and alterations in numbers of ribs and vertebrae. Because the skeleton is undergoing developmental changes at the time fetuses are evaluated in most study designs, transient delays in development can produce apparent findings of abnormal skeletal structure. The determination of whether a finding represents a permanent change in embryo development with adverse consequences for the organism is important in study interpretation. Knowledge of embryological processes and schedules can assist in interpretation of skeletal findings.
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Brocal J, De Decker S, José-López R, Manzanilla EG, Penderis J, Stalin C, Bertram S, Schoenebeck JJ, Rusbridge C, Fitzpatrick N, Gutierrez-Quintana R. C7 vertebra homeotic transformation in domestic dogs - are Pug dogs breaking mammalian evolutionary constraints? J Anat 2018; 233:255-265. [PMID: 29761492 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of cervical vertebrae in mammals is almost constant at seven, regardless of their neck length, implying that there is selection against variation in this number. Homebox (Hox) genes are involved in this evolutionary mammalian conservation, and homeotic transformation of cervical into thoracic vertebrae (cervical ribs) is a common phenotypic abnormality when Hox gene expression is altered. This relatively benign phenotypic change can be associated with fatal traits in humans. Mutations in genes upstream of Hox, inbreeding and stressors during organogenesis can also cause cervical ribs. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of cervical ribs in a large group of domestic dogs of different breeds, and explore a possible relation with other congenital vertebral malformations (CVMs) in the breed with the highest prevalence of cervical ribs. By phenotyping we hoped to give clues as to the underlying genetic causes. Twenty computed tomography studies from at least two breeds belonging to each of the nine groups recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale, including all the brachycephalic 'screw-tailed' breeds that are known to be overrepresented for CVMs, were reviewed. The Pug dog was more affected by cervical ribs than any other breed (46%; P < 0.001), and was selected for further analysis. No association was found between the presence of cervical ribs and vertebral body formation defect, bifid spinous process, caudal articular process hypoplasia/aplasia and an abnormal sacrum, which may infer they have a different aetiopathogenesis. However, Pug dogs with cervical ribs were more likely to have a transitional thoraco-lumbar vertebra (P = 0.041) and a pre-sacral vertebral count of 26 (P < 0.001). Higher C7/T1 dorsal spinous processes ratios were associated with the presence of cervical ribs (P < 0.001), supporting this is a true homeotic transformation. Relaxation of the stabilizing selection has likely occurred, and the Pug dog appears to be a good naturally occurring model to further investigate the aetiology of cervical ribs, other congenital vertebral anomalies and numerical alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brocal
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - S De Decker
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - R José-López
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - E G Manzanilla
- Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - J Penderis
- Vet-Extra Neurology, Broadleys Veterinary Hospital, Stirling, UK
| | - C Stalin
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - S Bertram
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, University of London, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - J J Schoenebeck
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - C Rusbridge
- Fitzpatrick Referrals, Eashing, Surrey, UK.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
| | | | - R Gutierrez-Quintana
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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14
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Schut PC, Ten Broek CMA, Cohen-Overbeek TE, Bugiani M, Steegers EAP, Eggink AJ, Galis F. Increased prevalence of abnormal vertebral patterning in fetuses and neonates with trisomy 21. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 32:2280-2286. [PMID: 29353507 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1431622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the prevalence of an abnormal number of ribs in a cohort of fetuses and neonates with trisomy 21 and compare this with a subgroup of fetuses without anomalies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Radiographs of 67 deceased fetuses, neonates, and infants that were diagnosed with trisomy 21 were reviewed. Terminations of pregnancy were included. The control group was composed of 107 deceased fetuses, neonates, and infants without known chromosomal abnormalities, structural malformations, infections or placental pathology. Cases in which the number of thoracic ribs or presence of cervical ribs could not be reliably assessed were excluded. The literature concerning vertebral patterning in trisomy 21 cases and healthy subjects was reviewed. RESULTS Absent or rudimentary 12th thoracic ribs were found in 26/54 (48.1%) cases with trisomy 21 and cervical ribs were present in 27/47 (57.4%) cases. This prevalence was significantly higher compared to controls (28/100, 28.0%, Χ2(1) = 6.252, p = .012 and 28/97, 28.9%, Χ2(1) = 10.955, p < .001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Rudimentary or absent 12th thoracic ribs and cervical ribs are significantly more prevalent in deceased fetuses and infants with trisomy 21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline C Schut
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Erasmus MC University Medical Center , Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | | | - Titia E Cohen-Overbeek
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Erasmus MC University Medical Center , Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Marianna Bugiani
- c Department of Pathology , VU University Medical Centre , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Erasmus MC University Medical Center , Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Alex J Eggink
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Erasmus MC University Medical Center , Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine , Rotterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Frietson Galis
- b Naturalis Biodiversity Center , Leiden , The Netherlands
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van der Geer AAE, Galis F. High incidence of cervical ribs indicates vulnerable condition in Late Pleistocene woolly rhinoceroses. PeerJ 2017; 5:e3684. [PMID: 28875067 PMCID: PMC5580387 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammals as a rule have seven cervical vertebrae, a number that remains remarkably constant. Changes of this number are associated with major congenital abnormalities (pleiotropic effects) that are, at least in humans, strongly selected against. Recently, it was found that Late Pleistocene mammoths (Mammuthus primigenius) from the North Sea have an unusually high incidence of abnormal cervical vertebral numbers, approximately ten times higher than that of extant elephants. Abnormal numbers were due to the presence of large cervical ribs on the seventh vertebra, indicating a homeotic change from a cervical rib-less vertebra into a thoracic rib-bearing vertebra. The high incidence of cervical ribs indicates a vulnerable condition and is thought to be due to inbreeding and adverse conditions that may have impacted early pregnancies in declining populations. In this study we investigated the incidence of cervical ribs in another extinct Late Pleistocene megaherbivore from the North Sea and the Netherlands, the woolly rhinoceros (Coelodonta antiquitatis). We show that the incidence of abnormal cervical vertebral numbers in the woolly rhinoceros is unusually high for mammals (15,6%, n = 32) and much higher than in extant Rhinoceratidae (0%, n = 56). This indicates that woolly rhinoceros lived under vulnerable conditions, just like woolly mammoths. The vulnerable condition may well have contributed to their eventual extinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A E van der Geer
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Zografou, Greece
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16
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Ten Broek CMA, Bots J, Bugiani M, Galis F, Van Dongen S. No relationship between vertebral column shifts and limb fluctuating asymmetry in human foetuses. PeerJ 2017. [PMID: 28626605 PMCID: PMC5470575 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbance from the normal developmental trajectory of a trait during growth—the so-called developmental instability—can be observed morphologically through phenodeviants and subtle deviations from perfect symmetry (fluctuating asymmetry). This study investigates the relationship between phenodeviance in the human vertebral column (as a result of axial patterning defects) and limb fluctuating asymmetry. Since both types of markers of developmental instability have been found associated with congenital abnormalities in humans, we anticipate a relationship between them if the concept of developmental instability, measured through either phenodeviants or asymmetry, would reflect an organism-wide process. Yet we did not find any support for this hypothesis. We argue that the vast differences in the developmental processes involved in both systems renders these two markers of developmental instability unrelated, in spite of their associations with other congenital abnormalities. Our results thus contribute to the growing awareness that developmental instability is not an organism-wide property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M A Ten Broek
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, Universiteit Antwerpen, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jessica Bots
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, Universiteit Antwerpen, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marianna Bugiani
- Department of Pathology, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Stefan Van Dongen
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, Universiteit Antwerpen, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
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17
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Janák D, Novotný K, Roček M, Rohn V. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A Significant Family Genetic Phenotypic Presentation. Prague Med Rep 2017; 117:117-123. [PMID: 27668528 DOI: 10.14712/23362936.2016.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on a very rare case of diagnosis and successful surgical treatment of three young family members with a four-fold presentation of thoracic outlet syndrome. In the relevant family case, we are considering and discussing the population incidence, a possible HOX genes disorder, and a significant phenotypic presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Janák
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic. .,Institute of Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Karel Novotný
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Miloslav Roček
- Department of Radiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vilém Rohn
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
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18
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New Diagnostic and Treatment Modalities for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2017; 7:diagnostics7020028. [PMID: 28555024 PMCID: PMC5489948 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics7020028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome is a widely recognized, yet controversial, syndrome. The lack of specific objective diagnostic modalities makes diagnosis difficult. This is compounded by a lack of agreed upon definitive criteria to confirm diagnosis. Recent efforts have been made to more clearly define a set of diagnostic criteria that will bring consistency to the diagnosis of neurogenic thoracic syndrome. Additionally, advancements have been made in the quality and techniques of various imaging modalities that may aid in providing more accurate diagnoses. Surgical decompression remains the mainstay of operative treatment; and minimally invasive techniques are currently in development to further minimize the risks of this procedure. Medical management continues to be refined to provide non-operative treatment modalities for certain patients, as well. The aim of the present work is to review these updates in the diagnosis and treatment of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome.
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19
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Changes of Fluctuating Asymmetry with Age in Human Fetuses and Young Infants. Symmetry (Basel) 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/sym9030044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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20
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Adverse Fetal and Neonatal Outcome and an Abnormal Vertebral Pattern: A Systematic Review. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2016; 71:741-750. [DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0000000000000388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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The Epidemiological, Morphological, and Clinical Aspects of the Cervical Ribs in Humans. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:8034613. [PMID: 27975060 PMCID: PMC5126392 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8034613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A familiarity with the anatomy of some types of bone anomalies is necessary for clinicians involved in many medical areas. The aim of this paper is to review the newest literature concerning the morphology, embryology, clinical image, and therapeutic methods of the cervical ribs in the humans. The incidence of cervical ribs has been found to vary from 0.58% in Malaysian population to 6.2% in Turkish population. Cervical ribs have clinical implications that are generally divided into neurological or vascular. This study is of particular importance for clinicians, as early identification of cervical ribs may prevent life-threatening complications.
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22
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Avilés-Martínez KI. [Spondylocostal dysostosis and acute cholangitis in pediatrics emergency room]. BOLETIN MEDICO DEL HOSPITAL INFANTIL DE MEXICO 2016; 73:256-267. [PMID: 29421389 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmhimx.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Revised: 04/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital malformations of the chest wall comprise a heterogeneous group of diseases denominated spondylocostal dysostosis. They have in common developmental abnormalities in the morphology of the structures of the chest and vertebrae with a broad characterization: from mild deformity without functional consequences to life-threatening injuries. We present the case of a girl with spondylocostal dysostosis and acute cholangitis. CLINICAL CASE A 13-month-old girl with severe malnutrition, history of hydrocephalus and myelomeningocele at birth was admitted in the emergency pediatric room with fever and progressive respiratory distress. Clinical assessment revealed ribs and vertebral malformations and acute cholangitis. CONCLUSIONS Complex rib abnormalities consist in deformities of the chest wall, which do not have a specific pattern and are extremely rare. When they are associated with myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus they may be considered as autosomal recessive inheritance spondylocostal dysostosis. The diagnosis is established by clinical assessment and X-rays. Spondylocostal dysostosis identification and complications related to their genetic and molecular causes are still a challenge for clinical pediatricians and the multidisciplinary medical team who treats these patients throughout lifetime.
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23
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24
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Axial skeletogenesis in human autosomal aneuploidies: A radiographic study of 145 second trimester fetuses. Am J Med Genet A 2015; 170:676-87. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.37510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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25
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Wu R, Jiang H, Chen W, Li Q, Zhao Y, Bi Y, Zhang Y, Li C, Pan B. Three-dimensional chest computed tomography analysis of thoracic deformities in patients with microtia. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2015; 68:498-504. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2014.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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26
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Bilateral cervical ribs in a Dobermann Pinscher. Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2015; 28:145-50. [PMID: 25650786 DOI: 10.3415/vcot-14-07-0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An 11-year-old intact female Doberman Pinscher was presented with the complaint of non-ambulatory tetraparesis. Clinical and neurological examination revealed a caudal cervical spinal cord disfunction (C6-T2 spinal cord segments). Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomographic (CT) findings of the cervical spine were consistent with caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM). During the diagnostic work-up for the cervical spine, bilateral bone anomalies involving the seventh cervical vertebra and the first ribs were found on radiographs and CT examination. The rib anomalies found in this dog appear similar to cervical ribs widely described in human medicine. In people, cervical ribs are associated with a high rate of stillbirth, early childhood cancer, and can cause the thoracic outlet syndrome, characterized by neurovascular compression at level of superior aperture of the chest. In dogs, only some sporadic anatomopathological descriptions of cervical ribs exist. In this report the radiographic and CT findings of these particular vertebral and rib anomalies along with their relationships with adjacent vasculature and musculature are shown intravitam in a dog. Specific radiographic and CT findings described in this report may help in reaching a presumptive diagnosis of this anomaly. Finally, their clinical and evolutionary significance are discussed.
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27
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Reumer JWF, Ten Broek CMA, Galis F. Extraordinary incidence of cervical ribs indicates vulnerable condition in Late Pleistocene mammoths. PeerJ 2014; 2:e318. [PMID: 24711969 PMCID: PMC3970796 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of cervical vertebrae in mammals is highly conserved at seven. We have shown that changes of this number are selected against due to a coupling with major congenital abnormalities (pleiotropic effects). Here we show that the incidence of abnormal cervical vertebral numbers in Late Pleistocene mammoths from the North Sea is high (33.3%) and approximately 10 times higher than that of extant elephants (3.6%). Abnormal numbers were due to the presence of large cervical ribs on the seventh vertebra, which we deduced from the presence of rib articulation facets on sixth (posterior side) and seventh (anterior side) cervical vertebrae. The incidence of abnormal cervical vertebral numbers in mammoths appears to be much higher than in other mammalian species, apart from exceptional sloths, manatees and dugongs and indicates a vulnerable condition. We argue that the increased incidence of cervical ribs in mammoths is probably caused by inbreeding and adverse conditions that impact early pregnancies in declining populations close to extinction in the Late Pleistocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelle W F Reumer
- Natural History Museum , Rotterdam , The Netherlands ; Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University , Utrecht , The Netherlands
| | - Clara M A Ten Broek
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Terrestrial Zoology/Geology , Leiden , The Netherlands ; University Antwerp, Evolutionary Ecology Group , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - Frietson Galis
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Terrestrial Zoology/Geology , Leiden , The Netherlands
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28
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Van Dongen S, Galis F, Ten Broek C, Heikinheimo K, Wijnaendts LCD, Delen S, Bots J. No sexual dimorphism in human prenatal metacarpal ratios. Early Hum Dev 2014; 90:157-60. [PMID: 24480605 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ratios of digit lengths are studied intensively as markers of prenatal sex hormone levels. AIM Study sexual dimorphism in ratios of metacarpals, which received less attention. METHODS We studied six metacarpal ratios in deceased human fetuses of ages 10 to 42weeks. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION We found no indication of a sexual dimorphism at this early stage of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Van Dongen
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Frietson Galis
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; NCB Naturalis, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Clara Ten Broek
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kristiina Heikinheimo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Institute of Dentistry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, Institute of Dentistry, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Sofie Delen
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jessica Bots
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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29
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Van Dongen S, Galis F, Ten Broek C, Heikinheimo K, Wijnaendts LCD, Delen S, Bots J. When right differs from left: human limb directional asymmetry emerges during very early development. Laterality 2014; 19:591-601. [PMID: 24579655 DOI: 10.1080/1357650x.2014.891606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The often observed directional asymmetry (DA) in human limb bones may have a genetic/developmental basis and/or could emerge from different mechanical loadings across sides due to handedness. Because behavioural lateralization in itself has a genetic basis, it has been suggested that DA in limbs could develop prenatally as a pre-adaptation to adult life. However, the presence of consistent differences in the size of left and right limb bones in early development is understudied. We study asymmetry in limb bones during early development (10-20 weeks of gestation) in a sample of 178 aborted foetuses. Statistically significant DA was found in several upper and lower limb bones, where the right-hand side was consistently larger than the left. We argue that this pattern is probably the consequence of developmental processes related to internal asymmetric positioning of organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Van Dongen
- a Department of Biology, Evolutionary Ecology Group , University of Antwerp , Antwerp , Belgium
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30
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Ten Broek CMA, Bakker AJ, Varela-Lasheras I, Bugiani M, Van Dongen S, Galis F. Evo-Devo of the Human Vertebral Column: On Homeotic Transformations, Pathologies and Prenatal Selection. Evol Biol 2012; 39:456-471. [PMID: 23226903 PMCID: PMC3514701 DOI: 10.1007/s11692-012-9196-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Accepted: 07/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Homeotic transformations of vertebrae are particularly common in humans and tend to come associated with malformations in a wide variety of organ systems. In a dataset of 1,389 deceased human foetuses and infants a majority had cervical ribs and approximately half of these individuals also had missing twelfth ribs or lumbar ribs. In ~10 % of all cases there was an additional shift of the lumbo-sacral boundary and, hence, homeotic transformations resulted in shifts of at least three vertebral boundaries. We found a strong coupling between the abnormality of the vertebral patterns and the amount and strength of associated malformations, i.e., the longer the disturbance of the vertebral patterning has lasted, the more associated malformations have developed and the more organ systems are affected. The germ layer of origin of the malformations was not significantly associated with the frequency of vertebral patterns. In contrast, we find significant associations with the different developmental mechanisms that are involved in the causation of the malformations, that is, segmentation, neural crest development, left-right patterning, etc. Our results, thus, suggest that locally perceived developmental signals are more important for the developmental outcome than the origin of the cells. The low robustness of vertebral A-P patterning apparent from the large number of homeotic transformations is probably caused by the strong interactivity of developmental processes and the low redundancy of involved morphogens during early organogenesis. Additionally, the early irreversibility of the specification of the A-P identity of vertebrae probably adds to the vulnerability of the process by limiting the possibility for recovery from developmental disturbances. The low developmental robustness of vertebral A-P patterning contrasts with a high robustness of the A-P patterning of the vertebral regions. Not only the order is invariable, also the variation in the number of vertebrae per region is small. This robustness is in agreement with the evolutionary stability of vertebral regions in tetrapods. Finally, we propose a new hypothesis regarding the constancy of the presacral number of vertebrae in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara M A Ten Broek
- Group of Evolutionary Ecology, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium ; Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333 CR Leiden, The Netherlands
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31
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Viertel VG, Intrapiromkul J, Maluf F, Patel NV, Zheng W, Alluwaimi F, Walden MJ, Belzberg A, Yousem DM. Cervical ribs: a common variant overlooked in CT imaging. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2012; 33:2191-4. [PMID: 22790240 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a3143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cervical ribs are congenital variants that are known to cause TOS or brachial plexopathy in up to 10% of the affected individuals. We investigated how often cervical ribs are present on cervical spine CT scans to determine the incidence in humans and the percentage of reported cervical ribs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cervical spine CT scans and the reports of 3404 consecutive adult patients were retrospectively reviewed to determine the presence of cervical ribs and whether they had been reported. RESULTS Cervical ribs were found in 2.0% (67/3404) of the population. Of the 67 patients with cervical ribs, 27 (40.3%) had bilateral ribs. The prevalence of cervical ribs in women was twice that in men, 2.8% (39/1414) versus 1.4% (28/1990). Although African Americans accounted for 50.1% (1706/3404) and whites, 41.2% (1402/3404) of the patient population, African Americans were 70.1% (47/67) of patients with cervical ribs, whereas whites were 26.9% (18/67). Radiologists commented on 25.5% (24/94) of the cervical ribs in 25.4% (27/67) of patients. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of cervical ribs in the human population has been a source of uncertainty due to the degree of difficulty that comes in detecting this often subtle congenital variation. In our sample, the prevalence was 2.0% of patients. Our study determined that cervical ribs are underreported in patients undergoing cervical spine CT. Given the potential clinical implications of these anatomic variants, neuroradiologists must be more meticulous in identifying cervical ribs when reviewing cervical spine CT scans.
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Affiliation(s)
- V G Viertel
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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Furtado LV, Thaker HM, Erickson LK, Shirts BH, Opitz JM. Cervical ribs are more prevalent in stillborn fetuses than in live-born infants and are strongly associated with fetal aneuploidy. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2011; 14:431-7. [PMID: 21711209 DOI: 10.2350/11-01-0974-oa.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of cervical ribs in stillborn fetuses undergoing autopsy at our institution and to search for significant associations with cervical ribs. European studies have reported an increased prevalence of cervical ribs in patients with childhood cancer and in stillborn fetuses. We reviewed data from autopsies performed at Primary Children's Medical Center, Utah, between 2006 and 2009 on 225 stillborns (≥20 weeks) and 93 deceased live-born infants (<1 year). Digital fetal radiographs in anterior-posterior and lateral views had been taken of each subject. Chi-square analysis and general linear models were used for statistical analysis of the data. The overall prevalence of cervical ribs was higher in stillborns than in live-borns who died in the first year (43.1% vs 11.8%). Karyotypes were available for 93 (41.3%) of the stillborns. Of those, cervical ribs were present in 33 of 76 (43.4%) stillborns with normal karyotype and in 13 of 17 (76.4%) stillborns with aneuploidy. Females with unavailable karyotypes were more likely to have cervical ribs than those with normal karyotypes (P = 0.0002). This greater likelihood was not observed in males. Among the stillborns with normal karyotypes, we found no statistically significant association with gender or gestational age at fetal death. There was also no statistically significant association between congenital anomalies and the presence of cervical ribs. Our findings support the hypothesis that cervical ribs are markers for disadvantageous developmental events occurring during blastogenesis and have been subject to strong negative selection during evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa V Furtado
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, 50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112 USA
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33
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Breaking evolutionary and pleiotropic constraints in mammals: On sloths, manatees and homeotic mutations. EvoDevo 2011; 2:11. [PMID: 21548920 PMCID: PMC3120709 DOI: 10.1186/2041-9139-2-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2010] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mammals as a rule have seven cervical vertebrae, except for sloths and manatees. Bateson proposed that the change in the number of cervical vertebrae in sloths is due to homeotic transformations. A recent hypothesis proposes that the number of cervical vertebrae in sloths is unchanged and that instead the derived pattern is due to abnormal primaxial/abaxial patterning. Results We test the detailed predictions derived from both hypotheses for the skeletal patterns in sloths and manatees for both hypotheses. We find strong support for Bateson's homeosis hypothesis. The observed vertebral and rib patterns cannot be explained by changes in primaxial/abaxial patterning. Vertebral patterns in sloths and manatees are similar to those in mice and humans with abnormal numbers of cervical vertebrae: incomplete and asymmetric homeotic transformations are common and associated with skeletal abnormalities. In sloths the homeotic vertebral shift involves a large part of the vertebral column. As such, similarity is greatest with mice mutant for genes upstream of Hox. Conclusions We found no skeletal abnormalities in specimens of sister taxa with a normal number of cervical vertebrae. However, we always found such abnormalities in conspecifics with an abnormal number, as in many of the investigated dugongs. These findings strongly support the hypothesis that the evolutionary constraints on changes of the number of cervical vertebrae in mammals is due to deleterious pleitropic effects. We hypothesize that in sloths and manatees low metabolic and activity rates severely reduce the usual stabilizing selection, allowing the breaking of the pleiotropic constraints. This probably also applies to dugongs, although to a lesser extent.
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