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The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on biofilm layers and on the course of disease in chronic otitis media.Twenty-five rats that were induced with chronic otitis media (COM) were separated into three groups. In Group 1 (N = 18), 0.2% ciprofloxacin + 0.1% dexamethasone sodium phosphate + 0.5 mg/ml NAC solution was locally injected to the right ear of the rats; in Group 2, (N=18) 0.2% ciprofloxacin + 0.1% dexamethasone sodium phosphate was locally injected to the left ear of the rats. No treatment was applied to either ear of rats in Group 3 (N = 5). Histopathological and scanning electron microscope (SEM) evaluations were performed in all groups.SEM revealed biofilm formation in all COM induced groups. No significant difference was seen between groups 1 and 2 in terms of suppuration levels, fibrosis, inner ear involvement, infection staging and biofilm formation (p0.05).In this study, while histopathological and SEM evaluation revealed no effect of 0.5 mg/ml NAC on the biofilm layer in COM-induced rats, further studies with NAC at different concentrations are still needed on different types of experimental animals.L’effetto della N-acetil cisteina sullo strato di biofilm in un modello sperimentale di otite media cronica.Lo scopo di questo studio è quello di valutare l’efficacia della N-acetilcisteina (NAC) sullo strato di biofilm e sul decorso della malattia nell’otite media cronica.Venticinque ratti con otite media cronica (COM) sono stati divisi in tre gruppi. Nel gruppo 1 (N = 18) sono stati iniettati 0,2% di ciprofloxacina + 0,1% di desametasone sodio fosfato + 0,5 mg / ml di soluzione NAC all’orecchio destro dei ratti; nel gruppo 2 (N = 18) sono stati iniettati localmente 0,2% di ciprofloxacina + 0,1% di desametasone sodio fosfato all’orecchio sinistro dei ratti. Nessun trattamento è stato applicato alle orecchie inoculate dei ratti nel gruppo 3 (N = 5, entrambe le orecchie). Sono state eseguite valutazioni istopatologiche e valutazioni al microscopio elettronico (SEM) mediante scansione.SEM ha documentato la formazione di biofilm in tutti i gruppi indotti con COM. Nessuna differenza statisticamente significativa è stata osservata tra i gruppi 1 e 2 in termini di livelli di suppurazione, fibrosi, coinvolgimento dell’orecchio interno, stadiazione dell’infezione e formazione di biofilm (p0,05).Anche se in questo studio la valutazione istopatologica e SEM non ha rivelato alcun effetto del 0,5 mg/ml NAC sullo strato di biofilm nei ratti indotti dalla COM, per arrivare a una conclusione migliore è necessario eseguire ulteriori studi con di NAC a diverse concentrazioni su differenti tipi di animali da esperimento.

Objective: Mastoid process is the downward projection from the mastoid part of the temporal bone located posteroinferior to external auditory meatus. Mastoid process is a palpable bony structure which enables to determine the location of asterion. The aim of this study is to define details of mastoid process anatomy to enlighten surgeons, anatomists, anthropologists and forensic experts.Material and Methods: Present study was conducted on 20 skulls (20 left + 20 right=40) and 18 hemi skulls of unknown sex. All measurements were taken by two observers simultaneously by using digital caliper. Of the 58 mastoid processes 30 were right sided and 28 were left sided.Results: Mean and standard deviation of all measurements were reported on each mastoid process. The difference between right A line (distance between right asterion and right apex of mastoid process) and left A line was statistically significant (p=0.022). The difference between right D line (Vertical distance between imaginary plane from the superior border of right external auditory meatus to right apex of mastoid process) and left D line was statistically significant (p

Vulvar cancer is rare. The complex inguinofemoral anatomy and the limited number of surgical procedures per year per gynecological oncologist tends to decrease the competency level. This step-by-step, cadaveric educational video was produced to increase understanding of the anatomy and technique of inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy.

Aim: Modiolus is a dense, mobile fibromuscular structure lateral to the mouth corner. It is of great importance in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. The aim of this study was to enlighten the structural changes in modiolus with demographic variables such as age and gender in living individuals.Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted on MR images of healthy individuals. Age and sex-related changes in modiolus level and volume were retrospectively analyzed in 64 patients [37M; 27F; mean age 48.2(16.3)] who underwent head and neck magnetic resonance imaging. ROC analysis was performed to determine the cut off values for age of modiolus. Correlation analysis (Pearson and point biserial correlation) was used to determine whether there was a significant correlation between age and volume. Significance of the differences between the volumes of right and left modiolus of the same individual were evaluated by dependent t tests.Results: The mean volume of the modiolus was calculated as 0.51(0.26) mm3. The volumes of right and left modioli decreased by aging. Ninety-one percent of the patients with modioli located inferior to horizontal line were over 49 years old. Right and left modioli relocated inferior to horizontal line with age. Modiolus volume was prominently less in women and the downward displacement of modiolus in women was 3.3 times higher than in men. Gender and age had significant effects on modiolus level. The right and left modiolus volumes were similar (P=0.975).Conclusion: Surgeon’s knowledge on modiolus and its relations will provide benefit, not only for the procedures such as face lifting and botulinum toxin injection, but also for the surgeries of facial paralysis and trauma patients., Amaç: Modiolus, ağız köşesinin lateralinde yoğun, hareketli, fibromüsküler bir yapıdır. Estetik ve rekonstrüktif cerrahide büyük öneme sahiptir. Çalışmanın amacı; yaş ve cinsiyet gibi demografik değişkenlere bağlı olarak modiolusta oluşan yapısal değişikleri göstermektir.Yöntemler: Bu çalışma sağlıklı bireylerin MR görüntülerinden retrospektif kohort çalışması olarak tasarlanmıştır. Modiolus düzeyinde ve hacminde yaş ve cinsiyete bağlı oluşan değişiklikler, baş ve boyun manyetik rezonans görüntülemesi yapılan 64 hastada [37E; 27K; ort. yaş 48,2(16,3)] retrospektif olarak incelendi. Yaşta cut off değerini belirlemek için ROC analizi yapıldı. Yaş ve hacim arasında anlamlı bir korelasyon olup olmadığı korelasyon analizi (Pearson ve point biserial korelasyon) ile değerlendirildi. Aynı bireyin sağ ve sol modiolus hacimleri arasındaki önemli farklar dependent t testi ile yapıldı.Bulgular: Modiolusun ortalama hacmi 0,51(0,26) mm3 bulundu. Sağ ve sol modiolus hacimleri yaş ile azalmıştır. Modiolus seviyesi horizontal hattın altında olan hastaların %91’i 49 yaşın üzerindeydi. Sağ ve sol modiolus, yaşlanma ile birlikte horizontal çizginin altına yer değiştirdi. Kadınlarda modiolus hacmi belirgin olarak daha azdı ve kadınlarda modiolusun aşağı doğru yer değiştirmesi, erkeklerden 3,3 kat daha yüksekti. Cinsiyet ve yaşın modiolus seviyesi üzerinde önemli etkisi vardı. Sağ ve sol hacim ölçümleri arasında istatistiksel fark bulunamadı (P=0,975).Sonuç: Cerrahın modiolus ve komşulukları hakkındaki bilgisi sadece yüz germe ve botulinum toksin enjeksiyonu gibi prosedürler için değil ayrıca facial paralizi ve travma hastalarının ameliyatları için de fayda sağlayacaktır.

OBJECTIVE To compare the electron microscopic lens findings with and without pseudoexfoliation syndrome (XFS), in patients undergoing surgery for senile cataract. STUDY DESIGN A descriptive study. Place and Duration of the Study: Ophthalmology Department, Hacettepe University Hospital between December 2019 and March 2020. METHODOLOGY Anterior lens capsules (basement membrane and lens epithelial cells) taken from 20 eyes of 20 patients with senile cataract were examined. XFS was detected by slit-lamp examination in 10 of 20 patients. Remaining 10 were included in the control group. All patients and controls were of similar age and had no systemic disease. The anterior lens capsules were obtained from cataract surgery and prepared for observation under a transmission electron microscope. RESULTS The mean age of individuals in the XFS and control groups was 69.4 ± 6.9 (56-82) years and 65.2 ± 6.9 (54-73) years, respectively. The best-corrected visual acuity in the XFS and control groups was 0.7 ± 0.4 (0.3-1.3) logMAR and 0.9 ± 0.4 (0.4-1.3) logMAR, respectively. Marked ultrastructural changes were observed in the anterior lens capsules of all eyes with pseudoexfoliation. Degenerative changes and thinning in lens epithelial cells were observed in all samples. The lens epithelial cells were loosely attached to the basement membrane in places. Numerous apoptotic cells with pyknotic nuclei were observed in lens epithelial cells, and many vacuoles within the cytoplasm in different areas were detected. CONCLUSION Transmission electron microscopic examination revealed ultrastructural abnormalities in the XFS epithelium of all patients in the XFS group. Many aspects of the pathogenetic process of XFS remain uncertain, hence requiring further exploration. Key Words: Capsule, Electron microscopy, Epithelium, Pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

Vatansever, Alper (Balikesir Author), Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the relations between submandibular duct, lingual nerve and hypoglossal nerve for making a reassessment of this area in fresh frozen specimens. Also, the distance between the angle of the mandible and the vertical line drawn from the point where submandibular duct crossed lingual nerve to the base of the mandible was measured to determine a new landmark for neck surgeons. Materials and methods: Fourteen fresh frozen head and neck specimens were dissected and evaluated. A marginal mandibular incision was made from the mastoid process to the chin. Results: In 8 cases, lingual nerve was crossing the submandibular duct superiorly; in 5 cases, lingual nerve was crossing the duct infero-medially and in 1 case it was parallel to the duct. In 1 case, lingual nerve subdivided into anterior and posterior branches. In 2 cases, 2 parallel submandibular ducts were found and the lingual nerve was crossing the upper duct from superior. In 1 case, lingual nerve was crossing the duct infero-medially and then it was subdividing into branches superior to mylohyoid. In 12 cases, the course of hypoglossal nerve was classical. In 1 case, hypoglossal nerve crossed the submandibular duct medially and coursed parallel to the tendon of posterior belly of digastric. And in another case, hypoglossal nerve crossed the inferior branch of submandibular duct medially. The other structures in this area were as usual. Conclusions: The main factor for reducing nerve damage during surgery is the understanding of the anatomy of this area.

Objectives: To investigate the effect of PRGF on the healing of the tendon damage in the Achilles tendinopathy model. Material and Methods: A preliminary study was designed to obtain more apparent tendinopathy changes in the subculture. Histopathologically, second level compression with a clamp for 1 minute followed by releasing for 3 minutes applying the same mechanical stimulus procedure for four times, was defined as the optimal compression mode for the most optimal damage in terms of tendinopathy. Thirty-four female Sprague Downey type rats were divided into five separate groups and clamped tendon damage was formed on unilateral (left) Acchilles tendons. The first group was a control group (Kontrol: CN); in the second group tissue specimens were taken from the rats immediately after being clamped (K-0); from the group 3, tissue samples were taken 1 week after clamping (K-7). Immediately after the tendinopathy model was applied to the animals in the fourth group (PRGF), the PRGF injection was performed to the subjects from the blood that was obtained from the control group, while an isotonic saline solution was injected into the subjects in the fifth group (SF), and tissue samples from both groups were obtained 1 week after. Results: The samples were examined by means of a transmission electron microscope. In the K-0 group among the collagenous fibers, vacuoles are observed in the cytoplasm of the edematous areas and fibrocytes, and in comparison, with K-7 and SF group there was a significant increase in fibroblast and collagen fiber synthesis in the PRGF-treated group. Furthermore, fibroblast and new collagen synthesis were observed to be increased in K-7 and SF groups. An intense increase in organelle levels was observed in PRGF group fibroblasts. Conclusion: This data suggests that PRGF may provide a better healing response in tendons with limited healing and circulation, which enhances the activation in the cells at the beginning of the healing process.

Amac: Bu calismada ust ve alt ekstremitelerde bulunan foramen nutricium’larin sayi ve lokalizasyonu acisindan incelenmesi amaclandi. Materyal ve Metot: Toplam 576 ust ve alt ekstremitede bulunan uzun kemik incelendi. Bu kemiklerden her biri, proksimal, distal ve orta olmak uzere 3 esit parcaya ayrildi. Foramen nutricium’larin olcumleri icin 80 x 0,38 mm olculerinde igne kullanilarak yapildi. Bulgular: Humerus ve femur karsilastirildiginda; humerus’larin orta kisminda %78,7’lik bir oranda, femur’larin ise proksimal kisminda %55,2’lik bir oranda tek bir foramen nutricium tespit edildi. Cift nutrient foramenler incelendiginde; humerus’un orta kisminda %70,8, femur proksimalinde %44,2, femur orta kisminda %48,3 oraninda bulundu. Sadece radius ve fibula’da tek bir nutrient foramen’e rastlandi. Radius’un proksimal kisminda %52,7 oraninda, orta kisimda %47,3 oraninda foramen nutricium’a rastlandi. Fibula’nin %79,7’sinde orta kisminda tek bir foramen nutricium, ulna’nin proksimalinde %73,6, orta bolumununde %26,4’unde tek bir foramen nutricium bulundu. Tibia’nin proksimalinde %98,3 oraninda tek bir nutrient foramene sahipti. Sonuc: Makro anatomik olarak incelendiginde; karsilastirilan kemiklerde foramen nutricium lokalizasyonlarinda istatiksel olarak fark tespit edildi. Bu sonuclar anatomik ve antropolojik acidan literature yeni bilgiler katmaktadir. Bununla beraber mikrovaskuler kemik transferi ve kirik tedavileri ile ilgilenen cerrahlar acisindan onem tasimaktadir.

Objectives: Due to objectives of Bologna Process, updated programs of School of Medicine, Hacettepe University were put into practice in 2013–2014 academic years. Progress of elective lectures and internships in undergraduate medical education and the role of anatomy were discussed. The outcomes of all data were obtained from the experiences of three academic years. Methods: Before Bologna Process, electives were present in the curriculums of Phase I and VI. Beginning with this process; two elective committees were added to curriculums of Phase I–III. In Phase IV and V, electives were organized as being part of internship. The new approach to elective lectures and internships were discussed both from point of medical students and lecturers. Results: Phase I-III students showed two major tendencies: choosing elective lectures related to medicine and choosing the ones which were in same campus. They also had two major complaints: difficulty of some electives and some undesired electives due to packaging system or related to extreme number of students. From the point of anatomy, students preferred to choose anatomy electives which were useful for anatomy curriculum. Lecturers complained from the extreme number of students, low number of electives and decreased number of theoretical hours. The extreme number of students and low number of electives seemed the major problems. Therefore, decreasing the number of elective lectures can be a solution. Additionally, the remaining time from these electives can be added to basic medical lectures. Conclusion: Excited lecturers with ideal number of students can perform the best education. From the point of anatomy, many elective clinical anatomy lectures are essential for drawing the attention.

Background To analyze protective/regenerative effects of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSC) on 131I-Radioiodine (RAI)-induced salivary gland damage in rats. Materials and Methods Study population consisted of controls (n:6) and study groups (n:54): RAI (Group 1), ADMSC (Group 2), amifostine (Group 3), RAI+amifostine (Group 4), concomitant RAI+ADMSC (Group 5) and RAI+ADMSC after 48 h (Group 6). We used light microscopy (LM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and salivary gland scintigraphy (SGS), and analyzed data statistically. Results We observed the homing of ADMSC in salivary glands at 1st month on LM. RAI exposure affected necrosis, periductal fibrosis, periductal sclerosis, vascular sclerosis and the total sum score were in a statistically significant manner (P < 0.05). Intragroup comparisons with LM at 1st and 6th months revealed statistically significant improvements in Group 6 (P < 0.05) but not in Groups 4 and 5. Intergroup comparisons of the total score showed that Groups 4 and 5 in 1st month and Group 6 in 6th month had the lowest values. TEM showed vacuolization, edema, and fibrosis at 1st month, and an improvement in damage in 6th month in Groups 5 and 6. SGSs revealed significant differences for the maximum secretion ratio (Smax) (P = 0.01) and the gland-to-background ratio at a maximum count (G/BGmax) (P = 0. 01) at 1st month, for G/BGmax (P = 0.01), Smax (P = 0.01) and the time to reach the maximum count ratio over the time to reach the minimum count (Tmax/Tmin) (P = 0.03) at 6th month. 1st and 6th month scans showed differences for Smax and G/BGmax (P = 0.04), but not for Tmax/Tmin (p > 0.05). We observed a significant deterioration in gland function in group 1, whereas, mild to moderate deteriorations were seen in protective treatment groups. Conclusions Our results indicated that ADMSC might play a promising role as a protective/regenerative agent against RAI-induced salivary gland dysfunction.

Introduction: Smoking is a public health problem that has been proven to have adverse effects on human health. Aerobic exercise has positive effects on the human body, especially on the respiratory system. Objective: The aim of this experimental animal model study was to determine whether regular aerobic exercise has a protective effect against the harmful effects of cigarette smoke on the nasal mucosa of rats. Methods: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were randomly separated into 3 groups of 8: group 1 (cigarette smoking), group 2 (cigarette smoking and exercise), and group 3 (control group). At the end of the experiment period, histopathological (light and electron microscopy) and immunohistochemical (GSTA 1, CYP1A1, and CYP2E1) evaluations were made of the nasal mucosa of the animals. Results: Goblet cell loss and basal membrane thickening were significantly lower in group 2 and group 3 compared to group 1. In the electron microscope evaluation, the inflammatory expressions of the goblet cells were observed in a very small area in group 2. In group 1, these were distributed over large areas between the mucosal cells. There was seen to be significant swelling of the mitochondria in group 1 compared to the other groups. No statistically significant difference was determined between the groups with respect to GSTA1, CYP2E1, and CYP1A1 scores ( P > .05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that regular aerobic exercise has a protective effect against the harmful effects of smoking on the nasal mucosa of rats.

Aim: The application of peripheral block is frequently used in anesthesia practice. One of the most significant complications of this procedure is peripheral nerve damage that can develop due to the needles used. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of tissue residue on the needle and to obtain information about damage to surrounding tissues during this procedure by examining the needles used in brachial plexus block with electron microscopy. Methods: This prospective-cohort study included patients who were to undergo forearm or hand surgery in the Orthopedics Clinic under anesthesia with infraclavicular brachial plexus block performed with 2 different techniques: The local anesthetic agent was administered to the subclavian artery at 6 and 9 o’clock levels in Group 1 and 2, 6 and 9 o’clock levels in Group 2. The needles used during the block were preserved in glutaraldehyde solution then examined with electron microscopy. The presence of tissue on the needles was recorded and statistical evaluations were made. Results: The needles used in two different techniques of infraclavicular brachial plexus block were examined under scanning electron microscope. The amount of tissue residue remaining on the needle in Group 1 was significantly less than that in Group 2 (P

Despite the new treatment strategies within the last 30 years, peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is still a worldwide clinical problem. The incidence rate of PNIs is 1 in 1000 individuals per year. In this study, we designed a composite nanoplatform for dual therapy in peripheral nerve injury and investigated the in-vivo efficacy in rat sciatic nerve crush injury model. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) was loaded into poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) electrospun nanofibers which would release the drug in a faster manner and atorvastatin (ATR) loaded chitosan (CH) nanoparticles were embedded into PLGA nanofibers to provide sustained release. Sciatic nerve crush was generated via Yasargil aneurism clip with a holding force of 50 g/cm2. Nanofiber formulations were administered to the injured nerve immediately after trauma. Functional recovery of operated rat hind limb was evaluated using the sciatic functional index (SFI), extensor postural thrust (EPT), withdrawal reflex latency (WRL) and Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) test up to one month in the post-operative period at different time intervals. In addition to functional recovery assessments, ultrastructural and biochemical analyses were carried out on regenerated nerve fibers. L-929 mouse fibroblast cell line and B35 neuroblastoma cell line were used to investigate the cytotoxicity of nanofibers before in-vivo experiments. The neuroprotection potential of these novel nanocomposite fiber formulations has been demonstrated after local implantation of composite nanofiber sheets incorporating ALA and ATR, which contributed to the recovery of the motor and sensory function and nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve crush injury model.

Aim To examine the effect of propolis on the healing process in terms of both electrophysiological and ultrastructural parameters in a rat model of experimental spinal cord injury. Material and methods Thirty rats were divided into control, spinal cord trauma, and treated trauma groups with 10 rats per group. The rats were sacrificed after 10 days. Before sacrifice, all rats were neurologically assessed by electrophysiological monitoring, and immediately after sacrifice, the spinal cord was examined ultrastructurally by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results According to the electrophysiological examination, the treatment group was statistically significantly different from the trauma group. However, no statistically significant difference was found between the control and treatment groups. In terms of the TEM examination, the treatment group was significantly different from the trauma group. Conclusion In this study, propolis was administered just before the induction of trauma, and the findings suggest that the use of propolis has a positive effect on the healing process. This implies that in order to prevent postoperative deficits, this treatment may be preferably applied before spinal cord surgery for trauma.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of short-term, high-magnitude whole-body vibration (WBV) on serum type I collagen turnover in immobilized rats. Materials and Methods Thirty Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into the following 5 groups: immobilization (IS), immobilization + remobilization (IR), immobilization + WBV (IV), control (C), and WBV control (CV). Immobilization was achieved by casting from the crista iliaca anterior superior to the lower part of the foot for 2 weeks. The applied WBV protocol involved a frequency of 45 Hz and amplitude of 3 mm for 7 days starting a day after the end of the immobilization period. Serum type I collagen turnover markers were measured by using ELISA kits. Results Serum NH2-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP) levels were significantly lower in the immobilization groups (p

AIM: To investigate the effect of short-term prophylactic dose of a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) drug on the bone healing process in an animal model simulating the osteotomy obtained in dacryocystorhinostomy. METHODS: Forty male Wistar albino rats were divided into 2 groups. Subcutaneous injections of enoxaparin 1 mg/kg (enoxaparin-treated group) and saline solution (control group) were performed once daily for 4d, beginning on the first preoperative day. The osteotomy was created at the femoral diaphysis in all animals by using a Kirschner wire. Each group was further divided into 2 subgroups depending on the timing of the second operation, 14 or 21d following initial osteotomy. Patent osteotomy area on the second and the third weeks in each group were calculated by using a computer software on digital micrographs. RESULTS: The patent osteotomy areas at the second and the third weeks were significantly larger in the enoxaparin-treated group than those of the control group (P

OBJECTIVE Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury of the spinal cord following thoracoabdominal aortic surgery remains the most devastating complication, with a life-changing impact on the patient. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main constituent of the volatile oil from Nigella sativa seeds, is reported to possess strong antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. This study investigated the effects of TQ administration following I/R injury to the spinal cord. METHODS Thirty-two rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups. Group 1 underwent only laparotomy. For Group 2, aortic clip occlusion was introduced to produce I/R injury. Group 3 was given 30 mg/kg of methylprednisolone intraperitoneally immediately after the I/R injury. Group 4 was given 10 mg/kg of TQ intraperitoneally for 7 days before induction of spinal cord I/R injury, and administration was continued until the animal was euthanized. Locomotor function (Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan scale and inclined plane test) was assessed at 24 hours postischemia. Spinal cord tissue samples were harvested to analyze tissue concentrations of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor–α, interleukin-1, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-peroxidase, catalase, and caspase-3. In addition, histological and ultrastructural evaluations were performed. RESULTS Thymoquinone treatment improved neurological outcome, which was supported by decreased levels of oxidative products (malondialdehyde and nitric oxide) and proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor–α and interleukin-1), increased activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione-peroxidase, and catalase), as well as reduction of motor neuron apoptosis. Light microscopy and electron microscopy results also showed preservation of tissue structure in the treatment group. CONCLUSIONS As shown by functional, biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural analysis, TQ exhibits an important protective effect against I/R injury of the spinal cord.

Background: To examine the detailed anatomy of the normal temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in a large series of patients divided into different age groups. Materials and methods: Cone-beam computed tomography images of 100 patients included in the study. Morphometric analysis regarding mandibular con- dyle and mandibular fossa, articular tubercle and the zygomatic arch was done. The volumetric and surface measurements of mandibular condyles (total tissue volume [TV], total bone volume [BV], bone surface area [BS] and percentage of bony tissue of the mandibular condyle [BV/TV]) were also measured. Results: Statistical analysis was performed and statistically significant differences according to the side of the joint, sex, and age groups were reported. Additionally, correlations between aging and all of these parameters were also determined. Conclusions: TV, BV, BS and BV/TV parameters according to side, age, and sex groups were defined for normal TMJ which may help to understand the onset and progress of TMJ disorders.

Objectives: Fossa pterygopalatina is located posterior to maxillary sinus, anterior to pterygoid plates and inferior to greater sphenoid wing. Tumors that arise in fossa pterygopalatina are usually asymptomatic and often discovered at late stage. Because of its deep and relative inaccessible location, clinical examination of fossa pterygopalatina is difficult. Aplastic or nonvisible foramen rotundum may give an early indication for the regional tumors. Methods: In the present study, foramen rotundum was visualized as a round structure with prominent sclerotic margins located near ethmoid cells, maxillary sinus or orbital cavity in X ray images. X-rays (radiographs) of 17 dry skulls and 7 half dry skulls were performed with Phillips Digital Diagnost X-Ray device. All dry skulls were positioned similar to Caldwell’s view. We have designed a fixation apparatus to optimize the positioning of dry skulls and half skulls. After fixation of the skulls with the apparatus, the X-ray beam centered about 3–4 cm below the external occipital protuberance with an angle of 15 degrees to the chantomeatal line. Each radiologic image was examined for the location of foramen rotundum in relation with orbital cavity, ethmoidal cells and maxillary sinuses. We described the characteristic of foramen rotundum with count and percent values. Results: In the present study, 41 foramina rotunda were analyzed. Out of 41 foramina rotunda, twenty were right-sided, twenty one were left-sided. Of the 20 right-sided foramina rotunda, 19 were visible on X-ray images. On the other side 18 of 21 leftsided foramina rotunda were apparent. 14 of 19 visible right-sided foramina rotunda were identified in the orbital cavity (73.68%). Three of them were identified in ethmoidal cells, and two in the maxillary sinus. 11 of 18 visible left-sided foramina rotunda were identified in the orbital cavity (61.11%). Two of these were found in ethmoidal cells, eight in the maxillary sinus. Out of 17 dry skulls, one had bilateral nonvisible foramina rotunda. Conclusion: Foramen rotundum must be taken into consideration in evaluation of routine X-rays to prevent misdiagnosis of the patients with persistent non-specific symptoms.

Bozok, Sahin/0000-0002-1256-5055; Musabak, Ugur/0000-0003-1511-7634; Sargon, Mustafa Fevzi/0000-0001-6360-6008 WOS: 000384800700018 PubMed: 27841912 Aim: To investigate and compare uncoated and phosphoryl-choline-coated oxygenators in terms of induction of humoral immune response during coronary artery bypass surgery. Methods: A total of 20 consecutive patients who underwent coronary artery bypass surgery were randomly distributed into two groups according to the type of oxygenator used during surgery. Group 1 consisted of 10 patients who were operated on using phosphorylcholine-coated oxygenators. Group 2 contained 10 patients who underwent surgery using uncoated oxygenators. Blood and oxygenator fibre samples were obtained and compared in terms of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM), complements (C3c, C4), serum total protein and albumin levels using electron microscopy and flow cytometry. Results: in group 1, levels of IgM, IgG, total protein and serum albumin were significantly increased at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) compared to those at the beginning of CPB. in group 2, C3c and C4 levels at the beginning of CPB were found to be significantly higher than at the end. Electron microscopic examination of oxygenator fibres demonstrated that phosphorylcholine-coated fibres were less likely to be adsorbed by serum proteins and complements than the uncoated fibres. Conclusion: Our results indicate that phosphorylcholine-coated oxygenators seemed to induce humoral immune response to a lesser extent than uncoated oxygenators during coronary artery bypass procedures.

In women, stress urinary incontinence is the most common subtype of urinary incontinence. Trans-obturator slings can be usedfor minimally invasive treatment of stress urinary incontinence. The aim of this procedure is to place the mesh through the obturator foramen and underneath the mid part of the urethra with minimal damage to surrounding tissues. There are remarkablevariations in the bony architecture of the female pelvis, and this variability may have an important effect on sling operations.Understanding the surgical anatomy of the obturator foramen, pelvic floor and perineum is necessary to make a successfulimplantation of transobturator tape and minimize morbidity. Cadaveric dissections are helpful to demonstrate anatomic land marks.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to test folate-conjugated cyclodextrin nanoparticles (FCD-1 and FCD-2) as a vehicle for reducing toxicity and increasing the antitumor efficacy of paclitaxel especially for metastatic breast cancer. Methods: For the evaluation of PCX-loaded FCD nanoparticles, animal studies were realised in terms of survival rate, tumour size, weight change, metastazis and histopathological examination. Results: FCD-1 displayed significant advantages such as efficient targeting of folate receptor positive breast cancer cells and having considerably lower toxicity compared to that of Cremophor®. When loaded with paclitaxel, FCD-1 nanoparticles, which have smaller particle size, neutral zeta potential, high encapsulation efficiency and better loading capacity for controlled release, emerged as an effective formulation in terms of cytotoxicity and high cellular uptake. In an experimental breast cancer model, anticancer activity of these nanoparticles were compatible with that of paclitaxel in Cremophor® however repeated administrations of FCD-1 nanoparticles were better tolerated by the animals. These nanoparticles were able to localise in tumour site. Both paclitaxel-loaded FCD-1 and FCD-2 significantly reduced tumour burden while FCD-1 significantly improved the survival. Conclusions: Folate-conjugated amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles can be considered as promising Cremophor®-free, low-toxicity and efficient active drug delivery systems for paclitaxel.

WOS: 000448045000028, PubMed ID: 30393502, Introduction: Tetracosactide is an engineered peptide that applies the same biological impacts as the endogenous adrenocorticotropic hormone. Previous studies indicated that tetracosactide has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neurotrophic activity. In this study, we hypothesized that tetracosactide may have protective effects in spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury. Material and methods: Rabbits were randomized into the accompanying four groups of eight animals each: group 1 (control), group 2 (ischemia), group 3 (methylprednisolone) and group 4 (tetracosactide). In the control group, just a laparotomy was performed. In the various groups, the spinal cord ischemia model was made by the impediment of the aorta only caudal to the renal vein. Neurological assessment was conducted with the Tarlov scoring system. Levels of myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde and catalase were analyzed, similar to the activities of xanthine oxidase and caspase-3. Histopathological and ultrastructural assessments were additionally performed. Results: After ischemia-reperfusion injury, increments were found in the tissue myeloperoxidase levels (p < 0.001), malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.001), xanthine oxidase action (p < 0.001) and caspase-3 movement (p < 0.001). Conversely, both serum and tissue catalase levels were diminished (p < 0.001 for both). After the administration of tetracosactide, declines were seen in the tissue myeloperoxidase levels (p < 0.001), malondialdehyde levels (p = 0.003), xanthine oxidase action (p < 0.001) and caspase-3 movement (p < 0.001). Conversely, both the serum and tissue catalase levels were expanded (p < 0.001). Besides, tetracosactide treatment indicated enhanced results related to the histopathological scores (p < 0.001), the ultra-structural score (p = 0.008) and the Tarlov scores (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings showed for the first time that tetracosactide shows significant neuroprotective activity against ischemia-reperfusion injury of the spinal cord.

There is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of severe neurological trauma, such as stroke and spinal cord injuries. However, many drugs with potential neuropharmacological activity, such as adenosine, are inefficient upon systemic administration because of their fast metabolization and rapid clearance from the bloodstream. Here, we show that conjugation of adenosine to the lipid squalene and the subsequent formation of nanoassemblies allows prolonged circulation of this nucleoside, providing neuroprotection in mouse stroke and rat spinal cord injury models. The animals receiving systemic administration of squalenoyl adenosine nanoassemblies showed a significant improvement of their neurologic deficit score in the case of cerebral ischaemia, and an early motor recovery of the hindlimbs in the case of spinal cord injury. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that the nanoassemblies were able to extend adenosine circulation and its interaction with the neurovascular unit. This Article shows, for the first time, that a hydrophilic and rapidly metabolized molecule such as adenosine may become pharmacologically efficient owing to a single conjugation with the lipid squalene.

The presence of splenorenal shunt without existence of any underlying pathology such as liver cirrhosis, portal hypertensionor hepatic encephalopathy, accompanied with normal splenic venous drainage is extremely rare. This case report presents asplenorenal shunt between splenic and left renal vein in a 59-year-old female patient with abdominal pain. No underlyingpathology was present. The splenic embryology and contrast enhanced multidetector computed tomography findings ofsplenorenal shunt have been reported accompanied with a brief review of literature.

Mitomycin C (MMC) has shown potent efficacy against a wide spectrum of cancers and is clinical first choice in superficial bladder tumors. However, intravesical chemotherapy with MMC has been ineffective due to periodical discharge of the bladder and instability of this drug in acidic pH, both resulting in high rate of tumor recurrence and insufficiency to prevent progression. Nanocarriers may be a promising alternative for prolonged, effective and safe intravesical drug delivery due to their favorable size, surface properties and optimum interaction with mucosal layer of the bladder wall. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate and optimize cationic core-shell nanoparticles formulations (based on chitosan (CS) and poly-µ-caprolactone (PCL)) in terms of antitumor efficacy after intravesical administration in bladder tumor induced rat model. Antitumor efficacy was determined through the parameters of survival rate and nanoparticle penetration into the bladder tissue. Safety of the formulations were evaluated by histopathological evaluation of bladder tissue as well as observation of animals treated with MMC bound to nanoparticles. Results indicated that chitosan coated poly-µ-caprolactone (CS-PCL) nanoparticles presented the longest survival rate among all treatment groups as evaluated by Kaplan-Meier plotting. Histopathological evaluation revealed that cationic nanoparticles were localized and accumulated in the bladder tissue. As intravesical chemotherapy is a local therapy, no MMC was quantified in blood after intravesical instillation indicating no systemic uptake for the drug which could have subsequently led to side effects. In conclusion, core-shell type cationic nanoparticles may be effective tools for the intravesical chemotherapy of recurrent bladder tumors. © 2014 Elsevier B.V., 109S172 EA-TUBA-GEBIP/2001-2-11, Authors would like to acknowledge TUBITAK Scientific Research Project ( 109S172 ) for financial support of this study. Alper B. Iskit has been supported by the Turkish Academy of Sciences , in the framework of the Young Scientist Award Program ( EA-TUBA-GEBIP/2001-2-11 ).

Objective: Diversities in ischemia time and injury assessment criteria used in Langendorff perfused isolated heart models complicate evaluation of the results. In this study, relationship between myocardial func - tional recovery, tissue viability and ultrastructural changes following ischemia were investigated in order to de - termine criteria which should be used to make precise interpretations. Material and Methods: Hearts were perfused in the constant flow Langendorff mode and were subjected to either continuous perfusion (Control), or to 15 (Ischemia15), 30 (Ischemia30) or 45 (Ischemia45) minutes ischemia followed by 30 minutes reperfusion. Left ventricular developed pressure, maximum contraction and relaxation rates, heart rate, arrhythmia incidence and duration were evaluated. Coronary effluent and heart cross-sections were used for creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) measurements and morphological studies, respectively. Results: All functional parameters remained unchanged in Control and Ischemia15 groups. In Ischemia30 group, LVDP, +dP/dtmax and -dP/dtmax declined in early reperfusion, +dP/dtmax returned to basal values and heart rate declined at the end of reperfusion. In Ischemia45 group, all functional parameters except for heart rate declined in early reperfusion and returned to basal values at the end of reperfusi on. Arrhythmia scores increased in all hearts subjected to ischemia. CK-MB was not elevated and triphenyltetrasolium staining showed that tissues were viable in Control, Ischemia15 and Ischemia30 groups. Necrotic fields were found and CK-MB increased in Ischemia45 group. Despite low myofibril scores, most marked ultrastructural pathological changes were found in Ischemia15 group. As ischemia time increased, the ultrastruc - tural changes expressed as edema, glycogen, mitochondria and nuclei scores decreased. Conclusion: Our findings show that functional parameters should be evaluated in conjunction with morphological and biochemical data to make precise interpretation in ischemia reperfusion studies in isolated Langendorff perfused rat hearts.

We aimed to investigate the exact localization of neural pathway and the frequency of nerve fibers, which are located in the pelvic facial layers in the prostate and periprostatic regions.We used four fresh frozen cadavers in this trial. Anatomical layers of anterior rectus fascia and abdominal rectus muscle were dissected to reach the retropubic area. Prostate, visceral and parietal pelvic fascia, levator ani muscle and puboprostatic ligaments were identified. Nine tissue samples, each 1x1 cm in size, were obtained from each cadaver and grouped separately. The locations of these samples are as follows. Group G I from 12 o'clock (apical region), G II from right prostatic apex, G III from 2 o'clock, G IV from right far pelvic lateral, G V from 5 o'clock, G VI from 7 o'clock, GVII from left far pelvic lateral, G VIII from 10 o'clock and G IX from left prostatic apex. Nerve distribution, frequency and diameters of these 9 groups were compared to each other.36 specimens were obtained from 4 cadavers. Mean number of nerve fibers was 14.1. The number of nerve fibers in each location were not statistically different from each other (P = .9). Mean nerve diameter was 89.1 µm. Mean diameter of nerves was statistically different between groups II, III IV and VI and VIII (P = .001). No difference was seen amongst others.The distributions of nerve fibers at prostate and peri-prostatic region were homogeneous while the nerve diameters varied amongst the different regions.

WOS:000392918000010, PubMed ID: 27717559, Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the omentum, peritoneum, paratenon and skeletal muscle on the proliferation of the cartilage tissue using rabbit model as an in vivo culture medium. Methods: 6 months old forty-five New Zealand rabbits were randomized into omentum, peritoneum, muscle, and Achilles paratenon groups. Standard sized osteochondral grafts were harvested from right knees and immediately placed into the specified tissues. Control group was fresh cartilage at the end of follow-up. After five months, samples were collected and evaluated macroscopically by measuring their dimensions (vertical ¼ D1, horizontal ¼ D2, and depth ¼ D3) and volumes, and histologically by counting the chondrocyte number using camera lucida method. Results: Macroscopically, increase in mean values for D1 and D2 dimensions of specimens from paratenon and omentum compared to pretransplant dimensions was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Although, volume measurements were higher in omentum and peritoneum group compared to pretransplant dimensions, increase was not significant (p > 0.05). Histologically, mean chondrocyte count was 14.0 ± 0.6 in fresh articular cartilage. Mean chondrocyte counts were 14.4 ± 0.9 in omentum group, 15.4 ± 1.0 in peritoneum group, 9.7 ± 1.3 in muscle group and 9.2 ± 0.4 in Achilles paratenon group respectively. However, mean chondrocyte counts were higher in samples of omentum and peritoneum group compared to fresh articular cartilage, increase was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Discussion: Transplantation of the cartilage grafts into mesothelium enhanced the chondrocyte counts and volumes compared with the pretransplant measurements. Mesothelium may have the potential to be used as an in vivo culture medium for osteochondral tissue growth.

The goal of most acute therapies for spinal cord injury (SCI) in humans include attenuation of the early inflammatory response and may limit the extent of tissue injury and the consequent disability.The purpose of this study was to investigate the early effects of methothrexate (MTX) treatment on myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and ultrastructural findings in the injured and uninjured spinal cords of rats. The effects of MTX treatment were also compared with methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MPSS) treatment.Wistar rats were divided into seven groups: control; trauma alone (50 g/cm weight drop trauma); SCI + MPSS (30 mg/kg); SCI + low-dose (0.5 mg/kg) MTX (LDMTX); SCI + higher-dose (1 mg/kg) MTX (HDMTX); non-trauma + LDMTX; non-trauma + HDMTX.Administration of MTX and MPSS treatments significantly decreased MPO activity (p0.05) and MDA level (p0.05) in the first 24 h. The MTX treatments, particularly HDMTX, were more effective than MPSS in reducing MPO activity, and MTX treatments were also more effective than MPSS in reducing MDA level (p0.05). The MTX treatment was more protective on large- and medium-diameter myelinated axons in minimizing ultrastructural changes in the spinal-cord-injured rats, but did not induce neurotoxicity in normal spinal cord.The results of this study indicate that MTX treatment has a beneficial effect by reducing early neutrophil infiltration and the associated lipid peroxidation, and has significantly protective effects on the injured spinal cord tissue in the first 24 h after SCI. Given the anti-inflammatory properties of MTX, a single dose of MTX a week is used for non-neoplastic disease in humans, and MTX may have a beneficial role in the immediate management of acute SCI.

The purpose of this study is to elucidate if there is an additive or supra-additive toxic effects of radiotherapy (RT) and trastuzumab (T) on vascular structures when used concomitantly.Female Wistar albino rats were treated with either 8 or 15 Gy of thoracic RT. T was applied i.p. with a dose of 6 mg/kg 2 h before RT. Four rats in each arm were killed at 6th h, 21st and 70th days after irradiation and thoracic aorta of each animal was dissected for electron microscopy. In addition, functional studies for evaluating the relaxation and contraction were carried out 21 days after RT.Only 15-Gy RT dose groups showed significant difference in terms of functional deterioration as more contraction than the others (P0.05) without any difference between RT and RT + T. However, T produced additional deficit in relaxation when added to RT, which was considered near significant (P: 0.0502). Electron microscopy showed endothelial and subendotelial damage signs in 15-Gy dose groups. T + 15-Gy arm showed more pronounced endothelial cell damage than 15-Gy RT-only arm, 70 days after RT.T and high-dose RT may lead to vascular damage that seems at least additive.

Objectives: Because of the developing and standardizing urology resident education, we aimed to show important anatomical landmarks of nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy in a cadaveric dissection.Methods: The steps of the dissection were; 1) Incision of pelvic fascia, 2) Dissection of the puboprostatic complex, 3) Dissection of the urethral sphincteric complex and apical dissection of the prostate and urethra, 4) Dissection of the posterior part of the prostate, 5) Preservation of the neurovascular bundle (included the cavernous nerve of the penis), pedicle dissection, and 6) Dissection of bladder neck, seminal vesicle and ductus deference.Results: At the end of the dissection, proved anatomical landmarks were; 1) parietal pelvic fascia, tendinous arc, internal obturator fascia, 2) puboprostatic ligament, pubic symphysis, deep dorsal penile vein, 3) external urethral sphincter, levator ani muscle, neurovascular bundle, 4) rectoprostatic fascia, seminal vesicles, perirectal fat tissue, 5) cavernous nerve, capsular artery and vein, levator fascia, periprostatic fascia, prostatic capsule, 6) Bladder neck, deferent duct, detrusor apron.Conclusion: Uniformity of terminology and identical definitions of structures in both cadaveric dissection and surgery might help to improve comprehensibility of anatomical and surgical knowledge of the young urological surgeons and anatomists.

Atorvastatin is commonly used as a cholesterol lowering agent in patients. Recently, the neuroprotective effects of atorvastatin became the focus of many research studies. In this study, we have formulated chitosan microspheres containing atorvastatin calcium. In-vitro characterization of chitosan microspheres and quantification of atorvastatin calcium from formulations were also evaluated. The neuroprotective efficiency of atorvastatin calcium was investigated by an experimental spinal cord injury model. Atorvastatin calcium microspheres were implanted at the laminectomy area (1 mg/kg) immediately after trauma. Twenty-four hours after injury, motor functions of animals were scored according to modified Tarlov Scale. In spinal cord tissues tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6 and lipid peroxidation levels were quantified and ultrastructural changes have been investigated. The results of all parameters indicate that microspheres containing atorvastatin calcium were capable of improving functional outcome, attenuating the expression of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6; lowering lipid peroxidation levels and maintaining the preservation of the cellular uniformity.

For bladder cancer, intravesical chemo/immunotherapy is widely used as adjuvant therapy after surgical transurethral resection. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is a live attenuated Mycobacterium of the same family as tuberculosis, that is capable of inducing a local inflammatory response upon instillation into the bladder. Intravesical therapy with BCG has proved to be more effective in the prophylaxis and treatment of superficial bladder tumors than most chemotherapeutic agents used for the same indication. However, compared to intravesical chemotherapy, BCG immunotherapy provokes more pronounced local and systemic reactions. In addition to the commonly induced granulomatous inflammatory changes in the bladder, which produce irritative symptoms, this therapy may cause systemic side effects varying from mild malaise and fever to, in rare instances, lifethreatening or fatal sepsis. Nanoparticles with positive surface charge and mucoadhesive properties were developed to overcome these side effects. Hence, the aim of this study was to optimize and evaluate cationic chitosan (CS) nanoparticles encapsulating BCG in terms of antitumor efficacy after intravesical administration in bladder tumor, induced in rat model. It was found that nanoparticle formulations of 269-375 nm in size can be produced with 42% encapsulation efficiency. The zeta potential was positive and was suitable for intravesical administration. Antitumor efficacy was determined over the parameters of histopathological evaluation, survival rate and mean bladder weight in comparison to treatment with commercial BCG solution. Concerning survival rates, BCG-loaded chitosan nanoparticles resulted in significantly longer survival than BCG commercial product (up to 86 days of survival with no systemic side effects). When compared to healthy bladder weight averages, all groups (especially BCG commercial solution) showed higher bladder weights confirming tumor formation. Histopathological findings confirmed antitumor activity in all treatment groups and optimum findings were observed in groups treated with CS nanoparticles encapsulating BCG. At the same time, significant nanoparticle accumulation in bladder tissues was observed especially for BCG-loaded CS group. In this study, it was clearly observed that cationic CS nanoparticles provide a significantly improved perspective in intravesical immunotherapy of bladder tumors. Copyright © 2015 American Scientific Publishers.

Background: As far as our literature searches showed us, morphological characteristics of cranium such as sutures, sutural bones and fontanelles had been examined in the skulls in the museums and dry specimens until now. As a modern method, three-dimensional virtual reconstruction of cranial bones by using multidetector computed tomography-computed tomography angiography (MDCT-CTA) can display in vivo morphological characteristics. In our study, we aimed to determine the presence and incidence of these morphological characteristics that can be clinically significant in our population, by using radiologic methods. Materials and methods: We examined head and neck regions of 185 patients via MDCT-CTA. We evaluated radiologically detectable variations of the metopic sutures, lambda, bregma, asterion and pterion, which can be very easily confused with fractures. Additionally, the differences between the genders and incidence of coexistence of these variations were evaluated. Results: According to our study, the incidence of persistent metopic suture was 8.1% and the incidence of lambda variations was 5.9%. Variations were most commonly encountered on the left asterion, and least commonly on the bregma and left pterion. In the evaluation of the coexistence of the parameters and combinations, the Wormian bones located at the right and left asterions were detected. There were no statistically significant differences between genders. Conclusions: Variations of the sutures and sutural bones can be easily misdiagnosed with the fractures of related bony regions in unconscious patients with multiple traumas. During surgical interventions in these patients, surgeons must take this fact into consideration in order to make differential diagnosis of fractures and intersutural bone variations.

Objective: In this study, we aimed to examine the ultrastructural characteristics of nasal mucosa in patients with atrophic rhinitis and reported our findings. Methods: The biopsy specimens were obtained from two children and three adult patients, who had some or all of the classical manifestations of atrophic rhinitis. The tissue samples were prepared according to routine histological scanning electron microscopic tissue preparation procedure and examined using scanning electron microscope. The study was carried out in the electron microscopy laboratory of the Anatomy Department of Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey, between February 2001 and March 2003. Results: Squamous epithelium showing keratinization was observed in large areas. Additionally, desquamation of the horny cells of the nasal mucosa epithelium was found. The findings obtained in this study were in accordance with preview studies. Besides all these, we also observed accumulation of bacteria, especially the cocci in some focal regions. This accumulation of the bacteria may play a very important role in the etiology of the disease. Conclusion: Depending upon to the difficulty of finding patients with atrophic rhinitis, even the few number of cases observed in this study will have an importance for the ultrastructural characteristics of the disease.

During routine gross anatomical dissection of the right forearm and hand region of a 61 year old male cadaver, an unusual muscle originating from the tendon of palmaris longus muscle was observed. This muscle originated 3.1 cm proximal to the proximal end of flexor retinaculum and coursed superficial to the retinaculum to reach the hypothenar region. In the hypothenarregion, 5.2 cm distal to the proximal end of flexor retinaculum, the muscle fibers became tendinous and this tendon was inserted to the medial side of the base of fifth proximal phalanx. In this cadaver, muscle fibers of flexor digiti minimi brevis was also inserted to the medial side of this variant tendon in a unipennate manner and reached to its final insertion. Our case is unique and the possibility of the presence of such an anomalous huge muscle must always be remembered by the clinicians when a patient has findings of ulnar nerve compression syndrome or hypovascularity symptoms in the hand area due to the compression of ulnar artery.

Plastination is the method of long term preservation of the biological tissues with completely visible surface and high durability. The plastinates are devoid of harmful effects of formalin and they serve as excellent teaching tools in education. Additionally, plastination is an outstanding tool to study cross-sectional anatomy. The three major methods used in plastination are silicone plastination, sheet plastination with epoxy method and sheet plastination with polyester method. Silicone plastination is the most versatile technique which can be used for the cadavers, organs, portions and slices. Fresh or formalin-fixed (embalmed) specimens can be plastinated with this technique. More flexible specimens can be obtained if fresh tissues are preferred. Silicone plastination consists of five main steps. These are the preparation of the specimen (dissection and fixation if necessary), dehydration, defatting (degreasing), forced impregnation and curing (hardening). Epoxy plastination preserves 2-5 mm slices of biological tissues by using epoxy resins. In this technique, all tissue fluid and a significant amount of fatty tissue is replaced with a curable epoxy resin mixture. Epoxy plastination method provides precise semi-transparent sectional specimens and in these preparations; gross anatomical structures can be examined with the naked eye in a superb quality down to a sub macroscopic level. Polyester plastination and classic silicone plastination techniques utilize the similar basic principles. In polyester plastination method, the tissue fluid is removed and is replaced with a curable polyester resin. This method can be used for head brain and body slices.

OBJECTIVE: Cadaveric dissection is used as a major tool for anatomy education at the medical school. In this study we aimed to determine how a uro-anatomy cadaveric dissection course would impact urology residents knowledge. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A three days course was given to 50 urology residents by experienced trainers in 1-3 June 2012 at Ege University Medical School's Anatomy Department, Izmir, Turkey. Efficacy of the course was assessed using a multiple choice questionnaire of 20 questions given before and after the course. RESULTS: Completed questionnaires before and after the course were available for 25 residents (50%) that were included. Residents answered correctly to 11.7 out of 20 questions (59%) before the course and 13.0 out of 20 (65%) after (p

TOF repair can be performed with low morbidity and mortality in many centers. However, some patients can experience a prolonged, troublesome postoperative recovery, associated with higher inotopic scores, extended duration of ventilation, longer intensive care and hospital stays. Underlying pathophysiologic explanation for this concept can be defined as combined myocyte injury and fibrosis in right ventricle of patients with TOF that occurred in response to chronic hypoxia and volume overload, even before corrective surgery.

We investigated the effect of aminoguanidine (AG) administration on GBM thickness, glomerular heparan sulfate (HS) content, and urinary albumin and HS excretion in diabetic rats. After induction of diabetes, female Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups: Group AGDM (n=11) received 1g/L aminoguanidine bicarbonate in drinking water, group DC (n=12) was given only tap water. Control rats received AG (group AGH, n=8) or tap water (group HC, n=8). At the end of a period of 8 weeks, urinary albumin and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) excretion was detected. GBM heparan sulfate distribution and count was determined under the electron microscope. The AGDM group had lower urinary albumin and GAG excretion than diabetic controls. GBM thickness was increased in diabetic rats compared to groups of AGDM and HC. In AGDM group alcian blue stained particle distribution and count in the GBM was similar to healthy controls. In conclusion AG prevents the decrease of anionic charged molecules in the GBM and GBM thickening. This can be one of the mechanisms by which AG decreases albuminuria in diabetic rats.

The digastric muscles of 99 cadavers were examined bilaterally. In 5 of them, the digastric muscles showed different types of complex abnormalities. These complex anomalies should be kept in mind in functional studies involving the floor of mouth and evaluating the same structures with CT and MR imaging. Secondly, the embryological basis of the isolated anomalies of the anterior digastric muscle with respect to its occurrence together with the mylohyoid muscle stressed in this article needs further studies of their development from the first branchial arch.

To compare the efficacy of herbal based and synthetic hemostatic agents in partial nephrectomy.Our experimental study was carried out at the Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey between May and November 2012. Twenty rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. Intracorporeal sutures (group K), TachoSil (group T), HaemoCer (group H), and Ankaferd Blood Stopper (group A) were used to achieve hemostasis in partial nephrectomy. Warm ischemia time (WIT), hemostasis time (HT), and blood loss for all groups were measured. The specimens were examined histopathologically and electron microscopically after sacrificing the rats.The fastest hemostasis was detected in group T, followed by group H, and group A. The WIT and HT were significantly different for all groups (p0.001). The greatest blood loss was found in group K. The histopathologic examination revealed that the giant cell reaction in group K was significantly more than in group H and group A (p0.001). No pathologic findings were observed in the ultrastructural examination of specimens taken from group K. On ultrastructural examination of group T, tubule cells had many vacuoles in their cytoplasm with marked intracellular edema. Ultrastructural findings for groups H and A were similar.At the histopathologic and ultrastructural levels, herbal-based hemostatic agents had a positive impact on renal tissue and glomerular function when applied during partial nephrectomy.

We aimed to examine the basilar artery in an experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) model both from the ultrastructural and radiological aspects and tried to evaluate the benefit of proanthocyanidin (PC), an antioxidant matter, in reducing vasospasm.A total of 21 male New Zealand rabbits were divided into three groups after performing angiography. Group I: Control group, Group II: Subarachnoid hemorrhage group, Group III: Subarachnoid hemorrhage and Proanthocyanidin group (100 mg/kg/ day). Rabbits were sacrificed on the 5th day after angiography. A segment of the basilar artery, 4 mm in length, was prepared for ultrastructural examination.There was no ultrastructural or radiological abnormality in the basilar artery in Group 1. In the basilar artery digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of Group 2, a statistically significant decrease in basilar artery calibration was found (p0.05). There was no damage in the endothelium, subendothelium, tunica media and adventitia of the basilar artery ultrastructurally but a statistically significant narrowing in lumen diameter was seen. There was also no difference in basilar artery calibration in the DSA of Group 3 (p0.05). No damage was seen in the basilar artery ultrastructurally.Proanthocyanidin with its strong antioxidant effect and possible vasomotor action can significantly attenuate SAH-induced vasospasm.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of dose rate (DR) on lung tissue. The rats included in the study were randomly grouped into 3 groups: Group (G) 1 was defined as control group, and in this group rats were sham irradiated. G2 was the group receiving a single dose of 12 Gy in DR of 300 monitor unit (MU)/min. G3 was the group receiving a single dose of 12 Gy in DR of 600 MU/min. Radiotherapy (RT) was applied under general anesthesia with 6-MV photon beams to both lungs. At the 6th and 16th week of the RT, animals from each group were killed for light and electron microscopy evaluation. We evaluated the scores of each group in the 6th and the 16th week and found that in G2, there were significant increases in the perivascular fibrosis ( P = .018), interstitial fibrosis ( P = .002), total inflammation ( P = .040), and total fibrosis ( P = .003) scores. In G3, we found statistically significant increases in perivascular fibrosis ( P = .001), interstitial fibrosis ( P = .002), and total fibrosis scores ( P = .029). There was no significant difference in the total inflammation score in G3 ( P = .225). When we compare G2 and G3 in the 6th week, we found significant increase in the interstitial thickening ( P = .039) and total inflammation ( P = .035) scores in G3. Dose rate per fraction may have an impact on normal tissue toxicity. The prominent effect of increased DR in lung tissue is fibrosis which should be kept in mind, especially in cases where higher doses per fraction are used.

Background: The first aim of this study was the quantification of nerve fibres found in terminal branches of facial nerve and the second aim was the ultrastructural analysis of these terminal branches in order to observe their ultrastructural differences, if present. In the examination of literature; we could not find any studies related to this subject. Materials and methods: Four fresh frozen head and neck specimens were used and the dissections were done bilaterally. Therefore; totally 8 samples were examined. The samples were prepared according to routine transmission electron microscopic tissue preparation technique. The semi-thin sections were examined under light microscope by camera lucida. In every sample, the quantitative analysis was performed in 5 different areas in an area of 0.01 mm2 and statistical analysis was done. Secondly; the ultrastructural appearance of these terminal branches were examined under transmission electron microscope. Results: In the quantitative analysis of terminal branches of facial nerve in an area of 0.01 mm2; the least number of nerve fibres were found in temporal branches and the highest number were detected in cervical branches. In transmission electron microscopic examination, no significant difference was found in between these branches. In the statistical analysis; statistically significant differences were obtained in between the temporal and buccal, marginal mandibular, cervical branches; zygomatic and marginal mandibular, cervical branches; buccal and marginal mandibular, cervical branches; marginal mandibular and cervical branches. Conclusions: These numerical data will have an importance during the nerve repair process of terminal branches of facial nerve in various injuries. (Folia Morphol 2014; 73, 1: 24–29)

Diabetes is a well- identified major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of diabetes and impact of glycemic control on internal thoracic artery (ITA) morphology by electron microscopy.Thirty patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting were enrolled in this study. Samples of ITA were taken during the surgery for electron microscopic evaluation. Group I (n = 10) consisted of diabetics who have poor glycemic control (HbA1c7.5%), group II (n = 10) of well-regulated (HbA1c = 4.4% to 6.2%) diabetic patients, and group III (n = 10) of nondiabetic patients. Samples were prepared as ultrathin sections and an original semiquantitative method of scoring was applied to describe the morphologic changes of endothelium. Final scores were analyzed with analysis of variance and post hoc analysis.In group I large vacuoles, swollen mitochondria were seen in endothelial cells and subendothelial edema was prominent. Endothelia (2.5 ± 1.2), arterial wall (2.0 ± 0.0), and endothelial mitochondria (2.9 ± 1.3) scores of group I were significantly higher than the other 2 groups (p0.001). The samples of group II and group III did not show significant differences with each other. The correlation between HbA1c values and total endothelial scores statistically significant (r = 0.912; p0.001).There is a correlation between HbA1c values and morphologic changes of ITA graft. Uncontrolled diabetes is an important predictor of morphologic changes evidenced by the ultrastructural findings. These ultrastructural changes were not as prominent in the diabetes mellitus patients with well controlled metabolic statuses and patients without diabetes.