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The Robin sequence is a congenital anomaly characterized by a triad of features: micrognathia, glossoptosis, and airway obstruction. This comprehensive historical review maps the evolution of approaches and appliances for its treatment from the past to the current modern possibilities of an interdisciplinary combination of modern engineering, medicine, materials, and computer science combined approach with emphasis on designing appliances inspired by nature and individual human anatomy. Current biomimetic designs are clinically applied, resulting in appliances that are more efficient, comfortable, sustainable, and safer than legacy traditional designs. This review maps the treatment modalities that have been used for patients with a Robin sequence over the years. Early management of the Robin sequence focused primarily on airway maintenance and feeding support, while current management strategies involve both nonsurgical and surgical interventions and biomimetic biocompatible personalized appliances. The goal of this paper was to provide a review of the evolution of management strategies for patients with the Robin sequence that led to the current interdisciplinary biomimetic approaches impacting the future of Robin Sequence treatment with biomimetics at the forefront. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive immunology is at the forefront of research interests, aiming to better understand the mechanisms of immune regulation during gestation. The relationship between the immune system and the implanting embryo is profound because the embryo is semi-allogenic but not targeted by the maternal immune system, as expected in graft-versus-host reactions. The most prominent cell population at the maternal–fetal interface is the population of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells. Uterine NK cells are two-faced immunologically active cells, bearing comparison with Janus, the ancient Roman god of beginnings and endings. Their first face can be seen as natural killer cells, namely lymphocytes, which are critical for host defense against viruses and tumors. Even though uNK cells contain cytolytic molecules, their cytotoxic effect is not applied to classical target cells in vivo, playing a permissive rather than a defensive role. Their second face is crucial in maintaining physiological gestation—uNK cells show critical immunomodulatory functions with the potential to control embryo implantation and trophoblast invasion, regulate placental vascular remodeling, and promote embryonic/fetal growth. Therefore, we believe that their current designation "natural killer cells" (the first "cytotoxic" Janus's face) is misleading and inappropriate, considering their principal function is supporting and maintaining pregnancy. In this narrative review, we will focus on three lesser-known areas of knowledge about uNK cells. First, from the point of view of histology, we will comprehensively map the history of the discovery of these cells, as well as the current histological possibilities of their identification within the endometrium. To be brief, the discovery of uNK cells is generally attributed to Herwig Hamperl, one of the most influential and prominent representatives of German pathology in the 20th century, and his co-worker, Gisela Hellweg. Secondly, we will discuss the interesting aspect of terminology, since uNK cells are probably one of the human cells with the highest number of synonymous names, leading to significant discrepancies in their descriptions in scientific literature. From the first description of this cell type, they were referred to as endometrial granulocytes, granular endometrial stromal cells, or large granular lymphocytes until the end of the 1980s and the beginning of the 1990s of the last century, when the first publications appeared where the name "uterine NK cells" was used. The third area of present review is medical teaching of histology and clinical embryology. We can confirm that uNK cells are, in most textbooks, overlooked and almost forgotten cells despite their enormous importance. In the present narrative review, we summarize the lesser-known historical and terminological facts about uNK cells. We can state that within the textbooks of histology and embryology, this important cell population is still "overlooked and neglected" and is not given the same importance as in fields of clinical research and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histological terminology of the female genital organs is currently a part of the internationally accepted nomenclature Terminologia Histologica (TH), the latest edition of which dates back to 2008. Many new discoveries have been documented within 16 years since then, and many discrepancies have been found. This paper aims to revise the terminology from clinical and educational perspectives comprehensively. The authors thoroughly searched the current edition of “Terminologia Histologica: International Terms for Human Cytology and Histology,” focusing on missing and controversial terms in the chapter Female genital system. The authors identified six controversial and ambiguous terms and four missing important histological terms. The authors also discussed the addition of less used eponymic terms in the histological description of female genital organs like Hamperl cells, Popescu cells, Kroemer lacunae, Balbiani bodies, Call–Exner bodies, membrane of Slavianski, nabothian cysts, or anogenital sweat glands of van der Putte. We expect the second and revised edition of the TH to be published soon and hope that the Federative International Program on Anatomical Terminology will approve and incorporate all these propositions and suggestions. We also strongly recommend using the official internationally accepted Latin and English histological nomenclature—the TH, either in oral or written form, both in theoretical and clinical medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminology in morphological and zoological sciences is enormously important. Proper denomination of individual structures of the animal / human body from the microscopic point of view has an irreplaceable role in unambiguous understanding and communication among scientists regardless of their field of expertise. The year 2008 can be considered a crucial year in the developing of internationally accepted histological terminology, because it was the year when the first internationally renowned human histology nomenclature Terminologia Histologica was published. The current version of the Terminologia Histologica contains also the description of many microscopic organs and structures whose presence in different animal species is widely accepted, however their presence in humans is disputable. Typical examples are the haemal lymph nodes and haemal nodes, mentioned in the chapter Lymphoid organs which are secondary lymphoid organs found in many different mammalian species, but also in some birds. They are capable of performing haematopoietic and immunological functions but in the absence of lymphatic system pathology, no structures resembling haemal nodes / haemal lymph nodes have been detected in humans. Neurohaemal organs are mentioned within the chapter Endocrine system. Neurohaemal organs are known by different names, depending on the animal species studied, e.g. corpora allata or abdominal perisympathetic organs. To this date, these structures have been described in many different invertebrate species, but neurohaemal organs are also found in some lower vertebrates, in which the neurohaemal organ is referred to as "urophysis". According to our opinion, structures called neurohaemal organs in invertebrates are counterparts to circumventricular organs found in vertebrates, but cannot be named as such. Another somewhat controversial term mentioned in human histological nomenclature is the vomeronasal organ mentioned in the chapter Respiratory system. It is a specialized organ, which forms an integral supportive part of the olfaction of many mammalian species and reptiles. It is believed that the main function of vomeronasal organ is to regulate various behavioral aspects of intraspecies interaction by facilitating the detection of pheromones. The function and even existence of the vomeronasal organ in humans is a source of significant dispute among researchers. Some of them stated that vomeronasal organ disappears during fetal development, with except the vomeronasal duct. On the other hand, there are also authors who concluded that the vomeronasal organ is definitely present in adult humans. Similarly disputable question is the presence of multinucleated plasmodia in human body. This opinion article aims to open a wide scientific discussion concerning the importance and aptness of the inclusion of these terms in the human histological nomenclature despite they are probably exclusively zoological. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An official and internationally accepted cytological nomenclature has been absent until now. The first internationally accepted nomenclature Terminologia Histologica - International Terms for Human Cytology and Histology, published more than 10 years ago was authored by an ensemble of experts who worked under the auspices of the Federative International Committee on Anatomical Terminology. Terminologia Histologica is a new standard in human cell and tissue terminology. This nomenclature opens with a section dedicated to human cells entitled "Cytologia – Cytology". There are more than 500 terms listed in this section. All Latin terms are accompanied by English equivalents. With regard to synonyms for each term, several have one, two, or, rarely, three. In this opinion article, after a systematic and in-depth analysis of this current internationally accepted cytological nomenclature, we discuss about a missing important cytological terms (e.g., morphological types of nucleoli or mitochondria), missing often used synonymic terms, redundant and unused terms as well as about another disputable terms (e.g., "pigment granules" are in fact membrane-bound vesicles, therefore, the terminology should be changed to "vesicula pigmenti"). We hope that this opinion article will develop a wide scientific discussion before the publication of the second edition, so perhaps the mentioned minor flaws will be corrected, so the new edition of the Terminologia Histologica will become truly an internationally accepted communication tool for most of histologists, including cell biologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thymic myoid cells form a part of the cellular microenvironment of the thymic medulla in fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, including humans. In lower vertebrates they resemble skeletal muscle fibers at the level of light and electron microscopy, in humans they are less noticable even though they contain proteins typically found in the muscle tissue including desmin, actin, acetylcholine receptor, myosin, troponin or myogenic transcription factor. Despite the discovery of thymic myoid cells by German histologist Sigmund Mayer employed at the Charles-Ferdinand University (now Charles University) in Prague, Czech Republic, occurred exactly 130 years ago, as of today, these cells have been mentioned neither in most of the histology textbooks, nor in the histological nomenclature Terminologia Histologica. Thus, we find it appropriate to call these cells "enigmatic." In this narrative review, we focus on the historical background of the discovery of thymic myoid cells, and current opinions on their embryonic origin and functional significance during the maturation of T-lymphocytes within the thymus. Finally, we present the overview of the clinical importance of this cell population, including the notion of rare mediastinal rhabdomyomas and rhabdomyosarcomas probably originating from these cells. We also ponder over the possible connection between thymic myoid cells and the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease – myasthenia gravis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ectopic accessory thymic tissue usually presents as an asymptomatic neck mass found at any level corresponding to the embryonic descent of the thymus. This tissue may contain smaller or larger cysts. However, the exact pathogenesis of "enigmatic" cervical thymic cysts remains controversial. A 7-year-old boy was referred to our workplace for the evaluation of a cervical mass. An ultrasound suggested a multi-loculated cystic mass, while CT and MRI indicated a left-sided, anteriorly located cervical mass beneath the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Following the radiological findings, surgical excision revealed a cystic mass. The mass of tissue was covered by a capsule. In H&E staining, the cervical mass had the same structure as normal thymus. Additionally, immunohistochemical findings suggest that the cellular microenvironment of cervical thymus also displays a place for development of T-lymphocytes. Within the parenchyma multiple cysts lined with cytokeratin-positive thymic epithelial cells were found. Inside the cysts, there were CD68-positive multinucleated giant cells and cholesterol clefts. A tendency to cystic degeneration inside the thymic tissue occurs more often in cervical thymuses than in normally located ones. The reason for the formation of cysts is unknown. We summarized seven possible histological, embryological and evolutional backgrounds for the development of these thymic cysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the discovery of interstitial cells by Santiago Ramón y Cajal, a Spanish histologist that are termed as telocytes . topics discussed include discussion on the relation between interstitial cells of Cajal and the motility of the gut; views on the morphology of telocyte; and several question regarding the myths about telocyte.

The chronic low-grade inflammation of the visceral adipose tissue is now fully established as one of the main contributors to metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, subsequently leading to metabolic syndrome and other associated cardiometabolic pathologies. The orchestration of immune response and the “ratio of responsibility” of different immune cell populations have been studied extensively over the last few years within the visceral adipose tissue in general sense (sensu lato). However, it is essential to clearly distinguish different types of visceral fat distribution. Visceral adipose tissue is not only the classical omental or epididymal depot, but includes also specific type of fat in the close vicinity to the myocardium—the epicardial adipose tissue. Disruption of this type of fat during obesity was found to have a unique and direct influence over the cardiovascular disease development. Therefore, epicardial adipose tissue and other types of visceral adipose tissue depots should be studied separately. The purpose of this review is to explore the present knowledge about the morphology and dynamics of individual populations of immune cells within the visceral adipose tissue sensu lato in comparison to the knowledge regarding the epicardial adipose tissue specifically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A thorough understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and development of the spleen is essential for determining the pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning splenic diseases and congenital variations. The aim of this review is to briefly summarize current knowledge regarding the normal development of the spleen, and to provide an overview of clinically relevant congenital splenic variations. These include such variations as asplenia, polysplenia, hyposplenia, lobulation of spleen, accessory spleens, accessory splenic nodules, wandering spleen, splenogonadal and splenopancreatic fusion, splenic cysts, and cavernous haemangioma of the spleen. All of these congenital variations are also mentioned in internationally accepted embryological nomenclature, known as the Terminologia Embryologica. Interestingly, most patients who have these diseases are asymptomatic, and are often diagnosed only after an injury or during unrelated medical procedures. Using examples from published case reports, we highlight how an understanding of the embryology of the spleen and the etiology of its disease states would improve clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key morphological discoveries in recent years have included the discovery of new cell populations inside the heart called cardiac telocytes. These newly described cells of the connective tissue have extremely long cytoplasmic processes through which they form functionally connected three-dimensional networks that connect cells of the immune system, nerve fibers, cardiac stem cells, and cardiac muscle cells. Based on their functions, telocytes are also referred to as "connecting cells" or "nurse cells" for cardiac progenitor stem cells. In this critical review, we provide a summary of the latest research on cardiac telocytes localized in all layers of the heart -- from the historical background of their discovery, through ultrastructural, immunohistochemical, and functional characterizations, to the application of this knowledge to the fields of cardiology, stem cell research, and regenerative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Key discoveries of recent years comprise detection of telocytes. These cells of connective tissue have extremely long cytoplasmic processes through which they form functionally connected spatial networks. Through their processes they mutually contact and functionally connect also cells of the immune system, nerve fibres and smooth muscle cells. They are located in various parts of the female reproductive system where they can perform specifically significant functions, which are summarized in our literature review.Methods: Literature regarding "telocytes" and "interstitial Cajal-like cells" was reviewed using scientific databases PubMed/Medline, SCOPUS, and Web of Knowledge.Results: Among other things telocytes regulate peristaltic muscle movements in the uterine tubes. Their decreased activity, e.g., in inflammatory diseases or endometriosis, causes disorders of a transport function through the uterine tubes resulting in infertility or tubal pregnancy. In the uterine myometrium they are, first, responsible for regulation of muscle contraction (in expelling menstrual blood or in childbirth) and, second, they participate also in immune surveillance during embryo implantation. They likely control also uterine involution post partum. Their function in the vagina has not been elucidated yet, but probably they participate in production of slow contraction waves during sexual intercourse. In the mammary gland their function may be to regulate cellular proliferation and apoptosis, thus they may play a role also in the development and growth of tumours. In the placenta, they may monitor and regulate blood flow through chorionic villi and they participate in aetiopathogenesis of preeclampsia.Conclusion: However, all above-mentioned functions of telocytes are purely hypothetic and have been published only recently. Therefore, only further research will demonstrate whether this recently discovered cell population will really play a key role in all processes mentioned, or whether it is just an effort of scientists to clarify unknown cause of some diseases in gynaecology and obstetrics. Our literature review is completed by our own original photomicrographs documenting telocytes in various organs of the female reproductive system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to determine the effect of immunomodulatory therapy in women with chronic and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). BACKGROUND: We present recent highlights in the research into vaginal microbiome and consequences of chronic inflammation such as vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). VVC is a widespread vaginal infection primarily caused by Candida albicans. Experience of more than three episodes per year is defined as RVVC. METHODS: The strains were isolated from women suffering from the above infections as for the period of 2017 to 2021 and subsequently used in immunomodulatory treatment. The preparation and administration of autovaccination therapy was performed using standard methodology and procedures cited in the manuscript. RESULTS: In total, autovaccines were produced for 73 patients of whom 30 (41 %) were successfully cured by this treatment, 29 (40 %) experienced a partially successful treatment, and in the remaining 14 (19 %), the autovaccination therapy was ineffective. CONCLUSION: We provide current knowledge about alternative (autovaccine) treatment options for female patients with VVC and RVVC diseases and our experience with the outcomes after autovaccine administration that currently has a promising therapeutic potential (Tab. 2, Ref. 18). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R4421 --> 779.5 --> Background: Despite enormous advancements of reproductive medicine, recurrent implantation failure and habitual abortion remain an ongoing issue. One of the most important aspects of successful implantation is the intricate immune regulation necessary for the acceptance of the hemiallogenic embryo. The most numerous immune cells in the decidua are uterine Natural Killer (uNK) cells. Studies suggest that changes in the uNK cells count and physiology may be responsible for the aforementioned conditions. Thus, the uNK cells testing may provide valuable insights into their pathogenesis. Methods: We compared Pipelle endometrial sampling with conventional curettage to find out whether the less invasive Pipelle method is a viable alternative of tissue collection. Results: We examined tissue samples from 9 patients obtained by both methods. The average size of tissue samples obtained with pipelle was 10,27 mm2, samples obtained with curettage had on average 18,74 mm2. Using immunohistochemical visualization of CD56 (NK cells) and granzyme B antigens (serine protease‐expressing activation state of NK cells), we found out that the average total count of CD56 / mm2 was for pipelle 90,13 and 84,04 for curettage. We also proved a correlation between granzyme B positivity and identification of NK cells clusters. The results showed that Pipelle endometrial sampling is a suitable method of tissue harvesting for the purpose of uNK cells examination. Discussion: Pipelle endometrial sampling is safe, cost‐effective and can be performed on an outpatient basis without the need of anaesthesia or analgesia. Several issues remain to be solved: how to standardize the subsequent uNK cells testing, how to interpret the results and finally yet importantly, how to use this knowledge in personalized treatment protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The size of thymus is variable and depends on age of the individual. Thymus undergoes its maximum development at the time of birth, when it also has the greatest relative weight. The aim of our study was to compare the two ways of expressing the size of the newborns′ thymus, the Thymus index and estimated volume of thymus. Methods: The examined group consisted of 212 full-term newborns from Slovakia, Europe. We estimated the length, width and thickness of the left and right lobes. We used these data to calculate the approximate volume of the thymus. We also expressed size of the thymus as a multiple of the transverse diameter of the cranial part of the thymus and the sagittal area of the larger lobe of the thymus, the so-called Thymus index. Bilateral differences in thymus lobes′ sizes, as well as the thymus′ sizes between sexes and among the newborns of different types of birth were also analysed. Results: Our results show that (1) the left thymus lobe is longer and thicker than the right lobe; (2) the Thymus index and the estimated volume of the thymus have a strong significant and positive correlation; (3) boys reach significantly higher values of the Thymus index than girls; and (4) when comparing the differences in the thymus size between the newborns born in two different ways (spontaneous and operatively), no significant difference was discovered. Conclusion: Ultrasound examination is safe, effective and suitable for simple assessment of the thymus size, which has a great variability in children. In other hand, the use of the Thymus index in everyday clinical practice is limited due to different mean values in a number of studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durkheim analysed the mechanisms and types of institutions that create organic solidarity and prevent it from imploding for lack of moral cement. In conformity with his life-long preoccupation with the origins and role of morals, he laid great emphasis on professional ethics and civic morals, together with the institutions--professional associations ("corporations") and the state--that ought to ensure the maintenance of solidarity and avoid, or at least reduce, anomie. His considerations, explicitly or implicity, involve the concept of the sacred, its relationship to "political society" and morality, authority, democracy, citizenship and "world patriotism". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the present state of advanced western societies "hypermodernity" for various reasons. These societies have arrived at a stage when new technologies are more intrusive in manipulating the body and its image by introducing technologically driven procedures for human reproduction, for curing illnesses--actually or doing research--but also for cosmetic changes. Hypermodernity is not a break with postrnodernity but rather enhances features and tendencies inherent in postmodernity. It is not an absolute break with modernity. There is a marked tendency to returning to prernodern customs like body ornamentation or scarthcation.

The article focuses on the embodied individual in society as well as on the role culture and memory--collective as well as individual--play in the individual's actions and decisions. This involves certain psychic functions, in particular the social use of emotions and memory in constructing social links. Through the research into how the body exists in time and is manipulated in social action, we rediscover intimate functions of the self and its structural expressions in society. The body synchronizes human memory and action in chemical and physical flows that constitute the limits of its presence in the environment.

Important issues have been raised in interpreting contemporary culture. This article analyzes the essay of Professor Aziz Al-Azmeh, which contends that in modern European history, reactionary rather than liberal ideas are prevailing and that postmodernism is fundamentally a grand narrative of the irrational. The author discusses the role of human agency in shaping history.

C4d, a split product of C4 activation in classical and lectin pathways of the complement system activation, has been regarded as a footprint of tissue damage in antibody-mediated rejection in transplantology. The introduction of C4d staining into daily clinical practice aroused an ever-increasing interest in the role of antibody-mediated mechanisms in kidney allograft rejection. However, this marker of complement activation is also important in other various kidney glomerular pathologies such as immunoglobulin A nephropathy, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, lupus nephritis, and others. In routine histopathological practice, C4d staining can be done by two his tological methods, specifically by immunofluorescence on frozen tissue using monoclonal antibody to C4d (with the downside of unsteady availability of frozen tissue) or by immunohistochemistry using C4d antibodies on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded renal tissue. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize recent knowled ge about the complement fragment C4d and its significance in differe nt kidney pathologies, focusing on its immunohistochemical detection in renal tissue biopsies. We have supplemented this review with our experience with our proprietary methodology of preparation and practical use of antibodies such as anti-C4d, on a small national level. Immunohistochemical staining for C4d has revolutionized the field of renal histopathology. Despite being a simple diagnostic test, its utility can be of utmost importance, especially in a resource-poor setting where immunofluorescence and frozen tissue may not be available [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Johannes Jessenius or Ján Jesenský (1566–1621) can be considered as a contradictory and inconsistent personality of the early modern history. Being not only a physician, but also scientist, teacher, philosopher and even historian and politician, he definitively ranks among the outstanding polymaths of his time in the region of Central Europe. His scientific interest was focused on human anatomy (the first public dissection in Central Europe in 1600 and the first description of "septum scroti" in males), study of malaria, new methods of treatment in surgery, hygiene and healthy eating, examination of blood, history of education in Prague, but also human embryology and philosophical considerations about the significance of the number "seven" for human life. Jessenius life was full of moving from town to town, increases and declines, striving for positions and acknowledgement of the emperors lined with disappointment and finally, it was closed at the execution ground after he got involved in politics in turbulent period 400 years ago. He paid the highest price, his life – both for his religion and political conviction. His life was connected with places in nowadays Poland, Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary and Italy but full translations of his medical textbook themselves appear only in Slovak and Czech languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a significant global health issue. This novel virus's high morbidity and mortality rates have prompted the scientific community to quickly find the best COVID-19 model to investigate all pathological processes underlining its activity and, more importantly, search for optimal drug therapy with minimal toxicity risk. The gold standard in disease modeling involves animal and monolayer culture models; however, these models do not fully reflect the response to human tissues affected by the virus. However, more physiological 3D in vitro culture models, such as spheroids and organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), could serve as promising alternatives. Different iPSC-derived organoids, such as lung, cardiac, brain, intestinal, kidney, liver, nasal, retinal, skin, and pancreatic organoids, have already shown immense potential in COVID-19 modeling. In the present comprehensive review article, we summarize the current knowledge on COVID-19 modeling and drug screening using selected iPSC-derived 3D culture models, including lung, brain, intestinal, cardiac, blood vessels, liver, kidney, and inner ear organoids. Undoubtedly, according to reviewed studies, organoids are the state-of-the-art approach to COVID-19 modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a proof-of-concept study on the biocolonization of 3D-printed hydroxyapatite scaffolds with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Three-dimensional (3D) printed biomimetic bone structure made of calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) intended as a future bone graft was made from newly developed composite material for FDM printing. The biopolymer polyvinyl alcohol serves in this material as a thermoplastic binder for 3D molding of the printed object with a passive function and is completely removed during sintering. The study presents the material, the process of fused deposition modeling (FDM) of CDHA scaffolds, and its post-processing at three temperatures (1200, 1300, and 1400 °C), as well it evaluates the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of scaffolds with MTT and LDH release assays after 14 days. The study also includes a morphological evaluation of cellular colonization with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in two different filament orientations (rectilinear and gyroid). The results of the MTT assay showed that the tested material was not toxic, and cells were preserved in both orientations, with most cells present on the material fired at 1300 °C. Results of the LDH release assay showed a slight increase in LDH leakage from all samples. Visual evaluation of SEM confirmed the ideal post-processing temperature of the 3D-printed FDM framework for samples fired at 1300 °C and 1400 °C, with a porosity of 0.3 mm between filaments. In conclusion, the presented fabrication and colonization of CDHA scaffolds have great potential to be used in the tissue engineering of bones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a complex novel concept and methodology for the creation of personalized biomedical appliances 3D-printed from certified biocompatible photopolymer resin Dental LT Clear (V2). The explained workflow includes intraoral and CT scanning, patient virtualization, digital appliance design, additive manufacturing, and clinical application with evaluation of the appliance intended for patients with cranio-facial syndromes. The presented concept defines virtual 3D fusion of intraoral optical scan and segmented CT as sufficient and accurate data defining the 3D surface of the face, intraoral and airway morphology necessary for the 3D design of complex personalized intraoral and extraoral parts of the orthopedic appliance. A central aspect of the concept is a feasible utilization of composite resin for biomedical prototyping of the sequence of marginally different appliances necessary to keep the pace with the patient rapid growth. Affordability, noninvasiveness, and practicality of the appliance update process shall be highlighted. The methodology is demonstrated on a particular case of two-year-old infant with Pierre Robin sequence. Materialization by additive manufacturing of this photopolymer provides a highly durable and resistant-to-fracture two-part appliance similar to a Tübingen palatal plate, for example. The paper concludes with the viability of the described method and material upon interdisciplinary clinical evaluation of experts from departments of orthodontics and cleft anomalies, pediatric pneumology and phthisiology, and pediatric otorhinolaryngology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective - To investigate the frequency of positive findings within the lung bases during abdominal ultrasound (US) examinations in children with referral diagnosis not suggesting pulmonary disease. Materials and methods - A retrospective study included all children with abdominal US performed within 2 years by a single pediatric radiologist in the regional children's hospital. Of all examined children, 22 (mean 7.4 y, SD=4.2 y) had pathological findings detected within the lung bases, without referral diagnosis suggesting a pulmonary pathology. Each abdominal US included a trans-abdominal (trans-hepatic and trans-splenic) approach to both lung bases. Results - While performing abdominal US a detected pulmonary pathology included: 19 pneumonias and 3 pleuropneumonias, with the most common referral diagnosis being abdominal pain (15 children), followed by nausea and vomitting (3 children), febrile convulsiones (2 children), exacerbation of juvenile arthritis (1), and a routine follow-up a day after hydrostatic reduction of ileocolic intussusception (1). In outpatients with referral diagnosis of abdominal pain, 0.95% had positive lung base US findings. Conclusion - Each radiologist should be aware of the potential pathological finding within the lung bases when performing abdominal ultrasound in children. Its detection might have a serious impact on the patient's treatment. Introduction Abdominal ultrasound (US) in children represents one of the most frequently used diagnostic radiological procedures in daily clinical practice, with the most common referral diagnosis being acute abdominal pain. The causes of acute abdominal pain in children which stand out are: constipation, mesenteric lymphadenitis, acute appendicitis, gastroenteritis and ileocolic intussusception (1). However, the causes of acute abdominal pain in children can also be of extra-abdominal origin, of which pneumonia is the most prominent [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Teeth, in humans, represent the most resilient tissues. However, exposure to concentrated acids might lead to their dissolving, thus making human identification difficult. Teeth often contain dental restorations from materials that are even more resilient to acid impact. This paper aims to introduce a novel method for the 3D reconstruction of dental patterns as a crucial step for the digital identification of dental records. (2) With a combination of modern methods, including micro-computed tomography, cone-beam computer tomography, and attenuated total reflection, in conjunction with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and artificial intelligence convolutional neural network algorithms, this paper presents a method for 3D-dental-pattern reconstruction, and human remains identification. Our research studies the morphology of teeth, bone, and dental materials (amalgam, composite, glass-ionomer cement) under different periods of exposure to 75% sulfuric acid. (3) Our results reveal a significant volume loss in bone, enamel, dentine, as well as glass-ionomer cement. The results also reveal a significant resistance by the composite and amalgam dental materials to the impact of sulfuric acid, thus serving as strong parts in the dental-pattern mosaic. This paper also probably introduces the first successful artificial intelligence application in automated-forensic-CBCT segmentation. (4) Interdisciplinary cooperation, utilizing the mentioned technologies, can solve the problem of human remains identification with a 3D reconstruction of dental patterns and their 2D projections over existing ante-mortem records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work compares the anthropometric parameters of the patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) of both the I and II type with the healthy population. Altogether, 120 individuals from whole of Slovakia with diagnosed DM (60 females and 60 males) aged 18 to 55 years were investigated, 20 anthropometric parameters, six indices a two physiological parameters were studied. The standardized indices (z-score) were used for comparison with the expected values of a healthy population. It has been found that the female patients with DM of the II type show higher values of body weight, bicristal and bispinal width, as well as the chest and abdominal circumferences (z-score > +2.0) than the healthy population. As to the I type of DM, the higher values were present in bispinal width (z-score > +2.0) only. The males with the DM II type show higher values (z-score > +2.0) of body weight, bispinal width and arm circumference than the healthy population. In anthropometric parameters, some distinct deviations from the norm were found in females with the II type of DM. In both the female and male patients with the DM I type, the observed differences did not exceed the permissible physiological norm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determine the level of knowledge and awareness of health professionals, medieal students and parents concerning possible risks associated with ionizing radiation in pediatric population. A cross-sectional study has been conducted in two healthcare institutions and Faculty of Medicine, by filling out two anonymous questionnaires (questionnaire 1 - medical staff and medical students, questionnaire 2 - parents of the children). It included 254 respondents. The majority of examinees assessed their knowledge about ionizing radiation as moderate. Less than half clinicians, both specialists and residents, were informed about Image gently campaign. Over 60 % of doctors assessed that diagnostic radiology procedures arc often performed unnecessarily in children. Even though 60-80 % of clinicians claimed they do inform parents in everyday clinical practice, however over 70 % of parents affirmed that they had never been informed about effects of ionizing radiation before diagnostic procedures. Between 50 % and 85 % of pediatricians and pediatric surgeons greatly underestimated the effective doses in computed tomography and fluoroscopy procedures. There were 58-100 % of clinicians who were aware that computed tomography increases the risk of carcinoma development. General knowledge of medical staff, medical students, and parents about ionizing radiation and potential risks in pediatric population is poor. Therefore, organized education is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metaplasia is a reversible phenomenon that usually occurs in response to chronic irritation and/or inflammation. It allows for the substitution of fragile cells with those that are better able to survive under various circumstances. Our study aims to describe the histology of one unusual type of metaplasia results in the formation of a synovial-like membrane typical of joints inside a female patient’s breasts around silicone implants. We analyzed samples from 22 female patients, who underwent delayed-staged breast reconstructions. Attention was paid especially to tissue that was in direct contact with the silicone expander and that was under permanent pressure and friction between the implant and the surrounding tissue. Biopsies of explanted periprosthetic capsules were processed for examination by light microscopy. Immunohistochemical staining (ten different primary antibodies) was performed to examine a variety of cell-specific antigens. At the interface between the tissue capsule and the silicone breast expander, we typically observed a 50-200-μm cellular lining. Thanks to the high cellular density, this cellular layer resembled epithelium. However, there was no basement membrane, and cells were negative for cytokeratin. The cells forming the superficial layer were strongly positive for vimentin and podoplanin and weakly positive for the S100 protein. These cells did not express desmin or smooth muscle actin. Within the most superficial layer (synovial intima), we distinguished two types of cells: phagocytic (CD68-positive) and fibroblast-like synovial cells. We conclude that the cellular lining surrounding silicone breast implants looks like a true synovial membrane resembling a fibrous form of synovium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge about the three-dimensional fine structure of human heart, as a crucial vital organ of the body, is not only fascinating from the scientific or educational points of view, but has a very important clinical impact. Therefore, we decided to create a three-dimensional atlas of fine structure of the human heart. Tissue samples from ten human hearts were rinsed in phosphate-buffer solution, fixed by glutaraldehyde buffered solution, and post-fixed in osmium tetroxide solution. A gentle dehydration with ethanol in different concentration and drying at the critical point of CO2 were applied as next procedures. Non-conductive specimens were galvanized with thin gold layer and observed in scanning electron microscope. In this study, we present the three-dimensional ultrastructural architecture of the human heart from patients after myocardial infarction, end-stage failing heart as well as without apparent cardiac abnormalities at the time of autopsy. The results are presented as a histological atlas. Its images illustratively describe the fine structure of endocardium including the morphology of Purkyne (Purkinje) fibres, spatial arrangements of cardiac muscle cells inside myocardium or the arrangements of adipose tissue of epicardium. We present also figures of the ultrastructure of papillary muscles, intercalated discs as well as the connective tissue scars after myocardial infarction. The scanning electron microscopy could be a reliable technique to perform a more complete morphological data and to improve our knowledge of some pathological changes of tissues and cells, not always detected by conventional morphological examinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few years, researchers have been studying telocytes, recently described interstitial cells, voraciously. This morphological study focused on the immunohistochemical identification of telocytes and the study of their topographical relations in the wall of the human uterine body and cervix. This study attempted to find the most specific and therefore, the most suitable monoclonal antibody for the study of telocytes via the immunohistochemical methods. Tissue specimens from human uteruses were stained with eight different primary antibodies, to detect the expression of c-kit (CD117), CD34 antigen, vimentin, a-smooth muscle actin, progesterone receptor, desmin, estrogen receptor and S 100 protein. The presence of telocytes was studied in four different histological regions of the uterus: the endometrium and myometrium of the corpus, endocervical mucosa and exocervical mucosa. This study shows that c-kit is the most suitable marker for identification of telocytes in human uterine body and cervix. C-kit positive telocytes within the endometrium, myometrium, as well as the mucosa of the endocervix and exocervix exhibited an assorted variety of shapes from spindle-shaped, triangular to star-shaped. The greatest abundance of c-kit positive telocytes is found within the myometrium. The connective tissue of endocervical mucosa also contains a considerable number of these cells, while the lowest count of c-kit positive telocytes is found within the endometrium and exocervical mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human cardiac muscle cells are the most physically energetic cells in the body, and according to various researchers they contain two nuclei in 25-40%. In humans, the heart during prenatal development consists mainly of cardiomyocytes with one nucleus. Just before birth, binucleation begins and can extend into early neonatal life. The physiological importance of binucleation is still poorly understood. In this critical review, we provide a summary of the latest research on binucleation of cardiac muscle cells, with special emphasis on the potential application of such knowledge to the fields of regenerative medicine. We summed up and discussed about ten possible biological arguments why binucleation may be beneficial for cardiac muscle cells as well as for the whole myocardium. These arguments include increase of gene expression, purposeful cell shaping, increase of metabolic activity, energy-saving growth and function, need for organ growth despite of telomere depletion, adaptation to stress (tissue regeneration), prevention of overgrowth - organ shaping, prevention of aneuploidy, terminally differentiated state (cardiomyocytes exit the cell cycle, end of proliferation activity); or, we hypothesize, binucleation is just an unwanted side product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetosomes are nanoparticles coated with organic membrane produced by magnetotactic bacteria. They appear to be a suitable carrier for the targeted drug transport, which represents a new method of cancer treatment. Advantages of targeted drugs transport are the minimizing of hurt to the organism, specific focusing on certain types of tissues, increased effect of the drug, reduced drug dose and hence side effects. The main goal of the present study was to verify the effect of bacterial magnetic nanoparticles produced by Magnetospirillum strain AMB-1 on cancer cell proliferation, plasmatic membrane integrity, induction of apoptosis as well as on the expression of Bcl-2 in the human lung cancer cell line A549. Obtained results showed that magnetosomes did not have a significant effect on proliferation activity of cells but affected their viability. Moreover, they affected structural integrity of plasmatic membrane and induced apoptosis in cancer cells after their incorporation. The expression of Bcl-2 was also significantly reduced. Taking all these data together, it can be emphasized that magnetosomes severely induce apoptosis in lung cancer cells and after performing the further experiments they could be used in different biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study deals with histological descriptions of clinically healthy human gingivae through the methods of light, electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Even clinically healthy human gingivae are subject to constant bacterial and mechanical influences present in the oral cavity; therefore, the term "normal gingiva" is misleading. The aim of this study was to identify, in clinically healthy gingiva, all active cells through immunohistochemical markers and light and electron microscope examination. In tissue samples from clinically healthy gingivae of nine patients, we observed the presence of different cells (e.g., T- and B-lymphocytes, macrophages, Merkel cells, Langerhans cells, proliferating cells) and some components of their extracellular matrix that use antibodies against S-100 protein, CD68, CD20, CD45RO, CD20, and Ki67. The presence of immunologically active cells and the ultrastructural characteristics of gingivae were also confirmed. The stratified squamous epithelium of human gingiva contains a population of Langerhans cells and intraepithelial Tlymphocytes. The underlying dense connective tissue contains primarily fibroblasts, but also T-lymphocytes, occasionally B-lymphocytes, plasma cells, and macrophages can be seen. As a border between the oral cavity and the internal environment of the human body, the gingivae are an important part of the immune system. Such findings show that, in healthy gingival tissue, there are constantly ongoing anti-inflammatory, immunological, and regenerative reactions and processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proliferative activity of tumour cells represents an important prognostic marker in the diagnosis of cancer. One of the methods for assessing the proliferative activity of cells is the immunohistochemical detection of cell cycle-specific antigens. For example, Ki67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and minichromosome maintenance (MCM) proteins are standard markers of proliferation that are commonly used to assess the growth fraction of a cell population. The function of Ki67, the widely used marker of proliferation, still remains unclear. In contrast, PCNA and MCM proteins have been identified as important participants of DNA replication. All three proteins only manifest their expression during the cell division of normal and neoplastic cells. Since the expression of these proliferative markers was confirmed in several malignant tumours, their prognostic and predictive values have been evaluated to determine their significance in the diagnosis of cancer. This review offers insight into the discovery of the abovementioned proteins, as well as their current molecular and biological importance. In addition, the functions and properties of all three proteins and their use as markers of proliferation in the diagnosis of breast cancer are described. This work also reveals new findings about the role of Ki67 during the mitotic phase of the cell cycle. Finally, information is provided about the advantages and disadvantages of using all three antigens in the diagnosis of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the quantity and/or quality of food intake have been shown to be associated with morphological and functional alterations of the gastrointestinal system. To examine this, we investigated the effect of chronic liquid nutrition intake (Fresubin) on stomach and duodenum morphology in Wistar rats fed liquid nutrition during different developmental periods. We used four groups of rats: a) control group (CON) fed pelleted chow for 130 days; b) liquid nutrition group (LN) fed liquid nutrition for 130 days; c) liquid nutrition juvenile group (LNJ) fed liquid nutrition for 70 days and then pelleted food for 60 days; d) liquid nutrition adult group (LNA) fed pelleted chow for 70 days and then liquid nutrition for 60 days. We found that LN and LNA rats showed a significant reduction of empty stomach mass compared to CON animals, while stomach and duodenal longitudinal muscle layer thickness did not differ between groups. Villus height was increased only in LNA animals, while villus width was increased in both LN and LNA rats. Crypt depth was reduced in LNJ. However, liquid nutrition intake did not affect villus height/crypt depth ratio, nor number of goblet cells. We found that chronic intake of liquid nutrition affects some morphological parameters of the stomach and duodenum but these changes were not homogenous between experimental groups. Interestingly, transition from liquid nutrition to solid food reversed the alterations of stomach weight as well as villus width induced by intake of liquid nutrition in LNA rats. Our data indicate that morphological and functional changes in the gastrointestinal system induced by qualitative and quantitative changes in food intake are at least partially reversible. Therefore, specific diets may be used potentially as adjuvant treatment for modulating the progression of gastrointestinal diseases by affecting stomach and small intestine morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R5280 --> 779.6 --> Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive within 1 year of unprotected intercourse. The infertility evaluation generally includes an assessment of the ovarian cycle and a semen analysis, but the evaluation of tubal patency is an essential part of the fertility workup. However, in the case of the uterine tube, patency may not be the only cause of tubal infertility. Idiopathic or unexplained infertility is a broad subcategory of infertility defined by the absence of obvious or explainable cause. Based on our previous research, we review and discuss three hypotheses associated with new anatomical and histological knowledge of tubal morphology and transport function and its potential impact on reproductive outcomes in women with unexplained tubal infertility. In 2021, Duffy et al. (Fertility and Sterility) published "Top 10 priorities for future infertility research", based on their survey among healthcare professionals and patients with fertility problems from 40 countries. No mention of tubal infertility was included in their results. On the other hand, the topic "What causes unexplained infertility?" was one of the most important research priorities for female infertility. In 2018, a neglected structure of the human uterine tube, the lymphatic lacunae of the mucosal folds and fimbriae were described by Varga et al. (Annals of Anatomy). We believe that the lymph and lymphatic lacunae are responsible for the thickening of the fimbriae during ovulation. The fimbriae become enlarged and turgescent, coming into contact with the surface of the ovary, what is important in oocyte pick‐up and the maintenance of the tubal fluid. Hypothetically, disturbed lymph flow, caused by e.g., sedentary work, can cause problems with oocyte pick‐up and subsequent fertilization. In 2019, Varga et al. (Annals of Anatomy) described an important regulatory T‐ cell population in the human tubal epithelium. These intra‐epithelial T‐lymphocytes can be involved in the process of immune tolerance, which could lead to the tolerance of non‐self cells (sperm) and partially non‐self cells (a developing embryo) without the activation of local immune responses. An imbalance between the cells of the intra‐epithelial immune system can hypothetically lead to the immune reaction against sperm and/or embryo during transport through the uterine tube. The recently described cell population of tubal telocytes have many possible functions, but one of the most commonly reported is their ability to "sense" the levels of female sex hormones and thus regulate those processes inside the uterine tubes, which are under hormonal control. As reviewed by Klein et al. (2020, Medicina), telocytes are excessively fragile in the presence of noxious factors. In the uterine tubes, possible mechanisms of unexplained infertility include changes in the structural and functional integrity of the cellular microenvironment, including quantitative reduction and/or functional alteration of telocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R5023 --> 779.2 --> Introduction: Telocytes are a cell population discovered in 2005. Within the organs of the female reproductive system (FRS), telocytes were described as having an immunomodulatory role and also functioning as hormone sensors. From the pathological perspective, telocytes were described in the pathogenesis of a wide spectrum of different conditions, including a role in tumorigenesis. The gold standard of telocyte research is electron microscopy, but immunohistochemistry is also widely applied. The main objective was to identify the most suitable immunohistochemical marker and subsequently use it in the study of uterine specimens from patients with uterine fibroids (leiomyomas). Material and Methods: Uterine specimens were obtained from 26 patients who underwent hysterectomy for various indications, including ectopic pregnancy and uterine fibroids. From all the uteruses, representative specimens were obtained from the myometrium and endometrium of the uterine body, and also from the endo‐ and exocervical mucosa. 5 μm thick sections were further processed for immunohistochemistry. To identify the most suitable marker of telocytes, 8 primary antibodies were used: CD117/c‐kit, CD34, vimentin, α‐smooth muscle actin, progesterone and estrogen receptor, desmin and S100 protein (DAKO, Denmark). Results: The most specific marker was c‐kit. C‐kit‐positive cells were spindle‐shaped, triangular and star‐shaped. C‐kit positive cells were located in the endometrium, myometrium, exocervical, and endocervical mucosa. Comparing the distribution within the individual parts of the uterus, the most numerous population was observed within the myometrium. A considerable number of telocytes was also observed within the endocervical mucosa, while the fewest telocytes were described in the endometrium and exocervical mucosa. In the specimens of uterine fibroids, the non‐affected parts of the myometrium contained c‐kit positive cells within all the myometrial sublayers. The average c‐kit positivity expressed in percentage was 2.19 ± 0.51%. Those parts of the myometrium affected by uterine fibroids displayed complete c‐kit negativity. Conclusion: C‐kit is the most suitable marker in the research of telocytes in the FRS. The loss of telocytes in the myometrium may have a role in the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids via three mechanisms: 1) hormonal imbalance, 2) stem cell dysregulation and 3) diminished angiogenesis. Therefore, therapeutic targeting of telocytes can be a potential future approach in the treatment of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R4028 --> 640.3 --> Mesenchymal (stromal) stem cells (MSCs) represent a unique tool in the field of regenerative medicine. However, their harvesting often requires invasive medical procedures. Urine‐derived stem cells (UDSCs) display similar properties to MSCs, and their sampling and further processing is non‐invasive for the donors. Here, we offer a comprehensive analysis of their biological properties. The goal of this study was to analyze their morphology, stemness, differentiation potential and cytokine profile. We have successfully isolated UDSCs from 25 urine samples. First colonies emerged up to 9 days after the initial seeding. Cell doubling time was 45 ± 0.24 SD, and when seeded at the density of 100 cells/cm2, they formed 42 ± 6.5 SD colonies within 10 days. Morphological analyzes revealed that two distinct types of the cell populations have been present. The first type had a rice‐grain shape and the second one was characterized by a polyhedral shape. All examined UDSCs expressed typical MSC‐like surface markers, CD73, CD90 and CD105. Moreover, conditioned media from UDSCs were harvested, and cytokine profile has been evaluated showing a significantly higher secretory rate of IL‐8, IL‐6 and chemokines MCP‐1 and GM‐CSF. We have also successfully induced human UDSCs into chondrogenic, osteogenic and myogenic cell lineages. Our findings indicate that UDSCs might have immense potential in the regeneration of the damaged tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a novel method of 3D designing and 3D printing of a hybrid orthodontic tooth-borne personalized distalizer for treatment of unilateral Class II malocclusion. Research objectives were to clinically utilize 3D printed distalizers, appraise feasibility of this technique and compare two different biocompatible photopolymers (white and transparent). Frequency of distalizers' debonding and patients' aesthetical perception was evaluated on the set of 12 complete orthodontic treatments. The mean duration of treatment period with a bonded distalizer was 6.4 months. All cases were adults with unilateral Class II malocclusion managed with a hybrid approach as a part of Invisalign® comprehensive treatment. Results showed that such perspective practice is feasible for 3D design and in-office 3D printing of a personalized distalizer. Results also showed no clinically significant differences between both studied biopolymers. The paper discusses an evaluation of such personalized distalizer functionality with regard to the current state of the art and compares to conventional prefabricated alternatives like a Carriere® Distalizer™ appliance. Research showed a preference of patients towards transparent biocompatible photopolymer instead of the white A2 shade. The paper concludes that additive manufacturing from dental resins is a viable method in personalization and in-office 3D printing of orthodontic auxiliaries, particularly distalizers. New materials for orthodontic 3D printing endow enhanced individualization, thus more efficient treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From their initial description in 2005 to this day, telocytes (TCs) have been described in the ovary, uterine tubes, uterus, vagina, mammary gland, and placenta. Their morphological features, immunophenotype, physiological functions, and roles in disease have been thoroughly documented in both animal models and human subjects. TCs, with their extremely long cytoplasmic processes called telopodes, play a pivotal role in the morphological and functional interconnection of all the components of the interstitial compartment, but also with constituents of the parenchyma. Although there is no specific immunohistochemical marker for their identification, the most cited are CD 117, CD 34, platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), vimentin, and specific markers typical for the female reproductive system (FRS)—estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER and PR). This immunophenotype provides important clues to their physiological roles. Their main functions include the regulation of hormone-dependent processes, intercellular signaling, immune surveillance, microenvironmental maintenance, and the nursing of stem cells. In a situation where TCs are functionally or morphologically decimated, many disease entities may develop, including premature ovarian failure, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy, infertility, preeclampsia, or even breast cancer. The common denominator of many of these conditions is that their etiopathogenesis is either partially known or completely obscure. Even though the exact role of TCs in these conditions is yet to be revealed, multiple lines of research indicate that their future clinical application may enrich diagnostic-therapeutic strategies of countless conditions. TCs are also heavily debated in terms of their possible use in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Some of the concepts related to TC research are strongly substantiated by experimental data, while others are highly speculative. Only future research endeavors will clearly distinguish dead-end lines of research from genuine contributions to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poland syndrome is a rare congenital anomaly described by Sir Alfred Poland over 170 years ago. Combination of unilateral aplasia of the sternocostal head of musculus pectoralis major, and an ipsilateral hypoplastic hand with simple syndactyly and short fingers is typical for this condition. It occurs more frequent among males, and is usually situated on the right hemithorax in the unilateral form. The pathogenesis of Poland syndrome is not clear. Most of the authors assume that the etiologic insult is vascular in nature. During the sixth week of gestation, not only the pectoral mass splits (future muscles of the thorax) and intervening tissue between the finger rays of hands starts to disappear but also the vascular differentiation from six aortic arches begins. In our paper we report two cases of children with Poland syndrome, who underwent surgical procedure in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia. Our case reports are focused on pre-operatively and also post-operatively imaging (RTG, CT, and 3D CT imaging) of the affected thorax and arm, as well as the operative reconstruction technique of abnormal ribs. We also discussed the possible embryonic backgrounds of this anomaly as well as the importance of plastic surgery resulting in patients' normal life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) represent a major class of compounds for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia due to their ability to inhibit de novo cholesterol synthesis. In addition to their hypolipidemic effects, chemoprotective properties have been attributed to statins as well. These effects involve multiple mechanisms, which, however, are not known in detail. The aim of our study was to assess in non-malignant as well as cancer cells the impact of simvastatin on the amount of cytosolic lipid droplets (LDs) implicated in many biological processes including proliferation, inflammation, carcinogenesis, apoptosis, necrosis or growth arrest. Methods: Human embryonic kidney cells HEK-293T and human pancreatic cancer cells MiaPaCa-2 were treated with simvastatin (6 and 12 μM) for 24 and 48 hours respectively. Neutral lipid probe Nile Red was used for detection of LDs by fluorescence microscopy. Cellular cholesterol content was determined by HPLC. Changes in expression of genes related to lipid metabolism in simvastatin-treated MiaPaCa-2 cells were examined by DNA microarray analysis. Validation of gene expression changes was performed using quantitative RT-PCR. Results: The treatment of the cells with simvastatin increased their intracellular content of LDs in both non-malignant as well as cancer cells, partially due to the uptake of cholesterol and triacylglyceroles from medium; but in particular, due to enhanced synthesis of triacylglyceroles as proved by significant overexpression of genes related to de novo synthesis of triacylglyceroles and phospholipids. In addition, simvastatin also markedly influenced expression of genes directly affecting cell proliferation and signaling. Conclusions: Simvastatin treatment led to accumulation of cytosolic LDs within the examined cells, a phenomenon which might contribute to the antiproliferative effects of statins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent an attractive source within the field of tissue engineering. However, their harvesting often requires invasive medical procedures. Urine-derived stem cells (UDSCs) display similar properties to MSCs, and their obtention and further processing is non-invasive for the donors as well as low cost. Here, we offer a comprehensive analysis of their biological properties. The goal of this study was to analyze their morphology, stemness, differentiation potential and cytokine profile. We have successfully isolated UDSCs from 25 urine samples. First colonies emerged up to 9 days after the initial seeding. Cell doubling time was 45 ± 0.24 SD, and when seeded at the density of 100 cells/cm2, they formed 42 ± 6.5 SD colonies within 10 days. Morphological analyzes revealed that two different types of the cell populations have been present. The first type had a rice-grain shape and the second one was characterized by a polyhedral shape. In several cell cultures, dome-shaped cells were observed as well. All examined UDSCs expressed typical MSC-like surface markers, CD73, CD90 and CD105. Moreover, conditioned media from UDSCs were harvested, and cytokine profile has been evaluated showing a significantly higher secretory rate of IL-8, IL-6 and chemokines MCP-1 and GM-CSF. We have also successfully induced human UDSCs into chondrogenic, osteogenic and myogenic cell lineages. Our findings indicate that UDSCs might have immense potential in the regeneration of the damaged tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetus in fetu is a rare congenital anomaly, when the malformed monozygotic twin is found within the body of a living child or sometimes in an adult. We report a case of fetus in fetu diagnosed during the early third trimester of pregnancy, in the medial and inferior portions of anterior mediastinum of the dominant twin. The diagnosis was suspected by prenatal ultrasound and fetal magnetic resonance imaging. It was postnatally confirmed by CT and RTG, surgically removed after birth and histologically examined. Histologically we found well-developed organs and tissues derived from all germ layers. To our knowledge, we describe the fourth case of fetus in fetu located in the thorax, and the second case located in the anterior mediastinum. This case highlights the usefulness of prenatal ultrasound and MRI in the diagnosis of mediastinal masses, and the usefulness of complete histological examination for confirmation of diagnosis of fetus in fetu. We also reviewed the possible embryologic backgrounds of this congenital anomaly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionizing radiation as a cancer therapy is associated with a variety of undesirable side effects. Consequently, radiotherapy can negatively affect neuromuscular function. Clinical observations have identified problems with swallowing and voice function. Our study aims to evaluate the impact of radiotherapy on laryngeal soft tissues using image analysis to quantify its effect on the structure of the vocalis and thyroarytenoid muscles. Case control study, retrospective analysis. We collected total laryngectomy specimens from six patients with persistent or recurrent cancer who had received preoperative radiotherapy (60-66 Gy). The control group consisted of total laryngectomy specimens from six patients who underwent surgery as primary treatment. Sampling of the specimens only included non-cancerous laryngeal tissue. Laryngeal histological slices were evaluated using digital morphometric analysis system. Percentage of fibrosis and density of muscle fibers within the thyroarytenoid muscle were evaluated in both groups. We found no significant quantitative differences in muscle fibrosis (7.92% vs. 7.52%, P > 0.1). Changes were rather qualitative and included changes in the organization of the muscular fibers. A significant reduction in muscle fibers, however, was observed in the samples from irradiated larynges (66.45% vs. 42.03%, P < 0.01). Our analysis suggests that radiotherapy is responsible for a significant reduction in muscle fibers in the thyroarytenoid muscle and that these changes occur during treatment or relatively early after its completion. Loss of muscle mass after irradiation correlates with clinical observations of muscle weakness and decreased function in patients who undergo radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regeneration of a diseased heart is one of the principal challenges of modern cardiovascular medicine. There has been ongoing research on stem-cell-based therapeutic approaches. A cell population called telocytes (TCs) described only 16 years ago largely contributed to the research area of cardiovascular regeneration. TCs are cells with small bodies and extremely long cytoplasmic projections called telopodes, described in all layers of the heart wall. Their functions include cell-to-cell signaling, stem-cell nursing, mechanical support, and immunoregulation, to name but a few. The functional derangement or quantitative loss of TCs has been implicated in the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmias, and many other conditions. The exact pathomechanisms are still unknown, but the loss of regulative, integrative, and nursing functions of TCs may provide important clues. Therefore, a viable avenue in the future modern management of these conditions is TC-based cell therapy. TCs have been previously transplanted into a mouse model of myocardial infarction with promising results. Tandem transplantation with stem cells may provide additional benefit; however, many underresearched areas need to be addressed in future research before routine application of TC-based cell therapy in human subjects. These include the standardization of protocols for isolation, cultivation, and transplantation, quantitative optimization of TC transplants, cost-effectivity analysis, and many others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urethral defects originating from congenital malformations, trauma, inflammation or carcinoma still pose a great challenge to modern urology. Recent therapies have failed many times and have not provided the expected results. This negatively affects patients' quality of life. By combining cells, bioactive molecules, and biomaterials, tissue engineering can provide promising treatment options. This review focused on scaffold systems for urethra reconstruction. We also discussed different technologies, such as electrospinning and 3D bioprinting which provide great possibility for the preparation of a hollow structure with well-defined architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]