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We report a case of alpha-fetoprotein-producing endometrioid carcinoma (AFP-EC) that originated within an adenomyoma of the uterine corpus. A 76-year-old Japanese woman was incidentally discovered to have a uterine tumor along with multiple lung nodules. Upon surgical removal of the uterus, it was revealed that the tumor was situated within the adenomyoma. The tumor exhibited microfollicular structures and solid growth patterns, with hyaline globules, clear cell glands, and primitive tumor cells. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated the presence of germ cell markers, including AFP, SALL4, and glypican3, leading to final diagnosis of AFP-EC. Histopathologically, AFP-ECs exhibit characteristics similar to those of AFP-producing neoplasms in other organs. Furthermore, a nomenclature issue arises when distinguishing AFP-ECs from yolk sac tumors of the endometrium in older patients due to their shared features. The concept of retrodifferentiation or neometaplasia suggests that "endometrioid carcinoma with yolk sac tumor differentiation" or "endometrioid carcinoma with a primitive phenotype" may serve as more fitting terms for the diverse spectrum of AFP-producing neoplasms in the endometrium. In conclusion, this case underscores the diagnostic challenges posed by AFP-ECs arising from adenomyomas and emphasizes the need for refining the nomenclature and classification of AFP-producing neoplasms within the endometrium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify risk factors for readmission following methotrexate treatment for tubal pregnancy. Methods: A retrospective study undertaken in two tertiary medical centers, including all individuals with medically treated tubal pregnancy (N = 511), between December 2009 and June 2021. Individuals with and without readmission following methotrexate treatment were compared. The primary outcome was the readmission rate. Secondary outcomes included the rate of post‐discharge gynecological emergency department visits, tubal rupture rate, and the eventual need for surgical treatment. Results: Readmission following methotrexate treatment occurred in 224/511 patients (43.8%). Most readmissions were due to abdominal pain or suspicion of treatment failure. Readmitted individuals were more likely to have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease and pretreatment serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) >2000 mIU/mL. Both factors remained significantly associated with higher readmission rates in a logistic regression analysis (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 6.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30–30.45, and adjusted OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.83–4.07, respectively) after adjustment for age, endometriosis, tubal pathology, abdominal pain, and presence of yolk sac or embryo at diagnosis. A dose‐dependent association was observed between pretreatment serum hCG levels and readmission rate (P < 0.001). Pretreatment hCG levels were also associated with tubal rupture and the eventual need for surgical treatment (P < 0.001 for both). A prediction model using hCG was not sufficiently accurate to predict readmission risk. Conclusion: Readmission following methotrexate treatment for tubal pregnancy was independently associated with previous pelvic inflammatory disease and pretreatment serum hCG levels. The latter was also associated with surgical intervention rate. Synopsis: Readmission following methotrexate treatment for tubal pregnancy was associated with previous PID and pretreatment hCG levels. The latter was also associated with surgical intervention rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Functional foods are foods that offer health benefits over and above their nutritional value. As eggs are a food of global importance, many authors believe that they are an ideal candidate for functional foods of the future, as it is possible to influence their chemical composition through production technology. Vitamins are one of the most important groups of micronutrients essential for human health, and eggs are recognised as an important source of vitamins in the diet, especially fat-soluble vitamins. The egg yolk contains large amounts of vitamins A, D, E and K. Eating two eggs a day covers 10% to 30% of a person's vitamin requirements. This paper reviews the results of a large number of researchers on the influence of various aspects of production technology on the content of fat-soluble vitamins in eggs. Most attention has been paid to the influence of vitamin supplements in feed for laying hens, but also to the influence of the rearing system and the genotype as well as the interaction between the vitamins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study evaluated the effects of cyclic eggshell temperature between 10 and 14 d of embryogenesis on traits viz. the expression of MYOZ2, PPARγ and GPx7 in breast muscle, meat quality and incidence of white striping at slaughter age.2. Eggs were obtained from Cobb and Ross broiler breeders to investigate the response of breeds to eggshell temperature, which regulated air temperature. A total of 784 eggs were incubated at either the control eggshell temperature (37.8°C) from 0 to 18 d or exposed to cyclic high eggshell temperature (CHT) at 38.8°C for 6 h/d between 10 and 14 d of incubation. The temperature was 36.8°C between 18 and 21 d. Hatched chicks were reared under optimum rearing conditions. The birds were sampled at 19 d of incubation, at hatch and at 42 d post-hatch.3. There was no effect of eggshell temperature on yolk-free body weight and residual yolk sac weight. The CHT chicks had wider breasts on the day of hatching.4. At hatch and 42d post-hatch, PPARγ expression in Cobb-CHT was upregulated 4.78-fold and downregulated 3.28-fold, respectively, compared to the Cobb-control. At slaughter age, chickens from Ross-CHT had 1.98- and 2.33-fold upregulated PPARγ and GPX7 expressions, respectively, compared to Ross-control. The CHT increased GPx7 expression in the Cobb-CHT day-old chicks compared to the Cobb-control. On ED19, MYOZ2 expression was upregulated in Cobb and downregulated in Ross by CHT.5. The effects of breed and eggshell temperature on pH15, L*, a*, expressible juice and cooking loss were not significant. The CHT increased the incidence of severe white striping lesions in Ross chickens.6. It was concluded eggshell temperature modulated embryo development, incidence of white striping and expression of related genes differently in the two commercial breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The placenta links feto‐maternal circulation for exchanges of nutrients, gases, and metabolic wastes between the fetus and mother, being essential for pregnancy process and maintenance. The allantois and mesodermal components of amnion, chorion, and yolk sac are derived from extraembryonic mesoderm (Ex‐Mes), however, the mechanisms contributing to distinct components of the placenta and regulation the interactions between allantois and epithelium during chorioallantoic fusion and labyrinth formation remains unclear. Isl1 is expressed in progenitors of the Ex‐Mes and allantois the Isl1 mut mouse line is analyzed to investigate contribution of Isl1+ Ex‐Mes / allantoic progenitors to cells of the allantois and placenta. This study shows that Isl1 identifies the Ex‐Mes progenitors for endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, and most of the mesenchymal cells of the placenta and umbilical cord. Deletion of Isl1 causes defects in allantois growth, chorioallantoic fusion, and placenta vessel morphogenesis. RNA‐seq and CUT&Tag analyses revealed that Isl1 promotes allantoic endothelial, inhibits mesenchymal cell differentiation, and allantoic signals regulated by Isl1 mediating the inductive interactions between the allantois and chorion critical for chorionic epithelium differentiation, villous formation, and labyrinth angiogenesis. This study above reveals that Isl1 plays roles in regulating multiple genetic and epigenetic pathways of vascular morphogenesis, provides the insight into the mechanisms for placental formation, highlighting the necessity of Isl1 for placenta formation/pregnant maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Converging evidence indicates that extra-embryonic yolk sac is the source of both macrophages and endothelial cells in adult mouse tissues. Prevailing views are that these embryonically derived cells are maintained after birth by proliferative self-renewal in their differentiated states. Here we identify clonogenic endothelial-macrophage (EndoMac) progenitor cells in the adventitia of embryonic and postnatal mouse aorta, that are independent of Flt3-mediated bone marrow hematopoiesis and derive from an early embryonic CX3CR1+ and CSF1R+ source. These bipotent progenitors are proliferative and vasculogenic, contributing to adventitial neovascularization and formation of perfused blood vessels after transfer into ischemic tissue. We establish a regulatory role for angiotensin II, which enhances their clonogenic and differentiation properties and rapidly stimulates their proliferative expansion in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that embryonically derived EndoMac progenitors participate in local vasculogenic responses in the aortic wall by contributing to the expansion of endothelial cells and macrophages postnatally. The extraembryonic yolk sac is a major location for developmental hematopoiesis, but it is unclear whether non-bone marrow sources contribute during adulthood. Here they show that embryonically derived endothelial-macrophage progenitor cells located in the aorta are a bipotent source of macrophage and endothelial cells later in life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the early development of Vieja fenestrata (Cichlidae), with a specific focus on the description of external morphological and morphometric changes, and growth patterns from hatching to the loss of larval characters under controlled laboratory conditions at a temperature of 28°C. Asynchronous hatching was observed between 58 and 60 h postfertilization, with the posterior body emerging first. Over 14 days, significant morphological, physiological, and behavioral changes were observed, revealing a complex developmental trajectory. The initial developmental phases were characterized by rapid vascularization, fin differentiation, and heightened activity, and the subsequent days witnessed the flexion of the notochord, emergence of swim bladder functionality, and transition to exogenous feeding. Maturation progressed with the absorption of the yolk sac, regression of cement glands, and fin ray development, culminating in metamorphosis by 14 days post‐hatching. Throughout this period, evolving pigmentation patterns and structural adaptations highlight the species' adaptive strategies. During the larval period of V. fenestrata, substantial changes in morphological proportions were observed. Before the inflection, tail length, trunk length, and body depth had negative allometric growth, and head length, eye diameter, and snout length had positive allometric growth. After the inflection, body depth and snout length showed positive allometric growth; head length and trunk length exhibited isometric growth, whereas tail length and eye diameter demonstrated negative allometric growth. These findings contribute insights into the intricate developmental dynamics of V. fenestrata. Moreover, further research may explore these developmental dynamics' ecological and evolutionary implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High larval and frymortality has been amajor challenge to the commercial culture of the African bony-tongue (Heterotis niloticus). Research indicates inadequate feeding to be a possible cause of the high mortality rates of larvae/fry grown in captivity. An experiment was conducted to first describe the developmental stages of H. niloticus eggs and larvae until schooling, 6 days after hatching (DAH), at 26°C. The morphological development, survival, growth (weight gain and length), and swimming behavior of the larvae were monitored. A follow-up feeding trial was conducted with H. niloticus fry from 6 to 27 DAH involving four treatments: feeding with Artemia nauplii; a combined feed of 50% Artemia nauplii and 50% rotifers (w/w); feeding with rotifers; and no feeding. The activities of three digestive enzymes (trypsin, lipase, and amylase)were assessed in fry exposed to the live feed treatments. At hatching, the larvae had a large, vascularized yolk sac filled with yolk platelets, which occupied approximately one-third of the total body length of the abdominal cavity. Yolk platelet reabsorption started at 1 DAH and was complete at 6 DAH. Metamorphosis was completed at 6 DAH, and schooling behavior was observed. For the feeding trial, the fry that received Artemia nauplii underwent the fastest development until 27 DAH. Similarly, the survival rate was considerably higher in fry fed with Artemia nauplii than in those that received a combination of Artemia nauplii and rotifers or only rotifers. Overall, the survival rates for fry fed with Artemia nauplii and larvae co-fed were 72.7% ± 0.9% and 41.2% ± 3.3%, respectively. Fry did not survive until 27 DAH in the rotifer-fed and unfed treatment groups. Digestive enzyme activity differed significantly (p< 0.05) between treatments and sampling dates. All digestive enzymes were detectable at the onset of mouth opening (5 DAH) and fluctuated through the 7 and 9 DAH. Lower enzyme activity was observed when the fry were subjected to starvation or the rotifer treatment. Results indicate that Artemia nauplii is the best live feed organism for H. niloticus larviculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study provides the first comprehensive account of the developmental biology of the Indigo barb in captivity. The males develop a reddish hue on the body and margins of their median fins, as opposed to the dull coloration of the females. The fish spawned 6–7 h after administering the breeding hormone, and the fertilized eggs were demersal and adhesive. The larvae hatched 22 h ± 20 min post-fertilization and were demersal with distinctive crawling movements. The yolk sac larvae were 2.48 ± 0.032 mm in total length, with a non-pigmented body and pear-shaped yolk sac. The pre-flexion stage was attained 4 days after hatching, with a single-chambered swim bladder and melanophore aggregation along the body. The larvae reached the flexion stage on day 16, with a body length of 4.54 ± 0.36 mm and the development of caudal fin rays. On the 28th day, the post-flexion stage had produced all of the fins except the pelvics, a two-chambered swim bladder, and a distinctive sub-dorsal blotch. The presence of a supra-anal band and the emergence of scales over the caudal area characterized the juvenile stage. The baseline information on early ontogeny will be valuable for the conservation and sustainable use of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developmental toxicity studies help to understand the impact of a pollutant on this crucial phase of the living organisms which can affect their population dynamics. Zebrafish has become an ideal model for studying environmental and embryo toxicity. The present study was carried out using zebrafish embryos for assessing the environmental toxicity of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) which is universally considered to be an omnipresent environmental contaminant as it is the most widely used plasticizer. The embryos were exposed to DEHP for a range of five concentrations of 0.2, 20, 80, 140 and 200 μg/L for the duration of 96 hours. The treatment resulted in increased mortality and decreased hatch rate, hatchability and heartrate. It also induced teratogenic endpoints like yolk sac edema, pericardial edema and spinal deformity in the embryos which increased in dose and time dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Natural plants are valuable resources for exploring new bioactive compounds. Artemisia vulgaris L. is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that has been historically used for treating multiple diseases. Active compounds isolated and extracted from A. vulgaris L. typically possess immunomodulatory and antiinflammatory properties. Artemvulactone E (AE) is a new sesquiterpene lactone isolated and extracted from A. vulgaris L. with unclear biological activities. Methods: The immunoregulatory effects of AE on macrophages were assessed by ELISA, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, and western blot assay. The effect of AE on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -relates signaling pathways was examined by western blot assay. In zebrafish models, the larvae were yolk-microinjected with LPS to establish inflammation model and the effect of AE was evaluated by determining the survival rate, heart rate, yolk sac edema size, neutrophils and macrophages infiltration of zebrafish. The interaction between AE and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was examined by molecular docking and dynamic stimulation. Results: AE reduced the expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-a and IL-6), inflammatory mediators iNOS and COX-2, as well as decreases the production of intracellular NO and ROS in LPS-stimulated macrophages. In addition, AE exerted its anti-inflammatory effect synergistically by inhibiting MAPK/JAK/STAT3-NF-B signaling pathways. Furthermore, AE enhanced the survival rate and attenuated inflammatory response in zebrafish embryos treated with LPS. Finally, the molecular dynamics results indicate that AE forms stable complexes with LPS receptor TLR4 through the Ser127 residue, thus completely impairing the subsequent activation of MAPK-NF-B signaling. Conclusion: AE exhibits notable anti-inflammatory activity and represents as a potential agent for treating inflammation-associated diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the association between serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) half-life (HL) and prognosis in prepubertal children with elevated AFP values 3 to 4 weeks after surgery for testicular yolk sac tumors (YST). Methods: Prepubertal patients with testicular YST treated with radical orchiectomy between January 2016 and December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Negative outcomes were defined as relapse, metastasis or death. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to select risk factors for negative outcomes. Results: A total of 42 patients were eventually enrolled into the study. Patients were divided into non-negative and negative outcomes groups, consisting of 35 and 7 patients, respectively. Thirty-five patients were stage I, two cases were stage II, and five cases were stage IV, according to the Children's Oncology Group staging system. The overall survival (OS) rate was 100%. Average AFP values significantly decreased after resection (P < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was shown between pre- and postoperative AFP values (r = 0.60, P < 0.001). Long AFP HL was considered as an independent risk factor for negative outcomes in YST patients underwent radical orchiectomy (P = 0.04). The cut-off value for AFP HL was 5.78 days, regardless of age division. Conclusion: Testicular YST is a relatively rare disease in children with an OS of 100%, and salvage chemotherapy is effective even in grade IV patients. The postoperative AFP HL was significantly associated with prognosis in prepubertal patients with testicular YST. The cut-off value for AFP HL is 5.78 days regardless of the effect of physiological AFP elevation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to uncover the early life‐history stages of Systomus sarana, a medium‐sized smiliogastrin cyprinid important for aquaculture in South Asia. The fish were effectively bred in captivity by administering 0.25 mL of breeding hormone per kilogram of fish. The spawning occurred 8.54 ± 0.55 h after the injection, and the eggs were phyto‐lithophilic with a pale yellow color and a diameter of 1.49 ± 0.04 mm. Hatching occurred 17 h after fertilization, and the yolk‐sac larvae of 3.43 ± 0.08 mm total length (TL) were adhering to the plant parts and other substrata with the cement glands on the forehead. On the third day, with complete absorption of the yolk sac and the disappearance of the attachment organ, the pre‐flexion larvae measured 5.3 ± 0.11 mm TL. On the eighth day, the flexion larvae measured 6 ± 0.4 mm TL with a well‐inflated posterior swim bladder, and the post‐flexion larvae, at 11 days post‐hatching (dph), developed a two‐chambered gas bladder. The juvenile stage, on day 21 post‐hatching, was marked by the loss of the median finfolds and the appearance of black blotches on the caudal, subdorsal, and supra‐anal regions. The commencement of squamation and the appearance of the rudiments of maxillary barbels distinguished the juvenile stage. The subadults measuring 4.6 ± 0.36 cm TL had finished squamation and completely lost the subdorsal and supra‐anal blotches. We propose that the presence of subdorsal blotches is a distinctive ontogenetic and systematic feature of larval and juvenile forms of smiliogastrin barbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The blackchin guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus has suffered severe declines and regional extirpation throughout its known distributions. While this species and its relative, the common guitarfish Rhinobatos rhinobatos, have been described in the Mediterranean Sea with co-occurring habitat ranges, no research has recorded the existence or extent of these two separate populations along the Israeli coastal waters. Along a particular coast in Israel, Ma’agan Michael, fishermen have reported annual observations of juvenile guitarfish between June to November for the last forty years. Based on these citizen-based observations themain research objective is to establish whether Ma’agan Michael fulfils all three criteria fromthe literature by Dr Michelle Heupel, allowing it to be acknowledged as a nursery ground for G. cemiculus. The methodology built for this objective integrates biological characteristics data with the identification of a recurrent seasonal distribution. Visual surveys exhibited a significantly higher abundance in Ma’agan Michael when compared to an adjacent area (Caesarea), with 2,096 recorded observations overall. Additionally, using a species-specific modified Catch and Release protocol, a total of 492 juveniles were captured with a beach seine net. During these capturing events, individuals were morphometrically measured and sampled for future genetic analyses. Out of these, 327 specimens were also fitted for PIT tags to track recaptures in subsequent captures. The highest abundance of neonates was caught from August to September each year (2017–2019), and all individuals captured during this study were identified in the field as G. cemiculus, ranging from 20–35 cm in length (85% of captures). Many specimens had an umbilical cord scar (n = 88), with a large percentage possessing visual remains of the yolk sac. For the first time, this study provides an inter-year description of the species Glaucostegus cemiculus present along the Israeli shoreline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Yolk sac tumors (YSTs) are rare and highly malignant ovarian malignancies that have a very poor prognosis. The aim of this study is to delineate the ultrasound and clinicopathological features of female pelvic YSTs to better understand the disease. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of the clinicopathological and ultrasound imaging data from 16 YST patients who received treatment at our hospital between January 2012 and August 2023. Then, the ultrasound imaging characteristics were compared with pathological findings. Results: Among the 16 patients, various degrees of serum AFP increase were observed, and CA125 levels increased in 58.33% (7 out of 12) of patients. Thirteen patients (81.25%) had tumors located in ovary, two patients (12.5%) had tumors located in the sacrococcygeal region, and one patient (6.25%) had tumors located in the mesentery. Pathologically, nine patients presented with simple yolk sac tumors and seven with mixed germ cell tumors. According to the ultrasound manifestations, YST lesions can be classified into three types. (1) the cystic type, was diagnosed in two patients who presented with a large cystic mass with regular morphology and clear boundary and dense liquid within the cyst; and (2) the cystic-solid mixed type, was diagnosed in 4 patients. On 2D ultrasound, the lesions showed a cystic-solid mixed echo, and color Doppler showed a rich blood flow signal in the solid region and cystic separation. made up of four cases. (3) In ten patients with the solid type, 2D ultrasound showed solid uniform echoes with clear boundaries. The “fissure sign” was observed in the lesion. Color Doppler displayed rich blood flow in the solid part, and PW showed low to moderate resistance index of artery (RI:0.21–0.63). On contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), rapid and high enhancement in the solid part and cystic separation was observed in 2 patients. Conclusions: Combining ultrasound features with clinical information and tumor markers provides reliable clues for the diagnosis of YST. The application of twodimensional ultrasound and CEUS combined with patient tumor marker levels can provide a robust reference for determining the necessity of fertilitypreserving surgery and postoperative chemotherapy, which can improve clinical decision-making and patient consultation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents new records of three Critically Endangered angel shark species (Family: Squatinidae) occurring in the Eastern Mediterranean—Smoothback Angelshark S. oculata Bonaye, 1840, Sawback Angelshark S. aculeata Cuvier, 1829, and Angelshark S. squatina (Linnaeus, 1758). The supporting data serves to highlight three potential Critical Angel Shark Areas (CASAs) in Türkiye: Fethiye Bay, Çanakkale Strait (i.e., Dardanelles), and Antalya Bay. These data also demonstrate that female S. oculata may mature at a smaller size than prior published estimates of length at first maturity. This new dataset provides details of 23 S. squatina specimens, 52 S. oculata specimens, and 5 S. aculeata specimens, totalling 80 recent angel shark specimens found in Turkish waters mostly sent to us from small-scale fishers who had incidentally caught angel sharks. Also presented are four capture-induced parturition events in Turkish waters onboard fishing vessels, thus providing details on internal yolk sacs, reproductive habitats, and indications of spawning season. Our dataset presented here spans from 2018 to 2023 and suggests that mature adults of S. squatina and S. oculata still occur in Turkish waters, in Fethiye Bay and Çanakkale, respectively. Due to elevated chances of fishers encountering Critically Endangered angel sharks in Türkiye, we suggest that fishers are trained in handling and safe-release methods, to ensure reduced incidents of capture-induced parturition, and improved post-release survival. This study demonstrates that bottom set nets set by small-scale fishers pose less risk to mortality for angel sharks as they are almost always encountered alive after a usual 12 h soak time, suggesting that bottom trawling in critical habitats should be better regulated (or phased out) to help improve national angel shark conservation initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Testicular tumors (TTs) are rare in children, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This retrospective study evaluates the diagnostic and prognostic utility of SALL4 and OCT3/4 in pediatric TTs. We analyzed 18 cases of different types of TTs using immunohistochemistry (IHC) to assess SALL4 (Spalt-like transcription factor 4) and OCT3/4 (Octamer binding transcription factor 3/4) expression. SALL4 was positive in 83.3% of tumors, while OCT3/4 was positive in 38.9% of tumors, with a significantly higher prevalence in patients aged 12–18 years compared to those aged 0–11 years (p = 0.013). Mixed germinal cell tumors were significantly more frequently associated with OCT3/4 (p = 0.003), and a high immunostaining expression for SALL4 was observed primarily in yolk sac tumors and embryonal carcinoma. Our findings suggest that SALL4 and OCT3/4 immunostaining can aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, and underscores the importance of OCT3/4 as a predictive factor in pediatric testicular tumors, highlighting its substantial correlation with tumor type and its impact on treatment response. These markers may guide personalized therapeutic strategies, potentially improving patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chordoma, a rare malignant tumor arising from notochordal tissue, usually occurs along the spinal axis. Only a few published reports of primary lung chordomas exist. Herein, we present a case of primary lung chordoma and discuss important considerations for diagnosing rare chordomas. Case presentation: We report a case of primary lung chordoma in a 39-year-old male with a history of testicular mixed germ-cell tumor of yolk sac and teratoma. Computed tomography revealed slow-growing solid lesions in the left lower lobe. We performed wedge resection for suspected germ-cell tumor lung metastasis. Histologically, large round or oval cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm were surrounded by large cells with granular, lightly eosinophilic cytoplasm. Tumor cells were physaliphorous. Immunohistochemistry was positive for brachyury, S-100 protein, epithelial membrane antigen, vimentin, and cytokeratin AE1/AE3, suggesting pulmonary chordoma. Re-examination of the testicular mixed germ-cell tumor revealed no notochordal elements. Although some areas were positive for brachyury staining, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining did not show morphological features typical of chordoma. Complementary fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of the lung tumor confirmed the absence of isochromosome 12p and 12p amplification. Thus, a final diagnosis of primary lung chordoma was established. Conclusions: In patients with a history of testicular mixed germ cell tumors, comparison of histomorphology using HE and Brachyury staining of lung and testicular tumors, and analyzing isochromosome 12p and 12p amplification in lung tumors using FISH is pivotal for the diagnosis of rare lung chordomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemolysis‐induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is attributed to heme‐mediated proximal tubule epithelial cell (PTEC) injury and tubular cast formation due to intratubular protein condensation. Megalin is a multiligand endocytic receptor for proteins, peptides, and drugs in PTECs and mediates the uptake of free hemoglobin and the heme‐scavenging protein α1‐microglobulin. However, understanding of how megalin is involved in the development of hemolysis‐induced AKI remains elusive. Here, we investigated the megalin‐related pathogenesis of hemolysis‐induced AKI and a therapeutic strategy using cilastatin, a megalin blocker. A phenylhydrazine‐induced hemolysis model developed in kidney‐specific mosaic megalin knockout (MegKO) mice confirmed megalin‐dependent PTEC injury revealed by the co‐expression of kidney injury molecule‐1 (KIM‐1). In the hemolysis model in kidney‐specific conditional MegKO mice, the uptake of hemoglobin and α1‐microglobulin as well as KIM‐1 expression in PTECs was suppressed, but tubular cast formation was augmented, likely due to the nonselective inhibition of protein reabsorption in PTECs. Quartz crystal microbalance analysis revealed that cilastatin suppressed the binding of megalin with hemoglobin and α1‐microglobulin. Cilastatin also inhibited the specific uptake of fluorescent hemoglobin by megalin‐expressing rat yolk sac tumor‐derived L2 cells. In a mouse model of hemolysis‐induced AKI, repeated cilastatin administration suppressed PTEC injury by inhibiting the uptake of hemoglobin and α1‐microglobulin and also prevented cast formation. Hemopexin, another heme‐scavenging protein, was also found to be a novel ligand of megalin, and its binding to megalin and uptake by PTECs in the hemolysis model were suppressed by cilastatin. Mass spectrometry‐based semiquantitative analysis of urinary proteins in cilastatin‐treated C57BL/6J mice indicated that cilastatin suppressed the reabsorption of a limited number of megalin ligands in PTECs, including α1‐microglobulin and hemopexin. Collectively, cilastatin‐mediated selective megalin blockade is an effective therapeutic strategy to prevent both heme‐mediated PTEC injury and cast formation in hemolysis‐induced AKI. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pre-treatment characteristics of the patient and ectopic pregnancy to determine the patients who are likely to successfully respond to methotrexate (MTX) therapy remain controversial. This study investigated the outcomes of ectopic pregnancy after one and two MTX doses and their independent predictors. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study of women who consented to MTX treatment in 2017-2018 at our institution (N = 317). Of these, patients with Caesarean scar pregnancies were excluded because they require different treatment protocols (n=25). All patients were treated according to our institution's protocol based on international guidelines and standardised across the three hospitals included in the current study. We retrieved patients' demographics, laboratory, ultrasonography, and clinical characteristics from our hospital database. Serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) was measured using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay; ectopic pregnancy was diagnosed using ultrasonography (transvaginal probe). Results: Two ninety-two patients were included in the current analysis. Age, pre-treatment β-hCG levels, sonographic presence of yolk sac, presence of foetal cardiac activity, and pelvic pain were significantly different between patients with successful and unsuccessful outcomes. Younger age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16-4.66, p = .017), no pelvic pain (aOR 2.65, 95%CI 1.03-6.83, p = .043), lower initial β-hCG level (aOR 1.32, 95%CI 1.08-1.59, p = .005), and absence of foetal cardiac activity (aOR 12.63; 95% CI 1.04-153.6; p = .047) were independently associated with success. Treatment failure odds were >2 folds higher for each 10-year age increase (p = .017), 32% higher for each 1000 I U/L increase in initial β-hCG level (p = .005), and >2 folds higher in presence of pelvic pain (p = .043). Conclusions: MTX is effective in most patients, averting invasive surgery, which might affect fertility. Pre-treatment β-hCG levels, age, pelvic pain, and foetal cardiac activity was independently associated with outcomes. Research should assess the relationship between the ectopic pregnancy size and treatment outcomes and refine β-hCG titres where treatment would be ineffective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Decreased oestrogen receptor (ER) expression is a marker of poor prognosis in endometrial carcinomas (EC) of no specific molecular profile (NSMP), but the optimal cut‐off to separate high‐risk 'low ER' versus low‐risk 'high ER' expression has not been defined. Here we characterised the distribution of ER staining in a cohort of ECs. Methods and results: Biopsy specimens from 120 cases of NSMP EC were stained for ER and assigned an Allred score. In 66 additional cases ER staining of matched biopsy and hysterectomy were compared. Twelve of 120 tumours had an Allred score of 0–3, including three endometrioid carcinomas (EEA) (one G1, two G3), four clear cell carcinomas (CCC), two mesonephric‐like adenocarcinoma (MLA) and one each of: gastric‐type adenocarcinoma, carcinosarcoma and endometrial carcinoma NOS. Three had Allred scores of 4–5: two MLA and one high‐grade carcinoma with yolk sac differentiation. Five had Allred scores of 6: four EEA (one G1, one G2, two G3) and one mixed clear cell and endometrioid carcinoma. The remaining 100 tumours with Allred scores ≥ 7 were all EEA (66 G1, 28 G2, five G3 and one grade unknown). Comparing the biopsy versus hysterectomy ER staining (n = 66), the results were within a single Allred score point, except two cases with strong diffuse expression in the biopsy (Allred 8) and moderate expression in the hysterectomy (Allred 5). Conclusions: Most NSMP ECs (> 80%) show high ER expression (Allred score ≥ 7). All non‐endometrioid carcinomas and a few endometrioid carcinomas had lower ER expression (Allred score ≤ 6) or were completely negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe growing concern about pollution and toxicity in aquatic as well as terrestrial organisms is predominantly caused due to waterborne exposure and poses a risk to environmental systems and human health. This study addresses the co-toxic effects of cadmium (Cd) and ketoprofen (KPF), representing heavy metal and pharmaceutical discharge pollutants, respectively, in aquatic ecosystems. A 96-h acute toxicity assessment was conducted using zebrafish embryos. The results indicated that high dosages of KPF (10, 15, and 100 µg/mL) and Cd (10 and 15 µg/mL) reduced survivability and caused concentration-dependent deformities such as scoliosis and yolk sac edema. These findings highlight the potential defects in development and metabolism, as evidenced by hemolysis tests demonstrating dose-dependent effects on blood cell integrity. Furthermore, this study employs adult zebrafish for a 42-day chronic exposure to Cd and KPF (10 and 100 µg/L) alone or combined (10 + 10 and 100 + 100 µg/L) to assess organ-specific Cd and KPF accumulation in tissue samples. Organ-specific accumulation patterns underscore complex interactions impacting respiratory, metabolic, and detoxification functions. Prolonged exposure induces reactive oxygen species formation, compromising antioxidant defense systems. Histological examinations reveal structural changes in gills, gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver tissues, suggesting impairments in respiratory, osmoregulatory, nutritional, and immune functions. This study emphasizes the importance of conducting extensive research on co-toxic effects to assist with environmental risk assessments and safeguard human health and aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vertebrates, maternally supplied yolk is typically used in one of two ways: either intracellularly by endodermal cells or extracellularly via the yolk sac. This study delves into the distinctive gut development in sturgeons, which are among the most ancient extant fish groups, contrasting it with that of other vertebrates. Our observations indicate that while sturgeon endodermal cells form the archenteron (i.e., the primitive gut) dorsally, the floor of the archenteron is uniquely composed of extraembryonic yolk cells (YCs). As development progresses, during neurulation, the archenteric cavity inflates, expands laterally, and roofs a semicircle of YCs. By the pharyngula stage, the cavity fully encompasses the YC mass, which begins to be digested at the hatching stage. This suggests a notable deviation in sturgeon gut development from that in other vertebrates, as their digestive tract initiates its function by processing endogenous nutrition even before external feeding begins. Our findings highlight the evolutionary diversity of gut development strategies among vertebrates and provide new insights into the developmental biology of sturgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pholis fangi is a small, bottom-dwelling fish species endemic to the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea in China. While previous research has focused on its population biology and molecular structure, little is known about the early developmental stages of this species. In this study, larval and juvenile P. fangi specimens were collected from the Sheyang Sea Area, Jiangsu Province, in 2017. Morphological features were examined using microscopy, and DNA barcoding was conducted to confirm species identification. The research documented detailed changes in yolk sac, fin development, and melanophore distribution patterns across larval and juvenile stages of P. fangi. Comparative analysis with other Pholis species revealed that melanophore distribution is a key distinguishing characteristic, allowing effective differentiation between larval and juvenile stages, as well as between Pholis species. This study provides valuable insights into the early life history of P. fangi, contributing to a better understanding of the genus Pholis. The findings demonstrate the utility of combining traditional morphological observation and molecular techniques for accurate species identification, particularly during the critical larval and juvenile developmental phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Senegalese sole, Solea senegalensis, is a flatfish of high commercial value in the world. It has been identified as an interesting and promising species for marine commercial aquaculture diversification in Europe for at least four decades and was introduced to China in 2003. Early ontogenesis from embryo to juvenile stages in S. senegalensis was analysed under controlled laboratory conditions to provide morphological information for aquaculture. From 0 to 59 days post hatching (dph), 10–20 larvae were sampled and measured each day (0–17 dph) or every 2–6 days (17–59 dph). Morphological characteristics from the egg to the juvenile stage were described. The eggs were separate and spherical with multiple oil globules. After 3 dph, the yolk sac was completely absorbed, mouth and anus were open, a swim bladder appeared, and larvae began feeding on rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis). The larvae began metamorphosis as the notochord flexed upward and the left eye migrated upward after 10 dph. The left eye migrated to the dorsal midline at 15 dph. At 19 dph, the left eye was translocated to the right‐ocular side, and the juveniles adopted a benthic lifestyle. The swim bladder degenerated, and the juveniles completed metamorphosis at 23 dph. The growth patterns of some parameters (TL, SL, BH, BW) during larval and juvenile development stages were identified. The inflection points, which are slopes of growth changes, were calculated in growth curves. Three inflection points occurring in the growth curves of larvae and juveniles were found to be associated with metamorphosis, weaning, and transitions in feeding habits. The basic information of embryo development and ontogenesis in this study represents a valuable contribution to the S. senegalensis industry, especially in artificial breeding and rearing techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose has important roles in the development of zebrafish, the vertebrate animal model; however, in most oviparous animals, the amount of maternally provided glucose in the yolk is scarce. For these reasons, developing animals need some ways to supplement glucose. Recently, it was found that developing zebrafish, a teleost fish, undergo gluconeogenesis in the yolk syncytial layer (YSL), an extraembryonic tissue that surrounds the yolk. However, teleost YSL is evolutionarily unique, and it is not clear how other vertebrates supplement glucose. In this study, we used cloudy catshark (or Torazame catshark), an elasmobranch species which possesses a YSL‐like tissue during development, and sought for possible gluconeogenic activities in this tissue. In their yolk sac, glucose increased, and our isotope tracking analysis detected gluconeogenic activities with glycerol most preferred substrate. In addition, many of gluconeogenic genes were expressed at the YSL‐like tissue, suggesting that cloudy catshark engages in gluconeogenesis in this tissue. The gluconeogenesis in teleost YSL and a similar tissue in elasmobranch species implies conserved mechanisms of yolk metabolism between these two lineages. Future studies on other vertebrate taxa will be helpful to understand the evolutionary changes in the modes of yolk metabolism that vertebrates have experienced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peres fish (Osteochilus kappenii) is a native freshwater fish in Central Aceh, Indonesia. This study aimed to determine the morphology and histology development of the digestive tract of Peres larvae. Understanding the developmental stages is essential to support the success of larval rearing during ontogeny. The parameters observed include the total length (TL) of larvae, daily growth rate, larval morphology, and histology of the digestive tract. Furthermore, the total length of the larvae was measured from 1 to 25 day after hatching (DAH). The larvae sampling was conducted at 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 10, 15, 20, and 25 DAH. Morphological and histological observations were carried out microscopically, and data were analyzed descriptively. The results showed that the TL of larvae growth at the beginning (1 DAH) and termination (25 DAH) of the study was 4.58 ± 0.24 mm and 9.62 ± 0.79 mm, respectively. Based on the structural development of the body and food sources, the development of percussion larvae was divided into four phases, namely the yolk sac (0-4 DAH), pre-flexion (5-15 DAH), flexion (16-20 DAH), and post-flexion (21-25 DAH). The yolk was completely absorbed 4 DAH, marking the end of the yolk sac phase, as the Peres fish larvae began to use external feed. At 25 DAH, the larval morphology was fully formed and pigmentation spread throughout the body. The digestive organs and glands are well-developed with differentiation of the midgut and hindgut, increased goblet cells in the intestine, and increased lipid vacuoles in the liver and zymogen in the pancreas to utilize feed optimally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Correlation of Turner syndrome (TS) with germ cell malignancy is acknowledge in TS patient with Y chromosome material but not otherwise. This case report wishes to highlight yolk sac tumor occurrence in patients with TS 46XX karyotype mosaicism. Case Report: A 23-year-old nulligravid woman was admitted with abdominal mass and vaginal bleeding. She had primary amenorrhea and had already been diagnosed with TS. Her karyotype was 46XX with 5% X mosaicism. Ultrasonography revealed a solid mass measuring 14.05 x 10.99 cm based on the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) simple rule, M1 and M2. During surgery, a solid mass originates from her left ovary measuring 20 x 15 x 15 cm with adhesion to omentum, ileum, and caecum was found. Pathology examination reveals it's an endodermal sinus tumors (EST). Discussion: TS with Y cells are closely linked with germ cell malignancy but not otherwise. It's still unclear what causes the malignancy in such cases. Conclusion: The present report illustrates a rare case of EST occurred in a TS patient with 46XX mosaicism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transvaginal (TVUS) and transabdominal ultrasound (TAUS) are both utilized in the evaluation of early pregnancy patients. While many practitioners using point of care ultrasound (POCUS) will generally not pursue TVUS in cases where an intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) is visualized on TAUS, this may not be true in Radiology performed ultrasound. To evaluate for differences in transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) utilization between Radiology performed (RP) ultrasound and point of care ultrasound (POCUS) by Emergency Department (ED) physicians in early pregnancy patients. Secondarily, to assess length of stay (LOS) differences and the impact of specialized emergency ultrasound training on TVUS utilization. This was a retrospective study at a single academic ED. Study population was all ED patients who underwent first trimester ultrasound during the one year period of March 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022. Variables evaluated were chief complaint, gestational age, LOS, TAUS and TVUS utilization, ultrasound findings, and ultrasound specialty training of the ED physician. There were 133 cases of POCUS ultrasound and 254 cases of RP ultrasound. All cases had TAUS imaging performed. Median LOS for patients when POCUS was utilized was 207 min (IQR 151–294) and 258 min (IQR 208–328) for those only using RP ultrasound, p ≤ 0.001. In the POCUS cohort, 38% (95% CI 30%–46%) received TVUS, while 94% received TVUS in the RP cohort (95% CI 90%–96%), p ≤ 0.001. Patients seen by ED faculty with ultrasound specialty training had TVUS 53% of the time (95% CI 41%–65%), while those seen by other ED faculty had TVUS 79% (95% CI 74%–83%) of the time, p = 0.035. POCUS in early pregnancy is associated with a significant reduction in TVUS usage. We suspect that POCUS users elect not to pursue TVUS after an IUP is identified on TAUS, while technicians perform protocol-based TVUS irrespective of TAUS findings. Patients seen by ultrasound trained ED physicians are less likely to receive TVUS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External yolk sacs in free-living larvae of marine invertebrates are extremely rare, with all reported cases exhibiting yolk that is taken up through connection with the anterior alimentary canal. Herein, we confirm a novel yolk sac connected to the posterior end of the alimentary canal in the first larval stage of species in the bopyrid isopod genus Pleurocryptella Bonnier, 1900 , all known as ectoparasites in the branchial chambers of squat lobsters. Pleurocryptella poseidon Williams & Boyko sp. nov. infesting the munidopsid Galacantha   bellis   Henderson, 1885 in the Arabian Sea, is described on the basis of adults and larvae. In common with conspecifics, the new species exhibits a suite of putative "primitive" characters including the presence of oostegites on the sixth and seventh pereomeres of females and maxillipeds and articulated uropods in males. Pleurocryptella poseidon Williams & Boyko sp. nov. differs from other species of Pleurocryptella by characters of body shape, antennae, oostegite 1, pleon, and uropods of females and midventral tubercles, pleomeres, and pleopods of males. The epicaridium larvae have a large posterior, external yolk sac and segmented maxillipeds, a unique set of characters within Epicaridea. In addition to larval and adult characters, molecular data (COI) indicate that the genus is distinct from other members of Bopyridae, so we erect the new subfamily Pleurocryptellinae for it. Pleurocryptella poseidon Williams & Boyko sp. nov. bears a new genus and species of hyperparasitic isopod that is herein described based on its cryptoniscus stage. A review of epicaridium larval morphology and a key to the species of Pleurocryptella are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria continue to disrupt poultry production and can cause resistant and persistent yolk sac infections to prevention efforts, known as omphalitis, resulting in poultry death. This literature review aims to demonstrate how plant extracts can help combat omphalitis in poultry. The Google Scholar database served as a resource for retrieving pertinent literature covering a wide range of search terms relevant to the scope of the research. The search strategy involved a combination of terms such as antimicrobials, chick embryo, omphalitis, plant extracts, poultry nutrition, and sanitization. The potential of plant extracts in preventing or treating infections in poultry, especially omphalitis, is mainly due to their antibacterial and safety properties. Sanitization and direct delivery of plant extracts to the internal contents of eggs, feed, or water are cutting-edge interventions to reduce the bacterial load in eggs and poultry, minimizing infection rates. For example, these interventions may include advanced treatment technologies or precise delivery systems focused on disease prevention in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the morphological aspects of larval development in Maylandia estherae, an endemic cichlid species from Lake Malawi. Larvae obtained from mature broodstock were sampled daily from hatching until the juvenile stage, and their morphological development was observed under a microscope. Important morphological features such as mouth opening, exogenous feeding, free swimming, yolk sac, and pigmentation were observed and photographed. The findings indicate that M. estherae larvae reached the juvenile stage within approximately 20-25 days. Throughout larval development, it was determined that total length and mouth gape gradually increased, the yolk sac was depleted within 12-13 days, and exogenous feeding commenced alongside the development of free-swimming ability. Additionally, significant changes in fin differentiation and pigmentation were observed in the larvae. The larval development duration and morphological characteristics of M. estherae were found to be similar to those of other Malawi cichlid species. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the ontogenetic processes of M. estherae and have implications for aquaculture practices. Furthermore, the results provide a significant contribution to the literature on the larval development of Malawi cichlids and offer insights for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triclosan (TCS) and triclocarban (TCC) are two highly effective broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents having embryo toxicity, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity. These two chemicals are presently emerging pollutants of wide concerns and may cause cancer, DNA damage, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. In 2016, the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has banned market entry of the over-the-counter antibacterial bath products containing antibacterial agents such as TCS and TCC. In China, however, TCS and TCC are still allowed to be used in a limited quantity as quasi-preservatives for cosmetics, and are not restricted for soap products. As emerging exogenous chemical pollutants, TCS and TCC can enter the natural environment with domestic wastewater and pose potential threats to local aquatic lives, ecological security and human health. In order to investigate the toxic effects of TCS and TCC on the long-term exposure and four different developmental stages (i. e., embryo, yolk sac absorption, larval, and juvenile stages) of the Chinese native fish species of Gobiocypris rarus (GR), the fertilized eggs of GR were exposed to TCS and TCC until 60 days post hatching (60 dph) in this study. The results showed that TCS and TCC in the ranges of 6.25 ~ 100 µg ⋅ L-1 and 0.938 ~ 15 µg ⋅ L-1, respectively, had no significant toxic effects on the embryo hatchability of GR. In the larval stage, the no observed effect concentration (NOEC) of the 30 dph survival rate in the exposure groups of 6.25 ~ 100 µg ⋅ L-1 TCS and 0.938 ~ 15 µg ⋅ L-1 TCC were 100 µg ⋅ L-1 and 0.938 µg ⋅ L-1, respectively. According to the national standards of China, the hazards of TCC to the aquatic environment were classified as long-term chronic category 1. In contrast, it is impossible to make a clear judgment for TCS because its maximum testing concentration did not reach 1 mg ⋅L-1, but the hazards of TCS to the aquatic environment can be judged as the non-long-term chronic category 1. At the juvenile stage, TCS (6.25 ~ 100 µg ⋅ L-1) and TCC (0.938 ~ 15 µg ⋅ L-1) could induce vitellogenin in both females and males of GR, but did not affect sexual differentiation. During the postembryonic development, TCS of 6.25 ~ 100 µg ⋅ L-1 could significantly affect the fish body weight, which gradually decreased with increasing TCS concentration, indicating that TCS could inhibit the body weight of GR. TCC of 0.938 ~ 15 µg ⋅ L-1 had no significant effect on the fish body weight and body length. In addition, it was found that the toxic effects on the different developmental stages of GR were different. The tolerance of GR at embryonic stage was significantly higher than that at postembryonic development stage, while the tolerance at yolk sac absorption stage and larvae stage was lower than that at the juvenile stage. Therefore, when more of these life stages are included in a test, more toxicity endpoints can be obtained by fewer test animals. Moreover, the toxic effects of different life stages in the tests are all from the same batch of the test animals, making the test results of different life stages more comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transduction of mechanical stimuli produced by blood flow is an important regulator of vascular development. The vitelline and umbilico-placental circulations are extraembryonic vascular systems that are required for proper embryonic development in mammalian embryos. The morphogenesis of the extraembryonic vasculature and the cardiovascular system of the embryo are hemodynamically and molecularly connected. Here we provide an overview of the establishment of the murine and human vitelline and umbilico-placental vascular systems and how blood flow influences various steps in their development. A deeper comprehension of extraembryonic vessel development may aid the establishment of stem-cell based embryo models and provide novel insights to understanding pregnancy complications related to the umbilical cord and placenta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study sought to assess the efficacy of a newly developed scoring system in predicting treatment outcomes for ectopic pregnancy among patients undergoing single-dose methotrexate therapy. The primary research question centered on the reliability and predictive accuracy of objective parameters in determining methotrexate therapy success. Methods: Conducted as a retrospective single-center cohort study, data from 172 ectopic pregnancy patients treated with methotrexate between January 2021 and January 2023 were analyzed. Parameters including adnexal mass size, peritoneal fluid presence, yolk sac identification, endometrial thickness, ectopic pregnancy location, and initial B-hCG levels were meticulously evaluated for their association with treatment outcomes. Results: Following the exclusion of 21 emergency surgery cases, the final analysis comprised 151 patients. Notable associations were observed between specific parameters (fetal cardiac activity, adnexal mass size > 3.5 cm, peritoneal fluid presence, yolk sac identification, endometrial thickness > 10 mm, and initial B-hCG levels) and treatment outcomes (p < 0.001). Additionally, the novel scoring system demonstrated promising predictive performance. At a cutoff of 2.50, it achieved a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 59.7%. Increasing the cutoff to 3.50 resulted in a sensitivity of 94.0%, with a specificity of 46.3%. Conclusion: Objective parameters, particularly those integrated into the developed scoring system, exhibited substantial associations with methotrexate therapy outcomes in ectopic pregnancy. These findings underscore the potential of an objective scoring model to significantly influence clinical decision-making in therapy, offering avenues for enhanced prognostication and patient care in treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a high likelihood of being discharged into aquatic habitats, zinc oxide nanoparticles have been widely employed in a variety of industrial and commercial goods. Concerns over their effects on the environment and human health have grown. This study evaluated the developmental toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the embryo Java medaka (Oryzias javanicus). With three replicates for each treatment group, the Java medaka embryos were subject to various concentrations of ZnO NPs (10, 25, 50, 100, and 150 μg/L). The heartbeat of treated embryos was increased compared to the control group at 5-, 8-, and 11-days post-exposure (dpe). However, the hatching and mortality of embryos decreased when the concentrations of ZnO NPs increased. Meanwhile, deformities such as low pigmentation, edema (yolk sac and pericardial edema), and spinal deformities were observed in the embryo and larva during the exposure time. Compared to previous studies, ZnO NPs show severe toxicity to selected endpoints at lower concentrations in the embryos of Java medaka. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ancient roles of CRF and ACTH in immune-endocrine interactions were obtained early in the development process of fish alimentary canal. The immunolocalization of corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was inspected in the developing gut of Oreochromis niloticus larvae. The aim was to investigate a possible involvement of these molecules early in the integration of immunological and endocrine systems. Immediately after hatching, the gut of O. niloticus is observed as a straight undifferentiated tube, and with the rapid development, it differentiates into four segments: buccopharinx, esophagus, presumptive stomach and intestine. The immunohistochemical investigation showed the immunolocalization of CRF in the growing digestive tract at all stages (from hatching to 42 days post-hatching). Immunoreaction of CRF was detected in the mucosal epithelium of both the undifferentiated gut and the developing esophagus, stomach, and intestine. Furthermore, CRF immunoreactivity was found in the gastric glands of the stomach. The number of CRF-immunoreactive (ir) cells and the strength of immunoreaction gradually increased as the larvae developed, particularly after the exogenous feeding began; 21 days after hatching. Only the goblet cells of the developing intestine exhibited an ACTH immunoreactivity, which increased at 7dph during the yolk sac resorbtion period. A dramatic decrease was recoded in the number and size of ACTH-ir cells associated with the beginning of the exogenous feeding, and at 28 days post hatching, a very weak immunoreaction was produced. The widespread anatomic distribution and early onset of CRF and ACTH activities, in the developing gut, indicate that these molecules play a functional role in food intake, growth, immunological response, and osmoregulation during O. niloticus development, particularly with the start of the exogenous feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brook charr is a cold-water species which is highly sensitive to increased water temperatures, such as those associated with climate change. Environmental variation can potentially induce phenotypic changes that are inherited across generations, for instance, via epigenetic mechanisms. Here, we tested whether parental thermal regimes (intergenerational plasticity) and offspring-rearing temperatures (within-generational plasticity) modify the brain transcriptome of Brook charr progeny (fry stage). Parents were exposed to either cold or warm temperatures during final gonad maturation and their progeny were reared at 5 or 8 °C during the first stages of development. Illumina Novaseq6000 was used to sequence the brain transcriptome at the yolk sac resorption stage. The number of differentially expressed genes was very low when comparing fry reared at different temperatures (79 differentially expressed genes). In contrast, 9,050 differentially expressed genes were significantly differentially expressed between fry issued from parents exposed to either cold or warm temperatures. There was a significant downregulation of processes related to neural and synaptic activity in fry originating from the warm parental group vs fry from the cold parental one. We also observed significant upregulation of DNA methylation genes and of the most salient processes associated with compensation to warming, such as metabolism, cellular response to stress, and adaptive immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the regulatory mechanisms facilitating hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) specification during embryogenesis is important for the generation of HSCs in vitro. Megakaryocyte emerged from the yolk sac and produce platelets, which are involved in multiple biological processes, such as preventing hemorrhage. However, whether megakaryocytes regulate HSC development in the embryonic aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM) region is unclear. Here, we use platelet factor 4 (PF4)-Cre;Rosa-tdTomato+ cells to report presence of megakaryocytes in the HSC developmental niche. Further, we use the PF4-Cre;Rosa-DTA (DTA) depletion model to reveal that megakaryocytes control HSC specification in the mouse embryos. Megakaryocyte deficiency blocks the generation and maturation of pre-HSCs and alters HSC activity at the AGM. Furthermore, megakaryocytes promote endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition in a OP9-DL1 coculture system. Single-cell RNA-sequencing identifies megakaryocytes positive for the cell surface marker CD226 as the subpopulation with highest potential in promoting the hemogenic fate of endothelial cells by secreting TNFSF14. In line, TNFSF14 treatment rescues hematopoietic cell function in megakaryocyte-depleted cocultures. Taken together, megakaryocytes promote production and maturation of pre-HSCs, acting as a critical microenvironmental control factor during embryonic hematopoiesis. Synopsis: The contribution of immune cells to the emergence of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) during embryonic development remains unclear. Here, combined genetic and single-cell sequencing analyses reveal megakaryocytes as a critical niche component in the mouse embryonic aorta-gonad-mesonephros (AGM) region regulating HSC precursor generation. Megakaryocyte depletion reduces HSC activity in the AGM region. Megakaryocyte depletion decreases pre-HSC formation and maturation. CD226+ megakaryocytes most potently enhance HSC specification and promote endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition by secreting TNFSF14. TNFSF14 treatment rescues formation of hematopoietic cells in the megakaryocyte-deficient cocultures. CD226-positive megakaryocytes control hematopoietic stem cell specification in the developing mouse embryo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignant cancer worldwide, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein synthesized by the liver and yolk sac during fetal development. However, the serum levels of AFP exhibit a significant correlation with the onset and progression of HCC in adults. Extensive research has demonstrated that the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in the malignant transformation of HCC, and AFP is a key factor in the TME, promoting HCC development. The objective of this review was to analyze the existing knowledge regarding the role of AFP in the TME. Specifically, this review focused on the effect of AFP on various cells in the TME, tumor immune evasion, and clinical application of AFP in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. These findings offer valuable insights into the clinical treatment of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Microglia, brain resident macrophages, play multiple roles in maintaining homeostasis, including immunity, surveillance, and protecting the central nervous system through their distinct activation processes. Identifying all types of microglia-driven populations is crucial due to the presence of various phenotypes that differ based on developmental stages or activation states. During embryonic development, the E8.5 yolk sac contains erythromyeloid progenitors that go through different growth phases, eventually resulting in the formation of microglia. In addition, microglia are present in neurological diseases as a diverse population. So far, no individual biomarker for microglia has been discovered that can accurately identify and monitor their development and attributes. Summary: Here, we highlight the newly defined biomarker of mouse microglia, UGT1A7C, which exhibits superior stability in expression during microglia development and activation compared to other known microglia biomarkers. The UGT1A7C sensing chemical probe labels all microglia in the 3xTG AD mouse model. The expression of Ugt1a7c is stable during development, with only a 4- fold variation, while other microglia biomarkers, such as Csf1r and Cx3cr1, exhibit at least a 10-fold difference. The UGT1A7C expression remains constant throughout its lifespan. In addition, the expression and activity of UGT1A7C are the same in response to different types of inflammatory activators’ treatment in vitro. Conclusion: We propose employing UGT1A7C as the representative biomarker for microglia, irrespective of their developmental state, age, or activation status. Using UGT1A7C can reduce the requirement for using multiple biomarkers, enhance the precision of microglia analysis, and even be utilized as a standard for gene/protein expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim of this study was to provide a detailed characterization of the reproductive strategy, embryonic development, and larval development of three fish species from the genus Cichlasoma: the green terror (Andinoacara rivulatus), the red discus (Symphysodon discus), and the jaguar cichlid (Parachromis managuensis). Eggs for the study were obtained from five pairs of each species (300 eggs from each female) and incubated at 26 °C. Developing eggs were observed from fertilization to larval hatching, up to the complete absorption of the yolk sac. The results of the study will contribute to the development of reproductive biotechnology for the studied fish, enabling effective and easy breeding of these fish under controlled conditions. This will not only meet the demand for these species in the aquarium trade but also protect them in their natural habitat by discontinuing fishing activities. The purpose of this study was to characterize in detail the reproductive strategy, course of embryogenesis, and development of larvae in three species of fishes of the genus Cichlasoma: the green terror (Andinoacara rivulatus), the red discus (Symphysodon discus), and the jaguar cichlid (Parachromis managuensis). Eggs for the study were obtained from five pairs of each species (300 eggs from each female) and incubated at 26 °C. The developing eggs were observed under a microscope (Carl Zeiss Stereo Discovery. V12 and Nikon 2000SE software (NIS-Elements F 4.30.01 64-bit) from fertilization to larval hatching until complete yolk-sac resorption. The largest average number of eggs per female was found in the jaguar cichlid ( x ¯ = 2991 eggs), a smaller average number of eggs was shown in the green terror ( x ¯ = 922 eggs), and the red discus showed the smallest average number of eggs ( x ¯ = 300 eggs). There were significant differences in the sizes of the eggs of the studied species: jaguar cichlid eggs were the smallest (1.060 ± 0.05 mm3), red discus eggs were larger (1.070 ± 0.07 mm3), and green terror eggs were the largest (1.365 ± 0.16 mm3). The embryogenesis time in the red discus was 2132 °H (82 Hpf), in the green terror it was 2158 °H (83 Hpf), and the longest in the jaguar cichlid was 2470 °H (87 Hpf). At the end of embryogenesis, the average size of the larvae after hatching was measured (red discus x ¯ = 4.346 mm, green terror x ¯ = 5.203 mm, and jaguar cichlid x ¯ = 5.301 mm) and the time of yolk-sac resorption from the moment of hatching to the transition from endogenous to exogenous feeding was determined (jaguar cichlid 5 days, green terror 6 days, and red discus 3 days). The results of this study may contribute to the development of reproductive biotechnology for the studied fishes that could be used in aquaculture and, thus, help protect them in their natural habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Differences and similarities between human and mouse macrophages call for more human-centric studies. Hematopoiesis in the yolk sac, aorta–gonad–mesonephros (AGM) region, and fetal liver contributes to human macrophage ontogeny during prenatal development. Due to technical limitations, studying human macrophage biology is still in its infancy; however, studies can be accelerated by combining cutting-edge approaches that include single-cell methods and analyses, human organoid platforms, novel animal models, and computational biology. Our knowledge of mouse macrophages has progressed significantly over the past two decades, whereas our understanding of human macrophages is still in its infancy. Recent studies are unveiling the ontogeny and function of human macrophages. Cutting-edge approaches can be used to examine the diversity, development, niche, and functions of human tissue-resident macrophages. These methodologies can facilitate analyses of human macrophages and lay the groundwork for new therapeutic endeavors in macrophage-relevant disorders. Macrophages are vital tissue components involved in organogenesis, maintaining homeostasis, and responses to disease. Mouse models have significantly improved our understanding of macrophages. Further investigations into the characteristics and development of human macrophages are crucial, considering the substantial anatomical and physiological distinctions between mice and humans. Despite challenges in human macrophage research, recent studies are shedding light on the ontogeny and function of human macrophages. In this opinion, we propose combinations of cutting-edge approaches to examine the diversity, development, niche, and function of human tissue-resident macrophages. These methodologies can facilitate our exploration of human macrophages more efficiently, ideally providing new therapeutic avenues for macrophage-relevant disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Borneol is a widely used Chinese medicine, and borneol extracted from plants or synthesized are the two major types of borneol applied in clinical therapy. In this study, the hepatotoxicity of natural and synthetic borneol in both larval and adult zebrafish was detected. Methods: Adult fish and larval were exposed to borneol. Results: Synthetic borneol induced more obvious developmental toxicity, such as morphological deformity, delay of yolk sac absorption, disappearance of swim bladder, loose hepatic tissue, irregular cells, cell vacuolation and decline in cell count; treatment with synthetic borneol caused more severe oxidative stress, as changes in the activities of CAT and SOD and accumulation of ROS and MDA are more notable; synthetic borneol could disrupt lipid and glycogen metabolism more seriously possibly due to the more notable expression changes of metabolismrelated genes (ide, sirt4, dgat1b, and mgst1); synthetic borneol possibly produced hepatic injury by inducing cell apoptosis. Discussion: Our results suggest synthetic borneol has greater potential to cause hepatotoxicity compare to natural borneol. Conclusions: SB showed higher developmental toxicity than NB in larval zebrafish. Exposure to SB disordered the liver's lipid and glycogen metabolism caused by liver injury in higher concentration groups These findings have implications for understanding the mechanism of the hepatotoxicity caused by borneol, and provide a scientific basis for the drug safety of borneol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: According to estimates, between 30% and 40% of implanted pregnancies end in spontaneous abortion in the first trimester, with the majority happening fairly early on. Objectives: To evaluate gestational sac (GS) diameter and shape, yolk sac (YS) diameter and shape, embryonic heart rate (EHR) and crown rump length (CRL) during the first trimester as prognostic factors of first trimester pregnancy outcome. Patients and Methods: This prospective observational cohort study was carried out on 118 patients in Shebin Elkom Teaching Hospital and Menoufia University Hospital in uncomplicated singleton pregnancy from (20-35) years old women. Results: 109 cases (92.4%) resulted in an ongoing pregnancy and entered the 2nd trimester successfully, while 9 cases (7.6%) resulted in miscarriage. There was a highly statistically significant decrease in GS diameter, CRL, fetal heart rate but increase in YS diameter in fetal loss group more than ongoing pregnancy at 6, 9 and 12 weeks. Conclusion: The best indicator of the prognosis for first trimester pregnancy outcomes was YS diameter measurement. Fetal heart rate, GS diameter, and CRL diameter were the next best predictors, and an increase in YS diameter beyond what is expected for any gestational age (GA) and a decrease in any of these factors are indicators of poor pregnancy outcomes during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of chlorpyrifos on the embryonic development of Clarias gariepinus. Freshly fertilized eggs of C. gariepinus were subjected to varying concentrations of chlorpyrifos (0.01, 0.1, 1.0, and 10 μg L-1) during embryogenesis in a static renewal bioassay. The investigation focused on three crucial stages of embryogenesis: gastrulation, segmentation, and hatching. During the gastrulation stage, observations of germ rings, caudal edge, and cephalic edge were consistent across both treatment and control groups. Results from the segmentation stage revealed complete somite blocks in both treatment and control groups. At hatching, the optic primordial, myotomal muscle, yolk sac, notochord, and mouth gape were fully formed at 24 hours posthatching in the control and treatment groups, except at the highest concentration (10 μg L-1), where hatching did not occur. Notably, there were no significant aberrations during the embryogenesis period across the treatments. The hatchability test indicated that at the lowest concentration of chlorpyrifos (0.01 μg L-1), 60% of the thirty fertilized eggs hatched. The 0.1 μg L-1 treatment exhibited a hatching rate of 40%, while the 1.0 μg L-1 treatment group showed a hatching rate of 20%. Although exposure of catfish embryos to chlorpyrifos at reduced concentrations did not result in significant effects, except at 10 μg L-1, the mere presence of chlorpyrifos in water bodies underscores the need for further evaluation of the subtle effects at environmentally relevant concentrations, which can only be identified through mechanistic analysis, on the development of fish eggs, larvae, and other aquatic fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triclopyr, an auxin-like herbicide that is widely employed for managing weeds in food crops and pastures, has been identified in various environmental settings, particularly aquatic ecosystems. Limited understanding of the environmental fate of this herbicide, its potential repercussions for both the environment and human health, and its insufficient monitoring in diverse environmental compartments has caused it to be recognized as an emerging contaminant of concern. In this study, we have investigated how triclopyr affects zebrafish, considering a new alternative methodology. We focused on the endpoints of developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity, and behavior of zebrafish embryos and larvae. We determined that triclopyr has a 96 h median lethal concentration of 87.46 mg/L (341.01 µM). When we exposed zebrafish embryos to sublethal triclopyr concentrations (0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 50 μM) for up to 144 h, we found that 50 µM triclopyr delayed zebrafish egg hatchability. Yolk sac malabsorption was significant at 0.5, 1, 5, and 10 µM triclopyr. In zebrafish larvae, uninflated swim bladder was significant only at 50 µM triclopyr. Furthermore, zebrafish larvae had altered swimming activity after exposure to 10 µM triclopyr for 144 h. In summary, these comprehensive results indicate that even low triclopyr concentrations can elicit adverse effects during early zebrafish development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To report a case of heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy reduction using a combined hysteroscopic integrated Bigatti shaver (IBS) and resectoscope with the preservation of a normal gestational sac in the uterine cavity under simultaneous transabdominal ultrasound guidance. Video article. University-affiliated hospital. A 30-year-old woman, G5P2A2L2, with two previous cesarean deliveries and a history of fertility problems, was admitted with a heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy at 7+2 gestational weeks. Ultrasound examination showed a dichorionic diamniotic pregnancy. The first gestational sac (1.7 × 1.7 × 0.6 cm) was located in the previous hysterotomy scars, with a thin layer of myometrium measuring 0.2 cm in thickness and a rich blood supply. The second chorionic sac (2.8 × 2.4 × 1.8 cm) was observed at the uterine fundus. Normal cardiac activity and yolk sacs were observed in both gestational sacs. The couple strongly desired to preserve the intrauterine pregnancy. After Institutional Review Board approval was obtained, a hysteroscopic IBS combined with a bipolar resectoscope was used to remove the heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy while preserving the intrauterine gestational sac under simultaneous transabdominal ultrasound guidance. The heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy was completely resected using hysteroscopy, and the gestational sac in the uterine cavity was successfully preserved. Trophoblastic tissue was confirmed using histopathological examination. The patient had an unremarkable postoperative recovery. Subsequent serial ultrasonography confirmed a single ongoing pregnancy with normal growth parameters and a normal placental site. The inability of an IBS to perform coagulation can be offset by its combination with the bipolar resectoscope. Hysteroscopic IBS combined with resectoscope to remove a heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy offers a short operation time and minimum blood loss. It could be an optimized approach for the management of heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy in the first trimester when an intrauterine pregnancy needs to be preserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal immunoglobulin transfer plays a key role in conferring passive immunity to neonates. Maternal blood immunoglobulin Y (IgY) in avian species is transported to newly-hatched chicks in two steps: 1) IgY is transported from the maternal circulation to the yolk of maturing oocytes, 2) the IgY deposited in yolk is transported to the circulation of the embryo via the yolk sac membrane. An IgY-Fc receptor, FcRY, is involved in the second step, but the mechanism of the first step is still unclear. We determined whether FcRY was also the basis for maternal blood IgY transfer to the yolk in the first step during egg development. Immunohistochemistry revealed that FcRY was expressed in the capillary endothelial cells in the internal theca layer of the ovarian follicle. Substitution of the amino acid residue in Fc region of IgY substantially changed the transport efficiency of IgY into egg yolks when intravenously-injected into laying quail; the G365A mutant had a high transport efficiency, but the Y363A mutant lacked transport ability. Binding analyses of IgY mutants to FcRY indicated that the mutant with a high transport efficiency (G365A) had a strong binding activity to FcRY; the mutants with a low transport efficiency (G365D, N408A) had a weak binding activity to FcRY. One exception, the Y363A mutant had a remarkably strong binding affinity to FcRY, with a small dissociation rate. The injection of neutralizing FcRY antibodies in laying quail markedly reduced IgY uptake into egg yolks. The neutralization also showed that FcRY was engaged in prolongation of half-life of IgY in the blood; FcRY is therefore a multifunctional receptor that controls avian immunity. The pattern of the transport of the IgY mutants from the maternal blood to the egg yolk was found to be identical to that from the fertilized egg yolk to the newly-hatched chick blood circulation, via the yolk sac membrane. FcRY is therefore a critical IgY receptor that regulates the IgY uptake from the maternal blood circulation into the yolk of avian species, further indicating that the two steps of maternal--newly-hatched IgY transfer are controlled by a single receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]