bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of transvaginal ultrasonography and saline infusion sonography for the detection of intracavitary abnormalities in premenopausal women
Authors: Dijkhuizen F. P. H. L. J. , de Vries Laila D. , Mol B. W. J. , Brölmann H. A. M. , Peters H. M. , Moret Eveline , Heintz A. P. M.
Published: March 2003

Objective

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal sonography (TVS) and saline infusion sonography (SIS) for detecting intracavitary abnormalities in premenopausal women with abnormal uterine bleeding.

Method

Consecutive premenopausal women who underwent hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding were included. All women underwent TVS and SIS before their hysterectomy. The findings at TVS and SIS were compared with the findings of the hysterectomy specimen. Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios were calculated.

Results

The results of 50 patients with abnormal uterine bleeding were evaluated. Histological examination revealed normal endometrial histology in 27 patients, submucus myomas in 13 patients and intracavitary polyps in 10 patients. The sensitivity of TVS in directly visualizing intracavitary abnormalities was 61% for a specificity of 96%. The likelihood ratio of presence of an intracavitary abnormality was 16 and the likelihood ratio of absence of such a finding was 0.41. When defining abnormality at TVS as direct visualization of an intracavitary abnormality or an increased endometrial thickness (cut‐off level 5 mm), the sensitivity of TVS was 87% for a specificity of 56%, with corresponding likelihood ratios of 2 and 0.23, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of SIS was 100% and 85% with likelihood ratios of 6 and 0.0, respectively. No intracavitary abnormality was missed by SIS.

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of SIS is higher than the accuracy of TVS. A combined approach using endometrial thickness measurement by TVS and, reserving SIS for patients with increased (> 5 mm) endometrial thickness, or endometrium inadequately visualized on TVS, is the optimal method of reducing the hysteroscopy rate. Copyright © 2000 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Serial sonographic features of a fetus with hydranencephaly from 11 weeks to term
Authors: Lam Y. H. , Tang M. H. Y.
Published: March 2003

Fetal hydranencephaly is a rare congenital cerebral abnormality characterized by complete or near complete absence of the cerebral cortex. We present the sonographic evolution of a case of fetal hydranencephaly from 11 weeks of gestation to term. At 11 weeks, the fetal head appeared small and the forehead was sloping. The normal cerebral hemispheres could not be identified. Follow‐up sonography showed that the cerebral hemispheres were almost entirely replaced by fluid, except in the occipital region. The baby died 2 weeks after birth. Post‐mortem examination confirmed the diagnosis of hydranencephaly. Copyright © 2000 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of infantile myofibromatosis – a case report
Authors: Meizner I. , Shalev J. , Mashiach R. , Vardimon D. , Ben‐Raphael Z.
Published: March 2003

Infantile myofibromatosis, the most common soft tissue tumor of infancy, was diagnosed at 30 weeks of gestation. The tumor presented on ultrasound as a large mass measuring 42 mm × 75 mm × 35 mm located on the fetal back. The ultrasound diagnosis was further validated by MRI. Termination of pregnancy was carried out, and a multicentric visceral type of the tumor was diagnosed at autopsy.
The prenatal diagnosis of Binder syndrome before 24 weeks of gestation: case report
Authors: Cook K. , Prefumo F. , Presti F. , Homfray T. , Campbell S.
Published: March 2003

A case of Binder syndrome was diagnosed at 21 weeks of gestation using two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional ultrasound. The first indication of any abnormality was a flattened fetal nose demonstrated in the mid‐sagittal plane. Further ultrasound imaging showed the virtual absence of the naso‐frontal angle, giving the impression of a flat forehead and small fetal nose. Suspected mild hypertelorism was also seen using transverse and coronal planes. Differential diagnosis of this condition is discussed. Copyright © 2000 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Three‐dimensional transvaginal neurosonography of the fetal brain: ‘navigating’ in the volume scan
Authors: Monteagudo A. , Timor‐Tritsch I. E. , Mayberry P.
Published: March 2003

Objectives

Fetal neuroscan by ultrasound has gained in importance over recent years. Two‐dimensional (2D) transvaginal sonography was an important step in understanding the constantly changing and developing fetal brain. The objective of this article is to describe the use of three‐dimensional ultrasound of the fetal brain enhanced by the transvaginal transfontanelle scanning technique.

Methods

Thirty‐four pregnant patients were referred to us because of a history of brain anomaly or suspected brain pathology. The fetuses were scanned transvaginally. Two‐dimensional as well as three‐dimensional (3D) images were generated. The volumes obtained by the 3D‐ultrasound machine were displayed in the three conventional orthogonal planes (coronal, sagittal and axial).

Results

Of the 34 fetuses 10 had normal brain anatomy and 24 had brain pathology. In all 34 cases the 2D images as well as the 3D volumes were of diagnostic quality and all three planes could be obtained. The axial sections could only be obtained by the 3D re‐construction of the volume scans. The 2D images produced were acquired from a common point originating from the foot print of the transvaginal probe at the fetal anterior fontanelle or the sagittal suture, the sections ‘radiate’ from this point. Therefore, these sections are not parallel sections, but are oblique to each other. In contrast, the 3D volume could be examined using the classical parallel sections in all three orthogonal planes. The posterior fossa could be seen better if the footprint of the probe was placed over the posterior fontanelle or on the sagittal suture. The marker dot enabled a precise creation of anatomy and pathology. In the ‘angio mode’ it was possible to follow the anterior cerebral and pericallosal artery.

Conclusions

The 3D‐ultrasound technology using the transvaginal approach is effective and practical to perform during fetal neuroscan. The ability to ‘navigate’ in the volume and the ‘marker dot’ enables exact location of normal structures and evaluation fetal brain pathology. The volume can be reviewed over and over again, can be mailed to an expert, could be shown to consultants (pediatric neurology and neurosurgeons) and used for teaching. Copyright © 2000 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
The association of aneuploidy and mild fetal pyelectasis in an unselected population: the results of a multicenter study
Authors: Chudleigh P. M. , Chitty L. S. , Pembrey M. , Campbell S.
Published: March 2003

Introduction

Mild pyelectasis is a common finding and there is some debate as to its association with aneuploidy. The results of a large, prospective, multicenter study of mild pyelectasis designed to determine the incidence and association with aneuploidy in an unselected population are reported.

Methods

A large multicenter, prospective observational study of unselected fetuses with mild pyelectasis identified between 16 and 26 weeks' gestation in routine ultrasound departments.

Results

There were 737 fetuses with mild pyelectasis of which 12 had an abnormal karyotype. Pyelectasis was isolated in three fetuses with Down syndrome, but in one the mother was older (36 years).

Conclusion

These data confirm the fact that the presence of mild fetal pyelectasis increases the risk for aneuploidy, in particular trisomy 21. However, other risk factors should be considered before embarking on fetal karyotyping, as for most pregnancies complicated by isolated mild pyelectasis, risks of aneuploidy will remain small. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Two case reports of rare fetal tumors: an indication for surface rendering?
Authors: Hösli I. , Holzgreve W. , Danzer E. , Tercanli S.
Published: March 2003

Fetal tumors are rare and can be difficult to diagnose in utero. This report describes one case of an extrarenal rhabdoid tumor and one case of a giant congenital melanocytic nevus. Both presented with moderate polyhydramnios and were prenatally detected at 31 weeks of gestation with two‐dimensional ultrasound. The application of the surface mode of three‐dimensional ultrasound improved the visualization of these tumors especially for the parents and the multidisciplinary team. Three‐dimensional sonography proved to be a valuable addition to the prenatal armamentarium for the evaluation of these fetal tumors although it is not mandatory for their assessment and clinical management. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
The clivus–supraocciput angle: a useful measurement to evaluate the shape and size of the fetal posterior fossa and to diagnose Chiari II malformation
Authors: D'Addario V. , Pinto V. , Del Bianco A. , Di Naro E. , Tartagni M. , Miniello G. , Serio G.
Published: March 2003

Objective

To obtain a nomogram of the clivus–supraocciput angle as a basis for the diagnosis of Chiari II malformation in fetuses with ventriculomegaly.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was undertaken on 310 normal pregnant women of 16–34 weeks' gestation. A mid‐sagittal section of the fetal skull was obtained and the angle between the clivus and the supraocciput was measured. Forty‐four fetuses with ventriculomegaly due to various causes (13 Chiari II malformation, 12 dysgenesis of the corpus callosum, 7 aqueductal stenosis, 6 borderline ventriculomegaly, 3 Dandy–Walker malformation, 2 porencephaly, 1 schizencephaly) were also included in the study and the values of the angle found in the pathological cases were compared with those found in the normal population.

Results

The clivus–supraocciput angle did not change during gestation and was almost constant with an average value of 79.3 ± 6°. All cases of Chiari II malformation showed a value below the 5th centile of our nomogram.

Conclusions

The evaluation of the posterior fossa and particularly the measurement of the clivus–supraocciput angle is a useful parameter to differentiate the various causes of fetal ventriculomegaly and particularly to recognize Chiari II malformation. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Fetal heart rate and umbilical artery velocity variability in fetuses with congenital cardiac defects: a preliminary study
Authors: Ursem N. T. C. , Clark E. B. , Pagotto L. T. , Wladimiroff J. W.
Published: March 2003

Objective

To examine whether variabilities in fetal heart rate and umbilical artery flow velocity are possible markers for hemodynamic dysfunction in fetuses with a congenital heart defect.

Methods

Doppler studies of the umbilical artery velocity waveform were performed at 20–35 weeks of gestation in 13 patients with a congenital heart defect. We determined absolute and variability values for heart rate and flow velocities from umbilical artery velocity waveforms of a least 18 s duration. We compared these findings with normal controls matched for gestational age.

Results

Fetuses with a congenital heart defect displayed decreased umbilical artery peak systolic and time‐averaged velocities. However, variability in peak systolic and time‐averaged velocities and fetal heart rate variability were increased compared with normal controls. Absolute fetal heart rates were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Marked cardiovascular changes occur in the fetus with a congenital heart defect compared with the normal healthy fetus. We propose that variability in fetal heart rate and umbilical artery blood flow velocity could be additional markers for impaired homeostasis in the presence of fetal congenital heart disease. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Diagnosis of low‐lying placenta: can migration in the third trimester predict outcome?
Authors: Oppenheimer L. , Holmes P. , Simpson N. , Dabrowski A.
Published: March 2003

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between the rate of migration of a low‐lying placenta during the third trimester and the eventual route of delivery.

Methods

All patients with a placenta lying within 3 cm of the internal cervical os or overlapping it on transvaginal ultrasound at ≥ 26 weeks' gestation were included in the study. The exact distance between the center of the internal cervical os and the leading edge of the placenta was measured by transvaginal sonography, repeated at approximately 4‐week intervals until delivery.

Results

The mean rates of migration in patients who had (n = 7) and who did not have (n = 29) Cesarean section for placenta previa were +0.3 mm/week and +5.4 mm/week, respectively (P < 0.0001). When the placental edge was initially > 20 mm from the internal os, migration occurred in all cases and no Cesarean section for placenta previa was performed. For those between −20 mm and +20 mm, sufficient migration to avoid Cesarean section occurred in 88.5% of cases. Beyond a 20 mm overlap, significant placental migration did not occur and all patients required Cesarean section.

Conclusion

Placental migration may occur progressively throughout the third trimester. The initial position of the placental edge and the subsequent rate of migration can be used to predict the eventual route of delivery. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Persistent right umbilical vein: incidence and significance
Authors: Wolman I. , Gull I. , Fait G. , Amster R. , Kupferminc M. J. , Lessing J. B. , Jaffa A. J.
Published: March 2003

Objectives

To conduct a prospective evaluation of the incidence and neonatal outcome of fetuses with persistent right umbilical vein. This condition had traditionally been considered to be extremely rare and to be associated with a very poor neonatal prognosis, but later evidence has raised some doubts about the veracity of these contentions.

Methods

Between August 1995 and November 1998, 8950 low‐risk patients were prospectively evaluated at two medical centers. The sonographic diagnosis of a persistent right umbilical vein was made in a transverse section of the fetal abdomen when the portal vein was curved toward the stomach, and the fetal gall bladder was located medially to the umbilical vein.

Results

Persistent right umbilical vein was detected in 17 fetuses during the study. Four of them had additional malformations, of which three had been detected antenatally.

Conclusions

We established that the incidence of persistent right umbilical vein in a low‐risk population is 1 : 526. We believe that the sonographic finding of this anomaly is an indication for conducting targeted fetal sonography and echocardiography. When the persistent right umbilical vein is connected to the portal system and other anomalies are ruled out, the prognosis can generally be expected to be favorable. Copyright © 2002 ISUOG
Placenta accreta diagnosed at 9 weeks' gestation
Authors: Chen Y.‐J. , Wang P.‐H. , Liu W.‐M. , Lai C.‐R. , Shu L.‐P. , Hung J.‐H.
Published: March 2003

The majority of cases of placenta accreta are unanticipated and initially identified intraoperatively. Although color Doppler ultrasound is adequate for the evaluation of placenta accreta in the third trimester, ultrasound diagnosis in the first trimester has never been reported. To our knowledge, this is the first case of placenta accreta detected at 9 weeks' gestation by ultrasound. Placenta accreta with intraplacental lacunae can be identified together with a loss of the hypoechogenic retroplacental myometrial zone. Based on this case, we found that early diagnosis of placenta accreta in the first trimester by ultrasound is possible. Copyright © 2002 ISUOG
Two‐dimensional ultrasound is accurate in the diagnosis of fetal craniofacial malformation
Authors: Ghi T. , Perolo A. , Banzi C. , Contratti G. , Valeri B. , Savelli L. , Morselli G. P. , Bovicelli L. , Pilu G.
Published: March 2003

Objective

To assess the accuracy of antenatal ultrasound in the diagnosis of craniofacial malformations and to compare two‐dimensional with three‐dimensional ultrasound.

Methods

This was a retrospective study in which the archives of our ultrasound laboratory were searched for cases with an ultrasound diagnosis of craniofacial malformation in the period 1986–2001. No attempt was made to look for false‐negative diagnoses.

Results

Sixty cases with an antenatal diagnosis of a craniofacial malformation were found: 37 with cleft lip/palate; 17 with heterogeneous dysmorphisms (including mostly micrognathia and craniosynostosis) and 6 with miscellaneous craniofacial malformations. Associated anomalies were present in 48/60 (80%) cases, and holoprosencephaly (25 cases) was the most frequent of these. In 43 (72%) cases the diagnosis was made before 24 weeks' gestation. Postnatal follow‐up was available for 43 cases and there was always complete correlation between antenatal and postnatal diagnoses. Cleft lip/palate was always accurately differentiated from cleft lip. Three‐dimensional ultrasound was performed in 12 cases and was successful in 11. However, it did not provide further diagnostic information with regard to the two‐dimensional scan.

Discussion

Current two‐dimensional ultrasound in expert hands allows an accurate diagnosis of craniofacial abnormalities from early gestation. In our hands, three‐dimensional ultrasound did not add any valuable diagnostic information. Three‐dimensional ultrasound may facilitate the understanding of the lesion by the parents and facilitate communication with the plastic surgeons. However, these potential benefits need to be carefully weighed against the costs of the ultrasound instrumentation, increased examination time and training of personnel. Copyright © 2002 ISUOG
Three‐dimensional prenatal diagnosis of frontonasal malformation and unilateral cleft lip/palate
Authors: Shipp T. D. , Mulliken J. B. , Bromley B. , Benacerraf B.
Published: March 2003

Frontonasal malformation includes a spectrum of anomalies involving the eyes, nose, lips, forehead and brain. We present a case in which a fetal labial cleft was initially identified using traditional two‐dimensional sonography. Three‐dimensional sonography with multiplanar reconstruction and surface‐rendering were essential to establish the diagnosis of frontonasal malformation with severe nasal hypoplasia and unilateral complete cleft lip/palate. Copyright © 2002 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Impaired baroreflex function during pregnancy is associated with stiffening of the carotid artery
Authors: Visontai Z. , Lenard Z. , Studinger P. , Rigo J. , Kollai M.
Published: March 2003

Objective

The baroreflex sensitivity and the distensibility of the carotid artery were measured during normotensive pregnancy to test the hypothesis that changes in baroreflex sensitivity are related to carotid artery stiffening.

Design

Data were obtained from pregnant subjects during each trimester (T1, T2, T3; n = 23) and postpartum (n = 11). End‐diastolic diameter and pulsatile distension of the carotid artery were measured with an ultrasound wall‐tracking system, and the distensibility coefficient was calculated. Spontaneous fluctuations in cardiac interval and systolic pressure were used to determine baroreflex sensitivity.

Results

Both distensibility coefficient and baroreflex sensitivity were reduced from T1 to T3 (5.1 ± 1.6 vs. 3.7 ± 0.9 10−3/mmHg and 10.1 ± 2.9 vs. 5.7 ± 1.8 ms/mmHg, respectively). Baroreflex sensitivity and carotid distensibility coefficient were linearly related in each subject (r = 0.62 ± 0.12). Augmentation index and return time changes indicated a global increase in arterial distensibility.

Conclusions

Stiffening of the carotid artery significantly contributes to the impairment of baroreflex sensitivity during pregnancy, and represents a region specific change as global arterial distensibility was found to increase during pregnancy. Copyright © 2002 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Fetal learning: a prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: James D. K. , Spencer C. J. , Stepsis B. W.
Published: March 2003

Objectives

To examine whether prenatal exposure to a music stimulus alters fetal behavior and whether this continues into the newborn period.

Subjects and methods

A prospective randomized control trial was conducted using an exposure learning model in 20 normal term pregnancies. Music was played to ten fetuses via a headphone on the maternal abdomen. Ten controls had the headphone without sound. All fetal studies took place within 72 h prior to elective delivery. All 20 newborns were exposed to the same music on days 3–5. Computerized assessment of fetal heart rate and activity was documented and neonatal behavioral states were recorded. Nonparametric statistical analysis was used.

Results

For the first hour of study, exposed fetuses had higher mean heart rates (FHR) and spent more time exhibiting high FHR variation compared to unexposed fetuses, but neither of these differences was statistically significant. However, by the fourth hour the exposed fetuses not only demonstrated these two features but also exhibited more state transitions (P = 0.01) and higher FHR variation (P = 0.04) compared to unexposed fetuses. These effects were carried over into the neonatal period with prenatally exposed newborns manifesting more state transitions (P = 0.01) and spending a higher proportion of time in awake states (P = 0.05) when exposed to the same music stimulus.

Conclusion

Prenatal music exposure alters the fetal behavioral state and is carried forward to the newborn period. This suggests that a simple form of fetal programming or learning has occurred. Copyright © 2002 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Stromal cell organisation in the mouse lymph node. A light and electron microscopic investigation using the zinc iodide‐osmium technique
Authors: CRIVELLATO ENRICO , MALLARDI FRANCO
Published: March 2003

The organisation of the stromal cell compartment in the mouse lymph node was studied by light and electron microscopy after tissue impregnation by the zinc iodide‐osmium (ZIO) method. Fibroblastic reticular cells (FRCs) represented the main stromal cell population. These cells were located both in the cortical region and in the medulla and exhibited various configurations. In the cortex, FRCs were fusiform in shape and came into close proximity with the floor of the subcapsular sinus. In the medulla, the FRCs were shaped like irregular dendritic cells which formed a complex 3‐dimensional network. The FRCs surrounded vascular structures such as capillaries and/or high endothelial venules; in these instances they were organised in a discontinuous sheath‐like fashion around the vessel wall. By light and electron microscopy, FRCs have been observed to come in close spatial relationship with a number of cells in the lymph node, including sinus endothelial cells, the endothelium of high endothelial venules and capillaries, various types of lymphocytes, follicular dendritic cells and interdigitating cells. These microanatomical features are consistent with the proposal that FRCs may be involved in the communicative networks between the different lymph node compartments. In particular, the FRCs may be involved in the transport of molecules from the sinus compartment to the high endothelial venules or to the distinct cell populations in the lymphoid parenchyma.
Muscle patterning, differentiation and vascularisation in the chick wing bud
Authors: MURRAY BRENDA , WILSON D. J.
Published: March 2003

Adult muscle is highly vascularised, with blood vessels being essential for adequate oxygenation of the tissue and for supporting increased metabolic demands. Whether this is the case during muscle development has not been examined. Resin histology was used to map the muscle splitting process and conventional transmission electron microscopy to examine early muscle differentiation at the midlimb level or later at the mid radius/ulna level in the chick wing bud from stages 24 (4.5 d) to 36 (10 d) (Hamburger & Hamilton, 1951). Microinjection of India Ink into the extra‐embryonic vasculature was used to visualise the patent muscle microcirculation. The results showed that the premuscle masses are present at stage 24 and initial splitting of the muscle masses commences at stage 28. The final muscle pattern is not established until stage 36. At stage 26 the cells within the premuscle masses exhibited a mesenchymal morphology, but at stage 28 overt muscle differentiation was evident with myofibrils present within myoblasts. Undifferentiated mononucleated cells were interspersed with the differentiating myoblasts. The ratio of mononucleated cellsmyoblasts decreased and the myoblasts became plumper and increasingly packed with myofibrils with age. There was no evidence of secondary myotube formation at any of the stages examined. Vascular invasion of the limb occurred at stage 35 just prior to the establishment of the final muscle pattern. This was surprising as it was assumed that myogenic differentiation would be both oxygen and nutrient dependent. The results of this study provide descriptions of the splitting of the premuscle masses through to the establishment of the final muscle pattern at the midlimb or mid radius/ulna level of the chick wing bud together with the differentiation of the myogenic cells within the developing muscles. However, the relationship between muscle patterning at the tissue level and muscle differentiation at the cellular level with vascularisation remains unclear. It is hoped that the results of the study may provide the basis for future investigations into mechanisms involved in muscle patterning and the signalling mechanisms for vascular invasion.
Immunohistochemistry of a prostate membrane specific protein during development and maturation of the human prostate
Authors: RENNEBERG HEINER , WENNEMUTH GUNTHER , KONRAD LUTZ , AUMÜLLER GERHARD
Published: March 2003

An antiserum against secretory vesicles from human seminal fluid (prostasomes) was used to study the localisation and distribution of the respective antigen(s) during prenatal development and pubertal maturation of the human prostate. The crude antiserum stained both secretory and membrane proteins in the adult prostate and other glands, such as pancreas and parotid gland. An immunoaffinity purified fraction from the antiserum selectively reacted with the apical plasma membrane of prostatic epithelium adluminal cells, recognizing a 100 kDa antigen (PMS). Even in the earliest stages of embryonic prostate specimens studied, the adluminal plasma membrane of the epithelial cells from developing glandular anlagen reacted strongly. The occurrence of PMS immunoreactivity in prostatic anlagen was directly correlated with lumen formation. As the antigen is an androgen‐independently synthesised membrane protein of the prostate, it may possibly be used as a marker of cell polarity in the normal and pathologically altered prostate.
Production of consistent crush lesions of murine skeletal muscle in vivo using an electromechanical device
Authors: RUSHTON J. L. , DAVIES I. , HORAN M. A. , MAHON M. , WILLIAMS R.
Published: March 2003

The crush model of injury in skeletal muscle is widely used in the investigation of tissue degeneration and regeneration. Previously, such trauma has been induced by using forceps to crush the muscle, commonly applying sufficient pressure to bring the mid‐arms of the forceps together. This report introduces a reliable electromechanical device designed to generate reproducible focal lesions in skeletal muscle of mice. The tibialis anterior was crushed in 17 young adult mice. Two days after injury, the muscles were examined microscopically. By morphometric analysis, it was determined that the volumes of the lesions produced were similar (mean 0.499 mm3±0.098, range 0.278−0.601 mm3), and that the full extent of the damaged muscle was easily distinguished and readily quantifiable. This will allow a more precise comparison in future investigations into regenerative differences between age groups, satellite cell activation and the inflammatory response.
Age‐related changes in cortical porosity of the midshaft of the human femur
Authors: FEIK S. A. , THOMAS C. D. L. , CLEMENT J. G.
Published: March 2003

Complete cross‐sections from the femoral midshaft of 180 individuals of known height and weight, aged 21–97 y, from a modern Australian population were examined using automatic video image analysis to quantify total subperiosteal porosity (TSPP). More specifically, the aim was to investigate whether age changes were similar in both sexes in (1) total subperiosteal area (TSPA), cortical area (CA) and medullary area (MA), (2) intracortical porosity (ICP), and (3) the respective contributions to TSPP made by MA and intracortical void area (ICVA). Our findings indicated that both sexes showed a significantly greater height normalised TSPA in the 70s as compared with the 20s. Males had consistently larger bones with a greater height normalised CA. In both sexes CA showed a tendency to increase till the 7th decade and then to decline, more so in females. MA approximately trebled in females and doubled in males over the age range studied. Although ICP also increased, from 4–6% in young adults to over 9% in the elderly, it showed a significant difference between the sexes only in the 3rd decade, being greater in males at this stage. By contrast, TSPP became significantly greater in females (from that recorded in the 3rd decade) by the time they reached the 50s, while in males this did not occur till the 80s. It increased from ∼25% in young adults of both sexes to ∼50% in females and ∼37% in males in their 80s. However, in the elderly there was great variability in both sexes in the appearance of bones from individuals of similar chronological age. Some bones differed little from those in younger subjects, others showed greatly increased ICP, still others displayed reduced cortical widths with low ICP. The femoral midshaft resembles other skeletal sites in that age changes in TSPP are more marked in females than males.
Incidence and morphology of accessory heads of flexor pollicis longus and flexor digitorum profundus (Gantzer's muscles)
Authors: JONES M. , ABRAHAMS P. H. , SAÑUDO J. R. , CAMPILLO M.
Published: March 2003

In 1813 Gantzer described 2 accessory muscles in the human forearm which bear his name (Wood, 1868; Macalister, 1875; Testut, 1884; Le Double, 1897). The more frequent of the 2 accessory muscles or ‘accessorius ad pollicem’ was found to arise from the coronoid process of the ulna, coursing distally to attach into the flexor pollicis longus muscle (flexor pollicis longus accessory head, FPLah). The less frequently observed or ‘accessorius ad flexorem profundum digitorum’ was again found to arise from the coronoid process and course to join into the flexor digitorum profundus (flexor digitorum profundus accessory head, FDPah). Since their initial description, they have been examined in further detail by a number of authors (Wood, 1868; Macalister, 1875; Le Double, 1897; Dykes & Anson, 1944; Mangini, 1960; Malhotra et al. 1982; Dellon & McKinnon, 1987; Kida, 1988). These studies, most of them focusing on the FPLah, all show different results of prevalence, origin, insertion, relations and nerve supply. We undertook this study with the aim of providing a more accurate account of the detailed morphology of both accessory muscles because of the above‐mentioned inconsistent anatomical descriptions and the lack of information as to important aspects such as vascular supply, morphology (shape and length) and the coexistence of both accessory heads.
In vivo fibre optic confocal imaging of microvasculature and nerves in the rat vas deferens and colon
Authors: PAPWORTH G. D. , DELANEY P. M. , BUSSAU L. J. , VO L. T. , KING R. G.
Published: March 2003

A fluorescence confocal microscopy technique was employed to obtain subsurface images of nerve and microvascular structure in the vas deferens and colon of the living rat. The use of dual labelling with vital dyes and 2‐channel confocal acquisition allowed differentiation of microscopic structure at both low and higher magnification. Characteristic staining patterns of nerves and blood vessels were repeatedly obtained in each tissue, suggesting the potential of this technique for studying morphological changes associated with surgical procedures and/or models of neuronal or vascular pathology.
Computer‐generated three‐dimensional reconstructions of serially sectioned mouse embryos
Authors: KAUFMAN M. H. , BRUNE R. M. , DAVIDSON D. R. , BALDOCK R. A.
Published: March 2003

We have been involved with a group of computer scientists and anatomists in the development of computer‐based methodologies that not only combine the advantages of scanning electron microscopy and conventional histology, but provide the additional dimension of tissue recognition. The latter is achieved by the appropriate labelling of tissues and structures by delineation or ‘painting’. Individually segmented anatomically defined tissues can be highlighted in a particular colour and viewed either in isolation or in combination with other appropriately labelled tissues and organs. Tissues can be shown in any orientation either as a transparent overlay on computer‐generated histological sections or as 3‐D images without the histological background. An additional feature of the system is that computer graphics technology combined with 3‐D glasses now also allows the viewer to see the object under analysis in stereo. This facility has been found to be particularly helpful in drawing attention to topological relationships that had not previously been readily noted. As the mouse is now the mammalian model of choice in many areas of developmental research, it is of critical importance that a basic level of skill is available in the research community in the interpretation of serially sectioned material, for example, for the rapidly expanding field in which gene expression studies play a significant role. It is equally important that there is an understanding of the dynamic changes that occur in relation to the differentiation of the various organ systems seen in these early stages of development. What we emphasise here is the additional information that it is possible to gain from the use of this tool which, in our view, could not readily have been gained from the analysis of scanning electron micrographs or by studying conventional serial histological sections of similar stages of mouse embryonic development. The methodology has been developed as part of a large project to prepare a database of mouse developmental anatomy covering all stages from fertilisation to birth in order to allow the accurate spatial mapping of gene expression and cell lineage data onto the digital Atlas of normal mouse development. In this paper we show how this digital anatomical Atlas also represents a valuable teaching aid and research tool in anatomy.
In oculo transplants of myometrium from postpartum guinea pigs fail to support sympathetic reinnervation
Authors: BRAUER M. MONICA , BURNSTOCK GEOFFREY , THRASIVOULOU CHRISTOPHER , COWEN TIMOTHY
Published: March 2003

Sympathetic nerves to the enlarged fetus‐containing region of the uterus undergo degenerative changes during late pregnancy and show slow regrowth after parturition. It is not known whether this unusual response of sympathetic nerves to smooth muscle hypertrophy is due to the sensitivity of short adrenergic neurons to hormonal changes, or whether the nerves respond to changes in the neurotrophic capacity of the target. We have investigated this question using in oculo transplantation. Small pieces of myometrium from the uterine horn of virgin guinea pigs, or from the region previously occupied by the placenta and fetus in postpartum guinea pigs, were transplanted into the anterior eye chamber. After 3 wk in oculo, the pattern of reinnervation of the transplants was assessed on whole mount stretch preparations stained for tyrosine hydroxylase. The histology of the transplants was examined in toluidine blue‐stained semithin sections. Myometrial transplants from virgin donors and uterine artery transplants from both virgin and postpartum donors became organotypically reinnervated by sympathetic fibres from the host iris. In contrast, sympathetic nerves did not reinnervate myometrial transplants from postpartum donors, although they approached the transplants and became distributed in the surrounding connective tissue. All transplanted tissues showed a normal histological appearance. Both the myometrium and uterine artery from postpartum donors retained a hypertrophic appearance after 3 wk in oculo. We interpret these results to indicate that the degeneration of sympathetic nerves in late pregnancy, as well as their slow regrowth to the uterus after delivery, may be due to changes in uterine smooth muscle rather than a particular sensitivity of short adrenergic neurons to hormonal changes.
Possible role of serotonin in Merkel‐like basal cells of the taste buds of the frog, Rana nigromaculata
Authors: HAMASAKI KOJIRO , SETA YUJI , YAMADA KENJIRO , TOYOSHIMA KUNIAKI
Published: March 2003

Merkel‐like basal cells in the taste buds of the frog were examined by fluorescence histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. There were about 16–20 basal cells arranged in a radial fashion at the base of each taste bud. These cells were strongly immunopositive for serotonin antiserum. They were characterised by the presence of numerous dense‐cored granules in the cytoplasm ranging from 80 to 120 nm in diameter, and of microvilli protruding from the cell surface. For 4 mo after sensory denervation by cutting the gustatory nerves, all cell types of the taste bud were well preserved and maintained their fine structure. Even at 4 mo after denervation, the basal cells exhibited a strong immunoreaction with serotonin antiserum. To investigate the function of serotonin in the basal cells in taste bud function, serotonin deficiency was induced by administration of p‐chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), an inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase, and of p‐chloroamphetamine (PCA), a depletor of serotonin. After administration of these agents to normal and denervated frogs for 2 wk, a marked decrease, or complete absence, of immunoreactivity for serotonin was observed in the basal cells. Ultrastructurally, degenerative changes were observed in both types of frog; numerous lysosome‐like myelin bodies were found in all cell types of the taste buds. The number of dense‐cored granules in the basal cells also was greatly decreased by treatment with these drugs. Serotonin in Merkel‐like basal cells appears to have a trophic role in maintenance of the morphological integrity of frog taste bud cells.
Peripheral nerve regeneration and neurotrophic factors
Authors: TERENGHI GIORGIO
Published: March 2003

The role of neurotrophic factors in the maintenance and survival of peripheral neuronal cells has been the subject of numerous studies. Administration of exogenous neurotrophic factors after nerve injury has been shown to mimic the effect of target organ‐derived trophic factors on neuronal cells. After axotomy and during peripheral nerve regeneration, the neurotrophins NGF, NT‐3 and BDNF show a well defined and selective beneficial effect on the survival and phenotypic expression of primary sensory neurons in dorsal root ganglia and of motoneurons in spinal cord. Other neurotrophic factors such as CNTF, GDNF and LIF also exert a variety of actions on neuronal cells, which appear to overlap and complement those of the neurotrophins. In addition, there is an indirect contribution of GGF to nerve regeneration. GGF is produced by neurons and stimulates proliferation of Schwann cells, underlining the close interaction between neuronal and glial cells during peripheral nerve regeneration. Different possibilities have been investigated for the delivery of growth factors to the injured neurons, in search of a suitable system for clinical applications. The studies reviewed in this article show the therapeutic potential of neurotrophic factors for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury and for neuropathies.
Release of vasoactive substances from endothelial cells by shear stress and purinergic mechanosensory transduction
Authors: BURNSTOCK GEOFFREY
Published: March 2003

The evidence for release of vasoactive substances from endothelial cells in response to shear stress caused by the viscous drag of passing fluids is reviewed and, in particular, its physiological significance both in short‐term regulation of blood vessel tone and in long‐term regulation of cell growth, differentiation, proliferation, and cell death in pathophysiological conditions is discussed. A new concept of purinergic mechanosensory transduction, particularly in relation to nociception, is introduced. It is proposed that distension of tubes (including ureter, vagina, salivary and bile ducts, gut) and sacs (including urinary and gall bladders, and lung) leads to release of ATP from the lining epithelium, which then acts on P2X2/3 receptors on subepithelial sensory nerves to convey information to the CNS.
Organisation of the chondrocyte cytoskeleton and its response to changing mechanical conditions in organ culture
Authors: DURRANT L. A. , ARCHER C. W. , BENJAMIN M. , RALPHS J. R.
Published: March 2003

Articular cartilage undergoes cycles of compressive loading during joint movement, leading to its cyclical deformation and recovery. This loading is essential for chondrocytes to perform their normal function of maintenance of the extracellular matrix. Various lines of evidence suggest the involvement of the cytoskeleton in load sensing and response. The purpose of the present study is to describe the 3‐dimensional (3D) architecture of the cytoskeleton of chondrocytes within their extracellular matrix, and to examine cytoskeletal responses to experimentally varied mechanical conditions. Uniformly sized explants of articular cartilage were dissected from adult rat femoral heads. Some were immediately frozen, cryosectioned and labelled for filamentous actin using phalloidin, and for the focal contact component vinculin or for vimentin by indirect immunofluorescence. Sections were examined by confocal microscopy and 3D modelling. Actin occurred in all chondrocytes, appearing as bright foci at the cell surface linked to an irregular network beneath the surface. Cell surface foci colocalised with vinculin, suggesting the presence of focal contacts between the chondrocyte and its pericellular matrix. Vimentin label occurred mainly in cells of the deep zone. It had a complex intracellular distribution, with linked networks of fibres surrounding the nucleus and beneath the plasma membrane. When cartilage explants were placed into organ culture, where in the absence of further treatments cartilage imbibes fluid from the culture medium and swells, cytoskeletal changes were observed. After 1 h in culture the vimentin cytoskeleton was disassembled, leading to diffuse labelling of cells. After a further hour in culture filamentous vimentin label reappeared in deep zone chondrocytes, and then over the next 48 h became more widespread in cells of the explants. Actin distribution was unaffected by culture. Further experiments were performed to test the effects of load on the cytoskeleton. Explants were placed in culture and immediately subjected to static uniaxial radially unconfined compressive loads of 0.5, 1, 2 or 4 MPa for 1 h using a pneumatic loading device. Loads greater than 0.5 MPa maintained the vimentin organisation over the culture period. At 0.5 MPa, the chondrocytes within the explant behaved as in free‐swelling culture. The rapid change in vimentin organisation probably relates to rapid swelling of the explants—under free‐swelling conditions, these reached their maximum swollen size in just 15 min of culture. The chondrocytes' response to change in tissue dimensions, and thus to their relationship to their immediate environment, was to disassemble their vimentin networks. Loading probably counteracts the swelling pressure of the tissue. Overall, this work suggests that chondrocytes maintain their actin cytoskeleton and modify their vimentin cytoskeleton in response to changing mechanical conditions.
Distribution of fast myosin heavy chain‐based muscle fibres in the gluteus medius of untrained horses: mismatch between antigenic and ATPase determinants
Authors: LINNANE LINDA , SERRANO A. L. , RIVERO J. L. L.
Published: March 2003

The distribution of muscle fibres classified on the basis of their content of different myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms was analysed in muscle biopsies from the gluteus medius of adult untrained horses by correlating immunohistochemistry with specific anti‐MHC monoclonal antibodies and standard myofibrillar ATPase (mATPase) histochemistry. Percutaneous needle biopsies were taken at 3 depths (20, 40 and 60 mm) from 4 4‐y‐old Andalusian stallions. The percentage of ‘pure’ I MHC fibres increased whereas that for pure IIX MHC fibres decreased from the most superficial to the deepest sampling site. Within the fast fibres, types IIA and IIAX MHC‐classified fibres were proportionately more abundant in the deepest sampling site than in the superficial region of the muscle. The immunohistochemical and histochemical characterisation of a large number of single fibres (n=1375) was compared and correlated on a fibre‐to‐fibre basis. The results showed that 40% of the fibres analysed were pure type I (expressing only MHC‐I); they showed correct matching between their antigenic and mATPase determinants. In contrast, within the fast fibres, a considerable proportion of fibres were found showing a mismatch between their immunohistochemical and mATPase profiles. The most common mismatched fibre phenotypes comprised fibres displaying coexpression of both fast MHCs when analysed by immunocytochemistry, but showing an mATPase profile similar to typical IIX fibres (moderate mATPase reaction after preincubation at pH 4.4). Considered altogether, the total mismatched fibres represented only 4.2% of the whole fast fibre population in the superficial region of the muscle, but their proportion increased to 15.6% and 38.4% in the middle and deep regions, respectively, of gluteus medius. It is concluded that a considerable number of hybrid fast MHC IIAX fibres are present in the gluteus medius of untrained horses, suggesting that equine type II fibres have probably been misclassified in numerous previous publications based on the use of histochemistry alone. This has important implications in attempts to study the physiological properties of fast fibre types adequately in horses.
Location of the phrenic nucleus in the human spinal cord
Authors: ROUTAL R. V. , PAL G. P.
Published: March 2003

Eight normal human spinal cords were studied. Spinal segments were identified and embedded in paraffin wax. Serial cross sections were cut at 25 μm and stained by cresyl violet. Motor columns were reconstructed adapting Elliott's (1942) methods. Motor columns were classified into the medial and lateral divisions and were numbered sequentially from medial to lateral at the level of Cl. In the cervical cord, 8 motor columns were traced. Column 1, corresponding to the medial column, presented 3 subdivisions designated as 1a, 1b and 1c with ventral, dorsal and lateral positions respectively. Columns 1a and 1b extended throughout the cervical region while 1c was confined to 3rd, 4th and 5th cervical segments. At the level of C3, 1c was a discrete column situated lateral to 1a and 1b but at C4 and C5 it became displaced medially close to the medial margin of the ventral horn. In cross section, it presented smaller medial and large lateral part. With the help of clinical and developmental evidence an attempt was made to correlate column 1c with the phrenic nucleus.