bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of celecoxib, a COX‐2 selective inhibitor, on duodenal HCO3‐ and ulcereogenic responses caused by mucosal acidification in rats (904.3)
Authors: Takeuchi Koji , Amagase Kikuko , Hara Tomoya
Published: June 2021

We examined the effect of celecoxib, a selective COX‐2 inhibitor, on duodenal HCO3‐ and ulcerogenic responses caused by acid in rats, in comparison with indomethacin and loxoprofen (nonselective COX inhibitors) or SC‐560 (a selective COX‐1 inhibitor). Methods: Male SD rats were used after 18 h fasting. Under urethane anesthesia, the duodenal loop was perfused with saline, and the HCO3‐ secretion was measured at pH 7.0 using a pH‐stat method. Results: Mucosal acidification (exposure to 10 mM HCl for 10 min) stimulated HCO3‐ secretion with an increase of mucosal PGE2 contents in the duodenum. These responses were significantly attenuated by pretreatment with indomethacin, loxoprofen or SC‐560, while celecoxib had no effect. Perfusion of the loop with 100 mM HCl for 4 h produced mild hemorrhagic damage, and the severity of these lesions was significantly aggravated by indomethacin, loxoprofen and SC‐560 but not celecoxib. COX‐2 was not expressed in the duodenal mucosa after acidification, while COX‐1 was expressed in the normal mucosa and remained unchanged after acid treatment. Conclusion: These results confirmed the importance of COX‐1 in the mechanism for the acid‐induced duodenal HCO3‐ secretion and further suggested that COX‐1/PGs play a crucial role in the protection of the duodenal mucosa against acid injury.
Activation of long‐chain free fatty acid receptor FFAR1 (GPR40) and FFAR4 (GPR120) causes release of brain‐derived neurotropic factor from enteric glial cells (905.2)
Authors: Alkahtani Reem , Mahavadi Sunila , Alqudah Mohammad , Murthy Karnam , Grider John
Published: June 2021

Recent deorphanization of several G protein‐coupled receptors (GPRs) as endogenous receptors for free fatty acids (FFARs) has increased our understanding of these nutrients as signaling molecules and the integral role of the gut microbiota in the regulation of host defense mechanisms, energy metabolism, gastrointestinal motility, and secretion. Enteric glial cells and neurotrophins such as BDNF, glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) are essential for the development and integrity of enteric nervous system in the gut. The role of free fatty acid receptors in the regulation of BDNF release from enteric glial cells, however, is not known. Aim. To determine the expression of FFARs and the signaling pathways coupled to FFAR1 and FFAR4, receptors for long chain fatty acids, that mediate BDNF release from enteric glial cells. Results. Quantitative RT‐PCR and western blot studies showed expression of FFAR1, FFAR2, FFAR3, FFAR4 and GPR84 in enteric glial cells; expression of FFAR1, however, was more abundant than other receptors. Linolenic acid which activates FFAR1/FFAR4 caused an increase in phosphoinositide hydrolysis (measured in [3H]myo‐inositol labeled cells), intracellular Ca2+ (measured in Fura‐2 loaded cells) and BDNF release (measured by ELISA). Conclusion. Enteric glial cells express receptors for free fatty acids and activation of FFAR1 and FFAR4 causes BDNF release via stimulation of PLC‐β/IP3/Ca2+ pathway.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by DK34153
Cardiac hypertrophy is associated with upregulation of alpha myosin heavy chain in Hfe‐deficient mice (907.6)
Authors: Sukumaran Abitha , Chang JuOae , Khaw Ban‐An , Kim Jonghan
Published: June 2021

Cardiac hypertrophy is associated with up‐regulation of alpha myosin heavy chain in Hfe‐deficient mice Abitha Sukumaran, JuOae Chang, Ban‐An Khaw and Jonghan Kim Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Massachusetts, United States of America.

Cardiac damage induced by iron overload is the common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). Mutations in HFE are the major cause of hemochromatosis in humans. However, the precise molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of iron‐induced cardiotoxicity are largely unexplored. Here we investigated the effect of HFE and iron on cardiac damage using Hfe‐deficient (Hfe‐/‐) mice, a model of human HH. At the age of 5‐month, Hfe‐/‐ mice displayed elevated iron levels in the heart (p=0.0352). This was associated with increased mRNA expression of divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) that lacks iron‐response element (p=0.0124), which likely promotes non‐transferrin‐bound iron uptake. In addition, heart/body weight ratio was significantly increased (15% greater than controls; p=0.0004; n=6‐9/group). Cardiac hypertrophy in Hfe‐/‐ mice was consistent with increased protein levels of alpha myosin heavy chain (p=0.0381), a marker of cardiomyocytes. All these changes were not observed in 1‐month old mice, suggesting an age‐dependent effect of Hfe deficiency on the pathogenesis of cardiotoxicity. Since reduced anti‐oxidant enzyme activities are associated with hypertrophy, increased cardiac iron in Hfe deficiency could promote oxidative stress and deplete anti‐oxidant enzymes, resulting in the progression of cardiac diseases. Supported in part by NIH ES017781.

Grant Funding Source: NIH ES017781
Pancreatic damage in obese mice with liver steatosis: effects of Ω 3 fatty acid (909.1)
Authors: Likhitsup Alisa , Herndon Betty , Nachnani Jagdish , Alba Laura , Quinn Tim , Torres‐Romero Luis , Molteni Agostino
Published: June 2021

Fatty liver disease (FLD) correlates with obesity and insulin resistance. The OB/OB leptin knock out mouse is used here to evaluate FLD, effects on the pancreas and the response to Ω 3 fatty acid (Ω3FA) treatment. The receptor for Ω3FA (Ω3FA‐r) stimulates incretin which reduces inflammation, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. However, the Ω3FA‐r has 2 isoforms, only one with activity. Our pilot studies showed elevated blood glucose in OB/OB mice following Ω3FA. Does this suggest an inactive receptor isoform in our model? Is it related to FLD or to pancreatic changes? OB/OB mice (10/group) were fed a standard or Ω3FA supplemented diet. Liver and pancreas were evaluated. Liver: Fat replaced about 70% of the parenchyma. Many hepatocytes contained pyknotic nuclei. Portal triads and biliary ducts were inflamed. Pancreas: Acinar structure disruption, necrosis, vasculitis and ductal inflammation were seen in the exocrine pancreas and peripancreatic fat but not in the endocrine pancreas. Blood glucose was significantly elevated in the Ω3 FA group vs untreated (p=0.046). Ω3 FA decreased hepatic steatosis and inflammation, but did not reduce inflammation in the exocrine pancreas. Ω3 FA was further associated with some severe hyperglycemia in this model. The two different activities of Ω3 FA in the leptin k/o mice livers vs pancreas suggests the need for study of the Ω3FA‐r and its isoforms as they relate to the two tissues.

Grant Funding Source: Funding: Saint Luke’s Hospital Foundation grant to LA
Maternal‐fetal cholesterol transport in the second half of pregnancy does not involve LRP2 (910.2)
Authors: Zwier Mathijs , Baardman Maria , Jurdzinski Angelika , Bloks Vincent , van Dijk Theo , Groen Albert , Plösch Torsten
Published: June 2021

Cholesterol is of crucial importance during fetal development and relies on both maternal transport and fetal synthesis. During gestation, Lipoprotein related receptor protein type 2 (Megalin or LRP2) is expressed in both yolk sac and placenta, suggesting a possible role in maternal‐fetal cholesterol transport. Although lipoproteins have been identified as potential LRP2 ligands, the contributing effect of LRP2 on maternal‐fetal cholesterol transport and fetal cholesterol levels in utero have not been adequately addressed.

Using stable isotope techniques we quantified maternal‐fetal cholesterol transport in Lrp2 ‐/‐ and WT fetal mice during gestation. Additionally, we administered probucol to half of the dams to reduce maternal cholesterol availability.

We found no difference in maternal‐fetal cholesterol transport or synthesis between Lrp2 ‐/‐ and WT littermates, suggesting that LRP2 is not quantitatively involved in maternal‐fetal cholesterol transport.

Probucol supplementation lead to a large reduction in maternal plasma cholesterol and was associated with a 50% reduction of maternally derived cholesterol in the fetus, while overall cholesterol levels were unchanged. These results support that the mouse fetus can compensate for decreased maternal cholesterol levels by increasing cholesterol synthesis in utero.
Diet‐induced obesity compromises lactation through zinc‐mediated ER stress and autophagy, promoting premature involution (910.4)
Authors: Hennigar Stephen , Velasquez Vanessa , Kelleher Shannon
Published: June 2021

Overweight/obese mothers are less likely to initiate and maintain lactation; however, the biological mechanisms are not understood. During normal involution, the proinflammatory cytokine TNFα stimulates the redistribution of the zinc (Zn) transporter ZnT2 to lysosomes to activate autophagic cell death. Thus, we hypothesized that obesity‐associated inflammation compromises lactation by redistributing subcellular Zn pools and promoting premature involution. Female DBA/J2 mice were fed a high fat diet (HFD; 45% kcal fat) until they were >20% heavier than mice fed a control diet (CD; 10% kcal fat). Mice were mated and fed their diets until lactation day 5. 77% of HFD mice failed to nurse their pups to day 5 (CD, 39%; p<0.001). Lactating HFD mice had 55% more macrophages (p<0.001) and elevated TNFα expression (p<0.05) in the mammary gland compared with CD mice. HFD mice had greater ZnT2 abundance in lysosomes, a 41% increase in acid phosphatase activity (p<0.05) and greater LC3‐II expression. HFD mice had decreased expression of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Zn exporter ZIP7 and increased ER Zn (p<0.05) and BiP expression (p<0.05). Importantly, HFD mice had significantly higher pStat3 expression (p<0.05). Our results suggest inflammation compromises lactation by mediating Zn retention in the ER and lysosomes, activating ER stress and autophagy and promoting premature involution.

Grant Funding Source: NIH grants
In utero manipulation of melatonin significantly alters hippocampal gene expression and behavior in adulthood (910.8)
Authors: Page Kathleen , Uehara Anna , Ripple Joshua
Published: June 2021

Recent studies indicate that disturbances in melatonin—the neurohormone that signals darkness—have been implicated in the etiology and pathophysiology of various mental disturbances in humans. Research on developmental outcomes for fetuses of mothers receiving melatonin supplementation or drugs that reduce melatonin signaling during pregnancy is lacking. We hypothesized that administration of melatonin (5 mg/kg) or the melatonin receptor antagonist luzindole (5 mg/kg) to pregnant Sprague‐Dawley dams during days 14‐18 of gestation would elicit long‐term changes in hippocampal gene expression and behavior in adult offspring. Our results show that prenatal exposure to luzindol significantly alters adult male rat behavior in the open field test. Although treatment did not have a significant impact on time spent in the center of the arena, significant effects were observed for total distance traveled [increased; P=0.014], time inactive [increased; P=0.010], time rearing [decreased; P=0.020], time grooming [increased; P=0.007], and number of fecal boli produced [increased; P=0.022] compared to control offspring. RT‐PCR analysis of adult hippocampal gene expression revealed a significant increase in brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression with a trend toward increased expression of melatonin 1A receptors (MEL1A) in melatonin‐exposed animals compared to controls. Moreover, prenatal treatment increased expression of microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2), a dendritic marker, in luzindole‐treated animals compared to controls. A significant expression change was also detected in the expresson of muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor translocator (BMAL‐1), a clock‐gene regulator, in both the melatonin‐ as well as the luzindole‐treated offspring. These data support our hypothesis that manipulation of maternal melatonin level alters brain development and leads to physiological and behavioral perturbations in adulthood.
Changes in gene expression profiles in chronic kidney disease patients treated with tetrahydrobiopterin versus placebo: a randomized controlled trial (912.11)
Authors: Park Jeanie , Deveaux Don , Gibson Greg , Jefferson Melanie , Quyyumi Arshed
Published: June 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are at significantly higher risk of cardiovascular mortality. One major contributing factor is decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, which leads to endothelial dysfunction and sympathetic nervous system (SNS) overactivity. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) is a cofactor for endothelial NO synthase activity that has been shown to improve NO bioavailability and endothelial function in animal models of CKD; however, BH4 treatment had never before been tested in humans with CKD. We hypothesized that BH4 treatment alters gene expression profiles in CKD; particularly, the RNA activity of genes involved in the regulation of NO and SNS activity. In a randomized, double‐masked, placebo‐controlled trial, we randomized 36 hypertensive CKD patients to 12 weeks of: a) BH4 200 mg twice daily + folic acid 1 mg daily; versus b) identical placebo twice daily + folic acid 1 mg daily. Physiologic measures and blood collected in tempus tubes were obtained before and after treatment. Total RNA will be extracted, and gene expression profiling will be performed using the Illumina HT12 BeadChip technology at the Emory Integrative Genomics Core laboratory. We anticipate that expression of candidate genes involved in NO and SNS regulation may be altered with time in CKD patients treated with BH4.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by K grant HL098744
The shrinking arterial genome: role of double strand DNA breaks in age‐related DNA deletion (912.9)
Authors: Morgan Richard , Ives Stephen , Cawthon Richard , Andtbacka Robert , Noyes Dirk , Lesniewski Lisa , Richardson Russell , Donato Anthony
Published: June 2021

Age‐related genomic instability and subsequent cellular dysfunction may be important processes underlying arterial aging. To assess the novel role of double strand DNA break (DSB)‐mediated DNA deletion in arterial aging, we compared genomic DSB load (gDSB; phosphorylated ser 139 histone H2A.X localized to ALUs: ChIP), genomic ALU content (gALU; proxy for genome size: qPCR), and tumor suppressor protein p53 (P53)/bcl‐2‐associated X protein (BAX)‐dependent apoptotic signaling (P53 bound to BAX gene promoter: ChIP) in arteries from 104 younger (<40y), middle‐aged (41‐60y), and older adults (>61y). gDSB was ~120% greater in arteries from older adults compared with younger adults (P = 0.03). gALU was ~40% lower in arteries from middle‐aged and older adults compared with younger adults (all P < 0.01), which indicates DNA deletion and reduced genome size. Subjects in the highest tertile of gDSB had ~30% lower gALU than those in the lowest tertile (P = 0.03, r = ‐0.17). There was ~260% greater P53/BAX‐dependent apoptotic signaling in arteries from older adults compared with younger adults (all P = 0.03), which could lead to transient reductions in mean genome size via apoptotic DNA fragmentation. Apoptotic signaling was correlated with gDSB (r = 0.34, P < 0.01), but not gALU (r = 0.17, P = 0.08). These findings demonstrate that age‐related reductions in arterial genome size are linked to greater genomic DSB load.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by National Institute of Aging‐AG040297, AG029337, AG033196, AG033755
Tyre for congenital hip dislocation (913.12)
Authors: Karabekova R. , Lozovoy V. , Lozovaya E. , Hamitov M.
Published: June 2021

Current data on congenital dislocation of the hip show that despite the large number of original articles and monographs dealing with this issue, the problem of early treatment of this disease continues to be one of the important in pediatric orthopedics .

We have a tire that can be used for early functional treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip and prevention of avascular necrosis of the femoral head (Innovative patent number 27257). The purpose of the invention ‐ to ensure optimal fixation tires on the thigh or lower leg abduction dosed lower limb. This is achieved in that the tire for the treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip, strut designed as a sliding sleeve , and with the stopper rod is provided with a damping spring which is connected with the working ends of the sliding rods. Tires are manufactured in three sizes for lower leg. Children from 3‐4 months used tires small size, children from 4 months to 1 year ‐ mid‐size tires. Structural feature of the tire‐namely, the establishment of shock‐absorbing springs damping between two sliding rods provide good results of treatment as prevention is avascular necrosis of the femoral head through improved functionality.

The tire we used in 20 patients in the conservative treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip, in 2 children with aseptic necrosis of the femoral head. No complications were observed.
Internal anatomy of the infra‐renal inferior vena cava (913.7)
Authors: Bubb Kathleen , du Plessis Maira , Loukas Marios , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: June 2021

Despite descriptions of the inferior vena cava spanning over several centuries, little data regarding its internal structure is available. A lack of consensus and paucity of scientific data describing the tributaries of the infra‐renal segment specifically related to their ostia warrants further study. Tributaries such as the renal and adrenal have been studied extensively however the smaller tributaries have not been given as much attention. Given that accurate knowledge of the anatomy of these veins is necessary for improvement during surgical interventions in the retroperitoneum we feel that a comprehensive study of the internal anatomy of the Inferior Vena Cava is necessary. Dissection of the posterior abdominal wall was performed on formalin fixed cadavers. A midline incision was made in the anterior wall and location and orientation of the tributaries and their ostia were observed. Ostia size (vertical and horizontal diameters) and position as well as valve presence and morphology were noted. The majority of tributaries had ostia located at the posterior and left aspect; most of these entered obliquely and had valves containing one or two leaflets. Valves were also noted in a right renal vein independent of it receiving a gonadal tributary. The study indicates that previous reports claiming valveless tributaries are inaccurate and needs reevaluation on a larger scale.
Anatomy of the fetlock in goats and sheep: comparison of sonography and macroscopic anatomy (914.2)
Authors: Hirtler Arno , Kofler Johann
Published: June 2021

Sonography is an important tool for diagnosing diseases of the locomotor system. It helps to evaluate tendons, ligaments, joint capsules and any free fluid. The aim of this study was to describe the anatomy of the fetlock region in sheep and goats based on sonographic pictures. During the first phase, sonographic examination was conducted on the fetlock of six sheep cadavers and compared to frozen feet sections. In the case of eight feet, the joint pouches were experimentally filled. During the second phase, the same examination was conducted on ten living sheep and eight goats. Clear differentiation of the joint space, the capsule, the articular cartilage, the extensor tendons, the flexor tendons and the interosseus medius muscle was possible. Several anatomical structures were compared to each other. No significant differences were observed between the right and left and between the front and back extremities. Differences between sheep and goats could neither be neglected nor demonstrated. In the case of goats, a correlation between the age of the animals and the size of the structures could not be proven. It was shown that a minimum filling of 3 ml was necessary for imaging a distended fetlock joint cavity. The clear differentiation of the soft tissue structures by ultrasonography is a valuable tool for the examination of the fetlock joint. However, more studies are necessary for demonstrating any pathological aspects.
Accurate morphology of the semispinalis capitis muscle (915.13)
Authors: Bee Mary , Mehrabi Negar , Albrecht Emily , Michalak Samantha , Grabowski Greg , Montante James
Published: June 2021

The semispinalis capitis muscle is found in the posterior neck. The majority of anatomy textbooks and atlases depict this muscle as containing two bellies of muscle with a linear intervening white tendinous band that neatly separates the muscle into upper and lower parts. We dissected the posterior neck and upper back of sixteen cadavers to isolate this muscle and gain better clarification of this muscle’s appearance. Instead of what is commonly depicted in most anatomy books, we found that its intervening tendon is not linear. The tendon consists of multiple distinct parts that are commonly disconnected and lie either superior or inferior to each other.
Anatomic localization of nerve entry points in the gluteus maximus muscle: preliminary results (915.7)
Authors: Yendo Tatiana , Itezerote Ana , Jacomo Alfredo , Akamatsu Flavia
Published: June 2021

The knowledge of the anatomic localization of the gluteus maximus muscle nerve entry points, where the nerve branch first pierced the muscle belly, will help understanding the physiopathology and treatments in both clinical and surgical contexts, such as myofascial pain syndrome and relation to myofascial trigger points, treatment of chronic pain and surgical approaches to the hip.

We dissected fourteen gluteus maximus muscles from 7 cadavers and the nerve entry points of these muscles were determined. We divided the gluteus maximus muscle in 4 quadrants based on two reference lines: the x‐coordinated line is a transversal line passing by the coccyx, and the y‐coordinated line is perpendicular to the first line, passing by its mid‐point. The quadrant (A) is superior to the x‐coordinate and medial to the y‐coordinate; (B) is superior to the x‐coordinate and lateral to the y‐coordinate; (C) is inferior to the x‐coordinate and medial to the y‐coordinate; and (D) is inferior to the x‐coordinate and lateral to the y‐coordinate.

We found 12 nerve entry points in in position (A), 11 in position (B), 14 in position (C) and 20 in position (D). The medium number of nerve entry points per gluteus maximus muscle was 4.6 (maximum 7 and minimum 2).

The parameters provided in this preliminary study may contribute to avoid iatrogenic lesions in surgical approaches and to understand and improve the treatments to myofascial pain syndrome.
Factor VIII‐related antigen detects transformation of liver sinusoidal to vascular endothelium in hepatic fibrosis of elderly cadavers (916.2)
Authors: Mak Ki , Sehgal Priya
Published: June 2021

Morphological transformation of liver sinusoidal endothelium (SE) to vascular endothelium (VE) is a significant histopathological lesion associated with severe liver fibrosis. In the process, the SE expresses a VE phenotypic marker FVIIIRAg. Because liver fibrosis is inherent to human aging and is also prevalent in elderly cadavers, this study examined FVIIIRAg expression in the aged liver of cadavers. Immunohistochemically staining revealed that the VE of portal tracts and central veins stained uniformly for FVIIIRAg, providing an internal positive control. The incidence of FVIIIRAg expression in SE was low in livers with minimal fibrosis or perisinusoidal fibrosis, but was increased in livers with advanced septal fibrosis and cirrhosis. FVIIIRAg positive endothelial cells occurred in loose aggregates or singly in the periportal, periseptal, mid‐lobular and centrilobular areas, as well as in foci of the parenchyma showing severe fibrotic change. The immune deposits of FVIIIRAg were patchy and discontinuous along the sinusoidal lining, probably representing focal transformation of SE to VE. Thus, FVIIIRAg detects transformation of SE to VE phenotype in advanced liver fibrosis of aged cadavers. Formation of VE may impair the exchange of materials between the sinusoidal blood and liver parenchyma, causing hepatic dysfunction and disease susceptibility associated with fibrosis in the aging liver.
The opening and closing mechanism of the spiracle in the spiny dogfish shark, Squalus acanthias (918.20)
Authors: Paulk Kyle , McFerren Scott , Homberger Dominique
Published: June 2021

Benthic sharks ventilate their gills by using a dual pump mechanism. They take water in by sequentially opening their spiracle and mouth, and expel water through their gills by closing their mouth and spiracle and compressing their oropharyngeal cavity (Hughes 1960). However, the mechanism of opening and closing the spiracle and the possible role of the pseudobranch are not fully understood. Therefore, we analyzed the functional morphology of the spiracle in a Spiny Dogfish Shark by micro‐dissection and digital imaging. The immovable edges of the spiracle are held in place by radially arranged subcutaneous collagen fibers. The spiracle is opened and closed by the spiracular flap, which is formed by the underlying spiracular muscle. In the closed spiracle, the spiracular flap and muscle are contracted, wide, and flat. When the chondrocranium is raised to open the mouth, the spiracular flap and muscle are stretched, elongated, and narrowed to open the spiracle and break the watertight seal within the oropharyngeal cavity. The spiracle closes when the mouth is closed by the contraction of the levator palatoquadrati, rostral levator hyomandibulae and spiracular muscles. The pseudobranch serves as a hydraulic cushion that ensures a watertight seal in the closed spiracle.

Grant Funding Source: Supported by LSU Foundation to DGH
Developmental changes in cross‐sectional geometry of the mandibular corpus (918.23)
Authors: Fojas Christina
Published: June 2021

The role of mechanical stressors created by the human masticatory apparatus has been a focus of interest, particularly with regard to ontogenetic changes as they relate to functional adaptations. The mandible can be modeled as a hollow asymmetric beam to approximate cross‐sectional geometric properties. This research seeks to investigate the functional morphology of the mandibular corpus as it undergoes changes throughout ontogeny. The aim of this study is to examine whether mandibular corpus bone mass and distribution patterns represent a functional adaptation to an adult form of masticatory loading. Prior studies support the notion that mandibular strength reaches near‐adult values by early adolescence, with mandibular strength tied to the emergence of permanent molars. This study utilizes protohistoric archaeological human juvenile mandibles aged 1‐18 years from South Dakota. Biplanar radiographs and external measurements were taken to reconstruct cross‐sectional strength and rigidity as calculated by the polar moment of area (J), and second moments of area (I) and section moduli (Z) along the sagittal and transverse planes. Results indicate a gradual increase in sagittal bending rigidity and strength with increased age. These findings suggest that changes in cross‐sectional properties and cortical bone distributions are due to a shift in masticatory demands.
Comparative analysis on the frequencies and mortality rates of muscle, fascia, and sinus locations on trephined crania in ancient Peru (918.3)
Authors: Bilal Alina , Jelaca‐Tavakoli Maria
Published: June 2021

In this study, 50 trephinations on 41 Peruvian crania (22 females, 19 males) are analyzed with respect to their cranial location and evidence of healing or lack thereof. The study focuses on three muscle (temporalis (TM), occipitalis (OM), and frontalis (FM) muscles), one fascia (galea aponeurotica (GA)), and two sinus (superior sagittal sinus (SSS) and frontal sinus (FS)) locations for the purpose of evaluating the overall and sex‐specific frequencies and mortality rates at each location in the sample. Overall, the location with the greatest frequency of trephination in the sample is the GA with 82% (22 females, 19 males) while the location with the lowest frequency is the OM with 10% (1 female, 4 males). The location with the highest mortality rate is the TM (38%) while the FS had the lowest mortality rate (14%). In regards to the differential frequency among the sexes, only the SSS and GA locations occur slightly more in females than males with frequencies of 66% and 54%, respectively. Females and males exhibit a mortality rate of 38% and 8%, respectively, making females the sex with the higher mortality rate. Based on this analysis, trephination is most likely to occur across the GA. The TM is the location with the highest mortality rate, regardless of sex.
External ear anthropometry: the search for sexual dimorphism and correlations among Nigerians (918.6)
Authors: Taura Magaji
Published: June 2021

External ear anthropometry; the search for sexual dimorphism and correlations among Nigerians M. G. Taura1, L. H. Adamu, M. H. Modibbo Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Bayero Univeristy, Kano Nigeria 1Corresponding author: Dr. M.G. Taura, e‐mail: mgtaura.ana@buk.edu.ng +234 (0) 8063790273

Abstract There is always need for anthropometric data for a given population especially the need for identification as well as designing products suitable for utility by the population. The aim of the study was to determine the level of sexual dimorphism in ear length, ear width and ear index for both left and right sides of the body. The correlation between the ear variables was also determined. The study population consisted of 137 males and 82 females recruited among Bayero University students participated in the study. Direct method using vanier caliper was employed in measurement of ear dimensions. The result shows that mean value of ear dimensions is higher on the right side in the all variables considered. Significant differences were also observed in ear length and ear width of the right side (P < 0.05) and the width and index show a significant difference (P < 0.05) on the left side of the body. Correlation between the variables shows a negative correlation between ear length and ear index. In conclusion, the present study has established the existence of sexual dimorphism in the ear linear dimensions among Nigerian population. Therefore, the use of ear dimension in anthropometry for characterization of the differences in sex was highlighted in the study.

Key words: External ear, morphometry, Nigeria, Sexual dimorphism

Grant Funding Source: Bayero University Kano
Hip center edge angle and alpha angle correlate with gait variables in femoroacetabular impingement morphology (919.11)
Authors: Farkas Gary , Haro Marc , Lee Simon , Espinoza Orias Alejandro , Nho Shane
Published: June 2021

Gait deviations have been observed in symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and other disorders of hip morphology1‐2. However the nature of the relationship between hip morphology and gait is still unclear. We hypothesize that when FAI is diagnosed via the alpha or center edge angles, significant associations with kinematic and kinetic gait variables will be present. This IRB approved study recruited 20 preoperative patients scheduled for FAI hip arthroscopy. Subjects with back or lower extremity pathologies were excluded. Gait testing was performed using published methods3. Radiographs measured by a single observer were compared to range of motion and peak external moments (%body weight x height) about the surgical side hip and knee. Significant correlations were found between the center edge angle and minimum knee flexion angle (R=0.460, p=0.041) as well as peak external knee extension moment (R=0.547, p=0.013). Alpha angle significantly correlated with peak external hip extension moment (R=0.447, p=0.048). A moderate correlation was found between the alpha angle and minimum hip flexion angle (R=0.414, p=0.069) and the center edge angle and peak external hip flexion moment (R=‐0.399, p=0.081).The relationships seen with this preliminary data are encouraging and support the association between hip morphological abnormalities and gait variables.

1.

Hunt MA, Gunether JR, Gilbart MK. Kinematic and kinetic differences during walking in patients with and without symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement. Clin Biom. 2013: 28(5): 519‐523.

2.

Rylander JH, Shu B, Favre J, et al. Functional testing provides unique insights into the pathomechanics of femoroacetabular impingement and an objective basis for evaluating treatment outcome. J Ortho Research. 2013: 31(9): 1461‐1468.

3.

Andriacchi TP, Natarajan RN, Hurwitz DE. Musculoskeletal dynamic locomotion and clinical applications. Mow VC, Huiskes R. Basic Ortho. Biom and MechanoBiology. 3 Ed. PA: Lippincott; 2005. 91‐121.

Grant Funding Source: Sponsored by the American Association of Anatomists/Anatomy and Rush University Medical Center
Effects of the curvature of the lumbar spine on the posture of male and female horse riders: a biomechanical analysis (919.15)
Authors: Osborn Michelle , Cornille Jean Luc , Uhl Elizabeth
Published: June 2021

Classical equitation currently has a strong female following, but historically was a male endeavor. Thus, ideas about riding postures are based on traditions established by and for men. Previous research on the anatomic differences between the sexes and how they affect riding has primarily focused on the pelvis. Recently, sexual dimorphism in the shapes of the lumbar vertebrae that result in a deeper curvature of the lumbar region of the female spine was identified. We hypothesized that, due to this increased curvature, the vertical force from the horse would impact the lumbar spine of the female differently from that of the male, and could explain the higher incidence of lower back pain reported in female riders. We tested our hypothesis with the method of free‐body diagram force analysis. Based on the initial assumption of bilateral symmetry in the rider and horse, our analysis reveals that in males with a classical riding posture the vertical force from the horse is directed toward the bodies of the lumbar vertebrae and intervertebral discs. In women this force is directed more posteriorly toward the spinous processes, an area not as well‐suited for force distribution. A better understanding of the functional consequences associated with the anatomical differences between the sexes allows riders and trainers to adapt their technique and thus decrease pain and tissue injury.
Anatomical study of distal ulna and correlation with the etiology of wrist pain and gender (919.17)
Authors: Barros Mirna , Costa Antonio , Vuono Luciana Vuono , Chakkour Ivan
Published: June 2021

Objective: A frequent complain in orthopedic clinic is an unspecific pain in the wrist, that can have or not relation whit history of trauma. We could observe, during these evaluations that radiologic study of these wrist have demonstrate a variation in ulna distal morphology. The present study was done to evaluate the variations in morphology of the distal ulna extremity, and observe de relationship whit the variants gender and etiology. Methods: This evaluation was done in two phases, initially with the evaluation of ulna curvature obtained from cadaveric, and in a second phase with study of radiography obtained in orthopedic ambulatorial assessment. We imported the radiographs to Auto Cad® 2006, and draw a longitudinal line, tangent to medial border of diafise, and another one transversal to ulna head. We divided this line in three, and analyzed in which third the longitudinal line crossed it. The results of this second phase were correlated to the variants sex and etiology, demonstrating statistics significance with gender (p = 0.0062), but no statistics significance with etiology (p = 0.1602). Conclusion: Thedistal ulna presents a variable curvature that has demonstrated relationship whit sex.
Deconstructing the dogma of fore and hindlimb serial homology: evidence from regenerative, developmental, comparative, paleontological and evolutionary studies (919.3)
Authors: Diogo Rui , Ziermann Janine , Johnston Peter
Published: June 2021

Most textbooks and papers state that the structures of the tetrapod fore‐ and hindlimb are serial homologues. We provide an updated discussion of this subject based on a literature review and on our regenerative studies of axolotls, developmental studies of tetrapods, and comparative and evolutionary studies of all major vertebrate groups, including recent re‐analyses of the appendicular muscles of chondrichthyans, dipnoans and coelacanths. The integrative analysis of the data available strongly supports the idea that the similarity of muscles and bones of the fore and hindlimbs of tetrapods such as salamanders and modern humans is not due to serial homology, but is instead the result of independent evolutionary changes (homoplasy) due to a complex interplay between developmental, functional, topological and phylogenetic constraints. It also offers new insights about the ancestral Bauplan and morphogenetic gradients of tetrapod limbs, including the striking similarity of the zeugopodial (forearm/leg) and autopodial (hand/foot) muscles of the two limbs and ventro‐dorsal symmetry of the zeugopodial muscles of a same limb, about the marked differences between pelvic and pectoral girdle structures, about homeotic transformations related to the number/identity of the digits and associated soft tissue changes, about limb birth defects, and about the differences between limb ontogeny and regeneration.

Grant Funding Source: Faculty Start‐Up Package, Howard University College of Medicine
Is evolutionary biology becoming too politically correct? A reflection on the scala naturae, phylogenetically basal clades, anatomically plesiomorphic taxa, and “lower” animals (919.4)
Authors: Diogo Rui , Ziermann Janine , Linde‐Medina Marta
Published: June 2021

The notion of scala naturae dates back to thinkers such as Aristotle, who ranked animals along a graded scale of complexity from “lower” to “higher” animals, such as humans. In the last decades, evolutionary biologists have tended to move from this extreme to the opposite extreme, i.e. to avoid using terms such as “phylogenetically basal” and “anatomically plesiomorphic” taxa, which are seen as “politically incorrect” vestiges of old teleological theories. Recently there has been a renewed interest on these topics, but most discussions on the scala naturae and related issues continue to be based on hard tissue and molecular data. Here we provide the first discussion of these topics based on empirical data obtained from comparative, developmental and phylogenetic myological studies of all the major vertebrate clades, including primates. We specifically 1) contradict the notions of a scala naturae or evolutionary progressive trends leading to more complexity and culminating in Homo sapiens; and 2) stress that the refutation of these old notions does necessarily not mean that one should not keep using the terms “phylogenetically basal” and particularly “anatomically plesiomorphic” to refer to groups such as the urodeles within the Tetrapoda, or the strepsirrhines and lemurs within the Primates, for instance.

Grant Funding Source: Faculty Start‐Up Package, Howard University College of Medicine
Parallelism between ontogeny and phylogeny ő a case study in amphibians (921.10)
Authors: Ziermann Janine , Diogo Rui
Published: June 2021

Ernst Haeckel’s idea of “ontogeny is a fast recapitulation of adult phylogenetic stages” was discussed extensively since its publication in 1866 and has been refuted. Authors such as Stephen Jay Gould have re‐defined a theory that stresses that there is a parallelism between ontogeny and phylogeny, but no ontogenetic recapitulation of ancestral adult stages. To test this theory, we studied amphibian cranial muscle development by undertaking dissections, using whole‐mount antibody staining, and doing serial sectioning. The order in which muscles appear during amphibian ontogeny was analyzed with Parsimov. We found 1) general patterns in cranial muscle development, e.g. the differentiation of muscles from anterior to posterior, from lateral to medial, and from origin to insertion; 2) that there is effectively a similarity between the order in which muscles appear in ontogeny and in phylogeny; 3) that there are some heterochronic events but these events cannot be related to a particular lifestyle; and 4) that contrary to the commonly accepted view that ontogeny tends to lead to the differentiation of new muscles, several amphibian larval cranial muscles actually become indistinct during metamorphosis. This latter point can lead to confusion about the homology of several cranial muscles in salamanders, frogs and other vertebrates, which should be resolved in order to understand vertebrate evolutionary history.

Grant Funding Source: Faculty Start‐Up Package, Howard University College of Medicine
Subnasale to gnathion distance and nasal index of children with homozygous sickle cell disease in Port Harcourt, Nigeria (922.1)
Authors: Ligha Aloysius , Fawehinmi Hakeem
Published: June 2021

Aim: This study is designed to determine changes in some of craniofacial parameters such as subnasale to gnathion distance and nasal index in sickle cell anaemia in comparison to the healthy children in Port‐Harcourt.

Method: In this research which span over a two year period, measurements were taken of the facial indices (nasal and the subnasale to gnathion distances) of 100 confirmed homozygous (SS) children who attended the Sickle cell clinic of the University of Port Harcourt teaching Hospital and 500 normal growing children, drawn from the University of Port Harcourt Day Care Centre and Demonstration Nursery, Primary and Secondary Schools.

Result: Results from the study showed that mean values for nasal index were lower, though, not statistically significant, showing tendency towards more platyrrhine noses which is most prominent between ages 2‐5 years when skull growth is at its peak. Mean values of subnasale to gnathion distance were higher but also not statistically significant among age groups for sickle cell anaemia.

Conclusion: These features were put forward to explain the possible facial dysmorphology associated with the long term effect of haemolytic anaemia at the different stages of postnatal skull growth.

Key words: Normal growth, Sickle cell disease, subnasale to gnathion distance, nasal index.
Cissus quadrangularis has anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties: in vitro and in vivo studies (922.15)
Authors: Navarro Jorge , Espinosa Joanna , Das Kishore , Faraji Bahram , Innis‐Whitehouse Wendy , Wei Sun‐Gen , Banu Jameela
Published: June 2021

Oxidative stress in cells increases the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing cellular damage and inflammation, leading to apoptosis of cells. It plays a major role in different diseases including obesity and diabetes. One of the complications that results from obesity and diabetes is osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones fragile and increases the risk of fractures. ROS inhibits osteoblast differentiation, decreasing bone formation leading to bone loss. Cissus quadrangularis (CQ), a herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, has bone protective properties and is reported to decrease oxidative damages induced by obesity. We used mouse osteoblastic cells (MC3T3) to determine the anti‐oxidative effects of CQ. The cells were assessed for ROS production after determining the optimal concentration and time period of treatment with CQ. Increased ROS production can cause inflammation and activate the apoptotic pathway leading to cell death. We also completed an in vivo study using rats and measured the pro‐inflammatory cytokines in the serum after 4 months of feeding diet containing CQ. Results demonstrate significant inhibition of ROS and caspase 12 in CQ treated cells. We also found that caspase 12 levels are decreased in the presence of CQ. In vivo results showed decreased levels of IL‐1α and IL‐6 in the serum. These results suggest that CQ can protect bone as an anti‐oxidatant and anti‐inflammatory agent.

Grant Funding Source: Undergraduate research Inititiative, NSF ADVANCE
Covalent attachment of antibiotics to bone allograft (922.19)
Authors: Swisher Nickolas , Adams Christopher , Dattilo Victoria , Saunders Ray
Published: June 2021

Peri‐prosthetic infection (PPI) poses a serious threat to the continued health of any patients implanted with foreign material. Tethering anti‐microbials to the surface of implanted materials for the prevention of PPI might ultimately prove to be the safest and most cost‐effective strategy. PPIs can be the result of infection by either gram‐positive bacteria (GPB) or gram‐negative bacteria (GNB), or both. Thus, broad spectrum coverage will be ultimately required. Previous work has shown the efficacy of anti‐microbial tethered surfaces. This study sought to show that antibiotics effective against both GPB and GNB could be tethered in combination to morselized bone. Vancomycin (Vanc) and tetracycline (Tet) were covalently bound to demineralized, morselized rat bone. Immunohistochemistry showed that both antibiotics were attached to allograft individually as well as in combination. To test the hypothesis that covalently attached Vanc and Tet will prevent bacterial colonization by either type of bacteria, surfaces were challenged by both S. aureus and E. coli. The antibacterial properties and efficacy were determined using confocal microscopy and colony counting. Vanc tethered bone prevented colonization by S. aureus, and Tet tethered bone prevented colonization by E. coli. A combination of both antibiotics prevented colonization by both species. These results indicate that covalent attachment of combinations of broad spectrum antibiotics to bone allograft could potentially prevent PPIs.
A study of the mandibular incisive nerve and possible causes of altered sensation following maxillofacial surgery (922.5)
Authors: Ivey Danielle , Wilson Tim , Merrifield Peter , Shimizu Michael , Galil Khadry
Published: June 2021

The mandibular interforaminal region is considered a safe zone for cortical bone graft harvesting. Incidence of sensory disturbance of the anterior dentition is reported following harvest at the mandibular symphysis. Anatomical understanding of the incisive nerve within the bony mandible is required to prevent nerve injury. Our study of the anatomy of the incisive nerve, its variation, and position within the mandible will provide a comprehensive map for surgeons. Thirty‐eight cadaveric mandibles will be dissected to reveal the incisive nerve within the mandibular symphysis. The nerve formation will be categorized as: Type A (trunk with branches to anterior teeth), B (a disorganized plexus), or C (nearby nerve contribution). Categorical prevalence will be compared in dentate and edentulous mandibles. A subset of mandibles will be sagittally sectioned between the mental foramina to show the incisive nerve relative to the inferior border of the mandible. Preliminary results of 11 dissected dentate mandibles reveal a prevalence of the ‘Type A’ formation between the mental foramina (8/11). Two dentate mandibles have shown ‘Type B’ formation. Dissected edentulous mandibles reveal a prevalence of ‘Type A’ formation (3/3). Elucidation of anatomical formation, variation, and position of the incisive nerve will help decrease the morbidity of incisive nerve damage and provide a better long‐term outcome for patients.