Identifying sex-specific injury predictors as a key factor in maintaining optimal physical activity levels

BACKGROUND

Optimal physical activity is known to reduce cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine system diseases and, as a consequence, improve quality of life. An important risk factor for reinjuries during normal exercise is the initial connective tissue pathology. The variety of clinical dysplastic manifestations significantly complicate the timely diagnosis of this comorbidity.

AIM

To establish pathognomonic sex-specific dysplasia phenotypes that indicate a particular sensitivity to physical exertion.

METHODS

The study involved 117 participants with recurrent musculoskeletal injuries that occurred during normal exercise. There were 67 women (57.26%) and 50 men (42.74%), which made it possible to compare the presence of the identified signs between sexes. A validated questionnaire was used to screen their connective tissue status.

RESULTS

Ranking the most commonly revealed dysplasia signs depending on their clinical significance made it possible to establish pathognomonic sex-specific phenotypes that indicated a particular susceptibility to injuries. Individualized programs of optimal physical activity are necessary for men with chest deformities, flat-valgus feet, dolichostenomelia, arachnodactylia, hemorrhoids, abdominal muscle diastasis and recurrent hernias. In women, special sensitivity to physical exertion was associated with a combination of signs such as asthenic body, joint hypermobility, overly soft auricles, thin hyperelastic skin, atrophic striae, telangiectasias and varicose veins. Of particular importance were universal signs such as gothic palate, scoliosis, kyphosis, leg deformities, temporomandibular joint crunching, and moderate to high myopia.

CONCLUSION

Participants’ connective tissue condition should be considered when designing optimal physical activity programs. Identifying the established sex-specific dysplasia phenotypes will allow timely optimization of training loads, thus reducing the risk of injury.

Current drug targets for gut microbiota biocorrection during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a systematic review

The gut microbiota are known to play an important role in maintaining the body homeostasis and increasing its immunoresistance. It's role has not been well defined in the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pathogenetic relationship between gut microbiota, immunological reactivity disruption and microbiota pathologies with the new coronavirus infection's course in order to substantiate the use of current drugs correcting gut microbiota during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Electronic resources of WHO Infection Control, Global Health, ScienceDirect, Elsevier, CDC infection diseases database, Google Academy, "Scientific electronic library eLIBRARY.RU", MEDLINE, CyberLeninka, Embase, PubMed-NCBI, RSCI, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were used for this analytical research.

RESULTS

The research results showed that normal gut microbiota is one of the important components of a multilevel immune defense system. The intestinal microbiota support a state of initial activation and readiness in order to provide a quick response to the invasion of pathogens, including RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. Current research suggests that the intestinal microbiota play an important role in the pathogenesis and predetermination of disease severity in COVID-19. By producing essential metabolites and neutralizing toxic substrates, symbionts regulate the functioning of all organs and systems, maintaining the body homeostasis and immunological responses. Intestinal microbiota disorders determine the postvaccination anti-COVID immunity's efficacy, specifically the susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and the severity of this infection. This is done by stimulating a local intestinal immune response via secretory immunoglobulins and the acquired immunity of the microbiome. The high prevalence of dysbiosis within the populous indicates the necessity of regular gut microbiota biocorrection during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Our systematic review of current biopreparations correcting gut microbiota provides a valuable reference to the practicing clinician to quickly navigate in a wide variety of medicines, assess their capabilities and choose the optimal treatment for patients at risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

CONCLUSION

Current data supports the notion that gut microflora biocorrection may help increase population immunity and preserve public health during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Current Understanding of Central Nervous System Drainage Systems: Implications in the Context of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Until recently, it was thought that there were no lymphatic vessels in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, all metabolic processes were assumed to take place only in the circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and through the blood-brain barrier's (BBB), which regulate ion transport and ensure the functioning of the CNS. However, recent findings yield a new perspective: There is an exchange of CSF with interstitial fluid (ISF), which is drained to the paravenous space and reaches lymphatic nodes at the end. This circulation is known as the glymphatic system. The glymphatic system is an extensive network of meningeal lymphatic vessels (MLV) in the basal area of the skull that provides another path for waste products from CNS to reach the bloodstream. MLV develop postnatally, initially appearing around the foramina in the basal part of the skull and the spinal cord, thereafter sprouting along the skull's blood vessels and spinal nerves in various areas of the meninges. VEGF-C protein (vascular endothelial growth factor), expressed mainly by vascular smooth cells, plays an important role in the development of the MLV. The regenerative potential and plasticity of MLV and the novel discoveries related to CNS drainage offer potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia, hydrocephalus, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer disease (AD). Herein, we present an overview of the structure and function of the glymphatic system and MLV, and their potential involvement in the pathology and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

The mystery of claustral neural circuits and recent updates on its role in neurodegenerative pathology

INTRODUCTION

The claustrum is a structure involved in formation of several cortical and subcortical neural microcircuits which may be involved in such functions as conscious sensations and rewarding behavior. The claustrum is regarded as a multi-modal information processing network. Pathology of the claustrum is seen in certain neurological disorders. To date, there are not enough comprehensive studies that contain accurate information regarding involvement of the claustrum in development of neurological disorders.

OBJECTIVE

Our review aims to provide an update on claustrum anatomy, ontogenesis, cytoarchitecture, neural networks and their functional relation to the incidence of neurological diseases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review was conducted using the Google Scholar, PubMed, NCBI MedLine, and eLibrary databases.

RESULTS

Despite new methods that have made it possible to study the claustrum at the molecular, genetic and epigenetic levels, its functions and connectivity are still poorly understood. The anatomical location, relatively uniform cytoarchitecture, and vast network of connections suggest a divergent role of the claustrum in integration and processing of input information and formation of coherent perceptions. Several studies have shown changes in the appearance, structure and volume of the claustrum in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), autism, schizophrenia, and depressive disorders. Taking into account the structure, ontogenesis, and functions of the claustrum, this literature review offers insight into understanding the crucial role of this structure in brain function and behavior.

Withdrawal Notice: Applying Peer Mentoring to Improve Learning Human Anatomy

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the co-authors due to the death of the corresponding author (Dr. Aliev). Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused. The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

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[Anatomical bases of brain revascularization: choosing an extra-intracranial bypass option]

Surgical brain revascularization is an important treatment for acute or chronic ischemia, intracranial aneurysms and skull base tumors. Individual anatomy of brain vessels should be clearly understood for this procedure. Variants of collateral cerebral blood flow in patients with cerebrovascular diseases depend on individual characteristics of circle of Willis and reserve mechanisms of collateral circulation. These anatomical variations require careful preoperative planning to choose the optimal revascularization option.

Paneth cells: Maintaining dynamic microbiome-host homeostasis, protecting against inflammation and cancer

The human intestines are constantly under the influence of numerous pathological factors: enteropathogenic microorganisms, food antigens, physico-chemical stress associated with digestion and bacterial metabolism, therefore it must be provided with a system of protection against adverse impact. Recent studies have shown that Paneth cells play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis of the small intestines. Paneth cells perform many vital functions aimed at maintaining a homeostatic balance between normal microbiota, infectious pathogens and the human body, regulate the qualitative composition and number of intestinal microorganisms, prevent the introduction of potentially pathogenic species, and protect stem cells from damage. Paneth cells take part in adaptive and protective-inflammatory reactions. Paneth cells maintain dynamic balance between microbial populations, and the macroorganism, preventing the development of intestinal infections and cancer. They play a crucial role in gastrointestinal homeostasis and may be key factors in the etiopathological progression of intestinal diseases.

Morphological signs of connective tissue dysplasia as predictors of frequent post-exercise musculoskeletal disorders

Background

Connective tissue dysplasia (CTD) is a risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders. Changes caused by disorganization of collagen and elastin fibers lead to the inability of withstanding heavy mechanical stress. In clinical practice, diagnosis of these disorders depends on physical and anthropomorphic evaluation.

Methods

Forty-eight patients with frequent post-exercise musculoskeletal disorders were evaluated for CTD. The control group included 36 healthy participants. Both groups were evaluated via therapeutic examination with assessment of anthropometric indicators and physical-physiological evaluation, surveying and gathering of anamnesis. Based on testing results, study participants were evaluated on CTD presence and risk factors.

Results

All experimental group patients had connective tissue dysplasia of moderate and severe degree, with a total score of 49.44 ± 13.1. Certain morphological characteristics showed prevalence, allowing to determine pathognomonic predictors of high predisposition to frequent post-exercise musculoskeletal disorders. Back pain (100%), asthenic syndrome and kyphotic spinal deformation (75%), high gothic palate, hypermobility of joints and the auricles, excessive elasticity (63%), varicose veins of the lower extremities (56%) and hemorrhoids (56%), changes in the shape of the legs and temporomandibular joint (50%) showed to be significant clinical factors indicating possible connective tissue dysplasia.

Conclusions

The presence of these diagnostically significant morphological signs of CTD in humans is a pathognomonic predictor of a high predisposition to frequent injuries. Their early detection helps promote proper appointment of adequate physical activity regimen and develop treatment for the underlying cause.

Amygdala: Neuroanatomical and Morphophysiological Features in Terms of Neurological and Neurodegenerative Diseases

The amygdala is one of the most discussed structures of the brain. Correlations between its level of activity, size, biochemical organization, and various pathologies are the subject of many studies, and can serve as a marker of existing or future disease. It is hypothesized that the amygdala is not just a structural unit, but includes many other regions in the brain. In this review, we present the updated neuroanatomical and physiological aspects of the amygdala, discussing its involvement in neurodegenerative and neurological diseases. The amygdala plays an important role in the processing of input signals and behavioral synthesis. Lesions in the amygdala have been shown to cause neurological disfunction of ranging severity. Abnormality in the amygdala leads to conditions such as depression, anxiety, autism, and also promotes biochemical and physiological imbalance. The amygdala collects pathological proteins, and this fact can be considered to play a big role in the progression and diagnosis of many degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, Lewy body diseases, and hippocampal sclerosis. The amygdala has shown to play a crucial role as a central communication system in the brain, therefore understanding its neuroanatomical and physiological features can open a channel for targeted therapy of neurodegenerative diseases.

The Posterior Perforated Substance: A Brain Mystery Wrapped in an Enigma

BACKGROUND

There is a dearth of published information on the posterior perforated substance as compared to the anterior perforated substance. We managed to glean facts about the posterior perforated substance that can serve as a landmark for surgical operations in the adjacent regions of the midbrain and the vessels passing through it. Moreover, the posterior perforated substance contains the interpeduncular nucleus responsible for the mental state of the individual.

OBJECTIVES

1) To describe the topography of the blood vessels supplying the posterior perforated substance area from the surgical point of view; 2) to investigate the functions of the interpeduncular nucleus.

METHODS

We assembled and analyzed results from source databases by Elsevier, NCBI MedLine, Scopus, Scholar. Google and Embase. Each article was studied in detail for practically useful information about the posterior perforated substance.

RESULTS

The P1-segment perforating branches of the posterior cerebral artery supply the posterior perforated substance. This area is especially vulnerable in the case of vascular pathologies. The posterior communicating artery can block the surgeon's view and impede maneuverability of the tool in the area of the posterior perforated substance, which may be addressed using the separation technique, which can lead to positive results. In addition, the medial habenula-interpeduncular nucleus in the posterior perforated substance is associated with various addictions and psychiatric conditions.

CONCLUSION

The posterior perforated substance area is of great interest for surgical interventions. Future studies of the interpeduncular nucleus anticipate the development of drugs to affect different types of dependencies and some mental diseases.

[Acute carpal tunnel syndrome regarding clinico-anatomical point of view in personified medicine]

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) requires special attention due to its different reasons and course. Knowledge about the variability of median nerve (MN) topography in carpal canal region, features of diagnosis and treatment extends outlooks on this pathology. Aggregating rare clinical cases from the Medline and Pubmed databases is useful to form personified approach. There are 3 types of topographic variations which should be considered to prevent false-positive diagnosis of pathology: recurrent branch location, early bi- and trifurcations of MN, anastomoses. Since acute CTS is treated only by surgery, every surgical approach is aimed at minimally invasiveness and fast recovery. Endoscopic decompression (ED) is more favorable regarding these aspects. However, this method cannot be considered as perfect due to available data about incomplete decompression and certain incidence of recurrences. The last ones are absent after microsurgical decompression as a rule. It can be concluded that only individual approach is advisable for complete release of CTS without iatrogenic damage and recurrences.

[Morphologic changes in mice trachea, bronchi and lungs after prolonged combined radiation and inhaled chemical exposure]

Investigations of morphology and morphometry of the breathing organs (trachea, bronchi and lungs) and immunogenesis of mice subject to a combined sequential exposure to fractionated external γ-irradiation by the total dose of 350 cGy and a mix of acetone, ethanol and acetaldehyde in MPCs for piloted spacecrafts simulating the estimated levels in crewed exploration missions were conducted. Morphologic changes in the breathing organs of animals after space missions point to immunogenesis activation and appearance of a "structural trace" as a chronic inflammation with the growth of fibrous connective tissue in tracheal, bronchial and lung walls, increase in volume fractions of glands and vessels and reduction in loose fibrous connective tissue. Formation of the fibrous connective tissue was particularly noticeable in respiratory parts of the breathing organs suggesting a high risk of long-term adverse effects.