MR-Imaging in Osteoarthritis: Current Standard of Practice and Future Outlook.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as a powerful tool for the evaluation and monitoring of OA due to its ability to visualize soft tissues and bone with high resolution. This review aims to provide an overview of the current state of MRI in OA, with a special focus on the knee, including protocol recommendations for clinical and research settings. Furthermore, new developments in the field of musculoskeletal MRI are highlighted in this review. These include compositional MRI techniques, such as T2 mapping and T1rho imaging, which can provide additional important information about the biochemical composition of cartilage and other joint tissues. In addition, this review discusses semiquantitative joint assessment based on MRI findings, which is a widely used method for evaluating OA severity and progression in the knee. We analyze the most common scoring methods and discuss potential benefits. Techniques to reduce acquisition times and the potential impact of deep learning in MR imaging for OA are also discussed, as these technological advances may impact clinical routine in the future.

Egg yolk plasma enriched with ß-carotene through the diet of laying hens and adding it to the extender improves the quality of frozen semen in Arabic stallions.

Equine semen cryopreservation is one of the major procedures for the genetic conservation of rare and endangered genotypes. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of egg yolk plasma (EYP) enriched with ß-carotene as an antioxidant supplement on INRA-96 extender regarding freezing Arabic stallion sperm. For this purpose, ß-carotene various concentrations were utilized as a supplementary ingredient in formulating the diets of laying hens. Birds were randomly divided into four groups, fed with 0 (control), 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg in a supplemented diet with ß-carotene. Subsequently, various variants of enriched extender (INRA-96 + 2.5% glycerol [G]) were gained by adding 2% EYP from four treatment groups. The sperm characteristics, including motility, viability, morphology, plasma membrane integrity (HOS test), lipid peroxidation (MDA) and DNA fragmentation, were evaluated after thawing. According to the results obtained in this study, the addition of EYP from T2 and T4 (500 and 2000 mg/kg of ß-carotene in hens' diet) to the extender (INRA-96 + 2.5% G) leads to an increase in total motility (50.50% and 49.49%, respectively), progressive motility (32.6% and 31.8%, respectively), viability (68.7% and 66.1%, respectively) and plasma membrane integrity (57.7% and 50.6%, respectively). Moreover, lipid peroxidation (1.3 and 1.4 nmol/mL, respectively) and DNA fragmentation (8.6% and 9.9%, respectively) were diminished using the mentioned treatments. However, sperm morphology was not affected by the treatments. In the current study, we concluded that the optimal concentration of ß-carotene in the laying hen's diet (500 mg/kg) could reveal the best results about sperm quality. So, EYP enriched with ß-carotene acts as a valuable natural and safe supplementary material that could be exploited for enhancing stallion sperm quality in cryopreservation conditions.

L-carnitine improves quality parameters and epigenetic patterns of buck's frozen-thawed semen.

Buck sperm cryopreservation is an effective method to distribute qualified sperm for reproductive purposes, but this procedure reduces sperm quality. The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of L-carnitine (LC) on the quality and epigenetic patterns of buck's post-thawed semen. Semen samples were collected from five male goats twice a week and diluted in extenders supplemented with 0 (LC-0), 1 (LC-1), 5 (LC-5) and 10 (LC-10) mM LC. Samples were cryopreserved according to standard protocol. After thawing, motility characteristics, lipid peroxidation, membrane functionality, abnormal morphology, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, epigenetic modifications, viability, apoptotic-like changes and DNA fragmentation were assessed. Samples supplemented with 5 mM LC showed greater (P ≤ 0.05) total motility, progressive motility, membrane functionality, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, DNA methylation, viability, and lower (P ≤ 0.05) apoptotic-like changes. Lipid peroxidation was lower (P ≤ 0.05) in LC-5 and LC-10 compared to the control group. Addition of LC to the cryopreservation extender had no effect (P > 0.05) on velocity parameters, abnormal morphology, histone modifications, or DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, supplementing the cryopreservation extender with 5 mM LC significantly preserves the quality of buck sperm after the cryopreservation process.

Comparing Apparent Diffusion Coefficient and FNCLCC Grading to Improve Pretreatment Grading of Soft Tissue Sarcoma-A Translational Feasibility Study on Fusion Imaging.

Histological subtype and grading are cornerstones of treatment decisions in soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Due to intratumoral heterogeneity, pretreatment grading assessment is frequently unreliable and may be improved through functional imaging. In this pilot study, 12 patients with histologically confirmed STS were included. Preoperative functional magnetic resonance imaging was fused with a computed tomography scan of the resected specimen after collecting core needle biopsies and placing radiopaque markers at distinct tumor sites. The Fédération Nationale des Centres de Lutte Contre le Cancer (FNCLCC) grading criteria of the biopsies and apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) of the biopsy sites were correlated. Concordance in grading between the specimen and at least one biopsy was achieved in 9 of 11 cases (81.8%). In 7 of 12 cases, fusion imaging was feasible without relevant contour deviation. Functional analysis revealed a tendency for high-grade regions (Grade 2/3 (G2/G3)) (median (range) ± standard deviation: 1.13 (0.78-1.70) ± 0.23 × 10-3 mm2/s) to have lower ADC values than low-grade regions (G1; 1.43 (0.64-2.03) ± 0.46 × 10-3 mm2/s). In addition, FNCLCC scoring of multiple tumor biopsies proved intratumoral heterogeneity as expected. The ADC appears to correlate with the FNCLCC grading criteria. Further studies are needed to determine whether functional imaging may supplement histopathological grading.

Qualitative and Quantitative Workplace Analysis of Staff Requirement in an Academic Radiology Department. / Qualitative und quantitative Arbeitsplatzanalyse zur Ermittlung des Personalbedarfs in einer universitären radiologischen Abteilung.

PURPOSE: The role of today's hospital-based radiologists goes far beyond interpretation-related tasks. This observational study defines these types of activities and quantifies the type of value-adding interactions radiologists experience on a daily basis with referring departments and other health personnel. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the quality and quantity of these value-adding non-image interpretation tasks in the daily routine of hospital-based residents and attending radiologists. METHODS: A prospective, observational study was performed in the radiology department of a German university hospital. Two experienced radiologists performed a 30-day observation of the entire medical staff. The observers followed the subject radiologists throughout the workday, recording activities using a time and motion methodology. An evaluation matrix was developed to characterize and quantify image interpretation tasks (IITs), non-image interpretation tasks (NITs), and contingency allowance (CA) for residents and attending radiologists. Here, the example of the MRI unit is used. RESULTS: Four main categories of responsibilities for NITs were identified including teaching and education, clinical decision support, management and organization, and patient care. The quantitative analysis for residents showed: IITs 15 h/d (53 %), NITs 9.8 h/d (34 %), CA 2.2 h/d (13 %). For attendings the analysis revealed: IITs 6.7 h/d (40 %), NITs 7.8 h/d (47 %), and CA 1.7 h/d (13 %). This resulted in staff requirements of 2 attendings and 3.4 residents for the MRI unit. On average, 6 TSEs/h occurred in the case of residents and 13 TSEs/h in the case of attendings. CONCLUSION: NITs consumed a significant portion of a radiologist's workday. Therefore, the number of examinations performed is not a reliable surrogate for the daily workload of hospital-based radiologists especially in cross-sectional imaging units. Though time-consuming, these non-interpretive tasks are greatly contributing to the fact that modern radiology is assuming a central position in patient management, fulfilling a critical role that surpasses image interpretation-related tasks to include a more integrative and consultative role. These findings will help to further define the changing role of radiologists with respect to other physicians, non-medical personnel, hospital administrators, as well as policy makers. KEY POINTS: · Staff requirements are a significant factor in department strategy.. · Targeted analysis can deliver valuable information about workload per activity and the required staff.. · The number of examinations performed is not a reliable surrogate for the daily workload of hospital-based radiologists.. · NITs comprise a significant portion of a radiologist's workday.. · Though time-consuming, non-interpretive tasks contribute to the fact that modern radiology is assuming a central role in patient management.. CITATION FORMAT: · Streit U, Uhlig J, Lotz J et al. Qualitative and Quantitative Workplace Analysis of Staff Requirement in an Academic Radiology Department. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2021; 193: 1277 - 1284.

Analysis of core processes of the MRI workflow for improved capacity utilization.

PURPOSE: To analyze core processes of the MRI workflow and to evaluate efficiency for improved patient throughput and capacity utilization. METHOD: Prospective data collection was conducted during a four-week time period and a total sum of 160 working hours for each of the two 1.5 T MRI scanners. Three core processes defined the value stream of patient handling before, during and after the MRI examination: i) Scheduling & Registration, ii) Organization & Preparation, and iii) MR scan. Quantitative data was collected for six essential time intervals of the MRI workflow. RESULTS: A total of 302 MRI examinations were assessed. The workflow analysis revealed that effective utilization of scan capacity during operating hours varied by scanner (Scanner 1: 77 % / Scanner 2: 85 %). Mean process times for were: patient preparation time 18.9 min (±15.1) p = 0.11, scan preparation time 5.7 min (±4.0) p = 0,015, effective scan time 39.6 min (±18.0) p < 0.0001, scan room occupation time 50.9 min (±21.0) p < 0.0001, clean-up time 5.6 min (±3.2) p = 0.001, total patient handling time 69.7 min (±26.3) p < 0.0001, turnover time 13.4 min (±21.4) p = 0.65. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the utility and applicability of a standardized core processes analyses for MRI scanning, which identified underutilization of scanning capacities, related to multiple factors, such as punctuality of patients, the number of same day cancellations, the process of placing an IV access and patient transport contribute to underutilization of MRI scanners. Furthermore, proactive patient management and effective communication with patients and referring physicians might have relevant time saving potential in the scan room.

The Current S2e Guideline for Hallux valgus - Evidence-based Guideline Development Using Meta-analysis. / Die aktuelle S2e-Leitlinie zum Hallux valgus ­ eine evidenzbasierte Leitlinienentwicklung mittels Metaanalyse.

The hallux valgus deformity is untreated usually regarded as progressive deformity that does not necessarily lead to pain and suffering for the patient. Prevention primary: foot conforming footwear to avoid bruising and to avoid a forced progression of pathology. Functional stabilization of the foot by means of gymnastics or physiotherapy instructions. Secondary: orthotic and/or insoles to improve the functional stabilization. Tertiary: consistent adapted postoperative treatment, which is based on the operation procedure. The indication for initiation of a therapeutic measure is based on the suffering of the patient, age and presence of arthritis in the MTP-I-joint. More patient-specific pathologies may affect the initiation of treatment also. In the first stage of outpatient consultation and physiotherapy are at the forefront, additive analgesic or anti-inflammatory medication. Manual therapies, physiotherapy, orthotics or orthopedic measures adopted in view of the existing pathology and suffering pressure. In stage 2 of outpatient or inpatient surgical treatment therapeutic measures are indicated when symptomatic hallux valgus surgical therapy should be oriented on the severity of the pathology and the postoperative mobilization possibilities of the patient and other patient-specific criteria.

Evaluating reproductive performance of three estrus synchronization protocols in Ghezel ewes.

Although estrus synchronization considered valuable management tools for improving reproductive performance of ewes, their high expenses and complicated usage prevent sheep farmers to apply these techniques. Therefore, the present study was designed to compare three protocols of estrus synchronization on reproductive performance of Ghezel ewes. For this reason, 27 Ghezel ewes were assigned to three estrus synchronization treatment groups based on a completely randomized design included: progestogen sponge for 12 days + 500 IU eCG at the time of sponge withdrawal (P4eCG group, expensive synchronization), two doses of 75 µg cloprostenol with 12 days interval (CLO group, economical synchronization), and CLO +500 IU eCG at day 12 (CLOeCG group, moderately priced synchronization). Four consecutive blood samples were also collected during the experiment to evaluate progesterone concentrations. The results of the present experiment showed that pregnancy and lambing rates of the first estrus as well as blood progesterone concentration were not affected by the treatments (P > 0.05), though total pregnancy and lambing rates were higher in both P4eCG and CLOeCG groups (P < 0.01). Accordingly, both P4eCG and CLOeCG protocols successfully improved reproductive traits of ewes, though CLOeCG protocol is an advisable technique for sheep farmers through its moderate price, simple application, and high reproductive performance.

Isolation and Proliferation of Spermatogonial Cells from Ghezel Sheep.

BACKGROUND: Sheep industry has taken steps toward transforming itself into a more efficient and competitive field. There are many varieties of sheep breeds in the world that each of them serves a useful purpose in the economies of different civilizations. Ghezel sheep is one of the Iranian important breeds that are raised for meat, milk and wool. Field of spermatogonial cell technologies provides tools for genetic improvement of sheep herd and multiple opportunities for research. Spermatogonial cells are the only stem cells capable of transmitting genetic information to future generations. METHODS: This study was designed to extend the technique of isolation and in vitro proliferation of spermatogonial cells in Ghezel sheep. RESULTS: Isolated cells were characterized further by using specific markers for type A spermatogonia, including PLZF. Also, sertoli cells were characterized by vimentin which is a specific marker for sertoli cells. After 10 days of co-culture, viability rates of the cells was above 94.7%, but after the freezing process the viability rates were 74 percent. CONCLUSION: In this study, a standard method for isolation and in vitro proliferation of spermatogonial stem cells in Ghezel sheep was developed.

Effect of Aflatoxin B1 on Growth of Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells in 3D and Monolayer Culture System.

PURPOSE: Many studies have been showed transfer of aflatoxins, toxins produced by Aspergillus flvaus and Aspergillus parasiticus fungi, into milk. These toxins are transferred into the milk through digestive system by eating contaminated food. Due to the toxicity of these materials, it seems that it has side effects on the growth of mammary cells. Therefore, the present work aimed to investigate possible toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on bovine mammary epithelial cells in monolayer and three-dimensional cultures. METHODS: Specimens of the mammary tissue of bovine were sized out in size 2×2 cm in slaughterhouse. After disinfection and washing in sterile PBS, primary cell culture was performed by enzymatic digestion of tissue with collagenase. When proper numbers of cells were achieved in monolayer culture, cells were seeded in a 24-well culture plate for three-dimensional (3D) culture in Matrigel matrix. After 21 days of 3D culture and reaching the required number of cells, the concentrations of 15, 25 and 35 µL of AFB1 were added to the culture in quadruplicate and incubated for 8 hours. Cellular cytotoxicity was examined using standard colorimetric assay and finally, any change in the morphology of the cells was studied by microscopic technique. RESULTS: Microscopic investigations showed necrosis of the AFB1-exposed cells compared to the control cells. Also, bovine mammary epithelial cells were significantly affected by AFB1 in dose and time dependent manner in cell viability assays. CONCLUSION: According to the results, it seems that AFB1 can induce cytotoxicity and necrosis in bovine mammary epithelial cells.

Evaluation of STAT5A Gene Expression in Aflatoxin B1 Treated Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells.

PURPOSE: Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a potent mycotoxin which has been produced by fungi such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus as secondary metabolites due to their growth on food stuffs and induces hepatocellular carcinoma in many animal species, including humans. In the present study, the effect of AFB1 on STAT5A gene expression was investigated in bovine mammary epithelial cells using real time RT-PCR. METHODS: Bovine mammary epithelial cells were seeded in a 24-well culture plate for three-dimensional (3D) culture in Matrigel matrix. After 21 days of 3D culture and reaching the required number of cells, cells were treated with AFB1 and incubated for 8 h. For real time PCR reaction, total RNA from the cultured and treated cells was extracted and used for complementary DNA synthesis. RESULTS: The expression of STAT5A gene was significantly down regulated by AFB1 in dose- dependent manner and led to the reduction of proliferation and differentiation of epithelial cells, which has direct effect in milk protein quantity and quality. CONCLUSION: According to the results, it seems that down regulation of STAT5A gene in AFB1-treated cells maybe due to DNA damage induced by AFB1 in bovine mammary epithelial cells.

Follicle stimulating hormone increases spermatogonial stem cell colonization during in vitro co-culture.

The complex process of spermatogenesis is regulated by various factors. Studies on spermatogonial stem cells (SCCs) have provided very important tool to improve herd genetic and different field. 0.2 to 0.3 percent of total cells of seminiferous tubules is consist of spermatogonial stem cells. To investigate and biomanipulation of these cells, proliferation and viability rate of cells should be increased in vitro, at first. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) has been suggested to play a determinant role in the survival of germ cells in addition to increasing spermatogonial proliferation. In this study, the in vitro effects of FSH on spermatogonial cell colony formation were investigated. Sertoli and spermatogonial cells were isolated from 3-5 months old calves. The identity of the Sertoli cells and spermatogonial stem cells were confirmed through immunocytochemistry and colony morphology, respectively. Co-cultured Sertoli and spermatogonial cells were treated with FSH in different dose of 10, 20 and 40 IU mL(-1) FSH, before colony assay. Results indicated that, FSH increased in vitro colonization of spermatogonial cells in comparison with control group. In conclusion, using FSH provided proper bovine spermatogonial stem cell culture medium for in vitro study of these cells.

Differentiation of bovine spermatogonial stem cells into osteoblasts.

Spermatogonial Stem Cell (SSC) technologies provide multiple opportunities for research in the field of biotechnology and regenerative medicine. The therapeutic use of Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs) is restricted due to severe ethical and immunological concerns. Therefore, we need a new pluripotent cell type. Despite well-known role of germ cells in the gametogenesis, some facts apparently show their multipotentiality. In the present study, bovine SSCs were co-cultured with Sertoli cell for 7 days. Sertoli cells and SSCs were identified by Vimentin and Oct-4 immunocytochemical staining method, respectively. In order to differentiate SSCs into osteoblasts, we used consecutive inducer media without separation of the colonies. We characterized osteoblasts using Alizarin red staining.