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Oral implants have been increasingly used in the treatment of edentulous patients or those with dentition defects due to reliable treatment procedure and favorable long-term prognosis. We investigated the changes of labial soft tissue contours with different jumping spaces after immediate implant placement and restoration (IIPR) in the maxillary esthetic area and also provided a long-term stability measurement for the changing trend of soft tissue contour. All patients had been separated into three groups based on the jumping space: group A (horizontal defect dimension [HDD] 2 mm), group B (2 mm < HDD 3 mm), and group C (HDD > 3 mm) and the digital impressions were obtained in the first, third, and sixth month after the operation. The changes of gingival mucosa levels, the average thickness of soft tissue contour volume, and the linear change of submarginal level decreased gradually across the three groups, with the largest change of submarginal level being at 5mm. The size of the jumping space was moderately negatively correlated with the level and average thickness of gingival mucosa and the linear changes of 3 mm and 5 mm under gingival margin, while there was no significant correlation with pink esthetic score (PES) and the linear change of the 1 mm under the gingival margin. Generally, IIPR of upper anterior teeth can achieve esthetic satisfaction, and the level of soft tissue around the implant can be well preserved.

Τhis study aims to measure the abundance of microplastic (MP) particles in the soft tissue of mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and pearl oyster (Pinctada imbricata radiata) specimens. Samples were collected at four sites in Greece (Sagiada, Malesina, Elounda, Rhodes) from wild and farmed populations. The identification of MPs was accomplished by Raman spectroscopy. Comparisons were made between the two different species where the two species co-existed (Malesina), between the four study sites (five sampling stations) in relation to P. imbricata radiata individuals, and also in every station for the different MP types found. For the specimens from Malesina, M. galloprovincialis had more MPs in their soft tissue compared to P. imbricata radiata. Microfibers were found in abundance in M. galloprovincialis, while microfragments were found in P. imbricata radiata specimens. The main MP type found in P. imbricata radiata specimens was microfragments in all five sampling stations, and ranged between 1.54 ± 0.63 (Rhodes-baskets) and 3.56 ± 0.35 (Sagiada) MP particles/g. While the samples of mussels and pearl oysters were similar in age, the differences found in the concentrations of MPs appears to be due to their different farming methods and location characteristics concerning the five sampling stations of pearl oysters. This study indicates that the culturing system does not affect MP concentration in bivalves, and further investigation is needed to find the most appropriate method to limit and reduce MPs that end up in the farmed organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) considered as one of the most common degenerative diseases of synovial joint. KOA is mostly managed by physical therapy, focused on pain management, the range of motion and muscle strengthening but muscle flexibility is usually neglected. A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of dynamic soft tissue mobilization (DSTM) in comparison with the proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching in the management of hamstring tightness, reduction of pain intensity and improvement of physical functionality in KOA. Methods: Forty eight patients with KOA were randomly allocated to group A receiving DTSM and group B receiving PNF stretching. The cryotherapy and isometric strengthening exercises were also given to both groups. Total treatment duration consisted of 4 weeks, 3 sessions per week and total 12 sessions per patient. Each treatment session comprised of 30 min. At baseline and post treatment, Active knee extension test(AKET), Visual analogue scale (VAS), and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were used to assess hamstring flexibility, pain intensity level and physical functional capability respectively. The continuous variables were shown as mean and standard deviations. For the comparison of outcome within and between groups, paired sample and independent t-test was applied. Considerable p value was less than 0.05. Results: The between group analysis of VAS, right AKE test, and left AKE test showed non-significant (p > 0.05) mean difference as 0.2 (95% CI= -0.29, 0.70), 1.79 (95% CI= -1.84, 4.59), 1.78 (95% CI= -1.6, 5.19) respectively. KOOS domains of symptom, pain, ADLs, sports and recreational, and quality of life had also non-significant (p > 0.05) mean difference as 1.12 (95% CI= -4.05, 6.3), -5.12 (95% CI= -12.71, 2.46), -2.55 (95% CI= -7.47, 2.38), -2.7 (95% CI= -9.72, 4.3), and − 0.68 (95% CI= -7.69, 6.36) respectively. Significant (p < 0.001) improvement was shown in both groups for all outcome measures after 12 sessions. Conclusion: DSTM and PNF stretching, both treatments are equally beneficial in KOA for hamstring flexibility, pain reduction and functional mobility in terms of AKET, VAS, and KOOS respectively. Trial Registration: ClincalTrials.Gov with ID: NCT04925895, 14/06/2021, retrospectively registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tissue engineering, as stated by Langer and Vacanti, is an interdisciplinary field that applies the principles of engineering and life sciences toward the development of biological substitutes that restore, maintain, or improve biological tissue function or a whole organ. Tissue engineering incorporates several important components in order to create in vivo mimicry. Those factors are tissue specific and each organ poses a unique scope of requirements. Several unique fabrication methods exist: extrusion printing, inkjet, laser-assisted printing, stereolithography, and FRESH. Methods: A systematic literature review via PubMed was performed to identify appropriate publications incorporating "keyword" phrases, "soft tissue", "3D-printing", "tissue engineering", and "bio-engineering", between Jan 2015 and Jan 2022 according to the PRISMA standard flowchart. Results: Search result yielded 1350 papers. Two-hundred seventy eigth papers were assessed for inclusion criteria. Fifty-five full text articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Articles were analyzed by the senior author (Y.W.) and divided to various fields of research: 3D-bioprinting technology, cellular component, bioink matrix and clinical implications. Each of these fields has undergone substantial development in recent years. Conclusions: Due to the importance of 3D bioprinting and the never-ending progress in this field and its contribution to the field of medicine in term of clinical implementations, we believe that surgeons and physicians alike should familiarize themselves with the basic concepts of 3D-bio printing in order to keep track of the ever-growing literature of this fascinating sphere. We believe that a stepwise exposure of young physicians to this field is mandatory, from their basic science training through their internship and continuing advanced education. Level of evidence: Not gradable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing customized abutments are increasingly used in everyday clinical practice. Nevertheless, solid scientific evidence is currently lacking regarding their potential advantages in terms of soft tissue stability. The main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the soft tissue outcomes of prefabricated versus customized (CAD/CAM) abutments. The present review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020161875) and the protocol was developed according to the PRISMA statement. An electronic search was performed on three databases (PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central) up to May 2023. Data extraction was followed by qualitative and quantitative analysis of the included studies. Three randomized controlled clinical trials and three controlled clinical trials (number of patients = 230; number of dental implants = 230) with a follow-up of between 12 and 36 months were included. No significant differences were observed between prefabricated versus customized (CAD/CAM) abutments regarding midfacial mucosal recession, interproximal papillae and pink aesthetic score (PES) after 12 months. Conclusion: The potential benefits of CAD/CAM abutments on soft tissues should be better clarified in future investigations. The usage of customized CAD/CAM abutments in everyday clinical practice should be based on a careful case-by-case evaluation (CRD42020161875). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Damping plays an important role in the middle ear (ME) sound transmission system. However, how to mechanically characterize the damping of ME soft tissues and the role of damping in ME sound transmission have not yet reached a consensus. In this paper, a finite element (FE) model of the partial external and ME of the human ear, considering both Rayleigh damping and viscoelastic damping for different soft tissues, is developed to quantitatively investigate the damping in soft tissues effects on the wide-frequency response of the ME sound transmission system. The model-derived results can capture the high-frequency (above 2 kHz) fluctuations and obtain the 0.9 kHz resonant frequency (RF) of the stapes velocity transfer function (SVTF) response. The results show that the damping of pars tensa (PT), stapedial annular ligament (SAL) and incudostapedial joints (ISJ) can help smooth the broadband response of the umbo and stapes footplate (SFP). It is found that, between 1 and 8 kHz, the damping of the PT increases the magnitude and phase delay of the SVTF above 2 kHz while the damping of the ISJ can avoid excessive phase delay of the SVTF, which is important in maintaining the synchronization in high-frequency vibration but has not been revealed before. Below 1 kHz, the damping of the SAL plays a more important role, and it can decrease the magnitude but increases the phase delay of the SVTF. This study has implications for a better understanding of the mechanism of ME sound transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To construct effective prediction models for neoadjuvant radiotherapy (RT) and targeted therapy based on whole-tumor texture analysis of multisequence MRI for soft tissue sarcoma (STS) patients. Methods: Thirty patients with STS of the extremities or trunk from a prospective phase II trial were enrolled for this analysis. All patients underwent pre- and post-neoadjuvant RT MRI examinations from which whole-tumor texture features were extracted, including T1-weighted with fat saturation and contrast enhancement (T1FSGd), T2-weighted with fat saturation (T2FS), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences and their corresponding apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps. According to the postoperative pathological results, the patients were divided into pathological complete response (pCR) and non-pCR (N-pCR) groups. pCR was defined as less than 5% of residual tumor cells by postoperative pathology. Delta features were defined as the percentage change in a texture feature from pre- to post-neoadjuvant RT MRI. After data reduction and feature selection, logistic regression was used to build prediction models. ROC analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic performance. Results: Five of 30 patients (16.7%) achieved pCR. The Delta_Model (AUC 0.92) had a better predictive ability than the Pre_Model (AUC 0.78) and Post_Model (AUC 0.76) and was better than AJCC staging (AUC 0.52) and RECIST 1.1 criteria (AUC 0.52). The Combined_Model (pre, post, and delta features) had the best predictive performance (AUC 0.95). Conclusion: Whole-tumor texture analysis of multisequence MRI can well predict pCR status after neoadjuvant RT and targeted therapy in STS patients, with better performance than RECIST 1.1 and AJCC staging. Key points: • MRI multisequence texture analysis could predict the efficacy of neoadjuvant RT and targeted therapy for STS patients. • Texture features showed incremental value beyond routine clinical factors. • The Combined_Model with features at multiple time points showed the best performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional teaching in the management of partial hand amputations prioritizes residual limb length, often through local, regional, or distant flaps. While multiple options exist to provide durable soft tissue coverage, only a few flaps are thin and pliable enough to match that of the dorsal hand skin. Despite debulking, excessive soft tissues from previous flap reconstructions can interfere with residual limb function, prosthesis fit, and surface electrode recording for myoelectric prostheses. With rapid advances in prosthetic technology and nerve transfer techniques, patients can achieve very high levels of function following prosthetic rehabilitation that rival, or even outpace, traditional soft tissue reconstruction. Therefore, our reconstruction algorithm for partial hand amputations has evolved to the thinnest coverage possible, providing adequate durability. This evolution has provided our patients with faster and more secure prosthesis fitting with better surface electrode detection, enabling earlier and improved use of simple and advanced partial hand prostheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineering synthetic hydrogels for the repair and augmentation of load-bearing soft tissues with simultaneously high-water content and mechanical strength is a long-standing challenge. Prior formulations to enhance the strength have involved using chemical crosslinkers where residues remain a risk for implantation or complex processes such as freeze-casting and self-assembly, requiring specialised equipment and technical expertise to manufacture reliably. In this study, we report for the first time that the tensile strength of high-water content (>60 wt.%), biocompatible polyvinyl alcohol hydrogels can exceed 1.0 MPa through a combination of facile manufacturing strategies via physical crosslinking, mechanical drawing, post-fabrication freeze drying, and deliberate hierarchical design. It is anticipated that the findings in this paper can also be used in conjunction with other strategies to enhance the mechanical properties of hydrogel platforms in the design and construction of synthetic grafts for load-bearing soft tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For acute and chronic soft tissue infections, radical surgical debridement is required and is considered the gold standard, along with its immediate systemic antibiotic therapy. Treatment with local antibiotics and/or antibiotic-containing materials is commonly used as an additional tool in clinical practice. Spraying with fibrin and antibiotics is a newer technique that has been studied for some antibiotics. However, for gentamicin, data are not yet available on absorption, optimal application, antibiotic fate at the site and transfer of antibiotic into the blood. In an animal study involving 29 Sprague Dawley rats, 116 back wounds were sprayed with gentamicin using either gentamicin alone or one of two possible spray combinations of gentamicin and fibrin. Simultaneous application of gentamicin and fibrin via a spray system to soft tissue wounds resulted in significant antibiotic concentration over a long period of time. The technique is easy and cost-effective. The systemic crossover was significantly minimized in our study, which may have led to fewer side effects in patients. These results could lead to an improvement in local antibiotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imaging should be performed in patients with a suspected soft tissue mass that cannot be clinically confirmed as benign. Imaging provides essential information necessary for diagnosis, local staging, and biopsy planning. Although the modalities available for imaging of musculoskeletal masses have undergone progressive technological advancements in recent years, their overall purpose in the setting of a soft tissue mass remains unchanged. This document identifies the most common clinical scenarios related to soft tissue masses and the most appropriate imaging for their assessment on the basis of the current literature. It also provides general guidance for those scenarios that are not specifically addressed. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a yellowish-white ulcer-shaped lesion in the oral mucosa. The prevalence of RAS is estimated to be 20% of the world population. Based on Basic Health Search Indonesia in 2018, the prevalence of RAS was 8% of all oral health problems in Indonesia. Stress is one of the risk factors for recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Someone who is stressed will experience a decrease in the immune system, resulting in tissue destruction in the oral cavity. Purpose: To analyze the relationship between stress and RAS in Faculty of Dentistry, Lambung Mangkurat University students. Methods: This is analytical observational research with a cross-sectional study design. The study used a simple random sampling technique with a total sample of 57 co-assistants of the Dentistry at Lambung Mangkurat University. RAS was examined using a questionnaire, and the stress level was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire. The results of the study were analyzed using the chi-square test. Results: The result shows that the stress level suffered by the respondents is mainly in the moderate category, with a percentage of 44%. In comparison, the incident of RAS with positive results is mainly experienced by respondents with a percentage of 70.18%. The analysis using the chi-square test showed a significant relationship between stress and SAR with a significance value of 0.01 (p <0.05). Conclusion: The higher the stress level experienced will increase the risk of developing SAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the world of clinic treatments, 3D-printed tissue constructs have emerged as a less invasive treatment method for various ailments. Printing processes, scaffold and scaffold free materials, cells used, and imaging for analysis are all factors that must be observed in order to develop successful 3D tissue constructs for clinical applications. However, current research in 3D bioprinting model development lacks diverse methods of successful vascularization as a result of issues with scaling, size, and variations in printing method. This study analyzes the methods of printing, bioinks used, and analysis techniques in 3D bioprinting for vascularization. These methods are discussed and evaluated to determine the most optimal strategies of 3D bioprinting for successful vascularization. Integrating stem and endothelial cells in prints, selecting the type of bioink according to its physical properties, and choosing a printing method according to physical properties of the desired printed tissue are steps that will aid in the successful development of a bioprinted tissue and its vascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase aberration from soft tissue limits the efficacy of histotripsy, a therapeutic ultrasound technique based on acoustic cavitation. Previous work has shown that the acoustic emissions from cavitation can serve as "point sources" for aberration correction (AC). This study compared the efficacy of soft tissue AC for histotripsy using acoustic cavitation emissions (ACE) from bubble cloud nucleation and collapse. A 750-kHz, receive-capable histotripsy array was pulsed to generate cavitation in ex vivo porcine liver through an intervening abdominal wall. Received ACE signals were used to determine the arrival time differences to the focus and compute corrective delays. Corrections from single pulses and from the median of multiple pulses were tested. On average, ACE AC obtained 96% ± 3% of the pressure amplitude obtained by hydrophone-based correction (compared with 71% ± 5% without AC). Both nucleation- and collapse-based corrections obtained >96% of the hydrophone-corrected pressure when using medians of ≥10 pulses. When using single-pulse corrections, nucleation obtained a range of 49%–99% of the hydrophone-corrected pressure, while collapse obtained 95%–99%. The results suggest that (i) ACE AC can recover nearly all pressure amplitude lost owing to soft tissue aberration and that (ii) the collapse signal permits robust AC using a small number of pulses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Soft tissue and bone sarcomas are a diverse group of aggressive tumors. Lately, the shift in their management, with an emphasis on limb salvage, has deemed the involvement of reconstructive surgeons an integral part of their multidisciplinary treatment. We present our experience with 90 free and pedicled free tissue transfers in the reconstruction of sarcomas at a major sarcoma center over a 5-year period: diabetes, alcohol consumption and male gender were associated with increased wound healing problems, preoperative chemotherapy significantly increased the occurrence of early infection, while preoperative radiotherapy was associated with a higher incidence of lymphedema. Reconstructive surgery with either pedicled or free tissue transfer after sarcoma resection is reliable, but a higher complication rate is to be expected with neoadjuvant therapy and with certain comorbidities. Background: Soft tissue and bone sarcomas are heterogeneous groups of malignant tumors. The shift in their management, with an emphasis on limb salvage, has deemed the involvement of reconstructive surgeons an integral part of their multidisciplinary treatment. We present our experience with free and pedicled flaps in the reconstruction of sarcomas at a tertiary referral university hospital and major sarcoma center. Materials and Methods: All patients undergoing flap reconstruction after sarcoma resection over a 5-year period have been included in the study. Patient-related data and postoperative complications were collected retrospectively, ensuring a minimum follow-up of 3 years. Results: A total of 90 patients underwent treatment with 26 free flaps and 64 pedicled flaps. Postoperative complications occurred in 37.7% of patients, and the flap failure rate was 4.4%. Diabetes, alcohol consumption and male gender were associated with increased early necrosis of the flap. Preoperative chemotherapy significantly increased the occurrence of early infection and late dehiscence, while preoperative radiotherapy was associated with a higher incidence of lymphedema. Intraoperative radiotherapy was associated with late seromas and lymphedema. Conclusions: Reconstructive surgery with either pedicled or free flaps is reliable, but it can be demanding in the setting of sarcoma surgery. A higher complication rate is to be expected with neoadjuvant therapy and with certain comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern developments of biomedical applications demand a better understanding of mechanical behaviour of soft biological tissues. As human soft tissues demonstrate a significant structural and functional diversity, characterisation of their mechanical behaviour still remains a challenge. Limitations related with implementation of mechanical experiments on human participants lead to a use of finite-element models for analysis of mechanical responses of soft tissues to different loads. This study focuses on parameters of numerical simulation considered for modelling of indentation of a human lower limb. Assessment of the effect of boundary conditions on the model size shows that at a ratio of its length to the tissue's thickness of 1.7 for the 3D model this effect vanishes. The numerical results obtained with models employing various sets of mechanical parameters of the first-order Ogden scheme were compared with original experimental data. Furthermore, high sensitivity of the resulting reaction forces to the indenting direction is demonstrated for cases of both linear and angular misalignments of the indenter. Finally, the effect of changes in material parameters and their domain on their contribution to the reaction forces is discussed with the aim to improve our understanding of mechanical behaviour of soft tissues based on numerical methods. The undertaken research with its results on minimal requirements for finite-element models of indentation of soft tissues can support inverse analysis of their mechanical properties and underpin orthopaedic and medical procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work provides a comprehensive review of the literature on the mechanical properties and existing human tunica albuginea tissue testing methods. Assessments were completed on papers reporting experimental values of Young's modulus, tensile strength, puncture strength, stiffness, toughness, and strain at the ultimate tensile strength (UTS). A high degree of variability in the reported experimental values was found; Young's modulus ranged from 5 MPa to 118 MPa, and tensile strength went from 1.1 MPa to 6.1 MPa. A comparison of the variability of the reported experimental values for puncture strength, stiffness, toughness, and strain at the UTS could not be completed due to a lack of experimental results. This review discusses the pathophysiology and surgical treatment of erectile dysfunction and Peyronie's disease, variability in the existing reported mechanical properties, the impact of the variability of mechanical properties on in silico models and explores the absence of a standardised testing method as a possible reason for the variable in results. Finally, this work attempts to provide suggestions for standardising future mechanical testing of the tunica albuginea through minimising and reporting freeze/thaw cycling, noting the proximal/distal region of the cadaver tunica sample, reporting the orientation (o'clock position) of the cadaver tunica sample, and testing the cadaver tunica samples in bi-axial tension. Ultimately, standardising the testing methodologies of the tunica albuginea will provide higher confidence in reported mechanical property values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastatic sarcomas to pleural effusion are extremely rare, accounting for <1% of all malignant pleural effusions. We aim to present our experience with pleural effusion specimens containing metastatic sarcomas over a 10-year period. We performed a 10-year retrospective search of cytopathology archives to identify all pleural effusions that were involved by metastatic sarcoma. All available cytopathology and surgical pathology specimens were retrieved and reviewed. Twenty-eight pleural fluids from 22 patients with metastatic sarcoma were identified in our search. The patients' ages ranged from 12 to 73 years. The pleural fluid volumes ranged from 10 to 1500 ml. Rhabdomyosarcoma was the most commonly encountered metastatic sarcoma to pleural effusion (n = 7). Other metastatic sarcomas were as follows: epithelioid angiosarcoma (n = 4), Ewing sarcoma (n = 3), clear cell sarcoma (n = 2), high grade conventional osteosarcoma (n = 2), undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (n = 1), epithelioid sarcoma, proximal type (n = 1), dedifferentiated liposarcoma (n = 1), and conventional chondrosarcoma (n = 1). The time between initial diagnosis and effusion varied from 3 months to 25 years. Two patients are alive with disease at 6 and 21 months of follow-up. All other patients were dead of disease and the survival after a malignant pleural effusion ranged from <1 month to 18 months. Metastatic bone and soft tissue sarcomas to pleural effusions are rare and their cytologic features can be mistaken for carcinoma, melanoma, or mesothelioma. Careful review of the patient's medical history, comparison of the previous pathology and the use of ancillary studies are crucial for the evaluation of pleural effusions involved by metastatic sarcomas. • Metastatic sarcomas to pleural effusion are extremely rare. • Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common sarcoma encountered in pleural effusion. • The cytologic features of sarcomas in pleural effusion can be mistaken for carcinoma, melanoma, or mesothelioma. • Careful review of the patient's medical history, comparison of previous pathology, and use of ancillary studies are helpful for the diagnosis of metastatic sarcomas to effusion. • Metastatic sarcomas to pleural effusion portend a dismal prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft tissue material properties are vital to human body models that evaluate interactions between the human body and its environment. Such models evaluate internal stress/strain responses in soft tissues to investigate issues like pressure injuries. Numerous constitutive models and parameters have been used to represent mechanical behavior of soft tissues in biomechanical models under quasi-static loading. However, researchers reported that generic material properties cannot accurately represent specific target populations due to large inter-individual variability. Two challenges that exist are experimental mechanical characterization and constitutive modeling of biological soft tissues and personalization of constitutive parameters using non-invasive, non-destructive bedside testing methods. It is imperative to understand the scope and appropriate applications for reported material properties. Thus, the goal of this paper was to compile studies from which soft tissue material properties were obtained and categorize them by source of tissue samples, methods used to quantify deformation, and material models used to describe tissues. The collected studies displayed wide ranges of material properties, and factors that affected the properties included whether tissue samples were in vivo or ex vivo , from humans or animals, the body region tested, body position during in vivo studies, deformation measurements, and material models used to describe tissues. Because of the factors that affected reported material properties, it is clear that much progress has been made in understanding soft tissue responses to loading, yet there is a need to broaden the scope of reported soft tissue material properties and better match reported properties to appropriate human body models. • Soft tissue properties were collected from animals and humans, in-vivo and ex-vivo. • Sample source, body region and position, and testing conditions affected properties. • Models and tissue properties should match to ensure realistic approximations. • Guidelines for reporting uncertainty in models depend on material characterization. • Growing efforts in personalized soft tissue properties may reduce uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Türk Radyoloji Seminerleri is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: The study aimed to examine plantar fascia stiffness in individuals over and under 65 years of age, and to question the predicted effect of age and vitamin D level on the dominant side plantar fascia stiffness. Material and Methods: Forty adults were included to the study. The participants were divided into two groups as equal or above 65 years and below 65 years. Plantar fascia stiffness was evaluated using a digital hand-held myotonometer. Data on vitamin D levels were extracted from medical records. Results: Plantar fascia stiffness was higher in the right (Δ= 141.80±39.86 N/m, p=.001), and left foot (Δ=116.85±38.45 N/m, p=.004), and in the dominant side (Δ= 153.6±38.2 N/m, p<.001) in participants over 65 years of age. Age had a significant positive predicted effect on plantar fascia stiffness (β=.595, R2= 0.35, p<.001). Vitamin D level had a significant negative effect on plantar fascia stiffness (β=-.328, R2 =.108, p=.03). Conclusion: The results of the research showed that plantar fascia stiffness was higher in individuals over 65 years of age. The stiffness of PF is slightly decreased as the vitamin D level improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To histologically evaluate soft tissue healing following immediately placed one‐piece zirconia implant and grafting a xenograft into the buccal gap. Materials and Methods: The third and fourth premolars (PM3 and PM4) in both quadrants of the mandible of nine dogs were used for this experiment. Those teeth were removed flapless and implants were placed into the distal sockets in a lingual position. In one side of the jaw, the gap between the implant and the socket walls was grafted (test) while no grafting was performed in the contralateral side (control), randomly selected. After 6 months of healing, biopsies were obtained and prepared for histological analysis. Soft tissue measures like supracrestal soft tissue height (STH), length of barrier epithelium (BE), and connective tissue (CTC) were measured at buccal and lingual surfaces. Results: The marginal mucosa was in a coronal position on the test side compared with the control side. At the buccal surface, the BE was longer in the test side than in the control side, while the CTC was longer in the control side than in the test side. For the STH (BE + CTC), the difference between the groups was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The placement of a xenograft into the gap between a 1‐piece zirconia implant and the buccal wall in dogs modified the process of soft tissue healing, providing less soft tissue recession. The gap size seems to have a modifying effect on the application of this protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) is an established method to treat transverse maxillary hypoplasia in skeletally mature adult patients. SARPE affects the surrounding soft tissue. In addition, effects on the airway and breathing have been described. Aim of this study was to assess the effects of SARPE on the nasal soft tissue and the upper airway by means of three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: This retrospective study used preoperative and postoperative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry. Ten skeletally adult patients (4 male, 6 female; mean age 27.68 years) with transverse maxillary hypoplasia were included. Patients had undergone SARPE procedure, performed by the same surgical team using the same technique. Nasal soft tissue changes were analyzed, using three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry records taken preoperatively (t0) and at the postoperative checkup appointment (t1). The upper airway was assessed using CBCT scans for surgical planning (t0) and the first scan taken after SARPE (t1). Results: In stereophotogrammetry, it was shown that only a few soft tissue nasal parameters increased significantly and SARPE leads to mainly clinically irrelevant changes in nasal soft tissue. In CBCT, only a significant increase in nasopharyngeal airway volume was found. Discussion: Results were in alignment with literature. The effects of SARPE on the nasal soft tissue are mostly statistically insignificant and clinically irrelevant. Airway volume significantly increased in the nasopharyngeal area. Further research on SARPE effects should be conducted to reinforce SARPE as a treatment option for sleep apnea patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peri‐implant mucosa color (PMC) seems to be one of the main parameters affecting the esthetic outcome of implant therapy. However, more emphasis should be given to its assessment and reporting. Purpose: To describe the available evidence on methods to assess and report the color of the peri‐implant mucosa (PMC) and the respective clinical relevance. Material and Methods: A comprehensive electronic and manual search was performed to identify clinical studies reporting on PMC. Results: A total of 121 studies were included. PMC was evaluated at the time of the follow‐up visit (chairside) in 45.5% studies. PMC assessment was performed qualitatively, by comparing PMC with adjacent and/or contralateral gingiva (78.6%) or quantitatively, using spectrophotometry (20.7%) or a software on clinical photographs (0.8%). The most performed method to assess PMC was through esthetic indices (76.9%), either at the time of the follow‐up visit (chairside) or at later time point using photographs. Quantitative reporting of PMC included averages of points from esthetic indices or color differences to natural gingiva expressed with the CIELAB color system. PMC assessment allowed describing color discrepancies compared to natural gingiva, evaluating color changes over time, and comparing the outcomes of different treatment modalities. PMC assessment through spectrophotometry was additionally utilized to assess the role of mucosal thickness (MT) on PMC. Conclusions: Various methods for PMC assessment and reporting were described, including visual assessment, mainly through esthetic indices, and spectrophotometry. PMC evaluation has allowed to demonstrate the factors affecting the color of the peri‐implant soft tissue, such as the type of abutment/restoration, MT, and soft tissue augmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic had greatly and negatively impacted health services including the management of bone and soft tissue sarcoma. As disease progression is time-sensitive, decision taken by the oncology orthopedic surgeon on performing surgical treatment determines the patient outcome. On the other hand, as the world tried to control the spread of COVID-19 infection, treatment re-prioritization based on urgency level had to be done which consequently affect treatment provision for sarcoma patients. Patient and clinician's concern regarding the outbreak have also inflicted on treatment decision making. A systematic review was thought to be necessary to summarize the changes seen in managing primary malignant bone and soft tissue tumors. We performed this systematic review in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 Statement. The review protocol had been registered on PROSPERO with submission number CRD42022329430. We included studies which reported primary malignant tumor diagnosis and its surgical intervention from March 11th, 2020 onwards. The main outcome is to report changes implemented by different centers around the world in managing primary malignant bone tumors surgically in response to the pandemic. Three electronic medical databases were scoured and by applying eligibility criteria. Individual authors evaluated the articles' quality and risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale other instruments developed by JBI of the University of Adelaide. The overall quality assessment of this systematic review was self-evaluated using the AMSTAR (Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews) Checklist. There were 26 studies included in the review with various study designs, conveyed in almost all continents. The outcomes from this review are change in surgery time, change in surgery type, and change in surgery indication in patients with primary bone and soft tissue sarcoma. Surgery timing has been experiencing delay since the pandemic occurred, including delay in the multidisciplinary forum, which were all related to lockdown regulations and travel restrictions. For surgery type, limb amputation was preferred compared to limb-salvage procedures due to shorter duration and simpler reconstruction with better control of malignancy. Meanwhile, the indications for surgical management are still based on the patient's demographics and disease stages. However, some would stall surgery regardless of malignancy infiltration and fracture risks which are indication for amputation. As expected, our meta-analysis showed higher post-surgical mortality in patients with malignant bone and soft tissue sarcoma during the COVID-19 pandemic with odds ratio of 1.14. Surgical management of patients with primary bone and soft tissue sarcoma has seriously been affected due to adjustments to the COVID-19 pandemic. Other than institutional restrictions to contain the infection, patient and clinician's decisions to postpone treatment due to COVID-19 transmission concern were also impactful in treatment course. Delay in surgery timing has caused higher risk of worse surgical outcome during the pandemic, which is aggravated if the patient is infected by COVID-19 as well. As we transition into a post-COVID-19 pandemic period, we expect patients to be more lenient in returning for their treatment but by then disease progression might have taken place, resulting in worse overall prognosis. Limitation to this study were few assumptions made in the synthesis of numerical data and meta-analysis only for changes in surgery time outcome and lack of intervention studies included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large number of soft tissue masses affect the foot and ankle, with the majority being benign. Benign and malignant soft tissue lesions usually present as lumps, and it is important to differentiate between them to allow for optimal management. Imaging, in particular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), can contribute to narrow the differential diagnosis of soft tissue masses of the foot and ankle by describing its exact location, internal signal characteristics, presence of enhancement, and its relation to adjacent structures. In this review, we review the literature to describe the most common soft tissue masses around the foot and ankle, focusing on the MRI features of the lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analysed the differences in clinical presentation between proximal (above elbow) and distal (below elbow) upper limb metastases in a retrospective review of patients presenting to our centre from 2011 to 2019. There were 55 cases, 64% involving the humerus and 62% occurring in men. The median age at the time of diagnosis was 64 years. Thirty-one per cent of the cases were proximal lesions. Distal upper limb metastases were more likely to be soft tissue lesions (71%) compared with proximal lesions (8%). The median age of patients with distal lesions was significantly lower at 58 years compared with 65 years for proximal lesions. Overall, non-small cell lung carcinoma was the most common primary malignancy (25%), however haematological cancers were most common in the distal group (29%). Distal upper limb metastases have distinct features that distinguish them from proximal lesions. Level of evidence : IV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A push for environmentally friendly approaches to biomaterials fabrication has emerged from growing conservational concerns in recent years. Different stages in silk fibroin scaffold production, including sodium carbonate (Na2CO3)-based degumming and 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP)-based fabrication, have drawn attention for their associated environmental concerns. Environmentally friendly alternatives have been proposed for each processing stage; however, an integrated green fibroin scaffold approach has not been characterized or used for soft tissue applications. Here, we show that the combination of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as a substitute degumming agent with the popular "aqueous-based" alternative silk fibroin gelation method yields fibroin scaffolds with comparable properties to traditional Na2CO3-degummed aqueous-based scaffolds. The more environmentally friendly scaffolds were found to have comparable protein structure, morphology, compressive modulus, and degradation kinetics, with increased porosity and cell seeding density relative to traditional scaffolds. Human adipose-derived stem cells showed high viability after three days of culture while seeded in each scaffold type, with uniform cell attachment to pore walls. Adipocytes from human whole adipose tissue seeded into scaffolds were found to have similar levels of lipolytic and metabolic function between conditions, in addition to a healthy unilocular morphology. Results indicate that our more environmentally friendly methodology for silk scaffold production is a viable alternative and well suited to soft tissue applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many types of foreign bodies found in soft tissues in children. Ultrasound is a very useful tool in diagnosis. The article presents a series of cases - children with foreign bodies located in soft tissues - in which the diagnosis was confirmed with the use of ultrasound. Different features of different foreign bodies can provide information about the foreign body type (gravel, glass, wooden splinter, metal). The foreign bodies could be successfully removed under local anesthesia. Ultrasound can be used to confirm the presence of soft tissue foreign bodies in suspected patients. Moreover, the features of the image can provide information about the foreign body type. In the pediatric population, the main advantage of ultrasound is the reduction of X-rays performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma is a rare tumor mainly affecting young people, of poor prognosis with very high mortality rates especially in metastatic forms. It can affect different locations, without specific clinical signs, which delays the diagnosis. Imaging plays an important role for diagnosis, staging, preoperative assessment and surveillance. The diagnosis should be set early to a better management. We report a case of a 30-year-old man with a large extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma of the left thigh. The patient was initially treated with chemotherapy. Unfortunately, the tumor has increased in size making surgery impossible. The patient ultimately died of pulmonary metastases.

Abstract Background Pediatric emergency department (ED) visits for superficial skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) have steadily been increasing and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) continues to be an effective modality to improve management and shorter ED length of stays (LOS). Objective We sought to determine the impact of a soft tissue POCUS curriculum on POCUS utilization, ED LOS, and cost-effectiveness. Methods This was a retrospective pre- and post-interventional study of pediatric patients aged 0 to 17 years. Patients presenting to ED with international classification of disease 9 or 10 code for abscess or cellulitis were included. Data were collected a year before and after curriculum implementation with a 1-year washout training period. Training included continuing medical education, greater than 25 quality assured examinations, and a post-test. We compared diagnostic imaging type, ED LOS, and mean charges in patients with SSTI. Results We analyzed data on 119 total patients, 38 pre- and 81 post-intervention. We found a significant increase in the total number of POCUS examinations performed pre- to post-curriculum intervention, 26 vs. 59 (p = 0.0017). Mean total charges were significantly decreased from $3,762 (± 270) to $2,622 (± 158; p = 0.0009). There was a significant trend towards a decrease in average ED LOS 282 (standard error of mean [SEM] ± 19) vs 185 (± 13) minutes (p = 0.0001). Conclusions Implementation of a soft tissue POCUS curriculum in a pediatric ED was associated with increased POCUS use, decreased LOS, and lower cost. These findings highlight the importance of POCUS education and implementation in the management of pediatric SSTI.

Background: This study was conducted to evaluate the differences in soft tissue as well as dental compensation in skeletal Class II div 1 malocclusion. Methods and Materials: The study sample consists of pre-treatment lateral cephalograms of 100 subjects of both gender having skeletal Class II and dental Class II div 1 malocclusion visiting the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College, and Hospital Navi Mumbai. Cephalograms of the subjects fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in this study. Results: This research was conducted to assess dental and soft tissue compensation in skeletal Class II div 1 malocclusion and comparative assessment of lip prominence measured from two soft tissue vertical reference lines. The 100 subjects selected randomly out of which 44 men and 56 women, age ranging from 18 to 35 years. Conclusion: ARNETT'S method and PROFFIT'S method showed statistically significant as P < 0.0001. PROFFIT'S method and LEGAN-BURSTONE'S method showed statistically significant as P < 0.0001.

There is an alarming increase in the incidence of both oral and base of the tongue squamous cell carcinoma during the past decades, especially in women and younger patients without the traditional risk factors of alcohol or tobacco use. Locoregional spread of tumor via lymphatics to submandibular and jugulodigastric lymph nodes is common. Soft-tissue metastasis (STM) in the neck of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma is very rare and represents nonnodal-based metastasis. It has a significant adverse impact on the survival of patients. STM in the neck as a presenting symptom of oral tongue carcinoma is very unusual and extremely rare.