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Morphogenesis of the human rib cage.

Abstract—The morphology of the human embryo, especially the skeletal structure, is potentially important during development. The aim of this study was to analyze the formation of the rib cage to detect prominent features of human development. Rib cage formation was analyzed using high-resolution digitalized imaging data (n=34) between CS17 and CS23. The rib cage first appeared as cartilage formation at CS17 and was located at the dorsal side of the chest-abdominal region. Each pair of ribs covered the region during development, and differentiation of the upper and lower rib cage was detectable at CS20. The upper part of the rib cage was closed by the tip of each pair of ribs attached to the sternum between CS21 and CS23, while the lower part was widely open. PC1 and PC2 accounted for 76.3% and 16.4% (sum, 92.7%) of the total variance, that mean that the change of shape is mainly documented by two component. Change in PC1 shows the circular form surrounding the body trunk. Decrease of PC1 showed the closing of the tip of ribs, while increase of the PC1 showed the aperture of the tip of the ribs. Change in PC2 showed the dorsal convex of the ribs. Increase of PC2 showed the dorsal convex of the ribs while decrease of the PC2 showed the lateral projection at the middle part of the ribs. Distribution of PC1 and PC2 value by each rib showed high correlation with fitted to quartic equation (y = 0.072×4 + 0.1535×3 + 0.1785×2 – 0.2976x – 0.7001; R² = 0.820). PC1 and PC2 value of each rib pair moved its position along to the fitting curve according to the development from CS 18 to CS 23.The change in PC1 and PC2 could be expressed by one parameter using fitting curve as linear scale for Shape, indicating that all 12 paired ribs differentiate its shape according to a common sequential changes during human embryonic period.

Introduction

During human development, both external and internal morphological features change dramatically. External features, including those on the main body, provide a good basis for determining the staging of each developing embryo. For example, flexion and extension of the main body combined with the posture of the upper and lower extremities have been integrated into the Carnegie stage (CS), which is universally accepted for determining the staging of human embryos [1]. Though such qualitative external changes are well described in the literature, three-dimensional (3-D) quantitative changes in the main body have not been well analyzed. The application of 3-D sonography with high-frequency transvaginal transducers has expanded and now fosters 3D sonoembryology, which provides a basis for assessing normal human development and can also be useful in detecting developmental anomalies [2,3]. Thus, such technology could contribute to more accurate prenatal diagnoses, as well as enable a shift in the diagnostic time window (from the second to the first trimester). Under these circumstances, the quantitative data of standard morphology for each CS is required for evaluations of the rib cage in clinically obtained data, to allow for better prenatal morphological diagnosis.

The rib cage mainly consists of 12 pairs of ribs and vertebrae as well as the hypaxial muscles on the chest and upper abdominal parts of the main body. In the early embryonic period until CS16, all visceral organs, such as the heart, lung, liver, and digestive tract are covered with soft tissue. However, these organs are not protected by the rib cage because no cartilage or muscle formation is observed until CS16 [1,4]. Such organs are covered by the rib cage until the end of the embryonic period. During this time, the cartilage will form, the ribs will elongate, and the hypaxial muscles will differentiate. The rib cage can be divided anatomically and functionally into the upper and lower thoracic regions. The 1st to 7th pairs of ribs, which are identified as true ribs, are attached to the sternum in the anterior parts, while the 8th to 12th pairs of ribs are false, or floating, ribs. The upper region is related to the pulmonary part of the respiratory system and the upper limbs while the lower thorax is anatomically related to the diaphragmatic part of the respiratory system, and also closer to the abdominal cavity and locomotor apparatus [5-7].

Fig. 1. Flow chart of the present study

Development and differentiation procedures are not fully documented; these procedures at each CS are less documented. We have recently reported on human embryonic development with 3-D reconstructions using digital imaging data techniques such as MRI, phase contrast X-ray CT (PXCT), and digitized histological images [8]. The 3-D digital data demonstrated dramatic growth during the embryonic period at each CS. Such 3-D data are advantageous in that they allow precise reconstruction of each organ and acquire the anatomical landmarks with 3-D coordinates. This enables a potential understanding of the 3-D development and differential growth of each anatomical landmark by the movement of the 3-D coordinate. In the present study, the rib cage, including the ribs and vertebrae, were analyzed during the embryonic period using the 84 3-D coordinates/samples assigned. In addition to the basic analysis of morphology and morphometry, principle component analysis (PCA) was also conducted for all rib pairs.

Materials and Methods

Human Embryo Specimens

This study was approved by The Committee of Medical Ethics of Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan (E986, R0316, R0989). Approximately 44,000 human embryos comprising the Kyoto Collection are stored at the Congenital Anomaly Research Center of Kyoto University [9-11]. In most cases, pregnancy was terminated during the first trimester for socioeconomic reasons under the Maternity Protection Law of Japan. Some of the specimens (approximately 20%) were undamaged, well-preserved embryos. Aborted embryos brought to the laboratory were measured, examined, and staged using criteria established by O’Rahilly and Müller (1987). A total of 34 human embryos were selected between CS17 and CS23 and exhibited no obvious damage or anomalies.

Image Acquisition and Data Analysis

PXCT was used for 28 samples. The 3-D PXCT image acquisition conditions are fully described by Yoneyama et al. [12, 13] Briefly, specimens were visualized with a phase-contrast imaging system fitted with a crystal X-ray interferometer. The system was set up at the vertical wiggler beam line (PF BL14C) of the Photon Factory in Tsukuba, Japan. MRI was used for six samples at CS22 and CS23. MR images were acquired using a 7-Tesla MR system (BioSpec 70/20 USR; Bruker Biospin MRI GmbH, Ettlingen, Germany) with a 35 mm-diameter 1H quadrature transmit-receive volume coil (T9988; Bruker Biospin MRI GmbH). PCXT and MRI data from selected embryos were analyzed precisely as serial 2-D and reconstructed 3-D images (Figure 1). The structures of the rib cage were reconstructed in all samples using Amira software (version 5.5; Visage Imaging, Berlin, Germany). The 3-D coordinates were initially assigned by examining the voxel position on 3-D images using Amira software. Seven rib cage landmarks, from the first to twelfth vertebra, and the ribs (for a total of 84 landmarks) were located for each sample, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 2. Cross sections (1st, 5th, 7th, and 10th pairs of ribs) using PXCT Li; liver, LV; left ventricle, St; stomach, *; Main bronchi
Figure 3. Representative drawing of the five transverse sections (1st, 5th, 7th, 10th, and 12th pairs of ribs) between CS17 and CS23. Each pair of ribs was represented by connection of seven landmarks except CS17, which was represented by five landmarks.

Orthogonal axis and coordinate transformation

Representative drawings at each stage were calculated using software-assisted (MATLAB R2017b, MathWorks, USA) algorithms that were based on orthogonal coordinates of voxels in each reference point. The landmarks from all samples were spatially standardized by parallel and rotational transition without any magnifications. The coordinate of the 7th thoracic vertebra (M(7)) was defined as the origin. The z-axis was determined by the fitted line of the 12 landmarks on the center of the thoracic vertebrae (M(1) to M(12)). The transverse axis was defined as the X-axis, while the antero-posterior axis was defined as the Y-axis. The definition of the 84 landmarks, 3 axes, and morphometry for length, volume, and angle measurement are summarized in Table 1.

Procrustes analysis and Principle components analysis

Drawing of 12 pairs of ribs and thoracic cage from each sample, was analysed individually. Namely a total of 384 sample data was subjected to generalized Procrustes analysis (GPA) and principle component analysis (PCA), which was calculated using software-MATLAB (R2017b, MathWorks, USA) assisted algorithms based on orthogonal coordinate of voxels in each reference point.

Standardized morphological ribs were calculated from all 348 pared of ribs. Procrustes analysis was applied to ensure that the landmark coordinates were translated, scaled, and rotated to the best superimposition. Value of each paired of rib was divided into the component of the size and the shape. The size of each specimen was represented as centroid size, which was calculated as the square root of the sum of squared distances from the centroid to each landmark. The resulting landmark coordinates were called Procrustes shape coordinates. To summarize the variations in the paired ribs, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed for the Procrustes shape coordinates.

Results

A. Transverse section with PXCT
Figure 4. Morphometry of thoracic cage by cranial view.
(A)  The dorsal convex of each rib pair from the 1st pair to the 12th pair, estimated by∠Cx (in degrees). ∠Cx > 0 mean that he ribs is outwardly convexed and dorsal to the vertebral column. Illustration indicating the ∠Cx provided in the right. Light blue; CS19, Yellow; CS21, Orange; CS22, Red; CS23 (B)  Ratio of depth to width of each paired rib from the 1st pair to the 12th. Blue; CS17, Light blue; CS19, Yellow; CS21, Red; CS23
Figure 5. Drawings of the rib cage between CS17 and CS23. The rib cage was represented by the connection of 84 landmarks. The scale indicates 2.0 mm. Arrows indicate the largest width of rib cage. *,**: The tips of each pair of ribs from the 1st pair to the 7th became close to each other at the median plane (xy-plane) as if closing a zipper from the cranial end to the caudal end, between CS21 and CS23.

Transverse sections of the chest and abdomen were observed at the level of each pair of ribs; each rib pair and vertebra was observed at the dorsal side during CS17. The cage elongated and surrounded the main chest and upper abdominal organs. All 12 thoracic vertebrae and paired ribs were made of cartilage, and no ossification was observed until CS23. At first, the main organs exhibited a change in location and these observations are recorded in Figure 2. These organs descend caudally during development. The left ventricle of the heart was observed in a cross section around the level of the 1st pair of ribs at CS 17, around the level of the 5th pair of ribs at CS19, and around the level of the 7th pair of ribs between CS21 and CS23. The main bronchi were observed by cross section around the level of the 1st pair of ribs at CS17, around the level of the 3rd pair of ribs at CS19, and around the level of the 5th pair of ribs between CS21 and CS23. The liver was observed at cross section around the level of the 5th- 7th pairs of ribs at CS 17, around the level of the 7th -10th pairs of ribs at CS19, and around the level of the 10th pair of ribs to the abdominal part between CS21 and CS23. The stomach was observed at cross section around the level of the 7th pair of ribs at CS17, the level of the 10th pair of ribs at CS19, and the level of the 11th pair of ribs between CS21 and CS23.

B. Formation of each paired ribs (cranial view)

We illustrated each pair of ribs and vertebrae with the connection of five landmarks at CS17 and seven landmarks between CS18 and CS23 to observe rib formation during development. L3(n) and R3(n) was not indicated because the erector spinae muscle was still not detectable at CS17. The morphology of all transverse sections is similar at CS17 (Figure 3). Pairs of almost linear ribs and thoracic vertebrae surrounded the dorsal side of the rib cage at CS17. The sections became trapezoidal in shape; the sections at the 11th and 12th rib, however, were not. The differences between the morphology of the ribs in the upper and lower regions become prominent at around CS20. The ribs were curved and the tip elongated medially, forming an arch after CS20 in the upper regions. The tips of each paired rib became closed to each other, as they were joined with the sternum. At the same time, the tips of the ribs elongated almost antero-laterally in the lower region.

The ribs became outwardly convex and dorsal to the vertebral column between the first and tenth ribs at CS23 (Figure 4A). The local maximum was observed between the third and fifth ribs (7.56 ± 3.38 degree at the 3rd rib, 6.81 ± 1.74 degree at the 4th rib, and 7.55 ± 2.10 degree at the 5th rib). 

The transverse sections of the upper rib cage became pentagonal as the medial part of the chest expanded. The depth/width ratio increased to almost 1.0 in the upper region of the rib cage at CS20 and CS21 (range between 1-7th ribs was 0.87 – 0.99 at CS20 and 0.89 – 0.95 at CS21) (Figure 4B). This range slightly decreased at CS23 (range between 1-7th ribs was 0.73 – 0.80). Cartilaginous structures, including the ribs, vertebrae, and future sternum, surrounded the upper part of rib cage. The depth/width ratio was lower in the lower regions of the rib cage.

Figure 6. Morphometry of the rib cage by ventral view.
(A) Height, width, and depth of the rib cage, based on CS. Each parameter was measured as described in Materials and Methods. (B) Width of each paired rib from first to 12th. (C) Inter-tip distance of each pair of ribs between CS17 and CS23 (D) Trajectory of the tip of the right ribs (1st, 5th, 7th, 10th, and 12th pairs) x,y coordinates from all samples were plotted on the x,y plane. The points were indicated by color, according to the CS, as follows: Blue; CS17, Light blue; CS19, Yellow; CS21, Red; CS23 The gray line and dots indicate the average form of each pair of ribs obtained from samples between CS18 and CS23.
Figure 7. Left lateral drawings of the rib cage between CS17 and CS23. The rib cage was represented by the connection of 84 landmarks. The scale represents 2.0 mm. The black arrows indicate the largest depth of rib cage. The ribs in the upper region elongated to gather to the 7th ribs, while the ribs in the lower region separated caudally (blue arrows).
C. Formation of the rib cage (ventral view)

The connection of the 84 landmarks determined on 12 pairs of ribs and vertebrae revealed the average form of the rib cage at each stage between CS17 and CS23 (Figure 5). The rib cage changed its form during the observation period. The rib cage size increased in height, width, and depth ( Figure 6A). The depth of the cage was smaller than the width and height at CS17-19.

Differentiation between the upper and lower parts of the rib cage became prominent after CS20 and two notable features were observed – the shift of the position of the largest width of the rib cage and the formation of ribs in the upper part of the rib cage. These two features have also been detected in transverse sections, and this was made clear through the ventral view.

One prominent feature was the shift of the position of the largest width of the rib cage (Figure 6B). The largest width of the rib cage was at the upper part of the cage, and ran caudally to the lower rib cage during observation periods, namely at the level of the 5th pair of ribs at CS17 (2.81 ± 0.35 mm), the 6th pair of ribs at CS18 (3.79 ± 0.72 mm), the 7th pair of ribs at CS19 (4.21 ± 0.80 mm), the 8th pair of ribs at CS20-CS22 ribs (4.68 ± 0.43 mm, 5.56 ± 0.33 mm, and 6.74 ± 0.53 mm, respectively), and the 9th pair of ribs at CS23 (8.24 ± 0.96 mm). These changes were detected by the ventral view. In addition, morphometry demonstrated the width of each paired rib from the 1st to the 12th pair.

Another is the formation of the upper rib cage, which is associated with the formation of the sternum and joining between the sternum and the rib cage. The tips of each pair of ribs from the 1st to the 7th rib became close to each other at the median plane (xy-plane), resembling the closing of a zipper from the cranial end to the caudal end between CS21 and CS23. Such movement was clearly detected by ventral images (Figure 5).

Morphometry measuring the length between the tips of each pairs of ribs (Figure 6C) and the trajectory of the tips of the ribs (Figure 6D) supported this phenomenon for upper rib cage formation. Specifically, measuring the lengths between the tips of all paired ribs showed that the tips of the paired ribs were separated by approximately 2-4 mm between CS17 and CS19 (range, 2.02 mm – 4.14 mm) for all 12 pairs of ribs. The length between the tips of the paired-ribs decreased in the upper ribs, while increasing in the lower ribs during development (Figure 6C). Therefore, formation of the lower ribs was different when compared to the formation of the upper ribs. After CS20, the paired ribs became closed, reaching a distance of approximately 1.0 mm from the 1st pair of ribs to the 7th at CS23 (range, 0.53 mm – 1.16 mm). The sternum may form between the tips of the first pair of ribs to the 7th pair. The trajectory of the tips of the ribs revealed that the tip elongated latero-ventrally between CS17 and CS18, and medial-ventrally after CS19 in the upper part of ribs (Figure 6D). The direction changed to ventral after the inter-tip closed ventrally. The 1st pair of ribs changed direction at CS21, the 2nd to 6th pairs of ribs changed around CS22, and the 7th pair of ribs changed at CS23.

Fig. 8. Morphometry of the rib cage by lateral view.
(A) Depth (in mm) of each paired rib by lateral view.
(B) Curvature of the rib cage (in degrees) according to Carnegie stage.
(C) The angle (in degrees) of each rib to vertebrae by lateral view.
(D) The angle of each rib in relation to the y-axis (ventral-dorsal axis).
Blue; CS17, Light blue; CS19, Yellow; CS21, Red; CS23                       
Illustrations indicating the ∠Tv, ∠Ve, and ∠Y provided on the right side.
D. Formation of the rib cage (Lateral view)

The depth of the rib cage was similar at the level of the 1st and 7th pairs of ribs (ranging from 1.68 mm – 2.81 mm) with the largest depth at the 3rd pair of ribs, during CS17 (Figure 7). Swelling of the rib cage was detected after CS20, with a prominent local maximum in the middle. The largest depth of the rib cage was at the level of the 7th pair of ribs at CS20 and CS21 (4.03 ± 0.42 mm and 4.87 ± 0.25 mm, respectively) and at the level of the 8th pair of ribs at CS22 and CS23 (5.30 ± 0.28 mm and 6.34 ± 0.96 mm, respectively)(Figure 8A).

The degree of curvature of the thoracic vertebrae was similar for CS17 through CS19; specifically, the measures of curvature were as follows: 20.3 ± 6.2 degrees at CS17, 22.0 ± 8.8 degrees at CS18, and 21.3 ± 4.3 degrees at CS19 (Figure 8B). The curvature was more prominent after CS20, 30.7 ± 5.9 degrees at CS20, increasing to 38.1 ± 6.6 degrees by CS23.

The angle of rib elongation from each vertebra was calculated by lateral view (Figure 8C). The ribs elongated caudally at CS17. The degree of rib elongation was lower in the lower region of the rib cage (range, -9.59 – -19.91 degrees) than in the upper region (range, -4.48 – -9.59 degrees). The direction of elongation changed during development; that is, the ribs elongated in the cranial direction in the upper region while elongating in the caudal direction in the lower region. The direction of elongation changed almost linearly, from 12.3 ± 14.3 degrees at the 1st rib to -35.6 ± 10.4 degrees at the 12th rib at CS23. 

Since the curvature of the thoracic vertebrae affects the orientation of each rib forming the rib cage, the angle of each rib in relation to the y-axis (ventral-dorsal axis) was calculated (Figure 8D). During CS17, the angle increased from -14.2 degrees at the 1st rib to 1.2 degrees at 12th rib. The orientation changed during development. Even though all ribs elongated in the caudal direction, the local maximum was observed in the middle region of the rib cage. The local maximum was between the 4th pair of ribs at CS19 (-5.4 ± 5.3 degrees), between the 5th pair of ribs at CS21 (-0.4 ± 3.8 degrees), and between the 8th pair of ribs at CS23 (-5.0 ± 5.8 degrees). The data indicate that the ribs in the upper region elongate to gather towards the local maximum (around the 7th pair of ribs), while the ribs in the lower region separate caudally.

Fig.9 Changes of ribs based on PC 1 and PC 2 are shown.
E. Shape of the ribs; Principle component analysis

GPA and PCA was applied to all ribs except CS17. PC1and PC2 accounted for 76.3% and 16.4% (sum, 92.7%) of the total variance. PCA-3 account for 2.7%, which was smaller compared to the PC1 and PC2. That mean that the change of shape is accounted by two component. Change of PC1 and PC2 reflect the shape as shown in Figure 9. Change in PC1 shows the circular form surrounding the body trunk. Decrease of PC1 showed the closing of the tip of ribs, while increase of the PC1 showed the aperture of the tip of the ribs. Change in PC2 showed the dorsal convex of the ribs. Increase of PC2 showed the dorsal convex of the ribs while decrease of the PC2 showed the lateral projection at the middle part of the ribs.

Value of PC1 and PC2 by each rib was scatter plotted (Figure 10). The distribution showed the fishing needle like shape. Change in PC1 and PC2 were highly correlated. When the distribution was fit the equisition from quadratic to 7-order equation, R2 change to from 0.729 to 0.828. Increase of R2 was gentle between quartic equation and 7-order equation. Thus distribution was fitted to quartic equation as follows; y = 0.072×4 + 0.1535×3 + 0.1785×2 – 0.2976x – 0.7001; R² = 0.82.

Fig.10 Scatter plot of PC1 and PC2 values by each rib
The shape at which PC1 and PC2 value was plotted by the red circle was shown. The shape at which PC1 and PC2 value was plotted by the green circle was shown.
Fig.11 PC1 and PC2 plots by each ribs according to the development from CS 18 to CS 23.

PC1 and PC2 plots of each rib moved its position along to the fitting curve according to the development from CS 18 to CS 23 (Figure 11).The scattered plots moved by wide range from ceter-right (quadrant IV) to left, reached to the left end (quadrant II) of the fitting curve and slightly back in the upper ribs (1-7). While scattered plots moved by narrower range from the center-right to central parts ((quadrant IV)in the lower ribs. The movement was limited at right part (quadrant I) in 11th and 12th ribs.

F Shape and centroid size correlation

PC1 and PC2 Value of each rib was plotted closed to the fitting curve by which the shape may be determined by one parameter.

High Correlation between PC1 and PC2 imply that the change in PC1 and PC2 could be expressed by one parameter. We used the fitting curve as linear scale for Shape [Shape]. Namely, the right end of the fitting curve (2.0,1.8) was determined as origin O of [Shape] while the left end of the curve (-2.3, 1.0) was 6.6. PC1 and PC2 plot by rib x can determine the nearest points X on the fitting curve. The distance XO along the fitting curve was defined the value of rib x for [Shape].

[Shape]=0.15 showed that the paired ribs are dorsal side of the body trunk with aperture of the tip of the ribs (Figure 12). [Shape]=2 showed that the paired ribs surrounded dorsal side of the body trunk with dorsal convex of the ribs. The tip of the ribs were aparted. [Shape]=4 showed that the paired ribs are the circular form surrounded more than half of the body trunk with the lateral projection at the middle part of the ribs. [Shape]=6 showed that the paired ribs are the circular form surrounding almost all the body trunk with dorsal convex of the ribs The tip of bilateral ribs are almost closed.

The relation between centroid size and the shape according to development was shown. The change in shape was prominent according to the CS in the upper ribs (1-7). It is noted that while change in centroid size was inconspicuous in the upper ribs (1-7) though the length of each rib elongate linearly. While the increase in size was prominent and change in shape was inconspicuous in the lower ribs (8-12).

Fig 12 Change in [Shape] and centroid size by each rib pair acoording to Carnegie stage

The line for each rib according to CS was changed gradually according to the change of from upper to lower ribs.

Discussion

PC1and PC2 accounted for 76.3% and 16.4% (sum, 92.7%) of the total variance, that mean that the change of shape is mainly documented by two component. Change in PC1 shows the circular form surrounding the body trunk. Decrease of PC1 showed the closing of the tip of ribs, while increase of the PC1 showed the aperture of the tip of the ribs. Change in PC2 showed the dorsal convex of the ribs. Increase of PC2 showed the dorsal convex of the ribs while decrease of the PC2 showed the lateral projection at the middle part of the ribs.

            Distribution of PC1 and PC2 value by each rib showed high correlation with fitted to quartic equation (y = 0.072×4 + 0.1535×3 + 0.1785×2 – 0.2976x – 0.7001; R² = 0.820). PC1 and PC2 value of each rib pair moved its position along to the fitting curve according to the development from CS 18 to CS 23. The change in PC1 and PC2 could be expressed by one parameter using fitting curve as linear scale for Shape, indicating that all 12 paired ribs differentiate its shape according to a common sequential changes during human embryonic period.

Figure 13 a parsimonious model, that the common series of rib pairs can be controlled by a small number of factors

The data suggested, in a parsimonious model, that the common series of rib pairs can be controlled by a small number of factors (Figure 13). For example, the difference between true ribs, false ribs, and floating ribs observed in the rib cage could arise through the timing of when and where the common series of rib pair formation stopped differentiating.

Conclusion

The change in PC1 and PC2 could be expressed by one parameter using fitting curve as linear scale for Shape, indicating that all 12 paired ribs differentiate its shape according to a common sequential changes during human embryonic period.

Acknowledgment

We thank to Dr.Atsushi Saito and Prof. Akinobu Shimizu at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology for providing the Matlab software program for PCA. We thank to Dr. Shigehito Yamada and Dr. Koichi Ishizu for intense arguments. This work has been performed under the approval of the Photon Factory Program Advisory Committee (Proposal No.2013G514, 2012G138, 2014G018, 2015G574, 2016G171, and 2017G688).

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Three-dimensional Analysis of the Bronchial Branching in Human Embryonic Stages

Abstract—Normal branching patterns of the bronchi in in humans is unclear. The data in the last year indicate that the algorithms for determining the branching pattern of the bronchi are not exactly same between human and mice in the embryonic stages observed. It is possible that different algorithms and branching patterns may arise in the later stages of development. Therefore, we intend to obtain a three-dimensional coordinate on all branching points and subject this to mathematical analysis. A total of 33 samples between Carnegie Stages (CS) 14 and 21, belonging to Kyoto University Congenital Anomaly Research Center were used to acquire imaging data using the phase-contrast X-ray CT. The bronchi were extracted from the image data using the software Amira, and all bifurcations in each sample were named and 3D coordiane was provided. Morphometry was calculated using software assisted algorithms based on orthogonal coordinate of voxels in each reference point. We mainly analyse byhighlighting the angles of each branching.

Introduction

Fig. 1. 3D reconstruction by using PXCT image

A) Representative PXCT image (transverse section) at CS21 embryo (ID. 21120). Thebronchi were manually segmented (purple). H; heart, L; liver
B) 3D reconstruction of bronchial tree (Purple). Cranial lateral, and frontal view were shown.
C) The center of the airline was shown linearly with the centerline module (left). Each branch was rainbow colorred according to the generation number of branches (right).

Classical morphological studies during the human embryonic period were previously analyzed with serial histological sections and visualized with 3D modeling and illustrations [1]. These methods were laborious and provided inaccurate 3D morphology. We have recently reported on human embryonic development with 3D reconstructions using digital imaging data such as MRI, phase contrast X-ray CT (PXCT) and digitized histological image. These data demonstrated dramatic growth during the embryonic period at each Carnegie stage (CS).

Many organs are composed of highly ramified tubular networks, each with a distinct architecture tailored to its physiological function. The bronchial tree of the human lung has more than one hundred thousand conducting and ten million respiratory airways arrayed in an intricate pattern crucial for oxygen flow. How such trees are generated during development, and how the developmental patterning information is encoded, have long fascinated biologists and mathematicians. However, models have been limited by a lack of information on the normal sequence and pattern of branching events.

Metzger et al. (2008)[1] demonstrated in mice that the tree is generated by three geometrically simple local modes of branching used in three different orders throughout the lung. We reconstructed the three-dimensional branching pattern and lineage of the human bronchial tree from an analysis of digital imaging data of PXCT during embryonic period. We compare the bronchial tree of human with that of mice, and test whether the modes of branching are analogous with the human bronchial tree. The data indicate that the algorithms for determining the branching pattern of the bronchi are not exactly same between human and mice in the embryonic stages observed. The possibility exists that different algorithms and branching patterns may arise in the later stages of development. We intend to obtain a 3D coordinate on all branching points and subject this to computational and mathematical analysis in the second year. The purpose of the present study was to analyze the 3D branching pattern of the bronchial tree during human embryonic development and determine the rule of the branching pattern. We mainly analyse by highlighting the angles of each branching.

Materials and Methods

Fig. 2. Definition of the angle calculated in the present study
Human Embryo Specimens

This study was approved by The Committee of Medical Ethics of Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan (E986). Approximately 44,000 human embryos comprising the Kyoto Collection are stored at the Congenital Anomaly Research Center of Kyoto University [2]-[4]. In most cases, pregnancy was terminated during the first trimester for socioeconomic reasons under the Maternity Protection Law of Japan. Some of the specimens (approximately 20%) were undamaged, well-preserved embryos. Aborted embryos brought to the laboratory were measured and examined, then staged by using the criteria of O’Rahilly and Müller (1987)[5]. A total of 33 human embryos were selected between CS14 and CS22 that exhibited no obvious damage or anomalies.

Fig. 3. Branching morphogenesis of the human bronchial tree between CS13 and CS22.
Fig. 4. Number of maximum generation of the branching according to the Carnegie stage
Image Acquisition and Data Analysis

The 3D PXCT image acquisition conditions are described elsewhere [6]. Briefly, specimens were visualized with a phase-contrast imaging system fitted with a crystal X-ray interferometer. The system was set up at the vertical wiggler beam line (PF BL14C) of the Photon Factory in Tsukuba, Japan. PCXT data from selected embryos were analyzed precisely as serial 2D and reconstructed 3D images (Fig.1). The structure of the bronchial tree was reconstructed in all samples using Amira software version 5.4.5 (Visage Imaging; Berlin, Germany). The center of the airway was linearly shown with the centerline module. Morphometry and Statistic analysis was calculated using software (MATLAB (ver.R2016a, MathWorks, USA) assisted algorithms based on orthogonal coordinate of voxels in each reference point.

The proximal part of the interested bifurcation was called as parental branch (PBr), while peripheral parts of branches was called as child branches (CBrs). Refraction angle (∠a) was defined as the angle between PBr and the plane including the CBrs. Departure angle of bilateral CBr (∠b) was defined as the angle between two CBrs. Departure angle of the each CBr (∠b1 and ∠b2) was defined as the angles between the PBr and CBrs.Symmetry Index (SI) was defied as ∠b2 –∠ b1, which is the indicator of symmetricity. SI =0 means that a pair of CBrs separate symmetrically (as mirror image).

Fig. 5. Distribution of refraction angle
Fig. 6.  Distribution of and separation angle

Results

Morphology of the bronchial tree

The Three-dimensional reconstruction revealed the precise morphology of the bronchial tree at each CS (Fig.3). The right and left main trunks were bifurcated from the trachea at CS 13. The right main bronchus soon shows a tendency to be longer and directed caudally, with the left bronchus being shorter and more transverse. Lobar buds are developing and are becoming marked by focal swellings at the sites of the future secondary bronchi at CS 15. The primary bronchi have definite, elongating branches at CS16. Additionally, at CS16, the right and left primary bronchi exhibit characteristic asymmetries. Each ends in a bulbous terminal growth center, and along the sides each demonstrates a characteristic type of elongating lateral branches. One can more easily recognize the groupings that will make up the three lobes on the right side and the two on the left side at CS17. Segmental buds represent the bronchopulmonary segments. The segmental bronchi are well defined and a few sub-segmental buds appear at CS18. The bronchi branch accurately and rapidly after CS19. Branching occurs more rapidly in the lower lobe than in the upper lobe. More than 12 branches were observed in the lower lobe at CS22.

Fig. 7.  Distribution of the branch with which SI is less than 10, 20, and 30 degree.
Fig. 8.  2D distribution color map showing the combination of separation angles (∠b1 and ∠b2) for all branchings in a representative samples.

Branching occurs more rapidly in the lower lobe than in the upper lobe (Fig.4). Number of maximaum generation of the branching was large in right lower lobule, left lower lobule, left upper lobe, right upper lobe, then right middle lobule in the order, when lobular branch is defined as first branch.

Mathematical analysis of the bronchial tree

Distribution of refraction angle (∠a) between CS19 and 22 was calculated (Fig.5). Refraction angle distributed between 0 and 60 degree in almost all branches analysed. Median refraction angle was almost constant during CS19 and CS22 (median; 10.9-14.4 degree).

Distribution of separation angle (∠b) between CS19 and 22 was calculated (Fig.6). Separation angle distributed between 40 and 140 degree in almost all branches analysed. Median separation angle was almost constant during CS19 and CS22 (median; 95.3-97.0 degree).

To examine whether two child branches separate symmetrically or not, Symmetry index (SI) was calculated. The branches separated symmetrically was relatively few, SI < ∠30 degree was about 10% of total branches observed (Fig.7) Relationship between two separation angles (∠b1 and ∠b2) in each branch were analysed (Fig.8). The 2D distribution color map indicate that two different groups may exist. One group distribute near the broken line (∠b1=∠b2), namely two child branches separate almost symmetrically. Another group was that one child branch (∠b1) separate as 15°<∠b1< 30°while another child branch  (∠b2) separate as 75°<∠b2< 90°. Two groups relatively well separated in CS19, which become ambiguous in later stages.

Conclusion

We intend to continue computational, mathematical, and cluster analysis in the next year. For the analysis, we will collaborate with other research groups in A01 and others.

Acknowledgment

This work has been performed under the approval of the Photon Factory Program Advisory Committee (Proposal No.2013G514, 2012G138, 2014G018, and 2015G574).

References
[1] Metzger RJ et al, The branching program of mouse lung development. Nature 453, 745-751, 2008.

[2] Nishimura H, Takano K, Tanimura T, et al. Normal and abnormal development of human embryos: first report of the analysis of 1,213 intact embryos. Teratology 1968; 1:281–90.

[3] Shiota K, Yamada S, Nakatsu-Komatsu T, et al. Visualization of human prenatal development by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Am J Med Genet A 2007; 143A:3121–6.

[4] Yamada S, Uwabe C, Fujii S, Shiota K. 2004. Phenotypic variability in human embryonic holoprosencephaly in the Kyoto Collection. Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol 70:495–508.

[5] O’Rahilly R, Müller F. Developmental stages in human embryos: including a revision of Streeter’s Horizons and a survey of the Carnegie Collection. Washington, D.C.: Carnegie Institution of Washington, 1987.

[6] Yoneyama A, Yamada S, Takeda T. 2011. Fine biomedical imaging using X-ray phase-sensitive technique. In: Gargiulo G, editor. Advanced biomedical engineering, Vol.1. Rijeka: InTech. p. 107–128.

Two cases of liver agenesis detected in externally normal human embryos: A novel abnormality resulting in abortion during the embryonic period

Introduction

Abortion is the termination of pregnancy by the removal or expulsion of a fetus or embryo from the uterus, prior to viability. An abortion that occurs spontaneously is usually called a miscarriage. Most spontaneous embryonic abortions occur during the first 3 weeks [1]. It is generally thought that 15–20% of verified pregnancies that have survived the first 4 weeks post-ovulation are lost through spontaneous abortion. A high incidence of spontaneous abortion of fetuses with neural tube defects, cleft lip, and cleft palate has been noted among malformed embryos, and many other external malformations may be involved in abortions [1,2]. However, the cause of abortion of normal conceptuses remains unknown, mainly due to the following issues: the difficulty in obtaining appropriate sample materials, and the small size of the embryos that makes analyses to find the internal abnormality difficult. The crown-rump length of an embryo is a maximum of 30 mm during the embryonic period by Carnegie stage (CS) 23 (about 56-60 days after fertilization) [3].

In the present report, two cases of liver agenesis were detected using phase-contrast X-ray computed tomography (PCT), and described in detail [4]. This novel abnormality could seriously disrupt embryonic development, and, as a result, may have led to early miscarriage. The causes of intrauterine death in externally normal embryos have not previously been elucidated, and the present report is a first step in that direction.

Figure 2: Phase-contrast X-ray computed tomography (PCT) transverse sections from Case 1, and a normal control for comparison. The sectional levels (at Th4, Th6, Th9, and L1) are indicated in each panel.
No liver (Li) was detected in the serial plane sections, while the stomach (St) was observed in the midsagittal transverse sections at Th4. The diaphragm (△) was noted in these sections. The duodenum (Du) was located on the right ventral side of the abdomen, while the pancreas (▼) had deviated to the ventral side in the Th6 transverse section. Umbilical vein and ductus venosus was not shown in this Figure.
Lung (Lu), esophagus (Es), adrenal gland (Ad), intestine (In), metanephros (Mt), liver (Li), portal veins (▲), and hepatic veins (▲).
 

Material and Methods

Images of three embryos at CS 21 were acquired using PCT imaging. The embryos werecollected and stored at the Congenital Anomaly Research Center of Kyoto University [5]. All three embryos were obtained by induced abortion (Table 1). The sizes and gestational ages were within the normal range. No clinical finding that may have caused an abnormality (i.e. alcohol, tobacco, drugs, etc) was observed. Obvious damage to, or anomalies of the external forms were not present. The embryo body axes were maintained in the original form, i.e. not artificially deformed during fixation and preservation. Therefore, the samples were judged to be suitable for internal structural analysis. The three-dimensional (3-D) PCT images of the human embryos were acquired using a radiographic imaging system (BL14-C, 17.8 Kev) from Photon Factory, Institute of Materials Structure Science, High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK, Tsukuba, Japan). The data provide a resolution of ≥ 18 µm/pixel. This technique enables a highly sensitive measurement, approximately > 1000 times more sensitive than the conventional radiographic method using absorption contrast. The mechanism and conditions used to acquire the PCT images of the embryos have been described elsewhere [4]. The 3-D images included images of the intrathoracic, retroperitoneal, and intra-abdominal organs, reconstructed using Amira software (ver. 5.4.5, Visage Imaging, Berlin, Germany).

Fig.3:
Left anterior oblique view of the three-dimensional PCT reconstruction of Case 1, demonstrating the locations of all intra-thoracic, retroperitoneal, and intraabdominal organs.
 
The findings of note were as follows: agenesis of the liver; the stomach (St) was deviated ventrally and cranially; the pancreas (Pa) was deviated ventrally; and the right mesonephros (Ms) and genital ridge (Ge) were absent.
Lung (Lu), adrenal gland (Ad), metanephros (Mt), and heart (He). 
The scale bar in the reconstructed image indicates 1 mm.

Results and discussion

The liver at CS21 usually occupies a large space in the abdominal cavity, which has a smooth surface due to the contact between the cranial surface and the diaphragm, and between the ventral surface and the abdominal wall [6]. The PCT image resolution was high enough to observe not only the morphological structure of the internal organs but also the internal structure of the liver.

   A PCT plane section showed the main structures of the vascular systems, such as the umbilical vein, ductus venosus, hepatic veins, portal vein, and their branches, in a control case (Figure 1). In the two abnormal cases, the liver was not detected in any of the serial plane sections. In Case 1 (ID 28153), the stomach was observed on the midsagittal line in the Th4 transverse sections, indicating that the stomach had deviated cranially and ventrally. The diaphragm was apparent in these sections. The duodenum was located in the right ventral part of the abdomen, and the pancreas deviated ventrally in the Th6 transverse section. Similar abnormalities were detected in Case 2 (ID 31874), which also had no detectable liver (data not shown). 

The locations of all intrathoracic, retroperitoneal, and intra-abdominal organs were reconstructed in three dimensions, as shown in Figure 2. The liver, which usually occupied a large space, was not detectable at all. The right genital ridge and mesonephros were not present. 

Fig.4; The 3-D reconstructed images (anterior view) of the stomach (St), duodenum (Du), and pancreas (Pa), demonstratingtheir anatomical relationships in Case 1 and in a normal control.  The scale bar in the reconstructed image indicates 1 mm.

   The absence of the liver in Case 1 had affected the locations of the other internal organs, especially the stomach, duodenum, and pancreas (Figure 3). The stomach was rotated. The pyloric antrum was straight, and ran vertically in the right ventral quadrant. Notably, the relative positions of the cardia and pylorus were not affected. The pancreas originated from the duodenum, and its tail had deviated ventrally. Similar complications were detected in Case 2 (data not shown).

   The liver plays an important role in the development of functional organs [6,7]. The liver becomes a hematopoietic organ after 6 weeks, and, during the fetal period, begins to metabolize biochemical materials important for development, such as albumin, bile, glycogen, and fetus-specific proteins [8]. Therefore, liver agenesis may be lethal to development.

   The present study demonstrates that PCT may be considered a powerful tool for visualization of internal structures of embryos, and for detection of novel abnormalities during the embryonic period, without the need for histological analysis. The non-invasive and non-destructive properties of the technique are important for analysis of scarce specimens, such as human embryos. The application of the present method will contribute to advancing the field of fetal diagnosis and developmental anatomy.

References

1. O’rahilly R, Müller F. Human embryology & teratology. 92 (2001)

2. Shiota K. Congenital Anomalies, 31, 67 (1991)

3. O’Rahilly R, Müller F. Developmental stages in human embryos: including a revision of Streeter’s” horizons” and a survey of the Carnegie Collection, (1987)

4. Yoneyama A, Yamada S, Takeda T. Advanced Biomedical Engineering, 107(2011)

5. Nishimura H, et al. Teratology, 1,281(1968)

6. Hirose A, et al. Anat Rec, 295, 51(2012)

7. Lemaigre FP. Gastroenterology, 137, 62(2009)

8. Tavian M, Hallais M, Péault B. Development, 126, 793(1999)

Rationale for imaging the human stomach during development.

Anatomical Records 297巻5月号表紙

“Morphogenesis and three-dimensional movement of the stomach during the human embryonic period” by Kaigai and colleagues were selected first article of the AR WOW – Video Articles in 2012.

First among the reasons is the intriguing topic: our development during the embryonic period. Learning about ourselves captivates imagination, the more so when the mysteries of human development in utero are revealed. What a wondrous topic to launch AR’s publication innovation. Another reason that we selected this paper is because embryology is an important topic for The Anatomical Record.

We mentioned our rationale for imaging the human stomach during development as following letter.

“All of the authors are well-versed with the fact that the stomach develops as the local widening of the foregut at Carnegie Stage (CS) 13, as well as the morphology and position of the stomach in adults. But what are the developmental dynamics from the former to the latter? While I (Dr. Takakuwa) was a university student, I read a textbook that explained that the developmental dynamics of the stomach follow the order of linear movement along the caudal direction, rotation around the longitudinal (Z) axis, and rotation around the dorsoventral (X) axis. This explanation aroused my curiosity with regard to the position of the abdominal organs around the stomach, such as the esophagus, pancreas, and duodenum, which are restricted in their positions after CS17. For example, around CS20, movement of the stomach is restricted at both its entrance (cardia) and the exit (pyloric antrum) near the mid-sagittal plane.

We designed our study to sort out the dynamic process that places the stomach in its definitive position in the abdomen. Accordingly, we analyzed the external morphology and morphometry of the human embryonic stomach, as well as documented its precise 3D movements, using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging data of human embryos in the “Kyoto Collection”. We discovered that the line connecting the cardia and the pyloric antrum of the stomach does not rotate around the dorsoventral (X) axis, as widely believed, but rotates around the transverse (Y) axis. The stomach “appears” to move towards the left, laterally and caudally, as deflection and differential growth progresses. We found that the developmental morphology of the three-dimensionally reconstructed stomach was not “analogous” to that of adults or as described in recent textbooks. Rather, we found that the stomach’s developmental morphology is as documented in a study a century before (Lewis 1912), in which the stomach was precisely hand drawn by a special artist [note added by Editor: Lewis studied the stomachs of five human embryos that were 10 mm and 45 mm in length; Harvard Embryological Collection, Series 1000]. We are gratified that our MR imaging data of embryos enhance the value of the Kyoto Collection, not only as archives of historical specimens but also as useful research resources for the future.”