Anatomical Perspective Research Articles

Bamboo–PCM: Comparative Analysis of Phase Change Material-Impregnated Dendrocalamus giganteus Culm Behavior Exposed to Thermal Variation in Wind Tunnel Assay

The construction industry’s pursuit of eco-friendly materials has sparked interest in bamboo, a renewable resource with exceptional physical and mechanical properties. This study analyzed the integration of Dendrocalamus giganteus bamboo with phase change materials (PCMs) to enhance thermal energy storage in building applications, aiming to improve temperature regulation and reduce energy consumption for climate control. The study compared the performance of bamboo impregnated with an industrial PCM or coconut oil, used in conjunction with a polyurethane resin (PU) coating treatment, assessing their thermal regulation performance against traditional building materials such as ceramic tiles, fiber cement, and metal sheets. From an anatomical perspective, the pores within bamboo culms offered ample space for PCM storage, resulting in a substantial heat storage capacity. Thermal behavior tests conducted in a wind tunnel revealed that the impregnated bamboo samples effectively mitigate temperature fluctuations by aligning them with the PCM’s phase change temperature. Additionally, it was observed that air flow velocity had an impact on this phenomenon. The study concluded that bamboo culms impregnated with PCM hold promise for temperature regulation in construction applications, with variations in airflow exerting an impact on the outcomes obtained.

Male Chest Athletic Definition: A Comprehensive View from an Anatomical and Physiological Perspective.

In order to obtain a natural but athletic contour through liposuction, the management of the male pectoral region is constantly changing. Cutting-edge methods including mammary gland excision and fat grafting to the pectoralis major have been created. There isn't yet a single method that can handle all long-term problems, like gynecomastia with eventual loss of pectoral definition, fat graft asymmetries, and/or unnatural definition..vic. This article proposes a surgical technique to improve the male pectoral region through liposuction in specific areas, muscular volumization with objectively established fat volumes based on intracompartimental pressure measurements, and the management and prevention of gynecomastia. This approach aims to ensure the maximal survival of the fat graft with reduced fat necrosis, long-term asymmetry, and sustained results over time. Measurement of the pectoralis major pressure, following fat graft, was conducted between January 2021 and June 2023. Patients aged between 19 and 60 years at the time of surgery, with a body mass index below 30 kg/m², were included. The surgical technique is presented in this article. The two models used in this study exhibited strong explanatory power, indicating that a significant portion of the variability in fat graft resorption could be explained by the variables included in these models. Postoperative exercise, patients age, and intramuscular pressure of the transferred fat showed statistically significant results in the survival of fat grafts. BMI did not show a statistically significant relationship. This technique can treat and prevent gynecomastia while simultaneously improving the appearance of the male chest through volumization of the pectoralis major with safe fat grafts volumes. The established volumes did not exceed 8 mmHg intracompartimental pressure. Higher volumes reduced fat survival. Large volumes lead to greater postoperative asymmetry and loss of fat grafts.

Posterior Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy: An Anatomical Essay and Surgical Update.

Posterior retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (PRLA) has emerged as a revolutionary, minimally invasive technique for adrenal gland surgery, offering significant advantages over traditional open approaches. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive update on PRLA, focusing on its anatomical foundations, surgical technique, and clinical implications. We conducted an extensive review of the current literature and surgical practices to elucidate the key aspects of PRLA. The procedure leverages a unique "backdoor" approach, accessing the adrenal glands through the retroperitoneum, which necessitates a thorough understanding of the posterior abdominal wall and retroperitoneal anatomy. Proper patient selection, meticulous surgical planning, and adherence to key technical principles are paramount for successful outcomes. In this paper, the surgical technique is described step by step, emphasizing critical aspects such as patient positioning, trocar placement, and adrenal dissection. PRLA demonstrates reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times compared to open surgery, while maintaining comparable oncological outcomes for appropriately selected cases. However, the technique presents unique challenges, including a confined working space and the need for surgeons to adapt to a posterior anatomical perspective. We conclude that PRLA, in the right clinical setting, offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional adrenalectomy approaches. Future research should focus on expanding indications and refining techniques to further improve patient outcomes.

Intratumoral Microbiota: Insights from Anatomical, Molecular, and Clinical Perspectives.

The human microbiota represents a heterogeneous microbial community composed of several commensal, symbiotic, and even pathogenic microorganisms colonizing both the external and internal body surfaces. Despite the term "microbiota" being commonly used to identify microorganisms inhabiting the gut, several pieces of evidence suggest the presence of different microbiota physiologically colonizing other organs. In this context, several studies have also confirmed that microbes are integral components of tumor tissue in different types of cancer, constituting the so-called "intratumoral microbiota". The intratumoral microbiota is closely related to the occurrence and development of cancer as well as to the efficacy of anticancer treatments. Indeed, intratumoral microbiota can contribute to carcinogenesis and metastasis formation as some microbes can directly cause DNA damage, while others can induce the activation of proinflammatory responses or oncogenic pathways and alter the tumor microenvironment (TME). All these characteristics make the intratumoral microbiota an interesting topic to investigate for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes in order to improve the management of cancer patients. This review aims to gather the most recent data on the role of the intratumoral microbiota in cancer development, progression, and response to treatment, as well as its potential diagnostic and prognostic value.

Anatomical study of single incision contralateral C7 nerve transfer through subdural pathway.

To explore the feasibility of single incision C7 nerve transfer surgery through the subarachnoid pathway on the healthy side through anatomical research. Four fresh frozen cadaver specimens were used for the study. Observe and measure the length of C7 nerve root fibers. Divide the front root into 3 bundles and the rear root into 5 bundles. The C7 nerve has a filamentous structure, arranged symmetrically on both sides, and the length of the root fibers gradually shortens from top to bottom. The length of the left anterior root decreased from (12.25 ± 0.68) mm to (9.75 ± 1.40) mm, the length of the right anterior root decreased from (12.95 ± 1.49) mm to (10.00 ± 2.00) mm, the length of the left posterior root decreased from (15.63 ± 1.55) mm to (12.38 ± 0.71) mm, and the length of the right posterior root decreased from (15.48 ± 1.37) mm to (12.30 ± 0.90) mm. The distance from the exit of the C7 nerve from the dura mater to the fusion site in 4 specimens was (10.98 ± 1.21) mm on the left and (10.98 ± 1.391) mm on the right. All four specimens have completed nerve bundle anastomosis. From an anatomical perspective, it is feasible to anastomose the healthy side C7 nerve with the affected side root fibers in the dorsal bundle of the spinal cord after cutting off the dura mater.

OPTIMIZING GUT HEALTH: THE ROLE OF NABHI MARMA (NAVEL VITAL POINT) STIMULATION IN CONTEMPORARY MEDICINE

The human gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” plays a crucial role in a person's overall well-being. There is a growing interest in integrating ancient Indian sciences with modern pharmaceutical systems, such as Marma Chikitsa (Marma Therapy), which includes Nabhi Marma (the vital point at the navel). This review paper aims to discuss key aspects of Nabhi Marma (the crucial point at the navel) and its relevance to modern medicine. The research involved the use of published articles from PubMed and Google Scholar to establish the effectiveness of Nabhi Marma stimulation, its mechanisms, and its compatibility with modern medical practices. The paper considered the historical and anatomical perspectives of Nabhi Marma, as well as recent research findings, which indicated that stimulation of Nabhi Marma may affect gut motility, enzyme secretion, gut-brain axis, and bacterial flora composition. Proposed mechanisms include the modulation of the autonomic nervous system, activation of the enteric nervous system, neuroendocrine activity, and psychological factors. The results suggest potential benefits of incorporating Marma (vital points) therapy into integrative medical models, promoting interprofessional collaboration, and considering individualized medical treatment concepts. Nabhi Marma stimulation may be used as a complementary approach for treating functional gastrointestinal disorders and post-treatment care. Further extensive studies should be conducted in the future to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of ozone auto-probing and to understand their underlying effects on the gut and microbiome.

Lymph nodes in oral squamous cell carcinoma: a comprehensive anatomical perspective.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) often exhibits a propensity for metastasis to lymph nodes (LNs), significantly influencing prognosis. Neck dissection (ND) is an important part in the treatment of OSCC. Variations in the preference for and pathways of lymph node metastasis (LNM) in different regions of the oral cavity have been observed. Currently, there is a lack of sufficient emphasis on the anatomical perspectives of LNM and ND. This review elucidates the lymphatic system of the maxillofacial regions from an anatomical standpoint, details the distribution of the sentinel LNs across different subsites, and summarizes the various classifications of the cervical LNs. Additionally, we elaborate on the methods used to study the lymphatic system, particularly imaging techniques. Furthermore, we investigate the pathways of cervical LNM and evaluate the efficacy of ND from an anatomical viewpoint. The overall objective of this review is to provide essential anatomical knowledge for managing LNs in OSCC, in the hope of providing patients with effective treatment modalities to enhance their quality of life.

Anatomy, digital radiography and cone-beam computed tomography of Western European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) skull

BackgroundEuropean hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) are small insectivorous mammals common in Europe. With increased urbanization, the species become more frequent in the cities and near other human dwellings. The anatomy of the species with the use of diagnostic imaging techniques along with the classical anatomical methodology has not been researched before. In addition to the description of this species' skull, the data may contribute to progress in hedgehog medicine, delivering a basis for diagnosing and treating head trauma in this species.ResultsCadavers of 30 European hedgehogs have been used to study the anatomy of the head of the species. Along with classical anatomical techniques – latex and corrosion cast specimens, x-ray, and cone-bean computed tomography scans were performed. The methods were then compared, and the detailed anatomy of the head was described. The skull of the Western European hedgehog was elongated and oval in shape, and could be divided into two distinct regions: one formed of neurocranial bones and the other of facial bones. The neurocranium was composed of the following bones: the occipital, interparietal, parietal, frontal, temporal, sphenoid, ethmoid, and pterygoid bones. The following facial bones were identified: the incisive, nasal, maxilla, zygomatic, palatine, vomer, and the mandible. The most important findings include the primitive tympanic bullae, the absence of a supraorbital foramen, and the lacrimal bones, which were indistinguishably fused with the maxillae.ConclusionsThe results of the study may be used in future research on the comparative anatomy of the other members of the Eulipotyphla order. With the increase of hedgehogs in the cities, it is important to establish new diagnostic and treatment protocols for wildlife rehabilitation centers. Anatomical and radiological descriptions may be used as a base for such work. The anatomical features of the hedgehog skull described in the study may prove useful for further studies from a comparative anatomical perspective. Additionally, the data may serve as a basis for developing identification guidelines for archaeological studies and forensic research.

Impact and limitations of 3D computational modelling in transcatheter mitral valve replacement-atwo-centre Dutch experience.

Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) has emerged as aminimally invasive alternative to mitral valve surgery for patients at high or prohibitive operative risk. Prospective studies reported favourable outcomes in patients with annulus calcification (valve-in-mitral annulus calcification; ViMAC), failed annuloplasty ring (mitral valve-in-ring; MViR), and bioprosthetic mitral valve dysfunction (mitral valve-in-valve; MViV). Multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT)-derived 3D-modelling and simulations may provide complementary anatomical perspectives for TMVR planning. We aimed to illustrate the implementation of MSCT-derived modelling and simulations in the workup of TMVR for ViMAC, MViR, and MViV. For this retrospective study, we included all consecutive patients screened for TMVR and compared MSCT data, echocardiographic outcomes and clinical outcomes. Sixteen out of 41patients were treated with TMVR (ViMAC n = 9, MViR n = 3, MViV n = 4). Eleven patients were excluded for inappropriate sizing, 4for anchoring issues and 10for an unacceptable risk of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) based on 3D modelling. There were 3procedure-related deaths and 1non-procedure-related cardiovascular death during 30days of follow-up. LVOTO occurred in 3ViMAC patients and 1MViR patient, due to deeper valve implantation than planned in 3patients, and anterior mitral leaflet displacement with recurrent basal septum thickening in 1patient. TMVR significantly reduced mitral mean gradients as compared with baseline measurements (median mean gradient 9.5(9.0-11.5) mm Hg before TMVR versus 5.0(4.5-6.0) mm Hg after TMVR, p = 0.03). There was no residual mitral regurgitation at 30days. MSCT-derived 3D modelling and simulation provide valuable anatomical insights for TMVR with transcatheter balloon expandable valves in ViMAC, MViR and MViV. Further planning iterations should target the persistent risk for neo-LVOTO.

Anatomical and Physiological Perspectives of Various Srotas: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract: Background: In Ayurveda, Srotas are fundamental components of the body's transport system. Acharya describe numerous Srotas that facilitate the balance of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala. These channels, which can vary in size from micro to macroscopic, are crucial for a range of physiological functions. Aim: To explore the anatomical and physiological aspects of Srotas in Ayurveda, focusing on their role in maintaining bodily balance and their impact on health and disease. Material & Methods: This review synthesizes information from classical Ayurvedic texts, such as the Charaka Samhita, to clarify the concept of Srotas. It explores their structural and functional roles, including absorption, secretion, transportation, drying, excretion, and separation. Discussion: The term 'Srotamsi' includes both Anusrotas( individual cells) and Sthula Srotas (organ systems), derived from the Sanskrit root 'Stru-Strabane,' indicating movement and filtration. Srotas are crucial for the flow of substances and significantly impact the state of Dosha, either aggravating or pacifying them. Proper functioning of Srotas is vital for maintaining health and restoring balance; dysfunction of Srotas can lead to various pathological conditions. Conclusion: A thorough understanding of Srotas from anatomical and physiological perspectives is essential for appreciating their role in health and disease. This review highlights the importance of maintaining Srotas functionality to prevent and address health issues in line with Ayurvedic principles.

Comprehensive perioperative and minimally invasive post-operative defect approach of massive palatal pleomorphic adenoma: Case series

Introduction and importanceExtensive Palatal post-operative defect management following excision of neoplasm is one of the most difficult challenges for oral and maxillofacial surgeons regarding its limited surgical access and visibility on narrow area, airway management difficulty during intubation, richness of maxillary vascular network resulting in enormous bleeding risk. Decision making regarding its surgical approach and impact on speech and mastication is important. This case series aim to describe comprehensive step by step perioperative and palatal defect management approach based on tumor pathological characteristic and anatomical perspective to achieve good surgical outcome. Cases presentationTwo cases of massive palatal pleomorphic adenoma were presented. Both of cases occurs in female patients. Lesions was crossing the midline, impair speech and causing discomfort. Preoperative diagnostic from CT scan and FNAB result was pleomorphic adenoma. Clinical discussionSurgery for both cases done with wide periosteal sacrificing excision, ostectomy and surgical obturator placement from intraoral approach under general anesthesia with nasal intubation. Eventually the wounds healed without wound dehiscence and fistula, no speech impairment and no sign of reccurency. ConclusionUnderstanding pathological characteristic of pleomorphic adenoma and basic anatomy of surrounding structure are important to formulate minimal invasive surgical and post-operative defect management planning and improve patient's quality of life.

Anatomical perspectives of brow-lifting using threads: Clinical cases with techniques.

Tailoring surgical interventions to target age-related transformations is paramount. Many candidates seeking blepharoplasty commonly exhibit eyebrow ptosis, underscoring the necessity for surgeons to possess a comprehensive understanding of techniques for brow and forehead rejuvenation. Various surgical techniques are available for eyebrow and forehead enhancement, contrasting the standardized approaches in upper and lower blepharoplasty. Thread lifting has gained popularity for forehead lifting, although a more precise term would be eyebrow lifting. The thread lifting methods using V and I techniques with floating-type threads (Secret Line, Hyundai Meditech., Inc., Wonju-si, Republic of Korea) are used. The natural aging process often causes the forehead and eyebrows to sag under the influence of gravity, leading to the appearance of heavy eyelids. Elevating the eyebrows can mitigate droopiness, enhance vision clarity, and rejuvenate the facial aesthetic. While non-surgical methods like Botulinum Toxin A can weaken muscles and potentially aid in brow elevation, their visible effects may be somewhat constrained. Surgical methods encompass endoscopic forehead lift, eyebrow lift techniques, and scalp excision-based forehead reduction surgery, each with specific advantages and drawbacks. Thread lifting bridges the gap between surgical and non-surgical modalities. Forehead areas often lack subcutaneous fat, requiring precise anatomical understanding for effective thread lifting. Cannula usage with partial tunneling ensures efficacy even in patients with strong adhesions. Presented cases showcase successful eyebrow lifting using cog threads, illustrating immediate and gradual post-procedure changes. Eyebrow thread lifting demands periodic procedures, offering subtler improvements than surgery. Anatomical knowledge is crucial, and the technique presents discomfort. Effects last about 6 months, requiring re-treatment as effects regress. Thread lifting, a middle ground between surgical and non-surgical methods, can rejuvenate brows with less downtime.

Congenital three generation wide familial non-syndromic polydactyly.

Polydactyly is typically observed as isolated and sporadic occurrences, although familial cases do exist, albeit with lower frequency, manifesting in various inheritance patterns. In around 30% of polydactyly cases, there exists a familial history, suggesting the probable involvement of a single gene. Given its potential for hereditary transmission, thorough investigation of the patients' parents, first-degree relatives, grandparents, and even great-grandparents for similar disorders becomes imperative. In our clinic, we conducted an analysis focusing on patients presenting with foot polydactyly, along with occurrences of polydactyly among their first- and second-degree relatives spanning two to three generations of family history. The study encompassed three patients and their respective families, including a pair of siblings. We speculate that the inheritance type in our cases was autosomal dominant. Among our patients, one presented with central polydactyly, while the remaining patients and all familial cases displayed postaxial polydactyly. In terms of morphologic classification, one patient had a Y-shaped metatarsal, another had a T-shaped metatarsal, and the third patient exhibited a duplicated ray-shaped anomaly. In our review of the literature, we haven't come across a case spanning three generations like the ones we encountered. Additionally, the presence of a transverse accessory extensor tendon between both extensor tendons in cases with T- and Y-shaped metatarsals intrigued us from an anatomical perspective. Our goal is to present these rare cases of congenital familial polydactyly spanning three generations, highlighting the anatomical variations observed and aiming to contribute to the existing body of literature on the subject.

Theoretical perspectives in reverse logistics research

PurposeTheory is an essential prerequisite in the development and maturation of any scholarly discipline. This study offers insight into theory development in reverse logistics (RL) studies, provides a synopsis of the theories employed in RL studies, and presents a comprehensive framework for choosing and applying theories in RL studies.Design/methodology/approachUsing the systematic literature review approach, 265 various RL articles were analysed to discover the trend in using theories in RL studies and classify the individual theories employed. The analysis of the theoretical classification is presented to explain the type and frequency of the usage of theories.FindingsThe analysis discovered 52 specific theories from the sample. These theories were categorised under various categories: competitive, inventory, economic, decision, etc. The institutional, stakeholder, transaction cost economies, resource-based view, natural resource-based view, dynamic capability, agency and theory of planned behaviour were some of the key theories discovered. Finally, a comprehensive framework is provided to aid researchers in choosing and utilising theories.Research limitations/implicationsThis study gives authors, reviewers and editors perspectives on utilising theories in RL studies. It will give them the impetus to develop theories in RL and limit the borrowing or extension of theories from other disciplines to RL studies.Originality/valueTo the best of the researcher's knowledge, this is the first attempt to comprehensively provide an anatomical perspective into theory usage in RL studies. Besides, this study's proposed framework for selecting and using theories is a novelty in the domain of RL.

Singular entry point technique for forehead and temple filler augmentation: Anatomical and clinical perspectives.

The depressed volume of the forehead and temple is resolved by filler injection. However, the current method has the potential to cause pain and side effects in patients, depending on the skill of the clinician. Therefore, this study proposes a new method for safer and simpler injection using only one injection entry point. Using the novel injection method, the filler was injected into the forehead and temple regions in three unembalmed cadavers and two healthy Korean volunteers. The cannula and filler locations were identified using dissection, ultrasonography, and three-dimensional (3D) scanning. Ultrasonographic images and dissection results showed that the filler injected into the cadavers was in the target layer. The cannula and filler were located on the layer as the supraperiosteal layer on the forehead and the supra deep temporal fascia layer in the temple. Finally, 3D scanning images showed that the filler was injected precisely and effectively into the forehead and temples of the volunteer who underwent the procedure. This method can reduce pain and minimize externally visible wounds caused by injections. The injected filler was naturally connected from the forehead to the temple and maintained for around 3 months. Additionally, it is possible to inject fillers into the forehead and temple at a constant and safe depth without requiring specific skills. It is expected that this method will become a universal method because it minimizes the burden on both patients and clinicians.

거대 두개인두종에 대한 2단계 수술

Giant craniopharyngiomas (CPs) present a challenge for neurosurgeons in terms of treatment. The complex clinical course, which includes both surgical and non-surgical aspects, remains a significant hurdle to overcome. While most CPs are treated using an endoscopic endonasal approach regardless of their size, skull base reconstruction to prevent cerebrospinal fluid leakage becomes a subsequent concern after surgery. In this case report, we present a giant CP that occupies the anterior cranial fossa, third ventricle, and posterior fossa, extending as low as the internal acoustic meatus level. We conducted a two-staged operation, consisting of the endoscope-assisted interhemispheric approach and the transcallosal approach, to remove the tumor. The endoscopic view provided a unique anatomical perspective of the tumor, cranial nerves, vessels, and Liliequist membrane.

Exploring ocular fibulin-3 (EFEMP1): Anatomical, age-related, and species perspectives

Fibulin-3 (FBLN3, aka EFEMP1) is a secreted extracellular matrix (ECM) glycoprotein implicated in ocular diseases including glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. Yet surprisingly, little is known about its native biology, expression patterns, and localization in the eye. To overcome these shortcomings, we conducted gene expression analysis and immunohistochemistry for FBLN3 in ocular tissues from mice, pigs, non-human primates, and humans. Moreover, we evaluated age-related changes in FBLN3 and FBLN3-related ECM remodeling enzymes/inhibitors in aging mice. We found that FBLN3 displayed distinct staining patterns consistent across the mouse retina, particularly in the ganglion cell layer and inner nuclear layer (INL). In contrast, human retinas exhibited a unique staining pattern, with enrichment of FBLN3 in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), INL, and outer nuclear layer (ONL) in the peripheral retina. This staining transitioned to the outer plexiform layer (OPL) in the central retina/macula, and was accompanied by reduced RPE immunoreactivity approaching the fovea. Surprisingly, we found significant age-related increases in FBLN3 expression and protein abundance in the mouse retina which was paralleled by reduced transcript levels of FBLN3-degrading enzymes (i.e., Mmp2 and Htra1). Our findings highlight important species-dependent, retinal region-specific, and age-related expression and localization patterns of FBLN3 which favor its accumulation during aging. These findings contribute to a better understanding of FBLN3's role in ocular pathology and provide valuable insights for future FBLN3 research.

Human shoulder anatomy: new ultrasound, anatomical, and microscopic perspectives

This study aimed to describe the shoulder anatomy, together with the anatomical relationships in adults and early stages of development. The shoulder muscles were studied from ultrasound, anatomical, and microscopic perspectives in a sample of 34 human shoulders. Thickness measurements were taken of the tendons and fasciae of the subscapularis, long head tendon of the biceps brachii, supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and teres minor. Ultrasound and dissection techniques are strongly correlated. However, the measurements obtained from the dissection technique were superior to those obtained from the ultrasound in all cases, except for the thickness of the long head tendon of the biceps brachii, the teres minor tendon, and the fascia thickness of the infraspinatus. In addition, the study of shoulder anatomy revealed no differences between females and males. Relevant findings from dissection included a clear overlap between the infraspinatus and supraspinatus, which shared tendon fibers, and a similar connection between the transverse ligament of the long head tendon of the biceps brachii and the subscapularis, which created a more interconnected shoulder function. The study of the anatomical measurements shows an underestimation of the shoulder measurements in the ultrasound compared with the dissection technique, but a high correlation between the measurements made by the two techniques. We present reference values for the tendon and fascia thicknesses of the rotator cuff, with no differences observed by gender. The relationships between shoulder structures described in the anatomical study imply as well that, in the event of an injury, adjacent tissues may be affected. This extended information may facilitate future optimal clinical explorations.

The importance of the palatine bone for endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery.

Endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery is increasingly prevalent, with its scope expanding from pathogens in the midline region to those in the paramedian region. Maximizing anterior sphenoidectomy is important for the median approach, and lateralizing the pterygopalatine fossa is crucial for the paramedian approach. Maximizing the surgical corridor in the nasal cavity and minimizing damage to neurovascular structures are vital for establishing a surgical field with minimal bleeding, ensuring safe, precise, and gentle procedures. However, the relationship between the maxillofacial and skull base bones in endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery is difficult to understand because these bones are intricately articulated, making it challenging to visualize each bone's outline. Understanding important bones and their related neurovascular structures is essential for all skull base surgeons to maximize the surgical corridor and minimize iatrogenic injury to neurovascular structures. This study aimed to elucidate the role of the palatine bone from a microsurgical anatomical perspective. Three dry skulls were used to demonstrate the structure of the palatine bone and its relationship with surrounding bones. A formalin-perfused cadaveric head was dissected to show the related neurovascular structures. The arteries and veins of the cadaveric heads were injected with red- and blue-colored silicon. Dissection was performed using a surgical microscope and endoscope. In addition, the utilization of the palatine bone as a landmark to identify neurovascular structures, which aids in creating a wider surgical field with less bleeding, was shown in two representative cases. The palatine bone consists of unique complex structures, including the sphenoidal process, ethmoidal crest, pterygopalatine canal, and sphenopalatine notch, which are closely related to the sphenopalatine artery, maxillary nerve, and its branches. The ethmoidal crest of the palatine bone is a well-known structure that is useful for identifying the sphenopalatine foramen, controlling the sphenopalatine artery and nerve, and safely opening the pterygopalatine fossa. The sphenoidal process of the palatine bone is a valuable landmark for identifying the palatovaginal artery, which is a landmark used to safely and efficiently expose the vidian canal. The sphenoidal process is easily cracked with an osteotome and removed to expose the palatovaginal artery, which runs along the pharyngeal groove, just medial to the vidian canal. By opening the pterygopalatine canal (also known as the greater palatine canal), further lateralization of the periosteum-covered pterygopalatine fossa contents can be achieved. Overall, the sphenoidal process and ethmoidal crest can be used as important landmarks to maximize the surgical corridor and minimize unnecessary injury to neurovascular structures.

Modeling Neurodegeneration and Regeneration in Parkinson's Disease

The diagnosis and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases is a heavily examined topic in the neuroscience discipline. Whether it be from the anatomical and biological perspectives or the psychological and sociological perspectives, the ultimate goal is to discover strategies to pinpoint the infection as soon as possible. This article begins with reviewing the small-world network structure and then combines the sociological and anatomical perspectives to explain the progression of neuronal death within the brain by using rsfMRI data and the Hegselmann-Krause Model of Opinion Dynamics to illustrate critical interactions between brain regions, and to predict the ultimate behavior of the neural network after initial degeneration Following experimentation–in which critical regions related to Parkinson’s Disease were studied–thresholds were identified in specific regions which exhibited consistent converging behavior of the neural network toward either degenerative or regenerative directions. Furthermore, a simple graphical model is proposed to demonstrate the ranges of values in which current brain health could be of concern. We concluded that neuron death in one brain region can lead to further infection in the resulting system; however, some regions can also directly/indirectly compensate for the system’s decreased function. In future research endeavors, this could provide insight into developing more accurate predictive models for the goal of early detection of a diseased brain and its recovery.