Anatomical Description Research Articles

Comprehensive analysis and classification of retrocondylar ulnar groove morphology using CT imaging in an average population of adults.

Anatomical variations of the concave shaped retrocondylar ulnar groove (RUG) can contribute to ulnar nerve instability. However, there are currently limited available standardized data describing the anatomy of the RUG based on radiologic imaging, such as computed tomography (CT). This study aims to provide a comprehensive description and classification of RUG anatomy based on RUG angle measurements. 400 CT scans of the elbows of adults showing no signs of osseous damage were evaluated. RUG angles were measured in four anatomically defined axial planes that spanned from the proximal to the distal end of the RUG. Furthermore, distance measurements at the medial epicondyle were conducted. A classification system for the RUG is proposed based on the acquired RUG angles, aiming to categorize the individual angles according to the 25th and 75th percentiles. RUG angles were significantly larger in males compared to females (p < 0.001) accompanied by larger distances including the off-set and height of the medial epicondyle (p < 0.001). RUG angles decreased from proximal to distal locations (p < 0.05). This study revealed that men exhibited larger RUG angles compared to women, indicating a less-concave shape of the RUG in men. Introducing an objective RUG classification system can improve our understanding of anatomical variations and potentially find applicationin diagnostics and preoperative planning.

The sternum and interclavicle of Aelurognathus tigriceps (Broom &amp; Haughton, 1913) (Therapsida: Gorgonopsia), with comments on sternal evolution in therapsids

Understanding the origin and evolution of the unique mammalian respiratory system hinges on our knowledge of the osteological changes in the pectoral apparatus (i.e., scapulocoracoid, cleithrum, clavicle, interclavicle, sternum) throughout the synapsid fossil record. Among non-mammalian therapsids, documentation of this anatomy is woefully incomplete, with groups such as dinocephalians and gorgonopsians remaining poorly documented. Here we provide a detailed anatomical description of an articulated sternum and interclavicle of a well-preserved specimen of Aelurognathus tigriceps (Broom &amp; Haughton, 1913) from the Lopingian upper Madumabisa Mudstone Formation, Luangwa Basin of Zambia. The sternal morphology reveals new anatomical details on the attachment sites for the ribs, showing three distinct facets, and a previously undescribed depression on the ventral surface for the attachment of the interclavicle. We also provide a preliminary discussion of the morphological variation of these elements both within Gorgonopsia and across Therapsida.

Descriptive anatomy and three-dimensional reconstruction of the skull of the tetrapod Eoherpeton watsoni Panchen, 1975 from the Carboniferous of Scotland

ABSTRACT The early tetrapod Eoherpeton watsoni is known from the mid- to late Carboniferous (late Viséan to Namurian, approximately 346–313 Ma) of Scotland. The holotype is made up of a nearly complete but crushed skull with postcranial fragments. The skull anatomy of Eoherpeton was first described over 40 years ago; however, many details are obscured due to deformation of the specimen, including internal bone surfaces, the palatal bones and dentition, and suture morphology. Most phylogenetic analyses place Eoherpeton as an embolomere/reptilomorph on the lineage leading to amniotes, making it a key taxon for understanding anatomical changes during the fish-tetrapod transition. In this paper, we scanned the holotype using micro-computed tomography and digitally prepared the specimen. Based on these data, we present a revised description of the skull, including sutural morphology, that supplements and amends previous descriptions. New anatomical findings include the presence of a previously unknown tooth-bearing vomer, additional information on the shape of the basipterygoid processes and jaw joint, the ability to visualise the full extent of the pterygoid, and confirmation of the arrangement of the coronoid series. We also note the size of the pterygoid flange, which is larger than previously described for Eoherpeton. The pterygoid flange is widely considered to be characteristic of amniotes and serves as the origin of the medial pterygoideus muscle. The differentiation of the adductor muscles and appearance of medial pterygoideus are thought to have permitted a static pressure bite in amniotes, potentially resulting in greater bite forces and increased dietary range. Thus, the presence and extent of the pterygoid flange in Eoherpeton suggests this feature (and associated changes in feeding mechanism) may have evolved earlier than previously thought. Finally, the skull was digitally repaired and retrodeformed to create a new, hypothetical three-dimensional reconstruction of the skull of Eoherpeton.

Anatomical variant of the superficial temporal artery in temporoparietal fascia flap for microtia reconstruction

BackgroundSingle-stage microtia auricular reconstruction is becoming more relevant. The determining factor is a temporoparietal fascia flap (TPF) with both branches of the superficial temporal artery (STA). There are not many studies regarding vascular branching in microtia peoples. MethodsWe conducted an anatomical study on TPF flap harvested during single-stage endoscopic assisted microtia auricular reconstruction from May 2018 to July 2021. We observed the flaps under endoscopic and surgical microscopes to determine several variables (vascular size, number of frontal/parietal branches, distance from branching location to estimated external ear canal, distance from frontal artery to projected course of facial nerve’s frontal branch, etc). ResultsThe study included 55 flaps from 54 patients. 50/55 (90,9%) had a parietal branch, and 55/55 (100%) had a frontal branch with a mean diameter of 0.98 and 0.91mm, respectively. Regarding the frontal artery, 1.8%, 25.5%, 50.9%, 16.35, and 5.45% had 0-4 traverse frontal branch(es), respectively. The mean distance from the frontal artery to the estimated course of the frontal nerve was 10.56mm. Parietal artery absence is more likely in patients with severe hemifacial microsomia or STA trunk go under the auricular cartilage remnants (p <0.05). Either frontal or parietal artery absence or small diameter can cause necrosis. Frontal arteries travelling near the frontal nerve may result in post-op nerve palsy. ConclusionsMicrotia auricular reconstructive surgery is always a big challenge for plastic surgeons. Anatomical variants are common. Detailed anatomical description of the STA with the help of microsurgery and endoscopy help allow arterial-based flap designing and harvest, which tremendously improve surgical success rate by diminishing flap necrosis and nerve damages. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCETherapeutic, IV.

Morphometry of the infraorbital foramen in dentate and edentulous adult humans and its clinical relevance

The infraorbital foramen (IOF) serves as an important anatomical reference for infraorbital nerve block during different procedures. Its clinical and surgical relevance, associated with conflicting results in its anatomy description justifies the present study. Thus, this work aims to describe the IOF, qualitatively and quantitatively, and propose an accurate measurement to define its location. One hundred and seventy-four IOFs of dry skulls were analyzed and divided in dentate (DE) and edentulous (ED) groups. Distances were measured between the IOF and the margin of the alveolar arch of the maxilla (MAAM), the inferior orbital margin (IOM), the intermaxillary suture (IMS), the vertical plane of IOF. A new methodology was proposed to optimize the identification of IOF based on the IMS distance. Oval-shaped IOFs (n=81/174) with inferomedial orientation (n=104/174) and with a crest-shaped upper margin (n=163/174) constituted the norm for this sample. Distance between IOF and MAAM was 29.97 ± 4.09 mm, to IOM 7.27 ± 1.8 mm, and to IMS 35.09 ± 3.77 mm. ED individuals had IOF closer to MAAM (p=0.0124). The highest point of this methodology was the lack of statistical differences in the IMS distance in ED and DE specimens, making this method applicable for both. Therefore, to minimize iatrogenic injuries, clinicians and surgeons must consider the total or partial presence of teeth, the methodology established to find the IOF, its inferomedial orientation, and the prevalent crest on its superior margin.

Opuntioideae cactus stem Bioimaging analysis: Bridging taxonomy and antimicrobial research.

This study presents a comprehensive scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of Opuntioideae cactus stems indigenous to the arid regions of Saudi Arabia, elucidating their intricate microstructural features. The findings not only advance taxonomic understanding by aiding in species differentiation but also reveal the antimicrobial potential of these cacti, highlighting their significance as valuable natural resources for both ecological and pharmaceutical applications. The present study is aimed to present the stem epidermal anatomical description of Opuntioideae (Cactaceae) belonging to genus Opuntia (five Species), Cylindropuntia (two Species), and Austrocylindropuntia (one Species) as tool for systematic identification. Stem epidermal anatomical features represent here are epidermal cells, stomatal complex, subsidiary cells, and trichomes findings was observed using light microscope and SEM. The stem epidermal sections were made by heating in test tube containing lactic acid and nitric acid protocol. In anatomical findings, irregular, zigzag, wavy, and polygonal epidermal cells with sinuate, sinuous, and straight anticlinal walls were observed. Quantitatively minimum length (28.05 ± 2.05 μm) and width (23.15 ± 3.41 μm) of epidermal cells were noted in Cylindropuntia kleiniae. Paracytic type of stomata present was observed in all species with kidney-shaped guard cell present in six species, and in Opuntia macrocentra and Austrocylindropuntia subulata, dumbbell-shaped guard cells were observed. The largest length of stomata (53.25 ± 2.05 μm) and width of stomata (35.10 ± 5.19 μm) were observed in Opuntia monacantha. In present research work, stem anatomical features show many diverse characters are of special attention for plant taxonomist for the correct identification and provide baseline for further study in subfamily Opuntiodeae. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The intricate microstructures of Opuntioideae cactus stems. Investigating the antimicrobial potential of compounds found within Opuntioideae cactus stems. Correlations between the unique structural features observed through SEM and the antimicrobial activity of Opuntioideae cactus stem extracts.

The prevalence of the anconeus epitrochlearis muscle in a Central European population.

An anconeus epitrochlearis muscle (AE) is a common anatomical variant in the upper extremity, located at the medial aspect of the elbow. Its anatomical position contributes to the roof of the cubital tunnel. While it plays a role in protecting the ulnar nerve, it may also pose a risk for ulnar nerve compression. This study aimed to determine the true prevalence of AE in a Central European population. The presence of AE was evaluated in 115 cadaveric upper extremities from an undetermined number of subjects. The limbs for dissection were assumed to be healthy, and AE identification involved anatomical description and measurements. Data analysis aimed to determine the true prevalence, considering 95% confidence intervals. AE was present in 5 of the 115 cadaveric limbs (4.3%). Specimens lacking AE were observed, depicting normal cubital tunnel roof anatomy. When present, AE replaced the proximal part of the cubital tunnel roof, superficially coursing to the ulnar nerve. Morphological variations were noted. The true prevalence of AE was 4.3% (95% CI = 0.2%-8.4%), consistent with recent studies. Historical reports indicate varying true prevalence up to 26%, possibly linked to manual labor changes. Contrary to prior assumptions, our study did not find a significantly higher true prevalence in the European population. AE's association with cubital tunnel syndrome is complex, with both protective and potentially compressive roles.

Characterization of anatomical characters of Peperomia (Piperaceae) from Asia for taxonomy

Abstract The flowers of Peperomia (Piperaceae) are simple, minute, and unique structures within the angiosperms consisting of a rounded bract, two stamens and an ovary, but generally lack taxonomic value at species level. Because of this, morphological characters of vegetative parts have been mainly used for species level taxonomy. There is a need to supplement these vegetative characters with anatomical characters. We selected 17 native Thai species representatives of South East Asian Peperomia to investigate the utility of vegetative anatomical characters for species delimitation, taxon identification, and classification. Stem, petiole, and leaf anatomical characters were studied using standard microscopic techniques. The anatomical characters demonstrated high diversity and supported species identification. Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) culstering, Principal Coordinates analysis (PCoA), and Principal Component Anaysis (PCA) were used to investigate patterns in the multivariate anatomical data and identify groupings of value to species classification. Four broad groupings were retrieved and some subgroupings identified. The most important characters that differentiated the species in the multivariate analysis included stem shape (roundness and ridges), petiole indumentum and trichome type, vascular bundle pattern and number, stem pith cavity, mucilage canals, and stem cortex sclerenchyma. These data were further used to prepare anatomical descriptions at generic and species levels and to provide a key to species.

AN ANATOMICAL STUDY OF THE THORACIC LIMB OF THE GIANT ANTEATER (MYRMECOPHAGA TRIDACTYLA) COMPARED WITH THE DOMESTIC DOG TO GUIDE SURGICAL APPROACHES TO THE HUMERUS AND RADIUS.

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is a neotropical mammal considered to be vulnerable to extinction. Recent increased interest in veterinary care in the giant anteater has prompted renewed interest in anatomical descriptions in this species. The terrestrial habits and slow movements of the giant anteater contribute to its susceptibility to vehicular trauma on highways, which is a significant cause of mortality in the species. This study describes the muscular anatomy of the thoracic limb and variations of the long bones with emphasis on the structures surrounding the humerus and radius. It also describes the possible surgical approaches for the management of fractures of humerus and radius, comparing these with the surgical approaches described in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Three giant anteater and three domestic dog cadavers, from deaths not related to this project, were used. The medial approach to the humeral diaphysis of the giant anteater resulted in the least tissue trauma, and provided access to the flattest surface for implant attachment. The lateral approach to the radius proved challenging, requiring total detachment of the extensor carpi radialis muscle and incision of the very robust abductor digitorum longus muscle to access the distal diaphysis. Although the giant anteater shares many similarities of the thoracic limb anatomy with the domestic dog, important differences exist. This comparative knowledge will allow veterinary practitioners to directly apply the principles of fracture repair in these species. Safe access to these bones for possible osteosynthesis is essential to allow implant placement and minimize postoperative complications in this species.

Neglected Anatomical Areas in Ovarian Cancer: Significance for Optimal Debulking Surgery.

Ovarian cancer (OC), the most lethal gynecological malignancy, usually presents in advanced stages. Characterized by peritoneal and lymphatic dissemination, OC necessitates a complex surgical approach usually involving the upper abdomen with the aim of achieving optimal cytoreduction without visible macroscopic disease (R0). Failures in optimal cytoreduction, essential for prognosis, often stem from overlooking anatomical neglected sites that harbor residual tumor. Concealed OC metastases may be found in anatomical locations such as the omental bursa; Morison's pouch; the base of the round ligament and hepatic bridge; the splenic hilum; and suprarenal, retrocrural, cardiophrenic and inguinal lymph nodes. Hence, mastery of anatomy is crucial, given the necessity for maneuvers like liver mobilization, diaphragmatic peritonectomy and splenectomy, as well as dissection of suprarenal, celiac, and cardiophrenic lymph nodes in most cases. This article provides a meticulous anatomical description of neglected anatomical areas during OC surgery and describes surgical steps essential for the dissection of these "neglected" areas. This knowledge should equip clinicians with the tools needed for safe and complete cytoreduction in OC patients.

Linea alba 3D morphometric variability by CT scan exploration.

The width of the Linea alba, which is often gauged by inter-rectus distance, is a key risk factor for incisional hernia and recurrence. Previous studies provided limited descriptions with no consideration for width, location variability, or curvature. We aimed to offer a comprehensive 3D anatomical analysis of the Linea alba, emphasizing its variations across diverse demographics. Using open source software, 2D sagittal plane and 3D reconstructions were performed on 117 patients' CT scans. Linea alba length, curvature assessed by the sagitta (the longest perpendicular segment between xipho-pubic line and the Linea alba), and continuous width along the height were measured. The Linea alba had a rhombus shape, with a maximum width at the umbilicus of 4.4 ± 1.9cm and a larger width above the umbilicus than below. Its length was 37.5 ± 3.6cm, which increased with body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), and was shorter in women (p < 0.001). The sagitta was 2.6 ± 2.2cm, three times higher in the obese group (p < 0.001), majorated with age (p = 0.009), but was independent of gender (p = 0.212). Linea alba width increased with both age and BMI (p < 0.001-p = 0.002), being notably wider in women halfway between the umbilicus and pubis (p = 0.007). This study provides an exhaustive 3D description of Linea alba's anatomical variability, presenting new considerations for curvature. This method provides a patient-specific anatomy description of the Linea alba. Further studies are needed to determine whether 3D reconstruction correlates with pathologies, such as hernias and diastasis recti.

Ocular and eyelid surgical anatomy in Georg Bartisch's "Ophthalmodouleia"

Georg Bartisch, a 16th century barber surgeon, published in 1583 his treatise entitled "Ophthalmodouleia" (Greek term meaning eye service), a work in German to promote ophthalmology for his countrymen barber surgeons. He did not have an academic education nor knew classical languages, he had used a triplet in terminology by using German, Hellenic and Latin nomination in his anatomical descriptions. Various accurate illustrations and a peculiar system of presentation with flap to liken an in-depth presentation were demonstrated to add prestige in his work. This raises concerns for another medical surgeon to have helped for this publication. Bartisch innovative approaches introduced various surgical tools. Cataract surgery was the epitome of his work. Anatomy of both the eye and the eyelids was there for only to serve the operation. Religion, magic and Galenic views presented barriers for Bartisch's scientific development. However, he is considered as the patron of German School of Ophthalmology.

The Arteria Lymphatica and Lymphatic Microperforators: A Dedicated Blood Supply to Collecting Lymphatics and Their Potential Implications in Lymphedema: Anatomical Description.

Lymphedema is common after lymphatic damage in cancer treatment, with negative impacts on function and quality of life. Evidence suggests that blood vessel microvasculature is sensitive to irradiation and trauma; however, despite knowledge regarding dedicated mural blood supply to arteries and veins (vasa vasorum), equivalent blood vessels supplying lymphatics have not been characterized. We studied collecting lymphatics for dedicated mural blood vessels in our series of 500 lymphaticovenous anastomosis procedures for lymphedema, and equivalent controls. Microscopic images of lymphatics from lymphedema and control patients were analyzed for lymphatic wall vascular density. Collecting lymphatics from 20 patients with lymphedema and 10 control patients were sampled for more detailed analysis (podoplanin immunostaining, light/confocal microscopy, microcomputed tomography, and transmission electron microscopy) to assess lymphatic wall ultrastructure and blood supply. Analysis revealed elaborate, dense blood microvessel networks associating with lymphatic walls in lymphedema patients and smaller equivalent vessels in controls. These vasa vasora or "arteria lymphatica" were supplied by regular axial blood vessels, parallel to lymphatic microperforators linking dermal and collecting lymphatics. Lymphatic walls were thicker in lymphedema patients than controls, with immunohistochemistry, computed tomography, transmission electron microscopy, and confocal microscopy characterizing abnormal blood vessels (altered appearance, thickened walls, elastin loss, narrow lumina, and fewer red blood cells) on these lymphatic walls. Dedicated blood vessels on lymphatics are significantly altered in lymphedema. A better understanding of the role of these vessels may reveal mechanistic clues into lymphedema pathophysiology and technical aspects of lymphedema microsurgery, and suggest potential novel therapeutic targets.

Reproductive health assessments in female polar bears: Anatomy, pathology, and diagnostic techniques

The reproductive success of polar bears (Ursus maritimus) in U.S. zoos is poor and the underlying causes of reproductive failure remain elusive. It is evident that new methodologies for evaluating fertility are needed, along with baseline information about species-specific reproductive anatomy and physiology. Between 2012 and 2024, 25 examinations of 17 female polar bears were conducted opportunistically, and included vulvar measurements, vaginal cytology, vaginoscopy, hysteroscopy with endometrial biopsy, and/or ultrasonography. Additionally, reproductive tracts (n = 10) harvested post-mortem were examined shortly after collection, allowing for inspection of anatomy ex vivo. The outcomes of these activities yielded detailed measurements and descriptions of reproductive anatomy. Vaginal cytology patterns demonstrated shifts in vaginal epithelial cell type associated with estrus and vaginoscopy enabled systematic evaluation of internal reproductive structures, including the vestibule, vestibulo-vaginal junction, urethral os, vaginal canal, and cervix. Hysteroscopy allowed visualization of the uterine endometrium and facilitated endometrial biopsy collection. Additionally, ultrasonography was utilized to identify ovaries in several bears, offering insights into ovarian dynamics and follicular development. Several abnormalities were noted during examinations of both in vivo and ex vivo tracts; these included clitoral hypertrophy, vaginal strictures, uterine polyps, endometritis, and cystic hyperplasia, although it is unclear if these aberrations significantly impacted fertility. Findings contribute to a better understanding of polar bear reproductive anatomy, highlight the utility of diagnostic techniques for monitoring reproduction, and elucidate potential causes of reproductive failure in polar bears.

Management of the Lingual Flap During Vertical Augmentation of the Atrophic Anterior Mandible: Anatomical Overview and Description of the Technique.

Vertical ridge augmentation in the anterior mandible is a technically delicate procedure that requires knowledge of some anatomical structures to reduce intra- and postoperative complications. Proper soft tissue management is one of the primary aspects to the success of these techniques, enabling tension-free primary wound closure and preventing membrane exposure. This cadaveric and clinical study provides an anatomical overview of the lingual portion of the anterior mandible. Moreover, there is a description of a novel surgical approach for release of the lingual flap that will help clinicians achieve primary closure without incurring intrasurgical complications.

Leaf anatomy of seven endemic species of Glicophyllum (Malpighiaceae) in Brazil.

Glicophyllum is well supported, presenting four homoplasies, easily differentiated from the other genera of the clade due to characteristics related to the reproductive organs, which can make the identification of their species difficult when they are not in the reproductive phase. Therefore, there are provided the leaf anatomical and morphological description of the leaf glands of seven species of Glicophyllum to assist in the identification of their species. The samples for the study were obtained from several national and international herbaria, sectioned freehand, stained with basic fuchsin - astra blue and compared through a binary matrix using the Sorensen's coefficient in the MVSP software. Among the leaf anatomical characters found, the following stand out: presence/absence of trichomes; petiole contour; contour of the main vein; organization of the mesophyll, presence/absence of bundle sheath extension and the surface of the glands. In this study, an identification key with leaf anatomical data is presented for the first time, demonstrating the applicability of leaf anatomy for the taxonomy of Glicophyllum. In the multivariate analysis, it is observed that the characteristics of leaf venation and topology of the glands are more representative to differentiate the taxa. Therefore, the data obtained can support future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies of the genus.

Sperm morphology, and macro and microscopic description of male and female reproductive tract in the North African houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata)

Ex-situ conservation programs are useful tools for preserving endangered species, and knowledge of their reproductive physiology is essential for achieving conservation objectives in captive breeding programs. The North African houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) is a vulnerable bird species bred in captivity to restore its natural populations. To better understand the reproductive biology of this species, we first described the anatomy and histology of the reproductive tracts of male and female North African houbara bustards. We described and classified the normal and abnormal sperm morphologies for the species. The reproductive tracts of males and females were collected during the breeding season (BS) (21 males and 14 females) and the non-breeding season (NBS) (four males and two females). Pictures and measurements of the testes and oviducts were taken, and testis colour was graded from 1 (black) to 6 (white). Organs were fixed and processed for histological analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The testis, epididymis, oviduct size, testicular capsule thickness, seminiferous tubule (ST) diameter, and histological layers of the oviduct were compared between the BS and NBS groups. Sperm morphometry was evaluated using fixed ejaculates (n=22, from 22 males). Ejaculates (n=417, 166 males) were collected and fixed during the BS, and their morphology and morphometry were evaluated using phase-contrast microscopy. Ejaculate mixes (n=12) were fixed and analysed using SEM and TEM. Overall, the anatomical structure and histology of the male and female reproductive tracts were similar to those of other avian species. The testes were symmetric, and a regression of testis and oviduct size, the thickness of the mucosa and serosa of the oviduct, and ST diameter (p<0.001) were observed during NBS compared with those during BS. Sperm storage structures are located inside the oviduct at the uterovaginal junction and infundibulum. Melanin granules were observed in the interstitial space of the seminiferous epithelium, which explains the testis pigmentation. Melanin was also found in the ovaries and the uterus. Houbara sperm have an elongated nuclear form and a round-shaped acrosome lacking perforatorium and rostrum. Most analysed samples were limitrophe normospermic (normal= 68.5 ± 14.7%), houbara sperm morphology could be classified into eight categories: normal sperm, acrosome, head, midpiece, tail, and teratogenic defects, swollen head, and cytoplasmic droplet. This study provides the first anatomical and histological descriptions of the male and female reproductive tracts of the North African houbara bustard. Further investigation into the functional role of melanin in the testes is warranted.

Comprehensive analysis of the rostral and caudal cerebral artery branching patterns in the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius).

In mammals, the cerebral cortex depends on a robust blood supply for optimal function. The rostral and caudal cerebral arteries are critical for supplying the cerebrum. This study presents the first detailed anatomical description of the rostral and caudal cerebral arteries of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius), including their origins, routes, and complex branching patterns. A sample of 55 heads from male dromedary camels aged 2-6 years was analyzed using advanced casting techniques with various casting materials to provide precise visualization of these arterial structures. The rostral cerebral arteries originate dorsally from the rostral epidural rete mirabile (RERM), while the caudal cerebral arteries arise from the caudal communicating artery, which is another branch of the RERM. Both sets of arteries give rise to multiple cortical branches responsible for supplying the medial aspects of the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobes, as well as the medial and caudal regions of the occipital lobes. This study significantly expands our understanding of the cerebrovascular anatomy of dromedary camels. Our findings have potential implications for veterinary medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in camels and may offer insights into broader comparative neuroscience research.

A taxonomy for superficial cerebral cavernous malformations: subtypes of cortical and subcortical lesions.

A taxonomy for superficial cerebral cavernous malformations (CMs), those based cortically in gyral gray matter or subcortically in underlying white matter, is proposed to build on the comprehensive, systematic characterization of CMs in the entire brain. Patients with superficial cerebral CMs were retrospectively analyzed from a consecutive surgical series between November 2008 and June 2021 at the authors' center. Superficial cerebral CMs were categorized into 4 subtypes based on their cortical location or, if subcortical, proximity to the nearest cerebral surface: convexity, medial, basal, and sylvian. Lobar location was also included for subtyping: frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital. A total of 362 CMs were resected in 346 patients. CM subtypes were as follows: 132 (36.5%) convexity, 78 (21.5%) medial, 72 (19.9%) basal, and 80 (22.1%) sylvian. Frontal CMs were most common (155 [42.8%]), followed by parietal (89 [24.6%]), temporal (87 [24.0%]), and occipital (31 [8.6%]). Of all CMs, 302 (83.4%) were cortical and 60 (16.6%) were subcortical. The mean subcortical depth of deep lesions was 2.97 cm, and the mean lesion volume was 4.68 cm3. Overall, 228 lesions (63.0%) were resected through a transgyral approach, and 134 (37.0%) were resected through a transsulcal approach. Good outcomes (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2) were observed in 314 patients (86.7%) and poor outcomes (mRS score > 2) in 25 patients (6.9%), and 23 patients (6.4%) were lost to late follow-up (mean follow-up duration 11.5 months). Relative outcomes were good (unchanged or improved mRS score) in 327 patients (90.3%) and poor (worse or died) in 35 patients (9.7%). Superficial cerebral CMs were resected through a gyrus or sulcus to open the subarachnoid dissection corridors, traversing the full extent of sulci to deepen the approach and minimize tissue transgression. Transgyral dissection avoids associated arteries but is inherently transgressive, whereas transsulcal dissection preserves cortical tissue and may reduce morbidity. Superficial cerebral CMs occupy the largest territory of the 7 types, and the size and surface complexity of the cerebrum make taxonomic subtyping valuable for clear anatomical description.

Charcoal anatomy of Brazilian species. III. Melastomataceae

Abstract Charcoal anatomy descriptions are paramount for identifying unknown charcoal specimens in different contexts. They form an integral part of anthracological studies, which can provide crucial information for researchers of different expertise. This paper describes the charcoal anatomy of 21 species in two subfamilies (Melastomatoideae and Olisbeoideae) of Melastomataceae native to Brazil. From those, six species are here described for the first time. The results point to clear distinction between the anatomical types inside the two studied subfamilies along with a relative homogeneity in anatomical features inside Melastomatoideae. For the latter, small qualitative and quantitative differences were identified, but intrageneric and interspecific variability hamper reliable identification in generic or tribe level.