Anatomical Investigations Research Articles

Anatomical investigation of safety determining factors for keyhole drilling trajectories for robotic cochlear implant surgery.

Cochlear implants (CI) are the most successful bioprosthesis in medicine probably due to the tonotopic anatomy of the auditory pathway and of course the brain plasticity. Correct placement of the CI arrays, respecting the inner ear anatomy are therefore important. The ideal trajectory to insert a cochlear implant array is defined by an entrance through the round window membrane and continues as long as possible parallel to the basal turn of the cochlea. Image-guided surgery can directly drill with a robotic arm through the mastoid and execute an exact drilling of this precalculated most ideal trajectory. Here, we aim to identify critical anatomical structures determining the safest keyhole drilling trajectory by comparing easy and difficult CI surgeries performed with the HEARO Procedure: a robotic tool for image-guided surgery. Cone-beam computed tomography images of patients who underwent robot-assisted cochlear implantation surgery (RACIS) were included. Three of 25 cases had to be converted to conventional surgery because of the current safety mitigations based on anatomical distance. Radiological images in DICOM format were transferred to dedicated software (OTOPLAN® Cascination GMHB Bern Switzerland) for analyses. Surgical segmentation and previously planned trajectories were analyzed for these 25 cases by comparing cochlear sizes, facial recess sizes, round window sizes, and trajectory angles. In addition, facial recess angle, and cochlear orientation angles were measured with RadiAnt DICOM Viewer (Medixant, Pozan, Poland). Facial recess size, facial recess angle, and distance between the facial nerve and safe trajectory were smaller in patient who converted from robotic surgery to conventional. A significant positive correlation existed between basal turn angle and in-plane angle (p = 0.001, r = 0.859). In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between the basal turn length and the last electrode insertion depth degree (p = 0.007, r = 0.545). In our robotic surgery cases, we demonstrate that the limiting factors of anatomical relationships are constituted by the dimensions of the facial recess and the cochlear orientation. The findings of this study are considered to be a reference for future studies in achieving collision-free trajectory planning in robotic-assisted cochlear implant surgery.

The Application of the Posterior Atlanto-Occipital Membrane Tension Release Technique for Surgical Exposure of the Horizontal Part of the Vertebral Artery's Third Segment: An Anatomical and Clinical Investigation.

This study aims to elucidate the anatomical principles governing the surrounding venous structures (VS) of the horizontal part of the third segment of the vertebral artery (V3h) and develop a safe and bloodless surgical technique for exposing V3h. This study used 10 formalin-infused cadaveric head specimens. The dissections were performed stepwise to simulate the far lateral approach process, exposing the V3h with a novel technique. Additionally, we applied this technique to 10 patients undergoing far or extreme lateral approaches. The VS surrounding V3h is divided into 3 components: the vertebral venous plexus, suboccipital cavernous sinus, and the anastomotic vein. The posterior atlanto-occipital membrane (PAOM), a resilient fascial layer in the craniovertebral junction, extends from the periosteum of the occipital squama to the posterior arch of the atlas. It adheres ventrally to the VS within the suboccipital triangle (SOT), forming a tent-like structure that maintains tension and ensures fullness of the VS around V3h. We discovered that by releasing tension in this membrane and reducing strain on this tent-like structure, the collapse of the venous sinus within the SOT can be achieved, resulting in reduced intraoperative bleeding and improved surgical efficiency. Additionally, we successfully managed 10 clinical cases employing the PAOM tension release technique in clinical cases, with no reported incidents of intraoperative vertebral artery injury. The application of the PAOM tension release technique effectively collapses the tent-like structure within the SOT, significantly reducing bleeding during V3h exposure in craniovertebral junction.

Morphological, Anatomical, Physiological and Genetic Studies of Iris aphylla L. Wild Species Conservation in “Ex Situ” Conditions

Wild Iris plants are usually found in spontaneous flora, but due to their ornamental characteristics, they can also be used for ornamental purposes, which means that it is very important to find the perfect conditions for plant growth. This research aimed to evaluate the ornamental value and adaptive behavior of wild Iris aphylla L. in “ex situ” conditions. Plants from wild flora were cultivated experimentally in the Floriculture field at the Faculty of Horticulture, IULS, Iași, Romania. The biometric determinations revealed the significantly higher ornamental value of conserved plants grown in “ex situ” conditions compared to wild plants. In “ex situ” conditions, the plants displayed more vigorous growth (~100%) and had a higher number of flowers per stem (5–9 flowers), whereas, in wild conditions, this species has from two to a maximum of five flowers. Given the absence of anatomical studies in the literature, detailed anatomical investigations of the leaf structure were performed, complemented by analyses of the photosynthetic pigment content to assess the plant’s physiological performance. Additionally, the molecular phylogenetic analyses conducted using two plastid markers (rbcL and trnL-F) confirmed the taxonomic classification of the native I. aphylla L. species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the molecular phylogeny of the wild Iridaceae species in Romania. These findings provide insights into the taxonomy, morphology, cultivation potential, and ornamental value of the species, supporting future conservation and horticulture development programs.

Selective Targeting of a Defined Subpopulation of Corticospinal Neurons using a Novel Klhl14-Cre Mouse Line Enables Molecular and Anatomical Investigations through Development into Maturity.

The cortex connects to brainstem and spinal targets through subcerebral projection neurons (SCPN), which exhibit molecular diversity during development based on their neocortical location and axonal targets. We generated a novel Klhl14-Cre mouse line to utilize this developmental delineation and drive Cre expression in a specific SCPN subpopulation. This developmental specificity enabled investigation of 1) areal locations of Klhl14+ SCPN in mature cortex, 2) their axonal collateralization at maturity, and 3) which genes can control their axon targeting. Using intersectional tools, we can also selectively label these neurons in the adult CNS. Therefore, developmental molecular delineation of SCPN not only provides prospective identification but also enables molecular analysis during development, as well as anatomical and functional investigations in adulthood.

Track-Weighted Dynamic Functional Connectivity Profiles and Topographic Organization of the Human Pulvinar.

The human pulvinar is considered a prototypical associative thalamic nucleus as it represents a key node in several cortico-subcortical networks. Through this extensive connectivity to widespread brain areas, it has been suggested that the pulvinar may play a central role in modulating cortical oscillatory dynamics of complex cognitive and executive functions. Additionally, derangements of pulvinar activity are involved in different neuropsychiatric conditions including Lewy-body disease, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia. Anatomical investigations in nonhuman primates have demonstrated a topographical organization of cortico-pulvinar connectivity along its dorsoventral and rostrocaudal axes; this specific organization shows only partial overlap with the traditional subdivision into subnuclei (anterior, lateral, medial, and inferior) and is thought to coordinate information processing within specific brain networks. However, despite its relevance in mediating higher-order cognitive functions, such a structural and functional organization of the pulvinar in the human brain remains poorly understood. Track-weighted dynamic functional connectivity (tw-dFC) is a recently developed technique that combines structural and dynamic functional connectivity, allowing the identification of white matter pathways underlying the fluctuations observed in functional connectivity between brain regions over time. Herein, we applied a data-driven parcellation approach to reveal topographically organized connectivity clusters within the human pulvinar complex, in two large cohorts of healthy human subjects. Unsupervised clustering of tw-dFC time series within the pulvinar complex revealed dorsomedial, dorsolateral, ventral anterior, and ventral posterior connectivity clusters. Each of these clusters shows functional coupling to specific, widespread cortico-subcortical white matter brain networks. Altogether, our findings represent a relevant step towards a better understanding of pulvinar anatomy and function, and a detailed characterization of his role in healthy and pathological conditions.

CURRENT STATE OF INVASIVE ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA IN ROMANIA: MORPHOLOGICAL AND ANATOMICAL INSIGHTS

Numerous ornamental plant species introduced to Europe have become invasive. Asclepias syriaca L. is a notable example and the focal point of our research. Native to North America, it was introduced to Europe in 1629 and is currently listed as an invasive species of concern under EU Regulation 1143/2014. In Romania, the species was first reported in 1836. Asclepias syriaca demonstrates a high capacity to adapt to various climatic and edaphic conditions. In Europe, it primarily inhabits abandoned agricultural lands, wet and dry meadows, road edges, and tree plantations, negatively impacting agriculture. The species exhibits competitive traits such as height, shad e tolerance, vegetative propagation, drought resistance, and allelopathic potential. The aim of this study was to investigate the ecological and anatomical characteristics contributing to the invasive potential of Asclepias syriaca in Romania. The analyses of the current state of the species’ populations highlighted the environmental conditions that support its establishment and spread. Additionally, anatomical investigations revealed structural traits that further emphasize its adaptability to diverse envi ronmental conditions. This study enhances our understanding of the ecology and adaptive capacity of Asclepias syriaca , with significant implications for managing ecosystems affected by this invasive species in Romania.

Joint Anatomical, Histological, and Imaging Investigation of the Midbrain Target Region for Superolateral Medial Forebrain Bundle Deep Brain Stimulation

Introduction: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the superolateral branch of the medial forebrain bundle (slMFB) is currently being researched in clinical trials and open case series as a therapeutic option for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (TR-OCD). There are numerous publications describing stimulation in such proximity to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and open questions remain concerning the stimulation target and its functional environment. As of right now, we are not aware of any publications that compare the typical electrode placements with the histologically supported tractographic depiction of the target structure. Methods: We used three cadaver midbrain samples with presumed unaltered anatomy. After fixation, staining and slicing, the histological samples were warped to the Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) big brain environment. Utilizing a tractographic atlas, a qualitative analysis of the typical slMFB stimulation site in the lateral VTA utilizing a subset of clinically implanted DBS electrodes in n = 12 patients, successfully implanted for TR-OCD was performed. Results: A joint qualitative overlay analysis of predominantly tyrosine hydroxylase stained histology at different resolutions in an anatomical common space was achieved. Localization of the DBS lead bodies was found in the typical positions in front of the red nuclei in the lateral VTA. DBS lead tip region positions explained the oculomotor side effects of stimulation related to paranigral or parabrachial pigmented sub-nuclei of the VTA, respectively. The location of active electrode contacts suggests downstream and antidromic effects on the greater VTA related medial forebrain bundle system. Conclusion: This is the first dedicated joint histopathological overlay analysis of DBS electrodes targeting the slMFB and lateral VTA in a common anatomical space. This analysis might serve to better understand the DBS target region for this procedure.

Anatomical investigation of the venous system in pedicled nasal septal mucosal flap and its application in nasal skull base reconstruction

Objective: To investigate the distribution and primary drainage sites of the venous drainage system in the pedicled nasal septal mucosal flap, as well as to examine protective measures for the venous system of the nasal septal mucosal flap and its application in repairing the nasal skull base through the anatomical study of the nasal septum mucosal venous system in cadavers. Methods: Gross anatomy dissections were performed on 13 sides perfused fresh frozen cadaveric head specimens. The nasal septum mucosal flap was separated along the perichondrium and subperiosteum, then passed across the vomer, anterior wall of sphenoid sinus, clivus, and towards the anterior edge of vertical plate of palatine bone. Detailed documentation, including photographs, was made to record the morphology, distribution and drainage location of veins of the nasal septum mucosal flap and its pedicle, along with number of sphenopalatine veins. Furthermore, venous injuries resulting from obtaining a pedicled nasal septal mucosa flap were observed. From March 2023 to March 2024, a retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with nasopharyngeal lesions who underwent surgical repair using a modified pedicled nasal septum mucosal flap for venous system protection in the ENT institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University. The postoperative endoscopy was employed to assess the viability of the mucosal flap. Results: The veins of the nasal septum mucosa were primarily located in the posterior region, including the vomerine region, anterior wall of the sphenoid sinus, clivus region, and posterolateral wall of the nasal cavity, in a reticular pattern. Perforating veins draining into these bony structures could be observed, although their quantity and morphology varied. Notably, no prominent sphenopalatine veins were identified in 10 specimens examined, while 3 specimens exhibited sphenopalatine veins: one with a small single branch and two with venous bundles. Preservation of the nasal septal vein was possible when dissection was limited to the anterior edge of the wing of vomer. A wider range of dissection increased the risk of veinous injury. In cases where only vascular pedicles at the sphenopalatine foramen were preserved, three cadaveric head specimens retained intact sphenopalatine veins, while drainage veins were completely destroyed in ten other specimens. Fifteen patients with unilateral lesions (8 with recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma and 7 with nasopharyngeal radionecrosis) were included in this study. The postoperative reconstructions were carried out using contralateral pedicled nasal septal mucosal flaps. The average follow-up time was 7 months (ranging from 3 to 12 months), and all the nasal septal mucosal flaps survived. Conclusions: The primary location of the drainage vein within the nasal septum mucosa is situated in its posterior region, where it penetrates into adjacent bone structures. Very few sphenopalatine veins pass through the sphenopalatine foramen. Extensive dissection of the pedicled nasal septal mucosal flap may potentially impair the venous system and adversely affect flap survival rates, necessitating further clinical exploration.

Evaluation of Radiological and Anatomical Features of Cervical Vertebrae in Adult Persian Cat.

Radiographic studies of Persian cat's cervical vertebrae can provide us with valuable information used in identifying its anatomical features, investigating various species of Persian cats and evaluating their cervical pathologies. The present study aimed to investigate the anatomical and radiological features of cervical vertebrae in Persian cats to create a comprehensive and accurate reference for the normal range of cervical bones and joints that can be used for clinical decision-making and interpretation of radiographic findings in these cats. The present descriptive-cross-sectional study included 10 adult Persian cats, including 5 males and 5 females. All cats underwent radiography in the dorsoventral, ventrodorsal, left lateral and right lateral recumbency. Then, anatomical investigations were performed. According to our findings, Persian cats were different from other cat species in some cervical vertebral characteristics, which can be suggested as comparative anatomy in these species. The most important differences were as follows: the C3 and C7 had the lowest and highest spinous process height (SPH), respectively. The atlas had the highest transverse process width (TPW), which was significantly different with other cervical vertebrae (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the cervical vertebrae were not significantly different in vertical diameter of cranial vertebral foramen (VDCrVF) and transverse diameter of cranial vertebral foramen (TDCrVF) (p ≤ 0.05). The caudal surface of the atlantic vertebral arch had two dorsal and ventral tubercles. Also, the ventral crest of the axis was quite indistinct in the cranial part while becoming prominent in the caudal part. The C3 spinous process was a wide, small tubercle, while the C7 spinous process was extended vertically. Finally, the C6 transverse processes had a large ventrocranial tubercle forming a sagittal plate with cranial and caudal parts separated by a notch. The accurate and comprehensive standard ranges obtained from the present study can be used for the interpretation of imaging results, clinical decision-making, and finding the normal and abnormal sizes of the cervical vertebrae and their processes in Persian cats.

Dextrocardia with complete atrioventricular block—the right clinical approach to pace a heart on the right hemithorax: a case report

BackgroundA heart positioned on the right side of the thorax can be more a complex situation than it seems, also the potentially associated congenital cardiopathies are variable. In this regard, patients with dextrocardia presenting with complete atrioventricular block require a thorough anatomical investigation to map the veno-arterial system and potential cardiovascular defects before proceeding with a permanent pacing procedure.Case presentationA 73-year-old Caucasian woman with no significant medical history presented with syncope. Physical examination showed regular heart sounds with an average heart rate of 35–40 beats per minute and no other relevant physical findings. Chest X-rays revealed a heart positioned in the right hemithorax. A standard electrocardiogram revealed complete atrioventricular block with junctional escape rhythm at nearly 35–40 beats per minute. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed a mirror image dextrocardia without any other remarkable abnormalities. Venogram performed using the left peripheral cephalic vein showed normal venous return into the right atrium positioned on the left side. Surgical intervention consisted of permanent dual chamber pacemaker implantation using the left subclavian vein. Discussion is provided based on the relevant medical literature outlining different potential scenarios with associated cardiac and major vessels abnormalities.ConclusionThis case highlights an atypical presentation of atrioventricular block in a patient with dextrocardia and situs inversus, for whom a successful dual-pacemaker implantation procedure was performed.

The curious case of the Dana platypus and what it can teach us about how lead shotgun pellets behave in fluid preserved museum specimens and may limit their scientific value.

Fluid preserved animal specimens in the collections of natural history museums constitute an invaluable archive of past and present animal diversity. Well-preserved specimens have a shelf-life spanning centuries and are widely used for e.g. anatomical, taxonomical and genetic studies. The way specimens were collected depended on the type of animal and the historical setting. As many small mammals and birds were historically collected by shooting, large quantities of heavy metal residues, primarily lead, may have been introduced into the sample in the form of lead shot pellets. Over time, these pellets may react with tissue fluids and/or the fixation and preservation agents and corrode into lead salts. As these chemicals are toxic, they could constitute a health issue to collection staff. Additionally, heavy element chemicals interfere with several imaging technologies increasingly used for non-invasive studies, and may confound anatomical and pathological investigations on affected specimens. Here we present a case-study based on platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) and other small mammals containing lead pellets from the collection of The Natural History Museum of Denmark.

Segmental vitiligo distribution follows the underlying arterial blood supply territory: a hypothesis based on anatomo-clinical, pathological and physio-pathological studies.

Segmental vitiligo (SV) is a subset of vitiligo typically characterized by its unilateral distribution. The pathogenesis of SV remains unclear, and until now the two main patterns proposed for SV have lacked biological support. This calls for a new approach. Use data obtained from anatomo-clinical, pathological, and physio-pathological studies to formulate a new hypothesis on segmental vitiligo distribution and its pathogenesis. Using transparent templates of local arterial blood supply, we evaluated anatomical correspondence (AC) in 140 SV lesions according to the number of SV lesions that fit within the corresponding arterial blood-supply areas. SV lesions were graded as 1 (moderate: AC < 50%), 2 (good: AC > 50%), or 3 (excellent: AC of all lesions). To support this anatomical investigation, we searched for complementary assessments according to the activity of SV lesions. Arterial and periarterial network impairment and inflammatory infiltration were histologically studied using nerve growth factor (NGF) and CD4 and CD8 monoclonal antibodies. Increased blood flow of the underlying arteries was also investigated using thermography and ultrasonography. We recruited 140 patients with a sex ratio of 0.8 and mean age 26.13 years. Localizations: head and neck 84.28%; trunk 6.42%; upper limb 5%; genital areas 2.14%; lower limb 1.42%. The AC of each SV lesion with the underlying artery blood supply territory was rated as 72% excellent; 16% good; and 12% moderate. Histologically (40 patients), we found some periarterial network impairments. Thermal asymmetry was significantly associated with active SV (p < 0.001). We hypothesized that SV distribution corresponds to the underlying artery blood-supply territory.

Anatomical investigation of the morphometry of the cerebral arteries using digital subtraction angiography in the Thai population.

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the dimensions of cerebral arteries in the Thai population using digital subtraction angiography (DSA), with a focus on the anterior cerebral artery (ACA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and posterior cerebral artery (PCA). The research aimed to explore anatomical variations in diameters and lengths of these arteries across different sexes and age groups, which are crucial for cerebrovascular interventions. This retrospective study measured the diameters and lengths of the ACA, MCA, and PCA in 177 Thai patients with an average age of 47.6 years (range: 11-82 years) with normal cerebral angiograms. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) was used for the measurements. The study found significant sex-based differences in the mean diameters of the left ACA (males: 2.12 ± 0.28mm, females: 1.92 ± 0.20mm; p < 0.01), right MCA (males: 2.50 ± 0.25mm, females: 2.31 ± 0.17mm; p < 0.01), and left MCA (males: 2.44 ± 0.19mm, females: 2.30 ± 0.17mm; p < 0.01) with males exhibiting larger diameters. The right ACA length was significantly longer in males (15.46 ± 1.74mm) compared to females (13.98 ± 1.92mm; p < 0.01). While no significant age-related differences were observed in diameters, a significant increase in length with age was noted for the left ACA in the ≥ 60 years group (13.61 ± 1.64mm) compared to the < 60 years group (12.63 ± 1.36mm; p < 0.01). Among others, significant correlations were found between the diameters of the left ACA and right MCA (r = 0.699; p < 0.01), and a strong correlation between left ACA length and left PCA diameter (r = 0.975; p < 0.01). The findings provide invaluable data for tailoring neurosurgical approaches and designing angiographic equipment for the Thai population, emphasizing the importance of considering anatomical variations in clinical practice. These results highlight the necessity for personalized medical care based on anatomical differences to improve cerebrovascular intervention outcomes.

Triticeal cartilage: a meta-analysis of prevalence and morphologic evaluation.

The triticeal cartilage, situated within the lateral thyrohyoid membrane, remains elusive in function yet crucial in clinical contexts. Composed of hyaline cartilage, it is prone to ossification, potentially leading to diagnostic challenges such as misidentification with atherosclerosis or fractures. This study, aiming to establish its prevalence and highlight clinical relevance, conducted a systematic review across several electronic databases such as Medline, PUBMED, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, SpringerLink and Sciencedirect using keywords "triticeal cartilage", "triticeous cartilage" or "cartilago triticea". An assurance tool for anatomical investigations was used to assess the quality of the methodology (AQUA). A random effects model was utilized to determine the pooled prevalence. The true prevalence of triticeal cartilage was found to be variable, with an overall pooled proportion of 43% while crude prevalence were 50.6%. Its crude prevalence was notably higher in women compared to men, in contrary true prevalence was higher in men, posing sex-related disparities. It was mostly seen bilaterally. When the morphologic characteristics of the cartilage were evaluated, classification differences were observed in terms of shape, with a mean length of 5.48mm, a mean width of 3.04mm and a mean weight of 62.32mg. The vertebral level at which the TC was located was mostly C4. The degree of calcification of the cartilage was most commonly mild. In conclusion, triticeal cartilage holds significant clinical importance, necessitating vigilance during diagnostic evaluations and surgical approaches. Further studies are imperative to elucidate its function comprehensively and refine diagnostic strategies, ensuring optimal patient care in neck-related pathologies.

Ethics on academic procurement of cadavers.

Anatomy is a vital discipline in the realm of Medicine, and its primary means of study is through the use of cadavers. Experts in the medical, legal, and ethical domains have discussed the use of cadavers or their anatomical parts for educational purposes, which are considered a severe drawback. The advantages of using cadavers include their contribution to medical education, research, the investigation of innovative surgical procedures or techniques, the detection of anatomical differences at an individual or population level, the enhancement of surgical skills, and the support of other anatomical investigations. This review highlights the issues like consent, respect for the deceased and cultural beliefs on cadaver procurement practices and also it emphasizes the need for better body donation initiatives and public awareness campaigns to ensure sustainable cadaver procurement practices, ensuring consent, respect for the deceased and cultural beliefs.

Anatomic and Phytochemical Investigation of Herbal Tea Bags Sold as Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) in the Market

Melissa officinalis L., an ethnobotanically valuable plant, has been used for the treatment of several diseases since ancient times. However, different plants with the same name are sold instead of lemon balm in markets that sell herbal products in Turkey. For this purpose, 15 different brands of tea bags in crushed form, sold as lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) in markets, were analyzed. The total phenolic, flavonoid and antioxidant capacities of the hydroalcoholic extracts of these tea samples along with the stomatal structure were investigated. Additionally, chemical compositions and rosmarinic acid contents were determined by the high-performance thin layer chromatography method. Among the samples examined, S1, S2, S9 and S12 tea samples were found to meet the eligibility criteria. The leaves of these samples had diacytic stomata and the rosmarinic acid ratio in their phytochemical composition was over 2%. Furthermore, caffeic acid was detected in these samples.

Morphological and anatomical studies in Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae)

This research delves into the morphological and anatomical intricacies of Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae), commonly known as black cumin, through meticulous examination of various accessions collected from diverse geographical regions in India. Morphological studies revealed distinct characteristics such as the linear to lanceolate alternate leaves, black capsule fruit housing seeds, and growth parameters including germination time, maturation period, and yield per plant. Notably, certain accessions exhibited superior attributes in terms of plant height, root length, and seed yield. Anatomical investigations unveiled detailed structures of stems, roots, seeds, and capsules. Stem anatomy exhibited a multi-cornered structure with specific features like uniseriate epidermis with non-glandular trichomes, parenchymatous cortex with chlorenchymatous and sclerenchymatous cells, and distinct vascular bundle arrangements. Root anatomy depicted a circular cross-section with well-defined layers including epidermis, cortex, and xylem with prominent oil droplets. Seed anatomy displayed layers of epidermis, parenchyma, pigmented layer, endosperm, and a central embryo. Moreover, this study identified novel cells in the stem cortex and observed variability in carpel numbers among different accessions. The findings contribute significantly to the understanding of N. sativa morphology and anatomy, shedding light on previously unexplored aspects and emphasizing the need for further investigation into the variability within and among accessions.

An anatomical, histological, and immunohistochemical investigation on the intestines of the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx)

An anatomical, histological, and immunohistochemical investigation on the intestines of the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx)

Step-by-Step Description of Percutaneous Full-Endoscopic C2 Ganglionectomy: An Anatomic Feasibility Study in Human Cadavers.

The percutaneous full-endoscopic C2 ganglionectomy (PEC2G), an innovative procedure developed for the surgical treatment of intractable occipital neuralgia, was firstly reported by us in 2021. However, a universally accepted and well-articulated protocol modality remains elusive. The primary objective of this anatomic investigation was to meticulously elucidate the standard procedural steps of PEC2G and assess the anatomic features supporting the safe implementation of PEC2G. Eighteen fresh adult cadavers were incorporated into this study. From this sample, 3 cadavers were subjected to bilateral PEC2G. Each procedure was documented and assessed, leading to the formulation of standard procedure criteria for PEC2G. Subsequently, 10 sets of anatomic parameters pertinent to this procedure were identified, quantified, and analyzed in 15 cadavers after complete bilateral endoscopic exposure of the C2 ganglion. An assessment of the technical feasibility and potential constraints associated with PEC2G was conducted, providing invaluable insights into the procedure's anatomic considerations. All 3 cadavers successfully underwent the PEC2G without any observed complications, such as dura tears or vertebral artery injuries. The C2 inferior articular process emerged as the optimal bony target for puncture, with the C2 pedicle serving as the standard guiding landmark en route to the C2 ganglion. In the 15 cadavers subjected to the planned procedure, 10 sets of anatomic parameters were quantified, establishing a foundational understanding of the anatomy in the context of PEC2G procedure. The results demonstrated that the characteristic of anatomic data pertinent to surgical site supported the safe implementation of PEC2G. This study contributes the standard surgical steps and crucial anatomic parameters relevant to PEC2G. The characteristic of anatomic data bolsters the safety credentials of this technique, which offers a reliable approach to achieve C2 ganglionectomy. These insights undeniably establish a robust foundation for the ongoing refinement and broader adoption of PEC2G.

Anatomical investigation of the common minke whale fetal tongue reveals papillae marginales and glands

The tongue serves as a vital organ in mammals, facilitating crucial functions such as mastication, swallowing, vocalization, thermoregulation, and taste reception. Cetacean tongues have evolved under distinct selective pressures compared to those of terrestrial mammals, yet research on their tongues is limited, leading to controversy regarding their gustatory abilities. This study aims to elucidate the morphological characteristics of the fetal tongue of common minke whales through both gross and microscopic observations. Macroscopic examination revealed that the papillae marginales were the only lingual papillae that were obviously developed in all specimens, and these projections are hypothesized to aid in suckling during the nursing period. Lingual glands were exclusively found in the proximal region of the tongue, unlike in toothed whales, where they are distributed in rostral regions. The rudimentary mechanical papillae and the caudal location of the lingual glands are thought to be consistent with the lunge feeding strategy. Neither macroscopic nor microscopic observations detected taste buds or any structures which are responsible for taste reception. Hence, it is suggested that gustation is not a crucial sense for nutrition in this species. These morphological findings enhance our understanding of rorqual feeding habits and provide insights for the management of this unique mammalian lineage.