Buccal Cavity Research Articles

Spatiotemporal Ultrastructural, Histological, and Morphometric Changes in the Buccal Cavity of Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) During Fingerling, Yearling, and Adult Stages

Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) is a Cyprinid fish of aquacultural and research importance. The buccal cavity represents the gateway of the digestive tract. The present study investigated the adaptational changes involving various components of the buccal cavity of fingerling (three months posthatching, mph), yearling (12 mph), and adult (48 mph) C. idella using scanning electron microscopy, histology, and morphometry. The upper and lower lips appeared uninterrupted at the three studied stages and were limited caudally by the upper and lower jaws. The jaw epithelium was the thickest part of the buccal epithelium; ultrastructurally, it appeared smooth with ridge-like borders in fingerlings that transformed into microgrooves in yearlings. In adult C. idella, the jaw mucosa was organized into dome-shaped masses separated from each other by tight furrows. Each mass was formed from several keratinocytes with corrugated surfaces that featured numerous microdepressions. Except for the jaws, taste buds, mainly of type I, and acidic and neutral goblet cells were observed throughout the mucosa of the buccal cavity, and their densities were highest along the mucosal folds of the palate and oral floor, suggesting a principal role for these parts in both gustation and food lubrication. This study is the first to report age-associated spatiotemporal changes in the buccal cavity of grass carp and will serve as a fundamental reference during the interpretation of various types of oral pathologies in teleost.

Assessment of PPMV-1 Genotype VI Virulence in Pigeons and Chickens and Protective Effectiveness of Paramyxovirus Vaccines in Pigeons.

Pigeon paramyxovirus serotype 1 (PPMV-1), an antigenic and host variant of avian paramyxovirus Newcastle disease virus (NDV), primarily originating from racing pigeons, has become a global panzootic. Egypt uses both inactivated PPMV-1 and conventional NDV vaccines to protect pigeons from disease and mortality. However, the impact of prevalent strains and the effectiveness of available vaccines in pigeons in Egypt are unclear. This study investigates the virulence of PPMV-1 (Pigeon/Egypt/Sharkia-19/2015/KX580988) and evaluates available paramyxovirus vaccines in protecting pigeons against a PPMV-1 challenge. Ten-day-old specific-pathogen-free (SPF) embryonated chicken eggs infected with this strain exhibited a mean death time (MDT) of 86.4 ± 5.88 h. The intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI) in day-old chickens was 0.8, while pigeons experienced an ICPI of 0.96 and an intravenous pathogenicity index (IVPI) of 2.11. These findings classify the strain as virulent and velogenic. Experimental infection of pigeons with this PPMV-1 strain at 106 EID50/0.1 mL resulted in a 62.5% mortality rate, displaying nervous and enteric distress. The virus caused extensive lesions in visceral organs, with strong immunohistochemistry signals in all examined organs, indicating the systemic spread of the virus concurrent to its neurotropic and viscerotropic tropism. Furthermore, vaccination using an inactivated PPMV-1 and live NDV LaSota vaccine regimen protected 100% of pigeons against mortality, while with a single NDV LaSota vaccine, it was 62.5%. The PPMV alone or combined with NDV LaSota induced protective levels of haemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody titres and reduced virus shedding from buccal and cloacal cavities. Based on generalised linear gamma model analysis, both PPMV-1 and NDV LaSota are antigenically comparable by HI. These findings suggest that using both inactivated PPMV-1 (G-VI) and live attenuated NDV (LaSota) vaccines is an effective prophylactic regimen for preventing and controlling PPMV-1 and NDV in pigeons, thereby reducing the risk of interspecies transmission.

C. elegans epicuticlins define specific compartments in the apical extracellular matrix and function in wound repair.

The apical extracellular matrix (aECM) of external epithelia often contains lipid-rich outer layers that contribute to permeability barrier function. The external aECM of nematodes is known as the cuticle and contains an external lipid-rich layer, the epicuticle. Epicuticlins are a family of tandem repeat cuticle proteins of unknown function. Here, we analyze the localization and function of the three C. elegans epicuticlins (EPIC proteins). EPIC-1 and EPIC-2 localize to the surface of the cuticle near the outer lipid layer, as well as to interfacial cuticles and adult-specific struts. EPIC-3 is expressed in dauer larvae and localizes to interfacial aECM in the buccal cavity. Skin wounding in the adult induces epic-3 expression, and EPIC proteins localize to wound sites. Null mutants lacking EPIC proteins are viable with reduced permeability barrier function and normal epicuticle lipid mobility. Loss of function in epic genes modifies the skin blistering phenotypes of bli mutants and reduces survival after skin wounding. Our results suggest EPIC proteins define specific cortical compartments of the aECM and promote wound repair.

Kimura Disease of the Head and Neck Region.

Objective: We analyzed the clinical characteristics and treatment results in surgical patients with a final diagnosis of Kimura disease. Patients and Methods: A total of 8 patients with a final diagnosis of Kimura disease of the head and neck region after surgery from January 2007 to December 2022 were enrolled. Results: The most common symptom was a mass in the head and neck region (n = 7), followed by incidental detection (n = 1). Multiple head and neck lesions were observed except for 1 patient with Kimura disease in the buccal space. Kimura disease could not be diagnosed in 5 patients who underwent preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology. All patients underwent surgical resection. No major complications after surgery occurred. Six patients received steroids after surgery, with 1 patient undergoing radiotherapy as a side effect of steroid treatment. During the follow-up period, 5 patients relapsed. Of the parameters assessed, only longer symptom duration was statistically significant with relapse of Kimura disease. Conclusion: Clinicians should suspect Kimura disease based on asymptomatic masses, peripheral blood eosinophilia, and imaging examinations and make a definitive diagnosis via surgery.

Morphometric Study on the Mandibular Foramen.

Aims and objectives This study aimed to analyze the mandibular foramen (MF) by identifying its average vertical and horizontal diameters, determining its localization, and assessing the prevalence of accessory mandibular foramina. Methodology The study was conducted at the Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai, India over one month in August 2024. A total of 77 human dry mandibles were examined, excluding those that were damaged to the extent that measurements could not be taken. The dimensions of the MF were measured in two directions: superoinferior and anteroposterior. Localization measurements were taken from the MF to key anatomical landmarks, including the coronoid notch, the inferior border of the ramus, the pterygomandibular raphe (third molar tooth), and the posterior border of the ramus. Measurements were recorded using digital vernier calipers and documented in Google Sheets (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA). The study also recorded the presence or absence of accessory MF. Results The superoinferior diameter of the MF was found to be 4.20 ± 0.94 mm (right (R)) and 4.28 ± 1.21 mm (left (L)). The anteroposterior diameter was found to be 3.55 ± 0.90 mm (R) and 3.60 ± 0.80 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the coronoid notch was found to be 17.60 ± 2.95 mm (R) and 17.93 ± 3.16 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the inferior border was found to be 24.61 ± 4.32 mm (R) and 24.20 ± 4.28 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the pterygomandibular raphe was found to be 20.93 ± 1.98 mm (R) and 20.63 ± 2.00 mm (L). The distance between the MF and the posterior border was found to be 11.31 ± 1.67 mm (R) and 11.70 ± 2.28 mm (L). This present study identified 20 instances of an accessory MF, with 10 occurring on each side. Additionally, 10 mandibles displayed accessory mandibular foramina on both sides. Conclusions The comprehensive analysis of the MF and its anatomical landmarks in this study offers valuable insights that enhance our understanding of mandibular anatomy, with direct implications for clinical practice. The identification of the pterygomandibular raphe as a measurable landmark from within the buccal cavity introduces a practical guide for dental practitioners and maxillofacial surgeons, potentially improving the accuracy of surgical and anesthetic procedures. Furthermore, the detailed measurements of MF width provide a foundation for refining anesthetic techniques, thereby enhancing patient outcomes. The observed prevalence of accessory MF underscores the importance of considering anatomical variability in clinical practice, highlighting the need for continuous anatomical research to advance clinical methodologies and ultimately improve patient care and surgical success.

Caligus minimus Otto, 1821 (Copepoda: Caligidae): A commercially important but poorly described parasite of cultured European Sea Bass, Dicentrarchus labrax (Linnaeus, 1758)

Caligus minimus Otto, 1821 has been known for over two centuries and it is the second oldest of the approximately 275 species of Caligus O. F. Müller, 1985. Despite the numerous records of this species from European waters, it has never been fully described to modern standards. The lack of a comprehensive modern description has resulted in numerous misidentifications, even in recently published reports, and this is especially problematic for a species that is known to have a significant economic impact in aquaculture. This study presents a detailed description of both sexes and documents newly observed features of C. minimus collected from the buccal cavity of farmed European Sea Bass (ESB), Dicentrarchus labrax (Linnaeus, 1758). The morphology of C. minimus was examined using light microscope (LM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM), and new details are revealed regarding the structure and ornamentation of the marginal membrane of the cephalothorax, maxilliped, antenna, sternal furca, abdomen, and legs 1, 3, 4, and 6. The ornamentation of the marginal membrane of the cephalothorax is unique and its impact on the functioning of the cephalothoracic sucker requires further investigation. Additionally, partial COI gene region sequences were obtained from four individuals of C. minimus and provided for future references. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted in conjunction with Caligus sequences available in the NCBI GenBank database.

A bright future for multidisciplinary approach to cancer care in the setting of limited resource

We report a case of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma of the infratemporal region in a female child. An 8year old female was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma 10 years ago. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed large mass in the right pterygopalatine fossa extending into the buccal, masticator and parapharyngeal spaces with involvement of the pterygoid and masseter muscles.Several multidisciplinary discussions were held concerning the case to determine the best treatment strategy. Child received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy. Six months post radiotherapy, CT scan reported a residual lesion for which multiple biopsies showed no residual tumor.Patient is doing well 10 years after treatment with no evidence of recurrence,Notably, this was the first case discussed at the inception of the pediatric multidisciplinary tumor board.

Modified trident technique for surgical approach to facial lipoma.

Lipomas are the most common tumors of mesenchymal origin throughout the body. Although they have low incidence in the oral cavity, they surgical approach can be challenging. 10-year-old male with a giant lipoma in the buccal and masticator space, an intraoral surgical approach was chosen using by modifying trident technique of Ramírez-Oropeza. The main advantages and limitations of this intraoral approach are examined. An intraoral approach was selected because of less possibility of injuring the facial nerve, better esthetic results and less invasive, obtaining excellent results.

Investigating dynamics, etiology, pathology, and therapeutic interventions of Caligus clemensi and Vibrio alginolyticus co-infection in farmed marine fish

This study investigated a disease outbreak characterized by caligid copepod infestations and subsequent secondary bacterial infections in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) cultivated at a private facility in the Deeba Triangle region of Egypt. Moribund fish displayed brown spots on the skin, tongue, and gills, along with lethargy and excess mucus. The fish suffered severe infections, exhibiting external hemorrhages, ulcers, and ascites. The fish had pale, enlarged livers with hemorrhaging. Comprehensive parasitological, bacteriological, molecular, immunity and histopathological analyses were conducted to identify the etiological agents and pathological changes. Caligid copepod infestation was observed in wet mounts from the buccal and branchial cavities of all examined fish, and the caligids were identified as Caligus clemensi through COI gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Vibrio alginolyticus was confirmed as a secondary bacterial infection through biochemical tests, recA gene sequencing, and phylogenetic analyses. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed resistance to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in V. alginolyticus isolates. Upregulation of the inflammatory marker IL-1β in gill and skin tissues indicated a robust cell-mediated immune response against the pathogens. Histopathological examination revealed severe tissue damage, hyperplasia, hemorrhage, and congestion in the gills, along with hepatocellular degeneration and steatosis in the liver, providing initial insights into this outbreak. A comprehensive therapeutic regimen was implemented, comprising prolonged hydrogen peroxide immersion baths, followed by the application of the nature-identical plant-based compound Lice-less and probiotic Sanolife Pro-W supplementation. This integrated approach effectively eliminated C. clemensi infestations, controlled secondary bacterial infections, and restored fish health, reducing morbidity and mortality rates to minimal levels.

Niche partitioning and host specialisation in fish-parasitising isopods: Trait-dependent patterns from three ecosystems on the east coast of India.

Due to their large size and obligate nature, Cymothoid isopods inflict a high degree of tissue damage to fish. Still, they are understudied at an ecosystem level despite their global presence and ecological role. In this work, we collected fish host-isopod parasite data, along with their life history and ecological traits, from the northern part of the east coast of India and investigated patterns in host specialisation and preference of isopod parasites using a trait-based network perspective. We observed that the region of attachment of the parasite (buccal cavity, branchial cavity, and skin) and host fish ecology (schooling behaviour and habitat characteristics) influenced host specialisation and preference. We found that branchial cavity-attaching parasites preferred schooling, pelagic fishes, whereas buccal cavity-attaching parasites preferred mostly non-schooling, demersal fishes. Skin-attaching parasites were found to be generalists and had no preference based on our examined host traits.

Effects of buccal cavity parasite Ceratothoa carinata (Isopoda, Cymothoidae) on the condition and reproduction of its host fish Japanese scad Decapterus maruadsi.

All species of the isopod family Cymothoidae are obligate fish parasites, extracting nourishment through hematophagy and tissue consumption. To elucidate the detrimental effects of this parasitic relationship upon the host fish, we examined body length, weight of body, gonad, liver and stomach contents, and condition factor of Japanese scad Decapterus maruadsi infected with the buccal cavity parasite Ceratothoa carinata in different seasons. During the host fish's breeding season in July, the wet weight and condition factor of male and female host fish ages 1 and 2 were conspicuously diminished. No impacts were detected in September, after the breeding season. We found no impact of the parasite on the stomach content weight or signs of prey fish in the stomachs. Thus, parasite infection with C. carinata potentially diminishes the reproductive success of the host fish by negatively impacting the host's physiological condition, particularly during the breeding season.

A REVIEW ON BASIC PRINCIPLES OF MUCOADHESION: THE IMPORTANCE OF CHITOSAN AS A MUCOADHESIVE BIOPOLYMER

Mucoadhesive polymers have the special functions which lead to adhesion to the mucin/ epithelial surface on the mucus-covered areas in the body such as eye, nose, vaginal and buccal cavities, and GI tract. Therefore, they provide to increase the residence time of the dosage form on the mucosa and to significantly improve the drug administration. Mucoadhesive drug delivery systems containing chitosan and its modified derivatives have many advantages for both local and systemic drug delivery. The goal of this review is to put forward the importance of chitosan as a functionalized mucoadhesive drug delivery system.

Revolutionizing Brain Drug Delivery: Buccal Transferosomes on the Verge of a Breakthrough.

The buccal cavity, also known as the oral cavity, is a complex anatomical structure that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. It serves as a gateway to the digestive system and facilitates the initial stages of food digestion and absorption. However, its significance extends beyond mere digestion as it presents a promising route for drug delivery, particularly to the brain. Transferosomes are lipid-based vesicles that have gained significant attention in the field of drug delivery due to their unique structure and properties. These vesicles are composed of phospholipids that form bilayer structures capable of encapsulating both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs. Strategies for the development of buccal transferosomes for brain delivery have emerged as promising avenues for pharmaceutical research. This review aims to explore the various approaches and challenges associated with harnessing the potential of buccal transferosomes as a means of enhancing drug delivery to the brain. By understanding the structure and function of both buccal tissue and transferosomes, researchers can develop effective formulation methods and characterization techniques to optimize drug delivery. Furthermore, strategic approaches and success stories in buccal transferosome development are highlighted, showcasing inspiring examples that demonstrate their potential to revolutionize brain delivery.

Identification of Boveria labialis parasitism in the respiratory tree of the Cultured Sea cucumber, Apostichopus japonicus

Aquaculture of the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus has emerged as a pivotal industry in northern China in the early 21st century. It is estimated that the cultivation area for this species spans 250,356 ha, yielding an annual production of 248,508 tons. The swift growth and intensification of sea cucumber farming practices have triggered a spectrum of diseases, resulting in significant economic detriment. This study offers an exhaustive account of a particular ciliate species, identified through smear and histopathological observations, hematoxylin-eosin staining, scanning electron microscopy, and molecular biology techniques, detailing its morphology, size, cellular architecture, and reproductive mode. The ciliate exhibits a torch-like shape, measuring 40–82 μm in length and 12–35 μm in width. It is characterized by the presence of both a macronucleus and a micronucleus. The anterior end is slender and blunt, while the posterior end is the widest part of the organism. A peristomal disc (PD) is situated at the body's terminus, with the mouth positioned centrally on the PD and a lip-like projection (6–10 μm in length) extending from one side. The organism's surface, particularly the area surrounding the oral region, is adorned with an abundance of long cilia. A single contractile vacuole is observable at the aboral end of the ciliate. It possesses 17–21 somatic kineties, complemented by 3 membranelles (M1, M2, M3) and a paroral membrane (PM) within the buccal cavity. One contractile vacuole was seen at the aboral end. There were 17–21 somatic kineties, while three membranes (M1, M2, M3) and a paroral membrane (PM) located within the buccal cavity. The first somatic kinety is notably more extended than the others, uniquely reaching a length of 10 μm around the PM. The PM, comprised of 2 somatic kineties in a “zig-zag” formation, follows a spiral path, making approximately 360-degree turns in conjunction with M1, M2, and M3, and culminates at the mouth depression. The ciliate reproduces through transverse binary fission or sexual conjugation. Based on these distinguishing features and molecular biological identification results, the ciliate is provisionally classified within the genus Boveria, as Boveria labialis. Histopathological examination has shown that these ciliates are predominantly found within the respiratory trees of their hosts, where they inflict damage to the epithelial tissues. This damage manifests as cell necrosis, structural disintegration, and the shedding of cells from the respiratory tree's epithelial lining. In severe cases, the affected respiratory tree and other viscera may be expelled. Epidemiological studies have indicated that infected individuals do not present with any overt external lesions. The findings of this research are instrumental for the management of diseases and the promotion of health within the sea cucumber aquaculture industry.

Influence of endodontic access cavity design on mechanical properties of a first mandibular premolar tooth: a finite element analysis study

ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the influence of access cavity designs on the mechanical properties of a single-rooted mandibular first premolar tooth under various static loads using a finite element analysis.Materials and methods3-dimensional FEA designs were modeled according to the access cavity designs: an intact tooth (control), traditional access cavity (TEC-I), traditional access cavity with Class-II mesio-occlusal cavity design (TEC-II), conservative access cavity (CEC), ninja access cavity (NEC), caries-driven access cavity (Cd-EC), buccal access cavity (BEC) and bucco-occlusal access cavity (BOEC). After the simulated access cavity preparations, root canal treatment was simulated and three different static loads which mimicked oblique and vertical mastication forces were applied to the models. The stress distribution and maximum Von Misses stress values were recorded. The maximum stress values were obtained on both enamel and dentin under multi-point vertical loads.ResultsThe maximum stress values were obtained on both enamel and dentin under multi-point vertical loads. Under all load types, the minimum stress distribution was observed in the control group, followed by CEC, NEC and BEC designs. The highest stress concentration was detected in Cd-EC and TEC-II designs. Under single-point vertical loading, the stress was mostly concentrated in the lingual PCD area, while under multi-point vertical loading, the entire root surface was stress-loaded except for the lingual apical third of the root.ConclusionPreserving tooth tissue by simulating CEC, NEC and BEC access cavities increased the load capacity of a single-rooted mandibular first premolar following simulated endodontic treatment.

A new diagnostic technique for identifying Angiostrongylus spp. larvae in intermediate snail species by examining the buccal cavity

BackgroundAngiostrongyliasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The intermediate hosts of A. cantonensis are gastropods, and snail species such as Pomacea canaliculata play a key role in the transmission of human angiostrongyliasis. Detecting A. cantonensis infection in snails is an important component of epidemiological surveillance and the control of angiostrongyliasis.MethodsIn this study, a new method for diagnosing A. cantonensis infection in gastropods was developed by recovering larvae from the buccal cavity of three snail species. The entire buccal cavity of a snail was extracted, and the tissue was pressed between two microscope slides to observe whether A. cantonensis larvae were present. Our new method was compared with traditional pathogenic detection methods of lung microscopy, tissue homogenization, and artificial digestion. We artificially infected 160 P. canaliculata, 160 Cipangopaludina chinensis, and 160 Bellamya aeruginosa snails with A. cantonensis. Then, the four different detection methods were used to diagnose infection in each snail species at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days post exposure.ResultsWe found no significant difference in the percentages of infected P. canaliculata snails using the four methods to detect A. cantonensis larvae. The radula pressing method had a mean detection rate of 80%, while the lung microscopy (81.3%), tissue homogenization (83.8%), and artificial digestion (85%) methods had slightly greater detection rates. Similarly, the percentages of infected C. chinensis snails that were detected using the radula pressing (80%), tissue homogenization (82.1%), and artificial digestion (83.8%) methods were not significantly different. Finally, the percentages of infected B. aeruginosa snails that were detected using the radula pressing (81.3%), tissue homogenization (81.9%), and artificial digestion (81.4%) methods were not significantly different. These results showed that the radula pressing method had a similar detection rate to traditional lung microscopy, tissue homogenization, or artificial digestion methods.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates a new method for the qualitative screening of gastropods that act as intermediate hosts of A. cantonensis (and other Angiostrongylus species), provides technical support for the control of human angiostrongyliasis, and furthers research on A. cantonensis.Graphical

Mixed-Micelle in Situ Gel as a Candidate for Oral Inflammatory Ulcerative Diseases.

The current treatment for oral inflammatory ulcerative diseases has limitations. In situ forming hydrogels have shown great potential to deliver therapeutic substances for drug delivery to the buccal cavity. This study aimed to prepare and characterize lipid- and surfactant-based mixed micelle in situ gel (MIG) and evaluate whether it can offer more favorable properties than the in situ gel for effective treatment of the disease. Dexamethasone was incorporated into the MIGs particles, based on Poloxamer 407 and chitosan. The lower gelation time at 37 ℃ was considered a criterion to select superior formulations among the different lipid- and surfactant-based candidates. Further characterization was performed to evaluate the opted formulations regarding morphology, physical stability, rheology, texture, and release profile. All formulations were thermoresponsive and had a shorter gelation time as the temperature increased. Dexamethasone was released in a highly controlled manner, and morphological evaluation revealed that the mixed micellein situ gels had spherical nanoparticles. Thixotropic behavior was observed in all MIGs, indicating a prolonged retention time of the formulation after oral administration. This study has shown that among different MIGs, the one with oleic acid is a more promising candidate than the in situ gel and other MIGs for drug delivery to the buccal cavity.

Description of Amphimonhystrella sinica sp. nov. and Cobbia zhangi sp. nov. of the family Xyalidae (Nematoda: Monhysterida) from the Yellow Sea, China

Two new species of free-living marine nematodes belonging to the family Xyalidae are described from the Yellow Sea, China. Amphimonhystrella sinica sp. nov. is characterized by rhomboid-shaped buccal cavity, circular amphidial fovea relatively far from anterior end of body, slender L-shaped spicules with cephalated proximal end and hooked distal end, tubular gubernaculum with ventrally curved apophyses, slender tail conico-cylindrical with half cylindrical distal part. Cobbia zhangi sp. nov. is characterized by having three similar equal-sized teeth, anterior sensilla arrangement 6+10, slightly curved spicules cephalated proximally and tapered distally, gubernaculum rod-like without apophysis, tail with posterior three fourths filiform part. Updated dichotomous keys to species of Amphimonhystrella and Cobbia are given. Considering the descriptions in the present work, the two genera contain now 9 and 12 valid species, respectively; this study complemented the species diversity of nematodes in Chinese sea area.

Anatomy of the Buccal Space: Surgical and Radiological Perspectives.

Among the anatomical spaces in the head and neck area, the buccal space has often been studied in dental/oral surgery and cosmetic surgery because it contains the facial vessels, mandibular and facial nerves, and adipose tissue called the buccal fat pad. In addition, as the space can communicate with other spaces, it can be significant in infections. Although the anatomy of the buccal space has been reported in several studies, there have been discrepancies concerning its boundaries, and its communications have often been overlooked. The aim of this review is to examine the anatomy of buccal space including its boundaries, contents, continuity with adjacent spaces, and clinical significance. A literature review was performed on Google Scholar and PubMed. The literature has depicted the anterior, medial, and lateral boundaries more or less consistently, but descriptions of the posterior, superior, and inferior borders are controversial. The buccal space includes the facial arteries, veins, facial nerves, parotid duct, and lymph nodes, which can be described differently depending on definitions and the extent of the space. As it communicates with other anatomical spaces including the masticatory space, it can be a reservoir and a channel for infections and tumors. Buccal fat pads have various clinical applications, from a candidate for flap reconstruction to a target for removal for cosmetic purposes. This review will help understand the anatomy of the buccal space including its boundaries, residing structures, and communication with other spaces from surgical and radiological perspectives.

Reductitherus cryptostomus n. gen., n. sp. (Ciliophora: Armophorea: Clevelandellida), a remarkable new nyctotherid from an Australian cockroach, Parapanesthia gigantea (Blaberidae: Panesthiinae)

Ciliates of the family Nyctotheridae (Armophorea: Clevelandellida) are frequent intestinal symbionts of various invertebrates and some poikilotherm vertebrates. Depending on the classification scheme, there are between 15 and 18 recognized genera of Nyctotheridae, the majority of which exhibit a rather uniform morphology. They have round to ellipsoidal cells with an adoral zone of membranelles that begins anteriorly in an adoral groove and continues posteriorly into the buccal cavity where it extends deep into the cell in the peristomial funnel. The taxonomy of the Nyctotheridae is primarily based on the number and location of kinetal sutures. The only known divergence from the relatively conservative nyctortherid body plan are the bizarre symbionts of Panesthiinae cockroaches, ciliates of the family Clevelandellidae, which forms a clade nested within the Nyctotheridae genus Nyctotherus. In this study we report another ciliate that diverges morphologically from the canonical Nyctotheridae body plan, and which is also found in Panesthiinae hosts. The novel ciliate Reductitherus cryptostomus n. gen., n. sp. differs from the rest of Nyctotheridae by absence of the anterior adoral groove, a shortened adoral zone completely enclosed in a notably small buccal cavity, and two strongly reduced kinetal sutures, one left anterodorsal and the other right posterodorsal.