Reappraisal of the morphological and morphometric study of the psoas minor muscle with clinical and developmental insights: cadaveric study.

BACKGROUND: The Psoas Minor (PMi) is the most unstable muscle of the psoas group of the posterior abdominal muscle. This muscle has a fusiform shape and consists of a short fusiform belly continuing distally as a long tendon inserted on the pecten pubis and the iliopectineal arch. The present study was conducted to obtain more detailed information about the muscle and to expand knowledge about its morphology and morphometry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The posterior abdominal wall of 30 adult cadavers was dissected. Anatomical variabilities in origin, insertion, length, width, and muscle-to-cone ratio were measured when PMi was found. The data collected was interpreted descriptively. RESULTS: PMi was found in 12 cases, ten bilateral and two unilateral. The origin was constant in all cases and, except for three cases, extended into the iliac fascia and the iliopubic eminence. Morphometric analysis revealed that the average length of the proximal muscle belly and distal tendons was 4.52 ± 1.35 cm and 13.05 ± 0.90 cm, respectively. The mean width of the muscle belly was 1.71 ± 0.17 cm, and that of the tendon was 0.47 ± 0.10 cm. On average, the muscle belly occupied the proximal 33.71 ± 6.15% of the total musculotendinous unit. CONCLUSIONS: Findings confirm the inconsistency of PMi in the study population. Morphological variations became more evident as the tendon approached the insertion level. The muscle's distal attachment to the iliac fascia may partially control the position, mechanical stability of the underlying iliopsoas and this circumstantial function may be clinically related to iliopsoas inflammation and pathology. However, further studies recommended to determine biomechanical validity and clinical applicability of this vestigial muscle in human.

Exploring the variations of the pancreatic ductal system: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

The exocrine part of the pancreas has a duct system called the pancreatic ductal system (PDS). Its mechanism of development is complex, and any reorganization during early embryogenesis can give rise to anatomical variants. The aim of this study is to collect, classify, and analyze published evidence on the importance of anatomical variants of the PDS, addressing gaps in our understanding of such variations. The MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar databases were searched to identify publications relevant to this review. R studio with meta-package was used for data extraction, risk of bias estimation, and statistical analysis. A total of 64 studies out of 1,778 proved suitable for this review and metanalysis. The meta-analysis computed the prevalence of normal variants of the PDS (92% of 10,514 subjects). Type 3 variants and "descending" subtypes of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) predominated in the pooled samples. The mean lengths of the MPD and accessory pancreatic duct (APD) were 16.53 cm and 3.36 cm, respectively. The mean diameters of the MPD at the head and the APD were 3.43 mm and 1.69 mm, respectively. The APD was present in only 41% of samples, and the long type predominated. The pancreatic ductal anatomy is highly variable, and the incorrect identification of variants may be challenging for surgeons during ductal anastomosis with gut, failure to which may often cause ductal obstruction or pseudocysts formation.

Reappraisal of the anatomical diversities of the pyramidalis muscle with their potential clinical applicability: cadaveric analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The present study examined the morphology and morphometric parameters of the pyramidalis muscle (PM) in detail with their potential applicability in making midline infra-umbilical incisions and biomechanics of the linea alba. METHODS: PM was examined in 51 formalin-fixed cadavers (36 males and 15 females), and based on the mode of insertion or the level of apex, the formation or shape of the muscle was classified into nine types (Mori's classification). RESULTS: Bilateral PM was more prevalent (39.21%) than unilateral (1.96%) (p = 0.001). All the cases showed side symmetry except one. Mori's type 7 (right PM is higher apex and the left PM with elongated origin) was the most common form. The mean length of PM in males and females was 4.51 ± 0.14 and 3.33 ± 0.12 cm on the right and 4.51 ± 0.11 and 3.26 ± 0.16 cm on the left side. The mean width of right-sided PMs in males and females was 1.90 ± 0.17 and 1.58 ± 0.13 cm and left-sided 1.88 ± 0.14 and 1.55 ± 0.38 cm. The mean of pyramidalis-pubo-umbilical index (PPI) in males and females was 32.82 ± 1.65 and 27.50 ± 1.08, respectively. The mean insertion angle was 24.56 ± 3.07 on right side and 23 ± 2.03 on the left side (p = 0.03). Male predominance existed on right- and left-sided PM length (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001), width (p = 0.001) and PPI (p = 0.001). The strong positive correlation (r = 0.83) between length and width indicates a symmetrical muscle augmentation in the two dimensions. CONCLUSION: PM is an inconsistent anatomical structure with persistent morphology. The level and angle of insertion into the linea are crucial in the biomechanics of linea alba. PPI, determining the termination level would be useful to surgeons making midline infra-umbilical incisions.

Absence of the interthalamic adhesion (ITA) as a neuroanatomical association or risk factor for neuropsychiatric disorders: A systemic review and meta-analysis.

Background: This study aimed to provide an up-to-date account of the frequency of "the absence of interthalamic adhesion (AITA) as a risk factor or association" in healthy subjects and neuropsychiatric patients. Owing to the increased interest in the contribution of ITA to neurological function in previous literature, a meta-analysis of its frequency and sex dependency is required. Aim: This study aimed to study whether the AITA is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Settings and Design: This study is a meta-analysis and systemic review. Methods and Material: Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using the keywords "interthalamic adhesion," "massa intermedia," "adhesio interthalamica," and "adhesion" along with the Boolean operators (OR, AND, and NOT). Three reviewers independently assessed the abstracts and full texts for validation based on the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel 2019 for descriptive studies and RevMan 5.2 for comparative studies. Results: The incidence of absent ITA was 15.3% in healthy subjects and 28.76% in neuropsychiatric subjects. The relative probability of AITA was 2.30 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.96-2.70] in neuropsychiatric illness. Healthy men were 1.91 times more likely, and men with neuropsychiatric disorders were 1.82 times more likely to have absent ITA than women. Conclusions and Relevance: In this study, a consistent association of AITA with psychiatric disorders was observed, rendering the condition to be treated as an associated risk factor affecting the function of the habenula nuclear complex via the stria medullaris thalami. A cohort or longitudinal study is needed to compare the incidence of psychiatric disorders in individuals with or without ITA and to calculate the attributed risk.

Analysis of the Variations in the Morphology, Topography of the Pterion, and Their Implications in Neurosurgery: An Osteometric Study.

Objective Pterion is an "H" shaped formation of sutures located in the temporal fossa of the skull. It is an important anatomical landmark and a craniometric point. The thinness of the skull and its inner relation with the middle meningeal artery make this anatomical landmark clinically significant. Variations in the pterion are imperative, especially for neurosurgeons in order to have the most suitable craniometric point to be minimally invasive. Materials and Methods One hundred pterions were studied to report the variations in the type and location of the pterion. Murphy's classification was used to classify the pterion into four types on the basis of bone articulation-sphenoparietal, frontotemporal, stellate, and epipteric. Results All four types of pterions were observed, sphenoparietal being the most common. No significant gender difference was observed in terms of type and laterality of various pterions. The mean distance between the center of pterion to the superolateral point of zygomaticotemporal (PZT) suture and the anterolateral point of the frontozygomatic (PFZ) suture were 3.91 ± 3.79 cm and 3.68 ± 3.79 mm, respectively. Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relation between PZT and PFZ sutures. Conclusion Accurate data on the morphology and morphometry of bony anatomical points are crucial, while performing intracranial surgery using them as recognizable landmarks. The morphometric parameters may help in determining the soundness of the pterion as an identifiable landmark for performing interventions like burr hole and other neurosurgical procedures in this area.

Teacher or Researcher: Who Comes First in Medical Academia?

The field of medical academia presents a unique challenge in the professional development of individuals, as it requires balancing two distinct roles: that of a teacher and that of a researcher. This dilemma arises from the inherent tension between the educational responsibilities of imparting knowledge and the scholarly pursuits of generating new knowledge. In this commentary, we seek to explore the question of whether teachers or researchers should take precedence in the medical academic setting.

Reappraisal of the variational anatomy of the vermiform appendix and their possible clinical applicability: a cadaveric analysis.

BACKGROUND: The anatomical variations in the position, length, arterial supply and extension of mesoappendix of the vermiform appendix (VA) are pivotal to establishing a standard pattern in the study population of known ethnicity and their clinical applicability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted on 47 adult human cadavers, thirty-five males and twelve female subjects of North Indian ethnicity. RESULTS: Retrocaecal appendix was found in 23 cases (48.9%) followed by pelvic in 13 (27.7%), three cases each of pre-ileal, post-ileal, and promontoric (6.4%), one case (2.1%) each of paracaecal and subcaecal reported. The length of VA varied from three to ten centimetres, averaging about 7.37±1.67 cm, both the shortest (2.9 cm) (female) and longest (10 cm) (male) were of retrocaecal type. The main appendicular artery (MAA) showed a widely varied branching pattern within the mesoappendix, ranging from three to seven. Fourteen cases (29.78%) showed the accessory appendicular artery (AAA) or dual arterial supply, arising from the ileocolic artery in ten (21%) and in four from the post-caecal (9%). In the specimens with dual arterial supply, the estimated portions of the VA supplied by the MAA also vary with distal ¾th being supplied in 57.14%. In ten cases (21%), the mesoappendix failed to reach the tip of the VF. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge of anatomical diversities in position, length, course, arterial supply, branching pattern, and mesoappendix is potentially crucial in avoiding surgical catastrophes. Atypical positions of the organ can cause diagnostic confusion and result in delayed treatment. VF supplied by an end artery is one of the causes of the occurrence of appendicitis and mesoappendix not reaching the tip making the organ more vulnerable to necrosis. Vascular variations and anomalies involving the main or accessory appendicular artery are critical to prevent haemorrhage or faulty ligatures.

Parameters Affecting the Kidney Size in Individuals without Known Renal Pathology: an Ultrasonographic Study.

Background:Renal size can be affected by various causal elements such as age, sex, and demographic characteristics. It is crucial for medical professionals to consider these factors when making clinical decisions. The purpose of this investigation was to establish normograms for renal measurements and explore their association with the anthropometric variables in the natives of Northern India. Methods:A total of 105 individuals with presumed healthy kidneys were enrolled in the present study. Kidney length, width and parenchymal thickness were measured, and data were analysed to identify potential differences related to age, gender and side. Correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between kidney measurements and body biometrics, including body height, body weight, body mass index (BMI) and body surface area (BSA). Results:Mean values for kidney length, width and parenchymal thickness in the 209 kidneys analysed were as follows: right kidney - length 10.65 ± 1.34 cm, width 4.5 ± 0.42 cm and parenchymal thickness 0.91 ± 0.16 cm; left kidney - length 10.7 ± 1.69 cm, width 4.78 ± 1.26 cm and parenchymal thickness 0.76 ± 0.40 cm. Thickness showed significant differences between the right and left kidneys. No significant differences in renal parameters were found between males and females. Analysis based on age groups revealed an increase in renal length and thickness with advancing age, while width decreased in the middle age group (31-40 years) and then increased. Weak positive correlations were observed between kidney parameters and body height, body weight, BSA, and BMI. Conclusion:Renal parameters can vary among different populations depending on age, demographic characteristics, and ethnicity. Therefore, relying on commonly cited values for renal sonographic interpretation or clinical decision-making may not be appropriate. Interpreting renal measurements should be based on reference data specific to the studied population.

Students' Perception of Newly Experimented "Rangoli Art" in Anatomy Education: A Pilot Study.

Art and drawing have a well-established history with the teaching and learning of anatomy, as symbolized by Leonardo Da Vinci's Vitruvian Man. However, its efficacy relatively declined in modern anatomy education. The purpose of this study was to survey students' views regarding the "anatomy Rangoli-making activity" and to discern if this art form may be implicated in anatomy education. In this group activity, the basic anatomical drawing of the specific structure was made on the floor, and then the different structures in the illustration were filled with relevant powdered Rangoli colors. The present study was conducted on seventy-eight first-year medical students who were willing to participate in the study. A mixed questionnaire regarding their opinion on the "anatomy Rangoli-making activity" was designed and feedback was taken from the students. The majority of the students replied that the Rangoli-making activity was interesting, promoted team spirit, and improved confidence to draw and understand the concept of the diagrams. The students agreed that it is an innovative method of anatomy learning. Almost 99% of students suggested incorporating such art activities in anatomy learning for future students. The enthusiastic response of the students to this activity is encouraging to introduce such art base activities in anatomy education and learning. Future multicenter studies on this learning method may be planned to check its efficacy.

Medical Faculty Perspectives Toward Cadaveric Dissection as a Learning Tool for Anatomy Education: A Survey Study in India.

Cadaveric dissection, as a learning tool, has been a part of Indian medical education. Worldwide, with reforms in medical education and the introduction of new learning modalities, cadaveric dissection has been complemented with other modalities such as living anatomy and virtual anatomy. This study aims to collect the feedback of faculty members regarding the role of dissection in the present context of medical education. The method of the study involved a 32-item questionnaire to collect responses; they were collected using the 5-point Likert scale along with two open-ended questions. In general, the closed questions covered these sections: learning styles, interpersonal skills, teaching and learning, dissection, and other learning modes. The principal component analysis was used to explore the multivariate relationships among the items' perceptions. The multivariate regression analysis was conducted between the construct and the latent variable to develop the structural equation model. Four themes, PC1 (learning ability with structural orientation), PC2 (interpersonal skill), PC3 (multimedia-virtual tool), and PC5 (associated factors) had positive relation and were treated as a latent variable motivation for dissection, and theme 4 (PC4, safety) had a negative correlation and was treated as a latent variable repulsion for dissection. It was found that the dissection room is an important place for learning clinical and personal skills, along with empathy, in anatomy education. Safety issues and implementation of stress-coping activities during the induction phase are required. There is also a need to use mixed-method approaches that integrate technology-enhanced learning such as virtual anatomy, living anatomy, and radiological anatomy with cadaveric dissection.

Advances in Microscopy and Its Applications with Special Reference to Fluorescence Microscope: An Overview.

The microscope has revolutionized the understanding of an organism's structural details and cellular functions. With the invention of highly evolved microscopes, the diagnosis and treatment of diseases has gained momentum. Technology has immensely helped demonstrate cellular events like phagocytosis, cell movement, cell division, etc. with enhanced temporal and spatial resolution. One of these advanced inventions is the fluorescent microscope which has enabled scanning through various physiological activities of the cell. A fluorescence microscope uses the property of fluorescence to create an image. In addition to visualizing the structural details of the cells, a fluorescence microscope also aids in witnessing cellular activities. With an immunofluorescence microscope, cellular antigens can be localized. This chapter highlights the basics of microscopy, types of microscopes, principles, and types of fluorescence microscopes, and recent advances in microscopy and its application.

Visualization in Anatomy Education.

In the post-pandemic era, one of the significant challenges for anatomy teachers is to reciprocate the experience of practical exposure while teaching the subject to undergraduates. These challenges span from conducting cadaveric dissections to handling real human bones, museum specimens, and tissue sections in the histology lab. Such exposures help the instructors to develop interactive communication with their fellow students and thus help to enhance communication skills among them. Recently, anatomy teachers all over the world started using cutting-edge educational technologies to make teaching-learning experiences for students more engaging, interesting, and interactive. Utilizing such cutting-edge educational technologies was an "option" prior to the pandemic, but the pandemic has significantly altered the situation. What was previously an "option" is now a "compulsion." Despite the fact that the majority of medical schools have resumed their regular on-campus classes, body donation and the availability of cadavers remain extremely limited, resulting in a deadlock. Anatomy teachers must incorporate cutting-edge educational technologies into their teaching and learning activities to make the subject more visual. In this chapter, we have attempted to discuss various new technologies which can provide a near-realistic perception of anatomical structures as a complementary tool for dissection/cadaver, various visualization techniques currently available and explore their importance as a pedagogic alternative in learning anatomy. We also discussed the recent advancement in visualization techniques and the pros and cons of technology-based visualization. This chapter identifies the limitations of technology-based visualization as a supplement and discusses effective utilization as an adjunct to the conventional pedagogical approaches to undergraduate anatomy education.

The Reliability of Kaplan's Cardinal Line as a Potential Surface Marker for the Superficial Palmar Arch During Carpal Tunnel Release: An Anatomical Study With Surgical Perspective.

Purpose Kaplan's cardinal line (KCL) provides a more accurate reference point to the superficial palmar arch (SPA). The aim was to determine the KCL-SPA distances and their relationship with the other defined superficial landmarks, such as distal wrist crease (DWC) or distal portion of the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) or DWC-TCL distance. The objective was to determine the distal limit of the incision made during carpal tunnel release (CTR). Methods Sixty hands were dissected after KCL was drawn on each hand using standard methods. The distance from KCL to the SPA was measured along the radial and ulnar borders of the ring finger and recorded as radial and ulnar KCL-SPA distance, respectively. The distance between the DWC and the distal portion of the TCL was also measured (DWC-TCL). Correlation analysis was done between the DWC-TCL and KCL-SPA distance. The ratios between the radial and ulnar KCL-SPA distance and DWC-TCL distance were calculated and mentioned as radial and ulnar Kaplan cardinal index, respectively. Results KCL-SPA distance was 6.8±3.7 mm along the radial border and 6.6±3.6 mm along the ulnar border of the ring finger. The DWC-TCL distance was 29.4±1.2 mm. The means of radial and ulnar Kaplan cardinal indices were 0.23 and 0.22, respectively. A significant correlation was found between the DWC-TCL distance and the KCL-SPA distances. Conclusion Clinically, KCL can be appraised as a predictable surface landmark in limiting the distal-most extent of the incision during CTR and protecting SPA from transection. The SPA was found to lie at a variable distance from the KCL, and the minimum distance was found to be 3.3 mm. This should be considered as the maximum permissible extension of CTR incision beyond KCL.

Moynihan's hump of the right hepatic artery in Calot's triangle: a systematic review and meta-analysis of its incidence and surgical importance.

INTRODUCTION: A rare variation known as "Moynihan's or caterpillar hump" of the right hepatic artery raises the danger of vascular and biliary injuries during hepatobiliary surgery. This research intends to carefully record every case (i.e., patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy or cadaver dissections) where the right hepatic artery received a caterpillar hump. METHODS: The literature search was conducted with the medical subject headings (MeSH) and EMTREE (subject headings unique to Embase) keywords. The keywords with Boolean operators (OR, AND, and NOT) were used to create search strings in all possible combinations to retrieve bibliographic data. Two authors independently performed a risk of bias assessment and data extraction. The random effects model was used to conduct a meta-analysis. RESULTS: Thirty studies with a total of 8418 subjects reported that Moynihan's hump was present in 3.81% of them, with a predictive interval of 0.88-16.45%. The incidence of the hump was 3.1% in surgical studies (7496 subjects) and 7.22% (95% CI 4.7-10.93%) in cadaveric data (625 cadavers). Only ten studies addressed the relationship between the caterpillar hump and the common bile duct. CONCLUSION: A patient with an unusually "small cystic artery" or "large right hepatic artery" is likely to have a "caterpillar hump". The caterpillar's hump of the right hepatic artery is subject to rare anatomical variations in its course that increase the risk of incorrect vessel ligation or injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Identification of valid anatomical landmarks to locate and protect recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroid surgery: a cadaveric study.

PURPOSE: Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is the most critical structure in terms of intricacy. Anatomic variations of the nerve may further make thyroid surgery cumbersome. The present study was undertaken to provide comprehensive knowledge about the soundness of commonly used anatomical landmarks such as Berry's ligament (BL), tracheo-esophageal groove (TEG), inferior thyroid artery (ITA), and the midpoint of the posterior border of the thyroid gland in the identification of the nerve intraoperatively. METHODS: Thirty adult cadavers were dissected to identify the RLN in the neck and to locate it in relation to the aforementioned anatomical landmarks. RESULTS: The RLN/BL relationship: RLN was most often located superficial to the BL (88.3%), followed by deep to the BL in 8.4%, and piercing the BL in 3.3% of cases, respectively. The RLN/TEG relationship: the RLN was located inside the TEG in most cases (71.7%), followed by RLN lying outside the TEG in 28.3%. Outside the groove, it was most commonly found lateral to the TEG (64.7%). RLN/ITA relationship: the nerve was passing deep to the artery in most of the cases (65%), followed by superficial (30%) and rarely (5%) in-between the branches. RLN/ midpoint posterior border of thyroid relationship: In 57 (95%) cases, RLN was coursing in the area posterior to the midpoint of the posterior border of the gland with an average distance of 4.95 ± 2.23 mm ranging between 2.21 and 12.1 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Both the BL and TEG are potentially crucial for safeguarding RLN. Although in results, BL turns out to be more consistent than TEG, we propose the utilization of both these anatomical landmarks together for complication-free neck surgeries. Furthermore, the midpoint of the posterior border of the thyroid turns out to be the single most consistent landmark for identifying RLN during partial thyroidectomy.

The Prevalence, Location, and Dimensions Of Interthalamic Adhesions and Their Clinical Significance: Corpse Brain Analysis.

Background Interthalamic adhesion (ITA) or massa intermedia is a midline rod-like neural structure interconnecting the medial surfaces of two thalami. Its absence is considered as a midline defect associated with schizophrenia spectrum disorder. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence, location, and dimensions of the ITA in South Asian brains. Materials and Methods One hundred midsagittal sections of adult cadaveric brains were examined for the presence or absence of ITAs, their location about the lateral wall of the third ventricle, and their dimensions. Results ITA was found in 86 sections. In two cases, it was double. There was no significant relationship between the incidence of ITAs and sex ( p > 0.05). The ITA was most commonly located in the anterosuperior quadrant. The horizontal diameter was 4.61 ± 1.17 mm, and the vertical diameter was 3.10 ± 0.78 mm. In all cases, the horizontal diameter was longer than the vertical. The average area of the ITA was significantly larger in females (17.56 ± 5.26 mm 2 ) than in males (13.62 ± 5.22 mm 2 ) ( p = 0.025). Conclusion Presence of ITA is common in South Asian brains, with usual location in the anterosuperior quadrant of the lateral wall of the third ventricle. The cross-sectional area of the ITA was significantly larger in females than in males. No correlation was found between the surface area of the ITA and the length of the third ventricle.

Effectiveness of 3D-printed models prepared from radiological data for anatomy education: A meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of 22 randomized, controlled, crossover trials.

BACKGROUND: Many academicians suggested the supplementary use of 3D-printed models reconstructed from radiological images for optimal anatomy education. 3D-printed model is newer technology available to us. The purpose of this systematic review was to capture the usefulness or effectiveness of this newer technology in anatomy education. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-two studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for quantitative synthesis. The included studies were sub-grouped according to the interventions and participants. No restrictions were applied based on geographical location, language and publication years. Randomized, controlled trial, cross-sectional and cross-over designs were included. The effect size of each intervention in both participants was computed as a standardized mean difference (SMD). RESULTS: Twenty-two randomized, controlled trials were included for quantitative estimation of effect size of knowledge acquisition as standardized mean difference in 1435 participants. The pooled effect size for 3D-printed model was 0.77 (0.45-1.09, 95% CI, P < 0.0001) with 86% heterogeneity. The accuracy score was measured in only three studies and estimated effect size was 2.81 (1.08-4.54, 95% CI, P = 0.001) with 92% heterogeneity. The satisfaction score was examined by questionnaire in 6 studies. The estimated effect size was 2.00 (0.69-3.32, 95% CI, P = 0.003) with significant heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: The participants exposed to the 3D-printed model performed better than participants who used traditional methodologies. Thus, the 3D-printed model is a potential tool for anatomy education.

The potential scope of a humanoid robot in anatomy education: a review of a unique proposal.

INTRODUCTION: Applications based on artificial intelligence and machine learning are becoming more popular in teaching learning. Advanced technologies have facilitated robots to carry out various human-like functions, which have navigated the interest of educators to discover the role of robots as potential teachers, instructors, or teaching assistants in education. METHODS: An extensive search for articles for humanoid robots and education either in the title or keywords was done utilizing PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science data sets. The tracking terms were artificial intelligence, education, medical education, anatomy, robots, humanoid robots, teaching, teaching assistant and tutor. RESULTS: The usage of artificial intelligence in the form of humanoid robots is quite common. However, literature citing its usage in medical education is rare. Humanoid robots as a teacher or teaching assistants are predominantly used in learning foreign languages. Primarily, a humanoid robot can discharge five functions as a potential teacher. CONCLUSION: Humanoid robots can effectively fulfil numerous educational goals in medicine since they can replicate human responses, work relentlessly regardless of students' repeated mistakes, be loaded with innovative teaching methodologies, and be upgraded with more current information. As a subject of medicine, anatomy is highly visual; therefore, constant endeavors have been initiated to develop technology-enhanced learning over the decades. Although artificial intelligence in humanoid robots has been successfully used in primary education and in learning a foreign language, its scope as an anatomy teacher or teaching assistant is a new and unique idea that needs exploration.

The Morphology and Morphometry of the Human Interthalamic Adhesion Using Cadaveric Brains and Magnetic Resonance Images and Their Clinical Significance.

AIM: An interthalamic adhesion (ITA) is a midplane rod-like neuroanatomical mass connecting two thalami over the cavity of the third ventricle. It is present in approximately 70-80% of healthy humans. The absence of an ITA has been considered as a midline defect of the brain associated with schizophrenia. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence, location, and dimensions of ITAs in Indian brains. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We examined 100 brains (50 cadaveric and 50 MR images) in the midsagittal plane for the presence or absence of ITAs, their location in the lateral wall of the third ventricle, and dimensions. RESULTS: ITA found in 87 brains (87%), four showed duplication (4%). Both its duplication and absence were more frequent among male. It was most commonly located in the anterosuperior quadrant with posterosuperior extension. The mean of horizontal diameter (7.13±4.31 mm) was longer than the vertical (5.13 ±3.17) in all the brains. Its average area (37.98±41.47 mm2) showed huge variation (ranges between 4.40 mm2 to 203 mm2) and was significantly higher in females (61.23±56.22 mm2) than males (36.44±43.21 mm2) (p = 0.026). No correlation was found between the surface area of the ITA and the length of the third ventricle. CONCLUSION: Absence and duplication of ITA are fairly common in Indian brains with significant male predominance. Morphometric data are robust to advocate for the presence of sex differences in the ITA size, although not associated with surrounding thalamic or third ventricle anatomy.

Analysis of the Variations in the Colic Branching Pattern of the Superior Mesenteric Artery: A Cadaveric Study With Proposal to Modify Its Current Anatomical Classification.

BACKGROUND: Vascular anatomy of the ascending colon is more complex and variable as compared to the left. Variations range from the mode of origin, branching to territorial supply. The present study was undertaken to learn the anatomical variations of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and its colic branches in detail. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 50 formalin fixed cadavers aged between 40 and 65 years. The colic branches arising from SMA were dissected to trace their mode of origin, branching pattern, and territorial supply. Based on the mode of origin of the colic branches, the SMA anatomy was classified into four patterns: I; II a, b, c; III; and IV. RESULTS: SMA itself showed variations in its origin (as celiacomesenteric and hepatomesenteric trunk), so the colic branches arising from it. In most of the cases, middle (MCA), right (RCA), and ileocolic artery (ICA) originated independently from SMA (I). A common stem (CS) was reported between MCA and RCA (IIa) in seven cases; RCA and ICA in one (IIb); MCA and LCA in one. MCA originated from the coeliac trunk (CT) in one case. In one case, each of absent RCA (III) and accessory artery arising from SMA (IV) was also noticed. In one case, the right branch of MCA gave origin to RCA. Additionally, close association was observed between pattern IIa and incomplete inter-colic anastomosis. CONCLUSION: Variations in the origin of SMA may potentially influence branching patterns of colic arteries. MCA is the most variant and ICA is the most consistent branch of SMA. Distinctive variations like MCA arising from CT or arising as CS with LCA and incomplete inter-colic anastomosis in pattern IIa are of outrageous importance for operating surgeons during surgical procedures of colon. Based on study results, we propose a modification in the classification of SMA anatomy to include the CS of MCA and LCA as type IId; however, its success relies upon universal acceptance.