Clin Anat [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Is There a Digital Gap in Anatomy Education: Promise Versus Practice.
Xiao J
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42244237 · Publisher ↗
Digital technologies are now widely embedded in anatomy education. This viewpoint discusses a potential "digital gap" in anatomy education that extends beyond the availability of technology but is shaped by disparities i...
Digital technologies are now widely embedded in anatomy education. This viewpoint discusses a potential "digital gap" in anatomy education that extends beyond the availability of technology but is shaped by disparities in perceptions, proficiency, confidence, and access among learners, educators, and institutions. We argue that addressing the digital gap is essential if digital anatomy is to move beyond symbolic innovation and realize its transformative potential in modern anatomy education.
Vascularization of the Ulnar Nerve: Anatomical Feasibility as a Vascularized Nerve Graft for Contralateral C7 Transfer.
Morro-Martí MR, Martínez-Collado P, Mustafa-Gondolbeu A … +5 more , Tarnawski-Español G, Carrera-Burgaya A, Casañas-Sintes J, Fornieles-Espinel A, Llusá-Pérez M
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42244225 · Publisher ↗
Recent advances in brachial plexus reconstruction have highlighted the potential advantages of vascularized nerve grafts for functional recovery in high-priority nerve injuries. This anatomical study evaluated the extrin...
Recent advances in brachial plexus reconstruction have highlighted the potential advantages of vascularized nerve grafts for functional recovery in high-priority nerve injuries. This anatomical study evaluated the extrinsic vascular supply of the ulnar nerve based on the superior ulnar collateral artery (SUCA) in the arm, aiming to assess its feasibility for use as a vascularized nerve graft in contralateral C7 (cC7) transfer procedures. Fifteen adult upper limbs of donated bodies were dissected to delineate the arterial supply, venous drainage of the ulnar nerve, and the anastomotic patterns of these vessels. The SUCA was consistently identified as the dominant longitudinal arterial source to the ulnar nerve in the arm, with consistent anastomoses and reliable venae comitantes in most body donors. The mean SUCA external diameter was 2.0 ± 0.01 mm and mean length to the first neural branch was 76 ± 34 mm, providing an adequate pedicle for free or pedicled transfer. These results confirm the anatomical feasibility of harvesting a vascularized ulnar nerve graft based on the SUCA for cC7 transfer, supporting its potential to enhance nerve regeneration in complex brachial plexus reconstruction.
Artificial Intelligence Policies in Human Anatomy Journals: A Comparative Analysis and Recommendations.
Luckett B, Acosta G, Bixler E … +1 more , Bobier C
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42244214 · Publisher ↗
Professional organizations in human anatomy have not yet issued guidance on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in scholarship, leaving decisions about its permissibility to individual journals and publishers. To dat...
Professional organizations in human anatomy have not yet issued guidance on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in scholarship, leaving decisions about its permissibility to individual journals and publishers. To date, however, journal and publisher AI policies in the field of human anatomy have not been systematically examined. This study compares AI policies across human anatomy journals and their publishers. Fifty-two human anatomy journals were identified using the 2024 SCImago Journal Rank. Nine journals were excluded due to non-English-only publication or classification as book series, leaving 43 journals for analysis. Journal websites were manually reviewed for statements addressing AI use. For journals without a journal-specific AI policy, affiliated publisher websites were searched for relevant policies; if none were found, the journal's editor was contacted. Fifteen journals had journal-specific AI policies, and 20 journals were affiliated with publishers that maintained publicly available AI policies. All policies permitted AI use provided authors retained full responsibility for submitted content and disclosed AI involvement. Nineteen policies exempted disclosure when AI was used solely for editorial purposes, while 16 required disclosure of every AI use. There is no uniform guidance regarding AI use in human anatomy scholarship. We therefore propose three recommendations: (1) Human anatomy professional associations should develop and disseminate guidelines collaboratively. (2) Editors of human anatomy journals should establish uniform AI policies across journals. (3) Each journal's AI policy should be embedded within its author guidelines.
Endothelial Cells as Antigen-Presenting Cells. An Historical Note.
Ribatti D
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42237735 · Publisher ↗
Vascular endothelial cells are implicated in allograft rejection, protection against pathogens, and lymphocyte recruitment from the bloodstream into sites of infection and inflammation. Endothelial cells have been termed...
Vascular endothelial cells are implicated in allograft rejection, protection against pathogens, and lymphocyte recruitment from the bloodstream into sites of infection and inflammation. Endothelial cells have been termed 'semiprofessional' antigen-presenting cells because they co-stimulate T cell responses in vitro and because they are thought to stimulate alloresponses in vivo. Endothelial cells promote T cell transendothelial migration and activation, leading to tissue damage, such as vascular permeability, edema, and inflammation.
Anatomical Architecture of the Adductor Magnus: A Cadaveric Study With Clinical Implications for Imaging-Based Diagnosis.
Maguchi K, Takafumi O, Imai M … +8 more , Kawasaki Y, Miyaki T, Tujikawa K, Satoh K, Trejo JAO, Omotehara T, Anetai H, Ichimura K
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42237686 · Publisher ↗
The adductor magnus (AM) is the largest muscle of the medial thigh compartment. Yet, detailed descriptions of its anatomical subdivisions and tendinous architecture remain incomplete, limiting accurate localization of mu...
The adductor magnus (AM) is the largest muscle of the medial thigh compartment. Yet, detailed descriptions of its anatomical subdivisions and tendinous architecture remain incomplete, limiting accurate localization of muscle injuries on clinical imaging. This study systematically characterized the anatomical structure and morphological variations of the AM by dissecting nine AMs from nine formalin-embalmed Japanese donors. The AM was consistently divided into four distinct components based on insertion sites, fascicular architecture, and innervation: adductor minimus (APm), superior part of the adductor part (APs), inferior part of the adductor part (APi), and hamstring part (HP). Contrary to conventional descriptions stating that the entire adductor part inserts onto the medial lip of the linea aspera, the present study revealed that the APm and APs inserted onto the lateral lip, whereas only the APi attached to the medial lip and the medial supracondylar line. Multiple tendinous structures were systematically identified, including superficial and deep membranous origin tendons, insertion tendons, and intramuscular tendinous arches, with considerable interindividual variation in their morphology and position. These findings provide additional anatomical detail that may improve imaging-based localization of AM injuries and potentially reduce diagnostic errors, particularly in distinguishing AM injuries from those of semimembranosus origin. Further studies correlating these anatomical findings with clinical imaging are warranted to validate their clinical applicability.
Body-Donor-Derived Data in Medical Artificial Intelligence: From Foundational Resources to Trustworthy Applications.
Sun Y, Zhang Q, Zhang W … +4 more , Liu S, Sun Z, Pan R, Qin X
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42233221 · Publisher ↗
In recent years, artificial intelligence in medicine has evolved from single recognition tasks toward structural understanding, spatial reasoning, and clinical interpretability. High-quality anatomical data have become a...
In recent years, artificial intelligence in medicine has evolved from single recognition tasks toward structural understanding, spatial reasoning, and clinical interpretability. High-quality anatomical data have become a key factor in further development. Driven by digital tomography, three-dimensional reconstruction, and multimodal technologies, body-donor-derived specimens and digital anatomical datasets, characterized by clear structural boundaries, stable spatial relationships, and fine-grained detail, are being transformed into computable, annotatable, and reusable digital anatomical resources. These resources are playing an increasingly important role in medical artificial intelligence. This narrative review summarizes the multiple roles of body-donor-derived data in medical AI. They serve as foundational resources that provide high-fidelity training data and fine-grained annotation systems. They also serve as validation references for improving algorithm credibility. In addition, they act as a substrate for AI-driven transformation in data processing, three-dimensional modeling, and intelligent applications in education, clinical practice, and forensic medicine. Their main strengths lie in anatomical authenticity, fine-grained annotatability, and structural validation utility, while their limitations include sample size, the postmortem-in vivo domain gap, annotation cost, and data governance. In the future, body-donor-derived data should become a core foundation for anatomical priors and structural gold standards, and should be deeply integrated with large-scale clinical imaging, multimodal intelligent analysis, and cross-domain learning to support the development of medical AI from high performance toward higher credibility and translational value.
Bilateral Symmetry and Variation of Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve and Inferior Thyroid Artery Patterns: An Intraoperative Study of 150 Nerves.
Yanni M, Mouratidou S, Rovira A … +1 more , Simo R
Clin Anat · 2026 Jun · PMID 42226516 · Publisher ↗
The anatomical relationship of the inferior thyroid artery (ITA) and the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is highly variable. This study aims to evaluate bilateral RLN branching patterns and their relationship to the ITA...
The anatomical relationship of the inferior thyroid artery (ITA) and the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is highly variable. This study aims to evaluate bilateral RLN branching patterns and their relationship to the ITA within the same patient, predicting contralateral anatomical variations and ultimately reducing intraoperative risk of RLN injury. A retrospective review of prospectively collected intraoperative data was performed on adults undergoing total or completion thyroidectomy at a tertiary center between February 2022 and June 2025, with standardized documentation and intermittent nerve monitoring in all cases. RLN-ITA relation was classified as posterior, anterior, or between branches, and RLN morphology as single, bifurcated, or plexiform. Bilateral agreement, conditional probabilities, and predictors were evaluated using Cohen's κ and McNemar's test. Seventy-five patients (150 RLNs) were included. Overall RLN-ITA relations were posterior 72.7%, anterior 24.7%, and between branches 2.7%. Extra-laryngeal branching was observed in 24.7% of nerves (18% bifurcated, 6.7% plexiform). High bilateral agreement was demonstrated (κ = 0.83, p < 0.001), with 93.3% concordance between sides. When variation was present on one side, the probability of contralateral variation was 94.7% (left) and 81.8% (right). Variant RLN-ITA relations were associated with larger median lobe volumes (21.7 vs. 12.3 mL), thought this trend did not reach statistical significance. Our study reveals a high degree of intra-patient symmetry in both recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) branching patterns and the RLN-ITA relationship, highlighting that anatomical variations are often mirrored contralaterally. While further larger-scale studies are necessary to confirm the reproducibility of these findings, the identification of an RLN variation on one side should prompt greater caution during contralateral dissection.
Innovation in the Face of Necessity: A Mixed-Method Study of Student's Experience From an Anatomy Education Program Focused on a Near-Peer Tutoring Module.
Creze M, Bessede T, Lemaire FP … +3 more , Avilova O, Duparc F, Ghosh SK
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42132048 · Publisher ↗
Following institutional changes that reduced access to cadaveric dissection, Paris-Saclay University developed a two-year elective anatomy pathway serving as a longitudinal progression toward near-peer tutoring (NPT). De...
Following institutional changes that reduced access to cadaveric dissection, Paris-Saclay University developed a two-year elective anatomy pathway serving as a longitudinal progression toward near-peer tutoring (NPT). Designed as a complement to the core curriculum, the program preserves engagement with human dissection while promoting professional development under resource constraints. The fourth-year tutoring phase represents the final stage of this pathway, with guided autonomy under structured faculty supervision. The objective of the study was to evaluate tutors' motivations, perceived gains in anatomical knowledge and teaching skills, and professional development during the NPT module. A cross-sectional, mixed-methods survey was administered to three consecutive cohorts (2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023). The questionnaire included multiple-choice items, five-point Likert scales, and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, χ tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Spearman correlations. Qualitative data underwent post hoc semantic grouping and reflexive thematic analysis. Among 40 eligible tutors, 34 completed the survey (85% response rate). Motivations included deepening anatomical knowledge (38%) and teaching others (35%). Perceived gains were high across all cohorts: increased anatomical proficiency (mean 4.6-4.7), motivation to teach (3.2-4.4), and reduced fear of surgical tools (3.7-4.4), with no significant intercohort differences. Strong correlations linked improved anatomy knowledge with motivation for anatomy (ρ = 0.65) and teaching (ρ = 0.52-0.64). Thematic analysis identified four benefit domains: anatomy proficiency, surgical/technical confidence, pedagogical skills, and ethical awareness. Negative feedback highlighted needs for better supervision and organization. The NPT module consolidates learning through teaching responsibility, and ethical engagement. Embedding NPT longitudinally offers a scalable strategy to sustain dissection-based anatomy education under faculty constraints while fostering teaching confidence and professional identity.
Exploring AACA Members' Perceptions of Integrating Technologies in Anatomy Education.
Raoof A, Khalil M, Abdel Meguid E … +2 more , Brzezinski D, Dave M
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42104734 · Publisher ↗
Advances in educational technologies have transformed the landscape of anatomy instruction, prompting a need to understand faculty perceptions regarding their integration. This study explored the perceptions of members o...
Advances in educational technologies have transformed the landscape of anatomy instruction, prompting a need to understand faculty perceptions regarding their integration. This study explored the perceptions of members of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists (AACA) views on the use, benefits, and challenges of educational technologies in anatomy education. An online cross-sectional survey was distributed to AACA members using Qualtrics and assessed four domains: current use of educational technologies, perceived impact on anatomy education, challenges to technology integration, and comparisons between technology-based and cadaver-based instruction. Likert-scale responses were analyzed descriptively, and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha. Sixty-three faculty members completed the survey, representing approximately 20% of AACA membership. Digital textbooks and e-resources were the most frequently used tools. Most respondents agreed that technology improved student engagement (74%), supported diverse learning styles (72%), and enhanced the explanation of complex concepts (70%). The most frequently reported barriers were cost (66%) and limited technical support (45%). Despite acknowledging the benefits of technology, 81% of participants preferred cadaver dissection, citing its superior value for understanding anatomical variability. All domains demonstrated excellent reliability (α = 0.95-0.99). These findings indicate strong support among anatomy educators for integrating educational technologies as complementary tools while reaffirming the irreplaceable pedagogical value of cadaveric dissection. A balanced approach combining digital and traditional methods, supported by institutional investment and faculty development, is essential for optimizing technology-enhanced anatomy education.
New Insights Into the Anconeus Epitrochlearis Muscle and Its Relationship to the Ulnar Nerve: Anatomical Study.
Banerjee S, Nguyen K, Bishop JL … +9 more , Pujol JE, Rosbrugh JE, Yurasakpong L, Chaiyamoon A, Suwannakhan A, Dumont AS, Georgiev GP, Iwanaga J, Tubbs RS
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42104725 · Publisher ↗
Ulnar neuropathy due to compression at the cubital tunnel is common. However, our understanding of the relationships between this type of nerve compression and the variant anconeus epitrochlearis muscle (AEM) is poorly u...
Ulnar neuropathy due to compression at the cubital tunnel is common. However, our understanding of the relationships between this type of nerve compression and the variant anconeus epitrochlearis muscle (AEM) is poorly understood. Therefore, the present anatomical study was performed to better elucidate these relationships. In 162 adult cadavers (324 sides), the roof of the cubital tunnel was dissected. The prevalence and gross anatomy of the AEM were documented. Histological and microCT analyses were performed on selected specimens to evaluate the microanatomy and radiological findings in relation to the underlying nerve, soft tissues, and bone. Additionally, with the range of motion of the elbow and artificial contraction of the AEM, the effects of the AEM on the ulnar nerve were observed. AEMs were identified on 32 (10%) of the sides. Histologically, a connective tissue connection between the AEM and ulnar nerve was found in all specimens, and a direct connection between the AEM and the underlying joint capsule was found in most specimens. No grossly visible compression of the ulnar nerve by the overlying AEM was observed with flexion or extension of the elbow. With artificial contraction of the AEM, the ulnar nerve was found to move out of the depths of the ulnar groove in roughly half of the sides. Previously unreported relationships between Osborne's ligament, the AEM, and the underlying ulnar nerve were found. These findings will improve our understanding of the relationship between these structures and the ulnar nerve at the elbow. During surgery in this area, care should be taken to avoid injuring the ulnar nerve when applying traction to the AEM.
The Pudendum in Anatomical Terminology: Repudiating Perennial Perineal Problems.
Zdilla MJ
Clin Anat · 2026 Jul · PMID 42098983 · Publisher ↗
Controversial efforts to censor the term pudendum and related pudendal anatomical terminology from Terminologia Anatomica (TA) have been met with mounting criticisms. The proponents of censorship have deemed pudere-relat...
Controversial efforts to censor the term pudendum and related pudendal anatomical terminology from Terminologia Anatomica (TA) have been met with mounting criticisms. The proponents of censorship have deemed pudere-related terminology nondescriptive and "unscientific." However, its etymology refers to the hair which covers the underlying genitalia and renders the underlying anatomy less conspicuous. Accordingly, the terminology speaks to location (the region covered by the hair), structure/function (the hair covering which obscures the view of underlying structures), and human development (pubarche). Moreover, pudere-related terminology is increasingly used in modern-day science and, therefore, "scientific" by virtue of its utility. Aside from human anatomy, pudere-related scientific terminology is used to describe nearly 1000 species from varied kingdoms, genera, and so on, and the nature of being or becoming inconspicuous. Proponents of censorship have argued the false pretense that biologists would regard as 'shameful' the essential functions undertaken by structures in the perineum based upon ancient etymology. They have also argued that pudere-related terms, including pudendal nerve, are somehow sexist, despite being used indiscriminately of sex for millennia. As a result of misleading information, the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists and its Federative International Committee for Equality and Diversity in Anatomy have recommended replacing pudendal terminology with perineal terminology, which would confound longstanding anatomical language. Because censorship of well-established anatomical terminology may impair communication, it is important to highlight erroneous reasons for censorship when they occur. Therefore, this report highlights several flaws in the logic regarding the censorship of pudere-related terms.
Can Cadaviz Effectively Enhance My Learning of Human Anatomy? Perspectives From First-Year MBBS Students.
Devi GD, Devaki PR, Koshy JM … +2 more , Rahe R, Archana R
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42076880 · Publisher ↗
Virtual dissection tables such as Cadaviz offer interactive, 3D visualization of anatomical structures, potentially enhancing comprehension and engagement in medical education. This study examines how first-year MBBS stu...
Virtual dissection tables such as Cadaviz offer interactive, 3D visualization of anatomical structures, potentially enhancing comprehension and engagement in medical education. This study examines how first-year MBBS students with diverse academic standings perceive the effectiveness of Cadaviz in supporting their anatomy learning. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 220 first-year MBBS students at Sree Balaji Medical College, Chennai. Participants were stratified into Below-Average, Average, and Above-Average groups based on internal assessment scores. Perceptions of Cadaviz were assessed using a 20-question Likert-scale questionnaire covering effectiveness, engagement, interactivity, accessibility, usability, and perceived role of Cadaviz alongside traditional dissection. Data were analyzed descriptively and via one-way ANOVA to compare mean Likert Scale Scores across performance strata. Cadaviz was perceived as an effective anatomy learning tool, with below-average students reporting the greatest benefits in understanding structures, comprehension, and learning efficiency (p = 0.043-0.005). While traditional cadaveric dissection remained preferred, Cadaviz was valued as a supplement, enhancing engagement, interactivity, and self-paced learning. Students highlighted its accessibility, flexibility, and user-friendly interface, with fewer technical difficulties. Cadaviz fostered inclusive, learner-centered education, promoting active participation, conceptual understanding, and confidence across all academic strata, particularly supporting students needing additional reinforcement.
MOOC-Empowered Blended Teaching Mode in Human Anatomy: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis.
Wen M, Wu M, Meng H … +2 more , Song R, Hu Y
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42076839 · Publisher ↗
Human anatomy, a cornerstone course in medical education, faces several challenges, such as teaching resource shortages, compressed class hours, and heavy student workloads. Traditional teaching models of anatomy often f...
Human anatomy, a cornerstone course in medical education, faces several challenges, such as teaching resource shortages, compressed class hours, and heavy student workloads. Traditional teaching models of anatomy often fall short in stimulating interest, promoting deep understanding, and enhancing learning engagement. Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)-empowered blended teaching mode offers a potential solution. This study aims to evaluate this blended teaching mode by investigating the psychological-behavioral pathways among students' perceived course value (PCV), knowledge integration and deep processing (KIDP), and learning engagement and behavioral shifts (LEBS). Additionally, we explore the predictive value of MOOC performance for final examination outcomes. An anonymous survey was conducted among medical undergraduates of our university. The questionnaire measured three core dimensions: PCV, KIDP, and LEBS, with items scored on a five-point Likert scale. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationships between specific MOOC teaching elements and these latent variables. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to examine the mediating role of KIDP. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the correlation between MOOC scores and final examination results. Spearman Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation among PCV, KIDP, and LEBS (r = 0.73-0.86, p < 0.001). The perceived value of instructional videos was significantly and positively correlated with all core dimensions (p < 0.001), whereas the demand for clinical content showed a significant negative correlation (p < 0.001). The measurement model demonstrated high reliability and validity, with all standardized factor loadings exceeding 0.6 and model fit indices meeting recommended thresholds. SEM indicated that the direct path from PCV to LEBS was not significant, while the indirect effect through KIDP was substantial (indirect effect = 0.774), identifying KIDP as a full mediator. MOOC scores showed a positive linear correlation with final examination scores (r = 0.443, p < 0.001). The regression equation was y = 0.5225x + 24.842, indicating that a 1-point increase in the MOOC score predicted a 0.52-point increase in the final examination score. This study empirically reveals that MOOC-empowered blended teaching mode substantially improves the effectiveness of anatomy learning and serves as a valid predictor of final academic performance. KIDP is the key bridge between students' perceptions and their actual learning actions. These findings provide strong support for teaching reforms and the digital transformation of foundational medical courses.
Evaluating the Impact of a Dedicated Dissection Course on 3-D Anatomical Understanding in Senior Medical Students.
Stubley T, Wooding J, Marshall J … +2 more , Stephenson RS, Katti K
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42066208 · Publisher ↗
International changes in the focus of medical school education have led to a decrease in the time allocated to anatomy education, with human specimen dissection particularly affected. This study evaluates whether a disse...
International changes in the focus of medical school education have led to a decrease in the time allocated to anatomy education, with human specimen dissection particularly affected. This study evaluates whether a dissection-based course facilitates the retention of three-dimensional (3-D) anatomical relationships in senior medical students who previously completed anatomy training without dissection. Fifteen year 4 or 5 medical students, who had completed preclinical anatomy instruction and 1 or 2 years of clinical training, were competitively selected to undertake a Clinical Anatomy Intercalation programme that included a 16-week full body human specimen dissection course. Participants completed four assessments administered before, midway through, at the end, and 1 month after the dissection course. Each assessment had 24 questions based on six prosection images representing major body regions. Half of the questions assessed anatomical identification, while the reminder evaluated 3-D understanding of anatomy. A post-course Likert scale questionnaire captured participants' perceptions of dissection as a learning tool. Overall test scores improved across the first three assessments, with questions relating to 3-D anatomical understanding showing a statistical improvement with each sequential in-course test. No statistically significant difference was observed between end of course and one-month post-course tests, indicating knowledge retention. Performance was significantly lower in head and neck anatomy compared to thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic regions (p < 0.001). Likert scale questionnaire responses indicated strong participant support for dissection as an education tool. This study demonstrates that a dissection-based anatomy course significantly enhances 3D anatomical knowledge gain and supports retention, which senior medical students can apply in clinical practice. Participants highly valued the experience, suggesting that dissection is still a vital component of medical education.
Anatomical Variation Quality Assessment Tool (AVQAT): Structured Guide for Reporting and Assessing the Quality of Anatomical Case Reports.
Kunc V, Kachlík D, Beneš M
Clin Anat · 2026 Jul · PMID 42066112 · Full text
Anatomical variations are common and often clinically important, yet their description frequently relies on isolated case reports or small series with heterogeneous reporting quality. Incomplete documentation of specimen...
Anatomical variations are common and often clinically important, yet their description frequently relies on isolated case reports or small series with heterogeneous reporting quality. Incomplete documentation of specimen characteristics, inconsistent anatomical definitions and terminology, insufficient description of visualization methods, limited quantitative measurements, and suboptimal figures all reduce reproducibility and limit comparison and data synthesis. To address the lack of an anatomy-specific quality assessment, the Anatomical Variation Quality Assessment Tool (AVQAT) is introduced as a structured instrument intended for authors, reviewers, and editors. AVQAT comprises two sections organized into nine domains. Section A evaluates technical and descriptive quality across six domains: general aspects, specimen characteristics, anatomical definition, methods of visualization, quantitative description and measurements, and quality and use of figures. Section B evaluates interpretative and contextual quality in three domains: differential diagnostic considerations, identification and integration of previous studies, and ethical and regulatory considerations. Each domain contains targeted items that can be assessed systematically using "Yes," "No," or "Not applicable" responses. The tool is designed to complement, not replace, generic case-report guidance by focusing on the specific demands of anatomical documentation and thereby facilitating higher-quality reporting and more reliable evidence synthesis in scoping and systematic reviews.
Sex Prediction From the Clavicle Using Computerized Tomography Images via Traditional and Hybrid Deep Learning Models.
Secgin Y, Cakmak M, Senol D … +6 more , Kaya S, Oztürk O, Harmandaoğlu O, Yenigül H, Bıyık EY, Onbaş O
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42066111 · Publisher ↗
The aim of this study is to perform high accuracy sex prediction from clavicle images using proposed hybrid deep learning models and traditional deep learning models. The clavicle of 807 female and 805 male individuals o...
The aim of this study is to perform high accuracy sex prediction from clavicle images using proposed hybrid deep learning models and traditional deep learning models. The clavicle of 807 female and 805 male individuals obtained from Computed Tomography were segmented in 3D format and saved in jpeg format as superior-inferior and right-left. MobileNetV2, DenseNet201, and ResNet101 traditional deep learning models and the proposed MobileNetV2+Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) and MobileNetV2+MLP+t-distributed Stochastic Neighborhood Embedding (t-SNE) based hybrid deep learning models were trained with the training set. The training was performed both with and without right-left side discrimination. The performance of each model was evaluated and compared. The highest accuracy rate of 91% was obtained in the training with both proposed hybrid models without side discrimination. The highest success rate obtained with the proposed models was 88%. The lowest accuracy rates were achieved with ResNet101. The accuracy rate was 81% in the analysis with side discrimination and 83% in the analysis without discrimination. According to Grad-Cam, the extremitas sternalis tip contributed the most to accuracy. In this study, MobileNetV2+MLP and MobileNetV2+MLP+t-SNE provided highly accurate results in sex prediction. This approach is a potential new method that can be used in sex estimation, especially in forensic medicine, as it allows the collection of features with MobileNetV2, classification with MLP, visualization with t-SNE, and observation of errors without metric measurement, directly from the superior and inferior available images of the clavicle.
Sources of Measurement Error in the Critical Appraisal Tool for Anatomical Meta-Analysis: An Item-Level and Generalizability-Theory Evaluation.
Papadopoulos V, Malkidou N, Kogias D … +2 more , Kogias C, Fiska A
Clin Anat · 2026 May · PMID 42063313 · Publisher ↗
The Critical Appraisal Tool for Anatomical Meta-analysis (CATAM) was introduced to support anatomy-specific appraisal of the methodological quality and reporting of anatomical meta-analyses (AMAs). While prior work has s...
The Critical Appraisal Tool for Anatomical Meta-analysis (CATAM) was introduced to support anatomy-specific appraisal of the methodological quality and reporting of anatomical meta-analyses (AMAs). While prior work has supported its face and content validity and suggested high overall reliability under selected conditions, comprehensive evidence regarding its inter-rater reliability, item-level agreement, and sources of measurement error remains limited. This study aimed to provide an in-depth psychometric evaluation of CATAM by assessing (i) inter-rater reliability of the total score, (ii) item-level inter-rater agreement using robust ordinal multi-rater statistics, and (iii) sources of variance using Generalizability Theory, with the additional objective of identifying domains in which disagreement concentrated under independent, uncalibrated application. Fifty AMAs published in 2024 were identified through structured searches of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar and independently evaluated by four blinded raters using the 14-item CATAM instrument. Inter-rater reliability of total scores was assessed using two-way random-effects intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Item-level agreement was evaluated using Gwet's AC2 with ordinal weights (primary) and Krippendorff's α (secondary). Generalizability Theory was applied under a fully crossed p × r × i design to partition variance attributable to meta-analyses, raters, items, and their interactions. Decision studies examined how reliability varies as a function of the number of raters and items. Single-rater reliability of the total CATAM score was low, whereas averaging scores across four raters yielded acceptable reliability under the present protocol (ICC(2,4)≈0.69). Item-level agreement varied substantially, ranging from perfect agreement to poor agreement across items. Five items (Abstract, Introduction, Methods/Searching Strategy, Results/Outcomes, and Discussion) fell below the pragmatic Gwet's AC2 screening threshold of 0.60, although two of these (Methods/Searching Strategy and Discussion) were near-threshold findings that should be interpreted cautiously. Generalizability analysis revealed that item-related variance dominated total score variability, while rater main effects and meta-analysis × rater interactions were negligible. The generalizability coefficient for relative decisions was moderate (G≈0.66), and the dependability coefficient for absolute decisions treating items as fixed was Φ≈0.59. Decision studies indicated that four raters provide an efficient balance between feasibility and reliability. Overall, CATAM demonstrated acceptable reliability when ratings were aggregated across multiple independent raters under the present protocol, although item-linked variance exceeded rater main-effect variance and these analyses cannot fully separate item characteristics from differences in how raters operationalized the published guidance. These findings support calibration with explicit decision rules and rescoring as the next methodological step; only if disagreement persists after that process should any future Delphi-based refinement be considered.
Temporal Filling and Facial Lifting: Rethinking Expectations.
Germani M
Clin Anat · 2026 Apr · PMID 42057570 · Publisher ↗
Temporal lifting using injectable fillers has gained considerable attention in facial esthetics, based on the anatomical principle that strategic volumization can produce lifting effects through mechanical transmission o...
Temporal lifting using injectable fillers has gained considerable attention in facial esthetics, based on the anatomical principle that strategic volumization can produce lifting effects through mechanical transmission of forces. However, there is a significant gap between anatomical plausibility and clinical evidence. To conduct a scoping review of the literature examining the evidence supporting temporal lifting and to explore the discrepancy between anatomical theory and measurable clinical results. A search of the PubMed and MEDLINE databases was conducted using terms such as "temporal lifting," "temporal filler," and "fascial lifting." Clinical studies and case series that evaluated the mechanical or clinical effects of injections in the temporal region were included. Although cadaveric studies provide robust theoretical support for force transmission through fascial continuity, clinical validation reveals substantial limitations. Prospective studies demonstrated minimal tissue displacement (0.13 mm) despite high patient satisfaction, suggesting expectation bias. A recent randomized clinical trial employing automated stereophotogrammetry found insignificant displacement (< 0.7 mm) and null GAIS scores. In contrast, another RCT reported more pronounced lifting effects using extended techniques and combined injections, although methodological and volume differences may justify the divergent results. The primary outcome of temporal injections is local volumetric restoration rather than true lifting. Clinicians should emphasize the predictable benefits of volumization, presenting any lifting effect as a possible secondary benefit of variable magnitude. Although temporal lifting possesses anatomical plausibility, clinical evidence does not always support lifting effects when standard volumes are used. The persistent gap between subjective clinical impressions and objective measurements underscores the importance of methodological rigor in validating anatomical concepts.
Meta-Gamofy: Automated Metaverse Gaming for Healthcare Conditions.
Khan AA, Yang J, Alroobaea R … +5 more , Alsafyani M, Alhazmi A, Mohamed MA, Ullah S, Por LY
Clin Anat · 2026 Apr · PMID 42053257 · Publisher ↗
In the current era of advanced digital technology, real-time digital communication is deeply ingrained in everyday life due to enhanced media connectivity, which leverages advanced technology for wellness, especially hea...
In the current era of advanced digital technology, real-time digital communication is deeply ingrained in everyday life due to enhanced media connectivity, which leverages advanced technology for wellness, especially healthcare. Disease diagnosis and treatment depend on performance indices that use cognitive, visual, and psychometric data to evaluate functions. This includes analyzing multi-tracking, detection, field of view, endurance, and accuracy, which help evaluate game-driven holistic cognitive effects via the virtual path identifier function. Metaverse brings the existing game-based treatment to unprecedented connivance by removing the geographical barrier, which enhances patient education, especially psychological therapies, just like training to handle phobias. This technology provides a virtual environment personalized by AI-enabled predictive analytics for explaining complex procedures in patient treatment plans. Such virtual consulting integrates with the real-time data of healthcare for virtual assessment and scheduled clinical trials. However, the emergence of such developments impacts the lifecycle of data protection, privacy preservation, and security. Hence, to enhance the security features, this paper discusses the use of blockchain technology coupled with the metaverse to tackle security challenges. In addition, this paper articulates the taxonomy of assessing health conditions using metaverse gaming techniques with security, laying the structure and organization for this survey. Moreover, this paper addresses potential issues related to current evaluation processes, focusing on data privacy, security aspects, and outlining possible solutions. The paper substantially explores the open research problems that could guide future research directions and developments in meta-gamify, referring to gamification within the metaverse in healthcare.
Enhancing Histological Learning Through Augmented Reality: A Comparative Study of Traditional Microscopy and AR-Based Instruction.
Xiao R, Chen X, Yang X … +2 more , Wu D, Ma Y
Clin Anat · 2026 Apr · PMID 42053239 · Publisher ↗
Learning histology requires transforming two-dimensional microscopic images into three-dimensional mental representations, a cognitive process often challenging for students. This comparative educational study investigat...
Learning histology requires transforming two-dimensional microscopic images into three-dimensional mental representations, a cognitive process often challenging for students. This comparative educational study investigated whether augmented reality (AR)-assisted instruction could enhance cognitive, motivational, and practical learning outcomes in histological education compared to traditional microscopy. Second-year medical students (N = 152) were allocated to either a traditional microscopy group or an AR-based instruction group. Outcomes assessed at baseline, postintervention, and at 10-week follow-up included knowledge retention, spatial understanding, practical tissue identification (OSPE), cognitive load, and learning motivation. While both groups showed immediate knowledge gains, the AR group demonstrated significantly higher delayed knowledge retention and spatial understanding (p < 0.001). In practical assessments, AR-trained students achieved higher identification accuracy and faster completion times. Furthermore, AR-based instruction was associated with lower extraneous cognitive load, higher germane load, and increased intrinsic motivation. These findings suggest that integrating AR as a complementary instructional strategy promotes more effective, learner-centered histology education by reducing cognitive load and enhancing spatial visualization skills.
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