Madani S, Defaweux V, Lagier A
… +2 more, Tchana-Sato V, Radermecker M
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42349349
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PURPOSE: To describe the morphological variability of the pectinate muscles (PM) and crista terminalis (CT) in the right atrium, to evaluate the presence of a taenia sagittalis (TS), and to propose a simplified anatomica...PURPOSE: To describe the morphological variability of the pectinate muscles (PM) and crista terminalis (CT) in the right atrium, to evaluate the presence of a taenia sagittalis (TS), and to propose a simplified anatomical classification. METHODS: Forty-five adult human hearts without major macroscopic abnormalities were dissected following a standardized protocol exposing the CT and PM. Each specimen was documented with high-resolution photographs and independently analyzed by two cardiac surgeons. The orientation of muscular fibers, the presence and number of TS, and the degree of cross-over between bundles were recorded. RESULTS: The CT was identified in all specimens. Three morphological patterns of PM organization were distinguished: type I (parallel fibers without TS), type II (parallel fibers with one or more TS), and type III (disorganized fibers with multiple cross-overs). Their respective frequencies were 33.3%, 46.7%, and 20.0%. A single TS was the most frequent configuration. CONCLUSIONS: The PM of the right atrium show marked anatomical variability. The proposed three-type classification provides a simplified and reproducible framework for describing their organization. Beyond anatomical description, it may offer practical relevance for imaging interpretation, electrophysiological procedures, and open cardiac surgery, while providing a basis for future studies exploring the relationship between right atrial architecture and atrial arrhythmogenesis.
Kapetanakis S, Charatsi D, Katzi F
… +1 more, Chatzivasiliadis M
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42235183
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Thoracolumbar spinal cord perfusion depends on a discontinuous and highly variable pattern of segmental arterial reinforcement, particularly through anterior radiculomedullary arteries such as the artery of Adamkiewicz....Thoracolumbar spinal cord perfusion depends on a discontinuous and highly variable pattern of segmental arterial reinforcement, particularly through anterior radiculomedullary arteries such as the artery of Adamkiewicz. Although the artery of Adamkiewicz is classically regarded as the principal anterior radiculomedullary contributor to the lower thoracic cord and lumbosacral enlargement, ischemic risk during thoracolumbar surgery cannot be explained by single-vessel anatomy alone. Rather, spinal cord perfusion is maintained through an integrated collateral network in which vulnerability is shaped by the number, distribution, laterality, and timing of segmental arterial interruption. This narrative review synthesizes the clinical anatomy of thoracolumbar radiculomedullary and radiculopial arteries and their relevance to surgical risk. We also examine the collateral network concept, the limitations of the single-artery paradigm, and the role of preoperative vascular localization using computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, and digital subtraction angiography. Particular attention is given to high-risk surgical scenarios, including anterior or lateral thoracolumbar approaches, multilevel segmental artery ligation, corpectomy, deformity correction, and oncologic resection. By translating anatomical variability into practical surgical risk zones, this review provides a clinically oriented framework for preoperative planning, approach selection, and intraoperative vascular management in thoracolumbar spine surgery.
Mutombo Mwembo D, Fries A, Bonnet P
… +7 more, Sul Ilunga Sul A, Prygiel O, Lagier A, Kalau WA, Sobczak S, Schyns M, Defaweux V
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42224888
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The effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) in anatomy and histology education remains variable across literature, suggesting strong dependence on pedagogical context, learner characteristics, and conditions of use. ARan...The effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) in anatomy and histology education remains variable across literature, suggesting strong dependence on pedagogical context, learner characteristics, and conditions of use. ARanatomy was developed as a mobile AR-learning environment to support spatial understanding of anatomical structures across multiple levels of organization, from macroscopic to histological, and required contextualized evaluation under authentic curricular conditions. This multicentric study involved 2,031 students across five cohorts from three institutions across Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. Three successive versions of the application were deployed, differing in ergonomic maturity and level of usage instrumentation. Collected data included student perceptions (WBLT framework), motivation (Self-Determination Theory), objective usage traces, and performance outcomes when available. Descriptive, comparative, and correlational analyses were conducted, and usage profiles were identified using K-means clustering (k=3). Perceptions of learning and design varied markedly across cohorts. Engagement differences between users and non-users were limited. Instrumented analyses showed that intensive and diversified use was associated with higher visuospatial performance, whereas no effect was observed on immediate disciplinary performance. Usage intensity correlated positively with intrinsic motivation and positive emotions and negatively with amotivation. These findings indicate that the educational value of ARanatomy depends primarily on its pedagogical integration, ergonomic maturity, and depth of use. AR was associated with higher visuospatial performance than with short-term academic performance, although no causal relationship could be established. Taking together, these results highlight the importance of analytics-informed and pedagogically aligned implementation in anatomy education.
Ferreira BGRS, Dias de Oliveira G, Esteves ACF
… +2 more, Júnior LARM, Campina RCF
Morphologie
· 2026 May · PMID 42139827
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Certain bone lesions originate from metastases caused by specific types of cancer. Prostate cancer is a malignant neoplasm whose metastases are typically osteoblastic lesions, often resembling a "sunburst" pattern. The s...Certain bone lesions originate from metastases caused by specific types of cancer. Prostate cancer is a malignant neoplasm whose metastases are typically osteoblastic lesions, often resembling a "sunburst" pattern. The study of human skeletal remains, particularly in forensic contexts, can reveal fundamental aspects, such as the probable cause of death. The objective of this study was to analyze and identify individualizing characteristics, specifically osteoblastic lesions, in skeletons from the osteological collection of the Forensic Anthropology and Osteology Laboratory (LAOF) at the Federal University of Pernambuco. The study was conducted at the LAOF, where two skeletons, whose cause of death was prostate cancer, were selected. The lesions present in the skeletons were meticulously analyzed, mapping the main focus points of these lesions. In the first skeleton, aged 55 at death, macroporosities predominated in the femur, fibulae, tibiae, and some ribs. Although a transfixing foramen was observed in the frontal bone and coronal suture, few cranial lesions were found compared to the rest of the skeleton, suggesting a delayed metastasis to this area. The sternum was one of the most affected bones, with lesions clearly evident across its surface. Macro-osteoblastic lesions were prominent in the vertebrae, especially in the thoracic region. The ribs were completely affected by both macro and microlesions, with some showing increased shaft diameter. In the second skeleton, aged 76 at death, lesions were observed in the skull, facial bones, and mandible. Microlesions were present in long bones, vertebrae, and ribs. The left femur showed a microlesion on the articular surface of the distal epiphysis, indicating atypical lesion behavior. Both skeletons presented osteoblastic lesions with a sunburst appearance, mainly in the axial skeleton bones. The axial skeleton was clearly the most affected region in both skeletons, with macroporosities being more frequent and the most prominent osteoblastic lesions occurring in the pelvis, ribs, and vertebrae. These findings are important for forensic professionals, providing greater understanding of the differentiation of bone lesion types and their associations with preexisting diseases.
Prabhath S, D Souza A, Andrade L
… +2 more, Pandey AK, Prasanna LC
Morphologie
· 2026 May · PMID 42139826
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INTRODUCTION: In practical anatomical examinations, Spotters are used for real-time assessment. This method involves predissected specimens with structures pinned or tied. While it is suitable for small groups, it is cha...INTRODUCTION: In practical anatomical examinations, Spotters are used for real-time assessment. This method involves predissected specimens with structures pinned or tied. While it is suitable for small groups, it is challenging for large groups. To address this, we propose using "Technology-Enhanced Anatomy Spotters", i.e., "Image-Based Spotters", for formative assessments. OBJECTIVES: To explore students' and faculty' perceptions of the "Technology-Enhanced Anatomy Spotters" approach and identify challenges in its conduct. METHODS: An image-based spotter session was organized for 250 first-year medical undergraduate students. The session involved the use of images of dissected specimens, histology slides, embryological models, and radiographic films. The PowerPoint presentation was prepared with one question per slide, with timed slide transitions. The response sheets were provided online via Microsoft Forms. The students' and faculty members' feedback was collected through a semistructured questionnaire and analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Qualitative data were analysed across three domains: session usefulness, difficulties/challenges encountered, and potential for further improvement. RESULTS: A high level of satisfaction was observed, with 79% of the students and 77% of the faculty reporting that the 'Image-based Spotters' were conducted smoothly. However, only 16% of the students perceived it as a viable alternative to traditional real-time spotters. All faculty members (100%) reported evaluating online response sheets easier than hard copy submissions. CONCLUSION: The use of "image-based spotters" for assessing practical anatomy was well received by students and could prove to be a potentially useful method for formative assessments in practical anatomy for large groups. Furthermore, it can be of great use in instances of distant education and pandemic situations. However, careful consideration of technical issues such as virtual hindrances and logistics is necessary.
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42054769
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BACKGROUND: Age estimation is vital in forensic odontology, with exfoliative cytology and cytomorphometry emerging as promising non-invasive techniques. This study evaluates the accuracy of cytomorphometric parameters li...BACKGROUND: Age estimation is vital in forensic odontology, with exfoliative cytology and cytomorphometry emerging as promising non-invasive techniques. This study evaluates the accuracy of cytomorphometric parameters like nuclear perimeter (NP), cell perimeter (CP), and NP:CP ratio, in estimating age and gender across various age groups. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 120 participants (60 males and 60 females) divided into six age groups (10-20, 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60, ≥61 years). Exfoliative cytology was performed to collect buccal mucosal cells, stained with Papanicolaou stain and analyzed for NP, CP, and NP:CP ratio in 50 cells per smear at 400×magnification. Statistical analysis was conducted. RESULTS: A significant decline in mean NP and CP values was observed with increasing age, while NP:CP ratio showed a slight increase in those aged ≥61 years. On intergroup comparisons, notable differences were seen between juvenile/early adulthood and middle/older adulthood groups. Regression analysis showed CP had the highest age prediction accuracy (31.7%), with a combined model improving accuracy to only 35.8%. Logistic regression using NP and CP achieved 90% predictive accuracy in distinguishing juvenile from older adulthood, with CP as the primary predictor. No significant gender differences were found, except for NCR, which was higher in females. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that the cytomorphometric evaluation (NP, CP, NP:CP ratio) of exfoliated buccal mucosal cells is not a potent tool for age estimation due to its moderate predictive accuracy. While it excels in distinguishing between distinctly separated age groups, its precision falters in closely adjacent groups, rendering it of limited forensic relevance.
Dental hard tissues have a unique property to retain traces in susceptible conditions, making them valuable for forensic investigation due to their resistance to physical, chemical, and biological degradation. This three...Dental hard tissues have a unique property to retain traces in susceptible conditions, making them valuable for forensic investigation due to their resistance to physical, chemical, and biological degradation. This three-fold study explored the potential of analysing dental tissues for the detection of substances and trace elements, including a scoping review on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science; a global JISC e-survey sent to relevant professionals; and the development of 3D digital models. Three-quarters of the scientific publications that met the criteria were experimental and used molars and premolars. Studies focused mainly on drug detection using gas or liquid chromatography, combined with mass spectrometry. Experiments using acids were more popularly studied, followed by morphine, codeine, and cocaine, but only half included visual representation. A total of 160 respondents from 37 countries shared information on substance-related dental alterations; only 35.6% had formal education on substance-related dental changes, 14.4% felt confident handling such cases, and 8.1% correctly identified all five conditions in image-based survey questions. Images of generalised fluorosis and tobacco stains were more correctly identified than methamphetamine. Three 3D models (licit drugs, illicit drugs, chemicals/elements) were developed using Blender 3D, ZBrush, and Adobe Substance Painter and are accessible via the Sketchfab 3D viewer and a dedicated website for education and consultancy. These findings highlight limited familiarity and training among professionals in recognising substance-induced dental changes, alongside poor access to visual and educational resources, particularly on illicit drugs. The 3D digital models have been created to address this gap, enhance awareness and support forensic practitioners in interpreting substance-related dental evidence in casework.
Mânica S, Qaq R, Erolin C
… +2 more, Napolitano T, Pandey H
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41966534
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The Romero Dental Modification System offers a standardised framework for classifying intentional dental modifications, with its theoretical and classificatory structure derived largely from Mesoamerican archaeological c...The Romero Dental Modification System offers a standardised framework for classifying intentional dental modifications, with its theoretical and classificatory structure derived largely from Mesoamerican archaeological contexts. This study evaluated visual representations of the Romero dental modification system (1970) and proposed an updated contemporary illustration approach in the form of 3D digital models. Twenty-three studies applying the Romero classification system were reviewed. Modification types, frequency distributions, affected teeth, and visual documentation practices were extracted and synthesised. A total of 80 modification occurrences representing 35 distinct types (59.3% of the 59-type system) were identified. The class I contour modifications were most frequent (67.5%), followed by class II inlays (20.0%) and class III combined modifications (12.5%). Anatomically, modifications were strongly concentrated in anterior teeth, particularly upper incisors, with no molar modifications documented. Visual documentation practices were inconsistent: 26.1% of studies provided no imagery, and many relied on low-resolution or schematic representations, although recent studies increasingly used colour photography and combined imaging methods. This study provides the first comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) digital documentation of the Romero system (1970), with 67.8% coverage across all types and a complete representation of types A and E.
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41895228
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Intentional dental modifications are valuable tools in human identification and profiling, helping to determine the cultural, ethnic, or regional origins of human remains. In the Hindu-Balinese tradition, a tooth-filing...Intentional dental modifications are valuable tools in human identification and profiling, helping to determine the cultural, ethnic, or regional origins of human remains. In the Hindu-Balinese tradition, a tooth-filing ceremony called Metatah, involving the six maxillary anterior teeth, is known. This study aimed to explore its prevalence and discuss the potential use in the analysis of dentition for human identification and profiling. An anonymous eleven-question e-survey (Google Forms, 2025) was conducted among Balinese individuals, and responses were quantitatively analysed using Microsoft Excel (2025, version 16.97.2, USA). Of the 55 participants, 49 (89.1%) reported having undergone the ritual. Among them, 28 (50.9%) stated that filing was performed until the incisal edges were smooth and the canines were reshaped to reduce sharpness. The reported reasons for the ritual included the elimination of Sad Ripu, the six enemies of the mind (60%), and as a rite of passage marking the transition from childhood to adulthood (25%). In 30 cases (54.5%), the ritual was performed by a sangging, a traditional Balinese ritual specialist. Most participants described the experience as not painful, while 26.5% reported moderate pain. This study confirms that Metatah in Bali yields characteristic dental modifications relevant to human identification and profiling. Incorporating knowledge of such practices alongside physiological and pathological tooth wear of anterior teeth enhances the accuracy of dental and anthropological assessments.
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41895227
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PURPOSE: Gemini has been extensively investigated regarding its educational potential, with conflicting outcomes. We performed a review to explore the platform's ability to answer anatomical questions. METHODS: We search...PURPOSE: Gemini has been extensively investigated regarding its educational potential, with conflicting outcomes. We performed a review to explore the platform's ability to answer anatomical questions. METHODS: We searched PubMed, Scopus, ERIC and Cochrane library for papers about Gemini's ability to answer anatomical questions. From each included article, the following data were extracted: authors, version of Gemini, type (or types) and topic (or topics) of anatomical questions, the platform's performance, and presence or not of comparison of Gemini with other platforms or humans. RESULTS: Eight articles were included. Four of them involved only the oldest version of Gemini (Gemini 1.5), and four articles involved newer versions (Gemini 2.0 and Gemini 2.5). The scores achieved by Gemini 2.5 (98.2% and 91.4%) and Gemini 2.0 (90.3%, 89.2% and 96.4%) were consistently higher than those achieved by Gemini 1.5 (from 40% to 80.6%). For multiple-choice questions, the platform's performance varied from 63.7% (Gemini 1.5) to 98.2% (Gemini 2.5). Open-ended or mixed questions were asked only to Gemini 1.5, which scored from 40% to 80%, and particularly struggled to accurately answer questions concerning integration of anatomical knowledge into clinical scenarios. CONCLUSION: Newer Gemini versions demonstrated improved performance compared to Gemini 1.5. However, only multiple-choice anatomy questions were asked to the newer versions. There is lack of evidence that Gemini can achieve acceptable scores in answering open-ended, and especially clinically oriented, anatomical queries. The constant technological evolution will probably result in upgrade of Gemini's role in anatomical research and education.
Al-Tekreeti OBT, Al-Rawas M, Abdullah JY
… +2 more, Jassim SJ, Mahmood MH
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41734554
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BACKGROUND: The greater palatine groove (GPG), crest, and bridge show different forms; to avoid problems during dental implant and periodontal surgeries, it is important to know how they change their forms. It is the fir...BACKGROUND: The greater palatine groove (GPG), crest, and bridge show different forms; to avoid problems during dental implant and periodontal surgeries, it is important to know how they change their forms. It is the first time to be inspected in the Iraqi population. METHODS: Two hundred patients (100 males and 100 females), ranging from 18 to 86 years old, had their CBCT scans retrospectively analysed. The first (M6) and second molar (M7) areas were examined for the presence and frequency of GPGs, crests, and bridges. Using Chi-square and t-tests with a significance level of 0.05, the data was analysed using SPSS v23. RESULTS: The GPG was more often seen in the M7 area and in male cases. Three grooves were found, which had not been reported before. The M6 region mostly had flat grooves (93%), but the M7 region had shallow (35%) and deep (10%) grooves. Crests and bridges were also more common in males, with 6 M6 cases and 25 M7 cases showing bridges. CONCLUSION: The morphology of GPG exhibits significant anatomical variability. Acknowledgement of these variations is crucial to mitigate neurovascular injury risks during implant placement and local anaesthesia. This is the first time that these structures have been evaluated using CBCT in the Iraqi population. It provides dentists with useful information about their anatomy.
Massena M, Chaumoître K, Delteil C
… +4 more, Lesieur E, Bretelle F, Pierrcecchi MD, Adalian P
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41702367
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OBJECTIVES: To compare gestational-age estimation from pars basilaris maximal width (MW) and maximal length (ML) and from femur length (FL) measured on fetal CT, against first-trimester crown-rump length (CRL) as referen...OBJECTIVES: To compare gestational-age estimation from pars basilaris maximal width (MW) and maximal length (ML) and from femur length (FL) measured on fetal CT, against first-trimester crown-rump length (CRL) as reference, in fetuses with isolated short femur; and to assess the frequency and correlates of "decoupling" (discordance between biometric growth and physiological maturation). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all fetal CT scans performed between January 1, 2009 and May 31, 2023 in the public hospitals of Marseille for isolated short femur detected on antenatal ultrasonography. CT examinations were re-read, a standardized measurement protocol was defined, and intra- and inter-observer reproducibility were assessed. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-nine fetal CTs were included. Median maternal age was 30 years, and median gestational age at CT was 30 weeks. In decoupling situations, ML (95% confidence interval [CI], 29.3-31.1 weeks) and MW (95% CI, 29.3-31.0 weeks) dated gestation more accurately than FL (95% CI, 28.0-30.0 weeks). Pearson correlation coefficients with CRL-based gestational age were 0.867 for the mean of ML and MW, 0.856 for MW alone, and 0.851 for ML alone; FL showed the lowest correlation (0.798; all P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Pars basilaris-based dating (MW/ML) appears robust and clinically relevant in fetuses with isolated short femur, particularly when decoupling from FL is present.
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41690265
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INTRODUCTION: Piriformis syndrome remains underdiagnosed, particularly due to the anatomical complexity of the gluteal region. The aim of this study is to identify the anatomical variations most at risk for piriformis sy...INTRODUCTION: Piriformis syndrome remains underdiagnosed, particularly due to the anatomical complexity of the gluteal region. The aim of this study is to identify the anatomical variations most at risk for piriformis syndrome. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in English in PubMed and Scopus between November 2024 and December 2025. The search covered various types of studies reporting extractable data on the anatomical aspects of piriformis syndrome. The selection process for this study was conducted by a single reviewer in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS: A total of 16 studies were selected. Data analysis showed that anatomical variations of types A, B, C, D, and F according to the Beaton and Anson classification appear to be the most common. However, only types C and D of this classification, as well as the morphological variant of type A of the piriformis muscle, were clearly identified as the etiology of piriformis syndrome. CONCLUSION: Anatomical variations of the piriformis muscle and its relationship with the sciatic nerve are not uncommon and must be taken into account in the etiology of piriformis syndrome. Incorporating this anatomical data into an algorithm could enable earlier diagnosis and optimised treatment.
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41633206
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Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavour enhancer often added to restaurant foods, canned vegetables, soups, deli meats and other foods. The toxic effects of monosodium glutamate on the male reproductive system have been...Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavour enhancer often added to restaurant foods, canned vegetables, soups, deli meats and other foods. The toxic effects of monosodium glutamate on the male reproductive system have been recognized. This study aimed to investigate the impact of in utero exposure to a high-dose of MSG on the testicular morphometry and physical findings of Wistar rat offspring exposed intra-uterine. Forty (40) adult pregnant Wistar rats (150-200g) were randomly selected and divided into four groups. Group 1 (control) received distilled water, while groups 2, 3 and 4 received 1g/kg, 2g/kg, 4g/kg as 1mL body weight of MSG orally throughout pregnancy respectively. The pups were examined at delivery and allowed to grow for 4 weeks. The animals were sacrificed on the 28th day after delivery. The testes were harvested and weighed. Histomorphometric analysis of the testis were carried out and the morphometric parameters: diameter of seminiferous tubules, cross-sectional area (A) of seminiferous tubules, germinal epithelium thickness, the numerical density, seminiferous tubule numerical density and seminiferous volume were measured using photomicrograph and image J software. Data were analysed using ANOVA at α 0.05. The MSG-treated groups compared to the control group had higher body weights and alteration in the morphology of the testicular tissue. There was also a decrease in the diameter of the seminiferous tubule of the testis with an increasing dose of MSG, a dose-dependent decrease in the cross-sectional area of seminiferous tubules and the thickness of the testis germinal epithelia of the testis. Maternal exposure to high doses of monosodium glutamate adversely affected testicular morphometry and exacerbated testicular tissue alterations.
Djembi YR, Abiome R, Mikiéla A
… +6 more, Mba Mba C, Koussou R, Ndjota N, Bayonne Manou LS, Boumas N, Ondo Ndong F
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41604868
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INTRODUCTION: As a foundational discipline of medicine, human anatomy has historically been built around dissection. In many cultural contexts, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, representations of the body and death ma...INTRODUCTION: As a foundational discipline of medicine, human anatomy has historically been built around dissection. In many cultural contexts, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, representations of the body and death may limit post-mortem body donation and restrict access to dissection for educational purposes. OBJECTIVES: To analyze perceptions of body donation after death and human dissection in a Bantu context, to assess their stability over time, to situate them within an international comparative perspective, and to explore appropriate pedagogical alternatives. METHODS: Two successive cross-sectional surveys were conducted in Gabon among participants from the Université des Sciences de la Santé (USS, Libreville) and three regional hospitals: the first in 2013 (n=187) and the second between 2020 and 2025 (n=218). The same questionnaire, comprising 16 items grouped into five domains (motivations, perceptions of medical systems, representations of the body, attitudes toward body donation, and pedagogical resources), was used. A descriptive comparison of anatomy teaching modalities was performed with Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar (Senegal) and the University of Burgundy - Europe in Dijon (France). RESULTS: In both surveys, donation of one's own body after death was overwhelmingly rejected (more than 95% of participants), while a majority acknowledged the educational value of human dissection. In the absence of available bodies, the most frequently cited alternative resources were medical imaging, digital tools, and observation of surgical procedures. International comparison revealed marked differences: supervised and systematic dissection in France, occasional practices in Senegal, and the absence of dissection in Gabon. DISCUSSION: The study highlights the stability of representations related to body donation in Gabon, characterized by a persistent rejection of post-mortem donation despite recognition of the pedagogical value of dissection. This dissociation reflects a coexistence of cultural and biomedical rationalities observed in various international contexts. Organizational differences between Gabon, Senegal, and France underscore the need to adapt teaching practices to local constraints by integrating complementary alternatives to dissection. PERSPECTIVES: In contexts where access to human dissection remains limited, the progressive development of alternative pedagogical solutions combining digital tools, medical imaging, and anatomical simulation appears to be a pragmatic approach to strengthening anatomy education. In the longer term, the structuring of teaching and simulation facilities adapted to local cultural and institutional specificities could contribute to sustainable improvement in medical training. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate the lasting coexistence of cultural representations of the body and a shared recognition of the pedagogical value of dissection. In contexts where body donation remains limited, anatomy teaching should rely on a pluralistic and contextualized approach, combining descriptive rigor, functional reasoning, clinical grounding, and a reasoned use of pedagogical innovations.
Morphologie
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41604867
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A preliminary diagnosis of thrombocytopenia was made in a 79-year-old woman based on the results of a complete blood count. During the analysis of a peripheral blood film, platelet satellitism was noted. Platelet satelli...A preliminary diagnosis of thrombocytopenia was made in a 79-year-old woman based on the results of a complete blood count. During the analysis of a peripheral blood film, platelet satellitism was noted. Platelet satellitism can result in pseudothrombocytopenia or a spurious neutrophil count in automated analyzers.
Morphologie
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41529376
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Sex estimation plays a critical role in forensic identification, missing person identification, and forensic investigations. This study aimed to evaluate the usability of quantitative metric measurements obtained from co...Sex estimation plays a critical role in forensic identification, missing person identification, and forensic investigations. This study aimed to evaluate the usability of quantitative metric measurements obtained from computed tomography (CT) images of the atlas (the first cervical vertebra) for sex identification using machine learning algorithms. The study used CT images from 200 individuals (100 males and 100 females). Eighteen metric parameters of the atlas-comprising 16 lengths and 2 angles-were measured. These parameters were analyzed using 13 different machine learning algorithms. Basic statistical methods were used to compare the effect of each metric parameter on sex estimation. The machine learning models predicted sex with an accuracy ranging from 86% to 89%. The highest accuracy (89%) was achieved by the Gaussian Naive Bayes algorithm using only five selected metric parameters. Additionally, 15 out of the 18 measured parameters showed statistically significant differences between sexes. This study demonstrates that sex can be estimated with high accuracy using only quantitative metric measurements data from the atlas vertebra and machine learning algorithms. Notably, this approach may be especially valuable when only the atlas is available, providing essential preliminary data for forensic medical examinations.
Ndahimana P, Habumuremyi S, Niyibigira C
… +4 more, Archibong VB, Okesina A, Twagirumugabe T, Gashegu J
Morphologie
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41529375
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BACKGROUND: Anatomical variation in the brachial plexus exists at different levels. Knowledge on the variations in terminal branches is of utmost importance especially to anesthesiologists and surgeons for peripheral ner...BACKGROUND: Anatomical variation in the brachial plexus exists at different levels. Knowledge on the variations in terminal branches is of utmost importance especially to anesthesiologists and surgeons for peripheral nerve blocks' approaches and avoidance of perioperative complications during surgery respectively. We conducted this study to evaluate major variations in the local context. OBJECTIVE: The study was done to determine the anatomical variations in terminal branches of the brachial plexus among cadavers recruited from hospitals across Rwanda. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight brachial plexus (24 human donors) were dissected and examined to assess the branching pattern and possible variations of terminal branches. All specimens were formalin-fixed and dissected. Nerves were identified macroscopically with nacked eyes. To be more specific in dissection, magnifiers were used for some nerves in order to visualize them with much of precision. The study was approved by Institutional Review Board of the University of Rwanda. RESULTS: Forty-eight including 24 left and 24 right brachial plexuses (24 human donors) were dissected. All human bodies were adult aged between 28 and 72 years old. Considering gender disparity, 23/24 (96%) were male, only 1/24 (4%) was a female. From the 48 brachial plexus, 14 (29.2%) of them showed variations of its terminal branches where 9 cases (18.8%) are related to the variation of median nerve and 5 (10.4%) are related to other terminal branches. These deviations from the classical formation of the terminal branches may pose risks during surgical or anesthetic procedures if not known. They may also pose diagnostical challenges. CONCLUSION: Anatomical variation of terminal branches of the brachial plexus are important and should be taken into consideration during clinical procedures for effective diagnosis and management of patients.
Morphologie
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41529374
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Dental morphological traits provide valuable insights into global human variation and population structure. The Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System (ASUDAS) has long been a cornerstone for documenting cro...Dental morphological traits provide valuable insights into global human variation and population structure. The Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System (ASUDAS) has long been a cornerstone for documenting crown and root morphology, yet recent discussions have questioned its reliability for characterising population differences. This study aimed to (i) identify the ASUDAS traits most commonly analysed in recent research, and (ii) compare their reported frequencies with those documented in the foundational work of Turner and Scott. A systematic review identified 43 eligible studies comprising 36,919 individuals representing all major subdivisions of humankind. Thirty variants across 27 distinct traits were recorded most frequently, and 29 of these were subjected to meta-analysis using random-effects models. Nearly all traits showed significant between-group and within-group heterogeneity, indicating strong discriminatory potential but also substantial population-level variability. While broad patterns remain consistent with classic ASUDAS expectations, several traits exhibited expanded regional ranges, reflecting both greater sample diversity and admixture effects. These findings reaffirm the value of ASUDAS traits for describing broad-scale morphological patterns while underscoring the need for multi-trait, population-specific, and context-specific approaches when interpreting dental morphology in anthropological research.