Photogrammetry scans for neuroanatomy education - a new multi-camera system: technical note.

Photogrammetry scans has directed attention to the development of advanced camera systems to improve the creation of three-dimensional (3D) models, especially for educational and medical-related purposes. This could be a potential cost-effective method for neuroanatomy education, especially when access to laboratory-based learning is limited. The aim of this study was to describe a new photogrammetry system based on a 5 Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras setup to optimize accuracy of neuroanatomical 3D models. One formalin-fixed brain and specimen and one dry skull were used for dissections and scanning using the photogrammetry technique. After each dissection, the specimens were placed inside a new MedCreator® scanner (MedReality, Thyng, Chicago, IL) to be scanned with the final 3D model being displayed on SketchFab® (Epic, Cary, NC) and MedReality® platforms. The scanner consisted of 5 cameras arranged vertically facing the specimen, which was positioned on a platform in the center of the scanner. The new multi-camera system contains automated software packages, which allowed for quick rendering and creation of a high-quality 3D models. Following uploading the 3D models to the SketchFab® and MedReality® platforms for display, the models can be freely manipulated in various angles and magnifications in any devices free of charge for users. Therefore, photogrammetry scans with this new multi-camera system have the potential to enhance the accuracy and resolution of the 3D models, along with shortening creation time of the models. This system can serve as an important tool to optimize neuroanatomy education and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

3D Models as a Source for Neuroanatomy Education: A Stepwise White Matter Dissection Using 3D Images and Photogrammetry Scans.

White matter dissection (WMD) involves isolating bundles of myelinated axons in the brain and serves to gain insights into brain function and neural mechanisms underlying neurological disorders. While effective, cadaveric brain dissections pose certain challenges mainly due to availability of resources. Technological advancements, such as photogrammetry, have the potential to overcome these limitations by creating detailed three-dimensional (3D) models for immersive learning experiences in neuroanatomy. This study aimed to provide a detailed step-by-step WMD captured using two-dimensional (2D) images and 3D models (via photogrammetry) to serve as a comprehensive guide for studying white matter tracts of the brain. One formalin-fixed brain specimen was utilized to perform the WMD. The brain was divided in a sagittal plane and both cerebral hemispheres were stored in a freezer at -20 °C for 10 days, then thawed under running water at room temperature. Micro-instruments under an operating microscope were used to perform a systematic lateral-to-medial and medial-to-lateral dissection, while 2D images were captured and 3D models were created through photogrammetry during each stage of the dissection. Dissection was performed with comprehensive examination of the location, main landmarks, connections, and functions of the white matter tracts of the brain. Furthermore, high-quality 3D models of the dissections were created and housed on SketchFab®, allowing for accessible and free of charge viewing for educational and research purposes. Our comprehensive dissection and 3D models have the potential to increase understanding of the intricate white matter anatomy and could provide an accessible platform for the teaching of neuroanatomy.

Unraveling the plant diversity of the Amazonian canga through DNA barcoding.

The canga of the Serra dos Carajás, in Eastern Amazon, is home to a unique open plant community, harboring several endemic and rare species. Although a complete flora survey has been recently published, scarce to no genetic information is available for most plant species of the ironstone outcrops of the Serra dos Carajás. In this scenario, DNA barcoding appears as a fast and effective approach to assess the genetic diversity of the Serra dos Carajás flora, considering the growing need for robust biodiversity conservation planning in such an area with industrial mining activities. Thus, after testing eight different DNA barcode markers (matK, rbcL, rpoB, rpoC1, atpF-atpH, psbK-psbI, trnH-psbA, and ITS2), we chose rbcL and ITS2 as the most suitable markers for a broad application in the regional flora. Here we describe DNA barcodes for 1,130 specimens of 538 species, 323 genera, and 115 families of vascular plants from a highly diverse flora in the Amazon basin, with a total of 344 species being barcoded for the first time. In addition, we assessed the potential of using DNA metabarcoding of bulk samples for surveying plant diversity in the canga. Upon achieving the first comprehensive DNA barcoding effort directed to a complete flora in the Brazilian Amazon, we discuss the relevance of our results to guide future conservation measures in the Serra dos Carajás.

Secretory, endoscopic and histopathologic changes and prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in the gastroduodenal mucosa in patients with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis.

Aiming at establishing the prevalence of peptic ulcer in chronic alcoholic pancreatitis and an eventual correlation with gastric acid secretion and endoscopic and histopathologic alterations as well as the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the gastroduodenal mucosa, thirty patients with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis (Group I) and ten control subjects (Group II) were prospectively studied. After upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed. Group I was subdivided according to the lack (Subgroup Ia) or a presence (Subgroup Ib) of peptic ulcer. The prevalence of peptic ulcer in these patients was 23.33% clearly higher than that reported in the general population. Baseline and stimulated acid secretion as well as baseline gastrinemia among the subgroups and groups were similar. There was no statistically significant difference in the other parameters evaluated. Due to the increased prevalence of asymptomatic peptic ulcer in patients with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is suggested as a diagnosis routine and follow-up of this group of patients.

Primary extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the extrahepatic bile duct mimmicking Klatskin tumor.

This report describes one case of primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the extrahepatic biliary tree. The main symptom was obstructive jaundice. Cholangiography demonstrated stricture of the bile duct which resembled the appearance of cholangiocarcinoma. The surgical approach allowed complete ressection. The histopathological analyses showed a centrocitic-centroblastic follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma. She underwent chemotherapy, developed severe bone marrow hypoplasia, but 48 months after surgery, the patient is doing well.