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OBJECTIVE: This micro-computed tomography (MCT) study investigated the utility of thin-slab minimum-intensity projection (TS-MinIP) technique as an adjunct to 3-dimensional (3D) modeling for in-depth morphology study. STUDY DESIGN: One hundred one extracted maxillary first molars were scanned for microtomographic analysis (SkyScan). Two-dimensional TS-MinIP and 3D images of mesiobuccal (MB) roots were produced and analyzed to record the number and configurations of the canals, the incidence and location of accessory canals, loop, and intercanal connections, and number of foramina. RESULTS: Multiple-canal MB roots were present in 76.2%, and all of the roots had intercanal communications. Weine type III configuration was the most common in the multiple-canal roots. Accessory canals were found in 78.2% of the roots. Configurations that were nonclassifiable were found in 10.9% of the MB roots. CONCLUSIONS: MB root canal anatomy was complex, and MinIP may serve as an adjunct to 3D modeling for in-depth morphology study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to clarify the branching patterns of the mental nerve (MN) and intraosseous courses of the MN branches, and to determine the clinical relevance of the various courses of the MN branches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We investigated the topography of the MN by dissecting 31 hemifaces of Korean cadavers. Based on the distribution area of the MN, it was divided into angular (A), medial inferior labial (ILm), lateral inferior labial (ILl), and mental (M) branches. We classified the branching patterns of the 4 branches of the MN into 5 types. RESULTS: Type II, in which the MN divided into 3 branches (A, ILm, and M), with the ILl branch separating from the A branch, was the most common (35.4%). The MN was classified based on the shape of the anterior loop into loop, straight, and vertical patterns, which constituted 61.5%, 23.1%, and 15.4%, respectively. In the mandibular canal, the inferior alveolar nerve completely divided into the MN and the dental nerve, which supplies the teeth. In 17 cases (81%), the nerve bundles constituting the A branch were located at the superior aspect, whereas the nerve bundles of the inferior labial and mental branches were in the middle and inferior aspects within the mandibular canal, respectively, at the mental foramen region. CONCLUSION: These observations can help clinicians to predict the location or extent of paresthesia in the facial region according to the location and extent of nerve damage during dental implant surgery or genioplasty. Copyright © 2007 by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to elucidate the positions of the extended fibers of the alar part of the nasalis (Na), and their connections to the levator labii superioris (LLS), zygomaticus minor (Zmi), and adjacent skin near the nasal ala., Methods: The extended fibers of the Na were investigated in 54 specimens obtained from 27 embalmed adult South Korean cadavers., Results: In 51.9% of the specimens, some fibers of the Na extended over the alar facial crease, intermingling or blending with the LLS or Zmi, and attached to the skin lateral to the nasal ala. The quantity and distribution of these extended fibers varied: some fibers of the Na extended and intermingled or blended with the LLS in 25.9%, while another 25.9% exhibited the Na extending in a distinctive fan shape with longer fibers, and combining with both the LLS and Zmi. However, the Na had no extended fibers that reached the LLS, Zmi, or skin near the nasal ala in 48.1%., Conclusion: Contraction of the Na and its extended fibers can influence the nasal ala and also the laterally located skin and muscles, directing them inferomedially toward the incisive fossa of the maxilla, which is the origin of the nasalis. These insights offer a deeper understanding of the role and actions of facial muscles in facial expression. They will be instrumental in the comprehension and analysis of nose and mouth movements, and in conducting electromyographic analyses in this region., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

Present case report describes a case of bifid ureter arising directly from separate calyces and renal pelvis of the kidney. Incomplete ureter duplication on the left side in a 78-year-old male cadaver was found during an anatomy class. These ureters converged in a Y-shaped pattern just above the level of the anterior superior iliac spine. In the coronal section of the kidney, the anterior ureter arose from a renal pelvis that was divided into two major calyces in the lower two-thirds of the kidney. On the other hand, the posterior ureter was directly connected to a major calyx in the upper third of the kidney, without the formation of a renal pelvis. This anatomical variation has implications for diagnostic approaches, especially in the use of imaging techniques by urologists for the insertion of stents in the treatment of phyelonephritis.

Background: The superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) is crucial for the structural integrity and dynamics of facial expressions and is a particularly important consideration during facelift surgeries. This study investigated the anatomical structure and continuity of the SMAS at the site where the zygomaticus major (Zmj) originates, which is where the SMAS extends from the lateral to the anterior aspects of the face. Knowledge of these aspects is crucial for understanding the mechanics of facial movements and also the aging process., Methods: Dissections of 66 specimens and histological analyses were used to explore the intricate relationships and attachments between the SMAS and facial muscles., Results: The findings indicated that at the Zmj origin site, the SMAS-connected to the inferior margin of the orbicularis oculi-covered the superficial surface of the Zmj fibers. As it tracked downward, the SMAS was observed to split into two layers lateral to the Zmj fibers, enveloping them both superficially and deeply. Additionally, as the SMAS continued forward, it ceased to be distinctly visible in the buccal area., Conclusions: These results provide a deeper understanding of the complex layering and interconnectivity of the SMAS, which supports facial dynamics and structural integrity. This information could be particularly useful in surgical and aesthetic procedures in the midfacial area.

Purpose: For basic training in ultrasonography (US), medical students and residents must learn cross-sectional anatomy. However, the present educational material is not sufficient to learn the sectional anatomy for US. This study aimed to provide a criterion for reading ambiguous structures on US images of upper limb through the sectioned images of Visible Korean., Methods: US images of the right arm of a volunteer were scanned (28 planes). For comparison with US images, the sectioned images of the right upper limb (24 bits color, 0.5 mm intervals, 0.06 mm × 0.06 mm sized pixel) were used. After the volume model was constructed from the sectioned images using MRIcroGL, new sectioned images of 28 planes corresponding to the US images of 28 planes were created by adjusting the slope of the volume model. In all images, the anatomical terms of 59 structures from the shoulder to the fingers were annotated., Results: In the atlas, which consists of 28 sets of US images and sectioned images of various slope planes, 59 structures of the shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, palm, and fingers were observed in detail., Conclusion: We were able to interpret the ambiguous structures on the US images using the sectioned images with high resolution and actual color. Therefore, to learn the cross-sectional anatomy for US, the sectioned images from the Visible Korean project were deemed to be the suitable data because they contained all human gross anatomical information., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

The infratemporal fossa and pterygopalatine fossa are critical pathways for blood vessels and nerves leading to the orbit, nasal cavity, and oral cavity. Anatomical observation of these areas is challenging for learners due to their complex connections with surrounding structures and their deep location within the body. Since it is not easy to understand this area in three dimensions with only textbook images, there is a need to produce three-dimensional (3D) content. Most existing 3D data have reconstructed the digital imaging and communication in medicine files from computed tomography images with high accuracy; however, the surrounding structures often obstruct the view. For this reason, this project utilized Cinema4D (R18; Maxon) software to refine the modeled bones and to create 3D models of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves that accurately represent their anatomical shapes and pathways. To facilitate easier access for learners via PC, the content was converted into PDF format. This enables the educational materials to be more easily viewed and the main structures more clearly observed using a computer-based viewer.

Background: Understanding the attachment patterns of the corrugator supercilii muscle (CS) is vital for treatments designed to improve facial symmetry and functionality., Objectives: The aim of this research was to elucidate the anatomical trajectory and intricate relationships of the CS within the upper face and midface, specifically focusing on its connections with the frontalis (FT) and orbicularis oculi (OOc) muscles., Methods: The CS was examined in 41 specimens of embalmed adult Korean cadavers using microdissection, histological analyses, and microcomputed tomography, an in-depth exploration of its anatomical positioning and intricate interactions with adjacent muscles., Results: Some lower fibers of the CS extended to the upper orbital part of the OOc in 59.5% of cases, while the CS interdigitated or blended exclusively with the FT in 40.5% of cases. The fibers of the CS demonstrated diverse extensions towards the upper face and midface, exhibiting varied trajectories and lengths. Additionally, lower fibers of the CS extended to significant anatomical landmarks such as the OOc, malaris muscle, and the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS)., Conclusions: This study demonstrates that precise understanding of the CS and its relationship with the FT and OOc is crucial for optimizing invasive or non-invasive treatment like botulinum toxin injection, SMAS lifting and browplasty surgery. The extension of lower fibers of the CS to significant anatomical landmarks indicates complex interactions with adjacent facial structures, highlighting the necessity of detailed anatomical knowledge for clinical applications., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Aesthetic Society. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Background: Current anatomical knowledge of the origin of the bucinator muscle (BM), i.e., long thin attachments on the maxilla and mandible and the pterygomandibular raphe (PMR), is not supported by anatomical dissection of this muscle. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the detailed morphology of the BM and associated structures and to discuss its function., Methods: The anatomy of the BM and related structures was investigated in 15 cadaveric heads using a surgical microscope and histological analysis., Results: The inferior fibers of the BM originated from a small retromolar area (internal oblique line), which shared a common tendon with the deep tendon of the temporalis. The superior fibers of the BM originated from the maxillary tuberosity. The middle fibers originated the pterygoid hamulus. No PMR was identified in any of the specimens, but the border between the BM and superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle (SC) was clear because the muscle fibers followed different directions. Some horizontal fibers were continuous between the BM and SC., Conclusions: Our results suggest the need to revise established accounts of the origins of the bucinator (the maxillary tuberosity, conjoint tendon of the temporalis, and pterygoid hamulus without a pterygomandibular raphe. It also needs to be noted that some of its fibers merge directly with the SC., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

A special differential interferometer consisting of two gratings was developed for diagnostics of plasma density. Compared with other differential interferometers, our system has an important advantage that the shear distance, shear direction, and fringe width can be adjusted independently , enabling easy control of the parameters. This feature allows precise tuning of the two probe beams in the interferometer for rigorous differential phase diagnosis and more accurate information of the plasma density can be obtained. The double-grating-based differential interferometer was tested for diagnostics of the laser-produced plasma which was generated by focusing a 1 TW/35 fs Ti:sapphire laser pulse in a gas jet with a 100 μ m orifice diameter. It was confirmed that our differential interferometer can provide more reliable and accurate plasma density information, especially for plasmas with a high spatial gradient in density.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to characterize the origin and course of the zygomaticus major muscle (Zmj) with its topographic relationships with the nasal ala, tragus, philtrum, and lateral canthus., Methods: The Zmj was examined in 50 specimens of 25 embalmed adult Korean cadavers. Facial muscles were dissected to expose the origin and course of the Zmj in 48 specimens of 24 cadavers. The 25th cadaver was sectioned to obtain images of the Zmj., Results: The positional relationships of the Zmj origin with the nasal ala and the tragus were classified into three categories. A horizontal line through the center of the Zmj origin and the nasal ala passed through the tragus in 20 of 48 specimens (41.7%), the intertragic notch in 18 specimens (37.5%), and above the tragus in 10 specimens (20.8%). In a horizontal section of the head, the Zmj origin was located near the level of the nasal ala and tragus. In a coronal section of the head, the fibers of the Zmj arising at its origin were located close to the zygomatic bone, lateral to the zygomaticus minor muscle., Conclusion: By combining dissection with the analysis of sectioned images and ultrasound images of the Zmj, this study has yielded positional information for easily predicting the location of the origin and the course of the Zmj and its related structures underlying the skin., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

The present study used microdissection, histology, and microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) with the aims of determining the prevalence and patterns of the depressor septi nasi (DSN) and orbicularis oris (OOr) muscles attached to the footplate of the medial crus (fMC) of the major alar cartilage, focusing on their crossing fibers. The DSN and OOr attached to the fMC of the major alar cartilage were investigated in 76 samples from 38 embalmed Korean adult cadavers (20 males, 18 females; mean age 70 years). The DSN, OOr, or both were attached to the fMC. When the DSN ran unilaterally or was absent, some OOr fibers ascended to attach to the fMC instead of the DSN in 20.6% of the samples. Crossing fibers of the DSN or OOr attached to the fMC were found in 82.4% of the samples. Bilateral and unilateral crossing fibers were found in 32.4% and 50.0%, respectively, and no crossing fibers were found in 17.6%. The DSN and OOr that attached to the fMC could be categorized into six types according to presence of the DSN and the crossing patterns of the DSN and OOr. Anatomical findings of the DSN and OOr that attached to the fMC were confirmed in histology and micro-CT images. These findings offer insights on anatomical mechanisms that may underlie the dynamic pulling forces generated by muscles that attach to the fMCs and on evolutionary variation observed in human facial expressions. They can also provide useful information for guiding rhinoplasty of the nasal tip., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the width of the fibers that extend from the orbicularis oculi muscle (OOc) to the upper lip, and the lateral and inferior lengths of the OOc at the lateral canthus level., Methods: The OOc was investigated in the 40 hemifaces of 20 Korean cadavers. The lateral fibers of the OOc (OOc lat) were traced to determine whether or not these fibers extended to the upper lip., Results: The OOc lat extended to the upper lip at the lateral canthus level in 31 of the 40 specimens (77.5%), whereas some inferolateral fibers of the OOc that extended to the upper lip were observed near the level of the lower margin of the OOc in the other 9 specimens (22.5%). The mean ± SD and maximum widths of the OOc lat that extended to the upper lip at the lateral canthus level were 6.9 ± 3.3 mm and 14.3 mm, respectively., Conclusion: The obtained data will be helpful to distinguish the muscles that underly the wrinkles around the lateral canthus for safer and more-efficient BoNT-A treatments for crow's feet., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

We present a novel scheme to obtain robust, narrowband, and tunable THz emission using a nano-dimensional overdense plasma target, irradiated by two counter-propagating detuned laser pulses. So far, no narrowband THz sources with a field strength of GV/m-level have been reported from laser-solid interaction (mostly half-or single-cycle THz pulses with only broadband frequency spectrum). From two- and three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations, we find that the strong plasma current generated by the beat ponderomotive force in the colliding region, produces beat-frequency radiation in the THz range. Here we report intense THz pulses [Formula: see text]THz) with an unprecedentedly high peak field strength of 11.9 GV/m and spectral width [Formula: see text], which leads to a regime of an extremely bright narrowband THz source of TW/cm[Formula: see text], suitable for various ambitious applications., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background Trigeminal-facial nerve communications have been recognized for over 100 years. More specifically, the mental nerve (MN) and marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve (MMb) communication have been studied but the termination of these branches remains unclear. Therefore, we aim to classify the anatomical communication between the MN and MMb by its course. Methods Sixty sides from thirty adult cadaveric heads were dissected. The communicating branches were dissected and observed anatomically and histologically. Results Communication between the MN and MMb was found on all sides. Based on the course, the communication was classified into two types, superior and anterior. For the superior type, a small branch of the MN and MMb join and travel superiorly to reach the lower lip area. The communication was observed at the level of the mental foramen or above it. For the anterior type, a small branch of the MN and MMb join and travel anteriorly to reach the chin area. The termination was either in the subcutaneous tissue of the chin or in the mentalis. This communication was observed below the mental foramen. Histological observation revealed that these communications contained two or more perineuria. Conclusions Although the function of such neural communications is still unclear, this study helps better understand the anatomical variants of these unions and provides a novel classification system., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2023, Iwanaga et al.)

Anatomy of the superior labial frenulum (SLF), at first glance, seems to be well established. However, existing studies on the SLF lack description of the incisivus labii superioris (ILS), which cannot be ignored when discussing the SLF. We believe that thorough understanding of the SLF necessitates the anatomical knowledge of the ILS. This study aimed to elucidate the anatomical relationship between the orbicularis oris (OO), ILS, and SLF. A total of 20 formalin fixed human cadaveric specimens were used for gross anatomical and/or histological observation. For histological observation, all specimens were stained with Masson-trichrome. The SLF was a mucosal fold between the gingival mucosa and alveolar mucosa with connective tissue deep to it. The connective tissue attached to the alveolar bone in the junction between the right and left ILS. Skeletal muscle fibers other than orbicularis oris was found in one specimen, which were considered the ILS. During a frenulectomy, removal of the connective tissue bundle is required to prevent recurrence of the high SLF insertion., (© 2022 American Association of Clinical Anatomists and British Association of Clinical Anatomists.)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to elucidate the positional relationship between the courses of the angular veins and the facial muscles, and the possible roles of the latter as alternative venous valves., Methods: The angular veins of 44 specimens of embalmed Korean adult cadavers were examined. Facial muscles were studied to establish their relationships with the angular vein, including the orbicularis oculi (OOc), depressor supercilii (DS), zygomaticus minor (Zmi), zygomaticus major (Zmj), and levator labii superioris (LLS)., Results: In the upper face of all specimens, the angular vein passed through the DS and descended to the medial palpebral ligament. In the midface, it passed between the origin of the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN) and the inferior OOc fibers. The vein coursed along the deep surface of the inferior margin of the OOc in all specimens. At the level of the nasal ala, the course of the angular vein was classified into three types: in type I it passed between the LLS and Zmi (38.6%), in type II it passed between the superficial and deep fibers of the Zmi (47.7%), and in type III it passed between the Zmi and Zmj (13.6%). In the lower face of all specimens, the angular or facial vein passed through the anterior lobe of the buccal fat pad., Conclusion: This study found that the angular vein coursed along the sites where facial muscle contractions are assumed to efficiently compress the veins, likely controlling venous flow as valves. The observations made and analysis performed in this study will improve the understanding of the physiological function of the facial muscles as alternative venous valves., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

The aim of the present study was to determine the contribution of the orbicularis oculi (OOc) to the zygomaticus major (Zmj) in connecting the orbital region to the corner of the mouth. The OOc and Zmj of 22 embalmed adult Korean cadavers were dissected in 44 hemifaces. The OOc fibers were traced to determine their contribution to the Zmj. Parts of the superficial bundle in the orbital region of the OOc extended directly or indirectly to the Zmj in 22.7% of the specimens. The anatomical contribution of the OOc to the Zmj was divided into three categories depending on whether the connection between them was direct or indirect: (1) superficial orbital OOc fibers extended directly to the Zmj in 6.8% of the specimens, (2) superficial orbital OOc fibers extended to the zygomaticus minor and their small portion joined to the upper fibers of the Zmj in 15.9% of the specimens, and (3) no connection was identified between the OOc and Zmj in 77.3% of the specimens. The results of this study provide further anatomical insight into the relationship between the OOc and zygomaticus muscle complex. This information could be helpful for elucidating the anatomy of smiling and treatment and surgery designs for balanced or ideal smiles., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

The vasculature of the pituitary gland is discussed briefly and the details of an anatomical discovery of the vessels supplying the pituitary gland provided. Twenty latex injected cadaveric heads were dissected. Any vessels that were found to penetrate the sella turcica and travel to the pituitary gland were documented and measured. Additionally, 25 adult skulls were evaluated for the presence, size, and sites of bony foramina in the floor of sella turcica. Trans-sellar vessels were identified in 65% of specimens. There was a mean of 1.5 vessels per specimen consisting usually of a mixture of veins and arteries. The mean diameter of these vessels was 0.3 mm and the mean length from the sella turcica to the pituitary gland was 2.3 mm. These vessels were concentrated in the most concave part of the sella turcica. In bony specimens, the mean number of trans-sellar foramina was four. The diameter of these foramina ranged from 0.3 to 0.6 mm in size. The trans-sellar foramina were concentrated near the center part of the sella turcica and had no regular pattern. The pituitary gland receives at least some blood supply and drainage via vessels traveling along the septum of the sphenoidal sinuses and through the sella turcica. Knowledge of such vessels might lead to a better understanding of the vascular supply and drainage of the pituitary gland and would be useful during skull base approaches such as trans-nasal approaches to the pituitary gland.

Extracranial-intracranial bypass has been shown to be effective in the surgical treatment of moyamoya disease, complex aneurysms, and tumors that involve proximal vasculature in carefully selected patients. Branches of the superficial temporal artery (STA) are used commonly for the bypass surgery; however, an appropriate length of the donor vessel must be harvested to avoid failure secondary to anastomotic tension. The goal of this cadaveric study was to investigate quantitatively operative techniques that can increase the STA length available to facilitate tension-free STA-middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypass. We conducted a cadaveric study using a total of 16 sides in eight cadavers. Measurements of the STA trunk with its frontal branch (STAfb) were taken before and after skeletonization and detethering of the STA with the STAfb and mobilization of the parietal branch of the STA. A final measurement of the STA with the STAfb was taken for the free length gained toward visible proximal cortical branches of the MCA. Paired student's t-tests were used to compare the mean length before and after mobilization and unpaired t-tests to analyze according to laterality. The mean length of the STA with the STAfb was 9.0 cm prior to modification. After skeletonization and mobilization, the mean lengths increased significantly to 10.5 and 11.3 cm, respectively (p < 0.05). Especially in the cases that had the coiled and tortuous STA, skeletonization was considerably effective to increase the length of the STA with the STAfb. After simulating a bypass by bringing the STAfb to the recipient MCA site, the mean extended length of the STA with the STAfb was 3.0 cm. There were no statistically significant differences between sides in all measurements. We report a significant increase in the mean STA length available (3.0 cm) following skeletonization and mobilization. Clinical applications of the extended length of the STA with the STAfb may facilitate tension-free STA-MCA bypasses and improve outcomes. Further studies are needed in a clinical context., (© 2021 American Association of Clinical Anatomists.)

Purpose: Potential asymmetries of the C2 posterior elements pose a problem for the spine surgeon seeking to make the best choice for spinal stabilization while reducing morbidity., Methods: A digital caliper was used to measure the pars interarticularis height and length on left and right sides of 25 adult C2 vertebrae. The pars interarticularis was defined as the bone between the posterior most aspect of the superior articular process and the anterior most aspect of the inferior articular process of C2. Also, the C2 vertebrae from 49 patients were scanned by CT. Parasagittal images were reviewed and using the same definitions as were used for the skeletal specimens, the length and the height of the C2 pars interarticularis from both the left and right sides were measured using CT. The image slices were acquired at 3 mm intervals. The pars interarticularis height was determined on sagittal CT reconstruction, while the pars interarticularis length was calculated on the basis of the axial images., Results: The lengths and the heights of the left and right pars interarticularis were compared using CTs of patients and skeletal specimens. No significant differences were found in the length and height measurements of the CT images on both sides. However, in the skeletal specimens, the left and right pars interarticularis did not differ significantly in length but differed significantly in height (p = 0.003). The mean height of the left pars interarticularis was approximately two times larger than the right in the skeletal specimens. Absolute differences were calculated between the side with the greater length and height and the side with the lesser length and height irrespective of their left-right orientations. For CT measurements, most differences in length and height between the greater pars interarticularis and lesser pars interarticularis occurred between 0 and 1 mm with each successive disparity interval yielding lower numbers. Skeletal measurements revealed a similar length disparity distribution to the CT measurements. However, height measurements in the skeletal specimens varied widely. Eight pars interarticularis specimens demonstrated a height difference between 0 and 1 mm. No dry bone pars interarticularis specimens demonstrated a height difference between 1 and 2 mm. The pars interarticularis of nine specimens demonstrated a height difference between 2 and 3 mm. Two demonstrated a height difference between 3 and 4 mm. Four demonstrated a height difference between 4 and 5 mm and two demonstrated a height difference greater than 5 mm. The greater pars interarticularis lengths and heights were combined and compared to their lesser counterparts on CT and skeletal measurements. In all measurements of this type, significant differences were found in the pars interarticularis length and height, whether measured through CT or via digital calipers., Conclusion: Asymmetry between the left and right C2 pars interarticularis as shown in the present study can alter surgical planning. Therefore, knowledge of this anatomical finding might be useful to spine surgeons., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

The aim of this study was to determine how the depressor supercilii (DS) connects to the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN) and inferior fibers of the orbicularis oculi (OOc INF) in the human midface. While grimacing, contraction of the DS with fibers connecting to the LLSAN and OOc INF can assist in pulling the medial eyebrow downward more than when these connecting fibers are not present. Contraction of these distinct connecting fibers between the DS and the LLSAN can also slightly elevate the nasal ala and upper lip. The DS was examined in 44 specimens of embalmed adult Korean cadavers. We found that the DS connected to the LLSAN or the OOc INF by muscle fibers or thin aponeuroses in 33 (75.0%) of the 44 specimens. The DS was connected to both the LLSAN and OOc INF by muscle fibers or aponeuroses and had no connection to either in 5 (11.4%) and 11 (25.0%) specimens, respectively. The DS was connected to the LLSAN by the muscle fibers and thin aponeuroses in 6 (13.6%) and 4 (9.1%) specimens, respectively. The DS was connected to the OOc INF by the muscle fibers and thin aponeuroses in 5 (11.4%) and 23 (52.3%) specimens, respectively. Our findings regarding the anatomical connections of the glabellar region DS to the midface LLSAN and OOc INF provide insights on the dynamic balance between the brow depressors such as the DS and brow-elevating muscle and contribute to understanding the anatomical origins of individual variation in facial expressions. These results can also improve the safety, predictability, and aesthetics of treatments for the glabellar region with botulinum toxin type A and can be helpful when performing electromyography., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Background: The aim of this study was to clarify the morphology of the mylohyoid branch of the inferior alveolar artery and the main blood supply to the mylohyoid muscle., Methods: The maxillary artery (MA) and inferior alveolar artery (IAA) within the infratemporal fossa, the facial and submental arteries within the submandibular triangle, and the nerve to the mylohyoid muscle and related artery were dissected in twelve sides from embalmed cadaveric heads. The main blood supply to the extraoral (inferior) surface of the mylohyoid muscle was recorded., Results: The mylohyoid branch of the inferior alveolar artery was an anastomosis of the descending branch of either the inferior alveolar or maxillary artery and the ascending branch of either the submental or facial artery. The anastomosis was classified into four types according to the origins of the arteries. The main blood supply to the extraoral surface of the mylohyoid muscle was the submental artery., Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that the mylohyoid branch of the IAA in human adults is an anastomosis of branches of the maxillary and facial arteries., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Since cone-beam computed tomography was developed, a number of radiological studies on the bifid mandibular canals (BMCs) and trifid mandibular canals (TMCs) have been reported. However, many of the suggested subtypes of the BMC described in the literature seem to be normal branches of the inferior alveolar nerve. This might be due to a lack of revisiting classic anatomical studies in the field of radiology. Therefore, such studies are revisited here., Methods: A database search using PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted on BMC and TMC. Eighty-nine articles underwent full-text assessment. The reported three classifications of BMC and the six modified classifications were reviewed and compared to the intramandibular inferior alveolar nerve branches., Results: Some subtypes of BMC and TMC simply represent normal inferior alveolar nerve branches, i.e., retromolar branch, molar branch (alveolar branch/dental branch), large mental branch, or communicating branch. Others such as Naitoh's type III BMC and forward canal might be a true BMC., Conclusion: We found that the bifid mandibular canal is an additional intramandibular canal running parallel to the mandibular canal with/without confluence with the main canal through comparison of classifications of BMC/TMC between the radiology and anatomy fields., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

This study was conducted to determine the muscular arrangement of the human pyloric sphincter using a comprehensive approach that involved microdissection, histology, and microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). The stomachs of 80 embalmed Korean adult cadavers were obtained. In all specimens, loose muscular tissue of the innermost aspect of the sphincter wall ran aborally, forming the newly found inner longitudinal muscle bundles, entered the duodenum, and connected with the nearby circular bundles. In all specimens, approximately one-third of the outer longitudinal layer of the sphincter entered its inner circular layer, divided the circular layer into several parts, and finally connected with the circular bundles. Anatomical findings around the sphincter were confirmed in micro-CT images. The sphincter wall comprised three layers: an inner layer of longitudinal bundles, a middle layer of major circular and minor longitudinal bundles, and an outer layer of longitudinal bundles. The stomach outer longitudinal bundles were connected to the sphincter circular bundles. The inner longitudinal bundles of the sphincter were connected to the adjacent circular bundles of the duodenum., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) has been clarified that imbalance of bacterial and fungal communities in the skin and gut play key roles in immunologic dysfunction. Atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC), one of severe ophthalmic manifestation of AD, could be related with dysbiosis as same as AD., Objective: In this case-control study, the roles of conjunctival microbial communities in AKC were evaluated by a comparative analysis with healthy controls (HCs)., Methods: 16S rRNA sequencing was used to construct libraries of compositional information for a total of 30 volunteers including 20 patients with AKC and 10 HCs., Results: In the results, variation in the conjunctival taxonomic composition was higher in patients with AKC than in the HC group. In an analysis of relative abundance at the genus level, some taxa significantly differed between groups, including Ralstonia , Staphylococcus , Pseudomonas , Proteus , Haemophilus , and Bifidobacterium ( p <0.05). Beta diversity was significantly higher in patients with AKC than in HCs (PERMANOVA, p =0.004)., Conclusion: The results indicated that the diversity and composition of the microbiome differs between patients with AKC and HCs., Competing Interests: CONFLICTS OF INTEREST: The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 The Korean Dermatological Association and The Korean Society for Investigative Dermatology.)

A minute thrombus can pass through a small type of interatrial communication, which can result in a stroke or transient ischemic attack and several associated symptoms. This study sought to investigate a new type of interatrial communication. Thirty-one hearts from embalmed adult cadavers were investigated. Each interatrial channels (IACs) was classified as either an open or obstructed channel according to the connection of each hole on the right and left surfaces of the interatrial septum. Open channels were found in two specimens (6.5%). Both open and obstructed IACs followed tortuous courses through the interatrial septum. On the right surface of the interatrial septum, the hole was usually found adjacent to the left border of the interatrial septum between the opening of the superior vena cava into the right atrium and the superior margin of the fossa ovalis. Conversely, holes on the left surface of the interatrial septum were usually found in the upper and middle parts adjacent to the left border of the interatrial septum. This novel finding is expected to support our understanding of the onset of possible symptoms such as stroke in the absence of classical atrial septal defects., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

The purpose of this study was to perform a review of the literature related to the anatomy of the mandibular lingula and to provide information to improve the execution of effective anaesthesia of the inferior alveolar nerve in clinical practices of the mandible. Prognathic mandibles have a lingula that is located more posterior and superior than non-prognathic mandibles. Most of the lingulae are located above the occlusal plane, but it is occasionally located at or below the occlusal plane. The lingula of the triangular shape was generally located slightly more superior and posterior than other shapes. The mandibular lingula is an important anatomical landmark, and accurate information for exact lingula features is required during inferior alveolar nerve block anaesthesia. Proper evaluation of the lingula is key to effective anaesthesia and decreases the failure rate of the inferior alveolar nerve in clinical practices of the mandible.

The aim of this study was to clarify the heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles acting on the nasolabial fold (NLF) by dissection and three-dimensional microcomputed tomography for use in aesthetic treatments. This study used 56 specimens from 34 embalmed adult Korean. A reference line (RF) was set to imitate the NLF after removing the skin, from the superior point of the alar facial crease to the lateral point of the orbicularis oris muscle at the level of the corner of the mouth. The heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles along the RF could be categorized into five main patterns. The dominant pattern was that the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle (LLSAN), levator labii superioris muscle (LLS), zygomaticus minor muscle (Zmi), and zygomaticus major muscle (Zmj) were on the medial third, medial half, middle third, and lateral third of the RF, respectively. In micro-CT imaging, beneath the skin of the medial half of the NLF, the LLSAN and Zmi fibers inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the middle third of the NLF, the Zmi fibers were found before the muscle inserted into the dermis of the NLF and adjacent to the NLF. Beneath the skin of the lateral third of the NLF, the lateral margin of the orbicularis oris muscle and some Zmj fibers were found at the location of the NLF. The present study utilized dissections and micro-CT to reveal the general pattern and variations of heights and spatial relationships of the facial muscles passing beneath the NLF. These findings will be useful for understanding which muscles affect specific parts of NLFs with various contours, for reducing the NLF in aesthetic treatments, and for reconstructing the NLF in cases of facial paralysis., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

The aim of this study was to clarify the muscular architecture of the abdominal part of the esophagus and the stomach. This study investigated 60 embalmed Korean adult cadavers. The circular and oblique fibers of the stomach that originated from the abdominal part of the esophagus crossed each other in the cardia. The arrangement of the circular fibers of the stomach differed between its anterior and posterior surfaces in all specimens (100%). On the posterior surface of the stomach, the circular and longitudinal fibers on the greater curvature merged and ran parallel toward the fundus. The three layers of the musculature of the stomach have different arrangements in different regions of the stomach and are connected to each other. Understanding the muscular architecture of the stomach and the abdominal part of the esophagus can be helpful when evaluating stomach motility and performing various types of gastrectomy. Clin. Anat. 33:530-537, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: The shape and function of the longitudinal muscular column (LMC) of the prostate have not been established in detail. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the roles of the LMC of the posterior wall of the prostatic urethra (PSU) in the emission phase of ejaculation by investigating the form and muscular arrangement of the LMC., Methods: Prostates and urinary bladders were obtained from 14 Korean adult cadavers. Nine specimens were histologically analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, and Verhoeff-van Gieson staining. Two specimens were scanned using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), and all scanned images were reconstructed into a three-dimensional model., Results: At the proximal level of the prostate, the ejaculatory ducts (EDs) and prostatic utricle (PU) together were surrounded by circular smooth-muscle fibers. However, at the seminal colliculus (SC) where the EDs and PU opened, they were mainly surrounded by an abundance of longitudinal fibers. The longitudinal fibers posterior to the EDs and PU formed a distinctive LMC in the posterior urethral wall. In histologic sections and micro-CT images, the LMC extended distally from the level of the SC to the level of the membranous urethra (MBU). We simulated a potential mechanism of LMC using a mathematical model of its movements., Conclusions: Comprehensive analyses based on in-depth assessment of histologic characteristics and micro-CT images demonstrated extension of the LMC from the level of the SC to the level of the MBU, enabling a better understanding of ejaculation physiology involving the LMC. These results suggest that the LMC in the posterior wall of the PSU is a critical component of ejaculation by facilitating the ejection of seminal vesicle fluid into the PSU via well-coordinated contractions., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: Psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease in which imbalance of the immunological response may be associated with disease severity and comorbidities. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a growing concern for treatment of psoriasis, as the use of biologics has recently increased., Objectives: To investigate the clinical and immunological influence of LTBI on the features of psoriasis., Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 300 patients with psoriasis using clinical information, including severity, comorbidities, and presence of LTBI. Serum cytokine levels were measured for immunological analysis., Results: The prevalence of psoriatic arthritis (p = 0.001) and nail psoriasis (p = 0.014) in patients with LTBI was significantly higher than in those without LTBI, although other data including the Psoriasis Area Severity Index showed no association. The serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-23A in the LTBI-positive group were higher than those in the LTBI-negative group (p = 0.014, p = 0.025, and p = 0.004, respectively)., Conclusion: LTBI may be a risk factor for the development of psoriatic arthritis during chronic inflammatory conditions induced by tuberculosis infection.

Genes and neural circuits coordinately regulate animal sleep. However, it remains elusive how these endogenous factors shape sleep upon environmental changes. Here, we demonstrate that Shaker (Sh)-expressing GABAergic neurons projecting onto dorsal fan-shaped body (dFSB) regulate temperature-adaptive sleep behaviors in Drosophila. Loss of Sh function suppressed sleep at low temperature whereas light and high temperature cooperatively gated Sh effects on sleep. Sh depletion in GABAergic neurons partially phenocopied Sh mutants. Furthermore, the ionotropic GABA receptor, Resistant to dieldrin (Rdl), in dFSB neurons acted downstream of Sh and antagonized its sleep-promoting effects. In fact, Rdl inhibited the intracellular cAMP signaling of constitutively active dopaminergic synapses onto dFSB at low temperature. High temperature silenced GABAergic synapses onto dFSB, thereby potentiating the wake-promoting dopamine transmission. We propose that temperature-dependent switching between these two synaptic transmission modalities may adaptively tune the neural property of dFSB neurons to temperature shifts and reorganize sleep architecture for animal fitness.

Interleukin 17 (IL-17) plays pivotal role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. In a previous study, we identified a locus in the IL17F gene that is associated with psoriasis, the IL17F rs763780 (His161Arg) T/C variant. The current study aimed to elucidate the association between this polymorphism and psoriasis, and to determine its effect on serum levels of cytokine. A total of 116 psoriasis patients and 97 healthy volunteers were recruited. Genotyping analysis was performed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and serum levels of cytokine were measured using a multiplex immunoassay. The IL17F His161Arg polymorphism was significantly associated with psoriasis based on the genotype and allele analyses. Psoriasis patients harbouring the mutant allele had significantly increased serum levels of IL-17F. Our results suggest that this polymorphism is a potential risk locus for psoriasis and that it results in a direct increase in IL-17F production.

A typical laser-plasma accelerator (LPA) is driven by a single, ultrarelativistic laser pulse from terawatt- or petawatt-class lasers. Recently, there has been some theoretical work on the use of copropagating two-color laser pulses (CTLP) for LPA research. Here, we demonstrate the first LPA driven by CTLP where we observed substantial electron energy enhancements. Those results have been further confirmed in a practical application, where the electrons are used in a bremsstrahlung-based positron generation configuration, which led to a considerable boost in the positron energy as well. Numerical simulations suggest that the trailing second harmonic relativistic laser pulse is capable of sustaining the acceleration structure for much longer distances after the preceding fundamental pulse is depleted in the plasma. Therefore, our work confirms the merits of driving LPAs by two-color pulses and paves the way toward a downsizing of LPAs, making their potential applications in science and technology extremely attractive and affordable., (Copyright © 2019 The Authors, some rights reserved; exclusive licensee American Association for the Advancement of Science. No claim to original U.S. Government Works. Distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial License 4.0 (CC BY-NC).)

Background: Botulinum toxin (BTX) has been used cosmetically with good clinical efficacy and tolerable safety., Objective: This randomized, double-blind, split-face clinical study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of intradermal BTX in patients with rosacea., Materials and Methods: Twenty-four participants were enrolled and randomly given intradermal injections of BTX and normal saline in both cheeks. Clinician Erythema Assessment (CEA) score, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) score, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), melanin content, erythema index, elasticity, and sebum secretions were evaluated at baseline and 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks., Results: On the BTX-treated side, the CEA score significantly decreased and the GAIS score significantly increased. The erythema index decreased at Weeks 4 and 8. Skin elasticity was improved at Weeks 2 and 4 and skin hydration, at Weeks 2, 4, and 8. However, TEWL and sebum secretion did not show significant differences., Conclusion: Intradermal BTX injections reduced erythema and rejuvenated the skin effectively and safely in patients with rosacea.

Background: Although oral antihistamines (H1-histamine receptor antagonists) are the main treatment option for pruritus in general skin dermatosis, their effect in treating pruritus of atopic dermatitis (AD) has not yet been established., Objective: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of combined therapy of H1-antihistamines and topical steroids., Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases for articles published from 1967 to 2015. We identified 1,206 studies and assessed their titles, abstract, and full-text. Random effects meta-analysis was used to calculate mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI)., Results: Two studies satisfying the inclusion criteria of antihistamine therapy with mandatory topical steroid use were selected. Comparing antihistamine monotherapy with combination therapy, patients treated with the addition of antihistamine to topical corticosteroids showed a statistically significant clinical improvement (standard MD, -0.24; 95% CI, -0.42 to -0.05; p =0.01)., Conclusion: H1-antihistamines may have a synergistic effect when combined with topical steroids by influencing various associative factors of chronic pruritus in AD., Competing Interests: CONFLICTS OF INTEREST: The authors have nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2019 The Korean Dermatological Association and The Korean Society for Investigative Dermatology.)

Background: Superficial fungal infections are one of the most common and burdensome skin problems affecting quality of life in patients. Various conventional antifungal agents have been used to treat fungal infections; however, various problems have been reported including drug interaction, drug resistance and low effectiveness. Efinaconazole is a novel antifungal agent, which has proven to be particularly effective against onychomycosis compared with conventional antifungal agents. However, the antifungal efficacy of Efinaconazole for specific strains has not been analysed., Objective: We conducted an in-vitro study to measure the antifungal activity of Efinaconazole against strains of Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Candida albicans compared with widely-used antifungal drugs., Methods: We obtained strains of T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes and C. albicans isolated from patients with onychomycosis and tinea pedis. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) for various strains of fungal species was evaluated for the antifungal susceptibility test., Results: Efinaconazole showed a low MIC against almost strains of dermatophytes and C albicans and also presented low resistance, indicating high potency of efinaconazole for treatment of superficial fungal infections., Conclusion: Efinaconazole could be a comparable alternative to replace existing conventional agents., (© 2018 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

This study investigated and classified the various types of moderator band (MB) in relation to the anterior papillary muscle, with the aim of providing anatomical reference information and fundamental knowledge for use when repairing the congenital defects and understanding the conduction system. The study investigated 38 formalin-fixed human hearts of both sexes obtained from donors aged 38-90 years. The MB was evident in 36 of the 38 specimens (94.7%). The morphology of the MB and its connection with the APM took various forms. The MBs that had a distinct shape were classified into three types according to their shape: cylindrical column, long and thin column, and wide and flat column. Types 2 and 3 were the most common, appearing in 15 (41.7%) and 14 (38.9%) of the 36 specimens, respectively, while type 1 was observed in seven specimens (19.4%). Type 3 was divided into subtypes based on their length. The MB usually originated from a single root (91.7%), with the remainder exhibiting double roots. The pairs of roots in the latter cases had different shapes. The originating point of the MB ranged from the supraventricular crest to the apex of the ventricle. The most-common originating point was in the middle (25 of 36 specimens, 69.4%), followed by the upper third (13.9%), the lower third (11.1%), and the top fifth (5.6%) of the interventricular septum. This study has produced fundamental anatomical and clinical information that will be useful when designing cardiac surgical procedures.

The present study aimed to determine the arrangement and terminal attachments of the zygomaticus minor (Zmi) muscle fibers connecting the orbital and mouth regions. The Zmi was examined in 32 specimens of embalmed Korean adult cadavers. The Zmi was present in all 32 specimens (100%). In 31 of the specimens (96.9%), the Zmi that inserted into the upper lip was formed by muscle fibers that arose from the zygomatic bone and muscle fibers that extended from the orbicularis oculi (OOc) muscle. In 14 of the specimens (43.8%), some fibers of the Zmi that arose from the zygomatic bone blended with the inferior margin of the OOc, while the other fibers inserted into the upper lip. After the Zmi fibers blended with the inferior margin of the OOc, these fibers constituted the inferior and medial margins of the OOc. These fibers were then attached to the medial palpebral ligament, the maxilla, the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle, and the depressor supercilii muscle. In 30 of 32 specimens (93.8%), muscle fibers that extended from the OOc constituted the lateral margin of the Zmi, usually descending to the level between the nasal ala and the vermilion border of the upper lip and inserting into the upper lip. The obtained data will be helpful for understanding their connected movements and in kinematics and electromyographic analyses, therapies involving injections of botulinum toxin Type A, and various types of facial surgery. Clin. Anat. 31:974-980, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., (© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

The current study examined the incisivus labii superioris muscle (ILS) and its morphologic and spatial relationships with the surrounding structures, especially focusing on the upper mucolabial fold, labial glands, and modiolar area. ILSs were investigated in 52 specimens obtained from formalin-fixed Korean adult cadavers (26 left sides, 26 right sides of the face; 15 men, 11 women; mean age, 70.8 years). ILSs were observed in all specimens (100%). The ILS has an oblique and linear origin from the incisive fossa of the maxilla to the point just medial to the origin of the levator anguli oris muscle (LAO). The arising fibers of the ILS arched and covered the prominent labial glands at the superior margin of the orbicularis oris muscle (OOr). After the ILS coursed laterally along the anterior part of the upper mucolabial fold, it divided into superficial and deep inserting fibers in 48 specimens (92.3%) and it did not divide in 4 specimens (7.7%). The superficial inserting ILS fibers and the ILS fibers that did not divide blended with the medial fibers of the LAO to converge toward the modiolus. The deep inserting fibers of the ILS blended with the lateral deep fibers of the OOr in the 48 specimens (92.3%), and the deep inserting fibers continued to descend to converge toward the modiolus in 20 of those specimens (38.5%). These observations indicate that the ILS may assist to compress the labial glands and the upper oral vestibule, controlling modiolar movements and thereby integrating the movements of the mouth and lips.

The orbicularis oculi muscle, an important mimetic muscle, was investigated to ascertain its anatomical relation to facial aging-especially its orbital part (Oo). Previous studies of the distinct muscle bundles frequently found inferior to the Oo have provided various definitions, including that of the malaris muscle. This study aimed to examine these muscle bundles and clarify their function in facial aging. Twelve heads of Japanese cadavers (average age: 82.5 years old) were dissected to observe the muscles, focusing in particular on those in the periorbital region. Six specimens were further dissected from the inner surfaces to examine the patterns of facial nerve branches under the operating microscope. Histological examinations of two head halves were carried out to investigate the relationship between the muscle bundles and the intraorbital structures. Muscle bundles consisting of lateral, medial, and U-shaped suspending bundles were observed in the region inferior to the Oo. Lateral and suspending bundles were found in all specimens, while the medial bundles were noted in only 9 of 22 specimens. Some branches of the facial nerve penetrated through the lateral, medial, and suspending bundles. The relationship between the suspending bundles and the protruding orbital fat was assessed. The muscle bundles found in this study were regarded as the malaris muscle-a transitional muscle between the superficial and deep facial layers. The suspending bundle may play a role in sustaining the intraorbital structures.

With the recent availability of culture-independent sequencing methods, studies have been conducted to analyse skin micro-organisms present in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). However, the database on the skin fungal communities, "mycobiome," has been relatively restrictive compared with the bacterial world. We aimed to comparatively analyse the overall skin mycobiome between patients with AD and healthy individuals in the Korean population. We analysed skin swab samples obtained from the antecubital fossae of 8 patients with AD and 8 healthy controls. Using sequencing method followed by direct DNA extraction and molecular PCR, taxonomic compositions of fungi at stepwise level ranks were analysed. The phylogenic marker used was internal transcribed spacer 2 regions of DNA. We observed the tendency of higher intra- and interpersonal taxonomic diversity at genus and species levels in AD samples. Non-Malassezia fungal diversity was also noticeable in the patient group compared with healthy controls. Malassezia globosa and Malassezia restricta were prevalent in all samples across both study groups, and some Malassezia species, including Malassezia sloofiae and Malassezia dermatis, characterized AD. Our data might provide a new insight into the mycobiome of adult AD, which contributes to building a systemic mycobiome database in AD., (© 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

We used multilocus sequence typing (MLST) to analyze the diversity of natural isolates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae , the most important microorganism in alcoholic fermentation. Six loci, ADP1, RPN2, GLN4, ACC1, MET4, and NUP116, in S. cerevisiae genome were selected as MLST markers. To investigate genetic diversity within S. cerevisiae , 42 S. cerevisiae isolated from natural sources in Korea as well as six S. cerevisiae obtained from Genbank and four industrial S. cerevisiae were examined using MLST. Twenty-six polymorphic sites were found in the six loci. Among them, ACC1 had the most genetic variation with eight polymorphic sites. MLST differentiated the 52 strains into three clades. Alcohol fermentation results revealed that S. cerevisiae in Clade III produced less alcohol than those in Clades I and II. These results suggested that MLST is a powerful tool to differentiate S. cerevisiae and can potentially be used to select S. cerevisiae suitable for industrial use., Competing Interests: Compliance with ethical standardsThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Background/purpose: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an anionic, non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan distributed throughout the human skin and injectable HA fillers are the most commonly used in aesthetic field. This study aimed to determine if differences in physical characteristics of HA products (monophasic or biphasic fillers) affect the patterns of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)., Methods: Twenty biphasic fillers and nine monophasic fillers were obtained from a commercial source, and examined with a 3.0 Tesla MRI scanner. Visual assessments and measurements of signal intensity for region of interest (ROI) were performed. A non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare the ROI values., Results: Visual assessments by a radiologist did not show significant differences between the two types of fillers. While the signal intensity between the two types of filler did not differ significantly for T1-weighted images, the signal intensity of the biphasic filler was lower than that of the monophasic filler for T2-weighted images (P<.01)., Conclusion: Monophasic and biphasic HA fillers exhibited different MRI properties. Our findings may provide better insights into the use of in vivo MRI to evaluate aesthetic, procedure-related complications., (© 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)