Introduction: Superior thyroid artery (STA) is one of the branches of the external carotid artery (ECA) which supplies the upper larynx, neck, and thyroid gland. The anatomic features of this artery and its relation to neighboring bony landmarks are important in surgical approaches. The primary objective is to find the source of origin of STA. Secondary objective is to find the level of origin of STA with reference to the origin of ECA and midpoint of the upper border of the thyroid cartilage. Material and Methods: The present study was carried out on 60 hemi necks obtained from human adult cadavers from Anatomy Department, Bangalore Medical College, Bangalore, Karnataka. The dissection was carried out according to instructions of Cunningham's practical manual. The origin and branching pattern of the STA were noted and measured. Results: The STA arose from the common carotid artery in 5% (3) cases and from the ECA in 95% (57). Among the 95% cases, 46.7% (28) arose at the origin of ECA, and in 1.7% (1) case, STA arose as a common trunk with lingual and facial arteries. The mean distance between the point of origin of STA and the point of origin of ECA is 5.4 ± 5.3 mm. The mean distance between the point of origin of STA and superior border of thyroid cartilage is 40 ± 7.6 mm. Discussion and Conclusion: The origin of STA from carotid bifurcation ranged from 1 to 25 mm. Most studies show equal incidence of origin of STA from ECA and carotid bifurcations.

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Introduction: Assessment drives learning; assessment is the key component in medical education. Written examination plays a major role in assessing cognitive domain and well-constructed essay questions helps to assess the higher order of knowledge. Item analysis supports to assess the quality of items written and in turn which helps the faculty to retain, modify, or vomit the items. Material and Methods: Item analysis was done on anatomy essay questions of two internal assessment of 200 first MBBS students. Difficulty and discrimination indices were calculated, and relationship between the two indices was also analyzed. Analysis of the data indicated that there was a wide spectrum of level of difficulty among the essay items. Results: 83.33% items were within the acceptable range of difficulty index (DIF) and 1.67% items were not within the acceptable range. 91.67% items were good to identify students who have studied and only 8.33% (one question) item to be discarded and replaced. The relationship between the item discrimination index (DI) and DIF was determined using regression analysis and it is statistically significant, as the difficulty level of item increased the DI also increased. Discussion and conclusion: By this kind analysis, we can have a question bank with validated different grades of acceptability. Before deciding on test, this will help to consider whether the item difficulty level appropriate for testing given objective and does the item discriminate adequately and then to decide which items to include, revise, or omit from a test.

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We hereby report several anomalies of the cardinal veins derivatives. First, a continuous hemiazygos trunk was identified replacing the hemiazygos, accessory hemiazygos, and left superior intercostal veins. Second, a reno-hemiazygos-lumbar trunk was found to connect the left ascending lumbar and renal veins. In the same patient, a persisting left superior vena cava was also found. These findings are related to developmental anomalies of both supra-and subcardinal veins. Such combination of different anatomic vascular variants in the same patient recommends an evaluation of the vascular anatomy prior to surgical and interventional procedures.

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Pyknodysostosis is an autosomal recessive osteoclastic dysfunction characterized by generalized hyperostosis and short stature which has mere 10 cases reported from India out of 133 globally reported cases. This rare disorder is due to defective lysosomal cysteine protease cathepsin K in chromosome 21. A male child of 11 years underwent radiological investigation for stunted growth. Examination revealed less height for age, retarded mandibular growth, dysmorphic facial growth, and proportionately short fingers. Radiological findings showed generalized osteosclorosis, hypoplastic paranasal air sinuses, spool-shaped dorsolumbar vertebral bodies, acro-osteolysis of terminal phalanges, and scalloped acetabulum with increased bone density. Management of child should be aimed at correcting anemia and primary prevention of fractures. The postnatal craniofacial development needs to be monitored. Long-term management should aim at genetic mapping and therapy with bone marrow transplantation.

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In general, when a particular term in medicine is used, it should be correct and precise. Human anatomy is an old science and has developed over the years with various and numerous terms and classifications being used. Their role is to present and summarize the described findings, simply and understandably, not only to the anatomist but also to the clinicians. The goal of our comments is to present our point of view about a term, used for a variant hand muscle, called the extensor digitorum profundus; it was first mentioned in the hands of primates but since has been used by some to describe human anatomy. We discuss why such use of the term in humans is incorrect and should be limited to various animals.

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Introduction: Birth defect, congenital malformation, and congenital anomaly are synonymous terms used to describe structural, behavioral, functional, and metabolic disorders present at birth. Birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality. The most common serious congenital disorders are heart defects, neural tube defects, and Down syndrome. The objective of the study is to determine the chromosomal abnormalities (structural and numerical) in congenital anomalies of suspected genetic causes, by peripheral lymphocytic culture and cytogenetic evaluation. Material and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study undertaken for a duration of 2 years in a total of fifty cases of congenital anomalies with suspected genetic abnormalities. Peripheral blood from these cases was collected, and lymphocyte tissue culture was done for about 48–72 h. The best metaphase spread was selected, photographed, printed, and karyotypes were prepared. Findings of the study were then described by descriptive statistics. Results: Most common congenital anomalies were seen in the musculoskeletal system with 19 anomalies (38% of all cases) followed by genital organs with 12 anomalies (24% of all cases) and cleft lip and cleft palate with 8 anomalies (16% of all cases). Chromosomal anomalies were seen in six cases (12% of all cases). All were cases of Down syndrome and had trisomy 21. Discussion and conclusion: The present study might be of help in an earlier and better diagnosis of the cases of congenital anomalies, particularly the cases presenting with chromosomal abnormalities so that their counselling can be started at the earliest. It might be suggested that cytogenetic evaluation of cases of congenital anomalies should be included in routine investigation.

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Introduction: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common metabolic complications of pregnancy that causes fetal mortality and morbidity. As uncontrolled gestational diabetes could induce congenital heart defects in the offspring. Therefore, this study was done to evaluate the effect of GDM on bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) gene expression during heart development in the C57BL mouse embryo. Material and Methods: In this experimental study, twelve 8-week old pregnant C57BL with an approximate weight of 130 g were randomly allocated into control and induced diabetic groups. On day 1 of gestation, the dams of the Diabetic group were received 150 mg/kg streptozotocin. While that of the control group were received an equivalent volume of normal saline. On day 11.5 of pregnancy, six embryos were withdrawn from each group. Total RNA was extracted from the cardiac tissue pieces of the embryos for expression of BMPs by quantitative real-time PCR. Results: BMP6 of the induced diabetic group increased to 2.4018-fold compared to the controls (P<0.05). While BMP 5,7, and 10 increased to (1.58, 1.0445, and 1.7623, respectively) and 1.7623-fold respectively in GDM in comparison to controls. Discussion and Conclusion: Therefore, it is suggested that the GDM could induce heart malformations by the upregulation of BMPs, particularly BMP6 expression.

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Introduction: Educational methods used in Turkey as an immediate response to COVID-19 pandemic definitely bear strengths and weaknesses. In this context, the aim of the present study is to carry out Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat (SWOT) analysis of Turkey's adaptations in the anatomy training. Material and Methods: This descriptive study included 12 state universities. A questionnaire was used to collect information regarding the modifications of the anatomy departments. All responses were analyzed by the researchers using a thematic analysis following a 6-step process. For the purpose of SWOT analysis, these themes were assigned to either strengths, weaknesses, opportunities or threats. Results: According to the results of the study, increasing skills in utilizing new technologies and resources (83.3%), developing new online resources (83.3%) and alternative examination methods (58.3%) and free access to online resources (16.6%) were the strengths of Anatomy training during the crisis. Exam-related issues (83.3%), being obliged to work from home due to curfews, self-isolation, and social-distancing rules (75.0%), insufficiency in practical courses and cadaver practices (75.0%) and time restrictions (58.3%) were considered as weaknesses. The departments consider the teleworking model (83.3%), preparation for including blended learning in future curricula (83.3%) and academic cooperation (33.3%) as important environmental opportunities. There are issues that anatomy departments consider as important environmental threats. These threats include decrease in student-student (83.3%) and teacher-student interaction (66.6%) and suspension of the donor programs (58.3%). Discussion and Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has created several opportunities and challenges. Undoubtedly, Anatomy training will need revisions in the normalization process. Results of SWOT analysis studies are thought to be a guide for the departments during the revision process.

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Introduction: The aim was to obtain the dimensions of the distal fragments of humerus bone, and the objective was to derive the formulae of regression, which will assist us to estimate the humeral length. Material and Methods: In this cadaveric research, 166 adult dried humeri from the department of anatomy were utilized. The measurements were performed by using the osteometric board and digital Vernier caliper. The seven distal humeral fragments were measured. Results: We were able to associate the dimensions of the distal humeral fragments with the humeral length (P = 0.00). The distances between the radial summit of the capitulum to the ulnar part of the medial epicondyle (right side Pearson's coefficient, 0.70 and left side, 0.78) and the radial side of the lateral condyle to the ulnar most side of the medial epicondyle (right side Pearson's coefficient, 0.69 and left side, 0.77) were the finest parameters, which can predict the length of humerus. Discussion and Conclusion: The regression calculations can be of help in estimating the humeral length. Such equations could be utilized during the examinations of forensic cases, where the estimation of height of an individual is required to be predicted, when only a few distal fragments of humerus are available. The figures of this investigation can also help in anthropology and archaeological research.

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Introduction: The stride length of individuals is believed to correlate with their stature. The aim of the present study was to estimate stature using stride length and lower limb length of Efiks who are indigenes of Calabar South, Cross River State, South-South Nigeria. Material and Methods: Stature, lower extremity length, and stride length were measured and recorded for 300 subjects, 150 each of males and females who were recruited randomly from the community. The subjects were between 15 and 45 years. Results: Data obtained showed that the mean values for all measured anthropometric parameters including stature were higher in males than in females (P < 0.05). The correlation coefficient value derived from the linear regression equation for the estimation of stature using stride length and lower limb length revealed that there is a significant relationship between stature and the measured parameters for the studied population. Discussion and Conclusion: The positive correlation between stature and the measured parameters showed that stature can be estimated using the derived linear regression equations specific for the Efik natives of Cross River State. This can be of immense value in the field of crime detection toward stature estimation by forensic experts.

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Introduction: Posterior communicating artery (PComA) is the communicating channel between the internal carotid and vertebrobasilar arterial systems. The hemodynamics of the circle of Willis is influenced by variations in the PComA. Such variations may predispose to ischemic stroke due to inadequate collateral supply. Knowledge regarding the variations of the PComA and posterior circulation is of much clinical importance. Material and Methods: Eighty-eight posterior communicating arteries in 44 human cadaveric brains were studied. The morphological variations and morphometry of PComA and the various types of posterior circulation were noted and analyzed. Results: Morphological variations in PComA consisted of hypoplasia (17.04%) and aplasia (7.95%). The mean length of PComA was 12.72 ± 3.10 mm on the right side and 13.11 ± 3.37 mm on the left side. The four types of posterior circulation were adult type (78.41%), persistent fetal type-partial (12.5%), transitional type (5.68%), and persistent fetal type full (3.41%). Discussion and Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive description of variations of PComA and types of posterior circulation. Awareness of these anatomical variations will be useful to anatomists, neurophysicians, neurosurgeons, and radiologists.

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Introduction: The arches of the foot help in transmission of the body weight and permit adjustments on uneven surfaces. Prolonged use of high heels causes elevation or collapse of these arches by stress and strain over the weight-bearing bones, and also causes damage to the underlying soft tissues and ligaments. The aim of this study was to document the presence of any changes in medial longitudinal arches in young women using high heels through radiographic method taking into account body mass index, height of heels, and the type of shoes worn and to document lower back pain and foot pain. Material and Methods: An observational study between 40 high-heel wearers and 40 flat wearers was done. Lateral radiographs of both feet were taken in weight-bearing position with medial border of the foot touching the cassette. Lateral talocalcaneal angle, lateral talar-first metatarsal angle, angle of longitudinal arch, and calcaneal pitch were measured by a protractor and goniometer. A questionnaire documented complaints of back pain and foot pain. Results: Independent sample t-test showed a statistically significant difference in left lateral talar-first metatarsal angle between two groups. Pearson's correlation showed a negative correlation between left lateral talocalcaneal angle and low back pain, and a positive correlation between right lateral talar-first metatarsal angle and low back pain. Discussion and Conclusion: Frequent and prolonged use of high-heeled footwear can result in damage to the foot architecture leading to foot and back pain. Thus, keeping the high heels reserved for occasional use is the best choice.

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Introduction: The right and left kidneys receive their blood supply from the lateral branches of the abdominal aorta that is, respectively, from the right and the left renal arteries. The study of renal arteries is thus very important, but the literature shows a scarcity of data for the Indian population. This study was, therefore, planned to compare the morphometry of human renal arteries in cadavers and in computed tomography scans. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on 36 formalin-fixed cadavers and on 36 computed tomographic scans of renal arteries. The various parameters measured included the length of renal arteries, internal diameter of renal arteries at its origin, the vertical distance between the renal arteries at its origin and the point of bifurcation of the aorta, and vertical distance between the origins of the right and left renal arteries. Results: The length of the right renal artery was more than the left renal artery, there was no difference in the internal diameter of both the vessels at their origin and no difference in the vertical distance between the site of origin of renal arteries and bifurcation of Aorta. Discussion and Conclusion: The information of the right renal artery being longer than the left kidney confirms with the data available in the literature. The vertical distance between the origins of the renal artery and bifurcation of the aorta is important as it aids the radiologists for performing angiography. Furthermore, the data from this study would aid and supplement the preexisting data for the surgeons during renal transplantations.

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