Research Articles (Anatomy)

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Exploring mutual and exclusive biological information in cranial metric and morphological variables
(University of Florida Press, 2024-07) Stull, Kyra Elizabeth; New, Briana T.; Corron, Louise K.; Auchter, Leah E.; Spradley, Kate; Wolfe, Christopher A.; Chu, Elaine Y.; Hefner, Joseph T.
Evidence suggests that both craniometric and cranial morphoscopic (MMS) traits elucidate information about cranial phenotypic variation and are appropriate proxies of genetic variation. Yet, the types of variation underlying the expression of craniometric and MMS traits are unknown. Recent data sets of matched skeletal metric and MMS data enable a holistic exploration into the cranial phenotype. Subsequently, the current study strived to provide a better understanding of cranial data used to measure human variation in biological anthropology. Two contemporary U.S. samples were pooled to increase sample size and diversity. Following down-sampling for balanced representation of reported biological males and females, the final sample comprised 310 individuals. Twenty-five interlandmark distances and 11 MMS traits were used in numerous analyses: polychoric correlation, mutual information, mixed factor analysis, and factor analysis of mixed data. No demographic information besides reported biological sex was retained in the analyses. The results consistently indicate that having information about one data type does not provide certainty of another data type, even when the variables are analogous (i.e., nasal breadth and nasal aperture width). Findings reassert that skeletal variables should be analyzed jointly rather than independently to best capture the cranial phenotype. The results also highlight the differential influence of biological variables, such as sexual dimorphism, on the two types of cranial data. As data availability increases and additional matched data-type comparisons can be conducted, we will continue to gain a better understanding of the complexities surrounding skeletal phenotypic variation, evolutionary theory, and population affinity.
A radiologic-pathologic study of the histopathologic variants of ameloblastomas and their proliferation indices
(Elsevier, 2024-09) Smit, Chane; Robinson, Liam; Van Heerden, M.B. (Marlene); Meyer, Pieter Willem Adriaan; Ogunsakin, Ropo Ebenezer; Fonseca, Felipe Paiva; Uys, Andre; Van Heerden, Willem Francois Petrus; chane.smit@up.ac.za
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyze the clinicoradiologic features and Ki-67 proliferation indices between the histopathologic variants of ameloblastomas (ABs) for possible associations. STUDY DESIGN: The diagnosis and histopathologic variant were confirmed for all cases by experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologists. Immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 was performed on the most representative formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue block. Demographic, clinical data and radiologic features were analyzed from patient records and available radiographic examinations. The investigators were blinded to the histopathologic variant and proliferation index when the clinicoradiologic features were assessed. RESULTS: The current study included 116 cases of AB in the final sample. The indolent behavior of the unicystic variant was supported by their low proliferation index and slow growth paired with low frequencies of cortical destruction, loss of teeth, root resorption, and encroachment on anatomical structures. In contrast, the comparatively high proliferation index of the plexiform variant correlated with their fast growth and pain. Furthermore, high radiologic frequencies of cortical destruction, loss of teeth, and encroachment of surrounding anatomical structures supported their more aggressive clinical course. CONCLUSION: Statistically significant differences were noted between certain variants and Ki-67, location, borders, locularity, and cortical destruction, providing better insight into their biological behavior.
A morphometric study of posterior tibial slope differences by sex and ethnicity in a South African population
(Springer, 2025-01) Hohmann, Erik; Nel, Adri; Van Zyl, Reinette; Natalie, Natalie; Mogale, Nkhensani
PURPOSE : Posterior tibial slope (PTS) influences knee kinetics and kinematics. The purpose of this study was to investigate morphology and variation within a sample of the black and white male and female population. METHOD : 480 randomly selected lateral knee radiographs were included. The anterior tibial cortex angle (ATC), proximal anatomical tibial axis angle (PTAA) and the posterior tibial cortex angle (PTC) were measured using ImageJ 1.53e software. Between group differences (black male and females, white males and females) were analysed using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS : Significant differences between the three different angles (p = 0.0001, F = 50.68) but no between group differences for the individual angle measurements (ATC, PTAA, PTC) between ethnicity and sex. For ATC, the angles between groups ranged from 14.20 + 2.81 degrees (Females Black), 14.62 + 3.6 degrees (Male Black), 15.18 + 3.68 degrees (Male White) to 15.54 + 3.21 degrees (Females White). For PTAA, the angles between groups ranged from 10.37 + 2.59 degrees (Females Black), 10.61 + 3.27 degrees (Male Black), 10.68 + 3.27 degrees (Male White) to 10.83 + 3.27 degrees (Females White). For PTC, the angles between groups ranged from 6.07 + 3.13 degrees (Females White), 6.13 + 3.7 degrees (Male White), 6.35 + 2.67 degrees (Females Black) to 6.62 + 3.16 degrees (Male Black). CONCLUSION : This study could not establish differences in posterior tibial slope angles between males and females and ethnicity. Significant differences between ATC, PTAA and PTC angles were observed and PTC angles were smaller when compared to PTAA and ATC angles. The ATC angles ranged between 13.18 and 16.57 degrees, the PTAA angles ranged 9.38–11.87 degrees and the PTC angles ranged between 5.03 and 7.62 degrees for all groups.
Radiologic specific growth rate of ameloblastomas : a clinicopathological correlation
(Wiley, 2025-01) Smit, Chane; Robinson, Liam; Van Heerden, Marlene B.; Meyer, Pieter Willem Adriaan; Fonseca, Felipe P.; Van Heerden, Willem Francois Petrus; Uys, Andre; chane.smit@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : The study aimed to assess the radiologic-specific growth rate of ameloblastomas, evaluating potential associations with demographics, radiologic features, histopathologic variants and proliferation indices. The results of this study will hopefully establish if any clinical or histopathologic features can elude fast-growing ameloblastomas. METHODS : Patients presenting with multiple radiographs before surgical intervention due to various healthcare constraints or patient factors were included in the study. The measurements from each radiograph included the lesion's length, height, width and amount of expansion in these dimensions. Furthermore, the circumference of the lesion was measured in sagittal, coronal and axial planes. The radiologic-specific growth rate was assessed by calculating the difference in measurements from the initial to follow-up radiographs divided by the duration between the visits to calculate the growth rate per year. RESULTS : The specific growth rate was analysed between age groups, histopathologic variants and Ki-67 values, with no statistically significant correlations found in all dimensions measured. A statistically significant faster growth (p = 0.04) was seen in females when measuring the mesial-distal length. When comparing radiologic features, ameloblastomas with loss of border demarcation, severe cortical destruction and tooth displacement demonstrated statistically significant faster growth. CONCLUSION : This study found significant correlations with the growth rate of ameloblastomas, specifically in coronal dimensions, supporting the notion of buccal-lingual growth/expansion for which ameloblastomas are known.
Carboxy-amidated AamAP1-lys has superior conformational flexibility and accelerated killing of gram-negative bacteria
(American Chemical Society, 2025-02) Van Wyk, Rosalind Jeanette; Serem, June Cheptoo; Oosthuizen, Carel B.; Semenya, Dorothy; Serian, Miruna; Lorenz, Christian D.; Mason, A. James; Bester, Megan Jean; Gaspar, Anabella Regina Marques; annabella.gaspar@up.ac.za
Please read abstract in the article.
Extruded wholegrain sorghum porridges fortified with baobab fruit and moringa leaves display bioactive phenolics-related health-promoting properties
(Elsevier, 2024-07-20) Lubaale, John; Serem, June Cheptoo; Bester, Megan Jean; Emmambux, Mohammad Naushad; Duodu, Kwaku Gyebi; gyebi.duodu@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES : Food-to-food fortification (FtFF) is gaining traction as a strategy to enhance nutritional value of cereal-based foods. Sorghum, a major food crop for millions in the semi-arid tropics lends itself to such FtFF efforts. Such food-to-food fortified (FtF fortified) foods also contain bioactive phenolics with healthpromoting properties in relation to potential protection against diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs) whose prevalence is increasing in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, the effects of extrusion cooking of sorghum-based porridges FtF fortified with baobab fruit powder and moringa leaf powder on antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic and anti-lipogenic properties were determined. FINDINGS : FtFF porridges showed higher phenolic content (phenolic acids and their esters, flavonoids and their glycosides) and greater radical scavenging properties and reduction in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) compared to unfortified porridges. Extruded instant porridges had lower phenolic content, radical scavenging properties and showed less reduction in AGEs compared to conventionally wet-cooked porridges. All porridges exerted antioxidant effects in Caco-2 cells and FtFF inhibited nitric oxide (NO) formation in RAW 264.7 cells. Extracts from all porridge samples exhibited prevention and reduction of adipocyte formation in 3 T3-L1 cells, indicating anti-lipogenic effects. CONCLUSION : FtFF (with moringa and baobab) and extrusion cooking can be used to produce instant porridges from wholegrain sorghums with targeted health-promoting properties to address rising non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. SIGNIFICANCE AND NOVELTY : This study highlights the potential of FtFF with tropical plant foodstuffs to improve health-promoting properties of cereal wholegrain-based starchy staple foods.
A study of the incidence of the corona mortis within a South African patient sample using computerized tomographic angiography
(Elsevier, 2024-12) Naicker, Jade; Tshabalala, Zithulele Nkosinathi; Janse van Rensburg, Jacques; Masenge, Andries; Modisane, Obakeng; Matshidza, Steven; Mogale, Nkhensani; Naicker.Jade@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION: Retropubic hematomas are a common development in cases of pelvic ring trauma and post-operative repair of fractures to the anterior column of the pelvis. Early detection and diagnosis of such events using computed tomography angiography (CTA) are critical for successful intervention and patient recovery, especially when bleeding is a result of injury to the corona mortis (CM). The CM is the communication between the obturator vessels and the external iliac vessels typically via an accessory obturator vessel. This communication of vessels is identified as a major hindrance in anterior approaches to the pelvis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study investigated the incidence of CM and mapped out safe zones for the anastomosis in a South African sample using 73 adult angiograms from the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Universitas Academic Hospital. After careful observation of the iliac system, the incidence of CM was documented. The distance from the CM to clinically relevant bony landmarks were recorded to formulate safe zones. RESULTS: The incidence of CM was observed in 33.1 % of the sample, with 20 % being venous and 13.1 % being arterial anastomoses. Statistically significant differences between the sexes were noted for safe zones between all landmarks except for the pubic tubercle (p ≥ 0.26). The safe zone between the CM and the pubic tubercle were documented as 46.88 mm and the average diameter for all anastomotic vessels was noted as 2.83 mm (Range: 1.75 - 4.61 mm). CONCLUSION: The inconsistencies presented in angiogram studies compared to cadaver studies suggest that angiograms should be limited to a diagnostic and therapeutic role of identifying the CM or injury thereof in the retropubic region. However, measurements concerning safe zones should rather be extracted from cadaveric studies.
The knee anterolateral ligament is present in 82% of North Americans and 65% of Europeans but only in 46% of Asian studies : a systematic review of frequency and anatomy
(Elsevier, 2025) Hohmann, Erik; Keough, Natalie; Molepo, Maketo; Arciero, Robert; Imhoff, Andreas
PURPOSE : To perform an updated systematic review on the prevalence and morphological characteristics of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) in human cadaveric specimens. METHODS : Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched for studies from 2012 to 2024 describing the morphology. Study quality was assessed using CASP checklist and QUACS scale. Heterogeneity was analysed with the I 2 statistic, funnel plot, and Q-test. Mean effect size and 95% prediction intervals were calculated. Prevalence and anatomical measurements (length, width, thickness) were analysed using mean and standard deviations. RESULTS : Thirty studies were included. CASP identified three low-quality studies. Twelve studies met the QUACS quality threshold. The prevalence of the ALL was 61.7% (82% North America, 64.9% Europe, 45.8% Asia). The femoral insertion showed variability near the lateral femoral epicondyle and lateral collateral ligament, while the tibial insertion was midway between Gerdy's tubercle and fibular head. Histological analysis revealed 60% of studies identified ligamentous tissue similar to the ACL. The mean ALL length was 39.7 mm, width 5.5 mm, and thickness 1.5 mm, with no significant morphological differences among populations. CONCLUSION : This systematic review reveals that the ALL is present in 61.7%, with prevalence rates of 82% in North American studies, 65% in European studies, and 46% in Asian studies. The femoral insertion exhibited substantial variability at/around the lateral femoral epicondyle and LCL, lacking consistency. The tibial insertion was more consistently described as being located about halfway between Gerdy’s tubercle and the fibular head. Histological analysis showed that 60% of the included studies identified the ALL as containing ligament-like or ligamentous tissue. The mean length of the ALL was 39.9 mm (range 31-59 mm), the mean width was 5.7 mm (range 2.2-9.0 mm), and the mean thickness was 1.5 mm (range 1.3-2.7 mm). No significant ethnic population differences were observed in the morphological measures.
Micro-fragmented adipose tissue has no advantage over platelet-rich plasma and Bone Marrow aspirate injections for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis : a systematic review and meta-analysis
(Sage, 2025) Hohmann, Erik; Keough, Natalie; Frank, Rachel M.; Rodeo, Scott A.
BACKGROUND : Micro-fragmented adipose tissue has been proposed for intra-articular treatment of knee osteoarthritis. There are little data comparing the outcomes of treatment between micro-fragmented adipose tissue and other biological treatments. PURPOSE : To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing micro-fragmented aspirated fat injections to other ortho-biologics, hyaluronic acid, and corticosteroid injections for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. STUDY DESIGN : Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 2. METHODS : A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify pertinent publications in the MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, including all level 1 to 3 studies from 2000 to 2023. Validated knee scores (visual analog scale [VAS] for pain, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS], Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee) were included as outcome measures. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane tools. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system was used to assess the quality of the body of evidence and the modified Coleman Methodology Score was used to assess study quality. Heterogeneity was assessed using χ2 and I2 statistics. RESULTS : Five studies were included in the analysis. One study had a high risk of bias; 4 studies had some risk of bias. The overall study quality was fair, and the certainty of evidence was low. The pooled estimate for VAS scores did not demonstrate significant differences at 3, 6, and 12 months. The pooled estimate for the KOOS Pain, Symptoms, Activities of Daily Living, Sport and Recreation, and Quality of Life subscales did not demonstrate significant differences at 3, 6, and 12 months. CONCLUSION : The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that there were no statistically significant differences for both the clinical outcomes and pain scores between micro-fragmented adipose tissue and other ortho-biologics for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. However, modest study quality, some risk of bias, and low certainty of evidence reduce external validity, and these results must be viewed with some caution.
The anatomical location of the great saphenous vein at the thigh and ankle : a neonatal cadaver study
(Spanish Association of Anatomy, 2024-03) Van Tonder, Daniel Johannes; Kathrada, Ahmad; Lokhandwala, Adnan; Van Niekerk, Martin Louis; Van Schoor, Albert-Neels
No abstract available.
Anatomical analysis of proximal tibia : selecting ideal sites for pediatric intraosseous infusion
(Spanish Association of Anatomy, 2024-07) Van Tonder, Daniel Johannes; Al Safadi, Layla; Samaha, Paula; Suleman, Farhana Ebrahim; Van Niekerk, Martin Louis; Van Schoor, Albert; Van Schoor, Albert-Neels
Intraosseous access is a safe and efficient method to administer medications to patients that require advanced life support when intravenous access is not easily available. This study aims to narrow down the ideal insertion site for intraosseous access within the proximal tibia in a pediatric population. The study utilized computed tomography scans that were retrospectively collected from scans of five infant patients between four weeks and two-years old, seven young children between two-years and six-years old, and ten children between six-years and twelve-years of age. Analysis of the computed tomography scans started at 10mm and extended to 50mm distally to the tibial tuberosity at 10mm increments. The smallest cortical thickness to medullary space ratio and most desirable cortical thickness to anteromedial border ratio across all three groups – infants, young children, and child – was identified as 10mm inferior to the tibial tuberosity. Meanwhile, the largest medullary space to anteromedial border ratio was at 10mm inferior to the tibial tuberosity for the infants and young child groups, and at 30mm for the child group. This study showed that, overall, the ideal needle insertion site to gain vascular access for an intraosseous infusion procedure in the proximal tibial in infants, young child, and children is 10mm distal to the tibial tuberosity.
Analyzing 3D facial morphology : insights from a comparative European and South African study on population affinity, sex, age, and allometry
(Elsevier, 2024-12) Mbonani, Thandolwethu Mbali; L’Abbe, Ericka Noelle; Ridel, Alison F.; ericka.labbe@up.ac.za
Please read abstract in article.
QSAR reveals decreased lipophilicity of polar residues determines the selectivity of antimicrobial peptide activity
(American Chemical Society, 2024-06) Van der Walt, Mandelie; Moller, Dalton Sharl; Van Wyk, Rosalind Jeanette; Ferguson, Philip M.; Hind, Charlotte K.; Clifford, Melanie; Do Carmo Silva, Phoebe; Sutton, Mark J.; Mason, A. James; Bester, Megan Jean; Gaspar, Anabella Regina Marques; anabella.gaspar@up.ac.za
Antimicrobial resistance has increased rapidly, causing daunting morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics due to their broad range of targets and low tendency to elicit resistance. However, potent antimicrobial activity is often accompanied by excessive cytotoxicity toward host cells, leading to a halt in AMP therapeutic development. Here, we present multivariate analyses that correlate 28 peptide properties to the activity and toxicity of 46 diverse African-derived AMPs and identify the negative lipophilicity of polar residues as an essential physiochemical property for selective antimicrobial activity. Twenty-seven active AMPs are identified, of which the majority are of scorpion or frog origin. Of these, thirteen are novel with no previously reported activities. Principal component analysis and quantitative structure−activity relationships (QSAR) reveal that overall hydrophobicity, lipophilicity, and residue side chain surface area affect the antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity of an AMP. This has been well documented previously, but the present QSAR analysis additionally reveals that a decrease in the lipophilicity, contributed by those amino acids classified as polar, confers selectivity for a peptide to pathogen over mammalian cells. Furthermore, an increase in overall peptide charge aids selectivity toward Gram-negative bacteria and fungi, while selectivity toward Gram-positive bacteria is obtained through an increased number of small lipophilic residues. Finally, a conservative increase in peptide size in terms of sequence length and molecular weight also contributes to improved activity without affecting toxicity. Our findings suggest a novel approach for the rational design or modification of existing AMPs to increase pathogen selectivity and enhance therapeutic potential.
Anterior and coracoid base tunnel location combined with single -or double clavicular tunnel techniques using double-button fixation for coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction both restore horizontal stability. A biomechanical cadaver study
(Elsevier, 2024-12) Molepo, Maketo; Keough, Natalie; Oberholster, Abraham Johannes (Abrie); Hohmann, Erik
BACKGROUND : The placement of clavicle tunnels in coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction is well established, but the optimal position of the coracoid tunnel remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate how the coracoid tunnel's position affects horizontal stability during coracoclavicular ligament reconstruction using a double-button technique. METHODS : Fifteen fresh frozen shoulder cadaver specimens were tested under various conditions: intact coracoclavicular ligaments, disrupted ligaments, and reconstructions with a single coracoid and clavicle tunnel or double clavicle tunnels. The coracoid tunnel was positioned at the coracoid base 1/9, and 1/5 anterior to the base. Specimens underwent displacement-controlled loading, with 2D motion analysis conducted on captured digital images using TEMA motion analysis. FINDINGS : Mean displacement for intact coracoclavicular ligaments was 1.61 ± 0.92 mm, and 3.69 ± 1.09 mm for disrupted ligaments. For reconstructed conditions, displacements were as follows: Single-Tunnel Base (1.87 ± 0.64 mm), Single-Tunnel 1/9 (2.54 ± 1.13 mm), Single-Tunnel 1/5 (2.62 ± 1.17 mm), Double-Tunnel Base (1.25 ± 0.73 mm), Double-Tunnel 1/9 (2.03 ± 1.22 mm), and Double-Tunnel 1/5 (1.88 ± 1.20 mm). Differences among intact, reconstructed, and disrupted states were statistically significant (p = 0.01–0.0001), with all reconstruction techniques restoring horizontal displacement near the intact state. INTERPRETATION : At point zero both single coracoid tunnel and single- and double-clavicle tunnel restored horizontal displacement to its intact state. Coracoid tunnel placement anterior to the base of the coracoid did not influence horizontal displacement but single coracoid at the coracoid base and single clavicle tunnel resulted in the most anatomic reconstruction. Single coracoid tunnel at the base and double-clavicle resulted in the most stable reconstruction.
Shape analysis of the nasal complex among South African groups from CBCT scans
(Academy of Science of South Africa, 2024-05-28) Ridel, Alison F.; Demeter, Fabrice; L'Abbe, Ericka Noelle; Vandermeulen, Dirk; Oettle, Anna Catherina; alison.ridel@up.ac.za
Three-dimensional (3D) anatomical extraction techniques could help the forensic anthropologist in a precise and inclusive assessment of biological phenotypes for the development of facial reconstruction methods. In this research, the nose morphology and the underlying hard tissue of two South African populations were studied. To this end, a 3D computer-assisted approach based on an automated landmarking workflow was used to generate relevant 3D anatomical components, and shape discrepancies were investigated using a data set of 200 cone-beam computer tomography (CBCT) scans. The anatomical landmarks were placed on the external nose and the mid-facial skeleton (the nasal bones, the anterior nasal aperture, the zygoma, and the maxilla). Shape differences related to population affinity, sex, age, and size were statistically evaluated and visualised using geometric morphometric methods. Population affinity, sexual dimorphism, age, and size affect the nasal complex morphology. Shape variation in the mid-facial region was significantly influenced by population affinity, emphasising that shape variability was specific to the two population groups, along with the expression of sexual dimorphism and the effect of ageing. In addition, nasal complex shape and correlations vary greatly between white and black South Africans, highlighting a need for reliable population-specific 3D statistical nose prediction algorithms. SIGNIFICANCE : • 3D anatomical structures were acquired and extracted from 200 CBCT scans of modern South Africans. • Geometric morphometric methods were applied. • Soft- and hard-tissue nasal complex morphology vary across South African groups.
The evaluation of safe zones for the corona mortis using a cadaver simulation of the Modified Stoppa approach
(Elsevier, 2025-03) Naicker, Jade; Tshabalala, Zithulele Nkosinathi; Masenge, Andries; Modisane, Obakeng; Matshidza, Steven; Mogale, Nkhensani; naicker.jade@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : The Modified Stoppa approach is a minimally invasive method of accessing the pelvis when treating pelvic ring and acetabular fractures. Although this approach is reported to be effective in exposing pelvic fractures, there are iatrogenic risks associated with the procedure. These risks arise from the inadvertent severing of vessels along the pelvic brim, resulting in bleeding, prolonged recovery, or even death. The specific vessels of concern include the corona mortis (CM) anastomosis and aberrant vasculature, which course over the superior pubic ramus. METHODS : The current study aimed to create and validate clinically significant safe zones to avoid injury to these anomalous vessels during the Modified Stoppa approach. Measurements were taken between the CM and crossing vessels (CV), as well as various bony landmarks encountered during the anterior approach, using 63 cadavers. Measurements were statistically analyzed for any significant differences between sides and sex using t-tests, and safe zones were formulated. The safe zones were then assessed for precision using a stepwise cadaver simulation of the Modified Stoppa approach. RESULTS : Safe zones from the pubic tubercle were calculated as 57.96 mm (SD ± 21.40) for the CM, while safe zones for the CV were reported as 48.07 mm (SD ± 25.52). These safe zones proved to be accurate when implemented during the cadaver simulation of the Modified Stoppa approach, as all cases of CM and aberrant vessels were positioned outside the prescribed zones. CONCLUSION ; The results reiterate the clinical significance of the CM and its impact on orthopedic surgery and patient care.
In vitro effects of L-kynurenine and quinolinic acid on adhesion, migration and apoptosis in B16 F10 melanoma cells
(Elsevier, 2024-12) Basson, Charlise; Serem, June Cheptoo; Bipath, Priyesh; Hlophe, Y.; yvette.hlophe@up.ac.za
INTRODUCTION : The inhibition of melanoma adhesion through adhesion molecules, such as integrins and E-cadherin, may represent a promising strategy for managing melanoma metastasis. Compounds, namely l-kynurenine (L-kyn) and quinolinic acid (Quin), previously displayed anti-cancer effects at half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) against B16 F10 melanoma cells in vitro. However, the role of these compounds in B16 F10 melanoma cell adhesion, migration and apoptosis remain unknown. METHODS : Post-exposure to the compounds, flow cytometry was used to analyse the expression of very late antigen-5 (VLA-5), E-cadherin and cleaved caspase-3 in B16 F10 melanoma and RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells. An adhesion assay was used to quantify the adhesion of both cell lines to vitronectin. A scratch migration assay was used to measure the possible inhibition of cell migration in B16 F10 cells in response to L-kyn and Quin. RESULTS : In both B16 F10 and RAW 264.7 cells, neither L-kyn nor Quin induced significant effects on VLA-5 expression or cell adhesion to vitronectin. In B16 F10 cells, both L-kyn and Quin elevated E-cadherin expression and displayed a trend of suppressed migration. However, only L-kyn elevated E-cadherin in RAW 264.7 cells. L-kyn induced apoptosis by elevating cleaved caspase-3 expression in both cell lines. CONCLUSION : L-kyn and Quin demonstrated promising antimetastatic effects in their ability to elevate E-cadherin expression and induce apoptosis in B16 F10 melanoma cells. However, these effects did not occur in response to vitronectin or VLA-5 integrin alterations. Furthermore, it cannot be excluded that L-kyn also induced apoptosis in RAW 264.7 cells. As such, these effects should be confirmed in additional control cell lines and substantiated with in vivo models.
The taphonomic effects of long-term burial in the South African Highveld
(Springer, 2024-09) Landsman, Claudia; Myburgh, Jolandie; Meyer, Anja
Taphonomy studies the environmental effects on remains from the time of deposition to the time of recovery and has been integrated into the field of forensic anthropology. The changes to skeletal remains are dependent on the method of disposal and the surrounding environment. This study focused on buried remains where the type and chemical composition of the soil and the microorganisms present need to be considered. The aim was to investigate the type, frequency, and correlations of the taphonomic alterations of buried domestic pigs. Six taphonomic alterations were observed which included depositional staining, adipocere formation, bone weathering, acidic soil corrosion, and plant, and animal activity. Depositional staining, weathering and plant activity were the most common alterations followed by adipocere which was present on 92.3% of the remains. The bones were mostly stained dark brown and brown; however, the trunk region was the only region to present with black staining. The right sides were darker than the left due to the body positioning as most pigs were placed on their right sides and thus were in direct contact with the cadaver decomposition island. Additionally, the right sides presented with more adipocere as well as increased plant activity suggesting that the soil retained water. Darker stains were correlated with a more complete skeleton as adipocere provides some protection. The study confirms that there are various complicated relationships between different taphonomic alterations. A good understanding of them is needed in forensic anthropology to assist in reconstructing the events that occur after death.
Exploring cranial macromorphoscopic variation and classification accuracy in a South African sample
(Springer, 2024-09) Liebenberg, Leandi; L'Abbe, Ericka Noelle; Stull, Kyra Elizabeth; leandi.liebenberg@up.ac.za
To date South African forensic anthropologists are only able to successfully apply a metric approach to estimate population affinity when constructing a biological profile from skeletal remains. While a non-metric, or macromorphoscopic approach exists, limited research has been conducted to explore its use in a South African population. This study aimed to explore 17 cranial macromorphoscopic traits to develop improved methodology for the estimation of population affinity among black, white and coloured South Africans and for the method to be compliant with standards of best practice. The trait frequency distributions revealed substantial group variation and overlap, and not a single trait can be considered characteristic of any one population group. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s tests demonstrated significant population differences for 13 of the 17 traits. Random forest modelling was used to develop classification models to assess the reliability and accuracy of the traits in identifying population affinity. Overall, the model including all traits obtained a classification accuracy of 79% when assessing population affinity, which is comparable to current craniometric methods. The variable importance indicates that all the traits contributed some information to the model, with the inferior nasal margin, nasal bone contour, and nasal aperture shape ranked the most useful for classification. Thus, this study validates the use of macromorphoscopic traits in a South African sample, and the population-specific data from this study can potentially be incorporated into forensic casework and skeletal analyses in South Africa to improve population affinity estimates.
A morphoscopic exploration of cranial sexual dimorphism among modern South Africans using computed tomography scans
(Springer, 2024-11) Krüger, Gabriele Christa; Jantz, Richard L.; Van der Walt, Elizabeth; Lockhat, Zarina I.; L'Abbe, Ericka Noelle; gabi.kruger@up.ac.za
Continual re-evaluation of standards for forensic anthropological analyses are necessary, particularly as new methods are explored or as populations change. Indian South Africans are not a new addition to the South African population; however, a paucity of skeletal material is available for analysis from medical school collections, which has resulted in a lack of information on the sexual dimorphism in the crania. For comparable data, computed tomography scans of modern Black, Coloured and White South Africans were included in addition to Indian South Africans. Four cranial morphoscopic traits, were assessed on 408 modern South Africans (equal sex and population distribution). Frequencies, Chi-squared tests, binary logistic regression and random forest modelling were used to assess the data. Males were more robust than females for all populations, while White South African males were the most robust, and Black South African females were the most gracile. Population differences were noted among most groups for at least two variables, necessitating the creation of populations-specific binary logistic regression equations. Only White and Coloured South Africans were not significantly different. Indian South Africans obtained the highest correct classifications for binary logistic regression (94.1%) and random forest modelling (95.7%) and Coloured South Africans had the lowest correct classifications (88.8% and 88.0%, respectively). This study provides a description of the patterns of sexual dimorphism in four cranial morphoscopic traits in the current South African population, as well as binary logistic regression functions for sex estimation of Black, Coloured, Indian and White South Africans.

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