Backscattering Mueller matrix polarimetry estimates microscale anisotropy and orientation in complex brain tissue structure.

Purpose: Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) quantitatively estimates brain microstructure, diffusion tractography being one clinically utilized framework. To advance such dMRI approaches, direct quantitative comparisons between microscale anisotropy and orientation are imperative. Complete backscattering Mueller matrix polarized light imaging (PLI) enables the imaging of thin and thick tissue specimens to acquire numerous optical metrics not possible through conventional transmission PLI methods.

Collaborating for the Successful Retirement and End-of-Life Care of Non-Human Primates in Biomedical Research.

Research facilities have established animal adoption programs for laboratory animals. However, adoption to private owners is not an option for non-human primates (NHPs), so their post-research life presents a unique challenge. Here, we describe a collaborative effort between laboratory animal veterinarians and behavioral management staff in retiring NHPs in place to ensure their quality of life after the completion of research projects.

Taking shape: A geometric morphometric analysis of the immature human palate in relation to dental eruption and growth.

Background: The immature human palate functions in suckling and swallowing but transitions to participate in mastication and sound production as the individual grows and matures. Functional alterations manifest as changes in the morphology of the palate and may result from dental eruption. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of dental eruption on morphological changes of the palate in immature individuals using geometric morphometrics.

Brain Lymphatics: Rediscovery and New Insights into Lymphatic Involvement in Diseases of Human Brains.

The brain's lymphatic system is comprised of a glymphatic-meningeal-cervical lymphatic vessel pathway. The study of its mechanism and pathophysiology in neurodegenerative disease has been one of the most exciting topics in basic and translational neuroscience of the last decade. However, while there has been some debate about when the meningeal lymphatics were discovered, it cannot be denied that studies in preclinical models and humans in this century represent a monumental step forward in our understanding of how the brain removes metabolic waste, the role this system plays in neurodegenerative disease, and, most importantly, its potential as a novel therapeutic target.