Predictive Methods and Probabilistic Mapping of Subcortical Brain Components in Fossil Carnivora.

Paleoneurology reconstructs the evolutionary history of nervous systems through direct observations from the fossil record and comparative data from extant species. Although this approach can provide direct evidence of phylogenetic links among species, it is constrained by the availability and quality of data that can be gleaned from the fossil record. Here, we sought to translate brain component relationships in a sample of extant Carnivora to make inferences about brain structure in fossil species.

Comparative anatomy of the caudate nucleus in canids and felids: Associations with brain size, curvature, cross-sectional properties, and behavioral ecology.

The evolutionary history of canids and felids is marked by a deep time separation that has uniquely shaped their behavior and phenotype toward refined predatory abilities. The caudate nucleus is a subcortical brain structure associated with both motor control and cognitive, emotional, and executive functions. We used a combination of three-dimensional imaging, allometric scaling, and structural analyses to compare the size and shape characteristics of the caudate nucleus.

A superficial dissection approach to the sphenopalatine (pterygopalatine) ganglion to emphasize osteopathic clinical relevance.

The sphenopalatine (pterygopalatine) ganglion (SPG) is the most superficial ganglia to manipulate from the oral cavity. It has parasympathetic and sensory fibers directly affecting the paranasal sinuses as well as the palatine, nasal, pharyngeal, and lacrimal glands. The SPG can be manipulated intraorally by students and physicians utilizing osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to relieve congestion associated with sinusitis, allergies, headaches, and upper respiratory infections.

Supine counterstrain technique for rhomboid tender point.

Because poor posture is a common instigating factor in back, shoulder, and neck pain, the rhomboid muscles should be considered in a complete physical evaluation. Previous techniques for treating a rhomboid tender point have addressed only one of the two main actions of the muscle, specifically retraction of the scapula utilizing shoulder abduction. This modified supine counterstrain technique for the rhomboid tender point incorporates both scapular retraction as well as superior, medial rotation of the inferior border of the scapula without abduction, providing a comprehensive treatment to accommodate patients with shoulder movement restrictions.

Counterstrain technique for anterior and middle scalene tender point.

When a patient presents with head, neck, or respiratory concerns, the scalene muscles are not commonly considered. However, somatic dysfunctions of the anterior/middle scalenes (AMS) can be contributing to or causing these medical concerns. Although tender points within the scalene muscles have been documented within the muscle belly, they have not been documented at the insertion site.

Anatomy-based approach to the thyroid examination.

In this article, the authors will discuss a modified anatomy-based neck and thyroid examination that allows for a more comprehensive evaluation. It is the opinion of the authors that an organ and its function are best evaluated utilizing the following steps: anatomy-based inspection and palpation, imaging, and blood tests. Approximately half of the lateral part of the thyroid is deep to the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and sternothyroid muscles, which makes it rather difficult to palpate the entire gland utilizing prior physical examination techniques.

The Effect of Huntington's Disease on the Basal Nuclei: A Review.

Huntington's disease is an autosomal dominant trinucleotide repeat disorder that causes the progressive degeneration of the basal nuclei. This degeneration leads to clinical symptoms affecting voluntary movement, cognitive impairment, and psychiatric disorders. The patient affected by this disease demonstrates anticipation, meaning that even though there is normal embryological development, the signs and symptoms appear at an earlier age as the gene is continually passed throughout subsequent generations.