Quantitative comparison of cranial approaches in the anatomy laboratory: A neuronavigation based research method

AIMTo describe the development and validation of a novel neuronavigation-based method, which allows the quan-tification of the anatomical features that define anapproach, as well as real-time visualization of the surgicapyramid. METHODSThe method was initially developed with commercially-available hardware for coordinate collection （a digitizerand a frameless navigation system） and software forvolume rendering; dedicated neuronavigation software （ApproachViewer, part of GTx-UHN） was then developed. The accuracy of measurements and the possibility of volumetric rendering of surgical approaches simulated in a phantom were compared among three different methods and commercially-available radiological software. In the anatomy laboratory, ApproachViewer was applied to the comparative quantitative analysis of multiple neurosurgical approaches and was used by many surgeons who were untrained for the research method.RESULTSThe accuracy of ApproachViewer is comparable to com-mercially-available radiological software. In the anatomy laboratory, the method appears versatile. The system can be easily used after brief training. ApproachViewer allows for real-time evaluation and comparison of surgical approaches, as well as post-dissection analyses of collected data. The accuracy of the method depends on the navigation registration： with a 1-2 mm registration error, it is adequate for evaluation and comparison of most neurosurgical approaches.CONCLUSIONThis new research method and software allows semi-automated visualization, quantifcation, and comparison of neurosurgical approaches in the anatomy laboratory.

Innovations in measuring and mitigating phytohemagglutinins,a key food safety concern in beans

Phytohemagglutinin(PHA)is a seed storage protein and a type of lectin originally discovered in the common bean(Phaseolus vulgaris)for its blood-agglutinating effect.Due to its interactions with gut epithelia and digestive enzymes and its potential to trigger allergic reactions,PHA can lead to various symptoms in the human body.As a result,it has been regarded as a signifcant antinutritional factor in beans and other legumes.While several published works have summarized its structural,biochemical,and toxicological features,there is a scarcity of literature that reviews the detection,quantifcation,and reduction of PHA in beans,which is fundamental for the development of safer bean varieties.In this review,we present a comprehensive analysis of traditional and innovative bio-sensing methods for measuring PHA,including the recently available ultrapure liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and emerging aptamer sensor-based techniques,while discussing their respective advantages and disadvantages.We also revisit existing studies dedicated to creating PHA-depleted common bean varieties and explore the potential for reducing PHA content in beans without compromising their resistance to biotic stress.Additionally,we offer insights into the potential for controlling PHA content using the latest biotechnologies and breeding strategies.Overall,this review compiles rare and valuable information from studies that solely focuses on detection and depletion of PHA to shed light on and apply technological advancements in addressing potential food safety risks associated with the consumption of common beans.