Computed anatomical modelling of the optic pathway and oculomotor system using magnetic resonance imaging

Correlations between the Visual Apparatus and Dental Occlusion: A Literature Review

Background

The development of visual functions takes place in the first months of postnatal life and is completed around the one year of age. In this period, the maturation of the retina and the visual pathways occur, and binocular bonds are established at the level of the visual cortex. During this phase and then for a few years, a certain plasticity of the visual functions remains, which seem therefore susceptible to change both in a pejorative sense (by pathogens) and in an improving sense (for example, by therapeutic measures). This plasticity involves also the oculomotor system. Due to this plasticity, many researchers believe that there are some functional correlations between the visual and the stomatognathic apparatus. But the scientific evidence of this statement has not been clarified yet.

Aim

The purpose of this review is therefore to analyze the clinical data in this field and finally to establish their level of evidence. Studies have been collected from the main databases, based on keywords.

Results

The results showed a middle level of evidence since most of the data derive from case-control studies and cross-sectional studies.

Conclusions

The level of evidence allows establishing that there is a correlation between ocular disorders (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, exophoria, and an unphysiological gait due to ocular convergence defects) and dental occlusion, but it is not possible to establish the cause-effect relationship. Future studies should be aimed at establishing higher levels of evidence (prospective, controlled, and randomized studies).

Computer Applications in Health Science Education

In recent years, computer application development has experienced exponential growth, not only in the number of publications but also in the scope or contexts that have benefited from its use. In health science training, and medicine specifically, the gradual incorporation of technological developments has transformed the teaching and learning process, resulting in true "educational technology". The goal of this paper is to review the main features involved in these applications and highlight the main lines of research for the future. The results of peer reviewed literature published recently indicate the following features shared by the key technological developments in the field of health science education: first, development of simulation and visualization systems for a more complete and realistic representation of learning material over traditional paper format; second, portability and versatility of the applications, adapted for an increasing number of devices and operative systems; third, increasing focus on open source applications such as Massive Open Online Course (MOOC).

Open Source Applications for Image Visualization and Processing in Neuroimaging Training

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the major role and potential of three of the most powerful open source computerized tools for the advanced processing of medical images, in the study of neuroanatomy. DICOM images were acquired with radiodiagnostic equipment using 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance (MR) images. Images were further processed using the following applications: first, OsiriXTM version 4.0 32 bits for OS; Second, 3D Slicer version 4.3; and finally, MRIcron, version 6. Advanced neuroimaging processing requires two key features: segmentation and three-dimensional or volumetric reconstruction. Examples of identification and reconstruction of some of the most complex neuroimaging elements such vascular ones and tractographies are included in this paper. The three selected applications represent some of the most versatile technologies within the field of medical imaging.