Macarena Rodríguez-Luengo

Drawing-centred and drawing-associated visual-representation strategies are used in anatomy and histology education, but the literature spans learner-generated drawing, guided drawing, screencasts, multisensory approaches, and model-based visual abstraction. This systematic evidence map examined their use and conducted an exploratory quantitative synthesis of objective learning outcomes among health science students. The review was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261360533) and reported according to PRISMA 2020. Searches finalized in April 2026 covered PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL, and MEDLINE via Ovid, with backward and forward citation searching. After deduplication and supplementary searching, 1129 records were screened, 181 full-text reports were assessed, and 100 unique studies were included in the evidence map. Fifty-one studies were preliminary quantitative candidates. Six independent contrasts met the numerical meta-analysis criteria; however, only four were sufficiently aligned with drawing-centred learning to form the primary quantitative subset. Random-effects meta-analysis using Hedges g, REML estimation, and Hartung–Knapp confidence intervals yielded a positive but statistically uncertain primary estimate (g = 0.18, 95% CI −0.27 to 0.64; I² = 50.1%; τ² = 0.037; prediction interval −0.85 to 1.22). The broader six-contrast model was also positive but uncertain (g = 0.29, 95% CI −0.08 to 0.67). Certainty of evidence was very low. These analyses are exploratory rather than confirmatory because few conceptually comparable studies were available.

La complejidad creciente de los sistemas de salud exige estrategias innovadoras que fortalezcan el trabajo colaborativo, especialmente en lactancia materna, donde convergen factores clínicos, sociales y culturales. En este escenario, la Simulación Clínica Colaborativa Interprofesional (SCCI) se posiciona como metodología con gran potencial para promover aprendizajes en entornos seguros y reflexivos. Objetivo: Evaluar la satisfacción de profesionales de la salud con la experiencia de aprendizaje generada mediante una SCCI en un curso de educación continua en lactancia materna. Metodología: Estudio cuantitativo con componente cualitativo exploratorio, de diseño transversal y no experimental. La muestra incluyó a 216 profesionales del sistema público de salud, seleccionados por conveniencia. La intervención se desarrolló en escenarios de alta fidelidad organizados en 27 grupos interprofesionales. La satisfacción se midió mediante un cuestionario validado y una pregunta abierta. Los datos cuantitativos se analizaron mediante estadística descriptiva y la fiabilidad interna (alfa de Cronbach), mientras que los cualitativos se abordaron mediante codificación abierta y comparaciones constantes. Resultados: El 93,1 % de los participantes otorgó la máxima puntuación de satisfacción. El análisis cualitativo identificó seis dimensiones clave: coordinación interprofesional, comunicación clínica, aprendizaje colaborativo, desarrollo emocional, valoración del debriefing y aplicabilidad clínica. La triangulación evidenció coherencia entre ambos enfoques, reforzando la solidez de los hallazgos. Conclusiones: La SCCI fue percibida como una estrategia formativa altamente satisfactoria y factible, capaz de suplir brechas de la formación tradicional y fortalecer la colaboración interprofesional en la atención de la lactancia materna.

Background/Objectives: Despite decades of technological progress, the diagnosis of dental caries still depends largely on subjective, operator-dependent assessment, leading to inconsistent detection of early lesions and delayed intervention. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative approach capable of standardizing diagnostic performance and, in some cases, surpassing human accuracy. This scoping review critically synthesizes the current evidence on AI for caries detection and examines its true translational readiness for clinical practice. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WoS), covering studies published from January 2019 to June 2024, in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligible studies included original research evaluating the use of AI for dental caries detection, published in English or Spanish. Review articles, editorials, opinion papers, and studies unrelated to caries detection were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted, and charted data on imaging modality, sample characteristics, AI architecture, validation approach, and diagnostic performance metrics. Extracted data were summarized narratively and comparatively across studies using tabulated and graphical formats. Results: Thirty studies were included from an initial pool of 617 records. Most studies employed convolutional neural network (CNN)-based architectures and reported strong diagnostic performance, although these results come mainly from experimental settings and should be interpreted with caution. Bitewing radiography dominated the evidence base, reflecting technological maturity and greater reproducibility compared with other imaging modalities. Conclusions: Although the reported metrics are technically robust, the current evidence remains insufficient for real-world clinical adoption. Most models were trained on small, single-source datasets that do not reflect clinical diversity, and only a few underwent external or multicenter validation. Until these translational and methodological gaps are addressed, AI for caries detection should be regarded as promising yet not fully clinically reliable. By outlining these gaps and emerging opportunities, this review offers readers a concise overview of the current landscape and the key steps needed to advance AI toward meaningful clinical implementation.

Background: The radial artery (RA) is one of the terminal branches of the brachial artery, extending along the lateral forearm, crossing the anatomical snuffbox, and contributing to the palmar arches. Anatomical variations in the RA are of great clinical relevance due to their implications in procedures such as transradial catheterization, arterial cannulation, and bypass grafting. These variants may alter the course, branching pattern, or origin of the vessel, potentially increasing procedural complexity and the risk of iatrogenic injury. In critically ill patients and in surgical or interventional settings, accurate identification of RA anatomy is essential. The objective of this study was to systematically identify and describe RA variants reported in the scientific literature and to analyze their clinical relevance. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across six electronic databases: Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS), covering publications up to July 2025. Eligible studies included anatomical, radiological, and surgical investigations reporting RA variants. Study quality was evaluated using the Assessment of Quality in Anatomical Studies (AQUA) tool. Quantitative synthesis was performed using a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of RA variants and subgroup differences. Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria, and eleven were included in the meta-analysis, encompassing a total of 6320 participants. Results: Radial artery variants were categorized into three main types: variations in origin, course, and branching pattern. The pooled global prevalence of RA variants was 12% (95% CI: 6–18%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 97.7%). Higher prevalence was found in imaging-based studies (14%) compared with donor-based studies (12%). Sex-based subgroup analysis revealed a higher prevalence in females (18%; CI: 9–28%) compared with males (3%; CI: 3–4%), with moderate heterogeneity (I² = 61.3%). Regionally, European populations demonstrated a higher prevalence (20%) than Asian populations (11%), both showing high heterogeneity (I² > 98%). Notably, only one study from the Americas and none from Africa or Oceania were identified, representing a major geographical limitation in the available data. The findings of this study highlight the considerable variability in RA anatomy across populations. Such variations hold significant clinical importance, particularly in the context of transradial interventions, arterial cannulation, and reconstructive procedures where vascular integrity is critical. The high degree of heterogeneity observed may reflect differences in population genetics, sample size, and imaging or dissection methodologies. The limited representation of certain regions underscores the need for further anatomical and radiological studies to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of global RA variability. Preoperative or pre-procedural imaging using Doppler ultrasonography or computed tomography angiography is recommended to identify anomalous patterns and minimize iatrogenic complications. Conclusions: Radial artery variants are frequent and diverse. Their recognition is fundamental for the safety and success of invasive and surgical procedures in the upper limb. A standardized approach to vascular evaluation, particularly through preoperative imaging, is essential to improve procedural outcomes and reduce the risk of arterial injury in clinical practice.

Background/Objectives: Dental caries is one of the most prevalent oral diseases. Traditionally, the detection and diagnosis have been performed using conventional methods, such as visual inspection and radiographs. In this context, artificial intelligence-based tools have emerged as promising solutions to improve the efficiency and accuracy of dental caries detection. The objective of this scoping review was to map the scientific evidence available in the literature on the use of artificial intelligence tools for the detection of dental caries. Methods: This review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. A literature search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WoS) databases using the search expression "artificial intelligence AND dental caries". Inclusion criteria were articles published in the last five years, in English or Spanish and available in full text. Results: The initial search yielded 617 records. After reviewing titles, 143 articles were selected, and upon removing duplicates, 93 unique entries remained. Following abstract evaluation, 40 articles were chosen for full-text review. Finally, 30 publications were included in this review. Conclusions: The evidence shows that artificial intelligence (AI) tools applied to dental caries detection have demonstrated significant improvements in diagnostic accuracy, with sensitivity and specificity values that are comparable to or even exceed those of traditional methods. Thus, the evidence indicates that the integration of AI is no longer a question of if, but how profoundly it will reshape the existing paradigms of dental diagnostics.

Introduction: Simulation is used to teach and practice radiographic image acquisition through the use of an ideal model or phantom that reproduces the ideal intraoral characteristics of a patient. It utilizes real X-ray equipment, allowing for standardized and repeatable practice. This study aims to understand the perception of learning periapical radiographic image acquisition with a phantom among teachers and students who took imaging courses between 2020 and 2022 at the Universidad Andrés Bello, Viña del Mar campus, Chile. Material and Methods: An observational, descriptive, quantitative study with a convenience sample of 201 students and 3 teachers. The Barsuk questionnaire was applied to measure learning perception, with 7 questions rated on a 5-point Likert scale, plus a dichotomous question leading to an open-ended question. Data were analyzed with SPSS statistical software, and measures of central tendency, Chi-square, and Z-test (p<0.05) were observed. Results: Students had a positive perception (p<0.05) regarding useful feedback, the mandatory nature of the phantom practice, and that this experience improves their preparation. The realism of the phantom obtained the lowest mean (2= Disagree). Teachers expressed a positive perception (median= 5) in all statements except for the realism of the phantom (median= 2). Conclusions: Both students and teachers perceive the use of phantoms for radiographic image acquisition practice positively; therefore, its use is suggested for teaching imaging in dentistry

Background: Glioblastoma is a primary malignant brain tumor; it is aggressive with a high degree of malignancy and unfavorable prognosis and is the most common type of malignant brain tumor. Glioblastomas can be located in the brain, cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord, originating from glial cells, particularly astrocytes. Methods: The databases MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and CINAHL were researched up to January 2024. Two authors independently performed the search, study selection, and data extraction. Methodological quality was evaluated with an assurance tool for anatomical studies (AQUA). The statistical mean, standard deviation, and difference of means calculated with the Student’s t-test for presence between hemispheres and presence in the frontal and temporal lobes were analyzed. Results: A total of 123 studies met the established selection criteria, with a total of 6224 patients. In relation to the mean, GBM between hemispheres had a mean of 33.36 (SD 58.00) in the right hemisphere and a mean of 34.70 (SD 65.07) in the left hemisphere, due to the difference in averages between hemispheres. There were no statistically significant differences, p = 0.35. For the comparison between the presence of GBM in the frontal lobe and the temporal lobe, there was a mean in the frontal lobe of 23.23 (SD 40.03), while in the temporal lobe, the mean was 22.05 (SD 43.50), and for the difference in means between the frontal lobe and the temporal lobe, there was no statistically significant difference for the presence of GBM, p = 0.178. Conclusions: We believe that before a treatment, it will always be correct to know where the GBM is located and how it behaves clinically, in order to generate correct conservative or surgical treatment guidelines for each patient. We believe that more detailed studies are also needed to show why GBM is associated more with some regions than others, despite the brain structure being homologous to other regions in which GMB occurs less frequently, which is why knowing its predominant presence in brain regions is very important.

El conocimiento del espacio suboccipital (OA) es esencial para el clínico debido a que su disminución se asocia a posible causa de cefaleas. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar las diferencias entre la longitud del espacio suboccipital en telerradiografías laterales entre hombres y mujeres de distintos rangos etarios. En este estudio transversal se analizaron un total de 371 telerradiografías laterales de cráneo. Se realizó estadística descriptiva y la aplicación de prueba T-Student y ANOVA para evaluar la asociación entre el espacio suboccipital con el género y la edad. La distancia media del espacio suboccipital fue de 5.62 ± 2.7 mm, siendo mayor en hombres que en mujeres (6.49 ± 2.8 mm y 5.09 ± 2.5 mm respectivamente, p<0.001). Con respecto a la edad, la distancia del espacio suboccipital no presentó variaciones significativas. La longitud del OA entre los hombres y mujeres de distintos grupos tampoco mostró diferencias significativas. Existe una gran variabilidad en la distancia del espacio suboccipital, el cual se observa más disminuido en mujeres, por lo que se sugiere un análisis individual mediante telerradiografía lateral frente a pacientes con cefaleas.

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of anatomical variants in the bifid mandibular condyle (BMC) and report its association with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathology. Methods: We searched the Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and LILACS databases from their inception up to September 2023. Two authors independently performed the search, study selection, and data extraction, and they also assessed the methodological quality with an assurance tool for anatomical studies (AQUA). Finally, the pooled prevalence was estimated using a random effects model. Results: A total of 50 studies met the eligibility criteria. Twenty studies, with a total of 88,625 subjects, were included in the meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of the bifid mandibular condyle (BMC) variant was 1% (95% CI = 1% to 2%). Conclusions: The correlation between the BMC and TMJ pathologies has a relatively low prevalence in studies that present a considerable number of subjects. From a clinical point of view, a direct association cannot be made between the presence of the BMC and TMJ pathologies or symptoms.

Background: The spleen is the largest secondary immune organ in the body. Knowledge regarding the normal splenic vascular anatomy and its anatomical variants is crucial in the medical practice of surgeons and radiologists and is useful for diagnostic evaluations and the guidance of various surgical procedures. Hence, in this research, we aim to characterize the behavior of the lineal or splenic artery in humans from an anatomoclinical point of view. Methods: A systematic search was carried out in electronic databases to compile the available literature on the research subject. Searches were undertaken in the following databases: Medline, Scielo, Wos, Cinahl, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search terms were “Splenic artery”, “Splenic vascularization”, “Anatomical variations’’, “Splenic organ”, and “Clinical anatomy”. Results: From the 35 studies included in this review, clinical correlations of anatomical variations in the splenic artery with surgical procedures in the abdominal region were reported in 8 studies. These correlations are mainly associated with surgical procedures for the pancreas, liver, stomach, and bile ducts through imaging of the spleen. To verify our conclusions, the risk of bias of the anatomical studies was measured using the AQUA checklist. Conclusions: Recognition of the usual anatomy and anatomical variants of the splenic artery is crucial for both morphology professionals and clinicians addressing the abdominal region and its vascular components. In this review, we determined that the splenic artery could present a variation in its origin or entry into the splenic hilum, which could mean that in any abdominal intervention there may be complications if the splenic artery variation is overlooked. More anatomic clinical studies considering this variation in both diagnostic and surgical processes are suggested for further investigations.