Choi, D. H. | Search bioRxiv

bioRxiv2024

Development and Utilization of 3D Anatomy Education Content using Metaverse and XR for Remote Telemedicine Education

The objective of this study is to explore innovative integration within the field of anatomy education by leveraging HoloLens 2 Augmented Reality Head-Mounted Display (AR HMD) technology and real-time cloud rendering. Initial 3D datasets, comprising extensive anatomical information for each bone, were obtained through the 3D scanning of a full-body cadaver of Korean male origin. Subsequently, these datasets underwent refinement processes aimed at enhancing visual fidelity and optimizing polygon counts, utilizing Blender software. Unity was employed for the development of the Metaverse platform, incorporating tailored 3D User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) components to facilitate interactive anatomy education via imported cadaver models. Integration with real-time remote rendering cloud servers, such as Azure, was implemented to augment the performance and rendering capabilities of the HoloLens 2 AR HMD. The extended reality (XR) content uses the Photon Cloud network for real-time data synchronization and HoloLens 2 voice functionality. The metaverse platform supports user interaction through room creation and joining, with various tools for bone manipulation, color differentiation, and surface output. Collaboration features enable sharing and synchronization of model states. The study highlights the importance of technological innovation in anatomy education for future medical professionals. The proposed content aims to address limitations of traditional methods and enhance learning experiences. Continued efforts in developing and improving such technologies are crucial to equip learners with essential skills for adaptation in the evolving healthcare landscape. keyword: Metaverse, Anatomy, Cadaver, Extended Reality(XR), Virtual Reality(VR)

scientific communication and education↗

bioRxiv2022

Cortical somatostatin interneuron subtypes form cell-type specific circuits

The cardinal interneuron classes are a useful simplification of cortical interneuron diversity, but such broad subgroupings glosses over the molecular, morphological, and circuit specificity of interneuron subtypes, most notably among the somatostatin interneuron class. The organizing principles by which the connectivity of these subtypes is specified are unknown. To address this knowledge gap, we designed a series of genetic strategies to target the breadth of somatostatin interneuron subtypes. Using these strategies to target three subtypes that span the entire cortical column, we examined their afferent and efferent connectivity. Our data demonstrated that each of these possesses remarkable reciprocal connectivity with the intracortical or corticofugal pyramidal classes, as well as parvalbumin interneurons. Even when two interneuron subtypes shared the same efferent target, their synaptic targeting proved selective for particular dendritic compartments. We thus provide evidence that subtypes of somatostatin cortical interneurons form cell-type specific cortical circuits.

neuroscience↗