THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PLASTINATION: ASSESSMENT AND PROGRESS OVER THE SECOND SEVENTEEN ISSUES
Adds Philip
St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom

The Journal of the International Society for Plastination (JISP) was first published in1987; it was re-launched as The Journal of Plastination in 2012. In 1999, Regis Olry published an analysis of the first seventeen issues of the journal. Olry’s study aimed to assess the evolution of the journal by analyzing data of the full-length papers. In the current study, the seventeen subsequent issues were subjected to a similar analysis. Data on the average length (number of pages) of each original contribution, the number of articles in each issue and total page numbers of each issue, the number of references (from the JISP and from other sources) and the country of origin of the authors were analyzed. In the seventeen issues from Volume 14(1) (1999) to Volume 27(1) (2015), 78 research papers, 13 sets of abstracts, and 12 Meeting or Interim Meeting reports were published. The average length of the original articles was 5.7 pages (+/- 2.2), range 2-13. The average number of references was 13.7 (+/- 8.9), range 0-55, of which 5.9 (+/- 5.7), range 0-28, were from previous issues of the JISP, and 7.8 (+/- 7.0), range 0-42, were from other published sources. The average number of pages in each issue was 48.9 (+/- 15.0), range 30-83 pages. Of the 98 recorded authors, the majority (35) were from the USA; 11 were from Austria, 8 from Spain, 6 from Canada, 5 from New Zealand, and 4 each from China and the UK. A total of 24 countries were represented, from America, Asia, Europe, Africa, and Oceania, demonstrating the worldwide reach of the Journal.

INTEGRATING DIGITAL PLASTINATION ASSETS INTO A CASE BASED EXTENDED REALITY PRE HEALTH PROFESSION CURRICULUM
Aytac Gunes¹, Romine Rebecca², Thompson Jesse¹, Kawelo Maia², Lee U-Young³, Labrash Steven¹, Kauanoe Ronnie², Lozanoff Scott^1
1University Of Hawai‘i At Manoa, Anatomy, Biochemistry And Physiology, Honolulu, United States; ²University Of Hawai‘i - West O‘ahu, Mathematics, Natural And Health Sciences Division, Kapolei, United States; ³The Catholic University Of Korea, Department Of Anatomy, Seoul, South Korea

Crafting an anatomy curriculum involves consideration of teaching strategies and materials to foster an immersive learning environment. Enriching the educational experience with a broad range of sensory engagements and interactive teaching methods may enhance information retention. With this objective in mind, this study aimed to develop and integrate Case-Based Learning (CBL) with various extended reality (XR) tools, such as plastinated, artistic, and segmented extended reality (XR) models to evaluate student perceptions of learning and academic advancement. CBL modules were aligned with previously developed learning objectives (LO) from an introductory Anatomy & Physiology course for pre-health profession students (n=15). The modules were accessed online during lab sessions where students collaborated with their peers at each table (n=3-4). Student groups answered leading questions, interacted with XR models, and participated in online exercises. CBL modules included basic patient information, history, chief complaint, physical exam, radiology, pathology reports, and anatomical considerations. The modules utilized digitally embedded learning exercises to promote content review. Short-term memory was assessed with a pre-and post-module quiz. Long-term retention was measured with a post-post-quiz two weeks later. A survey with 20 questions on a 5-point Likert scale gauged student perceptions of learning. The survey was conducted before and after students completed the CBL module. The CBL modules significantly improved student test scores (Wilk's Lambda = .54, F (2,14) = 5.91, p = 0.014). Post-hoc analysis showed a notable increase in mean scores from pre-test (1.94) to post-post-test (3.56), (p = 0.011). All surveyed students agreed that CBL modules enhanced their confidence in the subject and were valuable course supplements. Integrating innovative teaching methods into undergraduate pre-health curriculum enhances learning and is an effective instructional tool. Future steps include increasing the sample size and adding more CBL modules to the anatomy & physiology course to assess student engagement and skill development. This work was funded by the Enhancing Discovery-based Learning in STEM Education by Integrating Augmented Technology and Culture-based Pedagogy project (NSF TCUP TSIP #1855379).

EXAMINATION OF THE SPLENIC VASCULAR SYSTEM USING THE CORROSION CAST EFFECT TECHNIQUE ONE OF THE PLASTINATION METHODS
Boduç Erengül¹, Günerkan Kerem Can^2
1Kafkas University, Anatomy, Kars/Merkez, Türkiye; ²Atatürk University, Anatomy, Erzurum, Turkiye

Plastination is a method that reflects the most detailed line between death and life. Thanks to plastination, biological tissues and cadavers turn into a tangible and non-decaying form.
Corrosion casting effect is an important technique of the plastination method. The corrosion technique is a miraculous method for displaying lumen-bearing organs or vascular structures and visualizing the branches and anastomoses that even radiological imaging cannot reveal.
This study aimed to elucidate the splenic vascular system of cattle and sheep (obtained from a slaughterhouse) using the corrosion technique. Imicryl self-cure liquid and imicryl self-cure powder chemicals were mixed and colored (artery red, vein blue) and injected into the splenic artery and vein. After the mixture dried and hardened (overnight), the spleen was left in acid or alkali solution (conc. KOH or H₂SO₄). The solution will then dissolve all the spleen tissue, revealing the splenic vascular system. Examination of the vascular system of the spleen using the corrosion technique may provide new material for student education in health schools and faculties that take anatomy courses. Since the spleen vascular system emerging with the corrosion technique turns the virtual reality offered by radiological images into a tangible material, it can increase students' interest in anatomy education and offer a great anatomical course tool to be used especially in postgraduate education.

THE EFFECT OF IMPREGNATION TIME ON BRAIN TISSUE AND APPEARANCE OF THE ORANGE SPOTS DURING THE P40 TECHNIQUE
Cichewicz John J¹, Frank Patrick W², Baptista Carlos AC^1
1University Of Toledo, Medical Education, Toledo, United States; ²Drexel University, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Wyomissing, United States

Biodur P40 has been used to impregnate brain sections for decades due to its quality of contrast by distinguishing white and gray matter in a spectacular way. However, a commonly reported issue with the P40 method is the occurrence of orange spots in the gray matter of brain tissue. There have been several speculations on the origin of the orange spots, which includes incomplete fixation and poor fixatives, deficient impregnation, insufficient dehydration and over exposure to UV light during curing. This study investigated how the duration of impregnation of P40 affects the formation of orange spots in horse brain slices that were dehydrated to 99.5% purity measured by an acetometer. Sixteen (16) 3-4 mm sections of horse brains previously fixed with Carolina Biological fixative were used for this experiment. The slices were placed into the following groups: 7-hours, 10-hours, 24-hours, and 48-hours of impregnation. Acetone bubbles appeared at 250 mmHg and the pressure progressively descended to 10 mmHg while being monitored via digital monometer. All groups were plated at the same time in a horizontal chamber. The orange spots were noticeably absent prior to exposure to UV light for hardening. Once the slices were submitted to UV light for 2 to 3 hours, the orange spots appeared. We found that regardless of the impregnation time, all brain slices displayed orange spots in the gray matter after exposure to UV light. None of the groups showed any substantial improvement compared to the others. We will continue this study by investigating the fixation and fixative procedure as well as the curing process and its effect on the origin of the orange spots in the P40 technique.

SETTING UP A SMALL SIZE PLASTINATION LAB IN TURKEY: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BEGINNERS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Ekim Okan¹, Bakıcı Caner¹, Batur Barış¹, Yunus Hasen Awel¹, Çakır Ahmet², Tunalı Selçuk^3
1Ankara University Faculty Of Veterinary Medicine, Anatomy, Ankara, Türkiye; ²Nkara University Faculty Of Veterinary Medicine, Anatomy, Ankara, Türkiye; ³Tobb University of Economics and Technology, School Of Medicine, Anatomy, Ankara, Türkiye

Plastination has quite different stages compared to other anatomical preservation and preparation methods. These stages require specified facilities, devices and, of course, experience than usual anatomy labs. Researchers should be equipped and competent not only in terms of academic knowledge but also occupational safety and biological security. Also, the personnel must receive comprehensive training before entering the laboratory. In this study, all activities and planning, from the establishment of a small size plastination lab to the routine mass production stage, are described. Substantial points, including the technical properties of the laboratory to be established, the infrastructure of the facility, the selection of functional equipment and devices, and the training of the personnel and students who will enter the laboratory, have been reported in a detailed manner. In order to establish the laboratory, an infrastructure project was given to the university scientific research support office. The integration of the laboratory into the existing building was planned meticulously. Laboratory personnel received training in similar laboratories at home and abroad. Equipment, devices and chemicals were purchased through a local representative company of Biodur®. The purpose of this presentation is to explain the processes to be followed, the problems that may be experienced, the experiences gained and the alternatives that can be evaluated to the researchers who are planning to join our international plastination family. In this way, it is aimed to enable beginners to establish a lab with more effective facilities without experiencing the same problems.

FIRST EXPERIENCE OF USING PLASTINATED PREPARATIONS OF LIMBS AMPUTATED DUE TO MINE BLAST TRAUMA FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
Fomin Nicolai¹, Starchik Dmitry^2
1Military Medical Academy, Topographical Anatomy, Saint Petersburg, Russia; ²Northwest State Medical University, Human Anatomy, Saint Petersburg, Russia

Our experience in teaching operative surgery and clinical anatomy to military field surgeons indicates that one of the most effective methods of training in surgical techniques, considering the real surgical anatomy of gunshot and blast injuries, is the demonstration of genuine pathological anatomical specimens illustrating the actual picture of combat injuries.
Since 2021, we have been using plastinated preparations of limbs amputated from wounded individuals after mine-blast trauma and crushing injuries of the feet and lower legs to teach amputation techniques. The anatomical material was collected in 1985 during medical support operations in Afghanistan. Initial fixation of the objects was performed in a 10% solution of neutral formalin with regular re-fixation of the material every 5 years. Plastination of the segments of amputated limbs was carried out using two techniques: silicone plastination at room temperature and epoxy plastination of longitudinal and cross-sections of the foot and lower leg in areas corresponding to the gas-dust destruction line and limb detachment.
The obtained silicone and epoxy plastinates clearly show the zones of combat trauma:
1. Zone of complete anatomical defect

2. Zone of incomplete anatomical defect
3. Zone of contusion
4. Zone of concussion.

Using the epoxy technique, it is possible to demonstrate changes not only on the skin and surface but also in the deep structures of the limbs. The practice of using real anatomical objects illustrating modern military surgery experiences in lectures and practical classes has received exceptional approval from both the faculty and the students.

SYNERGIZING PLASTINATED SPECIMENS WITH 3D SCANNING FOR ADVANCED MEDICAL EDUCATION: APPLICATION IN A MEDICAL CURRICULUM
Frank Patrick¹, Baptista Carlos AC², Howe Caitlin^1
1Drexel University College of Medicine, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Reading, United States ²University Of Toledo College of Medicine, Medical Education, Toledo, United States

In the realm of medical education, the convergence of plastinated specimens and 3D scanning presents a transformative approach to anatomical teaching and learning. Virtual 3D scans have been shown to be an effective educational tool as they allow manipulation of the scans, improve identification of anatomical structures, are accessible outside of the classroom and have had positive reviews among students for ease and pleasantness of the programs. Our team created the 3D SCANatomy lab to provide students with 3D scans of cadaveric dissections for use while studying Gross Anatomy. We aimed to use the proper specimens and develop an efficient and effective scanning technique to reduce time spent scanning and improve the quality of the scans. Both plastinated and wet anatomical dissections were scanned (Einscan Pro HD), edited, labeled, and made available for use for our first-year medical students enrolled in the Gross Anatomy course. The plastinated specimens were significantly easier to handle and resulted in less movement of the specimen during and between the scans. These typically resulted in a faster scanning process due to reduced set up and editing time, as well as a better image due to less overlap of multiple scanning sessions for larger specimens. While both plastinated and wet specimens were able to be used as a remote studying resource, an advantage of the plastinated scans is their long-term use in conjunction with the 3D scans so students can use the physical resource while using the 3D scan as an identification guide allowing them to study independently. This study confirms the usefulness of plastinated specimens over wet cadaveric specimens for the creation of 3D scans. The integration of plastinated specimens with 3D scans heralds a new era in medical education, characterized by enhanced accessibility, interactivity, and customization. By harnessing the collective strengths of these modalities, educators can cultivate a generation of healthcare professionals adept in anatomical understanding and clinical application, poised to meet the challenges of modern healthcare practice.

P40 SHEET PLASTINATION OF BRAIN SECTIONS: AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL FOR SECTIONAL ANATOMY
Jayaraman Pushpaja, Jessy¹, Pandey Jayashri², Dhingra Renu^1
1All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Anatomy, Delhi, India; ²Sushila Tiwari Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Haldwani, India

Background: Plastination preserves biological tissues retaining most of their original appearance, widely applicable in teaching and research. Specimens can be impregnated with polymer, like silicone, epoxy, polyester but polyester is more suitable for nerve tissues due to greater differentiation between white and gray matter. Polyester plastination mainly uses P40 resin, and curing of P40 differs by using ultraviolet light for polymerization. P40 plastinated brain slices yield fine anatomical detail, enabling us to visualize and understand three-dimensional topography from different angles and compare with various imaging techniques. It augments diagnostic and clinical acumen of radiologists and physicians thus bringing in a better therapeutic and monitoring of patients. In this study, we established a standardized procedure for plastination of brain slices using the P40 technique. This method resulted in improved distinction between gray and white matter, making it a valuable resource for teaching sectional anatomy.
Methods: Brains were procured from donated cadavers to the Department of Anatomy. Coronal and transverse slices of 4 mm were made from formalin fixed brains. The slices were dehydrated in acetone at -25 °C followed by forced impregnation with P40 and A4 mixture (100:1) at room temperature as well as at -25 °C. The brain slices were put into glass chambers filled with immersion mixture and then exposed to UVA light in UV curing chamber. The morphometry (maximum length and breadth) was done before dehydration, impregnation, curing, and after curing. The shrinkage percentage was calculated after the entire procedure. Results: The room temperature impregnation was faster than cold impregnation. The mean % shrinkage was more in specimens impregnated at room temperature compared to specimens impregnated at -25 °C. Brain slices exhibited a clear visual contrast between gray and white matter, blood vessels were highlighted beautifully. In P40sections, structures such as the anterior commissure, external capsule, and claustrum were more clearly discernible compared to S10 sections. Conclusions: P40 plastinated brain slices contribute most to studying sectional anatomy with better understanding and interpretation of radiological anatomy. These durable, dry, storable specimens will go a long way to generate an anatomical database, help to reconstruct 3D models, and can also be displayed in a variety of customized manners.

 PERMANENT PRESERVATION OF CORROSION CASTS THROUGH EMBEDDING IN NORSODYNE® O 12335 AL
Kostadinov Genadi¹, Ignatova Jaclyn², Vodenicharov Angel^1
1Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
²Student of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

This study aimed to analyze the quality of the corrosion casts cured in the polyester resin NORSODYNE® O 12335 AL, prepared with Duracryl Plus® O (Spofa Dental, Czech Republic), considering the advantages and disadvantages of the prepared specimens. Cold-polymerizing acrylic resin Duracryl Plus O (Spofa Dental, Czech Republic) in various colors was used for making corrosion casts from the cardiovascular system of a heart (rabbit), arterial systems of a kidney (sheep), testis (ram), epididymis (boar), and rete mirabile (goat). Subsequently, the casts were pre-processed according to a specific protocol and placed in silicone molds of appropriate sizes made of duplicating silicone "Poli Silicone" (Polident, Slovenia). Polyester resin base NORSODYNE O 12335 AL with a room temperature catalyst was poured into them and left for 24 hours without the use of vacuum. The finished polymer blocks containing the embedded objects were shaped on a belt grinder and polished. A fine stream of quick-drying nitrocellulose lacquer was used for the final appearance. The final specimens exhibited a high level of transparency, with the corrosion casts embedded within them showing well-defined three-dimensional features without any deformations, color alterations, or additional optical effects. Furthermore, it was noted that the polymerization process proceeded smoothly, without the formation of gas bubbles. The results provide a basis for recommending the technique for embedding corrosion casts in acrylic plastics. Advantages include storage without special conditions for an unlimited period, low cost, non-toxicity, preservation of shape, volume, and color, transparency, and three-dimensional presentation of details. As a disadvantage, the low mechanical strength of the polymer blocks compared to those made of epoxy resin can be noted. The methodology can be applied in veterinary and human medical education, biology, and for scientific purposes and the preparation of museum exhibits.

FROM rags to riches
Møller Dall Annette, Chemnitz John
University of Southern Denmark, Winsløw Unit for Anatomy, Histology and Plastination, Odense, Denmark

One of the fascinating things about the S10 plastination technique is that it in principle requires a minimum of equipment. A freezer and a vacuum pump and you are “up and running”. However, the use of acetone can be a challenge in some countries due to strict rules regarding potential risk of explosion (EU ATEX directive). In Odense, Denmark, we started plastinating in 2008 in a tiny room in the basement, which was rebuilt for that purpose: fifteen square metres, which was just enough to house the two required freezers. This year our Anatomy Department moved to a new facility with 90 square metres for plastination, as well as rooms for dissection, staining, and curing. The new buildings required a tightening up on security which we will fulfil in the form of a pipeline with acetone from a tank outside the building, special freezer lids which will automatically close in case of raised temperature in the laboratory, an escape route, and a lot of documentation. As part of the moving process, our department has changed its name and is now named after the famous anatomist Jacques-Benigne Winslow, who was born in Odense in 1669 and died in Paris, 1760. Winslow is well known for the discovery of the entrance to the small pouch in the peritoneum – later dubbed the foramen epiploicum Winslowi in his honor.

MICRO PLASTINATION TECHNIQUE FOR DETAILED VISUALIZATION OF THE DENTOGINGIVAL JUNCTION IN CANIS FAMILIARIS MANDIBLE
Ottone Nicolas¹, Panes Camila², Correa Jaime³, Guzman Diego², Vazquez Belgica^4
1Universidad de la Frontera, Laboratory of Plastination and Anatomical Techniques, Temuco, Chile; ²Universidad De La Frontera, Dental School, Temuco, Chile; ³Universidad San Sebastian, Dental School, Puerto Montt, Chile; ⁴Universidad De La Frontera, Medicine School, Temuco, Chile

Plastination has transformed anatomy and research by ensuring biosecurity and allowing for the prolonged preservation of biological specimens, from whole bodies to individual tissues and even thin slices. The dentogingival junction, which includes both epithelial and connective tissues adjacent to tooth's mineralized structures, has traditionally been studied using animal models and histological methods that do not include enamel and focus exclusively on either hard or soft tissues. In this study, we employed micro-plastination techniques using Biodur® E12 to create ultra-thin sections (under 200 μm) of the mandible from a Canis familiaris. These sections were stained to explore the microanatomy of the dentogingival junction, utilizing the natural autofluorescence of the technique. Through micro-plastination, staining, and autofluorescence, we were able to observe and identify various structures within the dentogingival and periodontal areas, such as dentin, enamel, the cementoenamel junction, dentinal tubules, connective tissue, and collagen, in the Canis familiaris sample.

DEVELOPMENT OF A SILICONE PLASTINATION TECHNIQUE FOR THE PRESERVATION OF HUMAN FETUSES
Ottone Nicolás¹, Prieto Ruth², Rojas Mariana^3
1Universidad de la Frontera, Laboratory of Plastination and Anatomical Techniques, Temuco, Chile; ²Universidad de la Frontera, School of Medicine, Temuco, Chile; ³Universidad de Chile, School of Medicine, Santiago, Chile

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of plastination in preserving human fetuses that have been preserved in formalin for a long period of time. In this work, twelve human fetuses preserved in 10% formalin, for 20 to 50 years, were plastinated with Biodur® S10 silicone in the Laboratory of Plastination and Anatomical Techniques at Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile. The fetuses were first dehydrated using pure acetone and then impregnated with local commercial silicone and catalyst in a vacuum chamber to ensure optimal preservation. Fetal positioning was also performed to place the material in the anatomical position. The results showed that the plastination technique completely preserved the fetal anatomy without obvious tissue shrinkage. The study concluded that fetuses stored for a long period of time with formalin can be optimally plastinated, obtaining results with morphological details and external characteristics of fetal development similar to those presented prior to the application of the plastination technique. Silicone plastination technique ensures the preservation of all types of biological samples in a dry state, without deformations and with the possibility of safe handling for an indefinite period of time.

E12 SHEET PLASTINATION TECHNIQUE OF SUS SCROFA DOMESTICA HEAD SLICES FOR IDENTIFICATION OF THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT ANATOMY AND ITS IMAGING BY CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
Ottone Nicolás¹, Veuthey Carlos¹, Popp Albertina², Fuentes Ramón³, del Sol Mariano^4
1Universidad de la Frontera, Laboratory of Plastination and Anatomical Techniques, Temuco, Chile; ²Universidad Nacional Del Sur, Instituto De Ciencias Biologicas Y Biomedicas Del Sur, Conicet, Bahia Blanca, Argentina; ³Universidad de la Frontera, Dental School, Temuco, Chile; ⁴Universidad de la Frontera, School of Medicine, Temuco, Chile

Plastination is a technique for anatomical preservation of cadavers. This technique was created in 1977 by Gunther von Hagens in Heidelberg, Germany. It replaces biological and/or fixation liquids with acetone and then impregnates the samples with different resins, depending on the conservation technique. The objective of this work was to develop a protocol for the plastination of sections with epoxy resin (Biodur® E12) in 2 mm thick pig (Sus scrofa domestica) head sections with its corresponding cone-beam computed tomography imaging correlate. The samples were first fixed and preserved with 5% formalin. They were then placed on polyurethane foam blocks, frozen, and sectioned on a circular saw, obtaining thin slices 2 mm thick. These slices were immediately placed for dehydration in 100% acetone, at -25 °C, for 5 weeks, with 5 successive acetone baths. An additional 2 weeks were given for the degreasing process in acetone at room temperature. Once the sections were dehydrated and degreased, they were placed in a mixture of Biodur® E12 epoxy resin, with its Biodur® E1 catalyst (100:50 pbw). Forced impregnation of the sections was carried out in a vacuum chamber at room temperature (20-22 °C), for 16 hours. Once the forced impregnation was completed, the curing stage proceeded. The first step of this stage consisted of an assembly of flat glass chambers within which the sections were placed with a new mixture of Biodur E12+E1. The curing chambers were subsequently placed in an oven at 50 °C to accelerate polymerization and complete the plastination process. In the Laboratory of Plastination and Anatomical Techniques at Universidad de La Frontera in Temuco, Chile, a protocol for sheet plastination with epoxy resin was successfully developed. The slices were excellently conserved, with precise identification of the anatomical structures of the temporomandibular joint. The conservation of all morphological characteristics and their correlation with cone-beam computed tomography images allowed its corresponding clinical application.

COMBINED PLASTINATION TECHNIQUE: APPLICATION OF E12 EPOXY RESIN, IN ANATOMICAL SECTIONS OF 2-4 MILLIMETERS, AND FLEXIBLE POLYMER OR SILICONE, FIRST EXPERIENCE IN BOLIVIA
Rodriguez Torrez Victor Hugo¹, Ottone Nicolás E^2
1Universidad Privada Del Valle, Sub Sede La Paz, Bolivia; ²Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile

Introduction: In recent years, anatomical techniques have been developed for the conservation of human and animal cadaveric specimens. The plastination technique allows anatomical preparations to be preserved for an indefinite period of time and without toxicity. Materials and Methods: We used human anatomical samples with a thickness of 0.4 cm fixed with 10% formalin, and initially dehydrated with enamel remover and subsequently with pure acetone due to restrictions on use in Bolivia. The concentration recorded using an acetonometer reached 99.5%, acceptable to develop this technique. Forced impregnation was carried out in a vacuum chamber and at room temperature; 24 hours beforehand, the sections were immersed in epoxy resin without catalyst. The chamber was sealed, and the vacuum began, starting with 495 mmHg of pressure in the city of La Paz, Bolivia until reaching 20 mmHg at 24 hours, with active and passive emptying intervals. In the case of the silicone technique, active and passive emptying sessions were carried out for 2 hours each, until the acetone was eliminated, observing a decrease in the formation of bubbles. At the end of the processes, the samples were left at rest, allowing the vacuum to be slowly lost by progressively releasing the valve. Polymerization, in epoxy resin, was used in the sandwich method with the use of glass plates insulated with acetate, dispersing resin below and above the sections, avoiding trapping bubbles with this procedure; it was covered with a new acetate and finally it was covered with a new glass plate. In the case of silicone polymerization, the conventional process was followed, after pigmentation of the samples. Results and Conclusions: The plastination protocol at room temperature of sections with epoxy resin and silicone was established with some modifications in the dehydration and forced impregnation process. This was facilitated thanks to the atmospheric pressure of La Paz, Bolivia. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sections were obtained, preserving and allowing for better appreciation and biosafe manipulation of their morphological characteristics. The silicone technique was combined with epoxy resin for a better presentation and display of the preparations.

LAYERED STRUCTURE OF FACIAL SOFT TISSUES IN EPOXY RESIN PLASTINATED SLICES
Starchik Dmitry
Northwest State Medical University, Human Anatomy, Saint Petersburg, Russia

The understanding of the anatomical structure of facial soft tissues is crucial for cosmetologists, plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, and maxillofacial surgeons. Traditional dissection or histological preparations do not provide a complete picture of the thickness of various layers and the topographical anatomy of vessels in different facial regions. Epoxy plastination enables the study of the layered structure of organs and tissues both with the naked eye and under slight magnification, thereby expanding the understanding of the anatomy of facial soft tissues. Donated anatomical head specimens with arterial systems pre-injected with colored silicone composition were used. Serial sections of the head, 2-4 mm thick, were made in horizontal, sagittal, and frontal planes; marked, plastinated using the E12 technique, and scanned at 1200 dpi using an office scanner. Images of various facial regions were analyzed and measured using Adobe Photoshop at magnifications ranging from 5 to 20 times. In the plastinated sections of facial regions, the following soft tissue layers were distinctly visible: skin, subcutaneous tissue, the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) of facial muscles, deep cellular spaces, masticatory muscles and their fascia, parotid gland and its fascia, buccopharyngeal fascia, buccinator muscle, submucosa, mucosa of the oral cavity, periosteum, and the bones of the facial and cranial skeleton. Due to the reaction of hemoglobin and myoglobin with the epoxy resin, veins and muscle fibers were well demonstrated, appearing dark brown on the plastinates. The injection of silicone into the arterial system made facial arteries with diameters of 80 micrometers and larger visible on the transparent plastinates. The use of serial sections allowed for the tracing of the topography of all discovered anatomical structures as they transitioned from one facial region to another. The demonstration of enlarged images of plastinated head sections in practical sessions with plastic surgeons and cosmetologists significantly facilitated the understanding of the layered structure of soft tissues, as well as the topographical anatomy of arteries and veins.

ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICABILITY OF DIAPHONIZED, POLYMER-EMBEDDED PATHOLOGICAL CHICKEN BREAST BONES AFFECTED BY KEEL BONE DAMAGE
Tsandev Nikolay¹, Lazarov Lazarin², Afanasoff Alexander^3
1Faculty of Veterinary medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
²Trakia University, Department of Internal Non-infectious Diseases, Stara Zagora-Bulgaria ³Trakia University, Department of General Livestock Breeding, Stara Zagora-Bulgaria

This study aimed investigate in detail the feasibility of the technique for permanently embedding diaphonized pathologically-altered chest bones of laying hens of various ages, diagnosed with keel bone damage, in epoxy resin, as part of elucidating the etiology of the disease and obtaining permanent educational and museum specimens. For the purposes of the study, the diaphonization method was applied to pathologically altered whole chest bones from 40 deceased laying hens of various ages, obtained from registered farms. Their bone and cartilage parts were stained in different colors, red and blue, respectively. The stained chest bones were embedded in polymer blocks using UV-resistant epoxy resin (Elan-tech® EC 1150/W 1150, ELANTA Europe), without the use of a vacuum environment for resin impregnation prior to embedding. The diaphonized objects represented three-dimensional models with clearly distinguishable, color-coded bone (red) and cartilage (blue) structures. Their embedding in epoxy resin proceeded smoothly - in the absence of strong exothermic reaction, until polymerization completion, and without the formation of gas bubbles. This greatly contributed to a better visualization of the three-dimensional structure of the damaged bones, which, after their application in the polymer, did not exhibit technological deformations and optical changes. The polymer blocks containing the specimens exhibited excellent transparency and were highly instructive, making them convenient not only for educational purposes but also for scientific research and museum exhibits. The permanent preparations made using this method are characterized by good mechanical strength, resistance to UV rays, and absence of odor. The specimens obtained are suitable for demonstration purposes, do not require specific storage conditions, and are applicable in all fields of scientific research and education.

EVALUATION OF THE CASTS OBTAINED FROM THE RABBIT'S BRONCHIAL TREE AFTER FILLING WITH ADDITIVE SILICONE ELASTOMER
Tsandev Nikolay¹, Sarova Pamela², Vodenicharov Angel^1
1Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
²Student of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

The aims of this study were to investigate the possibility of filling the lumen of the rabbit's bronchial tree with additive silicone elastomer, and the suitability of the specimens for use in training and scientific research. An additive silicone elastomer (Perfect-F Light Premium-set, Type 3, Han Dae Chemical-Korea) with increased hydrophilicity and low viscosity was used, introduced manually using a specialized tool (gun) through the trachea to fill the bronchial tree. After the elastomer solidified, corrosion was applied using a 15% potassium hydroxide solution for 24 hours until complete maceration of the soft tissues, after which the casts were rinsed with slow-flowing water, dried, and mounted on suitable stands. The resulting three-dimensional models were accurate replicas of all parts of both sections of the bronchial tree: the conducting and respiratory zones, including the alveoli. The casts represent, down to the smallest detail, all components of the bronchial tree, exhibit significant mechanical strength, retain the color of the elastomer used, and emit no odor. The methodology is quickly executable, does not require special technological conditions, and is relatively inexpensive. The casts obtained are suitable for demonstrating the bronchial tree in specialist training. They do not require specific storage conditions and are suitable for all areas of teaching and scientific research.

 EVALUATING STUDENT PERCEPTION OF SILICONE PLASTINATED CATTLE BRAIN SLICES FOR NEUROANATOMY EDUCATION
Yunus Hasen Awel¹, Batur Barış¹, Bakıcı Caner¹, Ekim Okan¹, Çakır Ahmet¹, Tunalı Selçuk^2
1Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Ankara, Türkiye ²Tobb University of Economics and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Ankara, Türkiye

Plastination is a method used to preserve biological materials for educational, training, and research purposes, employing various polymers, with silicone polymer being one of them. Silicone plastination stands out as the most versatile technique, applicable to cadavers, whole bodies, or organs, as well as portions or slices. This study aimed to produce cattle brain slices using the silicone plastination method and to assess the effectiveness of these brain slices in both face-to-face and online neuroanatomy instruction. The preparation of the specimen, slicing, dehydration, impregnation, and curing were the steps used in this process. After dissection, the two brains were sliced at 4 mm thickness using an electric food slicing machine. A 20% gelatin solution was used for easy sectioning. The sliced brain packs were cooled to 2 °C and transferred to cooled (-18 °C) pure acetone. The measured acetone concentration at the third bath was 98.8%. The dehydrated brain slices were then submerged in the cold (-25 °C) S10B silicone polymer mixture. Forced vacuum impregnation took place at room temperature, which was completed in 6 days. The curing of the impregnated samples was done at room temperature by exposing the impregnated specimens to a gaseous hardener (Biodur® S6). A total of 108 volunteer students evaluated the plastinates face-to-face, and 131 students evaluated the plastinates online. It took five weeks to plastinate the brain slices. Before and after plastination, the anatomical structure and color of the slices were nearly identical. Upon evaluation gained from students, the anatomical structures and gray and white matter present in transversely sectioned slices were relatively more evident in plastinated slices with silicone than in non-plastinated slices. The transversally sliced and silicone-plastinated brain specimens have the potential to be extremely helpful educational aids for neuroanatomical classes.