Biomechanical functions analysis of the Mallard webbed foot: A study of macroscopic and microscopic material assembly and tendon morphology

The mallard webbed foot represents an exemplary model of biomechanical efficiency in avian locomotion. This study delves into the intricate material assembly and tendon morphology of the mallard webbed foot, employing both macroscopic and microscopic analyses. Through histological slices and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we scrutinized the coupling assembly of rigid and flexible materials such as skin, tendon, and bone, while elucidating the biomechanical functions of tendons across various segments of the tarsometatarsophalangeal joint (TMTPJ). The histological examination unveiled a complex structural hierarchy extending from the external integument to the skeletal framework. Notably, the bone architecture, characterized by compact bone and honeycombed trabeculae, showcases a harmonious blend of strength and lightweight design. Tendons, traversing the phalangeal periphery, surrounded by elastic fibers, collagen fibers, and fat tissue. Fat chambers beneath the phalanx, filled with adipocytes, provide effective buffering, enabling the phalanx to withstand gravity, provide support, and facilitate locomotion. Furthermore, SEM analysis provided insights into the intricate morphology and arrangement of collagen fiber bundles within tendons. Flexor tendons in proximal and middle TMTPJ segments adopt a wavy-type, facilitating energy storage and release during weight-bearing activities. In contrast, distal TMTPJ flexor tendons assume a linear-type, emphasizing force transmission across phalangeal interfaces. Similarly, extensor tendons demonstrate segment-specific arrangements tailored to their respective biomechanical roles, with wavy-type in proximal and distal segments for energy modulation and linear-type in middle segments for enhanced force transmission and tear resistance. Overall, our findings offer a comprehensive understanding of the mallard webbed foot's biomechanical prowess, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between material composition, tendon morphology, and locomotor functionality. This study not only enriches our knowledge of avian biomechanics but also provides valuable insights for biomimetic design and tissue engineering endeavors.

Effects of Plantar Fascia Release and the Use of Foot Orthoses Affect Biomechanics of the Medial Longitudinal Arch of the Foot: A Cadaveric Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of minimally invasive ultrasound-guided fascial release and a foot orthoses with first metatarsal head cutout on the biomechanics of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot in cadaveric specimens.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was designed (20 body donors). Anthropometric measurements of the foot, foot posture index, and the windlass test and force were measured in different conditions: unloaded, loaded position, with foot orthoses, after a 25% plantar fascia release and after a 50% release.

RESULTS

For the anthropometric measurements of the foot, differences were found in foot length ( P = 0.009), arch height ( P < 0.001), and midfoot width ( P = 0.019) when comparing the unloaded versus foot orthoses condition. When foot orthoses were compared with 25% plantar fascial release, differences were found in foot length ( P = 0.014) and arch height ( P < 0.001). In the comparison with 50% plantar fascial release, differences were found in the arch height ( P < 0.001). A significant interaction between foot orthoses condition and grades was found in the arch height during the windlass test ( P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that the presence of foot orthoses leads to a significant increase in arch height compared with other conditions. Furthermore, when plantar fascia release is performed, the arch does not exhibit any signs of collapse.

Inter-observer variation of head and foot point selection for subject height determination

The purpose of this study was to examine factors affecting video analysts' decisions in marking the vertex of the head and foot point and corresponding inter-observer marking variances when conducting height analysis on individuals seen in video. Nineteen video analysts participated in an exercise at the 2022 Ontario Forensic Video Analysts' Association (OFVAA) conference where they were asked to mark the vertex of the head and a corresponding foot point of a "suspect" on extracted video frames in a variety of positions and with different headwear (no headwear, baseball cap, and hoodie). A height scale with discrete marking points located at the same positions as where the suspect was positioned was also included in a separate image set, offering a comparison to the suspect. Marked points for all analysts were overlayed onto the respective image frame for visual observations. Summary statistics were used for data interpretation. This study demonstrated that factors such as the suspect's proximity to the camera and suspect's headwear affected the variability and range of marking, which has a direct correlation to the estimated height of the suspect. In general, when the region to be marked was larger, the variability was also larger. This study also demonstrates that marking errors were significantly reduced when discrete marking locations were present such as on a height scale. The average percentage difference of height was most notable, approximately 3%, when the suspect was wearing a hoodie and was at a position closest to the camera. The range of the percentage difference was also the highest at this position, which was 10.6%. In comparison, the height scale had a maximum percent height difference of 0.6% at position D-5, the furthest position from the camera. The range at this location was approximately 2%, which was also the highest range value for the height scale. Future studies should consider suspect posture and look at how these errors may be minimized by examining the best locations to mark the head and foot points under different scenarios.

Impact of foot progression angle on spatiotemporal and plantar loading pattern in intoeing children during gait

Intoeing in children is a common parental concern, but our understanding of the impact of foot progression angle (FPA) in these children leaves remains limited. This study examines the relationship between FPA and plantar loading pattern, as well as gait symmetry in children with intoeing. The sample included 30 children with intoeing caused by internal tibial torsion, uniformly divided into three groups: unilateral intoeing, bilateral mild intoeing, and bilateral mild-moderate intoeing. The relationship between FPA and plantar loading pattern, and gait symmetry within and among groups were assessed using dynamic pedobarographic and spatiotemporal data. Results indicated a significant correlation between FPA and peak pressure, maximum force, and plantar impulse in the medial and central forefoot, and also the medial and lateral heel zones for both bilateral intoeing groups. Significant differences were observed only in subdivided stance phase, including loading response, single support, and pre-swing phases, between the unilateral intoeing and bilateral mild intoeing groups. These findings suggest that FPA significantly affects the forefoot and heel zones, potentially increasing the load on the support structures and leading to transverse arch deformation. While children with intoeing demonstrate a dynamic self-adjustment capability to maintain gait symmetry, this ability begins to falter as intoeing becomes more pronounced.

Recommendation of minimal distal tibial length for long axis coordinate system definitions

Accurate anatomical coordinate systems for the foot and ankle are critical for interpreting their complex biomechanics. The tibial superior-inferior axis is crucial for analyzing joint kinematics, influencing bone motion analysis during gait using CT imaging and biplane fluoroscopy. However, the lack of consensus on how to define the tibial axis has led to variability in research, hindering generalizability. Even as advanced imaging techniques evolve, including biplane fluoroscopy and weightbearing CT, there exist limitations to imaging the entire foot together with the full length of the tibia. These limitations highlight the need to refine axis definitions. This study investigated various superior-inferior axes using multiple distal tibia lengths to determine the minimal field of view for representing the full tibia long-axis. Twenty human cadaver tibias were imaged and segmented to generate 3D bone models. Axes were calculated based on coordinate definitions that required user manual input, and a gold standard mean superior-inferior axis was calculated based on the population's principal component analysis axis. Four manually calculated superior-inferior tibial axes groups were established based on landmarks and geometric fittings. Statistical analysis revealed that geometrically fitting a cylinder 1.5 times the mediolateral tibial width, starting 5 cm above the tibial plafond, yielded the smallest angular deviation from the gold standard. From these findings, we recommend a minimum field of view that includes 1.5 times the mediolateral tibial width, starting 5 cm above the tibial plafond for tibial long-axis definitions. Implementing these findings will help improve foot and ankle research generalizability and impact clinical decisions.

Radiological measurements of the feet of normal Straight Egyptian Arabian horses in Qatar

The Arabian horse has been identified as carrying a risk locus for equine metabolic syndrome, predisposing this breed to development of laminitis. Radigraphy of the equine foot is widely considered the main diagnostic imaging technique for evaluation of the laminitic horse. Knowledge of 'normal' breed values allows assessment of the degree and severity of radiological changes associated with laminitis. The objective of this study was to investigate the normal values for radiological measurements of the feet of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse in Qatar. The design was a clinical prospective study. Radiographs of the fore and hind feet of 10 clinically normal adult Straight Egyptian Arabian horses were taken. On the lateromedial views, 17 measurements were taken (13 distances and four angles). On the horizontal dorsopalmar/plantar views, two measurements were taken. On the dorsal 45 degree, proximo-palmarodistal oblique projections, four measurements were taken. Normal reference ranges were reported for radiological measurements of the feet of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse. Several variables showed significant differences between fore and hind feet, including hoof angle, distal wall thickness, and two proximal inner layer measurements (p < 0.05). In addition, the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse was found to have a number of measurements which varied from previously published reports. The results reported within provide a useful reference for normal radiographic measurements of the Straight Egyptian Arabian horse with relevance for laminitis.

An exploratory in-situ dynamic mechanical analysis on the shearing stress-strain mechanism of human plantar soft tissue

A DMA (dynamic mechanical analysis)-like device based on the principle of classical viscoelasticity testing is invented to investigate the in-situ/in-vivo shear-bearing mechanism of plantar soft tissue. Forty-three volunteers were recruited for the shear-strain test in the longitudinal and transverse directions at five anatomical spots on the plantar surface. Several encouraging observations indicated significant variances among different spots and individuals, implying that the outer forefoot surrounding the second, fifth metatarsal head is a more intensive shear-bearing region on the plantar surface compared to the inner forefoot under the first metatarsal head, and drawing the hypothesis of a significant effect of BMI on the shear-bearing property. The speculations agree with our expectations and other previous research. The feasibility and practical value of this novel approach are substantiated, and these intriguing discoveries provide foundational underpinnings for further in-depth investigations.

The importance of assessing the ghosting phenomenon in dynamic footprints when estimating stature - Forensic implications

In cases where multiple footprints are found at a crime scene, it is unusual that all are static, and some are likely dynamic. Depending on how the footprint was made, we distinguish between dynamic and static footprints. A distinguishing feature that has only recently been associated with dynamic footprints is the fact that dynamic footprints differ from static footprints by the presence of additional markings around the back of the heel and the tops of the toe prints, the so-called ghosting phenomenon. The present study aims to analyse the ghosting phenomenon on dynamic footprints - its occurrence in relation to sex, laterality, and different areas of footprints as well as length features. Additionally, it aims to investigate the assessment of the ghosting phenomenon on dynamic footprints when estimating stature for biological profiling in the forensic field. The study sample comprised of 170 young adults aged 18 - 30 years of both biological sexes. Stature was measured and dynamic footprints were obtained where the ghosting phenomenon was analysed together with length measurements of the same footprint with and without ghosting. In the first and second toes of footprints, the ghosting phenomenon occurred most frequently in both sexes and in the sex-mixed group. Sex differences were not significant in ghosting occurrence on right and left footprints (p > 0.05), except for the area of the left fifth toe (p = 0.045). All the footprints' lengths with ghosting were significantly higher (p < 0.001) than those without ghosting. Statures calculated from footprint length measurements with ghosting predicted stature more accurately than statures calculated from the same footprint length measurements without ghosting. In the case of finding dynamic footprints at crime scenes, it is necessary to correctly identify and evaluate ghosting of the footprint. This comparison can be helpful in interpreting how ghosting should be taken into account when estimating a person's stature.

Forensic measurement comparison of foot insole impressions

In forensic podiatry, footprints have been shown to provide a valuable source of discriminatory information. Footprints may be found in various forms, such as bare footprints, sock-clad footprints, or as impressions on insoles within footwear. This study utilized quantitative measures of foot impressions on pairs of insoles from shoes worn by the same person from a population of 31 adults. The measurements were determined by using the Reel method and comprised measurements from the heel to the tips of the toes and width of the ball. The purpose of the study was to assess the margin of error for these measurements to determine whether they were sufficiently accurate for forensic use. A secondary purpose of this study was to determine whether the analyst's experience or lack thereof in forensic podiatry had an impact on the precision of measurement data. The insole foot impressions were assessed by two podiatrists with forensic podiatry experience in footprint analysis, footprint research, and in using the Reel method of footprint measurement, as well as by three students of podiatric medicine without any such experience. A statistical analysis of the data from the study was performed using SPSS v28 (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 28.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp). The most reliable measurements were of forefoot width, heel to first toe, heel to second toe, and heel to fourth toe. The greatest variation occurred in the measurements of the heel to the third and fifth toes. The measurements of the forensic podiatrist analysts showed less variability than those of the podiatry students, suggesting that measurement precision is related to the experience of the analyst.

Evaluation of Foot Structure in Preschool Children Based on Body Mass

BACKGROUND The human foot has a complex structure and the ligamentous and muscular apparatus undergoes transformation and adaptation during its ontogenetic development. Excessive body mass may be one of the factors disrupting proper foot formation. This study aimed to assess the foot structure in preschool children in relation to body mass. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 105 children aged 6.27±0.60 years were examined. Height, weight, and segmental body composition were determined using the Tanita MC-780 body composition analyzer. The foot structure was assessed using the Kasperczyk method, supplemented with digital analysis using the Podoscan 2D camera. The Weisflog index and gamma angle for feet were calculated. Children were divided into 2 groups: children in Group I did not have foot deformities and those in Group II had foot deformities. RESULTS No correlation was observed between body mass and the occurrence of anomalies in foot structure. A correlation was noted between the Weisflog index for the right foot and height in both groups. The Weisflog index for both feet was correlated with BMI, with higher values obtained for the left foot in both groups. In Group II, a correlation was observed between the gamma angle value for the left foot and the predicted muscle mass for the right lower limb, as well as between the same foot and the predicted muscle mass for the left lower limb. CONCLUSIONS No correlation was observed between high BMI and the occurrence of anomalies in foot structure. A relationship was identified between muscle mass and foot structure.

The effect of hallux valgus on the anatomy of the nerves around the first metatarsal bone

OBJECTIVE

To identify the variations in the location of the nerves that may be at risk in hallux valgus (HV) surgery, and to reveal whether these nerves are affected by the anatomical changes associated with HV.

METHOD

In the formalin fixed, 46 lower extremities (19 female, 27 male) (9 normal, 14 mild HV, 21 moderate/severe HV), extensor hallucis longus tendon (EHL), deep plantar artery, medial dorsal cutaneous (MDCN), deep fibular (DFN), common plantar digital (CPDN) and proper plantar digital (PPDN) nerves were examined. The branches of MDCN extending to the medial side of foot were recorded in three segments. The positional topography of nerves according to EHL were analyzed on 360° circle and clock models.

RESULTS

Sex-related differences observed in some parameters in direct measurements were not found in the clock model comparisons. In advanced HV angles (> 20°), DFN was closer to EHL in the distal part of the metatarsal bone, while there was no difference in the proximal. The intersection of the medial branch of the MDCN with the EHL was more proximal in HV cases than in normal feet. The location of the nerves in the clock pattern did not change in HV. Of the nerve branches reaching the medial side of the foot, 65.2% were in Part I, 71.7% in Part II, and 4.3% in Part III.

CONCLUSION

Sex differences in the distance of the nerves to the EHL disappeared when the size effect of the cross-section of the first metatarsal bone region was eliminated with the clock model. Only in advanced HVA (>20°) (not in mild HV), the DFN being closer to the EHL distally and the intersection of the medial branch of the MDCN with the EHL in HV being more proximal than in normal can be interpreted as specific reflections of HV progress. The variations we revealed in the number of branches reaching the inside of the foot may explain the diversity of neuromas or nerve injuries associated with HV surgery.

Anatomical analysis of ligaments surrounding calcaneocuboid joint; implications for role in foot stability

PURPOSE

The calcaneocuboid joint is located in the lateral part of the foot and acts as a major stabilizer for the foot. Injuries to this joint often occur in association with ankle or foot injuries and are frequently overlooked, subsequently causing chronic pain or osteoarthritis. However, the relationship between ligaments surrounding the joint and joint instability remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the morphology and position of the ligaments surrounding the calcaneocuboid joint, and to reveal the relationship between the ligament structure.

METHODS

The position and morphology of the bifurcate ligament (subdivided into calcaneonavicular and calcaneocuboid ligaments), dorsal calcaneocuboid ligament, lateral calcaneocuboid ligament, long plantar ligament, and short plantar ligament were measured (N = 11 feet in 6 Japanese cadavers). The circumference of the joint was quartered, while the ligament-uncovered area and the estimated cross-sectional area of each ligament were compared between the four sides. Furthermore, the estimated cross-sectional area of each ligament was calculated as an index for the ligament strength.

RESULTS

The inferolateral side of the calcaneocuboid joint had the most uncovered area (54.63%) by the ligaments. In addition, the cross-sectional area of the ligaments on the lateral side was considerably smaller than that on the medial side.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that ligament weakness on the inferolateral side may cause instability of the calcaneocuboid joint, especially after an inversion sprain injury, and may decrease the lateral longitudinal arch function, which results in chronic foot pain.

Technical note: A volumetric method for measuring the longitudinal arch of human tracks and feet

Fossil footprints (i.e., tracks) were believed to document arch anatomical evolution, although our recent work has shown that track arches record foot kinematics instead. Analyses of track arches can thereby inform the evolution of human locomotion, although quantifying this 3-D aspect of track morphology is difficult. Here, we present a volumetric method for measuring the arches of 3-D models of human tracks and feet, using both Autodesk Maya and Blender software. The method involves generation of a 3-D object that represents the space beneath the longitudinal arch, and measurement of that arch object's geometry and spatial orientation. We provide relevant tools and guidance for users to apply this technique to their own data. We present three case studies to demonstrate potential applications. These include, (1) measuring the arches of static and dynamic human feet, (2) comparing the arches of human tracks with the arches of the feet that made them, and (3) direct comparisons of human track and foot arch morphology throughout simulated track formation. The volumetric measurement tool proved robust for measuring 3-D models of human tracks and feet, in static and dynamic contexts. This tool enables researchers to quantitatively compare arches of fossil hominin tracks, in order to derive biomechanical interpretations from them, and/or offers a different approach for quantifying foot morphology in living humans.

Exploring flatfeet morphology in children aged 6-12 years: relationships with body mass and body height through footprints and three-dimensional measurements

The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between flatfoot morphology and body mass and height in children aged 6-12 years. A total of 6471 Chinese children (mean age 9.0 ± 1.9 years, 41% female) were assessed for foot morphometry, body height, and body mass index. Foot morphology, including foot length, width, girth, arch height, hallux valgus angle, and rearfoot valgus angle, was measured using a 3D laser scanner. Flatfoot evaluations were conducted using the Sztriter-Godunov index (KY) from footprints. All measurements were analyzed by age and sex using the mean values of the left and right sides. Comparisons were performed between flatfoot groups, between body mass index (BMI) groups, and between body height groups. The study revealed a significant decrease in the incidence of bipedal flatfoot with age (p < 0.001), whereas the prevalence of obesity remained consistent (p > 0.05). Bipedal flatfoot was associated with distinct morphological changes, including lower arches, reduced instep height, diminished ankle heights and a greater rearfoot valgus angle (p < 0.05). When comparing the BMI groups, overweight children had larger and thicker feet (p < 0.05), but no differences were found in arch height and ankle height (p > 0.05). When comparing the body height groups, short-statured children had a shorter feet girth, shorter arches, and shorter ankle height (p < 0.05), but no differences were found in the rearfoot valgus angle (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The main characteristics of flat feet include lower arches and instep heights and ankle heights but higher rearfoot valgus angles. In general, overweight children's feet do not have the common features of flat feet. In contrast, short children had similar features of flatfoot except for rearfoot valgus. Assessment of posture, such as rearfoot valgus, can be critical in identifying children with flat feet.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• The morphology of children's feet is associated with body growth, but the relationship between flatfeet and body mass and height remains controversial.

WHAT IS NEW

• Three-dimensional foot measurement shows that body mass is generally not associated with flatfeet, while short children have lower arches but no rearfoot valgus.

Anthropometric Study of Foot Breadth of 5-10 Years Aged Bangladeshi Children

The present anthropometric study was designed to construct data of 5-10 years aged Bangladeshi children regarding foot breadth and an attempt has been made out to grow interest among the researchers for future study and also to compare the data with the data of the people of other races. This cross-sectional, descriptive and analytic type study was conducted among 5-10 years aged 109 Bangladeshi children (70 male and 39 female) at different areas of Mymensingh district (Fulpur, Muktagacha, Fulbaria, Trisal and Haluaghat), Bangladesh from January 2016 to December 2016. Non-random purposive sampling technique was taken for sample collection. Any kind of foot deformity due to either from congenital or physical injury was excluded to construct standard measurement. Foot breadth was measured using slide caliper. The children were asked to stand with weight distributed equally on both feet. The legs were perpendicular to the feet. The mean foot breadth of right side of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 years aged male children were 7.08±.61 cm, 7.11±.30 cm, 7.61±.45 cm, 7.44±.43 cm, 8.12±.38 cm and 8.17±.44 cm respectively and those of female children were 6.55±.64 cm, 7.17±.27 cm, 7.04±.70 cm, 7.62±.54 cm, 7.48±.88 cm and 7.85±.72 cm respectively. The mean foot breadth of left side of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 years aged male children were 7.04±.60 cm, 7.03±.30 cm, 7.52±.47 cm, 7.36±.45 cm, 8.03±.38 cm and 8.08±.43 cm respectively and those of female children were 6.46±.63 cm, 7.10±.31 cm, 6.95±.71 cm, 7.54±.52 cm, 7.37±.89 cm and 7.77±.71 cm respectively. Comparison of foot breadth between male and female children was done by Unpaired Students 't' test and the differences of means were statistically non-significant. Data were tabulated and statistically analyzed using Microsoft excel and SPSS software. The results of present study would be useful in anatomy, orthopedics, forensic science, plastic surgery, radiology, podiatry, archeology, anthropology and nutrition science.

Anatomical Exploration of the KI1 Acupoint: Implications for Medial and Lateral Plantar Nerve Stimulation

Background and Objectives: This study aims to identify the precise anatomical location and therapeutic mechanisms of the KI1 acupoint (Yongquan) in relation to foot muscles and nerves, known for treating neurological disorders and pain. Materials and Methods: Dissection of six cadavers at Chungnam National University College of Medicine examined KI1's relation to the foot's four-layer structure. Results: The KI1 acupoint was located in the superficial and deep layers of the plantar foot, adjacent to significant nerves like the medial and lateral plantar nerves. Differences in the acupoint's exact location between genders were noted, reflecting variances in foot morphology. KI1 acupuncture was found to stimulate the muscle spindles and nerve fibers essential for balance and bipedal locomotion. This stimulation may enhance sensory feedback, potentially improving cognitive functions and balance control. Conclusions: This anatomical insight into KI1 acupuncture underpins its potential in neurological therapies and pain management.

Do the feet of male and female netball players differ in shape? Implications for shoe design

A large proportion of netball players suffer foot-related problems and pain and are dissatisfied with current netball-specific footwear. To improve the fit and functionality of netball-specific shoes, we must understand the shape of these players' feet and determine whether any sex differences exist. Five hundred and two representative-level netball players (n = 251 male; n = 251 female) had their feet three-dimensionally scanned. We then used a validated MATLAB code to automatically extract 10 measurements to characterise each participant's foot shape. Differences between men and women for the absolute values and those normalised to foot length and stature were identified using independent samples t-tests with a Bonferroni adjusted alpha level. The size and shape of male netball players' feet differed significantly from their female counterparts. Males had significantly larger absolute and normalised foot measurements than females, notably at the ball of the foot, heel and instep (p < 0.001). Netball shoe manufacturers should develop unique lasts for each sex and foot size and should offer a more extensive range of shoe lengths and widths to netball players. Such considerations will help optimise shoe fit and comfort and, in turn, reduce foot-related problems and pain associated with ill-fitting footwear.

Fit of fire boots: exploring internal morphology using computed tomography

Fit of fire boots is a crucial factor in the safety and performance of firefighters on the hostile fireground. Firefighters have reported that ill-fitting fire boots restrict their lower body movement and sometimes cause very dangerous situations by falling off behind the wearer. By using computed tomography, this study demonstrates the potential to quantify and visualize the fit of fire boots, which previously relied on subjective feedback from the wearers. The high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) models of two fire boot products allowed a detailed observation and measurement of the internal space of the boots. Also, the boot's internal dimension was compared to the foot measurement of local firefighters, showing the significant differences between the two boots. Lastly, simulation wrapping the 3D scanned foot with the boot revealed large void spaces around the toe box and ankle, as well as the narrower ball width of the boot than the foot.

Morphological variability of the fibularis brevis tendon in human fetuses

INTRODUCTION

The morphological variability of the fibularis brevis tendon in adults is well known. However, studies on its classification in the human fetus do not exist. The aim of this study was to provide the first comprehensive classification of the fibularis brevis tendon based on its insertion in human fetuses. The second aim of the study is to evaluate the prevalence of fibularis digiti quinti.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty-three spontaneously aborted human fetuses were studied (21 male, 22 female, 86 lower limbs). All were from a Central European population), aged 18-38 weeks of gestation at the time of death.

RESULTS

Three main types of fibularis brevis tendon were distinguished. The most common was Type I (77%), characterized by a single distal attachment. The tendon was attached to the tuberosity at the base of the fifth metatarsal, on the lateral side. The second most common was Type II (19%) - a bifurcated distal attachment. The main tendon was attached to the tuberosity at the base of the fifth metatarsal on the lateral side. Based on the attachment site of the accessory tendon, four subtypes were determined: Type IIA - the accessory tendon attached to the dorsal surface of the base of the fifth metatarsal. At the side of attachment, the fibularis brevis tendon was connected with a portion of the fibularis tertius tendon. Type IIB - the accessory tendon attached to the proximal part of the shaft of the fifth metatarsal. Type IIC - the accessory tendon was attached to the fascia covering the fourth interosseous space. Type IID - the accessory tendon was fused with fibularis longus tendon. Type III is the rarest (4%) - triple branched distal attachment. The main tendon was attached to the tuberosity at the base of the fifth metatarsal. The first accessory tendon was attached to the proximal part of the shaft of the fifth metatarsal, and the second accessory tendon was attached to the fascia covering the fourth interosseous space. The fibularis digiti quinti was present in 24 feet (28%) of the 86 lower limbs dissected.

CONCLUSION

The fibularis brevis is characterized by high morphological variability. The proposed classification consists of three main Types (I-III), with Type II divided into subtypes (A-D). The fibularis digiti quinti is not closely related to the type of fibularis brevis tendon.

Tracking 'transitional' diadectomorphs in the earliest Permian of equatorial Pangea

Diadectomorpha was a clade of large-bodied stem-amniotes or possibly early-diverging synapsids that established a successful dynasty of late Carboniferous to late Permian high-fiber herbivores. Aside from their fairly rich record of body fossils, diadectomorphs are also well-known from widely distributed tracks and trackways referred to as Ichniotherium. Here, we provide detailed description of a diadectomorph trackway and a manus-pes couple originating from two different horizons in the Asselian (lowermost Permian) of the Boskovice Basin in the Czech Republic. The specimens represent two distinct ichnotaxa of Ichniotherium, I. cottae and I. sphaerodactylum. Intriguingly, the I. cottae trackway described herein illustrates a 'transitional' stage in the posture evolution of diadectomorphs, showing track morphologies possibly attributable to a Diadectes-like taxon combined with distances between the successive manus and pes imprints similar to those observable in earlier-diverging diadectomorphs, such as Orobates. In addition, this trackway is composed of 14 tracks, including six well-preserved manus-pes couples, and thus represents the most complete record of Ichniotherium cottae described to date from the Asselian strata. In turn, the manus-pes couple, attributed here to I. sphaerodactylum, represents only the second record of this ichnotaxon from the European part of Pangea. Our study adds to the diversity of the ichnological record of Permian tetrapods in the Boskovice Basin which had been essentially unexplored until very recently.

The oldest fossil bird-like footprints from the upper Triassic of southern Africa

Footprint morphology reflects the anatomy of the trackmaker's foot and is direct evidence for the animal's behaviour. Consequently, fossil tracks can be used to infer ancient diversity, ethology, and evolutionary trends. This is particularly useful for deep-time intervals during which the early history of an animal group is reliant upon limited fossil skeletal material. Fossil tracks of early birds and theropods, the co-existing dinosaurian ancestors of birds, co-occur in the rock record since the Early Cretaceous. However, the evolutionary transition from dinosaur to bird and the timing of the birds' origin are still contested. Skeletal remains of the basal-most birds Aurornis, Anchiornis, Archaeopteryx and Xiaotingia are Middle to Late Jurassic, while tracks with tentative bird affinities, attributed to dinosaurs, are known from as early as the Late Triassic. Here, we present numerous, well-provenanced, Late Triassic and Early Jurassic tridactyl tracks from southern Africa, with demonstrable bird-like affinities, predating basal bird body fossils by c. 60 million years.

Morphological and evolutionary insights into the keystone element of the human foot's medial longitudinal arch

The evolution of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) is one of the most impactful adaptations in the hominin foot that emerged with bipedalism. When and how it evolved in the human lineage is still unresolved. Complicating the issue, clinical definitions of flatfoot in living Homo sapiens have not reached a consensus. Here we digitally investigate the navicular morphology of H. sapiens (living, archaeological, and fossil), great apes, and fossil hominins and its correlation with the MLA. A distinctive navicular shape characterises living H. sapiens with adult acquired flexible flatfoot, while the congenital flexible flatfoot exhibits a 'normal' navicular shape. All H. sapiens groups differentiate from great apes independently from variations in the MLA, likely because of bipedalism. Most australopith, H. naledi, and H. floresiensis navicular shapes are closer to those of great apes, which is inconsistent with a human-like MLA and instead might suggest a certain degree of arboreality. Navicular shape of OH 8 and fossil H. sapiens falls within the normal living H. sapiens spectrum of variation of the MLA (including congenital flexible flatfoot and individuals with a well-developed MLA). At the same time, H. neanderthalensis seem to be characterised by a different expression of the MLA.