Abstract: Minimally invasive facial procedures are widely performed in clinical medicine but re-main associated with severe complications such as necrosis or blindness, often resulting from insufficient anatomical understanding and limited procedural training. To address these challenges, this study developed an anatomically accurate clinical simulator for fa-cial injection training. A three-dimensional polygonal facial model was constructed using standardized anatomical datasets reflecting skeletal dimensions, soft tissue characteris-tics and the average arterial distribution of East Asian faces. This model was integrated into simulation software connected to a facial silicone dummy with realistic tissue texture and an optical tracking system providing sub-millimeter precision. Each anatomical structure, including muscles, vessels and nerves, was digitally annotated and linked to interactive visualization tools. During training, the simulator simultaneously reflected the real-time needle trajectory and insertion depth; when the needle tip approached a high-risk structure, such as the supraorbital artery, alerts were automatically triggered. This feedback enabled trainees to recognize unsafe injection zones and adjust their tech-nique accordingly. The system provided a realistic, repeatable and safe environment for improving anatomical comprehension and procedural accuracy. This study proposes an innovative applied simulation system that may enhance medical education and clinical safety in facial injection procedures.

Abstract: Intervertebral disc (IVD), the largest avascular structure in the human body, contains nucleus pulposus (NP) cells that generate an abundant quantity of lactate from anaerobic glycolysis as an adaptation to hypoxia. Historically, IVD lactate was viewed as a metabolic toxic byproduct necessitating clearance to maintain IVD health. This is because accumulation of lactic acid, the protonated form of lactate, acidifies the IVD microenvironment, impairs cell viability, disrupts extracellular matrix integrity, and promotes degeneration. However, recent studies discovered that lactate serves as an important IVD biofuel in a process known as lactate-dependent metabolic symbiosis in which lactate produced by NP is shuttled into cells of the neighboring annulus fibrosus (AF), and cartilage endplate (CEP) to be metabolized via the tricarboxylic acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation to generate ATP and amino acids to maintain IVD matrix homeostasis. Additionally, lactate is found to function as a signaling molecule and epigenetic regulator in IVD: it regulates transcription via histone lactylation that modulates ferroptosis and other cell fate decisions. Lactate also modulates senescence, apoptosis, and inflammatory responses through pathways such as Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) in IVD and other organs. This review synthesizes current knowledge on lactate production, transport, and clearance in the IVD along with the emerging roles of lactate in IVD health and pathophysiology. The review also provides research perspectives and directions aimed at advancing our understanding of lactate biology and evaluating its potential as a therapeutic target for treating intervertebral disc degeneration.

Abstract: Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a respiratory pathology primarily linked to smoking, appears to exacerbate oral health problems through systemic and local mechanisms. This study evaluates the impact of COPD on the oral health of smoking patients in an Algerian context.​Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2023 at the University Hospital Center of Sidi Bel Abbès, Algeria. A total of 138 male smoking patients were included. Each participant answered a standardized questionnaire, underwent a thorough clinical oral examination, and spirometry to confirm the diagnosis of COPD (FEV/FVC < 0.7 post-bronchodilator).​Results: Out of 138 patients, 62 (44.9%) had confirmed COPD. Tooth loss was significantly more frequent among COPD patients (88.7%) than among non-COPD patients (77.6%, p = 0.03). Dental caries were also more prevalent in the COPD group (85.5%) compared to the non-COPD group (70.1%, p = 0.02). Gum disease (93.5% vs. 91.3%, p = 0.65) and bad breath (79.0% vs. 76.0%, p = 0.70) showed similar prevalences in both groups.​Conclusion: COPD is associated with a significant deterioration of oral health, particularly regarding tooth loss and dental caries. A multidisciplinary management approach involving pulmonologists and dentists is crucial to improve clinical outcomes and patient quality of life.

Abstract: The skin-to-transverse process distance (st) correlates with the skin-to-dural sac depth (d) and may be used to estimate optimal angles for perpendicular needle insertion using the formula: inverse cosine d/√(1 + d²), as outlined in free visual guides. Objective: To analyze the relationship between the transverse process and dural sac depth at lumbar levels relevant to spinal anesthesia, and to determine the range of planes where a perpendicular paramedian needle insertion is feasible when midline access is not viable. Methods: Ten ex vivo trunks were flexed using an abdominal support, and CT scans were performed. Correlations between the transverse process and dural sac depth were evaluated from L3 to S1. Perpendicular planes at the level of needle paths were examined at L3-L4 and L4-L5. Median path viability was assessed. Results: The transverse process aligned with the dorsal dural sac at L3, the posterior third at L4, and the middle zone at L5-S1. Median needle insertion was not viable in 20–30% of L4-L5 and L3-L4 levels, respectively. However, paramedian access was possible. The vertical range of viable paramedian planes was 8.7 ± 2.9 mm (L4–L5) and 7.9 ± 1.9 mm (L3–L4). Coronal reconstructions showed that the upper level of the transverse process correlates with the skin-perpendicular planes where insertion is likely to succeed. Conclusion: Many elderly spines lack viable midline paths. The superior aspect of the transverse process serves as a useful landmark for estimating dural sac depth, calculating paramedian angles, and identifying the plane for successful perpendicular needle insertion.

Abstract: The incorporation of artificial intelligence into medical pedagogy necessitates a thorough appraisal, especially within fundamental disciplines like anatomy, where accurate understanding is paramount. The efficacy of advanced AI systems, specifically Large Language Models like ChatGPT, in the acquisition and retention of specialized medical knowledge continues to be an active area of research and evaluation. This cross-sectional study was undertaken in August 2025, to evaluate the proficiency of ChatGPT in responding to multiple-choice questions within basic medical sciences, with a particular emphasis on the domain of anatomy. A compilation of 124 meticulously selected multiple choice questions from the mid-term and final examinations administered to first-year medical students, was utilized; Anatomy (28), Histology (23), Microbiology (21), Pathology (33) and Physiology (19). Strict criteria applied to ensure questions were unambiguously framed as single-best-answer items. Paper of each discipline was submitted to ChatGPT, and initial response considered definitive. Performance was scored on a binary scale and analyzed descriptively. Results revealed high accuracy, with ChatGPT answering 96% Anatomy questions correctly, 100% Histology and Physiology, Pathology 97% and Microbiology 95%, achieving an overall accuracy of 98%. The results indicate a substantial capacity for ChatGPT to serve as a valuable pedagogical resource for reinforcing knowledge and facilitating self-evaluation.

Abstract: Exposure to hypoxia may cause lung injury characterized by hydrostatic pulmonary edema (PE), inflammation and oxidative stress. Norepinephrine (NE) infusion can also induce lung injury with similar pathogenetic characteristics. The main questions of this study were (i) whether NE infusion aggravates hypoxia-induced pulmonary injury; (ii) whether inflammation and oxidative stress deteriorate the hypoxic PE; (iii) whether PE and inflammation recede after three days of normoxic recovery. Ninety-eight female rats were exposed for 72 h to normoxia or normobaric hypoxia and received infusions with NaCl or NE. Some of these animals were transferred to a three-day normoxic recovery period thereafter. We performed histological and immunohistochemical analyses of the lung, determined protein concentrations in pleural fluid (PF) and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and evaluated hemodynamic parameters. While inflammation and oxidative stress receded after 3 days of normoxic recovery, PE did not resolve. Increased protein concentrations in PF and BALF indicated that capillary stress failure increased even further during the normoxic recovery phase, in particular in animals that had previously received NE infusion. These results highlight the fact that inflammation does not play a causal role in the development of hypoxic PE.

Abstract: Coagulation, although primarily regulated by platelets, endothelial cells, and clotting factors, can also be influenced by molecules that are not traditionally seen as related to coagulation, including cytokines, hormones, metabolites, reactive oxygen species, acute phase reactants, and more. Here, we derive pseudoserum or clotting factor-depleted fractions from control, type II diabetes mellitus, and Long COVID platelet-poor plasma (PPP) samples, and expose them to purified, exogenous fibrinogen obtained from healthy donors. Thrombin-induced fibrin networks were then formed and visualized using light and scanning electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that pseudoserum can greatly influence the organisation, density, and ultrastructure of fibrin networks formed from purified fibrinogen, emphasizing the role of non-clotting factors in fibrin formation. Fibrin networks formed from purified fibrinogen exposed to control pseudoserum appear homogeneous, exhibiting organized architecture with few regions of unusual density or aggregates, whereas the networks formed using patient pseudoserum show disorganisation, regions of density, fibre-like strands, and anomalous aggregates. These abnormalities are also observed in patient PPP samples, suggesting that fibrin network characteristics in PPP samples are also significantly influenced by non-clotting factors and are somewhat independent of endogenous fibrinogen. The ability of pseudoserum to drive these changes, despite the absence of endogenous fibrinogen and other classical clotting factors, suggests that soluble molecules retained in pseudoserum can directly modify fibrinogen’s structural conformation and functionality, influence thrombin-mediated fibrin formation and polymerization, and/or impact Factor XIII’s crosslinking capabilities. This study provides a systems-level perspective on the influence of pseudoserum on fibrin networks and highlights the potential of serum and other clotting factor–depleted fractions to yield deeper mechanistic and diagnostic insights into coagulation.

Abstract: Background: Injectable gels used in aesthetic medicine serve multiple functions, in-cluding wrinkle correction, volume restoration, and facial enhancement. Understanding their microscopic morphology is essential for predicting tissue integration and clinical outcomes. The aim of this study is to analyze the microscopic morphology of various gels currently used in aesthetic medicine and their association with tissue behavior after implantation. Materials and Methods: Six injectable gels were analyzed: cross-linked and non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, agarose gel, collagen, calcium hydroxyapatite with hyaluronic acid (HA), and multicomponent formulations with collagen precursors. A smear of each material was prepared on glass slides, air-dried, and stained with Diff-Quick. Morphological analysis was carried out using optical microscopy and mi-crophotographic documentation. Results: Each filler material displayed distinct mi-croscopic morphology corresponding to its composition, with unique and reproducible structural characteristics identifiable across samples. Discussion: The structural fea-tures observed in each gel may be useful for predicting their integration and behavior in dermal tissues. In cases of adverse effects, microscopic identification can assist in rec-ognizing materials not documented in patient records. Conclusions: Morphological characterization is fundamental to better understand the in-tissue behavior of filler materials. Greater scientific attention to microscopic study of injectable gels may im-prove both safety and efficacy and help resolve complications related to unknown or undocumented materials.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: A thorough understanding of spinal anatomy is essential for diagnostic assessment and surgical intervention. Interspinous distance (ISD), neuroforaminal dimensions (NFDs), and disc space height (DSH) have each been studied separately; however, their interrelationship remains unstudied. Given the use of interspinous implants as a minimally invasive treatment for lumbar stenosis and degenerative disc disease, defining these relationships is of growing clinical significance. This study investigates the correlation between ISD and both NFDs and DSH in a normative population and whether ISD varies with demographic factors. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 852 patients who underwent CT imaging of the lumbar spine. ISD was measured from L1 to L5 as the shortest distance between the most caudal tip of the superior spinous process and the inferior spinous process. DSH was measured at the anterior, middle, and posterior margins. NFDs were assessed in axial and sagittal views, including axial width, craniocaudal height, and foraminal area. Statistical analysis assessed correlations between ISD, NFDs, DSH, and demographic variables. Results: No strong correlation was observed between ISD and either NFDs or DSH. Slightly greater correlation was present at L1–L3, weakening at L4–L5, where interspinous implants are most commonly placed. Demographic analysis revealed no consistent relationship between ISD and ethnicity, sex, or BMI. While it may be expected that larger ISD correlates with greater NFDs or DSH, our findings do not support this assumption. Conclusions: ISD does not strongly correlate with NFDs or DSH, and demographic factors do not significantly influence ISD in a healthy population.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Previous research has demonstrated that the perception of self-motion, as signaled by cervical proprioception, is significantly altered during neck muscle fatigue, while no similar effects are observed when self-motion is signaled by the vestibular system. Given that in typical natural movements, both proprioceptive and vestibular signals are activated simultaneously, this study sought to investigate whether the misperception of motion persists during neck muscle fatigue when both proprioceptive and vestibular stimulation are present. Methods: The study evaluated the gain of the perceptual responses to symmetric yaw sinusoidal head rotations on a stationary trunk during visual target localization tasks across different rotational frequencies. In addition, the final localization error of the visual target was assessed following asymmetric sinusoidal head rotations with differing half-cycle velocities. Results: The findings indicated that even with combined proprioceptive and vestibular stimulation, self-motion perceptual responses under neck muscle fatigue showed a pronounced reduction in the gain at low-frequency stimuli and a notable increase in localization error following asymmetric rotations. Notably, spatial localization error was observed to persist after asymmetric stimulation conditioning in the light. Additionally, even moderate levels of muscle fatigue were found to result in increased self-motion misperception. Conclusions: This study suggests that neck muscle fatigue can disrupt spatial orientation, even when the vestibular system is activated, so that slow movements are inaccurately perceived. This highlights the potential risks associated with neck muscle fatigue in daily activities that demand precise spatial perception.

Abstract: The azygos lobe (AL), an additional lung lobe most commonly found in the right apical lung region, is a rare anatomical variant present in approximately 1% of the population. It is embryological in origin and may form if the azygos vein fails to migrate medially over the lung. While it is normally clinically silent, it can have surgical and clinical implications. An AL can be the source of infection or disease, such as squamous cell carcinoma, and can also compress the upper lobe and lead to obstruction, infarction, and necrotic tissue. Additionally, it can present as an unforeseen surgical obstacle, specifically during a thoracotomy, and can be mistaken for a thoracic mass on radiographic imaging, potentially leading to unnecessary interventions.

Abstract: Hamstring injuries are among the most frequent musculoskeletal issues in football, particularly in young athletes during phases of high training load and return-to-play. This study investigated the effects of a 6-week eccentric hamstring training program on sprint performance and neuromuscular control in university-level football players from the csu ase football team. Eighteen male student-athletes (age 20–23 years) with a history of grade ii hamstring strain in the previous season were randomly allocated to an intervention group (eccentric training + standard rehab) or a control group (standard rehab only). Performance metrics included 30-meter sprint time, isokinetic hamstring strength, and surface emg data from the biceps femoris and semitendinosus muscles during maximal voluntary contractions. Post-intervention, the eccentric group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in sprint time (–5.4%, p < 0.01) and hamstring torque output (+14.8%, p < 0.01), with concurrent increases in emg peak amplitude and improved bilateral muscle symmetry. These findings suggest that structured eccentric loading can effectively enhance neuromuscular function and sport-specific performance in student football athletes undergoing post-injury rehabilitation.

Abstract: The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a heterogeneous and complex limbic forebrain structure, which plays an important role in drug addiction and anxiety. Dynorphin and kappa opioid receptors (DYN/KOR) is a crucial neural system involved in modulating stress-induced drug and alcohol addiction. Previous studies have highlighted the BNST as a brain region with a strong DYN/KOR expression. However, no research has been done on the adolescent plasticity of this system. In the present study we used 20- and 60-day-old Wistar rats to reveal the adolescent dynamics and possible sex differences of the DYN/KOR system in certain BNST nuclei associated with addiction behavior. We found a low expression of DYN in neuronal perikarya and a significant increase in DYN-containing nerve fibers in the lateral posterior and lateral dorsal nuclei of the rat BNST. In addition, an enhanced expression of KORs was observed in the examined BNST subnuclei with some sex differences favoring females, thus highlighting the importance of considering critical developmental differences between sexes in research. The dynamics of the DYN/KOR system observed in this study may help to explain the increased vulnerability of adolescents for developing drug and alcohol addiction.

Abstract: Objectives: Torus mandibularis (TM) is a benign bony exostosis on the lingual surface of the mandible, typically developing from the third decade of life with slow progression. Its etiology remains unclear. As TM excision causes no functional or aesthetic deficits, its use as autologous bone graft material (e.g., for pre-implant or sinus lift augmentation) has been suggested. This study investigates the prevalence and expression of TM in a southern German population with regard to age and gender. Additionally, it examines whether TM undergoes dynamic changes over time. The hypothesis is that TM may show temporal growth. Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis of CBCT scans from 210 randomly selected patients (105 males, 105 females) was performed. Patients were divided into three age groups (≤40, 41–60, ≥61 years; 70 per group). TM was measured using OsiriX MD. For the longitudinal study, 146 CBCTs from 73 patients were compared over intervals of 2–9 years. Surface changes were assessed via 3D overlay using GOM Inspect. Results: TM was found in 30.5% of patients. Prevalence was significantly higher in males (38%) than females (23%). No age-related differences were identified. Most TMs measured <2 mm (n=51); only five exceeded this size. No dynamic growth was observed over time. Conclusion and Clinical Implications: TM is a common anatomical variant, more frequently detected by 3D imaging than clinical examination. In most cases, size remains minimal (<2 mm), limiting its clinical use as augmentation material to rare individual cases.

Abstract: Background: The field of facial aesthetics in Canada and the United States has seen significant growth, driven by societal acceptance, technological advancements, and a desire for self-enhancement. The region’s diverse demographic, with projections indicating over 50% non-Caucasian populations in the U.S. and 33% people of color in Canada by 2036, necessitates tailored aesthetic practices that respect ethnic variations in anatomy and beauty ideals. Historically, aesthetic procedures focused on Caucasian patients, often applying Westernized standards that may yield unnatural results in diverse populations. This review synthesizes evidence on facial aesthetic practices, emphasizing cultural competence, patient expectations, satisfaction, psychological impacts, and ethical considerations in multicultural North America.Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for peer-reviewed articles published primarily from 2015 to 2025. Keywords included "facial aesthetics," "multicultural populations," "ethnic beauty ideals," "surgical aesthetics," "non-surgical aesthetics," "patient satisfaction," "cultural competence," "Canada," and "United States." Inclusion criteria prioritized studies on diverse patient groups in these regions, clinical outcomes, and ethical practices. Data were extracted on anatomical variations, treatment techniques, efficacy, safety, patient-reported outcomes, and psychological impacts, then synthesized to identify trends and gaps.Results: Findings highlight significant ethnic variations in facial anatomy (e.g., skin characteristics, nasal morphology, periorbital features) and aesthetic preferences, necessitating customized surgical (e.g., rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty) and non-surgical (e.g., dermal fillers, botulinum toxin) interventions. High satisfaction is reported when cultural identity is preserved, though risks like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in skin of color require specialized techniques. Psychological benefits include improved self-esteem, but Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) prevalence (3–53%) poses ethical challenges. Cultural competence is critical to align treatments with diverse beauty ideals and manage expectations influenced by social media.Conclusions: Successful facial aesthetic practice in multicultural North America requires a deep understanding of ethnic anatomical differences, culturally sensitive techniques, and robust psychological screening to address BDD and unrealistic expectations. Research gaps, particularly for Black, Latinx, and Indigenous populations, underscore the need for inclusive studies to ensure equitable, evidence-based care. Continuous adaptation and ethical vigilance are essential for practitioners to deliver harmonious, satisfying outcomes that respect patients’ cultural identities.

Abstract: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by cycles of decreased blood oxygen saturation followed by reoxygenation due to transient apnea. Cognitive dysfunction is a complication of OSAS, but its mechanisms remain unclear. 8-week-old C57BL/6J mice were exposed to intermittent hypoxia (IH) to model OSAS, and cognitive function and hippocampal gene expression were analyzed. Three groups were maintained for 28 days: IH group (oxygen alternating between 10–21% in 2-minute cycles, 8 hours/day), sustained hypoxia group (SH) (10% oxygen, 8 hours/day), and control group (21% oxygen). Behavioral tests and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis was performed. While Y-maze test results showed no differences, the IH group demonstrated impaired memory and learning in passive avoidance tests compared to control and SH groups. RNA-seq revealed specific changes in learning/memory-related genes and oxidative stress response genes in the IH group. RT-qPCR showed decreased Lars2, Hmcn1, and Vstm2l expression in the IH group. Pathway analysis showed the suppression of the KEAP1-NFE2L2 antioxidant pathway in the IH group vs. SH group. Our findings demonstrate that IH may cause cognitive dysfunction through oxidative stress and suppressed antioxidant defenses. IH-specific downregulation of Lars2, Hmcn1, and Vstm2l may contribute to OSAS-related cognitive impairment.

Abstract: The human body operates through complex bioelectrical systems, with the heart, brain, and gastrointestinal tract each generating distinct electrical signals. While Electrocardiography (ECG) and Electroencephalography (EEG) have long served as essential diagnostic tools, Electroenterography (EEnG) remains underutilized due to methodological challenges. Recent advances in systems physiology suggest that these three organs may not function in isolation but rather interact through a shared bioelectrical framework. In this review, we introduce the concept of the Tri-Electrical Axis - a proposed integrative network reflecting synchronized electrophysiological activity across the cardiac, cerebral, and enteric systems. We also tentatively define a central point of interaction within this axis as the Belviranli Junction, representing a novel physiological nexus. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into this framework holds promise for decoding complex multi-organ patterns, enabling real-time systemic monitoring and advancing precision diagnostics. This work synthesizes current literature, identifies critical gaps, and offers a forward-looking perspective on how multi-organ bioelectrical integration, supported by AI, may reshape future medical diagnostics and physiological understanding.

Abstract: Wound healing is a critically essential but complex process requiring intense or prolonged medical intervention to achieve positive clinical outcomes. In addition, the increasing prevalence of chronic nonhealing wounds places a significant burden on a patient’s quality of life and a sizeable financial strain on healthcare providers, especially as the treatment options are limited. This research aimed to fabricate multifunctional antimicrobial nanocomposite fibers with enhanced mechanical properties to facilitate wound healing and reduce microbial infection. We used a patented electrodeposition process to coat magnesium (MgO) on the halloysite (HNT) outer surface. Using the solution blow spinning technique, nanocomposite fibers were spun as a square (4 in X 4 in) onto sterile gauze. Material characterization was used to confirm the presence of MgO on the HNT outer surface. Antimicrobial activity was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The effects of nanocomposite fiber on human fibroblast cell response were also evaluated. An in vitro wound healing assay assessed the wound healing potential of the MgO/HNT composite fibers. SEM images revealed the presence of Mg on the HNT surface, which Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy confirmed. Cytotoxicity tests demonstrated that the composite fibers were non-toxic to mammalian cells. Cell proliferation assays showed that Si3N4 enhanced proliferation. The nanocomposite fibers also promoted cell migration into an in vitro “mechanical wound” created by the scratch assay.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: The male prepuce that covers the glans penis is richly innervated by low-threshold mechanoreceptors, that form cutaneous end-organ complexes (Meissner corpuscles and Pacinian corpuscles) and mucous end-organ complexes (Krause and Krause-like corpuscles). The mechanosensory inputs from these formations are the beginning for spinal reflexes that regulate movements of intercourse and erection and therefore are required for sexual function. The study was aimed at analyzing the age-dependent changes in prepuce innervation. Methods: Here we used immunohistochemistry to investigate whether the innervation of the male prepuce undergoes age-dependent changes, analyzing subjects aged 4 months to 61 years. Results: Abundant Meissner corpuscles and Krause-like corpuscles were regularly found whose morphology, size, and topography were variable and were not correlated with age.; also, scarce Ruffini’s and Pacinian corpuscles were observed. The earliest evidence of Meissner corpuscles was observed at 4 months, and thereafter they undergo significant age-dependent variations in density. Until the age of 20 years increases progressively, remains stable until 40 years, and then the density decreases. Meissner's corpuscle index paralleled that of density. Regarding Kause-like already resemble the skin of 4-month-old subjects and from the age of 3 years they can be identified at all ages. Its density significantly increased until 10 years and then remained stable. Conclusions: Present results state that the mechanosensory innervation of the human foreskin reaches its maximum value around the age of 20, remains stable during adulthood and decreases with maturity. These findings contribute to a more complete understanding of foreskin innervation and add to the scientific knowledge base surrounding the potential harm of removing a richly innervated structure.

Abstract: Background: The lateral angle of the internal acoustic meatus of the petrous bone is a sexually dimorphic feature used for sex determination, particularly in fragmented or cremated remains. However, studies show conflicting results regarding its accuracy, and the reasons for its dimorphism remain unclear. The aim of this study is to analyze sexual dimorphism in subadult individuals and to examine the association of the lateral angle with cranial breadth as an explanation for its sexual dimorphism, as well as interpopulation differences. Methods: We measured the lateral angle and biauricular breadth in 204 individuals (birth to 30 years) using CT scans from Austrian 19th-century anatomical collections and data of the New Mexico Decedent Image Database. Results: The study revealed that the sexual dimorphism of the lateral angle and cranial dimensions will manifest during puberty, along with a strong association between the lateral angle and the biauricular breadth. Additionally, the study noted inter-population variability in cranial breadth, with different levels of sexual dimorphism observed across diverse populations. Conclusion: The findings offer a potential explanation for the observed variability in lateral angle measurements across studies and the limitations of universal cutoff points as a sex determination method in osteology.