Setting the morphologic quality limits enabling accurate classification of charred archaeological grape seeds.

This study investigates the morphological changes in grape pips resulting from various charring conditions. Employing high-resolution scanning combined with morphometric measurements for morphological analysis, we aimed to understand the effects of charring on grape pips. Our morphometric analysis demonstrated significant alterations in seed shape above 250 °C. The length-width ratio and the occurrence of cracks notably changed, providing a basis for assessing charring conditions. In addition, applying a machine learning classification method, we determined that accurate classification of grape varieties by the morphometric analysis method is feasible for seeds charred at up to 250 °C and 8 h. Integrating the morphometric changes and temperature ranges suitable for classification, we developed a sorting model for archaeological seeds. By projecting length-width ratios onto a curve calculated from controlled conditions, we estimated charring temperatures. Approximately 50% of archaeological seeds deviated from the model, indicating drastic charring conditions. This sorting model facilitates a stringent selection of seeds fit for classification, enhancing the accuracy of our machine learning-based methodology. In conclusion, combining machine learning with morphometric sorting enables the identification of charred grape seeds suitable for identification by the morphometric method. This comprehensive approach provides a valuable tool for future research for the identification of charred grape seeds found in archaeological contexts, enhancing our understanding of ancient viticulture practices and grape cultivation.

Changes in human skin composition due to intrinsic aging: a histologic and morphometric study.

Skin represents the main barrier against the external environment, but also plays a role in human relations, as one of the prime determinants of beauty, resulting in a high consumer demand for skincare-related pharmaceutical products. Given the importance of skin aging in both medical and social spheres, the present research aims to characterize microscopic changes in human skin composition due to intrinsic aging (as opposed to aging influenced by external factors) via histological analysis of a photoprotected body region. Samples from 25 autopsies were taken from the periumbilical area and classified into four age groups: group 1 (0-12 years), group 2 (13-25 years), group 3 (26-54 years), and group 4 (≥ 55 years). Different traditional histological (hematoxylin-eosin, Masson's trichrome, orcein, toluidine, Alcian blue, and Feulgen reaction) and immunohistochemical (CK20, CD1a, Ki67, and CD31) stains were performed. A total of 1879 images photographed with a Leica DM3000 optical microscope were morphometrically analyzed using Image ProPlus 7.0 for further statistical analysis with GraphPad 9.0. Our results showed a reduction in epidermis thickness, interdigitation and mitotic indexes, while melanocyte count was raised. Papillary but not reticular dermis showed increased thickness with aging. Specifically, in the papillary layer mast cells and glycosaminoglycans were expanded, whereas the reticular dermis displayed a diminution in glycosaminoglycans and elastic fibers. Moreover, total cellularity and vascularization of both dermises were diminished with aging. This morphometric analysis of photoprotected areas reveals that intrinsic aging significantly influences human skin composition. This study paves the way for further research into the molecular basis underpinning these alterations, and into potential antiaging strategies.

Effect of Curcuma longa maceration treatment on ovarian follicular development, serum oestradiol, uterine growth and vascularisation in female albino rats.

Introduction: Curcuma longa is a well-known medicinal plant with various health benefits. This study was designed to evaluate the administration of Indonesian C. longa maceration for its effect on promoting growth and development of the ovary and uterus before mating in female albino rats. Material and Methods: A total of 15 female Sprague Dawley rats in their dioestrous phase were assigned into three different groups: the Control group (mineral water); the Cur-Low group (mineral water with 1% C. longa maceration) and the Cur-High group (mineral water with 5% C. longa maceration). The treatments were given for 20 days. Serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone, oestradiol and progesterone were determined. After the sacrifice of the rats, ovary and uterine relative weight, uterine cornua diameter and length, uterine gland diameter (by histology), the number of primary, secondary, tertiary, and Graafian follicles, the number of corpora lutea and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in the ovary were measured. Uterine vascularisation was also evaluated. Results: Administration of C. longa maceration significantly improved the relative weights of the uterus and ovary; uterine cornua diameter, length and vascularisation; uterine gland diameter; and expression of VEGF in the ovary. It also increased the number of tertiary follicles and corpora lutea, albeit not significantly. Follicle-stimulating hormone serum concentrations were lower in the administered rats. Conclusion: Oestradiol and progesterone levels rose with C. longa maceration treatment. The maceration improved the reproductive organs of unmated rats and had potential to optimise the uterine environment for supporting pregnancy in order to produce high-quality offspring.

Association of podocyte ultrastructural changes with proteinuria and pathological classification in type 2 diabetic nephropathy.

AIMS: Podocyte injury plays an essential role in the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The associations between the ultrastructural changes of podocyte with proteinuria and the pathological classification of DN proposed by Renal Pathology Society (RPS) have not been clarified in patients with type 2 diabetic nephropathy (T2DN). METHODS: We collected 110 patients with kidney biopsy-confirmed T2DN at Peking University First Hospital from 2017 to 2022. The morphometric analysis on the podocyte foot process width (FPW) and podocyte detachment (PD) as markers of podocyte injury was performed, and the correlations between the ultrastructural changes of podocytes with severity of proteinuria and the RPS pathological classification of DN were analyzed. RESULTS: Mean FPW was significantly broader in the group of T2DN patients with nephrotic proteinuria (565.1 nm) than those with microalbuminuria (437.4 nm) or overt proteinuria (494.6 nm). The cut-off value of FPW (> 506 nm) could differentiate nephrotic proteinuria from non-nephrotic proteinuria with a sensitivity of 75.3% and a specificity of 75.8%. Percentage of PD was significantly higher in group of nephrotic proteinuria (3.2%) than that in microalbuminuria (0%) or overt proteinuria (0.2%). FPW and PD significantly correlated with proteinuria in T2DN (r = 0.473, p < 0.001 and r = 0.656, P < 0.001). FPW and PD correlated with RPS pathological classification of T2DN (r = 0.179, P = 0.014 and r = 0.250, P = 0.001). FPW value was increased significantly with more severe DN classification (P for trend =0.007). The percentage of PD tended to increase with more severe DN classification (P for trend = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: Podocyte injury, characterized by FPW broadening and PD, was associated with the severity of proteinuria and the pathological classification of DN.

An assessment of microplastic contamination in beach sediment of Maharashtra State, India, with special reference to anthropogenic activities.

The escalating issue of microplastic (MP) pollution poses a significant threat to the marine environment due to increasing plastic production and improper waste management. The current investigation was aimed at quantifying the MP concentration on 25 beaches on the Maharashtra coast, India. Beach sediments (1 kg) were collected from each site, with five replicates to evaluate the extent of MPs. The samples were homogenized, and three 20 g replicas were prepared for subsequent analysis. Later, the samples were sieved, and MPs were extracted using previously published protocols. The abundance of MPs found as 1.56 ± 0.79 MPs/g, ranges from 0.43 ± 0.07 to 3 ± 0.37 MPs/g. Fibers were found as the most abundant shape of MPs. Size-wise classification revealed dominance of <1 mm and 1-2 mm-sized MPs. Blue- and black-colored MPs were recorded dominantly. Polymer identification of MPs revealed polyurethane, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic or polymethyl methacrylate, and rubber. The findings revealed that MPs were found to be higher at highly impacted sites, followed by moderately impacted sites and low-impacted sites, possibly due to a different degree of anthropogenic pressure. The study recommended the urgent need for effective policy to prevent plastics accumulation in the coastal environment of Maharashtra State, India. PRACTITIONER POINTS: The study investigated the abundance and distribution of microplastics in the marine environment, specifically in sediments. The most common type of microplastic found was fibers, followed by fragments and films. Microplastics were found to pose a potential risk to the marine ecosystem, although further research is needed to fully understand their ecological impact. Future research should focus on expanding the sample size, assessing long-term effects, exploring sources and pathways, and considering size and shape of microplastics. The findings recommended urgent action to mitigate plastic pollution in Maharashtra coast.

High-molecular-weight Hyaluronan Administration Inhibits Bone Resorption and Promotes Bone Formation in Young-age Osteoporosis Rats.

Osteoporosis poses a significant global health concern, affecting both the elderly and young individuals, including athletes. Despite the development of numerous antiosteoporotic drugs, addressing the unique needs of young osteoporosis patients remains challenging. This study focuses on young rats subjected to ovariectomy (OVX) to explore the impact of high-molecular-weight hyaluronan (HA) on preventing OVX-induced osteoporosis. Twenty-four rats underwent OVX, while 12 underwent sham procedures (sham control group). Among the OVX rats, half received subcutaneous injections of HA (MW: 2700 kDa) at 10 mg/kg/week into their backs (OVX-HA group), whereas the other half received saline injections (0.5 ml/week) at the same site (OVX-saline group). OVX-HA group exhibited significantly higher percentages of osteoclast surface (Oc. S/BS), osteoblast surface per bone surface (Ob. S/BS), and bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV) compared with OVX-saline group at the same age. The proportions of Ob. S/BS and BV/TV in the OVX-HA group closely resembled those of the sham control group, whereas the proportion of Oc. S/BS in the OVX-HA group was notably higher than that in the sham control group. In summary, the administration of HA significantly mitigated bone resorption and enhanced bone formation, suggesting a crucial role for HA in the treatment of young adult osteoporosis.

Evaluation of MRI post-processing methods combined with PET in detecting focal cortical dysplasia lesions for patients with MRI-negative epilepsy.

OBJECTIVE: Accurate detection of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a pivotal role in the preoperative assessment of epilepsy. The integration of multimodal imaging has demonstrated substantial value in both diagnosing FCD and devising effective surgical strategies. This study aimed to enhance MRI post-processing by incorporating positron emission tomography (PET) analysis. We sought to compare the diagnostic efficacy of diverse image post-processing methodologies in patients presenting MRI-negative FCD. METHODS: In this retrospective investigation, we assembled a cohort of patients with negative preoperative MRI results. T1-weighted volumetric sequences were subjected to morphometric analysis program (MAP) and composite parametric map (CPM) post-processing techniques. We independently co-registered images derived from various methods with PET scans. The alignment was subsequently evaluated, and its correlation was correlated with postoperative seizure outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 41 patients were enrolled in the study. In the PET-MAP(p = 0.0189) and PET-CPM(p = 0.00041) groups, compared with the non-overlap group, the overlap group significantly associated with better postoperative outcomes. In PET(p = 0.234), CPM(p = 0.686) and MAP(p = 0.672), there is no statistical significance between overlap and seizure-free outcomes. The sensitivity of using the CPM alone outperformed the MAP (0.65 vs 0.46). The use of PET-CPM demonstrated superior sensitivity (0.96), positive predictive value (0.83), and negative predictive value (0.91), whereas the MAP displayed superior specificity (0.71). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggested a superiority in sensitivity of CPM in detecting potential FCD lesions compared to MAP, especially when it is used in combination with PET for diagnosis of MRI-negative epilepsy patients. Moreover, we confirmed the superiority of synergizing metabolic imaging (PET) with quantitative maps derived from structural imaging (MAP or CPM) to enhance the identification of subtle epileptogenic zones (EZs). This study serves to illuminate the potential of integrated multimodal techniques in advancing our capability to pinpoint elusive pathological features in epilepsy cases.

Combined effect of polystyrene nanoplastic and di-n-butyl phthalate on testicular health of male Swiss albino mice: analysis of sperm-related parameters and potential toxic effects.

Plastics, especially polystyrene nanoplastic particles (PSNPs), are known for their durability and absorption properties, allowing them to interact with environmental pollutants such as di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP). Previous research has highlighted the potential of these particles as carriers for various pollutants, emphasizing the need to understand their environmental impact comprehensively. This study focuses on the subchronic exposure of male Swiss albino mice to PSNP and DBP, aiming to investigate their reproductive toxicity between these pollutants in mammalian models. The primary objective of this study is to examine the reproductive toxicity resulting from simultaneous exposure to PSNP and DBP in male Swiss albino mice. The study aims to analyze sperm parameters, measure antioxidant enzyme activity, and conduct histopathological and morphometric examinations of the testis. By investigating the individual and combined effects of PSNP and DBP, the study seeks to gain insights into their impact on the reproductive profile of male mice, emphasizing potential synergistic interactions between these environmental pollutants. Male Swiss albino mice were subjected to subchronic exposure (60 days) of PSNP (0.2 mg/m, 50 nm size) and DBP (900 mg/kg bw), both individually and in combination. Various parameters, including sperm parameters, antioxidant enzyme activity, histopathological changes, and morphometric characteristics of the testis, were evaluated. The Johnsen scoring system and histomorphometric parameters were employed for a comprehensive assessment of spermatogenesis and testicular structure. The study revealed non-lethal effects within the tested doses of PSNP and DBP alone and in combination, showing reductions in body weight gain and testis weight compared to the control. Individual exposures and the combination group exhibited adverse effects on sperm parameters, with the combination exposure demonstrating more severe outcomes. Structural abnormalities, including vascular congestion, Leydig cell hyperplasia, and the extensive congestion in tunica albuginea along with both ST and Leydig cell damage, were observed in the testis, underscoring the reproductive toxicity potential of PSNP and DBP. The Johnsen scoring system and histomorphometric parameters confirmed these findings, providing interconnected results aligning with observed structural abnormalities. The study concludes that simultaneous exposure to PSNP and DBP induces reproductive toxicity in male Swiss albino mice. The combination of these environmental pollutants leads to more severe disruptions in sperm parameters, testicular structure, and antioxidant defense mechanisms compared to individual exposures. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding the interactive mechanisms between different environmental pollutants and their collective impact on male reproductive health. The use of the Johnsen scoring system and histomorphometric parameters provides a comprehensive evaluation of spermatogenesis and testicular structure, contributing valuable insights to the field of environmental toxicology.

Computer-Assisted Morphometric Comparative Analysis of Argyrophilic Nucleolar Organizer Regions (AgNORs) in Leukoplakia With Dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Background Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral leukoplakia (OL) with dysplasia are closely linked conditions in the oral cavity, with the latter often indicating precancerous changes, underscoring the urgency of early detection and intervention. Histopathological confirmation is crucial for accurate diagnosis. The nucleolar organizer region (NOR), specifically analyzed through silver-staining (argyrophilic NORs), provides insights into nuclear changes associated with the lesion. Computer-assisted morphometric analysis enhances precision and objectivity in evaluating AgNOR-related parameters. Aim To conduct a computer-assisted morphometric comparison of AgNORs using various NOR-related parameters in cases of OSCC and leukoplakia with dysplasia and to evaluate their diagnostic significance. Materials and methods A computer-assisted morphometric analysis was conducted using various NOR-related parameters, such as nuclear profile area, single AgNOR profile area per nucleus, total AgNOR profile area per nucleus, and number of AgNOR profiles per nucleus on a total sample of 90 specimens, which includes leukoplakia with dysplasia (30), OSCC (30), and a control group, including 30 samples of normal oral mucosa. A comparison was conducted on the morphometric values between the groups under investigation. Tukey's multiple comparison tests and ANOVA were used to analyze the data and determine the differences between the groups. Results The present investigation revealed a significant difference in all four AgNOR-related parameters between leukoplakia and OSCC in comparison to the control group (normal oral mucosa). Comparing OL (41.78 ± 0.46) and OSCC (62.78 ± 0.47) to the control group (35.93 ± 0.99), the mean value of nuclear profile area (A Nuc) was significantly greater. In comparison to the control group (3.40 ± 0.09), the mean value of a single AgNOR profile area per nucleus (A NOR) was found to be relatively lower in both research groups, OL (2.00 ± 0.02) and OSCC (1.39 ± 0.01). The total AgNOR profile area per nucleus (TA NOR) had a mean value of 10.61 ± 0.69 in OL and 12.05 ± 0.28 in OSCC, respectively, compared to 7.82 ± 0.38 in the control group. The study found that there was more number of profiles of AgNORs per nucleus (n NOR) in the study groups of OL (5.30 ± 0.29) and OSCC (8.69 ± 0.19) than in the control group (2.32 ± 0.11). Conclusion The parameters linked to the NOR are biologically informative and easy to check regularly in a pathology lab. Additionally, AgNORs give us important information that enables us to study the range of nuclear changes in malignant and potentially malignant lesions.

Morphometric Evaluation of Sutural Patterns at the Pterion and Asterion in Dry Indian Skulls: Surgical Relevance.

INTRODUCTION: The pterion and asterion serve as crucial landmarks on the skull, representing the antero-lateral and postero-lateral fontanelles in neonates, respectively. In clinical practice, these points play a pivotal role in guiding the understanding of deeper structures and their relationships to the head's surface. The thin calvarium at these junctures is susceptible to fractures, and the underlying vessels are prone to tear, often leading to extradural hematoma formation, necessitating burr hole surgery for evacuation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved 40 human dry skulls in Indians (n= 27 male (10.8%), n= 13 female (5.2%)) of unknown age, evaluating morphometric characteristics of 80 pterions and asterions. Measurements were conducted using a digital caliper (SKADIOO±0.2mm/0.01") in millimeters on both sides of each skull. The investigation also included an examination of sutural patterns in Pterion and asterion. RESULTS: Three types of sutural patterns were identified in the pterion, the most common being the sphenoparietal variety (75% on the right, 70% on the left), followed by the epipteric variety, which was the second most common (11.3% on the right, 12.5% on the left), and then the frontotemporal type (1.3% on the right, 2.5% on the left). Two sutural patterns were observed in the asterion: type 1 (presence of sutural bone) in 17.9% of skulls and type 2 (absence of sutural bone) in 82.1%. CONCLUSION: The differences in pterion and asterion positions across various populations explored in previous studies motivated us to conduct this research in the Indian population. Our findings revealed that among Indians, the predominant pterion type is predominantly sphenoparietal, whereas type 2 is the most prevalent in asterion. Understanding the clinical significance of the pterion and asterion is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure precise and safe surgical procedures, particularly for the effective treatment of head trauma patients.

The Distribution of Boars Spermatozoa in Morphometrically Distinct Subpopulations after In Vitro Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation at 2500 MHz and Their Motility.

Anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) from wireless technologies has increased dramatically. The boar semen used for artificial insemination is essential in sustaining the pig industry, and additionally it is also exposed to the effects of the RF-EMR of wireless technologies. Furthermore, there are no data on the effects of RF-EMR on semen quality, and this is the first analysis of sperm's morphometric parameters for assessing the effect of RF-EMR on the spermatozoa subpopulations of boars. This study investigated the effect of RF-EMR on in vitro exposed breeding boar semen spermatozoa motility and the proportions of spermatozoa subpopulations according to their morphometric head and tail parameters. The semen samples of 12 boars were divided into control and experimental groups. The samples in the experimental group were exposed in a gigahertz transverse electromagnetic chamber at a frequency of 2500 MHz (the frequency band used in 5G technology) and an electric field strength of 10 Vm-1 for two hours. After exposure, the spermatozoa motility was evaluated for both groups. A morphometric analysis of the semen smears was performed using SFORM software (Version 1.0; VAMS, Zagreb, Croatia). The progressive spermatozoa motility was significantly reduced in the experimental group (74.7% vs. 85.7%). PC analysis and cluster analysis revealed two spermatozoa subpopulations: S1, spermatozoa with a more regular head shape and a smaller midpiece outline, and S2, spermatozoa with a more elongated head shape and a larger midpiece outline. The experimental semen samples had a greater proportion of the S1 spermatozoa subpopulation (68.2% vs. 64.4%). The effect of RF-EMR at 2500 MHz on the in vitro exposed boar semen resulted in decreased progressive spermatozoa motility and a lower proportion of the spermatozoa subpopulation with a higher fertilizing potential.

Three-dimensional modelling and morphometric analysis of skull of badger (Meles meles) with computed tomography images.

BACKGROUND: Morphometric measurements help to understand the skull morphology in different animal species, detect skull deformations and figure out their causes. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to make a three-dimensional (3D) modelling of the badger skull using computed tomography, to show its anatomical structures and to reveal the morphometric measurement values. METHODS: Skull measurements were carried out using a digital calliper at 27 measurement points based on metric measurement points. After the scanned images were stored in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine format, they were transferred to MIMICS 20.1 (The Materialize Group) programme and 3D models the skulls were created. The surface area and volume values of the skulls were calculated on these models. RESULTS: The volume and surface area parameters were expressed as mean ± SE. Four different indices were calculated using osteometric measurements. Statistical analyses were made by determining the mean value and standard deviation of the examined properties and the correlation coefficients among these properties. In the metric measurement points taken as a basis, the longest measurement in the skulls was the total length and its mean value was 124.60 ± 0.64 mm. The shortest measurement was the breadth dorsal to the external auditory meatus, and its mean value was 6.75 ± 0.24 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Consequently, statistical differences in the craniometric values of badgers' skulls were determined by using CT and 3D modelling software. In addition, it was concluded that the badger skull can be easily distinguished from other carnivore species by carrying out morphometric measurements.

Morphometric analysis for determination of larval instars in Dermestes frischii Kugelann and Dermestes undulatus Brahm (Coleoptera: Dermestidae).

Dermestes frischii Kugelann, 1792 and Dermestes undulatus Brahm, 1790 are the most abundant species worldwide at outdoor or indoor crime scenes during the dry and skeletal stages of decomposition. The attribution of larval age in these beetles is problematic due to the variable number of instars, which is influenced by environmental factors. In this study, a morphometric approach was used to look for potential morphological features as evidence of larval stages. Breeding and monitoring were performed for both species in an incubator with a preset temperature of 28°C ± 0.5 without a photoperiod. Morphometric measurements were made on 10 larvae per instar for each species using length, width, and thickness parameters. Linear discriminant analysis was then used to generate decision boundaries that clearly separated larval stages. The cross-validation procedure demonstrated that the morphometric approach successfully discriminated adjacent larval stages in both species with high values of sensitivity and specificity. This less-invasive approach could improve the ability to estimate minPMI in forensic studies of Dermestidae beetles. Future studies may extend this approach to other species and establish good practices for collecting and storing specimens for morphometric analysis.

Differentiating BRAF V600E- and RAS-like alterations in encapsulated follicular patterned tumors through histologic features: a validation study.

Differentiating BRAF V600E- and RAS-altered encapsulated follicular-patterned thyroid tumors based on morphology remains challenging. This study aimed to validate an 8-score scale nuclear scoring system and investigate the importance of nuclear pseudoinclusions (NPIs) in aiding this differentiation. A cohort of 44 encapsulated follicular-patterned tumors with varying degrees of nuclear atypia and confirmed BRAF V600E or RAS alterations was studied. Nuclear parameters (area, diameter, and optical density) were analyzed using a deep learning model. Twelve pathologists from eight Asian countries visually assessed 22 cases after excluding the cases with any papillae. Eight nuclear features were applied, yielding a semi-quantitative score from 0 to 24. A threshold score of 14 was used to distinguish between RAS- and BRAF V600E-altered tumors. BRAF V600E-altered tumors typically demonstrated higher nuclear scores and notable morphometric alterations. Specifically, the nuclear area and diameter were significantly larger, and nuclear optical density was much lower compared to RAS-altered tumors. Observer accuracy varied, with two pathologists correctly identifying genotype of all cases. Observers were categorized into proficiency groups, with the highest group maintaining consistent accuracy across both evaluation methods. The lower group showed a significant improvement in accuracy upon utilizing the 8-score scale nuclear scoring system, with notably increased sensitivity and negative predictive value in BRAF V600E tumor detection. BRAF V600E-altered tumors had higher median total nuclear scores. Detailed reevaluation revealed NPIs in all BRAF V600E-altered cases, but in only 2 of 14 RAS-altered cases. These results could significantly assist pathologists, particularly those not specializing in thyroid pathology, in making a more accurate diagnosis.

Morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum in the Peruvian population.

Background: The foramen magnum, as an anatomical structure, holds clinical and functional significance due to its strategic location in the craniovertebral transition. A detailed understanding of its dimensions and shapes is crucial for better comprehension of related pathologies and for enhancing neurosurgical techniques within a specific population. The objective is to measure precise morphometric reference points of the foramen magnum in individuals of Peruvian ancestry, aiming to establish specific anatomical patterns and potential variations within this population. Methods: The study was conducted on 17 unidentified skulls donated to the NeuroZone3D Research Center, utilizing an inelastic and soft measuring tape as the tool. Our report considered direct anthropometric measurement techniques with data collection performed by a single researcher. Results: Distinct morphometric characteristics were observed in the foramen magnum of the Peruvian population compared to other studies. The average measurements of the skull base revealed a foramen magnum with a mean length of 33.80 mm and a width of 28.70 mm, along with right condyles measuring 25 mm in length and 14.10 mm in width, and left condyles measuring 23.80 mm in length and 13.90 mm in width. Conclusion: The morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum in the Peruvian population provides valuable insights into specific anatomical features within this ethnic group. These findings could have significant implications across various medical and surgical disciplines, from interpreting diagnostic images to designing more precise therapeutic interventions tailored to this population.

Protocol of Geometric Morphometrics for Teratogenicity Testing.

Geometric morphometrics (GM) enables a quantitative study of shapes and forms allowing the identification and characterization of teratogenic malformations. The GM methodology offers several advantages in comparison to traditional biometric methods, such as higher detail and precision analysis. In this chapter, we describe the recent application of the Procrustes method with ImageJ and MorphoJ programs in the characterization of developmental malformations. With this methodology, we are a step closer to being able to assign molecular pathways or unique signatures to a specific teratogen according to the produced phenotypes or to cluster unknown compounds.

Patterns of Leaf and Fruit Morphological Variation in Marginal Populations of Acer tataricum L. subsp. tataricum.

Marginal populations are usually smaller and more isolated and grow in less favourable conditions than those at the distribution centre. The variability of these populations is of high importance, as it can support the adaptations needed for the conditions that they grow in. In this research, the morphological variability of eight Tatar maple (Acer tataricum L. subsp. tataricum) populations was analysed. Tatar maple is an insect-pollinated and wind-dispersed shrub/tree, whose northwestern distribution edge is in southeastern Europe. Morphometric methods were used to analyse the variability of the populations using leaf and fruit morphology. The research revealed significant differences between and within populations. Furthermore, differences in the distribution of the total variability were noted, which suggest that different evolutionarily factors affect different plant traits. Correlation analysis confirmed a weak dependency between the vegetative and generative traits. In addition, no evidence was found for the presence of isolation by environment (IBE). However, the Mantel test for isolation by distance (IBD) was significant for the leaf morphometric traits and non-significant for the fruit morphometric traits. Being the marginal leading-edge populations, they are younger and were less likely to have had time for adaptation to local environments, which would have resulted in the development of IBE. Overall, edge populations of Tatar maple were characterised by great morphological variability, which helps these populations in their response to the intensive selective pressures they face in their environment.

Morphometric Analyses of Macrophages.

Cell morphology and motility drive the cellular capabilities to interact with the environment. For example, microglia, the longest known tissue-resident macrophages, show a highly branched process tree with which they continuously scan their environment. Computational image analysis allows to quantify morphology and/or motility from images of tissue-resident macrophages. Here, I describe a step-by-step protocol for analyzing the morphology (and motility) of macrophages with our recently described, freely available software MotiQ, which provides a broad band of parameters and thereby serves as a versatile tool for studies of morphology and motility.

Rhynchosporamesoatlantica (Cyperaceae), an imperiled new species of beaksedge from eastern U.S.A.

Rhynchosporamesoatlanticasp. nov. (Cyperaceae) is described, illustrated, and compared with morphologically similar species. Rhynchosporamesoatlantica is known only from southern Delaware, southeastern Maryland, and southern New Jersey, all within the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S.A. It inhabits sunny, wet margins of natural, shallow, nutrient-poor, seasonal ponds of the Coastal Plain. Narrow leaf blades; fruits obpyriform in outline; faces of mature fruits possessing a central, pale, well-demarcated disk; and fruit tubercle margins denticulate for most of their lengths indicate R.mesoatlantica is most similar to R.filifolia and R.harperi. Rhynchosporamesoatlantica is unique in its fruit dimensions, scales intermediate in length between R.filifolia and R.harperi, and relatively long fruit stipe. The NatureServe rank of Critically Imperiled and the IUCN rank of Endangered appear warranted for R.mesoatlantica because only six populations are known to be extant, most quite small and isolated; all populations occur within a small geographic area; populations have declined; and serious threats confront the survival of the species.

Association Between Gender, Age, and Skeletal Class With Mandibular Condyle Morphology: A Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the impact of demographic variables on mandibular condyle morphology, a critical factor in orthodontic treatment and maxillofacial surgery. The investigation focuses on the relationship between gender, age, and skeletal class with the morphological dimensions of the condyle, utilizing panoramic radiography as a diagnostic tool. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 150 panoramic radiographs from individuals stratified into six groups according to gender and skeletal class. Skeletal classes were determined using Steiner and McNamara cephalometry. The Kodak Carestream software (Rochester, NY: Carestream Health) was employed to measure condylar height, width, and morphology. Statistical evaluations included ANOVA, correlation assessments, and multivariate binary logistic regression to discern the differences and associations among the variables studied. RESULTS: The findings revealed notable differences in condylar dimensions between genders across different skeletal classes, with males typically presenting larger condylar dimensions than females. The data also showed a moderate positive correlation between condyle height and width. Round-shaped condyles were the most common form found, with significant gender differences observed in certain skeletal classes. Additionally, logistic regression analysis identified significant associations between gender, age, and condylar width and shape. CONCLUSIONS: The study concludes that demographic factors, such as gender and age, significantly affect mandibular condyle morphology. These factors should be carefully considered in clinical evaluations using panoramic radiography to enhance the precision of diagnoses and the effectiveness of subsequent orthodontic and maxillofacial treatments. The results provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals in regions where more advanced imaging techniques may not be readily available.