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Larval settlement and recruitment of sessile organisms are key ecological processes for population recovery and maintenance that occur at scales invisible to the human eye. Accordingly, proxies of recruitment have commonly been quantified using artificial substrata such as settlement tiles made of diverse materials and shapes, which are typically transported to the laboratory for examination. However, it is unknown how much bias is introduced with this sampling strategy and how recruitment quantified on tiles relates to recruitment on nearby natural substrata.Here, we applied techniques that combine macrophotography with photogrammetry (macrophotogrammetry) underwater to monitor benthic communities at submillimetre scale. This application allows the investigation of recruitment and community succession of the earliest life‐history stages in situ and on natural substrata.We tested the use of four different imaging systems, varying in costs from US$ 1400 to US$ 5440. While the most expensive SONY αRiv system provided the best visual output and ground resolution (up to 5 μm/pixel with a + 4 close‐up lens); regardless of systems, 3D models always had a ground resolution ≤23 μm/pixel and errors in planar measurements of submillimetre features were similar among systems. This level of resolution compares well with stereomicroscopy in the range of 5:1 to 10:1 magnification, while providing detailed 3D digital records through time.Using a coral reef example, we apply this approach to demonstrate how it can be used to monitor small reef areas (~300–600 cm2) through time, including the quantification of biophysical metrics such as cover of small facilitative and competitive organisms and microhabitat complexity. We further show that organisms as small 0.5 mm in size, such as 2‐month‐old coral settlers, can be located accurately within the 3D models and measured with a good level of confidence. This method can be readily applied to other benthic environments to elucidate drivers of early recruitment and recovery of benthic organisms following disturbance impacts at very fine scales, directly on natural substrata, to avoid biases inherent with laboratory‐based analyses of artificial surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophotography Images (MPIs) have recently emerged as an active topic due to the development of mobile phone camera technology. A large number of MPIs have been rapidly increasing in many rich visual services, such as smartphones or high‐definition monitors. MPIs are often composed of sharp macroimage and blur background, which exhibit different perceptual properties that often lead to different just noticeable difference (JND) estimation. Inspired by this, we formulate the blur concealment (BC) as another factor to determine the total masking effect: the interaction is relatively straightforward with a limited masking effect in the sharp regions, and is complicated with a strong masking effect in the blur parts. Furthermore, texture and orientation adaption and color information weighting are separately incorporated into the contrast masking and color masking. Finally, considering both BC and masking effects, a novel robust watermarking framework based on the proposed blur‐guided JND model for MPIs, targeting at further improving the MPIs copyright protection performance. Extensive experiments on MP2020 and Blur Detection data sets show that the applicability of the proposed JND model in the scenario of perceptually MPIs watermarking, and our proposed scheme can outperform the state‐of‐the‐art watermarking schemes by providing better robustness performance at the uniform visual quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of mobile phone camera technology, mobile phones can take a large number of macro photography images that previously could only be taken by professional cameras. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the quality of macro photography images. For this reason, a macro photography image visual quality evaluation database is established and it is named as MP2020. The database contains 100 reference images and 800 distorted images of four distortion types, including 200 distorted images of JPEG 2000, 200 distorted images of JPEG, 200 distorted images of white noise, and 200 distorted images of Gaussian blur. The DMOS values in the database were calculated from 48000 data which are provided by 60 subjects. Ten classical image quality assessment algorithms were tested on the MP2020 database. The experimental results show that the existing image quality assessment algorithms, which are widely used, are not applicable to the macro photography images. Therefore, MP2020 would contribute to the improvement of existing algorithms and the development of new algorithms. MP2020 has been uploaded to GitHub for download. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research on the conjunctival crypt structure in the equine third eyelid. Topics include the use of digital macrophotography and an operating microscope to obtain images of the crypt, the observation of lymphoid follicles around the crypt, and the role of a mucosal crypt in the bulbar surface of the third eyelid.

Purpose One of the singularities of the eyes of snakes is the presence of the spectacle, a transparent and vascularized integument covering the cornea. The spectacle is completely renewed during ecdysis. Combined scanning laser ophthalmoscopy ( SLO), optical coherence tomography ( OCT), and conventional macrophotography were used to image this phenomenon. Material and Methods A spectral OCT/ SLO examination and macrophotography were performed in four healthy adult corn snakes ( Pantherophis guttatus) and one healthy adult California king snake ( Lampropeltis getulus californiae) the day before the start of ecdysis and then daily during ecdysis. Results In all animals, ecdysis lasted 5 days. The spectacle was hardly visible at baseline, but became obvious at day one, while the subspectacular space became larger and the superficial cornea presented a hyperechoic band. At day two, eye surface became translucent, and at the same time, vascularization of the spectacle was visible using SLO. At day 3, the vascularization was no longer visible, while the subspectacular space increased and the eye surface remained translucent. At day 4, the eye surface was transparent and the superficial hyperechoic band started to become less bright. At day 5, the old spectacle was shed and all the parameters returned to baseline. Conclusion We hypothesize that the echogenicity modifications of the anterior cornea correspond to major metabolic activity associated with new spectacle formation. This increased metabolic activity may contribute to the neovascularization and play an important role in the accumulation of fluid in the subspectacular space, facilitating the shedding of the old spectacle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focus misses are common in image capture, such as when the camera or the subject moves rapidly in sports and macro photography. One option to sharpen focus-missed photographs is through single image deconvolution, but high-frequency data cannot be fully recovered; therefore, artifacts such as ringing and amplified noise become apparent. We propose a new method that uses assisting, similar but different, sharp image(s) provided by the user (such as multiple images of the same subject in different positions captured using a burst of photographs). Our first contribution is to theoretically analyze the errors in three sources of data-a slightly sharpened original input image that we call the target, single image deconvolution with an aggressive inverse filter, and warped assisting image(s) registered using optical flow. We show that these three sources have different error characteristics, depending on image location and frequency band (for example, aggressive deconvolution is more accurate in high-frequency regions like edges). Next, we describe a practical method to compute these errors, given we have no ground truth and cannot easily work in the Fourier domain. Finally, we select the best source of data for a given pixel and scale in the Laplacian pyramid. We accurately transfer high-frequency data to the input, while minimizing artifacts. We demonstrate sharpened results on out-of-focus images in macro, sports, portrait and wildlife photography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Here we present a set of methods for documenting (exo-)morphology by applying autofluorescence imaging. For arthropods, but also for other taxa, autofluorescence imaging combined with composite imaging is a fast documentation method with high-resolution capacities. Compared to conventional micro- and macrophotography, the illumination is much more homogenous, and structures are often better contrasted. Applying different wavelengths to the same object can additionally be used to enhance distinct structures. Autofluorescence imaging can be applied to dried and embedded specimens, but also directly on specimens within their storage liquid. This has an enormous potential for the documentation of rare specimens and especially type specimens without the need of preparation. Also for various fossils, autofluorescence can be used to enhance the contrast between the fossil and the matrix significantly, making even smallest details visible. 'Life-colour' fluorescence especially is identified as a technique with great potential. It provides additional information for which otherwise more complex methods would have to be applied. The complete range of differences and variations between fluorescence macrophotography and different types of fluorescence microscopy techniques are here explored and evaluated in detail. Also future improvements are suggested. In summary, autofluorescence imaging is a powerful, easy and fast-to-apply tool for morphological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Finasteride 1 mg is indicated for the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, more than 5 years efficacy and safety has not been previously reported. To assess the efficacy over 10 years in different age groups of men with AGA. 118 men, between 20 and 61 years, with AGA receiving finasteride (1 mg/day), were enrolled in this uncontrolled study. Efficacy evaluation was assessed with standardized global photographs at T0,T1,T2,T5,T10. Statistical analysis was made using frequency tables and evaluating the chi-square index with its p-value. Better improvements are observed in patients older than 30 years (42.8% aged between 20 and 30 years did not improve also after 10 years) or with higher AGA grades (58.9% for AGA grade IV and 45.4% for AGA grade V had the first improvement just after 1 year). In 21% of cases, the treatment continuation beyond 5 years provided better results. Side effects were referred by 6% of the patients; nevertheless, some of them went on with treatment because of the great results. In our opinion, the result after the first year can help in predicting the effectiveness of the treatment. Its efficacy was not reduced as time goes on; in fact, a big proportion of subjects unchanged after 1 year, improved later on, maintaining a positive trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We give an overview of available techniques for imaging and documenting applied to gammarideans and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. Although recent techniques, such as confocal laser scanning microscopy (cLSM), focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB SEM), or computed microtomography (μCT), provide new possibilities to detect and document structures, these high-tech devices are expensive, and access to them is often limited. Alternatively, there are many possibilities to enhance the capabilities of established techniques such as macrophotography and light microscopy. We discuss improvements of the illumination with polarized light and the possibilities of utilizing the autofluorescence of animals such as the gammarideans. In addition, we present software-based enhancing tools such as image fusion and image stitching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased popularity of commercially available three-dimensional human skin equivalents in recent years has allowed for assessment of melanogenesis modulated by compounds topically applied to the skin or directly incorporated from the medium. These skin equivalents provide a suitable model for elucidating the mechanisms of action of various factors that modulate skin pigmentation or other properties of the skin. As such, researchers need to objectively quantify cutaneous responses at the macroscopic level. A simple method to standardize macrophotography images is reported that can quantify cutaneous responses in human skin equivalents of Asian, Black or African American, and Caucasian or White racial/ethnic origin. Macrophotographs are analyzed using the Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage L* a* b* color space system in combination with a personal computer and image editing software. Pigmentation changes monitored over a 9 day period showed a high correlation with melanin content evaluated in Fontana–Masson-stained sections. These results indicate the feasibility of using a macrophotography setup in a sterile tissue culture environment to objectively assess in vitro cutaneous responses in human skin equivalents. This serves as an adjunct tool to biochemical and morphological methods to effectively quantify changes in pigmentation over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The majority of women suffer from the unattractive sight of dimpling skin on the thighs and buttocks, globally known as cellulite. Cellulite can be regarded as the most investigated non-disease, because, from the cosmetic viewpoint, most women desire a reduction in cellulite severity. Despite investigations made, cellulite is still not well understood at the cellular level, which leads to controversy regarding the investigative methods for cellulite reduction as well as the development of products to treat cellulite skin. Objective: The aim of our work was to improve the set up of macrophotography for making images of dimpled skin and to automatize image analysis of 20 MHz ultrasound imaging – these two methods being just two of a variety of available methods for investigating cellulite skin. Methods: Macrophotography was standardized on the aspects of volunteer's positioning, skin illumination, background used, and camera position. It was performed before, during and after a 3-month-treatment of a cosmetic product. Scoring assessments of the generated images were made by the volunteers themselves as well as by six trained experts. Ultrasound imaging was performed at the baseline visit in order to correlate the newly developed analysis with the visually rated cellulite score. A second study is also presented showing a variety of parameters that can be used for cosmetic testing of cellulite products: skin firmness, blood circulation and circumferential thigh measurements. Results: Standardization of macrophotography minimized differences in image features between assessment times, therefore, enabling follow-up rating assessments of the images. A custom-made rating program simplified the scoring procedure by presenting images as blind and randomized, and by implementing computer-based analysis using an online rating scale. Volunteers and experts scored significant improvement of skin appearance over the course of a 3-month cosmetic treatment. Image analysis of ultrasound imaging was automatized, and a modification of the commonly known roughness parameter Ra was implemented to characterize cellulite severity. Comparison with the visually rated cellulite score showed an existing correlation between the score and the modified parameter Ram. Further parameters investigated in an exemplary study, as mentioned above, demonstrated a significant improvement of skin appearance after treatment with a cosmetic product. Conclusions: Macrophotography and ultrasound imaging can be regarded as important tools for determining and quantifying the aspects of cellulite. With a gold standard missing for investigating cellulite severity, these two methods may not determine cellulite at the cellular level, but they do characterize the skin appearance so typical for cellulite. Combined with a variety of other methods, macrophotography and ultrasound imaging can very well define cellulite-reducing efficacy from the cosmetic point of view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The technique of 3D light scanning macrography permits the non-invasive surface scanning of small specimens at magnifications up to 200×. Obviating both the problem of limited depth of field inherent to conventional close-up macrophotography and the metallic coating required by scanning electron microscopy, 3D light scanning macrography provides three-dimensional digital images of intact specimens without the loss of colour, texture and transparency information. This newly developed technique offers a versatile, portable and cost-efficient method for the non-invasive digital and photographic documentation of small objects. Computer controlled device operation and digital image acquisition facilitate fast and accurate quantitative morphometric investigations, and the technique offers a broad field of research and educational applications in biological, medical and materials sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a macrophotographic technique, kinetic studies were performed on growth and gravireaction, both measured on maize (cv. LG11) roots. When using intact roots, it was found that the growth rate decreased two hours after the beginning of the gravistimulus, the rate of root curvature being optimal at the time. These two processes are greater in light than in the dark. Subsequently, the curvature rate decreased rapidly to zero in the dark but, in light, it continued for at least a further three hours. There was then a recovery of elongation in darkness whereas in light growth rate remained low. A comparative analysis between root segments and intact roots suggests that the correlation between the growth and the gravireaction rates differs according to the system studied and that light has a greater effect on growth rate when the roots are subject to gravitational stimuli. Present data are discussed in terms of hormone balance between several endogenous regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cover: Archaeological roman nail of the Arles Rhône 3 shipwreck site, France, background picture optical micrography on transverse section, up left macrophotography of the nail, below left SEM image in backscattering mode, EDS chemical distribution maps of iron (red) and sulfur (yellow) (© LAPA, NIMBE/IRAMAT, CEA/CNRS/Saclay University and A-Corros). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate how light intensity changes with distance from the tip of the light guide. Materials and Methods: Ten different curing light (ie, QTH, LED, plasma arc) and light-guide combinations (ie, standard and turbo fiberoptic) were used to investigate how light intensity varies with distance through air. The light irradiance was measured at 0, 3, 6, and 10 mm from the tip of the light guide using a radiometer (Cure Rite, Dentsply Caulk, Milford, DE, USA). Measurements were repeated in five separate trials and the mean irradiance and standard deviation were calculated. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to test for significant differences in the rate and extent of change in irradiance with increasing distance from the tip of the light guide. The irradiance produced by each curing light was ranked at each distance with Tukey’s Studentized Range test (α=0.05). The number of fibers per square millimeter of the entrance and exit ports of the light guides was measured for the light guides using a photomacrographic camera (Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany). Results: As the distance increased, the irradiance decreased more rapidly from the turbo than from standard light guides. Turbo light guides delivered higher irradiance at distances of 0 and 3 mm, but at distances of 6 and 10 mm, the standard light guides delivered higher irradiance. The cross-sectional area of the entrance fibers was larger than that of the exit fibers for the turbo light guides. Not all light guides are assembled in the same manner, with some containing regular fibers and others containing irregular fibers. Conclusions: This study showed that the light irradiance over distance is dependent on the type of light guide. Although turbo light guides may successfully boost the irradiance of a curing light, that advantage might be quickly lost at greater curing distances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of consumer-used cosmetics for hair removal and hair growth reduction, there is a need for improved quantitative methods to enable the evaluation of efficacy and claim support. Optimized study designs and investigated endpoints are lacking to compare the efficacy of standard methods, like shaving or plucking, with new methods and products, such as depilating instruments or hair-growth-reducing cosmetics. Non-invasive image analysis, using a high-performance microscope combined with an optimized image analysis tool, was investigated to assess hair growth. In one step, high-resolution macrophotographs of the legs of female volunteers after shaving and plucking with cold wax were compared to observe short-term hair regrowth. In a second step, images obtained after plucking with cold wax were taken over a long-term period to assess the time, after which depilated hairs reappeared on the skin surface. Using image analysis, parameters like hair length, hair width, and hair projection area were investigated. The projection area was found to be the parameter most independent of possible image artifacts such as irregularities in skin or low contrast due to hair color. Therefore, the hair projection area was the most appropriate parameter to determine the time of hair regrowth. This point of time is suitable to assess the efficacy of different hair removal methods or hair growth reduction treatments by comparing the endpoint after use of the hair removal method to be investigated to the endpoint after simple shaving. The closeness of hair removal and visible signs of skin irritation can be assessed as additional quantitative parameters from the same images. Discomfort and pain rating by the volunteers complete the set of parameters, which are required to benchmark a new hair removal method or hair-growth-reduction treatment. Image analysis combined with high-resolution imaging techniques is a powerful tool to objectively assess parameters like hair length, hair width, and projection area. To achieve reliable data and to reduce well known image-analysis artifacts, it was important to optimize the technical equipment for use on human skin and to improve image analysis by adaptation of the image-processing procedure to the different skin characteristics of individuals, like skin color, hair color, and skin structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]