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Prediction and validation of Compound factors for prioritization of watersheds are an essential application using machine learning (ML) techniques in water resource engineering. The current paper proposes a methodology to derive 14 morphometric and 3 topo-hydrological parameters using remote sensing (RS) and geographical information systems (GIS). Compound factor (CF) values are calculated using weighted sum analysis (WSA), ReliefF, and the Pearson correlation coefficient, and the important parameters are identified. Two machine learning models, multilayer perceptron (MLP) and support vector machine (SVM), are utilized to predict CF values. Predication accuracy of ML models is evaluated with three parameters, mean absolute error (MAE), Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), and root mean square error (RMSE). It is observed that the maximum value of PCC equal to 1 is achieved through ReliefF and SVM, whereas minimum MAE and RMSE are observed with ReliefF and SVM when Tenfold cross-validation is applied. Since ReliefF shows better results, CF values are calculated and applied to create the watershed. The proposed methodology is helpful for accurately predicting CF values and advantageous to allocating the proper watershed, which will be useful for decision-making and implementation of conservation techniques for soil and water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The study of the realization of hereditary variability on the background of already existing mutant alleles of certain genes is an important part of biomedical and population investigations, including human diseases. The change in viability parameters in individuals of the wild type Belgorod and in the mutant strain of vestigial Drosophila melanogaster over the course of breeding has been researched. The changes in viability parameters during breeding have been recorded in hybrid individuals heterozygous for vestigial, namely, changes in fertility and embryonic lethality of offspring in hybrid individuals Belgorod × vestigial during direct selection, the presence of regulated cell death in the wing imaginal disc in individuals of the Belgorod and vestigial strains, and in hybrid individuals at the initial stage of breeding and after 30 generations of selection. The wing shape changes in interlinear hybrid individuals at different stages of breeding in relation to wild-type individuals Belgorod have been studied. The research methods are the following: selection, study of the frequency of death of offspring at the embryonic stage of development, fertility study, morphometric analysis of the wing, determination of the presence and location of regulated cell death in the wing imaginal disk, statistical analysis. The marker parameters of the wing sensitive to the presence of the mutant allele vg in the genotype, not associated with change in the intensity of regulated cell death in the wing imaginal disc have been revealed.

To understand the current status of germplasm resources of Penaeus japonicus, in this study, genetic diversity was analyzed based on morphometric analysis and fluorescent microsatellite markers. For morphometric analysis, the cumulative ratios of the PC1 and PC2 (85.90%) were greater than 75%, which can explain the morphological variation among populations. For microsatellite analysis, the allele number in 10 microsatellite loci ranged from 27 to 53, and the effective allele number ranged from 21 to 42. The observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.463 to 0.983, whereas expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.932 to 0.966, and the average polymorphism information content was 0.947, which indicated a high level of genetic diversity. The unbiased genetic distance among populations ranged from 0.230 to 0.431, and the genetic similarity coefficient ranged from 0.654 to 0.782. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that the genetic variation within individuals was the main source of variation, accounting for 88.55%, and only 1.49% of the genetic variation came from among populations.

Abstract The Murredu watershed in Telangana State was chosen for the morphometric and land use/land cover (LULC) analysis in this current study. Geographical information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) techniques can estimate the morphometric features and LULC analysis of a catchment. A total of fourteen sub-watersheds (SWs) were created from the watershed (SW 1 to SW 14), and sub-watersheds were prioritized based on morphometric and LULC features. Evaluation of various morphometric characteristics such as linear aspects, relief aspects, and aerial aspects has been carried out for every sub-watershed to prefer ranking. Four parameters were utilized for the LULC analysis to rank and prioritize sub-watersheds. The sub-watersheds were categorized into three groups as low, medium, and high, for soil and water conservation priority based on morphometric and LULC analysis. Using morphometric analysis, higher priorities have been assigned to SW 12 and SW 1, while using LULC analysis, higher priorities have been assigned to SW 9 and SW 11. SW 10 and SW 13 are the most common sub-watersheds that fall within the same priority while using morphometric and LULC analysis. The coefficient of regression results reveals that stream length and stream order, and also stream number and stream order, have a strong association. The deployment of soil and water conservation measures may be conducted in the high-priority sub-watersheds.

In the Sorbas region of Spain, the gypsum karst is known for occurrences of gypsum tumuli, the peculiar weathering landforms that appear on gypsum rocks in semi-arid areas. Tumuli are small-scale domes (diameter: < 15 m, height: < 1.35 m) with empty internal chambers formed by local detachment and uplift of the surface layer of gypsum bedrock. Their origin is attributed to cyclic wetting and drying and expansive re-precipitation of gypsum in near-surface voids and pores of the rocks. Morphometric and morphological analyses of these gypsum landforms were conducted to verify and supplement data regarding their morphology. Based on linear regression equations, the geometry of the tumuli was analyzed quantitatively using pairs of the following parameters: horizontal long and short axes, relative height, thickness of the uplifted rock layer, height of the internal chamber, and others. The tumuli are limited in size – they rarely exceed 4.0 m in horizontal extension and 0.5 m in height above the surface of the surrounding terrain. Regardless of their size, they tend to preserve a rather constant plan shape, from circular to elliptical. The relative height of the tumuli is as a rule 7 to 8 times smaller than the length of their long horizontal axis, and ca. 6 times smaller than the length of the short axis. Aerial photogrammetry was used to estimate the destruction degree of gypsum tumuli, which helps to interpret their morphological changes during erosion. The appearance of a hole at the top of the form leads to the development of narrow-crater and then wide-crater tumuli. The side inlet opening leads to the formation of half-moon and then sickle shaped tumuli. [Display omitted] • A morphostatistical study of gypsum tumuli in the Sorbas region, Spain, was conducted. • A strong linear correlation was shown between the measured morphological parameters. • Development of gypsum tumuli proceeds according to certain strict geometrical rules. • The relative height of gypsum tumulus is on average 7–8 times smaller than its length. • Morphological evolution of tumuli undergoing destruction was reconstructed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of biomaterials such as synthetic scaffolds for peripheral nerve regeneration requires a precise knowledge of the mechanical properties of the nerve in physiological-like conditions. Mechanical properties (Young's modulus, maximum stress and strain at break) for peripheral nerves are scarce and large discrepancies are observed in between reports. This is due in part to the absence of a robust testing device for nerves. To overcome this limitation, a custom-made tensile device (CMTD) has been built. To evaluate its reproducibility and accuracy, the imposed speed and distance over measured speed and distance was performed, followed by a validation using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), a commercial polymer with established mechanical properties. Finally, the mechanical characterization of rodents (mice and rats) sciatic nerves using the CMTD was performed. Mouse and rat sciatic nerves Young's modulus were 4.57 ± 2.04 and 19.2 ± 0.86 MPa respectively. Maximum stress was 1.26 ± 0.56 MPa for mice and 3.81 ± 1.84 MPa for rats. Strain at break was 53 ± 17% for mice and 32 ± 12% for rats. The number of axons per sciatic nerve was found to be twice higher for rats. Statistical analysis of the measured mechanical properties revealed no sex-related trends, for both mice and rats (except for mouse maximum stress with p = 0. 03). Histological evaluation of rat sciatic nerve corroborated these findings. By developing a robust CMTD to establish the key mechanical properties (Young's modulus, maximum stress and strain at break) values for rodents sciatic nerves, our work represent an essential step toward the development of better synthetic scaffolds for peripheral nerve regeneration. [Display omitted] • A custom-made tensile device specific to tissues characterization was validated. • Mechanical characterization of rodents' sciatic nerves as conducted. • Rat nerve Young's modulus was found 4 times higher than mouse one. • Morphometric analyses corroborated mechanical results. • Rodents sciatic nerves mechanical properties were established from robust data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rivers tend to alter the morphology of their bed and valley as a response to changes in their base level. The study of a drainage basin's tectonic activeness is very important. But especially in areas where rates of vertical tectonic movements are scarce, the morphometric analysis can be proved to be a very accurate method for assessing the effects of neotectonic movements on a drainage network. This method is easy to apply, as it does not require a lot of data. This study concerns the drainage basin of Acheron river in Epirus, Greece. In order to assess of river's response to active tectonic movements, a morphometric analysis was conducted, using a digital elevation model (DEM). Seven morphometric parametres and five geomorphic indices were calculated for the entire basin, as well as 9 sub-basins. Subsequently, each sub-basin was categorised into three categories regarding tectonic activeness (high-medium-low) for each index individually. The relative active tectonics index was also calculated, as the average of the aforementioned morphometric parametres and geomorphic indices. Based on that, each sub-basin was categorised into three categories regarding the overall tectonic activeness (low-medium-high). These results were compared with the drainage pattern and field observations, so as to gain insights on the tectonic activeness of the sub-basins and the entire basin of Acheron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing interest in the natural environment and greater hiking activity have resulted in higher anthropogenic pressure in areas characterized by a geographic/physical setting that could present hazardous conditions. The development of these activities is influenced by the peculiar geomorphological and climatic conditions of the area. Visitors and hikers do not always have adequate cultural background and full awareness of natural dynamics, including the possibility of incurring hazardous conditions. For its cultural and landscape value and extraordinary trail network, the Portofino Promontory is frequented by more than a hundred thousand of hikers a year. However, due to the geomorphological characteristics of the area, the morphological features of the trail network (i.e., exposed paths, steep ups and downs, rocky sections with cables, etc.) and the peculiar meteo-climatic conditions, the number of accidents involving hikers has increased in the most recent years. This research uses a detailed LiDAR survey, a morphometric analysis, and a significant dataset of information on the frequentation of the hiking trail network and on the number of rescue operations carried out by the National Mountain Rescue and Speleological Service (CNSAS). These data have been related to the physical-geographical characteristics of the area. The results can be a useful tool for land management by the Park Authority.

Background: Malignant lesions of the cervix are the most frequent cause of mortality and morbidity and the third most common cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide. The incidence of cervical cancer is progressively reducing due to the routine use of Papanicolaou (Pap) smears to detect precancerous and early malignant lesions. Moreover, since it is based on subjective morphological assessment, false positive or negative reports are likely to be there. Using morphometric techniques, there have been attempts to use objective parameters to improve the accuracy of reports. In the present study, we used Image Morphometric Software and some of its plugins in order to create macro-images to analyze a large number of cells at a given time and study various nuclear parameters, useful in evaluating pre-malignant and malignant cervical Pap smears. Method: A retrospective study was done on abnormal Pap smears. Bethesda System was used for the categorization of cervical Pap smears into premalignant and malignant lesions. Nuclear parameters were calculated employing Image-Pro 2.0 Morphometric Software. The analyzed parameters included nuclear area, perimeter, radius, and compactness. The obtained results were statistically analyzed using SPSS software version 19.0. Results: Nuclear area, perimeter, radius, and compactness were found to be statistically significant parameters in differentiating premalignant from malignant cervical smears (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Nuclear morphometry was found to be a useful objective way and an adjunct to conventional microscopy in differentiating premalignant from malignant cervical lesions.

Investigation into the utilitarian function of mortuary vessels is often a neglected aspect of ceramic examination. Since, in most cases, a direct link can be assumed between the vessels’ size, form, and most optimal utilitarian function, morphometry-based ceramic categories – along with ethnoarchaeological examples – can help to understand the role of these vessels in funerary contexts. This article focuses on the relationship between the utilitarian function of ceramics and their roles in graves through the analysis of eight Early Copper Age (4400/4300–4000/3900 BC) burial sites, associated with Tiszapolgár and Bodrogkeresztúr ceramic styles, from the Upper Tisza Region (Hungary). The deposition of ceramic assemblages in graves became common in this period; however, a systematic analysis of their function has never been carried out before. In this study, a morphometry-based methodology was developed to establish the vessels’ utilitarian function. These functions were considered in the analysis of the composition of mortuary assemblages, and how they may reflect social status or gender roles of the deceased individual. Results indicate that the Tiszapolgár and Bodrogkeresztúr assemblages cannot be unequivocally distinguished from each other based on morphometric and functional criteria, suggesting similar functional roles in the past funerary contexts.

In the generational evolution of nano-based drug delivery carriers, active targeting has been a major milestone for improved and selective drug accumulation in tissues and cell types beyond the existing passive targeting capabilities. Among the various active targeting moieties, chlorotoxin, a peptide extracted from scorpions, demonstrated promising tumor cell accumulation and selection. With lung cancer being among the leading diagnoses of cancer-related deaths in both men and women, novel therapeutic methodologies utilizing nanotechnology for drug delivery emerged. Given chlorotoxin's promising biological activity, we explore its potential against lung cancer and its utilization for active targeting against this cancer's tumor cells. Our analysis indicates that despite the extensive chlorotoxin's research against glioblastoma, lung cancer research with the molecule has been limited, despite some promising early results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel spikerush, Eleocharis angusticeps, from the highmarsh of Camden County, Georgia, is described, and the results of a morphometric analysis are presented in support of the recognition of this new species. A technical description, dichotomous key, comparative photographs of achenes, spikelets, and plant habit, distribution maps, habitat data, and specimen citations are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel flatsedge from karst ponds in southwestern Georgia, Cyperus excurrens, is described, and the results of principal component analysis are presented in support of the recognition of this new species. A technical description, dichotomous key, comparative photographs of spikelets and achenes, distribution maps, habitat data, and specimen citations are included. The status of the related taxon, Cyperus strigosus var. stenolepis, is also evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on the origin and morphology of lake depressions in Mongolia are relatively poor. Bayan Lake in Zavkhan Province, Western Mongolia, has freshwater, supplied by groundwater emanating from a tectonic fault-oriented northeast to southwest, defining the southeastern side of the Bayan Lake. The depression of Bayan Lake has a tectonic origin, related with the fault which on its southern side, which is covered by sand dunes. The results of morphometric analysis, satellite mapping, geomagnetic anomaly assessment, and other relevant methods all support that the southern margin of the lake is defined by a large fault. The depression morphology of Bayan Lake shows that it was formed by subsidence accommodated by the fault along the southwestern side of the lake. Bayan Lake depression has the origin tectonic, but the recent barrier in the south is the dunefield on the bedrock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the near future, natural disasters and associated risks are expected to increase, mainly because of the impact of climate change. Australia is considered one of the most vulnerable areas for natural disasters, including flooding. Therefore, an evaluation of the morphometric characteristics of the Onkaparinga basin in South Australia was undertaken using the integration of remote sensing and geospatial techniques to identify its impact on flash floods. The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) and Landsat images with other available geologic, topographic, and secondary data were analysed in geographic information system (GIS) to outline the drainage basins, estimate the morphometric parameters, and rank the parameters to demarcate the flash flood susceptibility zones of the basin. The main goal was to develop a flash flood susceptibility map showing the different hazard zones within the study areas. The results showed that 10.87%, 24.27%, and 64.85% are classified as low, moderate, and highly susceptible for flooding, respectively. These findings were then verified against secondary data relating to the historic flood events of the area. About 30.77% of the historical floods are found located within the high to extremely susceptible zones. Moreover, a significant correlation has been found between the high precipitation concentration index (PCI) and the irregular rainfall and high potential for flooding. Finally, the social and economic vulnerability was applied to determine the impact of the flood hazards. The result indicates a widespread threat to the economy, environment, and community in the study area. This study can be utilized to support and assist decision makers with planning and the devotion of alleviation measures to reducing and avoiding catastrophic flooding events, especially in highly susceptible areas in the world, such as South Australian basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out using molecular and biometric data of Carabus (Macrothorax) morbillosus from mid-Mediterranean areas to determine additional information on basal relationships among its representative subspecies. To this aim, two different kinds of approach were employed, including a morphometric analysis of four morphological parameters (i.e., elytra length, elytra width, pronotum length, pronotum width) of 128 specimens, and a Bayesian genetic analysis of 44 cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) partial sequences (i.e., 38 examined for the first time and six retrieved from GenBank database). Representative populations of C. (M.) morbillosus were sampled in four countries, namely Italy, Malta, Spain, and Tunisia. The present findings support the validity of four C. (M.) morbillosus subspecies, specifically C. (M.) m. alternans, C. (M.) m. bruttianus, C. (M.) m. constantinus, and C. (M.) m. macilentus, and redefine these subspecies' distributions. Notably, within the C. (M.) m. constantinus clade, two (i.e., Sardinia/Tuscany and Lampedusa) out of the three subgroups appear as homogeneous geographical groupings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elevated platelet count (PC), mean platelet volume (MPV), and Platelet Mass Index (PMI) are reported in patients with psoriasis, while platelet activation is associated with psoriasis severity. Available studies examining the relationship between platelet activation markers and psoriasis have mostly focused on psoriasis area severity index. To the best of our knowledge, there is no study examining the relationship between histopathological features of a single psoriatic plaque and platelet activation. The present study examined the relationship between histomorphological findings obtained by morphometric analysis and psoriasis patients' PC, MPV, and PMI values. Materials and Methods: Morphometric analysis was performed on hematoxylin and eosin‐stained preparations of skin biopsies to measure minimum suprapapillary epidermis thickness (SPETmin) and maximum epidermal thickness (ETmax), maximum suprapapillary keratosis thickness (SPKTmax), and maximum keratosis thickness (KTmax). The relationship between PC, MPV, PMI, and morphometric skin biopsy outcomes was evaluated. Results: While an inverse correlation was found between SPETmin and PC and PMI in cases with psoriasis (p values = 0.015 and 0.005, r values = −0.238 and −0.271, respectively), no significant correlation was found between SPETmin and MPV (p value = 0.600, r value = −. 052). On the contrary, no significant correlation was found between SPKTmax, ETmax, and KTmax values and platelet parameters. Conclusion: We assume that an increased risk of platelet activation‐related diseases is expected in psoriasis patients displaying histopathological findings of suprapapillary thinning due to increased platelet activation; therefore, it may be beneficial to monitor these patients in terms of such risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone graft resorption following the Latarjet procedure has received considerable concern. Current methods quantifying bone graft resorption rely on two-dimensional (2D) CT-scans or three-dimensional (3D) techniques, which do not represent the whole graft volume/resorption (i.e., 2D assessment) or expose patients to additional radiation (i.e., 3D assessment) as this technique relies on early postoperative CT-scans. The aim of the present study was to develop and validate a patient-specific, CT-morphometric technique combining image registration with 3D CT-reconstruction to quantify bone graft resorption following the Latarjet procedure for recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Pre-operative and final follow-up CT-scans were segmented to digitally reconstruct 3D scapula geometries. A virtual Latarjet procedure was then conducted to model the timepoint-0 graft volume, which was compared with the final follow-up graft volume. Graft resorption at final follow-up was highly correlated to the 2D gold standard-technique by Zhu (Kendall tau coefficient = 0.73; p < 0.001). The new technique was also found to have excellent inter- and intra-rater reliability (ICC values, 0.931 and 0.991; both p < 0.001). The main finding of this study is that the technique presented is a valid and reliable method that provides the advantage of 3D-assessment of graft resorption at long-term follow-up without the need of an early postoperative CT-scan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stenoponia tripectinata tripectinata (Tiraboschi, 1902) is the most prevalent subspecies, within the genus Stenoponia , in the Mediterranean area. This rodent flea is widely distributed throughout southwestern Europe and the North of Africa including Mediterranean islands and the Canary Islands. Nevertheless, from a taxonomical and systematic point, this flea group has been neglected over the years. Therefore, the aim of this study was to carry out a comparative morphometric, phylogenetic, and molecular study of two populations of S. t. tripectinata isolated from rodents collected from different islands from the Canary Archipelago and from Corsica to clarify the taxonomic status of these two isolated populations and to assess the morphological and molecular differentiation between them. For this purpose, we have analyzed several morphological traits and sequenced five molecular markers (EF1- α, ITS2, cox 1, cox 2, and cyt b). We observed slight differences in the overall body size between females of both populations, and two well-defined geographical genetic lineages. This suggests the existence of two cryptic subspecies within S. t. tripectinata corresponding to two different island groups. Furthermore, we bring to light the necessity to provide new and updated morphological, molecular, and phylogenetic data to clarify the taxonomic status of S. tripectinata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anatomical knowledge is crucial for addressing diagnostic challenges, ensuring safe procedures, and avoiding potential risks. Among the various mandibular anatomical landmarks, the mental foramen (MF) is particularly significant for dental procedures, especially surgeries. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive radiographic evaluation of this region before performing such procedures. The purpose of this study was to investigate the size of MF and the distances from its border to the alveolar crest (AC) and to the inferior border of the mandible (IBM) in a selected Syrian population by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and to detect any statistically significant effect of individuals' factors, such as sex, age, dental status, and side on these anatomical parameters., Material and Methods: The study retrospectively analyzed 200 CBCT scans (400 hemimandibles) from 104 females and 96 males, grouped into three age categories: 20-35, 36-50, and 51-65years. The hemimandibles were classified based on dental status into three groups: dentate, partially edentate, and completely edentate, and by side as right or left., Results: The study revealed that the average horizontal and vertical diameters of MF were (3.48±0.75mm) and (3.01±0.75mm), respectively. Additionally, the average distances D1 (MF-AC) and D2 (MF-IBM) were (11.01±3.68mm) and (12.51±1.56mm) respectively. The study's findings indicated that age and dental status had a statistically significant effect on all the parameters studied, except for the horizontal diameter. Furthermore, sex had a statistically significant effect on all the parameters, while the side had no effect on any of the parameters investigated., Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that an understanding of the morphometry of the mental foramen is essential for clinicians, which may assist them in performing dental procedures more safely and achieving successful local anesthesia. Moreover, individual factors should be taken into consideration., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the anatomical variations and morphometric characteristics of the sulci in the dural venous sinuses within the intracranial cavity, with a particular focus on sex differences and asymmetry., Methods: Thirty fixed cadaveric heads were used to measure the dimensions (length, width, and depth) and spatial relationships of the dural venous sinus sulci within the intracranial cavity, including the distance to the midline, distance to each other, and lateral margin of the skull. Comparisons were made between sexes and sides of the body., Results: A significant difference was observed in the length of the marginal sinus on the right side between sexes (p = 0.028). Various measurements, including the width of the transverse sinus, origin and insertion sites of the superior petrosal sinus, and distances between the sinuses and midline, showed statistically significant differences between the left and right sides (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the width of the inferior petrosal sinus and depth of the sigmoid sinus were notably higher on the right side (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: The results suggest an asymmetric distribution of the sigmoid, superior/inferior petrosal, and transverse sinuses in terms of diameter and distance from the midline. Surgeons should consider these anatomical variations during procedures in this region., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethical approval: All procedures conducted in this study involving human participants adhered to the ethical standards of the Bahcesehir University Clinical Research Ethics Committee, as approved by the ethics committee of the Bahcesehir University Faculty of Medicine (protocol ID: 2022-17/02 and approval date: November 16, 2022), and were in accordance with the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its subsequent amendments or comparable ethical standards. Consent to participate: Not applicable. Consent to publish: Not applicable. Informed consent: Not applicable. Statement of research involving human participants and animals: The study was approved by the Bahcesehir University Clinical Research Ethics Committeeand certify that the study was performed in accordance with the ethical standards as laid down in the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards. Conflicts of interest: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

This research paper presents a detailed investigation into the morphometric characteristics of sub-basins within the Naama region of Algeria, aiming to prioritize areas vulnerable to soil erosion and runoff risks. Focusing on five key sub-basins that collectively represent 75% of the Wilaya of Naama, the study employs a comprehensive methodological framework, integrating morphometric analysis (MA), weighted sum analysis (WSA), principal component analysis (PCA), and the novel approach of compositional data analysis (CoDA). Through the rigorous evaluation of sixteen distinct morphometric parameters selected based on their relevance to hydrological and geomorphological processes that influence erosion and runoff, this research provides a nuanced understanding of the factors influencing erosion susceptibility within each sub-basin. The analysis reveals a clear hierarchy of sub-basins based on their calculated compound parameters, effectively classifying them into high, moderate, and low priority categories for targeted intervention and resource allocation. The results highlight the Ain Sefra and Wadi Er Rosafa sub-basins as the highest priority areas, collectively encompassing 31.51% of the wilaya and posing the most significant threats of runoff and soil erosion. This identification allows for the prioritization of conservation efforts and the implementation of tailored management strategies in these critical areas. Furthermore, the integration of multiple prioritization approaches, including the innovative application of CoDA, ensures a robust and comprehensive assessment of the sub-basin landscapes. This multi-faceted approach provides a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between various morphometric parameters and their influence on erosion and runoff potential. The findings of this research have significant implications for sustainable land and water resource management within the Naama region. By identifying and prioritizing vulnerable sub-basins, the study provides a crucial foundation for informed decision-making, enabling stakeholders to implement targeted interventions and mitigate the detrimental impacts of soil erosion and excessive runoff. Moreover, the methodological framework presented in this research paper offers a valuable blueprint for similar studies in other regions facing comparable challenges. The cost-effective and time-efficient nature of the approach makes it a practical tool for prioritizing erosion and runoff risks in arid and semi-arid environments worldwide, contributing to the broader goals of environmental sustainability and land degradation neutrality., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethical approval: All authors have read, understood, and complied with the statement on the “Ethical responsibilities of authors.” Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Aim: The aim of this research is to analyse and assess the anatomical variability of the infraorbital canal, groove, and foramen using high-resolution CT images of the Indian population using mimics software., Materials and Methods: A total of 100 high-resolution CT (HRCT) data (200 hemi-faces) with a range of 18-65 years in Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) format was incorporated in mimics software. Infraorbital foramen (IOF), infraorbital groove (IOG), and infraorbital canal (IOC) were evaluated retrospectively using seven parameters. Statistical analysis was made, and comparisons were made with respect to gender, side, and age groups., Results: Out of 100 HRCT data obtained, 74 were of men and 13 were of women, with an average age of 32.5 years. Of 200 hemifaces, the average length of the IOC was 14.99 ± 6.25 mm, the average length of the IOG was 15.25 ± 7.87 mm, the average total length was 30.26 ± 3.36 mm, and the average transverse diameter of IOF was 2.02 ± 0.48 mm. The mean distance from IOF to the infraorbital margin (IOM) was 7.35 ± 1.67 mm, IOC to the medial wall was 16.02 ± 2.22 mm, and IOC to the lateral wall was 16.99 ± 2.47 mm., Conclusion: Measurement data of infraorbital apparatus varies among different populations. This study contributes valuable knowledge regarding the measurements of the IOC, IOG, and IOF, particularly within the Indian population. This information can help by minimizing the risk of complications and improve the treatment planning for operative and anesthetic procedures., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Razak et al.)

The widespread problem of microplastic (MP) contamination is becoming a major threat to the globe. Although most of the research to date has concentrated on the physiological impacts of MPs exposure, a relatively new field of study is beginning to examine its effects on the behaviour and limbic regions of the brain. In this study, exposure to polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) for acute and sub-chronic durations negatively affected cognition and induced anxiety-like behaviour in mice. PS-MPs were detected in vital organs of mice, including the brain, which induced neurobehavioural and pathological changes in the limbic system. Furthermore, morphometric analysis revealed a significant decrease in the total cell count in the Dentate Gyrus (DG) and Cornu Ammonis (CA) regions of the hippocampus. Signs of neuronal injury and dystrophic changes were observed in the cortex, amygdala, and hypothalamus, potentially affecting anxiety and fear responses. Our study thus provides insight into the effect of PS-MPs on the neurobiology of the brain's limbic system and related behavioural alterations., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests:, (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background and Aims: Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) has an established role in patients with non-responsive celiac disease (CeD). A non-invasive method to quantify small bowel atrophy is still lacking., Methods: We analysed SBCE frames from CeD patients from 2018 to 2020. Histology was the reference standard, with atrophy defined as Marsh-Oberhuber score ≥ 3a. Three regions of interest (ROI) were blindly selected from each frame by an expert gastroenterologist and analysed using a National Institute of Health J image-processing software into a numerical scale. A 3D surface plot macro identified intestinal villi density through isolines plots., Results: We acquired 306 ROIs from 57 frames with macroscopic atrophy and 45 with normal mucosa. Frames were classified as atrophic (n = 63) or non-atrophic (n = 39) per Marsh-Oberhuber classification. Median density score significantly differed between atrophic and non-atrophic frames (p < 0.001). The morphometric analysis showed a sensitivity of 77 % and a specificity of 79 % in discriminating between atrophic or non-atrophic mucosa with a 14.10 cut-off (Youden Index) and an overall AUC of 0.805 (CI 95 % 0.712-0.897)., Conclusions: Our newly developed SBCE software can effectively quantify villous atrophy. Further studies are needed to validate its applicability in an external cohort., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest All authors of the manuscript “Computer aided villi morphometric quantification in video-capsule enteroscopy: a newly developed software to quantify small bowel atrophy” declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

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., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Abstract Morphometric analysis is a pertinent scientific approach in any hydrological analysis, and it is necessary in the progress and management of drainage basin. Identification of areas at risk of erosion, and the prioritization of 48 sub-watersheds of Inaouene basin, was done by using linear, relief and areal aspects of watershed. The research carried out the use of geographic information system spatial data. The linear aspects include stream number, stream sequence, stream length, and bifurcation ratio, mean length of stream order, stream length ratio, mean stream length ratio, and form factor. The areal aspect includes frequency of stream, drainage density, texture ratio, channel length constant, and overland flow maintenance length. Ultimately, the relief dimensions included relief proportion, relief and ruggedness number. The array of compound (Cp) values computed allow us to set the priority ranks and classify the sub-watershed into three priority ranks groups: low, moderate, and high priority. Such morphometric analyses can be used therefore as a watershed erosion status estimator to prioritize land and water conservation initiatives and natural resources management.

Purpose: To evaluate therapeutic effectiveness of antibacterial triclosan (TCS) and anti-inflammatory flurbiprofen (FLB)-loaded nanogels system in ligature-induced experimental periodontitis in rats. Methodology: A total of 72 Sprague–Dawley rats were used in this study. Four groups (n = 18 each) were randomly created: Group 1 – neither subjected to experimental periodontitis nor to any treatment; Group 2 – subjected to experimental periodontitis but not treated; Group 3 – subjected to experimental periodontitis and then treated with the developed nanogels; Group 4 – subjected to experimental periodontitis and then placed on a mixture of pure TCS and FLB treatment. The experimental periodontitis was induced on the lower incisors by applying a ligature which was kept for 14 days. Treatment was done for 7 days, and sampling was done at 7, 14, and 28 day of the post-induction experimental period. Morphometric analysis was conducted to assess the clinical outcomes and healing effect. Results: The morphometric findings showed that the group treated with the developed TCS and FLB-loaded nanogels recovered better and faster than a mixture of pure TCS and FLB. At 28 day of the experimental period, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the baseline control group and the nanogels treated group. Conclusions: The developed TCS and FLB-loaded nanogels was found to be effective in the treatment of experimental periodontitis in rats. The used experimental periodontitis model was found to be simple and easily reproducible.

Transform faults are widespread within the Atlantic Ocean. Their relief is determined by a variety of factors related mainly to the peculiarities of the deep structure of the lithosphere and regional geodynamics. The degree of their influence changes when passing from one morphotectonic province of the Atlantic Ocean to another. The differences are manifested in the morphology of the main elements of the transform fault and the correlation of their morphometric parameters with the length of the active part, which was shown earlier by analogue modeling. The dependence between the depth of the transform valley and the axis offset of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge along the transform fault has been revealed. Variations in the values of morphometric parameters are interpreted as a consequence of different duration of fault development, as well as different degrees of influence of secondary factors within each of the provinces. Based on the analysis of the bathymetric data on the Atlantic transform faults, five main groups of relief-forming factors are identified, and the relative degree of importance of the factors is determined for each of them. It is assumed that the identified dependences are preserved for the transform faults in other oceans.