Search Results (70)

Ascaris lumbricoides is one of the most epidemiologically significant soil-transmitted helminths, and the environmental persistence of its eggs is largely attributed to their robust structural architecture. The search for ovicidal alternatives capable of overcoming this barrier has increasingly focused on metallic nanoparticles obtained through biological synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to evaluate the ultrastructural effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesised by the nematophagous fungus Duddingtonia flagrans on A. lumbricoides eggs. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs, revealing predominantly spherical, well-dispersed particles with an average diameter of 9.22 ± 4.9 nm. Cytotoxicity assays indicated an IC₅₀ of 7.7 µg/mL. SEM analyses showed that eggs in the control group maintained intact morphology, with no apparent deformities. In contrast, exposure to AgNPs induced pronounced structural alterations, including marked wrinkling, surface erosion and shell collapse, suggesting disruption of multiple layers. Albendazole alone produced deep linear fissures consistent with internal metabolic failure, though with minimal external erosion. The combined treatment with AgNPs and albendazole resulted in severe degradation. These findings demonstrate that AgNPs exhibit significant ovicidal activity and may serve as effective adjuvants to enhance the action of conventional anthelmintics against highly resistant helminth eggs. Full article

Karst regions cover about 12% of Earth’s land surface and exhibit high uncertainty in soil organic carbon (SOC) pools due to strong spatial heterogeneity. This study quantifies the association between rock fissure network morphology and SOC pools across three karst rocky habitat types in the Maolan National Nature Reserve (Guizhou, China): Type I (predominantly sub-horizontal and weakly connected fissures), Type II (oblique and moderately connected fissures), and Type III (predominantly subvertical and highly connected fissures). Fissure network morphology was characterized using quantitative network morphology metrics, and SOC pools (content, density, and stock) were measured from field samples (with long-term sequestration estimated). Type I habitats showed the highest SOC content, density, stock, and sequestration estimates, whereas Type III habitats consistently showed the lowest values. Across habitats, SOC density and stock were negatively associated with metrics reflecting steeper fissure orientation, greater spatial heterogeneity, and higher network connectivity, while SOC content was positively associated with fissure network complexity. These findings highlight fissure network morphology as an important structural dimension for explaining SOC variability in karst rocky habitats and suggest incorporating fissure information into SOC assessment and habitat-specific soil and vegetation management in karst landscapes. Full article

Fenestrations of mammalian skull bones are rare and poorly understood, particularly within the parietal bone. In bats—a group characterised by advanced sensory specialisation and echolocation—superficial modifications of the cranial vault may have functional significance, yet their occurrence and organisation remain insufficiently documented. In this study, we describe an exceptional fenestrated complex in the posterolateral parietal bone of Plecotus auritus, comprising structural elements not previously recorded within Vespertilionidae. The aim of the study was to characterise in detail the morphology, topography, and variability of the surface structure termed Fenestras Elisabeth (nova structura), with particular emphasis on its relationship with the auditory region and its potential biomechanical–acoustic significance. The material consisted of ten skulls of P. auritus, examined using micro-CT scanning, 3D reconstruction, and qualitative analysis of fenestrated structures and their topographic relationships. Within the posterolateral parietal region, we identified an extensive and repeatable fenestrated complex comprising numerous fenestrae parietales Elisabeth, paired fenestrula Elisabeth, a central depression (recessus acousticus parietalis), and a bordering fissure (fissura occipitalis mastoidea, nova structura topographica). The complex exhibited a stable spatial organisation despite individual variation in the number and shape of the openings. All fenestrations were confined to the posterolateral zone, and the contact between the fenestrae and the fissura occipitalis mastoidea represented a diagnostic feature. Our analysis suggests that the Fenestras Elisabeth complex may be associated with combined biomechanical and acoustic constraints: (1) a biomechanical role—reducing strain in the parietal lamina during movements of the extremely mobile and elongated pinnae; and (2) an acoustic role—modulating micro-vibrations transmitted to the inner-ear structures. Individual variability and lateral asymmetry of fenestration patterns indicate a high degree of adaptive plasticity in this region of the skull. This study provides the first documentation of a large, structurally organised parietal-bone fenestration complex in Plecotus auritus, expanding current knowledge of bat cranial morphology and suggesting a likely functional significance for these previously unknown bony structures. Full article

Mustard (Brassica juncea), an essential leaf and oil crop in China, exhibits notable yield potential and adaptability, both of which are influenced by the morphology of the leaf margin. Despite its agronomic importance, the genetic regulatory mechanisms governing this trait remain poorly understood, posing a challenge to molecular breeding efforts. In this study, mustard varieties with lobed and non-lobed leaf margins were used to systematically investigate the genetic basis of leaf margin differentiation through BSA-seq, RNA-seq, and bioinformatics analyses. BSA-seq screening identified four LMI1 homologous genes, including BjuOA10G33260, which may fissure the leaf margin by suppressing cytokinin signaling. RNA-seq analysis revealed significant enrichment of ethylene and growth hormone pathways during key stages of leaf development (at 12 days post-sowing). Integrated analysis of BSA-seq and RNA-seq data identified 15 genes involved in leaf morphogenesis, including BjuOB05G34700 (ADF4, an actin depolymerization factor), BjuOA08G35830 (GATA transcription factor 11), BjuOA09G42060 (ERF transcription factor), and BjuOA07G29650 (GATA transcription factor). Notably, BjuOA10G30380 (TGA2) and BjuOA10G34680 (LAX1) may regulate cytoskeletal dynamics and hormonal signaling, contributing to the development of leaf morphology. This study presents the first molecular network regulating the morphogenesis of the leaf edge in mustard, offering a theoretical foundation and valuable genetic resources for breeding new varieties with optimized leaf architecture. Full article

Background/Objectives: Complex aneurysms of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) remain challenging because of their deep location, variable morphology, and proximity to critical neurovascular structures. Although endovascular therapy is preferred, its feasibility is limited in wide-necked, fusiform, or dissecting lesions. We describe our tertiary referral hospital single-center experience with tailored microsurgical and endovascular strategies—emphasizing occipital artery–PICA (OA-PICA) bypass, transcondylar fossa craniotomy, and cerebellomedullary fissure opening—and analyze perioperative factors that influence outcome. Methods: All consecutive patients treated for PICA origin or distal-PICA aneurysms between January 2021 and April 2025 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographics, aneurysm characteristics, procedure type, antithrombotic regimen, complications, diffusion-weighted MRI findings, and 3-month modified Rankin Scale scores were collected. Results: Twelve aneurysms (mean age 61.4 ± 15.2 years; 8 women) were treated: trapping + OA-PICA bypass in 5, direct clipping in 2, flow diverter in 1, endovascular parent artery occlusion in 2, coil embolization in 1, and a hybrid bypass-plus-coil strategy in 1. Two cases were ruptured aneurysms. Perioperative aspirin was used in 2/5 bypass cases; heparin was added in one hybrid case. Asymptomatic PICA-territory infarcts occurred in the three bypasses performed without antiplatelet therapy (one with intra-anastomotic thrombus). No leaks or subcutaneous collections of cerebrospinal fluid were encountered, and no graft occlusions were observed. At 3 months, 9/12 patients achieved a good outcome (mRS 0–2); among them, only one patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) experienced postoperative worsening of the mRS. Two cranial nerve palsies (one permanent, one transient) and one wound site hematoma (heparin-associated) resolved without sequelae. Conclusions: Meticulous operative planning allows safe treatment of complex PICA aneurysms. Perioperative aspirin appears beneficial for OA-PICA bypass, whereas perioperative heparin increases bleeding risk. Individualized selection of endovascular, microsurgical, or combined strategies yields favorable early neurological outcomes in this demanding subset of cerebrovascular disease. Full article

In the semi-desert aeolian sand areas of Northern China, surface deformation monitoring with SAR is challenged by loss of coherence due to mobile dunes, seasonal vegetation changes, and large-gradient, nonlinear subsidence from underground mining. This study utilizes PALSAR-2 (L-band, 3 m resolution) and Sentinel-1 (C-band, 30 m resolution) data, applying InSAR and Offset tracking methods combined with differential, Stacking, and SBAS techniques to analyze deformation monitoring effectiveness and propose an efficient dynamic monitoring strategy for the Shendong Coalfield. The main conclusions can be summarized as follows: (1) PALSAR-2 data, which has advantages in wavelength and resolution (L-band, multi-look spatial resolution of 3 m), exhibits better interference effects and deformation details compared to Sentinel-1 data (C-band, multi-look spatial resolution of 30 m). The highly sensitive differential-InSAR (D-InSAR) can promptly detect new deformations, while Stacking-InSAR can accurately delineate the range of rock strata movement. SBAS-InSAR can reflect the dynamic growth process of the deformation range as a whole, and SBAS-Offset is suitable for observing the absolute values and morphology of the surface moving basin. The combined application of Stacking-InSAR and Stacking-Offset methods can accurately acquire the three-dimensional deformation field of mining-induced strata movement. (2) The spatiotemporal process of surface deformation caused by coal mining-induced strata movement revealed by InSAR exhibits good correspondence with both the underground mining progress and the development of ground fissures identified in UAV images. (3) The maximum displacement along the line of sight (LOS) measured in the mining area is approximately 2 to 3 m, which is close to the 2.14 m observed on site and aligns with previous studies. The calculated advance influence angle of the No. 22308 working face in the study area is about 38.3°. The influence angle on the solid coal side is 49°, while that on the goaf side approaches 90°. These findings further deepen the understanding of rock movement and surface displacement parameters in this region. The dynamic monitoring strategy proposed in this study is cost-effective and operational, enhancing the observational effectiveness of InSAR technology for surface deformation due to coal mining in this area, and it enriches the understanding of surface strata movement patterns and parameters in this region. Full article

This study examines the potential use of rejected and discarded grains from the common bean industry as a starch source for producing plasticized films with glycerol. The observed morphological characteristics of starch granules from discarded grains were diverse, with round, oval, and kidney-like shapes and sizes ranging from 7 to 34 µm. We determined the pasting profile: the pasting temperature (GT) fell between 72 °C and 74 °C, while the peak viscosity (P_v) demonstrated a significant rise at 10% and 15% starch concentrations. To better understand pasting behavior, mathematical modeling was employed to predict P_v behavior, with an R² value of 0.98. All film formulations were successful, yielding transparent, homogeneous, odorless, flexible films with smooth surfaces. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of the films revealed a flawless surface devoid of fissures, cracks, and pores, displaying a rough texture with a consistent structure and some starch granules resembling empty sacks due to amylose and amylopectin leaching. The highest tensile strength was observed with 6% starch and 1.5 mL of glycerol and the lowest with 4.5% starch and 3.9 mL of glycerol. The findings suggest that starch derived from discarded grains from the bean industry has unique characteristics and properties, making it a promising alternative source for intelligent packaging development. Full article

The submarine topography in the canyon area of the Qiongdongnan Basin is complex, with severe risks of shallow gas hazards threatening marine engineering safety. To accurately characterize seabed morphology and assess shallow gas risks, this study employed multi-source data fusion technology, integrating 3D seismic data, shipborne multibeam bathymetry data, and high-precision AUV topographic data from key areas to construct a refined seabed terrain inversion model. For the first time, the spatial distribution characteristics of complex geomorphological features such as scarps, mounds, fissures, faults, and mass transport deposits (MTDs) were systematically delineated. Based on attribute analysis of 3D seismic data and geostatistical methods, the enrichment intensity of shallow gas was quantified, its distribution patterns were systematically identified, and risk level evaluations were conducted. The results indicate: (1) multi-source data fusion significantly improved the resolution and accuracy of terrain inversion, revealing intricate geomorphological details in deep-water regions; and (2) seismic attribute analysis effectively delineated shallow gas enrichment zones, clarifying their spatial distribution patterns and risk levels. This study provides critical technical support for deep-water drilling platform site selection, submarine pipeline route optimization, and engineering geohazard prevention, offering significant practical implications for ensuring the safety of deep-water energy development in the South China Sea. Full article

Background and Objectives: Chairside bleaching can alter enamel morphology and mineral content. This in vitro study compared surface changes and elemental shifts after three in-office protocols using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Materials and Methods: Forty-two human premolars/molars were sectioned; matched halves served as control or received Opalescence Quick 45% carbamide peroxide (CP), Opalescence Boost 40% hydrogen peroxide (HP), or BlancOne Ultra+ 35% HP with light activation. Gels were applied per manufacturers’ instructions. SEM assessed topography (×500–×1100); EDS quantified atomic percent of O, Ca, P, C and trace elements. One-way ANOVA compared Ca and P between bleached groups (α = 0.05). Results: Controls showed compact surfaces with preserved Ca and P. After Quick, SEM revealed roughness, fissures and microcracks; Ca fell from 11.5 to 12.5 to 9.53–11.73 at% and P from 7.5 to 8.9 to 7.41–8.59 at%. Boost produced mild superficial restructuring and granular deposits with variable Ca 13.80–27.94 at% and P 7.32–14.65 at%. BlancOne Ultra+ caused diffuse erosion and loss of prismatic clarity with marked demineralization (Ca 1.42–7.85 at%, P 1.22–6.71 at%); C rose locally to 46.61 at%. Across bleached groups, Ca and P differed significantly (both p < 0.001). Oxygen remained dominant (~39–50 at%) in all spectra; occasional Al/Si/Cl/K likely reflected residues or preparation artifacts. Conclusions: All protocols produced surface and compositional alterations, with a severity gradient: BlancOne Ultra+ > Boost > Quick. High-concentration, light-activated HP yielded the largest Ca/P losses. Clinically, neutral-pH, non-activated or chemically activated regimens and immediate post-bleach remineralization should ideally be used when feasible, particularly before adhesive procedures. Full article

To systematically elucidate the chronological patterns of embryonic development and morphological changes in the larval and juvenile stages of Silurus glanis, and provide fundamental biological insights into this species, in this study, fertilized eggs were obtained through artificial spawning induction technology. After removing adhesiveness from fertilized eggs using trypsin, a detailed developmental study was conducted. The study systematically analyzed the chronological sequence of embryonic development and the morphological change patterns of larval and juvenile fish. The results showed the following: The fertilized eggs of S. glanis are yellow, spherical, and sticky, and the stickiness allows eggs to attach to spawning substrates, enhancing hatching success. The egg diameter after water absorption was (2.88 ± 0.13) mm. The embryonic development took 47 h and 55 min, with a total accumulated temperature of 1245.56 h degrees Celsius, the developmental process includes seven stages and twenty-six periods, namely the zygophase stage, cleavage stage, blastula stage, gastrula stage, neurula stage, organogenesis stage, and hatching stage. At a temperature of (26.0 ± 0.9) °C, the hatched individuals went through the pre-yolk sac larval stage, late larval stage, juvenile fry stage, and juvenile stage. In the pre-yolk sac larval stage, otoliths appeared in the bilateral otic vesicles, a pair of barbel primordia emerged under the mandible, a short and thin straight intestine formed in the abdominal cavity, and the oral fissure first appeared. In the late larval stage, the fin rays were initially formed, the intestine became thicker and longer, the oral fissure, anus, and cloaca were formed, and the larvae could float and start feeding on exogenous food. In the juvenile fry stage, the differentiation of various organs was basically complete, the nostrils became larger, and both the anal fin and caudal fin had dark black markings. In the juvenile stage, the maxillary barbels elongated, the mucus layer thickened on the body and back, the abdomen is light white, and it had the external morphological characteristics of an adult fish. By measuring and calculating the total length, body length, body height, and head length of S. glanis larvae and juveniles (0–40 days), the results showed that the growth characteristics conformed to the following fish growth formula: TL = 0.0141x² + 0.8096x + 8.2421 (R² = 0.9916), where x denotes days after hatching. This study has preliminarily mastered the chronological patterns of the embryonic development, growth, and formation of the morphological characteristics in larval and juvenile S. glanis, providing scientific data and laying a theoretical foundation for the division of early developmental stages, reproduction, hatching, and fry cultivation. Full article

The human sphenoid bone (SB), centrally located at the cranial base, is structurally and developmentally complex. It arises from multiple cartilaginous precursors and undergoes both endochondral and intramembranous ossification, forming essential elements such as the sella, orbital walls, and numerous foramina. This review integrates embryological, anatomical, and radiological findings to present a comprehensive view of SB development and variation. Embryological studies reveal a layered ossification sequence, with accessory centers in the presphenoid and basisphenoid that influence adult morphology and variants, such as the caroticoclinoid foramen. In adulthood, the SB consists of a central body, paired greater and lesser wings, and the pterygoid processes, which articulate with key craniofacial bones and transmit vital neurovascular structures. Notable variants include duplication or absence of foramina, ossification of ligaments such as the pterygoid and pterygospinous ligaments, and the formation of bony bridges among the clinoid processes. These variants may affect cranial nerve trajectories and surgical access, posing potential risks during neurosurgical, endoscopic, and dental interventions. Emissary structures such as the sphenoidal emissary foramen and the newly described sphenopterygoid canal underscore the region’s vascular complexity. Additionally, variations in the optic and Vidian canals, as well as the superior orbital fissure, can also impact surgical approaches to the orbit, sinuses, and skull base. Understanding the full spectrum of sphenoid bone embryogenesis and morphology is essential for safe clinical practice and practical radiological imaging. Full article

Loess, a typical soil widely distributed in China, exhibits engineering properties that are highly sensitive to environmental changes, leading to increased erosion and the development of surface cracks. This article examines the influence of initial moisture content, dry density, and thickness on crack formation in compacted loess subjected to wet–dry cycles, using both laboratory experiments and numerical simulation analysis. It quantitatively analyzes the process of crack evolution using digital image processing technology. The experimental results indicate that wet–dry cycles can cause cumulative damage to the soil, significantly encouraging the initiation and expansion of secondary cracks. New cracks often branch out and extend along the existing crack network, demonstrating that the initial crack morphology has a controlling effect over the final crack distribution pattern. Numerical simulations based on MultiFracS software further revealed that soil samples with a thickness of 0.5 cm exhibited more pronounced surface cracking characteristics than those with a thickness of 2 cm, with thinner layers of soil tending to form a more complex network of cracks. The simulation results align closely with the indoor test data, confirming the reliability of the established model in predicting fracture dynamics. The study provides theoretical underpinnings and practical guidance for evaluating the stability of engineering slopes and for managing and mitigating fissure hazards in loess. Full article

Background and Objectives: The foramen lacerum (FL), located at the base of the skull, is generally considered the safest anatomical pathway for accessing the internal carotid artery (ICA) and the vidian canal (VC) during surgical procedures. We aimed to evaluate the morphometric characteristics of FL, VC, and related structures. Materials and Methods: This study utilized cranial computed tomography (CT) images obtained between 2016 and 2018 at Balıkesir University Faculty of Medicine for various clinical indications. A retrospective analysis was performed on cranial CT images from 77 patients, comprising 42 females and 35 males. The length and width of the FL, the length of the VC, and the angles formed between the VC and the pterygosphenoidal fissure and between the VC and the palatovaginal canal were measured. All measurements were performed using the three-dimensional (3D) Slicer software to ensure precision and consistency. Results: Males had significantly longer right and left FL lengths and left FL width than females (p < 0.05). No significant gender-based differences were found in VC length on either side. The angle between the VC and the pterygosphenoidal fissure was significantly larger in males (p < 0.05). Additionally, increased FL length and width were significantly correlated with larger angles between the VC and the pterygosphenoidal fissure in all subjects (p < 0.05). The anatomical variations of the FL Type 1 (normal) were identified as the most prevalent configuration across the study population. Type 2 (canal-shaped) ranked as the second most frequent variant in females, whereas Type 3 (bridged) was the second most commonly observed form in males. Conclusions: Preoperative identification of FL anatomical variations, which differ between individuals and sexes, may enhance the safety of skull base surgeries and minimize postoperative complications. The morphometric data presented in this study provide valuable guidance for clinicians planning interventions involving the FL and surrounding structures, and contribute valuable insights to anatomists regarding regional morphology. Full article

Carbonate rock slopes in reservoir environments are increasingly exposed to dissolution-induced deterioration due to water level fluctuations. However, the influence of internal structures—particularly calcite veins—on dissolution behavior remains inadequately understood. The acid-induced dissolution of limestone by a sulfuric acid solution leads to the removal of soluble minerals and changes to the rock structure. Natural variation in rock structures—particularly in the presence, density, and morphology of calcite veins—can significantly affect the dissolution process and its outcomes. In this study, we obtained three types of Triassic limestone from the same host rock but with varying vein structures from the Three Gorges Reservoir area. Cylindrical rock specimens were prepared to investigate the acid-induced dissolution behavior of limestone in a sulfuric acid solution. We identified and analyzed the macrostructures on the rock specimens before and after the interaction. Additionally, SEM was employed to observe the microstructures of the specimens before and after the acid-induced dissolution, and fractal dimension analysis was conducted on the SEM images to quantify surface complexity. Furthermore, we used a focused ion beam–scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM) with an automatic mineral identification and characterization system, as well as mineral roundness calculation, for mineral identification and analysis. Based on the experiments and analyses, we determined the following: The contact surfaces between the host rock and the calcite veins increase the dissolution areas between the limestone and the sulfuric acid solution, intensifying the dissolution reactions, enhancing the connectivity of the original microstructural planes, and generating new, highly extended dissolution fissures. The calcite veins facilitate the entry of sulfuric acid solution into the limestone, intensifying the dissolution of the edges and corners of dolomite and resulting in the gradual rounding of dolomite shapes. Quantitatively, the limestone with dense, fine calcite veins exhibited the most severe dissolution, with water absorption rates nearly twice as high as the non-veined samples (0.13% vs. 0.07%), a 2.2% reduction in fractal dimension, and a 19.53% increase in dolomite roundness with the 1 ≤ R ≤ 3 interval, indicating significantly enhanced surface complexity and mineral reshaping. In summary, the presence of more calcite veins, regardless of their width, leads to more severe rock dissolution. Full article

Background: A2 fusiform aneurysms present certain management difficulties with conventional microsurgical or endovascular approaches due to the circumferential morphology, deep location within the interhemispheric fissure, and narrow surgical corridor. Methods: We present a case of a large (>10 cm) fusiform aneurysm in the right A2 segment treated with a combined method consisting of an extended superficial temporal artery to A3 bypass using a contralateral superficial temporal artery interposition graft and subsequent endovascular trapping of the aneurysm. To treat the aneurysm, endovascular trapping following revascularization was planned. During surgery, as the left A3 segment was not available, a superficial temporal artery to A3 bypass was performed. The right frontal branch (donor) was extended with the left frontal branch as a free interposition graft (end-to-end anastomosis) and then anastomosed with the right A3 segment (end-to-side anastomosis). At 6 days after surgery, after confirming the good patency of the bypass graft, endovascular aneurysm trapping was performed. Results: At 8 days after surgery, the patient was discharged without any neurologic deficits. Follow-up digital subtraction angiography at 12 months after surgery showed the good patency of the bypass graft with complete occlusion of the aneurysm. Conclusions: Our case demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of a combined microsurgical-endovascular approach as a management strategy for deeply located A2 fusiform aneurysm. When in situ bypass is not possible, an extended superficial temporal artery donor may be considered. Full article