Search Results (3,871)

The accurate extraction of water bodies from remote sensing imagery is crucial for water resource monitoring and flood disaster warning. However, this task faces significant challenges due to complex land cover, large variations in water body morphology and spatial scales, and spectral similarities between water and non-water features, leading to misclassification and low accuracy. While deep learning-based methods have become a research hotspot, traditional convolutional neural networks (CNNs) struggle to represent multi-scale features and capture global water body information effectively. To enhance water feature recognition and precisely delineate water boundaries, we propose the AMU-Net model. Initially, an improved residual connection module was embedded into the U-Net backbone to enhance complex feature learning. Subsequently, a multi-scale attention mechanism was introduced, combining grouped channel attention with multi-scale convolutional strategies for lightweight yet precise segmentation. Thereafter, a dual-attention gated modulation module dynamically fusing channel and spatial attention was employed to strengthen boundary localization. Furthermore, a cross-layer geometric attention fusion module, incorporating grouped projection convolution and a triple-level geometric attention mechanism, optimizes segmentation accuracy and boundary quality. Finally, a triple-constraint loss framework synergistically optimized global classification, regional overlap, and background specificity to boost segmentation performance. Evaluated on the GID and WHDLD datasets, AMU-Net achieved remarkable IoU scores of 93.6% and 95.02%, respectively, providing an effective new solution for remote sensing water body extraction. Full article

In a survey of Bajiaozhai National Forest Park (Guilin, China), several specimens of an Euseius sp. were collected. These specimens were very similar to Euseius nicholsi and Euseius oolong, based on morphological observations. However, some morphological characters, such as the body size, number of solenostomes on the dorsal plate, calyx shape of the spermatheca, the shape and number of metapodal platelet, teeth number on the fixed digit, length of setae j3, and macroseta Seg IV, Sti IV, and St IV were different between these specimens and E. nicholsi and E. oolong. To ascertain whether these morphological differences were interspecific or intraspecific variations, molecular analyses were conducted using mitochondrial DNA COI, 12S rRNA, and nuclear ITS markers. Based on the three molecular markers, minimal genetic distances were observed (COI 0–4%, 12S rRNA 0–2%, and ITS 0%) among the putative Euseius sp., E. nicholsi (collected from Bauhinia purpurea in IZGAS and from Eurya macartneyi and Ficus hispida in Shaoguan City), and E. oolong (collected from B. purpurea in IZGAS). Amblyseius swirskii was used as the outgroup. Using the maximum likelihood method, the phylogenetic tree showed that these specimens of Euseius sp., E. nicholsi, and E. oolong clustered in a single clade. Therefore, we propose that this putative Euseius sp. is E. nicholsi, and E. oolong is a junior synonym of E. nicholsi. This study demonstrates the importance of integrative taxonomy for the proper identification of phytoseiid mites. Full article

Accurate correspondence of complex neuroanatomical surfaces under non-rigid deformations remains a formidable challenge in computational neuroimaging, owing to inter-subject topological variability, partial occlusions, and non-isometric distortions. Here, we introduce the Dynamic Graph Analyzer (DGA), a unified hybrid framework that integrates simplified structural descriptors with spatial constraints and formulates matching as a global linear assignment. Structurally, the DGA computes node-level metrics, degree weighted by betweenness centrality and local clustering coefficients, to capture essential topological patterns at a low computational cost. Spatially, it employs a two-stage scheme that combines global maximum distances and local rescaling of adjacent node separations to preserve geometric fidelity. By embedding these complementary measures into a single cost matrix solved via the Kuhn–Munkres algorithm followed by a refinement of weak correspondences, the DGA ensures a globally optimal correspondence. In benchmark evaluations on the FAUST dataset, the DGA achieved a significant reduction in the mean geodetic reconstruction error compared to spectral graph convolutional netwworks (GCNs)—which learn optimized spectral descriptors akin to classical approaches like heat/wave kernel signatures (HKS/WKS)—and traditional spectral methods. Additional experiments demonstrate robust performance on partial matches in TOSCA and cross-species alignments in SHREC-20, validating resilience to morphological variation and symmetry ambiguities. These results establish the DGA as a scalable and accurate approach for brain shape correspondence, with promising applications in biomarker mapping, developmental studies, and clinical morphometry. Full article

The electronic transport behavior in ferromagnetic thin films critically dictates the functionality and efficiency of devices in spintronics and modern materials science. This work characterizes terahertz (THz) responses and nonlinear conductivities of Fe ultrathin films under high-field THz excitation. We demonstrated that different nonlinearities are present for two different thickness samples. For a 2 nm thick Fe film, as the peak THz electric field was increased to 369 kV/cm, the THz transmittance of Fe films generally decreased. However, for the 4 nm thick Fe film, the THz transmittance is almost field strength independent. This result is correlated with the conductivity variations induced by carrier transport processes. The real part of the complex conductivity for the 2 nm thick film increased significantly with the THz electric field, while the 4 nm thick film showed negligible dependence. In addition, we extracted the frequency-domain complex conductivity of the Fe thin films and used the Drude or Drude–Smith model to explain the distinct behaviors between the two thickness samples under intense THz fields, mainly associated with the surface morphology. This work aims to elucidate the transport properties of Fe films in the THz frequency range. Our findings lay a crucial foundation for the design and development of future high-performance THz spintronic functional devices. Full article

The influence of minor components on leaching molecular iodine (I₂) through polypropylene (PP)-based packaging from a povidone iodine-based (PVP-I) formulation, simulating an ophthalmic application, was evaluated. I₂ is a cheap, broad-spectrum, and multi-target antiseptic. Nevertheless, it is volatile, and the prolonged storage of I₂-based formulations is demanding in plastic packaging because of transmission through the material. Therefore, we explored the possibility of moderating the loss of I₂ from an iodophor formulation by introducing small amounts of molecular iodine into the polymer material commonly used in eyedropper caps, i.e., PP. Thus, PP was blended via an extrusion process with a polymeric complex containing iodine (such as PVP-I) or with a second polymeric component able to complex the I₂ released from an iodophor solution. The aim of this work was to introduce I₂ into PP-based polymer matrices without using organic solvents and indirectly, i.e., through the addition of components that could generate molecular iodine or complex it in the solid phase, as I₂ is heat-sensitive. To increase the miscibility between PP and PVP-I, poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) or a vinyl pyrrolidone vinyl acetate copolymer 55/45 (Sokalan) were added as compatibilizers. The PP-based binary and ternary blends, in granular or sheet form, were characterized thermally (Differential Scanning Calorimetry, DSC, and Thermogravimetric analysis, TGA), mechanically (tensile tests), morphologically (scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), and chemically (attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR)). Additionally, the variation in wettability induced by the introduction of the hydrophilic minority components was determined by static contact angle measurements (static contact angle (SCA)), and tests were carried out to determine the barrier properties against oxygen (oxygen transmission rate (OTR)) and molecular iodine. The I₂ leaching of the different blends was compared with that of PP by monitoring the I₂ retention in a buffered PVP-I solution via UV-vis spectroscopy. Overall, the experimental data showed the capability of the minority components in the blends to increase thermal stability as well as act as a barrier to oxygen. Additionally, the PP blend with PVP-I induced a reduction in molecular iodine leaching in comparison with PP. Full article

Reproductive strategies represent a fundamental aspect of life-history evolution and are shaped by environmental heterogeneity across geographic gradients. This study investigated geographic variation in reproductive traits of the swelled vent frog (Nanorana quadranus), a stream-breeding species in China’s Qinling–Daba Mountains. Male reproductive traits were assessed across 10 populations, including testicular asymmetry, relative testis size, sperm morphology, and sperm count. Female reproductive traits were examined in 12 populations, focusing on body mass and absolute fecundity. Results indicated no significant difference in bilateral testicular asymmetry (p > 0.05). Both relative testis size and sperm count increased with latitude. Sperm length correlated positively with testis size. Conversely, female body mass and age increased with altitude, while absolute fecundity was positively correlated with body mass. Environmental analysis revealed that sperm length exhibited significant positive correlations with aspect and seasonal evapotranspiration anomaly (SEA). Relative testis size was regulated by mean diurnal temperature range (Bio2) and precipitation of the wettest month (Bio13). Furthermore, female absolute fecundity correlated with the minimum temperature of the coldest month (Bio6). These findings demonstrate that reproductive strategies in N. quadranus adapt to geographic and environmental gradients, reflecting adaptive plasticity to local ecological pressures. This study advances understanding of amphibian reproductive adaptation and highlights the importance of incorporating environmental factors in life-history research. Full article

Understanding morphological variation and asymmetry in avian limbs provides essential insights into functional anatomy, locomotor behavior, and developmental stability. In this study, we investigated shape and size variation in the feet of quails (Coturnix coturnix) using two-dimensional geometric morphometric methods. A total of 233 animals were analyzed, representing both the left and right feet of male and female individuals. Nine homologous fixed landmarks were digitized on each foot, and configurations were subjected to Generalized Procrustes Analysis, followed by mirroring of right-side landmarks to ensure consistent orientation. Statistical analyses revealed no significant sexual dimorphism in either foot shape or centroid size. Principal Component Analysis indicated that the main shape variation was distributed individually rather than by sex and primarily affected the relative positions of toes and claws. Procrustes ANOVA confirmed that differences between sexes were not greater than expected by chance. Directional and fluctuating asymmetry were evaluated using a bilateral symmetry model to assess bilateral asymmetry. Directional asymmetry indicated consistent left–right differences, while fluctuating asymmetry reflected individual-level developmental instability and comprised the main source of variation. These findings provide a detailed morphological baseline for quail foot structure and highlight the importance of considering asymmetry in studies of avian functional morphology. The approach may also be a reference for future research into developmental stress, locomotor adaptation, or species-specific anatomical patterns. Full article

As apex predators, felids (Felidae) face unresolved phylogenetic controversies due to their recent rapid speciation and remarkable morphological conservatism. Previous studies, often relying on a limited number of genetic markers, were constrained by insufficient data and conflicting phylogenetic signals, leaving these disputes unresolved. Therefore, establishing a robust phylogenetic framework based on larger-scale genomic data is crucial. This study integrated complete mitogenomes from 37 species representing all major felid genera to characterize genomic diversity, selection pressures, and phylogenetic relationships. Results revealed conserved gene content and arrangement patterns but significant intergenic variation in nucleotide composition, with the light-strand encoded ND6 exhibiting pronounced strand-specific bias. Nucleotide diversity was highest in ND4L (Pi = 0.132) and ATP6 (Pi = 0.131), suggesting their utility as novel markers for species delimitation and population studies. Selection pressure analysis indicated strong purifying selection on cytochrome oxidase subunits (e.g., COX1 Ka/Ks = 0.00327) but relaxed constraints on ATP8 (Ka/Ks = 0.12304). Phylogenies reconstructed from the complete 13PCGs + 2rRNAs dataset (showing high congruence between maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods) clearly delineated Felidae into two primary clades (Pantherinae and Felinae), confirming monophyly of all genera and positioning Neofelis nebulosa as the basal lineage within Pantherinae. Crucially, exclusion of ND6 (12PCGs + 2rRNAs) yielded topologies congruent with the complete 13PCGs + 2rRNAs dataset, whereas single-gene or limited multi-gene datasets produced inconsistent trees (particularly at genus-level nodes). This demonstrates that near-complete mitogenomic data (≥12PCGs + 2rRNAs) are essential for reconstructing robust felid phylogenetic frameworks. Our study provides insights into carnivoran mitogenome evolution. Full article

Background: This prospective observational study was conducted to systematically assess immediate changes occurring (within one hour) in corneal endothelial cell morphology and anterior segment parameters following Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy in pseudophakic patients and to analyze the correlation between these changes and laser energy parameters. Methods: A single-arm, within-subject pre–post design was employed to evaluate corneal endothelial morphology (cell density, count, area, coefficient of variation and hexagonal percentage) and anterior chamber parameters (depth, angle, volume) before and one hour after the procedure using specular microscopy and Pentacam analysis. Patient demographics (age), clinical parameters (best corrected visual acuity and intraocular pressure), postoperative-YAG laser interval, and laser energy parameters (energy per shot, pulse count, and total applied energy) were also documented. Results: Thirty-two pseudophakic patients (mean age 56.3 ± 19.2 years) underwent Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy with mean energy per shot of 3.15 ± 1.07 mJ and pulse count of 34.3 ± 20.4. Specular microscopy revealed significant post-procedural decreases in endothelial cell density (2184.05 to 2057.2 cells/mm²; p = 0.006) and increases in average cell area (529.25 ± 242.72 to 587.75 ± 281.09 µm²; p = 0.004) and minimum cell area (199.3 ± 170.62 to 248.35 ± 202.7 µm²; p = 0.035). Corneal topography also decreased significantly in the anterior chamber angle (40.07 ± 10.34 to 35.42 ± 6.78 degrees; p = 0.048), with positive correlations between energy per shot and endothelial cell density (r = 0.557; p = 0.011) and average cell area (r = 0.544; p = 0.013). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy causes immediate, energy-dependent alterations in corneal endothelial density and anterior chamber parameters within one hour post-procedurally. The identification of energy per shot as a key determinant represents a preliminary observation for optimizing laser parameters and reducing potential complications in pseudophakic patients. Full article

Background: The deep head of the masseter muscle (DHMM) is an underrecognized anatomical structure, frequently absent from standard anatomical references and often overlooked in maxillofacial surgical planning. Its morphological variability, spatial complexity, and relationship with neurovascular structures carry significant implications for imaging interpretation, diagnosis, and surgical outcomes. Objective: The objective of this paper is to synthesize current anatomical, embryological, and radiological knowledge on the DHMM, and to introduce a refined morphological classification with direct clinical and surgical relevance. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed, incorporating cadaveric dissections, radiological imaging (MRI, DTI, HRUS, CT), and clinical case reports. Emphasis was placed on anatomical variability, radiological detectability, and surgical accessibility. Based on these findings, a three-type classification with clinically relevant subtypes was formulated and correlated with imaging features and procedural risk. Results: The DHMM can be categorized into three principal types: Type I—classical form with fascial separation; Type II—fused with the medial pterygoid; Type III—segmented into two muscular bellies. Each type may present a subtype b, characterized by neurovascular penetration, which significantly increases surgical risk and alters procedural strategy. MRI and high-resolution ultrasonography were identified as the most reliable modalities for in vivo differentiation, with HRUS providing additional value for dynamic and volumetric assessment. Conclusions: Recognition of DHMM morphology, including high-risk neurovascular subtypes, is essential for accurate diagnosis, surgical planning, and prevention of complications. The proposed classification offers a reproducible framework for imaging standardization, surgical risk stratification, and integration into anatomical atlases and clinical guidelines. Full article

To quantify the spatiotemporal patterns of the water-level variations in the study area, we conducted cluster analysis of the temporally varying measurements across multiple hydrological stations. The temporal trends and change points were analyzed, followed by IHA-RVA quantification of the water-level alterations before and after change points. Cluster analysis demonstrated the following. (1) Hydrological stations segregate into two distinct groups at the Euclidean distance threshold d = 5, and into three clusters at d = 4, confirming the pronounced west–east heterogeneity in the lake. (2) The hydrological alteration degrees exhibit considerable variation across the lake’s sub-lakes (Qili, Muping, South Dongting, East Dongting), with marked heterogeneity persisting even among representative monitoring stations within individual sub-lakes. The water-level regimes in Qili Lake can be partitioned into two distinct periods, before and after the change point, exhibiting the highest hydrological alteration degree across the lake. Representative stations of the other sub-lakes fall into three periods. During the first phase of hydrological alteration, Zhouwenmiao, Jinshi, and Chenglingji exhibit moderate alteration. Throughout the second alteration phase, all the representative stations consistently exhibit moderate alteration, although significant heterogeneity emerges across hydrological indicators among the sub-lakes. (3) Downstream of Yangliutan station, the longitudinal profile exhibits terraced morphology, segmented into three distinct levels by two hydraulic knickpoints. This geomorphic configuration primarily controls both the localized stage reductions and the maintenance of elevated upstream water levels during dry seasons. Confronting the persistent dry-season stage declines at Yingtian Station, enhanced monitoring and conservation of terraced transition zones in South Dongting Lake must be prioritized, with implementation of the zoned control principle for water-level governance and lake management. This study establishes a scientific foundation for the protection and governance of Dongting Lake, thereby advancing sustainable utilization of its water resources. Full article

Purpose: This review aims to synthesize current knowledge of anatomical variations of the popliteofibular ligament (PFL) and evaluate the clinical relevance of the classification system proposed by Olewnik et al. in the context of the diagnosis, surgical treatment, and rehabilitation of posterolateral corner (PLC) injuries. Methods: A comprehensive analysis of anatomical, surgical, and radiological studies concerning the PFL was conducted. The implications of PFL morphological variants were examined across clinical applications, with an emphasis on reconstructive strategies, imaging interpretation, and rehabilitation planning. Emerging research directions, including AI-supported imaging and personalized algorithms, were also explored. Results: Olewnik’s classification identifies three distinct types of PFL, each with unique structural and biomechanical properties. Recognizing these variants enhances intraoperative orientation, facilitates tailored surgical techniques, and supports individualized rehabilitation protocols. Variant-specific biomechanics, identified via cadaveric studies and imaging, are essential for optimizing functional outcomes and minimizing postoperative instability. Furthermore, the classification offers a platform for developing future diagnostic and decision-support tools using artificial intelligence. Conclusions: The Olewnik et al. classification system should be adopted as a modern anatomical standard for the PFL. Its integration into clinical practice has the potential to improve surgical precision, reduce complication rates, and enhance patient-specific treatment planning. This framework also supports future advancements in orthopedic imaging, education, and AI-driven diagnostics. Beyond descriptive anatomy, we provide a pragmatic surgical algorithm for PLC repair/reconstruction that accounts for scar- and fibrosis-dominated fields and the limited bone stock of the fibular head. Full article

This study investigated the effects of the foliar application of sodium silicate (SS) on phytolith formations in Dendrocalamus brandisii (Munro) Kurz. leaves by analyzing the phytolith concentration, morphological parameters, and assemblage compositions across leaves of varying ages and different phenological stages. The results showed that SS significantly increased the phytolith concentration in D. brandisii leaves, showing a trend of old leaves > mature leaves > young leaves. The concentration of phytoliths was the highest at the late shooting stage (November) and the lowest at the dormancy stage (January). August (shooting stage) and May (branching and leafing stage) were the critical periods for phytolith formation and the size and morphological variation. Sodium silicate significantly increased the proportion of saddle, bilobate, and stomatal phytoliths, which might help optimize the silicified structure of leaf epidermal cells and enhance the leaf resistance and light energy utilization efficiency. The results help clarify the mechanism of phytolith formation in different phenological periods of D. brandisii and provide a theoretical basis for the efficient use of silicon fertilizers in bamboo cultivation. Full article

The urban heat island (UHI) effect has become a critical environmental issue affecting urban livability and public health, attracting widespread attention from both academia and society. Although numerous studies have examined the influence of urban characteristics on land surface temperature (LST), most have been restricted to single variables or single time points, and the traditional “urban–rural dichotomy” approach fails to capture intra-urban thermal heterogeneity. To address this limitation, this study integrates the Local Climate Zone (LCZ) framework with machine learning techniques to systematically analyze the diurnal variation patterns of LST across different LCZ types in Beijing and explore the interactive effects of urban characteristic variables on LST. The results show the following: (1) Compact building zones (LCZ 1–3) exhibit significantly higher daytime LST than open building zones (LCZ 4–6), with reduced differences at night; high-rise buildings cool daytime surfaces through shading but increase nighttime LST due to heat storage. (2) Blue–green space variables, such as NDVI and tree coverage (T_PLAND), substantially lower daytime LST through evapotranspiration, but their nighttime cooling effect is weak; cropland coverage (C_PLAND) plays a particularly important role in lowering nighttime LST. (3) Blue–green space and urban form variables exhibit significant interaction effects on LST, with contrasting impacts between day and night. (4) Population activity variables are strongly correlated with increased LST, especially at night, when their warming effects are more prominent. This study reveals the relative importance and nonlinear relationships of different variables across diurnal cycles, providing a scientific basis for optimizing blue–green space configuration, improving urban morphology, regulating human activity, and formulating effective UHI mitigation strategies to support the development of more sustainable urban environments. Full article

Understanding genetic variation in commercially valuable tree species is essential for improving breeding and conservation efforts. This study investigates genetic variation, heritability, and trait relationships in Pterocarpus macrocarpus, a vital hardwood species for Thailand’s reforestation initiatives. We evaluated growth (height and diameter), morphology (biomass dry weight and specific leaf weight), and physiological traits (net photosynthesis [A], transpiration rate [E], and water-use efficiency [WUE]) across 112 open-pollinated families from six natural populations under controlled nursery conditions over 30 weeks. Using a randomised complete block design, variance and covariance analyses were conducted to estimate genetic parameters. Seedling survival reached 95%, confirming favourable conditions for genetic expression. There were significant differences among populations and families within populations in growth and biomass. In contrast, physiological traits showed notable family-level variation (A, E, WUE) and only population effects for WUE. Residual variance was predominant across traits, indicating considerable within-family variation. Growth and biomass exhibited moderate to high heritability (individual: 0.39–1.00; family: 0.61–0.90), while specific leaf weight and shoot-to-root ratio had lower heritability at the individual level. Physiological traits showed low to moderate heritabilities (individual: 0.26–0.43; family: 0.47–0.62), with maternal effects via seed weight significantly influencing early growth. The heritability of height decreased over time, whereas the heritability of diameter remained stable. Strong genetic correlations among growth and biomass suggest the potential for combined selection gains. However, physiological traits show weak or no correlations with growth, highlighting their independent genetic control. Variation at the population level in growth and WUE may reflect adaptive responses to seed-source environments. Our findings support the use of nursery-based screening as a cost-effective method for the early identification of high-quality families. WUE is a promising focus for breeding programs targeting drought-prone regions. This study provides key insights for advancing the genetic improvement and conservation of P. macrocarpus, emphasizing the importance of incorporating physiological traits into breeding and conservation strategies. Full article