Analyzes of Micromorphology and Elemental Composition of Pollen of Three Types of Male Sterile Lines in Brassica napus L. by SEM-EDS
To elucidate the characteristics of pollen abortion in male sterile lines, scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry technology analysis (SEM-EDS) was employed to compare and analyze the morphological structure and mineral element content of pollen of 219A cytoplasmic male sterile line and double haploid DH01A male sterile line, as well as those induced by chemical hybridization agent SQ-1 male sterility in Brassica napus. The results showed that the pollen grains of the three types of male sterile lines all exhibited distinct irregular abortions. Among these, the physiological male sterile pollen induced by SQ-1 was the smallest average size of 320.14 ± 59.63 μm, with severe pollen deformities and the highest pollen abortion rate. The pollen grains of the DH01A male sterile line were smaller with a size of 451.38 ± 9.70 μm and exhibited a deformed elliptical shape. The pollen grains of the 219A male sterile line had an average size of 633.94 ± 16.82 μm, which showed a relatively small difference in size compared to the fertile line, but the pollen was deformed and twisted into a long spherical shape. Moreover, the pollen exine sculpturing of all three types of sterile lines showed different degrees of damage to the reticular structure, perforation disruption, deformity and reduction in the number of colpi, and accumulation of granules in the perforation. These phenomena may be the causes of male sterility and abortion in rapeseed. Meanwhile, the EDS analysis of mineral elements in three types of male sterile lines indicated that the content of calcium (Ca) was significantly higher than that in the normal fertile line, while potassium (K) levels were lower in all three types of male sterile lines than in the fertile line. Additionally, magnesium (Mg) enrichment was detected in the pollen of the SQ-1 induced male sterile line, whereas Mg was not detected on the outer wall of the pollen from the genetic male sterile lines 219A and DH01A. Notably, sulfur (S) was only present in the genetic male sterile lines 219A and DH01A. These results suggested that there were significant differences in the morphological characteristics, elemental composition and content of pollen grains among different types of male sterility. These findings provide a foundation for elucidating the mechanisms underlying pollen abortion in male sterile lines.
Anatomical Adaptations and Metal Sequestration Strategies for Improved Yield Stability and Stress Tolerance in Wheat Cultivars Under Heavy Metal Contamination
Heavy metal contamination from industrial activities threatens global food security by causing phytotoxic effects in crops like wheat. This study examines the impact of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Pb) on the physiological, anatomical, and agronomic traits of two wheat cultivars, Pak-13 and SKD-1, through hydroponic and field experiments. In the hydroponic experiment, plants were grown for 21 days in metal-contaminated solutions. Anatomical studies revealed significant changes under heavy metal stress, such as increased thickness of the root endodermis, xylem, cortex, and stellar cells. Cd exposure caused enlarged parenchyma in Pak-13, while Ni and Pb led to cortical dissolutions in SKD-1. Both cultivars showed thickening of leaf tissues under metal exposure, with SKD-1 displaying better structural adaptations. In the field experiment, agronomic results indicated significant reductions in grain yield (GY) under heavy metal stress. Pak-13 experienced GY reductions of 60.94% (Cd), 91.96% (Ni), 62.68% (Cr), 27.45% (As), and 92.62% (Pb), while SKD-1 showed declines of 2.40% (Cd), 77.48% (Ni), 66.83% (Cr), and 86.76% (Pb). The field data also highlighted a decrease in traits such as tillers per plant (T/P) and spike length per spike (SL/S) for Pak-13, whereas SKD-1 exhibited increased grain yield under As stress and enhanced biomass yield under Cd, Ni, and Pb stress, reflecting better tolerance. This study highlights the importance of anatomical adaptations in understanding metal stress tolerance, with SKD-1 proving more resilient. These findings are essential for breeding wheat cultivars with enhanced tolerance to metal toxicity, contributing to sustainable agriculture in contaminated areas.
Effect of Different Pulse Current Parameters on the Formability of 2A97-T3 Al-Li Alloy
The Al-Li alloy has the advantages of low density, high specific strength, good weldability, good fracture toughness, strong fatigue crack propagation resistance, and excellent corrosion resistance. However, the plasticity of Al-Li alloy is poor at room temperature, so it formability is not ideal. In order to solve the problem, the electric pulse-assisted forming test is carried out on the 2A97-T3 Al-Li alloy to explore the forming properties. The mechanism of the forming perfoemance is revealed by the stress-strain curve macroscopically and the microstructure morphology microscopically. The results show that the Joule heating effect and the electron wind effect are generated in electric pulse-assisted forming. As a result, the yield strength and the tensile strength of the 2A97-T3 Al-Li alloy are significantly reduced. The Joule heating effect is enhanced due to the large pulse current intensity at the necking part, which can easily cause overburning. The grain size increases due to overburning. The elongation at break decreases significantly. After conducting a certain number of electric pulse-assisted forming tests, the appropriate processing parameters are obtained as follows: the pulse current intensity is 450 A, the duty cycle is 60.0%, the frequency is 50 Hz, and the forming rate is 0.001 s. The yield strength of Al-Li alloy is 89 MPa, and the elongation to fracture is 13.2% under that condition. The formability is obviously improved. Besides, the dynamic recovery and the dynamic recrystallization of the alloy occur.
Optimizing Detection Schemes for Broadband Pump-Probe Microscopy
Although similar to more commonly implemented single wavelength approaches, broadband pump-probe or transient absorption microscopy presents unique experimental challenges due to the simultaneous requirements of a broadband probe pulse and a small sample volume. Here we provide an in-depth analysis of broadband detection schemes and their common noise sources to provide strategies for balancing the conflicting needs of high sensitivity and low probe fluence. We show that broadband pump-probe microscopy is atypically sensitive to laser shot noise and therefore, low pump on/off modulation frequencies, on the order of 100 s of Hz to a few kHz, are essential to measure small ( ) amplitude transient spectra while remaining in the perturbative limit.
Epigallocatechin-Gallate Methacrylate as a Novel Addition to Pit and Fissure Sealants: An In Vitro Analysis of Physical Properties and Microscopy
To enhance the longevity of resin sealants on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth, improvements are needed in antibacterial properties, mechanical resistance, and bond strength to enamel. This study investigated the effectiveness of incorporating epigallocatechin-gallate methacrylate (EGCG-M) into a pit and fissure sealant (SEAL, PacSeal) by assessing its penetration depth, degree of conversion, color properties, and surface morphology. Thirty blocks of bovine enamel were divided into three groups: SEAL (control), SEAL with neat EGCG (E0), and SEAL with EGCG-M. Analyses were conducted including penetration depth with confocal microscopy, degree of conversion using FTIR-ATR, color analysis using CIELab, and surface morphology via 3D laser microscope. The EGCG-M group exhibited the highest degree of conversion (44.9% ± 2.1%) compared to the SEAL (41.7% ± 2.1%) and E0 (42.1% ± 1.1%) groups (p = 0.040). Deeper penetration was observed in the EGCG-M group (9.7 ± 10 μm), followed by SEAL (-0.1 ± 12.2 μm) and E0 (-5.3 ± 9.7 μm) groups (p = 0.002). Although no significant difference was found in L* (lightness) coordinate values between the groups (p = 0.060), the EGCG-M group exhibited a more heterogeneous surface. Therefore, incorporating EGCG methacrylate into the sealant improved the degree of conversion and penetration capability without notable changes in color.
Mechanical Performance of Two NiTi Rotary Files: Effects of Alloy and Design of Fatigue, Torsion, Bending, and Fracture Behavior
This study evaluated the mechanical performance of nickel-titanium (NiTi) endodontic instruments with identical tip diameters but different alloy compositions and designs. The study compared two geometric configurations of WaveOne Gold instruments (Respectively, WO I and WO II) manufactured using three different NiTi alloys: SE-Wire (non-heat-treated superelastic NiTi), M-Wire, and gold alloy. WO I instruments have a variable taper (25/0.08) and dual convex triangular cross-section, while WO II instruments feature a reduced taper (25/0.07), square cross-section, and shorter handle. Six groups were tested for cyclic fatigue resistance, torsional strength, bending behavior, deformation, and compressive load. Fracture patterns were examined via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A two-way ANOVA evaluated interactions between alloy type and instrument design. Alloy heat treatment and design significantly affected performance. Gold alloy instruments showed superior flexibility and the highest time-to-fracture (TTF) values, particularly in WO II. WO II files required less pressure to navigate canals and demonstrated better bending adaptability due to their reduced taper and square cross-section. In contrast, SE-Wire instruments had the lowest fatigue resistance and highest pressure loads, indicating their austenitic phase and lack of thermal treatment. WO I instruments had higher torsional strength but fractured at lower angular deflections. SEM revealed distinct fracture mechanisms based on alloy and generation. WO II instruments outperformed WO I in flexibility, cyclic fatigue resistance, and canal tracking, particularly with thermomechanically treated alloys like Gold. The relationship between alloy composition and instrument design is crucial for optimizing performance and minimizing procedural risks.
Method for Lignin Analysis in Wood by Fluorescence Microscopy
Native Amazonian species present high anatomical variation which is reflected in their lignin content. This study tested different lignin fluorescence treatments and fluorescence intensity processing methods in native Amazonian woods. Validating the fluorescence technique for lignin analysis included relating the total wood lignin content to the fluorescence intensity emitted by lignin in histological sections. Seven native Amazonian species were analyzed. Wood lignin content was obtained by the Klason method. Four treatments were used for fluorescence in the histological sections: autofluorescence (in natura and without extractives), basic fuchsin and Mäule. Images obtained with the fluorescence microscope were processed using ImageJ, applying three different methodologies to obtain fluorescence intensity-two using an integrated density formula and one automatically. Autofluorescence was the most effective treatment for relating fluorescence intensity and lignin content on a slide without extractive, especially when analyzed automatically (Method 3). It showed the second highest coefficient of determination (R = 76.22%) and correlation (r = 0.87), and better performance due to its automation in ImageJ, ensuring speed, reproducibility and result standardization. Results indicate the reliability and safety of fluorescence analysis for studying lignin at the cellular level.
Light and Electron Microscopic Investigations of the Morphology of the Salivary Glands, Digestive Tract and Malpighian Tubules of the Aquatic Bug, Nepa cinerea Linnaeus, 1758 (Hemiptera: Nepidae)
The morphological characteristics of the internal systems in insects are considered important for understanding their biology. This research reports the morphological structures of the salivary glands, digestive tract, and Malpighian tubules of Nepa cinerea, an aquatic predatory insect, using light and scanning electron microscopies. The salivary gland is structurally complex and consists of a paired principal and accessory salivary glands and ducts. The former are small anterior and larger posterior lobes. The accessory salivary gland has both vesicular and tubular structures. The digestive system is divided into three main regions: foregut (pharynx, esophagus), midgut (ventriculus 1, 2, 3), and hindgut (ileum, rectum). The foregut is surrounded by a cuticular intima, a single layer of squamous epithelium with flattened nuclei, and a muscle layer. The midgut consists of a single layer of columnar epithelial cells characterized by chromatin-dense nuclei and a striated border. The epithelium is supported by the basal membrane. The muscles are external to the epithelium. Regenerative cells are located in the base of the epithelial folds. The hindgut is lined with an intima, a single layered epithelium and a muscle layer. Four Malpighian tubules connect at the junction between the midgut and hindgut. These structures are composed of cuboidal epithelial cells characterized by secretion granules, densely packed chromatin in the nuclei, and an apical striated brush border. These findings offer valuable baseline data for future morphological, physiological, and phylogenetic studies on aquatic Hemiptera and contribute to a deeper understanding of insect internal anatomy.
Physical Training Counteracts Mitochondrial Alterations in Myoblasts and Myotubes Derived From Muscle Satellite Cells of Old Mice: An In Vitro Ultrastructural Study
Skeletal muscle is a complex organ that undergoes aging through a multifactorial process leading to muscle atrophy and strength reduction. Mitochondrial dysfunctions prove to be a critical contributor to skeletal muscle aging, affecting the regenerative functions and differentiation of muscle satellite cells (MuSCs). Physical exercise is a nonpharmacological approach that positively affects mitochondrial functions, promoting increased mitochondrial biogenesis, enzyme activities, and respiration in the aging skeletal muscle. By means of morphological and morphometrical analyses at transmission electron microscopy, this in vitro study identified the fine structural modifications induced in mitochondria of MuSC-derived myoblasts by a long-term adapted physical exercise applied to old mice, and verified the persistence of the exercise-driven changes in the myoblast-derived myotubes. In myoblasts, physical exercise decreased mitochondrial volume while increasing mitochondrial elongation and cristae extension in comparison to the sedentary condition, a mitochondrial remodeling suggestive of higher functionality. In myotubes, physical exercise increased mitochondrial volume and decreased cristae extension, partially reverting the age-associated alterations. These findings demonstrate that physical exercise administered in elderly exerts positive effects on mitochondria of the progeny of resident MuSCs.
Effects of Metallic Nanoparticles Treatments on the Development of the Pool Frog, Pelophylax lessonae (Amphibia: Ranidae)
The effects of treatments of pool frog embryos of Pelophylax lessonae with engineered zerovalent nanoparticles of Fe Co, and Ni at increasing concentrations (½ LC, LC, and 2 × LC) were studied at macroscopical and microscopical levels, focusing on the epidermis that is often subject to physiological changes in response to environmental factors. Total body length and eye diameter were statistically higher in the control groups. A significantly higher percentage of embryos in the controls reached later Gosner developmental stages (19-23) than the treatments. Malformations such as ventral blister, microcephalia, bent body axis, and microphthalmia were significantly more frequent in the Co and Ni treatments than in the controls. In treated epidermis, ciliated, goblet, and small secretory cells resulted in a significantly larger volume than the same cell types in control embryos. At the ultrastructural level, ciliated cells showed stuck cilia and mitochondrial swelling, as well as cytoplasmic inclusions. Small secretory cells exhibited a significantly higher number of secreting vacuoles, suggesting an increased secretion. In conclusion, nanoparticles affect the development of frog embryos in multiple ways, even if the mechanisms are still mostly unknown.
Ultrastructure of the Secondary Male Genital Organ of Platycnemis dealbata (Zygoptera: Platycnemididae)
In this study, the secondary male genitalia of Platycnemis dealbata Selys in Selys & Hagen, 1850 was examined for the first time using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The research revealed the ultrastructural features and various sensory structures of these organs. Two main types of sensilla were identified in the secondary genital organ: putative chemical sensilla and hair sensilla that detect mechanical stimuli. The study examined structures such as the ligula head, anterior and posterior hamuli, lamina anterior, and lamina batilliformes in detail. Four projections were observed on the ligula head, and it has been suggested that these projections play a role in sperm transport. Additionally, the hair sensilla on the sternum assist in detecting contact with the female and in anchoring during mating. This research compared the genital structure of P. dealbata with other Platycnemis species and revealed some similarities and differences. The study contributes to our knowledge of the reproductive biology and evolutionary adaptations of the Odonata taxon by presenting new hypotheses about the functions of these complex structures.
In Vitro Studies of Polylactic Acid/Polyhydroxyalkanoate/Eggshell Based Hydroxyapatite Biopolymer Composite for Bone Implant Applications
Bioactive implant materials are those that can chemically and mechanically interface with live bone. Even metals, ceramics, and polymers that are normally bio-inert can be made to exhibit this quality by undergoing certain surface treatments. Immersion experiments in SBF, whose composition is comparable to that of human plasma, can be used for in vitro testing. As a result, an apatite coating may grow on the surface of the material, and the existence of this bone-like "biomimetic skin" is thought to predict bone-bonding capacity in vivo. Hydroxyapatite is a potential bioactive substance for bone tissue development and repair. However, its poor hardness limits its use in load-bearing applications. Recent research indicates that polylactic acid and polyhydroxyalkanoate have potential biocompatibility and can be used in bone implant applications. The current research aims to create biomimetic polylacticacid/polyhydroxyalkanoate/hydroxyapatite composite for bone tissue applications by integrating the biological recognition of natural polymers with the distinct interconnecting porosity and bio imitating features of bone, such as hydroxyapatite. The resultant PLA/PHA/10%HAP biopolymer composite was analyzed for biocompatibility by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The XRD analysis shows that the biopolymer composite's surface contains peaks indicative of an apatite phase. The development of an apatite layer is seen by SEM pictures. Ca/P ratio was calculated and found to be extremely near to 1.67, the value for original HAP, suggesting that EDX elemental analysis successfully confirmed the existence of calcium and phosphate components.
Comparative Evaluation of Alumina, Hydroxyapatite, and Their Combination for Dental Enamel Cavity Cutting in an Air Abrasion System: An In Vitro SEM Study
Dental air abrasion is a minimally invasive technique using abrasive particles to remove carious tooth structure. Alumina particles, commonly preferred due to their cutting efficiency, pose toxicity risks if inhaled. This study evaluated hydroxyapatite (HA) and an alumina + HA combination as alternatives to alumina for enamel cutting efficiency. Extracted human third molars with sound enamel (N = 30) were divided into three groups: (1) alumina 29 μm (control), (2) HA, and (3) alumina + HA. Morphological analysis of powders and cavity cutting performance were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Alumina particles were coarse and angular, HA particles were rounded, and alumina + HA showed mixed morphology on SEM analysis. Cavity cutting results showed alumina produced the deepest cavities (mean: 2.5 mm), followed by alumina + HA (mean: 2.12 mm) and HA alone (mean: 0.75 mm). Statistically significant differences were detected between alumina and HA (p = 0.0003) and alumina + HA and HA (p = 0.008), but no significant differences between alumina and alumina + HA (p > 0.99) were observed. SEM analysis of the shape of the cavities revealed cylindrical shapes for alumina and alumina + HA groups and conical shapes for the HA group. The alumina + HA combination demonstrated effective enamel cutting efficiency while the presence of HA could be potentially useful for remineralization, presenting a safer alternative to pure alumina. Further in vivo studies are recommended to validate these findings.
A Novel Hybrid Software-Assisted Method to Evaluate Quantitatively Corneal Endothelium From Light Microscopy Images
Light (LM) and specular microscopies (SM) are standard techniques used by eye banks during corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) and morphology evaluation. This study aimed to develop a novel Hybrid method (HY) that integrates the benefits of both SM and LM while minimizing their drawbacks. A total of 283 endothelial images from LM and SM were analyzed from 31 corneas. For HY analysis, LM images were processed using SM-dedicated software to semi-automatically determine ECD, CV% (coefficient of variation), and HEX% (hexagonality). Agreements between LM, SM, and HY, as well as inter-operator bias, were assessed using the Bland-Altman analysis. Evaluability of corneas with LM, SM, and HY was recorded during 311 examinations on 70 corneas. HY agreed with SM in ECD determination, while LM differed from HY (bias: 134 cells/mm) and SM (bias: 115 cells/mm). HY showed agreement with SM in HEX% determination, while a bias of 3.4% was observed in CV%. Inter-operator variability analysis showed significant differences in LM evaluations (ECD, EC morphology score). For HY, no significant inter-operator bias was obtained in ECD and HEX%, whereas CV% displayed a significant bias (3.1%). Corneal evaluability was significantly higher in LM and HY (both 96.5%) than in SM (72.7%). HY enabled quantitative ECD and morphology investigation of corneal endothelia using LM-obtained images. HY, SM, and LM techniques statistically agreed in ECD and morphology examinations, or showed clinically acceptable bias. The HY method demonstrated lower inter-operator variability than LM and higher evaluability than SM.
Microscopic Observation and Crystal Phase Composition Study of Margaritifera Concha and Its Calcined Products
As a key representative of marine traditional Chinese medicine, Margaritifera Concha is commonly processed by calcination. However, significant differences in processing methods and quality standards have led to considerable variations in the quality of decoction pieces. Based on the theory of "quality evaluation through morphological identification," this study investigates the microstructure and crystal phase composition of Margaritifera Concha and its calcined products, aiming to establish a new quality control approach distinct from traditional chemical index-based models. The microstructure of the "brick wall-cement-brick wall" pattern in Margaritifera Concha was examined using scanning electron microscopy and microscopic computed tomography, followed by 3D reconstruction and porosity calculations. The crystal phase composition was analyzed using x-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results indicate that the calcination of Margaritifera Concha is closely associated with changes in its microstructural characteristics, and porosity can serve as a quantitative index for assessing the processing degree of decoction pieces.
Comparison of Mouthpart Sensilla of Two Rapeseed Pests (Xenostrongylus variegatus and Brassicogethes aeneus) Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)
Xenostrongylus variegatus (Nitidulidae: Nitidulinae) and Brassicogethes aeneus (Nitidulidae: Meligethinae) are two significant rapeseed pests in China. The former primarily feeds on leaves, while the latter exclusively targets flowers. Insect mouthparts are essential for feeding, with sensilla playing a critical role in food detection. This study compares the mouthpart sensilla of these two pests using scanning electron microscopy for the first time. Results revealed seven types (23 subtypes) of sensilla in male X. variegatus, seven types (21 subtypes) in female, and seven types (18 subtypes) in both male and female B. aeneus. Differences in the types, quantities, and distributions of sensilla were noted, with preliminary inferences made regarding their functions. These findings provide a foundation for further research into feeding behaviors, sensory systems, and integrated pest management strategies for rapeseed pests.
Toxicological Impact of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Microfragments and Microfibers on the Gut of Zebrafish (Danio rerio, Hamilton, 1822): Insights Into Gastrointestinal Health
Plastic has been recognized as a major toxicological problem, but the recent detection of microplastics (MPs) in human fluids and tissues has raised global concern. MPs, mainly fibers and fragments, have been found in oceans, rivers, and lakes. Due to their small size (< 5 mm), aquatic organisms can accidentally ingest them and may ultimately reach humans through the food chain. This study assessed the gut response of Danio rerio exposed to different concentrations and shapes-microfibers (M.Fb.) and microfragments (M.Fg.)-polyethylene terephthalate (PET) MPs via feeding. Adult fish (n = 114) were exposed to 30 MPs for 24 h (acute toxicity) and to 1 or 6 MPs per feed per day for 15 and 30 days (chronic toxicity). The acute test revealed longer gut retention time for M.Fb. than M.Fg. Chronic exposure led to the detection of M.Fg. in gut sections. Histopathological analysis showed coalescence of villi, epithelial detachment, epithelial degeneration, muscle layer displacement, dysplasia, hypertrophy, hyperplasia, and necrosis, particularly at 6 MPs per feed. The histopathological alteration index (HAI) indicated greater damage with higher MP exposure, especially from M.Fb. Overall, these results suggest that in addition to concentration, the shape of the MPs also influences their impact on fish gut health, with M.Fb. exhibiting more severe effects of M.Fg.on the gut.
Deciphering Camellia sinensis Leaf Extract-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles as a Colorimetric Sensor for Mercury Detection in Potable Water
The current study explores the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using green tea (GT) extract (Camellia sinensis) and its application in detecting mercury ions in potable water samples. The biologically synthesized GT-AgNPs were characterized through a series of spectral analyses. The UV-visible spectroscopy of the GT-AgNPs exhibited a λ max at 417 nm. Fourier Transform-Infrared spectroscopy indicated the presence of functional groups (hydroxyl, amines, alkynes, esters, ethers, and thiols) involved in the capping and stabilization of AgNPs. X-ray Diffraction analysis validated the crystalline structure. Electron microscopic studies revealed that synthesized GT-AgNPs are spherical-shaped. Dynamic light scattering indicated an average particle size of 86.3 nm. The zeta potential value > -30 mV suggested that GT-AgNPs are more stable. The detection of Hg through colorimetric analysis demonstrated that the introduction of GT-AgNPs into varying concentrations of Hg ions resulted in a significant color change from brownish yellow to a colorless solution, thereby recording the Limit of Detection to be 0.6 μM and the Limit of Quantification as 1.82 μM. Results of the recovery study using various micromolar (0.25-0.75 μM) concentrations of Hg ions spiked with drinking and tap water showed a relative standard deviation of less than 5% and a recovery rate > 91%. Considering the sensitivity and selectivity of GT-AgNPs, this calorimetric assay clearly emphasized its potential in detecting Hg ions in contaminated aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, the green tea extracts used to fabricate AgNPs presented several advantages: simple, low-cost, and one-step, with no harmful organic solvents.
Effects of Extender and Packaging Devices on Ultrastructural Changes and Reproductive Index of Cryopreserved Spermatozoa of Ossimi Rams
Sperm cryopreservation is a critical technique for improving the efficacy of artificial insemination in sheep breeding programs. This study evaluated the effects of different extenders and packaging methods on post-thaw ram sperm quality, ultrastructure, and potential reproductive performance. Semen was collected from five healthy Ossimi rams and extended using three cryopreservation media: Tris-egg yolk (Tris-EY), Tris supplemented with 1% soybean lecithin (Tris-SBL), or Tris supplemented with 2 mM butylated hydroxytoluene (Tris-BHT). The extended semen was then packaged in either plastic straws or pellets and cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen. Post-thaw sperm quality was assessed by evaluating progressive motility, viability, and membrane integrity. Sperm ultrastructure was examined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and reproductive index. A two-way ANOVA analysis was used to study the effects of the extender and the method of packing. Cryopreservation using straws significantly improved post-thaw sperm quality compared to pellets, demonstrating higher progressive motility (p = 0.003), viability (p < 0.0001), and membrane integrity (p < 0.0001). However, neither the packaging method nor the extender type significantly affected the plasma membrane status, acrosome integrity, or mitochondrial, tail, and nuclear damage (p > 0.05). Ultrastructural analysis confirmed that straws, regardless of the extender used (Tris-EY, Tris-SBL, or Tris-BHT), effectively preserved sperm ultrastructure, including the nucleus, head, acrosome, plasma membrane, and mitochondria. The methods of packaged and extender types did not significantly affect the conception rate and litter size in sheep (p > 0.05). However, it is worth noting that Tris-SBL in straws had the highest conception rate (85.7%) and litter size (1.5 per ewe), while Tris-BHT in pellets had the lowest values (71.4% and 1.2, respectively). This study confirmed that plastic straw packaging significantly improved post-thaw sperm quality. While Tris-EY showed higher reproductive performance, further research is needed to establish statistical significance in pregnancy rates and litter size.
Xception Convolutional Deep Maxout Network for Enhanced Breast Cancer Classification Using Histopathological Images
Globally, breast cancer represents the leading cancer type, with millions of women impacted annually. The success of breast cancer treatment relies heavily on timely detection and precise tumor classification. The classification of breast cancer has gained considerable importance in Deep Learning (DL) and medical research with the development of medical imaging techniques, like histopathological imaging. Many existing DL schemes suffer from overfitting and endure difficulties in effectively mining the key features from high-resolution images with subtle variations. Hence, the Xception Convolutional Deep Maxout Network (Xcov-DMN) is developed to classify breast cancer. At the initial stage, the Mean-Shift Filter is applied to the input histopathological image. Following this, the White Blood Cell Network (WBC-Net) is employed for blood cell segmentation with the Balanced Cross-Entropy (BCE) and Focal Loss for ensuring precise segmentation. Next, Colored Histograms, shape features, Haralick Texture Features, and Complete Local Binary Pattern (CLBP) features are excerpted. Consequently, the developed Xcov-DMN is utilized to classify breast cancer. Xcov-DMN is the combination of the Deep Maxout Network (DMN), Fractional Calculus (FC), and Xception Convolutional Neural Network (XCovNet). Moreover, with learning data at 90%, the Xcov-DMN achieved the highest accuracy of 92.755%, True Negative Rate (TNR) of 91.977%, and True Positive Rate (TPR) of 94.765%.
Comprehensive Structural Characterization of the Esophageo-Gastric Tube in the Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix): Histological, Histochemical, and Ultrastructural Insights
The esophagus and stomach of nine adult healthy hooded crows (Corvus cornix) were collected for light and scanning electron microscopes (SEM) as well as histomorphometric analysis. SEM showed that the esophageal mucosa has round-shaped gland openings, extending to its junction with the proventriculus. The proventriculus luminal surface had roughly circular gland openings surrounded by simple mucosal folds that appeared as raised tubular structures. A cuticle at the proventricular-gizzard junction was present. The gizzard cuticle appeared as thread-like rods, while the tubular gastric glands resembled broccoli sprouts. Histologically, the esophageal mucosa exhibited argyrophilic endocrine cells within both the lining epithelium and glandular epithelium. Numerous telocytes surrounded the secretory acini of the superficial and deep proventricular glands and encircled blood vessels in the lamina propria. Columnar to cuboidal (oxynticopeptic) cells were abundant in the deep proventricular glands. The most superficial epithelial cells of the gizzard contained excessive metachromatic granules. Telocytes were detected around the glandular secretory acini within the lamina propria and muscle fibers of the gizzard. The results of the current study suggest that the esophageo-gastric tube histomorphology in hooded crows revealed some characteristics that might be attributed to adaptation to a diverse urban and rural diet.
