Morphological Structure Research Articles

Measurement of distances and locations of thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies from CT scans in cases of spinal deformation

BackgroundSpinal deformations, except for acute injuries, are among the most frequent reasons for visiting an orthopaedic specialist and musculoskeletal treatment in adults and adolescents. Data on the morphology and anatomical structures of the spine are therefore of interest to orthopaedics, physicians, and medical scientists alike, in the broad field from diagnosis to therapy and in research.MethodsAlong the course of developing supplementary methods that do not require the use of ionizing radiation in the assessment of scoliosis, twenty CT scans from females and males with various severity of spinal deformations and body shape have been analysed with respect to the transverse distances between the vertebral body and the spinous process end tip and the skin, respectively, at thoracic and lumbar vertebral levels. Further, the locations of the vertebral bodies have been analysed in relation to the patient’s individual body shape and shown together with those from other patients by normalization to the area encompassed by the transverse body contour.ResultsWhile the transverse distance from the vertebral body to the skin varies between patients, the distances from the vertebral body to the spinous processes end tips tend to be rather similar across different patients of the same gender. Tables list the arithmetic mean distances for all thoracic and lumbar vertebral levels and for different regions upon grouping into mild, medium, and strong spinal deformation and according to the range of spinal deformation.ConclusionsThe distances, the clustering of the locations of the vertebral bodies as a function of the vertebral level, and the trends therein could in the future be used in context with biomechanical modeling of a patient’s individual spinal deformation in scoliosis assessment using 3D body scanner images during follow-up examinations.

Symmetry Engineering of Epitaxial Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Ultrathin Films.

Robust ferroelectricity in HfO2-based ultrathin films has the potential to revolutionize nonvolatile memory applications in nanoscale electronic devices because of their compatibility with the existing Si technology. However, to fully exploit the potential of ferroelectric HfO2-based thin films, it is crucial to develop strategies for the controlled stabilization of various HfO2-based polymorphs in nanoscale heterostructures. This study demonstrates how substrate-orientation-induced anisotropic strain can engineer the crystal symmetry, structural domain morphology, and growth orientation of ultrathin Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) films. Epitaxial ultrathin HZO films were grown on the heterostructures of (001)- and (110)-oriented La2/3Sr1/3MnO3/SrTiO3 (LSMO/STO) substrate. Various structural analyses revealed that the (110)-oriented substrate promotes a higher degree of structural order (crystallinity) with improved stability of the (111)-oriented orthorhombic phase (Pca21) of HZO. Conversely, the (001)-oriented substrate not only induces a distorted orthorhombic structure but also facilitates the partial stabilization of nonpolar phases. Electrical measurements revealed robust ferroelectric properties in epitaxial thin films without any wake-up effect, where the well-ordered crystal symmetry stabilized by STO(110) facilitated better ferroelectric characteristics. This study suggests that tuning the epitaxial growth of ferroelectric HZO through substrate orientation can improve the stability of the metastable ferroelectric orthorhombic phase and thereby offer a better understanding of device applications.

Research Progress of New Generation of Aluminum–Lithium Alloys Alloying

Aluminum–lithium alloy, being the lightest aluminum‐based alloy, holds significant potential for applications in the aerospace and military sectors. Currently, alloying treatment stands as a crucial method for enhancing the comprehensive performance of aluminum–lithium alloy. This article provides an overview of the production process of aluminum–lithium alloys, encompassing smelting and deformation processing characteristics. Additionally, it outlines the developmental history of the chemical composition for the primary grades of aluminum–lithium alloy, detailing the copper (Cu) and lithium (Li) content of the main alloying elements. And discusses the influence of various microalloying elements on the alloy's properties. Additionally, it summarizes the structure, properties, and precipitation morphology of the three primary strengthening phases formed by the alloying of aluminum–lithium alloys: T1 (), (), and (). The analysis also examines the impact of anisotropy on the mechanical properties of the primary dispersion. Finally, the article addresses the challenges involved in alloying aluminum–lithium alloys and proposes key research directions for element composition design.

Uncovering the Potential of Industrial Waste: Turning Discarded Resources into Sustainable Advanced Materials

Abstract To identify solutions for utilizing industrial wastes (slag, sludge, fly ash, and bottom ash) in the development of pro-environmental systems, this paper reviews existing literature and explores material characterization methods. A review analysis was conducted to uncover their potential, and it was found that many utilizations can be made to recycle them into sustainable materials. Structure characterization, optical-dielectric function, and morphology analysis were analyzed to confirm the recent review. Structural properties are represented by crystallite size and crystallinity, where nickel slag shows the smallest distribution (55±10) nm with the highest crystallinity (25.42%), indicating its association with uniformity of response to external disturbances and micro-structural stability. From the analysis of optical and dielectric functions via Kramers Kronig relation, the widening of ∆(LO-TO) was shown by fly ash and slag indicating stable bonding suitable as x-ray shielding and sensor, while high electron loss functions were shown by sludge and bottom ash indicating high potential electronic transition performance. Based on their chemical and physical properties, these industrial wastes are not limited as construction materials and can even be upgraded to more advanced development materials.

Hypertonic saline- and detergent-accelerated EDTA-based decalcification better preserves mRNA of bones

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), a classically used chelating agent of decalcification, maintains good morphological details, but its slow decalcification limits its wider applications. Many procedures have been reported to accelerate EDTA-based decalcification, involving temperature, concentration, sonication, agitation, vacuum, microwave, or combination. However, these procedures, concentrating on purely tissue-outside physical factors to increase the chemical diffusion, do not enable EDTA to exert its full capacity due to tissue intrinsic chemical resistances around the diffusion passage. The resistances, such as tissue inner lipids and electric charges, impede the penetration of EDTA. We hypothesized that delipidation and shielding electric charges would accelerate EDTA-based penetration and the subsequent decalcification. The hypothesis was verified by the observation of speedy penetration of EDTA with additives of detergents and hypertonic saline, testing on tissue-mimicking gels of collagen and adult mouse bones. Using a 26% EDTA mixture with the additives at 45°C, a conventional 7-day decalcification of adult mouse ankle joints could be completed within 24 h while the tissue morphological structure, antigenicity, enzymes, and DNA were well preserved, and mRNA better retained compared to using 15% EDTA at room temperature. The addition of hypertonic saline and detergents to EDTA decalcification is a simple, rapid, and inexpensive method that doesn't disrupt the current histological workflow. This method is equally or even more effective than the currently most used decalcification methods in preserving the morphological details of tissues. It can be highly beneficial for the related community.

Enhanced performance of 1D rod shaped Zirconium (Zr) decorated over spherical shaped Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures for NO2 gas

1D rod shaped Zirconium (Zr) was decorated over spherical shaped Zinc (ZnO) nanostructures, using hydrothermal technique. The as-synthesized nanocomposites were discovered to be discriminatory in terms of sensing nitrogen dioxide (NO2) gas. The impact of doping on structural parameters, optical properties, thermal stability, morphology, and shape were explored using HR-TEM, XRD, SAED, UV–Visible, FE-SEM, FT-IR, and EDS. The doping concentration was optimized for maximal reactivity with gas. ZZ@5 nanocomposites have the highest response (70.9 %) when compared to pure ZnO, ZZ@2, ZZ@7, ZZ@5, and ZZ@10 nanocomposites. NO2 gas reaction and recovery times were 24.5 and 27.8 s, respectively. As the concentration of NO2 gas climbs from 20 to 200 ppm, the reaction to gas sensors increases. NO2 gas has higher selectivity for ZZ@5 nanocomposite than other gases (ethanol, ammonia, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and liquefied petroleum gas). The repeatability of ZZ@5 nanocomposite was researched for 50 days and discovered to be impressive.

An invitro nevus explant model for studying the effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has been recognized as a potential trigger for the transformation of benign melanocytic nevi into melanoma. However, the mechanisms governing the formation and progression of melanocytic nevi remain poorly understood. This lack of understanding is partly due to the difficulty in isolating and culturing nevus tissues invitro, resulting in a dearth of robust exvivo models for nevi. Therefore, the establishment of a reliable melanocytic nevus model is imperative. Such a model is essential for elucidating nevus pathogenesis and facilitating the development of effective therapeutic interventions. Therefore, we have sought to establish an exvivo nevus explant model to study UVR stimulation. And the structural integrity and tissue activity of the exvivo nevi explant model was evaluated. We then observed melanogenesis and proliferation activity of the explants after UVR stimulation. There was less blister formation after Day 3 in nevi explants under our modified medium conditions. The nevi explant was able to maintain almost the same morphological structure and tissue activity as invivo tissue within 24 h. Following UVR stimulation, we observed increased melanogenesis and proliferation activity in nevi explants. Nevi explants could serve as an exvivo model for UVR-induced nevi stimulation research.

The evolution of traditional ancient towns in South China: Tangjiawan Ancient Town in Zhuhai city

ABSTRACT Based on the urban morphology theory of the Conzen School and the actual situation of the Tangjiawan Ancient Town, a morphological process analysis of the Tangjiawan Ancient Town was conducted. The end result is a visualization of the process of urban form evolution. The first objective is to describe the morphological framework of Tangjiawan Ancient Town and the morphological changes that occurred during its development. The current urban landscape is divided into units by superimposing morphological units, building types, and land use. The results of the division also reflect the morphological development, structure, and compositional characteristics of the ancient city of Tangjiawan. Using Tangjiawan Ancient Town in Zhuhai city as an example, on-site research, historical evidence, urban morphology analysis methods, and interviews were used to elaborate and analyze the spatial structure and evolution process of traditional ancient towns in South China. In particular, morphological units, building types, and land use are included. The morphological map of the Tangjiawan ancient town is inconsistent with the current economic-oriented development of ancient town planning. This shows that current planning is less concerned with the physical form of architectural heritage, which may lead to further damage to the landscape of the ancient town. This study provides a strong reference for the follow-up planning of ancient town protection of the same type from the perspective of morphology and area and provides ideas for the subsequent preparation of protection plans.

Ultrasmall Single-Chain Nanoparticles Derived from Amphiphilic Alternating Copolymers.

The collapse or folding of an individual polymer chain into a nanoscale particle gives rise to single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs), which share a soft nature with biological protein particles. The precise control of their properties, including morphology, internal structure, size, and deformability, are a long-standing and challenging pursuit. Herein, a new strategy based on amphiphilic alternating copolymers for producing SCNPs with ultrasmall size and uniform structure is presented. SCNPs are obtained by folding the designed alternating copolymer in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and fixing it through a photocatalyzed cycloaddition reaction of anthracene units. Molecular dynamics simulation confirms the solvophilic outer corona and solvophobic inner core structure of SCNPs. Furthermore, by adjusting the length of PEG units, precise control over the mean size of SCNPs is achieved within the range of 2.8 to 3.9nm. These findings highlight a new synthetic strategy that enables enhanced control over morphology and internal structure while achieving ultrasmall and uniform size for SCNPs.

The Effect of Residence Time and Stream Restrictions on the Precursors’ Structure and Coke Morphology

AbstractIn this work, the precursors and intermediates of catalytic dehydrogenation of toluene, ethylbenzene, and styrene (TES) stream were detected, quantified, and classified at 750–800 °C. The classification approach for tracing the structural changes of the produced precursors was designed based on different residence times of intermediates, leading to the presentation of a morphology prediction model for precipitated coke according to the restriction of stream pass. The results revealed that the coke structure of encapsulating is formed by heavier precursors produced at a restricted direction of flow. On the other hand, the filamentous coke made from lighter precursors is formed at smooth streams with no restricted areas.

Morphological characterisation of ethnomedicinally important Kaempferia L. (Zingiberaceae) and its present distribution status in Manipur, North-East India

Kaempferia L., a member of the Zingiberaceae family, is one of the most potent medicinal plants in India and requires proper attention. Our efforts to collect various species of Kaempferia in their natural habitat led to the collection of 30 accessions, including K. galanga, K. marginata, K. parviflora, K. rotunda, and five other unidentified Kaempferia species that are likely natural hybrids with no distinguishing features. It has been found that rhizomes are the most usable portion of the plant, and people in this region use them the most for medical purposes. The present study aimed to describe and evaluate the morphological structures of the plant, incorporating 52 phenotypic descriptors. Descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis were employed to explore diversity. The majority of the traits tested were highly variable. The elevation range (28704.02%) and plant height (at 648.03 %) had the largest coefficients of variation (CV %), whereas anther length (0.06 %) and corolla shape (0.19 %) had the lowest. Rhizome size has a high positive correlation with the odour of the aerial plant parts, growing, dormant, new shoots sprouting, and flowering seasons. However, it shows negative correlations with elevation, lifespan of the flower, and number of leaves. Principal component analysis (PCA), revealed that the first five components accounted for 89.90 % of the variability, and hierarchical grouping based on accession dissimilarity revealed two significant groupings. It was found that wild K. species populations were genetically diverse, suggesting that this diversity can be used for agronomic and horticultural purposes to isolate and characterise numerous important, well-adapted genotypes with the potential to significantly increase yields. Therefore, it is crucial to conserve the genetic material that is currently available.

Protective Role of MerTK in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy via Inhibition of the NF-κB Signaling Pathway.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) impacts patient quality of life. In such patients, increased expression of mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK) has been demonstrated; however, its mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and DPN models were established in Sprague Dawley rats via low-dose streptozotocin and a high-fat diet and the mode of action of MerTK was examined. MerTK-specific inhibitors were administered by gavage once daily for 2 weeks. Sciatic nerve conduction velocity and nerve structure were measured. The levels of MerTK, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and relevant biochemical indexes were detected. The study revealed upregulation of MerTK expression in T2DM and more so in DPN groups. Inhibiting MerTK led to reduced nerve conduction velocity and further deterioration of sciatic nerve structure, as evidenced by structural morphology. Concurrently, serum levels of total cholesterol, glycated hemoglobin, and triglyceride significantly increased. Moreover, levels of NF-κB increased in both serum and nerve tissue, alongside a significant rise in TNF-α and IL-1β expressions. MerTK could bind to the inhibitor of kappa B kinase beta (Ikbkb) in Schwann cells, establishing Ikbkb as a precursor to NF-κB activation. Inhibition of MerTK exacerbates neuropathy, indicating its protective role in DPN by suppressing the NF-κB pathway, highlighting a potential new target for its diagnosis and treatment.

Green synthesis and photocatalytic proficiency of tunable SnO2 nanostructures: unveiling environmental-friendly strategies for sustainable water remediation

Abstract This study demonstrates a proficient and eco-friendly synthesis of SnO2 nanostructures using a hydrothermal method, without the requirement of extra surfactants. The synthesis was systematically performed by adjusting the molar ratio of stannic chloride to sodium hydroxide and varying the pH settings. It was noted that the pH value rises according to the concentration of sodium hydroxide. A comprehensive analysis was performed to characterize the resulting nanostructures, which involved studying their structural features, chemical composition, morphology, and optical properties. An X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that increasing the pH values resulted in a noticeable improvement in the crystalline structure and a decrease in the density of surface defects. The SnO2 nanostructures, synthesized using different pH settings, were subsequently assessed for their photocatalytic performance in the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under simulated solar irradiation. Surprisingly, the nanostructure produced at higher pH levels showed outstanding results, as 97% of the dye was broken down in just 70 minutes when exposed to simulated solar radiation. The analysis uncovered a maximum rate constant (k) value of 0.04 min−1, determined using pseudo first-order rate kinetics. In order to better understand the photodegradation process, scavenger experiments were performed to identify the active species involved. These investigations provided valuable insights into the complex mechanisms that drive the observed photocatalytic activity. This study not only enhances the progress of SnO2 nanostructures but also highlights their potential as strong and environmentally friendly materials for effective photocatalytic applications.

The Histological and Biochemical Assessment of Monoiodoacetate-Induced Knee Osteoarthritis in a Rat Model Treated with Salicylic Acid-Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) represent an important advance in the field of medicine with application in both diagnostic and drug delivery domains, offering a therapeutic approach that effectively overcomes physical and biological barriers. The current study aimed to assess whether oral administration of salicylic acid-functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles (SaIONPs) may exhibit beneficial effects in alleviating histological lesions in a murine monoiodoacetate (MIA) induced knee osteoarthritis model. In order to conduct our study, 15 Wistar male rats were randomly distributed into 3 work groups: Sham (S), MIA, and NP. At the end of the experiments, all animals were sacrificed for blood, knee, and liver sampling. Our results have shown that SaIONPs reached the targeted sites and also had a chondroprotective effect represented by less severe histological lesions regarding cellularity, altered structure morphology, and proteoglycan depletion across different layers of the knee joint cartilage tissue. Moreover, SaIONPs induced a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) and circulating Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) levels. The findings of this study suggest the therapeutic potential of SaIONPs knee osteoarthritis treatment; further studies are needed to establish a correlation between the administrated dose of SaIONPs and the improvement of the morphological and biochemical parameters.

Renal Calcium and Magnesium Handling During Pregnancy: Modeling and Analysis.

Pregnancy is associated with elevated demand of most nutrients, with many trace elements and minerals critical for the development of fetus. In particular, calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) are essential for cellular function, and their deficiency can lead to impaired fetal growth. A key contributor to the homeostasis of these ions is the kidney, which in a pregnant rat undergoes major changes in morphology, hemodynamics, and molecular structure. The goal of this study is to unravel the functional implications of these pregnancy-induced changes in renal handling of Ca2+ and Mg2+, two cations that are essential in a healthy pregnancy. We developed computational models of electrolyte and water transport along the nephrons of a rat in mid and late pregnancy. Model simulations reveal a substantial increase in the reabsorption of Mg2+ along the proximal tubules and thick ascending limbs. In contrast, the reabsorption of Ca2+ is increased in the proximal tubules but decreased in the thick ascending limbs, due to the lower transepithelial concentration gradient of Ca2+ along the latter. Despite the enhanced transport capacity, the marked increase in glomerular filtration rate results in elevated urinary excretions of Ca2+ and Mg2+ in pregnancy. Furthermore, we conducted simulations of hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia. We found that hypocalcemia lowers Ca2+ excretion substantially more than Mg2+ excretion, especially in virgin rats. Conversely, hypomagnesemia reduces the excretion of Mg2+ and Ca2+ to more similar degrees. These differences can be explained by the greater sensitivity of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) to Ca2+ compared to Mg2+.

An in vitro and in vivo study of electrospun polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/sildenafil citrate mat on 3D-printed polycaprolactone membrane as a double layer wound dressing

Double-layer dermal substitutes (DS) generally provide more effective therapeutic outcomes than single-layer substitutes. The architectural design of DS incorporates an outer layer to protect against bacterial invasions and maintain wound hydration, thereby reducing the risk of infection and the frequency of dressing changes. Moreover, the outer layer is a mechanical support for the wound, preventing undue tension in the affected area. A 3D-printed polycaprolactone (PCL) membrane was utilized as the outer layer to fabricate DS wound dressing. Simultaneously, a polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/sildenafil citrate (PVA/CS/SC) scaffold was electrospun onto the PCL membrane to facilitate cellular adhesion and proliferation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the PCL filaments revealed a consistent cross-sectional surface and structure, with an average diameter of 562.72 ± 29.15 μm. SEM results also demonstrated uniform morphology and beadless structure for the PVA/CS/SC scaffold, with an average fiber diameter of 366.77 ± 1.81 nm for PVA/CS. The addition of SC led to an increase in fiber diameter while resulting in a reduction in tensile strength. However, drug release analysis indicated that the SC release from the sample can last up to 72 h. Animal experimentation confirmed that DS wound dressing positively accelerated wound closure and collagen deposition in the Wistar rat skin wound model.

Lythria (Microlythria subgen. nov.) venustata Staudinger, 1882 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae): distribution and description of the female, with a brief review of the genus

The article provides new localities for the little-known species Lythria venustata Staudinger, 1882; a map with all currently known locations is presented. A new subgenus, Microlythria subgen. nov., within Lythria Hübner is proposed for L. venustata. A morphological description of L. venustata female and illustration of its genital structure are given for the first time; some corrections in the description of the male genitalia are made. Both male and female genitalia of all other species of the genus are also shown, and a comparison of L. venustata with its congeners is made. Colour plates depicting males and females of all species of the genus Lythria are provided. The systematic position of the genus in the family Geometridae, and the implication of the features of L. venustata female genitalia for tribal association within the Sterrhinae are discussed. Identification keys (based on external morphology and genital structure) to Lythria species are given.

Exercise attenuates high-fat diet-induced PVAT dysfunction through improved inflammatory response and BMP4-regulated adipose tissue browning

BackgroundPerivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) dysfunction impairs vascular homeostasis. Impaired inflammation and bone morphogenetic protein-4 (BMP4) signaling are involved in thoracic PVAT dysfunction by regulating adipokine secretion and adipocyte phenotype transformation. We investigated whether aerobic exercise training could ameliorate high-fat diet (HFD)-induced PVAT dysfunction via improved inflammatory response and BMP4-mediated signaling pathways.MethodsSprague-Dawley rats (n = 24) were divided into three groups, namely control, high-fat diet (HFD), and HFD plus exercise (HEx). After a 6-week intervention, PVAT functional efficiency and changes in inflammatory biomarkers (circulating concentrations in blood and mRNA expressions in thoracic PVAT) were assessed.ResultsChronic HFD feeding caused obesity and dyslipidemia in rats. HFD decreased the relaxation response of PVAT-containing vascular rings and impaired PVAT-regulated vasodilatation. However, exercise training effectively reversed these diet-induced pathological changes to PVAT. This was accompanied by significantly (p < 0.05) restoring the morphological structure and the decreased lipid droplet size in PVAT. Furthermore, HFD-induced impaired inflammatory response (both in circulation and PVAT) was notably ameliorated by exercise training (p < 0.05). Specifically, exercise training substantially reversed HFD-induced WAT-like characteristics to BAT-like characteristics as evidenced by increased UCP1 and decreased FABP4 protein levels in PVAT against HFD. Exercise training promoted transcriptional activation of BMP4 and associated signaling molecules (p38/MAPK, ATF2, PGC1α, and Smad5) that are involved in browning of adipose tissue. In conjunction with gene expressions, exercise training increased BMP4 protein content and activated downstream cascades, represented by upregulated p38/MAPK and PGC1α proteins in PVAT.ConclusionRegular exercise training can reverse HFD-induced obesity, dyslipidemia, and thoracic PVAT dysfunction in rats. The browning of adipose tissue through exercise appears to be modulated through improved inflammatory response and/or BMP4-mediated signaling cascades in obese rats.

Evaluation of the Effect of Morphological Structure on Dilatational Tracheostomy Interference Location and Complications with Ultrasonography and Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy

Background: Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) is the most commonly performed minimally invasive intensive care unit procedure worldwide. Methods: This study evaluated the percentage of consistency between the entry site observed with fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) and the prediction for the PDT level based on pre-procedural ultrasonography (USG) in PDT procedures performed using the forceps dilatation method. The effect of morphological features on intervention sites was also investigated. Complications that occurred during and after the procedure, as well as the duration, site, and quantity of the procedures, were recorded. Results: Data obtained from a total of 91 patients were analyzed. In 57 patients (62.6%), the USG-estimated tracheal puncture level was consistent with the intercartilaginous space observed by FOB, while in 34 patients (37.4%), there was a discrepancy between these two methods. According to Bland Altman, the agreement between the tracheal spaces determined by USG and FOB was close. Regression formulas for PDT procedures defining the intercartilaginous puncture level based on morphologic measurements of the patients were created. The most common complication related to PDT was cartilage fracture (17.6%), which was proven to be predicted with maximum relevance by punctured tracheal level, neck extension limitation, and procedure duration. Conclusions: In PDT procedures using the forceps dilatation method, the prediction of the PDT intervention level based on pre-procedural USG was considerably in accordance with the entry site observed by FOB. The intercartilaginous puncture level could be estimated based on morphological measurements.

Mesoamerican mantic names as an etymological source of Mixtec vocabulary

Abstract This article examines the word histories of 12 nouns (eight zoonyms, two other lifeform names, and two toponyms) in Mixtec, a shallow or emergent language family of Mesoamerica. It argues that these nouns—now morphologically opaque—are fused compounds that arose from the Mixtec vocabulary of the mantic count of 260 days, a temporal organization that was part of the common cultural heritage of pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican peoples. With the European colonization and persecution of Mesoamerican religious practices, the use of the mantic count was abandoned. It was at this time that the compounds would have been demotivated; that is, the internal morphological structure would have become inaccessible to speakers who could no longer relate it to the mantic cycle. This then enriched the lexicon, creating etymological pairs for the same, or similar, referents. It is suggested that the survival of the eight zoonyms may have to do with their use in the context of omens.