Purpose: The multifidus muscle is an important extensor muscle of the lumbar spine. It plays a major role in the stability and realization of axial rotation movements of the thoraco-lumbar spine. Its atrophy by fatty ...Purpose: The multifidus muscle is an important extensor muscle of the lumbar spine. It plays a major role in the stability and realization of axial rotation movements of the thoraco-lumbar spine. Its atrophy by fatty degeneration would be at the origin of the occurrence of chronic low back pain which constitutes a public health problem in Senegal. Taking into account its anatomy is essential for the etiopathogenic analysis and the treatment of low back pain. The purpose of our work was to investigate the impact of multifidus muscle morphometry on the anatomy-clinical evolution of low back pain. Material and method: this was a prospective study over a period of 30 months from November 2019 to May 2022. It involved 100 patients seen in the neurology department of Fann Hospital for chronic low back pain and who had already had a scanner falling within the criteria for low back pain. We used 3D Slicer, SPSS 20, Excel 2016 software to model and analyze the morphometric data of the multifidus muscle after physiotherapy and control lumbar scans. Results: The sex ratio was 2.23. The average age of the patients was 45 ± 7 years. On the initial CT scan, according to the Hadar classification, we noted a predominance of grade 2 with 56% in L5/S1, followed by grade 1 with 32% and grade 3 with 14%. In L4/L5, the majority of patients, 67%, had grade 1. A conflicting circumferential disc bulge with the roots predominating in L5/S1 was present in 94% of men (p-value = 0.02). Before physiotherapy, the average volume of the multifidus was 193 mm<sup>3</sup> ± 39, after physiotherapy it was 203 mm<sup>3</sup> ± 42 with a progression rate of 5.2%. Clinically, severe type pain had regressed from 86% before physiotherapy to 0% after physiotherapy (p-value = 0.03). Conclusion: Taking into account the morphometry of the multifidus is an essential element in the management of chronic low back pain.展开更多
BACKGROUND Prior research has demonstrated that the brains of adolescents with depression exhibit distinct structural alterations.However,preliminary studies have documented the pathophysiological changes in certain b...BACKGROUND Prior research has demonstrated that the brains of adolescents with depression exhibit distinct structural alterations.However,preliminary studies have documented the pathophysiological changes in certain brain regions,such as the cerebellum,highlighting a need for further research to support the current understanding of this disease.AIM To study brain changes in depressed adolescents.METHODS This study enrolled 34 adolescents with depression and 34 age-,sex-,and education-level-matched healthy control(HC)individuals.Structural and functional alterations were identified when comparing the brains of these two participant groups through voxel-based morphometry and cerebral blood flow(CBF)analysis,respectively.Associations between identified brain alterations and the severity of depressive symptoms were explored through Pearson correlation analyses.RESULTS The cerebellum,superior frontal gyrus,cingulate gyrus,pallidum,middle frontal gyrus,angular gyrus,thalamus,precentral gyrus,inferior temporal gyrus,superior temporal gyrus,inferior frontal gyrus,and supplementary motor areas of adolescents with depression showed an increase in brain volume compared to HC individuals.These patients with depression further presented with a pronounced drop in CBF in the left pallidum(group=98,and peak t=-4.4324),together with increased CBF in the right percental gyrus(PerCG)(group=90,and peak t=4.5382).In addition,17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores were significantly correlated with the increased volume in the opercular portion of the left inferior frontal gyrus(r=-0.5231,P<0.01).CONCLUSION The right PerCG showed structural and CBF changes,indicating that research on this part of the brain could offer insight into the pathophysiological causes of impaired cognition.展开更多
Background Sperm migration by thermotaxis is a guidance mechanism that operates along the oviduct and it has proved to be a valid method for selecting spermatozoa with low DNA fragmentation(SDF)in mice,humans,and stal...Background Sperm migration by thermotaxis is a guidance mechanism that operates along the oviduct and it has proved to be a valid method for selecting spermatozoa with low DNA fragmentation(SDF)in mice,humans,and stallions.This study aimed to analyse if bull spermatozoa could be selected by thermotaxis and to assess their quality in terms of SDF as well as determine the presence of a specific sperm subpopulation based on sperm morphometry and assess their fertilizing capacity by ICSI.Methods We used frozen-thawed sperm from 6 bulls and sperm selection by thermotaxis was performed with TALP medium supplemented with 25 mmol/L of HEPES and 5 mmol/L of caffeine.In these conditions,sperm selection was achieved,obtaining a net thermotaxis of 3.6%.Subsequently,we analysed the SDF of the migrated and not-migrated spermatozoa using the neutral COMET assay,and we evaluated the size of the sperm head using Hemacolor■ staining with Motic Images Plus 3 software.Additionally,migrated and not-migrated spermatozoa by thermotaxis were used to fertilize bovine in vitro matured(IVM)oocytes by ICSI,a very inefficient procedure in cattle that is only successful when the oocyte is artificially activated.Results The results showed lower SDF(χ^(2),P<0.001,13.3%reduction,n=8)and lower head size parameters(length and width,P<0.01;and perimeter and area,P<0.001;n=4)in those spermatozoa migrated in comparison to those not-migrated.The distribution of sperm subpopulations structure varied between groups,highlighting cluster 2,characterized by spermatozoa with small head size,and high ellipticity and elongated heads,as the most abundant in the thermotaxis migrated group.When performed ICSI(without oocyte artificial activation)with the thermotactic sperm,the blastocyst rate was 32.2%±9.3%in the group microinjected with the thermotactic spermatozoa vs.8.3%±7.8%in the group of not-migrated sperm(χ^(2),P<0.05).Conclusion Our results showed that bull sperm selection by thermotaxis has a much higher DNA integrity,small and elongated head size parameters,and different sperm subpopulation structure than the not-selected spermatozoa.Additionally,we evidenced that thermotactic spermatozoa improve ICSI success rates.展开更多
Hepatic myelopathy is a complication seen in patients with chronic liver failure with physiologic or iatrogenic portosystemic shunting. The main symptom is progressive lower limb dyskinesia. The role of the brain moto...Hepatic myelopathy is a complication seen in patients with chronic liver failure with physiologic or iatrogenic portosystemic shunting. The main symptom is progressive lower limb dyskinesia. The role of the brain motor control center in hepatic myelopathy is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the gray matter changes in patients with hepatic myelopathy secondary to transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and to examine their clinical relevance. This was a cross-sectional study. Twenty-three liver failure patients with hepatic myelopathy(hepatic myelopathy group), 23 liver failure patients without hepatic myelopathy(non-hepatic myelopathy group) after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, and 23 demographically matched healthy volunteers were enrolled from March 2014 to November 2016 at Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University(Fourth Military Medical University), China. High-resolution magnetization-prepared rapid gradient-echo brain imaging was acquired. Group differences in regional gray matter were assessed using voxel-based morphometry analysis. The relationship between aberrant gray matter and motor characteristics was investigated. Results demonstrated that compared with the non-hepatic myelopathy group, gray matter volume abnormalities were asymmetric, with decreased volume in the left insula(P = 0.003), left thalamus(P = 0.029), left superior frontal gyrus(P = 0.006), and right middle cingulate cortex(P = 0.021), and increased volume in the right caudate nucleus(P = 0.017), corrected with open-source software. The volume of the right caudate nucleus in the hepatic myelopathy group negatively correlated with the lower limb clinical rating of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment(r = –0.53, P = 0.01). Compared with healthy controls, patients with and without hepatic myelopathy exhibited overall increased gray matter volume in both thalami, and decreased gray matter volume in both putamen, as well as in the globus pallidus, cerebellum, and vermis. The gray matter abnormalities we found predominantly involved motor-related regions, and may be associated with motor dysfunction. An enlarged right caudate nucleus might help to predict weak lower limb motor performance in patients with preclinical hepatic myelopathy after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University(Fourth Military Medical University), China(approval No. 20140227-6) on February 27, 2014.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate transient elastography(TE) as a noninvasive tool in staging liver fibrosis compared with liver biopsy and morphometry in children with different chronic liver diseases.METHODS: A total of 90 children ...AIM: To evaluate transient elastography(TE) as a noninvasive tool in staging liver fibrosis compared with liver biopsy and morphometry in children with different chronic liver diseases.METHODS: A total of 90 children [50 with chronic hepatitis C virus(HCV), 20 with autoimmune hepatitis(AIH) and 20 with Wilson disease] were included in the study and underwent liver stiffness measurement(LSM) using TE. Liver biopsies were evaluated for fibrosis, qualitatively, by Ishak score and quantitatively by fibrosis area fraction(FAF) using digital image analysis(morphometry). LSM was correlated with fibrosis and other studied variables using spearman correlation. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was alsoperformed to examine independent factors associated with LSM. Different cut-off values of LSM were calculated for predicting individual fibrosis stages using receiveroperating characteristic curve. Cut-off values with optimal clinical performance(optimal sensitivity and specificity simultaneously) were selected.RESULTS: The majority of HCV group had minimal activity(80%) and no/mild fibrosis(72%). On the other hand, the majority of AIH group had mild to moderate activity(70%) and moderate to severe fibrosis(95%) and all Wilson disease group had mild to moderate activity(100%) and moderate to severe fibrosis(100%). LSM correlated significantly with both FAF and Ishak scores and the correlation appeared better with the latter(r = 0.839 vs 0.879, P < 0.0001 for both). LSM discriminated individual stages of fibrosis with high performance. Sensitivity ranged from 81.4% to 100% and specificity ranged from 75.0% to 97.2%. When we compared LSM values for the same stage of fibrosis, they varied according to the different etiologies. Higher values were in AIH(16.15 ± 7.23 k Pa) compared to Wilson disease(8.30 ± 0.84 k Pa) and HCV groups(7.43 ± 1.73 k Pa). Multiple regression analysis revealed that Ishak fibrosis stage was the only independent variable associated with higher LSM(P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION: TE appears reliable in distinguishing different stages of liver fibrosis in children. However, its values vary according to the disease type. For that, a disease-specific estimation of cut-off values for fibrosis staging is worthy.展开更多
AIM:To validate a multimodal[structural and functional magnetic resonance(MR)]approach as coincidence brain clusters are hypothesized to correlate with clinical severity of auditory hallucinations.METHODS:Twenty-two p...AIM:To validate a multimodal[structural and functional magnetic resonance(MR)]approach as coincidence brain clusters are hypothesized to correlate with clinical severity of auditory hallucinations.METHODS:Twenty-two patients meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(fourth edition,DSM-Ⅳ)criteria for schizophrenia and experiencing persistent hallucinations together with 28 healthy controls were evaluated with structural and functional MR imaging with an auditory paradigm designed to replicate those emotions related to the patients’hallucinatory experiences.Coincidence maps were obtained by combining structural maps of gray matter reduction with emotional functional increased activation.Abnormal areas were correlated with the brief psychiatric rating scale(BPRS)and the psychotic symptom rating scale(PSYRATS)scales.RESULTS:The coincidence analysis showed areas with coexistence gray matter reductions and emotional activation in bilateral middle temporal and superior temporal gyri.Significant negative correlations between BPRS and PSYRATS scales were observed.BPRS scores were negatively correlated in the middle temporal gyrus(right)(t=6.86,P=0.001),while negative PSYRATS correlation affected regions in both the superior temporal gyrus(left)(t=7.85,P=0.001)and middle temporal gyrus(left)(t=4.97,P=0.002).CONCLUSION:Our data identify left superior and middle temporal gyri as relevant areas for the understanding of auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia.The use of multimodal approaches,sharing structural and functional information,may demonstrate areas specifically linked to the severity of auditory hallucinations.展开更多
Our previous study used regional homogeneity analysis and found that activity in some brain areas of patients with ischemic stroke changed significantly.In the current study,we examined structural changes in these bra...Our previous study used regional homogeneity analysis and found that activity in some brain areas of patients with ischemic stroke changed significantly.In the current study,we examined structural changes in these brain regions by taking structural magnetic resonance imaging scans of 11 ischemic stroke patients and 15 healthy participants,and analyzing the data using voxel-based morphometry.Compared with healthy participants,patients exhibited higher gray matter density in the left inferior occipital gyrus and right anterior white matter tract.In contrast,gray matter density in the right cerebellum,left precentral gyrus,right middle frontal gyrus,and left middle temporal gyrus was less in ischemic stroke patients.The changes of gray matter density in the middle frontal gyrus were negatively associated with the clinical rating scales of the Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment(r=–0.609,P=0.047) and the left middle temporal gyrus was negatively correlated with the clinical rating scales of the nervous functional deficiency scale(r=–0.737,P=0.010).Our findings can objectively identify the functional abnormality in some brain regions of ischemic stroke patients.展开更多
The position and branching of the lingual nerve (LN) in the mandibular third molar region were documented in 30 head hemi-sections (16: right and 14: left). In all the dissections, the LN was found below the level of ...The position and branching of the lingual nerve (LN) in the mandibular third molar region were documented in 30 head hemi-sections (16: right and 14: left). In all the dissections, the LN was found below the level of the posterior alveolar crest (PAC). Branching was observed in 26 (86.7%) of the 30 specimen in which one branch was most frequently given per hemi-section. All branches were located superior to the main trunk of the LN. The mean vertical distance of the LN from the PAC was 10.3 ± 5.2 mm (range: 2.8 - 19.9 mm) whereas the mean antero-posterior distance was 7.1 ± 2.8 mm (range: 1.3 - 15.6 mm). The mean mandibular height from the PAC was 28.7 ± 4.0 mm (range: 23.3 - 40.7 mm). The vertical distance and mandibular height correlated positively giving a ratio of 1:2.7 between the two parameters. There was no significant difference between the two sides of the head. Position of the LN differed from previous studies suggesting that ethnicity may have a role in morphometry of the nerve. Use of different methodology may also contribute to this. Branches of the LN being closer to the PAC may be more prone to injury than the main trunk during surgical treatment.展开更多
Objective High resolution structural MR imaging can reveal structural characteristics of cerebral cortex and provide an insight into normal brain development and neuropsychological diseases. The aim of this study was ...Objective High resolution structural MR imaging can reveal structural characteristics of cerebral cortex and provide an insight into normal brain development and neuropsychological diseases. The aim of this study was to compare cortical structural characteristics of normal human brain between 3T and 7T MRI systems using surface-based morphometry based on high resolution structural MR imaging.Methods Twelve healthy volunteers were scanned by both 3T with 3D T1-weighted fast spoiled gradient recalled echo (3D T1-FSPGR) sequence and 7T with 3D T1-weighted magnetization-prepared rapid gradient echo (3D T1-MPRAGE) sequence. MRI data were processed with FreeSurfer. The cortical thickness,white and gray matter surface area, convexity, and curvature from data of 3T and 7T were measured and compared by paired t-test.Results Measurements of mean cortical thickness, total white matter surface area and gray matter surface area of 3T were larger than those of 7T (left hemisphere: P=0.000, 0.006, 0.020 respectively; right hemisphere: P=0.000, 0.000, 0.000 respectively). Surface-based morphometry over the whole brain demonstrated both reduced and increased measurements of cortical thickness, white and gray surface area,convexity, and curvature at 7T compared to 3T.Conclusions Inconsistency of brain structural attribute between 3T and 7T was confirmed, and researchers should be cautious about data when using ultrahigh field MR system to investigate brain structural changes.展开更多
Due to their large size,rapid growth,and attendant morbidity,staghorn calculi are complex clinical entities that impose significant treatment-related challenges.Moreover,their relative heterogeneitydin terms of both t...Due to their large size,rapid growth,and attendant morbidity,staghorn calculi are complex clinical entities that impose significant treatment-related challenges.Moreover,their relative heterogeneitydin terms of both total stone burden and anatomic distributiondlimits the ability to standardize their characterization and the reporting of surgical outcomes.Several morphometry systems currently exist to define the volumetric distribution of renal stones,in general,and to predict the outcomes of percutaneous nephrolithotomy;however,they fall short in their applicability to staghorn stones.In this review,we aim to discuss the clinical utility of morphometry systems and the influence of pelvicalyceal anatomy on the management of these complex calculi.展开更多
The paper discusses assessment of various chemical constituents present in groundwater besides morphology, and land form characteristics of twin micro-watersheds (viz., Melekote and Rajaghatta) Dodballapur Taluk, (Kar...The paper discusses assessment of various chemical constituents present in groundwater besides morphology, and land form characteristics of twin micro-watersheds (viz., Melekote and Rajaghatta) Dodballapur Taluk, (Karnataka) coming under semi-arid climatic zone. Farmers who are mainly depending on agricultural yields for their living are disappointed due to vagaries of monsoons and undependable rainfall. This is particularly so in arid and semi-arid regions. These regions suffer from water scarcity, soil degradation, low crop yield, high soil erosion and gradual depletion of soil fertility. All these factors culminate in planning for conservation and storage of water in small watersheds for future needs, i.e., during drought conditions. In many areas, it is observed that the water table levels are declining resulting in problems of increased concentration of solutes and deterioration of groundwater quality. All aspects of hydrological studies are covered in relation to watershed management in order to formulate strategies for sustainable agricultural development. Morphometry, landform and topography play an important role in understanding the hydrological response of any watershed. Quantitative morphometric analysis has been carried out on the watershed along with landform and topographical study.展开更多
Nowadays, women are more and more resorting to breast surgery for the purposes of isolated esthetics or within the framework of a mammectomy for tumor with its cohort of psychological problems post mutilation often re...Nowadays, women are more and more resorting to breast surgery for the purposes of isolated esthetics or within the framework of a mammectomy for tumor with its cohort of psychological problems post mutilation often requiring reconstruction. In context of breast cancer increase in Senegal, we have carried out breast morphology in female subjects of the Sahelian type in order to contribute to the development of a morphological database for reconstruction, reduction or breast augmentation. It was a prospective study on 118 female subjects received at Cancer Institute for screening. They were divided into two groups (age ≤ 40 years and age?> 40 years). Subjects’?morphometric variables were collected in anatomical position and correlated with age, parity, obesity and genital activity using. Fifty six subjects (47.5%) were over 40 years of age. There were 40 multiparous (33.9%). Fifteen subjects (12.7%) and six subjects (5%) were obese and morbidly obese, respectively. Subjects in genital activity were 34 (29%). The overall average size of the areola was 4.3 ± 1.5 cm. The nipple was low located with an average of 7.2 ± 3.5 cm. The diameters mentioned above increased significantly with age and body mass index, for p-values ?0.05, with the exception of the vertical diameter. Breast diameters were greater in postmenopausal women. Morphometry of Sahelian-type women’s breast is strongly influenced by socio-demographic data, hence the need to take it into account during reconstruction, reduction or breast augmentation surgeries in Senegal.展开更多
Morphology and morphometry of six biotypes(B,Q,Cv,ZHJ-1,ZHJ-2 and ZHJ-3) of Bemisia tabaci(Gennadius) from China on cotton plants were studied by using microscopes.Nymphal body sizes and characters were measured and o...Morphology and morphometry of six biotypes(B,Q,Cv,ZHJ-1,ZHJ-2 and ZHJ-3) of Bemisia tabaci(Gennadius) from China on cotton plants were studied by using microscopes.Nymphal body sizes and characters were measured and observed,especially on the 4th instar(pupal case),including the vasiform orifice,operculum,lingula,length and thickness of anterior and posterior wax margins,width of thoracic tracheal combs.Adult characters of both sexes were investigated including the body size,compound eyes,antennal segments,vasiform orifice,hind tarsi and genitals.The results indicated that differences of some morphological characters or morphometrics were significant among the six biotypes of B.tabaci in China:(1) Pupal sizes of the exotic biotypes(B and Q) were significantly larger than the indigenous biotypes with the following order as B>Q>ZHJ-1>Cv>ZHJ-3>ZHJ-2;(2) for both male and female adults,sizes of all characters investigated in the invading biotypes(B and Q),especially B,were much larger than those of the indigenous ones.展开更多
Voxel-based morphometry-diffeomorphic anatomical registration using exponentiated lie algebra analysis was used to investigate the structural characteristics of white matter in young males with antisocial personality ...Voxel-based morphometry-diffeomorphic anatomical registration using exponentiated lie algebra analysis was used to investigate the structural characteristics of white matter in young males with antisocial personality disorder (APD) and healthy controls without APD. The results revealed that APD subjects, relative to healthy subjects, exhibited increased white matter volume in the bilateral prefrontal lobe, right insula, precentral gyrus, bilateral superior temporal gyrus, right postcentral gyrus, right inferior parietal lobule, right precuneus, right middle occipital lobe, right parahippocampal gyrus and bilateral cingulate, and decreased volume in the middle temporal cortex and right cerebellum. The white matter volume in the medial frontal gyrus was significantly correlated with antisocial type scores on the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire in APD subjects. These experimental findings indicate that white matter abnormalities in several brain areas may contribute to antisocial behaviors in APD subjects.展开更多
Voxel-based morphometry can be used to quantitatively compare structural differences and functional changes of gray matter in subjects.In the present study,we compared gray matter images of 32 patients with Parkinson&...Voxel-based morphometry can be used to quantitatively compare structural differences and functional changes of gray matter in subjects.In the present study,we compared gray matter images of 32 patients with Parkinson's disease and 25 healthy controls using voxel-based morphometry based on 3.0 T high-field magnetic resonance T1-weighted imaging and clinical neurological scale scores.Results showed that the scores in Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment were lower in patients compared with controls.In particular,the scores of visuospatial/executive function items in Montreal Cognitive Assessment were significantly reduced,but mean scores of non-motor symptoms significantly increased,in patients with Parkinson's disease.In addition,gray matter volume was significantly diminished in Parkinson's disease patients compared with normal controls,including bilateral temporal lobe,bilateral occipital lobe,bilateral parietal lobe,bilateral frontal lobe,bilateral insular lobe,bilateral parahippocampal gyrus,bilateral amygdale,right uncus,and right posterior lobe of the cerebellum.These findings indicate that voxel-based morphometry can accurately and quantitatively assess the loss of gray matter volume in patients with Parkinson's disease,and provide essential neuroimaging evidence for multisystem pathological mechanisms involved in Parkinson's disease.展开更多
This study compared the difference in brain structure in 12 mine disaster survivors with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder,7 cases of improved post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms,and 14 controls who experienc...This study compared the difference in brain structure in 12 mine disaster survivors with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder,7 cases of improved post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms,and 14 controls who experienced the same mine disaster but did not suffer post-traumatic stress disorder,using the voxel-based morphometry method.The correlation between differences in brain structure and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms was also investigated.Results showed that the gray matter volume was the highest in the trauma control group,followed by the symptoms-improved group,and the lowest in the chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group.Compared with the symptoms-improved group,the gray matter volume in the lingual gyrus of the right occipital lobe was reduced in the chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group.Compared with the trauma control group,the gray matter volume in the right middle occipital gyrus and left middle frontal gyrus was reduced in the symptoms-improved group.Compared with the trauma control group,the gray matter volume in the left superior parietal lobule and right superior frontal gyrus was reduced in the chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group.The gray matter volume in the left superior parietal lobule was significantly positively correlated with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory subscale score in the symptoms-improved group and chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group(r=0.477,P=0.039).Our findings indicate that(1) chronic post-traumatic stress disorder patients have gray matter structural damage in the prefrontal lobe,occipital lobe,and parietal lobe,(2) after post-traumatic stress,the disorder symptoms are improved and gray matter structural damage is reduced,but cannot recover to the trauma-control level,and(3) the superior parietal lobule is possibly associated with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder.Post-traumatic stress disorder patients exhibit gray matter abnormalities.展开更多
文摘Purpose: The multifidus muscle is an important extensor muscle of the lumbar spine. It plays a major role in the stability and realization of axial rotation movements of the thoraco-lumbar spine. Its atrophy by fatty degeneration would be at the origin of the occurrence of chronic low back pain which constitutes a public health problem in Senegal. Taking into account its anatomy is essential for the etiopathogenic analysis and the treatment of low back pain. The purpose of our work was to investigate the impact of multifidus muscle morphometry on the anatomy-clinical evolution of low back pain. Material and method: this was a prospective study over a period of 30 months from November 2019 to May 2022. It involved 100 patients seen in the neurology department of Fann Hospital for chronic low back pain and who had already had a scanner falling within the criteria for low back pain. We used 3D Slicer, SPSS 20, Excel 2016 software to model and analyze the morphometric data of the multifidus muscle after physiotherapy and control lumbar scans. Results: The sex ratio was 2.23. The average age of the patients was 45 ± 7 years. On the initial CT scan, according to the Hadar classification, we noted a predominance of grade 2 with 56% in L5/S1, followed by grade 1 with 32% and grade 3 with 14%. In L4/L5, the majority of patients, 67%, had grade 1. A conflicting circumferential disc bulge with the roots predominating in L5/S1 was present in 94% of men (p-value = 0.02). Before physiotherapy, the average volume of the multifidus was 193 mm<sup>3</sup> ± 39, after physiotherapy it was 203 mm<sup>3</sup> ± 42 with a progression rate of 5.2%. Clinically, severe type pain had regressed from 86% before physiotherapy to 0% after physiotherapy (p-value = 0.03). Conclusion: Taking into account the morphometry of the multifidus is an essential element in the management of chronic low back pain.
基金Supported by The Project of Scientific Research and Innovative Experiment for College Students in Chongqing Medical University,No.202215the Provincial Project of University Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program,No.202210631015.
文摘BACKGROUND Prior research has demonstrated that the brains of adolescents with depression exhibit distinct structural alterations.However,preliminary studies have documented the pathophysiological changes in certain brain regions,such as the cerebellum,highlighting a need for further research to support the current understanding of this disease.AIM To study brain changes in depressed adolescents.METHODS This study enrolled 34 adolescents with depression and 34 age-,sex-,and education-level-matched healthy control(HC)individuals.Structural and functional alterations were identified when comparing the brains of these two participant groups through voxel-based morphometry and cerebral blood flow(CBF)analysis,respectively.Associations between identified brain alterations and the severity of depressive symptoms were explored through Pearson correlation analyses.RESULTS The cerebellum,superior frontal gyrus,cingulate gyrus,pallidum,middle frontal gyrus,angular gyrus,thalamus,precentral gyrus,inferior temporal gyrus,superior temporal gyrus,inferior frontal gyrus,and supplementary motor areas of adolescents with depression showed an increase in brain volume compared to HC individuals.These patients with depression further presented with a pronounced drop in CBF in the left pallidum(group=98,and peak t=-4.4324),together with increased CBF in the right percental gyrus(PerCG)(group=90,and peak t=4.5382).In addition,17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores were significantly correlated with the increased volume in the opercular portion of the left inferior frontal gyrus(r=-0.5231,P<0.01).CONCLUSION The right PerCG showed structural and CBF changes,indicating that research on this part of the brain could offer insight into the pathophysiological causes of impaired cognition.
基金funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation-MCIN (RTI2018-093548-B-100 and PID202M225070B-100 to A.Gutierrez-Adan and PID2019-1l1641 RB-100 to D.Rizos,funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/and European Union"NextGeneration EU"/PRTR)supported by a Juan de la Cierva postdoctoral contract (FJC2019-040385-1)from the MCIN+1 种基金supported by a"Doctorados Industriales2018"fellowship of Comunidad de Madrid (IND2018/BIO-9610)supported by FPI scholarships from the MCIN (PRE2020-094452 and PRE2019-088813 respectively)。
文摘Background Sperm migration by thermotaxis is a guidance mechanism that operates along the oviduct and it has proved to be a valid method for selecting spermatozoa with low DNA fragmentation(SDF)in mice,humans,and stallions.This study aimed to analyse if bull spermatozoa could be selected by thermotaxis and to assess their quality in terms of SDF as well as determine the presence of a specific sperm subpopulation based on sperm morphometry and assess their fertilizing capacity by ICSI.Methods We used frozen-thawed sperm from 6 bulls and sperm selection by thermotaxis was performed with TALP medium supplemented with 25 mmol/L of HEPES and 5 mmol/L of caffeine.In these conditions,sperm selection was achieved,obtaining a net thermotaxis of 3.6%.Subsequently,we analysed the SDF of the migrated and not-migrated spermatozoa using the neutral COMET assay,and we evaluated the size of the sperm head using Hemacolor■ staining with Motic Images Plus 3 software.Additionally,migrated and not-migrated spermatozoa by thermotaxis were used to fertilize bovine in vitro matured(IVM)oocytes by ICSI,a very inefficient procedure in cattle that is only successful when the oocyte is artificially activated.Results The results showed lower SDF(χ^(2),P<0.001,13.3%reduction,n=8)and lower head size parameters(length and width,P<0.01;and perimeter and area,P<0.001;n=4)in those spermatozoa migrated in comparison to those not-migrated.The distribution of sperm subpopulations structure varied between groups,highlighting cluster 2,characterized by spermatozoa with small head size,and high ellipticity and elongated heads,as the most abundant in the thermotaxis migrated group.When performed ICSI(without oocyte artificial activation)with the thermotactic sperm,the blastocyst rate was 32.2%±9.3%in the group microinjected with the thermotactic spermatozoa vs.8.3%±7.8%in the group of not-migrated sperm(χ^(2),P<0.05).Conclusion Our results showed that bull sperm selection by thermotaxis has a much higher DNA integrity,small and elongated head size parameters,and different sperm subpopulation structure than the not-selected spermatozoa.Additionally,we evidenced that thermotactic spermatozoa improve ICSI success rates.
文摘Hepatic myelopathy is a complication seen in patients with chronic liver failure with physiologic or iatrogenic portosystemic shunting. The main symptom is progressive lower limb dyskinesia. The role of the brain motor control center in hepatic myelopathy is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the gray matter changes in patients with hepatic myelopathy secondary to transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and to examine their clinical relevance. This was a cross-sectional study. Twenty-three liver failure patients with hepatic myelopathy(hepatic myelopathy group), 23 liver failure patients without hepatic myelopathy(non-hepatic myelopathy group) after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, and 23 demographically matched healthy volunteers were enrolled from March 2014 to November 2016 at Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University(Fourth Military Medical University), China. High-resolution magnetization-prepared rapid gradient-echo brain imaging was acquired. Group differences in regional gray matter were assessed using voxel-based morphometry analysis. The relationship between aberrant gray matter and motor characteristics was investigated. Results demonstrated that compared with the non-hepatic myelopathy group, gray matter volume abnormalities were asymmetric, with decreased volume in the left insula(P = 0.003), left thalamus(P = 0.029), left superior frontal gyrus(P = 0.006), and right middle cingulate cortex(P = 0.021), and increased volume in the right caudate nucleus(P = 0.017), corrected with open-source software. The volume of the right caudate nucleus in the hepatic myelopathy group negatively correlated with the lower limb clinical rating of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment(r = –0.53, P = 0.01). Compared with healthy controls, patients with and without hepatic myelopathy exhibited overall increased gray matter volume in both thalami, and decreased gray matter volume in both putamen, as well as in the globus pallidus, cerebellum, and vermis. The gray matter abnormalities we found predominantly involved motor-related regions, and may be associated with motor dysfunction. An enlarged right caudate nucleus might help to predict weak lower limb motor performance in patients with preclinical hepatic myelopathy after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University(Fourth Military Medical University), China(approval No. 20140227-6) on February 27, 2014.
基金Supported by the National Liver Institute,Menofiya University,Egypt,No.2011.MDT013
文摘AIM: To evaluate transient elastography(TE) as a noninvasive tool in staging liver fibrosis compared with liver biopsy and morphometry in children with different chronic liver diseases.METHODS: A total of 90 children [50 with chronic hepatitis C virus(HCV), 20 with autoimmune hepatitis(AIH) and 20 with Wilson disease] were included in the study and underwent liver stiffness measurement(LSM) using TE. Liver biopsies were evaluated for fibrosis, qualitatively, by Ishak score and quantitatively by fibrosis area fraction(FAF) using digital image analysis(morphometry). LSM was correlated with fibrosis and other studied variables using spearman correlation. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was alsoperformed to examine independent factors associated with LSM. Different cut-off values of LSM were calculated for predicting individual fibrosis stages using receiveroperating characteristic curve. Cut-off values with optimal clinical performance(optimal sensitivity and specificity simultaneously) were selected.RESULTS: The majority of HCV group had minimal activity(80%) and no/mild fibrosis(72%). On the other hand, the majority of AIH group had mild to moderate activity(70%) and moderate to severe fibrosis(95%) and all Wilson disease group had mild to moderate activity(100%) and moderate to severe fibrosis(100%). LSM correlated significantly with both FAF and Ishak scores and the correlation appeared better with the latter(r = 0.839 vs 0.879, P < 0.0001 for both). LSM discriminated individual stages of fibrosis with high performance. Sensitivity ranged from 81.4% to 100% and specificity ranged from 75.0% to 97.2%. When we compared LSM values for the same stage of fibrosis, they varied according to the different etiologies. Higher values were in AIH(16.15 ± 7.23 k Pa) compared to Wilson disease(8.30 ± 0.84 k Pa) and HCV groups(7.43 ± 1.73 k Pa). Multiple regression analysis revealed that Ishak fibrosis stage was the only independent variable associated with higher LSM(P < 0.0001).CONCLUSION: TE appears reliable in distinguishing different stages of liver fibrosis in children. However, its values vary according to the disease type. For that, a disease-specific estimation of cut-off values for fibrosis staging is worthy.
文摘AIM:To validate a multimodal[structural and functional magnetic resonance(MR)]approach as coincidence brain clusters are hypothesized to correlate with clinical severity of auditory hallucinations.METHODS:Twenty-two patients meeting Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(fourth edition,DSM-Ⅳ)criteria for schizophrenia and experiencing persistent hallucinations together with 28 healthy controls were evaluated with structural and functional MR imaging with an auditory paradigm designed to replicate those emotions related to the patients’hallucinatory experiences.Coincidence maps were obtained by combining structural maps of gray matter reduction with emotional functional increased activation.Abnormal areas were correlated with the brief psychiatric rating scale(BPRS)and the psychotic symptom rating scale(PSYRATS)scales.RESULTS:The coincidence analysis showed areas with coexistence gray matter reductions and emotional activation in bilateral middle temporal and superior temporal gyri.Significant negative correlations between BPRS and PSYRATS scales were observed.BPRS scores were negatively correlated in the middle temporal gyrus(right)(t=6.86,P=0.001),while negative PSYRATS correlation affected regions in both the superior temporal gyrus(left)(t=7.85,P=0.001)and middle temporal gyrus(left)(t=4.97,P=0.002).CONCLUSION:Our data identify left superior and middle temporal gyri as relevant areas for the understanding of auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia.The use of multimodal approaches,sharing structural and functional information,may demonstrate areas specifically linked to the severity of auditory hallucinations.
基金financially supported by the National Program on Key Basic Research Project of China(973 Program)No.2012CB518501the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81072864
文摘Our previous study used regional homogeneity analysis and found that activity in some brain areas of patients with ischemic stroke changed significantly.In the current study,we examined structural changes in these brain regions by taking structural magnetic resonance imaging scans of 11 ischemic stroke patients and 15 healthy participants,and analyzing the data using voxel-based morphometry.Compared with healthy participants,patients exhibited higher gray matter density in the left inferior occipital gyrus and right anterior white matter tract.In contrast,gray matter density in the right cerebellum,left precentral gyrus,right middle frontal gyrus,and left middle temporal gyrus was less in ischemic stroke patients.The changes of gray matter density in the middle frontal gyrus were negatively associated with the clinical rating scales of the Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment(r=–0.609,P=0.047) and the left middle temporal gyrus was negatively correlated with the clinical rating scales of the nervous functional deficiency scale(r=–0.737,P=0.010).Our findings can objectively identify the functional abnormality in some brain regions of ischemic stroke patients.
文摘The position and branching of the lingual nerve (LN) in the mandibular third molar region were documented in 30 head hemi-sections (16: right and 14: left). In all the dissections, the LN was found below the level of the posterior alveolar crest (PAC). Branching was observed in 26 (86.7%) of the 30 specimen in which one branch was most frequently given per hemi-section. All branches were located superior to the main trunk of the LN. The mean vertical distance of the LN from the PAC was 10.3 ± 5.2 mm (range: 2.8 - 19.9 mm) whereas the mean antero-posterior distance was 7.1 ± 2.8 mm (range: 1.3 - 15.6 mm). The mean mandibular height from the PAC was 28.7 ± 4.0 mm (range: 23.3 - 40.7 mm). The vertical distance and mandibular height correlated positively giving a ratio of 1:2.7 between the two parameters. There was no significant difference between the two sides of the head. Position of the LN differed from previous studies suggesting that ethnicity may have a role in morphometry of the nerve. Use of different methodology may also contribute to this. Branches of the LN being closer to the PAC may be more prone to injury than the main trunk during surgical treatment.
基金Fund supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (81171319), the Foundation for Medical and Health Sci & Tech Innovation Project of Sanya (2016YW37) and the Special Financial Grant from China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2014T70960).
文摘Objective High resolution structural MR imaging can reveal structural characteristics of cerebral cortex and provide an insight into normal brain development and neuropsychological diseases. The aim of this study was to compare cortical structural characteristics of normal human brain between 3T and 7T MRI systems using surface-based morphometry based on high resolution structural MR imaging.Methods Twelve healthy volunteers were scanned by both 3T with 3D T1-weighted fast spoiled gradient recalled echo (3D T1-FSPGR) sequence and 7T with 3D T1-weighted magnetization-prepared rapid gradient echo (3D T1-MPRAGE) sequence. MRI data were processed with FreeSurfer. The cortical thickness,white and gray matter surface area, convexity, and curvature from data of 3T and 7T were measured and compared by paired t-test.Results Measurements of mean cortical thickness, total white matter surface area and gray matter surface area of 3T were larger than those of 7T (left hemisphere: P=0.000, 0.006, 0.020 respectively; right hemisphere: P=0.000, 0.000, 0.000 respectively). Surface-based morphometry over the whole brain demonstrated both reduced and increased measurements of cortical thickness, white and gray surface area,convexity, and curvature at 7T compared to 3T.Conclusions Inconsistency of brain structural attribute between 3T and 7T was confirmed, and researchers should be cautious about data when using ultrahigh field MR system to investigate brain structural changes.
文摘Due to their large size,rapid growth,and attendant morbidity,staghorn calculi are complex clinical entities that impose significant treatment-related challenges.Moreover,their relative heterogeneitydin terms of both total stone burden and anatomic distributiondlimits the ability to standardize their characterization and the reporting of surgical outcomes.Several morphometry systems currently exist to define the volumetric distribution of renal stones,in general,and to predict the outcomes of percutaneous nephrolithotomy;however,they fall short in their applicability to staghorn stones.In this review,we aim to discuss the clinical utility of morphometry systems and the influence of pelvicalyceal anatomy on the management of these complex calculi.
文摘The paper discusses assessment of various chemical constituents present in groundwater besides morphology, and land form characteristics of twin micro-watersheds (viz., Melekote and Rajaghatta) Dodballapur Taluk, (Karnataka) coming under semi-arid climatic zone. Farmers who are mainly depending on agricultural yields for their living are disappointed due to vagaries of monsoons and undependable rainfall. This is particularly so in arid and semi-arid regions. These regions suffer from water scarcity, soil degradation, low crop yield, high soil erosion and gradual depletion of soil fertility. All these factors culminate in planning for conservation and storage of water in small watersheds for future needs, i.e., during drought conditions. In many areas, it is observed that the water table levels are declining resulting in problems of increased concentration of solutes and deterioration of groundwater quality. All aspects of hydrological studies are covered in relation to watershed management in order to formulate strategies for sustainable agricultural development. Morphometry, landform and topography play an important role in understanding the hydrological response of any watershed. Quantitative morphometric analysis has been carried out on the watershed along with landform and topographical study.
文摘Nowadays, women are more and more resorting to breast surgery for the purposes of isolated esthetics or within the framework of a mammectomy for tumor with its cohort of psychological problems post mutilation often requiring reconstruction. In context of breast cancer increase in Senegal, we have carried out breast morphology in female subjects of the Sahelian type in order to contribute to the development of a morphological database for reconstruction, reduction or breast augmentation. It was a prospective study on 118 female subjects received at Cancer Institute for screening. They were divided into two groups (age ≤ 40 years and age?> 40 years). Subjects’?morphometric variables were collected in anatomical position and correlated with age, parity, obesity and genital activity using. Fifty six subjects (47.5%) were over 40 years of age. There were 40 multiparous (33.9%). Fifteen subjects (12.7%) and six subjects (5%) were obese and morbidly obese, respectively. Subjects in genital activity were 34 (29%). The overall average size of the areola was 4.3 ± 1.5 cm. The nipple was low located with an average of 7.2 ± 3.5 cm. The diameters mentioned above increased significantly with age and body mass index, for p-values ?0.05, with the exception of the vertical diameter. Breast diameters were greater in postmenopausal women. Morphometry of Sahelian-type women’s breast is strongly influenced by socio-demographic data, hence the need to take it into account during reconstruction, reduction or breast augmentation surgeries in Senegal.
基金supported by the NationalNatural Science Foundation of China (30571219)the China National Key Project for New Trasngenic Biological Variety Development (2009ZX08012-007B)
文摘Morphology and morphometry of six biotypes(B,Q,Cv,ZHJ-1,ZHJ-2 and ZHJ-3) of Bemisia tabaci(Gennadius) from China on cotton plants were studied by using microscopes.Nymphal body sizes and characters were measured and observed,especially on the 4th instar(pupal case),including the vasiform orifice,operculum,lingula,length and thickness of anterior and posterior wax margins,width of thoracic tracheal combs.Adult characters of both sexes were investigated including the body size,compound eyes,antennal segments,vasiform orifice,hind tarsi and genitals.The results indicated that differences of some morphological characters or morphometrics were significant among the six biotypes of B.tabaci in China:(1) Pupal sizes of the exotic biotypes(B and Q) were significantly larger than the indigenous biotypes with the following order as B>Q>ZHJ-1>Cv>ZHJ-3>ZHJ-2;(2) for both male and female adults,sizes of all characters investigated in the invading biotypes(B and Q),especially B,were much larger than those of the indigenous ones.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30570609
文摘Voxel-based morphometry-diffeomorphic anatomical registration using exponentiated lie algebra analysis was used to investigate the structural characteristics of white matter in young males with antisocial personality disorder (APD) and healthy controls without APD. The results revealed that APD subjects, relative to healthy subjects, exhibited increased white matter volume in the bilateral prefrontal lobe, right insula, precentral gyrus, bilateral superior temporal gyrus, right postcentral gyrus, right inferior parietal lobule, right precuneus, right middle occipital lobe, right parahippocampal gyrus and bilateral cingulate, and decreased volume in the middle temporal cortex and right cerebellum. The white matter volume in the medial frontal gyrus was significantly correlated with antisocial type scores on the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire in APD subjects. These experimental findings indicate that white matter abnormalities in several brain areas may contribute to antisocial behaviors in APD subjects.
基金supported by the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions,the Medical Clinical Science and Technology Developemnt Fund of Jiangsu University,No.JLY20120122Innovative Climb Program of Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province,No.BK2008010the Natural Science Foundation of Nantong University,No.11Z001
文摘Voxel-based morphometry can be used to quantitatively compare structural differences and functional changes of gray matter in subjects.In the present study,we compared gray matter images of 32 patients with Parkinson's disease and 25 healthy controls using voxel-based morphometry based on 3.0 T high-field magnetic resonance T1-weighted imaging and clinical neurological scale scores.Results showed that the scores in Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment were lower in patients compared with controls.In particular,the scores of visuospatial/executive function items in Montreal Cognitive Assessment were significantly reduced,but mean scores of non-motor symptoms significantly increased,in patients with Parkinson's disease.In addition,gray matter volume was significantly diminished in Parkinson's disease patients compared with normal controls,including bilateral temporal lobe,bilateral occipital lobe,bilateral parietal lobe,bilateral frontal lobe,bilateral insular lobe,bilateral parahippocampal gyrus,bilateral amygdale,right uncus,and right posterior lobe of the cerebellum.These findings indicate that voxel-based morphometry can accurately and quantitatively assess the loss of gray matter volume in patients with Parkinson's disease,and provide essential neuroimaging evidence for multisystem pathological mechanisms involved in Parkinson's disease.
基金Key Program forGuangming Lu,No.BWS11J063 and No.10z026
文摘This study compared the difference in brain structure in 12 mine disaster survivors with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder,7 cases of improved post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms,and 14 controls who experienced the same mine disaster but did not suffer post-traumatic stress disorder,using the voxel-based morphometry method.The correlation between differences in brain structure and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms was also investigated.Results showed that the gray matter volume was the highest in the trauma control group,followed by the symptoms-improved group,and the lowest in the chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group.Compared with the symptoms-improved group,the gray matter volume in the lingual gyrus of the right occipital lobe was reduced in the chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group.Compared with the trauma control group,the gray matter volume in the right middle occipital gyrus and left middle frontal gyrus was reduced in the symptoms-improved group.Compared with the trauma control group,the gray matter volume in the left superior parietal lobule and right superior frontal gyrus was reduced in the chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group.The gray matter volume in the left superior parietal lobule was significantly positively correlated with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory subscale score in the symptoms-improved group and chronic post-traumatic stress disorder group(r=0.477,P=0.039).Our findings indicate that(1) chronic post-traumatic stress disorder patients have gray matter structural damage in the prefrontal lobe,occipital lobe,and parietal lobe,(2) after post-traumatic stress,the disorder symptoms are improved and gray matter structural damage is reduced,but cannot recover to the trauma-control level,and(3) the superior parietal lobule is possibly associated with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder.Post-traumatic stress disorder patients exhibit gray matter abnormalities.
