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Copyright of Journal of Marine & Coastal Science is the property of Universitas Airlangga and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Hypericum perforatum L., is a sprawling, leafy herb that grows in open, disturbed areas, known as St. John's wort, has a variety of secondary metabolites that can be used for medicinal and therapeutic purposes. Heavy metals have become the most dangerous pollutants in the environment. The effect of cadmium chloride, lead nitrate, silver nitrate, methyl jasmonate, and salicylic acid was studied on several morphometric and biochemical features of St. John's wort simultaneously using the Taguchi statistical method. The results showed cadmium chloride and lead nitrate reduced the morphometric and biochemical properties of St. John's wort while salicylic acid compensated for the adverse effects of heavy metals. Simultaneously, use of salicylic acid and silver nitrate with cadmium chloride and lead nitrate reduced the toxic effects of these metals on morphometric properties. Methyl jasmonate improved growth characteristics at low levels and inhibited at higher levels. Also, according to the results, salicylic acid could reduce the effects of heavy metals on the biochemical properties, while silver nitrate acts like heavy metals, especially at higher levels. Salicylic acid reduced the harmful effects of these heavy metals and at all levels was able to create a better induction effect on St. John's wort. These elicitors mainly changed the adverse effects of heavy metals by strengthening the pathways of the antioxidant system in St. John's wort. The research assumptions were validated, which suggests that the Taguchi method could be considered in an optimum culture of medicinal plants under different treatments such as heavy metals and elicitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, it was aimed to reveal the physical and chemical characterization of the bone structures during body development periods (prepubertal period, period between adolescence and adulthood) and after (young adult period and old adult period) in male and female guinea pigs. In this study, 40 guinea pigs (20 male, 20 female) were used. Morphometric measurements, X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis for mineral levels, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis for surface area, and porosity analysis were applied to the bones. The male guinea pigs had greater values than females in the other three categories, with the exception of the second group, when the females have higher values in morphometric measurements. Ca levels rose up to the third group, as did P levels in the males, peaking in the third group and declining in the fourth. As with phosphorus, there was a progressive rise in females from the first to the fourth group. Fe, Zn, and Sr elements had the greatest values in both genders in the first group. In all four groups, the females had greater Zn levels than males. The highest Ca/P ratio was found in the third male group and the fourth female group. This study revealed that adolescence, adulthood, and gender are effective in the physical and chemical characterization of bone structure in guinea pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a survey of soil nematodes in Iran, a population of a species belonging to the order Mononchida was recovered. The new species, Paramylonchulus iranicus sp. n. is characterized by body length (1292–1535 μm in females and 1476–1670 μm in males), c (20.2–29.0 in females and 19.9–27.4 in males), buccal cavity length (23.0–26.0 μm), post vulval uterine sac length (135–162 μm), spicule length (46.0–50.0 μm), gubernaculum length (8.0–11.0 μm), and tail length (49.0–70.0 μm in females and 55.0–73.0 μm in males). Canonical discriminant analysis clearly separated P. iranicus sp. n. from the closely related species Paramylonchulus based on the important morphometric characters of females and males. A molecular study of the 18S rDNA region of P. iranicus sp. n. places this population in a well-supported clade with other species of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paradise threadfin a species from the Perciformes order and polynemidae family is one of the commercially important fishes in the south-west coastal region of Bangladesh. The study was conducted to know the morphometric and meristic characteristics of this fish species. A total 120 fish samples were collected from May 2021 to April 2022 ranging from 11.2-23.5 cm TL and 9.77-100.87 g BW. The fin formula was: D1: 7; D2: 14-16; P1: 15-16/VII; P2: 6 -9; A: 14-15; C: 16-18. Off the LWRs equations, BW = 0.0028×FL3.55 was the well-expressed model depending on the largeness of the R2 value. The value of slope (b) ranging from 3.07 to 3.55 indicates a positive allometric growth pattern. The LLRs were highly correlated (R2=0.917) and regression of TL vs FL, SL, and Pr2ndDL showed the best-fitted model among the 8 equations. The correlations among 45 different LLRs, 37 correlations showed a very high positive correlation (r = 0.91-0.99) whereas, eight LLRs exhibited a high positive correlation (r = 0.84-0.90). This study will support future studies for the management of P. paradiseus in the coastal regions and the mangrove adjacent rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many environmental factors affect the morphology of migratory fish species, such as salinity, water flow rate, and temperature. However, studies on changes in fish morphology under environmental variations from salt water to brackish water are still limited in many fish species, especially in Terapon jarbua. This study aims to investigate the differences in the morphological parameters of T. jarbua between the coastal sea (seawater) and lagoon (brackish water); and between male and female fish based on a landmark morphological approach. Additionally, the genetic diversity of T. jarbua populations in Central Vietnam was elucidated using the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtDNA COI) sequence as a molecular marker. The analytical results indicated no sexual dimorphism in the T. jarbua population, yet conformational differences exist between the two studied aquatic species. The analysis of 42 mtDNA COI sequences collected from Central Vietnam identified 13 haplotypes with medium genetic diversity and low genetic differentiation between the Tam Giang lagoon and Thua Thien Hue coastal (Fst = 0.028) and not significant (p = 0.126). Most haplotypes obtained are present in reference populations, indicating a high genetic exchange between populations. We proposed that the T. jarbua population in Central Vietnam has a stable connection with neighboring populations (China, Taiwan, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Biology is the property of Instituto Internacional de Ecologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Terra Latinoamericana is the property of Sociedad Mexicana de la Ciencia del Suelo A.C. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The mule is a sterile hybrid domestic animal that results from the breeding of a male donkey with a female horse, understanding the reproductive biology of these species is very critical. The goal of this paper was to perform a comparative and more accurate histomorphometric of the testicles in Barb horse, donkeys and mules. Microscopic examinations and histological description were carried on genital tract of horses, donkeys and mules healthy and mature; this study was conducted during April-May 2018. The histological and the morphological results shows a similarity between the two equine species and the infertile hybrid for the testicles, the epididymis and the vas deferens. However, the difference was presented on the morphometric data; vas deferens was more voluminous in the horse and donkey than a mule. Moreover, the differences were significantly higher for the surface of the seminiferous tubules and for the epididymis. The lumen of the seminiferous tubules in mule was significantly higher than in the horse and donkey. Absence of gametes in the epididymal cavity and lower number of gametes in the mule. Furthermore, we have noted the presence of spermatozoa in one mule 16.67%. Therefore, the mule could complete development of spermatogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the survey of predacious nematode of Pakistan two new species and eight new records of the following species were recovered. Mylonchulus musae n. sp., collected from the rhizophoric soil of Musa paradisiaca L. in Karachi Sindh, Discolaimus tabacum n. sp., from the roots of Nicotiana tabacum L. in Manshera, KP, Discolaimus conicus Siddiqi, 2005 from the roots of Saccharum officinarum L. in Mirpurkhas, Sindh, Discolaimus laksi Khan and Laha, 1982 from soil around the roots of Gossypium hirsutum L. in Sargodha, Punjab, Discolaimus omanensis Siddiqi, 2005 from roots of Mangifera indica L., in Faisalabad, Punjab, Discolaimus paratenax Siddiqi, 2005 from decaying matter in Peshawar, KP, Dorylaimoides micoletzkii (de Man, 1921) Thorne and Swanger, 1936 from soil around the roots of Vitis vinefera L. in Quetta, Balochistan, Sectonema ventralis Thorne,1930 from roots of Prunus persica L. in Peshawar, KP, Ironus terranovus Ebsary, 1985 from soil around the roots of Musa paradisiacal L. in Nawabshah, Sindh and Seinura oswegoensis (Van der Linde, 1938) Goodey, 1960 from the roots of Oryza sativa L. in Nawabshah, Sindh. Morphological and morphometric details, description illustrations, along with the photomicrographs are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weight prediction in live animals remains challenging. Several studies have been carried out trying to predict the body weight in livestock through morphometric measurements, the Schaeffer's model is one of them. However, the fit of those studies in small ruminants is not well covered. Therefore, a novel model to predict the weight of Pelibuey sheep through morphometric measurements and the Gray Wolf Optimizer algorithm is presented. The model involves calculating the volume of the specimen through a truncated cone and leaving density as an estimation parameter of the algorithm. Also, two alternative models were made where the original Schaeffer's model was optimized. The modified models from the original Schaeffer's formula showed improvements up to 22.61% in R-squared and decreases up to 33.48% in RMSE. However, the truncated cone model had the best estimates, with an RMSE of 2.57, R-squared of 89.02%, and the lowest AIC. This represented a 25.13% improvement in R-squared and a 38.31% reduction in the RMSE. The model is expected to improve its efficiency if the cattle sample is larger, and it is also intended to be implemented in animals of other proportions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine some morphometric and meristic characteristics of individuals belonging to Alburnus sellal Heckel, 1843 species, which was caught from Özlüce Dam Lake, the mainstream of which is Peri Stream. Some morphometric features and their ratios to each other in 135 A. sellal individuals were calculated as mean, maximum, minimum, standard deviation, standard error, and coefficient of variation. In addition, the percentile ratio of some body measurements to standard length, the regression equations, and the correlation coefficients were calculated, and it was determined that there were strong positive relations. In meristic features, lateral line (80-88) and the number of scales in the transversal direction (13-17/5-7), the number of simple and soft rays on the fins (dorsal III/8-9, ventral I-II/8-9, pectoral I/14-17, anal III/11-15), the number of rakes in the first-gill arch (13-18), the row and number of pharyngeal teeth (2.5-5.2) by being detected, descriptive features of the species were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten skulls of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops spp.) collected from various locations along the coast of Pakistan were examined. The skulls were initially divided into two groups, Group-A (n = 7) and Group-B (n = 3), based on specific morphological characters. The data were further tested statistically using Student's t-test and violin plots. The results clustered the specimens into two morphological groups. Twelve morphological variables recommended for visual identification distinctly categorised skulls in two groups (e.g., small cranium with longer/slender rostrum (Group-A) versus stockier and wider skull (Group-B); presence of premaxillary convexity in the lateral view and premaxilla pinch in the dorsal view on the rostrum (Group-A); temporal fossa rounded (Group-A) versus small and elongated in shape (Group-B); teeth counts). The morphological variations and the supporting statistical results clearly identified the two known bottlenose dolphin species: T. aduncus (Group-A) and T. truncatus (Group-B). This study confirms the presence of these two species of Tursiops in Pakistani waters. It adds new information useful for developing conservation action plans required for conservation of cetacean species in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The freshwater ichthyofauna of Wallacea is diverse and understudied. A baseline survey of Bolano Sau Lake in Parigi Moutong District, Central Sulawesi Province, Indonesia in 2019 found an eleotrid goby (local name payangka) with characters conforming to the genus Giuris, long considered monophyletic as G. margaritacea/G. margaritaceus but recently found to comprise at least eight species. This study focused on the molecular (DNA barcoding) identification and phenotypic characters of the payangka. Methods: Payangka samples were collected from August to December 2019 in collaboration with local fishermen, weighed and measured, and preserved in 75% ethanol. Length, weight, sex (n=111) and 17 morphometric characters/six meristic counts (n=42) were recorded. DNA barcoding was performed on a fin clipping preserved in 96% ethanol. Homologous nucleotide sequences were obtained from public (GenBank and BOLD) databases, analysis conducted in MEGA X, and phylogenetic trees edited in the Interactive Tree of Life (iToL). Results: Within the deeply divided Giuris clade, the payangka sequence resolved into a sub-clade identified as Giuris laglaizei (Sauvage 1880), a recently resurrected taxon, based on a sequence provided by Philippe Keith. The length-weight relationship (L = 0.0087∙W3.162) indicated mildly allometric positive growth. Size distribution differed significantly between male and female fish with significantly larger mean size of males (13.56 cm) than females (11.62 cm). The meristic formula was: D VI-I,8 A I,8 P 13 V I,5 C15. Phylogenetic analysis indicated four Giuris species in wetlands around Tomini Bay and five in Sulawesi. Conclusions: This first record of G. laglaizei in Indonesia advances knowledge of Wallacean and Indo-Pacific Gobiiformes biogeography and highlights the need for a revision of the conservation status of the taxa currently grouped under Giuris margaritacea/G. margaritaceus in the IUCN Red List and FishBase databases. The data will inform biodiversity and fisheries management at local and regional levels.

Introduction: This study was performed to evaluate the effects of nigella sativa meal and multi enzyme on growth performance, relative weight of carcass components, blood parameters and intestinal morphology of broiler chicken.Materials and Methods: The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with five treatments in four replicates and 14 chickens in each replicate (80 chickens). Broiler chickens was fed with diets including: without nigella sativa meal and enzymes (control), 7.5% nigella sativa meal (without enzymes), 7.5% nigella sativa meal with 0.2% multi enzyme, 15% nigella sativa meal (without enzymes) and 15% nigella sativa meal with 0.2% multi enzyme for 42 days. Then, the performance of chickens, blood biochemical indicators, intestinal morphology and economic index were measured and recorded. Finally, the analysis of data was performed using GLM method by SAS software. The means were compared using Duncan's multiple range tests.Results and Discussion: The results showed that, treatments did not have a significant effect on feed intake, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio during the growth period. Whereas, the effect of experimental treatments was significant on feed intake, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio in the finishing period. The lowest feed conversion ratio was observed in chickens fed control group and 7.5% nigella sativa meal without enzyme (P

Scorpions are one of the most venomous animals which cause serious public health problems. The sting of scorpions can sometimes be fatal depending on the scorpion species involved. So far, sixty-six (66) scorpion species have been identified in Iran. Annually, about 40-50000 cases of scorpionism are reported in Iran. Odontobuthus doriae and O. bidentatus are among the most medically important scorpion species in Iran, and they are very similar to each other in coloration, carination, and trichobotrial patterns. This morphometric study aimed to compare some of the important morphological characteristics in order to identify the key differences between these two species. A total of 45 morphological characters were measured using calipers and stereomicroscope, and 55 morphological characters and ratios (relative of length to width ratio of morphological characters of scorpions) were analyzed. The independent sample t-test in SPSS software (version 24) was used for the statistical analyses in this study. The mean total length, carapace width, length of fixed and moveable fingers, and chelicerae length of O. doriae were greater than those of O. bidentatus in our study area. The morphological measurements displayed a clear distinction between O. doriae and O. bidentatus in our study area; therefore, they can be used as morphological identification keys for distinguishing between these two species.

The objective of the present study was to analyze the morphometric and meristic variations of an estuarine fish, Etroplus suratensis, in five locations along the South Indian coastal region. In total, 651 individuals were collected and 16 morphometric and six meristic counts were taken. The results of univariate (ANOVA) and multivariate (Principal Component Analysis, PCA) analyses showed that the east coast stocks (Machilipatnam, Mudasalodai, Rajakkamangalam) have overlapping morphological characteristics, whereas the west coast stock (Cochin) was distinctly different, but there were no significant differences observed in meristic characters among the five stocks. Therefore, it was presumed that Machilipatnam, Mudasalodai, and Rajakkamangalam were the same stock. The morphometric data discriminated E. suratensis into two stocks, i.e., those of the east and west coasts. However, further molecular-based analysis is very much needed to validate these stocks.

Background and Aim: Indigenous Kedah-Kelantan (KK) cattle are well adapted with distinguished reproductive capabilities; they account for more than 70% of the domestic beef production in Malaysia. The published literature on the phenotypic and morphometric characteristics of KK cattle are sparse and require further improvement. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the phenotypic and morphometric characteristics of Malaysian KK cattle and method of estimating live body weight (BW). Materials and Methods: Morphometric and phenotypic measurements were taken from 184 KK cattle (102 males and 82 females) sourced from three regions. Each animal's color pattern was recorded for their coat, muzzle, face, eyelashes, horns, tail switch, hoof, and legs through visual observation. Length measurements were taken of the body, face, ear, horn, tail, and rump. Several morphological features such as length, width, and girth were measured using a measuring tape, while wither height and hip height were assessed with a measuring scale. Results: Brown is the predominant coat color in KK cattle (>82%). The overall means of head length, face width (FW), ear length, horn length, wither height, heart girth (HG), body length (BL), and rump length were 42.5±4.5, 17.3±2.9, 19.8±3.1, 9.9±4.4, 104.3±7.1, 127.4±13.2, 98.3±12.3, and 32.4±4.1 cm, respectively. Different morphometric parameters of length, width, and circumference were significantly (p

Euthynnus affinis , also known as Kawakawa, is a species of fish that is very significant to the fishing industry, particularly in the Indo-Pacific area. Regrettably, its stock structure and regional species' management are poorly understood. This research aimed to employ a morphometric approach and determine if different stocks exist among 188 specimens of E. affinis obtained from three different areas: the Celebes Sea, the South China Sea, and the Sulu Sea, all surrounding Malaysian Borneo. Multivariate studies, including PCA (Principal Component Analysis) and DFA (Discriminant Function Analysis), were utilized to differentiate eight E. affinis populations based on 12 morphometric parameters. The findings divulged that E. affinis populations of Malaysian Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) were relatively homogenous, as indicated by the DFA and the principal component's scatterplot. Moreover, hierarchical cluster analysis focused on the Mahalanobis distances demonstrated that eight populations of E. affinis were grouped into three separate groups. The first group comprises Kota Kinabalu (Sabah), Mukah, Bintawa, and Pulau Bruit (Sarawak) populations. Euthynnus affinis from Lahad Datu and Kudat (Sabah) were clustered in the second group, while the third group consisted of Tawau and Sandakan (Sabah) populations. This study's findings will give important preliminary data on E. affinis for effectively managing and protecting Malaysian Borneo's regional waterways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wetlands’ morphometric or shape properties, such as their area and perimeter, impact a multitude of ecosystem functions and services. However, current models used to quantify these functions often only use area as an independent variable, as the static area and perimeter of different wetlands have been found to be closely related. The study uses monthly inundation maps, derived from remote sensing data, to assess the temporal covariation of geographically isolated wetlands’ perimeter and surface area. The results show that using static representations of wetlands to evaluate temporal dynamic perimeter–area relationships can introduce significant discrepancies and that these discrepancies can be reduced if evaluations using static data are performed separately for each wetlandscape. This study concludes that models that use implicit area–perimeter relationships based on static wetland representations, as is usually the case, should be applied with caution. Additionally, it suggests that incorporating perimeter–area relationships from temporally dynamic data can improve estimates of wetland functions.

Introduction: The knowledge of morphometric parameters of laminae of cervical vertebrae is indispensable in surgical procedures and developing instrumentation for surgical processes. Literature reports ethnic and geographical variations reported in these dimensions. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included analysis of laminae of 212 cervical vertebrae (C3–C6). The length of superior border of lamina and inferior border of lamina was measured on the right and left sides using vernier caliper. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was done with the help of Microsoft Excel version 2021. Results: The length of the superior border of lamina on both sides increases from C3 to C5. The length of the inferior border of the lamina on both sides decreases from C3 to C4, then on the right side, it increases from C4 to C5 and then decreases from C5 to C6, and on the left side, it increases from C4 to C6. At C4, the length of superior border of lamina on the right side differed statistically from the length of superior border of lamina on the left side (P = 0.042). A significant difference between lengths of the inferior border of laminae on the right and left sides was also found at the C5 vertebra (P = 0.001) and C6 vertebra (P = 0.012). No significant difference in thickness and height of lamina was observed between right and left sides. Conclusion: The present study indicates morphometric parameters of laminae of typical cervical vertebrae in the North West Indian population differ from the same parameters in Brazilian as well as South Indian populations. The length of superior border as well as inferior border of lamina has significant differences between right and left sides. However, there is no significant difference in height and thickness of laminae between right and left sides.

The European sprat (Sprattus sprattus) represents the unit stock shared among the Black Sea countries. It has a key role in the Black Sea ecosystem and is determined by its importance from both a commercial and an ecological point of view. Up to now, there are few studies on the meristic, morphometric and genetic characteristics of this species. In this study, the species were specified and studied for meristic, morphometric and genetic characteristics. Mitochondrial gene regions which 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), were studied and compared with some of the family Clupeidae species in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and the phylogenetic relationship was examined. A total of 14 haplotypes were determined for the mitochondrial COI gene region and 3 haplotypes were determined for the 16S rRNA gene region. This study will contribute to the sustainable management of this species as well as be a basis for future studies.

Background: The freshwater ichthyofauna of Wallacea is diverse and understudied. A baseline survey of Bolano Sau Lake in Parigi Moutong District, Central Sulawesi Province, Indonesia in 2019 found an eleotrid goby (local name payangka) with characters conforming to the genus Giuris, long considered monophyletic as G. margaritacea/G. margaritaceus but recently found to comprise at least eight species. This study focused on the molecular (DNA barcoding) identification and phenotypic characters of the payangka. Methods: Payangka samples were collected from August to December 2019 in collaboration with local fishermen, weighed and measured, and preserved in 75% ethanol. Length, weight, sex (n=111) and 17 morphometric characters/six meristic counts (n=42) were recorded. DNA barcoding was performed on a fin clipping preserved in 96% ethanol. Homologous nucleotide sequences were obtained from public (GenBank and BOLD) databases, analysis conducted in MEGA X, and phylogenetic trees edited in the Interactive Tree of Life (iToL). Results: Within the deeply divided Giuris clade, the payangka sequence resolved into a sub-clade identified as Giuris laglaizei (Sauvage 1880), a recently resurrected taxon, based on a sequence provided by Philippe Keith. The length-weight relationship (L = 0.0087∙W3.162) indicated mildly allometric positive growth. Size distribution differed significantly between male and female fish with significantly larger mean size of males (13.56 cm) than females (11.62 cm). The meristic formula was: D VI-I,8 A I,8 P 13 V I,5 C15. Phylogenetic analysis indicated four Giuris species in wetlands around Tomini Bay and five in Sulawesi. Conclusions: This first record of G. laglaizei in Indonesia advances knowledge of Wallacean and Indo-Pacific Gobiiformes biogeography and highlights the need for a revision of the conservation status of the taxa currently grouped under Giuris margaritacea/G. margaritaceus in the IUCN Red List and FishBase databases. The data will inform biodiversity and fisheries management at local and regional levels.

Introduction: Knowledge of morphometric dimensions of cervical vertebrae is of immense help in choosing and designing implants for the cervical spine. Previous studies on this subject have emphasized that these dimensions have significant variations among different populations. Aim: To determine and analyse morphometric parameters of the body of typical cervical vertebrae (C3-C6) in the Northwest Indian population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 164 typical cervical vertebrae (C3 to C6) retrieved from the skeleton collection in the Department of Anatomy at Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India from February 2020 to April 2022. Morphometric parameters measured in the study were anteroposterior diameters and transverse diameter of both surfaces of the body, and height of anterior surface of the body using a digital vernier calipers. Descriptive statistical analysis was done with the help of Microsoft Excel version 2021. Results: Of the total 164 sample, on the superior surface of the body anteroposterior diameter increased from C3 vertebrae (Mean±Standard Deviation {SD}= 14.67±1.42 mm) to C6 vertebrae (Mean±SD=15.73 mm). The anteroposterior diameter of the inferior surfaces of the body increased from C3 vertebrae (Mean±SD=15.71 mm) to C6 vertebrae (Mean±SD=16.26 mm). Similarly, the transverse diameter of the superior surface also increased from C3 vertebrae (Mean value of 20.24 mm) to C6 vertebrae (Mean value of 23.82 mm). Furthermore, the transverse diameter of the inferior surface increased from C3 vertebrae (Mean±SD=19.35 mm) to C6 vertebrae (Mean±SD=22.99 mm). However, the height of vertebral bodies was found minimum in C5 vertebrae (Mean±SD=10.69 mm) and maximum in C3 vertebrae (Mean±SD=12.04 mm). Conclusion: The dimensions of morphometric parameters observed in the present study were differing from those reported by studies carried out in south Indian population and in the Western world. However, the study did not find any significant side differences in morphometric parameters of bodies of typical cervical vertebrae. Population-specific normal data are reported in this study for the first time.

The present study tackled the geomorphological perils of Rahaliya town, which is located in the southeastern part of Ramadi district within Anbar Governorate. It occupies an area of (2863 km2). The natural, morphometric and hydrological features were studied, and the impact of these features in determining the strength and quality of geomorphological perils within the study area was shown. However, the study used modern technologies and special mathematical equations in calculating the values of the variables required in order to draw maps of the perils to which the study area is exposed, as the study included determining the dangers of morphometric, hydrological and net flow features. studied. The basins in which the degree of danger is (1), which is of less danger, included one basin that is (4) to occupy a percentage (20%) of the total basins, while the basins in which the degree of danger is (2), which is of medium danger, occupied a percentage of ( 40%) of the total basins, to include basins (2, 5), while the basins with a degree of dangernet (4) and which are very dangerous occupied (40%) of the total studied basins, represented by basins (1, 3).

Among the alternative options of antibiotics as growth promoters (AGP) to reduce the antimicrobial resistance, probiotics are the attractive alternative which needs to compare at different doses with AGP on the intestinal health of Japanese quail. For this, a total 75 Japanese quails were equally assigned to five treatment groups having three replicates in each group (n=5). In addition to basal diet (control), four other groups were supplemented by AGP and probiotics at the dose of 0.015 gm/bird, 0.03 gm/bird, and 0.045 gm/bird. The results revealed, 0.03 gm/bird probiotics group had significantly (p [ J Adv Biotechnol Exp Ther 2021; 4(3.000): 265-275]

Abstract Background Culicoides kingi and Culicoides oxystoma belong to the Schultzei group of biting midges. These two species are vectors of disease in livestock of economic importance. As described in the literature, morphological identification for discrimination between them is still unclear. However, species-specific identification is necessary to solve taxonomic challenges between species and to understand their roles in disease transmission and epidemiology. This study aims to develop accurate tools to discriminate C. oxystoma from C. kingi using traditional morphometry and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR RFLP) assays for use in developing countries. Methods Specimens were collected from the region of Kairouan in central Tunisia. A total of 446 C. oxystoma/C. kingi individuals were identified using traditional morphometric analyses combined with PCR–RFLP of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene. Thirteen morphometric measurements were performed from the head, wings, and abdomen of slide-mounted specimens, and six ratios were calculated between these measurements. Multivariate analyses of the morphometric measurements were explored to identify which variables could lead to accurate species identification. Results Four variables, namely antennae, wings, spermathecae, and palpus length, were suitable morphometric characteristics to differentiate between the species. Digestion with the SspI restriction enzyme of the PCR product led to good discriminative ability. Molecular procedures and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the efficiency of this simple and rapid PCR–RFLP method. Conclusions This study highlights for the first time in Tunisia the presence of C. oxystoma and its discrimination from C. kingi using abdominal measurements and the PCR–RFLP method. This approach could be applied in future epidemiological studies at the national and international levels. Graphical Abstract

In the current manuscript, we present the results of comparative analysis of seven species of Meromyza flies in the “variegata” cluster and of the evolutionary close species M. inornata, based the following criteria: 1) 14 external key features; 2) shape and area of the anterior processes of postgonites; 3) mtDNA CO1 region and 4) host plant diversity data. We could demonstrate the primary role of host plants in species formation inside genus Meromyza and calculated the timing of the divergence of M. inornata and the species of “variegata” cluster. Based on our estimates of evolution rate for mtDNA CO1 gene, we could conclude that that divergence of herbs happened before the speciation of grass flies Meromyza. Meromyza species, close to the ancestral species of the cluster, are adapted to the wide range of host plants. We revealed the most informative variables h1, S and Plant analysing data with the following statistical methods: linear discriminant analysis - LDA, regularised discriminant analysis - RDA, flexible discriminant analysis – FDA and probabilistic neural network - PNN. The highest classification accuracy was achieved using PNN (99%) and the lowest when using LDA (95.8%). When the Plant trait was excluded, the classification accuracy decreased by 14%. We revealed the significant trends in size change of the anterior process of the postgonite amongst studies species. This morphological structure is an element of male reproductive apparatus critical for the restriction of interspecies mating. We determined three branches of speciation in the “variegata” cluster and five trends in the evolution of this cluster, based on the external morphological features. We showed that M. variegata and especially M. mosquensis, the species closest to the ancestral haplotype, have the largest number of features typical of those of M. inornata. Based on the external features and the area of the anterior process of the postgonite, we reconstructed the phylogenetic position of M. elbergi in the cluster. In accordance with the obtained outcomes, we could conclude that the distribution, species diversity and the adaptation of the grass flies to narrow oligophagy were directly connected to host plant diversity. The adaptation to different host plants could be the main factor in divergence of grass flies and their evolution started later than the diversification in the Pooideae subfamily of grasses.

Background: The ascending aorta gives rise to the two main coronary arteries including the right coronary artery (RCA) and left coronary artery (LCA). The right coronary artery emerges from the right anterior aortic sinus, while the left coronary artery emerges from the left posterior aortic sinus. Aim of the study: The current study aims to describe the normal anatomical coronary artery length, origin, external diameter, and distribution. Material and methods: Twenty hearts of twenty normal Iraqi adults, with age ranged from 40-70 years were taken from the forensic medicine department of Kirkuk Teaching Hospital in the Azadi region during the period from September 2021 to June 2022. The study specimens were grouped according to the cadaver age and were inspected grossly for the course of each coronary artery, anatomical position, width, and length. Results: The mean length and diameter of RCA 124.3 ± 35.3 mm and 3.4 ± 0.7 mm respectively. The mean length and diameter of branches of RCA was for right marginal artery (RMA) 42.4 ± 11.6 mm, 1.6 ± 0.3 mm, for sino atrial nodal artery (SANA) 15.3 ± 6.7 mm, 1.2 ± 0.3 mm, for posterior interventricular artery (PIVA) 54.5 ± 10.1 mm, 1.9 ± 0.4 mm and for conus artery 16.2 ± 8.2 mm, 0.9 ± 0.2 mm respectively. The mean length and diameter of LCA 11.2 ± 3.5 mm and 4.2 ± 2.0 mm respectively. The mean length and diameter of branches of LCA was for anterior interventricular artery (AIVA) 85.4 ± 17.8 mm, 3.1 ± 0.2 mm, for left circumflex artery (LCX) 45.1± 17.9 mm, 2.7 ± 0.6 mm, for left marginal artery (LMA) 40.3 ± 16.4 mm, 1.5 ± 0.3 mm and for left diagonal artery (LDA) 26.6 ± 12.4 mm, 1.9 ± 0.4 mm respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thynnichthys thynnoides is a freshwater fish found in Kebun Nopi Lake. This fish has economic value and is often caught by fishermen. A study aims to determine the growth pattern of T. thynnoides. The study used a survey method. Sampling was carried out 4 times from March-April 2022. The results showed that 107 fish captured consist of 39 females and 68 males. T. thynnoides from the Danau Kebun Nopi has TL 83-165 mm, SL 58-130 mm, HDL 18-30 and weight 5,61-42,04 gr. The meristic characteristic of the fish were as follow: D.I.8-10, P.10.4-7, V.1.7-8, A.1.5-7, C.2.16-18, 20-22 pre-dorsal fin scale, 44-48 around the body scale, 14-20 caudal peduncle scale and 57-60 lateral line scale. The relationship between length and weight of females showed positive allometric (b=3,26) and males showed negative allometric (b=2,62). The condition factors from 0,6854-1,2858 where females were generally in better condition than the males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The acetabulum is a concave surface of the pelvis. The head of the femur meets with the pelvis at the acetabulum, forming the hip joint. There are three bones of the os coxae (hip bone) that come together to form the acetabulum. Contributing a little more than two-fifths of the structure is the ischium, which provides lower and side boundaries to the acetabulum. The ilium forms the upper boundary, providing a little less than two-fifths of the structure of the acetabulum. The rest is formed by the pubis, near the midline. Aim: Morphometric Analysis of acetabular depth in normal population hips and its clinical correlation Materials And Methods: This is a prospective, descriptive, cross sectional and observational study conducted at Department of Anatomy and Radiology, Government Medical College, Ajamgrah and Department of Anatomy and Radiology, Index Medical College, Indore from January 2020 December 2023. Study group divided into 3 groups: Group A: 18-35 years, Group B: 36-55 years and Group C: 56-75 years. Acetabular images will be acquired using CT scanner (Somatom, Volume Zoom, Siemens) at 3.0 mm thickness and 12.0 mm table feed per rotation. The four row multi slices CT scanner will be conducted using 120 kV and 90 mAs with recon increment will be set to 1.5 and 1. 25 mm collimation. Result: In our study total 154 subjects were enrolled. This sample was divided by gender with mean, Standard deviation and range value. In our study male was 92 (60%) and female was 62 (40%). Conclusion: A thorough knowledge of dimensions of acetabulum and femoral head in both sexes will assist the Biomedical Engineers to construct suitable prostheses. This gives the average values of various parameters to near normal situations as encountered in patients at the operation table. Knowledge of the anatomical parameters of bony components of the hip joint are also very much essential to get a better understanding of the etiopathogenesis of primary osteoarthritis and will help in early detection of disputed sex by Forensic experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate key morphometric features identifiable on routine preoperative computed tomography (CT) imaging indicative of incisional hernia (IH) formation following abdominal surgery. Background: IH is a pervasive surgical disease that impacts all surgical disciplines operating in the abdominopelvic region and affecting 13% of patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Despite the significant costs and disability associated with IH, there is an incomplete understanding of the pathophysiology of hernia. Methods: A cohort of patients (n=21,501) that underwent colorectal surgery was identified, and clinical data and demographics were extracted, with a primary outcome of IH. Two datasets of case-control matched pairs were created for feature measurement, classification, and testing. Morphometric linear and volumetric measurements were extracted as features from anonymized preoperative abdominopelvic CT scans. Multivariate Pearson testing was performed to assess correlations among features. Each feature's ability to discriminate between classes was evaluated using 2-sided paired t testing. A support vector machine was implemented to determine the predictive accuracy of the features individually and in combination. Results: Two hundred and twelve patients were analyzed (106 matched pairs). Of 117 features measured, 21 features were capable of discriminating between IH and non-IH patients. These features are categorized into three key pathophysiologic domains: 1) structural widening of the rectus complex, 2) increased visceral volume, 3) atrophy of abdominopelvic skeletal muscle. Individual prediction accuracy ranged from 0.69 to 0.78 for the top 3 features among 117. Conclusions: Three morphometric domains identifiable on routine preoperative CT imaging were associated with hernia: widening of the rectus complex, increased visceral volume, and body wall skeletal muscle atrophy. This work highlights an innovative pathophysiologic mechanism for IH formation hallmarked by increased intra-abdominal pressure and compromise of the rectus complex and abdominopelvic skeletal musculature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Ayurveda, the ancient medicinal plant identification system is based on the morphological comparison of leaf, fruit, flower, root, stem etc. Botanists use morphometrics for aquatic and semi-aquatic medicinal plants classification. However, deep learning networks provide the highest image classification result in digital image processing. Existing deep learning algorithms generate feature maps for pixel-wise image classification. In the feature map of deep learning output, most of the morphological features are missing. This issue leads to the Catastrophic forgetting issue of deep learning. To generate a traditional morphological feature-based medicinal plant identification system, we are introducing morphometrics and morphological feature-based deep learning networks for aquatic and semi-aquatic plant classification. This article contains: (a) A detailed morphological features database of aquatic and semi-aquatic medicinal plants, (b) a summary of the importance of the morphological features-based leaf classification, (c) a morphological features extraction algorithm and (d) the morphological features-based deep learning approach for aquatic and semi-aquatic plant classification. This human brain-like procedure achieved 97% classification accuracy and reduced the Catastrophic forgetting issue of continual learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white goby fish, Glossogobius giuris is a germplasm in Tempe Lake that is decreasing due to the genetic barrier. This becomes a threat for its population in the three integrated lakes, namely Sidenreng, Lapompakka, and Tempe. Hence, efforts are needed to preserve its population and habitat by conservation programs to prevent the extinction of this fish. This conservation program is carried out when the basic biology information and population structure of goby fish are known. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the genetic variation of goby fish through morphometric and phylogenetic analysis in the three integrated lakes. The morphometric analysis was carried out using Stepwise Discriminant Analysis, while the difference in genetic distance between populations was analyzed using Predicted Group Membership and Pairwise Group Comparison, and the identifiable characters were analyzed using the Equality of Group Means Test. Similarly, the phylogenetic analysis was conducted based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) targeting Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I (COI). The morphometric analysis showed that each population has a special character with a very low value of similarity between populations. Furthermore, there were 17 and 18 identifiable characters for males and females, respectively in this study. Based on phylogenetic analysis, three groups of goby fish with low genetic diversity were identified. In addition, there was one haplotype shared by the three populations, but the other 7 haplotypes are unique, which indicated genetic speciation of goby fish from these lakes. Based on these results, goby fish from the three integrated lakes have special characters, adaptive potential, and genetic speciation due to the declining population in the lakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Reducing complications and death from heart disease depends on recognizing risk factors and educational planning to correct these factors. By using the relevant research, it is possible to help improve the cardiovascular health of these people. In order to achieve these goals, the present study intends to investigate the relationship between morphometric indices and cardiovascular risk factors in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Material and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, anthropometric indices of 158 candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery referred to Shahid Madani Hospital (Tabriz University of Medical Sciences) were measured and its relationship with the incidence of cardiovascular disease and the need for surgery was investigated. Results: Explanation coefficient values also showed that each of the blood sugar indices, WHtR, BF and BMI, alone accounted for 8.9%, 6.9%, 6.9% and 7.7% of Tcho changes in men, respectively. Conclusion: It seems that patients who are candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery are prone to cardiovascular risk factors due to their sedentary occupation on the one hand and little control over their diet on the other. Early detection of cardiovascular disease and risk factors in these people can have very positive results in reducing the incidence of these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-three species and four subspecies of odontocete belonging to five families (Delphinidae, Physeteridae, Kogiidae, Phocoenidae, and Ziphiidae) are distributed along the Pacific coast of northern Mexico. The morphological variability of these species has been studied extensively and a number of taxonomic studies have focused on cranial characteristics. The goal of this study was to describe the periotics of the odontocetes of the Pacific coast of northern Mexico and develop a taxonomic tool using descriptions of each species. We used a geometric morphometric analysis of 186 periotics housed in local and national osteological collections. Our results show the taxonomic value of periotics and a significant phylogenetic signal associated with this structure. Based on these results we present a descriptive catalog that can be used for identification purposes. En la costa noroeste del Pacífico mexicano, se distribuyen 23 especies y cuatro subespecies de odontocetos pertenecientes a cinco familias (Delphinidae, Physeteridae, Kogiidae, Phocoenidae y Ziphiidae). La alta variabilidad morfológica de estas especies ha sido objeto de diversas investigaciones, varias de las cuales se han centrado en aspectos taxonómicos basados en características craneales. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los perióticos de los odontocetos de la costa noroeste del Pacífico mexicano y elaborar una herramienta taxonómica a través de la descripción de cada especie. Se realizó un análisis de morfometría geométrica empleando 186 perióticos depositados en colecciones osteológicas locales y nacionales. Nuestros resultados enfocados en 17 especies, indicaron que los perióticos son estructuras que presentan valor taxonómico y señal filogenética. Con base en los resultados morfométricos y las observaciones directas, preparamos un catálogo que describe los perióticos de cada especie, el cual se podrá emplear como una herramienta útil para fines de identificación. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basin hydrological and morphometric parameters are elements that must be made on a map with sufficient information. This information collected on-site has been limited by public order problems. Basin circularity index (Ci) is among the morphometric indices, which has not been calculated yet for the basins under study. Basins automatic delimitation carried out from Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has allowed its research and management due to efficiency in data processing, ease, and low cost; in addition, increase images and databases availability. The work aim was to evaluate the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) SRTM proposed methodology in the Corporación Autónoma Regional de las Cuencas de los Ríos Negro y Nare (Cornare) jurisdiction, extracting from it the numerical drainage, in order to delimit basins and sub-basins, as well as calculate indices, such as drainage density (Dd) and Ci. The declivity map showed terrain with very soft to very strong surface relief. Basin's automatic delimitation based on the drainage order ≥6 was the one that came closest to the basin actual characteristics; regarding the sub-basins delimitation, it was the one based on the ≥3 order. Dd and Ci indices indicated that the sub-basins have moderate drainage, runoff level, and infiltration capacity and tend to be more elongated than circular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Latent fingermark age determination is a relatively new subdiscipline of friction ridge pattern analysis that has the potential to ascertain two key pieces of information: the "who" and the "when" from a single evidence item. In this proof‐of‐concept study, the sensitivity and suitability of a series of 3D and 2D chronomorphometrics, ie, quantitative measurement of form as a function of time, are examined under various temperatures (55, 21, 4, and −20°C) at 6 months. 3D imaging with an optical profiler (OP) in tandem with a conventional 2D fingermark enhancing method, ie powdering with titanium dioxide, is the technique selected. From a chronomorphometric perspective, the 3D‐OP detects micrometer variations in surface texture with regard to the heights (Sa and Ra) and volume (Vu) of the ridges, whereas 2D imaging provides information on color contrast (MI and IA), the fingermark visual quality score (QS), and the relative area extension of color‐coded maps of ridge clarity (BlueGreen, BG). Statistical analyses have revealed different degrees of sensitivity of the 2D and 3D metrics for detecting the effect of temperature and time, being 3D the most discriminating. In these tested conditions, warmer temperatures (55 and 21°C) have shown the most impact on ridge degradation with the lowest levels observed at −20°C. The concurrent application of 2D and 3D metrics would be considered the best approach to advance the knowledge on fingermark aging processes and possible mathematical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The defoliation and fruit characteristics of natural Castanea sativa Mill. forests were annually monitored between 2014 and 2016 in İstanbul, Turkey. The soil and forest floor properties were also investigated and evaluated according to the stand development stages. Comparisons were made with ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests; the relationship between fruit yield and the properties of the soil and forest floor were tested with correlation analysis; and allometric regression models were developed for fruit yield with DBH (diameter at breast height) and (DBH)2H. The total mass was 509-652 g/m2, N mass was 7.67-9.70 g/m2 and C mass was between 165.75 g/m2 and 183.28 g/m2 in the forest floor in the development stages. The soil texture was loam-clay loam, soil C concentration was between 0.3% and 1.92%, N concentration was 0.08-0.32%, the EC was very low (33-84 µS/cm), and the pH was acidic (5 pH). The properties of the forest floor and soil were not significantly different from the development stages. The defoliation rates increased significantly every year in each development stage. The fruit yield was between 183.51 kg/ha and 298.27 kg/ha, and fruit was not detected in the smallest development stage (SDF). The fruit yields were quite low in comparison with other natural C. sativa forests. However, in each year in the study period, fruit yields were negatively correlated with mass and C and N content and positively correlated with N concentration in the H layer of the forest floor. There was not a significant difference in fruit yield over the years, and it had a low relation with DBH and (DBH)2H (R2 = 0.34 and R2 = 0.23, respectively). The fruits' characteristics significantly fluctuated over the years. As a result, low fruit yield and low relationships with properties of the forest floor and soil might be attributed to the former coppice management and possible health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geographical Information System (GIS), when applied to active tectonic settings, has been widely used in morphometric analysis as a powerful tool to quantitatively correlate the characteristics of a landform, such as geology, geomorphology, and hydrology characteristics. In this study, GIS is used to study the Krueng Raya watershed, which is comprised of neat-jagged, gentle-steep, and diverse geological features. This study area will be the subject to analyze the watershed and landform characteristics that utilize Digital Elevation Model (DEM) DEMNAS (8m-resolution). Hillshade data extraction from DEMNAS results in low relief mountain (56.11%) and sloping to moderately steep (63.1%), a total subbasins area of 60.3 km², a stream length of 178.66 km and upto-4th-order 294 stream segments of which flow patterns are dendritic, rectangular, and sub-parallel. The geomorphometric variables calculated are areal or basin parameters (drainage density, stream frequency, circularity ratio, and elongation ratio), linear parameters (bifurcation ratio and stream length ratio), and form factor. The outcomes from these parameter calculations are quantitative morphometric showing rough to very rough textures, generally deformed, long sub-basin shape, narrow and elongated basin, and short-moderate frequency segments of stream. These morphometric anomalies are the predominant factors indicating the active tectonics and show geospatial analysis and satellite imagery combined that apply to any kind of drainage basin morphometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed with the aim to study morphometric characterization as well as phylogeny and diversity of the local Surguli goat at their breeding tract district Kohat through mitochondrial DNA region, i.e., Cytochrome C Oxidase Subunit One (CO1) gene. Morphometric data and blood samples were collected from thirty (30) pure goats. Morphometric analysis showed that sex had significant effect ( p  < 0.05) on body weight, body length, hearth girth and horn length while no significant effect ( p  > 0.05) was observed for other characteristics. The results also indicated that age had significant effect ( p  < 0.05) on height at rump, ear length, horn length and tail length while no significant effect ( p  > 0.05) was observed for other characteristics. The phylogenetic analysis through CO1 nucleotide sequences within nucleotide range 1-767 showed nine polymorphic sites segregating into eight haplotypes. The mean intraspecific diversity and mean interspecific diversity were calculated as 0.23 and 2.36%, respectively. Phylogenetic tree revealed that Capra Ibex and native Surguli goat have common ancestors. The morphometric and molecular results obtained from the present study can be exploited as a selection tool for breeding and overall improvement.

INTRODUCTION: The Anterior Cruciate Ligament tends to stabilise the knee in various range of extension and flexion. Precise study of anatomy, attachments and position of bundles is important for successful ACL reconstruction. In our study, we attempt to assess general anatomy of ACL, determine and compare its morphometric data pertaining to length and width and its tibio-femoral foot prints in different gender and secondarily determine changes in the same during ACL dynamics witnessed during knee flexion changes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 19 knees from 10 cadavers were used in the research with mean age of 61±7 years. After dissecting the skin, muscles, patellar and articular capsule were removed and bundle attachments were studied. Thereafter the relative length, width and stiffness of ACL bundles at 0, 90, 140 (maximum) angles of knee flexion were measured along with maximum horizontal and vertical bundle footprints at tibio-femoral attachments were recorded. RESULTS: Mean length and width of insertion of anteromedial (AM) bundle on the tibial surface was 8.8mm and 9.0mm in males and 8.1mm and 8.8mm in females. Furthermore, that of PL bundle was 9.1mm and 7.8mm in males and 8.9mm and 7.1mm in females. CONCLUSION: The anteromedial (AM) bundle and posterolateral (PL) bundle of ACL were found to be most relaxed at full extension and were most taut at maximum flexion of 140°. AM bundle underwent greater stretching and change of length in comparison to the PL bundle, indicating that it is comparatively a more dominant bundle.

Abstract Natural selection and sexual selection are cardinal factors in shaping the body of animals such as scorpions. Scorpio maurus (Scorpiones: Scorpionidae) has a worldwide distribution. Sexual dimorphism has been reported from this species in a study in Egypt. Morphometry is used to determine the sexual dimorphism between the two sexes. In the current study, scorpions were collected from six locations of the southern and northern provinces of Fars, Iran. In this study, 53 morphological characters of 15 specimens of each sex of Scorpio maurus were studied based on statistical analyses; however, dimorphism was only observed in 21 morphological characters, including chelicerae and carapace length, pedipalp characters, width of the second segment of metasoma, telson and pectin length, number of left pectin teeth, and some of the leg's segments. It means that these characters are in the control of sexual and natural selection. This study was performed for the first time on Scorpio maurus species in Iran.

Two sturgeon species, Acipenser ruthenus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Acipenser baerii (Brandt, 1869), inhabit the Irtysh basin. In 2018, we received some “atypical” specimens of sturgeon, which were similar to A. ruthenus but had a number of pronounced external differences. The hybrids A. ruthenus × A. baerii, named “oster”, can sometimes be caught in natural habitats in the Ob and the Yenisei rivers. Despite the development of methods for the genetic identification of sturgeons, the molecular genetic characteristics of the hybrids of A. baerii and A. ruthenus have not been carried out. The purpose of this study is to develop a complex of morphological and genetic characters to identify the hybrid of A. ruthenus and A. baerii from the Irtysh River. We used a complex of morphological and genetic methods to compare the putative hybrids with parental species The putative hybrids were similar to A. ruthenus in the number of dorsal scutes, the number of rays in the dorsal and anal fins, the structure of stamens on the first gill arch, and the presence of fringe on the tendrils. The hybrids were similar to A. baerii in size and weight values, the structure of dorsal scutes, the number of lateral and ventral scutes, and the number of gill rakers on the first gill arch. Genotyping of putative hybrids by using the Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers revealed the presence of sites characteristic of both parental species. The fragment of the control region of mitochondrial DNA in the hybrids matched to that of A. baerii that allowed us to identify females of A. baerii as maternal individuals of the hybrids. Possible causes and factors promoting interspecific hybridization of A. ruthenus and A. baerii were studied. This is the first described fact of the appearance of sturgeon hybrids in the Ob-Irtysh basin. It is necessary to continue monitoring studies to identify the number of these hybrids in the ecological system of the Irtysh River. The data set of morphological characters and genetic methods can be used to identify the hybrids of A. ruthenus and A. baerii.