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Fruit and seed morphometry was studied across 1070 plant species belonging to 140 families from 27 contrasting plant communities. The main objectives were to identify allometric relationships and describe the frequency distributions of the weights and sizes of fruits and seeds across plant species, regardless of any qualitative attribute or community type. The frequency distributions of 12 morphometric variables were then determined. Pearson correlations were used to describe associations between quantitative attributes and estimate the slopes of the lines (allometric coefficients) obtained. In general, small fruits and seeds (<1 cm) prevailed in the sample examined. The frequency distributions of the weight and size parameters of the fruits and seeds were bell‐shaped, with the exception of the number of seeds per fruit, which was skewed to the right. The highest allometric coefficients were found between the dry weights and sizes of the fruits and seeds, suggesting that these traits are mutually supporting. The cost of seed packaging per fruit, or the pericarp/seed ratio, tended to decrease with increasing investment in progeny, and the number of seeds per fruit decreased with an increase in seed weight. The significant associations between the fruit shape indexes and the morphometric attributes show that the shape of fruits is related to their size and weight. The highest allometric coefficients were found between the dry weights and sizes of the fruits and seeds. Fruit and seed size can predict their biomass and vice versa. There is a close relationship between fruit biomass values and their components (seeds and pericarp). Most species invest more biomass in pericarp (protection and dispersal) compared with the investment in progeny (seed per fruit). The sample examined could be influenced taxonomically along with selective pressures that favour the reproductive economy of the species and suggest that morphometric traits have evolved in coordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that Hirshfeld surfaces provide an easy and straightforward way of analysing intermolecular interactions in the crystal environment. The use of atomic Hirshfeld surfaces has also demonstrated that such surfaces carry information related to chemical bonds which allow a deeper evaluation of the structures. Here we briefly summarize the approach of atomic Hirshfeld surfaces while further evaluating the kind of information that can be retrieved from them. We show that the analysis of the metal‐centre Hirshfeld surfaces from structures refined via Hirshfeld Atom Refinement (HAR) allow accurate evaluation of contacts of type M...H, and that such contacts can be related to the overall shape of the surfaces. The compounds analysed were tetraaquabis(3‐carboxypropionato)metal(II), [M(C4H3O4)2(H2O)4], for metal(II)/M = manganese/Mn, cobalt/Co, nickel/Ni and zinc/Zn. We also evaluate the sensitivity of the surfaces by an investigation of seemingly flat surfaces through analysis of the curvature functions in the direction of C—C bonds. The obtained values not only demonstrate variations in curvature but also show a correlation with the hybridization of the C atoms involved in the bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gully erosion is a serious environmental threat, compromising soil health, damaging agricultural lands, and destroying vital infrastructure. Pinpointing regions prone to gully erosion demands careful selection of an appropriate machine learning algorithm. This choice is crucial, as the complex interplay of various environmental factors contributing to gully formation requires a nuanced analytical approach. To develop the most accurate Gully Erosion Susceptibility Map (GESM) for India's Raiboni River basin, researchers harnessed the power of two cutting-edge machine learning algorithm: Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Random Forest (RF). For a comprehensive analysis, this study integrated 24 potential control factors. We meticulously investigated a dataset of 200 samples, ensuring an even balance between non-gullied and gullied locations. To assess multicollinearity among the 24 variables, we employed two techniques: the Information Gain Ratio (IGR) test and Variance Inflation Factors (VIF). Elevation, land use, river proximity, and rainfall most influenced the basin's GESM. Rigorous tests validated XGBoost and RF model performance. XGBoost surpassed RF (ROC 86% vs. 83.1%). Quantile classification yielded a GESM with five levels: very high to very low. Our findings reveal that roughly 12% of the basin area is severely affected by gully erosion. These findings underscore the critical need for targeted interventions in these highly susceptible areas. Furthermore, our analysis of gully characteristics unveiled a predominance of V-shaped gullies, likely in an active developmental stage, supported by an average Shape Index (SI) value of 0.26 and a mean Erosivness Index (EI) of 0.33. This research demonstrates the potential of machine learning to pinpoint areas susceptible to gully erosion. By providing these valuable insights, policymakers can make informed decisions regarding sustainable land management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Rivers are very sensitive to changes in discharge and sediment load as well as tectonic forces. Many of the changes that occur over time in the morphology of the channel can be related to the mentioned changes. Morphometric analysis is the first step understanding the basin dynamic activity. Combined variables and indicators can be effective in identifying the complications and surface landform of river channels and show their temporal and spatial changes. In addition, in addition, geomorphological indices (Morphotectonic indices) are considered to be very useful methods in evaluating and recognizing tectonic activities and can provide quantitative results and quantitative description of morphometric features in The basin scale can be used to explain the structural controls, geological history and geomorphology and processes of its drainage network. In addition, the morphometric parameters of the basin play an important role in the hydrological processes governing the basin because it largely determines their hydrological response. Materials and Methods Zanjanrud is the main river basin completely limited to the area of Zanjan province. The river originates from the heights of Soltanieh in the east and flows to the northwest and finally in the west of Rajein village it joins Qizil-Uzen. Regard to the objectives of the research, first, using the DEM of the basin (ASTER-DEM: 30m), the extractable sub-basins was identified in the WMS software environment. In this step the number of 107 sub-basins could be separated, of which 52 sub-basins were selected based on the minimum area of approx. 20 Km2 for the evaluation and analysis of shape indices and tectonic. These sub-basins were named according to the outstanding settlement inside them. After determining the shape indices and estimating and comparing the state of neotectonic of the sub-basins, a field survey was conducted to closely examine and validate the findings. Results and Discussion At the first, the shape of the studied sub-basins was quantified using different indices. Then, the morphology of the sub-basins was evaluated using different shape indices and then the different indices were checked in terms of correlation in terms of the results related to tectonic activity. Finally, the neotectonic of the sub-basins has been estimated using the results of the shape indices and the data related to the faults. The results show that the Kazbar sub-basin is most elongated sub-basin, which together with 7 sub-basins with very high elongation rate are located in the western half of the Zanjanrud basin. The frequency of sub-basins with the shape index 2 to 3 is in the SE half of the basin. Out of the 8 sub-basins with shape index less than 2 in the eastern half of Zanjanrud basin, 1 sub-basin is located in the northern part and 7 sub-basins are located in the southern part of the basin, which can be seen in the SE half. The upstream sub-basin is not included in the classification due to the unusual shape that cannot be compared with other sub-basins. Conclusion The results of classification of the indices shows that the accumulation of sub-basins with high rate of elongation and as a result with high neotectonic activity is in the NW part of Zanjanrud basin and especially in the northern side of this part. Out of the 51 sub-basins, the concentration of 8 sub-basins with mean index of higher than 5 and a total of 16 sub-basins with an average shape index higher than 3.5, indicates the highest level of neotectonic mobility in this part of the basin. This finding is consistent with the region's latest map of active faults, in which the frequency of faults (including the Sohrein fault, the Qaracherian fault and the Kenavand fault) is in the NW part of the basin. According to the study results of the shape of the sub-basins, the SW side of the Zanjanrud basin has an average level of neotectonic activity. This finding, along with the results related to the NW part, can strengthen the hypothesis that the western half of the basin is more active than its eastern half. The neotectonic mobility in SE side of the basin is moderate and is higher than NE part of the basin. As previous studies have shown, many faults are involved in the morphology of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To accurately predict the behavior and mechanical damage of sheet metal during hot forming process, the use of advanced thermomechanical modeling and precise identification of the constitutive parameter are required. This paper proposes a novel identification approach for constitutive parameters that relies on multiple regression and the shape index of experimental data curves. This approach is used to determine the material constants associated with the Johnson-Cook material and failure models for steel and aluminum sheets. Therefore, the obtained results approve the applicability and high accuracy of the identification procedure for the damage and the constitutive parameters of sheet metal, which allows for substantial time savings. Furthermore, to evaluate the formability of sheet metal, experimental forming tests at various temperatures were conducted. The identification process enhances the prediction of forming results, as shown by the fact that the numerical simulation of Erichsen and square die hydroforming tests using identified Johnson-Cook parameters agreed with the results of these tests carried out at different forming conditions. Moreover, the thickness measurement shows the ability of the developed model to properly predict the thickness of deformed shapes.

Mass, size, and shape attributes are important for the design of planters, breeding studies, and quality assessment. In recent years, machinery design and system development studies have taken these factors into consideration. The aim of this study is to explore classification models for four pumpkin seed varieties according to their physical characteristics by machine learning. Binary classification is important because it ensures that the quality characteristics of the seeds are very similar to each other. The pumpkin seed varieties of Develi, Sena Hanım, Türkmen, and Mertbey were discriminated in pairs. Five machine learning algorithms (Naïve Bayes, NB; support vector machine, SVM; random forest, RF; multilayer perceptron, MLP; and kNN, k-nearest neighbors) were applied to assess the classification performance. In all pairs, the pumpkin seed varieties of Develi and Mertbey were discriminated with the highest accuracies of 85.00% for the MLP model and 84.50% for the SVM model and 83.50% for the RF. In the MLP algorithm, TP rate reached to 0.790 for Develi and 0.910 for Mertbey, Precision to 0.898 for Develi and 0.813 for Mertbey, F-measure to 0.840 for Develi and 0.858 for Mertbey, PRC area to 0.894 for Develi and 0.896 for Mertbey, and ROC area to 0.907 for both varieties. Variety of pairs was followed by Sena Hanım and Türkmen (84.50%, MLP) and Türkmen and Mertbey (82.50%, SVM). For the selected input attributes, the highest mass (0.23 g), length (22.08 for Mertbey, 21.43 for Sena Hanım), and geometric mean diameter (8.79 mm) values were obtained from Sena Hanım variety, while shape index (3.40) from Mertbey variety. Multivariate statistical results showed that differences in attributes were significant (p < 0.01). Wilks' lambda statistics found that the portion of the unexplained difference between groups was 46.60%. Develi and Sena Hanım varieties with the lowest Mahalanobis distance values had similar characteristics. Present results revealed that SVM and MLP may be used effectively and objectively for the classification of pumpkin seed varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) face recognition approach for depth data captured by Kinect based on a combination of speeded up robust features (SURF) and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithms. First, the shape index maps of the preprocessed 3D faces of the training gallery are computed, then the SURF feature vectors are extracted and used to form the dictionary. In the recognition process, we propose an improved KNN classifier to find the best match. The evaluation was performed using CurtinFaces and KinectFaceDB data sets, achieving rank-1 recognition rates of 96.78% and 94.23%, respectively, when using two samples per person for training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Agriculture & Wildlife Science is the property of International Journal of Agriculture & Wildlife Science 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.)

• Certain anatomic variations such as body mass index (BMI), wrist ratio (WR), wrist to palm ratio (WPR), shape index (SI) may be accounted for as CTS risk factors. • BMI & WPR was significantly higher in patients with CTS than controls for both genders. • WR was significantly higher in both CTS males and females when compared to the healthy male and female controls. • No significant difference was found in the SI between CTS male patients and control male groups. Systematic literature review of case-controlled studies. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common tubular neuropathies where certain anatomical variations may be accounted for as risk factors for CTS, including body mass index (BMI), wrist ratio (WR), wrist to palm ratio (WPR), shape index (SI), and digit length. To assess case-control studies examining the association between specific anatomical variations of the wrist as risk factors for developing CTS and whether this effect is the same for both genders. The literature search was conducted between February-June 2020 through PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL Plus and PEDro. The literature search yielded 149 potential publications, fifteen of which were filtered in accordance with eligibility criteria. The methodological quality was assessed by using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Form for Case-Control Studies (NOS). The total number of subjects included in this review was n=4299. The largest sample was n=1117 participants and the smallest n=54. All studies included patients who had a clinical diagnosis of CTS confirmed with nerve conduction studies and or ultrasonography. CTS was significantly higher in patients with higher BMI, WR, WPR compared to control groups. BMI and WR were the only indicators that can be considered as strong risk factors. Discussion: Despite the general patterns on the association of BMI, WPR, WR and SI as risk factors for the development of CTS, there were exceptions to the accepted results and conclusions. Conclusion: Clinicians are recommended to conduct more research to confirm anthropometric measurements as risk factors for the development of CTS, mainly SI and WPR. When determining the cut-off values for BMI and WR, it is recommended to take into account additional risk factors such as occupation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans are known to have significant and consistent differences in thickness throughout the cortex, with thick outer gyral folds and thin inner sulcal folds. Our previous work has suggested a mechanical basis for this thickness pattern, with the forces generated during cortical folding leading to thick gyri and thin sulci, and shown that cortical thickness varies along a gyral–sulcal spectrum in humans. While other primate species are expected to exhibit similar patterns of cortical thickness, it is currently unknown how these patterns scale across different sizes, forms, and foldedness. Among primates, brains vary enormously from roughly the size of a grape to the size of a grapefruit, and from nearly smooth to dramatically folded; of these, human brains are the largest and most folded. These variations in size and form make comparative neuroanatomy a rich resource for investigating common trends that transcend differences between species. In this study, we examine 12 primate species in order to cover a wide range of sizes and forms, and investigate the scaling of their cortical thickness relative to the surface geometry. The 12 species were selected due to the public availability of either reconstructed surfaces and/or population templates. After obtaining or reconstructing 3D surfaces from publicly available neuroimaging data, we used our surface-based computational pipeline (https://github.com/mholla/curveball) to analyze patterns of cortical thickness and folding with respect to size (total surface area), geometry (i.e. curvature, shape, and sulcal depth), and foldedness (gyrification). In all 12 species, we found consistent cortical thickness variations along a gyral–sulcal spectrum, with convex shapes thicker than concave shapes and saddle shapes in between. Furthermore, we saw an increasing thickness difference between gyri and sulci as brain size increases. Our results suggest a systematic folding mechanism relating local cortical thickness to geometry. Finally, all of our reconstructed surfaces and morphometry data are available for future research in comparative neuroanatomy.

This study was carried out to determine the effects of storage duration and season on egg quality parameters of laying chickens. A total of 420 eggs were collected from ISA brown laying hens raised in deep litter system, over a period of 9 months (from August to May) and examined for their external and internal qualities. The egg quality parameters were analyzed across weeks of storage (2, 4, 6...12) in the wet and dry seasons. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) in a 2×6 factorial involving two seasons and six storage periods. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of variance using a Statistical Analysis Software (SAS), significant means separated with Duncan's Multiple Range Tests. The results obtained showed differences (P<0.05) in egg weight with the highest (58.73 g) value recorded at Week 2 and the lowest (46.88 g) at Week 8. Significant (P<0.05) differences were also observed in Haugh unit which showed the lowest (30.33 %) value at week 10. Most of the egg parameters had better values when fresh up to week 6. Results showing the effect of seasons on egg quality parameters had higher values (P<0.05) in the wet season across all parameters except in albumen height and yolk length. Differences observed in yolk color (2.53), shell weight (6.69 g), and Haugh unit (40.16 %) showed a decrease in the dry season than in wet season (4.74, 8.04 g, and 57.25 %, respectively). It was concluded that egg quality decreased with increase in storage time. Eggs collected and stored during the wet season had better quality parameters. It is therefore recommended, that eggs can be stored in the Guinea savannah zones for up to 6 weeks without adversely affecting both the internal and external qualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title Schiff base compound, C20H20N2O4, synthesized by the condensation reaction of methyl 3-amino-4-methylbenzoat and glyoxal in ethanol, crystallizes in the the monoclinic space group P21/n. The molecule is Z-shaped with the C—N—C—C torsion angle being 47.58 (18)°. In the crystal, pairs of molecules are linked via C—H...N hydrogen bonds, forming centrosymetric dimers with an R22(8) ring motif; this connectivity leads to the formation of columns running along the a-axis direction. Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint plots were used to explore the intermolecular interactions and revealed that the most significant contributions to the crystal packing are from H...H (49.4%), H...O/O...H (19.0%) and H...C/C...H (17.5%) contacts. Energy frameworks were constructed through different intermolecular interaction energies to investigate the stability of the compound. The net interaction energies for the title compound were found to be electrostatic (Eele = −48.4 kJ mol−1), polarization (Epol = −9.7 kJ mol−1), dispersion (Edis = −186.9 kJ mol−1) and repulsion (Erep = 94.9 kJ mol−1) with a total interaction energy, Etot, of −162.4 kJ mol−1.

The aim of this study was to determine the optimum turning frequency for increasing the hatchability results in hatching eggs with abnormal shape index. For this purpose, 4050 hatching eggs obtained from 56 weeks old ATAK-S hybrid hens were used. Shape index was divided into 3 groups as 71 and smaller, 72 – 76, 77 and higher. The research was conducted according to a completely randomized factorial experimental design. The hatching eggs were incubated with turning frequency of 30, 60 and 120 minutes. In the present study, fertility rate, hatchability, hatch of fertile, early, middle, late embryonic mortality, discard chick rate, chick quality, malformation and malposition rates were determined. The turning frequency was found to have a significant effect on hatch of fertile eggs and late embryonic mortality. It was found that turning frequency and shape index had no significant effect on the hatching results regarding discarded chicks, early embryonic mortality, malposition, malformation rate, and chick quality. Interaction between egg shape index and turning frequency did not influence hatching traits and chick quality. It was determined that there was no interaction effect between turning frequency and shape index on all the characteristics discussed. According to the results obtained from the research, it was observed that the 30 and 120 minute turning frequency of hatching eggs with different shape indexes had a negative effect on the hatchability of fertile eggs and late embryo mortality. It was concluded that even if the shape index of the hatching eggs were different, the optimum turning frequency should be every 60 minutes.

Major purpose of this study was to investigate the egg quality of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) reared in different type cages. Two different cages, one for egg laying and one for breeding birds were used. Some internal and external quality parameters related to the quails were investigated. Among those, shape index, albumen index, haugh unit and yolk index were 79.18-78.67 %, 7.82-8.12 %, 86.64-86.52, 42.80-40.17 % for egg laying and breeding bird cages, respectively. Rigid albumin length and shell weight of eggs obtained from breeding type bird cage were found higher than those obtained from egg laying type cage. The differences in rigid albumin length and shell weight values between the two cage types were statistically significant (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biological trial was conducted to study the effect of phytase supplementation on egg production, shape index, and bone mineralization traits in Swarnadhara breeders reared from 29 to 48 weeks at the Department of Poultry Science, Veterinary College, Hebbal, Bengaluru. The trial had a total of 450 birds with 5 treatments and three replicates per treatment, each having 30 birds (90 birds per treatment). The control diet (T1) was formulated according to ICAR (2013) nutrient requirements and the groups T2 to T5 were formulated with changed non-phytate phosphorus levels so as to contain 0.12% in T2, 0.18% in T3, 0.12% NPP with 500 IU/kg phytase in T4 and 0.18% NPP with 500 IU/kg phytase in T5. Hen-housed egg production (phases I, II and V), shape index, bone weight, bone ash, and bone calcium were not significantly (P>0.05) affected by phytase supplementation. However, the bone phosphorus content was significantly (P<0.05) improved in phytase supplemented group compared to the control. An NPP level of 0.12% with phytase is optimum for Swarnadhara breeders to maintain egg production, egg quality, and bone mineralization. There was no additional advantage, however, of increasing the NPP concentration above 0.12% with phytase or adding phytase to the diet containing 0.18 % NPP in Swarnadhara breeders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agriculture & Nature / Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tarım & Doğa Dergisi is the property of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam Universitesi 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.)

Left ventricular remodeling (LVR) refers to the changes in the size, shape, and function of the left ventricle, influenced by mechanical, neurohormonal, and genetic factors. These changes are directly linked to an increased risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs). Various parameters are used to assess cardiac geometry across different imaging modalities, with echocardiography being the most commonly employed technique for measuring left ventricular (LV) geometry. However, many echocardiographic evaluations of geometric changes primarily rely on two-dimensional (2D) methods, which overlook the true three-dimensional (3D) characteristics of the LV. While cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is considered the gold standard for assessing LV volume, it has limitations, including accessibility issues, challenges in patients with cardiac devices, and longer examination times compared to standard echocardiography. In nuclear medicine, LV geometry can be analyzed using the shape index (SI) and eccentricity index (EI), which measure the sphericity and elongation of the left ventricle. Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using SPECT or PET is inherently a 3D technique, making it particularly effective for accurately and consistently assessing LV size and shape parameters. In this context, LV metrics such as EI and SI can significantly enhance the range of quantitative assessments available through nuclear cardiology techniques, with particular value in identifying early LV remodeling in specific patient groups. This article explores the diagnostic significance of left ventricular geometric indices through various diagnostic methods, highlighting the important role of nuclear cardiology., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Here, the influence of grinding media with different shapes on the flotation performance of spodumene and its potential mechanism from microscale insights was investigated using a single mineral flotation experiment, X-ray diffraction (XRD) test, scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS), atomic force microscope (AFM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The flotation data indicated that under anionic/cationic (sodium oleate (NaOL)/DDA) collectors system, the rod milled spodumene has a higher floatability than ball milled ones. XRD results confirmed that rod medium makes spodumene exposed more {110} and {100} planes, while ball medium makes spodumene exposed more {010} planes. The typical anisotropic surface of spodumene makes the surface of rod milled spodumene possess more Al sites, further confirmed by SEM-EDS and XPS results. Additionally, it was found that the rod milled spodumene presents a larger value of elongation and flatness, which are parameters closely related to bubble adhesion. AFM analysis indicated that rod milled products have a rougher surface, while ball milled products have a smoother surface. Consequently, the rod medium enhanced the adsorption of NaOL/DDA on the spodumene surfaces. This work provides theoretical guidance for optimizing the separation of spodumene from the perspective of grinding.

ABSTRACT: The profitability of pheasants breeding is influenced by many factors, but eggs quality is considered as the backbone for successful pheasant breeding. The objective of this study was to determine and compare various quality characteristics (physical, morphological, and mechanical) of eggs from three pheasant subspecies: common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus colchicus), Mongolian pheasant (Phasianus colchicus mongolicus), and black pheasant (Phasianus colchicus vs. tenebrosus). A total sample of 180 eggs (60 eggs of each pheasant subspecies) was collected from pheasant hens kept in aviaries in their first year of production (43–47 wk of age). The average weight and volume of eggs from common pheasants was significantly lower (P ˂ 0.05) than those from Mongolian and black pheasants. No significant differences between three pheasant subspecies were observed in albumen and yolk weight and percentage, while egg shell weight and percentage were significantly higher (P < 0.01) at eggs from black pheasants. In comparison to eggs from Mongolian and common pheasants, eggs from black pheasants had the thickest shell and the highest shell strength and required highest force to egg breaking. The values of breaking force and other mechanical characteristics depend on the direction of the loading force during egg compression. The data obtained by evaluating certain characteristics of egg quality can be useful to breeders when choosing a pheasant subspecies, as well as for choosing quality eggs for hatching and their storage.

The irregular shape of the sample can significantly affect the compression process. Establishing a numerical model of specimens based on real meso-structure is challenging because of the irregularity and the heterogeneity. This paper aimed to establish the three-dimensional numerical model based on real meso-structure using Rock Failure Process Analysis. We simulated the mechanical properties and deformation failure law of sandstone particles with different shapes under uniaxial compression. The effects of different shapes and heterogeneity on the mechanical behavior and fracture process of sandstone were studied. Furthermore, we discussed strength characteristics and failure modes of different particle shapes. Our results show that the stress–strain curve of the specimens has brittleness-ductility under uniaxial compression. Meanwhile, as stress increases, tensile failure accumulates in rocks, resulting in the macroscopic shear crack zone. The peak strength of sandstone specimens with different shapes decreases by increasing the k value. Moreover, the specimen fracture showed an obvious shape effect, and the heterogeneity in the breaking process determines the crack propagation path. The current findings may play an important role in the crushing method and energy-saving of rock mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with gravity data, gravity gradient data can reflect the structural features of density anomalies with higher sensitivity and resolution. Gravity gradient inversion is a common method for interpreting gravity gradient data, but the non-uniqueness of gravity gradient inversion solutions makes it difficult to quickly determine the effectiveness and reliability of the inversion results. To solve this problem, this paper combines the gravity gradient inversion and gravity gradient curvature methods and applies them to different sets of synthetic models. The gravity gradient inversion results are useful primarily for determining the spatial distributions and physical properties of density anomalies, while the gravity gradient curvature results have a prominent advantage in judging the geometric features of the density anomalies. In addition, one form of gravity gradient curvature, the contour lines of the shape index, can be compared with the top view of the inversion results to rapidly confirm the distribution of density anomalies, which is especially valuable for unexplored regions. On the basis of the respective advantages and features of these two methods, the gravity gradient curvature can be used as an important criterion to judge the results of gravity gradient inversion. The two methods are then combined to analyse airborne gravity gradient data measured in the field at the Kauring Test Site in Australia. Compared with the findings of previous gravity inversion research, this study shows that several anomalous blocks exist in the vicinity of the central anomalies, thereby demonstrating that the combination of these two methods is effective and reliable in identifying density anomalies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was done in the hatchery unit/ animal production department/ directorate of agricultural research in Sulaimani province from 28 March - 7 May 2022. Three hundred (300) eggs were used to study the effect of egg shape parameters on the characteristics of hatched chicks. Immediately after collecting the eggs, the eggs were weighted by using electronic balance (0.01 g) sensitive, and the length and Breadth for each egg was measured by using digital caliper vernier with (0.01 mm) sensitive. Our result indicates that the chick color was affected by the egg weight and the egg breadth (P<0.05) but another studied traits was not significantly affected on the characteristics of hatched chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of housing system on the physical, morphological, and mechanical properties of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) eggs. A total of 240 eggs were collected from Japanese quails kept in two different housing systems: cage housing and aviary housing system (120 eggs from each housing system). Eggs from cage housing system were significantly (P

In the conditions of the Astrakhan region there have been studied onion accessions of various ecological and geographical origin from the world collection of the Federal Research Center N. I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources. The aim was to search and isolate sources and donors of agronomic traits for breeding work. Over three years of study (2017-2019), 117 onion samples were evaluated, of which 14 most promising accessions were identified based on the results of phenological, morphological and biometric observations and counts. The most productive samples with the yield from 52.3 to 64.1 t/ha in the conditions of the light-brown soils from Australia (Selfed), Hungary (Zillani), USA (Red Mom), Canada (Nothern) have been selected. Of these, the most adaptive to the conditions of the arid zone are Nothern, Selfed, Zillani, Red Mom (adaptability coefficient 1.19...1.46). According to the index form (1.0), the following specimens were identified: Vertus (Denmark), Southport (Canada), Zillani (Hungary), Jetset (Netherlands), Encore (USA), Kyrmyz (Abkhazia). Varieties with the complex of agronomictraits are the most valuable source material for onion breeding in the arid zone of light-brown soils of the Astrakhan region: Selfed (Australia), Zillani (Hungary), Red Mom (USA), Nothern (Canada).

Dielectrophoresis has been tried to be applied to cell sorting technology in previous studies. In the present study, the movement of mouse myoblast cells flowing through the perpendicular electric field in a micro- channel has been analyzed in vitro. A pair of asymmetric surface electrodes of titanium was manufactured by the photolithography technique: a triangular electrode with the tip angle of 0.35 rad, and a rectangular electrode with the flat edge as the reference. The cyclic alternating electric current of the square wave with the period of 0.3 μs was introduced between the surface electrodes to induce the asymmetric electric field perpendicular to the main flow direction. The suspension of cells (C2C12: mouse myoblast cell line) was injected into the flow channel, and the flow rate was controlled by the pressure head between the inlet and outlet. The velocity of each cell related to the shape and alignment is measured. Experimental results show that the velocity change near the tip of the electrode is lower for a highly elongated cell. The maximum movement perpendicular to the main flow direction occurs when the major axis is perpendicular to the main flow direction.

In this study, we investigated whether the mathematical formulas, which generally reveal the external quality characteristics of living organisms, yield the correct results in goose eggs. For this purpose, three genotypes and 555 eggs were studied that were grouped into Native (n = 356), Chinese (n = 163) and Linda (n = 36), which were raised in Aksaray province. The averages in the Native, Chinese and Linda geese were 5.43, 5.38 and 5.7 cm, respectively, in breadth; were 8.12, 8.03 and 8.67 cm in length, respectively; the shape index was 66.9, 67.2 and 66.7 cm, respectively; the egg volume was 142.8, 138.8 and 172.5 cm3, respectively; the egg surface area was 136.9, 134.3 and 155.4 cm2, respectively; the egg weight was 159.1, 154.5 and 192.3 g, respectively; the specific gravity of the eggs was 1.11, 1.11 and 1.12 g/cm3, respectively; the shell thickness was 0.510, 0.504 and 0.555 mm, respectively; the shell weight was 14.79, 14.32 and 18.26 g, respectively; the shell volume was 70.06, 67.82 and 86.41 cm3, respectively; the shell specific gravity was 2.111 3, 2.111 0 and 2.113 5 g/cm3, respectively; and the shell ratio was 9.29, 9.26 and 9.49 g, respectively. The number of pores is calculated as 14 828, 14 502 and 17 152, respectively. Although the formulas used give compatible results, there is a need for formulas that calculate closer to the truth rather than formulas that calculate the egg weight and egg shell weight.

This study introduced an automated approach employing 3D scanner for quick and precise aggregates shape analysis. Recognizing existing gaps, there is still an industry demand to propose a standardized method for measuring material characteristics using 3D scanning. By addressing the limitations of previous studies, this research considered unexplored aspects of 3D scanning to improve the speed and efficiency of that. This research comprehensively examined nearly 1500 aggregates from five natural sources and five types of slag. Four statistical tests named Mann-Whitney U, Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Bootstrap, and Permutation were utilized to determine the optimal sample size for scanning. The findings suggest that scanning just 100 aggregates from each source is sufficient to be a small representative of the whole dataset and it can significantly reduce resource use while maintaining data integrity. As a practical insight, it has tried to scan a batch of 25 aggregates simultaneously in one session which could improve efficiency of scanning by reducing the processing time to just 0.6 min per particle. In MATLAB® software, some common bounding volume techniques such as Axis-Aligned, Oriented, Ellipsoid, and Sphere Bounding Box were used to analyze morphological properties. The findings showed that the aggregates sourced from Basalt, Moraine, and most of slags have more cubical shapes, while Porphyrit and Diabase aggregates are more elongated, flaky, and angular. This study also provided a comparative study of how various techniques for stone crushing affect the morphology of aggregates. The results indicate that a combination of jaw, cone, and horizontal impact crusher produces more spherical and cubical aggregates. Replacing of the cone crusher with a gyratory crusher in the same combination can improve elongation and sphericity slightly but may increase flaky particles. These insights offer valuable guidelines for future research and practical applications in construction material optimization. • Developing an automated approach for obtaining the 2D/3D shape index of aggregates. • Applying Bounding Volume Techniques in MATLAB to analyze morphological properties. • Influence of the source of aggregates on the shape properties of particles. • Effects of the employed crushing methods on the shape index of aggregates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Land-use change emerges as a fundamental factor in the increase in zoonotic diseases, affecting both ecosystems and human populations. The edge effect between forested areas and their surrounding environments, modifies species distribution, and consequently the dynamics zoonotic wildlife. Patches with high perimeter-to-area ratios may experience a more pronounced edge effect, justifying the relevance of studying patch shape in a disease dynamics. In addition, competition between species, especially between those that act as reservoirs and those that do not, plays a crucial role in eco-epidemiological dynamics. In this context, our study addresses competition dynamics between two species employ the Lotka–Volterra model. We introduce an internal classification in the host species with two compartments, susceptible and infected, and model the disease transmission rate using a function linked to parameters associated with the edge effect. Specifically, the transmission rate differentiates interactions between susceptible and infected individuals in the core area and the edge of the patch, being a function dependent on the shape index of the patch, and is of the edge effect and host density. We predicted that, although competition can decrease the spread of the disease among hosts, the edge effect can paradoxically increase it. • Edge effects alter zoonotic disease dynamics. • The basic reproductive number is key to understanding eco-epidemiological dynamics. • Edge effects can amplify disease dynamics, even with intra-specific competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of left ventricular (LV) shape parameters measured by gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in super-responders enrolled in the VISION-CRT trial. Methods: One hundred and ninety-nine patients who met standard criteria for CRT from multiple centers were enrolled in this study. End-systolic eccentricity (ESE) and end-diastolic eccentricity (EDE) were measures of LV shape. Super-responders were the patients who had a relative increase in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 15%. Results: Complete data were obtained in 165 patients, and 43.6% of them were classified as super-responders. ESE was an independent predictor of CRT super-responders in univariate (OR 12.59, 95% CI 1.56–101.35, P =.017) and multivariate analysis (OR 35.71, 95% CI 1.66–766.03, P =.006). ESE had an incremental value over significant clinical and SPECT imaging variables, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blocker, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, LVEF, end-diastolic volume index, and scar burden (AUC 0.82 vs. 0.80, sensitivity 0.68 vs. 0.65, specificity 0.82 vs. 0.78). Conclusions: LV shape parameters derived from gated SPECT MPI have the promise to improve the prediction of the super-response to CRT. Moreover, ESE provides incremental value over existing clinical and nuclear imaging variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers certain aspects of the morphology and biology of Trichinella, and the ecology and epizootology of trichinellosis in the Voronezh State Nature Reserve and its adjacent areas (Black Soil Region of Russia). Original data were collected during 30 years (1990–2019) from potential hosts of Trichinella, mainly carnivorous mammals. During this period, more than 200 specimens of wild and domestic carnivores of three families (Canidae, Mustelidae, Felidae) were studied. Six species of wild carnivores (Canis lupus, Vulpes vulpes, Nyctereutes procyonoides, Meles meles, Martes martes, and M. foina) were obligatory hosts. In addition, Trichinella was found in Erinaceus concolor and two species of domestic carnivores (Canis lupus familiaris and Felis catus). The highest prevalence of infection was observed in Vulpes vulpes, Nyctereutes procyonoides, Meles meles, and Martes martes (35.7–70.0%). These hosts play a leading role in the natural trichinellosis transmission. The carnivores can be divided into two groups according to the intensity of infection by Trichinella larvae per gram of muscles (lpg). The first group includes native carnivore species (Vulpes vulpes, Canis lupus, Meles meles, Martes martes, and M. foina), with an average of 10 lpg. The second group includes introduced species (Nyctereutes procyonoides) and invasive species (immigrants) from anthropogenic areas (Felis catus), with an average of 700 lpg. Due to its high pathogenicity, Trichinella can be considered as a significant factor in regulating the number of alien carnivorous species. Trichinella is also characterised by aggregated distribution in the muscles. In the Voronezh State Nature Reserve, the highest lpg values were observed in the muscles of the front and rear limbs of the carnivores. Over 50% of the local hemipopulation of Trichinella is concentrated in these muscle types. Based on the assessment of the morphological features of the Trichinella capsules and larvae from carnivores, two clusters of T. nativa hosts were identified. These clusters comprise carnivorous species that have closer trophic relationships. The variability of quantitative and qualitative parameters in the hosts indirectly reflects the specifics of the relationships in the host-parasite system and shows nutritional preferences of the studied carnivores. In the Voronezh State Nature Reserve and its adjacent areas, Vulpes vulpes is the main link in the stable transmission of trichinellosis. Vulpes vulpes has high rates of infection intensity (35.7%) and large hemipopulations of Trichinella larvae (3.3 million specimens). Vulpes vulpes is the most abundant carnivorous species in the Voronezh State Nature Reserve and the most common hunting prey. So it can be used for monitoring the trichinellosis in European Russia. In the Voronezh State Nature Reserve, invertebrate animals can also contribute to the trichinellosis transmission. Carabid beetles (Carabidae) were registered as the disseminators of T. nativa. At present, in the Voronezh State Nature Reserve and in its adjacent areas, trichinellosis is transmitted by wild carnivores. The dominant position in the parasitic system of T. nativa is occupied by Vulpes vulpes. The other Carnivora species are subdominant. The specifics of the trichinellosis transmission and Trichinella transmission factors depend on the trophic relationships between animal hosts. The main forms of trophic relationships between carnivores are predation, necrophagy and cannibalism. Erinaceus concolor and insects (Carabidae) may also contribute to the preservation and dissemination of Trichinella.

Urban–rural integrated development is the priority task of China due to the wide development gap between cities and villages caused by the most rapid economic growth in history. In the province–city–town–village administrative system of China, town, as the smallest urban form, is the social, economic, and cultural center of a rural area and becomes the key to many development problems. An improved township enhances living standards and creates numerous jobs in rural areas, and it will provide opportunities for urban–rural sustainable integration. This paper introduces three typical rural forms in Nantong and demonstrates the objective fact that rural form is an important manifestation of residents’ living habits, historical context, and the regional characteristics of rural areas. Then, this study aims to find the close inner relationship between rural form and town development through a comparative study of morphological indicators. Therefore, on the basis of full understanding of rural forms, this study proposes that town development from the perspective of serving the countryside, improving the quality of life of rural residents, and protecting the rural landscape texture with regional characteristics is the development mode conforming to the spirit of sustainable development.

Cortical thickness varies throughout the cortex in a systematic way. However, it is challenging to investigate the patterns of cortical thickness due to the intricate geometry of the cortex. The cortex has a folded nature both in radial and tangential directions which forms not only gyri and sulci but also tangential folds and intersections. In this article, cortical curvature and depth are used to characterize the spatial distribution of the cortical thickness with much higher resolution than conventional regional atlases. To do this, a computational pipeline was developed that is capable of calculating a variety of quantitative measures such as surface area, cortical thickness, curvature (mean curvature, Gaussian curvature, shape index, intrinsic curvature index, and folding index), and sulcal depth. By analyzing 501 neurotypical adult human subjects from the ABIDE‐I dataset, we show that cortex has a very organized structure and cortical thickness is strongly correlated with local shape. Our results indicate that cortical thickness consistently increases along the gyral–sulcal spectrum from concave to convex shape, encompassing the saddle shape along the way. Additionally, tangential folds influence cortical thickness in a similar way as gyral and sulcal folds; outer folds are consistently thicker than inner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The title Schiff base compound, C20H20N2O4, synthesized by the condensation reaction of methyl 3-amino-4-methyl­benzoat and glyoxal in ethanol, crystallizes in the the monoclinic space group P21/n. The mol­ecule is Z-shaped with the C—N—C—C torsion angle being 47.58 (18)°. In the crystal, pairs of mol­ecules are linked via C—HN hydrogen bonds, forming centrosymetric dimers with an R2²(8) ring motif; this connectivity leads to the formation of columns running along the a-axis direction. Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint plots were used to explore the inter­molecular inter­actions and revealed that the most significant contributions to the crystal packing are from HH (49.4%), HO/OH (19.0%) and HC/CH (17.5%) contacts. Energy frameworks were constructed through different inter­molecular inter­action energies to investigate the stability of the compound. The net inter­action energies for the title compound were found to be electrostatic (Eele = −48.4 kJ mol−1), polarization (Epol = −9.7 kJ mol−1), dispersion (Edis = −186.9 kJ mol−1) and repulsion (Erep = 94.9 kJ mol−1) with a total inter­action energy, Etot, of −162.4 kJ mol−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the optimum turning frequency for increasing the hatchability results in hatching eggs with abnormal shape index. For this purpose, 4050 hatching eggs obtained from 56 weeks old ATAK-S hybrid hens were used. Shape index was divided into 3 groups as 71 and smaller, 72 - 76, 77 and higher. The research was conducted according to a completely randomized factorial experimental design. The hatching eggs were incubated with turning frequency of 30, 60 and 120 minutes. In the present study, fertility rate, hatchability, hatch of fertile, early, middle, late embryonic mortality, discard chick rate, chick quality, malformation and malposition rates were determined. The turning frequency was found to have a significant effect on hatch of fertile eggs and late embryonic mortality. It was found that turning frequency and shape index had no significant effect on the hatching results regarding discarded chicks, early embryonic mortality, malposition, malformation rate, and chick quality. Interaction between egg shape index and turning frequency did not influence hatching traits and chick quality. It was determined that there was no interaction effect between turning frequency and shape index on all the characteristics discussed. According to the results obtained from the research, it was observed that the 30 and 120 minute turning frequency of hatching eggs with different shape indexes had a negative effect on the hatchability of fertile eggs and late embryo mortality. It was concluded that even if the shape index of the hatching eggs were different, the optimum turning frequency should be every 60 minutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ram Jagannathan,1 João Sérgio Neves,2,3 Brenda Dorcely,4 Stephanie T Chung,5 Kosuke Tamura,6 Mary Rhee,7 Michael Bergman8 1Division of Hospital Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; 2Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular Research and Development Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; 3Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Sa&uppertilde;o Joa&uppertilde; o University Hospital Center, Porto, Portugal; 4NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, New York, NY 10016, USA; 5Diabetes, Obesity, and Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA; 6Social Determinants of Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk Laboratory, Cardiovascular Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; 7Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Atlanta VA Health Care System, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; 8NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Diabetes Prevention Program, Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, Manhattan Campus, New York, NY 10010, USACorrespondence: Ram JagannathanDivision of Hospital Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USAEmail ram.jagannathan@emory.eduAbstract: For over 100 years, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) has been the cornerstone for detecting prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). In recent decades, controversies have arisen identifying internationally acceptable cut points using fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-h post-load glucose (2-h PG), and/or HbA1c for defining intermediate hyperglycemia (prediabetes). Despite this, there has been a steadfast global consensus of the 2-h PG for defining dysglycemic states during the OGTT. This article reviews the history of the OGTT and recent advances in its application, including the glucose challenge test and mathematical modeling for determining the shape of the glucose curve. Pitfalls of the FPG, 2-h PG during the OGTT, and HbA1c are considered as well. Finally, the associations between the 30-minute and 1-hour plasma glucose (1-h PG) levels derived from the OGTT and incidence of diabetes and its complications will be reviewed. The considerable evidence base supports modifying current screening and diagnostic recommendations with the use of the 1‐h PG. Measurement of the 1‐h PG level could increase the likelihood of identifying high-risk individuals when the pancreatic ß-cell function is substantially more intact with the added practical advantage of potentially replacing the conventional 2‐h OGTT making it more acceptable in the clinical setting.Keywords: OGTT history, OGTT, glycated hemoglobin, diabetes, gestational diabetes, pathophysiology, 1-h post-load glucose, prediction, shape index

Cornelian cherry fruits are quite rich in bioactive compounds. Natural colour, rich flavonoids and anthocyanins and high antioxidant activity have made the fruits a natural drug. In the present study, antioxidant activity, total flavonoids and total phenolics of naturally growing 18 cornelian cherry genotypes with different phenotypic characteristics were determined. Size and shape parameters of the genotypes were also determined with the image-processing method; sphericity, elongation and shape index were calculated and shapes of two-dimensional fruit images were compared with elliptic Fourier analysis. Antioxidant activity, total flavonoid contents and total phenolic amounts of the genotypes were varied between 55.062 and 152.420 mmol TE · kg−1, 286.40 and 2,882.80 mg QE · kg−1, and 2,644.80 and 12,959.00 mg GAE · kg−1, respectively. Multivariate variance analysis conducted based on physical characteristics revealed that six genotypes were different from the others. Shape analysis with Elliptic Fourier method revealed that the majority of present cornelian cherry genotypes had an oval appearance and a small portion of them had a drop-like appearance. According to discriminant analysis and Hotelling's pair-wise comparison tests, there were five different shape groups for present genotypes. A single genotype was placed into one of these groups, thus it was determined that this genotype was totally different in shape from the others.

The fruits of myrtle at different stages of development, namely green (G), colour break (C) and mature (M), were used to investigate the changes of fruit quality and anthocyanin composition during its development. Five anthocyanin components, such as delphinidin (Dp), cyanidin (Cy), pelargonidin (Pg), peonidin (Pn) and malvidin (Mv), were detected. Among them, the content of Dp glucoside was the highest (2.12 μg · g−1) and the content of Pn glucoside was the lowest (0.17 μg · g−1) at the green stage. The content of Cy glucoside was the highest (120.94 and 1,200.03 μg · g−1), and the content of Mv glucoside was the lowest (19.50 and 62.72 μg · g−1) at the colour break and mature stages. The single fruit weight, vertical diameter and transverse diameter at the mature stage were significantly higher than those at the colour break and the green stages by 0.87 g, 1.27 mm, 1.53 mm and 1.54 g, 3.4 mm, 3.55 mm, respectively. Fruit quality, the contents of soluble sugar and carotenoids, gradually increased with the development of fruit; and the contents were the highest at the mature stage (17.68% and 16.90 μg · L−1). The contents of titratable acidity, total phenol, flavonoids, chlorophyll a and total chlorophyll gradually decreased with the development of fruit, the content was the lowest at the mature stage (2.71 mmol · 100 g−1, 9.29 μg · g−1, 0.1%, 0.37 μg · L−1, 0.9 μg · L−1) and the content was the highest at the green stage (5.25 mmol · 100 g−1, 21.07 μg · g−1, 0.17%, 8.86 μg · L−1, 15.47 μg · L−1). The difference between the green period and the colour break period was significant.

The present study was carried on Dahlem Red chicken breed to assess the effect of age on egg quality traits. Total 250 eggs were collected from birds at different age groups, i.e. 21, 28, 40, 52 and 64 weeks of age for studying the external and internal egg quality parameters. The external characters like egg weight, egg length and egg width were measured. Thereafter, the egg was broken and the internal traits like albumen length, height, width of albumen, yolk height, yolk width, shell thickness were recorded using standard procedure. The derived traits like shape index, albumen index, yolk index and Haugh unit, were estimated. Most of the egg quality traits differed significantly at different age of measurements. Egg weight increased as the age of bird advanced and egg weight varied from 39.35±0.69 at 21 week of age to 59.3±1.22 at 64 week of age. Analysis of variance revealed that shape index did not differ significantly with age. Length, width and height of albumen increased as the age of bird progressed. Albumin index was significantly higher at 21 and 40 weeks of age. Similarly, yolk height and width increased as the age of bird advanced. The differences for Haugh unit scores were non-significant among the different age groups and varied within a very narrow range (96.94–98.94) at different ages indicating uniform internal egg quality over the age. Significant differences in shell thickness were observed among different age groups. Correlation coefficient between egg weight with egg length, egg width, albumen length, albumen height and yolk width were positive. Albumen index and Haugh unit were negatively correlated with egg weight at 21, 52 and 64 week of age. The result indicate that the age of bird significantly affects the egg quality parameters.

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The aim of the study was to determine the main features concerning egg quality in the XL chicken population. For this purpose, 30 eggs for each productive month were used, covering a period of 13 productive months of the first egg production cycle. The following parameters were examined: egg weight (g), Egg Shape Index (%), Albumen Index (%), Haugh Units (HU), Yolk Index (%), Yolk Color (DSM), average egg shell thickness (μm), average egg shell surface area (cm²), egg shell density (mg/cm²) and the egg parts relative share (%). Eggs of the XL population have the following characteristics: average weight for the whole test period: 60.96±0.73 g; Shape index: 74.52±0.2%; Haugh units: 74.29±1.81; Albumen index: 6.92±0.33%; Yolk index: 46.64±0.48%; average egg shell surface area: 72.82±0.94 cm²; egg shell density: 90.05±3.47 mg/cm²; average egg shell thickness: 400.20±7.13 μm; gray-green color of the egg shell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]