Was Gordon Robilliard right? Integrative systematics suggest that Dendronotus diversicolor (multicolor frond-aeolis) is a valid species

The proximal femur morphology changes with age, which may complicate the compatibility of contemporary cementless stem designs in very elderly patients. This study investigated the internal and external proximal femur morphology, correlated canal dimensions with external dimensions, and examined whether age-associated changes in the femoral canal and external morphology are related in subjects aged 80 years and older. Three-dimensional models of human femora were reconstructed from computed tomographic (CT) scans of 90 very elderly subjects (mean 84 years, range 80-105 years). Morphological parameters describing the location of the femoral head center (FHC) (i.e. neck-shaft angle [NSA], mediolateral offset [ML-offset], and distance between lesser trochanter (LT) and FHC [LT-FHC]) and parameters describing the canal morphology (i.e. the cortices, canal dimensions, and canal flare index [CFI]) were measured. Regression and correlation analyses were performed in order to assess the relation between internal and external morphology. No significant associations regarding dimensions nor geometry between internal and external femur morphology could be detected. Canal dimensions were not able to predict the external dimensions more accurately than the deviation between the individual value and the mean value for the total cohort. Based on these findings, proportional sizing of the cementless femoral component is not necessarily endorsed in very elderly patients, and age-associated changes of the femoral canal and external morphology do not appear to be related. However, further research is needed to evaluate the ability of contemporary non-modular cementless stems to anatomically reconstruct the proximal femur in very elderly patients specifically.

The aim of this study was to analyse the correlation between external and internal mandibular morphology in adult or adolescent normal anthropological mandibles. Lateral radiographs of 31 symmetrical mandibles were analysed. The external morphology was defined by the gonial and beta-angles. In order to analyse internal morphology, a metallic pin was placed in the mental canal on the left side before radiography. The angle between the mental and the mandibular canals was termed the 'mental angle' and that expressing the curvature of the mandibular canal, the 'mandibular angle'. Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate the relationships between the angles. Internal morphology: a statistically significant correlation was found between the mental and mandibular angles (correlation coefficient: -0.60, P=0.0004). When the mental angle was narrow, the mandibular angle tended to be wide, while a wide mental angle was interrelated with a narrow mandibular angle. External morphology: a statistically significant correlation was found between the mandibular and gonial angles (correlation coefficient: 0.57, P=0.0009). A weaker correlation was also found between the mandibular and beta-angles. The findings show that the internal courses of the mandibular and mental canals are interrelated. They also indicated that the course and morphology of the mandibular canal are interrelated with external mandibular morphology.

SummaryTraditionally, the classification of bees has been conducted with the aid of dissecting (light) microscopy. In more recent times, detailed information on external and internal morphology for bee classification has been obtained using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. MicroCT is emerging as a new method for non-invasive 3D computerised X-ray tomographic imaging of insects at the microscopic level and, in this study, has been evaluated for its use in morphological studies of bees. A Skyscan 1172 MicroCT system was used to assess the internal and external morphology of the Australian stingless bee Trigona carbonaria with particular focus on the proventricular plates. MicroCT was useful in non-invasively visualising gross external morphological features such as the articulations of the coxae, trochanters, tibiae and tarsi of each leg including broadened hind basitarsi. Image magnification revealed further detail such as antennal scapes and the various parts of the tongue including the proboscis and labium. However, the individual facets of the eye were barely discernable and MicroCT did not reveal fine details of hairs on the body or legs. Internal morphology was clearly visualised, including the tracheal system and details of the proventriculus and proventricular basal plates which form the leaflets of the proventricular valve. Thus, the characteristic features of the proventricular basal plates of Meliponini could be quickly and easily identified non-invasively. Therefore, MicroCT, as one of the emerging techniques of diagnostic radioentomology, has particular advantages for non-invasively and non-destructively imaging bees and, particularly, rare or more scientifically valued insects such as museum specimens and those trapped in amber.

Phreatic Overgrowth on Speleothems (POS) are a specific type of speleothem that growth at the surface of the brackish lakes in littoral caves. These lakes are direct or indirectly related to the height of the sea level, therefore, the POS precipitates at the height of the sea in the moment of their growth. This condition makes the POS a perfect marker of past sea level. These speleothems are very unusual and have only been found in few caves around the world. Up to the present, most of these deposits have been located on the island of Mallorca, where the largest collection of this type of speleothems have been studied. This study presents a complete classification of POS in hand-size scale and in thin section. The first one is based on the internal and external morphology of the POS and its acquired shape depending on the substrate on which these precipitates grow. The second one, related to the thin section study, allows to recognize a variety of crystalline fabrics: needle-like aragonite crystals (An), fibrous fascicular optic calcite (Ffo), columnar fascicular optic calcite (Cfo), columnar calcite (C), mosaic calcite (Mc), mosaic calcite with aragonite needles (MCan) and micrite (M) and microsparite calcite fabric (Ms). , Some of these fabrics were previously described in other speleothems (as stalactites or stalagmites) and others are new, not previously described in speleothems. All this information shows several important ideas: 1) most of the POS precipitate around previous stalactite-type vadose speleothem; 2) aragonite POS are mainly globular and fan shaped in their external and internal morphology, respectively, and aragonite mineralogy only appears in needle-like crystal fabric; 3) calcite POS are related to branched internal and external morphology and present more variability in their crystal fabric, being the mosaic type the most common. The data obtained have been used to identify some relationships between the precipitation conditions of POS and the features of these precipitates. This classification and the conclusions of the precipitation conditions demonstrate the importance of POS as a proxy. Moreover, this study helps to understand the precipitation process of POS and can be implemented and reviewed in POS deposits of other parts of the world.

Background: Root morphology of first permanent molars has been reported to be complex and associated with ethnicity, age, and gender. Objective: To assess the external and internal root morphology of first permanent molars extracted from dental patients of similar ethnicity in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed the external and internal root morphology of first permanent molars extracted from adult patients attending dental clinics in Dar es Salaam. External morphology was visually assessed for root separation or fusion. Separated roots were assessed for the presence and direction of curvature using a graph paper with a drawn vertical and horizontal grid. Computed tomography scanning assessed the internal morphology of teeth embedded in wax blocks. Using transverse slice images at level of pulp floor, number and distance between canal orifices in a root were assessed. Data were analyzed descriptively. For associations, a p-value of <0.05% and 95% confidence intervals were used. Results: Of the 384 extracted teeth, 275 (71.6%) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Majority, (64.2%) of mandibular molars were extracted from patients aged 18-40 years (70.6%) and females (57.6%). Three, (91.2%) and two, (98.0%) separated roots were observed in maxillary and mandibular molars, respectively. Distal curvature of maxillary mesiobuccal root (52.0%) was statistically significantly related to age. Mandibular mesial (83%) roots were curved buccal (p > 0.05). Maxillary mesiobuccal and mandibular mesial roots showed higher proportion of two canal orifices with mean distance of 0.11-0.39 mm between orifices. Conclusion: The majority of maxillary and mandibular first permanent molars from Tanzanian adult dental patients had an external morphology of three and two separated roots with distal curvature of mesiobuccal roots of maxillary molars being statistically significantly related to age. The internal morphology of maxillary mesiobuccal and mandibular mesial roots showed higher proportion of two canal orifices with mean distance varying between 0.11 and 0.39 mm. Variations in root morphology were not related to sex.

Isostichopus badionotus (Selenka, 1867) is distributed in the Atlantic Ocean. It has been recognized as a species with highly variable intraspecific coloration. To clarify taxonomic confusion and show the characters for correct identification of this valuable species, mitochondrial DNA (16S and COI), color patterns, external and internal morphology, ossicles, and habitat were examined in specimens from museum collections and from original sampling. As part of the revision, I. fuscus (Ludwig, 1875) from the Eastern Pacific Ocean and I. macroparentheses (Clark, 1922) from the Caribbean Sea, the only other two species currently recognized in the genus Isostichopus, were included. It was concluded that I. fuscus and I. macroparentheses are distinct and valid species, and that I. badionotus consists of two species: I. badionotus and I. maculatus (Greeff, 1882), previously synonymized as I. baqdionotus by Clark (1922). Isostichopus maculatus includes two subspecies, the nominal I. maculatus maculatus (Greeff, 1882) and I. maculatus phoenius (Clark, 1922), described as Stichopus badionotus var. phoenius Clark, 1922. Isostichopus maculatus maculatus, distributed in the East Atlantic, is very similar to I. maculatus phoenius, but differs in DNA characters, color pattern, and the size and shape of the tables in the dorsal papillae. Isostichopus maculatus phoenius, widely distributed in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, is sympatric with I. badionotus, has similar ossicles but is clearly distinguished by its DNA sequences, color patterns, and habitat preferences. For the first time, ossicles from internal organs are described for Isostichopus, enhancing original species descriptions. Distribution maps, habitat, biology, conservation status, and a taxonomic key for distinguishing these species to aid their fishery management and aquaculture are presented.

ObjectivesThe study of the development of human bipedalism can provide a unique perspective on the evolution of morphology and behavior across species. To generate new knowledge of these mechanisms, we analyze changes in both internal and external morphology of the growing human talus in a sample of modern human juveniles using an innovative approach.Materials and MethodsThe sample consists of high‐resolution microCT scans of 70 modern juvenile tali, aged between 8 postnatal weeks and 10 years old, from a broad chronological range from Middle/Late Neolithic, that is, between 4800 and 4500 BCE, to the 20th century. We applied geometric morphometric and whole‐bone trabecular analysis (bone volume fraction, degree of anisotropy, trabecular number, thickness, and spacing) to all specimens to identify changes in the external and internal morphology during growth. Morphometric maps were also generated.ResultsDuring the first year of life, the talus has an immature and globular shape, with a dense, compact, and rather isotropic trabecular architecture, with numerous trabeculae packed closely together. This pattern changes while children acquire a more mature gait, and the talus tends to have a lower bone volume fraction, a higher anisotropy, and a more mature shape.DiscussionThe changes in talar internal and external morphologies reflect the different loading patterns experienced during growth, gradually shifting from an “unspecialized” morphology to a more complex one, following the development of bipedal gait. Our research shows that talar plasticity, even though genetically driven, may show mechanical influences and contribute to tracking the main locomotor milestones.

An extensive taxonomic revision of Gymnura micrura based on external and internal morphology, and considering specimens from its entire geographical distribution in the Atlantic Ocean, is presented. Gymnura micrura is redescribed and a neotype is designated; its distributional range is limited to the Southwestern Atlantic. Two new species of butterfly rays are described: Gymnura lessae, sp. nov., occurring in the North and Central Western Atlantic, and Gymnura sereti, sp. nov., found in the Eastern Central Atlantic. The three species are morphologically very similar (with G. micrura most similar to G. lessae, sp. nov.) and cannot be distinguished based on the primary diagnostic characters typically utilized for butterfly rays. The dorsal color, smaller size and eventual presence of a dorsal fin in some males may be helpful to distinguish G. micrura, whereas the size and morphology of the clasper are the main external characters separating G. sereti, sp. nov., from the other two species, although the shape of disc (especially among adult males) and contour of the lower lip are also helpful. Despite the skeleton being conservative among the species, we found consistent variations that support the validity of the new species described. Due to similarity in external morphology these internal characters were fundamental to discriminate the new species. The scapulocoracoid was an important diagnostic skeletal structure, exhibiting a series of variations that separated the three species. Variations in the synarcual, outline of the dorsal cranial fontanelle, number and shape of mesopterygia, and small differences in the mandibular arches and pelvic girdle were useful to diagnose G. sereti, sp. nov. The contour of the hyomandibula was an important diagnostic character distinguishing G. lessae, sp. nov., from the other two species. Meristic data were also useful, with G. sereti, sp. nov., presenting a lower number of radials in the second element of the mesopterygium and a higher number of diplospondylous vertebrae. In contrast, G. lessae, sp. nov., presented a higher number of pectoral-fin radials. Subtle, but consistent differences, were also found in the design of the ventral lateral-line system. A Canonical Discriminant Analysis provides strong statistical support for the validity of the new species, significantly distinguishing the three species groupings (p < 0.00001). External morphology, ventral lateral-line system and skeleton are described and illustrated for all three valid species.

Atmospheric N2O concentrationwas observed in the Pacific for the period 1991–2006, using commercial container ships sailing between Japan and North America and between Japan and Australia or New Zealand. The N2O concentration showed a secular increase and interannual variations at all sampling locations, but a seasonal cycle was detectable only at northern high latitudes. The annual mean N2O concentration showed little longitudinal variations (within ± 0.3 ppb) in the northern Pacific, but showed a clear north-south gradient of about 0.8 ppb, with higher values in the Northern Hemisphere. The annual mean N2O was also characterized by especially high values at 30◦N due to strong local N2O emissions and by a steep latitudinal decrease from the equator to 20◦S due to the suppression of interhemispheric exchange of air by the South Pacific Convergence Zone. The N2O growth rate showed an interannual variation with a period of about 3 yr (high-values in 1999 and 2000), with a delayed eastward and poleward phase propagation in the northern and western Pacific, respectively. The interannual variations of the N2O growth rate and soil water showed a good correlation, suggesting that the N2O emission from soils have an important causative role in the atmospheric N2O variation.

BackgroundSection Calochroi is one of the most species-rich lineages in the genus Cortinarius (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) and is widely distributed across boreo-nemoral areas, with some extensions into meridional zones. Previous phylogenetic studies of Calochroi (incl. section Fulvi) have been geographically restricted; therefore, phylogenetic and biogeographic relationships within this lineage at a global scale have been largely unknown. In this study, we obtained DNA sequences from a nearly complete taxon sampling of known species from Europe, Central America and North America. We inferred intra- and interspecific phylogenetic relationships as well as major morphological evolutionary trends within section Calochroi based on 576 ITS sequences, 230 ITS + 5.8S + D1/D2 sequences, and a combined dataset of ITS + 5.8S + D1/D2 and RPB1 sequences of a representative subsampling of 58 species.ResultsMore than 100 species were identified by integrating DNA sequences with morphological, macrochemical and ecological data. Cortinarius section Calochroi was consistently resolved with high branch support into at least seven major lineages: Calochroi, Caroviolacei, Dibaphi, Elegantiores, Napi, Pseudoglaucopodes and Splendentes; whereas Rufoolivacei and Sulfurini appeared polyphyletic. A close relationship between Dibaphi, Elegantiores, Napi and Splendentes was consistently supported. Combinations of specific morphological, pigmentation and molecular characters appear useful in circumscribing clades.ConclusionOur analyses demonstrate that Calochroi is an exclusively northern hemispheric lineage, where species follow their host trees throughout their natural ranges within and across continents. Results of this study contribute substantially to defining European species in this group and will help to either identify or to name new species occurring across the northern hemisphere. Major groupings are in partial agreement with earlier morphology-based and molecular phylogenetic hypotheses, but some relationships were unexpected, based on external morphology. In such cases, their true affinities appear to have been obscured by the repeated appearance of similar features among distantly related species. Therefore, further taxonomic studies are needed to evaluate the consistency of species concepts and interpretations of morphological features in a more global context. Reconstruction of ancestral states yielded two major evolutionary trends within section Calochroi: (1) the development of bright pigments evolved independently multiple times, and (2) the evolution of abruptly marginate to flattened stipe bulbs represents an autapomorphy of the Calochroi clade.

Sequence data of nuclear and mitochondrial genes obtained from specimens of Philinopsis collected in the Bahamas revealed two genetically distinct groups. Further examination of the shell and male reproductive morphology revealed consistent anatomical differences between them, corroborating that they are distinct species. The two species also display consistent differences in external morphology and colour pattern that became evident only after the molecular information was analysed. A review of the literature suggests that one of the species is Philinopsis petra, a widespread species in the Caribbean and northern Brazil, whereas the other is described here as a new species. Although both are sympatric in the Bahamas, they appear to be ecologically analogous, suggesting that they might have speciated allopatrically.

Migration, modification and merging in aeolian systems and the significance of the depositional mechanisms in Permian and Triassic dune sands of Europe and North America

The external morphology and internal buccal characteristics of Leptodactylus elenae tadpoles are described and compared with other Leptodactylus species. The external morphology and anatomy of the buccal cavity of L. elenae are similar to other Leptodactylus in the fuscus group and suggest a pond-larval diet. The most variable features among Leptodactylus species are the lingual papillae number and the lateral ridge papillae. The latter are small and lack terminal branches in tadpoles of L. elenae. Leptodactylus tadpoles exhibit variable morphology, sometimes convergent with other genera in the family. However, it seems that both external larval morphology and internal buccal features support the current groups of Leptodactylus.

An unusual anatomic variation of a unicornuate uterus with normal external uterine morphology

The Indo-Pacific species Hypselodoris infucata (Rüppell and Leuckart, 1830) and Hypselodoris obscura (Stimpson, 1855) have been regarded as distinct by most authors. In this paper, numerous specimens with the colour pattern described for both H. infucata and H. obscura, and collected from localities comprising the geographic range of both nominal species, have been examined and anatomically studied. All specimens from south-east Australia, the type locality of H. obscura, consistently have a very long ejaculatory portion of the vas deferens, whereas in specimens collected from other Indo-Pacific localities this portion is very short. There are no other major morphological or anatomical differences between H. infucata and H. obscura. It is not clear whether H. obscura and H. infucata are different species, but since there is at least a consistent anatomical difference between them, they are provisionally regarded as distinct. The reproductive system, radula and external morphology are extremely variable among specimens of H. infucata. Specimens from Indo-Pacific localities other than south-east Australia, even those externally similar to H. obscura, belong to H. infucata. Hypselodoris saintvincentius Burn, 1962, which has been regarded as a synonym of H. infucata, is clearly distinguishable by the external coloration, reproductive system and radular morphology. Phylogenetic evidence indicates that H. saintvincentius is the sister species of H. infucata and H. obscura. A re-examination of the holotype of the uncertain species Brachychlanis pantherina Ehrenberg, 1831 revealed that it is conspecific with Hypselodoris infucata. Therefore, the name Brachychlanis Ehrenberg, 1831, which has not been used for more than 50 years, has preference over the widely used name, Hypselodoris Stimpson, 1855. In order to preserve nomenclatural stability invalidation of the name Brachychlanis is proposed.