Body Dimensions Research Articles

Penilaian Postur Kerja dengan Metode REBA pada UD. Bintang Terang Roti Ketawa

This research aims to determine the level of complaints felt by workers at UD. Bintang Terang Roti Ketawa, because there is the use of manual tools and a mismatch between body dimensions and the facilities used by the workers, seen from the results of the body map questionnaire that was distributed, there are many complaints felt by the workers, therefore the researchers identified body posture problems using the REBA method, from the assessment of the results using the REBA method obtained very high results or it was said that repairs were carried out immediately. Repairs or design of work facilities were carried out using anthropometric data of workers with normality test calculations, data adequacy, and uniformity so that the results obtained were in accordance with the dimensions of the workers' bodies, the results of facility design. The work succeeded in reducing the level of complaints felt by workers so that the design was suitable for use. Keywords: Anthropometrics, REBA, UMKM, Work Facilities

Characterization of indigenous chicken phenotypes in Liban Jawi District, Ethiopia: A qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Indigenous chickens play a crucial role in the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in rural Ethiopia. This study aimed to phenotypically characterize indigenous chickens in the Liban Jawi district, focusing on measurements of phenotypic characteristics. The multi-stage sampling method selected 192 households with at least two mature indigenous chickens from 2,166 households, resulting in the sampling of 224 chickens (138 females and 86 males) for phenotypic characterization. Qualitative trait analysis revealed that male chickens exhibited a plain head shape (54.7%), single combs (39.5%), red feather plumage (26.7%), yellow shanks (54.7%), red earlobes (51.6%), and white skin (68.6%). Female chickens showed single combs (75.4%), red earlobes (51.4%), yellow shanks (50.1%), and brown mottled feathers (23.9%), with red (23.1%) and black (9.4%) feathers observed. Quantitatively, cocks had an average body weight of 1.46±0.02 kg, while hens weighed 1.21±0.01 kg. Cocks exhibited larger body dimensions, with significant measurements in body length (38.05±0.26 cm) and wingspan (38.56±0.13 cm). For hens, the average body length was 31.55±0.33 cm. Shank length emerged as a moderate predictor of body weight for both sexes (r = 0.45 for hens and r = 0.44 for cocks), indicating it should be combined with other factors for accurate assessments. Cluster and multivariate analysis revealed distinct phenotypic groupings among the indigenous chickens, highlighting significant variations in both qualitative and quantitative traits. This suggests the potential for improvement through selective breeding at the community level, influenced by unique environmental conditions and practices. These findings provide valuable insights into the phenotypic characterization of indigenous chickens, serving as a foundation for future breeding programs and conservation efforts aimed at enhancing productivity and preserving genetic diversity. Further molecular-level characterization is recommended to validate the current phenotypic results.

Peculiarities of head size, total and longitudinal body dimensions in Ukrainian men and women with multiple sclerosis

Annotation. Understanding the anthropometric characteristics of patients with multiple sclerosis is important for identifying potential links between somatotype and the course of the disease. The study of parameters such as head size, total and longitudinal body dimensions is important given the prevalence and severity of multiple sclerosis. This may improve the approach to the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with multiple sclerosis. The aim of the study is to establish the characteristics and gender differences in cephalometric indicators, total and longitudinal body dimensions in young Ukrainian men and women with multiple sclerosis. Cephalometric indicators, total and longitudinal body dimensions were determined in 35 Ukrainian men and 59 young women with multiple sclerosis with mild, moderate and moderately severe disorders. As a control group, similar anthropometric indicators of 82 practically healthy Ukrainian men and 101 young women were taken from the data bank of the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsya Research Center. Statistical analysis was performed in the licensed statistical package “Statistica 6.0” using non-parametric evaluation methods. In all groups of sick men and women, smaller values of the greatest head width and sagittal arc and larger values of the greatest head length were established compared to practically healthy men or women. In sick men with mild and moderately severe disorders, as well as in sick women of the general group and moderate disorders, larger values of mass and body surface area were established compared to practically healthy men or women. In most groups of sick men and women, higher values of the height of the suprasternal, acromial and finger anthropometric points and lower values of the height of the pubic and acetabular anthropometric points were established compared to practically healthy men or women, which, against the background of the practical absence of body length differences between healthy and sick men or women, indicate a more elongated torso and shorter lower limbs (a manifestation of a “subpathological” constitutional type). Only single reliable or trends in the above body dimensions were established between sick men or women. Pronounced manifestations of sexual dimorphism were established for most cephalometric dimensions, total and longitudinal body dimensions between men with multiple sclerosis (larger values) and women.

Total and longitudinal body dimensions in Ukrainian men with alopecia areata

Annotation. Studying total and longitudinal body dimensions in patients with alopecia areata is important for assessing changes in anthropometric indicators associated with this disease. Studying the sexual characteristics of anthropometric indicators can contribute to improving diagnostic approaches and assessing the risks of developing concomitant pathologies. Analysis of the obtained data will allow integrating anthropological characteristics into a comprehensive strategy for the treatment and prevention of alopecia. The purpose of the study was to establish the characteristics of total and longitudinal body dimensions in young Ukrainian men with alopecia areata. Clinical-instrumental examination (using the ARAMO ASW 300 dermatoscope-trichoscope) and anthropological assessment (in accordance with the recommendations of Shaparenko P. P.) were conducted in 81 young Ukrainian men with alopecia areata. The severity of alopecia areata was assessed according to Shutskiy I. V. The control group included the total and longitudinal body dimensions of 82 practically healthy young Ukrainian men of the same age group, obtained from the database of the Scientific Research Center of the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsya. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using the licensed software package “Statistica 6.0” with non-parametric evaluation methods. In contrast to practically healthy individuals, young Ukrainian men with alopecia areata, regardless of overall status or severity levels (Grades 1, 2, and 3), demonstrated significantly greater or tendencies toward greater values for body mass (12.57-20.96 %), body surface area (4.26-12.56 %), acromial height (1.84-2.45 %), and digit anthropometric points (3.40-5.42 %). Additionally, significantly lower values were observed for pubic height (5.23-6.85 %) and trochanteric height (13.07-14.28 %). These findings indicate that, compared to practically healthy individuals, men with alopecia areata have shorter lower limbs and longer upper limbs and torso, which manifests as a “subpathological” constitutional type. No significant differences or trends in total and longitudinal body dimensions were identified among groups of patients with varying degrees of alopecia areata severity. Thus, the findings suggest both genetic predisposition (changes in longitudinal body dimensions) and the influence of environmental factors (changes in body mass) in the development of this multifactorial disease.

EFFECTIVENESS OF DISTRACTION AND ORTHOGNATHIC INTERVENTION IN THE TREATMENT OF MESIAL OCCLUSION IN PATIENTS WITH MAXILLARY UNDERDEVELOPMENT

Mesial occlusion is a complex orthodontic pathology that adversely affects facial aesthetics, masticatory function, and patient quality of life, making timely treatment critical. One of the modern methods of correction is distraction osteogenesis, which allows gradual expansion of bone structures while minimizing the risk of relapse. The choice of treatment is based on the patient's clinical presentation, with distraction being a priority in cases where traditional surgery is contraindicated. Aim of the study was a detailed analysis of the effectiveness and safety of various treatment methods for mesial occlusion in adult patients with maxillary underdevelopment. Material and methods. The study included 15 adolescent patients between the ages of 19 and 23 with skeletal mesial occlusion. Baseline diagnostic data were obtained for each patient, and the volume of bone tissue in the vestibulo-oral direction at the site of planned implant placement was assessed during preparation for implant placement. Statistically significant differences between alternative quantitative characteristics with normal distributions were evaluated using Student's t-test. A difference was considered statistically significant at p<0.01. The study was carried out in compliance with the main provisions of the Council of Europe Convention on Human Rights and Biomedicine (4 April 1997), the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki on the Ethical Principles for Scientific Medical Research Involving Human Subjects (1964-2013), ICH GCP (1996), orders of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine No. 690 of 23.09.2009, No. 944 of 14.12.2009, No. 616 of 03.08.2012. The work is a fragment of the research project “Correction of violations of osteogenesis processes in the treatment and prevention of complications of dental diseases wartime” state registration No. 0123U103247. Results. The results of the study showed that in adult patients, orthognathic surgery ensures favorable skeletal outcomes for maxillary mesialization. However, when the replacement of lateral incisors with canines is feasible, this treatment approach may reduce the number of rehabilitation stages while achieving dentoalveolar relationships that conform to normal standards. The use of distraction osteogenesis in adult patients has yielded good results and may be justified in cases of critical reduction of maxillary body dimensions or contraindications to conventional orthognathic surgery. Conclusion. Distraction osteogenesis and orthognathic procedures effectively correct mesial occlusion, ensuring a stable increase in the sagittal dimension of the maxilla and improving occlusion. Replacement of lateral incisors with canines minimizes the need for additional surgery in cases of agenesis. The choice of treatment method should be based on individual clinical indications and risk assessment for each patient.

METHODS OF ANALYSIS OF DYNAMIC PROCESSES IN DISCRETE-CONTINUUM SYSTEMS UNDER PULSE EXCITATIONS

This paper addresses the enhancement of methods for calculating vibration-impact machines, particularly concerning adjustments to prevent potential shock resonances. This design criterion for substantiating the parameters of vibration-impact machines had not been previously considered. However, the likelihood of shock resonance increases significantly with the mass of the process load, operating frequencies of vibration excitation, and overall dimensions of the thin-walled bodies of vibrating machines. Hence, prioritizing the criterion of tuning out resonant modes through the appropriate choice of housing parameters becomes crucial for modern, heavily loaded machines. This novel approach is proposed in this paper for calculating vibration-impact machines and armored vehicles. To analyze the conditions for the onset of resonant modes under periodic shock loading, single-mass, multi-mass, and continuum dynamic systems were sequentially considered. It was shown that, in the absence of friction, shock resonance occurs when any natural frequency of the machine body oscillations matches a multiple of the excitation frequency from the drive. Additionally, numerical integration of the system of differential equations of motion was used to confirm shock resonance conditions. The numerical results were consistent with the analytical ones. It was also determined that tuning away from the resonant frequency by 5% to 10% significantly alters the steady-state mode of the vibration machine, notably reducing oscillation amplitudes. Therefore, to substantiate the parameters of vibrating machines, it is essential to maximize the adjustment of the natural frequency spectrum of their bodies, considered as elastically deformable structures, away from frequencies that are multiples of the drive frequency. To implement this algorithm, we propose adopting a generalized parametric description. Variable parameters include the thickness of housing elements, their cross-sections, reinforcement schemes, and the number of stiffeners. It was found that varying these parameters diversely affects the migration of natural frequencies in the spectrum. Specific parameters with the greatest impact on detuning from shock resonance frequencies were identified. This set of parameters is used to determine the optimal set that satisfies the criterion of maximum detuning from shock resonance. Similar developments and studies have been conducted for the armor hulls of lightly armored vehicles.

A method for designing face shields using dynamic 3D head data

PurposeTo analyze the changes in craniofacial morphology during speaking and wearing masks using three-dimensional head data and to develop a design method for ergonomic face shields.Design/methodology/approachAround six types of face postures for three-dimensional measurement were selected; a total of 180 head data of 40 men in their 20s and 30s were used. About 17 landmarks and 23 body dimensions were measured for analysis.FindingsAmong the 23 anthropometric dimensions, eight in posture “a,” two in posture “i,” seven in posture “u,” ten in KF94 and ten in N95 were found to change significantly. Previous studies and public health recommendations selected three key dimensions for face shield design. A face shield design method using selected dimensions as parameters was developed.Social implicationsTo improve public health and enhance social interaction during pandemics or in environments requiring facial protection. This can lead to increased compliance with public health guidelines and reduce discomfort and communication barriers caused by ill-fitting face shields.Originality/valueBy developing an ergonomic face shield design that accommodates variations in craniofacial morphology during speaking and mask, the study addresses the need for more comfortable and effective protective equipment. The face shield designed using the methodology developed in this study was verified on a digital head model to demonstrate a good fit.

Analysis of lower-body dimensions and their implementation in compression garment development

This experimental study aims to develop an approach to quantify dimensional changes in the lower body of female football players, with the intention of demonstrating how the results can be used to inform the development of lower body sports compression garments. A framework was established in order to analyse 3D body scans in functional postures using Rhinoceros 3D® and Grasshopper as a response to the limitations of current scanner software. The outcome provides an alternative methodology to locate landmarks on the body and extract dimensions in various sporting postures. Suggestions have been made as to how this information can aid pattern making, sizing, and grading of sports compression leggings, that can provide the wearer with optimal clothing fit, pressure delivery and comfort.

Influence of body dimensions and sex on cold-induced vasodilation.

Cold-induced vasodilation (CIVD) is a physiological response characterized by cyclic vasodilation occurring within 5-10min of cold exposure, predominantly in the fingers and toes. This study aimed to determine the roles of body dimensions, specifically surface-to-mass (SM) ratio and sex in modulating CIVD responses. Thirty-nine participants (mean ± SD age: 24 ± 3yr; height: 174 ± 28cm; weight: 75.3 ± 15.2kg; 20 males & 19 females) completed a 30-min immersion of the digits in ice water while sitting in a thermoneutral room (22°C). Skin temperature was measured continuously on the anterior pads of the index, middle, ring, and little finger to assess CIVD parameters (onset time (tonset), minimum finger temperature (Tmin), maximum finger temperature (Tmax), mean finger temperature (Tmean), and CIVDwaves). A negative relationship was observed between Tmax and SM ratio (r = - 0.39, p = 0.001) and Tmean and SM ratio (r = - 0.32, p = 0.001), indicating that individuals with smaller SM ratios exhibited enhanced CIVD responses. A subgroup of 7 males and 7 females with identical anthropometrics from the original cohort showed no differences between any CIVD parameter: Tmean (Males: 8.0 ± 1.9°C; Females: 8.9 ± 1.6°C, p = 0.36), Tmax (Males: 11.2 ± 3.1°C; Females: 13.1 ± 1.2°C, p = 0.16), Tmin (Males: 5.9 ± 1.4°C; Females: 5.0 ± 1.7°C, p = 0.31), and tonset (Males: 12.0 ± 4.4min; Females: 9.6 ± 3.6min, p = 0.28). Therefore, body dimensions seem to play a crucial role in modulating CIVD responses, whereas sex does not.

The Associations Between Individual Anthropometric Measurements and Fracture Risk: A Mendelian Randomization Study.

The primary objective of this study was to investigate and substantiate the possible causal connections between measurements of body dimensions and the likelihood of experiencing fractures. We employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to examine the associations between anthropometric measurements and two specific traits-bone mineral density and fracture risk. To ensure the credibility of our causal conclusions, we used the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method along with various sensitivity analyses. Our findings suggest a notable link between increased height and the likelihood of fractures. Specifically, employing the IVW method revealed that for every 10-cm increase in height, there was a 6.0% rise in fracture risk (odds ratio [OR], 1.06; 95% CI, 1.06-1.13; P=.0001). This outcome was further supported by both the weighted-median method and the MR-Egger method, with an OR of 1.10 (95% CI, 1.03-1.16; P=.0003) and an OR of 1.11 (95% CI, 1.08-1.17; P=.0020), respectively. No statistically significant associations were observed between other measurements, such as body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio adjusted for BMI, hip circumference adjusted for BMI, and waist circumference adjusted for BMI, and fracture risk. Sensitivity analyses, including MR-Egger regression's intercept test and multivariate testing, indicated no substantial presence of directional pleiotropy in instrumental variables, ensuring the stability and reliability of our analysis results. Our study used MR to present genetic evidence supporting height as a distinct causal factor in fracture susceptibility. Our findings underscore the importance of incorporating anthropometric measurements into the development of strategies for preventing and treating osteoporosis. [Orthopedics. 202x;4x(x):xx-xx.].

The Relationship Between Body, Mind, and Social Characteristics in a Sample of a Training Program for Developing Social and Personal Resources: A Network Analysis.

In this cross-sectional study, the interactions between demographic characteristics and the body, mind, and social dimensions among participants of a holistic training program for social and personal development were examined and compared to a control group. The sample involved 223 adults from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, with 80 (37.2%) participants in the training group already having finished the training. To explore the variable relationships and compare group structures, advanced network analyses and a network comparison test were applied. The network analysis identified the training as a central variable, being linked to aspirations for societal impact and personal growth (0.31), aspirations for the pursuit of fame and wealth (0.29), transcendence (0.19), the desire to improve the quality of relationships (0.19), aspirations for personal wellbeing and relationships (0.15), and the presence of social resources (0.13). The group comparison revealed that the control group primarily connected through the "Sense of Coherence-Meaning in Life" axis, whereas the training group showed more complex linkages involving wellbeing, life satisfaction, meaning in life, and transcendence, underlining the training program's positive effect on personal growth, societal impact aspirations, and transcendence. Overall, the network comparison test revealed significant differences in network structure and overall connectivity between the training and the control group.

Application of a locking cortical pearl plate system to the feline lumbar vertebral column: a cadaveric study

ABSTRACT Aims: To assess the feasibility and safety of a locking cortical pearl plate system for the repair of lumbar vertebral fractures and luxation in cats using an ex vivo feline model. Methods: This cadaveric study of the lumbar vertebral column (L1–L7) involved 28 Domestic Short-hair cats without vertebral column pathology. Surrounding soft tissue was removed, except for the paravertebral musculature, joint capsules, and ligaments associated with the L1–L7 vertebrae. To determine whether the application of a 2.0-mm, 69-mm-long, 12-hole locking cortical pearl plate (LCPP) and screws was feasible, the dimensions of the feline lumbar vertebral bodies (length, width, and height) were measured using CT imaging. Width and height were evaluated at five locations along the length of the vertebrae with implant corridors (cor 1–cor4) located in between. Following CT, plates were applied to the vertebral columns. After implantation, another CT scan was performed to evaluate plate positions, screw trajectories, screw implantation angles, and vertebral canal breaching. Implantation was classified according to the modified Zdichavsky scoring system for vertebral canal penetration and grade I and IIa defined as acceptable. Results: A total of 371 screws were inserted into the lumbar vertebral bodies, and breaching occurred in 32 cases (8.6%), of which 29 (90.6%) were at L6 and L7. The median angle of inserted screws was 61.6° (min 53.4°, max 76.3°). Aside from one location, no significant angle deviations were observed between breaching (median 62.8°; min 53.4°, max 76.3°) and non-breaching (median 61.2°; min 53.8°, max 74.7°) screws. All 267 screws implanted in L1–L5 were graded I or IIa (acceptable). In contrast, low rates of acceptable implantation were achieved for L6 (52/60; 86.7%) and L7 (24/44; 54.4%), caused by clustering of breachings in corridor 3 of the two vertebrae. Conclusions: Application of the LCPP immediately proximal to the transverse processes and ventral to the pedicles with a screw implantation angle of 60° is feasible and appears safe for L1–L5, resulting in a low number of vertebral canal breaches and a high rate of acceptable implantations. Clinical relevance: The 2.0-mm, 69-mm-long, 12-hole LCPP can be considered an acceptable option for treating feline vertebral fractures and luxations of L1–L5. It cannot be recommended for use in corridor 3 of L6 or L7 due to the high risk of breaching the vertebral canal.

Allometry, sexual dimorphism, and Rensch's rule in pygmy and marbled newts.

Allometry, the relationship between body size and the size of other body parts, explains a significant portion of morphological variation across biological levels, at the individual level, within and between species. We used external morphology measurements of 6 Triturus (sub)species, focussing on the T. marmoratus species group, to explore allometric parameters within and between taxa. We tested for allometry of sexual size dimorphism in body, head, and limb dimensions and examined whether intraspecific allometry directed evolutionary allometry, as described by Rensch's rule. Our findings indicated that female-biased trunk and head dimensions exhibited positive allometry, whereas male-biased limb dimensions showed isometric relationships or weak correlations with body size. Morphological divergences between sexes occurred along common allometric slopes, most often through changes in the intercepts. Among taxon, comparisons revealed that (sub)species diverged in the direction of the allometric slopes. In line with Rensch's rule, sexual size dimorphism in female-biased traits significantly decreased as overall body size increased. However, the observed intraspecific allometric parameters deviated from theoretical expectations because the steepest allometric slopes for female-biased traits were recorded in the larger species. Our results contribute to understanding the dynamics of allometric relationships and sexual dimorphism in amphibians and provide a robust baseline for future comparative analyses.

Distortion of body image perception in the Prader-Willi syndrome: Relationship with the perceptual reasoning index

IntroductionSelf-perception of body image has been scarcely evaluated in people with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), who, in addition to intellectual disability, are often obese. Therefore, we explored whether people with PWS can accurately identify their true image and how this self-perception is impacted by their neuropsychological profile. MethodologyThis observational study included patients with PWS with regular attendance to transdisciplinary treatment at a center specialized in the management of rare diseases. All patients were evaluated with the Stunkard scale (including silhouettes ranging from extremely skinny to extremely obese) and the WISC-IV and WAIS-III questionnaires, specifically the perceptual reasoning index (PRI). ResultsAmong the 21 participants, 62% misperceived their body image, most underestimating their body dimensions (actual BMI 28.0±8.3kg/m2 vs self-perceived BMI 23.2±4.7kg/m2, p=0.03). While BMI differences between accurate and inaccurate body image perception were nonsignificant (accurate 26.6±8.8kg/m2 vs inaccurate 28.9±8.1kg/m2, p=0.56), individuals with accurate perception showed both higher PRI scores (accurate 67.6±8.2 vs inaccurate 60.2±7.2, p=0.043) and, to a lesser extent, intelligence quotients (IQ) (accurate 60.0±4.9 vs inaccurate 55.0±7.5, p=0.079). ConclusionIn this study, we identified distortion of body image perception as a very common finding among PWS patients, in most cases as underestimation, and influenced by the neuropsychological profile.

Three-dimensional distortion of free-stream turbulence with the leading-edge stagnation point of an elongated bluff body

The paper focuses on studying the unsteadiness, three-dimensionality, and distortion of free-stream turbulence approaching the stagnation point of an elongated bluff body. This aerodynamic problem is complicated because of the combination of blocking, distortion, and three-dimensional (3D) effects. Using the spectral tensor concept, a closed-form solution of the three-dimensional transfer function (3D AAF) of the fluctuating pressure at the stagnation point is proposed. The 3D AAF provides us with an appropriate way to quantitatively study these effects on the unsteady behavior of fluctuating pressures. Our experimental results indicate that the fluctuating pressure at low wavenumbers can be predicted by Bernoulli's equation. The 3D effect becomes more prominent for smaller-scale turbulence, resulting in a more correlated fluctuating pressure in a spanwise direction and a faster decay of pressure spectra at high wavenumbers. By contrast, the distortion plays a more important role in determining this rapid “roll-off” of the stagnation fluctuating pressure spectra. This tendency becomes more prominent with the increase in Lu/D, where Lu is the longitudinal turbulence scale, and D is the leading-edge body dimension. The possible physical interpretation for the unsteady behavior of fluctuating pressures at the stagnation point is discussed.

Changes in the ideal body shape associated with adolescent rowing-ergometry performance following a 6-week training intervention: New scaling insights using three-dimensional allometry.

Scaling, to remove the effects of body size, is an important methodological approach for enabling an equitable comparison of performance differences between individuals who vary in anthropometric characteristics. Many previous studies using scaling in sport have done so based on only one or two anthropometric characteristics, with only one study to date adopting a three-dimensional approach. To apply a three-dimensional allometric model to rowing ergometer performance (REP) in adolescents, and to detect whether key 'scaling' parameters remain stable when scaling REP both before and after a 6-week training intervention. Novel three-dimensional allometric models were used, incorporating body mass, stature and waist circumference (WC) to detect the most appropriate body size dimension(s) and scaling parameters associated with REP before and after a 6-week training intervention. Using this more flexible and sensitive three-dimensional allometry demonstrated that, following 6-weeks of training, there was a change in the ideal body shape associated with REP. Before training, taller, but not heavier, adolescents performed better. After 6-weeks of training, older participants with a greater body mass but smaller WC performed better. Scaling approaches are important for evaluating performance differences between individuals of differing body size. The findings from the current study (using a novel three-dimensional allometry approach) emphasise that relatively subtle changes in individuals' behavioural characteristics, such as changes in their training/fitness status, can result in quite dramatic changes in the body dimension characteristics and scaling parameters deemed to be key for performance in activities such as REP.

Amphibian Diversity and Morphometric Analysis in the Kadayam Region of the Tirunelveli District, India

This study examines the morphometric and genetic diversity of frog species in the agro ecosystems of Kadayam region part of the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot in India. By conducting an amphibian survey in Kadayam, Southern Western Ghats, eight species from three families were documented, with Dicroglossidae showing the highest species representation. Amphibians were sampled from various habitats-forests, water bodies, and cultivated lands between January and March 2017, with notable species Duttaphrynus melanostictus showing a high abundance in human occupied areas. Morphometric analyses were performed on features such as snout-vent length, head length, (SVL–SNOW-VENT LENGTH; HL - HEAD LENGTH; HW-HEAD WIDTH; LHU–LENGTH OF THE HUMERUS; FOL-FOREARM LENGTH; THL-THIGH LENGTH; TL-TIBIA LENGTH; IOD-INTERORBITAL DIAMETER; IND-INTER NOSTRIL DISTANCE; ED-EYE DIAMETER; END–EYE–NOSTRIL DISTANCE; and FL -FOOT LENGTH) and limb proportions across species, correlating these to understand habitat adaptations. Results indicated high endemism and diversity within frog populations of the Western Ghats, highlighting conservation needs due to threats like habitat modification and pollution. The high positive correlations among primary body dimensions (such as SVL, head length, and total length) suggest that these species exhibit proportional growth in these features, a common trait in morphometric analyses. This study underscores the significance of morphometric approaches in amphibian biodiversity assessments in ecologically sensitive regions.

Sex Estimation Using Heel-Ball Index: A Metric-Based Comparative Study on Foot and Footprint Dimensions.

Background: Sexual dimorphism plays a vital role in individual identification, and body dimensions can contribute to establishing a biological profile for identification purposes. Aims and Objectives: To determine the reliability of the Heel-Ball Index (HBI) in estimating sex from foot dimensions and footprint dimensions and also to investigate the potential of dimensions and indices, using a standardized value, in estimating sex, from foot dimensions and footprint dimensions. Materials and Methods: In this study, a group of 112 young Indian adults aged 18 to 22, consisting of 56 males and 56 females, was examined. The foot breadth at ball (BBAL) and foot breadth at heel (BHEL) of both feet were measured using sliding digital calipers from foot and footprint dimensions. Results: Significant sexual dimorphism was observed in BBAL, BHEL, and HBI (HBI = BHEL/BBAL × 100) measurements in both feet of both sexes. Conclusion: HBI yielded better accuracy for foot dimensions than footprint dimensions. It was also found that utilizing absolute foot dimensions (BBAL and BHEL) yielded more accurate results in estimating sex compared to the HBI, which is calculated as a ratio of absolute measurements.

Ecological fitness impairments induced by chronic exposure to polyvinyl chloride nanospheres in Daphniamagna

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure (21 days) to an environmentally relevant concentration (10 μg/L) of two different nanoplastic (NP) polymers on the aquatic model organism Daphnia magna. This study examined the impact of exposure to 200 nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and polyvinyl chloride nanoplastics (PVC-NPs), which had an average size similar to that of PS-NPs (ranging from 50 nm to 350 nm). The effects of polymer exposure on morphometric parameters, number of molts, swimming behaviour, and reproductive outcomes were evaluated. The findings indicate that PVC exposure induced higher body dimensions, while both polymers resulted in an increase in molting behaviour. Moreover, exposure to PVC-NPs had a negative impact on the reproduction of D. magna, as evidenced by a delay in the day of the first brood, a reduction in the total number of offspring produced, and, consequently, a slower population growth rate. It is hypothesised that the ingestion of PVC-NPs by D. magna may have resulted in an impairment of ecdysone hormone functionality and that the increased moulting events potentially representing an adaptive response to the negative effects of PVC-NP adhesion to the organism's body surfaces. These two organisms' responses could concur to explain the observed effects. This study identified the fitness impairments caused by exposure to PVC-NPs, which can lead to relevant ecological consequences. The comparative analysis of the effects induced by two types of polymers has revealed the generation of disparate hazards to D. magna. Furthermore, the chemical composition appears to be a pivotal factor in the onset of these effects. It can therefore be stated that PS is not a suitable standard for representing the toxicity of all plastics.

The Public and Private Dimensions of Chinese Women's Bodies—From Reproductive Policies to Bodily

This study examines the impact of China’s evolving reproductive policies and the recently implemented "cooling-off period" for divorce, underscoring how these shifts implicitly discipline women’s reproductive and marital autonomy. Despite the transition from the "One-Child Policy" to the "Three-Child Policy" appearing to offer increased reproductive choice, women’s decisions are still heavily influenced by family expectations, including pressure to bear male children, the demands of multiple births, and constraints on birthing choices. Such interventions not only intensify psychological pressures but also contribute to social issues like postpartum depression, suicide, and marital instability. By analyzing policies and relevant data, this paper reveals the combined influence of state and family on women’s reproductive behaviors and explores approaches to balance competing interests among the state, family, and individuals. Key recommendations include strengthening legal protections, expanding social support systems, and promoting cultural change to respect women’s autonomy over their reproductive choices. The broader implications of these policy adjustments emphasize the critical role of reproductive autonomy in achieving gender equality and sustaining social development. This issue transcends national borders, positioning it within the broader global movement for gender autonomy.