Head Length Research Articles

Two new records of worm or spaghetti eel genus <i>Moringua</i> (Anguilliformes: Moringuidae) from estuaries and lagoons in Vietnam

During the survey, eighty-two specimens of the two species were collected from estuaries and lagoons in central Vietnam, including Moringua microchir Bleeker, 1853 and M. raitaborua (Hamilton, 1822), as new records for marine fish fauna of Vietnam with morphometric and meristic details of the species. M. microchir Bleeker, 1853 is characterized by a body depth of 30–44.5 in TL. Head length of 8.7–10.7 in TL, anus far behind a middle length, distances from the tip of snout to the anus are 1.5–1.6 in TL. The pectoral fin is very small and rudimentary, with a length of 10.6–30.5 in HL, and its vertebrae total 105–108. M. raitaborua (Hamilton, 1822) is distinguished by the vertebrae total of 102–104, body depth of 26.7–40.9 in TL, and head length of 7.4–8.7 in TL. Rictus before the posterior margin of the eye, pectoral fin small, but not rudimentary, its length of 3.3–5.8 in HL. We also found some features of them are morphological variations in the ontogenetic stage. They differ significantly in appearance by length group. This discovery may suggest that these two species have extended distribution to Vietnam.

Inside the head of Crotalus durissus LINNAEUS, 1758 (Serpentes, Viperidae, Crotalinae): Macroscopic description of the brain with ontogenetic insights.

Neuroanatomy studies in vertebrates have garnered significant attention in recent years, particularly driven by advancements in computerized tomography imaging techniques. Nonetheless, these advancements remain largely constrained to specific vertebrate groups, notably mammals, birds, and fish, leaving studies in reptiles at an incipient stage. In this work, we aim to describe in detail the macroscopic morphology of the brain of Crotalus durissus based on a sample of four young and four adult individuals-three male and five female specimens, providing the first detailed description of the brain with a relatively modest sample available for reptiles. Our results show that the major macroscopic features identified in C. durissus suggest a brain structure typical of a multi-habitat and cathemeral/nocturnal alethinophidian species, thereby contributing significant data to the understanding of brain morphological evolution in snakes. Brain measurements showed distinct scaling patterns related to snout-vent length and head length, with variables such as brain length and cerebral hemisphere length decreasing with SVL, while others like olfactory bulb length and medulla oblongata width increased. Additional differences were observed comparing juveniles and adults, with adults generally exhibiting larger mean values for cerebellum and medulla oblongata measurements. However, the small sample size highlights the need for future studies with larger datasets to validate these findings and explore the developmental trajectories in greater detail.

The effect of the egg storage time on the hatching success, morphometrics of larvae, and adult emergence of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus

AbstractAedes aegypti (L.) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse) are important vectors that transmit arboviruses such as Dengue virus (DENV), Yellow fever virus (YFV), Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), and Zika virus (ZIKV). Focusing on the unique characteristics of their eggs to withstand dry conditions, this study aimed to elucidate the viability of dry‐stored eggs and the subsequent morphometric changes in larvae and adult mosquitoes upon rehydration. Experiments were carried out using ovitrap‐collected eggs, which were reared in the laboratory until adult emergence. The resulting mosquitoes were fed on cattle blood and sugar solution and allowed to lay eggs on the paper strips, which were air‐dried and stored for 6 months. The viability of these eggs was tested monthly. The head length and total length of fourth‐instar larvae and head, thorax, abdomen, wing length, wing width, and total length of adults were measured, including the days needed for adult emergence. The results imply that the prolonging of the egg storage period led to a decline in viability, delayed emergence of adults, and a negative impact on the morphometrics of fourth‐instar larvae in both Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Nonetheless, the morphometrics of the adults did not exhibit any significant differences compared to those of fresh eggs.

STATURE ESTIMATION FROM CEPHALO FACIAL MEASUREMENTS IN GUJARATI RAJPUT POPULATION

Stature estimation plays a crucial role in forensic anthropology and biological profiling, aiding in personal identification in forensic and archaeological contexts. This study focuses on stature estimation from cephalo-facial measurements in the Gujarati Rajput population, an endogamous group with distinct anthropometric traits. Using a sample of individuals from this population, various craniofacial parameters were recorded and analyzed to establish predictive regression models for stature estimation. The study employed standard anthropometric techniques to measure cephalo-facial dimensions, including head length, head breadth, facial height, and bizygomatic breadth. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression analysis, were performed to determine the relationship between stature and craniofacial measurements. The findings highlight significant correlations between specific craniofacial dimensions and stature, enabling the formulation of population-specific regression equations for accurate stature estimation. These results contribute to forensic casework, providing a scientific basis for reconstructing biological profiles from incomplete skeletal remains. The study also emphasizes the importance of population-specific anthropometric standards in forensic anthropology.

Correlation analysis of a novel artificial intelligence optical microscope-assisted semen assessment system with IVF outcomes.

On the day of fresh oocyte retrieval in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, a novel portable artificial intelligence optical microscope (AIOM) was employed to assist in the assessment of semen parameters. This study analyzed the correlation between sperm kinetic and morphological parameters with short-term IVF outcomes. Additionally, it explored whether these parameters could serve as predictive indicators for rescue intracytoplasmic sperm injection (R-ICSI) in IVF patients. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients undergoing short-term IVF at the West China Second Hospital of Sichuan University between May 2021 and May 2024. Based on fertilization outcomes, the short-term IVF patients were categorized into a successful fertilization group (group A, n = 281) and a group requiring R-ICSI after failed fertilization (group B, n = 49). AIOM was utilized to analyze semen parameters including pH, sperm concentration, sperm motility parameters, sperm movement trajectory parameters, and sperm morphological parameters. The study further investigated the correlation between these short-term IVF fertilization-related laboratory indicators and IVF outcomes. No statistically significant difference was observed in semen pH between the two groups. However, there were significant differences in sperm concentration and the majority of motility parameters. Specifically, compared to group A, patients in group B exhibited lower sperm concentration (p = 0.01), motility (p = 0.01), local motility (p = 0.01), progressive motility (PR) (p = 0.00), total motility (p = 0.01), and amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) (p < 0.01), along with higher immotility (p = 0.00). No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups in other sperm motility, velocity, or trajectory parameters. Additionally, sperm morphological parameters were also associated with short-term IVF fertilization outcomes. Compared to group A, group B had higher sperm head length mean (p < 0.01), head perimeter mean (p < 0.01), and head area mean (p = 0.01), as well as lower tail length mean (p = 0.01). Multivariate regression analysis of fertilization outcomes indicated that higher immotility (p = 0.01) and head length mean (p < 0.01), along with lower tail length mean (p = 0.04), were independent risk factors affecting successful short-term IVF fertilization. Notably, head length mean showed a significant negative correlation with polyspermy rate (p < 0.01), whereas tail length mean was significantly positively correlated with polyspermy rate (p < 0.01). Optimization of semen parameters with AIOM at the time of fertilization is significantly associated with short-term IVF fertilization outcomes. Abnormal semen parameters at fertilization-specifically, higher immotility and head length mean, along with lower tail length mean-can be considered risk factors for fertilization failure and may serve as predictive indicators for potential R-ICSI.

Morphometric Responses of Ross 308 Male Broilers to Yeast β-Glucan Supplementation during Feed Stress

Broiler chicken have been subjected to intensive genetic selection, making them the fastest growing farmed avians. The primary determining factor is the feed which is the success behind the rearing of broilers. Some growth-promoting substances and antibiotics have been used in the broiler industry, which can negatively impact the overall health. In this study, Yeast β-glucans are carbohydrates made up of complex glucose polymers which is known for immunomodulating capabilities and potential use in poultry diets. This study involved total of 54-day-old birds (3 replicates x 6 N x 3 diets) that were divided into three treatment pens based on the diet given for 7 weeks. Morphometric measurements were employed to analyse the body orientation and dimensions of organisms, which can be used for growth prediction. Results revealed significant changes in body weight in broiler chicks that were exposed to feed stress, which the broilers in pen-1 and pen-3 showed good morphometric changes compared to pen-2 showed decrease in changes after the fifth week. The positive correlation coefficient between body weight and morphometric traits supports previous research, with body weight being reliably predicted with other morphometric traits like head length and back length. The present study suggested that supplementing yeast β-glucan in broiler chicken diets can positively influence various morphometric characteristics, particularly when combined with other feed additives.

Phenotypic variation among four Lake Trout morphs at six locations in Lake Superior

ABSTRACT Objective The Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush diversified into multiple morphs in many lakes of northern North America. Four morphs remain in Lake Superior, of many forms that arose since the most recent glaciation of North America. Our objective was to determine if Lake Trout phenotypic diversity was greater within or among four morphs at six geographically distant locations in Lake Superior. Methods Lake Trout were sampled using standardized multi-mesh gill nets in three depth strata at six locations in Lake Superior that were known to have multiple morphs and were assigned to one of four morphs by reconciling statistical (geometric morphometric analysis of head and body shape) and visual (agreement among three experts) assignment rules. The relative importance of morphs, locations, the interaction between morphs and locations, and residual error for describing variation in head and body shape and associated linear traits were compared. Results The same four morphs were present at nearly all locations. Variation in head and body shape, and associated linear characteristics (head depth, preorbital length, body depth, caudal peduncle length, and caudal peduncle depth), was greater among morphs than among locations. This finding supports a hypothesis that Lake Trout morphs were consistent in shape and related linear traits across a large spatial scale within an environmentally diverse large lake, thereby possibly reflecting genetic differences among morphs. In contrast, variation in linear dimensions describing fin lengths, maxillary length, and other linear segments of head and body length was greater among locations than among morphs. This finding suggests that expressions of these morphometric measures was influenced by location-specific abiotic and biotic conditions. Conclusions We conclude that Lake Trout morphs appeared to have a genetic component to their head and body shape and some other linear morphometric characteristics that was differentially expressed in relation to local environmental conditions.

Influence of Phosphorus and Zinc Nutrition on Growth and Yield of Wheat

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2020-21 at Agronomy Instructional Farm, C. P. College of Agriculture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. The soil of experimental field was loamy sand in texture with neutral in reaction (pH 7.01) and electrical conductivity within safe limit (0.19 dSm-1). The soil was low in organic carbon content (0.39 %), DTPA-extractable Fe (2.59 mg kg-1), DTPA-extractable Mn (4.51 mg kg-1); medium in available P2O5 (41.26 kg ha-1), K2O (162.65 kg ha-1), DTPA– extractable Zn (0.71 mg kg-1) and DTPA– extractable Cu (0.31 mg kg-1). The experiment consisted of two factors each having four levels each of phosphorus (P0–0 kg P2O5 ha-1, P1–30 kg P2O5 ha-1, P2–60 kg P2O5 ha-1 and P3–90 kg P2O5 ha-1) and zinc (Zn0–0 kg Zn ha-1, Zn1–2.5 kg Zn ha-1, Zn2–5.0 kg Zn ha-1 and Zn3–7.5 kg Zn ha-1). Total sixteen treatment combinations were laid out in randomized block design with factorial concept and replicated three times. The results revealed that application of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 (P3) and 7.5 kg Zn ha-1 recorded significantly the higher no. of effective tillers/plant, length of ear head, no. of spikelets per ear head and grain and straw yields; which was found at par with 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 5.0 kg Zn ha-1. Thus, application of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 + 7.5 kg Zn ha-1 in wheat were optimum doses for obtaining higher productivity, growth parameters.

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Parasitic Lice in Tibetan Yaks, Pigs and Sheep.

The infestation of ectoparasites poses a severe problem in animal breeding, severely affecting animal health and causing substantial economic losses. However, limited information is available regarding lice infestations in plateau livestock. To address this, we collected and examined lice samples from Tibetan yaks, pigs and sheep, amplifying the rrnS and cox1 genes for evolutionary analysis. The results revealed that the prevalence of lice was 51.3% (95% CI: 44.0-58.6%) in yaks, Tibetan sheep and Tibetan pigs, with regional prevalence ranging from 7.7% to 67.5%. Morphometric analysis showed that female lice were bigger than male lice. In Tibetan pigs, females exhibited a prominent longer body length (p < 0.05), belly length (p < 0.01) and body length to body width ratio (p < 0.05). In yaks, females had longer body length (p < 0.01) and body width (p < 0.05). For Tibetan sheep, female lice had larger body length (p < 0.001), body width (p < 0.001), head length (p < 0.05) and belly length (p < 0.05). Additionally, molecular identification revealed that lice infesting wild and domestic yaks were Linognathus vituli with 96.59-98.78% (wild yaks) and 96.33-98.71% (yaks) similarity to the OL677823.1 isolate. Lice infesting Tibetan sheep were identified as Linognathus africanus, showing 99.02-99.76% similarity to the OP948898.1 isolate. Lice from Tibetan pigs were identified as Haematopinus apri, with 96.38-98.31% similarity to the ON000922.1 isolate. Moreover, cox1 gene analysis of lice from Tibetan pigs showed 96.97-97.72% similarity to the KC814616.1 isolate. It is concluded that these findings could provide valuable insights into the prevention and control of lice-related diseases in plateau animals, enhancing animal health and mitigating economic losses.

Varanid Teeth Asymmetry and Correlation to Body Size.

Stressors such as injuries, embryonic instability during development, and higher levels of stress hormones such as testosterone can result in increases in fluctuating asymmetry in reptiles and other vertebrates. Digit asymmetry, digit ratio variability, and skull trait asymmetry such as eye and jaw size have been correlated with stress level in both snakes and lizards. Teeth asymmetry has also been used as a biomarker for stress and brain laterality. Body size is correlated with many potential stressors, yet there has been little research on how body size in reptiles relates to asymmetry. We investigate teeth asymmetry within the lizard family Varanidae, a clade with a diverse range of sizes consisting of the largest living lizard, Varanus komodoensis. Using a landmark/semi-landmark analysis, we derived Centroid Size for 671 pairs of teeth from 13 varanid species, and asymmetry was derived for each pair. Right-biased asymmetry was significantly greater in the upper tooth row, but breaking up tooth positions into further sections did not yield a significant difference. We found a significant positive linear correlation between body size and right-biased teeth directional asymmetry within Varanus, but only when excluding V. komodoensis. This significant correlation may result from fewer potential predators and more potential food items, thus resulting in less overall stress. When analyzed separately, V. komodoensis individuals with <180 mm head length demonstrated a positive, yet non-significant, trend along a similar trajectory to their congenerics with a high goodness of fit. On the other hand, individuals > 180 mm showed a high degree of scatter, with several specimens having pronounced left-biased asymmetry. We suspect that this dramatic change was due to a combination of ontogenetic niche shift, bigger home ranges, a greater susceptibility to negative anthropogenic influences, and/or a male bias in the bigger specimens sampled, but a larger sample size is required to determine if there is statistical significance in these intra-specific trends. Body asymmetry can reflect brain laterality, which may be a potential driver for the teeth asymmetry seen here.

Relative and Allometric Growth of Two Gerrids (Hemiptera: Gerridae)

Gerrids are ideal for studying relative growth and allometry since their nymphal phases are clearly defined. In order to assess and compare the relative growth and ontogenetic allometry, body measurements of Gerris spinolae and Limnometra fluviorum were examined in the present study. At each developmental stage (nymph to adult), an analysis of the link between total body length and various body parts, viz., head length, head width, antenna, rostrum, fore leg, mid leg, and hind leg was conducted. Majority of the measured structures in the current investigation displayed allometric growth, and changes in the proportions of many body components during growth were noted. The morphometric measurements (in mm) for G. spinolae from the first nymphal stage to adult with regard to total body length, head length, head width, antenna, rostrum, fore leg, mid leg and hind leg ranged from 2.87 to 13.23, 0.60 to 2.20, 0.80 to 2.30, 1.90 to 7.90, 1.20 to 3.47, 1.63 to 8.93, 2.97 to 19.30, 2.50 to 18.00, respectively. For L. fluviorum, they were 1.67 to 10.20, 0.43 to 1.53, 0.60 to 2.05, 1.30 to 7.20, 0.93 to 3.27, 1.10 to 7.20, 2.13 to 19.17, and 1.60 to 15.00. Amongst the legs in the case of both nymphs and adults for both the gerrid species, the mid leg was considered to be more in measurement. The rate of change was found to be high in head width (7.80 mm)and low in mid leg (0.40 mm) for G. spinolae, and high in head length and width too (7.40 mm) and low in mid leg (0.20 mm) for L. fluviorum. The coefficient of determination was maximum for rostrum (98.84 and 94.00 %), respectively, and minimum for antenna (89.66 %) in G. spinolae, and hind leg (71.61 %) in L. fluviorum. The results of this study showed that morphometric differentiation amplified during growth and indicated that a significant portion of the morphological changes that occurred in nymphs during ontogeny were connected to morphological adaptations to move from a juvenile to an adult state.

Morphometric Characterization of Oreochromis Species Habitating in Jipe Lake, Kenya

ABSTRACTLake Jipe, a shared resource at the Kenya‐Tanzania border, has experienced significant fish introductions impacting its fish diversity. Despite these changes, the variations in morphometric characters of fish in the lake have not been documented following the establishment of non‐native Oreochromis species. To address this, the present study assessed the morphological differences in Oreochromis niloticus, Oreochromis jipe and Oreochromis esculentus in Lake Jipe using morphometric traits to improve species identification for ease of fisheries management and conservation of the lake. These three species are known to share overlapping traits which makes their differentiation challenging. Using Image Analysis in ImageJ software version 1.54i and statistical analysis using R Version 4.3, the study hypothesized there were no significant differences in the morphometric characteristics of Oreochromis species in the lake. Welch's ANOVA revealed statistically significant correlations (p &lt; 0.05) consistent in all species, with standard length and dorsal having the highest degree of significant positive association with total length, r &gt; 0.8 across species. Correlations were weaker between total length and traits like caudal length (CL) and head length (HL), r &lt; 0.5. All species exhibited negative allometric growth pattern (b &lt; 3) suggesting faster growth in length than weight. This has important implications for fisheries management by guiding size‐based harvesting strategies for sustainability. PCA revealed two principal components, (PC1 = 75.8%, PC2 = 10.4%) which contributed significantly to the observed variance in TL with TW. This study discriminated the species with total body weight and total length being the most distinctive morphometric measurements. Cluster dendrograms displayed site‐specific species grouping with mixed groupings in the dendrograms indicative of potential hybridization events, especially where species distribution overlaps. This underscores the importance of further research to confirm species identity and potential admixture using genetic analyses. By refining the distinguishing traits, this study contributes to improved monitoring and management of Oreochromis fish populations in Lake Jipe.

Divergent developmental trajectories of body depth and head length among stickleback populations

Divergent developmental trajectories of body depth and head length among stickleback populations

Aspects of the biology and ecology of variable oystercatchers (Haematopus unicolor) on the east coast of North Auckland, New Zealand

Many aspects of the ecology of the endemic variable oystercatcher (Haematopus unicolor) have not been studied in detail. We colour-banded and monitored a population of the species in a study area between 36°S and 37°S on the east coast of the North Island, New Zealand. Monitoring was intensive during the breeding season from 1994/95 to 1998/99, during which time we gathered information on timing of breeding, chick growth, and productivity. We also recorded measurements of adult birds and eggs. Laying of first clutches was protracted and extended from early September to mid-December. Chicks fledged at lower weights than adults and with shorter total head length and wing, but with tarsus and mid-toe within the adult range. Productivity at four core breeding sites within our study area averaged 0.42 chicks fledged per pair per year. Juveniles commonly remained with their parents on their natal territory during their first winter. From 1999, monitoring was less intensive as we continued collecting data on dispersal, age at first breeding, survival, and pair-bond retention. Natal dispersal values ranged from 0–109 km, with most birds breeding within 60 km of their natal site. As with many oystercatcher species, maturity is delayed, and birds in our study area first bred at between 4 and 8 years of age. There was a high level of mate-fidelity, with one pair-bond lasting 16 consecutive years, but divorce was not uncommon. Once established on a territory, adults were highly sedentary. Annual survival rates of adults and pre-breeders were very high, and the local population had the capacity to grow by about 5% per year. Birds breeding at low-lying sites often lost nests to flooding, and this threat is almost certain to be exacerbated by ongoing climate change.

Blood, feathers, and eggs as bioindicators of selenium sources and their impact on DNA damage in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica).

Blood, feathers, and eggs as bioindicators of selenium sources and their impact on DNA damage in Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica).

Test system customization for genotyping the BMP-2 gene 4:28632407 A/G polymorphism in aquacultured rainbow trout

The application of genomic selection in rainbow trout breeding is becoming more feasible with the advent of recent advances in molecular genetics. However, there are significant challenges in the field of aquaculture, as genomic and marker-assisted selection programmes for aquaculture are considerably behind those for terrestrial farm animals. Currently, there is an actual task to develop test systems for genotyping rainbow trout and for efficient enrichment of target populations with favourable polymorphisms. The objective of this study is to develop a test system based on the promising BMP-2 gene and to establish genomic associations between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and the size-weight characteristics of fish.Materials and methods. The material for the study was comprised of Rofor rainbow trout specimens (n=200), which were evaluated for the following size-weight parameters: fish weight, body length to the end of the caudal fin, length to the end of the scales, head length, height, and body thickness.Results. The results of the study revealed that the overwhelming majority of fish (98 %) exhibited a heterozygous genotype (AG) while homozygous genotype AA was entirely absent from the sample. The analysis did not identify any notable correlations between size-weight parameters but a potential explanation for this could be the absence of the AA genotype within the population. Nevertheless, the test system was successfully developed and validated. The study of the influence of this polymorphism contributed to the knowledge of rainbow trout genetics. Further application of the developed test system in rainbow trout breeding programs is possible after conducting additional studies to identify economically useful genetic associations in larger samples of individuals.

Two-block Haircuts Combining a Uniform Layer Cut and a One-length Cut According to Head Region, Length, and Slice Line

Purpose: This study focuses on the two-block haircut, characterized by a uniform layer cut on top of the head and a one-length cut in the bottom of the head. The proposed haircut serves as a foundational reference by demonstrating its changes across three head areas, lengths, and slice lines. Methods: Based on the top golden medium point, golden point, and golden back medium point, the head was divided in to two part, and the upper part was named the top of head with lengths of 5, 20, and 25 cm and the lower part was named the bottom of head with lengths of 25, 20, and 15 cm. For the slice line, a parallel line was applied to the rear of the head and an A line, parallel line, and V line were applied to the side surface of the head. Results: The top of the head featured a uniform layer cut, with a rough texture and rounded shape, at a uniform length. At the bottom of the head with a one-length cut, smoothness, orderliness, and an angular shape were observed. The A line had longer hair extending toward the face line, creating a thin shape, while the parallel line had a flat shape. The V line featured a distinct round shape with shorter hair as it goes toward the face line. The two-block cuts appeared unconnected, giving them a sense of uniqueness, mystery, and freshness. Conclusion: A one-length cut creates smoothness and an angular shape, while a uniform layer cut achieved the same length with a rough texture. To smooth the connection line in a two-block haircut, it is essential to extend the hair and segment the head area down. When dividing the head area and selecting the length and slice line, it is necessary to do so according to head shape, face shape, hair quality, and the customer’s taste. It is possible to reduce the number of errors by correcting the combing from the root of the hair and standing in a frontal position when cutting rather than cutting it. The length of the haircut’s starting point is closely related to the final overall length and shape. These findings should be further investigated through research into three-block haircuts.

Barbodesklapanunggalensis, a new species of blind subterranean fish (Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae) from Klapanunggal karst area, West Java, Indonesia, with notes on its conservation.

Barbodesklapanunggalensis sp. nov. is described on the basis of two specimens collected from the subterranean cave system of Klapanunggal karst area, Bogor Regency, West Java Province, Java Island, Indonesia. The new species is unique among its congeners in completely lacking eyes, its ocular vestige being marked by an orbital concavity fully covered with skin, and with no orbital rim. It also differs distinctly from most species of Barbodes by having relatively long paired fins (pectoral fin 26.0-31.4% SL; pelvic fin 21.5-24.4% SL), the adpressed tips of each overlapping the basal area of the adjacent posterior (pelvic and anal, respectively) fins; and the presence of a short pelvic axillary scale with a rounded posterior margin. Barbodesklapanunggalensis sp. nov. is further distinguished from all congeners by the following combination of characters: head length 32.9-35.3% SL; pre-pectoral fin length 32.6-33.6% SL; pre-pelvic fin length 54.0-59.6% SL; anal-fin base length 9.7-11.8% SL; caudal peduncle depth 13.2-18.2% SL; completely nonpigmented body; and all fins with translucent interradial membranes and light cream to brownish rays. As reflected by its highly troglomorphic features, the new species is strictly adapted to cave habitats. Its small population size, coupled with a high level of potential threats to its known habitat, suggest that future conservation efforts will become necessary.

Comparative in vitro study of a new silicone mouth swab for soft tissue cleaning under wet and dry brushing conditions

The use of silicone mouth swabs for soft tissue cleaning in elderly care is significant as it offers a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining oral hygiene, particularly in patients with limited dexterity or cognitive impairments, thereby reducing the risk of oral infections and improving overall health. This study aimed to compare the pseudo-plaque cleaning efficiency of a newly designed silicone mouth swab with that of the existing MouthEze (MC3) under both wet and dry brushing conditions. A new silicone mouth swab was designed with both straight and threaded brushing bristles and a longer head length of 24.0 mm, compared to the MC3, which has only straight bristles and an 18.0 mm head. A pseudo-plaque, created by mixing 6.0 g of Thicken Up Clear food additive with 12.0 ml of water and food coloring, was spread onto a NISSIN dentoform silicone rubber sheet with a thickness of 2.0 mm. The MC3 silicone head (n = 12) and the new silicone head (n = 12) were attached to a V.P.2000 tooth brushing machine, operating at 75 rounds per minute with a force of 2.45 N, and each was used to brush the surface 25 times under both wet (n = 12) and dry (n = 12) conditions. The ImageJ program was used to analyze and quantify the area where the pseudo-plaque was removed after brushing. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to assess differences in pseudo-plaque removal between groups. The pseudo-plaque removal per head length of the new silicone mouth swab was significantly higher than that of the MC3 under both wet brushing (72.30 ± 10.21 mm2 vs. 53.69 ± 5.66 mm2, p < 0.05) and dry brushing conditions (66.82 ± 11.29 mm² vs. 53.33 ± 8.54 mm2, p < 0.05). The new silicone mouth swab with both straight and threaded brushing bristles and a longer head length was more effective in pseudo-plaque removal than the swab with only straight bristles and a shorter head.

Morphological Difference Analysis of Triplophysa strauchii from Different Geographical Populations in Xinjiang, China

Spotted stone loach (Triplophysa strauchii), a common fish species in Xinjiang, China, is ecologically pivotal within the local ecosystem; regrettably, human-induced factors like habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing have gravely imperiled its survival, and compounding this is the dearth of research on the morphological disparities among its geographically diverse populations. Thus, between April and October 2024, 198 specimens were procured from Sayram Lake, Khamusigou Reservoir, and Chaiwopu Lake using cage traps and gillnets; post-collection, an array of morphological metrics were meticulously measured, and then statistical methods such as one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), stepwise discriminant analysis, and cluster analysis were employed for comprehensive data interrogation. Findings show that, across all sampled populations, the mean values of the total length (X1), body length (X2), body height (X3), and body width (X4) of the Chaiwopu Lake population are significantly lower than those of the Sayram Lake population and the Khamusigou Reservoir population; except for head length, the Khamusigou Reservoir population has lower variability in other morphological traits compared to the others. Moreover, significant divergences were detected in multiple trait ratios among the populations; PCA yielded five principal components, cumulatively accounting for 77.45% of the total variance, spotlighting the key ratios; discriminant analysis further validated highly significant morphological distinctions (p &lt; 0.01), with the Khamusigou Reservoir population having the highest discriminant accuracy; cluster analysis graphically showed the Sayram Lake and Chaiwopu Lake populations clustering together while the Khamusigou Reservoir population formed a separate cluster; and the Chaiwopu Lake population had the most pronounced divergence in morphological traits. This research not only provides novel perspectives on the adaptive evolutionary mechanisms of T. strauchii but also serves as a cornerstone for formulating evidence-based conservation and management strategies for this species.