Small Horn Research Articles

Expression, Polymorphism, and Potential Functional Sites of the BMPR1A Gene in the Sheep Horn.

Sheep horns are composed of bone and sheaths, and the BMPR1A gene is required for cartilage and osteogenic differentiation. Therefore, the BMPR1A gene may have a function related to the sheep horn, but its relationship with the sheep horn remains unclear. In this study, we first utilized RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data to investigate the expression of the BMPR1A gene in different tissues and breeds of sheep. Second, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data were used to explore the functional sites of the BMPR1A gene. Lastly, the allele-specific expression of the BMPR1A gene was explored. Our results indicate that BMPR1A gene expression is significantly higher in the normal horn groups than in the scurred groups. Importantly, this trend is consistent across several sheep breeds. Therefore, this finding suggests that the BMPR1A gene may be related to horn type. A total of 43 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) (F-statistics > 0.15) and 10 allele-specific expressions (ASEs) exhibited difference between the large and small horn populations. It is probable that these sites significantly impact the size of sheep horns. Compared to other polled species, we discovered ten amino acid sites that could influence horn presence. By combining RNA-seq and WGS functional loci results, we identified a functional site at position 40574836 on chromosome 25 that is both an SNP and exhibits allele-specific expression. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the BMPR1A gene is associated with horn type and identified some important functional sites which can be used as molecular markers in the breeding of sheep horns.

The first record of the genus Prosantorhinus (Perissodactyla: Rhinocerotidae) of East Asia

Abstract Prosantorhinus is a genus of small extinct teleoceratine rhinoceroses with shortened limb bones, widely distributed in Europe. However, the Asian evolution of the teleoceratine Prosantorhinus has remained unclear because of a scarcity of fossil records of the genus. Here, we report the first record of Prosantorhinus in East Asia from the Middle Miocene of Tongxin, Ningxia. The new specimen is characterized by a concave dorsal skull profile and elevated nasals; short and stout nasal bones with drooping margins on both sides; the thickened, enlarged, and roughened nasal extremity supporting a small horn; the semi-molarized upper premolars with a lingual bridge between the protocone and hypocone; the metaloph constriction present on P2–4; the protocone equal to the hypocone on P2; the crista present on P3; and the cement on the cheek teeth developed. With all the morphological evidence considered, we establish a new species, Prosantorhinus yei sp. nov.. A phylogenetic analysis based on 282 morphological characters scored for 36 taxa reveals that Prosantorhinus yei sp. nov. is a relatively derived taxon in the genus. We hypothesize that Prosantorhinus yei sp. nov. lived in relatively moist environments.

Genetic diversity, tissue-specific expression, and functional analysis of the ATP7A gene in sheep.

In humans, variation of the ATP7A gene may cause cranial exostosis, which is similar to "human horn," but the function of the ATP7A gene in sheep is still unknown. Tissue expression patterns and potential functional loci analysis of the ATP7A gene could help understand its function in sheep horn. In this study, we first identified tissue, sex, breed, and species-specific expression of the ATP7A gene in sheep based on the RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data. Second, the potential functional sites of the ATP7A gene were analyzed by using the whole genome sequencing (WGS) data of 99 sheep from 10 breeds. Last, the allele-specific expression of the ATP7A gene was explored. Our result showed the ATP7A gene has significantly higher expression in the big horn than in the small horn, and the ATP7A gene has high expression in the horn and skin, suggesting that this gene may be related to the horn. The PCA results show that the region around the ATP7A can distinguish horned and hornless groups to some extent, further indicating that the ATP7A may be related to horns. When compared with other species, we find seven ruminate specific amino acid sites of the ATP7A protein, which can be important to the ruminate horn. By analyzing WGS, we found 6 SNP sites with significant differences in frequency in horned and hornless populations, and most of these variants are present in the intron. But we still find some potential functional sites, including three missenses, three synonymous mutations, and four Indels. Finally, by combining the RNA-seq and WGS functional loci results, we find three mutations that showed allele-specific expression between big and small horns. This study shows that the ATP7A gene in sheep may be related to horn size, and several potential functional sites we identified here can be useful molecular markers for sheep horn breeding.

KARAKTERISTIK MORFOMETRIK KAMBING BOERKA PADA BERBAGAI TINGKATAN UMUR DI UPT. AGRI SCIENCE TECHNOPARK UNISLA

This study aims to identify the morphometric characteristics of male Boerka goats and female Boerka goats at different age levels as a basic step of selection in breeding and improving the genetic quality of goats. A total of 25 samples of Boerka goats, namely 10 male Boerka goats and 15 female Boerka goats were used to identify qualitative and qualitative traits at the age levels of 0-6 months, >6-12 months, and >12 months. The morphometric parameters observed consisted of qualitative characteristics, namely the diversity of coat colors, the diversity of horn shapes, the diversity of the color of the legs and the diversity of the front lines. While quantitative traits consist of body weight, height, body length, and chest circumference. The results of qualitative research found that Boerka goats had a dominant diversity of brown white fur color, short and small horns, black and white leg color, and a convex head shape. The average values ​​of body weight, height, body length, and chest circumference of male Boerka goats and female Boerka goats at various age levels were not significantly different except for chest circumference with age group > 12 months

Nonlinear and Load-Pulling Effects in an Octave-Bandwidth Transmit Array

This article presents the design and nonlinear analysis of an octave-bandwidth transmit in-phase power combiner feed network. The goal is to evaluate the effect of nonlinearities on the in-phase spatial power combiner figures of merit (FoMs), namely effective isotropically radiated power (EIRP), overall efficiency, and linearity across a wide bandwidth and as a function of active antenna impedance and power amplifier (PA) supply voltage ( <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$V_{\textrm {DD}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula> ). The analysis is showcased on a 6–12 GHz four-element array implemented with electrically small flared horns fed with microstrip-to ridge waveguide transitions, 2-W commercial gallium nitride (GaN) monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) amplifiers, and an in-phase Wilkinson power splitter. Over-the-air (OTA) measurements show an EIRP of 50 dBm over the octave bandwidth. Adjacent channel power ratio (ACPR) variation over frequency, power, and supply voltage is also measured through OTA and shows a variation of 10 dB over the considered variables.

Practical, Stereotactic, Low-Profile Technique for Transcortical/Transventricular Colloid Cyst Removal Independent of Ventricular Size: Technical Note and Analysis of Approaches.

In the presence of a dilated foramen of Monro, a transcortical, transforaminal approach is considered the safest and simplest approach for resection of colloid cysts. However, in the presence of small or normal frontal horns, numerous microsurgical approaches and, often complicated, variations have been described, invariably employing forms of stereotactic navigation. To report an alternative, accurate, microsurgical stereotactic low-profile technique. The small frontal horn is stereotactically targeted as previously described. Routine equipment is used to accurately create a novel, rigid, atraumatic surgical corridor. After a 7-mm corticotomy, a peel-away catheter carrying the AxiEM stylet engages the target set as the frontal horn. All joints of the endoscope holder are locked, allowing only catheter advancement (y axis) while lateral (x axis) or anteroposterior (z axis) movements are secure. Two, 7-mm retractor blades are inserted. The extremely consistent anatomy of the foramen of Monro allows en bloc microsurgical removal without unnecessary coagulation of cyst wall or choroid plexus. Despite a plethora of approaches to the rostral third ventricle, in the presence of normal or small frontal horns, including creation of transcallosal/interforniceal, suprachoroidal (or transchoroidal), and sub-choroidal, colloid cyst resection does not necessarily need to be convoluted. Technical nuances of an accurate, practical, minimally invasive technique are described.

Comparative metabolomic analysis of polyphenic horn development in the dung beetle Onthophagus taurus.

Organisms alter their phenotypes in response to changing environmental conditions. The developmental basis of this phenomenon, phenotypic plasticity, is a topic of broad interest in many fields of biology. While insects provide a suitable model for studying the genetic basis of phenotypic plasticity, the physiological aspects of plasticity are not fully understood. Here, we report the physiological basis of polyphenism, an extreme form of phenotypic plasticity by utilizing a dung beetle species, Onthophagus taurus. We highlighted the metabolome between sexes as well as two distinct male morphs—large and small horns. Unlike results from previous transcriptomic studies, the comparative metabolomic study revealed that differences in metabolite level were more prominent between animals with different body sizes than different sexes. Our results also indicate that specific metabolites and biochemical pathways may be active during horn size determination.

Identifikasi Sifat-Sifat Kualitatif Warna Bulu, Bentuk Tanduk, dan Bentuk Ekor pada Domba Priangan Betina di SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Kabupaten Subang

Qualitative trait is one of indicators of selection that can be used as a phenotypic character of a breed. There are many traits that are usually observed to include hair color, horn shape, and tail shape. The research about “Identification of Qualitative Traits of Hair Color, Horn Shape, and Tail Shape of Priangan Ewes in SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency” was conducted to determine the qualitive traits of Priangan Ewes in SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency. The research conducted for ten days from January 6 st 2020 to January 17 st 2020. The method used in this research was survey and data collections were conducted by census method to look at the parameters of hair color, horn shape, and tail shape of Priangan Ewe in SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency. The results showed that Priangan Ewes in SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency were dominated by white hair color (81,82%), combination hair color (13,64%), black hair color (4,54%), and brown Priangan Ewe was not found (0%). The horn shapes of Priangan Ewe in SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency were dominated by unhorn (68,18%), muser (27,27%), and small horn (4,54%). The tail shapes of Priangan Ewe in SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency were dominated by tail shape ngabuntut beurit (86,36%) and ngabuntut bagong (13,64%). In conclusion, SP3TDK Tambak Mekar Subang Regency has Priangan Ewes with the majority qualitative traits of white hair color, unhorn, and ngabuntut beurit .

A row of nodules on the right side of the face

A row of nodules on the right side of the face

Zoomorphic Images of the BII Stage Trypillia Settlements in the Middle Buh River Region

Widely known in Trypillia archaeological culture various zoomorphic images clearly represent multisided spiritual world of farmers of Eneolithic period, in particular the spread of domestic animals cult. While retaining common features of zoomorphism throughout the whole range of Trypillia, from the early to later stages, there are certain distinctive features for each region and time of existence. Their study allows us to understand the peculiarities of formation and development of the animal image, manners and styles of its performance. It is important to study the embodiments of the animal image in various types of archaeological materials of Trypillia settlements of the Middle Buh River region at BII stage (plastics, pottery, dwelling models) and determine the territorial and temporal features in comparison with other areas of the Trypillia spread. At the settlements of Voroshylivka, Sosny, Selyshche, Nemyriv and Karolina, the most found plastic items are statuettes of domestic animals, which were made in realistic or stylistic manners. Small and medium-sized figurines, which are classified as bovidae/ovis, dominate here. They had paired legs, small horns and a tail. Sometimes an udder or a penis was imitated, indicating the sex of the animal (cow, bull). Of particular interest are the statuettes and zoomorphic bowls, which had cross holes in their coupled legs. It is possible that they were supplemented with wheels and used in rituals as movable figurines. Common are zoomorphic bowls on four legs with a horned head and a tail on rims, as well as peculiar oval or rectangular bowls on four legs, reminiscent of cattle feeding troughs. They were painted in a zoomorphic ornament, resembling the spine or fur of an animal. It is important to note that no “dog”, “deer” or “bird” ornaments, known in other regions of the Trypillia culture, have been found on the tableware of the Middle Buh local group. There are also zoomorphic features on the cooking ware. The pots had four legs on the bottoms, and small horned heads were stuck on the rims. The zoomorphism can be traced on a well-known dwelling model from Voroshylivka, where the roof timbers above the front and back walls are designed like the horns of a domestic animal. Considering that the model had four high legs, it is reasonable to assume that it could have been used in rituals honoring the dwelling and livestock. The comprehensive analysis of zoomorphic images from the settlements of the Trypillia BII stage of the Middle Buh local group showed some regional differences as well as general trends in the development of ideological views of the ancient agricultural population of the Right-Bank Ukraine. The image of animals, especially cattle, deeply penetrated into consciousness of the holders of Trypillia culture, and the cult of the horned bull became one of the leading in their ideology.

HIPPOLYTUS OF ROME: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF THE INTERPRETATION OF DAN. 8

The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the interpretation of Hippolytus of Rome (170-235 AD) of Dan. 8 of the book of Daniel. The hermeneutic principles of the theologian in the interpretation of apocalyptic symbols of Dan. 8 are presented and showed their specifics. It has been found that Hippolytus first interpreted the symbol of the "little horn" (Dan. 8:9-12) as Antiochus IV Epiphanes among early Christian writers. This interpretation is followed today by the Preterist and Futurist schools of interpretation. The arguments of both the supporters of Hippolytus' interpretation and his opponents are highlighted. It is established that the theologian's interpretation, according to which the small horn in Dan. 8 symbolizes Antiochus Epiphanes has weaknesses and contradicts the biblical context of the apocalyptic symbols of both the eighth chapter and the entire book of Daniel. It is investigated that the arguments of the historicistl school allow us to conclude that the small horn in Dan. 8 symbolizes Rome. Promising for the future continuation of the study is seen in a deep exegetical study of the apocalyptic symbols of Dan. 8 and the influence of Hippolytus' interpretation on the hermeneutics of later Christian theologians.Key words: Book of Daniel, Hippolytus of Rome, hermeneutics, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the small horn, exegesis, apocalyptic literature, eschatology.

Abstract 2905: The relationship between peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer &amp; exosome

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, studies of exosomes have progressed rapidly, suggesting a connection to various physiological functions and pathogenesis. The exosomes are small extracellular vesicles with a diameter of 30 to 100 nm surrounded by lipid bilayers, and are attracting attention as a new cell-cell communication medium for carrying lipids, proteins, RNA, etc. in vivo. In addition, in exosomes released by cancer cells, it contains a large number of molecules related to angiogenesis and immunosuppression. It is believed to contribute to building microenvironments suitable for cancer cell growth and promoting cancer progression. Therefore, we focused on exosomes derived from gastric cancer cells, the action of gastric cancer cells, further constructed a gastric cancer peritoneal dissemination mouse model, the action of exosomes in gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis mechanism was examined in vitro, in vivo, respectively. Method: Exosome Isolation Kit was used to extract exosomes from each gastric cancer cell line MKN-1, MKN-45, MKN-45 GFP. The determination of exosomes was carried out using Nano-drop®. Cell adhesion in exosome-treated and non-administered groups were analyzed by colony forming assay. Cell proliferation ability was analyzed using cell proliferation assay method. In vivo, we examined whether the degree of peritoneal dissemination was made using live cell imaging using fluorescent cells. MKN-45 GFP was intraperitoneally administered to BALB/c-nu mice. On days 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, groups were prepared in which 25 µg/500 µl of exosome was administered intraperitoneally and groups in which the same amount of PBS was administered intraperitoneally. In addition, MKN-45 GFP was subcutaneously injected into BALB/c-nu mice to create MKN-45 GFP tumors, which were divided into small horns and transplanted to the stomach walls of BALB/c-nu mice. In the same way as the previous method, we prepared a group in which 25 µg/500 µl exosome was intraperitoneally administered on days 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and a group in which the same amount of PBS was intraperitoneally administered. We performed a visual comparison of transplanted cancer cells and peritoneal dissemination of cancer. Results and Discussion: The results of the colony forming assay method suggest that exosomes derived from gastric cancer cells have the effect of promoting colony formation ability of cancer cells. We evaluate the results of peritoneal seeding model mice in this study, and further proceed with the analysis of miRNA extraction and analysis from exosomes derived from gastric cancer cells, and cell adhesion of cancer cells under high concentrations of exosomes. Citation Format: Kazuya Kinoshita. The relationship between peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer &amp; exosome [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 2905.

Morphogenesis and formation of the human hyoid bone

Background. Morphogenesis of hyoid bone in early intrauterine development of human is a topical question of anatomical research that is aimed to improve methods of surgical interventions in neck and mandible regions and to supplement data in forensic practice. Objective. To investigate peculiarities of development and morphological transformations of hyoid bone in the early period of human ontogenesis. Methods. 15 specimens of human embryos and prefetuses of 12,0-80,0 mm parietal-coccygeal length (PCL) were investigated by using a set of morphological methods. Results. In human embryos 12,0-13,5 mm PCL, rudiment of hyoid bone is seen as s mesenchymal condensation in second pharyngeal arch area above the level of cervical sinus. In 13,0-13,5 mm PCL embryos, hyoid bone anlage is on prechondrification stage: caudal segment of Reichert’s cartilage forms small horns and mesodermal condensation of III pharyngeal arch forms large horns and body of hyoid. In 50,0-80,0 mm PCL human prefetuses, hyoid part of Reichert’s cartilage, which forms small horns, reaches chondrification stage. The body and large horns of hyoid are connected to small horns, and are found lower the level of tongue anlage. At this stage hyoid bone is an attachment site for the hyoid neck muscles. Conclusions. 1. Rudiment of the hyoid bone is found at the end of embryonic period as a prechondrificational mesenchymal condensation of II and III pharyngeal arches 2. During prefetal period, small horns loose contact with the cranial part of Reichert’s cartilage. 3. Anlage of the hyoid bone during prefetal period is on chondrification stage and is a site of attachment for supra- and infrahyoid muscles.

The role of the multi-spiral computer tomography in the evaluation of anatomical characteristics of the styloid process of the temporal bone

There are a number of publications in the literature that describe osteometric measurements of the styloid process of the temporal bone. Most studies are based on the results of direct measurements of bone preparations of the skulls; however, modern radiation research allows you to get a complete picture of the shape, relative position with other anatomical structures. Obtained results are rare. The purpose of the study was to present the results of measurements of the styloid process of the temporal bone and its relationships with other parts of the stylo-hyoidal complex obtained by analyzing images of multi-spiral computed tomography in patients without pathology of this anatomical zone. The length and width of the process, the distance to the small horn of the hyoid bone, and the height and weight of patients depending on age were measured. It has been established that multi-spiral computed tomography is an accurate method for determining the parameters of the styloid process. No statistically significant relationships between the anatomical parameters of the styloid process, other elements of the stylo-hyoidal complex, gender, height and age of the examined patients were found.

Revision of the Eocene ‘Platyrhina’ species from the Bolca Lagerstätte (Italy) reveals the first panray (Batomorphii: Zanobatidae) in the fossil record

The fossil-Lagerstätte of Bolca (Italy) is well known for the diversity and exquisite preservation of its bony and cartilaginous fishes documenting tropical shallow-water marine environments associated with coral reefs in the western Tethys during the early Eocene. In this study, the taxonomic, systematic and phylogenetic position of two batoid species traditionally assigned to the living thornback ray genus Platyrhina is re-evaluated. †Platyrhina bolcensis Heckel, 1851 is recognized as a separate species of the Platyrhinidae because of its plate-like antorbital cartilage with an irregular outline and a small horn on the nasal capsules. Also, the rostral cartilage does not reach the anterior border of the disc. Support for the placement of this species within the new genus †Eoplatyrhina gen. nov. is based on a combination of morphological and meristic features (e.g. nasal capsules at right angles to the rostrum; large space between the hyomandibulae and mandibular arch; approximately 132 vertebral centra; 15–16 rib pairs; 81–87 pectoral radials; 18–21 pelvic radials; short, straight and stout claspers; 40–50 caudal-fin radials; thorns absent). A second species, †Platyrhina egertoni (De Zigno, 1876), is more closely related to the living panray Zanobatus than Platyrhina and is assigned here to †Plesiozanobatus gen. nov. because of a combination of characters that support its placement within the family Zanobatidae (tail stout and short, distinctly demarcated from disc; two dorsal fins and complete caudal fin; small dermal denticles and scattered thorns covering disc and tail; rostral cartilage absent; nasal capsules without horn-like processes; mesopterygium absent). The systematic position of a third taxon, †Platyrhina gigantea (Blainville, 1818), is currently impossible to establish due to the poor preservation of the only known specimen, and therefore we propose to consider it a nomen dubium. Palaeoecological and biogeographic features of the Eocene platyrhinids and zanobatids from Bolca are also discussed.http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:B4C7A979-7972-409B-B489-A6DDD5E35FE5

Identifikasi Morfologi dan Perilaku Makan Kambing Marica yang Dipelihara di Luar Habitat

Abstract. This research is a descriptive study that aims to determine the morphological characteristics of Marica goats. That are kept outside the habitat. Observation of morphological characteristics and eating activities using 2 goats (1 male and 1 female). This research was conducted at the Biology Experiment Garden in Makassar State University. The results obtained by Marica Goat have a relatively small body dimensions, upright ears and relatively small short, short and small horns and look agile and aggressive and Marica goats during the day (09.00-16.00) do more eating activities. Keywords: Marica Goat, morphological characteristicsm and eating activities.

1655 Laparoscopic Unification of Non Communicating Horn with Hemi-Uterus

Video Objective To demonstrate new idea of laparoscopic unification of functional non – communicating horn with hemi-uterus instead of removal to improve obstetric outcome in future. Setting an academic tertiary care hospital. A 14-year-old girl presented with complaints of pain in lower abdomen, on and off for 2 months. Her previous 2 cycles were regular; she had cyclic dysmenorrhoea since her menarche which was now become intolerable and continuous. Secondary sexual characteristic was normal. hormone profile normal and on local examination normal external genitalia found. A thin dilator passed into vagina to confirm patent vagina. ultrasound suggested a unicornuate hemi uterus and right non communicating horn with a turbid collection. MRI also confirm the same. Interventions On Hysteroscopy a small right uterine cavity with only one ostium on right. Cervical canal was normal with normal crypts. vagina also normal and spacious. On diagnostic laparoscopy: A unicornuate right hemi- uterus with a non-communicating left horn was noted on the right side of the round ligament, tube and ovary were seen normal with small hemi-uterus. On the left, small uterine horn seen with absent tube but normal ovary and round ligament attachment. First, we were planned resection of non-communicating horn as described in literature but after assessing the anatomical proximity and good size of horn and small size of hemi-uterus we decided for unification of both. After injecting diluted inj. vasopressin, linear medial incision given in full thickness of myometrium with monopolar energy and opening the cavity with scissors. Both the walls sutured together first posteriorly and then anteriorly in double layer with no. 1 polyglactin 910 suture. Conclusion Good normal size, shape and contour of uterus appreciated after completion of procedure. After surgery patient had one normal menses without any pain suggest success of surgery.

Using Low Temperature, Cost-effective and Green Methods to Carbon Nanohorn Synthesis

Background: Laser ablation method has high-yield and pure SWCNHs. On the other hand, arc discharge methods have low-cost production of SWCNHs. However, these techniques have more desirable features, they need special expertness to use high power laser or high current discharge that either of them produces very high temperature. As for the researches, the temperatures of these techniques are higher than 4727°C to vaporize the graphite. So, to become aware of the advantages of SWCNHs, it is necessary to find a new way to synthesize SWCNHs at a lower temperature. In other words, reaction field can be expandable at a moderate temperature. This paper reports a new way to synthesize SWCNHs at an extremely reduced temperature. Methods: According to this study, the role of N2 is the protection of the copper holder supporting the graphite rod by increasing heat transfer from the holder. After the current of 70 A was supplied to the system, the temperature of graphite rod was raised to 1600°C. It is obvious that this temperature is somehow higher than the melting point of palladium, 1555°C, and much lower than graphite melting point, 3497°C. Results: Based on the results, there are transitional precursors simultaneous with the SWCNHs. This composition can be created by distortion of the primary SWCNTs at the higher temperature. Subsequently, each SWCNTs have a tendency to be broken into individual horns. With increasing the concentration of the free horns, bud-like SWCNHs can be produced. Moreover, there are individual horns almost separated from the mass of single wall carbon nanohorns. This structure is not common in SWCNHs synthesized by the usual method such as arc discharge or laser ablation. Through these regular techniques, SWCNHs are synthesized as cumulative particles with diameters about 30-150 nm. Conclusion: A simple heating is needed for SWCNTs transformation to SWCNHs with the presence of palladium as catalyst. The well-thought-out mechanism for this transformation is that SWCNTs were initially changed to highly curled shape, and after that were formed into small independent horns. The other rout to synthesize SWCNHs is the pyrolysis of palm olein at 950°C with the assistance of zinc nitrate and ferrocene. Palm olein was used as a promising, bio-renewable and inexpensive carbon source for the production of carbon nanohorns.

A story of nasal horns: two new subspecies of Iguana Laurenti, 1768 (Squamata, Iguanidae) in Saint Lucia, St Vincent amp; the Grenadines, and Grenada (southern Lesser Antilles).

The Lesser Antilles, in the Eastern Caribbean, were long considered to have only two species in the genus Iguana Laurenti 1768: the Lesser Antillean iguana Iguana delicatissima, which is endemic to parts of the Lesser Antilles, and the Common green iguana Iguana iguana, which also occurs throughout Central and South America. No subspecies are currently recognised. However, herpetologists and reptile collectors have pointed out strong physical differences between some of the island populations of Iguana iguana and those from the continent. Drawing on both morphological and genetic data, this paper describes two subspecies of the Common green iguana Iguana iguana from the southern Lesser Antilles, specifically the countries of Saint Lucia Iguana iguana sanctaluciae and Iguana iguana insularis from St Vincent the Grenadines, and Grenada. The form on the island of Saint Vincent has not been identified. The new subspecies are described based on the following unique combination of characters: Presence of high median and medium to small lateral horns on the snout; Small subtympanic plate not exceeding 20% of the eardrum size; Two or three scales of decreasing size anterior to the subtympanic plate; Fewer than ten small to medium triangular gular spikes; Medium sized dewlap; Low number of small to medium dispersed nuchal tubercles; Dark brown iris, with the white of the eye visible; Oval, prominent nostril; Short and relatively flat head; High dorsal spines; No swelling of the jowls in reproductively active males. Iguana iguana sanctaluciae has in adults vertical black stripes on body and tail and a black dewlap whereas Iguana iguana insularis is pale grey or creamy white in adults. Both subspecies are globally threatened by unsustainable hunting (including the pet trade) and by invasive alien species, including hybridization from invasive iguanas from South and Central America (I. iguana iguana and I. rhinolopha, considered here as full species) that have become established in all three countries. The authors call for stronger measures to conserve the remaining purebred Iguana i. insularis and Iguana i. sanctaluciae ssp. nov. throughout their ranges and for further research to identify other cryptic species and subspecies of Iguana in the Lesser Antilles.

A new ‘horned' Stenocercus from the highlands of southeastern Brazil, and redescription of Stenocercus tricristatus (Reptilia: Tropiduridae)

A new species of the lizard genus Stenocercus Duméril &amp;amp; Bibron, 1837 is described based on six specimens from Serra da Canastra, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Similar to S.tricristatus (Duméril, 1851), S.dumerilii (Steindachner, 1867), S.quinarius Nogueira &amp;amp; Rodrigues, 2006, and S.squarrosus Nogueira &amp;amp; Rodrigues, 2006, the new species has a pyramidal head and an enlarged, dorsally projected post-supraciliary scale, like a small horn. It is most similar to S.tricristatus, from which it differs in having a more elongated head in ventral view; a larger number of scales around midbody; a distinctly enlarged, smooth preauricular scale; and probably a larger body size. Moreover, the new species has distinctly keeled scales, with phylloid and mucronate dorsals; no enlarged supraoculars; no neck folds; a vertebral, and a pair of dorsolateral and (weak) lateral crests. A redescription of S.tricristatus is presented for comparison with the new species.