Phallus eversion sexing in Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines: Chelidae): a new non-invasive approach / Sexagem por eversão do falo em Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines: Chelidae): uma nova abordagem não invasiva

Abstract The sexing of species is an important tool for population management. In tortoises and turtles, sexing is usually done according to secondary characteristics, such as plastron morphology or phallus eversion techniques. In this paper, we present the phallus eversion method and compare its efficiency to other existing techniques. This new method aims at shortening the management time and reducing the physical aftereffects on the animals, fostering the clinical and reproductive management of Geoffroy's side-necked turtle (Phrynops geoffroanus) and related species. A sample of fifty individuals was taken in the central region of Piauí state, Northeastern Brazil. The proposed method consisted of moving the head from its resting position. The methods achieving a success rate higher than 80% were compared to each other as for the stimulation time required for phallus eversion. The method as here proposed achieved 100% efficiency in the sex determination of specimens with a linear carapace length between 10 and 34 cm. Also, when compared to the second most efficient method, it substantially reduced the time needed for managing the specimens (91%), avoiding possible sequelae in the individuals handled.

Resumo A sexagem das espécies é uma ferramenta importante para o manejo populacional. Em tartarugas, cágados e jabutis, a sexagem geralmente é feita de acordo com características secundárias, como morfologia do plastrão ou técnicas de eversão do falo. Neste artigo, apresentamos o método de eversão do falo e comparamos sua eficiência com outras técnicas existentes. Este novo método visa encurtar o tempo de manejo e reduzir os efeitos colaterais físicos nos animais, promovendo o manejo clínico e reprodutivo do cágado-de-barbicha (Phrynops geoffroanus) e espécies relacionadas. Uma amostra de cinquenta indivíduos foi coletada na região central do estado do Piauí, Nordeste do Brasil. O método proposto consiste em remover a cabeça de sua posição de repouso. Os métodos que obtiveram índice de sucesso superior a 80% foram comparados entre si quanto ao tempo de estimulação necessário para a eversão do falo. O método aqui proposto alcançou 100% de eficiência na determinação do sexo de espécimes com comprimento de carapaça linear entre 10 e 34 cm. Além disso, quando comparado ao segundo método mais eficiente, reduziu substancialmente o tempo necessário para o manejo dos espécimes (91%), evitando possíveis sequelas nos indivíduos manuseados.

Phallus eversion sexing in Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines: Chelidae): a new non-invasive approach

Abstract The sexing of species is an important tool for population management. In tortoises and turtles, sexing is usually done according to secondary characteristics, such as plastron morphology or phallus eversion techniques. In this paper, we present the phallus eversion method and compare its efficiency to other existing techniques. This new method aims at shortening the management time and reducing the physical aftereffects on the animals, fostering the clinical and reproductive management of Geoffroys side-necked turtle (Phrynops geoffroanus) and related species. A sample of fifty individuals was taken in the central region of Piauí state, Northeastern Brazil. The proposed method consisted of moving the head from its resting position. The methods achieving a success rate higher than 80% were compared to each other as for the stimulation time required for phallus eversion. The method as here proposed achieved 100% efficiency in the sex determination of specimens with a linear carapace length between 10 and 34 cm. Also, when compared to the second most efficient method, it substantially reduced the time needed for managing the specimens (91%), avoiding possible sequelae in the individuals handled.

Resumo A sexagem das espécies é uma ferramenta importante para o manejo populacional. Em tartarugas, cágados e jabutis, a sexagem geralmente é feita de acordo com características secundárias, como morfologia do plastrão ou técnicas de eversão do falo. Neste artigo, apresentamos o método de eversão do falo e comparamos sua eficiência com outras técnicas existentes. Este novo método visa encurtar o tempo de manejo e reduzir os efeitos colaterais físicos nos animais, promovendo o manejo clínico e reprodutivo do cágado-de-barbicha (Phrynops geoffroanus) e espécies relacionadas. Uma amostra de cinquenta indivíduos foi coletada na região central do estado do Piauí, Nordeste do Brasil. O método proposto consiste em remover a cabeça de sua posição de repouso. Os métodos que obtiveram índice de sucesso superior a 80% foram comparados entre si quanto ao tempo de estimulação necessário para a eversão do falo. O método aqui proposto alcançou 100% de eficiência na determinação do sexo de espécimes com comprimento de carapaça linear entre 10 e 34 cm. Além disso, quando comparado ao segundo método mais eficiente, reduziu substancialmente o tempo necessário para o manejo dos espécimes (91%), evitando possíveis sequelas nos indivíduos manuseados.

Anterior Teeth Measurement among Subjects in the University of Port Harcourt as a Sex Indicator and Aid to Maxillofacial Reconstruction

Background: The aim of this study is to determine sexual dimorphism using anterior teeth measurements and its use as an ancillary tool for sexual determination. Methods:In this study, the measurements of the anterior teeth were carried out on one hundred and forty students (80M: 60F) of the University of Port-Harcourt ranging from 15-30 years. The mesiodistal diameter of the central and lateral incisors, right and left canines and their inter-canine distance were measured. These measurements were done with the aid ofa digital Vernier caliper. Also, the percentages of sexual dimorphism were calculated. The values were subjected to statistical analysis.Results:The mean mesiodistal central incisor (MDCI) value for males was 9.78 ± 0.47mm while that of the females was 9.29±0.46mm. The mean mesiodistal lateral incisor (MDLI) value for males was 7.80 ±0.54mm while that of the females was 7.40±0.54mm. The mean mesiodistal right canine (MDRC) value for males was 7.43±0.49mm while that of the females was 7.04±0.40mm. The mean mesiodistal left canine (MDLI) value for males was 7.39±0.51mm while that of the females was 7.03±0.55mm. The mean mandibular inter-canine distance (MICD) value for males was 33.73±1.15mm while that of the females was 32.23±0.98mm. They were all statistically significantat p<0.05.Conclusion:It can be concluded that the incisors and the canines are useful tools in sex determination. The data obtained can be useful in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery

Sexual Dimorphism in Mechanical Hypersensitivity Induced by Subcutaneous Injection of M-CSF / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate whether there exists gender differences in mechanical pain hypersensitivity induced by the subcutaneous injection of macrophage colony-stimulating factor （M-CSF） in normal mice and to explore the preliminary mechanism. MethodsThirty 10-week-old C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into three groups， (n = 10 mice/group, half male and half female). The albumin control group （BSA， 0.3 μg）， low dose M-CSF group （L M-CSF， 0.075 μg） and high dose M-CSF group （H M-CSF， 0.3 μg） received 50 μL BSA or M-CSF injected subcutaneously into the left medial thigh once daily for 3 consecutive days. Before and after drug administration， von-Frey mechanical sensitivity test was used to detect the mechanical paw withdrawal threshold （PWT） in each group. Immunofluorescence was performed to examine the expression changes of Ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) in skin， calcitonin gene-related peptide （CGRP） and phosphorylated ERK1/2 （p-ERK） in L5-L6 DRG and lumbar spinal dorsal horn. ResultsIn female mice， only high dose of M-CSF caused mechanical allodynia， whereas in male mice both doses produced marked allodynia. Mechanically， high-dose M-CSF induced massive aggregation of subcutaneous macrophages （marked by Iba1） in male and female mice， but more dramatic dependence in female mice. Similar gender differences were also found in the increase of p-ERK and CGRP expression in dorsal root ganglion （DRGs）. Notably， CGRP expression was especially elevated in the fibers of DRG in male mice. Correspondingly， the expressions of p-ERK and CGRP+ terminals in the superficial spinal dorsal horn of male mice were significantly higher than those of female mice after M-CSF treatment. ConclusionSubcutaneous injection of M-CSF triggers sexual dimorphism in mechanical pain hypersensitivity, which is related with differential changes in peripheral macrophage expansion and sensitization of the nociceptive pathway.

Productividad y curvas de crecimiento usando modelos no lineales en un cruce de ovino de pelo colombiano x pelibuey

Los ovinos criollos de pelo (OCP) desarrollaron ventajas adaptativas al climática tropical, que le permiten tener resistencia a enfermedades, alta fertilidad y prolificidad; sin embargo, se reportan pocas investigaciones sobre la productividad de los OCP en sistemas asociados al cultivo de la caña, lo que hace necesario realizar investigaciones, que permitan fomentar sus atributos. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue analizar la productividad y el desarrollo corporal de un cruce de OCP, mediante parámetros productivos y curvas de crecimiento. Se utilizaron 180 animales de partos simples y múltiples; se registró el peso al nacimiento (PN), al destete (PD), a los 210 días (PAJ210) y las ganancias diarias predestete (GDPRE) y posdestete (GDPOS). Los datos, se analizaron mediante estadística descriptiva, con un GLM, con los efectos sexo (S), tipo de nacimiento (TN), número de partos (NP) y época de nacimiento (EPONAC). Se emplearon los modelos no lineales Gompertz, Logístico, Brody, Richards y Von Bertalanffy, en 1.455 registros de pesos, a diferentes edades, para realizar las curvas de crecimiento. Los análisis, se efectuaron con el paquete estadístico SAS. Se consideraron los coeficientes R2, AIC y BIC, obtenidos por el método de Gauss-Newton, para seleccionar el modelo de mejor ajuste. Los machos presentaron mayores promedios en las variables PN, PD, PAJ210 y GDPOS. El TN afectó todas las variables; el PN y las GDPOS fueron afectadas por el NP y, la EPONAC, afectó PN, las GDPRE, el PAJ210 y las GDPOS. El modelo de mejor ajuste para las curvas de crecimiento fue la de Richards.

The creole hair sheep (CHS) developed adaptive advantages to the tropical climate, which allow them to have resistance to diseases, high fertility and prolificacy. Currently, there is little research on the productivity of CHS in systems associated with the cultivation of sugarcane, which makes it necessary to carry out research to promote its attributes. The purpose of this research was to analyze the productivity and body development of a crossing of CHS, using production parameters and growth curves.180 animals of single and multiple births were used; the follow weight was recorded: at birth (WB), at weaning (WW); at 210 days (W210), and furthermore, daily gains of pre-weaning (WDPRE) and post-weaning (WPPOS) were recorded. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with a GLM with the effects sex (S), type of birth (TB), number of births (NB) and period of birth (PB). The non-linear models Gompertz, Logistic, Brody, Richards and Von Bertalanffy were used in 1455 records of weights at different ages to perform growth curves. All analyzes were performed with the SAS statistical package. The R2, AIC and BIC coefficients obtained by the Gauss-Newton method were considered to select the best fit model. The males presented higher averages in the variables WB, WW, W210) and WPOS. The TB affected all the variables; The WB and the WPPOS were affected by the NB and the PB affected the WB, the WDPRE, the W210 and the WPPOS. The best fit model for the growth curves was of Richards.

DETERMINATION OF SEX FROM FOOTPRINT DIMENSIONS AMONG NUPE ETHNIC GROUP IN MINNA NIGER STATE

Determination of personal identity is a basic and pivotal step in forensic investigations and medico legal practices. In anthropological cases, forensic identification is generally carried out through examination of the body or the remains for prints from the body. Thus, the footprint becomes an invaluable index of identification particularly when the whole body is very badly mutilated. This study was carried out to determine the relationship between footprint dimensions and sex among individuals of Nupe ethnic group of Niger State. Sample size of four hundred and twenty one (421) subjects, two hundred and eighty three (283) males and one hundred and thirty eight (138) females were used in this study. The footprints were gotten by placing the volunteers' foot on the ink pad and it was then transferred on an A4 paper, where the footprint dimensions were later measured with a meter rule. The results of this study show that sex differences were highly significant using toe lengths and breadth (P? 0.01) but the footprint indices shows no statistical significance. Footprint dimension is sexually dimorphic. Footprint dimensions can be used to determine sex in addition to or in absence of skeletons such as long bones and skull. It can be applied in forensics for medico legal cases, shoe designing, fashion design and industrial design to optimize products

Dimorfismo sexual del agujero magno en tomografías de una población peruana / Sexual dimorphism of the foramen magnum in CT scans of a Peruvian population

Introducción: La base del cráneo es una estructura compacta, muy resistente a los daños físicos, la robustez del hueso occipital y la posición anatómica protegida del agujero magno bajo una profundidad de tejido blando pueden hacerlo menos vulnerable a la fragmentación y a los efectos de los procesos tafonómicos en comparación con otras estructuras óseas, lo que permite utilizarlo para estimar el dimorfismo sexual. Objetivo: Establecer la relación entre el dimorfismo sexual y la morfometría del agujero magno en tomografías de pacientes mayores o iguales a los 18 años que asistieron a consultorios privados en Lima metropolitana, durante los años 2015 al 2020. Materiales y métodos: El estudio se desarrolló con 239 tomografías (88 masculinos y 151 femeninos). Se realizaron mediciones del agujero magno de los diámetros anteroposterior máximo (DAPM), transversal máximo (DTM) y el área se estableció mediante la fórmula de Teixeira (1982). Resultados: El DAPM presentó una media en el sexo masculino de 37,182 +/- 2,4012 mm y en el femenino de 34,795 +/- 2,1086 mm, mientras que para el DTM se estableció una media en el sexo masculino de 32,517 +/- 2,3463 mm y para el femenino de 30,514 +/- 2,2084 mm, en el área según Teixeira (1982) en el sexo masculino se observó una media de 957,21390 +/- 115,162403mm2 y en el femenino de 840,11055 +/- 93,775088mm2. Se establece una relación estadística (p<0.05) entre los parámetros DAPM, DTM, A Teixeira (1982) entre ambos sexos. Conclusión: Existe relación entre el dimorfismo sexual y la morfometría del agujero magno, con una predicción de 71.96%

Introduction: The base of the skull is a compact structure, very resistant to physical damage, the robustness of the occipital bone and the protected anatomical position of the foramen magnum under a depth of soft tissue may make it less vulnerable to fragmentation and to the effects of taphonomic processes compared to other bone structures, allowing it to be used to estimate sexual dimorphism. Objective: To establish the relationship between sexual dimorphism and the morphometry of the foramen magnum in CT scans of patients older or equal to 18 years of age who attended private clinics in metropolitan Lima, during the years 2015 to 2020. Materials and methods: The study was developed with 239 tomographies (88 male and 151 female). Foramen magnum measurements of the maximum anteroposterior diameters (DAPM), maximum transverse (DTM) were performed and the area was established using Teixeira's (1982) formula. Results: The DAPM presented a mean in the male sex of 37.182 +/- 2.4012 mm and in the female sex of 34.795 +/- 2.1086 mm, while for the DTM a mean was established in the male sex of 32.517 +/- 2, 3463 mm and for the female of 30.514 +/- 2.2084 mm, in the area according to Teixeira (A Teixeira) in the male sex a mean of 957.21390 +/- 115.162403mm2 and in the female sex of 840.11055 +/- 93.775088mm2 was observed. A statistical relationship (p<0.05) was established between the parameters DAPM, DTM, A TEIXEIRA between both sexes. Conclusion: There is a relationship between sexual dimorphism and foramen magnum morphometry, with a prediction of 71.96%

NASOFACIAL ANTHROPOMETRIC PARAMETERS AND ITS RELEVANCE IN COVID 19: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.

Context- Nasofacial anthropometry is the measurement of facial and nasal parameters for racial and gender determination, forensic reconstructions, quantification and treatment of nasofacial abnormalities. Anthropometry also plays a pivotal role in industrial and fashion design, ergonomics and architecture. In these pandemic times, when mask etiquette has become the norm, it is imperative to ergonomically design facial masks to custom fit individuals. 'One size fits all' does not serve the purpose as air leaks waiver the use of these masks completely. Hence revising nasofacial anthropometric baseline data of populations has become more relevant than ever. To assess the nasofacial parameters of males and females of L Aim- Subjects & methods- ucknow population. The present cross sectional study was conducted in the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, BabuBanarasi Das College of Dental Sciences, Lucknow where 200 subjects with an age group of 18- 35 years were assessed. Nasal, Facial, Philtrum and Columella parameters were recorded using vernier calipers. Statisical analysis- Student's T test was applied to compare two independent groups and Chi square test was applied to compare categorical groups. - Our study found that hyperleptoprosopic face and mesorrhine nose was predominant in both g Results and conclusions enders with a definite increase in dimension among males; confirming sexual dimorphism. Literature review confirmed similarity of face types in places closer to India and variations in farther areas. To conclude, facial type may be majorly dependent on genetic descent and nasal type on environmental factors. Taking into account the huge Indian immigrant population worldwide, results of our study will provide baseline data to researchers.

Effect of intermaxillary tooth-size discrepancy on accuracy of prediction equations for mixed dentition space analysis for Davangere population

Context: In the mixed dentition period, malocclusion is in dormant stage, any interception should be preceded by a mixed dentition space analysis. Aims: To derive new regression equation in sample subjects (indigenous group) with no intermaxillary tooth size discrepancy (Bolton's ratio) residing in Davangere and to evaluate its accuracy. To assess the difference of tooth dimensions between males and females and difference between right and left of dental arches. Setting and Design: Descriptive study. Subjects and Methods: One hundred and fifty children (11–15 years) were included and dental casts were made. A digital Vernier caliper was used for the measurement of teeth. Bolton's ratio was calculated. Group A: Casts without Bolton's discrepancy and Group B: Casts with Bolton's discrepancy. Statistical Analysis Used: The data were analyzed with the SPSS software version 22.0. New regression equations were derived using correlation and regression analysis. Results: No statistically significant difference was recorded between the actual and predicted mesiodistal widths (MDWs) of permanent canine and premolars in maxilla and mandible, with/without Bolton's discrepancy. Males had statistically significant higher mean in maxillary and mandibular canine dimensions than female and no statistically significant difference between right and left side of dental arches was found. Conclusion: New regression equation was formulated for Davangere population, in which actual and predicted widths of permanent canines and premolars were found to be almost similar when established from sample with/without Bolton's discrepancy. In MDWs, the canine showed significant sexual dimorphism and no clinically significant variations were seen in the right and left sides of both the arches.

Perinatal exposure to an aromatase inhibitor glyphosate-base herbicide reduced male and female social behavior in juvenile age and the sexual behavior at adult female rats / Exposição perinatal ao inibidor da aromatase a base de glifosato reduz o comportamento social de machos e fêmeas e o comportamento sexual de ratas

Objectives: The herbicide glyphosate, a pesticide used in agriculture to control weeds, both in food crops and in other agricultural areas, has been identified as an endocrine modulator through the inhibition of aromatase activity and the activation of estrogen receptors. The present study examined the effects of a glyphosate-based herbicide (Roundup® (GLY-BH) on sexual dimorphism of rats after perinatal exposure to low and high GLY-BH in males and females offspring. Methods: Two groups of pregnant rats were treated with two doses of GLY-BH (50 or 150 mg/kg) from day 15 of gestation (GD15) to postnatal day 7 (PND7). Play fighting behavior was observed at the juvenile stage and during social and sexual behaviors in adulthood. Results: Perinatal GLY-BH exposure reduced male and female body weight at 28, 75, and 90 days of age. The play fighting behavior was decreased in both sexes, but female rats were more affected. The sexual behaviors were reduced only in females. Conclusions: Perinatal exposure to both doses of GLY-BH promoted sexually dimorphic effects in both juvenile and adulthood stages. These effects were attributed to the inhibition of aromatase activity induced by exposure to GLY-BH in the perinatal period.(AU)

Objetivos: O glifosato é um herbicida não seletivo, usado em muitas culturas alimentares e não alimentares e em áreas não agrícolas, sendo que os produtos a base de glifosato atuam como moduladores das funções endócrinas por meio da inibição da atividade da aromatase e da ativação de receptores de estrógeno. O presente estudo avaliou os efeitos do herbicida Roundup® (GLY-BH) à base de glifosato, em comportamentos sexualmente dimórficos de ratos após exposição perinatal a doses baixas e altas de GLY-BH no período perinatal. Métodos: Ratas prenhas foram tratadas com 50 ou 150 mg/kg de GLY-BH do 15º dia de gestação (GD15) ao 7º dia de lactação (LD7). O comportamento de luta/brincar foi observado na fase juvenil e os comportamentos social e sexual na idade adulta. Resultados: a exposição perinatal a GLY-BH reduziu o peso corporal de machos e fêmeas aos 28, 75 e 90 dias de idade. O comportamento de luta/brincar diminuiu em ambos os sexos, sendo as ratas foram as mais afetadas. O comportamento sexual foi reduzido apenas nas fêmeas. Conclusões: A exposição perinatal a ambas as doses do GLY- BH promoveu tanto na idade juvenil como na idade adulta, efeitos sexualmente dimórficos. Esses efeitos foram atribuídos à inibição da atividade da aromatase induzida exposição perinatal ao GLY-BH.(AU)

Studying Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis through a Network Medicine Approach / Estudando a Artrite Idiopática Juvenil mediante uma abordagem de medicina de redes

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a group of inflammatory conditions of unknown etiology whose underlying molecular pathophysiology is still not well characterized. Several studies have attempted to fill this gap by characterizing the gene expression profiles of JIA patients. However, there is a lack of systematic assessment of the reliability of these transcriptome results on the disease classification, prescription, and monitoring. In addition, despite this disease is more common in females, none of these studies have tried to assess the impact of sex on disease pathophysiology. In this project, we performed a comprehensive systematic review and a gene expression meta-analysis to reveal the core molecular JIA pathophysiology taking into consideration the patient sex. We gathered and cataloged more than 60,000 entries of genomic features reported as JIA-related in the functional genomics literature, and found a dramatic disparity among the JIA transcriptome studies. Near 15,000 genes have been reported as perturbed in JIA leukocytes. Less than one percent of these genes were reported in at least a quarter of the reviewed studies. We then removed the study-specific analytical bias by re-analyzing more than 700 unique pediatric transcriptome profiles from nine JIA studies using a common analytical framework. The differential expression results from different studies were combined using a random effect model meta-analysis approach. We implemented this differential gene expression meta-analysis methodology in the MetaVolcanoR R package that we made available in Bioconductor. Using this package, we confirmed several gene expression signatures previously associated with JIA and uncover new genes whose expression was perturbed in JIA patients. The effect sizes of the topmost reported perturbed genes coincide with our meta-analysis results. Through a meta-coexpression approach, we characterized the cell type signatures of circulating leukocytes in the JIA affected children. Additionally, we characterized the JIA sexual dimorphism. We found that systemic JIA female patients over-activate a gene expression signature which comprises early myelocytes and band neutrophil expression markers. This signature is correlated with the disease status and response to IL-1 receptor blockade. This suggests that sJIA pathophysiology is characterized by a sexually dimorphic neutrophilia that impacts disease progression and the response to anti-IL-1 treatments. We further assessed this immature neutrophil and female-biased signature in other contexts. We found that this signature presents a sex-dependent expression over human lifetime, in other inflammatory diseases, and its expression increases during pregnancy

A Artrite Idiopática Juvenil (AIJ) é um grupo de condições inflamatórias de etiologia desconhecida, cuja patofisiologia molecular subjacente ainda não está bem caracterizada. Vários estudos tentaram preencher essa lacuna, caracterizando os perfis de expressão gênica de pacientes com AIJ. No entanto, há uma falta de avaliação sistemática desses resultados transcriptômicos na classificação, prescrição e monitoramento da doença. Além disso, apesar de esta doença ser mais comum em mulheres, nenhum desses estudos tentou avaliar o impacto do sexo na fisiopatologia da doença. Neste projeto, realizamos uma revisão sistemática abrangente e uma metanálise de expressão gênica para revelar a fisiopatologia molecular da AIJ levando em consideração o sexo do paciente. Reunimos e catalogamos mais de 60.000 entradas de características genômicas reportadas como relacionadas à AIJ na literatura. Entre os estudos de transcriptoma, encontramos uma disparidade dramática. Cerca de 15.000 genes foram reportados como perturbados nos leucócitos da AIJ, sendo que menos de um por cento desses genes foram relatados em pelo menos um quarto dos estudos revisados. Em seguida, re-analisamos mais de 700 transcriptomas pediátricos de nove estudos usando uma abordagem analítica comum. Os resultados de expressão diferencial foram combinados usando meta-análise de modelo de efeitos aleatórios. Implementamos esta abordagem de meta-análise de expressão gênica diferencial no pacote MetaVolcanoR R que disponibilizamos no Bioconductor. Usando este pacote, confirmamos várias assinaturas de expressão gênica previamente associadas à AIJ e descobrimos novos genes cuja expressão está perturbada em pacientes com AIJ. Os tamanhos dos efeitos dos genes mais reportados como perturbados coincidem com os resultados da nossa meta-análise. Por meio de uma análise de meta-co-expressão, caracterizamos as assinaturas dos tipos de leucócitos circulantes. Além disso, caracterizamos o dimorfismo sexual da AIJ. Descobrimos que pacientes do sexo feminino com AIJ sistêmica super-ativam genes característicos de mielócitos precoces e neutrófilos bastonetes. Esta assinatura está correlacionada com o estado clínico da doença e à resposta ao tratamento por bloqueio do receptor de IL-1. Isto sugere que a fisiopatologia da AIJs é caracterizada por uma neutrofilia sexualmente dimórfica que afeta a progressão da doença e a resposta aos tratamentos anti-IL-1. Avaliamos ainda esta assinatura neutrofílica em outros contextos. Descobrimos que essa assinatura apresenta uma expressão dependente do sexo ao longo da vida humana, em outras doenças inflamatórias, e sua expressão aumenta durante a gravidez

Diferente asimetría craneal según sexo en el conejo toy / Different skull asymmetry according to sex in toy rabbits

RESUMEN: Los conejos denominados toy son seleccionados por su apariencia pedomórfica ('infantilizada'). El objetivo principal de este estudio fue analizar las asimetrías craneales en este tipo de conejo. Para ello, se estudiaron un total de 46 cráneos adultos (9 machos y 37 hembras), recurriéndose a técnicas de morfométrica geométrica a partir 10 hitos anatómicos pareados y 3 en el plano sagital, en la cara dorsal del cráneo. Nuestra hipótesis es que a través de la selección artificial en los machos (objetivo principal para la obtención de nuevos fenotipos) las asimetrías se expresarán como valores de asimetría más altos. El tamaño de los cráneos resultó similar entre ambos sexos, pero presentaban la asimetría fluctuante fue mayor en machos. La asimetría fluctuante se considera un indicador negativo de la capacidad de resistir pequeñas anomalías en su desarrollo, anomalías que son generalmente el resultado de estrés genético o ambiental. En otras palabras, los machos estarían sujetos a una selección más fuerte y, en consecuencia, se verían más afectados por el manejo, en comparación con las hembras. Estos resultados pueden facilitar la comprensión de los patrones y procesos subyacentes al dimorfismo sexual en fenotipos extremos, como lo son los de los conejos toy.

SUMMARY: Toy rabbits are selected for their paedomorphic ('babyish') appearance. The main objective of this study is to analyse the skull asymmetries of toy rabbits. For this purpose, a total of 46 adult skulls (9 males and 37 females) were studied. Geometric morphometric technique with five pairs of anatomical landmarks and three on sagittal plane on dorsal aspect of skull was used. Our hypothesis is that through artificial selection on males (which are the main subject for obtaining new phenotypes among toys) asymmetries will be expressed as higher asymmetrical values. Skulls' size was similar between sexes, but males presented a higher level of fluctuating asymmetry. Fluctuating asymmetry indicates a negative ability to buffer subtle developmental anomalies, normally from genetic or environmental origin. In other words, males would be under stronger directed selection and consequently be more affected by management (including selective) factors compared to females. These results can allow a better understanding of the patterns and processes underlying sexual shape dimorphism, especially with extreme phenotypes, as toy rabbits are.

Morphology of the antennal sensilla of two species of Hoplopyga Thomson, 1880 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae)

ABSTRACT Antennal sensilla are important functional elements of sensory systems in insects. This study aimed to determine the morphology and structure of the sensilla of two species of the genus Hoplopyga. Adults of Hoplopyga liturata (Olivier, 1789) were collected in traps with sugarcane juice as an attractant. Thereafter, larvae of Hoplopyga albiventris (Gory and Percheron, 1833) were collected in mounds of termites (Cornitermes cumulans (Kollar, 1832) Isoptera). Then, they were reared in the laboratory for adult observations. Antennae of H. liturata and H. albiventris have sensilla chaetica, trichodea, placodea (type I and II), coeloconica (type I and II), and ampullacea (or pore). Females of H. liturata have a total of about 10657 sensilla and males have about 12512, whereas females of H. albiventris have about 16490 sensilla and the males 24565 sensilla. Sensilla placodea are predominant in the antenna of males and females of both species.

Redescription of the Rio skate Rioraja agassizii (Rajiformes: Arhynchobatidae) with notes on internal anatomy and intraspecific variation

Rioraja agassizii belongs to the monotypic genus Rioraja and differs from the other Riorajini species of the genus Atlantoraja by the shape of anterior nasal flap, squamation, clasper skeleton, body measurements and color pattern. Although R. agassizii is a well-known species, commonly captured in inshore waters of the southwestern Atlantic, its external morphology and internal anatomy have never been fully described and little is known on intraspecific variation within the species. Juvenile and adult, male and female specimens were examined, measured and dissected. Herein, we redescribe the species and present detailed descriptions and illustrations of external morphology, neurocranium, jaws, hyoid and gill arches, and pelvic fin and girdle. Additionally, notes on sexual dimorphism and ontogenetic differences in coloration, body and cranial measurements, and dermal denticles are provided.(AU)

Rioraja agassizii pertence ao gênero monotípico Rioraja e difere das demais espécies da tribo Riorajini classificadas no gênero Atlantoraja pelo formato da aba nasal anterior, escamas, esqueleto do clásper, medidas corpóreas e padrão de coloração. Embora R. agassizii seja uma espécie bem conhecida, comumente capturada em águas costeiras do Atlântico Sul Ocidental, sua morfologia externa e anatomia interna não foram totalmente descritas e pouco se sabe sobre a variação intraespecífica nesta espécie. Espécimes juvenis, adultos, machos e fêmeas foram examinados, medidos e dissecados. Neste estudo, a espécie é redescrita e descrições detalhadas e ilustrações da morfologia externa, neurocrânio, maxilas, arcos hioide e branquiais, nadadeira e cintura pélvicas são apresentadas. Adicionalmente, notas sobre dimorfismo sexual e variação ontogenética na coloração, medidas corpóreas e craniais, e dentículos dérmicos são fornecidas.(AU)

The genital and anal papillae of Compsura heterura (Characidae: Cheirodontinae): morphological structure and possible role in insemination

The function of the genital and anal papillae for insemination in Compsura heterura is discussed based on the description of their morphologies at different stages of the life cycle and during copulation and spawning. In males and females both the genital and anal papillae are involved in copulation in C. heterura. A pre-anal organ, anterior to the anus and stretched posteriorly, is present in adult males. The openings of the urinary channel and oviduct are separate in females. During copulation, there is an approximation between the female genital and anal papillae which become temporarily juxtaposed, forming a chamber enclosing the opening of the oviduct, which may also function in sperm capture. During spawning, the lateral edges of the female genital papilla are projected anteriorly, acquiring a tubular shape for oviposition.(AU)

A função das papilas genital e anal na inseminação em Compsura heterura é discutida com base na descrição de suas morfologias em diferentes estágios do ciclo de vida e por ocasião da cópula e desova. Em machos e fêmeas, as papilas genital e anal estão envolvidas na cópula. Um órgão pré-anal, anterior ao ânus e alongado posteriormente, está presente em machos adultos. Fêmeas possuem aberturas urinária e genital separadas. Durante a cópula, ocorre uma aproximação entre as papilas genital e anal femininas, que se justapõem temporariamente, formando uma câmara fechada onde se abre o oviduto, e que serve possivelmente à captura de esperma. Durante a desova, as bordas laterais da papila genital feminina são projetadas anteriormente, adquirindo um formato tubular para ovoposição.(AU)

Craniometric study of the Orbital Index in brazilian skulls / Estudo craniométrico do Índice Orbitário em crânios humanos brasileiros

ABSTRACT Objetive To determine the percentage of correctness of the Orbital Index (OI) for estimation of sex, ancestry and age in Brazilian skulls. Methods Cross-sectional study of 183 human dry skulls from the southeastern Brazil. A total of 100 skeletons were males and 83 females; of which 36 were aged up to 39 years, 60 aged between 40 and 59 years, and 87 aged 60 years or older. As for ancestry, 103 were from white, 51 mixed race, and 29 black individuals. The OI was calculate by the formula = height/width x 100. The data were submitted to Student's t test, F (ANOVA), Tukey and Kruskal Wallis tests as well as to discriminant analysis, with a 5% significance level. Results The sample was characterized as mesoseme, with a mean age of 56.62 (±19.97) years. No significant difference was observed (p=0.511) between the OI in females (right: 86.43 ± 6.58 and left: 86.70 ± 5.93) and males (right: 85.78 ± 6.69 and left: 86.37 ± 6.20). There were no significant differences between age, ancestry and the variables analyzed (p>0.05). The right and left orbital widths were significantly dimorphic between sexes (p<0.001). The percentage of correctness of the method for estimation of sex, age and ancestry was found to be 65.6%, 43.7%, and 43.6%, respectively. Conclusions The OI is not an appropriate method for estimation of sex, ancestry and estimation of age in this Brazilian sample. The methodology should be expanded to other population groups so that it can be improved.

RESUMO Objetivo Determinar a porcentagem de correlação do Índice Orbitário (IO) na estimativa do sexo, da ancestralidade e da idade em crânios brasileiros. Métodos Estudo de corte transversal de 183 crânios secos humanos do sudeste brasileiro. No total, 100 esqueletos eram homens e 83 mulheres; dos quais 36 tinham até 39 anos, 60 tinham entre 40 e 59 anos e 87 tinham 60 anos ou mais. Quanto à ascendência, 103 eram brancos, 51 pardos e 29 negros. O IO foi calculado pela fórmula = altura / largura x 100. Os dados foram submetidos aos testes t de Student, F (ANOVA), Tukey e Kruskal Wallis, bem como à análise discriminante, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados A amostra foi caracterizada como mesoseme, com média de idade de 56,62 (± 19,97) anos. Não houve diferença significativa (p = 0,511) entre o IO no sexo feminino (direita: 86,43 ± 6,58 e esquerda: 86,70 ± 5,93) e do sexo masculino (direita: 85,78 ± 6,69 e esquerda: 86,37 ± 6,20). Não houve diferenças significativas entre idade, ancestralidade e as variáveis analisadas (p> 0,05). As larguras orbitais direita e esquerda foram significativamente dimórficas entre os sexos (p <0,001). A porcentagem de acerto do método para estimativa de sexo, idade e ancestralidade foi de 65,6%, 43,7% e 43,6%, respectivamente. Conclusão O IO não é um método apropriado para estimativa de sexo, ancestralidade e estimativa de idade nesta amostra brasileira. A metodologia deve ser expandida para outros grupos populacionais para que possa ser aperfeiçoada.

Sex disparities determined by biometric and hematological measurements in Astyanax bimaculatus / [Disparidades sexuais determinadas por medições biométricas e hematológicas em Astyanax bimaculatus]

This study aimed to compare the body indexes and hematological characteristics between Astyanax bimaculatus males and females. Four hundred fish were randomly distributed into four polyethylene tanks (100 fish/unit) in a recirculation system and fed four times a day (3% of biomass). After 90 days, ten fish (five ♀ and five ♂) were removed to perform blood tests and to measure weight, height, total length, height/length ratio, condition factor and index determination: vicerosomatic (VSI), hepatosomatic (HSI), and gonadosomatic (GSI). The results showed a higher average weight (g) in females (12.32±0.71) compared to males (6.98±0.75), the same happened to height (cm) = (3.01±0.07) and (2.40±0.05), total length (cm) = (3.01±0.07) and (2.40±0.05), VSI (%) = (11.43±0.81) and (3.55±1.05), HSI (%) = (0.72±0.08) and (0.30±0.04), respectively. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (pg) was higher in females (3.72±1.20) than in males (2.99±1.51). Regarding the number of thrombocytes (103.µL-1), there was an increase in males (25.71±3.91) compared to females (17.40±6.40).(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar os índices corporais e as características hematológicas entre machos e fêmeas de Astyanax bimaculatus. Quatrocentos peixes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro caixas de polietileno (100 peixes/unidade), em sistema de recirculação, e alimentados quatro vezes ao dia (3% da biomassa). Após 90 dias, 10 peixes (cinco ♀ e cinco ♂) foram retirados para realização das análises sanguíneas e para mensuração do peso, da altura, do comprimento total, da relação altura/comprimento, do fator de condição e da determinação dos índices: viscerossomático (IVS), hepatossomático (IHS) e gonadossomático (IGS). Os resultados mostraram um maior peso médio (g) nas fêmeas (12,32±0,71) em relação aos machos (6,98±0,75); o mesmo aconteceu para altura (cm) = (3,01± 0,07) e (2,40± 0,05), comprimento total (cm) = (3,01±0,07) e (2,40±0,05), IVS (%) = (11,43±0,81) e (3,55±1,05), IHS (%) = (0,72±0,08) e (0,30±0,04), respectivamente. Hemoglobina corpuscular média (pg) foi maior nas fêmeas (3,72±1,20) que nos machos (2,99±1,51). Em relação ao número de trombócitos (103/µL), houve um aumento nos machos (25,71± 3,91) em relação às fêmeas (17,40±6,40).(AU)

A meta-analytic review for the patella sexual dimorphism assessment / Una revisión meta-analítica para la evaluación del dimorfismo sexual de la patela

Sexual dimorphism is one of the most important ways to identify bone remains in mass disasters. Many of them have been used for this purpose; mainly skull, pelvis and long bones. However, only a few studies using the patella have been done and, to our knowledge, there are no assessments of previous results in the literature. Meta-analysis provides a useful strong tool to test, in a systematic way, the most relevant information about a given research field. The aim of this study is to apply the meta-analytic technique to assess the major studies concerning sexual dimorphism in the patella by measuring classical metric traits: maximum height and maximum width, with different techniques, such as caliper, radiography, tomography and magnetic resonance. The 17 papers found, involving a total sample size higher than 2600 patellae, showed a very high heterogeneity- around 93 % of I2 value, for height and width measurements when all the studies were analyzed together. Homogeneity increased when each study was classified according to the techniques used. In this case, a statistical difference appeared, among the several subgroups of techniques for the two measurements, suggesting the importance of the methodology used. Maximum height and maximum width were all showed to be statistically relevant in distinguishing both sexes.

El dimorfismo sexual es una de las formas más importantes para identificar restos óseos en desastres masivos. Se han utilizado huesos como cráneo, pelvis y huesos largos para la diferenciación sexual. Sin embargo, solo se han realizado unos pocos estudios con la patela y, hasta donde sabemos, no hay evaluaciones de resultados anteriores en la literatura. El meta-análisis proporciona una herramienta sólida y útil para probar, de manera sistemática, la información más relevante sobre un cierto campo de investigación. El objetivo de este estudio consiste en aplicar la técnica metaanalítica para evaluar los principales estudios sobre dimorfismo sexual en la patela midiendo los rasgos métricos clásicos: altura máxima y anchura máxima, con diferentes técnicas: calibre, radiografía, tomografía y resonancia magnética. Los 17 de documentos encontrados, con un tamaño de muestra total superior a 2600 patelas, mostraron una heterogeneidad muy alta, alrededor del 93 % del valor de I2, para mediciones de altura y anchura cuando todos los estudios se analizaron juntos. La homogeneidad aumentó cuando cada estudio se clasificó de acuerdo con las técnicas utilizadas. En este caso, se observó diferencias estadísticas, entre los subgrupos de técnicas para las dos mediciones, lo que sugiere la importancia de la metodología utilizada. La altura máxima y la anchura máxima mostraron ser estadísticamente relevantes para distinguir ambos sexos.

Morphological evaluation of the humeral length and application as indicator of sexual dimorphism among Southern Nigerian children

Background: This study was carried out to evaluate humeral length among children in Southern Nigeria and to describe its sexual dimorphism among study population.Methods: This study involved 450 children (230 males and 220 females) between 3-14 years old in Southern Nigerian.  The humeral length was measured as distance between lateral epicondyle distally palpated when elbow was flexed to 90 degrees and acromion proximally palpated lateral end of clavicle. Definitive right and left humeral lengths (RHL and LHL) were derived by subtracting 2.5 mm from measured length. Average values of RHL and LHL were evaluated as morphological humeral length (MHL) for each subject. Data were analyzed using IBM-SPSS version 20 and statistical comparisons done using t-test with p < 0.05 regarded as level of significant difference.Results: In all age groups, non-significant bilateral variation was observed with the RHL higher than the LHL among both male and female subjects. In addition, the results showed significant (p<0.05) sexual dimorphism in all age groups with mean±SEM of MHL among 3-6 years old higher in females (19.45±0.81) than in males (18.63±0.83).  However, the reverse was observed among higher age groups with mean±SEM of MHL in 7-10- and 11-14-years old males (24.43±0.95 and 28.75±0.94) significantly higher than in 7-10 years old and 11-14 years old females (22.85±0.91 and 26.73±0.84) respectively.Conclusions: Based on findings of this study, humeral morphometrics particularly the humeral length can be applied as a significant indicator of sexual dimorphism among the study population.

Dimorfismo sexual a través del análisis morfométrico de bóvedas palatinas en una población peruana / Sexual Dimorphism Via Palatal Vault Morphometric Analysis on A Sample Peruvian Population

Resumen: Objetivo: Determinar la precisión del dimorfismo sexual a través del análisis morfométrico de bóvedas palatinas en cráneos procedentes del Laboratorio de Investigación Forense del Equipo Forense Especializado (EFE) de Ayacucho del Ministerio Público - Perú. Materiales y métodos: Diseño transversal, constituido con una muestra de 43 cráneos con sexo biológico preestablecido, (24=masculino y 19=femenino). La estimación del dimorfismo sexual se estableció a través del método propuesto por Meera Jacob y cols., basado en las mediciones de la longitud y ancho palatino, posteriormente se calculó el índice palatino, estableciéndose la precisión y exactitud del método. El análisis inferencial se realizó con un nivel de significancia del 5% a través de la prueba T student, Shapiro Wilk y el coeficiente de Pearson. Resultados: Se estableció que el ancho palatino presenta una media de 3,43 (+0,31) cm. para el sexo masculino y 3,62 (+0,25) cm. para el femenino, en la longitud palatina la media fue de 5,07 (+0,44) cm. para masculino y 4,79 (+0,41) cm. en el femenino; en el índice palatino, el 100% de los cráneos de sexo masculino corresponden al paladar duro estrecho y en el femenino un 73,7% al estrecho, un 21% al intermedio y un 5,3% al ancho. Además, se determinó que existió diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los parámetros del ancho y longitud de la bóveda palatina entre ambos sexos y se planteó una fórmula de análisis discriminante. Conclusión: El análisis morfométrico de bóvedas palatinas establece una precisión de 83.72% en la estimación del dimorfismo sexual.

Abstracts: Objective: Determine sexual dimorphism precision via palatal vault morphometric analysis in craniums sourced from the Laboratorio de Investigación Forense del Equipo Forense Especializado (EFE) de Ayacucho del Ministerio Público- Perú. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional design consisting of a sample of 43 skulls with pre-established biological gender, (24 males and 19 females). Sexual dimorphism was established by means of the method proposed by Meera Jacob and co., based on palatal width and length measurements, after which the palatal index was calculated, establishing the method's precision and accuracy. The inferential analysis was made with a level of significance of 5% through the T student test, Shapiro Wilk and Pearson's coefficient. Results: Palatal width had a mean of 3.43 (+0.31cm) for males and 3.62 (+0.25) for females and in palatal length a mean of 5.07 (+0.44) cm. for males and 4.79 (+0.41) cm. for females is established; on palatal index, 100% of the male skulls correspond to hard narrow palate and on females 73.7% to narrow, 21% to intermediate and 5.3% to wide. Furthermore, it was determined that there were statistically significant differences between width and length of palatal vault for both genders, and a discriminating analysis formula was proposed. Conclusion: Morphometric analyses of palatal vaults establish an 83.72% precision on the estimation of sexual dimorphism.