Predictors of lumbar spine trabecular bone score in women with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism.

Hypoparathyroidism is a rare disease that markedly reduces bone remodeling, leading to increased bone mineral density and changes in bone microarchitecture. However, it is currently unclear how these changes affect fracture risk. In this study, we investigated bone mass by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, the occurrence of morphometric vertebral fractures, and bone microarchitecture by assessing trabecular bone score in women with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism. We included 67 women with hypoparathyroidism aged 52.9 ± 12.3 years and 63 age- and body mass index-matched controls, which were assessed for femoral and lumbar spine bone mineral density, trabecular bone score, and vertebral fractures by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Women with hypoparathyroidism had significantly higher bone mineral density at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip compared with controls despite similar trabecular bone score values. Vertebral fracture assessment indicated that two women with hypoparathyroidism presented vertebral fractures, both aged over 65 years. Conversely, no vertebral fractures were detected in control women. In a multivariate linear regression model, we found that older age, diabetes, and lower lumbar spine mineral density were significant predictors of lower trabecular bone score values. Our findings indicate that vertebral fractures are not common among women with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism aged under 65 years. Moreover, trabecular bone score values were similar in women with hypoparathyroidism and age-matched controls and were associated with traditional risk factors for fractures, such as older age, type 2 diabetes, and lower spine bone mineral density. LAY SUMMARY: Chronic parathyroid hormone deficiency decreases bone turnover and modifies skeletal properties, although the impact of these changes on fracture risk remains unclear. We studied 67 women with postsurgical hypoparathyroidism and 63 age and body mass index-matched healthy controls and found that bone mineral density is increased in women with hypoparathyroidism despite similar trabecular bone score values and a low occurrence of morphometric vertebral fractures. This suggests that the low bone turnover in hypoparathyroidism increases bone mass, but this is not accompanied by improved bone microarchitecture, indicating that trabecular bone score may be a valuable tool to complement the assessment of skeletal health and the risk of fractures in this condition.

Characterization of sperm morphology in two species of Neotropical bats: Artibeus planirostris and Sturnira erythromos (Phyllostomidae, Chiroptera).

Sperm morphology is considered the best indicator of male fertility. In Neotropical bats, important aspects of sperm morphology have been scantly studied. The aim of the present study was to characterize and compare the sperm morphology and morphometry of Artibeus planirostris and Sturnira erythromos. A total of 11 specimens were analyzed from the Colección de Mamíferos Lillo: five A. planirostris and six S. erythromos. The fixed epididymis were extracted and macerated in Farmer's solution, followed by the routine cytological procedure with different stains. To carry out the description and morphometric analysis, microphotographs were taken under an optical, epifluorescence and scanning electron microscope. A total of 50 sperm from each individual were measured for morphometric analysis. The percentage of normal/abnormal spermatozoa was estimated and the sperm abnormalities were classified. Both species showed morphologically simple spermatozoa with a spatulate head, a short neck, a helical midpiece and a tail that tapers at the final end, similar to other species of Phyllostomidae. The differences observed were: apex of the head was conical in A. planirostris and was oval in S. erythromos; longer head and midpiece in S. erythomos and longer sperm in A. planirostris. Both species showed a high percentage of sperm with normal appearance: 65% for A. planirostris and 72% for S. erythromos. The main sperm abnormalities were: scattered tails and heads, coiled tails, folded midpieces and presence of cytoplasmic droplets. The present work will improve the understanding of their reproductive biology. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Morphological descriptions and morphometric analyses of the sperm of Artibeus planirostris and Sturnira erythromos were carried out with optical, epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopy.

Sexual dimorphism in the dwarf round ray Urotrygon nana.

This paper presents information on the morphological, morphometric, and dental sex differences in the dwarf round ray Urotrygon nana. We recorded 12 morphological traits, sex, the distribution pattern of dermal denticles, the number of tooth rows, and the tooth shape of 466 individuals. The disc width of females ranged from 50 to 172 mm and that of males ranged from 53 to 135 mm. A neuronal classification model and a correspondence analysis showed that female disc width was 21.5% broader, and the distance from the rostrum to the anus was 17.7% longer than that of males, whereas males presented 19.5% greater distance between the nostrils, 9.7% greater preorbital snout length, 6.8% greater cloaca to caudal-fin length, 2.7% greater interorbital distance, and 1.1% greater total length than females. The disc of adult males, including the abdominal cavity area, was densely covered with dermal denticles, which were slightly larger than those observed in females. Females presented homodont dentition with molariform teeth and a smooth lozenge-shaped crown with rounded margins. Males exhibited homodonty but with tooth morphology variations in individuals of different sizes (from molariforms to sharper cusp teeth). There were changes in disc shape (from subcircular to oval), distribution and size of dermal denticles (more abundant and larger), and tooth shape (from molariform to monocuspid teeth) during male development, from neonates to adults. U. nana exhibited sexual dimorphism in size, disc shape, number and shape of teeth, and distribution and size of dermal denticles.

Morphometric and taxonomic approach to describe Heterospio variabilis (Annelida, Longosomatidae), a new species with three size-dependent morphotypes, from the Gulf of California, Eastern Pacific.

The Longosomatidae, a poorly known polychaete family, includes only 23 recognized species; in this study, based on morphometric and taxonomic analyses, we describe a new species with three morphotypes: Heterospio variabilis from the Gulf of California, Mexico. The specimens examined exhibit large morphological variations but were clearly separated from close species due to a unique combination of morphological characters: chaetiger 9 as the first elongated chaetiger, four to eight branchial pairs; chaetae from chaetiger 10 forming rings in two rows, posterior row with thin and robust capillaries, anterior row with subuluncini, aristate spines, acicular spines and thick acicular spines. With the discriminant analysis, carried out on 11 morphometric characters, the presence of three morphological groups were recognized (Wilks' lambda= 0.093, p = 0.0001). However, the variables selected to discriminate the specimens (partial Wilks' lambda > 0.57) were correlated to their size: number of branchiae, body width, prostomium width, rate length CH9/CH1-CH8, length CH1-CH8 and length CH9 (r > 0.5). So, we concluded that they belong to a single species with three morphotypes: morpho A with eight branchial pairs, morpho B with 5-6-7 pairs and morpho C with 4 pairs. No correlations between the distribution of the distinct morphotypes along the eastern gulf shelf and the environmental conditions where they settle were detected.

Maternal protein supplementation during mid-gestation improves offspring performance and metabolism in beef cows.

This study examined the impact of maternal protein supplementation during mid-gestation on offspring, considering potential sex-related effects. Forty-three pregnant purebred Tabapuã beef cows (20 female and 23 male fetuses) were collectively managed in a pasture until 100 d of gestation. From 100 to 200 d of gestation, they were randomly assigned to the restricted group [(RES) - basal diet (75% corn silage + 25% sugar cane bagasse + mineral mixture); n = 24] or control group [(CON) - same basal diet + based-plant supplement [40% of crude protein, 3.5 g/kg of body weight (BW); n = 19]. From 200 d of gestation until parturition, all cows were equally fed corn silage and mineral mixture. During the cow-calf phase, cows and their calves were maintained in a pasture area. After weaning, calves were individually housed and evaluated during the backgrounding (255 to 320 d), growing 1 (321 to 381 d), and growing 2 (382 to 445 d) phases. Offspring's blood samples were collected at 210 and 445 d of age. Samples of skeletal muscle tissue were collected through biopsies at 7, 30, and 445 d of age. Muscle tissue samples were subjected to reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Prenatal treatment and offspring's sex (when pertinent) were considered fixed effects. The significance level was set at 5%. At mid-gestation, cows supplemented with protein reached 98% and 92% of their protein and energy requirements, while nonsupplemented cows attained only 30% and 50% of these requirements, respectively. The RES offspring were lighter at birth (27 vs. 31 kg), weaning (197 vs. 214 kg), and 445 d of age (398 vs. 429 kg) (P ≤ 0.05). The CON calves had greater (P < 0.05) morphometric measurements overall. The CON offspring had ~26% greater muscle fiber area (P ≤ 0.01). There was a trend (P = 0.06) for a greater Mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase mRNA expression in the Longissimus thoracis in the CON group at 7 d of age. The Myogenic differentiation 1 expression was greater (P = 0.02) in RES-females. Upregulation of Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 was observed in RES offspring at 445 d (P = 0.04). Expression of Fatty acid binding protein 4 (P < 0.001), Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (P < 0.001), and Stearoyl-Coenzyme A desaturase (P < 0.001) was upregulated in CON-females. Therefore, protein supplementation during gestation enhances offspring growth and promotes favorable responses to lipogenesis, particularly in females.

In tropical conditions, beef cows on pasture often experience protein restriction during mid-to-late gestation, potentially impacting offspring development negatively. To address this, we investigated the effects of strategic protein supplementation for pregnant beef cows fed low-quality forage during mid-gestation on the postnatal growth trajectory of their offspring. The supplementation program, implemented during mid-gestation, increased dry matter intake by addressing nitrogen deficiency in the rumen, resulting in meeting 98% and 92% of protein and energy requirements in supplemented cows. In contrast, nonsupplemented cows met only 30% and 50% of these requirements, respectively. Consequently, protein supplementation positively influenced the postnatal growth trajectory of the offspring, attributed to beneficial changes in secondary myogenesis and hypertrophy processes. Supplementing cows with crude protein also stimulated lipogenesis, potentially contributing to intramuscular fat deposition, particularly in females. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of nutritional interventions for pregnant beef cows fed low-quality forage.

Morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum in the Peruvian population.

Background: The foramen magnum, as an anatomical structure, holds clinical and functional significance due to its strategic location in the craniovertebral transition. A detailed understanding of its dimensions and shapes is crucial for better comprehension of related pathologies and for enhancing neurosurgical techniques within a specific population. The objective is to measure precise morphometric reference points of the foramen magnum in individuals of Peruvian ancestry, aiming to establish specific anatomical patterns and potential variations within this population. Methods: The study was conducted on 17 unidentified skulls donated to the NeuroZone3D Research Center, utilizing an inelastic and soft measuring tape as the tool. Our report considered direct anthropometric measurement techniques with data collection performed by a single researcher. Results: Distinct morphometric characteristics were observed in the foramen magnum of the Peruvian population compared to other studies. The average measurements of the skull base revealed a foramen magnum with a mean length of 33.80 mm and a width of 28.70 mm, along with right condyles measuring 25 mm in length and 14.10 mm in width, and left condyles measuring 23.80 mm in length and 13.90 mm in width. Conclusion: The morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum in the Peruvian population provides valuable insights into specific anatomical features within this ethnic group. These findings could have significant implications across various medical and surgical disciplines, from interpreting diagnostic images to designing more precise therapeutic interventions tailored to this population.

New perspectives on assessment and understanding of the patient with cranial bone defect: a morphometric and cerebral radiodensity assessment.

Background: Skull defects after decompressive craniectomy (DC) cause physiological changes in brain function and patients can have neurologic symptoms after the surgery. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether there are morphometric changes in the cortical surface and radiodensity of brain tissue in patients undergoing cranioplasty and whether those variables are correlated with neurological prognosis. Methods: This is a prospective cohort with 30 patients who were submitted to cranioplasty and followed for 6 months. Patients underwent simple head CT before and after cranioplasty for morphometric and cerebral radiodensity assessment. A complete neurological exam with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), modified Rankin Scale, and the Barthel Index was performed to assess neurological prognosis. Results: There was an improvement in all symptoms of the syndrome of the trephined, specifically for headache (p = 0.004) and intolerance changing head position (p = 0.016). Muscle strength contralateral to bone defect side also improved (p = 0.02). Midline shift of intracranial structures decreased after surgery (p = 0.004). The Anterior Distance Difference (ADif) and Posterior Distance Difference (PDif) were used to assess morphometric changes and varied significantly after surgery. PDif was weakly correlated with MMSE (p = 0.03; r = -0.4) and Barthel index (p = 0.035; r = -0.39). The ratio between the radiodensities of gray matter and white matter (GWR) was used to assess cerebral radiodensity and was also correlated with MMSE (p = 0.041; r = -0.37). Conclusion: Morphological anatomy and radiodensity of the cerebral cortex can be used as a tool to assess neurological prognosis after DC.

Prevalence of Morphometric Vertebral Fractures After Bariatric Surgery and Its Relationship with Bone Mineral Density and Bone Markers.

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery (BS) can lead to bone loss and an increased fracture risk. METHODS: To determine the morphometric vertebral fracture (MVF) prevalence, and its relationship with bone mineral density (BMD), and biomarker's turnover after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG), we analyzed post-surgery X-rays of the spine in 80 patients (88% female, 51% RYGB, age 41.2 [6.8] years) from 117 participants' retrospective cohort (1-2 years, >2 and <5 years, and >5 years). We still analyzed body composition and BMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and bone parameters. RESULTS: MVF prevalence was 17.5% (14/80), with no statistical difference between groups (p = 0.210). RYGB group had a higher prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) (PTH ≥ 65 pg/ml; 18.4% vs 7.8%, respectively, p = 0.04), PTH (61.3 vs 49.5 pg/ml, p = 0.001), CTX (0.766 [0.29] ng/ml vs 0.453 [0.30] ng/ml, p = 0.037), and AP (101.3 [62.4] U/L vs 123.9 [60.9] U/L, p = 0.027) than the SG group. Up to 5 years postoperatively, RYGB had a lower total (1.200 [0.087] vs 1.236 [0.100] g/cm2, p = 0.02), femoral neck (1.034 [0.110] vs 1.267 [0.105], p = 0.005), and total femur BMD (1.256 [0.155] vs 1.323 [0.167], p = 0.002) than SG group. We found no statistically significant difference between the MFV (+) and MVF (-) groups regarding age, sex, BMI, surgery time, BMD, or bone and metabolic parameters, including leptin. CONCLUSION: We found a high prevalence of MVF after BS with no differences between RYGB and SG.

Deleterious effects of benzotriazoles on zebrafish development and neurotransmission: 5-Chloro-benzotriazole versus 1H-benzotriazole.

Benzotriazoles are heterocyclic compounds typically presenting a benzene ring fused with a triazole molecule. The industry uses these compounds as anti-corrosion agents and recently, they have been employed in the pharmaceutical industry and in detergent formulations. Benzotriazoles persist in the environment, and water treatment plants cannot degrade them completely. Consequently, these compounds have been detected in rivers, lakes, and drinking water, which makes assessing their safety for the human and aquatic animal populations crucial. Here, we have evaluated and compared how exposure to 1H-benzotriazole or 5-chloro-benzotriazole affect the zebrafish embryo-larval stages. We have determined the acute toxicity, morphometric alterations, and acetylcholinesterase activity on zebrafish embryos, as well as behavioral endpoints using the tail coiling assay. The estimated LC50 of 5-chloro-benzotriazole was 19 mg/L, whereas 1H-benzotriazole caused no mortality. The zebrafish embryos exposed to 20 and 25 mg/L 5-chloro-benzotriazole had decreased hatching rate and exhibited pericardial and yolk sac edemas. Furthermore, the embryo length and eye area were decreased, in contrast with an increased yolk sac after exposure to 20 mg/L 5-chloro-benzotriazole. In turn, 1H-benzotriazole also decreased the eye area of zebrafish embryos, but no other significant morphological alterations were observed. The tail coiling assay showed that the zebrafish embryos increased the percentage of time moving and the number of embryonic movements per minute after exposure to 1H-benzotriazole (15 mg/L) or 5-chloro-benzotriazole (20 and 25 mg/L), indicating that these compounds were potentially neurotoxic. However, acetylcholinesterase activity was not significantly altered in embryos exposed to 1H-benzotriazole, but significantly decreased when exposed to 0.05 mg/L 5-chloro benzotriazole confirming its neurotoxicity at a much lower concentration. Our findings showed that 5-chloro-benzotriazole seems to induce more harmful alterations to zebrafish embryos than 1H-benzotriazole. Nevertheless, 1H-benzotriazole seems to induce a direct effect on eye development for concentrations lower than the ones of 5-chloro-benzotriazole affecting zebrafish embryos.

Study of some morphometric and meristic characteristics of Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833) collected from the Arabian coast / Estudo de características morfométricas e merísticas de Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833) coletados na costa da Arábia

The present study examines the correlations between fifteen morphometric and ten meristic characters and total length (TL) of males, females, and combined sexes of Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833) collected from Karachi fish harbor, West Wharf of Karachi Coast. Statistical analyses of linear regression relationships show mostly strong correlations (r≥0.70; p<0.05) between total length (TL) and most morphometric characters in males, females, and combined sexes, except the height of pectoral-fin (PFH), and pelvic-fin base length (PelFL); whereas, meristic characters were found to be constant and indicate weak or negative type correlations (r≤0.50; p>0.05) with total length (TL). Hence, according to our present results, there is a direct relationship between the total length of fish and all morphometric characters, which were found to be the best indicators of positive allometric pattern growth in fish. Moreover, analysis of the 2-sample t-test revealed (t-test; p>0.05) that no sexual dimorphism was reported in Alepes vari. Thus, our present study could be valuable in systematic classification, sexual dimorphism, and management of this species on the Karachi coast.

O presente estudo examina as correlações entre 15 caracteres morfométricos e 10 caracteres merísticos e comprimento total (CT) de machos, fêmeas e sexos combinados de Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833), coletados do porto de Karachi, West Wharf, na costa de Karachi. As análises estatísticas das relações de regressão linear mostraram, principalmente, correlações fortes (r ≥ 0,70; p < 0,05) entre o CT e a maioria dos caracteres morfométricos em machos, fêmeas e sexos combinados, exceto a altura da nadadeira peitoral e o comprimento da base da nadadeira pélvica, enquanto os caracteres merísticos foram constantes, indicando correlações fracas ou negativas (r ≤ 0,50; p > 0,05) com o CT. Portanto, de acordo com nossos resultados, existe uma relação direta entre o CT dos peixes e todos os caracteres morfométricos, que foram considerados os melhores indicadores de crescimento do padrão alométrico positivo em peixes. Além disso, a análise do teste t de duas amostras revelou (teste t; p > 0,05) que nenhum dimorfismo sexual foi relatado em A. vari.

Study of some morphometric and meristic characteristics of Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833) collected from the Arabian coast

Abstract The present study examines the correlations between fifteen morphometric and ten meristic characters and total length (TL) of males, females, and combined sexes of Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833) collected from Karachi fish harbor, West Wharf of Karachi Coast. Statistical analyses of linear regression relationships show mostly strong correlations (r0.70; p 0.05) between total length (TL) and most morphometric characters in males, females, and combined sexes, except the height of pectoral-fin (PFH), and pelvic-fin base length (PelFL); whereas, meristic characters were found to be constant and indicate weak or negative type correlations (r0.50; p>0.05) with total length (TL). Hence, according to our present results, there is a direct relationship between the total length of fish and all morphometric characters, which were found to be the best indicators of positive allometric pattern growth in fish. Moreover, analysis of the 2-sample t-test revealed (t-test; p>0.05) that no sexual dimorphism was reported in Alepes vari. Thus, our present study could be valuable in systematic classification, sexual dimorphism, and management of this species on the Karachi coast.

Resumo O presente estudo examina as correlações entre 15 caracteres morfométricos e 10 caracteres merísticos e comprimento total (CT) de machos, fêmeas e sexos combinados de Alepes vari (Cuvier, 1833), coletados do porto de Karachi, West Wharf, na costa de Karachi. As análises estatísticas das relações de regressão linear mostraram, principalmente, correlações fortes (r 0,70; p 0,05) entre o CT e a maioria dos caracteres morfométricos em machos, fêmeas e sexos combinados, exceto a altura da nadadeira peitoral e o comprimento da base da nadadeira pélvica, enquanto os caracteres merísticos foram constantes, indicando correlações fracas ou negativas (r 0,50; p > 0,05) com o CT. Portanto, de acordo com nossos resultados, existe uma relação direta entre o CT dos peixes e todos os caracteres morfométricos, que foram considerados os melhores indicadores de crescimento do padrão alométrico positivo em peixes. Além disso, a análise do teste t de duas amostras revelou (teste t; p > 0,05) que nenhum dimorfismo sexual foi relatado em A. vari. Assim, o presente estudo pode ser valioso na classificação sistemática, dimorfismo sexual e manejo dessa espécie na costa de Karachi.

Discrimination of cryptic species: Tabanus triangulum and Tabanus occidentalis (Diptera: Tabanidae) differ in size and shape / Distinção de espécies crípticas: Tabanus triangulum e Tabanus occidentalis (Diptera: Tabanidae) diferem em tamanho e forma

Abstract Horse fly females (Diptera, Tabanidae) are hematophagous and can vector pathogens that affect livestock. Complexes of cryptic species are common in Tabanidae, as exemplified by some species of Tabanus, including Tabanus triangulum and Tabanus occidentalis, both prevalent in the Southern region of Brazil. In this study, geometric morphometrics were employed to ascertain the wing venation in species identification. It was demonstrated that this tool effectively differentiates T. triangulum from T. occidentalis in the coastal plain of Rio Grande do Sul state, situated within the Pampa biome. The results indicate that T. triangulum and T. occidentalis occupy distinct regions of the morphological space, allowing their precise identification through geometric morphometrics, which is fast, affordable, and easy to implement.

Resumo Fêmeas de mutucas (Diptera, Tabanidae) são hematófagas e podem ser vetores de patógenos que afetam animais de criação. Complexos de espécies crípticas são comuns em Tabanidae, como exemplificado por algumas espécies de Tabanus, incluindo Tabanus triangulum e Tabanus occidentalis, ambas prevalentes na região Sul do Brasil. Neste estudo foi utilizada morfometria geométrica para avaliar a venação das asas na identificação de espécies. Foi demonstrada que essa ferramenta diferencia, efetivamente, T. triangulum de T. occidentalis na Planície Costeira do Rio Grande do Sul, situada no bioma Pampa. Os resultados indicam que T. triangulum e T. occidentalis ocupam regiões distintas do espaço morfológico, permitindo sua identificação precisa por meio da morfometria geométrica, a qual é rápida, acessível e fácil de implementar.

Preventive effects of resveratrol against early-life impairments in the animal model of autism induced by valproic acid.

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social interaction deficits and repetitive/stereotyped behaviors. Its prevalence is increasing, affecting one in 36 children in the United States. The valproic acid (VPA) induced animal model of ASD is a reliable method for investigating cellular, molecular, and behavioral aspects related to the disorder. Trans-Resveratrol (RSV), a polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects studied in various diseases, has recently demonstrated the ability to prevent cellular, molecular, sensory, and social deficits in the VPA model. In this study, we examined the effects of prenatal exposure to VPA and the potential preventive effects of RSV on the offspring. Method: We monitored gestational weight from embryonic day 6.5 until 18.5 and assessed the onset of developmental milestones and morphometric parameters in litters. The generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to analyze longitudinal data. Results: Exposure to VPA during rat pregnancy resulted in abnormal weight gain fold-changes on embryonic days 13.5 and 18.5, followed by fewer animals per litter. Additionally, we discovered a positive correlation between weight variation during E15.5-E18.5 and the number of rat pups in the VPA group. Conclusion: VPA exposure led to slight length deficiencies and delays in the onset of developmental milestones. Interestingly, the prenatal RSV treatment not only prevented most of these delays but also led to the early onset of certain milestones and improved morphometric characteristics in the offspring. In summary, our findings suggest that RSV may have potential as a therapeutic intervention to protect against the negative effects of prenatal VPA exposure, highlighting its importance in future studies of prenatal neurodevelopmental disorders.

Effects of Alternative Cassava and Taro Feed on the Carcass and Meat Quality of Fattening Pigs Reared under Ecuadorian Backyard Systems.

Ecuadorian small producers use crossbred animals with a low level of genetic improvement, which are fed with alternative feeds to decrease production costs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of geographical location and three diets according to the amount of cassava and taro incorporated into the feed (T1 conventional feed; T2 and T3 with 32% and 42% of cassava and taro, respectively) in pigs reared under the backyard system. The results did not show many differences between the treatments for morphological traits; however, between geographical locations, significant differences were evidenced. The fat content from the first rib was higher in the T1 group. The intramuscular fat percentage was higher in the T1 group, contrary to the protein levels, which were higher in the T3 group in Esmeraldas and the T2 group in Ro Chico. In the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and its attached organs, differences were found in the empty stomach weight, full and empty small intestine weight, liver weight, and total GIT weight, with the T2 and T3 groups having the largest and heaviest. Cassava and taro did not affect the morphometric behavior and quality of the carcass but increased the amount of protein in the meat and the weight of the GIT. Geographical location was also observed to have a significant effect.

Same species, different population dynamics: Spatio-temporal differences of Undaria pinnatifida (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) in the intertidal of North Patagonia, Argentina.

Population dynamics can be influenced by physical and biological factors, particularly in stressful environments. Introduced species usually have great physiological plasticity, resulting in populations with different traits. Undaria pinnatifida, a macroalga originally described from northeast Asia, was introduced in Northern Patagonia, Argentina (San Matías Gulf) around 2010. To describe the spatio-temporal variability in population structure and morphometry of U. pinnatifida, we conducted monthly field samplings for 2 years at the intertidal area of two contrasting sites in the San Matías Gulf. Individuals of U. pinnatifida were classified by developmental stage, and their morpho-gravimetric variables were measured. In both intertidal sites juveniles were found in higher proportion during austral autumn and grew and matured during the autumn-winter months (from May onwards), and individuals senesced during early austral summer (December and January). Conversely, density and biomass were largely different between sites, and individuals showed slight morphological variability between sites. Environmental (e.g., nutrient concentration, available substrate) and biological factors (e.g., facilitation, competition) may explain the observed differences. Since there is not a macroalga with U. pinnatifida morphometrical characteristics in the intertidal environments of San Matías Gulf, studying this recent introduction gives us a better understanding of its potential ecological effects.

Benefits of Chronic Administration of a Carbohydrate-Free Diet on Biochemical and Morphometric Parameters in a Rat Model of Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome.

Carbohydrate intake restriction positively affects markers related to metabolic syndrome (MS). However, the effects of long-term carbohydrate-free diets (CFD) have yet to be studied. The main objective of this study was to report the effects on biochemical and morphometric parameters in a rat model of MS. Male Wistar rats were initially divided into two groups: the standard diet group (SD, n = 20); and the MS group (n = 30) fed a high-glucose diet. Ten animals from each group were sacrificed after 20 weeks on their respective diets to verify MS development. The remaining MS animals were divided into two subgroups: one continued with the MS diet (n = 10); and the other transitioned to a carbohydrate-free diet (MS + CFD group, n = 10) for 20 more weeks. At week 40, parameters, including glucose, insulin, lipid profile, ketone bodies, C-reactive protein (CRP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, creatinine, liver and muscle glycogen, and serum, hepatic, renal, and pancreatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were assessed. Transitioning to CFD resulted in decreased caloric intake and body weight, with normalized parameters including MDA, insulin, lipid profile, ALT, liver glycogen, creatinine, and CRP levels. This shift effectively reversed the MS-induced alterations, except for glycemia and uremia, likely influenced by the diet's high protein content stimulating gluconeogenesis. This research underscores the potential benefits of long-term carbohydrate restriction in mitigating MS-related markers.

Influence of Obesity and Changes in Weight or BMI on Incident Fractures in Postmenopausal Women: From Peking Vertebral Fracture Study.

This study aims to investigate the influence of overweight/obesity and change in weight or body mass index (BMI) on incident fractures among Chinese postmenopausal women. According to BMI, 754 postmenopausal women were categorized into normal weight (NW), overweight (OW), and obesity (OB) groups, respectively. We used data from the baseline and the second survey for statistical analysis, including anthropometric data, clinical fractures, and morphometric vertebral fractures (MVFs) assessed by X-rays. The prevalence of previous MVFs was 32.7% and 21.8% in the OB and NW groups, respectively (p < 0.05). All incident fractures and incident MVFs accounted for 10.7 and 6.3% among all participants within five years. Overweight/obesity and increase in weight or BMI during the follow-up had no associations with all incident fractures, incident MVFs, and incident clinical non-VFs among all participants. However, after multivariate adjustment, the increased BMI at baseline was the risk factor of incident MVFs in the OW group (odds ratio, OR 2.06, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 1.16-3.66, p = 0.014), and increase in weight (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.79-0.99, p = 0.036) or BMI (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.59-0.99, p = 0.045) during the follow-up were the protective factors of all incident fractures in the NW group. Overweight/obesity and change in weight or BMI do not correlate with fracture risk in postmenopausal women, but an increase in weight is the protective factor against incident fractures in normal-weight participants. Overweight postmenopausal women with a higher BMI should pay attention to the risk of MVFs.

Facial morphometric differences across face databases: influence of ethnicities and sex.

The scientific need for standardized, high-quality facial stimuli has driven the creation of several face image databases in recent years. These stimuli are particularly important in facial asymmetry research. However, previous studies have reported facial anthropometric differences across a variety of ethnicities. This highlights the need to investigate whether these differences can also impact the use of face image databases, particularly in facial asymmetry research. In this study, we investigated facial asymmetry-based morphometric differences between the multi-ethnic Chicago Face Database (CFD) and the LACOP Face Database, which is composed of Brazilian subjects. We found reliable differences in facial asymmetry between the two databases, which were related to ethnic groups. Specifically, differences in eye and mouth asymmetry seem to drive these differences. The asymmetry-based morphometric differences among databases and ethnicities found in this study reinforce the necessity of creating multi-ethnic face databases.

Phenotypic Characterization of Creole Cattle in the Andean Highlands Using Bio-Morphometric Measures and Zoometric Indices.

Several Creole cattle biotypes can be found in the Andean highlands, and most of them are considered as being in risk of extinction. The main aim of the present study was to perform a phenotypic characterization of the Creole cattle in the Andean highlands using bio-morphometric measures and zoometric indices. Individuals from three different biotypes (Black 'Negro' (n = 57), Colour-Sided 'Callejón' (n = 20), and Brindle 'Atigrado' (n = 18)) from an experimental research center located in the Peruvian highlands were enrolled in the study. In total, seventeen morphometric parameters were evaluated and ten zoometric indices were calculated in each biotype. To test the relationship between biometric traits, correlation analyses were carried out between morphometric parameters. Differences were observed regarding different morphometric variables such as head length (HL) and rump length (RL) among cattle biotypes (p ≤ 0.05). The coefficient of variation (CV; %) regarding different morphometric parameters ranged between 11.32 for neck length (NL) and 3.63 for height at withers (HaW), which indicated low-moderate variability among morphometric variables. Differences were observed in the longitudinal pelvic index (LPI) when different zoometric indices were compared among biotypes (p ≤ 0.05). The CV regarding different zoometric indices, which ranged between 10.78 for the cephalic index (CEI) and 5.05 for LPI, indicated low variability among indices. No differences were observed in any other morphometric parameter or zoometric index among cattle biotypes or genders (p > 0.05). Finally, multiple correlations were observed between morphometric variables (p ≤ 0.05). In conclusion, it was determined that Peruvian Andean Creole cattle can be considered as a dairy-related biotype with a slight tendency for beef production (dual-purpose). The great homogeneity regarding zoometric characteristics among biotypes and genders may indicate that the Andean Creole cattle have been maintained quite isolated, avoiding the genetic influence of other foreign breeds. Finally, the phenotypic characterization including bio-morphometric measurements and zoometric indices obtained from the different Creole bovine biotypes is crucial in order to begin different conservation programs to preserve cattle breeds in the Peruvian Andean highlands.

Bioaccumulation and potential impacts of persistent organic pollutants and contaminants of emerging concern in guitarfishes and angelsharks from Southeastern Brazil.

The present study aimed to determine persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and contaminants of emerging concern in endangered angelshark and guitarfish species from southeastern Brazil, and to investigate potential impacts of these compounds on morphometric indexes. Pesticides of emerging concern, pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were determined in hepatic and muscular tissues of Pseudobatos horkelii, P. percellens, Squatina guggenheim, and Zapteryx brevirostris obtained from artisanal and industrial fisheries operating in southeastern Brazil. Accumulation profiles and effects of contaminants on condition factor and hepatosomatic index were investigated. No differences were detected regarding species contaminant concentration, potentially due to similarities in habits, occurrence and trophic position shared by guitarfishes and angelsharks. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (23.2-495.3 ng g -1), and PPCPs such as diclofenac (