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Peromyscus sonoriensis is a widespread species ranging from southern Texas to the Yukon, from the Mississippi to the Pacific. Because of this extensive range, there are substantial differences in morphology due to variation in temperature, precipitation, and habitat. We used 2 data sets (n = 4,840 and n = 20,175) to study morphological differences of their crania and appendages. Consistent with Allen's rule (shorter appendages with colder temperature), both data sets show a strong, positive, correlation between tail length and the average January temperature. However, there was an equally strong, but negative, correlation between tail length and average July temperature. We observed similar results for feet and crania. Ear length had a significant negative correlation with July average temperature but no correlation with January average temperature. When we controlled for temperature, cranial and appendage length increased with latitude, which was opposite of what we expected. Furthermore, longitude had a strong impact as mice trapped further west had longer appendages. When divided into habitats, forest deer mice are more likely than prairie or desert deer mice to demonstrate morphological responses to differences in climate, location, and year trapped. Our results show that P. sonoriensis exhibit notable morphological variation linked to location, habitat, and climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe two new caecilian species of the genus Caecilia (Gymnophiona: Caeciliidae) from the wet tropical Chocó Forest, north-western Ecuador. We applied an integrative taxonomic approach, taking into consideration external morphology, osteology from intensive ct-scanning, and molecular phylogenetic analyses. The two new species were compared to all other Caecilia species, known to occur west of the Ecuadorian and Colombian Andes. The new taxa can be distinguished by their external morphological characters, as well as by their osteology, genetic divergence, and phylogenetic relationships. The two new species, although morphologically quite different, were closely related. Caecilia tesoro sp. n. is a large-bodied, robust species with a unique colour pattern in larger individuals. In contrast, Caecilia truncata sp. n. is a smaller caeciliid and sister to medium-sized C. volcani, a species known from Panama. Morphologically, C. truncata sp. n. is best recognized by a very truncated snout shape. As know from many previously recognized neotropical caeciliids, both new species are likely endemic to small ranges, here the humid tropical lowland to mid-altitude forests of western Ecuador. Both new species seem to tolerate some degree of habitat degradation. Our new findings support to intensify research and conservation activities in one of South America's most diverse but severely endangered biomes. We also present, for the first time, some clues of the phylogenetic position of elongated C. nigricans and C. leucocephala. Caecilia nigricans was sister to a clade composed of one Oscaecilia and ten species of Caecilia. This topology rendered the genus Caecilia paraphyletic relative to Oscaecilia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the first report of the Peruvian Fiddler Crab, Leptuca tallanica (von Hagen, 1968), in Panama. The species identification from two sites in the Parita Gulf was confirmed by the presence of a moderately wide front, comma-shaped patches of pile on the male carapace, a pilous triangular depression at the base of the pollex, and a strong, tuberculate projection subdistally on the pollex. Our findings extend the previously known distribution range in the eastern Pacific from southern Ecuador and northern Peru northward to Panama. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Home range is an ecological concept that affects many aspects of the life of vertebrates and hence understanding how it varies between species is crucial. Mammalian home range size has been linked to body size and diet, but these studies were based predominantly on terrestrial species and most specifically excluded bats. As the only group of flying mammals, bats experience distinctly different constraints on movement, and hence home range. However, despite their diversity, relatively little is known about the home ranges of bats, and this is the first global review assessing correlates of their home range size. Our hypothesis is that home range will be impacted by different ecological conditions experienced by the bats and by the biological traits of the bats themselves. We performed a meta-analysis based on published data for 81 bat species to identify variables that contribute most to home range size. Sex, wing loading, functional group, colony size, dietary class, distance from the equator (latitudinal region), habitat type, and the interaction between habitat type and latitudinal region were all important explanatory variables. Wing loading was positively correlated with home range size—while females, open-air foragers, large colony sizes, and bats in temperate regions consistently had large home ranges. Understanding the correlates of home range has important implications, for example, for bat conservation and for assessing the risk of spillover of zoonotic pathogens from bats to humans and livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomy teaching has been changing over the years, introducing technological methods especially after the pandemic period. An ongoing debate revolves around whether exclusive reliance on technology for anatomy classes, as opposed to traditional methods and face-to-face instruction, enhances knowledge acquisition. This study analyzed the knowledge perception of students from various semesters throughout the Veterinary Medicine course, comparing students who only had online classes with those who had face-to-face classes in Gross Anatomy of Domestic Animals. For this purpose, a questionnaire was distributed for voluntary and anonymous completion, and the responses were subsequently analyzed statistically. The results indicated that 11.5% of the students who took Anatomy remotely failed to apply the knowledge in other subjects, while no face-to-face learning student reported the same. Most students, both remote and face-to-face groups, remember the subject but review the content frequently. Regarding theoretical knowledge, the online group (80.8%) understood better as the course progressed, compared to 59.6% of the faceto-face group. The connection between Anatomy and other subjects was more highlighted by the face-to-face group (30.8%) compared to the online group (15.4%). Both groups agree that physical contact with anatomical specimens is essential; however, some believe that initial exposure through 3D images or photographs is feasible. We concluded based on this preliminary study that the initial interactions with the Anatomy field should include diversified pedagogical techniques with empathetic communication. The use of modern technological resources are allies in the teaching-learning process. Furthermore, after abstracting the contents, technology alone can effectively maintain and update anatomical knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological dimensions are reliable representations of the functioning, growth, and development of the skeletal- muscular system, defining a significant role in the sport of volleyball. In volleyball, it is imperative to identify the anthropometric constitution generated by endogenous and exogenous factors. The aim of the study was to determine the differences in morphological characteristics between junior and senior members of the BIH national team. The sample of respondents included 29 male volleyball players from the national team of BIH, divided into a subsample of seniors (n=13; Body Height = 194.77 ± 7.01 cm; Body weight = 92.92 ± 7.02 kg) and a subsample of juniors (n=16, Body Height = 197.06±4.65cm; Body weight = 83.19±5.15 kg). Thirteen (13) variables of anthropometric space were measured. Anthropometric measurements were conducted following the ISAK standard procedure guidelines. The standard metric instruments were applied: Stadiometer (SECA 213, Germany) - used for measuring body height; Body mass was measured by a digital scale (Tefal/0-160kg); Circumference measurements were measured with a foldable non-elastic tape measure and a Gullick Tape (Baseline Measurement Tape/300cm) and a Calliper measured skin folds. The T-test results revealed statistically significant differences (approximately 54%) between the senior and junior players in various anthropometric measurements, including weight (T=4.307, p<0.001), leg length (T= - 4.251, p<0.001), hand length (T=2.661, p<0.015), upper arm circumference (T= 4.514, p<0.001), forearm circumference (T=5.275, p<0.001), upper arm skinfold (T= 5.741, p<0.001), and abdominal skinfold (T= 3.098, p<0.009). The male volleyball national team of VIH's senior players displayed superior anthropometric attributes compared to their junior counterparts. Identifying discrepancies at an early stage can optimize both the training regimen and the process of selecting players at a young age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Learning the meaning of words entails also understanding the meaning of the morphemes in them. With the goal of providing evidence on the learning of new morphemes at very young ages, for this study we designed a preferential attention task with the participation of children aged 18, 24 and 30 months. During the training, they were presented with objects that had a wavy or straight cutout, with each kind of cutout associated with a pseudo-morpheme (-sa or -go) in a set of pseudo-words. In each phase of the trial, both kinds of cutouts were presented in new objects as the children listened to a new pseudo-word with one of the pseudo-morphemes in which they had been trained. The results indicated that the children were able to associate the pseudo-morpheme -go with its referent, especially at 18 and 30 months old. The possible effects of whether or not the morphemes in the task are regular are discussed; however, evidence was found in favour of the children having the ability to identify a new morpheme and associate it with its meaning, a fundamental skill in learning morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the rediscovery, a century after its last record, of two specimens of Pristimantis ruidus from approximately 6 km northeast of its type locality, in a montane forest from the western Andes of southern Ecuador. This species, described by John D. Lynch in 1979, based on specimens collected in 1922 by George H. Tate, was previously known only from the type series, all specimens originating from a single locality (Molleturo, Provincia Azuay, Ecuador, 2317 m elev.). The rediscovery occurred in November 2022 in the Reserva de Conservación Quitahuaycu, Molleturo Parish, Azuay Province. The two specimens, both females, are characterised by rough skin with numerous rounded low warts and tubercles on their dorsum, a W-shaped occipital fold, tympanum and tympanic ring not externally visible and by the lack of cranial crests, characters that correspond with the description of the holotype. We evaluate the phylogenetic relationships, based on two mitochondrial genes (12S and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear gene (RAG-1). These analyses reveal Pristimantis ruidus as a member of the subgenus Huicundomantis, being most closely related to P. philipi, a species with a distribution restricted to the paramo of the same mountain region (Macizo del Cajas). Pristimantis ruidus co-exists with Pristimantis jimenezi, three additional species of Pristimantis and one Noblella with uncertain taxonomic status. This rediscovery underscores the urgency of implementing effective conservation and monitoring measures for the few remnants of the original ecosystems from western Ecuador, which face ongoing anthropogenic threats and harbour a diversity that remains insufficiently studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge regarding the early life history of neotropical fish, although incipient, is crucial for the accurate identification of larvae collected from the natural environment. Such details are important for defining spawning, drift, and nursery areas as well as the reproductive periods of species. Herein, the larval development of Cynodon gibbus was described using morphological, meristic, and morphometric characteristics. Specimens were collected from open water limnetic zones and under macrophyte stands in the Amazon basin from 2010 to 2023. Forty-eight larvae with standard lengths ranging from 5.73 to 21.57 mm were studied. The larvae have a long to very long body, small eyes, and a small head, which progresses to a moderate size in the preflexion stage. Furthermore, the larvae had ample mouths with numerous conical teeth, an oval-triangular swim bladder, overlapping dorsal and anal fins, and the tip of the pectoral fin not reaching the swim bladder. Pigmentation pattern comprised two punctate pigments above the fontanelle, the rectum, and at the lower and upper ends of the caudal peduncle. Various body parts exhibited predominant allometric relationships, reflecting differential developmental rates among them in response to fundamental ecological requirements for survival. The C. gibbus larvae can be identified by a combination of the position of dorsal, anal and pectoral fins, pigmentation pattern, swim bladder shape, and the total number of myomeres (51 to 53). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resveratrol (RES) and quercetine (QRC), is a promising agent relevant for both cancer chemoprevention and treatment via several signaling pathways, involved in their anticancer activity related to its chemotherapeutic potential, associated with the induction of ROS generation in cancer cells, leading to apoptosis. In our study, we have summarized the mechanisms of action of RES and QRC, and their pharmacological implications and potential therapeutic applications in cancer therapy. After treatment of Hep 2 cells with QRC or RES, the death pathways such as the cytochrome c release, ERK1/2 and IRS-1 pathways were upregulated, while cell survival pathway, including PI3K/AKT were downregulated. The RES and QRC caused oncosis, cells hypertrophy, hypercondensatin of chromatin, rupture of the plasma membrane and nuclear membrane, and formation of apoptotic bodies. Morphometric measurements of some cellular and nuclear parameters showed that RES and QRC induced an increase in cells and nuclear size, the nucleocytoplasmic ratio remained below 1 (N-Cyt R < 1), sign of low nuclear activity. The RES and QRC induced apoptosis of Hep2 cells by increasing of oxidative stress markers, MDA, and by modulating detoxifying enzymes, CAT and SOD. Our study results prove antiproliferative and proapoptotic properties of quercetin and resveratrol with regard to larynx cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A morphological study of S. boneti (Parisi, 1972) and its intraspecific variation is presented, providing a complete description with drawings, and photos. New records for this and other species are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study investigated the relationship between radiological morphological findings and hormone levels in patients with empty sella.

Przedmiotem artykułu jest produktywność kaszubskich interiekcji jako bazy derywacyjnej. Zgromadzono i zbadano wszystkie aktywne słowotwórczo interiekcje odnotowane w Słowniku gwar kaszubskich na tle kultury ludowej Bernarda Sychty. Wskazano najważniejsze tendencje słowotwórcze w ramach omawianego zbioru, określono realizowane modele słowotwórcze, bogaty materiał kaszubski zilustrowano przykładami wybranych gniazd słowotwórczych. Stwierdzono, iż kaszubskie wykrzykniki są ważnym składnikiem podsystemu leksykalno-słowotwórczego, wykazując się znaczną aktywnością i budując łańcuchy oraz gniazda słowotwórcze.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever a morfologia polínica de 11 espécies de Asteraceae ocorrentes na restinga da APA Rio Capivara, Litoral Norte do estado da Bahia. Os grãos de pólen foram acetolisados, mensurados, tratados estatisticamente, fotomicrografados e descritos sob microscopia de luz. Os grãos de pólen analisados variaram entre pequenos e médios, predominantemente com forma oblato-esferoidal, menos frequentemente prolato-esferoidal e esférica. O âmbito dos grãos de pólen variou de (sub)circular a subtriangular. Em relação ao tipo apertural, todos apresentaram cólporos em número de três, com ectoaberturas longas, estreitas e largas, extremidades afiladas, endoaberturas lalongadas a circulares, lolongadas em Lepidaploa mucronifolia (DC.) H. Rob. A exina é predominantemente equinada, com presença de cávea em algumas espécies, e lofada apenas em L. mucronifolia. Deste modo, as características observadas demonstraram variabilidade polínica entre espécies de diferentes tribos, corroborando a condição euripolínica atribuída à Asteraceae.

THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE MARKER OF DEGREE -SZ-/-EJSZ- Polish comparative of adjectives is marked by suffix -sz-, which has a variant -ejsz-. The distribution of the two variants is a matter of debate. Whereas there is no doubt that only -sz- can occur after stems ending with a single consonant, consonant clusters generally require the extended form. Still, there is a number of clusters which can be followed by the shorter form, which is often (at least implicitly) considered basic. There were numerous attempts to precisely define the contexts governing the distribution of the two variants, often connecting it to the sonority scale. We suggest that it is rather the distribution of the shorter form, which is more restricted, namely it may follow only a cluster of two consonants ending with a stop, or a single consonant. At the same time, any cluster can be followed by the longer form. Therefore, in the reminder of the article we examine the frequency of the longer forms following the clusters ending with a stop or affricate, which prove to be attested for a number of adjectives, however they are very rare. The article is based on large bodies of data, namely a morphological dictionary with over 1000 morphologically gradable adjectives (Polimorf) and three corpora.

Antecedentes: La integración de la tecnología en la educación médica ha transformado significativamente la enseñanza de la morfología, una disciplina fundamental en las ciencias de la salud. El objetivo de esta revisión sistemática es descubrir las herramientas tecnológicas que se reportan en la literatura para la enseñanza de la morfología en la educación médica y evaluar su influencia en los estudiantes. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemática siguiendo las directrices PRISMA 2020. Las búsquedas se realizaron en las bases de datos Web of Science y SCOPUS, enfocándose en estudios publicados entre 2009 y 2024. Se incluyeron artículos que examinaran el uso de la tecnología en la enseñanza de la morfología y que proporcionaran resultados cuantitativos o cualitativos comparando el uso de tecnología con métodos tradicionales. Resultados: Se identificaron un total de 87 artículos, de los cuales 12 estudios fueron incluidos en el análisis final. El uso de microscopios digitales y virtuales, modelos 3D, plataformas interactivas y recursos en línea mostró una mejora significativa en el rendimiento académico y la satisfacción de los estudiantes. Además, estas tecnologías mejoraron las habilidades técnicas y espaciales, promoviendo la participación activa y la autonomía estudiantil. Sin embargo, dos estudios no reportaron diferencias significativas en los resultados académicos. Conclusiones: La literatura reporta una influencia positiva en el aprendizaje de la morfología, mejorando aspectos como rendimiento académico y la participación estudiantil. Las futuras investigaciones deberían enfocarse en los impactos a largo plazo y en enfoques personalizados para optimizar el uso de la tecnología en la educación médica.

As a result of the collection of ferns and lycophytes in the Huasteca potosina of Mexico, a new species of Adiantum is described and illustrated. Adiantum aquismonense has morphological and anatomical features that distinguish it from Adiantum tricholepis and Adiantum feei. In particular, A. aquismonense has reddish-brown hairs and its geographical distribution tends towards the slope of the Gulf of Mexico. In contrast, A. tricholepis has hyaline hairs, and while A. feei has reddish hairs similar in color to those of the new species, they are shorter. All three species are found in Mexico. Anatomically, the fusion of vascular bundles of the petiole in A. aquismonense occurs distally in the petiole, whereas in A. tricholepis it occurs in the middle of the petiole. The spongy parenchyma of the leaves is more compact in A. tricholepis than in A. aquismonense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The third instar larvae of Chlaenobia rzedowskiana Aragón y Morón 2003 are described from 16 specimens that were reared in the laboratory from larvae captured in a sorghum field in the Jantetelco, Morelos, Mexico. The diagnostic characters were compared with those of Chlaenobia tumulosa. Resumen Se describe la larva de tercer instar de Chlaenobia rzedowskiana Aragón y Morón, 2003, de 16 ejemplares criados en un laboratorio a partir de larvas colectadas en sorgo en el municipio Jantetelco, Morelos, México. Los caracteres diagnósticos se comparan con Chlaenobia tumulosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Lilloa is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The genus Glassella had never been formally recorded in Brazil. Coelho (1996, 1997) assigned specimens collected in northeastern Brazil, in the states of Maranhão and Pernambuco, to Pinnixa floridana , a species that was recently allocated to Glassella and had its rediagnosis proposed. The reassessment of the material analysed by Coelho and the study of three additional specimens collected during an offshore expedition in the state of Espírito Santo resulted in the discovery and description of a new species and the recognition of another undescribed species of Glassella in Brazilian waters. The new species is herein named G. schubarti sp. nov., in honour of the late Christoph D. Schubart, who has made many important contributions to the study of evolution and diversity of brachyuran crabs. These species represent the southernmost records of the genus and the first species of Glassella described from Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Aegla is described and illustrated from Alto Paranapanema (São Paulo State), a sub-basin of the Paranapanema watershed. The new species is compared to all seven species of Aegla currently known from the Paranapanema watershed using both morphological and mitochondrial genetic (COI) characters. Molecular sequence comparison analysis also suggested that several records from the Paranapanema watershed previously attributed to Aegla castro actually belong to different species. Opportunity is taken to provide a photograph of the holotype of A. castro (type locality Iapó River, State of Paraná, Tibagi sub-basin, Paranapanema watershed). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dorsal interosseous muscles (DIM) are intrinsic muscles of the hand located dorsally between metacarpal bones, which play a role in finger abduction. Anatomical variations of these muscles in terms of form and length have been well documented, but variations regarding sex and laterality are underexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate the morphology and morphometry of the DIM of the hand regarding sexual dimorphism and laterality. Twenty human cadavers belonging to the white individuals (n = 40 hands) with known sex and laterality were used for this study. DIMs were dissected and observed for morphology. Also, a digital calliper was used to measure the midpoint length of the DIM. The origin and insertion of all the DIM were normal with the left hand having no additional, supernumerary, and absent muscles in each compartment. The variations were only found on the right side and predominant in females: 2 out of 11 (18.18%) hands containing a space with a supernumerary muscle; 1 out of 11 (9.09%) hands having a space with a double muscle; and 1 out of 11 (9.09%) hands having a compartment with a unipennate muscle. In males, 1 out of 9 (11.11%) hands had a compartment with a supernumerary muscle. The mean midpoint length of each muscle in females and males in both hands from the first to the fourth muscle, respectively, was documented. In females on the left: 46.79 ± 3.56; 42.62 ± 3.57; 49.02 ± 4.21; 41.66 ± 2.15 and right: 47.30 ± 2.49; 39.27 ± 4.14; 45.69 ± 4.64; 38.12 ± 4.08. In males, it was on the left: 50.01 ± 3.95; 41.98 ± 3.79; 47.90 ± 4.83; 41.79 ± 4.25, and on the right: 46.65 ± 2.09; 39.01 ± 4.25; 47.47 ± 3.41; 38.31 ± 4.40. The mean midpoint length of the DIM was relatively higher on the left hand compared to the right hand in both females and males. In this study, variations regarding the supernumerary muscle, double interosseous space, and unipennate muscles were only observed on the right-hand side and predominantly in females, an insight that may guide in the treatment of fractures, stiffness of the hand, and compartment syndromes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anterior loop in the mental foramen region is a critical region in the mandible. The non detection of anterior loop leads to inadvertent complications during the surgical procedures in this region. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological assessment of the mental foramen's anterior loop (AL) using (CBCT) cone-beam computed tomography. CBCT data was retrieved from January 2018 to December 2022 and screened for eligibility. Images were viewed using panoramic reconstructed views for initial screening. Further multiplanar reformatted view in axial, coronal and sagittal planes were examined. When anterior loop was detected, the path of inferior alveolar canal was traced and the anterior loop was analyzed. Statistical analysis was carried out on the data. Cross-tabulation was done to associate gender and age with the achieved findings (heights and diameters) using the Chi-square test. In this analysis 519 cases were included and examined for presence of anterior loop. 22 cases were included in the study, out of which 10(45.5%) males and 12(54.5%) females. The prevalence of AL is high among females. AL was found higher on the right side in 14 (68.2%) cases compared to the left side with 7 (31.8%) cases. The mean diameter of AL on the right side was 2.5 mm, and on the left side diameter was 1.96 mm. The prevalence of anterior loop in the region of mental foramen in Saudi Population was found to be 4.24%. Careful evaluation for the anterior loop can prevent hemorrhagic episodes during surgical intervention or implant procedures in the mandibular premolar region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue engineering aims to fabricate a scaffold that exhibits a suitable surface topography for a desired cellular response. Therefore, a study analyzing the characteristics of bone grafts is important for future research directions. This work aims to analyze the physical-chemical characteristics of commercially available bone grafts of human and bovine origin for dental use, using morphological analysis of the surface and chemical composition by variable pressure scanning electron microscope (VPSEM) and energy-dispersive x-ray (EDX) spectrometry. In addition, pore diameter and surface area were analyzed by degassing method using a porosimeter, and particle size by laser diffraction. The analyzed allograft and xenograft particles differ in morphological characteristics and chemical composition. The allograft particles present a cuboidal and prismatic geometric morphology with angled edges and the absence of macropores. On the contrary, the xenograft particles present an irregular morphology with macropores in their structure. There is a statistically significant difference in C, P, and Ca between the xenograft and allografts (p < 0,05). The analyzed composition of allografts showed mainly the presence of C and O. In contrast, the composition of the xenograft was mainly Ca. These differences could influence the osteogenic properties of allografts and xenografts. This analysis provides basic information to understand the physicochemical properties of allografts and xenografts that facilitate cell-graft interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gaceta Médica de Caracas is the property of Academia Nacional de Medicina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introducción y objetivos: Las Sierras Pampeanas Centrales de Argentina constituyen el cuarto centro de diversidad de licofitas y helechos del Cono Sur, donde habitan representantes de cuatro familias de Licofitas: Huperziaceae, Lycopodiaceae, Isoetaceae y Selaginellaceae. El objetivo de este trabajo es aportar datos sobre la morfología de las esporas observadas con microscopios óptico y electrónico de barrido como contribución a la taxonomía y conservación. M&M: El material fue analizado sin tratamiento químico previo y se obtuvieron registros fotográficos con ambos equipos de observación. Resultados: Se presentan las características diagnósticas de la morfología de las esporas. Las Huperziaceae y Lycopodiaceae son isosporadas con esporas triletes. Huperziaceae presenta esporas foveoladas o fosuladas, mientras que en las Lycopodiaceae las esporas son reticuladas, escabradas y baculadas. En Isoetes hieronymi (heterosporada), las microsporas son monoletes con ornamentación equinada, en tanto que las megasporas son triletes, con ornamentación reticulada. Las Selaginellaceae, todas heterosporadas, producen microsporas y megasporas triletes, ambas con ornamentación variada. Conclusiones: Las características de las esporas aportan información relevante para estudios florísticos regionales así como para asignaciones taxonómicas, tanto de la flora actual como de registros fósiles. También, para estudios de la composición de los bancos de esporas del suelo como herramienta para la conservación de la biodiversidad florística local

Copyright of Bitácora Urbano/Territorial is the property of Bitacora Urbano/Territorial and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The harlequin toads (Bufonidae, Atelopus) from the Cordillera Occidental of Colombia are poorly understood, with several species being known only from few specimens and a single locality. Material from the Yotoco area, Departamento Valle del Cauca, has been addressed in previous studies and was allocated ambiguously to different available names. We here describe the Yotoco Atelopus as a species new to science as it is readily distinguished from all congenerics by a combination of morphological characters (i.e., snout profile, cranial crests, skin texture, pattern and coloration). In addition, we comment on the taxonomy of three Atelopus populations from the Cordillera Occidental and the Cordillera Central of Colombia; two of them we tentatively assign to A. nicefori and A. sonsonensis, respectively. The third one remains of unclear status. The need for further examination of the harlequin toads from the Andes of Colombia in an integrative taxonomic framework is emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the lapillus otolith shapes of males and females of Scleromystax barbatus from southern and southeastern regions in the Atlantic Rainforest biome employing Fourier and Wavelet descriptors. The utricular otoliths of S. barbatus are ovoid, with the gibbus maculae occupying almost all the ventral portion, similar to most Callichthyidae species. Otoliths of males and females of S. barbatus from the southeastern studied region are more elongated in the anterior-posterior direction and present larger sulcus and gibbus maculae, with heterogeneous borders. We found no sexual-based dimorphism in otolith shape within regions, however regional differences were registered and attributed to variations in fish life history mediated by differences in environmental factors (e.g., climatic conditions) between the southern and southeastern regions in the Atlantic Rainforest biome. Additional studies are suggested to investigate the influence of genetic effects and their environmental interactions to better understand how these factors are related with otolith shape and influence the discrimination among S. barbatus populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic entomotoxicology, which analyzes necrophagous insects to detect toxic substances, is crucial in determining causes of death and estimating the post-mortem interval. This study focused on Peckia intermutans (Walker) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) as a marker for detecting methanol, a potentially lethal alcohol often added as an adulterant in alcoholic beverages due to its low cost and similarity to ethanol. A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) method was developed to detect methanol, and its effects on the development time, survival, and morphology of flesh flies were investigated. Larvae were reared on liver substrates enriched with methanol (300, 500, and 1000 mg/kg). Results showed: the developed method detected methanol in all instars; methanol affected the developmental time of the flies; survival increased with higher methanol concentration; and morphological changes were evident in weight. This study provides valuable information on entomotoxicological research in Ecuador, emphasizing the need to consider morphological changes in P. intermutans to avoid inaccurate estimations of post-mortem intervals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cabari Gregório & D.B.O.S.Cardoso (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae) is a recently described neotropical genus of trees, with species predominantly distributed in the Amazon basin. After robust evidence from a recent phylogenetic analysis of nuclear and plastid DNA sequence data, the genus was segregated from Clathrotropis (Benth.) Harms. Cabari is a genus of large trees with imparipinnately compound leaves and opposite leaflets, inflorescences terminal or less often axillary, woody pods with elastically dehiscent valves, and large seeds. In this taxonomic revision, the genus comprises three species: C. brachypetala, C. brunnea, and C. macrocarpa. We provide morphological descriptions and taxonomic comments for all species, as well as an identification key, three new synonyms, color plates, line drawings, and maps of geographic distribution. Cabari Gregório & D.B.O.S.Cardoso (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae) é um gênero de árvores neotropicais recentemente descrito, com espécies predominantemente distribuídas na bacia amazônica. Após evidências robustas de uma análise filogenética recente de dados de sequências de DNA nuclear e plastidial, o gênero foi segregado de Clathrotropis (Benth.) Harms. Cabari é um gênero de árvores grandes com folhas compostas imparipinadas e folíolos opostos, inflorescências terminais ou menos frequentemente axilares, legumes lenhosos com válvulas elasticamente deiscentes e sementes grandes. Nesta revisão taxonômica, o gênero compreende três espécies: C. brachypetala, C. brunnea e C. macrocarpa. Nós fornecemos descrições morfológicas e comentários taxonômicos para todas as espécies, bem como uma chave de identificação, três novos sinônimos, pranchas com imagens, ilustrações e mapas de distribuição geográfica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral nerve injury is an extremely important medical and socio-economic problem. It is far from a solution, despite on rapid development of technologies. To study the effect of long-term electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves, we used a domestically produced electrical stimulation system, which is approved for clinical use. The study was performed on 28 rabbits. Control of regeneration was carried out after 3 month with morphologic techniques. The use of long-term electrostimulation technology leads to an improvement in the results of the recovery of the nerve trunk after an injury, both directly at the site of damage, when stimulation begins in the early period, and indirectly, after the nerve fibers reach the effector muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Investigaciones Agroindustriales is the property of Revista Colombiana de Investigaciones Agroindustriales del Centro Agropecuario Sena Buga and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica is the property of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

La especie Jatropha curcas L. se destaca por su rápido crecimiento y su adaptabilidad a suelos degradados y secos. Esta investigación, realizada en la granja experimental Andil de la Universidad Estatal del Sur de Manabí, tuvo como objetivo recopilar información sobre las características morfológicas de seis genotipos seleccionados, incluyendo cuatro híbridos y dos clones de Jatropha curcas. Se plantaron 576 plantas en 24 subparcelas, asignando cuatro parcelas a cada genotipo. Durante 23 meses, se midieron variables como altura, diámetro del tallo y número de ramas en ocho plantas seleccionadas por subparcela. Se calcularon estadísticos descriptivos y se realizó una interpolación para períodos no estudiados. El híbrido JAT 001100 destacó con una altura promedio de 197,72 cm y un rango de 199,44 cm, seguido por el JAT 001103 con 193,9 cm. El diámetro del tallo no mostró diferencias significativas, oscilando entre 7 cm y 6,5 cm. Los híbridos JAT 001100, JAT 001103 y JAT 001165 presentaron un mayor número de ramas (promedio de 8 a 8,1). En general, los híbridos comerciales superaron a los clones locales en crecimiento y desarrollo. Estos hallazgos contribuyen al conocimiento de Jatropha curcas y pueden ser útiles para la selección de genotipos en programas de mejoramiento genético.

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar, por meio do aparato teórico-metodológico da Sintaxe Espacial, a configuração interna da casa modernista da Rua Santa Cruz, projetada em 1927 por Gregori Warchavchik (1896-1972), em contraponto com a posterior reforma empreendida em 1935. Construída para sua família, a casa é por muitos considerada o marco inicial da aplicação das novas gramáticas compositivas vanguardistas. Diversos estudos já foram feitos acerca desse projeto, mas acrescenta-se aqui uma nova abordagem buscando ir além das questões da caixa mural, aprofundando-se na espacialidade. A Sintaxe Espacial é uma teoria que visa articular padrões espaciais às apropriações sociais sobrepostas, de modo a correlacionar como diferentes qualidades dos espaços – entendidos como um sistema de permeabilidades e barreiras – dependem de diferentes lógicas sociais. Os resultados encontrados demonstram uma rígida separação funcional, onde os espaços de transição oferecem distribuição de fluxos e de controle de acesso entre os ambientes. Em termos da integração visual, a concepção espacial anseia por espaços mais fluidos, especialmente no setor social. Entretanto, pouco se rompe com espaço tradicional da casa brasileira até então: patriarcal, segregado, controlado e profundo. Há, portanto, uma contradição entre o avanço e retrocesso – corroborando os estudos precedentes sobre a plástica do edifício: mesmo que se almeje romper com certas tradições, as amarras culturais, sobrepostas aos espaços domésticos, prevalecem.

Este estudo objetivou contribuir para o conhecimento taxonômico de Sloanea (Elaeocarpaceae) na Região Metropolitana de Belém, no estado do Pará, Amazônia Brasileira. Foram registradas oito espécies de Sloanea: S. floribunda, S. grandiflora, S. granulosa, S. guianensis, S. nitida, S. porphyrocarpa, S. sinemariensis e S. terniflora. São fornecidas chave de identificação, descrições morfológicas, informações sobre distribuição geográfica e comentários taxonômicos das espécies tratadas.

Problematyka morfonologii stosunkowo rzadko jest podejmowana w badaniach logopedycznych i omawiana w metodyce postępowania logopedycznego. Autorka zwraca uwagę na potrzebę uwzględniania zagadnień z obszaru tej subdyscypliny językoznawczej, która usytuowana jest między fonetyką, fonologią i morfologią, w praktyce logopedycznej. Morfonologię najczęściej utożsamia się z alternacjami i wydaje się, że jest trudna do opanowania. Zjawisko wymiany samogłosek i spółgłosek jest częste we współczesnej polszczyźnie, ale dla osób uczących się języka polskiego stanowi spore wyzwanie. Zrozumienie zjawisk morfonologicznych wymaga świadomości językowej, która pozwala na rozpoznawanie elementów budowy wyrazu, jego przynależności do określonej kategorii gramatycznej, identyfikowania funkcji form wyrazowych w jednostkach składniowych. Wymaga też rozpoznawania tożsamości semantycznej jednostek fonemicznie podobnych i rozumienia konstrukcji słowotwórczych. Dotychczasowe wyniki badań wskazują, że trudności morfologiczne i morfonologiczne wymagają ćwiczeń nawet w naturalnym rozwoju mowy dziecka. W przypadku różnych zaburzeń mowy, dysleksji, bilingwizmu itp. opanowanie ich jest z reguły ogromnym problemem i powoduje trudności w budowaniu struktury leksykalnej i gramatycznej. Z tego powodu sprawność morfonologiczna wymaga specjalnej troski logopedów w programowaniu języka.

Celem artykułu jest zwrócenie uwagi na możliwości kształtowania świadomości morfologicznej jako elementu świadomości metajęzykowej, odgrywającego istotną rolę w percepcji i produkcji językowej w nauczaniu/ uczeniu się języka polskiego jako obcego. Podjęto w nim refleksję teoretyczną nad ujęciami morfologii, problemami metodyki nauczania zagadnień morfologicznych w kontekście relacji fleksja – słowotwórstwo i przedstawiono propozycje praktycznych rozwiązań dydaktycznych, stanowiące rezultat doświadczeń z pracy ze studentami, dla których językiem pierwszym jest język chiński. Do realizacji założonego celu posłużyły metoda analizy i krytyki piśmiennictwa, metoda analizy i konstrukcji logicznej oraz metoda indywidualnych przypadków oparta na analizie wyodrębnionego procesu dydaktycznego. Przedstawione rozważania stanowią przyczynek do dalszych badań nad metodyką nauczania gramatyki i słownictwa w ramach glottodydaktyki polonistycznej z uwzględnieniem języka pierwszego ucznia.

Objetivo. El estudio presenta la estructura y composición de un examen departamental estandarizado de una de las asignaturas de mayor relevancia curricular para el tronco común de Lenguas perteneciente a la Facultad de Idiomas(FI), así como los resultados de la evaluación psicométrica realizada a este mismo. Método. Se empleó la metodología formulada por el Instituto de Investigación y Desarrollo Educativo (Contreras Niño, 2000; Contreras Niño & Backhoff Escudero, 2004), con base en el modelo psicométrico propuesto por Nitko (1994) para elaboración de exámenes de gran escala de referencia criterial. La muestra de estudio fue de 260 estudiantes de primer semestre, procedentes de la FI a nivel Estado. Se empleó el método de análisis psicométrico basado en la teoría de respuesta al ítem, con lo que se midieron atributos como el índice de discriminación, coeficiente de discriminación y el índice de dificultad. Resultados. A partir del análisis psicométrico realizado al examen, se obtuvieron valores promedio que sobrepasan el estándar en cuanto al índice y coeficiente de discriminación (.32), destacan los obtenidos en la unidad temática de mayor relevancia curricular para la asignatura en cuestión. Asimismo, se observó una dificultad media en general en el examen y una distribución de la dificultad de los reactivos aceptable. Conclusiones. Los valores obtenidos en los atributos de confiabilidad y validez permitieron evidenciar la calidad del instrumento, lo cual contribuye a la certeza del nivel de dominio que el estudiantado refleja en relación con el universo de conocimientos representados en la prueba, situación que tiene un alto impacto, por la relevancia de dicha asignatura.

El tungsteno (W) ha sido de gran importancia en la industria, debido a su estabilidad química y propiedades mecánicas, lo que ha permitido que sea usado en una amplia gama de aplicaciones. Sin embargo, en la literatura, la mayoría de los reportes de investigación se enfocan en su interacción con otros elementos, formando aleaciones en compuestos tales como el semicarburo de tungsteno W2C y carburo de tungsteno WC. El W, en forma de película y sin aleantes, no es reportado ampliamente en la literatura, por lo cual se hace pertinente este trabajo de investigación, enfocado en el estudio de la naturaleza estructural y morfológica de películas de W, depositadas sobre substratos de vidrio y silicio (100) por medio de evaporación termoresistiva a diferentes valores de corriente. La naturaleza estructural de las capas se estudió usando difracción de rayos-X (XRD), identificando las reflexiones características de la estructura cristalina del W en los planos (110), (200) y (211), encontrando que no hay influencia de la corriente aplicada sobre la estructura cristalina de las capas. Las características morfológicas de las capas fueron estudiadas usando microscopía de fuerza atómica (AFM), encontrando una relación directa entre la corriente aplicada y los valores de rugosidad y tamaño de grano, el espesor de las capas varió entre 210 y 260 nm. Mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido se logró verificar la alta densificación de las capas depositadas. Esta investigación logró demostrar la posibilidad de depositar capas delgadas usando la técnica de evaporación termoresistiva, en las cuales se conserva la naturaleza estructural del material del bloque. Este tipo de películas, según la literatura consultada, podrían ser usadas en la fabricación de interconexiones en microprocesadores (Lee et al., 2019).

Background. In Mexico, there are variants of chili peppers (Capsicum spp.) in terms of shape, flavor, size and pungency, where the greatest diversity of native chili peppers is found in rural communities of the Mexican tropics. Objective. To characterize the phenotypic parameters of eight genotypes of native chili peppers from Olinalá, located in the mountain region of the state of Guerrero. Methodology. Eight materials collected from chili peppers were planted under greenhouse conditions, in a completely randomized design, with six replicates, three plants per experimental unit and a distance between plants and rows of 40 cm. The plants were established in a greenhouse, in a black polyethylene bag, with mountain soil as a substrate. Results. The genotypes Cascabel (CAS), Gallo gallina mediano (GGM), Gallo gallina grande (GGG) and Larguillo grande (LG) presented erect growth, Chilaca (CHI) of intermediate type, and Larguillo chico (LCH), Serrano (S) and Mochiteco (M) were compact. All genotypes have a green cylindrical stem and dense branching, lanceolate leaves (except M, which had oval leaves), with one flower per axil in an erect position and white, except CAS, which has light yellow flowers. The shape of the fruit varied between triangular (GGM, GGG and M), elongated (LGH, LG and S), round (CAS) and bell-shaped (CHI), and red when ripe. The genotypes that registered the largest plant and leaf size were LG, S, GGG and LCH. On the other hand, the largest fruit size was recorded in CHI with a fruit length of 8.53 cm; fruit width of 5.96 cm, and LG with fruit length of 8.67 cm; fruit width of 5.92 cm; while the fresh weight was higher in CHI (33.55 g), GGG (23.50 g) and GGM (22.60 g). Implications. The study provides information on the behavior of qualitative and quantitative morphological aspects of chili peppers grown in Teticic, Olinalá, in the state of Guerrero. In the same way, it allows to assess the possibility of selecting outstanding materials. Conclusions. The chili genotypes showed variability in different qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the plant, leaf, flower and fruit, so they are an alternative to select outstanding materials to design a program for the improvement and conservation of these genetic resources.

Primer registre d'Oribatula variaporosa (Acari, Oribatida, Oribatulidae) a Ucraïna Primer registre d'Oribatula variaporosa Iordansky, 1991 a Ucranïna. Es presenta una descripció complementària d'aquesta espècie basada en un exemplar adult recol·lectat a l'estepa de praderia seca del poble de Dudari, CATC de Rzhyshchiv, regió de Kíiv. S'ha preparat una clau dels àcars Oribatula d'Ucraïna.

Este artículo muestra cómo se pueden examinar los datos compilados en los Corpus de Clases de L2 (CCL2). En concreto, se centra en cómo analizar, tanto manualmente como con la herramienta Sketch Engine (https://www.sketchengine.eu), la enseñanza de vocabulario en español a partir de este tipo de corpus. Para situar al lector, en la revisión de la literatura se presentan varios CCL1 y CCL2 disponibles a través de alguna interfaz específica o a través de Sketch Engine. Además, se describe cómo investigadores con distintos enfoques han utilizado los CCL2 y con qué propósitos. Asimismo, puesto que los ejemplos que se dan en el artículo se centran en investigaciones relacionadas con el léxico en la L2, se incluye una sección muy somera sobre esta cuestión. A continuación, al examinar las aplicaciones de Sketch Engine, se centra la atención en las funcionalidades Lista de palabras, Concordancia y Palabras clave. Para ejemplificar la utilidad de Sketch Engine combinado con los análisis de tipo manual, se describen tres CCL2 creados por la autora del artículo y se revisa la metodología de cuatro investigaciones sobre la enseñanza del vocabulario y de la morfología léxica en las que se usaron estos tres CCL2. Tras describir cómo se analizaron los datos en estos estudios, se proponen nuevas investigaciones posibles con Sketch Engine y se ofrecen algunas recomendaciones que pueden resultar útiles para quienes se adentren en el uso de esta herramienta aplicada al análisis de CCL2.

Este estudo aborda a variação terminológica no âmbito da Morfologia do português, nomeadamente de termos empregados na análise mórfica. No encalço desse objetivo, pontuamos os principais aspectos conceptuais que consolidaram a Terminologia como uma das disciplinas dedicadas ao estudo do léxico. O corpus do qual extraímos os dados é composto por um conjunto de obras sobre estudos morfológicos da língua portuguesa, a saber: Câmara Jr. (1988), Kehdi (1990), Laroca (2003), Monteiro (2002) e Rosa (2011). Após apresentação de conceitos-chave da Terminologia e da contextualização de aspectos históricos e conceituais relacionados à Morfologia, cotejamos e analisamos, sob a perspectiva da Teoria Comunicativa da Terminologia (TCT), os termos a) ‘alomorfe’; b) ‘substituição’ e ‘comutação’; c) ‘vocábulo’ e ‘palavra’ e d) ‘radical’ e ‘raiz’. Dessa forma, constatamos ocorrências de não variação, de sinonímia terminológica, ou variação denominativa, e de variantes formais que poderíamos designar de ‘quase sinônimas’, pois, não obstante haja equivalências em certos contextos, apresentam traços semânticos distintivos e estão condicionadas a critérios discutíveis e não generalizantes. As interferências externas, por sua vez, foram de natureza dialetal, discursiva, interlinguística e cognitiva. No que diz respeito ao tipo funcional, não se identificaram diferenças entre tipos de registros e graus de especialidade, haja vista que as obras pesquisadas são de caráter introdutório.

Las nanopartículas de óxido de zinc (NPs ZnO) han llamado la atención debido a sus propiedades benéficas y a que pueden aplicarse en la agricultura como nanofertilizantes, nanoreguladores de crecimiento y para mejorar parámetros de calidad. El uso de euestresores como cloruro de sodio (NaCl) puede mejorar la calidad de varios cultivos de hortalizas con especial interés en atributos de calidad del fruto. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar los efectos del NaCl como eustrés y NPs ZnO sobre el crecimiento y calidad de chile pimento. Se evaluaron 10 tratamientos: aplicación de NPs de morfología esférica y hexagonal en dosis de 50 y 100 mg L−1 con y sin aplicación de NaCl (50 mM), más testigo salino y testigo absoluto. Se evaluaron variables agronómicas: como altura de la planta (AP), diámetro del tallo (DT), peso seco de la raíz (PSR) y planta (PSP), peso de frutos por planta (PFP) y variables de calidad de fruto como: firmeza, pH, conductividad eléctrica (C.E), solidos solubles totales (SST), acidez titulable (AT), potencial óxido-reducción (ORP) y vitamina C. Los resultados muestran que los tratamientos con nanopartículas a 50 y 100 mg L−1 aumentaron los parámetros de AP, PSR, PSP y PFP, la morfología hexagonal mejoró AP, PSR y PSP, la combinación de NaCl más NPs aumentaron el PSP y PFP, en parámetros de calidad de fruto el NaCl mejoró la firmeza y ORP, las NPs resultaron favorables para la calidad, aunque la forma esférica y hexagonal produjeron efectos similares.

Based on morphological and molecular characters, we describe a new species of terrestrial breeding frog of the Pristimantis danae Group from montane forests of La Mar Province, Ayacucho Department in southern Peru, at elevations from 1200 to 2000 m a.s.l. The phylogenetic analysis, based on concatenated sequences of gene fragments of 16S rRNA, RAG1, COI and TYR suggests that the new species is a sister taxon of a clade that includes one undescribed species of Pristimantis from Cusco, Pristimantis pharangobates and Pristimantis rhabdolaemus. The new species is most similar to P. rhabdolaemus, which differs by lacking scapular tubercules and by its smaller size (17.0-18.6 mm in males [n = 5], 20.8-25.2 mm in females [n = 5] in the new species vs. 22.8-26.3 mm in males [n = 19], 26.0-31.9 mm in females [n = 30] of P. rhabdolaemus). Additionally, we report the prevalence of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional traits are phenotypic characteristics that contribute to fitness of individuals in dynamic and changing environments. In mammals, both categorical and continuous (e.g. quantitative) functional traits have been extensively utilized as proxies for diet, locomotion, and other aspects of species ecology, but there has been less focus on form and function of soft tissues. This is particularly true for the digestive system, which varies in size and complexity across Class Mammalia and plays a major role in the energetics of species. To guide more effective utilization of gastrointestinal (GI) morphology as a functional proxy in small mammal ecology, we examined how GI tracts (lengths and masses of four GI sections) varied within a population of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, United States. We collected samples of adult P. maniculatus monthly for 1 year and measured GI tracts to quantify variation with respect to seasonality and trophic level, providing insight into plasticity in this soft tissue trait over time. We found that season had a significant effect on the total length and wet mass of the GI tract, with January mice having the longest GI tracts and lengths being shortest in the summer. The relative shortening of the GI tract in summer corresponded with a partial trophic increase detected by stable isotope signatures. GI length and wet mass also were affected by reproduction, but males and females responded in sex-specific ways to demands of reproduction, with reproductively active males having shorter and lighter GI tracts than nonreproductively active males. Our study provides proof-of-concept for understanding population-level plasticity in a rarely collected soft tissue trait, which may also be complementary to standard craniodental measurements as a functional dietary proxy to understand mammalian ecology and community assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammals are predicted to vary in body size following Bergmann's rule, with individuals found at higher latitudes in colder temperatures being larger in size compared to conspecifics occurring at lower latitudes in warmer temperatures. Body size is similarly expected to vary temporally, with a decrease in size through time due to recent climate warming. While Bergmann's rule is well-supported in mammals, there is increasing evidence of exceptions to the rule. Here, we present patterns of size variation in 17 North American mammal species using five morphological traits (condylobasal skull length, skull width, maxillary toothrow length, body weight, and head-and-body length) to determine if size varies predictably for each species in space and time. We found little support for a widespread Bergmannian pattern for these species at a broad spatial scale (across North America) and a contemporary temporal scale (the past 120 years). The effects of latitude or year on each trait were highly variable with three types of responses: an increase, a decrease, or no change in size across space or through time. Spatial size trends were detected more often than temporal size trends, as the temperature range was significantly larger in space than through time. Body weight (the most variable trait) and head-and-body length were more likely to conform to Bergmann's rule than craniodental measurements. We did not detect any changes in size variability with latitude, and our study species either increased or decreased in size variability over time. Our findings demonstrate that size variation in mammals is highly context-dependent. As such, caution is needed when using rules of body size variation to predict the future response of species to climate warning while valid in theory, it is likely too simplistic of an approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]