bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oligocene killifishes (Teleostei: Cyprinodontiformes) from southern France: relationships, taxonomic position, and evidence of internal fertilization
Authors: Costa Wilson
Published: February 2023

Phylogenetic relationships of five species of Prolebias from the Oligocene of southern France (P. aymardi, P. cephalotes, P. delphinensis, P. meridionalis, and P. stenoura) were examined under an analysis comprising 36 terminal taxa, representing all the main lineages of the order Cyprinodontiformes. It indicated Prolebias as a polyphyletic group, supporting Prolebias stenoura, the type species of the genus, as a valenciid monotypic lineage. Prolebias aymardi and P. delphinensis comprise a new valenciid genus, Francolebias, gen. nov., diagnosed by a unique morphology of pelvic bone, anterior proximal radials of the dorsal fin and anal fins, and hemal spines in putative males. The apomorphic specialized morphology of the anal fin and adjacent vertebrae is interpreted as evidence of an internal fertilization reproductive mode. Prolebias meridionalis is designated as the type species of a new monotypic cyprinodontid genus, Eurolebias, gen. nov., hypothesized to be the sister group to a clade comprising all other cyprinodontids, which is diagnosed by the apomorphic morphology of jaws, parhypural, and absence of parietals. Close relationships between P. cephalotes, P. egeranus from the lower Miocene of Czech Republic, and recent species of the poeciliid genus Pantanodon are corroborated on the basis of the apomorphic morphology of the dentary, pharyngobranchials, pelvic bone, and pelvic-fin rays, justifying the transference of those two species to the latter genus. The present study indicates that the European Oligocene fauna of cyprinodontiform fishes was greatly diversified when compared to its present poor fauna, comprising lineages now extinct or restricted to other continents.
Some introduced vertebrate species to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Authors: Khoury Fares , Amr Zuhair , Hamidan Nashat , Hassani Ibrahim , Mir Sayeeda , Eid Ehab , Bolad Natalia
Published: February 2023

We report in this paper all the terrestrial and freshwater introduced species in Jordan. Eight species of mammals have been introduced to Jordan from other countries. One species is expanding its range of distribution (Myocastor coypus), while the others are confined to nature reserves or private farms, or released within the vicinity of nature reserves. Thirteen species of birds were introduced, either intentionally, escaped from cage or expanded their range. A total of 15 freshwater fish species were introduced into the inland of the Jordanian territories. The Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio, and Oreochromis aureus were the most introduced species from various origins. Of the introduced reptiles, the Red-eared Slider, Trachemys scripta elegans, was found in Azraq pools. The impact of invasive species on the local fauna was discussed. The native fresh water fishes were the most affected; whereas three endemic species are currently critically endangered due to introduction of invasive species into their habitats.
Small carnivores in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal
Authors: Appel Angelika , Werhahn Geraldine , Acharya Raju , Ghimirey Yadav , Adhikary Bidhan
Published: February 2023

The leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis, large Indian civet Viverra zibetha and yellow-throated marten Martes flavigula are widely distributed through much of South and Southeast Asia, but their ecology remains poorly understood. We recorded these small carnivores during a camera trapping survey in the eastern mid-hills of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal. This protected area is the largest in the country and represents Himalayan mountain ecosystems. Our study area comprised an elevation range of 1550 – 2950 m in upper subtropical to upper temperate bioclimatic zones. During a sample effort of 370 trap days, leopard cat was the most commonly recorded carnivore, followed by large Indian civet and yellow-throated marten. We obtained the highest altitudinal record of a large Indian civet in Nepal at an altitude of 2420 m. Capture rates for small carnivores were broadly similar across bioclimatic zones. The level of human activity was low in the temperate bioclimatic zone during the late winter season when the study was conducted.
Nannostomus nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. – ein neuer Ziersalmler aus Venezuela (Teleostei: Characiformes: Lebiasinidae)
Authors: Zarske Axel
Published: February 2023

A new pencil-fish of the genus Nannostomus Günther, 1872 is described. N. nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. is closely related with N. trifasciatus Steindachner, 1876 and N. erythrurus (Eigenmann, 1909). The morphometric and meristic features of the three species are similar. Clear differences are found in the colouration and pattern. (1) N. nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. has a sexual dichromatism, which is not developed in N. trifasciatus and N. erythrurus. The males of N. nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. have ruby spots on the dorsal-, anal-, ventral-fins and on the base of the caudal-lobes. The fins of the females are hyaline. In N. trifasciatus and N. erythrurus the males and the females have red spots on the dorsal-, anal-, vertral-fins and on the base of the caudal lobes. (2) The primary horizontal stripe of N. nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. is relatively wide and somewhat lower, covering the lower part of the peduncle and ends on the caudal peduncle or is only a little bit on the caudal fin. In N. trifasciatus it is also narrower, somewhat lower, covering the lower part of the peduncle and extends only onto the base (about 1/5th) of the three first lower caudal rays. N. erythrurus has also a narrower and somewhat higher primary horizontal stripe not entirely covering the inferior part of the peduncle and extending onto the basal third or half of the three first lower caudal rays. (3) The secondary horizontal stripe of N. nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. is relatively weakly developed, lower situated and extending to the end of the peduncle. In N. trifasciatus the secondary horizontal stripe is stronger developed, lower situated and extends to the end of the caudal peduncle. N. erythrurus has a somewhat higher secondary horizontal stripe, extends to the base of the adipose fin. (4) N. nigrotaeniatus spec. nov. and N. erythrurus have no red stripe between primary and secondary horizontal band. N. trifasciatus has one, but this is only visible in living specimens.
Barilius neglectus STIELER, 1907 ein Seniorsynonym von Hemigrammocypris rasborella FOWLER, 1910 (Teleostei: Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Zarske Axel
Published: February 2023

The taxon Barilius neglectus Stieler, 1907 was founded on specimens who were imported as aquarium fishes by pet trade from Japan. The fish was hold and breed in captivity by German hobbyists at the beginning of the last century and died off in captivity because of the later imported more coloured species. Nevertheless, there are a lot of quotations of this species in the benchmarks of the hobbyists. But the species name is not to find in the ichthyological literature, especially also in the Japanese literature. During a re-investigation of the syntypes of this species hold in the Museum of Natural History Berlin, it was shown that Barilius neglectus Stieler, 1907 is a senior synonym of Hemigrammocypris rasborella Fowler, 1910. According to these investigations the correct name of this fish is Hemigrammocypris neglectus (Stieler, 1907).
Five new species of the killifish genus Anablepsoides from the Brazilian Amazon (Cyprinodontiformes: Rivulidae)
Authors: Costa Wilson , Bragança Pedro H. N. , Amorim Pedro
Published: February 2023

Two new species of the Anablepsoides urophthalmus group and three new species of the A. ornatus group, collected in the Brazilian Amazon, are described. Anablepsoides jari, new species, and A. roraima, new species, are the first records of members of the A. urophthalmus group for tributaries of the Amazonas river basin draining the Guiana Shield, but phylogenetic relationships of these species with other taxa are still uncertain. Anablepsoides jari, from the Jari river drainage, is distinguished from congeners by the colour pattern of flank and unpaired fins in males, whereas Anablepsoides roraima, from the Branco river drainage, is distinguished by the spotted pattern of flank in males. Relationships of the three new species of the A. ornatus group, Anablepsoides henschelae, new species, Anablepsoides ottonii, new species, and Anablepsoides gamae, new species, are tentatively inferred upon the basis of derived colour patterns of caudal fin in males, which are also informative to diagnose each new species. Anablepsoides ottonii seems to be closely related to A. ornatus by both sharing a pointed caudal fin in larger specimens and the presence of reddish brown spots on the dorsal portion of the caudal fin in males, whereas A. gamae and A. amanan share a colour pattern of caudal fin in males, unique among aplocheiloids, in which the dorsal portion of the fin is orangish red with dorsal margin white and narrow black outer border. Anablepsoides henschelae is considered as the sister group to all other species of its group by not sharing an apomorphic asymmetrically coloured caudal fin in males.
Description of Apistogramma helkeri sp. n., a new geophagine dwarf cichlid (Teleostei: Cichlidae) from the lower río Cuao (Orinoco drainage) in Venezuela
Authors: Schindler Ingo , Staeck Wolfgang
Published: February 2023

Apistogramma helkeri sp. n. is described from the drainage of the lower río Cuao in the Estado Amazonas of Venezuela. It is most similar to Apistogramma hongsloi Kullander, 1979, but differs from this species by its colouration and the shape of its dorsal fin. It can be distinguished from all the other described Apistogramma species by the following combination of characters: caudal fin rounded, hyaline and immaculate; dorsal fin lappets short, truncate, without extension or prolongation; caudal spot large, vertically extended; lateral band chainlike or running in a zigzag to 7th bar, not reaching caudal fin or caudal spot; upper pectoral spot present; three distinct abdominal stripes.
Revision of the Levantine "Lacerta" laevis/kulzeri-Complex: 3. The Rock Lizard of Wadi Ramm, Phoenicolacerta kulzeri khazaliensis ssp. n.
Authors: Modrý David , Necas Petr , Rifai Lina , Bischoff Wolfgang , Hamidan Nashat , Amr Zuhair
Published: February 2023

A new lacertid, the Wadi Ramm Rock Lizard, Phoenicolacerta kulzeri khazaliensis ssp. n. from Wadi Ramm, southern Jordan, is described. Its morphological features are discussed in comparison with other populations of P. kulzeri, all known data on its biology are presented.
Re-description of Trichomycterus cubataonis BIZERRIL, 1994 (Siluriformes: Trichomycteridae) from the Cubatão river basin, southern Brazil
Authors: Katz Axel M. , Barbosa Maria A.
Published: February 2023

Trichomycterus cubataonis, from the Cubatão river, southern Brazil, is re-described and revalidated. It is hypothesized as closely related to T. diabolus, T. itatiayae, T. maculosus and T. nigroautarus based on the presence of a broad metapterygoid, which is wider than deeper. Trichomycterus cubataonis differs from the above four species by the number of pectoral, dorsal, and anal-fins rays, origin of anal fin related to the dorsal-fin base, insertion of pelvic-fin related to the vertebrae, origin of dorsal- and anal fins related to the vertebrae, number of dorsal and ventral procurrent rays of caudal fin, number of odontodes of the opercular and interopercular patch, length, depth and width of the head, and eye size. Moreover, T. cubataonis differs from T. zonatus mainly by the insertion of pelvic-fin related to the vertebrae, origin of dorsal- and anal fins related to the vertebrae, number of anal fin rays, and the position of the anal fin related to the dorsal-fin base. Therefore, T. cubataonis should be considered a valid species.
Nasal cartilages, hyobranchial apparatus, larynx, and glottal tubes in four species of Hydropsini (Serpentes: Dipsadidae: Xenodontinae)
Authors: Pietro Diego Omar Di , Alcalde Leandro , Williams Jorge
Published: February 2023

Tribe Hydropsini (Serpentes: Dipsadidae: Xenodontinae) consists of three genera of aquatic snakes, Helicops, Hydrops, and Pseudoeryx, in which cartilaginous cranial features have been poorly studied. We here describe the nasal cartilages, hyobranchial apparatus, larynx, and glottal tubes in four representative Hydropsini species, compare them with species from other Dipsadidae tribes, and discuss our results in the context of the adaptation to the aquatic and fossorial habit. The studied species possess two nasal features that deviate from the pattern of nasal cartilages known in other aletinophidian and caenophidian snakes: (1) a cartilaginous connection between the lamina transversalis anterior and the concha of the Jacobson´s organ, and (2) a small rostral projection of the planum anteorbitale, which probably represents a reduced anterior maxillary process. Two putative synapomorphic features may be supporting the monophyly of Hydropsini: (1) a short inferior median eminence of the cricoid cartilage, and (2) a large processus entoglossus of the hyobranchial apparatus. The second feature also occurs in other snakes, such as the aquatic Farancia abacura (Dipsadidae: incertae sedis), the semi-fossorial Oxyrhopus rhombifer (Xenodontinae: Pseudoboini), and the fossorial Phalotris bilineatus (Xenodontinae: Elapomorphini). This feature may represent a convergent cranial adaptation between aquatic and fossorial snakes. Similarly, the short inferior median eminence of the cricoid cartilage, which also occurs in Farancia abacura, may represent a convergent adaptation to the fully aquatic habit in these species.
Genetic barcoding confirms first breeding record of the Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis, (Aves: Pelecaniformes, Ardeidae) in the Western Palearctic
Authors: Päckert Martin , Hering Jens , Fuchs Elmar , Barthel Peter , Heim Wieland
Published: February 2023

We confirmed the first breeding record of the native Asian yellow bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis) in the Western Palearctic by genetic barcoding and morphometric analysis. In 2012 three small herons had been captured in Wadi Lahami at the western Red Sea coast of Egypt and these individuals had been tentatively determined as yellow bitterns. From blood samples of these birds we amplified and sequenced the barcoding marker (cytochrome-oxidase) and cytochrome-b and used sequences from own samples and further data inferred from GenBank for comparison. All three Egyptian specimens in question formed a monophyletic clade with sequences of I. sinensis and these were well separated from the sister species I. minutus in both phylogenetic reconstructions (p-distance, cytochrome-b: 9.6 %). A discriminant analysis based on six body-size parameters confirmed the assignment of these Egyptian specimens to I. sinensis. Along with this documentation we discuss phylogenetic relationships within Botaurinae and biogeographic aspects.
Platyceps rhodorachis (JAN, 1863) - a study of the racer genus Platyceps BLYTH, 1860 east of the Tigris (Reptilia: Squamata: Colubridae)
Authors: Schätti Beat , Kucharzewski Christoph , Tillack Frank
Published: February 2023

Platyceps rhodorachis (Jan, 1863) is a euryoecious polytypic racer distributed from NE Iraq to Central Asia (Kyrgyzstan) and the Himalayas (probably westernmost Nepal). The nominotypical subspecies, occupying most of the species’ range, is polymorphic. The typical (striped) phenotype is absent from certain peripheral areas. Notable geographic variation is observed in the number of ventrals, subcaudals, dorsal scales, or maxillary teeth and in the colour pattern. P. r. ladacensis (Anderson, 1871) is only found from the eastern Hindu Kush into northern Himachal Pradesh (India). Its presence south of the Zanskar Range requires confirmation and the status of the Ladakh Cliff Racer is debatable. The identity and systematic position of racers from the vicinity of Ahvaz (Khuzestan) as well as Arabian and southern Red Sea populations commonly assigned to P. rhodorachis pend further investigation. Platyceps semifasciatus Blyth, 1860 is a senior subjective synonym of P. rhodorachis (nomen protectum, valid type species of Platyceps Blyth). P. ventromaculatus (Gray, 1834) from the Makran coast to low-lying NW India and Nepal, for a long time confused with Jan’s Cliff Racer (P. rhodorachis sensu stricto), is a mostly parapatric species. Two new taxa of the rhodorachis species group from montane NE Baluchistan Province (P. noeli sp. nov.) and the southern Indus Plain (P. sindhensis sp. nov.) are described. Another racer taxon from northern Azad Jammu and Kashmir remains undesignated. Distinctive morphological character states for P. rhodorachis vis-à-vis the southeast Mediterrano-Iranian P. najadum (Eichwald, 1831), P. karelini (Brandt, 1838) from Libya to the Lake Balqash area and inland SW Pakistan (hybridises in places with P. r. rhodorachis), Baluch endemics including P. mintonorum (Mertens, 1969), and Sindian species (sindhensis, ventromaculatus) are elaborated. An identification key embracing the Indian P. bholanathi (Sharma, 1976) and P. gracilis (Günther, 1862) as well as a review of Platyceps Blyth are provided. This genus is currently comprised of twenty-three mainly southern Palaearctic and Afrotropical as well as two Indian species referred to three (florulentus, najadum, rhodorachis-ventromaculatus) evolutionary lineages.
Histologic features of the gastrointestinal tract of Laonastes aenigmamus (Rodentia: Diatomyidae)
Authors: Scopin Alexey , Gashkova Irina , Saveljev Alexander , Abramov Alexei
Published: February 2023

We have carried out histological studies of the gastrointestinal tract of Laotian rock rat Laonastes aenigmamus. Most of the inner surface of the stomach is a cardiac region having reduced glands. Generally the cardiac glands are located near the esophagus. The esophagus and the ventricular groove are lined by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. The region containing fundic (proper gastric) glands occupies a small area of the stomach. The maximum thickness of the gastrointestinal wall has been determined for the hindstomach and duodenum. The minimum wall thickness has been determined for ileum, colon, and cecum. In the large intestine, the glands are weakly developed and this can mean that there is not an active digestion in this gut site. Our results confirm the fact that foregut fermentation is crucial in digestion for this rodent. The topography of the regions, occupied by different types of mucosa in the stomach, has a convergent similarity to ones that are found in ruminant-like marsupials and points to similar adaptations to the consumption of plant foods. Owing to the small body mass of the rodents, the distribution of foregut fermentation is exceptionally rare in evolutionary history.
Phylogeny and historical biogeography of trans-Andean cichlid fishes (Teleostei: Cichlidae)
Authors: Musilová Zuzana , Říčan Oldrich , Říčanová Štěpánka , Janšta Petr , Gahura Ondřej , Novák Jindřich
Published: February 2023

We reconstruct the historical biogeography of cichlid fishes endemic to the trans-Andean region of NW South America. DNA sequences were used to study historical biogeography of the cichlid genera Andinoacara (Cichlasomatini) and Mesoheros (Heroini). Two eventbased methodological approaches, parsimony-based Statistical Dispersal-Vicariance Analysis (S-DIVA) and likelihood-based Dispersal-Extinction Cladogenesis (DEC in Lagrange) were used for ancestral-area reconstructions. Molecular clock analysis of the whole group of Neotropical Cichlidae (using mtDNA and nucDNA markers) was calibrated using BEAST by six known cichlid fossils. The historical biogeography of both studied trans-Andean cichlid genera is best explained by a series of vicariance events that fragmented an ancestrally wider distribution. Both genera have a highly congruent vicariant historical biogeography in their shared distribution in the Colombian-Ecuadorian Choco. The Andean uplift and formation of the Central American isthmus strongly impacted the distribution patterns of the freshwater ichtyofauna in the NW Neotropics as suggested by the historical biogeography of the two studied cichlid groups. Despite strong congruence in their historical biogeography the two studied cichlid lineages (part of the tribe Cichlasomatini and Heroini, respectively) have highly different evolutionary substitution rates in the studied mtDNA cytb marker.
Badis pancharatnaensis, a new percoid fish species from Brahmaputra River drainage, Assam, India (Teleostei: Badidae)
Authors: Basumatary Sudem , Choudhury Hrishikesh , Baishya Ratul , Sarma Dandadhar , Vishwanath Waikhom
Published: February 2023

Badis pancharatnaensis, a new percomorph, is described from the Brahmaputra River drainage of Assam, India. It is distinguished from its congeners by having the following combination of characters: a conspicuous black blotch on the superficial part of cleithrum; pointed soft dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins, the 2nd soft ray of pelvic-fin reaching slightly beyond the vent; 13 ‒ 14 pectoral-fin rays; circumpeduncular scales 14 ‒ 17; body depth 28.2 ‒ 33.8% of SL; interorbital distance 7.1 ‒ 9.4% of SL; and 28 number of vertebrae.
Description of two new species of the microhylid frog genus Oreophryne (Amphibia: Anura: Microhylidae) from southern Papua New Guinea
Authors: Günther Rainer , Richards Stephen
Published: February 2023

Two new species of the microhylid genus Oreophryne are described on the basis of material collected from the Kikori River Basin in southern Papua New Guinea. Both species belong to the group of Oreophryne that have a ligamentous connection between the procoracoid and scapula. One of the new species is small (snout-urostyle length in males 19.7 – 23.3 mm and in females 23.8 – 27.4 mm), and males can be distinguished from congeners in this group by having one or a few conspicuous yellow spots in the inguinal region and an advertisement call consisting of a loud rattle lasting 1.4 – 2.3 seconds. The second species is larger (males 25.9 – 31.4 mm and females 30.1 – 34.7 mm) and in life has a uniform brownish-grey dorsum with numerous tiny white dots. Its advertisement call is a series of 9 – 15 ‘whistling’ or ‘peeping’ notes. Both species are predominantly arboreal, normally calling from perches more than 2 m above the ground.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Atopomesus Myers, 1927 (Characiformes: Characidae), with comments on its phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Esguícero André , Castro Ricardo M. C.
Published: February 2023

The monotypic genus Atopomesus, a poorly known member of the family Characidae, is re-described. Atopomesus pachyodus is endemic to the Rio Negro basin, where it feeds on aquatic insect larvae, and seems to occur mostly in riverine sand banks and beaches. A. pachyodus was originally described as a member of the Characidae subfamily Cheirodontinae, but has been considered as an Characidae incertae sedis based on relatively superficial studies of its dentition and external morphology. However, according to the morphological analyses presented herein, a close relationship between A. pachyodus and the members the subfamily Aphyoditeinae is hypothesized. The inclusion of A. pachyodus in the Aphyoditeinae is based on the shared presence of a long posteriorly directed spiniform process on the posteroventral margin of the orbitosphenoid, the elongation of the transverse process of the neural arch of the third vertebra, and the elongation of the posterior process of the parasphenoid.
Shell shape and genetic variability of Southeast Asian Box Turtles (Cuora amboinensis) from Borneo and Sumatra
Authors: Protiva Tomáš , Gunalen Danny , Bauerová Anna , Palupčíková Klára , Somerová Barbora , Frýdlová Petra , Jančúchová-Lásková Jitka , Šimková Olga , Frynta Daniel , Rehák Ivan
Published: February 2023

Distinguishing between species is an essential aspect of animal research and conservation. For turtles, morphology and genetic analysis are potentially valuable tools for identification. Shell shape is an important component of phenotypic variation in turtles and can be easily described and quantified by geometric morphometrics (GM). Here, we focus on carapace and plastron shape discrimination of immature Southeast Asian box turtles (Cuora amboinensis) from two of the Greater Sunda Islands with partially distinct faunas. GM analysis identified significant differences in carapace and plastron shape between turtles from Borneo and Sumatra. The discrimination success amounted to 90% and 83.7% for carapace and plastron, respectively. The correlations of carapace and plastron shapes were high for Sumatra (0.846), and less pronounced for Borneo (0.560). We detected no differences in the ontogenetic trajectories of the shell shape between the two islands. We conclude that shell shape can be used for reliable geographic assignment of C. amboinensis of unknown origin. In addition to the comparison of shell shapes, turtles from Borneo, Sumatra, Seram, and turtles of unknown origin from two Czech zoos were studied genetically. Analysis of the complete mitochondrial cytochrome b gene confirmed the distinctness of turtles from Borneo and Sumatra, with p-distance 2.68 – 4.09% sequence difference. Moreover, we discovered considerable genetic difference in Seram turtles of previously unknown haplogroup (p-distance 6.00 – 8.68%) revealing the need for the revision of the whole species complex of Cuora amboinensis.
Measurement errors in 3D models used in osteometric data research with freeware: a test using skulls of the Algerian hedgehog (Atelerix algirus)
Authors: Quesada Javier , Aurell-Garrido Josep , Gago Sergi , Boet Olga , Garcia-Franquesa Eulàlia
Published: February 2023

The use of 3D models is becoming commonplace in both scientific investigation and in more general educational activities; nevertheless, methodologies and their associated software are both relatively expensive to use. As well, measurements of 3D models must be comparable to that of originals if they are to be used in scientific research. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of error in measurements taken from 3D models and from the original skulls of Algerian hedgehogs (Atelerix algirus) using a freeware program. To do so, we measured the repeatability (ri) of four biometric measurements of 14 skulls of this North-African hedgehog species. We generated 3D models of skulls of 14 specimens from the collection in Barcelona Natural History Museum using the NextEngine scanner and free software and a low-price computer. The same observer measured each variable twice for each skull using three different methodologies: (i) measurement of the original; (ii) measurement of 3D models projected onto a screen with no zoom (i.e. replicating the original skull size) and (iii) measurement of 3D models projected onto a screen with the maximum possible zoom. The repeatability within each method (INTRAMETHOD) and between methods (INTERMETHOD: original vs. screen No-zoom; original vs. screen zoom) were tested. The methods per se were either very highly repeatable (ri > 90%) or very repeatable (ri > 0.75), the only exception being a difference in the length of the median palatine on the screen with no zoom (ri: 0.64) due to a single outlier. When comparing digital models, our data suggest that measurements taken from skull borders are more reliable than those in which measurements are taken from sutures due to the differences in the contrast obtained in the finish of the 3D models. Thus, the contrast in 3D models needs to be improved, possibly by means of digital treatment. Our results suggest that the 3D models obtained using the scanner NextEngine and edited using open-access freeware (Meshlab®) are comparable with original specimens and so are a good alternative for museums with fewer financial resources.
Genetic analysis of the Turkish gray wolf (Canis lupus) based on partial mitochondrial DNA sequences
Authors: İbiş Osman , Aksöyek Eren , Özcan Servet , Keten Akif , Yorulmaz Tarkan , Tez Coşkun
Published: February 2023

In this study, we focused on determining the genetic variability of Turkish gray wolves and also to reveal phylogenetic relationships of the Eurasian wolf populations using mitochondrial DNA sequences. Partial mitochondrial DNA sequences (440 bp) were obtained from 12 Turkish gray wolves, including D-loop region (332 bp). We found seven D-loop haplotypes (332 bp) among the 12 Turkish gray wolves. The D-loop sequences of the Turkish gray wolf were compared to sequences registered in GenBank from Eurasia under the name Canis lupus. Five Turkish haplotypes were shared with conspecific sequences from other regions of Eurasia in the species’ range. Two haplotypes were unique for the Turkish wolves. The existence of shared haplotypes suggests that the gray wolves in Turkey and other regions might be originated from the same gene pool. The present study reports significant data for determining the genetic variability and revealing the phylogenetic relationships of Turkish gray wolves; it is suggested that the genetic variability of Turkish gray wolves is relatively high.
Garra biloborostris, a new labeonine species from north-eastern India (Teleostei: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Roni Narengbam , Vishwanath Waikhom
Published: February 2023

Garra biloborostris, a new labeonine species is described from the Kanamakra River of the Brahmaputra River basin in Assam. It can be distinguished from its congeners of northeast India in having a unique combination of the following characters: a proboscis represented by two separate and slightly elevated arch-shaped lobes, each lobe with three acanthoid tubercles on its anterodorsal marginal aspect; bulgy lateral surface of the snout giving a lobe like appearance; a prominent knob-like transverse lobe with 10 – 16 small- to medium-sized acanthoid tubercles; 30 + 3 lateral line scales; 8½ branched dorsal fin rays; and 5½ branched anal fin rays.
Distribution and population size of the European pond turtle Emys orbicularis in Ljubljansko barje, Slovenia
Authors: Vamberger Melita , Lipovšek Gregor , Šalamun Ali , Cipot Maja , Fritz Uwe , Govedič Marijan
Published: February 2023

The exact understanding of distribution and natural history is the necessary prerequisite for conservation of the endangered European pond turtle. In this study we examined the distribution and population size of pond turtles in Ljubljansko barje, a bog of European importance (Natura 2000 site, intended to be included into the Convention on Wetlands, the ‘Ramsar list’). For doing so, we used different capture and observation methods. Four hundred kilometres of drainage ditches were investigated by foot, fish traps were set at 507 localities, and 171 pond turtles were captured and measured. We conclude that pond turtles are distributed all over Ljubljansko barje, but concentrated in just 18 km2 (areas of Gmajnice and Draga pri Igu) out of the 170 km2 total size of Ljubljansko barje. In these two areas reproduction was confirmed. The relative density for Gmajnice was calculated to 16 turtles per square kilometre, which is lower than in Draga pri Igu, with a minimum of 57 turtles per square kilometre. The main threats for the survival of pond turtles are habitat loss, nest destruction by agriculture, an increase of floods during the past 100 years, inappropriate cleaning out of drainage ditches, and the presence of invasive non-native turtles. To make conservation efforts for the European pond turtle more effective in Ljubljansko barje, we recommend using wire meshes for protecting nests and shifting the cleaning out of ditches to the active period of pond turtles.
Two new frog species from the Foja Mountains in northwestern New Guinea (Amphibia, Anura, Microhylidae)
Authors: Günther Rainer , Richards Stephen , Tjaturadi Burhan
Published: February 2023

Two new microhylid frogs in the genera Choerophryne and Oreophryne are described from the Foja Mountains in Papua Province of Indonesia. Both are small species (males 15.9 – 18.5 mm snout-urostyle length SUL and 21.3 – 22.9 mm SUL respectively) that call from elevated positions on foliage in primary lower montane rainforest. The new Choerophryne species can be distinguished from all congeners by, among other characters, a unique advertisement call consisting of an unpulsed (or very finely pulsed) peeping note lasting 0.29 – 0.37 seconds. The new Oreophryne species belongs to a group that has a cartilaginous connection between the procoracoid and scapula and rattling advertisement calls. Its advertisement call is a loud rattle lasting 1.2 – 1.5 s with a note repetition rate of 11.3 – 11.7 notes per second.
Identifying Rhabdomys museum specimens following taxonomic changes: use of short COI sequences
Authors: Coetzer W. , Grobler J.
Published: February 2023

The African four-striped grass mouse (Rhabdomys sp.) is a widespread rodent genus which is currently divided into two geographically distinct species. These rodents’ wide distribution range makes them perfect candidates for molecular studies related to adaptations to different habitats. Museum collections form valuable sources of samples for molecular analyses, but use of older classifications or mislabelling of specimens can be problematic. In this study, we attempt to use medium sized (~ 300 bp) cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) mitochondrial DNA fragments to correctly group Rhabdomys museum specimens into their now known taxonomic groups. Samples were sourced from four South African museum collections. We were able to group the majority of the specimens into their anticipated taxonomic groups, with 65 specimens identified as R. pumilio and 35 as R. dilectus. The phylogenetic grouping of the specimens largely correlated with work done by Du Toit et al. (2012). These results will facilitate the use of the selected specimens for a future study, which will focus on the genetic variation observed at selected adaptively linked genes, among Rhabdomys populations.
Species limits in Northern Eurasian taxa of the common stonechats, Saxicola torquatus complex (Aves: Passeriformes, Muscicapidae)
Authors: Opaev Alexey , Red’Kin Yaroslav , Kalinin Egor , Golovina Maria
Published: February 2023

The common stonechat Saxicola torquatus traditionally was considered as a polytypic species widely distributed in Africa, Europe and Asia. Recently, several authors have suggested that this formerly single species needs to be split into several distinct species composing the Saxicola torquatus complex based on mitochondrial markers. However, mitochondrial DNA alone is not sufficient for the evaluation of species status. In this paper, we reviewed the taxonomy of Northern Eurasian taxa from the complex based on morphometrics, plumage, song and alarm calls. The morphological and vocal data clearly matched the phylogroups reconstructed from mitochondrial DNA sequences, and separated Northern Eurasian taxa of the Saxicola torquatus complex into three groups: rubicola, maurus and stejnegeri. We proposed the species status for these three groups: European stonechat Saxicola rubicola, eastern stonechat Saxicola maurus and Japanese stonechat Saxicola stejnegeri. Among them, S. stejnegeri is a cryptic species as it cannot be distinguished by morphometrics and by worn spring plumage from S. maurus, but differs noticeably by male song.
Communicable disease model in view of fractional calculus
Authors: Alharbi Weam G. , Shater Abdullah F. , Ebaid Abdelhalim , Cattani Carlo , Areshi Mounirah , Jalal Mohammed M. , Alharbi Mohammed K.
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic still gains the attention of many researchers worldwide. Over the past few months, China faced a new wave of this pandemic which increases the risk of its spread to the rest of the world. Therefore, there has become an urgent demand to know the expected behavior of this pandemic in the coming period. In this regard, there are many mathematical models from which we may obtain accurate predictions about the behavior of this pandemic. Such a target may be achieved via updating the mathematical models taking into account the memory effect in the fractional calculus. This paper generalizes the power-law growth model of the COVID-19. The generalized model is investigated using two different definitions in the fractional calculus, mainly, the Caputo fractional derivative and the conformable derivative. The solution of the first-model is determined in a closed series form and the convergence is addressed. At a specific condition, the series transforms to an exact form. In addition, the solution of the second-model is evaluated exactly. The results are applied on eight European countries to predict the behavior/variation of the infected cases. Moreover, some remarks are given about the validity of the results reported in the literature.
A sustainable smart production model for partial outsourcing and reworking
Authors: Bachar Raj Kumar , Bhuniya Shaktipada , AlArjani Ali , Ghosh Santanu Kumar , Sarkar Biswajit
Published: February 2023

Smart production plays a significant role to maintain good business terms among supply chain players in different situations. Adjustment in production uptime is possible because of the smart production system. The management may need to reduce production uptime to deliver products ontime. But, a decrement in production uptime reduces the projected production quantity. Then, the management uses a limited investment for pursuing possible alternatives to maintain production schedules and the quality of products. This present study develops a mathematical model for a smart production system with partial outsourcing and reworking. The market demand for the product is price dependent. The study aims to maximize the total profit of the production system. Even in a smart production system, defective production rate may be less but unavoidable. Those defective products are repairable. The model is solved by classical optimization. Results show that the application of a variable production rate of the smart production for variable market demand has a higher profit than a traditional production (52.65%) and constant demand (12.45%).
Archéologie, histoire, économie
Authors: Zurbach Julien
Published: February 2023

Les rapports entre archéologie et histoire économique ne sont pas une question marginale sur les relations entre deux disciplines bien distinctes. C’est une nécessité urgente de les approfondir car, pour l’histoire économique, ils représentent la seule voie viable de développement.
Préambule : L’envie de monnaie
Authors: Desmedt Ludovic , Hiriart Eneko , Zurbach Julien
Published: February 2023

Neutre ou négativement active selon les théories, la monnaie est un outil qui valide la valeur économique d’un bien ou d’un service. Pour que cet outil soit utilisé, il faut qu’il soit » accepté ». Quelle situation, quel projet, quels rapports de confiance ou de force vont permettre la création d’une monnaie et son développement et quels effets cela aura t-il sur la société ? Pour initier la discussion entre historiens de l’économie ancienne ou récente, la présentation d’une initiative de monnaie parallèle, lancée en 2018 par trois étudiants de l’École nationale supérieure de création industrielle (ENSCI) : La Maille.
The Effect of Using Intelligent Transportation Systems on Transportation-Sustainable Development in Egypt
Authors: Osama Ashrakat , Bagwari Ashish , Hossam Nada
Published: February 2023

Roads have a significant positive impact on social and economic development and provide various advantages. There are several reasons why modern transportation is not sustainable. One of the most significant causes is the traffic congestion issue, since its effects severely harm both the environment and the entire community. As a technology that improves transportation quality or accomplishes other goals using programmes that watch over, manage, or enhance transportation networks, an intelligent transportation system is a crucial idea that aids in the development of sustainable transportation. Every kind of intelligent transportation used in Egypt, including the monorail, runs on electricity and requires no fuel, helping to save the environment. By encouraging people to take public transit instead of driving their own automobiles, intelligent transportation systems and methods can ease traffic congestion. This reduces congestion and protects the environment from pollution brought on by vehicle emissions and exhaust.
Investigating the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Supply Chain Performance
Authors: Haikal Gamal , Abdelbary Islam , Soliman Karim
Published: February 2023

Organizations confront falling demand and, as a result, operational and financial restrictions during difficult economic times. The purpose of this case study is to examine the influence of COVID-19 on the SC of a steel fabrication manufacturer in Egypt, named Ghazala Steel Fabrication Company, as the massive dispersion of COVID-19 is seen as a global shock. Furthermore, the pandemic effects are being felt globally in various ways, including all SC operations, manufacturing costs, and logistical activities. The case study used primary data collection methods to investigate and analyze the impact of COVID-19 on SC performance on Ghazala's SC performance. Semi-structured interviews and site observations were used to analyze and discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the steel industry SCs and how it affected all relevant stakeholders.
Investigating the Conflicts in a Multi-Actor Logistics Incident
Authors: Özcan Seda , Aksaray Onur , Oflaç Bengü Sevil
Published: February 2023

The objectives of the case study are to highlight the possible challenges/disruptions arising from having a joint operation with multiple companies, to demonstrate operational problems encountered in the business process, and to illustrate the approach of the companies to the problems in this process and subsequent reconciliation process. Furthermore, this study aims to uncover conflict and power relations, which dominate the whole process between companies, based on some theoretical perspectives of power and conflict in distribution channels. By using a real case involving multiple players of the supply chain, this study contributes to transportation disruption and conflict management domains.
The Tendency Toward Producing Ecologically Friendly Products at Toshiba in the Middle East
Authors: Ali Ahmed Hussein , El-Rouby Habiba Sherif , El-Gamal Sarah Yousry , Zaghloul Ahmed Saad
Published: February 2023

The case deals with decreasing environmental harm and pollution in all industries. The corporations have followed worldwide environmental standards to replace toxic materials with environmentally acceptable alternatives, such as lead-free glass used in producing L.E.D. lamps and Freon R410 used in the production process of air conditioners and refrigerators. ELARABY Group is one of the few enterprises in the Middle East specialized in electronics. It designed and applied a system to face the challenges, consequences, and results of replacing harmful materials with environmentally friendly ones. The case followed a qualitative approach through conducting interviews with experts in order to collect data.
It's a Team Effort
Authors: Hatton Crystal E. , Kurz Charity Anne , Greiner Angelica
Published: February 2023

Engaging students in remote learning can be a perplexing and overwhelming process for teachers. This task can present an even greater challenge for teachers who serve students with disabilities (SWD) due to the nature of the diverse and unique learning needs that must be addressed remotely. Thus, to effectively meet the needs of SWD in remote learning, it is necessary for teachers to collaborate with other educational stakeholders. The purpose of this chapter is to outline how teachers and school counselors can collaborate to optimize the remote learning experiences of SWD in grades prek-12. Within this chapter, the authors will discuss the school counselor's role as it relates to collaborating with teachers to serve SWD, provide ideas for collaboration, identify anticipated challenges, and recommend strategies for fostering productive and successful collaborative relationships.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Indonesian Native Starch
Authors: Belgis Maria , Sadek Nur Fathonah , Masahid Ardiyan Dwi , Purbasari Dian , Savitri Dyah Ayu
Published: February 2023

Indonesia has many local starch sources, including rice, taro, arrowroot, sago, corn, konjac, cassava, and elephant foot yam (suweg). Several uses of natural starch have been widely used as the primary raw material or as a food additive. Natural starch generally has some drawbacks limiting its use, such as color, solubility index, retrogradation, and paste stability. Starch modification is needed to improve these limitations. Starch modification is carried out physically and chemically. In this chapter, the authors will discuss the physical and chemical characteristics of several local Indonesian starches, both natural and modified, and their potential to be developed as food ingredients.
Reimagining Mobility for an Inclusive International Higher Education Agenda
Authors: Gargano Terra
Published: February 2023

This chapter advocates for reframing an inclusive internationalization agenda in higher education through an expanded understanding of mobility. Specifically, this chapter advocates for 1) a reimagining of the homogenized, binary, and nationalistic vernacular used to describe the traditional experiences, identity labels, and boundaries of student experiences and identities; 2) a dialectical and intersectional understanding that all students experience mobilities and immobilities to reframe differentiated mobility across spaces, modalities, and identities; and 3) a larger conversation that acknowledges the politics of mobility - the systems, structures, and power dynamics in higher education - and its role in crafting inclusive international higher education spaces. Expanding the terrains of possibility for inclusivity starts with acknowledging differentiated mobility and interrogating assumptions about mobility, meaning, and modality.
Implications for Harmonization of Higher Education Minimum Bodies of Knowledge in the SADC Region
Authors: Moyo Blessing , Kurebwa Jeffrey
Published: February 2023

The study sought to understand the implications of harmonization of higher education minimum bodies of knowledge (MBKs) in the southern African development community (SADC) region with specific reference to Zimbabwe and South Africa. The study relied on qualitative methodology while data was collected using key informant interviews and documentary search. The study participants were drawn from institutions of higher education (IHE), councils of higher education (CHE), and members of the academia from both South Africa and Zimbabwe. The findings of the study indicated that there is a negligible role played by MBKs in harmonizing higher education systems between Zimbabwe and South Africa. The study concludes that diplomacy is relevant to the internationalization of higher education. The absence of a coordinated approach exposes international students to challenges from which they cannot extricate themselves in foreign countries without the intervention of their diplomatic missions.