bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone diagnosed by standing magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: SHERLOCK C. , MAIR T. , BLUNDEN T.
Published: November 2008

Reasons for performing study: Erosion of the palmar (flexor) aspect of the navicular bone is difficult to diagnose with conventional imaging techniques.

Objectives: To review the clinical, magnetic resonance (MR) and pathological features of deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone.

Methods: Cases of deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone, diagnosed by standing low field MR imaging, were selected. Clinical details, results of diagnostic procedures, MR features and pathological findings were reviewed.

Results: Deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone were diagnosed in 16 mature horses, 6 of which were bilaterally lame. Sudden onset of lameness was recorded in 63%. Radiography prior to MR imaging showed equivocal changes in 7 horses. The MR features consisted of focal areas of intermediate or high signal intensity on T1‐, T2*‐ and T2‐weighted images and STIR images affecting the dorsal aspect of the deep digital flexor tendon, the fibrocartilage of the palmar aspect, subchondral compact bone and medulla of the navicular bone. On follow‐up, 7/16 horses (44%) had been subjected to euthanasia and only one was being worked at its previous level. Erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone were confirmed post mortem in 2 horses. Histologically, the lesions were characterised by localised degeneration of fibrocartilage with underlying focal osteonecrosis and fibroplasia. The adjacent deep digital flexor tendon showed fibril formation and fibrocartilaginous metaplasia.

Conclusions: Deep erosions of the palmar aspect of the navicular bone are more easily diagnosed by standing low field MR imaging than by conventional radiography. The lesions involve degeneration of the palmar fibrocartilage with underlying osteonecrosis and fibroplasia affecting the subchondral compact bone and medulla, and carry a poor prognosis for return to performance.

Potential relevance: Diagnosis of shallow erosive lesions of the palmar fibrocartilage may allow therapeutic intervention earlier in the disease process, thereby preventing progression to deep erosive lesions.
Pharmacokinetics of carbetocin, a long‐acting oxytocin analogue, following intravenous administration in horses
Authors: SCHRAMME A. R. , PINTO C. R. F. , DAVIS J. , WHISNANT C. S. , WHITACRE M. D.
Published: November 2008

Reason for performing study: Current therapy protocols to treat persistent post mating endometritis and retained fetal membranes in mares typically include the administration of ecbolic drugs. Evaluation of the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of carbetocin, a long‐acting oxytocin analogue, after i.v. administration is required.

Objectives: To determine the pharmacokinetic parameters (principally half‐life) of carbetocin in horses.

Methods: Five mature mares and one gelding received 0.175 mg carbetocin i.v. All animals were monitored periodically throughout the study for elevation in rectal temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate and signs of pain or discomfort. Plasma samples were collected for determination of carbetocin concentrations by radioimmunoassay.

Results: Administration of carbetocin was well tolerated by all horses and its half‐life was 17.2 min.

Conclusions: The half‐life of carbetocin is greater than that previously reported for oxytocin (6.8 min).

Potential relevance: Carbetocin is an attractive alternative to oxytocin therapy in broodmare management.
Histological and ultrastructural evidence that recurrent laryngeal neuropathy is a bilateral mononeuropathy limited to recurrent laryngeal nerves
Authors: HAHN C. N. , MATIASEK K. , DIXON P. M. , MOLONY V. , RODENACKER K. , MAYHEW I. G.
Published: November 2008

Reasons for performing study: Recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) is a common and debilitating peripheral nerve disease of horses, but it remains unclear if this disease is a mono‐ or polyneuropathy. An understanding of the distribution of the neuropathological lesions in RLN affected horses is fundamental to studying the aetiology of this very significant disease of tall horses.

Objective: To determine whether RLN should be classified as a mono‐ or polyneuropathy.

Methods: Multiple long peripheral nerves and their innervated muscles were examined systematically in 3 clinically affected RLN horses

Results: Severe lesions were evident in the left as well as right recurrent laryngeal nerves in all horses, both distally and, in one case, also proximally. No primary axonal lesions were evident in other nerves nor were changes found in their innervated muscles.

Conclusions: RLN is not a polyneuropathy but should be classified as a bilateral mononeuropathy.

Potential relevance: Genetic and local factors specifically affecting the recurrent laryngeal nerves in RLN‐affected horses should now be investigated further.
Days lost from training by two‐ and three‐year‐old Thoroughbred horses: A survey of seven UK training yards
Authors: DYSON P. K. , JACKSON B. F. , PFEIFFER D. U. , PRICE J. S.
Published: November 2008

Reasons for performing study: The first major epidemiological study of injury incidence in the UK flat racing Thoroughbred (TB), published in 1985, found lameness to be the single largest reason for days when horses failed to train. It was considered advisable to ascertain if progress has been made in reducing the problem of musculoskeletal injuries in the intervening period.

Objective: To quantify injury incidence and days lost from training by 2‐ and 3‐year‐old TBs in UK training yards during 2002 and 2003.

Methods: One‐hundred‐and‐eighty‐two yearling TBs were recruited at the end of 2001 and daily training and injury records maintained over the following 2 training and racing seasons. Days were defined as lost from training when a horse failed to train at a slow canter speed or faster, and could be assigned to one of 4 categories: lameness, medical, traumatic and unknown. The incidence and number of days lost due to specific injuries and medical conditions was determined by further subdividing the lameness and medical categories.

Results: The study period provided a total of 52,601 2‐year‐old and 29,369 3‐year‐old days available for training, with 2‐year‐olds failing to train on a significantly greater proportion of days available than 3‐year‐olds. Lameness was the most important condition causing horses to miss training, with stress fractures being the most important cause of lameness. Medical conditions were a relatively minor cause of days lost from training, accounting for approximately 5% of untrained days in the 2 age groups.

Conclusions: In UK flat racehorses there has been little change in the proportion of days lost from training due to lameness over the last 20 years.

Potential relevance: This study highlights the need for further efforts to reduce the problem of lameness in the racing TB.
Epidemiological study design and the advancement of equine health
Authors: FOSGATE G.T. , COHEN N. D.
Published: November 2008

The primary purposes of epidemiological investigations are to learn about causal mechanisms related to disease incidence and identify factors for therapy and prevention. Epidemiological studies can be observational — further categorised as descriptive or analytical — or experimental. Investigators performing experimental studies, or randomised controlled trials (RCTs), randomly assign treatments or exposures to study participants for the expressed purpose of the study.

The most frequently encountered observational epidemiological studies employed to investigate issues of equine health are cohort, case‐control, cross‐sectional and case series. A cohort study is an investigation in which the researcher follows (observes) a group, termed the cohort, over time to measure incidence of a particular outcome. A case‐control study is an investigation in which the researcher selects a group of affected individuals (cases) and a comparison group (controls) to investigate factors associated with being a case. A cross‐sectional study investigates a group of individuals for study that is often defined by membership in a target population and data concerning outcome and exposure are either collected related to the same time‐point or data are collected by investigators at the same time. Case series are descriptive studies used to generate hypotheses concerning predictors of disease or recovery that can be performed retrospectively or prospectively. The best evidence for clinical practice is often derived from patient‐centred observational epidemiological studies and it is imperative that equine veterinarians become familiar with study designs for the appropriate interpretation of epidemiological findings.
Clinical trials using a telemetric endoscope for use during over‐ground exercise: A preliminary study
Authors: FRANKLIN S. H. , BURN J. F. , ALLEN K. J.
Published: November 2008

Dynamic collapse of the upper respiratory tract (URT) is a common cause of poor performance in horses. These conditions occur predominantly during strenuous exercise when the URT is unable to maintain dilation in the face of high inspiratory pressures. In most cases, these disorders cannot be accurately diagnosed during a resting endoscopic examination. To date, a definitive diagnosis of dynamic URT obstructions has been possible only by performing an endoscopic examination during high‐speed treadmill exercise. However, recent technological advances now enable URT endoscopy to be performed while the horse is exercising in its normal environment.
Primary haemangiosarcoma in the proximal humerus of a Clydesdale gelding
Authors: Cottle H. J. , Hughes K. J. , Philbey A. W. , Pollock P. J.
Published: November 2008

An 11‐year‐old Clydesdale gelding was presented for investigation of left forelimb lameness of 2 weeks' duration. The use of scintigraphic imaging helped to localise the source of lameness to the left proximal humerus. In this report, the clinical and diagnostic imaging features of a primary osseous haemangiosarcoma in a horse are described, along with the challenges of establishing a definitive diagnosisante mortem.In addition, neoplasia of the appendicular skeleton should be considered a differential cause of lameness in the horse.
Tracheal rupture in a native pony mare associated with a condition resembling tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica
Authors: Spanton J. A. , Henderson I. S. F. , Krudewig C. , Mair T. S.
Published: November 2008

A 5‐year‐old pony presented with sudden onset of severe respiratory distress associated with tracheal rupture and peritracheal emphysema. Subsequent endoscopic examination revealed multiple mucosal nodules protruding into the tracheal lumen. Biopsy of the tracheal wall revealed well‐demarcated submucosal cartilagenous/osseous nodules. The appearance was considered to resemble tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica.
Occupational disability and job satisfaction in the equine veterinary profession: How sustainable is this ‘tough job’ in a changing world?
Authors: Loomans J. B. A. , van Weeren‐Bitterling M. S. , van Weeren P. R. , Barneveld A.
Published: November 2008

This study used a questionnaire to evaluate the working situation, associated injuries and diseases of equine practitioners in the Netherlands. Equine veterinary work is physically demanding, strenuous and predisposes to diseases and injuries. Despite this, male and female equine practitioners alike appreciate their jobs and hardly ever take sick leave. There was no cynical attitude towards their own profession, but there was awareness of the risks and physical consequences, which are more or less taken for granted by the contemporary equine veterinarians. The profession still appeals to new generations of young practitioners, at least in most European countries, but there is no guarantee that this will remain so. It is the task of the profession itself to anticipate the impending changes, by improving conditions for pregnancy and childcare, for example, and to put more effort in educating (future) equine veterinary professionals about their personal health situation and work‐associated risks. The objectives will be to attract well‐prepared professionals and veterinary entrepreneurs.
Recurrent colics in a 9‐year‐old Arabian stallion due to several congenital anomalies
Authors: Robert M. P. , Benamou‐Smith A. E. , Cadore J. L. , Rosengarten M. S. , Lepage O. M.
Published: November 2008

A 9‐year‐old Arabian stallion was presented for evaluation of recurrent colic problems of 2 years' duration. These colic episodes were associated with a right sided abdominal distension. An exploratory laparotomy revealed a colonic diverticulum that was resected en bloc. Two days later, following signs of acute colic, a second laparotomy showed incarceration of the distal jejunum into a mesodiverticular band combined with haemorrhage of a mesenteric arterial branch. In addition, an abnormally short jejunum (10 m) was also observed. An end‐to‐end jejunojejunostomy was performed. Following surgery the horse developed septic peritonitis, ptyalism and became dysphagic. Ten days after the second surgery, an infected oesophageal diverticulum causing regional inflammation was diagnosed endoscopically and euthanasia was performed. Post mortem examination showed a 40 cm long diverticulum lateral to the oesophagus. Histology suggested a congenital nature of the colonic and oesophageal diverticuli.
Rupture of a penile artery and erectile body. An uncommon cause of dysuria in a horse
Authors: Ferris R. , Franklin R. , Adams A. , Miller C.
Published: November 2008

In this case report, we describe the clinical features and treatment of a Thoroughbred gelding presented for dysuria caused by rupture of a penile artery, with subsequent tear to the bulbospongiosus muscle and corpus spongiosum due to suspected blunt force trauma.
The use of acupuncture beads to control exuberant granulation tissue in equine skin wounds: A preliminary study
Authors: Frauenfelder H.
Published: November 2008

Skin lacerations on the hind legs of horses often cause large defects on the cranial surface of the hock and cannon regions. The treatment of these present significant logistic problems due to the amount of movement of the area and the difficulties of bandaging and immobilisation, as well as a tendency to form exuberant granulation tissue (or ‘proud flesh’)

Acupuncture beads were used as a means of suppressing granulation and maximising epithelial ingrowth, using the principle that ‘acupuncture has been shown to help bring the body back towards normality’. The aim in these cases was healing of the skin lesions with the least effort and cost possible.

The technique eliminated the need for resection of any granulation tissue after the beads were implanted, the amount of bandaging was drastically reduced and eliminated in a lot of cases, and the results were cosmetically very acceptable and functional. Digital photography and measurements of the changes in the size of the lesions were used to document the results.

This study shows that the formation of exuberant granulation tissue or ‘proud flesh’ in equine skin wounds on the cranial surface of the hock and cannon bone can be controlled by a single acupuncture bead treatment. Long‐term follow‐up of the cases over 18+ months confirms the ongoing effects of the acupuncture beads, resulting in the completion of wound healing and reduction of fibrosis.
Diagnosis of bacterial infections. Part 1: Principles of sample collection and transportation
Authors: Hodgson J. L. , Hughes K. J. , Hodgson D. R.
Published: November 2008

Bacterial infections are common in equine practice, therefore it is important that diseases caused by these organisms are diagnosed accurately. Collection of appropriate samples in a correct and timely manner is fundamental to determining the causative agent. Furthermore, transportation of samples to the laboratory must ensure that the agents survive and can be identified. This paper outlines a recommended diagnostic approach when bacteria are suspected, the samples that may be obtained in order to confirm their presence, and the transportation requirements to facilitate their isolation in diagnostic laboratories.
Nerve atrophy and a small cerebellopontine angle cistern in patients with trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Park Seong-Hyun , Hwang Sung-Kyoo , Lee Sun-Ho , Park Jaechan , Hwang Jeong-Hyun , Hamm In-Suk
Published: October 2008

Object

The aim of this study was to provide information to help confirm the diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) using MR imaging.

Methods

The authors evaluated atrophy of the trigeminal nerve, the cross-sectional area of the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) cistern, and the length of the cisternal segment of the trigeminal nerve on the affected side in 26 consecutive patients with TN who were treated using Gamma Knife surgery.

Results

The mean volume of the trigeminal nerve on the affected side was significantly smaller than the mean volume of the trigeminal nerve on the unaffected side (p < 0.001). Nerve atrophy was present in 25 patients (96.2%) on the affected side and in 1 patient on the unaffected side. The mean cross-sectional area of the CPA cistern on the affected side (188.5 mm2) was significantly smaller than the mean volume on the unaffected side (232.8 mm2) in 25 of the 26 patients (p = 0.001). The mean length of the cisternal segment of the trigeminal nerve on the affected side (7.9 mm) was significantly shorter than the mean length on the unaffected side (9.6 mm) in 25 of the 26 patients (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Among the patients with TN, there was a statistically significant difference in the MR imaging findings of the affected side compared with the unaffected side of the trigeminal nerve. Atrophy of the trigeminal nerve and a small CPA cistern in patients with TN provides additional markers for the diagnosis of TN and helps confirm the diagnosis based on clinical examination.
Failed age-dependent maturation of the occipital condyle in patients with congenital occipitoatlantal instability and Down syndrome: a preliminary analysis
Authors: Browd Samuel R. , McIntyre J. Steele , Brockmeyer Douglas
Published: October 2008

Object

Normative morphological data pertaining to the development of the occipital condyle have not been reported. The first goal of this study was to establish normative data characterizing the shape of the occipital condyle in healthy children. The second objective of the study was to compare these data with measurements collected in patients with congenital occipitoatlantal instability (COI) or Down syndrome (DS). The effectiveness of CT and plain radiography data was also compared.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed data obtained in 39 patients (14 with DS/COI and 25 age-matched controls). Patients underwent plain lateral radiography and CT scanning of the cervical spine. Normalized measurements of the occipital condyle were obtained for both groups using plain radiography and CT imaging techniques.

Results

The curvature of the occipital condyle in healthy children increased by 60% from infancy to adolescence. Comparison of condylar morphology on plain lateral radiographs and CT scans in patients with DS/COI and in age-matched controls demonstrated a significant difference in mean normalized depth/length ratios. Comparison of curvature data obtained using plain lateral cervical radiography with measurements obtained using cervical CT scanning demonstrated a correlation coefficient of 0.63. However, intra- and interobserver reliability for plain radiographic analysis of the occipital condyle was poor (r2 = 0.40 and 0.44, respectively).

Conclusions

Patient with DS/COI who have occipitoatlantal instability fail to develop the curved architecture in the occipital condyle that occurs in age-matched controls over time. Sagittal 2D CT reconstructions accurately determine the precise structure of the occipital condyle, although the indications for CT scanning are limited. Because of the poor intra- and interrater reliability on static plain radiographs, dynamic flexion/extension cervical spine radiographs remain the study of choice by which to directly evaluate occipitocervical motion.
New records of phytoplankton for Bangladesh. 7. Phacus spp.
Authors: Khondker Moniruzzaman , Bhuiyan Rauf Ahmed , Yeasmin Jenat , Alam Munirul , Sack R Bradley , Huq Anwar , Colwell Rita R
Published: November 2008

Thirteen species of Phacus hitherto not reported from Bangladesh have been described and illustrated. Freshwater ponds at southern districts of Pirojpur and Barisal revealed these presence of the species. Â  Key words: Phytoplankton, New records, Bangladesh, Phacus, Ponds doi:10.3329/bjb.v37i1.1564 Bangladesh J. Bot. 37(1): 55-60, 2008 (June)
Antimicrobial activity of leaf extracts of Eupatorium triplinerve Vehl. against some human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi
Authors: Rahman Md Shafiqur , Junaid Mohammad
Published: November 2008

Petroleum ether, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, and ethyl acetate extracts of Eupatorium triplinerve Vehl. leaves were investigated for their antimicrobial activities against 11 human pathogenic bacteria and six phytopathogenic fungi. The crude extracts showed good activity against the organisms tested herein. The chloroform extract exhibited the largest zone of inhibition (22 mm in diam with 1000 Î¼g/disc extract) against Vibrio and the highest inhibition of fungal radial mycelial growth (73.5% with 100 Î¼g extract/ml medium) against Colletotrichum corchori. The chloroform extract exhibited the lowest MIC against Vibrio (250 Î¼g/ml) and C. corchori (62.5 Î¼g/ml). It appeared that E. triplinerve could be a potential natural source of new antimicrobial agent. Â Â  Key words: Antimicrobial activity, Leaf extract, Eupatorium triplinerve doi:10.3329/bjb.v37i1.1570 Bangladesh J. Bot. 37(1): 89-92, 2008 (June)
Incidence of Liver Flukes and Gastro-Intestinal Parasites in Cattle
Authors: Sardar SA , Ehsan MA , Anower AKMM , Rahman MM , Islam MA
Published: October 2008

The prevalence and seasonal variation in liver fluke and gastro-intestinal parasites were studied in native (n = 360) and crossbred (n = 360) cattle with four age groups ( < 12 months, >12-24 months, >24-36 months and >36 months) and three seasons (summer, rainy and winter) in Trishal Upazilla, Mymensingh district for a period of November 2002 to October 2003. Feces were collected to examine the worm load in each of the animal. The maximum rate of infection of gastro-intestinal parasite was recorded in crossbred cattle with the exception of Strongylid. In the rainy season highest gastro-intestinal parasitic infestation was observed. The infection rates of Fasciola, Paramphistomum, Trichuris and Schistosoma were highest in the age group >36 months and lowest in the age group < 12 months. The infection rates of Ascaris, Strongylid, Strongyloids and Moniezia were very high in the age group < 12 months and low in the age group >36 months. Key words: Incidence, liver fluke, gastro-intestinal parasites, native and crossbred cattle doi:10.3329/bjvm.v4i1.1523 Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2006). 4 (1): 39-42
Wound‐induced vascular occlusions in Vitis vinifera (Vitaceae): Tyloses in summer and gels in winter1
Authors: Sun Qiang , Rost Thomas L. , Matthews Mark A.
Published: November 2008

Vascular occlusion in xylem conduits is a common response to environmental stresses, and plant species are recognized as primarily tylose‐forming or gel‐forming. These stresses occur throughout the year, but there is little information on the wound responses throughout the year and in growing and dormant tissues. Wound‐induced vascular occlusions were evaluated by type (tylose or gel), temporal progress, and spatial distribution for grape stems pruned in four seasons through an entire year. Tyloses were formed predominantly in summer and gels in winter. Cytohistological analyses indicated that wound‐induced gels were pectin‐rich. Both gel formation and tylose development were complete within 7 d and 10 mm from the cut regardless of the season of the wounding. Most vessels were affected by wounding, but a higher fraction of vessels developed occlusions in summer and autumn (over 80%) than in winter and spring (about 60%). The study is the first to show a single species is capable of producing primarily either tyloses or gels and that the type of wound‐induced occlusion is dependent upon the season in which wounding occurs. Winter conditions limit the wound response to reversible gel formation that may contribute to refilling of embolized vessels in the spring.
The sporophyte‐less filmy fern of eastern North America Trichomanes intricatum (Hymenophyllaceae) has the chloroplast genome of an Asian species
Authors: Ebihara Atsushi , Farrar Donald R. , Ito Motomi
Published: November 2008

Trichomanes intricatum, the sporophyte‐less filmy fern of the eastern United States, has been considered to be a species whose sporophyte generation has become extinct or is possibly still present among the many species of Trichomanes s.l. in the new world tropics but unable to grow in a temperate climate. A close relationship to Asian species has heretofore not been considered. Comparison of rbcL and rps4‐trnS sequences to species of Trichomanes s.l. reveals that T. intricatum shares its chloroplast genome with Crepidomanes schmidtianum of eastern Asia. Because C. schmidtianum is a sterile triploid and the ploidy level of T. intricatum is unknown, several scenarios leading to their sharing of these maternally inherited genes must be explored.
Bromus tectorum (Poaceae) in midcontinental United States: Population genetic analysis of an ongoing invasion
Authors: Schachner Lauren J. , Mack Richard N. , Novak Stephen J.
Published: November 2008

Biological invasions can be substantially influenced by the genetic sampling associated with a species’ introduction. As a result, we assessed the genetic and evolutionary consequences of the entry and spread of the invasive grass Bromus tectorum (cheatgrass) across the United States midcontinent through an analysis of 54 populations, using enzyme electrophoresis. On average, these populations display 1.04 alleles per locus (A), 4.1% percent polymorphic loci per population (%P) and an expected mean heterozygosity (Hexp) value of 0.009. Heterozygotes, which have been rarely reported for B. tectorum in North America, occur in three populations in the midcontinent and are likely novel multilocus genotypes that arose postimmigration. The midcontinent distribution of multilocus genotypes suggests that plant immigrants came directly from either the native range or the eastern United States, or both. Continued dispersal of preadapted genotypes and the assembly of populations that are genetic admixtures may enhance this invasion by increasing both the genetic diversity within populations and the selection of novel genotypes arising from occasional outcrossing. The potential for postimmigration evolution in most species points to the largely unrecognized need to block the introduction of new, potentially aggressive genotypes of an alien species already in the United States.
Taxonomical, nomenclatural and chorological novelties in the genus Pachira Aubl. (Bombacaceae)
Authors: Fernández Alonso José Luis
Published: October 2008

A new species, Pachira nukakica Fernández-Alonso from Amazonian Colombia is described and illustrated. Due to the transfer of six species of Bombacopsis Pitt. and two of Rhodognaphalopsis Robyns to Pachira Aubl., eight new combinaúons are proposed. Finally, the first records from Colombian territory of four additional species are cited.
A study of fossil plant remains at the archaeological site in Lomilla (Aguilar de Campoo, Palencia, Spain)
Authors: Alcalde Olivares Cristina , García-Amorena Ignacio , Gómez Manzaneque Fernando , Maldonado Ruiz Javier , Morla Juaristi Carlos , Postigo Mijarra José María
Published: October 2008

The discovery of a site with abundant fossil plant remains in the surroundings of Aguilar de Campoo (Palencia, Spain), dated in the early Holocene, allowed us to obtain new data on the composition of foreste in that área. Two species of Pinus and several broadleaved trees have been identified. A wider distribution than the current one for some of these taxa has been confirmed. The ecological requirements of these species today allow the probable Palaeoecological conditions during the Holocene to be established.
Revision of the genus Dasya (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) in Galicia (NW Spain) and the addition of a new alien species Dasya sessilis Yamada for the European Atlantic coasts
Authors: Peña Viviana , Bárbara Ignacio
Published: October 2008

A revision of the genus Dasya in northwestern Iberian Peninsula is presented. Three species (Dasya hutchinsiae, D. ocellata and D. sessilis) are confirmed whilst other three (Dasya corymbifera, D. punicea and D. rigidula) are excluded from the Galician seaweeds flora. The alien species Dasya sessilis Yamada is a new record for the European Atlantic coasts. The study of the herbarium material reveals that D. sessilis was misidentified with other Dasyaceae species and that it has been collected on the Galician coasts for more than 16 years. Morphological and anatomical features of D. sessilis as well as its distribution and chronological data on the Galician coasts are provided. A comparison of the Iberian specimens with the Mediterranean and Asian plants is also included. Dasya sessilis was found growing on a wide range of substrata, from the lower intertidal to subtidal at moderate wave-exposed and sheltered areas. It is abundant in harbours and aquaculture areas together with other alien species such as Heterosiphonia japonica and Undaria pinnatifida. The comparative study between D. sessilis and similar European and Iberian Dasyaceae species is undertaken to prevent further misidentifications. Dasya sessilis is the largest Dasya species, with broader main axes (1-2 mm wide vs 200-500 µm in D. ocellata and 500-600 µm in D. hutchinsiae); pseudolaterals of D. sessilis are 3-5 times pseudodichotomously branched compared to 5-8 times in D. hutchinsiae and 4-5 times in D. ocellata; pseudolateral tips are broader in D. sessilis than in D. ocellata, but smaller than pseudolateral apices of D. hutchinsiae; tetrasporangial stichidium of Dasya sessilis has 6-7 periaxial cells (and 6-7 tetrasporangia) per fertile whorl vs. 4-5 in the rest of the native species; and tetrasporangial stichidia of D. sessilis are longer and cystocarps broader than those in D. hutchinsiae. The alien Dasyaceae species Heterosiphonia japonica, similar in size to Dasya sessilis, differs from it in main axes branching (alternate or distichous in H. japonica vs. spiral in D. sessilis), the number of periaxial cells in the vegetative axes (4 in H. japonica vs. 5 in D. sessilis), and color (pinkish red vs. deep red). Other distinctive characters are the tips of main axes (70-90 µm wide in H. japonica vs. 100-130 µm in D. sessilis), and the diameter of pseudolaterals at the base broader in H. japonica).
Una nueva combinación en Steriphoma paradoxum (Jacq.) Endl. (Capparaceae)
Authors: Cornejo Xavier
Published: October 2008

Steriphoma paradoxum (Jacq.) Endl. subsp. venezolanum (Briq.) X. Cornejo is proposed as a new combination because of marked differences in gynophores, stamens, and pedicels between the Mesoamerican and Venezuelan populations. The Briquet binomial is recovered for the subspecific range.
Sloanea esmeraldana Pal.-Duque, sp. nov. (Elaeocarpaceae) from the Chocó Department (Colombia).
Authors: Palacios-Duque Leonardo
Published: October 2008

Sloanea esmeraldana (Elaeocarpaceae) from the central Chocó (Colombia) rainforest is described here. The new species is included in section Brevispicae, where it is to be characterized by its ovoid capsules 2.65-2.9 cm in length, 1.4-1.75 cm in diameter, its straight, irritant, purple to blackish spines 3-5 mm in length, and its mumerous seeds, (2.5)3.5(4) mm in length, 1.5- 2.5 mm in diameter.
Studies of Neotropical Apocynaceae XXXIII: new synonymy and lectotypifications in the Amazonic species of the genus Mandevilla Lindl. (Apocynoideae, Mesechiteae).
Authors: Morales J. Francisco
Published: October 2008

In preparation of the Catalogue of Apocynaceae for Colombia and a synopsis of the genus Mandevilla Lindl. in Brazil, the following synonyms are proposed: M. glabra N.E. Brown and M. ulei K. Schum. ex Markgr. as synonyms of M. subcarnosa (Benth) Woodson, M. thevetioides Markgr. and M. manarana Morillo as synonyms of M. nerioides Woodson, and M. spruceana (Müll. Arg.) K. Schum. and M. stephanotidifolia Woodson as synonyms of M. javitensis. Lectotypes are designated for Amblyanthera spruceana Müll. Arg., Echites javitensis Kunth, E. subcarnosus Benth., Mandevilla glabra N.E. Brown, M. thevetioides Markgr., and M. ulei K. Schum. ex Markgr. and a neotype is proposed for M. dielsiana Markgr.
Molecular systematics of the genera Laurencia, Osmundea and Palisada (Rhodophyta) from the Canary Islands - Analysis of rDNA and RUBISCO spacer sequences
Authors: Lewis Sh. , Gacesa P. , Gil-Rodríguez M. C. , Valdés F. , Frías I.
Published: October 2008

The molecular systematics of Laurencia, Osmundea and Palisada (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) species from the Canary Islands has been determined by analysis sequences of the ribulose,1-5, bisphosphate carboxylase (RUBISCO) spacer from the plastid genome and the internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2) and the rDNA 5.8S coding region from the nuclear genome. Comparison of sequence data showed an identity of 72-83 % between the species. Three taxonomic group were identified that correspond to established phylogenetic taxons. Phylogenetic trees using both parsimony and maximum-likelihood methods were derived from the sequence data; the trees indicate that O. pinnatifida appears to be the most distantly related species from the Laurencia and Palisada species. The exact phylogenetic position of Laurencia sp. A (“amarilla”) need additional studies.
Tres siglos de planificación regional en Uruguay: lecciones de experiencia para afrontar los retos de desarrollo en el siglo XXI
Authors: Yagüe José L. , Díaz-Puente José M.
Published: October 2008

La República Oriental del Uruguay se encuentra inmersa en un proceso de reflexión en el que la descentralización como estrategia para promover el desarrollo ocupa un papel destacado en la agenda política. Esto alimenta el debate sobre la necesidad de una reestructuración del espacio nacional, en definitiva de una regionalización para aplicar las políticas de desarrollo. El objetivo del artículo es aportar una visión general del proceso histórico de toma en consideración de la cuestión regional en Uruguay. Para ello se han identificando tres grandes etapas que ayudan a explorar los orígenes de la actual división territorial por Departamentos, así como los sucesivos e infructuosos intentos de regionalizar el país. Este análisis nos lleva a concluir que es necesario afrontar una nueva alternativa cuyo carácter fundamental sea el de un proceso a medio plazo, en el que se promueva la participación voluntaria de los Departamentos a través de estrategias compartidas.
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Long-Term Mortality in Women
Authors: Crump Casey , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: April 2024

Importance

Women with adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm delivery or preeclampsia, have higher future risks of cardiometabolic disorders; however, little is known about their long-term mortality risks. A better understanding of such risks is needed to facilitate early identification of high-risk women and preventive actions.

Objective

To determine long-term mortality risks associated with 5 major adverse pregnancy outcomes in a large population-based cohort of women.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This national cohort study in Sweden used the Swedish Medical Birth Register, containing prenatal and birth information for nearly all deliveries in Sweden since 1973, to identify women who had a singleton delivery during 1973 to 2015. All 2 195 667 such women with information for pregnancy duration and infant birth weight were included in the study. Data were analyzed from March to September 2023.

Exposure

Adverse pregnancy outcomes (preterm delivery, small for gestational age, preeclampsia, other hypertensive disorders, and gestational diabetes), identified from nationwide birth records.

Main Outcome and Measures

All-cause and cause-specific mortality through December 31, 2018. Cox regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality associated with specific adverse pregnancy outcomes, adjusted for other maternal factors. Cosibling analyses assessed for confounding by shared familial (genetic or environmental) factors.

Results

In 56 million person-years of follow-up to a median (IQR) age of 52 (42-61) years, 88 055 women (4%) died (median [IQR] age at death, 59 [50-67] years). All 5 adverse pregnancy outcomes were independently associated with increased mortality. Across the entire follow-up (≤46 years after delivery), adjusted HRs for all-cause mortality associated with specific adverse pregnancy outcomes were as follows: gestational diabetes, 1.52 (95% CI, 1.46-1.58); preterm delivery, 1.41 (95% CI, 1.37-1.44); small for gestational age, 1.30 (95% CI, 1.28-1.32); other hypertensive disorders, 1.27 (95% CI, 1.19-1.37); and preeclampsia, 1.13 (95% CI, 1.10-1.16). All HRs remained significantly elevated even 30 to 46 years after delivery. These effect sizes were only partially (0%-45%) reduced after controlling for shared familial factors in cosibling analyses. Women who experienced multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes had further increases in risk. Several major causes of death were identified, including cardiovascular and respiratory disorders and diabetes.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this large national cohort study, women who experienced any of 5 major adverse pregnancy outcomes had increased mortality risks that remained elevated more than 40 years later. Women with adverse pregnancy outcomes need early preventive evaluation and long-term follow-up for detection and treatment of chronic disorders associated with premature mortality.
Prevalence and Incidence of Fractures in Patients With Nonfunctional Adrenal Tumors
Authors: Lindh Jonatan D. , Patrova Jekaterina , Mannheimer Buster , Falhammar Henrik
Published: April 2024

Importance

It is unclear whether nonfunctional adrenal tumors (NFATs) are associated with fractures.

Objective

To analyze fracture frequencies in individuals with NFATs.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A national retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients with NFATs diagnosed in Sweden between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2019, and control participants without adrenal tumors followed up until death or the end of 2019. Individuals with a diagnosis of adrenal hormonal excess or previous malignant tumors were excluded. Sensitivity analyses were performed in subgroups of individuals with a combination of gallbladder, biliary tract, and pancreas diseases (for whom it was assumed that controls would also have undergone computed tomography) and 3- and 12-month survival free of malignant tumors after the NFAT diagnosis. The data were analyzed from September to November 2023.

Exposures

Diagnosis of NFATs.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Main study outcomes were prevalence and incidence of fractures after adjustment for sex, age, and comorbidities. Secondary outcomes were fragility fractures, fractures with fall on the same level, and fracture locations (distal arm and vertebral and hip fractures). Fracture incidence after adrenalectomy was also studied.

Results

Among 20 390 patients, 12 120 (59.4%) were women, and the median (IQR) age was 66 (57-73) years; among 125 392 controls, 69 994 (55.8%) were women, and the median (IQR) age was 66 (57-73) years. Previous fractures were more common in patients diagnosed with NFATs compared with controls (4310 of 20 390 [21.1%] vs 20 323 of 125 392 [16.2%]; odds ratio [OR], 1.39; 95% CI, 1.34-1.45; adjusted OR [AOR], 1.27; 95% CI, 1.23-1.33). During the follow-up period (median [IQR], 4.9 [2.2-8.2] years), incident fractures were more common in patients with NFATs (3127 of 20 390 [15.3%] vs 16 086 of 125 392 [12.8%]; hazard ratio [HR], 1.40; 95% CI, 1.34-1.45; adjusted HR [AHR], 1.27; 95% CI, 1.22-1.33). An association between NFATs and vertebral fractures was found (AOR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.33-1.72; AHR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.60-2.09). In men younger than 50 years, NFATs were associated with fractures (AOR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.21-1.74; AHR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.20-1.82). There was no association among individuals who had undergone adrenalectomy (AHR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.90-1.38). The association between NFATs and fractures remained significant and of similar magnitude in all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, NFATs were associated with fractures, particularly among younger men; thus, patients with NFATs should have bone health evaluation with appropriate treatment and monitoring, especially in younger men.
A Rare Neurological Presentation of Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease
Authors: Asad Murva , Mehta Arpan R. , Mallon Dermot
Published: April 2024

This case report describes a 17-year-old boy with reduced consciousness and T2-weighted hyperintensity, focal diffusion restriction, and microhemorrhages within the deep gray nuclei and surrounding white matter.
Recreational Cannabis Legalization, Retail Sales, and Adolescent Substance Use Through 2021
Authors: Coley Rebekah Levine , Carey Naoka , Kruzik Claudia , Hawkins Summer Sherburne , Baum Christopher F.
Published: April 2024

This cross-sectional study using survey datasets evaluates recreational cannabis legalization and retail sales policies and adolescent substance use through 2021.
Implementation of a programmatic assessment model in radiation oncology medical physics training
Authors: Barbagallo Cathy , Osborne Kristy , Dempsey Claire
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In 2019, a formal review and update of the current training program for medical physics residents/registrars in Australasia was conducted. The purpose of this was to ensure the program met current local clinical and technological requirements, to improve standardization of training across Australia and New Zealand and generate a dynamic curriculum and programmatic assessment model.

Methods

A four‐phase project was initiated, including a consultant desktop review of the current program and stakeholder consultation. Overarching program outcomes on which to base the training model were developed, with content experts used to update the scientific content. Finally, assessment specialists reviewed a range of assessment models to determine appropriate assessment methods for each learning outcome, creating a model of programmatic assessment.

Results

The first phase identified a need for increased standardized assessment incorporating programmatic assessment. Seven clear program outcome statements were generated and used to guide and underpin the new curriculum framework. The curriculum was expanded from the previous version to include emerging technologies, while removing previous duplication. Finally, a range of proposed assessments for learning outcomes in the curriculum were generated into the programmatic assessment model. These new assessment methods were structured to incorporate rubric scoring to provide meaningful feedback.

Conclusions

An updated training program for Radiation Oncology Medial Physics registrars/residents was released in Australasia. Scientific content from a previous program was used as a foundation and revised for currency with the ability to accommodate a dynamic curriculum model. A programmatic model of assessment was created after comprehensive review and consultation. This new model of assessment provides more structured, ongoing assessment throughout the training period. It contains allowances for local bespoke assessment, and guidance for supervisors by the provision of marking templates and rubrics.
Enhanced Oxidation Resistance of ZrB2–SiC–WC Composite below 1800 °C
Authors: Nussbaum Elad , Shter Gennady E. , Mann‐Lahav Meirav , Grader Gideon S.
Published: April 2024

The effect of 3.6 vol% WC addition to ZrB2–20 vol% SiC (ZSW) on oxidation resistance is studied over a broad range of oxidation temperatures, 1000–1800 °C. Non‐WC‐containing samples (ZS) show significant surface damage and degradation during oxidation, losing protective B2O3 and SiO2‐based surface layers and exposing a porous ZrO2 layer and base material for further oxidation. ZSW samples preserve their surface protective layers during oxidation up to 1800 °C while the underlying ZrO2 scale remains dense. The appearance of convection cells on the surface of ZSW samples during oxidation above 1600 °C is reported. This confirms the presence of boron‐rich phases, suppressing oxygen permeation into the material and enhancing oxidation resistance of ZSW samples. During exposure of the samples to 1800 °C for 15 min, ZS and ZSW samples gain 11.1 ± 1.5 and 7.8 ± 0.3 mg cm−2, respectively, due to oxidation. Exposure of the composites for 5 h at 1600 °C results in weight gains of 10.5 and 7.0 mg cm−2 for ZS and ZSW samples, respectively. Cross sections of oxidized samples at 1800 °C show a tight zirconia layer below a glassy surface in ZSW and complete loss of surface glass in ZS, demonstrating the effectiveness of WC addition.
Electrochemical Surface Nanostructuring of Ti47Cu38Fe2.5Zr7.5Sn2Si1Ag2 Metallic Glass for Improved Pitting Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Fernández‐Navas Nora , Querebillo Christine Joy , Tiwari Kirti , Hantusch Martin , Shtefan Viktoriia , Pérez Nicolás , Rizzi Paola , Zimmermann Martina , Gebert Annett
Published: April 2024

Ti‐based bulk metallic glasses are envisioned for human implant applications. Yet, while their elevated Cu content is essential for a high glass‐forming ability, it poses biocompatibility issues, necessitating a reduction in near‐surface regions. To address this, surface treatments that simultaneously generate protective and bioactive states, based on nanostructured Ti and Zr‐oxide layers are proposed. An electrochemical pseudo‐dealloying process using the bulk glass‐forming Ti47Cu38Fe2.5Zr7.5Sn2Si1Ag2 alloy is defined. Melt‐spun ribbons are immersed in hot concentrated nitric acid solution, monitoring the anodic polarization behavior. From the current density transient measurements, together with surface studies (field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Auger electron spectroscopy), the surface reactions are described. This nanostructuring process is divided into three stages: passivation, Cu dissolution, and slow oxide growth, leading to homogenous nanoporous and ligament structures. By tuning the applied potential, the pore and ligament sizes, and thickness values are adjusted. According to X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, these nanoporous structures are Ti and Zr‐oxides rich in hydrous and nonhydrous states. In a simulated physiological solution, for those treated glassy alloy samples, complete suppression of chloride‐induced pitting corrosion in the anodic regime of water stability is achieved. This high corrosion resistance is similar to that of clinically used cp‐Ti.