bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Soil compaction effects on utilization of nitrogen from livestock slurry applied to grassland
Authors: Douglas J. T. , Crawford C. E. 
Published: March 2003

In order to determine whether wheel‐induced soil damage affected the subsequent utilization of livestock slurry by grass managed for silage production, dry‐matter yield and nitrogen offtake were compared in a replicated field experiment over three years in the presence or absence of soil compaction. Typical and zero compaction were compared in each year, and nominal controlled compaction was included in the two later years. Soil structure, as characterized by porosity and hydraulic conductivity measurements, was of poorest quality in the typical compaction treatment. Averaged over 3 years, typical compaction resulted in an annual yield reduction, relative to non‐compaction, of 2·14 t has−1 (20%) and 1·66 t ha−1 (13%) when 198 and 285 kg N ha−1 respectively were provided as ammonium nitrate fertilizer plus slurry‐derived ammonium‐N. The largest and most consistent yield reductions as a result of compaction occurred at first harvest each year following slower growth on the most compacted soil of the typical treatment. In general, compaction‐induced yield penalties increased with increased soil wetness. Offtake of nitrogen from both fertilizer alone and slurry and fertilizer combined was significantly reduced by soil compaction. First‐harvest yield response to increasing N rate was larger in the zero compaction treatment than in the typical treatment. Averaged over 3 years, the total annual apparent recovery of applied nitrogen was 55% after typical compaction and 71% after zero compaction. It was likely that the larger proportion of non‐recovered N in the former was lost as a consequence of greater surface run‐off, denitrification and ammonia volatilization. Over 2 years, the yield and nitrogen offtake trends in the controlled compaction treatment were intermediate between those of the zero and typical treatments, and in general more similar to the former than to the latter.The results indicated that when livestock slurry is recycled as a source of nitrogen, prevention of soil compaction is an important component of efficient and environmentally protective grassland management.
Effect of time of day on grazing behaviour by lactating dairy cows
Authors: Gibb M. J. , Huckle C. A. , Nuthall R. 
Published: March 2003

An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of time of day on the rate of intake of herbage by grazing dairy cows. Eight unsupplemented Holstein Friesian cows in their fourth month of lactation grazed grass swards maintained at a sward surface height of 6·5 cm. Commencing at 07.00, 11.30, 16.00 and 19.00 h, intake rates were estimated by measuring the liveweight change, corrected for insensible weight loss, over a period of 1 h while grazing. During the period of grazing, recordings of jaw movement activity were made to determine total eating time, number of grazing jaw movements (GJMs) and bites. Total eating time over 24 h was measured: once before and once after determination of intake rate.Although time of day did not affect GJM rate, it had a quadratic effect on the proportion of GJMs represented by biting and non‐biting jaw movements, resulting in a significant effect on bite rate. Bite rate showed a quadratic effect of time, decreasing between 07.00 and 11.30 h, and then increasing by 16.00 h to reach a maximum at 19.00 h (52·6, 47·5, 51·6 and 59·4 bites min−1 respectively). Bite mass (mg fresh matter bite−1) was greatest at 07.00 h because of the lower dry‐matter (DM) content of the herbage and the presence of surface moisture at that time, but the effect of time of day was not significant. Mean bite mass measured as DM or organic matter (OM) differed significantly between the different times of day (332, 384, 481 and 402 mg DM and 302, 348, 438 and 367 mg OM bite−1 respectively). The net result of these differences in bite rate and bite mass was a linear increase in DM and OM intake rate over the day. The magnitude of such differences will have profound effects on mean daily intakes when calculated as the product of total eating time and intake rate.
Priority for allocation of water‐soluble carbohydrate reserves during regrowth of Lolium perenne
Authors: Donaghy  , Fulkerson  
Published: March 2003

A glasshouse study was undertaken to determine the priority within the perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) plant for leaf and root growth and daughter tiller initiation after defoliation, in relation to various levels of water‐soluble carbohydrate (WSC) reserves at defoliation. Individual plants were arranged in mini‐swards, and underwent varying defoliation frequencies and ambient temperatures before defoliation, and harvest heights at defoliation, to obtain a gradient of WSC content at H1, the date when all plants were defoliated. Defoliation interval consisted of defoliating either three times at the one new leaf tiller–1 stage (1‐leaf stage) of regrowth, or once only at the 3‐leaf stage, up to H1, while night temperature in the week prior to H1 was altered from 15°C to either 8 or 20°C. At H1, plants were defoliated to a stubble height of either 20 or 50 mm. Plants were subsequently destructively harvested at days 4, 6, 8, 12, 18 and 27. Leaf and root extension and tiller dynamics were also measured.On a regrowth timescale, tiller initiation was most sensitive, root regrowth moderately sensitive, and leaf regrowth relatively insensitive to a decrease in WSC. The time of daughter tiller initiation also coincided with replenishment of stubble WSC levels.In contrast to this sequence of regrowth events following defoliation, the quantitative effects on growth were different, with elongation and survival of roots most affected by reduced WSC levels. A 30‐fold difference in stubble WSC at H1 between high and low WSC plants (1·52 vs. 0·05 mg tiller–1) produced only a 4‐fold increase in leaf dry matter (DM) after 27 d (2·2 vs. 0·6 g plant−1), while tiller number plant−1 increased 6‐fold (138 vs. 23% increase in tiller number from H1). Root elongation rate was 59 times higher in the high than in the low WSC plants (1·18 vs. 0·02 mm d−1).From a pasture management perspective, the study confirms that defoliation, coinciding with the 3‐leaf stage of regrowth and around a stubble height of 50 mm, optimizes persistence and productivity of perennial ryegrass. By allowing more rapid replenishment of WSC reserves, this optimal defoliation strategy enables a greater proportion of WSC to be allocated to maintain a more active root system, and promotes tillering, compared with more frequent and close defoliation.
Annual cool‐season legumes for forage production in mild winter areas
Authors: Iglesias  , Lloveras  
Published: March 2003

The forage potential of several annual winter legumes – crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.), faba beans (Vicia faba L.), forage peas (Pisum sativum L.), serradella (Ornithopus sativus Brot.) and vetches (Vicia sativa L. and Vicia villosa Roth.) – was evaluated over two growing seasons in the wet and mild winter areas of Galicia (north‐west Spain) with a moderately acid soil, at the two normal harvesting dates in the region, April and May.The results indicate that, in April, serradella and crimson clover (in the warmer location), can produce dry‐matter (DM) yields of 4–5 t ha−1, which is similar to other winter forages in the same area, with an average growing season of 212–237 d, corresponding to about 339–420 accumulated degree–days above 10°C (GDD10). In May, mainly in the warmer location, fava beans, peas and vetches yielded on average 4·7–8·5 t ha−1 DM, with an average growing season of 166–206 d but with only 233–278 GDD10 units. Faba bean, with an average of 8·5 t ha−1 DM in the May harvest, was the highest producing forage legume. The results also suggest that some cool‐season legumes could fit into double‐cropping systems based on summer crops, such as maize, because of their forage yields and nutritive value. However, in order to produce consistent DM yields, the date of sowing is crucial; they must either be sown much earlier than the dates in this study or the harvests must be delayed until the end of April.
Laparoscopic myomectomy during pregnancy
Authors: Luxman Dov , Cohen Jacob R. , David Menachem P. 
Published: March 2003

ObjectiveTo describe a unique case of laparoscopic myomectomy during pregnancy.SettingA university‐affiliated maternity hospital.SubjectA 27‐year‐old primigravida presenting with acute abdominal pain at 15 weeks of gestation. A diagnosis of torsion of a subserous myoma was made following failure of conservative treatment.InterventionOn laparoscopy, a 7‐cm subserous pedunculated myoma was demonstrated. Laparoscopic myomectomy was successfully accomplished.ResultsNo intra‐ or postoperative complications were recorded. The woman delivered vaginally a healthy baby at 39 weeks' gestation.ConclusionsLaparoscopic myomectomy during pregnancy is feasible. This procedure cannot be generally recommended since data concerning the safety of laparoscopic operation in general and myomectomy in particular, are limited. The patients should be carefully selected, and the operation should be performed by an experienced surgeon to guarantee a favourable outcome.
Regression of residual tissue after incomplete resection of submucous myomas
Authors: Dueholm Margit , Forman Axel , Ingerslev Jakob 
Published: March 2003

ObjectiveAssessment of regression of residual tissue after incomplete transcervical resection of myomas (TCRM), by transvaginal ultrasound examination with the use of saline infusion into the cavity (hysterosonographic examination; HSE).SettingsA university teaching department.Subjects45 patients with menometrorrhagia.InterventionsThe patients were followed up with HSE for 6 months after TCRM. The mean diameter of the myomas as assessed by preoperative HSE was 3.2 cm (range 1.5–5). According to the European Society of Gynaeological Endoscopy (ESGE) standards the myomas were classified as 11 type II, 28 type I and 6 type 0 myomas. TCRM was performed until the incision was level with the myometrium. Resection was complete in seven patients, who mainly had pedunculated tumours.ResultsAt 2 weeks after the operation 33 of the 38 patients who had undergone incomplete resection still had residual tissue demonstrated at HSE, and all the patients had endometrial defects. During the following 2 months, re‐resection was performed in three patients because of persistent heavy bleeding. At 3 months after the operation, total regression of residual tissue was found in a further 16 patients. Thus, at 3 months, out of 35 of the patients with an initially incomplete resection, 21 patients showed spontaneous regression. Re‐resection was subsequently performed in four patients and hysterectomy in one patient. During observation for a further 3 months or more, total regression was seen in one patient. Accordingly spontaneous regression was observed in a total of 22 of 35 patients with an incomplete primary resection.ConclusionsThe results indicate that spontaneous regression of residual tissue left behind after incomplete resection of partially intramural submucous myomas is seen in more than half of patients with incomplete primary resection, mainly during the first 3 months.
An assessment of the learning curve for laparoscopic and total laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: B. Rosen David M. , Cario Gregory M. , Carlton Mark A. , Lam Alan M. , Chapman Michael 
Published: March 2003

ObjectiveTo determine guidelines for an appropriate learning curve for laparoscopic hysterectomy for novice and experienced surgeons.DesignAn analysis of the first year of practice, of an experienced laparoscopic surgeon, with a new technique for total laparoscopic hysterectomy, and of the initial year of training for an inexperienced laparoscopic surgeon.Subjects33 patients (group 1) underwent total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) performed by an experienced gynaecological laparoscopic surgeon (G.C.), and 21 patients (group 2) underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) performed by a trainee surgeon (D.R.) under the supervision of one of the experienced surgeons.Main outcome measuresTime for surgery, and peri‐ and postoperative complications were prospectively assessed and analysed as markers of completed learning of the techniques. Correlations between duration of surgery and uterine weight, patient weight, and history of previous abdominal surgery were also sought.ResultsOver the first year the time for the TLH was reduced from 145 min to 80 min (average time 99 min). A plateau for operating time was reached rapidly, at around 10 cases. There were only three minor complications in this group, two of which occurred in the first 10 patients. The time for the trainee surgeon was reduced from 180 min to 105 min during the first year (average 145 min) with complications reported in case numbers 8, 10 and 15. No correlations between surgical time and uterine size, patient weight or history of previous surgery were detected.ConclusionThe learning curve for laparoscopic hysterectomy for a trainee laparoscopic surgeon was seen to improve steadily, allowing unsupervised surgery after 16 cases, before a rise associated with unsupervised cases. This indicates a continuing reduction in operating time with supervised training. With the experienced laparoscopic gynaecological surgeon, the plateau was seen after about 10 procedures. We recommend any trainee or gynaecologist to use this information as a guide to the number of supervised procedures required in order to minimize complications and ensure adequate learning.
The diagnostic accuracy of outpatient miniature hysteroscopy in predicting premalignant and malignant endometrial lesions
Authors: Bakour Shagaf H. , Dwarakanath Linga S. , Khan Khalid S. , Newton John R. 
Published: March 2003

ObjectiveTo determine the accuracy of outpatient miniature hysteroscopy in the diagnosis of premalignant and malignant endometrial lesions.DesignA prospective cohort study (1996–1997).SettingMinimal access surgical training centre in a large teaching hospital.MethodsOutpatient hysteroscopy and endometrial sampling was carried out on 248 patients with abnormal uterine bleeding. Any patients unable to undergo these outpatient procedures were admitted for a formal inpatient hysteroscopy and curettage. Test performance characteristics were computed for hysteroscopy, comparing its findings with the histological diagnosis which served as a ‘gold standard’.Main outcome measuresThe estimate of the accuracy of the hysteroscopic findings was based, for binary results, on sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. For multilevel results, the diagnostic accuracy was computed using likelihood ratios (LRs). With a normal hysteroscopy result, an LR of <1 indicated a decreased probability that a premalignant/malignant lesion was present, whereas with an abnormal hysteroscopy result, an LR of >1 indicated an increased probability that such a lesion was present.ResultsHysteroscopy revealed features of normal endometrium in 228 women, of whom 12 were found histologically to have premalignant hyperplasia/cancer. Hysteroscopic features of premalignant/malignant endometrial lesions were suspected in 20 patients but the diagnosis was confirmed histologically in six cases only. This amounted to a sensitivity of 33.3% (95% confidence intervals (CI) 14.4–58.8), a specificity of 93.9% (95% CI 89.8–96.5), a positive predictive value of 30.3%. (95% CI 12.8–54.3), and a negative predictive value of 94.7%. (95%CI 90.8–97.1). Analysis using likelihood ratios revealed that for a normal hysteroscopy the LR was 0.7 (95% CI 0.5–0.9). The LR was 1.9 (95% CI 0.5–6.6) when there was intermediate abnormality (increased endometrial thickness, abnormal vascularization, polypoid formations, mamillations and cerebroid irregularities). The LR was 51.1 (95% CI 7.9–326.9) when there was definite hysteroscopic abnormality (intermediate abnormality features associated with irregular polylobular friable excrescences with necrosis or bleeding).ConclusionThe probability of the presence of a premalignant/malignant lesion is not particularly altered by the finding of normal hysteroscopic appearances or of intermediately abnormal features. However, if the hysteroscopic findings are definitely abnormal, the probability of there being a premalignant/malignant lesion is substantially increased. Normal findings at hysteroscopy are not conclusive and do not eliminate the need for endometrial sampling as they are not a substitute for benign findings on histological investigation.
How much gas is required for initial insufflation at laparoscopy?
Authors: Phillips Graham , Garry Ray , Kumar Chandra , Reich Harry 
Published: March 2003

ObjectiveTo determine how much gas is required for initial insufflation of the abdomen at laparoscopy.DesignA prospective observational study.SettingSpecialized minimal access gynaecological operating theatre in a district general hospital.Subjects43 female patients undergoing laparoscopy.InterventionsIn 30 patients, changes in the vertical depth of the pneumoperitoneum at the umbilicus were measured when the volume and pressure of the insufflated CO2 was changed. The depth was also measured in response to changes in the downward force applied to the umbilicus with insertion of the primary cannula. Non‐invasive monitoring of respiratory and circulatory parameters was carried out on a further 13 patients during these procedures and with variation in head‐down tilt.Main outcome measuresThe vertical depth of the pneumoperitoneum, and cardiovascular and respiratory parameters.ResultsWhen a downward force of 3 kg force is applied at the umbilicus, the mean vertical depth of the pneumoperitoneum is only 0.6 cm (the range includes zero) when the intra‐abdominal pressure is 10 mmHg (approximately equivalent to insufflation of 3 l CO2). This increases to 5.6 cm (range 4–8) when the intra‐abdominal pressure is raised to 25 mmHg. The mean volume of CO2 required to achieve a pressure of 25 mmHg is 5.58 l (range 3.7–11.1). The maximum respiratory effects of the 25‐mmHg intra‐abdominal pressure (with the patient flat) are no greater than the effect of the Trendelenburg position with an intra‐abdominal pressure of 15 mmHg. No adverse circulatory effects are demonstrated.ConclusionsThis 25‐mmHg pressure‐limited method produces a greater splinting of the abdominal wall and a deeper gas bubble than the traditional volume‐limited pneumoperitoneum of 2–3 l, which should lead to a reduced risk of injury.
Total laparoscopic tube hysterectomy: a safer option?
Authors: O'Shea Robert T. , Gordon Simon J. , Seman Elvis I. , Verco Christopher J. 
Published: March 2003

Objective  To compare outcomes in women undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy performed with the assistance of a colpotomizing tube (TLTH), with those in women in whom a laparoscopically assisted hysterectomy (LAH) procedure was performed. Design  A retrospective review of consecutive patients. Setting  State health service patients were treated at Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, South Australia, and private patients were treated by the same surgeons in three private hospitals in metropolitan Adelaide. Subjects  A total of 227 women who underwent operation between January 1996 and August 1999. Interventions  The women involved in the first two years of this study exclusively underwent an LAH, whilst those in the latter 18 months underwent a TLTH. Main outcome measures  These included intraoperative complications, including significant haemorrhage, ureteric, bladder, vascular and bowel injury; postoperative complication rates for vault infection, late bowel and ureteric injury, and miscellaneous febrile morbidity. Also documented were the operating time, nonautologous blood transfusion, operation–discharge interval, and readmission with a complication. Results  The women having the TLTH procedure had significantly fewer intraoperative complications (χ2 = 8.07, P = 0.004) in comparison with the LAH group; postoperative complications were not statistically different. The mean operating times and readmission rates with surgical complications were equivalent for the two groups. The hospital stay was shorter by 1.5 days for the women having a TLTH (t = 8.39, P < 0.001), and the estimated blood loss was less than half of that for the LAH patients (t = 8.94, P < 0.001); nonautologous blood transfusion was not needed in either group. Conclusion  Total laparoscopic hysterectomy utilizing the nondisposable colpotomizing tube and uterine manipulator has both fewer intraoperative complications and reduced blood loss when compared with laparovaginal hysterectomy, and is a safe alternative to LAH.
Endometriosis of liver and diaphragm: is the diagnosis often missed?
Authors: Bhaumik J. , Hefni M.A. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTObjective To report three cases of endometriosis of the liver, in two of which there was also pleural endometriosis.Subjects Three patients who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy for pelvic pain, two of whom also had pulmonary symptoms.Conclusion A 360‐degree view at laparoscopy is essential in all patients undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy, even though they may be complaining only of pelvic symptoms.
Urinary incontinence after laparoscopic cervical sacropexy for severe uterine prolapse
Authors: Liang Ching‐Chung , Chang Shuenn‐Dhy , Lo Tsia‐Shu 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTObjective To describe successful management of postoperative urinary incontinence in a woman who underwent laparoscopic cervical sacropexy for severe genitourinary prolapse.Setting Tertiary medical center.Subject A 40‐year‐old woman, who suffered from severe uterine prolapse and wished to have her uterus preserved, underwent laparoscopic cervical sacropexy. She began to suffer from stress urinary incontinence at 3 months after surgery.Results The patient underwent a minimally invasive tension‐free vaginal taping using procedure, which allowed her to regain a normal social life.Conclusions The patient's severe uterine prolapse was repaired by means of laparoscopic cervical sacropexy, and she benefited from relatively less postoperative pain and quicker recovery. Although stress urinary incontinence developed 3 months after surgery, the patient regained continence after minimally invasive tension‐free vaginal taping.
The emerging needs of persons living with haemophilia and HIV/AIDS in British Columbia
Authors: TAYLOR  
Published: March 2003

The Haemophilia Programme Enhancement Project (HPEP) was initiated in 1991 to assist Haemophilia Programme staff meet the increasing and complex needs of persons living with haemophilia and HIV/AIDS. A review of the HPEP in 1997 revealed that the needs of this population have changed due to the advances in medical treatment, laboratory monitoring and the proliferation of HIV/AIDS expertise and resources. Continued roles for the HPEP include triage and liaison with HIV specialists to ensure appropriate care, given the possible haematological complications that coexist with HIV and/or liver disease. Access to resources remains problematic for those living in remote regions of British Columbia, and a strong advocacy presence is needed. Services to␣families and children of persons with HIV and haemophilia is required, especially around disclosure and␣preparation for the stresses incurred during hospitalization.The fact that many long‐term survivors are living in relatively good health has sparked renewed optimism amongst this group. Those who continue to do well are in the process of re‐evaluating their lives and may need assistance in establishing both short‐ and long‐term goals. Interventions to sustain hope could include individual and family counselling, facilitated support meetings and a commitment to the provision of vocational rehabilitation counselling, re‐training and job placement. For the first time in years, many persons living with haemophilia and HIV are facing an opportunity to look forward into the future and devise ventures which will enhance their feelings of productivity.