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The Great Calcite Belt (GCB) is a band of high concentrations of suspended particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) spanning the subantarctic Southern Ocean and plays an important role in the global carbon cycle. The key limiting factors controlling coccolithophore growth supporting this high PIC have not yet been well‐characterized in the remote Pacific sector, the lowest PIC but largest area of the GCB. Here, we present in situ physical and biogeochemical measurements along 150°W from January to February 2021, where a coccolithophore bloom occurred. In both months, PIC was elevated in the Subantarctic Zone (SAZ), where nitrate was >1 μM and temperatures were ∼13°C in January and ∼14°C in February, consistent with conditions previously associated with optimal coccolithophore growth potential. The highest PIC was associated with a relatively narrow temperature range that increased about 1°C between occupations. A fresher water mass had been transported to the 150°W meridian between occupations, and altimetry‐informed Lagrangian backtracking estimates show that most of this water was likely transported from the southeast within the SAZ. Applying the observations in a coccolithophore growth model for both January and February, we show that the ∼1.7°C increase in temperature can explain the rise in PIC between occupations. Key Points: Coccolithophore concentrations rose in the Subantarctic Zone in the Pacific sector of the Southern Ocean between January and February 2021Lagrangian particle tracking suggests that the coccolithophore‐associated surface waters observed in February came from the southeastModeling suggests the ∼1.7°C warming can explain the coccolithophore growth in the Subantarctic Zone between occupations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scarcity of wintertime observations of surface ocean carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2) in and near the Gulf Stream creates uncertainty in the magnitude of the regional carbon sink and its controlling mechanisms. Recent observations from an Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV), outfitted with a payload to measure surface ocean and lower atmosphere pCO2, revealed sharp gradients in ocean pCO2 across the Gulf Stream. Surface ocean pCO2 was lower by ∼50 μatm relative to the atmosphere in the subtropical mode water (STMW) formation region. This undersaturation combined with strong wintertime winds allowed for rapid ocean uptake of CO2, averaging −11.5 mmol m−2 day−1 during the February 2019 USV mission. The unique timing of this mission revealed active STMW formation. The USV proved to be a useful tool for CO2 flux quantification in the poorly observed, dynamic western boundary current environment. Plain Language Summary: The North Atlantic Ocean absorbs more atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) than most regions of the global ocean. Using an ocean drone in the Gulf Stream region during the winter of 2019, we measured the air‐sea CO2 difference, calculated the air‐sea CO2 exchange, and compared our results to previous wintertime ship‐based measurements. We find that the region south of the Gulf Stream can absorb vast amounts of atmospheric CO2, owing both to surface ocean properties and the strong wintertime winds. Because of extremely sparse wintertime observations in this region, we hypothesize that ocean uptake of CO2 may be underestimated. Our work suggests that ocean drones can help close the observational gaps that create uncertainty in ocean carbon uptake in challenging regions and seasons, if these vehicles and the sensors they carry can be made robust to large breaking waves. Key Points: Surface waters in the subtropical mode water formation region are lower in pCO2 than in the atmosphere in winter by ∼50 μatmStrong wintertime winds drive atmospheric CO2 into the ocean near the Gulf Stream with high spatial and temporal variabilityUncrewed surface vehicles provide an opportunity to refine quantification and understanding of CO2 exchange near western boundary currents [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzalkonium chloride is commonly found in household products. This retrospective study examined 245 cases of feline exposure to benzalkonium chloride-containing products reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS). A single route of exposure was reported in 188 cats (ingestion 126, skin 58, buccal 4); 57 cats had multiple routes. The common products involved were household antibacterial cleaners (43.6 per cent), household disinfectants (22.3 per cent) and patio cleaners (17.5 per cent). The most common signs were hypersalivation/drooling (53.9 per cent), tongue ulceration (40.4 per cent), hyperthermia (40.4 per cent) and oral ulceration (22.9 per cent). The mean time recorded for onset of the first clinical sign was 6.4 hours (range five minutes to 48 hours, median 4.5 hours, n=60), however, the VPIS was not contacted until 14.0±13.2 hours after exposure (n=120). This figure also reflects the time of presentation. The most common treatments given were antibiotics (82.0 per cent), fluids (50.2 per cent), analgesia (45.3 per cent), gastroprotectants (31.0 per cent), dermal decontamination (24.1 per cent) and steroids (22.7 per cent). 13 cats (5.3 per cent) received syringe or nasogastric feeding. Of 245 cats, 12 (4.9 per cent) remained asymptomatic, 230 (93.9 per cent) recovered and three died (1.2 per cent). The time to recovery ranged from 1 to 360 hours (n=67) with a mean of 100.4±82.0 hours (4.2±3.4 days, median 72 hours). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A retrospective analysis of telephone enquiries to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service found 772 cases with follow-up concerning suspected metaldehyde slug bait ingestion in dogs between 1985 and 2010. Half the enquiries occurred in the summer months. The amount and strength of the slug bait ingested was rarely known. In 56, cases the quantity consumed was estimated and was on average 229.6 grams of bait. Clinical signs developed in 77.3 per cent of dogs; common signs were convulsions, hypersalivation, twitching, hyperaesthesia, tremor, vomiting, hyperthermia and ataxia. Only 4.6 per cent of dogs developed hepatic changes, and only one developed renal impairment. The average time to onset of signs was 2.9 hours post-ingestion, with 50.3 per cent of dogs developing effects within one hour. Increased muscle activity (twitching, convulsions) lasted on average 15.2 hours. Recovery time was reported in 61 cases and occurred on average at 39.3 hours. Common treatments were gut decontamination, anticonvulsants, anaesthetics and intravenous fluids. Of the dogs that were treated with sedatives, 45.8 per cent required more than one sedative or anaesthetic agent. Methocarbamol was rarely used, probably due to unavailability. The outcome was reported in 762 dogs; 21.7 per cent remained asymptomatic, 61.7 per cent recovered and 16 per cent of dogs died or were euthanased. Where known (only six cases), the fatal dose of bait ranged from 4.2 to 26.7 g/kg (average 11.8 g/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study examined cases with follow-up reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) between September 1985 and December 2010. Most bites (69.2 per cent) occurred between April and July, particularly between 15:00 and 16:00 hours. Adder bites were more frequently reported in the south-east of England, particularly in Surrey. Swelling to the face and limbs was common, as was lethargy, depression, hyperthermia and tachycardia. About two-thirds of dogs developed both systemic and local effects, while a third developed local effects alone. Initial clinical effects usually occurred within two hours, with full recovery typically occurring five days after the bite. Antivenom was used in 55.9 per cent of cases and appeared to significantly reduce duration of oedema from an average of 94 to 47 hours. Adder bites can cause significant morbidity (97 per cent of dogs were symptomatic), but mortality is low (4.6 per cent died). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anatomy of the anal canal is complex but well demonstrated by MRI. Understanding the anatomy is a prerequisite for determining the true site and the extent of pathology, especially for surgical workup. In this article, the MRI anatomy of the anal canal has been displayed using highlighted MRI images and line diagrams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines 99 cases of feline exposure to neem or margosa oil from the reports of the Veterinary Poisons Information Services (VPIS) in London, England. It cites several common clinical signs in the report including lethargy, hypersalivation, and convulsions. The article discusses the correlation between the clinical signs of neem oil toxicity and poisoning by the insecticide permethrin, found in spot-on treatments for dogs.

A letter to the editor is presented which describes the influencing factors to the clinical course and outcome of 169 Vitis intoxication cases in dogs reported to the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) in London.

Toxicology is a vast subject. Animals are exposed to numerous drugs, household products, plants, chemicals, pesticides and venomous animals. In addition to the individual toxicity of the various potential poisons, there is also the question of individual response and, more importantly, of species differences in toxicity. This review serves to address some of the common questions asked when dealing with animals with possible poisoning, providing evidence where available. The role of emetics, activated charcoal and lipid infusion in the management of poisoning in animals, the toxic dose of chocolate, grapes and dried fruit in dogs, the use of antidotes in paracetamol poisoning, timing of antidotal therapy in ethylene glycol toxicosis and whether lilies are toxic to dogs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Preoperative radiotherapy (PRT) reduces the risk of local pelvic recurrence (LR) after rectal cancer surgery but is associated with considerable side-effects. This study aims to identify the LR rate associated with the present MRI based selection criterion for PRT (tumour threatening the fascia propria on MRI) at Auckland City Hospital (ACH), and to assess the likely influence on LR rates of a regimen using a PRT selection criterion based on a 5 mm clearance of the fascia propria. Methodology: All patients with rectal cancer treated at ACH from 1997–2005 who had preoperative MRI scans were identified from the National Cancer Registry. Details of demographics, MRI results, treatment and outcome were collated. Long-term outcomes were obtained from digital records, GPs, patient contact and death-certificates. All MRIs were re-reported using the new criterion of 5 mm clearance for the fascia propria. Results: There were 126 patients eligible patients, 20 were excluded with lack of MRI or follow-up. 106 patients (mean age 66.5 years, 67% male) were followed-up for a minimum 2 years (med 3 years). Using the present MRI based ACH criteria for PRT 29 (27%) patients were irradiated. Using a 5 mm tumour free margin 80 (75%) of patients would have been offered PRT. Overall 7 (6.6%) patients developed LR, 6 of these did not receive PRT, 4 of these fulfilled the new criterion and only 2 of these patients had a resection with curative intent. Conclusion: Selective PRT based on threatened fascia propria involvement on MRI lead to low PRT and LR rates. The use of a 5 mm tumour free lateral margin on MRI would result in three times as many patients receiving PRT and is likely to reduce the local recurrence rate by about 2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indigenous alcohol and other drug (AOD) workers' roles are often exhausting, poorly paid and under-recognised. There has been relatively little examination of work-related stressors on their health and well-being. This national study identified Indigenous AOD workers' experiences and perspectives on well-being, stress and burnout along with strategies to improve worker well-being., Methods: Focus groups were conducted with 121 participants (70 Indigenous, 20 non-Indigenous, 31 unspecified) from metropolitan, rural and remote locations around Australia, selected via a purposive sampling strategy. Audio files and interview notes were analysed to identify key themes., Results: Main themes identified included excessive workloads, extensive demands and expectations, workers' proximity to communities, loss and grief issues, lack of recognition, inadequate rewards, stigma and racism, and Indigenous ways of working. Stressors were compounded by workers' complex personal circumstances, profound levels of loss and grief, and lack of culturally safe working environments., Discussion and Conclusion: Indigenous workers' stress was exacerbated by close links and responsibilities to their communities and a 'dual accountability', being constantly on call, playing multiple roles, complex personal and professional lives, and needing to interact with multiple agencies. Many Indigenous AOD workers had developed mechanisms to deal with work-related pressures and received valued support from their communities. The study identified the importance of workforce strategies to improve Indigenous workers' well-being and reduce stress, including: mutual support networks, training in assertiveness and boundary setting, workloads that take account of Indigenous ways of working, adequate remuneration, supervision and mentorship, and cultural sensitivity training for non-Indigenous workers., (© 2013 Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.)