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Summary: This report describes the likely development and growth of bilateral granulosa cell tumours (GCTs) in a Warmblood pony mare, during the first trimester of pregnancy after artificial insemination. The GCTs were initially suspected to be ovarian haematomas and were managed conservatively. However, they ultimately led to life‐threatening haemoperitoneum (HP) and were later diagnosed as GCTs with histopathology. The case was successfully managed with emergency standing laparoscopic‐assisted bilateral ovariectomy after haemodynamic supportive therapy. The mare made a full recovery and delivered a live filly foal at term. GCTs can be a rare cause of life‐threatening HP and can be successfully managed with haemodynamic support and standing laparoscopic‐assisted removal. Bilateral ovariectomy in a pregnant mare after 70 days of gestation can result in successful delivery of a live foal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassicaceae oilseed crops have proven potential as vegetable oil feedstock for biofuels and food uses. However, meeting a growing demand for vegetable oils for food and industrial uses will require identifying oilseed species that are best suited for various growing environments within a particular region. The objective of this study was to compare growth dynamics, seasonal water use (WU), seed yields, and water use efficiency (WUE) of canola (Brassica napus L.), camelina (Camelina sativa L.), and white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) to determine their suitability under three different environments within the northern Great Plains. Comparisons were made among these species over three growing seasons between 2013 and 2016 at Morris, MN; Mandan, ND; and Sidney, MT, situated along a strong precipitation gradient from east to west. Generally, growing season precipitation was similar at Morris and Mandan, but both were considerably greater than at Sidney. Seasonal WU was similar among these oilseed species at Morris and Mandan but was greatest for camelina at the drier Sidney environment. Canola seed yield was the greatest at Morris and had higher WUE than camelina and white mustard. At Mandan and Sidney, canola and camelina had similar seed yields and WUE, which were generally greater than white mustard. Under abundant moisture and low stress (e.g., Morris), seed yield per millimeter of water used could be maximized by growing canola, while in a drier more stressful environment like Sidney, seed yield per millimeter of water used could be maximized by growing camelina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterine bleeding is a common reason why women discontinue menopausal hormone therapy (HT). This systematic review compared bleeding profiles reported in studies for continuous-combined HT approved in North America and Europe for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women with a uterus. Non-head-to-head studies showed that uterine bleeding varies by formulation and administration route, with oral having a better bleeding profile than transdermal formulations. Cumulative amenorrhea over a year ranged from 18 to 61% with oral HT and from 9 to 27% with transdermal HT, as reported for continuous-combined HT containing 17β-estradiol (E2)/progesterone (P4) (56%), E2/norethisterone acetate (NETA) (49%), E2/drospirenone (45%), conjugated equine estrogens/medroxyprogesterone acetate (18–54%), ethinyl estradiol/NETA (31–61%), E2/levonorgestrel patch (16%), and E2/NETA patch (9–27%). Amenorrhea rates and the mean number of bleeding/spotting days improved over time. The oral E2/P4 combination was amongst those with lower bleeding rates and may be an appropriate alternative for millions of women seeking bioidentical HT and/or those who have bleeding concerns with other HT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This case report discusses a successful partial splenectomy for treatment of a splenic abscess in a horse. A 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred colt was hospitalised 5 weeks after an episode of severe colic that was followed by gradual weight loss and anorexia, pyrexia for 5 days and dehydration on the day of referral. A large splenic abscess was identified ultrasonographically. Following initial medical treatment, an exploratory laparotomy was performed. Multiple adhesions were released and a partial splenectomy conducted to remove the abscess. Migrant metallic wires penetrating from the small intestine into the splenic parenchyma were found to be the cause for the adhesions and the abscess. This paper summarises the potential advantages of utilising a partial vs. a total splenectomy and highlights the potential complications of these surgical procedure in equines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Critical appraisal skills enabling assessment of the validity and importance of evidence are essential for clinicians to make informed decisions regarding what new information should be incorporated into their clinical practice. This review highlights key points to consider in a critical review concentrating on common study designs used in the equine literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been 21 years since the adoption of clinical audit by our profession was first suggested in the literature (Mosedale [17]) and 19 years since an editorial in this journal introduced two thought-provoking articles on the subject (Rossdale and Mair [25]). Colic surgery has been identified as a discipline well-suited to clinical audit (Mair and White [13]). Despite significant improvements in treatment and outcomes for horses undergoing colic surgery, mortality, and complication rates remain relatively high (Mair [12]; Salem I et al i . 14 Mair, T.S. and White, N.A. (2008) The creation of an international audit and database of equine colic surgery: Survey of attitudes of surgeons. [Extracted from the article]

We present a new mechanistic model, Stochastic Lagrangian Aggregate Model of Sinking particles (SLAMS) for the biological pump in the ocean, which tracks the evolution of individual particles as they aggregate, disaggregate, sink, and are altered by chemical and biological processes. SLAMS considers the impacts of ballasting by mineral phases, binding of aggregates by transparent exopolymer particles (TEP), zooplankton grazing, and the fractal geometry (porosity) of the aggregates. Parameterizations for age-dependent organic carbon (orgC) degradation kinetics, and disaggregation driven by zooplankton grazing and TEP degradation, are motivated by observed particle fluxes and size spectra throughout the water column. The model is able to explain observed variations in orgC export efficiency and rain ratio from the euphotic zone and to the sea floor as driven by sea surface temperature and the primary production rate and seasonality of primary production. The model provides a new mechanistic framework with which to predict future changes on the flux attenuation of orgC in response to climate change forcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a new mechanistic model, Stochastic Lagrangian Aggregate Model of Sinking particles (SLAMS) for the biological pump in the ocean, which tracks the evolution of individual particles as they aggregate, disaggregate, sink, and are altered by chemical and biological processes. SLAMS considers the impacts of ballasting by mineral phases, binding of aggregates by transparent exopolymer particles (TEP), zooplankton grazing, and the fractal geometry (porosity) of the aggregates. Parameterizations for age-dependent organic carbon (orgC) degradation kinetics, and disaggregation driven by zooplankton grazing and TEP degradation, are motivated by observed particle fluxes and size spectra throughout the water column. The model is able to explain observed variations in orgC export efficiency and rain ratio from the euphotic zone and to the sea floor as driven by sea surface temperature and the primary production rate and sea-sonality of primary production. The model provides a new mechanistic framework with which to predict future changes on the flux attenuation of orgC in response to climate change forcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a new mechanistic model, Stochastic Lagrangian Aggregate Model of Sinking particles (SLAMS) for the biological pump in the ocean, which tracks the evolution of individual particles as they aggregate, disaggregate, sink, and are altered by chemical and biological processes. SLAMS considers the impacts of ballasting by mineral phases, binding of aggregates by transparent exopolymer particles (TEP), zooplankton grazing, and the fractal geometry (porosity) of the aggregates. Parameterizations for age-dependent organic carbon (orgC) degradation kinetics, and disaggregation driven by zooplankton grazing and TEP degradation, are motivated by observed particle fluxes and size spectra throughout the water column. The model is able to explain observed variations in orgC export efficiency and rain ratio from the euphotic zone and to the sea floor as driven by sea surface temperature and the primary production rate and seasonality of primary production. The model provides a new mechanistic framework with which to predict future changes on the flux attenuation of orgC in response to climate change forcing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the evolution of physical and technical soccer performance across a 7-season period in the English Premier League. Match performance observations (n = 14 700) were analysed for emergent trends. Total distance covered during a match was ~2 % lower in 2006–07 compared to 2012–13. Across 7 seasons, high-intensity running distance and actions increased by ~30 % (890 ± 299 vs. 1 151 ± 337 m, p < 0.001; ES: 0.82) and ~50 % (118 ± 36 vs. 176 ± 46, p < 0.001; ES: 1.41), respectively. Sprint distance and number of sprints increased by ~35 % (232 ± 114 vs. 350 ± 139 m, p < 0.001; ES: 0.93) and ~85 % (31 ± 14 vs. 57 ± 20, p < 0.001; ES: 1.46), respectively. Mean sprint distance was shorter in 2012–13 compared to 2006–07 (5.9 ± 0.8 vs. 6.9 ± 1.3 m, p < 0.001; ES: 0.91), with the proportion of explosive sprints increasing (34 ± 11 vs. 47 ± 9 %, p < 0.001; ES: 1.31). Players performed more passes (35 ± 17 vs. 25 ± 13, p < 0.001; ES: 0.66) and successful passes (83 ± 10 % vs. 76 ± 13 %, p < 0.001; ES: 0.60) in 2012–13 compared to 2006–07. Whereas the number of short and medium passes increased across time (p < 0.001; ES > 0.6), the number of long passes varied little (p < 0.001; ES: 0.11). This data demonstrates evolution of physical and technical parameters in the English Premier League, and could be used to aid talent identification, training and conditioning preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biomass bales often need to be aggregated (collected into groups and transported) to a field-edge stack or a temporary storage before utilization. Several logistics scenarios for aggregation involving equipment and aggregation strategies were modeled and evaluated. Cumulative Euclidean distance criteria evaluated the various aggregation scenarios. Application of a single-bale loader that aggregated bales individually was considered as the “control” scenario with which others were compared. A computer simulation program developed determined bale coordinates in ideal and random layouts that evaluated aggregation scenarios. Simulation results exhibited a “diamond pattern” of bales on ideal layout and a “random pattern” emerged when ≥10% variation was introduced. Statistical analysis revealed that the effect of field shape, swath width, biomass yield, and randomness on bale layout did not affect aggregation logistics, while area and number of bales handled had significant effects. Number of bales handled in the direct method significantly influenced the efficiency. Self-loading bale picker with minimum distance path (MDP, 80%) and parallel transport of loader and truck with MDP (78%) were ranked the highest, and single-bale central grouping the lowest (29%) among 19 methods studied. The MDP was found significantly more efficient (4%–16%) than the baler path. Simplistic methods, namely a direct triple-bale loader with MDP (64%–66%), or a loader and truck handling six bales running parallel with MDP (75%–82%) were highly efficient. Great savings on cumulative distances that directly influence time, fuel, and cost were realized when the number of bales handled was increased or additional equipment was utilized. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

There are concerns that outbreaks of exotic or novel vector-borne viral diseases will increasingly occur within northern Europe and the UK in the future. African horse sickness (AHS) is a viral disease of equids that is transmitted by Culicoides and is associated with up to 95 percent mortality. AHS has never occurred in the UK; however, it has been suggested that appropriate Culicoides species and climatic conditions are present in northern Europe to support an outbreak. No data are currently available regarding the Culicoides species present on UK equine properties. This study demonstrates the presence of potential AHS virus vector Culicoides species on both urban and rural equine properties within the south-east UK. PCR analysis revealed that engorged members of these species contained equine DNA, proving a direct vector-host interaction. It is therefore possible that an AHS outbreak could occur in the UK if the virus were to be imported and, given the severe welfare and economic consequences of AHS, this would have devastating consequences to the naïve UK equine population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior to 1996, the use of postmenopausal estrogen was not believed to increase the risk of venous thrombosis. Subsequent studies, particularly the prospective, randomized, double-blind, clinical trial of the Women's Health Initiative, have clearly shown an increase in the incidence and risk of venous thrombosis in postmenopausal women using conjugated equine estrogens with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate. The risk of venous thrombosis in postmenopausal women is also increased by obesity and age. Oral hormone therapy has been used principally for management of menopausal symptoms. Transdermal estrogens have not been used as extensively in the United States but have a significant use in Europe. Recent observational studies have indicated no increased risk of venous thrombosis with use of transdermal estrogens. Norpregnane derivatives have been associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis, suggesting that progestins may contribute to the increased risk in postmenopausal women using estrogen plus progestin therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior to 1996, the use of postmenopausal estrogen was not believed to increase the risk of venous thrombosis. Subsequent studies, particularly the prospective, randomized, double-blind, clinical trial of the Women's Health Initiative, have clearly shown an increase in the incidence and risk of venous thrombosis in postmenopausal women using conjugated equine estrogens with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate. The risk of venous thrombosis in postmenopausal women is also increased by obesity and age. Oral hormone therapy has been used principally for management of menopausal symptoms. Transdermal estrogens have not been used as extensively in the United States but have a significant use in Europe. Recent observational studies have indicated no increased risk of venous thrombosis with use of transdermal estrogens. Norpregnane derivatives have been associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis, suggesting that progestins may contribute to the increased risk in postmenopausal women using estrogen plus progestin therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior to 1996, the use of postmenopausal estrogen was not believed to increase the risk of venous thrombosis. Subsequent studies, particularly the prospective, randomized, double-blind, clinical trial of the Women's Health Initiative, have clearly shown an increase in the incidence and risk of venous thrombosis in postmenopausal women using conjugated equine estrogens with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate. The risk of venous thrombosis in postmenopausal women is also increased by obesity and age. Oral hormone therapy has been used principally for management of menopausal symptoms. Transdermal estrogens have not been used as extensively in the United States but have a significant use in Europe. Recent observational studies have indicated no increased risk of venous thrombosis with use of transdermal estrogens. Norpregnane derivatives have been associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis, suggesting that progestins may contribute to the increased risk in postmenopausal women using estrogen plus progestin therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective An overview of the current knowledge on the etiology and treatment of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women. Materials and methods Acknowledged experts in the fi eld contributed a brief assessment of their areas of interest which were combined and edited into the fi nal manuscript. Results Women around the world experience vasomotor symptoms as they enter and complete the menopause transition. Vasomotor symptoms, specifi cally hot fl ushes, are caused by a narrowing of the thermoneutral zone in the brain. This effect, although related to estrogen withdrawal, is most likely related to changes in central nervous system neurotransmitters. Peripheral vascular reactivity is also altered in symptomatic women. Estrogen replacement therapy is the most effective treatment for hot fl ushes. Of the other interventions investigated, selective serotonin and selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and gabapentin show effi cacy greater than placebo. Objective monitoring of hot fl ushes indicates a robust improvement with hormone replacement therapy but little to no change with placebo. These data suggest that the subjective assessment of responses to therapy for vasomotor symptom results in inaccurate data. Hot fl ushes have recently been associated with increased cardiovascular risks and a lower incidence of breast cancer, but these data require confi rmation. Conclusions Vasomotor symptoms are experienced by women of all ethnic groups. They are caused by changes in the central nervous system associated with estrogen withdrawal and are best treated with estrogen replacement therapy. Objective monitoring of hot fl ushes indicates that placebo has little to no effect on their improvement. Subjective assessments of hot fl ushes in clinical trials may be inaccurate based on objective measurement of the frequency of hot fl ushes. Based on preliminary reports, women experiencing hot fl ushes have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a reduced incidence of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) protein has both guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) and kinase activities, and mutation in either enzymatic domain can cause late-onset Parkinson disease. Nucleotide binding in the GTPase domain may be required for kinase activity, and residues in the GTPase domain are potential sites for autophosphorylation, suggesting a complex mechanism of intrinsic regulation. To further define the effects of LRRK2 autophosphorylation, we applied a technique optimal for detection of protein phosphorylation, electron transfer dissociation, and identified autophosphorylation events exclusively nearby the nucleotide binding pocket in the GTPase domain. Parkinson-disease-linked mutations alter kinase activity but did not alter autophosphorylation site specificity or sites of phosphorylation in a robust in vitro substrate myelin basic protein. Amino acid substitutions in the GTPase domain have large effects on kinase activity, as insertion of the GTPase-associated R1441C pathogenic mutation together with the G2019S kinase domain mutation resulted in a multiplicative increase (∼7-fold) in activity. Removal of a conserved autophosphorylation site (T1503) by mutation to an alanine residue resulted in greatly decreased GTP-binding and kinase activities. While autophosphorylation likely serves to potentiate kinase activity, we find that oligomerization and loss of the active dimer species occur in an ATP- and autophosphorylation-independent manner. LRRK2 autophosphorylation sites are overall robustly protected from dephosphorylation in vitro, suggesting tight control over activity in vivo. We developed highly specific antibodies targeting pT1503 but failed to detect endogenous autophosphorylation in protein derived from transgenic mice and cell lines. LRRK2 activity in vivo is unlikely to be constitutive but rather refined to specific responses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective To examine the effect of intravaginal dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on pain at sexual activity (dyspareunia) identified as the most bothersome symptom of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women at both screening and day 1. Methods This prospective, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled phase III clinical trial studied the effect of prasterone (DHEA) applied locally in the vagina on the severity of dyspareunia in 114 postmenopausal women who had identified dyspareunia as their most bothersome symptom of vaginal atrophy, while meeting the criteria for superficial cells ≤≤ 5%% and pH > 5.0 at both screening and day 1. Results At the standard duration of 12 weeks of treatment, increasing doses of 0.25%%, 0.5%% and 1.0%% DHEA decreased the percentage of parabasal cells by 48.6 ±± 6.78%%, 42.4 ±± 7.36%% and 54.9 ±± 6.60%% ( p < 0.0001 vs. placebo for all) with no change with placebo ( p == 0.769). The effects on superficial cells and pH were also highly significant compared to placebo at all DHEA doses. The severity score of pain at sexual activity decreased by 0.5, 1.4, 1.6 and 1.4 units in the placebo and 0.25%%, 0.5%% and 1.0%% DHEA groups, respectively, with the p value of differences from placebo ranging from 0.0017 to < 0.0001. Conclusions Intravaginal DHEA, through local estrogen and androgen formation, causes a rapid and highly efficient effect on pain at sexual activity without systemic exposure of the other tissues, thus avoiding the recently reported systemic effects of estrogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rate of ribosome synthesis is proportional to the rate of cell proliferation; thus, transcription of rRNA by RNA polymerase I (Pol I) is an important target for the regulation of this process. Most previous investigations into mechanisms that regulate the rate of ribosome synthesis have focused on the initiation step of transcription by Pol I; however, recent studies in yeast and mammals have identified factors that influence transcription elongation by Pol l. The RNA polymerase-associated factor 1 complex (Paf1C) is a transcription elongation factor with known roles in Pol II transcription. We previously identified a role for Paf1C in transcription elongation by Pol l. In this study, genetic interactions between genes for Paf1C and Poll subunits confirm this conclusion. In vitro studies demonstrate that purified Paf1C directly increases the rate of transcription elongation by Pol I. Finally, we show that Paf1C function is required for efficient control of Pol I transcription in response to target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling or amino acid limitation. These studies demonstrate that Paf1C plays an important direct role in cellular control of rRNA expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite substantial evidence that land use and management can enhance flood runoff at a local scale, evidence of increased flood risk based on peak discharges is lacking in catchments greater than 10 km². This analysis is instead based on assessing changes in short-term rates of change in discharge. The influence of land use is demonstrated first on the small Coalburn catchment where changes in rates of rise are closely related to drainage and afforestation. For the larger Axe catchment (288km²), changes in rates of rise are investigated by comparing annual maximum and peaks over a threshold flows for different periods, by comparing rates of rise associated with given daily rainfall and by adapting the method of flow variability analysis for use of rates of change rather than flow itself. All these methods demonstrate significant changes in river flow dynamics which seem to be in parallel with land use changes even when the influence of climate variability from year to year has been taken into account. Rates of change in discharge appear to respond to land use changes and thus provide a potential basis for application to land use management policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premature menopause and bilateral oophorectomy in young women are associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction and overall mortality, Observational studies suggest an interval of 5-10 years between loss of ovarian function and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This finding is consonant with a published autopsy study of women who had undergone bilateral oophorectomy. The progression of atherosclerosis is retarded with the use of estrogen replacement therapy in non-human primates and women. Hormone therapy reduced the incidence of cardiovascular disease in women following bilateral oophorectomy. These findings support the use of hormone therapy in young women who have lost ovarian function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premature menopause and bilateral oophorectomy in young women are associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction and overall mortality. Observational studies suggest an interval of 5-10 years between loss of ovarian function and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This finding is consonant with a published autopsy study of women who had undergone bilateral oophorectomy. The progression of atherosclerosis is retarded with the use of estrogen replacement therapy in non-human primates and women. Hormone therapy reduced the incidence of cardiovascular disease in women following bilateral oophorectomy. These findings support the use of hormone therapy in young women who have lost ovarian function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the effect of two ultra-low-dose hormone treatments containing estradiol (E2) 0.5 mg and norethisterone acetate (NETA) 0.1 or 0.25 mg on the endometrium and bleeding. Methods A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 6 months. Local Ethics Committee approval and informed consent were obtained prior to initiation and enrolment. Out of 577 postmenopausal women randomized, 575 took E2/NETA 0.1 (n = 194), or E2/NETA 0.25 (n = 181) or placebo (n = 200). Endometrial bleeding was monitored by daily diary cards and endometrial thickness by transvaginal ultrasound at baseline and on completion. An endometrial biopsy was obtained when indicated clinically. Results In months 1-6, the amenorrhea rates with E2/NETA 0.1 were 89%, 89%, 86%, 85%, 89% and 89%, respectively and the no-bleeding rates were correspondingly high: 95%, 94%, 93%, 90%, 95% and 95%. The amenorrhea and spotting-only rates were similar with both ultra-low-dose combinations. The withdrawal rates due to bleeding were very low and the same in all three treatment arms (n = 1; 1%). There was a slight increase in the mean endometrial thickness in all three groups, which remained less than 5 mm. Conclusions The ultra-low-dose combination of E2/NETA 0.1 or E2/NETA 0.25 resulted in a high incidence of amenorrhea and no bleeding in postmenopausal women, and a corresponding high level of compliance. Overall, there was no significant change in mean endometrial thickness during 6 months of active treatment or placebo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) ligands are medications used to treat hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis. Increasing evidence suggests that these agents are immunosuppressive. In the following studies we demonstrate that WY14,643, a PPARα ligand, attenuates expression of anti-glomerular basement membrane disease (AGBMD). C57BL/6 mice were fed 0·05% WY14,643 or control food and immunized with the non-collagenous domain of the α3 chain of Type IV collagen [α3(IV) NC1] in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). WY14,643 reduced proteinuria and greatly improved glomerular and tubulo-interstitial lesions. However, the PPARα ligand did not alter the extent of IgG-binding to the GBM. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that the prominent tubulo-interstitial infiltrates in the control-fed mice consisted predominately of F4/80+ macrophages and WY14,643-feeding decreased significantly the number of renal macrophages. The synthetic PPARα ligand also reduced significantly expression of the chemokine, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1/CCL2. Sera from mice immunized with AGBMD were also evaluated for antigen-specific IgGs. There was a significant increase in the IgG1 : IgG2c ratio and a decline in the intrarenal and splenocyte interferon (IFN)-γ mRNA expression in the WY14,643-fed mice, suggesting that the PPARα ligand could skew the immune response to a less inflammatory T helper 2-type of response. These studies suggest that PPARα ligands may be a novel treatment for inflammatory renal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of estrogen with or without a progestogen as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms is well-established. Recent large-scale randomized studies with combined estrogen/progestogen therapy (EPT) have raised a number of safety issues, specifically the potential risk for coronary heart disease. Subsequent analyses and other studies have indicated that HRT may be cardioprotective in younger postmenopausal women. A new continuous EPT combines natural 17β-estradiol (E2) 1 mg with the novel progestin, drospirenone (DRSP) either 0.5 or 2 mg. DRSP has a physiological profile closer to that of natural progesterone than any other synthetic progestin. This paper reviews recent clinical trial data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of combined DRSP/E2 therapy as EPT in postmenopausal women. DRSP/E2 provides symptomatic relief of vasomotor symptoms and improvement in genitourinary atrophy. DRSP/E2 protects against endometrial hyperplasia and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Combined DRSP/E2 therapy has a favorable impact on cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and decreases blood pressure in women with elevated blood pressure. The favorable efficacy and safety profile of DRSP/E2, and potential for long-term health benefits, represents a new option for the effective management of menopause and its clinical sequelae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma scintigraphy is a well established imaging modality, which in equine practice is predominantly used in the investigation of lameness and suspected musculoskeletal problems. Whilst there is a growing literature on the indications for scintigraphy in the horse, there has been little emphasis so far on identifying the validity of scintigraphy as a diagnostic test. In particular, to what extent can the results of a scintigraphic examination be trusted? In this opinionated review the current indications for skeletal scintigraphy in the horse are considered and its validity as a diagnostic test reviewed. It is concluded that in the majority of published studies, inherent biases in study design make it difficult to assess accurately the validity of skeletal scintigraphy in the horse. Further well designed, prospective studies are required to assess the validity of skeletal scintigraphy as a diagnostic tool, particularly in horses with subtle alterations in radiopharmaceutical uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma scintigraphy is an established imaging modality in the horse and is principally utilised to investigate skeletal disease using bone-seeking radiopharmaceuticals. However, depending on the radiopharmaceutical and imaging sequence, scintigraphy can be used to investigate disease in virtually any organ system. In this article the indications and validity of scintigraphy as a clinical diagnostic tool to investigate non-skeletal disease in the horse are reviewed. These indications include: investigation of dental disease, identification of inflammatory foci, vascular lesions, muscle and tendon pathology, assessment of physiological function of the lungs, gastrointestinal tract and other organs. Some of the techniques described for use in the horse have not been validated fully and as a result non-skeletal scintigraphy requires further investigation and validation using well-designed prospective studies. Such information can be used by clinicians to make informed decisions regarding the clinical and economic issues associated with a specific scintigraphic technique and may help when interpreting the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature data for seven instrumental records in the Karakoram and Hindu Kush Mountains of the Upper Indus Basin (UIB) have been analyzed for seasonal and annual trends over the period 1961–2000 and compared with neighboring mountain regions and the Indian subcontinent. Strong contrasts are found between the behavior of winter and summer temperatures and between maximum and minimum temperatures. Winter mean and maximum temperature show significant increases while mean and minimum summer temperatures show consistent decline. Increase in diurnal temperature range (DTR) is consistently observed in all seasons and the annual dataset, a pattern shared by much of the Indian subcontinent but in direct contrast to both GCM projections and the narrowing of DTR seen worldwide. This divergence commenced around the middle of the twentieth century and is thought to result from changes in large-scale circulation patterns and feedback processes associated with the Indian monsoon. The impact of observed seasonal temperature trend on runoff is explored using derived regression relationships. Decreases of ∼20% in summer runoff in the rivers Hunza and Shyok are estimated to have resulted from the observed 1°C fall in mean summer temperature since 1961, with even greater reductions in spring months. The observed downward trend in summer temperature and runoff is consistent with the observed thickening and expansion of Karakoram glaciers, in contrast to widespread decay and retreat in the eastern Himalayas. This suggests that the western Himalayas are showing a different response to global warming than other parts of the globe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colic remains a significant problem in the horse in terms of welfare and economics; in some equine populations it is the single most common cause of death. Many causes of colic are cited in the equestrian and veterinary literature but little scientific evidence exists to substantiate these theories. Recent epidemiological investigations have confirmed that colic is complex and multi-factorial in nature. Studies have identified a number of factors that are associated with increased risk of colic including parasite burden, certain feed types, recent change in feeding practices, stabling, lack of access to pasture and water, increasing exercise and transport. These findings are reviewed together with examples of management practices that may be altered to reduce the incidence of specific types of colic. This is an opinionated, not a systematic, review focusing on those areas that are considered most relevant to the practitioner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several reference materials and associated reference values have been recommended for the purposes of calibration and/or validation of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). However, issues of available sample purity, reference-property value accuracy, and potential undesired reactions between reference materials and the materials used for sample pans have not been considered sufficiently in some of the recommendations of property values for the materials. These limitations attenuate greatly the usefulness of many of these reference material recommendations. Indeed, the state of uncertainty regarding true reference property values can be shown to be a limiting factor in the uncertainty of measurements made with DSC. NIST has certified the temperatures and enthalpies of fusion of two new Standard Reference Materials, SRMs 2234 and 2235, in order to help alleviate some of the difficulty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NifU is a homodimeric modular protein comprising N- and C-terminal domains and a central domain with a redox-active [2Fe-2S]2+,+ cluster. It plays a crucial role as a scaffold protein for the assembly of the Fe-S clusters required for the maturation of nif-specific Fe-S proteins. In this work, the time course and products of in vitro NifS-mediated iron-sulfur cluster assembly on full-length NifU and truncated forms involving only the N-terminal domain or the central and C-terminal domains have been investigated using UV-vis absorption and Mössbauer spectroscopies, coupled with analytical studies. The results demonstrate sequential assembly of labile [2Fe-2S]2+ and [4Fe-4S]2+ clusters in the U-type N-terminal scaffolding domain and the assembly of [4Fe-4S]2+ clusters in the Nfu-type C-terminal scaffolding domain. Both scaffolding domains of NifU are shown to be competent for in vitro maturation of nitrogenase component proteins, as evidenced by rapid transfer of [4Fe-4S]2+ clusters preassembled on either the N- or C-terminal domains to the apo nitrogenase Fe protein. Mutagenesis studies indicate that a conserved aspartate (Asp37) plays a critical role in mediating cluster transfer. The assembly and transfer of clusters on NifU are compared with results reported for U- and Nfu-type scaffold proteins, and the need for two functional Fe-S cluster scaffolding domains on NifU is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The role of the three conserved cysteine residues on Azotobacter vinelandii IscU in accepting sulfane sulfur and forming a covalent complex with IscS has been evaluated using electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry studies of variants involving individual cysteine-to-alanine substitutions. The results reveal that IscS can transfer sulfur to each of the three alanine-substituted forms of IscU to yield persulfide or polysulfide species, and formation of a heterodisulfide covalent complex between IscS and Cys37 on IscU. It is concluded that S transfer from IscS to IscU does not involve a specific cysteine on IscU or the formation of an IscS–IscU heterodisulfide complex. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A 21-year-old Arab gelding with clinical signs of acute peritonitis had a perforating ulcer on the mesenteric border of the jejunum which resulted in localised contamination of the abdomen with ingesta. The affected segment of jejunum was resected and the abdomen was lavaged extensively. Postoperatively, the gelding was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and intravenous fluids, but after four days it became acutely non-weight bearing on its right hindlimb, and a tendonitis of the lateral digital flexor tendon within the tarsal sheath was identified ultrasonographically. The septic tendonitis was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics but progressed proximodistally within the tendon until it involved both the tarsal sheath and the associated tarsocrural joint, necessitating the euthanasia of the gelding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NifU protein is a homodimer that is proposed to provide a molecular scaffold for the assembly of [Fe-S] clusters uniquely destined for the maturation of the nitrogenase catalytic components. There are three domains contained within NifU, with the N-terminal domain exhibiting a high degree of primary sequence similarity to a related family of [Fe-S] cluster biosynthetic scaffolds designated IseU. The C-terminal domain of NifU exhibits sequence similarity to a second family of proposed [Fe-S] cluster biosynthetic scaffolds designated Nfu. Genetic experiments described here involving amino acid substitutions within the N-terminal and C-terminal domains of NifU indicate that both domains can separately participate in nitrogenase-specific [Fe-S] cluster formation, although the N-terminal domain appears to have the dominant function. These in vivo experiments were supported by in vitro [Fe-S] cluster assembly and transfer experiments involving the activation of an apo-form of the nitrogenase Fe protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The ability of an intact protein to reach the circulatory system may be a prerequisite to allergenicity and many allergens, particularly those from plant foods, have been found to be consistently more resistant to digestion by pepsin than other proteins. Objective This study assessed the pepsinolytic stability of native 2S albumins from Brazil nut and sunflower seed and their recombinant versions produced in Pichia pastoris. The physicochemical stability of native and recombinant Brazil nut 2S albumins and recombinant sunflower seed 2S albumin was also assessed. The immunoreactivity of native Brazil nut 2S albumin and recombinant 2S albumins was compared using serum from patients allergic to Brazil nuts and animals immunized with native 2S albumins. Methods Digestibility was measured in simulated gastric fluid followed by SDS-PAGE. Circular dichroism spectra were used to analyse unfolding, as proteins were denatured by temperature, pH and guanidinium chloride. Immunoreactivity was assessed by immunoblot, RAST and ELISA. Results Brazil nut 2S albumin was significantly more resistant to proteolytic digestion than other Brazil nut proteins. It was also resistant to thermally and chemically induced denaturation. Equally high resistance to proteolytic digestion was observed with sunflower seed 2S albumin. The recombinant albumins mirrored their native counterparts in stability and immunoreactivity. Conclusion The important food allergen Brazil nut 2S albumin is as stable to digestion as is sunflower seed 2S albumin, whose allergenicity has yet to be determined. The 2S albumins and their recombinant counterparts could not be easily denatured by physicochemical treatments. The results suggest that 2S albumin is the only Brazil nut protein to reach the gut immune system intact. The production of properly folded recombinant proteins will facilitate mechanistic studies as well as diagnostic testing and antigen-based therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resin extraction of soil permits evaluation of ratios of readily extracted elements and correlation of concentrations obtained with crop yield. This information provides guidance on potential genotype selection and fertility management. Two hybrids of maize (Zea mays L.), designated 2292 and 3895, were grown annually in rotational succession on a 3.2-ha site with soybean (Glycine max L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Soil samples (0–15 cm) were extracted with ion-exchange resins and extracts were analysed with inductively coupled plasma. Data were regressed against crop yield using stepwise multiple correlation methods. Each hybrid was sensitive to unique combinations of extracted chemistries. Both hybrids of maize were sensitive to the resin-extractable V : (V + P) molar ratio and potential losses of ≥ 20 % were indicated as the ratio approached 0.2. A positive response to the Mg : (Mg + Ca) resin-extractable ratio was noted for maize hybrid 2292 in each of three successive years. Changes of yield potentials associated with the Mg : (Mg + Ca) ratio for hybrid 2292 ranged from none to ≥ 20 % as the ratio ranged from 0.2 to about 0.8. The results indicate that, in the presence of large extractable concentrations of competing or inhibitory ions, different approaches to nutrient management in the form of fertilizer nutrient analysis, application, and genotype selection are needed to overcome effects of competing ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which described the backscatter response of ERS-1 synthetic aperture radar from a dry salt lake or playa in Tunisia Field. Experimental setting; Backscattering modeling from a playa surface; Conclusions.

Study Design. Retrospective analysis of data from the cervical module of a National Spine Registry, the Quality Outcomes Database. Objective. To examine the association of race and ethnicity with patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at one year after cervical spine surgery. Summary of Background Data. Evidence suggests that Black individuals are 39% to 44% more likely to have postoperative complications and a prolonged length of stay after cervical spine surgery compared with Whites. The long-term recovery assessed with PROMs after cervical spine surgery among Black, Hispanic, and other non-Hispanic groups (i.e. Asian) remains unclear. Materials and Methods. PROMs were used to assess disability (neck disability index) and neck/arm pain preoperatively and oneyear postoperative. Primary outcomes were disability and pain, and not being satisfied from preoperative to 12 months after surgery. Multivariable logistic and proportional odds regression analyses were used to determine the association of racial/ethnic groups [Hispanic, non-Hispanic White (NHW), non-Hispanic Black (NHB), and non-Hispanic Asian (NHA)] with outcomes after covariate adjustment and to compute the odds of each racial/ethnic group achieving a minimal clinically important difference one-year postoperatively. Results. On average, the sample of 14,429 participants had significant reductions in pain and disability, and 87% were satisfied at one-year follow-up. Hispanic and NHB patients had higher odds of not being satisfied (40% and 80%) and having worse pain outcomes (30%--70%) compared with NHW. NHB had 50% higher odds of worse disability scores compared with NHW. NHA reported similar disability and neck pain outcomes compared with NHW. Conclusions. Hispanic and NHB patients had worse patient-reported outcomes one year after cervical spine surgery compared with NHW individuals, even after adjusting for potential confounders, yet there was no difference in disability and neck pain outcomes reported for NHA patients. This study highlights the need to address inherent racial/ethnic disparities in recovery trajectories following cervical spine surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and analogue, 1,25-dihydroxy-16ene-vitamin D3, on T helper subsets type 1 (Th1) or type 2 (Th2) that have distinctive functional characteristics in humans. Th1 and Th2 secretions; Sterol; Spontaneous autoimmunity.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was shown to be a sensitive method for the detection of Spiroplasma citri in plants and insect hosts. S. citri was detected in Vinca rosea less than 1 week after infection by grafting, and reached a peak titre of up to 109 spiroplasmas per gram of tissue in infected shoots and root tips. Multiplication of S. citri in the leafhopper Euscelidius variegatus was also monitored by ELISA. S. citri could be detected in a single insect, showing that this technique is suitable for screening insect populations to the field for potential vectors of spiroplasma diseases. A method is described for raising a pathogen-specific antiserum from r. rosea infected with S. citri which reacted with cultured S. citri and also with S. citri in plant tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the relationship between deep-sea-sediment chemistry and atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO(2)) concentration. Global ocean circulation-carbon cycle model and the calcite diagenetic model; Balance between the supply rate of calcium carbonate to the ocean and the alteration of carbonate by burial in weathering; Consequences of the degradation of carbon in sediments.

In this article, the author discusses the clinical examination for chronic persistent colic. The author states that chronic intussusceptions should be considered as a differential diagnosis in the examination of chronic colic case. He says that serial evaluation of peritoneal samples can provide information to diagnose the said disease. He notes that chronic persistent colic was caused by colocolic intussusceptions which is difficult to diagnose without laparotomy recourse.

A horse which had had a caecal impaction for 10 days was treated by means of an ileocaecostomy but failed to respond satisfactorily. Before a second laparotomy was performed it was observed to have dislodged the extension set from a jugular catheter and air was heard being sucked into the vein. It became very agitated but was anaesthetised again and the impaction was removed through an incision in the apex of the caecum. After recovering from the anaesthesia it developed severe signs of pruritus which subsided only after 12 hours. These signs were considered most likely to have resulted from a venous air embolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: An 18‐month‐old Welsh Cob was referred to a university teaching hospital for investigation of abnormal respiratory noise at rest. Video‐endoscopy revealed persistent displacement of the soft palate with bilateral 2–3 cm diameter raised areas on either side of the midline. Neither trans‐nasal nor oral approaches allowed sufficient visualisation of the caudal soft palate for diagnosis or treatment. Latero‐lateral radiographs showed a blunted, thickened caudal edge of the soft palate consistent with a palatal cyst. Two palatal cysts were thermally ablated with a transendoscopic diode laser via temporary tracheotomy. The horse recovered uneventfully and resolution of the displacement was evident on follow‐up endoscopy 11 months later. This report documents a novel surgical approach to the caudal aspect of the soft palate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate improvement of dyspareunia and associated vaginal dryness with a 17β-estradiol softgel vaginal insert (TX-004HR; TherapeuticsMD, Boca Raton, FL, USA) in women with postmenopausal vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA). Methods: Postmenopausal women with VVA and moderate to severe dyspareunia received TX-004HR (4, 10, or 25 μg) or placebo in the 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 REJOICE trial. Post hoc analyses examined improvement levels in dyspareunia and concurrent vaginal dryness with TX-004HR and assessed the effects of patient characteristics on vaginal dryness treatment. Results: Significantly more women treated with TX-004HR (all doses) than placebo had complete resolution or substantial improvement in dyspareunia or vaginal dryness (concurrent with dyspareunia) by 12 weeks, observed as early as week 2 with most doses. TX-004HR significantly improved both dyspareunia and vaginal dryness at least one level versus placebo by week 12 in women with both symptoms. Subgroup analyses showed TX-004HR improved vaginal dryness associated with dyspareunia regardless of age, body mass index, uterine status, prior pregnancy, and vaginal birth number. Conclusion: TX-004HR provided clinically meaningful improvements in dyspareunia and vaginal dryness associated with dyspareunia in postmenopausal women with VVA. Clinicians may be able to use this information when discussing patients' expectations regarding symptom improvement with the estradiol vaginal insert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

African horse sickness (AHS) is a vectorborne disease spread by Culicoides biting midges. The UK's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs currently suggests using topical deltamethrin for AHS control; however, no data are available regarding its efficacy in the horse. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of topical deltamethrin on blood feeding by Culicoides on horses and to investigate which Culicoides species blood fed on horses. Three pairs of horses were placed in partially enclosed cages that allowed samples representing the Culicoides interacting with individual horses to be sampled. Four data collection sessions were completed before one horse from each pair was topically treated with 10 ml of 1 per cent deltamethrin solution and another four sessions were then carried out. Collected Culicoides were identified and each biting midge examined to see if it had blood fed. The most abundant species collected were C. chiopterus, C. dewulfi, C. obsoletus and C. scoticus (44.3 per cent) and either C. pulicaris or C. punctatus (34.7 per cent). These species were also more likely to have blood fed than other species, supporting their potential role as AHS vectors if the virus were to reach the UK. There was no significant effect of treatment on blood feeding by Culicoides. The results do not support the use of topical deltamethrin to prevent blood feeding by Culicoides on individual horses; however, the study does not investigate the effect that the widespread use of topical deltamethrin might have on vector numbers or disease transmission from viraemic individuals during an outbreak of AHS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]