Mean Girth Research Articles

Functional outcomes after supra-pubic phalloplasty

BACKGROUNDA thorough evaluation of the functional outcomes resulting from supra-pubic phalloplasty (SPP) assessing different aspects of the phalloplasty has not been reported. PURPOSE OF THE STUDYTo report the outcomes on sexuality, urinary function, satisfaction, and regrets following an SPP performed at our centre. SUBJECTS STUDIEDAll consecutive patients who underwent the 3-steps technique of pre-expanded SPP between 2007 and 2018 and who had at least 1 year of follow-up. METHODSQuestionnaires were sent to analyse several domains of penile reconstruction: sexuality, urinary function, perceived sensitivity, and satisfaction. Sexuality was evaluated using the Self Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire. Urinary function was analysed based on the urethral stricture surgery PROM (USS-PROM) questionnaire. MAIN FINDINGSA total of 77 patients were included, 92.2% were transmen, and 33 (42.9%) responded to the questionnaire. Urethral lengthening (UL) was performed in 28 (36.4%) procedures and erectile prosthesis was implanted in 42 patients (54.5%). The mean length of the neophallus was 15.3cm (SD 2.6) and the mean girth was 11.8cm (SD 2.1). The mean total SEAR score (/100) was 73.8 (SD 26.7). The mean six-item LUTS score (/24) was 8.4 (SD 4.6). The standing position was the usual voiding position reported by 11 patients (73.3%). CONCLUSIONPre-expanded SPP is a robust technique that can achieve substantial flap dimensions, leading to high satisfaction with neophallus appearance and the choice of the phalloplasty technique. Overall sexual outcomes are mostly favourable. UL is feasible and effective in terms of voiding in a standing position.

(435) Multi-institutional Safety and Efficacy Outcomes with the Penuma Penile Implant

Abstract Introduction Penuma is a novel soft silicone penile sleeve implant that is FDA cleared for cosmetic augmentation of the penis, including enhancing the girth and length of the flaccid penis, and the correction of cosmetic deformities of the penis, such as retractile penis and mid-shaft indentations. Since its FDA clearance, approximately 5,000 Penuma devices have been implanted. The increasing popularity of the implant is accompanied by concerns over patient safety. Possible risks and complications include infection or erosion requiring removal of the implant, hematoma, seroma, prosthesis displacement, and persistent flaring of the Penuma proximal to the coronal sulcus necessitating revision. Over time, the surgical method to implant Penuma has evolved, most notably with the use of a scrotal lateral incision in lieu of an infrapubic incision. Objective Our objective is to provide recent multi-institutional data on safety and efficacy outcomes in patients undergoing Penuma penile implant surgery across multiple high volume implant surgeons at tertiary care centers. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of men undergoing Penuma implants between November 2020 and March 2022 with three surgeons, each working at a separate large academic hospital. Adverse events including infection and unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes requiring revision as determined by physician follow up and patient questionnaires were recorded. Outcomes include measurements of incidents of peri and post-operative adverse events and penile length and girth pre- and post-operatively (Figure 1). Results 169 male patients underwent Penuma implant surgery. Mean age was 42.3 +/− 9.8 years. Mean BMI was 28.7 +/− 4.1. Our patient population was very healthy (3% tobacco smokers, 2% diabetes, 1% cardiovascular disease). Pre-operative mean flaccid length was 7.6 +/− 1.9 cm. Post-operative mean length was 11.2 +/− 1.9 cm. Patients added an average of 3.8 +/− 1.9 cm to their penile length, a 50% increase (p < 0.001). Pre-operative mean flaccid girth was 9.1 +/− 1.4 cm. Post-operative mean girth was 12.5 +/− 1.2 cm. Patients added an average of 3.4 +/− 1.1 cm to their penile girth, a 37% increase (p < 0.001). Complications rates were: infection 0.6%, seroma 1.2%, and erosion 3.6% (Figure 2). Complication rates were found to be lower than those reported in a previously published, IRB-approved retrospective review of Penuma patient outcomes. Ten patients (5.9%) reported unsatisfactory cosmetic results - all had persistent flaring of the Penuma at the coronal sulcus; all but one opted for revision surgery (Figure 3). Based on patient questionnaires, all revisions had satisfactory cosmetic outcomes. One revision was completed under local anesthesia at the time of scrotoplasty. Conclusions The Penuma implant can be used to safely enhance flaccid penile length and girth in patients with retractile penis or other cosmetic deformities and forms of cosmetic augmentation. Should complications occur, they are mainly cosmetic. Their correction is completed easily and with low risk. Disclosure No

The Efficacy of Injection Penile Girth Enhancement as an Option for Small Penis Syndrome Management.

In recent years aesthetic injection techniques using soft tissue fillers are becoming popular worldwide due to their effectiveness, safety, and low cost. There is no standard approach for the management and follow-up of patients seeking penile enlargement procedures described in the literature and the surgical penile enlargement methods are also controversial. To assess the effect of injection penile girth enlargement on sexual relationship satisfaction, confidence, self-esteem, and to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of this procedure for the management of men with small penis syndrome (SPS). This is a single-center, clinical case series study executed from January 2019 to February 2021, that involved 148 men who were unsatisfied with the shape of their normal-sized penises and requested penis girth correction. A total of 132 patients completed full treatment and follow-up. Mean girth enlargement was 1.7 ± 0.32 cm for the mid-shaft and 1.5 ± 0.32 cm for the glans of the penis. Satisfaction with sexual life improved. Mean scores increased by 17.9 ± 3.04 points for the sexual relationship and by 12.2 ± 3.17 points for the confidence. The self-esteem mean score raised by 8 ± 2.8 and by 4.3 ± 0.97 points for the overall relationship. Penile enlargement with hyaluronic acid (HA) injection positively affects sexual relationship satisfaction, confidence, and self-esteem of men with SPS. But the rate of psychosocial improvement does not correlate with penile size changes. It is a simple, safe, and effective technique that can be used in daily clinical practice.

The feasibility, safety, and efficacy of upper limb garment-integrated blood flow restriction training in healthy adults

BackgroundBlood flow restriction training (BFR) has been demonstrated to increase muscle hypertrophy and strength, but has logistical and cost barriers. Garment-integrated BFR has the potential to reduce these barriers by lowering equipment demands and cost. The primary aim of the study was to explore the feasibility of garment-integrated BFR in the upper limb of healthy adults, with a secondary aim of exploring safety and efficacy.MethodsPhysically active and otherwise healthy participants with no previous experience with BFR were sought. Eligible participants completed a five-week garment-integrated BFR programme that involved completing two sessions per week. Feasibility was determined by a priori defined thresholds for recruitment, adherence to the garment-integrated BFR programme, and data collection. Safety was determined by recording adverse events and by monitoring for total arterial occlusion pressure using a fingertip pulse oximeter. Efficacy was determined by measuring push-ups to volitional failure, arm girth, and number of prescribed repetitions completed. Feasibility and safety outcomes were reported descriptively or as a proportion with associated 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Mean change, 95% CIs, and associated effect sizes were calculated for efficacy outcomes.ResultsTwenty-eight participants were included (15 men, 13 women; mean age 31.6 years [±9.1]) and 27 successfully completed the study. Participants were successfully recruited within three months and 278/280 sessions were successfully completed (adherence=99.3%, 95% CI 97.4%, 99.9%). Minimal adverse events were reported; one incident of localised bruising (0.36%, 95% CI 0.06%, 2.0%) and three incidences of excessive pain during or post-exercise from two separate participants (1.07%, 95% CI 0.03%, 3.1%). 82/2240 pulse oximeter readings were not recorded (3.7%, 95% CI 2.9%, 4.5%). Mean push-ups to volitional failure increased by 40% (mean change=8.0, 95% CI 6, 10, d=1.40). Mean arm girth and number of prescribed repetitions completed were unchanged.ConclusionsGarment-integrated BFR is feasible and has no signal of important harm in the upper limb of healthy adults, and could proceed to a future trial with stop/go criteria for randomisation. Further work is required to investigate the efficacy of garment-integrated BFR and determine its equivalence or superiority compared to existing BFR methods.

Monitoring of Afforestation Activities Using Landsat-8 Temporal Images, Billion Trees Afforestation Project, Pakistan

In context of Bonn Challenge commitment, Pakistan (Khyber Pukhtunkhwa) has implemented forest restoration and afforestation on 0.35 million hectares between 2015–2017. Billion Tree Afforestation Project (BTAP) is an initiative of mass afforestation and forest restoration to meet the Bonn Challenge commitment. The current study is a pilot study to evaluate the success of plantation activities by assessment of regeneration, growth performance and survival rate of plantations raised under BTAP in Malakand Forest Division. Further, four vegetation indices were computed from Landsat-8 image, which include Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI) and Difference Vegetation Index (DVI). A total of 72 sample plots of 0.1 ha were laid out in 11 plantation sites extended over an area of 647 ha in Timargara, Chakdara and Jandool. According to the results, all the selected plantation sites showed good performance in terms of survival rate, mostly above 90%. In terms of species composition, Eucalyptus camaldulensis has the highest share (81%) followed by Robinia pseduacacia with 17% and Pinus roxburghii with 2% share in the plantation. Growth performance was good in all species; Pinus roxburghii attained an average girth of 14.3 cm and height of 3.21 feet, whereas Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Robinia pseudoacacia attained a mean girth of 10.3 and 12.1 cm with the height of 8.6 and 8.2 feet in 27 months, respectively. Further, a good correlation was observed between the volume (m3) and Landsat-8 spectral values. The highest performance (R2=0.63) was recorded by NDVI and SAVI. The temporal changes in spectral values of Landsat-8 images from 2013 to 2018 showed that the plantation was successful at these sites. The study concluded that FLR activities across the Khyber Pukhtunkwa province will rehabilitate and improve the existing forest ecosystems and support local livelihood for climate change mitigation.

Phytoremediation of Spent Oil and Palm Kernel Sludge Contaminated Soil Using Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) L

This study was carried out to investigate the phytotoxicity of spent engine oil and palm kernel sludge on seed germination, seedling early growth and survival of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L) and its phytoremediating potential. 8.0 kg topsoil mixed with 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% (w/v) of spent engine oil and palm kernel sludge, while the control was not mixed with spent oil and sludge (0%). The seeds were sown on these soils and monitored daily. Parameters taken were; plant height, leaf number and stem girth. The result showed that spent engine oil treated plants adversely affected growth compared to palm kernel sludge plants and control which performed better. For plant height, the mean stem girth for control at 2nd week was 0.40±0.05 mm, spent engine oil was 5.96±0.97 palm kernel oil effluent was 14.73±1.16 and at 12th week, control was 1.30±0.05 while for SEO the plant had withered and 124.6±9.02 for POE. Number of leaves at the 12th week was 26.00±2.08 in the control, 8.66±0.66, for spent engine oil at 4%, while for palm oil effluent it was 27.66±0.66, at 4%, concentration respectively. Stem girth at 2 weeks for spent engine oil was 0.19±0.05 at 2%, 0.43±0.03 for palm kernel oil effluent and at the 12th week of planting at 10% concentration was 1.63±0.08 for palm kernel oil effluent, and all plants had withered off for spent engine oil at same concentration at the 12th week. Also, spent engine oil at all concentrations delayed the germination of Helianthus annuus by 2days compared to control. Comparison analysis test showed that growth in untreated plants were significantly higher (p>0.05) than spent oil and palm kernel sludge treated plants. Similar result was observed for leaf number and stem girth which had higher mean value in palm kernel sludge and control compared to spent oil. Sunflower grown in 8% and 10% palm kernel sludge contaminated soil also flowered eight days earlier than control plants, while spent oil treated plant did not. The result shows that sunflower cannot tolerate high (4%, 6%, 8% and 10%) concentrations of spent engine oil in soil compared to palm oil effluent. Therefore, spent engine oil should be properly disposed because of its adverse effect on the growth and yield of sunflower.

Population status of Heritiera fomes Buch.-Ham., a threatened species from Mahanadi Mangrove Wetland, India

Heritiera fomes Buch.-Ham. is assessed as an endangered mangrove species by IUCN, and information on population status is lacking. The present study assesses the status of H. fomes in Mahanadi Mangrove Wetland on the east coast of India. Three forest blocks were selected and sampled for this study. Among these, the mean girth at breast height (GBH) of H. fomes was the highest in Hetamundia (HD) forest block. GBH of H. fomes was inversely proportional to the cumulative disturbance index (R2= 0.7244, p value <0.005). The relative density was maximum for H. fomes (56%) at Bhitarkharnasi (BK), and for Excoecaria agallocha at Hetamundia (HD; 35%) & Kansaridia (KD; 54%), respectively. Excoecaria agallocha is a dominant species possibly impacting natural populations of H. fomes. Climate change and rising sea levels may also negatively affect the existence of this species. Therefore, appropriate strategies should be taken for conservation of this globally threatened mangrove species prior to its extinction.

An Alternative Option for Gender-affirming Revision Vaginoplasty: The Tubularized Urachus-peritoneal Hinge Flap

INTRODUCTION: Peritoneal vaginoplasty has been reported for congenital and primary gender-affirming cases, but few have reported its use to treat postoperative neovaginal shortening after penile-inversion vaginoplasty. Recent adaptations of peritoneal vaginoplasty are modifications of the Davydov procedure, wherein peritoneum of the bladder, rectum, and Pouch of Douglas are incorporated to lengthen the vaginal canal. Here we describe our alternative technique using a single urachus-peritoneal hinge flap and discuss its proposed advantages. METHODS: We performed retrospective review of all trans-women with post-penile-inversion vaginoplasty vaginal canal shortening who underwent revision surgery with our technique. All cases were performed via combined trans-perineal and robotic-laparoscopic approaches. Preoperative and postoperative neovaginal circumference and depth were recorded. With a dilator in the canal, the peritoneum and terminal canal-end were incised and spatulated. The anterior canal-remnant epithelial edge was sutured to the anterior peritoneal edge. A midline, inferiorly based peritoneal flap (min.12-cm width) was elevated craniocaudally from the umbilicus to the mid-posterior bladder. The flap’s free end was flipped posteriorly and sutured to the posterior edge of the open canal remnant, to create a peritoneum-lined pouch. The pouch’s lateral edges were sutured together. We confirmed water-tight closure. Patients resumed dilation on POD 8 and douching on POD 10. RESULTS: Five patients underwent peritoneal vaginoplasty with our technique from 5/2019 to 8/2020. Mean age was 32 years. Preoperative: mean canal girth was >12 cm, and depth was 8.6 (±1.8) cm. Immediate postoperative: mean girth was still >12 cm; depth was 16.8 (±1.2) cm (mean increase: 8.2 cm). At a mean follow-up of 1 year: mean girth was 11–12 cm, and depth was 13.5 (±1.8) cm (mean increase: 4.9 cm). There were no immediate complications. One patient developed anastomotic stenosis at 6 weeks postoperative, managed conservatively with dilation under anesthesia. All five patients endorse satisfactory sexual function; 3 of 5 report vaginal receptive intercourse. CONCLUSIONS: Early results suggest that our peritoneal vaginoplasty technique is a safe and effective option to treat neovaginal shortening. Advantages over existing techniques include: (1) No resting tension on peritoneal sutures, (2) Option for layered closure with omental interposition, and (3) Total exclusion of the rectum and Pouch of Douglas. Due to limited available peritoneum, we reserve this technique for cases where there is adequate residual canal girth and at least 6–7 cm of residual depth.

Effects of Administering Exogenous Bovine Somatotropin During the First Trimester of Pregnancy Altered Uterine Hemodynamics in Suckled Beef Cows

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) administration on uterine hemodynamics and subsequent fetal programming in suckled cows during the first trimester of gestation. Crossbred beef cows (n = 152) were stratified by breed, days postpartum, parity, cyclicity status, and body condition score (BCS) before being assigned to either receive injections of bST every other week (BST; 500-mg/14 d) starting at fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI; d 0) until d 97 or to receive no bST (CTL). Blood samples were collected until d 97 for analysis of plasma concentrations of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Pregnancy was assessed via transrectal ultrasonography on d 41 and 173. A subset of pregnant cows (BST, n = 24; CTL, n = 28) were selected for assessment of uterine arterial blood flow (BF), pulsatility index, and resistance index (RI) of the uterine arteries ipsilateral and contralateral to the conceptus via color Doppler ultrasonography on d 97 and 233 of gestation. No differences (P = 0.99) were detected in body weight (BW) or BCS of dams; however, plasma concentrations of IGF-1 were greater (P < 0.001) in BST-treated cows. Color Doppler ultrasonography parameters differed whereby a treatment × day interaction (P = 0.007) was detected for RI on d 97 (P = 0.048); however, on d 233, RI did not differ (P > 0.10) but ipsilateral BF for BST-treated cows was greater (P = 0.0319) than controls. Mean heart girth diameter, crown-to-rump length, and neonate BW at 7 ± 5 d of calf age did not differ (P > 0.10). Liver tissue samples from each calf were collected for analysis of mRNA expression of target insulin-like growth factor system ligands. There was no difference in gene expression of hepatic IGF-1 between treatments (P = 0.99). A treatment × sex interaction was determined, where BST heifers had increased mRNA expression of IGFR1 compared to BST bulls (P = 0.03). Bi-weekly administration of bST until d 97 of pregnancy increased plasma concentrations of IGF-1, altered uterine hemodynamics in dams, induced sex-specific changes in liver gene expression of the offspring but failed to alter calf morphometries or calf performance until weaning.

V07-02 AN ALTERNATIVE OPTION FOR GENDER-AFFIRMING REVISION VAGINOPLASTY: THE TUBULARIZED URACHUS-PERITONEAL HINGE FLAP

You have accessJournal of UrologySexual Dysfunction & Transgender (V07)1 Sep 2021V07-02 AN ALTERNATIVE OPTION FOR GENDER-AFFIRMING REVISION VAGINOPLASTY: THE TUBULARIZED URACHUS-PERITONEAL HINGE FLAP Nance Yuan, Amit Gupta, and Maurice Garcia Nance YuanNance Yuan More articles by this author , Amit GuptaAmit Gupta More articles by this author , and Maurice GarciaMaurice Garcia More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002034.02AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Peritoneal vaginoplasty has been reported for congenital and primary gender-affirming cases, but few have reported its use to treat post-op neovaginal shortening after penile-inversion vaginoplasty (PIV). Recent adaptations of peritoneal vaginoplasty are modifications of the Davydov procedure, wherein peri-rectal/peri-vesical peritoneum are incorporated to lengthen the vaginal canal. Here we describe our alternative technique using a single urachus-peritoneal hinge flap and discuss proposed advantages. METHODS: We performed retrospective review of all trans-women with post-PIV vaginal canal shortening who underwent revision surgery with our technique. All cases were performed via combined trans-perineal and robotic-laparoscopic approaches. Pre-op and post-op neovaginal circumference and depth were recorded. With a dilator in the canal, the peritoneum and terminal canal-end were incised and spatulated. The anterior canal-remnant epithelial edge was sutured to the anterior peritoneal edge. A midline, inferiorly based peritoneal flap (min. 12-cm width) was elevated craniocaudally from the umbilicus to the mid-posterior bladder. The flap’s free end was flipped posteriorly and sutured to the posterior edge of the open canal remnant, to create a peritoneum-lined pouch. The pouch’s lateral edges were sutured together. We confirmed water-tight closure. Patients resumed dilation on POD 8 and douching on POD 10. RESULTS: Five patients underwent peritoneal vaginoplasty with our technique from 5/2019 to 8/2020. Mean age was 32. Pre-op: mean canal girth was >12 cm, and depth was 8.6 (±1.8) cm. Immediate post-op: mean girth was still >12 cm; depth was 16.8 (±1.2) cm (mean increase: 8.2 cm). At mean follow-up of 1 year: mean girth was 11-12 cm, and depth was 13.5 (±1.8) cm (mean increase: 4.9 cm). There were no immediate complications. One patient developed anastomotic stenosis at 6 weeks post-op, managed conservatively with dilation under anesthesia. All 5 patients endorse satisfactory sexual function; 3/5 report vaginal receptive intercourse. CONCLUSIONS: Early results suggest that our peritoneal vaginoplasty technique is a safe and effective option to treat neovaginal shortening. Advantages over existing techniques include: 1. No intra-op or post-op resting tension on peritoneal sutures, 2. Option for layered closure with omental interposition, and 3. Total exclusion of the rectum. Due to limited available peritoneum, we reserve this technique for cases where there is adequate residual canal girth and at least 6-7 cm of residual depth. Source of Funding: None © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e551-e551 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Nance Yuan More articles by this author Amit Gupta More articles by this author Maurice Garcia More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

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This study investigated the influence of different light intensities on the early growth of Jatropha  curcas seedlings. Forty (40) seedlings were randomly selected from the germinated seedlings in the nursery and arrayed under four different treatments (0, 20, 40 and 60% light intensity). The amount of light being received by each of the seedlings was regulated, using constructed wooden box covered with wire gauze (1 mm in size) and measured with photometer. The results on seedlings germination under different light intensity revealed that, the highest mean height (29.2±1.94 cm) was observed in seedlings covered with 60% wire gauze, while the least mean height (27.0±1.24 cm) was observed in the seedlings placed under control treatment (0% wire gauze). Also the highest mean seedlings girth (2.69 ± 0.15 mm) was observed in seedlings not restricted with light intensity (0% wire gauze), while, the least mean girth (2.27±0.08 mm) was found in seedlings restricted with 60% light intensity. The average number of leaves in the four treatments ranges between 6 and 7. The result on analysis of variance (ANOVA) conducted shows a significant effects (P<0.05) of light intensity on J. curcas seedlings girth and number of leaves, while, the seedlings height shows no significant difference (P>0.05). Conclusively, the finding has shown that, J. curcas seedlings required light for its survival, but at varying intensity, and it was noticed that the thicker the light regulator (wire gauze), the lower the amount of light being absorbed by the seedlings. Key words: Jatropha seedling, light intensity, wire gauze, influence survival.

Comparative Effect of Horse Dung and Pig Dung on The Early Growth of Nauclea diderrichii (De Wild) Seedlings

The research work examined the effect of horse dung and pig dung on the early growth of Nauclea diderrichii seedling. The experiment was carried out at the back of library of Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan. The experiment consisted of five treatments which were replicated nine times in a completely Randomized design (CRD). The following materials were used: Topsoil, Polythenepot, seeds of Nauclea diderrichii, Horse dung and pig dung, sieve, wheel barrow, venier caliper, ruler, field record book and pen. Data on the number of stem girth, height, leave production and leave area were recorded fortnightly starting from a week after transplanting. The data collected were analyzed through Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The result revealed that 15g of horse dung + 2kg of top soil had the highest mean number of height value of 12.49cm followed by 10kg of horse dung +2kg of topsoil,(10.15cm). While topsoil only had the least mean number of height (8.25cm). The result further showed the highest mean stem girth (0.30cm) followed by 0.27cm and produced least mean stem girth of 0.24cm in treatments T12, T1 and T5 respectively. Also, in the leaf production the result revealed that 15g of horse dung +2kg of topsoil had the highest mean number of 16.69cm followed by treatment one 12,56cm and topsoil only produce the least mean leaf production of 9.40cm. The result further showed highest mean leave area (134.50cm2 ) followed by treatment one 124.60cm2 and (T5) produced the least mean leaf area of 108.06cm2. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for plant height, stem girth, leaf production and leaf area also indicated that the treatment applied Nauclea diderrichii seedlings showed no significant effect. Generally 15g of horse dung + 2kg of topsoil produced the best result in terms of plant height, stem girth, leaf production and leave area of Nuclea diderrichii seedlings, hence treatment two (T2) is best suitable for raising Nuclea diderrichii seedlings.
 Keywords: Forest, Horse dung, Pig dung, Nauclea diderrichii

Livestock value chain: Prediction of live weight and cut yield of three indigenous breeds of cattle in Nigeria

Problems associated with prediction of saleable meat yield, price haggling and monetary worth of cattle purchased due to difficulties in accurately relating visual appearance of animals and the weight with their price have always been in existence. This study was carried out to determine the accuracy in the use of heart girth tape as an alternative to the use of weighing bridge and crush, dressing percentage and expected cut yield from three indigenous breeds of cattle in Nigeria using linear body measurement. Thus, a total number of 51 healthy and mature White Fulani (n=17), Sokoto Gudali (n=17) and Red Bororo (n=17) cattle breeds were randomly purchased from Ilesha Baruba cattle market Kwara State, Kotangora cattle market, Niger State and Akinyele cattle market, Ibadan, Oyo state and were subjected to heart girth measurements. The study lasted for 32 weeks. Live weights of animals were determined at the point of purchase using a specialized measuring tape (girth tape) calibrated in kilogram (kg) and centimeter (cm).The live weights were recorded in kilogram which was used in price negotiation at the market. The live weight of the cattle ranged from 164 – 463 kg. The mean girth tape values were White Fulani (286.53 51.06)kg, Sokoto Gudali (293.35+77.51)kg and Red Bororo 261.88+60.65)kg respectively. Post slaughtering data collected were dressing percentage, weight of head(kg),neck(kg), shanks(kg), forearm(kg), thigh(kg),skin(kg),liver(kg),heart(kg), intestine(kg)and kidney(g).The study revealed that heart girth measurement had high correlation coefficient with live weight (r=0.99, p<0.001). This implies that the use of heart girth tape in weight prediction is accurate and reliable. There were significant (p<0.05) differences in the dressing percentage among the breeds (43.55-46.52) %. Significant (p<0.05) differences were observed in the cut yield percentage between Red Bororo (33.16 4.12) and other breeds but none between White Fulani (37.14 4.50)% and Sokoto Gudali (34.53 5.26)%.There were significant (p<0.05) differences in the head (13.52-13.42)kg, Neck (14.70-18.07)kg, left thigh (27.92-29.41)kg, right forearm (22.91-27.24)kg, left forearm (24.84-27.57)kg, liver (3.60 – 3.84)kg, skin (15.03 -15.39), shank (2.20-2.41)kg, tail (5.23-5.92)kg but none for right thigh, kidney and lungs among the breeds. The variations in the yield may be as a result of genetic, management, weight and age of the animals. It can be concluded that heart girth tape may be used where weighing crush is not available because of its accuracy and reliability. The study also revealed that White Fulani has higher meat yield than Sokoto Gudali and Red Bororo and will therefore be more profitable to cattle sellers, abattoir centers, slaughter houses andmeat shops.

Study on the Thicknesses and the Girths of Tendoachilles of Human Cadavers: Study in a Medical College

Study on the Thicknesses and the Girths of Tendoachilles of Human Cadavers.
 Background: Tendoachilles is the chief planter flexor of the ankle joint. It provides elastic energy storage in walking and running. The present study was planned to collect data to find out possible variations of thickness and girth between right and left leg of both male and female.
 Materials and methods: A cross sectional analytical type of study was conducted in the department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from July 2013 to June 2014. The data was collected from both right and left tendoachilles of 60 human cadaver taken from Anatomy Department of different Government and Nongovernment Medical Colleges in Dhaka city. After dissection thickness and girth of tendoachilles was measured and recorded.
 Results: Among 60 human cadaver, 30 are male and 30 are female. The mean thickness of tendoachilles was greater in right leg than in left leg at its junction with gastrocnemius in male, (P<0.001) at the level of 4 cm above its junction with calcaneus and at the level of its junction with calcaneus in both male and female. No significant difference was observed in the measurement of thickness of right and left tendoachilles at the level of its junction with gastrocnemius in female. Mean girth of tendoachilles was greater in right leg than in left leg at its junction with gastrocnemius, at the level of 4 cm above its junction with calcaneus and at the level of its junction with calcaneus in both male and female.
 Conclusions: The present study revealed that thickness and girth of tendoachilles was greater in right leg than in left leg which were statistically significant. The difference in thickness and girth can be useful during repair of rupture tendon by orthopaedic and plastic surgeon.
 J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll, December 2019, Vol.11(2); 124-129

Evaluating the Impact of Penile Girth Discrepancy on Patient Bother in Men With Peyronie's Disease: An Observational Study

BackgroundMen with Peyronie's disease (PD) may experience penile narrowing. Little data on penile girth changes and their psychosocial impact exist. AimTo assess girth discrepancy in men with PD and its association with patient bother. MethodsThis was a retrospective observational study. All patients with PD at our institution who were seen in the sexual medicine clinic and who completed 3 validated instruments the PD questionnaire (PDQ), Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire, and a depression questionnaire, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and a curvature assessment were included. Patient and PD characteristics are described. Associations of instability and bother to girth differences are assessed. 2 outcomes for girth differences are classified as (i) girth difference of ≥ 1 cm vs less and (ii) girth differences of ≥10% vs less. Unadjusted and adjusted effects of PD and patient characteristics are assessed on the outcome of high bother using logistic regression models. OutcomesThe main outcomes of this study were penile girth changes, instability, and questionnaire scores. High bother was defined as a PDQ bother score of ≥9. ResultsA total of131 men had midshaft curvature and were the focus of the study. Their mean age was 59 ± 9 (range 31–78) years. PD duration was 16 ± 25 (range 1–180) months, with a mean degree of primary curvature of 37 ± 20o. Mean girth difference between base and point of maximum curvature was 0.78 ± 0.53 cm equating to a mean girth difference at point of maximum curvature of 6 ± 4%. Instability was present in 53% of men. There were 54 men with a girth difference of ≥ 1 cm and 23 men with a ≥10% change in girth. There was no difference in CES-D, SEAR, or PDQ domain scores or high bother in men with significant girth changes. Univariable analysis of predictors of high bother included the degree of curvature (odds ratio [OR]: 1.06; P < .001), instability (OR 6.62; P < .001), CES-D sum (OR 1.09; P = .002), and SEAR score (OR 0.96; P = .001). On multivariate analysis, only the degree of primary curvature was predictive of high bother (OR 1.06; P < .001). Clinical ImplicationsPenile girth changes have little impact on overall psychosocial well-being. The degree of penile curvature is the primary predictor of patient bother. Strengths and LimitationsStrengths include a large patient population and use of validated questionnaires. Limitations include single-center, retrospective study and subjective instability grading. ConclusionsPenile girth discrepancy in men with PD has limited psychosocial impact. Clinically significant bother was associated with the degree of primary curvature.Salter CA, Nascimento B, Terrier, JE, et al. Evaluating the Impact of Penile Girth Discrepancy on Patient Bother in Men With Peyronie's Disease: An Observational Study. J Sex Med 2020;17:1560–1565.

Assessment and selection based on girth and yield performance of new &lt;em&gt;Hevea genotypes&lt;/em&gt; generated from controlled hybridization

The objective of this study was to evaluate the girth and yield performance of new Hevea genotypes obtained from the 1998 hand pollination (HP) program. Sixty-five new genotypes were assessed along with the control clones viz. RRIC 121, RRIC 130 and RRISL 205. Dry rubber yield for six years, annual girth at the 14th year and girth increment, percentage of tappable trees, survival trees and tapping panel dryness affected trees and latex properties of selected genotypes were evaluated. Considering the results, 63% of the genotypes were recorded as significantly higher or similar average yield compared to control clones. The genotypes, 98-80 and 98-219 were the top-rankers with average yields of 53.7 g and 52.0 g per tree per tapping, respectively. Moreover, the progeny generated from 1998 hand pollination consisted of good yielders similar to the yield of the clone RRIC 121 and could be considered as potential candidates for future clonal selection programmes to develop elite clones. Eighty-two percent of the genotypes showed significantly higher or similar mean girth compared to controls. Genotypes, 98-276 and 98-68 were ranked at number one and two, which have obtained respective girth values of 80.6 cm and 76.5 cm. Eighteen percent of genotypes recorded more than 70 cm of mean girth, which was an indicator of the development of vigorous timber clones in the future. Moreover, these genotypes possess high yield potential. Almost all the genotypes had significantly high girth increment during the immature phase than the post tapping phase. Genotypes 98-80 and 98-219 had performed well based on the dry rubber content (DRC), sucrose and inorganic phosphorus values. In conclusion, the 1998 HP programmes has generated a valuable pool of genotypes that have paved the path to producing outstanding Hevea clones.

Size-density trajectories for even-aged sessile oak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) and common beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) stands revealing similarities and differences in the mortality process

We studied the size-density trajectories of pure even-aged unthinned experimental sessile oak ( Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) stands in the ranges of 994–135,555 trees per hectare initial densities, observed from the ages of 5 to 38. We compared them to unthinned beech ( Fagus sylvatica L.) stands from the same experimental area. An original piecewise polynomial function was fitted to the trajectories, giving way to various applications. For each species, the initial number of trees per hectare ( N 0 ) and the mean girth at breast height at the onset of mortality (Cg 0 ) were parameters of the trajectory model, in addition to the parameters of the maximum size-density lines. The two former parameters (Cg 0, N 0 ) were tied by a linear relationship, which allowed the prediction of trajectories for initial densities not included in the study data. For oak and beech, mortality onset occurred at a constant relative density (RDI), for all initial stand densities, respectively, 0.35 and 0.29. The comparison of the size-density trajectories of oak and beech allowed to establish that oak needs more space than beech for comparable mean girth, and then is less efficient than beech in its space requirements. This paper models the size-density trajectories of pure even-aged sessile oak stands, including the early development stage. It compares the oak results with those on common beech on the same site from a previous study. A novel approach to size-density trajectories, with an original polynomial piecewise function previously used for beech stands on the same site, was satisfactorily used again as a mortality model to provide references to managers of oak forests. A 38-year-old oak spacing trial, re-measured from year 5 to year 38, provided the opportunity to study the size-density trajectories of unthinned stands of this species. The fit of the piecewise polynomial function allowed us to estimate the parameters of the size-density trajectories of all stands, which were the initial number of trees per hectare (N0) and the mean girth at breast height at the onset of mortality (Cg0), in addition to the intercept (a) and slope (b) of the maximum size-density line. A linear relationship between Ln(N0) and Ln(Cg0) (where Ln is the Neperian logarithm) allowed us to reduce the number of parameters needed to fit the trajectories and made it possible to predict a size-density trajectory from any initial density not observed in the experimental stands. Moreover, this later line appeared to be parallel to the maximum size-density line, and new data allowed to establish that this was also the case for the beech stands on the same site. This parallelism feature translates to the onset of mortality occurring at the same relative density for stands of every initial density that is 0.35 for oak and 0.29 for beech. Given the parameters of the maximum size-density line, a single-parameter function family could be used to predict the size-density trajectories of oak stands. The predicted trajectories have various applications in oak silviculture and growth simulators. The oak data and new data for beech stands on the same site allowed to compare the two species and draw conclusions on similitudes and differences concerning mortality and space requirements of both species.

Body condition indicators: Assessing the influence of harvest location and potential thresholds for application in beluga monitoring

• Sex-specific beluga body condition models account for size, age, location, and year. • Belugas from entrapment events can serve as thresholds for body condition indicators. • Spatial variability was detected and requires consideration in the use of indicators. • This study aims to develop blubber thickness and girth as body condition indicators. Monitoring marine protected areas requires simplifying complex marine ecosystems into a suite of indicators. The Tarium Niryutait Marine Protected Area (TN MPA), the first MPA in the Canadian Arctic is located in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, NT and is selecting indicators for monitoring. Proposed health indicators for the TN MPA species of interest, the Eastern Beaufort Sea (EBS) beluga, include the body condition metrics blubber thickness and girth. Sex-specific body condition models for both metrics were developed to account for age, size, location, and timing of harvest from belugas harvested from 2000 to 2015. Models were tested to determine if the spatial variation is detected in the condition of belugas between the three areas of the TN MPA and between belugas harvested inside to outside of the TN MPA. Lastly, we assessed belugas from entrapment events to determine if indicator thresholds could be developed. Three of the indicators (girth male, girth female, blubber thickness male) contain both temporal and spatial factors, signalling the significant influence of year and harvest location on condition. Male belugas harvested from the western area of the TN MPA had smaller mean blubber thickness and girth compared to the other TN MPA areas, whereas there was no significant difference in female condition across the TN MPA. There was a significant difference inside and outside the TN MPA for all four indicators, with larger mean blubber thickness inside the TN MPA, females exhibiting larger mean girth and males exhibiting smaller mean girth inside the TN MPA. Indicators confirm that belugas from entrapment events had significantly lower body condition than belugas harvested during the summer and can serve as thresholds for condition indicators. This study provides guidance on the selection and use of condition indicators for their application in monitoring the TN MPA and demonstrates that careful consideration is required for indicator development and selection.

Yield-Growth Dynamics of Hevea Hybrid Clones in Tripura

Evaluation of growth and yield for twelve selected hybrids from two recombination breeding programmes was conducted in a clonal nursery trial at Tripura (North East India). Girth, increment in girth and yield based on test tapping as well as under ethephon stimulation were evaluated. Based on mean girth and girth increment, 99/5/9, 99/3/61, 99/1/15 and 98/46 were identified as vigorous clones. Test tap yield in the peak season was highest for reference clone RRIM 600 followed by 98/46 Hybrid clones 99/5/9, 99/3/61 and 99/5/35 also had test tap yield above the grand mean in both peak season and summer season. Assessment of intra-clonal variability through boxplot analysis revealed that among the promising clones 98/46, 99/3/61 and 99/5/9 had a lower range in girth, while 98/46 and 99/5/9 had better uniformity in yield. Significant yield-girth correlation was observed within clones in the second year of test tapping. Hybrid clones were classified based on mean and proportion of trees in the above average category. Clones 99/3/61, 99/5/9 and 98/46, belonging to the high girth and high yield categories, recorded higher mean yield than the grand mean over three years of test tapping, were comparable with RRIM 600 and identified as potential clones for further evaluation.

Carbon Sequestration Potential and Edaphic Properties Along the Plantation Age of Rubber in Tripura, Northeastern India

India is voluntarily committed towards reducing carbon emission. Rubber plantation could be an important means for carbon sequestration at state and national level. Tripura holds second position as rubber grower state in India, spreading over 72273 hectare areas. Present study designed to estimate the carbon storage potential, sequestration rate and some selected edaphic properties under four different aged rubber plantations viz. HB05, HB10, HB15 and HB20, following stratified random sampling methodology. Total, 40; 100×10 m transects were laid for estimation of biomass carbon stock and transects were further subdivided in to five equal quadrates 20×10 m sized for sampling soil. The stand structural variables like mean girth size, height, basal area, tree carbon and overall carbon stock significantly varied among the different aged rubber plantations. The periodic annual increment in terms of carbon sequestration was estimated at the rate of 2.97, 3.30, 3.14 and 2.82 (Mg C ha-1 yr-1). The result indicated that total carbon stock in rubber plantation was 202.48 Mg ha-1, out of which tree carbon shared 41.85 and Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) 160.71 Mg ha-1 respectively. SOC did not show any significant variation along the plantation ages. The study suggested that the potentiality of carbon sequestration of rubber plantation in Tripura has immense scope for future carbon credit and incentives.