Months Of Development Research Articles

Morphometric and topographic-anatomical features of the suprahyoid triangle of the anterior cervical region in the fetal period of human ontogenesis

Background. The study of the features of spatio-temporal transformations and the variant anatomy of the suprahyoid region (SHR), the clarification of the critical periods of development and topography of its structures in the fetal period of intrauterine development (IUD) is an important area of morphological research, the development of which contributes to the improvement of methods of prevention, early diagnosis and effective correction of congenital malformations and acquired diseases of the human neck and face. Objective. To find out the dynamics of morphometric and topographic-anatomical changes of the suprahyoid triangle of the anterior cervical region in human fetuses. Methods. 61 specimens of human fetuses 160.0-480.0 mm of parieto-coccygeal length (TCD) (4-10 months of VUR) were investigated, among which 34 were male and 27 were female. A set of methods of morphological research was applied, which included anthropometry, morphometry, X-ray techniques, preparation, three-dimensional reconstruction, statistical analysis. Results. It was found that the anterior angle of SHR in males decreases slightly during the fetal period of IUD, except for dolichomorphic objects, which tend to increase from the middle of the fetal period, while in females – almost unchanged in mesomorphic objects. In mesomorphic males and dolichomorphic females, the anterior angle of the SHR decreases at 7th month of IUD, while in brachymorphic females it increases. The length of the lateral and posterior borders, anterior-posterior length and area of SHR tend to decrease in male brachymorphic fetuses. In dolichomorphic female fetuses, it decreases by the 6th month of IUD with subsequent growth by the end of the fetal period of development. Irregular temporal dynamics of changes in these morphometric parameters of SHR is observed in dolichomorphic male fetuses and in brachymorphic female fetuses, where accelerated growth was detected in the 6th month of IUD and slowed down during the 7th month of development. Conclusion. The critical periods of morphogenesis of the SHR of human fetuses – the time of the change in the growth rate of the region depending on gender and constitutional type – are 6-7 months of IUD, which may indicate the formation of variants of the structure during this period, and the possible occurrence of congenital defects of the neck and maxillofacial region.

Opening doors to clinical trial participation among Hispanics: Lessons learned from the Spanish translation of ResearchMatch.

Clinical trial participation among US Hispanics remains low, despite a significant effort by research institutions nationwide. ResearchMatch, a national online platform, has matched 113,372 individuals interested in participating in research with studies conducted by 8778 researchers. To increase accessibility to Spanish speakers, we translated the ResearchMatch platform into Spanish by implementing tenets of health literacy and respecting linguistic and cultural diversity across the US Hispanic population. We describe this multiphase process, preliminary results, and lessons learned. Translation of the ResearchMatch site consisted of several activities including: (1) improving the English language site's reading level, removing jargon, and using plain language; (2) obtaining a professional Spanish translation of the site and incorporating iterative revisions by a panel of bilingual community members from diverse Hispanic backgrounds; (3) technical development and launch; and (4) initial promotion. The Spanish language version was launched in August 2018, after 11 months of development. Community input improved the initial translation, and early registration and use by researchers demonstrate the utility of Spanish ResearchMatch in engaging Hispanics. Over 12,500 volunteers in ResearchMatch self-identify as Hispanic (8.5%). From August 2018 to March 2020, 162 volunteers registered through the Spanish language version of ResearchMatch, and over 500 new and existing volunteers have registered a preference to receive messages about studies in Spanish. By applying the principles of health literacy and cultural competence, we developed a Spanish language translation of ResearchMatch. Our multiphase approach to translation included key principles of community engagement that should prove informative to other multilingual web-based platforms.

Visible implant elastomer (VIE) success in early larval stages of a tropical amphibian species.

Animals are often difficult to distinguish at an individual level, and being able to identify individuals can be crucial in ecological or behavioral studies. In response to this challenge, biologists have developed a range of marking (tattoos, brands, toe-clips) and tagging (banding, collars, PIT, VIA, VIE) methods to identify individuals and cohorts. Animals with complex life cycles are notoriously hard to mark because of the distortion or loss of the tag across metamorphosis. In amphibians, few studies have attempted larval tagging and none have been conducted on a tropical species. Here, we present the first successful account of VIE tagging in early larval stages (Gosner stage 25) of the dyeing poison frog (Dendrobates tinctorius) coupled with a novel anesthetic (2-PHE) application for tadpoles that does not require buffering. Mean weight of individuals at time of tagging was 0.12 g, which is the smallest and developmentally youngest anuran larvae tagged to date. We report 81% tag detection over the first month of development, as well as the persistence of tags across metamorphosis in this species. Cumulative tag retention vs tag observation differed by approximately 15% across larval development demonstrating that “lost” tags can be found later in development. Tagging had no effect on tadpole growth rate or survival. Successful application of VIE tags on D. tinctorius tadpoles introduces a new method that can be applied to better understand early life development and dispersal in various tropical species.

INICIAL DEVELOPMENT OF Tectona grandis L.f UNDER NUTRICIONAL RESTRICTION

In the process of seedling production plant nutrition can improve the quality. Among the forest species, the teak stands out for the resistant wood and its rusticity. The knowledge of the nutritional needs of teak seedlings favors its development with reflex in the field production. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with seedlings planted in 3 liter pots, as substrate we used underground soil. The treatments were divided into: control, complete solution; omission of N, omission of P, omission of K, omission of Ca, omission of Mg, omission of Si. To evaluate the effects of treatments on plants, we measured total height and stem diameter, with six biweekly readings. The observations were submitted to analysis of variance and the means were compared by Tukey test at 5% probability. Subsequently, linear regression models were adjusted, containing as independent variable: development time; and variable dependent height and diameter of the collection per treatment. There was no significant difference between treatments in the variable total height of plants, only in stem diameter where the complete treatment had the highest mean values. In the first months of development of teak, it was possible to observe a sufficient performance in the evaluated variables, however, fertilization should be carried out for a satisfactory production, mainly containing the macronutrients N, P, K.

Blood supply formation of the upper urinary tract in the prenatal period of human ontogenesis

Objective — to clarify peculiarities of blood supply of the upper urinary tract in the fetal period of human ontogenesis.Material and methods. The study was conducted on 58 specimens of human fetuses 81,0–375,0 mm of the parietal-coccygeal length (PCL) (4–10th months of the intrauterine development). A complex of morphological examinations was applied including anthropometry, morphometry, vascular injection followed by radiography and dissection, microscopy, graphic reconstruction and statistical analysis.Results. Definitive topography of the blood vessels of the upper urinary tract is established at the beginning of the fetal period. The abdominal part of the ureter is supplied by the ureteric branches of the testicular (ovarian) artery, the branches of the renal and capsular arteries. In the proximal ureter their anastomosis is determined. Variations of blood supply to the abdominal part of the ureter are arterial branches from the aorta and common glomerular arteries. At the end of the fetal period of human ontogenesis the shape of the ureter’s arteries becomes twisty that coinciding with the accelerated growth rate of their length and the slower increase of the ureter’s length. The paraureteral tissue in the surrounding layers of the retroperitoneal fascia, especially it is more prominent behind the abdominal part of the ureter, is clearly defined in the fetal period of the development. Venous outflow from the abdominal part of the ureter occurs proximally in the kidney, distally — in the ureter, capsular, testicular (ovarian) veins. An arcuate vein is clearly defined on the lateral surface of the pelvic-ureteral segment. It probably plays the role of a venous circular circle between different ways of blood outflow from the abdominal part of the ureter.Conclusions. 1. Blood supply of the abdominal segment of ureter in fetuses is ensured by the branches of the ureteral, testicular (ovarian) and renal capsular arteries. 2. The parapelvic ureteral segment is characterized by the availability of the three intraparietal venous plexuses located in the submucous, muscular and adventitial tunics anastomosing between themselves due to permeable veins. 3. A venous collector of the abdominal segment of ureter is arcuate vein located on its lateral wall. Venous outflow occurs in two directions: cranially — in the capsular and renal veins, caudal — in the capsular, ureteral and testicular (ovarian) veins. 4. 4–5 months of the development are critical periods of the abdominal ureter. This is a time for possible occurrence of congenital defect variants of blood vessels syntopia.

Classification for treatment urgency for the microphthalmia/anophthalmia spectrum using clinical and biometrical characteristics.

PurposeCurrent clinical classifications do not distinguish between the severity of the MICrophthalmia/Anophthalmia (MICA) spectrum with regard to treatment urgency. We aim to provide parameters for distinguishing mild, moderate and severe MICA using clinical and biometrical characteristics.MethodsWe performed a single‐centre, cross‐sectional analysis of prospective cohort of 58 MICA children from September 2013 to February 2018 seen at the Amsterdam University Medical Center, The Netherlands. All patients with a visible underdeveloped globe were included. We performed full ophthalmic evaluation including horizontal palpebral fissure length, axial length by ultrasound and/or MRI measurements, paediatric and genetic evaluation. Cases were subdivided based on clinical characteristics. Biometrical data were used to calculate the relative axial length (rAL) and the relative horizontal palpebral fissure length (rHPF) compared with the healthy contralateral eye for unilateral cases.ResultsIn previously untreated patients, a strong correlation exists between rAL and rHPF, distinguishing between severe, moderate and mild subjects using rAL of 0–45%, 45–75% and 75%–100%, respectively. Clinical subgroups were randomly dispersed throughout the scatterplot.ConclusionCurrent classifications lack clinical implications for MICA patients. We suggest measuring eyelid length and axial length to classify the severity and determine treatment strategy. The ‘severe’ group has obvious asymmetry and abnormal socket configuration for which therapy should quickly be initiated; the ‘moderately’ affected group has normal socket anatomy with a microphthalmic eye with disturbing asymmetry for which treatment should be initiated within months of development; the ‘mild’ group has a slightly smaller axial length or less obvious eyelid asymmetry for which reconstructive correction is possible, but expansive conformer treatment is unnecessary.

Clinical Profile and One Year Outcome of Atrial Fibrillation- A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice and imposes a great burden on health care resources. There is limited data regarding the impact of AF in our population. Aim: To estimate the mortality and Major adverse Cardiovascular events {(MACE)- Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), Stroke, Cardiac death} in AF patients in a tertiary care centre in South India. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study included all patients >18 years with newly diagnosed or previously documented evidence of AF in Electrocardiography (ECG). Transient reversible causes and critically ill patients were excluded. Total of 346 patients were recruited and prospectively, followed-up at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months for development of MACE, anticoagulation status, Prothrombin Time (PT), International Normalised Ratio (INR) and major bleeding events. Baseline data including clinical parameters, comorbidities and appropriate investigations such as ECG and Echocardiogram (ECHO) parameters were collected with a structured questionnaire and analysed at one year using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Average age was 60.5 years (SD 11.5 years) and majority (74.6%) were between 50-75 years. Females were more (59.5% vs 40.5%). Most common AF risk factor was Hypertension (44.5%) followed by Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) in 27.2% of AF patients. AF was classified as permanent in 42.2%, persistent in 23.1% and paroxysmal in 34.7%. Valvular AF was present in 26.6% and non-valvular AF in 73.4%. At one year, 17 patients were lost to follow-up. CHA2DS2VASc score of ≥2 was present in 65.1%. During one year follow-up the MACE rate was 26.7% (ischemic stroke in 9.4%, ACS in 2.7% and cardiac mortality in 14.6 %). Mean time in Therapeutic Range (TTR) was 28.12%. TTR >60% (good control) was present in only 9.2%. Conclusion: AF continues to be a significant arrhythmia causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Non-valvular AF was thrice as common as valvular AF. Though 3/4th of the patients were on oral anticoagulants, <10% had their INR under good control which contributed to the higher events. To improve the outcomes in AF patients, treatment of risk factors and optimal anticoagulation plays a crucial role.

Organometric parameters of hepatoduodenal ligament n the perinatal period

During any surgery, in addition to pathology-related factors, it is necessary to evaluate the individual features of the anatomy of a particular area or complex of organs. The relevance of such data is confirmed by the results of numerous studies that show that half of patients are characterized by certain anatomical variants, including the location of the arteries and biliary tract. The purpose of the work is to establish the peculiarities of the morphometric parameters of the components of the hepatic-duodenal ligament. The study was based on 50 preparations of fetus corpses (4 to 10 months) and 10 newborns without external signs of anatomical abnormalities or congenital malformations. Adequate anatomical methods were used during the study: macropreparation, injection of blood vessels, making topographic anatomical sections, morphometry. Statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed using the licensed program RStudio. During the perinatal period, the length of the hepatic-duodenal ligament was found to increase from 5.224±0.572 mm in fetuses for 4 months to 32.12±1.77 mm in newborns. The chart of change of the average values of its length by months of prenatal development indicates uneven increase of organometric parameters. From 4 to 5 months observed a significant increase in the length of the hepatic-duodenal ligament, while from 5 to 7 months of development observed a period of relative slowdown of its length, and from 5 to 6 months of development even a relative decrease in length. The period from 7 to 10 months determines the period of accelerated growth of ligament. The indices of the width of the hepatic-duodenal ligament in the perinatal period increased from 3.292±0.227 mm in fetus of 4 months to 21.25±0.938 mm in newborns. The width increases are not uniform. The periods of accelerated development (4-5 months and 9 months – newborns) and the period of slow development (5-8 months) were observed. It was proved that there are periods of accelerated and slow development, in which during periods of intensive development, organometric indicators always differed significantly, were smaller than the previous ones and outweighed the following ones respectively (4-5 months and 7-9 months, р˂0.05). Regarding the periods of slow development, the organometric indicators in these periods did not differ significantly (р˃0.05). Therefore, analyzing the dynamics of changes in the morphometric parameters of the components of the hepatic-duodenal ligament, revealed periods of their accelerated and slow growth.

The life history and feeding ecology of velvet shell, Velutina velutina (Gastropoda: Velutinidae), a specialist predator of ascidians

Velvet shell, Velutina velutina (Müller, 1776), is a specialist predator of ascidians, like other members of the gastropod family Velutinidae. Globally, invasive ascidians have become problematic, ecologically and economically, yet ecological knowledge of velutinids remains limited. This study outlines the life history and feeding ecology of V. velutina in eastern Canada based on laboratory work complemented by field observations. The life history of V. velutina is closely linked with ascidians, which serve as prey and protection for their egg capsules. Egg capsules were embedded within tunics of Aplidium glabrum (Verrill, 1871) and Ascidia callosa Stimpson, 1852, with a preference for the latter. Seasonal behavioural shifts were consistent annually and corresponded with seawater temperature cycles. Feeding dominated during the coldest months (January–May), growth occurred as water temperature increased to the annual maximum (June and July), transitioning to mating during the warmest period (July–August), and egg capsule deposition dominated as water temperature declined (November–January). Larvae hatched between January and July after 2–4 months of development. Velutina velutina preyed on all ascidian species presented during this study, including golden star tunicate, Botryllus schlosseri (Pallas, 1766), and vase tunicate, Ciona intestinalis (Linnaeus, 1767), two non-indigenous species, although solitary species were preferred.

Sexual pattern and caudal fin as a sexually dimorphic trait in the commercially aquacultured Meiacanthus blennies (Teleostei: Blenniidae)

AbstractThe marine aquarium industry has grown significantly and so has marine ornamental fish aquaculture. The main species targeted by commercial aquaculture are clownfish, dottybacks, gobies, and blennies. However, the limited knowledge available for the reproductive biology of several fish species hinders production, especially for blennies. Therefore, this study investigated whether two mass‐produced blenniids, Meiacanthus nigrolineatus and Meiacanthus smithi, are gonochorists and display caudal fin sexual dimorphism. For this purpose, gonadal samples and morphometric data were collected from specimens of both species kept in captivity for 6 months. Histological preparations of the whole individuals or their gonads were performed and analyzed. Results show that sex ratio does not differ from 1:1 and that gonadal development was similar to other blenniids. No evidence of sexual reversion or simultaneous hermaphroditism was found in the first 8 months of development, suggesting that both species are gonochoric. Differences in the length of upper and lower rays in the caudal fin were not detected for M. smithi, but M. nigrolineatus male individuals displayed significantly longer upper and lower rays, confirming it as a dimorphic trait for this species. The identification of the sexual pattern and sexually dimorphic traits may aid in broodstock pairing for M. nigrolineatus blennies, improving its aquaculture production and perhaps reducing some of the pressure on wild stocks.

PENGARUH EDUKASI BREASTFEEDING IBU POST PARTUM TERHADAP BREASFEEDING SELF EFFICACY

The Baby must receive exclusive breastfeeding at the first six months of development from birth. Exclusive breastfeeding is still bellow of the target. Nutrition is important for baby’s survival, growth, and development. Mother's knowledge about exclusive breastfeeding take effect on exclusive breastfeeding. Knowledge and trust of the mother about breastfeeding can be enhanced by health education. This research to analyze the effect of breastfeeding education onpost-partum mothers regarding breastfeeding self-efficacy in RSUD Soedirman Kebumen. This Method is quasi-experiment design with one group pre-test and post-test design. Purposive sampling applied, as much 43 respondents joined in this study. Breastfeeding education has a significant effect on increasing self-efficacy atbreastfeeding mothers with P value = 0.00.The conclusion is breastfeeding education must be given to post-partum mothers in order to the belief breastfeeding of mothers increases.

Development and implementation of an expert rule set for automated reflex testing and validation of routine coagulation tests in a large pathology network.

Haemostasis laboratories play a critical role in diagnosis and treatment of individuals with bleeding or thrombotic disorders. Routine coagulation assays such as prothrombin time (PT)/ international normalized ratio (INR), and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), are used in monitoring of anticoagulant therapy, as provided for treatment/prevention of thromboembolic disease, and also inform on potential haemostasis dysfunction. Increasing pressure is applied on clinical laboratories to improve response (test turnaround) times, reduce error rates and standardize policies. To this end, we describe our experience with the development and implementation of an automated process for reflex testing and validation of routine coagulation test results in a large pathology network compromising 27 laboratories. Custom-built expert rules were created to perform reflex testing and fully automate routine test validation. These rules were developed/implemented over a 15-month period, including 6months for development/ testing and 9months for training/implementation of >100 personnel at 27 sites. These rules have enabled adherence of standardized pre-analytical (sample integrity) checks, automated reflex decisions, automated verification and overall alignment of network practices. In addition, clinically significant results are immediately referred to haematologists. We report an improvement in test turnaround times, also reflecting savings in operator time. The process was generally well received and generally beneficial to most laboratories in the network.

Clinical Outcomes of Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty in Eyes With Glaucoma Drainage Devices.

In this retrospective case series of 85 eyes, 31.8% developed graft failure and graft survival was 50% at 3 years. The presence of an aqueous shunt has a significantly adverse effect on long-term graft survival. To report visual outcomes and complications of Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) in eyes with glaucoma drainage devices (GDD). A retrospective chart review was conducted of 122 procedures of 85 eyes of 83 patients who underwent DSEK and had prior or concurrent GDD implantation. Mean follow-up was 36.5±31.4 months. Patients with postoperative follow-up of <3 months were excluded from analysis. Outcome measures examined included visual acuity, donor dislocation rate, intraocular pressure (IOP), and graft survival. The mean logMAR vision improved to 1.07 postoperatively from 1.43 preoperatively, with 61% of eyes experiencing improved visual acuity. Graft dislocation occurred in 27 (31.8%) eyes and required repeat injection of air in the anterior chamber. Primary graft failure occurred in 2 (2.4%) eyes, whereas secondary graft failure occurred in 27 (31.8%) of eyes, with an average time of 24.3 months for development. Estimated survival rates at 1, 2, and 3 years were 89%, 78%, and 50%, respectively. Escalation of IOP occurred in 21 (24.7%) eyes postoperatively, where 14 eyes underwent medical therapy and 7 eyes required surgical intervention/laser for IOP control. DSEK after GDD is a viable alternative to treat endothelial dysfunction, with the majority of patients achieving visual improvement. However, aqueous shunt implantation has a significantly adverse effect on long-term graft survival and close follow-up is warranted.

Characteristics of the uterine tubes in the fetal period: topographic and morphometric parallels

Topicality of the study is stipulated by the importance of objective data for medicine concerning formation of the structure and topographic-anatomical interrelations of the uterine tubes with adjacent organs and structures during the prenatal period of human ontogenesis. Objective: to find and compare tendencies of changes of the uterine tube morphologic parameters in the two groups of fetuses remote in time, and determine age peculiarities of their topography during perinatal period of development. The experimental material (specimens of fetuses) was divided into two groups: І group – 35 specimens of fetuses deceased during 2017-2019; ІІ group – 105 specimens of fetuses taken from the Museum of the Departments of Anatomy, Clinical Anatomy and Operative Surgery at Higher State Educational Establishment of Ukraine “Bukovinian State Medical University”, collected during 1970-1990. Every group was subdivided into 7 subgroups according to 10 months of the fetal period of development (from the 4th to the 10th months). The results obtained were statistically processed in the licensed statistical package “Statistica 6.0” using nonparametric methods to evaluate the results. Regular changes in the topography of the right and left uterine tubes, changes in their shape and histological structure are observed. Both uterine tubes were found to occupy an ascending position in thirty cases out of sixty examined specimens of early fetuses (4-6 months of age). In twenty cases one uterine tube was found to be in an ascending position, and in ten cases both uterine tubes were placed practically horizontally. The study of uterine tube morphogenesis in 7-month fetuses found that the structure and topography of the uterine tubes in different age periods differ. In two 7-month fetuses the uterine tubes were found to be in an ascending position, in eight cases one uterine tube (the left one – in six cases out of eight) was in a horizontal position, and in ten cases two uterine tubes were directed practically horizontally. During the 8th month of the antenatal development one uterine tube was found to be in an ascending position out of eight cases; in ten cases both uterine tubes were in the position close to a horizontal one; and in two cases the left uterine tube was in a descending position. In 9-month fetuses both uterine tubes were found to be in a horizontal position in twelve cases, in eight cases one of the uterine tubes was in the position close to a descending one. In fourteen fetuses 10 months of development one uterine tube was in a descending position, and only in six cases both uterine tubes were located horizontally. The length of the uterine tubes of 4-7-month fetuses deceased during 2017-2019 was not found to differ reliably. Similar regularity was found in the group of fetuses aged from 9 to 10 months. The length of the uterine tubes of the archival specimens increases reliably every two months. In this group of fetuses the parameters of the uterine tube length aged from 9 to 10 months were found to differ reliably contrary to the length of the uterine tubes in the group of modern specimens of a similar age. Comparison of dynamics in changes of the uterine tube length in the two groups of fetuses remote in time showed that within the frame of one group differences in the morphometric parameters between the right and left uterine tubes are not considerable. Therefore, the study of peculiarities in the structure of the uterine tubes at every stage of the perinatal period found certain peculiarities and regularities of their development.

Relación entre las características sociodemográficas y la discapacidad en adultos del municipio de Sabanalarga - Atlántico

Introducción. En el Informe mundial de discapacidad publicado por la Organización Mundial de la Salud en 2011, se reportó que más de 1,000 millones de personas viven con algún tipo de discapacidad; el panorama muestra que la proporción de discapacidad está en aumento. La discapacidad se relaciona de forma importante con situaciones de vulnerabilidad, pobreza, bajos ingresos socioeconómicos, menor escolaridad, mayor desempleo y dificultades para el acceso de vivienda. Objetivo. Hallar la correlación entre las variables sociodemográficas y la discapacidad en personas adultas del municipio de Sabanalarga, Colombia. Metodología. Estudio analítico; se realizó un muestreo no probabilístico de 125 sujetos voluntarios con discapacidad del municipio de Sabanalarga, con edad igual o mayor a 20 años y con más de seis meses de evolución de la limitación permanente. Se utilizó el World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule versión 2.0, validado por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Resultados. De las áreas evaluadas (escala de 0 a 100 puntos), el mayor promedio de puntuación fue movilidad 32.1± 26.3537 y el área con menor promedio de puntuación fue autocuidado 14.3± 20.1740 puntos. Las variables sociodemográficas edad y rango de edad, presentaron asociación significativa con cognición, movilidad y puntuación global de discapacidad, con un P Valor de 0.000 y un intervalo de confianza del 95 %. Conclusiones. A partir de los resultados es posible afirmar que en la población participante a mayor edad mayor discapacidad. [Gil-Obando LM, López-López A, Manotas-Guzmán YM, Martínez-Cervantes SD. Relación entre las características sociodemográficas y la discapacidad en adultos del municipio de Sabanalarga – Atlántico. MedUNAB. 2019;21(3):378-388. doi: 10.29375/01237047.2796]

Long-term acclimation to near-future ocean acidification has negligible effects on energetic attributes in a juvenile coral reef fish

Increased levels of dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) drive ocean acidification and have been predicted to increase the energy use of marine fishes via physiological and behavioural mechanisms. This notion is based on a theoretical framework suggesting that detrimental effects on energy use are caused by plasma acid-base disruption in response to hypercapnic acidosis, potentially in combination with a malfunction of the gamma aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors in the brain. However, the existing empirical evidence testing these effects primarily stems from studies that exposed fish to elevated CO2 for a few days and measured a small number of traits. We investigated a range of energetic traits in juvenile spiny chromis damselfish (Acanthochromis polyacanthus) over 3months of acclimation to projected end-of-century CO2 levels (~ 1000µatm). Somatic growth and otolith size and shape were unaffected by the CO2 treatment across 3months of development in comparison with control fish (~ 420µatm). Swimming activity during behavioural assays was initially higher in the elevated CO2 group, but this effect dissipated within ~ 25min following handling. The transient higher activity of fish under elevated CO2 was not associated with a detectable difference in the rate of oxygen uptake nor was it mediated by GABAA neurotransmitter interference because treatment with a GABAA antagonist (gabazine) did not abolish the CO2 treatment effect. These findings contrast with several short-term studies by suggesting that end-of-century levels of CO2 may have negligible direct effects on the energetics of at least some species of fish.

Prospective Study of Cardiac Events During Proteasome Inhibitor Therapy for Relapsed Multiple Myeloma.

Cardiovascular adverse events (CVAEs) can occur during proteasome inhibitor (PI) therapy. We conducted a prospective, observational, multi-institutional study to define risk factors and outcomes in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) receiving PIs. Patients with relapsed MM initiating carfilzomib- or bortezomib-based therapy underwent baseline assessments and repeated assessments at regular intervals over 6 months, including cardiac biomarkers (troponin I or T, brain natriuretic peptide [BNP], and N-terminal proBNP), ECG, and echocardiography. Monitoring occurred over 18 months for development of CVAEs. Of 95 patients enrolled, 65 received carfilzomib and 30 received bortezomib, with median 25 months of follow-up. Sixty-four CVAEs occurred, with 55% grade 3 or greater in severity. CVAEs occurred in 51% of patients treated with carfilzomib and 17% of those treated with bortezomib (P = .002). Median time to first CVAE from treatment start was 31 days, and 86% occurred within the first 3 months. Patients receiving carfilzomib-based therapy with a baseline elevated BNP level higher than 100 pg/mL or N-terminal proBNP level higher than 125 pg/mL had increased risk for CVAE (odds ratio, 10.8; P < .001). Elevated natriuretic peptides occurring mid-first cycle of treatment with carfilzomib were associated with a substantially higher risk of CVAEs (odds ratio, 36.0; P < .001). Patients who experienced a CVAE had inferior progression-free survival (log-rank P = .01) and overall survival (log-rank P < .001). PI therapy was safely resumed in 89% of patients, although 41% required chemotherapy modifications. CVAEs are common during PI therapy for relapsed MM, especially with carfilzomib, particularly within the first 3 months of therapy. CVAEs were associated with worse overall outcomes, but usually, discontinuation of therapy was not required. Natriuretic peptides were highly predictive of CVAEs; however, validation of this finding is necessary before uniform incorporation into the routine management of patients receiving carfilzomib.

Do polyembryonic seeds of Carapa surinamensis (Meliaceae) have advantages for seedling development?

ABSTRACT Polyembryony is the differentiation and development of multiple embryos in a single seed. This characteristic can provide advantages, as more than one embryo is produced with the same amount of resources, and the probability of establishment of at least one seedling increases. However, sibling seedlings may also increase competition, affecting development and survival. In the present study, the possible advantages and disadvantages of polyembryony were analyzed in the initial establishment of seedlings of Carapa surinamensis (Meliaceae), a tree species that produces monoembryonic or polyembryonic seeds. In this regard, the development of single seedlings was compared with a pair of seedlings emerging from polyembryonic seeds. We compared the development of seedlings attached to or detached from each other and to the seed resources. We observed two levels of competition: (a) for the seed reserves during germination and initial development, as multiple embryos of C. surinamensis share the same reserves, and (b) for external factors, mostly space for root and shoot development, and also for light. Reducing the competition for external factors by separating the siblings was not enough to reduce the effects of competition for seed reserves in the first six months of development. Nevertheless, viable seedlings were produced in all treatments. Thus, depending on sprout management in the nursery, the number of seedlings per seed can be significantly increased by detaching the seedlings, or more vigorous seedlings can be obtained when only one seedling is maintained.

Peculiarities of organometric parameters of the coronary arteries in the perinatal period of ontogenesis

Formation of the structure and topography of the coronary arteries during the fetal and early neonatal periods of human ontogenesis is an essential constituent while making perinatal diagnosis and understanding real parameters of the norm and pathology. Objective of the study is to determine organometric parameters of the carotid arteries during the fetal and early neonatal periods of human ontogenesis. The study was conducted on 50 specimens of dead fetuses (from 4 to 10 months) and 9 neonates (5 isolated complexes of organs in particular) by means of adequate anatomical methods: macrodissection, injection of the blood vessels, making topographic-anatomical sections, morphometry, and statistical analysis. During perinatal period external diameters and lengths of the carotid arteries are found to be characterized by two periods of an accelerated development and the period of relatively slow development. For the external diameter of the right common carotid artery and the external diameter of the left internal carotid artery the periods from the 4th to 7th months of the intrauterine development and the period from the 9th month to the neonatal period are the periods of an accelerated development; the periods from the 7th to 9th months of development are the period of relatively slow development. The periods from the 4th to the 7th months of the intrauterine development and the period from the 10th month till neonatal period are the periods of an accelerated development for the external diameter of the left common carotid artery and external diameter of the right internal carotid artery; the period from the 7th to the 10th months of development is the period of relatively slow development. The periods from the 4th to the 7th months of the intrauterine development and from the 8th month of development till the neonatal period are the periods of an accelerated development for the external diameter of the right and left external carotid arteries; the period during 7-8th months is the period of relatively slow development. The length of the cervical part of the right and left carotid arteries is characterized by the two periods of an accelerated development – from the 4th to the 6th month and from the 7th month till the neonatal period; the period of relatively slow development is from the 6th to the 7th month of the intrauterine development. Comparison of the developmental periods of the carotid arteries with all the possible organometric parameters enables to affirm that practically similar enlargement of the external diameters of the common, external and internal carotid arteries both from the right and left sides is peculiar for the period of relatively slow development. The first period of an accelerated development of the carotid arteries is more specific for the external diameter and length of the left common and left external artery contrary to the second accelerated period of development of the carotid arteries. It is characterized by enlargement of the external diameters of the right common and right external carotid artery. A reliable difference of the mean values of the external diameters of the right and left common, external and internal carotid arteries is peculiar for the 4th, 7th, 10th months of development and for the neonatal period for the common carotid arteries; for the external carotid arteries – the 4th, 7th, 9th months of development and neonatal period; for the internal carotid arteries – for the whole months of development.

Ovarian characteristics in the fetal period: topographic and morphometric parallels

Defects of the urinary system take the 3rd place by their occurrence including 6% of developmental defects of the female reproductive organs. Therefore modern studies in the field of perinatal anatomy are of a special importance. Objective of the study was to determine age peculiarities in the structure and topography of the fetal ovaries as well as similar and different tendencies in changes of the ovarian morphological parameters of the two groups of fetuses, remote in time. The study was conducted in the two groups of human fetuses, 4-10 months of development, 161.0-500.0 mm of the parietal-calcaneal length. The first group consisting of 35 specimens divided into 7 subgroups according to the month of development (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10), was formed with fetuses died during 2017-2019 years. The second group included specimens of fetuses collected during 1970-1990. The obtained results were statistically processed in the licensed statistical package “Statistica 6.0”. The character of distribution for every obtained variation lines, mean values for every sign, standard quadratic deviation, percentile scope of the parameters were evaluated. Reliability of differences in the indices between independent quantitative values was determined by means of Mann-Whitney U-criterion. The conducted study determined that the ascending position of the ovaries in the early fetuses can be considered normal for the given age group, though the topography is indicative of developmental retardation at the late stages of perinatal development. The length of the ovary in both groups increases gradually from the 4th to the 10th month with a certain delay during the 6th month. It might be associated with intensified growth of its parenchyma, and intensive increase of its width and length respectively. The majority of the ovarian parameters of 9-10 month fetuses do not differ reliably, which is indicative of a complete development of the ovarian definite structure at the 9th month of the intrauterine development. Comparison of the parameters of the two groups of fetal specimens, remote in time, is indicative of the fact that in the majority of the parameters they do not differ. Although in modern studies the length of the right ovary in 8-month fetuses, and the length of the left ovary in 7-month fetuses is shorter than that of the archival specimens. Similarly the width of the left ovary in 4-month fetuses appears to be reliably shorter than that of the archival specimens. The thickness of the right ovary of 7 and 10-month modern fetuses is reliably less than that of the appropriate groups of the archival specimens. The thickness of the left ovary of modern fetuses is reliably less than that of the archival specimens during the 10th month. Therefore, a reliable difference was found only in 2 pairs of the parameters included in 42 pairs of the examined morphometric parameters of both groups. It is indicative of inconsiderable changes of these parameters during the period of 27-49 years.