Two High-Quality Cygnus Genome Assemblies Reveal Genomic Variations Associated with Plumage Color.

As an exemplary model for examining molecular mechanisms responsible for extreme phenotypic variations, plumage color has garnered significant interest. The Cygnus genus features two species, Cygnus olor and Cygnus atratus, that exhibit striking disparities in plumage color. However, the molecular foundation for this differentiation has remained elusive. Herein, we present two high-quality genomes for C. olor and C. atratus, procured using the Illumina and Nanopore technologies. The assembled genome of C. olor was 1.12 Gb in size with a contig N50 of 26.82 Mb, while its counterpart was 1.13 Gb in size with a contig N50 of 21.91 Mb. A comparative analysis unveiled three genes (TYR, SLC45A2, and SLC7A11) with structural variants in the melanogenic pathway. Notably, we also identified a novel gene, PWWP domain containing 2A (PWWP2A), that is related to plumage color, for the first time. Using targeted gene modification analysis, we demonstrated the potential genetic effect of the PWWP2A variant on pigment gene expression and melanin production. Finally, our findings offer insight into the intricate pattern of pigmentation and the role of polygenes in birds. Furthermore, these two high-quality genome references provide a comprehensive resource and perspective for comparative functional and genetic studies of evolution within the Cygnus genus.

Disentangling the causes of age-assortative mating in bird populations with contrasting life-history strategies.

Age shapes fundamental processes related to behaviour, survival and reproduction, where age influences reproductive success, non-random mating with respect to age can magnify or mitigate such effects. Consequently, the correlation in partners' age across a population may influence its productivity. Despite widespread evidence for age-assortative mating, little is known about what drives this assortment and its variation. Specifically, the relative importance of active (same-age mate preference) and passive processes (assortment as a consequence of other spatial or temporal effects) in driving age assortment is not well understood. In this paper, we compare breeding data from a great tit and mute swan population (51- and 31-year datasets, respectively) to tease apart the contributions of pair retention, cohort age structure and active age-related mate selection to age assortment in species with contrasting life histories. Both species show age-assortative mating and variable assortment between years. However, we demonstrate that the drivers of age assortment differ between the species, as expected from their life histories and resultant demographic differences. In great tits, pair fidelity has a weak effect on age-assortative mating through pair retention; variation in age assortment is primarily driven by fluctuations in age structure from variable juvenile recruitment. Age-assortative mating is, therefore, largely passive, with no evidence consistent with active age-related mate selection. In mute swans, age assortment is partly explained by pair retention, but not population age structure, and evidence exists for active age-assortative pairing. This difference is likely to result from shorter life-spans in great tits compared with mute swans, leading to fundamental differences in their population age structure, whereby a larger proportion of great tit populations consist of a single age cohort. In mute swans, age-assortative pairing through mate selection may also be driven by greater age-dependent variation in fitness. The study highlights the importance of considering how different life histories and demographic differences arising from these affect population processes that appear congruent across species. We suggest that future research should focus on uncovering the proximate mechanisms that lead to variation in active age-assortative mate selection (as seen in mute swans); and the consequences of variation in age structure on the ecological and social functioning of wild populations.

Improvement in Olfaction in Patients With CRSwNP and Severe Asthma Taking Anti-IgE and Anti–IL-5 Biologics: A Real-Life Study

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), which is characterized by partial loss of smell (hyposmia) or total loss of smell (anosmia), is commonly associated with asthma and/or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug–exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD). CRSwNP worsens disease severity and quality of life. Objectives: The objective of this real-world study was to determine whether biological treatments prescribed for severe asthma can improve olfaction in patients with CRSwNP. A further objective was to compare the improvement in in olfaction in N-ERD and non–N-ERD subgroups.Methods: We performed a multicenter, noninterventional, retrospective, observational study of 206 patients with severe asthma and CRSwNP undergoing biological treatment (omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab, or reslizumab). Results: Olfaction improved after treatment with all 4 monoclonal antibodies (omalizumab [35.8%], mepolizumab [35.4%], reslizumab [35.7%], and benralizumab [39.1%]), with no differences between the groups. Olfaction was more likely to improve in patients with atopy, more frequent use of short-course systemic corticosteroids, and larger polyp size. The proportion of patients whose olfaction improved was similar between the N-ERD (37%) and non–N-ERD (35.7%) groups. Conclusions: This is the first real-world study to compare improvement in olfaction among patients undergoing long-term treatment with omalizumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab, or benralizumab for severe asthma and associated CRSwNP. Approximately 4 out of 10 patients reported a subjective improvement in olfaction (with nonsignificant differences between biologic drugs). No differences were found for improved olfaction between the N-ERD and non–N-ERD groups (AU)

La rinosinusitis crónica con poliposis nasal (PN), caracterizada por la pérdida parcial o completa del olfato (hiposmia o anosmia, respectivamente), se asocia frecuentemente a asma y a enfermedad respiratoria exacerbada por ácido acetilsalicílico (EREA), lo cual implica una mayor gravedad y un deterioro adicional de la calidad de vida del paciente. Objetivos: El objetivo principal de este estudio fue determinar, en condiciones de vida real, si los tratamientos biológicos prescritos para asma grave mejoraban el olfato en aquellos pacientes que asociaban PN. Como objetivo secundario, se comparó la mejoría del olfato entre los subgrupos EREA y no EREA. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio multicéntrico, observacional, retrospectivo, que incluyó 206 pacientes con PN y asma grave en tratamiento con algún biológico (omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab oreslizumab). Resultados: Se encontró mejoría del olfato con todos los biológicos: omalizumab (35,8%), mepolizumab (35,4%), reslizumab (35,7%) y benralizumab (39,1%), sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre ellos. Los pacientes con atopia, mayor uso de corticoides sistémicos y mayor tamaño de PN inicial, presentaron mayor mejoría. La proporción de pacientes que presentaron mejoría en el olfato fue similar entre el grupo EREA (37%) y no EREA (35,7%). Conclusiones: Se trata del primer estudio que compara, en condiciones de vida real, la mejoría del olfato en pacientes en tratamiento con omalizumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab o benralizumab indicados por asma grave que asociaban PN. Aproximadamente, 4 de cada 10 pacientes refirió mejoría subjetiva en el olfato (sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los distintos biológicos). No se encontraron diferencias entre el grupo EREA y no EREA (AU)

Habitat-, age-, and sex-related alterations in oxidative stress biomarkers in the blood of mute swans (Cygnus olor) inhabiting pomeranian coastal areas (Northern Poland).

The mute swan (Cygnus olor) can be considered a representative species of birds associated with the aquatic environment and responding very clearly to changes in the environment. Assuming that the condition of the mute swan population well reflects the state of the environment, this species was used in our research as a bioindicative species. Thus, the aim of our study was to elucidate the association between metal contents in soil samples collected from a habitat of mute swans and element contents in their feathers as well as the levels of biomarkers of lipid peroxidation, oxidatively modified proteins, and total antioxidant capacity in the blood of mute swans living in three agglomerations in coastal areas in the southern part of the Baltic Sea (Pomeranian region, northern Poland). We compared the effects of inhabitation, age, and sex on the ecophysiological accumulation of metals in three wintering populations of the mute swan from coastal areas of northern Poland, i.e., Slupsk, Gdynia, and Sopot. In Slupsk, the anthropogenic pressure was related predominantly to the level of Al and, to a lesser extent, to the content of Rh and Ru. We found maximum levels of lipid peroxidation biomarkers in the blood of the mute swans from Gdynia (38.20 ± 6.35 nmol MDA·mL-1). At the same time, maximum levels of aldehydic and ketonic derivatives of oxidatively modified proteins were noted in the blood of swans from Sopot compared to the values obtained in mute swans from Slupsk and Gdynia. This trend suggesting high levels of oxidative stress biomarkers was also confirmed by a decrease in the total antioxidant capacity in these groups.

Syzygium aromaticum como candidato a bactericida: efectos en la microbiota oral / Syzygium aromaticum as a bactericidal candidate: effects on the oral microbiota

El cavo de olor (Syzygium aromaticum) es un árbol, originario de Indonesia, con altura variable, pero que sobre pasa los 10 metros de altura, perteneciente a la familia de las Myrtaceae y cuyas flores que no han abierto, se convierten en botones, que al secar son los mencionados clavos de olor. Poseen como componente principal el Eugenol, entre otros compuestos orgánicos. Por sus características bioquímicas y organolépticas, le proporcionan varios beneficios para la salud, por actuar como estimulantes, antioxidante, con acción antibacterial, antiespasmódicas, además de su marcada acción analgésica y anestésica. Por su parte, la microbiota oral, está conformada por un amplio conjunto de microorganismos pertenecientes al ecosistema bucal y que a través del equilibrio de los mismos, se logrará un adecuado funcionamiento y desarrollo de las funciones fisiológicas en pro de la salud bucal del individuo. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo examinar los datos específicos en el uso del clavo de olor como agente bactericida en las afecciones bucodentales, encontrándose que si puede ser usado como agente bactericida por su marcado efecto sobre la microbiota oral a nivel de eliminar los microorganismos nocivos presentes en la misma, ya que actúa inhibiendo la recomposición de las proteínas, los ácidos nucleicos y la membrana de la pared celular, cambiando la permeabilidad de las células de los microorganismos, favoreciendo su muerte y a su ves favoreciendo el adecuado equilibrio de la microbiota oral, necesario para la adecuada salud bucodental(AU)

The clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is a tree, native to Indonesia, with variable height, but that exceeds 10 meters in height, belonging to the Myrtaceae family and whose flowers that have not opened, become buttons, that when drying are the aforementioned cloves. Their main component is Eugenol, among other organic compounds. Due to their biochemical and organoleptic characteristics, they provide several health benefits, for acting as stimulants, antioxidant, with antibacterial, antispasmodic action, in addition to their marked analgesic and anesthetic action. For its part, the oral microbiota is made up of a wide set of microorganisms belonging to the oral ecosystem and that through their balance, an adequate functioning and development of physiological functions will be achieved in favor of the oral health of the individual. The objective of this research is to examine the specific data on the use of cloves as a bactericidal agent in oral conditions, finding that it can be used as a bactericidal agent due to its marked effect on the oral microbiota at the level of eliminating harmful microorganisms present in it, since it acts by inhibiting the recomposition of proteins, nucleic acids and the cell wall membrane, changing the permeability of the cells of microorganisms, favoring their death and in turn favoring the proper balance of the oral microbiota, necessary for proper oral health(AU)

Bromhidrosis por trimetilaminuria. Dificultades en su diagnóstico y tratamiento / Bromhidrosis caused by trimethylaminuria. Difficulties in its diagnosis and treatment

La trimetilaminuria es una causa de bromhidrosis, que hay que tener en cuenta en niños prepúberes con un desarrollo normal. Su relación con la ingesta, sobre todo de pescado marino, nos hará sospechar su existencia, que deberemos confirmar mediante el análisis de la excreción urinaria de trimetilamina y el estudio genético. Presentamos cuatro casos de trimetilaminuria donde se analizan y discuten las fórmulas más empleadas para valorar una excreción urinaria aumentada de trimetilamina, su correlación con la gravedad del cuadro y con el rendimiento de las pruebas genéticas. Por último, se describen los tratamientos empleados y se realiza una propuesta de tratamiento, basada en las recomendaciones dietéticas y en el asesoramiento a los padres para un mejor conocimiento y manejo de la enfermedad (AU)

Trimethylaminuria is a cause of bromhidrosis to be considered in pre-pubertal children, with normal development. Its relation with the ingestion, especially of marine fish, will make us suspect its existence that we will have to confirm by means of the analysis of the urinary excretion of trimetilamine and the genetic study. We present four cases of trimethylaminuria where the most used formulas to assess increased urinary excretion of trimethylamine are analysed and discussed, as well as their correlation with the severity of the disease and with the performance of genetic tests. Finally, the used treatments are described, and a treatment proposal is made, based on dietary recommendations and advices to parents for a better understanding and management of the disease (AU)

Septic Arthritis and Osteomyelitis Caused by Chryseobacterium indologenes in a Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) and a Ring-Billed Gull (Larus delawarensis).

A 20-year-old female mute swan (Cygnus olor) originally in a flock of free-living swans on a Long Island, New York, lake, was presented for facial swelling and decreased appetite. An adult male ring-billed gull (Larus delawarensis) was also presented to the same wildlife rescue center for bilateral lameness of 1-week duration. Once referred for veterinary evaluation and care, both species were diagnosed with septic arthritis and osteomyelitis caused by Chryseobacterium indologenes and treated with orbifloxacin until complete recovery. Chryseobacterium indologenes is infrequently diagnosed as an opportunistic pathogen in human medicine, and less so in veterinary medicine. In human patients, this bacterium is the cause of various infections, including meningitis, pneumonia, and implant failure. However, in veterinary medicine its pathogenicity has only been reported in fish, and sporadically mentioned as a culture result in tree frogs and turtles, where it was generally considered insignificant. In this report a clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis caused by C indologenes is described in 1 anseriforme and in 1 charadriiforme species.

Halitosis: Principios básicos sobre su origen y tratamiento Revisión narrativa / Halitosis: Basic Principles About its Origin and Treatment Narrative Review

RESUMEN Halitosis es la presencia de un olor desagradable que emana de la cavidad oral. La etiología de este mal olor es multifactorial, existiendo causas no orales, orales y extraorales. Los compuestos volátiles sulfurados (CVS): sulfuro de hidrógeno y metilmercaptano son los elementos prominentes del mal olor. Intraoralmente, existe una correlación significativa entre las concentraciones de CVS y bacterias periodontopatogénicas. En pacientes sin enfermedad periodontal el mal olor se origina principalmente de la cobertura del dorso de la lengua por lo que la limpieza o raspado de ésta es un método efectivo para prevenir o disminuir la halitosis. Existen múltiples opciones químicas para el abordaje del mal aliento que dependerán del origen y grado de severidad. Este artículo revisa el origen y los tratamientos tanto mecánicos como químicos que se tienen disponibles.

ABSTRACT Halitosis is the presence of an unpleasant smell that emanates from the oral cavity. The etiology of halitosis is multifactorial, existing non oral, oral and extraoral causes. The volatile sulphur compounds (VSC): hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan are the prominent elements of malodour. Intraorally there is a significant correlation between VSC concentrations and periodontopathogenic bacteria. In patients with no gum disease the halitosis is originated mainly in the dorsal surface of the tongue, so cleaning or brushing it is an effective method to prevent or decrease halitosis. There are multiple chemical options for the treatment of the malodour that will depend on the origin and severity of it. This article reviews the origin and mechanical and chemical treatments that are available.

Effects on Behavior by Different Exposure Durations of Predator Scent Stress / Efectos Conductuales por Exposición a Diferentes Duraciones de Estrés por Olor de Depredador

Abstract Stress is conceptualized as a systemic response triggered by a stimulus potentially harmful to an organism. Instead of an adaptive outcome, life-threatening experiences may contribute to the development of anxiety disorders and depression. Predator scent stress (PSS) is one of the most utilized rodent models of stress-induced psychopathology, in which rodents are exposed to a volatile predator cue that signifies imminent danger. It is unclear if the duration of a life-threatening experience could have differential consequences on the expression of anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors. For this reason, the goal of this present study was to evaluate the effect of different exposure durations (3 min., 10 min., or 20 min.) to the scent of bobcat urine. Wistar rats housed under 12/12 dark cycle in standard laboratory conditions were exposed to the PSS model and 24 hrs. after the stressor, behavioral consequences were evaluated in the open field test, saccharin preference test, and forced swim test. The results obtained show that a 10-minute exposure is sufficient to induce an anxiety-like and a depression-like behavioral profile. We conclude that the time exposure could be a major variable to obtain clear and trustable results and to avoid overexposure to stressor.

Resumen El estrés es una respuesta sistémica desencadenada por un estímulo potencialmente peligroso para el organismo. Esta respuesta permite al organismo adaptarse a la condición estresante, sin embargo, experiencias que amenazan a la vida pueden incrementar el riesgo de desarrollar trastornos de ansiedad y depresión. La exposición al olor de depredador (EOD) es el modelo animal de patología inducida por estrés más utilizado. Consta de la exposición a una pista olfativa que significa peligro inminente. Aún no está claro si la duración a una experiencia que amenaza la vida puede generar diferencias en la expresión conductas tipo-ansiedad o tipo-depresión. Por esta razón, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de diferentes duraciones de exposición (3 min., 10 min. o 20 min.) al aroma de lince. Se utilizaron ratas hembra de la cepa Wistar en un ciclo luz oscuridad 12/12 en condiciones estándar de laboratorio, los sujetos fueron evaluados en la prueba de campo abierto, preferencia de sacarina y nado forzado 24 hrs. después de terminado el estresor. Los resultados indican que la exposición a 10 min. es suficiente para inducir el perfil conductual tipo-depresión y tipo-ansiedad. Concluimos que el tiempo de exposición puede ser una variable de mayor importancia para obtener resultados confiables y prevenir exposiciones innecesarias al estrés.

Halitosis en otorrinolaringología: una revisión de la literatura / Halitosis in otolaryngology: a review of the literature

RESUMEN La halitosis es un motivo de consulta frecuente y que puede repercutir de gran manera en la calidad de vida de quien la presenta. Puede dividirse en halitosis genuina, pseudohalitosis y halitofobia. De las halitosis genuinas, cerca del 90% son secundarias a patología de la cavidad oral. En otorrinolaringología, las principales causas responden a tonsilolitiasis, patología rinosinusal y cuerpos extraños nasales. Existen distintos métodos diagnósticos que permiten medir e identificar la halitosis, con sus beneficios y desventajas. Las medidas generales de higiene oral, así como intervenciones específicas deben estar basadas en la evidencia a cargo de un equipo multidisciplinario que permita garantizar mejores resultados.

ABSTRACT Halitosis is a frequent health problem, that can have a huge impact in the quality of life of those affected. It can be classified as genuine halitosis, pseudohalitosis and halitophobia. Of genuine halitosis, approximately 90% is originated from the oral cavity. In otorhinolaryngology, most frequent causes are tonsiloliths, rhinosinusitis and nasal foreign bodies. There are different diagnostic methods, each one with its benefits and disadvantages. General measures of oral hygiene, as specific interventions must be evidence-based in charge of a multidisciplinary team that guarantees better results.

Variáveis associadas ao controle do odor em feridas neoplásicas: conhecimento para o cuidado de enfermagem / Variables associated with neoplastic wound odor control: knowledge for nursing care / Variables asociadas al control del olor en heridas neoplásicas: conocimiento para el cuidado de enfermería

Objetivo: analisar variáveis importantes à construção do conhecimento de enfermeiros para o controle do odor de feridas neoplásicas. Método: revisão integrativa de 2002 a 2015 sobre o tema, realizada em 2016, através da Base de Dados de Enfermagem, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, Índice bibliográfico espanhol em Ciências da Saúde, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online e a Cochrane Library, levando à seleção de 19 artigos. Resultados: identificadas três dimensões do conhecimento: autoavaliação, técnico-científico e competências e habilidades, e 26 variáveis a elas relacionadas. O conhecimento técnico-científico, foi mais valorizado, com maior número de variáveis citadas. Conclusão: os resultados poderão contribuir para melhor compreensão dos enfermeiros quanto aos requisitos necessários à construção e aperfeiçoamento do conhecimento em relação ao controle desse sintoma tão desafiador ao profissional de saúde e ao paciente, e beneficiarão gestores e pesquisadores na construção de instrumentos para avaliação de desempenho.

Objective: to analyze variables that are important to building nurses' knowledge of neoplastic wound odor control. Method: this integrative review, conducted in 2016, in Nursing Database, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences database, Spanish Bibliographic Index in Health Sciences, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System online and the Cochrane Library, selected 19 articles published on the subject from 2002 to 2015. Results: three knowledge dimensions were identified: self-assessment, scientific and technical knowledge, competences and abilities, and 26 variables related to them. Technical and scientific knowledge was more highly valued, as reflected by the higher number of variables cited. Conclusion: the results may contribute to improving nurses' understanding of the necessary requisites for building and refining knowledge about controlling this symptom which is challenging to health personnel and patients, and will benefit managers and researchers in building performance evaluation tools.

Objetivo: analizar las variables importantes para la construcción del conocimiento de enfermeros sobre el control del olor de las heridas neoplásicas. Método: revisión integrativa de 2002 a 2015 sobre el tema, realizada en 2016, a través de la Base de Datos de Enfermería, Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe en Ciencias de la Salud, Índice Bibliográfico Español en Ciencias de la Salud, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online y Cochrane Library, que conduce a la selección de 19 artículos. Resultados: se identificaron tres dimensiones del conocimiento: la autoevaluación, el conocimiento técnico-científico, competencias y habilidades y 26 variables asociadas a ellos. El conocimiento técnico-científico fue más valorado, con más variables mencionadas. Conclusión: los resultados podrán contribuir a una mejor comprensión de los enfermeros sobre los requisitos necesarios para la construcción y perfeccionamiento del conocimiento en cuanto al control de este síntoma tan desafiador para el profesional de salud y el paciente y beneficiarán a los gestores e investigadores en la construcción de herramientas para la evaluación del desempeño.

Evaluación de la acción antiséptica de un jabón líquido utilizando algunos aceites esenciales como agente activo / Evaluation of the action antiseptic of a liquid soap using some oils essential as an active agent

RESUMEN Se evaluó la acción antiséptica de un jabón líquido utilizando como activo aceites esenciales de Eugenia caryophyllata T. (clavo de olor) y Cinnamomum verum J. (canela). Se formularon y elaboraron jabones líquidos usando como activo aceites esenciales a concentraciones de 1,5% y 2%, posteriormente se evaluaron parámetros fisicoquímicos, sensoriales, así como también microbiológicos sobre cepas bacterianas de Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 y Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Se encontró que las formulaciones idóneas son aquellas en las que los aceites esenciales de clavo y canela se encuentran a concentraciones del 2%, puesto que presentan actividad contra las cepas bacterianas en cuestión y mejor estabilidad fisicoquímica; siendo elegido entre los evaluadores de las propiedades organolépticas el jabón líquido preparado con aceite esencial de canela como el favorito con respecto al de clavo, por presentar mejor aroma y aspecto. Se concluye que los jabones líquidos antisépticos a partir de 2% de aceite esencial de Eugenia caryophyllata T. y Cinnamomum verum J. presentaron resultados promisorios; igualmente, todos los indicadores fisicoquímicos y químicos evaluados se mantuvieron, lo que nos brinda un indicio de la correcta formulación desde el punto de vista galénico.

SUMMARY The antiseptic action of a liquid soap was evaluated using as essential oils of Eugenia caryophyllata T. (clove) and Cinnamomum verum J. (cinnamon). Is formulated and produced soaps liquids using as active oils essential to concentrations of 1.5% and 2%, subsequently is evaluated parameters physicochemical, sensory, as well as also microbiological on strains bacterial of Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Finding is that the formulations suitable are those in which them oils essential of clove and cinnamon is found to concentrations of the 2%, since present activity against them strains bacterial in question and best stability physicochemical; being chosen among the evaluators of the organoleptic properties liquid soap prepared with essential oil of cinnamon as the favorite on the nail, by presenting better aroma and appearance. Concluding that the antiseptic liquid soaps from 2% of essential oil of Eugenia caryophyllata T. and Cinnamomum verum J. presented promising results; also, all the indicators physicochemical and chemical evaluated were kept, which gives us an indication of the correct formulation from the pharmaceutical point of view.

Non-adaptive territory selection by a bird with exceptionally long parental care.

High-quality territories are expected to provide greater fitness return for breeding individuals and, thus, are likely to have higher long-term occupation rate in comparison to low-quality territories. However, if environmental and ecological cues used for territory selection cannot reliably predict true territory quality, a mismatch between preferences and fitness may occur. We suggest that this kind of non-adaptive territory selection is more likely in species with long reproductive cycles, as a long time interval between territory establishment and young fledgling should reduce predictability of conditions during the critical stages of brood care. In this study, we investigated adaptiveness of territory selection in a migratory bird with exceptionally long parental care, the mute swan Cygnus olor, which requires over four months to complete the entire reproductive cycle from egg laying to young fledging. For this purpose, we collected information on the long-term (10-19 years) occupancy of 222 swan breeding territories and correlated it with reproductive performance (n = 1,345 breeding attempts) and body condition of breeding adults. We found that long-term occupancy positively correlated with the timing of breeding, suggesting that individuals settled earlier in the attractive, frequently occupied territories. By contrast, we found no relationship between territory occupancy and reproductive output (hatching and fledging success) or adult body condition. The results indicate that at the time of territory selection swans might not be able to reliably assess territory quality, likely due to: (1) exceptionally long period of parental care, which reduces temporal correlation between the conditions at the time of territory selection and conditions during chick rearing; and (2) unpredictability of human-related activities that had a major impact on reproductive output of swan pairs in our population.

Distraction Osteogenesis Correction of Mandibular Ramis Fracture Malunion in a Juvenile Mute Swan ( Cygnus olor ).

A juvenile mute swan (Cygnus olor) was presented with right lateral deviation of the mandible. Radiographs demonstrated a healed fracture of the right mandibular ramis, which had compromised osteogenesis. A corrective osteotomy was performed and an osteogenic distractor was inserted over the lateral aspect of the right mandible. Dental acrylic implants were fixed to the rhinotheca to correct rotational alignment. A pharyngostomy tube was placed to facilitate administration of nutrition and medication. Postoperative images confirmed correct alignment of the mandible in relation to the maxilla. Implants were removed and postoperative complications were not reported. This is the first report of an osteogenic distractor used to correct mandibular deviation in an avian species. Distraction osteogenesis should be considered as a valid surgical option in juvenile or adult avian patients with pathologic bone shortening.

Complete mitochondrial genome of Cygnus olor (Aves, Anseriformes, Anatidae).

The complete mitochondrial genome of Cygnus olor (Aves, Anseriformes, Anatidae) was revealed in this study. Total 16 739 base pairs (bp) of this mitogenome encoded genes for 13 protein coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), 22 transfer RNAs (tRNAs) and a D-loop (control region). The 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes are located between tRNA-Phe and tRNA-Leu (UUR) and segmentalized by the tRNA-Val. D-loop is located between tRNA-Glu and tRNA-Phe. The overall base composition of C. olor is G + C: 47.8%, A + T: 52.2%, apparently with a slight AT bias. Following the phylogenetic analysis, the C. olor was closed to Anser cygnoides.

Influenza A virus H5-specific antibodies in mute swans (Cygnus olor) in the USA.

The use of serologic assays for influenza A virus (IAV) surveillance in wild birds has increased because of the availability of commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Recently, an H5-specific blocking ELISA (bELISA) was shown to reliably detect H5-specific antibodies to low- and high-pathogenic H5 viruses in experimentally infected waterfowl. Mute Swans (Cygnus olor) were frequently associated with highly pathogenic H5N1 outbreaks in Europe and may have a similar role if highly pathogenic H5N1 is introduced into North America. We measured the prevalence of antibodies to the nucleoprotein and H5 protein in Mute Swans using three serologic assays. We collected 340 serum samples from Mute Swans in Michigan, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island, US. We detected antibodies to the IAV nucleoprotein in 66.2% (225/340) of the samples. We detected H5-specific antibodies in 62.9% (214/340) and 18.8% (64/340) using a modified H5 bELISA protocol and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay, respectively. The modified H5 bELISA protocol detected significantly more positive samples than did the manufacturer's protocol. We also tested 46 samples using virus neutralization. Neutralization results had high agreement with the modified H5 bELISA protocol and detected a higher prevalence than did the HI assay. These results indicate that North American Mute Swans have high nucleoprotein and H5 antibody prevalences.

Evaluación del seguimiento de 29 niños chilenos con la enfermedad de la orina olor a jarabe de arce clásica / Follow up evaluation of 29 chilean children with classical maple syrup urine disease

Introduction: Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) is caused by a defect of the ketoacid dehydrogenase enzyme complex of the branched amino acids Valine, Isoleucine and Leucine (VIL). The treatment consists of a leucine-restricted diet. Objective: To evaluate the long-term follow-up in children with MSUD. Methodology: 29 records were reviewed of patients with MSUD, of which 24 were clinically identified (> 5th day of life), 4 cases by MSUD family history and one by neonatal screening (< 5th day of life). Leucine (Leu) levels were measured at diagnosis (Biotronic 2000) and during follow-up (mass spectrometry). The number of decompensation events, Total Intellectual Quotient (TIQ, Bayley and Wechsler scale) and nutritional status were also measured. STATA statistical software version 9.2 was applied (p≤0.05). Results: Mean age at diagnosis was 14 days old. In all cases the diagnosis was confirmed by elevated levels of Leu and alloisoleucin. When comparing the TIQ of 19 cases over 3 years old with their age at diagnosis, it was observed that those cases screened by the 5th day of life had a TIQ 84.6 ± 13, while those diagnosed later had a TIQ 73 ± 17 (p≤0.05). In assessing the number of hospitalizations that occurred during follow-up, we determined that the 5 cases screened early never had a metabolic crisis and had a higher TIQ than those who had had one or more decompensation (92 and 74, respectively, p≤0.05). An inverse correlation was observed between the Leu+Isoleucine value and TIQ. Conclusion: The diagnosis before the 5th day of life and a good metabolic control during follow-up, enables children with MSUD to have normal cognitive development.

La enfermedad de la orina olor a jarabe de arce (EOJA) se produce por un defecto del complejo enzimático deshidrogenasa de los cetoácidos de los aminoácidos ramificados: Valina, Isoleucina, Leucina (VIL). El tratamiento es una dieta restringida en leucina (Leu). Objetivo: evaluar el seguimiento a largo plazo en niños con EOJA. Metodología: Se revisaron 29 fichas de pacientes EOJA, 24 fueron pesquisados por clínica (> 5to día de vida) y 4 casos por antecedentes familiares con EOJA y 1 por pesquisa neonatal (< 5to día de vida). Se midió nivel de Leu al diagnóstico (Biotronic 2000) y durante el seguimiento (Espectrometría de masa), número de descompensaciones, Coeficiente Intelectual Total (CIT) (Escalas de Bayley y Wechsler) y estado nutricional. Se aplicó programa estadístico STATA versión 9.2 (p≤0.05). Resultados: La edad de diagnóstico fue a los 14 días de edad. En todos se confirmó el diagnóstico por los niveles elevados de Leu y presencia de alloisoleucina. Al comparar el CIT de los 19 casos mayores de 3 años con la edad de diagnóstico, se observó que aquellos casos pesquisados antes del 5to día tenían un CIT de 84,6±13, a diferencia de los diagnosticados posteriormente que tenían un CIT=73±17 (p≤0.05). Al evaluar el número de descompensaciones ocurridas durante el seguimiento, se determinó que los 5 casos nunca habían tenido una crisis metabólica, tuvieron un CI mayor que aquellos que habían tenido una o más descompensaciones (92 y 74 respectivamente) (p≤0.05). Cuando se correlacionó el valor de Leu+Iso de seguimiento con el CIT, se observó una correlación inversamente proporcional. Conclusión: el diagnóstico antes de los 5to día de vida y un buen control metabólico durante el seguimiento, permite que los niños con EOJA tengan un desarrollo cognitivo normal.

Olores agradables y desagradables en las exposiciones científicas orales / Pleasant and unpleasant smells in the oral scientific expositions

La imagen personal influye en la opinión de la audiencia sobre un discurso y quien lo pronuncia; por tanto, si la persona aspira a que ese aspecto de la comunicación no verbal se convierta en una herramienta que impulse su éxito ante el público, debe ser siempre un arma a su favor en cualquier momento u oportunidad. En el artículo, además de un poco de historia sobre el asunto, se ofrecen determinados consejos y orientaciones -- quizás algunos desatendidos y otros obviados involuntariamente -- acerca de los perfumes y ciertos olores, pero sin duda muy trascendentes en las exposiciones científicas orales(AU)

The personal image influences on the opinion of the audience about a speech and about who pronounces it; therefore, if the person pretends that this aspect of the non verbal communication becomes in a tool which impels his success in front of the public, it should always be a weapon to his favor at any moment or opportunity. In the article, besides some history on the matter, certain advices and orientations are offered -- maybe some disregarded and others involuntarily obviated -- about the perfumes and certain smells, but undoubtedly very transcendent in the oral scientific expositions(AU)

Olores agradables y desagradables en las exposiciones científicas orales / Pleasant and unpleasant smells in the oral scientific expositions

La imagen personal influye en la opinión de la audiencia sobre un discurso y quien lo pronuncia; por tanto, si la persona aspira a que ese aspecto de la comunicación no verbal se convierta en una herramienta que impulse su éxito ante el público, debe ser siempre un arma a su favor en cualquier momento u oportunidad. En el artículo, además de un poco de historia sobre el asunto, se ofrecen determinados consejos y orientaciones -- quizás algunos desatendidos y otros obviados involuntariamente -- acerca de los perfumes y ciertos olores, pero sin duda muy trascendentes en las exposiciones científicas orales.

The personal image influences on the opinion of the audience about a speech and about who pronounces it; therefore, if the person pretends that this aspect of the non verbal communication becomes in a tool which impels his success in front of the public, it should always be a weapon to his favor at any moment or opportunity. In the article, besides some history on the matter, certain advices and orientations are offered -- maybe some disregarded and others involuntarily obviated -- about the perfumes and certain smells, but undoubtedly very transcendent in the oral scientific expositions.