Methane Quantification Performance of the Quantitative Optical Gas Imaging (QOGI) System Using Single-Blind Controlled Release Assessment.

Quantitative optical gas imaging (QOGI) system can rapidly quantify leaks detected by optical gas imaging (OGI) cameras across the oil and gas supply chain. A comprehensive evaluation of the QOGI system's quantification capability is needed for the successful adoption of the technology. This study conducted single-blind experiments to examine the quantification performance of the FLIR QL320 QOGI system under near-field conditions at a pseudo-realistic, outdoor, controlled testing facility that mimics upstream and midstream natural gas operations. The study completed 357 individual measurements across 26 controlled releases and 71 camera positions for release rates between 0.1 kg Ch4/h and 2.9 kg Ch4/h of compressed natural gas (which accounts for more than 90% of typical component-level leaks in several production facilities). The majority (75%) of measurements were within a quantification factor of 3 (quantification error of -67% to 200%) with individual errors between -90% and 831%, which reduced to -79% to +297% when the mean of estimates of the same controlled release from multiple camera positions was considered. Performance improved with increasing release rate, using clear sky as plume background, and at wind speeds ≤1 mph relative to other measurement conditions.

Outcomes for nighttime bracing in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis based on brace wear adherence.

BACKGROUND: This study determined brace wear adherence for patients treated with nighttime braces and evaluated the effect of brace adherence on curve progression. METHODS: One hundred twenty-two patients with AIS ages 10-16 years, Risser stages 0-2, major curves 20°-40° treated with Providence nighttime braces prescribed to be worn at least 8 h per night were prospectively enrolled and followed until skeletal maturity or surgery. Brace adherence was measured using iButton temperature sensors after 3 months of brace initiation and at brace discharge. RESULTS: Curve types were single thoracolumbar/lumbar (62%, n = 76), double (36%, n = 44), and single thoracic (2%, n = 2). Brace adherence averaged 7.8 ± 2.3 h after 3 months (98% adherence) and 6.7 ± 2.6 h at brace discharge (84% adherence). Curves that progressed ≥ 6° had decreased brace adherence than non-progressive curves after 3 months (7.0 h vs. 8.1 h, p = 0.010) and at brace discharge (5.9 h vs. 7.1 h, p = 0.017). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that increased hours of brace wear [odds ratio (OR) 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.46], single curves (OR 3.11, 95% CI 1.35-7.53), and curves < 25° (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.12-6.44) were associated with non-progression at brace discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Patients treated with nighttime bracing have a high rate of brace adherence. Lack of curve progression is associated with increased brace wear. Nighttime bracing is effective at limiting curve progression in AIS single thoracolumbar/lumbar and double curves. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic Level 2.

Nighttime versus Fulltime Brace Treatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: Which Brace to Choose? A Retrospective Study on 358 Patients.

The purpose of this study is to retrospectively compare the effectiveness of fulltime Boston Brace (BB) and Providence Nighttime Brace (PNB) treatments in moderate scoliotic curves (20-40°) at a single institution and to carry out analyses for different subgroups. Inclusion criteria: idiopathic scoliosis, age ≥ 10 years, curve 20-40°, Risser ≤ 3 or Sanders stage ≤ 6 and curve apex below T6 vertebra. Exclusion criteria: incomplete radiological or clinical follow-up and previous treatment. The primary outcome was failure according to the SRS outcome assessment: increase in main curve > 5° and/or increase in main curve beyond 45° and/or surgery. The subgroup analyses were secondary outcomes. In total, 249 patients in the PNB and 109 in the BB groups were included. The BB showed a higher success rate compared to the PNB (59% and 46%, respectively) in both crude and adjusted comparisons (p = 0.029 and p = 0.007, respectively). The subgroup analyses showed higher success rates in pre-menarchal females, thoracic curves and curves > 30° in the BB group compared to the PNB group. Based on the findings, fulltime braces should be the treatment of choice for more immature patients and patients with larger and thoracic curves while nighttime braces might be sufficient for post-menarchal females and patients with lumbar and smaller curves.

Identifying pollution dynamics using discrete Fourier transform: From an urban-rural river, Central Mexico.

The quality of life and human survival is dependent on sustainable development and sanitation of water bodies in an environment. The present research focuses on cyclicity data of more than 750,000 records of parameters associated with the water quality from a rural-urban river monitoring stations in real-time from River Atoyac in Central Mexico. The events detected in the instrumental records correlated with 2528 laboratory and instrumental determinations. The 64 polluting compounds were grouped into inorganic compounds (metals and metalloids) and organic compounds (pesticides, herbicides, hydrocarbons). Metal associated compounds were grouped along mechanical, pharmaceutical and textile industries which associates itself with the entry of polluting components. The cyclicity of the events was detected through Discrete Fourier Transformation time series analysis identifying the predominant events in each station. These highlight the events at 23-26 h corresponding to a circadian pattern of the metabolism of the city. Likewise, pollution signals were detected at 3.3, 5.5, and 12-14 h, associated with discharges from economic activities. Multivariate statistical techniques were used to identify the circadian extremes of a regionalized cycle of polluting compounds in each of the stations. The results of this research allow pollution prevention using a mathematical analysis of time series of different quality parameters collected at monitoring stations in real-time as a tool for predicting polluting events. The DFT analysis makes it possible to prevent polluting events in different bodies of water, allowing to support the development of public policies based on the supervision and control of pollution.

W. Matthews Grant's Dual Sources Account and Ultimate Responsibility.

A number of philosophers and theologians have recently challenged the common assumption that it would be impossible for God to cause humans actions which are free in the libertarian or incompatibilist sense. Perhaps the most sophisticated version of this challenge is due to W. Matthews Grant. By offering a detailed account of divine causation, Grant argues that divine universal causation does not preclude humans from being ultimately responsible for their actions, nor free according to typical libertarian accounts. Here, we argue that the kind of divine universal causation that Grant proposes is incompatible with a plausible interpretation of Robert Kane's influential conception of ultimate responsibility. This conclusion is significant since Grant seeks to harmonize his divine causal account with Kane's articulation of ultimate responsibility.

The Eye of Providence and the Hamsa in medicine.

The mural of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh contains a unique symbol of an eye placed in the palm of a hand. The symbol is known by many names-the Eye of Providence, the All-Seeing Eye, and the Eye of Horus-and has been a central symbol of religious and medical organizations across many cultures, including Egyptian, British, Indian, and American. The symbol is also representative of the Hamsa. In Arabic cultures, the Hamsa is a palm-shaped amulet that is popular in jewelry and wall hangings. It is a symbol of protection against evil. Both symbols have an important history with regards to medical practice. This paper examines the history of the Eye of Providence and the Hamsa with regard to their use and meaning within the medical profession.

Is nighttime bracing effective in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? A meta-analysis and systematic review based on scoliosis research society guidelines.

PURPOSE: Standard treatment for skeletally immature adolescents with moderate Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a full-time spinal orthosis. However, adherence to full-time wear (≥ 18 h/day) is often challenging for these patients. Nighttime bracing is an alternative option that may improve patient adherence and/or satisfaction. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of nighttime bracing in patients with AIS. METHODS: A systematic review of studies evaluating nighttime bracing was performed. PubMed, Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane library databases were searched (01/1975-03/2020); two reviewers assessed eligibility. Eligible articles were peer reviewed, in English, and reported outcomes for patients who met Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) criteria. The primary outcome was curve progression ≥ 6°. Pooled progression rates were calculated from random effects meta-analyses with inverse-variance weights; 95% CIs were calculated. RESULTS: Nine studies (n = 595) were included. The overall pooled progression rate to ≥ 6° was 40.7% (95% CI: 30.4-51.5%). The pooled progression rate to surgical magnitude was 24.8% (95% CI: 4.5-53.6%). The most successful outcomes were in subjects with thoracolumbar/lumbar curves and subjects who initiated bracing at Risser 1/2 (pooled progression rates were 27.8% (95% CI: 17.0-40.0%) and 16.5% (95% CI: 11.7-21.8%), respectively). Univariate sub-analyses were conducted due to sample sizes. CONCLUSIONS: Progression rates in patients with primary thoracolumbar/lumbar curves and in patients who initiated nighttime bracing at Risser 1/2 were comparable to published progression rates for full-time bracing, indicating that nighttime bracing may be equally effective for these patients. However, the strength of these conclusions is limited by the sample size and the overall quality of included studies.

Boston vs. Providence brace in treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a complex condition characterized by a lateral curvature and axial rotational deformity of the spine. Though bracing is effective, a need remains to identify the effect brace type has on spine curvature. To examine differences in patient demographics between the Boston and Providence brace, determine the corrective change in Cobb angle and RVAD and investigate the effect of brace type on curvature over time. A retrospective chart review was conducted of 105 patients diagnosed with AIS from 2013-2016 at CHW. Five spinal parameters were measured: Cobb angle, Risser, RVAD, kyphosis and lordosis. Data was collected before bracing, in-brace and at 24 months. A final treatment outcome of either Cobb angle correction (reduction >5°), stabilization (change ±5°) or progression (deterioration >5°) was then evaluated. Providence brace provided significantly greater in-brace thoracolumbar Cobb angle and RVAD reduction in comparison to the Boston brace (Cobb angle -21.9° vs. -12.5°; RVAD: -1.8° vs. 1.62°). Similarly, Providence users had a significantly smaller increase in Cobb angle and RVAD over time (Cobb angle: thoracic 14.2° vs. 15.0°; thoracolumbar 23.6° vs. 26.0°; RVAD: 5.2° vs. 8.5°). Ultimately, no significant difference in final treatment outcome was established between brace groups. Although the Providence brace provides less of an increase in thoracic and thoracolumbar curvatures over time, both braces are an effective treatment and achieve comparable outcomes. Selection of braces may vary with primary curve angle, curve location, patient compliance and quality of life.

Evaluation of night-time bracing efficacy in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review of the literature. PURPOSE: To systematically review the literature to assess the efficacy of night-time bracing in controlling curve progression with respect to traditional full-time thoraco-lumbo-sacral orthoses (TLSOs) in patient with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. METHODS: PubMed, Ovid, Cochrane Reviews and Google Scholar were all accessed and a combination of terms and keywords pertaining to the core concept was used in the research. Case reports, technical notes, instructional courses, literature reviews, biomechanical and/or in vitro studies were all excluded, as well as case series (level IV studies). The methodological quality of the selected articles was assessed using the MINORS methodology score. Given the overall level and quality of the available evidence, conclusions were drawn based on a summary of the evidence. RESULTS: Seven studies were included. Five papers reported no differences in curve progression between traditional TLSOs and night-time braces and the remaining two studies reported TLSO to be superior. CONCLUSION: The current available literature does not permit us to draw conclusions about night-time braces. The low methodological quality of the studies examined makes it impossible to compare the effectiveness of the night-time braces with that of traditional TLSOs. Prospective well-designed clinical trials applying SRS inclusion and evaluation criteria are mandatory to better define the role of night-time orthosis in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

The Providence Mutation (ßK82D) in Human Hemoglobin Substantially Reduces ßCysteine 93 Oxidation and Oxidative Stress in Endothelial Cells.

The highly toxic oxidative transformation of hemoglobin (Hb) to the ferryl state (HbFe4+) is known to occur in both in vitro and in vivo settings. We recently constructed oxidatively stable human Hbs, based on the Hb Providence (ßK82D) mutation in sickle cell Hb (ßE6V/ßK82D) and in a recombinant crosslinked Hb (rHb0.1/ßK82D). Using High Resolution Accurate Mass (HRAM) mass spectrometry, we first quantified the degree of irreversible oxidation of ßCys93 in these proteins, induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and compared it to their respective controls (HbA and HbS). Both Hbs containing the ßK82D mutation showed considerably less cysteic acid formation, a byproduct of cysteine irreversible oxidation. Next, we performed a novel study aimed at exploring the impact of introducing ßK82D containing Hbs on vascular endothelial redox homeostasis and energy metabolism. Incubation of the mutants carrying ßK82D with endothelial cells resulted in altered bioenergetic function, by improving basal cellular glycolysis and glycolytic capacity. Treatment of cells with Hb variants containing ßK82D resulted in lower heme oxygenase-1 and ferritin expressions, compared to native Hbs. We conclude that the presence of ßK82D confers oxidative stability to Hb and adds significant resistance to oxidative toxicity. Therefore, we propose that ßK82D is a potential gene-editing target in the treatment of sickle cell disease and in the design of safe and effective oxygen therapeutics.

Providence nighttime bracing is effective in treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis even in curves larger than 35°.

Since 2006, the Providence nighttime brace has been used for a conservative treatment for scoliosis. Previous studies comparing the outcomes after full-time bracing and nighttime bracing have reported a comparable outcome with curves < 35°. The aim of this study was to report the outcome after treatment in a cohort of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients, with curves between 20° and 45°. METHODS: One hundred and twenty-four patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were included in this study with Cobb > 20°, remaining growth potential and no previous scoliosis treatment. Providence nighttime treatment, 8 h nightly, was initiated. Treatment was continued until 2 years post-menarcheal for females and until 6-month growth arrest for males. The patients were evaluated using standing radiographs during treatment and 6 and 12 months after termination of bracing. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-four patients were included; 80 patients terminated brace treatment and were available for follow-up. Mean in-brace correction was 82%, and curve progression was observed in 9 patients. Brace treatment was success full in 89% of the patients, 88% of the patients braced with curves 20°-29°, 93% of the patients braced with 30°-39° and 77% of the patients braced with curves 40°-45°. Five of the 80 AIS patients were referred to surgery: 4 due to progression and 1 due to cosmetic concerns. CONCLUSIONS: Providence nighttime braces are an effective treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients. This study reports a success rate of 89%, and the results are comparable to full-time treatment with the Boston brace. In-brace correction is crucial in part-time bracing, and we recommend at least 70% curve correction, if part-time bracing should be considered. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Nighttime bracing with the Providence thoracolumbosacral orthosis for treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A retrospective consecutive clinical series.

BACKGROUND:: Orthotic treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is a mainstay in nonoperative treatment to prevent progressive spinal deformity. OBJECTIVE:: To determine the effectiveness of the Providence orthosis in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. STUDY DESIGN:: Retrospective review. METHODS:: Patients treated with a Providence orthosis for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included the following: age of 10-18 years; curve magnitude of 25°-40°; Risser stage of 0-2; and, if female, <1 year post menarche at the time of brace initiation. Failure was defined as curve magnitudes progressing >5° or to >45° or surgery. Radiographs and clinical information were recorded and compared between treatment success and failure cohorts. RESULTS:: 56 patients (51 female and 5 male; average of 12.26 years) were identified with average of 2.21-year follow-up and a 57.1% success rate for preventing curve progression. Factors associated with successful treatment included curve apex T10 and caudal and Risser sign ⩾ 1. Multivariate analysis identified Risser ⩾ 1 and curve apex T10 and caudal as independent predictors of successful treatment. CONCLUSION:: The Providence nighttime orthosis can be an effective treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Curve Apex at T10 or caudal was an independent predictors of treatment success. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study identifies variables associated with treatment success using the Providence nighttime orthosis in a consecutive series of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients. This information provides the foundation for identifying ideal patients for nighttime bracing to guide clinical treatment.

Ghost Attack: The East Providence Carbon Monoxide Mass Casualty Incident.

A routine call for a common medical emergency was expeditiously identified by the responding emergency medical service as a multiple victim carbon monoxide exposure. The event circumstances, exemplary fire department emergency medical services response, and ensuing hos- pital emergency department response are described. [Full article available at http://rimed.org/rimedicaljournal-2018-02.asp].

Voluntarist theology and early-modern science: The matter of the divine power, absolute and ordained.

This paper is an intervention in the debate inaugurated by Peter Harrison in 2002 when he called into question the validity of what has come to be called 'the voluntarism and early-modern science thesis'. Though it subsequently drew support from such historians of science as J. E. McGuire, Margaret Osler, and Betty-Joe Teeter Dobbs, the origins of the thesis are usually traced back to articles published in 1934 and 1961 respectively by the philosopher Michael Foster and the historian of ideas Francis Oakley. Central to Harrison's critique of the thesis are claims he made about the meaning of the scholastic distinction between the potentia dei absoluta et ordinata and the role it played in the thinking of early-modern theologians and natural philosophers. This paper calls directly into question the accuracy of Harrison's claims on that very matter.

Biomechanical Assessment of Providence Nighttime Brace for the Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

STUDY DESIGN: Biomechanical study of the Providence brace for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). OBJECTIVES: To model and assess the effectiveness of Providence nighttime brace. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Providence nighttime brace is an alternative to traditional daytime thoracolumbosacral orthosis for the treatment of moderate scoliotic deformities. It applies three-point pressure to reduce scoliotic curves. The biomechanics of the supine position and Providence brace is still poorly understood. METHODS: Eighteen patients with AIS were recruited at our institution. For each patient, a personalized finite element model (FEM) of the trunk was created. The spine, rib cage, and pelvis geometry was acquired using simultaneous biplanar low-dose radiographs (EOS). The trunk surface was acquired using a three-dimensional surface topography scanner. The interior surface of each patient's Providence brace was digitized and used to generate an FEM of the brace. Pressures at the brace/skin interface were measured using pressure sensors, and the average pressure distribution was computed. The standing to supine transition and brace installation were computationally simulated. RESULTS: Simulated standing to supine position induced an average curve correction of 45% and 48% for thoracic and lumbar curves, while adding the brace resulted in an average correction of 62% and 64% (vs. real in-brace correction of 65% and 70%). Simulated pressures had the same distribution as measured ones. Bending moments on apical vertebrae were mostly annulled by the positioning in the supine position, and further overcorrected on average by 10% to 13%, but in the opposite direction. CONCLUSIONS: The supine position is responsible for the major part of coronal curve correction, while the brace itself plays a complementary role. Bending moments induced by the brace generated a rebalancing of pressure on the growth plates, which could help reduce the asymmetric growth of the vertebrae. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Promises, Promises.

Presenting a pledge to another establishes expectation in the recipient for the commitment to be fulfilled, particularly when a promise is devoid of coercion. Defaulting on a commitment may damage relationships between people and may predispose the disenchanted recipient to distrust those who proffer succeeding commitments. God's advocates who have been disappointed by God's evident under-delivery may experience a crisis of faith, exemplified in attachment distress, when disappointment intimates God has over-promised his providence, which questions the nature and, ultimately, the relevance of God.

Crouania pumila sp. nov. (Callithamniaceae: Rhodophyta), a new species of marine red algae from the Seaflower International Biosphere Reserve, Caribbean Colombia / Crouania pumila sp. nov. (Callithamniaceae: Rhodophyta), una nueva especie de alga roja marina de la Reserva Internacional de la Biosfera Seaflower, Caribe colombiano

In the Colombian Caribbean, the marine macroalgal flora of the Seaflower International Biosphere Reserve has been little studied, despite its ecological importance. Historical records have reported only 201 macroalgae species within its area of almost 350 000km². However, recent surveys have shown a diversity of small algae previously overlooked. With the aim to determine the macroalgal diversity in the Reserve, we undertook field surveys in different ecosystems: coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky and sandy substrates, at different depths, from intertidal to 37m. During these field surveys, we collected a small described species belonging to the genus Crouania (Callithamniaceae, Rhodophyta), Crouania pumila sp. nov. that is decribed in this paper. This new species was distinguished from other species of the genus by a distinctive suite of traits including its diminutive size (to only 3.5mm in length), its decumbent, slightly calcified habit (epiphytic on other algae), its ramisympodial branching, the ecorticate main axes, and the elongate shape of the terminal cells of the cortical filaments. The observations were provided for both female (cystocarpic) and tetrasporangiate thalli; however, male thalli were not seen. Further studies have to be undertaken in this Reserve in order to carry out other macroalgal analysis and descriptions.

Crouania pumila sp. nov. (Ceramiaceae, Rhodophyta) es descrita para la isla de Providencia, en el Caribe colombiano. La nueva especie se destaca de las otras especies del género por características como su tamaño diminuto (hasta 3.5mm de largo), su hábito decumbente y poco calcificado (epífita sobre otras algas), su ramificación ramisimpodial, la ausencia de corticación y la forma alargada de las células terminales de los filamentos corticales. Se proveen observaciones sobre talos femeninos (cistocárpicos) y tetraspóricos. No se observaron talos masculinos.

Zhuzhiqunzheng, the Jesuit translation of Western medicine and its influence on Korean and Chinese intellectuals / 의사학

The Jesuits were great transmitters of Western science to East Asia in the 17th and 18th century. In 1636, a German Jesuit missionary Johann Adam Schall von Bell (1591-1666) published a book titled Zhuzhiqunzheng (Hundreds of Signs Testifying Divine Providence). The book was not Adam Schall's own writing, but it was the Chinese translation of De providentia numinis (1613) of Leonardus Lessius (1554-1623) who was also a Jesuit scholar. The book was a religious work which particularly aimed at converting the pagans to the Christianity by presenting them with hundreds of signs testifying the divine providence. One group of the signs is those manifested in the human body. The bodily signs in question include anatomical structures and physiological processes. It gives a brief survey of bodily structures with bones and muscles. The translator had much difficulties in explaining muscles for there was no corresponding concept in Chinese medicine. The theory of human physiology was a simplified version of medieval Galenism. Three kinds of pneuma were translated into three kinds of Qi respectively. 'Natural pneuma' was translated into 'Qi of the body nature', 'vital pneuma' into 'Qi of life and nourishing', 'psychic pneuma' into 'Qi of movement and consciousness'. The book of Schall von Bell and other books on Western science written in Chinese were also imported to Korea during the 17th and 18th century. Unlike China, Korea was very hostile to Christianity and no Jesuit could enter Korea. Only the books on Western science could be imported. The books, which were called Books on Western Learning, were circulated and read among the progressive Confucian literati. However, Western medicine thus introduced had little influence on the traditional medicine of East Asia. However, some intellectuals paid attention to the physiological theory, in particular the theory of brain centrism, which fueled a philosophical debate among Korean intellectuals of the time.

'Very sore nights and days': the child's experience of illness in early modern England, c.1580-1720.

Sick children were ubiquitous in early modern England, and yet they have received very little attention from historians. Taking the elusive perspective of the child, this article explores the physical, emotional, and spiritual experience of illness in England between approximately 1580 and 1720. What was it like being ill and suffering pain? How did the young respond emotionally to the anticipation of death? It is argued that children's experiences were characterised by profound ambivalence: illness could be terrifying and distressing, but also a source of emotional and spiritual fulfillment and joy. This interpretation challenges the common assumption amongst medical historians that the experiences of early modern patients were utterly miserable. It also sheds light on children's emotional feelings for their parents, a subject often overlooked in the historiography of childhood. The primary sources used in this article include diaries, autobiographies, letters, the biographies of pious children, printed possession cases, doctors' casebooks, and theological treatises concerning the afterlife.

PRIMER REGISTRO DE Pteridium caudatum (DENNSTAEDTIACEAE) EN LA ISLA DE PROVIDENCIA, COLOMBIA / First Record of Pteridium caudatum (DENNSTAEDTIACEAE) in Old Providence Island, Colombia

Se registra la presencia del helecho invasor Pteridium caudatum (L.) Maxon en la isla de Providencia, Colombia. La especie ha sido encontrada como planta decorativa en jardines y patios, así como naturalizada en El Pico, la localidad boscosa con mejor estado de conservación de la isla. Se discuten las implicaciones ecológicas relativas a la presencia de esta especie.

We report for the first time the presence of the invasive fern Pteridium caudatum (L.) Maxon Old Providence Island, Colombia. The species was found as an ornamental plant in house backyards, as well as in the wild in the locality The Peak, the best preserved area of the island. We discuss the ecological implications associated to the presence of this species.