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The distance from tree legumes in silvopastoral systems modifies the litter in grass-composed pastures
- Amanda Maria Gallindo dos Santos, Jose Carlos Batista Dubeux, Jr, Mércia Virginia Ferreira dos Santos, Suellen Brandão de Miranda Costa, Diego de Lima Côelho, Erick Rodrigo da Silva Santos, Naligia Gomes de Miranda e Silva, Bárbara Marcélia Martins de Oliveira, Valéria Xavier de Oliveira Apolinário, Janerson José Coelho
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- The Journal of Agricultural Science , First View
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 08 April 2024, pp. 1-8
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The use of silvopastoral systems with tree legumes is a viable alternative to recover and develop pastures, as they add N to the system influencing pasture growth. This study hypothesized that the herbage and litter of signalgrass (Urochloa decumbens Stapf) is affected by legume trees in the pasture. Treatments were composed of (1) signalgrass + Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth.; (2) signalgrass + Gliricidia sepium Jacq.; and (3) signalgrass monoculture. The 3-year experiment followed a randomized complete block design with three replications. Tree legumes were planted in double rows (15 × 1 × 0.5 m), in 1 ha paddocks. Litter samples were taken in five distance points (0, 1.8, 3.7, 5.6 and 7.5 m) perpendicular to tree legume rows. Signalgrass was taller at longer distances from the trees (P < 0.05). Signalgrass height differed between treatments, with taller signalgrass found in pastures mixed with G. sepium (15.6 cm) compared to M. caesalpiniifolia (9 cm) (P < 0.05). Herbage N content decreased with increasing distance from tree rows (P < 0.05). Litter N content followed a similar pattern, ranging from 23 g/kg under the trees to 12 g/kg at 7.5 m away from tree rows. Signalgrass did not grow under the tree crown (0–1.8 m), especially when intercropped with M. caesalpiniifolia. The findings of this study suggest that the type of legume trees used in the silvopastoral system has the potential to modify the pattern of grass growth and content of N in pasture litter.
Influence of Nonstoichiometry and the Presence of Maghemite on the Mössbauer Spectrum of Magnetite
- G. M. da Costa, E. de Grave, P. M. A. De Bakker, R. E. Vandenberghe
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- Clays and Clay Minerals / Volume 43 / Issue 6 / December 1995
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 28 February 2024, pp. 656-668
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Several samples of large- and small-particle magnetite (Fe3O4), as well as its thermal decomposition products formed at different temperatures and atmospheres, have been studied extensively by Mössbauer spectroscopy (MS), both with and without an applied field of 6T. Synthetic mixtures of magnetite and poorly- or well-crystallized maghemite have also been studied. Large-particle magnetite (MCD > 200 nm), when heated in air for 12 hours at T < 400°C, transforms to a mixture of well-crystallized hematite and magnetite, the latter one remaining stoichiometric, according to the relative area-ratios obtained from MS. Thermal treatment at 1300°C in a controlled O2 partial pressure, produced a mixture of stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric magnetite, but the latter component seems to be composed of particles with different degrees of nonstoichiometry. The Mössbauer spectra of the decomposition products at T < 200°C in air of small-particle magnetite (MCD ~ 80 nm) could be successfully interpreted as a mixture of magnetite and maghemite, rather than nonstoichiometric magnetite. This suggestion is further supported by the experiments with the synthetic mixtures. It is clearly demonstrated that is not possible, even by applying a strong external field, to separate the contribution of the A-site of magnetite from that of maghemite.
The Center Shift in Mössbauer Spectra of Maghemite and Aluminum Maghemites
- G. M. Da Costa, E. De Grave, L. H. Bowen, R. E. Vandenberghe, P. M. A. De Bakker
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- Clays and Clay Minerals / Volume 42 / Issue 5 / October 1994
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 28 February 2024, pp. 628-633
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Synthetic, relatively well-crystallized aluminum-substituted maghemite samples, γ-(Aly·Fe1−y)2O3, with y = 0, 0.032, 0.058, 0.084, 0.106 and 0.151 have been studied by X-ray diffraction and zero-field Mössbauer spectroscopy in the range 8 K to 475 K, and also with an external field of 60 kOe at 4.2 K and 275 K. It was found that there are two different converging models for fitting the zero-field spectra of the maghemites with a superposition of two Lorentzian-shaped sextets, both resulting in inconsistent values for the hyperfine fields (Hhf) and/or the center shifts (δ) of the tetrahedral (A) and octahedral (B) ferric ions. From the applied-field measurements it is concluded that there is a constant difference of 0.12 ± 0.01 mm/s between δB and δA, regardless of the Al content. For the Al-free sample the center shifts are found as: δA = 0.370 mm/s and δB = 0.491 mm/s at 4.2 K and δA = 0.233 mm/s and δB = 0.357 mm/s at 275 K (relative to metallic iron), with an estimated error of 0.005 mm/s. Both δA and δB are observed to decrease with increasing Al concentration. The effective hyperfine fields for the non-substituted maghemite sample are: Heff,A = 575 kOe and Heff,B = 471 kOe at 4.2 K and Heff,A = 562 kOe and Heff,B = 449 kOe at 275 K, with an error of 1 kOe. The B-site hyperfine field remains approximately constant with Al substitution, while for the A site a slight decrease with increasing Al content was observed.
Quantification and Characterization of Maghemite in Soils Derived from Volcanic Rocks in Southern Brazil
- Antonio Carlos S. da Costa, Jerry M. Bigham, Fred E. Rhoton, Samuel J. Traina
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- Clays and Clay Minerals / Volume 47 / Issue 4 / August 1999
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 28 February 2024, pp. 466-473
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Many soils developed from volcanic rocks in southern Brazil exhibit spontaneous magnetization caused by the presence of fine-grained maghemite (γ-Fe2O3), but few attempts were made to quantify or characterize this important soil component. To that end, clays were separated from freely drained soils derived from acid (≥63% SiO2), intermediate (54–62% SiO2), and basic (≤53% SiO2) igneous rocks produced by the Paraná flood volcanism. The sample set included soils with a wide range of pedogenic development on different landscape positions. The Fe oxide mineralogy of these samples was examined by using a combination of selective dissolution, magnetic susceptibility, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Hematite and maghemite were the primary Fe oxides in mature soils (Oxisols, Ultisols, and Alfisols) developed from basic rocks; whereas goethite was dominant in all other soils, especially those formed from acid-intermediate rocks. The association of maghemite with basic rock materials suggests that it was primarily formed by oxidation of lithogenic magnetite. A strong, positive correlation (R2 = 0.89) was obtained between mass specific magnetic susceptibility (χ) of the clay fractions and maghemite contents estimated by XRD. Either method could be used for quantitative analyses, but χ was more sensitive than XRD at low maghemite concentrations (<2 wt. %). The clay-sized maghem-ites were superparamagnetic with an estimated value for the mass specific magnetic susceptibility (χlf) value of 91,000 × 10−8 m3 kg−1 and frequency dependent variations of 10–15%. The maghemites also had low unit cell constants, which, if attributed entirely to replacement of Fe by Al, would correlate with Al substitutions in the range of 5–16 mole %. Selective dissolution of the soil maghemites was achieved by treatment of Fe oxide concentrates with 1.8 M H2SO4 at 75°C for 2 h.
57Fe Mössbauer Effect Study of Al-Substituted Lepidocrocites
- E. De Grave, G. M. da Costa, L. H. Bowen, U. Schwertmann, R. E. Vandenberghe
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- Clays and Clay Minerals / Volume 44 / Issue 2 / April 1996
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 28 February 2024, pp. 214-219
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Seven Al-containing lepidocrocite samples, γ-Fe1−xAlxOOH, prepared from FeCl2/Al(N03)3 solutions with initial Al/(Al + Fe) mole ratios Ci of 0.0025, 0.01, 0.025, 0.05, 0.075, 0.10 and 0.15 mol/mol, were examined by means of Mössbauer spectroscopy at room temperature (RT) and at various temperatures in the range of 8 to 80 K. The spectra at RT and 80°K consist of broadened quadrupole doublets and were analyzed in terms of a single doublet and of a model-independent quadrupole-splitting distribution, the latter yielding the best fit. The observed variations of the quadrupole-splitting parameters with increasing Ci are inconclusive as to whether the Al cations are substituting into the structure. The temperature at which the onset of magnetic ordering is reflected in the spectra, was measured by the thermoscan method with zero source velocity. A gradual shift from 50 K for Ci = 0.0025 mol/mol to 44 K for Ci = 0.10 mol/mol was observed for that temperature. As compared to earlier studies of Al-free γ-FeOOH samples with similar morphological characteristics, the fractional doublet area in the mixed sextet-doublet spectra at 35 K is significantly higher for the present lepidocrocites. This observation is ascribed to the substitution of Al cations into the lepidocrocite structure. A similar conclusion is inferred from the variation with Ci of the maximum-probability hyperfine field derived from the spectra recorded at 8 K and fitted with a model-independent hyperfine-field distribution. The magnetic results suggest that for the sample corresponding to Ci = 0.15 mol/mol, not all of the initially present Al has been incorporated into the structure.
Iron Oxides in a Soil Developed from Basalt
- A. T. Goulart, J. D. Fabris, M. F. de Jesus Filho, J. M. D. Coey, G. M. da Costa, E. de Grave
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- Clays and Clay Minerals / Volume 46 / Issue 4 / August 1998
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 28 February 2024, pp. 369-378
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A dusky red Oxisol forming on a tholeiitic basalt is found to contain varying proportion of aluminous hematite (Hm) and titanoaluminous maghemite (Mh) in the different size fractions. Maghemite is the main iron oxide in the sand and silt fractions whereas Hm is dominant in the clay fraction, together with gibbsite (Gb), kaolinite (Ka), rutile (Rt) (and probably anatase, An) and Mh. Maghemite is also the major oxide mineral in the magnetic separates of soil fractions (sand, about 65% of the relative Mössbauer spectral area; silt, 60%). Hematite (sand, 30%; silt, 15%) and ilmenite (Im) (sand, 5%; silt, 16%) are also significantly present in the magnetic extract. Accessory minerals are Rt and An. No magnetite (Mt) was detected in any soil fraction. Sand- and silt-size Mh have similar nature (a 0= 0.8319 ± 0.0005 nm; about 8 mol% of Al substitution; saturation magnetization of 49 J T−1 kg−1), and certainly a common origin. Lattice parameters of clay-Mh are more difficult to deduce, as magnetic separation was ineffective in removing nonmagnetic phases. Al content in Hm varies from 14 mol% (clay and silt) to 20 mol% (sand). The proposed cation distribution on the spinel sites of the sand-size Mh is:
(◻ = vacancy, [ ] = tetrahedral sites and { } = octahedral sites), with a corresponding molar mass of 208.8 g mol−1. The predicted magnetization based on this formula is σ ≅ 68 J T−1 kg−1, assuming collinear spin arrangement. The large discrepancy with the experimentally determined magnetization is discussed.
Variable-Temperature Mössbauer Spectroscopy of Nano-Sized Maghemite and Al-Substituted Maghemites
- G. M. Da Costa, E. De Grave, L. H. Bowen, P. M. A. De Barker, R. E. Vandenberghe
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- Clays and Clay Minerals / Volume 43 / Issue 5 / October 1995
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 28 February 2024, pp. 562-568
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Synthetic aluminum-substituted maghemite samples, γ-(Fe1-xAlx)2O3, have been prepared by thermal decomposition of Al-lepidocrocite (γ-Fe1-xAlxOOH), with × = 0, 0.04, 0.06, 0.14 and 0.18. The particles are needle-shaped and the mean crystallite diameter along the [311] crystallographic direction was found to be between 2.0 and 5.0 nm. Mössbauer spectra were collected at 6 K and from 80 K up to 475 K at steps of 25 K. In a wide range of temperatures the spectra of the non-substituted sample consist of a superposition of a broad sextet and a superparamagnetic doublet, whereas for the Al-maghemites this range is much smaller. From the temperature variation of the fractional doublet area two different parameters were defined: the temperature corresponding to a 50/50 doublet-sextet spectrum (T1/2), and the temperature below which the doublet ceases to exist (T0). These two parameters (T1/2 and T0) decrease from 390 K and 92 K (Al-free sample), to 118 K and 64 K (4 mole % Al) and to 100 K and 48 K (18 mole % Al), respectively. The average hyperfine fields at 6 K undergo a steep drop in going from the Al-free sample (Hhf = 506 kOe) to the sample with 4 mole % Al (Hhf = 498 kOe), but for higher substitutions the effect is much smaller. The A- and B-site quadrupole splittings, obtained from the data between 220 K and 475 K, were found as: ΔEQ,A = 0.86 ± 0.04 mm/s and ΔEQ,B = 0.65 ± 0.04 mm/s for the 4 mole % Al sample. The characteristic Mössbauer temperature, determined from the temperature dependence of the average isomer shift, was found to be in the range of 500–600 K.
Somatic multicomorbidity and disability in patients with psychiatric disorders in comparison to the general population: a quasi-epidemiological investigation in 54,826 subjects from 40 countries (COMET-G study)
- Konstantinos N. Fountoulakis, Grigorios N. Karakatsoulis, Seri Abraham, Kristina Adorjan, Helal Uddin Ahmed, Renato D. Alarcón, Kiyomi Arai, Sani Salihu Auwal, Michael Berk, Sarah Bjedov, Julio Bobes, Teresa Bobes-Bascaran, Julie Bourgin-Duchesnay, Cristina Ana Bredicean, Laurynas Bukelskis, Akaki Burkadze, Indira Indiana Cabrera Abud, Ruby Castilla-Puentes, Marcelo Cetkovich, Hector Colon-Rivera, Ricardo Corral, Carla Cortez-Vergara, Piirika Crepin, Domenico De Berardis, Sergio Zamora Delgado, David De Lucena, Avinash De Sousa, Ramona Di Stefano, Seetal Dodd, Livia Priyanka Elek, Anna Elissa, Berta Erdelyi-Hamza, Gamze Erzin, Martin J. Etchevers, Peter Falkai, Adriana Farcas, Ilya Fedotov, Viktoriia Filatova, Nikolaos K. Fountoulakis, Iryna Frankova, Francesco Franza, Pedro Frias, Tatiana Galako, Cristian J. Garay, Leticia Garcia-Álvarez, Maria Paz García-Portilla, Xenia Gonda, Tomasz M. Gondek, Daniela Morera González, Hilary Gould, Paolo Grandinetti, Arturo Grau, Violeta Groudeva, Michal Hagin, Takayuki Harada, Tasdik M. Hasan, Nurul Azreen Hashim, Jan Hilbig, Sahadat Hossain, Rossitza Iakimova, Mona Ibrahim, Felicia Iftene, Yulia Ignatenko, Matias Irarrazaval, Zaliha Ismail, Jamila Ismayilova, Asaf Jakobs, Miro Jakovljević, Nenad Jakšić, Afzal Javed, Helin Yilmaz Kafali, Sagar Karia, Olga Kazakova, Doaa Khalifa, Olena Khaustova, Steve Koh, Svetlana Kopishinskaia, Korneliia Kosenko, Sotirios A. Koupidis, Illes Kovacs, Barbara Kulig, Alisha Lalljee, Justine Liewig, Abdul Majid, Evgeniia Malashonkova, Khamelia Malik, Najma Iqbal Malik, Gulay Mammadzada, Bilvesh Mandalia, Donatella Marazziti, Darko Marčinko, Stephanie Martinez, Eimantas Matiekus, Gabriela Mejia, Roha Saeed Memon, Xarah Elenne Meza Martínez, Dalia Mickevičiūtė, Roumen Milev, Muftau Mohammed, Alejandro Molina-López, Petr Morozov, Nuru Suleiman Muhammad, Filip Mustač, Mika S. Naor, Amira Nassieb, Alvydas Navickas, Tarek Okasha, Milena Pandova, Anca-Livia Panfil, Liliya Panteleeva, Ion Papava, Mikaella E. Patsali, Alexey Pavlichenko, Bojana Pejuskovic, Mariana Pinto Da Costa, Mikhail Popkov, Dina Popovic, Nor Jannah Nasution Raduan, Francisca Vargas Ramírez, Elmars Rancans, Salmi Razali, Federico Rebok, Anna Rewekant, Elena Ninoska Reyes Flores, María Teresa Rivera-Encinas, Pilar Saiz, Manuel Sánchez de Carmona, David Saucedo Martínez, Jo Anne Saw, Görkem Saygili, Patricia Schneidereit, Bhumika Shah, Tomohiro Shirasaka, Ketevan Silagadze, Satti Sitanggang, Oleg Skugarevsky, Anna Spikina, Sridevi Sira Mahalingappa, Maria Stoyanova, Anna Szczegielniak, Simona Claudia Tamasan, Giuseppe Tavormina, Maurilio Giuseppe Maria Tavormina, Pavlos N. Theodorakis, Mauricio Tohen, Eva Maria Tsapakis, Dina Tukhvatullina, Irfan Ullah, Ratnaraj Vaidya, Johann M. Vega-Dienstmaier, Jelena Vrublevska, Olivera Vukovic, Olga Vysotska, Natalia Widiasih, Anna Yashikhina, Panagiotis E. Prezerakos, Daria Smirnova
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- Journal:
- CNS Spectrums / Volume 29 / Issue 2 / April 2024
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 25 January 2024, pp. 126-149
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Background
The prevalence of medical illnesses is high among patients with psychiatric disorders. The current study aimed to investigate multi-comorbidity in patients with psychiatric disorders in comparison to the general population. Secondary aims were to investigate factors associated with metabolic syndrome and treatment appropriateness of mental disorders.
MethodsThe sample included 54,826 subjects (64.73% females; 34.15% males; 1.11% nonbinary gender) from 40 countries (COMET-G study). The analysis was based on the registration of previous history that could serve as a fair approximation for the lifetime prevalence of various medical conditions.
ResultsAbout 24.5% reported a history of somatic and 26.14% of mental disorders. Mental disorders were by far the most prevalent group of medical conditions. Comorbidity of any somatic with any mental disorder was reported by 8.21%. One-third to almost two-thirds of somatic patients were also suffering from a mental disorder depending on the severity and multicomorbidity. Bipolar and psychotic patients and to a lesser extent depressives, manifested an earlier (15–20 years) manifestation of somatic multicomorbidity, severe disability, and probably earlier death. The overwhelming majority of patients with mental disorders were not receiving treatment or were being treated in a way that was not recommended. Antipsychotics and antidepressants were not related to the development of metabolic syndrome.
ConclusionsThe finding that one-third to almost two-thirds of somatic patients also suffered from a mental disorder strongly suggests that psychiatry is the field with the most trans-specialty and interdisciplinary value and application points to the importance of teaching psychiatry and mental health in medical schools and also to the need for more technocratically oriented training of psychiatric residents.
Comparative analysis of diagnostic methods and risk factors for Aelurostrongylus abstrusus infection in brazilian cats
- R. Fagundes-Moreira, E. Silveira, V. Baggio-Souza, S.M.T. Marques, S.B. Vidor, S.M. de Jezus Castro, A. Spanamberg, L.C. Henker, S.P. Pavarini, J.F. Soares, F.V.A. da Costa
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- Journal of Helminthology / Volume 97 / 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 11 December 2023, e91
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This study aimed to prospectively evaluate the risk factors of infection by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in Brazilian cats with cough and/or radiographic changes, using as diagnostic tools the Baermann method (BM), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of feces, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and cytology. Forty-three cats that were presented with cough or lung radiographic abnormalities compatible with bronchoalveolar disease were included in the study. After clinical evaluation, feces samples were collected to investigate lungworm parasitism through BM and PCR. BALF was performed to provide samples for cytology, bacteriology, and fungal culture. Stool PCR was considered the gold standard for diagnosis tests, and the other methods were evaluated by their agreement. PCR presented 74% (32/43) of positivity for A. abstrusus, while in the BM, 41% (18/43) were positive. BM showed sensitivity of 56.25% and specificity of 100% when compared with PCR. No larva was found in the cytological evaluation of 21 BALF samples. Lungworm is an important cause of bronchopulmonary disease in domestic cats in Brazil and should be included as a differential diagnosis when a cat is presented with cough or radiographic abnormalities. BM is a sensitive, non-invasive, and cheap technique to diagnose the disease, but it is not as sensitive as PCR.
Effects of different diets on Aedes aegypti adults: improving rearing techniques for sterile insect technique
- Aynoanne Leandro Barbosa, Glayciane Costa Gois, Verenna Barros dos Santos, Aline Taiane de Macedo Pinto, Bianca Pires de Castro Andrade, Lucas Barbosa de Souza, Fernanda Hohana Almeida e Sá, Jair Fernandes Virginio, Mário Adriano Ávila Queiroz
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- Journal:
- Bulletin of Entomological Research / Volume 113 / Issue 6 / December 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 25 September 2023, pp. 748-755
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The aim was to evaluate the effect of different energy diets available in adulthood on the longevity, dispersal capacity and sexual performance of Aedes aegypti produced under a mass-rearing system. To evaluate the effects of diets in relation to the survival of the adult male insects of Ae. aegypti, six treatments were used: sucrose at a concentration of 10%, as a positive control (sack10); starvation, as a negative control (starvation); sucrose at a concentration of 20% associated with 1 g/l of ascorbic acid (sac20vitC); wild honey in a concentration of 10% (honey10); demerara sugar in a 10% concentration (demerara10); and sucrose at a concentration of 20% associated with 1 g/l of ascorbic acid and 0.5 g/l of amino acid proline (sac20vitCPr). Each treatment had 16 cages containing 50 adult males. For the tests of flight ability and propensity to copulation, five treatments were used (saca10; sac20vitC; mel10; demerara10; and sac20vitCPr), with males each for flight ability and females copulated by a single male for copulation propensity. The diet composed of sucrose at a concentration of 20% associated with ascorbic acid, as an antioxidant, improved the survival, flight ability and propensity to copulate in Ae. aegypti males under mass-rearing conditions, and may be useful to enhance the performance of sterile males, thus improving the success of sterile insect technique programmes.
Water use efficiency and yield responses of Cenchrus purpureus genotypes under irrigation
- R. E. P. Ribeiro, A. C. L. Mello, M. V. Cunha, M. V. F. Santos, S. B. M. Costa, J. J. Coelho, R. O. Carvalho, V. J. Silva
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- The Journal of Agricultural Science / Volume 161 / Issue 4 / August 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 07 September 2023, pp. 572-580
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In tropical regions, water stress is one of the main causes of the reduction in forage productivity, and irrigation strategies can mitigate the problem, especially for highly productive species. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of irrigation, genotype and plant size on productive responses and water use efficiency (WUE) of elephant grass (Cenchrus purpureus [Schumach.] Morrone), in the rainy and dry season. The experimental design was randomized in blocks, arranged in split plots, the main plots were established based on the use of irrigation and the subplots were the tall-sized genotypes (IRI 381 and Elephant B) and dwarfs (Taiwan A-146 2.37 and Mott). The genotypes were evaluated for two years and harvested every 60 days. Water use efficiency, total forage accumulation per year and harvest, forage accumulation rate and forage density were evaluated. There was a significant difference between the genotypes in terms of total forage accumulated (P < 0.05). The most productive genotype was IRI 381, which showed the greatest total forage accumulation (42 168 kg of DM/ha in two years) in the irrigated plots. During the rainy seasons, IRI 381 stood out in terms of forage accumulated (24 667 kg of DM/ha). Irrigation favoured increases in forage accumulation around 60%, in both years of evaluation. Irrigation and plant size influenced the productivity and WUE of elephant grass harvested in 60-day intervals. Tall genotypes and Taiwan A-146 2.37 (dwarf size) stood out in most of the productive traits analysed, while Mott was highlighted by its forage density.
Night-time/daytime Protein S100B serum levels in paranoid schizophrenic patients
- E. Diaz-Mesa, A. Morera-Fumero, L. Torres-Tejera, A. Crisostomo-Siverio, P. Abreu-Gonzalez, R. Zuñiga-Costa, S. Yelmo-Cruz, R. Cejas-Mendez, C. Rodriguez-Jimenez, L. Fernandez-Lopez, M. Henry-Benitez
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- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, pp. S445-S446
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Introduction
S100B is a calcium-binding astrocyte-specific cytokine, that is considered a biomarker of neurodegeneration; which may be involved in the imbalance of the inflammatory response observed in several brain disorders, including major depression and schizophrenia. Two meta-analyses have reported higher serum levels of S100B in patients with schizophrenia respect to healthy controls.
Different studies have described circadian and seasonal variations of biological variables, such as melatonin or cortisol. It has been reported that there is not circadian rhythm of S100B blood levels in healthy subjects. However, it is not known whether there are circadian oscillations in S100B blood concentrations in patients with schizophrenia.
ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to describe S100B serum levels in patients with schizophrenia and to analyse whether they follow a circadian rhythm.
MethodsOur sample consists in 47 patients in acute phase and stabilized status. Blood samples were collected at 12:00 and 00:00 hours by venipuncture. Serum levels of Protein S100B were measured three times: at admission, discharge and three months after discharge. Protein S100B was measured by means of ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) techniques.
Results12:00 24:00 P ADMISSION 132,95±199,27 85,85±121,44 0,004 DISCHARGE 73,65±71,744 75,80±123,628 0,070 CONTROL 43,49±34,60 40,14±23,08 0,47 P global P Admission Vs. Discharge P Admission Vs. Control P Discharge Vs. Control 0,97 There is a significance difference between 12:00 and 24:00 at admission for the Protein S100B.However, these difference did not occur at discharge and at three months after discharge.It can be interpreted as there is a circadian rhythm of Protein S100B when the patient has got a psychotic outbreak and disappears at discharge and when is psychopathologically stable.
ConclusionsWith respect to our results we can hypothesize that schizophrenic patients in acute relapse present circadian S100B rhythm that is not present when the patients are clinically stable.Furthermore, the decrease of serum protein S100B levels at discharge is indicative of a reduction of the cerebral inflammation, thus it can be a biomarker of cerebral inflammation and this reduction can be the effect of the treatment. Finally, its circadianity could be a guide of this process and clinical improvement.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Off-label use of atypical antipsychotics- Where are we?
- R. P. Vaz, J. Martins, A. L. Costa, J. Brás, R. Sousa, E. Almeida, J. Abreu, N. Castro, R. Andrade, N. Gil
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S305
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Introduction
Nowadays, In the exercise of psychiatric clinical activity, the prescription of atypical antipsychotics is a widespread practice.
However, despite the approval in the treatment of psychoses and bipolar affective disorder, where its effectiveness is clearly demonstrated, these drugs are off-label prescribed in most of the clinical situations.
ObjectivesThis work aims to clarify which atypical antipsychotics are most frequent prescribed and the clinical conditions where their off-label prescription is more common.
MethodsBibliographic research in the Pubmed® database using the terms “atypical antipsychotics and off-label use”
ResultsAccording to the scientific literature consulted, the off-label prescription of atypical antipsychotics may represent about 70% of the total prescription of these psychotropic drugs.
Risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine and aripiprazole are the most off-label prescribed among the atypical antipsychotics.
The psychiatric conditions where atypical antipsychotics are most often off-label prescribed are addictive disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, eating disorders, insomnia and dementia, where therapeutic benefits are demonstrated when carefully selected.
ConclusionsThe off-label prescription can be interpreted from two points of view. On the one hand, it can guide innovation in clinical practice and improve symptoms in patients who do not respond to standard treatments. On the other hand, it may be associated with negative consequences due to the lack of data on safety and efficacy in these situations.
Despite widespread prescribing of atypical antipsychotics, there is no evidence-based recommendation beyond psychoses and bipolar affective disorder.
Thus, when prescribed, we must proceed with careful monitoring and consider the risks and benefits in relation to off-label prescription.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Knocking on the Doors of Perception: the role of psilocybin in substance use disorder treatment
- R. Sousa, L. Costa, J. Brás, R. Vaz, J. Martins, J. Abreu, E. Almeida, N. Castro, R. Andrade, N. Cunha
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S270
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Introduction
Substance use disorders(SUDs) are a major health concern and current treatment interventions have proven only limited success. Despite increasing effectiveness, still about 50–60% relapse within 6–12 months after treatment [Cornelius et al., Addict Behav. 2003;28 381-386]. SUDs are defined as chronic disorders of brain reward system, motivation, and memory processes that have gone awry. Medication reducing craving and substance use is mainly available for alcohol dependence and to a lesser extent for other substances.
Hallucinogens may represent a group of agents with potential anti-craving properties subsequently reducing substance use in SUD patients. For instance, lysergic acid diethylamide(LSD) and psilocybin have previously been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms of alcohol and nicotine dependence.
ObjectivesNew treatments preferably focusing on reducing craving and subsequent substance use are therefore urgently needed. The hallucinogen psilocybin may provide a new treatment option for SUD patients, given the beneficial results observed in recent studies
MethodsSystematic revision of literature.
ResultsIn the 1950s, a group of drugs with potential to alter consciousness were discovered (hallucinogens). Several studies suggested their anti-SUD potential, improving self-acceptance and interpersonal relationships, reducing craving and alcohol use. As a result of its recreational popularity during the 1960s, they were banned in 1967, greatly hampering scientific research in this field. Recently, psilocybin, an hallucinogenic substance in psilocybin-containing mushrooms has gained popularity in neuropsychological research, showing to increase trait openness, cognitive and behavioral flexibility, and ratings of positive attitude, mood, social effects, and behavior and even reported persistent positive changes in attitude and behavior. These findings might suggest a valuable compound for the treatment of psychiatric conditions with several additional studies providing supportive evidence for the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for SUD treatment and relapse prevention.
ConclusionsWith the reported limited amount of side effects and potential beneficial effects of psilocybin in SUD, there are valid reasons to further investigate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of psilocybin as a potential SUD treatment. On the one hand, psilocybin may exert its anti-addictive properties by beneficial effects on negative emotional states and stress. On the other hand, psilocybin may improve cognitive inflexibility and compulsivity. Research on the efficacy of psilocybin on SUD is still limited to a handful of published studies to date. As a result, many important questions related to the use of psilocybin as a complement to current treatment of SUD and its working mechanisms remain unanswered. Before psilocybin can be implemented as a treatment option for SUD, more extensive research is needed.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Suicide among physicians: what do we know about it?
- R. P. Vaz, J. Martins, A. L. Costa, J. Brás, R. Sousa, E. Almeida, J. Abreu, N. Castro, R. Andrade, N. Gil
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, pp. S1115-S1116
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Introduction
The prevalence of mental illness has increased worldwide over the past few years. At the same time, and even in the sense, there is also an increase in suicide rates with special incidence in certain risk groups, among which health professionals stand out.
In this particular group, physicians seem to represent a class particularly vulnerable by the stress and demand associated with it, but also by access and knowledge about potentially lethal means.
For this very part, they have a higher risk of suicide than the general population.
ObjectivesThis paper aims to better understand the phenomenon of suicide among physicians and identify which medical specialties are most vulnerable.
MethodsBibliographic research in the Pubmed® database using the terms “suicide and physicians”.
ResultsThe data obtained from the scientific literature consulted indicate that physicians have a higher risk of suicide than the general population, with greater emphasis on females who have higher rates compared to males.
Work factors that translate into higher levels of demand and stress combined with easy access and knowledge about the use of potentially lethal means seem to contribute very significantly to this phenomenon. Perfectionist personality traits with a high sense of responsibility and duty are also important characteristics that place these professionals in a position of greater vulnerability.
With regard to the different medical specialties, anesthesiology, psychiatry and general and family medicine are the ones with higher suicide rates among the medical class.
ConclusionsThe risk of suicide, although admittedly high in the medical class, is not homogeneous among different countries, being naturally influenced by the satisfaction/gratification obtained in the performance of their profession. In this sense, countries such as Switzerland and Canada show higher levels of professional satisfaction. In the opposite direction, dissatisfaction in the exercise of clinical activity is associated with higher levels of fatigue and burnout.
Medical women, due to the need to combine the responsibility of family tasks with professional responsibility, are at greater risk.
In this sense, it is necessary to develop strategies that are more appropriate for the prevention and early identification of suicide risk situations that can be experienced not only by improving working conditions but also by better addressing professionals suffering from mental disorders.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Suicidality among inpatients - Right under our noses
- A. S. Morais, F. Martins, V. Henriques, P. Casimiro, N. Descalço, R. Diniz Gomes, N. Cunha e Costa, S. Cruz
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, pp. S1106-S1107
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Introduction
An inpatient suicide is a tragic event that, despite not very prevalent, should not be overlooked. It occurs in 250 in 100 000 psychiatric hospital admissions (which represents a suicide risk fifteen times greater than general population) and in 1.7-1.9 in 100 000 in general hospitals (4-5 times greater risk). Together they constitute 5-6% of all suicides.
ObjectivesThe purpose of the authors is to explore the epidemiology, the risk factors and the prevention of suicide in inpatient setting.
MethodsA brief non-systematized review is presented, using the literature available on PubMed and Google Scholar.
ResultsThe risk was higher at admission (first week) and immediately after discharge (first 24 hours, up to two weeks).
It was found to be correlated to pour staffing, an increased number of patients with severe mental illnesses and accessibility to lethal means. Many risk factors were identified, some of them specific to context. Risk Factors at admission in a psychiatric hospital – personal or familiar suicide history, schizophrenia or mood disorder, alcohol use, involuntary admission, living alone, absence from the service without permission. Later till discharge - personal suicide history (or attempts after admission), relational conflicts, unemployment, living alone, lack of discharge planning and lack of contact in the immediate post-discharge period. In General Hospitals – chronicity and severity of somatic disease, poor coping strategies, psychiatric comorbidities and lack of liaison psychiatry.
Strategies to prevent inpatient suicide should take in environmental modification (specific to environment and specific to patient – as planned levels of supervision), optimisation of the care of the patients at suicidal risk, staff education and involvement of families in care. There are few studies on the efficacy of pharmacotherapy on reducing suicidal ideation in inpatients (just for clozapine and ketamine); some psychotherapies show promising results. The post-suicide approach cannot be neglected, whether in supporting the family, the team involved and even other patients.
ConclusionsThe assumption of the predictive and preventive value of the risk assessment has been under scrutiny. Depressed mood and a prior history of self-harm are well-established independent risk factors for inpatient suicide; however they lose their predictive value due to their high prevalence. Up to 70% of inpatients who committed suicide didn’t express suicidal ideation on the previous interviews. Most effective measures to prevent suicide are environmental modifications and staff education approaches, giving appropriate responses to each patient’s circumstances.
There is a paucity of literature on suicide in this setting. It should become a priority in national programs of Suicide Prevention.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Psychosis in Parkinson’s Disease: a Case Report of Diagnosis and Management
- R. P. L. Andrade, N. P. Gil, A. L. Costa, J. Brás, N. Castro, R. Sousa, R. P. Vaz, J. Martins, E. Almeida, J. Abreu, H. Afonso
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S1085
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Introduction
Psychosis is a frequent complication in patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Characterized mainly by visual hallucinations and paranoid delusions, it occurs most frequently, but not exclusively, as an adverse effect of antiparkinson medications. Nevertheless, cognitive impairment and dementia, as a frequent feature of PD, needs to be considered for differential diagnosis.
ObjectivesOur main objective is to report a case of PD Psychosis, its diagnosis and management and complement it with a non-systematic review of literature.
MethodsPatient file consultation and an additional research, based on the key words “Psychosis” and “Parkinson’s Disease”, using Pubmed as database.
ResultsA 53-year-old female, diagnosed with Juvenile Parkinson’s Disease since age 45 and, as expected, polimedicated with antiparkinson medication. Without any relevant psychiatric background, she was admitted to the emergency department for disorganized behaviour, with 2 weeks of evolution. There, it was also possible to determine the presence of auditive hallucinations and persecutory delusions, associated with marked anguish.
After exclusion of any underlying cause for this symptomatology, inpatient treatment was proposed and accepted by the patient. In collaboration with the Neurology Department, a gradual reduction and optimization of antiparkinson drugs was conducted, associated with introduction of low doses of antipsychotic drugs, in this case Olanzapine. With this medication adjustments, clinical improvement was accomplished, with eventual fading and cessation of psychotic symptoms. Additionally, an irregularly intake of antiparkinson drugs was considered the most probably cause of this clinical decompensation.
ConclusionsAs present in literature, due to the chronicity and complexity of PD, stopping all antiparkinson drugs is not an option, even when psychotic symptoms, that could be a consequence of these drugs, are present. Therefore, a rigorous evaluation and management are mandatory, including the exclusion of other underlying causes and a careful therapeutic adjustment, with gradual reduction of antiparkinson drugs, addressing an eventual temporal relationship between the beginning of a specific drug and the onset of symptoms, and verification of therapeutic compliance, including an involuntary overdose. In cases of refractory symptoms, and after a risk-benefit assessment, pharmacologic treatment directed at these symptoms, low doses of anti-psychotics, may be necessary.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
A Challenging Sexsomnia Seen as a Deceptive Case of Depression
- J. Brás, M. Meira e Cruz, C. Teixeira, R. Andrade, A. P. Costa
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S1103
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Introduction
Sleep related sexual behaviors or sexsomnias are unconscious behavioral activities that occur during sleep (e.g. parasomnias). Behaviors could range from sexual vocalizations, orgasms, sexualized movements, masturbation, or full sexual intercourse with a subsequent amnesia. Early epidemiological studies showed a prevalence of 7.1%, with a male predominance. While intended as a rare condition, leads to important physical and psychological consequences for both the patient and their bed partner. For our knowledge this is the first case of sexsomnia reported in Portugal.
ObjectivesTo report the clinical and psychosocial impact of a Sexsomnia case in a young woman which was misdiagnosed with depression.
MethodsPatient´s clinical files consultation and literature review using Pubmedâ and the keywords: sexsomnia.
ResultsA 18-year-old female referred to a psychiatric consultation to be assessed and treated from a diagnostic of depressive disorder. This was a young woman with a previous history of sleepwalking during childhood, with no recurrent episodes since adolescence. A familiar positive history for sleepwalking was confirmed (mother). She reported the beginning of her sleep related sexual behavior six months before the consultation, conflicting with the moment in which she started pharmacological therapy for Chron Disease, diagnosed at that time.
After she slept with her boyfriend, she was told by him about the recurrence of masturbatory activity during sleep. These episodes were told to occur as often as 1 to 2 times a night, shortly after falling asleep, with posterior amnesia for the event.
As for medical or psychiatric history, only Chron’s disease is highlighted, being under control with azathioprine. Likewise, he took 1mg of melatonin/night.
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index at presentation was 7/21 and the STOP-Bang questionnaire revealed a low risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
A Type I Polysomnographic study was performed revealing decreased sleep efficiency and fragmented sleep presenting an alternating cyclic pattern. The existence of significant respiratory events during sleep, as well as periodic movements, was excluded.
Cognitive behavioral therapy by means of highlighting the need of improvement on sleep hygiene measures was prescribed and the dose of melatonin was increased up to 3mg. Despite the good clinical response, the patient discontinued the melatonin treatment mainly due to familiar and personal reasons and failed to comply with the prescribed hygienic measures, with a further worsening of the clinical condition.
ConclusionsThis particularly challenging case representing the emerging medicolegal issues and psychosocial aspects related with the still poorly understood sleep disorders like sexomnia, shows up how much awareness is required from psychiatric team members to better assist and refer patients, promoting both an assertive diagnostic and an effective management.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees - a new scientific peer-reviewed Journal in Psychiatry
- F. Santos Martins, M. J. Santos, L. Afonso Fernandes, D. Cavaleri, M. Pinto da Costa, N. Žaja, K. Markin, L. Tomašić, H. Ryland, J. D King, L. E Stirland, A. Seker
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, pp. S1118-S1119
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Introduction
Psychiatry training programs vary in the degree to which they offer trainees with an opportunity to get involved in research. Exposure to research during the training period is critical, as this is usually when trainees start their own scientific research projects and gain their first experiences in academic publishing.
ObjectivesWe present the European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees (EJPT) (ejpt.scholasticahq.com), the official journal of the European Federation of Psychiatric Trainees (EFPT), including its scope, mission and vision and practical considerations.
MethodsReflecting on the foundation and operation of the European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees.
ResultsThe European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees is an Open Access, double blind peer-reviewed journal which aims to publish original and innovative research as well as clinical, theory, perspective and policy articles, and reviews in the field of psychiatric training, psychiatry and mental health. Its mission is to encourage research on psychiatric training and inspire scientific engagement by psychiatric trainees. Work conducted by psychiatric trainees and studies of training in psychiatry are prioritized. The journal is open to submissions, and while articles from psychiatric trainees are prioritized, submissions within scope from others are also encouraged. The article processing fee is very low and waivable. It is planned to publish two issues yearly.
The first article was published in July 2022, titled “Fluoxetine misuse by snorting in a teenager: a case report” and it received 218 views as of 17 October 2022, which confirms the journal’s potential for visibility.
ConclusionsThe European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees is a non-profit initiative designed to offer psychiatric trainees a platform to publish and gain experience in publishing. Thanks to its robust double blind peer reviewing system, it has the potential to contribute to scientific excellence.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Postpartum Delirium: A Psychosis Born in the 18th Century
- J. R. Martins, R. Vaz, A. L. Costa, J. Brás, R. Sousa, J. Abreu, E. Almeida, R. Andrade, N. Castro, T. Casanova
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 66 / Issue S1 / March 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 19 July 2023, p. S1128
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Introduction
Pregnancy and childbirth are moments of great vulnerability in a woman’s life, which can predispose her to the development of psychopathology, ranging from transient depressive symptoms (“baby blues”) to psychotic symptoms. Postpartum delirium is the psychiatric syndrome that some authors refer to as puerperal psychosis par excellence. It was first described in the 18th century and were thought to be associated with painful delivery, then became rare after the introduction of effective analgesia.
ObjectivesThe objective of this work is to contribute to a better understanding of this condition, through a literature review.
MethodsBibliographic research using Pubmed® and the keywords: postpartum delirium.
ResultsClinical presentation of postpartum delirium includes: constantly varying degrees of consciousness; perplexity; hallucinations or pseudo-hallucinations of one or more organs of sense; delusions or delusive-type thoughts; great motoric unrest and considerable motoric and verbal abandon; and acute aggressive discharges can also occur. It is thought to be due to organic complications, such as infectious disease, abnormal loss of blood, thrombosis, neurological disease, obstetric disease, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes. An article from 1975 mentions how difficult was to treat postpartum delirium despite the development of psychopharmaceutical therapy. The patients remained psychotic for long periods and had many relapses. They mention a comparative study that found that the symptomatic treatment of this syndrome with a combination of perfenazine and lithium carbonate produced relatively favorable results. For that reason, at that time, it was the medication of choice. Nowadays the psychopharmacological treatment of puerperal psychosis, in general, still consists of the combination of lithium and an antipsychotic, such as haloperidol, and possibly a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam.
ConclusionsPostpartum delirium is rarely mentioned in the literature and just a few cases have been described. It is considered a rare postpartum psychotic condition but would perhaps be less rare if its existence were recognized. On this note, it is important for clinical practice to research on the psychoses of pregnancy and not just the most common.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared