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Considerations For Assigned Water After Expiration Of The 2007 Guidelines, Kathryn Sorensen, Sarah Porter, Anne Castle, John Fleck, Eric Kuhn, Jack Schmidt, Katherine Tara

The Traveling Wilburys of the Colorado River

As Colorado River supplies and demands reach razor-thin margins, new tools to provide adaptive capacity will play a critical role in sustaining communities across the West. We must reduce our consumption of water, while finding ways to cushion the impact. One of the most innovative tools for doing this, developed over the last two decades, is “Assigned Water” - giving users the ability to store conserved water earmarked for their own future use. Originally developed as “Intentionally Created Surplus” in the 2007 Colorado River Interim Guidelines, Assigned Water has been revised and expanded through U.S. Mexico Treaty Minutes and as …

Issue No. 124 Spring 2026

La Crónica de Nuevo México

Table of Contents

2 A Letter from the President

3 Building U.S. Highway 66 by Sherry Robinson

12 La Bajada: A nightmare for Model Ts and trepid tourists by Richard Melzer

20 Black Range Highway by Joseph Britton

24 Commemorating Route 66 at the New Mexico History Museum by Keri M. Schroeder

27 New Books

Unm Pathology, Pathfinder Winter 2026, Unm Department Of Pathology

Newsletters

No abstract provided.

Connected Care: An Interprofessional Education Approach To Strengthen Rural Maternal And Child Healt, Diana Gonzales-Pacheco, Felina Ortiz, Tammy Thomas

HSC Education Days

No abstract provided.

It’S Showtime! Concussion Management Strategies For Clinicians Working With Performing Artists, Allyssa Memmini, Kristen Schuyten, Paola Savvidou

HSC Education Days

No abstract provided.

“We’Re All In The Struggle Together”: The Experiences Of First-Generation Graduate Students During Covid-19, Rebecca Stallworth, Danielle E. Maurici-Pollock, Jade Obler, Rachel A. Starr

Publications

This study explores the experiences of first-generation graduate students (FGGS) during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically the positive and negative impacts of the pandemic on their learning experiences and their implications for the design of online graduate programs that foster a sense of belonging.

Designing Library Materials And Programming To Enhance Hsc Author Visibility, Will White

HSC Education Days

No abstract provided.

Root To Rise: Whole Health Centered Leadership For The Future Physician, Alisa Illescas

HSC Education Days

No abstract provided.

Comparing Microgrids With Nuclear Energy: Which Is Better To Catapult New York Toward Its Green Energy Future?, Justin R. Ochs

Natural Resources Journal

This Note examines New York’s climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) by comparing two pivotal energy solutions: nuclear energy and microgrids. Microgrids remain notably underexplored in legal scholarship, particularly their potential to achieve compliance with the CLCPA. By analyzing the economic, environmental, regulatory, and public perception challenges associated with nuclear energy and microgrids, this Note argues that microgrids offer a safer, more flexible, and sustainable option for accelerating New York’s path toward its green energy future. This Note evaluates microgrid projects across New York, along with common critiques regarding the scalability and viability of hybrid …

Off-Label Abuse: The Prosecution Of Individuals For Pesticide Crimes Under The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, And Rodenticide Act, Joshua Ozymy, Melissa Jarrell Ozymy

Natural Resources Journal

When individuals commit pesticide crimes involving significant harm or culpable conduct, they may be prosecuted for criminal violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), but we have little knowledge of how individual offenders have been prosecuted historically for such crimes. Using content analysis of 2,728 environmental crime prosecutions resulting from U.S. EPA criminal investigations, 1983 to 2021, we select all cases of individuals prosecuted under FIFRA for our analysis. We find that 100 cases were adjudicated, resulting in 135 years of probation, 75 years of incarceration, and $4.2 million in monetary penalties assessed at sentencing. Of those …

Distal Adding-On As A Complication Of Posterior Spinal Fusion In Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Scoping Review Of Contemporary Evidence, Hussein Hashem, Hassan Abou Adma, Joseph Hayek, Ali Rezazadeh Shirazi, Karim Gaber, Waleed Kishta

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Distal adding-on (DAO) is a complication of spinal fusion characterized by postoperative deformity progression distal to the fusion construct. DAO after posterior spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is variably defined and inconsistently managed. This scoping review synthesizes evidence on DAO detection, management, and outcomes. A PRISMA-ScR–guided search identified relevant studies. Thirty-one studies (2,998 patients; median follow-up, 30 months) met inclusion criteria. Reported DAO incidence ranged from 3.5% to 62.5%, reflecting heterogeneity in definitions, patient factors, surgical constructs, and follow-up duration. Revision surgery was infrequent and typically delayed. When performed, it was most often prompted by progressive coronal decompensation …

Infection Rates In Gunshot-Related Hand Fractures Treated Nonoperatively, T. Kyle Summers, Ian Garrison, Matthew C. Watterson, Brandon Barnes, Charles Rodriguez-Feo

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Background: Firearm-associated injuries in the U.S. represent a major public health crisis, contributing substantially to major levels of morbidity, mortality, and economic stress. Recommendations for the management of gunshot-related hand fractures remain limited, particularly in low-velocity injuries, and current guidance often leaves treatment decisions to the discretion of the operating surgeon. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed to identify phalangeal and metacarpal fractures at a Level I trauma center from 2017 to 2023, resulting in 579 patients. Only fractures resulting from firearm injuries were included, resulting in 56 patients. Infection rates were observed in patients treated nonoperatively and those treated …

Increased Mortality And Reduced Survival In Nonagenarians With Hip Fractures: Implications For Geriatric Care, Roman Austin, Julio Avila, Audrey Wassef, Kate Parker, Katherine Gavin

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Background: Hip fractures in nonagenarians (patients aged ≥ 90 years) are becoming increasingly common as the population ages, yet outcomes in this group remain poorly characterized. This study compared in-hospital mortality and survivorship at three months, six months, and one year after hip fracture surgery in nonagenarians with a younger elderly cohort aged 65 years to 89 years. Secondary outcomes included fracture characteristics, surgical management, and discharge disposition. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients who underwent hip fracture surgery at a single Level I Trauma Center from August 2019 to December 2021. Patients were grouped into nonagenarians …

Massive Upper Extremity Neurofibroma Treated With Limb-Sparing Debulking: A Case Report, Danielle Cummings, Tomas Holy, Nathan Morrell

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Surgical management of neurofibromas in Neurofibromatosis type 1 (Von Recklinghausen’s disease), can be challenging because tumor size, location, hypervascularity, and tissue friability pose the risk for significant intraoperative and postoperative blood loss. Despite these risks, surgery is often necessary because of functional losses or cosmetic concerns. The authors present a 31-year-old woman with a massive neurofibroma on her right distal forearm, wrist, and hand, who ultimately underwent surgical resection because of functional impairment of her hand. She required postoperative hospitalization and blood transfusion for management of acute blood loss anemia. Because of concerns regarding blood loss and surgical morbidity, the …

Median Nerve Intraneural Hematoma As An Intraoperative Finding During Carpal Tunnel Release: A Case Report, Ana Silva, Gil Gonrtre, Nikalus Skipp, Ana Love, Deana Mercer

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common compressive neuropathy and typically progresses slowly. Intraoperatively, flexor tenosynovitis, nerve edema, or hourglass deformity may be observed. In rare cases, acute compression symptoms occur due to mass effect on the nerve. Intraneural hematoma of the median nerve is uncommon and has been reported primarily in acute CTS cases associated with trauma. This report describes an 87-year-old patient with a history of mild CTS who underwent carpal tunnel release due to worsening symptoms. After the initial incision, a thickened flexor retinaculum, an hourglass deformity of the median nerve, and an intraneural hematoma were …

Proximal Iliotibial Band Rupture In A 74-Year-Old High-Level, Female Athlete: A Case Report, Jeremiah M. Langsfeld, Joseph Esquibel, Dustin L. Richter

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

A 74-year-old female endurance athlete presented with progressive pain over the left proximal and lateral hip distal to the iliac crest. Symptoms developed over three weeks, impairing weightbearing. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a high-grade tear of the proximal iliotibial band at its iliac crest insertion. The patient was treated nonoperatively and returned to high-level, asymptomatic competition three months after symptom onset. This case offers a nonoperative approach to the rare presentation of a proximal iliotibial band rupture.

Arthroscopic Treatment Of Extensive Synovial Chondromatosis Of The Knee: A Case Report, Gaurav Singh, Bhavna Singh, Rebecca Peebles, Justin Bartley

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Synovial chondromatosis (SC) is a rare, benign monoarticular disorder characterized by intra-articular cartilaginous loose bodies resulting from synovial metaplasia, most commonly affecting the knee. The authors present the case of a 44-year-old man with progressive, debilitating left knee pain, mechanical symptoms, and functional limitations unresponsive to conservative treatment. Radiographs were unremarkable, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multifocal noncalcified intra-articular bodies consistent with SC. The patient underwent arthroscopic debridement of the knee with limited synovectomy. Intraoperative findings included innumerable intra-articular cartilaginous loose bodies throughout the knee, synovial proliferation, and grade II chondromalacia. At three months postoperatively, the patient had regained …

Fibula Strut Allograft With Proximal Tibia Autograft For Treatment Of Humerus Nonunion: A Case Report And Review Of Oligotrophic Nonunion Management, Paul Wilson, Naomi Kelley, Samer Kakish

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Due to their high incidence and frequent need for reoperation, nonunions of the humerus present a significant challenge in orthopaedics. Using fibular struts to treat nonunions have demonstrated excellent results. While fibular autografts provide both biologic and structural benefit, high donor site morbidity must be considered. Although their application in midshaft humeral nonunions remains limited, fibular allografts avoid donor site morbidity. Enhancing fibular strut allografts with biological components offers a promising strategy for treating fractures that have failed prior revisions. This case study presents a 36-year-old woman with an aseptic oligotrophic midshaft humeral nonunion who had an unsuccessful revision surgery. …

Popliteus Interposition In Metaphyseal Tibial Fractures: The Radiographic Clues That Cannot Be Missed, Lucca Gontijo Giarola, Paulo De Tarso Cardoso Gomes, Robinson Esteves Dos Santos Pires, Guilherme Moreira Abreu E Silva, Marco Antônio Percope De Andrade, Túlio Vinícius De Oliveira Campos

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

High-energy proximal tibia fractures present significant challenges for orthopaedic surgeons, with well-recognized risks including malreduction and nonunion. Although double plating through two mini-open parallel incisions is an established technique for selected patients, nonuion can still occur. One potential contributing factor is entrapment of the popliteus muscle within the distal spike of the posteromedial plateau fragment. This report uses illustrative cases to demonstrate how to identify, address, and prevent this complication. Strategies for managing delayed cases that progress to nonunion are also discussed

Iterative Design And Implementation Of A Two Semester Pre-Doctoral Fellowship Writing Course For Biomedical Sciences Phd Students, Kathryn Frietze, Brooke Hafer, Isabella Romano

HSC Education Days

No abstract provided.

Front Matter, Arianna Medina

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

No abstract provided.

Back Matter, Arianna Medina

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

No abstract provided.

21st Century Perspective On The Changing Pattern Of Nerve Injuries From Gunshot Wounds In The U.S., Thomas A. Decoster

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Gunshot wounds (GSWs) with nerve injuries in the 21st century differ significantly from those reported in the 20th century. The vast majority are now low-velocity civilian injuries, in contrast to high-velocity military injuries previously reported. The rate of nerve injury in civilian GSWs is approximately 5%, compared with the 30% reported in military cohorts. However, the most common pattern of nerve injury in the current civilian population is neurotmesis and partial neurotmesis, in contrast to the majority axonotmesis of the military cohorts. In the 20th century, treatment generally consisted of watchful waiting for signs of spontaneous recovery over three months …

Full Issue, Arianna Medina

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

No abstract provided.

Peripheral Nerve Repair And Reconstruction: Current Techniques, Adjuncts, And Emerging Therapies, Niklaus Skipp, Lana Dokic, Christina Wassef, Jazzlyn Gonzalez, Ana Love, Heather Mercer, Deana Mercer

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Peripheral nerve injuries require reconstruction when direct, tension-free repair is not possible. A range of reconstructive strategies are used to restore continuity and promote axonal regeneration, including graft-based reconstruction, nerve transfers, conduit-based repair, supercharged end-to-side augmentation, and emerging regenerative therapies. Autologous interfascicular nerve grafts and vascularized grafts remain established techniques, whereas processed nerve allografts provide a donor-sparing alternative. Nerve transfers are increasingly used for proximal injuries with long regeneration distances, and conduits are an option for gaps shorter than 5 mm. Nerve-wrapping techniques are used to reduce perineural scarring and preserve gliding in complex or revision cases. Emerging adjunctive therapies, …

The Effect Of Institutional Reputation On Clerkship Grades, Jerry Speight Grimes

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Background: Clinical rotation scores have been reported to predict resident performance. However, the reporting of clerkship grades varies widely across institutions. The authors explored the correlation of an institution’s reputation and the percentage of students receiving honors. Methods: During the review of applicants for orthopaedic residency, the percentage of students receiving the highest grade in the surgery and internal medicine clerkships was recorded for each institution. The authors then compared published institutional rankings with the proportion of students awarded honors in these clerkships. Results: One hundred nineteen institutions were reviewed. There was poor correlation between the institutional rankings by U.S. …

Analysis Of Patient Factors That Predict Early Restoration Of Neutral Dorsiflexion After Achilles Tendon Rupture, W. Chad Elliott, Alvin Ouseph, Alexander Abraham, Jerry Speight Grimes

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Background: Achilles Tendon Rupture (ATR) is a common musculoskeletal injury with an increasing incidence in the United States. Early functional rehabilitation is a key component of improving patient outcomes, and restoration of range of motion is a common threshold for progression to strengthening. Neutral ankle dorsiflexion represents an important early milestone in ATR recovery. This study aimed to assess which patient factors were associated with achieving this early rehabilitation milestone. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 70 patients who sustained ATR and were treated at an academic center. Demographics, baseline characteristics, and common ATR risk factors were collected. The …

Insertion Of An Internal Joint Stabilizer Through A Posterolateral Approach For The Management Of Complex Elbow Instability, Miguel A. Pirela-Cruz, Nikalus Skipp, Ana Love, Deana Mercer, Jazzlyn Gonzalez

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Background: Complex elbow fracture-dislocations represent a substantial surgical challenge. Achieving adequate stability while permitting early postoperative motion is essential to prevent stiffness. The internal joint stabilizer (IJS) has emerged as an alternative to hinged external fixation, providing internal dynamic stabilization with improved patient tolerance and reduced risk of soft-tissue complications. Although the IJS is commonly inserted through a lateral approach, injuries involving multiple anatomical structures may necessitate broader exposure. Purpose: To describe the surgical technique for IJS insertion through a posterolateral approach (PLA) for complex elbow injuries involving multiple anatomical structures. Methods: The PLA provides extensile exposure to the posterior, …

Exploring The Interaction Between Cranial Nerves V And Vii In Chronic Eyelid Myokymia: A Case Report, Karina Miramontes, Adam Walsh, Tomas Tafoya

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Eyelid myokymia involves involuntary contractions of the orbicularis oculi muscle and is commonly associated with stress, fatigue, and craniocervical factors. Emerging evidence suggests that altered trigeminocervical interactions and craniomandibular muscle tension may contribute to symptom persistence; however, the condition remains underrecognized in physical therapy. This report describes a 65-year-old woman with chronic benign eyelid myokymia and cervical pain who completed 12 physical therapy sessions that included suboccipital functional dry needling, temporomandibular soft-tissue mobilization (STM), and cervical stabilization exercises. A reduction in eyelid myokymia was first observed at the fifth visit, coinciding with the initiation of temporomandibular STM. These findings suggest …

Prosthetic Knee Joint Infection Caused By Gemella Morbillorum, Nataly Echevarria-Castro, Shaleen Duhra, Leonor Echevarria

Western Journal of Orthopaedics

Gemella morbillorum is a gram-positive coccus found in the gastrointestinal tract, and is an uncommon cause of human infections, including prosthetic joint infections (PJI). Reported risk factors include immunosuppression, recent gastrointestinal procedures, and poor dental hygiene. This report describes a case of knee PJI caused by G. morbillorum, likely due to hematogenous seeding following a colonoscopy three months earlier. The patient is a 70-year-old man with well-controlled diabetes mellitus who had undergone total knee arthroplasty three years prior. He presented with three weeks of left knee swelling. Synovial fluid culture revealed G. morbillorum. The patient was treated with debridement, antibiotics, …