bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the confluence of mesial canals in mandibular molar teeth with three or four root canals
Authors: Furri M.
Published: July 2008

Aim  To investigate the correlation between number of root canals and their confluence in mandibular molar teeth.

Methodology  A total of 553 first and 383 second mandibular molars were root filled between the beginning of 1997 and the end of 2006. Access cavities were prepared and the pulp chamber floors were carefully inspected with an endodontic explorer under magnification of 4×. After negotiating the root canal system, the ‘straightest’ canal of each root was instrumented. A gutta‐percha cone was placed in the canal and a small file (08 or 10) was inserted to working length and then removed in all other canals. The gutta‐percha cone was removed and inspected for notches indicating the presence of confluences. If it was not possible to probe completely one or more canals, the canal confluences were classified as ‘not determined’ (ND) if there was no sign of confluence; if a notch was present canals were considered confluent. For each tooth, the number of root canals and the presence of confluences were recorded. To test whether there was a difference in frequency of confluences between teeth with three and four root canals the chi‐squared analysis with Yates’ continuity correction was performed.

Results  The frequency of a confluence in mesial canals of first molars was 56% in teeth with three root canals and 34% in teeth with four canals. In second molars, it was 67 and 41%, respectively. Differences in the frequency of confluences in teeth with three and four root canals were statistically significant both in first and in second molars.

Conclusions  A greater incidence of confluent canals occurred in teeth with three rather than with four root canals both in first and second mandibular molars.
Phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of different heat‐processed forms of sweetpotato cv. ‘Beauregard’
Authors: Padda Malkeet S. , Picha David H.
Published: July 2008

Sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] cv. ‘Beauregard’ roots were cooked using three different heat‐processing techniques (baked in a conventional oven, baked in a microwave oven, and boiled). Total phenolic content, individual phenolic acids, and antioxidant capacity were determined using Folin‐Denis assay, HPLC (high‐performance liquid chromatography), and DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydazyl) assay, respectively. The skin tissue (raw or processed) contained the highest concentration of total phenolics. All heat‐processing methods resulted in a significant loss in total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of the skin tissue. However, compared with the other processing methods, conventional oven baking resulted in greater losses in antioxidant capacity of skin tissue. Total phenolic content ranged from a low of 1.58 mg chlorogenic acid equivalent g−1 dry tissue weight in boiled pith tissue to a high of 17.7 mg chlorogenic acid equivalent g−1 dry tissue weight in raw skin tissue. The antioxidant capacity was highest in raw skin tissue (22.9 mg Trolox equivalent g−1 dry tissue weight). Chlorogenic acid was the principal phenolic acid found in all sweetpotato tissues. Caffeic acid and three isomers of dicaffeoylquinic acid (diCQA) were also identified and quantified.
Effect of processing technique on energy density and viscosity of cooking banana: implication for weaning foods in Uganda
Authors: Bukusuba John , Muranga Florence Isabirye , Nampala Paul
Published: July 2008

The type and quality of weaning food plays a vital role in the growth and development of children. The high rates of malnutrition reported in banana consuming areas of Uganda reveal the bulkiness and high viscosity of the predominant banana‐based weaning foods. The objective was to determine the impact of processing technique on energy density and viscosity of cooking banana. Part of the unprocessed dried slices was milled into fine flour and the rest extruded. Pre‐gelatinised banana flour was produced using a modified earlier method. Nutrient and energy composition of the flours were determined using standard methods. Data were subjected to one‐way anova/least significant difference test and t‐test using GenStat 5 Release 3.2. Pre‐gelatinisation and extrusion cooking significantly raised energy content of banana significant impact on its viscosity but with extrusion cooking achieving better results. Extrusion cooking and pre‐gelatinisation increase the energy content of cooking bananas and significantly reduces its bulkiness. Soybean and simsim addition will improve protein quality and quantity of banana‐based weaning products.
Effect of high pressure treatments combined with various levels of κ‐carrageenan on cold‐set binding in restructured pork
Authors: Hong Geun‐Pyo , Min Sang‐Gi , Ko Se‐Hee , Choi Mi‐Jung
Published: July 2008

This study investigated the effects of high pressure processing and κ‐carrageenan on cold‐set binding in restructured pork meat. High pressure (>200 MPa) combined with carrageenan level higher than 1.5% caused increased breaking force and tensile strength (P < 0.05). Increasing the pressure level caused a continuous κ‐carrageenan network in the junctions between meat particles, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy imaging. With regard to the water binding properties, all treatments showed moisture content ranging between 74% and 76%. Increases in pressure levels and holding times tended to improve the water‐holding capacity (WHC) of restructured pork; however, the κ‐carrageenan concentration showed no relation with WHC. Cooking loss decreased significantly (P < 0.05) with increases in both pressure level and κ‐carrageenan concentration. By increasing pressure levels, both the L*‐ and a*‐values increased, but the b*‐value showed no significant difference (P > 0.05) among the treatments, with the exception of 100 MPa for 30 min. The addition of κ‐carrageenan had no effect on colour (P > 0.05). Therefore, the results indicate that pressure above 200 MPa and addition of 1.5% carrageenan has potential use in cold‐set meat restructuring.
Women’s descriptions of postoperative pain and pain management after discharge from cardiac surgery
Authors: Leegaard Marit , Fagermoen May Solveig
Published: July 2008

Aim and objectives.  To provide new insights into the postoperative pain experiences of women after coming home following cardiac surgery.

Background.  Studies show that many patients experience postoperative wound discomfort after cardiac surgery and women experience more pain than men before discharge. Male experiences have shaped the accepted biomedical theories on how cardiac surgery influences the lives of women. This has led to more cardiac studies with only female respondents in the past 10 years, but few focus on pain and pain management after early discharge.

Methods.  The study reported here is part of a larger qualitative descriptive study. A self‐developed pain diary measured pain intensity, types and amount of pain medication and its effectiveness at bedtime every day after returning home from hospital. The Brief Pain Inventory – Short Form provided a basis for comparison with the pain scores rated in the diaries from the final sample of nine women. Semi‐structured interviews gave illuminating statements.

Results.  The women had pain in the chest almost every day the first two weeks at home and this was expected. The pain in their neck, shoulders and back was unexpected and this pain worried them more. The women wanted to take as little medication as possible. Regular intake of pain medication resulted in more even pain scores, but not necessarily lower pain scores.

Conclusions.  The study adds new insights into how women experience postoperative pain upon returning home. Findings indicate that the women did not follow the recommended pain medication despite reporting worst pain as moderate or more during the whole period.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Early discharge from hospitals gives patients more responsibility for taking care of themselves. Patients need more specific information about taking pain medication on a specified schedule to control pain.
A systematic review of silver‐releasing dressings in the management of infected chronic wounds
Authors: Lo Shu‐Fen , Hayter Mark , Chang Chee‐Jen , Hu Wen‐Yu , Lee Ling‐Ling
Published: July 2008

Aim.  This paper is a systematic review with the objective of determining the effectiveness of silver‐releasing dressing in the management of infected chronic wounds.

Background.  Chronic wounds exhibit increased bacterial burdens which not only result in a negative physical impact on patients, impairing their quality of life, but also increase treatment costs. Silver dressings are wound products designed to control and inhibit infection and provide a wound environment conducive to healing. However, there is limited evidence on their effectiveness in doing so.

Methods.  A systematic review of literature from 1950–May 2007 was conducted using the PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, MEDLINE, British Nursing Index, EBSCO Host, OCLC, Proquest and PsychInfo databases. The review included randomised or non‐randomised control trials, published in English or non‐English, of silver‐releasing dressings in infected chronic wounds.

Results.  Of the over 1957 potentially releasing studies examined, 14 pertinent articles involving 1285 participants were identified. Almost all the participants reported one or more statistically significant outcomes. The main points to emerge from this review of studies are that silver‐releasing dressings show positive effects on infected chronic wounds. The quality of the trials was limited by the potential for bias associated with inadequate concealment, no detailed description of the outcome measurement and no reported intention‐to‐treat analysis. Moreover, problems existed in some studies with confounding factors.

Conclusion.  The review clearly highlights the need for well‐designed, methodologically standardised outcome measurement research into the effectiveness of silver‐releasing dressings. It also points to the need for a comprehensive assessment of wound bed status in further studies.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This review strengthens the case for the use of silver dressings when managing infected chronic wounds. They appear more effective and are tolerated well by patients. However, their use should be accompanied by a comprehensive wound assessment.
Quality of life in chronic low back pain patients treated with instrumented fusion
Authors: Bentsen Signe Berit , Hanestad Berit Rokne , Rustøen Tone , Wahl Astrid Klopstad
Published: July 2008

Aim.  The aim of this study was to examine pain and quality of life in a group of preoperative chronic low back pain patients (n = 25) and a group of postoperative chronic low back pain patients (n = 101) treated with instrumented fusion 1–8 years ago.

Background.  Reduced quality of life is common in chronic low back pain patients and the aim of treatment is to improve quality of life.

Design.  In the present study, a comparative survey design was used.

Methods.  The McGill Pain Questionnaire and the SF‐36 Health Survey were used to examine pain and quality of life.

Results.  The pre‐ and postoperative groups did not differ with regard to age, gender, education, other chronic conditions or previous spinal surgery. Compared with the preoperative group, the postoperative group reported significantly lower total, sensory, affective and evaluative pain, used less pain medication (p < 0·05) and reported better scores in all SF‐36 components (p < 0·05), except for general health. The effect size was ≥0·8 for all pain components and ≥0·4 for all SF‐36 components, except for general health (effect size = 0·009). With regard to long‐term follow‐up, patients who underwent surgery 5–8 years ago reported better physical role functioning (p < 0·05) compared with those who underwent surgery 1–2 years ago.

Conclusion.  Results showed that the postoperative group reported significantly less pain and better physical and mental health compared with the preoperative group. However, despite surgery, the postoperative group reported suffering from pain and reduced quality of life.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Psychosocial interventions focusing on psychosocial consequences of pain are needed to modify the pain experience and increase the quality of life in patients who have undergone this kind of surgery.
Postoperative pain management – the influence of surgical ward nurses
Authors: Ene Kerstin Wickström , Nordberg Gunnar , Bergh Ingrid , Johansson Fannie Gaston , Sjöström Björn
Published: July 2008

Aim.  To compare pain levels reported by patients with those documented by ward nurses and to find out to what extent the amount of opioids given correlated with the pain level. Secondly, to study if pain management and nurses’ approaches to this task had improved during a two‐year period, including an educational pain treatment program for ward staff.

Background.  The management of postoperative pain continues to remain problematic and unsatisfactory and ward nurses play an important role for this task.

Design.  The study was a cross‐sectional, descriptive, two‐part study based on survey data from both patients and nurses on two urology surgical wards.

Methods.  Part I of the study included 77 patients and 19 nurses. Part II took place approximately two years later and included 141 patients and 22 nurses. Data were collected the day after surgery by asking patients about ‘worst pain’ experienced. The pain scores given by the patients were compared with those documented in the patients’ records and with the doses of opioids administered. Nurses’ approaches to pain management were sought after, by using a categorical questionnaire.

Results.  The nurses’ ability to assess pain in accordance with the patients’ reports had increased slightly after two years even if and the number of documented pain scores had decreased. Forty per cent of the nurses reported that they did not use visual analogue scale and that they did not assess pain at both rest and activity, neither did one fourth evaluate the effect of given analgesics.

Conclusion.  The study showed a discrepancy in pain scoring between nurses and patients, where active treatment was related to nurses’ documentation rather than to patients’ scoring.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The study shows a need for more accurate pain assessment, since the patient experiences and suffers pain and the nurse determines upon treatment.
Effect of nursing interventions on stressors of parents of premature infants in neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Turan Türkan , Başbakkal Zümrüt , Özbek Şenay
Published: July 2008

Aim.  This study was planned for the purpose of determining the effect of stress‐reducing nursing interventions on the stress levels of mothers and fathers of premature infants in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Design.  Randomised intervention.

Background.  The physical and psychosocial environment of the NICU is a major factor in the stress experienced by the family.

Method.  Interviews were conducted with the parents of premature infants who agreed to participate in the research. An approximately 30‐minute educational programme about their infant and the intensive care unit was held for the mothers and fathers in the intervention group within the first week after their infant was admitted to the intensive care unit. Then they were introduced to the unit and personnel. They were given the information they requested and their questions were responded to. The parents in the control group received nothing in addition to the routine unit procedures. The mothers and fathers’ stress scores were measured for both groups after their infants’ 10th day in the NICU with the Parental Stress Scale: NICU (PSS:NICU).

Results.  The difference between the intervention group and the control group mothers’ mean stress score was found to be statistically significant (t = 4·05, p < 0·05). It was determined that the stress scores for the fathers in the treatment group in this research were lower, but the difference between the two groups was not found to be statistically significant (p > 0·05).

Conclusion.  It has been determined that parents experience very high stress levels when their infants are admitted to an NICU and that there are nursing interventions which can be implemented to decrease their levels of stress.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Determining the sources of stress experienced by parents can help NICU nurses use appropriate interventions in cooperation with other members of the team to decrease the stress that parents experience.
Critical care nurses’ decision making: sedation assessment and management in intensive care
Authors: Aitken Leanne M , Marshall Andrea P , Elliott Rosalind , McKinley Sharon
Published: July 2008

Aims.  This study was designed to examine the decision making processes that nurses use when assessing and managing sedation for a critically ill patient, specifically the attributes and concepts used to determine sedation needs and the influence of a sedation guideline on the decision making processes.

Background.  Sedation management forms an integral component of the care of critical care patients. Despite this, there is little understanding of how nurses make decisions regarding assessment and management of intensive care patients’ sedation requirements. Appropriate nursing assessment and management of sedation therapy is essential to quality patient care.

Design.  Observational study.

Methods.  Nurses providing sedation management for a critically ill patient were observed and asked to think aloud during two separate occasions for two hours of care. Follow‐up interviews were conducted to collect data from five expert critical care nurses pre‐ and postimplementation of a sedation guideline. Data from all sources were integrated, with data analysis identifying the type and number of attributes and concepts used to form decisions.

Results.  Attributes and concepts most frequently used related to sedation and sedatives, anxiety and agitation, pain and comfort and neurological status. On average each participant raised 48 attributes related to sedation assessment and management in the preintervention phase and 57 attributes postintervention. These attributes related to assessment (pre, 58%; post, 65%), physiology (pre, 10%; post, 9%) and treatment (pre, 31%; post, 26%) aspects of care.

Conclusions.  Decision making in this setting is highly complex, incorporating a wide range of attributes that concentrate primarily on assessment aspects of care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Clinical guidelines should provide support for strategies known to positively influence practice. Further, the education of nurses to use such guidelines optimally must take into account the highly complex iterative process and wide range of data sources used to make decisions.
Opioid‐taking tasks and behaviours in Taiwanese outpatients with cancer
Authors: Liang Shu‐Yuan , Yates Patsy , Edwards Helen , Tsay Shiow‐Luan
Published: July 2008

Aim.  The aim of this study was to describe those tasks and behaviours that contribute to self‐efficacy in the context of opioid‐taking in Taiwanese outpatients with cancer and to explore those factors that influence a patient’s self‐efficacy with engaging in these behaviours.

Background.  Self‐management with prescribed opioid regimen has become a necessary component of the cancer pain experience at home. Tailoring prescribed regimens is a complex and continuing effort for cancer pain control. Few studies, however, have explored the specific skills and behaviours required by patients to manage their opioid analgesics effectively.

Design.  A qualitative approach was used to explore those behaviours that contribute to patients’ ability to self‐manage medication for their cancer pain.

Method.  Ten Taiwanese cancer patients aged between 41–75 years attending two oncology outpatient departments, who were prescribed opioid analgesics, were interviewed. All interviews were tape‐recorded and were transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis was undertaken to identify categories.

Results.  Five main categories of behaviours were identified, which reflected patient’s perceptions of the actions required for effective opioid‐taking. These behavioural domains included communicating about pain and analgesic‐taking, taking analgesics according to schedule, obtaining help, tailoring medication regimens and managing treatment‐related concerns. In addition, patients described various situations in which performance of these behaviours was more or less difficult.

Conclusions.  Our results suggest that self‐efficacy with opioid‐taking includes not only beliefs about the ability to communicate, but also the ability to fulfil more complex tailoring of medication regimens and management of treatment‐related concerns.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Health professionals need to incorporate strategies to assist cancer patients’ ability to engage in these behaviours and to manage situational impediments that may influence this ability. More importantly, clinicians need to assist patients to enhance their beliefs in their ability in overcoming various situation impediments for opioid‐taking.
The impact and effectiveness of nurse‐led care in the management of acute and chronic pain: a review of the literature
Authors: Courtenay Molly , Carey Nicola
Published: July 2008

Aims and objectives.  To identify, summarise and critically appraise the current evidence regarding the impact and effectiveness of nurse‐led care in acute and chronic pain.

Background.  A diverse range of models of care exist within the services available for the management of acute and chronic pain. Primary studies have been conducted evaluating these models, but, review and synthesis of the findings from these studies has not been undertaken.

Design.  Literature review.

Method.  Searches of Pubmed (NLM) Medline, CINAHL, Web of Knowledge (Science Index, Social Science index), British Nursing Index from January 1996–March 2007 were conducted. The searches were supplemented by an extensive hand search of the literature through references identified from retrieved articles and by contact with experts in the field.

Results.  Twenty‐one relevant publications were identified and included findings from both primary and secondary care. The areas, in which nurses, caring for patients in pain are involved, include assessment, monitoring, evaluation of pain, interdisciplinary collaboration and medicines management. Education programmes delivered by specialist nurses can improve the assessment and documentation of acute and chronic pain. Educational interventions and the use of protocols by specialist nurses can improve patients understanding of their condition and improve pain control. Acute pain teams, led by nurses, can reduce pain intensity and are cost effective.

Conclusions.  Nurses play key roles in the diverse range of models of care that exist in acute and chronic pain. However, there are methodological weaknesses across this body of research evidence and under researched issues that point to a need for further rigorous evaluation.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurse‐led care is an integral element of the pain services offered to patients. This review highlights the effect of this care and the issues that require consideration by those responsible for the development of nurse‐led models in acute and chronic pain.
Immunohistochemical characterization of the innervation of human colonic mesenteric and submucosal blood vessels
Authors: De Fontgalland D. , Wattchow D. A. , Costa M. , Brookes S. J. H.
Published: July 2008

Abstract The aim was to characterize quantitatively the classes of nerves innervating human mesenteric and submucosal vessels. Specimens of uninvolved normal human mesentery and colon were obtained with prior informed consent from patients undergoing elective surgery for bowel carcinoma. Mesenteric and submucosal vessels were processed for double‐labelling immunohistochemical localization of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), neuropeptide Y (NPY), calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), somatostatin (SOM), vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) and enkephelin (ENK), each compared to the pan‐neuronal marker protein gene product 9.5. Branching patterns of individual nerve fibres were investigated usingin vitroanterograde tracing. Sympathetic neurons containing TH and NPY were the largest population, accounting for more than 85% on all vessels. Extrinsic sensory axons, containing SP but not CGRP comprised a second major population on mesenteric vessels: these axons generally lacked TH, NPY and VAChT. On submucosal, but not mesenteric vessels, an additional population of SOM‐immunoreactive fibres was present: these axons did not co‐localize with TH. Major similarities and differences with enteric vessel innervation in laboratory animals were identified. Sympathetic neurons comprise the largest input. Extrinsic sensory neurons in humans largely lack CGRP but contain SP. Submucosal vessels receive an additional source of innervation not present in mesenteric vessels, which contain SOM, but are rarely cholinergic. These results have significant implications for understanding the control of blood flow to the human gut.
Rapid rate magnetic stimulation of human sacral nerve roots alters excitability within the cortico‐anal pathway
Authors: Harris M. L. , Singh S. , Rothwell J. , Thompson D. G. , Hamdy S.
Published: July 2008

Abstract  Sacral nerve root stimulation (SNS) can produce dramatic symptomatic improvement in faecal incontinence (FI). However, the physiological mechanism behind this improvement remains unknown. One hypothesis is that SNS may modulate cortico‐anal pathways and drive compensatory changes within the spinal cord or cerebral cortex that beneficially alter sphincter function. Our aim was to assess whether short‐term experimental SNS can induce changes in the human cortico‐anal pathway. Eight healthy volunteers (mean age 30 years) were studied. Subjects were investigated on three separate occasions and randomized to either active (5 and 15 Hz) or sham rapid‐rate lumbosacral magnetic stimulation (rLSMS). Anal sphincter electromyograms (EMG) were recorded from an anal probe following single‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation, at baseline, immediately, 30 and 60 min following rLSMS at either (i) 5 Hz for 15 min, (ii) 15 Hz for 15 min or (iii) sham stimulation for 15 min. In addition, manometry and anal sphincter sensation was measured in a subset of subjects. Interventions were compared to sham using anova. Fifteen hertz rLSMS increased cortico‐anal EMG response amplitude in the 1 h postintervention (F4, 28 = 3.2, P = 0.027), without a shift in response latency. This effect was not demonstrated with either 5 Hz or sham stimulation. rLSMS had no short‐term effect on sensation or physiology. Short‐term magnetic stimulation of the sacral nerve roots induces changes in cortico‐anal excitability which is frequency specific. These data support the hypothesis that SNS produces some of its beneficial effect in patients with FI by altering the excitability of the cortico‐anal pathway.
Sacral nerve stimulation and rectal function: results of a prospective study in faecal incontinence
Authors: Roman S. , Tatagiba T. , Damon H. , Barth X. , Mion F.
Published: July 2008

Abstract  The mechanisms of action of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) to treat faecal incontinence remain poorly understood. The aims of our study were: (i) to measure the effect of SNS on rectal function and (ii) to evaluate rectal function as a predictive factor of clinical response to SNS. Rectal function was studied before and 3 months after permanent SNS in 18 patients (17 women, mean age 58.5 years) with faecal incontinence, using an electronic barostat. Rectal sensitivity and volume variations were recorded during isobaric distensions. Three months after SNS, 14 patients had a significant improvement of faecal incontience symptoms and four had not. Baseline ‘maximal tolerated volume’ was significantly lower in the positive response group (210 ± 56 vs 286 ± 30 mL, P = 0.02). Baseline rectal compliance was lower in patients with a positive response than those without, although this difference did not reach significance (6.2 ± 3.2 vs 9.2 ± 2.9 mL mmHg−1,P = 0.10). Rectal compliance was not significantly modified by SNS. Our results suggest that an increased rectal capacity as measured by the maximal tolerated volume may be a predictive factor of poor response to SNS in faecal incontinence. SNS does not significantly modify rectal function.
Postnatal and diet‐dependent increases in enteric glial cells and VIP‐containing neurones in preterm pigs
Authors: Van Haver E. R. , De Vooght L. , Oste M. , Sangild P. T. , Thymann T. , Weyns A. L. M. , Van Ginneken C. J.
Published: July 2008

Abstract A mature enteric nervous system (ENS) is required to ensure a normal pattern of intestinal motility in order to regulate digestion after birth. We hypothesized that neuronal and glial components of the ENS would mature during the first postnatal days in preterm pigs that are a sensitive animal model of food intolerance and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Stereological volume densities of the general neuronal population [assessed by βIII‐tubulin immunoreactivity (IR)] and subsets of neuronal (VIP‐IR and nitrergic IR) and glial cells (GFAP‐IR and S100‐IR) were determined in the small intestine of newborn preterm piglets (93% gestation), after 3 days of receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and after 3 days of TPN plus 2 days of enteral feeding with sow’s colostrum or milk formula. Following TPN, VIP in the myenteric and inner submucous plexus and GFAP in the inner submucous plexus increased, while the relative volume of the total neuronal population remained constant. Introduction of enteral food induced variable degrees of food intolerance and NEC, especially after formula feeding, a diet that gave rise to a higher myenteric VIP and GFAP content in the inner submucous plexus than colostrum feeding. However, the ENS seemed unaffected by the presence of NEC‐like intestinal lesions. Nevertheless, this study shows that the ENS is highly plastic during the first days after premature birth and adapts in an age‐ and diet‐dependent manner. The observed postnatal adaptation in enteric VIP and GFAP may help to maintain intestinal homeostasis during suboptimal feeding regimens in preterm neonates.
The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon phenanthrene causes oxidative stress and alters polyamine metabolism in the aquatic liverwort Riccia fluitans L.
Authors: BURRITT DAVID JOHN
Published: July 2008

The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) phenanthrene (PHEN) is a highly toxic pollutant, commonly found in aquatic environments, the effects of which on aquatic plants have not been studied in depth. As PAHs are known to induce oxidative stress and recent studies have shown that polyamines (PAs) participate in the defence reactions protecting plants against environmental stresses, PA metabolism and oxidative damage were investigated in the aquatic form of the liverwort Riccia fluitans L. exposed to PHEN. Exposure of Riccia fluitans plants to PHEN at concentrations of 0.5 µm or less induced oxidative stress, but at a level from which plants could recover. Despite increased levels of enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants, recovery appeared, at least in part, due to increased synthesis of PAs, achieved via increased activities of the enzymes arginine decarboxylase (ADC) and S‐adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC). Chemical inhibition of these enzymes inhibited plant recovery, while treatment with PAs aided recovery. Finally, as chloroplasts and the plasma membrane appeared to be key targets for PHEN‐induced damage, the potential roles of PAs in protecting these cellular components were considered. How PAs could protect plant cells from serious environmental pollutants such as PHEN and could prevent oxidative stress is discussed.
Photosynthetic pathway influences xylem structure and function in Flaveria (Asteraceae)
Authors: KOCACINAR FERIT , MCKOWN ATHENA D. , SAGE TAMMY L. , SAGE ROWAN F.
Published: July 2008

Higher water use efficiency (WUE) in C4 plants may allow for greater xylem safety because transpiration rates are reduced. To evaluate this hypothesis, stem hydraulics and anatomy were compared in 16 C3, C3–C4 intermediate, C4‐like and C4 species in the genus Flaveria. The C3 species had the highest leaf‐specific conductivity (KL) compared with intermediate and C4 species, with the perennial C4 and C4‐like species having the lowest KL values. Xylem‐specific conductivity (KS) was generally highest in the C3 species and lower in intermediate and C4 species. Xylem vessels were shorter, narrower and more frequent in C3–C4 intermediate, C4‐like and C4 species compared with C3 species. WUE values were approximately double in the C4‐like and C4 species relative to the C3–C4 and C3 species. C4‐like photosynthesis arose independently at least twice in Flaveria, and the trends in WUE and KL were consistent in both lineages. These correlated changes in WUE and KL indicate WUE increase promoted KL decline during C4 evolution; however, any involvement of WUE comes late in the evolutionary sequence. C3–C4 species exhibited reduced KL but little change in WUE compared to C3 species, indicating that some reduction in hydraulic efficiency preceded increases in WUE.
Isoprene emissions influence herbivore feeding decisions
Authors: LAOTHAWORNKITKUL JULLADA , PAUL NIGEL D. , VICKERS CLAUDIA E. , POSSELL MALCOLM , TAYLOR JANE E. , MULLINEAUX PHILIP M. , HEWITT C. NICHOLAS
Published: July 2008

Isoprene (C5H8, 2‐methyl 1,3‐butadiene) is synthesized and emitted by many, but not all, plants. Unlike other related volatile organic compounds (monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes), isoprene has not been shown to mediate plant–herbivore interactions. Here, for the first time, we show, in feeding choice tests using isoprene‐emitting transgenic tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacumcv. Samsun) and non‐emitting azygous control plants, that isoprene detersManduca sextacaterpillars from feeding. This avoidance behaviour was confirmed using an artificial (isoprene‐emitting and non‐emitting control) diet. Bothin vivoandin vitroexperiments showed that isoprene can activate feeding avoidance behaviour in this system with a dose–response effect on caterpillar behaviour and an isoprene emission threshold level of <6 nmol m−2 s−1.
Inositol methyl tranferase from a halophytic wild rice, Porteresia coarctata Roxb. (Tateoka): regulation of pinitol synthesis under abiotic stress
Authors: SENGUPTA SONALI , PATRA BARUNAVA , RAY SUDIPTA , MAJUMDER ARUN LAHIRI
Published: July 2008

Methylated inositol D‐pinitol (3‐O‐methyl‐D‐chiro‐inositol) accumulates in a number of plants naturally or in response to stress. Here, we present evidence for accumulation and salt‐enhanced synthesis of pinitol in Porteresia coarctata, a halophytic wild rice, in contrast to its absence in domesticated rice. A cDNA for Porteresia coarctata inositol methyl transferase 1 (PcIMT1), coding for the inositol methyl transferase implicated in the synthesis of pinitol has been cloned from P. coarctata, bacterially overexpressed and shown to be functional in vitro. In silico analysis confirms the absence of an IMT1 homolog in Oryza genome, and PcIMT1 is identified as phylogenetically remotely related to the methyl transferase gene family in rice. Both transcript and proteomic analysis show the up‐regulation of PcIMT1 expression following exposure to salinity. Coordinated expression of L‐myo‐inositol 1‐phosphate synthase (PcINO1) gene along with PcIMT1 indicates that in P. coarctata, accumulation of pinitol via inositol is a stress‐regulated pathway. The presence of pinitol synthesizing protein/gene in a wild halophytic rice is remarkable, although its exact role in salt tolerance of P. coarctata cannot be currently ascertained. The enhanced synthesis of pinitol in Porteresia under stress may be one of the adaptive features employed by the plant in addition to its known salt‐exclusion mechanism.
Host pigments: potential facilitators of photosynthesis in coral symbioses
Authors: DOVE SOPHIE G. , LOVELL CARLI , FINE MAOZ , DECKENBACK JEFFRY , HOEGH‐GULDBERG OVE , IGLESIAS‐PRIETO ROBERTO , ANTHONY KENNETH R.N.
Published: July 2008

Reef‐building corals occur as a range of colour morphs because of varying types and concentrations of pigments within the host tissues, but little is known about their physiological or ecological significance. Here, we examined whether specific host pigments act as an alternative mechanism for photoacclimation in the coral holobiont. We used the coral Montipora monasteriata (Forskål 1775) as a case study because it occurs in multiple colour morphs (tan, blue, brown, green and red) within varying light‐habitat distributions. We demonstrated that two of the non‐fluorescent host pigments are responsive to changes in external irradiance, with some host pigments up‐regulating in response to elevated irradiance. This appeared to facilitate the retention of antennal chlorophyll by endosymbionts and hence, photosynthetic capacity. Specifically, net Pmax Chl a−1 correlated strongly with the concentration of an orange‐absorbing non‐fluorescent pigment (CP‐580). This had major implications for the energetics of bleached blue‐pigmented (CP‐580) colonies that maintained net Pmax cm−2 by increasing Pmax Chl a−1. The data suggested that blue morphs can bleach, decreasing their symbiont populations by an order of magnitude without compromising symbiont or coral health.
Identification and characterization of Cor413im proteins as novel components of the chloroplast inner envelope
Authors: OKAWA KUMIKO , NAKAYAMA KATSUHIRO , KAKIZAKI TOMOHIRO , YAMASHITA TETSURO , INABA TAKEHITO
Published: July 2008

Plastids are surrounded by two membrane layers, the outer and inner envelope membranes, which have various transport and metabolic activities. A number of envelope membrane proteins have been identified by biochemical approaches and have been assigned to specific functions. Despite those efforts, the chloroplast envelope membrane is expected to contain a number of as yet unidentified proteins that may affect specific aspects of plant growth and development. In this report, we identify and characterize a novel class of inner envelope membrane proteins, designated as Cor413 chloroplast inner envelope membrane group (Cor413im). Both in vivo and in vitro studies indicate that Cor413im proteins are targeted to the chloroplast envelope. Biochemical analyses of Cor413im1 demonstrate that it is an integral membrane protein in the inner envelope of chloroplasts. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis reveals that COR413IM1 is more abundant than COR413IM2 in cold‐acclimated Arabidopsis leaves. The analyses of T‐DNA insertion mutants indicate that a single copy of COR413IM genes is sufficient to provide normal freezing tolerance to Arabidopsis. Based on these data, we propose that Cor413im proteins are novel components that are targeted to the chloroplast inner envelope in response to low temperature.
The plant WNK gene family and regulation of flowering time in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Y. , Liu K. , Liao H. , Zhuang C. , Ma H. , Yan X.
Published: July 2008

The WNK (with no lysine kinase) protein kinase gene family may be involved in regulating ion homeostasis and other physiological processes in mammals. WNK‐like genes have also been identified in plants, including nine in Arabidopsis, designated AtWNK1–AtWNK9. However, it is not clear if there are further plant WNK genes, and what the evolutionary relationships are among these genes, nor if these genes have functions other than their roles in regulating circadian rhythms and vacuolar H+‐ATPase. In the present study, we found a tenth Arabidopsis WNK gene, designated AtWNK10. Further phylogenetic analysis of Arabidopsis and rice WNK genes suggests that the most recent common ancestor of monocots and eudicots had 4–8 WNK genes, and that the WNK gene family has experienced duplication events and possible gene losses. Semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR revealed that all Arabidopsis WNK genes except AtWNK6 are expressed in organs from the seedling to the flowering plant. T‐DNA knockout mutations in the AtWNK2, AtWNK5 and AtWNK8 genes in different phylogenetic clades caused early flowering. In contrast, a T‐DNA knockout wnk1 mutant had a much delayed flowering time. In addition, the transcript levels of several genes in the photoperiod pathway for flowering, such as ELF4, TOC1, CO and FT, were altered in atwnk mutants. Taken together, our results suggest that the Arabidopsis WNK gene family regulates flowering time by modulating the photoperiod pathway.
Evidence for nickel/proton antiport activity at the tonoplast of the hyperaccumulator plant Alyssum lesbiacum
Authors: Ingle R. A. , Fricker M. D. , Smith J. A. C.
Published: July 2008

The mechanism of nickel uptake into vacuoles isolated from leaf tissue of Alyssum lesbiacum was investigated to help understand the ability of this species to hyperaccumulate Ni. An imaging system was designed to monitor Ni uptake by single vacuoles using the metal‐sensitive fluorescent dye, Newport Green. Nickel uptake into isolated vacuoles from leaf tissue of A. lesbiacum was enhanced by the presence of Mg/ATP, presumably via energisation of the vacuolar H+‐ATPase (V‐ATPase). This ATP‐stimulated Ni uptake was abolished by bafilomycin (a diagnostic inhibitor of the V‐ATPase) and by dissipation of the transmembrane pH difference with an uncoupler. These observations are consistent with Ni2+/nH+ antiport activity at the tonoplast driven by a proton electrochemical gradient established by the V‐ATPase, which would provide a mechanism for secondary active transport of Ni2+ into the vacuole. This study provides insights into the molecular basis of Ni tolerance in Alyssum, and may aid in the identification of genes involved in Ni hyperaccumulation.
Morphology of the digestive tract and feeding habits of Loricaria lentiginosa Isbrücker, 1979 in a Brazilian reservoir
Authors: Salvador‐Jr L. F. , Salvador G. N. , Santos G. B.
Published: July 2008

The present study describes some aspects of the morphology of the digestive tract and the feeding patterns of Loricaria lentiginosa. Sixty‐three specimens with gut contents were captured quarterly from November 2001 to August 2002 in Porto Colômbia reservoir, Rio Grande basin, southeastern Brazil. The species has bicuspid teeth inserted in the lips, unicuspid teeth in the dentary bone and pharyngeal teeth, besides having short, numerous and slightly separated gill rakers. The stomach is rudimentary and the intestine is relatively short (Intestinal Quotient = 1.32 ± 0.15). Molluscs, especially bivalves, represented the most important item on the diet of this species, followed by organic matter. The characteristics of the digestive tract as well as the dietary pattern, suggest that L. lentiginosa is able to explore bottom food resources, being classified as benthophagous with a tendency to malacophagy, and utilizing organic matter as an associated or additional food resource. Loricariidae species are able to use not only algae, sediment and detritus, but also plant and invertebrate items.
Organization and mode of secretion of the granular prismatic microstructure of Entodesma navicula (Bivalvia: Mollusca)
Authors: Harper Elizabeth M. , Checa Antonio G. , Rodríguez‐Navarro Alejandro B.
Published: July 2008

The term homogeneous has been applied to molluscan microstructures that lack a readily discernible microstructure and as a result, it has become rather a ‘dustbin’ term, covering a multitude of unrelated finely crystalline textures. Here we investigate in detail the outer ‘homogeneous’ layer of the lyonsiid bivalve Entodesma navicula. The apparently equigranular crystals (up to 10 µm) are, in fact, short prisms which grow in a dense organic matrix with their c‐axes and fibre axes coincident, perpendicular to the growth surface. These prisms are distinct from the aragonitic prisms grown by other bivalves in both their morphology and their mode of growth and so we propose the term granular prismatic microstructure. The organic content of granular prisms (7.4%) is the highest yet recorded for any molluscan microstructure and it is apparent that the short prisms have grown within a gel‐filled space. Although this high organic content is likely to make the microstructure metabolically expensive to produce, it has the benefit of making the valves very flexible. This may be advantageous in the intertidal zone inhabited by E. navicula by allowing a tight seal between the valves.
Sensory biology of Phalangida harvestmen (Arachnida, Opiliones): a review, with new morphological data on 18 species
Authors: Willemart Rodrigo H. , Farine Jean‐Pierre , Gnaspini Pedro
Published: July 2008

Phalangida includes three of the four suborders of Opiliones (Arachnida): Eupnoi, Dyspnoi and Laniatores. We review the literature on the sensory structures and capabilities of Phalangida, provide new morphological data for 18 species and discuss the 11 sensory structures that have been described in the group. Based on the published data encompassing both behaviour and morphology, three conclusions are apparent: (1) species of Phalangida appear to have limited abilities to detect stimuli at a distance; (2) close range olfaction probably helps to find foods with strong odours, but (3) they appear to be highly dependent on contact chemoreception to detect live prey, predators and mates. We also highlight the fact that legs I in the three suborders and pedipalps in Dyspnoi and Eupnoi are very important sensory appendages, thus legs II should not be called the ‘sensory appendages’ of harvestmen. In conclusion, we highlight the fact that the sensory capabilities, diet, prey capturing and handling ability, and foraging behaviour of species of Phalangida seem to be different from those of most other arachnids. Finally, we suggest future directions for studies in the field of the sensory system of the group.
Motor changes during sertraline treatment in depressed patients with Parkinson’s disease*
Authors: Kulisevsky J. , Pagonabarraga J. , Pascual‐Sedano B. , Gironell A. , García‐Sánchez C. , Martínez‐Corral M.
Published: July 2008

Background:  Pharmacological interventions to treat depressive symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are limited. Whether selective serotonine re‐uptake inhibitors increase parkinsonism or have clinically significant interactions with antiparkinsonian drugs is unresolved.

Purpose:  We used a naturalistic approach to prospectively investigate the long‐term effects on motor status of adding sertraline in a large sample of community‐dwelling PD patients with depressive symptoms.

Methods:  Main outcome measure was the motor part of the Unified PD Rating Scale (UPDRS) at baseline and at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month follow‐up. Secondary measures were the change in antiparkinsonian drugs expressed as total levodopa equivalent dose and the scores of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Of the 374 patients included, 310 (82%) completed the study.

Results:  Treatment with sertraline (mean dose 66.0 ± 29.8 mg) resulted in improvement in all UPDRS domains along with a significant decrease of the HADS scores. A modest but significant increase of the total dose of levodopa, without significant change of total levodopa equivalent dose, was observed. Almost 8% of patients discontinued medication for adverse events, mainly related to the gastrointestinal system.

Conclusions:  Although worsening of tremor was observed in some patients, active management of depression with sertraline appears to have a positive impact on parkinsonism.