bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Root canal morphology of mandibular permanent molars at different ages
Authors: Peiris H. R. D. , Pitakotuwage T. N. , Takahashi M. , Sasaki K. , Kanazawa E.
Published: September 2008

Aim  To investigate differences in the root canal morphology of permanent mandibular molar teeth at various ages.

Methodology  Four hundred and eighty permanent mandibular first and second molars were examined. First and second molars were divided into six and five groups, respectively, according to the age of the patient at the time of extraction. Root canal morphology was studied using a clearing technique. The canal morphology of the mesial root was classified into three stages depending on its developmental pattern. When the root canal system was completely differentiated, the canal classification and the number of lateral canals and inter‐canal communications were recorded. Vertucci’s classification was taken as the main reference. Canal morphology was compared amongst age groups.

Results  In both first and second molars, developmental stages of canal morphology amongst age groups were significantly different (P < 0.0001). The prevalence of inter‐canal communications was highly significantly different in the first (P < 0.0001) and less significant in the second molar (P < 0.05). After completion of the canal differentiation, the mesial roots of first molars had type IV and II canal forms. The majority of the mesial roots of second molars had type I and III canals. C‐shaped canals were found in 3% of second molars.

Conclusions  Mesial roots of first and second molars mostly had one large canal until 11 and 15 years of age, respectively. In both molars, the canal system was completely defined at 30–40 years. The prevalence of inter‐canal communications was low at young and old ages but high at intermediate ages.
Substance P influenced gelatinolytic activity via reactive oxygen species in human pulp cells
Authors: Wang F.‐M. , Hu T. , Cheng R. , Tan H. , Zhou X.‐D.
Published: September 2008

Aim  To investigate the effects of substance P (SP) on gelatinolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in human pulp cells.

Methodology  Human dental pulp cells were isolated and cultured. Subconfluent cells, between the third and sixth passages, were maintained under serum deprivation for 18 h followed by the treatment of varying doses of SP (1 pmol L−1, 100 pmol L−1, 10 nmol L−1, 1 μmol L−1 and 100 μmol L−1). Conditioned media were then subjected to gelatin zymography using 8% sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis minigels containing 1.5 g L−1 gelatin. The effect of SP on intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was also examined by confocal microscopy. ROS scavenger N‐Acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC, 5 mmol L−1) was utilized to evaluate the roles of ROS pathway in mediating the impact of SP on cellular gelatinolytic activity. Data were analysed using analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons or an unpaired Student’s t‐test.

Results  Substance P, at levels above 1 μmol L−1, remarkably enhanced MMP‐2 activity reflected by the band migrating at 66 kDa (P < 0.05). A gelatinolytic band at approximately 44 kDa appeared to be intensified in a SP dose‐dependent manner. In addition, it was demonstrated that SP could induce ROS production in pulp cells and ROS scavenger NAC was further found to significantly reduce MMP‐2 activity (P < 0.05), as well as other bands of gelatinolytic proteinases.

Conclusion  Substance P can influence gelatinolytic activity in human pulp cells via ROS pathway.
Dentinal tubule invasion and adherence by Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Chivatxaranukul P. , Dashper S. G. , Messer H. H.
Published: September 2008

Aim  To investigate dentinal tubule invasion and the predilection of Enterococcus faecalis for dentinal tubule walls.

Methodology  The invasion of dentinal tubules in extracted human teeth by E. faecalis was measured ex vivo after 8 weeks of incubation. The canal walls of 16 root sections were either intact or instrumented with or without smear layer present. Extent and maximum depth of tubule invasion were assessed histologically and compared between groups. In the adherence study, 44 vertically split root samples were prepared to expose longitudinally aligned dentinal tubules and fractured orthodentine (OD). Surfaces were exposed to E. faecalis (erythromycin resistant strain, JH2‐2 carrying plasmid pGh9:ISS1) and incubated aerobically for 2 h. Samples were processed for analysis using scanning electron microscopy. Bacterial adhesion to tubule walls versus fractured OD was calculated as number of cells per 100 μm2.

Results  The strain of E. faecalis used in this study showed moderate to heavy tubule invasion after 8 weeks. In the adhesion studies, significantly more bacteria adhered to fractured OD than to dentinal tubule walls (anova, P < 0.001). With respect to the tubule wall, adherence was greater in inner versus outer dentine (P = 0.02) and greater when bacterial adhesion was tested in chemically defined medium than in phosphate‐buffered saline (anova, P < 0.001).

Conclusions  Although E. faecalis readily invaded tubules, it did not adhere preferentially to tubule walls. Initial colonization of dentinal tubules by E. faecalis may depend primarily on other factors.
Application of ISO22000 and comparison to HACCP for processing of ready to eat vegetables: Part I
Authors: Varzakas Theodoros H. , Arvanitoyannis Ioannis S.
Published: September 2008

Preliminary Hazard Analysis was used to analyse and predict the occurring failure modes in a food chain system (ready to eat vegetables processing plant), in conjunction with ISO22000, the new Food Safety Management System, based on the functions, characteristics and/or interactions of the ingredients or the processes, upon which the system depends. Critical control points (CCPs) have been identified and implemented in the Hazard Analysis Critical Point Control plan. The decision table for CCP determination during processing of ready to eat vegetables is shown and compared with the ISO22000 Analysis Worksheet for determination of the prerequisite programmes. The prerequisite programmes are the main difference between the two systems. The incorporation of PrPs in the ISO22000 made the system more flexible as a smaller number of CCPs was introduced.
Optimisation of supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of lutein esters from marigold (Tagetes erect L.) with soybean oil as a co‐solvent
Authors: Ma Qingxiang , Xu Xiang , Gao Yanxiang , Wang Qi , Zhao Jian
Published: September 2008

Response surface methodology was used to optimise the conditions of supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of lutein esters from marigold (Tagetes erect L.) with soybean oil as a co‐solvent. The effect of pressure, temperature, CO2 flow rate and soybean oil concentration, and their interactions on the yield of lutein was investigated. Results showed that the data could be well fitted to a second‐order polynomial model with a R2‐value of 0.9398. The independent parameters of flow rate, pressure, temperature, all quadratics as well as the interactions between flow rate and pressure, and between flow rate and temperature affected the yield significantly (P ≤ 0.05). The model predicted that the optimal conditions were 35.5 MPa, 58.7 °C, CO2 flow rate of 19.9 L/h with 6.9% of soybean oil as a co‐solvent, and under such conditions, the maximum yield of 1039.7 mg lutein /100 g marigold could be achieved.
Effect of preliminary and culinary processing on amino acid content and protein quality in frozen French beans
Authors: Kmiecik Waldemar , Lisiewska Zofia , Słupski Jacek , Gębczyński Piotr
Published: September 2008

The aim of the study was to evaluate the content of amino acids and protein quality of French bean pods. The investigated material consisted of the raw vegetable, fresh pods cooked to consumption consistency, and two kinds of frozen products stored for 12 months at −20 °C and then prepared for consumption: frozen beans obtained using the traditional method (blanching before freezing) and frozen products of the ready‐to‐eat type (cooking before freezing). A comparison of the amino acid content in the product prepared for consumption showed that the lowest quantities were found in French beans obtained using the traditional method; products obtained using the modified technology and beans cooked directly after harvest had similar levels of most amino acids. The content of amino acids in 16 g N was less varied than in 100 g of the product. The protein in all the three products prepared for consumption as well as that in fresh bean pods hardly differs, as confirmed by the values in the essential amino acid index (EAA). The first limiting amino acid was methionine with cystine and the second was lysine.
Quality characteristics and storage stability of patties from buffalo head and heart meats
Authors: Verma Arun K. , Lakshmanan Veerappa , Das Arun K. , Mendiratta Sanjod K. , Anjaneyulu Anne Sita Ram
Published: September 2008

The study was conducted to evaluate the suitability of using buffalo head and heart meat in emulsion based products preparation and to assess their quality during refrigerated storage. The whole study was carried out in three phases. In phase I, head meat patties (HMP) (treatment I, II and III) were prepared in which head meat was substituted with 15%, 20% and 25% skeletal meat and compared with patties from skeletal meat (control). Treated patties had higher emulsion stability, cooking yield, pH and lower shrink percentage and chewiness than control. Sensory attributes of control and treated patties did not differ significantly. In phase II, HMP were prepared in which head meat was substituted with 20%, 30% and 40% heart meat and similarly compared with control as in phase I. Addition of heart meat in HMP had significantly (P < 0.05) increased pH, cooking yield, moisture, lower protein and fat content than control patties. Hardness, gumminess and chewiness values of control patties were higher than treated patties. HMP with heart meat had higher tenderness than control. Control patties rated better than treated patties during sensory evaluation. In phase III, quality of patties was assessed at refrigerated storage (4 ± 1 °C) for 15 days. The patties remained stable with minor changes in physico‐chemical, microbiological and sensory quality during refrigerated storage for 15 days. Buffalo head and heart meat effectively be utilised in developing patties.
Antioxidant activity of pomegranate rind powder extract in cooked chicken patties
Authors: Naveena Basappa M. , Sen Arup R. , Kingsly Rose P. , Singh Desh B. , Kondaiah Napa
Published: September 2008

The radical scavenging activity, reducing power and phenolic composition of pomegranate rind powder extract (RP) were determined and antioxidant properties of RP was evaluated in cooked chicken patties compared with vitamin C (VC) during refrigerated storage. Freshly minced chicken meat were assigned to one of the following six treatments: control (meat without any antioxidant); RP 5, RP 10, RP 15 and RP 20 (5, 10, 15 and 20 mg equivalent RP phenolics 100 g−1 meat, respectively) and VC 50 (50 mg VC 100 g−1 meat). The RP exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher reducing power and 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity. Incorporation of RP into chicken patties significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the HunterLab L* values compared with control and VC patties. Total phenolic content (as tannic acid equivalent) significantly (P < 0.05) increased from 308 in control to 441 μg g−1 in RP 20 patties. Addition of RP to chicken patties did not affect any of the sensory attributes. The values of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced from 1.530 in control patties to 0.135 mg malonaldehyde kg−1 samples in RP patties. Pomegranate rind powder extract treatment (RP 10, RP 15 and RP 20) substantially inhibited (P < 0.05) lipid oxidation in cooked chicken patties to a much greater extent than VC treatment. Therefore, pomegranate rind powder can be utilized as an excellent natural antioxidant source.
Moisture sorption isotherms and thermodynamic properties of apple Fuji and garlic
Authors: Moraes Mariana A. , Rosa Gabriela S. , Pinto Luiz A. A.
Published: September 2008

The moisture equilibrium isotherms of garlic and apple were determined at 50, 60 and 70 °C using the gravimetric static method. The experimental data were analysed using GAB, BET, Henderson–Thompson and Oswin equations. The isosteric heat and the differential entropy of desorption were determined by applying Clausius–Clapeyron and Gibbs–Helmholtz equations, respectively. The GAB equation showed the best fitting to the experimental data (R2 > 99% and E% < 10%). The monolayer moisture content values for apple were higher than those for garlic at the studied temperatures; the values varied from 0.050 to 0.056 and from 0.107 to 0.168 for garlic and apple, respectively. The isosteric heat and the differential entropy of desorption were estimated in function of the moisture content. The values of these thermodynamic properties were higher for apple (in range 48–100 kJ mol−1 and 14–150 J mol−1 K−1) than for garlic (in range 43–68 kJ mol−1 and 0–66 J mol−1 K−1). The water surface area values decreased with increasing temperature. The Kelvin and the Halsey equations were used to calculate the pore size distribution.
Comparison of polyamine, phenol and flavonoid contents in plants grown under conventional and organic methods
Authors: Lima Giuseppina Pace Pereira , Da Rocha Suraya Abdallah , Takaki Massanori , Ramos Paulo Roberto Rodrigues , Ono Elizabeth Orika
Published: September 2008

The objective of this work was to compare the contents of polyamines (putrescine, spermidine and spermine), and total soluble phenols and flavonoids in parts of plants grown under either organic or conventional cropping, commonly discarded during food preparation. The contents of free polyamines, total phenols and total soluble flavonoids in peels (zucchini squash, banana, potato, eggplant, orange, lime, mango, passion fruit and radish), leaves (zucchini squash, broccoli, carrot, collard, cassava, radish and grape), stalks (broccoli, collard and spinach) and zucchini seeds were analysed. Most analysed vegetables presented higher contents of polyamines and total phenols under organic cropping, contrary to the results obtained for total flavonoids, possibly because of the cultural practices adopted.
Equilibrium moisture of kale seed (Brassica oleraceavar.acephala): an alternative method for choice of the best model
Authors: Barrozo Marcos A. S. , Bego Natália C. , Oliveira Daniel T.
Published: September 2008

As majority of the sorption equilibrium equations are nonlinear, care should be taken in estimating their parameters, because in some situations, the confidence interval of the least‐squares (LS) estimators may not be appropriate. In these cases, some procedures are available in the literature to validate the statistical properties of the LS estimators of nonlinear models. In this work, the nonlinear measures are used to discriminate, between six equations that represent the sorption equilibrium isotherms of kale seeds (Brassica oleraceaL. var.acephalaD.C.). Results show that the Halsey modified equation is the best one to describe the experimental data.
Effect of flavonoids on the oxidative stability of corn oil during deep frying
Authors: Naz Shahina , Siddiqi Rahmanullah , Asad Sayeed Syed
Published: September 2008

To study the effect of flavonoids on the stability of frying oil, refined corn oil was analysed periodically for its peroxide value (PV), p‐anisidine value (p‐AV) and iodine value (IV) after its use for deep‐frying of French fries at 180 °C for varying periods of time, namely 30, 60 and 90 min. PV and p‐AV values increased with respect to time while a decrease in IV was observed with increase in time (P < 0.001). Deep‐frying of French fries in corn oil was then carried out in the presence of flavonoids, viz. pelargonidin, cyanidin, quercetin, myrecetin and gallic acid as antioxidants. All antioxidants effectively reduced the oxidation rate in the oil, as detected by decrease in PVs and p‐AVs and relatively low reduction rate in IVs (P < 0.001). The order of antioxidative activity was gallic acid > quercetin > myrecetin > cyanidin > pelargonidin.
(+)‐Catechin and (−)‐epicatechin levels of concentrated and ready‐to‐drink grape juices through storage
Authors: Gollücke Andréa Pittelli Boiago , De Souza Jane Cristina , De Queiroz Tavares Débora
Published: September 2008

Commercial concentrated Concord (CCJ) and Isabel (CIJ) grapes juices were stored at 4–5 °C while pasteurised ready‐to‐drink juices of the same grape cultivars (PCJ and PIJ) were kept at 20–25 °C under indirect light for 10 months, simulating industrial storage conditions. (+)‐catechin preservation during storage ranged between 63% (PCJ) and 52% (PIJ); (−)‐epicatechin retention was of 32% (CCJ) and 15% (CIJ). Total phenols retention ranged from 93% (CCJ) to 84% (PCJ) and radical scavenging activity (RSA) from 87% (PIJ) to 85% (CCJ and PCJ). Concentrated juices showed higher monomeric flavan‐3‐ols amounts and CCJ depicted superior phenolic contents. PIJ yielded the highest RSA during storage per phenolic unit. Process and storage impacted flavan‐3‐ols and not total phenolics and RSA during 10‐month ageing.
Effect of the side chain size of 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles on antioxidant activity and ‘Laba’ garlic greening
Authors: Wang Dan , Hu Xiaosong , Zhao Guanghua
Published: September 2008

Previous studies showed that 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles not only occur in fresh food products postulated as a natural antioxidant but also might be involved in garlic greening. In the present study, a series of 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles with different side chain size were synthesised to study the relationship of structure and antioxidative activity and their effects on ‘Laba’ garlic greening. The antioxidative activity of these compounds was evaluated by the method of scavenging ABTS˙ and DPPH˙. Results showed that increasing the size of R groups on the side chain, the antioxidative activity decreased gradually against the two radicals. The 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles generally exhibited stronger scavenging activities against ABTS˙ than DPPH˙. In contrast, their corresponding amino acids except for tyrosine showed almost no antioxidative activities while pyrrole exhibited much weaker activity as compared with the 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles, suggesting that the 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles donate H‐atom from pyrrole moiety rather than side chain to quench the two radicals. On the other hand, all 1‐alkyl‐pyrroles can turn newly harvested garlic green but to a different extent. All these results suggested that these pyrrole derivatives occurring in foodstuff played an important role in either protecting foodstuff from oxidation or acting on pigment precursors during ‘Laba’ garlic greening.
Comparative study on composition and antioxidant properties of mint and black tea extract
Authors: Padmini Ekambaram , Prema Krishnan , Vijaya Geetha Bose , Usha Rani Munuswamy
Published: September 2008

The antioxidant properties of plants could be correlated with oxidative stress defence in different human diseases. The present study was undertaken to evaluate and compare the antioxidant potential and the phytochemical composition in the aqueous extracts of mint leaves, black tea and black tea enriched with mint extract. All the three preparations exhibited free radical‐scavenging potential for nitric oxide (NO) radical, superoxide anion radical and hydroxyl radical, and the values were lesser than those of the antioxidants which acted as standards. In comparison, the mint extract exhibited higher free radical and NO scavenging effect. Hydroxyl radical and superoxide scavenging effects were more pronounced in tea with the mint extract, while the reducing power was exhibited more significantly by the black tea extract. The phytochemical compounds were identified and the total phenols and flavonoids were quantified and compared between these extracts.
Psychosocial interventions for non‐professional carers of people with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Hempel Susanne , Norman Gill , Golder Su , Aguiar‐Ibáñez Raquel , Eastwood Alison
Published: September 2008

Title.  Psychosocial interventions for non‐professional carers of people with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic scoping review.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a scoping review to systematically identify and collate the evidence on psychosocial interventions for non‐professional carers of people with Parkinson’s disease.

Background.  Carers are critical to people with Parkinson’s disease maintaining independent living and quality of life. Parkinson’s disease imposes a challenging constellation of symptoms and no summary of effective interventions for carers and their unique support needs exists.

Data sources.  Thirty electronic databases were searched from their inception to July 2006, and bibliographies and specific internet sites were scanned.

Methods.  Eligible studies were categorized according to design, type of economic evaluation where applicable, number of participants, country of evaluation, intervention, orientation, provider, setting, method of delivery, carer population, patient population, carer outcomes, patient outcomes and authors’ conclusions. Data were extracted by one reviewer and checked by another reviewer; discrepancies were resolved through discussion or arbitration by a third reviewer.

Findings.  Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria. Most investigated relatively unique interventions involving multiple elements; the majority were not aimed primarily at carers but were embedded in patient treatment programmes. Many were pilot studies, employing weak research designs and involving very small numbers of participants and most were not designed to assess the clinical or cost effectiveness of the intervention for the carers.

Conclusion.  Several interventions merit further investigation but there is currently little evidence to show which approaches are effective and cost effective in supporting carers. Future studies need to employ appropriate and rigorous research designs with adequate samples and outcome measures, and with more focus on the carer.
Do migratory pathways affect the regional abundance of wintering birds? A test in northern Spain
Authors: Tellería José Luis , Ramírez Álvaro , Galarza Aitor , Carbonell Roberto , Pérez‐Tris Javier , Santos Tomás
Published: September 2008

Aim  The abundance distribution of organisms at regional scales is commonly interpreted as the result of spatial variation in habitat suitability. However, the possibility that geography itself may affect patterns of distribution has received less attention. For example, the abundance of wintering bird populations might be influenced by the cost of reaching areas located far away from the main migratory pathways. We studied the abundance distribution of three common migratory passerines (meadow pipits, Anthus pratensis; common chaffinches, Fringilla coelebs; and European robins, Erithacus rubecula) wintering in farmlands located in the 600‐km long Cantabrian coastal sector of northern Spain, roughly perpendicular to the west Pyrenean migratory pathway that drives European migrant birds into the Iberian Peninsula.

Location  The study area occupies a belt located between the Atlantic coast and the Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain.

Methods  We counted wintering and breeding birds and measured the structure of vegetation and environmental variables (altitude, rainfall, temperature) in 68 farmlands distributed at different distances from the west Pyrenean migratory flyway. We also studied the distribution of birds ringed in central and northern Europe and recovered in the study area between October and February. Analyses were based on single univariate statistics (chi‐square tests), ordination by principal components analysis and multiple regression.

Results  Controlling for the effects of climate, vegetation structure and local abundance of breeding conspecifics, the winter abundance of all three species decreased with the distance from their main migratory route in the western Pyrenees. Such patterns fitted well to the observed distribution of ringing recoveries.

Main conclusions  Our results support a link between the movements of birds along the Pyrenean migratory pathway and their winter abundance in northern Spain. According to this view, the sectors located near the migratory pathway seem to be more easily occupied by migrants, supporting the idea that proximity to passage areas may explain the fine‐grain regional patterning of species abundance in wintering grounds.
Local extent of old‐growth woodland modifies epiphyte response to climate change
Authors: Ellis Christopher J. , Yahr Rebecca , Coppins Brian J.
Published: September 2008

Aim  To quantify the interaction between climate and woodland continuity in determining the bioclimatic response of lichen epiphytes.

Location  Northern Britain (Scotland).

Methods  Indicator‐species analysis was used to pre‐select lichen epiphytes along parallel gradients in climate and the extent of old‐growth woodland. Nonparametric multiplicative regression was used to describe in a predictive model the individualistic response of selected species, which were projected based on climate‐change scenarios and contrasting patterns of simulated woodland loss or gain. Species with a similar response were grouped using a novel application of cluster analysis to summarize the potentially huge number of projected outcomes. Projected patterns of occurrence under climate‐change scenarios were examined for different levels of old‐growth woodland extent.

Results  Forty‐two lichen species were statistically significant indicator species in oceanic woodlands, and old‐growth indicators under suboptimal climatic conditions. Responses to climate‐change scenarios were contrasting, with one group comprising species projected to increase in extent in response to climate warming, and other response groups projected to decrease in occurrence, possibly in response to shifting rainfall patterns. The occurrence of all response groups had a positive relationship with old‐growth woodland extent.

Main conclusions  An ‘oceanic’ biogeographical group of epiphytes identified using the baseline climatic and present‐day woodland setting comprised species with a cyanobacterial photobiont or tropical phytogeographical affinities. However, within this group the individual species responses to climate‐change scenarios were contrasting. Additionally, group responses may be poorly matched with simple ecological traits. However, the studied interaction between climate and habitat continuity suggests that the impact of climate change might be offset for certain lichen epiphytes by appropriate management of woodland resources, for example, expansion of native woodland around remnant old‐growth stands.
New approaches to understanding late Quaternary climate fluctuations and refugial dynamics in Australian wet tropical rain forests
Authors: VanDerWal Jeremy , Shoo Luke P. , Williams Stephen E.
Published: September 2008

Aim  We created spatially explicit models of palaeovegetation stability for the rain forests of the Australia Wet Tropics. We accounted for the climatic fluctuations of the late Quaternary, improving upon previous palaeovegetation modelling for the region in terms of data, approach and coverage of predictions.

Location  Australian Wet Tropics.

Methods  We generated climate‐based distribution models for broad rain forest vegetation types using contemporary and reconstructed ‘pre‐clearing’ vegetation data. Models were projected onto previously published palaeoclimate scenarios dating to c. 18 kyr bp. Vegetation stability was estimated as the average likelihood that a location was suitable for rain forest through all climate scenarios. Uncertainty associated with model projections onto novel environmental conditions was also tracked.

Results  Upland rain forest was found to be the most stable of the wet forest vegetation types examined. We provide evidence that the lowland rain forests were largely extirpated from the region during the last glacial maximum, with only small, marginally suitable fragments persisting in two areas. Models generated using contemporary vegetation data underestimated the area of environmental space suitable for rain forest in historical time periods. Model uncertainty resulting from projection onto novel environmental conditions was low, but generally increased with the number of years before present being modelled.

Main conclusions  Climate fluctuations of the late Quaternary probably resulted in dramatic change in the extent of rain forest in the region. Pockets of high‐stability upland rain forest were identified, but extreme bottlenecks of area were predicted for lowland rain forest. These factors are expected to have had a dramatic impact on the historical dynamics of population connectivity and patterns of extinction and recolonization of dependent fauna. Finally, we found that models trained on contemporary vegetation data can be problematic for reconstructing vegetation patterns under novel environmental conditions. Climatic tolerances and the historical extent of vegetation may be underestimated when artificial vegetation boundaries imposed by land clearing are not taken into account.
Colonization patterns and genetic structure of peripheral populations of the trumpeter finch (Bucanetes githagineus) from Northwest Africa, the Canary Islands and the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Barrientos R. , Kvist L. , Barbosa A. , Valera F. , López‐Iborra G. M. , Moreno E.
Published: September 2008

Aim  This paper has three aims: (1) to reconstruct the colonization history of two peripheral populations of the trumpeter finch (Bucanetes githagineus) presumably originating from the same source, one the result of an ancient expansion process and the other recently established and still expanding; (2) to estimate the importance of key events, such as past and current gene flow and bottlenecks, in both expansion processes and their contribution to the present population structure and genetic diversity; and (3) to find out whether two peripheral populations that established at widely differing times also differ in terms of genetic diversity.

Location  Northwest Africa (assumed source population), Canary Islands (long‐established peripheral) and south‐eastern Iberian Peninsula (recently established peripheral).

Methods  Bayesian analysis of population structure, individual assignment tests, F‐statistics, maximum likelihood migration estimates, genetic diversity indices and bottleneck tests were calculated with microsatellite data from 194 trumpeter finches from five breeding and two seasonal non‐breeding sites.

Results  Our data support the existence of two subpopulations (Canary Island and Ibero‐African) as the most likely population structure. Seasonal sites in the Iberian Peninsula had the highest percentage of birds assigned to other, mainly Iberian, sites. Pairwise FST values showed that the Canary Island localities were very similar to each other, but differed from the rest. Gene flow estimates within subpopulations were only slightly higher in the Canary Island population than in the Ibero‐African one. Gene diversity indices were similar at all localities. Canary Island sites show evidence of bottlenecks, whereas the Ibero‐African sites do not.

Main conclusions  Our data show that, at present, birds from the Canary Islands are genetically differentiated from those in North Africa and continental Spain. We could not unequivocally confirm the African origin of Canary populations because the contrary is also plausible. The Iberian Peninsula seems to have repeatedly received individuals from North Africa, which would have led to the relatively high genetic diversity found in these recently established localities and prevented bottlenecks. Movements of individuals towards sites outside their current range during the non‐breeding season are likely to precede the establishment of new breeding sites at the periphery of the distribution range.
Contrasting phylogeographies inferred for the two alpine sister species Cardamine resedifolia and C. alpina (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Lihová Judita , Carlsen Tor , Brochmann Christian , Marhold Karol
Published: September 2008

Aim  We use Cardamine alpina and C. resedifolia as models to address the detailed history of disjunctions in the European alpine system. These species grow on siliceous bedrock: C. alpina in the Alps and Pyrenees, and C. resedifolia in several mountain ranges from the Sierra Nevada to the Balkans. We explore differentiation among their disjunct populations as well as within the contiguous Alpine and Pyrenean ranges, and compare the phylogeographical histories of these diploid sister species. We also include samples of the closely related, arctic diploid C. bellidifolia in order to explore its origin and post‐glacial establishment.

Location  European alpine system, Norway and Iceland.

Methods  We employed amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs). AFLP data were analysed using principal coordinates analysis, neighbour joining and Bayesian clustering, and measures of diversity and differentiation were computed.

Results  For the snow‐bed species C. alpina (27 populations, 203 plants) we resolved two strongly divergent lineages, corresponding to the Alps and the Pyrenees. Although multiple glacial refugia were invoked in the Pyrenees, we inferred only a single one in the Maritime Alps – from which rapid post‐glacial colonization of the entire Alps occurred, accompanied by a strong founder effect. For C. resedifolia (33 populations, 247 plants), which has a broader ecological amplitude and a wider distribution, the genetic structuring was rather weak and did not correspond to the main geographical disjunctions. This species consists of two widespread and largely sympatric main genetic groups (one of them subdivided into four geographically more restricted groups), and frequent secondary contacts exist between them.

Main conclusions  The conspicuously different histories of these two sister species are likely to be associated with their different ecologies. The more abundant habitats available for C. resedifolia may have increased the probability of its gradual migration during colder periods and also of successful establishment after long‐distance dispersal, whereas C. alpina has been restricted by its dependence on snow‐beds. Surprisingly, the arctic C. bellidifolia formed a very divergent lineage with little variation, contradicting a scenario of recent, post‐glacial migration from the Alps or Pyrenees.
Improving efficiency and value in health care Intravenous iron management for anaemia associated with chronic kidney disease: linking treatment to an outpatient clinic, optimizing service provision and patient choice
Authors: Bhandari Sunil , Naudeer Sarah
Published: September 2008

Rationale  The National Service Framework advocates correction of anaemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Oral iron is insufficient, while intravenous (IV) supplementation replenishes and maintains iron stores. In Yorkshire numerous peripheral clinics exist to reduce travel for patients, but patients must travel to the main unit for IV iron therapy. Therefore an outpatient service in tandem with a routine clinic for administration of IV CosmoFer was created.

Purpose  To evaluate the feasibility and benefits of IV iron therapy in the outpatient clinic during active patient review for CKD patients.

Design  A cross‐sectional study of patients attending for total dose IV iron (n = 57) at a peripheral clinic. Iron was administered and monitored according to protocol by one of the clinic nurses with medical staff available in the adjoining room. Haemoglobin, ferritin and renal function were recorded pre‐infusion and after 4–6 months. Results are given as medians/means ± standard error.

Results  A total of 76 IV infusions were carried out with no reported side effects or haemodynamic instability. Haemoglobin (median 10.9 vs. 11.3 g dL−1, P = NS), creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) over the 6‐month period remained stable. Serum ferritin rose significantly [80.9 ± 6.2 vs. 186.4 ± 18.2 g L−1 (P < 0.001)]. Hospital time saved 380 day case bed hours, doctor hours saved 76 hours, and patient hours saved 3 hours/patient. Cost savings for TDI CosmoFer in peripheral clinic versus in centre therapy and versus sucrose, respectively, for 76 treatments was £5749.40 and £46 320.80 respectively.

Conclusion  We have demonstrated, in a resource‐limited service, the feasibility and cost‐effectiveness of a management care pathway for patients with CKD, in a peripheral clinic, to receive total dose IV CosmoFer without disruption of a functioning renal clinic.
Ventilation / Perfusion SPECT for diagnostics of pulmonary embolism in clinical practice
Authors: Bajc M. , Olsson B. , Palmer J. , Jonson B.
Published: September 2008

Aim.  The aim of this retrospective study is to illustrate clinical utility and impact of pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnostics of up to date Ventilation/Perfusion SPECT (V/PSPECT) applying holistic interpretation criteria.

Material and methods.  During a 2‐year period 2328 consecutive patients referred to V/PSPECT for clinically suspected PE were examined. Final diagnosis was established by physicians clinically responsible for patient care. To establish the performance of V/PSPECT negative for PE, patients were followed up by medical records for 6 months.

Results.  Ventilation/Perfusion SPECT was feasible in 99% of the patients. Data for follow‐up were available in 1785 patients (77%). PE was reported in 607 patients (34%). Normal pattern was described in 420 patients (25%). Pathology other than PE such as a pneumonia, left heart failure, obstructive lung disease, tumour was described in 724 patients (41%). Report was nondiagnostic in 19 patients (1%). Six cases were classified as falsely negative because PE was diagnosed at follow‐up and was fatal in one case. Six cases were classified as falsely positive because the clinician decided not to treat. In 608 patients with final PE diagnosis, 601 patients had positive V/PSPECT (99%). In 1177 patients without final PE diagnosis 1153 patients had negative V/PSPECT (98%).

Conclusions.  Holistic interpretation of V/PSPECT, yields high negative and positive predictive values and only 1% of nondiagnostic findings and was feasible in 99% of patients. It is a responsibility and a challenge of nuclear medicine to provide optimal care of patients with suspected PE by making V/PSPECT available.
Recent developments in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis with bisphosphonates: enhanced efficacy by enhanced compliance
Authors: Boonen S. , Vanderschueren D. , Venken K. , Milisen K. , Delforge M. , Haentjens P.
Published: September 2008

Bisphosphonates are the current mainstay of treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Although daily oral dosing is effective, it is associated with poor compliance, partly because of the pre and postdose fasting and posture requirements. This negatively impacts treatment outcomes, leading to a reduced clinical benefit. Improved, yet still suboptimal adherence has been noticed with less frequent bisphosphonate dosing e.g. once‐weekly and once‐monthly oral regimens. The recently approved quarterly intravenous (i.v.) injection regimen of ibandronate and yearly i.v. infusion of zoledronic acid are attractive options in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis. These regimens may assure quarterly and year long compliance.
Range‐wide genetic homogeneity in the California sea mussel (Mytilus californianus): a comparison of allozymes, nuclear DNA markers, and mitochondrial DNA sequences
Authors: ADDISON JASON A. , ORT BRIAN S. , MESA KATHRYN A. , POGSON GRANT H.
Published: September 2008

We tested for genetic differentiation among six populations of California sea mussels (Mytilus californianus) sampled across 4000 km of its geographical range by comparing patterns of variation at four independent types of genetic markers: allozymes, single‐copy nuclear DNA markers, and DNA sequences from the male and female mitochondrial genomes. Despite our extensive sampling and genotyping efforts, we detected no significant differences among localities and no signal of isolation by distance suggesting that M. californianus is genetically homogeneous throughout its range. This concordance differs from similar studies on other mytilids, especially in the role of postsettlement selection generating differences between exposed coastal and estuarine habitats. To assess if this homogeneity was due to M. californianus not inhabiting estuarine environments, we reviewed studies comparing allozymes with other classes of nuclear DNA markers. Although both types of markers gave broadly consistent results, there was a bias favouring studies in which allozymes were more divergent than DNA markers (nine to three) and a disproportionate number of these cases involved marine taxa (seven). Furthermore, allozymes were significantly more heterogeneous than DNA markers in three of the four studies that sampled coastal and estuarine habitats. We conclude that the genetic uniformity exhibited by M. californianus may result from a combination of extensive gene flow and the lack of exposure to strong selective gradients across its range.
Inter‐species hybridization among Neotropical cats of the genusLeopardus, and evidence for an introgressive hybrid zone betweenL. geoffroyiandL. tigrinusin southern Brazil
Authors: TRIGO T. C. , FREITAS T. R. O. , KUNZLER G. , CARDOSO L. , SILVA J. C. R. , JOHNSON W. E. , O’BRIEN S. J. , BONATTO S. L. , EIZIRIK E.
Published: September 2008

Natural hybrid zones between distinct species have been reported for many taxa, but so far, few examples involve carnivores or Neotropical mammals in general. In this study, we employed mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences and nine microsatellite loci to identify and characterize a hybrid zone between two Neotropical felids,Leopardus geoffroyiandL. tigrinus, both of which are well‐established species having diverged from each otherc.1 million years ago. These two felids are mostly allopatric throughout their ranges in South America, with a narrow contact zone that includes southern Brazil. We present strong evidence for the occurrence of hybridization between these species and identify at least 14 individuals (most of them originating from the geographical contact zone) exhibiting signs of interspecific genomic introgression. The genetic structure of BrazilianL. tigrinuspopulations seems to be affected by this introgression process, showing a gradient of differentiation fromL. geoffroyicorrelated with distance from the contact zone. We also corroborate and extend previous findings of hybridization betweenL. tigrinusand a third related felid,L. colocolo, leading to an unusual situation for a mammal, in which the former species contains introgressed mtDNA lineages from two distinct taxa in addition to its own.
Group composition affects male reproductive partitioning in a cooperatively breeding cichlid
Authors: HEG DIK , JUTZELER EVA , BONFILS DANIELLE , MITCHELL JEREMY S.
Published: September 2008

Individuals within groups of cooperatively breeding species may partition reproduction, with the dominant pair often taking the largest share. The dominant's ability to reproductively control subordinates may depend on differences in competitive ability, due to, e.g. body size differences, but may also depend on the number of same‐sex competitors inside the group. We tested experimentally whether subordinates reproduce more when these subordinates are large or when a second subordinate of the same sex need to be controlled by the dominants, using the cooperatively breeding cichlid Neolamprologus pulcher. Dominant pairs were assisted by a large and a small unrelated subordinate; sexes of these fish were varied in a full‐factorial design (giving four treatments). Dominant males lost significantly more parentage to the large subordinate male when a small subordinate male was also present, compared to when a small subordinate female was present. However, subordinate paternity was generally low and did not significantly curb total dominant male reproductive output, which was more affected by the sizes and numbers of reproductive females present inside his group. Dominant female maternity, clutch sizes and total output did not depend on the treatments. Subordinate–subordinate reproduction was virtually absent (one out of 874 offspring). Female subordinates were more likely to provide care for their own broods. In contrast, male subordinates did not adjust their level of care to their parentage. Variability in female subordinate alloparental brood care was particularly high, with females showing more care than males in general. We also detected effects of growth rate and food ration on parentage independent of the treatments, most notably: (i) a trade‐off between dominant male growth rate and paternity; (ii) a decrease in dominant male paternity with increasing food ration; (iii) a positive effect of growth rate on paternity in small males. We conclude that dominant males should be sensitive to the number and sizes of subordinate males present in their group, particularly when these subordinates are not helpful or grow fast, and food is plentiful. Dominant females should be less sensitive, because female subordinates do not appear to impose reproductive costs and can be helpful through alloparental brood care.
The prevalence of preterm birth and season of conception
Authors: Bodnar Lisa M. , Simhan Hyagriv N.
Published: September 2008

Preterm birth is a major obstetric problem. An exploration of the season of conception in relation to preterm birth may provide direction in the search for risk factors. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 82 213 singleton livebirths (20–45 weeks' gestation) to 61 630 women at Magee‐Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA, from 1995 to 2005. Conception was estimated based on gestational age determined by best obstetric estimate. Fourier series analysis was used to model seasonal trends.

Spontaneous preterm birth at <37 weeks was associated with conception season (P < 0.05). The peak prevalence occurred among conceptions in winter and spring (peaking February 23 at 6.9%), with an average trough among late summer/early autumn conceptions (August 25 at 6.2%). The pattern for spontaneous preterm birth <32 weeks was similar (P < 0.05), with the peak on March 13 (1.7%), and nadir on September 12 (1.4%). Results were similar when indicated preterm births were included. These seasonal changes may increase our insight into the role of exposures with seasonal periodicity in the pathophysiology of preterm birth.
Desiccation tolerance in the vegetative tissues of the fern Mohria caffrorum is seasonally regulated
Authors: Farrant Jill M. , Lehner Arnaud , Cooper Keren , Wiswedel Stefan
Published: September 2008

As there is limited information on the mechanisms of vegetative desiccation tolerance in pteridophytes, we undertook a comprehensive anatomical, ultrastructural, physiological and biochemical study on the fern Mohria caffrorum. Our data show that this species is desiccation‐tolerant during the dry season, and desiccation‐sensitive in the rainy season. This system allows the verification of protection mechanisms by comparison of tolerant and sensitive tissues of the same species at the same developmental age. Tolerant fronds acquire protection mechanisms during drying that are mostly similar to those reported for angiosperms. These include: (i) chlorophyll masking by abaxial scales and frond curling; (ii) increased antioxidant capacity that is maintained in dry tissues; (iii) mechanical stabilization of vacuoles in the dry state; (iv) de novo production of heat stable proteins (at least one identified as a putative chaperonin); (v) accummulation of protective carbohydrates (sucrose, raffinose family oligosaccharides and cyclitols). This study has implications for the biotechnological production of drought‐tolerant crops, and allows speculation on the evolution of vegetative desiccation tolerance.