bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metformin administration and laparoscopic ovarian drilling improve ovarian response to clomiphene citrate (CC) in oligo‐anovulatory CC‐resistant women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Palomba Stefano , Orio Francesco , Falbo Angela , Russo Tiziana , Caterina Grande , Manguso Francesco , Tolino Achille , Colao Annamaria , Zullo Fulvio
Published: November 2005

Objective  To compare the efficacy of clomiphene citrate (CC) administration for ovulation induction in CC‐resistant oligo‐ovulatory women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) after metformin treatment or laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD).

Design  Prospective controlled study.

Patients  Twenty‐eight overweight oligo‐amenorrhoeic women with PCOS who were still anovulatory after metformin administration (group A, n = 8) or LOD (group B, n = 20).

Methods  Treatment with CC 150 mg/day for 5 days from the third to the seventh day of a progesterone‐induced uterine bleeding for 6 months.

Measurements  The ovulation, pregnancy, abortion and live‐birth rates were evaluated in each group.

Results  The subjects of groups A and B were studied for a total of 36 and 74 cycles, respectively. At the end of the study, no differences in ovulation [11/36 (30·6%) vs. 23/74 (31·1%); P = 0·96], pregnancy [6/36 (16·7%) vs. 12/74 (16·2%); P = 0·95], abortion [2/6 (33·3%) vs. 5/12 (41·7%); P = 1·00] and the live‐birth [4/6 (66·7%) vs. 7/12 (58·3%); P = 1·00] rates were observed between groups A and B.

Conclusion  Metformin administration as well as LOD improves the effectiveness of CC for ovulation induction in overweight infertile CC‐resistant women with PCOS.
Elevated late‐night salivary cortisol levels in elderly male type 2 diabetic veterans
Authors: Liu Hau , Bravata Dena M. , Cabaccan Josel , Raff Hershel , Ryzen Elisabeth
Published: November 2005

Objective  Late‐night salivary cortisol (LNSC) is reportedly highly accurate for the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome (CS). However, diagnostic thresholds for abnormal results are based on healthy, young populations and limited data are available on its use in elderly populations with chronic medical conditions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate LNSC levels in elderly male veterans with and without diabetes.

Design  Prospective evaluation of LNSC levels in male veterans.

Patients  One hundred and fifty‐four participants with type 2 diabetes and 52 participants without diabetes.

Measurements  Participants underwent outpatient LNSC (2300 h) testing. Participants with elevated LNSC (≥ 4·3 nmol/l) underwent secondary testing, including 24‐h urine free cortisol (24UFC, > 60 µg/day) and dexamethasone suppression testing (DST, serum cortisol > 50 nmol/l). Participants with positive secondary testing had a morning ACTH level analysed and either pituitary or adrenal imaging performed.

Results  One hundred and forty‐one diabetics and 46 controls (mean age 61 years) returned samples (91% overall). Average LNSC levels (nmol/l) in diabetics were significantly higher than in nondiabetics [median (interquartile range): 2·6 (1·8–4·1) vs. 1·6 (1·0–2·0)] and in those aged ≥ 60 compared to < 60 [2·7 (2·0–4·3) vs. 1·9 (1·4–2·9)] (P < 0·001 for both). Thirty‐one participants required secondary testing. Seventy‐nine per cent of participants who underwent secondary testing had normal 24UFC and DST. No cases of CS have been diagnosed to date. Increasing age [odds ratio (OR) 2·0 per decade], current diabetes mellitus (OR 4·4), and elevated blood pressure (OR 1·3 per 10 mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure) were associated with abnormal LNSC results (P < 0·05 for each).

Conclusions  LNSC has been shown to be sensitive and specific in diagnosing CS in certain high‐risk populations, primarily the young and middle‐aged. The development of age‐ and comorbidity‐adjusted thresholds may be warranted for LNSC testing in elderly subjects and in those with significant comorbidity.
Effects of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) on macrophytes and invertebrate communities in a shallow lake
Authors: MILLER S. A. , CROWL T. A.
Published: November 2005

1. We performed two field experiments using different cage sizes to determine the direct and indirect effects of carp on macrophytes and invertebrate community composition in a shallow lake.

2. The presence of carp produced a significant decrease in macrophyte abundance, changes in species composition and decreased abundance and diversity of invertebrates in small (2.5 × 2.5 × 2.0 m) cages. In large exclosures (15 × 5 m), only macrophyte stem length was significantly affected by carp.

3. There was considerable variation in the macrophyte and invertebrate responses to carp on different sides of the lake in the large exclosures, suggesting that wind and wave action are also important variables affecting macrophyte growth and persistence.

4. The data suggest that carp can significantly affect species abundance and diversity of macrophytes and some macroinvertebrates.
Experiments with duckweed–moth systems suggest that global warming may reduce rather than promote herbivory
Authors: VAN DER HEIDE TJISSE , ROIJACKERS RUDI M. M. , PEETERS EDWIN T. H. M. , VAN NES EGBERT H.
Published: November 2005

1. Wilf & Labandeira (1999) suggested that increased temperatures because of global warming will cause an increase in herbivory by insects. This conclusion was based on the supposed effect of temperature on herbivores but did not consider an effect of temperature on plant growth.

2. We studied the effect of temperature on grazing pressure by the small China‐mark moth (Cataclysta lemnata L.) on Lemna minor L. in laboratory experiments.

3. Between temperatures of 15 and 24 °C we found a sigmoidal increase in C. lemnata grazing rates, and an approximately linear increase in L. minor growth rates. Therefore, an increase in temperature did not always result in higher grazing pressure by this insect as the regrowth of Lemna changes also.

4. At temperatures below 18.7 °C, Lemna benefited more than Cataclysta from an increase in temperature, causing a decrease in grazing pressure.

5. In the context of global warming, we conclude that rising temperatures will not necessarily increase grazing pressure by herbivorous insects.
Structure, biomass, production and depth distribution of periphyton on artificial substratum in shallow lakes with contrasting nutrient concentrations
Authors: LIBORIUSSEN LONE , JEPPESEN ERIK
Published: November 2005

1. To examine how the vertical distribution of periphytic biomass and primary production in the upper 0–1 m of the water column changes along an inter‐lake eutrophication gradient, artificial substrata (plastic strips) were introduced into the littoral zones of 13 lakes covering a total phosphorus (TP) summer mean range from 11 to 536 μg L−1. Periphyton was measured in July (after 8 weeks) and September (after 15 weeks) at three water depths (0.1, 0.5 and 0.9 m).

2. Periphyton chlorophyll a concentration and dry weight generally increased with time and the communities became more heterotrophic. Mean periphytic biomass was unimodally related to TP, reaching a peak between 60 and 200 μg L−1.

3. The proportion of diatoms in the periphyton decreased from July to September. A taxonomic shift occurred from dominance (by biovolume) of diatoms and cyanobacteria at low TP to dominance of chlorophytes at intermediate TP and of diatoms (Epithemia sp.) in the two most TP‐rich lakes.

4. The grazer community in most lakes was dominated by chironomid larvae and the total biomass of grazers increased with periphyton biomass.

5. Community respiration (R), maximum light‐saturated photosynthetic rate (Pmax), primary production and the biomass of macrograzers associated with periphyton were more closely related to periphyton biomass than to TP. Biomass‐specific rates of R, Pmax and production declined with increasing biomass.

6. Mean net periphyton production (24 h) was positive in most lakes in July and negative in all lakes in September. Net production was not related to the TP gradient in July, but decreased in September with increasing TP.

7. The results indicate that nutrient concentrations alone are poor predictors of the standing biomass and production of periphyton in shallow lakes. However, because periphyton biomass reaches a peak in the range of phosphorus concentration in which alternative states occur in shallow lakes, recolonisation by submerged macrophytes after nutrient reduction may potentially be suppressed by periphyton growth.
Long‐term demography of a zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) population
Authors: STRAYER DAVID L. , MALCOM HEATHER M.
Published: November 2005

1. We used long‐term data and a simulation model to investigate temporal fluctuations in zebra mussel populations, which govern the ecological and economic impacts of this pest species.

2. The size of the zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) population in the Hudson River estuary fluctuated approximately 11‐fold across a 13‐year period, following a cycle with a 2–4 year period.

3. This cycling was caused by low recruitment during years of high adult population size, rapid somatic growth of settled animals, and adult survivorship of 50% per year.

4. Adult growth and body condition were weakly correlated with phytoplankton biomass.

5. The habitat distribution of the Hudson's population changed over the 13‐year period, with an increasing proportion of the population spreading onto soft sediments over time. The character of soft‐sediment habitats in the Hudson changed because of large amounts (mean = 34 g DM m−2) of empty zebra mussel shells now in the sediments.

6. Simulation models show that zebra mussel populations can show a range of long‐term trajectories, depending on the balance between adult space limitation, larval food limitation, and disturbance.

7. Effective understanding and management of the effects of zebra mussels and other alien species depend on understanding of their long‐term demography, which may vary across ecosystems.
Factors controlling planktonic size spectral responses to autumnal circulation in a Mediterranean lake
Authors: ALVAREZ‐COBELAS MIGUEL , ROJO CARMEN , VELASCO JOSÉ LUIS , BALTANÁS ANGEL
Published: November 2005

1. Studies of planktonic size spectra have been common in recent years, but few concerning the effects of autumnal lake processes on those distributions have been reported. We carried out such a study for 93 days during early circulation in a small, mesotrophic, seepage lake with only benthivorous fish. Two distinct mixing periods occurred before full circulation in Las Madres lake (Spain). As a proxy of overall planktonic‐ and phytoplanktonic size distributions, the shape of a Pareto I power function was traced over time. The phytoplanktonic size spectrum was also used to test the hypothesis that phytoplankton might show a trophic cascade during early circulation.

2. Our results demonstrated that the overall size spectrum changed smoothly during the autumnal mixing, with sequential changes controlled by a combination of biotic and abiotic variables, albeit experiencing different temporal delays, always shorter than a week. A first combined, autogenic process, driven both by algal competition and a crustacean trophic effect, and a second physical‐forcing process, driven by the combined effect of convective cooling and decreasing irradiance on mixed layer dynamics, may be related to the overall planktonic spectrum in the first and second periods of mixing, respectively.

3. The phytoplanktonic size spectrum did not appear to be dictated by a trophic cascade in Las Madres lake, their dynamics being mostly controlled by physical forcing, along with some effect of non‐edible primary producers and cladocerans in the first and second periods of mixing, respectively.

4. Our results and others covering early circulation with longer sampling periods suggest that planktonic size spectral dynamics during lake circulation is context‐dependent (i.e. varying from one lake to another), thus preventing generalisation. However, when further studies with finer temporal resolution have been carried out, it is likely that clear‐cut patterns in the planktonic size spectrum will emerge, arising from the interplay of autogenic plankton dynamics, implying some resistance to community change because of external physical forcing, and the velocity of autumnal mixing.
Magnetic resonance imaging of experimental testicular torsion
Authors: KAIPIA A. , RYYMIN P. , MÄKELÄ E. , AALTONEN M. , KÄHÄRÄ V. , KANGASNIEMI M.
Published: November 2005

We investigated the feasibility of contrast enhanced (CE)‐dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detection of testicular torsion induced hypoperfusion in an experimental rat model. Adult Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to unilateral testicular torsion of 360 or 720 degrees. After 1 h, the tail veins of the anaesthetized rats were cannulated and T2 ‐, diffusion‐weighted and T1‐weighted CE‐dynamic MRI were subsequently performed by a 1.5 T MRI scanner. On apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) images, the region of interest values of the ischaemic and control testes was compared. From CE‐dynamic MR images, the maximal slopes of contrast enhancement were calculated and compared. In testicular torsion of 360 degrees, the maximal slope of contrast enhancement was 0.072%/s vs. 0.47%/s in the contralateral control testis (p < 0.001). A torsion of 720 degrees diminished the slope of contrast enhancement to 0.046%/s vs. 0.37%/s in the contralateral testis (p < 0.001). Diminished blood flow during torsion also followed in decreased ADC values in both 360 degrees (12.4% decrease; p < 0.05) and 720 degrees (10.8% decrease; p < 0.001) of torsion. Torsion of the testis causes ipsilateral hypoperfusion and decreased gadolinium uptake in a rat model that can be easily detected and quantified by CE‐dynamic MRI. In diffusion‐weighted MRI images, acute hypoperfusion results in a slight decrease of ADC values. Our results suggest that CE‐dynamic MRI in combination with diffusion‐weighted MRI can be used to detect compromised blood flow due to acute testicular torsion.
Prostatectomy patients’ postoperative pain assessment in the recovery room
Authors: Heikkinen Katja , Salanterä Sanna , Kettu Marjaana , Taittonen Markku
Published: November 2005

Aim.  This paper reports a study to assess the usability and use of different pain assessment tools and to compare patients’ and nurses’ pain assessments in the recovery room after prostatectomy.

Background.  Pain assessment is the first step towards providing adequate pain relief but poses problems because of the subjective nature of the pain experience and the lack of quantifiable measurements. Pain tools have been tested in several clinical settings, but not in the recovery room.

Methods.  Data were collected in the recovery room from 45 consecutive patients who had undergone prostatectomy by asking them to evaluate their pain intensity using visual analogue scale, numeric rating scale and verbal expressions. One of two research nurses measured patients’ pain at regular intervals and at the same time as the patients. Physiological parameters were also evaluated. Data were analysed as frequencies and percentages. Sum variables were formed and results were analysed using Spearman's rank correlation, Pearson's correlation and with multiple regression analysis.

Results.  Patients varied in their ability to assess the intensity of their pain using different tools, but assessments were correlated with each other and with nurses’ estimations. Nurses and patients obtained similar assessments, but nurses both underestimated and overestimated patients’ pain. Patients’ verbal assessments varied widely. Patients’ and nurses’ pain assessments showed no association with patients’ pulse or mean arterial blood pressure.

Conclusions.  According to our results, it is not totally clear whether pain tools are usable in the recovery room. This issue calls for further research.
Dimensions of quality in long‐term care facilities in Taiwan
Authors: Chao Shu‐Yuan , Roth Patricia
Published: November 2005

Aim. This article presents the results of a qualitative study designed to explore the perceptions of Taiwanese elders about the quality of their care while in residence at a long‐term care facility.

Background. As the population of elders in Taiwan is increasing rapidly, quality long‐term care has become both a necessity and social responsibility. Research related to quality of care has focused on structure, process and outcomes as well as perceptions of quality of care and life satisfaction. Few authors have considered residents’ perspectives within a cultural context.

Method. A convenience sample of 22 residents, aged between 61 and 86 years and living in four Taiwanese care facilities, participated in semi‐structured interviews. The data were generated during 2001/2002 and were analysed using content analysis.

Results. Six key dimensions of quality care were elicited. The dimensions were: a caring attitude, respect for individual differences, emotional support, social interaction, a supportive environment, and accessible care. These dimensions are discussed within a cultural context supportive of family connectedness and filial piety, values underpinning care expectations of elders.

Conclusions. The findings provide a foundation for increased understanding of the perceived gaps between residents’ aspirations about quality care and priorities identified in other studies. Additional studies based on these data are planned in order to generate a culturally relevant, psychometrically sound resident assessment tool to evaluate the quality of care from a resident perspective in long‐term care facilities in Taiwan.
Dynamics of hope in adults living with HIV/AIDS: a substantive theory
Authors: Kylma Jari
Published: November 2005

Aim. The aim of this paper was to discuss a substantive theory on the dynamics of hope in adults living with the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

Background. Existing literature describes how the dynamics of hope have profound connections with human essence and life, wellbeing and health, suffering and illness, and nursing care, in general as well as in the context of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

Method. The data consisted of five original articles describing the dynamics of hope in people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome and their significant others in Finland. Meta‐synthesis was adapted to synthesize the original studies into a substantive theory.

Findings. The core category that emerged was the dynamically alternating balance between interconnected hope, despair and hopelessness based on folding (closing down of) and unfolding (opening up of) possibilities with regard to the dynamics of hope in dealing with the changing self and life with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome. The dynamics of hope include the subprocesses of hope, despair and hopelessness.

Conclusion. The dynamics of hope in adults living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome is an important phenomenon in nursing practice and nursing science. In taking care of people living with acquired immune deficiency syndrome, factors contributing to folding possibilities should be minimized, if possible, and factors contributing to unfolding possibilities should be nourished. The present study adds to the knowledge‐base of nursing science about the dynamics of hope in people living with acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Future research should focus on testing this theory in people living with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
Meleis's theory of nursing transitions and relatives’ experiences of nursing home entry
Authors: Davies Sue
Published: November 2005

Aim.  This paper explores the extent to which Meleis's mid‐range theory of nursing transitions is supported by the findings of a study exploring relatives’ experiences of the move to a nursing home.

Background.  Mid‐range nursing theories are useful tools in helping to understand the scope of nursing practice in a range of contexts and situations. However, as yet, many formal mid‐range theories have not been adequately tested.

Methods.  Findings from a constructivist study of relatives’ experiences of nursing home entry were re‐analysed in relation to the extent to which they reflected the domains of the theory of nursing transitions. Data for the original study were generated during 37 qualitative interviews involving 48 close family members of older people who had recently moved to a nursing home, and in observational case studies in three nursing homes.

Findings.  All domains of the theory of nursing transition were supported by the data generated within the study. However, the model failed to represent adequately the interactive and dynamic nature of relationships between formal and informal caregivers in the nursing home context.

Conclusions.  The theory of nursing transitions has the potential to assist nurses in identifying appropriate strategies for supporting relatives throughout the period of an older person's relocation to a nursing home. However, in order to reflect fully the experiences of relatives at this time, the theory requires adjustment to recognize the contribution made by relatives themselves to positive outcomes. This therefore raises questions as to whether the relative absence of this reciprocal and interactive dimension is an element of Meleis's theory that requires further exploration in relation to other forms of transition.
Complex adaptive systems: concept analysis
Authors: Holden Lela M.
Published: November 2005

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to explicate the concept of complex adaptive systems through an analysis that provides a description, antecedents, consequences, and a model case from the nursing and health care literature.

Background.  Life is more than atoms and molecules – it is patterns of organization. Complexity science is the latest generation of systems thinking that investigates patterns and has emerged from the exploration of the subatomic world and quantum physics. A key component of complexity science is the concept of complex adaptive systems, and active research is found in many disciplines – from biology to economics to health care. However, the research and literature related to these appealing topics have generated confusion. A thorough explication of complex adaptive systems is needed.

Methods.  A modified application of the methods recommended by Walker and Avant for concept analysis was used.

Findings.  A complex adaptive system is a collection of individual agents with freedom to act in ways that are not always totally predictable and whose actions are interconnected. Examples include a colony of termites, the financial market, and a surgical team. It is often referred to as chaos theory, but the two are not the same. Chaos theory is actually a subset of complexity science. Complexity science offers a powerful new approach – beyond merely looking at clinical processes and the skills of healthcare professionals.

Conclusion.  The use of complex adaptive systems as a framework is increasing for a wide range of scientific applications, including nursing and healthcare management research. When nursing and other healthcare managers focus on increasing connections, diversity, and interactions they increase information flow and promote creative adaptation referred to as self‐organization. Complexity science builds on the rich tradition in nursing that views patients and nursing care from a systems perspective.
Determining older people's needs for care by Registered Nurses: the Nursing Needs Assessment Tool
Authors: Slater Paul , McCormack Brendan
Published: November 2005

Aims.  This paper reports a study to determine an appropriate framework for assessing older people's needs for nursing within the policy of ‘free nursing’, and to attempt to identify valid, reliable and usable assessment tool for determining this eligibility.

Background.  In 2001, the United Kingdom government introduced ‘free nursing care’ legislation, eligibility for which was subject to a nursing needs assessment. This paper outlines the search for and subsequent development of an appropriate tool for assessing older people's eligibility for free nursing care in Northern Ireland.

Methods.  Following a systematic search of the literature, existing tools used in ascertaining older people's nursing needs were identified. Each tool was systematically assessed in accordance with criteria of validity, reliability, usability, comprehensiveness of assessment and ability to quantify nursing care needs. From the findings, an assessment instrument, Nursing Needs Assessment Tool was subsequently developed and tested. Paired assessments of older people were undertaken independently by assessor dyads and evaluated statistically. Assessors’ opinions on the usability of the instrument were sought through a focus group.

Results.  One hundred and ten paired assessments were returned (63%). Overall there was 65% agreement between assessors. Kappa scores indicated good levels of inter‐rater reliability. Correlation co‐efficient measures reinforced these results. Findings from the focus group confirmed the validity, usability and comprehensiveness of the tool.

Conclusions.  The Nursing Needs Assessment Tool is a reliable, valid and usable instrument. This has major implications for the standardization of assessment for older people.
Intra‐oral temperatures during function
Authors: BARCLAY C. W. , SPENCE D. , LAIRD W. R. E.
Published: November 2005

summary  There has been limited published research assessing the range of oral temperature that the dental hard and soft tissues are exposed to. The temperatures that tooth structure and dental restorations encounter affect the performance of dental materials within the oral environment. This study therefore assessed the range of temperatures that a selected group could tolerate when drinking and also assessed the range of temperatures encountered in various intra‐oral sites. These temperature fluctuations are for very brief periods of time but have a wide and varied range. Miniature dataloggers allowed for accurate measurements and recording of temperature from selected sites. The range of temperature recorded amongst the individuals tested shows the protection afforded to the dental hard tissues by the soft tissues of the oral cavity. The maximum and minimum mouth temperatures recorded show that hot fluids can raise the intra‐oral temperature of the front teeth to around 70 °C and the consumption of iced drinks lowers the same teeth to around 0 °C. The range of temperature of hot fluids that can be tolerated by a selected group vary, but this does not seem to be the case for cold fluids. The thermistor beads mounted on the buccal surface of the lower front teeth and the palatal of the upper front teeth are exposed to the greatest temperature fluctuations during drinking fluids from a cup. The importance of these temperatures recorded in terms of dental materials testing and the role of material conductivity warrants further investigation.
Infantile reflexes and their effects on dental caries and oral hygiene in cerebral palsy individuals
Authors: DOS SANTOS M. T. B. R. , NOGUEIRA M. L. G.
Published: November 2005

summary  The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of pathological primitive reflexes and their effects on dental caries and oral hygiene in cerebral‐palsied individuals. A group of 124 non‐institutionalized patients (57 males) attending Lar Escola Sao Francisco Rehabilitation Center, who had a medical diagnosis of spastic CP (age range 3–17 years, mean ± s.d. = 8·6 ± 4·3) were selected for dental clinical evaluation according to WHO (Oral health surveys: basic methods, WHO, Geneva, 1997) and oral hygiene using the oral hygiene index proposed by Greene and Vermillion (J Am Dent Assoc, 1964, 68, 7). The presence/absence of the pathological primitive oral reflexes of rooting, suckle‐swallow, biting and gagging was evaluated by observing patients’ reaction after a stimulus. Results were statistically analysed by Fisher's exact, Chi‐square and Kruskal–Wallis tests. A significantly higher percentage of the biting reflex in patients with quadriplegia was observed, and also the absence of this reflex in patients with hemiplegia (P = 0·006). Patients with hemiplegia presented significantly lower DMF index values. Kruskal–Wallis test showed no statistical difference (P = 0·335; 0·677; 0·202) for OHI‐S among the quadriplegia, diplegia and hemiplegia for all dentitions. Our data suggest that the more severe the neurological damage is, the more frequent is the presence of the biting reflex and consequently, the higher is the risk of oral diseases in this population due to the difficulty to perform an adequate oral hygiene.
A study of the proximity of the Broadrick ideal occlusal curve to the existing occlusal curve in dentate patients
Authors: CRADDOCK H. L. , LYNCH C. D. , FRANKLIN P. , YOUNGSON C. C. , MANOGUE M.
Published: November 2005

summary  Increasingly, clinicians are called upon to restore dentitions, which have become mutilated because of tooth loss, wear, trauma and disease. In many cases, restoration of the occlusal plane may be required. A simple tool, which provides the laboratory technician with an approximation of the patient's original occlusal curve may be useful. The purpose of this study is to determine the accuracy of the occlusal curve designed using the Broadrick flag. A total of 100 patients with intact dental arches were examined, and deviations from the Broadrick curve were measured on scanned study models using a software package. Simple descriptive statistics were used to investigate the data, and intra‐examiner reliability was examined using a Bland Altman plot. The results demonstrated little deviation from the Broadrick curve in natural adult dentitions, mean deviation 0·1262 mm, 95% confidence interval −0·32 to 0·2844. Good intra‐examiner reliability was achieved. It can be concluded that the Broadrick flag method may be of use in determining an appropriate occlusal curve for dentate individuals with deranged occlusal planes.
Surface EMG of jaw‐elevator muscles and chewing pattern in complete denture wearers
Authors: PIANCINO M. G. , FARINA D. , TALPONE F. , CASTROFLORIO T. , GASSINO G. , MARGARINO V. , BRACCO P.
Published: November 2005

summary  The aim of this study was to investigate the adaptation process of masticatory patterns to a new complete denture in edentulous subjects. For this purpose, muscle activity and kinematic parameters of the chewing pattern were simultaneously assessed in seven patients with complete maxillary and mandibular denture. The patients were analysed (i) with the old denture, (ii) with the new denture at the delivery, (iii) after 1 month and (iv) after 3 months from the delivery of the new denture. Surface electromyographic (EMG) signals were recorded from the masseter and temporalis anterior muscles of both sides and jaw movements were tracked measuring the motion of a tiny magnet attached at the lower inter‐incisor point. The subjects were asked to chew a bolus on the right and left side. At the delivery of the new denture, peak EMG amplitude of the masseter of the side of the bolus was lower than with the old denture and the masseters of the two sides showed the same intensity of EMG activity, contrary to the case with the old denture. EMG amplitude and asymmetry of the two masseter activities returned as with the old denture in 3 months. The EMG activity in the temporalis anterior was larger with the old denture than in the other conditions. The chewing cycle width and lateral excursion decreased at the delivery of the new denture and recovered after 3 months.
Natal philopatry does not lead to population genetic differentiation in Buller's albatross (Thalassarche bulleri bulleri)
Authors: VAN BEKKUM MARGO , SAGAR PAUL M. , STAHL JEAN‐CLAUDE , CHAMBERS GEOFFREY K.
Published: November 2005

Genetic variability in the only two existing populations of Buller's albatross (Thalassarche bulleri bulleri) was assessed using six polymorphic microsatellite loci. Large biological samples were obtained from both the Snares (n = 99) and the Solander Islands (n = 27). Several measures of genetic differentiation including FST and RST and a principal coordinates analysis (PCO) suggest a complete absence of genetic structure between three breeding colonies on the Snares Islands, and between them and one breeding colony on the Solander Islands. Mark/recapture studies of recently banded albatross chicks on the Snares found high natal philopatry in T. b. bulleri, but the microsatellite DNA data suggest that sufficient gene flow still occurs between all four breeding colonies to maintain a genetically homogeneous population overall.
Does disturbance enhance genotypic diversity in clonal organisms? A field test in the marine angiosperm Zostera marina
Authors: REUSCH THORSTEN B. H.
Published: November 2005

Physical disturbance has often been invoked to control genotypic diversity in sessile clonal organisms, yet experimental evidence is lacking. I studied the effects of physical disturbance on genet dynamics and genotypic diversity in a clonal marine angiosperm, Zostera marina (eelgrass). In replicated plots of 1 m2, the vegetation canopy was removed in gaps of zero (control), 25%, 50% and 75% of the area (n = 6 replicates). Before removal and during two consecutive years, the genotypic composition was determined using genetic markers (DNA microsatellites) in a 5 × 5 pixel grid per plot. An aggregate index of genet dynamics summarizing recruitment, increase, loss and decrease of clones was maximal at intermediate disturbance levels (quadratic polynomial P = 0.02). Physical disturbance also increased the occurrence of new genotypes, possibly reflecting recruitment (linear model, P < 0.05). Contrary to expectations, there was no competitive advantage of more heterozygous genotypes over less heterozygous ones. In the absence of disturbance, in particular, clones with lower individual heterozygosity were more likely to increase in area over a 1‐year time period than more heterozygous ones, while there was no such correlation in plots with disturbance (logistic model, Pdisturbance × heterozygosity = 0.036). Undisturbed plots revealed background recruitment independent of canopy gaps, suggesting that Z. marina exhibits a strategy of continual recruitment. Effects of experimental disturbance (linear or quadratic) on clonal diversity were not detectable. Instead, initial (pretreatment) clonal diversity accounted for between 68% and 91% of the variance in diversity, indicating remarkable resilience of genotypic diversity in the face of physical disturbance.
Glial cells in the gut
Authors: Rühl A.
Published: November 2005

Abstract   The enteric nervous system is composed of both neurons and glia. Recent evidence indicates that enteric glia–which vastly outnumber enteric neurons–are actively involved in the control of gastrointestinal functions: they contain neurotransmitter precursors, have the machinery for uptake and degradation of neuroligands, and express neurotransmitter‐receptors which makes them well suited as intermediaries in enteric neurotransmission and information processing in the ENS. Novel data further suggest that enteric glia have an important role in maintaining the integrity of the mucosal barrier of the gut. Finally, enteric glia may also serve as a link between the nervous and immune systems of the gut as indicated by their potential to synthesize cytokines, present antigen and respond to inflammatory insults. The role of enteric glia in human disease has not yet been systematically studied, but based on the available evidence it is predictable that enteric glia are involved in the etiopathogenesis of various pathological processes in the gut, particularly such with neuroinflammatory or neurodegenerative components.
Tachygastria induced by gastric electrical stimulation is mediated via α‐ and β‐adrenergic pathway and inhibits antral motility in dogs
Authors: Ouyang H. , Xing J. , Chen J. D. Z.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Background:  It is known that tachygastria is associated with gastric hypomotility and retrograde gastric electrical stimulation (RGES) delays gastric emptying and is proposed for treating obesity. The aim was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of RGES on postprandial antral contraction in dogs.

Methods:  Seven dogs were implanted with a gastric cannula and three pairs of gastric serosal electrodes. Antral contractions and gastric myoelectrical activity were recorded immediately after a solid meal, with or without RGES, or with GES on the corpus, or with RGES under administration of propranolol. The stimulus was composed of long pulses with a tachygastrial frequency.

Results:  (i) GES at the tachygastrial frequency impaired gastric myoelectrical activity and induced tachygastria (anovaP < 0.05). (ii) GES at the tachygastrial frequency suppressed antral contractions (anovaP < 0.01) and the effect was stronger with retrograde stimulation than forward stimulation (P < 0.05). (iii) GES‐induced tachygastria was correlated with antral hypomotility (r = −0.60, P = 0.01). (iv) Propranolol and phentolamine abolished GES‐induced tachygastria and antral hypomotility.

Conclusions:  Long‐pulse RGES at a tachygastrial frequency suppresses postprandial antral contractions, which is attributed to an induction of tachygastria via the α‐ and β‐adrenergic pathway.
How reproducible is cutaneous electrogastrography? An in‐depth evidence‐based study1
Authors: Jonderko K. , Kasicka‐jonderko A. , Krusiec‐świdergoł B. , Dzielicki M. , Strój L. , Doliński M. , Doliński K. , Błońska‐fajfrowska B.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Aim:  To check on reproducibility of parameters of the cutaneous electrogastrogram registered at a close or a distant time span.

Methods:  Twenty‐two volunteers recruited by an advertisement (11 females and 11 males, median age 25 years, range: 18–35) underwent three surface electrogastrography examinations of which two were taken on consecutive days and the third one was accomplished at least 2 weeks before or after the two other sessions. The examination involved a 30‐min fasted recording, followed by a 90‐min postprandial registration after intake of a 394‐kcal mixed solid–liquid test meal.

Results:  Parameters of the electrogastrogram pertaining to the frequency of the gastric slow waves exhibited good to moderate reproducibility, whereas fair reproducibility characterized parameters expected to describe the power of gastric slow waves. With the exception of the difference fed minus fasted power (ΔDP), in no instance was the medium term reproducibility any worse than the short term one. Categorical data analysis revealed that the relative time share of normogastria postprandially exhibited a better reproducibility than in the fasted period. The Cohen's κ‐value of 0.459 for the ΔDP for the medium term reproducibility placed this parameter within the range of moderate agreement between repeat examinations. Of the two two‐parameter combinations considered, the alliance of the fasted and fed normogastria performed worse than any of those parameters considered alone, whereas a combination of the ΔDP with the fed‐state normogastria revealed a κ‐value amounting to 0.510 for the medium term reproducibility.

Conclusions:  The feasibility of some electrogastrographic parameters to convey clinically useful information may be hampered by their fair reproducibility. Recoding of parameters of the cutaneous electrogastrogram from primary continuous to secondary categorical may help achieve a better agreement between repeat examinations.
Barostat testing of rectal sensation and compliance in humans: comparison of results across two centres and overall reproducibility
Authors: Cremonini F. , Houghton L. A. , Camilleri M. , Ferber I. , Fell C. , Cox V. , Castillo E. J. , Alpers D. H. , Dewit O. E. , Gray E. , Lea R. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Whorwell P. J.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  We assessed reproducibility of measurements of rectal compliance and sensation in health in studies conducted at two centres. We estimated samples size necessary to show clinically meaningful changes in future studies. We performed rectal barostat tests three times (day 1, day 1 after 4 h and 14–17 days later) in 34 healthy participants. We measured compliance and pressure thresholds for first sensation, urgency, discomfort and pain using ascending method of limits and symptom ratings for gas, urgency, discomfort and pain during four phasic distensions (12, 24, 36 and 48 mmHg) in random order. Results obtained at the two centres differed minimally. Reproducibility of sensory end points varies with type of sensation, pressure level and method of distension. Pressure threshold for pain and sensory ratings for non‐painful sensations at 36 and 48 mmHg distension were most reproducible in the two centres. Sample size calculations suggested that crossover design is preferable in therapeutic trials: for each dose of medication tested, a sample of 21 should be sufficient to demonstrate 30% changes in all sensory thresholds and almost all sensory ratings. We conclude that reproducibility varies with sensation type, pressure level and distension method, but in a two‐centre study, differences in observed results of sensation are minimal and pressure threshold for pain and sensory ratings at 36–48 mmHg of distension are reproducible.
Activation of splanchnic and pelvic colonic afferents by bradykinin in mice
Authors: Brierley S. M. , Jones R. C. W. , Xu L. , Gebhart G. F. , Blackshaw L. A.
Published: November 2005

Abstract Background: Lumbar splanchnic (LSN) and sacral pelvic (PN) nerves convey different mechanosensory information from the colon to the spinal cord. Here, we determined whether these pathways differ also in their chemosensitivity to bradykinin.

Methods: Using a novelin vitromouse colon preparation, serosal afferents were recorded from the LSN and PN and distinguished based on their mechanosensitivity to von Frey filaments (70–4000 mg) and insensitivity to colonic stretch (1–5 g) or fine mucosal stroking (10 mg). Bradykinin was applied into a ring around mechanoreceptive fields.

Results: The LSN and PN afferents had different dynamic responses to mechanical stimuli: PN afferents required lower intensity stimuli, evoked larger responses, and displayed more maintained responses than LSN afferents. Bradykinin (1 μmol L−1) excited 66% (27 of 41) of LSN afferents. Responses to probing were potentiated after bradykinin. The concentration‐dependent (EC50: 0.16 μmol L−1) response was reversed by the B2‐receptor antagonist HOE‐140 (10 nmol L−1). Twelve bradykinin responsive afferents were mechanically insensitive. More LSN serosal afferents responded to bradykinin than PN afferents (11%,P < 0.001) , with larger responses (P < 0.05). No mechanically insensitive PN afferents were recruited by bradykinin.

Conclusions: Bradykinin potently stimulates most splanchnic serosal afferents via B2‐receptors, but few pelvic afferents. Mechanically insensitive afferents recruited by bradykinin are exclusive to the LSN.
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ‐induced delay in gastric emptying: role of central corticotropin‐releasing factor and glucocorticoid receptors
Authors: Broccardo M. , Scaccianoce S. , Del Bianco P. , Agostini S. , Petrella C. , Improta G.
Published: November 2005

Abstract When injected intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) in rats, nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) delays gastric emptying and increases plasma corticosterone levels. Our aim in this study was to investigate changes in gastric emptying of a phenol red meal, and the plasma corticosterone response to N/OFQ in adrenalectomized (ADX) rats, in ADX rats injected with corticosterone at 1, 24 and 72 h before the gastric emptying assay, and in intact rats i.c.v. pretreated with a glucocorticoid antagonist (RU486) and with a corticotropin‐releasing factor receptor antagonist (α‐helical CRF9–41). In adrenal intact rats, i.c.v. injection of N/OFQ (2.5 nmol rat−1) significantly delayed gastric emptying (by 70%) and increased plasma corticosterone concentrations. Conversely, in ADX rats, N/OFQ left gastric emptying unchanged. In ADX rats, corticosterone injected at 1, 24 and 72 h before the gastric emptying assay almost restored the N/OFQ‐induced delay in gastric emptying. Finally, pretreatment with RU486‐ andα‐helical CRF9–41abolished the N/OFQ‐induced inhibition of gastric emptying. These findings suggest that central N/OFQ inhibits gastric emptying through an integrated orphaninergic system–CRF interaction in which corticosterone plays a permissive role.
Symptom responses, long‐term outcomes and adverse events beyond 3 years of high‐frequency gastric electrical stimulation for gastroparesis
Authors: Lin Z. , Sarosiek I. , Forster J. , Mccallum R. W.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  The aims were to determine symptom responses and long‐term outcomes in gastroparetic patients receiving gastric electrical stimulation (GES) therapy beyond 3 years by presenting per protocol analysis and intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis. Data collected at baseline, 1 year and beyond 3 years in 55 patients included total symptom scores (TSS), nutritional status, weight, hospitalizations, the use of prokinetic and/or antiemetic medications, HbA1c in diabetics and adverse events. Of the 55 patients, 10 died of non‐pacemaker‐related complications, six had the devices removed and two could not be reached. The remaining 37 patients had the device activated for a mean of 45 months. Both per protocol and ITT analysis demonstrated that TSS, hospitalization days and the use of medications were all significantly reduced at 1 year and were sustained beyond 3 years. Average TSS decreased by 62.5% for the 37 patients completing 3 years of GES. At implantation, 15/37 patients required nutritional support and only five continued beyond 3 years. Mean HbA1c level in diabetics was significantly reduced from 9.5 to 7.9% at 3 years. We conclude that a significant improvement in symptoms and all measures of clinical outcome can be maintained for greater than 3 years with GES in patients with refractory gastroparesis.
Effect of DSS‐induced colitis on visceral sensitivity to colorectal distension in mice
Authors: Larsson M. H. , Rapp L. , Lindström E.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  The present study aimed at evaluating the effect of dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)‐induced colitis on visceral sensitivity, measured as the visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distension (CRD) in BALB/c and C57Bl/6 male mice. Inflammation was induced by the addition of 4% DSS to the drinking water for 5 (C57Bl/6) or 6–7 days (BALB/c). Parallel groups were used to monitor histopathological changes and visceral sensitivity. Pseudo‐affective visceral pain responses were evoked using an increasing phasic CRD paradigm (10–60 mmHg) in conscious mice on predetermined days (pretreatment controls, 12, 16, 20, 30, 40 and 51). In both mouse strains, significant histopathological changes developed between days 2 and 5 of DSS treatment, and persisted until day 12 (P < 0.05). On day 15, inflammatory scores were reduced by about 50%. Despite evidence of inflammation in DSS‐treated mice, no differences could be shown in the VMR to CRD between DSS‐treated mice and controls at any time point tested. In addition, no differences were seen before and after DSS treatment in the same group of mice. In conclusion, these data suggest that DSS‐induced colonic inflammation does not affect the visceral sensitivity to CRD, neither at short or long term, in BALB/c or C57Bl/6 male mice.