Pseudodiarrhoea in zebra mussels Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas) exposed to microcystins.

Microcystins are produced by bloom-forming cyanobacteria and pose significant health and ecological problems. In this study we show that zebra mussels respond differently to different strains of Microcystis aeruginosa, and that a highly toxic strain causes zebra mussels to produce large quantities of mucous pseudofaeces, 'pseudodiarrhoea', that are periodically expelled hydraulically through the pedal gape by shell valve adductions rather than by the normal ciliary tracts. Analysis of the pseudofaecal ejecta showed that the proportion of Microcystis aeruginosa relative to Asterionella formosa was high in the pseudofaeces and even higher in the 'pseudodiarrhoea' when a mixed diet was given to the mussels.

Nutrition for physically frail older people. 2.

Nurses have an essential role to play in ensuring good patient nutrition, particularly in vulnerable groups. However, a lack of attention to the nutrition of frail older people has been identified in a range of settings. A best practice statement was developed to ensure high standards of practice in nutrition for frail older people.