bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal expression of estrogen receptor α in the hypothalamus and medulla oblongata during fasting: a role of noradrenergic neurons
Authors: Reyes Beverly A S , Tsukamura Hiroko , I’Anson Helen , Estacio Maria Amelita C , Hirunagi Kanjun , Maeda Kei-Ichiro
Published: September 2006

Fasting-induced LH suppression is augmented by estrogen in female rats. We investigated the temporal changes in the number of estrogen receptor α (ERα)-immunoreactive (ir) cells in various brain regions in ovariectomized rats fasted for 6, 24, 30, and 48 h, commencing at 1300 h. We also determined the anatomical relationship of ERα immunoreactivity and dopamine-β-hydroxylase (DBH) neurons in the A2 region of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and the paraventricular nucleus (PVN). The number of ERα-ir cells significantly increased after 30 h from the onset of fasting in the PVN and NTS compared with the unfasted controls and was sustained until 48 h. In the A2 region of 48-h fasted rats, 46.75% DBH-ir cells expressed ERα, and this was significantly higher than in unfasted controls (8.16% DBH-ir cells expressed ERα). In the PVN, most ERα-ir neurons were juxtaposed with DBH-ir varicosities. These results suggest that ERα is expressed in specific brain regions at a defined time from the onset of fasting. In addition, the anatomical relationship of noradrenergic and ERα-ir neurons in the A2 region and PVN may suggest a role for estrogen in increasing the activity of noradrenergic neurons in the A2 region and enhancing sensitivity of the PVN to noradrenergic input arising from the lower brainstem and thereby augmenting the suppression of LH secretion during fasting.
Nitric oxide production by hepatocytes contributes to the inhibitory effect of endotoxin on insulin-like growth factor I gene expression
Authors: Priego Teresa , Granado Miriam , Castillero Estibaliz , Martín Ana Isabel , Villanúa M Ángeles , López-Calderón Asunción
Published: September 2006

We tested whether endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) inhibits IGF-I gene expression in hepatocytes and the possible role of Kupffer cells and nitric oxide (NO) in this effect. LPS decreased IGF-I mRNA in hepatocyte cultures and increased the nitrite + nitrate levels in the culture medium. Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between the IGF-I mRNA and the nitrite+nitrate levels. When hepatocytes were cocultured with Kupffer cells, the inhibitory effect of LPS on IGF-I mRNA was higher than in hepatocyte cultures, but the stimulatory effect on nitrite+nitrate was similar in both conditions. The exogenous NO donated by S-nitroso-n-acetyl-d,l-penicillamide also decreased the IGF-I gene expression in hepatocyte cultures. In addition, two specific inducible NO synthase (iNOS) inhibitors, l-N6-(1-iminoethyl)lysine (l-NIL) and aminoguanidine, prevented the effect of LPS on nitrite+nitrate levels and on IGF-I gene expression in hepatocyte cultures. These data indicate that iNOS-derived NO may cause downregulation of IGF-I gene expression in hepatocytes. However, in cocultures, the iNOS inhibitor l-NIL prevented the effect of LPS on nitrite+nitrate levels, but only attenuated the LPS-induced decrease in IGF-I gene expression. We conclude that in hepatocytes, LPS-induced decrease in IGF-I is mainly due to induction of iNOS, whereas in the presence of Kupffer cells LPS inhibits IGF-I through NO release and through other inhibitory pathways.
Foxa1-Deficient Mice Exhibit Impaired Insulin Secretion due to Uncoupled Oxidative Phosphorylation
Authors: Vatamaniuk Marko Z. , Gupta Rana K. , Lantz Kristen A. , Doliba Nicolai M. , Matschinsky Franz M. , Kaestner Klaus H.
Published: September 2006

Foxa1 (formerly hepatic nuclear factor 3α) belongs to the family of Foxa genes that are expressed in early development and takes part in the differentiation of endoderm-derived organs and the regulation of glucose homeostasis. Foxa1−/− pups are growth retarded and hypoglycemic but glucose intolerant in response to an intraperitoneal glucose challenge. However, the mechanism of glucose intolerance in this model has not been investigated. Here, we show that Foxa1−/− islets exhibit decreased glucose-stimulated insulin release in islet perifusion experiments and have significantly reduced pancreatic insulin and glucagon content. Moreover, Foxa1−/− β-cells exhibit attenuated calcium influx in response to glucose and glyburide, suggesting an insulin secretion defect either at the level or upstream of the ATP-sensitive K+ channel. Intracellular ATP levels after incubation with 10 mmol/l glucose were about 2.5 times lower in Foxa1−/− islets compared with controls. This diminished ATP synthesis could be explained by increased expression of the mitochondrial uncoupling protein uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) in Foxa1-deficient islets, resulting in partially uncoupled mitochondria. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicate that UCP2 is a direct transcriptional target of Foxa1 in vivo. Thus, we have identified a novel function for Foxa1 in the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation in pancreatic β-cells.
A Selective Aldose Reductase Inhibitor of a New Structural Class Prevents or Reverses Early Retinal Abnormalities in Experimental Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Sun Wei , Oates Peter J. , Coutcher James B. , Gerhardinger Chiara , Lorenzi Mara
Published: September 2006

Previously studied inhibitors of aldose reductase were largely from two chemical classes, spirosuccinamide/hydantoins and carboxylic acids. Each class has its own drawbacks regarding selectivity, in vivo potency, and human safety; as a result, the pathogenic role of aldose reductase in diabetic retinopathy remains controversial. ARI-809 is a recently discovered aldose reductase inhibitor (ARI) of a new structural class, pyridazinones, and has high selectivity for aldose versus aldehyde reductase. To further test the possible pathogenic role of aldose reductase in the development of diabetic retinopathy, we examined the retinal effects of this structurally novel and highly selective ARI in insulinized streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. ARI-809 treatment was initiated 1 month after diabetes induction and continued for 3 months at a dose that inhibited the polyol pathway in the retina of diabetic rats to a similar extent as sorbinil, a poorly selective hydantoin ARI previously shown to prevent retinopathy in this model. ARI-809 improved survival, inhibited cataract development, normalized retinal sorbitol and fructose, and protected the retina from abnormalities that also occur in human diabetes: neuronal apoptosis, glial reactivity, and complement deposition. Because ARI-809 is a novel chemotype highly selective for aldose reductase, these results support the notion that aldose reductase is the key relay that converts hyperglycemia into glucose toxicity in neural and glial cell types in the retina.
Common Polymorphisms in the Promoter of the Visfatin Gene (PBEF1) Influence Plasma Insulin Levels in a French-Canadian Population
Authors: Bailey Swneke D. , Loredo-Osti J C. , Lepage Pierre , Faith Janet , Fontaine Joelle , Desbiens Katia M. , Hudson Thomas J. , Bouchard Claude , Gaudet Daniel , Pérusse Louis , Vohl Marie-Claude , Engert James C.
Published: September 2006

The adipokine visfatin (PBEF1) exhibits insulin-mimetic effects and correlates strongly with visceral adiposity. We sequenced visfatin gene exons and 1,480 bp of the promoter in 23 individuals, including 18 individuals from the Quebec Family Study (QFS) with varying degrees of abdominal visceral fat, assessed by computed tomography, and 5 individuals from the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region of Québec. We identified a synonymous polymorphism in exon 7 (SER301SER) but no nonsynonymous mutations. We observed an additional 10 polymorphisms, including 5 intronic, 4 within the promoter, and 1 within the 3′ untranslated region. Further promoter sequencing (816 bp) identified five additional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the QFS population. To investigate the role of visfatin gene variants in obesity-related phenotypes, we genotyped a total of 13 SNPs in the promoter region of the gene. From these, we analyzed the seven common SNPs in the QFS sample (918 participants from 208 families). A significant association was found between two SNPs (rs9770242 and rs1319501), in perfect linkage disequilibrium, and fasting insulin levels (P = 0.002). These SNPs were also associated with fasting glucose (P ≤ 0.02). In addition, a more distal SNP (rs7789066) was significantly associated with the apolipoprotein B component of VLDL (P = 0.012).
STAT5 Activity in Pancreatic β-Cells Influences the Severity of Diabetes in Animal Models of Type 1 and 2 Diabetes
Authors: Jackerott Malene , Møldrup Annette , Thams Peter , Galsgaard Elisabeth D. , Knudsen Jakob , Lee Ying C. , Nielsen Jens Høiriis
Published: September 2006

Pancreatic β-cell growth and survival and insulin production are stimulated by growth hormone and prolactin through activation of the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)5. To assess the role of STAT5 activity in β-cells in vivo, we generated transgenic mice that expressed a dominant-negative mutant of STAT5a (DNSTAT5) or constitutive active mutant of STAT5b (CASTAT5) under control of the rat insulin 1 promoter (RIP). When subjected to a high-fat diet, RIP-DNSTAT5 mice showed higher body weight, increased plasma glucose levels, and impairment of glucose tolerance, whereas RIP-CASTAT5 mice were more glucose tolerant and less hyperleptinemic than wild-type mice. Although the pancreatic insulin content and relative β-cell area were increased in high-fat diet–fed RIP-DNSTAT5 mice compared with wild-type or RIP-CASTAT5 mice, RIP-DNSTAT5 mice showed reduced β-cell proliferation at 6 months of age. The inhibitory effect of high-fat diet or leptin on insulin secretion was diminished in isolated islets from RIP-DNSTAT5 mice compared with wild-type islets. Upon multiple low-dose streptozotocin treatment, RIP-DNSTAT5 mice exhibited higher plasma glucose levels, lower plasma insulin levels, and lower pancreatic insulin content than wild-type mice, whereas RIP-CASTAT5 mice maintained higher levels of plasma insulin. In conclusion, our results indicate that STAT5 activity in β-cells influences the susceptibility to experimentally induced type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Identification of Insulin Signaling Elements in Human β-Cells
Authors: Muller Dany , Huang Guo Cai , Amiel Stephanie , Jones Peter M. , Persaud Shanta J.
Published: September 2006

Although many studies using rodent islets and insulinoma cell lines have been performed to determine the role of insulin in the regulation of islet function, the autocrine effect of insulin on insulin gene expression is still controversial, and no consensus has yet been achieved. Because very little is known about the insulin signaling pathway in human islets, we used single-cell RT-PCR to profile the expression of genes potentially involved in the insulin signaling cascade in human β-cells. The detection of mRNAs for insulin receptor (IR)A and IRB; insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1 and IRS-2; phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) catalytic subunits p110α, p110β, PI3KC2α, and PI3KC2γ; phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1; protein kinase B (PKB)α, PKBβ, and PKBγ in the β-cell population suggests the presence of a functional insulin signaling cascade in human β-cells. Small interfering RNA–induced reductions in IR expression in human islets completely suppressed glucose-stimulated insulin gene expression, suggesting that insulin regulates its own gene expression in human β-cells. Defects in this regulation may accentuate the metabolic dysfunction associated with type 2 diabetes.
IL6 Gene Promoter Polymorphisms and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Huth Cornelia , Heid Iris M. , Vollmert Caren , Gieger Christian , Grallert Harald , Wolford Johanna K. , Langer Birgit , Thorand Barbara , Klopp Norman , Hamid Yasmin H. , Pedersen Oluf , Hansen Torben , Lyssenko Valeriya , Groop Leif , Meisinger Christa , Döring Angela , Löwel Hannelore , Lieb Wolfgang , Hengstenberg Christian , Rathmann Wolfgang , Martin Stephan , Stephens Jeffrey W. , Ireland Helen , Mather Hugh , Miller George J. , Stringham Heather M. , Boehnke Michael , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Boeing Heiner , Möhlig Matthias , Spranger Joachim , Pfeiffer Andreas , Wernstedt Ingrid , Niklason Anders , López-Bermejo Abel , Fernández-Real José-Manuel , Hanson Robert L. , Gallart Luis , Vendrell Joan , Tsiavou Anastasia , Hatziagelaki Erifili , Humphries Steve E. , Wichmann H.-Erich , Herder Christian , Illig Thomas
Published: September 2006

Several lines of evidence indicate a causal role of the cytokine interleukin (IL)-6 in the development of type 2 diabetes in humans. Two common polymorphisms in the promoter of the IL-6 encoding gene IL6, −174G>C (rs1800795) and −573G>C (rs1800796), have been investigated for association with type 2 diabetes in numerous studies but with results that have been largely equivocal. To clarify the relationship between the two IL6 variants and type 2 diabetes, we analyzed individual data on >20,000 participants from 21 published and unpublished studies. Collected data represent eight different countries, making this the largest association analysis for type 2 diabetes reported to date. The GC and CC genotypes of IL6 −174G>C were associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 0.91, P = 0.037), corresponding to a risk modification of nearly 9%. No evidence for association was found between IL6 −573G>C and type 2 diabetes. The observed association of the IL6 −174 C-allele with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes provides further evidence for the hypothesis that immune mediators are causally related to type 2 diabetes; however, because the association is borderline significant, additional data are still needed to confirm this finding.
Brain Aging in Very Old Men With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Korf Esther S.C. , White Lon R. , Scheltens Ph , Launer Lenore J.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—Type 2 diabetes leads to cognitive impairment and dementia, which may reflect microvascular and macrovascular complications as well as neurodegenerative processes. There are few studies on the anatomical basis for loss of cognitive function in type 2 diabetes. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between type 2 diabetes and markers of brain aging on magnetic resonance images, including infarcts, lacunes, and white matter hyperintensities as markers of vascular damage and general and hippocampal atrophy as markers of neurodegeneration in Japanese-American men born between 1900 and 1919 and followed since 1965 in the Honolulu-Asia Aging Study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Prevalent and incident dementia was assessed. Associations between magnetic resonance imaging markers and diabetic status were estimated with logistic regression, controlling for sociodemographic and other vascular factors.

RESULTS—The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the cohort is 38%. Subjects with type 2 diabetes had a moderately elevated risk for lacunes (odds ratio [OR] 1.6 [95% CI 1.0–2.6]) and hippocampal atrophy (1.7 [0.9–2.9]). The risk for both hippocampal atrophy and lacunes/infarcts was twice as high in subjects with compared with those without type 2 diabetes. Among the group with type 2 diabetes, those with the longest duration of diabetes, those taking insulin, and those with complications had relatively more pathologic brain changes.

CONCLUSIONS—There is evidence that older individuals with type 2 diabetes have an elevated risk for vascular brain damage and neurodegenerative changes. These pathological changes may be the anatomical basis for an increased risk of cognitive impairment or dementia in type 2 diabetes.
The Xylosyltransferase I Gene Polymorphism c.343G>T (p.A125S) Is a Risk Factor for Diabetic Nephropathy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Schön Sylvia , Prante Christian , Bahr Claudia , Tarnow Lise , Kuhn Joachim , Kleesiek Knut , Götting Christian
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—Xylosyltransferase I (XT-I) is the chain-initiating enzyme in the biosynthesis of proteoglycans in basement membranes. It catalyzes the transfer of xylose to selected serine residues in the core protein. The XYLT-II gene codes for a protein highly homologous to XT-I. Proteoglycans are important components of basement membranes and are responsible for their permeability properties. Type 1 diabetic patients have an altered proteoglycan metabolism, which results in microvascular complications. Thus, genetic variations in the xylosyltransferase genes might be implicated in the initiation and progression of these complications.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Genotyping of four genetic variations in the genes XYLT-I and XYLT-II was performed in 912 type 1 diabetic patients (453 with and 459 without diabetic nephropathy) using restriction fragment–length polymorphism.

RESULTS—The distribution of the c.343G>T polymorphism in XYLT-I is significantly different between patients with and without diabetic nephropathy (P = 0.03). T-alleles were more frequent in patients with diabetic nephropathy (odds ratio 2.47 [95% CI 1.04–5.83]). The allelic frequencies of the other investigated XYLT-I and XYLT-II variations (XYLT-I: c.1989T>C in exon 9; XYLT-II: IVS6–9T>C and IVS6–14_IVS6–13insG in intron 5; and c.2402C>G: p.T801R in exon 11) were not different between patients with and without diabetic nephropathy.

CONCLUSIONS—The XYLT-I c.343G>T polymorphism contributes to the genetic susceptibility to development of diabetic nephropathy in type 1 diabetic patients.
Prevention of Hypoglycemia During Exercise in Children With Type 1 Diabetes by Suspending Basal Insulin
Authors:   the Diabetes Research in Children Network (DirecNet) Study Group
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—Strategies for preventing hypoglycemia during exercise in children with type 1 diabetes have not been well studied. The Diabetes Research in Children Network (DirecNet) Study Group conducted a study to determine whether stopping basal insulin could reduce the frequency of hypoglycemia occurring during exercise.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Using a randomized crossover design, 49 children 8–17 years of age with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump therapy were studied during structured exercise sessions on 2 days. On day 1, basal insulin was stopped during exercise, and on day 2 it was continued. Each exercise session, performed from ∼4:00–5:00 p.m., consisted of four 15-min treadmill cycles at a target heart rate of 140 bpm (interspersed with three 5-min rest breaks over 75 min), followed by a 45-min observation period. Frequently sampled glucose concentrations (measured in the DirecNet Central Laboratory) were measured before, during, and after the exercise.

RESULTS—Hypoglycemia (≤70 mg/dl) during exercise occurred less frequently when the basal insulin was discontinued than when it was continued (16 vs. 43%; P = 0.003). Hyperglycemia (increase from baseline of ≥20% to ≥200 mg/dl) 45 min after the completion of exercise was more frequent without basal insulin (27 vs. 4%; P = 0.002). There were no cases of abnormal blood ketone levels.

CONCLUSIONS—Discontinuing basal insulin during exercise is an effective strategy for reducing hypoglycemia in children with type 1 diabetes, but the risk of hyperglycemia is increased.
Psychological Outcomes of Patients With Screen-Detected Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Thoolen Bart J. , de Ridder Denise T. , Bensing Jozien M. , Gorter Kees J. , Rutten Guy E.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—The objective of this study was to investigate how time since diagnosis and treatment intensity influence psychological outcomes in patients with screen-detected type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A 2 × 2 factorial cross-sectional design was used to examine psychological outcomes in 196 patients with screen-detected diabetes diagnosed 3–33 months previously who were receiving usual care or intensive multifactorial pharmacological treatment. Outcomes included anxiety, depression, diabetes-related distress, perceived seriousness and vulnerability, self-efficacy, and self-care. Multivariate analysis was used to examine variations in outcomes based on time since diagnosis (<1 vs. 2–3 years) and treatment intensity.

RESULTS—Most patients reported little distress, low perceived seriousness and vulnerability, high self-efficacy, and low self-care, but outcomes varied considerably across conditions. Time effects were found for perceived vulnerability, which increases significantly with time since diagnosis. Time × treatment interactions were found for anxiety, diabetes-related distress, and self-efficacy; notably, intensively treated patients showed more distress and less self-efficacy in the 1st year, and usual-care patients reported more distress and less self-efficacy 2–3 years after diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS—Screen-detected patients generally do not experience much difficulty with their condition in the first few years, but early and intensive treatment can influence patients’ psychological outcomes, leading to relatively more anxiety and less self-efficacy in the 1st year after diagnosis but not necessarily improving self-care. This suggests that intensive treatments confront patients with their diabetes earlier on whereas milder treatments may delay confrontation. This finding should be taken into account in the development and timing of psychological interventions for patients with newly diagnosed diabetes.
Adequacy of Glycemic Control in Hemodialysis Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Tascona Daniel J. , Morton A. Ross , Toffelmire Edwin B. , Holland David C. , Iliescu Eduard A.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—We sought to measure the prevalence of inadequate glycemic control in prevalent hemodialysis patients with diabetes and to examine independent predictors of inadequate glycemic control in these patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—This is a cross-sectional study of prevalent hemodialysis patients with diabetes in southeastern Ontario (n = 100). Data were collected by chart review and interview. The outcome variable was inadequate glycemic control defined as HbA1c (A1C) >0.07. Other measured variables were diabetes type, diabetes duration, diabetes physician, blood glucose monitoring, diabetes medications, BMI, time on dialysis, and other demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables.

RESULTS—Fifty-four patients had A1C >0.07. In bivariate analysis, these patients had a longer diabetes duration (23.6 vs.14.7 years, P < 0.001), higher proportion with insulin use (81.5 vs. 58.7%, P = 0.012), higher proportion with microvascular complications (66.7 vs. 43.5%, P = 0.017), and lower erythropoietin (EPO) dose (7.0 vs. 11.9 × 103 units/week, P < 0.01) than patients with adequate glycemic control. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of macrovascular complications (59.3 vs. 65.2%, P = 0.54). In multiple logistic regression controlling for age and diabetes type, the diabetes duration (odds ratio 1.09 [95% CI 1.04–1.15], P < 0.001), EPO dose (0.90 [0.85–0.97], P < 0.01), and blood glucose monitoring (10.06 [1.03–98.74], P = 0.05) were the only significant independent predictors of A1C >0.07.

CONCLUSIONS—A high proportion of hemodialysis patients with diabetes had inadequate glycemic control, particularly those with longstanding disease. Patients with inadequate glycemic control had a significantly higher burden of microvascular complications.
Mortality and Hospitalization in Patients After Amputation
Authors: Schofield Christopher J. , Libby Gillian , Brennan Geraldine M. , MacAlpine Ritchie R. , Morris Andrew D. , Leese Graham P. ,   for the DARTS/MEMO Collaboration
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—We sought to compare the risk of mortality and hospitalization between patients with and without diabetes following incident lower-extremity amputation (LEA).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We performed a retrospective data-linkage review of all incident amputations between 1 January 1992 and 31 December 1995. Patients were categorized according to their diabetes status. Follow-up for mortality was until 1 January 2005 and until 31 March 1996 for hospitalization.

RESULTS—Of 390 major-incident LEAs performed during the study period, 119 (30.5%) were in patients with diabetes and 271 (69.5%) were in nondiabetic subjects. The median time to death was 27.2 months in patients with diabetes compared with 46.7 months for patients without (P = 0.01). Diabetic subjects had a 55% greater risk of death than those without diabetes. The risk of developing congestive cardiac failure with diabetes was 2.26 (95% CI 1.12–4.57) and of further amputation was 1.95 (1.14–3.33) times that of a patient without diabetes after incident LEA.

CONCLUSIONS—After LEA, patients with diabetes have an increased risk of death compared with nondiabetic patients. Efforts should be made to minimize these risks with aggressive treatment of cardiovascular risk factors and management of cardiac failure.
Vitamin D Status and Glucose Homeostasis in the 1958 British Birth Cohort
Authors: Hyppönen Elina , Power Chris
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE—Obesity is a well-known risk factor for vitamin D deficiency. We evaluated the interrelationship between vitamin D status, body size, and glucose homeostasis, measured by HbA1c (A1C).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Data are from the survey of the 45-year-old 1958 British birth cohort (2002–2004). Information on A1C, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D; an indicator of vitamin D status], and BMI was collected from 7,198 Caucasian subjects.

RESULTS—25(OH)D was <75 nmol/l in 80% of the obese subjects (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) versus 68% of the other subjects (P < 0.0001). Serum 25(OH)D decreased and A1C increased by increasing BMI (P < 0.0001 for both comparisons). There was a nonlinear association between 25(OH)D and A1C: a steep linear decrease in A1C by 25(OH)D until 65 nmol/l and only smaller decreases with further increases. There was evidence for effect modification by BMI in the association between 25(OH)D and A1C (P < 0.0001), and differences appeared stronger for participants with higher compared with lower BMIs. After adjustment for sex, season, geographical location, physical activity, and social class, percent change in A1C by 10-nmol/l increase in 25(OH)D was −0.21 (95% CI −0.31 to −0.11) for BMI <25 kg/m2, −0.25 (−0.37 to −0.13) for BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2, −0.65 (−0.95 to −0.34) for BMI 30–34.9 kg/m2, and −1.37 (−2.09 to −0.64) for BMI ≥35 kg/m2.

CONCLUSIONS—Body size was a strong determinant for 25(OH)D, with concentrations being suboptimal in most obese participants. Randomized controlled trials [using dosages sufficient to improve 25(OH)D also for the obese] are required to determine whether clinically relevant improvements in glucose metabolism can be obtained by vitamin D supplementation.
Breast-Feeding and Risk for Childhood Obesity
Authors: Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J. , Rifas-Shiman Sheryl L. , Zhou Li , Hu Frank B. , Colditz Graham A. , Gillman Matthew W.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVE— We sought to evaluate whether maternal diabetes or weight status attenuates a previously reported beneficial effect of breast-feeding on childhood obesity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— Growing Up Today Study (GUTS) participants were offspring of women who participated in the Nurses’ Health Study II. In the present study, 15,253 girls and boys (aged 9–14 years in 1996) were included. Maternal diabetes and weight status and infant feeding were obtained by maternal self-report. We defined maternal overweight as BMI ≥25 kg/m2. Childhood obesity, from self-reported height and weight, was based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions as normal, at risk for overweight, or overweight. Maternal status categories were nondiabetes/normal weight, nondiabetes/overweight, or diabetes. Logistic regression models used generalized estimating equations to account for nonindependence between siblings.

RESULTS— For all subjects combined, breast-feeding was associated with reduced overweight (compared with normal weight) in childhood. Compared with exclusive use of formula, the odds ratio (OR) for exclusive breast-feeding was 0.66 (95% CI 0.53–0.82), adjusted for age, sex, and Tanner stage. Results did not differ according to maternal status (nondiabetes/normal weight OR 0.73 [95% CI 0.49–1.09]; nondiabetes/overweight 0.75 [0.57–0.99]; and diabetes 0.62 [0.24–1.60]). Further adjustment for potential confounders attenuated results, but results remained consistent across strata of maternal status (P value for interaction was 0.50).

CONCLUSIONS— Breast-feeding was inversely associated with childhood obesity regardless of maternal diabetes status or weight status. These data provide support for all mothers to breast-feed their infants to reduce the risk for childhood overweight.
Electrodeposition of mercury film on electrodes modified with clay minerals
Authors: Navrátilová Z. , Vaculíková L.
Published: September 2006

A new type of carbon paste electrode modified with clay mineral and covered with a mercury film is presented in this work. Electrodeposition of the mercury film was performed on the carbon paste electrode modified with montmorillonite. The mercury film was deposited by both electrodeposition in situ and a preliminary electrodeposition. The pre-deposited film of mercury showed to be suitable for anodic stripping voltammetry. An open-circuit sorption of Cd, Pb, and Cu with subsequent anodic stripping voltammetry exhibited higher current responses of metals. Besides the enhanced sensitivity superior separation of the current responses during a simultaneous stripping of metals is expected to be achieved by means of the newly prepared electrode.
Effect of span 20 concentration on oxalic acid production from post-refining fatty acids by Aspergillus niger XP
Authors: Musial I. , Rymowicz W. , Witkowska D.
Published: September 2006

Submerged fermentation experiments were carried out to study the stimulating effects of the surfactant Span 20 on the growth of Aspergillus niger XP mutant and oxalic acid production from the post-refining fatty acids. Span 20 concentration of 0.75 g dm−3 was found to be the most suitable for oxalic acid production from fatty acids. Using this dose and a fermentation medium containing 30 g dm−3 of post-refining fatty acids, the oxalic acid production, oxalate yield, and overall oxalate productivity were the highest.
The Effect of Compaction Method on the Expansion and Stability of Aluminium Foams
Authors: Asavavisithchai S. , Kennedy A. R.
Published: September 2006

The foam expansion and collapse behaviour for heat treated Al‐TiH2 precursors has been shown to be driven by the oxidation of the Al powder, which can, in moderation, improve the foam expansion and increase foam stability, and the premature loss of gas from the TiH2, which delays but decreases the foam expansion. The evidence presented indicates that as long as theoretical precursor densities > 99 % can be achieved, simultaneous heating and compaction are not required to achieve the best foaming behaviour. Instead, the oxygen or oxide content in the powder is critical and if the oxygen content in the atomised powder is in the range 0.3–0.4 wt.%, cold compaction is sufficient to produce foams which show expansions at least as good as those for precursors made by high cost hot working processes.
The Mechanism of Strength Enhancement under Impact Loading of Cellular Materials
Authors: Zhao H. , Elnasri I. , Li H.J.
Published: September 2006

This paper presents a multiscale analysis of the macroscopic rate sensitivity of metallic cellular materials. It begins with a review of likely causes responsible for the strength enhancement of cellular materials, which include the rate sensitivity of the base material, the effects of the pressure of the air entrapped in the cell, the inertia effect and the shock enhancement. A testing method using 60 mm diameter Nylon Hopkinson pressure bars with suitable signal processing is used to investigate the rate sensitivity of various metallic cellular materials, i.e. 5056, 5052 aluminium honeycombs of different cell sizes and wall thickness, IFAM and Cymat aluminium foams. In order to identify the factor responsible for the strength enhancement of those materials, a multiscale analysis is performed on a model structure which is a square tube made of rate insensitive materials. At the macroscopic level, significant enhancement is experimentally observed under impact loading, whereas the crushing mode is nearly the same under both static and impact loading. At mesoscopic level, post mortem microhardess measurement provides a map of residual plastic strain everywhere in the cell wall. Numeric simulations and theoretical models give a satisfactory explanation of the role of the lateral inertia.
Metal Foams: Production and Stability
Authors: Banhart J.
Published: September 2006

Liquid metal foam can be generated by creating gas inside a liquid or semi‐liquid metallic melt which has been pre‐treated in a suitable way. Such foams are self‐supporting disordered structures in complete analogy to aqueous foams. The stabilisation mechanism of metallic foams is still not fully understood. In order to facilitate discussion of foam stabilisation the various methods for making such foams are classified with respect to the mode of gas generation and the type of melt used for foaming. Metal foams can be produced by gas injection from an external source or by in‐situ nucleation of gas bubbles in the melt for which various possibilities are known. Melts amenable to foaming range from almost pure molten alloys to melts to which particles have been added, formed by in‐situ reactions or which have been already present in the solid precursor prior to melting. Some of the available experimental evidence for the action of stabilising particles in metallic foams is presented. It is found that although stabilisation seems to be based on the presence of a solid constituent in all the foaming processes, the mechanisms might vary. At present the nature of stabilisation is not yet fully understood and many questions remain open.
Powder Compaction Effect on Foaming Behavior of Uni‐Axial Pressed PM Precursors
Authors: Bonaccorsi L. , Proverbio E.
Published: September 2006

A study on foaming behaviour of metal powder precursors compacted by cold uni‐axial compression is reported. PM precursors have been produced by pressing the aluminum powders in a cylindrical die, under single or double compaction. Billet densification was characterized by testing the green sample cross‐sections by micro‐hardness measurements. The so obtained hardness maps were correlated to the foamed sample. The results demonstrated the fundamental role played on the powder densification by wall‐die frictions during the compaction operations. Best results were obtained from billets compacted by the double pressing action in a lubricated die. Finally, double compacted pellets were prepared from aluminum powders milled for different times and the pore morphology of the resulting foamed samples was evaluated in terms of cell circularity. The powder granulometry resulted to be an other important parameter influencing the green densification and the final foam quality.
Ultrasonically Welded Aluminium Foams/Sheet Metal – Joints
Authors: Born C. , Wagner G. , Eifler D.
Published: September 2006

The ultrasonic welding technology enables to produce high‐strength joints between sheet metal and aluminium foam sandwich (AFS) without melting of the metal or any damage of the foam structure. In the investigations the used welding processes and different factors influencing the weldability were varied. The achievable mechanical properties for ultrasonically welded metal joints, especially under monotonic and cyclic load, will be discussed. Additionally, results of microscopic investigations of the bonding zone and possible applications are presented.
Machine Tools With Metal Foams
Authors: Neugebauer R. , Hipke T.
Published: September 2006

Machine tool construction calls for subassemblies with reduced weight while retaining excellent dynamic properties. Modern frame components do always meet required static stiffness but often display oscillation problems due to low component wall thicknesses. Breaking down solid steel structure into wide‐area sandwich designs such as steel‐aluminum foam‐steel panels results in good static properties to be combined with excellent properties since these sandwiches have 30 to 40 times the flexural strength. This is due to their major geometrical moment of inertia in relation to adequate‐mass steel sheet metals. In addition, the foam core dampens oscillations. Studies on foamed steel sections indicate that 2 to 3 times higher damping is likely in relation to unfoamed steel sections. These benefits were the motivation for the Chemnitz Metal Foam Center to accelerate development of extremely large‐format sandwiches with dimensions of 1,500 × 1,000 mm2.
Web‐based design and manufacturing systems for micromachining: Comparison of architecture and usability
Authors: Kim Hyung‐Jung , Chu Won‐Shik , Ahn Sung‐Hoon , Kim Dong‐Soo , Jun Cha‐Soo
Published: September 2006

In this paper, web‐based micromachining systems are compared with a commercial CAD/CAM system from the point of educational usability. The web‐based systems included in this study were MIcromachining System (MIMS) and SmartFab. In the MIMS architecture, a 3D model in STL format was read using the web browser, the file was sent to the web server where toolpath planner was located, and the NC code was reviewed by the designer through the web connection. In the SmartFab system, SolidWorks was used as the design interface with modified menus that support input parameters for micromachining. This additional function was available by SolidWorks API that provided links to the same toolpath planner as MIMS. In the commercial CAD/CAM case, without using any web connection, SolidWorks and CATIA were used for design, and PowerMill was used as a CAM tool. For each system, accessibility, user‐friendliness, toolpath‐reliability, and processing time were compared. Total of 91 students tested these systems in an undergraduate CAD class, and the user's feedback showed better performance of the web‐based system in accessibility, user‐friendliness, and processing time. However, reliability of the web‐based system should be improved to be more useful design and manufacturing system. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 14: 169–177, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20076
A web‐based tool for control engineering teaching
Authors: Méndez J. Albino , Lorenzo César , Acosta Leopoldo , Torres Santiago , González Evelio
Published: September 2006

In this article a new tool for control engineering teaching is presented. The tool was implemented using Java applets and is freely accessible through Web. It allows the analysis and simulation of linear control systems and was created to complement the theoretical lectures in basic control engineering courses. The article is not only centered in the description of the tool but also in the methodology to use it and its evaluation in an electrical engineering degree. Two practical problems are included in the manuscript to illustrate the use of the main functions implemented. The developed web‐based tool can be accessed through the link http://www.controlweb.cyc.ull.es. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 14: 178–187, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20080
A virtual electrical drive control laboratory: Neuro‐fuzzy control of induction motors
Authors: Gökbulut Muammer , Bal Cafer , Dandil Beşir
Published: September 2006

Neural and fuzzy courses are widely offered at graduate and undergraduate level due to the successful applications of neural and fuzzy control to nonlinear and unmodeled dynamic systems, including electrical drives. However, teaching students a neuro‐fuzzy controlled electrical drive in a laboratory environment is often difficult for schools with limited access to expensive equipment facilities. Therefore, computer simulations and dedicated software are needed to assist the students in visualizing the concepts and to provide graphical feedback during the learning process. In this article, an educational software is proposed for the neuro‐fuzzy control of induction machine drives. The tool helps students learn the application of neuro‐fuzzy control of electrical drives. The software has a flexible structure and graphical user interface. The neuro‐fuzzy architecture, the motor and load parameters can be easily changed in the developed software. Neuro‐fuzzy control performance of induction motors can be monitored graphically for various control structures and current controllers Comput Appl Eng Educ 14: 211–221, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20082
About being Mununga (Whitefulla): making covert group racism visible
Authors: Kessaris Terry Ngarritjan
Published: September 2006

The main focus of this paper is to expose what goes on between Mununga (White people) in Australia that contributes to the maintenance of racism in hidden and often unconscious ways. Mununga racism in Australia commonly occurs as normal, shared, social activity amongst ordinary, decent, Mununga folk, and it is covert and linked to colonial beliefs and practices. In this context, Mununga are co‐opted by their own society to oppress others, particularly Blekbala (Indigenous people). However, some challenge that custom and strive to step outside their prevailing social practices. The processes of being co‐opted into and challenging colonial practices are explored through the counter‐narratives of Mununga allies who are engaged in the work of anti‐racism and decolonization. Using an outsider Blekbala perspective with the help of Mununga insider perspectives, I put forward a description and critique of these covert, social practices under the themes of ‘Making, unmaking and remaking the Mununga self’, ‘Deep shared understandings’, ‘Violence, silence and benevolence’, ‘Unconstrained Mununga talk’ and ‘Turning things around’. This is a Black story of White on White. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Third spaces within tertiary places: indigenous Australian studies
Authors: Dudgeon Pat , Fielder John
Published: September 2006

This paper explores the notion of decolonisation by outlining the way in which Indigenous Australians are creating space within tertiary institutions as part of a broader project of cultural renaissance. We explore what ‘creating space’ means in terms of de Certeau's distinction between place and space, and also Bhabha's notion of ‘the third space’. We examine two instances of creating space. Firstly, we outline the general way in which Indigenist intellectuals have opened up space within the western domain of academia in Australia. Secondly, we refer to a specific Indigenous studies programme as a constructivist, process‐oriented approach to teaching and learning at Curtin University of Technology in Western Australia. While little direct reference is made to psychology in this paper, we suggest that third spaces are created as ways of thinking and doing, as social and psychological, connected to individual agency and political action as part of making space within everyday institutional life. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Florida's dual enrollment initiative: How state policy influences community colleges' service to underrepresented youth
Authors: Hunt Erika , Carroll Charles E.
Published: September 2006

This chapter presents an overview of Florida's Accelerated Mechanism Program, identifies challenges that resulted from shifting intentions behind dual enrollment policies, and shows how evolving state policy has influenced the strategies used by one college to successfully enroll underserved students and support their transition to college.
How students benefit from high‐tech, high‐wage career pathways
Authors: Draeger Meg
Published: September 2006

The Miami Valley Tech Prep Consortium, headquartered at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio, engages a wide range of students in Tech Prep pathways that span high school and college. Students are offered a blend of technical and academic coursework, as well as extensive supports enhanced by a sophisticated professional development system. The outcomes include low rates of remediation and high rates of graduation, employment, and transfer to four‐year institutions.
FeP: Another Attractive Anode for the Li‐Ion Battery Enlisting a Reversible Two‐Step Insertion/Conversion Process.
Authors: Boyanov S. , Bernardi J. , Gillot F. , Dupont L. , Womes M. , Tarascon J.‐M. , Monconduit L. , Doublet M.‐L.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Remarkable Improvement of Hydrogen Sorption Kinetics in Magnesium Catalyzed with Nb2O5.
Authors: Hanada Nobuko , Ichikawa Takayuki , Hino Satoshi , Fujii Hironobu
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Preparation of Y3Al5O12:Sm Powders by Microwave‐Induced Combustion Process and Their Luminescent Properties.
Authors: Tsao Shen , Fu Yen‐Pei , Hu Chen‐Ti
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis, Characterization and Fluorescence Study of Eu(III) Tungstates and Molybdates.
Authors: de Farias Robson F. , Airoldi Claudio , Belian Monica F. , Alvres Severino Jr.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
[Me4N]3[(WOS3)2Ag]×MeCN — An Acetonitrile Solvate with Linear Complex Anions.
Authors: Dilshad Rahima , Boller Herbert , Klepp Kurt O.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Trichloroisocyanuric Acid/KBr as a Catalytic System for the Chemoselective Oxidation of Benzylic and Secondary Alcohols.
Authors: Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Shirini Farhad , Choghamarani Arash Ghorbani
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
One‐Pot Conversion of Activated Alcohols into 1,1‐Dibromoalkenes and Terminal Alkynes Using Tandem Oxidation Processes with Manganese Dioxide.
Authors: Quesada Ernesto , Raw Steven A. , Reid Mark , Roman Estelle , Taylor Richard J. K.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Functional Group Scope in the Methylene‐Free, Tandem Enyne Metathesis.
Authors: Peppers Brian P. , Kulkarni Amol A. , Diver Steven T.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Polyketide Precursors Containing an anti‐1,3‐Diol System via a Prins Cyclization and Reductive Cleavage Sequence.
Authors: Yadav J. S. , Reddy M. Sridhar , Prasad A. R.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Guanidine Alkylation
Authors: Larionova I. A. , Golounin A. V. , Sokolenko V. A.
Published: September 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.