bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes Abolishes Morphine-Induced Cardioprotection via Multiple Pathways Upstream of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β
Authors: Gross Eric R. , Hsu Anna K. , Gross Garrett J.
Published: December 2006

The cardioprotective effect of opioids or glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) inhibitors given at reperfusion has not been investigated in diabetes models. Therefore, nondiabetic (NDBR) or streptozotocin-induced diabetic (DBR) rat hearts were subjected to 30 min of ischemia and 2 h of reperfusion. Groups of NDBR or DBR were administered either vehicle, morphine (0.3 mg/kg), or the GSK inhibitor SB216763 (0.6 mg/kg) 5 min before reperfusion. SB216763 (but not morphine) reduced infarct size in DBRs (44 ± 1* and 55 ± 2%, respectively), while both agents reduced infarct size in NDBRs versus untreated NDBRs or DBRs (44 ± 3*, 42 ± 3*, 60 ± 2, and 56 ± 2%, respectively, *P < 0.001). Morphine-induced phospho- (P-)GSK3β was reduced 5 min after reperfusion in DBRs compared with NDBRs (0.83 ± 0.29 and 1.94 ± 0.12 [P < 0.05] pg/μg tissue, respectively). The GSK3β mediators, P-Akt, P–extracellular signal–related kinase (ERK)1, and P–signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3, were also significantly reduced in untreated DBR compared with NDBR rats. Morphine-induced elevations of P-Akt, P-ERK1, P-p70s6, P–janus-activated kinase-2, and P-STAT3 in NDBRs were also blunted in DBRs. H9C2 cells raised in 25 mmol/l compared with 5.56 mmol/l glucose media also demonstrated reduced morphine-induced P-GSK3β, P-Akt, P-STAT3, and P-ERK1 after 15 min. Hence, acute GSK inhibition may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for diabetic patients during an acute myocardial infarction, whereas morphine is less effective due to signaling events that adversely affect GSK3β.
Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor-γ Regulates Expression of PDX-1 and NKX6.1 in INS-1 Cells
Authors: Moibi Jacob A. , Gupta Dhananjay , Jetton Thomas L. , Peshavaria Mina , Desai Ronak , Leahy Jack L.
Published: December 2006

In the 60% pancreatectomy (Px) rat model of β-cell adaptation, normoglycemia is maintained by an initial week of β-cell hyperplasia that ceases and is followed by enhanced β-cell function. It is unknown how this complex series of events is regulated. We studied isolated islets and pancreas sections from 14-day post-Px versus sham-operated rats and observed a doubling of β-cell nuclear peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor (PPAR)-γ protein, along with a 2-fold increase in nuclear pancreatic duodenal homeobox (Pdx)-1 protein and a 1.4-fold increase in β-cell nuclear Nkx6.1 immunostaining. As PPAR-γ activation is known to both lower proliferation and have prodifferentiation effects in many tissues, we studied PPAR-γ actions in INS-1 cells. A 3-day incubation with the PPAR-γ agonist troglitazone reduced proliferation and increased Pdx-1 and Nkx6.1 immunostaining, along with glucokinase and GLUT2. Also, a 75% knockdown of PPAR-γ using RNA interference lowered the mRNA levels of Pdx-1, glucokinase, GLUT2, and proinsulin II by more than half. Our results show a dual effect of PPAR-γ in INS-1 cells: to curtail proliferation and promote maturation, the latter via enhanced expression of Pdx-1 and Nkx6.1. Additional studies are needed to determine whether there is a regulatory role for PPAR-γ signaling in the β-cell adaptation following a 60% Px in rats.
Antecedent Hindbrain Glucoprivation Does Not Impair the Counterregulatory Response to Hypoglycemia
Authors: Sanders Nicole M. , Taborsky Gerald J. , Wilkinson Charles W. , Daumen Wendi , Figlewicz Dianne P.
Published: December 2006

Recurrent hypoglycemia impairs hormonal counterregulatory responses (CRRs) to further bouts of hypoglycemia. The hypothalamus and hindbrain are both critical for sensing hypoglycemia and triggering CRRs. Hypothalamic glucose sensing sites are implicated in the pathogenesis of defective CRRs; however, the contribution of hindbrain glucose sensing has not been elucidated. Using a rat model, we compared the effect of antecedent glucoprivation targeting hindbrain or hypothalamic glucose sensing sites with the effect of antecedent recurrent hypoglycemia on CRR to hypoglycemia induced 24 h later. Recurrent hypoglycemia decreased sympathoadrenal (1,470 ± 325 vs. 3,811 ± 540 pg/ml in controls [t = 60 min], P = 0.001) and glucagon secretion (222 ± 43 vs. 494 ± 56 pg/ml in controls [t = 60]), P = 0.003) in response to hypoglycemia. Antecedent 5-thio-glucose (5TG) injected into the hindbrain did not impair sympathoadrenal (3,806 ± 344 pg/ml [t = 60]) or glucagon (513 ± 56 pg/ml [t = 60]) responses to subsequent hypoglycemia. However, antecedent 5TG delivered into the third ventricle was sufficient to blunt CRRs to hypoglycemia. These results show that hindbrain glucose sensing is not involved in the development of defective CRRs. However, neural substrates surrounding the third ventricle are particularly sensitive to glucoprivic stimulation and may contribute importantly to the development of defective CRRs.
Islet-Derived Fibroblast-Like Cells Are Not Derived via Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition From Pdx-1 or Insulin-Positive Cells
Authors: Chase Lucas G. , Ulloa-Montoya Fernando , Kidder Benjamin L. , Verfaillie Catherine M.
Published: December 2006

As recent studies suggest that newly formed pancreatic β-cells are a result of self-duplication rather than stem cell differentiation, in vitro expansion of β-cells presents a potential mechanism by which to increase available donor tissue for cell-based diabetes therapies. Although most studies have found that β-cells are resilient to substantial in vitro expansion, recent studies have suggested that it is possible to expand these cells through a process referred to as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). To further substantiate such an expansion mechanism, we used recombination-based genetic lineage tracing to determine the origin of proliferating fibroblast-like cells from cultured pancreatic islets in vitro. We demonstrate, using two culture methods, that EMT does not underlie the appearance of fibroblast-like cells in mouse islet cultures but that fibroblast-like cells appear to represent mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-like cells akin to MSCs isolated from bone marrow.
Effect of Orlistat on Weight Regain and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Following a Very-Low-Energy Diet in Abdominally Obese Patients
Authors: Richelsen Bjørn , Tonstad Serena , Rössner Stephan , Toubro Søren , Niskanen Leo , Madsbad Steen , Mustajoki Pertti , Rissanen Aila
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—To investigate the efficacy of orlistat on the maintenance of weight loss over 3 years following a major weight loss induced by very-low-energy diet (VLED) in obese patients with metabolic risk factors such as dyslipidemia, impaired fasting glucose, and diet-treated type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Initially, weight loss was induced by an 8-week VLED (600–800 kcal/day) in 383 patients with a mean BMI of 37.5 kg/m2 (range 30.0–45.2). Those who lost ≥5% of their body weight (309 of 383 patients) were then randomized to receive lifestyle counseling for 3 years together with either orlistat 120 mg t.i.d. or matching placebo capsules. Primary end points were the maintenance of ≥5% weight loss after 3 years. Additionally, differences in the development of type 2 diabetes between orlistat and placebo were analyzed.

RESULTS—The VLED induced a mean weight loss of 14.4 ± 2..0 kg among the subsequently randomized patients. The mean weight gain after 3 years was lower with orlistat than with placebo (4.6 ± 8.6 vs. 7.0 ± 7.1 kg; P < 0.02). The number of participants who achieved ≥5% weight loss also favored orlistat (67 vs. 56%; P = 0.037). Waist circumference was significantly more reduced in the orlistat group (P < 0.05), but no other differences in the risk factors were observed between the two groups. The incidences of new cases of type 2 diabetes were significantly reduced in the orlistat group (8 cases out of 153 subjects) versus placebo (17 cases out of 156 subjects) (P = 0.041).

CONCLUSIONS—The addition of orlistat to lifestyle intervention was associated with maintenance of an extra 2.4 kg weight loss after VLED for up to 3 years in obese subjects. The combination of orlistat and lifestyle intervention was associated with a reduced occurrence of type 2 diabetes.
Minimum Waist and Visceral Fat Values for Identifying Japanese Americans at Risk for the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Hayashi Tomoshige , Boyko Edward J. , McNeely Marguerite J. , Leonetti Donna L. , Kahn Steven E. , Fujimoto Wilfred Y.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—Japanese American is an ethnic group with a high risk for type 2 diabetes, which is linked to the metabolic syndrome. Central adiposity is considered to play a key role in the metabolic syndrome. Not known are the optimal cut point values for central and visceral adiposity to identify Japanese Americans at risk for the metabolic syndrome.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Study subjects included 639 Japanese Americans. The nonadipose variables of the metabolic syndrome were defined using modified International Diabetes Federation criteria, and the accuracy of identifying at least two of these by intra-abdominal fat area (IAFA) as measured by computed tomography and waist circumference was cross-sectionally assessed using area under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The values for IAFA and waist circumference that resulted in maximizing the Youden index were defined as “optimal.”

RESULTS—The area under the ROC curve for IAFA exceeded that for waist circumference (men 0.787 vs. 0.686; women 0.792 vs. 0.721). For women, the optimal cut points for IAFA and waist circumference were 51.5 cm2 and 80.8 cm (age ≤56 years) and 86.3 cm2 and 89.0 cm (age >56 years). For men, the optimal cut points for IAFA and waist circumference were 88.6 cm2 and 90.0 cm (age ≤57 years) and 96.1 cm2 and 87.1 cm (age >57 years).

CONCLUSIONS—These results argue that current Japanese waist circumference cut points for the metabolic syndrome need to be revised. Moreover, the waist circumference and IAFA cut points should be age specific, especially in women. Appropriate waist circumference cut points are from 80 to 90 cm in women and from 87 to 90 cm in men.
Autonomic Nerve Testing Predicts the Development of Complications
Authors: Maguire Ann M. , Craig Maria E. , Craighead Anne , Chan Albert K.F. , Cusumano Janine M. , Hing Stephen J. , Silink Martin , Howard Neville J. , Donaghue Kim C.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—Cardiac autonomic nerve tests have predicted increased mortality in adults with diabetes, predominantly due to nephropathy, cardiac disease, and hypoglycemia. The significance of subclinical autonomic nerve test abnormalities has not been systematically studied in adolescents. We aimed to reassess an adolescent cohort, whose autonomic nervous system had been tested 12 years earlier by both pupillometry and cardiovascular tests.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—From 1990 to 1993, adolescents with type 1 diabetes (n = 335) were assessed for autonomic neuropathy (median age 14.7 years [interquartile range 13.0–16.8], duration of diabetes 6.3 years [4.0–9.6], and A1C 8.3% [7.5–9.4]). Between 2003 and 2005, contact was made with 59% of the original group. Individual assessment 12 years later included completion of a validated hypoglycemia unawareness questionnaire (n = 123) and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (n = 99) and retinal (n = 102) screening, as well as analysis of reports from external doctors (n = 35).

RESULTS—At baseline, there was no difference in age, duration of diabetes, or complications between those who participated in the follow-up phase (n = 137) and those who did not participate (n = 196). However, baseline A1C was lower in the follow-up participants (8.2 vs. 8.5% for participants vs. nonparticipants, respectively, P = 0.031). At 12 years of follow-up, 93% were aware and 7% were unaware that they had hypoglycemia; 32 (31%) had no retinopathy, but 10% required laser therapy, and 80 (81%) had no microalbuminuria. Small pupil size at baseline was independently associated with the development of microalbuminuria (odds ratio 4.36 [95% CI 1.32–14.42], P = 0.016) and retinopathy (4.83 [1.3–17.98], P = 0.019) but not with the development of hypoglycemia unawareness. There was no association with baseline cardiovascular tests and the development of complications 12 years later.

CONCLUSIONS—In this study, we found an association between baseline pupillometry tests and the presence of microalbuminuria and retinopathy at 12 years of follow-up. This suggests that pupillometry abnormalities may be early indicators of patients who are at high risk of future microvascular disease.
Rosiglitazone in Diabetes Control in Hemodialysis Patients With and Without Viral Hepatitis Infection
Authors: Chiang Chih-Kang , Ho Tai-I. , Peng Yu-Sen , Hsu Shih-Ping , Pai Mei-Fen , Yang Shao-Yu , Hung Kuan-Yu , Wu Kwan-Dun
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE— Thiazolidinedione (TZD) may provide an additional benefit of cardiovascular protection in diabetic patients through targeting of insulin resistance. However, use of a TZD is hampered by possible effects of fluid retention and hepatotoxicity. In this study we aimed to determine whether the risk of TZD-induced fluid retention or hepatic injury is higher in hemodialysis patients with persistent viral hepatitis infection.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—This was a prospective, cohort study on hemodialysis patients. Type 2 diabetic patients with A1C levels of >8% were followed for at least 12 months. Rosiglitazone was initiated at 2–4 mg/day. The primary outcome was the target A1C (<7%) achieved and dosages of rosiglitazone. Secondary outcomes included changes in lipid profile and inflammatory biomarkers. Safety evaluations were number of hypoglycemic episodes, changes in liver transaminase levels, cardiothoracic ratio (CTR), fluid status control during dialysis, and events of symptomatic heart failure.

RESULTS—A total of 78 patients, including 15.4% (n = 12) hepatitis B surface antigen–positive and 16.7% (n = 13) anti–hepatis C virus (HCV)-positive patients, were enrolled. The mean follow-up period was 15.4 ± 3.8 months. The diabetic response rate (A1C <7%) to rosiglitazone was 86.1%. The serum triglyceride level was reduced (194 ± 112.5 to 168 ± 88 mg/dl, P = 0.037) more significantly than the total cholesterol level (178 ± 42.1 to 174 ± 46.5 mg/dl, P = 0.13). High-dose rosiglitazone (8 mg/day) reduced the serum level of C-reactive protein and increased the serum adiponectin level significantly. After rosiglitazone, interdialysis weight gain (2.07 ± 1.6 to 3.2 ± 1.2 kg, P < 0.01) and mean CTR (48.2 ± 5.6 to 50.4 ± 6.2%, P = 0.0213) of individuals increased significantly. Nevertheless, liver aminotransferase (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase) levels did not show a tendency to increase in patients (n = 25) with viral hepatitis B or C infections.

CONCLUSIONS—Among regular hemodialysis patients with chronic viral hepatitis infections, rosiglitazone may be safely used for diabetes control. However, one must be aware that a possible effect of its use is a deterioration in cardiovascular reserve.
Cortisol Secretion in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Chiodini Iacopo , Adda Guido , Scillitani Alfredo , Coletti Francesca , Morelli Valentina , Di Lembo Sergio , Epaminonda Paolo , Masserini Benedetta , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Orsi Emanuela , Ambrosi Bruno , Arosio Maura
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—The presence of an enhanced cortisol secretion in patients with type 2 diabetes is debated. In type 2 diabetic subjects, cortisol secretion was found to be associated with the complications and metabolic control of diabetes. We evaluated cortisol secretion in 170 type 2 diabetic subjects and in 71 sex-, age-, and BMI-matched nondiabetic subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In all subjects, we evaluated ACTH at 8:00 a.m. in basal conditions and serum cortisol levels at 12:00 p.m. (F24) and at 9:00 a.m. after a 1-mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test and 24-h urinary free cortisol (UFC). In diabetic patients, we evaluated the presence of chronic complications (incipient nephropathy, asymptomatic neuropathy, background retinopathy, and silent macroangiopathy). Patients were subdivided according to the absence (group 1, n = 53) or presence (group 2, n = 117) of diabetes complications.

RESULTS—In group 2, UFC (125.2 ± 4.6 nmol/24 h) and F24 (120.6 ± 4.1 nmol/l) were higher than in group 1 (109.2 ± 6.8 nmol/24 h, P = 0.057, and 99.7 ± 6.1 nmol/l, P = 0.005, respectively) and in nondiabetic patients (101.7 ± 5.9 nmol/24 h, P = 0.002, and 100.3 ± 5.3 nmol/l, P = 0.003, respectively). In diabetic patients, the number of complications was associated with F24 (R = 0.345; P < 0.0001) and diabetes duration (R = 0.39; P < 0.0001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of diabetes complications was significantly associated with F24, sex, duration of diabetes, and glycated hemoglobin.

CONCLUSIONS—In type 2 diabetic subjects, hypothalmic-pituitary-adrenal activity is enhanced in patients with diabetes complications and the degree of cortisol secretion is related to the presence and number of diabetes complications.
Development and Validation of Stroke Risk Equation for Hong Kong Chinese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yang Xilin , So Wing-Yee , Kong Alice P.S. , Ho Chung-Shun , Lam Christopher W.K. , Stevens Richard J. , Lyu Ramon R. , Yin Donald D. , Cockram Clive S. , Tong Peter C.Y. , Wong Vivian , Chan Juliana C.N.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—We sought to develop stroke risk equations for Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes in Hong Kong.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A total of 7,209 Hong Kong Chinese type 2 diabetic patients without a history of stroke at baseline were analyzed. The data were randomly and evenly divided into the training subsample and the test subsample. In the training subsample, stepwise Cox models were used to develop the risk equation. Validation of the U.K. Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) stroke risk engine and the current stroke equation was performed in the test dataset. The life-table method was used to check calibration, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (aROC) was used to check discrimination.

RESULTS—A total of 372 patients developed incident stroke during a median of 5.37 years (interquartile range 2.88–7.78) of follow-up. Age, A1C, spot urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR), and history of coronary heart disease (CHD) were independent predictors. The performance of the UKPDS stroke engine was suboptimal in our cohort. The newly developed risk equation defined by these four predictors had adequate performance in the test subsample. The predicted stroke-free probability by the current equation was within the 95% CI of the observed probability. The aROC was 0.77 for predicting stroke within 5 years. The risk score was computed as follows: 0.0634 × age (years) + 0.0897 × A1C + 0.5314 × log10 (ACR) (mg/mmol) + 0.5636 × history of CHD (1 if yes). The 5-year stroke probability can be calculated by: 1 − 0.9707EXP (Risk Score − 4.5674).

CONCLUSIONS—Although the risk equation performed reasonably well in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients, external validation is required in other populations.
C-Peptide Replacement Therapy and Sensory Nerve Function in Type 1 Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Ekberg Karin , Brismar Tom , Johansson Bo-Lennart , Lindström Per , Juntti-Berggren Lisa , Norrby Anders , Berne Christian , Arnqvist Hans J. , Bolinder Jan , Wahren John
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—C-peptide replacement in animals results in amelioration of diabetes-induced functional and structural abnormalities in peripheral nerves. The present study was undertaken to examine whether C-peptide administration to patients with type 1 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy improves sensory nerve function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—This was an exploratory, double-blinded, randomized, and placebo-controlled study with three study groups that was carried out at five centers in Sweden. C-peptide was given as a replacement dose (1.5 mg/day, divided into four subcutaneous doses) or a dose three times higher (4.5 mg/day) during 6 months. Neurological examination and neurophysiological measurements were performed before and after 6 months of treatment with C-peptide or placebo.

RESULTS—The age of the 139 patients who completed the protocol was 44.2 ± 0.6 (mean ± SE) years and their duration of diabetes was 30.6 ± 0.8 years. Clinical neurological impairment (NIA) (score >7 points) of the lower extremities was present in 86% of the patients at baseline. Sensory nerve conduction velocity (SCV) was 2.6 ± 0.08 SD below body height–corrected normal values at baseline and improved similarly within the two C-peptide groups (P < 0.007). The number of patients responding with a SCV peak potential improvement >1.0 m/s was greater in C-peptide–treated patients than in those receiving placebo (P < 0.03). In the least severely affected patients (SCV < 2.5 SD below normal at baseline, n = 70) SCV improved by 1.0 m/s (P < 0.014 vs. placebo). NIA score and vibration perception both improved within the C-peptide–treated groups (P < 0.011 and P < 0.002). A1C levels (7.6 ± 0.1% at baseline) decreased slightly but similarly in C-peptide–and placebo-treated patients during the study.

CONCLUSIONS—C-peptide treatment for 6 months improves sensory nerve function in early-stage type 1 diabetic neuropathy.
Problem Solving and Diabetes Self-Management
Authors: Glasgow Russell E. , Fisher Lawrence , Skaff Marilyn , Mullan Joe , Toobert Deborah J.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—Problem solving is a core aspect of effective diabetes and chronic illness self-management, yet there are relatively few objective evaluations of problem-solving skills, especially in large, multiracial samples.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A multiracial sample of 506 adults who have type 2 diabetes were assessed on a variety of patient characteristics, self-management behaviors, and biological and psychosocial measures. They also completed the Diabetes Problem-Solving Interview (DPSI).

RESULTS—DPSI scores revealed significant variability across patients in problem-solving skill and were related to a number of comorbid conditions and complications but not to several other demographic factors, including race/ethnicity. Problem solving was also related to self-management behaviors (eating and exercise patterns), biological variables (A1C and lipids), and psychosocial measures (Diabetes Distress Scale) in multivariable analyses controlling for a variety of potential confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS—Diabetes problem solving, as measured by the DPSI, is an important patient skill related to several key diabetes management variables that appears applicable across racial and ethnic groups. Future research is needed to identify the generality versus specificity of diabetes problem solving and practical interventions to enhance problem-solving skills.
The Accuracy of the FreeStyle Navigator Continuous Glucose Monitoring System in Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Wilson Darrell M. , Beck Roy W. , Tamborlane William V. , Dontchev Mariya J. , Kollman Craig , Chase Peter , Fox Larry A. , Ruedy Katrina J. , Tsalikian Eva , Weinzimer Stuart A. ,   the DirecNet Study Group
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—To evaluate the accuracy and precision of the FreeStyle Navigator continuous glucose monitoring system in children with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In 30 children with type 1 diabetes (mean age 11.2 ± 4.1 years), the Navigator glucose values were compared with reference serum glucose values of blood samples obtained in an inpatient clinical research center and measured in a central laboratory using a hexokinase enzymatic method and in an outpatient setting with a FreeStyle meter. Median absolute difference (AD) and median relative absolute difference (RAD) were computed for sensor-reference and sensor-sensor pairs.

RESULTS—The median AD and RAD were 17 mg/dl and 12%, respectively, for 1,811 inpatient sensor-reference pairs and 20 mg/dl and 14%, respectively, for 8,639 outpatient pairs. The median RAD between two simultaneous Navigator measurements (n = 1,971) was 13%. Ninety-one percent of sensors in the inpatient setting and 81% of sensors in the outpatient setting had a median RAD ≤20%.

CONCLUSIONS—The Navigator’s accuracy does not yet approach the accuracy of current-generation home glucose meters, but it is sufficient to believe that the device has the potential to be an important adjunct to treatment of youth with type 1 diabetes.
The National Cholesterol Education Program–Adult Treatment Panel III, International Diabetes Federation, and World Health Organization Definitions of the Metabolic Syndrome as Predictors of Incident Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes
Authors: Lorenzo Carlos , Williams Ken , Hunt Kelly J. , Haffner Steven M.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—The clinical value of metabolic syndrome is uncertain. Thus, we examined cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes risk prediction by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP)-Adult Treatment Panel III (ATPIII), International Diabetes Federation, and World Health Organization definitions of the metabolic syndrome.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We analyzed the risks associated with metabolic syndrome, the NCEP multiple risk factor categories, and 2-h glucose values in the San Antonio Heart Study (n = 2,559; age range 25–64 years; 7.4 years of follow-up).

RESULTS—Both ATPIII metabolic syndrome plus age ≥45 years (odds ratio 9.25 [95% CI 4.85–17.7]) and multiple (two or more) risk factors plus a 10-year coronary heart disease (CHD) risk of 10–20% (11.9 [6.00–23.6]) had similar CVD risk in men without CHD, as well as CHD risk equivalents. In women counterparts, multiple (two or more) risk factors plus a 10-year CHD risk of 10–20% was infrequent (10 of 1,254). However, either a 10-year CHD risk of 5–20% (7.72 [3.42–17.4]) or ATPIII metabolic syndrome plus age ≥55 years (4.98 [2.08–12.0]) predicted CVD. ATPIII metabolic syndrome increased the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of a model containing age, sex, ethnic origin, family history of diabetes, and 2-h and fasting glucose values (0.857 vs. 0.842, P = 0.013). All three metabolic syndrome definitions imparted similar CVD and diabetes risks.

CONCLUSIONS—Metabolic syndrome is associated with a significant CVD risk, particularly in men aged ≥45 years and women aged ≥55 years. The metabolic syndrome predicts diabetes beyond glucose intolerance alone.
Muscle and Liver Insulin Resistance Indexes Derived From the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
Authors: Abdul-Ghani Muhammad A. , Matsuda Masafumi , Balas Bogdan , DeFronzo Ralph A.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—To derive indexes for muscle and hepatic insulin sensitivity from the measurement of plasma glucose and insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A total of 155 subjects of Mexican-American origin (58 male and 97 female, aged 18–70 years, BMI 20–65 kg/m2) with normal glucose tolerance (n = 100) or impaired glucose tolerance (n = 55) were studied. Each subject received a 75-g OGTT and a euglycemic insulin clamp in combination with tritiated glucose. The OGTT-derived indexes of muscle and hepatic insulin sensitivity were compared with hepatic and muscle insulin sensitivity, which was directly measured with the insulin clamp, by correlation analysis.

RESULTS—The product of total area under curve (AUC) for glucose and insulin during the first 30 min of the OGTT (glucose0–30[AUC] × insulin0–30[AUC]) strongly correlated with the hepatic insulin resistance index (fasting plasma insulin × basal endogenous glucose production) (r = 0.64, P < 0.0001). The rate of decay of plasma glucose concentration from its peak value to its nadir during the OGTT divided by the mean plasma insulin concentration (dG/dt ÷ I) strongly correlated with muscle insulin sensitivity measured with the insulin clamp (P = 0.78, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS—Novel estimates for hepatic and muscle insulin resistance from OGTT data are presented for quantitation of insulin sensitivity in nondiabetic subjects.
Lack of Effect of Guideline Changes on Hypertension Control for Patients With Diabetes in the U.S., 1995–2005
Authors: Wang Y. Richard
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—To study the effect of new Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC) guidelines on hypertension control for patients with diabetes in the U.S. using patients without diabetes as the control group for the time trend.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The JNC VI and VII guidelines, published in 1997 and 2003, set more aggressive goal blood pressure for patients with diabetes. Data from the National Disease and Therapeutic Index, a nationally representative survey of outpatient visits in the U.S., was used to compare the difference in hypertension control (blood pressure <140/90 mmHg) between diabetic and nondiabetic visits during 1995–2005.

RESULTS—Hypertension control improved for both diabetic and nondiabetic visits in the study period. Compared with nondiabetic visits, there was no change in hypertension control for diabetic visits before 2001 and an ∼4% increase afterward (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS—The publication of new JNC guidelines did not result in substantially better hypertension control for patients with diabetes in the U.S.
Preventing Diabetic Foot Ulcer Recurrence in High-Risk Patients
Authors: Lavery Lawrence A. , Higgins Kevin R. , Lanctot Dan R. , Constantinides George P. , Zamorano Ruben G. , Athanasiou Kyriacos A. , Armstrong David G. , Agrawal C. Mauli
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a temperature monitoring instrument to reduce the incidence of foot ulcers in individuals with diabetes who have a high risk for lower extremity complications.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In this physician-blinded, randomized, 15-month, multicenter trial, 173 subjects with a previous history of diabetic foot ulceration were assigned to standard therapy, structured foot examination, or enhanced therapy groups. Each group received therapeutic footwear, diabetic foot education, and regular foot care. Subjects in the structured foot examination group performed a structured foot inspection daily and recorded their findings in a logbook. If standard therapy or structured foot examinations identified any foot abnormalities, subjects were instructed to contact the study nurse immediately. Subjects in the enhanced therapy group used an infrared skin thermometer to measure temperatures on six foot sites each day. Temperature differences >4°F (>2.2°C) between left and right corresponding sites triggered patients to contact the study nurse and reduce activity until temperatures normalized.

RESULTS—The enhanced therapy group had fewer foot ulcers than the standard therapy and structured foot examination groups (enhanced therapy 8.5 vs. standard therapy 29.3%, P = 0.0046 and enhanced therapy vs. structured foot examination 30.4%, P = 0.0029). Patients in the standard therapy and structured foot examination groups were 4.37 and 4.71 times more likely to develop ulcers than patients in the enhanced therapy group.

CONCLUSIONS—Infrared temperature home monitoring, in serving as an “early warning sign,” appears to be a simple and useful adjunct in the prevention of diabetic foot ulcerations.
Increasing the Accuracy of Oral Glucose Tolerance Testing and Extending Its Application to Individuals With Normal Glucose Tolerance for the Prediction of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Sosenko Jay M. , Palmer Jerry P. , Greenbaum Carla J. , Mahon Jeffrey , Cowie Catherine , Krischer Jeffrey P. , Chase H. Peter , White Neil H. , Buckingham Bruce , Herold Kevan C. , Cuthbertson David , Skyler Jay S. ,   the Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 Study Group
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVE—We assessed the extent to which both standard and alternative indexes from 2-h oral glucose tolerance testing predict type 1 diabetes and whether oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) predict type 1 diabetes in individuals with normal glucose tolerance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The prediction of type 1 diabetes from baseline OGTTs was studied in 704 Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 participants (islet-cell autoantibody [ICA]-positive relatives of type 1 diabetic patients). The maximum follow-up was 7.4 years. Analyses utilized receiver-operator curves (ROCs), proportional hazards models, and survival curves.

RESULTS—ROC areas under the curve (ROCAUCs) for both the AUC glucose (0.73 ± 0.02) and an OGTT prediction index (0.78 ± 0.02) were higher (P < 0.001) than those for the fasting (0.53 ± 0.02) and 2-h glucose (0.66 ± 0.02). ROCAUCs for the 60- and 90-min glucose (0.71 ± 0.02 and 0.72 ± 0.02, respectively) were also higher (P < 0.01) than those for the fasting and 2-h glucose. Among individuals with normal glucose tolerance, OGTTs were highly predictive, with 4th versus 1st quartile hazard ratios for the 2-h glucose, AUC glucose, and OGTT prediction index ranging from 3.77 to 5.30 (P < 0.001 for all).

CONCLUSIONS—Certain alternative OGTT indexes appear to better predict type 1 diabetes than standard OGTT indexes in ICA-positive relatives of type 1 diabetic patients. Moreover, even among those with normal glucose tolerance, OGTTs are strongly predictive. This suggests that subtle metabolic abnormalities are present several years before the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
Truck Tire Thermal-Mechanical FEA and DMA with Application to Endurance Evaluation
Authors: Yin H. S. , Hu Y. S. , Zhang H. , Yang M. M. , Wei Y. T.
Published: December 2006

This work presents a thermal-mechanical finite element analysis (FEA) of a typical heavy-duty radial truck tire on both drum and roadway. The calculated footprint pressures, strain energy density, and steady-state temperature distribution are compared between two cases. In addition to structural and thermal simulation techniques for obtaining stress, strain, and temperature distributions in the tire key areas, several material analysis techniques are also used to characterize the tire rubber materials. Temperature, frequency, and strain scan tests are conducted to obtain the dynamic mechanical properties of the tire rubbers of interest. Furthermore, the changes of the materials’ dynamic mechanical properties with fatigue have been investigated by testing tire materials before and after drum endurance tests. It has been found that different parts show different changing trends in dynamical properties after endurance tests, which might indicate different failure mechanisms. Combining the materials’ characterization techniques and thermal-mechanical FEA, this paper attempts to evaluate the tire shoulder failure mechanism and predict the relative shoulder endurance of an 11.00R20 truck tire.
Contact Analysis of Tire Tread Rubber on Flat Surface with Microscopic Roughness
Authors: Kuwajima M. , Koishi M. , Sugimura J.
Published: December 2006

This paper describes experimental and analytical studies of the dependence of tire friction on the surface roughness of pavement. Abrasive papers were adopted as representative of the microscopic surface roughness of pavement surfaces. The rolling∕sliding friction of tire tread rubber against these abrasive papers were measured at low slip velocities. Experimental results indicated that rolling∕sliding frictional characteristics depended on the surface roughness. In order to examine the interfacial phenomena between rubber and the abrasive papers, real contact length, partial slip, and apparent friction coefficient under vertical load and tangential force were analyzed with two-dimensional explicit finite element analysis in which slip-velocity-dependent frictional coefficients were considered. Finite element method results indicated that the sum of real contact area and local partial slip were larger for finer surfaces under the same normal and tangential forces. In addition, the velocity-dependent friction enhanced local slip, where the dependence of local slip on surface roughness was pronounced. It proved that rolling∕sliding friction at low slip ratio was affected by local frictional behavior at microslip regions at asperity contacts.
Evaluation of Low Impact Military Tires
Authors: Ayers P. D. , Howard H. , Anderson A. , Li Q.
Published: December 2006

Laboratory and field tests were conducted on three low impact tires (Interco Trxus, Mickey Thompson BAHA Belted HP, Kevlar Dick Cepek F-C) and a standard, currently used military tire (Goodyear Wrangler MT). Laboratory tests include deflection, rutting, and plunger tests at pressures ranging from 10 to 30 psi and loads ranging from 600 to 2000 lbs. Footprint area was also measured. Field tests consisted of: (1) driving single tires over a plunger at slow speeds and measuring plunger depth, (2) driving the vehicle (modified M1008) in a straight line at various tire pressures and measuring rut depth and disturbed width, (3) driving vehicle (M1097A1) spirals in sand and measuring rut depth and disturbed width, and (4) driving vehicle (modified M1008) spirals over vegetation and measuring disturbed width and vegetative impacts. Although differences between the tire performances exist, this study did not reveal any tires exhibiting consistently lower impact potential than the Goodyear Wrangler MT tire.
Coupling in Fe(2 ML)/V(y ML) and Fe(2 ML)/V(y ML)/Fe(3 ML)/V(y ML) (y ≥ 4) superlattices
Authors: Paul Karen
Published: December 2006

Fe(2 ML)/V(y ML) and interleaved Fe(2 ML)/V(y ML)/Fe(3 ML)/V(y ML) superlattice systems with spacer thicknesses, y, (4 ≤ y ≤ 17) were investigated macro-magnetically to estimate the coupling strength and the magnetoresistance in these materials, and particularly in the antiferromagnetically coupled monolayers. The results from the magnetic and magnetoresistive measurements indicate that adding one monolayer of Fe increases the antiferromagnetic coupling and the magnetoresistivity ratio from 0.0075 mJ/m2 at 20 K and 2 % at 10 K for Fe(2 ML)/V(y ML), to 0.05 mJ/m2 and 2.5 % for Fe(2 ML)/V(y ML)/Fe(3 ML)/V(y ML) at the same temperatures. Both systems exhibit in-plane magnetic and magnetoresistive isotropy, therefore the increase of the conferred physical parameters is attributed mainly to the stresses at the interface as governing mechanisms over the magnetoelastic forces.
NIR photoresponse in the mixed phthalocyanine films
Authors: Pakhomov Geogrij , Kuzin Evgenij , Murel Arkadij
Published: December 2006

The original version of the article was published in Cent. Eur. J. Phys., Vol. 4(4), (2006), pp. 494-502. It can be also found online at: http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/s11534-006-0027-9. Unfortunately, the original version of this article contains mistakes in the numbering of its references. The reference numbers should be changed according to the following table: PageLineThere isThere should be19[2, 5, 7, 13-15][2, 5, 7, 13-16]25[2, 3, 7-10, 12, 17][2, 3, 7-10, 12, 18]27[2, 4, 5, 7, 14, 17][2, 4, 5, 7, 14, 18]29[11, 17][11, 18]213[18][19]2Footnote[16][17]321[4, 5, 7, 14, 19][4, 5, 7, 14, 20]510[20][21]717[21][22]723[14, 15][15, 16]
The binding of fork head proteins to DNA is partly determined by cooperation of bases
Authors: Mach Václav
Published: December 2006

Our previous study revealed that DNA recognition by the insect Fork head transcription factors depends on specific combinations of neighboring bases, a phenomenon called the base cooperation effect. This study presents a simple algorithm designed for in silico investigation of the base cooperation effect. The algorithm measures and evaluates observed and expected frequencies of various base combinations within a set of aligned binding sites. Consequently, statistically significant differences between the observed and expected frequencies are interpreted as evidence of either positive or negative base cooperation effect. Our current results suggest that the base cooperation affects DNA binding of the vertebrate members of the Fork head family, similarly to their insect homologies.

The statistical algorithm used in this study is available on line (http://blast.entu.cas.cz/bias/index.htm).
Mesophilic and psychrotrophic aerobe sporulating microorganisms in raw cow’s milk
Authors: Foltys Vladimír , Kirchnerová Katarína
Published: December 2006

We studied the occurrence of mesophilic and psychrotrophic aerobic sporulating microorganisms (MPAS) in raw cow’s milk and their relations to microflora in milk. We took 294 samples of raw cow’s milk from 14 farms during one year. Briefly the method for MPAS assessment is to inactivate the milk sample by heating it to 80-82°C for 30 minutes. Mesophilic aerobic sporulates are incubated at 30°C for 3 days-, and psychrotrophic aerobic sporulates at 7°C for 10 days. Results of studied microbiological parameters characterize the sampled milk as complying with requirements of the EU regulation 92/46 and standard STN 57 0529. MPAS count was within the span 2.5–340 CFU/ml. The average value ofMPAS was 59.4 CFU/ml, with variation coefficient 93.1%. Counts up to 50 CFU/ml were in 55.4% samples, the value was not higher than 100 in 85%, and in 3.1% of the samples the MPAS count was higher than 200. MPAS do not show correlation with any of the studied microbiological parameters; marked influences of season were not observed either. On the basis of obtained results, it is possible to support the proposal of an initial limit of maximum 200 CFU/ml for the introduction of a MPAS parameter. MPAS count found in the same dishes at incubation for mesophilic and subsequently strictly psychrophilic microorganisms was 56.9 CFU/ml on average. This represents 95.8% of total CFU sums of individual dishes at two temperatures. The correlation coefficient of these two types of results, r = 0.99,gives evidence of close dependence expressed by the linear regression equation. Use of two incubation temperatures, one after another with an identical set of dishes, enables us to exclude overestimation of results due to sporulates able to grow at both incubation temperatures.
Genetic structure of gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata, in the Central Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Rossi Anna , Perrone Eleonora , Sola Luciana
Published: December 2006

The gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata, represents an important economic resource for Mediterranean aquaculture. In spite of its wide geographic distribution and economic importance, only recently studies have been carried out on the genetic composition of natural populations, which have revealed a picture of a heterogeneous degree of genetic differentiation among S. aurata populations. In this study an allozyme analysis of samples from six different collecting sites along the Italian and Croatian coasts was carried out, covering an area in the Central Mediterranean sea that has yet to be investigated through gene-enzyme systems. Data on 26 gene loci, 10 of which are polymorphic, indicate a slight but significant genetic structure (FST = 0.0167) of the species. A hierarchical analysis of population subdivision made it possible to identify three different assemblages found in the Adriatic Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinian Channel, though an isolation by distance model can be rejected. The results are discussed in the light of previous literature and taking conservation into consideration.
Visceral regeneration in the crinoid Antedon mediterranea: basic mechanisms, tissues and cells involved in gut regrowth
Authors: Mozzi Daniela , Dolmatov Igor , Bonasoro Francesco , Carnevali Maria
Published: December 2006

Crinoids are able to regenerate completely many body parts, namely arms, pinnules, cirri, and also viscera, including the whole gut, lost after self-induced or traumatic mutilations. In contrast to the regenerative processes related to external appendages, those related to internal organs have been poorly investigated. In order to provide a comprehensive view of these processes, and of their main events, timing and mechanisms, the present work is exploring visceral regeneration in the feather star Antedon meditteranea. The histological and cellular aspects of visceral regeneration were monitored at predetermined times (from 24 hours to 3 weeks post evisceration) using microscopy and immunocytochemistry. The overall regeneration process can be divided into three main phases, leading in 3 weeks to the reconstruction of a complete functional gut. After a brief wound healing phase, new tissues and organs develop as a result of extensive cell migration and transdifferentiation. The cells involved in these processes are mainly coelothelial cells, which after trans-differentiating into progenitor cells form clusters of enterocytic precursors. The advanced phase is then characterized by the growth and differentiation of the gut rudiment. In general, our results confirm the striking potential for repair (wound healing) and regeneration displayed by crinoids at the organ, tissue and cellular levels.
The molecular diversity of different isolates of Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. as assessed using intermicrosatellites (ISSRs)
Authors: Estrada M. , Camacho Manuel , Benito César
Published: December 2006

Inter-microsatellite PCR (ISSR-PCR) markers were used to identify and to examine the genetic diversity of eleven Beauveria bassiana isolates with different geographic origins. The variability and the phylogenetic relationships between the eleven strains were analyzed using 172 ISSR-PCR markers. A high level of polymorphism (near 80%) was found using these molecular markers. Seven different isolates showed exclusive bands, and ISSR primer 873 was able to distinguish between all the strains. The dendrogram obtained with these markers is robust and in agreement with the geographical origins of the strains. All the isolates from the Caribbean region were grouped together in a cluster, while the other isolates grouped in the other cluster. The similarity exhibited between the two clusters was less than 50%. This value of homology shows the high genetic variability detected between the isolates from the Caribbean region and the other isolates. ISSR-PCR markers provide a quick, reliable and highly informative system for DNA fingerprinting, and allowed the identification of the different B. bassiana isolates studied.
Pseudopycnadena tendu sp. nov. (Digenea, Opecoelidae) in the yellow-spotted triggerfish Pseudobalistes fuscus (Perciformes, Balistidae) and additional opecoelids parasitizing fishes from the waters off New Caledonia
Authors: Bray Rodney , Justine Jean-Lou
Published: December 2006

Pseudopycnadena tendu sp. nov. is described from the balistid Pseudobalistes fuscus from the waters off New Caledonia. It differs from the only other member of the genus P. fischthali Saad-Fares et Maillard, 1986, in its broad cirrus-sac, with the wide field of large gland-cells, its less nearly circular body shape, its dorsal excretory pore, its shorter post-testicular region, its relatively larger ventral sucker and its smaller eggs. The genus is re-defined to take these distinctions into account. Other opecoelid species reported from New Caledonia are Allopodocotyle epinepheli (Yamaguti, 1942) from Epinephelus cyanopodus, E. fasciatus and E. merra, Cainocreadium epinepheli (Yamaguti, 1934) from E. coeruleopunctatus, E. fasciatus and Variola louti, Hamacreadium mutabile (Linton, 1910) from Lutjanus fulviflamma and L. kasmira, Helicometra epinepheli Yamaguti, 1934 from E. fasciatus and E. merra, Orthodena tropica Durio et Manter, 1968 from Lethrinus lentjan, Pacificreadium serrani (Nagaty et Abdel-Aal, 1962) from Plectropomus leopardus and Pseudoplagioporus interruptus Durio et Manter, 1968 from Lethrinus rubrioperculatus.