bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of cardiac angiotensin‐converting enzyme and angiotensin AT1receptor gene expression inNpr1gene‐disrupted mice
Authors: Pandey Kailash N , Vellaichamy Elangovan
Published: October 2009

1. Understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of gene expression in the control of blood pressure and fluid volume is a key issue in cardiovascular medicine. Guanylyl cyclase/natriuretic peptide receptor‐A (GC‐A/NPRA) signalling antagonizes the physiological and pathophysiological effects mediated by the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) in the regulation of cardiovascular homeostasis.

2. The targeted‐disruption of theNpr1gene (coding for GC‐A/PRA) leads to activation of the cardiac RAAS involved in the hypertrophic remodelling process, which influences cardiac size, expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokine genes and the behaviour of various hypertrophy marker genes. TheNpr1gene‐knockout (Npr1−/−) mice exhibit 35–40 mmHg higher systolic blood pressure and a significantly greater heart weight to bodyweight ratio than wild‐type (Npr1+/+) mice.

3. The expression of both angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) and angiotensin II AT1areceptors are significantly increased in hearts fromNpr1−/−mice compared with hearts fromNpr1+/+mice. In parallel, the expression of interleukin‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α is also markedly increased in hearts fromNpr1−/−mice.

4. These findings indicate that disruption of NPRA/cGMP signalling leads to augmented expression of the cardiac RAAS in conjunction with pro‐inflammatory cytokines inNpr1‐null mutant mice, which promotes the development of cardiac hypertrophy and remodelling.
Renin secretion and total body sodium: Pathways of integrative control
Authors: Bie Peter , Damkjaer Mads
Published: October 2009

1. Herein, we review mechanisms of sodium balance operating at constant mean arterial blood pressure (MABP); that is, under conditions where MABP does not provide the primary signal to the kidney.

2. Relative constancy of body fluids requires accurate regulation of total body sodium (TBS). Normally, plenty of sodium is ingested and balance is achieved by control of renal excretion driven by multiple central nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine and renal tubular mechanisms. Subtle changes in sodium balance are associated with parallel changes in extracellular volume (due to fast and precise osmoregulation), but not necessarily in MABP. Therefore, signals other than MABP seem to be the primary link between TBS and kidney function.

3. Renal functions involved in sodium homeostasis include: (i) the rate of glomerular filtration (GFR) determined by renal haemodynamics, including tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF); (ii) proximal tubular reabsorption involving glomerulotubular balance (GTB) and neurohumoral control; (iii) macula densa mechanisms influencing TGF and renin secretion; and (iv) distal tubular reabsorption dominated by the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS).

4. The present review focuses on the interactive, homeostatic operation of TBS, MABP, GTB, TGF and the RAAS. Regulation of sodium balance involves neurohumoral control of tubular sodium reabsorption, including proximal reabsorption. Central nervous system‐mediated regulation of the latter modulates renin secretion. Homeostatically, the RAAS–TGF interaction seems analogous to a spring–shock absorber set‐up: non‐adaptive RAAS functions determine the new steady state position, whereas TGF controls the rate of change. Recruitment of renin‐secreting cells during sustained stimulation may be essential for chronic adaptation, although details of this afferent arteriolar cell plasticity are unclear at present.
Functional expression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator in mouse chondrocytes
Authors: Liang Haitao , Yang Lin , Ma Tonghui , Zhao Yong
Published: October 2009

1. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is well known for its role in the cystic fibrosis (CF). Recent studies have shown that CF patients and CFTR‐deficient mice exhibit a severe abnormal skeletal phenotype, indicating that CFTR may play a role in bone development and pathophysiological processes. However, it is not known whether CFTR has a direct or indirect effect on bone formation. The aim of the present study was to detect the expression and function of CFTR in mouse chondrocytes.

2. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to characterize the expression of CFTR in primary isolated mouse chondrocytes. Expression of CFTR mRNA and protein was detectable in mouse chondrocytes. Importantly, whole‐cell patch‐clamp analysis demonstrated that CFTR in mouse chondrocytes is functional as a cAMP‐dependent Cl− channel that is inhibited by CFTRinh‐172.

3. Thus, the results of the present study demonstrate that functional CFTR is expressed in mouse chondrocytes, which offers essential evidence for the potential direct role of CFTR in physiological and pathological processes of bone.
Utilization of 111In‐Capromab pendetide SPECT‐CT for detecting seminal vesicle invasion with recurrent prostate cancer after primary in situ therapy
Authors: Kimura Masaki , Tsivian Matvey , Mouraviev Vladimir , Mayes Janice M , Price Marva M , Bannister Michael C , Madden John F , Wong Terence Z , Polascik Thomas J
Published: October 2009

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of a hybrid 111In‐capromab pendetide fused computed tomography (CT) scan in detecting seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) in the setting of recurrent prostate cancer following primary in situ therapy. The study population comprised 59 patients, who biochemically failed primary in situ treatment based on American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology criteria. The patients underwent an 111In‐capromab pendetide/CT scan at the time of biochemical failure with a prostate (12‐core) and seminal vesicle (SV) (8‐core) biopsy. The diagnostic properties of the scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting SVI compared to an SV biopsy were calculated. In total, eight (14%) patients had a positive SV biopsy after primary in situ prostate cancer treatment. Nine (15%) patients had positive uptake of the scan in the SV. When comparing the SV scan results to the SV biopsy, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 37.5%, 88.2%, 33.3%, and 90.0% (95% confidence interval: 0.44–0.81), respectively. In contrast, the ability of MRI to detect SVI was 50.0%, 81.3%, 40.0%, and 86.7% (95% confidence interval: 0.46–0.85), respectively. Although the sensitivity and positive predictive value of the 111In‐capromab pendetide/CT scan are low, its specificity and negative predictive value are high. Based on these findings, the ability of the 111In‐capromab pendetide/CT scan to detect SVI seems to be comparable with MRI.
Preference–performance relationship and influence of plant relatedness on host use by Pityogenes chalcographus L.
Authors: Bertheau Coralie , Salle Aurélien , Roux‐Morabito Géraldine , Garcia Jacques , Certain Grégoire , Lieutier François
Published: October 2009

Pityogenes chalcographus L. (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) causes damage in European coniferous forests, primarily on Picea abies L. Karst., but is also recorded on other native and exotic Pinaceae species. Estimating the adequacy between adult preference and larval performance of this beetle among its host‐range, as well as the influence of plant taxonomic relatedness on these parameters, would provide useful information on the beetle's ability to shift onto novel hosts.

Choice and no‐choice assays were conducted under laboratory conditions. Adult preference and larval performance parameters among two native (Pinus sylvestris L. and Picea abies) and three exotic north American [Pinus contorta Dougl., Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr. and Pseudotsuga menziesii Mirbel (Franco)] conifer species were measured.

Pityogenes chalcographus exhibited a significant positive relationship between preference and performance. Picea abies was both the preferred and the most suitable host species for larval development. The closest relative, P. sitchensis, was the second best choice in terms of preference and performance. Pseudotsuga menziesii occupied an intermediate position for both beetle preference and performance, and Pinus spp. were the least suitable hosts for beetle development.

Adult preference and larval performance ranking among hosts provides little support to the plant taxonomic relatedness hypothesis. Taxonomic relatedness could play a role on the diet breadth, although only at a limited scale, within the genus Picea. At higher taxonomic levels, other factors such as bark thickness might be decisive.
Ecology and management of exotic and endemic Asian longhorned beetleAnoplophora glabripennis
Authors: Hu Jiafu , Angeli Sergio , Schuetz Stefan , Luo Youqing , Hajek Ann E.
Published: October 2009

The Asian longhorned beetle is native to China and Korea, and was found for the first time outside its native habitat in the U.S.A. in 1996, with subsequent detections being made in Canada and several European countries.

We review the taxonomy, distribution, basic biology, behaviour, ecology and management of endemic and exoticAnoplophora glabripennis, including information that is available in the extensive Chinese literature.

This species has caused massive mortality ofPopulusspecies in China and models have demonstrated that it could become established in many locations worldwide.

Anoplophora glabripennisis polyphagous but prefersAcer,SalixandPopulus, sectionAigeiros.

AlthoughA. glabripennisadults do not disperse far when surrounded by host trees, they have the potential to fly more than 2000 m in a season.

Volatile organic compounds from preferred host trees are attractive toA. glabripennisand this attraction is heightened by drought stress. Males and females orientate to a volatile released by femaleA. glabripennisand males attempt to copulate after contacting a sex pheromone on the female cuticle.

At present,A. glabripennisis being (or has been) eradicated from areas where it has been introduced. After detection, extensive surveys are conducted and, if breeding populations are detected, at the very least, infested trees are removed and destroyed. Close attention is paid to imported solid wood packaging material to prevent new introductions.

Standard practice to controlA. glabripennisin China is to spray insecticides in tree canopies. In North America, largely as a preventative measure, systemic insecticides are injected into trees. Entomopathogenic fungi have been developed for the control ofA. glabripennis, and entomopathogenic nematodes, coleopteran and hymenopteran parasitoids and predatory woodpeckers have been investigated as biocontrol agents.

Ecological control ofA. glabripennisin China involves planting mixtures of preferred and nonpreferred tree species, and this practice can successfully prevent outbreaks.
Temptations of weevil: feeding and ovipositional behaviour of Hylobius warreni Wood on host and nonhost bark in laboratory bioassays
Authors: Hopkins Gareth R. , Klingenberg Matthew D. , Aukema Brian H.
Published: October 2009

Warren root collar weevil Hylobius warreni Wood (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a long‐lived, flightless insect native to coniferous forests across northern North America. Girdling by larval feeding causes significant mortality on young trees. The insect poses considerable challenges to reforestation.

Adult weevils feed on all life stages of a variety of coniferous hosts prior to oviposition. Their relative feeding preferences, however, have not been quantified. Moreover, it is not known whether host bark influences oviposition behaviour.

Feeding preferences of adult weevils were tested in both choice and no‐choice laboratory bioassays using small branches from three conifers (lodgepole pine Pinus contorta var. latifolia, interior hybrid spruce Picea glauca×engelmannii, and Douglas‐fir Pseudotsuga menziesii) and one deciduous tree (trembling aspen Populus tremuloides). Measurements included the surface area of bark consumed, rate of consumption, the number of days of feeding, and, in the no‐choice assay, the number of eggs oviposited.

Bark consumption was greatest on pine and Douglas‐fir, followed by spruce. Little to no feeding occurred on aspen. Consumption did not vary between male versus female insects for any of the feeding metrics quantified.

The presence of aspen branches did not inhibit feeding on any of the other species in the choice bioassays.

The number of eggs laid by female insects did not differ significantly among tree species in the no‐choice assay. Eggs were laid indiscriminately in the presence of all four host types.

Results and opportunities for future research are discussed in the context of formulating new integrated pest management strategies for this insect, which is increasingly important in the period of reforestation subsequent to the mountain pine beetle epidemic in western Canada.
Mycorrhizal fungi as mediators of defence against insect pests in agricultural systems
Authors: Vannette Rachel L. , Hunter Mark D.
Published: October 2009

Below‐ground organisms influence above‐ground interactions in both natural and agricultural ecosystems. Among the most important below‐ground organisms are mycorrhizal fungi, comprising ubiquitous and ancient plant mutualists that have significant effects on plant growth and fitness mediated by resource exchange with plants. In the present study, we focus on the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on crop defence against insect pests.

AMF alter the availability of resources used by crop plants to manufacture defences against pests and to compensate for pest damage. However, AMF also provide plants with nutrients that are known to increase insect performance. Through potentially opposing effects on plant nutritional quality and defence, mycorrhizal fungi can positively or negatively affect pest performance.

Additionally, AMF may directly affect gene expression and plant defence signalling pathways involved in the construction and induction of plant defences, and these effects are apparently independent of those caused by nutrient availability. In this way, AMF may still influence plant defences in the fertilized and highly managed systems typical of agribusiness.

Because AMF can affect plant tolerance to pest damage, they may have a significant impact on the shape of damage–yield relationships in crops. Potential mechanisms for this effect are suggested.

We highlight the need for continuing research on the effects of AMF identity and the abundance on crop defences and tolerance to pest attack. Much work is needed on the potential effects of mycorrhizal colonization on plant signalling and the induction of direct and indirect defences that may protect against pest damage.
Dispersal of the emerald ash borer,Agrilus planipennis, in newly‐colonized sites
Authors: Mercader Rodrigo J. , Siegert Nathan W. , Liebhold Andrew M. , McCullough Deborah G.
Published: October 2009

Emerald ash borerAgrilus planipennisFairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) is an invasive forest insect pest threatening more than 8 billion ash (Fraxinusspp.) trees in North America. Development of effective survey methods and strategies to slow the spread ofA. planipennisrequires an understanding of dispersal, particularly in recently established satellite populations.

We assessed the dispersal ofA. planipennisbeetles over a single generation at two sites by intensively sampling ash trees at known distances from infested ash logs, the point source of the infestations. Larval density was recorded from more than 100 trees at each site.

Density ofA. planipennislarvae by distance for one site was fit to the Ricker function, inverse power function, and the negative exponential function using a maximum likelihood approach. The prediction of the best model, a negative exponential function, was compared with the results from both sites.

The present study demonstrates that larval densities rapidly declined with distance, and that most larvae (88.9 and 90.3%) were on trees within 100 m of the emergence point of the adults at each site. The larval distribution pattern observed at both sites was adequately described by the negative exponential function.
Long‐term effects of imidacloprid on the abundance of surface‐ and soil‐active nontarget fauna in turf
Authors: Peck Daniel C.
Published: October 2009

Outbreaks of root‐feeding scarab larvae in turfgrass are widely managed through preventive applications of imidacloprid. Long‐residual activity and application before feasible scouting probably lead to its overuse and overexposure.

Recent investigations revealed a selective impact of imidacloprid (not trichlorfon or halofenozide) on certain nontarget turf arthropods, motivating the present study on the persistence of abundance effects over 6 years of annual applications.

Arthropods were sampled monthly (July to October) in replicated plots using soil core heat extraction and pitfall traps to quantify soil‐ and surface‐active arthropods. Captures were identified to class, order or family. The most represented taxa were analysed to test for cumulative effects and their change over season and year.

Imidacloprid had no impact on pitfall captures, although the abundance of Hemiptera, Thysanoptera, Coleoptera and Collembola was suppressed in soil core captures. Among beetles, impact was expressed in adults (not larvae), and in Carabidae and Staphylinidae (not Chrysomelidae or Curculionidae). Among springtails, impact was expressed in Entomobryomorpha (not Poduromorpha or Symphypleona). Impact did not diminish with year but there was variable recovery between applications.

There may therefore be a diverging response of soil‐ and surface‐active fauna to the nontarget impacts of imidacloprid. The suppression of predaceous (not phytophagous) beetles indicates an indirect effect mediated through declines in prey populations.

The magnitude of abundance effects confirms that the balance between target and nontarget impact should be explicitly examined. Implications are discussed with respect to functional relevance for nutrient cycling and the natural regulation of pests.
Diversity and population structure of sewage‐derived microorganisms in wastewater treatment plant influent
Authors: McLellan S. L. , Huse S. M. , Mueller‐Spitz S. R. , Andreishcheva E. N. , Sogin M. L.
Published: October 2009

The release of untreated sewage introduces non‐indigenous microbial populations of uncertain composition into surface waters. We used massively parallel 454 pyrosequencing of hypervariable regions in rRNA genes to profile microbial communities from eight untreated sewage influent samples of two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in metropolitan Milwaukee. The sewage profiles included a discernible human faecal signature made up of several taxonomic groups including multiple Bifidobacteriaceae, Coriobacteriaceae, Bacteroidaceae, Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae genera. The faecal signature made up a small fraction of the taxa present in sewage but the relative abundance of these sequence tags mirrored the population structures of human faecal samples. These genera were much more prevalent in the sewage influent than standard indicators species. High‐abundance sequences from taxonomic groups within the Beta‐ and Gammaproteobacteria dominated the sewage samples but occurred at very low levels in faecal and surface water samples, suggesting that these organisms proliferate within the sewer system. Samples from Jones Island (JI – servicing residential plus a combined sewer system) and South Shore (SS – servicing a residential area) WWTPs had very consistent community profiles, with greater similarity between WWTPs on a given collection day than the same plant collected on different days. Rainfall increased influent flows at SS and JI WWTPs, and this corresponded to greater diversity in the community at both plants. Overall, the sewer system appears to be a defined environment with both infiltration of rainwater and stormwater inputs modulating community composition. Microbial sewage communities represent a combination of inputs from human faecal microbes and enrichment of specific microbes from the environment to form a unique population structure.
NifA is required for maximal expression of denitrification genes in Bradyrhizobium japonicum
Authors: Bueno Emilio , Mesa Socorro , Sanchez Cristina , Bedmar Eulogio J. , Delgado María J.
Published: October 2009

In Bradyrhizobium japonicum the napEDABC, nirK, norCBQD and nosRZDYFLX genes, which encode reductases for nitrate, nitrite, nitric oxide and nitrous oxide, respectively, are required for denitrification. Microaerobic induction of these genes depends on fixLJ and fixK2, whose products form the FixLJ‐FixK2 regulatory cascade. In B. japonicum, a second oxygen‐responsive regulatory cascade mediated by the nitrogen fixation regulatory protein, NifA, has been described. In this study, we show that disruption of nifA caused a growth defect in B. japonicum cells, when grown under denitrifying conditions, and decreased activity of periplasmic nitrate and nitrite reductase enzymes was also observed. Furthermore, expression of napE–lacZ, nirK–lacZ or norC–lacZ transcriptional fusions, as well as levels of nirK transcripts were significantly reduced in the nifA mutant after incubation under nitrate‐respiring conditions. Haem c staining analyses revealed that NifA is required for full synthesis of the NapC and NorC proteins, which are required for denitrification. A B. japonicum rpoN1/2 mutant, lacking both copies of the gene encoding the alternative sigma factor σ54, was able to grow anaerobically with nitrate as terminal electron acceptor and showed wild‐type levels of nitrate and nitrite reductase activities. We propose that the nitrogen fixation regulatory protein, NifA, is involved in the maximal expression of the denitrification genes in B. japonicum. This influence is independent of σ54.
Functional characterization of an anaerobic benzene‐degrading enrichment culture by DNA stable isotope probing
Authors: Herrmann Steffi , Kleinsteuber Sabine , Chatzinotas Antonis , Kuppardt Steffen , Lueders Tillmann , Richnow Hans‐Hermann , Vogt Carsten
Published: October 2009

The flow of carbon under sulfate‐reducing conditions within a benzene‐mineralizing enrichment culture was analysed using fully labelled [13C6]‐benzene. Over 180 days of incubation, 95% of added 13C‐benzene was released as 13C‐carbon dioxide. DNA extracted from cultures that had degraded different amounts of unlabelled or 13C‐labelled benzene was centrifuged in CsCl density gradients to identify 13C‐benzene‐assimilating organisms by density‐resolved terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis and cloning of 16S rRNA gene fragments. Two phylotypes showed significantly increased relative abundance of their terminal restriction fragments in ‘heavy’ fractions of 13C‐benzene‐incubated microcosms compared with a 12C‐benzene‐incubated control: a member of the Cryptanaerobacter/Pelotomaculum group within the Peptococcaceae, and a phylotype belonging to the Epsilonproteobacteria. The Cryptanaerobacter/Pelotomaculum phylotype was the most frequent sequence type. A small amount of 13C‐methane was aceticlastically produced, as concluded from the linear relationship between methane production and benzene degradation and the detection of Methanosaetaceae as the only methanogens present. Other phylotypes detected but not 13C‐labelled belong to several genera of sulfate‐reducing bacteria, that may act as hydrogen scavengers for benzene oxidation. Our results strongly support the hypothesis that benzene is mineralized by a consortium consisting of syntrophs, hydrogenotrophic sulfate reducers and to a minor extent of aceticlastic methanogens.
Limits of life in hostile environments: no barriers to biosphere function?
Authors: Williams Jim P. , Hallsworth John E.
Published: October 2009

Environments that are hostile to life are characterized by reduced microbial activity which results in poor soil‐ and plant‐health, low biomass and biodiversity, and feeble ecosystem development. Whereas the functional biosphere may primarily be constrained by water activity (aw) the mechanism(s) by which this occurs have not been fully elucidated. Remarkably we found that, for diverse species of xerophilic fungi at aw values of ≤ 0.72, water activity per se did not limit cellular function. We provide evidence that chaotropic activity determined their biotic window, and obtained mycelial growth at water activities as low as 0.647 (below that recorded for any microbial species) by addition of compounds that reduced the net chaotropicity. Unexpectedly we found that some fungi grew optimally under chaotropic conditions, providing evidence for a previously uncharacterized class of extremophilic microbes. Further studies to elucidate the way in which solute activities interact to determine the limits of life may lead to enhanced biotechnological processes, and increased productivity of agricultural and natural ecosystems in arid and semiarid regions.
Predicted annual costs for inpatients with diabetes and foot ulcers in a developing country—a simulation of the current situation in Brazil
Authors: Rezende K. F. , Ferraz M. B. , Malerbi D. A. , Melo N. H. , Nunes M. P. , Pedrosa H. C. , Chacra A. R.
Published: October 2009

Diabet. Med.

Aims  The objective of this cost‐of‐illness analysis was to quantify the annual costs associated with hospital admission for people with diabetes and foot ulcers in Brazil.

Methods  A hypothetical cohort was simulated using a decision tree model. Prevalence and incidence rates and clinical outcomes were estimated from published studies and applied to the general Brazilian population over 30 years. Costs were quoted in Brazilian real (BRL) and converted to US dollars ($US) at the 2008 currency exchange rate ($US1 = BRL 1.64). In the sensitivity analysis, we reduced and increased rates to assess the robustness of the cost estimates.

Results  In this hypothetical cohort there are 6.48 million (95% confidence interval 4.47–7.12) Brazilians citizens with Type 2 diabetes. Each year, approximately 323 000 (89 500–484 500) of these people develop foot ulcers and almost 97 200 (17 900–169 600) require hospital admission as a result. Each year, almost 46 300 (8500–80 900) limb amputations and 12 400 (2300–21 700) deaths occur as a result of diabetic foot disease in Brazil. The annual cost associated with these hospital admissions is estimated to be almost $US264m ($US51m–461m). The estimated cost for patients with amputation is nearly $US128m ($US24.5m–222.3m).

Conclusions  Our model shows that the social and economic impact of diabetic foot disease in Brazil is high. Government decision makers should reflect on the current situation and provide organized foot care throughout the whole country.
Co‐morbidity and the utilization of health care for Australian veterans with diabetes
Authors: Zhang Y. , Vitry A. , Roughead E. , Ryan P. , Gilbert A.
Published: October 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 65–71 (2010)

Objective  To examine the impact of co‐morbidity on health service utilization by Australian veterans with diabetes.

Methods  A retrospective cohort study was undertaken including veterans aged ≥ 65 years dispensed medicines for diabetes in 2006. Data were sourced from the Australian Department of Veterans’ Affairs health claims database. Utilization of preventive health services for diabetes was assessed, including claims for glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) test, microabuminuria, podiatry services, diabetes care plans, medication reviews, case conferences, general practitioner (GP) management plans and ophthalmology/optometry services.

Results  Among the 17 095 veterans dispensed medicines for diabetes, more than 80% had four or more co‐morbid conditions. Those with a higher number of co‐morbidities were more likely to have had claims for optometry/ophthalmology services and podiatry services, but not for other services. Veterans with at least one diabetes‐related hospital admission had no more claims for diabetes health services than those who had no diabetics‐related hospital admission, except for endocrinology services (relative risk = 1.26, 95% confidence intervals 1.15–1.37). Veterans with dementia were less likely to have had claims for diabetes health services while patients with renal failure were more likely to have had claims for the services.

Conclusions  Low utilization of preventive diabetes care services is apparent in all co‐morbidity groups. Patients with renal failure or dementia used more and less health services resources, respectively. Given the high mean age of this population, there may be valid reasons for the low use, such as competing health demands and patients’ preferences.
Understanding physical activity facilitators and barriers during and following a supervised exercise programme in Type 2 diabetes: a qualitative study
Authors: Casey D. , De Civita M. , Dasgupta K.
Published: October 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 79–84 (2010)

Aims  To assess barriers and facilitators of participation in a supervised exercise programme, and adherence to exercise after programme completion.

Methods  Focus group discussions addressed factors which could facilitate attendance, current engagement in exercise, reasons for continuing or discontinuing regular exercise and ways to integrate exercise into daily life. Three focus groups, with a total of 16 participants, were led by a trained moderator; audiotapes were transcribed verbatim; transcripts were coded and themes were identified. Themes that recurred across all three focus groups were considered to have achieved saturation.

Results  Motivation was the most critical factor in exercising both during and following the programme. Participants appreciated the monitoring, encouragement and accountability provided by programme staff. They voiced a need for better transition to post‐programme realities of less support and supervision. Co‐morbid conditions were apt to derail them from a regular exercise routine. They viewed the optimal programme as having even greater scheduling flexibility and being closer to them geographically. Post‐programme, walking emerged as the most frequent form of physical activity.

Conclusions  Adults with Type 2 diabetes require long‐term monitoring and support for physical activity and exercise.
Biofeedback for foot offloading in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Pataky Z. , de León Rodriguez D. , Allet L. , Golay A. , Assal M. , Assal J.‐P. , Hauert C.‐A.
Published: October 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 61–64 (2010)

Aims  The reduction of high plantar pressure in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy is mandatory for prevention of foot ulcers and amputations. We used a new biofeedback‐based method to reduce the plantar pressure at an at‐risk area of foot in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.

Methods  Thirteen diabetic patients (age 60.8 ± 12.3 years, body mass index 29.0 ± 5.0 kg/m2) with peripheral neuropathy of the lower limbs were studied. Patients with memory impairment were excluded. The portable in‐shoe foot pressure measurement system (PEDAR®) was used for foot offloading training by biofeedback. The learning procedure consisted in sequences of walking (10 steps), each followed by a subjective estimation of performance and objective feedback. The goal was to achieve three consecutive walking cycles of 10 steps, with a minimum of seven steps inside the range of 40–80% of the baseline peak plantar pressure. The peak plantar pressure was assessed during the learning period and at retention tests.

Results  A significant difference in peak plantar pressure was recorded between the beginning and the end of the learning period (when the target for plantar pressure was achieved) (262 ± 70 vs. 191 ± 53 kPa; P = 0.002). The statistically significant difference between the beginning of learning and all retention tests persisted, even at the 10‐day follow‐up.

Conclusions  Terminal augmented feedback training may positively affect motor learning in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy and could possibly lead to suitable foot offloading. Additional research is needed to confirm the maintenance of offloading in the long term.
Perinatal risk factors for early onset of Type 1 diabetes in a 2000–2005 birth cohort
Authors: Algert C. S. , McElduff A. , Morris J. M. , Roberts C. L.
Published: October 2009

Aims  To examine perinatal risk factors for the onset of Type 1 diabetes before 6 years of age, in a 2000–2005 Australian birth cohort.

Methods  Data from longitudinally linked delivery and hospital admission records (until June 2007) were analysed. Diabetes in mothers and children was identified from International Classification of Diseases 10 diagnosis codes in the hospital records.

Results  There were 272 children admitted to hospital with a first diagnosis of diabetes out of 502 040 live births. Incidence for the infants born in 2000 was 16.0 per 100 000 person‐years. Maternal Type 1 diabetes was a significant risk factor [crude relative risk (RR) 6.33], but maternal Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes were not significantly associated with diabetes in the child. Late preterm birth (34–36 weeks) (RR 1.64) and caesarean section (RR 1.30) increased the risk of a diabetes admission. Size‐for‐gestational‐age was significantly associated with onset of diabetes (small‐for‐gestational age RR 0.48), but neither birth weight categories nor birth weight as a continuous variable were associated with risk of diabetes. Increasing maternal age was associated with an increased risk of diabetes in the child (RR 1.13 for each additional 5 years of age).

Conclusions  This study identified risk factors associated with onset of Type 1 diabetes before 6 years of age, in a recent birth cohort. Size‐for‐gestational‐age had a consistent association with risk of early onset of Type 1 diabetes, small size being protective. Size‐for‐gestational‐age measures should be preferred to birth weight thresholds when assessing risk of diabetes.
A test for improved multi‐step forecasting
Authors: Haywood John , Wilson Granville Tunnicliffe
Published: October 2009

Abstract. We propose a general test of whether a time‐series model, with parameters estimated by minimizing the single‐step forecast error sum of squares, is robust with respect to multi‐step prediction, for some specified lead time. The test may be applied to a, possibly seasonal, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model using the parameters and residuals following maximum likelihood estimation. It is based on a score statistic, evaluated at these estimated parameters, which measures the sensitivity of the multi‐step forecast error variance with respect to the parameters. We derive the large sample properties of the test and show by a simulation study that it has acceptable small sample size properties for higher lead times when applied to the integrated moving average or IMA model that gives rise to the exponentially weighted moving average predictor. We investigate the power of the test when the IMA(1,1) model has been fitted to an ARMA(1,1) process. Further, we demonstrate the high power of the test when an AR is fitted to a process generated as the sum of a stochastic trend and cycle plus noise. We use frequency domain methods for the derivation and sampling properties of the test, and to give insight into its application. The test is illustrated on two real series, and an R function for its general application is available fromhttp://msor.victoria.ac.nz/Main/JohnHaywood.
Gifts and Gifting
Authors: Davies Gary , Whelan Susan , Foley Anthony , Walsh Margaret
Published: October 2009

The terms gift and gifting are rarely formally defined, but are associated with something given without receiving payment, often in the expectation of reciprocation and of changing the relationship with the recipient. Extensive prior work across a number of disciplines tends to focus on gifting as a process and shows a broad conceptualization of the gift construct to include actions as diverse as charitable giving, tipping, self‐gifting and volunteering, where relationship development and reciprocation are largely irrelevant. As a way to develop the area, two proposals are made: first, that gifting research should recognize two different types of gift, transactional and relational; and second, that the exchange paradigm and its underpinning social exchange theory should become central in developing understanding of relational gifting. The authors argue that empirical researchers may usefully revisit the relational paradigm, but by adopting a more quantitative, modelling approach, and the paper illustrates how this might be achieved.
Population history of the plateau pika endemic to the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau based on mtDNA sequence data
Authors: Ci H. X. , Lin G. H. , Cai Z. Y. , Tang L. Z. , Su J. P. , Liu J. Q.
Published: October 2009

We studied 1616 bp of mtDNA sequence in plateau pika Ochotona curzoniae sampled from 10 geographical regional groups to study the population history as well as long‐term gene flow of O. curzoniae. We detected 153 haplotypes in 245 individuals. Mismatch analyses detected rapid population expansion in nine regional groups. Long‐term estimates of gene flow revealed a unidirectional manner from peripheral groups towards central plateau groups. In contrast, gene flow among central plateau groups was bidirectional. Our results indicate that the population expansion of most groups occurred 0.24–0.03 Mya, which mostly coincides with the interglacial period before the last glacial maximum. Gene flow of O. curzoniae was closely related to the different effects of the extensive glacial period (EGP) and the last glacial period (LGP) on the species. The EGP had caused extinction of all central populations, while the LGP had very limited influence on the populations that recolonized the central region. However, the glaciers in the relatively humid areas surrounding the interior of the plateau during the LGP were substantial and had prevented or greatly reduced the ‘counter’ gene flow from the central populations to the edge populations, resulting in a unidirectional gene flow. A hierarchical analysis of molecular variance showed that 55.1% of the total variance was explained by among‐groups structuring while 34.2% was explained by the differences among individuals within populations. Compared with other endemic species on the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, O. curzoniae has a moderate level of the population genetic structure, which is higher than birds and lower than lizard, due to its limited dispersal ability.
Effect of the addition of trisodium citrate and calcium chloride during salting on the rheological and textural properties of Cheddar‐style cheese during ripening
Authors: BRICKLEY CIARA A , LUCEY JOHN A , McSWEENEY PAUL L H
Published: October 2009

The effect of addition of trisodium citrate (TSC) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) on the textural and rheological properties of Cheddar‐style cheese was investigated. Cheese curds were salted (2.5%) with NaCl (control) or NaCl supplemented with either TSC or CaCl2 with a constant ionic strength. Casein‐bound calcium phosphate decreased upon addition of TSC and increased upon addition of CaCl2. Addition of CaCl2 resulted in increased hardness. Addition of TSC resulted in reduced hardness but more elastic cheeses at high temperatures. The addition of TSC or CaCl2 at salting had a significant effect on cheese rheology and texture.
Oaxaca cheese: Manufacture process and physicochemical characteristics
Authors: De OCA‐FLORES ERIC M , CASTELÁN‐ORTEGA OCTAVIO A , ESTRADA‐FLORES JULIETA G , ESPINOZA‐ORTEGA ANGÉLICA
Published: October 2009

Oaxaca cheese is a typical Mexican product of the pasta filata group. In spite of the importance of this cheese, it has been scarcely studied. The objective of this study was to document the method of manufacture and its physicochemical characteristics. There are variations in the process of manufacturing and has been affected by external influences such as time and temperature. There were variations in the physicochemical characteristics as the processes were not standardised, the variations being in protein from 150.3 to 241.5 g/kg; in fat from 170 to 253.3 g/kg; in pH from 4.9 to 5.8; in salt from 8.4 to 36.2 g/kg; in moisture from 124.1 to 610.3 g/kg and in ashes from 18 to 41.8 g/kg.
Effect of some technological parameters on microbiological, chemical and sensory qualities of Civil cheese during ripening
Authors: CAMBAZTEPE FERDA , CAKMAKCI SONGUL , DAGDEMIR ELIF
Published: October 2009

The objective of this research was to determine the effects of different ripening methods [brine salting, dry salting, incorporating with Lor cheese (LR) and vacuum packaging] of Civil cheeses on its microbiological, chemical and sensory properties. Civil cheeses were analysed on the 2nd, 30th, 60th and 90th day of ripening. Chemical compositions of the cheeses were significantly different. While the highest dry matter and titratable acidity values were determined on dry salted cheeses, the highest fat and fat in dry matter contents were found in Civil cheese ripened together with LR. The water‐soluble nitrogen and ripening index values were lower in cheese ripened incorporating with LR. Excessive proteolysis was not seen in any of cheese samples. The ripening in different methods affected microbiological and sensory properties of Civil cheese. Panellists preferred vacuum packaging and dry‐salting cheeses compared to the other samples on the 90th day of ripening.
Nemo‐like kinase is involved in NGF‐induced neurite outgrowth via phosphorylating MAP1B and paxillin
Authors: Ishitani Tohru , Ishitani Shizuka , Matsumoto Kunihiro , Itoh Motoyuki
Published: October 2009

Nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes neurite outgrowth through regulating cytoskeletal organization and cell adhesion. These activities are modulated by protein phosphorylation. Nemo‐like kinase (NLK) is an evolutionarily conserved MAP kinase‐like kinase that phosphorylates several transcription factors. Although NLK is known to be expressed at relatively high levels in the nervous system, its function is not well understood. We found that NGF promotes the translocation of NLK to PC12 cells’ leading edges, and triggers NLK kinase activity in them. Activated NLK directly phosphorylates microtubule‐associated protein‐1B (MAP1B) and the focal adhesion adaptor protein, paxillin. Knockdown of NLK attenuates the phosphorylation of both paxillin and MAP1B and inhibits both the NGF‐induced re‐distribution of F‐actin and neurite outgrowth. We also discovered that NLK is a LiCl‐sensitive kinase. LiCl is known to block NGF‐induced neurite outgrowth and the phosphorylation of MAP1B and paxillin in PC12 cells. Therefore, the effects of LiCl are mediated in part by blocking NLK activity. These results suggest that NLK controls the dynamics of the cytoskeleton downstream of NGF signaling.
Measuring the Effective Tax Burden in the Real World*
Authors: Polito Vito
Published: October 2009

This paper argues that forward‐looking indices of the effective tax burden on income from capital – namely, effective marginal and average tax rates – are negatively biased because traditional models overlook dividend constraints associated with financial tax incentives, such as accelerated depreciation. The paper presents measures of the two indices adjusted to remove the bias and compares the new indices with the traditional ones. Numerical simulations carried out to quantify the magnitude of the bias for France, Germany, Ireland, Italy and the UK give evidence of sizeable distortions in the unadjusted indices and, in turn, suggest significant mismeasurement in the current assessment of the effective tax burden.
Contract Type and the Cost of Provision: Evidence from Maintenance Service Contracts*
Authors: Jensen Paul H. , Stonecash Robin E.
Published: October 2009

More than half a billion dollars are spent each year on the maintenance of Australia's urban water and sewerage networks. Expenditure is governed through a mix of in‐house and outsourced maintenance service contracts. We re‐examine issues relating to the relationship between the cost of maintenance service provision and the type of contract used. We take advantage of the fact that water retailers in Melbourne use a mix of contract types – including fixed‐price (FP) and cost‐plus (C+) contracts – for the provision of water and sewerage network maintenance services. Our results suggest that the C+ contract results in substantial savings.
Lipid mediator interplay: resolvin D1 attenuates inflammation evoked by glutathione‐conjugated lipid peroxidation products
Authors: Filep János G
Published: October 2009

Non‐enzymatic oxidation of cellular lipids, one of the characteristic features of inflammation, leads to formation of highly reactive and toxic α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes, such as 4‐hydroxy‐trans‐2‐nonenal (HNE). Conjugation of HNE with reduced glutathione (GS‐HNE) is widely believed to represent a form of detoxification. The study by Spite et al. in the current issue of the British Journal of Pharmacology shows that glutathiolation of HNE confers potent pro‐inflammatory properties on this α,β‐unsaturated aldehyde. They find that GS‐HNE directly activates human neutrophil granulocytes in vitro and evokes peritonitis in mice. Pre‐treatment with resolvin D1, which is derived from ω‐3 fatty acids, markedly attenuated the peritoneal leukocyte accumulation and production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes induced by GS‐HNE. Their findings have profound implications for the analysis of inflammation in describing the generation of a novel class of pro‐inflammatory mediators, through glutathione‐dependent metabolism of lipid‐peroxidation products, and emphasize the therapeutic potential of resolvin D1 in inflammatory diseases.

This article is part of a themed issue on Mediators and Receptors in the Resolution of Inflammation. To view this issue visit http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2009
Proteases and antiproteases in chronic neutrophilic lung disease – relevance to drug discovery
Authors: Greene Catherine M , McElvaney Noel G
Published: October 2009

Chronic inflammatory lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis and emphysema are characterized by higher‐than‐normal levels of pulmonary proteases. While these enzymes play important roles such as bacterial killing, their dysregulated expression or activity can adversely impact on the inflammatory process. The existence of efficient endogenous control mechanisms that can dampen or halt this overexuberant protease activityin vivois essential for the effective resolution of inflammatory lung disease. The function of pulmonary antiproteases is to fulfil this role. Interestingly, in addition to their antiprotease activity, protease inhibitors in the lung also often possess other intrinsic properties that contribute to microbial killing or termination of the inflammatory process. This review will outline important features of chronic inflammation that are regulated by pulmonary proteases and will describe the various mechanisms by which antiproteases attempt to counterbalance exaggerated protease‐mediated inflammatory events. These proteases, antiproteases and their modifiers represent interesting targets for therapeutic intervention.

This article is part of a themed issue on Mediators and Receptors in the Resolution of Inflammation. To view this issue visithttp://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2009