bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of candesartan cilexetil on carotid intima-media thickness in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients. MITEC study: design and baseline characteristics
Authors: Valensi Paul , Baguet Jean-Philippe , Asmar Roland , Nisse-Durgeat Sophie , Mallion Jean-Michel
Published: August 2008

Media Intima Thickness Evaluation of Candesartan (MITEC), a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group study assessed the effect of candesartan cilexetil (CC) versus amlodipine (AML) administered during three years, on carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients. The study design, the baseline characteristics, and the determinants of carotid IMT are presented.

After a placebo run-in period of four weeks, patients were randomised to CC (n=100) or AML (n=109). The mean blood pressure values were 155.9±11.0 mmHg, 91.3± 8.0 mmHg and 64.6±11.8 mmHg for systolic, diastolic and pulse pressure respectively, and the mean HbA1C was 7.1±1.3%. The mean common carotid IMT was 0.74±0.16 mm. The univariate regression analyses showed a significant correlation between IMT and age (p<0.0001), gender (p=0.013) and creatinine clearance (p=0.03). Only age was significantly correlated with carotid IMT (p<0.0001) in the multivariate analysis.

In conclusion, the MITEC population has good metabolic control at baseline where carotid IMT is mainly related with age.
Summarising the use of thiazolidinediones with insulin
Authors: Barnett Anthony H
Published: August 2008

Both insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell function normally contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, with the latter also responsible for the progression of the disease. Successful management inevitably requires therapy that addresses both underlying defects. Clinical trials support the use of agents with complementary mechanisms of action. The major therapeutic effect of the thiazolidinediones in type 2 diabetes is improvement of insulin sensitivity and they are thus ideally suited for combination therapy with insulin, although they can also be used as monotherapy or in dual or triple oral agent therapy. In addition to improving glycaemic control, the thiazolidinediones have favourable effects on a number of cardiovascular risk factors and may reduce the risk of long-term diabetes-related complications independent of their effects on glycaemic control. Combination therapy of a thiazolidinedione with insulin is no longer contraindicated in Europe, and this combination can provide improvements in glycaemic control that are additive to the effects of insulin alone.
Review: Biomarkers in clinical trials and drug development: measurement of cardiometabolic risk
Authors: Matfin Glenn
Published: August 2008

Cardiometabolic risk is linked to a cluster of modifiable factors, including established risk factors such as obesity, dyslipidaemia, raised blood pressure, and 'nontraditional' risk factors closely related to central (especially intra-abdominal) adiposity. These 'nontraditional' risk factors include dysfunction of inflammation, coagulation, platelets, fibrinolysis, lipoproteins, endothelium, plaque instability, and miscellaneous biological processes. Both the established ('traditional') and emerging ('nontraditional') cardiometabolic risk factors are components of the metabolic syndrome.

In patients with known or suspected cardiometabolic diseases, biomarkers are increasingly being explored as indicators of disease presence, severity or activity, prognosis and therapeutic efficacy. Many biomarkers have been proposed for prediction of the macrovascular (and microvascular) complications of cardiometabolic diseases. This review provides background information on biomarkers, and an assessment of the possible utility of biomarkers in clinical trials and drug development programmes that include measurement of cardiometabolic risk.
Review: Drug treatments for obesity: where are we heading and how do we get there?
Authors: Sonnenberg Gabriele E , Matfin Glenn , Reinhardt Rickey R
Published: August 2008

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions with an estimated 1.7 billion people worldwide classified as either overweight or obese. Obesity is associated with multiple co-morbidities (often clustered as the metabolic syndrome), and can result in decreased life expectancy, with enormous costs to society. Even modest weight loss has been demonstrated to exhibit beneficial effects on the co-morbidities of obesity. While reduced caloric intake and increased physical activity, combined with behavioural modification, appears to be the most rational approach to weight reduction, it only offers short-lived success. For severely obese individuals, bariatric surgery has become an increasingly preferred option resulting in dramatic and well-maintained weight reductions followed by significant changes in obesity-related diseases.

Currently, few anti-obesity drugs are approved by regulatory authorities for long-term use (i.e. orlistat, sibutramine and rimonabant). Anti-obesity drug development is an active and dynamic field focusing on two major approaches: 1) inhibiting energy intake by addressing the input into the hypothalamic feeding centre or, 2) attempting to accelerate energy expenditure. Overcoming the hurdles of developing such medications is a daunting task, but it can be anticipated that several drugs in current development might become available within the next decade, and combination therapy of two or more agents could be the future of pharmacological prevention and treatment of obesity.
Delivering improved management and outcomes in diabetic kidney disease in routine clinical care
Authors: Hardy Kevin J , Furlong Niall J , Hulme Shirley A , O'Brien Sarah V
Published: August 2008

Aim

To examine the impact of service re-design on management and outcomes in type 2 diabetic patients with microalbuminuria and diabetic nephropathy.

Methods

The impact of implementation of evidence-based processes of care (blood pressure [BP] control, glycaemic control, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade, aspirin and cholesterol-lowering therapy, and smoking cessation) on progression to nephropathy in 338 microalbuminuria patients; and on death, doubling of serum creatinine, new end-stage renal failure (ESRF) and cardiovascular events in 127 nephropathy patients is described.

Results

Effective implementation of evidence-based processes of care improved surrogate outcomes (BP, HbA 1C and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol), was associated with little progression of microalbuminuria to nephropathy (6.1 per 100-patient-years), and in diabetic nephropathy patients were associated with rates of doubling of serum creatinine (1.4 per 100-patient-years), progression to ESRF (1.1 per 100-patient-years), cardiovascular events (3.2 per 100-patient-years) and mortality (2.2 per 100-patient-years) that compares favourably with landmark trials.

Conclusion

Service re-design in the management of type 2 diabetic kidney disease can deliver improved care and outcomes comparable with landmark trials in a routine clinical care setting.
Review: Challenges in developing therapies for the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Matfin Glenn
Published: August 2008

Metabolic syndrome refers to a clustering of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors within a single individual. The established risk factor such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and other emerging risk factors are closely related to intra-abdominal adiposity. Insulin resistance is also considered to be an important factor in the aetiology of this syndrome. The emerging risk factors include dysfunction of inflammation, coagulation, platelets, fibrinolysis, lipoproteins, endothelium, and other biological processes. Despite the potential utility of having all the CV risk factors under one umbrella term, debate continues about the very existence of the metabolic syndrome and its diagnostic criteria. Nevertheless, the component risk factors include some of the most common and serious public health challenges facing the developed and developing world today. By treating component risk factors, many existing therapies and new drugs in development target several aspects of metabolic syndrome. However, no drug is currently approved specifically for treatment of the metabolic syndrome.

The essential features of the metabolic syndrome, and some of the challenges in developing treatment options are discussed herein.
Quantifying changes in retinal anatomy after interventions for diabetic maculopathy
Authors: Soomro Hibba , Burnett Lesley , Davies Nigel
Published: August 2008

Introduction

Diabetic maculopathy remains the major cause of loss of vision in diabetes. There is evidence to show that control of lipid levels reduces the amount of exudate in diabetic maculopathy, but to date there is no information on the effect of lipid reduction on diabetic macular oedema.

Purpose

The purpose of this case series was to compare retinal thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT) of patients with exudative diabetic maculopathy whose only change in management was starting statins or increasing the current dose.

MethodsV"

Four patients with exudative diabetic maculopathy had serial OCT measurements to assess retinal thickness M before and after commencing or increasing their statin dose. Results

Analysis showed a reduction of macula thickness in all cases. Visual acuity also improved during the time course of the measurements.

Conclusion

Statins may aid management of diabetic maculopathy by reducing macular oedema. This case series gives the first quantified evidence of the effect of statins on reduction of diabetic macular oedema.
Type 2 diabetes in people of South Asian origin: potential strategies for prevention
Authors: Chowdhury Tahseen A , Hitman Graham A
Published: August 2008

South Asians have a one in three lifetime risk for the development of diabetes, developing the condition ten years earlier than Europids. The high social and economic burden of diabetes in South Asians is augmented by greater rates of attrition from renal and cardiovascular disease. This article reviews the epidemiology and pathogenesis of diabetes in South Asians, and potential strategies by which the condition could be prevented or delayed in this high risk group.
Review: Aldosterone antagonism in type 2 diabetes mellitus — a new therapeutic approach to diabetic macrovascular disease?
Authors: Swaminathan Krishnan , Davies Justine , Struthers Allan
Published: August 2008

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system has long been a target of pharmacological approaches for the control of blood pressure and increasingly for heart failure, myocardial infarction, nephropathy and diabetes. Clinical trials involving the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis have traditionally focused on angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin (Ang) II receptor blockers, thereby laying the emphasis on inhibiting Ang II. It is now acknowledged that aldosterone is also an important culprit in addition to Ang II. Recently, major intervention trials in heart failure have demonstrated the marked cardiovascular beneficial effect of aldosterone antagonism over and above ACE-inhibitor therapy, underscoring the harmful effects of aldosterone in cardiovascular disease. Diabetes is now increasingly recognised as not only a metabolic disorder but a vascular disease as well. Therefore, the prospect arises that aldosterone antagonism may translate in reduced cardiovascular risk in a high-risk disorder like diabetes mellitus. If so, aldosterone antagonists may offer a new therapy in diabetes mellitus for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis 2008;8:16-19
Long-term costs and clinical outcomes associated with metformin-glibenclamide combination tablets (Glucovance®) in patients with type 2 diabetes sub-optimally controlled by metformin: a modelling study in the French setting
Authors: Ray Joshua A , Huet Dominique , Valentine William J , Palmer Andrew J , Cugnardey Nathalie , Renaudin Corinne
Published: August 2008

Objectives

Most patients eventually become hyperglycaemic on metformin monotherapy. We modelled clinical and economic consequences for such patients of switching to a single-tablet metformin-glibenclamide combination (Glucovance®) or glibenclamide, or increasing metformin dosage.

Methods

A validated computer simulation model of diabetes projected long-term clinical and cost outcomes for the French setting, using data from a 16-week randomised controlled trial.

Results

Compared with metformin, Glucovance® 500/2.5 mg or 500/5 mg was associated with increased quality-adjusted life expectancy (0.45 and 0.27 quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs] respectively; base case analysis), reduced direct medical costs (by 3,331 and 2,026) and fewer diabetes-related complications. Compared with glibenclamide, Glucovance® 500/5 mg increased quality-adjusted life expectancy by 0.28 QALYs and reduced direct medical costs by 1,793.

Conclusions

From a third-party healthcare payer perspective in France, Glucovance® represents a dominant treatment option versus metformin or glibenclamide for patients sub-optimally controlled on metformin monotherapy.
Age at diagnosis of diabetes in a secondary care population: 1992—2005
Authors: Sharp Patrick S , Brown Beata , Qureshi Asjid
Published: August 2008

To assess the change in age at diagnosis of diabetes over time in a secondary care diabetes clinic, clinical characteristics of patients attending were compared in 1992 and 2005. Those of European and South Asian origins were analysed separately.

Results In 1992, 28.4% of patients of European and 7.5% of patients of South Asian origins had type 1 diabetes. These proportions were similar in 2005. Mean age at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes remained unchanged from 1992 to 2005: Europeans: 20.6 versus 20.2 years (p=0.63) and in South Asians: 23.7 versus 21.3 years (p=0.21). By contrast the age at diagnosis of type 2 diabetes was younger in both groups in 2005 compared with 1992: Europeans: 54.0 versus 57.1 years (p<0.001). South Asians: 47.5 versus 49.0 years (p=0.003).

Conclusions These data suggest an earlier age at diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in those of both, European and South Asian origin over 13 years of study.
Review: The role of omega-3 fatty acids in cardiovascular disease, hypertriglyceridaemia and diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kandasamy Narayanan , Joseph Franklin , Goenka Niru
Published: August 2008

It has been suggested that omega-3 fatty acids confer benefit in patients with known coronary heart disease by significantly reducing all-cause mortality and the risk of sudden death caused by cardiac arrhythmias. This may be as a result of the triglyceride-lowering effect of omega-3 fatty acids at high doses. Much of the evidence in favour of omega-3 in cardiovascular disease relates to studies which looked at the effects of increased intake from dietary sources. Oily fish (such as salmon and tuna), flaxseed, canola oil and walnuts, are all rich dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Firm evidence for pharmacological supplementation exists in a few secondary prevention studies and recent National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence guidance only recommends pharmacological omega-3 supplements to patients within three months of a myocardial infarction, to be continued for up to four years, assuming dietary intake is insufficient. There is currently little evidence for specific benefits of omega-3 supplementation in patients with diabetes.
Is non-dipping of nocturnal blood pressure in type 2 diabetes associated with increased incidence of microalbuminuria?
Authors: Heggie Alison J , Adamson Karen A , Marioni Riccardo E , Padfield Paul L , Strachan Mark Wj
Published: August 2008

icroalbuminuria has been associated with Mnon-dipping of nocturnal blood pressure (BP) in people with type 2 diabetes, but the mechanism of this association is unclear. We aimed to identify the development of microalbuminuria in patients with nocturnal non-dipping of BP and type 2 diabetes. Data were examined from 150 people with type 2 diabetes who had undergone ambulatory BP monitoring, non-dippers were defined as those with a systolic nocturnal BP dip less than 10% of the daytime BP.

The development of microalbuminuria, over five years of follow-up, in dippers and non-dippers was not significantly different. Non-dippers who were microalbuminuric at baseline were more likely to have a higher body mass index (p=0.01) and to be male (p<0.01).

This lack of a difference may be due to the initial exclusion of microalbuminuric patients, who may be genetically predetermined to develop microalbuminuria. Further prospective trials are required to investigate this relationship.
New Voices in the Struggle/ Nuevas Voces en la Lucha
Authors: Sotello Viernes Turner Caroline , Hernández Edwin I. , Peña Milagros , González Juan Carlos
Published: August 2008

Little progress has been made to increase Latina/o faculty representation in theological education. In this study, 33 interviews with Latina/o theological faculty identify supports and challenges to their scholarly development. Latino critical theory guides the analysis. Narratives reveal faculty experiences with oppression, challenging dominant ideology, commitment to social justice, and the use of their experiential knowledge in academe. A discussion of the findings and the impact of the Latina/o presence in theological education conclude the article.
Duplex Evaluation of Incompetent Perforator Veins and Sonography-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Garrison Kassandra
Published: August 2008

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a debilitating disorder that causes millions of Americans to suffer lost wages and forced lifestyle changes. If left untreated, CVI can progress from varices and skin changes to nonhealing venous stasis ulcerations. The condition is often associated with incompetent perforator veins (IPVs) as a result of prolonged elevated venous pressure due to either an obstructive process or venous valve damage. Duplex assessment is a simple and efficient technique used to identify IPVs. This case study reviews the role of sonography as it pertains to the use of the Radiofrequency Stylet, a relatively new device designed to treat IPVs.
Time course of airway remodelling after an acute chlorine gas exposure in mice
Authors: Tuck Stephanie A , Ramos-Barbón David , Campbell Holly , McGovern Toby , Karmouty-Quintana Harry , Martin James G
Published: August 2008

Accidental chlorine (Cl2) gas inhalation is a common cause of acute airway injury. However, little is known about the kinetics of airway injury and repair after Cl2exposure. We investigated the time course of airway epithelial damage and repair in mice after a single exposure to a high concentration of Cl2gas. Mice were exposed to 800 ppm Cl2gas for 5 minutes and studied from 12 hrs to 10 days post-exposure. The acute injury phase after Cl2exposure (≤ 24 hrs post-exposure) was characterized by airway epithelial cell apoptosis (increased TUNEL staining) and sloughing, elevated protein in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and a modest increase in airway responses to methacholine. The repair phase after Cl2exposure was characterized by increased airway epithelial cell proliferation, measured by immunoreactive proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), with maximal proliferation occurring 5 days after Cl2exposure. At 10 days after Cl2exposure the airway smooth muscle mass was increased relative to controls, suggestive of airway smooth muscle hyperplasia and there was evidence of airway fibrosis. No increase in goblet cells occurred at any time point. We conclude that a single exposure of mice to Cl2gas causes acute changes in lung function, including pulmonary responsiveness to methacholine challenge, associated with airway damage, followed by subsequent repair and airway remodelling.
Engaging participants in a complex intervention trial in Australian General Practice
Authors: Perkins David , Harris Mark F , Tan Jocelyn , Christl Bettina , Taggart Jane , Fanaian Mahnaz
Published: August 2008

Background

The paper examines the key issues experienced in recruiting and retaining practice involvement in a large complex intervention trial in Australian General Practice.

Methods

Reflective notes made by research staff and telephone interviews with staff from general practices which expressed interest, took part or withdrew from a trial of a complex general practice intervention.

Results

Recruitment and retention difficulties were due to factors inherent in the demands and context of general practice, the degree of engagement of primary care organisations (Divisions of General Practice), perceived benefits by practices, the design of the trial and the timing and complexity of data collection.

Conclusion

There needs to be clearer articulation to practices of the benefits of the research to participants and streamlining of the design and processes of data collection and intervention to fit in with their work practices. Ultimately deeper engagement may require additional funding and ongoing participation through practice research networks.

Trial Registration

Current Controlled Trials ACTRN12605000788673
The HTLV-1 Tax interactome
Authors: Boxus Mathieu , Twizere Jean-Claude , Legros Sébastien , Dewulf Jean-François , Kettmann Richard , Willems Luc
Published: August 2008

The Tax1 oncoprotein encoded by Human T-lymphotropic virus type I is a major determinant of viral persistence and pathogenesis. Tax1 affects a wide variety of cellular signalling pathways leading to transcriptional activation, proliferation and ultimately transformation. To carry out these functions, Tax1 interacts with and modulates activity of a number of cellular proteins. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge of the Tax1 interactome and propose a rationale for the broad range of cellular proteins identified so far.
Subcutaneous hydatid cysts occurring in the palm and the thigh: two case reports
Authors: Dirican Abuzer , Unal Bulent , Kayaalp Cuneyt , Kirimlioglu Vedat
Published: August 2008

Introduction

Hydatid cyst disease is common in some regions of the world and is usually located in the liver and lungs. This report presents two cases of primary hydatid cysts located subcutaneously: one in the medial thigh and one in the left palm between the index and middle fingers.

Case presentations

A 64-year-old male farmer visited our hospital because a swelling on the right medial thigh had grown during the last year. Superficial ultrasound and computed tomography revealed a lesion resembling a hydatid cyst. A germinative membrane was encountered during surgical excision. Pathological examination was compatible with a hydatid cyst. The second case involved a 67-year-old male farmer who complained of a swelling that had grown in his left palm in the last year. The preliminary diagnosis was a lipoma. However, a hydatid cyst was diagnosed during surgical excision and after the pathological examination. The patient did not have a history of hydatid cyst disease and hydatid cysts were not detected in other organs. There has been no disease recurrence after following both patients for 3 years.

Conclusion

A hydatid cyst should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous cystic lesions in regions where hydatid cysts are endemic, and should be excised totally, with an intact wall, to avoid recurrence.
Hypersensitivity to intravenous ondansetron: a case report
Authors: Mehra Karishma K , Gogtay Nithya J , Ainchwar Rohan , Bichile Lata S
Published: August 2008

Introduction

Ondansetron, a 5-hydroxytryptamine3 receptor antagonist widely used in the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, is associated with various unusual adverse drug reactions. In this paper, we describe a hypersensitivity reaction to a single intravenous dose of ondansetron.

Case presentation

A 19-year-old woman presented to the emergency department of our institute with 3–4 episodes of nausea, vomiting and epigastric distress. She had a diagnosis of polycystic ovarian disease and had been on treatment with cyproterone acetate 2 mg, ethinyl estradiol 0.035 mg, finasteride 5 mg and metformin 500 mg for a month. She had been taking oral roxithromycin 500 mg per day for the past 3 days for treatment of a mild upper respiratory tract infection. She also occasionally took rabeprazole 10 mg for gastritis which had worsened after treatment with roxithromycin. She was treated with a single 4 mg dose of ondansetron intravenously. She immediately developed urticaria, which was treated with intravenous dexamethasone 4 mg and chlorpheniramine maleate 20 mg. The reaction abated within a few minutes and she was discharged within an hour. She was asymptomatic at 72 hours of follow-up.

She had no history of ondansetron exposure, or drug or food allergies. On the Naranjo's causality assessment scale, the adverse event was 6 indicating a "probable" reaction to ondansetron.

Conclusion

5-hydroxytryptamine3 receptor antagonists have been associated with life-threatening adverse reactions such as hypotension, seizures and anaphylaxis. The wide availability of these drugs in India has promoted their off label use in the treatment of gastritis, migraine and so on. Our case represents an off label use in a patient who could have been treated with a safer drug.

Some authors have suggested that anaphylaxis may be a class effect while others think it may be drug specific. In our case, the reaction could be either anaphylaxis or anaphylactoid, but the latter seems more likely given the history of absence of prior sensitization. Other components of the drug, such as solvent, also need to be considered as a cause of this reaction. Considering all of the existing evidence, we need to be more cautious while using ondansetron and also to be aware of the various unusual side effects, especially when used in an out-of-hospital set-up.

Our case report underscores the importance of physicians judiciously using the drug, particularly in the outpatient setting so as to reduce the incidence of avoidable adverse drug reactions.
The miR-17-5p microRNA is a key regulator of the G1/S phase cell cycle transition
Authors: Cloonan Nicole , Brown Mellissa K , Steptoe Anita L , Wani Shivangi , Chan Wei Ling , Forrest Alistair RR , Kolle Gabriel , Gabrielli Brian , Grimmond Sean M
Published: August 2008

Background

MicroRNAs are modifiers of gene expression, acting to reduce translation through either translational repression or mRNA cleavage. Recently, it has been shown that some microRNAs can act to promote or suppress cell transformation, with miR-17-92 described as the first oncogenic microRNA. The association of miR-17-92 encoded microRNAs with a surprisingly broad range of cancers not only underlines the clinical significance of this locus, but also suggests that miR-17-92 may regulate fundamental biological processes, and for these reasons miR-17-92 has been considered as a therapeutic target.

Results

In this study, we show that miR-17-92 is a cell cycle regulated locus, and ectopic expression of a single microRNA (miR-17-5p) is sufficient to drive a proliferative signal in HEK293T cells. For the first time, we reveal the mechanism behind this response - miR-17-5p acts specifically at the G1/S-phase cell cycle boundary, by targeting more than 20 genes involved in the transition between these phases. While both pro- and anti-proliferative genes are targeted by miR-17-5p, pro-proliferative mRNAs are specifically up-regulated by secondary and/or tertiary effects in HEK293T cells.

Conclusion

The miR-17-5p microRNA is able to act as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor in different cellular contexts; our model of competing positive and negative signals can explain both of these activities. The coordinated suppression of proliferation-inhibitors allows miR-17-5p to efficiently de-couple negative regulators of the MAPK (mitogen activated protein kinase) signaling cascade, promoting growth in HEK293T cells. Additionally, we have demonstrated the utility of a systems biology approach as a unique and rapid approach to uncover microRNA function.
Converse Regulatory Functions of Estrogen Receptor-α and -β Subtypes Expressed in Hypothalamic Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons
Authors: Hu Lian , Gustofson Robert L. , Feng Hao , Ki Leung Po , Mores Nadia , Krsmanovic Lazar Z. , Catt Kevin J.
Published: August 2008

Estradiol (E2) acts as a potent feedback molecule between the ovary and hypothalamic GnRH neurons, and exerts both positive and negative regulatory actions on GnRH synthesis and secretion. However, the extent to which these actions are mediated by estrogen receptors (ERs) expressed in GnRH neurons has been controversial. In this study, Single-cell RT-PCR revealed the expression of both ERα and ERβ isoforms in cultured fetal and adult rat hypothalamic GnRH neurons. Both ERα and ERβ or individual ERs were expressed in 94% of cultured fetal GnRH neurons. In adult female rats at diestrus, 68% of GnRH neurons expressed ERs, followed by 54% in estrus and 19% in proestrus. Expression of individual ERs was found in 24% of adult male GnRH neurons. ERα exerted marked Gi-mediated inhibitory effects on spontaneous action potential (AP) firing, cAMP production, and pulsatile GnRH secretion, indicating its capacity for negative regulation of GnRH neuronal function. In contrast, increased E2 concentration and ERβ agonists increase the rate of AP firing, GnRH secretion, and cAMP production, consistent with ERβ-dependent positive regulation of GnRH secretion. Consonant with the coupling of ERα to pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi/o proteins, E2 also activates G protein-activated inwardly rectifying potassium channels, decreasing membrane excitability and slowing the firing of spontaneous APs in hypothalamic GnRH neurons. These findings demonstrate that the dual actions of E2 on GnRH neuronal membrane excitability, cAMP production, and GnRH secretion are mediated by the dose-dependent activation of ERα and ERβ expressed in hypothalamic GnRH neurons.
Fgfs control homeostatic regeneration in adult zebrafish fins
Authors: Wills Airon A. , Kidd Ambrose R. , Lepilina Alexandra , Poss Kenneth D.
Published: August 2008

Adult teleost fish and urodele amphibians possess a spectacular ability to regenerate amputated appendages, based on formation and maintenance of progenitor tissue called a blastema. Although injury-induced, or facultative,appendage regeneration has been studied extensively, the extent to which homeostatic regeneration maintains these structures has not been examined. Here, we found that transgenic inhibition of Fgf receptors in uninjured zebrafish caused severe atrophy of all fin types within 2 months, revealing a requirement for Fgfs to preserve dermal bone, joint structures and supporting tissues. Appendage maintenance involved low-level expression of markers of blastema-based regeneration, focused in distal structures displaying recurrent cell death and proliferation. Conditional mutations in the ligand Fgf20a and the kinase Mps1, factors crucial for regeneration of amputated fins, also caused rapid, progressive loss of fin structures in otherwise uninjured animals. Our experiments reveal that the facultative machinery that regenerates amputated teleost fins also has a surprisingly vigorous role in homeostatic regeneration.
Planar polarity genes in theDrosophilawing regulate the localisation of the FH3-domain protein Multiple Wing Hairs to control the site of hair production
Authors: Strutt David , Warrington Samantha J.
Published: August 2008

The core planar polarity proteins play important roles in coordinating cell polarity, in part by adopting asymmetric subcellular localisations that are likely to serve as cues for cell polarisation by as yet uncharacterised pathways. Here we describe the role of Multiple Wing Hairs (Mwh), a novel formin homology 3 (FH3)-domain protein, which acts downstream of the core polarity proteins to restrict the production of actin-rich prehairs to distal cell edges in the Drosophila pupal wing. Mwh appears to function as a repressor of actin filament formation and, in its absence, ectopic actin bundles are seen across the entire apical surface of cells. We show that the proximally localised core polarity protein Strabismus acts via the downstream effector proteins Inturned, Fuzzy and Fritz to stabilise Mwh in apico-proximal cellular regions. In addition, the distally localised core polarity protein Frizzled positively promotes prehair initiation, suggesting that both proximal and distal cellular cues act together to ensure accurate prehair placement.
A new family of transcription factors
Authors: Yamada Yoko , Wang Hong Yu , Fukuzawa Masashi , Barton Geoffrey J. , Williams Jeffrey G.
Published: August 2008

CudA, a nuclear protein required for Dictyosteliumprespore-specific gene expression, binds in vivo to the promoter of the cotC prespore gene. A 14 nucleotide region of the cotCpromoter binds CudA in vitro and ECudA, an Entamoeba CudA homologue,also binds to this site. The CudA and ECudA DNA-binding sites contain a dyad and, consistent with a symmetrical binding site, CudA forms a homodimer in the yeast two-hybrid system. Mutation of CudA binding sites within the cotC promoter reduces expression from cotC in prespore cells. The CudA and ECudA proteins share a 120 amino acid core of homology,and clustered point mutations introduced into two highly conserved motifs within the ECudA core region decrease its specific DNA binding in vitro. This region, the presumptive DNA-binding domain, is similar in sequence to domains in two Arabidopsis proteins and one Oryza protein. Significantly, these are the only proteins in the two plant species that contain an SH2 domain. Such a structure, with a DNA-binding domain located upstream of an SH2 domain, suggests that the plant proteins are orthologous to metazoan STATs. Consistent with this notion, the DNA sequence of the CudA half site, GAA, is identical to metazoan STAT half sites, although the relative positions of the two halves of the dyad are reversed. These results define a hitherto unrecognised class of transcription factors and suggest a model for the evolution of STATs and their DNA-binding sites.
Parent Training for Young Children With Developmental Disabilities: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: McIntyre Laura Lee
Published: August 2008

A randomized controlled trial was used to evaluate a parent training intervention for caregivers with preschool-age children with developmental disabilities. The 21 families in the experimental group received usual care plus the 12-week Incredible Years Parent Training Program with developmental delay modifications. Families in the control group (n = 23) received usual care, including early childhood education and related services. Results suggest that this parent training intervention was superior to usual care for young children with developmental delays or disabilities in reducing negative parent–child interactions and child behavior problems. Participants in the experimental group indicated high satisfaction with treatment. Additional research is necessary to document maintenance and generalization of treatment outcomes.
Functional Analysis of the Early Development of Self-Injurious Behavior: Incorporating Gene–Environment Interactions
Authors: Langthorne Paul , McGill Peter
Published: August 2008

The analysis of the early development of self-injurious behavior (SIB) has, to date, reflected the wider distinction between nature and nurture. Despite the status of genetic factors as risk markers for the later development of SIB, a model that accounts for their influence on early behavior–environment relations is lacking. In the current paper we argue that the investigation of gene–environment interactions (GxE) and other forms of gene–environment interplay could potentially enhance current approaches to the study of self-injury. A conceptual model of the early development of SIB based explicitly on such relations is presented. The model is consistent with the basic tenets of functional analysis. Implications for research and the assessment, treatment, and prevention of SIB are discussed.
New records of Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) from Peruvian Amazonian region
Authors: Felippe-Bauer Maria Luiza , Cáceres Abraham , Silva Cristiane Santos da , Valderrama-Bazan William , Gonzales-Perez Antero , Costa Janira Martins
Published: August 2008

Ten species of Culicoides Latreille are reported for the first time from Peruvian Departments of Amazonas, Cajamarca, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Piura and San Martin. The synonymy and distribution of the species in the New World are given.
On the use of open or closed traps in the capture of drosophilids
Authors: Penariol Leiza , Bicudo Hermione Elly Melara de Campos , Madi-Ravazzi Lilian
Published: August 2008

The use of open or closed traps in order to standardize the drosophilid collection is still a matter of discussion among researchers. In this paper, comparative data of drosophilid collections, using open and closed traps are presented. The collections were made monthly, during one year, in one fragment of a semidecidual forest located in the São Paulo State, Brazil. The efficiency of the traps was evaluated by the use of community descriptors: population abundance and richness and diversity of species. Closed traps were more efficient than the open ones in relation to the population abundance and the species richness, indicating their adequacy for standardization of drosophilid collection in studies of biodiversity and seasonality.
Temporal changes in caiçara artisanal fishing and alternatives for management: a case study on the southeastern Brazilian coast
Authors: Lopes Priscila Fabiana Macedo , Begossi Alpina
Published: August 2008

This paper describes a case study of the changes in fishing that occurred in a Brazilian coastal community after a 10 year interval (1992-2002). There was a decrease in the mean amount of fish caught daily (from 14 kg to 11.32 kg) and annually (from 4.2 t to 3.4 t) and in the richness of species caught (from 21 to 17 species); there was also a low similarity in the species composition of the fish landings (Morisita-Horn index Ch = 0.24). These changes suggested a decline in the locally exploited fish populations, which probably caused the discontinuation of commercial artisanal fishing. However, the diversity of fish caught by hook and line and purse-seine fishing was higher in the second period, whereas there was no significant difference in the diversity of fish caught using gillnets. Despite these changes, the CPUE showed no significant alteration and non-intensive fishing is still practiced by a few (6-35) people in the community. Co-management alternatives (fishing regulations, oysterfarms, ecotourism, etc.) are suggested and may be applicable to other coastal communities after appropriate adaptation for each location.
Gastric lesions associated with the presence of Anisakis spp. Dujardin, 1845 (Nematoda: Anisakidae) in Cetaceans stranded on the coast of Ceara, Brazil
Authors: Motta Monica Regina Alves , Pinheiro Diana Célia Sousa Nunes , Carvalho Vitor Luz , Viana Daniel de Araújo , Vicente Ana Carolina Paulo , Iñiguez Alena Mayo
Published: August 2008

The gastric compartments of ten cetaceans stranded on the coast of Ceará State, Northeast Brazil were analyzed in this study. Gastric Anisakis spp. was diagnosed in all individuals involved in this study. Parasites and tissue samples were collected during necropsy. The presence of Anisakis parasites showed similar distribution across the three gastric compartments and the majority was free within the gastric lumen. Macroscopically, the lesions were predominantly characterized by the presence of ulcers (60%, 6/10) within the gastric mucosa, occasionally associated with edema and hemorrhage (30%, 3/10). Eight cetaceans (8/10 - 80%) presented gastric microscopic alterations and in 75% (6/8) of these animals, chronic lymphoplasmocytic gastritis was observed with varying degrees of distribution and severity. Additionally, eosinophilic and granulomatous inflammation with giant cells, hemosiderosis, fibrosis and areas of necrosis were associated with location of parasites within the gastric mucosa. In this study, it was shown that the majority of cetaceans with the presence of Anisakis parasites presented macro and microscopic gastric alterations. These nematodes are probably associated with the development of these alterations; however, more pathological approaches are still required.
A new species of viviparous moth fly (Diptera, Psychodidae, Psychodinae) from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Cordeiro Danilo , Bravo Freddy
Published: August 2008

A new species of Psychoda Latreille from Brazil is described and illustrated, and represents the first record of viviparous species in the genus Psychoda.
Espécies novas de Chromatonotus Hebard, 1920 da região da Amazônia (Blattellidae, Blattellinae)
Authors: Lopes Sonia Maria , Khouri Andréa
Published: August 2008

Duas espécies novas de Chromatonotus Hebard, 1920 do estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil, são descritas: Chromatonotus chirostylatus sp. nov e Chromatonotus sinopensis sp. nov. Ilustrações sobre a forma e coloração, modificação tergal no abdome, placas genitais e peças da genitália do macho são apresentadas.
Echinodermata da Praia do Cabo Branco, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil
Authors: Gondim Anne Isabelley , Lacouth Patrícia , Alonso Carmen , Manso Cynthia Lara de Castro
Published: August 2008

Este estudo retrata a fauna de equinodermos encontrada na Praia do Cabo Branco, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil. Esta praia é formada por um terraço de abrasão marinha do tipo arenito-ferruginoso e está localizada no ponto mais oriental das Américas. Foram identificadas 32 espécies de equinodermos pertencentes a quatro classes (Asteroidea, Ophiuroidea, Echinoidea e Holothuroidea), distribuídas em 18 famílias e 24 gêneros. O número de táxons identificados corresponde a 9,7% das espécies registradas para o litoral Brasileiro e mostra a significativa diversidade das espécies de Echinodermata encontrada nesta área. A classe Ophiuroidea foi a mais diversa com 13 espécies, seguida por Holothuroidea (10 spp.), Asteroidea (5 spp.) e Echinoidea (4 spp). Do total de espécies registradas, as seguintes são novas ocorrências para o litoral do Estado da Paraíba: Ophiocnida scabriuscula, Ophiomyxa flaccida, Ophiactis lymani, Ophionereis reticulata, Ophioderma januarii, Ophiophragmus brachyatis, Thyone cognita, T. suspecta, Ocnus suspectus, Phyllophorus occidentalis, P. communis, Lissothuria sp. Holothuria grisea, H. arenicola, Chiridota rotifera, Synaptula hydriformis, Echinaster nudus, Linckia guildingii, Lytechinus variegatus, Mellita quinquiesperforata e Leodia sexiesperforata.
Parasitismo por Mermithidae (Nematoda) em larvas do gênero Chironomus gr. decorus (Diptera: Chironomidae) no Rio dos Peixes, Dois Córregos, SP, Brasil
Authors: Silva Fabio Laurindo da , Ruiz Sonia Silveira , Moreira Diana Calcidoni , Bochini Gabriel Lucas
Published: August 2008

Registramos a incidência de parasitismo por vermes Mermithidae em larvas de Chironomus gr. decorus (Diptera: Chironomidae), no Rio dos Peixes, Dois Córregos, região centro-oeste do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Neste estudo, de um total de 791 larvas amostradas, 205 (25,9%) estavam infectadas por mermitídeos, indicando que larvas de Chironomidae são comumente parasitadas por vermes mermitídeos.
Registros de perdiz Rhynchotus rufescens (Aves, Tinamiformes, Tinamidae) no interior da Reserva Natural Vale, Linhares, Espírito Santo, sudeste do Brasil
Authors: Srbek-Araujo Ana Carolina , Chiarello Adriano Garcia
Published: August 2008

A presente comunicação reporta observações de perdiz (Rhynchotus rufescens) efetuadas no interior da área florestada da Reserva Natural da Vale (RNV). A Reserva apresenta grande extensão (21.787 ha) e é coberta predominantemente por florestas primárias. Seis registros foram obtidos no período de 2005 a 2007, em locais distantes entre 70 e 5.500 m da borda florestal mais próxima, indicando que esta espécie de Cerrado está utilizando partes internas e florestadas da Reserva. Observações anteriores e relatos de outros autores já haviam confirmado a presença da perdiz em áreas abertas adjacentes à RNV e à Reserva Biológica de Sooretama, que é contígua à anterior, mas esta é a primeira vez em que a presença desta ave campestre é relatada para o interior da floresta. Os impactos potenciais que a entrada da perdiz representa para as espécies nativas e florestais de tinamídeos, como a contaminação por parasitas e patógenos e a introdução de capim exótico, são brevemente discutidos.
Cell wall biochemistry of sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) submitted to 1-methylcyclopropene
Authors: Morais Patrícia L.D. , Miranda Maria R.A. , Lima Luis C.O. , Alves José D. , Alves Ricardo E. , Silva José D.
Published: August 2008

Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) is a climacteric fruit that ripens shortly after harvest. Studies on its conservation during storage have been mainly restricted to using low temperatures and modified atmospheres. In this study we investigated the influence of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on the physiological and biochemical changes that sapodilla cell wall undergoes during ripening and evaluated its potential to preserve sapodilla fruits at postharvest. Fruits were treated with ethylene antagonist 1-MCP at 300 nL L-1 for 12 h and then stored under a modified atmosphere at 25ºC for 23 d. 1-MCP significantly delayed softening of sapodilla for 11 d as a consequence of inhibition of cell wall degrading enzyme activities, and thus 1-MCP-treated fruit exhibited a less extensive solubilization of polyuronides, hemicellulose and of free neutral sugar when compared to control fruit. Results suggest that delayed softening of sapodilla is largely dependent on ethylene production and perception.
Physiological and biochemical changes occurring in dwarf-cashew seedlings subjected to salt stress
Authors: Abreu Carlos E.B. de , Prisco José T. , Nogueira Ana R.C. , Bezerra Marlos A. , Lacerda Claudivan F. de , Gomes-Filho Enéas
Published: August 2008

The effects of salt stress on some physiological and biochemical traits were evaluated in dwarf-cashew seedlings at the same developmental stage. Seeds were sown in trays containing vermiculite moistened with distilled water or with NaCl solutions having different electrical conductivities: 0.7, 1.8, 6.0, 9.8, 13.4, 17.4 and 20.6 dS m-1. Salinity delayed and inhibited seedling growth and development, particularly in the shoot. Concentrations of Na+ and Cl-, but not of K+, increased with increasing stress severity. With the exception of proline, concentration of organic solutes was only marginally affected by salt stress. Catalase activity in leaves increased slightly as a result of salt stress, whereas guaiacol peroxidase activity was induced only under low levels of salt. In contrast, activities of guaiacol peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase increased dramatically in roots. Apparently, roots were better protected against oxidative damage than shoots, as judged from the decrease in lipid peroxidation in root tissues. In leaves, expression of 75 proteins, evaluated by 2D electrophoresis, was altered by salt stress: 35 of them increased their expression and three were apparently de novo synthesized. In roots, 69 proteins were modified by salt stress: 34 proteins increased their expression and two proteins appeared only in stressed seedlings. The changes in protein patterns were caused by the imposed salt stress rather than by a response to the developmental stage. Overall, these responses could play an important role in salt stress acclimation of cashew seedlings.