bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnic Variation in Adiponectin and Leptin Levels and Their Association With Adiposity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Mente Andrew , Razak Fahad , Blankenberg Stefan , Vuksan Vlad , Davis A. Darlene , Miller Ruby , Teo Koon , Gerstein Hertzel , Sharma Arya M. , Yusuf Salim , Anand Sonia S. ,   for the Study of Health Assessment and Risk Evaluation (SHARE) and SHARE in Aboriginal Peoples (SHARE-AP) Investigators
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

To investigate ethnic differences in adiponectin and leptin concentration and to determine whether these adipokines and a high–glycemic index diet account for ethnic variation in insulin resistance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In 1,176 South Asian, Chinese, Aboriginal, and European Canadians, fasting blood samples were drawn, and clinical history and dietary habits including glycemic index/glycemic load were recorded using standardized questionnaires. Insulin resistance was defined using homeostasis model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

RESULTS

Adiponectin concentrations were significantly higher in Europeans (adjusted mean 12.94 [95% CI 2.27–13.64]) and Aboriginal people (11.87 [11.19–12.59]) than in South Asians (9.35 [8.82–9.92]) and Chinese (8.52 [8.03–9.03]) (overall P < 0.001). Serum leptin was significantly higher in South Asians (11.82 [10.72–13.04]) and Aboriginal people (11.13 [10.13–12.23]) than in Europeans (9.21 [8.38–10.12]) and Chinese (8.25 [7.48–9.10]). BMI and waist circumference were inversely associated with adiponectin in every group except the South Asians (P < 0.001 for interaction). Adiponectin was inversely and leptin was positively associated with HOMA-IR (P < 0.001). The increase in HOMA-IR for each given decrease in adiponectin was larger among South Asians (P = 0.01) and Aboriginal people (P < 0.001) than among Europeans. A high glycemic index was associated with a larger decrease in adiponectin among South Asians (P = 0.03) and Aboriginal people (P < 0.001) and a larger increase in HOMA-IR among South Asians (P < 0.05) relative to that in other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

South Asians have the least favorable adipokine profile and, like the Aboriginal people, display a greater increase in insulin resistance with decreasing levels of adiponectin. Differences in adipokines and responses to glycemic foods parallel the ethnic differences in insulin resistance.
Leisure-Time Physical Activity and the Metabolic Syndrome in the Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study
Authors: Ilanne-Parikka Pirjo , Laaksonen David E. , Eriksson Johan G. , Lakka Timo A. , Lindstr Jaanaöm , Peltonen Markku , Aunola Sirkka , Keinánen-Kiukaanniemi Sirkka , Uusitupa Matti , Tuomilehto Jaakko
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and resistance training on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in a post hoc analysis of the Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study, a randomized controlled lifestyle counseling trial.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cohort of 486 middle-aged overweight men and women with impaired glucose tolerance were followed for an average of 4.1 years. The intervention and control groups were combined in the analyses. LTPA was assessed by questionnaires, dietary intake by food records, and features of the MetS by anthropometric and biochemical measures annually. Resistance training sessions were documented for 137 participants.

RESULTS

Increased moderate-to-vigorous LTPA, even after adjustments for changes in dietary intakes of total and saturated fat, fiber, and energy, and change in BMI was associated with a greater likelihood for resolution (29.7 vs. 19.1%; P = 0.004 in the upper versus lower third of change) and a lesser likelihood for development (23.5 vs. 44.7%; P = 0.041) of the MetS. Of the components of the MetS, the increase in moderate-to-vigorous LTPA was associated most strongly with improvement of glycemia. Among the 137 participants who participated in resistance training, MetS components were favorable in individuals who were in the upper third of participation rate (median 51 times/year) compared with individuals in the lowest third (median 8.5 times/year).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased moderate-to-vigorous LTPA was associated with a decreased likelihood of developing the MetS and an increased likelihood of its resolution in individuals at high risk for type 2 diabetes.
A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial on Benfotiamine Treatment in Patients With Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Alkhalaf Alaa , Klooster Astrid , van Oeveren Willem , Achenbach Ulrike , Kleefstra Nanne , Slingerland Robbert J. , Mijnhout G. Sophie , Bilo Henk J.G. , Gans Reinold O.B. , Navis Gerjan J. , Bakker Stephan J.L.
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of benfotiamine on urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and the tubular damage marker kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) in patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients with type 2 diabetes and UAE equivalent to 15–300 mg/24 h, despite ACE inhibitors (ACE-Is) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of benfotiamine (900 mg/day) (n = 39) or placebo (n = 43).

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, benfotiamine treatment resulted in significant improvement of thiamine status (P < 0.001). Benfotiamine treatment did not significantly decrease 24-h UAE or 24-h KIM-1 excretion.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy, high-dose benfotiamine treatment for 12 weeks in addition to ACE-Is or ARBs did not reduce UAE or KIM-1 excretion, despite improvement of thiamine status.
Prevalence and Determinant Factors of Sarcopenia in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kim Tae Nyun , Park Man Sik , Yang Sae Jeong , Yoo Hye Jin , Kang Hyun Joo , Song Wook , Seo Ji A. , Kim Sin Gon , Kim Nan Hee , Baik Sei Hyun , Choi Dong Seop , Choi Kyung Mook
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

We examined prevalence of sarcopenia in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes and compared body compositional parameters between subjects with and without type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The Korean Sarcopenic Obesity Study (KSOS) included 810 subjects (414 patients with diabetes and 396 control subjects) who were examined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Prevalence of sarcopenia was defined using the skeletal muscle index (SMI).

RESULTS

Prevalence in patients with diabetes and in the control group was 15.7 and 6.9%, respectively. In both men and women, SMI values were significantly decreased in patients with diabetes compared with subjects without diabetes. Furthermore, multiple logistic regression analysis showed that type 2 diabetes was independently associated with sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 diabetes was associated with increased risk of sarcopenia. These characteristics may contribute to physical disability and metabolic disorders in older adults with diabetes.
Infliximab for Diabetic Macular Edema Refractory to Laser Photocoagulation
Authors: Sfikakis Petros P. , Grigoropoulos Vlassis , Emfietzoglou Ioannis , Theodossiadis George , Tentolouris Nicholas , Delicha Evi , Katsiari Christina , Alexiadou Kleopatra , Hatziagelaki Erifili , Theodossiadis Panayiotis G.
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

Because many patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) do not respond to focal/grid laser photocoagulation, the only currently approved treatment, alternatives are needed. Based on encouraging preliminary findings, we aimed to assess efficacy and safety of the anti–tumor necrosis factor (TNF) monoclonal antibody infliximab in this condition.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Eleven patients with sight-threatening DME persisting after two sessions of laser photocoagulation received infliximab (5 mg/kg) intravenously at weeks 0, 2, 6, and 14, followed by placebo at weeks 16, 18, 22, and 30, or vice versa. Blinding was maintained to week 32, when the final assessments were performed. Best corrected visual acuity evaluated by a mixed-models approach for imbalanced crossover design using the percentage difference as the outcome variable was the primary study end point. Data were analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis.

RESULTS

Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) scores dropped from 31.6 ± 5.1 (mean ± SD) letters read at baseline to 28.8 ± 11.6 letters read at week 16 in six placebo-treated eyes and improved to 35.4 ± 11.2 letters read after infliximab. In contrast, visual acuity improved from 23.5 ± 10.3 at baseline to 30.4 ± 13.4 letters read at week 16 in eight infliximab-treated eyes and was sustained at completion of placebo treatment (31.4 ± 12.1 letters read). The excess visual acuity in infliximab-treated eyes was greater by 24.3% compared with that in placebo-treated eyes (95% CI 4.8–43.7; P = 0.017). Infliximab treatment was well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

The positive results of this small phase III study suggest that larger and longer term trials should be conducted to assess the efficacy of systemic or intravitreal anti-TNF agent administration for primary treatment of DME.
Midfoot and Hindfoot Bone Marrow Edema Identified By Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Feet of Subjects With Diabetes and Neuropathic Ulceration Is Common but of Unknown Clinical Significance
Authors: Thorning Chandani , Gedroyc Wladyslaw M.W. , Tyler Philippa A. , Dick Elizabeth A. , Hui Elaine , Valabhji Jonathan
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a retrospective cohort study assessing the prevalence and clinical and radiological outcome of remote areas of bone marrow edema on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the feet of subjects with diabetes and neuropathic foot ulceration.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

MRIs performed over 6 years looking for osteomyelitis associated with neuropathic lesions were assessed for remote areas of signal change.

RESULTS

Seventy MRI studies were assessed. Remote areas of signal change were present in 21 (30%) subjects, involved midfoot or hindfoot in 20 subjects, were associated with younger age and renal replacement therapy, and did not predict future Charcot neuroarthropathy or infection at that site. Repeat MRIs in 11 subjects with such areas found that none had progressed, six had improved, and two had resolved; in 29 subjects without such areas, five had developed new areas.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone marrow edema in the midfoot and hindfoot of subjects with diabetes and neuropathic lesions is common, often transient, and of unknown significance.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Metabolic Syndrome in Older Men and Women
Authors: Hassinen Maija , Lakka Timo A. , Hakola Leena , Savonen Kai , Komulainen Pirjo , Litmanen Hannu , Kiviniemi Vesa , Kouki Reija , Heikkilá Harri , Rauramaa Rainer
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

We studied the association of maximum oxygen uptake (Vo2max) with the development and resolution of metabolic syndrome (MetS) for 2 years in older individuals.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Subjects were a population sample of 1,226 men and women aged 57–78 years. We assessed Vo2max directly by respiratory gas analysis during maximum exercise testing and used dichotomous and continuous variables for MetS.

RESULTS

One SD increase in baseline Vo2max associated with 44% (95% CI 24–58) decreased risk of developing MetS. Individuals in the highest third of baseline Vo2max were 68% (37–84) less likely to develop MetS than those in the lowest third. One SD increase in Vo2max increased the likelihood to resolve MetS 1.8 (1.2–2.8) times. Individuals in the highest Vo2max third were 3.9 (1.5–9.9) times more likely to resolve MetS than those in the lowest third.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness protect against MetS and may resolve it in older individuals.
Pericardial Adipose Tissue, Atherosclerosis, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors
Authors: Liu Jiankang , Fox Caroline S. , Hickson DeMarc , Sarpong Daniel , Ekunwe Lynette , May Warren D. , Hundley Gregory W. , Carr J. Jeffery , Taylor Herman A.
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE

Pericardial adipose tissue (PAT), a regional fat depot that surrounds the heart, is associated with an unfavorable cardiometabolic risk factor profile. The associations among PAT, cardiometabolic risk factors, and coronary artery calcification (CAC) and abdominal aortic artery calcification (AAC) in African American populations have not been explored.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 1,414 African Americans (35% men; mean ± SD age 58 ± 11 years) drawn from the Jackson Heart Study (JHS) underwent multidetector computed tomography assessment of abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and PAT between 2007 and 2009. Cardiometabolic risk factors, CAC, and AAC were examined in relation to increments of PAT and VAT.

RESULTS

PAT was significantly correlated with BMI, waist circumference, and VAT (r = 0.35, 0.46, and 0.69; all P < 0.0001). PAT (per 1-SD increase) was associated with elevated levels of systolic blood pressure (P < 0.04), fasting glucose, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein and lower levels of HDL (all P values<0.0001). PAT was also associated with metabolic syndrome (odds ratio [OR] 1.89; P < 0.0001), hypertension (1.48; P < 0.0006), and diabetes (1.40; P < 0.04); all associations were diminished after further adjustment for VAT (most P > 0.05). However, the association of PAT with CAC but not with AAC remained significant (OR 1.34 [95% CI 1.10–1.64]; P < 0.004) after multivariable and VAT adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

PAT is significantly correlated with most cardiometabolic risk factors and CAC in the JHS cohort. The results suggest that PAT is an important VAT depot that may exert a local effect on the coronary vasculature.
Implementation of Measurement Instruments in Physical Therapist Practice: Development of a Tailored Strategy
Authors: Stevens J.G. Anita , Beurskens Anna J.M.H.
Published: April 2010

Background and Purpose

The use of measurement instruments has become a major issue in physical therapy, but their use in daily practice is infrequent. The aims of this case report were to develop and evaluate a plan for the systematic implementation of 2 measurement instruments frequently recommended in Dutch physical therapy clinical guidelines: the Patient-Specific Complaints instrument and the Six-Minute Walk Test.

Case Description

A systematic implementation plan was used, starting with a problem analysis of aspects of physical therapist practice. A literary search, structured interviews, and sounding board meetings were used to identify barriers and facilitators. Based on these factors, various strategies were developed through the use of a planning model for the process of change.

Outcomes

Barriers and facilitators were revealed in various domains: physical therapists' competence and attitude (knowledge and resistance to change), organization (policy), patients (different expectations), and measurement instruments (feasibility). The strategies developed were adjustment of the measurement instruments, a self-analysis list, and an education module. Pilot testing and evaluation of the implementation plan were undertaken. The strategies developed were applicable to physical therapist practice. Self-analysis, education, and attention to the practice organization made the physical therapists aware of their actual behavior, increased their knowledge, and improved their attitudes toward and their use of measurement instruments.

Discussion

The use of a planning model made it possible to tailor multifaceted strategies toward various domains and phases of behavioral change. The strategies will be further developed in programs of the Royal Dutch Society for Physical Therapy. Future studies should examine the use of measurement instruments as an integrated part of the process of clinical reasoning. The focus of future studies should be directed not only toward physical therapists but also toward the practice organization and professional associations.
Critical Appraisal of Clinical Prediction Rules That Aim to Optimize Treatment Selection for Musculoskeletal Conditions
Authors: Stanton Tasha R. , Hancock Mark J. , Maher Christopher G. , Koes Bart W.
Published: April 2010

Background

Clinical prediction rules (CPRs) for treatment selection in musculoskeletal conditions have become increasingly popular.

Purpose

The purposes of this review are: (1) to critically appraise studies evaluating CPRs and (2) to consider the clinical utility and stage of development of each CPR.

Data Sources

Pertinent databases were searched up to April 2009. Studies aiming to develop or evaluate a CPR for treatment response in musculoskeletal conditions were included. Two independent reviewers assessed eligibility and extracted methodological data, stage of development, and effect size information.

Study Selection/Data Extraction and Synthesis

Eighteen studies, evaluating 15 separate CPRs, were included. Fourteen CPRs were at the derivation stage, and all CPRs had been evaluated using a single-arm trial design, thus it is not possible to determine whether the CPRs identify prognosis (regardless of treatment) or specifically response to treatment. The CPR at the validation stage investigated spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) for low back pain and had been evaluated in 2 separate well-conducted randomized controlled trials. The first trial demonstrated a clinically meaningful effect of the SMT CPR; the additional effect from SMT in patients “positive-on-the-rule” was 15 Oswestry disability units at week 1 and 9 units at week 4. The second trial showed that the CPR did not generalize to a different clinical setting, including a modified treatment.

Limitations

Due to differences in methods of reporting and journal publication restraints (eg, word count restrictions), some quality assessment items may have been completed in the included studies, but not captured in this review.

Conclusions

There is, at present, little evidence that CPRs can be used to predict effects of treatment for musculoskeletal conditions. The principal problem is that most studies use designs that cannot differentiate between predictors of response to treatment and general predictors of outcome. Only 1 CPR has been evaluated within an RCT designed to predict response to treatment. Validation of these rules is imperative to allow clinical application.
Changes in the Temperature Profile of Farmers Stock Peanuts During Storage
Authors: Smith J. S. , Davidson J. I. , Sanders T. H. , Lansden J. A. , Cole R. J.
Published: April 2010

Thermocouples were positioned at similar locations in the peanut mass in two typical flat-type-metal building peanut warehouses, one mechanically ventilated and the other naturally ventilated. Temperatures were recorded 12 times daily for each location during a 9-month storage period. Temperature profiles were constructed for selected times throughout storage. Generally, the isotherms composing the profiles were similarly shaped for like periods. The mechanically ventilated warehouse maintained a mean temperature of 1 to 4 C less than the naturally ventilated warehouse throughout most of the storage period.
Effect of Irrigation Regimes on Aflatoxin Contamination of Peanut Pods1
Authors: Wilson David M. , Stansell James R.
Published: April 2010

Florunner and Florigiant peanuts were grown and foliar inoculated with an aflatoxin producing isolate of Aspergillus parasiticus (NRRL 2999) 30 days after planting. Four replicates were grown in plots under rainfall controlled shelters with six irrigation treatments: (1) wet from day 0-145, (2) dry from days 36-70, (3) dry from days 71-105, (4) dry from days 106-145, (5) dry from days 36-105, (6) dry from days 71-145. Aflatoxin concentrations from Florunner peanuts were significantly different between treatments (P = 0.01) in 1974 and 1976 but not in 1975 or 1977. In 1974 and 1976, sound mature kernels of Florunner from treatments 4 and 6 contained significantly more aflatoxin when compared to other treatments. Aflatoxin contamination of Florigiant sound mature kernels from treatments 4 and 6 in 1975 and treatment 6 in 1974 was significantly greater (P = 0.01) than other treatments, but not in 1977. No data were taken in 1976 for Florigiant peanuts. Water stress during the last 40 to 75 days of the season contributed to aflatoxin contamination of sound mature kernels three of the four years on one or both cultivars. Because of year to year variation, drought stress alone does not consistently affect field aflatoxin contamination. In some years other environmental factors must have interacted with drought stress to promote or inhibit preharvest aflatoxin contamination. However, in all treatments where irrigation was applied during the last 40 days of the season, no significant aflatoxin contamination was detected in any cultivar any year of the test.
Photoperiodic Response of Peanut Species1
Authors: Stalker H. T. , Wynne J. C.
Published: April 2010

Many Arachis species collections do not produce pegs in North Carolina even though they flower profusely. To investigate reasons for the failure of fruiting, nine wild peanut species of section Arachis and three A. hypogaea cultivars representing spanish, valencia and virginia types were evaluated for response to short and long-day treatments in the North Carolina State Phytotron Unit of the Southeastern Environmental Laboratories. The objective of this investigation was to determine the flowering and fruiting responses of Arachis species to short and long-day photoperiods. Plant collections grown under a 9-hour short-day treatment were generally less vigorous, but produced more pegs than corresponding plants grown in long-day treatments which were produced by 9 hours of light plus a 3-hour interruption of the dark period. Annual species produced significantly more flowers and pegs than perennial species during both long and short days. The total number of flowers produced ranged from 0 during short days for A. correntina to more than 300 for A. cardenasii in long-day treatments. Only one plant of each species A. chacoense and A. villosa, and no plants of A. correntina, flowered in short days. Total numbers of pegs produced in short-day treatments were generally greater than in long-day treatments and the ratio of total number of pegs/total number of flowers was consistently greater during short-day treatments. A general trend was observed for more flowers produced in long-day treatments, but more pegs produced in short days. This study indicated that photoperiod can be manipulated to increase the seed set of some species and the success rate of obtaining certain interspecific hybrids. Furthermore, introgression from wild to cultivated species may possibly alter the reproductive capacity of A. hypogaea to photoperiod.
Comparisons of On-Farm Peanut Drying Systems in the Southwest1
Authors: Bloome P. D. , Kletke D. D. , Sholar J. R.
Published: April 2010

The economic and management characteristics of five types of on-farm peanut drying systems were compared. Costs were determined as average present value costs per tonne using a 15-year planning horizon. The systems compared and their average present values of net, after tax, cash outflows were: high capacity, heated air drying - $16.50/tonne; low temperature, controlled humidity drying - $23.07/tonne; fan-powered, natural air drying - $20.88/tonne; wind-powered, natural air drying in field modules - $22.15/tonne; and sack drying in the field - $28.60/tonne. Costs for the wind-powered, field module system were reduced to $18.00/tonne by Federal Energy Tax Credits (15%) and further reduced to $9.70/tonne by Oklahoma Energy Tax Credits (30%). Management comparisons included flexibility, drying capacity with respect to weather conditions, seed quality, risks of mold development and possibilities for multiple use.
Agronomic Potential of Six Cylindrocladium Black Rot Resistant Peanut Lines1
Authors: Coffelt T. A.
Published: April 2010

Six Cylindrocladium black rot (CBR) resistant peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) lines (Spancross, Tamnut 74, NC 3033, VGP 1, GA 722105, and Toalson) and one susceptible line (Florigiant) were evaluated in field experiments for agronomic potential. All experiments (one each in 1976 and 1977 and two in 1978) were located in fields (sites) where CBR had previously occurred. The percentage of CBR symptomatic plants, yield per hectare, and market grade were measured at each site. In addition, the percentage of damaged roots and a visual rating of pod damage were determined at three sites (one in 1977 and two in 1978). Florigiant had a significantly higher yield and percentage of CBR symptomatic plants than the six CBR resistant lines. No significant differences occurred among the six resistant lines for percentage of CBR symptomatic plants. VGP 1 and GA 722105 had significantly lower yields than the other four resistant lines. These results indicate the low agronomic potential of the resistant lines.
Evaluation of Trichoderma spp., Fungicides, and Chemical Combinations for Control of Southern Stem Rot on Peanuts1
Authors: Csinos A. S. , Bell D. K. , Minton N. A. , Wells H. D.
Published: April 2010

Field experiments evaluating three isolates of Trichoderma harzianum Rifai and a white spored Trichoderma sp. alone and in combination with fungicides and fungicide-insecticide/nematicide combinations were conducted during 1979-81 in an area with a history of high incidence of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. None of the Trichoderma sp. treatments alone, mixed with wheat middlings, or combined with carboxin reduced disease or increased yield over the control; however, disease was reduced when T. harzianum was applied with PCNB at 11.2 kg/ha. Trichoderma spp. appeared to be active only over a 3-8 day period, which was inadequate for control of S. rolfsii for the entire season. Treatments containing PCNB (11.2 kg ai/ha) alone or with the insecticide/ nematicides ethoprop (3.4 kg ai/ha), fensulfothion (3.4 kg ai/ha), and aldicarb (1.7 kg ai/ha) significantly increased yields 9 of 12 times with an average increase of 790 kg/ha; and significantly reduced disease loci at harvest 5 of 12 times with an average reduction of 36%. Ethoprop 10G alone at 3.4 kg ai/ha increased yield one of 3 times, but did not reduce disease. Aldicarb and phenamiphos alone did not decrease disease or increase yield. Carboxin 4G decreased disease and increased yield only when applied at 1.12 kg ai/ha six times on an as required basis. Carboxin 3F at 0.84 kg ai/ha applied 6 times and carboxin 75W at 1.27 kg ai/ha applied one time did not increase yield or reduce disease at harvest.
Relationships Among Water Potential Components, Relative Water Content, and Stomatal Resistance of Field-Grown Peanut Leaves1
Authors: Bennett J. M. , Boote K. J. , Hammond L. C.
Published: April 2010

Limited data exist describing the physiological responses of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) plants to tissue water deficits. Detailed field experiments which accurately define the water status of both the plant and soil are required to better understand the effects of water stress on a peanut crop. The objectives of the present study were 1) to describe the changes in leaf water potential components during a drying cycle, and 2) to define the relationships among soil water content, leaf water potential, leaf turgor potential, relative water content, leaf-air temperature differential, and leaf diffusive resistance as water stress was imposed on a peanut crop.

During a 28-day drying period where both rainfall and irrigation were withheld from peanut plants, midday measurements of the physiological parameters and volumetric soil water contents were taken concurrently. As soil drying progressed, water extraction from the upper soil depths was limited as soil moisture approached 0.04 m3m-3. Leaf water potentials and leaf turgor potentials of nonirrigated plants decreased to approximately −2.0 and 0 MPa, respectively, by the end of the experimental period. Leaf water potentials declined only gradually as the average volumetric soil water content in the upper 90 cm of soil decreased from 0.12 to 0.04 m3m-3. Further reductions in soil water content caused large reductions in leaf water potential.

As volumetric soil moisture content decreased slightly below 0.04 m3m-3 in the upper 90 cm, leaf relative water content dropped to 86%, leaf water potential approached −1.6 MPa and leaf turgor potential decreased to 0 MPa. Concurrently, stomatal closure resulted and leaf temperature increased above air temperature. Osmotic potentials measured at 100% relative water content were similar for irrigated and nonirrigated plants, suggesting little or no osmotic regulation.
Volatile “Fingerprint” Profile of Raw Peanuts as an Indicator of Quality
Authors: Angelo Allen J. St , Lovegren Norman V. , Vinnett Carolyn H.
Published: April 2010

The 1980 peanut crop suffered severe losses because of the drought in the United States, and in many cases, the peanuts that were harvested had off-flavors. Peanuts were imported from several foreign countries to offset crop losses. Many raw samples, both imported and US-grown, were examined by direct gas chromatography fingerprint method and by sensory techniques for flavor quality. The volatile profiles obtained were used as an indicator of quality. Based on the volatile profiles from numerous raw peanut samples examined, indicators of suspect peanuts were found that could provide a means of dividing the peanuts into several different groups, e.g. peanuts that had possibly undergone fermentation, oxidation, or external contamination. The volatile profiles of each of these groups and several high grade controls were correlated to peanut quality. In general, as the volatile profile increased, the quality decreased.
In Vitro Differentiation of a Wild Peanut, Arachis villosulicarpa Hoehne1,,2
Authors: Pittman R. N. , Johnson B. B. , Banks D. J.
Published: April 2010

Immature leaflets 3 to 5 mm in length from Arachis villosulicarpa Hoehne seedlings were cultured in vitro on a medium consisting of the major and minor salts of Murashige and Skoog (MS), Gamborg's B5 vitamins, 20 g/L sucrose, 0.8% Difco agar, 4.44 μM N-6 benzyladenine (BA) and 5.37 μM napthaleneacetic acid (NAA). Hard callus with many shoot primordia formed on all leaflets within 4 to 6 weeks. Calli with primordia were further cultured for plant formation on 150 other media (MS major salts at 1/2 or 1/4 strength, full strength minor salts and vitamins, sucrose at 5 or 10 g/L, BA and NAA at 0 to 8 μM). Reduced concentrations of major salts with a high ratio of BA to NAA enhanced the formation of shoot primordia. Roots differentiated on media with 1/4 strength major salts, no BA, and 6 to 8 μM NAA and 5 g/L sucrose. Shoots differentiated from the branch points of roots after 2 to 4 months of culture. Plants were obtained via shoot primordia from callus and from the adventitious shoots from roots.
Heterosis of Apparent Photosynthesis Rate in Arachis hypogaea L.1
Authors: Branch W. D. , Pallas J. E.
Published: April 2010

Complete diallel crosses were made among three parental peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes to gain a better understanding of photosynthetic inheritance. Highly controlled environmental conditions were used throughout the study to determine apparent photosynthetic rates. Results indicated significant differences among parents and F1 hybrids. Reciprocal differences were also observed between certain cross combinations. Dominance and overdominance effects were found under these test regimes which suggest a heterotic response for this important characteristic.
Character Association Among Vegetative and Reproductive Traits in Advanced Generation of Intersubspecific and Intrasubspecific Crosses in Peanut1
Authors: Nigan S. N. , Dwivedi S. L. , Sigamani T. S. N. , Gibbons R. W.
Published: April 2010

Character association studies among various vegetative and reproductive trains in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) are important, because of the subterranean nature of pod development. Ninety-seven advanced generation selections derived from intersubspecific and intrasubspecific crosses were grown under high and low fertility environments for two years at ICRISAT to study the association among sixteen vegetative and reproductive traits. Only weight per mature seed with most of the vegetative traits and mature pods per plant, mature pod weight, mature seed per plant, and mature seed weight with height of the main axis and nodes with pegs showed significant positive association. Reproductive traits were significantly and positively associated among themselves. Correlation and path coefficient analyses further revealed that selection for increased mature seed yield per plant would be possible by selecting the component characters such as mature pods per plant, mature pod weight, and mature seeds per plant individually or in combination.
A Rapid Colormetric Test for Alcohol and Aldehyde Concentrations in Peanuts1
Authors: Pattee Harold E.
Published: April 2010

The acidic potassium dichromate-silver nitrate reagent has been evaluated as a rapid colormetric test for alcohol and aldehyde concentrations in peanuts. Increased levels of alcohols and aldehydes have previously been related to off-flavor in peanuts. The acidic potassium dichromate-silver nitrate color-metric test was found to give a linear response for peanut samples which had been spiked with known ethanol concentrations between 10 and 100 nL/g. Peanut samples (200 g) may be assayed in seven minutes thus the method is applicable to the rapid analysis of large numbers of samples. Forty-four samples from commercial lots of peanuts were analyzed and 20 samples were determined to have above background concentrations of alcohols and aldehydes. Aroma response analysis and subsequent statistical analysis showed a curvilinear relationship between alcohol-aldehyde concentrations and aroma response and thus confirms the previously published reports on the alcohol-off-flavor relationship. The application of this method to quality control in peanut samples could be of significant value in improving the quality of peanuts being marketed and thus those being processed into consumer products.
Peanut Web Blotch: I. Cultural Characteristics and Identity of Causal Fungus1
Authors: Taber R. A. , Pettit R. E. , Philley G. L.
Published: April 2010

A foliar disease of peanuts, previously unreported in the USA, was found in Texas in 1972. The pathogen was identified as a species of Ascochyta. Further cultural studies have revealed this fungus to be Phoma arachidicola Marasas, Pauer, and Boerema. Pycnidia form profusely at 20 C and 25 C. Pycnidiospores are borne on short pycnidiosphores and are predominantly one-celled in culture. Spores produced in pycnidia on infected leaflets become 1 septate. Large 1-septate spores, as well as an occasional 2-septate spore, may form in culture. Optimum temperature for mycelial growth in 20 C; little or no growth occurs at 5 C or above 30 C. The teleomorphic state develops in the field on fallen leaflets and can be induced to form in the laboratory on sterilized peanut leaflets between 15 and 20 C. Cultures derived from single ascospores form pseudothecia. Pycnidiospores, ascospores, and chlamydospores are all infective units. Because this fungus produces hyaline ascospores and pseudoparaphyses, it has been transferred to the genus Didymella as Didymella arachidicola (Choch.) comb. nov. Comparisons with 15 isolates causing web blotch of peanut in the USA, Argentina, and South Africa indicate that web blotch symptoms are produced by the same fungal species.
Performance of Atesta and Intact Peanut Seed in Field Plots, Field Microplots, Germination and Pathogenicity Tests1
Authors: Bell D. K.
Published: April 2010

Stands from atesta (bald) seed 10 and 20 days after planting were 32.0 and 35.5% less than stands from intact seed in field plots. Thirty-two and 62 days after planting the fresh weights of plants from bald seed were 32.3 and 15.3% less than those from intact seed. Pod yield of plants from bald seed was 20.4% less than that from intact seed. Sound mature kernels (SMK) produced by plants from bald seed was 1.2% less than the SMK from intact seed. When plant populations in field plots were adjusted by covariance analysis to equal numbers, no difference in yield was predicted. Plants grown from bald and intact seed in field microplots fumigated with metam-sodium had no difference in yield or SMK. Bald seed germinated in 24 hr cycles of 20 C/16 hr + 30 C/8 hr had fewer normal rapid and more normal slow germinating seedlings than intact seed. At temperatures of 30 C/16 hr + 20 C/8 hr, there was no difference in germination percentages. In soil infested with Aspergillus niger van Tieghem at 21 C/12 hr + 27 C/12 hr there was no difference in seedling emergence from bald or intact seed after 22 days. At temperatures of 15 C/12 hr + 21 C/12 hr, seedling emergence from bald seed in A. niger infested and noninfested soil was less than that of intact seed in control soil. Emergence of seedlings from bald seed was zero and that from intact seed was less than other treatments at both temperature regimes in soil infested with Rhizoctonia solani Kühn anastomosis group 4.
Activity of Tolclofos - Methyl (Rizolex) on Sclerotium rolfsii and Rhizoctonia solani in Peanut1
Authors: Csinos A. S.
Published: April 2010

Tolclofos-methyl was compared to PCNB in vitro to determine its relative activity against four isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. and two isolates of Rhizoctonia solani Kuehn. Concentrations of 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1.0 and 10 μg/mL of each of the fungicides were used to evaluate their effects on radial growth on both S. rolfsii and R. solani and their effects on sclerotia formation and sclerotial germination of S. rolfsii. Little difference in efficacy between the fungicides occurred for S. rolfsii. However, tolclofos-methyl reduced radial growth of R. solani more than PCNB at concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0 μg/mL. In field tests in 1982 and 1984 tolclofos-methyl at 5.6 kg ai/ha or less was as effective or superior to PCNB or PCNB-fensulfothion in reducing incidence of southern stem rot and increasing yield. In 1984, tolclofos-methyl at 8.4 kg ai/ha reduced Rhizotonia limb rot damage over the control, but PCNB at 11.2 kg ai/ha did not.
Agronomic Performance of a Spanish and Runner Cultivar Harvested at Six Different Digging Intervals1
Authors: Mixon A. C. , Branch W. D.
Published: April 2010

In a three year study (1980–1982) at the Georgia Coastal Plain Experiment Station, Tifton, Georgia, the full-season Florunner and the short-season Pronto cultivars were harvested at six 10-day intervals beginning 90 days after planting. For the 3-year average, peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) plants from Florunner harvested at 110 and each succeeding 10-day growth period up to 140 days produced greater pod yields, sound-mature kernels, large and jumbo seed, and greater calculated market value than Pronto. However, seed market grade components and maturity indexes reflecting quality and maturity were impaired when peanuts were dug too early and varied among years and growth periods.
Yield and Quality Response of Florunner Peanut to Applied Drought at Several Growth Stages1
Authors: Stansell J. R , Pallas J. E
Published: April 2010

Florunner peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) were subjected to 35 and 70-day drought periods during several growth stages (days after planting). Drought conditions were maintained by the use of automatic rainout shelters covering groups of drainage lysimeter plots.

Detrimental effects of 35-day drought periods were greatest from 71–105 days after planting, least for 106–140, and intermediate for 36–70 days after planting. Seventy days of drought extending from 36 through 105 days after planting effectively eliminated pod production, whereas 70 days of drought during the period of 71 through 140 days after planting reduced but did not completely eliminate the production of marketable pods.
Comparative Susceptibility of Four Experimental Peanut Lines and the Cultivar Florunner to Preharvest Aflatoxin Contamination
Authors: Blankenship P. D , Cole R. J , Sanders T. H
Published: April 2010

Four peanut genotypes, selected as resistant to invasion by Aspergillus flavus in laboratory screening with rehydrated, stored seed and Florunner cultivar were subjected to preharvest drought and temperature conditions conducive to A. flavus invasion and aflatoxin contamination. Preharvest aflatoxin contamination of peanuts has been previously correlated with geocarposphere temperature and moisture conditions during drought. All genotypes tested were highly contaminated with aflatoxin. This study indicates that a critical assessment should be made of the value of using the current laboratory method to select germplasm for resistance to A. flavus invasion and assuming resistance to aflatoxin contamination under field conditions.
Control of Florida Beggarweed (Desmodium tortuosum) in Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) with Chloramben1
Authors: Wehtje G , Reed R.B
Published: April 2010

Experiments were conducted in 1983 and 1984 to evaluate control of Florida beggarweed [Desmodium tortuosum (SW) DC.] in peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) with chloramben (3-amino-2,5-dichlorobenzoic acid) applied at 2.2 kg ai/ha at ground cracking; and chloramben (with crop oil concentrate included at 2 L/ha) applied at either 0.6, 1.1, 2.2, or 3.4 kg ai/ha, at either 30, 45, 60, 75, or 90 days after planting (DAP). Maximum control (as indicated by weed weight at harvest) was achieved with the ground-cracking treatment, and with postemergence applications of 2.2 kg/ha, or higher applied at 30 DAP. Later applications resulted in progressively less control. Peanuts were tolerant to all rates evaluated, as indicated by yield and grade, provided the application was either before or after the flowering and pegging period (45 to 60 DAP). Growth chamber studies indicated that a spreader-sticker type adjuvant (i.e. a petroleum or vegetable based oil-surfactant blends) was essential for acceptable postemergence activity. Comparisons of autoradiograms prepared from peanuts and Florida beggarweed plants where 14C-chloramben had been applied to the foliage and thin layer chromatographic analysis of foliar extracts indicated that the relative tolerance of peanuts could be attributed to the combined effects of limited absorption and translocation, as well as the enhanced ability of peanuts to convert the absorbed chloramben to a non phytotoxic N-glucosyl conjugate.
Cercospora Leafspot Management Decisions: An Economic Analysis of a Weather-Based Strategy for Timing Fungicide Applications1,,2
Authors: Johnson C. S , Phipps P. M , Beute M. K
Published: April 2010

The average savings in peanut leafspot control costs from use of the Virginia leafspot advisory program versus the conventional 14-day application schedule ranged from $70.95/ha for cupric hydroxide plus sulfur to $97.39/ha for benomyl plus sulfur in 1980–1983. Increases in net returns from use of benomyl plus sulfur, chlorothalonil, or cupric hydroxide plus sulfur with the leafspot advisory were attributed to increases in yield as well as decreased control costs. Average annual increases in net return from use of the advisory in comparison to standard 14-day programs of the same fungicides were $259.99, $200.21, $192.55, and $220.57/ha for 1980, 1981, 1982, and 1983, respectively. Annual variation in economic returns was similar for all fungicides and for both application schedules tested.
Development of Statistical Models to Simulate the Testing of Farmers Stock Peanuts for Aflatoxin Using Visual, Thin Layer Chromatography, and Minicolumn Methods1
Authors: Whitaker T. B , Dickens J. W , Chew V
Published: April 2010

The negative binomial probability function was used to model the distribution of sample aflatoxin test results when replicated grade samples from farmers stock peanuts are analyzed by thin layer chromatography and minicolumn methods. The Poisson probability funtion was used to model the distribution of the number of kernels with visible Aspergillus flavus growth found in replicated grade samples of farmers stock peanuts when the visible A. flavus method is used. The probabilities of accepting a lot of farmers stock peanuts with given aflatoxin concentrations when using a 465-g grade sample and 2 different accept/reject levels were predicted with the models and compared to observed acceptance probabilities computed from previously published data for each of the 3 methods. The comparisons showed good agreement between the predicted acceptance probabilities and the observed acceptance probabilities.
Special Elections to the U.S. House of Representatives: A General Election Barometer?
Authors: SMITH DAVID R. , BRUNELL THOMAS L.
Published: April 2010

Vacancies in the U.S. House of Representatives are filled using special elections. These elections occur off the usual American electoral cycle, and their results are routinely portrayed by the American mass media as indications of what to expect in the next general election. We examined the predictive power of special elections results with respect to the general election outcomes for the U.S. House of Representatives from 1900 to 2008. We found that special elections that yield a change in partisan control do have predictive power regarding general election results.
Cadherin-dependent adhesion of human U373MG glioblastoma cells promotes neurite outgrowth and increases migratory capacity
Authors: Cifarelli Christopher P. , Titus Brian , Yeoh Hian Kwang
Published: April 2010

Object

The current management of primary CNS tumors involves a multimodal approach, incorporating cytoreductive techniques including resection, radiotherapy, and antiproliferative chemotherapeutic agents. Despite these attempts, the majority of patients with a diagnosis of a high-grade glioma have a dismal prognosis, with the leading cause of treatment failure and tumor recurrence attributable to local invasion of adjacent brain parenchyma. The current study examines the capacity of glioma tumor cells to undergo neurite outgrowth and local migration, specifically focusing on the role of the cadherin cell adhesion system.

Methods

Using a recombinant cadherin ectodomain protein, U373MG human glioblastoma cells were assessed for their ability to adhere and migrate in a cadherin-dependent manner in culture. Adhesion was evaluated via growth assessment and neurite length at 72 hours growth on an immobilized cadherin substrate and compared with other matrix adhesion proteins, such as Type IV collagen and vitronectin. Migratory capacity was measured via modified transwell assays, also using recombinant cadherin ectodomain in comparison with collagen and vitronectin.

Results

Cadherin adherent cells adopt a fasciculated morphology, with a significant increase in neurite extension, measuring 104 ± 13.3 μm in length, compared with background adhesion on bovine serum albumin and nonfunctional cadherin ectodomain controls measuring 55 ± 4.4 and 47 ± 3.84 μm, respectively (p = 0.029). Significant increases in neurite length compared with controls were also observed in the vitronectin (81 ± 4.69 μm) and Type IV collagen (91 ± 7.7 μm) groups (p = 0.017 and 0.025, respectively). With respect to migration, U373 cells demonstrate increased invasion in response to cadherin ectodomain exposure, whereas vitronectin and Type IV collagen were not potent initiators of migration through the transwell barrier. Both adhesion and migration outcomes were noted in the absence of any relative changes in cell proliferation, indicating a primary role for the cadherin-based adhesion system in tumor invasion.

Conclusions

Cadherin-based adhesion promotes increased adhesion, neurite outgrowth, and migration in human U373MG glioblastoma cells, providing a novel area of research for the development of therapeutic targets addressing local tumor invasion.