text: Angiotensin-converting enzyme gene variants are associated with both cortisol secretion and late-life depression.
  Abstract : Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is assumed to influence the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis, which shows hyperactivity in depressed patients. ACE could thus be a promising candidate gene for late-life depression but this has not been examined previously. Depression was assessed in 1005 persons aged at least 65 years, at baseline and over the 10-year follow-up. A clinical level of depression (DEP) was defined as having a score of > or =16 on the Centre for Epidemiology Studies-Depression scale or a diagnosis of current major depression based on the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview and according to DSM-IV criteria. Seven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the ACE gene were genotyped and diurnal cortisol secretion, as an index of HPA axis activity, was measured. Multivariable analyses were adjusted for socio-demographic and vascular factors, cognitive impairment, and apolipoprotein E. Strong significant associations were found between all seven SNPs and DEP and, in particular, first-onset DEP in persons without a past history of depression (P-values ranging from 0.005 to 0.0004). These associations remained significant after correction for multiple testing. The genotypes that were associated with an increased risk of DEP were also significantly associated with an increase in cortisol secretion under stress conditions. Variants of the ACE gene influence cortisol secretion and appear as susceptibility factors for late-life depression in the elderly population. Whether this could represent a common pathophysiological mechanism linking HPA axis and late-life depression remains to be explored.
  
  Karen is the effervescent Partner in the business. With her dynamic personality Karen ensures that clients’ reporting, payroll and MYOB are all up to speed and functioning optimally. She specialises in all things relating to MYOB including installation, set-up and training. She also works with clients on their bookkeeping, preparation of business activities statements and income activity statements. Clients view Karen as a part of their own team and say that her input into the setup and management of these functions is invaluable. Karen loves cooking and family vacations.
  
  The annual Hambleton Hall October Mushroom Hunt went ahead on Saturday 10 October. As outdoor events remain possible, this was a well-attended occasion, and local Food and Drink Writer, Debs Pennell, was lucky enough to take part.
  This popular event was led by expert mycologist Paul Nichol and Tim Hart owner of Hambleton Hall Hotel. Foragers were treated to a morning of hunting for mushrooms in local woods followed by an exceptional mushroom-inspired three-course lunch at the hotel.
  Having collected a veritable array of fungi, guests assembled in the woods for discussion and identification. Paul Nichol’s informative and eloquent description of each mushroom and Tim Hart’s witty interjections were interesting and amusing. The morning’s foraging resulted in the group collecting a goodly number of edible fungi, but with one deadly poisonous variety amongst them, and several rather toxic individual species. Mushroom foraging remains a risky business, with around 50 poisonous mushroom varieties in this country, 15 of those being deadly!
  After a morning in the woods, everyone was ready to enjoy Head Chef, Aaron Patterson’s Fungi Foray lunch, which was an enviable compilation of exquisite flavours, textures and autumn colours: Cèpe Tortellino, Wild Mushroom Consommé flavoured with Tarragon, Roast Guinea Fowl, Trompettes, Wild Mushroom Risotto and a seasonal dessert of Sablé Breton, Caramelised Apples and Blackberries; clean and earthy on the palate and a work of art to the eyes. A Michelin-starred lunch with exceptional service from the charming front of house team.
  Hambleton Hall holds several events during the year for non-residents of the hotel. Subscribe to the mailing list to receive special offers and updates on their latest news.