bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Affirmative Action's Contradictory Consequences
Authors: Heilman Madeline E.
Published: April 2010

This comment raises questions about whether affirmative action has actually moved us closer to the objective of creating a more equal workplace. It explores some of the potential psychological costs of affirmative action—costs that paradoxically may undermine its objectives—and their implications for achieving the goal of workplace equality.
Negative Thermal Expansion and Magnetic Transition in Anti‐Perovskite Structured Mn3Zn1−xSnxN Compounds
Authors: Sun Ying , Wang Cong , Wen Yongchun , Chu Lihua , Pan Hui , Nie Man , Tang Meibo
Published: April 2010

The thermal expansion properties of Mn3Zn1−xSnxN (x=0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.5, 0.8, 1.0) compounds were investigated by variable temperature X‐ray powder diffraction. With increasing Sn content, the thermal expansion behavior of Mn3Zn1−xSnxN changes from positive to negative and returns to positive near the magnetic transition temperature range. Moreover, the magnetic transition temperature increases from 185 to 495 K. It is interesting that the abnormal thermal expansion behavior of Mn3Zn1−xSnxN is related to the number of valence electrons on Zn site and the equivalent effect with three valence electrons is beneficial for displaying negative thermal expansion. In addition, the antiferromagnetic order state gradually canted with the increasing Sn content due to the increase of Mn–Mn distance.
Magnetic Phase Formation in CoTi‐Substituted Ba Hexaferrite Coatings Prepared with Atmospheric Plasma Spraying
Authors: Lisjak Darja , Bolelli Giovanni , Lusvarghi Luca , Bégard Marion , Bruehl Markus , Bobzin Kirsten , Lintunen Pertti , Kanerva Ulla , Pasquale Massimo , Drofenik Miha
Published: April 2010

Thick coatings of CoTi‐substituted Ba hexaferrite with the nominal composition BaCoTiFe10O19 were prepared using atmospheric plasma‐spraying technology. The coatings were prepared from prereacted powders of the desired composition. The as‐deposited coatings showed a high degree of crystallinity. A detailed investigation of the coatings' phase compositions was conducted with micro‐Raman spectroscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Two magnetic ferrite phases, CoTi‐substituted Ba hexaferrite and Co ferrite, were identified in the coatings. An X‐ray powder‐diffraction analysis and a quantitative structural analysis based on Rietveld refinement showed that the mass ratio of the two phases and their chemical composition varied with respect to the spraying parameters. Consequently, the static and microwave magnetic properties of the as‐sprayed coatings also varied. We were able to explain the formation of the two ferrite phases based on the interplay between the partial melting of the feedstock powder and the recrystallization kinetics.
Demur, Defer, and Deter: Concrete, Actual Practices for Negotiation in Interaction
Authors: Maynard Douglas W.
Published: April 2010

Investigators use the term “negotiation” to cover activities ranging from those in hospitals and universities, to labor–management relations in industry, to political alignments in the global economy, and often approach negotiation in a general or abstract sense, as one possible means for jointly “getting things accomplished.” My conversation analytic approach is concrete: I discuss negotiations as talk that contains a bargaining sequence or set of such sequences whereby participants display a position or positions, often serially, until agreement is reached (success) or abandoned (nonsuccess). Bargaining sequences include a proposal and a response that aligns (acceptance) or one that does not align to the proposal (rejection). Interactionally, of course, these are not equivalent responses. A third kind of response is one that withholds acceptance or rejection and instead involves production of a counterproposal. I examine practices related to the bargaining sequence under the terms defer (postponing an occasioned next bargaining action), demur (withholding a tacitly implicated next bargaining action), and deter (using “projected reportable speech” to discourage a negotiator's expectations). Related to the latter practice, but opposite from deterring expectations, a practice for encouraging expectations is to animate speech in which the speaker as agent for the principals appears to urge those principals toward the coparticipant's position. The data for this study include recordings of a real estate case and plea bargaining episodes in a misdemeanor criminal court. I draw implications for the division between descriptive analysis and prescriptive analysis and for the general understanding of negotiations in a variety of arenas.
Negotiation and Discourse Analysis
Authors: Putnam Linda L.
Published: April 2010

Discourse analysis focuses on the ways that language and symbols shape interpretations of negotiators' identities, instrumental activity, and relationships. These meanings arise, in part, from language patterns that bargainers employ while they are involved in a negotiation. This article provides a brief overview of research findings on language use in six areas of negotiation: strategy, relational development, identity management, emotional expression, issue development, and framing. It also employs a case example of a real estate negotiation to illustrate how discourse patterns discursively construct the nature of risk, certainty, and loss–gain through framing and issue development.
Looking at Negotiation and Dispute Resolution through a CA/DA Lens
Authors: Susskind Lawrence
Published: April 2010

Negotiation analysts have increasingly focused on the internal decision‐making dynamics in the minds of the parties. They ought to give more attention to the ways in which meaning is jointly constituted through sequences of verbal and nonverbal exchanges. The tools of conversation analysis (CA) and discourse analysis (DA) can be helpful in this regard.
Association Between Mannose‐Binding Lectin Gene Polymorphisms and Pre‐eclampsia in Brazilian Women
Authors: Vianna Priscila , Da Silva Gabriela Kniphoff , Dos Santos Bruno Paiva , Bauer Moisés Evandro , Dalmáz Caroline Abrão , Bandinelli Eliane , Chies José Artur Bogo
Published: April 2010

Citation Vianna P, da Silva GK, dos Santos BP, Bauer ME, Dalmáz CA, Bandinelli E, Chies JAB. Association between Mannose‐Binding Lectin gene polymorphisms and pre‐eclampsia in Brazilian Women. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010

Problem  Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) is involved in the maintenance of an inflammatory environment in uterus. High MBL levels have been associated with successful pregnancies whereas low levels are involved in pre‐eclampsia (PE) development. Here, we evaluated MBL2 gene polymorphisms in the structural and promoter regions addressing their association with PE.

Method of study  DNA samples from 162 control pregnant women and 157 pregnant PE women were genotyped and data compared with demographic and clinical characteristics.

Results  High frequency of C and D alleles (related to low MBL levels) was observed in PE women when compared to controls (C: 0.08 versus 0.03, P = 0.006; D: 0.10 versus 0.05, P = 0.009). Grouping the MBL genotypes according to phenotype, a higher frequency of OO genotype was observed in PE women when compared to control women (0.15 versus 0.04, P = 0.007).

Conclusion  Our data suggest that women with genotypes associated with low MBL levels could be potential PE developers.
Insights into the cell of origin in breast cancer and breast cancer stem cells
Authors: LINDEMAN Geoffrey J , VISVADER Jane E
Published: April 2010

The precise cell types that give rise to tumors and mechanisms that underpin tumor heterogeneity are poorly understood. There is increasing evidence to suggest that diverse solid tumors are hierarchically organized and may be sustained by a distinct subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs). The CSC hypothesis provides an attractive cellular mechanism that can account for the therapeutic refractoriness and dormant behavior exhibited by many tumor types. Breast cancer was the first solid malignancy from which CSCs were identified and isolated. Direct evidence for the CSC hypothesis has also recently emerged from mouse models of mammary tumorigenesis, although alternative models to explain heterogeneity also seem to apply. Our group has found that the luminal epithelial progenitor marker CD61/β3 integrin identified a CSC population in mammary tumors from MMTV‐wnt‐1 mice. However, no CSCs could be identified in the more homogeneous MMTV‐neu/erbB2 model, suggesting an alternate (clonal evolution or stochastic) model of tumorigenesis. It seems likely that both paradigms of tumor propagation exist in human cancer. From a clinical perspective, the CSC concept has significant implications. Quiescent CSCs are thought to be more resistant to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Enrichment of putative CSCs has been noted in studies of chemotherapy‐treated patients, lending support to the CSC hypothesis and their potential role in chemoresistance. Although many unresolved questions on CSCs remain, ongoing efforts to identify and characterize CSCs continue to be an important area of investigation, with the potential to identify novel tumor targeting strategies.
The Use of Nursing Diagnoses in Perioperative Documentation
Authors: Junttila Kristiina , Hupli Maija , Salanterä Sanna
Published: April 2010

PURPOSE.  To clinically validate the nursing diagnoses of the first Finnish version of Perioperative Nursing Data Set (PNDS) by using them in perioperative documentation.

METHODS.  Nursing diagnoses were used in documentation in four operating departments with 250 patients. In analysis, nonparametric tests were applied.

FINDINGS.  While intraoperatively nursing diagnoses focused on physiological concerns, postoperatively the focus shifted to that of recovery.

CONCLUSIONS.  The findings revealed the importance of safety‐related routines in perioperative care. Nursing diagnoses in the Finnish version of PNDS are sensitive in describing the rationales for perioperative care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  Nursing classifications illustrate the nursing process in a structured form. Nursing diagnosis is an early step in the decision‐making process that aims to achieve expected outcomes in nursing care.

TARKOITUS:  Validoida PNDS‐luokituksen suomalaisen version diagnoositermit käyttämällä niitä perioperatiivisen hoitotyön kirjaamisessa.

MENETELMÄT:  Hoitotyön diagnooseja käytettiin kirjaamisessa 250 potilaan kohdalla. Aineiston analyysissä käytettiin ei‐parametrisiä testejä.

TULOKSET:  Hoidon intraoperatiivisessa vaiheessa korostuvat potilaan fysiologiaan liittyvät ja postoperatiivisessa vaiheessa potilaan toipumiseen liittyvät hoitotyön diagnoosit.

JOHTOPÄÄTÖKSET:  Perioperatiivisessa hoitotyössä painottuvat potilaan hoidon turvallisuuteen tähtäävät rutiinit. PNDS‐luokituksen suomalaisen version diagnoositermejä voidaan käyttää kuvaamaan leikkauspotilaiden hoidon tarpeita.

TULOSTEN HYÖDYNNETTÄVYYS:  Hoitotyön prosessia voidaan kuvata rakenteisesti hoitotyön luokituksilla. Hoitotyön diagnoosin määrittäminen on osa päätöksentekoprosessia tavoitteena tunnistaa ja saavuttaa toivotut tulokset potilaan hoidossa.
Nursing Specialty Knowledge as Expressed by Standardized Nursing Languages
Authors: Thoroddsen Asta , Ehnfors Margareta , Nurs Ed Dipl , Ehrenberg Anna
Published: April 2010

PURPOSE.  To describe how nursing specialty knowledge is demonstrated in nursing records by use of standardized nursing languages.

METHODS.  A cross‐sectional review of nursing records (N = 265) in four specialties.

FINDINGS.  The most common nursing diagnoses represented basic human needs of patients across specialties. The nursing diagnoses and related interventions represented specific knowledge in each specialty. Sixty‐three nursing diagnoses (nine appeared in four specialties) and 168 nursing interventions were used (24 appeared in four specialties).

CONCLUSIONS.  Findings suggest that standardized nursing languages are capable of distinguishing between specialties. Further studies with large data sets are needed to explore the relationships between nursing diagnoses and nursing interventions in order to make explicit the knowledge that nurses use in their nursing practice.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Nursing data in clinical practice must be stored and retrievable to support clinical decision making, advance nursing knowledge, and the unique perspective of nursing.
Variations in the Na—O anticorrelation in globular clusters: evidence for a deep mixing episode in red giant branch stars
Authors: Lee Jae-Woo
Published: April 2010

The Na—O anticorrelation seen in almost all globular clusters ever studied using high-resolution spectroscopy is now generally explained by the primordial pollution from the first generation of the intermediate-mass asymptotic giant branch stars to the protostellar clouds of the second generation of stars. However, the primordial pollution scenario may not tell the whole story for the observed Na–O anticorrelations in globular clusters. Using the recent data by Carretta and his collaborators, the different shapes of the Na–O anticorrelations for red giant branch stars brighter than and fainter than the red giant branch bump can be clearly seen. If the elemental abundance measurements by Carretta and his collaborators are not greatly in error, this variation in the Na–O anticorrelation against luminosity indicates an internal deep mixing episode during the ascent of the low-mass red giant branch in globular clusters. Our result implies that the multiple stellar population division scheme solely based on [O/Fe] and [Na/Fe] ratios of a globular cluster, which is becoming popular, is not reliable for stars brighter than the red giant branch bump. Our result also suggests that sodium supplied by the deep mixing may alleviate the sodium underproduction problem within the primordial asymptotic giant branch pollution scenario.
Fixation of Brain Tumor Biopsy Specimens with RCL2 Results in Well‐Preserved Histomorphology, Immunohistochemistry and Nucleic Acids
Authors: Preusser Matthias , Plumer Sabina , Dirnberger Elisabeth , Hainfellner Johannes A. , Mannhalter Christine
Published: April 2010

RCL2 is an alcohol‐based fixative reported to preserve histomorphology and nucleic acids in non‐CNS neoplasms. We compared histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, DNA and RNA in brain tumor specimens preserved frozen at −80°C, and after formalin or RCL2 fixation. RCL2‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (RCLPE) samples showed well‐preserved histomorphology and specific immunoreactivity comparable to formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) specimens testing a broad panel of antibodies. In all the analyzed cases, high‐molecular weight DNA (up to a fragment length of 600 bp) was amplifyable from RCLPE samples, even after prolonged fixation times. Beta‐actin (ACTB) and O6‐methylguanine‐methyltransferase (MGMT) gene concentrations were significantly higher in DNA isolated from RCLPE specimens as compared with FFPE specimens. Testing of MGMT promoter methylation status using methylation‐specific polymerase‐chain reaction (MSP) yielded conclusive results in 8/8 analyses in RCLPE and 6/8 analyses in FFPE material, respectively. Amplification of three reference genes (ABL, RAR‐alpha, BCR‐1) from cDNA showed good RNA preservation in frozen and RCLPE tissue specimens and significant RNA degradation in all FFPE samples. In conclusion, RCL2 fixation of brain tumor biopsies does not seem to significantly compromise histological tumor typing or immunohistochemistry and preserves nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) at a better quality than formalin fixation.
Wallerian Degeneration: A Major Component of Early Axonal Pathology in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Dziedzic Tomasz , Metz Imke , Dallenga Tobias , König Fatima Barbara , Müller Sven , Stadelmann Christine , Brück Wolfgang
Published: April 2010

Axonal loss is a major component of the pathology of multiple sclerosis (MS) and the morphological basis of permanent clinical disability. It occurs in demyelinating plaques but also in the so‐called normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM). However, the contribution of Wallerian degeneration to axonal pathology is not known. Here, we analyzed the extent of Wallerian degeneration and axonal pathology in periplaque white matter (PPWM) and lesions in early multiple sclerosis biopsy tissue from 63 MS patients. Wallerian degeneration was visualized using an antibody against the neuropeptide Y receptor Y1 (NPY‐Y1R). The number of SMI‐32‐positive axons with non‐phosphorylated neurofilaments was significantly higher in both PPWM and plaques compared to control white matter. APP‐positive, acutely damaged axons were found in significantly higher numbers in plaques compared to PPWM. Strikingly, the number of NPY‐Y1R‐positive axons undergoing Wallerian degeneration was significantly higher in PPWM and plaques than in control WM. NPY‐Y1R‐positive axons in PPWM were strongly correlated to those in the lesions. Our results show that Wallerian degeneration is a major component of axonal pathology in the periplaque white matter in early MS. It may contribute to radiological changes observed in early MS and most likely plays a major role in the development of disability.
Effect of Liberibacter Infection (Huanglongbing or “Greening” Disease) of Citrus on Orange Juice Flavor Quality by Sensory Evaluation
Authors: Plotto Anne , Baldwin Elizabeth , McCollum Greg , Manthey John , Narciso Jan , Irey Mike
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT: Some anecdotal reports suggest that infection of citrus trees with Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Las), the suspected causal agent of huanglongbing (HLB) disease, imparts off flavor to orange juice. It is of interest to the industry to know how Las infection affects juice quality with respect to cultivar, maturity, or processing method. Hamlin, Midsweet, and Valencia oranges were harvested over 2 y from trees that tested negative (Las−) or positive (Las+) for Las from different groves and included normal looking (nonsymptomatic) and symptomatic fruit (small, green, and lopsided) from Las+ trees. In the 1st year, fruit were manually juiced, while in the 2nd year, a commercial process was used. Juice from Las+ trees was compared to juice from Las− trees in difference‐from‐control tests, and by descriptive analysis. Results showed large variability due to tree, harvest date, and cultivar. Juice from Hamlin Las+ trees tended to be more bitter and sour than its Las− counterpart. In contrast, hand processed Valencia juice from Las+ trees was perceived to have some off‐flavor and bitterness compared to control, but the following year, commercially processed Valencia juice from Las+ trees was perceived to be only slightly more sour than juice from Las− trees for the April harvest, and to be sweeter for the June harvest. When juice from individual replicates was pooled to be more representative of a commercial situation, there was no difference between Las+ and Las− juice in Valencia. Trained panel differences were noted for juice from Hamlin Las+ fruit, especially for symptomatic fruit.

Practical Application: Assumptions that juice made from oranges harvested from Huanglongbing (from infection with Liberibacter sp.) affected trees is off‐flavored appeared to be generally more true for Hamlin juice than for Midsweet or Valencia, especially for Hamlin juice made from symptomatic fruit. For Midsweet and Valencia, flavor differences between juice made from fruit harvested from diseased or healthy trees varied greatly between trees, season, and even processing method. Under a commercial processing situation, where juice is blended from several varieties, seasons, and multiple locations, it is expected that off‐flavor will not be a major problem.
Defying the curse of ignorance: perspectives in insect macroecology and conservation biogeography
Authors: DINIZ‐FILHO JOSE ALEXANDRE FELIZOLA , DE MARCO JR PAULO , HAWKINS BRADFORD A.
Published: April 2010

Abstract.  1. Despite the abundance, richness and ecological importance of insects, distribution patterns remain unknown for most groups, and this creates serious difficulties for the evaluation of macroecological patterns and the underlying drivers. Although the problem is real, we provide an optimistic perspective on insect macroecology and conservation biogeography.

2. Although data for macroecological analysis of insects are not as complete as for many other organisms (e.g., mammals and birds), at least for some insect groups they are equivalent to what existed 10 or 20 years ago for the charismatic megafauna, so initiatives to compile data for broad‐scale analyses are feasible.

3. The primary constraint for studies in insect macroecology and conservation biogeography is not (only) poor data; part of the problem arises from a lack of knowledge on how macroecological patterns and processes can be analysed and interpreted.

4. Finally, we present an overview of recent papers using insects as model organisms in macroecology, including richness and diversity gradients, ecogeographical rules, inter‐specific relationships, conservation planning and modelling species distributions. Although our list is not exhaustive, it may be useful as guidelines for future research and encourage ICD readers to develop analyses for other insect groups.
On the vertical distribution of bees in a temperate deciduous forest
Authors: ULYSHEN MICHAEL D. , SOON VILLU , HANULA JAMES L.
Published: April 2010

Abstract.  1. Despite a growing interest in forest canopy biology, very few studies have examined the vertical distribution of forest bees. In this study, bees were sampled using 12 pairs of flight‐intercept traps suspended in the canopy (≥15 m) and near the ground (0.5 m) in a bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.

2. In total, 6653 bees from 5 families and 71 species were captured. Augochlora pura (Say) (Halictidae), accounted for over 91% of all bees collected and was over 40 times more abundant on average in the canopy than near the ground.

3. Even after removing A. pura from the dataset, bee abundance, richness and Shannon’s diversity were considerably higher in the canopy than near the ground.

4. According to both non‐metric multidimensional scaling and analysis of similarities, the bee community in the canopy was distinct from that near the ground. Based on indicator species analysis, A. pura, Lasioglossum imitatum (Smith), Lasioglossum versatum sensu Mitch., and Lasioglossum zephyrum (Smith) were significantly associated with the canopy whereas Andrena personata Robertson and Lasioglossum macoupinense (Robertson) were significantly associated with the ground.

5. Augochlora pura was consistently more abundant in the canopy than near the ground throughout the season, but was more so in mid‐to‐late summer (i.e., June–September), a period coinciding with low floral resource availability. As a group, the remaining bee community exhibited a similar pattern.

6. We suspect that bees frequent the canopy, particularly during times of low nectar and pollen availability, to acquire non‐floral resources such as honeydew and sap.
Pathological airway remodelling in inflammation
Authors: Westergren‐Thorsson Gunilla , Larsen Kristoffer , Nihlberg Kristian , Andersson‐Sjöland Annika , Hallgren Oskar , Marko‐Varga György , Bjermer Leif
Published: April 2010

Introduction:  Airway remodelling refers to a wide pattern of patophysiological mechanisms involving smooth muscle cell hyperplasia, increase of activated fibroblasts and myofibroblasts with deposition of extracellular matrix. In asthma, it includes alterations of the epithelial cell layer with goblet cell hyperplasia, thickening of basement membranes, peri‐bronchial and peri‐broncheolar fibrosis. Moreover, airway remodelling occurs not only in asthma but also in several pulmonary disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and systemic sclerosis. Asthma treatment with inhaled corticosteroids does not fully prevent airway remodelling and thus have restricted influence on the natural course of the disease.

Objectives:  This review highlights the role of different fibroblast phenotypes and potential origins of these cells in airway remodelling.

Results:  During inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, fibroblasts can differentiate into an active, more contractile phenotype termed myofibroblast, with expression of stress fibres and alpha‐smooth muscle actin. The origin of myofibroblasts has lately been debated, and three sources have been identified: recruitment and differentiation of resident tissue fibroblasts; fibrocytes – circulating progenitor cells; and epithelial–mesenchymal transition.

Conclusion:  It is clear that airway mesenchymal cells, including fibroblasts/myofibroblasts, are more dynamic in terms of differentiation and origin than has previously been recognised. Considering that these cells are key players in the remodelling process, it is of utmost importance to characterise specific markers for the various fibroblast phenotypes and to explore factors that drive the differentiation to develop future diagnostic and therapeutic tools for asthma patients.

Please cite this paper as: Westergren‐Thorsson G, Larsen K, Nihlberg K, Andersson‐Sjöland A, Hallgren O, Marko‐Varga G and Bjermer L. Pathological airway remodelling in inflammation. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 1–8.
Monitoring airway remodeling in asthma
Authors: Larsson Kjell
Published: April 2010

Introduction:  Airway remodeling occurs in both mild and severe forms of asthma but, from a clinical point of view, airway remodeling in asthma is difficult to monitor.

Objectives:  The objective of this overview is to make an inventory of which methods could be possible to monitor airway remodeling in asthma.

Methods:  Access to airway tissue through biopsies or material from surgery enables direct assessment of airway remodeling but there are no specific inflammatory markers obtained from, for example, sputum, lavage fluid, blood, exhaled air, exhaled breath condensate, urine or saliva that reflect certain aspects of airway remodeling. Physiological measures such as changes in lung function and bronchial responsiveness over time co‐varies with changes in airway structure but these interactions are complex and non‐specific. Novel imaging techniques have shown promising results and recent studies have demonstrated how structural airway and lung changes can be detected on computerized tomography.

Results and Conclusion:  Today, there are no available techniques for monitoring airway remodeling in daily clinical practice, but further development within this area and studies on co‐variation between physiologic, inflammatory and visual abnormalities will likely enable us to better monitor airway remodeling in the future.

Please cite this paper as: Larsson K. Monitoring airway remodeling in asthma. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 35–40.
Effects of pharmacological and non‐pharmacological interventions
Authors: Sandström Thomas
Published: April 2010

Background:  Asthma is recognised as a condition with variable airway obstruction with pathophysiological features that include activation of a wide range of inflammatory and structural cells. Additionally, structural changes in the airways have been demonstrated. This includes increased thickening of components in the basement membrane region, increased smooth muscle mass, increased vascularisation and many other events that is often referred to as remodelling of the airways. These processes and the underlying mechanisms have attracted considerable attention.

Methods and Results:  This review describes the different interventive approaches that have been tried in order to improve asthma control and affect the underlying pathophysiological pathways. These include elimination of harmful environmental and occupational exposures, a wide range of pharmacological agents as well as bronchial thermoplasty. The existing evidence for effects on airway inflammation and airway remodelling is discussed in relationship to mechanistic aspects and short‐ and long‐term outcome.

Conclusion:  It is expected that modulation of the asthmatic airway remodelling will become an even more important endpoint in the near future.

Please cite this paper as: Sandström T. Effects of pharmacological and non‐pharmacological interventions. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 41–48.
Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐dependent production of profibrotic mediators by hypoxic Kupffer cells
Authors: Copple Bryan L. , Bai Shan , Moon Jeon‐Ok
Published: April 2010

Aim:  Liver fibrosis develops when chronic liver injury stimulates cells in the liver to produce mediators that activate hepatic stellate cells and stimulate them to secrete collagen. Recent studies suggest that the hypoxia‐regulated transcription factor, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α, is essential for upregulation of profibrotic mediators, such as platelet‐derived growth factor, in the liver during the development of liver fibrosis. What remains unknown, however, is the cell type‐specific regulation of profibrotic mediators by hypoxia‐inducible factors. Accordingly, in the present study the hypothesis tested was that hypoxia‐inducible factors regulate production of profibrotic mediators by hypoxic Kupffer cells.

Methods:  Kupffer cells were isolated from control mice and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1β‐deficient mice and exposed to room air or 1% oxygen (i.e. hypoxia). Levels of profibrotic mediators were quantified by real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  Exposure of Kupffer cells isolated from control mice to 1% oxygen activated hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α, and increased mRNA levels of platelet‐derived growth factor‐B, vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin‐1 and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1. Upregulation of all of these mediators by hypoxia was prevented in Kupffer cells isolated from hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1β‐deficient mice.

Conclusion:  Results from these studies suggest that hypoxia‐inducible factors are critical regulators of profibrotic mediator production by hypoxic Kupffer cells.
Effect of long‐term late‐evening snack on health‐related quality of life in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Yamanaka‐Okumura Hisami , Nakamura Taki , Miyake Hidenori , Takeuchi Harumi , Katayama Takafumi , Morine Yuji , Imura Satoru , Shimada Mitsuo , Takeda Eiji
Published: April 2010

Aim:  In patients with liver cirrhosis, abnormal energy metabolism induces low health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) scores. However, late‐evening snack (LES) prevents morning starvation in cirrhotic patients. Our aim is to assess the effect of long‐term LES on HRQOL in cirrhotic patients, using the 36‐item Short Form (SF‐36) health survey.

Methods:  Thirty‐nine cirrhotic patients classified as Child–Pugh grade A were recruited. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: 24 were assigned to the non‐LES group and 15 to the LES group. SF‐36 scores, anthropometric data and serum biochemical parameters were examined in the non‐LES and LES groups at 0, 6 and 12 months.

Results:  Neither anthropometric data nor laboratory data showed significant differences between the non‐LES and the LES groups at 0, 6 and 12 months. The role–emotional (RE) HRQOL scores at 6 months and mental health (MH) scores at 6 and 12 months were significantly reduced from the baseline level in the non‐LES group. In contrast, these scores remained unchanged in the LES group. General health perception (GH) scores at 12 months, RE at 6 months and MH at 6 and 12 months in the LES group were significantly higher than those of the non‐LES group.

Conclusion:  Long‐term LES administration may be helpful in maintaining higher HRQOL in patients with cirrhosis.
Effect of chronic methylene blue administration on hypoxemia in rats with common bile duct ligation
Authors: Miyamoto Akiko , Katsuta Yasumi , Zhang Xue‐Jun , Li Hong‐Li , Ohsuga Masaru , Komeichi Hirokazu , Shimizu Shuji , Akimoto Toshio , Mizuno Kyoichi
Published: April 2010

Aim: Acute administration of methylene blue (MB) can reverse hypoxemia in patients with hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS). We evaluated the effect of chronic MB administration in common bile duct‐ligated rats, which develop HPS by 5 weeks after surgery.

Methods: A total of 96 Sprague–Dawley rats were used, including 63 rats with common bile duct ligation (CBDL), 22 sham‐operated rats and 11 normal control rats. MB (6 mg/kg) was injected s.c. once a day for 4 weeks. Evaluation of hemodynamics and intrapulmonary vascular dilatation (IPVD), as well as blood sampling for arterial blood gas analysis, were done under conscious and unrestrained conditions. Hemodynamics were assessed by the reference sample method using141Ce‐microspheres (15 µm in diameter), and IPVD was also determined by i.v. injection of these microspheres. Histological examination of the lungs was done with hematoxylin–eosin staining and immunohistochemical staining for von Willebrand factor or vascular endothelial growth factor.

Results: Both the arterial oxygen tension and alveolar–arterial oxygen difference were significantly improved in MB‐treated CBDL rats. The hyperdynamic circulation and splanchnic hyperemia seen in untreated CBDL rats were also alleviated by MB treatment. However, IPVD was not affected by MB. Histological examination of the lungs indicated that MB treatment reduced the proliferation of alveolar capillary vessels and angiogenesis, leading to improvement of arterial dysoxygenation. Hepatic synthetic and detoxification functions, as well as renal function, were not altered by MB treatment.

Conclusion: Methylene blue may be a candidate treatment for HPS that does not cause deterioration of hepatic or renal function.
The Learning Science in Informal Environments Study in Context
Authors: Ucko David A.
Published: April 2010

Abstract  The National Science Foundation (NSF) funded the National Research Council report Learning Science in Informal Environments to synthesize the growing body of diverse research underlying informal science learning. Intended outcomes were to establish a base for future research, to provide evidence‐based guidance for those developing and delivering informal learning experiences, to broaden the definition of “learning” beyond that typically used in formal education, to encourage knowledge sharing across the heterogeneous informal science education field, and to provide a measure of external validation for the value of learning in informal settings. NSF investment in this study is part of a larger ongoing effort by the Informal Science Education program to advance knowledge and practice and build capacity in the field.
The LSIE Report and IMLS: Supporting Learning in the Informal Environments of Museums and Libraries
Authors: Semmel Marsha L.
Published: April 2010

Abstract  The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has funded hundreds of projects that promote lifelong learning in all disciplines and types of museums and libraries, including museum/library partnerships with schools, universities, and other formal learning organizations. Learning Science in Informal Environments: People, Places, and Pursuits (LSIE) is a milestone in a continuing quest to understand and articulate the impact of informal learning experiences. Its recommendations identify significant issues for future research and practice, with implications beyond science learning. This article places the report in the context of previous and future IMLS work, including increased agency focus on—and resources for—research, evaluation, collaborative projects, and professional development.
Critical Questions at a Critical Time: Reflections on the Contributions ofLSIEto Museum Practices
Authors: Bartels Dennis , Semper Robert , Bevan Bronwyn
Published: April 2010

Abstract Writing from a science museum perspective, the authors argue that theLearning Science in Informal Environmentsreport arrives at a critical time, when growing policy interest in informal learning environments provides new opportunities for the museum field but also introduces potential threats to autonomy, diversity, and creativity. The authors explore critical questions raised in the report, including: 1) whether and how we represent our subject matter as cultural fields of practice, as opposed to fixed collections of facts and artifacts; 2) how we ensure, at a time of increasing interest and scrutiny from policymakers, that we continue to design for a variety of learning opportunities both across and within our institutions, thus sustaining rich, robust learning for more diverse and inclusive audiences; 3) how we develop better assessment questions, methodologies, and instrumentation that can more effectively address the contributions museums make to local learning ecologies. The authors conclude that, at this juncture, it is just as important for the education research community to learn from the practices of the museum field, as it is for the museum field to learn from the research.
Beyond Science: Implications of theLSIEReport for Art Museum Education
Authors: Luke Jessica J. , Knutson Karen
Published: April 2010

Abstract TheLearning Science in Informal Environmentsreport holds great potential for creating change among those who work in the field of science education. But to what extent can it inform other sectors of the informal education world? This article explores how theLSIEreport might influence research and practice in art museums. By comparing the report to a recent study in art education, the authors point out areas of overlap and divergence relative to content and skills, identity, and communities of practice. We suggest several implications for how art museums and science museums might learn from one another. A call to action is made for further research and discussion about common learning goals and outcomes for the art museum experience.
Dousing the Flames to Repair Brains
Authors: Minzenberg Michael J.
Published: April 2010

Neuron regeneration in neuroinflammatory diseases may be impeded by the inflammation process itself.
Addicted to Cancer
Authors: Morozov Alexei
Published: April 2010

While EGFR (ErbB1) and Her2 (ErbB2) have long been known as targets for cancer therapeutics, the third family member, ErbB3, now comes to the forefront in ovarian cancer.
Classification of the Late Cambrian trilobite Idiomesus Raymond
Authors: Ludvigsen Rolf , Westrop Stephen R.
Published: April 2010

Idiomesus Raymond, 1924 has been considered to be a Late Cambrian member of the blind family Shumardiidae on the basis of its small size, absence of eyes, effacement, and marginal sutures. However, evaluation of new material, including previously undescribed species, demonstrates that Idiomesus is a member of the ptychaspidid subfamily Ptychaspidinae. The genus now includes both sighted and blind species, as well as furrowed and effaced species with both marginal and opisthoparian sutures. New species are Idiomesus granti, I. greggi, and I. ultimus.
The stratigraphy, palynology, and climatic significance of pre-middle Wisconsin Pleistocene sediments, southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Authors: Alley Neville F. , Hicock Stephen R.
Published: April 2010

Palynological investigations of organic-rich sediments from the Muir Point Formation and basal Cowichan Head Formation on southernmost Vancouver Island have identified seven pollen zones. Modern pollen spectra from the extant vegetation in southwestern British Columbia aid in interpreting paleoenvironments from the fossil pollen assemblages. Six of the pollen zones (MP-1, MP-2, MP-3, MP-4, CB-3, and CB-4) are from the Muir Point Formation and are beyond the range of 14C dating. They record evidence of vegetation and climate during either the last interglacial or penultimate interglacial (or some much older interglaciation) when conditions were at first warmer and (or) drier than at present, then succeeded to cooler and (or) moister conditions. The seventh and youngest pollen zone (MP-5) provides evidence of subalpine to near tree-line vegetation growing in cool–cold conditions before 43 000 years BP, during the early Olympia nonglacial interval. These pollen zones and interpretations are in part correlative with established zones from adjacent Washington and eastern Vancouver Island.
Pleistocene aminostratigraphy of the Georgia Depression, southwest British Columbia
Authors: Hicock Stephen R. , Rutter Nathaniel W.
Published: April 2010

Amino-acid ratios of certain taxa of molluscs and wood were determined for Quaternary sediments in the Georgia Depression, southwest British Columbia. The stratigraphy and proposed ages of established major units are confirmed in all but one case by the amino-acid results. Aspartic-acid ratios in Clinocardium, Serripes, Nuculana, Mya, Macoma, and Hiatella averaged about 0.22, 0.23, 0.37, 0.28, 0.28, and 0.27, respectively, in late Wisconsinan Capilano Sediments and 0.37, 0.35, 0.44, 0.44, 0.56, and 0.44, respectively, in early Wisconsinan Dashwood and Semiahmoo sediments. D/L ratios of aspartic acid in Abies averaged about 0.14 in late Wisconsinan Fraser drift, 0.24 in the middle Wisconsinan Cowichan Head Formation, and 0.37 in the early Wisconsinan Dashwood and Semiahmoo drifts, whereas D/L ratios of aspartic acid from Picea averaged about 0.13 in the Cowichan Head Formation and 0.27 in the Sangamonian (?) Muir Point Formation. Ratios for the Muir Point Formation are judged to be much too low for the age of the sediments and, therefore, not reliable.Molluscan results from the Georgia Depression area were compared with D/L ratios of aspartic acid from the same mollusc taxa from the Puget Lowland to the south. Results are encouraging and appear to distinguish four Quaternary units within the combined region. Capilano Sediments correlate with Everson glaciomarine sediments, and Dashwood and Semiahmoo with Possession glaciomarine sediments. D/L ratios of wood samples from the Puget Lowland are poorly correlated with sediment age and so could not be compared with those of the Georgia Depression.
The debris of the Frank Slide and theories of rockslide–avalanche mobility
Authors: Cruden D. M. , Hungr O.
Published: April 2010

The Frank Slide, a 30 × 106 m3 rockslide–avalanche of Palaeozoic limestone, occurred in April 1903 from the east face of Turtle Mountain in the Crowsnest Pass region of southwestern Alberta, Canada.The reconstruction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) line created a cut up to 16 m high across the deposit, giving a unique cross section nearly the depth of the debris. The debris shows vertical sorting. The base material is crushed limestone, mainly of sand and gravel size, and contains rounded pebbles from till or alluvial deposits on the surface of separation. The upper surface of the debris is an accumulation of large, predominantly angular boulders. Grain-size analyses by sieving and by "area-by-number" counts demonstrate a gradual increase in grain size with height above the base of the cut. Such inverse grading with fines concentrated at the base of the debris indicates that the landslide was not fluidized by gas pore pressures.The base material has run ahead of the coarse debris of the slide, which usually forms a second distinct scarp up to 300 m from the edge of the slide debris. Lateral ridges and distal rims have formed at only three places on the slide's margins, all close to crests of steep slopes the debris has run up. The Frank Slide then is not a slide of Shreve's Blackhawk type. Support for boulders in the debris probably came from dispersive forces and motion-induced vibration.
Iron redistribution as a therapeutic strategy for treating diseases of localized iron accumulationThis review is one of a selection of papers published in a Special Issue on Oxidative Stress in Health and Disease.
Authors: Kakhlon Or , Breuer William , Munnich Arnold , Cabantchik Z. Ioav
Published: April 2010

Defective iron utilization leading to either systemic or regional misdistribution of the metal has been identified as a critical feature of several different disorders. Iron concentrations can rise to toxic levels in mitochondria of excitable cells, often leaving the cytosol iron-depleted, in some forms of neurodegeneration with brain accumulation (NBIA) or following mutations in genes associated with mitochondrial functions, such as ABCB7 in X-linked sideroblastic anemia with ataxia (XLSA/A) or the genes encoding frataxin in Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA). In anemia of chronic disease (ACD), iron is withheld by macrophages, while iron levels in extracellular fluids (e.g., plasma) are drastically reduced. One possible therapeutic approach to these diseases is iron chelation, which is known to effectively reduce multiorgan iron deposition in iron-overloaded patients. However, iron chelation is probably inappropriate for disorders associated with misdistribution of iron within selected tissues or cells. One chelator in clinical use for treating iron overload, deferiprone (DFP), has been identified as a reversed siderophore, that is, an agent with iron-relocating abilities in settings of regional iron accumulation. DFP was applied to a cell model of FRDA, a paradigm of a disorder etiologically associated with cellular iron misdistribution. The treatment reduced the mitochondrial levels of labile iron pools (LIP) that were increased by frataxin deficiency. DFP also conferred upon cells protection against oxidative damage and concomitantly mediated the restoration of various metabolic parameters, including aconitase activity. Administration of DFP to FRDA patients for 6 months resulted in selective and significant reduction in foci of brain iron accumulation (assessed by T2* MRI) and initial functional improvements, with only minor changes in net body iron stores. The prospects of drug-mediated iron relocation versus those of chelation are discussed in relation to other disorders involving iron misdistribution, such as ACD and XLSA/A.
A by-product of glutathione production in cancer cells may cause disruption in bone metabolic processesThis review is one of a selection of papers published in a Special Issue on Oxidative Stress in Health and Disease.
Authors: Seidlitz Eric P. , Sharma Mohit K. , Singh Gurmit
Published: April 2010

Bone is a frequent site for metastasis of breast and prostate cancers, often resulting in pathologic changes in bone metabolism and severe pain. The mechanisms involved are not well understood, but tumour cells may release factors that interfere with bone homeostasis. Several observations have led us to hypothesize that the functional disruptions in bone metastasis are the result of a biological process common to many cell types. The high metabolic activity characteristic of cancer cells often upregulates oxidative stress protection mechanisms such as the antioxidant molecule glutathione. In maintaining redox balance, this normal metabolic response may result in unintended pathologic effects in certain sensitive organ sites. Malignant glioma cells kill surrounding neurons in the brain specifically by secreting the amino acid glutamate, an obligatory waste product of glutathione synthesis. We suggest that glutamate release is a plausible mechanism that may account for the pathologic changes in bone metastasis, since bone, like brain, is also highly sensitive to glutamatergic disruption. This report reviews the available evidence to draw a mechanistic connection between tumour cell oxidative stress and the pathology seen in patients with bone metastasis.