bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human herpesvirus‐6 in patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: SURA RADHAKRISHNA , GAVRILOV BORIS , FLAMAND LOUIS , ABLASHI DHARAM , CARTUN RICHARD , COLOMBEL JEAN‐FRÉDÉRIC , VAN KRUININGEN HERBERT J.
Published: April 2010

Sura R, Gavrilov B, Flamand L, Ablashi D, Cartun R, Colombel J‐F, Van Kruiningen HJ. Human herpesvirus‐6 in patients with Crohn’s disease. APMIS 2010; 118: 394–400.

Human herpesvirus‐6 (HHV‐6) infections are usually asymptomatic reactivations in immunocompetent persons, but may be severe in immunocompromised individuals. Although primary HHV‐6 infection is mainly associated with roseola infantum, it has also been associated with gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and nausea in children. In this study, we investigated the potential role of HHV‐6 in Crohn’s disease (CD). Evidence of HHV‐6 infection in CD patients and controls was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). Fifty‐one tissue blocks from 23 CD patients and 20 tissue blocks from 20 controls were examined. Quantitativereal‐time PCR was used to assess HHV‐6 viral loads. IHC, PCR and qPCR indicated the presence of HHV‐6 in both CD patients and controls. Immunohistochemistry of tissues revealed an almost equal frequency and distribution of positive cells; however, non‐specific immunostaining confounded interpretation. HHV‐6 DNA was detected in 52% (12/23) of CD and 55% (11/20) of control patients by PCR and in 69.5% (16/23) of CD cases and 65% (13/20) of controls by qPCR. Mean viral load in intestinal tissues was similar in CD and controls (33.4 and 57.9 copies μg−1 DNA, respectively). Finding equal evidence of HHV‐6 in patients and controls by multiple methods suggests that this virus is ubiquitous and probably not a cause of CD.
The Psychological Consequences to Adolescents of Exposure to Gang Violence in the Community: An Integrated Review of the Literature
Authors: Kelly Sarah
Published: April 2010

PROBLEM: Gang violence affects many adolescents in the United States, and there has been an increase in violent crimes against adolescents in recent years.

METHOD: A literature review examined studies related to gang violence.

FINDINGS: Little research has focused on adolescents' exposure to gang violence and its effects on adolescents' mental health. Adolescents develop internalizing symptoms and externalizing behaviors after exposure to violence; but other factors influence adolescents' exposure and reaction to violence.

CONCLUSION: With the increase in gang violence over the years, more research is needed on gang violence and its effects on adolescents and their mental health.
The Impact of the Acculturation Process on Asian American Youth's Psychological Well‐Being
Authors: Lo Yafen
Published: April 2010

TOPIC: Acculturation process and Asian American youth's psychological well‐being.

PURPOSE: This paper provides an overview of acculturation, its correlates, and psychological well‐being of Asian American youth.

SOURCES USED: Interdisciplinary research related to acculturation, ethnic socialization, and minority youth's psychological outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Familial ethnic socialization is mediated by demographic variables, parents' attitudes, and parent–child relationships. Parent–child relationships during acculturation predicts Asian American youth's psychological outcomes. The key components of culturally sensitive health care for Asian American youth include evaluation of family relationships, congruence in parents' and youth's acculturation patterns, and sensitivity to implications of the model minority image.
The Impact of Maternal Childhood Abuse on Parenting and Infant Temperament
Authors: Lang Ariel J. , Gartstein Maria A. , Rodgers Carie S. , Lebeck Meredith M.
Published: April 2010

The impact of maternal history of maltreatment and psychopathology on mother–child relationship, parenting, and infant temperament was evaluated. Women completed self‐report measures addressing childhood trauma, psychopathology, infant–parent relationship, parenting, and infant temperament. Maternal physical abuse was associated with poorer mother–child interactions, increased vigilance, and difficulty recovering from distress among infants, whereas a history of emotional abuse was linked with less interactional dysfunction, lower levels of infant frustration, and more pleasure. Maternal depression was associated with infant temperament and attitudes about parenting. These findings suggest that maternal history of childhood abuse and psychopathology are important determinants of parenting and infant temperament.
Associations Between the Coping Self in Adolescence and Mental Health in Early Adulthood
Authors: Kinnunen Pirjo , Laukkanen Eila , Kiviniemi Vesa , Kylmä Jari
Published: April 2010

PROBLEM:  We have insufficient knowledge of the factors that should be considered when attempting to promote the mental health of adolescents, and whether the coping self during adolescence is indicative of mental health in later life.

METHODS:  Coping self data were collected in 1996 from 14‐year‐old pupils (N= 249) using part of the Offer Self‐Image Questionnaire. Mental health data were collected in 2006 from the same persons at the age of 24 years, using the Symptom Checklist‐90 instrument, with a response rate of 64.0% (n= 159).

FINDINGS:  Feelings of adolescents related to poor emotional health including fear, shame, guilt, and low trust were associated with depression in women and interpersonal symptoms in men in early adulthood. In addition, feelings of a lack of mastery in adolescence were associated with psychotic symptoms in women and interpersonal symptoms in men in early adulthood.

CONCLUSION:  Adolescents' perceptions of their emotional health and mastery are important factors to consider in attempts to promote mental health.
Prevalence of Sedentary Lifestyle in Individuals With High Blood Pressure
Authors: Guedes Nirla Gomes , De Oliveira Lopes Marcos Venícios , Moreira Rafaella Pessoa , Cavalcante Tahissa Frota , De Araujo Thelma Leite
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE.  To identify the prevalence of a sedentary lifestyle in individuals with high blood pressure.

METHODS.  This cross‐sectional study was conducted among 310 individuals with high blood pressure.

RESULTS.  The prevalence of the diagnosis of sedentary lifestyle was 60%. The more common defining characteristics were “lack of physical conditioning” and “lack of practice for physical exercises.” The nursing diagnosis was associated with age and presence of diabetes. Individuals who presented with a sedentary lifestyle related to lack of motivation were significantly younger.

CONCLUSIONS.  This study showed a high prevalence of “sedentary lifestyle” and its associations with age and the presence of diabetes.

IMPLICATIONS TO NURSING PRACTICE.  The acknowledgement of “sedentary lifestyle” contributes to the choice for nursing interventions that promote physical activity centered on the subject and the surroundings.
Use of Critical Thinking in the Diagnostic Process
Authors: Lunney Margaret
Published: April 2010

PURPOSE.  To demonstrate use of critical thinking in the diagnostic process in order to achieve accuracy of nursing diagnoses.

METHODS.  The 7 cognitive skills and 10 habits of mind identified as important for nursing in a Delphi study by Scheffer and Rubenfeld are applied to the diagnostic process using a published case study of a woman with heart failure.

FINDINGS.  Taking into account all data from the case study and using the concepts of critical thinking, two high‐accuracy nursing diagnoses were selected to guide nursing interventions.

CONCLUSIONS.  Because the specific types of critical thinking needed for accurate diagnosing are not known, nurses should develop all 17 of the cognitive skills and habits of mind so these thinking abilities are available when needed.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  The 17 critical thinking concepts should be combined with domain knowledge, e.g., nursing diagnoses, to think about thinking, which will improve critical thinking processes.
Irradiation Damage in Ti3(Si,Al)C2: a TEM Investigation
Authors: Le Flem Marion , Liu Xingmin , Doriot Sylvie , Cozzika Théodore , Monnet Isabelle
Published: April 2010

Ti3SiC2, belonging to MAX phases, is a potential candidate material, which could be incorporated in core components of future gas‐cooled fast nuclear reactors (GFR). Despite extensive work on mechanical behavior, corrosion resistance, or electrical properties, data concerning the evolution of Ti3SiC2 under irradiation are very limited. In this work, Ti3(Si,Al)C2 was irradiated at room temperature with 92 MeV Xe ions to induce irradiation damage. The samples were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) through front view and cross‐section observations, which allowed to follow microstructure changes from 0.02 dpa up to 6.67 dpa. Progressive atomic disorder versus dose was highlighted, leading to extinction of some diffraction spots (at 0.15 dpa) and then diffuse patterns (at 3 dpa). The ABABACAC periodicity related to 3‐1‐2 MAX phases was lost but the image fringes of basal plans could still be identified and no amorphous ring occurred. This means that Ti3(Si,Al)C2 was strongly affected by irradiation but did not turn to amorphous even at 6.67 dpa. This important result was correlated to previous conclusions from X‐ray diffraction and nanoindentation analysis and suggests the good behavior of Ti3(Si,Al)C2 under irradiation in the target temperature range assigned to GFR.
Ecological Responses of Frugivorous Bats to Seasonal Fluctuation in Fruit Availability in Amazonian Forests
Authors: Ramos Pereira Maria João , Marques João Tiago , Palmeirim Jorge M.
Published: April 2010

Lowland Amazon is climatically one of the least seasonal regions on the planet, but little is known about how this is reflected in ecological seasonality. The central objective of this study was to determine whether seasonal fluctuations in the availability of fruit resources in Neotropical forests are sufficiently marked to affect the ecology and physiology of frugivorous bats. Seasonal variations in the overall bat abundance and in the captures, body condition, and reproductive activity of the two most abundant species,Carollia perspicillataandArtibeus planirostris, were studied within a region of central Brazilian Amazonia dominated by a mosaic of nonflooded (terra firme) and seasonally flooded forests (várzeaandigapó). Concurrent seasonal changes in fruit availability were measured. The abundance of fruits was markedly seasonal, with far fewer resources available during the low‐water season. There was a positive correlation between fruit and bat abundance. Overall, bats did not increase the consumption of arthropods during the period of fruit shortage. InA. planirostris, the body condition declined when fruits were scarcer. In bothC. perspicillataandA. planirostris, foraging and reproductive activity were positively correlated with fruit availability. Consequently, the results suggest that resource seasonality is sufficiently marked to affect frugivorous bats and force them to make important eco‐physiological adjustments.
Submergence, Persistence and Identity: Generations of German Origin in the Barossa and Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Authors: BURNLEY IAN
Published: April 2010

This paper examines settlers of German ancestry and their cultural resilience in the Barossa Valley, Light and Adelaide Hills districts of South Australia. After five to seven generations of local settlement, cultural persistence has resulted from: the strong religious reasons for the original migration; early congregational exclusivity; maintenance of German as the liturgical language for over 80 years; and rural community self‐sufficiency. The excoriating public and State Government rejection of integration during World War One reinforced their cultural assertion. This was manifested in religion, family and place identity, musical events, traditional and hybrid cuisines and festivals, and has continued despite counter‐urbanisation into these German‐settled areas. Therefore the landscape and community consequences of persistence, resistance and reinvention have survived far longer than most inter‐generational models of socio‐cultural change would otherwise have predicted.
Challenges in developing an integrated catchment management model
Authors: Lerner David N. , Kumar Vikas , Holzkämper Annelie , Surridge Benjamin W. J. , Harris Bob
Published: April 2010

Directives and policies increasingly call for more integrated management of land and water. Frameworks such as integrated catchment management may address these calls, and yet their implementation requires decisions to be taken under conditions of extreme complexity and uncertainty. This paper summarises a participatory framework through which decision‐makers, experts and system modellers can collaboratively develop an integrated model to support such decisions. A feasibility study showed the potential of the framework. An operational version of the model, able to analyse the effects of 50 management options on 20 indicators, is estimated to require in the order of 225 man‐months from system modellers, alongside substantial inputs from stakeholders. The significant technical challenges confronting such an exercise may be overshadowed by the institutional challenges, including the fundamental question of whether organisations are truly committed. However, the reward for overcoming such challenges is the opportunity to achieve genuine improvements in the social, economic and environmental quality of our catchments.
Drivers of Liking for Yogurt Drinks with Prebiotics and Probiotics
Authors: Allgeyer L.C. , Miller M.J. , Lee S.‐Y.
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT:  Several studies have addressed the sensory properties of yogurt. However, as the market for yogurt continues to expand and new varieties of yogurt with novel ingredients emerge, additional sensory tests are needed to ensure the quality of the products. Three selected prebiotics, soluble corn fiber, polydextrose, and chicory inulin, were each added at an excellent source of fiber (5 g fiber/serving) or a good fiber source (2.5 g fiber/serving) levels into a yogurt drink base. Three additional yogurt drinks contained 5 g of each of the separate prebiotics along with a mixture of probiotics (Bifidobacterium lactis Bb‐12 and Lactobacillus acidophilus LA‐5). A control sample with no prebiotics or probiotics was also included in the experimental design. Yogurt drinks were evaluated by 110 consumers for overall acceptance, acceptance of aroma, appearance, taste, and texture, and purchase intent. Demographic information pertaining to consumer knowledge of prebiotics and probiotics was collected. Consumer data were correlated with previously obtained descriptive analysis data to identify drivers of liking. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA), Fisher's least significant difference (LSD), cluster analysis, internal preference mapping, and external preference mapping. Total variance explained by the internal and external preference maps were 32.2% and 64.6%, respectively, which showed higher levels of the prebiotics with probiotics drove consumer liking compared to lower levels without probiotics. In terms of ingredients added, chicory inulin and polydextrose were preferred over soluble corn fiber. Yogurt drinks with these prebiotics included and probiotics were characterized by a medium level of sweetness and high viscosity. Development of new prebiotic and probiotic containing drinkable yogurts should strive for a medium level of sweetness and high viscosity for maximum consumer acceptance.
Polyphenol‐Rich Beverages Enhance Zinc Uptake and Metallothionein Expression in Caco‐2 Cells
Authors: Sreenivasulu Kilari , Raghu Pullakhandam , Nair K. Madhavan
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT:  The effect of red wine (RW), red grape juice (RGJ), green tea (GT), and representative polyphenols on Caco‐2 cell 65Zn uptake was explored. RW, RGJ, and GT enhanced the uptake of zinc from rice matrix. Fractionation of RW revealed that enhancing activity of zinc uptake was exclusively resided in the polyphenol fraction. Among the polyphenols tested, only tannic acid and quercitin stimulated the uptake of zinc while others did not influence the uptake. In tune with these results, only tannic acid and quercitin competed with zinquin (a zinc selective fluorophore) for zinc in vitro. Although all the polyphenols tested appear to enhance the expression of metallothionein (MT), the induction was higher with tannic acid, quercitin, and RW extract. Furthermore, phytic acid abrogated the tannic acid‐induced MT expression. These results suggest that polyphenol‐rich beverages, tannic acid, and quercitin bind and stimulate the zinc uptake and MT expression in Caco‐2 cells.
Supercritical Fluid Chromatography of Myrosinase Reaction Products in Ground Yellow Mustard Seed Oil
Authors: Choubdar Niloufar , Li Shuliu , Holley Richard A.
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT:  Escherichia coli O157:H7 can survive the dry fermented sausage manufacturing process. Compounds generated by enzymatic hydrolysis of glucosinolates present in ground mustard have shown potential antibacterial properties against E. coli O157:H7. In the present study, supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) was used to investigate degradation products of 4‐hydroxybenzyl glucosinolate (sinalbin), the major glucosinolate present in yellow mustard seed. Using SFC the concentration of the reactive component, 4‐hydroxybenzyl isothiocyanate (PHBITC) was measured during the hydrolysis of sinalbin with myrosinase while imposing the temperature and pH regimen used for the fermentation phase of dry fermented sausage production. The PHBITC concentration grew to a maximum after 7 h and decreased rapidly. The concentration of 4‐hydroxybenzyl alcohol increased rapidly to reach a maximum at 31 h and stayed at that level. The concentration of 4‐hydroxybenzyl cyanate increased up to 24 h, then decreased to 65% of its maximum, and stayed constant. The stability of 4‐hydroxybenzyl isothiocyanate in the presence of maltodextrin in this system was investigated. It was concluded that the major PHBITC loss in the mixture of the oil with maltodextrin occurred within the first 4 d of its storage.

Practical Application: During the work 4‐hydroxybenzyl isothiocyanate (PHBITC) was measured during the hydrolysis of sinalbin with myrosinase while imposing the temperature and pH regimen used for the fermentation phase of dry fermented sausage production. The results on PHBITC stability in maltodextrin presented provide precautionary information on the limited ability of this material to afford stability of PHBITC expected.
Therapist Personal Agency: A Model for Examining the Training Context
Authors: Mutchler Matthew , Anderson Stephen
Published: April 2010

This study reviews the creation and testing of a model of Therapist Personal Agency during MFT training. A model including self‐efficacy, trainee developmental level, supervisor working alliance, family of origin relationships, and psychological states was supported by data collected from a national sample of MFT students. The model supported by the data was consistent with much of the previous research regarding the correlates of therapist self‐efficacy. Furthermore, the model accounted for 20% of the variance in therapist performance as measured by therapist reports of the working alliance. The results also highlighted the importance of attending to the relationships, interactions, and experiences that take place within the training environment and secondly, the added value that may accrue from focusing on the trainee’s extended network of family relationships. A brief case example serves to illustrate the importance of tending to Therapist Personal Agency. In sum, this study provides preliminary support for holistic training methods that focus upon the whole person of the therapist.
Attitudes and Beliefs of Marriage and Family Therapists Regarding Psychotropic Drugs and Therapy
Authors: Springer Paul R. , Harris Steven M.
Published: April 2010

Clinical members of AAMFT were solicited by means of a randomized multi‐staged clustering technique to identify their attitudes and beliefs regarding psychotropic drugs. All participants were blind to the overall purpose of the study (n = 322) and were directed to read a clinical vignette and then identify what course of action they would take with the client. They were then asked to complete a small questionnaire regarding their attitudes and beliefs regarding psychotropic drugs. Results of the study showed that 35.7% of the clinicians identified medication and a medication referral as a viable treatment option they might pursue with a client meeting criteria for major depressive episode. Clinicians who reported having a dedicated university class (17.2%) in psychopharmacology were more likely to identify medication referral as a treatment option. However, 80% of the AAMFT clinicians we surveyed reported that they were not adequately trained about psychotropic medications in their graduate programs. Further implications regarding diagnostic practices are also discussed, as 26% of clinicians failed to explicitly diagnose the client in the case vignette with depression.
Nestedness of insect assemblages on small Bahamian islands: importance of spatial processes
Authors: MURAKAMI MASASHI , HIRAO TOSHIHIDE
Published: April 2010

Abstract.  1. Ecological assemblages frequently show nestedness patterns of species distribution. Despite the common occurrence, the causality for nestedness patterns remains unclear. The effects of environmental and spatial factors on the patterns of insect species distributions were examined on 28 small islands in central Exuma, Bahamas.

2. Flying insects on each island were surveyed by Malaise traps, island area and vegetation height being used as environmental factors, and the degree of island isolation as a spatial factor. Body and relative wing length, and abundance of insect species were also considered as species traits which, together with environmental and spatial factors, determine insect distributions.

3. Island isolation was determined from distance to the mainland, greatest distance in a stepping‐stone pathway, distance to the nearest island, and the island area within 250, 500 and 1000 m of each island’s perimeter.

4. The pattern of island‐insect nestedness was examined for the overall insect assemblage and those of five dominant insect orders on the islands. The order of island ranking in the nested matrix was tested relative to area, isolation and vegetation height, the rank order of insect species then being examined relative to body and wing length, and abundance of species.

5. Significant nestedness was found in all assemblages. Significant contributions of environmental factors were found in Diptera and Hemiptera assemblages, whereas relatively large contributions of spatial factors were found in Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera assemblages. These results illustrated the need to include spatial factors in analyses on the assembly of insular insect assemblages.
The airway epithelium as regulator of inflammation patterns in asthma
Authors: Erjefält Jonas Sten
Published: April 2010

Introduction:  Asthma is a complex, heterogeneous and mutifactorial disease and represents a major health problem in Westernised countries. The airway epithelium, with its direct physical contact with luminal triggers, has a major role in determining the nature of inflammation that develops in asthmatic airways.

Objective:  The present review aims to provide a brief overview of the numerous ways the airway epithelium can affect and influence the histopathological picture in asthma.

Results and Conclusion:  The ways the epithelium aggravates inflammation range from acute responses to luminal triggers such as allergens and infections to the multipathogenic events occurring as a consequence of repeated epithelial damage–repair responses. The airway epithelium also facilitates the selective migration of leukocytes into the airway lumen, a process that is important in regulating inflammatory cell homeostasis. The fact that only some of the important leukocyte subtypes participate in this process cause translational problems and difficulties in the interpretation of luminal samples. To further reveal the nature of the multifaceted involvement of the airway epithelium in inflamed asthmatic airways emerges as a promising goal for identifying new therapeutic strategies.

Please cite this paper as: Erjefält JS. The airway epithelium as regulator of inflammation patterns in asthma. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 9–14.
The eosinophil and airway remodelling in asthma
Authors: Venge Per
Published: April 2010

Objectives:  Eosinophils are common findings cells in allergic asthma as is sub‐base membrane thickening of the airways. The objective of this review was to summarise some recent findings linking the activities of eosinophils to airways remodelling.

Data Source and Study Selection:  The study used a review of current literature with emphasis on our own recent findings.

Results:  Eosinophils are found at increased numbers in asthma and more so in allergic as compared with non‐allergic asthma. A link has been found in several clinical studies on allergic asthmatics, but not in studies on non‐allergic asthma, between the presence of eosinophils and signs of airways remodelling. The eosinophil contains and secretes several pro‐fibrogenic molecules such as eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β). Genetic studies on subjects developing liver fibrosis as a consequence of Schistosoma mansoni infection show close relationships to ECP genotypes.

Conclusion:  Several clinical and experimental studies indicate that eosinophils contribute to airways remodelling not only through their secretion of cationic proteins such as ECP and cytokines such as TGF‐β1, but also through interactions with mast cells and epithelial cells.

Please cite this paper as: Venge P. The eosinophil and airway remodelling in asthma. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 15–19.
Remodeling in asthma and COPD – differences and similarities
Authors: Sköld C. Magnus
Published: April 2010

Background:  Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are both inflammatory disorders. Diagnosis of these diseases is based upon limitation of expiratory airflow. The pathophysiological correlates to this impaired lung function are complex but they are associated with the development of structural changes in the airways and lung parenchyma. These remodeling processes differ between the two diseases. In asthma, airways obstruction is predominately located in the large airways, although recent studies indicate that inflammation and structural changes also is present in other compartments of the lungs. In COPD, remodeling of the small airways and lung parenchyma are the main correlates to the limitation of expiratory airflow. However, both asthma and COPD are heterogeneous disorders including various phenotypes and there is a considerable overlap between the two diseases.

Methods and Results:  In the present review, airway remodeling in asthma and COPD will be discussed in three different compartments of the airways: large airways, small airways and lung parenchyma. Different inflammatory cells will be mentioned, as well as markers of remodeling.

Conclusion:  In COPD and severe asthma, current anti‐inflammatory pharmacotherapy does not restore lung function impairment fully. It is therefore recognized that research aiming to explore mechanisms of airway remodeling should be encouraged.

Please cite this paper as: Sköld CM. Remodeling in asthma and COPD – differences and similarities. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 20–27.
The importance of airway remodelling in the natural course of asthma
Authors: Janson Christer
Published: April 2010

Introduction:  Asthma is associated with airflow limitation and increased decline in lung function. The underlying mechanism for this was probably that persisting inflammation leads to remodelling of the airways.

Objectives:  To review the importance of different factors which are related to airflow limitation and lung function decline in asthma.

Methods:  Case report and literature review.

Results:  Asthma severity, smoking, bronchial hyperresponsiveness and eosinophil inflammation were the variables that were most convincingly related to decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) in asthma. Treatment with inhaled corticosteroids probably decreased the rate of FEV1 decline, although this was more uncertain because of the lack of randomised double blind studies that show such an effect. Progress in the field of the genetics of asthma may, in the near future, elucidate the role of gene–environment interaction in lung function decline in asthma.

Conclusion:  Regular treatment with inhaled corticosteroids may partly have a beneficial effect on airway remodelling in asthma. Improved understanding of the processes leading to airway remodelling is, however, important in order to prevent a large number of asthmatics from developing irreversible airflow obstruction.

Please cite this paper as: Janson C. The importance of airway remodelling in the natural course of asthma. Clin Respir J 2010; 4 (Suppl. 1): 28–34.
Measurement of spleen volume is useful for distinguishing between simple steatosis and early‐stage non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Suzuki Kaori , Kirikoshi Hiroyuki , Yoneda Masato , Mawatari Hironori , Fujita Koji , Nozaki Yuichi , Takahashi Hirokazu , Abe Yasunobu , Inamori Masahiko , Shimamura Takeshi , Kobayashi Noritoshi , Kubota Kensuke , Saito Satoru , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: April 2010

Aim: Although non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now a common cause of chronic liver disease, discriminating between simple steatosis and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), especially early‐stage NASH, remains difficult. We investigated the clinical usefulness of measuring the spleen volume as a marker of early‐stage NASH.

Methods: We evaluated computed tomography (CT) images obtained in 84 patients with histologically diagnosed NAFLD (22 with simple steatosis, 62 with NASH with mild fibrosis [stages 1–2]). We defined the data obtained by the following formula as a spleen‐body index (SBI): SBI = maximal CT axial section area of the spleen (cm2)/body surface area (BSA) (cm2) × 104. We compared the SBI between patients with simple steatosis and those with NASH with mild fibrosis.

Results: The mean SBI of the simple steatosis group was 15.8 ± 3.9, while that of the NASH with mild fibrosis group was 18.7 ± 5.7. This difference between the two groups was significant (P = 0.0314). A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the SBI was significantly correlated with the discrimination of simple steatosis and NASH with mild fibrosis. The area under the receiver–operator curve was 0.661 for distinguishing between simple steatosis and NASH with mild fibrosis (P = 0.026, 95% confidence interval = 0.532–0.789).

Conclusion: Spleen enlargement may be a distinct feature of NASH, especially early‐stage NASH. SBI might be a non‐invasive and simple method of differentiating NASH and simple steatosis.
Efficacy of ezetimibe for the treatment of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis: An open‐label, pilot study
Authors: Yoneda Masato , Fujita Koji , Nozaki Yuichi , Endo Hiroki , Takahashi Hirokazu , Hosono Kunihiro , Suzuki Kaori , Mawatari Hironori , Kirikoshi Hiroyuki , Inamori Masahiko , Saito Satoru , Iwasaki Tomoyuki , Terauchi Yasuo , Kubota Kensuke , Maeyama Shiro , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: April 2010

Aim: Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is considered a hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. However, effective drug therapy for NASH has not been established yet. In the present study, we evaluated the efficacy of 6 months of ezetimibe treatment for NASH patients with dyslipidemia for the comparison of improvement of the clinical parameters and histological alterations.

Methods: We prospectively evaluated 10 consecutive NASH patients with dyslipidemia who agreed to participate in this study. The patients were given ezetimibe (10 mg/day) for 6 months, and clinical parameters and histological alterations were comparatively evaluated before and after treatment. All the patients were given standard calorie diet (30 kcal/kg per day, carbohydrate 50–60%, fat 20–30%, protein 15–20%) and exercise counseling from 3 months before the ezetimibe treatment.

Results: The serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and type IV collagen 7 s levels were significantly improved by the treatment with ezetimibe for 6 months. In histological observations, follow‐up liver biopsies revealed that the NAS score and steatosis grade were also significantly improved. The fibrosis stage did not change significantly, but six of the 10 patients exhibited an improvement in their fibrosis stage.

Conclusion: Major clinical parameters and histological observations were significantly improved by the treatment with ezetimibe. Our pilot study demonstrated the efficacy of ezetimibe for drug therapy of NASH and may lead to a large‐scale clinical trial in the future.
Crafting Museum Experiences in Light of Research on Learning: Implications of the National Research Council’s Report on Informal Science Education
Authors: Shouse Andrew , Lewenstein Bruce V. , Feder Michael , Bell Philip
Published: April 2010

Abstract  In this article, the editors of the recent National Research Council report Learning Science in Informal Environments: People, Places, and Pursuits discuss the report’s implications for museum professionals. The report is a synthesis of some 2,000 studies and evaluations of learning in non‐school settings such as museums. Here we focus on three specific topics discussed in the full report, which we see as particularly important for museum professionals. These are: a framework for developing and studying science learning experiences; cultural diversity as an integral resource for learning; and assessment of learning. Many museums include “learning” among their goals and many researchers concern themselves with how museums and other settings can be organized to support learning. Yet this wealth of research is rarely brought into focus and offered as guidance to the museum community.
The Challenges of Understanding Science Learning in Informal Environments
Authors: Kisiel James , Anderson David
Published: April 2010

Abstract  The National Research Council report Learning Science in Informal Environments provides a much‐needed synthesis of what research says about informal learning. LSIE makes key observations about science learning and emphasizes the challenges faced in trying to understand and document those complex processes. Yet assumptions about how—and under what conditions—people learn science are not necessarily universal constructs. Such assumptions are driven by the theoretical perspectives of the researchers, as well as the culture of the learners themselves. The limited scope of the volume prohibits it from fully addressing such cultural and historical contexts, and the subsequent implications for methodological approaches. Nevertheless, the report is an important starting point for informing educators, researchers, and policy‐makers who work with or within informal science institutions.
Media and the Museum: A Response to Learning Science in Informal Environments
Authors: Dribin Nancy Ross , Rickhoff Angelique
Published: April 2010

Abstract  Digital environments are one of the newest methods of resource‐ and program‐creation to be added to the museum toolkit, and are increasingly employed by museums across all fields to support learning. Unfortunately, this category is also one of the least‐fleshed‐out components in the Learning Science in Informal Environments (LSIE) chapter devoted to media. The report does not take into account the increasingly interwoven nature of media resources, particularly those found in digital environments. It is imperative that museums both become familiar with the breadth of research that is available related to digital environments and that they continue to specifically build an understanding of how this works in a museum setting.
A Bihormonal Closed-Loop Artificial Pancreas for Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: El-Khatib Firas H. , Russell Steven J. , Nathan David M. , Sutherlin Robert G. , Damiano Edward R.
Published: April 2010

An algorithm continuously delivers appropriate insulin and glucagon doses to diabetic patients, maintaining their blood glucose at near-normal values, even after high-carbohydrate meals.
Resisting Insulin Is Futile; It Will Only Cause Stress
Authors: Buettner Christoph
Published: April 2010

Activation of a protein in the insulin signaling pathway reduces the deleterious effects of the cellular stress that accompanies diabetes and obesity.
Neoglaciation in the southern Coast Mountains of British Columbia: chronology prior to the late Neoglacial maximum
Authors: Ryder J. M. , Thomson B.
Published: April 2010

Moraine stratigraphy and morphology, radiocarbon dates from Klinaklini, Franklin, Tiedemann, Gilbert, and Bridge glaciers, and related information from elsewhere in the Coast Mountains are used to construct a chronology for glacier fluctuations. The Garibaldi phase of glacier expansion, 6000–5000 14C years BP, at the end of the early Holocene xerothermic interval, is indicated by overridden tree stumps. The mid-Neoglacial Tiedemann advance, 3300–1900 14C years BP, is represented by moraines, till, and meltwater sediments at three glaciers, but only Tiedemann Glacier attained its greatest Holocene extent at this time. Late Neoglacial expansion commenced before 900 14C years BP and continued without notable interruption until glaciers achieved their maximum post-Pleistocene expansion during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Evidence for the Garibaldi and Tiedemann events is scarce within the Coast Mountains because of the more extensive late Neoglacial advance. However, correlative advances have been recognized in adjacent mountains within British Columbia, Washington, and Alaska.
Paleomagnetism of the Katherine Group in the Mackenzie Mountains: implications for post-Grenville (Hadrynian) apparent polar wander
Authors: Park John K. , Aitken James D.
Published: April 2010

Paleomagnetic poles from the Upper Proterozoic Mackenzie Mountains supergroup (MMs) of northwestern Canada define an apparent polar wander path lying to the west of the Grenville Loop. This path is suggested from an analysis of the quartzitic Katherine Group, whose probable primary pole lies at the beginning of the sequence, near the younger end of the Grenville Track (0.88 Ga). The end of the apparent polar wander (APW) sequence may be defined by a primary pole from sills intruding the Tsezotene Formation below the Katherine. We relate the sills, dated at about 0.77 Ga, to the rifting event that led to "Copper cycle" and Rapitan sediments above the MMs, and we suggest that the exposed part of the MMs has an age between 0.88 and 0.77 Ga. The APW path is apparently not affected by rotations: pole evidence indicates little if any relative rotation between thrust sheets of the fold belt or between the fold belt and the craton.Paleomagnetic analysis of the Katherine Group data, obtained by alternating field, thermal, and chemical methods, revealed three magnetizations. The probable primary remanence, KA, carried by mainly detrital hematite grains, has a direction of D, I = 267°, +21 °(N = 13 specimens, k = 33, α95 = 7°) and a pole at 9°N, 210°W (δp, δm = 4°, 8°). A secondary component, KB, carried by hematite pigment, has a direction of D, I = 258°, +42 °(N = 4 sites, k = 326, α95 = 5°) and a pole at 17°N, 196°W (δp, δm = 4°, 6°). It documents further a pervasive overprint magnetization found in most MMs rocks. A similar hematite magnetization is probably primary in the overlying Copper cycle rocks. The youngest component, KC, is found partly in a second, probably largely post-folding pigment phase (post-Late Cretaceous or Paleocene) and has a direction of D, I = 007°, +84 °(N = 9 sites, k = 77, α95 = 6°) and a pole at 77°N, 122°W (δp, δm = 11°, 12°).
Malluviospongia, a new Devonian heteractinid sponge from the Bird Fiord Formation of southwestern Ellesmere Island, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Rigby J. Keith , Goodbody Q. H.
Published: April 2010

The new heteractinid calcareous sponge Maluviospongia densa occurs at two levels in the middle part of the Lower to Middle Devonian Bird Fiord Formation near Goose Fiord and Baad Fiord in southwestern Ellesmere Island. These occurrences further document that Canada was a principal center of heteractinid evolution during the early and middle Paleozoic. The small, stalked to bowl-shaped sponges have canaled skeletons of irregularly oriented, though size-ranked, octactines that are enlarged to lumpy, grotesque elements in the inner endosomal part of the wall.
The Double Mer Formation and the Lake Melville rift system, eastern Labrador
Authors: Gower Charles F. , Erdmer Philippe , Wardle Richard J.
Published: April 2010

The Double Mer Formation is a sequence of redbed arkosic sandstone, conglomerate, siltstone, and shale in the Grenville Province of eastern Labrador. The formation is closely associated with a rift system extending inland for at least 300 km from the Labrador coast. Substantial thicknesses of strata of Double Mer Formation are confined to two basins, the Lake Melville graben and the Double Mer half graben. Strata correlated with the Double Mer Formation are found elsewhere in southeast Labrador; one isolated outcrop occurs within the Sandwich Bay graben, a separate, smaller basin 100 km to the southeast that trends parallel to the Lake Melville graben.The only definite age constraint on the Double Mer Formation is that it postdates Grenvillian deformation. Previously, the formation was assigned a latest Precambrian to Early Cambrian age based on lithological similarity with the Lower Cambrian Bradore Formation of the southeast coast of Labrador. On the basis of a structural model proposed here that suggests a link between graben configuration and latest Precambrian – Early Cambrian mafic dike trends, we concur with this viewpoint. The Double Mer Formation thus preserves the basin fill presumed to have accompanied graben formation, which, together with emplacement of mafic dikes and anorogenic plutons, documents latest Precambrian to Early Cambrian crustal extension that eventually led to the opening of the Iapetus Ocean.
Phylogenetic relationships of captorhinomorph reptiles
Authors: Heaton M. J. , Reisz R. R.
Published: April 2010

The Captorhinomorpha consists of two families, the Captorhinidae and the Protorothyrididae. The distribution of morphological character states of the skeleton permits reevaluation of currently accepted theories of the relationships of captorhinomorph reptiles. Identification of characters states that are primitive for reptiles (amniotes) has been made through outgroup comparison. The Captorhinidae, Protorothyrididae, and Diapsida form a natural group that share such derived characters as reduced supratemporal, reduced tabular, narrow supraoccipital with anteriorly directed crista alaris, loss of supratemporal–postorbital contact, loss of opisthotic–tabular contact, and loss of the medial centralia pedis. These shared derived character states indicate that captorhinomorphs are not the sister taxon of all other reptiles but are advanced relative to pelycosaurs, pareiasaurs, and procolophonids. Protorothyridids share with diapsids such derived characters as short postorbital region of the skull, keeled anterior presacral pleurocentra, slender limbs, and long, slender feet. This distribution of character states indicates that protorothyridids are more closely related to diapsids than either of these taxa is to captorhinids.The morphological pattern of small, lightly built, agile insectivores, represented by protorothyridids and early diapsids, is no longer considered to be the primitive amniote condition. Available evidence indicates that the most primitive amniote adaptation was, instead, that of a small, relatively slow carnivore that probably fed on primitive, terrestrial annelids and arthropods.
The extinct short-faced skunk Brachyprotoma obtusata (Mammalia, Carnivora): first records for Canada and Beringia
Authors: Youngman Phillip M.
Published: April 2010

A mandible of the extinct short-faced skunk (Brachyprotoma obtusata) and a tooth, provisionally assigned to this species, are reported for the first time from the Pleistocene of northern Yukon Territory, Canada.
Glauconite nodules in a Nampa pedon from Alberta
Authors: McKeague J. A. , Schuppli P. A. , Kodama H.
Published: April 2010

Nodules 0.1–0.7 mm in diameter seen in thin sections of the C horizon of a soil from the Peace River area of Alberta were analyzed. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXRA) showed their composition (%) to be approximately MgO, 3; Al2O3, 22; SiO2, 52; K2O, 4; CaO, 2; Fe2O3, 10. X-ray analysis by Gandolfi camera showed strong glauconite lines and weak lines for quartz and kaolinite. The presence of these relatively large glauconite nodules in an otherwise fine-grained material is incompatible with its presumed lacustrine origin. Presumably, the glauconite nodules were inherited from the Smoky River shale, and the C horizon material may be residual.
Role of the cytoskeleton in Cd2+-induced death of mouse mesangial cellsThis article is one of a selection of papers published in a Special Issue on Oxidative Stress in Health and Disease.
Authors: Liu Ying , Templeton Douglas M.
Published: April 2010

Cadmium induces apoptotic cell death in mouse mesangial cells that is in part dependent on reactive oxygen species (ROS). Cadmium also activates multiple kinases in these cells, including the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMK-II) and p38 kinase, and also leads to disruption of the filamentous actin cytoskeleton. We investigated the role of the cytoskeleton in Cd2+-induced cell death. Cell viability was decreased by Cd2+and two types of apoptotic death, defined by flow cytometry, were increased. Disruption of actin filaments with cytochalasin D was partially protective, whereas stabilization of the cytoskeleton with jasplakinolide was without effect, indicating that cytoskeletal disruption contributes to, but is not necessary for, induction of apoptosis. Inhibition of CaMK-II and p38 kinase, mitochondrial stabilization with cyclosporine A, and the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine all protected against apoptosis and prevented disruption of the cytoskeleton. Cytochalasin D decreased Cd2+-dependent ROS production, reduced the decline in mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreased phosphorylation of p38 kinase. We conclude that Cd2+-dependent actin disruption is a downstream event facilitating apoptotic death. Cadmium-dependent cell death involves actin-dependent mitochondrial changes, ROS production, and p38 activation.