bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Invisible Learning Ceiling: Informal Learning Among Preschool Teachers and Assistants in a Norwegian Kindergarten
Authors: Schei Vidar , Nerbø Ida
Published: June 2015

Individuals and society invest ever‐increasing resources in formal educational programs. However, informal workplace learning may be an effective alternative source for enhancing competencies, but, unfortunately, our knowledge about informal learning is still limited. We extend the research on informal learning to the unexplored occupational group of kindergarten employees. Our research questions pertain to identifying activities that lead to informal learning, to conditions that promote or prevent such learning, and to differences between two groups of employees (preschool teachers and assistants). We used a qualitative case‐study approach and conducted semistructured, in‐depth interviews in a Norwegian kindergarten. The data indicated that the participants were involved in a variety of learning activities. However, preschool teachers and assistants differed regarding the conditions for informal learning, with assistants perceiving greater barriers to learning in the workplace. We argue that the assistants are easily trapped in situations in which further learning is difficult, and, paradoxically, those employees with the lowest formal education also seem to be disfavored with regard to informal learning. Clever organization of the work and careful leadership might be key actions to break through this invisible learning ceiling.
IL‐27 and TGFβ mediated expansion of Th1 and adaptive regulatory T cells expressing IL‐10 correlates with bacterial burden and disease severity in pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Kumar Nathella P. , Moideen Kadar , Banurekha Vaithilingam V. , Nair Dina , Sridhar Rathinam , Nutman Thomas B. , Babu Subash
Published: June 2015

CD4+ T cell expression of IL‐10 is an important mechanism controlling immunity to tuberculosis (TB). To identify the CD4+ T cell subsets producing IL‐10 in human TB, we enumerated the frequencies of IL‐10 expressing CD4+ T cell subsets following TB—antigen stimulation of cells from individuals with pulmonary (PTB) and latent TB (LTB). We first demonstrate that TB antigens induce an expansion of IL‐10 expressing Th1 (IL‐10+, IFNγ+, T‐bet+), Th2 (IL‐10+, IL‐4+, GATA‐3+), Th9 (IL‐10+, IL‐9+, IL‐4−), Th17 (IL‐10+, IL‐17+, IFNγ−), and natural and adaptive regulatory T cells [nTregs; IL‐10+, CD4+, CD25+, Foxp3+ and aTregs; IL‐10 single+, CD4+, CD25−, Foxp3−] in PTB and LTB individuals, with frequencies being significantly higher in the former. However, only Th1 cells and adaptive Tregs expressing IL‐10 exhibit a positive relationship with bacterial burdens and extent of disease in PTB. Finally, we show that IL‐27 and TGFβ play an important role in the regulation of IL‐10+ Th cell subsets. Thus, active PTB is characterized by an IL‐27 and TGFβ mediated expansion of IL‐10 expressing CD4+ T cell subsets, with IL‐10+ Th1 and IL‐10+ aTreg cells playing a potentially pivotal role in the pathogenesis of active disease.
Sequential use of vinorelbine followed by gefitinib enhances the antitumor effect in NSCLC cell lines poorly responsive to reversible EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Dal Bello M.G. , Alama A. , Barletta G. , Coco S. , Truini A. , Vanni I. , Boccardo S. , Genova C. , Rijavec E. , Biello F. , Bottoni G. , Sambuceti G. , Grossi F.
Published: June 2015

Preclinical studies have suggested that combining cytotoxic agents with epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) to treat EGFR‐mutated tumors may increase their inhibitory effect depending on the order of drug administration. The antitumor efficacy of different treatment sequences using vinorelbine (VNB) and gefitinib (GEF) was investigated both in vitro and in vivo in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines with the rationale of potentially translating these findings into the clinical setting. The EGFR‐wild‐type A549 and the EGFR‐mutated (exon 21 L858R/exon 20 T790M) H1975 cell lines were treated as follows: GEF followed by VNB, VNB followed by GEF and the two drugs applied individually or concurrently. Results in vitro demonstrated that the sequence of VNB followed by GEF was significantly more active than single‐agent treatments. The expression of activated EGFR and its downstream pathway genes indicated that the increased cytotoxic effect of the VNB and GEF treatment sequence was accompanied by inhibition of EGFR, AKT and ERK1/2. Moreover, the increased inhibition of tumor growth after treatment with VNB followed by GEF was also confirmed in CD1‐nude mice that were xenotransplanted with H1975 cells (p < 0.0001). This effect was paralleled by a corresponding decrease in cancer glucose consumption, as assessed by micro‐positron emission tomography scans (p < 0.05). These preclinical findings in NSCLC cell lines, which are poorly responsive to EGFR‐TKIs, demonstrated that the sequential treatment of VNB followed by GEF induced a significant antitumor effect, which supports the translation of this treatment schedule into a clinical setting.
Effect of Intrinsic ZnO Sputtering Parameters on the Cell Efficiency of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Kkotnim , Son Yu‐Seung , Jeong Jeung‐hyun
Published: June 2015

We investigated the effect of adding oxygen (O2) gas to argon (Ar) gas and varying the sputter target power during intrinsic ZnO sputtering on the photovoltaic performance of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells. Sputtering powers of 50, 100, 150 W were used in conjunction with an O2 fraction of 0 % or 2 % in the sputtering gas. Both increasing the power and adding oxygen improved the photovoltaic conversion efficiency, although the effect of the latter was more pronounced. The results showed that the open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current density, and fill factor were all improved, and the series resistance was reduced. Electroluminescence spectroscopy and electron‐beam‐induced current analysis showed that adding oxygen and increasing the power not only improved the CdS/CIGS junction properties, but also the CIGS bulk properties. The current‐voltage characteristics at low temperature indicated that adding oxygen and increasing the power facilitated local secondary diode formation around the CIGS surface. It was also revealed that the sodium doping concentration was enhanced by oxygen addition and increased power, with this enhancement being larger for the former. The improvements in the CdS/CIGS junction and CIGS bulk properties were therefore tentatively attributed to an enhancement of the Na doping level.
Association of Membrane/Lipid Rafts With the Platelet Cytoskeleton and the Caveolin PY14: Participation in the Adhesion Process
Authors: Cerecedo Doris , Martínez‐Vieyra Ivette , Maldonado‐García Deneb , Hernández‐González Enrique , Winder Steve J.
Published: June 2015

Platelets are the most prominent elements of blood tissue involved in hemostasis at sites of blood vessel injury. Platelet cytoskeleton is responsible for their shape modifications observed during activation and adhesion to the substratum; therefore the interactions between cytoskeleton and plasma membrane are critical to modulate blood platelet functions. Several cytoskeletal components and binding partners, as well as enzymes that regulate the cytoskeleton, localize to membrane/lipid rafts (MLR) and regulate lateral diffusion of membrane proteins and lipids. Resting, thrombin‐activated, and adherent human platelets were processed for biochemical studies including western‐blot and immunprecipitation assays and confocal analysis were performed to characterize the interaction of MLR with the main cytoskeleton elements and β‐dystroglycan as well as with the association of caveolin‐1 PY14 with focal adhesion proteins. We transfected a megakaryoblast cell line (Meg‐01) to deplete β‐dystroglycan, subsequent to their differentiation to the platelet progenitors. Our data showed a direct interaction of the MLR with cytoskeleton to regulate platelet shape, while an association of caveolin‐1 PY14 with vinculin is needed to establish focal adhesions, which are modulated for β‐dystroglycan. In conclusion, caveolin‐1 PY14 in association with platelet cytoskeleton participate in focal adhesions dynamics. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2528–2540, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chlamydia trachomatis Inclusion Disrupts Host Cell Cytokinesis to Enhance Its Growth in Multinuclear Cells
Authors: Sun He Song , Sin Alex T.‐W. , Poirier Mathieu B. , Harrison Rene E.
Published: June 2015

Chlamydia trachomatis, the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections, disrupts cytokinesis and causes significant multinucleation in host cells. Here, we demonstrate that multinuclear cells that result from unsuccessful cell division contain significantly higher Golgi content, an important source of lipids for chlamydiae. Using immunofluorescence and fluorescent live cell imaging, we show that C. trachomatis in multinuclear cells indeed intercept Golgi‐derived lipid faster than in mononuclear cells. Moreover, multinuclear cells enhance C. trachomatis inclusion growth and infectious particle formation. Together, these results indicate that C. trachomatis robustly position inclusions to the cell equator to disrupt host cell division in order to acquire host Golgi‐derived lipids more quickly in multinucleated progeny cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 132–143, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A subpopulation of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone neurons in the adult mouse forebrain is γ‐Aminobutyric acidergic
Authors: Zhu Jiao , Xu Xiao‐hui , Knight Gillian E. , He Cheng , Burnstock Geoffrey , Xiang Zhenghua
Published: June 2015

Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons play a pivotal role in reproductive function. GnRH is released in distinct pulses that are regulated by neurotransmitters or neuromodulators. With immunohistochemistry and GAD67‐GFP knockin mice, this study shows for the first time that a subset of GnRH neurons in the forebrain of adult mouse is γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic. There is a gender difference in the percentage of GnRH neurons expressing GAD67‐GFP in female vs. male mice. The percentage of GnRH neurons expressing GAD67‐GFP decreased after castration of female mice and increased to the normal female level after estradiol treatment. The percentage of GnRH neurons expressing GAD67‐GFP did not change significantly in intact, castrated, or castration + testosterone propionate‐treated male mice. During the female estrous cycle, the percentage of GnRH neurons expressing GAD67‐GFP was higher during the estrous stage than during the diestrous stage. During sexual maturation of postnatal development, GnRH neurons did not express GAD67‐GFP until postnatal day (P) 15, and the gender differences were first detected at P30, which corresponds to the maturation stage. In conclusion, our data suggest that 1) a subset of GnRH neurons in mouse forebrain is GABA‐ergic, 2) expression of GAD67‐GFP in GnRH neurons is at least in part regulated by estrogen, and 3) GnRH neurons secrete GABA to regulate themselves. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Camargo, Köppen and Thornthwaite climate classification systems in defining climatical regions of the state of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: de Souza Rolim Glauco , de O. Aparecido Lucas E.
Published: June 2015

Climate classification systems (CCS) are important tools to support a sustainable agriculture providing information about basic and general characteristics of a regional climate. The Köppen CCS (KGT) is considered useful mainly in macroscale and Thornthwaite CCS (TH), with a more complex symbology, in mesoscale for climatic determinations. Camargo (1991) (CAM) proposed a new CCS trying to be as simple as Köppen and robust as TH nevertheless with a simple symbology. In the state of São Paulo, it is known that regions with distinct availability of seasonal and annual rainfall are classified similarly by KGT, bringing erroneous information to the agricultural credit system, sowing times and yield forecasts. A comparison of different CCS raises a better understanding of a regional climate in different spatial scales and of CCS themselves. Aiming to characterize the climate and the performance of the CAM the KGT, CAM and TH were applied in 334 locations in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The most common CAM climates in the state were subtropical humid with dry winter (ST‐UMi) in the Centre and East region of the state, Tropical humid with dry winter (TR‐UMi) and Tropical subhumid with dry winter (TR‐SBi) in the north and west region, respectively. The total numbers of climates were 7, 19 and 26 from KGT, CAM and TH, respectively. The KGT had the ability in separating climates in macroscale, and CAM and TH in mesoscale. There was a tendency of the three CCS in separating warm and dry from cold and wet regions. The TH and CAM had the same performance (number of climates, NOC) in the extremes regions, in the hotter and dry (northern plateau) and the colder (mountainous regions, altitude > 900 m) corresponding to 52% of the state (178 locations). In the other areas TH had the double NOC than CAM.
Quality and PR gene expression of table grapes treated with ozone and sulfur dioxide to control fungal decay
Authors: Duarte‐Sierra Arturo , Aispuro‐Hernández Emmanuel , Vargas‐Arispuro Irasema , Islas‐Osuna María A , González‐Aguilar Gustavo A , Martínez‐Téllez Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Gaseous fumigants are commonly employed to control fungal decay of cold‐stored grapes. So far it is not clear if these fumigants, besides the direct interaction against fungal structures, induce transcriptional responses of defensive markers. In order to contribute to understanding the mechanisms by which these fumigants exert their effect, we studied the influence of ozone (O3) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) on the decay caused by Botrytis cinerea, and the quality and expression of the defense‐related genes chitinase, β‐1,3‐glucanase and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL) in the table grape cultivars ‘Redglobe’ and ‘Sugraone’.

RESULTS

The application of SO2 or O3 delayed decay of both table grape cultivars caused by B. cinerea compared with the inoculated control. O3 treatments altered weight loss, firmness and shatter in both cultivars. Significant upregulation of chitinase and β‐1,3‐glucanase were observed in SO2‐treated ‘Redglobe’ berries stored at 2 °C. O3 treatment transiently increased the expression of chitinase and PAL in ‘Redglobe’ and ‘Sugraone’ berries, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Ozone and sulfur dioxide treatments can influence the expression patterns of PAL, chitinase and β‐1,3‐glucanase to different extents in different grape cultivars and under different exposure conditions. The upregulation of these genes may be involved in the mechanism by which these fumigants inhibit the decay caused by pathogenic fungi. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of the use of anti‐hail nets on codling moth (Cydia pomonella) and organoleptic quality of apple (cv. Braeburn) grown in Alto Adige Region (northern Italy)
Authors: Baiamonte Irene , Raffo Antonio , Nardo Nicoletta , Moneta Elisabetta , Peparaio Marina , D'Aloise Antonio , Kelderer Markus , Casera Claudio , Paoletti Flavio
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

The anti‐hail nets are widely used to protect apple fruit against hailstorms and hail damage. They can have also beneficial effects against pests in apple orchards, in particular codling moth (Cydia pomonella). However, covering the trees with anti‐hail nets can modify the orchard microclimate and reduce the interception of light, thus potentially causing negative consequences on the organoleptic quality of apple fruits.

RESULTS

A consistent reduction of the percentage of apple fruits infested by codling moth was registered as a result of the use of anti‐hail nets during two consecutive harvest years. Their use did not affect fruit maturity, but reduced the skin colour, sugar content, pulp total phenol content, volatile compound composition and sensory characteristics. However, the results were inconsistent over the two years apart for total phenols, formation of two volatile compounds (butyl and hexenyl acetate, the first being one of the main odorants in most apple cultivars), sensory attributes of ‘flavour of lemon’ and ‘juiciness’. For these parameters, the fruits from plots where the trees were not covered showed higher values than those from plots where anti‐hail nets were used.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of anti‐hail nets was effective in preventing the attack of codling moth to apple fruits, suggesting their use in organic management where conventional insecticides are prohibited. Under the conditions tested, anti‐hail nets showed a negative effect on some of the quality characteristics measured on apple fruits, which could influence consumer acceptability. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Reproducibility and optimization of in  vivo human diffusion‐weighted MRS of the corpus callosum at 3T and 7T
Authors: Wood Emily T. , Ercan Ayse Ece , Branzoli Francesca , Webb Andrew , Sati Pascal , Reich Daniel S. , Ronen Itamar
Published: June 2015

Diffusion‐weighted MRS (DWS) of brain metabolites enables the study of cell‐specific alterations in tissue microstructure by probing the diffusion of intracellular metabolites. In particular, the diffusion properties of neuronal N‐acetylaspartate (NAA), typically co‐measured with N‐acetylaspartyl glutamate (NAAG) (NAA + NAAG = tNAA), have been shown to be sensitive to intraneuronal/axonal damage in pathologies such as stroke and multiple sclerosis. Lacking, so far, are empirical assessments of the reproducibility of DWS measures across time and subjects, as well as a systematic investigation of the optimal acquisition parameters for DWS experiments, both of which are sorely needed for clinical applications of the method. In this study, we acquired comprehensive single‐volume DWS datasets of the human corpus callosum at 3T and 7T. We investigated the inter‐ and intra‐subject variability of empirical and modeled diffusion properties of tNAA [Davg(tNAA) and Dmodel(tNAA), respectively]. Subsequently, we used a jackknife‐like resampling approach to explore the variance of these properties in partial data subsets reflecting different total scan durations. The coefficients of variation (CV) and repeatability coefficients (CR) for Davg(tNAA) and Dmodel(tNAA) were calculated for both 3T and 7T, with overall lower variability in the 7T results. Although this work is limited to the estimation of the diffusion properties in the corpus callosum, we show that a careful choice of diffusion‐weighting conditions at both field strengths allows the accurate measurement of tNAA diffusion properties in clinically relevant experimental time. Based on the resampling results, we suggest optimized acquisition schemes of 13‐min duration at 3T and 10‐min duration at 7T, whilst retaining low variability (CV ≈ 8%) for the tNAA diffusion measures. Power calculations for the estimation of Dmodel(tNAA) and Davg(tNAA) based on the suggested schemes show that less than 21 subjects per group are sufficient for the detection of a 10% effect between two groups in case–control studies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Violence and Trophy Taking: A Case Study of Head and Neck Trauma in Two Individuals from the Gant Site (3MS11)
Authors: Thomas J‐L. , Buchanan M. , Wilson C. , Crane A.
Published: June 2015

In collaboration with Carrie V. Wilson, Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 (NAGPRA) Director for the Quapaw Tribe of Oklahoma, researchers at Indiana University undertook a comprehensive study of NAGPRA collections from the Gant site (3MS11), a pre‐Columbian village site in Mississippi County, Arkansas. Following non‐destructive, macroscopic analysis of skeletal material, evidence of violent trauma was identified in two young adult men from the site. In one individual, the trauma was likely perimortem, and the morphology and distribution of lesions were found to be consistent with trophy taking documented in the ethnohistory and archaeology of the region. In the second individual, the trauma was survived, indicated by lesions attributed to healing on the occipital squama and hyoid. The relationship between the violence identified in this study and other violence in the archaeological and ethnohistoric record of the region is discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Paths of the European Conquest of the Atlantic: Osteological Evidence of Warfare and Violence in Gran Canaria (XV Century)
Authors: Santana‐Cabrera J. , Velasco‐Vázquez J. , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez A. , González‐Marrero M. C. , Delgado‐Darias T.
Published: June 2015

European expansion in the Atlantic in the Late Middle Ages often implied the use of violence, involving tactics and weaponry unknown to some of the affected populations. Among the first places to suffer this violence were the Canary Islands, whose conquest lasted the whole of the 15th century. Documentary information about this historical episode is abundant, whereas archaeological evidence testifying to it is very rare. However, an individual from an indigenous funerary context of Gran Canaria (placed in a collective burial cave and wrapped in a shroud made of vegetable fibres) displays a large number of wounds, both on his skull and on the rest of the skeleton, probably caused by swords, suggesting a mortal attack conducted by one or more aggressors. Based on the study of injuries, it is considered a potential explanation of their origin, concluding that most likely this case may be associated with the process of the conquest of the Island. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The New ‘Coimbra Method’: A Biologically Appropriate Method for Recording Specific Features of Fibrocartilaginous Entheseal Changes
Authors: Henderson C. Y. , Mariotti V. , Pany‐Kucera D. , Villotte S. , Wilczak C.
Published: June 2015

This paper presents a revised version of the Coimbra method for recording fibrocartilaginous entheses. The method itself is the only biologically appropriate recording method for fibrocartilaginous entheses that scores features separately, thereby ensuring that the aetiology of individual features can be studied. The method divides the enthesis into two zones, scoring the relevant features in each zone. These features represent either bone formation or bone destruction and include erosive lesions, fine and macro‐porosity, and cavitations. The revised method includes a new feature, textural change, which is scored as absent or present when it involves 50% or more of the surface. All other features are now scored as zero (absent), one or two with the higher score representing greater expression of the feature. This change in scoring has led to the reduction of inter‐observer error with approximately 80% agreement for overall feature scores for both the common extensor origin and subscapularis insertion. The simplification of the scores and the reduction in inter‐observer error mean that the method is now recommended for widespread use. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of in situ poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) microfibrils on the morphological structure and crystallization behavior of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) under an intensive shear rate
Authors: Zhao Zhongguo , Yang Qi , Xiang Zhang , Kong Miqiu , Tang Dahang , Huang Yajiang , Liao Xia , Niu Yanhua
Published: June 2015

The morphological structure and crystallization behavior of in situ poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/isotactic polypropylene (iPP) microparts prepared through micro‐injection molding are investigated using a polarized light microscope, differential scanning calorimeter, scanning electron microscope, and two‐dimensional wide‐angle X‐ray. Results indicate that both the shear effect and addition of PET fibers greatly influence the morphologies of the iPP matrix. Typical “skin‐core” and oriented crystalline structures (shish‐kebab) may simultaneously be observed in neat iPP and iPP/PET microparts. The presence of PET phases reveals significant nucleation ability for iPP crystallization. High concentrations of PET phases, especially long PET fibers, correspond to rapid crystallization of the iPP matrix. The occurrence of PET microfibrils decreases the content and size of β‐crystals; by contrast, the orientation degree of β‐crystals increases with increasing PET content in the microparts. This result suggests that the existence of the microfibrillar network can retain the ordered clusters and promote the development of oriented crystalline structures to some extent. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simple and efficient strategy to synthesize PEG‐aldehyde derivatives for hydrazone orthogonal chemistry
Authors: Mauri Emanuele , Rossi Filippo , Sacchetti Alessandro
Published: June 2015

To satisfy the increasing need for improved tissue substitutes, tissue engineering seeks to create synthetic, three‐dimensional scaffolds made from polymeric materials that can carry and release cells and growth factors to induce new tissue formation. Materials science, in conjunction with biotechnology, can satisfy these needs by developing artificial, synthetic substitutes and organ implants. Here, scaffold ability to promote cell growth and differentiation is a key point and, in this framework, orthogonal chemistry has led the field of biomaterial science into a new area of selective, versatile and biocompatible nature. In particular, hydrazone bond seems to be extremely promising because of its high cytocompatibility, biocompatibility and non‐toxic degradation products. Hydrazone bond formation needs the presence of an aldehyde derivative that sometimes is not very simple to synthesize. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) commonly used in nanoparticles, hydrogels and scaffold production presents several problems, and all the classic synthetic routes are not able to attack the hydroxyl groups present at the extremities of polymer chain. Here we present a simple and efficient strategy to overcome these limitations and synthesize PEG‐aldehyde then useful for hydrazone bonding. Different PEG (2000 and 8000 Da) and methoxy‐PEG (5000 Da) were used, and final products were characterized with NMR and FT‐IR to verify their ability to create hydrazone bonds. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and characterisation of two general odourant‐binding proteins from the litchi fruit borer, Conopomorpha sinensis Bradley
Authors: Yao Qiong , Xu Shu , Dong Yizhi , Lu Kai , Chen Bingxu
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

The litchi fruit borer, Conopomorpha sinensis Bradley, is one of the most destructive pests of litchi and longan fruits in south‐east Asia and southern China, yet the molecular biology and physiology of this pest remain poorly understood. Control of this insect pest may be achieved by interfering with its recognition of host plants.

RESULTS

In this study, two cDNAs encoding CsGOBP1 and CsGOBP2 were identified from the antennae of C. sinensis, and a comparative study on these two C. sinensis GOBPs (CsGOBPs) was conducted. The secondary structure of these two CsGOBPs mainly consists of six α‐helices, but three‐dimensional structural predictions of CsGOBP1 and CsGOBP2 indicated significant difference in the final 3D models. Results in real‐time PCR assays indicated that the two CsGOBPs had different tissue‐ and sex‐dependent expression patterns. A competitive binding assay revealed that CsGOBP1 considerably prefer the component exhibited in Guiwei or Feizixiao litchi cultivar, while CsGOBP2 bind to general volatile components from nine litchi cultivars. Additionally, ethyl acetate has higher binding affinities to CsGOBP2 protein than to CsGOBP1, and has remarkable attraction to female C. sinensis moths in Y‐tube olfactometer assays.

CONCLUSION

These results strongly suggest functional difference between these two CsGOBPs in perception of host plant odourants. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Using a latent class model to refine risk stratification in multiple myeloma
Authors: Qu Pingping , Barlogie Bart , Crowley John
Published: June 2015

In multiple myeloma research, the GEP70 model is known to be capable of predicting a high risk patient group for disease progression based on the expression levels of 70 selected genes measured at baseline. The model consists of a continuous gene score that is a linear combination of the 70 genes along with a cutoff, such that patients with a score greater than the cutoff are categorized as high risk and otherwise low risk for disease progression. However, the continuous gene score may be confusing at times because of its open range nature. In addition, the present two‐group model is sensitive to scores falling close to its cutoff. To facilitate patients' understanding of their prognosis, it is desirable to convert the continuous score into a probability that has an easier interpretation. In this article, we employ a latent class model to address this issue, and we also propose a superior grey zone model to refine the current risk stratification associated with the GEP70 model. Lastly, we demonstrate the robustness of the grey zone model with results from a simulation study. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing for treatment‐biomarker interaction based on local partial‐likelihood
Authors: Liu Yicong , Jiang Wenyu , Chen Bingshu E.
Published: June 2015

In clinical trials, patients with different biomarker features may respond differently to the new treatments or drugs. In personalized medicine, it is important to study the interaction between treatment and biomarkers in order to clearly identify patients that benefit from the treatment. With the local partial‐likelihood estimation (LPLE) method proposed by Fan J, Lin H, Zhou Y. Local partial‐likelihood estimation for lifetime data. The Annals of Statistics 2006; 34(1):290Ű325, the treatment effect can be modeled as a flexible function of the biomarker. In this paper, we propose a bootstrap test method for survival outcome data based on the LPLE, for assessing whether the treatment effect is a constant among all patients or varies as a function of the biomarker. The test method is called local partial‐likelihood bootstrap (LPLB) and is developed by bootstrapping the martingale residuals. The test statistic measures the amount of change in treatment effects across the entire range of the biomarker and is derived based on asymptotic theories for martingales. The LPLB method is nonparametric and is shown in simulations and data analysis examples to be flexible enough to identify treatment effects in a biomarker‐defined subset and more powerful to detect treatment‐biomarker interaction of complex forms than the Cox regression model with a simple interaction. We use data from a breast cancer and a prostate cancer clinical trial to illustrate the proposed LPLB test. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Covariance models on the surface of a sphere: when does it matter?
Authors: Jeong Jaehong , Jun Mikyoung
Published: June 2015

There is a growing interest in developing covariance functions for processes on the surface of a sphere because of the wide availability of data on the globe. Utilizing the one‐to‐one mapping between the Euclidean distance and the great circle distance, isotropic and positive definite functions in a Euclidean space can be used as covariance functions on the surface of a sphere. This approach, however, may result in physically unrealistic distortion on the sphere especially for large distances. We consider several classes of parametric covariance functions on the surface of a sphere, defined with either the great circle distance or the Euclidean distance, and investigate their impact upon spatial prediction. We fit several isotropic covariance models to simulated data as well as real data from National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP)/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) reanalysis on the sphere. We demonstrate that covariance functions originally defined with the Euclidean distance may not be adequate for some global data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attenuated Innate Immunity in Embryonic Stem Cells and Its Implications in Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Guo Yan-Lin , Carmichael Gordon G. , Wang Ruoxing , Hong Xiaoxiao , Acharya Dhiraj , Huang Faqing , Bai Fengwei
Published: June 2015

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) represent a promising cell source for regenerative medicine. Intensive research over the past 2 decades has led to the feasibility of using ESC-differentiated cells (ESC-DCs) in regenerative medicine. However, increasing evidence indicates that ESC-DCs generated by current differentiation methods may not have equivalent cellular functions to their in vivo counterparts. Recent studies have revealed that both human and mouse ESCs as well as some types of ESC-DCs lack or have attenuated innate immune responses to a wide range of infectious agents. These findings raise important concerns for their therapeutic applications since ESC-DCs, when implanted to a wound site of a patient, where they would likely be exposed to pathogens and inflammatory cytokines. Understanding whether an attenuated immune response is beneficial or harmful to the interaction between host and grafted cells becomes an important issue for ESC-based therapy. A substantial amount of recent evidence has demonstrated that the lack of innate antiviral responses is a common feature to ESCs and other types of pluripotent cells. This has led to the hypothesis that mammals may have adapted different antiviral mechanisms at different stages of organismal development. The underdeveloped innate immunity represents a unique and uncharacterized property of ESCs that may have important implications in developmental biology, immunology, and in regenerative medicine. Stem Cells  2015;33:3165–3173
Bone Marrow Therapies for Chronic Heart Disease
Authors: Behbahan Iman Saramipoor , Keating Armand , Gale Robert Peter
Published: June 2015

Chronic heart failure is a leading cause of death. The demand for new therapies and the potential regenerative capacity of bone marrow-derived cells has led to numerous clinical trials. We critically discuss current knowledge of the biology and clinical application of bone marrow cells. It appears unlikely that bone marrow cells can develop into functional cardiomyocyte after infusion but may have favorable paracrine effects. Most, but not all, clinical trials report a modest short- but not long-term benefit of infusing bone marrow-derived cells. Effect size appears to correlate with stringency of study-design: the most stringent trials report the smallest effect-sizes. We conclude there may be short- but not substantial long-term benefit of infusing bone marrow-derived cells into persons with chronic heart failure and any benefit observed is unlikely to result from trans-differentiation of bone marrow-derived cells into functioning cardiomyocytes. Stem Cells  2015;33:3212–3227
LGR5 Promotes Breast Cancer Progression and Maintains Stem-Like Cells Through Activation of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Yang Lu , Tang Hailin , Kong Yanan , Xie Xinhua , Chen Jianping , Song Cailu , Liu Xiaoping , Ye Feng , Li Ning , Wang Neng , Xie Xiaoming
Published: June 2015

The cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis suggests that a subset of cancer cells possesses stem cell properties and is crucial in tumor initiation, metastasis, and drug resistance. To determine the mechanism of CSCs in breast cancer, we focused on LGR5, a marker of adult stem cells that potentially serves as a functional factor in CSCs. LGR5 overexpression was detected in breast cancer and significantly associated with breast cancer recurrence and poor outcome. LGR5 promoted cell mobility, tumor formation, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In addition, LGR5 was more highly expressed in tumorspheres and increased the stemness of breast cancer cells. Compared with LGR5 low-expression (LGR5low) cells, LGR5high cells exhibited CSC/tumor-initiating cell-like properties, including the formation of self-renewing spheres and high tumorigenicity. Importantly, our studies indicate that LGR5 activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a possible mechanism to regulate breast CSC/tumor-initiating cell renewal. These findings indicate that LGR5 not only participates in carcinogenesis but also maintained stemness by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling in breast cancer. Stem Cells  2015;33:2913–2924
Empirical refinements of a molecular genetics learning progression: The molecular constructs
Authors: Todd Amber , Kenyon Lisa
Published: June 2015

This article describes revisions to four of the eight constructs of the Duncan molecular genetics learning progression [Duncan, Rogat, & Yarden, (2009)]. As learning progressions remain hypothetical models until validated by multiple rounds of empirical studies, these revisions are an important step toward validating the progression. Our revisions are based on empirical data obtained from tenth grade students in three classroom contexts (n = 121); although our study was done with students at the upper bounds of the progression, students held naive ideas prior to instruction which allowed us to track their ideas through all the levels of each construct during the course of one academic year. We revised the four constructs that center around the molecular model of genetics using students’ pre/post assessments and interviews. We found that tenth grade students do hold ideas consistent with the hypothesized levels in the progression as well as several intermediate ideas not included. Our revisions include adding student ideas that are important conceptual stepping stones in each construct as well as other modifications such as splitting and combining levels, moving ideas to other constructs, changing the conceptual progression of a construct and splitting a construct. Along with the revisions, we identified challenges in each construct. Even after instruction, students had difficulties understanding that genes code for proteins, that proteins connect genes and traits, and how differential gene expression leads to different repertoires of proteins inside of specialized cells. Our findings indicate that classroom instruction should focus more on proteins: how they are created, what their functions are, and how cells express different proteins. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 53: 1385–1418, 2016
Detection and Characterization of Compounds in the Mn‐W‐Cl System through a Combined Thermal Scanning ‐ XRD Approach
Authors: Mos Agnieszka , Ströbele Markus , Meyer H.‐Jürgen
Published: June 2015

A procedure combining thermal analyses and XRD powder diffraction is used to scan and detect a series of new compounds in the Mn‐W‐Cl system. Four new ternary Mn‐W‐Cl compounds are formed in a progressive reaction of tungsten hexachloride (WCl6) with manganese powder, in which tungsten is gradually reduced from W6+ to W2+. Among several DSC signals, the new compounds MnxWCl6, MnW2Cl10, (Mn, W)1–xCl2, and MnW6Cl14 are detected and their crystal structures are assigned or identified by X‐ray diffraction techniques. Magnetic properties are reported for MnW2Cl10 and MnW6Cl14.
The Gallides SrRh2Ga2, SrIr2Ga2, and Sr3Ir4Ga4
Authors: Seidel Stefan , Schubert Lea , Hoffmann Rolf‐Dieter , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: June 2015

The gallides SrRh2Ga2, SrIr2Ga2, and Sr3Rh4Ga4 were obtained from the elements by induction melting and subsequent annealing. They were investigated by powder and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction: CaRh2B2 type, Fddd, a = 573.2(1), b = 1051.3(1), c = 1343.7(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0218, 398 F2 values, 15 variables for SrRh2Ga2; a = 576.0(1), b = 1045.5(1), c = 1350.6(3) pm for SrIr2Ga2, and Na3Pt4Ge4 type, I$\bar{4}$3m, a = 777.4(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0234, 190 F2 values, 11 variables for Sr3Ir4Ga4. The gallides SrRh2Ga2 and Sr3Ir4Ga4 exhibit complex, covalently bonded three‐dimensional [Rh2Ga2] and [Ir4Ga4] networks with short Rh–Ga (241–246 pm) and Ir–Ga (243–259 pm) distances. The strontium atoms fill large cages within these networks. They are coordinated by 8 Rh + 10 Ga in SrRh2Ga2 and by 4 Ir + 8 Ga in Sr3Ir4Ga4. The structure of SrRh2Ga2 is discussed along with the monoclinic distortion variants HoNi2B2 and BaPt2Ga2 on the basis of a group‐subgroup scheme.
Modulation of Gene Expression in Key Survival Pathways During Daily Torpor in the Gray Mouse Lemur, Microcebus Murinus
Authors: Biggar Kyle K. , Wu Cheng-Wei , Tessier Shannon N. , Zhang Jing , Pifferi Fabien , Perret Martine , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: June 2015

A variety of mammals employ torpor as an energy-saving strategy in environments of marginal or severe stress either on a daily basis during their inactive period or on a seasonal basis during prolonged multi-day hibernation. Recently, a few Madagascar lemur species have been identified as the only primates that exhibit torpor; one of these is the gray mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus). To explore the regulatory mechanisms that underlie daily torpor in a primate, we analyzed the expression of 28 selected genes that represent crucial survival pathways known to be involved in squirrel and bat hibernation. Array-based real-time PCR was used to compare gene expression in control (aroused) versus torpid lemurs in five tissues including the liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, heart, and brown adipose tissue. Significant differences in gene expression during torpor were revealed among genes involved in glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, antioxidant defense, apoptosis, hypoxia signaling, and protein protection. The results showed upregulation of select genes primarily in liver and brown adipose tissue. For instance, both tissues showed elevated gene expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (ppargc), ferritin (fth1), and protein chaperones during torpor. Overall, the data show that the expression of only a few genes changed during lemur daily torpor, as compared with the broader expression changes reported for hibernation in ground squirrels. These results provide an indication that the alterations in gene expression required for torpor in lemurs are not as extensive as those needed for winter hibernation in squirrel models. However, identification of crucial genes with altered expression that support lemur torpor provides key targets to be explored and manipulated toward a goal of translational applications of inducible torpor as a treatment option in human biomedicine.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms as early manifestations of emergent dementia: Provisional diagnostic criteria for mild behavioral impairment
Authors: Ismail Zahinoor , Smith Eric E. , Geda Yonas , Sultzer David , Brodaty Henry , Smith Gwenn , Agüera‐Ortiz Luis , Sweet Rob , Miller David , Lyketsos Constantine G. ,   ISTAART Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Professional Interest Area
Published: June 2015

Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are common in dementia and in predementia syndromes such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI). NPS in MCI confer a greater risk for conversion to dementia in comparison to MCI patients without NPS. NPS in older adults with normal cognition also confers a greater risk of cognitive decline in comparison to older adults without NPS. Mild behavioral impairment (MBI) has been proposed as a diagnostic construct aimed to identify patients with an increased risk of developing dementia, but who may or may not have cognitive symptoms. We propose criteria that include MCI in the MBI framework, in contrast to prior definitions of MBI. Although MBI and MCI can co‐occur, we suggest that they are different and that both portend a higher risk of dementia. These MBI criteria extend the previous literature in this area and will serve as a template for validation of the MBI construct from epidemiologic, neurobiological, treatment, and prevention perspectives.
Effects of a high‐fat diet on the electrical properties of porcine atria
Authors: Okumura Yasuo , Watanabe Ichiro , Nagashima Koichi , Sonoda Kazumasa , Sasaki Naoko , Kogawa Rikitake , Takahashi Keiko , Iso Kazuki , Ohkubo Kimie , Nakai Toshiko , Takahashi Rie , Taniguchi Yoshiki , Mitsumata Masako , Nikaido Mizuki , Hirayama Atsushi
Published: June 2015

Background

Because obesity is an important risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF), we conducted an animal study to examine the effect of a high‐fat diet (HFD) on atrial properties and AF inducibility.

Methods

Ten 8‐week‐old pigs (weight, 18–23 kg) were divided into two groups. For 18 weeks, five pigs were fed a HFD (HFD group) and five were fed a normal diet (control group). Maps of atrial activation and voltages during sinus rhythm were created for all pigs using the EnSite NavX system. Effective refractory period (ERP) and AF inducibility were also determined. When AF was induced, complex fractionated atrial electrogram (CFAE) mapping was performed. At 18 weeks, hearts were removed for comparing the results of histological analysis between the two groups. Body weight, lipid levels, hemodynamics, cardiac structures, and electrophysiological properties were also compared.

Results

Total cholesterol levels were significantly higher (347 [191–434] vs. 81 [67–88] mg/dL, P=0.0088), and left atrium pressure was higher (34.5 [25.6–39.5] vs. 24.5 [21.3–27.8] mmHg, P=0.0833) in the HFD group than in the control group, although body weight only increased marginally (89 [78–101] vs. 70 [66–91] kg, P=0.3472). ERPs of the pulmonary vein (PV) were shorter (P<0.05) and AF lasted longer in the HFD group than in the control group (80 [45–1350] vs. 22 [3–30] s, P=0.0212). Neither CFAE site distribution nor histopathological characteristics differed between the two groups.

Conclusions

The shorter ERPs for the PV observed in response to the HFD increased vulnerability to AF, and these electrophysiological characteristics may underlie obesity‐related AF.
Technique Trumps Relevance: The Professionalization of Political Science and the Marginalization of Security Studies
Authors: Desch Michael
Published: June 2015

I explain here the disconnect between our discipline's self-image as balancing rigor with relevance with the reality of how we actually conduct our scholarship most of the time. To do so, I account for variation in social scientists' willingness to engage in policy-relevant scholarship over time. My theory is that social science, at least as it has been practiced in the United States since the early twentieth century, has tried to balance two impulses: To be a rigorous science and a relevant social enterprise. The problem is that there are sometimes tensions between these two objectives. First, historically the most useful policy-relevant social science work in the area of national security affairs has been interdisciplinary in nature, and this cuts against the increasingly rigid disciplinary siloes in the modern academy. Second, as sociologist Thomas Gieryn puts it, there is “in science, an unyielding tension between basic and applied research, and between the empirical and theoretical aspects of inquiry.” During wartime, the tensions between these two impulses have been generally muted, especially among those disciplines of direct relevance to the war effort; in peacetime, they reemerge and there are a variety of powerful institutional incentives within academe to resolve them in favor of a narrow definition of rigor that excludes relevance. My objective is to document how these trends in political science are marginalizing the sub-field of security studies, which has historically sought both scholarly rigor and real-world relevance. — Michael Desch.

This essay is followed by responses from Ido Oren, Laura Sjobreg, Helen Louise Turton, Erik Voeten, and Stephen M. Walt. Michael Desch then offers a response to commentators.