bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four‐Layer Tin–Carbon Nanotube Yolk–Shell Materials for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Peng , Wu Fengdan , Wang Yong
Published: March 2014

All high‐capacity anodes for lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) batteries, such as those based on tin (Sn) and silicon (Si), suffer from large volume changes during cycling with lithium ions, and their high capacities can be only achieved in the first few cycles. We design and synthesize a unique four‐layer yolk–shell tin–carbon (Sn–C) nanotube array to address this problem. The shape and size of the exterior Sn nanotube@carbon core–shell layer, the encapsulated interior Sn nanowire@carbon nanotube core–shell layer, and the filling level of each layer can be all controlled by adjusting the experimental conditions. Such a nanostructure has not been reported for any metal or metal oxide‐based material. Owing to the special design of the electrode structure, the four‐layer hierarchical structure demonstrates excellent Li‐ion storage properties in terms of high capacity, long cycle life, and high rate performance.
Diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of biopsy in musculoskeletal lesions: A comparison of fine‐needle aspiration, core, and open biopsy techniques
Authors: Layfield Lester J. , Schmidt Robert L. , Sangle Nikhil , Crim Julia R.
Published: March 2014

Selection of biopsy technique for musculoskeletal lesions is complex. Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is uncommonly used due to concerns regarding accuracy. We compared diagnostic accuracy of FNA, core, and open biopsy in a series of musculoskeletal lesions. Records of the University of Utah were searched for biopsy and resection specimens of musculoskeletal lesions. Results of corresponding imaging studies were obtained. Biopsy and FNA diagnoses were correlated with resection diagnoses. For each technique, diagnostic accuracy, utility, and frequency of subsequent biopsy were calculated. Open biopsy had the highest diagnostic accuracy (89%) followed by FNA (82%) and core biopsy (78%). Clinically significant errors occurred with all methods. The likelihood of an open biopsy being performed was affected by prior performance of an FNA or core biopsy and by diagnostic imaging and FNA results. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2014;42:476–486. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Origin and development of the germ line in sea stars
Authors: Wessel Gary M. , Fresques Tara , Kiyomoto Masato , Yajima Mamiko , Zazueta Vanesa
Published: March 2014

This review summarizes and integrates our current understanding of how sea stars make gametes. Although little is known of the mechanism of germ line formation in these animals, recent results point to specific cells and to cohorts of molecules in the embryos and larvae that may lay the ground work for future research efforts. A coelomic outpocketing forms in the posterior of the gut in larvae, referred to as the posterior enterocoel (PE), that when removed, significantly reduces the number of germ cell later in larval growth. This same PE structure also selectively accumulates several germ‐line associated factors—vasa, nanos, piwi—and excludes factors involved in somatic cell fate. Since its formation is relatively late in development, these germ cells may form by inductive mechanisms. When integrated into the morphological observations of germ cells and gonad development in larvae, juveniles, and adults, the field of germ line determination appears to have a good model system to study inductive germ line determination to complement the recent work on the molecular mechanisms in mice. We hope this review will also guide investigators interested in germ line determination and regulation of the germ line into how these animals can help in this research field. The review is not intended to be comprehensive—sea star reproduction has been studied for over 100 years and many reviews are comprehensive in their coverage of, for example, seasonal growth of the gonads in response to light, nutrient, and temperature. Rather the intent of this review is to help the reader focus on new experimental results attached to the historical underpinnings of how the germ cell functions in sea stars with particular emphasis to clarify the important areas of priority for future research. genesis 52:367–377, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Delimiting cryptic pathogen species causing apple Valsa canker with multilocus data
Authors: Wang Xuli , Zang Rui , Yin Zhiyuan , Kang Zhensheng , Huang Lili
Published: March 2014

Fungal diseases are posing tremendous threats to global economy and food safety. Among them, Valsa canker, caused by fungi ofValsaand theirCytosporaanamorphs, has been a serious threat to fruit and forest trees and is one of the most destructive diseases of apple in East Asia, particularly. Accurate and robust delimitation of pathogen species is not only essential for the development of effective disease control programs, but also will advance our understanding of the emergence of plant diseases. However, species delimitation is especially difficult inValsabecause of the high variability of morphological traits and in many cases the lack of the teleomorph. In this study, we delimitated species boundary for pathogens causing apple Valsa canker with a multifaceted approach. Based on three independent loci, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS),β‐tubulin (Btu), and translation elongation factor‐1 alpha (EF1α), we inferred gene trees with both maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods, estimated species tree with Bayesian multispecies coalescent approaches, and validated species tree with Bayesian species delimitation. Through divergence time estimation and ancestral host reconstruction, we tested the possible underlying mechanisms for fungal speciation and host‐range change. Our results proved that two varieties of the former morphological speciesV. malirepresented two distinct species,V. maliandV. pyri, which diverged about 5 million years ago, much later than the divergence of their preferred hosts, excluding a scenario of fungi–host co‐speciation. The marked different thermal preferences and contrasting pathogenicity in cross‐inoculation suggest ecological divergences between the two species. Apple was the most likely ancestral host for bothV. maliandV. pyri. Host‐range expansion led to the occurrence ofV. pyrion both pear and apple. Our results also represent an example in whichITSdata might underestimate species diversity.
Targeting DNGR‐1 (CLEC9A) with antibody/MUC1 peptide conjugates as a vaccine for carcinomas
Authors: Picco Gianfranco , Beatson Richard , Taylor‐Papadimitriou Joyce , Burchell Joy M.
Published: March 2014

DCs are the most potent APCs and are the focus of many immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of cancer, although most of these approaches require the ex vivo generation and pulsing of DCs. We have targeted a subset of DCs in vivo using an Ab to DNGR‐1, a C‐type lectin dedicated to the cross‐presentation of Ag expressed by subsets of DCs. HLA‐A2 epitopes from the tumour‐associated Ag, MUC1, were coupled to the anti‐DNGR‐1 Ab, and their efficacy in generating a Th1‐cell response and inhibiting tumour growth was evaluated in a clinically relevant double transgenic mouse model expressing human MUC1 and A2K/b. Using this strategy, we demonstrate that an effective immune response to MUC1 can be generated, which results in a significant delay in the growth of MUC1‐expressing tumours in both prophylactic and therapeutic settings. In addition, we also show, using PBMCs isolated from healthy volunteer blood, that target an MUC1 HLA‐A2 epitope to human DNGR‐1 in vitro can induce an MUC1‐specific CD8+‐T‐cell response, which confirms the relevance of our in vivo murine results in the human setting.
Altered T‐cell entry and egress in the absence of Coronin 1A attenuates murine acute graft versus host disease
Authors: Fulton LeShara M. , Taylor Nicholas A. , Coghill James M. , West Michelle L. , Föger Niko , Bear James E. , Baldwin Albert S. , Panoskaltsis‐Mortari Angela , Serody Jonathan S.
Published: March 2014

Acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGvHD) is a major limitation to the use of allogeneic stem cell transplantation for the treatment of patients with relapsed malignant disease. Previous work using animals lacking secondary lymphoid tissue (SLT) suggested that activation of donor T cells in SLT is critically important for the pathogenesis of aGvHD. However, these studies did not determine if impaired migration into, and more importantly, out of SLT, would ameliorate aGvHD. Here, we show that T cells from mice lacking Coronin 1A (Coro 1A−/−), an actin‐associated protein shown to be important for thymocyte egress, do not mediate acute GvHD. The attenuation of aGvHD was associated with decreased expression of the critical trafficking proteins C‐C chemokines receptor type 7 (CCR7) and sphingosine 1 phosphate receptor on donor T cells. This was mediated in part by impaired activation of the canonical NF‐κB pathway in the absence of Coro 1A. As a result of these alterations, donor T cells from Coro 1A−/− mice were not able to initially traffic to SLT or exit SLT after BM transplantation. However, this alteration did not abrogate the graft‐versus‐leukemia response. Our data suggest that blocking T‐cell migration into and out of SLT is a valid approach to prevent aGvHD.
Signal‐transducing adaptor protein‐2 regulates macrophage migration into inflammatory sites during dextran sodium sulfate induced colitis
Authors: Fujita Natsuko , Oritani Kenji , Ichii Michiko , Yokota Takafumi , Saitoh Norimitsu , Okuzaki Daisuke , Sekine Yuichi , Kon Shigeyuki , Muromoto Ryuta , Saitoh Kodai , Yoshimura Akihiko , Matsuda Tadashi , Kanakura Yuzuru
Published: March 2014

Signal‐transducing adaptor protein‐2 (STAP‐2) was cloned as a c‐fms/M‐CSF receptor interacting protein. STAP‐2 is an adaptor protein carrying pleckstrin homology and Src homology 2 like domains, as well as a YXXQ motif. STAP‐2 has been indicated to have an ability to bind and modulate a variety of signaling and transcriptional molecules. Especially, our previous in vitro studies showed that STAP‐2 is crucial for immune and/or inflammatory responses. Here, we have investigated the role of STAP‐2 in intestinal inflammation in vivo. The disruption of STAP‐2 attenuates dextran sodium sulfate induced colitis via inhibition of macrophage recruitment. To study whether hematopoietic or epithelial cell derived STAP‐2 is required for this phenomenon, we generated BM chimeric mice. STAP‐2‐deficient macrophages impair the ability of CXCL12‐induced migration. Intriguingly, STAP‐2 also regulates production of proinflammatory chemokines and cytokines such as CXCL1 and TNF‐α from intestinal epithelial cells. Therefore, STAP‐2 has a potential to regulate plural molecular events during pathological inflammatory responses. Furthermore, our findings not only indicate that STAP‐2 is important in regulating intestinal inflammation, but also provide new insights toward the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
TLR‐mediated STAT3 and ERK activation controls IL‐10 secretion by human B cells
Authors: Liu Bi‐Sheng , Cao Yonghao , Huizinga Tom W. , Hafler David A. , Toes Rene E.M.
Published: March 2014

IL‐10‐producing B cells have a regulatory effect in various mouse models for immune‐mediated disorders via secretion of IL‐10, a potent immunoregulatory cytokine. However, currently, the signaling pathways that regulate IL‐10 production in B cells are not well understood. Here, we show that TLR signaling, but not BCR activation or CD40 ligation, induces potent production of IL‐10 in human B cells. We demonstrate that the activation of STAT3 and ERK is required for TLR‐induced IL‐10 production by B cells, since inhibition of STAT3 or ERK activation abrogates TLR‐induced IL‐10 production. We also uncover a novel function of the TLR‐MyD88‐STAT3 pathway in B cells, namely controlling IL‐10 production, in addition to the known role for this pathway in antibody production. Furthermore, IFN‐α, a member of the type I IFN family, differentially modulates TLR7/8‐ and TLR9‐activated STAT3 and ERK in B cells, which provides an explanation for our findings that IFN‐α enhances TLR7/8‐induced, but not TLR9‐induced IL‐10 production. These results yield insights into the mechanisms by which TLR signaling regulates IL‐10 production in B cells and how type I IFN modulates TLR‐mediated IL‐10 production by B cells, therefore providing potential targets to modulate the function of IL‐10‐producing B cells.
NK/DC crosstalk in immunosurveillance: A broken relationship caused by WASP‐deficiency
Authors: Romagnani Chiara , Babic Marina
Published: March 2014

Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is a primary immunodeficiency, which is characterized by abnormal immune system functions caused by the lack of expression of WAS protein (WASp). A higher tumor susceptibility is observed in WAS patients; whether this is a direct consequence of impaired immunosurveillance due to WAS deficiency in immune cells is, however, an open question. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Catucci et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2014. 44: 1039‐1045] shed light on the link between Was deficiency and immunosurveillance in a tumor‐prone mouse model and report a role for the impaired crosstalk between natural killer (NK) cells and dendritic cells (DCs) in mediating this process. The potential mechanisms involved in WASp regulation of NK/DC‐mediated immunosurveillance are the focus of this Commentary.
Mitochondrial response to nutrient availability and its role in metabolic disease
Authors: Gao Arwen W , Cantó Carles , Houtkooper Riekelt H
Published: March 2014

Metabolic inflexibility is defined as an impaired capacity to switch between different energy substrates and is a hallmark of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Hence, understanding the mechanisms underlying proper metabolic flexibility is key to prevent the development of metabolic disease and physiological deterioration. An important downstream player in the effects of metabolic flexibility is the mitochondrion. The objective of this review was to describe how mitochondrial metabolism adapts to limited nutrient situations or caloric excess by changes in mitochondrial function or biogenesis, as well as to define the mechanisms propelling these changes. Altogether, this should pinpoint key regulatory points by which metabolic flexibility might be ameliorated in situations of metabolic disease.
Vadose CO2 gas drives dissolution at water tables in eogenetic karst aquifers more than mixing dissolution
Authors: Gulley Jason , Martin Jonathan , Moore Paul
Published: March 2014

Most models of cave formation in limestone that remains near its depositional environment and has not been deeply buried (i.e. eogenetic limestone) invoke dissolution from mixing of waters that have different ionic strengths or have equilibrated with calcite at different pCO2 values. In eogenetic karst aquifers lacking saline water, mixing of vadose and phreatic waters is thought to form caves. We show here calcite dissolution in a cave in eogenetic limestone occurred due to increases in vadose CO2 gas concentrations and subsequent dissolution of CO2 into groundwater, not by mixing dissolution. We collected high‐resolution time series measurements (1 year) of specific conductivity (SpC), temperature, meteorological data, and synoptic water chemical composition from a water table cave in central Florida (Briar Cave). We found SpC, pCO2 and calcite undersaturation increased through late summer, when Briar Cave experienced little ventilation by outside air, and decreased through winter, when increased ventilation lowered cave CO2(g) concentrations. We hypothesize dissolution occurred when water flowed from aquifer regions with low pCO2 into the cave, which had elevated pCO2. Elevated pCO2 would be promoted by fractures connecting the soil to the water table. Simple geochemical models demonstrate that changes in pCO2 of less than 1% along flow paths are an order of magnitude more efficient at dissolving limestone than mixing of vadose and phreatic water. We conclude that spatially or temporally variable vadose CO2(g) concentrations are responsible for cave formation because mixing is too slow to generate observed cave sizes in the time available for formation. While this study emphasized dissolution, gas exchange between the atmosphere and karst aquifer vadose zones that is facilitated by conduits likely exerts important controls on other geochemical processes in limestone critical zones by transporting oxygen deep into vadose zones, creating redox boundaries that would not exist in the absence of caves. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pesticide residue evaluation in major staple food items of Ethiopia using the QuEChERS method: A case study from the Jimma Zone
Authors: Mekonen Seblework , Ambelu Argaw , Spanoghe Pieter
Published: March 2014

Samples of maize, teff, red pepper, and coffee (green bean and coffee bean with pulp) were collected from a local market in the Jimma Zone, Ethiopia. Samples were analyzed for the occurrence of cypermethrin, permethrin, deltamethrin, chlorpyrifos ethyl, DTT and its metabolites, and endosulfan (α, β). In the analytical procedure, the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe) extraction methodology with dispersive solid phase extraction clean up (d-SPE) technique was applied. Validation of the QuEChERS method was satisfactory. Recovery percentages of most pesticides were in the range of 70% to 120%, with good repeatability (%relative standard deviation < 20). The limit of detection and limit of quantification varied between 0.001 µg/g and 0.092 µg/g and between 0.002 µg/g and 0.307 µg/g, respectively. The main pesticides detected were DDT, endosulfan, cypermethrin, and permethrin. All of the pesticides analyzed were detected in red pepper and green coffee bean. Residues of DDT in coffee pulp significantly differed (p < 0.01) from other food items except for red pepper. The concentration of pesticides in the food items varied from 0.011 mg/kg to 1.115 mg/kg. All food items contained 1 or more pesticides. Two-thirds of the samples had residues below corresponding maximum residue limits, and the remaining one-third of samples were above the maximum residue limits. These results indicate the need for a good pesticide monitoring program to evaluate consumer risk for the Ethiopian people. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1294–1302. © 2014 SETAC
Developmental impairment in eurasian dipper nestlings exposed to urban stream pollutants
Authors: Morrissey Christy A. , Stanton David W.G. , Tyler Charles R. , Pereira M. Glória , Newton Jason , Durance Isabelle , Ormerod Steve J.
Published: March 2014

Avian studies of endocrine disruption traditionally have focused on reproductive impairment, given that many environmental contaminants affect sex steroid hormones. There is also increasing interest in altered thyroid function, and associated early development, particularly in altricial species with extended developmental windows. Both types of effect are relevant under the complex pollutant conditions created in streams draining urban areas, but case studies are scarce. Therefore, the authors measured breeding performance, as well as nestling growth, condition, and plasma thyroid hormones, in 87 Eurasian dipper (Cinclus cinclus) nests on 36 urban and rural streams in south and mid-Wales (UK); invertebrate prey data were also collected. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether urban stream pollution or food scarcity might affect reproduction or development in this specialized aquatic songbird. Clutch sizes and egg fertility were similar on rural and urban streams, whereas nest success was actually higher at urban sites and food abundance was not significantly reduced. However, subtle but important differences were apparent. Urban nestlings were significantly lighter than rural nestlings for their body size (condition index), and brood sex ratios were increasingly male biased with increasing urbanization. The nestling thyroid hormone profile closely reflected urban land use, whereas depressed triiodothyronine (T3) hormones and poorer body condition were associated with higher exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) at urbanized sites. These data suggest that PCBs, PBDEs, and/or accompanying contaminants in urban streams could be affecting dipper nestling development, with potential consequences for the birds' fitness. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1315–1323. © 2014 SETAC
Development and application of a novel method for high-throughput determination of PCDD/Fs and PCBs in sediments
Authors: Aguilar Lissette , Williams E. Spencer , Brooks Bryan W. , Usenko Sascha
Published: March 2014

A selective pressurized liquid extraction technique was developed for the simultaneous extraction of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) from contaminated sediments. The final method incorporated cleanup adsorbents (Florisil, alumina, and silica) into the extraction cell in a 1:1 ratio of matrix to individual adsorbent (w/w). Sulfur, a common interference found in sediments, was successfully removed by placing activated copper in the extraction bottle prior to extraction. No additional postextraction cleanup was required, and sample throughput was reduced to 2.5 h per sample. Target analytes were quantified using high-resolution gas chromatography/electron-capture negative ionization mass spectrometry and verified by high-resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry. Though mean analyte recoveries (n = 3) of PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs were 84 ± 5.8% and 70 ± 8.4%, respectively, mean surrogate recoveries for all PCDD/Fs using this novel method were greatly improved compared with US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) method 1613 (∼25–155%) and USEPA method 8290a (40–135%). After development, the method was used to examine surficial sediment samples from the San Jacinto River waste pits, a Superfund site in Houston, Texas, USA. In all samples, PCDD/Fs and dl-PCBs were detected, and the contaminant concentrations ranged over 5 orders of magnitude. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1529–1536. © 2014 SETAC
A mode split, Godunov‐type model for nonhydrostatic, free surface flow
Authors: Bradford Scott F.
Published: March 2014

A previously developed model for nonhydrostatic, free surface flow is redesigned to improve computational efficiency without sacrificing accuracy. Both models solve the Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes equations in a fractional step manner with the pressure split into hydrostatic and nonhydrostatic components. The hydrostatic equations are first solved with an approximate Riemann solver. The hydrostatic solution is then corrected by including the nonhydrostatic pressure and requiring the velocity field to obey the incompressibility constraint.

The original model requires the solution of a Riemann problem at every cell face for each vertical layer of cells, which is computationally expensive. The redesigned model instead solves the shallow water (long wave) equations for the hydrostatic solution. Vertical shear is computed by subtracting the shallow water equations from the full three dimensional equations, which removes the hydrostatic thrust terms. Therefore, the required fluxes may be more efficiently computed with velocity based upwind differencing rather than solving a Riemann problem in each vertical layer of cells. This approach is termed mode splitting and has been used in hydrostatic coastal and ocean circulation models, but not surf zone models. Numerical predictions are compared with analytical solutions and experimental data to show that the mode split model is as accurate as the original model, but requires significantly less computational effort especially for large numbers of cell layers. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Design and analysis of a Schwarz coupling method for a dimensionally heterogeneous problem
Authors: Tayachi M. , Rousseau A. , Blayo E. , Goutal N. , Martin V.
Published: March 2014

In the present work, we propose and analyse an efficient iterative coupling method for a dimensionally heterogeneous problem. We consider the case of a 2D Laplace equation with non‐symmetric boundary conditions coupled with a corresponding 1D Laplace equation. We first show how to obtain the 1D model from the 2D one by integration along one direction, by analogy with the link between shallow water equations and the Navier–Stokes system. Then we focus on the design of a Schwarz‐like iterative coupling method. We discuss the choice of boundary conditions at coupling interfaces. We prove the convergence of such algorithms and give some theoretical results related to the choice of the location of the coupling interface, and to the control of the difference between a global 2D reference solution and the 2D coupled solution. These theoretical results are illustrated numerically. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of N‐glycosylation in kiwi allergy
Authors: Garrido‐Arandia María , Murua‐García Amaya , Palacin Aranzazu , Tordesillas Leticia , Gómez‐Casado Cristina , Blanca‐Lopez Natalia , Ramos Tania , Canto Gabriela , Blanco Carlos , Cuesta‐Herranz Javier , Sánchez‐Monge Rosa , Pacios Luis F. , Díaz Perales Araceli
Published: March 2014

The physical, biochemical, and immunological characteristics of plant allergens have been widely studied, but no definite conclusion has been reached about what actually makes a protein an allergen. In this sense, N‐glycosylation is an exclusive characteristic of plant allergens not present in mammals and it could be implied in allergenic sensitization. With this aim, we evaluated and compared the allergenic activity of the protein fraction and the N‐glycan fraction of the thaumatin‐like protein and the main kiwi allergen, Act d 2. The natural allergen, Act d 2, was deglycosylated by trifluoromethanesulfonic acid treatment; the N‐glycan fraction was obtained by extended treatment with proteinase K. N‐glycan‐ and protein‐ fractions were recognized by specific IgE of kiwi‐allergic patients. By contrast, the sugar moiety showed a reduced capacity to activate basophils and T cells, but not dendritic cells derived from patients' monocytes. Related to this, the production of cytokines such as IL6 and IL10 was increased by the incubation of dendritic cells with sugar moiety. Thus, the sugar moiety plays a significant role in sensitization, inducing the activation of antigen‐presenting cells, but it is the protein fraction that is responsible for the allergic reactions.
Differential role of CCR2 in the dynamics of microglia and perivascular macrophages during prion disease
Authors: Gómez‐Nicola Diego , Schetters Sjoerd T.T. , Hugh Perry V.
Published: March 2014

The expansion of the microglial population is one of the hallmarks of numerous brain disorders. The addition of circulating progenitors to the pool of brain macrophages can contribute to the progression of brain disease and needs to be precisely defined to better understand the evolution of the glial and inflammatory reactions in the brain. We have analyzed the degree of infiltration/recruitment of circulating monocytes to the microglial pool, in a prion disease model of chronic neurodegeneration. Our results indicate a minimal/absent level of CCR2‐dependent recruitment of circulating monocytes, local proliferation of microglia is the main driving force maintaining the amplification of the population. A deficiency in CCR2, and thus the absence of recruitment of circulating monocytes, does not impact microglial dynamics, the inflammatory profile or the temporal behavioral course of prion disease. However, the lack of CCR2 has unexpected effects including the failure to recruit perivascular macrophages in diseased but not healthy CNS and a small reduction in microglia proliferation. These data define the composition of the CNS‐resident macrophage populations in prion disease and will help to understand the dynamics of the CNS innate immune response during chronic neurodegeneration. GLIA 2014;62:1041–1052
Informal Workplace Learning in Austrian Banks: The Influence of Learning Approach, Leadership Style, and Organizational Learning Culture on Managers' Learning Outcomes
Authors: Froehlich Dominik , Segers Mien , Van den Bossche Piet
Published: March 2014

Informal workplace learning takes an increasingly focal role in human resource development (HRD) practice and research, as it contributes to or ganizations' adaptability and competitiveness. However, little is known about how individual managers' approaches to learning and contextual influences such as leadership and organizational learning culture influence learning outcomes. This study narrows these gaps by examining the relationship between learning approaches, experienced leadership style, organizational learning culture, and learning outcomes among 143 Austrian bank managers in a cross‐sectional, quantitative questionnaire study. Results show that the choice of learning approach significantly affects several conceptualizations of learning outcome. Moreover, we have found that learning approaches partially mediate the effects of experienced leadership style on learning outcomes. Also, organizational learning culture moderates the effects of leadership style and learning approaches. These findings call for further research of the process and outcome of informal workplace learning and imply a need for greater awareness of both individuals' learning approaches and contextual influences of the learning process in practice.
Assessing the Influence of Managerial Coaching on Employee Outcomes
Authors: Kim Sewon
Published: March 2014

The present study investigates relationships between managerial coaching behavior and employee role clarity, attitude, and performance‐related responses. Using data from a sample of 234 South Korean employees in a private conglomerate, structural equation modeling analysis was conducted to test the hypothesized conceptual model. The results found support for the proposed model and core structural relations, such that managerial coaching had a direct impact on employee role clarity and satisfaction with work and an indirect impact on satisfaction with work via role clarity, organization commitment via satisfaction with work, and job performance via role clarity. The study provides empirical evidence for managerial coaching effectiveness, the identification of mediating mechanisms between managerial coaching and employee work‐related outcomes, and finally cultural contexts and perspectives to managerial coaching practice. Implications of these results for theory and practice and directions for future research are discussed.
Strengthening Your Submissions to HRDQ: Advice from the Managing Editor
Authors: Lynn Lunn Mary
Published: March 2014

This Forum piece is intended to offer some practical and prescribed guidelines for submitting manuscripts to HRDQ. This advice from the HRDQ Managing Editor is shared in order to help clarify the contributor guidelines and improve the chances of submissions, of both new and previous contributors, being placed under review at HRDQ. This article explains the peer‐review process and describes the characteristics of a successful submission.
The Organizational Context and Performance Implications of Human Capital Investment Variability
Authors: Bhattacharya Mousumi , Harold Doty D. , Garavan Thomas
Published: March 2014

In contrast to the traditional focus of HRD on human capital accumulations we examine the issue of variability in human capital investment. Drawing on Real Options Theory, we theorize that larger firms and firms that are faced with greater organizational risk will create a greater number of options in terms of human capital investment decisions resulting over time in greater variability in labor costs. Based on a large sample of U.S. firms and longitudinal data, we found that labor cost variability was positively related to organizational risk and firm size, but negatively related to capital intensity. These relationships were significant even after controlling for employment variability. Overall, we found that in the long term, firms with greater variability in labor costs achieved better performance. Implications for strategic HRD theory and practice are discussed.
Parental occupational pesticide exposure and the risk of childhood leukemia in the offspring: Findings from the childhood leukemia international consortium
Authors: Bailey Helen D. , Fritschi Lin , Infante‐Rivard Claire , Glass Deborah C. , Miligi Lucia , Dockerty John D. , Lightfoot Tracy , Clavel Jacqueline , Roman Eve , Spector Logan G. , Kaatsch Peter , Metayer Catherine , Magnani Corrado , Milne Elizabeth , Polychronopoulou Sophia , Simpson Jill , Rudant Jérémie , Sidi Vasiliki , Rondelli Roberto , Orsi Laurent , Kang Alice Y. , Petridou Eleni , Schüz Joachim
Published: March 2014

Maternal occupational pesticide exposure during pregnancy and/or paternal occupational pesticide exposure around conception have been suggested to increase risk of leukemia in the offspring. With a view to providing insight in this area we pooled individual level data from 13 case‐control studies participating in the Childhood Leukemia International Consortium (CLIC). Occupational data were harmonized to a compatible format. Pooled individual analyses were undertaken using unconditional logistic regression. Using exposure data from mothers of 8,236 cases, and 14,850 controls, and from fathers of 8,169 cases and 14,201 controls the odds ratio (OR) for maternal exposure during pregnancy and the risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was 1.01 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.78, 1.30] and for paternal exposure around conception 1.20 (95% 1.06, 1.38). For acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the OR for maternal exposure during pregnancy was 1.94 (CI 1.19, 3.18) and for paternal exposure around conception 0.91 (CI 0.66, 1.24.) based on data from 1,329 case and 12,141 control mothers, and 1,231 case and 11,383 control fathers. Our finding of a significantly increased risk of AML in the offspring with maternal exposure to pesticides during pregnancy is consistent with previous reports. We also found a slight increase in risk of ALL with paternal exposure around conception which appeared to be more evident in children diagnosed at the age of 5 years or more and those with T cell ALL which raises interesting questions on possible mechanisms.
A novel transcript, VNN1‐AB, as a biomarker for colorectal cancer
Authors: Løvf Marthe , Nome Torfinn , Bruun Jarle , Eknæs Mette , Bakken Anne C. , Mpindi John P. , Kilpinen Sami , Rognum Torleiv O. , Nesbakken Arild , Kallioniemi Olli , Lothe Ragnhild A. , Skotheim Rolf I.
Published: March 2014

Colorectal cancer is a global health challenge with high incidence rate and mortality. The patients' prognosis is strongly associated with disease stage and currently there is a need for improved prognostic and predictive biomarkers. In this study, novel colorectal cancer‐specific transcript structures were nominated from whole transcriptome sequencing of seven colorectal cancer cell lines, two primary colorectal carcinomas with corresponding normal colonic mucosa and 16 normal tissues. The nominated transcripts were combined with gene level outlier expression analyses in a cohort of 505 colorectal cancers to identify biomarkers with capacity to stratify colorectal cancer subgroups. The transcriptome sequencing data and outlier expression analysis revealed 11 novel colorectal cancer‐specific exon–exon junctions, of which 3 were located in the gene VNN1. The junctions within VNN1 were further characterized using rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and the prevalence of the subsequently characterized novel transcript, VNN1‐AB, was investigated by real‐time RT‐PCR in 291 samples of miscellaneous origins. VNN1‐AB was not present in any of the 43 normal colorectal tissue samples investigated, but in 5 of the 6 polyps, and 102 of the 136 (75%) colorectal cancers. We have identified a novel transcript of the VNN1 gene, with an organ‐confined complete specificity for colorectal neoplasia.
Gene Regulatory Networks Governing Lung Specification
Authors: Rankin Scott A. , Zorn Aaron M.
Published: March 2014

The epithelial lining of the respiratory system originates from a small group of progenitor cells in the ventral foregut endoderm of the early embryo. Research in the last decade has revealed a number of paracrine signaling pathways that are critical for the development of these respiratory progenitors. In the post‐genomic era the challenge now is to figure out at the genome wide level how these different signaling pathways and their downstream transcription factors interact in a complex “gene regulatory network” (GRN) to orchestrate early lung development. In this prospective, we review our growing understanding of the GRN governing lung specification. We discuss key gaps in our knowledge and describe emerging opportunities that will soon provide an unprecedented understanding of lung development and accelerate our ability to apply this knowledge to regenerative medicine. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1343–1350, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pharmacokinetics of darunavir in fixed‐dose combination with cobicistat compared with coadministration of darunavir and ritonavir as single agents in healthy volunteers
Authors: Kakuda Thomas N. , Opsomer Magda , Timmers Maarten , Iterbeke Koen , Van De Casteele Tom , Hillewaert Vera , Petrovic Romana , Hoetelmans Richard M. W.
Published: March 2014

This study compared the bioavailability of two candidate fixed‐dose combinations (FDCs: G003 and G004) of darunavir/cobicistat 800/150 mg with that of darunavir 800 mg and ritonavir 100 mg coadministered as single agents. Short‐term safety and tolerability of the FDC formulations were also assessed. This open‐label trial included 36 healthy volunteers and assessed steady‐state pharmacokinetics of darunavir over 3 randomized, 10‐day treatment sequences, under fed conditions. Blood samples for determination of plasma concentrations of darunavir and cobicistat or ritonavir were taken over 24 hours on day 10 and analyzed by liquid‐chromatography tandem mass‐spectroscopy. Darunavir AUC24h following administration of the FDCs (G003: 74,780 ng ∙ h/mL and G004: 76,490 ng ∙ h/mL) was comparable to that following darunavir/ritonavir (78,410 ng ∙ h/mL), as was Cmax (6,666 and 6,917 ng/mL versus 6,973 ng/mL, respectively). Modestly lower C0h (1,504 and 1,478 ng/mL versus 2,015 ng/mL) and Cmin (1,167 and 1,224 ng/mL versus 1,540 ng/mL) values were seen with the FDCs. Short‐term tolerability of the FDCs was comparable to that of darunavir/ritonavir when administered as single agents. The most common adverse events reported were headache, gastrointestinal upset, or rash. Cobicistat is an effective pharmacoenhancer of darunavir when administered as an FDC. Short‐term administration of darunavir/ritonavir or darunavir/cobicistat was generally well tolerated.
Melting of Gelatin Gels Containing Laponite, Montmorillonite, and Chitosan Particles
Authors: Prado J. Rachel , Vyazovkin Sergey
Published: March 2014

This research examines the effect of the addition of laponite, montmorillonite, and chitosan particles on the melting of gelatin gels. The effect is probed by combining calorimetric measurements with isoconversional kinetic analysis. It is found that the addition of the particles tends to increase the heat of melting and decrease the melting temperature. Although the addition of the particles results in a raising of the energy barrier to melting, the pre‐exponential factors increase as well, causing acceleration of the melting process and decreasing the thermal stability of the gels. The observed effects are explained in terms of the gel structure.

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Stratified Polymer Brushes from Microcontact Printing of Polydopamine Initiator on Polymer Brush Surfaces
Authors: Wei Qiangbing , Yu Bo , Wang Xiaolong , Zhou Feng
Published: March 2014

Stratified polymer brushes are fabricated using microcontact printing (μCP) of initiator integrated polydopamine (PDOPBr) on polymer brush surfaces and the following surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI‐ATRP). It is found that the surface energy, chemically active groups, and the antifouling ability of the polymer brushes affect transfer efficiency and adhesive stability of the polydopamine film. The stickiness of the PDOPBr pattern on polymer brush surfaces is stable enough to perform continuous μCP and SI‐ATRP to prepare stratified polymer brushes with a 3D topography, which have broad applications in cell and protein patterning, biosensors, and hybrid surfaces.

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Projective synchronization of time‒delayed chaotic systems with unknown parameters using adaptive control method
Authors: Ansari Sana Parveen , Das Subir
Published: March 2014

The present article aims to study the projective synchronization between two identical and non‒identical time‒delayed chaotic systems with fully unknown parameters. Here the asymptotical and global synchronization are achieved by means of adaptive control approach based on Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional theory. The proposed technique is successfully applied to investigate the projective synchronization for the pairs of time‒delayed chaotic systems amongst advanced Lorenz system as drive system with multiple delay Rössler system and time‒delayed Chua's oscillator as response system. An adaptive controller and parameter update laws for unknown parameters are designed so that the drive system is controlled to be the response system. Numerical simulation results, depicted graphically, are carried out using Runge–Kutta Method for delay‒differential equations, showing that the design of controller and the adaptive parameter laws are very effective and reliable and can be applied for synchronization of time‒delayed chaotic systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the signal‐to‐noise ratio efficiency and slab‐banding artifacts in three‐dimensional multislab diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging
Authors: Engström Mathias , Mårtensson Magnus , Avventi Enrico , Skare Stefan
Published: March 2014

Purpose

Three‐dimensional (3D) multislab diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging (EPI) has been suggested as an alternative for high‐resolution diffusion‐weighted imaging. In this work, the key components of the sequence are investigated, optimal scan parameter settings suggested, and a signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) analysis, comparing 2D diffusion‐weighted EPI and 3D multislab diffusion‐weighted EPI, is performed.

Methods

Slab profiles were measured using 3D multislab EPI to investigate slab profile saturation effects with respect to TR, T1 and overlap between slabs. For short TR values, two methods to reduce the slab banding artifacts are proposed. Moreover, the SNR for 2D and 3D multislab (3D‐MS) DWI have been simulated for various anatomical coverages and slab thicknesses.

Results

Simulated 3D multislab scans were shown to be more SNR‐efficient than a corresponding 2D scan, for all investigated anatomical coverages and slab thicknesses. Slab banding artifacts being negligible for long repetition times (TRs) were strong for a TR of 2000 ms, proving that they stem from T1‐saturation effects. This banding was largely reduced by the suggested correction methods.

Conclusion

In the low TR regime, T1‐saturation effects between adjacent slabs need to be taken in consideration to avoid slab‐banding artifacts for multislab sequences. With the proposed correction methods the difference between the SNR‐optimal TR and the TR where slab‐banding artifacts become acceptable is reduced. Magn Reson Med 73:718–725, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(ethylene terephthalate)/glass fiber composites
Authors: Zhang Zhonghou , Feng Li , Li Yadong , Wang Yintao , Yan Chunmian
Published: March 2014

The influences of the glass fiber (GF) content and the cooling rate for nonisothermal crystallization process of poly(butylene terephthalate)/poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PBT/PET) blends were investigated. The nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of samples were detected by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at cooling rates of 5°C/min, 10°C/min, 15°C/min, 20°C/min, 25°C/min, respectively. The Jeziony and Mozhishen methods were used to analyze the DSC data. The crystalline morphology of samples was observed with polarized light microscope. Results showed that the Jeziony and Mozhishen methods were available for the analysis of the nonisothermal crystallization process. The peaks of crystallization temperature (Tp) move to low temperature with the cooling rate increasing, crystallization half‐time (t1/2) decrease accordingly. The crystallization rate of PBT/PET blends increase with the lower GF contents while it is baffled by higher GF contents. POLYM. COMPOS. 36:510–516, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Successful Use of Fondaparinux Early After Mechanical Aortic Valve Replacement in a Patient with a History of Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Willenborg Katie L.
Published: March 2014

Thromboembolic complications such as systemic embolization and valve thrombosis are a major concern early after mechanical valve replacement; however, the benefit of anticoagulation must be weighed against the risk of early postoperative bleeding complications. Thromboembolic risk is also higher in the early postoperative period (less than  6 mo) compared with the risk in the late postoperative period. Current evidence supports the use of unfractionated heparin or low‐molecular‐weight heparin early after valve replacement to prevent valve thrombosis or systemic embolization but provides no recommendations for the management of patients with a history of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), in which heparin products are contraindicated. We describe the use of fondaparinux early after aortic mechanical valve replacement in a 63‐year‐old, 95‐kg woman with a history of HIT. Fondaparinux was initiated on postoperative day 2 at a prophylactic dose of 2.5 mg subcutaneously daily; the dose was increased to a therapeutic weight‐based dose of 7.5 mg subcutaneously daily on postoperative day 3. Warfarin was initiated on postoperative day 1, and fondaparinux was continued until a therapeutic international normalized ratio was achieved. The patient was discharged from the hospital receiving warfarin alone on postoperative day 6. No signs or symptoms of thrombosis or bleeding were noted during or after fondaparinux therapy or at hospital follow‐up visits. To our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe the use of fondaparinux within the first 48 hours after mechanical valve replacement in a patient with a history of HIT. This case suggests that fondaparinux may be a safe and effective option to prevent thromboembolic complications early after mechanical valve replacement when heparin products are contraindicated.