bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Reputation and Customer Brand Switching Behavior in Sri Lankan Telecommunication Industry
Authors: Jayawickramarathna S. G. W. K .
Published: May 2015

In the fiercely competitive telecommunication industry in Sri Lanka, companies tend to focus on the respective customer base without just limiting to the new customers. In this competition, the existing customers are exposed to variety of offers from the competing firms and this may be a persuasive message for the customer to switch the service provider. The corporate reputation of a company can provide a competitive edge to ensure the growth and the survival in a highly competitive environment. This study attempts to assess the impact of corporate reputation on customers brand switching behavior. The study sampled 350 individual customers who have been using the mobile service at a minimum of one year. The data were collected using self administered questionnaires. The study found that the direct impact of firms’ corporate reputation on customers brand switching behavior is significant while some of the major components of corporate reputation are with a greater contribution. Among the determinants of the corporate reputation the emotional appeal and the products and services play a large role in building the customers perception towards the corporate reputation of a firm that will lead to the switching behavior. The firm’s corporate reputation could help the marketability of its products or services and it also trigger the positive perception of quality and value of products or services in the mind of their potential customers. The findings of this study provide important implications to the telecommunication operators in their effort to increase their customer base and, more importantly, to ensure the interest of the customers towards the organization.The Kelaniya Journal of Management, Vol. 3(2); 2014: 68-84
Perceived Social Support and Academic Engagement
Authors: Jayarathna L. C. H.
Published: May 2015

When students switch to higher education, they experience substantial stress and declines in performance in academic works. Perceived social support is supposed to improve academic performance by reducing stress. This study examined the influence from perceived social support of the management undergraduates in Sri Lanka on their academic engagement level. Participants include first year management undergraduates in five selected state universities in Sri Lanka. Adapted scales based on student engagement scale of NSSE and multidimensional scale of perceived social support was used as the measuring instruments. According to the findings, in Sri Lanka also social support plays a significant role in the level of academic engagement of a first year undergraduate. Furthermore, out of three aspects identified on social support social support from family and friends were significantly affecting to the undergraduates’ academic engagement level but not the social support from a significant other. Hence, as per the prior scholars’ findings, undergraduates perceive that their social support level as a supportive factor for their academic works. It may cause to reduce their stress raised due to the significant change from school to university at the very first time period.The Kelaniya Journal of Management, Vol. 3(2); 2014: 85-92
Buddhism and Organizational Management: A Review
Authors: Weerasinghe T.D. , Thisera T.J.R. , Kumara R.H.G.W.P.
Published: May 2015

Organizational Management is one of the exciting themes in modern economies nowadays. An organization is a collection of people working together towards a common target. The basic building block of any organization is its people; employees. Managing an organization is ultimately getting things done through employees. Hence, more humanistic and pragmatic ways of organizational management which excel in managerial competencies are needed to sustain in this modern turbulent environment. It could be seen that Buddhist 'Sanga Communities' were organizations which excelled in managerial skills. Buddhism offers a pragmatic and an interesting perspective on the proper application of modern organizational management practices. This conceptual paper is done with the objective of exploring the implications of Buddhist perspectives such as moderation, impermanency, the belief in no-self, five precepts, eightfold path, mindfulness and self-discipline, collectivistic view of team building, value of self-sacrifices for the common good, mutual respect, seven reconciliation rules and four bases of sympathy could manifest themselves in a number of different aspects of modern organizational management. This paper explores the application of those Buddhist concepts and practices in areas of organizational management including interpersonal relations, ethical behavior, emotional intelligence, team building, communication, leadership, conflict management, personal development, good governance, group harmony, goal setting, performance management, knowledge management, and in broader sense managing people at work. The paper suggests that Buddhist concepts and practices are effective to be applied in organizational management and that those concepts and practices have more universal application which could improve the organizational productivity as the end result. It is recommended for modern managers to be mindful, compassionate and flexible, open minded, and recognize that nothing is permanent. In conclusion the Buddhist perspective of organizational management is about accepting change, creating harmony among employees and treating all with dignity and respect to achieve the ultimate goals of the organization. The Kelaniya Journal of Management, Vol. 3(2); 2014: 93-112
Instruments for global fisheries management - A review
Authors: Hettiarachchi A.
Published: May 2015

The impact of uncontrolled expansion of fishing activities on living marine resources has been a subject of discussion among the world community since 1940s. With a view to preventing over-exploitation of marine living resources, coastal States and other States have concluded a number of treaties, and established several regional fisheries organizations. However, even with these treaties and • organizations in force, fishing activities in the oceans have expanded in an uncontrolled manner leading to depletion of certain fish stocks. Meanwhile the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 (UNCLOS) provided a framework for governance of all oceanic affairs including exploitation of living resources. UNCLOS provided for coastal States to manage living resources within 200 nautical-mile exclusive economic zones and thereby brought nearly 90% of the living marine resources under the control of coastal States. UNCLOS also made provisions for managing and conserving living marine resources that occur outside the jurisdiction of coastal States. Under the provisions of UNCLOS a convention has been concluded for the purpose of conserving and managing migratory and straddling fish stocks. The Food and Agriculture Organization also has made several instruments to conserve and manage living marine resources. This paper analyzes these instruments, which are now in force. To achieve the objectives of these instruments the will and active involvement of the fishing nations are essential.
Population dynamics of three commercially important bivalve species (Family: Veneridae) in Puttalam lagoon and Dutch bay, Sri Lanka
Authors: Kithsiri H.M.P. , Wijeyaratne M.J.S. , Amarasinghe U.S.
Published: May 2015

The present study was carried out to investigate the population dynamics of three bivalve species, viz, Gafrarium tumidum, Marcia hiantina and Marcia opima in Dutch bay and Puttalam lagoon, Sri Lanka, in order to make recommendations for sustainable exploitation of these resources. The growth performance index (Ø) for the three species calculated from asymptotic length and growth constant, which were estimated using Compleat ELEFAN software package, ranged from 3.19 to 3.48 in Dutch bay and from 3.18 to 3.40 in Puttalam lagoon. The slightly better growth performance in Dutch bay may be due to more favourable environmental conditions than in Puttalam lagoon.In Dutch bay, M. hiantina and M. opima which were less abundant, were heavily exploited, as opposed to the most abundant G. tumidum, which was least exploited. Exploitation rates of G. tumidum, M. hiantina and M. opima were 0.30, 0.83, and 0.73 respectively. Two recruitment pulses occurred in the three bivalve populations in Puttalam lagoon while a single recruitment pulse occurred in Dutch bay. As such, the three bivalve populations in Puttalam lagoon appear to be "r - selected" while those in Dutch bay appear to be “K- selected". This study revealed that the three bivalve species occurring in Dutch bay could support a small-scale fishery.
The diet composition of some economically important fishes in the three floodplain lakes in Agusan Marsh wildlife sanctuary in the Philippines
Authors: Talde Cheryl M. , Mamaril SR Augustus C. , Palomares Maria Lourdes D.
Published: May 2015

Food of freshwater fishes in the three floodplain lakes in Agusan Marsh, Philippines were identified and quantified. Different types of gear, namely, two types of hook and line, traps and scoop nets were used to collect samples. Results indicated that the volume of food in the guts of Channa striata, Trichogaster pectoralis, Trichogaster trichopterus, Anabas testudineus, Oreochrotnis niloticus and Clarias batracitus was generally larger during flood months than during the dry season. Feeding activity varies as water level fluctuates. Incidence of empty stomachs in Channa striata markedly increased as the dry season proceeded. Relative importance index showed that in the floodplain ecosystem, the utilization of detritus especially among belontids, cichlids and cyprinids was high.
Rearing of larvae of giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii up to postlarvae using different feeds
Authors: Asoka J.M. , Hettiarachchi M.
Published: May 2015

Ability to produce seed (postlarvae) of giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, for stocking in various culture facilities was a breakthrough in aquaculture in Sri Lanka. However, high cost of Anemia cysts and their occasional scarcity are the major concerns as live Artemia nauplii are considered to be the only suitable larval food for M. rosenbergii. During the present study, a feed for postlarvae of M. rosenbergii was prepared and its performance was evaluated in relation to some other feeds with a view to reduce the use of live Artemia nauplii in the rearing of larvae of this species. No larvae survived beyond the 6th larval stage when they were fed 6 meal's day' with egg custard, egg and mussel meat custard, spray dried algal cells ofSchizochytrium sp., a commercially available liquid shrimp feed and the prepared feed separately, each as single feed. The ingredients were 20% powdered milk, 6.8% corn flour, 40% eggs, 30% wet shrimp, 1.0% cod liver oil, 1.0% vitamin mineral mixture, 1.0% agar powder and 0.2% tetracycline. The best feeding regime was 6 meals of Artemia nauplii per day followed by the feeding regime of 3 meals of Anemia nauplii and 3 meals of prepared feed per day when percentage survival (10.35% and 9.28% respectively), mean total length achieved at the end of metamorphosis (9.078 ± 2.828 mm and 7.896 ± 2.812 mm respectively) and time taken to complete metamorphosis by 50% of larvae (40.42 ± 1.38 days and 48.42 ± 2.23 days respectively) were considered, when compared to the two other feeding regimes tested, viz,Artemia nauplii plus spray dried algal cells and Artemia nauplii plus liquid shrimp feed. Therefore, the feeding regime of 3 meals of Artemia nauplii and 3 meals of feed prepared during this study could be recommended in order to reduce the heavy use of costly Artemia nauplii in rearing the larvae of giant freshwater prawn, M. rosenbergii.
Limnology of Kandy Lake before the outbreak of cyanobacteria bloom in May 1999. I. Physicochemical characteristics
Authors: Silva E.I.L. , Samaradiwakara S.R.M.S.
Published: May 2015

The Kandy Lake, a man-made water body, located in the heart of the second largest city of the island adjoining the world-renowned Buddhist temple, was examined for its physicochemical characteristics. Monthly sampling was carried out at four sites for a period of two years (September 1996-August 1998) and physicochemical characteristics and nutrient concentrations were analyzed to determine the spatial and temporal patterns of the basic limnological features. Physicochemical characteristics of surface water in the Kandy lake did not show significant spatial variability depicting a homogeneous nature but, marked vertical gradients of some parameters were noted in the deeper basin. Although, annual range of surface temperature varied within the tropical range, a temperature/ density micro-stratification was prominent under calm conditions.Bicarbonate and calcium dominant alkaline lake water was about three fold conductive than the inland surface waters found at similar elevations. Alkaline water becomes acidic in the deeper layers and the water column of the deep basin was characterised with a clinograde oxygen profile with the incidents of anoxia. The ratio of total inorganic-N to total-P indicated phosphorous limiting conditions but concentrations of reactive phosphorous were available for 'rapid uptake by phytoplankton. The dynamic fluctuations of NO2-N and NO3-N and the upper limit of NH4-N, the most dominant nitrogen species indicate extremely high heterotrophic potential in the bottom water under less oxygen conditions.
An investigation on the quality and handling practices of skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) along the main commercial distribution channels of Beruwala fishery harbour
Authors: Arachchi G.J. Ganegama , Kariyawasam M.G.I.U. , Heenatigala P.P.M. , Ariyaratne D.S , Dahanayeka T. , Jayasinghe J.M.P.K.
Published: May 2015

Beruwala fishery harbour is one of the main fish-landing sites in Kalutara district in the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. Skipjack tuna (Katsuwanus pelamis) is one of the major constituents of the catch of multi-day boats (MDRs) operated from this harbour. The marine fish catch landed in this district in 2001 was around 32110 mt. Recent studies based on sensory evaluation have shown that the post harvest loss of skipjack tuna at Beruwala fishery harbour is around 27±115%. Main objective of this study was to investigate the quality deterioration of skipjack tuna at different handling stages along the main commercial distribution channel starting from MDBs operating from Beruwala fishery harbour to final retailing stage that ends up at Matugama and Horana and to suggest remedial measures to reduce the quality deterioration along the handling chain. Mean Aerobic Plate Count (APC) of skinned fish from MDBs and pier were log 5.20±1.10 cfu/g and log 5.35±1.20 cfu/g respectively. APC of fish from transport vehicle, fish stall and retailed stage along Matugama channel were log 6.16±0.94 cfu/g, log 7.08±0.96 cfu/g and log 6.96±0.46 cfu/g respectively. In Horana distribution channel mean APC were log 5.14±0.71 cfu/g, log 6.13±t0.49 cfu/g and log 6.40±0.15 cfu/g in fish from vehicle, stall and retailed stage respectively. E.cail were positive (>10 cfu) in 17%, 43%, 50%, 87% and 100% of flesh (skinned) samples of skipjack tuna in MDB, at pier, in transport vehicle, at stall and retailed stage respectively. E.coli were found in skin-on samples from all stages and the range detected was 102-103cfu/g. The average ambient temperature recorded on board of the MDB during fishing trip was 29.8°C with a variation of ± 3.7°C. Core temperature of fish stored in fish hold in MDB, at pier, inside transport vehicle and stall in market were 2.7±2.1°C, 6.3±4.1 °C, 13.0±2.5°C and 17.0±2.4°C respectively. Fish is stored in fish hold of the MDB for about 7 days and after unloading, fish reaches retail shop within around 5 h. Based on criteria for levels of APC, six out of nine lots of fish were acceptable, in MDB, at pier and in vehicle. At retail stalls only three out of nine fish lots were acceptable. Average trimethyl amine (TMA) and total volatile base (TVB) contents of fish in all stages were found in the ranges of 7.67-11.89 mg/100g and 13.65-26.92 mg/100g respectively. Poor infrastructure and bad handling practices in boat, pier, transport vehicle, retail markets are found to be responsible for quality deterioration along distribution channel, which results in poor quality of fish available for consumers.
Repression of Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 Inhibits Intestinal Regeneration in Acute Inflammatory Bowel Disease Models
Authors: Guan Yuting , Zhang Long , Li Xia , Zhang Xinyan , Liu Shijie , Gao Na , Li Liang , Gao Ganglong , Wei Gaigai , Chen Zhaohua , Zheng Yansen , Ma Xueyun , Siwko Stefan , Chen Jin-Lian , Liu Mingyao , Li Dali
Published: May 2015

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway integrates environmental cues to regulate cell growth and survival through various mechanisms. However, how mTORC1 responds to acute inflammatory signals to regulate bowel regeneration is still obscure. In this study, we investigated the role of mTORC1 in acute inflammatory bowel disease. Inhibition of mTORC1 activity by rapamycin treatment or haploinsufficiency of Rheb through genetic modification in mice impaired intestinal cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis, leading to high mortality in dextran sodium sulfate– and 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid–induced colitis models. Through bone marrow transplantation, we found that mTORC1 in nonhematopoietic cells played a major role in protecting mice from colitis. Reactivation of mTORC1 activity by amino acids had a positive therapeutic effect in mTORC1-deficient Rheb+/− mice. Mechanistically, mTORC1 mediated IL-6–induced Stat3 activation in intestinal epithelial cells to stimulate the expression of downstream targets essential for cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. Therefore, mTORC1 signaling critically protects against inflammatory bowel disease through modulation of inflammation-induced Stat3 activity. As mTORC1 is an important therapeutic target for multiple diseases, our findings will have important implications for the clinical usage of mTORC1 inhibitors in patients with acute inflammatory bowel disease.
Dendritic Cell–Based Vaccines that Utilize Myeloid Rather than Plasmacytoid Cells Offer a Superior Survival Advantage in Malignant Glioma
Authors: Dey Mahua , Chang Alan L. , Miska Jason , Wainwright Derek A. , Ahmed Atique U. , Balyasnikova Irina V. , Pytel Peter , Han Yu , Tobias Alex , Zhang Lingjiao , Qiao Jian , Lesniak Maciej S.
Published: May 2015

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional APCs that are traditionally divided into two distinct subsets, myeloid DC (mDCs) and plasmacytoid DC (pDCs). pDCs are known for their ability to secrete large amounts of IFN-α. Apart from IFN-α production, pDCs can also process Ag and induce T cell immunity or tolerance. In several solid tumors, pDCs have been shown to play a critical role in promoting tumor immunosuppression. We investigated the role of pDCs in the process of glioma progression in the syngeneic murine model of glioma. We show that glioma-infiltrating pDCs are the major APC in glioma and are deficient in IFN-α secretion (p < 0.05). pDC depletion leads to increased survival of the mice bearing intracranial tumor by decreasing the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and by decreasing the suppressive capabilities of Tregs. We subsequently compared the ability of mDCs and pDCs to generate effective antiglioma immunity in a GL261-OVA mouse model of glioma. Our data suggest that mature pDCs and mDCs isolated from naive mice can be effectively activated and loaded with SIINFEKL Ag in vitro. Upon intradermal injection in the hindleg, a fraction of both types of DCs migrate to the brain and lymph nodes. Compared to mice vaccinated with pDC or control mice, mice vaccinated with mDCs generate a robust Th1 type immune response, characterized by high frequency of CD4+T-bet+ T cells and CD8+SIINFEKEL+ T cells. This robust antitumor T cell response results in tumor eradication and long-term survival in 60% of the animals (p < 0.001).
Reduced Fluorescence versus Forward Scatter Time-of-Flight and Increased Peak versus Integral Fluorescence Ratios Indicate Receptor Clustering in Flow Cytometry
Authors: Fürnrohr Barbara G. , Stein Merle , Rhodes Benjamin , Chana Prabhjoat S. , Schett Georg , Vyse Timothy J. , Herrmann Martin , Mielenz Dirk
Published: May 2015

Clustering of surface receptors is often required to initiate signal transduction, receptor internalization, and cellular activation. To study the kinetics of clustering, we developed an economic high-throughput method using flow cytometry. The quantification of receptor clustering by flow cytometry is based on the following two observations: first, the fluorescence signal length (FL time-of-flight [ToF]) decreases relative to the forward scatter signal length (FSc-ToF), and second, the peak FL (FL-peak) increases relative to the integral FL (FL-integral) upon clustering of FL-labeled surface receptors. Receptor macroclustering can therefore be quantified using the ratios FL-ToF/FSc-ToF (method ToF) or FL-peak/FL-integral (method Peak). We have used these methods to analyze clustering of two immune receptors known to undergo different conformational and oligomeric states: the BCR and the complement receptor 3 (CR3), on murine splenocytes, purified B cells, and human neutrophils. Engagement of both the BCR and CR3, on immortalized as well as primary murine B cells and human neutrophil, respectively, resulted in decreased FL-ToF/FSc-ToF and increased FL-peak/FL-integral ratios. Manipulation of the actin-myosin cytoskeleton altered BCR clustering which could be measured using the established parameters. To confirm clustering of CR3 on neutrophils, we applied imaging flow cytometry. Because receptor engagement is as a biological process dependent on cell viability, energy metabolism, and temperature, receptor clustering can only be quantified by gating on viable cells under physiological conditions. In summary, with this novel method, receptor clustering on nonadherent cells can easily be monitored by high-throughput conventional flow cytometry.
Deficiency of CD40 Reveals an Important Role for LIGHT in Anti-Leishmania Immunity
Authors: Okwor Ifeoma , Xu Guilian , Tang Haidong , Liang Yong , Fu Yang-Xin , Uzonna Jude E.
Published: May 2015

We previously showed that LIGHT and its receptor herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM) are important for development of optimal CD4+ Th1 cell immunity and resistance to primary Leishmania major infection in mice. In this study, we further characterized the contributions of this molecule in dendritic cell (DC) maturation, initiation, and maintenance of primary immunity and secondary anti-Leishmania immunity. Flow-cytometric studies showed that CD8α+ DC subset was mostly affected by HVEM-Ig and lymphotoxin β receptor-Ig treatment. LIGHT signaling is required at both the priming and the maintenance stages of primary anti-Leishmania immunity but is completely dispensable during secondary immunity in wild type mice. However, LIGHT blockade led to impaired IL-12 and IFN-γ responses and loss of resistance in healed CD40-deficient mice after L. major challenge. The protective effect of LIGHT was mediated primarily via its interaction with lymphotoxin β receptor on CD8α+ DCs. Collectively, our results show that although LIGHT is critical for maintenance of primary Th1 response, it is dispensable during secondary anti-Leishmania immunity in the presence of functional CD40 signaling as seen in wild type mice.
Structural Analysis of Der p 1–Antibody Complexes and Comparison with Complexes of Proteins or Peptides with Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Osinski Tomasz , Pomés Anna , Majorek Karolina A. , Glesner Jill , Offermann Lesa R. , Vailes Lisa D. , Chapman Martin D. , Minor Wladek , Chruszcz Maksymilian
Published: May 2015

Der p 1 is a major allergen from the house dust mite, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, that belongs to the papain-like cysteine protease family. To investigate the antigenic determinants of Der p 1, we determined two crystal structures of Der p 1 in complex with the Fab fragments of mAbs 5H8 or 10B9. Epitopes for these two Der p 1–specific Abs are located in different, nonoverlapping parts of the Der p 1 molecule. Nevertheless, surface area and identity of the amino acid residues involved in hydrogen bonds between allergen and Ab are similar. The epitope for mAb 10B9 only showed a partial overlap with the previously reported epitope for mAb 4C1, a cross-reactive mAb that binds Der p 1 and its homolog Der f 1 from Dermatophagoides farinae. Upon binding to Der p 1, the Fab fragment of mAb 10B9 was found to form a very rare α helix in its third CDR of the H chain. To provide an overview of the surface properties of the interfaces formed by the complexes of Der p 1–10B9 and Der p 1–5H8, along with the complexes of 4C1 with Der p 1 and Der f 1, a broad analysis of the surfaces and hydrogen bonds of all complexes of Fab–protein or Fab–peptide was performed. This work provides detailed insight into the cross-reactive and specific allergen–Ab interactions in group 1 mite allergens. The surface data of Fab–protein and Fab–peptide interfaces can be used in the design of conformational epitopes with reduced Ab binding for immunotherapy.
PRMT1 Upregulated by Epithelial Proinflammatory Cytokines Participates in COX2 Expression in Fibroblasts and Chronic Antigen-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation
Authors: Sun Qingzhu , Liu Li , Roth Michael , Tian Jia , He Qirui , Zhong Bo , Bao Ruanjuan , Lan Xi , Jiang Congshan , Sun Jian , Yang Xudong , Lu Shemin
Published: May 2015

Protein arginine methyltransferase (PRMT)1, methylating both histones and key cellular proteins, has emerged as a key regulator of various cellular processes. This study aimed to identify the mechanism that regulates PRMT1 in chronic Ag-induced pulmonary inflammation (AIPI) in the E3 rat asthma model. E3 rats were challenged with OVA for 1 or 8 wk to induce acute or chronic AIPI. Expression of mRNAs was detected by real-time quantitative PCR. PRMT1, TGF-β, COX2, and vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression in lung tissues was determined by immunohistochemistry staining and Western blotting. In the in vitro study, IL-4–stimulated lung epithelial cell (A549) medium (ISEM) with or without anti–TGF-β Ab was applied to human fibroblasts from lung (HFL1). The proliferation of HFL1 was determined by MTT. AMI-1 (pan-PRMT inhibitor) was administered intranasally to chronic AIPI rats to determine PRMT effects on asthmatic parameters. In lung tissue sections, PRMT1 expression was significantly upregulated, mainly in epithelial cells, in acute AIPI lungs, whereas it was significantly upregulated mainly in fibroblasts in chronic AIPI lungs. The in vitro study revealed that ISEM elevates PRMT1, COX2, and vascular endothelial growth factor expressions, and it promoted fibroblast proliferation. The application of anti–TGF-β Ab suppressed COX2 upregulation by ISEM. AMI-1 inhibited the expression of COX2 in TGF-β–stimulated cells. In the in vivo experiment, AMI-1 administered to AIPI rats reduced COX2 production and humoral immune response, and it abrogated mucus secretion and collagen generation. These findings suggested that TGF-β–induced PRMT1 expression participates in fibroblast proliferation and chronic airway inflammation in AIPI.
A Novel Small-Molecule Inhibitor Targeting the IL-6 Receptor β Subunit, Glycoprotein 130
Authors: Hong Soon-Sun , Choi Jung Ho , Lee Sung Yoon , Park Yeon-Hwa , Park Kyung-Yeon , Lee Joo Young , Kim Juyoung , Gajulapati Veeraswamy , Goo Ja-Il , Singh Sarbjit , Lee Kyeong , Kim Young-Kook , Im So Hee , Ahn Sung-Hoon , Rose-John Stefan , Heo Tae-Hwe , Choi Yongseok
Published: May 2015

IL-6 is a major causative factor of inflammatory disease. Although IL-6 and its signaling pathways are promising targets, orally available small-molecule drugs specific for IL-6 have not been developed. To discover IL-6 antagonists, we screened our in-house chemical library and identified LMT-28, a novel synthetic compound, as a candidate IL-6 blocker. The activity, mechanism of action, and direct molecular target of LMT-28 were investigated. A reporter gene assay showed that LMT-28 suppressed activation of STAT3 induced by IL-6, but not activation induced by leukemia inhibitory factor. In addition, LMT-28 downregulated IL-6–stimulated phosphorylation of STAT3, gp130, and JAK2 protein and substantially inhibited IL-6–dependent TF-1 cell proliferation. LMT-28 antagonized IL-6–induced TNF-α production in vivo. In pathologic models, oral administration of LMT-28 alleviated collagen-induced arthritis and acute pancreatitis in mice. Based on the observation of upstream IL-6 signal inhibition by LMT-28, we hypothesized IL-6, IL-6Rα, or gp130 to be putative molecular targets. We subsequently demonstrated direct interaction of LMT-28 with gp130 and specific reduction of IL-6/IL-6Rα complex binding to gp130 in the presence of LMT-28, which was measured by surface plasmon resonance analysis. Taken together, our data suggest that LMT-28 is a novel synthetic IL-6 inhibitor that functions through direct binding to gp130.
Airway-Resident Memory CD8 T Cells Provide Antigen-Specific Protection against Respiratory Virus Challenge through Rapid IFN-γ Production
Authors: McMaster Sean R. , Wilson Jarad J. , Wang Hong , Kohlmeier Jacob E.
Published: May 2015

CD8 airway resident memory T (TRM) cells are a distinctive TRM population with a high turnover rate and a unique phenotype influenced by their localization within the airways. Their role in mediating protective immunity to respiratory pathogens, although suggested by many studies, has not been directly proven. This study provides definitive evidence that airway CD8 TRM cells are sufficient to mediate protection against respiratory virus challenge. Despite being poorly cytolytic in vivo and failing to expand after encountering Ag, airway CD8 TRM cells rapidly express effector cytokines, with IFN-γ being produced most robustly. Notably, established airway CD8 TRM cells possess the ability to produce IFN-γ faster than systemic effector memory CD8 T cells. Furthermore, naive mice receiving intratracheal transfer of airway CD8 TRM cells lacking the ability to produce IFN-γ were less effective at controlling pathogen load upon heterologous challenge. This direct evidence of airway CD8 TRM cell–mediated protection demonstrates the importance of these cells as a first line of defense for optimal immunity against respiratory pathogens and suggests they should be considered in the development of future cell-mediated vaccines.
Reconstituted High-Density Lipoprotein Attenuates Cholesterol Crystal–Induced Inflammatory Responses by Reducing Complement Activation
Authors: Niyonzima Nathalie , Samstad Eivind O. , Aune Marie H. , Ryan Liv , Bakke Siril S. , Rokstad Anne Mari , Wright Samuel D. , Damås Jan K. , Mollnes Tom E. , Latz Eicke , Espevik Terje
Published: May 2015

Chronic inflammation of the arterial wall is a key element in the development of atherosclerosis, and cholesterol crystals (CC) that accumulate in plaques are associated with initiation and progression of the disease. We recently revealed a link between the complement system and CC-induced inflammasome caspase-1 activation, showing that the complement system is a key trigger in CC-induced inflammation. HDL exhibits cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties thought to explain its inverse correlation to cardiovascular risk. In this study, we sought to determine the effect of reconstituted HDL (rHDL) on CC-induced inflammation in a human whole blood model. rHDL bound to CC and inhibited the CC-induced complement activation as measured by soluble terminal C5b-9 formation and C3c deposition on the CC surface. rHDL attenuated the amount of CC-induced complement receptor 3 (CD11b/CD18) expression on monocytes and granulocytes, as well as reactive oxygen species generation. Moreover, addition of CC to whole blood resulted in release of proinflammatory cytokines that were inhibited by rHDL. Our results support and extend the notion that CC are potent triggers of inflammation, and that rHDL may have a beneficial role in controlling the CC-induced inflammatory responses by inhibiting complement deposition on the crystals.
Lymphoid Gene Upregulation on Circulating Progenitors Participates in Their T-Lineage Commitment
Authors: Zepponi Vanessa , Michaels Lopez Victoria , Martinez-Cingolani Carolina , Boudil Amine , Pasqualetto Valérie , Skhiri Lamia , Gautreau Laetitia , Legrand Agnès , Megret Jerome , Zavala Flora , Ezine Sophie
Published: May 2015

Extrathymic T cell precursors can be detected in many tissues and represent an immediately competent population for rapid T cell reconstitution in the event of immunodeficiencies. Blood T cell progenitors have been detected, but their source in the bone marrow (BM) remains unclear. Prospective purification of BM-resident and circulating progenitors, together with RT-PCR single-cell analysis, was used to evaluate and compare multipotent progenitors (MPPs) and common lymphoid progenitors (CLPs). Molecular analysis of circulating progenitors in comparison with BM-resident progenitors revealed that CCR9+ progenitors are more abundant in the blood than CCR7+ progenitors. Second, although Flt3− CLPs are less common in the BM, they are abundant in the blood and have reduced Cd25+-expressing cells and downregulated c-Kit and IL-7Rα intensities. Third, in contrast, stage 3 MPP (MPP3) cells, the unique circulating MPP subset, have upregulated Il7r, Gata3, and Notch1 in comparison with BM-resident counterparts. Evaluation of the populations’ respective abilities to generate splenic T cell precursors (Lin−Thy1.2+CD25+IL7Rα+) after grafting recipient nude mice revealed that MPP3 cells were the most effective subset (relative to CLPs). Although several lymphoid genes are expressed by MPP3 cells and Flt3− CLPs, the latter only give rise to B cells in the spleen, and Notch1 expression level is not modulated in the blood, as for MPP3 cells. We conclude that CLPs have reached the point where they cannot be a Notch1 target, a limiting condition on the path to T cell engagement.
The Tec Kinase–Regulated Phosphoproteome Reveals a Mechanism for the Regulation of Inhibitory Signals in Murine Macrophages
Authors: Tampella Giacomo , Kerns Hannah M. , Niu Deqiang , Singh Swati , Khim Socheath , Bosch Katherine A. , Garrett Meghan E. , Moguche Albanus , Evans Erica , Browning Beth , Jahan Tahmina A. , Nacht Mariana , Wolf-Yadlin Alejandro , Plebani Alessandro , Hamerman Jessica A. , Rawlings David J. , James Richard G.
Published: May 2015

Previous work has shown conflicting roles for Tec family kinases in regulation of TLR-dependent signaling in myeloid cells. In the present study, we performed a detailed investigation of the role of the Tec kinases Btk and Tec kinases in regulating TLR signaling in several types of primary murine macrophages. We demonstrate that primary resident peritoneal macrophages deficient for Btk and Tec secrete less proinflammatory cytokines in response to TLR stimulation than do wild-type cells. In contrast, we found that bone marrow–derived and thioglycollate-elicited peritoneal macrophages deficient for Btk and Tec secrete more proinflammatory cytokines than do wild-type cells. We then compared the phosphoproteome regulated by Tec kinases and LPS in primary peritoneal and bone marrow–derived macrophages. From this analysis we determined that Tec kinases regulate different signaling programs in these cell types. In additional studies using bone marrow–derived macrophages, we found that Tec and Btk promote phosphorylation events necessary for immunoreceptor-mediated inhibition of TLR signaling. Taken together, our results are consistent with a model where Tec kinases (Btk, Tec, Bmx) are required for TLR-dependent signaling in many types of myeloid cells. However, our data also support a cell type–specific TLR inhibitory role for Btk and Tec that is mediated by immunoreceptor activation and signaling via PI3K.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Lymph Node: A Novel Tool for the Monitoring of Immune Responses after Skin Antigen Delivery
Authors: Tatovic Danijela , Young Philippa , Kochba Efrat , Levin Yotam , Wong F. Susan , Dayan Colin M.
Published: May 2015

Assessment of immune responses in lymph nodes (LNs) is routine in animals, but rarely done in humans. We have applied minimally invasive ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration of the LN to a before-and-after study of the immune response to intradermally delivered Ag in healthy volunteers (n = 25). By comparison with PBMCs from the same individual, LN cells (LNCs) were characterized by reduced numbers of effector memory cells, especially CD8+ TEMRA cells (3.37 ± 1.93 in LNCs versus 22.53 ± 7.65 in PBMCs; p = 0.01) and a marked increased in CD69 expression (27.67 ± 7.49 versus 3.49 ± 2.62%, LNCs and PBMCs, respectively; p < 0.0001). At baseline, there was a striking absence of IFN-γ ELISPOT responses to recall Ags (purified protein derivative, Tetanus toxoid, or flu/EBV/CMV viral mix) in LN, despite strong responses in the peripheral blood. However, 48 h after tuberculin purified protein derivative administration in the ipsilateral forearm resulting in a positive skin reaction, a clear increase in IFN-γ ELISPOT counts was seen in the draining LN but not in PBMCs. This response was lost by 5 d. These data suggest that the low levels of effector memory cells in the LN may explain the low background of baseline ELISPOT responses in LNs as compared with PBMCs, and the appearance of a response after 48 h is likely to represent migration of effector memory cells from the skin to the LN. Hence, it appears that the combination of intradermal Ag administration and draining LN sampling can be used as a sensitive method to probe the effector memory T cell repertoire in the skin.
An approach to categorification of some small quantum groups
Authors: Khovanov Mikhail , Qi You
Published: May 2015

We categorify one half of the small quantum sl(2) at a prime root of unity. An extension of this construction to an arbitrary simply-laced case is proposed.
Cyclic extensions of fusion categories via the Brauer–Picard groupoid
Authors: Grossman Pinhas , Jordan David , Snyder Noah
Published: May 2015

We construct a long exact sequence computing the obstruction space,

\pi_1\mathrm {BrPic}(\mathcal C_0)

, to

G

-graded extensions of a fusion category

\mathcal C_0

. The other terms in the\linebreak sequence can be computed directly from the fusion ring of

\mathcal C_0

. We apply our result to several examples coming from small index subfactors, thereby constructing several new fusion categories as

G

-extensions. The most striking of these is a

\mathbb{Z}/2\mathbb{Z}

-extension of one of the Asaeda–Haagerup fusion categories, which is one of only two known

3

-supertransitive fusion categories outside the ADE series.

In another direction, we show that our long exact sequence appears in exactly the way one expects: it is part of a long exact sequence of homotopy groups associated to a naturally occuring fibration. This motivates our constructions, and gives another example of the increasing interplay between fusion categories and algebraic topology.
Partial flag varieties, stable envelopes, and weight functions
Authors: Rimányi Richárd , Tarasov Vitaly , Varchenko Alexander
Published: May 2015

We consider the cotangent bundle

T^*\mathfrak F_{\lambda}

of a

\mathrm {GL}_n

partial flag variety,

\lambda = (\lambda_1,\dots,\lambda_N), |\lambda|=\sum_i\lambda_i=n

, and the torus

T=(\mathbb C^\times)^{n+1}

equivariant cohomology

H^*_T(T^*\mathfrak F_{\lambda})

. In [9], a Yangian module structure was introduced on

\bigoplus_{|\lambda|=n} H^*_T(T^*\mathfrak F_{\lambda})

. We identify this Yangian module structure with the Yangian module structure introduced in [5]. This identifies the operators of quantum multiplication by divisors on

H^*_T(T^*\mathfrak F_{\lambda})

, described in [9], with the action of the dynamical Hamiltonians from [20], [10], [5]. To construct these identifications we provide a formula for the stable envelope maps, associated with the partial flag varieties and introduced in [9]. The formula is in terms of the Yangian weight functions introduced in [19], c.f. [21], [22], in order to construct q-hypergeometric solutions of qKZ equations.
How Large Are Global Energy Subsidies?
Authors: Coady David , Parry Ian , Sears Louis , Shang Baoping
Published: May 2015

This paper provides a comprehensive, updated picture of energy subsidies at the global and
regional levels. It focuses on the broad notion of post-tax energy subsidies, which arise when
consumer prices are below supply costs plus a tax to reflect environmental damage and an
additional tax applied to all consumption goods to raise government revenues. Post-tax
energy subsidies are dramatically higher than previously estimated, and are projected to
remain high. These subsidies primarily reflect under-pricing from a domestic (rather than
global) perspective, so even unilateral price reform is in countries’ own interests. The
potential fiscal, environmental and welfare impacts of energy subsidy reform are substantial.
The Scheduling Decision of a Refinery: The Decision Maker in Search of Conflict Resolution
Authors: Spiegel Thais , Caulliraux Heitor Mansur
Published: May 2015

Refineries typically gather a set of activities that are complex and dynamic. Adding to the complexity of the refining process, there is also great freedom in refinery operations, multiple possible arrangements to convert certain oils in derivatives. In this context, this paper focuses on the decision-making processes that lead refiners of an integrated oil company in their day to day. As decision making, the text refers to a process that always brings a kind of conflict resolution, in which conflicting goals have to be negotiated and reconciled. The object of analysis is inserted in hierarchical decision-making processes, e.g. a breakdown process, which begins with a comprehensive evaluation and then divides the decision into ever smaller and more defined elements so that they are interdependent. The output at an aggregated level is then input in the next detailed level. In each of the hierarchical levels, the decision-making is the result of a problem presented in a certain context to a decision maker. This decision maker will be responsible for the direction of the refinery production in which he/she is allocated. The programmer of each refinery have general guidelines that should be considered, albeit non-explicitly or non-definable way, these take the form of criteria in some cases of technical origin and in other situations derived from the business. Given these aspects, this article presents a critical and analytical view in the face of dilemmas that emerge before the search of the decision makers to converge scheduling production considering both set of criteria.
Benchmarking Projects: How to Apply It on Non-Industrial Projects
Authors: Ikpe Elias , Kumar Jatinder , Jergeas George
Published: May 2015

This case study is an example to demonstrate the application and potential strength of benchmarking and its application on non-industrial projects. The paper provides a review of the benchmarking system, benchmarking process, benefit of benchmarking, benchmarking types and barrier of benchmarking. It also describes the use of benchmarking in different knowledge areas. The research shows example of planned contingency and schedule growth results from oil and gas projects executed in Alberta phases 1 & 2 in CII/COAA database. The CII/COAA benchmarking approach was used to improve performance in projects executed in Alberta. The use of the benchmarking system can contribute to a better project performance on non-industrial projects. It is concluded that this approach can be used to benchmark other kinds of projects on non-industrial projects.
Is there a Relation between CEO Remuneration and Banks' Size and performance?
Authors: Kutum Imad
Published: May 2015

The goal of the study is to establish what kind of relationship, if any, exists between CEO remuneration and Banks size and performance. The study is extremely relevant, especially in the financial sector after the crisis of 2007-2008. Many critics have argued both as rhetoric as well as an empirical study that high executive pays have a negative impact on the sustainability and success of a firm. Studying the literature reveals plurality in positions. Since this is an extremely complex question, it is understandable that literature exists arguing on both sides of the debate. This paper collected data on Bank Size and Bank Performance for 6 Canadian banks to study their correlation with CEO remuneration. It was hypothesized that there existed a positive relationship between CEO remuneration and Bank Size (measured by Sales, Deposits and Employees) and Bank Performance (measured by ROA, ROE and Profit Margin). The data was put through SPSS for a Pearson coefficient analysis which revealed a strongly positive correlation between CEO remuneration and all three variables of Bank Size. On the other hand, no significant relationship could be established between CEO remuneration and Bank Performance except a weak positive relationship with ROA. The study can be helpful in executive decision making. However, it also calls for further research into external factors that have an impact on the relationships between these variables. Most importantly a comparison study following the same methodology of different regions can give us more useful business intelligence and insight
The nature of work family conflict: A review and agenda for future research
Authors: Kengatharan Navaneethakrishnan
Published: May 2015

The main purpose of this research was to identify gaps in the existing literature on work family conflict from the past 30 years, and develop a viable research plan for further research. Research papers from peer-reviewed journals were collected from multiple databases including Proquest, Business Source Premier (EBSCOhost), Expanded Academic (Gale), Emerald, ISI Web Science, the Sloan Work and Family Research Network at Boston College, and Google Scholar. Full text papers published in English in the last three decades were included in this study.  The collected papers were then classified and analysed using thematic content analysis. Factors influencing work family conflict, their consequences and the relevant constructs were systematically identified and summarised. The gaps in the extant literature from the past 30 years were identified and these were subsumed under a regional gap-theoretical cultural perspective, a measurement gap, cross cultural studies, organisational responsiveness, environmental factors and gender role theory. The present study serves as a springboard for future studies and theory building on the interaction between the work and family domains. This research is original in its nature as it has identified major strands of the extant literature on work family conflict and ipso facto it can guide research scholars towards the unknown terrain of the work family sphere. This research urges policy makers, practitioners and members of organisations to digest this knowledge and it aims to make them aware of the overarching area of work and family in the contemporary world.  The major limitation of this study is the Tower of Babel Bias, to wit, research studies not published in English were excluded from this study.