bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of School Library Development in Nepal
Authors: Siwakoti Sharada
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v1i1.427Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship & Information Management Volume 1, No. 1 pp.14-19The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Status of School Library Development in Pakistan
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v1i1.428Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship & Information Management Volume 1, No. 1 pp.20-24
Status of School Library Development in Sri Lanka
Authors: Kuruppaurachchi S
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v1i1.429Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship & Information Management volume 1, No. 1 pp.25-30The full text of this article is available from the NILIS website.
Empowering 8: the Information Literacy model developed in Sri Lanka to underpin changing education paradigms of Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijetunge Pradeepa , Alahakoon UP
Published: April 2012

Information literacy (IL) is the ability to identify, locate, evaluate, organize and effectively create, use and communicate information to address an issue or a problem. It is a basic human right to lifelong learning. Information itself is becoming a transforming strategic resource of the emerging information society. Without information literacy, the information society will not be able to achieve its full potential. Therefore, the concept and practice of information literacy must be promoted from an early age among the school going children. Information literacy is more relevant for the developing nations to enable themselves to bridge the growing info-divide between the developed and the developing nations. In this context, a regional workshop was organized by NILIS to create awareness of information skills for learning among the participants from South and Southeast Asian countries. Empowering Eight (E8), an Information Literacy Model was developed at this workshop organized jointly by IFLA -ALP and the National Institute of Library & Information Sciences (NILIS) of Sri Lanka. There were participants representing ten South and Southeast Asian countries. The objective of the workshop was to enhance the resource-based learning in these countries by sensitizing the participants to Information Literacy, which as a concept has not taken roots in majority of the countries in the region. When a plethora of IL models are already available, one may question why the wheel is being re-invented. Re-inventing the wheel or developing another model is essential because of the composite culture and local conditions in these countries. If an existing model used in a developed country is imposed, it would be difficult for the stakeholders to understand the philosophical roots behind the model. Therefore, the workshop participants, throughout five days worked from identifying the need of IL through comparison of different models to building the E8 to suit the local needs of the region. This paper will discuss in detail the Empowering 8 model and its application and implementation in the Sri Lankan context. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v1i1.430 Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship & Information Management Volume 1, No. 1 pp.31-41The full text of this article is available from the NILIS website.
Development of policies for access, management and preservation of the Palm-leaf manuscript collection of the University of Peradeniya library
Authors: Alahakoon Champa Nilmini Kumari
Published: April 2012

As it is a requirement to have written policies relating to the library procedures, this paper mainly discusses the sample policies relating to the palm-leaf manuscripts available in the University of Peradeniya. According to the records available at the University of Peradeniya library the amount of the Palm-leaf manuscripts, which are housed in the library, it has the second largest collection in Sri Lanka. The surveys revealed that none of the libraries have a written policy statement for any of the library procedures. Non-documenting of policy statements is the major drawback in the library to manage the palm-leaf collection. This article points out the method of preparation of palm-leaf manuscripts, acquisition, collection management, customer service, reference service and proposed preservation policy statements of the University of Peradeniya. It also highlights preservation policy as the main policy statement among these policies and the none-availability of the trained staff, space, equipment, chemicals, and lack of training programmes are the drawbacks for the implementation of the preservation policy in the library. All the suggestions are given to establish the preservation department/unite and the preventive care that needs to be practiced to preserve the collection with other necessary arrangements. The recommendations highlights from where to get the training for the technical staff regarding the preventive care of the palm-leaf in Sri Lanka. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v1i1.431 Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship & Information Management Volume 1, No. 1 pp.42-58The full text of this article is available from the NILIS website.
Library and Information Science education: look beyond library and information services
Authors: Siddamallaiah HS , Karisiddappa CR
Published: April 2012

Development of librarianship, though has good theoretical support, is not emulated to the sciences and art of knowledge society. Librarianship, as a profession, emanated through accumulation of ideas from various professionals entities. However due to the varied needs of the users, technological application, derivation of information activity in various fields like "information management" "knowledge Management" "information engineering" and "Information sciences", development of librarianship as information science was left behind. This study concentrates on "how librarianship is to be developed into a science. The science of librarianship is somehow lagging behind both at academic and research activity, whereas in practice level, information science is recognized more as a skill due to lack of on par endorsement from academic and research activity and the relationship of industry (practicing library) and Library and Information Science (LIS) departments. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v1i2.432 Sri Lanka Journal of Librarianship & Information Management volume1, No.2 pp.59-68 The full text of this article is available from the NILIS website.
Trends of building and accessing digital collections and problems of digital divide in the emerging digital era
Authors: Malhan IV
Published: April 2012

The instant accessibility of information through the Internet and development of the World Wide Web have accelerated digitization work in libraries publishing houses and in enormous other organizations concerned with collecting, storing and communication of information. The paper depicts reasons for growing acceptability of digital collections and new kinds of challenges the digital media poses for the libraries and information centres. Portrays the growing unbundling of information in digital form and indicates the trends of development of new information products and knowledge management tools in the emerging digital environment. The growing digitization of information has created an information explosion to a level which the humanity has never witnessed before. In such a scenario cooperation, collaboration, synergy and convergence of work and efforts are the means to ensure accessibility of best possible information services to user communities. The growing volume of digitized information have bridged the information accessibility gap for some by providing access to enormous volume of information on desktop but it has created the problem of digital divide for those who have no access to information technology infrastructure or lack competencies to effectively use it. It suggests that a massive collaborative effort is required for imparting information literacy to people to build their capacities to derive adequate benefits from the digital revolution.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v2i1.436 Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 2, No.1 pp.5-10 The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Managing Very Large Databases and Data Warehousing
Authors: Wikramanayake GN , Goonetillake JS
Published: April 2012

Major libraries have large collections and circulation. Managing libraries electronically has resulted in the creation and management of large library databases. The interconnection of libraries and sharing resources across libraries has resulted in the management of very large databases. Most large and/or multinational industries worldwide have exploited such opportunities by applying data warehouse technology to their data repositories to discover knowledge that had helped them to gain competitive advantage through decision making. The same can be done for libraries using the available large databases. This paper identifies the changes that had taken placed in libraries due to technology and how the data warehouse technology could assist them to discover knowledge and improve services. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v2i1.438 Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 2, No.1 pp.22-29 The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Managerial issues in building digital collections
Authors: Talagala Deepali
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v2i1.439Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 2, No.1 pp.30-37The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Digital Collection Building Initiatives of National Library and Documentation Centre
Authors: Gangabadadarachchi Varuni , Amarasiri MSU
Published: April 2012

The National Library has a major role in collecting and preserving nation's intellectual heritage. Digitization and digital libraries are more common with new changing environment in libraries. As printed materials continue to deteriorate rapidly, digitization of those materials would help to preserve originals and reformatted copies to use. National Library has commenced a project to develop a digital library. The major reference tools have been acquired in digital format. The national Library has also afforded to use of e-journals free of charge through the PERI project of INASP. Further Major bibliographic and documentation products of National Library are in print and digital formats or only in digital format. National Library catalogue and National Union Catalogue have been computerised and they can be accessed through web. The photographic collection of National Library also has been digitized. National Library has commenced a document scanning project which main objective is to enable users, regardless of location, to directly access and use digitised materials relating to Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans. A policy for digitization and collection management was formed. Mainly manuscripts are selected for digitization in the first phase of the project. Digital camera is an effective form of digital copying specially for larger items. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v2i1.440 Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 2, No.1 pp.38-43 The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
An identification of Critical Success Factors (CSFs) on user perspectives in diffusing e-Information Service in the University of Colombo Library
Authors: Jayasundara Chaminda Chiran
Published: April 2012

Access to fresh international research is a prerequisite for meaningful research endeavor. With the objective of providing online scholarly information, the e-Information service was established in 2003 and it was quickly became the hart of the library services and a catalyst for change and collaboration. The e-Information service of the University of Colombo's leading edge resource based teaching and learning facility, provides a collaborative interdisciplinary environment where campus wide access is granted. Identification of CSFs and degree of user satisfaction towards the e-Information service were the objectives of this study. The method of collecting data was informal discussions with 10 postgraduate students, 05 undergraduate students and 8 lecturers who were familiar with using e-resources and where comfortable using IT in FGS, Education, Arts and Science faculties. Physical observations in e-Resource centers were also made. The data collection was preliminary focused on four key areas namely Infrastructure, Support, Resources and Patrons. Conducting e-Information Literacy Development Programmes, enhancing resource sharing activities, strengthening e-information acquisition and delivery procedures were important suggestions.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v2i2.441 Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 2, No.2 pp. 1-12 The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Scientometric Dimensions of Knowledge Management Research in India: A Study based on Scopus database
Authors: Surulinathi M , Amsaveni N , Maheswaran K , Srinivasaraghavan S
Published: April 2012

This paper attempts to analyse quantitatively the growth and development of Knowledge Management Research in India in terms of publication output as reflected in Scopus database. During 1999-2007 a total of 51 papers were published by the Knowledge Management researchers to various domains: Business, Management and Accounting (24), Engineering (18), Social Sciences (7), Computer Science (6), Decision Sciences (6), Multidisciplinary (4), Mathematics (3), Environmental Science (2), Agricultural and Biological Sciences (1), Earth and Planetary Sciences (1), Economics, Econometrics and Finance (1), Materials Science (1). Year-wise growth of publications and input of records to Scopus database by India is analyzed. More than 80 percent of publications were published in journals. The most preferred journals were International Journal of Information Technology and Management (7), Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research (4), Electronic Library (2), Human Systems Management (2), Journal of Knowledge Management (2), International Journal of Technology Management (2), International Conference on Information and Knowledge Management Proceedings (2), Proceedings Frontiers in Education Conference (2), others journals each (1). There were as many as 24 (47.06) papers contributed by single author. There were five authors contributions is zero and more than 5 authors contribution is less than 1(1.96). The publication behavior indicates that the Knowledge management researchers were lowly selective in publishing. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v2i2.442 Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 2, No.2 pp. 13-24 The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Blooming knowledge society and information literacy in India
Authors: Karisiddappa CR , Rajgoli Iqbalahmad U
Published: April 2012

The revolution of the technology that allows people to transmit and receive information has opened a new age in the history of mankind. Alongside the rise of e-commerce, e-health and even e-democracy, the Internet has been positioned as a potential saviour of lifelong learning and learning society. The information technology revolution is creating a new form of electronic, interactive education that should blossom into a lifelong learning system that allows almost anyone to learn anything from anywhere at anytime. This paper discusses the e-governance initiatives undertaken by the Government of India, non-profit and non-government organisations. The role of different types of libraries in providing e-government information and services to the population is discussed with more emphasis on public and government libraries. Also highlights the importance of information literacy and lifelong learning in effectively utilizing the e-governance initiatives undertaken in different parts of rural India and proposes possible programs and initiatives for implementation of information literacy and lifelong learning. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v3i1.443 Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 3, No. 1(2007) pp. 1-13The full text of this article is available on the NILIS website.
Influences of Personal Traits in the Process of Information Searching
Authors: Karunanayake KGDA , Nagata Haruki
Published: April 2012

Many influencing factors in the information search process have been identified in this research area. Among them, cognitive and psychological variables as the personal traits which make intellectual influences are commonly addressed. Here knowledge, skill and psychological elements are focused upon as key factors of this personal trait.The study empirically examined the influences of personal traits in the process of information searches. The survey was conducted with the undergraduates of the faculty of Medicine at the University of Colombo (Sri Lanka) in January 2007. Based on the influence of the three elements of personal traits (knowledge, skills and psychological factors) the students' positions in the search process were identified. The mean/median value used for the data analysis indicated the influence levels of each trait.The survey results indicated that a few students exhibited traits strongly tied to the level of their success, while the majority of them did not expertly search due to negatively or moderately influenced personal traits. Positive influences rarely occurred. A consideration of the influence levels made it clear that some paucity areas of KSP limited the success of those students.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v3i2.445Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management Volume 3, No. 2(2008) pp. 1-15
Use of Internet by Faculty Members and Research Scholars in the 21st Century: A study of university libraries of Karnataka State, India
Authors: Hadagali Gururaj S , Kumbar BD
Published: April 2012

The Internet is becoming more widely used by academic institutions to support the teaching, learning and research activities of faculty members and research scholars. The main aim of this study is to examine the impact of Internet on the users in university libraries of Karnataka State. The present study demonstrates and elaborates the various aspects of internet use, such as frequency of Internet use, place of access, purposes for Internet access, motivating factors to access Internet and most preferred search engines. It was found from the survey that the Internet has become a vital instrument for teaching, research and learning process of these respondents. Some suggestions have been given to make the service more beneficial for the faculty members and research scholars of the university libraries of Karnataka state under study.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v4i1-2.4250  Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management. Vol.4, Nos.1&2 (Jan. – June 2011) pp. 1 -17.
Web Technology: A tool for social networking and resource sharing knowledge indicators towards community development
Authors: Kasirao V , Kumar R Santha , Rengaraj M
Published: April 2012

Web Technology plays a vital role in library, information and documentation knowledge resource centres and as tool for social networking and resource sharing knowledge indicators towards community development. The Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) serve as a tool for knowledge indicators in Knowledge Organization Management for e-knowledge dissemination and access to service providers (i.e. Governments/Institutions) and service receivers (i.e. community people) for socio economic development. The social network programmes such as e-governance, e-communities, e-culture, e-health, e-business, e-learning etc. are promoting through ICTs applications for rural community development. In view of this, the present paper is related to the paper theme literature analysis on web under study. Outlines the information scientist’s effective role in content analysis and content management for knowledge dissemination for access towards community development. This paper emphasizes the need for knowledge access and sharing initiatives for rural community development. Highlights the key issues in relation to ICTs application sources in development context. Provides the guidelines for issues to consider developing the ICTs polices and implementation strategies for socio, economic and cultural development in the present knowledge based society.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v4i1-2.4251  Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management. Vol.4, Nos.1&2 (Jan. – June 2011) pp. 18-26
Sri Lanka's earliest libraries - Anuradhapura and Polonnuruwa periods
Authors: Bowden Russell
Published: April 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v4i3-4.4252  Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management. Vol.4, Nos.3&4 (Jan. – June 2011) pp. 1-58
The Historical Development of Sri Lankan Scholarly Journal Publishing (1845 – 2010)
Authors: Yapa Geetha
Published: April 2012

Sri Lanka has a long history of writing and literary activities with historical records and archival evidence dating back to the 3rd century BC. Introduction of Buddhism marked the beginning of a new culture, and an era of academic and literary activities commenced during the 1st century BC when Buddhist scriptures were first committed to writing. However, scholarly journals or periodicals based on systematic organized research came into existence during the early 19th century when the country was under British colonial rule. While few important journals from the colonial era still continue, an increasing number have emerged over the years reflecting the country’s expanding academic and research environment. This paper recounts the last 165 years of evolution and progress in Sri Lankan scholarly journal publications from 1845 to 2010. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sllim.v4i3-4.4253Sri Lankan Journal of Librarianship and Information Management. Vol.4, Nos.3&4 (Jan. – June 2011) pp. 59-75
Joint NOD2/RIPK2 Signaling Regulates IL-17 Axis and Contributes to the Development of Experimental Arthritis
Authors: Vieira Silvio M. , Cunha Thiago M. , França Rafael F. O. , Pinto Larissa G. , Talbot Jhimmy , Turato Walter M. , Lemos Henrique P. , Lima Jonilson B. , Verri Waldiceu A. , Almeida Sérgio C. L. , Ferreira Sergio H. , Louzada-Junior Paulo , Zamboni Dario S. , Cunha Fernando Q.
Published: April 2012

Intracellular pattern recognition receptors such as the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors family members are key for innate immune recognition of microbial infection and may play important roles in the development of inflammatory diseases, including rheumatic diseases. In this study, we evaluated the role of NOD1 and NOD2 on development of experimental arthritis. Ag-induced arthritis was generated in wild-type, NOD1−/−, NOD2−/−, or receptor-interacting serine-threonine kinase 2−/− (RIPK2−/−) immunized mice challenged intra-articularly with methylated BSA. Nociception was determined by electronic Von Frey test. Neutrophil recruitment and histopathological analysis of proteoglycan lost was evaluated in inflamed joints. Joint levels of inflammatory cytokine/chemokine were measured by ELISA. Cytokine (IL-6 and IL-23) and NOD2 expressions were determined in mice synovial tissue by RT-PCR. The NOD2−/− and RIPK2−/−, but not NOD1−/−, mice are protected from Ag-induced arthritis, which was characterized by a reduction in neutrophil recruitment, nociception, and cartilage degradation. NOD2/RIPK2 signaling impairment was associated with a reduction in proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines (TNF, IL-1β, and CXCL1/KC). IL-17 and IL-17 triggering cytokines (IL-6 and IL-23) were also reduced in the joint, but there is no difference in the percentage of CD4+ IL-17+ cells in the lymph node between arthritic wild-type and NOD2−/− mice. Altogether, these findings point to a pivotal role of the NOD2/RIPK2 signaling in the onset of experimental arthritis by triggering an IL-17–dependent joint immune response. Therefore, we could propose that NOD2 signaling is a target for the development of new therapies for the control of rheumatoid arthritis.
Usp18 Promotes Conventional CD11b+ Dendritic Cell Development
Authors: Cong Xiu-Li , Lo Miao-Chia , Reuter Brian A. , Yan Ming , Fan Jun-Bao , Zhang Dong-Er
Published: April 2012

Dendritic cells (DCs) represent the key cells linking innate and adaptive immune responses. It is critical to understand the molecular factors regulating DC differentiation. Usp18 is an IFN-inducible member of the ubiquitin-specific protease family, which deconjugates ubiquitin-like modifier ISG15 from target proteins and competitively inhibits IFN-α/β–induced JAK/STAT activation. This study demonstrates that the frequency of conventional CD11b+ DCs in the spleen of Usp18−/− mice was significantly reduced, whereas the frequencies of conventional CD8+ DCs and plasmacytoid DCs remained normal. In addition, Usp18−/− bone marrow (BM) cells generate DCs less efficiently in GM-CSF–supplemented culture, demonstrating a fundamental defect throughout the DC differentiation pathway. Usp18−/− BM cells were rescued by exogenous expression of either wild-type or deconjugation-inactive Usp18, and superimposition of an IFN-α/β receptor knockout returned in vivo DC populations to normal, clearly showing that the defect seen is due solely to Usp18’s effect on IFN signaling. Finally, Usp18−/− BM-derived DCs expressed high levels of SOCS1/SOCS3, known inhibitors of GM-CSF signaling, providing a mechanistic explanation for the phenotype. In conclusion, we have identified a novel role of Usp18 in modulating conventional CD11b+ DC development via its inhibitory effect on type I IFN signaling.
Elevation of Sema4A Implicates Th Cell Skewing and the Efficacy of IFN-β Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Nakatsuji Yuji , Okuno Tatsusada , Moriya Masayuki , Sugimoto Tomoyuki , Kinoshita Makoto , Takamatsu Hyota , Nojima Satoshi , Kimura Tetsuya , Kang Sujin , Ito Daisuke , Nakagawa Yukinobu , Toyofuku Toshihiko , Takata Kazushiro , Nakano Misa , Kubo Masato , Suzuki Sinobu , Matsui-Hasumi Akiko , Uto-Konomi Ayako , Ogata Atsushi , Mochizuki Hideki , Sakoda Saburo , Kumanogoh Atsushi
Published: April 2012

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating autoimmune disease of the CNS and a leading cause of lasting neurologic disabilities in young adults. Although the precise mechanism remains incompletely understood, Ag presentation and subsequent myelin-reactive CD4+ T cell activation/differentiation are essential for the pathogenesis of MS. Although semaphorins were initially identified as axon guidance cues during neural development, several semaphorins are crucially involved in various phases of immune responses. Sema4A is one of the membrane-type class IV semaphorins, which we originally identified from the cDNA library of dendritic cell (DC). Sema4A plays critical roles in T cell activation and Th1 differentiation during the course of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, an animal model of MS; however, its pathological involvement in human MS has not been determined. In this study, we report that Sema4A is increased in the sera of patients with MS. The expression of Sema4A is increased on DCs in MS patients and shed from these cells in a metalloproteinase-dependent manner. DC-derived Sema4A is not only critical for Th1 but also for Th17 cell differentiation, and MS patients with high Sema4A levels exhibit Th17 skewing. Furthermore, patients with high Sema4A levels have more severe disabilities and are unresponsive to IFN-β treatment. Taken together, our results suggest that Sema4A is involved in the pathogenesis of MS by promoting Th17 skewing.
Improvement of Psoriasis after Tonsillectomy Is Associated with a Decrease in the Frequency of Circulating T Cells That Recognize Streptococcal Determinants and Homologous Skin Determinants
Authors: Thorleifsdottir Ragna Hlin , Sigurdardottir Sigrun Laufey , Sigurgeirsson Bardur , Olafsson Jon Hjaltalin , Sigurdsson Martin Ingi , Petersen Hannes , Arnadottir Sigurlaug , Gudjonsson Johann Eli , Johnston Andrew , Valdimarsson Helgi
Published: April 2012

Exacerbation of chronic psoriasis can be associated with streptococcal throat infections, and T cells that respond to peptide sequences common to streptococcal M proteins and skin keratins have been detected in patients’ blood. To our knowledge, we have conducted the first blinded, prospective study to assess the impact of tonsillectomy on psoriasis. Twenty-nine patients with chronic psoriasis and history of exacerbation after sore throat were randomly assigned to tonsillectomy (n = 15) or control (n = 14) groups and monitored for 2 y clinically and by enumeration of circulating skin homing T cells that respond to short homologous M protein or keratin peptides. Thirteen patients (86%) showed sustained improvement after tonsillectomy ranging from 30 to 90% reduction in disease severity. Furthermore, there was a close correlation between the degree of clinical improvement in individual patients and reduction in the frequency of peptide-reactive skin-homing T cells in their circulation. No corresponding clinical or immunologic changes were observed among the controls. These findings indicate that tonsillectomy may have a beneficial effect on chronic psoriasis because the palatine tonsils generate effector T cells that recognize keratin determinants in the skin.
Complement Activation Product C5a Is a Selective Suppressor of TLR4-Induced, but Not TLR3-Induced, Production of IL-27(p28) from Macrophages
Authors: Bosmann Markus , Haggadone Mikel D. , Hemmila Mark R. , Zetoune Firas S. , Sarma J. Vidya , Ward Peter A.
Published: April 2012

There is accumulating evidence that the complement activation product, C5a, can orchestrate cellular immune functions. IL-27(p28/EBI3) is an emerging key player essential for regulating inflammatory responses and T cells. In this article, we report that C5a robustly suppressed IL-27(p28) gene expression and release in peritoneal macrophages. These cells from C57BL/6J mice abundantly produced IL-27(p28) after engagement of either the TLR3 (polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid) or TLR4 (LPS) receptor. Genetic deficiency of either TLR4 or LBP completely incapacitated the ability of macrophages to secrete IL-27(p28) in response to LPS. IL-27(p28)–producing macrophages also expressed the C5aR receptor, thus displaying an IL-27(p28)+F4/80+C5aR+ phenotype. C5a suppressed IL-27(p28) in LPS-stimulated macrophages via interactions with the C5aR receptor rather than the C5L2 receptor. After endotoxemia, C5aR−/− mice displayed higher plasma levels of IL-27(p28) compared with C57BL/6J mice. C5a did not affect the release of IL-27(p28) or the frequency of IL-27(p28)+F4/80+ macrophages after engagement of TLR3. Mechanistically, LPS activated both the NF-κB and the PI3K/Akt pathways, whereas C5a activated only the PI3K/Akt pathway. Engagement of PI3K/Akt was inhibitory for IL-27(p28) production, because PI3K/Akt pharmacologic blockade resulted in increased amounts of IL-27(p28) and reversed the suppressive effects of C5a. Blockade of PI3K/Akt in endotoxemic C57BL/6J mice resulted in higher generation of IL-27(p28). In contrast, the PI3K/Akt pathway was not involved in TLR3-mediated release of IL-27(p28). These data provide new evidence about how complement activation may selectively interfere with production of T cell regulatory cytokines by APCs in the varying contexts of either bacterial (TLR4 pathway) or viral (TLR3 pathway) infection.
Structural Analysis of a Dengue Cross-Reactive Antibody Complexed with Envelope Domain III Reveals the Molecular Basis of Cross-Reactivity
Authors: Midgley Claire M. , Flanagan Aleksandra , Tran Hai Bac , Dejnirattisai Wanwisa , Chawansuntati Kriangkrai , Jumnainsong Amonrat , Wongwiwat Wiyada , Duangchinda Thaneeya , Mongkolsapaya Juthathip , Grimes Jonathan M. , Screaton Gavin R.
Published: April 2012

Dengue virus infections are still increasing at an alarming rate in tropical and subtropical countries, underlying the need for a dengue vaccine. Although it is relatively easy to generate Ab responses to dengue virus, low avidity or low concentrations of Ab may enhance infection of FcR-bearing cells with clinical impact, posing a challenge to vaccine production. In this article, we report the characterization of a mAb, 2H12, which is cross-reactive to all four serotypes in the dengue virus group. Crystal structures of 2H12-Fab in complex with domain III of the envelope protein from three dengue serotypes have been determined. 2H12 binds to the highly conserved AB loop of domain III of the envelope protein that is poorly accessible in the mature virion. 2H12 neutralization varied between dengue serotypes and strains; in particular, dengue serotype 2 was not neutralized. Because the 2H12-binding epitope was conserved, this variation in neutralization highlights differences between dengue serotypes and suggests that significant conformational changes in the virus must take place for Ab binding. Surprisingly, 2H12 facilitated little or no enhancement of infection. These data provide a structural basis for understanding Ab neutralization and enhancement of infection, which is crucial for the development of future dengue vaccines.
PD-1 Protects against Inflammation and Myocyte Damage in T Cell-Mediated Myocarditis
Authors: Tarrio Margarite L. , Grabie Nir , Bu De-xiu , Sharpe Arlene H. , Lichtman Andrew H.
Published: April 2012

PD-1, a member of the CD28 family of immune regulatory molecules, is expressed on activated T cells, interacts with its ligands, PD-L1/B7-H1 and PD-L2/B7-DC, on other cells, and delivers inhibitory signals to the T cell. We studied the role of this pathway in modulating autoreactive T cell responses in two models of myocarditis. In a CD8+ T cell-mediated adoptive transfer model, we found that compared with Pd1+/+ CD8+ T cells, Pd1−/− CD8+ T cells cause enhanced disease, with increased inflammatory infiltrate, particularly rich in neutrophils. Additionally, we show enhanced proliferation in vivo and enhanced cytotoxic activity of PD-1–deficient T lymphocytes against myocardial endothelial cells in vitro. In experimental autoimmune myocarditis, a disease model dependent on CD4+ T cells, we show that mice lacking PD-1 develop enhanced disease compared with wild-type mice. PD-1–deficient mice displayed increased inflammation, enhanced serum markers of myocardial damage, and an increased infiltration of inflammatory cells, including CD8+ T cells. Together, these studies show that PD-1 plays an important role in limiting T cell responses in the heart.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of primary sphenoid sinus esthesioneuroblastoma metastatic to the skin
Authors: Akinfolarin Josephine , Jazaerly Tarek , Jones Kia , Abu-Hamdan Maher , Lonardo Fulvio , Folbe Adam , Giorgadze Tamar
Published: April 2012

Esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB) is a rare tumor derived from olfactory neuroepithelium. ENB in a site outside of where olfactory epithelium exists is exceedingly rare with only five cases of ENB isolated to the sphenoid sinuses described in the literature to date. To the best of our knowledge, a skin metastasis of ENB outside the head and neck region has not been reported. We present an unusual case of a 33-year-old male diagnosed with primary sphenoid sinus ENB, who underwent surgical resection of the tumor followed by chemoradiation. About 5 months later, the patient developed a dermal mass in the sternal region, clinically suspicious for metastasis. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) revealed a tumor with morphological features and immunophenotype consistent with the metastasis from patient′s known primary sphenoid sinus ENB. Our case demonstrates that the skin may be a rare site of a metastatic ENB, and FNA is a cost-effective and reliable diagnostic method of a suspected cutaneous metastasis.
White Blood Cell Differentials Enrich Whole Blood Expression Data in the Context of Acute Cardiac Allograft Rejection
Authors: Shannon Casey P. , Hollander Zsuzsanna , Wilson-Mcmanus Janet , Balshaw Robert , Ng Raymond T. , Mcmaster Robert , Mcmanus Bruce M. , Keown Paul A. , Tebbutt Scott J.
Published: April 2012

Acute cardiac allograft rejection is a serious complication of heart transplantation. Investigating molecular processes in whole blood via microarrays is a promising avenue of research in transplantation, particularly due to the non-invasive nature of blood sampling. However, whole blood is a complex tissue and the consequent heterogeneity in composition amongst samples is ignored in traditional microarray analysis. This complicates the biological interpretation of microarray data. Here we have applied a statistical deconvolution approach, cell-specific significance analysis of microarrays (csSAM), to whole blood samples from subjects either undergoing acute heart allograft rejection (AR) or not (NR). We identified eight differentially expressed probe-sets significantly correlated to monocytes (mapping to 6 genes, all down-regulated in ARs versus NRs) at a false discovery rate (FDR) ≤ 15%. None of the genes identified are present in a biomarker panel of acute heart rejection previously published by our group and discovered in the same data.
The Prognostic Value of suPAR Compared to Other Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Severe Sepsis
Authors: Gustafsson Anna , Ljunggren Lennart , Bodelsson Mikael , Berkestedt Ingrid
Published: April 2012

It has been suggested that soluble urokinase plasminogen activator (suPAR) can be used as a marker of disease severity and risk of mortality in sepsis. The aim with the present study was to compare plasma levels of suPAR in patients with severe sepsis to control subjects and correlate it with the level of inflammatory activation, severity and mortality. Samples were collected from 27 sepsis patients at the intensive care unit (ICU), Lund, Sweden; 90-day mortalities were registered. The suPAR level was significantly elevated in sepsis patients compared to controls, but not significantly higher in nonsurvivors than survivors. Plasma levels of suPAR did correlate weakly with the SOFA score and myeloperoxidase (MPO) but not with CRP, PCT, IL-6 or IL-10 in patients with severe sepsis. The weak correlation between suPAR and other inflammatory markers might suggest that suPAR reflects general activation of the immune system rather than exerting inflammatory actions.
Climatic effects of 1950–2050 changes in US anthropogenic aerosols – Part 1: Aerosol trends and radiative forcing
Authors: Leibensperger E. M. , Mickley L. J. , Jacob D. J. , Chen W.-T. , Seinfeld J. H. , Nenes A. , Adams P. J. , Streets D. G. , Kumar N. , Rind D.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. We calculate decadal aerosol direct and indirect (warm cloud) radiative forcings from US anthropogenic sources over the 1950–2050 period. Past and future aerosol distributions are constructed using GEOS-Chem and historical emission inventories and future projections from the IPCC A1B scenario. Aerosol simulations are evaluated with observed spatial distributions and 1980–2010 trends of aerosol concentrations and wet deposition in the contiguous US. Direct and indirect radiative forcing is calculated using the GISS general circulation model and monthly mean aerosol distributions from GEOS-Chem. The radiative forcing from US anthropogenic aerosols is strongly localized over the eastern US. We find that its magnitude peaked in 1970–1990, with values over the eastern US (east of 100° W) of −2.0 W m−2 for direct forcing including contributions from sulfate (−2.0 W m−2), nitrate (−0.2 W m−2), organic carbon (−0.2 W m−2), and black carbon (+0.4 W m−2). The uncertainties in radiative forcing due to aerosol radiative properties are estimated to be about 50%. The aerosol indirect effect is estimated to be of comparable magnitude to the direct forcing. We find that the magnitude of the forcing declined sharply from 1990 to 2010 (by 0.8 W m−2 direct and 1.0 W m−2 indirect), mainly reflecting decreases in SO2 emissions, and project that it will continue declining post-2010 but at a much slower rate since US SO2 emissions have already declined by almost 60% from their peak. This suggests that much of the warming effect of reducing US anthropogenic aerosol sources has already been realized. The small positive radiative forcing from US BC emissions (+0.3 W m−2 over the eastern US in 2010; 5% of the global forcing from anthropogenic BC emissions worldwide) suggests that a US emission control strategy focused on BC would have only limited climate benefit.
Ozone production in the megacities of Tianjin and Shanghai, China: a comparative study
Authors: Ran L. , Zhao C. S. , Xu W. Y. , Han M. , Lu X. Q. , Han S. Q. , Lin W. L. , Xu X. B. , Gao W. , Yu Q. , Geng F. H. , Ma N. , Deng Z. Z. , Chen J.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. Rapid economic growth has given rise to a significant increase in ozone precursor emissions in many regions of China, especially in the densely populated North China Plain (NCP) and Yangtze River Delta (YRD). Improved understanding of ozone formation in response to different precursor emissions is imperative to address the highly nonlinear ozone problem and to provide a solid scientific basis for efficient ozone abatement in these regions. A comparative study on ozone photochemical production in summer has thus been carried out in the megacities of Tianjin (NCP) and Shanghai (YRD). Two intensive field campaigns were carried out respectively at an urban and a suburban site of Tianjin, in addition to routine monitoring of trace gases in Shanghai, providing data sets of surface ozone and its precursors including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Ozone pollution was found to be more severe in Tianjin than in Shanghai during the summer, either based on the frequency or the duration of high ozone events. Such differences might be attributed to the large amount of highly reactive VOC mixture in the Tianjin region. It is found that industry related species like light alkenes were of particular importance in both urban and suburban Tianjin, while in Shanghai aromatics dominate. In general, the ozone problem in Shanghai is on an urban scale. Stringent control policies on local emissions would help reduce the occurrence of high ozone concentrations. By contrast, ozone pollution in Tianjin is a regional problem. Combined efforts to reduce ozone precursor emissions on a regional scale must be undertaken to bring the ozone problem under control.
Predictability of a low-order interactive ensemble
Authors: Siqueira L. , Kirtman B.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. In this paper, numerical and analytical studies were performed to uncover the mechanisms controlling the changes in ensemble spread of a low-order coupled model with multiple atmospheric realizations. An interactive ensemble approach was applied to a coupled dynamical system based on two versions of the Lorenz 63 model designed in order to imitate the behavior of a coupled system with different time scales. In the dynamic system used in this work the spread of ensemble members is highly dependent on the mean state corresponding to asymmetries in predictability. The slowness of the slow model and the intensity of the boundary forcing anomalies both contribute to the asymmetry and phase locking of both subsystems. The mechanisms controlling the fast model spread were uncovered revealing uncertainty dynamics depending on the location of ensemble members in the fast model phase space and implicitly on the slowness and magnitude of the slow model anomalies.
La corrupción en España (2004-2010): datos, percepción y efectos
Authors: Villoria Mendieta Manuel , Jiménez- Sánchez Fernando
Published: April 2012

Los escándalos de corrupción investigados por los jueces han tenidogran presencia mediática en los últimos años en España. Ello podría habergenerado una percepción generalizada de incremento de la corrupcióny reforzado la desafección institucional. El objetivo de este artículoes analizar qué rasgos cuantitativos y cualitativos tiene la corrupción enEspaña y si la percepción correlaciona con los datos objetivos existentes.El texto parte de tres hipótesis. Para demostrarlas se han analizadoestadísticas judiciales, noticias de medios de comunicación, sumariosjudiciales y datos de diversas encuestas. Este artículo contribuye a unmejor conocimiento de los rasgos de la corrupción en España desde2004 y abre la vía a estudios posteriores más detallados sobre causasy consecuencias del fenómeno.
La persistencia de las diferencias de género en el interés por la política
Authors: Verge Mestre Tania , Tormón Marín Raül
Published: April 2012

Este artículo explora el rol de los recursos individuales, los factoressituacionales y el proceso de socialización en la persistencia de las diferenciasde género en las actitudes políticas, principalmente en el interéspor la política. Prestamos especial atención a los factores situacionales,sobre todo aquellos que tienen que ver con el tiempo dedicado a lasresponsabilidades domésticas y de cuidado. A pesar de la crecienteparticipación de la mujer en el mercado de trabajo y la progresivaequiparación en el nivel educativo de hombres y mujeres, la persistentedesigualdad en la división sexual del trabajo doméstico reduce el tiempolibre de las mujeres así como las habilidades, recursos y conexionessociales que podrían fomentar su implicación política, contribuyendo amantener las diferencias de género en el interés por la política.
Monodisperse Hollow Supraparticles via Selective Oxidation
Authors: Xia Yunsheng , Tang Zhiyong
Published: April 2012

A novel and general strategy to fabricate monodisperse hollow supraparticles (SPs) via selective chemical oxidation is developed. Core‐shell SPs made of semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) are first obtained by an in situ assembly method. Subsequently, the cores can be selectively removed by preferential oxidation with dilute H2O2, resulting in formation of monodisperse hollow SPs. The structural parameters of the products, such as size, shell thickness, and composition, are tailored easily. The hollow structures achieved from CdSe/CdS core‐shell SPs possess high fluorescence quantum yields and a large Stokes shift, the latter is remarkably different from that of conventional organic dyes and quantum dots. In addition to simple hollow structures, rattle‐type nanostructures composed of semiconductor SPs or noble metal‐semiconductor hybrids are also prepared, exemplifying the versatility of the proposed strategy.
Structure‐Reactivity Studies of Simple 4‐Hydroxyprolinamide Organocatalysts in the Asymmetric Michael Addition Reaction of Aldehydes to Nitroolefins
Authors: Watts John , Luu Lien , McKee Vickie , Carey Ed , Kelleher Fintan
Published: April 2012

A series of simple 4‐hydroxyprolinamides was synthesised and they were found to act as organocatalysts for the asymmetric conjugate addition of aldehydes to nitroolefins in excellent yields (98%), with complete diastereoselectivity (99:1, syn:anti) and enantioselectivity (98% ee for syn). Furthermore, the use of low catalyst loadings (5 mol%) and a low aldehyde molar excess (1.5 equivalents) were achieved.
Platinum(II) Diphosphinamine Complexes for the Efficient Hydration of Alkynes in Micellar Media
Authors: Trentin Francesco , Chapman Andrew M. , Scarso Alessandro , Sgarbossa Paolo , Michelin Rino A. , Strukul Giorgio , Wass Duncan F.
Published: April 2012

Highly active monomeric bis‐cationic platinum(II) catalysts bearing small bite angle diphosphinamine [N,N‐bis(diarylphosphino)amine] ‘PNP’ ligands efficiently catalyze Markovnikov hydration of terminal and internal alkynes to the corresponding ketones in water. Catalyst solubilization in water is achieved via ion pairing with anionic micelles formed by surfactant addition. The micelles ensure dissolution of apolar alkynes and promote the intimate contact between reagents and catalyst, while in organic‐water media in the absence of surfactants the reaction is sluggish. Hydration products can be isolated by means of extraction with an apolar solvent and the catalyst, that remains confined in the aqueous phase, can be recycled up to four times without loss of catalytic activity.