bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of slaughtering operations on carcass contamination in an Irish pork production plant
Authors: Wheatley Paul , Giotis Efstathios S , McKevitt Aideen I
Published: January 2014

Background

Microbiological standards within pork slaughter processing plants in the European Union are currently governed by Commission Regulation (EC) 2073/2005, which describes detailed performance criteria at specific stages of the procedure (following carcass dressing and before chilling) for total viable counts (TVC), Enterobacteriaceae (EB) and Salmonella spp. In this study, 95 carcasses from an Irish pork slaughter plant were sampled by swabbing 100 cm2 of surface at three sites (belly, ham, jowl) to examine the effects of eight processing stages (stunning, bleeding, scalding, singeing, polishing, evisceration, final inspection and chilling) on contamination levels.

Results

TVC ranged from approximately 1.7–6.3 log cfu cm2 during sampling. There were significant reductions in TVC for all sites after scalding and singeing (p < 0.05), whilst there was a significant increase in counts after polishing and evisceration (p < 0.05) compared with preceding stages. EB counts indicated hygienic weak points in the examined slaughter plant leading to faecal (cross)-contamination, with elevated counts after stunning, bleeding and evisceration (p < 0.05), compared with final counts after chilling.

Conclusions

Although the bacterial numbers reported in this study may reflect specific plant practices and temporal influences, results show that contamination can be introduced at various steps in the process and highlight the importance of monitoring locations other than those required by legislation within the process. Monitoring can be used to establish baseline levels for high-risk stages specific to each plant and to assess the effectiveness of additional interventions.
Altered expression of protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 22 isoforms in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Chang Hui-Hsin , Tseng William , Cui Jing , Costenbader Karen , Ho I-Cheng
Published: January 2014

Introduction

A C-to-T single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) located at position 1858 of human protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22) complementary DNA (cDNA) is associated with an increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). How the overall activity of PTPN22 is regulated and how the expression of PTPN22 differs between healthy individuals and patients with lupus are poorly understood. Our objectives were to identify novel alternatively spliced forms of PTPN22 and to examine the expression of PTPN22 isoforms in healthy donors and patients with lupus.

Methods

Various human PTPN22 isoforms were identified from the GenBank database or amplified directly from human T cells. The expression of these isoforms in primary T cells and macrophages was examined with real-time polymerase chain reaction. The function of the isoforms was determined with luciferase assays. Blood samples were collected from 49 subjects with SLE and 15 healthy controls. Correlation between the level of PTPN22 isoforms in peripheral blood and clinical features of SLE was examined with statistical analyses.

Results

Human PTPN22 was expressed in several isoforms, which differed in their level of expression and subcellular localization. All isoforms except one were functionally interchangeable in regulating NFAT activity. SLE patients expressed higher levels of PTPN22 than healthy individuals and the levels of PTPN22 were negatively correlated with the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SLICC-DI).

Conclusions

The overall activity of PTPN22 is determined by the functional balance among all isoforms. The levels of PTPN22 isoforms in peripheral blood could represent a useful biomarker of SLE.
Dendritic cell membrane CD83 enhances immune responses by boosting intracellular calcium release in T lymphocytes
Authors: Pinho Mariana Pereira , Migliori Isabella Katz , Flatow Elizabeth Alexandra , Barbuto José Alexandre M
Published: January 2014

CD83 is a marker of mDCs directly related to their lymphostimulatory ability. Some data suggest that it has a central role in the immune system regulation, but how this function is performed remains to be determined. This work aimed to analyze the influence of CD83, present in mDCs, in the modulation of calcium signaling in T lymphocytes. Mo were differentiated into iDCs and activated with TNF-α. iDCs were treated, 4 h before activation, with siRNACD83, to reduce CD83 expression. Purified allogeneic T lymphocytes were labeled with the calcium indicator Fluo-4-AM, and calcium mobilization in the presence of mDCs was analyzed. CD83 knockdown mDCs induced lower calcium signal amplitude in T lymphocytes (29.0±10.0) compared with siRNAscr-treated mDCs (45.5±5.3). In another set of experiments, surface mDC CD83 was blocked with a specific mAb, and again, decreased calcium signaling in T lymphocytes was detected by flow cytometry and microscopy (fluorescence and confocal). In the presence of antibody, the percentage of responding T cells was reduced from 58.14% to 34.29%. As expected, anti-CD83 antibodies also reduced the proliferation of T lymphocytes (as assessed by CFSE dilution). Finally, in the absence of extracellular calcium, CD83 antibodies abrogated T cell signaling induced by allogeneic mDCs, suggesting that the presence of CD83 in mDC membranes enhances T lymphocyte proliferation by boosting calcium release from intracellular stores in these cells.
A requirement of dendritic cell-derived interleukin-27 for the tumor infiltration of regulatory T cells
Authors: Xia Siyuan , Wei Jun , Wang Jingya , Sun Huayan , Zheng Wenting , Li Yangguang , Sun Yanbo , Zhao Huiyuan , Zhang Song , Wen Ti , Zhou Xinglong , Gao Jian-Xin , Wang Puyue , Wu Zhenzhou , Zhao Liqing , Yin Zhinan
Published: January 2014

Tregs (Foxp3+CD4+) are enriched in tumors to foster a tolerant microenvironment that inhibits antitumor immune response. IL-27 is reported to regulate the development and function of Tregs in vitro and in vivo; however, the effects of endogenous IL-27 on Tregs in the tumor microenvironment remain elusive. We demonstrated that in the absence of DC-derived IL-27, Tregs were decreased significantly in transplanted B16 melanoma, transplanted EL-4 lymphoma, and MCA-induced fibrosarcoma by using IL-27p28 conditional KO mice. Further studies revealed that IL-27 promoted the expression of CCL22, which is established to mediate the recruitment of peripheral Tregs into tumors. Tumor-associated DCs were identified as the major source of CCL22 in tumor sites, and IL-27 could induce CCL22 expression in an IL-27R-dependent manner. Intratumoral reconstitution of rmCCL22 or rmIL-27, but not rmIL-27p28, significantly restored the tumor infiltration of Tregs in IL-27p28 KO mice. Correlated with a decreased number of Tregs, tumor-infiltrating CD4 T cells were found to produce much more IFN-γ in IL-27p28 KO mice, which highlighted the physiological importance of Tregs in suppressing an antitumor immune response. Overall, our results identified a novel mechanism of action of IL-27 on Tregs in the context of cancers.
Group problem-solving skills training for self-harm: randomised controlled trial
Authors: McAuliffe Carmel , McLeavey Breda C. , Fitzgerald Tony , Corcoran Paul , Carroll Bernie , Ryan Louise , O'Keeffe Brian , Fitzgerald Eva , Hickey Portia , O'Regan Mary , Mulqueen Jillian , Arensman Ella
Published: January 2014

Background

Rates of self-harm are high and have recently increased. This trend and the repetitive nature of self-harm pose a significant challenge to mental health services.

Aims

To determine the efficacy of a structured group problem-solving skills training (PST) programme as an intervention approach for self-harm in addition to treatment as usual (TAU) as offered by mental health services.

Method

A total of 433 participants (aged 18–64 years) were randomly assigned to TAU plus PST or TAU alone. Assessments were carried out at baseline and at 6-week and 6-month follow-up and repeated hospital-treated self-harm was ascertained at 12-month follow-up.

Results

The treatment groups did not differ in rates of repeated self-harm at 6-week, 6-month and 12-month follow-up. Both treatment groups showed significant improvements in psychological and social functioning at follow-up. Only one measure (needing and receiving practical help from those closest to them) showed a positive treatment effect at 6-week (P= 0.004) and 6-month (P= 0.01) follow-up. Repetition was not associated with waiting time in the PST group.

Conclusions

This brief intervention for self-harm is no more effective than treatment as usual. Further work is required to establish whether a modified, more intensive programme delivered sooner after the index episode would be effective.
Private Payers and Cancer Care: Land of Opportunity
Authors: Klein Ira , Kolodziej Michael
Published: January 2014

The authors conclude that future changes in payment for oncology services mandated by CMS can be sustained within the infrastructures being built today through payer-provider collaborations.
Reduction in Chemotherapy Order Errors With Computerized Physician Order Entry
Authors: Meisenberg Barry R. , Wright Robert R. , Brady-Copertino Catherine J.
Published: January 2014

The authors demonstrate that computerized physician order entry creation of chemotherapy orders has clear advantages over handwritten and preprinted ordering methods.
Is Physician Employment by Health Systems an Answer?
Authors: Gosfield Alice G.
Published: January 2014

There are many predicates underlying the trend of hospitals and health system giving higher salaries and longer contract terms in an effort to secure oncologists for employment, demonstrated to be a money-losing proposition for hospitals.
Obamacare: Why Should We Care?
Authors: Zwelling Leonard , Kantarjian Hagop M.
Published: January 2014

Opinions regarding the Affordable Care Act are divided along partisan lines: Democrats mostly approve of the ACA; Republicans mostly reject the ACA. As physicians, the authors believe the premises of ACA are good overall.
Where Do Patients With Cancer in Iowa Receive Radiation Therapy?
Authors: Ward Marcia M. , Ullrich Fred , Matthews Kevin , Rushton Gerard , Tracy Roger , Goldstein Michael A. , Bajorin Dean F. , Kosty Michael P. , Bruinooge Suanna S. , Hanley Amy , Jacobson Geraldine M. , Lynch Charles F.
Published: January 2014

The authors examine access issues in Iowa and determine a methodology for conducting a national analysis.
Access to Chemotherapy Services by Availability of Local and Visiting Oncologists
Authors: Ward Marcia M. , Ullrich Fred , Matthews Kevin , Rushton Gerard , Tracy Roger , Bajorin Dean F. , Goldstein Michael A. , Kosty Michael P. , Bruinooge Suanna S. , Hanley Amy , Lynch Charles F.
Published: January 2014

Access to cancer care is dependent on the absolute number of providers, but it is also dependent on their geographic distribution.
Help Wanted!
Authors: Cooper Richard A. (Buz)
Published: January 2014

Oncologists face many challenges, from tightening reimbursement to escalating regulation and compliance, but none will be as difficult to cope with as an inadequate supply of physicians and oncology NPCs.
Activation of Hepatic Inflammatory Pathways by Catecholamines Is Associated With Hepatic Insulin Resistance in Male Ischemic Stroke Rats
Authors: Wang Ya-Yu , Lin Shih-Yi , Chuang Yu-Han , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng , Tung Kwong-Chung , Chen Chun-Jung
Published: January 2014

Patients who experience acute ischemic stroke may develop hyperglycemia, even in the absence of diabetes. In the current study we determined the effects of acute stroke on hepatic insulin signaling, TNF-α expression, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, the activities of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), inhibitor κB kinase β (IKK-β), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathways. Rats with cerebral ischemia developed higher blood glucose, and insulin levels, and insulin resistance index, as well as hepatic gluconeogenic enzyme expression compared with the sham-treated group. The hepatic TNF-α mRNA and protein levels were elevated in stroke rats in association with increased ER stress, phosphorylation of JNK1/2 and IKK-β proteins, IκB/NF-κB signaling, and phosphorylation of insulin receptor-1 (IRS-1) at serine residue. The basal and insulin-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1 and AKT proteins was reduced. In addition, acute stroke increased circulating catecholamines in association with hepatic adrenergic signaling activation. After administration of a nonselective β-adrenergic receptor blocker (propranolol) before induction of cerebral ischemic injury, hepatic adrenergic transduction, TNF-α expression, ER stress, and the activation of the JNK1/2, IKK-β, and NF-κB pathways, and serine phosphorylation of IRS-1 were all attenuated. In contrast, the phosphorylated IRS-1 at tyrosine site and AKT levels were partially restored with improved poststroke hyperglycemia and insulin resistance index. These results suggest that acute ischemic stroke can activate proinflammatory pathways in the liver by the catecholamines and is associated with the development of hepatic insulin resistance.
Metformin Inhibits Androgen-Induced IGF-IR Up-Regulation in Prostate Cancer Cells by Disrupting Membrane-Initiated Androgen Signaling
Authors: Malaguarnera Roberta , Sacco Antonella , Morcavallo Alaide , Squatrito Sebastiano , Migliaccio Antimo , Morrione Andrea , Maggiolini Marcello , Belfiore Antonino
Published: January 2014

We have previously demonstrated that, in prostate cancer cells, androgens up-regulate IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) by inducing cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) activation and CREB-dependent IGF-IR gene transcription through androgen receptor (AR)-dependent membrane-initiated effects. This IGF-IR up-regulation is not blocked by classical antiandrogens and sensitizes cells to IGF-I-induced biological effects. Metformin exerts complex antitumoral functions in various models and may inhibit CREB activation in hepatocytes. We, therefore, evaluated whether metformin may affect androgen-dependent IGF-IR up-regulation. In the AR+ LNCaP prostate cancer cells, we found that metformin inhibits androgen-induced CRE activity and IGF-IR gene transcription. CRE activity requires the formation of a CREB-CREB binding protein-CREB regulated transcription coactivator 2 (CRTC2) complex, which follows Ser133-CREB phosphorylation. Metformin inhibited Ser133-CREB phosphorylation and induced nuclear exclusion of CREB cofactor CRTC2, thus dissociating the CREB-CREB binding protein-CRTC2 complex and blocking its transcriptional activity. Similarly to metformin action, CRTC2 silencing inhibited IGF-IR promoter activity. Moreover, metformin blocked membrane-initiated signals of AR to the mammalian target of rapamycin/p70S6Kinase pathway by inhibiting AR phosphorylation and its association with c-Src. AMPK signals were also involved to some extent. By inhibiting androgen-dependent IGF-IR up-regulation, metformin reduced IGF-I-mediated proliferation of LNCaP cells. These results indicate that, in prostate cancer cells, metformin inhibits IGF-I-mediated biological effects by disrupting membrane-initiated AR action responsible for IGF-IR up-regulation and suggest that metformin could represent a useful adjunct to the classical antiandrogen therapy.
Assessing the Impact of Growth Hormone Deficiency and Treatment in Adults: Development of a New Disease-Specific Measure
Authors: Brod Meryl , Højbjerre Lise , Adalsteinsson Johan Erpur , Rasmussen Michael Højby
Published: January 2014

Context:

Approximately 50 000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with GH deficiency, which has negative impacts on cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, and quality of life.

Objective:

This paper presents development and validation of a patient-reported outcome measure (PRO), the Treatment-Related Impact Measure-Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (TRIM-AGHD). The TRIM-AGHD was developed to measure the impact of GH deficiency and its treatment.

Design and Settings:

The development and validation of the TRIM-AGHD was conducted according to the Food and Drug Administration guidance on the development of PROs. Concept elicitation, conducted in three countries included interviews with patients, clinical experts, and literature review. Qualitative data were analyzed based on grounded theory principles, and draft items were cognitively debriefed. The measure underwent psychometric validation in a US clinic-based population. An a priori statistical analysis plan included assessment of the measurement model, reliability, and validity. Item functioning was reviewed using item response theory analyses.

Patients or Other Participants:

Forty-eight patients and six clinical experts participated in concept elicitation and 169 patients completed the validation study.

Main Outcome Measure:

TRIM-AGHD was measured.

Results:

Factor analysis resulted in four domains: energy level, physical health, emotional health, and cognitive ability. The item response theory confirmed adequate item fit and placement within their domain. Internal consistency ranged from 0.82 to 0.95 and test-retest ranged from 0.80 to 0.92. All prespecified hypotheses for convergent validity and all but two for discriminant validity were met.

Conclusions:

The final 26-item TRIM-AGHD can be considered a reliable and valid PRO of the impact of disease and treatment for adult GH deficiency.
Type Iγ phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinase targets to the centrosome and restrains centriole duplication
Authors: Xu Qingwen , Zhang Yuxia , Xiong Xunhao , Huang Yan , Salisbury Jeffery L. , Hu Jinghua , Ling Kun
Published: January 2014

Centriole biogenesis depends on the Polo-like kinase PLK4 and a small group of structural proteins. The spatiotemporal regulation of these proteins at pre-existing centrioles is critical to ensure that centriole duplication occurs once per cell cycle. Here we report that type Iγ phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIPKIγ) plays an important role in centriole fidelity. Depending upon an association with CEP152, PIPKIγ localized in a ring-like pattern in the intermediate pericentriolar materials around the proximal end of the centriole in G1, S, and G2 phases, but not in M phase. Without detaining cells in S or M phase, depletion of PIPKIγ led to centriole amplification in a PLK4/SAS-6 dependent manner. Expression of exogenous PIPKIγ reduced centriole amplification resulted from endogenous PIPKIγ depletion, hydroxyurea treatment, or PLK4 overexpression, suggesting that PIPKIγ likely functions at the PLK4 level to restrain centriole duplication. Importantly, we found that PIPKIγ bound to the cryptic Polo-Box domain of PLK4 and this binding reduced PLK4 kinase activity. Together, our findings suggest that PIPKIγ is a novel negative regulator of centriole duplication by modulating the homeostasis of PLK4 activity.
A Pil1-Sle1-Syj1-Tax4 functional pathway links eisosomes with PI(4,5)P2 regulation
Authors: Kabeche Ruth , Roguev Assen , Krogan Nevan J. , Moseley James B.
Published: January 2014

Stable compartments of the plasma membrane promote a wide range of cellular functions. In yeast cells, cytosolic structures called eisosomes generate prominent cortical invaginations of unknown function. Through a series of genetic screens in fission yeast, we found that the eisosome proteins Pil1 and Sle1 function with the synaptojanin-like lipid phosphatase Syj1 and its ligand Tax4. This genetic pathway connects eisosome function with PI(4,5)P2 hydrolysis in cells. Defects in PI(4,5)P2 regulation led to eisosome defects, and we found that the core eisosome protein Pil1 can bind and tubulate liposomes containing PI(4,5)P2. Mutations in the Pil1-Sle1-Syj1-Tax4 pathway suppress the growth and morphology defects of TORC2 mutants, indicating that eisosome-dependent regulation of PI(4,5)P2 feeds into signal transduction pathways. We propose that the geometry of membrane invaginations generates spatial and temporal signals for lipid-mediated signaling events in cells.
Stress inhibition of melatonin synthesis in the pineal organ of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is mediated by cortisol.
Authors: López-Patiño Marcos A. , Gesto Manuel , Conde-Sieira Marta , Soengas José L. , Míguez Jesús M.
Published: January 2014

Cortisol has been suggested to mediate the effect of stress on pineal melatonin synthesis in fish. Therefore, we aimed to determine how pineal melatonin synthesis is affected by exposing rainbow trout to different stressors, such as hypoxia, chasing and high stocking density. In addition, to test the hypothesis of cortisol as mediator of such stress-induced effects, a set of animals were IP implanted with coconut oil alone or containing cortisol (50 mg.kg-1 bw) and sampled 5 h or 48 h post injection at mid-day and mid-night. The specificity of such effect was also assessed in cultured pineal organs exposed to cortisol alone or with the general glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, mifepristone (RU486). The patterns of plasma and pineal organ melatonin content displaying highest values at night were affected by stressors (in particular chasing and high stocking density), resulting in decreased plasma and pineal organ melatonin content in both time periods, but with the most robust effect being found at night. The decrease in nocturnal melatonin levels in the pineal organ of stressed fish was accompanied by increased serotonin content and decreased AANAT2 enzymatic activity and mRNA abundance. Similar effects on pineal melatonin synthesis to those elicited by stress were observed in trout implanted with cortisol for either 5 h or 48 h. These data indicate that stress influences negatively the synthesis of melatonin in the pineal organ, thus attenuating the day-night variations of circulating melatonin. The effect might be be mediated by increased cortisol levels which bind to trout pineal organ specific glucocorticoid receptors to modulate melatonin rhythms. Our results in cultured pineal organs are on its support. Considering the relevant role of melatonin conveying photoperiodical information to the synchronization of daily and annual rhythms, the results suggest that stress-induced alterations in melatonin synthesis could affect the availability of fish to integrate rhythmic environmental information.
Periodic heartbeat reversals cause cardiogenic inspiration and expiration with coupled spiracle leakage in resting blowfliesCalliphora vicinaR.-D.
Authors: Wasserthal Lutz T.
Published: January 2014

Respiration in insects is thought to be independent of the circulatory system because insects typically lack respiratory pigments and because oxygen transport occurs in the gaseous phase via a ramified tracheal system by diffusion and convection directly to the tissues. In the blowfly, as in other insects with periodic heartbeat reversal, the haemolymph is periodically shifted between the anterior body and abdomen, exerting alternating pressure changes on the compliant tracheae in the thorax and reciprocally in the abdomen. Simultaneous pressure and O2-optode measurements show that, during negative pressure periods, the tracheal PO2 increases by 0.5 kPa. In the quiescent fly, tracheal PO2 is rather high (17.5–18.9 kPa), although the thoracic spiracles remain constricted. Microscopic video records and reflectance measurements revealed that the dorsal soft edges of the valve lips of the second spiracle leave a very small leak, which is passively widened during backward pulses of the heart. Thus, negative pressure, combined with increased leakage of the Sp2 valve enable inspiration in the thorax. The positive pressure periods are correlated with a new type of convective CO2 micro-bursts as shown in flow-through measurements. The bulk of the CO2 is, however, released after longer interbursts in macro-bursts with valves opening actively reminding of the open phase in a cyclic gas exchange (CGE). When the valves open, the PO2 in the thoracic air sacs unexpectedly drops by a mean of 2.75±1.09 kPa, suggesting a displacement of O2 by the transient accumulation of CO2 in the tracheal system before its release.
Neurohormonal changes associated with ritualized combat and the formation of a reproductive hierarchy in the antHarpegnathos saltator
Authors: Penick Clint A. , Brent Colin S. , Dolezal Kelly , Liebig Jürgen
Published: January 2014

Dominance rank in animal societies is correlated with changes in both reproductive physiology and behavior. In some social insects, dominance status is used to determine a reproductive division of labor, where a few colony members reproduce while most remain functionally sterile. Changes in reproduction and behavior in this context must be coordinated through crosstalk between the brain and the reproductive system. We investigated a role for biogenic amines in forming this connection in the ant Harpegnathos saltator. In this species, workers engage in an elaborate dominance tournament to establish a group of reproductive workers termed gamergates. We analyzed biogenic amine content in the brains of gamergates, inside workers, and foragers under stable colony conditions and found that gamergates had the highest levels of dopamine. Dopamine levels were also positively correlated with increased ovarian activity among gamergates. Next, we experimentally induced workers to compete in a reproductive tournament to determine how dopamine may be involved in the establishment of a new hierarchy. Dopamine levels rose in aggressive workers at the start of a tournament, while workers that were policed by their nestmates (a behavior that inhibits ovarian activity) showed a rapid decline in dopamine. In addition to dopamine, levels of serotonin and tyramine differed among castes, and these changes could contribute to differences in caste-specific behavioral patterns observed among non-reproductive workers. Overall, these results provide support that biogenic amines link changes in behavior and dominance with reproductive activity in H. saltator as well as drive differences in worker task performance.
Measuring gill paracellular permeability with polyethelene glycol-4000 in freely swimming trout: proof of principle
Authors: Robertson Lisa M. , Wood Chris M.
Published: January 2014

The influence of swimming activity on gill paracellular permeability has not been measured previously in fishes. We critically assessed the use of [3H]PEG-4000 for this purpose, a substance which is also a classic marker for extracellular fluid volume, glomerular filtration rate, and drinking rate. Tests (8h) on resting freshwater trout showed that when measuring [3H]PEG-4000 clearance from the plasma in the efflux direction, correction for a large excretion via glomerular filtration was essential, necessitating urinary catheterization. When measuring [3H]PEG-4000 clearance from the water in the influx direction, correction for a significant uptake by drinking was essential, necessitating terminal gut removal, whereas glomerular filtration losses were minimal. After correction for these alternate routes of loss and uptake, [3H]PEG-4000 clearance rates by efflux from the plasma and by influx from the water were identical, showing that gill paracellular permeability is not rectified, and can be measured in either direction. The influx technique with terminal gut removal was used to assess gill paracellular permeability in trout without urinary catheters freely swimming at 1.2 body lengths per sec for 8h. Branchial [3H]PEG-4000 clearance rate (by influx from the water) increased significantly by about 80% in accord with a similar measured increase in O2 consumption rate. Thus in trout, gill paracellular permeability does increase during exercise, in accord with the traditional concept of the osmorespiratory compromise.
Endogenous U2·U5·U6 snRNA complexes in S. pombe are intron lariat spliceosomes
Authors: Chen Weijun , Shulha Hennady P. , Ashar-Patel Ami , Yan Jing , Green Karin M. , Query Charles C. , Rhind Nick , Weng Zhiping , Moore Melissa J.
Published: January 2014

Excision of introns from pre-mRNAs is mediated by the spliceosome, a multi-megadalton complex consisting of U1, U2, U4/U6, and U5 snRNPs plus scores of associated proteins. Spliceosome assembly and disassembly are highly dynamic processes involving multiple stable intermediates. In this study, we utilized a split TAP-tag approach for large-scale purification of an abundant endogenous U2·U5·U6 complex from Schizosaccharomyces pombe. RNAseq revealed this complex to largely contain excised introns, indicating that it is primarily ILS (intron lariat spliceosome) complexes. These endogenous ILS complexes are remarkably resistant to both high-salt and nuclease digestion. Mass spectrometry analysis identified 68, 45, and 43 proteins in low-salt-, high-salt-, and micrococcal nuclease-treated preps, respectively. The protein content of a S. pombe ILS complex strongly resembles that previously reported for human spliced product (P) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae ILS complexes assembled on single pre-mRNAs in vitro. However, the ATP-dependent RNA helicase Brr2 was either substoichiometric in low-salt preps or completely absent from high-salt and MNase preps. Because Brr2 facilitates spliceosome disassembly, its relative absence may explain why the ILS complex accumulates logarithmically growing cultures and the inability of S. pombe extracts to support in vitro splicing.
The curriculum Development for the Profiled High School
Authors: Гузеев  , Gouzeev Viacheslav , Курчаткина  , Kurchatkina Irina
Published: January 2014

Preparation for profiled training should

start within the first years of schooling. Even at

the elementary school children can be conditionally

divided into three types, dependent on the

object of their predominant activity: «thinkers»,

«engineers», «artists». At primary school these

three types are further branched out into eight

metadisciplinary areas depending on work methods

used: individual, family, society, nature, art,

science, technology, semiotic systems. At the high

school level substantive objective profiles are introduced,

further supplemented by subprofiles,

which include disciplines of specialization and

deepening. To facilitate personal guidance and

support for primary and secondary school students,

and personalized profiled education at the

high school restructuring of educational content

is needed.
On Improvement of Teachers’ Methodological Competences in the Context of FGOS Introduction (FGOS — Federal state educational standards)
Authors: Усольцева  , Usoltseva Irina
Published: January 2014

The article tackles the issue of improving

school-teachers’ methodological competences

in the context of introducing FGOS — the

Federal state educational standards — via changing

approaches to the system of professional

development courses.
Vocational Orientation at Boarding Houses and Orphanages in Germany and Russia (Comparison pedagogical study)
Authors: Демченко  , Demchenko A. , Славгородская  , Slavgorodskaya Marina , Степанов  , Stepanov Nikolay , Балахнина  , Balakhnina S.
Published: January 2014

The authors present comparison pedagogic

study of vocational orientation and vocational

education among disabled young people,

as well as graduates of boarding schools and

orphanages in Russia and Germany.
Issues of Physical Education at Primary School in the Context of Current Educational System
Authors: Фомичев  , Fomichev Pavel
Published: January 2014

Issues of physical culture teaching in

primary school within the context of the current

educational system are discussed. Among considered

problems are such, as family upbringing

of children, public funding of education, school

teachers’ standard of living and professional

qualification; mortality at the physical training lessons.
Creating Unified Educational Environment Via Integration of Formal, Informal and Info-formal Educational Methods
Authors: Курбатова  , Kurbatova Elena
Published: January 2014

Russia has become a knowledge-based

society. The unified educational environment as

a means of continuous education could help school

students with the following goals: to gain learning

experience and development by means of different

sources of new knowledge; to develop habit

to learn; to realize the personal need for lifelong

education. The model of the unified educational

environment is presented.
McDonald's and KFC in China: Competitors or Companions?
Authors: Shen Qiaowei , Xiao Ping
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we study the entry and expansion decisions of McDonald's and KFC in China using an originally assembled data set on the two chains' expansion in the China market from their initial entry up to year 2007. We analyze how the presence of a rival affects each firm's strategies. The results indicate that a rival's presence has a net positive effect on a chain's expansion decision. We focus on testing two possible explanations for a positive rival impact: market learning and demand expansion. First, we derive a set of theoretical predictions on how a chain's optimal expansion decision would react to its rival's expansion patterns when market learning versus demand expansion is the driving force of the rival's positive influence. The empirical analysis based on these predictions consistently suggests that market learning is more likely to explain the positive effect of KFC on McDonald's and that demand expansion is more plausible with McDonald's positive spillover on KFC. In other words, the results are consistent with the presence of KFC signaling market demand potential and growth to McDonald's and the presence of McDonald's helping to cultivate consumer taste and generate demand for Western fast food, which benefits KFC.
Analytical Results and Efficient Algorithm for Optimal Portfolio Deleveraging with Market Impact
Authors: Chen Jingnan , Feng Liming , Peng Jiming , Ye Yinyu
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we consider an optimal portfolio deleveraging problem, where the objective is to meet specified debt/equity requirements at the minimal execution cost. Permanent and temporary price impact is taken into account. With no restrictions on the relative magnitudes of permanent and temporary price impact, the optimal deleveraging problem reduces to a nonconvex quadratic program with quadratic and box constraints. Analytical results on the optimal deleveraging strategy are obtained. They provide guidance on how we liquidate a portfolio according to endogenous and exogenous factors. A Lagrangian method is proposed to solve the nonconvex quadratic program numerically. By studying the breakpoints of the Lagrangian problem, we obtain conditions under which the Lagrangian method returns an optimal solution of the deleveraging problem. When the Lagrangian algorithm returns a suboptimal approximation, we present upper bounds on the loss in equity caused by using such an approximation.
Social Network Ties, Transactive Memory, and Performance in Groups
Authors: Lee Jeong-Yeon , Bachrach Daniel G. , Lewis Kyle
Published: January 2014

In a longitudinal quasi-field setting, we develop and test a compensatory process model of social network closure over time on the development of a transactive memory system (TMS) in groups. Although a great deal of research examines the effects of closure on organizational outcomes, that research does not describe the microprocesses that explain when, and under what conditions, closure is beneficial or detrimental. Results from our analysis of the microprocesses associated with TMSs revealed a negative direct effect of closure over time on TMS development and a simultaneous positive indirect effect of closure over time on TMS development driven by a transitive triadic social network structure. It is important to note that the mediating effect of the number of transitive triads on the relationship between closure and a TMS was predictive of subsequent group performance. Results from our study suggest that closure may be a double-edged sword and that the microprocesses associated with TMS development can explain closure’s disparate performance consequences.
Comparative Studies of Wine Produced from Pawpaw Juice and Coconut Milk Blend at Different Proportions
Authors: A Noah , O Alechenu , V Abiaziem , O Oduwobi
Published: January 2014

This study was aimed at establishing the possibility of producing an acceptable wine from the mixture of pawpaw juice and coconut milk in the following proportions; 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50 respectively.
The process of washing, peeling, extraction of juice, amelioration, clarification, sulphiting, pitching, fermentation, clarification, bottling, pasteurization and ageing were applied. The resulting wine from each proportion was analyzed for some of their physico-chemical and sensory properties and compared with a reference available commercial wine i.e. Calypso wine. pH values were 3.50, 3.52, 3.55, 3.64, 3.66; titratable acidity 0.71%, 0.69%, 0.68%, 0.66%, 0.63%; specific gravity 0.9722, 0.9789, 0.9869, 0.9918, 0.9922; temperature 32.0oC, 32.2oC, 32.2oC, 32.3oC, 32.3oC; brix 0.4o, 0.3o, 0.2o, 0.1o, 0.0o and alcohol 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6% respectively. With an increase in proportion of coconut milk, the results showed that the alcohol yield decreased from 10% at 90:10 of pawpaw juice and coconut milk blend to 6% at 50:50 proportions which is in trend with titratable acidity and brix but the pH, specific gravity and temperature increases respectively.

The sensory evaluation, which was carried out by trained panelists, showed that there was a significant difference at 5% confidence level and that the wine of 90:10 proportion of pawpaw juice and coconut milk blend scored favourably well with the comparative commercial wine.

This study has demonstrated that it is possible to produce wine from locally available fruit with good standard, high acceptability, and to promote their industrial utilization.
Characterization of Genetically Engineered Linamarase (β-glucosidase) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: harIkya Julius , Charles Charles , Ayatse James
Published: January 2014

The characterization parameters of genetically engineered linamarase (β-glucosidase) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae due to action of the enzyme on linamarin as influenced by degree of purification, pH and temperature were investigated. Commercial native linamarase (CNLIN) was used as control. Linamarase genes (chromosomal DNA) and plasmids (circular DNA) isolated from bitter cassava and yeast respectively were restricted and ligated to produce recombinant genes (r-DNA). The r-DNA were introduced into the nucleus of CaCl2 induced competent Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells which transformed into strains capable of producing genetically engineered linamarase (GELIN). Recombinant S. cerevisiae cells at the stationary phase of growth were recovered, homogenized and centrifuged to obtain crude extracts designated as GELIN0. Carboxy methyl cellulose, diethyl amino-ethyl-sephadex and diethyl amino-ethyl-cellulose were used to purify the crude extracts resulting in GELIN1, GELIN2 and GELIN3, respectively. The physical characterization parameters of the enzyme extracts such as impurity levels, molecular weights (Mwt), number of isoenzyme, sulphur amino acids (methionine and cysteine) and the electrical charges were evaluated using standard methods. The ability of the enzyme extracts and a commercial native linamarase (CNLIN) to hydrolyse cyanogenic glucosides was challenged using linamarin (cassava) as substrates for characterization of activity kinetic profiles such as optimum pH (pHopt), temperature (Topt), total activity, specific activity, purity fold, yield and efficiency ratio. The results indicated that the genetically engineered linamarase(β-glucosidase) consisted of 3 isoenzyme forms. Purification conferred different ionic charges of zero to GELIN0, unit positive charge GELIN1, and unit negative charge to GELIN2 and GELIN3 respectively. Ranges for other parameters were Mwt (22,000-26,000 Daltons), insoluble protein impurity (0.4 -3.5 mg/100g sample) and purity fold (11.5 -1.0) for GELIN3 - GELIN0). Methionine and cystiene varied from 2.0 to 2.6% and 3.0 to 20% respectively (CNLIN - GELIN3). The native commercial enzyme (CNLIN) acted only at pH 6.8 on linamarin with pHopt and Topt of 6.8 and 35 oC respectively. The wide pH tolerance and specific activity towards linamarin degradation suggest a possible use of the genetically engineered linamarase from S. cerevisiae in detoxification of cassava for increased production exportation of cassava-based food products.
Proximate Composition, Functional and Sensory Properties of Bambara Nut (Voandzeia subterranean), Cassava (Manihot esculentus) and Soybean (Glycine max) Flour Blends for “Akpekpa” Production
Authors: Igbabul Bibiana , Adole Doris , Sule S
Published: January 2014

Bambara nut (Voandzeia substerranean L.), cassava (Manihot esculenta) and soybean (Glycine max) flour blends were used in producing “akpekpa” which is similar to “okpa” wrapped in Thaumatococcus daniellii leaves (Ikya-kon). The blends at different percentages (Sample A = 100% Bambara nut flour, B = 80% Bambara nut flour + 20% cassava flour, C = 80% Bambara nut flour + 20% soyflour and D = 70% Bambara nut flour + 15% cassava flour + 15% s Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Agriculture Makurdi, Nigeria oyflour) were studied for proximate composition, functional and sensory properties of the akpekpa made from the flours. The result of the proximate composition showed significant difference (P­­­­­­< 0.05) in carbohydrate (62.87 – 67.88), fat (4.04 – 5.75), moisture (8.95 – 10.01) and protein (14.25 – 16.25), while ash (3.49 – 3.50) and fibre (1.40 – 1.45), showed no significant difference between the samples, measured in percentages. The result of functional properties also showed significant difference (P­­­­­­< 0.05) in foaming capacity (11.77 – 23.77ml/g) and water absorption capacity (1.93 – 2.15g/g), while bulk density (0.69 – 0.71g/cm3), oil absorption capacity (2.26 – 2.73g/g) and gelation concentration (4.00% w/v) showed no significant difference between the samples. The result for sensory characteristics also showed significant differences at (P­­­­­­< 0.05) in taste (6.27 – 7.73), flavor (6.20 – 7.80), colour (7.00 – 7.93) and general acceptability (6.47 – 7.80), while there was no significant difference in texture (6.67 – 7.13) between the samples. From the sensory scores, akpekpa produced from 80% Bambara nut, 20% cassava flour and 80% Bambara nut , 20% soy flour were well accepted. The supplementation of bambara nut flour with 20% cassava flour was most acceptable followed by that with 20% soyflour.
Quality of Community Based Nutrition of Integrated Refresher Training Provided for Health Extension Workers in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tessema Masresha , Samuel Aregash , Assef Tsehai , Hailu Tesfaye , Kuche Desalegn , Kebede Aweke
Published: January 2014

Improving nutrition contributes to productivity, economic development, and poverty reduction by getting better cognitive development, school performance, physical work capacity, and maintaining health status by reducing morbidity and mortality. Poor nutrition perpetuate the cycle of poverty. Community-Based Nutrition (CBN) is an important component of the National Nutrition Program, designed to build upon the Health Extension Program packages to improve nutritional status of under-five children and pregnant and lactating women. As part of this program shift, CBN training modules have been shortened and incorporated into the Integrated Refresher Training (IRT). The nutrition components of Integrated Refresher Training have not been assessed so far. This study aims to assess the quality of CBN component of integrated refresher training, stakeholder perceptions on the quality of training and change in the knowledge of HEWs. Institutional based cross-sectional study with both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods was used. Four Woredas were chosen purposively from a listing of all woredas receiving IRT module II in Amhararegion from June-July 2012. Many MTs and trainees mentioned difficulty of delivering the training as designed due to shortage of time allocated. This was alsoobserved in IRT sessions where MTs used additional than allocated time. Even though most trainees said the training on CBN component was adequate to give services to the community and significant knowledge change (p<0.05) was seen by participants after the training, it was observed that they failed to give all the appropriate advice related to CBN component during the field practice. Most of the HEWs reported that there was no supportive supervision for the last four months. In conclusion; the training that were given in four selected woredas of Amhara region were not quality wise and as designed. The IRT of nutrition component lack reporting and monitoring format. In all nutrition components of IRT and the allocated time for training is too short. The IRT of nutrition component is also not adequate for health extension workers to accomplish community based nutrition program. Thus, there should be additional training for the health extension workers.
Weight Change During Hospitalization in a Tertiary Cardiological Center in Sri Lanka
Authors: Pathirana Anidu , Jayawardena Ranil , Ranathunga Ishara , Santharaj W , Premaratne Sandamali , Lokunarangoda Niroshan
Published: January 2014

Malnutrition is common in hospitalized patients and many undergo further deterioration of the nutritional level during the stay at the hospital. Patients who are malnourished on admission have a tendency to further depletion of nutrition level during the hospital stay. The aim of this study was to assess the weight changes of hospitalized patients during the hospital admission. Body weight was measured on admission and discharge for two hundred and ninety four patients in a cardiology hospital. Body mass index (BMI) cut offs were used to categorized patients to underweight (BMI<18.5kg.m-2), normal (18.5-22.9kg.m-2), overweight (23.0-24.9kg.m-2), obese (25.0-29.9kg.m-2) and very obese.Study population included 190 (64.4%) males and 105 (35.6%) females. One hundred and twenty eight (43.4%) patients lost their weight, while 131 (44.4%) and 36 (12.2%) patients had gained and had no change in their weight respectively. Of the patients who had their BMI in the underweight category (26, 8.81%), most (15, 57.7%) gained their weight. In the normal BMI range (112, 37.97%) majority (51, 45.5%) gained their weight. In the category of overweight (64, 21.69%), half of the patients (32, 50.0%) lost their weight. Forty three patients (46.23%) who were in the obese or very obese category (93, 31.53%) lost their weight. Weight changes within different BMI categories were not statistically significant (P=0.19). Two fifths of patients lost their weight during the hospital stay irrespective of the BMI categories.
Novel Treatment Route for Preparation and Characterization of Carboxymethyl Cellulose
Authors: Vargantwar Pruthesh H. , Mittal Khushboo , Hauser Peter , Smith Brent , Hashem Mohammad
Published: January 2014

A novel route of partial carboxymethylation, termed pad-dry-pad-cure, was investigated using conventional fabric processing equipment. The effect of process parameters such as concentration of sodium hydroxide, curing time, and concentration of ammonium monochloroacetate on the carboxymethylation content was probed. The treatment was characterized for uniformity by laser scanning confocal microscopy and for changes in fiber cross-sectional geometry by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Confocal micrographs revealed the occurrence of treatment uniformly across the fiber cross sections, whereas SEM showed the resultant oval cross sections of the treated fibers.