Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Transcription Factors Sp1 and Sp3 Alter Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Expression through a Novel Recognition Sequence*

Kinase domain receptor (KDR) is a high affinity, endothelial cell-specific, autophosphorylating tyrosine kinase receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor. This transcriptionally regulated receptor is a critical mediator of endothelial cell (EC) growth and vascular development. In this study, we identify a DNA element modulating KDR promoter activity and evaluate the nuclear binding proteins accounting for a portion of the cell-type specificity of the region. KDR promoter luciferase activity was retained within −85/+296 and was 10–30-fold higher in EC than non-EC. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrated specific nuclear protein binding to −85/−64, and single point mutations suggested important binding nucleotides between −79/−68 with five critical bases between −74/−70 (5′-CTCCT-3′). DNA-protein complexes were displaced by Sp1 consensus sequence oligodeoxynucleotides and supershifted by Sp1- and Sp3-specific antibodies. Sp1 and Sp3 protein in EC nuclear extracts bound the −79/−68 region even when all surrounding classic Sp1 recognition sites were removed. Sp1 protein in nuclear extracts was 4–24-fold higher in EC than non-EC, whereas Sp3 was 3–7-fold higher. Sp1/Sp3 ratios in EC were 2–10-fold higher. Overexpression of Sp1 protein increased KDR promoter activity 3-fold in both EC and non-EC, whereas simultaneous co-expression of Sp3 attenuated this response. An Sp1 consensus sequence ciselement “decoy” reduced EC KDR promoter activity and mRNA expression by 85 and 69%, respectively. An antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide to Sp1 inhibited Sp1 and KDR protein expression by 66 and 68%, respectively, without changing Sp3 protein expression. These data illustrate that Sp1 and Sp3 modulate KDR promoter activity through a novel recognition binding sequence. However, since Sp1-mediated promoter activation is attenuated by Sp3, endothelial selective KDR promoter activity may be partially regulated by variations in the Sp1/Sp3 ratio.
Involvement of Pro-Inflammatory Macrophages in Liver Pathology of Pirital Virus-Infected Syrian Hamsters

New World arenaviruses cause fatal hemorrhagic disease in South America. Pirital virus (PIRV), a mammarenavirus hosted by Alston’s cotton rat (Sigmodon alstoni), causes a disease in Syrian golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) (biosafety level-3, BSL-3) that has many pathologic similarities to the South American hemorrhagic fevers (BSL-4) and, thus, is considered among the best small-animal models for human arenavirus disease. Here, we extend in greater detail previously described clinical and pathological findings in Syrian hamsters and provide evidence for a pro-inflammatory macrophage response during PIRV infection. The liver was the principal target organ of the disease, and signs of Kupffer cell involvement were identified in mortally infected hamster histopathology data. Differential expression analysis of liver mRNA revealed signatures of the pro-inflammatory response, hematologic dysregulation, interferon pathway and other host response pathways, including 17 key transcripts that were also reported in two non-human primate (NHP) arenavirus liver-infection models, representing both Old and New World mammarenavirus infections. Although antigen presentation may differ among rodent and NHP species, key hemostatic and innate immune-response components showed expression parallels. Signatures of pro-inflammatory macrophage involvement in PIRV-infected livers included enrichment of Ifng, Nfkb2, Stat1, Irf1, Klf6, Il1b, Cxcl10, and Cxcl11 transcripts. Together, these data indicate that pro-inflammatory macrophage M1 responses likely contribute to the pathogenesis of acute PIRV infection.
CO2 Emissions and tourism in developed and less developed countries

Tourism is a major contributor to CO2 emissions and therefore to climate change. In this article, we look at the relationships between CO2 emissions and tourism in the context of both developed and less developed countries. We utilize a STIRPAT approach applied to a balanced panel data of developed and less developed countries for the period from 1998 to 2006. The results show that tourism contributes significantly to CO2 emissions in both less developed and developed countries. However, the impact in developed countries is larger than in less developed countries. Tourism should find sustainable development paths involving less CO2 emissions in the production and consumption of tourist services.
Commentary: At least eighty percent of brain grey matter is modifiable by physical activity: a review study

Center for Cognitve and Brain Health, Department of Psychology, Northeastern Unviersity, Boston, MA, United States, 2 PROmoting FITness and Health through Physical Activity Research Group, Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain, Department of Experimental Psychology, Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Granada, Spain, Department of Physical Therapy, Movement & Rehabilitation Sciences, Northeastern Unviersity, Boston, MA, United States, Beckman Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States, Brain Aging & Cognitive Health Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States, Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet,
Dietary supplementation with v itamins C and E pre v ents downregulation of endothelial NOS expression in hypercholesterolemia in v i v o and in v itro

Impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation has been associated with decreased NO bioavailability in hypercholesterolemia. This study aimed to determine whether antioxidant vitamins C and E could improve hypercholesterolemia-derived endothelial dysfunction in the porcine model, and whether observed in vivo results could be reproduced in vitro by incubation of coronary endothelial cells (EC) in the presence of native low-density lipoproteins (LDL). Adult mini-pigs were fed standard (C), cholesterol rich (HC) or cholesterol rich diet supplemented with vitamins C and E (HCV). Endothelium-dependent blood flow increase in response to acetylcholine was determined. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression was measured in arterial samples and in EC incubated with LDL isolated from porcine plasma. Vasomotor response to acetylcholine in HC was significantly lower (P B/ 0.05) than control and HCV. There was a significant (P B/0.05) decrease in eNOS immunoreactivity in HC, compared with HCV and control. Native LDL from HC, but not from HCV, induced a significant decrease in eNOS expression. Vitamins C and E treatment improved the endothelium-dependent vasomotor capacity and prevented decreased expression of eNOS in hypercholesterolemic pigs. A similar effect could be demonstrated in vitro, by incubation of EC with native LDL, suggesting that the effect of physiologically-modified LDL on eNOS could have a role in recovering vascular function. # 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keratinocyte-associated protein 2 is a bona fide subunit of the mammalian oligosaccharyltransferase

The oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex catalyses the N-glycosylation of polypeptides entering the endoplasmic reticulum, a process essential for the productive folding and trafficking of many secretory and membrane proteins. In eukaryotes, the OST typically comprises a homologous catalytic STT3 subunit complexed with several additional components that are usually conserved, and that often function to modulate N-glycosylation efficiency. By these criteria, the status of keratinocyte-associated protein 2 (KCP2) was unclear: it was found to co-purify with the canine OST suggesting it is part of the complex but, unlike most other subunits, no potential homologues are apparent in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this study we have characterised human KCP2 and show that the predominant species results from an alternative initiation of translation to form an integral membrane protein with three transmembrane spans. KCP2 localises to the endoplasmic reticulum, consistent with a role in protein biosynthesis, and has a functional KKxx retrieval signal at its cytosolic C-terminus. Native gel analysis suggests that the majority of KCP2 assembles into a distinct ~500 kDa complex that also contains several bona fide OST subunits, most notably the catalytic STT3A isoform. Co-immunoprecipitation studies confirmed a robust and specific physical interaction between KCP2 and STT3A, and revealed weaker associations with both STT3B and OST48. Taken together, these data strongly support the proposal that KCP2 is a newly identified subunit of the N-glycosylation machinery present in a subset of eukaryotes.
An internalization theory rationale for MNE regional strategy

Purpose – This paper seeks to demonstrate that internalization theory, as a “complete” theory of the firm, is particularly well equipped to analyze multinational enterprise (MNE) regional strategies, thanks to its joint transaction cost economics and resource‐based foundations.Design/methodology/approach – This paper builds on recent work by Wolf, Egelhoff, and Dunemann to show that internalization theory's predictions on MNE regional strategy are superior to those suggested by several other conceptual frameworks. For each of the 11 hypotheses formulated by Wolf and his co‐authors, an alternative is proposed here that is consistent with internalization theory predictions.Findings – MNE regional strategy is an important empirical phenomenon. Internalization theory, as a powerful conceptual framework with general applicability, simplicity and accuracy, allows in‐depth analysis of MNE regional strategies.Research limitations/implications – Internalization theory scholars need to find new ways of operationali.
Hardcore Drinking Drivers and Other Contributors to the Alcohol-Impaired Driving Problem: Need For a Comprehensive Approach

Objective. Understanding the hardcore drinking driver concept in the context of the alcohol-impaired driving problem. Method. Review of the relevant literature. Results. As progress against alcohol-impaired driving slowed in the early 1990s, public and political attention turned to “hardcore” drinking drivers, and they have been a priority for the past 15 years. Though intuitive, the hardcore concept has been difficult to conceptualize. Its definition of hard-to-change chronic heavy drinking drivers focuses on a group that is not easily identifiable and ignores many who account for a large portion of alcohol-impaired driving crashes. These include drivers who drink heavily on occasion and drivers who drink at more moderate levels that elevate crash risk. Emphasis on the hardcore has focused attention on the small proportion of drinking drivers who have been detected and arrested, whereas the vast majority of drinking drivers go undetected. Some countermeasures aimed at the hardcore group have been effective in reducing recidivism, but attention and resources also need to be given to general deterrent initiatives (e.g., 0.08 g/dL, sobriety checkpoints, administrative license suspension). There has been no reduction in the overall alcohol-impaired driving problem since the mid-1990s. Conclusion. Reductions in the alcohol-impaired driving problem require that attention be focused on all relevant target groups. Some benefits could accrue by recognizing that countermeasures developed for hardcore drinking drivers, such as alcohol ignition interlocks and vehicle or plate impoundment, might also be effective with more numerous first-time offenders. However, such strategies are likely to be most effective against recidivism (specific deterrence). Greater gains could be achieved through general deterrent efforts (increasing the real and perceived risk of arrest and punishment to all drinking drivers), along with application of public health measures designed to reduce overall consumption. Additional ways need to be found to separate drinking and driving, either through cultural changes in drinking and/or driving behavior or, in the future, with the use of technology that can make vehicles inoperable by drivers with illegal blood alcohol concentrations.
Potentiation of Antidepressants with Lithium or Carbamazepine in Treatment-Resistant Depression

Fifty-nine patients with treatment-resistant depression were randomly allocated an addition of either lithium (Li; 31 patients) or carbamazepine (CBZ; 28 patients) to ongoing antidepressant treatment. The therapeutic efficacy of both strategies, assessed after 28 days, was not significantly different. In the Li group, clinical improvement significantly correlated with decrease in thyroxine concentration. Also, a decrease in cortisol level in Li responders and an increase in nonresponders was observed, suggesting a regulatory effect of Li on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity. CBZ responders had lower baseline severity of depression than CBZ nonresponders and clinical improvement significantly correlated with increase in erythrocyte ATPase activity in the CBZ group.
Honor Among Thieves: The Interaction of Team and Member Deviance on Trust in the Team

In this article, we examine member trust in deviant teams. We contend that a member’s trust in his or her deviant team depends on the member’s own deviant actions; although all members will judge the actions of their deviant teams as rational evidence that they should not be trusted, deviant members, but not honest members, can hold on to trust in their teams because of a sense of connection to the team. We tested our predictions in a field study of 562 members across 111 teams and 24 organizations as well as in an experiment of 178 participants in deviant and non-deviant teams. Both studies show that honest members experience a greater decline in trust as team deviance goes up. Moreover, our experiment finds that deviant members have as much trust in their deviant teams as honest members do in honest teams, but only in teams with coordinated rather than independent acts of deviance, in which deviant members engage in a variety of ongoing dynamics foundational to a sense of connection and affective-based trust.
Age-period-cohort decomposition of aggregate data: an application to US and Japanese household saving rates

This paper compares two methods of analyzing aggregate data that is classified by period and age. Because there is a linear relationship among age, period, and cohort, it is not possible to distinguish the separate effects without employing an identifying assumption. The first method, which is applied in the economics literature, assumes that period effects are orthogonal to a linear time trend. The second method, which is applied in the statistics literature, assumes that the effect parameters change gradually. Simulation results suggest that the performances of both methods are comparable. The results of applying the second method to household saving rates suggest that period effects had a negligible influence in the United States but considerable influence in Japan. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wealth Creation and Poverty Alleviation in Nigeria: The Role of Information Technology (IT)

The study investigated the Role of Information Technology (IT) in the creation of wealth and poverty alleviation in Nigeria. The design of the study was a descriptive survey, carried out at Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe in Anambra State of Nigeria. One hundred and ninety three (193) respondents formed the sample population. Questionnaire was used for the collection of data. Mean standard deviation and analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 0.05 level of significance was used for data analysis. The findings revealed that Information Technology (IT) is very imperative in the creation of wealth and poverty reduction in Nigeria. Recommendations were also made which include provision of capacity building, solar power and creation of awareness among the communities on the use of Information Technology (IT), etc.
How Much Does Expertise Reduce Behavioral Biases? The Case of Anchoring Effects in Stock Return Estimates

"We use data from surveys involving 300 Scandinavian financial market professionals and 213 university students to conduct three controlled experiments in which we manipulate the background information given to subjects. We find a very large anchoring effect in the students' long-term stock return expectations, that is, their estimates are influenced by an initial starting value. Professionals show a much smaller anchoring effect, but it nevertheless remains statistically and economically significant, even when we restrict the sample to more experienced professionals. We also find that the professionals are not conscious of the impact of historical returns on their expectations. " Copyright (c) 2008 Financial Management Association International.
Sectoral Knowledge Production in Swedish Regions 1993-1999

This paper attempts to explain knowledge production in Swedish functional regions as measured by the number of patent applications. Recognizing that technological opportunity differs across sectors, a sectoral analysis is conducted. The Knowledge Production Function (KPF) approach is applied in order to relate patent applications to a number of relevant knowledge sources. The empirical analysis makes use of an aggregate KPF for each sector and region. In the interpretation of the results, the recent critique of KPF approaches is recognized. The stock of patent applications is included as an explanatory variable in the analysis. The results show that the patent stock of a region contains much of the information needed in order to explain current patenting activity. This is interpreted as suggesting strong effects of path dependence.
Attributes of excellence in work-related assessments.

UNLABELLED In order for clinicians to select and conduct work-related assessments that demonstrate 'best practice', it is necessary to identify assessments that are considered 'excellent'. OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to determine (1) the attributes associated with excellence for each of 3 types of work-related assessment (WPAs, FCEJs & FCENJs), and (2) the differences between the attributes associated with each type of work-related assessment. STUDY DESIGN A questionnaire was sent to all accredited occupational or vocational rehabilitation providers in Australia, targeting occupational therapists and physiotherapists who conducted work-related assessments. The response rate was 25.3%, and 132 questionnaires were analysed. RESULTS A MANOVA revealed that the perceived importance of 18 attributes was different between the 3 forms of work-related assessment F36, 364=6.54; p<0.001). There was a core of 7 attributes that showed no difference between assessments (accurate, comprehensive, credible, flexible, practical, safe and useful). Two attributes (generalisable and specific) were different for all 3 forms of assessment. A large group of attributes (consistent, measurable, objective, reliable, reproducible, standardised, structured and valid) demonstrated significant differences between WPAs and both forms of FCE. Relevant demonstrated significant differences between FCENJs and both WPAs and FCEJs. Reliability analysis revealed 2 constructs (dependability and utility). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that there were significant differences between 3 forms of work-related assessments (WPAs, FCEJs & FCENJs) in terms of the attributes considered necessary for excellence for each form of assessment. The attributes were considered to relate to either qualitative or quantitative features of assessment. These features were reflected in the constructs utility, which was comprised of qualitative attributes and associated with broad concepts of validity, and dependability, which was comprised of quantitative attributes and reflected concepts of reliability. There appeared to be a continuum of work-related assessment that ranged from WPAs demonstrating the most qualitative attributes to FCENJs demonstrating the most quantitative features.
The Illusion of No Control: Management Control Systems Facilitating Autonomous Motivation in University Research

Autonomous motivation, a fundamental factor influencing research success, can be undermined when people feel pressured, managed or controlled. So how do universities – which are under increasing external pressure to manage research activities to produce outcomes – exert management control without threatening the autonomous motivation of their researchers? We address this question through an exploratory case study of the management control systems used in two university faculties. Our results confirm the importance of autonomous motivation in driving researchers’ activity and show how incentives, performance evaluation and cultural–administrative structures can be designed to not only preserve, but also enhance and leverage this motivation.
Protest events in international press coverage: An empirical critique of cross-national conflict databases

The empirical analysis of protest events and other expressions of social conflict is one of the core tasks of the discipline of comparative sociology. The numerous international data sets and empirical country comparisons that rely exclusively on reporting in English-language newspapers such as The New York Times in surveying protest events nevertheless suffer from considerable distortions. Using the example of some 1800 protest events in Argentina, Mexico and Paraguay in the year 2006, the present study shows that there are remarkable differences between national and international (English-language) newspapers when it comes to frequency of reporting. On the one hand, a mere 5.3 percent of all protest events that are reported nationally also attract the attention of the international press. On the other hand, the percentage of international reporting depends considerably and to a statistically significant extent on the country in which the protest takes place. Besides, these country differences persist when additional protest characteristics (e.g. the number of participants, the participation of renowned personalities and the escalation of the protest into rioting) are controlled by means of multivariate logistic regressions. The measurement error that results when surveying protest events on the strength of coverage in the English-language international press is therefore not constant across countries. The frequently used data sets like the World Handbook of Political and Social Indicators or the Cross-National Time Series Data Archive launched by Arthur Banks are thus proving to be highly questionable sources for international comparisons in protest and conflict research.
Modeling the impact of prepregnancy BMI, physical activity, and energy intake on gestational weight gain, infant birth weight, and postpartum weight retention.

BACKGROUND A "fit pregnancy" requires balancing energy expenditure with energy intake (EI) to achieve appropriate gestational weight gains (GWG), healthy infant birth weights (IBW), and minimal postpartum weight retention (PPWR). Our objective was to develop an integrated conceptual framework to assess the contribution of prepregnancy weight (PP-BMI), EI, and physical activity (PA) as determinants of GWG, IBW, and PPWR. METHODS Pregnant women (n = 59) were recruited from prenatal classes. Energy intake was estimated using 3 24-hr diet recalls and PA using a validated PA questionnaire and a pedometer. Telephone interviews at 6-weeks postpartum assessed self-reported GWG, IBW, and PPWR. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to explore the potential predictors of GWG, IBW, and PPWR. RESULTS Prepregnancy BMI was associated with GWG, and EI was associated with IBW; each model captured only 6%-18% of the variability. In contrast, PPWR was predicted by PP-BMI, GWG, and EI, which together explained 61% of its variability, whereas GWG alone explained 51% of the variability in PPWR. CONCLUSIONS Modeling the relationship using hierarchical models suggests that PP-BMI, prepartum PA, and EI differentially impact GWG, IBW, and PPWR.