cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Transcriptional Response of the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin β-Subunit Gene to cAMP is Cycloheximide Sensitive and is Mediated by cis-Acting Sequences Different from that Found in the α-Subunit Gene

Cyclic AMP stimulates transcription of the genes encoding the α-and β-subunits of human CG (hCG). Although the cis-acting cAMP response element (CRE) of the α-subunit gene has been extensively characterized, relatively little is known about the putative response element of the hCGβ gene. Here, we demonstrate that cAMP stimulation of hCGβ gene transcription requires ongoing protein synthesis, whereas cAMP stimulation of α-subunit gene transcription does not. These results suggest that cAMP-stimulated transcription of the α and hCGβ genes may involve different cis-acting elements and trans-acting factors. Accordingly, we have constructed a series of deletion mutants consisting of fragments of the hCGβ promoter-regulatory region linked to the bacterial chloramphenicol acetyl transferase gene. To potentiate detection of a CRE, we constructed vectors containing the Rous sarcoma virus enhancer to augment transcriptional activity of the hCGβ-promoter. We also used vectors designed to determine whether regions co...
Deconstructing a Complex Molecular Phenotype: Population-Level Variation in Individual Venom Proteins in Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes (Sistrurus c. catenatus)

Identifying the molecular basis for complex adaptations such as the toxic proteins used by venomous snakes to subdue and digest prey is an important step in understanding the evolutionary and functional basis for such traits. Recent proteomics-based analyses have made possible the identification of all constituent proteins in whole venom samples. Here we exploit this advance to study patterns of population-level variation in venom proteins from 254 adult eastern massasauga rattlesnakes (Sistrurus c. catenatus) collected from 10 populations. Analysis of presence–absence variation in specific proteins from 1D PAGE gels shows that: (1) The frequency spectra for individual protein bands is U-shaped with a large number of specific proteins either being consistently “common” or “rare” across populations possibly reflecting functional differences. (2) Multivariate axes which summarize whole venom variation consist of bands from all major types of proteins implying the integration of functionally distinct components within the overall venom phenotype. (3) There is significant differentiation in venom proteins across populations and the specific classes of proteins contributing to this differentiation have been identified. (4) Levels of population differentiation in venom proteins are not correlated with levels of neutral genetic differentiation, or genetically effective population sizes which argues that patterns of venom variation are not simply a consequence of population structure but leaves open the role of selection in generating population differences in venom. Our results identify particular classes of venom proteins and their associated genes as being fruitful targets for future studies of the molecular and functional basis for this complex adaptive phenotype.
Entrepreneurship and Marketing Strategy: The SME under Globalization:

Abstract Globalization and the emergence of internationally active small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are key worldwide trends. The author investigates the interrelationships of entrepreneurial orientation, marketing strategy, tactics, and firm performance among SMEs affected by globalization. The author offers empirical findings and conclusions on the critical roles of entrepreneurship and marketing to assist SME managers.
Suppression and recovery of neuronal function in transient cerebral ischemia

Summary Transient cerebral ischemia was produced in anesthetized cats by interrupting the arterial blood supply to the brain under direct observation of the pial circulation. Ischemia of more than 6 min duration was followed by an impaired pial blood flow which became visible after 20–60 min. Cerebrovascular perfusion with 6% dextran, calf serum or Ringer's solution during ischemia prevented this complication of the postischemic blood flow. The functional status of neuronal activity during and after ischemia was assessed by recording the EEG and the pyramidal response (PR) after electrical stimulation of the sensorimotor cortex. There was no difference in the suppression times of the EEG (20 ± 5sec) or the PR (I wave, 4 ± 2min; D wave, 6 ± 2min) between cats subjected to complete ischemia with or without cerebrovascular perfusion. However, considerable differences were recorded after the period of transient ischemia. The D wave of the PR recovered only in some of the non-perfused animals (within 40 min after ischemia of less than 16 min duration) and, when ischemia lasted more than 8 min, the recovery process was interrupted and reversed. This secondary suppression coincided with the onset of the impaired postischemic circulation. In the perfused animals, the D wave consistently recovered within 10 min after ischemia lasting as long as 30 min, and no secondary suppression was recorded.
PIN pointing the motivational dimensions behind Pinterest

This study examined the user gratifications obtained from Pinterest, an image-sharing social networking site, by applying the traditional mixed-method approach of the uses and gratifications framework (U&G). In the first phase of the study, using a qualitative questionnaire, a preliminary list of descriptive terms was collected from 27 college students who use Pinterest. From the list, an item analysis extracted 54 descriptive terms, which served as the basis for the item generation in the second phase of the study. In the second phase, using a quantitative online survey method, data was analyzed from 243 college students who use Pinterest. A confirmatory factor analysis revealed five dimensions of uses and gratifications obtained from the image-sharing SNS: 'fashion', 'creative projects', 'entertainment', 'virtual exploration', and 'organization'. Furthermore, the results propose new measures for the uses and gratifications of Pinterest.
Synthesis and characterization of a Mn22 single-molecule magnet and a [Mn22]n single-chain magnet.

The reactions of [Mn12O12(O2CEt)16(H2O)4] with phenylphosphinic acid (PhHPO2H) in MeCN and MeCN/CH2Cl2 have led to isolation of [Mn22O12(O2CEt)22(O3PPh)8(H2O)8] (2) and [Mn22O12(O2CEt)20(O3PPh)8(O2PPhH)2(H2O)8]n (3), respectively, both containing PhPO32- groups from in situ oxidation of PhHPO2-. Complex 2 is molecular and consists of two Mn9 subunits linked by four additional Mn atoms. Complex 3 contains almost identical Mn22 units as 2, but they are linked into a one-dimensional chain structure. The Mn22 unit in both compounds is mixed-valence MnIII18, MnII4. Solid-state, variable-temperature dc magnetic susceptibility and magnetization measurements were performed on vacuum-dried samples of 2 and 3, indicating dominant antiferromagnetic interactions. A good fit of low-temperature magnetization data for 2 could not be obtained because of problems associated with low-lying excited states, as expected for a high nuclearity complex containing MnII atoms. An approximate fit using only data collected in small ...
Cellular Respiration during Hypoxia ROLE OF CYTOCHROME OXIDASE AS THE OXYGEN SENSOR IN HEPATOCYTES

Abstract We previously reported that hepatocytes exhibit a reversible suppression of respiration during prolonged hypoxia (PO2 = 20 torr for 3–5 h). Also, isolated bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase undergoes a reversible decrease in apparent V max when incubated under similar conditions. This study sought to link the hypoxia-induced changes in cytochrome oxidase to the inhibition of respiration seen in intact cells. Hepatocytes incubated at PO2 = 20 torr exhibited decreases in respiration and increases in [NAD(P)H] after 2–3 h that were reversed upon reoxygenation (PO2 = 100 torr). Respiration during hypoxia was also inhibited whenN,N,N′,N′-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine (0.5 mm) and ascorbate (5 mm) were used to reduce cytochrome c, suggesting that cytochrome oxidase was partially inhibited. Similarly, liver submitochondrial particles revealed a 44% decrease in the apparent V maxof cytochrome oxidase after hypoxic incubation. In hepatocytes loaded with tetramethylrhodamine ethyl ester (10 nm) to quantify mitochondrial membrane potential, acute hypoxia (<30 min) produced no change in fluorescence, consistent with the absence of an acute change in respiration. However, fluorescence increased during acute reoxygenation after prolonged hypoxia, suggesting an increase in potential. The control exhibited by NADH over mitochondrial respiration was not altered during hypoxia. Thus, changes in theV max of cytochrome oxidase during prolonged hypoxia correlate with the changes in respiration and mitochondrial potential. This suggests that the oxidase functions as an oxygen sensor in the intact hepatocyte.
A framework for hierarchical interactive generation of cellular layout

This paper proposes a flow-network-oriented approach that hierarchically addresses the problem of cellular layout design. It consists of three major phases: (1) Utilize the K-Shortest Path method to rationalize the various flows of a system into a master flow network; (2) Based on this flow network, plan a flow pattern and designate the aisle structure for the system; (3) Locate and allocate cells around the flow pattern and the aisle structure within a restricted floor plan. These three phases compose an integrated interactive layout design process. The applicability of this approach as well as its effectiveness is illustrated by case studies.
Specific neutralizing antibodies in Epstein-Barr virus associated diseases.

The results of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) neutralization tests on 650 sera from patients with EBV-associated diseases and controls were compared with the titers of antibodies to EB viral capsid antigens (anti-VCA) and to EBV-induced early antigens (anti-EA). All anti-VCA negative sera failed to neutralize EBV. Among 546 anti-VCA positive sera, only eight yielded negative results in neutralization tests. Four of these came from patients in the early acute phase of infectious mononucleosis who subsequently developed neutralizing antibodies. The ratios between neutralizing and anti-VCA titers varied over a wide range indicating that different antibodies are involved in the two tests. In line with the regular presence of mostly elevated anti-VCA titers, the geometric mean neutralizing titers in Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma were also higher (5- to 7-fold) than in appropriate controls. In Hodgkin's disease, an over-representation of high neutralizing as well as anti-VCA titers was noted, although some patients had neither of these antibodies. All patients with infectious mononucleosis developed neutralizing antibodies with a geometric mean ultimately matching that of controls whereas in the early acute phase it was lower than in the controls. In contrast, the geometric mean anti-VCA titer in the early acute phase was higher than in controls and then declined in convalescence toward the control value. There was no evident relationship between neutralizing and anti-EA activities whether directed against the D or the R component of the EA complex.
Separate groups of dorsal horn neurons transmit spontaneous activity and mechanosensitivity one day after plantar incision.

Abstract Dorsal horn neuron (DHN) sensitization can be induced and maintained by nociceptor activation. In previous studies, only a small increase in ongoing DHN activity was present immediately after plantar incision; yet, powerful activation of nociceptors was prominent 1 day after incision. In the present study, rats underwent plantar incision or sham surgery as control. One day later pain behaviors were measured; then DHN activity and response properties to mechanical stimulation were recorded in vivo. In some neurons with spontaneous activity, the incision was anesthetised using bupivacaine. Spontaneous activity was identified in 9 of 27 neurons in the control group and in 16 of 26 neurons (P
Economic Determinants of Political Unrest: An Econometric Approach

Some degree of political unrest and thus potential for violence exists in all societies at all times. In recent years, the causes of political unrest are attributed to one or more sociopsychological traits or geopolitical factors. Economic explanations are absent or lack modern quantitative approach. This study is an attempt to test some of the old and new theories of political unrest, and to extend, modify, and synthetize others in a unified theoretical framework. Thus, etiologically, universal economic factors in contrast to noneconomic, particular, or local factors are considered and methodologically a multifactor analysis is adopted. Theoretically, neither exclusivity nor primacy of economic factors is assumed; however, empirical results demonstrate their importance as main explanatory variables of political violence. In contrast to general belief, it is shown that political unrest is not a monotonically explained variable for the entire range of explanatory factors such as relative deprivation. Thus,...
Comparison of spatial interpolation methods for estimating snow distribution in the Colorado Rocky Mountains

Our understanding of snow distribution in the mountains is limited as a result of the complex controls leading to extreme spatial variability. More accurate representations of snow distribution are greatly needed for improvements to hydrological forecasts, climate models, and for the future testing and validation of remote-sensing retrieval algorithms. In this study, the relative performances of four spatial interpolation methods were evaluated to estimate snow water equivalent for three 1 km2 study sites in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Each study site is representative of different topographic and vegetative characteristics. From 1 to 11 April 2001, 550 snow depth measurements and approximately 16 snow density profiles were obtained within each study site. The analytical methods used to estimate snow depth over the 1 km2 areas were (1) inverse distance weighting, (2) ordinary kriging, (3) modified residual kriging and cokriging, and (4) a combined method using binary regression trees and geostatistical methods. The independent variables used were elevation, slope, aspect, net solar radiation, and vegetation. Using cross-validation procedures, each method was assessed for accuracy. The tree-based models provided the most accurate estimates for all study sites, explaining 18–30% of the observed variability in snow depth. Kriging of the regression tree residuals did not substantially improve the models. Cokriging of the residuals resulted in a less accurate model when compared with the tree-based models alone. Binary regression trees may have generated the most accurate estimates out of all methods evaluated; however, substantial portions of the variability in observed snow depth were left unexplained by the models. Though the data may have simply lacked spatial structure, it is recommended that the characteristics of the study sites, sampling strategy, and independent variables be explored further to evaluate the causes for the relatively poor model results. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SU(5) Theories with Both Proton Stability and Cosmological Baryon-Number Generation

It is shown how the addition of a global $\mathrm{U}{(1)}_{c}$ of color to the conventional SU(5) model leads to a stable proton despite the nonconservation of baryon number. A stable, massive, neutral lepton is also predicted. The possibility that emerges of having relatively light mass ($M\ensuremath{\gtrsim}{M}_{W}$) color-triplet Higgs mesons modifies the gauge hierarchy problem and leads to cosmological baryon-number generation at low temperatures ($\mathrm{kT}\ensuremath{\approx}100$ GeV).
Mating Behavior Induced in Hypophysectomized Female Rats by Injected Estrogen.

Five hypophysectomized female rats were given subcutaneous injections of 250 I.U. Progynon-B Schering† (estradiol benzoate) on 5 successive days beginning one week after operation. All of them accepted vigorously aggressive males after a latent period of 2 to 3 days. This is only a low degree of sexual excitability1 but no higher degrees have been elicited in this laboratory with estrogen alone in castrated females of this strain of rats.2Examination of the sella with a binocular microscope revealed no residual tissue fragments in 3 of these animals. In one of the others there was a little unidentified material in this space and in the fifth animal a remnant of the pituitary gland judged to be posterior lobe was found. The records of the 2 latter were discarded.In at least 3 of these rats, then, heat behavior had been induced in the absence of anterior lobe tissue. These positive cases render untenable the hypothesis that estrogens may produce heat behavior only indirectly by their effect on the pituitary...
Frameshift deletion by Sulfolobus solfataricus P2 DNA polymerase Dpo4 T239W is selective for purines and involves normal conformational change followed by slow phosphodiester bond formation.

The human DNA polymerase κ homolog Sulfolobus solfataricus DNA polymerase IV (Dpo4) produces “−1” frameshift deletions while copying unmodified DNA and, more frequently, when bypassing DNA adducts. As judged by steady-state kinetics and mass spectrometry, bypass of purine template bases to produce these deletions occurred rarely but with 10-fold higher frequency than with pyrimidines. The DNA adduct 1,N2-etheno-2′-deoxyguanosine, with a larger stacking surface than canonical purines, showed the highest frequency of formation of −1 frameshift deletions. Dpo4 T239W, a mutant we had previously shown to produce fluorescence changes attributed to conformational change following dNTP binding opposite cognate bases (Beckman, J. W., Wang, Q., and Guengerich, F. P. (2008) J. Biol. Chem. 283, 36711–36723), reported similar conformational changes when the incoming dNTP complemented the base following a templating purine base or bulky adduct (i.e. the “+1” base). However, in all mispairing cases, phosphodiester bond formation was inefficient. The frequency of −1 frameshift events and the associated conformational changes were not dependent on the context of the remainder of the sequence. Collectively, our results support a mechanism for −1 frameshift deletions by Dpo4 that involves formation of active complexes via a favorable conformational change that skips the templating base, without causing slippage or flipping out of the base, to incorporate a complementary residue opposite the +1 base, in a mechanism previously termed “dNTP-stabilized incorporation.” The driving force is attributed to be the stacking potential between the templating base and the incoming dNTP base.
Aluminium accumulation in Pteris cretica and trace element uptake in vegetation growing on an abandoned aluminium smelter site in Knoxville, TN, USA

Smokey Mountain Smelters in Knoxville, Tennessee USA is an abandoned aluminium smelter where smelter waste (slag) was dumped on site. ICP analyses indicated the highest slag metal concentrations were 223,000 mg kg−1 Al, 281 mg kg−1 As, 132 mg kg−1 Se, and 2910 mg kg−1 Cu. Metal uptake was quantified in plants growing on slag. Our data indicates that P. cretica accumulates Al in high concentrations, but not As, when grown in slag. Metal concentrations in vegetation grown on slag were lower than controls grown in uncontaminated soil, suggesting low metal availability or root exclusion mechanisms.
Reward circuit function in high BMI individuals with compulsive overeating: Similarities with addiction

Abstract Context The rising rate of overweight and obese individuals among developing countries despite focused efforts on prevention and treatment underscores not only the need to better define the physiological factors that contribute to weight problems, but also the need to elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms of the self-regulatory failure over eating that leads to weight problems. Emergent findings suggest an overlapping model of addiction and compulsive overeating. Objective Our goal was to examine whether neural hyper-responsivity to reward typically associated with substance abuse could also be seen in individuals exhibiting binge-eating behavior. Design Participants completed self-assessments of demographic information and eating behavior. Neurofunctional data were collected via functional MRI (fMRI) scans while participants were exposed to personally relevant high-calorie cues. Setting The participants were recruited from the general community. Participants Twenty‐six individuals with high body mass index (BMI) > 25 and moderate binge‐eating behavior as assessed by the Binge Eating Scale (BES) were recruited for this study. Main Outcome Measures fMRI BOLD response during exposure to high-calorie taste cues. Results The results showed that exposure to high-calorie taste cues elicited fMRI BOLD response in the reward system of individuals with high BMI, and, more importantly, that this hyper-responsivity increases with greater number of binge‐eating symptoms (cluster-corrected p z = 1.9). Conclusions These findings support an overlapping neural model of addiction and self-regulatory failure over eating that may lead to problems with weight in humans. These findings offer insight into the prevention and treatment of disordered eating.
Mexican-American Mothers' Socialization Strategies: Effects of Education, Acculturation, and Health Locus of Control.

Abstract The present study examined maternal education, acculturation, and health locus of control beliefs in relation to parenting strategies that promote the internalization of healthy eating habits in Mexican-American children. Eighty low-income Mexican-American mothers and their 4- to 8-year-old children participated in the study. Mother-child interactions during dinner were observed, and mothers were interviewed about the socialization strategies they used to influence their children′s food consumption. Results indicated that mothers with more external health locus of control beliefs were less likely to use socialization techniques associated with internalization. Acculturation was negatively related to the use of internalization techniques, with less traditional mothers using more directive strategies. Education did not predict maternal behavior after controlling for health locus of control beliefs.
The Logic of Signaling from the Cell Surface to the Nucleus

Abstract The apparent imprecisions in the signal transduction mechanisms that couple specific hormone receptors to predictable nuclear transcription events have raised many issues for both biology and medicine. In this article, a fuzzy logic model is proposed to provide a means of formally describing signal transduction systems and making predictions about the effects of various combinations of inputs. The fuzzy logic model may provide opportunities mathematically to describe regulatory ensembles that are too complex to describe by conventional models. In addition, the nature of "fuzzy variables" provides insight into the paradoxes that underlie both imprecision and predictability in signal transduction. (Trends Endocrinol Metab 1997;8:123–129). © 1997, Elsevier Science Inc.
A new substrate for the rapid evaluation of enteric microbial overgrowth

The possibility of a new approach to diagnosis of intestinal bacterial overgrowth has been evaluated in laboratory animals. The diagnostic test involves oral administration of an enzyme-labile substrate consisting ofpara-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) conjugated to a bile acid. In the presence of enteric bacteria, PABA is split from the bile acid and is rapidly absorbed and excreted in the urine. The amount of PABA recovered during the 6 hr following the administered dose of the conjugate may be used as an index of bacterial overgrowth in the upper-gastrointestinal tract. The procedure has been shown to be a reliable index of this condition in laboratory animal models.
Bubble mobility in mud and magmatic volcanoes

The rheology of particle-laden fluids with a yield stress, such as mud or crystal-rich magmas, controls the mobility of bubbles, both the size needed to overcome the yield stress and their rise speed. We experimentally measured the velocities of bubbles and rigid spheres in mud sampled from the Davis-Schrimpf mud volcanoes adjacent to the Salton Sea, Southern California. Combined with previous measurements in the polymer gel Carbopol, we obtained an empirical model for the drag coefficient and bounded the conditions under which bubbles overcome the yield stress. Yield stresses typical of mud and basaltic magmas with sub-mm particles can immobilize millimeter to centimeter sized bubbles. At Stromboli volcano, Italy, a vertical yield stress gradient in the shallow conduit may immobilize bubbles with diameter
Microplate assay of glutathione s-transferase activity for resistance detection in single-mosquito triturates

Abstract 1. 1. Optimum conditions are described for a simple, rapid microplate assay that measures glutathion s-transferase (GST) activity accurately and precisely in small portions of single mosquito homogenates. 2. 2. Up to 10 assay replicates were possible for individual adults and larvae. Concentration of GST activity in the head/thorax region allows blood-fed mosquitoes with abdomens removed to be used in assays. 3. 3. The method allows the use of GST activity as a biochemical character in comparative studies of populations. 4. 4. The microplate assay detects elevated GST activities associated with DDT resistance in Anopheles arabiensis.
The Changing Role of Tenure at the American Research University

Although American research universities have long hired faculty members both on the tenure track and on fixed-term contracts, the nature of the workforce has changed rapidly in recent years. Today fixed-term faculty members have become the majority or will soon become the majority at almost all research universities. This has resulted in a two-tiered system of employment in which tenure-track faculty members have taken on the role of frontline manager and entrepreneur, whereas fixed-term faculty members have become members of a permanent, highly skilled workforce with limited upward mobility. There are several things universities can do to adjust to this transition, including training tenure-track faculty members in basic principles of management, offering defined career tracks to fixed-term faculty members, and changing the nature of graduate education to reflect this workforce reality.
The singlet lines of Cl IV

Ten singlet and intercombination lines of Cl IV have been classified and the singlet terms of the ground configuration located. Forbidden transitions between the terms of the ground configurations of Cl IV, Cl III and probably S III are not observed in nebulae or novae.
The practice of pediatric cardiology in an evolving health care system

Abstract Changes in our health care system proceed regardless of federal legislative activity. A significant component of reform affects specialty, high technology in-hospital care such as pediatric cardiology by attempting to focus on changing the emphasis toward a primary, outpatient model. This paper reviews some of the evolutionary events and processes affecting our health care delivery system. These events include: expanding high technology medicine; forces influencing regionalization of specialty care such as expansion of academic health centers; reimbursement sources and medical liability; and increasing control by major purchases of health care. Finally we review how the pediatric cardiologist and the practice of this specialty may evolve as a result of these events.
GABA and picrotoxinin receptors in clonal nerve cells

γAminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter which seems to mediate inhibitory synaptic transmission in many regions of the central nervous system (CNS) of vertebrates and invertebrates1. GABA has been shown to act by increasing membrane chloride permeability in invertebrate muscle2,3, and a similar mechanism has been suggested for the vertebrate CNS4. The response to GABA is inhibited noncompetitively by the convulsant picrotoxinin1–5. Binding sites for radioactive GAB A6–8 and picrotoxinin9–11 (the active component of picrotoxin) have been described in homogenates of invertebrate muscle and mammalian CNS; these binding sites show many properties expected of postsynaptic membrane macromolecules involved in the receptor-ionophore function of GABA. Nevertheless, unambiguous correlation between biochemical assays and in vivo function is difficult to obtain, especially in heterogeneous tissue such as mammalian CNS. One approach to this problem involves cloned cell lines of neuronal origin which retain in culture the differentiated function to be studied (see, for example, ref. 12). Certain cell lines cloned from rat13 and mouse14 nervous system possess neuronal properties such as electrical excitability, neurotransmitter synthetic enzymes12, neurotransmitter uptake15,16, binding of defined ligands to their appropriate neurotransmitter receptors12,17,18, and receptor-coupled responses to neurotransmitters17,19,20. Several cell lines of apparent glial origin have also been described13,21,22. To determine whether binding sites for GABA and picrotoxinin are localised to nerve cells, a variety of clonal cell lines were assayed for their ability to bind those ligands. We report here the presence of GABA and picrotoxinin binding sites with receptor-like properties in several clonal nerve cell lines obtained from the rat CNS, and the absence of such binding sites in many other cell lines of non-neuronal origin.
Operational risk assessment of chemical industries by exploiting accident databases

Abstract Accident databases (NRC, RMP, and others) contain records of incidents (e.g., releases and spills) that have occurred in the USA chemical plants during recent years. For various chemical industries, [Kleindorfer, P. R., Belke, J. C., Elliott, M. R., Lee, K., Lowe, R. A., & Feldman, H. I. (2003). Accident epidemiology and the US chemical industry: Accident history and worst-case data from RMP*Info . Risk Analysis , 23 (5), 865–881.] summarize the accident frequencies and severities in the RMP*Info database. Also, [Anand, S., Keren, N., Tretter, M. J., Wang, Y., O’Connor, T. M., & Mannan, M. S. (2006). Harnessing data mining to explore incident databases . Journal of Hazardous Material , 130 , 33–41.] use data mining to analyze the NRC database for Harris County, Texas. Classical statistical approaches are ineffective for low frequency, high consequence events because of their rarity. Given this information limitation, this paper uses Bayesian theory to forecast incident frequencies, their relevant causes, equipment involved, and their consequences, in specific chemical plants. Systematic analyses of the databases also help to avoid future accidents, thereby reducing the risk. More specifically, this paper presents dynamic analyses of incidents in the NRC database. The NRC database is exploited to model the rate of occurrence of incidents in various chemical and petrochemical companies using Bayesian theory. Probability density distributions are formulated for their causes (e.g., equipment failures, operator errors, etc.), and associated equipment items utilized within a particular industry. Bayesian techniques provide posterior estimates of the cause and equipment-failure probabilities. Cross-validation techniques are used for checking the modeling, validation, and prediction accuracies. Differences in the plant- and chemical-specific predictions with the overall predictions are demonstrated. Furthermore, extreme value theory is used for consequence modeling of rare events by formulating distributions for events over a threshold value. Finally, the fast-Fourier transform is used to estimate the capital at risk within an industry utilizing the frequency and loss-severity distributions.
Cancer treatment planning: formal methods to the rescue

This paper describes the ongoing development of ATTENTION, a new kind of clinical decision support system for synthesizing and managing longitudinal treatment plans, such as cancer treatment plans. ATTENTION combines stateof- the-art formal modeling and constraint solving with clinical information systems to synthesize complex cancer treatment plans that are also executable.
Experiments on viscoplastic response of circular plates to impulsive loading

Abstract Tests are described of circular plates of mild steel and commercially pure titanium loaded impulsively by means of explosive sheet. Three loading geometries were used, with magnitudes such that final deflections in the range from one to about seven plate thicknesses were produced. Clamping against radial as well as transverse deflections at the edge was provided. Both materials exhibit strong plastic rate sensitivity. Parameters describing this behavior were obtained from stress-strain tests at low to intermediate rates together with published data for high strain rates. The measured final deflections and response times are compared with predictions of the mode approximation technique as extended to large deflections of viscoplastic structures.
A profile of the instructional developer in higher education and in business

This article has highlighted some of the isolated differences that were pointed out in the survey between instructional developers in higher education and those in business/industry. However, when viewed holistically, the instructional development process is basically practiced the same in both settings. This may, perhaps, be more easily seen when one studies the responses on the “ideal” scale. Respondents from business/industry believe that they should practice all of the twenty-six (26) ID behaviors, except item 3 (informing the organization of its instructional needs), significantly more often (.05 or beyond) than they practice them now. Respondents from higher education believe that they should practice all twenty-six (26) ID behaviors (without exception) significantly more often (.05 or beyond) than they practice them.
Mechanisms of Air Entrainment in Concrete

Abstract The advent of air-entraining agents is probably one of the most important technological advances in construction in the last century. It has been widely used to improve the freeze–thaw resistance of concrete, and to a lesser extent, the workability of concrete. Despite the overall successful application of air-entraining agents in concrete, problems in field concrete are not uncommon. The ability to consistently obtain target air-void systems in concrete is not trivial, and changes in raw materials, processing, or construction methods may significantly impact air entrainment. To address these potential problems in the field, a sound understanding of the mechanisms of air entrainment is essential. This paper attempts to synthesize available literature and field experience and provide a framework for understanding the fundamental aspects of air entrainment in concrete. Various parameters and influencing factors, such as concrete temperature, the physical and chemical characteristics of constituent materials, and mixing and placing techniques, are discussed.
Identifying network attacks from a social perspective

The Cyber Defense Laboratory at Western Kentucky University has established a multidisciplinary research team in order to gain a better understanding of the motives and methods of hackers. This involves the collaboration of computer scientists, network analysts, sociologists, and anthropologists. Most research along these lines to date has been performed by technical experts and has failed to consider social research and methods. On the other hand, social theorists tend to group network attacks with other forms of terrorism. We believe that network intrusions are sufficiently different from other forms of terrorism to warrant their own study. This research is innovative in both the way it defines network attacks as well as in the fusion of data from diverse fields of research. By bringing the strengths of social and technical research together, a clearer picture of hackers will emerge. This has implications for government and law enforcement as well as network security. A literature review of related research in the social sciences has been completed. Social scientists with experience in the identified sub-fields were brought onto the team and their results will then be integrated into the Cyber Defense Lab's network security testbed. Using proven social research methods, team members will gain an understanding of the motives of hackers, the methods of attack, communication of ideas, learning resources and strategies, and any other aspects that may be revealed. This paper will discuss the results to date of this ongoing project.
Latency to resume calling after disturbance in the field cricket, Teleogryllus oceanicus , corresponds to population-level differences in parasitism risk

A possible parasitoid-evasion behavioral adaptation is examined in male field crickets, Teleogryllus oceanicus, from three Hawaiian islands where parasitoid prevalence varies naturally among islands. Ormia ochracea, the parasitoid fly that parasitizes T. oceanicus on these islands, uses male calling song to locate its hosts. We used laboratory-reared males from three Hawaiian islands to determine if there are population differences in the time it takes for calling males to resume calling after a standardized disturbance. Males follow the expected pattern; males from the island with the greatest risk of parasitism have the longest latency to resume calling, and males from the island with the least risk of parasitism have the shortest latency to resume calling. Results are discussed in the context of behavioral adaptations to differing parasitism levels, and trade-offs between natural and sexual selection.
Interleukin 17–producing CD4 + effector T cells develop via a lineage distinct from the T helper type 1 and 2 lineages

CD4(+) T cells producing interleukin 17 (IL-17) are associated with autoimmunity, although the precise mechanisms that control their development are undefined. Here we present data that challenge the idea of a shared developmental pathway with T helper type 1 (T(H)1) or T(H)2 lineages and instead favor the idea of a distinct effector lineage we call 'T(H)-17'. The development of T(H)-17 cells from naive precursor cells was potently inhibited by interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and IL-4, whereas committed T(H)-17 cells were resistant to suppression by T(H)1 or T(H)2 cytokines. In the absence of IFN-gamma and IL-4, IL-23 induced naive precursor cells to differentiate into T(H)-17 cells independently of the transcription factors STAT1, T-bet, STAT4 and STAT6. These findings provide a basis for understanding how inhibition of IFN-gamma signaling enhances development of pathogenic T(H)-17 effector cells that can exacerbate autoimmunity.
Robust wide range of supply-voltage operation using continuous adaptive size-ratio gates

In this paper, we present an adaptive circuit design that is capable of increasing the effective size-ratio of combinational logic gates to extend the balanced operation in the subthreshold region as well as to maintain high performance at the nominal Vdd. We optimize the sizes of the PMOS transistors in the pull-up network for minimum power dissipation and propagation delay over a wide range of supply voltage. In addition to the minimized energy operation, the dynamically adjustable gate size-ratio allows the gate to preserve a symmetric voltage transfer characteristic at both normal supply and subthreshold operation, which translates to maximized noise margins. Simulation results show that up to 70.9% reduction in the energy can be achieved for a ring oscillator, as compared to the fixed size design capable of operating under supply voltage in the range of 75 mV to 1.2 V Our adaptive circuit design presents an efficient solution for minimum energy circuit operation while preserving the high performance capability at the nominal VDD.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation by TCDD Reduces Inflammation Associated with Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an inappropriate immune response to commensal gut bacteria. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is well known for its involvement in the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), an environmental contaminant that affects people primarily through the diet. Recently, TCDD was shown to suppress immune responses by generating regulatory T cells (Tregs). We hypothesized that AhR activation dampens inflammation associated with Crohn's disease. To test this hypothesis, we utilized the 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) murine model of colitis. Mice were gavaged with TCDD prior to colitis induction with TNBS. Several parameters were examined including colonic inflammation via histological and flow cytometric analyses. TCDD-treated mice recovered body weight faster and experienced significantly less colonic damage. Reduced levels of interleukin (IL) 6, IL-12, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor-α demonstrated suppression of inflammation in the gut following TCDD exposure. Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)(egfp) mice revealed that TCDD increased the Foxp3+ Treg population in gut immune tissue following TNBS exposure. Collectively, these results suggest that activation of the AhR by TCDD decreases colonic inflammation in a murine model of colitis in part by generating regulatory immune cells. Ultimately, this work may lead to the development of more effective therapeutics for the treatment of Crohn's disease.
Hospital-Level Rates of Fluoroquinolone Use and the Risk of Hospital-Acquired Infection with Ciprofloxacin-Nonsusceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Background In recent years, Pseudomonas aeruginosa has become increasingly resistant to fluoroquinolones, and fluoroquinolone use in the United States has also increased. Our objective was to determine whether higher hospital-level rates of use of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin antimicrobials were predictors that a higher proportion of P. aeruginosa isolates from hospital-acquired infections (hereafter, "hospital-acquired isolates") would be nonsusceptible to ciprofloxacin. Methods We identified all hospital-acquired isolates from 14 hospitals in the Northern California Kaiser Permanente health care delivery system between 1998 and 2003 and determined their susceptibility to ciprofloxacin. For each facility, we determined the number of days of fluoroquinolone use per 1000 patient-days, by calendar quarter. We used a logistic regression model to analyze the data, with susceptibility status as the outcome variable. Hospital-level rates of use of the 3 fluoroquinolones were the predictors of interest; we adjusted for year, for use of nonquinolone antimicrobials, and for patient variables, including the number of days spent in the hospital in the prior year and fluoroquinolone use in the prior year. The model tested whether isolates from those facilities with higher rates of use of antimicrobials were more likely to be nonsusceptible to ciprofloxacin. Results Of 6099 isolates tested, 15% were not susceptible to ciprofloxacin. The nonsusceptibility rate increased from 9% to 20% between 1998 and 2003. Both the overall rate of use at the hospital and prior patient-specific use of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin were found to be independent predictors that a subsequent P. aeruginosa isolate would be nonsusceptible to ciprofloxacin. Conclusions Higher hospital-level rates of use of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin are each associated with an increased proportion of hospital-acquired P. aeruginosa isolates being nonsusceptible to ciprofloxacin.
Passenger Profiling and Screening for Aviation Security in the Presence of Strategic Attackers

Passenger profiling enables the Transportation Security Administration to target costly inspection effort toward passengers that have an incentive to attack. On the other hand, critics point out that attackers may game the profiler by manipulating their attributes and behavior, making the profiler ineffective. We examine how passenger profiling impacts airport security operations when the profiler is vulnerable to gaming by attackers. We consider the no-profiling setup and two profiling setups. In the no-profiling setup, all passengers are sent through a screening device, and those that raise an alarm are physically inspected. In the first profiling setup, all classified attackers are physically inspected and classified normal passengers are sent through a screening device, and those that raise an alarm are physically inspected. In the second profiling setup, every passenger, regardless of the profiler's classification, is sent through a screening device and those that raise an alarm are inspected, but the screening devices are configured differently for classified attackers and classified normal passengers. We find that, regardless of the profiling setup, the optimal profiling setup performs at least as good as the no-profiling setup on key performance measures such as total expected security cost, inspection rate of normal passengers, and attacker detection rate even when the profiler is vulnerable to attackers' gaming. The benefit from profiling increases if the profiler becomes less vulnerable. Although neither profiling setup dominates the other on these performance measures, we find that each setup has different desirable properties.
Vote Buying, Supermajorities, and Flooded Coalitions

In a recent paper, Banks (2000), adopting the framework of our model (Groseclose and Snyder 1996), derives several new and noteworthy results. In addition, he provides a counterexample to our proposition 4. Here we explain the error in our proposition but note that we can correct it easily if we invoke an additional assumption: In equilibrium the winning vote buyer constructs a nonflooded coalition, that is, she does not bribe every member of her coalition. We conclude with a brief discussion of the substantive implications of Banks's proposition 1; we note that it provides additional support for our general claim that minimal winning coalitions should be rare in a vote-buying game.
THE PARTICLE ANALYSIS OF CLAYS BY SEDIMENTATION1

As a result of the analysis of Oden, it is possible to apply the sedimentation method quantitatively to the determination of particle distribution of clays in the dispersed state. An experimental procedure is described by which a number of points on the curve may be determined without the aid of any special apparatus. Sedimentation without the aid of a deflocculating agent gives valuable information as to the condition of the clay. Flocculated clays behave like jellies and the method of particle analysis cannot be applied in this case. Data concerning the usual physical properties are presented and these are found consistent with the results of the sedimentation tests as confirmed by microscope observations. The dispersed and fine grained clays are characterized by high dry strength, and the effect of deflocculating a clay is to increase its dry strength.
Chronic hypoxia induces right heart failure in caveolin-1-/- mice.

Caveolin-1 (Cav-1)−/− mice develop mild pulmonary hypertension as they age. In this study, we sought to determine the effect of chronic hypoxia, an established model of pulmonary hypertension, on y...
A laingian view of the ‘advantage’ of advertisers over consumers

This paper discusses the advantage advertisers may enjoy over consumers in terms of R.D. Laing's Interpersonal Perception Method (Laing, Phillipson & Lee, 1966). It is suggested that the advertiser (A) has an advantage over the consumer (C) to the extent that (1) A operates more efficiently at higher order levels of perspective than does C; (2) A understands C, whereas C misunderstands A; (3) A causes C to feel understood by A; and (4) A realizes that he understands C, whereas C fails to realize that she misunderstands A. The differential orientations and skills of A and C would appear to support these conditions with some frequency.