Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cisplatin-resistant osteosarcoma cells possess cancer stem cell properties in a mouse model

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignancy of the bones, and although advances in chemotherapy and surgery had been achieved in recent years, the long-term survival rate has reached a plateau. The main reason for this is the aggressive malignant potential and poor response of the disease to chemotherapy. However, several studies have found that tumor resistance is associated with cancer stem cells (CSCs). To address this issue, in the present study, osteosarcoma cells were treated with specially designated concentrations of cisplatin (CDDP) in a mouse model. Hematoxylin and eosin staining analyses were performed to assess tissue structure, in vivo passaging and CDDP treatment. Drug resistance genes and well-established stemness genes were detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. A serum-starved sphere formation assay was adopted to evaluate the ability to generate spherical clones and flow cytometry as used to test the expression of the cluster of differentiation 117 and Stro-1 surface markers, known as markers of CSCs. It was found that CDDP could induce an effect of resistance in the osteosarcoma cells, which possessed cancer stem CSC properties, as shown by the elevated expression of CSC marker genes and the higher expression of the cluster of differentiation 117 and Stro-1 surface markers. Moreover, the cells that dissociated from the tumor tissues exhibited an increased ability to form sarcospheres. The results of this study provided a significant correlation between resistance and CSCs, and revealed a clue indicating that osteosarcoma recurrence is likely to be associated with CSCs.
Examining individual factors and during-program performance to understand drug court completion

ABSTRACT This study examined individual factors and during-program data to understand drug court program completion. A total of 534 Kentucky Drug Court (KDC) participants were randomly selected from the larger KDC population (N = 4,881). Logistic regression showed that older age and receiving outpatient referrals were associated with completion. Factors associated with reduced odds of completion were: Non-White race, being married, lower educational level, increasing number of psychological/emotional treatment episodes, increasing number of positive drug tests, receiving incarceration and warrant sanctions, and prior criminal justice involvement. Understanding drug court completion is important to make modifications to better meet participants’ needs.
Strategy without tactics: Policy-agnostic hardware-enhanced control-flow integrity

Control-flow integrity (CFI) is a general defense against codereuse exploits that currently constitute a severe threat against diverse computing platforms. Existing CFI solutions (both in software and hardware) suffer from shortcomings such as (i) inefficiency, (ii) security weaknesses, or (iii) are not scalable. In this paper, we present a generic hardware-enhanced CFI scheme that tackles these problems and allows to enforce diverse CFI policies. Our approach fully supports multi-tasking, shared libraries, prevents various forms of code-reuse attacks, and allows CFI protected code and legacy code to co-exist. We evaluate our implementation on SPARC LEON3 and demonstrate its high efficiency.
Contract Breach and Retirement Among Spanish Adults

The present research examines the effects of contract breach on retirement satisfaction. We specifically tested the moderating role of retirement self-efficacy and the mediating role that negative affect may play in influencing the relationships between contract breach and retirement satisfaction, either anticipated or actual. Two empirical studies have been conducted by self-reported questionnaires, with older workers of Spanish descent from Spain—one sample being comprised of workers still in the workforce (Study 1; N = 160) and the other being comprised of recent retirees (Study 2; N = 215). We found that contract breach was positively related to negative affect and negatively related to both anticipated (Study 1) and actual retirement satisfaction (Study 2). Moreover, moderation analyses showed that these effects are strong for participants with low rather than high retirement self-efficacy. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 interacts with p21‐activated kinase 6 to control neurite complexity in mammalian brain

Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is a causative gene for Parkinson's disease, but the physiological function and the mechanism(s) by which the cellular activity of LRRK2 is regulated are poorly understood. Here, we identified p21‐activated kinase 6 (PAK6) as a novel interactor of the GTPase/ROC domain of LRRK2. p21‐activated kinases are serine‐threonine kinases that serve as targets for the small GTP binding proteins Cdc42 and Rac1 and have been implicated in different morphogenetic processes through remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton such as synapse formation and neuritogenesis. Using an in vivo neuromorphology assay, we show that PAK6 is a positive regulator of neurite outgrowth and that LRRK2 is required for this function. Analyses of post‐mortem brain tissue from idiopathic and LRRK2 G2019S carriers reveal an increase in PAK6 activation state, whereas knock‐out LRRK2 mice display reduced PAK6 activation and phosphorylation of PAK6 substrates. Taken together, these results support a critical role of LRRK2 GTPase domain in cytoskeletal dynamics in vivo through the novel interactor PAK6, and provide a valuable platform to unravel the mechanism underlying LRRK2‐mediated pathophysiology.
The role of personal resources in the relationship between job stressors and emotional exhaustion

Abstract Our study was designed to examine an individuals’ affective traits (i.e., dispositional affectivity and emotional intelligence) and job stressors (i.e., interpersonal conflicts, quantitative workload and organizational constraints) on emotional exhaustion. One hundred and fifty-three employees participated in our study. All of them worked in teams and their job required face-to-face contacts with clients. Our main hypothesis was that emotional intelligence acts as a moderator in the relationship between job stressors and emotional exhaustion. The results indicate that employees who report more interpersonal conflicts at work, greater quantitative workloads and greater organizational constraints also report more symptoms of emotional exhaustion. Moreover, the results show that all three stressors were significant as predictors of emotional exhaustion beyond the employee’s dispositional affectivity. The moderating effect of emotional intelligence was observed in the relationship between interpersonal conflicts at work and emotional exhaustion. The relationship between interpersonal conflicts and emotional exhaustion was observed only among employees who were low in emotional intelligence. In contrast, interpersonal conflicts and emotional exhaustion were unrelated among employees who were high in emotional intelligence. The results are discussed from the Job Demands–Resources model perspective.
Engagement of the GABA to KCC2 Signaling Pathway Contributes to the Analgesic Effects of A3AR Agonists in Neuropathic Pain

More than 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from chronic pain, yet current treatment strategies often lack efficacy or have deleterious side effects in patients. Adenosine is an inhibitory neuromodulator that was previously thought to mediate antinociception through the A1 and A2A receptor subtypes. We have since demonstrated that A3AR agonists have potent analgesic actions in preclinical rodent models of neuropathic pain and that A3AR analgesia is independent of adenosine A1 or A2A unwanted effects. Herein, we explored the contribution of the GABA inhibitory system to A3AR-mediated analgesia using well-characterized mouse and rat models of chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain. The deregulation of GABA signaling in pathophysiological pain states is well established: GABA signaling can be hampered by a reduction in extracellular GABA synthesis by GAD65 and enhanced extracellular GABA reuptake via the GABA transporter, GAT-1. In neuropathic pain, GABAAR-mediated signaling can be further disrupted by the loss of the KCC2 chloride anion gradient. Here, we demonstrate that A3AR agonists (IB-MECA and MRS5698) reverse neuropathic pain via a spinal mechanism of action that modulates GABA activity. Spinal administration of the GABAA antagonist, bicuculline, disrupted A3AR-mediated analgesia. Furthermore, A3AR-mediated analgesia was associated with reductions in CCI-related GAD65 and GAT-1 serine dephosphorylation as well as an enhancement of KCC2 serine phosphorylation and activity. Our results suggest that A3AR-mediated reversal of neuropathic pain increases modulation of GABA inhibitory neurotransmission both directly and indirectly through protection of KCC2 function, underscoring the unique utility of A3AR agonists in chronic pain.
Clinical outcomes and cost analysis for unilateral versus bilateral pedicle screw fixation in two levels during minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion ( MIS-TLIF ) : a comparative analysis

Study Design: Retrospective clinical study of 116 patients who underwent either a bilateral or unilateral TLIF procedure for the treatment of degenerative lumbar diseases. Objectives: We design this retrospective clinical study to compare the clinical, radiological outcomes and complication of unilateral pedicle screw (UPS) versus bilateral pedicle screw (BPS) in degenerative lumbar diseases after MIS-TLIF. Summary of Background Data. Studies have shown that minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) was used in a large number of lumbar degenerative disorders. However, unilateral or bilateral pedicle screw fixation after MITLIF remains controversial, especially in two-level surgery. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 116 consecutive patients who had two-level MIS-TLIF at L4/L5 and L5/S1 from January 2010 to January 2014 and the clinical and radiological outcome and the complication were compared. Of the 116 patients for analysis, 52 patients underwent unilateral fixation, and 64 patients underwent bilateral fixation. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in baseline demographic characteristics and in hospital-stay period between the two groups (P>0.05). There was a significantly longer operating time, more blood loss and X-ray exposure times in BPS comparing with UPS (P<0.05). Clinical outcomes in two groups such as the pain (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) improved significantly after surgery and no difference was found between them (P<0.05). The number of patients who have good or excellent outcomes in UPS was 84.6% which in BPS was 82.3%. No significant difference was found in fusion rate and total complication rate between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the two fixation methods of MIS-TLIF in clinical outcomes and complications. However, unilateral pedicle screw has some superiorities such as shorter operating time, lower cost, less blood loss and X-ray exposure. Unilateral pedicle screw might be more suitable in performing two-level pedicle screw fixation after MIS-TLIF.
A Common Haplotype of the TNF Receptor 2 Gene Modulates Endotoxin Tolerance

Endotoxin tolerance is characterized by the suppression of further TNF release upon recurrent exposure to LPS. This phenomenon is proposed to act as a homeostatic mechanism preventing uncontrolled cytokine release such as that observed in bacterial sepsis. The regulatory mechanisms and interindividual variation of endotoxin tolerance induction in man remain poorly characterized. In this paper, we describe a genetic association study of variation in endotoxin tolerance among healthy individuals. We identify a common promoter haplotype in TNFRSF1B (encoding TNFR2) to be strongly associated with reduced tolerance to LPS (p = 5.82 × 10−6). This identified haplotype is associated with increased expression of TNFR2 (p = 4.9 × 10−5), and we find basal expression of TNFR2, irrespective of genotype and unlike TNFR1, is associated with secondary TNF release (p < 0.0001). Functional studies demonstrate a positive-feedback loop via TNFR2 of LPS-induced TNF release, confirming this previously unrecognized role for TNFR2 in the modulation of LPS response.
Modelling Enhancement of Team Emotional Intelligence

This article aims to review the concept of team emotional intelligence (TEI) and propose a conceptual model for its enhancement. It seeks to analyze the past literature on TEI and attempts to identify and derive a relationship between different variables that influence it. The technique of interpretive structural modelling (ISM) has been used to identify the strongest and weakest drivers of TEI. The relationship between the individual- and team-level variables was established to develop a theoretical model for enhancement of TEI. The model will help organizations to focus on the right variables to enhance TEI, thus producing effective teams and efficient results. The article adds a new dimension to the approach of TEI by proposing a model for enhancing it. It also studies the different variables of TEI at individual and team levels and their interrelationships, which have not yet been explored extensively.
Intersectionality in Quantitative Psychological Research

Intersectionality has become something of a buzzword in psychology and is well-known in feminist writings throughout the social sciences. Across diverse definitions of intersectionality, we find three common assumptions: (1) There is a recognition that all people are characterized simultaneously by multiple social categories and that these categories are interconnected or intertwined. (2) Embedded within each of these categories is a dimension of inequality or power. (3) These categories are properties of the individual as well as characteristics of the social context inhabited by those individuals; as such, categories and their significance may be fluid and dynamic. Understanding intersectionality as an approach and critical theory, rather than as a falsifiable theory, we consider its potential within research using quantitative methods. We discuss positivism, social constructionism, and standpoint epistemology in order to examine the implications of these epistemologies for research methods and to explore how compatible an intersectional approach may be with each. With an eye toward expanding the incorporation of intersectional approaches in the psychology of women, we discuss both the challenges and the potential of combining quantitative methods and intersectionality. We contend that quantitative methods can be used within an intersectional approach and that doing so will expand and develop the study of intersectionality, insofar as more research tools will be available to intersectionality researchers. We also contend that quantitative researchers should incorporate an intersectional approach into their work and that doing so will enrich and deepen our understanding of psychological constructs and processes.
Influence of gait on bone strength in turkeys with leg defects

Abstract Leg problems have become more frequent in fast‐growing turkeys. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of common leg defects on kinetic parameters of gait and biomechanical properties of bone. Nine hundred, day‐old, male, Large White turkeys were raised in 48 floor pens. At 42 d of age, turkeys were divided into four categories of leg condition as determined by visual evaluation: Normal, Crooked toes, Shaky legs, and Valgus. Fifteen toms were selected from each group and trained to walk on a pressure sensitive walkway. Gait kinetic data were collected at 92, 115 and 144 d of age. At 145 d of age, turkeys were sacrificed and bones were collected and frozen until analysis. Morphological measurements of femur, tibia and tarsus‐metatarsus were recorded. Bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC) were obtained using DEXA. Bone strength of tibias was evaluated using a four‐point bending test and femurs with a torsion test. ANOVA was used to detect differences among groups, and Tukey's test used for mean separation. There were no differences in BW among different leg conditions. Gait parameters changed as turkeys aged, and age‐group interactions were observed on peak vertical force (PVF), contact time, step length (SL) and bipedal cycle. No differences (P > 0.05) were detected in morphological measurements of femur or tibia. Relative asymmetry of femur length was lower (P < 0.05) in Normal and Valgus turkeys than in toms with Crooked toes. There were no differences (P > 0.05) among groups for femur BMD, BMC or strength. Tibia BMD and the area moment of inertia of turkeys with Crooked toes were lower (P < 0.05) than in toms with Valgus. With all four leg conditions, femur strength was positively correlated with PVF and negatively correlated with SL; BMD and BMC were correlated with tibia strength and gait kinetic parameters. In conclusion, only crooked toes caused consistent differences in gait patterns, bone properties and bone strength, but in general, gait kinetics was correlated with bone biomechanics in turkeys.
Cutting Edge: NKT Cells Constitutively Express IL-23 Receptor and RORγt and Rapidly Produce IL-17 upon Receptor Ligation in an IL-6-Independent Fashion1

Th17 cells require IL-6 and TGFβ for lineage commitment and IL-23 for maintenance. Unexpectedly, naive IL-6−/− splenocytes stimulated with anti-CD3 and IL-23 produced normal amounts of IL-17 during the first 24 h of culture. These rapid IL-6-independent IL-17 producers were identified as predominantly DX5+ TCRβ+ NKT cells, and a comparable response could be found using the invariant NKT-specific ligand α-galactosylceramide. Human NKT cells also produced IL-17. NKT cells constitutively expressed IL-23R and RORγt. Ligation of either TCR or IL-23R triggered IL-17 production and both together had a synergistic effect, suggesting independent but convergent pathways. IL-17 production was not restricted to a particular subset of NKT cells but they were NK1.1 negative. Importantly, in vivo administration of α-galactosylceramide triggered a rapid IL-17 response in the spleen. These data suggest an important biological role for innate IL-17 production by NKT cells that is rapid and precedes the adaptive IL-17 response.
To Veil or Not to Veil: Voices of Malaysian Muslim Women

Few cultural artifacts exemplify the power of nonverbal communication more than the veil worn by some Muslim women. Rarely has a piece of clothing held such disparate and controversial meanings around the globe. This ethnographic study explores the meanings that some veiled, unveiled, and sometimes-veiled Muslim women in one state in Malaysia assign to this head covering by examining the reasons for their veiling decisions. Results illustrate that meanings are complex and individually assigned and that one cannot gauge religious beliefs or devotion solely on dress. The findings also demonstrate the power of this nonverbal artifact to influence self-image and behavior. Many of the results of this study are congruent with previous research on the meanings of the veil to Muslim women in other parts of the globe, but some are incongruent, emphasizing that meanings are both culturally and contextually dependent.
Inflammation, kidney function and albuminuria in the Framingham Offspring cohort.

BACKGROUND Inflammation and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are both associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Whether inflammatory biomarkers are associated with kidney function and albuminuria after accounting for traditional CVD risk factors is not completely understood. METHODS The sample comprised Framingham Offspring cohort participants (n = 3294, mean age 61, 53% women) who attended the seventh examination cycle (1998-2001). Inflammatory biomarkers [C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin-6, TNF receptor 2 (TNFR2), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), P-selectin, CD-40 ligand, osteoprotegerin, urinary isoprostanes, myeloperoxidase and fibrinogen] were measured on fasting blood samples. Serum creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum cystatin C concentration were used to assess kidney function. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) was used to assess albuminuria. Linear or logistic regression was used to test associations between biomarkers and kidney measures. RESULTS Chronic kidney disease (CKD), defined as eGFR < 59/64 mL/min/1.73 m(2) in women/men, was present in 8.8% (n = 291) of participants. TNF-alpha, interleukin-6, TNFR2, MCP-1, osteoprotegerin, myeloperoxidase and fibrinogen were higher among individuals with CKD; all biomarkers except for urinary isoprostanes were elevated in higher cystatin C quartiles; and TNF-alpha, interleukin-6, TNFR2, ICAM-1 and osteoprotegerin were elevated in higher UACR quartiles-all assessed after multivariable adjustment. Almost 6% and 17% of variability in TNFR2 were explained by CKD status and higher cystatin C quartiles, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Biomarkers of inflammation are associated with kidney function and albuminuria. In particular, substantial variability in soluble TNFR2 is explained by CKD and cystatin C.
Measurement invariance of the Eating Disorder Examination in black and white children and adolescents

OBJECTIVE The Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) was originally developed and validated in primarily white female samples. Since data indicate that eating pathology impacts black youth, elucidating the psychometric appropriateness of the EDE for black youth is crucial. METHODS A convenience sample was assembled from seven pediatric obesity studies. The EDE was administered to all youth. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were conducted to examine the original four-factor model fit and two alternative factor structures for black and white youth. With acceptable fit, multiple-group CFAs were conducted. For measurement invariant structures, the interactive effects of race with sex, BMIz, adiposity, and age were explored (all significance levels p < .05). RESULTS For both black and white youth (N = 820; 41% black; 37% male; 6-18 years; BMIz -3.11 to 3.40), the original four-factor EDE structure and alternative eight-item one-factor structure had mixed fit via CFA. However, a seven-item, three-factor structure reflecting Dietary Restraint, Shape/Weight Overvaluation, and Body Dissatisfaction had good fit and held at the level of strict invariance. Girls reported higher factor scores than boys. BMIz and adiposity were positively associated with each subscale. Age was associated with Dietary Restraint and Body Dissatisfaction. The interactional effects between sex, BMIz, and age with race were not significant; however, the interaction between adiposity and race was significant. At higher adiposity, white youth reported greater pathology than black youth. CONCLUSION An abbreviated seven-item, three-factor version of the EDE captures eating pathology equivalently across black and white youth. Full psychometric testing of the modified EDE factor structure in black youth is warranted.