Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Endothelial cells promote triple‐negative breast cancer cell metastasis via PAI‐1 and CCL5 signaling

Endothelial cells (ECs) in the tumor microenvironment have been reported to play a more active role in solid tumor growth and metastatic dissemination than simply providing the physical structure to form conduits for blood flow; however, the involvement of ECs in the process of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) metastasis has not been addressed. Here, we demonstrate that ECs—when mixed with TNBC cells—could increase TNBC cell metastatic potency. After treatment with TGF‐p to induce endothelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), TNBC cells could produce plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) and stimulate the expression and secretion of the che‐ mokine, CCL5, from ECs, which then acts in a paracrine fashion on TNBC cells to enhance their migration, invasion, and metastasis. CCL5, in turn, accelerates TNBC cell secretion of PAI‐1 and promotes TNBC cell metastasis, thus forming a positive feedback loop. Moreover, this enhanced metastatic ability is reversible and dependent on CCL5 signaling via the chemokine receptor, CCR5. Of importance, key features of this pathway are manifested in patients with TNBC and in The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Taken together, our results suggest that ECs enhance EMT‐ induced TNBC cell metastasis via PAI‐1 and CCL5 signaling and illustrate the potential of developing new PAI‐1‐ and CCL5‐targeting therapy for patients with TNBC. —Zhang, W. , Xu, J., Fang, H. , Tang, L. , Chen, W. , Sun, Q. , Zhang, Q. , Yang, F. , Sun, Z. , Cao, L. , Wang, Y. , Guan, X. Endothelial cells promote triple‐negative breast cancer cell metastasis via PAI‐1 and CCL5 signaling. FASEB J. 32,276‐288 (2018). www.fasebj. org
H1N1v influenza vaccine in Greek medical students.

BACKGROUND We sought to investigate the penetration of the H1N1v vaccine in Greek medical students, as well as their approach to the vaccination. METHODS A survey was conducted among the students of the University of Athens, School of Medicine, 1 month after the initiation of the vaccination programme. Participants were asked to fill in a questionnaire regarding their status of vaccination and their approach to the H1N1v vaccine. RESULTS We handed a questionnaire to 1000 students (out of 1700 officially enrolled in the medical school) and retrieved 922 answers. Only 74 (8%) medical students had been vaccinated and 78 (9%) planned to (probably or definitely) do so in the future, while 641 (67%) would (probably or definitely) not get vaccinated. The highest coverage was among the sixth year students (37/234, 16%). The most common reasons for not having received the vaccine were perception of the disease as mild (387/848, 46%), and concern regarding long-term adverse events (370/848, 44%). Thirty percent (258/848) of the students doubted the vaccine's effectiveness, and 197 (23%) worried about possible short-term adverse events. One hundred and thirty-three respondents (16%) believed the whole story is a conspiracy while 102 (12%) reported to have had the flu. Almost half (43%) of the participants considered their knowledge on the subject inadequate. CONCLUSION Our findings confirmed the low penetration of the H1N1 vaccine in Greece, as in most European countries, even in medical students. Better education of the students and the public might aid in increasing the immunization rates.
Self-in-love versus self-in-stigma: implications of relationship quality and love attitudes on self-stigma and mental health among HIV-positive men having sex with men

ABSTRACT The present study examines the mediating effect of love attitude on the associations between relationship quality with self-stigma and mental health among HIV-positive men having sex with men (MSM). Participants included 211 HIV-positive MSM (Mage = 41.77 years, SD = 11.10) and they were assessed on their relationship quality, love attitudes, HIV-positive self-stigma, and mental health. Structural equation modeling showed that the model fit the data well, χ2(50) = 152.80, p < . 05, comparative fit index = . 94, non-normed fit index = . 92, standardized root mean square residual = . 08. The indirect effect of perceived relationship quality on self-stigma was significant through love attitude. The indirect effect of love attitude on mental health was significant through reduced self-stigma. The outcomes differed by the number of partners, partner’s knowledge of HIV-positive status, relationship nature, and marital status. Implications for developing a positive self-in-love to diminish self-stigma were discussed.
Increasing the Vote Number of the Albanian Political Parties Based on the Albanian Electorate Voting Behavior (Interested Stakeholders: Micro Level - Albanian Political Parties and Albanian Voter: Macro Level - Democracy Proficiency)

Electorate voting behavior is one of the significant impact components on the socio-political and economic life of the Albanian Republic. This is officially formulated in the article 1, point 3 of the Albanian Constitute: 3 “Governance is based on a system of elections that are free, equal, general and periodic”. It expresses the direct mechanism in which the individual takes part in political representation, constituting one of the directions in focus of the political parties whose aim is to increase the percentage of voters by offering programs during the electoral process in the interest of political platforms. This article analyses and advices how the parties should act to increase their voting percentage and become a “winner player of the electoral game”. However, this is achieved only by bringing in stake the real interests of the voters, thus the development of policies based on their interests, based on of types of voting behavior, such as socio-economic, psychological, age, gender, individual and group interests, etc. As a result, the study and knowledge of the dynamics of voting behavior (absent, rational, ideological, neutral voting behavior) is the step that should take the "political party" actor for this purpose. DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2013. v4n2p579
A Unique Case of a Sublingual-Space Schwannoma Arising from the Mylohyoid Nerve

We describe a unique case of a sublingual-space schwannoma presenting as a painless, 3 × 2-cm enlarging mass in the oral cavity of a 63-year-old man. Computed tomography demonstrated a distinct, well-encapsulated mass in the right side of the floor of the mouth. Findings on fine-needle aspiration cytology were consistent with a pleomorphic adenoma. Transoral excision was performed. Intraoperatively, the mass appeared to involve the nerve to the mylohyoid muscle. Upon removal, the gross tumor measured 4.4 × 3.5 × 2.5 cm. On microscopic examination, the spindle-cell neoplasm was found to be consistent with a schwannoma. Schwannomas of the sublingual space are exceedingly rare. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, this case represents the first published occurrence of a schwannoma that arose from the mylohyoid nerve.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia--screening is effective, but is it cost effective?

Familial Hypercholesterolaemia (FH), a condition associated with mutations in the LDL-receptor gene, predisposes to coronary heart disease (CHD) affecting 1 in 500 of most European populations. In FH patients (heterozygous for the LDL-receptor gene abnormality) only 50% of receptors are functional leading to substantially elevated serum cholesterol levels and premature CHD morbidity and mortality. The criteria of Wilson and Jungner form a useful basis in assessing the applicability of screening (see Table 1). Essentially to justify screening for this condition one needs to demonstrate that cases can be identified accurately and that effective treatments exist. In the current economic climate it is also necessary to establish cost effectiveness, and in addition one needs to be aware of the potential downside of screening — anxiety for those screened but ultimately reassured and the knowledge of increased risk in those identified as having FH. The ability to identify cases of FH has been established either by screening relatives of FH probands by measurement of serum cholesterol, or by seeking the genetic abnormality found in the index case. Screening appears feasible using both these strategies. In the UK, screening first degree relatives of FH cases by cholesterol level has been assessed. The logic of this approach is that it is the cholesterol that underlies the accelerated atherosclerosis and the cholesterol that we treat with statins. In addition, not all patients with abnormal LDL receptor genes have elevated cholesterols and not all those with elevated cholesterols have currently identifiable genetic abnormalities. As a side issue, but not one to be ignored, measuring cholesterol avoids the ethical concerns around DNA testing. However, the case for genetic screening has also been made as demonstrated by the results of the Netherlands programme. DNA screening can be performed accurately and completely with a single blood test at any age. The applicability of the genetic approach for a particular population is also determined by the number, prevalence and nature of the genetic defects in the population to be screened. With regards to treatment, few would question the effectiveness of statin therapy for these patients in reducing serum cholesterol, and by reasonable impli-
Prognostic significance of p105 (c-erbB-2 HER2/neu) serum levels in patients with ovarian cancer.

BACKGROUND Elevated serum levels of the oncoprotein p105 (c-erbB-2, HER2/neu) have been found in patients with ovarian cancer, but its role in this disease has not been clearly established. MATERIALS AND METHODS The authors studied the relationship between p105 serum levels, various tumor parameters, and survival in 57 patients with newly diagnosed, untreated ovarian cancer. Serum specimens were obtained at the time of initial surgery, and p105 levels were determined using the human neu quantitative ELISA assay. RESULTS Elevated p105 serum levels were correlated with a poor prognosis since patients with low p105 levels had a better survival than patients with high p105 levels (P = 0.02). This result was confirmed in stage III patients (n = 29; P = 0.08). p105 serum levels were not related to tumor stage, grade, histologic findings or serum CA 125 levels. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that ovarian cancer patients with elevated p105 serum levels may have a poor clinical outcome.
Effects of asthma on pulmonary function in children. A longitudinal population-based study.

Data from a longitudinal study of childhood factors influencing the development of chronic obstructive lung disease were used to assess the effects of asthma on lung function development in male and female children. A population-based cohort of 602 white children, initially aged 5 to 9 yr, was observed prospectively for 13 yr. Spirometry was performed and a standardized respiratory and illness questionnaire was administered by trained interviewers on a yearly basis. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of vital capacity (FEF25-75) were used as measures of lung function. The total number of children reporting asthma over the course of the study was 67. Male asthmatic subjects (n = 42) had larger average percentage of predicted FVC than nonasthmatic males (n = 277). Female asthmatic subjects (n = 23) had a lower average percentage of predicted FEV1 than nonasthmatic females (n = 260). In a multivariate analysis of the individual lung function measures, adjusting for previous level of pulmonary function, age, height, change in height, and personal and maternal smoking, males reporting active asthma had a significantly larger FVC than males with no history of asthma. In contrast, females with active asthma had a significantly smaller FEV1 than females with no history of asthma. Both males and females with active asthma had decreased FEF25-75. From our analysis, we would predict that a female who develops asthma at age 7 would experience a 5% reduction in FEV1 by age 10 and a 7% deficit by age 15. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
HPV16 E6 and E7 proteins cooperate to immortalize human foreskin keratinocytes.

The human papillomavirus types (HPVs) most often associated with cancer of the cervix, such as HPV16, have been reported previously to immortalize normal human foreskin keratinocytes in vitro, while the types that are primarily associated with benign cervical lesions failed to do so. In this study we have determined the HPV16 genes that are responsible for the immortalizing activity of the viral genome. Transfection with a plasmid in which E6 and E7 were the only intact open reading frames (ORFs) induced an indefinite life‐span in the keratinocytes with an efficiency similar to that of the entire early region of the viral DNA. Mutants in the E6E7 clone with inactivating lesions in E6 or E7 failed to induce immortalization. When transfected alone, E7 could induce hyperproliferation, but these cells eventually senesced. By itself, E6 exhibited no activity, Co‐transfection of a plasmid with an intact E6 ORF and a second plasmid with an intact E7 ORF generated keratinocyte lines with indefinite growth potential. The E6 and E7 proteins were detected in the lines induced by the E6E7 DNA and by co‐transfection of the E6 and E7 plasmids. Therefore, we conclude that HPV16 E6 and E7 cooperative to immortalize human keratinocytes in vitro. Changes in cellular gene expression are probably also required for immortalization since all of the keratinocyte lines examined were aneuploid. Serum and calcium resistant sublines were isolated from the E6E7 induced lines, indicating that other HPV genes do not play an obligatory role in the generation of resistance to differentiation. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Comparison of tincture of opium and methadone to control opioid withdrawal in a Thai treatment centre.

AIMS To evaluate the effectiveness of oral tincture of opium (TOP) and methadone to control opioid withdrawal in patients in northern Thailand. METHODS Open label, parallel group study in an inpatient facility compared 15 former heroin users receiving methadone 5-20 mg 12 hourly with 15 former opium smokers receiving TOP (3.33-10 mg morphine equivalents 12 hourly). At 0, 1, 3 and 8 h, blood, withdrawal scores and subjective opioid effects were collected. RESULTS There was a reciprocal association between withdrawal scores/direct subjective opioid effects and plasma (R)-methadone, but not plasma morphine, concentrations. Withdrawal scores at the time of dosing were higher in the TOP patients (9.1 +/- 3) than in the methadone patients (4.5 +/- 4.6) and in the TOP patients were significantly (P = 0.001) attenuated at 3 and 8 h. CONCLUSIONS At the doses used, TOP was inferior to methadone in suppressing withdrawal. It could prove to be a cost effective and valuable drug, but only after dose size and frequency are further investigated.
Transcriptome analysis of fibroblast cells immediate-early after human cytomegalovirus infection.

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been shown to have the potential to alter cellular gene expression early after infection. However, one-gene approaches and the use of closed system gene expression technologies have identified only few cellular genes whose activity changed immediate-early. We therefore used serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) to investigate the transcriptional program of human fibroblasts in response to HCMV in the immediate-early phase of infection. Differential expression of various cellular genes was monitored. Transcriptional expression changes of genes coding for ribosomal proteins reflected a general cellular response to starvation and stress. But differential regulation of genes coding for transcription factors and proteins associated with cellular metabolism, homeostasis and cell structure may represent transcriptional alterations in response to HCMV infection. Expression kinetics by 5' nuclease fluorigenic real-time PCR of selected genes revealed partial protection of infected cells against initial stress-associated alterations of gene expression and indicated fluctuations of transcriptional levels over time. Additionally, agreement with the quantitative results obtained by SAGE was observed only for genes up-regulated in HCMV-infected cells. This finding pointed to various technical and statistical parameters that all may be critical for quantitative transcriptome studies using global approaches, especially when exploring biological systems in a critical phase of cellular physiology.
Endogenous DNA abasic sites cause cell death in the absence of Apn1, Apn2 and Rad1/Rad10 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mutations in APN1, APN2 and either RAD1 or RAD10 genes are synthetic lethal. In fact, apn1 apn2 rad1 triple mutants can form microcolonies of ∼300 cells. Expression of Nfo, the bacterial homologue of Apn1, suppresses the lethality. Turning off the expression of Nfo induces G2/M cell cycle arrest in an apn1 apn2 rad1 triple mutant. The activation of this checkpoint is RAD9 dependent and allows residual DNA repair. The Mus81/Mms4 complex was identified as one of these back‐up repair activities. Furthermore, inactivation of Ntg1, Ntg2 and Ogg1 DNA N‐glycosylase/AP lyases in the apn1 apn2 rad1 background delayed lethality, allowing the formation of minicolonies of ∼105 cells. These results demonstrate that, under physiological conditions, endogenous DNA damage causes death in cells deficient in Apn1, Apn2 and Rad1/Rad10 proteins. We propose a model in which endogenous DNA abasic sites are converted into 3′‐blocked single‐strand breaks (SSBs) by DNA N‐glycosylases/AP lyases. Therefore, we suggest that the essential and overlapping function of Apn1, Apn2, Rad1/Rad10 and Mus81/Mms4 is to repair 3′‐blocked SSBs using their 3′‐phosphodiesterase activity or their 3′‐flap endonuclease activity, respectively.
Constitutive Expression of Class 3 Aldehyde Dehydrogenase in Cultured Rat Corneal Epithelium (*)

Mammalian Class 3 aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) is normally associated with neoplastic transformation or xenobiotic induction by aromatic hydrocarbons in liver. However, Class 3 ALDH is constitutively expressed at it's highest specific activity in corneal epithelium. Tissue-specific, differential gene expression is often controlled by alternative, independent molecular pathways. We report here the development of an in vitro corneal epithelium culture system that retains constitutive high expression of the ALDH3 gene. This model system was used to establish, by enzymatic assays, Western and Northern analyses, histochemical and immunocytochemical staining, and 5′3′ RACE methodologies that constitutive and xenobiotic induction of Class 3 ALDHs occurs from a single gene. Our results also provide a plausible explanation for the very high Class 3 ALDH activity in mammalian cornea, as the primary mechanism of oxidation of lipid peroxidation-derived aldehydes. Further studies with corneal epithelium suggest the presence of additional mechanisms, other than Ah-receptor-mediated, by which the ALDH3 gene can be differentially regulated in a tissue-specific manner.
Pygmalion teaching style, is there a need for it?

Herein follows a research and analysis concerning the possible occurrence of the Pygmalion effect, a type of self-fulfilling prophecy, in the classrooms of the Academy of Economic Studies, Bucharest. The purpose of the paper lies in outlining the possible impact the Pygmalion effect can have on students’ experience in class, as well as ways of harnessing the positive aspects of this effect in the context of teaching as an act of negotiation between professor and student. While it may be said that the term “self-fulfilling prophecy” is not an accurate way to describe the phenomena in question (Eden, 1992), due to the fact that it is not the prophecy which fulfills itself, but the prophet who, unwittingly, takes a course of action that brings about the initially expected result, the facts described in theory and proven through studies remain accurate. Whatever the approach chosen for the future, the matter certainly proves itself to be a significant one, with a possibly great impact on the quality of education and student engagement, and it certainly deserves a closer look
Effect of White Cheese and Sugarless Yoghurt on Dental Plaque Acidogenicity

White cheese and sugarless yoghurt are frequently consumed traditional Turkish foods. The aim of this study was to assess their acidogenic potential when eaten alone or following a rinse with sucrose solution. Plaque pH was measured by a pH microelectrode at baseline to determine the resting plaque pH and at time intervals of 1–60 min after rinsing with 10% sucrose solution or eating the test food for 1 min. White cheese consumption for 1 min increased the plaque pH. When white cheese was eaten 5 min after rinsing with 10% sucrose solution, the plaque pH rose rapidly. After sugarless yoghurt consumption, the pH fell to a similar minimum as for sucrose after 5 min but returned to baseline levels after 30 instead of 60 min. Consumption of sugarless yoghurt after a sucrose rinse initially reduced the plaque pH further but did not affect the time taken for pH to regain baseline levels.
Strategies for making more organs available for transplantation.

Organ transplantation has evolved rapidly from the first early successes1 to the current widespread use of donated organs for the treatment of end-stage kidney, heart, and liver failure. With limited supplies of organs and an increasing demand for them, however, many patients who need transplants do not receive them (Figure 1). 2 Each year, about 3000 patients in the United States die while waiting for an organ transplant, and about 100,000 potential candidates for transplantation die before they are placed on a waiting list.2 There is an 11 percent annual increase in the number of patients placed on waiting lists for .
Optimization of waveform and detection threshold for range and range-rate tracking in clutter

We address an optimization problem to obtain the combined sequence of waveform parameters (pulse amplitudes and lengths, and FM sweep rates) and detection thresholds for optimal range and range-rate tracking in clutter. The optimal combined sequence minimizes a tracking performance index under a set of parameter constraints. The performance index includes the probability of track loss and a function of estimation error covariances. The track loss probability and the error covariances are predicted using a hybrid conditional average algorithm. The effect of the false alarms and clutter interference is taken into account in the prediction. A measurement model in explicit form is also presented which is developed based on the resolution cell in the delay-Doppler plane for a single Gaussian pulse. Numerical experiments were performed to solve the optimization problem for several examples.