Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-1 alpha and basic fibroblast growth factor induction of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in osteosarcoma cells is modulated by the metastasis associated protein CAPL.

BACKGROUND Several recent investigations have shown that the expression of the CAPL protein seems to be of importance in the metastatic potential in some types of cancer. However, the mechanisms behind this and other biological functions of CAPL are still largely unknown. The aim of the present work was to investigate whether CAPL could affect the expression of candidate proteolytic facilitators of the metastatic process, i.e. matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs). MATERIALS AND METHODS A highly metastatic osteosarcoma cell-line with a high expression of CAPL was transfected with either a vector containing a ribozyme against this transcript, or with the vector alone as a control. The expression of MMPs and TIMPs was investigated with ELISA and gelatin zymography. RESULTS The cell-line with a low CAPL expression (III-14) responded to bFGF treatment by an increased synthesis of MMP-1 and MMP-9 and to Il-1 alpha treatment by an increased synthesis of MMP-9. In contrast, the cell-line with a high CAPL expression (pH beta-1) did not respond with an altered expression of these MMPs. Neither of these two cell-lines responded with an altered expression of MMP-2. bFGF treatment resulted in an increased expression of TIMP-1 in both cell-lines, while Il-1 alpha treatment resulted in a decreased production of TIMP-1 in pH beta-1 cells, and III-14 cells were unaffected. CONCLUSIONS The CAPL protein expressed in cell-cultures appear to block the MMP induction by bFGF and Il-1 alpha. However, the induction of TIMP-1 by bFGF must proceed through a pathway different from the MMP induced pathway, i.e. a pathway unaffected by CAPL. In addition, CAPL appeared to act in synergy with Il-1 alpha to reduce the synthesis of TIMP-1.
What Do We Really Know About the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership: Facts Versus Myths? Trying to Understand Social Expectations

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to confront the social expectations of the TTIP, and how it effects the so-called "expert knowledge". Defining a mismatch between the social expectations and expert knowledge may contribute to better understanding of the controversies related to the TTIP. Using the NAFTA case study, we investigate if there is a significant gap between ex-ante and ex-post analysis of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Design/methodology/approach: We rely on Eurobarometer (2014, 2015) and Bertelsmann Foundation (2016) surveys to describe the TTIP-related social expectations. We make a critical overview of the global CGE models, which are the main source of ex-ante estimations of TTIP macro effects. We also use the NAFTA case study as a TTIP reference point that allows for a comparison of ex-ante with ex-post analysis results. Findings: Social expectations regarding the economic effects of the TTIP are ambiguous on both sides of the Atlantic. The CGE models have many limiting assumptions. They are, however, a useful tool for exploring the effects of the TTIP, bearing in mind all restrictions and limitations of ex-ante analyses. The NAFTA case study indicates that most ex-ante models tend to overestimate benefits and underestimate disadvantages arising from free trade. Research limitations/implications: Many such surveys have been conducted recently. The results should be developed upon, for a more detailed, country-specific and time variant understanding of possible sources of social conflicts in the context of the TTIP (or FTA) implementation. Originality/value: The analysis tends to prove the existence of a mismatch between social and expert knowledge on the TTIP, which may result in generating social conflicts. A practical and original outcome of our work is a well-supported recommendation to make the TTIP realistic effects much more transparent to the public, which should be important to those supporting the TTIP (and generally speaking FTA).
Oxidized low‐density lipoproteins bind to the scavenger receptor, CD36, of hepatic stellate cells and stimulate extracellular matrix synthesis

Cumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress resulting in lipid peroxidation and protein modification is involved in the pathogenesis of chronic liver injury and fibrogenesis. We investigated the effects of oxidized low‐density lipoproteins (oxLDL) on collagen and fibronectin synthesis of cultured human and rat hepatic stellate cells (HSC). As shown on protein and mRNA levels, oxLDL dose‐dependently stimulated the synthesis of collagen types I and III and fibronectin of cultured HSC. The effect was biphasic, with a maximum between 5 and 25 μg/mL oxLDL (c‐fibronectin concentration in HSC supernatants increased 3.9‐fold; collagen type I increased 4‐fold). Higher oxLDL concentrations were cytotoxic. LDL modified with malondialdehyde (MDA) was not toxic, but stimulated extracellular matrix synthesis as well. As demonstrated by immunofluorescence microscopy (double staining of CD36 and iso‐α‐smooth muscle actin [iso‐α‐sm actin]), immunoblot, and reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), respectively, cultured human HSC express the oxLDL receptor, CD36 (glycoprotein IIIb). Colocalization of CD36 and iso‐α‐sm actin on sinusoidal lining cells was further demonstrated using sections of human fibrotic liver. Preincubation of cultured human HSC with the monoclonal antibody, OKM5, known to block CD36‐mediated oxLDL uptake, resulted in a reduction of the oxLDL‐stimulated collagen type I synthesis by 56%. In summary, our results demonstrate that low concentrations of modified lipoproteins (oxLDL and MDA‐LDL) represent fibrogenic mediators that bind to CD36 and stimulate matrix synthesis of HSC.
Corporate social responsibility and financial performance in Saudi Arabia: Evidence from Zakat contribution

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on corporate financial performance (CFP) using Zakat as a measure for CSR. Design/methodology/approach The study examines a sample of 107 non-financial firms listed on the Saudi Arabia stock market over a ten-year period from 2004 to 2013. The authors use the generalized method of moments framework developed by Arellano and Bover (1995) and Blundell and Bond (1998). In addition, for comparison purpose and as a robustness check, the present study uses other panel data techniques including fixed effects model, random effects model (and pooled ordinary least squares. Findings The results reveal that there is a strong positive relationship between CSR (Zakat) and CFP. This suggests that Zakat contribute positively to both firm’s profitability and value and can be considered as a win-win strategy to maximize returns and improve performance while considering the society as a whole. The results are robust to alternative econometric estimation methods. Practical implications The companies in Islamic economies can effectively and efficiently implement the basic Shari’a Law of paying Zakat, as a successful measure to implement CSR program, thus benefiting the society by narrowing the gap between the haves and have-nots, that, in turn, leads the company to achieve successfully its short-term as well as long-term goals and enhances the value of the firm in the market. Moreover, corporations are generally encouraged to adopt CSR because of its perceived benefits to both macro- and micro-performances. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first empirical study attempting to examine CSR-CFP relationship within Saudi context employing Zakat as a proxy for CSR. Additionally, the paper provides support for the stakeholder theory from an Islamic perspective.
Public Investments in Education and Children’s Academic Achievements

Abstract While the benefits of additional schooling in the developing world are widely recognised, the best use of scarce resources to improve academic achievement remains unclear. We compare public investments in school infrastructure, school improvement grants, teacher qualifications, and attendance incentives on independently-gathered measures of academic skills as well as grade progression for 8–11 year olds in India. We match a rich household survey containing a skills-assessment module, the India Human Development Survey (IHDS), with detailed measures of each district’s education resources from the District Information Survey on Education (DISE). We also include border-pair fixed effects to control for unobserved heterogeneity. We find that incentives for children to attend school were associated with arithmetic, reading and writing skills, and grade progression. Investment in teachers were associated with greater probability a child could write and do more advanced math. Small improvement grants to schools were associated with better reading skills and writing ability. Investments in school infrastructure were only associated with improved writing ability.
The effects of using English as a business lingua franca on spoken brand co-creation communication : a discursive approach

This study explores the phenomenon of brand co-creation from a communicative perspective. The study investigates how Finnish SMEs operating in international B2B markets use English as a business lingua franca (BELF) for brand communication. The purpose of the study is to contribute to brand co-creation theory by illustrating how using BELF affects spoken brand co-creation discourse and increase our understanding of brand co-creation communication by applying a discursive approach. The theoretical framework of the study is based on branding literature, BELF research, discourse theory and social constructionism. The study introduces an analytical framework for exploring BELF in spoken brand co-creation communication through the discourse dimensions of verbal language use, the communication of brand meanings and face-to-face social interaction among stakeholders. The empirical data was collected by implementing a business communication simulation designed for the study. It was used to analyse how internal stakeholders use verbal BELF to communicate brand meanings in face-to-face social interaction. A discursive approach was also applied in the analysis. In the study, three spoken brand co-creation discourses were identified: informative, credible and emotional discourse. This study shows that brand co-creation is a phenomenon intertwined with language. When the language of business communication is BELF, it can both enable and impede brand co-creation communication. Efficient and informative communication is often regarded as essential in business communication but from brand communication perspective informative communication may not be sufficient to create an interesting and a memorable brand. The study also shows that spoken brand co-creation communication with BELF requires versatile language and communication competence; especially emotional brand discourse may require more versatile BELF competence than previously has been acknowledged. From a managerial viewpoint, it is important to understand that internal stakeholders are continuously communicating about the brand to external stakeholders with spoken language. Thus, the brand is visible in the daily operations through language, although not necessarily as intended by the management.
Role of gastric lavage and broncho-alveolar lavage in the bacteriological diagnosis of childhood pulmonary tuberculosis.

OBJECTIVE To compare the mycobacteriological yield from gastric lavage (GL) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), in children with pulmonary tuberculosis. METHODS 58 consecutive children with chest radiograph suggestive of tuberculosis and positive Mantoux test or a positive history of family contact with a case of tuberculosis were prospectively subjected to gastric lavage on three consecutive mornings and broncho-alveolar lavage on the last day. The samples were subjected to bacteriological isolation. RESULTS Samples from 10 (17.2%) children grew Mycobaterium tuberculosis from gastric lavage and 12 children had their BAL positive for this bacteria(p>0.05). Overall mycobacterial isolation was possible in 20 patients (34.4%) as two children had grown Mycobacterim tuberculosis in GL as well as BAL. Addition of BAL to the diagnostic work up increased the mycobacteriological yield from 17.2% with gastric lavage alone to 34.4% when BAL was also performed (p=0.013). CONCLUSION There is no difference in mycobacterial isolation rates from gastric lavage and BAL when studied in isolation. However, when both GL and BAL are used; these procedures complement each other to double the diagnostic yield.
Potassium Channel mRNA Expression in Prevertebral and Paravertebral Sympathetic Neurons

The expression of eighteen different voltage‐activated potassium channel genes in rat sympathetic ganglia was quantitatively analysed using an RNase protection assay. Eleven α‐subunit genes and two β‐subunit genes were expressed in sympathetic ganglia. The relative level of potassium channel mRNA expression was compared between the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) and two prevertebral sympathetic ganglia, the coeliac ganglion (CG) and the superior mesenteric ganglion (SMG). Four mRNAs were differentially expressed: Kv1.2, Kv1.4, Kv2.2 and Kvβ1. Transcripts from all four genes were more abundant in the prevertebral ganglia. From comparisons with previous electrophysiological studies it was concluded that genes encoding the channels underlying the M‐current and D2‐current, which are both prominent in sympathetic neurons, have yet to be identified. It was also concluded that members of the Kv4 family are likely to underlie the low‐threshold A‐current in sympathetic neurons.
Effective extension of trading hours

To uncover the complex feature of the effect of extending trading hours, I analyze what kind of the extension is effective on price efficiency and price stability, by utilizing an agent-based market model. Specifically, I examine whether the partial extension of trading hours—namely implementing the pre-market session and the after-hours session—and what duration of the session is effective. The simulation result reveals that the implementation of both sessions could have a negative impact on price efficiency and stability if investors’ participation during the session is limited; it could result in more concentrated trading in the opening session, wider divergence between market prices and the fundamental value, and lower price stability. In addition, longer sessions are less beneficial (or more harmful). My result also shows that there are very few benefits to trade during the extended-hours sessions. Thus, my findings suggest that the extended-hours trading has a structural weakness which causes illiquidity during the session and lowers price efficiency and price stability during the regular-hour session. However, I find that the implementation of the pre-market session is far more beneficial than that of the after-hours session; exceptionally, the implementation of the short-term pre-market session could induce higher price efficiency and higher price stability regardless of the number of market participants during the session.
Cloning, Overexpression, Purification, and Characterization of the Carboxyl-terminal Nucleotide Binding Domain of P-glycoprotein (*)

Multidrug-resistant tumor cells overexpress P-glycoprotein (170 kDa), a member of the ABC (ATP Binding Cassette)-transporter superfamily. P-glycoprotein has been implicated in transport of a broad range of amphiphilic, hydrophobic drugs from tumor cells. The sequence and structural organization of P-glycoprotein, which consists of 12 transmembrane helices and two cytoplasmic nucleotide binding domains, is similar to other ABC-transporters. It is believed that the nucleotide binding domains of various ABC transporters, which have 30-50% sequence identity, play an important role in coupling ATP hydrolysis to the transport process. To allow structure-function studies of the nucleotide binding domains, the carboxyl-terminal nucleotide binding domain (NBD) of Chinese hamster P-glycoprotein has been cloned, overexpressed, and purified both by itself and as a fusion with maltose-binding protein. It has been demonstrated that the carboxyl-terminal NBD, when overexpressed in Escherichia coli in the absence of transmembrane helices, has very low ATPase activity. This suggests that the amino-terminal nucleotide binding domain and possibly interaction with the transmembrane domains may be required for full ATPase activity. It is also consistent with the idea that the ATPase activity of P-glycoprotein is stimulated in the presence of drugs. Circular dichroism spectral analysis and the ability of carboxyl-terminal NBD, both by itself and as a fusion with maltose-binding protein, to bind ATP-agarose beads and P-glycoprotein specific monoclonal antibodies suggests that the polypeptide folds into a functional domain. Gel filtration chromatography and cross-linking studies indicate that the carboxyl-terminal NBD has a tendency to self-associate to form oligomers. It is speculated that the carboxyl-terminal NBD may play a role in self-association of P-glycoprotein molecules in the plasma membrane.
Hematologic and Biochemistry Reference Values for the Endangered Riparian Brush Rabbit (Sylvilagus Bachmani Riparius)

The objective of this study was to establish reference hematologic and biochemistry values for adult riparian brush rabbits (Sylvilagus bachmani riparius). Between February 2002 and December 2003, complete blood cell counts and serum biochemistry panels were done on blood samples collected for 252 healthy, adult riparian brush rabbits that were bred in captivity and released to the wild in the California, USA, San Joaquin Valley. Significant differences in mean values of some analytes were found among males, nonpregnant females, and pregnant females and among seasons. However, when reference values for each subgroup (sex, pregnancy status, and season) were compared with reference values for all riparian rabbits combined, differences were not sufficiently relevant clinically to warrant the adoption of separate subgroup-specific reference values. The reference ranges reported herein will be of value to veterinarians and wildlife biologists assessing the health of riparian brush rabbits and other wild Sylvilagus species.
Constitutive Activation of the Transcription Factor NF-κB Results in Impaired Borna Disease Virus Replication

ABSTRACT The inducible transcription factor NF-κB is commonly activated upon RNA virus infection and is a key player in the induction and regulation of the innate immune response. Borna disease virus (BDV) is a neurotropic negative-strand RNA virus, which replicates in the nucleus of the infected cell and causes a persistent infection that can lead to severe neurological disorders. To investigate the activation and function of NF-κB in BDV-infected cells, we stably transfected the highly susceptible neuronal guinea pig cell line CRL with a constitutively active (IKK EE) or dominant-negative (IKK KD) regulator of the IKK/NF-κB signaling pathway. While BDV titers were not affected in cells with impaired NF-κB signaling, the expression of an activated mutant of IκB kinase (IKK) resulted in a strong reduction in the intracellular viral titer in CRL cells. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays and luciferase reporter gene assays revealed that neither NF-κB nor interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) were activated upon acute BDV infection of wild-type or vector-transfected CRL cells. However, when IKK EE-transfected cells were used as target cells for BDV infection, DNA binding to an IRF3/7-responsive DNA element was detectable. Since IRF3/7 is a key player in the antiviral interferon response, our data indicate that enhanced NF-κB activity in the presence of BDV leads to the induction of antiviral pathways resulting in reduced virus titers. Consistent with this observation, the anti-BDV activity of NF-κB preferentially spread to areas of the brains of infected rats where activated NF-κB was not detectable.
[Factors associated with resistance to human immunodeficiency virus protease inhibitors].

BACKGROUND To assess the risk factors associated with genotypic resistance to protease inhibitors (PI) in HIV-infected subjects with virologic failure despite highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). PATIENTS AND METHOD Retrospective chart review including 47 consecutive patients with virologic failure despite PI-based HAART who had undergone a genotypic HIV-1 testing. The prevalence of genotypic resistance to PI was determined and several demographic, clinical and laboratory variables were compared between patients with and without genotypic resistance to those drugs. RESULTS The entire nucleotide sequence of the protease gene was obtained in 43 of the 47 patients; 18 of them had genotypic resistance to PI. Genotypic resistance to PI was associated with a previous therapy with suboptimal antiretroviral regimens (OR = 10.2; 95% CI, 1.05-245.1; P = 0.02), duration of antiretroviral therapy longer than 18 months (OR = 13.3; 95% CI, 1.23-340.85; P = 0.01), greater number of antiretroviral regimens and drugs before the virologic failure (p < 0.01) and presence of the 184V mutation in the reverse transcriptase gene (OR = 5.6; 95% CI, 1.2-29.2; P = 0.02). There was no relationship between PI resistance and the risk group, viral load or CD4 cell count. In the multivariate analysis, previous therapy with suboptimal antiretroviral regimens was the better predictor of PI resistance (OR = 11.1; 95% CI, 1.04-117.47; P = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS Patients treated with suboptimal antiretroviral activity regimens before starting HAART can be at greater risk of developing genotypic resistance to protease inhibitors.
A Therapist‐Assisted Internet‐Based CBT Intervention for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Preliminary Results

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating mental health condition frequently associated with psychiatric comorbidity and diminished quality of life, and it typically follows a chronic, often lifelong, course. Previous research has shown that trauma‐related psychopathology (but not necessarily clinical PTSD) can be effectively treated via the Internet. This study is the first of its kind to report on the online treatment of patients with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fourth edition) clinical diagnosis of PTSD with therapist support by e‐mail only. Preliminary findings are presented of an open trial involving a 10‐week Internet‐based therapist‐assisted cognitive behavioural treatment for PTSD (PTSD Online). Pre and posttreatment measures of PTSD and related symptomatology were compared for 16 participants with a variety of trauma experiences. Participants showed clinically significant reductions in PTSD severity and symptomatology, moderate tolerance of the program content, and high therapeutic alliance ratings. No significant change was found on measures of more general psychological symptoms. The results suggest that PTSD Online appears to be an effective and accessible clinical treatment for people with a confirmed PTSD diagnosis.