bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR-1202 functions as a tumor suppressor in glioma cells by targeting Rab1A
Authors: Quan Yu , Song Qian , Wang Jvbo , Zhao Lingyu , Lv Jian , Gong Shouping
Published: April 2017

Aberrant expression of microRNAs correlates with the development and progression of human cancers by targeting downstream proteins. MiR-1202 is downregulated in ovarian cancer and clear cell papillary renal cell carcinoma; however, its role in glioma remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the expression and the role of miR-1202 and to elucidate its regulatory mechanism in glioma. We used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to measure miR-1202 expression in both glioma tissues and cell lines. The findings showed that the miR-1202 expression decreased dramatically in clinical glioma tissues and cell lines, and miR-1202 expression was inversely correlated with the expression of Rab1A. Using bioinformatics and luciferase reporter assays, we identified Rab1A as a novel and direct target of miR-1202. In vitro, overexpression of miR-1202 inhibited glioma cell proliferation and induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis through targeting Rab1A, whereas suppression of miR-1202 promoted cell proliferation and inhibited endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis. Similarly, silencing Rab1A with small interfering RNA also suppressed glioma cell growth and induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis. Taken together, our data indicate that miR-1202 suppresses proliferation and induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis through targeting and inhibiting Rab1A in glioma cells. These results suggest miR-1202 as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of glioma patients.
ATP citrate lyase is increased in human breast cancer, depletion of which promotes apoptosis
Authors: Wang Diyu , Yin Lei , Wei Jinrong , Yang Zhixue , Jiang Guoqin
Published: April 2017

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that is harmful to women’s health around the world. Investigating the biological mechanism is, therefore, of pivotal importance to improve patients’ prognoses. Compared to non-neoplastic tissues, enhanced glucose and lipid metabolism is one of the most common properties of malignant breast cancer. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) citrate lyase is a key enzyme linking aerobic glycolysis and fatty acid synthesis and is of high biological and prognostic significance in breast cancer. In our clinical study, fresh clinical tissues were used to analyze ATP citrate lyase expression by western blotting, and paraffin archived samples from 62 breast cancer patients were used to analyze ATP citrate lyase expression by immunohistochemistry. In the cellular study, following small interfering RNA–mediated inhibition of ATP citrate lyase in MCF-7 cells, cell viability and apoptosis were measured using the Cell Counting Kit-8 and flow cytometry, respectively. Breast cancer tissues showed strong expression of ATP citrate lyase, whereas adjacent normal tissues showed weak expression. Silencing of endogenous ATP citrate lyase expression by small interfering RNA in MCF-7 cells suppressed cell viability and increased cell apoptosis. Collectively, our study revealed that expression of ATP citrate lyase was significantly increased in breast cancer tissue compared with normal tissue. In addition, we found that depletion of ATP citrate lyase suppressed tumor growth, which suggests that ATP citrate lyase–related inhibitors might be potential therapeutic approaches for breast cancer.
LowNKD1expression predicts adverse prognosis in cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhou Jing-dong , Yao Dong-ming , Han Li , Xiao Gao-fei , Guo Hong , Zhang Ting-juan , Li Xi-xi , Yuan Qian , Yang Lei , Lin Jiang , Qian Jun
Published: April 2017

Dysregulation of NKD1 has been identified in several solid tumors. However, the status of NKD1 expression and its clinical implication in acute myeloid leukemia remain largely elusive. NKD1 transcript level in bone marrow mononuclear cells was detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in 126 de novo acute myeloid leukemia patients and 30 controls. Clinical significance of NKD1 expression was obtained by the comparison between the patients with low and high NKD1 expression. NKD1 messenger RNA level was significantly decreased in acute myeloid leukemia patients compared with controls ( p = 0.019). There were no significant differences between patients with low and high NKD1 expression in sex, age, peripheral blood cells, bone marrow blasts, French–American–British/World Health Organization subtypes, and karyotypes/karyotypic classifications ( p > 0.05). Although no significant difference was observed in complete remission rate between NKD1lowand NKD1highpatients ( p > 0.05), Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that NKD1lowpatients showed shorter overall survival time than NKD1highpatients in whole-cohort acute myeloid leukemia, non-M3 acute myeloid leukemia, and cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia ( p = 0.014, 0.063, and 0.020). Multivariate analyses disclosed the low NKD1 expression was an independent risk factor in cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia patients (hazard ratio = 0.397, p = 0.017). Moreover, the prognostic value of NKD1 expression was confirmed by gene expression profile data in cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia patients ( p = 0.028 and 0.011). NKD1 showed significantly increased level after induction chemotherapy achieved complete remission in follow-up paired acute myeloid leukemia patients ( p < 0.001). These findings indicated that reduced NKD1 expression is associated with unfavorable clinical outcome in cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia.
ALDH1A3 correlates with luminal phenotype in prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Shangqian , Liang Chao , Bao Meiling , Li Xiao , Zhang Lei , Li Shuang , Qin Chao , Shao Pengfei , Li Jie , Hua Lixin , Wang Zengjun
Published: April 2017

Prostate cancer is the most common male malignancies in the United States. The specific characteristics of different disease stages have been deeply investigated. We present our data on ALDH1A3 as a potential therapeutic target for the prostate cancer based on several functional investigations. Also, we used The Cancer Genome Atlas datasets for primary prostate cancer to detect the relevance of ALDH1A3 and prostate cancer luminal phenotype. We found that ALDH1A3 correlated with androgen receptor signaling pathway in primary prostate cancer, which is consistent with its luminal layer localization. Then, from the genetic manipulation assay, we knocked out the ALDH1A3 in PC-3 cells and found significantly reduced proliferation rate as well as the invasion ability. Furthermore, we looked up our single center primary prostate cancer post-operative follow-up data and suggested that the high level ALDH1A3 expression could predict the poor progression-free survival in a 158-patient cohort. We concluded that ALDH1A3, localized in luminal layer in prostate epithelium, is highly expressed in prostate cancer. It played important role in maintaining the proliferation, invasion, and cell cycle. It can also become the potential biomarker in the future to guide the therapeutic manipulations for primary prostate cancer.
Theoretical and experimental study on vibration control of flexible manipulator based on internal resonance
Authors: Bian Yushu , Gao Zhihui , Lv Xin , Fan Ming
Published: April 2017

Theoretical and experimental studies are conducted to control nonlinear vibration of a two-link flexible manipulator via internal resonance. A vibration control method is proposed and an effective vibration absorber is implemented based on a servomotor to establish a 2:1 internal resonance relationship with the flexible manipulator. By way of perturbation analysis, it is proven that internal resonance can be successfully established for the flexible manipulator undergoing rigid motion. In the presence of damping, the vibration energy of the flexible manipulator can be transferred to and dissipated by the vibration absorber via internal resonance. Numerical simulations and experimental investigation have verified the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method.
On accelerated random vibration testing of product based on component acceleration RMS–life curve
Authors: Wang Zhi-Wei , Wang Li-Jun
Published: April 2017

Accelerated random vibration testing is usually used to certify a product in random vibration environments. The current certification method is based on the inverse power law and is strictly valid only for Basquin’s type of damage and fatigue of materials. Based on the response spectrum analysis of the product in “the simply scaled accelerated vibrations” and taking the size of acceleration power spectral densities (PSD) the component is undergoing as an index to characterize and compare the damage of the component in different experiments, this paper develops a more practical method in engineering for accelerated random vibration testing of the product in the framework of linear random vibration theory and the rule of acceleration root mean square (RMS)–life curve of the component. The suggested method shows that the time scale is determined by the zero-th and second-order response acceleration spectral moments of the component in real vibration and that simulated in the laboratory, which demonstrates its potential value and advantage in practical application when compared with that based on the von Mises equivalent stress. Simplifications of the method are discussed in detail. In “the simply scaled accelerated vibrations”, the time scale is determined by the acceleration root mean square of the component in real or simulated vibration. It is coincident with the form reported by Allegri but having different physical significance in the case of Basquin’s type of damage and fatigue of the component. The validation experiment with a desk computer was carried out, leading to the verification of the present method.
The acoustic characterization of green materials
Authors: Iannace Gino
Published: April 2017

Natural materials are a valid alternative to traditional synthetic materials in the fields of acoustic treatments and energy saving. Natural fibres have been used to produce sound-absorbing panels. This article reports the acoustical characterization of the following natural fibres: straw, hay, plant litter and different sized wood chips. The acoustic measurements were carried out with an impedance tube. The acoustic absorption values were measured in a frequency range between 200 and 2000 Hz.
Measurement of uranium and radon concentration in drinking water samples and assessment of ingestion dose to local population in Jalandhar district of Punjab, India
Authors: Kumar Manish , Kaushal Anjali , Sahoo B. K. , Sarin Amit , Mehra Rohit , Jakhu Rajan , Bhalla Atul , Sharma Navjeet
Published: April 2017

A study was conducted to assess the concentration of uranium and dissolved radon in drinking water samples collected from Jalandhar district of Punjab, India. The samples were analysed for dissolved radon using scintillation cell method. Laser fluorimetry was used for measurement of uranium concentration. Correlation analysis of radon and uranium concentrations and salinity and total dissolved solids with uranium was carried out. The uranium concentration in water samples varied from a minimum value of 1.53 ± 0.06 mg m−3 to 50.2 ± 0.08 mg m−3 with a geometric mean value of 14.85 mg m−3. The radon concentration in water varied from a minimum value of 0.34 ± 0.07 kBq m−3 to a maximum value of 3.84 ± 0.48 kBq m−3 with a geometric mean value of 1.46 kBq m−3. Ingestion dose to local population, due to radon and uranium in drinking water, for different age categories, was computed and results are being reported in this paper.
‘Mmm … I love it, bro!’: Performances of masculinity in YouTube gaming
Authors: Maloney Marcus , Roberts Steven , Caruso Alexandra
Published: April 2017

Despite being ubiquitous and embedded in everyday life, ‘the centrality of the Internet is still under-theorized in much masculinities research’. Contributing to the knowledge base in this area, here we place under the microscope the performance of hetero-masculinities undertaken by the three most popular YouTube gaming vloggers in 2015–2016: PewDiePie, VanossGaming and Sky Does Minecraft. The focus of this article thus sits at the intersection of YouTube vlogging and gaming cultures, a site that is of particular sociological interest given the latter’s associations with the (re)production and function of hegemonic masculinity. In examining the performances and constructions of gender by male gamers on YouTube, our research adds to the growing body of work highlighting the emergence of increasing levels of complexity in the construction of contemporary masculine identities.
Fabrication of polyethylene-based surface composite reinforced by carbon nano-tube and nano-clay through friction stir processing
Authors: Rostamiyan Yasser , Zaferani Meysam
Published: April 2017

In the present work, friction stir processing has been utilized to fabricate in situ polymer surface hybrid composite. The surface of polyethylene matrix was reinforced by the combination of multi wall carbon nano-tube and nano-clay powders. Here, L9 Taguchi orthogonal array was used to design the experiment taking into account the effects of tool rotary speed, travel speed, and reinforcement type on tensile strength flexural strength and modulus of electricity. The results showed that both tensile and flexural strengths varied in a similar manner by varying the process factors. Homogeneity in reinforcement, higher value of tool rotary speed (i.e. 1600 r/min), and low value of travel speed (i.e. 40 mm/min) cause appropriate material flow and uniform dispersion of reinforcement in friction stir processed zone. Also, it was shown that the middle value of tool rotary speed (1200 r/min) and travel speed (60 mm/min) along with applying pure nano-clay enhances the elasticity modulus.
The craft of journal practice
Authors: Shaw Ian F
Published: April 2017

This article reflects on journal practices in a study of The British Journal of Social Work conducted as a multiple method historical case study, focussing on the first 40 years of the journal. What constitutes a journal’s identity is slippery. Broadly speaking, there are those practices that are located primarily within the immediate creation of volume upon volume, and there are practices through which the journal interacts with those worlds that touch on its boundaries. Editorial appointments, editors’ visions, the work of reviewers, and the infrastructure of technology are all located fairly close to the journal’s day-to-day practice. In this article, the focus is on these comparatively internal practices. This includes becoming a British Journal of Social Work editor; doing the job; reviewers and reviewing; editorial judgement; and technology. We gained a strong sense of continuity in terms, for example, of how those to whom we spoke understood the journal’s identity, and managing editorial succession. There were tensions – perhaps essential – manifested in the deployment of rhetorical arguments and pleas. But while calculated to persuade, the ebb and flow of rhetorical issues are no less about substance and realities.
Catalyzing Implementation of Evidence-Based Interventions in Safety Net Settings: A Clinical–Community Partnership in South Los Angeles
Authors: Payán Denise D. , Sloane David C. , Illum Jacqueline , Vargas Roberto B. , Lee Donzella , Galloway-Gilliam Lark , Lewis LaVonna B.
Published: April 2017

This study is a process evaluation of a clinical–community partnership that implemented evidence-based interventions in clinical safety net settings. Adoption and implementation of evidence-based interventions in these settings can help reduce health disparities by improving the quality of clinical preventive services in health care settings with underserved populations. A clinical–community partnership model is a possible avenue to catalyze adoption and implementation of interventions amid organizational barriers to change. Three Federally Qualified Health Centers in South Los Angeles participated in a partnership led by a local community-based organization (CBO) to implement hypertension interventions. Qualitative research methods were used to evaluate intervention selection and implementation processes between January 2014 and June 2015. Data collection tools included a key participant interview guide, health care provider interview guide, and protocol for taking meeting minutes. This case study demonstrates how a CBO acted as an external facilitator and employed a collaborative partnership model to catalyze implementation of evidence-based interventions in safety net settings. The study phases observed included initiation, planning, and implementation. Three emergent categories of organizational facilitators and barriers were identified (personnel capacity, professional development capacity, and technological capacity). Key participants and health care providers expressed a high level of satisfaction with the collaborative and the interventions, respectively. The CBO’s role as a facilitator and catalyst is a replicable model to promote intervention adoption and implementation in safety net settings. Key lessons learned are provided for researchers and practitioners interested in partnering with Federally Qualified Health Centers to implement health promotion interventions.
Subarachnoid and intraperitoneal hemorrhage secondary to segmental arterial mediolysis: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Welch Brian T , Brinjikji Waleed , Stockland Andrew H , Lanzino Giuseppe
Published: April 2017

Background

Segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM) is an uncommon or underdiagnosed arteriopathy that presents with life-threatening hemorrhage. SAM can affect the intracranial, spinal, and visceral arteries, with reported cases of concomitant intracranial and visceral hemorrhage.

Case description

We present the case of a 61-year-old male with concurrent subarachnoid and intraperitoneal hemorrhage caused by simultaneously bleeding posterior spinal artery and splenic artery pseudoaneurysms. The posterior spinal artery pseudoaneurysms were treated with selective injection of polyvinyl alcohol particles into the posterior spinal artery, while the splenic artery pseudoaneurysm was treated with Gelfoam embolization. The constellation of imaging, clinical, and laboratory features led to a presumptive diagnosis of SAM, which remains the only reported cause of concurrent neurovascular and visceral artery aneurysm rupture.

Conclusion

SAM is a key diagnostic consideration in cases of concomitant intracranial, spinal, and visceral artery aneurysm rupture.
Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations: Telestroke Best Practice Guidelines Update 2017
Authors: Blacquiere Dylan , Lindsay M Patrice , Foley Norine , Taralson Colleen , Alcock Susan , Balg Catherine , Bhogal Sanjit , Cole Julie , Eustace Marsha , Gallagher Patricia , Ghanem Antoinette , Hoechsmann Alexander , Hunter Gary , Khan Khurshid , Marrero Alier , Moses Brian , Rayner Kelley , Samis Andrew , Smitko Elisabeth , Vibe Marilyn , Gubitz Gord , Dowlatshahi Dariush , Phillips Stephen , Silver Frank L
Published: April 2017

Every year, approximately 62,000 people with stroke and transient ischemic attack are treated in Canadian hospitals. The 2016 update of the Canadian Stroke Best Practice Recommendations Telestroke guideline is a comprehensive summary of current evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations appropriate for use by all healthcare providers and system planners who organize and provide care to patients following stroke across a broad range of settings. These recommendations focus on the use of telemedicine technologies to rapidly identify and treat appropriate patients with acute thrombolytic therapies in hospitals without stroke specialized expertise; select patients who require to immediate transfer to stroke centers for Endovascular Therapy; and for the patients who remain in community hospitals to facilitate their care on a stroke unit and provide remote access to stroke prevention and rehabilitation services. While these latter areas of Telestroke application are newer, they are rapidly developing, with new opportunities that are yet unrealized. Virtual rehabilitation therapies offer patients the opportunity to participate in rehabilitation therapies, supervised by physical and occupational therapists. While not without its limitations (e.g., access to telecommunications in remote areas, fragmentation of care), the evidence-to-date sets the foundation for improving access to care and management for patients during both the acute phase and now through post stroke recovery.
Sex differences in the pro-inflammatory cytokine response to endotoxin unfold in vivo but not ex vivo in healthy humans
Authors: Wegner Alexander , Benson Sven , Rebernik Laura , Spreitzer Ingo , Jäger Marcus , Schedlowski Manfred , Elsenbruch Sigrid , Engler Harald
Published: April 2017

Clinical data indicate that inflammatory responses differ across sexes, but the mechanisms remain elusive. Herein, we assessed in vivo and ex vivo cytokine responses to bacterial endotoxin in healthy men and women to elucidate the role of systemic and cellular factors underlying sex differences in inflammatory responses. Participants received an i.v. injection of low-dose endotoxin (0.4 ng/kg body mass), and plasma TNF-α and IL-6 responses were analyzed over a period of 6 h. In parallel, ex vivo cytokine production was measured in endotoxin-stimulated blood samples obtained immediately before in vivo endotoxin administration. As glucocorticoids (GCs) play an important role in the negative feedback regulation of the inflammatory response, we additionally analyzed plasma cortisol concentrations and ex vivo GC sensitivity of cytokine production. Results revealed greater in vivo pro-inflammatory responses in women compared with men, with significantly higher increases in plasma TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations. In addition, the endotoxin-induced rise in plasma cortisol was more pronounced in women. In contrast, no sex differences in ex vivo cytokine production and GC sensitivity were observed. Together, these findings demonstrate major differences in in vivo and ex vivo responses to endotoxin and underscore the importance of systemic factors underlying sex differences in the inflammatory response.
Impact on Diabetes Self-Management and Glycemic Control of a New Color-Based SMBG Meter
Authors: Schnell Oliver , Klausmann Gerd , Gutschek Bettina , Garcia-Verdugo Rosa Maria , Hummel Michael
Published: April 2017

Background:

Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is a key pillar of personal diabetes management. The objective of this observational study was to analyze diabetes self-management (DSM) and glycemic outcomes before and during system implementation in real-life settings of a blood glucose meter system with a color-coded display of glucose levels, which helps identify out-of-range levels.

Methods:

A total of 193 insulin-treated diabetes patients (11% T1DM; 55% male, age 60 ± 4 years, mean diabetes duration 14 ± 9 years, HbA1c 8.68 ± 1.2%) were enrolled into the study. Both the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ) and glycemic control were analyzed at baseline and 3 and 6 months after study initiation.

Results:

DSMQ general perception improved significantly by the end of the study period (“Sum Scale,” P < .05). Moreover, after 6 months patient’s attitudes on self-care (Q16, P = .0046) and nutrition (“Dietary Control,” P = .004) showed significant improvements. Use of the blood glucose meter resulted in improved glycemic control, as shown by mean HbA1c levels, which decreased from 8.68 ± 1.2% at baseline to 8.13 ± 1.02% after 3 months ( P < .0001) and to 7.9 ± 1.1% at 6 months ( P < .0001). Both patients and diabetes educators agreed in the advantages of the color-coded indicator and on its helpfulness in assisting patients on their diabetes management, as drawn from the results of the self-reported satisfaction questionnaire.

Conclusion:

This real-world study demonstrates that SMBG implemented via this new blood glucose meter not only leads to an improvement in metabolic control, but also is associated with a significant improvement in diabetes management.
Serum magnesium concentration is independently associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Eshraghian Ahad , Nikeghbalian Saman , Geramizadeh Bita , Malek-Hosseini Seyed Ali
Published: April 2017

Background

The pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been well recognized yet.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the association between serum magnesium concentration and NAFLD.

Methods

Study participants were healthy individuals who had undergone liver biopsies between January 2012 and August 2015 as a routine pre-transplant check-up before living donor liver transplantation. Liver biopsy specimens were evaluated by an expert pathologist regarding presence of hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis. Serum magnesium concentration was measured and compared in those with normal liver biopsy and those with steatosis and steatohepatitis.

Results

A total of 226 individuals were included. Eighty-two individuals (36.2%) had hepatic steatosis and 22 (9.7%) individuals had steatohepatitis and steatosis in their liver histology. Lower serum magnesium concentration was independently associated with hepatic steatosis (OR: 0.059; 95% CI: 0.011–0.325, p = 0.001). Serum magnesium concentration was independently associated with steatohepatitis compared to those without steatohepatitis (1.80 ± 0.48 mg/dl and 2.18 ± 0.31 mg/dl) (OR: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.02–0.41, p = 0.001). Serum magnesium concentration was significantly lower in individuals with steatohepatitis (1.80 ± 0.48 mg/dl) compared to individuals without steatosis (2.23 ± 0.31 mg/dl, p < 0.001) and individuals with only steatosis (2.07 ± 0.29 mg/dl, p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Serum magnesium concentration is independently associated with hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis in our study population.
Testing the Efficacy of a Kindergarten Mathematics Intervention by Small Group Size
Authors: Clarke Ben , Doabler Christian T. , Kosty Derek , Kurtz Nelson Evangeline , Smolkowski Keith , Fien Hank , Turtura Jessica
Published: April 2017

This study used a randomized controlled trial design to investigate the ROOTS curriculum, a 50-lesson kindergarten mathematics intervention. Ten ROOTS-eligible students per classroom ( n = 60) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: a ROOTS five-student group, a ROOTS two-student group, and a no-treatment control group. Two primary research questions were investigated as part of this study: What was the overall impact of the treatment (the ROOTS intervention) as compared with the control (business as usual)? Was there a differential impact on student outcomes between the two treatment conditions (two- vs. five-student group)? Initial analyses for the first research question indicated a significant impact on three outcomes and positive but nonsignificant impacts on three additional measures. Results for the second research question, comparing the two- and five-student groups, indicated negligible and nonsignificant differences. Implications for practice are discussed.
Caste and Politics in West Bengal: Traditional Limitations and Contemporary Developments
Authors: Guha Ayan
Published: April 2017

Caste played a very marginal role in the politics of Left-ruled West Bengal. Due to the tendency of the Left Front to view politics solely through the prism of class, the field of political contestation was structured and configured in a manner that caste was robbed of its political possibilities. Today, the electoral decline of the Left has given rise to increasing speculation regarding the enhanced scope of caste-based mobilization. In this connection, this article seeks to understand whether the electoral decline of the Left has brought about in the existing socio-political configuration any fundamental change that can facilitate the rise of caste at the big stage of electoral politics. The investigation, attempted by this article in this context, reveals that the traditional limitations unfavourable to caste-based political mobilization largely continue in the same form. It may apparently seem that the electoral decline of the Left has created a perfect ground for caste-based identity politics to flourish, but the sustained assertion of caste identity is still beset by the traditional structural constraints due to the unaltered socio-political dynamics. As a result, the developments which a few years ago raised hopes about political incarnation of caste have largely petered out.
Caste, Wealth and Regional Inequalities in Health Status of Women and Children in India
Authors: Jungari Suresh , Chauhan Bal Govind
Published: April 2017

Since time unmemorable, the caste system has been prevalent in Indian society. It has deeply developed roots in human minds, which leads to income inequality in the country. In the era of globalization and privatization, inequalities have extended to a large extent, which in turn has serious consequences for women and children’s health. In this article, an attempt has been made to understand the Caste, Income and Regional inequalities as determinants of health of women and children. For this study, the data are derived from the National Family Health Survey III conducted during 2005–2006. Bivariate and regression analysis has been done to understand the likelihood of health status of women and child in different categories. The results show that the scheduled tribes and schedule castes having poor wealth quintile and northern Indian women and children are at a greater disadvantage in all indicators of women and child health as compared to other groups.
Aspects of Mobilizations of Dalits in Bihar (1913–1952)
Authors: Patel Hitendra K.
Published: April 2017

This article seeks to prepare an account of political activism of Dalits in Bihar during the years between 1913, when Dalits started to raise their voice through caste associations, and 1952, when the first election took place in Independent India. In between these years, there were various social campaigns, like the anti-untouchability campaign by a determined Congress under Gandhi, which faced stiff challenges from the orthodox sections of the caste-Hindu society. In the absence of a Dalit ideological campaign which was the case in some other parts of India under the inspiring leadership of Ambedkar, these efforts had a crucial role in raising Dalit issues, campaigning for the social rights of them and resisting the orthodox voices that were unwilling to respond favourably to these campaigns. The resistances of orthodox sections, however, failed to stop Dalit issues from being raised. This article argues that the Dalits of Bihar remained with Congress with high hopes till 1952. During this period, Dalit leaders from Bihar such as Jagjivan Ram and Jaglal Chaudhary had been trying to put pressure on the Congress leadership with (what they considered) legitimate and reasonable demands of Dalits. They believed that Congress represented the mainstream political space and that any development of Dalits could be possible only if along with attempts to raise the sense of unity among different Dalit castes, the efforts were made to impress upon the well-intentioned great national leaders of the country.
Towards an Integrative Understanding of ‘Authenticity’ of Cultural Heritage: An Analysis of World Heritage Site Designations in the Asian Context
Authors: Lawless Julie Williams , Silva Kapila D.
Published: April 2017

In the World Heritage Sites (WHS) designation, it is required to define the conditions that ‘authenticate’ the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of heritage sites. Initially, the notion of authenticity had been understood as an objective and measurable attribute inherent in the material fabric of sites. This perspective overlooked the fact that authenticity of a place is also culturally constructed, contextually variable and observer dependent. In 1994, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) introduced a set of attributes that facilitate a holistic understanding of authenticity of heritage sites which considers both tangible and intangible aspects of heritage together. To find out the extent to which this holistic understanding of authenticity is currently applied in the WHS designations, we analyzed nomination dossiers of 31 sites from the Asian context that were designated as World Heritage between 2005 and 2014. The findings point towards the continuing need to apply systematic, holistic and integrative perspectives of authenticity standards to heritage sites.
TALKING POINT Whose Inheritance?
Authors: Sheikh Gulammohammed
Published: April 2017

The visual culture forming part of India’s ‘inheritances’ is staggering in scale, diversity and range. However, we need further comprehensive documentation, publications, and innovative steps like museums devoted to ‘heritage’ and popular visual cultures etc., and a national archive of heritage monuments, accessible to all. Further, while sites and art belonging to ancient and medieval times get attention other periods, like treasures of the nineteenth century, are often overlooked.

In part, the social mind-set and attitude towards art reinforced by an imbalanced system of education, is to blame. Art is equated with hobby or entertainment, and rarely with vocation or profession. There is also a clear division between verbal and visual cultures. Most educated people are brought up on verbal cultures; a few respond to performing arts and only a fraction are visually literate. A people’s movement for a cultural resurgence free of chauvinistic objectives is required. Such a movement could counter the consumerism and brutalization that seems to have swept the minds of a growing generation. It could be a national agenda.
Associations of α-thalassemia and BCL11A with stroke in Nigerian, United States, and United Kingdom sickle cell anemia cohorts
Authors: Saraf Santosh L. , Akingbola Titilola S. , Shah Binal N. , Ezekekwu Chinedu A. , Sonubi Omowunmi , Zhang Xu , Hsu Lewis L. , Gladwin Mark T. , Machado Roberto F. , Cooper Richard S. , Gordeuk Victor R. , Tayo Bamidele O.
Published: April 2017

Key Points

A genetic risk profile integrating α-thalassemia and BCL11A status improves associations with hemolytic markers and stroke history.
Feature extraction for robust physical activity recognition
Authors: Zhu Jiadong , San-Segundo Rubén , Pardo José M.
Published: April 2017

This paper presents the development of a Human Activity Recognition (HAR) system that uses a network of nine inertial measurement units situated in different body parts. Every unit provides 3D (3-dimension) acceleration, 3D angular velocity, 3D magnetic field orientation, and 4D quaternions. This system identifies 33 different physical activities (walking, running, cycling, lateral elevation of arms, etc.). The system is composed of two main modules: a feature extractor for obtaining the most relevant characteristics from the inertial signals every second, and a machine learning algorithm for classifying between the different activities. This paper focuses on the feature extractor module, evaluating several types of features and proposing different normalization approaches. This paper also analyses the performance of every sensor included in the inertial measurement units. The main experiments have been done using a public available dataset named REALDISP Activity Recognition dataset. This dataset includes recordings from 17 subjects performing 33 different activities in three different scenarios. Final results demonstrate that the proposed HAR system significantly improves the classification accuracy compared to previous works on this dataset. For the best configuration, the system accuracy is 99.1%. This system has been also evaluated with the OPPORTUNITY dataset obtaining competitive results.
Wave propagation in a transversely isotropic microstretch elastic solid
Authors: Singh Baljeet , Goyal Manisha
Published: April 2017

Background

The theory of microstretch elastic bodies was first developed by Eringen (1971, 1990, 1999, 2004). This theory was developed by extending the theory of micropolar elastcity. Each material point in this theory has three deformable directors.

Methods

The governing equations of a transversely isotropic microstretch material are specialized in x-z plane. Plane wave solutions of these governing equations results into a bi-quadratic velocity equation. The four roots of the velocity equation correspond to four coupled plane waves which are named as Coupled Longitudinal Displacement (CLD) wave, Coupled Longitudinal Microstretch (CLM) wave, Coupled Transverse Displacement (CTD) wave and Coupled Transverse Microrotational (CTM) wave. The reflection of Coupled Longitudinal Displacement (CLD) wave is considered at a stress-free surface of half-space of material. The appropriate displacement components, microrotation component and microstretch potential for incident and four reflected waves in half-space are formulated. These solutions for incident and reflected waves satisfy the boundary conditions at a stress free surface of half-space and we obtain a non-homogeneous system of four equations in four reflection coefficients (or amplitude ratios) along with Snell’s law for the present model.

Results

The speeds of plane waves are computed by Fortran program of bi-quadratic velocity equation for relevant physical constants of the material. The reflection coefficients of various reflected waves are also computed by Fortran program of Gauss elimination method. The speeds of plane waves are plotted against angle of propagation direction with vertical axis. The reflection coefficients of various reflected waves are plotted against the angle of incidence. These variations of speeds and reflection coefficients are also compared with those in absence of microstretch parameters.

Conclusions

For a specific material, numerical simulation in presence as well as in absence of microstretch shows that the coupled longitudinal displacement (CLD) wave is fastest wave and the coupled transverse microrotational (CTM) is observed slowest wave. The coupled longitudinal microstretch (CLM) wave is an additional wave due to the presence of microstretch in the medium. The presence of microstretch in transversely isotropic micropolar elastic solid affects the speeds of plane waves and the amplitude ratios of various reflected waves.

Mathematics Subject Classification

74J
Development of organoids from mouse and human endometrium showing endometrial epithelium physiology and long-term expandability
Authors: Boretto Matteo , Cox Benoit , Noben Manuel , Hendriks Nikolai , Fassbender Amelie , Roose Heleen , Amant Frédéric , Timmerman Dirk , Tomassetti Carla , Vanhie Arne , Meuleman Christel , Ferrante Marc , Vankelecom Hugo
Published: April 2017

The endometrium, which is of crucial importance for reproduction, undergoes dynamic cyclic tissue remodeling. Knowledge of its molecular and cellular regulation is poor, primarily owing to a lack of study models. Here, we have established a novel and promising organoid model from both mouse and human endometrium. Dissociated endometrial tissue, embedded in Matrigel under WNT-activating conditions, swiftly formed organoid structures that showed long-term expansion capacity, and reproduced the molecular and histological phenotype of the tissue's epithelium. The supplemented WNT level determined the type of mouse endometrial organoids obtained: high WNT yielded cystic organoids displaying a more differentiated phenotype than the dense organoids obtained in low WNT. The organoids phenocopied physiological responses of endometrial epithelium to hormones, including increased cell proliferation under estrogen and maturation upon progesterone. Moreover, the human endometrial organoids replicated the menstrual cycle under hormonal treatment at both the morpho-histological and molecular levels. Together, we established an organoid culture system for endometrium, reproducing tissue epithelium physiology and allowing long-term expansion. This novel model provides a powerful tool for studying mechanisms underlying the biology as well as the pathology of this key reproductive organ.
Gap junction structure: unraveled, but not fully revealed
Authors: Beyer Eric C. , Berthoud Viviana M.
Published: April 2017

Gap junction channels facilitate the intercellular exchange of ions and small molecules, a process that is critical for the function of many different kinds of cells and tissues. Recent crystal structures of channels formed by one connexin isoform (connexin26) have been determined, and they have been subjected to molecular modeling. These studies have provided high-resolution models to gain insights into the mechanisms of channel conductance, molecular permeability, and gating. The models share similarities, but there are some differences in the conclusions reached by these studies. Many unanswered questions remain to allow an atomic-level understanding of intercellular communication mediated by connexin26. Because some domains of the connexin polypeptides are highly conserved (like the transmembrane regions), it is likely that some features of the connexin26 structure will apply to other members of the family of gap junction proteins. However, determination of high-resolution structures and modeling of other connexin channels will be required to account for the diverse biophysical properties and regulation conferred by the differences in their sequences.
Functional assessment of the NMDA receptor variant GluN2AR586K
Authors: Marwick Katie F.M. , Parker Peter , Skehel Paul , Hardingham Giles , Wyllie David J.A.
Published: April 2017

Background: The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is an ionotropic glutamate receptor that has important roles in synaptogenesis, synaptic transmission, and synaptic plasticity. Recently, a large number of rare genetic variants have been found in NMDAR subunits in people with neurodevelopmental disorders, and also in healthy individuals. One such is the GluN2AR586K variant (GRIN2AG1757A), found in a person with intellectual disability. Identifying the functional consequences, if any, of such variants allows their potential contribution to pathogenesis to be assessed. Here, we assessed the effect of the GluN2AR586K variant on NMDAR pore properties.

Methods: We expressed recombinant NMDARs with and without the GluN2AR586K variant in Xenopus laevis oocytes and in primary cultured mouse neurons, and made electrophysiological recordings assessing Mg2+ block, single-channel conductance, mean open time and current density.

Results: The GluN2AR586K variant was not found to influence any of the properties assessed.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest it is unlikely that the GluN2AR586K variant contributes to the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorder.
A Systematic Framework for Multilevel Theorizing in Information Systems Research
Authors: Zhang Meng , Gable Guy G.
Published: April 2017

Information systems (IS) research usually investigates phenomena at one level of analysis at a time. However, complex IS phenomena may be difficult to address from such a single-level perspective. A multilevel perspective offers an alternative means to examine phenomena by simultaneously accounting for multiple levels of analysis. Although useful guidelines for theory development are widely available, they give little specific attention to developing theory that is conceptualized and analyzed at multiple levels. Multilevel theorizing or developing theory from a multilevel perspective is more complex and involves unique challenges. To promote multilevel theorizing in the IS discipline, we focus on addressing challenges involved in multilevel theorizing and propose a holistic framework for systematically developing theory from a multilevel perspective. Drawing from the organization science and IS literature, the proposed framework harmonizes and synthesizes previous guidelines, providing a practical basis for conceptualizing and studying multilevel phenomena.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/isre.2017.0690 .
Communication in end-of-life care for people with dementia: an Admiral Nurse case study
Authors: Moore Angela , Dening Karen Harrison
Published: April 2017

Dementia is largely a disease of old age and many people with a diagnosis of dementia will also have other illnesses or disabilities for which they may be admitted to an acute hospital. However, the lack of recognition of when a person with dementia is nearing the end of their life can pose challenges and may lead to a failure to provide good palliative care. There is a need for effective communication with families who are affected by dementia, from the point of diagnosis through to end of life. Good communication with all parties involved, including discussions about prognosis and advance care planning, is essential to a shared palliative care approach that enables families to have an understanding of the goals of care and to be a part of the decision-making process. This article presents a case study to illustrate the value of good communication in maintaining supportive relationships between professionals and family carers of a person with dementia.
Assessing decision-making capacity: the guiding principles
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: April 2017

In the first of a series of articles on assessing decision making capacity Richard Griffith sets out the statutory principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 that neuroscience nurses must apply in practice
A guide to tuning AFOs and its relevance to stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Green-Buckley Rob , Hamlet Ingrid , Seccombe Steve
Published: April 2017

Brain injuries caused by strokes are a major cause of adult disability, affecting around 110 000 people each year. Provision of ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) post stroke are commonly required due to changes in muscle activity, contractures, and gait deviations. The effectiveness of these devices is dependent on correct prescription and set up. This article will look at types of AFOs available and the importance of tuning AFOs to influence gait and optimise rehabilitation, considering the different parts of the gait cycle and how deviations from this can cause mobility issues.
Addressing child-on-child sex offences: What we can do
Authors: Stannard Jaine
Published: April 2017

In recent years there has been a nearly 80% rise in the number of child-on-child sex offences. Jaine Stannard looks at some of the potential reasons behind this rise and what we can do to help address it.
Nine homes by the age of nine: The housing instability and other challenges faced by poor children
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: April 2017

The preliminary findings from a 3-year research study offer a window into what it is like for children growing up in poverty. From multiple house moves to free school meal stigma, and the often-prohibitive costs of schooling, the report offers crucial insights for education professionals. Pete Henshaw reports
Application of Large Area TiO2 Photoelectrode on Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Nursam Natalia M. , Muliani Lia , Hidayat Jojo
Published: April 2017

The scale-up of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) has been a big issue as the DSSC technology process progresses from laboratory scale to large area applications. Meanwhile, this type of solar cell has been of great interest among PV scientist and academics as it can be produced in lower-cost processes compared to the conventional solar cells which are mostly fabricated from silicon. The fabrication of DSSC prototypes with a relatively large active area of 9x9 cm2 are demonstrated in this paper. Large area of TiO2 surface has been shown to significantly increase the ISC, as well as VOC and Pmax. Nevertheless, deterioration of fill factor (FF) was observed as the result of the increase on series resistance with respect to the increase in the photoelectrode area.