bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interpreting the Disparity in Educational Attainment among Various Socio-religious Groups in India
Authors: Chaudhury Anjan Ray 
Published: January 2017

This study is an attempt to identify the origin of disparity in educational participation and educational achievement among various socio-religious groups in India. To accomplish this objective, we run the logistic model of regression to estimate the differential influences of the monetary returns to education and some personal, household and community-related factors affecting educational decisions of the school-age children across the groups. Then we use the method of inequality decomposition applicable for logit/probit model and decompose the existing inequality in the proportion of educational participation between some pairs of the socio-religious groups into ‘response effect’ and ‘attribute effect’. It is observed that there exists sharp disparity in educational participation among the various groups. A rise in estimated returns enhances the educational decisions of the members of the disadvantaged groups irrespective of their age and levels of education, but it can enhance the educational decisions of the members of the advantaged groups only at the upper end of their school-age. The percentage contribution of the ‘response effect’ of disparity in the rate of educational participation between Hindu-others and Muslims is greater compared to that of the ‘attribute effect’, but the former declines with the rise in the level of education. However, a significant proportion of the disparities in the educational participation between Hindu-others and Hindu-SC, and Hindu-others and Hindu-ST, is attributed to the characteristic differences at all levels of education except the middle.
Prospective study of nonmyeloablative, HLA-mismatched unrelated BMT with high-dose posttransplantation cyclophosphamide
Authors: Kasamon Yvette L. , Ambinder Richard F. , Fuchs Ephraim J. , Zahurak Marianna , Rosner Gary L. , Bolaños-Meade Javier , Levis Mark J. , Gladstone Douglas E. , Huff Carol Ann , Swinnen Lode J. , Matsui William H. , Borrello Ivan , Brodsky Robert A. , Jones Richard J. , Luznik Leo 
Published: January 2017

Key Points
Nonmyeloablative, HLA-mismatched unrelated BMT with high-dose posttransplantation cyclophosphamide carries an acceptable safety profile. This platform may expand the donor pool for patients who lack an HLA-matched or -haploidentical donor.
Improvement of quality of life through glycemic control by liraglutide, a GLP-1 analog, in insulin-naive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: the PAGE1 study
Authors: Ishii Hitoshi , Niiya Tetsuji , Ono Yasuhiro , Inaba Naoyuki , Jinnouchi Hideaki , Watada Hirotaka 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Background
In addition to achieving good glycemic control, diabetes care management aims to improve the quality of life (QOL) in patients. Treatment-associated difficulties and side effects frequently cause deterioration in QOL. Liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is a novel injection drug that promotes insulin secretion. It is a user-friendly, once-daily injection with fewer hypoglycemic events. In this study, we aimed to examine the effect of liraglutide therapy on QOL in patients.

Methods
In total, 304 insulin- and liraglutide-naïve patients with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in this observational study; they received liraglutide therapy for 12 weeks. The main outcome measure was change in QOL from baseline, which was assessed using diabetes therapy-related QOL (DTR-QOL).

Results
At week 12, liraglutide significantly decreased HbA1c levels (8.7 ± 1.5 vs. 7.5 ± 1.3, p < 0.001) and BMI (27.9 ± 5.3 vs. 27.3 ± 5.2, p < 0.001). According to the QOL scores, although the treatment modality had changed from non-injection to injection therapy, liraglutide improved patient satisfaction with treatment. Significant correlations were found between change in HbA1c level and satisfaction with treatment, as well as between change in body weight and burden on social and daily activities, anxiety and dissatisfaction with treatment, and hypoglycemia.

Conclusions
Liraglutide significantly improved glycemic control and reduced the body weight without deteriorating QOL in obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Trial registration UMIN-CTR: UMIN000007159
Updates in understanding the role of cyclophilin A in leukocyte chemotaxis
Authors: Dawar Farman Ullah , Wu Junjie , Zhao Lijuan , Khattak Muhammad Nasir Khan , Mei Jie , Lin Li 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Cyclophilin A (CypA), a well-recognized receptor for anti-inflammatory drug cyclosporine A (CsA) is a ubiquitous and multifunctional protein. Beside the diverse intracellular functions, CypA is secreted against inflammatory stimuli, where it activates and attracts leukocytes via CD147 to the stimulus site. Interestingly, it synergizes with other factors to induce leukocyte migration in different animals. However, the silencing and inhibition of CypA or CD147 inhibits leukocytes chemotaxis and inflammation. This review focuses on the advances made in understanding the mechanism of CypA-dependent leukocytes chemotaxis and hence, recognition of this factor as a possible therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases.
Anesthesia for Ambulatory Pediatric Surgery in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Pilot Study in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kabré Yvette B. , Traoré Idriss S.S. , Kaboré Flavien A.R. , Ki Bertille , Traoré Alain I. , Ouédraogo Isso , Bandré Emile , Wandaogo Albert , Ouédraogo Nazinigouba 
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND:
Long surgical wait times and limited hospital capacity are common obstacles to surgical care in many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Introducing ambulatory surgery might contribute to a solution to these problems. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of introducing ambulatory surgery into a pediatric hospital in SSA.

METHODS:
This is a cross-sectional descriptive study that took place over 6 months. It includes all patients assigned to undergo ambulatory surgery in the Pediatric University Hospital in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Eligibility criteria for the ambulatory surgery program included >1 year of age, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) 1 status, surgery with a low risk of bleeding, lasting <90 minutes, and with an expectation of mild to moderate postoperative pain. The family had to live within 1 hour of the hospital and be available by telephone.

RESULTS:
During the study period, a total of 1250 patients underwent surgery, of whom 515 were elective cases; 115 of these met the criteria for ambulatory surgery; 103 patients, with an average age of 59.74 ± 41.57 months, actually underwent surgery. The principal indications for surgery were inguinal (62) and umbilical (47) hernias. All patients had general anesthesia with halothane. Sixty-five percent also received regional or local anesthesia consisting of caudal block in 79.23% or nerve block in 20.77%. The average duration of surgery was 33 ± 17.47 minutes. No intraoperative complications were noted. All the patients received acetaminophen and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug in the recovery room. Twelve (11.7%) patients had complications in recovery, principally nausea and vomiting. Eight (7.8%) patients were admitted to the hospital.

CONCLUSIONS:
No serious complications were associated with ambulatory surgery. Its introduction could possibly be a solution to improving pediatric surgical access in low-income countries.
Dural Puncture Epidural Technique Improves Labor Analgesia Quality With Fewer Side Effects Compared With Epidural and Combined Spinal Epidural Techniques: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Chau Anthony , Bibbo Carolina , Huang Chuan-Chin , Elterman Kelly G. , Cappiello Eric C. , Robinson Julian N. , Tsen Lawrence C. 
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND:
The dural puncture epidural (DPE) technique is a modification of the combined spinal epidural (CSE) technique, where a dural perforation is created from a spinal needle but intrathecal medication administration is withheld. The DPE technique has been shown to improve caudal spread of analgesia compared with epidural (EPL) technique without the side effects observed with the CSE technique. We hypothesized that the onset of labor analgesia would follow this order: CSE > DPE > EPL techniques.

METHODS:
A total of 120 parturients in early labor were randomly assigned to EPL, DPE, or CSE groups. Initial dosing for EPL and DPE consisted of epidural 20 mL of 0.125% bupivacaine plus fentanyl 2 μg/mL over 5 minutes, and for CSE, intrathecal 0.25% bupivacaine 1.7 mg and fentanyl 17 μg. Upon block completion, a blinded coinvestigator assessed the outcomes. Two blinded obstetricians retrospectively interpreted uterine contractions and fetal heart rate tracings 1 hour before and after the neuraxial technique. The primary outcome was time to numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) ≤ 1 analyzed by using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard model. Secondary outcomes included block quality, maternal adverse effects, uterine contraction patterns, and fetal outcomes analyzed by using the χ2 test with Yates continuity correction.

RESULTS:
There was no significant difference in the time to NPRS ≤ 1 between DPE and EPL (hazard ratio 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83–2.4, P = .21). DPE achieved NPRS ≤ 1 significantly slower than CSE (hazard ratio 0.36; 95% CI 0.22–0.59, P = .0001). The median times (interquartile range) to NPRS ≤ 1 were 2 (0.5–6) minutes for CSE, 11 (4–120) minutes for DPE, and 18 (10–120) minutes for EPL. Compared with EPL, DPE had significantly greater incidence of bilateral S2 blockade at 10 minutes (risk ratio [RR] 2.13; 95% CI 1.39–3.28; P < .001), 20 minutes (RR 1.60; 95% CI 1.26–2.03; P < .001), and 30 minutes (RR 1.18; 95% CI 1.01–1.30; P < .034), a lower incidence of asymmetric block after 30 minutes (RR 0.19; 95% CI 0.07–0.51; P < .001) and physician top-up intervention (RR 0.45; 95% CI 0.23–0.86; P = .011). Compared with CSE, DPE had a significantly lower incidence of pruritus (RR 0.15; 95% CI 0.06–0.38; P < .001), hypotension (RR 0.38; 95% CI 0.15–0.98; P = .032), combined uterine tachysystole and hypertonus (RR 0.22; 95% CI 0.08–0.60; P < .001), and physician top-up intervention (RR 0.45; 95% CI 0.23–0.86; p = .011).

CONCLUSIONS:
Analgesia onset was most rapid with CSE with no difference between DPE and EPL techniques. The DPE technique has improved block quality over the EPL technique with fewer maternal and fetal side effects than the CSE technique for parturients requesting early labor analgesia.
The spectraplakin Short stop is an essential microtubule regulator involved in epithelial closure in Drosophila
Authors: Takács Zsanett , Jankovics Ferenc , Vilmos Péter , Lénárt Péter , Röper Katja , Erdélyi Miklós 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACT
Dorsal closure of the Drosophila embryonic epithelium provides an excellent model system for the in vivo analysis of molecular mechanisms regulating cytoskeletal rearrangements. In this study, we investigated the function of the Drosophila spectraplakin Short stop (Shot), a conserved cytoskeletal structural protein, during closure of the dorsal embryonic epithelium. We show that Shot is essential for the efficient final zippering of the opposing epithelial margins. By using isoform-specific mutant alleles and genetic rescue experiments with truncated Shot variants, we demonstrate that Shot functions as an actin–microtubule cross-linker in mediating zippering. At the leading edge of epithelial cells, Shot regulates protrusion dynamics by promoting filopodia formation. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) analysis and in vivo imaging of microtubule growth revealed that Shot stabilizes dynamic microtubules. The actin- and microtubule-binding activities of Shot are simultaneously required in the same molecule, indicating that Shot is engaged as a physical crosslinker in this process. We propose that Shot-mediated interactions between microtubules and actin filaments facilitate filopodia formation, which promotes zippering by initiating contact between opposing epithelial cells.
The mucosal barrier at a glance
Authors: France Marion M. , Turner Jerrold R. 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACT
Mucosal barriers separate self from non-self and are essential for life. These barriers, which are the first line of defense against external pathogens, are formed by epithelial cells and the substances they secrete. Rather than an absolute barrier, epithelia at mucosal surfaces must allow selective paracellular flux that discriminates between solutes and water while preventing the passage of bacteria and toxins. In vertebrates, tight junctions seal the paracellular space; flux across the tight junction can occur through two distinct routes that differ in selectivity, capacity, molecular composition and regulation. Dysregulation of either pathway can accompany disease. A third, tight-junction-independent route that reflects epithelial damage can also contribute to barrier loss during disease. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and accompanying poster, we present current knowledge on the molecular components and pathways that establish this selectively permeable barrier and the interactions that lead to barrier dysfunction during disease.
Parathyroid hormone 1-34 and skeletal anabolic action
Authors: Osagie-Clouard L. , Sanghani A. , Coathup M. , Briggs T. , Bostrom M. , Blunn G. 
Published: January 2017

Intermittently administered parathyroid hormone (PTH 1-34) has been shown to promote bone formation in both human and animal studies. The hormone and its analogues stimulate both bone formation and resorption, and as such at low doses are now in clinical use for the treatment of severe osteoporosis. By varying the duration of exposure, parathyroid hormone can modulate genes leading to increased bone formation within a so-called ‘anabolic window’. The osteogenic mechanisms involved are multiple, affecting the stimulation of osteoprogenitor cells, osteoblasts, osteocytes and the stem cell niche, and ultimately leading to increased osteoblast activation, reduced osteoblast apoptosis, upregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, increased stem cell mobilisation, and mediation of the RANKL/OPG pathway. Ongoing investigation into their effect on bone formation through ‘coupled’ and ‘uncoupled’ mechanisms further underlines the impact of intermittent PTH on both cortical and cancellous bone. Given the principally catabolic actions of continuous PTH, this article reviews the skeletal actions of intermittent PTH 1-34 and the mechanisms underlying its effect. Cite this article: L. Osagie-Clouard, A. Sanghani, M. Coathup, T. Briggs, M. Bostrom, G. Blunn. Parathyroid hormone 1-34 and skeletal anabolic action: The use of parathyroid hormone in bone formation. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:14–21. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.61.BJR-2016-0085.R1.
Understanding classroom participation and identity negotiation: An undergraduate student’s L2 learning experiences in an English-medium university in Hong Kong
Authors: Sung Chit Cheung Matthew 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThis paper reports on a narrative inquiry of a Hong Kong female undergraduate student’s second language (L2) learning experiences in an English-medium university in Hong Kong, with a focus on her participation in classroom oral activities and identity negotiation. Using ideas from situated learning theory and Norton’s (2000) notions of identity and investment, the paper analyzes how the student negotiated her classroom participation and identities over the course of her studies in the university. Findings suggest that the student’s classroom participation in the English-medium university appeared to be a complex and dynamic process which involved ongoing negotiations of identities, competence and membership in the classroom in response to the challenges she faced. It was found that the student’s participation and identity (re)construction in the classroom were mediated by the contextual complexities in specific classroom communities and were contingent upon the agentive choices made by the student in investing in different classroom activities. Findings also indicate that the student’s participation evolved over time alongside a changing sense of competence and showed signs of gradual yet non-linear progression from peripheral to full participation in the classroom.
BRCA1/2 associated cancer susceptibility: a clinical overview
Authors: Lypas Georgios 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThe most frequently identified genetic cause of breast cancer is the germline mutation ofBRCA1and 2 genes. The carriers of these mutations are at high risk for breast and ovarian cancers and increased risk for pancreatic and prostate cancers. Personal and family history are routinely used to identify individuals at risk for carrying such mutations. Genetic counselling is required to guide them through genetic testing and risk management. Positive testing corresponds to a deleterious mutation, whereas negative testing is considered as uninformative; variants of unknown clinical significance are also classified as uninformative.The most effective risk reduction strategy involves bilateral prophylactic mastectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, eliminating 90% of breast and 97% of ovarian cancer risks, respectively. Before and until such surgery, surveillance with physical examination, mammography and magnetic resonance mammography, starting at 25–30 years of age, are recommended for the early diagnosis of breast cancer; semi-annual surveillance with physical examination, transvaginal ultrasound and serum CA-125 is recommended for women who have not had prophylactic surgery. Carriers diagnosed with breast cancer run a high risk for a new breast primary and this information should be used accordingly. PARP inhibitors is a new class of antineoplastic agents, already approved for advancedBRCA1/2mutant (germline or somatic) ovarian cancer.Multigene panel testing may follow a negativeBRCAgenetic test, often identifying other genetic causes of cancer, expanding its role in oncology. Further adoption of PARP inhibitors, refinement in estimation of BRCA-associated cancer risks and wider population testing, through NGS technology, may become available in the near future.
Metabolic syndrome and Cancer: Do they share common molecular pathways?
Authors: Veniou E. , Sofatzis I. , Kalantzis I. , Karakosta M. , Logothetis M. , Lianos E. , Ziras N. 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Metabolic syndrome, a clustering of risk factors including obesity, has emerged as a global health plague. A lot of epidemiological and clinical evidence suggests that the metabolic syndrome is linked not only to cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus type 2 but also to cancer development and progression. In this review the potential mechanisms tying the metabolic syndrome with cancer are presented. The role of insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, the activation of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) pathway, and the induction of cytotoxic products are highlighted. Subsequent effects leading to oxidative stress, release of lipokines with signaling properties by adipocytes, development of a sustained systemic inflammation, production of inflammatory cytokines, and establishment of a tumorigenic environment are also discussed. The importance of the metabolic syndrome and obesity coupled with the deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms has trigger intensive clinical research with an aim to prevent the risk of cancer and improve outcomes. Moreover, the need for lifestyle changes with increased physical activity and improved dietary quality has been emerged as urgent health priority.
Cardiotoxicity of the adjuvant trastuzumab in a Saudi population: clinical experience of a single institution
Authors: Hamed Rasha Hamdy , Salim Khalid , Alzahrani Abdullah , Elsamany Shereef 
Published: January 2017

AbstractPurposeAdjuvant trastuzumab is currently an internationally standard for the treatment of localised breast cancer that over express HER2 with the most adverse effect being cardiotoxicity. We conducted this study to evaluate the cardiac safety of trastuzumab in clinical practice.MethodsThis study is a retrospective observational single institutional study conducted in the Oncology Center of King Abdulla Medical City (KAMC), Makkah, Saudi Arabia, from June 2011 to January 2014. We evaluated the incidence of cardio toxicity and associated risk factors during adjuvant trastuzumab treatment.ResultsOf 57 patients, 20 patients (35%) exhibited cardiotoxicity. About 14% of patients had drop of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) below 50%, whilst 10% and 15% drop of LVEF below their baseline levels were found in 30% and 5% of patients, respectively. About 98.3% of our patients have completed treatment, of whom 21% had a provisional interruption because of a fall in LVEF. A definitive trastuzumab discontinuation has been made in 1.75% of cases because of a nonregressive reduction in LVEF. Analysis of risk factors related to trastuzumab cardio toxicity found that patients older than 40 years were more likely to develop cardio toxicity compared to those younger than 40 years. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.042).ConclusionIn our study, the cardiac safety seems comparable with the literature data. Trastuzumab-related cardiotoxicity is manifested by an asymptomatic decrease in the LVEF and less commonly by clinical heart failure. Most instances are transient, asymptomatic and reversible.
Promotion effect of NP fire retardant pre-treatment on heat-treated poplar wood. Part 1: color generation, dimensional stability, and fire retardancy
Authors: Chu Demiao , Mu Jun , Zhang Li , Li Yushuang 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Heat treatment (HT) enhances various properties of wood (W), but it takes a relatively long time and WHT is a source of fire hazard. To improve the properties of WHT, Populus beijingensis W. Y. Hsu wood was impregnated with nitrogen-phosphorus (NP) fire retardant (10% aqueous solution) and the effects of the combined NP treatment and HT were observed. Control groups included native wood and samples from WHT200°C, 120 min and WHT220°C, 120 min. The surface color, dimensional stability, and combustion properties of the treated samples were examined. NP pre-treatment intensified the effectivity of HT150°C, where the treatment time decreased by 75%. The decomposition and catalytic dehydration of NP treatment enhanced the dimensional stability and darkened the wood surface. After HT, the NP fire retardant was transformed from dispersive particles into a uniform layer on the inner surfaces of wood. The heat release rate (HRR) decreased by 60.3% and the residual mass (RM) increased by 61.1% in WNP, HT compared to normal WHT200°C poplar.
Water sorption hysteresis in wood: II mathematical modeling – functions beyond data fitting
Authors: Shi Jingbo , Avramidis Stavros 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
The Preisach model, the mathematical form of the independent domain model, has been used to describe water sorption hysteresis in wood for over 20 years, however, its geometric interpretation has not been fully explored. In this work, it is demonstrated that the geometric interpretation can be used to explain the five experimental hysteresis patterns identified in the first paper of this series. Additionally, a modification to the aforementioned model is suggested that involves a numerical implementation, which avoids the use of unknown parameters. Our approach was evaluated at 25 and 40°C by comparing the predicted 1st to 4th order scanning curves with experimental data for Douglas-fir, western red cedar and Aspen. The low prediction errors and well-maintained wiping-out property support the suitability of our approach. Compared to other models found in literature, the presented model has the advantage of high accuracy and easy implementation due to its nonparametric nature.