bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The PMA Catalogue: 420 million positions and absolute proper motions
Authors: Akhmetov V. S. , Fedorov P. N. , Velichko A. B. , Shulga V. M.
Published: March 2017

We present a catalogue that contains about 420 million absolute proper motions of stars. It was derived from the combination of positions from Gaia DR1 and 2MASS, with a mean difference of epochs of about 15 yr. Most of the systematic zonal errors inherent in the 2MASS Catalogue were eliminated before deriving the absolute proper motions. The absolute calibration procedure (zero-pointing of the proper motions) was carried out using about 1.6 million positions of extragalactic sources. The mean formal error of the absolute calibration is less than 0.35 mas yr−1. The derived proper motions cover the whole celestial sphere without gaps for a range of stellar magnitudes from 8 to 21 mag. In the sky areas where the extragalactic sources are invisible (the avoidance zone), a dedicated procedure was used that transforms the relative proper motions into absolute ones. The rms error of proper motions depends on stellar magnitude and ranges from 2–5 mas yr−1 for stars with 10 mag < G < 17 mag to 5–10 mas yr−1 for faint ones. The present catalogue contains the Gaia DR1 positions of stars for the J2015 epoch. The system of the PMA proper motions does not depend on the systematic errors of the 2MASS positions, and in the range from 14 to 21 mag represents an independent realization of a quasi-inertial reference frame in the optical and near-infrared wavelength range. The Catalogue also contains stellar magnitudes taken from the Gaia DR1 and 2MASS catalogues. A comparison of the PMA proper motions of stars with similar data from certain recent catalogues has been undertaken.
Cryoglobulinemia vasculitis: how to handle
Authors: Desbois Anne C. , Comarmond Cloe , Saadoun David , Cacoub Patrice
Published: March 2017

Purpose of review

More than 50% of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected patients produce a mixed cryoglobulin and two-third of them will develop a symptomatic cryoglobulinemia vasculitis (CryoVas). In the present review, we aim at summarizing the most recent advances in diagnosis and treatment of HCV-CryoVas.

Recent findings

The treatment of HCV-CryoVas has much changed during the last months. The recent emergence of new direct-acting (DAA) interferon (IFN)-free antivirals, enabling high cure rates with a very good safety profile now permit to cure most patients with HCV-CryoVas. Multidisciplinary consensus recommends to consider IFN-free DAAs as first-line treatment for HCV-CryoVas patients. Immunosuppressive treatments (i.e. rituximab, glucocorticosteroids, cyclophosphamide and plasmapheresis) remain an interesting therapeutic approach, in severe form of HCV-CryoVas, failure or contradiction to antiviral treatments.

The great efficacy of DAA on HCV-CryoVas represents a major advance in clinical practice, as these new antivirals provide for the first time a well tolerated and definite treatment of such complication for most patients.
Medial approach open reduction with ligamentum teres partial excision and plication for the management of congenital hip dislocation
Authors: Youssef Ahmed O.
Published: March 2017

Because of the known tendency for early redislocation following open reduction, we developed surgical methods for shortening the ligamentum teres to improve immediate postoperative stability when performing medial approach open reduction (MAOR) for the management of developmental dysplasia of the hip. Between 2004 and 2014, 32 patients with dysplasia of the hip were managed by MAOR with partial excision and plication of ligamentum teres. The patients were followed up for an average of 6.9 years. At the final follow-up, clinical outcomes achieved were categorized as excellent and good in 39 (39/40; 97.5%) hips. At the latest follow-up, 97.5% (39 hips) were classified as good or excellent on the basis of the Severin classification (Severin grade 1 or 2). In conclusion, this series of MAOR, in which ligamentum teres partial excision and plication was utilized, we found stable reduction in all hips. On the basis of these positive results, we recommend this method for children treated with MAOR. Level of evidence: Level IV: case series.
Simulation of a Novel Schedule for Intensivist Staffing to Improve Continuity of Patient Care and Reduce Physician Burnout
Authors: Geva Alon , Landrigan Christopher P. , van der Velden Meredith G. , Randolph Adrienne G.
Published: March 2017

Objective:

Despite widespread adoption of in-house call for ICU attendings, there is a paucity of research on optimal scheduling of intensivists to provide continuous on-site coverage. Overnight call duties have traditionally been added onto 7 days of continuous daytime clinical service. We designed an alternative ICU staffing model to increase continuity of attending physician care for patients while also decreasing interruptions to attendings’ nonclinical weeks.

Design:

Computer-based simulation of a 1-year schedule.

Setting:

A simulated ICU divided into two daytime teams each covered by a different attending and both covered by one overnight on-call attending.

Subjects:

Simulated patients were randomly admitted on different service days to assess continuity of care.

Interventions:

A “shared service schedule” was compared to a standard “7 days on schedule.” For the 7 days on schedule, an attending covered a team for 7 consecutive days and off-service attendings cross-covered each night. For the shared schedule, four attendings shared the majority of daytime and nighttime service for two teams over 2 weeks, with recovery periods built into the scheduled service time.

Measurements and Main Results:

Continuity of care as measured by the Continuity of Attending Physician Index increased by 9% with the shared schedule. Annually, the shared service schedule was predicted to increase free weekends by 3.4 full weekends and 1.3 weekends with either Saturday or Sunday off. Full weeks without clinical obligations increased by 4 weeks. Mean time between clinical obligations increased by 5.8 days.

Conclusions:

A shared service schedule is predicted to improve continuity of care while increasing free weekends and continuity of uninterrupted nonclinical weeks for attendings. Computer-based simulation allows assessment of benefits and tradeoffs of the alternative schedule without disturbing existing clinical systems.
S-shaped Wound Closure Technique for Dumbbell-shaped Keloids
Authors: Komatsu Seiji , Azumi Shougo , Hayashi Yuko , Morito Tsuneharu , Kimata Yoshihiro
Published: March 2017

Dog-ear collection, Z-plasty, and W-plasty are often performed for excision of dumbbell-shaped keloids; however, these procedures require additional incisions or excision of normal skin. Thus, an S-shaped wound closure technique was performed. The keloid lesions were extralesionally excised above the deep fascia, and the wound edges were shifted in opposite directions along the major axis to form an S-shape. The incision was closed by applying deep fascial sutures, subcutaneous sutures, and superficial sutures. Postoperative external beam radiation therapy was started within 6 hours after surgery at a dose of 20 Gy applied in 4 fractions. All wounds were covered with silicone-gel sheeting and fixed with tape after suture removal. No intralesional corticosteroid injection or oral tranilast was administered. Corticosteroid tape was applied in cases with suspected postoperative recurrence. Scoring was performed using the Manchester Scar Scale. A total of 8 lesions were treated. Temporary erythema and scar elevation were observed in 2 chest lesions; however, both were flattened and turned white using corticosteroid tape. Other than these 2 lesions, there was no recurrence or complication. The mean score improved from 15.8 to 7.2. The S-shaped wound closure technique has 3 advantages. First, no additional incision or excision is required, and additional scarring and keloid recurrence can be avoided. Second, aesthetic results are good, and noticeably long and zigzag-shaped scars can be avoided. Third, dispersion of tension on the scar can be expected. Although the S-shaped wound closure technique has limited application, it is a useful option for keloid treatment.
STENOTROPHOMONAS MALTOPHILIA ENDOPHTHALMITIS 1 MONTH AFTER INTRAVITREAL AFLIBERCEPT
Authors: Boeke Paul S. , Gottlieb Justin L.
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

Endophthalmitis caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is rare and has been described after cataract surgery and open globe injuries. We report a patient with endophthalmitis caused by this organism after uncomplicated intravitreal aflibercept injection.

Methods:

A 70-year-old man with a history of anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for diabetic macular edema presented 23 days after aflibercept injection with clinical diagnosis of endophthalmitis. The patient initially had mild pain, conjunctival congestion, and anterior chamber cell; 2 days later, the patient returned with hand motion visual acuity, hypopyon, and dense vitritis.

Results:

A tap and inject procedure was performed. The aqueous sample confirmed the presence of S. maltophilia. Antimicrobial testing showed susceptibility to ceftazidime which was used during the initial treatment. After resolution of the vitritis and hypopyon, the visual acuity returned to 20/70 at his 3-month follow-up examination.

Conclusion:

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is a rare infectious agent associated with intravitreal injection and may present 1 month after treatment.
Transmission of Donor-Derived Breast Carcinoma as a Recurrent Mass in a Keratolimbal Allograft
Authors: Miller Audra K. , Young Jonathan W. , Wilson David J. , Dunlap Jennifer , Chamberlain Winston
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

To report a case of local transmission of invasive lobular carcinoma from a donor to a recipient in a keratolimbal allograft after cessation of systemic immunosuppressive therapy.

Methods:

This is a case report including the clinicopathologic findings. Sections of the donor breast tumor and recipient conjunctival lesions were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Immunohistochemical studies were performed using pancytokeratin, CK7, CK20, CAM 5.2, CD138, TTF1, estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, GATA-3, GCDFP-15, and mammaglobin. Polymerase chain reaction-based DNA profiling of tumor cells was performed.

Results:

Histopathologic examination revealed an infiltrate of atypical cells with large hyperchromatic nuclei consistent with carcinoma. Immunohistochemical analysis showed pancytokeratin, CK7, CAM 5.2, GATA-3, and estrogen receptor positivity and progesterone receptor absence, consistent with the previously determined phenotype of the donor's breast carcinoma. Results of polymerase chain reaction analysis were also consistent with the donor's tumor. After reduced dosing of tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil, 2 limbal tumors occurred in the recipient. The immunosuppressive treatment had been stopped completely before the appearance of the third lesion. The recipient had no history of malignancy, and she had routine screenings for breast cancer.

Conclusions:

We report a case of donor-derived breast carcinoma in a keratolimbal allograft recipient. The grafted tissue harbored donor-derived tumor cells for more than 4 years after surgery even after systemic immunosuppression was discontinued. Although no similar reports of tumor transfer could be found in the literature, this case suggests the need for increased stringency in donor selection and heightened surveillance for such tumor transmission.
Measuring Forward Light Scatter by the Boston Keratoprosthesis in Various Configurations
Authors: Abdelaziz Musa , Dohlman Claes H. , Sayegh Rony R.
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

Light scatter results in degradation of visual function. An optical bench model was used to identify the origins of scatter in the setting of a Boston keratoprosthesis (KPro). The effect of various modifications in the device design and light-blocking configurations was explored.

Methods:

A KPro was mounted on a contact lens holder on a bench, and forward light scatter was recorded with a camera attached to a rotating goniometer arm. Scattered light was recorded at different angles for different KPro modifications, and the point-spread function (PSF) curves were recorded. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for each PSF curve.

Results:

The isolated KPro optical cylinder in a totally blackened holding lens had a tight PSF (AUC = 3.3). Additional blackening of the walls of the KPro stem did not further diminish forward scatter significantly. If the holding lens is made translucent by sandblasting (to simulate an in vivo carrier cornea) and the KPro is inserted without a backplate, forward scatter is substantial (AUC = 11.3). If a standard backplate (with holes) is added, light scatter is considerably reduced regardless of whether the backplate is made of polymethyl methacrylate or titanium (AUC = 5.3 and 4.4, respectively). Addition of an acrylic intraocular lens behind the KPro (the pseudophakic KPro setup) did not increase scatter.

Conclusions:

Most of the scattered light in eyes implanted with a KPro originates from the surrounding hazy corneal graft. The standard addition of a backplate reduces light scatter. There was no difference in forward light scatter between the aphakic and the pseudophakic KPro.
The De Winter ECG pattern: morphology and accuracy for diagnosing acute coronary occlusion: systematic review
Authors: Morris Niall P. , Body Richard
Published: March 2017

The De Winter ECG pattern has been reported to indicate acute left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion and is often considered to be an ‘ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) equivalent’. We aimed to investigate the morphology of the ‘De Winter ECG pattern’ and evaluate the test characteristics of the De Winter pattern for the diagnosis of acute coronary occlusion. We identified papers through the Medline, EMBASE and COCHRANE databases and screened for bias using QUADAS-2. First, measurements were recorded from every ECG reported in the literature and aggregated. Second, diagnostic accuracy data from eligible cohort studies were extracted. The primary outcome was defined as at least 70% angiographic stenosis of a major epicardial vessel. Thirteen papers reported data relevant to question 1 and three papers reported data relevant to question 2. All ECGs showed maximal up-sloping ST depression in lead V3 with a median amplitude of 0.3 mV (interquartile range: 0.2–4 mV). T-wave height peaked in lead V3 with a median amplitude 0.9 mV (interquartile range: 0.8–1.1 mV). The De Winter pattern had positive predictive values of 95.2% (95% confidence interval: 76.2–99.9%), 100% (69.2–100.0%) and 100% (51.7–100%) in the three respective diagnostic studies. There is limited evidence that the De Winter ECG pattern is a ‘STEMI equivalent’. The available data suggest that the pattern has high positive predictive value for acute occlusion. Further research is required to evaluate specificity and to determine whether rapid revascularization improves mortality.
Improving Patient Education at a Large Midwest Urban Orthopaedic Center
Authors: Laude Kathleen , Buchholz Susan Weber , Rodts Mary
Published: March 2017

A large Midwest urban orthopaedic center sought to improve dissemination and documentation of its education information given to its patients. A new electronic, partially automated patient education delivery system was implemented that disseminates and documents targeted patient education modules. The program triggers automatic dissemination of general education based on patient demographics. Surgical education modules are disseminated manually. The semiautomated electronic education program successfully placed the center in compliance with Stage 2 Meaningful Use and showed improved dissemination of educational materials. The orthopaedic center and patients would benefit from further review and intervention to increase patient compliance with education materials.
Presurgical Concerns of Primary Family Caregivers of Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Yu Li-Chun , Chen Li-Chin , Lin Hsiu-Chen , Lin Yueh-E. , Chang Chia-Hsieh , Chen Shu-Ching
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND:

Primary family caregivers (PFCs) of children with cerebral palsy have many worries and concerns when their children face orthopedic surgery. Levels of PFC stress about the upcoming surgery is related to the child's level of gross motor function as well as the support they receive from medical professionals.

PURPOSE:

The purposes of the present study were to (1) explore the levels of concern about orthopedic surgery; and (2) explore the predictive factors associated with concerns about orthopedic surgery among PFCs of children with cerebral palsy during the preoperative period.

METHODS:

A cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted. Primary family caregivers were assessed preoperatively using the Single-event Multilevel Surgery Scale, Social Support Scale, Gross Motor Function Classification System–Expanded and Revised, and background information form. Primary family caregivers were recruited from the outpatient department of orthopedic surgery and pediatric rehabilitation of a medical center in northern Taiwan. Data were analyzed by descriptive analysis, Pearson product–moment correlation, and multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS:

A total of 63 eligible subjects were enrolled in this study. Primary family caregivers had moderate levels of concern and mild-to-moderate levels of social support. The higher severity of motor function impairment in children with cerebral palsy, prior caregiving by PFCs for another family member, and PFCs' lower level of social support from healthcare providers were associated with higher levels of PFC concern.

CONCLUSIONS:

Concerns about orthopedic surgery is an overlooked issue that needs more attention from healthcare providers. This study determined that PFCs who perceived a lack of social support from their healthcare providers and those with children who had limited gross motor function were more concerned and anxious about their children's upcoming orthopedic surgery. Health professionals should provide adequate health education and counseling to help PFCs of children with cerebral palsy in the decision-making process prior to orthopedic surgery.
Prostate Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Amin Ali
Published: March 2017

Prostate ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a rare subtype of prostate adenocarcinoma that shows more aggressive behavior than conventional prostatic acinar adenocarcinoma. PDA demonstrates similar clinical and paraclinical features such as prostatic acinar adenocarcinoma; therefore, clinical distinction of the 2 entities is very difficult (if not impossible) and histopathology plays an important role in the diagnosis of the disease. This review discusses all the necessary information needed for the diagnosis and prognosis of PDA including the morphologic features of PDA, an introduction about the known variants of PDA with helpful hints in grading of each variant, tips on differential diagnosis of PDA from the common morphologic mimickers, a detailed discussion on the value of immunohistochemistry in the diagnosis of PDA, and pathologic features that are helpful in determining the outcome.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome Secondary to Metoclopramide Use in an Elderly Gastroenterologic Surgery Patient
Authors: Breeden Richard , Ford Heath , Chrisman Carey , Mascioli Charles
Published: March 2017

An 84-year-old African American woman was admitted to the hospital secondary to severe abdominal pain accompanied by septic shock. She underwent exploratory laparotomy, which revealed extensive small bowel necrosis likely due to small bowel torsion. A small bowel resection was performed with primary anastomoses and the patient was subsequently transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU). She recovered from shock but had a persistent gastroparesis interfering with enteral feeding, for which metoclopramide was prescribed. She was then transferred to a general medical–surgical unit in a stable condition where she received a total of four 10-mg oral doses of metoclopramide administered every 8 hours. Approximately 32 hours after receiving the first dose of metoclopramide, the patient was subsequently transferred back to the ICU because of fever and inability to maintain respirations. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome was suspected, and the patient was intubated and received supportive care. After a week in the ICU, she was discharged back to the medical–surgical unit in a stable condition and recovered completely. The patient was later discharged home.
Urine glucose levels are disordered before blood glucose levels increase in Zucker diabetic fatty rats
Authors: Yin Wei , Qin Weiwei , Gao Youhe
Published: March 2017

Diabetes mellitus is a type of metabolic disease marked by hyperglycemia, and 90% of diabetes cases are type 2 diabetes mellitus. More than half of patients are not diagnosed at all or are diagnosed too late to be effectively treated, resulting in nonspecific symptoms and a long period of incubation of the disease. Pre-diabetes mellitus, also known as impaired glucose regulation, is an early warning signal of diabetes, which has long been determinated by impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance. In this study, Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats were used to test if there were changes in urine glucose before blood glucose increases. Six 8-week-old male ZDF rats (fa/fa) and Zucker lean (ZL) rats (fa/+) were fed with Purina 5008 high-fat diet and tested for fasting blood glucose and urine glucose. After 12 weeks of feeding, the urine glucose values of the ZL rats were normal (0-10 mmol/L), but the values of the ZDF model rats increased 10 weeks before their blood glucose levels elevated. The urine glucose values of the ZDF model rats showed a state of disorder that was frequently elevated (>10 mmol/L) and occasionally normal (0-10 mmol/L). This finding may provide an easy early diagnosis. Screening for human diabetes can be considered by frequently monitoring urine glucose levels: pre-diabetes may be revealed by frequently disordered urine glucose levels over a period.
xMWAS: an R package for data-driven integration and differential network analysis
Authors: Uppal Karan , Go Young-Mi , Jones Dean P.
Published: March 2017

Integrative omics is a central component of most systems biology studies. Computational methods are required for extracting meaningful relationships across different omics layers. Various tools have been developed to facilitate integration of paired heterogenous omics data; however most existing tools allow integration of only two omics datasets. Further-more, existing data integration tools do not incorporate additional steps of identifying sub-networks or communities of highly connected entities and evaluating the topology of the integrative network under different conditions. Here we present xMWAS, an R package for data integration, network visualization, clustering, differential network analysis of data from biochemical and phenotypic assays, and two or more omics platforms.

Availability

https://sourceforge.net/projects/xmwas/

Contact

kuppal2@emory.edu
Agreement between measurements of stance width using motion capture and center of pressure in individuals with and without Parkinson’s disease
Authors: McKay J. Lucas
Published: March 2017

Background

Many individuals with Parkinson’s disease exhibit narrow stance width during balance and gait. Because of this, stance width is an important biomechanical variable in many studies. Measuring stance width accurately using kinematic markers in parkinsonian patients can be problematic due to occlusions by research staff who must closely guard patients to prevent falls.

Methods

We investigated whether a measure of stance width based on the mediolateral distance between the center of pressure under each foot could approximate stance width measured with kinematic data. We assessed the agreement between estimates of stance width obtained from simultaneous kinematic and center of pressure measures during quiet standing in 15 individuals (n=9 parkinsonian, n=6 age-similar neurotypical). The source data (1363 unique trials) contained observations of stance width varying between 75–384 mm (≈25-150% of hip width).

Findings

Stance width estimates using the two measures were strongly correlated (r= 0.98). Center of pressure estimates of stance width were 48 mm wider on average than kinematic measures, and did not vary across study groups (F2,12=1.81,P<0.21). The expected range of differences between the center of pressure and kinematic methods was 14–83 mm. Agreement increased as stance width increased (P<0.02).

Interpretation

It is appropriate to define stance width based on center of pressure when it is convenient to do so in studies of individuals with and without Parkinson’s disease. When comparing results across studies with the two methodologies, it is reasonable to assume a bias of 48 mm.
The role of N-terminal modification of MeCP2 in the pathophysiology of Rett syndrome
Authors: Sheikh Taimoor I. , de Paz Alexia Martínez , Akhtar Shamim , Ausió Juan , Vincent John B.
Published: March 2017

Methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), the mutated protein in Rett syndrome (RTT), is a crucial chromatin-modifying and gene-regulatory protein that has two main isoforms (MeCP2_E1 and MeCP2_ E2) due to the alternative splicing and switching between translation start codons in exons one and two. Functionally, these two isoforms appear to be virtually identical; however, evidence suggests that only MeCP2_E1 is relevant to RTT, including a single RTT missense mutation in exon 1, p.Ala2Val. Here, we show that N-terminal co- and post- translational modifications differ for MeCP2_E1, MeCP2_E1-p.Ala2Val and MeCP2_E2, which result in different protein degradation ratesin vitro. We report partial N-methionine excision (NME) for MeCP2_E2, whereas NME for MeCP2_E1 is complete. Surprisingly, we also observed evidence of excision of multiple alanine residues from the N-terminal polyalanine stretch. Regarding MeCP2_E1-Ala2Val, we also observed only partial NME and N-acetylation (NA) of either methionine or valine. The localization of MeCP2_E1 and co-localization with chromatin appear to be unaffected by the p.Ala2Val mutation. However, a higher proteasomal degradation rate was observed for MeCP2_E1-Ala2Val compared with that for wild type (WT) MeCP2_E1. Thus, the etiopathology of p.Ala2Val is likely due to a reduced bio-availability of MeCP2 because of the faster degradation rate of the unmodified defective protein. MeCP2_E1 is thought to have a much higher translational efficiency than MeCP2_E2. Our data suggest that this increased efficiency may be balanced by a higher degradation rate. The higher turnover rate of the MeCP2_E1 protein suggests that it may play a more dynamic role in cells than MeCP2_E2.

Significance statement

The Rett syndrome protein, MeCP2, undergoes a number of modifications before becoming functionally active in the body’s cells. Here, we report the presence of N-terminal modifications in both MeCP2 isoforms, MeCP2_E1 and MeCP2_E2, and that the only reported Rett missense mutation in exon 1, p.Ala2Val, disrupts these modifications, decreasing the longevity of the protein. Interestingly, p.Ala2Val mutations have been reported in many other disease genes, such asDKCX, ECHS1, IRF6, SMN1, andTNNI3, and the etiopathological mechanism(s) have never been explained. Thus, this work is important not only for the understanding of the pathophysiology of Rett syndrome but also for a deeper understanding of the effects of genetic mutations at the N-terminal end of genes in general.
Implementation and System Identification of a Phosphorylation-Based Insulator in a Cell-Free Transcription-Translation System
Authors: Guo Shaobin , Yeung Enoch , Murray Richard M.
Published: March 2017

An outstanding challenge in the design of synthetic biocircuits is the development of a robust and efficient strategy for interconnecting functional modules. Recent work demonstrated that a phosphorylation-based insulator (PBI) implementing a dual strategy of high gain and strong negative feedback can be used as a device to attenuate retroactivity. This paper describes the implementation of such a biological circuit in a cell-free transcription-translation system and the structural identifiability of the PBI in the system. We first show that the retroactivity also exists in the cell-free system by testing a simple negative regulation circuit. Then we demonstrate that the PBI circuit helps attenuate the retroactivity significantly compared to the control. We consider a complex model that provides an intricate description of all chemical reactions and leveraging specific physiologically plausible assumptions. We derive a rigorous simplified model that captures the output dynamics of the PBI. We perform standard system identification analysis and determine that the model is globally identifiable with respect to three critical parameters. These three parameters are identifiable under specific experimental conditions and we perform these experiments to estimate the parameters. Our experimental results suggest that the functional form of our simplified model is sufficient to describe the reporter dynamics and enable parameter estimation. In general, this research illustrates the utility of the cell-free expression system as an alternate platform for biocircuit implementation and system identification and it can provide helpful insights into future biological circuit designs.
An unusual genomic variant of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with an indolent clinical course
Authors: Kohutek Zachary A. , Rosati Lauren M. , Hong Junguei , Poling Justin , Attiyeh Marc A. , Makohon-Moore Alvin , Herman Joseph M. , Iacobuzio-Donahue Christine A.
Published: March 2017

We describe an 85-yr-old male of Ashkenazi Jewish descent with biopsy-proven locally advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). The patient underwent a modified course of gemcitabine and stereotactic body radiation therapy and survived for 42 mo with a stable pancreatic head mass and no evidence of metastatic disease before death due to complications from a stroke. Whole-exome sequencing of his tumor revealed a simple genome landscape with no evidence of mutations, copy-number changes, or structural alterations in genes most commonly associated with PDA (i.e., KRAS, CDKN2A, TP53, or SMAD4). An analysis of his germline DNA revealed no pathogenic variants of significance. Whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing identified a somatic mutation of RNF213 and an inversion/deletion of CTNNA2 as the genetic basis of his PDA. Although PDA is classically characterized by a predictable set of mutations, these data suggest that alternate genetic paths to PDA may exist, which can be associated with a more indolent clinical course.
Crystal structure of tetraaquabis(pyrimidin-1-ium-4,6-diolato-κO4)manganese(II)
Authors: Shennara Khaled A. , Butcher Ray J. , Greenaway Frederick T.
Published: March 2017

The MnIIion in the structure of the mononuclear title compound, [Mn(C4H3N2O2)2(H2O)4], is situated on an inversion center and is coordinated by two O atoms from two deprotonated 4,6-dihydroxypyrimidine ligands and by four O atoms from water molecules giving rise to a slightly distorted octahedral coordination sphere. The complex includes an intramolecular hydrogen bond between an aqua ligand and the non-protonated N ring atom. The extended structure is stabilized by intermolecular hydrogen bonds between aqua ligands, by hydrogen bonds between N and O atoms of the ligands of adjacent molecules, and by hydrogen bonds between aqua ligands and the non-coordinating O atom of an adjacent molecule.
Crystal structure and RNA-binding properties of an Hfq homolog from the deep-branching Aquificae: conservation of the lateral RNA-binding mode
Authors: Stanek Kimberly A. , Patterson-West Jennifer , Randolph Peter S. , Mura Cameron
Published: March 2017

The host factor Hfq, as the bacterial branch of the Sm family, is an RNA-binding protein involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA expression and turnover. Hfq facilitates pairing between small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) and their corresponding mRNA targets by binding both RNAs and bringing them into close proximity. Hfq homologs self-assemble into homo-hexameric rings with at least two distinct surfaces that bind RNA. Recently, another binding site, dubbed the `lateral rim', has been implicated in sRNA·mRNA annealing; the RNA-binding properties of this site appear to be rather subtle, and its degree of evolutionary conservation is unknown. An Hfq homolog has been identified in the phylogenetically deep-branching thermophileAquifex aeolicus(Aae), but little is known about the structure and function of Hfq from basal bacterial lineages such as the Aquificae. Therefore,AaeHfq was cloned, overexpressed, purified, crystallized and biochemically characterized. Structures ofAaeHfq were determined in space groupsP1 andP6, both to 1.5 Å resolution, and nanomolar-scale binding affinities for uridine- and adenosine-rich RNAs were discovered. Co-crystallization with U6RNA reveals that the outer rim of theAaeHfq hexamer features a well defined binding pocket that is selective for uracil. ThisAaeHfq structure, combined with biochemical and biophysical characterization of the homolog, reveals deep evolutionary conservation of the lateral RNA-binding mode, and lays a foundation for further studies of Hfq-associated RNA biology in ancient bacterial phyla.
Crystal structures of Hsp104 N-terminal domains fromSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandCandida albicanssuggest the mechanism for the function of Hsp104 in dissolving prions
Authors: Wang Peng , Li Jingzhi , Weaver Clarissa , Lucius Aaron , Sha Bingdong
Published: March 2017

Hsp104 is a yeast member of the Hsp100 family which functions as a molecular chaperone to disaggregate misfolded polypeptides. To understand the mechanism by which the Hsp104 N-terminal domain (NTD) interacts with its peptide substrates, crystal structures of the Hsp104 NTDs fromSaccharomyces cerevisiae(ScHsp104NTD) andCandida albicans(CaHsp104NTD) have been determined at high resolution. The structures of ScHsp104NTD and CaHsp104NTD reveal that the yeast Hsp104 NTD may utilize a conserved putative peptide-binding groove to interact with misfolded polypeptides. In the crystal structures ScHsp104NTD forms a homodimer, while CaHsp104NTD exists as a monomer. The consecutive residues Gln105, Gln106 and Lys107, and Lys141 around the putative peptide-binding groove mediate the monomer–monomer interactions within the ScHsp104NTD homodimer. Dimer formation by ScHsp104NTD suggests that the Hsp104 NTD may specifically interact with polyQ regions of prion-prone proteins. The data may reveal the mechanism by which Hsp104 NTD functions to suppress and/or dissolve prions.
Significance of family-friendly measures on fertility in Hong Kong
Authors: Lam Gigi , Yan Yuruo , Tu Edward Jow-Ching
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Hong Kong entered an ultra-low fertility regime nearly two decades ago (Census and Statistics Department, 2013). The causes of ultra-low fertility in Hong Kong are the same as those in other developed economies (Tu and Lam, 2009). The phenomenon, in most of the western world and East Asian societies, is attributed to the incongruence between individual-oriented and family-oriented institutions (McDonald, 2000), or simply role incompatibility between work and motherhood (Stycos and Weller, 1967). One viable solution to alleviate role incompatibility is to introduce family-work reconciliation policies, including maternal and paternal leaves, subsidized child care and health care and work facilities that allow for breastfeeding (Lappegard, 2010). The purpose of this paper is to assess the family-friendly measures for enhancing fertility.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyzes the current demographic conundrum and makes recommendations.

Findings

Subsidized child care is an effective measure if it satisfies the five main criteria, namely, availability, accessibility, acceptability, cost, and quality, suggested by Rindfuss et al. (2003). Other family-friendly measures are inadequate in absolute terms and inferior to those of Asian countries such as Japan, Singapore, and South Korea (Ministry of Manpower, 2014; OECD, 2013). The possibility of shifting away from the ultra-low fertility regime remains doubtful, especially because low fertility is a combined effect of an increasing prevalence of single older women (Census and Statistics Department, 2014), a shift of the utility function of children toward other consumable goods (Inglehart, 1982) and a desire for achieving upward intragenerational and intergenerational social mobility (Ariès, 1980).

Practical implications

Since Hong Kong still subsides in the regime of the lowest-low fertility, an evaluation of the related family-friendly measures will provide constructive insights to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government how to provide incentives to citizens to consider making childbearing decisions.

Originality/value

Because the introduction of family-friendly measures and gender ideologies are intractably linked (Brewster and Rindfuss, 2000), Hong Kong stays in the middle of nations of families and nations of individuals, influenced by western ideas and traditional family values. It is hence worthwhile to examine the effectiveness of different family-friendly measures.
A unique pattern of one-child family migration in China
Authors: Mu Yingtan , Yuan Xin
Published: March 2017

Purpose

At the end of the 1970s, the Chinese government enacted the one-child policy; now the one-child successively enters into the labor market and reaches the age for marriage and childbirth. The floating population group of China’s interior regions also experiences the heterogeneity changes. The purpose of this paper is to analyses the reasons for the difference of family migration between one-child and non-only child using the binary logit regression model – from the three aspects of individual characteristics, family endowment and institutional factors were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Family migration or individual migration of the floating population is the dichotomous dependent variable and therefore the binomial logistic regression analysis model is selected.

Findings

It is found that the tendency of one-child family migration is significantly higher than that of non-only child. The main reason is that the one-child has obvious advantages in terms of individual characteristics, family endowment and institutional factors.

Originality/value

The previous researches on family migration: first, the previous researches mainly analyzed the impact of the human capital and family income on the family migration from the perspective of economics and neglected the discussion on the family structure, life cycle, family level factors and Hukou’s limitation; second, most researches considered the migration as a whole. In fact, the migration population is no longer a highly homogeneous group and gradually become diversified.
SMART KM model
Authors: Ahmed Allam , Elhag Mohamed
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically address the key issues facing organisations in implementing knowledge management (KM) initiatives and frameworks and how to develop fit-for-purpose an integrated knowledge management framework (KMF) for organisational excellence. In doing so, the paper critically review concepts, frameworks and models of KM to introduce the SMART KM model to support the successful introduction of KM to an organisation through systematic and well-defined steps. In addition to well-founded theories, SMART KM model is also driven by best-in-class KM practices from a number of industries and sectors. SMART KM contains number of business components which supports knowledge flow throughout the organisations which can be tailored to achieve the organisation-specific goals and objectives in alignment with the adopted operating model. Throughout the paper, number of key issues facing organisations in implementing KM initiatives will be introduced and discussed. The readers would also be able to realise the design principles supporting SMART KM model and how it can be used to improve performance and achieve organisational excellence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an in-depth and critical review of the literature and theories on KM. In doing so, several sources have been reviewed and consulted including various mainstream referred journals focussing on KM, change management, management, HR, social science, strategy, etc. as well as books, online databases, governmental reports and statistics, etc.

Findings

All organisations are demanding better justification for investments in any KM initiative and expected outcomes. Therefore, we must ensure that KM initiatives are directly linked to the organisation’s business strategy. Moreover, we must also ensure that there are performance measurements in place to evaluate the success of the proposed KMF or KM initiative.

Originality/value

The SMART KMF is unique as it considers a number of paradigms and key organisation facets to assure successful deployment of KM practices and long-term sustainability of the associated benefits.
Flow, leadership and serious games – a pedagogical perspective
Authors: Buzady Zoltan
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to briefly outline the relevance of flow, a core concept of positive psychology increasingly applied in leadership development and in serious gaming. The author presents an innovative simulation game designed to teach and train how to manage and lead people based on the principles of “flow-based leadership.”

Design/methodology/approach

This paper briefly describes the flow theory; it relates to leadership theory and why it is increasingly applied in the context of serious games. Then an extensive review and presentation of the features of an innovative serious gaming solution is presented to demonstrate that simulations are a fruitful area into which positive psychology and leadership science are being extended now.

Findings

Despite the growing market segment and various areas of training applications of serious games, very few games have been developed for leadership development. A detailed report presented the conceptual and practical aspects of such a new serious game.

Research limitations/implications

The author’s contribution did not focus on testing a particular framework nor did it aim at exposing new numeric data findings. Instead, the author presented an in-depth case study as an inspiration for future, similar developments. Also, research questions for future analysis of data collected during the leadership development game were outlined.

Practical implications

Readers were informed about a new, innovative serious game application, which is successfully used for leadership development, and in particular to teach the practice of flow-based management concepts.

Social implications

Flow is a concept applied in many fields of life such as sports, music, arts, recreation and work-life. The positive benefits of happiness, creativity, outstanding performance and joy can lead to a fulfilling life which is a paramount value, across all cultures globally. This leadership development game can be applied in other countries and cultures. As a result, the quality of leadership across various cultures can be improved. Researchers are invited to join the outlined new research network and program.

Originality/value

Flow theory is probably the best known concept of positive psychology across related scientific domains such as management, arts, sports, education and spirituality. Professor Csikszentmihalyi – a global figure head – laid the scholarly foundations decades ago, but now the concept is constantly evolving and being adopted into new and changing environments. This necessitates a review – such as this contribution – where the theoretical elements also apply in the new areas of application.
I gamified my courses and I hate that…
Authors: Sobocinski Mikolaj
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Gamification seems to solve all our problems in education. Students become engaged and motivated – they learn so much more than in the traditional system. Conducting lessons becomes a pleasure, an adventure, a catharsis! While checking attendance, participation, quizzes, tasks, assignments, projects, missions, and quests on a daily basis is a bliss. Unfortunately, that is not true. That is only a dream or part of the advertising campaign of yet another so-called professional or seasoned gamifier. Preparing, organising, and designing gamified courses are not a stroll in a park. Every teacher must forsake leisure and family time alike unless they have ample support from colleagues, administration, and IT department. The purpose of this paper is to present the author’s approach to gamification and share some insight into the author’s experience from designing gamified courses and workshops since 2009.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper concentrates on hands-on experience, mistakes, and solutions in order to approach a major issue: should we introduce gamification in education at all?

Findings

In reality, gamification can be the root of all evil if done too hastily, too cheerfully, and without prior understanding of students’ needs, school facilities, and our own abilities. Gamifying a classroom (or a whole school) is a massive project which should be managed with all risks, weaknesses, and threats possible to imagine. That is why, it is advisable to know what to expect, what to fear, and what to avoid in order to choose the path of righteousness, to master the trade, and to reach everlasting glory. When discussing gamification in education, we must face reality, we need to understand what gamification can provide, but also what it can devour. Educational milieu is too sensitive and our students are too precious to apply unverified solutions without the adequate preparations.

Originality/value

The author offers a few answers to the question as well as a handful of suggestions towards the successful introduction of gamification in education.
Chronological changes in trichofolliculoma: Folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma is not a very‐late‐stage trichofolliculoma
Authors: Misago Noriyuki , Ansai Shin‐ichi , Fukumoto Takaya , Anan Takashi , Kimura Tetsunori , Nakao Tomokazu
Published: March 2017

Some authors have reported that the secondary hair follicles in trichofolliculomas (TF) undergo regressive changes and are subsequently replaced by the developed sebaceous elements, and that folliculosebaceous cystic hamartoma (FSCH) is a TF at a very late stage. In the present study, we revaluated the histopathological features of 40 TF lesions, focusing on their chronological changes. The results of the present study indicate that while the secondary follicles in the TF exhibited the hair cycle, the normal hair cycle was out of control, and tertiary hair follicles randomly developed from the involuting secondary follicles. The repeated development of hair follicles in this disordered hair cycle caused the development of chains of several continuous hair follicles in late‐stage TF. In the TF lesions, no features indicating the replacement of the regressing secondary hair follicles by any sebaceous elements were observed, thereby suggesting that FSCH is not a very‐late‐stage TF.