bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concurrent Van der Woude syndrome and Turner syndrome: A case report
Authors: Los Evan , Baines Hayley , Guttmann-Bauman Ines
Published: January 2017

Most cases of Van der Woude syndrome are caused by a mutation to interferon regulatory factor 6 on chromosome 1. Turner syndrome is caused by complete or partial absence of the second sex chromosome in girls. We describe a unique case of the two syndromes occurring concurrently though apparently independently in a girl with Van der Woude syndrome diagnosed at birth and Turner syndrome at 14 years 9 months. Short stature was initially misattributed to Van der Woude syndrome and pituitary insufficiency associated with clefts before correctly diagnosing Turner syndrome. We discuss the prevalence of delayed diagnosis of Turner syndrome, the rarity of reports of concurrent autosomal chromosome mutation and sex chromosome deletion, as well as the need to consider the diagnosis of Turner syndrome in all girls with short stature regardless of prior medical history.
Surgical treatment of left ventricular wall rupture, regarded as a consequence of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kudaiberdiev Taalaibek , Akhmedova Irina , Imanalieva Gulzada , Abdildaev Ildar , Jooshev Kilichbek , Ashimov Jamalbek , Mirzabekov Azamat , Gaybildaev Janibek
Published: January 2017

Objective:

We present the case of possible reverse type of TCM in a female patient presented with progressive left ventricular dysfunction and its rupture in pericardium.

Methods:

The detailed history, physical examination, laboratory tests, electrocardiography, serial echocardiography, coronary angiography with left ventriculography were performed to diagnose possible Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in 63-year old woman admitted to our center with complaints of dyspnea, lightheadedness, weakness and signs of hypotension and history of inferior myocardial infarction, acute left ventricular aneurysm, and effusive pericarditis and pleuritis, developed after emotional stress 5 months ago.

Results:

Clinical evaluation revealed unremarkable laboratory tests, normal troponin values, signs of old inferior myocardial infarction on electrocardiogram, and left ventricular (LV) dilatation and dysfunction, akinesia of LV infero-lateral wall with thinning and its rupture and blood shunting in pericardium. Her coronary angiography revealed normal coronary arteries. The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was excluded. The patient underwent surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass with removal of LV pseudoaneurysm. The patient was discharged from hospital with improvement in NYHA class and LV function.

Conclusion:

Thus, in female postmenopausal patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction signs complicated by pericarditis, intact coronary arteries and LV dysfunction with emotional stress as triggering factor, reverse type of TCM should be considered and proper management applied to prevent development of life-threatening complications like LV rupture.
Power interplay and newspaper digitization: Lessons from the Pengpai experiment
Authors: Peter Alain , Chen Mengshu , Carrasco Silvia
Published: January 2017

This study looks at Pengpai ( The Paper), the first news app launched in China by a traditional media organization, in order to understand how media practices in the context of contemporary China have shifted. The case of Pengpai, which was released in July 2014, is not only about economical and technological modernization but also relates to the re-negotiation of the relationship between the state, professionals and the public. Drawing on interviews with journalists, content analysis, a newsroom observation and Pengpai’s coverage of certain events, this research sheds light on the covert power interplay at work in newspaper digitization in China. The ambivalent accomplishment of Pengpai reveals the relationship between the state and journalists as a negotiation process that includes dialogue and conflict.
Centrality in the network of Regional Trade Agreements: Effects on the strategies of the Arctic claimant states
Authors: Valková Irena
Published: January 2017

This analysis differentiates two Arctic actors, Denmark and Russia, according to their centrality in the global Regional Trade Agreements network and the strength of their ties to other states in this system, in order to determine whether their positions coincide and have been stable throughout the last 24 years. The analysis reveals a significant stable heterogeneity between the Arctic actors not only in all three parameters of centrality (degree centrality, closeness centrality and betweenness centrality), but also in strength of the institutionalized ties these actors are involved in, and identifies the major sources of adjustment of regional (Arctic) policy preferences based on these global positions.
Determinants of Bank Foreign Direct Investment Inflow in India: A Dynamic Panel Data Approach
Authors: Massand Ajay B. , Gopalakrishna B.V.
Published: January 2017

India received highest foreign direct investment (FDI) in the world during the first half of 2015, leaving bigger economies like the US and China behind. In the process of globalization, India has liberalized all its sectors and invited FDI in most of the sectors, albeit with a sectoral cap. Internationalization of banks is perhaps the best example of India’s globalization. There are 44 foreign banks with 300 branches operating in India having a cap of 74 per cent and 20 per cent foreign investment in private and public sector banks, respectively. The present study aims to determine the motives behind bank FDI inflow into India. To accomplish that, a county-wise panel was constructed and bank FDI data from 2001 to 2013 was analyzed through generalized method of moments, a dynamic panel data model. The result of the study shows that bank FDI follows overall FDI, indicating that foreign banks follow their clients from their home country to serve them in the host country. However, locational advantages offer them profit-making opportunities and thus play a limited role in drawing bank FDI, which contribute to the development of the Indian economy. The argument that bank FDI inflow increases during a period of crisis is not relevant in the Indian context. The study suggests increasing the FDI cap in banking sector to attract more FDI and further relax the current restrictive policy on entry of foreign banks in India.
Testing the CO2 Emissions Convergence: Evidence from Asian Countries
Authors: Tiwari Chhavi , Mishra Mrutyunjay
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this article is to examine the convergence in CO2 emissions across 18 Asian countries over the period of 1972–2010, based on data obtained from World Development Indicators. The study used β and σ convergence for parametric tests and kernel density estimates for non-parametric tests of convergence hypothesis and found convergence in CO2 emission in all the tests. More recent trends have been considered for the tests rather than the long-term trends in CO2 convergence. During the initial period (i.e., 1972–1982 and 1982–1992), the values, although converging, are not significantly depending upon the previous period. In contrast, the results for recent decades show convergence in CO2 emissions significantly. Sigma (σ) convergence estimates also indicates that variation declined more in recent decades. Thus, the empirical findings of the study fulfil the major tests of convergence and provide evidence that many Asian countries’ relative per capita CO2 emissions are converging over time. The study suggests that these results should be looked at in multilateral negotiation agreements.
On Empirical Distribution of RCA Indices
Authors: Deb Kaveri , Sengupta Bodhisattva
Published: January 2017

Revealed comparative advantage (RCA) indices form an integral part of the application of trade theory. The indices help in identifying the comparative advantage or disadvantages of countries in various products and thus aid the policy makers in formulation of policies oriented towards export expansion. However, given the application of such indices as a cardinal or ordinal measure over time, an important question that arises is how reliable such indices are for the said purposes. In this regard, the stability of index distributions has important implications for applicability of the indices as a cardinal or ordinal measure over time. This article, therefore, makes an important contribution to the literature by trying to analyze the stability of empirical distributions of RCA indices and identify the index that would be most reliable as a cardinal or ordinal measure, among alternative RCA indices suggested in the literature.
Intraoperative evaluation of the effects of femoral component offset and head size on joint stability in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Jinno Tetsuya , Koga Daisuke , Asou Yoshinori , Morita Sadao , Okawa Atsushi , Muneta Takeshi
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate intraoperatively the effects of femoral offset and head size on stability of the hip joints in total hip arthroplasty (THA) via posterior approach.

Methods:

Thirty cementless THAs were included in this study. After acetabular shell and femoral broach fixation, trial reduction was repeated using a femoral neck (5- to 8-mm higher or standard offset) and a head (26 mm or 32 mm). To evaluate joint stability, range of internal rotation (IR) in hip flexion prior to posterior subluxation and range of external rotation (ER) in hip extension were measured.

Results:

The high-offset neck provided significantly (approximately 10°) greater range of IR to subluxation than the standard-offset neck. No hips ended in anterior subluxation by ER. The head size did not have significant effects on the stability.

Conclusion:

Results suggest that the 5- to 8-mm greater femoral offset might be effective in preventing instability in primary THA.
Effect of the additional first ray osteotomy on hindfoot alignment after calcaneal osteotomy for the correction of mild-to-moderate adult type pes plano-valgus
Authors: Choi Jun Young , Cha Seong Mu , Yeom Ji Woong , Suh Jin Soo
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To determine the effect of the additional first ray osteotomy on hindfoot alignment for the correction of pes plano-valgus.

Methods:

Data obtained from 37 consecutive patients recruited from 2006 to 2014 who underwent medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy (MDCO) alone (group H) or MDCO followed by medial cuneiform opening wedge osteotomy (MCOWO) (group HF) with a minimum 1-year follow-up were reviewed retrospectively. The mean follow-up periods were 34 and 32 months.

Results:

Degree of decrease of Talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA) via surgery or postoperative TNCA on standing foot AP radiographs were not significantly different between group H and HF ( p = 0.287). The calcaneal pitch angle and medial cuneiform height on the standing foot lateral radiographs was significantly increased after operation in group HF ( p = 0.01), there was a significant difference with group H as well ( p = 0.033). In group HF, the Meary’s angle was significantly decreased after operation, a significant difference compared to group H ( p = 0.009). Hindfoot alignment angle on the hindfoot alignment view was decreased after operation in both groups but was not significantly different between both groups ( p = 0.410). Hindfoot alignment ratio was also increased after the operation in both groups, but was not different between two groups ( p = 0.783).

Conclusion:

The additional first ray osteotomy using MCOWO had no correctional power for hindfoot correction, although it caused improvement in some radiographic parameters.
Intra-articular Implantation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Part 1
Authors: Kraeutler Matthew J. , Mitchell Justin J. , Chahla Jorge , McCarty Eric C. , Pascual-Garrido Cecilia
Published: January 2017

Osteoarthritis (OA) after a partial or total meniscectomy procedure is a common pathology. Because of the high incidence of meniscectomy in the general population, as well as the significant burden of knee OA, there is increasing interest in determining methods for delaying postmeniscectomy OA. Biological therapies, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), have been proposed as possible therapies that could delay OA in this and other settings. Several studies in various animal models have evaluated the effect of injecting MSCs into the knee joints of animals with OA induced either by meniscal excision with or without anterior cruciate ligament transection. When compared with control groups receiving injections without progenitor cells, short-term benefits in the experimental groups have been reported. In human subjects, there are limited data to determine the effect of biological therapies for use in delaying or preventing the onset of OA after a meniscectomy procedure. The purpose of this review is to highlight the findings in the presently available literature on the use of intra-articular implantation of MSCs postmeniscectomy and to offer suggestions for future research with the goal of delaying or treating early OA postmeniscectomy with MSCs.
Prevention of Hamstring Injuries in Collegiate Sprinters
Authors: Sugiura Yusaku , Sakuma Kazuhiko , Sakuraba Keishoku , Sato Yamato
Published: January 2017

Background:

No studies have been reported on how strength, agility, and flexibility training reduce the occurrence of hamstring injuries in sprinters. Therefore, a program for preventing hamstring injury in these athletes has not been established.

Purpose:

To document the incidence of hamstring injuries during times when different prevention strategies were employed to see whether a particular prevention program reduced their occurrence.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

The study subjects were a total of 613 collegiate male sprinters trained by the same coach over 24 seasons. Tow training was used throughout the research period as a normal sprint training method. The hamstring injury prevention program evolved over time. From 1988 to 1991 (period 1), prevention focused on strength training alone; from 1992 to 1999 (period 2), a combination of strength and agility training was used; and from 2000 to 2011 (period 3), the program incorporated strength, agility, and flexibility training. The incidence of hamstring injuries was compared for each of the 3 prevention strategies.

Results:

The incidence of hamstring injuries per athlete-seasons was 137.9 for period 1, 60.6 for period 2, and 6.7 for period 3. A significant difference was observed in the incidence of hamstring injury according to the different prevention programs (χ2(2) = 31.78, P < .001, effect size: Cramer V = 0.23, 1 − β = 0.999). Residual analysis showed that the number of hamstring injuries for period 1 was significantly greater than the expected value ( P < .01), whereas that for period 3 was significantly lower than the expected value ( P < .01).

Conclusion:

The incidence of hamstring injuries in sprinters decreased as agility and flexibility were added to strength training.
Temporary Efficacy of Pyrimethamine in Juvenile-Onset Tay-Sachs Disease Caused by 2 Unreported HEXA Mutations in the Indian Population
Authors: Udwadia-Hegde Anaita , Hajirnis Omkar
Published: January 2017

Background:

Juvenile Tay-Sachs disease is rarer than other forms of Tay-Sachs disease and is usually seen in children between the age of 2 and 10 years. Pyrimethamine as a pharmacological chaperone was used to increase β-hexosaminidase A activity in this patient.

Patient:

We describe a patient with Tay-Sachs disease from the Indian population, a juvenile case who presented with developmental regression starting at the age of three, initially with motor followed by language regression. She is currently incapacitated with severe behavioral issues.

Conclusion:

This brief communication gives an insight into the efficacy of pharmacological chaperones. It also describes two unreported mutations in hexosaminidase A gene from the Indian population. After commencing Pyrimethamine, though initial benefits with increase in levels corresponded with briefly halting the motor regression, the observed increase was only transient and not associated with discernible beneficial neurological or psychiatric effects.
Strategic Communication in the C-Suite
Authors: Argenti Paul A.
Published: January 2017

This article explores the ways in which C-suite executives are using corporate communications to execute strategy. Over the past two decades, we have seen a profound shift in how leaders view communications within organizations. This shift has moved from a tactical and superficial focus (speech writing, media placements) to a more strategic and elevated level (developing and implementing strategy through communication, sophisticated measurement using big data to understand constituencies and influence reputation). Thus, the central research question in this article is focused on the following theme: “How do leaders use communications to execute strategy in the 21st century?” Through a review of current literature on the topic and synthesis of both published and newly conducted interviews, the article provides a snapshot of leadership communication in organizations today as it relates to the execution of strategy.
Tackling the Survey: A Learning-by-Induction Design
Authors: Witte Anne E.
Published: January 2017

Free online survey tools provide a practical learning-by-induction platform for business communication instructors interested in trying out an advanced multidisciplinary survey activity coupled with an innovative teaching design. More than just building skills in marketing, survey projects marshal a wider set of thinking and doing activities that build student competency in the interrelated disciplines of communication, consumer analysis, and research. The design and sequence of a survey-learning module are outlined as well as expected learning outcomes, assessment considerations, and suggestions for exploring the interdisciplinary opportunities that surveys afford.
A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Additional Benefit of a Multistrain Synbiotic (Prodefen®) in the Clinical Management of Acute Viral Diarrhea in Children
Authors: García-Menor Emilia , García-Marín Fátima , Vecino-López Raquel , Horcajo-Martínez Gloria , de Ibarrondo Guerrica-Echevarría María-José , Gómez-González Pedro , Velasco-Ortega Syra , Suárez-Almarza Javier , Nieto-Magro Concepción
Published: January 2017

This randomized, open-label study evaluated the additional benefits of the synbiotic Prodefen® in the clinical management of acute diarrhea of suspected viral origin in children between 6 months and 12 years of age. Study outcomes included the duration of diarrhea, the recovery from diarrhea, and the tolerability and acceptance of the treatment. The proportion of patients without diarrhea over the study period was greater in the synbiotic group than in the control group at all study time points, showing a statistically significant difference on the fifth day (95% vs 79%, p < 0.001). The duration of diarrhea (median and interquartile range) was reduced by 1 day in the synbiotic-treated patients (3 [2-5] vs 4 [3-5], p = 0.377). The tolerability of the treatment regimen, as evaluated by the parents, was significantly better in those receiving the synbiotic than in the control group. Overall, 96% of the parents of children receiving the synbiotic reported being satisfied to very satisfied with the treatment regimen. The results of this study indicate that the addition of the synbiotic Prodefen® is a well-tolerated and well-accepted approach that provides an additional benefit to the standard supportive therapy in the management of acute viral diarrhea in children.
Pediatric Hypovitaminosis D
Authors: Ariganjoye Rafiu
Published: January 2017

Vitamin D, a secosteroid, is essential for the development and maintenance of healthy bone in both the adult and pediatric populations. Low level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-(OH)-D) is highly prevalent in children worldwide and has been linked to various adverse health outcomes including rickets, osteomalacia, osteomalacic myopathy, sarcopenia, and weakness, growth retardation, hypocalcemia, seizure and tetany, autism, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, cancers (prostate, colon, breast), infectious diseases (viral, tuberculosis), and autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Risk factors for hypovitaminosis D are people with darker skin pigmentation, use of sunscreen, insufficient ultraviolet B exposure, prematurity, living in northern latitudes, malnutrition, obesity, exclusive breastfeeding, low maternal vitamin D level, certain medications, drinking unfortified cow’s milk, liver failure, chronic renal insufficiency, cystic fibrosis, asthma, and sickle cell hemoglobinopathy. This review highlights and summarizes the molecular perspectives of vitamin D deficiency and its potential adverse health outcomes in pediatric age groups. The recommended treatment regimen is beyond the scope of this review.
The Missiology of Pearl Sydenstricker Buck
Authors: Chung Soojin
Published: January 2017

Pearl Sydenstricker Buck’s fame as a novelist (best known for her beloved book The Good Earth) often overshadowed her original vocation as a Presbyterian missionary and her later role as a social activist. Her Christian values, however, provided an important foundation for humanitarian works. This article underscores her identity as a missionary and a humanitarian who formed a bridge between the East and the West. To understand her theology and worldviews, one must situate her within the rise of Protestant liberalism and emerging ecumenical Christianity. The first half of the article delineates her life, and the second half expounds on her missiology in close conjunction with her peer William E. Hocking.
Management and Outcome of Rhinosinusitis in Nigeria
Authors: Afolabi Olushola Abdulrahman , Alabi Biodun Sulyman , Omokanye Habeeb Kayodele , Ayodele Samuel O. , Segun‐Busari Segun , Dunmade Adekunle D. , Ologe Foluwasayo Emmanuel
Published: January 2017

Objective

The aim of this study is to present the management and outcome of treatment of rhinosinusitis in Nigeria.

Study Design

A retrospective review of the case notes of patients with rhinosinusitis between January 2009 and December 2014.

Setting

Study at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, using retrieved case notes after ethical approval was received.

Subjects and Methods

The information retrieved included sociodemographic data, clinical presentation, duration, endoscopic examination, and other clinical management protocols with follow‐up. All information was entered into SPSS version 20 and analyzed descriptively, and results are presented in tables and figure.

Results

A total of 5618 patients were seen in the ear, nose, and throat clinic over the 6‐year period. Of the patients, 445 had rhinosinusitis, and only 410 had complete data for analysis. Patient age ranged from 2 to 75 years (mean ± SD, 31.8 ± 1.2 years). The male to female ratio was 1.2:1. The duration of symptoms varied from 3 days to 10 years, with 78.7% having symptoms between 3 and 120 months. About 82.4% had nasal discharge, 51.3% had sneezing, 78.9% had alternating nasal obstruction, and 49.3% had nasal itch. Of the patients, 61.4% had a predisposition, of which 30.9% were allergic, 23.3% were infective, and 7.2% were vasomotor. Ethmoidal‐maxillary sinuses were commonly affected radiologically. About 63% of patients had medical treatment, and only 28.7% had surgical intervention, of which 37% were scheduled for surgical treatment and 7.3% refused. Improved symptoms were noticed in 72.6% of patients, and 1.4% reported no improvement.

Conclusion

Rhinosinusitis is still common, affecting active males economically with more chronic cases and more allergic predisposition. Early medical management is still effective, and endoscopic sinus surgery is now a better surgical option with better outcome in 72.6%.
Sclerotherapy of Hydroceles
Authors: Lacalamita Stephanie Brill , Lee Mary
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To provide an overview of the indications, actions, efficacy, and safety of various sclerosants for medical treatment of hydroceles.

Data Sources:

Pertinent English-language literature dealing with human studies was retrieved from a MEDLINE search (1966–1994); search terms were sclerosant and hydrocele.

Study Selection:

All English-language clinical trials of sclerotherapy in males with hydroceles were selected. Studies included open, noncomparative study designs because of limitations of published literature. Case reports also were included if they addressed use or safety of sclerosants. Both authors reviewed all cited literature.

Data Extraction:

Data were extracted and analyzed if the information was relevant and consistent. Independent extraction was performed by both authors.

Data Synthesis:

Tetracycline, ethanolamine oleate, sodium tetradecyl sulfate, phenol, antazoline, polidocanol, and bismuth phosphate all have been used as sclerosants for hydroceles. All appear to have comparable efficacy; however, they differ in adverse effects. Severe pain upon injection into the scrotum has been reported with bismuth phosphate; pain is least common with phenol, antazoline, and polidocanol. Allergic reactions have occurred with phenol and tetracycline. Sodium tetradecyl sulfate may impair fertility.

Conclusions:

The most experience over the longest period of time is with tetracycline; however, the parenteral formulation was removed from the commercial market in 1992. Alternative agents with comparable efficacy that are available in the US include ethanolamine oleate, sodium tetradecyl sulfate, and phenol.
Migration of an Atrial Septal Occluder Device to the Transverse Aortic Arch Detected With Echocardiography
Authors: Kallstrom Eric , Kallus Elizabeth , Bakshi Sahil
Published: January 2017

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) are one of the most common heart defects diagnosed in the adult population. If left unrepaired, they may lead to significant complications including right heart volume overload, pulmonary complications, and heart failure. Percutaneous transcatheter closure by use of an occluder device is clinically indicated for most patients with a secundum ASD and who are symptomatic. Although this procedure is safe, in rare instances, complications may be encountered, including atrial wall perforation, arrhythmias, and, in very rare instances, device migration. Echocardiography has become a widely used and reliable form of patient imaging that relies on the skillset of the sonographer as well as the interpreting physician. This case study illustrates the specific role of the cardiac sonographer in taking a careful clinical history, imaging of an ASD occluder device, and its location as it migrated into the aortic arch. This case also demonstrates the importance of imaging beyond the standard echocardiographic protocol, given this clinical manifestation.
Discourse and the study of organization: Toward a structurational perspective
Authors: Heracleous Loizos , Hendry John
Published: January 2017

Existing approaches to organizational discourse, which we label as 'managerialist', 'interpretive' and 'critical', either privilege agency at the expense of structure or the other way around. This tension reflects that between approaches to discourse in the social sciences more generally but is sharper in the organizational context, where discourse is typically temporally and contextually specific and imbued with attributions of instrumental intent. As the basis for a more sophisticated understanding of organizational discourse, we draw on the work of Giddens to develop a structurational conceptualization in which discourse is viewed as a duality of communicative actions and structural properties, recursively linked through the modality of actors' interpretive schemes. We conclude by exploring some of the theoretical implications of this conceptualization and its consequences for the methodology of organizational discourse analysis.abs>
Cultural values and management ethics: A 10-nation study
Authors: Jackson Terence
Published: January 2017

There is currently a lack of empirical work on cross-cultural differences in ethical attitudes towards day-to-day management decision-making in organizations. Work that currently exists in the area of management ethics also lacks cultural explanations of differences. The present study tries to overcome these deficiencies by providing a model of ethical decision-making that is based on cultural antecedents, which may explain differences in judgements of ethicality, and consequential ethical attitudes or professed behaviour. This article reports a 10-nation empirical study that focuses on ethical 'grey areas' that form part of the day-to-day decision-making in organizations across the globe. Countries were selected to represent variation along two cultural dimensions of 'collectivism-individualism', and 'uncertainty avoidance'. These dimensions were then used to explain national cultural differences in judgements of ethicality of decision items concerned with relations with external stakeholders, with the corporation and with the group. Results generally confirm that these dimensions, once elaborated to consider more recent detailed research, provide explanations for differences in ethical attitudes among national groups. This study points the way to further investigations based on cultural explanations of differences in managers' ethical attitudes and behaviour.
Learning together and apart: A model of reciprocal interfirm learning
Authors: Lubatkin Michael , Florin Juan , Lane Peter
Published: January 2017

This article reviews the processes involved in interfirm learning and identifies an alternative form of alliance in which the objective is knowledge creation, not knowledge acquisition or transfer. Grounded on theories from sociology (relational governance) and educational psychology (jigsaw), the article develops an evolutionary model in which successive learning cycles of convergence, divergence, and reorientation facilitate knowledge creation and innovation.
The genetics and molecular biology of T-ALL
Authors: Girardi Tiziana , Vicente Carmen , Cools Jan , De Keersmaecker Kim
Published: January 2017

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive malignancy caused by the accumulation of genomic lesions that affect the development of T cells. For many years, it has been established that deregulated expression of transcription factors, impairment of the CDKN2A/2B cell-cycle regulators, and hyperactive NOTCH1 signaling play prominent roles in the pathogenesis of this leukemia. In the past decade, systematic screening of T-ALL genomes by high-resolution copy-number arrays and next-generation sequencing technologies has revealed that T-cell progenitors accumulate additional mutations affecting JAK/STAT signaling, protein translation, and epigenetic control, providing novel attractive targets for therapy. In this review, we provide an update on our knowledge of T-ALL pathogenesis, the opportunities for the introduction of targeted therapy, and the challenges that are still ahead.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Decreased expression of miR-939 contributes to chemoresistance and metastasis of gastric cancer via dysregulation of SLC34A2 and Raf/MEK/ERK pathway
Authors: Zhang Jia-Xing , Xu Yi , Gao Ying , Chen Cui , Zheng Zhou-San , Yun Miao , Weng Hui-Wen , Xie Dan , Ye Sheng
Published: January 2017

Background

The development of chemoresistance and metastasis are the leading causes of death for gastric cancer (GC) patients, however, the molecular mechanisms involved remain unclear. Dysregulation of miRNAs is associated with a variety of disease, including GC. Recently, microarray profiling analysis revealed that miR-939 was dysregulated in human GC samples, but the role of miR-939 in GC has not been intensively investigated.

Methods

In the present study, we firstly examined the expression pattern of miR-939 in two independent cohorts of clinical GC samples: one cohort of 112 GC patients with stage I-III disease who underwent surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy; and another cohort of 110 GC patients with stage IV disease who received palliative chemotherapy. A series of in vivo and in vitro assays were then performed to investigate the function of miR-939 in GC.

Results

We detected that reduced expression of miR-939 was associated with chemoresistance and increased risk of tumor recurrence in GC patients. Further function study demonstrated that overexpression of miR-939 suppressed GC cell growth, and enhanced 5-fluorouracil-induced chemosensitivity by compromising cellular growth and inducing apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, miR-939 repressed the migration and invasion of GC cells in vitro, and diminished the occurrence of lung metastasis in vivo. We further identified solute carrier family 34 member 2 (SLC34A2) was a novel target of miR-939. Mechanistically, we elucidated that miR-939 exerted its function mainly through inhibiting SLC34A2/Raf/MEK/ERK pathway, which is activated in GC. Multivariate analysis identified miR-939, SLC34A2, and their combination as independent indicators for poor prognosis and tumor recurrence in GC patients.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that miR-939 acts as a tumor suppressor miRNA in GC, and miR-939/SLC34A2 axis represents a novel therapeutic strategy for future GC treatment.
Quantitative microscopy uncovers ploidy changes during mitosis in liveDrosophilaembryos and their effect on nuclear size
Authors: Puah Wee Choo , Chinta Rambabu , Wasser Martin
Published: January 2017

Time-lapse microscopy is a powerful tool to investigate cellular and developmental dynamics. In Drosophila melanogaster, it can be used to study division cycles in embryogenesis. To obtain quantitative information from 3D time-lapse data and track proliferating nuclei from the syncytial stage until gastrulation, we developed an image analysis pipeline consisting of nuclear segmentation, tracking, annotation and quantification. Image analysis of maternal-haploid (mh) embryos revealed that a fraction of haploid syncytial nuclei fused to give rise to nuclei of higher ploidy (2n, 3n, 4n). Moreover, nuclear densities in mh embryos at the mid-blastula transition varied over threefold. By tracking synchronized nuclei of different karyotypes side-by-side, we show that DNA content determines nuclear growth rate and size in early, while the nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio constrains nuclear growth during late interphase. mh encodes the Drosophila ortholog of human Spartan, a protein involved in DNA damage tolerance. To explore the link between mh and chromosome instability, we fluorescently tagged Mh protein to study its subcellular localization. We show Mh-mKO2 localizes to nuclear speckles that increase in numbers as nuclei expand in interphase. In summary, quantitative microscopy can provide new insights into well-studied genes and biological processes.
Retinal temporal resolution and contrast sensitivity in the parasitic lampreyMordacia mordaxand its non-parasitic derivativeM.praecox
Authors: Warrington Rachael E. , Hart Nathan S. , Potter Ian C. , Collin Shaun P. , Hemmi Jan M.
Published: January 2017

Lampreys and hagfishes are the sole extant representatives of the early agnathan (jawless) vertebrates. We compared retinal function of fully-metamorphosed, immature Mordacia mordax (which are about to commence parasitic feeding) with those of sexually-mature individuals of its non-parasitic derivative M. praecox. We focused on elucidating the retinal adaptations to dim-light environments in these nocturnally-active lampreys, using electroretinography to determine the temporal resolution (flicker fusion frequency, FFF) and temporal contrast sensitivity (CS) of enucleated eyecups at different temperatures and light intensities. FFF was significantly affected by temperature and light intensity. Critical flicker fusion frequency (cFFF, the highest FFF recorded) of M. praecox and M. mordax increased from 15.1 and 21.8 Hz at 9°C to 31.1 and 36.9 Hz at 24°C, respectively. CS of both species increased by an order of magnitude between 9 and 24°C, but remained comparatively constant across all light intensities. Although FFF values for Mordacia spp. are relatively low, retinal responses showed a particularly high contrast sensitivity of 625 in M. praecox and 710 in M. mordax at 24°C. This suggests selective pressures favour low temporal resolution and high contrast sensitivity in both species, thereby enhancing the capture of photons and increasing sensitivity in their light-limited environments. FFF indicated all retinal photoreceptors exhibit the same temporal response. Although the slow response kinetics (i.e., low FFF) and saturation of the response at bright light intensities characterise the photoreceptors of both species as rod-like, it is unusual for such a photoreceptor to be functional under scotopic and photopic conditions.
Empoderamento ou mudança de situação financeira? Um estudo com beneficiárias do Programa Bolsa Família
Authors: Barros Valeria Rezende Freitas , Melo Marlene Catarina de Oliveira Lopes
Published: January 2017

Com base nas políticas públicas brasileiras quanto ao empoderamento no contexto das relações de gênero, buscou-se analisar se o Programa Bolsa Família (PBF) impacta o empoderamento de mulheres beneficiárias em um município mineiro, na percepção delas. Esta pesquisa caracterizou-se como descritiva, de campo, com abordagem qualitativa, tendo como unidade de análise mulheres beneficiárias desse programa e como sujeitos da pesquisa 12 beneficiárias. Revelou-se que as mudanças desencadeadas pelo PBF na vida das mulheres restringiram-se a melhorias em sua situação financeira e no consumo das famílias, além de lhes garantir certa independência financeira. Observou-se que as oportunidades de emprego dessas mulheres ainda são pequenas, mas não há uma movimentação delas para reduzir essa condição de desigualdade. Assim, concluiu-se que o PBF não trouxe empoderamento no sentido amplo para as beneficiárias.
O que é um tribunal de contas? Estudo sob a perspectiva popular, em Curitiba (PR)
Authors: Souza Saulo Aparecido de
Published: January 2017

O objetivo deste estudo é analisar o entendimento sobre o tribunal de contas segundo a visão dos populares da sociedade civil em Curitiba (PR). Após breve caracterização desses tribunais, apresentou-se uma perspectiva teórica que concebe a reputação organizacional como as associações mentais sobre a organização retidas pelas pessoas de fora dela. Foi realizado um levantamento com 307 participantes que responderam à questão: “Em sua opinião, o que é um tribunal de contas?”. As respostas foram analisadas por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo e agrupadas em categorias. Os resultados indicam que os populares consideram o tribunal de contas, em ordem decrescente de frequência, como órgão fiscalizador (onde se prestam contas), gestor de recursos, analista de contas, solucionador de contas e julgador de contas. Conclui-se que o tribunal de contas é visto predominantemente como órgão fiscalizador, apesar de haver elevado nível de desconhecimento sobre suas atribuições.
Public affairs at the crossroads of meanings
Authors: Spink Mary Jane Paris
Published: January 2017

The provision of water in the municipality of São Paulo depends on a system of reservoirs, of which two are particularly important: Cantareira, located in the north, and Guarapiranga-Billings, in the southern part of the city. Preservation of the headwaters of both systems is at present in conflict with the urgent need for housing, especially in the case of poorer sectors of the population that depend on informal settlements or social housing systems. This article derives from research carried out in the region where the headwaters of the Guarapiranga reservoir are located. It has a double aim. On one hand, it traces how environmental protection of the reservoir area has become a governmental issue; on the other hand, based on interviews and ethnographic approaches, it aims to discuss how environmental protection issues are dealt with on a day-to-day basis.
UNESCO monographs in the making of cultural policy
Authors: Silva Gabriela Toledo
Published: January 2017

Between 1969 and 1987, UNESCO published a series of 77 monographs on aspects related to cultural policies of individual countries. Each monograph mobilized cultural policy in very particular ways, by its association with local issues, increasing awareness and communication about issues that formerly had never been grouped together under this label. Based on primary documents concerning the monographs, in this article I show that their production involved the articulation of a network of narratives, repertoires, documents, and publics that contributed to the development of a language of cultural policy, which became a frequent way to talk about and perform public actions related to culture in different places around the globe.
State of care: Learning lessons
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: January 2017

The recent Care Quality Commission report, State of Care, paints a rich but mixed picture of primary care in England. Helena Frankova looks at the highlights and lessons that can be learnt by practice managers
The right to strike: Under threat?
Authors: McFarlane Paul
Published: January 2017

The Southern Rail dispute has escalated in recent weeks, with a three-day walk out leading to a reported loss of almost 40% of services. Will the new rules on strikes in the Trade Union Act 2016 change things? What could all this mean for general practice?
Remove White Coat Syndrome
Authors: Taylor Pamela
Published: January 2017

A smartphone pilot study has highlighted a potential solution for White Coat Syndrome – the medical phenomenon responsible for sending some patients' blood pressure soaring in the GP surgery…
A pre-emptive strike
Authors: Martin David
Published: January 2017

Regular reviews of your partnership agreements are – or should be – on your agenda but it's a job that often gets put on the back burner. David Martin explains why you should act
A fundamental flaw
Authors: Bennett Luke
Published: January 2017

Accountant Luke Bennett offers some tips on the new contractual requirement to publish GP earnings online
Out on a limb?
Authors: Spencer Mark
Published: January 2017

General practice must not be viewed in isolation, says GP Mark Spencer
Safeguarding confidential information
Authors: Beamish Camilla
Published: January 2017

Camilla Beamish gives an overview of the steps GP practices need to take to ensure information is kept confidential
Light in the dark: Bereavement support
Authors: Potts Shirley
Published: January 2017

Shirley Potts from Child Bereavement UK suggests that, in an era of health improvement and ill-health prevention, bereavement support should be a prime consideration for both parents and children
Speech of sound: Going digital to increase efficiency
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: January 2017

Anything that can be used to reduce the burden of data entry into clinical systems is to be welcomed, meaning there is great potential for speech recognition, says Adam Bernstein
Leave or remain?
Authors: Taylor Stuart
Published: January 2017

Brexit arguments are raising questions that may well have differing impacts on our NHS, says Stuart Taylor
Protecting your patients and staff from infection
Authors: Kelly Robert
Published: January 2017

Wherever you work in the health service, be it a hospital, GP surgery, care home or dentist, establishing and maintaining an infection control programme is key in the management of potential exposure to infections for staff and clients alike
The best start: World Breastfeeding Week
Authors: Moffat Polly
Published: January 2017

There is clear evidence to show breastfeeding is key to providing children with the best start in life. World Breastfeeding Week takes place from 1–7 August 2016 to raise awareness and encourage countries across the globe to improve breastfeeding rates
GP practice mergers: A guide to success
Authors: Martin David
Published: January 2017

The NHS Five Year Forward View set out the need for practices to come together to explore new, innovative ways of delivering primary care at scale. David Martin explains how practices can manage the merger process
Wellbeing in the workplace
Authors: Moffat Polly
Published: January 2017

The high cost of stress and absence to organisations through high turnover, absenteeism, low morale and reduced productivity has been well documented. What can managers do to encourage health and wellbeing at work?
Top ten questions: Japanese encephalitis
Authors: Umeed Margaret
Published: January 2017

Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious condition that can cause lasting brain damage. Margaret Umeed offers advice on preventing the disease and sourcing the appropriate vaccine
Good practice: Leading by example
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: January 2017

The CQC recent report on the state of health and adult social care in England 2015/6 provides a host of good practice ideas that can be put into place by GP surgeries. Helena Frankova highlights a few striking examples to inspire improvement
Speak up! Supporting whistleblowing
Authors: Hancock Dave
Published: January 2017

NHS England has issued a call for primary care providers to support whistleblowing. Dave Hancock looks at its guidance and what NHS managers will be required to do to support staff reporting concerns about practice
Medical reports: Saving time and money
Authors: Hodson Nathan
Published: January 2017

GP practices are frequently asked to produce medical reports describing the health of a patient. Nathan Hodson provides an overview of an intervention to improve the experience of patients and staff, saving the practice both time and money
Practice fined for data breach
Authors: Cumberlege Justin
Published: January 2017

Failing to protect patients' personal data can have serious consequences for GP practices, warns healthcare specialist Justin Cumberlege of law firm Cripps
Rising 15 to 19 suicide rates spark a focus on self-harm
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: January 2017

With more young teens taking their own lives and thousands self-harming, the National Suicide Prevention Strategy expands its remit
Generation no hope?
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: January 2017

From Brexit to Trump and the economy to school life, research suggests young people are under pressure and anxious about the future. Karen Sullivan asks how we can help them
Progress 8: An update
Authors: Baldwin Duncan
Published: January 2017

Progress 8 – Duncan Baldwin presents the story so far and what to do (and what not to do) next
The shirking bureaucrat: a theory in search of evidence?
Authors: Pierre Jon , Peters B Guy
Published: January 2017

The article addresses the issue of public sector work motivation, particular the notion of bureaucratic ‘shirking’. Although a popular theoretical model among public choice scholars of public administration, the ‘shirking’ argument has not been empirically supported. The article compares two organisational models of ensuring public servants’ compliance; a contract regime which is common in public-interest-based, Anglo American countries, and a trust-based regime found in Continental European, Scandinavian and Asian administrative systems.
Mainstreaming in response to superdiversity? The governance of migration-related diversity in France, the UK and the Netherlands
Authors: van Breugel Ilona , Scholten Peter
Published: January 2017

This article examines mainstreaming as a governance strategy in immigrant integration governance. Diversity mainstreaming involves a whole society approach for raising awareness about migrationrelated diversity, mobilising a network of actors to embed diversity across policy areas. Bringing together the literature on superdiversity, policy targeting and governance mainstreaming this article examines empirically whether, and if so, why, and how, mainstreaming is applied as a governance strategy in France, the Netherlands and the UK. Based on a qualitative policy analysis covering the period 2000–14, we find mainstreaming ‘incomplete’ and driven by political and economic motives rather than considerations of superdiversity.