bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Recovery Pathways for Improving Outcomes After Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Oncology Surgery
Authors: Chapman Jocelyn S. , Roddy Erika , Ueda Stefanie , Brooks Rebecca , Chen Lee-lynn , Chen Lee-may
Published: June 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To estimate whether an enhanced recovery after surgery pathway facilitates early recovery and discharge in gynecologic oncology patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective case–control study. Consecutive gynecologic oncology patients undergoing laparoscopic or robotic surgery between July 1 and November 5, 2014, were treated on an enhanced recovery pathway. Enhanced recovery pathway components included patient education, multimodal analgesia, opioid minimization, nausea prophylaxis as well as early catheter removal, ambulation, and feeding. Cases were matched in a one-to-two ratio with historical control patients on the basis of surgery type and age. Primary endpoints were length of hospital stay, rates of discharge by noon, 30-day hospital readmission rates, and hospital costs.

RESULTS:

There were 165 patients included in the final cohort, 55 of whom were enhanced recovery pathway patients. Enhanced recovery patients were more likely to be discharged on postoperative day 1 compared with patients in the control group (91% compared with 60%, P<.001, odds ratio 6.7, 95% confidence interval 2.46–18.04). Fifteen percent of enhanced recovery patients achieved discharge by noon compared with 4% of historical control patients (P=.03). Postoperative pain scores decreased (2.6 compared with 3.12, P=.03) despite a 30% reduction in opioid use. Average total hospital costs were decreased by 12% in the enhanced recovery group ($13,771 compared with $15,649, P=.01). Readmission rates, mortality, and reoperation rates did not differ between the two groups.

CONCLUSION:

An enhanced recovery pathway in patients undergoing gynecologic oncology minimally invasive surgery is associated with significant improvements in recovery time, decreased pain despite reduced opioid use, and overall lower hospital costs.
Pregnancy Intentions and Safer Pregnancy Knowledge Among Female Sex Workers in Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Authors: Rao Amrita , Baral Stefan , Phaswana-Mafuya Nancy , Lambert Andrew , Kose Zamakayise , Mcingana Mfezi , Holland Claire , Ketende Sosthenes , Schwartz Sheree
Published: June 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the association between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and pregnancy intentions and safer conception knowledge among female sex workers in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

METHODS:

This cross-sectional study recruited female sex workers in Port Elizabeth using respondent-driven sampling and completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire alongside HIV testing and counseling. In this secondary analysis, robust Poisson regression was used to model prevalence ratios for positive fertility intentions in this cross-sectional study. Knowledge of safer conception methods by HIV status was compared using Fisher exact tests.

RESULTS:

Overall 391 women were represented in the analyses. More than 50% had a prior HIV diagnosis, and an additional 12% were diagnosed with HIV during the study. Approximately half (n=185) of the women reported future pregnancy intentions. In univariate analysis, a prior HIV diagnosis was negatively associated with pregnancy intentions as compared with HIV-negative women (prevalence ratio 0.68, 95% confidence interval 0.55–0.85). Only parity remained independently associated with future pregnancy intentions in multivariate regression after controlling for HIV status, age, race, relationship status, and years selling sex. Knowledge of safer conception methods such as timed sex without a condom, preexposure prophylaxis, or self-insemination was low and similar between those with and without future pregnancy plans.

CONCLUSION:

Pregnancy intentions did not significantly vary according to HIV status. Fertility intentions were high, however, and knowledge of safer conception methods low, suggesting a need to provide female sex workers with advice around options to conceive safely in the context of high HIV prevalence.
Prescription of Hormonal Contraception by Pharmacists in Oregon
Authors: Rodriguez Maria I. , Anderson Lorinda , Edelman Alison B.
Published: June 2016

Prescription of hormonal contraception by pharmacists, without a doctor's visit or authorization, has been proposed as a strategy to improve access to contraception and reduce unintended pregnancy. Oregon is the first state to implement legislation expanding the scope of pharmacists to directly prescribe and dispense short-acting hormonal contraception (pill and patch). Several other states are considering similar legislation. Implementation of the policy is being researched to identify both barriers and facilitators to the successful dissemination of the practice and to determine the safety, efficacy, and acceptability of pharmacist-prescribed contraception.
A comparative study for the treatment of simple bone cysts of the humerus: open curettage and bone grafting either without instrumentation or with intramedullary nailing
Authors: Erol Bülent , Onay Tolga , Topkar Osman M. , Tokyay Abbas , Aydemir Ahmet N. , Okay Erhan
Published: June 2016

Functional and radiographic outcomes, in addition to complication and reoperation rates of open curettage and grafting without instrumentation or with intramedullary nailing, in the treatment of simple bone cysts (SBCs) of the humerus were compared. Thirty-seven children [25 males, 12 females; median age=9.5 years (range, 3–17 years)] with humeral SBC were treated with curettage and grafting without instrumentation (group 1, 21 patients) or with intramedullary nailing (group 2, 16 patients). The pathological fracture rate was 85.7% in group 1 and 87.5 in group 2. The follow-up duration ranged from 26 to 85 months. The average last follow-up Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional scores for groups 1 and 2 were 28.9 and 29.5 (P>0.05). Higher, but statistically insignificant (P>0.05), complete or significant partial radiographic healing rates were achieved in group 2 (100%) compared with group 1 (76.2%). The overall complication rate of the entire study population was 21.6% (19%; 4/21 in group 1; 25%; 4/16 in group 2). The reoperation rates for groups 1 and 2 were 9.5% (2/21; one for partial cyst healing, one for recurrence) and 56.25% (9/16; one for surgical complication, eight for implant removal). Surgical intervention is indicated for selected patients with SBCs. Even though perfect functional results were possible with open curettage and grafting, continuous intramedullary decompression with elastic nails led to a higher radiographic healing rate in the treatment of humeral SBCs. Open curettage and grafting with or without intramedullary nailing was associated with a high number of complications, but the rate of reoperation for complications was very low.
Effect of a modified dynamic accordion hinge Denis Browne brace on the success rate of the Ponseti method in idiopathic clubfoot: a preliminary study
Authors: Abdi Reza , Hajzargarbashi Ramin , Baghdadi Taghi , Shirazi Mehdi R. , Omidnia Baya , Tajik Hamidreza
Published: June 2016

After the success of Dr Ponseti’s method for the treatment of idiopathic clubfoot deformity, the number of patients who need soft tissue release has decreased, but the use of foot abduction orthosis is crucial for maintaining correction after this method. The lack of adherence to the orthosis regimen is reported to be a major factor for recurrence. Noncompliance with brace may be because of skin ulceration and blistering or irritability of children because of restrictiveness of the leg motion in the brace. The aim of this article is to introduce a new design of Denis Browne brace (accordion Hinge DB brace) and evaluate the results. We treated a total of 90 patients with idiopathic clubfoot (145 clubfeet) by Dr Ponseti’s method and then prescribed a new design accordion to a hinge DB brace after correction of the deformity. We retrospectively reviewed the rate of complications, noncompliance, results, and effectiveness of this newly designed brace. The mean follow-up duration was 36 months (range 14–50 months). All 145 (100%) clubfeet showed complete correction after applying Dr Ponseti’s method before brace prescription. Then, the accordion hinge DB brace was applied after removal of the last cast, 23 h a day for 3 months, followed by nightly use subsequently for up to 4 years. Noncompliance was encountered for 15 (10.3%) clubfeet and in 11 (7.5%) clubfeet, relapse was observed. The mean time to relapse was 14 months. Among 15 noncompliant patients, 13 were older than 2 years of age and only one relapse occurred in a patient younger than 2 years old. We did not encounter any case with skin ulceration. On the basis of the results, and compared with our previous study with a classic DB brace, a considerable reduction in noncompliance and relapse was observed. We did not encounter any case with skin ulceration. This accordion hinge DB brace reduces the rate of the complications of classic DB brace, and we strongly recommend the accordion hinge DB brace after the Ponseti method and serial casting. Level of evidence: 4.
Relationship Between Dynamic Changes in Expression of IL-17/IL-23 in Lacrimal Gland and Ocular Surface Lesions in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Zhang Xiaofeng , Sun Zhengtai , Zhong Lei , Que Lijuan , Xia Wei , Yin Yuecong , Wang Yingming
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

An ovariectomized mouse model was constructed to observe the dynamic effects of hormone changes on the expression of interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-23 in the lacrimal glands.

Methods:

The ovariectomized mouse model was constructed by bilateral ovary removal. The concentrations of serum estradiol and testosterone in mouse cardiac blood were detected by radioimmunoassay. Mice in both groups underwent the phenol red cotton thread test and corneal fluorescein staining to assess the ocular surface, whereas Th17 cells in blood and spleen were detected by flow cytometry. IL-17A and IL-23 expression in the lacrimal glands was detected by immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Serum estradiol and testosterone levels were significantly lower in the ovariectomized group compared with those in the control group. There was lymphocytic infiltration in the lacrimal gland of the ovariectomized group mice. At 6 months after the surgery, aqueous tear production was significantly lower, and statistically significant corneal fluorescein staining was found in the ovariectomized group, compared with that in the control group. In the ovariectomized group, IL-17A and the IL-23 expression in the lacrimal glands and the Th17 expression in the blood and spleen were significantly higher than in the control group.

Conclusion:

The hormone levels are significantly reduced and lymphocytic infiltration in the lacrimal gland in ovariectomized mice, whereas the frequency of Th17 cells in the blood and spleen and IL-17A and IL-23 expression in the lacrimal glands are increased, leading to reduced tear production and positive fluorescein staining in the cornea.
Short- and Long-Term Changes in Corneal Aberrations and Axial Length Induced by Orthokeratology in Children Are Not Correlated
Authors: Santodomingo-Rubido Jacinto , Villa-Collar César , Gilmartin Bernard , Gutiérrez-Ortega Ramón , Suzaki Asaki
Published: June 2016

Purpose:

To assess the correlation between changes in corneal aberrations and the 2-year change in axial length in children fitted with orthokeratology (OK) contact lenses.

Methods:

Thirty-one subjects 6 to 12 years of age and with myopia −0.75 to −4.00DS and astigmatism ≤1.00DC were fitted with OK. Measurements of axial length and corneal topography were taken at regular intervals over a 2-year period. Corneal topography at baseline and after 3 and 24 months of OK lens wear was used to derive higher-order corneal aberrations (HOA) that were correlated with OK-induced axial length changes at 2 years.

Results:

Significant changes in

JOURNAL/eyecl/04.03/00140068-201711000-00005/inline-formula1/v/2023-09-12T090611Z/r/image-tiff

root mean square (RMS) secondary astigmatism and fourth and total HOA were found with both 3 and 24 months of OK lens wear in comparison with baseline (all P<0.05). Additionally, significant changes in

JOURNAL/eyecl/04.03/00140068-201711000-00005/5MMU8/v/2023-09-12T090611Z/r/image-tiff

and RMS tetrafoil were found at 3 months and in second-order RMS at 24 months of OK lens wear in comparison with baseline (all P<0.05). However, none of the changes in corneal aberrations were significantly correlated with the 2-year change in axial elongation (all P>0.05). Coma angle of orientation changed significantly pre-OK in comparison with 3 and 24 months post-OK as well as secondary astigmatism angle of orientation pre-OK in comparison with 24 months post-OK (all P<0.05). However, coma, trefoil, secondary astigmatism, and tetrafoil angles of orientation pre-OK or post-OK were not significantly correlated with the 2-year change in axial elongation (all P>0.05).

Discussion:

Short-term and long-term OK lens wear induces significant changes in corneal aberrations that are not significantly correlated with changes in axial elongation after 2-years.
Hyalournan Role in Pathophysiology of Different Species of Plasmodium
Authors: Ismail Khadiga Ahmed , Abdelwahab Maha Mohammed , Rezk Howaida Mahmoud , Khalifa Ahmed Mahmoud
Published: June 2016

Background

For years, Plasmodium vivax has been considered the cause of benign malaria. Nevertheless, it has been observed that this parasite can produce a severe disease comparable with Plasmodium falciparum. It has been suggested that some physiopathogenic processes might be shared by these 2 species, such as cytoadherence.

Objective

This study was conducted to demonstrate the severity of the disease with the hyaluronic acid (HA) level with different species of Plasmodium in patients complaining of fever of unknown origin, highly suspected clinically to be caused by malaria, which were diagnosed by microscopic examination, OptiMAL rapid antigen test, and serum level of HA and were assessed.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 32 expatriate patients attending King Faisal Specialized Hospital, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, complaining of fever of unknown origin were examined for malaria parasites by microscopy of Giemsa-stained blood smears, OptiMAL rapid antigen test, and HA test. The diagnostic performance of these methods was statistically compared.

Results

Of 32 clinically suspected cases, 17 (53%) were positive for Plasmodium infection, and of these, 8 (47%) were infected by P. falciparum (G1) and 9 (53%) by P. vivax (G2). Fifteen (47%) were negative for Plasmodium species (G3). The differences in the level of HA were statistically significant in G1 as compared with G3 as well as G2 as compared with G3 and statistically insignificant in G2 as compared with G1 (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The association of severity of anemia and the trend observed between adhesion to HA and increased parasite densities suggest their potential contribution to sequestration observed in P. vivax infections.
Major changes in the number and indications of liver biopsy for chronic liver diseases over one decade in France
Authors: Cadranel Jean-François D. , Nousbaum Jean-Baptiste , Gouillou Maelenn , Hanslik Bertrand
Published: June 2016

Aims

French clinical practice guidelines on the use of liver biopsy (LB) published in 2002 focused on ultrasound guidance (USG) and ambulatory LB. The aims of this study were as follows: (i) to evaluate the number and indications for LB for chronic liver diseases and (ii) to evaluate LB modalities according to French clinical practice guidelines. Data recorded included the number and indications for LB, procedures, use of USG, and complications.

Results

A total of 131 centers participated: 8741 LB were performed versus 12 000 in 1997; ambulatory LB was performed in 48.6% of cases (vs. 27% in 1997; P<0.001). USG during LB was used in 89.7% of the centers, among which 42 (31.8%) used real-time USG (vs. 56 and 22%, respectively, in 1997; P<0.01). The main indications for LB were chronic hepatitis C in 24.6% of cases (vs. 54.1% in 1997; P<0.001), and viral B or B-delta in 15.0% (vs. 5.8%; P<0.001). Severe complications were less frequent at centers with systematical USG during LB than at those without such guidance (P<0.01).

Conclusion

In this large nationwide study, major trends were as follows: (i) a marked decrease in LB number, related to a decrease in LB for chronic viral hepatitis C; (ii) increased use of USG; and (iii) an increase in the number of ambulatory LB. Severe complications decreased significantly at centers in which USG was systematically applied.
Current concepts in midface fracture management
Authors: Nastri Alf L. , Gurney Ben
Published: June 2016

Purpose of review

Management of midface trauma is complex and challenging and requires a clear understanding of the facial buttress system, subunit anatomy and inter-relationships. Too often clinicians attempt surgical repair without adequate knowledge of the common complications associated with poor reduction and improper sequencing of fracture repair. This review outlines a working approach to the identification and management of such injuries, and the definitive management of common injury patterns.

Recent findings

Midface trauma, with or without life-threatening and sight-threatening complications, may arise following isolated injury, or be associated with significant injuries elsewhere. Assessment needs to be both systematic and repeated, with the establishment of clearly stated priorities in overall care.

Accurate and precise relocation of bony subunits and resuspension of soft tissues is vital in achieving acceptable functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Conventional Risk Stratification Fails to Predict Progression of Succinate Dehydrogenase–deficient Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Mason Emily F. , Hornick Jason L.
Published: June 2016

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) that lack kinase mutations often show loss of function of the succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) complex, due to germline mutation or promoter hypermethylation. SDH-deficient GISTs are exclusive to the stomach and have a multinodular architecture. It has been suggested that conventional risk stratification criteria may not predict outcome for this group of tumors, although data are limited. Here, we report the clinical, histologic, and genetic findings from a large cohort of 76 SDH-deficient GISTs diagnosed from 2005 to 2015, identified on the basis of histologic features or family history (45 female/31 male; mean age at diagnosis 32 y; range 11 to 71 y; 10 patients 50 y of age or above). Immunohistochemistry for SDHB and SDHA showed loss of SDHB in all cases and loss of SDHA in 28 (37%) tumors. Tumor size ranged from 1.9 to 22.5 cm; the primary tumor was multifocal in 29%. Mitotic rate ranged from 1 to 80 per 5 mm2 (median 5.5). Lymph node metastases were found at primary resection in 14 (18%) patients. Twenty-four patients (32%) had distant metastases at presentation, and 52 of 70 patients (74%) with follow-up developed distant metastases, most often to the liver, but also bone, lungs, breast, and brain. Applying conventional criteria (size and mitotic rate), 60% to 82% of patients with tumors ranging from very low risk to high risk for progressive disease developed distant metastases, regardless of the category. Carney-Stratakis syndrome and Carney triad were diagnosed in 6 and 8 patients, respectively. Of 35 patients tested, 26 harbored SDH mutations (11 SDHA, 8 SDHB, 6 SDHC, 1 SDHD). Follow-up data available for 70 patients ranged from 1 month to 39.3 years: 20 patients had no evidence of disease (mean 6.1 y), 32 were alive with metastases (mean 10.9 y), and 18 died of disease (mean 7.0 y after diagnosis). In summary, SDH-deficient GISTs account for approximately 8% of gastric GISTs and are associated with a high rate of distant metastasis, regardless of conventional risk category. Many affected patients have germline SDH mutations (most often SDHA). Identification of SDH-deficient GISTs is critical for prognostication and genetic counseling.
INO80 governs superenhancer-mediated oncogenic transcription and tumor growth in melanoma
Authors: Zhou Bingying , Wang Li , Zhang Shu , Bennett Brian D. , He Fan , Zhang Yan , Xiong Chengliang , Han Leng , Diao Lixia , Li Pishun , Fargo David C. , Cox Adrienne D. , Hu Guang
Published: June 2016

Superenhancers (SEs) are large genomic regions with a high density of enhancer marks. In cancer, SEs are found near oncogenes and dictate cancer gene expression. However, how oncogenic SEs are regulated remains poorly understood. Here, we show that INO80, a chromatin remodeling complex, is required for SE-mediated oncogenic transcription and tumor growth in melanoma. The expression of Ino80, the SWI/SNF ATPase, is elevated in melanoma cells and patient melanomas compared with normal melanocytes and benign nevi. Furthermore, Ino80 silencing selectively inhibits melanoma cell proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, tumorigenesis, and tumor maintenance in mouse xenografts. Mechanistically, Ino80 occupies >90% of SEs, and its occupancy is dependent on transcription factors such as MITF and Sox9. Ino80 binding reduces nucleosome occupancy and facilitates Mediator recruitment, thus promoting oncogenic transcription. Consistently, genes co-occupied by Ino80 and Med1 are selectively expressed in melanomas compared with melanocytes. Together, our results reveal an essential role of INO80-dependent chromatin remodeling in SE function and suggest a novel strategy for disrupting SEs in cancer treatment.
A hyperactive transcriptional state marks genome reactivation at the mitosis–G1 transition
Authors: Hsiung Chris C.-S. , Bartman Caroline R. , Huang Peng , Ginart Paul , Stonestrom Aaron J. , Keller Cheryl A. , Face Carolyne , Jahn Kristen S. , Evans Perry , Sankaranarayanan Laavanya , Giardine Belinda , Hardison Ross C. , Raj Arjun , Blobel Gerd A.
Published: June 2016

During mitosis, RNA polymerase II (Pol II) and many transcription factors dissociate from chromatin, and transcription ceases globally. Transcription is known to restart in bulk by telophase, but whether de novo transcription at the mitosis–G1 transition is in any way distinct from later in interphase remains unknown. We tracked Pol II occupancy genome-wide in mammalian cells progressing from mitosis through late G1. Unexpectedly, during the earliest rounds of transcription at the mitosis–G1 transition, ∼50% of active genes and distal enhancers exhibit a spike in transcription, exceeding levels observed later in G1 phase. Enhancer–promoter chromatin contacts are depleted during mitosis and restored rapidly upon G1 entry but do not spike. Of the chromatin-associated features examined, histone H3 Lys27 acetylation levels at individual loci in mitosis best predict the mitosis–G1 transcriptional spike. Single-molecule RNA imaging supports that the mitosis–G1 transcriptional spike can constitute the maximum transcriptional activity per DNA copy throughout the cell division cycle. The transcriptional spike occurs heterogeneously and propagates to cell-to-cell differences in mature mRNA expression. Our results raise the possibility that passage through the mitosis–G1 transition might predispose cells to diverge in gene expression states.
Novel silica stabilization method for the analysis of fine nanocrystals using coherent X-ray diffraction imaging
Authors: Monteforte Marianne , Estandarte Ana K. , Chen Bo , Harder Ross , Huang Michael H. , Robinson Ian K.
Published: June 2016

High-energy X-ray Bragg coherent diffraction imaging (BCDI) is a well established synchrotron-based technique used to quantitatively reconstruct the three-dimensional morphology and strain distribution in nanocrystals. The BCDI technique has become a powerful analytical tool for quantitative investigations of nanocrystals, nanotubes, nanorods and more recently biological systems. BCDI has however typically failed for fine nanocrystals in sub-100 nm size regimes – a size routinely achievable by chemical synthesis – despite the spatial resolution of the BCDI technique being 20–30 nm. The limitations of this technique arise from the movement of nanocrystals under illumination by the highly coherent beam, which prevents full diffraction data sets from being acquired. A solution is provided here to overcome this problem and extend the size limit of the BCDI technique, through the design of a novel stabilization method by embedding the fine nanocrystals into a silica matrix. Chemically synthesized FePt nanocrystals of maximum dimension 20 nm and AuPd nanocrystals in the size range 60–65 nm were investigated with BCDI measurement at beamline 34-ID-C of the APS, Argonne National Laboratory. Novel experimental methodologies to elucidate the presence of strain in fine nanocrystals are a necessary pre-requisite in order to better understand strain profiles in engineered nanocrystals for novel device development.
Structural basis for acyl-group discrimination by human Gcn5L2
Authors: Ringel Alison E. , Wolberger Cynthia
Published: June 2016

Gcn5 is a conserved acetyltransferase that regulates transcription by acetylating the N-terminal tails of histones. Motivated by recent studies identifying a chemically diverse array of lysine acyl modificationsin vivo, the acyl-chain specificity of the acetyltransferase human Gcn5 (Gcn5L2) was examined. Whereas Gcn5L2 robustly catalyzes lysine acetylation, the acyltransferase activity of Gcn5L2 becomes progressively weaker with increasing acyl-chain length. To understand how Gcn5 discriminates between different acyl-CoA molecules, structures of the catalytic domain of human Gcn5L2 bound to propionyl-CoA and butyryl-CoA were determined. Although the active site of Gcn5L2 can accommodate propionyl-CoA and butyryl-CoA without major structural rearrangements, butyryl-CoA adopts a conformation incompatible with catalysis that obstructs the path of the incoming lysine residue and acts as a competitive inhibitor of Gcn5L2versusacetyl-CoA. These structures demonstrate how Gcn5L2 discriminates between acyl-chain donors and explain why Gcn5L2 has weak activity for acyl moieties that are larger than an acetyl group.
Mechanism of the allosteric regulation ofStreptococcus mutans2′-deoxycytidylate deaminase
Authors: Li Yanhua , Guo Zhen , Jin Li , Wang Deqiang , Gao Zengqiang , Su Xiaodong , Hou Haifeng , Dong Yuhui
Published: June 2016

In cells, dUMP is the intermediate precursor of dTTP in its synthesis during deoxynucleotide metabolism. In Gram-positive bacteria and eukaryotes, zinc-dependent deoxycytidylate deaminases (dCDs) catalyze the conversion of dCMP to dUMP. The activity of dCD is allosterically activated by dCTP and inhibited by dTTP. Here, the crystal structure ofStreptococcus mutansdCD (SmdCD) complexed with dTTP is presented at 2.35 Å resolution, thereby solving the first pair of activator-bound and inhibitor-bound structures from the same species to provide a more definitive description of the allosteric mechanism. In contrast to the dTTP-bound dCD from the bacteriophage S-TIM5 (S-TIM5-dCD), dTTP-bound SmdCD adopts an inactive conformation similar to the apo form. A structural comparison suggests that the distinct orientations of the triphosphate group in S-TIM5-dCD and SmdCD are a result of the varying protein binding environment. In addition, calorimetric data establish that the modulators bound to dCD can be mutually competitively replaced. The results reveal the mechanism underlying its regulator-specific activity and might greatly enhance the understanding of the allosteric regulation of other dCDs.
Inclusive Islamic financial planning: a conceptual framework
Authors: Ahmed Habib , Salleh Ak Md Hasnol Alwee Pg Md
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework of inclusive Islamic financial planning (IFP) by combining the traditional Islamic institutions of zakat and awqaf with contemporary notions of financial planning, financial inclusion and financial literacy that caters to the short-term and long-term financial goals of the poor.

Design/methodology/approach

Being a conceptual article, an inclusive IFP framework is described, analyzed and developed by integrating modern notions of financial inclusion, financial planning and financial literacy with the concepts of zakat and awqaf.

Findings

Using the notion of a hierarchy of needs and a financial planning model, an inclusive IFP framework that can be used by the poor is outlined. The complementary role of the non-poor households who provide funds for zakat and awqaf is also identified.

Research limitations/implications

The applicability of an inclusive IFP would require Islamic financial instruments and products, institutional development and existence of a social planner who can integrate zakat, awqaf and financial planning to serve the financial needs of the poor.

Social implications

Application of an inclusive IFP that can mitigate poverty would necessitate integrating financial planning skills and knowledge with traditional institutions of zakat and awqaf to provide holistic financial advice and services to the poor households.

Originality/value

Discussion of financial planning in financial inclusion literature is scant. The paper explores and offers a novel approach of poverty mitigation by utilizing the full spectrum of IFP that considers the financial needs and allows for the creation of a personalized financial plan for low-income households.
Economic substance or legal form: an evaluation of Islamic finance practice
Authors: Hanif Muhammad
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Islamic financing is based on the ideology of Islam, proposing a different economic system than capitalism. The essence of Islamic financing lies in trading of goods, provision of services and/or investment under profit and loss sharing. This study aims to examine legal forms and economic substance of the contracts used by the Islamic financial industry.

Design/methodology/approach

To conclude on the objectives of the study, five most widely used contracts (modes/products), including Murabaha, Ijarah, Diminishing Musharaka, Sukuk and Mudaraba (deposits), were selected to test against the theory of the Islamic financial system.

Findings

It is found in the process that legally (legal form) contracts/products are in line with theory; however, economic substance is not very different from conventional counter parts.

Practical implications

Through application of alternative calculation measures/methods and proper training of human resources, Islamic financial institutions can shift economic substance of contracts in line with the theory of Islamic finance.

Originality/value

Islamic finance is an emerging area, and reasonably good amount of literature is available; however, perhaps, this is the only piece of work focusing on calculation methods, contributing in economic substance of contracts, being used in modern Islamic finance in addition to legal form as per essence of Islamic financial system.
Altruism, reciprocity and Islamic equity finance
Authors: Suzuki Yasushi , Miah Mohammad Dulal
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper argues how Islamic altruism and reciprocity can enhance or drain the supply of Islamic equity finance. The paper also analyzes the feasibility of Islamic equity finance through the lens of new institutional economics (NIE) and transaction cost economics (TCE).

Design/methodology/approach

One of the salient contributions by NIE is to support the proposition that effective contracting depends greatly on institutions in terms of “rules that constrain economic behavior”, including informal or intangible institutions, such as religion, culture and customary practices. This paper draws on the theoretical contributions of the NIE and TCE and applies some of these contributions to an analysis of general altruism and reciprocity in Islamic economies.

Findings

It is said that solutions based on the Islamic injunctions (collectively termed as spiritual quotient) could serve to mitigate agency risks. However, in theory, the Muslim principal (particularly fund providers) is exposed to higher agency risk unless appropriate rules of protecting the right of the principal (or of punishing the agent when its opportunistic behavior is revealed) are devised, because the Muslim fund providers have the divine obligation to share risks in enterprise under the profit-loss sharing (PLS) scheme as well as to share a portion of income with the poor or those entrepreneurs who face difficulties in fund-raising.

Originality/value

Many scholars refer to the lack of the “formal” institutions that hinder the sound development of Islamic venture capital (VC). This paper contributes to shedding an analytical light on the unique feature of the Muslims’ “informal” constraints which make them hesitate to invest in Islamic VC. To develop the Islamic VC market, this paper provides a theoretical background to suggest how important it would be for the national financial system to devise some tangible provisions by installing enterprise-friendly regulations as well as adequate incentive and protection mechanisms consistent with Islamic principles.
Data mining: an ethical baseline for online privacy policies
Authors: Dean Matthew D , Payne Dinah M , Landry Brett J.L.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to advocate for and provide guidance for the development of a code of ethical conduct surrounding online privacy policies, including those concerning data mining. The hope is that this research generates thoughtful discussion on the issue of how to make data mining more effective for the business stakeholder while at the same time making it a process done in an ethical way that remains effective for the consumer. The recognition of the privacy rights of data mining subjects is paramount within this discussion.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors derive foundational principles for ethical data mining. First, philosophical literature on moral principles is used as the theoretical foundation. Then, using existing frameworks, including legislation and regulations from a range of jurisdictions, a compilation of foundational principles was derived. This compilation was then evaluated and honed through the integration of stakeholder perspective and the assimilation of moral and philosophical precepts. Evaluating a sample of privacy policies hints that current practice does not meet the proposed principles, indicating a need for changes in the way data mining is performed.

Findings

– A comprehensive framework for the development a contemporary code of conduct and proposed ethical practices for online data mining was constructed.

Research limitations/implications

– This paper provides a configuration upon which a code of ethical conduct for performing data mining, tailored to meet the particular needs of any organization, can be designed.

Practical implications

– The implications of data mining, and a code of ethical conduct regulating it, are far-reaching. Implementation of such principles serve to improve consumer and stakeholder confidence, ensure the enduring compliance of data providers and the integrity of its collectors, and foster confidence in the security of data mining.

Originality/value

– Existing legal mandates alone are insufficient to properly regulate data mining, therefore supplemental reference to ethical considerations and stakeholder interest is required. The adoption of a functional code of general application is essential to address the increasing proliferation of apprehension regarding online privacy.
Analysis of interactions between IT and organisational resources in a manufacturing organisation using cross-impact analysis
Authors: Ceric Arnela
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to contribute to a growing body of research on the applicability of resource-based theory (RBT) to the information systems (IS) area. In particular, the paper provides an understanding of the IS value creation process, and strategies for managing it by demonstrating the application of cross-impact analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

– RBT and systems theory are adopted as a theoretical framework in this study. Cross-impact analysis is used as a method for investigating interactions among elements of an IS value creation system. These elements were identified through 22 semi-structured interviews with organisational stakeholders, and assessed in terms of direction and strength of their interactions, and depicted in a coordinate system.

Findings

– The result of the analysis is a meaningful classification of elements in an IS value creation system as: levers, indicators, identities, buffers or trends, based on their position in the system. The results provide additional clarity and insights into the relationships between IS and organisational resources and their effect on IS value.

Research limitations/implications

– The research findings have important implications for researchers and managers in terms of understanding the impact of interactions among IS and organisational resources on formulating successful strategies for managing the IS value creation system.

Originality/value

– This study explores interactions among IS/information technology resources and organisational resources by using cross-impact analysis. It shows that interactions among the identified resources do have a major influence on the overall IS value creation system.
Preliminary insight into cloud computing adoption in a developing country
Authors: Senyo Prince Kwame , Effah John , Addae Erasmus
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the determinants of cloud computing adoption (CCA) in a developing country context through the lens of the technology, organisation and environment (TOE) framework.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study was carried out using the quantitative research methodology based on a survey of 305 organisations from different industries in Ghana. Based on the TOE framework, a conceptual model consisting of ten hypotheses were proposed and tested through a confirmatory factor analysis and logistic regression analysis.

Findings

– The findings indicate that relative advantage, security concern, top management support, technology readiness, competitive pressure and trading partners’ pressure were the TOE factors found to be significant in CCA in a developing country context. Conversely, firm size, scope, compatibility and regulatory support were found to be insignificant.

Originality/value

– This study provides insights into CCA across different industries in a developing country environment. The study is arguably the first kind of empirical research into CCA in a developing country context, specifically in Ghana. The findings from this study provide a foundation for other studies as well as constructive insights for the development of cloud computing, due to its infancy in the developing world.
Growth and carbon relations of mature Picea abies trees under 5 years of free‐air CO2 enrichment
Authors: Klein Tamir , Bader Martin K.‐F. , Leuzinger Sebastian , Mildner Manuel , Schleppi Patrick , Siegwolf Rolf T.W. , Körner Christian
Published: June 2016

Are mature forests carbon limited? To explore this question, we exposed ca. 110‐year‐old, 40‐m tall Picea abies trees to a 550‐ppm CO2 concentration in a mixed lowland forest in NW Switzerland. The site receives substantial soluble nitrogen (N) via atmospheric deposition, and thus, trees are unlikely N‐limited. We used a construction crane to operate the free‐air CO2 release system and for canopy access. Here, we summarize the major results for growth and carbon (C) fluxes.

Tissue 13C signals confirmed the effectiveness of the CO2 enrichment system and permitted tracing the continuous flow of new C in trees. Tree responses were individually standardized by pre‐treatment signals. Over the five experimental years, needles retained their photosynthetic capacity and absorbed up to 37% more CO2 under elevated (E) compared to ambient (A) conditions. However, we did not detect an effect on stem radial growth, branch apical growth and needle litter production. Neither stem nor soil CO2 efflux was stimulated under elevated CO2. The rate at which fine roots filled soil ingrowth cores did not significantly differ between A‐ and E‐trees.

Since trees showed no stomatal responses to elevated CO2, sap flow remained unresponsive, both in the long run as well as during short‐term CO2 on–off experiments. As a consequence, soil moisture remained unaffected. We trapped significantly more nitrate in the root sphere of E‐trees suggesting a CO2‐stimulated breakdown of soil organic matter, presumably induced by extra carbohydrate exudation (‘priming’).

Synthesis. The lack of a single enhanced C sink to match the increased C uptake meant a missing C sink. Increased C transport to below‐ground sinks was indicated by C transfer to ectomycorrhiza and on to neighbouring trees and by increased C export to soil. We conclude that these tall Picea abies trees are not C limited at current CO2 concentrations and further atmospheric CO2 enrichment will have at most subtle effects on growth, despite enhanced N availability.
Ontogenetic responses of four plant species to additive and interactive effects of land‐use history, canopy structure and herbivory
Authors: Hahn Philip G. , Orrock John L.
Published: June 2016

The strength of interactions among species is often highly variable in space and time, and a major challenge in understanding context‐dependent effects of herbivores lies in disentangling habitat‐mediated from herbivore‐mediated effects on plant performance.

We conducted a landscape‐scale experiment that manipulated light availability in woodlands with either a history of agricultural use or no history of agricultural use and coupled this with performance measurements of three life stages on four perennial herbaceous species exposed to varying levels of herbivory.

We found that the context‐dependent effects of herbivory on plant performance changed as plants grew: juvenile plant survival was reduced by herbivores in low‐light habitats whereas biomass of adult plants was reduced by a more diverse insect fauna in high‐light environments. A history of agricultural land use also had negative effects on seedling establishment and adult performance, independent of herbivory.

Synthesis. This work experimentally separates the habitat‐mediated effects on plant performance from the herbivore‐mediated effects on plant performance and highlights how context‐dependent interactions depend on plant ontogenetic stages.
Disentangling the four demographic dimensions of species invasiveness
Authors: Catford Jane A. , Baumgartner John B. , Vesk Peter A. , White Matt , Buckley Yvonne M. , McCarthy Michael A.
Published: June 2016

A definitive list of invasive species traits remains elusive, perhaps due to inconsistent ways of identifying invasive species. Invasive species are typically identified using one or more of four demographic criteria (local abundance, geographic range, environmental range, spread rate), referred to here as the demographic dimensions of invasiveness.

In 112 studies comparing invasive and non‐invasive plant traits, all 15 combinations of the four demographic dimensions were used to identify invasive species; 22% of studies identified invasive species solely by high abundance, while 25% ignored abundance.

We used demographic data of 340 alien herbs classified as invasive or non‐invasive in Victoria, Australia, to test whether the demographic dimensions are independent and which dimensions influence invasive species listing in practice.

Species' abundances, spread rates and range sizes were independent. Relative abundance best explained the invasiveness classification. However, invasive and non‐invasive species each spanned the full range of each demographic dimension, indicating that no dimension clearly separates invasive from non‐invasive species.

Graminoids with longer minimum residence times were more frequently classified as invasive, as were forbs occurring near edges of native vegetation fragments.

Synthesis. Conflating multiple forms of invasiveness, by not distinguishing invasive species that are identified using different demographic criteria, may obscure traits possessed by particular subsets of invasive species. Traits promoting high abundance likely differ from those enabling fast spread and broad ranges. Examining traits linked with the four demographic dimensions of invasiveness will highlight species at risk of becoming dominant, spreading quickly or occupying large ranges.
Mycorrhizal associations of trees have different indirect effects on organic matter decomposition
Authors: Taylor Melanie K. , Lankau Richard A. , Wurzburger Nina
Published: June 2016

Organic matter decomposition is the main process by which carbon (C) is lost from terrestrial ecosystems, and mycorrhizal associations of plants (i.e. arbuscular mycorrhizas (AM) and ectomycorrhizas (ECM)) may have different indirect effects on this loss pathway. AM and ECM plants differ in the soil decomposers they promote and the quality of litter they produce, which may result in different patterns of organic matter decomposition, and hence, soil C loss.

To determine how mycorrhizal associations indirectly affect decomposer activity, we collected soils and litters from four AM and four ECM tree species from a mixed‐deciduous temperate forest for a field and laboratory study. We first characterized in situ patterns in soil chemistry and soil microbial biomass among these eight tree species. We then conducted a microcosm experiment with mineral soils, leaf litter and fine roots originating from these tree species, where we reciprocally crossed litters and soils, and quantified the rate of heterotrophic respiration over a 140‐day laboratory incubation.

In natural forest conditions, AM tree soils contained lower total C and microbial biomass C:N relative to ECM tree soils. In our microcosm experiment, AM soils supported greater heterotrophic respiration than did ECM soils. The addition of AM litter stimulated respiration more than did ECM litter, owing to the lower C:N of AM litter. Matching the mycorrhizal identity of litter and soil resulted in a difference in total respiration, such that combinations of AM litters with AM soils lost more C than did combinations of ECM litters with ECM soils.

Synthesis. Our findings demonstrate that AM and ECM trees have differing indirect effects on soil decomposer activity through the decomposers they cultivate and/or the quality of organic matter they produce. Mycorrhizal differences in litter quality accentuate these effects on soil C loss and may explain patterns in soil C dynamics in terrestrial ecosystems.