Post-translational lipidation provides critical modulation of the functions of some proteins. Isoprenoids (i.e., farnesyl or geranylgeranyl groups) are attached to cysteine residues in proteins containing C-terminal CaaX sequence motifs. Isoprenylation is followed by cleavage of the aaX amino acid residues and, in some cases, by additional proteolytic cuts. We determined the crystal structure of the CaaX protease Ste24p, a zinc metalloprotease catalyzing two proteolytic steps in the maturation of yeast mating pheromone a-factor. The Ste24p core structure is a ring of seven transmembrane helices enclosing a voluminous cavity containing the active-site and substrate binding groove. The cavity is accessible to the external milieu via gaps between splayed transmembrane helices. We hypothesize that cleavage proceeds via a processive mechanism of substrate insertion, translocation and ejection.

Higher perceived workplace health support is independently associated with higher work productivity. Employers may see productivity benefit from wellness programs through improved perceptions of workplace health support.

Past research has shown that response interruption and redirection (RIRD) can effectively decrease automatically reinforced motor behavior (Hagopian & Adelinis, 2001). Ahearn, Clark, MacDonald, and Chung (2007) found that a procedural adaptation of RIRD reduced vocal stereotypy and increased appropriate vocalizations for some children, although appropriate vocalizations were not targeted directly. The purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of directly targeting appropriate language (i.e., verbal operant training) on vocal stereotypy and appropriate speech in 3 children with an autism spectrum disorder. The effects of verbal operant (i.e., tact) training were evaluated in a nonconcurrent multiple baseline design across participants. In addition, RIRD was implemented with 2 of the 3 participants to further decrease levels of vocal stereotypy. Verbal operant training alone produced slightly lower levels of stereotypy and increased appropriate vocalizations for all 3 participants; however, RIRD was required to produce acceptably low levels of stereotypy for 2 of the 3 participants.

Background In our competitive health care environment, measuring the experience of family members of patients in the intensive care unit to ensure that health care providers are meeting families’ needs is critical. Surveys from Press Ganey and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are unable to capture families’ satisfaction with care in this setting. Objective To implement a sustainable measure for family satisfaction in a 12-bed medical and surgical intensive care unit. To assess the feasibility of the selected tool for measuring family satisfaction and to make recommendations that are based on the results. Method A descriptive survey design using the Family Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit 24-item questionnaire to measure satisfaction with care and decision-making. Results Forty family members completed the survey. Overall, the mean score for families’ satisfaction with care was 72.24% (SD, 14.87%) and the mean score for families’ satisfaction with decision-making was 72.03% (SD, 16.61%). Families reported that nurses put them at ease and provided understandable explanations. Collaboration, inclusion of families in clinical discussions, and timely information regarding changes in the patient’s condition were the most common points brought up in free-text responses from family members. Written communication, including directions and expectations, would have improved the families’ experience. Conclusion Although patients’ family members reported being satisfied with their experience in the intensive care unit, there is room for improvement. Effective communication among the health care team, patients’ families, and patients will be targeted for quality improvement initiatives.