bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Clinical and Economic Burden of Newly Diagnosed Alzheimer’s Disease in a Medicare Advantage Population
Authors: Suehs Brandon T. , Davis Cralen D. , Alvir Jose , van Amerongen Derek , PharmD Nick C. Patel , Joshi Ashish V. , Faison Warachal E. , Shah Sonali N.
Published: May 2013

Background/Rationale:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents a serious public health issue affecting approximately 5.4 million individuals in the United States and is projected to affect up to 16 million by 2050. This study examined health care resource utilization (HCRU), costs, and comorbidity burden immediately preceding new diagnosis of AD and 2 years after diagnosis.

Methods:

This study utilized a claims-based, retrospective cohort design. Medicare Advantage members newly diagnosed with AD (n = 3374) were compared to matched non-AD controls (n = 6748). All patients with AD were required to have 12 months of continuous enrollment prior to AD diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases, Clinical Modification [ICD-9] 331.0), during which time no diagnosis of AD, a related dementia, or an AD medication was observed. Non-AD controls demonstrated no diagnosis of AD, a related dementia, or a prescription claim for an AD medication treatment during their health plan enrollment. Medical and pharmacy claims data were used to measure HCRU, costs, and comorbidity burden over a period of 36 months (12 months pre-diagnosis and 24 months post-diagnosis).

Results:

The HCRU and costs were greater for AD members during the year prior to diagnosis and during postdiagnosis years 1 and 2 compared to controls. The AD members also displayed greater comorbidity than their non-AD counterparts during postdiagnosis years 1 and 2, as measured by 2 different comorbidity indices.

Conclusions:

Members newly diagnosed with AD demonstrated greater HCRU, health care costs, and comorbidity burden compared to matched non-AD controls.
Print Advertisements for Alzheimer’s Disease Drugs
Authors: Gooblar Jonathan , Carpenter Brian D.
Published: May 2013

Purpose:

We examined print advertisements for Alzheimer’s disease drugs published in journals and magazines between January 2008 and February 2012, using an informational versus transformational theoretical framework to identify objective and persuasive features.

Methods:

In 29 unique advertisements, we used qualitative methods to code and interpret identifying information, charts, benefit and side effect language, and persuasive appeals embedded in graphics and narratives.

Results:

Most elements contained a mixture of informational and transformational features. Charts were used infrequently, but when they did appear the accompanying text often exaggerated the data. Benefit statements covered an array of symptoms, drug properties, and caregiver issues. Side effect statements often used positive persuasive appeals. Graphics and narrative features emphasized positive emotions and outcomes.

Implications:

We found subtle and sophisticated attempts both to educate and to persuade readers. It is important for consumers and prescribing physicians to read print advertisements critically so that they can make informed treatment choices.
Video Prompting Versus Other Instruction Strategies for Persons With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Perilli Viviana , Lancioni Giulio E. , Hoogeveen Frans , Caffó Alessandro , Singh Nirbhay , O'Reilly Mark , Sigafoos Jeff , Cassano Germana , Oliva Doretta
Published: May 2013

Background/Aim:

Two studies assessed the effectiveness of video prompting as a strategy to support persons with mild and moderate Alzheimer’s disease in performing daily activities.

Methods:

In study I, video prompting was compared to an existing strategy relying on verbal instructions. In study II, video prompting was compared to another existing strategy relying on static pictorial cues. Video prompting and the other strategies were counterbalanced across tasks and participants and compared within alternating treatments designs.

Results:

Video prompting was effective in all participants. Similarly effective were the other 2 strategies, and only occasional differences between the strategies were reported. Two social validation assessments showed that university psychology students and graduates rated the patients’ performance with video prompting more favorably than their performance with the other strategies.

Conclusion:

Video prompting may be considered a valuable alternative to the other strategies to support daily activities in persons with Alzheimer's disease.
Judging a Book by Its Cover
Authors: Charras Kevin , Gzil Fabrice
Published: May 2013

Objectives:

In certain health care facilities, the staff commonly wear uniforms for dementia care. Wearing uniforms are often believed to improve the well-being of institutionalized people with dementia (PwD) by facilitating orientation and preserving hygiene. However, when studied more thoroughly, it appears that their use counters to person centeredness. This study aims to investigate the impact of wearing uniforms on the quality of life (QoL) of institutionalized PwD.

Method:

A natural experimental design was operated in 4 special care units (SCUs) in France. Two SCUs served as an experimental group (caregivers wearing street clothes except when performing hands-on physical care; N = 13) and 2 served as a comparison group (caregivers wearing uniforms; N = 14). The QoL of PwD was measured using the QoL-Alzheimer’s Disease scale, and focus groups were carried out with caregivers.

Results:

Overall and significantly enhanced QoL scores were observed for the experimental street clothing staff group when compared to the uniform group. Caregivers also reported subjective impressions of overall beneficial outcomes for PwD when the caregivers were not wearing uniforms and reported feeling more at ease when interacting with them.

Conclusion:

Results are discussed in terms of intergroup relationships, living and working conditions, and ethical issues.
The Role of Physical Environment in Supporting Person-centered Dining in Long-Term Care
Authors: Chaudhury Habib , Hung Lillian , Badger Melissa
Published: May 2013

The physical environment of dining rooms in long-term care facilities is increasingly recognized as an important catalyst in implementing a culture based on person-centered care philosophy. Mealtimes are important opportunities to support residents' personhood in care facilities. This article presents a critical review of the literature on evidence-based physical environmental interventions and examines their implications for creating a more person-centered dining environment, specifically for residents with dementia. The review identifies the role of a supportive dining environment to foster: a) functional ability, b) orientation, c) safety and security, d) familiarity and home-likeness, e) optimal sensory stimulation, f) social interaction, and g) privacy and personal control. It is clear from this review that there is a growing body of research to support the importance of certain physical environmental features in the dining context that can foster positive resident outcomes. The evidence indicates that well-designed physical settings play an important role in creating a person-centered dining environment to support best possible mealtime experience of residents. Gaps in the literature and directions for future research are discussed.
Endoscopic Horizon Stabilization in Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery
Authors: Sodergren Mikael H. , Warren Alexander , Nehme Jean , Clark James , Gillen Sonja , Feussner Hubertus , Teare Julian , Darzi Ara , Yang Guang-Zhong
Published: May 2013

Background. Spatial orientation in natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) has been identified as a potential barrier to clinical application. We aim to evaluate a triaxial inertial sensor and software that automatically corrects any movements on the roll axis of the flexible endoscope, allowing for stabilization of the image horizon during NOTES operations in a randomized controlled trial. Methods. A total of 18 participants (11 surgeons/7 gastroenterologists) performed a transgastric task in the ELITE simulator, which included navigation to the appendix and gallbladder, diathermy of the appendix base and gallbladder fossa, and clipping of the cystic duct using a single-channel gastroscope. Each participant performed the task twice with randomization to horizon stabilization occurring at the second attempt. The primary end point was change in overall performance (time taken and errors made) between the first and second attempt, and secondary end points were absolute performances in the second attempt and subjective evaluation. Results. Without horizon stabilization, there was a median improvement of 42.4% in time taken and 38% in number of errors made from the first to the second attempt; however, with the software turned on, there was a statistically significant deterioration of 4.9% ( P = .038) in time taken and an increase in errors made of 183% ( P = ns). Conclusions. Although the software corrects the view to that preferred during surgery, the endoscopic control mechanism as well as the exit point of the instrument are altered in this process, leading to a deterioration of overall performance. Potential solutions include deploying intermittent horizon stabilization or using a robotic interface to achieve fully aligned perceptual-motor control.
Inclusivity in the Classroom
Authors: Maxam Susan , Henderson James E.
Published: May 2013

This case involves a high school principal dealing with increasing numbers of students with “invisible disabilities” in his school while faced with ever-present budgetary cuts, perennially substandard academic performance, and low teacher morale. This case seeks to investigate how a principal, faced with an unsupportive Board interested only in raising test scores as well as teachers complaining about students with disabilities disrupting their classes, can foster a climate of inclusivity while creating conditions aimed at the academic success of all students in this financially strapped, low-performing school serving children in poverty.
Self-Image of Male Nursing Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Zenobia C. Y. , Lo Kelvin K. L. , Tse Kris C. Y. , Wong William W.
Published: May 2013

The image of male nurses is closely related to the development of a female-driven nursing occupation. As a minority group in the nursing industry, male nursing students may have a negative self-image in their learning and clinical practicum. This may affect their psychological health and mental status. This study explored the positive and negative self-image of male nursing students. Eighteen participants were recruited from a local nurse-training institute. The participants were undergraduate bachelor’s and master’s students of nursing. The experience and opinions of the participants were collected by multiple methods. The participants’ drawings and audio diaries representing their self-image as nurses were collected in advance of a discussion of ideas raised in the focus group interview. The findings were categorized into three themes: (a) self-roles, functions, and identities; (b) awareness of gender differences; and (c) the future of professional development. The findings of this study provide information on the nurse role, identity, gender differences, and professional development of male nursing students, which will drive the direction of the development of a positive image for male nurses in the future.
Beyond patriotic education: Locating the place of nationalism in the public school curriculum
Authors: McDonough Kevin , Cormier Andrée-Anne
Published: May 2013

The main thesis we want to defend in this article is that learning about nationalism from a historical, sociological, and normative point of view constitutes one important, but rather neglected, dimension of a good citizenship education. Although the debate about nationalism and education has received considerable attention from political and educational philosophers in recent years, the dispute has mainly focused on the question of whether public schools can legitimately promote nationalist sentiments, that is, patriotism. However, in this article, we wish to shift the focus away from the question of promoting patriotism and toward the question of the role that teaching about the phenomenon of nationalism and about specific nationalist movements can play in reinforcing liberal and democratic civic values and principles. We argue that such teaching can indeed play an important role and that this is true regardless of whether one views patriotism as a civic virtue or not and regardless of whether the aim of promoting patriotism in schools is legitimate or not.
A Bayesian approach to sensor placement optimization and system reliability monitoring
Authors: Pourali Masoud , Mosleh Ali
Published: May 2013

Sensors are being increasingly used to monitor the functional state of complex systems. Sensors are used to make observation of physical quantities. The measured quantities are expected to provide information about the state of the system, its subsystems, components, and internal and external physical parameters. A complex system normally requires many sensors to extract required information from the sensed environment. In most cases, the problem of optimal sensor placement is difficult, because it requires optimization under uncertainty. This research developed new algorithms for sensor placement optimization under uncertainty and utilized them in a new system reliability monitoring approach. The overall methodology is designed to answer important questions such as how to infer the reliability of a system based on a limited number of sensor information points at certain subsystems (upward propagation); how to infer the reliability of a subsystem based on knowledge of the reliability of a main system (downward propagation); how to infer the reliability of a subsystem based on knowledge of the reliability of other subsystems (distributed propagation); and what are the optimum locations of sensors to provide the best estimate of system reliability.
An enhanced decision diagram-based method for common-cause failure analysis
Authors: Mo Yuchang , Xing Liudong
Published: May 2013

This article considers the problem of evaluating the reliability of systems subject to common-cause failures. The existing efficient decomposition and aggregation approach for common-cause failures analysis generates and solves a number of reduced reliability problems separately and then aggregates results of those problems based on the total probability theorem to generate the entire system reliability. We propose an enhanced decision diagram-based analysis method, which requires less computer storage and is more efficient as compared with the existing efficient decomposition and aggregation solution by generating a single compact diagram to model all the reduced reliability problems sharing their isomorphic sub-decision diagram. By using multiple-valued variables to encode common-cause failures, the decision diagram-based method offers a simple and straightforward model evaluation process that automatically implements the results aggregation process of the efficient decomposition and aggregation method. Application and advantages of the proposed method are illustrated through detailed analyses of an example computer system subject to common-cause failures.
Video game rating systems in the US and Europe
Authors: Dogruel Leyla , Joeckel Sven
Published: May 2013

Regulating children’s and adolescents’ access to video games appeared on the agenda of media lawmakers from the 1990s on. Approaches in western democracies have largely followed the approach of industry self-regulation, resulting in a diverse set of different types of self-regulation systems. This study applies a comparative perspective on the actual rating practices, asking how far regulation systems differ systematically and how far these differences might lead to different rating decisions. The study analyzes both the set-up of three major western regulation systems (the German USK, the pan-European PEGI and the US ESRB) and the actual rating decisions in each of the three systems relying on secondary data at the aggregate level, individual rating decisions for 182 top-selling titles and a list of favorite video games of 744 adolescents in the US and Germany. Findings illustrate that each system has a distinct focus, according to which it regulates different video game use more strongly than the other systems.
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 negatively regulates IFN regulatory factor 3 transactivation through phosphorylation at its linker region
Authors: Wang Jiin-Tarng , Chang Ling-Shih , Chen Chun-Jen , Doong Shin-Lian , Chang Chou-Wei , Chen Mei-Ru
Published: May 2013

Upon virus infection, the host innate immune response is initiated through the activation of IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) and NF-κB signaling pathways to induce IFN production. Previously, we demonstrated EBV BGLF4 kinase suppresses IRF3 function in a kinase activity-dependent manner. The replacement of Ser123, Ser173 and Thr180 into alanines at the proline-rich linker region of IRF3 abolishes BGLF4-mediated suppression. In this study, we show that BGLF4 phosphorylates glutathione-S-transferase (GST)–IRF3(110-202), but not GST–IRF3(110-202)3A mutant (S123/S173/T180A) in vitro. Compared with activation mimicking mutant IRF3(5D), the phosphorylation-defective IRF3(5D)3A shows a higher transactivation activity in reporter assays, whereas the phosphorylation-mimicking IRF3(5D)2D1E, with Ser123 and Ser173 mutated to aspartate and Thr180 to glutamate, has a much lower activity. To explore whether similar cellular regulation also exists in the absence of virus infection, candidate cellular kinases were predicted and the transactivation activity of IRF3 was examined with various kinase inhibitors. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) inhibitor LiCl specifically enhanced both IRF3(5D) and wild type IRF3 activity, even without stimulation. Expression of constitutive active GSK3β(S9A) represses LiCl-mediated enhancement of IRF3 transactivation activity. In vitro, both GSK3α and GSK3β phosphorylate IRF3 at the linker region. Collectively, data here suggest GSK3 phosphorylates IRF3 linker region in a way similar to viral kinase BGLF4.
Surfactant protein A binds TGF-β1 with high affinity and stimulates the TGF-β pathway
Authors: Willems Coen HMP , Zimmermann Luc JI , Kloosterboer Nico , Kramer Boris W , van Iwaarden J Freek
Published: May 2013

We were able to demonstrate reversible, specific and high-affinity binding of radioactively-labelled TGF-β1 (125I-TGF-β1) to immobilized surfactant protein A (SP-A), with an apparent dissociation constant of 53 picomolar at ∼21℃. Addition of a 200-fold molar excess of the latency associated peptide (LAP) prevented and dissociated the binding of 125I-TGF-β1 to SP-A, whereas latent TGF-β1 had no effect. Using a bioassay for TGF-β1 activity—a luciferase reporter assay—we were able to show that SP-A in the presence of TGF-β1 stimulated the TGF-β1 pathway, whereas SP-A alone had no effect. Studies with structural analogues of the distinct SP-A tail domain and head domain indicated that stimulatory activity of SP-A resided in the head domain. No activation of latent TGF-β1 by SP-A was observed. In addition, we observed that SP-A inhibited TGF-β1 inactivation by LAP. These results indicate that SP-A may have a regulatory role in the TGF-β1-mediated processes in the lung.
Effects of Fat Mass on Motor Development During the First 2 Years of Life
Authors: Andres Aline , Casey Patrick H. , Bellando Jayne , Cleves Mario A. , Badger Thomas M.
Published: May 2013

This study characterized total body fat mass (FM) and motor development during the first 2 years of life in healthy infants. Participants (n = 469) from the Beginnings Study cohort, a prospective, longitudinal study of early infant feeding, were assessed at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 months of age for a total of 2231 observations. Growth was evaluated using standard anthropometric techniques, and body composition was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Motor development was evaluated using Bayley Scales of Infant Development. Mixed-effects models adjusted for race, sex, gestational age, birth weight, birth length, and maternal education were used for data analyses. Greater weight-for-length Z-scores and overweight status were negatively associated with subsequent psychomotor development index (PDI) scores ( P < .01), and total body FM was negatively associated with concurrent and subsequent PDI scores ( P < .01). The relationship between total body FM and PDI scores was significant starting at 9 months ( −0.18, P = .01) until 24 months ( −0.39, P = .04). Infants with high total body FM ( ≥31%) scored 1.96 points lower on concurrent PDI and 3.05 points lower on subsequent PDI. However, neither anthropometric measures nor total body FM was associated with the clinical diagnosis of delayed motor development, defined by PDI scores below 85. Thus, greater FM and overweight status were significantly associated with lower motor development in early childhood, although average scores remained within the normal range.
Short-term in vivo biological and mechanical remodeling of porcine acellular dermal matrices
Authors: Monteiro Gary A. , Rodriguez Neil L. , Delossantos Aubrey I. , Wagner Christopher T.
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this study was to assess the biological revitalization and mechanical integrity of Strattice™ Reconstructive Tissue Matrix, a porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix, in vivo over time. We expanded the traditional subcutaneous model to incorporate biologic matrix scaffolds large enough to allow evaluation of mechanical properties in addition to the assessment of histological changes. Hematoxylin and eosin histology staining was used to evaluate cellular and tissue changes, and a mechanical testing frame was used to measure the ultimate tensile stress and Young’s modulus of the implanted material over time. Cell infiltration and blood vessel formation into the porcine-derived acellular dermal matrix were evident at 2 weeks and increased with implantation time. Mechanical remodeling resulted in an initial decrease in ultimate tensile stress, not associated with cell infiltration, followed by a significant increase in material strength, concurrent with histological evidence of new collagen synthesis. Young’s modulus followed a similar trend.
Prolonged hypothermia due to olanzapine in the setting of renal failure: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kansagra Ankit , Patel Sanket , Wilcox Susan Renee
Published: May 2013

Temperature dysregulation is an infrequent but previously documented adverse effect of antipsychotic medications. The majority of documented cases involve durations of hypothermia of less than 24 h. We present the case of a patient on therapeutic olanzapine for bipolar disease with dehydration from gastroenteritis leading to acute kidney injury in the setting of stage III chronic kidney disease, who presented with severe hypothermia of 31.2°C (88.2°F). He required active rewarming in the intensive care unit for a total of 9 days. This is the second case report of prolonged hypothermia from olanzapine in the setting of kidney disease. Clinicians should be aware that patients with renal dysfunction may be at increased risk for prolonged hypothermia from olanzapine.
Rest-Related Dynamics of Risk and Protective Factors for Depression
Authors: Marchetti Igor , Koster Ernst H. W. , De Raedt Rudi
Published: May 2013

Resting state provides an important condition to study depressogenic cognition because neuropsychological studies have indicated that rest is associated with heightened self-related processing. We examined relationships between rest-related internal focus, cognitive reactivity (vs. mindfulness), rumination, and negative mood outside the functional magnetic resonance imaging scanner in an undergraduate sample ( N = 80). We tested a theory-based effect by which, in the presence of cognitive risk (vs. protective) factors, internal focus lowers mood via ruminative self-focus. Such an effect was detected in individuals with high cognitive reactivity, whereas brooding showed only an incremental effect. However, this dynamic was not significant in individuals with low cognitive reactivity, despite the level of brooding, or high mindfulness. These results provide an important window on risk for depressogenic thought during resting state.
Characterization and genesis of horizontal banding in Brazilian agate: an X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric and electron microprobe study
Authors: Moxon T. , Petrone C. M. , Reed S. J. B.
Published: May 2013

Characterization of Brazilian agates containing a lower horizontally banded section and an upper chamber with bands parallel to the walls shows that these agates formed much later than the 135 Ma Paraná basalt host rock. Age differentiation between the two types of banding shows that the horizontal bands formed between 43 to 63 Ma ago with a final infill of wall-lining bands between 7 and 27 Ma later. The horizontal bands have a higher Al3+ concentration and a greater crystallite size than the wall-lining layers; they have a lower mogánite content and defect-site water content. The formation of these agates appears to be the result of a three-stage process. After the separate formation of horizontally banded and wall-lining agate, a silica infill seals the gap between the agate and the cavity wall. The detection of cristobalite in some specimens indicates that genesis of both the horizontally banded and wall-lining deposits in the Brazilian samples proceeds along an amorphous silica → opal-CT → opal-C → chalcedony pathway.
The solid solution between platinum and palladium in nature
Authors: Bindi L. , Zaccarini F. , Garuti G. , Angeli N.
Published: May 2013

Chemical and structural data are reported for platinum–palladium intermediates from two nuggets found at Córrego Bom Sucesso, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Three grains with simple stoichiometries (i.e. PtxPd1−x with x ∼0.67, ∼0.5 and ∼0.33, which correspond to Pt2Pd, PtPd and PtPd2, respectively) were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electron-probe microanalysis. In the absence of single-crystal data it might be tempting to hypothesize that such simple stoichiometries represent distinct mineral species, however structural analyses show that all of the phases are cubic and crystallize in space group Fmm. They are, therefore, natural intermediates in the palladium–platinum solid solution. Reflectance and micro-hardness values are reported for the samples and a comparison with the pure metallic elements made. On the basis of information gained from the chemical and structural characterization it can be concluded that there is a complete solid solution between Pt and Pd in nature. These findings corroborate results from experiments on synthetic compounds.
Structural complexity of minerals: information storage and processing in the mineral world
Authors: Krivovichev S. V.
Published: May 2013

Structural complexity of minerals is characterized using information contents of their crystal structures calculated according to the modified Shannon formula. The crystal structure is considered as a message consisting of atoms classified into equivalence classes according to their distribution over crystallographic orbits (Wyckoff sites). The proposed complexity measures combine both size- and symmetry-sensitive aspects of crystal structures. Information-based complexity parameters have been calculated for 3949 structure reports on minerals extracted from the Inorganic Crystal Structure Database. According to the total structural information content, IG, total, mineral structures can be classified into very simple (0–20 bits), simple (20–100 bits), intermediate (100–500 bits), complex (500–1000 bits), and very complex (> 1000 bits). The average information content for mineral structures is calculated as 228(6) bits per structure and 3.23(2) bits per atom. Twenty most complex mineral structures are (IG, total in bits): paulingite (6766.998), fantappieite (5948.330), sacrofanite (5317.353), mendeleevite-(Ce) (3398.878), bouazzerite (3035.201), megacyclite (2950.928), vandendriesscheite (2835.307), giuseppetite (2723.097), stilpnomelane (2483.819), stavelotite-(La) (2411.498), rogermitchellite (2320.653), parsettensite (2309.820), apjohnite (2305.361), antigorite (m = 17 polysome) (2250.397), tounkite (2187.799), tschoertnerite (2132.228), farneseite (2094.012), kircherite (2052.539), bannisterite (2031.017), and mutinaite (2025.067). The following complexity-generating mechanisms have been recognized: modularity, misfit relationships between structure elements, and presence of nanoscale units (clusters or tubules). Structural complexity should be distiguished from topological complexity. Structural complexity increases with decreasing temperature and increasing pressure, though at ultra-high pressures, the situation may be different. Quantitative complexity measures can be used to investigate evolution of information in the course of global and local geological processes involving formation and transformation of crystalline phases. The information-based complexity measures can also be used to estimate the 'ease of crystallization' from the viewpoint of simplexity principle proposed by J.R. Goldsmith (1953) for understanding of formation of simple and complex mineral phases under both natural and laboratory conditions. According to the proposed quantitative approach, the crystal structure can be viewed as a reservoir of information encoded in its complexity. Complex structures store more information than simple ones. As erasure of information is always associated with dissipation of energy, information stored in crystal structures of minerals must have an important influence upon natural processes. As every process can be viewed as a communication channel, the mineralogical history of our planet on any scale is a story of accumulation, storage, transmission and processing of structural information.
Minohlite, a new copper-zinc sulfate mineral from Minoh, Osaka, Japan
Authors: Ohnishi M. , Shimobayashi N. , Nishio-Hamane D. , Shinoda K. , Momma K. , Ikeda T.
Published: May 2013

Minohlite, a new copper-zinc sulfate mineral related to schulenbergite, was found in the oxidized zone of the Hirao mine at Minoh (Minoo) City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. The mineral occurs in cracks in altered shale as rosette aggregates up to 100 m m in diameter, composed of hexagonal platy crystals up to 50 μm m in diameter and 10 μm m in thickness. The associated minerals are chamosite, muscovite, smithsonite, serpierite, ramsbeckite, 'limonite' and chalcopyrite. Minohlite has hexagonal (or trigonal) symmetry with unit-cell parameters of a = 8.2535(11), c = 8.1352(17) Å, V = 479.93(16) Å3 and Z = 1, and possible space groups P6, P, P6/m, P22, P6mm, P2m and P6/mmm (or P3, P3, P321, P3m1, Pm1, P312, P31m and P1m). The six strongest reflections in the powder X-ray diffraction pattern [d in Å (I) hkl] are 8.138 (20) 001; 4.128 (24) 110; 2.702 (100) 120; 2.564 (76) 121; 1.560 (43) 140; and 1.532 (24) 141. Electron microprobe analyses gave the following values (wt.%): CuO 37.18, ZnO 21.08, FeO 0.49, SO3 16.78, SiO2 0.44, and H2O 24.03 (by difference). The empirical formula, calculated on the basis of Cu + Zn + Fe + S + Si = 9 atoms per formula unit, is (Cu4.43Zn2.45Fe0.06)Σ6.94[(SO4)1.99(SiO4)0.07]Σ2.06(OH)9.64·7.81H2O, which leads a simplified formula of (Cu,Zn)7(SO4)2(OH)10·8H2O where Cu > Zn. The mineral is bluish-green and transparent with a pearly to vitreous lustre. The streak is pale green. Cleavage is perfect on {001}. The Mohs hardness number is less than 2. The calculated density is 3.28 g cm−3. The mineral is named after Minoh City, where it was discovered.
Schlüterite-(Y), ideally (Y,REE)2Al(Si2O7)(OH)2F, a new mineral species from the Stetind pegmatite, Tysfjord, Nordland, Norway: description and crystal structure
Authors: Cooper M. A. , Husdal T. A. , Ball N. A. , Abdu Y. A. , Hawthorne F. C.
Published: May 2013

Schlüterite-(Y), ideally (Y,REE)2Al(Si2O7)(OH)2F, is a new silicate mineral species from the Stetind pegmatite, Tysfjord, Nordland, Norway. It forms dense, fibrous, radiating aggregates (up to ∼2 mm) diverging to individual needle-like crystals (up to ∼1 mm long) in cavities. Crystals are acicular to bladed, flattened on {001} and elongated along [010], and the dominant form is {001}. Schlüterite-(Y) is transparent, pale pink with a white streak and a vitreous lustre, and does not fluoresce under short-wave ultraviolet light. Mohs hardness is 5½–6, and schlüterite-(Y) is brittle with an irregular fracture, and has no cleavage. The calculated density is 4.644 g/cm3. The indices of refraction are α = 1.755, β = 1.760, γ = 1.770, all ± 0.005, 2Vobs = 71.8 (5)°, 2Vcalc = 71°, non-pleochroic, optic orientation is X ˆ a = 83.1° (β obtuse), Y//b, Z ˆ c = 50.3° (β acute). Schlüterite-(Y) is monoclinic, space group P21/c, a 7.0722(2), b 5.6198(1), c 21.4390(4) Å, β 122.7756(3)°, V 716.43(5) Å3, Z = 4. The seven strongest lines in the X-ray powder-diffraction pattern are as follows: [d (Å), I, (hkl)]: 4.769, 100, (012); 2.972, 55, (14); 3.289, 51, (112); 2.728, 49, (16); 2.810, 37, (020); 3.013, 37, ((16); 4.507, 36, (004). Chemical analysis by electron microprobe gave SiO2 22.64, Al2O3 9.45, Y2O3 15.35, La2O3 3.25, Ce2O3 9.69, Pr2O3 2.05, Nd2O3 9.50, Sm2O3 3.57, Gd2O3 4.65, Dy2O3 4.21, Er2O3 2.31, Yb2O3 1.86, F 2.71, H2Ocalc 3.78, O = F −1.14, sum 93.88 wt%. The H2O content was determined by crystal-structure analysis. On the basis of 10 anions with (OH) + F = 3 a.p.f.u. (atoms per formula unit), the empirical formula is (Y0.73Ce0.32Nd0.30Gd0.14Dy0.12La0.11Sm0.11Pr0.07Er0.06Yb0.05)Σ=2.01Al0.99Si2.01O7(OH)2.24F0.76. The crystal structure of schlüterite-(Y) was solved by direct methods and refined to an R1 index of 1.8% based on 1422 unique observed reflections. In the structure of schlüterite-(Y), Al(OH)4O2 octahedra share (OH)–(OH) edges to form [MΦ4] chains that are decorated by (Si2O7) groups that bridge O vertices of neighbouring octahedra in a staggered fashion on either side of the chain. These [Al(OH)2(Si2O7)] chains extend parallel to b, and are linked into a continuous framework via bonds to interstitial [8](Y,REE) (= <2.400 Å>) and [9](Y,REE) (= <2.548 Å>) atoms.
Manganoblödite, Na2Mn(SO4)2·4H2O, and cobaltoblödite, Na2Co(SO4)2·4H2O: two new members of the blödite group from the Blue Lizard mine, San Juan County, Utah, USA
Authors: Kasatkin A. V. , Nestola F. , Plášil J. , Marty J. , Belakovskiy D. I. , Agakhanov A. A. , Mills S. J. , Pedron D. , Lanza A. , Favaro M. , Bianchin S. , Lykova I. S. , Goliáš V. , Birch W. D.
Published: May 2013

Two new minerals – manganoblödite (IMA2012–029), ideally Na2Mn(SO4)2·4H2O, and cobaltoblödite (IMA2012–059), ideally Na2Co(SO4)2·4H2O, the Mn-dominant and Co-dominant analogues of blödite, respectively, were found at the Blue Lizard mine, San Juan County, Utah, USA. They are closely associated with blödite (Mn-Co-Ni-bearing), chalcanthite, gypsum, sideronatrite, johannite, quartz and feldspar. Both new minerals occur as aggregates of anhedral grains up to 60 μm (manganoblödite) and 200 μm (cobaltoblödite) forming thin crusts covering areas up to 2 × 2 cm on the surface of other sulfates. Both new species often occur as intimate intergrowths with each other and also with Mn-Co-Ni-bearing blödite. Manganoblödite and cobaltoblödite are transparent, colourless in single grains and reddish-pink in aggregates and crusts, with a white streak and vitreous lustre. Their Mohs' hardness is ∼2½. They are brittle, have uneven fracture and no obvious parting or cleavage. The measured and calculated densities are Dmeas = 2.25(2) g cm−3 and Dcalc = 2.338 g cm−3 for manganoblödite and Dmeas = 2.29(2) g cm−3 and Dcalc = 2.347 g cm−3 for cobaltoblödite. Optically both species are biaxial negative. The mean refractive indices are α = 1.493(2), β = 1.498(2) and γ = 1.501(2) for manganoblödite and α = 1.498(2), β = 1.503(2) and γ = 1.505(2) for cobaltoblödite. The chemical composition of manganoblödite (wt.%, electron-microprobe data) is: Na2O 16.94, MgO 3.29, MnO 8.80, CoO 2.96, NiO 1.34, SO3 45.39, H2O (calc.) 20.14, total 98.86. The empirical formula, calculated on the basis of 12 O a.p.f.u., is: Na1.96(Mn0.44Mg0.29Co0.14Ni0.06)Σ0.93S2.03O8·4H2O. The chemical composition of cobaltoblödite (wt.%, electron-microprobe data) is: Na2O 17.00, MgO 3.42, MnO 3.38, CoO 7.52, NiO 2.53, SO3 45.41, H2O (calc.) 20.20, total 99.46. The empirical formula, calculated on the basis of 12 O a.p.f.u., is: Na1.96(Co0.36Mg0.30Mn0.17Ni0.12)Σ 0.95S2.02O8·4H2O. Both minerals are monoclinic, space group P21/a, with a = 11.137(2), b = 8.279(1), c = 5.5381(9) Å, β = 100.42(1)°, V = 502.20(14) Å3 and Z = 2 (manganoblödite); and a = 11.147(1), b = 8.268(1), C = 5.5396(7) Å, β = 100.517(11)°, V = 501.97(10) Å3 and Z = 2 (cobaltoblödite). The strongest diffractions from X-ray powder pattern [listed as (d,Å(I)(hkl)] are for manganoblödite: 4.556(70)(210, 011); 4.266(45)(01); 3.791(26)(11); 3.338(21)(310); 3.291(100)(220, 021), 3.256(67)(211, 21), 2.968(22)(21), 2.647(24)(01); for cobaltoblödite: 4.551(80)(210, 011); 4.269(50)(01); 3.795(18)(11); 3.339(43)(310); 3.29(100)(220, 021), 3.258(58)(11, 21), 2.644(21)(01), 2.296(22)(122). The crystal structures of both minerals were refined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction to R1 = 0.0459 (manganoblödite) and R1 = 0.0339 (cobaltoblödite).
Hylbrownite, Na3MgP3O10·12H2O, a new triphosphate mineral from the Dome Rock Mine, South Australia: description and crystal structure
Authors: Elliott P. , Brugger J. , Caradoc-Davies T. , Pring A.
Published: May 2013

Hylbrownite, ideally Na3MgP3O10·12H2O, the second known triphosphate mineral, is a new mineral species from the Dome Rock mine, Boolcoomatta Reserve, Olary Province, South Australia, Australia. The mineral forms aggregates and sprays of crystals up to 0.5 mm across with individual crystals up to 0.12 mm in length and 0.02 mm in width. Crystals are thin prismatic to acicular in habit and are elongate along [001]. Forms observed are {010}, {100}, {001}, {210} and {201}. Crystals are colourless to white, possess a white streak, are transparent, brittle, have a vitreous lustre and are nonfluorescent. The measured density is 1.81(4) g cm−3; Mohs' hardness was not determined. Cleavage is good parallel to {001} and to {100} and the fracture is uneven. Hylbrownite crystals are nonpleochroic, biaxial (−), with α = 1.390(4), β = 1.421(4), γ = 1.446(4) and 2Vcalc. = 82.2°. Hylbrownite is monoclinic, space group P21/n, with a = 14.722(3), b = 9.240(2), c = 15.052(3) Å, β = 90.01(3)°, V = 2047.5(7) Å3, (single-crystal data) and Z = 4. The strongest lines in the powder X-ray diffraction pattern are [d (Å)(I)(hkl)]: 10.530(60)(10,101), 7.357(80)(200), 6.951(100)(11, 111), 4.754(35)(10, 103), 3.934(40)(022), 3.510(45)(30, 303), 3.336(35)(41, 411). Chemical analysis by electron microprobe gave Na2O 16.08, MgO 7.08, CaO 0.43, P2O5 37.60, H2Ocalc 38.45, total 99.64 wt.%. The empirical formula, calculated on the basis of 22 oxygen atoms is Na2.93Mg0.99Ca0.04P2.99O9.97·12.03H2O. The crystal structure was solved from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data using synchrotron radiation (T = 123 K) and refined to R1 = 4.50% on the basis of 2417 observed reflections with F0 > 4 σ(F0). [Mg(H2O)3P3O10] clusters link in the b direction to Naφ6 octahedra, by face and corner sharing. Edge sharing Naφ6 Octahedra and Naφ7 polyhedra form Na2O9 groups which link via corners to form chains along the b direction. Chains link to [Mg(H2O)3P3O10] clusters via corner-sharing in the c direction and form a thick sheet parallel to (100). Sheets are linked in the a direction via hydrogen bonds.
Human iPS cell–derived hematopoietic progenitor cells induce T-cell anergy in in vitro–generated alloreactive CD8+ T cells
Authors: Kim Eun-Mi , Manzar Gohar , Zavazava Nicholas
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Human iPSCs differentiate into CD34+ HPCs. iPSC-derived HPCs induce T-cell anergy.
Induction of B7-H6, a ligand for the natural killer cell–activating receptor NKp30, in inflammatory conditions
Authors: Matta Jessica , Baratin Myriam , Chiche Laurent , Forel Jean-Marie , Cognet Céline , Thomas Guillemette , Farnarier Catherine , Piperoglou Christelle , Papazian Laurent , Chaussabel Damien , Ugolini Sophie , Vély Frédéric , Vivier Eric
Published: May 2013

Key Points

B7-H6 transcripts, B7-H6 cell-surface expression, and sB7-H6 can be induced in inflammatory conditions in vitro and in vivo. B7-H6 is expressed on proinflammatory CD14+CD16+ monocytes in sepsis conditions and is linked to an increased mortality.
Defects in neutrophil granule mobilization and bactericidal activity in familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 5 (FHL-5) syndrome caused by STXBP2/Munc18-2 mutations
Authors: Zhao Xi Wen , Gazendam Roel P. , Drewniak Agata , van Houdt Michel , Tool Anton T. J. , van Hamme John L. , Kustiawan Iwan , Meijer Alexander B. , Janssen Hans , Russell David G. , van de Corput Lisette , Tesselaar Kiki , Boelens Jaap J. , Kuhnle Ingrid , Ten Bosch Jutte Van Der Werff , Kuijpers Taco W. , van den Berg Timo K.
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Neutrophils of patients with FHL-5 with Munc18-2/STXBP2 mutations have impaired granule fusion and bacterial killing.
Estimate of nocturnal blood pressure and detection of non-dippers based on clinical or ambulatory monitoring in the inpatient setting
Authors: Xu Tan , Zhang Yongqing , Tan Xuerui
Published: May 2013

Background

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is regarded as the gold standard for monitoring nocturnal blood pressure (NBP) and is usually performed out of office. Currently, a novel method for monitoring NBP is indispensible in the inpatient setting. The widely used manual BP monitoring procedure has the potential to monitor NBP in the hospital setting. The feasibility and accuracy of manual sphygmomanometer to monitor NBP has not been explored widely.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the cardiology department of a university-affiliated hospital to study patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension. One hundred and fifty-five patients were recruited to compare BP derived from a manual device and ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM). The manual BP measurement was performed six times at 22:00, 02:00, 06:00, 10:00, 14:00 and 18:00 h. The measurements at 22:00, 02:00 and 06:00 h were defined as night-time and the others as daytime. ABPM was programmed to measure at 30-min intervals between measurements.

Results

All-day, daytime and night-time BP did not differ significantly from 24-h ambulatory systolic BP [all-day mean difference −0.52±4.67 mmHg, 95% confidence interval (CI) –1.26 to 0.22, P=0.168; daytime mean difference 0.24±5.45 mmHg, 95% CI −0.62 to 1.11, P=0.580; night-time mean difference 0.30±7.22 mmHg, 95% CI −0.84 to 1.45, P=0.601) rather than diastolic BP. There was a strong correlation between clinical and ambulatory BP for both systolic and diastolic BP. On the basis of ABPM, 101 (65%) patients were classified as non-dippers, compared with 106 (68%) by manual sphygmomanometer (P<0.001).

Conclusions

Traditional manual sphygmomanometer provides similar daytime and night-time systolic BP measurements in hospital. Moreover, the detection of non-dippers by manual methods is in good agreement with 24-h ABPM. Further studies are required to confirm the clinical relevance of these findings by comparing the association of NBP in the hospital ward assessed by manual monitoring with preclinical organ damage and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes.
Rationale, design and organization of the delayed antibiotic prescription (DAP) trial: a randomized controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of delayed antibiotic prescribing strategies in the non-complicated acute respiratory tract infections in general practice
Authors: de la Poza Abad Mariam , Mas Dalmau Gemma , Moreno Bakedano Mikel , González González Ana Isabel , Canellas Criado Yolanda , Hernández Anadón Silvia , Rotaeche del Campo Rafael , Torán Monserrat Pere , Negrete Palma Antonio , Pera Guillem , Borrell Thió Eulàlia , LLor Carl , Little Paul , Alonso Coello Pablo ,   for the Delayed Antibiotic Prescription (DAP) Working Group
Published: May 2013

Background

Respiratory tract infections are an important burden in primary care and it’s known that they are usually self-limited and that antibiotics only alter its course slightly. This together with the alarming increase of bacterial resistance due to increased use of antimicrobials calls for a need to consider strategies to reduce their use. One of these strategies is the delayed prescription of antibiotics.

Methods

Multicentric, parallel, randomised controlled trial comparing four antibiotic prescribing strategies in acute non-complicated respiratory tract infections. We will include acute pharyngitis, rhinosinusitis, acute bronchitis and acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (mild to moderate). The therapeutic strategies compared are: immediate antibiotic treatment, no antibiotic treatment, and two delayed antibiotic prescribing (DAP) strategies with structured advice to use a course of antibiotics in case of worsening of symptoms or not improving (prescription given to patient or prescription left at the reception of the primary care centre 3 days after the first medical visit).

Discussion

Delayed antibiotic prescription has been widely used in Anglo-Saxon countries, however, in Southern Europe there has been little research about this topic. The DAP trial wil evaluate two different delayed strategies in Spain for the main respiratory infections in primary care.

Trial registration

This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number http://NCT01363531.
Transcultural adaptation and initial validation of Brazilian-Portuguese version of the Basel assessment of adherence to immunosuppressive medications scale (BAASIS) in kidney transplants
Authors: Marsicano Elisa de Oliveira , Fernandes Neimar da Silva , Colugnati Fernando , Grincenkov Fabiane Rossi dos Santos , Fernandes Natalia Maria da Silva , De Geest Sabina , Sanders-Pinheiro Helady
Published: May 2013

Background

Transplant recipients are expected to adhere to a lifelong immunosuppressant therapeutic regimen. However, nonadherence to treatment is an underestimated problem for which no properly validated measurement tool is available for Portuguese-speaking patients. We aimed to initially validate the Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale (BAASIS®) to accurately estimate immunosuppressant nonadherence in Brazilian transplant patients.

Methods

The BAASIS® (English version) was transculturally adapted and its psychometric properties were assessed. The transcultural adaptation was performed using the Guillemin protocol. Psychometric testing included reliability (intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility, agreement, Kappa coefficient, and the Cronbach’s alpha) and validity (content, criterion, and construct validities).

Results

The final version of the transculturally adapted BAASIS® was pretested, and no difficulties in understanding its content were found. The intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility variances (0.007 and 0.003, respectively), the Cronbach’s alpha (0.7), Kappa coefficient (0.88) and the agreement (95.2%) suggest accuracy, preciseness and reliability. For construct validity, exploratory factorial analysis demonstrated unidimensionality of the first three questions (r = 0.76, r = 0.80, and r = 0.68). For criterion validity, the adapted BAASIS® was correlated with another self-report instrument, the Measure of Adherence to Treatment, and showed good congruence (r = 0.65).

Conclusions

The BAASIS® has adequate psychometric properties and may be employed in advance to measure adherence to posttransplant immunosuppressant treatments. This instrument will be the first one validated to use in this specific transplant population and in the Portuguese language.