bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Intersectoral Health Promotion Changes Professional Practices: A Case Study From Denmark
Authors: Christensen Mads , Burau Viola , Ledderer Loni
Published: May 2018

Intersectoral health promotion (IHP) has pushed health professions to engage in new tasks and interprofessional ways of working. We studied how care assistants from a nursing home and school teachers implemented a cookery project targeted at children (“Cool Beans”) as an example of an IHP project in Denmark. Our aim was to examine the impact of the IHP project on the practices of the professions involved. We used a qualitative case study to investigate joint care and teaching situations with the two professions and their users. Our data consisted of documents, participatory observations, and informal interviews (17 hours) as well as semistructured interviews with professionals (n = 4). We used a sociological institutional framework to analyze the professional practices emerging in joint care and teaching situations and identified three themes of new professional activities: (1) “interplay” related to making different generations collaborate on the tasks involved in the cookery session; (2) “care” concerned with caregiving activities; and (3) “learning” focused on schooling on healthy food and cooking. We conclude that changes in professional practices occurred informally and were induced by the concrete activities in the cookery project. The specific, practical tasks of the IHP project thus offered an important leverage for future interprofessional collaborations.
Parent–Child Care as a Brief Dyadic Intervention for Children With Mild to Moderate Externalizing Problems: A Case Study
Authors: Hawk Brandi N. , Timmer Susan G.
Published: May 2018

Although many parenting interventions have been shown efficacious in reducing externalizing behavior problems in young children, they often take months to implement and tend to target children with moderate to severe behavior problems. Parent–Child Care (PC-CARE) was designed to be an engaging, brief (six-session) dyadic intervention to reduce mental health symptoms even for children with few behavior problems and/or parents who are unable to commit to lengthy treatments. We present an evidence-based case study of a 5-year-old child with mild externalizing problems and his biological parents, who participated in PC-CARE. Standardized measures were collected, and the child’s and parents’ emotional availability were assessed at pre- and posttreatment. Weekly codings of parent–child interactions and parent-reported measures of child behaviors were also collected. This child’s behavioral symptoms improved from pre- to posttreatment (per parents’ reports and observation), and he maintained this improved behavior 1 month after treatment. The parents similarly demonstrated improvement in their use of parenting skills and emotional availability. Aspects of treatment that may affect effectiveness are discussed.
Successful thrombectomy in endocarditis-related stroke: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bolognese Manuel , von Hessling Alexander , Müller Martin
Published: May 2018

Neurological complications of infective endocarditis are frequent, especially ischaemic strokes. As intravenous thrombolysis in infective endocarditis-related ischaemic stroke has a controversial benefit/risk ratio, alternative treatment regimens have to be considered. We present the case of a young patient with septic embolism of the middle cerebral artery who was successfully treated with mechanical thrombectomy, and give a short review of the existing literature.
Chronic inflammatory pain decreases the glutamate vesicles in presynaptic terminals of the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Qi Chuchu , Guo Baolin , Ren Keke , Yao Han , Wang Mengmeng , Sun Tangna , Cai Guohong , Liu Haiying , Li Rui , Luo Ceng , Wang Wenting , Wu Shengxi
Published: May 2018

Reward system has been proved to be important to nociceptive behavior, and the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a key node in reward circuitry. It has been further revealed that dopamine system modulates the NAc to influence the pain sensation, whereas the role of glutamatergic projection in the NAc in the modulation of chronic pain is still elusive. In this study, we used a complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced chronic inflammatory pain model to explore the changes of the glutamatergic terminals in the NAc, and we found that following the chronic inflammation, the protein level of vesicular glutamate transporter1 (VGLUT1) was significantly decreased in the NAc. Immunofluorescence staining further showed a reduced expression of VGLUT1-positive terminals in the dopamine receptor 2 (D2R) spiny projection neurons of NAc after chronic inflammatory pain. Furthermore, using a whole-cell recording in double transgenic mice, in which dopamine receptor 1- and D2R-expressing neurons can be visualized, we found that the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents was significantly decreased and paired-pulse ratio of evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents was increased in D2R neurons, but not in dopamine receptor 1 neurons in NAc of complete Freund’s adjuvant group. Moreover, the abnormal expression of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor complex contributed to the reduced formation of glutamate vesicles. Hence, our results demonstrated that decreased glutamate release in the indirect pathway of the NAc may be a critical mechanism for chronic pain and provided a novel evidence for the presynaptic mechanisms in chronic pain regulation.
Interdisciplinarity and technology-enhanced learning: Reflections from art and design and educational perspectives
Authors: Sclater Madeleine , Lally Vic
Published: May 2018

The main focus of this article is our project of reimagining higher education for ourselves and our students using the central theme of technology-enhanced learning (TEL), which is inextricably linked to education in the present and in the future in many contexts. We argue that interdisciplinarity and interdisciplinary working are central and essential features of TEL and, yet, they are largely invisible in the TEL literature. TEL itself is still largely invisible in the sociology of education literature and, hence, suffers ‘dual invisibility’. We suggest that this may be connected to the crisis that has beset TEL research and pedagogy. We examine the power of theory in TEL work, citing the use of cultural–historical activity theory (CHAT) in our own TEL work. A detailed account of an interdisciplinary, theory-informed TEL project is provided, and this is analysed to explore how the weave between disciplines, particularly art and design, and education, and interdisciplinary project working can be mutually beneficial in our project of reimagining higher education for work and study.
Technologies, learning and culture: Some emerging themes
Authors: Lally Vic , Sclater Madeleine , Brown Ken
Published: May 2018

This paper reflects on some of the themes emerging from a consideration of recent research at the nexus of technologies, learning and culture. The authors comment on the expansive nature of the concept of learning spaces in papers featuring an investigation of technology enhanced learning (TEL) and communication design studios in the UK and Australia, the use of interdisciplinary research collaborations to develop novel implementations of TEL learning spaces, and the challenges of developing an e-university in Malawi. They also examine a comparative study focused on classroom-based learning spaces augmented by computer-based assessment technologies, and the role of TEL both within and in response to protests at universities in South Africa. Massive open online courses are then considered as distinctive educational designs that may offer diverse student experiences, either formal or informal. The next emerging theme considers the sources of tension and richness arising from the widely divergent values that can be embedded in TEL. This is followed by consideration of infrastructural issues and the technologies–learning–culture nexus, followed by the use of theory in TEL work, leading to interdisciplinary theory-informed TEL projects that may be beneficial in the wider project of reimagining higher education for work and study. Finally, the paper examines the theme of mobile TEL and the hegemonic issues surrounding the building of sustainable and authentic foundations for learning with mobiles in the globalised South. The theme points to the methodologically challenging and problematic aspects of this hegemonic analysis and considers how the arguments may be further developed.
Ankylosing spondylitis and axial spondyloarthritis: recent insights and impact of new classification criteria
Authors: Proft Fabian , Poddubnyy Denis
Published: May 2018

Development of the Assessment in Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) classification criteria for axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) was one of the major breakthroughs in the field over the past decade. Despite some concerns related to the specificity of the criteria, they stimulated research into the early stage of the disease. This resulted in major advances in the understanding of the course of the disease, revealing predictors of progression, improvement in early diagnosis and treatment in axial SpA. In this review, we summarize the recent developments resulting from the introduction of the ASAS classification criteria for axial SpA and the implications for research and clinical practice.
Dosing challenges with direct oral anticoagulants in the elderly: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Fava Joseph P. , Starr Katelyn M. , Ratz David , Clemente Jennifer L.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) provide patients with attractive options for anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation (AF). However, dosing these agents in the elderly can be challenging due to factors such as drug interactions, reduced renal function, and less frequent monitoring. This study addressed this challenge by reviewing the dosing of three commonly used DOACs (i.e. apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban) in elderly patients managed at a pharmacist-run anticoagulation clinic.

Methods:

This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study. A total of 98 cases of DOAC therapy in patients with AF aged 75 years or older receiving care at a large urban healthcare center were identified via chart review. Dosing of each DOAC was assessed at therapy initiation and throughout treatment whenever a serum creatinine was reported, using the Cockcroft–Gault equation to estimate creatinine clearance (CrCl). Dose excursions (defined as instances where patients were exposed to non-Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved doses) were documented in each case. Rationales for dose excursions were determined by study investigators via review of progress notes and categorized using clinical judgement.

Results:

Upon therapy initiation apixaban was dosed in accordance with FDA recommendations in 92.9% of patient cases, dabigatran in 91.2% of cases, and rivaroxaban in 86.1% of cases ( p = 0.70). FDA-recommended dosing was maintained throughout treatment at the highest rates with dabigatran (88.2% versus 78.6% with apixaban and 58.3% with rivaroxaban; p = 0.01, p = 0.005 for dabigatran versus rivaroxaban). The most common rationales for dose excursion were fluctuation in estimated CrCl near the dosing cutoff, and recommendations from nonpharmacist providers co-managing the patient.

Conclusions:

Prescribing and maintaining FDA-recommended doses of DOAC agents in the elderly is more challenging than initially perceived. Fluctuations in renal function, comorbidities, and concomitant antiplatelet use may necessitate more individualized dosing strategies with these agents.
Cardiac events within one year after a subarachnoid haemorrhage: The predictive value of troponin elevation after aneurysm occlusion
Authors: Akkermans Annemarie , Peelen Linda M , van Waes Judith A , Rinkel Gabriël J , van Klei Wilton A
Published: May 2018

Background

Patients who survive after an aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (ASAH) have an increased incidence of cardiovascular events compared with the general population. We assessed whether troponin elevation after aneurysm occlusion, as marker of myocardial injury, can predict long-term cardiac events.

Methods

We analysed a prospectively collected cohort of 159 patients with ASAH and early aneurysm occlusion, in whom routine post-intervention troponin I (TnI) measurements were performed. With competing risk regression modelling we estimated the association between TnI elevation after aneurysm occlusion and major adverse cardiac events within one year. Secondary outcome measures were all-cause mortality and neurological condition within one year. The predictive value of post-intervention TnI was compared with the predictive value of pre-intervention characteristics using c-statistics and the integrated discrimination improvement index.

Results

Subdistribution hazard ratios for TnI elevation and major adverse cardiac events at one year were 1.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.07) per 10 ng/l increase in TnI and 7.91 (95% CI 1.46–43.0) for any TnI elevation. After adjustment for pre-intervention variables, the subdistribution hazard ratios were 1.47 (95% CI 0.81–2.67) per 10 ng/l and 9.00 (95% CI 1.62–50.1) for any elevation. The c-statistic was 0.71 for TnI elevation as a continuous measure and 0.69 for any TnI elevation. The integrated discrimination improvement index showed a minimum improvement in prediction of 0.08 (interquartile range 0.06 to 0.09) for TnI as a continuous measure and 0.003 (interquartile range −0.004 to 0.01) for any TnI elevation, when compared with pre-intervention characteristics.

Conclusion

TnI elevation after occlusion of a ruptured intracranial aneurysm predicts the occurrence of a major adverse cardiac event within one year after ASAH.
Optimal duration for continuation of statin therapy in bacteremic patients
Authors: Pawar Ajinkya M. , LaPlante Kerry L. , Timbrook Tristan T. , Caffrey Aisling R.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Evidence suggests statins may improve survival in patients with bloodstream infections. However, there is no consensus on optimal timing and duration of exposure.

Objectives:

To quantify statin therapy duration associated with decreased mortality in bacteremic statin users.

Methods:

We conducted a case-control study using OptumClinformatics™ with matched Premier hospital data (1 October 2009–31 March 2013). Cases who died during the hospitalization were matched 1:1 to survivors on disease risk scores (DRSs). Post-admission statin therapy duration was evaluated in patients with at least 90 days of pre-admission continuous statin use. Classification and regression tree (CART) analysis was conducted to identify the optimal duration of statin continuation which provided the lowest inpatient mortality. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds of mortality.

Results:

We included 58 DRS matched pairs of cases and controls: 47 patients (41%) continued statin therapy during the hospital admission, 15 (32%) cases and 32 (68%) controls. The CART analysis partitioned the continuation of statin therapy at ⩾2 days, representing lower mortality for patients who continued statins for 2 days or more and higher mortality for patients who did not continue or remained on statins for only 1 day. Inpatient mortality was 76% lower among those with at least 2 days of continued statin use (odds ratio 0.24, 95% confidence interval 0.11–0.55).

Conclusion:

Among matched cases and controls with at least 90 days of baseline statin use prior to the admission, the continuation of statins for at least 2 days after admission demonstrated a survival benefit among bacteremic patients.
Apps and wearables for monitoring physical activity and sedentary behaviour: A qualitative systematic review protocol on barriers and facilitators
Authors: Wilde Laura J , Ward Gillian , Sewell Louise , Müller Andre M , Wark Petra A
Published: May 2018

Objective

Monitoring of physical activity and sedentary behaviours by mobile phone applications (apps) and wearable technology (wearables) may improve these health behaviours. This systematic review aims to synthesise the qualitative literature on the barriers and facilitators of using apps and wearables for monitoring physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour in adults.

Methods

This review protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017070194). Scientific databases including CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Library and Scopus will be searched for relevant studies published from 1 January 2012 to the date the searches are conducted. Studies will be included if they incorporated adults who used an app or wearable for monitoring physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour; explored the barriers and/or facilitators of using an app and/or wearable; and were published in English. Following duplicate screening of titles and abstracts, full texts of potentially eligible papers will be screened to identify studies using qualitative approaches to explore barriers and facilitators of using apps and/or wearables for monitoring physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour. Discrepancies will be resolved through consensus or by consulting a third screener. Relevant excerpts (quotes and text) from the included papers will be extracted and analysed thematically. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Research Checklist will be used to appraise included studies.

Conclusion

The results of this work will be useful for those intending to monitor physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour using these technologies.
Comparison and transformation between CDISC ODM and EN13606 EHR standards in connecting EHR data with clinical trial research data
Authors: Tapuria Archana , Bruland Philipp , Delaney Brendan , Kalra Dipak , Curcin Vasa
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Integrating Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems into the field of clinical trials still contains several challenges and obstacles. Heterogeneous standards and specifications are used to represent healthcare and clinical trial information. Therefore, this work investigates the mapping and data interoperability between healthcare and research standards: EN13606 used for the EHRs and the Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium Operational Data Model (CDISC ODM) used for clinical research.

Methods

Based on the specifications of CDISC ODM 1.3.2 and EN13606, a mapping between the structure and components of both standards has been performed. Archetype Definition Language (ADL) forms built with the EN13606 editor were transformed to ODM XML and reviewed. As a proof of concept, clinical sample data has been transformed into ODM and imported into an electronic data capture system. Reverse transformation from ODM to ADL has also been performed and finally reviewed concerning map-ability.

Results

The mapping between EN13606 and CDISC ODM shows the similarities and differences between the components and overall record structure of the two standards. An EN13606 archetype corresponds with a group of items within CDISC ODM. Transformations of element names, descriptions, different languages, datatypes, cardinality, optionality, units, value range and terminology codes are possible from EN13606 to CDISC ODM and vice versa.

Conclusion

It is feasible to map data elements between EN13606 and CDISC ODM and transformation of forms between ADL and ODM XML format is possible with only minor limitations. EN13606 can accommodate clinical information in a more structured manner with more constraints, whereas CDISC ODM is more suitable and specific for clinical trials and studies. It is feasible to transform EHR data in the EN13606 form to ODM to transfer it into research database. The attempt to use EN13606 to build a study protocol (that was already built with CDISC ODM) also suggests the possibility of using EN13606 standard in place of CDISC ODM if needed to avoid transformations.
Clinical efficacy of teriflunomide over a fixed 2-year duration in the TOWER study
Authors: Freedman Mark S , Morawski Julia , Thangavelu Karthinathan
Published: May 2018

Patients enrolled in the phase 3 TOWER study (NCT00751881) of teriflunomide had variable treatment durations (48–173 weeks). This has led to challenges when interpreting results in the context of other phase 3 trials of disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis, which typically have a fixed 2-year duration. This communication reports clinical outcomes in TOWER over a fixed 2-year period. Reductions in annualised relapse rates and 12-week confirmed disability worsening associated with teriflunomide were comparable between overall intent-to-treat and fixed 2-year study populations in TOWER. Consistency in outcomes supports the inclusion of TOWER data in comparative analyses with other disease-modifying therapies.

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00751881.
How Older Consumers’ Perceived Ethicality Influences Brand Loyalty
Authors: Eryandra Alvin , Sjabadhyni Bertina , Mustika Martina Dwi
Published: May 2018

Brand loyalty, that is, a consumer’s propensity to purchase a product or a brand continuously, is one factor that can be used to increase a company’s profits. Initially, consumers may do some evaluation before they decide whether or not to be loyal to a brand or a product. Previous research suggests that consumer perceived ethicality predicts brand loyalty through brand affect. The aim of this study is to examine if brand affect influences the relationship between consumer perceived ethicality and brand loyalty in Indonesian older adult consumers. This study involved 331 older adult bottled water consumers in Indonesia, who participated by completing a set of questionnaires. Mediation analysis results suggest that brand affect only partially influences the relationship between consumer perceived ethicality and brand loyalty. It can be concluded that a brand’s ethicality is a greater consideration than brand affection for older adult consumers to remain loyal toward a brand.
Drivers of Patient Costs in Accessing HIV/AIDS Services in Tanzania
Authors: Mnzava Thomas , Mmari Eunice , Berruti Andres
Published: May 2018

Background:

Patient costs pose a challenge in accessing antiretroviral therapy for people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. The study aimed at identifying drivers for out-of-pocket (OOP) costs in Tanzania.

Methods:

In 2009, 500 adult patients who attended 10 HIV clinics across 7 regions of Tanzania were asked about time and resources consumed to access HIV services. Bivariate and multivariate median regression models were used to determine the main drivers for OOP costs.

Results:

Male and female patients have a median OOP costs of $40.37 and $28.01 per year, respectively ( P = .01). Males spend significantly more on travel ($26.51) than females ($19.68; P = .02). Living in rural areas and poor social economic status (SES) are associated with greater OOP costs ( P = .001) for both sexes.

Conclusion:

Poor SES and rural residence are main drivers of OOP costs. Patients are less likely to seek health care unless they are in dire need, leading to expensive services.
Making Contact: VAP Targeting by Intracellular Pathogens
Authors: Murray Rebecca , Derré Isabelle
Published: May 2018

In naïve cells, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the ER-resident Vesicle-associated membrane protein- Associated Proteins (VAP) are common components of sites of membrane contacts that mediate the nonvesicular transfer of lipids between organelles. There is increasing recognition that the hijacking of VAP by intracellular pathogens is a novel mechanism of host–pathogen interaction. Here, we summarize our recent findings showing that the Chlamydia inclusion membrane protein IncV tethers the ER to the inclusion membrane by binding to VAP via the molecular mimicry of two eukaryotic FFAT motifs. We extend the discussion to other microorganisms that have evolved similar mechanisms.
Knowledge and Awareness of CT Radiation Dose and Risk Among Patients
Authors: Al Ewaidat Haytham , Zheng Xiaoming , Khader Yousef , Spuur Kelly , Abdelrahman Mostafa , Alhasan Mostafa Khaled Mustafa , Al-Hourani Zeid A.
Published: May 2018

The study aims to assess the level of patients’ awareness and knowledge regarding radiation and dosage along with the associated risks from computed tomography (CT) scan. This cross-sectional study used questionnaires, which were distributed to the diagnostic imaging departments of six large local hospitals in Jordan between September 2014 and March 2015. A total of 600 patients completed the questionnaire, out of which, 52.33% of respondents were female and 47.6% male. The findings show insignificant effects of gender on patient’s knowledge ( P = .596) and significant effect of employment and profession on positive scores ( P = .000). Similarly, no statistical differences were found between gender and correct answers ( P = .707). This cohort of patients demonstrated a lack of awareness and knowledge about the use of ionizing radiation for diagnostic imaging. Thus, there may exist a similar lack of information that will require imaging professionals to raise patients’ awareness and offer them the appropriate information.
The crystal-structure determination and redefinition of eztlite, Pb22+Fe33+(Te4+O3)3(SO4)O2Cl
Authors: Missen Owen P. , Mills Stuart J. , Spratt John , Welch Mark D. , Birch William D. , Rumsey Michael S. , Vylita Jan
Published: May 2018

The crystal structure of eztlite has been determined using single-crystal synchrotron X-ray diffraction and supported using electron microprobe analysis and powder diffraction. Eztlite, a secondary tellurium mineral from the Moctezuma mine, Mexico, is monoclinic, space groupCm, witha= 11.466(2) Å,b= 19.775(4) Å,c= 10.497(2) Å, β = 102.62(3)° andV= 2322.6(9) Å3. The chemical formula of eztlite has been revised to${\rm Pb}_{\rm 2}^{2 +} {\rm Fe}_3^{3 +} $(Te4+O3)3(SO4)O2Cl from that stated previously as${\rm Fe}_6^{3 +} {\rm Pb}_{\rm 2}^{2 +} $(Te4+O3)3(Te6+O6)(OH)10·nH2O. This change has been accepted by the Commission on New Minerals, Nomenclature and Classification of the International Mineralogical Association, Proposal 18-A. Eztlite was reported originally to be a mixed-valence Te oxysalt; however the crystal structure, bond-valence analysis and charge balance considerations clearly show that all Te is tetravalent. Eztlite contains a unique combination of elements and is only the second Te oxysalt to contain both sulfate and chloride. The crystal structure of eztlite contains mitridatite-like layers, with a repeating triangular nonameric [${\rm Fe}_9^{3 +} $O36]45–arrangement formed by nine edge-sharing Fe3+O6octahedra, decorated by four trigonal pyramidal Te4+O3groups, compared to PO4or AsO4tetrahedra in mitridatite-type minerals. In eztlite, all four tellurite groups associated with one nonamer are orientated with the lone pair of the Te atoms pointing in the same direction, whereas in mitridatite the central tetrahedron is orientated in the opposite direction to the others. In mitridatite-type structures, interlayer connections are formed exclusivelyviaCa2+and water molecules, whereas the eztlite interlayer contains Pb2+, sulfate tetrahedra and Cl–. Interlayer connectivity in eztlite is achieved primarily by connectionsviathe long bonds of Pbφ8and Pbφ9groups to sulfate tetrahedra and to Cl–. Secondary connectivity isviaTe–O and Te–Cl bonds.
Cation distribution and valence in synthetic Al–Mn–O and Fe–Mn–O spinels under varying conditions
Authors: Stokes Thomas N. , Bromiley Geoffrey. D. , Gatta G. Diego , Rotiroti Nicola , Potts Nicola J. , Saunders Kate
Published: May 2018

The spinel-group minerals, found in a range of igneous rocks, are resistant to weathering and can incorporate several multivalent elements, meaning they have the potential to provide insight into the redox conditions of parental magmas. Naturally occurring spinel can contain varying quantities of Mn, an element which occurs terrestrially and extra-terrestrially as Mn2+, Mn3+, Mn4+ and Mn5+. However, a lack of information on the effects of oxygen fugacity ($f_{{\rm O}_{\rm 2}}$) on: (1) Mn valence state and cation distribution; and (2) on spinel-melt partitioning means that the potential for a Mn-in-spinel oxy-barometer remains largely untested. Here, we use electron probe microanalysis, micro-focus X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES) spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD) to investigate cation distribution and valence state in spinels in the Al–Mn–O and Fe–Mn–O systems synthesized at ambient pressure under varying $\hskip 2pt f_{{\rm O}_{\rm 2}}$ conditions. In contrast to previous studies, we find that the spectral resolution of the Mn K-edge XANES spectra is insufficient to provide quantitative data on Mn valence state and site occupancy, although it does verify that Mn is incorporated as both Mn2+ and Mn3+, distributed over tetrahedral and octahedral sites. Combination of data from XANES and SC-XRD refinements can, however, be used to model Mn, Al and Fe valence and site occupancy. It would be expected that Mn–Fe spinels have the potential to record $f_{{\rm O}_{\rm 2}}$ conditions in parental melts due to changes to the octahedral site under conditions that were more reducing. However, decoupling the effects of temperature and oxygen fugacity on the TFe3+–TMn2+ exchange in the Mn–Fe spinels remains challenging. In contrast, little variation is noted in Mn–Al spinels as a function of $\hskip 2pt f_{{\rm O}_{\rm 2}}$, implying that crystal chemistry and cation site geometry may significantly influence cation distribution, and by inference, crystal-melt partitioning, in spinel-group minerals.
Belousovite, KZn(SO4)Cl, a new sulfate mineral from the Tolbachik volcano with apophyllite sheet-topology.
Authors: Siidra Oleg I. , Nazarchuk Evgeny V. , Lukina Evgeniya A. , Zaitsev Anatoly N. , Shilovskikh Vladimir V.
Published: May 2018

Belousovite, ideally KZn(SO4)Cl, was found in a Yadovitaya fumarole of the Second scoria cone of the North Breach of the Great Tolbachik Fissure Eruption (1975–1976), Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. Belousovite occurs as irregularly-shaped grains and in the form of microcrystalline masses associated with kamchatkite, langbeinite, euchlorine, anglesite and zincite. Belousovite is monoclinic,P21/c,a= 6.8904(5),b= 9.6115(7),c= 8.2144(6) Å, β = 96.582(2),V= 540.43(7) Å3andZ= 4 (from single-crystal diffraction data). The eight strongest lines of the powder X-ray diffraction pattern are [dmeasÅ(I)(hkl)]: 6.8451(100)(100), (3.6401)(71)($\bar{1}$21), (3.1592)(84)(1$\bar{1}$2), (3.1218)(41)($\bar{2}$11), (3.1140)(52)(022), (2.9812)(41)(031), (2.9121)(44)(130) and (2.0483)(19)($\bar{3}$12). The chemical composition determined by the electron-microprobe analysis is (wt.%): K2O 19.55, Rb2O 0.58, ZnO 34.85, SO334.65, Cl 14.77, –O = Cl23.34, total 101.06. The empirical formula based on O + Cl = 5 apfu is K0.97Rb0.01Zn1.00S1.01O4.03Cl0.97. The simplified formula is KZn(SO4)Cl. The crystal structure was solved by direct methods and refined toR1= 0.029 on the basis of 1965 independent observed reflections. The structure of belousovite consists of infinite [ZnSO4Cl]–layers and K+ions. [ZnSO4Cl]–layers are formed by corner sharing mixed-ligand ZnO3Cl tetrahedra and SO4tetrahedra. The topology of [ZnSO4Cl]–layers in belousovite is identical to [Si4O10]4–layers in the minerals of the apophyllite group. A review of mixed-ligand ZnOmClncoordination polyhedra in minerals and inorganic compounds is given.
Itelmenite, Na2CuMg2(SO4)4, a new anhydrous sulfate mineral from the Tolbachik volcano
Authors: Nazarchuk Evgeny V. , Siidra Oleg I. , Agakhanov Atali A. , Lukina Evgeniya A. , Avdontseva Evgeniya Y. , Karpov Gennady A.
Published: May 2018

Itelmenite, ideally Na2CuMg2(SO4)4, was found in a fumarole of the Naboko scoria cone of the Tolbachik volcano Fissure Eruption (2012–2013), Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. Itelmenite occurs as irregularly shaped grains as well as microcrystalline masses associated with anhydrite, saranchinaite, hermannjahnite, euchlorine, thénardite, aphthitalite and hematite. Itelmenite is orthorhombic, Pbca, a = 9.568(2) Å, b = 8.790(2) Å, c = 28.715(8) Å, V = 2415.0(11) Å3 and Z = 4 (from single-crystal diffraction data). The nine strongest lines of the powder X-ray diffraction pattern are [d(I)(hkl)]: 7.9614(41)(102), 7.1803(32)(004), 5.9122(64)(112), 3.8455(87)(122), 3.6292(52)(214), 3.3931(62)(215), 3.0003(44)(027), 2.9388(100)(312) and 2.4975(56)(230). The chemical composition determined by the electron-microprobe analysis is (wt.%): Na2O 10.77, K2O 0.20, MgO 11.10, CuO 15.38, ZnO 5.61, SO3 56.42, total 99.48. The empirical formula based on O = 32 apfu is (Na3.93K0.05)Σ3.98Mg3.12(Cu2.19Zn0.78)Σ2.97S7.97O32. The simplified formula is Na2CuMg2(SO4)4 taking into account structural data. The crystal structure was solved by direct methods and refined to an agreement index R1 = 0.034 on the basis of 1855 independent observed reflections. The structure of itelmenite is based on a unique type of [A2+3(SO4)4]2– (A = Mg, Cu and Zn) heteropolyhedral framework with voids filled by Na+ cations.
Redcanyonite, (NH4)2Mn[(UO2)4O4(SO4)2](H2O)4, a new zippeite-group mineral from the Blue Lizard mine, San Juan County, Utah, USA
Authors: Olds Travis A. , Plášil Jakub , Kampf Anthony R. , Burns Peter C. , Nash Barbara P. , Marty Joe , Rose Timothy P. , Carlson Shawn M.
Published: May 2018

Redcanyonite (IMA2016-082), (NH4)2Mn[(UO2)4O4(SO4)2](H2O)4, occurs underground in the Blue Lizard mine, Red Canyon, White Canyon district, San Juan County, Utah, USA. It occurs with natrozippeite, brochantite, devilline, posnjakite, johannite, gypsum, bobcookite, pickeringite, pentahydrite and the NH4-analogue of zippeite: ammoniozippeite. Redcanyonite occurs as radial aggregates of red–orange needles and blades individually reaching up to 0.2 mm long, with aggregates measuring up to 1 mm in diameter. Crystals are flattened on {010} and elongated along [100], exhibit perfect cleavage on {010}, and exhibit the forms {010}, {001}, {101} and {10$\bar{1}$}. Twinning is ubiquitous, by 180° rotation on [100]. Redcanyonite is translucent with a pale orange streak, is non-fluorescent, has a Mohs hardness of 2, and has brittle tenacity with uneven fracture. Optically, redcanyonite is biaxial (+), α = 1.725(3), β = 1.755(3), γ = 1.850(5) (white light); 2V (meas.) = 60(2)°, 2V (calc.) = 61.3°; and dispersion isr<v, very strong. Pleochroism is:X= orange,Y= yellow andZ= orange;Y<<X<Z. The optical orientation isX=b,Y≈c*,Z≈a. The empirical formula is (NH4)2.02(Mn0.49Cu0.09Zn0.06)Σ0.64H+0.72[(UO2)4O4(S0.99P0.01O4)2](H2O)4, based on 4 U and 24 O apfu. Redcanyonite is monoclinic,C2/m,a= 8.6572(17),b= 14.155(3),c= 8.8430(19) Å, β = 104.117(18)°,V= 1050.9(4) Å3andZ= 2. The structure was refined toR1= 0.0382 for 1079 reflections withIobs> 3σI. Uranyl oxo-sulfate sheets in redcanyonite adopt the well-known zippeite topology, which consists of zigzag chains of uranyl pentagonal bipyramids linked by sulfate tetrahedra to form sheets. The sheets are linked to each other through bonds to interlayer NH4+groups and octahedrally coordinated Mn2+, and by hydrogen bonds from H2O groups. Redcanyonite is named for Red Canyon in southeast Utah, USA.
Russoite, NH4ClAs23+O3(H2O)0.5, a new phylloarsenite mineral from Solfatara Di Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy
Authors: Campostrini Italo , Demartin Francesco , Scavini Marco
Published: May 2018

The new mineral russoite (IMA2015-105), NH4ClAs23+O3(H2O)0.5, was found at the Solfatara di Pozzuoli, Pozzuoli, Napoli, Italy, as a fumarolic phase associated with alacránite, dimorphite, realgar, mascagnite, salammoniac and an amorphous arsenic sulfide. It occurs as hexagonal plates up to ~300 µm in diameter and 15 µm thick, in rosette-like intergrowths. On the basis of powder X-ray diffraction measurements and chemical analysis, the mineral was recognised to be identical to the corresponding synthetic phase NH4ClAs2O3(H2O)0.5. Crystals are transparent and colourless, with vitreous lustre and white streak. Tenacity is brittle and fracture is irregular. Cleavage is perfect on {001}. The measured density is 2.89(1) g/cm3; the calculated density is 2.911 g/cm3. The empirical formula, (based on 4.5 anions per formula unit) is [(NH4)0.94,K0.06]Σ1.00(Cl0.91,Br0.01)Σ0.92As2.02O3(H2O)0.5. Russoite is hexagonal, space group P622, with a = 5.2411(7), c = 12.5948(25) Å, V = 299.62(8) Å3 and Z = 2. The eight strongest X-ray powder diffraction lines are [dobs Å(I)(hkl)]: 12.63(19)(001), 6.32(100)(002), 4.547(75)(100), 4.218(47)(003), 3.094(45)(103), 2.627(46)(110), 2.428(31)(112) and 1.820(28)(115). The structure, was refined to R = 0.0518 for 311 reflections with I > 2σ(I) and shows a different location of the ammonium cation and water molecules with respect to that reported for the synthetic analogue. The mineral belongs to a small group of phylloarsenite minerals (lucabindiite, torrecillasite and gajardoite). It contains electrically neutral As2O3 layers, topologically identical to those found in lucabindiite and gajardoite between which are ammonium cations and outside of which Cl– anions. Water molecules and additional ammonium cations are located in a layer between two levels of chloride anions.
Staročeskéite, Ag0.70Pb1.60(Bi1.35Sb1.35)Σ2.70S6, from Kutná Hora, Czech Republic, a new member of the lillianite homologous series
Authors: Pažout Richard , Sejkora Jiří
Published: May 2018

A new mineral species, staročeskéite, ideally Ag0.70Pb1.60(Bi1.35Sb1.35)Σ2.70S6, has been found at Kutná Hora ore district, Czech Republic. The mineral occurs in the late-stage Bi-mineralization associated with other lillianite homologues (gustavite, terrywallaceite, vikingite, treasurite, eskimoite and Bi-rich andorite-group minerals) and other bismuth sulfosalts (izoklakeite, cosalite and Bi-rich jamesonite) in quartz gangue. The mineral occurs as lath shaped crystals or anhedral grains up to 80 µm × 70 µm, growing together in aggregates up to 200 µm × 150 µm across. Staročeskéite is steel-grey in colour and has a metallic lustre, the calculated density is 6.185 g/cm3. In reflected light staročeskéite is greyish white; bireflectance and pleochroism are weak with greyish tints. Anisotropy is weak to medium with grey to bluish grey rotation tints. Internal reflections were not observed. The empirical formula based on electron probe microanalyses and calculated on 11 apfu is: (Ag0.68Cu0.01)Σ0.69(Pb1.56Fe0.01Cd0.01)Σ1.58(Bi1.32Sb1.37)Σ2.69(S6.04Se0.01)Σ6.05. The ideal formula is Ag0.70Pb1.60(Bi1.35Sb1.35)Σ2.70S6, which requires Ag 7.22, Pb 31.70, Bi 26.97, Sb 15.72 and S 18.39 wt.%, total 100.00 wt.%. Staročeskéite is a member of the lillianite homologous series withN= 4. Unlike gustavite and terrywallaceite, staročeskéite, similarly to lillianite, is orthorhombic, space groupCmcm, witha= 4.2539(8),b= 13.3094(8),c= 19.625(1) Å,V= 1111.1(2) Å3andZ= 4. The structure of staročeskéite contains four sulfur sites and three metal sites: one pure Pb site and two mixed sites,M1 (0.52Bi + 0.356Ag + 0.124Sb) andM2 (0.601Sb + 0.259Pb + 0.14Bi). The mineral is characterized by the Bi:Sb ratio 1:1 (Bi/(Bi + Sb) = 0.50) and the Ag++ Bi3+, Sb3+↔ 2 Pb2+substitution (L%) equal to 70%. Thus the mineral lies between two series of the lillianite structures withN= 4, between the lillianite–gustavite series and the andorite series.
Understanding patients' perceptions of asthma control: a qualitative study
Authors: Bidad Natalie , Barnes Neil , Griffiths Chris , Horne Rob
Published: May 2018

Asthma control is suboptimal for many sufferers despite the existence of effective treatments. Patients' self-management is influenced by their perceptions of asthma and its treatment. This study explored sufferers' perceptions of asthma control and their influence on self-management behaviours.

Participants (n=42) recruited from primary and secondary care asthma clinics in London in the UK each underwent a qualitative interview exploring perceptions and experiences of asthma control. Purposive sampling ensured variation in disease severity, degree of asthma control, age and socioeconomic status. Grounded theory was employed in thematic analysis of transcribed interviews.

Five themes relating to perceptions of asthma control and self-management were identified: personal meaning of control, intermittent prevention, compromising control to avoid medication, pharmacological agents overemphasised in control and the role of asthma review in control. Within the first theme, some participants had an internal barometer of the level of symptoms that indicated their asthma was getting “out of control” that was set much higher than Asthma Control Test criteria.

The findings provide new insights into patients’ perceptions of asthma control. Symptoms indicative of poor control were often tolerated as part of living with asthma. Identification of barriers and drivers to self-management highlight potential targets for strategies aimed at optimising asthma management.
Risk factors for lung disease progression in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: van Horck Marieke , van de Kant Kim , Winkens Bjorn , Wesseling Geertjan , Gulmans Vincent , Hendriks Han , van der Grinten Chris , Jöbsis Quirijn , Dompeling Edward
Published: May 2018

To identify potential risk factors for lung disease progression in children with cystic fibrosis (CF), we studied the longitudinal data of all children with CF (aged ≥5 years) registered in the Dutch CF Registry (2009–2014).

Lung disease progression was expressed as a decline in lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) % pred) and pulmonary exacerbation rate. Potential risk factors at baseline included sex, age, best FEV1% pred, best forced vital capacity % pred, genotype, body mass index z-score, pancreatic insufficiency, medication use (proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), prophylactic antibiotics and inhaled corticosteroids), CF-related diabetes, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and colonisation withPseudomonas aeruginosa.

The data of 545 children were analysed. PPI use was associated with both annual decline of FEV1% pred (p=0.017) and future pulmonary exacerbation rate (p=0.006). Moreover, lower FEV1% pred at baseline (p=0.007), prophylactic inhaled antibiotic use (p=0.006) and pulmonary exacerbations in the baseline year (p=0.002) were related to pulmonary exacerbations in subsequent years.

In a cohort of Dutch children with CF followed for 5 years, we were able to identify several risk factors for future exacerbations. In particular, the association between PPI use and lung disease progression definitely requires further investigation.
Handgrip strength in end stage of renal disease—a narrative review
Authors: Oliveira Mariana Cassani , Bufarah Marina Nogueira Berbel , Balbi André Luís
Published: May 2018

Background

Handgrip strength (HS) measures have been associated with nutritional status, morbidity, and mortality in end stage of renal disease (ESRD).

Objective

We aimed to present and discuss the HS method in ESRD patients, by reviewing published studies on the subject.

Methods

PUBMED, MEDLINE, and LILACS databases were consulted, with no filters regarding the date of publication or age of population.

Results

The terms “handgrip strength,” “end stage of renal disease,” and “nutrition status” were used, and 32 articles with publication dates from 1983 to 2017 were included. Handgrip strength is considered a simple and rapid method of assessing muscle function in chronic kidney disease and is an important predictor of nutritional status depletion, development of comorbidities, and early mortality.

Conclusion

There is a lack of studies that analyzed associations between HS and clinical and nutritional outcomes in ESRD. The establishment of HS protocols and reference values in ESRD are necessary, to assist preventive measures of unfavorable outcomes in this population.
Clinical Application of Circulating Tumor Cells and Circulating Tumor DNA in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Beasley Aaron , Isaacs Timothy , Khattak Muhammad A. , Freeman James B. , Allcock Richard , Chen Fred K. , Pereira Michelle R. , Yau Kyle , Bentel Jaqueline , Vermeulen Tersia , Calapre Leslie , Millward Michael , Ziman Melanie R. , Gray Elin S.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of using circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for the management of uveal melanoma (UM).

Patients and Methods

Low-coverage whole-genome sequencing was used to determine somatic chromosomal copy number alterations (SCNAs) in primary UM tumors, ctDNA, and whole-genome amplified CTCs. CTCs were immunocaptured using an antimelanoma-associated chondroitin sulfate antibody conjugated to magnetic beads and immunostained for melanoma antigen recognised by T cells 1 (MART1)/glycoprotein 100 (gp100)/S100 calcium-binding protein β (S100β). ctDNA was quantified using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction assay for mutations in the GNAQ, GNA11, PLCβ4, and CYSLTR2 genes.

Results

SCNA analysis of CTCs and ctDNA isolated from a patient with metastatic UM showed good concordance with the enucleated primary tumor. In a cohort of 30 patients with primary UM, CTCs were detected in 58% of patients (one to 37 CTCs per 8 mL of blood), whereas only 26% of patients had detectable ctDNA (1.6 to 29 copies/mL). The presence of CTCs or ctDNA was not associated with tumor size or other prognostic markers. However, the frequent detection of CTCs in patients with early-stage UM supports a model in which CTCs can be used to derive tumor-specific SCNA relevant for prognosis. Monitoring of ctDNA after treatment of the primary tumor allowed detection of metastatic disease earlier than 18F-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in two patients.

Conclusion

The presence of CTCs in localized UM can be used to ascertain prognostic SCNA, whereas ctDNA can be used to monitor patients for early signs of metastatic disease. This study paves the way for the analysis of CTCs and ctDNA as a liquid biopsy that will assist with treatment decisions in patients with UM.