bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reading Pinyin activates character orthography for highly experienced learners of Chinese
Authors: CHEN LIN , PERFETTI CHARLES A. , LENG YING
Published: December 2017

Does reading Pinyin, a Roman alphabet transcription of Chinese, cause the implicit activation of the corresponding Chinese character? To address this question, we carried out two experiments with adult Chinese learners, measuring interference in character reading in a modified Stroop task. Participants first made a meaning judgment on a Pinyin word, and then judged the printed color of a character that was either visually related or unrelated to the character that corresponded to the Pinyin word. A character orthographic interference effect was observed for advanced Chinese learners but not intermediate Chinese learners. The proficiency-dependent emergence of this interference effect suggests its dependence on Chinese character reading experience. For models of Chinese reading, the results demonstrate the role of the character as a gateway to meaning that, through reading experience, comes to be routinely involved in reading for meaning, whether the input is a character or an alphabetic spelling.
The effects of script variation, literacy skills, and immersion experience on executive attention: A comparison of matched monoscriptal and biscriptal bilinguals
Authors: YANG SUJIN , YANG HWAJIN , HARTANTO ANDREE
Published: December 2017

To examine script effects, monoscriptal Spanish–English (SE) bilinguals, who use two similar Roman alphabetic systems, were compared to biscriptal Chinese–English (CE) bilinguals, who use logographs and Roman alphabets. On the Attention Network Test, script effects were most evident in global processing efficiency (i.e., inverse efficiency and reaction time) and in the local network of executive control in favor of biscriptal CE bilinguals over matched monoscriptal SE counterparts. Literacy effects were found on the executive control network among Chinese–English bilinguals of high L1-literacy skills over their script- and immersion-matched counterparts, who varied only in low L1 literacy. In a similar vein, results of the multiple regression analysis demonstrated that script and literacy are significant predictors of executive control capacities. Our results suggest that script variation in a bilingual's language pair is an important modulating factor that enhances overall attention efficiency.
Incidental finding of an absent left common carotid artery
Authors: Noflatscher Maria , Luger Anna Katharina , Frank Renate , Glodny Bernhard , Gruber Johann , Marschang Peter
Published: December 2017

Abstract. We describe a case of a young woman evaluated for Raynaud’s phenomenon in whom an extremely rare variation, the absence of the left common carotid artery, was incidentally detected as an isolated finding. The detection of vascular anomalies may be important for future endovascular or surgical interventions.
Developing a Sequential Process Model of Coaching
Authors: Zimmermann Lisa , Antoni Conny H.
Published: December 2017

Abstract. Coaching research has to keep pace with the rapidly developing coaching practice. In order to strengthen theoretical and empirical knowledge, it is necessary to examine the efficacy of coaching, but even more important to develop a model of the underlying processes. By gaining a deeper insight into the coaching process and its causal mechanisms, knowledge can be generated that will enhance the efficiency of coaching in the future. In this paper, a new process model is developed, which draws on insights and methodological tools from psychotherapy research that are then applied to the coaching process. This model expands on existing process models by making new assumptions about concrete independent and intervening variables that influence coaching outcomes, and about the specific causal paths linking these variables. Special emphasis is placed on crucial variables that can play an important role in the improvement of coaching processes and in the prevention of negative coaching effects. In the second part of the paper, research on coaching is related to and integrated into the model. Finally, possible limitations of the model and present recommendations for future research are discussed.
The Role of Representation Strength of the Prime in Subliminal	Visuomotor Priming
Authors: Wang Yongchun , Wang Yonghui , Liu Peng , Di Meilin , Gong Yanyan , Tan Mengge
Published: December 2017

Abstract. This study investigated the role of representation strength of the prime in subliminal visuomotor priming in two experiments. Prime/target compatibility (compatible and incompatible) and preposed object type (jumbled lines, strong masking; and rectangular outlines, weak masking) were manipulated in Experiment 1. A significant negative compatibility effect (NCE) was observed in the rectangle condition, whereas no compatibility effect was found in the line condition. However, when a new variable, prime duration, was introduced in Experiment 2, the NCE was reversed with an increase in the prime duration in the rectangle condition, whereas the NCE was maintained in the line condition. This result is consistent with the claim that increasing the prime duration causes the prime representation to be too strong for inhibition in the rectangle condition but strong enough to reliably trigger inhibition in the line condition. The findings demonstrated that prime representation has a causal role in subliminal visuomotor priming.
The Role of Visual Distractors in the Simon Effect
Authors: Lugli Luisa , D’Ascenzo Stefania , Nicoletti Roberto , Umiltà Carlo
Published: December 2017

Abstract. The Simon effect lies on the automatic generation of a stimulus spatial code, which, however, is not relevant for performing the task. Results typically show faster performance when stimulus and response locations correspond, rather than when they do not. Considering reaction time distributions, two types of Simon effect have been individuated, which are thought to depend on different mechanisms: visuomotor activation versus cognitive translation of spatial codes. The present study aimed to investigate whether the presence of a distractor, which affects the allocation of attentional resources and, thus, the time needed to generate the spatial code, changes the nature of the Simon effect. In four experiments, we manipulated the presence and the characteristics of the distractor. Findings extend previous evidence regarding the distinction between visuomotor activation and cognitive translation of spatial stimulus codes in a Simon task. They are discussed with reference to the attentional model of the Simon effect.
Exploring Methane Gas Seepage in the California Borderlands
Authors: Yanchilina Anastasia , Yelisetti Subbarao , Wolfson-Schwehr Monica , Voss Nicholas , Kelly Thomas , Brizzolara Jennifer , Brown Kristin , Zayac John , Fung Megan , Guerra Melania , Coakley Bernard , Pockalny Robert
Published: December 2017

Early-career scientists aboard the 2016 UNOLS Chief Scientist Training Cruise explored recently reactivated underwater methane seeps in the San Diego Trough.
Dentists’ opinions on knowledge, attitudes and barriers in providing oral health care to older people living independently in the Netherlands and Flanders (Belgium)
Authors: Bots-VantSpijker P C , Bruers J J M , Bots C P , De Visschere L M J , Schols J M G A
Published: December 2017

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate how dentists in the Netherlands and Flanders assessed their knowledge on oral health care to older people, what their attitude was and what barriers they experienced in rendering care to older people.

Methods:

The survey data was collected from a random sample of Dutch and Flemish dentists. Five hundred ninety-five dentists (37%) of the Dutch sample and 494 dentists of the Flemish sample (41%) completed the online questionnaire. Dentists were asked to respond to 15 Likert type items, representing opinions on provision of oral health care to older people and to give information about the number of older patients treated and about some profession-specific and personal characteristics.

Results:

The average number of patients treated per week was nearly twice as high in the Netherlands as in Flanders. Nevertheless, differences of opinions between dentists in the Netherlands and Flanders were relatively limited.

Conclusions:

This survey shows that in particular the actual number of older patients treated appears to be related with differences of opinions between Dutch and Flemish dentists about oral health care provided to (vulnerable) older people who live at home.
Detection of de novo single nucleotide variants in offspring of atomic-bomb survivors close to the hypocenter by whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Horai Makiko , Mishima Hiroyuki , Hayashida Chisa , Kinoshita Akira , Nakane Yoshibumi , Matsuo Tatsuki , Tsuruda Kazuto , Yanagihara Katsunori , Sato Shinya , Imanishi Daisuke , Imaizumi Yoshitaka , Hata Tomoko , Miyazaki Yasushi , Yoshiura Koh-ichiro
Published: December 2017

Ionizing radiation released by the atomic bombs at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, in 1945 caused many long-term illnesses, including increased risks of malignancies such as leukemia and solid tumours. Radiation has demonstrated genetic effects in animal models, leading to concerns over the potential hereditary effects of atomic bomb-related radiation. However, no direct analyses of whole DNA have yet been reported. We therefore investigated de novo variants in offspring of atomic-bomb survivors by whole-genome sequencing (WGS). We collected peripheral blood from three trios, each comprising a father (atomic-bomb survivor with acute radiation symptoms), a non-exposed mother, and their child, none of whom had any past history of haematological disorders. One trio of non-exposed individuals was included as a control. DNA was extracted and the numbers of de novo single nucleotide variants in the children were counted by WGS with sequencing confirmation. Gross structural variants were also analysed. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the study. There were 62, 81, and 42 de novo single nucleotide variants in the children of atomic-bomb survivors, compared with 48 in the control trio. There were no gross structural variants in any trio. These findings are in accord with previously published results that also showed no significant genetic effects of atomic-bomb radiation on second-generation survivors.
Functional characterization of a novel somatic oncogenic mutation of PIK3CB
Authors: Whale Andrew D , Colman Lucy , Lensun Letitia , Rogers Helen L , Shuttleworth Stephen J
Published: December 2017

Class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) enzymes have attracted considerable attention as drug targets in cancer therapy over the last 20 years. The signaling pathway triggered by class I PI3Ks is dysregulated in a range of tumor types, impacting cell proliferation, survival and apoptosis. Frequent oncogenic mutations of PIK3CA have previously been discovered. In contrast, reports of PIK3CB mutations have been limited; however, in most cases, those that have been identified have been shown to be activating and oncogenic. The functional characterization of a PIK3CB catalytic domain mutant, p110βE1051K, first discovered by others in castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), is outlined in this report; our data suggest that p110βE1051K is a gain-of-function mutation, driving PI3K signaling, tumorigenic cell growth and migration. Tumor cells expressing p110βE1051K are sensitive to p110β inhibition; its characterization as an oncogenic driver adds to the rationale for targeting p110β and indicates a continuing need to further develop specific PI3K inhibitors for clinical development in cancer therapy.
Correction: Corrigendum: Kinetic ways of tailoring phases in high entropy alloys
Authors: He Feng , Wang Zhijun , Li Yiyan , Wu Qingfeng , Li Junjie , Wang Jincheng , Liu C. T.
Published: December 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 34628; published online: 30 September 2016; updated: 22 December 2017. This Article contains an error in the Experimental section. “Elements of Co, Cr, Fe, Ni and Nb with purity of 99.95% were used as raw materials”. should read: “Elements of Co, Cr, Fe, Ni and Ti with purity of 99.
Correction: Corrigendum: Superstatistical model of bacterial DNA architecture
Authors: Bogachev Mikhail I. , Markelov Oleg A. , Kayumov Airat R. , Bunde Armin
Published: December 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 43034; published online: 22 February 2017; updated: 22 December 2017. This Article contains errors. An improper normalization factor was inadvertently applied, resulting in an incorrect form of Eq. (4). In the Introduction section, “In this setting, according tothe law of total probability, the macroscopic energy distribution is then given by where P(β) is the distribution of β over all local cells in the macroscopic system and Z(β) is a normalization factor for e−βE at specified β 41.
Correction: Corrigendum: Development and validation of a prognostic model for predicting 30-day mortality risk in medical patients in emergency department (ED)
Authors: Ha Duc T. , Dang Tam Q. , Tran Ngoc V. , Pham Thao N. T. , Nguyen Nguyen D. , Nguyen Tuan V.
Published: December 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 46474; published online: 12 April 2017; updated: 22 December 2017. This Article contains errors in Figure 3 where the authors calculated the probability of survival instead of the probability of mortality. The correct Figure 3 appears below as Figure 1.
Correction: Corrigendum: Soil warming enhances the hidden shift of elemental stoichiometry by elevated CO2 in wheat
Authors: Li Xiangnan , Jiang Dong , Liu Fulai
Published: December 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 23313; published online: 22 March 2016; updated: 22 December 2017. The authors neglected to cite two previous studies related to the effect of elevated CO2 on minerals. These additional references are listed below as references 1 and 2, and should appear in the text as below.
Correction: Corrigendum: Drosophila Dullard functions as a Mad phosphatase to terminate BMP signaling
Authors: Urrutia Hugo , Aleman Abigail , Eivers Edward
Published: December 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 32269; published online: 31 August 2016; updated: 22 December 2017. This Article contains errors in Figure 4, where the blot for pMadS212 in panel 4c was unintentionally swapped with the pMadCter blot from panel 4d. In addition, Figure S2 in the original versionof the Supplementary Information was incorrect, where the blots for Flag-Mad-AVA were unintentionally swapped between panels S2c and S2d.
Micrometer-sized dihydrogenphosphate-intercalated layered double hydroxides: synthesis, selective infrared absorption properties, and applications as agricultural films
Authors: Guo Yixuan , Wang Jing , Li Dianqing , Tang Pinggui , Leroux Fabrice , Feng Yongjun
Published: December 2017

Controllable synthesis and selective IR absorption properties of micrometer-sized H2PO4-LDHs were investigated in details as well as the structure-performance relationship.
Bi and trinuclear complexes in palladium carboxylate-assisted C–H activation reactions
Authors: Váňa Jiří , Hanusek Jiří , Sedlák Miloš
Published: December 2017

The role of polynuclear species in C–H activations assisted by palladium carboxylates has not been clear so far.
A chemical redox reaction to generate rock salt-type materials: the case of Na3V2O5
Authors: Adamczyk E. , Anger E. , Freire M. , Pralong V.
Published: December 2017

Chemical redox reactions are extremely efficient to prepare fully reduced or oxidized phases that are formed during the topotactic insertion/extraction of alkaline ions. Moreover, these phases show new ordered or disordered Rock Salt type structures.
Continuum models for directed self-assembly
Authors: Müller Marcus , Orozco Rey Juan Carlos
Published: December 2017

The computational description of directed self-assembly (DSA) of copolymer materials requires the prediction of large-scale structure formation of copolymer materials guided by chemical or topographical patterns. Continuum models provide the highest level of coarse-graining describing the system only by the local composition and allowing for a fast optimization of thermodynamic quantities.
Mechanism of prostaglandin E2-induced transcriptional up-regulation of Oncostatin-M by CREB and Sp1
Authors: Mukherjee Srimoyee , Sengupta Bandyopadhyay Sumita
Published: December 2017

Oncostatin-M (OSM) is a pleotropic cytokine belonging to the interleukin-6 family. Differential expression of OSM in response to varying stimuli and exhibiting repertoire of functions in different cells renders it challenging to study the mechanism of its expression. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) transcriptionally increased osm levels. In silico studies of ∼1 kb upstream of osm promoter region yielded the presence of CRE (cyclic AMP response element)-like sites at the distal end (CREosm). Deletion and point mutation of CREosm clearly indicated that this region imparted an important role in PGE2-mediated transcription. Nuclear protein(s) from PGE2-treated U937 cells, bound to this region, was identified as CRE-binding protein (CREB). CREB was phosphorylated on treatment and was found to be directly associated with CREosm. The presence of cofactors p300 and CREB-binding protein in the complex was confirmed. A marked decrease in CREB phosphorylation, binding and transcriptional inhibition on treatment with PKA (protein kinase A) inhibitor, H89 (N-[2-[[3-(4-bromophenyl)-2-propenyl]amino]ethyl]-5-soquinolinesulfonamide), revealed the role of phosphorylated CREB in osm transcription. Additionally, other nuclear protein(s) were specifically associated with the proximal GC region (GCosm) post PGE2 treatment, later confirmed to be specificity protein 1 (Sp1). Interestingly, Sp1 bound to the proximal osm promoter was found to be associated with phospho-CREB–p300 complex bound to the distal osm promoter. Knockdown of Sp1 abrogated the expression and functionality of OSM. Thus, the present study conclusively proves that these transcription factors, bound at the distal and proximal promoter elements are found to associate with each other in a DNA-dependent manner and both are responsible for the PGE2-mediated transcriptional up-regulation of Oncostatin-M.
Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Merrick Catherine J.
Published: December 2017

Plasmodium falciparum is a protozoan parasite that causes the most severe form of human malaria. Five other Plasmodium species can also infect humans — P. vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale curtisi, P. ovale wallikeri and P. knowlesi — but P. falciparum is the most prevalent Plasmodium species in the African region, where 90% of all malaria occurs, and it is this species that causes the great majority of malaria deaths. These were reported by the WHO at 438 000 in 2015 from an estimated 214 million cases; importantly, however, figures for the global burden of malaria tend to have wide margins of error due to poor and inaccurate reporting. In this Perspective, features of P. falciparum that are unique among human malaria parasites are highlighted, and current issues surrounding the control and treatment of this major human pathogen are discussed.
A whole parasite transmission-blocking vaccine for malaria: an ignored strategy
Authors: Good Michael F. , Yanow Stephanie K.
Published: December 2017

Malaria vaccine approaches can be divided into ‘subunit’ and ‘whole parasite’, and these can be directed at the sporozoite, liver stage, asexual or sexual stages. All combinations of approach and stage are under development with the exception of a whole parasite sexual stage (gametocyte) vaccine. A gametocyte vaccine would aim primarily to block transmission of malaria from the human host to the mosquito vector and as such is referred to as a ‘transmission-blocking vaccine’. An immunological feature of whole parasite vaccines for the sporozoite/liver stage and for the asexual blood stage is the reliance on cellular immunity involving T-cells to control parasite growth. T-cells can also respond vigorously to gametocytes and kill them in the vertebrate host and/or arrest their development. To date, cellular immunity has not been exploited in transmission-blocking vaccine development. Here, the data supporting a gametocyte whole parasite vaccine are reviewed and a strategy for vaccine development and testing is outlined.
Fixed‐time group consensus for multi‐agent systems with non‐linear dynamics and uncertainties
Authors: Shang Yilun
Published: December 2017

In this study, the author studies fixed‐time group consensus problem in networks of dynamic agents with intrinsic non‐linear dynamics and bounded uncertainties. Three types of distributed control protocols are proposed to achieve fixed‐time group consensus when the subgroups are connected and have inter‐group common influence. By using Lyapunov theory, algebraic graph theory, and fixed‐time stability, some conditions are derived to select the controller gains to ensure the convergence in a prescribed time regardless of the initial conditions. Numerical examples are worked out to illustrate the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
The jets of AGN as giant coaxial cables
Authors: Gabuzda Denise C. , Nagle Matt , Roche Naomi
Published: December 2017

Context. The currents carried by the jets of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) can be probed using maps of the Faraday rotation measure (RM), since a jet current will be accompanied by a toroidal magnetic field, which will give rise to a systematic change in the RM across the jet.

Aims. The aim of this study is to identify new AGNs displaying statistically significant transverse RM gradients across their parsec-scale jets, in order to determine how often helical magnetic fields occur in AGN jets, and to look for overall patterns in the implied directions for the toroidal field components and jet currents.

Methods. We have carried out new analyses of Faraday RM maps derived from previously published 8.1, 8.4, 12.1 and 15.3 GHz data obtained in 2006 on the NRAO Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). In a number of key ways, our procedures were identical to those of the original authors, but the new imaging and analysis differs from the original methods in several ways: the technique used to match the resolutions at the different frequencies, limits on the widths spanned by the RM gradients analyzed, treatment of core-region RM gradients, approach to estimation of the significances of the gradients analyzed, and inclusion of a supplementary analysis using circular beams with areas equal to those of the corresponding elliptical naturally weighted beams.

Results. This new analysis has substantially increased the number of AGNs known to display transverse RM gradients that may reflect the presence of a toroidal magnetic-field component. The collected data on parsec and kiloparsec scales indicate that the current typically flows inward along the jet axis and outward in a more extended region surrounding the jet, typical to the current structure of a co-axial cable, accompanied by a self-consistent system of nested helical magnetic fields, whose toroidal components give rise to the observed transverse Faraday rotation gradients.

Conclusions. The new results presented here make it possible for the first time to conclusively demonstrate the existence of a preferred direction for the toroidal magnetic-field components – and therefore of the currents – of AGN jets. Discerning the origin of this current-field system is of cardinal importance for understanding the physical mechanisms leading to the formation of the intrinsic jet magnetic field, which likely plays an important role in the propagation and collimation of the jets; one possibility is the action of a “cosmic battery”.
Klinik Unternehmen: Auf-/Absteiger des Monats
Authors: Schmidt Hartmut
Published: December 2017

Börsenexperte Hartmut Schmidt analysiert für kma die Jahresabschlüsse ausgewählter Kliniken
Sprechstunde in der PR-Ambulanz - Was soll ich tun, wenn mich ein Journalist anruft?
Authors: Endele Kerstin
Published: December 2017

Kerstin Endele ist zur Hälfte Journalistin und zur Hälfte Biochemikerin. Seit mehr als 15 Jahren ist sie Expertin für Gesundheitskommunikation und war fünf Jahre Kommunikationschefin und Pressesprecherin der Charité. Wenn sie nicht Klinikvorstände aus Krisen rettet und Pressesprechern diverser Krankenhäuser dabei hilft, ein bisschen Strategie ins übliche Chaos zu bringen, betreibt sie mit der PR-Ambulanz (www.pr-ambulanz.com) einen der größten Blogs zur Klinikkommunikation in Deutschland.
Sex Matters in Neuroinfectious Diseases
Authors: Chow Felicia
Published: December 2017

Although sex and gender have a major impact on the susceptibility and immunologic response to infectious diseases, these factors are often neglected. Identifying the mechanisms underlying sex-based differences in infectious diseases will facilitate the rational design and implementation of preventive and therapeutic strategies that reduce risk and improve outcomes for women and men. In this article, we discuss two examples in neuroinfectious diseases of how sex matters: (1) the heightened risk of cerebrovascular disease in women living with HIV infection and (2) the implications of Zika virus infection on sexual and reproductive health and vaccine development for women.
Timing, Management, and Outcomes of Liver Transplantation in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Levy Cynthia , Martin Eric
Published: December 2017

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic, immune-mediated cholestatic liver disease that often progresses to secondary biliary cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Short of liver transplantation (LT), there is no effective treatment for PSC. PSC accounts for approximately 5% of total adult LTs in the US and is currently the fifth most common indication for LT. Patient and graft survival for PSC is among the highest for all indications for LT. The main factors that impact outcomes after LT for PSC include biliary strictures, rejection, and recurrence of PSC. Recurrent PSC (rPSC) develops in 20% of LT recipients within 5 years of LT and is associated with negative patient and graft survival. LT is a viable option for recipients who develop rPSC and progress to graft failure.
Treatment of Pisotriquetral Arthritis by Pyrocarbon Interposition Arthroplasty
Authors: Aribert Marion , Choughri Hussein , Leroy Marc , Gaisne Etienne , Bellemère Philippe
Published: December 2017

Purpose Pisiformectomy is the baseline treatment for pisotriquetral arthritis when medical treatment fails to address the problem. This operation may lead to loss of mobility and strength in the wrist. This study reports the short-term outcomes of a new technique for treating pisotriquetral arthritis using a pisotriquetral interposition arthroplasty with a pyrocarbon implant.

Patients and Methods We performed a clinical and radiographic study on a series of eight patients who received this treatment at a mean follow-up of 2.8 years. We also studied the mobility of the implant and did assessed articular instability using dynamic radiology and fluoroscopy.

Results We observed one proximal dislocation of the implant in one hand which was reoperated to reposition the implant and strengthen the capsule. All patients were satisfied or very satisfied with their operation and had an average functional recovery period of 1.6 months. At the last follow-up, the Mayo Wrist Score (MWS), Quick Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (QDASH), and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) scores were 89, 18, and 20, respectively. Postoperatively, there was a 22% improvement in the grip strength of the wrists as well as improved mobility, mainly as regards the radioulnar deviation (47% improvement) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores decreased from 8 preoperatively to 2 at the latest follow-up. The functional radiologic and fluoroscopic study reported good adaptive mobility of the implant in all the patients, without any indication of pisotriquetral joint instability.

Conclusion The short-term results of pisotriquetral arthroplasty using the Pyrocardan implant are encouraging. This new surgical solution appears to be a valid alternative to pisiformectomy or pisotriquetral arthrodesis. Long-term studies are required to confirm these preliminary findings.
Low-Dose Intravenous Paracetamol for Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Indomethacin-Resistant or Contraindicated Preterm Infants: Three Cases Reports
Authors: Matsumura Shun , Oshima Ayumi , Fujinuma Sumie , Tanaka Kosuke , Nagano Nobuhiko , Miyake Fuyu , Masutani Satoshi , Tamura Masanori , Ueda Keiko , Namba Fumihiko
Published: December 2017

Background Although indomethacin (IND) is the standard treatment for hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) in Japan, it may be associated with renal impairment and gastrointestinal complications. The use of paracetamol for hsPDA closure has recently increased. Unlike IND, paracetamol does not have a peripheral vasoconstrictive effect and can be given to infants with contraindications to IND. Based on limited data available from randomized trials, paracetamol and IND seem to have similar effects. However, there have been no reports of the use of paracetamol for hsPDA in Japan.

Cases Our drug administration protocol was approved by the institutional ethics committee after purchasing a clinical trial insurance. In three premature infants in whom IND was contraindicated or ineffective, a 7.5 mg/kg of paracetamol was intravenously administered every 6 hour for 3 days after obtaining parental consents. A temporary hsPDA closure was observed in two of the three infants. However, all three infants eventually needed surgical closure. No side effects, such as hepatic and renal dysfunctions, and adverse events were reported.

Conclusion The intravenous administration of paracetamol was safe and feasible in premature infants with hsPDA. Future clinical trials with optimized dose and timing of administration are needed.
Patients with Revision Modern Megaprostheses of the Distal Femur Have Improved Disease-Specific and Health-Related Outcomes Compared to Those with Primary Replacements
Authors: Heyberger Clémence , Auberger Guillaume , Babinet Antoine , Anract Philippe , Biau David
Published: December 2017

We asked whether there would be any difference between primary and revision modern cemented fixed hinge megaprosthesis of the distal femur in function and activity-related outcomes following treatment of a bone tumor. An identical custom-made fixed hinge cemented megaprosthesis with a hydroxyapatite collar was used in all cases. The main outcomes were joint-specific function, disease-specific activity, and health-related quality of life. Implant survival was also evaluated. Patients in the revision group performed slightly better than patients in the primary group on disease-specific (Toronto Extremity Salvage Score, p = 0.033; Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, p = 0.072) and health-related outcomes (Short Form 36 [SF-36] physical component, p = 0.085; SF-36 mental component, p = 0.069) but not on joint-specific outcomes (Knee Society Score, p = 0.94). The cumulative probabilities of revision for any reason were 14.5% (7–25%) at 5 years with no statistically significant difference between primary and revision procedures (p = 0.77). In conclusion, patients undergoing a revision have similar joint-specific functional outcome but improved disease-specific and health-related outcomes. Implant survival are similar between groups.
Neuromuskuloskeletale Untersuchung und Behandlung bei funktioneller Dysphonie
Authors: Voith Christian , von Piekartz Harry
Published: December 2017

Die funktionelle Dysphonie (FD) präsentiert sich klinisch mit ventralen Halsschmerzen, Heiserkeit und Stimmstörungen. Organisch liegt kein
pathologischer Befund vor, aber möglicherweise spielen laryngeale Strukturen, die Muskulatur und neurale Ansteuerung eine ursächliche Rolle.
Die FD wird zwar primär von Logopäden und Sprachtherapeuten behandelt, aber spezialisierte Manualtherapeuten können wesentlich dazu
beitragen, dass die Therapie erfolgreich verläuft.
Serum 1,5-Anhydroglucitol Concentrations Remain Valid as a Glycemic Control Marker In Diabetes with Earlier Chronic Kidney Disease Stages
Authors: Bai Yuanyuan , Yang Ruihua , Song Yanan , Wang Yuhuan
Published: December 2017

Purpose To investigate the reliability of 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) in diabetes with mild or moderate renal dysfunction.

Methods 668 patients diagnosed with diabetes as DM group and 336 healthy controls as non-DM group were enrolled in this study. DM group was divided into four groups according to estimated glomerular ﬁltration rate (eGFR). Serum concentrations of 1,5-AG, fructosamine (FMN) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were assayed via the enzymatic method, the nitro reduction four nitrogen thiazole blue test,high performance liquid chromatography respectively.

Results In diabetic Patients with eGFR≥30 mL/min, significant negative association still existed between logarithmic transformed 1,5-AG values (ln1,5-AG) and HbA1c (all P<0.001) as well as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (all P<0.05). Besides, eGFR was not one of the determinants of 1,5-AG levels in both DM group (standard β=−0.049, P=0.383 ) and healthy controls (r=-0.095, P=0.084 ). Stepwise multiple linear regression showed that serum uric acid (UA) is one of the influencing factors of 1,5-AG (standard β=0.119, P=0.015) and among the three glycemic markers, only HbA1c was found to be correlated with the homeostasis model assessment for b-cell function (HOMA-β) (standard β=0.097, P=0.012).

Conclusions 1,5-AG values remain reliable as a glycemic control marker In diabetes with mild or moderate dysfunction. Serum UA was significantly and positively correlated with 1,5-AG levels. HbA1c may be a good biomarker for insulin resistance compared with 1,5-AG and FMN.
Early removal of biflanged metal stents in the management of pancreatic walled-off necrosis: a prospective study
Authors: Dhir Vinay , Adler Douglas , Dalal Ankit , Aherrao Nitin , Shah Rahul , Maydeo Amit
Published: December 2017

Background and study aims Dedicated stents placed under endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance have shown promise for the management of pancreatic walled-off necrosis (WON). A long duration of stent placement may increase the risk of adverse events. We prospectively evaluated the effects of (i) early removal of biflanged metal stents (BFMSs) and (ii) additional stenting of the pancreatic duct with plastic stents in patients with ductal leaks, on the risk of WON recurrence.

Patients and methods Symptomatic patients with pancreatic WON underwent EUS-guided BFMS placement, followed by necrosectomy, when required, from Day 3. A 5 Fr plastic stent was placed in patients with ductal leak. BFMS was removed when the WON cavity had collapsed completely. Patients were followed up at 3-month intervals.

Results BFMS placement was successful in all 88 patients. A total of 64 patients (72.7 %) underwent necrosectomy (median 3 sessions). All BFMSs were removed at a median of 3.5 weeks (range 3 – 17 weeks). Ductal disconnection and leak occurred in 53/87 (60.9 %) and 61/87 (70.1 %) patients, respectively. A 5 Fr stent was placed in 56/61 patients (91.8 %) with ductal leak. Overall, 22 patients (25.0 %) had adverse events (17 mild, 1 moderate, 3 severe, 1 fatal). Recurrence was noted in 8/88 (9.1 %) at a median follow-up of 22 months. The recurrence rate was higher in patients with ductal disconnection than in those without (13.2 % vs. 2.9 %; P = 0.08), and was similar in patients with vs. without pancreatic duct stenting (7.1 % vs. 12.9 %; P = 0.44). Seven recurrences (87.5 %) partially regressed on follow-up and did not require therapy; in one case, drainage with a plastic stent was performed.

Conclusions Short-term BFMS placement is an effective therapy for pancreatic WON. The majority of recurrences developed in patients with ductal disconnection and did not require therapy. Additional pancreatic duct stents probably do not influence the recurrence rate.
Gay men's chemsex survival stories
Authors: Smith Vivienne , Tasker Fiona
Published: December 2017

Background
Chemsex (the combined use of drugs and sexual experiences) by men who have sex with men is associated with the transmission of sexually transmissible infections and blood-borne viruses, but psychosocial factors associated with chemsex engagement and remission remain unidentified. In the present study we considered how do gay men self-identify a chemsex problem and remain chemsex free? Methods: Using a life course perspective, the present qualitative interview study examined participants’ reflections to discern pathways in and out of chemsex engagement. Six participants (aged ≥18 years) were drawn from a cohort of men who had completed the tailored therapeutic Structured Weekend Antidote Program. Transcripts were analysed using a Labovian narrative analysis framework. Results: Each man identified a multiplicity of incidents and feelings that contributed to their engagement in chemsex, and engagement in chemsex was connected to participants’ identity development and desire to belong to a gay community. Underlying individual accounts, a common narrative suggested a process through which chemsex journeys were perceived as spiralling from exciting and self-exploratory incidents into an out-of-control, high-risk activity that was isolating and prompted engagement with therapy. Despite seeking therapeutic engagement, participants expressed uncertainty about maintaining a gay future without chemsex. Conclusions: Chemsex was associated with a positive gay identity gain, which explained the ambivalence participants expressed in maintaining a gay future without chemsex despite their awareness of negative consequences. This is significant for understanding both why chemsex pathways may prove attractive and why they may be so difficult to leave.
How to master the host immune system?Leishmaniaparasites have the solutions!
Authors: Rossi Matteo , Fasel Nicolas
Published: December 2017

Infection by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania results in the development of leishmaniasis, an increasingly prevalent group of diseases affecting over 12 million people worldwide. Leishmaniasis can have very different outcomes ranging from cutaneous lesions, mucosal lesions to visceralization depending on the species of the infecting parasite and on the immune response developed by the host. As an obligate intracellular parasite, residing within macrophages, Leishmania evolved in strict contact with the host immune system, developing different mechanisms to evade or modulate the immune response. Various types of immune responses are observed during different Leishmania spp. infections, resulting in parasite clearance but also contributing to the pathogenesis, thus increasing the complexity of the course of the disease. Interestingly, depending on the type of leishmaniasis developed, opposite treatment strategies, which either boost or inhibit the inflammatory response, have shown efficacy. In this review, we summarize the contribution of different immune cell types to the development of the anti-leishmanial immune response and the parasite strategies to evade and modulate host immunity. Further, we discuss the involvement of co-infecting pathogens in the determination of the outcome of leishmaniasis and on the effectiveness of treatment and the implication of the immune response for treatment and vaccine development.
Facilitators, Friends, or the Formerly Afflicted?
Authors: Smith Douglas C. , Schwebel Frank J. , Larimer Mary E.
Published: December 2017

Despite the growing interest in integrating peers into emerging adults’ substance use interventions, limited related research is available. Issues of conceptual clarity also remain regarding the integration of peers into interventions based on three distinct approaches used in the field. First, peers could refer to individuals with similar backgrounds who are facilitating an intervention (i.e., peer-delivered). Second, peers could be friends who are invited to participate in an emerging adult target client’s intervention (i.e., peer-enhanced). Finally, peers could represent individuals who formerly suffered from substance use disorder and are currently running peer recovery support-based treatments (i.e., peer recovery support). This chapter provides a review of research with these three types of peer constituencies and proposes language conventions to better identify who comprises a peer in an emerging adult substance use intervention. Based on the promising findings, additional research is recommended for all three models that integrates peers into emerging adults’ treatment episodes.
Emerging Adults, Mutual-Help Organizations, and Addiction Recovery
Authors: Bergman Brandon G. , Kelly John F. , Fallah-Sohy Nilofar , Makhani Sarah
Published: December 2017

A body of literature has shown that free, widely available mutual-help organizations (MHOs), such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), offer cost-efficient community-based sources of recovery support for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Emerging adults (18–29 years old) are a prevalent group of individuals in the SUD treatment system who present unique challenges and typically have poorer outcomes than those of older adults (e.g., 30+ years). Given the need to identify low-cost strategies that can help destabilize the course of SUD for emerging adults, this chapter reviews the extent to which emerging adults participate in MHOs and the degree to which they benefit from participation in MHOs. The chapter also outlines the mechanisms through which MHO participation promotes better outcomes and the factors that influence emerging adults’ MHO participation and participation-related benefit. The chapter then highlights opportunities for timely but as-of-yet untapped targets for emerging adult recovery-related research, such as the intersection between MHO participation and opioid agonist treatment.
Collegiate Recovery Programs for Emerging Adults
Authors: Castedo Sierra , Steiker Lori Holleran
Published: December 2017

Collegiate recovery programs (CRPs) offer support to college students in recovery from substance use disorders. That support is centered around a community of students in recovery, recovery-supportive programming, and a space on campus where recovery is actively celebrated and normalized. While the first CRP was established 40 years ago, recent proliferation of these programs across the United States has led to a diversity of models and practices that is not yet well catalogued. National surveys of CRPs are helpful in demonstrating the range of variation among CRPs and the positive effects these programs have on the students they serve, although there are methodological limitations. A case study of the CRP at the University of Texas at Austin provides an example of a CRP model at one end of the spectrum of variation. These programs provide a unique opportunity for institutions of higher education and the communities in which they are embedded to support college students in recovery from substance use disorders.
An International Perspective
Authors: Claro Heloísa Garcia , De Oliveira Márcia Aparecida Ferreira , de Almeida Lopes Fernandes Ivan Filipe , Smith Douglas C. , Tarifa Rosana Ribeiro
Published: December 2017

Brazilian emerging adults are treated for alcohol and other drugs problems in psychosocial care centers for alcohol and other drugs (CAPSad). The treatment for these individuals changed drastically over the past 40 years in Brazil, resulting in numerous positive changes involving deinstitutionalization, harm reduction, and comprehensive care. Against this backdrop, the goal of this chapter is to review the prevalence and etiology of substance use in this population in Brazil, discuss the Brazilian treatment system and which services are offered to this population, and present findings from a study comparing emerging and older adults, assessing the care they received in CAPSad in two states of Brazil. Data were collected from 2013 to 2014 in 15 CAPSad in the State of São Paulo and 14 CAPSad in the State of Minas Gerais. The results show emerging adults were less satisfied with treatment and more likely to be using illicit drugs than older adults. These results show the necessity of implementing treatment strategies focused on these population needs, to increase their treatment satisfaction and prevent the use of illegal drugs.
Exploration Phase Goal 2
Authors: Eddington Kari M. , Strauman Timothy J. , Vieth Angela Z. , Kolden Gregory G.
Published: December 2017

Chapter 6 addresses goal 2 of the exploration phase of self-system therapy, which focuses on how clients pursue their goals. Clients assess their self-regulatory style by exploring their self-guides (clients’ own standards and expectations that other people have of them), promotion and prevention goals, and self-beliefs. With a better understanding of the role of self-discrepancies in depression, clients are asked to take a look at the daily influences on their experiences. Clients are helped by therapists to synthesize what they have learned in previous sessions and implement corrective strategies in daily life. The client begins by filling out worksheets that keep track of events in daily life. The worksheets ask the client to think about and write down how these daily events are related to personal goals and standards.
Adaptation Phase Goal 1
Authors: Eddington Kari M. , Strauman Timothy J. , Vieth Angela Z. , Kolden Gregory G.
Published: December 2017

Chapter 7 addresses the module 1 goal of the adaptation phase of self-system therapy. It describes strategies aimed at reducing self-discrepancies, including modifying standards and enhancing the importance of positive qualities or characteristics. Depression typically involves self-discrepancies, and most people with depression can benefit from reducing or eliminating self-discrepancies and bringing self-guides and self-beliefs more in line with each other. One approach is to lower standards (i.e., ought or ideal self-guides) by identifying and modifying unrealistic expectations. Another method is to find a new way to approach the preferred goal rather than lowering the standard. Evaluation of self-discrepancies sometimes shows that the expectations are invalid and that the focus should shift from perceived deficits to strengths.
Theoretical Overview
Authors: Eddington Kari M. , Strauman Timothy J. , Vieth Angela Z. , Kolden Gregory G.
Published: December 2017

Chapter 2 introduces the theory underlying self-system therapy (SST). The terminology and concepts of SST are clarified for therapists and their clients. Self-regulation is a motivational process involving ongoing comparisons between the actual self (i.e., the person I am) and the ideal self (i.e., the person I want to be) or ought self (i.e., the person I should be). Self-beliefs are characteristics that define the actual self, and self-guides are characteristics that define the ideal and ought selves. SST’s core concepts include self-discrepancy and regulatory focus, and the chapter discusses how those concepts relate to goal pursuit, self-evaluation, characteristic orientations, and depression.
Exploration Phase (Sessions 5–8)
Authors: Eddington Kari M. , Strauman Timothy J. , Vieth Angela Z. , Kolden Gregory G.
Published: December 2017

Chapter 6 provides a session-by-session guide to the exploration phase of self-system therapy (SST). This phase involves assessing important aspects of the client’s self-regulation, including self-knowledge and regulatory style. The therapist applies two tactics specific to SST. Self-belief analysis is used to examine the content, function, origins, and adaptiveness of the client’s beliefs about herself or himself in relation to others, with an emphasis on goals and standards. Psychological situation analysis is applied to evaluation of the client’s goals and standards in everyday situations to determine his or her typical patterns of self-regulation. The therapist and client then construct a revised problem formulation and a set of specific targets for reducing self-discrepancies and improving the effectiveness of self-regulation.