bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardization of Czech version of beck depression inventory (BDI II)
Authors: Ptacek R. , Raboch J. , Vnukova M. , Hlinka J. , Cervenkova M.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Depression is now the fourth most common cause of invalidity. World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2020 it will be the second most common cause (WHO, 2001). Beck Depression Inventory (BDI II) is highly reliable tool for measuring the intensity of depression.

Methods

The aim of this study was to assess the validity and reliability of the Czech version of BDI II. This was done on a representative sample of working population.

Results

Results from 1027 participants were obtained. The sample was equally distributed among males and females. T-test showed that on average women suffered from higher depressive symptoms than males. Cronbach alpha showed high items consistency of 0,92 and confirmatory factor analysis found, as predicted, 3 factors: cognitive, somatic and affective.

Conclusion

Cronbach alpha and factor analysis showed high internal consistency and reliability of Czech version of BDI II. Czech version of BDI II is thus not only a translation but can be considered a psychometric tool that is comparable with the original version. The results of this study are therefore comparable with other available results.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
The acting out in patients with Schizophrenia examined in a forensic psychiatric assessment
Authors: Khouadja S. , Younes S. , Chatti S. , Ben Soussia R. , Zarrouk L. , Nasr M.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Many studies have shown that schizophrenic patients are responsible for the highest rates of violence among all the mentally ill patients.

Aims of the study

Describe the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with schizophrenia examined in a forensic psychiatric assessment and identify the risk factors of violence in these patients.

Methodology

A retrospective study carried out in the psychiatric department of university hospital of Mahdia during fifteen years involving 40 patients with schizophrenia examined in a forensic psychiatric assessment following a forensic act. These patients were compared to a population of 40 patients followed in the same establishment for the same disease and without criminal record.

Results

Age average of 36.08 years, male (95%), rural origin (65%), primary level education (47.5%), single (65%), unemployed (65%) and average socio-economic level (65%). Personal psychiatric history (87.5%), personality disorder (12.5%), judiciary history (12.5%) and substance abuse (57.5%). Subtypes of schizophrenia: undifferentiated (52.5%) and paranoid (30%). They have committed serious physical assaults (55%) and aggression against property (27.5%). The victim was mostly a family member (40%), under the influence of toxic (22%), driven by delusions of persecution (61%), with hallucinatory mechanism (55%). The psychiatric expert has concluded an abolition of discernment in 77.5% of cases. Risk factors of acting out were: rural origin, alcohol and psychoactive substances use, productive forms of schizophrenia, poor adherence and irregular monitoring.

Conclusion

The knowledge of risk factors improves the management and allows us better prevention of violence among our patients.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
The Dietary Status of Adults With ADHD
Authors: Kjaer J.N. , Jakobsen L. , Lasgaard M. , Munk-Jørgensen P.
Published: June 2017

Objective

The aim was to investigate the dietary status of adults with ADHD. Furthermore, we compared the group with a representative sample of a healthy adult Danish population.

Method

Data were collected from the ADHD database operated by the ADHD outpatient clinic at Aarhus university hospital. We used data from newly referred patients in a seven months period from April 2014 through October 2014. The collected data include weight, height, blood pressure, somatic or psychiatric co-morbidity, blood sample, physical activity scale. Concerning the diagnosis of ADHD: DIVA, ASRS, BRIEF-V. Inter99 was used to assess the dietary status. The representative sample was obtained as a part of a public health survey from 2010 called “how are you” conducted in the same region of Denmark as the location of the psychiatric hospital. Preliminary results, one hundred and forty-three patients were included in the study, 52% males. The mean age was 30.9 years. A larger proportion of ADHD patients fall in the category “unhealthy dietary pattern” compared to the representative sample population (26% vs. 12%), while the proportion in the “healthy dietary pattern” category is markedly lower (14% vs. 24%). The differences seem to be explained by lower than recommended intakes of fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a general shift towards more unhealthy dietary patterns among patients with ADHD. This exposes them to higher risk of somatic diseases, notably diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle interventions could be a necessary part of standard treatment for patients with ADHD.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
The Effectiveness of Multi-systemic Family Therapy in Bullying Behavior of Adolescents
Authors: Gashi Bytyçi D.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Multi-systemic family therapy is a type of psychotherapy that base on the assumption that all kinds of difficulties in individuals are at least partly explained by dysfunctions in the family system and other systems to which the individual belongs.

Objectives

This study examined associations between bullying behavior and family ethos, and provides data for changes after treatment with Multi-systemic family therapy-Integrative model, as a culturally sensitive approach.

Methods

Thirty-six adolescents with bullying behavior and their families were evaluated. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: Family therapy group (FT-G) and Control group (CG). The FT-G was treated with integrative model for 6 months; the focus of FT sessions was on proximity-control goals and plans, bugs in the plans, emotive, and types of relations between family members programs. The CG was treated with the same frequency as the FT-G, but with interventions consisting of a detailed survey of their mental health, adolescents’ feelings, daily routines and life events. Every month, data were collected through interviews, questionnaires, observation facilitating techniques and observations of a family play therapy.

Results

In the study participated 36 outpatient adolescents ages 14–16. Seventeen adolescents were male and 19 female (Fig. 1).

Conclusions

At baseline, 70 percent of participants met criteria for more than one of the following disorders, by ICD-10: conduct disorder, substance use, bulimia, borderline personality disorder, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Six months after the baseline measurement, there was a significant decrease in bullying behavior, substance use, smoking, excessive social media use, and anger control for the FT-G compared with the CG.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
The Regional Project for the Treatment of Early Psychosis Implemented in the Reggio Emilia Mental Health Department: Preliminary Data From a 2-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Pelizza L. , Raballo A. , Semrov E. , Azzali S. , Garlassi S. , Paterlini F. , Scazza I. , Fontana F. , Favazzo R. , Fabiani M. , Pensieri L. , Barbanti Silva V. , Cioncolini L.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Several studies had shown the effectiveness of combined interventions in the treatment of young patients with a first episode of psychosis (FEP). More controversial are the evidence about the stability of the therapeutic outcomes in individuals ultra-high risk (UHR).

Aims

To describe the regional project for the treatment of early psychosis implemented in the Reggio Emilia Mental Health Department (ReMHD) and also to report preliminary data from a 2-year follow-up.

Methods

In addition with the treatment as usual (TAU), treatment implemented within the regional project for early psychosis (PREP) in the ReMHD comprises the following:

– pharmacotherapy according to international guidelines;

– a phase-specific individualized Cognitive-Behavioural therapy;

– a psycho-educational intervention addressed to family members;

– a case management recovery-oriented.

Action strategies are preceded by the administration of Reggio Emilia at Risk mental States Battery Checklist as a comprehensive assessment useful to define the severity and the quality of symptoms, the degree of functioning, the subjectivity of suffering, and the perceived quality of life.

Results

The assessment carried out after 24 months of continuous treatment showed significant improvements in both the psychotic symptoms (positive, negative and general psychopathology PANSS subscales) that the daily functioning (SOFAS).

Conclusions

Although our sample is still relatively small (n = 50) to draw definitive conclusions, it is emerging the good prognosis for UHR individuals and patients with FEP submitted on PREP treatment implemented in the ReMHD.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Hypnotic Drugs in Hospital. Evaluation of Their use: From Prescription to Administration
Authors: Wise S. , Lukat S. , Dalle Pécal M. , Diviné C. , Henry C.
Published: June 2017

In 2015, a French agency, Haute Autorité de santé (HAS), published recommendations for the use of hypnotic drugs. We evaluated the compliance with good practice in prescription and administration studying 3 hypnotics (lormetazepam, zolpidem, zopiclone) referenced in our establishment (psychiatry, rehabilitation, recuperative and long-term care) and melatonin (immediate release hospital preparation). Prescriptions were analyzed on a given day (dosage, length of treatment, prescription modalities). Night nursing practices were collected. Amongst 423 hospitalized patients, 105 had a hypnotic monotherapy, 3 an association melatonin/zopiclone and 6 a melatonin monotherapy. The most prescribed molecule was zopiclone (79%). Prevalence of hypnotic prescription was 25.5%. 17.6% of these prescriptions were for less than 28 days, 82.5% were at maximum dosage, 46.3% were in systematic mode and 53.7% in conditional mode. Amongst the 22 patients over 65 years old, only 8 received half hypnotic dose. Concerning the 9 prescriptions of melatonin, dosage varied from 3 to 9 mg, 1 was in conditional and only 1 specified terms of use. All 15 nurses met, adapt administration to the patient's bedtime. Five nurses have already woken up patients to give them hypnotics. The prevalence of patients with hypnotics is higher than the general French population (6.4%). HAS recommendations are not all followed: duration of prescription greater then 28 days, few dosage adaptations. Nurses generally respect hypnotic administration rules. Melatonin is not often prescribed and has no prescription or administration recommendations. Our results confirm the need to spread hypnotic and melatonin recommendations in health facilities. Hospital pharmacists can relay such recommendations.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
A Systematic Review of Suicide Prevention Strategies
Authors: Aini K.
Published: June 2017

Background

Suicide is one of the serious problems, which become ten causes of death in the world. An increased risk of suicide groups stimulates researchers to undertake the development of suicide prevention efforts with various approaches.

Objectives

To examine evidence of suicide preventive interventions and to make recommendation for the further programs and research.

Methods

Fifteen identified systematic review articles were taken through an electronic search of the Cochrane library, McMaster health forum, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Suicidology online. They have been published between March 2008 until January 2015, using the keyword “suicide”, “self-harm”, “suicide prevention”, and “systematic review”. Criteria of this review include the type of intervention, intervention category, group intervention and intervention effectiveness.

Results

The intervention was performed using a strategy of promotion, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of the target group of teenagers, sexual perversion, suicide risk groups, such as drug abuse, mental illness patients, a group of health workers and the general public. Effectiveness of therapy has different effects and requires a combination of an intervention strategy with other interventions to obtain optimal results.

Conclusion

The strategies of suicide prevention which were identified by various intervention approaches given to the large population require more stringent controls and difficulty in performing evaluation. Furthermore, pharmacological and psychological therapies are recommended to reduce the suicide rate in more specific setting such as a hospital or mental health clinic.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Intelligence Functioning and Associated Factors in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Türkoglu S. , Türkoğlu G. , Celik C. , Ucan H.
Published: June 2017

Objectives

Cerebral palsy (CP) is described as a primary disorder of posture and movement; however, intellectual impairment is prevalent in children with CP.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to examine the association with intellectual level and gross motor function, hand function, type of CP, and the presence of co-morbid disorders in these children.

Methods

A total of 107 children with CP were included in the study. Intellectual functions of the children were determined by clinical assessment, adaptive function of daily life, and individualized standardized intelligence testing. Gross motor function and hand function of the patients were classified using the gross motor function classification system and the bimanual fine motor function measurements.

Results

The mean age of the patients were 8.10 ± 3.43 years (age: 2–16 years). During clinical typing, we observed that 80.4% of the patients were spastic, 11.2% were mixed, 4.7% were dyskinetic, and 3.7% were ataxic. No significant relationship was determined between the type of CP and intellectual functioning (P > 0.05). Intellectual functioning was found to be significantly correlated negatively with both gross motor function and hand functions level (P < 0.001). The factors related to intellectual functioning were neonatal convulsion (x2 = 12.97, P = 0.002), epilepsy (x2 = 29.221, P < 0.001), and speech disorders (x2 = 23.29, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

There is an association between intellectual functioning in children with CP and the degree of motor impairment, neonatal convulsion, epilepsy, and speech disorders. Intelligence assessment should be an essential part of CP evaluation.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Dual Diagnosis and Treatment: The Experience of a Multiprofessional Team in Mental Health
Authors: Jaber J. , Verissimo J. , Mendonça J. , Schwartz M. , Leite S. , Humel S. , Moravia A. , Raposo T.T. , Garrido M. , Halabi E. , Hollanda A. , Reys B.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

The work was developed with the people hospitalized in the period of 1 year in a psychiatric clinic in Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil. 175 patients who presented dual diagnosis were evaluated.

Objectives

The research aims to know the distribution of the most frequent psychiatric diagnosis associated with the disorders for the use of psychoactive substances. The work also has as objective to assess the treatment of patients carrying these disorders so that there is a better efficiency of the individual treatment plan.

Methods

The work consisted of the evaluation of all patients who were admitted to the clinic in the period of 1 year, using the ICD-10 for the diagnosis of dual pathologies. All the patients were assessed by the multiprofessional team, composed by general practicioner, psychiatrist, psychologist, pharmaceutic, therapist in chemical dependence, family therapist and physiotherapist. The patients were treated with the use of psychopharms, cognitive behavioral psychotherapy, 12-step program, art therapy and moderate physical activity. Family members of all patients were also interviewed.

Results

In the evaluation conducted by the team, it was found the following distribution of the most frequent diagnosis associated to disorder for the use of psychoactive substances: depression (26.3%), personality disorder (22.9%), bipolar disorder (22.3%), non-schizophrenic psychosis (12.6%), schizophrenia (9.1%), and other diagnosis (6.8%).

Conclusions

The formulation of the dual diagnosis provided a better approach of the patients on the part of the team, promoting the strengthening of the therapeutic bond and causing positive impact on the evolution of these disorders.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
A study of anxiety and depression in Vitiligo patients: New challenges to treat
Authors: Vernwal D.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Vitiligo, a dermatological problem, affects a person's emotional and psychological well being, having major consequences on patient's life. Most of the patients of vitiligo report embarrassment, helpless and low self esteem.

Aims

To study socio-demographic profile and psychiatric comorbidities and their correlation with site of lesion in vitiligo patients.

Methods and material

100 vitiligo patients and 100 subjects as control group who were well enough to complete the assessment were assessed with a semi-structured self designed Proforma, Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS) to obtain the relevant information. Data so obtained were tabulated, analyzed and conclusions were drawn using suitable statistics (i.e. Chi2).

Results

79% of vitiligo patients were between age 13 to 45 years, 67% were males, 33% were females patients in study group. In comparison to healthy controls, the psychiatric morbidity was found to be significantly higher in the vitiligo group (62% v/s 25%). 37%, 18%, and 7% vitiligo patients suffered from Mixed anxiety and depressive disorder, Depressive disorder and Generalized anxiety disorder respectively. Incidence of psychiatric morbidity was higher in patients who had lesions more on exposed body areas.

Conclusions

Vitiligo affected marital, sex life and intimacy. This generates psychological distress and disrupts the social relationship and creates a vicious stress-vitiligo cycle. Among vitiligo cases, psychiatric morbidity was found more frequent in young participants and higher in patients having lesions on exposed body areas.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Prevalence of ADHD symptoms among adults in the general population in Finland
Authors: Alaheino L. , Leppämäki S.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Earlier considered a disorder affecting only children, today worldwide adult ADHD prevalence is estimated at 2.5%. The core symptoms; inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, often persevere impacting many fields of life.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of ADHD symptoms in the general Finnish adult population.

Methods

We started with a population based and randomly drawn sample of 3000 adults, aged 18–44 years. When contacted, participants were provided three alternative ways to participate (online, letter, telephone interview). Using the adult ADHD rating scale (ASRS) screener all participants (n = 748) were categorized into groups: possibly symptomatic (≥4 points), controls (≤2 points) and undefined (3 points). Fifty-seven possibly symptomatic consented to further evaluation by a telephone interview, together with two age- and gender matched controls each.

Results

Using the results from the ASRS screener, we calculated a 10.96% prevalence. Analysis of the complete ASRS resulted in a 5.08% and the recommended two-step evaluation in a 3.34% prevalence, out of whom two thirds considered being moderately or severely impaired by the symptoms.

Conclusions

This study suggests that a large number of adults in the general population are negatively affected by ADHD symptoms, almost all unrecognized by health care professionals. As ADHD is a burden for the patient, his family and the society, adult ADHD deserves greater attention in the future.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Affective temperaments in medical students using prescription stimulants for neuroenhancement
Authors: Mineo L. , Sarraf Y. , Hanauer S. , Patel D. , Ingram C. , Montemagno L. , Concerto C. , Battaglia F.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

The non-medical use of prescription stimulants (NMUPS) is a common habit among American college students; It refers to the use of stimulant medications by students who do not qualify for prescription or in higher quantities or manners other than prescribed in order to improve their academic performance. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have examined the role of specific affective, biologically determined and inherited traits that might predict misuse of stimulants for neuroenhancement in graduate education.

Aim

To examine the role for individual temperament traits on non-medical use of prescription stimulants (NMUPS) in medical college students.

Methods

We investigated 181 students using the short form of the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Auto-questionnaire (TEMPS-A). Furthermore, we assessed the association of demographic variables and health risk behaviors (drinking, smoking, use other illicit drugs) with NMUPS. Predictors were investigated using logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of NMUPS was 30.06% with 7.1% users being previously diagnosed with ADHD. NMUPS users had higher scores on the hyperthymic scale. The main reason for taking NMUPS was to “Increase ability to stay alert during studying” (80.1%) followed by “Allow studying for longer periods of time” (19.9%). The hyperthymic temperament score and being a user of other illicit drugs increased the odds of becoming NMUPS.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that personality profiles can be used to identify students with an increased risk for NMUPS for early personalized counseling and behavioral intervention based on their temperament profile.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Suicide and drug and alcohol addiction: Self-destructive behaviours. An observational study on clinic hospital population
Authors: Nardella A. , Falcone G. , Giordano G. , Erbuto D. , Migliorati M. , Innamorati M. , Girardi P. , Pompili M.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Suicidal behaviour and drug and alcohol dependence represent two different aspects of self-destructive behavior.

Objectives

We evaluated the relationship between suicidal behavior and substance and alcohol addiction. It was investigated the role of childhood trauma in these self-destructive behaviors and in the development of the two mental constructions of hopelessness and mentalization.

Aims

We also assessed how a high level of hopelessness could affect suicidal ideation and how low or absent capacity of mentalization could influence the development of substance and/or alcohol addiction.

Methods

This naturalistic, observational study included 50 patients (mean age = 46.54; S.D = 14.57) recruited from the department of psychiatry (n = 18) and the centre for suicide prevention (n = 32) of Sant’Andrea Hospital (Rome). Different questionnaires were administered to each patient from February to May 2016.

Results

There was not a statistically significant relationship between suicidal behavior and addict behavior. Childhood trauma resulted a risk factor for alcohol abuse with a relationship that tended to significance (P = 0.07). Physical and sexual abuses were significantly associated with addiction (respectively P = 0.014; P = 0.033). It was showed a statistically significant interaction between high level of hopelessness and suicidal ideation (P = 0.037). The absence of mentalization was related to the absence of alcohol abuse (P = 0.061). Finally, trauma experienced during childhood was associated with high level of hopelessness (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Suicidal behavior is influenced indirectly by a childhood traumatic experience that conditioning the level of hopelessness. Childhood trauma affected directly the development of drug abuse and alcoholism. The capacity of mentalization was not related with childhood trauma.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy Improves Hemodynamic Parameters in Patients with Vasculogenic Erectile Dysfunction: A Triplex Ultrasonography-Based Sham-Controlled Trial
Authors: Kalyvianakis Dimitrios , Hatzichristou Dimitrios
Published: June 2017

Background

Although several reports have documented the subjective improvement of erectile function after low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT) in patients with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED), objective assessment data of penile hemodynamics are lacking.

Aim

To assess penile hemodynamics before and 3 months after LI-ESWT in a group of patients with documented vasculogenic ED.

Methods

This was a double-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial. Forty-six patients with ED were randomized; 30 underwent LI-ESWT and 16 had a sham procedure in double-blinded fashion. All patients underwent penile triplex ultrasonography by the same investigator immediately before and 3 months after treatment. Patient demographics, International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain (IIEF-ED) score, and minimal clinically important difference were assessed at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after treatment.

Outcomes

Changes in peak systolic velocity and resistance index as measured by triplex ultrasonography at baseline and 3 months after treatment were the main outcomes of the study. Secondary outcomes were changes in the IIEF-EF score from baseline to 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after treatment and the percentage of patients reaching a minimal clinically important difference during the same period for the two groups.

Results

IIEF-EF minimal clinically important differences for the active vs sham group were observed for 56.7% vs 12.5% (P = .005) at 1 month, 56.7% vs 12.5% (P = .003) at 3 months, 63.3% vs 18.8% (P = .006) at 6 months, 66.7% vs 31.3% (P = .022) at 9 months, and 75% vs 25% (P = .008) at 12 months. Mean peak systolic velocity increased by 4.5 and 0.6 cm/s in the LI-ESWT and sham groups, respectively (P < .001).

Clinical Implications

Such results offer objective and subjective documentation of the value of this novel treatment modality for men with vasculogenic ED.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths include the prospective, randomized, sham-controlled type of study and the assessment of penile hemodynamics. Limitations include the small sample and strict inclusion criteria that do not reflect everyday clinical practice.

Conclusion

The present study confirms the beneficial effect of LI-ESWT on penile hemodynamics and the beneficial effect of this treatment up to 12 months.
Aquatic Ecosystems in a Changing Climate
Authors: Inamdar Shreeram , Shanley Jamie , McDowell William
Published: June 2017

Chapman Conference on Extreme Climate Event Impacts on Aquatic Biogeochemical Cycles and Fluxes; San Juan, Puerto Rico, 22–27 January 2017
Magnetic turbulence in a table-top laser-plasma relevant to astrophysical scenarios
Authors: Chatterjee Gourab , Schoeffler Kevin M. , Kumar Singh Prashant , Adak Amitava , Lad Amit D. , Sengupta Sudip , Kaw Predhiman , Silva Luis O. , Das Amita , Kumar G. Ravindra
Published: June 2017

Turbulent magnetic fields abound in nature, pervading astrophysical, solar, terrestrial and laboratory plasmas. Understanding the ubiquity of magnetic turbulence and its role in the universe is an outstanding scientific challenge. Here, we report on the transition of magnetic turbulence from an initially electron-driven regime to one dominated by ion-magnetization in a laboratory plasma produced by an intense, table-top laser. Our observations at the magnetized ion scale of the saturated turbulent spectrum bear a striking resemblance with spacecraft measurements of the solar wind magnetic-field spectrum, including the emergence of a spectral kink. Despite originating from diverse energy injection sources (namely, electrons in the laboratory experiment and ion free-energy sources in the solar wind), the turbulent spectra exhibit remarkable parallels. This demonstrates the independence of turbulent spectral properties from the driving source of the turbulence and highlights the potential of small-scale, table-top laboratory experiments for investigating turbulence in astrophysical environments.
Computerized cognitive remediation therapy effects on resting state brain activity and cognition in schizophrenia
Authors: Fan Fengmei , Zou Yizhuang , Tan Yunlong , Hong L. Elliot , Tan Shuping
Published: June 2017

This study aimed to test how an 8-week training using computerized cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT) would modify resting brain functional activity and improve cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia. Twenty-seven patients with schizophrenia were recruited and randomized into two groups: CCRT or treatment-as-usual (TAU). The CCRT group received 40 sessions of computerized cognitive training over an eight-week period. There was a significant treatment group × time interaction on the processing speed (trail making test: F = 8.14, P = 0.01) and a trend in problem solving (mazes test: P = 0.06). Post-hoc tests showed that CCRT but not TAU significantly improved scores from baseline to end-of-treatment on these two cognitive assessments. For the resting brain functional activity, significant group × time interaction effect was found in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC)/anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and brainstem pons region. Post-hoc tests showed that there was significant increased activity in the mPFC/ACC in CCRT but not TAU group. In this small sample study, computerized cognitive remediation therapy is shown to enhance mPFC/ACC activity even at resting state and improve cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia. If replicated, this community and clinic accessible therapy may assist cognitive remediation effort for people with schizophrenia.
Differentiating Staphylococcus aureus from Escherichia coli mastitis: S. aureus triggers unbalanced immune-dampening and host cell invasion immediately after udder infection
Authors: Günther Juliane , Petzl Wolfram , Bauer Isabel , Ponsuksili Siriluck , Zerbe Holm , Schuberth Hans-Joachim , Brunner Ronald M. , Seyfert Hans-Martin
Published: June 2017

The etiology determines quality and extent of the immune response after udder infection (mastitis). Infections with Gram negative bacteria (e.g. Escherichia coli) will quickly elicit strong inflammation of the udder, fully activate its immune defence via pathogen receptor driven activation of IκB/NF-κB signaling. This often eradicates the pathogen. In contrast, Gram-positive bacteria (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus) will slowly elicit a much weaker inflammation and immune response, frequently resulting in chronic infections. However, it was unclear which immune regulatory pathways are specifically triggered by S. aureus causing this partial immune subversion. We therefore compared in first lactating cows the earliest (1–3 h) udder responses against infection with mastitis causing pathogens of either species. Global transcriptome profiling, bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation of key aspects revealed as S. aureus infection specific features the (i) failure to activating IκB/NF-κB signaling; (ii) activation of the wnt/β-catenin cascade resulting in active suppression of NF-κB signaling and (iii) rearrangement of the actin-cytoskeleton through modulating Rho GTPase regulated pathways. This facilitates invasion of pathogens into host cells. Hence, S. aureus mastitis is characterized by eliciting unbalanced immune suppression rather than inflammation and invasion of S. aureus into the epithelial cells of the host causing sustained infection.
Erratum: Donor-derived exosomes induce specific regulatory T cells to suppress immune inflammation in the allograft heart
Authors: Song Jiangping , Huang Jie , Chen Xiao , Teng Xiao , Song Zhizhao , Xing Yong , Wang Mangyuan , Chen Kai , Wang Zheng , Yang Pingchang , Hu Shengshou
Published: June 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 20077; published online: 29 January 2016; updated: 30 June 2017. The original HTML version of this Article listed an incorrect volume number. This has now been corrected in the HTML version; the PDF version was correct at the time of publication.
A low cost and rapid analytical technique for direct spectrophotometric determination of chromium in V–Cr–Ti alloys without a chromogenic agent
Authors: Tian L. F. , Zou D. S. , Dai Y. C. , Wang L. L. , Gao W.
Published: June 2017

A simple, rapid and accurate spectrophotometric method was developed for the determination of chromium in V–Cr–Ti ternary alloy without any prior separation and chromogenic agent.
An alkylating immobilization linker for immunochemical epigenetic assessment
Authors: Kurinomaru Takaaki , Kojima Naoshi , Kurita Ryoji
Published: June 2017

A bifunctional linker molecule containing nitrogen mustard and a cyclic disulfide group has been developed for the covalent immobilization of intact DNA, which allows quantitative analysis of epigenomic modification in immobilized DNA using SPR-based immune sensing.
Kinetic assembly of coordination networks
Authors: Ohtsu Hiroyoshi , Kawano Masaki
Published: June 2017

Kinetic assembly is an important method for obtaining desired materials in chemical synthesis and materials science.
Li2O2 as a cathode additive for the initial anode irreversibility compensation in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Bie Yitian , Yang Jun , Wang Jiulin , Zhou Jingjing , Nuli Yanna
Published: June 2017

Li2O2 is proposed as a promising cathode additive to compensate the first cycle Li loss in Li-ion batteries.
On the metastability of doubly charged homonuclear diatomics
Authors: Fantuzzi Felipe , Cardozo Thiago M. , Nascimento Marco A. C.
Published: June 2017

Metastable doubly charged diatomics are the result of polarization-aided covalent bonding surpassing Coulomb electrostatic repulsion.
The effect of an external magnetic field on the dealloying process of the Ni–Al alloy in alkaline solution
Authors: Zhang Haixia , Wang Zhifeng , Yang Mingzhu , Deng Qibo
Published: June 2017

The dealloying process of the Ni–Al alloy is influenced by an external magnetic field and a finer morphology of nanoporous Ni is achieved.
Characterization of the thermal/thermal oxidative stability of fluorinated graphene with various structures
Authors: Lai Wenchuan , Xu Dazhou , Wang Xu , Wang Zaoming , Liu Yang , Zhang Xiaojiao , Liu Xiangyang
Published: June 2017

The thermal/thermal oxidative stability of various fluorinated graphene depends on the differences in their corresponding C–F bonds, CFn defects and spin centers on the nanosheets.
Nuclear inelastic scattering and density functional theory studies of a one-dimensional spin crossover [Fe(1,2,4-triazole)2(1,2,4-triazolato)](BF4) molecular chain
Authors: Jenni Kevin , Scherthan Lena , Faus Isabelle , Marx Jennifer , Strohm Cornelius , Herlitschke Marcus , Wille Hans-Christian , Würtz Peter , Schünemann Volker , Wolny Juliusz A.
Published: June 2017

NIS experiments display the vibrational dynamics of the low- and high-spin states of the 1D spin crossover compound [Fe(trzH)2(trz)](BF4) (1).
The transition metal surface dependent methane decomposition in graphene chemical vapor deposition growth
Authors: Wang Xinlan , Yuan Qinghong , Li Jia , Ding Feng
Published: June 2017

The catalytic activities of various catalysts are found to be responsible for the shape evolution of graphene domains during CVD growth.
Cross-dehydrogenative coupling and oxidative-amination reactions of ethers and alcohols with aromatics and heteroaromatics
Authors: Lakshman Mahesh K. , Vuram Prasanna K.
Published: June 2017

This is a perspective on cross-dehydrogenative coupling reactions of aromatic and heteroaromatic systems with ethers and alcohols via metal or organic catalysis, and through uncatalyzed means, leading to C–C and C–N bond formation.
Prevalence of Multidrug Resistant Bacteria in Refugees: A Prospective Case Control Study in an Obstetric Cohort
Authors: Oelmeier de Murcia Kathrin , Glatz Birgit , Willems Stephanie , Kossow Annelene , Strobel Marlit , Stühmer Bianca , Schaumburg Frieder , Mellmann Alexander , Kipp Frank , Schmitz Ralf , Möllers Mareike
Published: June 2017

Purpose To determine the prevalence of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria in a cohort of pregnant refugee women.

Methods In a prospective case control study, surveillance cultures for MDR bacteria (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA], vancomycin-resistant enterococci [VRE], MDR Gram-negative bacteria [MRGN]) were analysed between October 2015 and June 2016 from a cohort of 50 pregnant refugee women and 50 resident controls in the obstetric unit of a German tertiary referral hospital.

Results Prevalence of MRSA was noticeably higher among refugee women compared to residents (6 vs. 0%). In addition, a trend towards a higher prevalence of VRE and MDR Gram-negative bacteria in refugees was shown (1.8 vs. 0%).

Conclusions Due to the higher prevalence of MDR bacteria, surveillance cultures are justified in order to prevent nosocomial spread of MDR bacteria.
Gapless states in microwave artificial graphene
Authors: Dautova Yulia N. , Shytov Andrey V. , Hooper Ian R. , Sambles J. Roy , Hibbins Alastair P.
Published: June 2017

A microwave analogue of graphene comprised of cylindrical metallic rods arranged in a honeycomb array is fabricated. Dispersion curves of the bound electromagnetic eigenmodes of the system were experimentally determined by measuring the electric near-fields just above the surface. Two linear crossings are evident in these dispersion curves at each of the K and K′ points of the Brillouin zone, mimicking the well-celebrated Dirac cones in graphene.
Channel interference in multiphoton absorption
Authors: Alam Md. Mehboob , Beerepoot Maarten T. P. , Ruud Kenneth
Published: June 2017

We extend the theory of channel interference to higher-order multiphoton absorption processes. We derive an explicit expression for channel interference in a three-photon absorption process and propose a general scheme for deriving such expressions for multiphoton absorption processes of any order. Based on this general scheme, we derive and analyze the simplest few-state models for multiphoton absorption in centrosymmetric molecules and discuss the criteria for maximizing the corresponding multiphoton absorption strengths.
Editorial cartoons and ART
Authors: Groarke Leo
Published: June 2017

Though they are often ignored in serious scholarship, editorial cartoons are an important vehicle for multimodal arguing. The present chapter outlines an “ART” approach to editorial cartoons which is rooted in contemporary argumentation theory. A series of examples are used to show how cartoons can be analyzed as instances of argument. To illustrate the significance of particular cartoon motifs, the chapter focuses on cartoons that depict political figures as Pinocchio – the magical wooden puppet in Carlo Collodi’s renowned children’s novel. In a number of ways, these cartoons challenge traditional assumptions that characterize conventional accounts of argument – among them, the common claim that pictures cannot negate.
Arguing with illustrations
Authors: Dove Ian J.
Published: June 2017

In the absence of explicit and obvious assessment criteria for visual arguments, every such argument depends upon unique (and sometimes, reinvented) desiderata to do this work. This chapter considers the applications of, and modifications to, argumentation schemes – specifically, argument from analogy and argument from appearance – as a way of giving explicit criteria for visual argument assessment. The centerpiece of this account is a case study on an early debate in archaeology regarding the proper placement of Australopithecus africanus in the lineage of human ancestors. Participants in (and later analysts of) the debate appealed to competing illustrations and reconstructions of A. africanus in support of the rival hypotheses. Both argument from analogy and argument from appearance are relevant to the assessment of the debate. However, neither argumentation scheme is a perfect fit. Rather, a contrastivist account of comparison augments these schemes, which allows for a better analysis and evaluation of the actual argumentation.
Seeing the untold
Authors: Wildfeuer Janina , Pollaroli Chiara
Published: June 2017

This chapter considers movie trailers as a specific type of multimodal argumentative discourse and asks for their rhetorical and promotional structure. By applying a formal-logical as well as an argumentative perspective combining Pragma-Dialectics and the Argumentum Model of Topics, it aims at a reconstruction of the logical units that guide the viewer’s imagination and hypothesis-making about the story of the promoted film. On this basis, the combined approach makes it possible to reconstruct the standpoint and multimodal arguments of the example movie trailer of the film Gravity.
The Importance of Consultation in Supporting Bereaved Students
Authors: Roth Jeffrey C.
Published: June 2017

This chapter describes how models, concepts, and skills of consultation play an important role in supporting bereaved students. Consultation by school-based mental health providers is emphasized as a means of developing the knowledge and skills of teachers, administrators, staff, peers, and family caregivers to foster resilience and build capacity for early intervention, coping, and recovery through problem-solving processes and systems-level interventions. The availability of and access to consultation is examined. Such consultation can include indirect service to school and family caregivers, workshops and training modules with consultative follow-up, and use of the Internet and online interactive communities. Ways to overcome barriers are explored, including systems-level approaches that create opportunities for primary prevention and universal interventions that can reach many students and expand the capacity to support mental health.
Understanding the Emotional Disorders
Authors: Watson David , O'Hara Michael W.
Published: June 2017

Understanding the Emotional Disorders: A Symptom-Based Approach examines replicable symptom dimensions contained within five adjacent diagnostic classes in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: depressive disorders, bipolar and related disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, and trauma- and stressor-related disorders. It reviews several problems and limitations associated with traditional, diagnosis-based approaches to studying psychopathology, and it establishes the theoretical and clinical value of analyzing specific types of symptoms within the emotional disorders. It demonstrates that several of these disorders—most notably, major depression, bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder—contain multiple symptom dimensions that clearly can be differentiated from one another. Moreover, these symptom dimensions are highly robust and generalizable and can be identified in multiple types of data, including self-ratings, semistructured interviews, and clinicians’ ratings. Furthermore, individual symptom dimensions often have strikingly different correlates, such as varying levels of criterion validity and diagnostic specificity. It concludes with the development of a more comprehensive, symptom-based model that subsumes various forms of psychopathology—including sleep disturbances, eating- and weight-related problems, personality pathology, psychosis/thought disorder, and hypochondriasis—beyond the emotional disorders.
The Search for Perpetual Motion: Fatigue, Friction, and Drag in Quality Improvement
Authors: Cumbler Ethan , Pierce Read
Published: June 2017

Most people who have worked on continuous quality improvement (QI) with teams in the clinical microsystem have experienced “change fatigue.” Application of the “Limit-to-Growth” system archetype to QI teams within health care can be used to understand negative feedback loops generated by successful QI that can limit future progress. Awareness of these factors can result in actions designed to reduce drag on forward momentum. Leaders in health care QI can anticipate and minimize negative feedback loops that accumulate to slow subsequent progress of highly functioning improvement teams within clinical microsystems.
Implementation of Practice Transformation: Patient Experience According to Practice Leaders
Authors: Quigley Denise D. , Palimaru Alina I. , Chen Alex Y. , Hays Ron D.
Published: June 2017

Objective:

Examine practice leaders' perceptions and experiences of how patient-centered medical home (PCMH) transformation improves patient experience.

Subjects:

Thirty-six interviews with lead physicians (n = 13), site clinic administrators (n = 13), and nurse supervisors (n = 10).

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews at 14 primary care practices within a large urban Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) delivery system to identify critical patient experience domains and mechanisms of change. Identified patient experience domains were compared with Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) items.

Results:

We identified 28 patient experience domains improved by PCMH transformation, of which 22 are measured by CAHPS, and identified 24 mechanisms of change commonly reported by practice leaders during PCMH transformation.

Conclusions:

PCMH practice transformation can improve patient experience. Most patient experience domains reported as improved during PCMH efforts are measured by CAHPS items. Practices would benefit from collecting specific information on staff behaviors related to teamwork, team-based communication, scheduling, emergency and inpatient follow-up, and referrals. All 3 types of practice leaders reported 4 main mechanisms of PCMH change that improved patient experience. Our findings provide guidance for practice leaders on which strategies of PCMH practice transformation lead to specific improvements in patient experience measures. Further research is needed on the relationship between PCMH changes and changes in CAHPS patient experience scores.