bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P01-381 - A Model of Manic Thought Disorder Using a Semantic Network and Disordered Thread Salience
Authors: Arun C.P.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Manic Thought Disorder (MTD) is a characteristic clinical feature of mania. In the past, explanations of its pathogenesis have ranged from hypotheses of a disordered lexicon, to the side effects of a fatuous affect. We previously modeled thought disorder in schizophrenia using the notion of threads of thought.

Objectives

To examine the nature of MTD to see if it is consistent with the theory of a disordered lexicon alone.

Aims

To simulate the mental lexicon and thought generation and examine if computational lesioning experiments could simulate various aspects of MTD.

Methods

We modeled the mental lexicon as a semantic network using the programming language Mathematica®. Thought generation was modeled as a walk along this directed graph. Semantic priming was implemented as assigned weights; these weights in turn determined assignment of salience to threads scanning the network.

Results

Assignment of weights to the vertices and/or edges of the graph allows us to simulate the flow and trajectory of speech permitting the replication of features of MTD including pressure of speech, clang associations and flight-of-ideas.

Conclusions

Our model of MTD allows us to propose that thought disorder in mania occurs due to an inappropriate assignment of salience to threads scanning the semantic network. Reduction of inappropriate thread salience by antipsychotics must result in a disappearance of MTD. While MTD is interesting to listen to, for anyone, it betrays the underlying mental computational processes involved in the generation of normal thought and MTD and hence very important for psychiatrists and cognitive scientists.
P01-388 - Individual Approach to Success Psychopharmacotherapy in Patients with Delusional Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Authors: Grahovac T. , Pavešić- Radonja A. , Rončević-Gržeta I. , Ružić K.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Delusional disorder is characterized in current classifications by the development of one delusional thought or set of related delusional ideas that are usually permanent. Body dysmorphic disorder is sick preoccupation with appearance of the whole body or focused on particular areas of body, when the patient is convinced that there is a change of shape, structure or function.

Objectives

We will present 36-year old patient who was sent to a psychiatry recommended by the otorinolaringology specialist, where he was treated three years for sore throat. The patient was very focused and concerned about the problems of the target organ.

Aim

Correct diagnosis is very important for choosing adequate therapy.

Methods

clinical interview, psychologic testing, EEG egzam.

Results

He was treated with different combinations of drugs, but the combined therapy showed that the most effective were quetiapin, venlafaksin and valproat acid.

Conclusion

Individual access and knowledge of the pathophysiological background of patients with delusional body dysmorphic disorder is of great importance in choosing psycho pharmacotherapy.
P01-390 - Systematic Parametric Assessment of Attentional Functions Based on the Theory of Visual Attention II - Discriminating Malingerers from ADHD Patients
Authors: Krupp V. , Hennig-Fast K. , Schwarzkopf W. , Müller H.J. , Finke K.
Published: June 2010

In recent years the amount of adults claiming to have a neuropsychological disorder increased dramatically, raising the suspicion that some of them may malinger symptoms for secondary gain, such as receiving compensation or drugs. Hence, valid diagnostic tools in the assessment of neuropsychiatric conditions are of great interest. In our experiment, we investigated whether adults feigning symptoms of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be successfully detected by an assessment based on the ‘theory of visual attention’, namely TVA

[Bundesen, C. (1990). A theory of visual attention. Psychological Review 97, 523-547]. Therefore, we provided healthy adults with information about ADHD (available on the internet) and instructed them to feign symptoms on self-report scales, as well as on the whole report of TVA, which provides an quantitative, parametric measure of the affected and preserved attentional functions of ADHD adults. Our results show that malingerers were indeed able to feign symptoms on the conventional questionnaires, but not capable of imitating the specific response pattern on the whole report of TVA that ADHD patients show. We found a sensitivity of 80 % and a specificity of 93 % for the whole report of TVA. Beyond the detection of adults malingering ADHD, TVA may also help to identify adults feigning symptoms of other neuropsychological disorders.
P01-393 - Probability in Medicine and in Psychiatry - in the Light of Immanuel Kant's Philosophy
Authors: Mäser O.
Published: June 2010

Probability is just as relevant in psychiatry as it is in medicine; the great difference lies in its significance.

Through reference to Immanuel Kant's knowledge, this significance, and the ensuing consequences, are discussed in view of scientific psychiatric studies and pending revision of the psychiatric categories of the ICD-10 for the ICD-11 classification.

Most medical diagnoses are based on signs and symptoms.

Psychiatric diagnoses are based on phenomena and symptoms, as are certain other medical diagnoses.

Psychiatric diagnoses provide the foundation for scientific study and lead to philosophical probability, which Immanuel Kant called “philosophische Wahrscheinlichkeit” in German.

Medical Diagnoses, being based on objective signs, which refer to real objects, objects in an absolute sense, lead instead to mathematical probability, “mathematische Wahrscheinlichkeit” in German.

The difference between philosophical and mathematical probability will be shown through reference to Kant's works.

Knowledge based on mathematical probability commands greater authority than knowledge based on philosophical probability, as a comparison of the value ot two studies would demonstrate: one study naming the diagnosis luetic encephalitis, based on objective signs, and one study with the former diagnosis progressive paralysis, based on phenomena and symptoms.

This knowledge difference reflects, for example, continuing psychiatric research to find physical parameters for the mental disorder we call schizophrenia.
P01-395 - Stability Over Time of Diagnoses in a Clinical Population of a Psychiatric Clinic. Preliminary Findings
Authors: Ntoumanis A. , Voutsinos A. , Ioannou A. , Kondylis I. , Tsoura A. , Lavrentiadis G. , Giouzepas I. , Garyfallos G.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Stability of psychiatric disorders has increased with the introduction of DSM-III and ICD-9 criteria. A scrutiny of these claims is important so as to ascertain possible disease co-morbidity or fluctuation of symptoms over time.

Objectives

To evaluate the long-term stability of psychiatric diagnoses given in first-time patients of an Acute Mental Ward of a Psychiatric clinic.

Methods

We reviewed a total of 918 patients who received psychiatric care in the Acute Mental Ward of our Clinic from 2004 to 2009.

Results

As expected, results varied according to how many years have elapsed since the initial admission. The highest number of readmissions was in the 2004 group, with 61 patients out of 194 being readmitted since then and 20 of those having their initial diagnoses changed in some way. Stability of diagnosis in broad diagnostic categories (psychotic disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse) was generally high. Changes in diagnoses between admissions were mostly in cases with suspected bipolarity of affect, dual diagnosis in Axis I (severe mental illness concurrent with substance abuse) and/or personality disorders in Axis II.

Conclusions

The temporal consistency of mental disorders was moderate. Although initial and subsequent diagnoses tended to remain within the broad diagnostic category, cases with lability of mood, personality disorders, and those receiving dual diagnoses were problematic. The relative stability of diagnoses in the psychotic spectrum is most likely due to them being inpatients. The high number of re-admissions and subsequent changes in diagnosis necessitates further study.
P01-400 - Complementary and Necessary Role of Developmental Psychopathology to that of Medical Model Based Descriptive Psychopathology
Authors: Santosh Kumar K.M. , Pradhan S.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Management of mentally unwell people and understanding of mental disorder in general has swung from the earlier, Meyer-ian (DSM founder) developmental approaches to the more commonly practised medical/disease model of the mind rooted in the quest for “hard” evidence in macro and micro level changes.

Sadly, it is made out that these two schools are at conflict, or at best exist in dialectic with each other and that one needs to be practised at the expense of the other. This belief is extended to assessment and management of risk to self and harm to others (bio-psycho-social approach mainly receiving a lip service), which is one of the primary outcome measures in psychiatry.

The training in cure-oriented model of medicine is in contrast to the bread and butter of what a psychiatrist deals within a day to day setting: recovery and rehabilitation of chronic remitting and relapsing illnesses. The psychiatrist thus left with an armoury of descriptive based approaches to deal with behaviour patterns that are seemingly irrational and leading to serious outcomes such as suicide and harm to others.

Highly specific interest in the nature/form of illness has ironically led to the sacrifice of sensitivity of the person's story, which brought the patient to us in the first place.

Conclusion

We suggest that in addition to “routine case management” the risk that patients present to self and others becomes comprehensive and an interesting exercise, leading to better outcomes for both patients and their guardians by marrying the two approaches.
P01-402 - Running Towards a Different Life: a Case of Dissociative Fugue
Authors: Santos M. , Gago E.
Published: June 2010

The word fugue derives from the Latin word for flight— fugere. Dissociative fugue is a rare condition in which a person suddenly travels far from home or customary place of work, with inability to recall the past. The prevalence of this disorder as been estimated at 0.2%, and fugue behaviors are frequent in persons with dissociative identity disorder. Episodes of dissociative fugue are usually associated with severe stress or trauma, such as war, natural disasters, death of a loved one or unbearable pressures at work or home. Patients show signs of amnesia and have no conscious understanding of the reason for the flight. This is usually accompanied by confusion about personal identity and, in rare cases, partial or complete assumption of a new identity. The travels associated with the condition can last for a few hours or for as long as several months. There are descriptions of patients that have traveled thousands of miles from home while in a state of dissociative fugue. The symptoms cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Typically an accurate diagnosis is made only after the fugue is over and the person has been brought to the attention of mental health care providers. The authors present the clinical report of a 55-year-old woman, with no prior psychiatric history, that presented as a case of dissociative fugue related to continuous and intense stress at work.
P02-07 - Acute Confusional State in Patient with Anthrax Sepsis - Case Report
Authors: Delic A. , Arnautalic A. , Dostovic Z. , Avdibegovic E.
Published: June 2010

This paper illustrates a case of acute confusional state in patient with anthrax sepsis who has been previously diagnosed as being suspect to delirium tremens and phlegmona antebrachii lateris dextri by the emergency physician, then referred to the Intensive Care Unit of the Department of Psychiatry Tuzla in June 2002. Upon the admission, due to unclear clinical picture and a lack of heteroanmnestic data the patient was subject to an extended diagnostic procedure, and diagnosed with an acute confusional state in anthrax sepsis referred to the Department for Infectious Diseases for further treatment. In introduction that consists of usual history information, the authors give a brief description of acute confusional state in anthrax sepsis and their own experience in diagnostic evaluation and treatment of this complex clinical syndrome. Diagnostic criteria used are DSM-IV and I WATCH DEATH mnemonic.
P02-18 - Systematic Review: Chlorpromazine for Psychosis Induced Aggression or Agitation
Authors: Ahmed U. , Jones H. , Adams C.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To examine the effects of chlorpromazine for psychosis-induced aggression or agitation.

Method

We searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group Trials Register (2008) for randomised control trials or double blind trials implying randomisation, comparing chlorpromazine with another drug or placebo for people thought to be acutely aggressive due to psychotic illness. For selected studies we extracted data and calculated relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) on an intention-to-treat basis, based on a fixed-effects model.

Results

118 studies were identified, two met inclusion criteria. One compared oral chlorpromazine with oral thioridazine and one intramuscular chlorpromazine with intramuscular haloperidol.Those allocated chlorpromazine did not remain on medication (RR 2.00 CI 0.94 to 4.26), or stay in hospital (RR 1.87 CI 0.70 to 4.95) longer than those allocated thioridazine. No differences were found for adverse effects.Those allocated chlorpromazine were no more likely to have one (RR 3.00 CI 0.13 to 68.26), 2-4 (RR 0.90 CI 0.52 to 1.55) or 5+ (RR 0.75 CI 0.20 to 2.79) injections than those allocated haloperidol. Two patients allocated chlorpromazine had, serious hypotension (RR 5.00 CI 0.26 to 96.13), one developed status epilepticus (RR 3.00 CI 0.13 to 68.26), no one allocated haloperidol had these effects

Conclusion

Overall the quality of evidence is limited and dated. Chlorpromazine was just as effective as similar medicines, but it may be associated with more side effects. Where better, more evaluated drugs are available it may be best to avoid using chlorpromazine. Carefully designed clinical trials are urgently needed.
P02-26 - Attention to Patients with Eating Disorders in a Mental Health Center: a Descriptive Study
Authors: Campos Mangas M.C. , Ruiz Feliu M.A.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

The eating disorders are a group of complex psychiatric disorders, severe and frequent medical complications.

symptoms occur along a continuum between the extremes of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. so, we found that more than half of patients develop anorexic and bulimic symptoms that many bulimic patients have a history of anorexia.

Objectives

We analyzed sociodemographic and clinical variables of a sample of patients attending our clinic within the study period from January to September 2009.

Methods

We performed a retrospective descriptive study with data collected from the medical records of 42 patients treated in our mental health center within the study period, who met diagnostic criteria for eating disorders.

Results

Regarding the demographics variables, most of the sample are women (96%), average age 23.5 years, single marital status (54.8%), from middle class (74.1%).

in relation to family history, 53.8% in any family member with pathologies, where mothers have the highest percentage. in personal ancedentes, we found that 35% had childhood obesity and anorexia in 14% of children.

the average age of disease onset was 15.6 years. 66.8% of the sample had had bulimic behavior and the majority (92%) compensatory behaviors.

Conclusions

The eating disorders are a group of chronic and severe. data analysis of our sample showed a profile similar to those provided by epidemiological studies: most women, single, between 10 and 25 years, middle class. Have symptoms frequently comorbid anxiety and depression.
P02-30 - Current Trends in Nonmedical Use of Prescription Extended-release Amphetamines and Methylphenidate
Authors: Lindholm A. , Varughese S. , Sembower M.A. , Shiffman S. , Schnoll S.H. , Ertischek M.D. , St. Jean E. , Rosen S.
Published: June 2010

Objective

To examine rates of nonmedical use (NMU) of prescription extended-release (ER) amphetamines and ER methylphenidate, relative to availability.

Methods

Prescribing data were acquired from IMS Health. Data relevant to ER amphetamine and ER methylphenidate were collected from two studies in the RADARS® (Researched Abuse, Diversion and Addiction-Related Surveillance) System (Q3 2007-Q2 2009). First, the Drug Diversion System provides a law enforcement perspective based on surveys of diversion investigators throughout the US. Second, the Poison Center System provides data on exposures to prescription drugs based on spontaneous calls. RADARS System data are presented as rates per 1,000 Unique Recipients of Dispensed Drug (URDD) to account for drug availability.

Results

From July 2007-June 2009, 18,315,404 prescriptions were filled for ER amphetamines, 26,674,152 for ER methylphenidate. RADARS System Drug Diversion trends nearly overlap for ER amphetamine and ER methylphenidate, relative to URDD (running average of 0.042 vs. 0.024 drug diversion reports per 1,000 URDD). Similarly, trends in RADARS System Poison Center calls are generally similar for ER amphetamine and ER methylphenidate, although ER amphetamine trends slightly lower (running average of 0.15 vs. 0.22 intentional exposures per 1,000 URDD).

Conclusions

Trends from the US RADARS System, which controls for utilization rates, suggest diversion and poison center call rates are similar for ER amphetamine and ER methylphenidate.

Supported by funding from Shire Development Inc.
P02-53 - Isdiminished Responsibility Relevant? Expiriences in Macedonia
Authors: Danevski G.
Published: June 2010

Is Deminished Responsibility (diminished Capacity) relevant today? Are those jurisdictions that have abolished this defense harsh and unreasonable?

Diminished Responsibility occurs when person commits a unlawful homicide and are suffering from a serious and recognized psychiatric disorder (with the exeption of personality disorder) which is of a temporary nature but may be one episode in a chronic illness and the offence occurs as a result of this psychiatric disorder. There has tobe concomitant serious impairment of cognition and/or judgment and/or affect at the time of the offence due to the psychiatric disorder which led to strong and substantial reduction of responsibility and culpability. Personality disorder by itself is not enough and must have other serious and recognized psychiatric disorder as well. If the Jury is convinced that all these conditions are met on the balance of probabilitics then the charge of murder is to be reduced to manslaughter. I would foresse that the reverse onus of proof should stay and that it would be up to the defendant to prove that he was impaired at the time of the offence then for the prosecution to displace this defence (once it is set up by the defendant) beyond reasonable doubt.
P02-56 - Child Pornography as a Risk Factor for Hands on Sex-offending?
Authors: Endrass J. , Rossegger A.
Published: June 2010

Whether consumers of child pornography pose a risk for hands-on sex offenses is debated. Very few studies have analyzed the association between the consumption of child pornography and the subsequent perpetration of hands-on sex offenses. Using the data of a longitudinal study of 231 male child pornography users, we examined the recidivism rates for hands-on and hands-off sex offenses after a 6 year follow-up period. The Criminal history, as well as recidivism, was assessed using the criminal records from 2008.

4.8% (n = 11) of the study sample had a prior conviction for a sexual and/or violent offense, 1% (n = 2) for a hands-on sex offense, involving child sexual abuse, 3.3% (n = 8) for a hands-off sex offense and one for a nonsexual violent offense. When applying a broad definition of recidivism, which included ongoing investigations, charges and convictions, 3% (n = 7) of the study sample recidivated with a violent and/or sex offense, 3.9% (n = 9) with a hands-off sex offense and 0.8% (n = 2) with a hands-on sex offense.

These data suggest, that consuming child pornography alone is not a risk factor for committing hands-on sex offenses - at least not for those subjects who had never committed a hands-on sex offense. The majority of the investigated consumers had no previous convictions for hands-on sex offenses. For those offenders, the prognosis for hands-on sex offenses, as well as for recidivism with child pornography, is favorable.
P02-69 - Social and Clinical Characteristics Convicted Mentally Ill Males and Females, Which are Needed Inpatient Treatment
Authors: Malkin D.
Published: June 2010

In aim to give a more precise definition dynamic treats of mental disorders in convicted population, criteria of their penitentiary legal capacity 160 subjects were examined. Participants were 73,2% males, and 26,8% females.

The revealed unique features of the inmates reflect general tendency of increasing the number of marginal persons in the institutions of confinement. They were: low parental family status, drug abuse heredity loading, insufficient education level, limited professional skills, releasing from statuary service commitment, negative interpersonal and employment history.

Specific features of female mentally ill inmates were the following: commitment due to offenders against persons, adolescence and early adulthood age, correspondingly commitment and psychiatric treatment at first time, the country side residence, psychiatric heredity loading, and repeated auto aggressive acts. They demonstrated desadaptation in the institutions of confinement, aggressiveness to others inmates and the stаff members, scratching and attempts of suffocation. The last one was the reason for hospitalization. Moreover, they were needed in long term treatment. Prevalence of personality and non psychotic disorders were registered.

Different features were specific for the male sample. Among them - institution of criminal proceedings against property, history of long-term commitment, recidivism and reiterated involvement in criminal proceedings and correctional units, city residence, low status in criminal subculture, scratching and declaration go on hunger strike, practice blackmail and opposite behavior against administration of state penitentiary. They have often resorted to psychiatrists, and were needed in repeated hospitalizations. Brain damages, prevalence of internal symptoms in psychogenic disorders and psychotic states.
P02-72 - Clinical Assessment of Competence to Consent to Sexual Activity in Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenic Spectrum Disorders. A Preliminary Study
Authors: Mandarelli G. , Zangaro S. , Azzoni A. , Raja M. , Tatarelli R. , Ferracuti S.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To develop a clinician-oriented semi-structured interview for the assessment of sexual consent: the Sexual Consent Competency Assessment Scale (SCAS). To assess sexual consent competence in a sample of hospitalized patients, affected by bipolar disorder (BD) and schizophrenic spectrum disorders (SSD, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder).

Methods

Patients were recruited at the Psychiatric ward of S. Spirito Hospital, Rome and diagnosed according to DSM-IV-TR criteria. The SCAS items were derived and adapted from Kennedy et al. (Am J Ment Retard 2001;106:503-510). The scale items were directly rated by 2 independent clinicians, on a 3-point Likert Scale corresponding to 3 possible outcomes: capable, marginally capable or incapable. Internal consistency, test-retest and inter rater-reliability were good. Principal component factor analysis (PCA) with varimax rotation was applied.

Results

Fifty-four BD patients (51.9% females) and 31 SSD patients (71.0% females) were recruited (mean age, years: 38.1±13.4; 38.4±9.7 respectively; p=0.91). BD patients had better sexual consent competence compared to SSD, there were no gender differences. Cognitive functioning as measured by the Raven Progressive Matrices appeared to moderate the relationship between diagnostic group and sexual consent decisional capacity, with better scores corresponding to higher competence. PCA revealed two interpretable factors 1) cognitive-emotional and 2) consequences-prevention. There were no significant group differences between BP and SSD in the second factor.

Conclusion

The SCAS proved good psychometric validity and reliability. Patients with bipolar disorder showed better sexual consent competence compared to schizophrenic spectrum disorders.
P02-73 - Stress and Mental Health in Criminals Serving a Sentence in Prison and Serving Another Alternative Punishment: a Comparative Study
Authors: Musavi S.A. , Rahimnia M. , Ebrahimzadeh M.
Published: June 2010

Aims

To compare stress and mental health in criminals serving a sentence in prison and serving an alternative punishment.

Method

120 offenders were randomly selected (60 in prison (imprisoned group=IG), 60 undergoing an alternative punishment (Not Imprisoned Group=NIG)), and were assessed using SCL90-R and Coudron's Stress Scale.

Results

All of 9 Symptom Scales of SCL90-R and levels of stress in the Stress Inventory were significantly higher in IG than NIG.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that other alternatives for prison (fines, punishment suspension, deprivation of social rights, restricted liberty…) have the advantage of better mental health and less stress experience by convicts; factors crucial for the criminals’ rehabilitation and social adjustment.
P02-75 - Risk and Harm Assessment Tools: is it a Full Circle?
Authors: Santosh Kumar K.M. , Pradhan S.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Psychiatric patients have a rather infamous, albeit widely publicised distinction of causing harm to themselves: at times leading to suicide and equally worryingly for society: harm to others occasionally leading to homicide.

There is a collateral knock-on distress, aside of incremental cost effects to various members of society, inclusive of both parties. These acts resulting in harm are termed “irrational”, “mad”, “and dangerous” and were deemed predictable. No doubt, improved psychotropic medications, evolving teams with greater responsibilities and incorporating ever improving psychological therapies have improved delivery of high quality care to our patients.However, the quest for a standardised, valid, generalisable, user friendly risk tool remains elusive, albeit increasingly improving, or is it?

Psychiatrists now more than ever are tasked with the challenge of assessing, managing and preventing if not predicting such harm and to aid seamless recovery and rehabilitation into society and thereof.

Risk assessment has gone through four generations of tools/ methods. All have their merits and areas that can be improved upon. Significantly, all emphasise a time limited and context driven assessment rather than one off documents. Each method has its place and time and contribute not only to effective risk management but also to recovery oriented treatments and facilitating, monitoring and supervising optimal rehabilitation needs of psychiatric patients.

Conclusion

In this poster we follow the journey of risk assessment tools ranging from the “unstructured/clinician based” to START (Short Term Assessment of Risk and Treatability), pondering if we have now come full circle?
P02-79 - Community Forensic Mental Health Service, Hertfordshire- Referrals and Response Audit
Authors: Sharma J.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Community forensic mental health teams are a new service within the widening range of specialized community services, providing an interface between Generic and Forensic Services. Few teams have been set up in the UK, and many have been developed without a pilot scheme. The service in Hertfordshire was established in 2004, with no previous audits or reports done to evaluate the working of this team.

Objectives

This work aims to ascertain and evaluate the role of this service, comparing with standards formulated in accordance to guidelines set by Clinical Governance bodies such as NICE, DoH, FR&D, Sainsbury Centre, following principles outlined in the Reed Report. It also identifies gaps in the service and recommends implementing changes to improve clinical effectiveness.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to outline the characteristics of a community forensic service. Referrals over 12 months from July 2007 until July 2008 were analysed to look into the number, source, appropriateness, acceptance, response time and response methods. Data collection involved review of notes including meeting minutes, computerised notes and patient file. Information was recorded against a question template. Analyses are represented with use of graphs.

Results

indicated the number of referrals and the quality of response from the team.

Conclusions

Service gaps were identified, and recommendations were made to implement proposed changes. The completion of the Audit cycle which is due in December this year will add to the evidence base which can then guide development of newer teams or improvement in functioning of existing teams.
P02-80 - Steroid Hormones in Patients with Personality Disorders in Conditions of Social Isolation
Authors: Stoyak V. , Ivanova S. , Bokhan N. , Gusev S.
Published: June 2010

According to literature data, steroid hormones are involved in developments of various behavior deviations.

Objective

The research aims to investigate the steroid hormones level alterations among subjects with personality disorders in conditions of social isolation.

Material and methods

Serum levels of cortisol, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate were measured in 58 males with personality disorders (convicted of murder) and in 49 physically and mentally healthy males (convicted of property crimes) being in conditions of social isolation. The control group consisted of 30 physically and mentally healthy males. The hormone serum levels were measured by ELISA method.

Results

In comparison with the control group the increase of cortisol, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone concentration in patients in conditions of social isolation have been observed. Concentration of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in the investigated groups did not differ from the control group.

Patients with personality disorders have shown a trend toward cortisol, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone level increase as compared with physically and mentally healthy males convicted of property crimes. Concentration of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in the investigated groups did not differ from the control group.

No correlations between steroid hormones levels and time spent in conditions of social isolation have been observed

Conclusions

Increase of cortisol, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone level is associated with criminal behavior, but also it might be a consequence of influence of the factor of social isolation.
P02-83 - Assessment of Young People Committing Sexual Crimes of Pedofilic Origin
Authors: Zaitsev O. , Shum S.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

We assessed 29 young persons (14-21 years old), who committed crimes according to article 156 of Criminal Code of Ukraine «Depravity of Minors».

Methods

Assessment tools: surveillance, clinical and diagnostic interview, objective psychometric scales and test methods to identify the studied trait.

Results

Established 11 youth with developmental delay [5 with mild developmental delay - F70 (17.2%), 3 with moderate (10.3%), and 3 with severe (10.3%)], 12 with behavioral disturbances [2 - F91.0 (6.9%), 4 - F91.1 (13.8%), 5 - F91.2 (17.2%), 1 - F91.3 (3.4%)], 6 - were found to be mentally healthy (20.7%). Sexual benefit of committed crime (importance of satisfaction of sexual desire or relief of sexual arousal) confirmed only in 7 youth (24.1%). Most of them were mentally intact (5; 17.2%) and belonged to an older adolescent group (19-21 years). Remaining participants, who were developmentally delayed, called curiosity and desire of knowledge of sexual differences of another sex, as their most important motives for crime. Another group, juveniles with behavioral disturbances, cited physical humiliation or ritualistic punishment (particularly these were seen in oral-genital encounters) of their victims as rationale. In this group there were frequent cases of group rape, as opposed to first group where sexual encounters have been mostly individual. In the meantime the most deprived character of sexual relation was noted among mentally healthy minors.

Conclusions

None of the assessed has shown signs of diagnosis G1-G3. Diagnosis of F65.4 has been completely excluded despite the potential of some negative prognosis in future.
P02-100 - Patient Follow-up and Readmission in the Psychiatric Ward of a General Hospital
Authors: Marini E. , Kouroumalos N. , Tassakopoulou D. , Marketos N. , Sakkas D.
Published: June 2010

Background

Study focuses on the way patients are followed-up after discharge. This aims in determining continuity of follow up and possibly gaining insight in the need of patients for readmission; also, approaching the possible influence of follow-up on patients’ admission-free time interval.

Methods

Sample consists of patients admitted in our department from August 2007 until January 2008. Telephone structured interview was used to gather information. Questions focused on patients’ present follow up state and any re-admissions in a psychiatric ward. Answers were either given directly by patients or by a member of patients’ family. For information to be representative, three calls were made to each patient on different occasions; only then was the answer considered as valid for inclusion in the study.

Results

Of 198 patients admitted, 105 (53%) could be reached.

Of those admitted, mean value of hospitalization time was 21.38 days. Specifically, among re-admitted patients, mean time of first hospitalization was 20.52 days. Among non re-admitted ones respective value was 21.73 days; upon comparison, no statistically significant difference was found (t-test).

Out of 105 reached: 73.3% are still being followed-up, 26.6% are not; 41.55% are followed-up in our outpatient ward whilst 36.3% visit private practices. 3.8% are followed-up at community primary mental health care services. 73.3% have not been readmitted ever since discharge

Conclusions

The majority of patients are followed up at our department's outpatient ward. Patients followed-up at private practices are less whereas much less are followed up at primary psychiatric community care services.
P02-102 - Socio-cultural Determinants of Mental Health of Elderly Immigrants: Lessons Learned from Canada
Authors: Lai D.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

The increase of immigrants in Canada has set an example for Western countries on how cultural diversity affects health, mental health, and needs. The mental health of elderly immigrants, however, is often forgotten in service delivery system.

Objectives

This paper examines the socio-cultural determinants of mental health of elderly immigrants in Canada through synthesizing research findings from various studies. The presentation aims to highlight a few key intervention focuses for addressing mental health of this vulnerable immigrant subgroup.

Methods

Secondary data analysis was used, using three national surveys and a local community survey, including the Ethnic Diversity Survey, the General Social Survey, the Health and Well Being of Older Chinese in Canada, and the Health and Well Being of Older South Asian in Calgary. Mental health was presented by life satisfaction, self-reported stress, self-reported happiness, self-reported level of trust, sense of belonging, feeling out of place, worrying about hate crime, depressive symptoms, and general mental health measured by SF-36.

Results

Socio-cultural determinants related to a higher level of social support, a higher level of trust, and better financial resources were found to be correlates of more positive mental health. Racial discrimination, culture related beliefs, and barriers often led to negative mental health outcomes.

Conclusions

Promoting a better mental health should expand beyond the use of individual interventions and treatments. Socio-cultural determinants have to be addressed through creating a more positive social and structural environment for the elderly immigrants.
P02-107 - Frequent Attenders in an Italian Acute Psychiatric Unit
Authors: Moretti F. , Pedrini E. , Bonafede R. , Bernabei V. , De Ronchi D. , Atti A.R.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To evaluate the features of Frequent-Attenders (FAs) admitted to an Acute Psychiatric Unit of a general hospital in Bologna, Northern Italy.

Methods

Persons admitted between January 2008-June 2009 (N=110) were randomly selected thanks to the Hospital Information System. All participants’ admissions in the indexed period were recorded, the case-history of the first admission was reviewed gathering socio-demographic and clinical information. The International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) was used for diagnosis. FAs were defined for 3 or more admissions within 18 months (Botha et al. 2009).

Results

Almost one out of three patients was a FA (N=34; 30.9%). The mean number of admission for each subject being 5.6±3.4 for an average length of stay of 56.2±62.1 days. In comparison to single users, FAs were more frequently men (67.6% vs. 46.1%; p=0.029), unemployed (79.4% vs. 29.2%; p< 0.001) and living in social-health facilities (29.4% vs. 9.5%; p< 0.024). FAs and common users were not different concerning compulsory/voluntary admission. Schizophrenia and other Psychotic Disorders were predominant among FAs (44.1%), followed by Substance Use and Personality Disorders (14.7%), but no differences were detectable between cases and controls in terms of discharge diagnoses. Conversely, the prevalence of concomitant organic diseases was higher in FAs (50% vs. 27.6%; p=0.020).Finally, the results of the Logistic Regression Model estimating Odds Ratios and 95% Confidence Intervals suggested that FAs had a lower insight/compliance (2.15; 2.50-29.66; p=0.001).

Conclusions

FAs have a higher mental-social disability. A targeted treatment might reduce the frequency of hospitalization.
P02-110 - Psychocorrection of Persons with Crisis and Extreme Situations
Authors: Panchenko O. , Bitchenko I.
Published: June 2010

Research objective - to reveal posttraumatic stress disorders of teenagers who have become by eyewitnesses of emergency; study features of psychoemotional reaction teenagers on psychoinjuring situation.

Objective

56 teenagers (12-13 years old), 34 (60,7%) girls and 22 e (39,3%) boys. From them 28 pupils were eyewitnesses of emergency and 28 persons were made by control group.

Methods

Children's questionnaire of neurosises, a questionnaire depression by Back, a scale of school uneasiness.

Results

Clinically significant indicators are fixed on scales of infringement of behaviour - 6 persons (21,4 %), dream infringements - 3 persons (10,7 %), high level of alarm - 2 persons (7,1 %). Serious posttraumatic stressful frustration and stressful reactions to psychoinjuring event it has not been revealed. Similar control inspection has been spent on the basis of two comprehensive schools, 28 pupils of 7 classes have taken part in it. Clinically significant indicators are fixed on scales: behaviour infringements - 5 persons (17,8%), dream infringements - 3 persons (10,7%), high level of alarm - 1 person (3,5%), Posttraumatic stressful frustration are not revealed. Statistically significant distinctions between indicators control and experimental groups it is not registered (p < 0,05).

Conclusions

During the carried out research we had been established presence of a high threshold of sensitivity to occurring violent certificates and low level of empathy at eyewitnesses on emergency. Similar reaction to situation in this case grows out of influence of features of family education, together with influences of mass-media on mentality of the child.
P02-111 - Estimation of Emotionally-strong-willed Sphere at Patients with Essential Hypertension
Authors: Panchenko O. , Pugach E. , Basarab I. , Simonenko E.
Published: June 2010

Objective of research is study psychological characteristics of patients hipertension disease with presence of psychological semiology, which have a course of group psychocorection therapies and their mastering by skills of self-control.

Objective

90 sick of psychosomatic frustration with essential hypertension (32-48 years old).

Methods

:

1)

MMPI,

2)

Ljusher’s Color test,

3)

Technique of diagnostics of interpersonal relations of Leary,

4)

statistical methods.

Results

At 73 persons (81,1%) the internal conflict caused dissonans of type of interpersonal relations “Authoritarianism-submission”, constant struggle against accruing is hostile-aggressive feeling has been revealed, at the same time there are difficulties of self-affirmation. In 48 cases (53,3%) prevalence I octant in personal pattern positively correlates with characteristics of sthenic type of reaction according to MMPI (profiles type 469-/0) and a method of colour elections (preference of bright colour standards on the first positions, the importance of positions of 4,2 and 3 colours). At 90 persons (100%) from a surveyed contingent high points on VIII octant (11-16) have been revealed, that speaks about hyperresponsibility presence (р ≤ 0,05).

Conclusions

Patients received complex therapy. The psychotherapy was applied individual, group and coordination. During group psychocorrection patients have seized methods of removal of an emotional pressure, intrapersonal conflicts have been resolved, at them the relation to success and failure situations has changed. Carrying out of group trainings at this sick essential hypertension with art therapies, creative visualisation, transaction analysis, and sychorelacsation therapies, is an effective complex of methods in correction and preventive maintenance of infringements in emotionally-strong-willed sphere.
P02-113 - Mental Health and Coping Strategies in Families Caring for Patient with Epilepsy in Iran
Authors: Parsania Z. , Safavi M. , Ahmadi Z.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

A research base should be of mental health and coping strategies in families of having patient with epilepsy, in Iran.

Objective and aim

These families are at increased risk of stress and weakened family relationship, and to identify the variables that have a negative impact on a families and possible moderating influences on them.

Method

This research was a descriptive study on 150 families of epileptics referring to the Iranian Association of Epilepsy Selected Using a Systematic sampling. All subjects were living with the epileptic person, were at least 16, all Iranian and it was at least six month after the beginning of the family’ epileptic members’ illness. For obtaining further information, a questionnaire consisting of three parts was used. The first part indicated the demographic specifications of the patient's family, the second part showed the General Health Questionnaires (GHQ), and the third part indicated stress coping strategies carversheier- weinrub questionnaires.

Results

According to the acquired screen in the total mental health score, the majority of the epileptic patients’ family (56/7%) were not in an appropriate mental health condition. In this report contains depression (56/7%), social functional disorder (52%) somatic signs (61/3%) and anxiety and sleep disorder (6/7%). The majority of under research units based on acquired scores of general stress coping strategies, used this strategies in a medium level.

Conclusion

The result is that if there is more mental health in the family of the epileptic patient, they will use stress coping strategies in more suitable level.
P02-116 - Impact of the Smoking Ban on the Incidence of Adverse Events in Adult Psychiatry Wards on the Wirral
Authors: Flavahan R. , Alam F.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To investigate whether the smoking ban has led to an increase in adverse events in adult psychiatry wards on the Wirral.

Methods

We compared the number of violent incidents reported on the adult psychiatry wards in the 6 months before and after the smoking ban. We also compared the number of emergency detentions (section 5.2 and 5.4 of the mental health act) implemented in the 6 months before and after the smoking ban.

Results

There was a 36% reduction in violent incidents in the 6 months after the smoking ban compared to the 6 months before the ban (70 in the 6 months before the ban and 45 in the 6 months after the ban). There was a 64% reduction in emergency detentions in the 6 months after the smoking ban compared to the 6 months before the ban (25 in the 6 months before the ban and 9 in the 6 months after the ban).The number of admissions during each 6 month period that we looked at were very similar (288 admissions in the 6 months before the ban and 299 in the 6 months after the ban).

Conclusions

Prior to the smoking ban there were concerns that it would lead to an increase in the number of violent events and patients who required emergency detention (under Section 5.2 or Section 5.4 of the Mental Health Act). This study shows that there was a reduction in the incidence of adverse events following the smoking ban.
P02-84 - The Management of Depression in Older Patients with Chronic Diseases by the General Practitioners in England
Authors: Yohannes A.M. , Hann M. , Sibbald B.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Depression is common in older patients with chronic diseases. Untreated depression leads to poor compliance with medical treatment and increases health care utilization.

Aims

We examined the management of depression in patients with COPD, severe osteoarthritis and unspecified symptoms by the general practitioners (GPs).

Methods

We assessed a national sample of general practitioners (n = 3956) in England, the management of depression for chronic diseases using a postal survey with three case vignettes.

Results

864 (22%) completed responses were received (Men = 433, Female = 431). The mean (SD) age was 45.8 (8.47). The percentage of GPs who reported that they would explore the diagnosis of depression for each vignette were 95.4% for COPD, 88.3% for severe osteoarthritis and 86.3% for unspecified symptoms. There is significant difference in the percentage of GPs diagnosing depression more COPD patients compared with severe osteoarthritis and unspecified symptoms

(X2 = 76.6; p < 0.001). GPs that offer a diagnosis of depression for patients with COPD are more likely to prefer a combination of antidepressant drugs and psychological therapy as their first line of treatment F (3.00, 2534) = 2.39, p = 0.06. GPs endorse the importance of routinely screening for depression in patients who have COPD F (3.89, 3349) = 5.03, p < 0.0006 and depression impairs patient's self-management of COPD F (3.95, 3404.36) = 5.28, p < 0.0003.

Conclusions

GPs in England report the importance of screening for depression in patients with chronic diseases. Depression interferes on the self-management of COPD.