bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hallucinations in Kenyan schizophrenic patients
Authors: Ndetei D. M. , Singh A.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT ‐ Eighty Kenyan‘psychotic’patients were screened using the New Haven Schizophrenic Index (NHSI) and were all studied for hallucinations using standardised definitions. Fifty‐one of the patients were NHSI positive and the rest NHSI negative. Sixty‐one percent of the NHSI positive had hallucinations in one or more modalities as compared with 31 % of the NHSI negative group. Of the NHSI positive 51 % had auditory hallucinations directly to the patient, 43 % had visual hallucinations and 25 % had olfactory hallucinations. These results are compared and contrasted with the very few similar observations made elsewhere.
The discontinuance of maintenance neuroleptic therapy in chronic schizophrenic patients: drug and social consequences
Authors: Johnson D. A. W. , Pasterski G. , Ludlow J. M. , Street K. , Taylor R. D. W.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT ‐In a prospective follow‐up the outcome of 60 chronic schizophrenic patients who discontinued neuroleptic therapy after remaining stable 12–48 months was compared with controls continuing medication. Not only did the drug‐discontinued patients have more relapses (P< 0.001), but the form of relapse was both more severe and acute, resulting in differences of self‐injury (P< 0.05), anti‐social behaviour (P< 0.01), inpatient admissions (P< 0.001), and the use of compulsory powers (P< 0.01). In patients who relapsed, both social and work function was affected adversely for some months. Patients who remained relapse‐free without drugs (20%) had a level of work and social function similar to medicated patients. At the end of 18 months the patients who discontinued depot maintenance therapy were found to have been prescribed one‐third more neuroleptic drugs than controls, with a possible increase in the risk of long‐term tardive dyskinesia.
Peptic ulcer complaints in lithium‐treated and non‐lithium‐treated manic‐depressive patients
Authors: Jepsen P. W. , Jensen E. , Pienge P. , Rafaelsen O. J.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT ‐ A possible protective effect of lithium against the occurrence of peptic ulcer complaints in manic‐depressive patients, treated with lithium, was investigated. 167 manic‐depressive patients, 91 in lithium treatment, 76 not in lithium treatment, were questioned about clinical symptoms of peptic ulcer. Thirteen of the lithium‐treated and 23 of the non‐lithium‐treated patients reported symptoms of peptic ulcer. The difference was statistically significant. The hypothesis that lithium treatment reduces the frequency of symptoms of peptic ulcer in manic‐depressive patients was thus confirmed.
Differential evaluation of outcome in schizophrenia
Authors: Nyman A. K. , Jonsson H.
Published: August 2007

State of health, work and social relations functioning as outcome measures in 95 survivors out of 110 schizophrenic probands proved to be only moderately intercorrelated at follow‐up 6‐9 years after first hospital admission. Total sick‐leave time was the only treatment measure mirroing combined outcome, while the hospital treatment variables were connected only to working and self‐supporting ability. Among social competence data, only living in partnership, and producing children after falling ill were associated with a favourable outcome. Self‐reports and simple judgements by near relatives in response to precise questions provided relable information. Attitude questions were completely unrelated to outcome. Outcome did not vary with type of initial symptomatoloty (regressive/non‐regressive) but long duration of regression meant an unfavourable outcome. A better outcome in women as to social competence, working ability and degree of psychopathology stresses the necessity of noting the sex composition of materials in prognostic investigations.
Studies on biogenic amine metabolizing enzymes (DBH, COMT, MAO) and pathogenesis of affective illness
Authors: Puzynski S. , Bidzinski A. , Mrozek S. , Zaluska M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT – Erythrocyte COMT activity was determined in 31 healthy persons (16 men, 15 women) and in 34 persons with endogenous depressive syndrome (12 men, 22 women). It was found that enzyme activity is significantly higher in healthy men than in healthy women. In the group of women with endogenous depressive syndrome COMT activity is elevated as compared with the group of healthy women (P < 0.05). This is true of all forms of affective disease: bipolar, unipolar, and undifferentiated. High COMT activity in women with depression is apparent mainly in patients whose first and second degree relatives revealed psychiatric disturbances, particularly affective disorders. This supports the significance of the sex factor in the genetic transmission of affective disorders, and a possible involvement of COMT activity changes in the pathogenesis of such disorders in women. No correlation was found between the changes in COMT activity and the psychopathological picture of depression or the severity of endogenous depressive syndrome.
A three‐dimensional treatment programme for chronic pain
Authors: Götestam K. Gunnar
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT – The treatment of chronic pain contains several problems such as ineffectiveness, side effects and drug dependence. The concepts of respondent and operant pain are introduced, together with a general operant learning model for analysis and treatment of psychological problems. To make a psychological analysis of pain, evidence for learned pain behaviour must be assessed, reinforcers for treatment revealed, goal behaviours set up, and support in the environment secured. In the further analysis, account must be taken to a) time pattern of pain, b) pain behaviour, c) reactions from the environment, d) pain activators, e) pain reducers, f) the effect of tension versus relaxation on pain, and g) changes in the family structure necessary because of the pain problem. A three‐dimensional operant treatment programme for chronic pain is presented. It consists of 1) reduction of medication, 2) increase of activity, and 3) reduction of pain behaviour. Results, supporting the efficacy of the model, are presented.
Primary and secondary affective disorders in adolescents and young adults
Authors: Friedman R. C. , Hurt S. W. , Clarkin J. F. , Corn R.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT – The concepts of primary and secondary affective disorders have become widely accepted by researchers of adult psychiatric disorders. They are based on the chronological development of certain specified major affective disorders in relation to diagnosable, non‐affective psychiatric disorders. Despite potential etiological implications, little data are currently available on the primary‐secondary classification applied to cases with early onset adolescent and young adulthood affective disorders. This study reports on the application and clinical implications of the primary‐secondary classification in a sample of 65 adolescent and young adult inpatients who meet Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) for an index episode of Major Depressive Disorder.
Relationship between cerebrospinal fluid amine metabolites, neuroendocrine findings and personality dimensions (Marke‐Nyman scale factors) in psychiatric patients
Authors: Banki C. M. , Arató M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT – 5‐Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5‐HIAA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) were measured in the spinal fluid of 45 women hospitalized in a psychiatric department for major depression (14 cases), schizophrenia (18 cases) and alcohol dependence (13 cases). Dexamethasone suppression tests were performed following CSF examinations in all patients, and TRH stimulation tests were also made in six subjects. All biological examinations were carried out in a drug‐free state. The Marke‐Nyman Temperament scale was administered to all patients as soon as severe psychotic disturbances sub‐sided and sufficient cooperation was achieved, but no later than 10 days following biological examinations. The MNT was repeated after recovery to check reliability of the test results during an episode of a psychiatric disorder. CSF amine metabolite concentrations did not differ significantly in the three patient groups; postdexamethasone average cortisol levels were above the critical level (5 μg/dl) in each group, the highest values being found in major depression. One of the three MNT factors was inhomogeneous among diagnostic groups (validity: low in depression and alcoholism), but the other two also differed from a healthy control population. Correlation structure between biological and psychological variables was homogeneous throughout the diagnoses and a significant inverse correlation was found only between CSF 5‐HIAA and the validity factor of MNT. Maximal TSH response to TRH stimulation correlated with both solidity and stability in the MNT scale. Since MNT results proved to be stable even during an illness episode, a possible link is suggested between personality traits and central serotonin metabolism.
Dexamethasone suppression test in a pluri‐diagnostic approach: its relationship to psychopathological and clinical variables
Authors: Kasper S. , Beckmann H.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Using a pluridiagnostic approach, the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) was studied in 67 depressed inpatients in its relationship to diverse clinical variables. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD), the Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC), the Newcastle Index, the Hamilton Depression Rating scale (HAM‐D), and the Bf‐s self rating questionnaire were applied.

Fifty‐two per cent of endogenous depressed (ICD), 51 % of major depressive (RDC) and 53 % of endogenous depressed (Newcastle) patients demonstrated dexamethasone nonsuppression (DSTN) with a value above 110 nm/l. Six per cent of neurotic depressed (ICD), 9 % of minor depressive (RDC) and 23 % of neurotic depressed (New‐castle) patients were dexamethasone nonsuppressors. Significantly higher values (after P‐correction) for DSTN could be detected in severity ratings as measured with Newcastle (P < 0.001) and HAM‐D global score (P < 0.001) and also for HAM‐D factor 4 (somatic complaints, P= 0.001). All the other evaluated variables did not discriminate between patients with dexamethasone suppression and with nonsuppression.
Subtypes of aggressive conduct disorder
Authors: Stewart M. A. , Behar D.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– The subjects were 46 boys with aggressive conduct disorder who were admitted to a psychiatric ward. We divided them according to level of activity and number of antisocial “symptoms”; then compared the resulting groups on clinical and social variables. Seventy‐four per cent of the boys were observed to be hyperactive. Compared to those with a normal level of activity, this group developed their problems earlier, had more frequent speech and language deficits and came from more disrupted homes. Thirty boys were classed as antisocial and 16 as not. The former differed from the latter chiefly in their failure to respond to treatment. At follow‐up significantly more non‐antisocial boys were improved than antisocial. The results suggest that antisocial behavior affects outcome, while the variations in activity level are related to different origins of the disorder.
Validity of the ICD‐9 schizophrenia classification: A blind family history study
Authors: Ungvári G.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Within the framework of the multifactorial‐polygenic model of inheritance, multiple threshold strategy was applied to a large set of pedigree data to examine the clinico‐genetical position of some subtypes within the ICD‐9 classification of schizophrenic psychoses. It appeared highly probable that the ICD‐9 subtypes examined, oased mainly on the classical Kraepelin‐Bleulerian classification (simplex, hebephrenic, catatonic, paranoid, schizo‐affective) are not homogeneous from the clinico‐genetical point of view and genetical factors cannot be held primarily responsible for the clinical differences between the subtypes.
Psychological distress in parents of children with acute lymphatic leukemia
Authors: Magni G. , Messina C. , De Leo D. , Mosconi A. , Carli M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Psychological distress in parents of children with acute lymphatic leukemia was evaluated by means of the Symptom Distress Checklist. This scale was administered twice: within a few days after the child's admission to hospital and 8 months later. Twenty‐five consecutive, unselected subjects were compared with controls matched for age, sex, marital status and social class. At the first evaluation the sample presented higher mean scores than the controls for anxiety (P < 0.005), depression (P < 0.005), sleep disturbances (P < 0.005) and obsessions (P < 0.005). An 8 months' follow‐up confirmed the persistence of anxiety (P < 0.005), sleep disturbances (P < 0.05) and above all depression (P < 0.005).
Kidney function in an unselected lithium population
Authors: Bendz H. , Andersch S. , Aurell M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– We studied kidney function in 124 short‐term and long‐term lithium outpatients from a population of 127 patients. Glomerular and distal tubular function were measured and correlated with a number of demographic and treatment variables. There was a significant negative correlation between age and glomerular filtration rate. There were no other significant correlations. Tubular function was below normal in 51 % of the patients. Glomerular function was below normal in 3 % of the patients. We conclude that lithium treatment in non‐toxic dose affects kidney function and that tubular function is more affected than glomerular function. Tubular function probably is better than our figures indicate, glomerular function not as good. Types of lithium preparation do not affect kidney function differently nor does combined treatment with neuroleptics.
The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
Authors: Zigmond A. S. , Snaith R. P.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– A self‐assessment scale has been developed and found to be a reliable instrument for detecting states of depression and anxiety in the setting of an hospital medical outpatient clinic. The anxiety and depressive subscales are also valid measures of severity of the emotional disorder. It is suggested that the introduction of the scales into general hospital practice would facilitate the large task of detection and management of emotional disorder in patients under investigation and treatment in medical and surgical departments.
Relationship between tricyclic antidepressant plasma levels and clinical response in patients treated with desipramine or doxepin
Authors: Brunswick D. J. , Amsterdam J. D. , Potter L. , Caroff S. , Rickels K.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– A study examining the relationship between plasma levels of tricyclic antidepressants (TCA), clinical response, and side effects was performed in patients with major affective disorder. Patients received either desmethylimipramine (DMI) (150–200 mg/day) or doxepin (200 mg/day) for 4 weeks. No significant correlations were found between plasma levels and either clinical response or side effects when males and females were analyzed together. A significant correlation between plasma levels and response was found in females taking desmethylimipramine. Support for the finding that females may show a stronger relationship than males between clinical response and plasma TCA levels is provided from analysis of previous studies in the literature.
Parental rearing patterns and suicidal thoughts
Authors: Ross M. W. , Clayer J. R. , Campbell R. L.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– In an attempt to investigate the parental rearing patterns associated with presence of suicidal thoughts, a measure of child rearing patterns (EMBU) and the EPQ measure of personality dimensions were administered to 85 university students, 72 medical and surgical patients, and 125 employees of a state department, along with two questions tapping suicidal thoughts. Results indicated that those with suicidal ideation had parents who had separated more often than controls, and that parental rearing of those with suicidal thoughts included parents who favoured siblings rather than subject, were unstimulating, guilt‐engendering, rejecting and unaffectionate. Fathers were more abusive and punitive. These findings suggest that suicidal thoughts may be related to rejection and lack of self‐esteem, and that therapy which focuses on resolving parental rejection may be of some use in patients with suicidal ideation.
Effects of four treatment methods on agoraphobic women not suitable for insight‐oriented psychotherapy
Authors: Alström J. E. , Nordlund C. L. , Persson G. , Harding M. , Ljungqvist C.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Seventy‐three agoraphobic women rated unsuitable for insight‐oriented psychotherapy, entered one of four randomly assigned types of treatment for 3 months. All patients received basal therapy in the form of standardized information, self‐exposure instructions and anxiolytic medication. One group received this treatment only at monthly appointments (B). The others, in addition, received either therapist‐directed prolonged exposure in vivo (PE), dynamically oriented supportive therapy (ST) or relaxation therapy (R). There was a 9‐month follow‐up period. All groups were about equally improved at the termination of treatment, with some advantage for PE and ST. At follow‐up the ST group was more improved than the other groups, R was least improved, and PE showed some deterioration between the termination of treatment and the follow‐up. ST, which took into account the overall adjustment as well as the symptoms, was thus the most successful treatment, but the superiority of the treatment did not manifest itself until at the end of the follow‐up period.
Effects of three non‐insight‐oriented treatment methods on agoraphobic women suitable for insight‐oriented psychotherapy
Authors: Alström J. E. , Nordlund C. L. , Persson G. , Ljungqvist C.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Twenty‐three agoraphobic women rated suitable for insight‐oriented psychotherapy received one of three randomly assigned non‐insight‐oriented types of treatment for 3 months and the effect was followed up after 9 months. All patients received basal therapy (B) in the form of standardized information, self‐exposure instructions and anxiolytic medication. One group received this treatment only with, monthly appointments. The others, in addition, received either therapist‐directed prolonged exposure in vivo (PE} or relaxation therapy (R). The effects of insight‐oriented psychotherapy could not be studied due to the small numbers in this group. All groups showed clinically relevant improvement, which indicates a favourable prognosis of patients suitable for insight‐oriented psychotherapy irrespective of mode of treatment. However, since the PE group was least improved in some neurotic symptoms and had two treatment drop‐outs and two cases of symptom substitution this mode of treatment cannot be recommended for insight‐suitable patients. R patients came out favourably, which was contrary to the poor outcome with this therapy in patients not suitable for insight‐oriented psychotherapy.
Dimensions of psychopathology among alcoholic patients, college students, prison inmates and general psychiatric patients
Authors: Chan D. W.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– The Differential Personality Inventory was administered to four samples of subjects: 404 alcoholic patients, 292 college students, 720 prison inmates, and 181 general psychiatric patients. Exploratory factor analysis on the self‐report data yielded seven factors in each sample. The six factors, interpreted as common across samples, were: hypochondriacal complaining, blunted affect versus emotional reactivity, interpersonal conflict, depressed withdrawal, cognitive disorganization, and dysfunctional coping. Implications for the empirical development of a multiaxial diagnostic system and the construction of a case‐identifying instrument in psychiatric epidemiological research were discussed.
Adverse drug reactions
Authors: Schmidt L. G. , Grohmann R. , Helmchen H. , Langscheid‐Schmidt K. , Müller‐Oerlinghausen B. , Poser W. , Ruther E. , Scherer J. , Strauss A. , Wolf B.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– A drug monitoring system has been established at psychiatric university hospitals in Berlin, Goettingen, and Munich since 1979 in order to investigate adverse reactions to psychotropic drugs. This report describes the system and presents results obtained over 3 years. 504 randomly selected patients were observed by Intensive Drug Monitoring; 75% of them had an adverse drug reaction (ADR) during hospitalization that was assessed as possible, probable, or definite including all grades (I‐III) of severity. 5,096 other patients were monitored by Organized Spontaneous Reporting during treatment with psychotropic drugs: ADRs were responsible for drug withdrawal (severity grade III) in about 10% of them. Parkinsonism, psycho‐motor disturbance, akathisia, delirium, oversedation and increased transaminases were the most frequent ADRs of this kind. The relative frequency of ADRs was calculated, and ADR‐profiles established for drugs most frequently withdrawn. The impact of ADRs on ongoing therapy of patients was assessed. Reliable data obtained by drug monitoring systems can be expected to aid in therapeutic decisions in patients with special risks of side effects to psychotropic drugs.
Women with nonorganic psychosis: factors associated with pregnancy's effect on mental health
Authors: McNeil T. F. , Kaij L. , Malmquist‐Larsson A.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Pregnancy's effect on mental health during pregnancy was studied in relation to 17 variables representing the pregnant woman's demographic, social, material, physical and attitudinal characteristics, in an attempt to explain the highly varied effect of pregnancy on mental health which had been observed both among 88 index women with a history of nonorganic psychosis and among 104 demographically similar pregnant control women. Little explanation or predictability was found for the varied effect of pregnancy. Among index cases, only maternal age and the experienced effect of pregnancy on physical health were significantly related to its effect on mental health. In controls, the presence of material‐situational problems and a negative/ambivalent initial reaction to pregnancy were each related to increased change in mental health, i.e. to both improvement and worsening in mental health associated with pregnancy.
A psychosocial study of Igbo schizophrenic patients treated at a Nigerian psychiatric hospital
Authors: Ihezue U. H. , Kumaraswamy N.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– A study of the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of schizophrenics of Igbo origin treated at a psychiatric hospital in Nigeria over a period of 6 months was made together with a limited follow‐up. Males exceeded females in the proportion of 2:1. About 66 % were below the age of 30 years. While there were more married females than single, there were more single males than married. However, single persons on the whole predominated. The majority (61 %) were either illiterate or had low education while 52 % were either unemployed or unskilled persons. Paranoid and catatonic schizophrenias were the commonest diagnostic subgroups‐The short‐term prognosis was very good in that 96 % were greatly improved at the time of discharge. There was, however, a high dropout rate of 57 °c over a period of 5 years. Of those still attending, 73 % remained improved. The possible sociocultural basis of some of the findings is discussed.
The relationship of social setting to major depression
Authors: Hällström T. , Persson G.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Sixty middle‐aged women with a major depressive episode diagnosed in a community survey were compared with those 400 participants of the study who had no history of major depression. The husbands income and the family income were lower in the depressed group even when adjustment was made for age and marital status. The depressives were more often divorced or widowed than were controls. As a direct consequence of this, women with major depression lived in smaller residences and were more seldom owners of a summerhouse. The proportions of women working full‐time, part‐time or not working outside home were the same in those with major depression and the controls. The level of adversity (life events and long‐term major difficulties) during the year preceding the study was increased in the depressed group when adjustment was made for age, marital status and social class differences. A larger proportion of the depressed women reported marital and job dissatisfaction. Variables reflecting social isolation did not differ between groups. There were no differences between depressed and undepressed regarding churchgoing, but fewer of the former stated that they believed in God.
A rating scale for emotional distress in patients with malignant diseases
Authors: Wiholm B. E. , Asberg M. , Jacobsen K. , Boman G. , Gslirton G.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– As a contribution 10 assessment of quality of survival in malignant disease a rating scale for emotional distress (EDS) has been developed. The scale consists of eight items with explicit definitions, and the ratings are based on short interviews. The scale was applied on 34 patients with malignant blood diseases, and ratings were performed at regular intervals both prior to and during cytostatic treatment courses. The patients accepted the interview procedure well and the scale proved to be easy to apply in a clinical setting. Raters with little previous experience (nurses and physicians) had good inter‐rater reliability (r = 0.98). The EDS scores of patients in good somatic condition increased significantly (P < 0.01) during cytostatic treatment courses while no change was found among the more severely ill. There was a tendency for pure cytostatic schedules to inflict more discomfort than those also containing high doses of steroids, indicating that the scale may discriminate between various treatments. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.73, P < 0.01} between the EDS scores and the physical condition of the patients. The results indicate that the EDS may be a reliable and sensitive instrument which adds an important aspect to the evaluation of the quality of survival in the treatment of malignant disease. It may also be of value when comparing, different treatment regimens.
Anorexia nervosa in males
Authors: Vandereycken W. , Broucke S. Van den
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– The relatively small number of male anorexia nervosa patients is often used as an excuse for the scarce literature on this subject. An exhaustive review of the literature (1970 to 19801, searching for case reports, yielded information about 107 males described as having anorexia nervosa. According to current criteria, the diagnosis was well documented in 37 patients. Data on the clinical picture and the social background were analysed and compared with a sample of 148 female anorectics. It was found that from the clinical point of view anorexia nervosa is strikingly similar in both sexes. A cluster analysis revealed that three subgroups might be distinguished in male cases: a ‘(pre)pubertal’ variant, a ‘lower class', and a ‘middle class’ variant. It is concluded that male patients should be involved in any future research on this syndrome.
Management of mixed affective symptoms in primary care: a critical experiment
Authors: Ancill R. J. , Poyser J. , Davey A. , Kennerson A.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– The treatment of mixed anxiety/depression in general practice remains a problem. Non‐psychiatrists find diagnosis difficult to make in these patients. A double‐blind study was set up to explore this area and to investigate the efficacy of a tetracyclic antidepressant (mianserin) in the treatment of anxiety with or without mild and moderate depressive symptoms. The comparative drug used was diazepam. Benzodiazepines are used to treat patients with this presentation, often inappropriately. Forty‐seven patients were treated for up to 8 weeks. 24 received diazepam 5‐10 mg daily and 23 mianserin 30‐60 mg daily. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were measured using computer‐delivered rating scales. Mianserin was shown to be more effective than diazepam in treating symptoms of both depression and anxiety, with significantly more patients in the mianserin group reaching resolution of symptoms in the time period studied. Resolution occurred sooner with the antidepressant than with diazepam.
Drug‐related criminality among young people
Authors: Benson G. , Holmberg M. B.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Drug‐related criminality in Gothenburg, Sweden, was studied by following up criminal charges for stratified samples of un‐selected groups ‐ ninth graders in 1968 and. military conscripts in 1969/70 ‐ and selected groups ‐ psychiatric patients and social welfare clients ‐ of drug abusers. Cannabis was the predominant drug but central stimulants taken intravenously also occurred, particularly in the selected groups. During a follow‐up period of 5‐9 years cumulative criminality for men was twice as high among those who had stated high‐frequency drug use in questionnaires, and four times as high among selected drug abusers, as the average in the undetected groups. Cumulative criminality was lower for women, but was nine times higher for women who had stated high‐frequency drug use, and about 18 limes higher for selected drug abusers, than was the average in the unselected groups. The most common drug‐related crimes (in descending order) were crimes against property, against the Narcotics Drug Penal Act, and against the Road Traffic Offences Act. There was no significant increase in crimes against person. It is estimated that 25‐50 % of the criminals in the unselected groups of young men were drug abusers.
Drug‐related mortality in young people
Authors: Benson G. , Holmberg M. B.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Mortality in young drug users in Gothenburg was studied, by following up, for about a decade, two unselected groups (ninth grade pupils and military conscripts), and selected groups of abusers from the files of the health and social welfare authorities. In the unselected groups, cannabis smoking predominated. Solvents, LSD, and central stimulants taken orally or intravenously also occurred, particularly in the selected groups. Polydrug abuse including alcohol was common, opiate abuse was rare. Observed mortality was compared with expected mortality in the same age groups. The mortality rate was significantly increased in several of the selected groups, 2.4‐6.9 times in men and 1.3‐7.9 times in women. Among pupils with high‐frequency drug use it was increased 5.5 times in boys and not significantly increased in girls. Among pupils with low‐frequency drug use it was not significantly increased in boys and increased 4.7 times in girls. Among registered pupils the mortality was increased 4.2 and 8.2 times in boys and girls respectively. Military conscripts did not display an increased mortality. The proportion of unnatural deaths was over 90%, which was significantly higher than in the population. About half of the deaths were suicides and undetermined suicides. The proportion of undetermined suicides was high among men. Two of the male deaths were homicides. In about one third of the deaths alcohol was involved. Dextropropoxyphene was present in five of the 14 intoxications among men. Although mortality was increased it is lower than in other Scandinavian studies. This may be explained by the relative youth of the abusers and the rare occurrence of opiate abuse.
Drug‐related medical and social conditions in military conscripts
Authors: Benson G.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Drug‐related medical and social conditions were investigated in a sample of military conscripts from Gothenburg. The men participated in a questionnaire study concerning drug abuse in 1969/70 and were traced in different registers for 5 to 7 years. Abusers demonstrated an over‐consumption of psychiatric and social care. Of all military conscripts, 4% had Received in‐patient psychiatric care, A total of 18% of those who were high‐frequency drug users Received the same care. The predominant diagnosis at the time of psychiatric treatment was drug abuse, 42 % of all military conscripts were registered with the Social Welfare Administration, while the figure was 71% for high‐frequency drug users. The proportion of those with repealed or lengthy sick leave was greatest among those who indicated use of drugs in the questionnaire. The proportion who had driving licences was lower among drug users and 39 % of the high‐frequency drug users were granted exemption from military service during the inspection proceedings compared with less than 10% among the remaining groups. Cumulative frequencies of registrations showed that a number of curves were high for groups of drug users at an early stage and that the curves had not leveled off at the end of the follow‐up period.
Failure to correlate urinary MHPG with clinical response to amitriptyline
Authors: Puzynski S. , Rode A. , Bidzinski A. , Mrozek S. , Zaluska M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– On the basis of studies carried out in a group of 44 patients with endogenous depressive illness, the authors conclude that MHPG in urine is not a good predictor of response to amitriptyline treatment. There are no correlations between MHPG level and clinical improvement after 2 weeks’ treatment and with final results of the therapy.
Analysis of syndromes using Bayes's formula
Authors: Thomsen I. Scheel
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– A method of demonstrating syndromes by means of Bayes's formula with correction for redundancy is described. By analysing a database from 421 patients, it was possible to produce the well‐known syndromes and alternative patterns forming the basis for a diagnosis, choice of treatment and estimation of its results. In this way an inferential classification is prepared while other and similar methods mainly make use of a denominational classification. Advantages and disadvantages of both procedures are discussed.
Cannabis and neuroleptic agents in schizophrenia
Authors: Knudsen P. , Vilmar T.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– A description is given of 10 schizophrenic patients whose condition was acutely aggravated following cannabis use, despite verified adequate depot treatment with neuroleptics. It is concluded that cannabis use constitutes a risk factor for schizophrenic patients, and the hypothesis is suggested that there may exist a cannabis‐neuroleptics antagonistic interaction. Recent research in cannabis pharmacokinetics is presented in support of this hypothesis.
The use of depot neuroleptic haloperidol decanoate
Authors: Fernando J. , Raju R. Krishna , Jones G. G. , Stanley R. O.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Twenty‐nine patients were treated with haloperidol decanoate, the dosage ranging from 100 to 300 mg i.m. once a month, with duration of treatment ranging from 3–7 months. It seems that haloperidol decanoate could be useful in schizo‐affective disorder/depressed type and also in manic disorder. The investigators were impressed by the relative lack of side effects.
Zimeldine treatment of obsessive‐compulsive disorder
Authors: Kahn R. S. , Westenberg H. G. M. , Jolles J.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Six patients with Obsessive‐Compulsive Disorder (DSM III) were treated in an open uncontrolled trial with Zimeldine, for 8 weeks. All six patients had cognitive deficits before treatment. Five patients improved on the clinical symptoms. Four of these showed pronounced amelioration of their cognitive deficits.
Seasonality of birth in subtypes of chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Nasrallah H. A. , McCalley‐Whitters M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Several reports in the literature suggest that schizophrenic patients are disproportionately born during the colder months compared to the general population. In this study, we report differences in the seasonality of birth between the subtypes of chronic schizophrenia, particularly when gender is considered. Cold months’ births (December to March) are most likely in nonparanoid females and paranoid males. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed in light of genetic and environmental factors in schizophrenia.
Relationship of response to sleep deprivation and carbamazepine in depressed patients
Authors: Roy‐Byrne P. , Uhde T. W. , Post R. M. , Joffe R. T.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– The responses of 16 patients with major depressive disorder to one night's sleep deprivation and a subsequent double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of carbamazepine were compared. There was a significant association between the presence or absence of an antidepressant response to each of these treatments. Further studies are required to assess the clinical utility of this relationship and whether it is based on antidepressant response to any agent or is more specific to carbamazepine.
Is bilateral ECT ever indicated?
Authors: Strömgren L. Sand
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– To investigate whether it is indicated to make a shift to bilateral technique when the first 6–10 unilateral ECT treatments have produced no improvement in patients with endogenous depression, a retrospective study was made concerning 61 patients 34 of whom (group U) continued with unilateral treatment while in 27 (group UB) a shift was made to bilateral technique. No significant differences were found between the groups with regard to final therapeutic result, only a tendency to better effect in the first mentioned group. This tendency can be explained by the somewhat higher age in this group. The duration of seizures, administration of benzodiazepines, as well as treatment with antidepressive drugs, were equal in the groups, which were thus comparable. It is concluded that since bilateral ECT may severely impair memory for weeks or months the patients should not be stressed by a change to this technique.
Theophylline precipitated alterations of lithium clearance
Authors: Perry P. J. , Calloway R. A. , Cook B. L. , Smith R. E.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– The effect of steady state therapeutic theophylline serum levels on lithium clearance was investigated. A significant increase in lithium clearance occurred with the administration of theophylline. Despite considerable intersubject variability, a direct lithium clearance estimation method demonstrated a mean increase of 30% with the addition of theophylline. The concomitant use of lithium and theophylline potentially may alter lithium levels sufficiently to result in manic or depressive relapses in patients receiving lithium prophylactically.
Sexual function and dysfunction in younger married alcoholics
Authors: Jensen S. Buus
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– Sexual dysfunction in male and female alcoholic addicts was evaluated in a comparative study of 60 married alcoholics and an age‐matched control group from a general practitioner's clinic. 63% of the alcoholic men reported sexual dysfunction ‐ mainly erectile and libido disorders ‐ compared with 10% in the control group. The frequency of sexual dysfunction in alcoholic women did not differ from that in controls. Approximately 25% of the women who reported sexual dysfunction had reduced libido. The male alcoholics claim the aversive treatment. (Antabus®), to be the causative factor, and considered their problem began as soon as they started treatment. There was no change in masturbation or coital frequency in the month before and after initiation of treatment.

The study discusses present knowledge of relevant etiological factors in sexual function and dysfunction in alcoholics ‐ implicating a multifacetted therapeutic approach.
Epilepsy related to cerebral blood flow and metabolism
Authors: Ingvar David H
Published: August 2007

In an epileptic focus there is a three‐fold increase of the regional cerebral metabolism and blood flow. This has been shown with the 133 Xenon technique and with positron emission tomography. Such studies suggest that, in temporal lobe epilepsy, the pathways from the deep temporal structures to the frontal lobes do not function normally. The temporal ‘gate’ to the frontal lobes may be closed. This may explain symptoms of psychopathology in this common type of focal epilepsy.
Longitudinal studies of drug abuse in a fifteen‐year‐old population
Authors: Holmberg M. B.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– In the Gothenburg year cohort of 1953 1% of the men and 0.2% of the women were registered for chronic drug abuse through 1979. An early debut and a polydrug abuse with emphasis on intravenous abuse of central stimulants but not opiates were found. Compared with matched individuals who were unregistered for drug abuse, chronic drug abusers had a large over‐consumption of psychiatric and social care. Their registered criminality was higher, they were more often sick‐listed and had lower incomes than the controls. The prevalence and overall impairment of chronic abusers are similar to those of schizophrenics.
Homicide, suicide and CSF 5‐HIAA
Authors: Lidberg L. , Tuck J. R. , Åsberg M. , Scalia‐Tomba G. P. , Bertilsson L.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT–Concentrations of 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5‐HIAA), homovanillic acid (HVA), and 4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl glycol (HMPG) in lumbar spinal fluid were measured by mass fragmentography in 16 men convicted for criminal homicide, 22 men who had attempted suicide, and 39 healthy male control subjects. Those men who had killed a sexual partner, and those who had attempted suicide, had lower levels of the serotonin metabolite, 5‐HIAA in spinal fluid than the controls. It is suggested that low levels of 5‐HIAA in spinal fluid reflect a disorder of serotonin turnover, which makes the individual more prone to acts of violence in states of emotional turmoil.
Paroxetine in the treatment of depression ‐ a randomized comparison with amitriptyline
Authors: Laursen A. Lund , Mikkelsen P. L , Rasmussen S. , Honoré P. le Févre
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT–Paroxetine is a new antidepressant drug with potent serotonin (5HT) uptake inhibitory properties. In this double‐blind comparative study, the antidepressant effect of paroxetine and amitriptyline has been compared in 44 patients with depressive illnesses of an endogenous nature. Each drug was given for 6 weeks. The 17‐item Hamilton Depression Scale was used to measure the antidepressant effect. Reported events were assessed applying a 22‐item check list. Non‐parametric statistical analyses were applied in the evaluation of treatment outcome for the 30 patients who completed the study. The results showed no significant differences in overall antidepressant efficacy between paroxetine and amitriptyline and that paroxetine displayed significantly fewer instances of dry mouth and orthostatic dizziness than amitriptyline. No obvious relationship was demonstrated between the plasma levels of the drugs and their clinical effects.
The condition of “tightness”: the somatic complaints of Turkish migrant women
Authors: Mirdal G. M.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– This article is based on intensive interviews made with 75 Turkish migrant women living in Denmark. The interviews were conducted in the women's own homes, in their own language, and special care was taken to establish an atmosphere of confidence. The methodological problems involved in this kind of research are discussed. The purpose of the study was to obtain information on the women's own evaluation of their physical, psychological and social conditions in the host country‐ Only 8 % of the informants reported that they were in good health. The remaining had complaints of somatic character and considered themselves as being ill. There were no cases of severe psychopathology. The background of the women's illnesses is analysed at three levels: the physical, the psschosocial and the cultural levels respectively, in an attempt to elucidate their multifactorial etiology as well as to give a more comprehensive picture of the meaning of illness in a societal context.
Developmental differentiation of anxiety and affective neuroses
Authors: Torgersen S.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– One hundred and fifty anxiety neurotic and neurotic depressive twin probands were differentiated into three groups by means of discriminant analysis, 50 in each group. The groups were named pure anxiety neurosis, mixed anxiety‐depression and pure neurotic depression. Childhood environmental factors seemed important in the development of pure neurotic depression, while mixed anxiety‐depression seemed to be determined by environmental factors in adult life. Further investigation showed that loss of a parent before the age of 16, and moving before the age of 14 seemed important in the development of pure neurotic depression. Loss, or threat of loss, of love objects appeared to be the most common precipitating event for the neurotic depression and mixed anxiety‐depression groups, while pregnancy and childbirth seemed to be of great significance in the development of pure anxiety neuroses. Furthermore, unmarried status was most frequent in the mixed anxiety‐depressive group of probands.
The couvade syndrome and side preference in child holding
Authors: Bogren L. Y.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT– In a prospective study of expectant couples 20% of the men suffered from the couvade syndrome. About 80% of both women and men hold their newborn infant to the left and 20% to the right, irrespective of handedness. Compared with others, men with the syndrome more frequently developed a right‐side preference in child holding. Right‐holding men more often had sons than daughters. Right‐holders with the couvade syndrome were more often attached to and more closely identified with their mothers than were right‐holding non‐sufferers.
Marital disharmony four and a half years post partum
Authors: Nettelbladt P. , Uddenberg N. , Englesson I.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT This longitudinal study of primiparous women concerns factors related to the quality of the marital relationship 4 1/2 years after the birth of the first child. Information was independently collected from the women, their husbands and children. A poor relationship to the partner and impaired mental health in the women post partum were associated with marital disharmony at follow‐up. In disharmonious marriages more often than in others parents were estimated to have a rejecting attitude towards their child and the child to have a rejecting attitude towards its parents. Further, in these marriages poor parental relationships of boys were more common than those of girls and socially immature boys as compared to socially immature girls overrepresented.
Suicides among male Finnish seafarers
Authors: Wickstrom G. , Leivonniemi A.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACTOn analysing death registers of Finnish seafarers, 117 cases of suicide were found among active professional males in the years 1965–77. The suicide rate of the officers was similar to that of occupationally active males in the general population, while the suicide rate of the crew was 2 1/2 times higher (P< 0.05). Many of the men who committed suicide had been at sea 5 to 10 years. Before their death they frequently changed ships.
The intensive care unit and the suicide attempt patient
Authors: Wolk‐Wasserman D.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT Forty consecutively admitted suicide attempt patients, their 70 significant others, and the intensive care unit's personnel were interviewed about their feelings and reactions during the patients' stay on the intensive care unit. The patients belonged to three diagnostic groups. The most prominent feelings and reactions were shame and resistance towards the personnel in the neurosis group, anger and uneasiness in the abuse group, and indifference and apathy in the p re psychosis/psychosis group. The personnel did not observe the patients' underlying feelings and primarily responded to the patients' observable behaviour with different types of reactions, ranging from empathy to distancing and aggression. The latter reactions were due, in part, to the difficulties in dialogue between the patients and the personnel which aroused fear and anxiety in the personnel. The personnel's difficulties in communication with the patients, and the resulting problems are discussed. Significant others did not receive any support, in spite of their need for psychological help.