bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1530 – Suicide, Religion And Holy Week
Authors: Giner L. , de la Vega D.C. , Barranco E. , Guija J. , Rico A. , Ruíz C. , Marín R. , Giner J.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Although religion is one the protective factors classically related to suicidal behavior, as far as we know, no studied based on psychological autopsy has been published. Holy Week in Seville (Spain) may be the most important traditional event of the city. Besides socio-cultural and economic aspects, it is the celebration of the Passion and Death of Christ through the brotherhood processions to the Cathedral, and its religious feeling is present in a large majority of the population.

Objectives

In the present work we tried to study if, as well as other religious aspects, belonging to a brotherhood and participating actively in it are protective factors for suicide.

Methods

We compared the results of two samples (271 suicides and 142 sudden-death controls), which were studied using a psychological autopsy. We developed a questionnaire to study religious thoughts/feelings, specially those related with the Holy Week brotherhoods.

Results

In our sample, religious people committed less suicides than the atheist (80 %-68’1% between the males, 100%-92’4% between the females), being the differences statistically significant for the males (chi square test =0’002). Belonging to a brotherhood was also a protective factor (only 22’5% of the suicide victims belonged, compared with the 37’8% of the controls), and if the participated actively they had even less risk (RR=0’562).
1532 – Why Existential Issues Need To Be Addressed In Clinical Practice: a Conceptual Analysis
Authors: Glas G.
Published: July 2013

The paper describes a conceptual model that illuminates why existential issues are an essential element of history taking and need to be addressed in clinical practice. There are four layers in the encounter with the patient: (1) the analysis of the clinical syndrome; (2) the investigation of the way the patient relates to her condition; (3) analysis of the way the psychiatric condition affects this latter relation (example: demoralization as depressive symptom affects the way the patient relates to her depression); and (4) investigation of the way the personality of the patient affects her relation to the clinical condition. Existential factors play a role in layer (4) and maybe crucial not only for understanding the patient but also for compliance and effectiveness of interventions. The paper will relate to other attempts to an integral view on patient care and will describe efforts to implement this view in clinical practice and residency training.
534 – Designer Drugs: Psychoactive Effects And Diffusion In An Italian University Population
Authors: Martinotti G. , Chillemi E. , Sarchione F. , Lupi M. , Fiori F. , Di Giannantonio M.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

A new generation of synthetic compounds, readily available on the web, has recently come on the market. Designer Drugs are produced with the intent to elicit effects similar to controlled substances getting round the drugs laws. Two of the most recent Designer Drugs are “Spice” and “Bath Salts”. They produce psychoactive reinforcement, are highly attractive, perceived as safe drugs and not easily detectable in urine and blood samples.

Methods

The study focused on quantifying the presence of these compounds among the possible illicit substances usually consumed among adolescents and young adults. Besides we aimed to evaluate the existence of websites related to Designer Drugs and aimed at dividing their positions towards drug use in three main categories : Anti Drugs, Pro Drugs and Harm Reduction Approach.

Results

The diffusion of the phenomenon is still at his beginning, although most of the subjects interviewed had some knowledge of the phenomenon. A web mapping has underlined the preponderance of Pro Drugs websites. As regards “Spice”, 77 is the total number of related websites: 53 (69 %) Pro Drugs, 17 (22%) Anti Drugs and 7 (9 %) Harm Reduction Approach.

Conclusions

Although the internet provides a wide range of information about the side effects of Designer Drugs and many Countries have banned them, there is still a high number of Pro Drugs websites that actively promotes their consume. However, the level of use in Italy is still low, according to the data emerging from the sample recruited.
1536 – Hostage Of His Own - Does Sexual Addiction Have Place In Sexual Disorders?
Authors: Rio C. , Canha J. , Brenha M.M.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

In the last decades Sexual Addiction has received increased attention among mental health professionals; however, the phenomenon as a clinical syndrome is still controversial. The DSM-IV TR and CID-10 contain ambiguous categories to correspond with this. The American Psychiatric Association is now debating whether Sex Addiction should be added to DSM-V.

Objectives

Using a recent movie as background, the authors present the state of art, describing behavior and theories:

a)

compulsive behavior,

b)

impulsive behavior or

c)

addiction behavior.

Methods

Textbooks and studies published on Pubmed and Medlink. Analyses of Steven McQueen movie - “Shame”(2011).

Results

Like a train toy that it always going around, caught in the distressing anguish of this damn, the movie’s protagonist lives a circular controlled martyrdom. In this movie full of sexual scenes, there is no eroticism, only discomfort, coldness and oppression. The body is his tether, isolated from the world and self-enclosed. Guilt and shame are his permanent emotions. The debate is coming to a conclusion - a DSM-V diagnose “Hypersexual Disorder”, characterized by a repetitive and intense preoccupation with sexual fantasies, urges, and behaviors, leading to adverse consequences and clinically significant distress or impairment.

Conclusions

It’s a reasonable challenge getting a reliable classification to provide easier access and professional help to those who often suffer enormous pain and shame. There are still opinions against this, mainly because the limits of sexual normality aren’t clearly defined, the symptoms patterns aren’t distinct, moral judgments are involved and the label may be a misnomer.
1540 – Chronic Multiple Skin Ulcers In An I.V. Drug User (shooter's Patch) Disappeared After Treatment With Buprenorphine/naloxone (suboxone)
Authors: Hasanović M. , Pajević I. , Kuldija A. , Delić A. , Sutović A.
Published: July 2013

We present a case report of an individual with multiple chronic ulcers, which were cultivated and maintained for the administration of heroin. A 34 year old not married musician man lives with his widowed mother. His both parents finished secondary school. After father death they are living in very humble material conditions, below average financial monthly income. He was previously treated for heroin addiction in 2006 (five years ago), finished secondary school, not employed. Has no child. With 16 years he started with marijuana smoking. Nowadays he is IDU, and takes heroin every day, started with age of 18 years (16 years active heroin user). He started with IVU with 24 years (ten years ago). He used common accessories for intravenous heroin. He was HIV negative five days before he started maintenance substitution therapy of heroin dependency with buprenorohine/naloxone (Suboxone). The most modern medically assisted method of substitution treatment of opiate dependants with Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone) may improve quality of life (QoL) of treated opiate addicts and his/her skin damages caused with intravenous heroin misuse.
1545 – Inmates Trauma And Dissociation
Authors: Espirito-Santo H. , Costa M.
Published: July 2013

Trauma and dissociation have been shown to be prevalent among inmate population. However, despite the high rate of traumatic experiences in this population, few studies have aimed on potential links between traumatic experiences and dissociation, specially considering the types of crime. This study sought to examine the severity of dissociative and traumatic experiences, as well as relationships between types of crime, types of trauma, and dissociation.

Twenty-nine inmates (mean age = 37.8 ± 10.0) were examined using the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) and the Traumatic Experiences Checklist (TEC), 12 committed property crimes and 17 crimes against people. A crime severity index (CSI) included sentence length, plus number of crimes, number of sentences, multiplied by type of crime (property crimes = 1; crimes against the person = 2). Two groups were created based on CSI mean plus one standard deviation (25.95 + 16.61): “severe crime” (17.2%), and “moderated serious crime” (82.8%).

In total sample, the intensity of traumatic (7.36 ± 3.74) and dissociative (16.70 ± 14.6) experiences were high comparing with a study with a general sample (p < 0.05). Types of crimes were not associated with trauma or dissociation. Physical abuse and trauma with body threat were significantly linked to high levels of dissociation.

In conclusion, traumatic and dissociative experiences are severe in inmate population. Dissociative experiences in inmates are specially linked to trauma with physical abuse and with body threat. Type of crime is not associated with trauma or dissociation.
1546 – Personality Traits And Postpartum Depression: Results From Basic Study In Sweden
Authors: Koulouris P. , Iliadis S.I. , Sundström-Poromaa I. , Ekselius L. , Skalkidou A. , Papadopoulos F.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Postpartum depression (PPD), with a prevalence of about 10-15% in developed countries, has a major impact on both mother and child. Personality traits, mainly neuroticism, have been associated with affective disorders and in particular postpartum depression.

Objectives

To examine if neuroticism is associated with depressive symptoms in pregnancy and post-partum, controlling for possible confounding factors.

Methods

Since September 2009, all pregnant women in Uppsala, Sweden have been asked to participate in BASIC study, which is a population based, prospective study on mental health during pregnancy and post-partum. Women filled in the Swedish Scales of Personality (SSP), as well as the Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) in pregnancy week 32. EPDS was also administered 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum. A factor analysis of SSP traits was conducted in our material and the three factor structure comprising neuroticism, aggressiveness and sensation seeking was confirmed. The association between personality traits and depressive symptoms was examined using binary logistic regression. High levels of neuroticism, aggressiveness and sensation seeking were defined as the highest quartile of each factor.

Results

High levels of neuroticism were strongly associated with depressive symptoms during pregnancy as well as at 6 weeks and 6 months post-partum, while aggressiveness and sensation seeking were not. After controlling for confounding factors, such as previous history of depression, employment, education, partner support and breastfeeding, neuroticism remained a significant predictor for depressive symptoms, at all three time-points.

Conclusions

Neuroticism is an independent strong predictor of depressive symptoms during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
1548 – Correlates Of Psychoform And Somatoform Dissociation In Eating Diosrders (ed)
Authors: Espirito-Santo H. , Gonçalves L. , Marques M. , Rocha P. , Cassimo S.
Published: July 2013

Psychoform dissociation is related with various kinds of traumatic experiences and somatoform dissociation with physical abuse, probably because dissociation blocks negative affects. The association between types of dissociation and types of trauma in eating disorders it is not clear. Our objective is to examine what are the correlates of psychoform and somatoform dissociation in ED. We assessed 29 voluntary ED patients (anorexia = 16; bulimia = 13) from one psychiatric consultation with the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), the Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire (SDQ-20), the Traumatic Events Checklist (TEC), and the General Symptom Index (GSI) from the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI).

In anorexia, DES scores significantly correlated with GSI, anxiety, phobia, psychoticism, obsessive-compulsive, depressive, and paranoid symptoms, and with none of the trauma types. In bulimia, DES significantly correlated with GSI, and all of the BSI symptomatology except obsessive-compulsive and hostility; with emotional trauma (occurred between the 0-6 years of age), and familial trauma.

In anorexia, SDQ-20 significantly correlated with GSI, and all of the BSI symptomatology except somatization and paranoid symptoms. In bulimia, SDQ-20 significantly correlated with GSI, and all BSI dimensions; with trauma, physical abuse, emotional trauma (occurred between the 0-6 years of age), and with familial trauma.

These findings highlight the importance of considering psychopathological symptoms in the treatment of psychoform and somatoform dissociation in ED. A special caution should be given to infancy trauma occurred in the family in the treatment of dissociation in bulimia.
1551 – Is There Delusional Anorexia Nervosa?
Authors: Konstantakopoulos G. , Varsou E. , Ploumpidis D. , Dikeos D. , Ioannidi N. , Papadimitriou G.N. , Oulis P.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Lack of insight is a major obstacle in treating patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). In everyday practice, clinicians often describe as delusional AN patients who strongly deny their emaciation.

Objectives

Despite their diagnostic and clinical significance the level of delusionality of body image beliefs in eating disorders (EDs) has not yet been systematically investigated.

Aims

In the present study we assessed for the first time the delusionality of body image beliefs in AN subtypes and BN. We hypothesized that body image beliefs would be delusional only in a subgroup of AN patients and that the patients with restrictive AN would demonstrate the higher levels of delusionality.

Methods

We used the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale (BABS) to assess the degree of delusionality of body image beliefs in seventy-two participants: 39 with AN and 33 with BN. We also investigated the relationship between body image delusionality and other clinical characteristics in AN.

Results

Only patients with anorexia nervosa (28.8%) had delusional body image beliefs, whereas overvalued ideas appeared to be frequent in both AN and BN. Body image delusionality in AN was associated with restrictive eating pathology, early onset of the disorder and body dissatisfaction.

Conclusions

Results suggest that a delusional variant of anorexia nervosa represents the one end of a continuum of insight among patients with eating disorders. Delusionality constitutes a clinical feature independent of weight loss or eating pathology and thus a distinct component of AN psychopathology, contributing to treatment resistance and illness chronicity.
1555 – Repetitive Behaviors In Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Brenha M.M. , Rio C.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

In Tourette Syndrome (TS), a neuropsychiatric disorder, tics are frequently associated with obsessivecompulsive symptoms that not always fulfill criteria for Obsessive- Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Phenomenological, genetic and epidemiologic studies suggest a strong association between TS and OCD, not only in patients but also in their relatives. Obsessive-compulsive symptoms can be found in 28-63% of TS patients. Motor portions of cortico-striato-thalamic-cortical circuits are implicated in tics and compulsions. Integrating these repetitive behaviors in Obsessive-Compulsive (OC) spectrum, a continuum between Compulsion and Impulsion, OCD tic-free is positioned at the compulsive end and tic-related OCD and ST are positioned between the two poles.

Objectives

This communication has as main objective to characterize the repetitive behaviors in TS by presenting the differences and similarities with compulsions.

Aims

To integrate TS in OC spectrum.

Methods

Articles’ selection in PUBMED and SCIENCEDIRECT databases and literature’s review about the theme.

Results

According to clinical features and treatment response, tic-related OCD has an intermediate position between OCD ticfree and TS, sharing common aspects with both entities.

Conclusions

TS may be differenciated from OCD subgroups, namely tic-related OCD, by its clinical features and therapeutic response. The presence of repetitive touching actions and ecophenomena seems to discriminate TS from OCD. The phenomenological characterization of repetitive behaviors in TS is extremely important, as tic and compulsion’s treatment is different.
1563 – The Examiner's Effect On The Measurement Of Dissociation And Other Psychopathological Symptoms In College Students
Authors: Matreno J. , Espírito Santo H.
Published: July 2013

Objective

The aim of this research was to verify if there is a difference in dissociation or other psychopathological symptoms between two groups of college students when questioned by two different examiners.

Method

The Dissociative Experiences Scale, the Brief Symptom Inventory and the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale were administered to 185 college students in Coimbra. In one group the examiner was of the same age and academic status, while in the other group the examiner was older and a professor.

Results

The younger examiner’s group scored higher in the Dissociative Experiences Scale and in the Brief Symptom Inventory. There were no differences in the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale.

Conclusions

The examiner does have an influence in the evaluation of psychopathological symptoms amongst college students and this occurs not because of social desirability, but because of cultural and environmental proximity, age and empathy with the examiner.

Implications

The results derived from mental health studies with college students should be interpreted cautiously, and who is the examiner should be pointed out.
1566 – The Relationship Between The 5-httlpr Gene, Major And Minor Life Events And Childhood Trauma And Depression, Anxiety And Suicidal Symptoms: a Clinical Study Among Adolescents
Authors: Apter A. , Oshry N. , Weizman A. , Frisch A.
Published: July 2013

Life events (LEs) contribute to the development of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. Nevertheless, the power of the stress-affective disorders correlation is relatively low, suggesting the existence of moderating and mediating factors (Liu et al., 2000).

Caspi et al. (2003), showed a mediating effect for short allele in the 5-HTTLPR gene to be a vulnerability factor for developing affective reaction towards life events.

The present study t aimed to examine the intensity of anxiety, depression and suicidal symptoms within a clinical population as a function of the genetic vulnerability and LEs variables, focusing on adolescents. The sample consisted of 146 adolescents, aged from 11 to 18 years, 54 with main diagnosis of depression, 38 with anxiety disorder and 54 healthy control group.

A post-hoc analysis yielded that only for the anxiety group, but not for the depressive group, the correlation between early trauma and the suicidal ideation is dependent on genetic vulnerability. As such, only for those who suffer from anxiety disorder who also have two short alleles (ss), the existence of childhood trauma predicts more suicidality that accompany their affective disorder., while for those with two long alleles, or for those with depression, this linkage does not have significance.
1570 – Cleavage Of Neuregulin 1 And Bace1 Expression In Frontal Cortex Of Schizophrenia Patients
Authors: Barakat A. , Bellingham S. , Hill A. , Boon W.C. , Evin G.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Neuregulin1 (Nrg1) is a candidate gene linked to schizophrenia. Cleavage of Nrg1 full-length (Nrg1-FL) precursor protein by BACE1 mediates activation of erbB receptors and triggers a cascade of downstream signalling events that lead to activation of GABA, NMDA, and nicotinic receptors. Studies with BACE1 knock out mouse models have demonstrated impaired Nrg1-/ErbB signalling leads to SZ-like phenotypes that can be rescued by antipsychotics.

Objectives

We analysed frontal cortex brain tissue of schizophrenia (SZ) and healthy control (HC) subjects for expression of BACE1, Nrg1-FL and Nrg1 cleaved fragment.

Aim

To explore the possible mis-cleavage of Nrg1 by BACE1 in SZ as this may disrupt some neuronal circuits in the brain and trigger schizophrenia.

Methods

Samples from Brodmann area 6 region (40 SZ and 20 HC) were homogenized with TRIzol and proteins were analysed by western blotting. Also samples were analysed for RNA integrity and 18 SZ and 20 HC with high RIN were selected for qRT-PCR study.

Results

About 50% decrease in Nrg1 C-terminal fragment (CTF) was observed in the SZ group compared to the HC group (p < 0.001). A strong correlation between Nrg-FL and BACE1 was observed (r = 0.82, P < 0.001). Results of qRT-PCR showed a significant increase in the expression of BACE1-432 splice variant in SZ compared to HC (P = 0.005). A strong inverse correlation was found between BACE1 activity and 432/501 BACE1 splice variants expression.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that altered expression of BACE1 and decreased cleavage of Nrg1 are associated with SZ.
1577 – A Historical Study Of The Work Of Frances Tustin
Authors: Ferreira J.A. , Abrão J.L.F.
Published: July 2013

Frances Tustin was a renowned child therapist that, with her original conceptions and therapeutic effectiveness, stemming mainly from the clinical work with autistic and psychotic children, expanded the existing theories on the primitive states of mind influencing therapists in their clinical and academic work and acquiring a broad spectrum of activity. This study aimed to trace the course of the theoretical work of Frances Tustin in the original language in which it was produced. To this end, it was used a historical approach, to investigate the origins of a thought and its various contextual determinants as the biography of the author, the historical period, clinical cases, among others. The research material was the complete writings of Frances Tustin. From a detailed review process the work was divided into three main periods:

1)

Early Writings;

2)

Elaborations and

3)

Revisions.

Her theoretical corpus has not only assisted the attendance of atypical children, but also psychotic, borderline and neurotic adult patients. It enabled contact and exchange experiences with workers from various institutions elucidating the affective aspects involved in the functioning of patients and the dynamics of their relationships with caregivers. Her theoretical and technical contributions are widely known and respected in many countries. It remains modern among the significant neuroscience advances as a complementary contribution for a greater understanding on the psychodynamics of the most regressed states of mind.
1578 – Process Of Interaction With Patients And Nurses - Approach Towards Severe Motor And Intellectual Disability With Severe Behavior Disorder In Japan-
Authors: Sejima K. , Aita C. , Yuzuriha T.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Hizen Psychiatric Center has the first ward for Severe Behavior Disorder in Japan which has the highest number of severe cases. We have many specialized ways to intervene over the years, Habilitation, TEACCH Pharmacotherapy and Behavior therapy. On the otherhand, most of patients have traits (such as difficulty in communicating, severe self and other harming, pica) are easy to make their carer feel rewardless, conflict.

Objectives

To have adequate understanding and give specialized supports for carer, we focus on experiences of care-giving, and analyze the process about formation of care-giving, what kind of rewards they acquire.

Methods

Half-constructed Interview with 10 Nurses at the ward and Qualitative Analysis based on Grounded Theory Approach.

Results

5 Upper Categories are produced

(Shock) (Disgust) (Conflict) (Change) (Acceptance)

and those can be the steps. This process is not linear and each nurse has each pattern of achievement and time.

Conclusions

We found the steps of care-giving formation even there are difficulty of interaction. To achieve (Change) (Acceptance)

individually, we can suggest the way to make them feel rewarding. Carer (including Staff and Parent) are important environments for patients. It needs to empower them not to be anti-factor of care-giving.
1584 – Complicated Self-realization Of Persons With Clinical Diagnosis “stress-related Adjustment Disorder”
Authors: Bokhan T.
Published: July 2013

Investigation supposed study of complicated self-realization of persons with clinical diagnosis “neurotic disorders, stressrelated” and problem of adaptive behavior (F10, ICD-10). Investigation included 128 persons at the age from 20 to 52 years old among which there are males - 40, females - 88.

Methods used

Quality of Life Index (R. S. Eliot), Depressiveness Questionnaire (A. Beck), Meaning of Life Orientations (D. A. Leontyev), Tomsk Rigidity Questionnaire (G. V. Zalevsky), Coping-Strategies Rating (E. Heim), Thought Constructiveness Questionnaire (S. Epstein); Non-Complete Sentences Method by J. Nuttin; Statements’ Content Analysis Method, Methods of statistical analysis.

Results

Complicated self-realization in respondents is manifested as: uncertain life values and principles, experiences of nonachievement of their aims and perception of themselves as losers, anxious thoughts about their future. Inability of planning and organizing their time, feeling of its constant lack; complicated self-control and their decision making; closeness in selfexpression; thought and behavior activity rigidity are typical for them. Their emotional state is characterized by tension of personal experiences, conflicts and crises for recent time that is accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame and anger. Indices of physical state testify to bad sleep, decreased physical activity. Professional self-realization of respondents has been represented by variants: uncertainty of professional self-identification, character of self-realization has been represented by reproductive type, associated with deficient values; presence of strives to professional self-development in absence of idea of their realization. Stress tension as a “blockade” of self-realization is conditioned by unity of image of world and image of life of respondents.
1593 – Cognitive Impairment In Depression In Women
Authors: Marinescu I.P. , Udriştoiu T. , Marinescu D. , Pîrlog M.C.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Depression in women is supported by specific psychoendocrine factors. Neuroprotection is reduced in conditions of exposure to psychostress by increase of endogenous cortisol due to excessive HPA activity associated with somatic risks. Decrease of neuroprotection after hypercortisolemia due to excessive HPA activity is associated with somatic obvious risks that may cause an increase in social malfunction of women with depression.

Material and methods

Retrospective-prospective study on a sample of 206 female patients, with positive history for depressive disorder, hospitalized in the Mental Health Center (MHC) of Craiova, monitored between January, 1st 2012 and June, 31st 2012. At these patients we evaluated depression evolution, somatic comorbidities, cognitive impairment and psychosocial stress.

Results

Somatic comorbidities (obesity and cardiovascular disease, 41 patients - 19.9%, obesity and diabetes and metabolic syndrome, 36 patients - 17.5%, hysterectomy, 35 patients - 17.5%) occurred during maintenance therapy emphasizes evolutionary risk of depressive disorder in women and cognitive impairment, especially in peri- and postmenopausal period (68.6%). Appeared in a large number of cases of the syndrome MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) (29 patients - 14.1%) and 4 cases of Alzheimer's disease also increase the predictive value of perimenopausal depression and psychostress conditions (13.1%).

Conclusions

Vulnerability to depression is correlated with peri- and postmenopausal ovarian steroid imbalance favoring the disruption of brain neurotransmission. Excess of serotonin activating substance therapy may promote the emergence of hypodopaminergy with risk of increased somatic and cognitive deficiency. Hypodopaminergy conduced to an increased glutamatergic activity, with significant decreases in neuroprotection and neurodegenerative risk.
1594 – Effects Of Alcohol Hangover On Driving Performance
Authors: Verster J.C. , Bervoets A.C. , de Klerk S. , Vreman R.A. , Olivier B. , Brookhuis K.A.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Alcohol hangover is the most commonly experienced next day consequence of heavy drinking. The symptoms experienced during this post-intoxication state develop when blood alcohol concentration (BAC) returns to zero. The feeling of general misery can persist up to 24 h and can significantly affect planned activities and cognitive functioning.

Objective

To examine the effects of alcohol hangover on driving performance.

Methods

In N=47 healthy volunteers, driving performance was tested the morning following heavy drinking (alcohol hangover) and on a control day (no alcohol). Subjects performed a standardized 100-km highway driving test in the STISIM driving simulator. Primary outcome measure was the Standard Deviation of Lateral Position (SDLP), i.e. the weaving of the car. In addition, self-reported driving quality and driving style measures were scored.

Results

Driving performance was significantly worse during alcohol hangover (ΔSDLP = +1.85 cm; p=0.005). Driving impairment during alcohol hangover was supported by subjective measures. During alcohol hangover, driving quality was rated as significantly worse (p=0.0001), less safe, less considerate, less predictable, and less responsible (p=0.001). Subject reported being significantly more tensed during hangover and more effort was needed to perform the driving test (p=0.001).

Conclusion

Driving is significantly impaired during alcohol hangover. The magnitude of driving impairment is higher than that observed after administering alcohol to achieve a BAC of 0.05% (ΔSDLP = +1.7 cm), i.e. the legal limit for driving in many countries.
1595 – The Effects Of Mixing Alcohol With Caffeinated Beverages On Subjective Intoxication
Authors: Verster J.C. , de Haan L. , Benson S. , Alford C. , Scholey A.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

It has been suggested that mixing alcohol with energy drinks (AMED) and other caffeinated beverages may alter the awareness of intoxication. The proposed reduction in subjective intoxication, also called “the masking effect”, may have serious consequences by increasing the likelihood of engaging in potentially dangerous activities such as driving while intoxicated.

Aim

The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine if mixing alcohol with caffeinated beverages alters subjective intoxication.

Methods

A literature search was conducted (August 21st, 2012) to collect all studies measuring subjective intoxication after administration of AMED, or other caffeinated alcoholic drinks compared to alcohol only. To this extent, PubMed and Embase were searched using the key words “alcohol”, “caffeine”, “energy drinks” and “intoxication”. The studies were critically reviewed and, where possible, included in a meta-analysis in order to determine whether masking exists after mixing alcohol with caffeinated beverages.

Results

Twelve studies were identified of which 8 could be used for the meta-analysis. When including higher caffeine doses (4 mg/kg) the meta-analysis revealed no significant masking effect (p= 0.477). Similarly, when including lower caffeine doses (2 mg/kg) no significant masking effect was found (p=0 .434). Despite the large range of caffeine content (46 - 383 mg) and alcohol levels (0.03% - 0.12% BAC) investigated, caffeine had no effect on the correct judgment of subjective intoxication.

Conclusion

Mixing alcohol with energy drink or other caffeinated beverages does not alter subjective intoxication.
1597 – Alterations In Serotonin Transporter Asymmetry In Male-to-female Transsexuals Measured By Brain Pet
Authors: Kranz G.S. , Hahn A. , Haeusler D. , Philippe C. , Kaufmann U. , Wadsak W. , Mitterhauser M. , Kasper S. , Lanzenberger R.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The serotonergic system modulates brain functions that are considered to underlie affective states, emotion and cognition. Several lines of evidence point towards a strong lateralization of these mental processes, indicating similar asymmetries in associated neurotransmitter systems.

Objectives

To investigate a potential brain asymmetry of the serotonin transporter (SERT) distribution using Positron Emission Tomography (PET).

Aims

As brain asymmetries differ between sexes, we aimed to compare serotonin transporter asymmetry between females, males and male-to-female transsexuals whose brains are considered to be partly feminized.

Methods

36 subjects aged 19-54 years (9 female controls, 13 male controls and 14 male-to-female transsexuals) were measured with PET and [11C]DASB. Whole-brain voxel-wise SERT binding potential (BPND) maps were computed using a tracer-specific symmetric template. Statistics comprised repeated measures ANOVA with group as the between subjects factor, voxel-wise SERT asymmetry as repeated factor and group*asymmetry as interaction term.

Results

SERT binding in all groups showed both strong left and rightward asymmetries in several cortical and subcortical structures including temporal and frontal cortices, anterior cingulate, hippocampus, caudate and thalamus (p< 0.05 FDRcorrected). Further, male controls showed a rightward asymmetry in the midcingulate cortex (p>0.05 FDR-corrected) which was absent in females and male-to-female transsexuals.

Conclusions

Our data support the notion of a lateralized serotonergic system, which is in line with previous findings of asymmetric serotonin-1A receptor distributions, extracellular serotonin concentrations, serotonin turnover and uptake. The absence of serotonin transporter asymmetry in the midcingulate in male-to-female transsexuals may be attributed to an absence of brain masculinization in this region.
1602 – Longitudinal Studies On Associations Between Use Of Antipsychotics And Brain Morphometric Changes In Schizophrenia - a Systematic Review
Authors: Huhtaniska S. , Jääskeläinen E. , Hirvonen N. , Remes J. , Murray G. , Veijola J. , Isohanni M. , Miettunen J.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Relatively little is known on longitudinal effects of antipsychotic medication on brain morphometry in schizophrenia after the illness onset. There are inconsistent findings on medication effects on brain structures.

Objectives

We will study the effect of antipsychotic medication on brain volumes in schizophrenia.

Aims

The aim of the current study was to systematically review previous literature on longitudinal MRI studies of antipsychotic effects on brain morphometric changes in schizophrenia and related psychoses.

Methods

Studies were systematically collected using four different databases. A study was included if subjects were scanned twice, the average scanning interval was at least two years and antipsychotic medication data was used to predict morphometric changes. The studies focused on several different brain areas; we categorized these into eleven larger areas.

Results

In total 22 studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria. The main finding of our study was that most of the reported correlations were statistically non-significant. The significant associations between antipsychotic use and brain changes were reported from various areas. In the studies with significant findings, use of antipsychotics more often associated with decrease than increase of brain volumes, even in the very few studies taking into account illness severity.

Conclusions

Antipsychotic medication should be adjusted to lowest possible dose for reducing psychotic symptoms and prescribed with caution especially to people not suffering from psychosis. More studies in different kind of patient populations are needed to clarify the possible adverse effect antipsychotic medication may have on brain structure.
1607 – Impaired Subjective Sleep Quality In Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients With a Type d Personality
Authors: Yıldırım O. , Alçelik A. , Canan F. , Aktaş G. , Şit M. , İşçi A. , Yalçın A. , Yılmaz E.E.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Type D (distressed) personality is defined as the co-occurrence of negative affect (NA) and social inhibition (SI).

Objectives

Although many studies have analyzed the association of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and personality traits, the effect of Type D personality on sleep quality of patients with IBS has not been evaluated.

Aims

We aimed to assess the prevalence of Type D personality in patients with and to investigate whether the presence of a Type D personality would affect subjective sleep quality in patients with IBS.

Methods

Ninety-seven patients who met the Rome III criteria for IBS with no psychiatric comorbidity were consecutively enrolled, along with 39 healthy controls. Type D Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were used in the collection of data.

Results

Of 97 patients evaluated, 45.4% met criteria for Type D personality. Thirty-five patients (36.1%) and 7 healthy volunteers (17.9%) were “poor” sleepers (p< 0.05). IBS patients with a Type D personality were found to score higher on sleep latency, sleep disturbance, and global sleep quality domains of PSQI than patients without a Type D personality. Poor sleeping was more prevalent among patients with a Type D personality than those without (50.0% vs 33.9%; p < 0.01). Linear regression analysis revealed a significant independent association of Type D personality with poor sleeping (r = 0.315; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Type D personality was associated with decreased perceived sleep quality in patients with IBS.
1609 – How First- And Second-generation Antipsychotics Differentially Improve Anterior Cingulate Cortex (acc) Function In Schizophrenic Patients - An Event-related Potential Study
Authors: Schneider S. , Bahmer T. , Metzger F. , Reif A. , Polak T. , Walter G. , Eberle M.-C. , Fallgatter A.J. , Ehlis A.-C.
Published: July 2013

Introduction/objectives

Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are a frequently and effectively used treatment in schizophrenia and psychotic disorders. Other than First-generation antipsychotics (FGAs), which mainly exert their pharmacologic effect in subcortical dopaminergic systems, SGAs additionally affect partly serotonergically innervated structures within prefrontal areas, such as the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC). However, only few controlled, randomized studies have so far investigated direct and indirect effects of SGAs on the ACC.

Aims

The present study investigated differential effects of one SGA (quetiapine) and one FGA (flupentixol) on the human action monitoring system.

Methods

ACC function in 18 quetiapine-medicated patients and 13 flupentixol-treated patients suffering from schizophrenia was assessed by means of the error-related negativity (ERN), a neurophysiological marker of ACC function, in a pre-post design. Results Between-group comparisons revealed different effects of quetiapine and flupentixol on ACC function despite similar improvement in psychopathology, cognitive performance and quality of life. Whereas SGA treatment was associated with an increase in amplitudes over time, there were prolonged ERN peak latencies in patients treated with the FGA. Moreover, treatment effects depended on baseline PFC function in both groups.

Conclusions

We conclude that both flupentixol and quetiapine improve prefrontal function especially in patients with weak initial ACC function which might be due to their shared affinity for 5HT-receptors in frontal brain regions. However, since this affinity is more pronounced for SGAs, patients treated with quetiapine seemed to profit more evidently concerning PFC function compared to patients of the flupentixol group, who exhibited a compensatory prolongation of processes.
1611 – Opiate Substitution Therapy: a Retrospective Study Of An 11-year Follow-up Depending On The Given Treatment: Methadone And/or Buprenorphine
Authors: Gay A. , Sigaud T. , Chesnoy G. , Billard S. , Lang F.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

After 50 years of international experience and 15 years of use in France, the positive impact of drug replacement treatments on the care of patients with opiates dependence is now well established. Even though there is a vast literature on the two existing treatments (methadone and high-dosage buprenorphine), few works have focused on patients who have changed replacement therapy during follow-up.

Objectives and aims

The aim of our study was to analyze the follow-up of substituted patients throughout an 11-year period. Patients were characterized by the type of treatment: methadone only, high-dosage buprenorphine only, or both treatments.

Methods

These groups of patients were studied depending on their characteristics at the beginning of the treatment (sociodemographic data, addictive behaviours, psychiatric assessment) and in terms of healthcare and follow-up regularity. We also tried to bring to light predictive factors of unstable follow-ups at the point of entry in healthcare.

Results

891 patients were included in our results. Patients having had two substitution treatments initially present with higher severity in terms of socio-professional integration, addictive behaviours and psychiatric comorbidity. Their treatment is more discontinued and they have longer healthcare.

Conclusions

Psychiatric comorbidities and poly-drug use seem to characterize unstable patients who jeopardize our treatments. They have to be identified very early in order to better adjust healthcare. This preliminary work underlines the necessity of carrying out a prospective study integrating better adapted assessment tools.
1616 – New Psychoactive Substances-herbal Smoke Mixtures. Prevalence And Problems In Latvia
Authors: Stirna A. , Skaida S. , Caune M.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

The aim of the survey is to obtain an overview of the trends in the use of herbal smoke mixtures or “Spice” among clients and the specific nature of impairments associated with them.

Materials and methods

Data on the use of “Spice” and cannabinoids have been analysed through clinical observations carried out at the Centre for Addiction Medicine and performance results of the Centre for Expertise and Toxicology over 41 months between 2009 and 2012 based on 257 individuals. Diagnosis was based on clinical and laboratory data. New psychoactive substances were identified in urine and blood, and express tests for “spice” were carried out through biochip matrix technology.

Results

In 2012 a fourfold growth of “Spice” users has been noted as compared to 2009; among them 86.8% were 27 years old and younger and 38.7% were minors. Compared to cannabinoid cases, the individuals hospitalised for acute intoxication with “Spice” statistically more frequently (p< 0.05) suffered from fear, anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, whereas frequency of psychotic manifestations and acute schizophrenia symptoms demonstrated by the two groups were similar. Among the “Spice” cases proved through laboratory testing, 66.7% had signs of intoxication with characteristic, but non-specific symptoms of the vegetative nervous system.

Conclusion

Over the past years there has been a significant growth in the consumption of “Spice”.The clinical manifestations of “Spice” are not sufficiently typical for detecting the substance without the use of laboratory tests.Safe identification of substances through the use of specific testing methods is required.
1617 – Cognitive Inhibition In Eating Disorders: Self-report Questionnaires Versus Neuropsychological Tests
Authors: Chaib L.S. , Adoue C. , Olie E. , Guillaume S. , Courtet P.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Several studies have demonstrated various neuropsychological dysfunctions in patients with EDs [1]. Among them, cognitive inhibition deficits has been studied. While Eating Disorders (ED) are characterized by difficulties to inhibit feeding behavior, there is no consensus regarding neuropsychological studies about cognitive inhibition deficits [2, 3]. The goal of this study is to examine the contribution of the type of measurement used (self-report questionnaires versus neuropsychological tests) to explain these differences between studies.

Method

Patients (ED) suffering from anorexia nervosa (AN; n=33), bulimia nervosa (BN; n=27) with no psychiatric comorbidity and free of psychotropic medication, and healthy controls (HC; n=xx) with no psychiatric history were assessed using the Hayling Test (neuropsychological test) and BIS-10 (self-report questionnaires).

Results

[1]

Significant differences in self-report questionnaires (BIS-10) were observed between ED and HC. BN showed more pronounced cognitive inhibition deficits then AN.

[2]

No significant differences in neuropsychological tests (Hayling Test) were observed between ED and HC.

Conclusion

This study confirms dissociation between measures of self-report questionnaires and neuropsychological tests of cognitive inhibition and impulsivity in people with ED.
1624 – Prospective Evaluation Of Sensorial Trainings On Body Mass Index In Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Battista M. , Celse C.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

In our medical service specialized in feeding disorders, we observed a loss of sensorial abilites (i.e., olfactory and taste). Since 2006 we proposed to adolescent anorexic patients different sensorial trainings: somesthesic, auditory and olfactory. In this scope of research, the data suggest a rehabituation to smells and taste linked to food stimuli and enhance the remember of events related to feeding behaviors.

Objectives

The use of this particular way of care focused on the oral area, lead to observe a diminution of hospitalization duration (30%). We propose an evaluation of the therapeutic impact after 6 months and one year on the basis of a main criteria the Body Mass Index.

Aims

We expected that the use of a olfactory food stimulus is associated to higher scores of pleasantness judgment and could participate to an adequate treatment of feeding disorders.

Methods

Two groups of patients were submitted to sensorial trainings: somesthesic and auditory vs somesthesic and olfactory. The sensorial trainings are conducted once a week. After 14 weeks several functions are tested (clinical, cognitive and sensorial). Sensorial evaluation consist in several judgment tasks (Liking vs Wanting) about stimuli presented visually or olfactory.

Results

Preliminary results show that olfactory perception enhance the pleasantness judgment of stimuli (e.g., flower or strawberry).