bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Growth of Streptococcus Mutans in Different Milks for Infant Feeding
Authors: Duse M. , Zicari A.M. , Berlutti F. , Ernesti I. , Occasi F. , Leonardi L. , Polimeni A.
Published: January 2017

After birth various bacterial species, mainly streptococci, colonize the oral cavity and are frequently isolated from carious lesions in children. Previous studies suggest that an earlier colonization of a child's mouth by cariogenic organisms might be related to a higher risk of caries. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of different milks for infant feeding on the growth of Streptococcus mutans (SM) colonies. Three human milk samples from three different mothers and five infant formulas were tested. To prepare the bacterial inoculum, SM was grown in Brain Heart Infusion broth for 18 hours at 37°C in microaerophilic atmosphere. The growth of SM was determined immediately after the inoculation of milks (T0) and after 24 hours (T24) of incubation. After 24 hours of incubation (ΔT= CFUs/ml at T24–CFUs/ml at T0) the bacterial growth changes were different among milks. Among the complementary milks tested, ΔT of formulas supplemented with Lactobacillus reuteri and with Bifidobacterium lactis was lower than those of non-supplemented formula. In conclusion, on the basis of the reduced SM growth in milks supplemented with probiotics, we may speculate that these formulas have a preventive effect on the development of caries in children.
Stimulation of DNA Synthesis by Interferon and Transforming Growth Factor β in EL2 Rat Fibroblasts. Role of This Effect on the Expression of an EL2-Transformed Phenoptype
Authors: Di Francesco P. , Liboi E. , Febbraro G. , Favalli C.
Published: January 2017

The proliferation of normal cells is regulated by both positive and negative growth-effects, induced by growth-stimulatory factors [e.g., Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)] and growth-inhibitory factors [e.g., Interferons (IFNs), Transforming Growth Factor β (TGFβ), Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)]. To investigate these effects, we analyzed DNA synthesis in an euploid fibroblast line (EL2), recently isolated from rat embryo, stimulated with EGF and treated with TGFβ and IFN respectively. Our results show that, in opposition to what is described for other fibroblast lines, in EL2 cells the treatment with appropriate concentrations of TGFβ or IFN did not inhibit the [3H]-thymidine incorporation induced by EGF, but, on the contrary, EGF-induced DNA synthesis was greatly stimulated by the presence of TGFβ or IFN in our cell cultures. The implications of these findings for elucidating the cellular events leading to the malignant conversion are discussed.
In Vitro Cultured Fibroblasts Irradiated by I.R. Laser: Effects Obtained Varying the Distance and the Length of Irradiation
Authors: Ricciardi G. , Continenza Maria A. , Rizzo F.M. , Rizzo G.L.
Published: January 2017

The infrared laser effects (lambda = 904 run, frequency = 1,6 KHz, intensity 3 W/cm2/min) on in vitro cultured fibroblasts were tested by varying several different parameters such as the sample - source distance, the daily exposure time and the number of days of irradiation. By varying the daily irradiation time no significant effects were obtained; the varation of the sample - source distance showed that the best stimulating results can be obtained at the distance of 10 cm.

Moreover, an increase of the cell number with respect to controls was obtained when the irradiation was repeated for a period up to 12 days.
Behavioral Responses to Amphetamine Challenge following 6-Ohda Hippocampal Lesions in Rats
Authors: Fanini Donatella , Pacitti C. , Campana Elena , Pantaleoni G. , Palumbo G. , Gasbarri Antonella
Published: January 2017

The effects of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA, 8 μ g) retrograde selective lesions of bilateral dopaminergic pathways, projecting from the ventral tegmental area of Tsai (VTA-A10) to the hippocampal formation (HF), were studied through assessment of male Sprague-Dawley rats behavior, before and following amphetamine challenge (day 15 and day 30, respectively after 6-OHDA injections). Significant differences in locomotor and exploratory activities and motor coordination were evidenced between and within groups by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). These VTA-hippocampal dopaminergic pathway lesions may provide a morphological basis for the interpretation of the psychomotor deficits shown in this study.
The Interferons in Clinical Practice
Authors: Lucivero G.
Published: January 2017

In the last decade, recombinant DNA technologies have allowed the production of highly purified interferons in virtually unlimited amounts. Therefore it has become possible to evaluate the usefulness of interferon therapy in several different diseases. Nowadays interferons have a well defined role in the therapy of infectious and malignant diseases. As these natural modifiers of biological responses are widely available to the specialist and to the general practitioner as well, in the present paper we review the main biochemical properties and the molecular mechanisms underlying the heterogeneous activities of the interferons. Furthermore, on the basis of already published therapeutical trials, we indicate the infectious and neoplastic diseases in which therapy with interferon has been effective and outline the most frequent toxic or side effects of this therapy.
Modulation of the Proliferative Response of Murine Peyer's Patch Lymphocytes by Different Peptides: CCK-8, CGRP, CCK-PZ and VIP. Preliminary Results
Authors: Cabaner C. , Boudard F. , Bastide M.
Published: January 2017

There is evidence of an innervation of the mucosal immune system by peptidergic fibers. The modulation of the mitogenic response of the murine Peyer's patch lymphocytes by several peptides present in the gastrointestinal tract, namely, the carboxy-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK-8), the entire molecule cholecystokinin-pancreozymin (CCK-PZ), the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), was studied. The proliferative response of the T lymphocytes induced by 2.5 μg/ml concanavaline A (Con A) was dose dependently inhibited by CGRP and VIP, with a maximal inhibition of 40% and 55% with 10−7 M CGRP and VIP, respectively. On the contrary, CCK-PZ exerted a significant stimulatory effect, 48% increase in thymidine incorporation being observed with 62.5 mU/ml (Crick units) CCK-PZ. CCK-8 was found to have no effect on the T cell proliferation. None of the peptides tested were able to modify the mitogenic response of Peyer's patch B lymphocytes induced by 20 μg/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS), except for CCK-PZ which induced a significant inhibition of the mitogenesis with a maximal effect of 45% inhibition at 500 mU/ml. These preliminary results show that CGRP, VIP and CCK-PZ can affect the murine Peyer's patch T and B lymphocyte response and suggest that they could be implicated in the modulation of the local immune response in the intestine.
Apoptosis Study in Thymic Involution in Tumour-Bearing Mice
Authors: Valdèz J. C. , Rachid M. , Gobbato N. , Perdigòn G.
Published: January 2017

By using a colorectal carcinoma induced by s.c. injection of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine and a transplantable fibrosarcoma developed in inbred BALB/c mice 6–8 weeks old we found that tumour development was accompanied by a remarkable thymic involution.

Mice bearing small fibrosarcoma or carcinoma (0,05 cm3) had thymuses and spleens with the same weight as those of normal mice. Thymic atrophy and splenomegalia developed in mice bearing large fibrosarcoma (5,00 cm3) and large carcinoma (0,20 cm3). Thymic involution was not the result of an increase in spontaneous cellular apoptosis. However, an increased susceptibility to apoptosis induced by etoposide was observed in thymocytes from mice bearing large carcinomas or large fibrosarcomas, as compared to the same cells derived from normal or small tumour-bearing mice. Dexamethasone induced comparable levels of apoptosis in thymocytes from all groups (normal mice, mice bearing small and large carcinoma and mice bearing small and large fibrosarcoma); doxorrubicin had no significant effect in any group.
Quantitative Evaluation of Leukocyte Infiltration into the Spinal Cord in a Model of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: Statistical-Analytical Techniques for Use in Evaluating Drugs
Authors: Chapman D. L. , Vroegop S. M. , Galinet L. A. , Ready K. A. , Dunn C. J. , Vidmar T. J. , Buxser S. E.
Published: January 2017

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is considered a useful animal model for preclinical development of drugs to treat human multiple sclerosis. The relationship between clinical disease signs and leukocyte infiltration into the lower spinal cord was studied in EAE in order to assess analytical and statistical methods for evaluating drug candidates. As expected, the degree of clinical disease was correlated with the amount of leukocyte infiltration into the lower spinal cord. Additionally, we were able to distinguish patterns of clinical signs and leukocyte infiltration for classes of recurring-remitting and progressive forms of the disease. The distributions of leukocyte infiltration sites correspond to negative binomial distributions, and the parameters calculated from the respective distributions differ significantly among disease classes. We determined the sensitivity of histological measures of the leukocyte infiltration and calculated the magnitude of differences required in order to observe statistically significant changes in leukocyte infiltration. Using immunohistochemistry to assess cell surface markers of leukocytes in the lower spinal cord, we measured the infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes and cells of the macrophage/microglial lineage stained with the monoclonal antibody, F4/80. Treatment with an anti-4 integrin monoclonal antibody, PS/2, served as an indicator of how we may expect to measure the effects of new pharmaceutical agents tested using our particular model of EAE. PS/2 treatment affected clinical signs of disease only when administered very early in the time course of the disease, despite a marked statistically significant decline in CD4+ cells regardless of when the PS/2 was administered. The analytical and statistical techniques applied here may be used to design efficient and sensitive assays for the evaluation of new drugs that may prove useful in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
Dual Cytoarchitectonic Trends: An Evolutionary Model of Frontal Lobe Functioning and Its Application to Psychopathology
Authors: Christensen Bruce K , Bilder Robert M
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To introduce and discuss an evolutionary model of frontal lobe functioning (the dual cytoarchitectonic trends theory [DTT]) and its application to understanding the neurobiology of schizophrenia and anxiety disorders.

Method:

An introduction to the DTT with respect to neural architecture, connectivity, and function is presented. In addition, neurobiologic, neuropathologic, clinical, and cognitive research supporting the application of this model to schizophrenia and anxiety disorders is reviewed.

Results:

Traditional neuropsychologic models of acquired brain damage have been limited in their ability to explain frontal lobe dysfunction and its consequences in relation to psychopathology. The DTT offers an appropriately general neural-systems framework that may be better able to account for the diversity of symptoms, widespread neuropathology, and developmental abnormalities that are associated with most forms of psychopathology.

Conclusions:

Research investigating the neurobiology of psychopathology would benefit from adopting models of brain dysfunction that are consistent with neurodevelopmental pathology and evolution. Such efforts would likely lead to a greater understanding of neurobiologic mechanisms and, ultimately, better treatment strategies.
Educating the Public about Mental Illness and Homelessness: A Cautionary Note
Authors: Tolomiczenko George S , Goering Paula N , Durbin Janet F
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To determine whether the viewing of a video depicting the successful struggles of homeless persons with mental illness in finding and maintaining housing can have a positive impact on attitudes toward homeless persons with mental illness.

Method:

Five hundred and seventy-five high school students attending a brief educational session on mental illness participated in 1 of 3 comparison versions of the 2-hour program (control, video, video plus discussion). All completed an “Attitudes toward Homelessness and Mental Illness Questionnaire.” Demographic and prior exposure variables were entered as covariates in between-group analyses of variance.

Results:

Females and subjects who had more prior encounters with homeless persons were found to have the most positive attitudes. After controlling for these effects, the video alone had a negative impact on attitudes relative to the other groups, while the video followed by a discussion with one of the people featured in it had a largely positive impact.

Conclusions:

The apparent immediacy and the evocative power of video presentations cannot substitute for direct contact for the purpose of promoting positive attitude change. The findings are consistent with prior research emphasizing the importance of direct interaction with members of stigmatized groups to reduce negative attitudes. Education programs trying to destigmatize mental illness and homelessness using videos should proceed with caution.
Antipsychotic Metabolic Effects: Weight Gain, Diabetes Mellitus, and Lipid Abnormalities
Authors: McIntyre Roger S , McCann Sonia M , Kennedy Sidney H
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To review published and nonpublished literature describing changes in weight, glucose homeostasis, and lipid milieu with antipsychotics.

Methods:

A Medline search was completed using the words weight gain, diabetes mellitus, cholesterol, triglycerides, risperidone, clozapine, olanzapine, quetiapine, ziprasidone, predictors, prolactin, obesity, and conventional antipsychotics. Publications, including original articles, review articles, letters to the editor, abstracts or posters presented at professional meetings in the last 4 years, and references from published articles, were collected. Manufacturers, including Eli Lilly Canada Inc, Janssen-Ortho Inc, Pfizer Canada Inc, AstraZeneca Inc, and Novartis Pharmaceuticals, were contacted to retrieve additional medical information.

Results:

The topic of antipsychotic-induced weight gain is understudied, and there are relatively few well-controlled studies. Weight gain as a side effect has been described with both conventional and atypical antipsychotics. Moreover, some atypical antipsychotics are associated with de novo diabetes mellitus and increased serum triglyceride levels. Predictors of weight gain may be age, baseline body mass index, appetite stimulation, previous antipsychotic exposure, and antipsychotic treatment duration.

Conclusion:

Significant weight gain is reported with the existing atypical antipsychotics. The weight gain described is highly distressing to patients, may reduce treatment adherence, and may increase the relative risk for diabetes mellitus and hypertriglyceridemia. Physicians employing these agents should routinely monitor weight, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profiles.
“Hitting” Voices of Schizophrenia Patients May Lastingly Reduce Persistent Auditory Hallucinations and Their Burden: 18-Month Outcome of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jenner Jack A , Nienhuis Fokko J , van de Willige Gerard , Wiersma Durk
Published: January 2017

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the outcome of an 18-month randomized controlled trial (RCT) on subjective burden and psychopathology of patients suffering from schizophrenia.

Method:

An RCT was used to compare hallucination-focused integrative treatment (HIT) and routine treatment (RT) in schizophrenia patients who persistently hear voices. We performed an intent-to-treat analysis on each of the 63 patients who were assessed at baseline, 9, and 18 months. On each of the 3 occasions, the differential effects of the treatment conditions were tested repeatedly. Sex, age, education, and illness (hallucination) duration were used as covariates.

Results:

Patients in the experimental group retained improvements over time. Improvements in hallucinations, distress, and negative content of voices remained significant at the 5% level.

Conclusion:

HIT seems to be an effective treatment strategy with long-lasting effects for treatment-refractory voice-hearing patients.
Prevalence of Co-Occurring Substance Use and other Mental Disorders in the Canadian Population
Authors: Rush Brian , Urbanoski Karen , Bassani Diego , Castel Saulo , Wild T Cameron , Strike Carol , Kimberley Dennis , Somers Julian
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Population health surveys around the world have studied the epidemiology of comorbid substance use disorders (SUDs) and other mental disorders as part of larger efforts to assess needs and direct integrated planning and delivery of services. This study presents the first national assessment in Canada of the prevalence of co-occurring SUDs and other mental disorders, with attention to differences by substance problem severity, sex, age, and region.

Methods:

This work is a secondary analysis of data from the 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-Being. The sample was obtained using a multistage stratified cluster design ( n = 36 984, response rate = 77%).

Results:

The 12-month population prevalence of co-occurring disorders was 1.7%. The 12-month prevalence of other mental disorders was higher among those with illicit drug, relative to alcohol, problems and among those with dependence, compared with those with less severe problems. Sex and age differences mirrored population differences in pure disorders. Salient regional differences included the higher rate of co-occurring disorders in British Columbia and the lower rates in Quebec.

Conclusions:

Cross-study comparisons are hampered by methodological differences; however, these Canadian rates are at the lower end of the range reported internationally. This might have resulted from the exclusion of several disorders known to be highly comorbid with SUDs. Nonetheless, prevalence is high in certain subgroups, and efforts under way to improve Canada's substance abuse and mental health services should continue to ensure that adequate attention is directed to the needs of people with co-occurring disorders.
The Epidemiology of Psychiatric Disorders in Quebec's Older Adult Population
Authors: Préville Michel , Boyer Richard , Grenier Sébastien , Dubé Micheline , Voyer Philippe , Punti Rosita , Baril Marie-Claire , Streiner David L , Cairney John , Brassard Joëlle ,   Scientific Committee of the ESA Study
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To document the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in Quebec's older adult population.

Method:

Data came from the Enquête sur la santé des aînés study conducted in 2005–2006 using a representative sample ( n = 2798) of community-dwelling older adults.

Results:

Our results indicate that 12.7% of the respondents met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria for depression, mania, anxiety disorders, or benzodiazepine dependency. The 12-month prevalence rate of major depression was 1.1% and the prevalence of minor depression 5.7%. A total of 5.6% of the respondents reported an anxiety disorder. The most prevalent anxiety disorders were specific phobia (2.0%), obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) (1.5%), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (1.2%). Agoraphobia without panic disorder and panic disorder were reported by 0.3% and 0.6% of the respondents, respectively. The prevalence rate of benzodiazepine dependency was 2.3%. The 12-month comorbidity prevalence rate between any psychiatric disorders was 2.2%. Among those with depressive disorder, the most frequent comorbidity was observed between minor depression and specific phobia (4.3%), GAD (4.3%), OCD (3.7%), and mania (1.3%). Further, only 39% of those having at least one active DSM-IV diagnosis reported having used health services for their psychological distress symptoms during the previous 12 months. Among those who consulted health services, 85% visited a general practitioner.

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that a large proportion of the elderly population in Quebec presents mental health needs. Longitudinal research focusing on the individual and social consequences of mental health problems reported by older adults is needed to avoid misinterpretation of this finding.
Are Personal Values of Importance in the Stigmatization of People with Mental Illness?
Authors: Norman Ross MG , Sorrentino Richard , Windell Deborah , Manchanda Rahul
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

To investigate the relation of responses to the Schwartz Value Scale to preferred social distance to a person with either schizophrenia or depression. The influence of personal value priorities on discrimination has been investigated in several contexts, but seldom with reference to social distance towards those with mental illness.

Method:

University students ( n = 200) completed the Schwartz Value Scale, as well as a measure of beliefs about mental illness and preferred social distance with reference to a vignette describing a person with either schizophrenia or depression.

Results:

Consistent with past findings, respondents indicated a preference for greater social distance for schizophrenia than depression, and beliefs about likelihood of socially inappropriate behaviour and danger were correlated with social distance. Self-transcendence value orientation was a significant independent predictor of preference for less social distance. These findings were not influenced by a social desirability bias.

Conclusions:

Value orientation makes a significant contribution to the prediction of social distance towards those with mental illness. Evaluation of value-based interventions to reduce such discrimination appears warranted.
Teen Suicide Information on the Internet: A Systematic Analysis of Quality
Authors: Szumilas Magdalena , Kutcher Stan
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To synthesize the literature on youth suicide risk factors (RFs) and prevention strategies (PSs); evaluate quality of information regarding youth suicide RFs and PSs found on selected Canadian websites; determine if website source was related to evidence-based rating (EBR); and determine the association of website quality indicators with EBR.

Methods:

Five systematic reviews of youth suicide research were analyzed to assemble the evidence base for RFs and PSs. The top 20 most commonly accessed youth suicide information websites were analyzed for quality indicators and EBR. Univariate logistic regression was conducted to determine if quality indicators predicted statements supported by evidence (SSEs). Multivariate analysis was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios for SSEs and quality indicators.

Results:

Only 44.2% of statements were SSEs. The 10 most highly ranked websites contained almost 80% of the total statements analyzed, and one-half had a negative EBR. Compared with government websites, nonprofit organization websites were more likely (OR 1.45, 95% CI 0.66 to 3.18), and personal and media websites were less likely (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.47), to have a positive EBR. Crediting of an author (AOR 2.65, 95% CI 1.34 to 5.28), and recommendation to consult a health professional (AOR 2.08, 95% CI 1.18 to 3.68), increased the odds of SSEs.

Conclusions:

Fundamental to addressing youth suicide is the availability of high-quality, evidence-based information accessible to the public, health providers, and policy-makers. Many websites, including those sponsored by the federal government and national organizations, need to improve the evidence-based quality of the information provided.
Neuroimaging in Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Beyond the Frontostriatal Circuitry
Authors: Cherkasova Mariya V , Hechtman Lily
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

To review the findings of structural and functional neuroimaging studies in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with a focus on abnormalities reported in brain regions that lie outside the frontostriatal circuitry, which is currently believed to play a central role in the pathophysiology of ADHD.

Methods:

Relevant publications were found primarily by searching the MEDLINE and PubMed databases using the keywords ADHD and the abbreviations of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional MRI, positron emission tomography, and single photon emission computed tomography. The reference lists of the articles found through the databases were then reviewed for the purpose of finding additional articles.

Results:

There is now substantial evidence of structural and functional alterations in regions outside the frontostriatal circuitry in ADHD, most notably in the cerebellum and the parietal lobes.

Conclusions:

Although there is compelling evidence suggesting that frontostriatal dysfunction may be central to the pathophysiology of ADHD, the neuroimaging findings point to distributed neural substrates rather than a single one. More research is needed to elucidate the nature of contributions of nonfrontostriatal regions to the pathophysiology of ADHD.
Psychopathy: Assessment and Forensic Implications
Authors: Hare Robert D , Neumann Craig S
Published: January 2017

Psychopathy is commonly viewed as a personality disorder defined by a cluster of interpersonal, affective, lifestyle, and antisocial traits and behaviours, including grandiosity, egocentricity, deceptiveness, shallow emotions, lack of empathy or remorse, irresponsibility, impulsivity, and a tendency to violate social norms. In our article, we outline standard methods for the assessment of psychopathy, its association with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), and its implications for clinical and forensic issues, including crime and violence, risk assessment, and treatment options.
Challenges and Opportunities in Measuring the Quality of Mental Health Care
Authors: Kilbourne Amy M , Keyser Donna , Pincus Harold Alan
Published: January 2017

The purpose of our paper is to delineate the barriers to mental health quality measurement, and to identify strategies to enhance the development and use of quality measures by mental health providers, programs, payers, and other stakeholders in the service of improving outcomes for people with mental health and substance use disorders. Key reasons for the lag in mental health performance measurement include lack of sufficient evidence regarding appropriate mental health care, poorly defined quality measures, limited descriptions of mental health services from existing clinical data, and lack of linked electronic health information. We discuss strategies for overcoming these barriers that are being implemented in several countries, including the need to have quality improvement as part of standard clinical training curricula, refinement of technologies to promote adequate data capture of mental health services, use of incentives to promote provider accountability for improving care, and the need for mental health researchers to improve the evidence base for mental health treatment.
Frequency and Correlates of Gambling Problems in Outpatients with Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Kennedy Sidney H , Welsh Brenda R , Fulton Kari , Soczynska Joanna K , McIntyre Roger S , O'Donovan Claire , Milev Roumen , le Melledo Jean-Michel , Bisserbe Jean-Claude , Zimmerman Mark , Martin Neasa
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To investigate the frequency of gambling in people who have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar disorder (BD). Secondary objectives were to examine: sex differences in the rates of gambling behaviour, the temporal relation between onset of mood disorders and problem gambling, psychiatric comorbidities associated with problem gambling, and the influences of problem gambling on quality of life.

Method:

People (aged 18 years and older) who met criteria for lifetime Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision-defined MDD or BD I or II, and were confirmed by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, were enrolled. Participants were recruited from 5 sites in Canada and 1 in the United States. Prevalence of past-year problem gambling was assessed with the Canadian Problem Gambling Index. Associated comorbidities with problem gambling are presented.

Results:

A total of 579 participants were enrolled (female: n = 379, male: n = 200). Prevalence of problem gambling did not differ significantly between the MDD (12.5%) and the BD (12.3%) groups. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of problem gambling between males (19.5%) and females (7.8%) in the BD group (χ2 = 8.695, df = 1, P = 0.003). Among people meeting criteria for problem gambling, the mood disorder was the primary onset condition in 71% of cases. People with a mood disorder with comorbid current panic disorder (OR = 1.96; 95% CI 1.02 to 3.75), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OR = 1.86; 95% CI 1.01 to 3.45), specific phobia (OR = 2.36; 95% CI 1.17 to 4.76), alcohol dependence (OR = 5.73; 95% CI 3.08 to 10.65), or lifetime substance dependence (OR = 2.05; 95% CI 1.17 to 3.58), had significantly increased odds of problem gambling. Problem gambling across MDD and BD populations was also associated with lower quality of life ratings.

Conclusion:

These results reaffirm a higher prevalence of gambling both in BD and in MDD populations, compared with previously published community samples. Our study also identifies risk factors for gambling behaviours within these populations.
Improving Reliability of the Assessment of the Life Course of Schizophrenia
Authors: Thompson Angus H , Newman Stephen C , Orn Helene , Bland Roger C
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Life course studies of schizophrenia that have used a 3-phase model (onset, course, and outcome) have had their use restricted owing to differences in definition and methodology. The purpose of this investigation was to describe life course data in mathematical terms and to compare the results with the findings from other life course studies.

Method:

The study population was comprised of 128 of 137 people who were first admitted for schizophrenia to 1 of the 2 mental hospitals in Alberta in 1963 and followed until 1997 or death. Patient evaluations were based on retrospective and contemporaneous information collected from the patients and hospital files, treatment records, and family members. Mathematically derived ratings were formulated for course, outcome, and onset (pre-admission years). The distribution of the resulting 8 life course types was compared with profiles drawn from other such studies reported in the literature.

Results:

The use of mathematical descriptions of onset, course, and outcome produced profiles that did not closely match the results of other investigations, largely owing to inconsistency across studies. Further, the present approach to outcome measurement produced results that were less favourable than those found in other studies.

Conclusions:

Studies on the life course of schizophrenia could be made more comparable by specifying mathematically expressed operational definitions of onset, course, and outcome. Nonetheless, the use of the term outcome can be questioned as it implies an assessment at a specific time rather than providing a summary statement of the quality of a life.
Schizophrenia and Cancer: In 2010 Do We Understand the Connection?
Authors: Bushe Chris J , Hodgson Richard
Published: January 2017

Objective:

In recent years, there has been a plethora of cancer mortality and incidence data reported in schizophrenia. Despite this, there has been little focus on cancer in schizophrenia guidelines. Additionally, there have been suggestions that schizophrenia may provide inherent protection against cancer. The goal of this review is to establish, using recent data, the incidence and mortality rates for cancer in schizophrenia.

Method:

We identified systematic reviews and meta-analyses and undertook a search using the Medical Subject Headings' entry terms schizophrenia and neoplasm.

Results:

Incidence and mortality rates for cancer in schizophrenia are increased, compared with relevant general populations. Data are not uniformly reported and cohort ages tend to be young for expected cancer incidence. Despite the young cohort ages, the incidence of the major cancers—lung and breast—are substantially increased. Confounders are often not measured in the epidemiologic databases. When lung cancer is adjusted for smoking rates, there appears to be a lower risk of lung cancer than expected providing some basis to support an inherently reduced risk of cancer. There may also be a dissonance between incidence and mortality rates that suggest a prejudice against either diagnosis or treatment of these vulnerable patients.

Conclusion:

A single definitive study of schizophrenia and cancer is unfeasible, and future research will lean heavily on systematic review and meta-analysis. Researchers should report cancer data to include age and follow-up data and cohort overlap. Cancer accounts for almost an equivalent mortality as cardiovascular disease.
The Relation between Adolescent Social Competence and Young Adult Delinquency and Educational Attainment among At-Risk Youth: The Mediating Role of Peer Delinquency
Authors: Stepp Stephanie D , Pardini Dustin A , Loeber Rolf , Morris Nancy A
Published: January 2017

Objective:

We examined trajectories of adolescent social competence as a resilience factor among at-risk youth. To examine potential mechanisms of this resilience process, we investigated the putative mediating effect of peer delinquency on the relation between adolescent social competence and young adult delinquency seriousness and educational attainment.

Method:

Participants ( n = 257) were screened to be at risk for antisocial behaviour at age 13 years. Data were derived from an ongoing longitudinal study of the development of antisocial and delinquent behaviour among inner-city boys, the Pittsburgh Youth Study. We used data collected from participants when aged 13 years until they were aged 25.5 years for our study.

Results:

Results indicated that boys with high levels of social competence decreased their involvement with deviant peers throughout adolescence, which, in turn, predicted less serious forms of delinquency in early adulthood. Social competence had a direct effect on educational attainment in early adulthood, as boys who developed social competencies in adolescence went further in school irrespective of their involvement with delinquent peers.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that promoting the development of social competencies and reducing involvement with delinquent peers will protect at-risk youth from engaging in serious delinquency in early adulthood while increasing their educational success.
Nonpharmacological Treatment of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Ballard Clive , Khan Zunera , Clack Hannah , Corbett Anne
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To review the key nonpharmacological treatment approaches to the cognitive and functional symptoms of Alzheimer disease (AD).

Methods:

We searched and critically analyzed the most recent relevant literature pertaining to the nonpharmacological treatment of AD.

Results:

There is evidence from a modest number of well-conducted randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that various nonpharmacological approaches, including cognitive training, cognitive rehabilitation, and cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), confer modest but significant benefits in the treatment of cognitive symptoms in people with AD, and that there may be additive benefits in combination with cholinesterase inhibitor therapy. Cognitive rehabilitation also appears to result in functional benefits in AD. The modest number of RCTs focusing on cognitive training in AD is consistent with the results of larger cognitive training trials in healthy older people. However, there is no convincing evidence of any benefits associated with brain training games.

Conclusion:

An emerging evidence base indicates that different approaches to cognitive training and cognitive stimulation in people with AD confer modest but significant benefits. The best evidence base is for CST, although this approach is labour-intensive, and requires further evaluation of cost-effectiveness. There is currently no evidence that brain training games provide any significant benefit to people with AD.
The Pharmacoepidemiology of Antipsychotics for Adults with Schizophrenia in Canada, 2005 to 2009
Authors: Pringsheim Tamara , Lam Darren , Tano David S , Patten Scott B
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To describe the frequency and trends in the use of antipsychotics for adults with schizophrenia in Canada from 2005 to 2009.

Methods:

Analyses were performed on IMS Brogan's Canadian Disease and Therapeutic Index (CDTI). The CDTI is a national physician panel study consisting of a representative sample of physicians both geographically and by specialty. Weighting adjustments are made to estimate national drug recommendations. Quarterly, panel physicians record all therapeutic recommendations during a 2-day period, including patient age, sex, and indication. Antipsychotic recommendations were estimated using CDTI data in which schizophrenia was listed as the indication.

Results:

First-generation antipsychotic (FGA) recommendations for adults with schizophrenia increased by 38% between 2005 and 2009, from 329 380 to 454 960 recommendations. There were notable increases in recommendations for chlorpromazine, loxapine, zuclopenthixol, and flupentixol. Second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) recommendations increased to a much lesser extent (9%), which was mostly attributable to an increase in recommendations for clozapine. Drug recommendations for olanzapine decreased by 9%.

Conclusion:

The rate of increase of FGA use is now greater than that of SGAs. This may be due to data from recent comparative trials, which suggest that clinical efficacy, and the rate of neurological side effects is similar between FGAs and SGAs. The decreasing use of olanzapine may be due to metabolic adverse effects. The increased use of clozapine may be due to data on its superiority in patients who are treatment resistant.
Substances Used in Completed Suicide by Overdose in Toronto: An Observational Study of Coroner's Data
Authors: Sinyor Mark , Howlett Andrew , Cheung Amy H , Schaffer Ayal
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To identify the substances used by people who die from suicide by overdose in Toronto and to determine the correlates of specific categories of substances used.

Method:

Coroner's records for all cases of suicide by overdose in Toronto, Ontario, during a 10-year period (1998 to 2007) were examined. Data collected included demographic data, all substances detected, and those determined by the coroner to have caused death. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine demographic and clinical factors associated with suicide by different drug types.

Results:

There were 397 documented suicides by overdose (mean age 49.1 years, 50% female). Most substances detected were psychotropic prescription medications ( n = 245), followed by other prescription medications ( n = 143) and over-the-counter (OTC) medications ( n = 83). More than one-half of all suicides by overdose were determined to have only one specifc substance as the cause of death ( n = 206). In suicides where only one class of substance was present in lethal amounts, OTC medication ( n = 48), opioid analgesics ( n = 44), and tricyclic antidepressants ( n = 44) were most common.

Conclusions:

Suicides by overdose involved the use of different classes of substances, including psychotropic prescription medication, other prescription medications, as well as OTC medications. Physicians and pharmacists should be aware of commonly used prescription and OTC medications in overdose and exercise increased vigilance in prescribing or dispensing them to at-risk patients.
Second-Generation Antipsychotics for the Treatment of Disruptive Behaviour Disorders in Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pringsheim Tamara , Gorman Daniel
Published: January 2017

Objective:

The use of second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) in youth has increased considerably. Increases are mainly attributable to treatment of disruptive behaviour disorders (DBDs). Our objective was to review the evidence regarding the efficacy of SGAs for DBDs in youth.

Method:

We performed a systematic review of all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of SGAs and placebo for the treatment of DBDs in youth, focusing on efficacy data.

Results:

Eight RCTs in youth with DBDs were included. Five RCTs evaluated the use of risperidone in youth with the combination of subaverage-borderline IQ and disruptive behaviour-aggression. Single RCTs evaluated the use of risperidone for treatment-resistant aggression in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and for the treatment of conduct disorder (CD), and a single RCT evaluated the use of quetiapine for adolescent CD. The efficacy results of each of these studies are described.

Conclusion:

Four placebo-controlled studies support the short-term efficacy of low-dose risperidone in youth with a subaverage IQ. Placebo-controlled evidence is weak or nonexistent for SGAs other than risperidone, and is weak in youth with an average IQ. Multiple factors likely account for the disconnect between this limited evidence base and the frequent use of SGAs for DBDs in clinical practice. These include extrapolation from studies in youth with autism or a subaverage IQ to normally developing youth; ease of SGA titration and the mistaken perception that little monitoring is required; unavailability of psychosocial treatments; limited familiarity with other pharmacological options; clinical and cultural norms; and the influence of the pharmaceutical industry.
Electronic Media Use and Addiction among Youth in Psychiatric Clinic versus School Populations
Authors: Baer Susan , Saran Kelly , Green David A , Hong Irene
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Electronic media use is highly prevalent among today's youth, and its overuse in the general population has been consistently associated with the presence of psychiatric symptoms. In contrast, little information exists about electronic media use among youth with psychiatric disorders. Our study aims to compare patterns of television and computer and gaming station use among youth in psychiatric clinic and community-based school populations.

Method:

Surveys were completed by 210 youth and parents, from school ( n = 110) and psychiatric clinic ( n = 100) populations. Duration and frequency of television, video gaming, and nongaming computer activities were ascertained, along with addictive features of use. Descriptive and comparative analyses were conducted, with a statistical threshold of P < 0.05.

Results:

Quantitative and qualitative differences were identified between the patterns of use reported by the 2 groups. The mean reported daily duration of exposure to electronic media use was 6.6 hours (SD 4.1) for the clinic sample and 4.6 hours (SD 2.6) for the school sample (P < 0.01). Self-reported rates of addictive patterns related to computer and gaming station use were similar between the 2 populations. However, the clinically based sample favoured more violent games, with 29% reporting playing mature-rated games, compared with 13% reported by the school-based sample ( P = 0.02). Youth with externalizing disorders expended greater time video gaming, compared with youth with internalizing disorders ( P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

Clinically based samples of youth with mental illnesses spend more time engaged in electronic media activities and are more likely to play violent video games, compared with youth in the general population. Further research is needed to determine the long-term implications of these differences.
Age at Immigration to Canada and the Occurrence of Mood, Anxiety, and Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Patterson Beth , Kyu Hmwe Hmwe , Georgiades Katholiki
Published: January 2017

Objective:

The process of migration and resettlement has been associated with increased risk for psychiatric illness. Our study sought to examine the association between age at immigration and risk for mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders (SUDs) among adult immigrants in Canada.

Method:

Data from the Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-Being, a cross-sectional study of psychiatric disorder conducted in 2002, was used to identify a representative sample of adult immigrants in Canada ( n = 4946). Logistic regression was used to examine the association between age at immigration (0 to 5 years, 6 to 17 years, and 18 years and older) and 12-month prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders, and SUDs.

Results:

Immigrants who arrived prior to age 6 years reported the highest risk for mood (OR 3.41; 95% CI 1.7 to 7.0) and anxiety disorders (OR 6.89; 95% CI 3.5 to 13.5), compared with those who immigrated at the age of 18 years or older, after adjusting for covariates, including duration of residence.

Conclusions:

Younger age at immigration was associated with increased risk of having a current mood disorder, anxiety disorder, or SUD. These findings speak to the importance of developing and evaluating targeted prevention programs for young immigrant children and adolescents.
A Targeted Review of the Neurobiology and Genetics of Behavioural Addictions: An Emerging Area of Research
Authors: Leeman Robert F , Potenza Marc N
Published: January 2017

This review summarizes neurobiological and genetic findings in behavioural addictions, draws parallels with findings pertaining to substance use disorders, and offers suggestions for future research. Articles concerning brain function, neurotransmitter activity, and family history and (or) genetic findings for behavioural addictions involving gambling, Internet use, video game playing, shopping, kleptomania, and sexual activity were reviewed. Behavioural addictions involve dysfunction in several brain regions, particularly the frontal cortex and striatum. Findings from imaging studies incorporating cognitive tasks have arguably been more consistent than cue-induction studies. Early results suggest white and grey matter differences. Neurochemical findings suggest roles for dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, but results from clinical trials seem more equivocal. While limited, family history and genetic data support heritability for pathological gambling and that people with behavioural addictions are more likely to have a close family member with some form of psychopathology. Parallels exist between neurobiological and genetic and family history findings in substance and nonsubstance addictions, suggesting that compulsive engagement in these behaviours may constitute addictions. To date, findings are limited, particularly for shopping, kleptomania, and sexual behaviour. Genetic understandings are at an early stage. Future research directions are offered.
Substance-Related Cravings and Relapses: Clinical Implications
Authors: el-Guebaly Nady , Hodgins David
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To review the implications of current research on clinical practice.

Method:

An examination of the literature over the last 10 years and the data from our own study group.

Results:

A synopsis of current psychobiological and psychological conceptual underpinnings of the nature and process of cravings and relapses among substance-dependent individuals is presented. The biopsychosocial dimensions of the clinical assessment of craving components, relapse patterns, and predictors, including relevant instruments, are explored. The panoply of management strategies for cravings and relapses encompasses cue exposure treatment techniques, relapse prevention approaches, anticraving and psychotropic medication, family involvement, and twelve-step programs.

Conclusion:

A clinician's familiarity with these strategies should contribute significantly to the transformation of the sense of failure engendered by a patient's relapse into a constructive challenge and opportunity.