bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2205 – Working Memory Dependent Prefrontal-parietal Connectivity And Model-based Diagnostic Classification In Schizophrenia
Authors: Deserno L. , Brodersen K. , Lin Z. , Penny W.D. , Heinz A. , Stephan K.E. , Schlagenhauf F.
Published: July 2013

Impaired working memory (WM) is among the best-established findings in schizophrenia. Nevertheless, functional neuroimaging studies on WM yielded inconsistent results. Disrupted functional integration in the WM network may explain neural inefficiency more precisely. This so-called ‘dysconnectivity’-hypothesis of schizophrenia focuses on abnormal synaptic plasticity.

In a step towards pathophysiologically informed diagnostic classification schemes, the recent introduction of “generative embedding” procedures to neuroimaging offers the combination of neurobiologically interpretable generative models (e.g. DCMs) and support vector machines (SVM) for diagnostic classification.

This fMRI study in 41 schizophrenia patients and 42 healthy controls presents four major results:

1)

Across controls and patients, prefrontal activation is modulated by WM performance resulting in an inverted U-curve.

2)

DCM of the prefrontal-parietal WM network demonstrated that WM-dependent prefrontal to parietal connectivity is reduced in all patients independent of WM performance.

3)

Classification in a supervised setting using generative embedding yielded 78% accuracy. Using model-based clustering in an unsupervised fashion performed almost equally well (71% accuracy).

4)

Subclustering schizophrenia patients revealed three distinct subgroups of patients. These subgroups exhibited different profiles of prefrontal-parietal connectivity and, critically, were found to differ significantly in clinical symptoms.

This study reveals putative mechanisms underlying prefrontal inefficiency and cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, providing direct experimental evidence for the dysconnectivity hypothesis. A novel model-based clustering approach revealed three distinct subgroups of patients with unique connectivity profiles and significant differences in clinical ratings. This translational approach may help to identify specific factors underlying the variability of treatment responses and to develop subgroup-specific treatment approaches.
2207 – Factors Associated With Burnout In General Medicine: The Effect Of The Type Of Practice. a Brussels Study
Authors: Dagrada H. , Kornreich C. , Snacken J. , Ledoux Y.
Published: July 2013

The risk factors associated with burnout in general medicine remain poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify the risk factors involved. General physicians (GPs) (n = 84) responded to a three-part questionnaire focusing on personal and professional data, and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The results indicated that the type of practice was not a risk factor for burnout. However, emotional isolation, but not isolation in the workplace, constituted a risk factor. Particular attention should be paid to the individual characteristics of GPs.
2212 – Again Starting
Authors: Gordillo Montaño M.J. , Martinez Anguita M.A. , Guillén Guillén E. , Ramirez Domínguez M.C. , Alonso Díaz R.
Published: July 2013

In a situation of imminent discharge with a serious problem such as no adherence, vague and imprecise concept of the concept of psychosis, poor support and family support, poor social relationships and social skills, little emotional resonance and leave the residence, what do we do?

In this case we opted for patient referral to a rehabilitation unit as the TC. This is where targets are raised to make an Individual treatment plan: improving disease awareness and treatment adherence, family information about the disease, extend relationships and use of leisure time, reduction of negative symptoms and residential support.

The patient is 32 years old, daughter of separated parents, diagnosed schizophrenic psychosis with 7 hospital admissions in the last 9 years. The disease is associated with the consumption of toxic. There are changes in the character, family relationship problems, clinical delusional and hallucinatory behavior disorders with numerous leaks of the home and making marginal life. Prior to the TC is trying two leads to Area Rehabilitation Unit with treatment failure after cessation of medication. After two years of follow up in TC have achieved most of the objectives proposed at the beginning, normalizing, as far as possible, the life of the patient.
2218 – Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Gene Polymorphism (val66met) And The Response To Escitalopram In Depression
Authors: El-Hage W.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene is a candidate gene for influencing the clinical response to treatment with antidepressants.

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of 3 and 6 weeks of escitalopram treatment in depressed patients subdivided according to the treatment response.

Methods

We included 188 French subjects with depression, 153 completed a 6-week treatment with escitalopram (10–20 mg/d). Clinical evaluation was performed using the Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) before treatment and after 3 and 6 weeks of treatment.

Results

At 3 weeks of escitalopram treatment, the Met carriers had increased antidepressant response in comparison to Val/Val homozygotes. No significant clinical difference between genotype groups remained at 6 weeks of escitalopram treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings further support that the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor gene polymorphism (Val66Met) may play a role in antidepressant treatment response phenotypes in mood depressive episode.
2222 – Comprehensive Therapeuric Rehabilitation
Authors: Guillén E. , Ramírez Domínguez M.C. , Alonso Díaz R. , Gordillo Montaño M.J. , Martinez Anguita M.A.
Published: July 2013

Addressing the psychosocial rehabilitation of mental health patients, can be approached in various ways. In this case illustrates how a multidisciplinary approach so early impact on rehabilitation os psychiatric illness.

Patient is a woman of 45 years, starting in mental health in 1989 and with five entries in the inpatient psychiatric unit between 2006–2011, with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. During this period has come to irregularly shaped mental health unit, with poor adherence therapeutics and instability in their symtoms, without being able to normalize their mood. Has presented several manic episodes with psychotic symptoms and depressive episodes.

Treatment begins with a comprehensive approach: psychiatry, psychology, social work, and assistant nursing.

Treatment objectives were: raise awareness of disease, adherence and development and expansion of social skills in order to reduce the number of admissions and achieve clinical stabilization.

Included in the treatment psychoeducational group therapy, activities and social skills workshops and home visits. Therefore, we emphasize the importance of integrative treatment in the rehabilitation of this patient and the approach of this type of intervention to detect these cases.
2230 – Preliminary Validation Study Of Portuguese Version Of Cancer Coping Questionnaire
Authors: Torres A. , Pereira A. , Monteiro S.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

There is some evidence that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in serious illness does work through its impact on coping. Cancer Coping Questionnaire (CCQ) was originally developed to assess coping strategies taught in CBT.

Objectives

In this work the preliminary study of the psychometric characteristics of CCQ in a sample of breast cancer Portuguese women is described.

Aims

We purpose to evaluate psychometric characteristics of CCQ in a Portuguese sample, namely: internal consistency, test-retest reliability and concurrent validity.

Methods

The convenience sample included 189 breast cancer patients, who fulfill CCQ and the following measures: Courtauld Emotional Control Scale (CEC); Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire and the Questionnaire Breast Cancer Module (EORTC QLQC30 and BR-23). CCQ was used in two moments of assessment, the second moment after 2 months of the first.

Results

It was obtained a Cronbach alpha of .80. The test-retest reliability show significant statistical positive correlations (rS = .59, p = .000 for individual sub-scale and rS = 65, p = .000 for interpersonal sub-scale). Significant statistical correlations between CCQ and the other measures used were also obtained.

Conclusions

The validation of the Portuguese CCQ has good psychometric proprieties of internal consistency and test-retest reliability with Portuguese breast cancer women. This instrument also demonstrated to be correlated with other assessment tools used with this population. We conclude that CCQ is a useful and a valid scale for assess the evolution of coping strategies with cancer. Future studies should include other populations.
2240 – Simple And Multiple Relationships Between Assertiveness, Sensation Seeking, Alexithymia And Addiction Potential In University Students
Authors: Alayi Z.
Published: July 2013

Alexithymia components (difficulty identifying feelings, externality oriented thinking and difficulty describing) and addiction potential in university students. Two hundred and fifty students were selected by cluster sampling from Shahid Chamran University, Ahvaz, Iran. The scales used for this descriptive study were the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), the Assertiveness Self-Report Inventory (ASRI), the Arnett inventory of sensation seeking, and the Iranian Addiction Potential Scale (IAPS). Data were analyzed with statistical analyzer software SPSS-ver. 16. There were simple and multiple relationships between assertiveness, sensation seeking, Alexithymia, difficulty identifying feelings, externality oriented thinking and difficulty describing and addiction potential. Multiple regression analysis (stepwise method) showed that sensation seeking, difficulty identifying feelings and assertiveness had significant multiple correlations with addiction potential (F=24.25, p< 0.001). The variables of externality oriented thinking and difficulty describing feelings were eliminated by the regression analysis. Variables such as sensation seeking, difficulty identifying feelings and assertiveness predicted addiction potential among university students. The most important implication of this research was to pay attention scientifically to these variables as the fundamental factors of this difficulty, rather than just emphasizing the cessation of drug or alcohol using.
2243 – Externalizing Problems In Young Foster Children: Prevalence Rates, Predictors And Service Use
Authors: Vanschoonlandt F. , Vanderfaeillie J. , Van Holen F. , De Maeyer S. , Robberechts M.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Examining the prevalence of externalizing problems, its predictors and the mental health service use for these problems by foster children and foster parents in a representative group of foster children aged 3 to 12 in Flanders.

Method

Survey data were collected on 212 foster children, who had been in the foster family for approximately four months. Foster parents filled out a Child Behavior Checklist to measure foster children’s externalizing problems. Foster care workers reported on several potential risk variables for externalizing problems and on foster children's and foster parent's mental health service use. Predictors of externalizing problems were identified from a large number of variables using the method of purposeful selection of variables in logistic regression.

Results

40.6% of the foster children had externalizing problems. Foster children who were placed because of behavioral problems and whose parents received home based family support prior to the out-of-home placement had more externalizing problems. Only 20.9% of the foster children with externalizing problems and only 13.9% of their foster parents received professional help.

Conclusions

This study showed that externalizing problems are prevalent in this young foster care population, that it is hard to predict which foster children had externalizing problems, and that foster children and their foster parents rarely receive services for these problems. These findings call for a standard protocol of assessment of foster children’s externalizing problems. Moreover, from a preventive viewpoint, guidelines are needed to systematically link young foster children with externalizing problems and their foster parents to appropriate services.
2247 – Manic Episode In An Elderly Patient Secondary To The Application Of Corticosteroid Eye Drops: a Case Report
Authors: Mok V.W.L. , Malladi S.S.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

An eighty-one-year-old lady presented with mood changes within days of the commencement of prednisolone eye drops, which was prescribed following a cataract operation. She had a history of chronic schizophrenia, with one previous episode of hypomania in the early1990s. She was admitted to our institution on this occasion, with symptoms including elated mood, disinhibition, insomnia, pressured speech, flight of ideas and grandiose ideation. This was a distinctly different presentation from her previous relapses and the duration of this episode was prolonged. Her symptoms persisted despite an aggressive titration of psychotropic medications. After a review of her medication, the possible causal relationship between the prednisolone eye drops and manic episode was made. As the steroid eye drops were necessary following her eye operation, we allowed the completion of its course. Within days of its discontinuation, we saw a dramatIc improvement in her mental state and she was discharged. She currently remains in remission two months from the cessation of prednisolone.

Discussion

The postulation that the prednisolone eye drops triggered this manic episode can be substantiated by the clear observation that her symptoms completely resolved after the steroid course was completed. This appeared to be the one single factor which coincided with the emergence, maintenance and termination of her symptoms. Steroid-induced psychiatric symptoms are a well documented phenomenon, but are typically seen with higher doses and systemic administration of corticosteroids. This case report is of a rare presentation, and to our knowledge there are no similar cases described.
2249 – Efficacy And Safety Of 3 Agomelatine Dose Regimens (10, 25, 25-50 Mg) Versus Placebo In Out-patients Suffering From Moderate To Severe Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Kennedy S.H. , Avedisova A.
Published: July 2013

The present analysis assesses the 6-week antidepressant efficacy and safety of 3 agomelatine dose regimens of (10, 25, 25-50 mg) versus placebo in out-patients suffering from moderate to severe Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). In this phase III, multicentre, international, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 549 patients were randomized in four parallel groups: agomelatine 10 mg (n=133), agomelatine 25 mg (n=138), agomelatine 25 mg -50 mg (n=137) or placebo (n=141). In the 25-50 mg group, a dose up-titration in blinded conditions to 50 mg at week 2 was done if insufficient improvement.

In the FAS (N=547), at last post-baseline assessment, there were significant and incremental differences (E(SE)) on mean HAM-D total score in favor of each agomelatine dose vs placebo: 10 mg - 2.46(0.76) (p=0.001); 25 mg - 4.71 (0.75) (p< 0.0001); 25-50 mg - 4.92 (0.76) (p< 0.0001).

The response rate (decrease in HAM-D total score = 50% from baseline) was higher on each agomelatine group: 40.9% on 10 mg, 50.7% on 25 mg, 52.2% on 25-50 mg than on placebo (24.8%), p=0.005, p< 0.0001 and p< 0.0001 respectively. There were less study discontinuation on agomelatine 10 mg, 25 mg and 25-50 mg than on placebo (7.5%, 5.8%, 8.0% and 10.6% respectively) and few discontinuations for adverse events (0.8%, 0.7% and 0.7% respectively) vs none on placebo. The most frequent emergent adverse events on agomelatine (in at least 5% of patients in any agomelatine groups) were headache and nausea.

These results demonstrate antidepressant efficacy at 3 dose regimens of agomelatine (10, 25, 25-50 mg) in MDD patients.
2251 – Cortical And Subcortical Gene-expression Imaging By Different n-methyl-daspartate Receptor (nmda-r) Antagonists At Glutammatergic Synapses: Implications For Dopamine-glutamate Interplay In Psychoses
Authors: Avvisati L. , Rossi R. , Latte G. , Buonaguro E.F. , Eramo A. , Marmo F. , Tomasetti C. , Sarappa C. , Iasevoli F. , de Bartolomeis A.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

According to the NMDA-R hypofunction hypothesis of psychosis, the administration of certain antagonists at NMDA-R, such as ketamine, may exacerbate psychotic symptoms in humans and provide a preclinical model of psychosis. Both ketamine and antipsychotic drugs induce molecular changes in genes of the post-synaptic density (PSD), involved in glutamate signaling and dopamine-glutamate interplay.

Memantine, an antagonist/partial agonist at NMDA-Rs with procognitive properties, has been proposed as an adjunctive treatment for schizophrenia.

Aims

We tested the hypothesis that memantine and propsychotic NMDA-Rs antagonists (ketamine and MK-801) may elicit divergent molecular changes at glutamatergic synapses.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats were treated by:

1)

vehicle;

2)

MK-801 0.8 mg/kg;

3)

memantine 5 mg/kg;

4)

ketamine 25 mg/kg;

5)

ketamine 50 mg/kg.

We compared, by in situ hybridization histochemistry, the expression of PSD genes in cortical and striatal brain regions.

Results

Homer1a expression was significantly induced by ketamine 25 mg/kg and reduced by MK-801 in striatum and cortex. Arc expression was significantly induced by ketamine and memantine in the cortex and by MK-801 in nucleus accumbens. Homer1b/c expression was significantly decreased by ketamine compared to vehicle in motor cortex and dorsolateral striatum. PSD-95 expression was significantly decreased by MK-801 compared to vehicle in all striatal regions and by ketamine in dorsomedial striatum.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that NMDA-Rs antagonists with different pharmacological properties trigger different molecular changes at glutamatergic synapses. These results are consistent with the different clinical profiles of these compounds and with the observation that NMDA-R blockade is not necessarily associated to psychosis exacerbation.
2253 – Long-term Consequences Of Childhood Abuse: Effects On Mental Health
Authors: Al-Modallal H.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Childhood abuse is inherited in families and mainly associated with poor physical and mental health. Its association with mental health problems in adulthood is not well-studied in Jordanian women.

Aim

This study aimed at examining the relationship between history of childhood abuse and experiences of mental health problems in Jordanian women.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of childhood abuse in Jordanian women and to examine differences in mental health problems based on type of childhood abuse.

Methods

Data about childhood abuse and mental health problems were assessed in 409 women visiting healthcare centers. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics for prevalence rates and one-way between-groups multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) for relationship between mental health and abuse experiences.

Results

Emotional abuse and physical abuse were the most frequently reported during childhood (47.1% and 46.5%, respectively). Statistically significant differences in mental health between women who experienced emotional abuse and childhood neglect and their counterparts were found (Wilks' Lambda for emotional abuse = 0.914, p < .0001; Wilks' Lambda for childhood neglect = 0.83, p < .0001). Mental health problems did not differ significantly between physically and sexually abused women with their counterparts.

Conclusions

Mental health consequences of childhood abuse last to adulthood. Emotional abuse and neglect can be more harmful and more damaging to women's mental well-being than physical and sexual abuse. Mental health consequences of childhood abuse may alter women's commitments and obligations to others. Therefore, professional health efforts focusing on mental health should be established in healthcare centers.
2255 – The Mental Health Risks Economic Crisis In Spain: Evidence From Primary Care Centres, 2006 And 2010
Authors: Gili M. , Roca M. , Stuckler D. , Basu S. , McKee M.
Published: July 2013

Spain has experienced one of the deepest recessions among European countries affected by the economic crisis. We investigated the effects of the recession on the frequency of mental disorders in Primary Care (PC).

A group of PC physicians selected into the study a random sample of patients attending primary care centres. These patients were administered the PRIME-MD for the assessment of mental disorders, in 2006 and again in 2010, before and during the financial crisis. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship of unemployment, mortgage payment difficulties, and eviction on risks of mental health disorders.

Compared with the pre-crisis period of 2006, the 2010 survey revealed substantial increases in the proportion of patients with mood, anxiety, somatoform, and alcohol-related disorders (p< 0.0001), but not in eating disorders (p = 0.172). Major depression (19.4% increase) and dysthymia (10.8), showed the greatest rise, followed generalized anxiety disorder (8.4) and panic attack disorder (7.3). Both alcohol dependence and alcohol abuse rose significantly, by 4.6% and 2.4% (OR = 11.6 and 4.5, p< 0.001), respectively. After correcting for the risks of unemployment, we observed a significant rise in attendance with depression associated with mortgage repayment difficulties (OR =2.12, p< 0.001) and evictions (OR = 2.95, p< 0.001).

Recession has significantly increased the frequency of mental health disorders, particularly among families experiencing unemployment and mortgage payment difficulties. Expanding mental health services in primary care settings to at-risk groups may help cope with rising mental health disorders in areas affected by recession.
2256 – Architectural Factors In Environmental Design Can Help Senile With Memory Impairments Improve Their Place Orientation And Recognition
Authors: Nazarboland N. , Sadjadi A.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study is to find out architectural designing factors which can help senile with memory impairments to recognize and recall place orientation. In this regard, 42 senile with memory impairments were represented a computerized package of vocal and visual 3dimentional maps were designed using “3D max” and involved some architectural factors proposed to play role in place recognition. By using within group comparisons, Results indicated that subjects’ way and place recognition were significantly improved when environmental design included some architectural factors such as spatial design, variety of colors, materials and lightening. Results may be applicable for designing sanatoriums, buildings and sites for older people especially with memory impairments. Results are discussed completely in the main article.
2260 – Gender Profiles Of Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Highly Educated Community Controls
Authors: Prata J. , Ramos S. , Martins A.Q. , Rocha-Gonçalves F. , Coelho R.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Women remain under-represented in cardiovascular clinical trials even though, in Europe, 55% of female deaths are caused by cardiovascular disease. Women have less extensive and less severe disease but poorer outcome compared to men. Gender related specificities in risk factors and adaptation to illness, or both, might further explain this.

Methods

As part of a larger study examining the impact of depression and type D personality in cardiac patients, a sample of 243 (148 females) highly educated controls (mean age = 41 ± 10 years) were evaluated on demographic, behavioral, psychosocial [BDI-II (Beck Depression Inventory, 2nd edition); HADS (Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Scale); DS-14 (Type D personality)] and clinical risk factors known to be implicated in cardiovascular disease.

Results

Women had significantly less alcohol consumption (p< .001) and exercise (p< .05), but had higher cholesterol and triglycerides (p < .05) than men. Past psychiatric complaints (p< .05), current depression (p< .05), moderate levels of anxiety (p< .05), and negative affectivity (p< .05) were all significantly more common among women. Age-adjusted multivariate analyses confirmed that lack of exercise together with dietary concerns and increased levels of mental distress (depression, anxiety and negative affectivity) tend to cluster in women. Importantly, no gender differences were detected in traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes, or Type D personality prevalence.

Conclusion

In a highly educated sample, women presented with increased behavioral and psychosocial difficulties than men. These vulnerabilities may augment the impact of putative pathophysiological risk factors for cardiac disease.
2261 – Developing Child And Adolescent Mental Health Services In Portugal: Challenges And Obstacles
Authors: Marques C. , Mateus P. , Carvalho Á. , Xavier M.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

In 2007 the Government launched a new Mental Health Plan (MHP), written in the spirit of international principles, including the WHO 2001 Global Mental Health Report and the Helsinki European Declaration. The new MHP includes a special section with guidelines for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) development. This is relevant, given that, according to WHO, 2 million young people in Europe suffer from mental disorders, sometimes receiving no care.

Objectives

Regarding mental health needs of the children and youth, the MHP focus on i. how to develop new CAMHS in public general hospitals, across the country, and ii. how to integrate CAMHS in the general health system (including primary care), in order to promote access and decrease stigma.

Methods

A national task force has been empowered by the Government to assure the implementation of the MHP, with external monitoring from WHO. This task force includes a team of child and adolescent mental health experts, belonging to different administrative catchment areas throughout the country.

Results

Relevant advances have been: appraisal of current resources, development of new CAMHS, planning of residential and day unit facilities for adolescents, mental health promotion and domestic violence prevention programmes, advocacy and stigma.

Conclusions

Despite several positive outcomes, CAMHS evaluation detected significant problems (access, equity and quality of care). Special attention should be given to CAMHS, namely through the increase of new services and new teams. Nevertheless, given the present crisis context, broad policies can negatively influence and restraint the mental health plan implementation.
2266 – N4U: a Web-based Gateway To Neuroimaging Research
Authors: Spulber G. , Redolfi A. , Wahlund L.-O. , Cover K. , Finocchiaro C. , McClatchey R. , Maset D. , Mangin J.-F. , Giannakopoulos P. , Toga A. , Evans A. , Frisoni G.
Published: July 2013

The unprecedented growth, availability and accessibility of sophisticated image analysis algorithms and powerful computational resources led to the idea of developing web-based computational infrastructures that could meet users’ new requirements. On the other hand the gap between the pace of data generation and the capability to extract clinically or scientifically relevant information is rapidly widening.

Integration of the power of sophisticated mathematical models, efficient computational algorithms and advanced hardware infrastructure provides the necessary sensitivity to detect, extract and analyze subtle, dynamic and distributed patterns distinguishing one brain from another, and a diseased brain from a normal brain.

neuGRID is the leading e-Infrastructure where neuroscientists can find core services and resources for brain image analysis. The neuGRID platform makes use of grid services and computing, and was developed with the final aim of overcoming the hurdles that the average scientist meets when trying to set up advanced experiments in computational neuroimaging, thereby empowering a larger base of scientists. Although originally built for neuroscientists working in the field of AD, the infrastructure is designed to be expandable to services from other medical fields (e.g. multiple sclerosis, psychiatric conditions).

“neuGRID for Users” will provide an e-Science environment by further developing and deploying the neuGRID infrastructure to deliver a Virtual Laboratory offering neuroscientists access to a wide range of datasets and algorithm pipelines, access to computational resources, services, and support. Information from this abstract is intended to make aware researchers working with neuroimaging of all possibilities when it comes to resources.
2269 – Evidence For a Negative Association Between Schizophrenia And a Polymorphism In The Insulin Receptor Substrate-3 (irs-3) Gene
Authors: Melkersson K. , Persson B.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Since there are clear indications that schizophrenia is a systemic disorder, we sought for a common molecular basis for schizophrenia abnormalities in brain and body. Our hypothesis was that an impaired insulin/ insulin-like growth factor signalling in cells might underlie changes in both brain and body in schizophrenia. In this regard, the intracellular insulin receptor substrates 1-4 proteins might be of interest to study genetically.

Objective/aim

In this study, we chose to investigate the insulin receptor substrate-3 (IRS-3) gene as a candidate gene in schizophrenia.

Methods

The IRS-3 gene of 93 patients with the diagnosis of schizophrenia according to DSM-IV criteria and 57 healthy control subjects was screened for DNA sequence variations, followed by case-control analyses of total 10 detected polymorphisms.

Results

The A/G genotype of the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at position 100166597 in the IRS-3 gene occurred in 5.3% of the control subjects compared with in 0% of the patients (p=0.05).

Conclusion

Our finding suggests that individuals carrying the A allele of this A/G SNP in the IRS-3 gene have a protection against schizophrenia development.
2270 – Mood And Quality Of Life In Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Frikha F. , Masmoudi J. , Messedi N. , Feki I. , Snoussi M. , Jaoua A. , Bahloul Z.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic connective tissue reaching the skin and blood vessels, responsible for disability and impaired quality of life.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life and mood in a group of patients with SSc.

Methods

Our study was descriptive, conducted between October 2011 and June 2012; Among the 15 women hospitalized with SSc, 10 agreed to participate in the study. Quality of life was assessed by the WHOQOL BREF scale (World Health Quality of Life-Brief Version). Emotional disorders have been evaluated by the “Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale” (HAD).

Results

The average age was 52.4 ± 8.2 years (38-65 years). Our patients were estimated to have a quality of life overall average with a total score scale WHOQOL BREF close to 60 of 120. The values of the four domains were: physical health 46± 8.8 [31-56], psychological health 50.7± 11.2 [31-69], social relations 57.5 ±15.5 [25-75], environment 52 ± 11 [31-63]. Eight women had a score HAD A >10 defining an anxious states certain. Seven patients had a score HAD D > 10 defining a depression certain. 7 out of 10 women said they needed psychological help and were supported jointly in psychiatry.

Conclusion

Our results underline a high frequency of emotional disorders in patients with SSc. Similarly, the quality of life has been altered. These results suggest a widespread screening for anxiety and depression.
2273 – Attachment Style And Posttraumatic Stress Disorder After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Parmigiani G. , Tarsitani L. , De Santis V. , Mistretta M. , Zampetti G. , Roselli V. , Vitale D. , Tritapepe L. , Picardi A. , Biondi M.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass represents a severe source of stress and has been reported to be associated to the development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This disorder leads to a significant disability that might greatly decrease the benefits of surgery. Research rarely focused on the role of attachment styles in the development of PTSD, and no studies addressed this issue in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Objectives

To assess the influence of attachment styles on the development of PTSD.

Aims

The identification of specific personological traits predictive of the development of PTSD.

Methods

Participants were recruited among patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and evaluated through

a)

Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR)

b)

Post-traumatic 10 Stress Symptom Inventory - Modified (PTSS-10)

c)

Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).

Six months after surgery, participants were mailed the PTSS-10 and the PSS. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed with PTSD as dependent variable, and attachment-related avoidance and anxiety, sex, age and perceived stress as independent variables.

Results

One hundred twenty-one patients (94% of candidates for elective cardiac surgery who met study inclusion criteria) underwent surgery; 61(59%) were assessed after 6 months. Fourteen subjects (19.7%) scored ≥35 on the PTSS-10 at followup and were considered as having a probable diagnosis of PTSD. Attachment related avoidance at baseline predicted the development of PTSD at follow-up (p< 0.017), after controlling for age, sex and perceived stress.

Conclusions

Subjects endorsing the avoidant attachment style are more likely to develop PTSD after cardiac surgery.
2281 – Psychosocial And Overall Effectiveness Of Aripiprazole Once-monthly Vs. Placebo Once-monthly For Maintenance Treatment In Schizophrenia
Authors: Baker R. , Carson W.H. , Perry P. , Sanchez R. , Jin N. , McQuade R.D. , Kane J. , Fleischhacker W.W.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Evaluate the effectiveness of investigational aripiprazole once-monthly (ARI-OM) for maintenance treatment in schizophrenia.

Methods

Detailed methodology has been published previously1. Briefly, the study consisted of 4 phases: oral conversion to aripiprazole (Phase 1); oral aripiprazole stabilization (Phase 2); ARI-OM stabilization (Phase 3), with co-administration of oral aripiprazole for the first 2 weeks; and an ARI-OM maintenance phase (Phase 4). Effectiveness assessments included Investigator's Assessment Questionnaire (IAQ) scores, a scale that evaluates effectiveness of current treatment vs. pre-trial medication, where a negative change in score signals improvement, and Personal and Social Performance (PSP) scale scores, where negative change in score signals worsening.

Results

710 patients entered Phase 2, 576 Phase 3 and 403 Phase 4 (ARI-OM=269, placebo once-monthly [placebo- OM]=134). Mean IAQ Total scores remained stable in Phase 2 (31.3) and Phase 3 (30.6). During Phase 4, the mean change in IAQ Total score was +1.3 for ARI-OM vs. +3.8 for placebo-OM (p< 0.0001). Mean changes in PSP Total scale scores showed improvement during Phase 2 (3.0) and Phase 3 (2.6). Mean change in PSP scores during Phase 4 showed greater functional stability with ARI-OM (−1.7) compared with placebo-OM (−6.2) (p=0.0002 vs. placebo-OM).

Conclusions

Improvements in effectiveness, as assessed by the IAQ and PSP Total scale scores, in the Phases 2 & 3 were maintained in Phase 4 for ARI-OM compared with placebo-OM. Treatment with ARI-OM improved symptoms, overall response to treatment and functioning.
2282 – Prevalence Of Children's Mental Health Disorders In Survey Data Compared To Population Data: a Comparison Of Two Prospective Cohorts
Authors: Wong J. , O’Donnell M. , Glauert R. , Bayliss D. , Fletcher J.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Prevalence estimates of childhood and adolescent mental health disorders appear to vary between 20 to 30% worldwide. It is therefore unsurprising that studies have yielded inconsistent findings in regards to the trends of prevalence of mental health disorders. Some reasons for the discrepancy in findings include use of survey data and its associated attrition and selection bias.

Objectives and aims

First, to determine and compare the prevalence of mental health disorders derived from a survey and a population cohort. Second, to evaluate trends of mental health prevalence over time.

Methods

As population data (i.e., linked health records) may be used to overcome the issues presented by survey data, we compared the prevalence estimated from a prospective survey cohort (the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine study) to another estimate from a prospective population cohort (linked population data; data from the Hospital Morbidity Records and Mental Health Registration).

Results

As expected, the Raine cohort yielded a larger estimate of prevalence when compared to the linked population data. However each cohort also revealed opposite trends of prevalence, where the Raine cohort showed the prevalence of mental health disorders to decrease as children age.

Conclusions

We therefore recommend that estimates of prevalence be interpreted with the type of cohort in mind, as estimates from survey cohorts will provide different information to that from population cohorts.
2287 – Size Matters: Investigating The Link Between Affective And Perceptual Body Representations Using Multisensory Illusions
Authors: Preston C. , Ehrsson H.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Negative feelings towards the body and body size misperception have long been associated with disordered eating behaviour. Over recent years the perceptual flexibility of the human body representation has been consistently demonstrated using multisensory perceptual illusions. Whether such perceptual changes can impact the emotional experience of our body, however, has yet to be explored.

Objectives

The current study exploits well-established perceptual body illusions to induce illusory ownership over slimmer and wider body shapes whilst measuring changes in body satisfaction.

Aims

To identify a direct causal link between perceptual and affective body representations.

Methods

Participants were presented with video images of both a slimmer and wider mannequin body viewed through head mounted displays from a first person perspective. Illusory ownership was induced by synchronously stroking the seen mannequin body with the unseen real body. Pre and post illusion affective and perceptual measures captured changes in perceive body size and body satisfaction as a result of the illusion.

Results

Illusory ownership of a slimmer body significantly increased feelings of body satisfaction as well as significantly decreasing perceived actual body width. Change in body satisfaction following illusory ownership of a wider body, however, was modulated by degree of sub clinical eating disorder pathology and did not induce a systematic change in perceived body width.

Conclusions

These findings suggest a link between perceived body size and body satisfaction, which may be modulated by eating disorder pathology. The results could have implications for future treatments of eating disorders.
2288 – A 12-week, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study Evaluating The Efficacy And Safety Of Aripiprazole In Combination With Lithium/valproate Inpartially-responsive Bipolar Mania
Authors: Loze J.-Y. , Landsberg W. , Rollin L. , Eudicone J.M. , Carson W.H. , McQuade R.D.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Evaluate the efficacy of aripiprazole combination with lithium/valproate vs. placebo combination in bipolar mania using a titration regimen with a low starting dose (5 mg/day).

Methods

Eligible adult patients with bipolar mania receiving lithium/valproate and a Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) Total score ≥16 who might benefit from combination treatment with aripiprazole, were randomized to aripiprazole (n=181) or placebo (n=189) with lithium/valproate. Primary endpoint was mean change from baseline to Week 12 in YMRS. Secondary endpoints were Clinical Global Impressions-Bipolar Version (CGI-BP) severity of illness score, response rate (≥50% improvement in YMRS Total score), and remission rate (YMRS ≤12). Safety and tolerability were also assessed. Enrolment yielded a 77% power to detect a 2.6-point change in YMRS Total score at endpoint.

Results

At endpoint, the mean change in YMRS Total Score (last-observation-carried-forward [LOCF]) for aripiprazole vs. placebo was not significant (treatment difference [-2.04] in favour of aripiprazole (95% CI: -4.14, 0.07; p=0.058). Mean change from baseline to endpoint in CGI-BP showed a treatment difference (-0.30) in favour of aripiprazole vs. placebo (95% CI: - 0.59, -0.01; p=0.044). Response rates were 68.8% vs. 61.3% (p=0.128) and remission rates were 69.9% vs. 64.0% (p=0.211) for aripiprazole and placebo, respectively. No unexpected adverse events (AEs) occurred. Treatment-emergent AEs (≥5% and twice the rate of placebo) were akathisia, depression, and nausea.

Conclusions

The target sample size of 388 patients was not achieved in this study and the primary outcome did not reach statistical significance. Now new or unexpected AEs occurred.
2296 – Insight And Neurocognition In Psychosis: a Comprehensive Meta-analysis
Authors: Nair A. , David A. , Aleman A.
Published: July 2013

Aims

To complete an up-to-date meta-analysis of studies investigating the correlation between insight and various measures of neurocognition in psychosis.

Methods

We completed a comprehensive literature search using Pubmed and ‘Web of Science’. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria we isolated 34 papers published on this topic since 2004. This list was then added to those published prior to 2004 that had been found in an earlier meta-analysis performed by our group to give a complete collection of 69 papers. Metaanalysis of data was performed in the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software using random effects models.

Results

Overall our sample included 5127 patients with psychosis across 69 studies. We performed analyses for overall cognition, IQ, memory, executive function and specifically the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). We found a small but highly significant correlation between insight and each measure of neurocognition in all patients with psychosis (mean weighted r = 0.13–0.16 across domains, p < 0.001). When restricted to those patients with diagnosis of schizophrenia (n = 1708) the strength of correlation in each domain increased slightly (mean weighted r = 0.14–0.18, p < 0.01). We found no evidence of significant publication bias.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive meta-analysis we found a small but robust correlation between insight and a variety of neurocognitive domains in patients with psychosis. We believe that this data supports the role of neurocognitive processes in some aspects of insight but believe that a more precise experimental approach is required to elucidate the exact mechanisms of this relationship.
2302 – Physicians’ Professional And Personal Experience, Basic Knowledge Of And Attitudes To Suicidal Behavior
Authors: Lasy Y. , Minkevich K. , Vilkockaya N.V. , Zacepin A.O. , Vilkocky E.A. , Naumovskaya N.A. , Pilipenko L.K.
Published: July 2013

Physicians are well known to confront with suicidal behavior (SB) of their patients frequently in their practice. Suicide risk is higher among doctors in comparison with other professional groups.

Aims

To evaluate basic knowledge of physicians about suicide; frequency of suicide events (SE) within their professional practice and personal history; influence of specialty on physicians’ basic knowledge of SB, attitudes to it and frequency of SE.

Method

The questionnaire “Specialist's attitudes to suicide” (developed by authors) has been proposed anonymously to the group of physicians.

Results

425 copies of questionnaire have been filled (male, N=179, 42.1%). More than 70% of respondents considered suicide to be the consequence of mental disorder. Less than 30% agreed that not only psychiatrists are to be responsible for suicide prevention. 58% has reported the experience of patient's suicide and 67% - of parasuicide in their practice. Over 80% mentioned an emotional influence of suicidal act. Over 15% survive the suicide of their relative or intimate. About 37% of doctors had suicidal thoughts and 8% have reported an act of deliberate self-harm ever in their life. The level of knowledge regarding managing of depressed patients has turned to be unsatisfactory. Psychiatrists were more sensitive in perception of SB of their patients and have reported their own suicidal ideation more frequently than other specialists.

Conclusion

The educational programs in the field of depression detection and suicide risk evaluation are needed for physicians. Besides, physicians need psychotherapeutic and psychiatric assistance much more widely than is considered to be.
2306 – Coping Strategies For Patients With Alcohol Dependence Who Are In Remission Or Not: a Controlled Study
Authors: Taner E. , Sahiner S. , Arıkan Z.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

High relapse rate and extreme difficulty to maintain abstinence are main characteristics of alcohol dependence. In the course of the this psychiatric disorder some patients with alcohol dependence remit while others not.

Objective

Coping styles may differ the patients with non remited alcohol dependence from remitted alcoholics and healthy controls.

Aims

We aimed to find out the coping mechanisms which maked the difference between remitted and non remitted alcoholics compared to age and sex matched healthy controls

Methods

Ninety patients with alcohol dependency were enrolled in the study. Fifty-three patients with alcohol dependence were abstinent for more than one year which formed the remission group, and thirty-seven of them were either in in-patient treatment or either not fully remmited, that is having remission less than one year. Coping styles of these two subgroups of patients with alcohol dependence were compared with forty non-psychiatric healthy, age and sex matched subjects.

Results

Patients with alcohol dependence had higher non adaptive coping strategies compared to controls. Non-remitted patients with alcohol dependence used more non-adaptive coping strategies compared to both remited patients with alcohol dependence and healthy controls.

Conclusions

These results in part support higher probability of non-adaptive coping strategies in patients with alcohol dependence particularly in those with not remitted alcohol dependence compared to both abstinent alcoholics and healthy controls.