bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rexinoid Bexarotene Modulates Triglyceride but not Cholesterol Metabolism via Gene-Specific Permissivity of the RXR/LXR Heterodimer in the Liver
Authors: Lalloyer Fanny , Pedersen Thomas Åskov , Gross Barbara , Lestavel Sophie , Yous Saïd , Vallez Emmanuelle , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Mandrup Susanne , Fiévet Catherine , Staels Bart , Tailleux Anne
Published: July 2009

Objective—

Bexarotene (Targretin) is a clinically used antitumoral agent which exerts its action through binding to and activation of the retinoid-X-receptor (RXR). The most frequent side-effect of bexarotene administration is an increase in plasma triglycerides, an independent risk factor of cardiovascular disease. The molecular mechanism behind this hypertriglyceridemia remains poorly understood.

Methods and Results—

Using wild-type and LXRα/β-deficient mice, we show here that bexarotene induces hypertriglyceridemia and activates hepatic LXR-target genes of lipogenesis in an LXR-dependent manner, hence exerting a permissive effect on RXR/LXR heterodimers. Interestingly, RNA analysis and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation assays performed in the liver reveal that the in vivo permissive effect of bexarotene on the RXR/LXR heterodimer is restricted to lipogenic genes without modulation of genes controlling cholesterol homeostasis.

Conclusion—

These findings demonstrate that the hypertriglyceridemic action of bexarotene occurs via the RXR/LXR heterodimer and show that RXR heterodimers can act with a selective permissivity on target genes of specific metabolic pathways in the liver.
Functional Analysis of the Chromosome 9p21.3 Coronary Artery Disease Risk Locus
Authors: Jarinova Olga , Stewart Alexandre F.R. , Roberts Robert , Wells George , Lau Paulina , Naing Thet , Buerki Christine , McLean Bradley W. , Cook Richard C. , Parker Joel S. , McPherson Ruth
Published: July 2009

Objectives—

We have investigated the functional significance of conserved sequences within the 9p21.3 risk locus for coronary artery disease (CAD) and determined the relationship of 9p21.3 to expression of
ANRIL
and to whole genome gene expression.

Methods and Results—

We demonstrate that a conserved sequence within the 9p21.3 locus has enhancer activity and that the risk variant significantly increases reporter gene expression in primary aortic smooth muscle cells. Whole blood RNA expression of the short variants of
ANRIL
was increased by 2.2-fold whereas expression of the long
ANRIL
variant was decreased by 1.2-fold in healthy subjects homozygous for the risk allele. Expression levels of the long and short
ANRIL
variants were positively correlated with that of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor,
CDKN2B
(
p15
) and
TDGF1
(
Cripto
), respectively. Relevant to atherosclerosis, genome-wide expression profiling demonstrated upregulation of gene sets modulating cellular proliferation in carriers of the risk allele.

Conclusion—

These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the 9p21.3 risk allele contains a functional enhancer, the activity of which is altered in carriers of the risk allele. 9p21.3 may promote atherosclerosis by regulating expression of
ANRIL
, which in turn is associated with altered expression of genes controlling cellular proliferation pathways.
c-Jun DNAzymes Inhibit Myocardial Inflammation, ROS Generation, Infarct Size, and Improve Cardiac Function After Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Luo Xiao , Cai Hong , Ni Jun , Bhindi Ravinay , Lowe Harry C. , Chesterman Colin N. , Khachigian Levon M.
Published: July 2009

Objectives—

Coronary reperfusion has been the mainstay therapy for reduced infarct size after a heart attack. However, this intervention also results in myocardial injury by initiating a marked inflammatory reaction, and new treatments are keenly sought.

Methods and Results—

The basic-region leucine zipper protein, c-Jun is poorly expressed in the normal myocardium and is induced within 24 hours after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Synthetic catalytic DNA molecules (DNAzymes) targeting c-Jun (Dz13) reduce infarct size in the area-at-risk (AAR) regardless of whether it is delivered intramyocardially at the initiation of ischemia or at the time of reperfusion. Dz13 attenuates neutrophil infiltration, c-Jun and ICAM-1 expression in vascular endothelium, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and the generation of reactive oxygen species in the reperfused myocardium. It inhibits infiltration into the AAR of complement 3 (C3), C3a receptor (C3aR), membrane attack complex-1 (Mac-1), or matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) positive inflammatory cells. Dz13 also improves cardiac function without influencing myocardial vascularity or fibrosis.

Conclusion—

These findings demonstrate the regulatory role of c-Jun in the pathogenesis of myocardial inflammation and infarction following ischemia-reperfusion injury, and inhibition of this process using catalytic DNA.
Syndecan-1
Authors: Fukai Nozomi , Kenagy Richard D. , Chen Lihua , Gao Lu , Daum Guenter , Clowes Alexander W.
Published: July 2009

Objective—

Arterial injury induces smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation, migration, and intimal accumulation of cells and extracellular matrix. These processes are regulated by the administration of the glycosaminoglycans heparin and heparan sulfate, but little is known about the role of endogenous heparan sulfate proteoglycans in the vessel wall. We investigated the response to carotid injury of syndecan-1–null mice to assess the function of one of a conserved family of transmembrane heparan and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans.

Methods and Results—

Syndecan-1–null mice developed a large neointimal lesion after injury, whereas wild-type mice made little or none. This was accompanied by a significant increase in both medial and intimal SMC replication. Cultured syndecan-1–null SMCs showed a significant increase in proliferation in response to PDGF-BB, thrombin, FGF2, EGF, and serum. In response to thrombin, PDGF-BB, and serum syndecan-1–null SMCs expressed more PDGF-B chain message than did wild-type SMCs. Downregulation of PDGF-BB or PDGFRβ inhibited thrombin-, PDGF-BB–, and serum-induced DNA synthesis in syndecan-1–null SMCs.

Conclusions—

These results suggest the possibility that syndecan-1 may limit intimal thickening in injured arteries by suppressing SMC activation through inhibition of SMC PDGF-B chain expression and PDGFRβ activation.
Thiol Oxidative Stress Induced by Metabolic Disorders Amplifies Macrophage Chemotactic Responses and Accelerates Atherogenesis and Kidney Injury in LDL Receptor-Deficient Mice
Authors: Qiao Mu , Zhao Qingwei , Lee Chi Fung , Tannock Lisa R. , Smart Eric J. , LeBaron Richard G. , Phelix Clyde F. , Rangel Yolanda , Asmis Reto
Published: July 2009

Background—

Strengthening the macrophage glutathione redox buffer reduces macrophage content and decreases the severity of atherosclerotic lesions in LDL receptor-deficient (LDLR
−/−
) mice, but the underlying mechanisms were not clear. This study examined the effect of metabolic stress on the thiol redox state, chemotactic activity in vivo, and the recruitment of macrophages into atherosclerotic lesions and kidneys of LDL-R
−/−
mice in response to mild, moderate, and severe metabolic stress.

Methods and Results—

Reduced glutathione (GSH) and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) levels in peritoneal macrophages isolated from mildly, moderately, and severe metabolically-stressed LDL-R
−/−
mice were measured by HPLC, and the glutathione reduction potential (E
h
) was calculated. Macrophage E
h
correlated with the macrophage content in both atherosclerotic (r
2
=0.346,
P
=0.004) and renal lesions (r
2
=0.480,
P
=0.001) in these mice as well as the extent of both atherosclerosis (r
2
=0.414,
P
=0.001) and kidney injury (r
2
=0.480,
P
=0.001). Compared to LDL-R
−/−
mice exposed to mild metabolic stress, macrophage recruitment into MCP-1-loaded Matrigel plugs injected into LDL-R
−/−
mice increased 2.6-fold in moderately metabolically-stressed mice and 9.8-fold in severely metabolically-stressed mice. The macrophage E
h
was a strong predictor of macrophage chemotaxis (r
2
=0.554,
P
<0.001).

Conclusion—

Thiol oxidative stress enhances macrophage recruitment into vascular and renal lesions by increasing the responsiveness of macrophages to chemoattractants. This novel mechanism contributes at least in part to accelerated atherosclerosis and kidney injury associated with dyslipidemia and diabetes in mice.
Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Agonists Inhibit Expression and Procoagulant Activity of Tissue Factor
Authors: Sovershaev Mikhail A. , Egorina Elena M. , Hansen John-Bjarne , Østerud Bjarne , Pacher Pál , Stasch Johannes-Peter , Evgenov Oleg V.
Published: July 2009

Objective—

Tissue factor (TF), a major initiator of blood coagulation, contributes to inflammation, atherosclerosis, angiogenesis, and vascular remodeling. Pharmacological agonists of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) attenuate systemic and pulmonary hypertension, vascular remodeling, and platelet aggregation. However, the influence of these novel pharmacophores on TF is unknown.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated effects of BAY 41-2272 and BAY 58-2667 on expression and activity of TF in human monocytes and umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Both compounds reduced expression of active TF protein in monocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide, as demonstrated by immunoblotting and a TF procoagulant activity assay. In-cell Western assay revealed that this effect was associated with a marked reduction of total and surface TF presentation. Furthermore, BAY 41-2272 and BAY 58-2667 decreased TF protein expression and the TF-dependent procoagulant activity in HUVECs stimulated with TNF-α. The sGC agonists also suppressed transcriptional activity of NF-κB. A siRNA-mediated knockdown of the α1-subunit of sGC in monocytes and HUVECs confirmed that the inhibitory effect of BAY 41-2272 and BAY 58-2667 on TF expression is mediated through the sGC-dependent mechanisms.

Conclusions—

Inhibition of TF expression and activity by sGC agonists might provide therapeutic benefits in cardiovascular diseases associated with enhanced procoagulant and inflammatory response.
A Culturally Relevant Conceptualization of Depression: an Empirical Examination of the Factorial Structure of the Vietnamese Depression Scale
Authors: Dinh Tam Q. , Yamada Ann Marie , Yee Barbara W.K.
Published: July 2009

Background: Despite the high risk of depression among Vietnamese refugees, there has been insufficient attention to the psychometric properties of the most utilized scale, the Vietnamese Depression Scale (VDS: Kinzie etal., 1982).

Aim: The primary aim of the study is to empirically derive the factorial structure of the VDS to support its use as a culturally responsive depression screening tool in community samples of Vietnamese adults.

Method: The factorial structure, reliability, and associations of the VDS factors with recognized socio-demographic correlates were examined using data collected from interviews with a non-probability community sample of 180 Vietnamese refugee adults in the Houston area.

Results: The empirically derived factorial structure of the VDS approximated the theorized conceptualization of depression introduced by the scale’s originators. Three factors (depressed affect, somatic symptoms, and cultural-specific symptoms) accounted for 65% of the variance. As hypothesized, the VDS factors correlated with age and acculturation variables.

Conclusion: Overall results suggest that the conceptualization of depression among this sample of Vietnamese refugees has both universal and culturally specific features. Implications for providing culturally responsive mental health services are offered.
Exploring the Hypothesis of Ethnic Practice as Social Capital: Violence Among Asian/Pacific Islander Youth in Hawaii
Authors: Spencer James H. , Irwin Katherine , Umemoto Karen N. , Garcia-Santiago Orlando , Nishimura Stephanie T. , Hishinuma Earl S. , Choi-Misailidis Soojean
Published: July 2009

Background: Studies of youth violence have usually examined social capital using qualitative methods, but remain limited by small sample sizes. In addition, few studies examine violence among Asian/Pacific Islander (API) youth, even though they are one of the fastest-growing youth populations in the USA.

Aims: To contribute to a better understanding of culture and ethnicity in youth violence among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders by quantifying ethnic forms of social capital.

Methods: We use an n = 326 sample of three API groups from Oahu, Hawaii. Defining social capital as ethnic practice, we test Filipino, Hawaiian and Samoan forms of youth social capital on intimate and non-intimate violence.

Results: Bivariate findings associate lower violence with language ability among Filipinos, coming-of-age practices among Hawaiians, and community leader engagement among Samoans. Multivariate tests showed language to be the strongest correlation. Bivariate tests also suggested potentially risky forms of social capital.

Conclusions: Results lead us to hypothesize that social capital that deliberately places individuals within their respective ethnic communities are risk-reducing, as are those that promote formal ethnic community structures. Those that formalize ethnic practice and social capital into commercial activities may be associated with higher risk of violence. Given the relatively small sample size and the exploratory approach for the present investigation, further research is needed to determine whether the findings can be replicated and to extend the findings of the present preliminary study.
Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women of Hyderabad, Pakistan
Authors: Karmaliani Rozina , Asad Nargis , Bann Carla M. , Moss Nancy , Mcclure Elizabeth M. , Pasha Omrana , Wright Linda L. , Goldenberg Robert L.
Published: July 2009

Background: Few studies have examined the relationship between antenatal depression, anxiety and domestic violence in pregnant women in developing countries, despite the World Health Organization’s estimates that depressive disorders will be the second leading cause of the global disease burden by 2020. There is a paucity of research on mood disorders, their predictors and sequelae among pregnant women in Pakistan.

Aims: To determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression and evaluate associated factors, including domestic violence, among pregnant women in an urban community in Pakistan.

Methods: All pregnant women living in identified areas of Hyderabad, Pakistan were screened by government health workers for an observational study on maternal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes. Of these, 1,368 (76%) of eligible women were administered the validated Aga Khan University Anxiety Depression Scale at 20—26 weeks of gestation.

Results: Eighteen per cent of the women were anxious and/or depressed. Psychological distress was associated with husband unemployment ( p = 0.032), lower household wealth ( p = 0.027), having 10 or more years of formal education ( p = 0.002), a first ( p = 0.002) and an unwanted pregnancy ( p < 0.001). The strongest factors associated with depression/anxiety were physical/sexual and verbal abuse; 42% of women who were physically and/or sexually abused and 23% of those with verbal abuse had depression/anxiety compared to 8% of those who were not abused.

Conclusions: Anxiety and depression commonly occur during pregnancy in Pakistani women; rates are highest in women experiencing sexual/physical as well as verbal abuse, but they are also increased among women with unemployed spouses and those with lower household wealth. These results suggest that developing a screening and treatment programme for domestic violence and depression/anxiety during pregnancy may improve the mental health status of pregnant Pakistani women.
Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version of the Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20 (SRQ-20) in Community Settings
Authors: Chen Shulin , Zhao Guoqiu , Li Lingjiang , Wang Yiqiang , Chiu Helen , Caine Eric
Published: July 2009

Background: Community mental health services in China are in need of a brief, valid instrument to identify mental disorders. Many studies support the Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20 (SRQ-20) as a cost-effective instrument with which to measure community mental health, but there have been no previous studies conducted with the Chinese version of SRQ-20. In this paper, the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of SRQ-20 in community settings were investigated.

Method: SRQ-20 was used to evaluate 959 participants from 10 communities of Hangzhou City and 60 participants from two community primary care centres for the presence of mental disorders. Discriminative, concurrent, and construct validity as well as internal consistency and screening properties of SRQ-20 were evaluated.

Results: Cronbach’s α for SRQ-20 was 0.90 for primary care and 0.91 for the community. Item-total correlation coefficients ranged from 0.40 to 0.73 in primary care, and from 0.51 to 0.69 in the community. The test-retest correlation coefficient was 0.93 in primary care and 0.94 in the community. Varimax-rotated principal component analysis of the SRQ-20 items yielded three factors: depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms and somatic symptoms. The area under the ROC curve was 0.83 ( SE =0.04, 95% CI 0.75—0.90) for the community and primary care samples. The optimal cut-off point for SRQ-20 was 6/7 yielding sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 62%.

Conclusion: SRQ-20 appears to be a reliable and valid measure of mental disorders in the community in China.
Lay Theories of Bipolar Disorder: the Causes, Manifestations and Cures for Perceived Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Anthony Elizabeth
Published: July 2009

This study aimed to investigate lay theories of the cause and treatment of bipolar disorder, and the recognition of its symptoms. This questionnaire-based study included vignette descriptions of mental disorders and 70 items relating to bipolar disorder. It was completed by 173 participants. Bipolar disorder was recognized less than depression but at the same rate as schizophrenia. Contrary to previous research, analysis showed that lay beliefs of the causes of bipolar disorder generally concur with scientific academic theories. Drug treatment was favoured as a cure rather than psychotherapy. Theories of cause and treatment were logically correlated. Overall, the results suggest that lay people have reasonably informed beliefs about the causes and treatments of bipolar disorder, however recognition of the symptoms is poor.
Gambling Behaviours and Motivations: a Cross-Cultural Study of Chinese and Caucasians in Australia
Authors: Oei Tian P.S. , Raylu Namrata
Published: July 2009

Background: Research on gambling behaviours among the Chinese, especially compared to Caucasians, is lacking.

Aims and Methods: Gambling behaviours and motivations between community-based Chinese ( n = 199) and Caucasians ( n = 306) living in Australia were compared.

Results: There were significant differences between Caucasians and Australian Chinese in relation to gambling behaviours and types of motivations that could predict problem gambling between the two groups.

Conclusions: The findings provide relevant information in understanding gambling behaviours and motivations among the Chinese, as well as a step towards the development of tailored preventive and treatment interventions for problem gambling in this population.
Traumatic Events and Mental Health in the Community: a New Zealand Study
Authors: Kazantzis Nikolaos , Flett Ross A. , Long Nigel R. , MacDonald Carol , Millar Michelle , Clark Bronwyn
Published: July 2009

Background: Adverse mental health effects in response to a variety of distressing events in specific populations are well documented. However, comparatively little research has been conducted within large community samples outside North America.

Aims: To assess the prevalence and psychological impact of specific traumatic events in a New Zealand community sample.

Methods: Prevalence and psychological impact of 12 traumatic events was examined in a community sample of 1,500 New Zealand adults using a three-stage cluster sampling method. Traumatic events, psychological distress, psychological well-being, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were assessed using modifi ed versions of the Traumatic Stress Schedule, Mental Health Inventory, and Civilian Mississippi Scale. The effects of age, gender and ethnicity were controlled for while assessing impact of traumatic events.

Results: Sixty-one per cent of the sample experienced trauma events in their lifetime, with 9% experiencing events in the past year. Accident-related events were most common in the present sample. Violent crime produced the greatest impact. Tests of interactions involving age, gender, and ethnicity were not significant.

Conclusions: New Zealand community-residing individuals experience post-traumatic stress symptoms, reduced psychological well-being, and increased psychological distress following the experience of violent crime and accidents specifically. Study limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Depression in Obese Persons Before Starting Complex Group Weight-Reduction Programme
Authors: Olszanecka-Glinianowicz Magdalena , Zahorskamarkiewicz Barbara , Kocełak Piotr , Semik-Grabarczyk Elżbieta , Dabrowski Piotr , Gruszka Wojciech , Wikarek Tomasz
Published: July 2009

Background: The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of depression in subjects before starting a weight-reduction programme.

Methods: The study group involved 173 obese subjects aged 47.0 ± 16.5 years, body mass index (BMI) 36.1 ± 6.3, weight 96.2 ± 18.3 kg. The body weight and height were measured and BMI was calculated. Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) was used for the evaluation of depressive symptoms.

Results: Severe depression was diagnosed in 84 subjects (mean BMI 37.5 ± 6.3, mean weight 98.1 ± 17.6 kg, age 48.7 ± 16.0, 22.2 ± 1.6 points), mild depression was diagnosed in 65 subjects (mean BMI 34.7 ± 4.8, mean weight 95.3 ± 18.1 kg, age 45.9 ± 16.6; 10.8 ± 2.0 points), and 24 subjects (mean BMI 35.0 ± 8.7, mean weight 92.2 ± 21.1 kg, age 44.0 ± 17.5, 6.5 ± 0.5 points) did not have depression. We observed dif-ferences in BMI between subjects without depression and severe depression ( p < 0.05) and between mild and severe depression. We did not observe differences of age and body mass between these subgroups. Correlations between weight, BMI and BDI score were found in all subjects.

Conclusion: Depression often accompanies obesity. The depression levels increased in morbidly obese persons in comparison to moderately obese patients.
Integration of Nidotherapy Into the Management of Mental Illness and Antisocial Personality: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Spencer Sarah-Jane , Rutter Deborah , Tyrer Peter
Published: July 2009

Background: Nidotherapy is a new treatment aimed at the systematic alteration of the environment in order to make a better fit for a person with chronic mental health difficulties. Preliminary work has suggested that it might have particular value in those with antisocial personality disorder.

Aims: To examine the views of patients with mental illness combined with antisocial personality features about the acceptability and value of nidotherapy when given over a six-month period as an adjunct to conventional care.

Method: A two-phase study was used. First, a set of key informant interviews was carried out to determine how nidotherapy was perceived in order to identify potentially important themes. Specific topic guides derived from these themes were drawn up for use in the second stage of the study, involving semi-structured interviews with a sample of patients, members of their care teams and their nidotherapists. Nine patients were purposively selected to ensure that a range of demographic and clinical factors was covered.

Results: Analysis of the results showed that the common threads of the perception of nidotherapy were that it was both feasible and acceptable to those with antisocial personality disturbance and that the nidotherapists were felt to be valuable allies in what was otherwise seen as a hostile world. It was also seen to improve adherence to other therapies. It was much less valuable when the staff on the clinical teams were not able to embrace the collaborative approach necessary with this therapy.

Conclusion: Nidotherapy is an acceptable form of management and was perceived in this study to have largely positive results for both patients and clinical teams as it offered intervention beyond that provided by conventional teams. It was felt to require more than six months of treatment and was less successful when there was inadequate communication between the nidotherapist and clinical teams and when the philosophy of care was not congruent.
The Role of the Social Network in Psychosomatic Day Care and Inpatient Care
Authors: Lischka Anna-Marie , Lind Antje , Linden Michael
Published: July 2009

Background: There are many studies on the relationship between social ties and mental health but there is so far no research on the role of the social network in relation to inpatient or day-care treatment. This is of interest as in inpatient treatment patients are taken out of their social network completely, while in day care they are left in their natural environment.

Aims: This study investigates whether there are interactions between the mode of care (inpatient versus day-care treatment) and characteristics of the social network.

Methods: Fifty seven matched pairs (inpatients, day-care patients) with mental or psychosomatic disorders were assessed with the Multidimensional Social Contact Circle Questionnaire (MuSC-Q). Patients and their partners were asked to characterize their mutual relationship.

Results: Patients who were married or living together with a partner were more often treated in day care. Social integration and social strain similarly decreased during inpatient and day-care treatment whereas emotional support increased. While both patient groups evaluated the relationship to their partner similarly, the partners of day-care patients saw more strain on their relationship during hospitalization.

Conclusion: The results suggest that patients who do not live alone prefer the day-care treatment facility. Patients in both modes of care at the end see their partnership as more supportive. For their partners, day care means that they have greater burdens to cope with when the patient is in treatment and still at home.
The Association of Immigrant- and Non-Immigrant-Specific Factors With Mental Ill Health Among Immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Tinghög Petter , Al-Saffar Suad , Carstensen John , Nordenfelt Lennart
Published: July 2009

Background: It has often been shown that immigrants are particularly at risk for mental ill health. The aim of the study was to investigate the association of immigrant- and non-immigrant-specific factors with mental ill health within a diverse immigrant population.

Method: An extensive questionnaire was sent out to a stratified random sample of three immigrant populations from Finland, Iraq and Iran. The 720 respondents completed a Swedish, Arabic or Farsi (Persian) version of the questionnaire including the WHO (10) Well-Being Index and the HSCL-25.

Results: The results indicate that mental ill health among immigrants is independently associated with non-immigrant-specific factors (i.e. high number of types of traumatic episodes, divorced/widowed, poor social network, economic insecurity and being female) and immigrant-specific factors (i.e. low level of sociocultural adaptation). These results were obtained regardless of whether mental ill health was operationalized as low subjective well-being or a high symptom level of anxiety/depression.

Conclusions: These fi ndings support the notion that mental ill health among immigrants is a multi-faceted phenomenon that needs to be tackled within a wide range of sectors — e.g. the healthcare system, the social service sector and, of course, the political arena.
Migration and Mental Health: a Study of Low-Income Ethiopian Women Working in Middle Eastern Countries
Authors: Anbesse Birke , Hanlon Charlotte , Alem Atalay , Packer Samuel , Whitley Rob
Published: July 2009

Background: Few studies have explored influences on mental health of migrants moving between non-Western countries.

Methods: Focus group discussions were used to explore the experiences of Ethiopian female domestic migrants to Middle Eastern countries, comparing those who developed severe mental illness with those remaining mentally well.

Discussion: Prominent self-identified threats to mental health included exploitative treatment, enforced cultural isolation, undermining of cultural identity and disappointment in not achieving expectations. Participants countered these risks by affirming their cultural identity and establishing socio-cultural supports.

Conclusions: Mental health of migrant domestic workers may be jeopardized by stressors, leading to experience of social defeat.
Ataque De Nervios as a Marker of Social and Psychiatric Vulnerability: Results From the NLAAS
Authors: Guarnaccia Peter J. , Lewis-Fernandez Roberto , Martinez Pincay Igda , Shrout Patrick , Guo Jing , Torres Maria , Canino Glorisa , Alegria Margarita
Published: July 2009

Background: This article presents the fi rst epidemiological portrait of ataques de nervios among Latinos in the mainland United States. Much of the previous literature has focused on Puerto Ricans in Puerto Rico and New York City.

Aims: This study examines the social and psychiatric correlates of ataque de nervios in a nationally representative sample of Latinos in the United States.

Methods: This study employs data from the Latino sample (N = 2554) of the National Latino and Asian American Study (NLAAS). Analyses examined the associations between ataques de nervios and a range of social and migration variables, as well as psychiatric diagnoses and measures of mental health need.

Results: Ataques de nervios were reported by 7—15% of the different Latino groups, with Puerto Ricans reporting the highest frequency . Ataques de nervios were more frequent in women, those with disrupted marital status, and those more acculturated to the US. The frequency of those who met criteria for affective, anxiety and substance abuse disorders was higher among those reporting an ataque de nervios.

Conclusion: Ataque de nervios can serve as an important indicator of social and psychiatric vulnerability in future epidemiological and clinical studies with Latino populations.
Views and Experiences of Family/whanau Carers of Psychiatric Service Users on Diagnosis and Classification
Authors: Laird Barbara , Smith Barry , Dutu Gaelle , Mellsop Graham
Published: July 2009

Background: Family ( whanau) and other carers can play a central part in the natural history of psychiatric service users. Diagnoses or the classification of mental disorders play a significant role in communications between clinicians, psychiatric service users, and family. Despite that centrality, the views and experiences of family on the utility of the present classification systems have been little studied.

Aims: This study aimed to document the understanding and opinions of families/ whanau on the utility of diagnostic labels as they observed them being applied to their family members.

Method: This is a qualitative study. The families of two cultural groups (New Zealand Maori and non-Maori) of psychiatric service users were interviewed using a structured approach.

Results: A number of themes on the utility of the diagnostic systems emerged. The single most powerful message being that how the diagnostic labels were communicated, and how they were utilized in the patient management planning, were of paramount importance. There were some cross-cultural differences. From Maori, there was a particular plea for a greater incorporation of culturally syntonic concepts.

Conclusion: Family/ whanau had positive views of the contributions current diagnostic practices make to patient care. The study elicited the view that more contextual issues, and not just phenomenology, should be taken into account in the development of diagnostic systems.
Prolonged Grief Disorder, Depression, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Bereaved Kosovar Civilian War Survivors: a Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Morina Nexhmedin , Rudari Visar , Bleichhardt Gaby , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: July 2009

Background: This study aimed at examining diagnostic concordance between Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among bereaved war survivors who had lost relatives due to war-related violence.

Method: We investigated the rates of PGD and its association with PTSD and MDD among 60 bereaved people who had lost first-degree relatives due to war-related violence seven years ago and had also experienced other war-related events.

Results: The results indicated that 38.3% of the sample fulfilled the criteria for PGD, 55.0% for PTSD, and 38.3% for MDD. Thirty per cent of the participants without PTSD and 21.6% of those without MDD met criteria for PGD. Women were more likely to have PGD than men. The immediate threat to life was significantly associated with an elevated risk for PTSD and MDD, but not PGD.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that many cases of PGD would be missed by an exclusive focus on PTSD among bereaved war survivors.
Assessing Mental Health Outcomes of Political Violence and Civil Unrest in Peru
Authors: Tremblay Jacques , Pedersen Duncan , Errazuriz Consuelo
Published: July 2009

Background: Sustained political violence (SPV) may have long-term effects.

Aims: To assess mental and residual effects of exposure to SPV. To validate a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) assessment tool in Quechua-speaking Peru.

Method: Survey of 373 individuals aged 15 and over using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-25) and a Trauma Questionnaire (TQ), derived from the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire. Sociodemographics were recorded. Reliability was assessed. Data reduction used factor analysis and modelling multiple regressions.

Results: A quarter of the sample had symptoms compatible with PTSD. Questionnaire reliability ranged from 0.81 to 0.89. Factor analysis confirmed high construct validity for TQ and HSCL-25. Modelling showed a strong association of PTSD-related symptoms and expressions of distress with the degree of exposure to SPV, especially among returnees.

Conclusions: Long-term consequences of exposure to SPV take the form of PTSD, anxiety and depressive disorders, and culturally formulated expressions of distress. Some implications for clinicians are discussed.
An Evaluation of New Services for Personality-Disordered Offenders: Staff and Service User Perspectives
Authors: Fortune Zoë , Rose Diana , Crawford Mike , Slade Mike , Spence Ruth , Mudd David , Barrett Barbara , Coid Jeremy W. , Tyrer Peter , Moran Paul
Published: July 2009

Background: Little is known about effective treatment for personality-disordered (PD) offenders. We aimed to obtain the perspective of service users and staff on: (a) the experience of receiving treatment; and (b) the experience of delivering treatment, within new forensic services for PD offenders.

Material: Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative interviews with 30 service users and 22 staff.

Discussion: Service users perceived that they were making positive changes in the areas of anger management, communication, self-harm, self-esteem and insight into their difficulties. Undertaking the clinical work was extremely stressful for staff.

Conclusions: Forensic PD services may be having an important impact on the quality of service users’ lives. Whether treatment is successful in reducing long-term risk to others remains to be seen, and the cost-effectiveness of these services needs to be examined.
Suicide Victims’ Last Contact With the Primary Care Physician: Report From Slovenia
Authors: Mesec Rodi Petra , Roškar Saška , Marušič Andrej
Published: July 2009

Background: Previous studies have reported that many suicide victims have had contact with their physicians a week or month prior to their suicide.

Aims: To assess the date of the last appointment (and complaint) of suicide victims in the Škofja Loka region within Slovenia.

Method: We included all suicide victims in the region in the period 1993—2003. Each of the cases was assigned the closest control in terms of age and gender. Medical death certificates served as a source of demographic data information and information about suicide method. From personal medical records we obtained the date of the last appointment (and the complaint) with the primary care physician. The same was done for the control group. The groups were compared for their last appointment with their physician (date and complaint).

Results: Thirty out of 77 suicide victims visited their physician in the last month before suicide (14/77 in the last week); only 16/77 controls did so before the index day (3/77 in the last week). In 30% of suicide victims, the reason for the last visit was mental health problems (only 3% in the control group).

Conclusion: The results emphasize the important role of primary care physicians in suicide prevention.
The Relationship Between Elderly Suicide Rates and the Internet: a Cross-National Study
Authors: Shah Ajit
Published: July 2009

Background: Suicide rates generally increase with age. Internet websites and chat rooms have been reported both to promote suicides and to have a positive beneficial effect on suicidal individuals. The role of the internet in elderly suicides has not been studied.

Methods: The relationship between elderly suicide rates and the prevalence of internet users was examined in a cross-national study using data from the World Health Organization and the United Nations website.

Results: The prevalence of internet users was significantly and positively correlated with suicide rates in both genders in the age bands 65—74 years and 75+ years. On multiple regression analysis the prevalence of internet users was independently associated with suicide rates in both genders in both age bands.

Conclusion: Caution should be exercised in the attribution of a causal relationship and the direction of this relationship because of the cross-sectional and ecological study design whereby the findings are subject to ecological fallacy. However, the findings identify and support a need for further research.
Cultural Appropriateness of the Family Assessment Device (FAD) in the Case of Ethnic Armenian Adolescents in Lebanon
Authors: Kazarian Shahe S.
Published: July 2009

Background: The purpose of this study is to report on the cultural appropriateness of the 60-item Armenian version of the Family Assessment Device (FAD) among ethnic Armenian adolescents in the ethnically and religiously pluralist Lebanon.

Method: A total of 558 Armenian adolescents in Grades 10, 11 and 12 completed the Armenian FAD scale and the Self-Family Closeness (SFC) scale in a randomized order. The internal consistencies and intercorrelations of the Armenian FAD domains were examined, as were their correlations with the SFC ratings.

Results: The Armenian FAD and its General Functioning subscale showed excellent internal consistencies (α = 0.89 and α = 0.80, respectively), whereas the reliabilities were satisfactory for the family domains of Communication and Role functioning but less than satisfactory for the Affective Responsiveness , Problem Solving, Affective Involvement and Behaviour Control domains. The Armenian FAD scale and its subscales correlated with each other and with SFC ratings ( r = —0.55 for Armenian FAD scale; r = —0.57 for General Functioning), and showed sensitivity to gender differences, females reporting better family functioning than males.

Conclusions: Overall, the findings support the cultural appropriateness of the 12-item Armenian FAD General Functioning subscale and its advantage over the 60-item scale. The findings also suggest the need to rethink the items of the four Armenian FAD domains with low internal consistencies for their increased cultural relevance in the case of Armenian adolescents in Lebanon.
Predicting Behavioural Intentions to Those With Mental Illness: the Role of Attitude Specificity and Norms
Authors: Norman Ross M.G. , Sorrentino Richard M. , Windell Deborah , Ye Yang , Szeto Andrew C.H. , Manchanda Rahul
Published: July 2009

Background: Social psychological research suggests that prediction of behavioural intentions towards those with mental illness could be increased by assessing attitudes towards specific actions or behaviours and by including a measure of perceived normative expectations by others concerning such behaviours.

Aims: To investigate whether attitudes towards specific behaviours and perceived normative expectations improve prediction of behavioural intentions towards a person with mental illness.

Methods: Two studies were carried out; one with university undergraduates and one with community service club members. Each included assessments of attitudes towards a person described as having a mental illness; attitudes towards specific behaviours reflecting social distance; perceived descriptive and injunctive norms with reference to those behaviours; and behavioural intentions.

Results: Attitude towards the specifi c behaviour frequently showed a higher correlation with behavioural intentions than did attitude towards the person. Inclusion of perceived norms also improved prediction of behavioural intention.

Conclusions: The prediction of behavioural intentions towards those with mental illness may be improved by increasing the specificity of the attitude measures to the behavioural intentions being predicted and including measures of perceived norms. Furthermore, the effectiveness of efforts to reduce the stigma of mental illness may be increased by addressing their impact on perceived norms.
Job Satisfaction and Burnout Among Staff Working in Community-Based Personality Disorder Services
Authors: Crawford Mike J. , Adedeji Toyin , Price Katy , Rutter Deborah
Published: July 2009

Aims: To examine levels of burnout among staff working in community-based services for people with personality disorder (PD) and to explore factors which add to or lower the risk of burnout among people working in such services.

Methods: In-depth interviews with staff working at 11 dedicated community-based personality disorder services in England together with a cross-sectional staff survey using the Maslach Burnout Inventory.

Results: Levels of burnout were generally lower than those reported in previous studies among mental health workers and levels of personal accomplishment were higher. Staff reported positive as well as negative experiences of working with people with PD. Strong team-work, clear leadership and opportunities for reflective practice were thought to protect staff from burnout.

Conclusions: The low levels of burnout we found may reflect the early stage of the development of these services. However, it is also possible that working with people with PD does not in itself lead to burnout, especially when services are organized to share and contain work-related anxiety.
Subjective and Objective Indicators of Recovery in Severe Mental Illness: a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lloyd Chris , King Robert , Moore Liz
Published: July 2009

Background: This study aimed to determine whether subjective dimensions of recovery such as empowerment are associated with self-report of more objective indicators such as level of participation in the community and income from employment. A secondary aim was to investigate the extent to which diagnosis or other consumer characteristics mediated any relationship between these variables.

Methods: The Community Integration Measure, the Empowerment Scale, the Recovery Assessment Scale, and the Camberwell Assessment of Needs Short Appraisal Schedule were administered to a convenience sample of 161 consumers with severe mental illness.

Results: The majority of participants had a primary diagnosis of schizophreniform, anxiety/depression or bipolar affective disorder. The Empowerment Scale was quite strongly correlated with the Recovery Assessment Scale and the Community Integration Measure. Participants with a diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder had signifi cantly higher recovery and empowerment scores than participants with schizophrenia or depression. Both empowerment and recovery scores were significantly higher for people engaged in paid employment than for those receiving social security benefits.

Conclusions: The measurement of subjective dimensions of recovery such as empowerment has validity in evaluation of global recovery for people with severe mental illness. A diagnosis of bipolar disorder is associated with higher scores on subjective and objective indicators of recovery.
But Some of Them Don’t Come Back (to Prison!)
Authors: Bucklen Kristofer Bret , Zajac Gary
Published: July 2009

This article reports on a study of the causes and correlates of parole success and failure in Pennsylvania. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups were conducted with parole violators and parole successes. Data were collected on employment, housing, social relations, supervision, and parolees’ responses to parole challenges. The primary correlates of parole failure were found to be antisocial attitudes, poor problem-solving and coping skills, and unrealistic expectations about life after release from prison. Contrary to expectations, this study found little evidence that job acquisition or housing were significant parole challenges. The greatest problem for parolees was managing themselves in a prosocial manner while facing demands from their environment.
Racial and Ethnic Recidivism Risks
Authors: McGovern Virginia , Demuth Stephen , Jacoby Joseph E.
Published: July 2009

Despite a large and rapidly growing Hispanic population in the United States, few researchers have attempted to examine what happens to Hispanic offenders once they have been released from criminal justice control. The present study helps fill this gap by examining differences in the likelihood of recidivism between White, Black, and Hispanic prison releasees using three different recidivism measures: rearrest, reconviction, and reincarceration. The authors use Bureau of Justice Statistics data that track a cohort of offenders for 3 years after their release in 1994 from state and federal prisons. Overall, the study findings show that White releasees have the lowest levels of recidivism and Black releasees have the highest levels of recidivism, net of important legal factors associated with recidivism risk; Hispanic recidivism levels are between those of White and Black releasees. Any conclusions drawn about the relative recidivism risk of Hispanic releasees vis-à-vis Black and White releasees must, however, consider how recidivism is measured. The study finds that Hispanic rearrest and reconviction levels more closely mirror those of Whites, but Hispanic reincarceration levels are more similar to those of Blacks. The authors discuss these findings in light of a growing body of research suggesting that Hispanic defendants may face more punitive outcomes relative to similarly situated White (and even Black) defendants at various stages of the criminal case process because they are perceived as more blameworthy and a greater threat to public safety than other defendants.