bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between self-efficacy and well-being, and distress, in women with unexplained infertility
Authors: Batinic B. , Lazarevic J. , Dragojevic-Dikic S.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

One of the most difficult aspects of unexplained infertility treatments are feelings of uncertainty and the perception that infertility is beyond one's personal control, both of which make the infertility situation more threatening and stressful.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the correlation between general self-efficacy and infertility specific well-being and distress among women with unexplained infertility.

Methods

The sample consisted of 97 women with unexplained infertility aged between 22 and 46 years old (mean age: 33.58), who were recruited from the obstetrics and gynecology clinic “National front”. Mean duration of conception attempts was 3.10 years. The General Self-Efficacy Scale and the Infertility Specific Well-Being and Distress Scales were applied in the study.

Results

The mean score on the General Self-Efficacy Scale was 32.77 (SD = 4.624), on the Well-Being scale 3.22 (SD = 0.984) and on the Distress scale 1.94 (SD = 0.754). There was a positive correlation between intensity of infertility specific well-being and general self-efficacy (r = 0.502; P < 0.01) and a negative correlation between infertility specific distress and general self-efficacy (r = −0.265; P < 0.01). Women with unexplained infertility with higher self-efficacy expressed higher levels of well-being and lower levels of distress.

Conclusion

The results of our study indicate that women with unexplained infertility who perceive their problems as being beyond their control express higher levels of stress and lower levels of well-being. Psychological treatment of women with unexplained infertility should focus on the aspects that can be influenced through psychotherapy.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Complementary and integrative medicine approach for climacteric disorders
Authors: Gamus D.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Menopausal symptom clusters of vasomotor symptoms (VMS), sleep and mood symptoms may last for years and might lead to an increased risk of depression.

While hormone replacement therapy is still the most effective therapy for reducing VMS, which are the most prominent symptoms of menopause, the majority of women prefer to choose nonhormonal therapies, either because of medical contraindications or personal beliefs and turn to complementary and integrative medicine (CIM).

The objective of this presentation is to review the evidence on nonpharmacologic, nonherbal management treatments of CIM in climacteric disorders.

Methods

A systematic review of PubMed database was performed using the key-words: acupuncture, hypnosis, yoga, massage, homeopathy and menopause.

Results

The research of CIM modalities is evolving. The 2015 position statement of the North American menopause society (NAMS) recommended the use of CBT and hypnosis for the management of VMS. The most recent studies on the effect of acupuncture on VMS however yielded conflicting results: while NAMS concluded that acupuncture is not recommended for managing VMS, later studies produced a positive evidence both for managing of VMS and menopause-related sleep disturbances by this therapeutically modality. There is also some evidence that acupuncture, massage and yoga may alleviate symptoms of depression and that individualized homeopathic treatment may be more effective than placebo for depression in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that acupuncture, hypnosis, yoga, massage and homeopathy may be adopted as a part of multimodal approach in treatment of climacteric disorders.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Coping behaviors in mothers with an atypical child
Authors: Kékes Szabó M.
Published: June 2017

Nowadays an increased interest seems to be developing concerning the coping strategies of parents with an autistic child. Several studies focused on the gender differences or tried to explore the effect of the levels of the child's behavioral symptoms. Although most of the previous studies made comparisons at a single point in time, some longitudinal research also came to light in the last decades. The results usually confirmed characteristic patterns of the parents’ coping behavior. The aim of this study was to compare coping behaviors in mothers with a child living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Down-syndrome (DS), since until now there has been no investigation into this question, even though it plays an important role in stressful occasions that are inevitable and frequent concomitants of these families’ life. This time a cross-sectional study has been carried out. The selected research method was composed of semi-structured interviews, self-administered questionnaires and participant observation. 5-5 mothers were involved in the study with a child living with ASD or DS. In addition to this, five mothers with a typically developing child also participated in the research. The age of the children varied between four and nine years. According to the earlier studies, a higher level of stress was experienced by atypical children's mothers, and emotion-focused coping strategies were also more often used by them. Task-focused coping was associated with a lower level of experienced stress in the family system. However, further studies are needed to explore other correlations of the examined field.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Spectrum of medical and social problems in the female opium addicts
Authors: Shigakova F.
Published: June 2017

Aim

The work was initiated to study peculiarities of medical and social problems of the female opium addiction.

Materials and methods

We examined 56 female opiate addicts aged from 18 to 56 (mean age 31.8 ± 1.09 years) hospitalized at the tertiary detox center (Tashkent). Twenty of the examinees (35.7%) were managed for the first time, 36 patients (64.3%) being treated iteratively.

Results and discussion

Seventeen women were employed, only three of them were working in their specialization. Thirty-nine patients were either unemployed or engaged in the unskilled labor, that is, the one being out of tune with their education level. Eight examinees served penal servitudes, eleven women being detained without imprisonment. The findings reflect disorders in social adaptation of the most examinees. Drug addiction onset time varied from 19 to 25 years (22.1 ± 1.12 years in the average), but the age range from 20 to 23 was the most frequent one. Duration of episodic taking ranged from 1 month to 2.5 years (2.4 ± 0.7 months in the average). In 10 patients (20%) withdrawal syndrome has formed rapidly, in 1–2 months. Drug dose is partially associated with a patient's ability to pay and heroin accessibility.

Almost half of our 56 examinees had drug using husband, cohabitant or sex partner. Quality of remissions was found to greatly depend on a drug using sex partner.

Conclusions

Medical and social consequences of the female drug addiction are quite severe to mention early psycho-social disadaptation, prostitution and illegal actions, including thefts, document forgery, drug pushing.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Group art therapy for the management of fear of giving birth
Authors: Ünsalver B.Ö. , Sezen C.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Fear of giving birth may affect many pregnant women. Fear of childbirth leads to an increase in C-section demands and the ratio of C-section births. Group therapy addresses at least 8 people at the same time, which both saves time and treatment expenses.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of group art therapy for the management of fear of giving birth.

Methods

Thirty women volunteers in the third trimester of pregnancy who were attending a public women's hospital and who had fear of giving birth were included in the study. They were randomly distributed to 2 groups. First group (n = 15) received 6 sessions of group art therapy. Second group (n = 15) received 6 sessions of psychoeducation regarding fear of giving birth. Each weekly psychotherapy session lasted 130 minutes.

Results

By the end of the six weeks Beck depression scale (BDS) scores, Beck Anxiety Scale (BAS) scores and Wijma delivery expectancy/experience questionnaire version A (W-DEQ) scores decreased significantly in the group art therapy group (P < 0.001). In contrast, the psychoeducation group showed no significant changes in terms of BDS, BAS, W-DEQ scores.

Conclusions

Our study shows that group art therapy may be a promising cost-effective treatment method to manage fear of giving birth in pregnant women. The study needs to be replicated in women coming from different cultures and socioeconomic statuses to establish group art therapy for the treatment of fear of giving birth.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Playing Video Games – Psychical Threat to Adults?
Authors: Toś M. , Wilk E. , Myszczuk A. , Bratek A. , Krzysztof K.
Published: June 2017

Background

Video games become increasingly popular form of spending free time, therefore they are often a research subject. Researchers focus mainly on video games influence over children's psyche and their social interactions, although video games can also have an impact on adult's behaviour.

Objectives

Incidence of social anxiety disorder and impulsiveness among video game players and non-players.

Material and methods

An anonymous online survey included 263 students of medical university of Silesia (112 M and 151 W). In study group, 142 people (54%) declared to be players. Questionnaire contained questions about playing time, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale and Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using the statistical software package Statistica 12.

Results

Using Liebowitz Scale in 168 (64.86%) all studied people lack of phobia was found, moderate social phobia 39 (15.06%), marked social phobia 26 (10.03%), severe social phobia 17(6.56%) and very severe social phobia 9(3.47%). There was no statistical significance between players and non-players (test Chi2P = 0.6521). Also in Barratt Scale statistical significance was not found in attentional impulsiveness (test U M-W P = 0.3267) and in Motor impulsiveness (test U M-W P = 0.3140). Statistical significance was observed in Non-planning impulsiveness (players: 23.68 V non-players: 22.02; test U M-W P = 0.0036).

Conclusions

The study did not show clear influence adult's video games playing over social phobia and impulsiveness occurrence.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Could Deficits in the Recognition of Emotions that Indicate Social Approval be Associated with Musical Performance Anxiety?
Authors: Osório F.L. , Sabino A.D. , Camargo C.M.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Proper recognition of facial expressions of emotion is crucial for human social relationships. Impairments in the capacity to process facial information may play an important role in the etiology and maintenance of certain mental disorders, especially music performance anxiety (MPA).

Objective

To assess the recognition of facial expressions of emotion in musicians compared to a group of subjects from the general population, considering also the presence/absence of MPA.

Methods

Hundred and fifty amateur and/or professional musicians who regularly take part in public performances (GM) and 150 subjects from the general population (GP) completed a task of facial emotion recognition and were assessed in terms of accuracy and reaction time. The group of musicians was subdivided between subjects with and without MPA indicators. Data were analyzed using Student's t test (P < 0.05) within the statistical package for the social sciences.

Results

GM were less accurate and had a longer reaction time in the recognition of facial happiness (P < 0.001, effect size: 0.25–0.44) compared to GP. Musicians with MPA had a still lower accuracy in the recognition of happiness, as well as longer reaction times for emotions as a whole (P < 0.04; effect size: 0.32–0.40) compared to musicians without MPA.

Conclusion

The poorer performance of musicians in the recognition of happiness suggests difficulties to recognize indicators of social approval, which may negatively affect performance through increased anxiety and negative thoughts that can favor the onset of MPA.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Pharmacogenetic Association Between Glutamatergic Genes and Sri Treatment Response in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Shukla T. , Jabeen Taj R.M.J. , Kulkarni K. , Shetty P. , Viswanath B. , Purushottam M. , Reddy Y.C. , Jain S.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Pharmacogenetic studies in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) primarily focussing on serotonergic and dopaminergic polymorphisms, provided inconsistent findings. There is recent evidence for glutamatergic abnormalities in OCD.

Aims

Examine the association glutamatergic genes with serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) response in OCD.

Objectives

To study pharmacogenetic association between SLC1A1 and GRIN2B polymorphisms with SRI response in OCD.

Methods

DSM-IV OCD patients were recruited from a specialty OCD clinic and evaluated using the Yale-Brown obsessive compulsive scale (YBOCS), Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) plus, Clinical Global Impression scale (CGI). They were subsequently reassessed with YBOCS and CGI. To study extreme phenotypes, we included only full responders (> 35% YBOCS improvement and CGI-I score of 1 or 2) to any SRI (n = 191) and non-responders (< 25% YBOCS improvement and CGI-I score ≥ 4) to adequate trial of at least two SRIs (n = 84). Partial responders were excluded. Genotyping was performed using an ABI9700 PCR machine.

Results

Genotype frequencies did not deviate significantly from the values predicted by the Hardy-Weinberg equation. Case-control association analyses revealed no significant association between genotype/allele frequencies with SRI response.

Conclusion

Our data does not show any association between polymorphisms in glutamatergic genes and SRI response in OCD though such associations have been found in other studies. More SNP's in the same gene could be responsible for the pharmacogenetic associations. More homogenous sample considering symptom dimensions and other phenotypic variables may be needed. It may be critical to go beyond “usual suspect” candidate gene research. In this regard, a novel approach to identify SRI response biomarkers is the use of cellular models.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
E-Mental Health for Mental Disorders–Focus on Psychotic Disorders and PTSD
Authors: Gaebel W.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

E- mental health technologies have developed rapidly over the past years and may support finding solutions to challenges like scarce resources or the treatment gap in psychiatry.

Objectives

Provision of guidance on eMental health technologies in the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder and psychotic disorders.

Methods

Two evidence- and consensus-based EPA Guidance papers on eMental health technologies for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and psychotic disorders were developed.

Conclusions

The evidence on the efficacy of e-mental health interventions for the treatment of PTSD and psychotic disorders is promising. However, more research is needed in the field.

Disclosure of interest

Unterstützung bei Symposien/Symposia Support

− Janssen-Cilag GmbH, Neuss

− Aristo Pharma GmbH, Berlin

− Lilly Deutschland GmbH, Bad Homburg

− Servier Deutschland GmbH, München

Fakultätsmitglied/Faculty Member

− Lundbeck International Neuroscience Foundation (LINF), Dänemark
Serum of Bipolar Patients Induces Pro-inflammatory Activation of Macrophages
Authors: Dubou Serafim S. , Ferrari P. , Colombo R. , Paul Géa L. , Migliorini Parisi M. , Becker M. , Ascoli B.M. , Fries G. , Kauer-Sant’anna M. , Kapczinski F. , Klamt F. , Guma F. T.C.R. , Ribeiro Rosa A. , Barbé-Tuana F.M.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Evidence has suggested that immune imbalance is involved with bipolar disorder (BD); however, its precise mechanism is poorly understood.

Objective

This study investigated whether biochemical changes in the serum from BD patients could modulate the phenotype of macrophages.

Methods

Eighteen subjects with BD and healthy individuals (n = 5) were included in this study. The human monocyte cell line U-937 was activated with PMA (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate) and polarization was induced with RPMI-1640 media supplemented with 10% serum from each patient for 24 h. Gene expression of selected M1 and M2 markers was assessed by qPCR.

Results

Macrophages exposed to serum of manic and depressive BD patients displayed an increase of IL-1β (6.40 ± 3.47 and 9.04 ± 5.84 versus 0.23 ± 0.11; P < 0.05) and TNF-α (2.23 ± 0.91 and 2.03 ± 0.45 versus 0.62 ± 0.24; P = 0.002 and P = 0.004, respectively) compared to remitted group. In parallel, U-937 macrophages treated with serum of patients in acute episode displayed a down-regulation of CXCL9 (0.29 ± 0.20 versus 1.86 ± 1.61; P = 0.006) and CXCL10 expression (0.36 ± 0.15 and 0.86 ± 0.24 versus 1.83 ± 0.88; P < 0.000 and P = 0.04) compared to remitters.

Conclusions

Our results are consistent with previous studies showing that changes in peripheral blood markers could modulate M1/M2 polarization in BD. The evidence of macrophages as source of inflammatory cytokines might be helpful to unravel how the mononuclear phagocyte system can be involved in the etiology of BD.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Bipolar Disorder and Cannabis
Authors: Jmii G. , Zghal M. , Ghali F. , Mezghenni M. , Jouini L. , Robbana L. , Ellouze F. , Mrad F.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

People with bipolar disorder frequently struggle with substance abuse and dependence. Typically, cannabis is the most commonly abused drug in individuals with bipolar disorder. Some investigators have implied that cannabis may actually be mood stabilizing in patients with bipolar disorder. However, the relationships between cannabis use and bipolar disorders are complex and remain incompletely described.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics of addiction to cannabis in bipolar patients type I and determine the consequences of cannabis on the expression of bipolar illness and prognosis.

Methods

This is a comparative cross-sectional study which included patients followed in the psychiatry department of the G Razi hospital for bipolar disorder type I and for substance dependence according to DSM IV diagnostic criteria. Hetero-questionnaire on sociodemographic variables, clinical and treatment.

Results

The average age was 41 years. The average hospital stay was 9.18 days. 33.33% of patients were monitored regularly. Most patients were single and worked as a day labourer. Cannabis was the most consumed substance. Cannabis use was prior to the expression of psychiatric illness in 55% of cases. The average number of hospitalisation in patients with a cannabis addiction was significantly greater than that observed in the non-addicted group. Similarly, the average number of suicide attempts among patients with cannabis addiction was significantly higher than the group without cannabis addiction.

Conclusions

Aggressive drug abuse treatment immediately after a first psychiatric hospitalisation might decrease rates of recurrence and new cases of cannabis use disorder in the course of bipolar disorder.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Caregiver Depression Screening in a Child and Adolescent Clinic Seeking Consultation for their Children with Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity in Oman
Authors: Balushi N. Al , Samir A.A.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Studies have shown that caregivers of children with (ADHD) are at a higher risk of mood disorders such as depression. The presence of mood disorders among the caregivers of children with ADHD has negative repercussion in terms of prognostic indicator, utilization of the health care service and the resultant quality of life.

Objectives

To solicit the performance of indices of depression among caregivers of children with ADHD and to explore the relationship between severity of mood score, subtypes of ADHD and socio-demographic factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Oman dispensing child and adolescent mental health services. Arabic-version of PHQ-9 was used screen for the presence of depression among the caregivers of children diagnosed with ADHD based on DSM 5. The severity and subtypes of ADHD were quantified using Vanderbilt ADHD Parent/Teacher Rating Scale. Socio-demographic background and clinical data were gathered from medical records or attending caregivers.

Results

The study included 100 caregivers of children with ADHD. Most of the primary caregivers were mothers (92%). Using the cutoff score of 12 on the PHQ-9, rates of depression for the mother was 14%. Some socio-demographic factors were strongly associated with severity of depressive symptom.

Conclusion

This study suggests that depressive symptoms as elicited by PHQ-9 are common among caregivers of children with ADHD. The rate of depressive symptoms is higher compared to the general population in Oman. This study lays groundwork for contemplating mechanisms to mitigate depressive symptoms among caregivers of children with ADHD.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Cognitive Vulnerability to Depression in Adolescents with Depression, their Healthy Siblings and a Control Group: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Chartier G. , Garel P. , Herba C. , Booij L.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

At least half of first depressive episode appear before adulthood. A negative cognitive bias is present among individuals who suffer from major depression. This bias is also reported among individuals at high risk of major depression (e.g. child of depressed mother). When present, cognitive vulnerability may predispose to major depression. No study to date aimed to evaluate the cognitive vulnerability of siblings of depressed individuals.

Objectives and aims

To review the principles behind cognitive vulnerability. To assess cognitive vulnerability in depressed adolescents, in healthy siblings and in a control group.

Methods

Eighty adolescents (27 adolescents treated for depression, 24 healthy siblings and 29 controls), aged between 12 and 20 years old, were recruited and assessed using validated measures of bio-psycho-social vulnerabilities. All diagnoses were confirmed using a K-SADS interview. Cortisol level samples were obtained through morning saliva. Cognitive vulnerability was assessed using self-report questionnaires (CES-D, LEIDS-R, EPQ) as well as computer-based tasks (Ekman's tasks of facial recognition and the movie for assessment of social cognition [MASC]). We translated the MASC from German to French. The parents of the adolescents also filled the LEIDSR and the CESD.

Results

The LEIDS-R presented a significant increase in certain subscales (hopelessness, aggression and rumination) compared to the healthy siblings and the controls. Interestingly, there was also a correlation between the LEIDS R results of the parents and of the depressed adolescent (r = 0.43, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

The LEIDSR appears to be the most sensitive task to detect cognitive vulnerability. A relation between the parent response and the depressed adolescent response could be found.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Perceived Competence in Adolescents Having Prosocial Behaviour: A Tunisian Study
Authors: Charfi N. , Kammoun W. , Ben Thabet J. , Mâalej Bouali M. , Zouari N. , Zouari L. , Mâalej M.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Perceived competence (PC) is a self-perception of an individual in its capabilities and ability to control his environment. It is posited to orient individuals to the possibility of success and to facilitate the adoption of approach goals.

Objectives

We aimed to assess the PC of adolescents engaged in prosocial activities and to determine factors that influence it.

Methods

We led a transversal study, over four months, from June until September 2016. It included 90 adolescents aged 14–20 years and members of voluntary association in Sfax (Tunisia). PC was assessed using the “perceived competence in life domains” (PCLD) for the life spheres of leisure, interpersonal relationships, school, and general domains.

Results

The average age of participants was 16 (14 to 20 years). The sample was female-dominated (53%). All participants were secondary school pupils. Almost 70% were from a high socio-economic level and over 60% had parents’ high level of education.

The mean scores of PC ranged from 19 (SD = 5.4) in leisure domain to 16 (SD = 4) in interpersonal relationships domain. PC was significantly correlated with socio-economic level (P = 0.00), participating in sports and extra- curricular activities (P = 0.00), academic proficiency (P = 0.01) and smoking (P = 0.00).

Conclusion

Overall, our results evidenced the positive self-perception of competence among adolescents having prosocial activities. It indicated that high socio-economic level, participating in sports and extra-curricular activities and smoking were enhancing factors of adolescents PC.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
The Influences of Antipsychotics Therapy at Cognitive Impairments in Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Dedovic J. , Tomcuk A. , Mijatovic-Papic T. , Matkovic N.
Published: June 2017

Significant degree of cognitive impairment represents one of the basic cornerstones among clinical manifestations of the schizophrenia spectrum disorders and accordingly to some authors it is present in up to 75% patients with these syndromes. The aim of this study was to examine degree of cognitive impairment, firstly among patients on first generation antipsychotics therapy (FGA) compared to the patients on second generation antipsychotics therapy (SGA), and secondly to compare both groups of patients with healthy controls.

Material and methods

Prospective, parallel research was conducted, in which the sample of patients and employees of Specialized Psychiatric Hospital Kotor was tested with Montreal Cognition Scale (MoCA). There were 66 participants in the samples and they were divided on four subgroups: (1) patients with FGA; (2) patients with SGA; (3) patients with combined FGA and SGA; (4) Healthy controls.

Results

All groups of patients had statistically significantly lower mean MoCA scores in the comparison with healthy controls. The fact that among 83.7% of patients was diagnosed significant degree of cognitive decline (MoCA score bellow 26) strongly speaks in favour of high sensitivity of MoCA test in detection of cognitive impairment among patients with schizophrenia spectrum psychotic disorders. In addition, the group of patients with FGA also had statistically significantly lower mean MoCA score compared to patients with SGA.

Discussion

The mechanisms of explanation of these results can be additionally enlightened with further studies on larger samples of patients, which would investigate the correlation between extrapyramidal symptomatology, anticholinergic therapy and cognitive deficit.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Obsessive compulsive Personality Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder Traits in the Obsessive-compulsive Disorder Clinic
Authors: Gadelkarim W. , Shahper S. , Reid J. , Wikramanayake M. , Kaur S. , Kolli S. , Fineberg N. , Osman S.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) is a common, highly co-morbid disorder. Subjected to comparatively little research, OCPD shares aspects of phenomenology and neuropsychology with obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A greater understanding of this interrelationship would provide new insights into its diagnostic classification and generate new research and treatment heuristics.

Aims

To investigate the distribution of OCPD traits within a cohort of OCD patients. To evaluate the clinical overlap between traits of OCPD, OCD and ASD, as well as level of insight and treatment resistance.

Method

We interviewed 73 consenting patients from a treatment seeking OCD Specialist Service. We evaluated the severity of OCPD traits (Compulsive Personality Assessment Scale; CPAS), OCD symptoms (Yale–Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale; Y-BOCS), ASD traits (Adult Autism Spectrum Quotient; AQ) and insight (Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale; BABS).

Results

Out of 67 patients, 24 (36%) met DSM-IV criteria for OCPD, defined using the CPAS. Using Pearson's test, CPAS scores significantly (P < 0.01) correlated with total AQ and selected AQ domains but not with BABS. Borderline significant correlation was observed with Y-BOCS (P = 0.07). OCPD was not over-represented in a highly resistant OCD subgroup.

Conclusion

Disabling OCPD traits are common in the OCD clinic. They strongly associate with ASD traits, less strongly with OCD severity and do not appear related to poor insight or highly treatment-resistant OCD. The impact of OCPD on OCD treatment outcomes requires further research.

Disclosure of interest

This work did not receive funding from external sources. Over the past few years, Dr. Fineberg has received financial support in various forms from the following: Shire, Otsuka, Lundbeck, Glaxo-SmithKline, Servier, Cephalon, Astra Zeneca, Jazz pharmaceuticals, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis, Medical Research Council (UK), National Institute for Health Research (UK), Wellcome Foundation, European College of Neuropsychopharmacology, UK College of Mental Health Pharmacists, British Association for Psychopharmacology, International College of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders, International Society for Behavioural Addiction, World Health Organization, Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Effect of Electroconvulsive Therapy on Serum Serotonin Level in Patients with Treatment–Resistant Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Agha Mohammad Hasani P. , Mokhtaree M. , Fatemeh M.M. , Mohammad N.
Published: June 2017

Background

This study aimed to determine the effect of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) on serum serotonin level of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

In this experimental study, 36 patients (age: 20–65 years old) with MDD were allocated to ECT group (n = 21) and non-ECT group (n = 15). Serum serotonin level of the ECT group was measured before ECT, 15 minutes and two, six, and 24 hours after the first session, and 24 hours and 30 days after the last ECT session. Measurements were performed at the time of admission and one month after hospitalisation in the non-ECT group. Data analysed with t-tests, repeated measures analysis of variance by SPSS16.

Results

The mean serotonin levels of the two groups were significantly different 24 hours and 30 days after the last session of ECT (P = 0.048 and P = 0.04, respectively). The difference of mean serotonin levels in the ECT group before & 15 min after ECT (P = 0.044) before & 6 hour after ECT (P = 0.015), before & 24 hour after ECT (P = 0.007), before & 24 hour after last ECT (0.002) was meaningful.

Conclusion

Altogether, our results showed that serum serotonin levels significantly increase following ECT in MDD patients.
Cortisol Awakening Response and Depression in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients
Authors: Buonomenna V.M. , Marciello F. , Caivano V. , Cascino G. , D’Agostino G. , Nunziata D. , Monteleone P.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Although the available evidence strongly supports an association between depression and coronary heart disease (CHD), the possible biological link between these two conditions still remains to be clarified. The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is the main endogenous system mediating the stress response and changes in cortisol secretion have been associated with depressed mood in patients with CHD. Therefore, the study of the correlation between cortisol levels and depressed mood in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients could help to clarify the nature of the relationship between ACS and the risk to develop a depressive syndrome.

Objective

We aimed to explore the relationships between HPA axis activity and depressed mood in ACS patients.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the cortisol awakening response (CAR) is associated and/or predict depressive symptoms in patients with an ACS.

Method

Patients admitted to an ACS ward were asked to fill in the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and to collect saliva samples in the morning to measure their CAR. All the procedures were carried out within 1 week after an ACS. Patients were asked again to fill in the BDI six months after their ACS.

Results

A lower CAR was associated with higher BDI scores after 6 months from an ACS.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results suggest that hypoactivity of the HPA axis in the first week of an ACS may predict more severe depressive symptoms after 6 months from the ACS.
Study on Dimensional Facets of Personality as Putative Mediating Factors for Perinatal Depression and Anxiety in Women who Gave Birth in Timis County
Authors: Enatescu V.R. , Craina M. , Papava I. , Romosan R.S. , Balazs O. , Enatescu I.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Antepartum depression has garnered wide recognition from the scientific community in recent years. This has led to the replacement of the term postpartum with perinatal in the 5th edition of the DSM with regards to pregnancy associated depression. Personality may play a significant role in the susceptibility for developing perinatal depression.

Objectives

The current research aimed to analyze the role of different facets of personality in mediating the occurrence of both, perinatal depression and perinatal anxiety, in women who gave birth in our region.

Methods

A prospective survey was conducted at “Bega” Clinic Timisoara in 118 women being monitored during their antepartum period. Of these, 80 women attended to the second assessment between 6 to 8 weeks of their postpartum period. Postnatal depression was assessed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale using a cut-off > 13. Personality was assessed by using the NEO-FFI Inventory that is five-factor model based.

Results

The presence of antepartum depression was identified in 28 (23.7%) of pregnant women while postpartum depression was detected in 7 new mothers (8.8%). Among the NEO-FFI Inventory factors only Neuroticism had significant higher mean scores in both antepartum and postpartum depressive women (P = 0.003 and P = 0.016 respectively). There were also significant correlations between Neuroticism and antepartum and postpartum levels of both trait and state anxiety.

Conclusions

In the psychological management and approach of delivering women Neuroticism should be taken into account as a possible mediating factor for both depression and anxiety during their perinatal period.
Intrafamilial Homicide: A Descriptive Study of Fratricide in Quebec
Authors: Bourget D. , Gagné P. , Labelle A.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Fratricide comprises approximately 2% of all intra-familial homicides. Analyses of national data on fratricide show that adult males are considerably more likely to be offenders and victims or fratricide. A previous study suggested there were two main categories of fratricide: related to alcohol intoxication or associated with mental disorder.

Objectives

Present and discuss the results of an original study comprising 28 cases of fratricide.

Aims

To provide up-to-date scientific knowledge on fratricide.

Method

This is a retrospective study of 28 cases of fratricides, extracted from a sample of over 1000 consecutive cases of coroners’ files of victims of domestic homicide occurring between 1990–2015.

Results

Two victims out of three were males, most of adult age. There were only 2 female offenders in the whole sample. A majority of victims were Caucasians while 21% were aboriginals. Most victims were stabbed to death. The murders usually occurred at the residence of the victim. In total, 39% of offenders suffered from a major mental illness; 21% were acutely intoxicated at the time. In victims, 29% were under the influence of alcohol and 18% of offenders were free from mental problems.

Conclusion

Our data indicates that fratricides are most often impulsive and lack preparation. The most common method was the opportunistic use of a knife, suggestive of impulsive killing, and this is consistent with the rest of the information including the high rate of alcohol use and intoxication at the time. The study confirmed two main categories of fratricide: impulsive killing in the context of alcohol and dispute and killing associated with psychosis.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
A Systematic Review and Synthesis of Outcome Domains for use Within Forensic Services for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Alexander R. , Chester V. , Langdon P.
Published: June 2017

Aims

In response to the Winterbourne scandal, and the large number of people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) and offending behavior being treated in psychiatric hospitals, this study identified the domains that should be used to measure treatment outcomes of this group.

Methods

A systematic search of relevant databases was undertaken to identify domains. Sixty studies met the eligibility criteria, and findings were synthesized using content analysis. The findings were refined within a consultation and consensus exercises with carers, service users, and experts.

Results

The final framework encompassed three a priori super-ordinate domains (a) effectiveness, (b) patient safety, and (c) patient and carer experience. Within each of these, further sub-domains emerged from our systematic review and consultation exercises. These included severity of clinical symptoms, offending behaviors, reactive and restrictive interventions, quality of life and patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

To index recovery, services need to measure outcome using this framework.
Are Treatment Gains Maintained? Long-term Psychological Interventions for Bordeline Personality Disorder
Authors: Lieb K. , Storebø O.J. , Völlm B. , Mattivi J. , Nielsen S. , Kielsholm M. , Simonsen E. , Stoffers-Winterling J.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Many new approaches have been developed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD) by means of psychotherapy. Though there is a clear research trend towards short-interventions, the evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCT) on longer-term programmes still accumulates. On the one hand, well-established treatments like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or Mentalisation-Based Treatment (MBT) are now subject to real-world effectiveness studies; on the other hand, new dynamic approaches have been studied, lasting longer than 6 months.

Objectives

We are currently updating the cochrane Collaboration review on psychological interventions for BPD. First findings on the effects of longer-term psychotherapies will be presented.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) according to cochrane collaboration standards. Any randomized comparisons of psychological interventions versus unspecific control interventions, waitlist or specific psychotherapeutic interventions in adult BPD patients were eligible. Primary outcomes were BPD core pathology as depicted by DSM criteria. Secondary outcomes included associated pathology, i.e., depression and anxiety, general psychopathology severity and functioning as well as tolerability and safety. Two researchers selected trials, assessed quality and extracted data independently.

Results

The current evidence of longer-term psychological interventions in general, and the types of interventions for which RCT evidence is available will be evaluated and critically discussed.

Disclosure of interest

The authors declare that they have no competing interest.
Kbg Syndrome and the Establishment of its Neuropsychological Phenotype
Authors: Egger J. , Van Dongen L. , Stumpel C. , Wingbermuehle E. , Kleefstra T.
Published: June 2017

Objective

KBG syndrome is caused by a mutation in the ANKRD11 gene, characterized by short stature and specific dental, craniofacial and skeletal anomalies. Scarce literature on the phenotypical presentation mention delayed speech and motor development as well as mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. As to psychopathology, often, autism and ADHD are mentioned but not yet substantiated in terms of neurocognitive variables.

Aim

Aim of the current study was to investigate neurocognitive aspects of KBG syndrome.

Participants and Methods Seventeen patients (aged 6–66 years; ten females) with a proven ANKRD11 mutation were compared with two different groups of patients with a genetic disorder and similar developmental ages (n = 14 and n = 10). Neuropsychological assessment was performed focusing on the level of intellectual functioning and on attention, memory, executive functioning, and social cognition.

Results

In KBG patients, mild to moderate intellectual disabilities (WAIS IV Total IQ = 63.5 ± 10.7, range: 45–84) were established with a mental age that was lower than mean chronological age (6.4 ± 2.6 years versus 11 ± 5.7 years, respectively). When compared to both control groups, results indicated a relatively strong processing speed and social cognitive functioning of patients with KBG while direct recall of auditory memory was relatively poor most probably due to attentional dysfunction.

Conclusions

The cognitive profile of this group of 17 patients with KBG is characterized by mild intellectual disability and diminished sustained attention in verbal tasks. Implications for diagnostic procedures and clinical management of the syndrome are discussed, also with regard to the question how this relates to classificatory diagnosis of ADHD.
Meta-analysis Update of Association Between Dopamine Transporter SLC6A3 Gene Polymorphism, Smoking Cessation
Authors: Choi H.
Published: June 2017

The SLC6A3 gene is involved in the dopamine pathway, which influences smoking behavior. This study was conducted to present updated results of a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between SLC6A3 polymorphism and smoking cessation. In total, eight studies were assessed, and 9-repeat alleles and no 9-repeat alleles were compared by smoking cessation outcomes. No significant association between SLC6A3 genotype and smoking cessation was observed for the main analysis (odds ratio = 1.128; 95% confidence interval = 0.981–1.298). In conclusion, the genetic variations in SLC6A3 are not associated with smoking cessation, which is not consistent with the results of the previous meta-analysis.
Potential Values and Risks of Biomarker use in Differential Diagnosis of Neurocognitive Disorders
Authors: De Uribe-viloria N. , De Lera Alfonso M. , Rodriguez Fernandez L. , Zapico Aldea G. , Laserna Del Gallego C. , Alonso Sanchez A. , Alvarez Astorga A. , Red Gallego H. De La , De Lorenzo Calzon M. , Gomez Garcia M. , Medina Ojeda G. , Ladron De Cegama F. De Uribe
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Neurocognitive disorders are the only psychiatric disorders which underlying pathogeny can potentially be determined. This has important implications, for it makes possible the use of biomarkers in order to gain better diagnosis, and opens a door to more accurate treatments. Nonetheless, as biomarkers are not exclusive of a single disorder, the lengths of its utility are still unknown.

Objectives and aims

To understand the values and limitations of biomarkers in differential diagnosis of dementias.

Methods

We present three cases followed in the Neurology ward of our hospital, in which they were admitted for diagnosis and treatment of a subacute form of dementia. Medical history, core symptoms, screening tests for cognitive impairment, MRI, EEG and biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid were used for diagnosis.

Results

Two cases had consistent clinical features and complementary explorations, and they were respectively diagnosed as Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease and Lewy Body Dementia; however, the last case showed contradictory results between clinic and complementary explorations, particularly 14-3-3 protein, which was positive and led to the initial diagnosis as Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, which was proven wrong once necropsy was practiced.

Conclusions

Although complementary explorations, and biomarkers in particular, are of invaluable utility in the accurate diagnosis of multiple psychiatric diseases, they must always be considered within a context given by biography and clinical features, because, when failing to do so, they can lead to misdiagnosis and delay of correct treatment.
Influence of Personal Meaning Organization and 5-HTTLPR Genotype on Cortisol Stress Reactivity in Healthy Women
Authors: Marini A. , Turchi C. , Skrami E. , Gesuita R. , Giordani M. , Nardi B.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Reactivity to acute psychosocial stress in the framework of a physiological multidimensional pattern affects several individual-level systems that include genetic factors and features related to personality development. The 5-HTTLPR genotype has been implicated in the modulation of susceptibility to environmental stimuli.

Objectives

In the present study, 91 healthy young women were investigated (i) for their reactivity to a standardized psychosocial laboratory stressor (TSST), as measured by changes in salivary cortisol; (ii) in terms of 5-httlpr genotype and (iii) in terms of their personality profile according to the post-rationalist personal meaning organizations (PMOs), which are considered as adaptive modes of response to environmental stressors.

Methods

Participants were divided into three 5-HTTLPR genotype groups (s/s; s/l, and l/s). The quantitative and qualitative variables that may affect circulating cortisol were compared among the three groups. A multiple linear quantile regression analysis was then performed to evaluate the effect of the personality profile, as Outward/Inward PMO, and 5-HTTLPR genotype on the median level of cortisol, considered as dependent variable.

Results

Comparison of the variables that may affect circulating cortisol no significant differences. Salivary cortisol changed significantly in the course of the TSST. Reactivity to stress was affected by personality profile and the 5-HTTLPR genotype and also by body mass index and age.

Conclusions

The present data suggest that the psychosocial stress response is a multidimensional physiological event that is affected by a variety of factors as diverse as 5-HTTLPR genotype, personality profile, BMI, and age.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.