bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical assessment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia through the schizophrenia cognition rating scale: A validation study in the italian population
Authors: Vita A. , De Peri L. , Deste G. , Barlati S. , Cacciani P. , Poli R. , Agrimi E. , Sacchetti E.
Published: May 2011

Cognitive deficits are a core feature of schizophrenia and the need for a simple and reliable method for assessment of cognitive functions in schizophrenia is well recognized. The Schizophrenia Cognition Rating Scale (SCoRS) has proved to be a valid measure of neurocognitive performance and to correlate with the psychosocial functioning of schizophrenic patients. Aim of the present study was to investigate the correlations among global ratings of the Italian version of the SCoRS and measures of cognitive performance, symptoms severity and psychosocial functioning in schizophrenic subjects. We intended also to test the SCoRS sensitiviity to change over time, in relation also to changes of the above mentioned clinical, neurocognitive and outcome parameters. Forty-eight patients with schizophrenia (29 males, 19 female; mean age 39.1 years) were assessed at baseline and after three months of usual outpatient treatment according to the Italian community assertive treatment program, with the following instruments:

1)

SCoRS;

2)

comprehensive neuropsychological battery;

3)

the Positive And Negative Syndrome Scale and the Clinical Global Impression;

4)

the Global Assessment of Functioning, the Health of the Nation Outcome Scale, the Camberwell Assessment of Needs scale.

At baseline, SCoRS global ratings significantly correlated with the composite scores of cognitive performance, with positive, negative and total PANSS scores and with all measures of psychosocial functioning. Conversely, SCoRS global ratings did not change significantly over the 3-month follow up and the changes from baseline did not significantly correlate with the changes of neurocognitive, clinical and functional assessments over the same time period.
The quality of life of patients suffering from schizophrenia - a comparison with healthy controls
Authors: Vrbova K. , Prasko J. , Jelenova D. , Kovacsova A. , Latalova K. , Sigmundova Z.
Published: May 2011

Background

In the past, the first goal of schizophrenia treatment was to reduce psychotic symptoms, mainly positive symptoms. Recently, as a result of an emphasis on patient needs, the concept of quality of life (QoL) has been brought into the treatment. The goal has therefore changed from the alleviation of symptoms to improvement of the patient's satisfaction with social activities. Self-evaluations by people with schizophrenia were previously thought to lack reliability because of the presence of psychopathological symptoms and poor awareness of the disease. Recently the importance of evaluating the satisfaction of patients themselves, however, has been recognized in schizophrenia. Studies on this field showed us, that QoL data from patients with chronic mental illness were reliable and concluded that subjective QoL evaluation was applicable to such patients.

Aims

The purpose of the present study was to compare the QoL in patients suffering from schizophrenia in clinical remission with healthy controls and examine the extent of the effects of subjective cognitive functioning on QoL in these patients.

Methods

Data were obtained using the quality of life questionnaire (Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction - Q-LES-Q), and subjective questionnaire for cognitive dysfunction (Cognitive Failures Questionnaire - CFQ) for 40 schizophrenia patients in clinical remission and 40 healthy controls.

Results

Cognitive function correlates negatively with subjective QoL in patients with schizophrenia.
Hope and symptoms in psychosis
Authors: Walder N. , Grant Hay A. , Sibitz I. , Amering M. , Mesic E. , Schrank B.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Hope is considered as an important factor in recovery from severe mental illness. So far it has been studied in patients with depression, anxiety disorders and post traumatic stress disorder, whereas empirical studies involving people with psychosis are scarce and their results are inconclusive.

Aim

We aimed at evaluating the relationship between

(i) hope and positive as well as negative psychotic symptoms and

(ii) hope and depression in people with psychosis.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study 148 patients with schizophrenia and schizo-affective disorder were interviewed by a psychologist who rated the positive and negative symptoms on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Hope and depression were measured using the self-assessment scales Integrative Hope Scale (IHS) and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D).

Results

No statistically significant correlation was found between hope and positive symptoms (r = .071, p = .414). Hope and negative symptoms, however, showed a statistically significant negative correlation (r = -.196, p = .023), as did hope and depression (r = -.255, p = .003). This latter relationship remained significant after controlling for negative symptoms in a partial correlation (r = -.216, p = .013).

Conclusion

While hope appears unrelated to positive symptoms, a significant correlation with negative symptoms and depression was found. These results emphasise the potential importance of hope as a target variable to support recovery in patients with psychosis. However, prospective studies are needed to clarify the causal relationships between hope and symptoms of psychotic disorders.
Neural correlates of disturbed motor behavior in schizophrenia
Authors: Walther S. , Federspiel A. , Bracht T. , Horn H. , Razavi N. , Strik W. , Müller T.J.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Motor behavior is altered in schizophrenia. Most patients have less physical activity than the general population. We have shown that actigraphic means of motor activity are influenced by negative syndrome scores, schizophrenia subtype and antipsychotic use.

Objectives

The neural correlates of reduced motor activity in schizophrenia are widely unknown.

Aims

To elucidate possible mechanisms, we correlated objective motor activity with measures of grey and white matter structure, as well as resting state perfusion.

Methods

We report the results of four studies from our lab. Schizophrenia patients and controls were scanned using a 3 T MRI scanner assessing resting perfusion (arterial spin labeling), structure and diffusion tensor imaging. In all participants, continuous actigraphy was performed for 24 hours in order to measure motor activity.

Results

Resting perfusion in schizophrenia correlated with activity in bilateral prefrontal areas in patients, while in controls correlations were exclusively in the ventral anterior nucleus of the thalamus. In both groups, white matter integritiy in various frontal regions and the corticospinal tract correlated with motor activity. The group difference, however, was the inverse correlation of integrity and activity underneath the right supplemental motor area in patients. Grey matter volume did not correlate with activity in controls, but it did correlate in the posterior cingulate in patients.

Conclusions

Interindividual differences in brain structure and perfusion are associated with varying motor activity. Multiple imaging approaches point to altered cortical motor control in schizophrenia.
Study on the executive function and learning ability in first-episode schizophrenia patients
Authors: Wang H. , Liu X. , Fang Y.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Cognitive dysfunction was thought to be one of the core features of schizophrenia. And the executive function of the patients was paid more attention by more and more researchers and clinicians.

Objectives

To investigate the executive function and the learning ability of the patients with first-episode schizophrenia, and their relationships with psychiatric symptoms.

Methods

Fifty cases of first-episode schizophrenia patients and fifty age- and gender-matched healthy controls were tested by a computerized version of Tower of London (TOL) test. The scores of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale(PANSS) in the group of schizophrenia patients were over 60.

Results

The numbers of the correct answer [x1 :(14.62 ± 4.12), x2: (14.80 ± 4.70)] during the first session and the second session of the TOL test of the patients group were significantly lower than that of the control group [x1: (17.48 ± 3.79), x2:(18.68 ± 3.19)], and the reaction times [t1: (9.27 ± 4.37) seconds, t2: (9.51 ± 5.58) seconds] of the two sessions of TOL were longer than the control group [t1: (7.28 ± 2.04) seconds, t2: (6.67 ± 1.51) seconds], P < 0.01. For the control group, x2 was significantly greater than x1, and t2 shorter than t1 (P < 0.01), while for the patients group, there was no difference between the performances of the first session and the second session. The scores of TOL in the schizophrenia patients were correlated with the negative symptom score of PANSS (P < 0.05) and were not correlated with the scores of other subscales of PANSS (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The executive function and the learning ability of schizophrenia are impaired and the cognitive dysfunction is correlated with negative symptoms.
Composition in schizophrenic artistic expression
Authors: Welcz H.
Published: May 2011

The issue of composition in the artistic creativity of people suffering from schizophrenia has not been widely taken up by the researchers dealing with schizophrenic artistic expression. Those who wrote about the problems of composition mostly referred to familiar authors with schizophrenic disorders in the context of the course of their disease. The article aims to approach the issue of expression's psychopathology specifically dealing with the analysis of one element of the artistic work. Schizophrenic disorders provoke troubles with process of the arrangement, selection and information integration characteristic to specific thinking disorders of the delusional type. It is particularly visible in the composition of drawings and paintings.

Most often one can encounter compositional presentations that have an open configuration based on symmetry which is predominantly figurative in nature, with ornamentation and decorative background. In the literature available in the Clinic of Psychiatry at the Medical Academy and Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Lublin there also prevail open figurative compositions based on symmetry with richer or poorer ornamentation. The issue of the composition's specificity in schizophrenic artistic expression is hard to judge objectively as most of the available works are shallow, schematic, open and without any depth or chiaroscuro. Difficulties in analyzing the compositional rules that are prevalent among people with those disorders are connected with the lack of objective methods, which could be helpful in working on that artistic material.
Serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and cognitive performance in subjects with schizophrenia
Authors: Wysokinski A. , Kloszewska I.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

BDNF and NT-3 may participate in neurodevelopment abnormalities. It is not clear if BDNF/NT-3 levels differ between schizophrenic and healthy individuals. Cognitive dysfunctions form the core of schizophrenia and may result from neurodevelopmental abnormalities.

Objectives

Assessment of BDNF and NT-3 serum levels and cognitive performance in schizophrenia.

Methods

Study groups: 33 schizophrenic in-patients and 27 healthy subjects. Clinical symptoms: PANSS, HDRS, CDSS. Cognitive performance: Verbal Fluency Test (VFT), Color Word Interference Test (CWIT), Trail Making Test (TMT), Digit Symbol Substitution (DSYM), Luria Memory Words (LMW). BDNF and NT-3 levels were assessed using ELISA method.

Results

PANSS, CDSS, HDRS scores (mean ± SD): 49.2 ± 16.2, 4.3 ± 4.4, 10.1 ± 7.6. Table 1 shows BDNF and NT-3 levels. Table 2 shows cognitive performance. Inter-variables correlations were found: BDNF-CDSS (r = −0.40, p = 0.03) BDNF-HDRS (r = −0.51, p = 0.003), NT-3-CWIT1 (r = 0.32, p = 0.01), NT-3-TMTA (r = 0.36, p < 0.01), NT-3-LMW30 (r = −0.33, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

There were no differences in BDNF or NT-3 levels between groups. Schizophrenic patients had lower cognitive performance. An association between BDNF and depressive symptoms was confirmed.
Experienced stress, self-efficacy, self-esteem and strategies of coping with stress and their association with clinical symptoms in schizophrenia
Authors: Wysokinski A. , Kloszewska I.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Stress affects the development/course of schizophrenia. Inefficient coping may influence functioning.

Objective

Assessment of experienced stress, self-efficacy, self-esteem and coping strategies in schizophrenia.

Methods

Study group: 33 schizophrenic in-patients and 27 healthy subjects. Scales: clinical symptoms - PANSS, HDRS; stress-related - experienced stress (SES), self-efficacy (GSES), self-esteem (RSES), coping strategies (COPE).

Results

PANSS, HDRS scores (mean ± SD): 49.2 ± 16.2, 10.1 ± 7.6. Table 1 shows SES, GSES, RSES scores, Table 2 - coping strategies (only significant differences). Inter-variable correlations were found: SES-PANSS (r = 0.56, p < 0.001), SES-HDRS (r = 0.69, p = 0.01), RSES-HDRS (r = -0.39, p = 0.02), COPE14-PANSS (r = 0.38, p = 0.03), COPE14-PANSS-P (r = 0.45, p = 0.008).

[Stress, self-efficacy, self-esteem (mean score ± SD)]

[Coping strategies (mean score ± SD)]

Conclusions

Higher experienced stress, lower self-efficacy and self-esteem were found in schizophrenic patients. Stress and coping strategies may affect/result from clinical symptoms. “Passive/avoiding” coping strategies were more frequent in schizophrenic patients.
Motor neurological soft signs are strongly correlated with verbal fluency among patients with schizophrenia attending UKMMC psychiatric clinic
Authors: Zakaria H. , Abdul Rahman A.H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Neurological soft signs (NSS) are subtle indicator of brain dysfunction, which are present in excess among patients with schizophrenia. Its clinical significance remains unclear despite extensive researches.

Objective

To determine the proportion of schizophrenia patients who have motor NSS and then to compare the performance in verbal fluency between these two groups; with and without motor NSS.

Method

This cross-sectional study utilized the Brief Motor Scale (BMS) to investigate the presence of motor NSS in 80 schizophrenia patients attended Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC) psychiatric clinic. The diagnosis was confirmed by Mini International Neuropsychiatic Interview (MINI). Symptomatology and abnormal motor movement were assessed using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) respectively. A brief battery of cognitive tests covering aspects of attention, working memory and executive function was administered. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were applied to look for any relationship between study factors.

Results

Majority of schizophrenia patients (68.8%) in this study have motor NSS. The motor NSS were correlated with verbal fluency, digit span forward, digit span backward, and trail making B but not with trail making A (p < 0.05). However, verbal fluency was the only factor that remained significantly correlated with motor NSS after multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

The assessment of motor NSS represents a brief, inexpensive and meaningful tool in psychiatry. Together with verbal fluency, it has the potential as an illness marker and a link between neurobiological research and clinical practice.
Duration of untreated psychosis and its correlates in first episode psychosis: results of the prospective 5-year follow-up study
Authors: Zaytseva Y. , Gurovich I. , Dorodnova A. , Movina L. , Shmukler A.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) is a potentially changeable prognostic factor which can also indicate neurodegenerative process in schizophrenia.

Objective

To examine the association of DUP with various characteristics of the course of schizophrenia in first episode patients during 5-year follow-up.

Methods

One-hundred-fourteen patients with first psychotic episodes who have been treated in naturalistic setting within Early Intervention Centre (Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry) were included. Clinical, social and neuropsychological parameters were assessed using standardized instruments.

Results

The mean duration of untreated psychotic symptoms before admission was 298.66 ± 447.35 days. According to the analysis DUP was found to be significantly associated with the mode of onset (r = 0.51, p ≤ 0.001) level of remission (r = 0.21–0.30, p ≤ 0.05), severity of positive symptoms and negative symptoms in remission mostly at 2nd, 3d and 4th years of observation, poorer level of social adjustment at the 5th year (r = 0.19, p ≤ 0.05). The effect of DUP remained significant after controlling for age, gender and diagnostic variables.

Moreover, DUP correlated with the parameters of verbal memory, visual memory and spatial functions during the follow-up (r = 0.29–0.36, p ≤ 0.05, r = 0.28–0.30, p ≤ 0.05, respectively). No correlations have been found between DUP and the age of onset, number of relapses and their duration during 5-year follow-up as well as with other neurocognitive parameters (executive functioning, gnosis, praxis, attention).

Conclusions

The results of the study underline the prognostic value of DUP for predicting clinical and functional outcomes. Association between DUP and poor memory domains supports the notion of neurotoxicity of DUP grasping specific brain regions in schizophrenia.
Association study of tryptophan hydroxylase-2 gene in schizophrenia and its clinical features in chinese han population
Authors: Zhang C. , Li Z.Z. , Shao Y. , Fang Y.R.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental illness which is characterized by the development of various detrimental clinical features, and its etiology still remains unknown. Based on the evidence from neurobiological and pharmacological research, dysfunctions in central serotonergic transmission may be involved in the development of schizophrenia. Tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2), a newly identified isoform of tryptophan hydroxylase (the rate limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of serotonin), regulates the brain-specific serotonin synthesis.

Objectives

To further clarify the role of TPH2 in the development of schizophrenia.

Aim

We performed a case-control study to examine the association of the TPH2 gene with schizophrenia and its clinical features.

Methods

We genotyped three putative functional polymorphisms (rs4570625, rs7305115 and rs4290270) within the gene and carried out a case-control study consisting of 304 schizophrenia patients and 362 healthy subjects. The severity of psychotic symptoms was assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS).

Results

The frequencies of genotypes and alleles of rs4570625, rs7305115 and rs4290270 did not differ significantly between schizophrenic patients and controls. However, the PANSS positive symptom subcore was significantly associated with rs4570625 (P = 0.022).

Conclusion

These results suggest that rs4570625 of TPH2 may play an important role in the development of positive symptoms in Han Chinese schizophrenic patients.
An epidemiological study of concomitant use of herbal medicine and antipsychotics in schizophrenic patients: implication for herb-drug interaction
Authors: Zhang Z.-J.
Published: May 2011

Herb-drug interactions are an important issue in drug safety and clinical practice. The aim of this epidemiological study was to characterize associations of clinical outcomes with concomitant herbal and antipsychotic use in patients with schizophrenia. A total of 1795 patients with schizophrenia who were randomly selected from 17 psychiatric hospitals in China were interviewed face-to-face using a structured questionnaire. Association analyses were conducted to examine correlates between Chinese medicine (CM) use and demographic, clinical variables, antipsychotic medication mode, and clinical outcomes. The prevalence of concomitant CM and antipsychotic treatment was 36.4% [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 34.2%–38.6%]. Patients using concomitant CM had a significantly greater chance of improved outcomes than non-CM use (61.1% vs. 34.3%, OR = 3.44, 95% CI 2.80–4.24). However, a small but significant number of patients treated concomitantly with CM had a greater risk of developing worse outcomes (7.2% vs. 4.4%, OR = 2.06, 95% CI 2.06–4.83). Significant predictors for concomitant CM treatment-associated outcomes were residence in urban areas, paranoid psychosis, and exceeding 3 months of CM use. Herbal medicine regimens containing Radix Bupleuri, Fructus Gardenia, Fructus Schisandrae, Radix Rehmanniae, Akebia Caulis, and Semen Plantaginis in concomitant use with quetiapine, clozapine, and olanzepine were associated with nearly 60% of the risk of adverse outcomes. Our study suggests that concomitant herbal and antipsychotic treatment could produce either beneficial or adverse clinical effects in schizophrenic population. Potential herb-drug pharmacokinetic interactions need to be further evaluated.
Neurocognitive effects of atypical and conventional antipsychotic drugs in early-stage schizophrenia: a naturalistic 12-month follow-up study
Authors: Guo X. , Wang B. , Wang C. , Hu B. , Sun X. , Lv L. , Lu Z. , Ma C. , Guo T. , Xie S. , Liu Z. , Zhao J.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

The relative effect of the atypical antipsychotic drugs and conventional agents on neurocognition in patients with early-stage schizophrenia has not been comprehensively determined.

Aims

The present study aimed to assess the cognitive effects of atypical and conventional antipsychotic drugs on neurocognition under naturalistic treatment conditions.

Objectives

In a 12 months open-label, multicenter study, 698 patients with early-stage schizophrenia (< 5 years) were monotherapy with chlorpromazine, sulpiride, clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine or aripiprazole. Wechsler Memory Scale--Revised Visual Reproduction Test, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale Revised Digit Symbol Test and Digit-span Task Test, Trail Making Tests Part A and Part B, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test were administered at baseline and 12 months follow-up evaluation. The primary outcome was change in a cognitive composite score after 12 months of treatment.

Results

Compared with scores at baseline, the composite cognitive test scores and individual test scores had significant improvement for all seven treatment groups at 12-month follow-up evaluation (all p-values ≤ 0.013). However, olanzapine and quetiapine provided greater improvement than that provided by chlorpromazine and sulpiride in the composite score, processing speed and executive function (all p-values ≤ 0.045).

Conclusions

Both conventional and atypical antipsychotic medication long-term maintenance treatment can benefit congitive function in patients with early-stage schizophrenia, but olanzapine and quetiapine may be superior to chlorpromazine and sulpiride in improving some areas of neurocognitive function.
P03-368 Use of antipsychotics in patients with schizophrenia and cognitive impairment: A naturalistic survey across four European countries
Authors: Zink M.
Published: May 2011

Aim

Cognitive deficits impair social and vocational rehabilitation in schizophrenic patients but little is known to which extend these symptoms are perceived by psychiatrists and how they influence antipsychotic treatment. Therefore, an online survey was performed in four European countries (Germany, Greece, Italy and Spain).

Methods

The survey involving 744 psychiatrists and assessed demographic characteristics including vocational status, presenting symptomatology, cognitive dysfunction severity, and current antipsychotic treatement. Methodology is described in full detail by Gorwood (2010).

Results

Out of 3,996 patients, 29% were clinically assessed as having mild, 54% moderate and 17% severe cognitive dysfunction. In the mild dysfunction group, mean time since diagnosis was 9.7 years, 12.0 years in the moderate dysfunction group, and 17.0 years in the severe dysfunction group, and majority were outpatients (74.7%, 57.9% and 56.7%, respectively). The respective mean number of previous episodes was 5.1, 6.2 and 7.2 (6.0 for the total sample). Full or part time employment was reported in 32,2%, 19.1% and 11.8% of the patients, respectively. Olanzapine was the most frequently used antipsychotic in the mild group (21.0%) and severe group (24.9%), and risperidone in the moderate group (23.0%). Ziprasidone was used in 10.2%, 0.8% and 7.1% of subjects.

Conclusion

Cognitive dysfunction is frequently perceived by psychiatrist in every day clinical practice and severely interferes with the vocational status. Major associations between specific antipsychotics and the levels of cognitive impairment were not observed. Irrespective of the level of cognitive dysfunction, > 50% of subjects were outpatients.
Association between psychiatric symptoms and erectile dysfunction
Authors: Bandini E. , Ricca V. , Fisher A.D. , Corona G. , Boddi V. , Maggi M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often associated with a wide array of psychiatric symptoms, although few studies systematically address their specific association with ED determinants.

Objectives and aims

To explore the relationship between ED (as assessed by SIEDY Structured Interview) and different psychopathological symptoms (as assessed by the Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire).

Methods

A consecutive series of 1,388 male patients with ED was studied.

Results

Psychiatric symptoms resulted differentially associated with SIEDY domains. Depressive and phobic anxiety symptoms were associated with the relational domain, somatization with the organic one, while free-floating anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, and phobic symptoms were significantly related with higher intrapsychic SIEDYscores. In addition, relevant depressive symptomatology was associated with hypogonadism, the presence of low frequency of intercourse, hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), and conflictual relationships within the couple and the family. Patients with high free-floating anxiety symptoms were younger, and complained of an unsatisfactory work and a conflictual relationship within family. Conversely, subjects with higher phobic anxious symptoms displayed a more robust relational functioning. Similar results were observed in subjects with obsessive-compulsive symptoms, who also reported a lower prevalence of HSD. Finally, subjects with somatization symptoms showed the worst erectile function.

Conclusions

The main value of this study is that it alters various clinicians’ belief that many psychiatric symptoms can be found among ED patients. Systematic testing of patients with ED, through psychiatric questionnaires, is recommended to detect even slight or moderate psychopathological distresses, which specifically associate and exacerbate sexual disturbances.
Hysterical traits are not from the uterus but from the testis: A study in men with sexual dysfunction
Authors: Bandini E. , Ricca V. , Fisher A.D. , Corona G. , Maggi M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

The relationship between testosterone (T) and psychopathology in subjects with sexual dysfunction has not been completely clarified.

Objectives and aims

To evaluate the association between T levels and different psychopathological symptoms and traits in men seeking treatment for sexual dysfunction.

Methods

A consecutive series of 2,042 heterosexual male patients consulting an outpatient clinic for sexual dysfunction was retrospectively studied. Several hormonal, biochemical, and instrumental parameters were investigated, including testis volume and penile blood flow. Patients were interviewed, prior to the beginning of any treatment, with the previously validated Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction (SIEDY), and ANDROTEST (a structured interview for the screening of hypogonadism in patients with sexual dysfunction). They also completed the Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire (MHQ) a brief self-reported questionnaire for the screening of the symptoms of mental disorders in non psychiatric setting.

Results

T levels showed a negative correlation with depressive and anxiety symptoms. Conversely, histrionic/hysterical traits were strongly and positively associated with elevated T. Men with histrionic/hysterical traits had higher androgenization, as suggested by higher total and free T, higher testis volume and a lower ANDROTEST score. They were also characterized by better self-reported sexual functioning and penile blood flow.

Conclusions

In men consulting for sexual dysfunction, histrionic/hysterical traits are associated with higher androgenization and better sexual functioning. Hysteria, previously considered as a typically feminine psychopathological trait, should now be considered as an index of better masculine sexual well-being.
Autoeroticism, mental health, and organic disturbances in patients with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Bandini E. , Ricca V. , Corona G. , Fisher A.D. , Boddi V. , Lotti F. , Faravelli C. , Maggi M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Masturbation is a common, but often neglected, male sexual behavior. Objectives and aims: To investigate the psychobiological correlates of self-reported masturbation in the last 3 months.

Methods

A consecutive series of 2,786 heterosexual male patients consulting an outpatient clinic for erectile dysfunction (ED) was studied. Several hormonal, biochemical and instrumental parameters were investigated. Patients were interviewed, prior to the beginning of any treatment, with Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction (SIEDY) and ANDROTEST structured interviews. They also completed the Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire.

Results

Among the patients studied, 1,781 (61.9%) reported they had masturbated at least once per month in the preceding 3 months. The frequency of masturbation was inversely related to age (r = -0.329; P < 0.0001) and directly associated with education level (adj r = 0.052, P < 0.05 after adjustment for age). A feeling of guilt during masturbation was reported by 274 (15.4%) patients. After adjusting for age, masturbation was positively associated with testosterone levels, stressful conditions, and both unstable and long-lasting couple relationship. Urogenital problems also increased the chance of masturbation. Reported guiltiness during autoeroticism was associated with psychological disturbances, low prolactin, low testosterone, and increased relational problems.

Conclusions

This study indicates that masturbation is a relatively frequent behavior in male subjects with ED. Inquiring about this sexual behavior is an important issue for understanding overall patients’ sexual attitudes and behavior.
Sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia vs bipolar disorder
Authors: Díaz-Mesa E.M. , García-Portilla M.P. , Al-Halabí S. , Sáiz P.A. , Bobes J.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Healthy sexual functioning is an important part of the human experience, but there is a lack of studies regarding sexuality and sexual behavior in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (García-Portilla, 2010).

Aim

To determine the differences on the sexual dysfunction profile between patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Method

Naturalistic, cross-sectional, multicentre, validation study. A total of 89 patients with schizophrenia (SQF) and 82 with bipolar disorder (BPD) were evaluated using the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire Short-Form (CSFQ-14).

Results

Sample description (SQF vs BPD): Mean age (SD) were 39.2 (11.0) vs 46.7 (10.9) (p < 0.001), men were 58.8% vs 41.2% (χ2 = 4.0, df. = 1, p < 0.05), 61.8% vs 38.2% were single (χ2 = 12.8, df. = 1, p < 0.001). Mean (SD) scores on CSFQ-14 scales were (SQF vs BPD): Pleasure 2.2 (1.0) vs 2.6 (1.0) (t = -2.2, p < 0.05), Sexual desire/frequency 5.3 (2.0) vs 5.9 (2.0) (t = -2.0, p < 0.05), Sexual desire/interest 5.7 (2.6) vs 6.9 (3.0) (t = -2.5, p < 0.05), Arousal/excitement 8.6 (3.1) vs 8.9 (3.4), Orgasm/completion 7.9 (3.2) vs 8.8 (3.2), Desire 11.1 (3.9) vs 12.9 (4.4) (t = -2.7, p < 0.05), Arousal 8.6 (3.1) vs 8.9 (3.4), Orgasm 7.9 (3.2) vs 8.8 (3.2) and Total 39.5 (9.7) vs 42.2 (11.0).

Conclusions

Patients with schizophrenia have more difficulty to get pleasure and more problems in the phase of desire (frequency and interest) than the patients with bipolar disorder.
Erectile dysfunction and antipsychotics
Authors: Fifani F. , Otheman Y. , Outarahout M. , Ouanass A.
Published: May 2011

Sexual side effects associated with antipsychotic medications constitute an understudied set of side effects that diminish a patient's quality of life, and lead to noncompliance with treatment. Male patients frequently report disturbances in erectile and ejaculatory functioning, as well as changes in libido. The capacity to trigger sexual dysfunction differs from one antipsychotic to another. Clinicians prescribing antipsychotic medications should be familiar with the classification, evaluation and treatment of these side effects. The purpose of this study is to assess the occurrence of erectile dysfunction for 5 classes of antipsychotics (Haloperidol, Risperidone, Olanzapine, Amisulpride and Fluphenazine decanoate) in a population of 120 patients, using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF 5).
The neurobiology of sexual orientation
Authors: Goldstein J.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Homosexuality is a constantly debated issue as to whether it is determined at birth or a choice (nature vs. nurture). The works of the Kinsey Reports and Dr. Evelyn Hooker published in the 1950s resulted in the removal of homosexuality from the DSM4 in 1973. Since then, it has been mentioned as an illness only in the context of being a putative exacerbating factor in anxiety states. Recent studies reveal a clear cut neurobiology to sexual orientation.

Methods

Neurobiologist Simon LeVay conducted a study of brain tissue samples from 41 human autopsies performed at several hospitals in New York and California. He found a significant size difference of the interstitial nuclei of the anterior hypothalamus between homosexual and heterosexual men.

Results

In addition, Dr. Ivanka Savic-Berglund and Dr. Per Lindström of the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, performed fMRI and PET measurements of cerebral blood flow. Using volumetric studies, they found significant cerebral size differences between homosexual and heterosexual subjects; the brains of homosexual men resembled heterosexual women and homosexual women resembled heterosexual men. Pheromonal studies also have added to the scientific knowledge of sexuality. Sex-atypical connections were found among homosexual participants. Amygdala connectivity differences were found to be statistically significant and provided evidence towards sexual dimorphism between heterosexual and homosexual subjects. Extensive controls were performed during testing to exclude analytical variability.

Conclusions

A totally evidence-based medicine presentation will provide current data regarding homosexuality showing differences, or similarities, between the brains of homosexuals and heterosexuals.
Sexual behaviour in depressive patients
Authors: Kesicky D. , Novotny V. , Kesicka M.
Published: May 2011

Depression influences particular phases of sexual responsive cycle as well as the forms of sexual behavior, particular aspects of sexual life and its characteristics in comparison to deepen depression. According to gender differences it is possible to assume gender differences of depression impact on particular aspects of sexuality. The depressive syndrome has its own structure thus we suppose the difference in influence of particular symptoms entering to the global state of depression.

The goal of the research is to find out the influence of deepen depression in the whole scale of depressive syndrome on particular aspects of sexual life in men and women.

The influence of particular depressive symptoms was surveyed with 98 hospitalized patients with depression diagnosis. HAMD subscales were compared to the changes in desire, the ability to arouse and the coital readiness and ASEX questionnaire was used to measure the global changes of sexual function. Gender differences were studied as well.

By statistical analysis the significant influence of anxiety, circadian changes, factor of retardation, sleep quality and body weight changes on the state of sexual function was found out in men. Different influence of particular depression symptoms on phases of sexual responsive cycle was confirmed. Significant influence of anxiety and factor of retardation in HAMD on the state of sexual functions was showed in women. The research confirmed the gender differences.

The research confirmed the need of detailed research of influence of particular depressive symptoms on the global sexual state of depressive patients concerning gender differences.
Role of orgasmic conditioning and reconditioning in psychiatry
Authors: Khan M.H. , Mukhtar M.Z. , Bajwa M. , Alwi M. , Gul M. , Niaz S.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Orgasm is the most powerful reinforcer of behavior. Feelings can be spiritual in miniorgasm and sensational in complete orgasm. Orgasmic conditioning act as underlying mechanism of development of paraphilias and sex addiction.

Method

An electronic search was made on various database websites including, pubmed, science direct,and etc using key words orgasm, conditioning, paraphilias. It was followed by study of literature in journals and books.

Results

Professional websites produced only couple of studies on orgasmic conditioning. This indicates this topic is not well taken by researchers.

Discussion

Orgasmic center in brain is located in para ventricular nucleus of anterior hypothalamus and medial preoptic area. Intraorgasmic EEG exhibits visible changes. Orgasm produces euphoria and alleviate anxiety, pain, muscular tension and stress. Orgasm is mediated by dopamine which also act on nucleus accumben. During that process serotonin, endorphin and oxytocin are released. Oxytocin secretion start with arousal and during orgasm reaches its climax. It induces cuddling behavior which serve as basis o f physical and emotional intimacy. Orgasmic conditioning can bring about pairing of neutral stimuli with erotic sensation. Both male and female are capable of achieving multiple orgasms after some training. Prolongation of arousal and multiorgasmic capacity can pronounce its effects. For treatment of paraphilias like fetishism and pedophilias orgasmic condition is utilized. Positive association with healthy objects and activities can be used for treatment of various addictions.

Conclusion

With advanced biological understandings, orgasmic conditioning can be used in novel ways.
Sexual functioning and pain disorders in depressive women
Authors: Skrzypulec A. , Szuscik A. , Krysta K. , Krupka-Matuszczyk I.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

As the incidence of depression, both in Poland and the world, has increased in recent years, it seems important to consider it in a wider context, including its comorbidities.

Aims

The aim of the study was to assess anxiety, sexual functioning and pain disorders in women with depression.

Methods

The study encompassed 41 women, aged 18 - 65 years old, of whom 21 were assigned into the study group and 20 into the control group. The research was based on a two-part questionnaire. The first, general part involved socio-demographic data, basic patient history and sexuality-related questions. The other part was based on standardized tests, such as Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), McGill Pain Questionnaire - short form (SF-MPQ), Beliefs About Pain Control Questionnaire (BPCQ) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Results

The two groups were homogenous with regard to mean age, age at menarche and the BMI. The study group had significantly lower FSFI results than the control group, which implies greater severity of sexual disorders. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between depressive disorders (BDI) and pain disorders (McGill scale) was observed in the study group.

Conclusions

Taking into consideration the multitude and severity of sexual functioning disorders and pain disorders in women with depression, careful diagnosis should be attempted in all cases. The participation of a sexologist and doctors of other specialties in both diagnosis and therapy should be considered.
Erectile dysfunction in psychiatric patients
Authors: Ladea M. , Bran M. , Barbu C.M. , Sarpe M.C.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.

Objectives

ED is a common condition in psychiatric patients, which can modify their quality of life.

Aims

The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and the severity of ED in psychiatric patients.

Methods

This naturalistic, observational study was conducted during a six months period. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 15-item questionnaire was used to assess 144 male inpatients with different psychiatric disorders. IIEF is a brief, cross-culturally valid, self-administered scale for detecting treatment-related changes in patients with erectile dysfunction and addresses the relevant domains of male sexual function: erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. The patients were analyzed by age, psychiatric diagnosis, medication, IIEF scores at admission.

Results

Then mean age was 36.4 years. The lot included 44 patients with Psychotic Disorders, 68 with Mood Disorders, 21 with Alcohol Dependence, 11 with Personality Disorders. Severe ED was registered in 38% of investigated patients, which determined abandon of sexual attempts in 57% of cases; 12% had moderate ED, 15% had mild to moderate ED, 18% had mild ED and 17% had normal sexual function. No orgasm was reported in 32% of patients and 37% had no sexual desire. Under treatment with antipsychotic medication 78% had severe or moderate ED.

Conclusions

Severe ED was correlated with age, also being seen in young patients. ED was correlated with depression, schizophrenia and antipsychotic medication.
Depression impact on the sexual desire
Authors: Lourenço M. , Azevedo L.P. , Gouveia J.L.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Depression as a pathology and the side effects of pharmacology therapy have been pointed proven to be as responsible for the lack of sexual desire. Among the drugs used in the treatment of depression, anti-depressives are the ones mostly connected to sexual dysfunction.

Aims /objectives

To study the relationship between depression and its impact on the sexual desire in psychiatric patients.

Methods

The chosen sample is composed of 89 subjects, 73 females and 16 males, with ages ranging from 21 to 70 years, who present with depressive symptomatology (mild to moderate symptomatology (MMS) and severe symptomatology (SS).To each patient 3 instruments were applied:

1)

Questionnaire used to collect demographic and clinical data from the sample;

2)

Instrument of estimation of the depression degree (BDI - Beck Depression Inventory);

3)

Instrument of valuation of the sexual desire (SDS - Sexual Desire Scale).

Results

Depression average value obtained with BDI was 25.58 (SD = 11.86). The majority was satisfied with their marital relationship (72.7% and 52.9%, respectively), and the group with most sexual damaged (actual sexual performance regarding sexual desire) being the one with severe depression (54.5% versus 82.4%, respectively). Regarding total SDS value, the group with MMD present with higher levels of sexual desire (M = 54.93; DP = 14.56) than the group with SD (M = 41.82; DP = 11.86).

Conclusions

This study presents an exploratory character and the obtained results revealed that depressive symptomatology severity is directly related with sexual desire, by saying the higher the depression's severity is the lower sexual desire will be.
Reciprocal interaction between sexuality and personality: parallel assessment of patients with QSAF- 2009 and MCMI-III
Authors: Pirkalani K.K. , Talaee Rad Z.
Published: May 2011

Objective

To evaluate mutual interaction between sexuality and personality we tried to study 111 patients with QSAF 2009 and MCMI-III.

Methods

Hundred and eleven consecutive patients with sexual problems (76) or personality disorders (35) were examined with two tests. Only volunteer personality disorder patients were enrolled to this trial. The results were compared with 325 examinees evaluated with QSAF and 1600 patients evaluated with MCMI-III.

Results

All patients with sexual problems showed at least two scores higher than 72 in their MCMI-III. This was more prominent in sexual deviations than dysfunctions. Homosexuals had higher scores in schizoid and schizotypal, pedophiles in schizoid and antisocial, voyeurs in schizoid and avoidant, masochists in dependent and self defeating personality scales …. Sexually deviated persons remain clinically latent and show themselves as alien, aloof and eccentric. Almost all deviated persons show high scores in personality disorder scales. On the contrary, only a minority of personality disorder patients show prominent sexual problems in the form of deviation. They predominantly have disturbed sexual self image, show inhibited sexual desire problems (dependent, schizoid and avoidant) personality, dyspareunia and vaginism (avoidant and schizotypal personality), spouse abuse (borderline and antisocial personality) postcoital disorders (borderline, dependent and narcissistic personality) and extramarital relationship in a series of disorders including histrionic personality …. as studied by the QSAF 2009 which evaluates 64 sexual scales.

Conclusion

Evaluation of personality disordered patients in regard to sexuality and vice versa is essential for better understanding the pathogenesis of each disease and helps in smoother treatments.
Questionnaire on sexual attitude and function 2009: a novel clinical and epidemiological computer based tool
Authors: Pirkalani K.K. , Talaee Rad Z.
Published: May 2011

Objective

To study sexual problems of our patients and standardizing it for patients with or without religious and cultural restrains we developed a questionnaire with 240 phrases that were extracted from a pool of 1400 sentences addressing sexual problems. Sixty four scales under four headings (sexual general characteristics, deviations, dysfunctions and psychodynamic syndromes) (16 items each) were evaluated based on criteria of DSM-IV and ICD 10. Five validity scales (honesty, desirability, debasement, guilt feeling and overall validity) were also used for better assessment.

Methods

A total of 1300 patients in the four variants of the test were evaluated during a time span of 7 years. The questions were presented to examinees at 8th. Grade and higher in a calm environment and the results were evaluated by a computer software specifically developed for this purpose.

Results

The last version of the test was completed by 734 patients with excellent compliance. It was of nice politeness and comprehensiveness. For almost all scales the sensitivity and specificity were around 85 and 92% respectively.

Conclusion

We conclude that QSAF 2009 is an excellent tool both in clinics (diagnosis and follow up) and epidemiology with high sensitivity and specificity. It has also application in cross cultural studies, medico - legal issues and medical documentation. It prevents face to face interviews, breaks patients’ resistance and is less time consuming than scheduled interviews.