bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel anodic aluminum oxide‐based nanofabrication: applications in physics and biology
Authors: Moyen E. , Sahaf H. , Macé M. , Masson L. , Sengupta K. , Hanbücken M.
Published: June 2010

Porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes with varying but controlled morphology are used in several complementary experiments in physics and biology. The present paper gives a description of the membrane fabrication procedure and presents a selection of applications based on the use of the membranes when used as evaporation masks in growth experiments, as masks in reactive ion etching experiments or as molds to fabricate arrays of ordered polymer nanopillars. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rank friction: an ordinal approach to persistent profitability
Authors: Powell Thomas C. , Reinhardt Ingo
Published: June 2010

We present an ordinal method for studying persistence in firm profitability. The method is based on the degree of stability in a ranked performance distribution over time. The method gives a numerical index of rank friction (Rf) that can be applied to any ranked data over any period of time. Rf is nonparametric and can be used to test theoretical assumptions in strategic management. We illustrate the method in an empirical study of 40 years of profit data in 12 industries. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A component‐based development process for trustworthy systems
Authors: Mohammad Mubarak , Alagar Vangalur
Published: June 2010

This paper introduces a new process for a rigorous component‐centered development of trustworthy systems. The rationale for our perspective of the process is two‐fold. The activities prescribed in a conventional software engineering development process are neither suitable nor sufficient for developing component‐based systems. Component‐based development methods that are currently practised do not support the explicit specification of trustworthiness properties, and are not based on rigorous principles. Hence they are not suitable for developing trustworthy systems. Trustworthiness is regarded as a composite nonfunctional property comprising the four attributes safety, security, availability, and reliability. They must be rigorously defined for components and systems composed from them. It is essential that the process enforces a direct evidence of trustworthiness in the systems that are developed following the process. Consequently, the development process, in addition to being reuse‐oriented, component‐oriented, and rigorous in all phases of the system lifecycle, should maintain the chain of evidence that the trustworthiness properties are preserved in every activity of every phase of system development. The proposed process includes several parallel interrelated tracks including component development, component assessment, component reuse, and component‐based system development and prescribes specific activities and tools for ensuring trustworthiness in all activities. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The physicochemical and binder properties of starch from Persea americana Miller (Lauraceae)
Authors: Builders Philip F. , Nnurum Abigail , Mbah Chukwuemaka C. , Attama Anthony A. , Manek Rahul
Published: June 2010

Avocado starch was extracted from the kernels of the fruit Persea americana Miller (Fam. Lauraceae) and evaluated for its potential as an alternative to maize starch as a pharmaceutical excipient. Its physicochemical and thermal properties were evaluated and compared with those of maize starch. Granules prepared with avocado and maize starch pastes as binder were evaluated for their flow, friability and compaction characteristics. The average yield of starch extracted from the fresh kernels of P. americana was 20.5 ± 0.55% w/w. The scanning electron micrograph (SEM) showed that avocado starch has two characteristic granule shapes; triangular and circular both having an approximate equal distribution. The triangular shaped granules are larger (28 to 32 µm) than the circular (6 to 9 µm). The foaming capacity of avocado starch was 19.05 ± 0.6%, its swelling, moisture uptake and paste clarity were generally lower than that of the maize starch. Avocado starch gel exhibited an extent of syneresis after freeze–thaw that increased cumulatively with increase in number of freeze–thaw cycles. The glass transition (Tg) and gelatinisation temperatures for avocado starch were higher than that of maize starch. The melting temperatures (Tm), ash value, as well as the various densities of avocado starch showed similarities with those of maize starch. The granules prepared with avocado starch pastes as binder showed superior compactibility and mechanical strength to those of maize starch but with similar flow characteristics. Avocado starch generally showed distinct physicochemical and binder properties with some similarities to the standard maize starch.
Short‐term wind speed prediction in wind farms based on banks of support vector machines
Authors: Ortiz‐García Emilio G. , Salcedo‐Sanz Sancho , Pérez‐Bellido Ángel M. , Gascón‐Moreno Jorge , Portilla‐Figueras Jose A. , Prieto Luis
Published: June 2010

Wind speed prediction is a key point in the management of wind farms because it is directly related to the power produced by each of a farm's turbines. Wind speed prediction is usually one of the most important tasks in wind farming, and companies that manage these farms invest large amounts of money to improve their prediction systems. In this paper, we propose an improvement to an existing wind speed prediction system, using banks of regression Support Vector Machines (SVMr) for a final regression step in the system. Several novel SVMr structures are proposed in this paper to manage the diversity in input data arising from the use of different global forecasting models and several parameterizations of a mesoscale model, included in the basic version of the prediction system. We show that the system implementing SVMr banks outperforms the basic system without taking into account diversity in the input data. It also performs better than a similar system using banks of multi‐layer perceptrons. All the tests are carried out using real data from several wind turbines on a wind farm in southeast Spain. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Encoded anisotropic particles for multiplexed bioanalysis
Authors: Cederquist Kristin B. , Dean Stacey L. , Keating Christine D.
Published: June 2010

Encoded anisotropic nano‐ and microparticles represent an exciting new class of detection and identification strategies for bioanalysis. These particles are synthesized in a number of different ways and can be encoded by shape, composition, topographical features, or optical properties. In this review, we explore synthetic methods for the formation of anisotropic encoded particles and evaluate these systems as multiplexed biosensing platforms. Suspension arrays using anisotropic particles have been used to detect a range of biological species including proteins, nucleic acids, spores, cells, and small molecules. Because in many cases a large number of codes should be obtainable, the potential exists for high levels of multiplexing (thousands or more). The bulk of work in this area to date has focused on initial proof of principle synthesis and identification; however, multiplexed bioassays have been demonstrated for a number of different anisotropic carrier particles and are beginning to be adopted in commercial assays.WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol2010 2 578–600

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > In Vitro Nanoparticle-Based Sensing
Bioresponsive polymers for the delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids
Authors: Edinger Daniel , Wagner Ernst
Published: June 2010

Polymers present an interesting option for the delivery of genes and other therapeutic nucleic acids. In the delivery process, the polymeric carriers face many different delivery tasks and different physiological microenvironments. Polymers can be designed to respond to microenvironmental differences with changes in their physio‐chemical properties, enabling them to perform individual delivery tasks. Cleavage of covalent bonds, disassembly of noncovalent interactions, changes of protonation, conformation, or hydrophilicity/lipophilicity, can trigger such dynamic physicochemical adjustments. The polymeric carrier has to stably bind the therapeutic nucleic acid during the extracellular delivery phase and protect it against degradation in the bloodstream. At the intracellular site of action, the polyplex has to disassemble to an extent that the nucleic acid is functionally accessible. Polyplexes need to be shielded in the circulation and be inert against numerous possible biological interactions, but should actively interact with the target cell surface by electrostatic or ligand receptor interactions. Lipid‐membrane destabilization at the cell membrane or nontarget sites is usually associated with undesired cytotoxicity, the analogous biophysical event, however, is required within an endocytic vesicle for polyplex transfer into the cytosol. Strategies will be presented how bioresponsive polymers can be designed and incorporated into polyplexes. Examples include dynamic stabilization of the polymer/nucleic acid core and transient activation of properties required for crossing lipid‐membrane barriers. Bioresponsive delivery domains at the polyplex surface required for shielding, deshielding, and cell targeting also contribute to better performance. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2011 3 33–46 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.97

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
A global view of regulations affecting nanomaterials
Authors: Hansen Steffen F.
Published: June 2010

The 2000s have been characterized by an unprecedented exploration into research and development of nanotechnology and nanomaterials. Despite a slow start, new regulatory initiatives are popping up like mushrooms internationally. Many of these initiatives have yet to materialize themselves or are soft law initiatives, and their impact on the development of more authoritative and prescriptive regulatory measures is most likely to be limited. This is due to a number of transnational regulatory challenges that include: (1) whether to adapt existing legislation or develop a new regulatory framework, (2) whether nanomaterials should be considered as different from their bulk counterparts, (3) how to define nanotechnology and nanomaterials, and (4) how to deal with the profound limitations of risk assessment when it comes to nanomaterials. In this opinion, I discuss these and related issues and conclude that the development of a new authoritative and prescriptive regulatory framework might be the only way to effectively address these challenges while ensuring a transparent and informed decision‐making process. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2010 2 441–449

This article is categorized under:

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Regulatory and Policy Issues in Nanomedicine
Parental alcohol dependence, socioeconomic disadvantage and alcohol and cannabis dependence among young adults in the community
Authors: Melchior M. , Choquet M. , Le Strat Y. , Hassler C. , Gorwood P.
Published: June 2010

We tested the hypothesis that socioeconomic disadvantage exacerbates the intergenerational transmission of substance dependence. Among 3056 community-based young adults (18–22 years, 2007), the prevalence of alcohol dependence (WHO AUDIT, 5.8%) and cannabis dependence (DSM IV criteria, 7.3%) was doubled in the presence of combined parental alcohol dependence and socioeconomic disadvantage.
Epidemiology of stillbirth and strategies for its prevention in Vietnam
Authors: Hirst Jane E. , Arbuckle Susan M. , Do Trong M.H. , Ha Lieu T.T. , Jeffery Heather E.
Published: June 2010

Objective

To describe major epidemiologic and placental findings regarding stillbirth in Vietnam.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of all stillbirths in a tertiary referral facility in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, was performed. Detailed examination of each infant, placental pathology, and semi‐structured maternal interviews were conducted according to the Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand Perinatal Death Classification guidelines. Maternal, fetal, and placental characteristics were examined.

Results

Between December 8, 2008, and January 9, 2009, there were 4694 live births and 122 stillbirths at the facility. In total, 107 (87.7%) cases were included in the study. Low education level was associated with a lack of prenatal care; induced abortion accounted for 34.6% of fetal deaths (gender selection was not the reason); 35.5% of infants were born at 22–28 weeks of gestation; 31.8% of stillbirths were small for gestational age; histologic evidence of chorioamnionitis was present in 40.2% of cases. Calcium supplements were less likely to have been taken in cases in which death from hypertension occurred. α‐Thalassemia was the main cause of fetal hydrops (6.2%).

Conclusion

Improving access to prenatal care and prenatal calcium and iron supplementation, and screening for congenital abnormalities and α‐thalassemia may help to reduce rates of perinatal death in Vietnam.
Dating gestational age by last menstrual period, symphysis‐fundal height, and ultrasound in urban Pakistan
Authors: Jehan Imtiaz , Zaidi Shahida , Rizvi Sameera , Mobeen Naushaba , McClure Elizabeth M. , Munoz Breda , Pasha Omrana , Wright Linda L. , Goldenberg Robert L.
Published: June 2010

Objective

To compare the accuracy of the reported date of the last menstrual period (LMP) with that of symphysis‐fundal height (SFH) in the estimation of gestational age (GA), using an ultrasound (US) scan as reference.

Methods

Gestational age was concurrently assessed by the 3 methods in this prospective, population‐based, pregnancy‐outcome study conducted in Hyderabad, Pakistan, from June 18, 2003, through August 31, 2005, with 1128 women between 20 and 26 weeks of a singleton pregnancy.

Results

The mean GA was less by ultrasound than by SFH measurement or the reported LMP, and the mean differences with the US result were statistically significant (P < 0.001 for both). At delivery, about 75% of the GA values estimated by SFH measurement were within 7 days and almost 91% were within 14 days of the estimation by ultrasound, compared with 65% and 82% for the GA estimated by the reported LMP. Moreover, using the US as reference, the SFH correctly classified 84% of the term, 68% of the preterm, and 86% of the post‐term deliveries (weighted κ = 0.58) compared with the corresponding 79%, 61%, and 55% predicted by the reported LMP (weighted κ = 0.44).

Conclusion

The SFH measurement was found to be more accurate than the reported LMP as a tool to estimate GA and therefore date of delivery, but neither were as accurate as a US scan.
Implication of the RAGE–EN‐RAGE axis in endometriosis
Authors: Sharma Indu , Dhawan Veena , Saha Subhash Chand , Rashmi Bagga , Dhaliwal Lakhbir Kaur
Published: June 2010

Objective

To investigate the involvement of the receptor gene for advanced glycation (RAGE), its ligand EN‐RAGE, and COX‐2 in endometriosis.

Methods

The mRNA and protein expression of the corresponding genes were determined from endometriotic cells from 28 study patients and healthy endometrial stromal cells from 20 controls by semiquantitative RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively, using β‐actin as an invariant control.

Results

The expression of COX‐2, RAGE, and EN‐RAGE was significantly increased, as evidenced by the significantly greater mRNA and protein expression in the cells of the study patients (P < 0.001). Previous treatment for endometriosis did not lessen mRNA and protein expression (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings strengthen the hypothesis of an underlying inflammation in the pathophysiology of endometriosis and suggest exploring anti‐inflammatory therapies as adjunct treatment.
Drogenkonsum Jugendlicher und junger Erwachsener – Ergebnisse der Drogenaffinitätsstudie 2008
Authors: Stander Volker , Orth Boris
Published: June 2010

Einleitung

Seit 1973 führt die Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) in regelmäßigen Abständen Repräsentativerhebungen zur Drogenaffinität Jugendlicher und junger Erwachsener im Alter von 12 bis 25 Jahren durch. Es fanden bisher elf Querschnittserhebungen statt; die ersten sechs im Gebiet der alten Bundesrepublik und seit 1993 nun fünf in ganz Deutschland.

Der mit dem Begriff Drogenaffinität bezeichnete Untersuchungsgegenstand bezieht sich nicht nur auf die illegalen Rauschmittel, sondern auch auf Alkohol- und Tabakkonsum. Die Drogenaffinitätsstudie erhebt darüber hinaus die Konsummotive und die situativen Bedingungen des Gebrauchs von Alkohol, Tabak und illegalen Rauschmitteln, sowie die fördernden und hindernden Einflussfaktoren auf den Drogenkonsum Jugendlicher und junger Erwachsener. Ebenso enthält sie Indikatoren zur kommunikativen Erreichbarkeit der Jugendlichen mit Präventionsmaßnahmen.
Abrasion-derived sediments under intensified winds at the latest Pleistocene leading edge of the advancing Sinai–Negev erg
Authors: Enzel Yehouda , Amit Rivka , Crouvi Onn , Porat Naomi
Published: June 2010

Quaternary desert loess and sandstone–loessite relationships in the geological record raise questions regarding causes and mechanisms of silt formation and accretion. In the northern Sinai–Negev desert carbonate terrain, only sand abrasion in active erg could have produced the large quantities of quartzo-feldspathic silts constituting the late Quaternary northwestern Negev loess. In the continuum of source (medium to fine sand of dunes) to sink (silts in loess) the very fine sand is unaccounted for in the record. This weakens the sand abrasion model of silt formation as a global process. Here, we demonstrate that, as predicted by experiments, abrasion by advancing dunes generated large quantities of very fine sand (60–110 μm) deposited within the dune field and in close proximity downwind. This very fine sand was generated 13–11 ka, possibly synchronous with the Younger Dryas under gusty sand/dust storms in the southeastern Mediterranean and specifically in the northern Sinai–Negev erg. These very fine sands were washed down slope and filled small basins blocked by the advancing dunes; outside these sampling basins it is difficult to identify these sands as a distinct product. We conclude that ergs are mega-grinders of sand into very fine sand and silt under windy Quaternary and ancient aeolian desert environments.
Palynological records of Holocene monsoon change from the Gulf of Tonkin (Beibuwan), northwestern South China Sea
Authors: Li Zhen , Zhang Yulan , Li Yongxiang , Zhao Jing
Published: June 2010

Palynological records in cores C4 and B106 from the Gulf of Tonkin reveal signals of paleo-monsoon and paleoenvironmental change during the late Pleistocene and Holocene. Before ∼ 13.4 cal kyr BP, the Gulf of Tonkin was exposed to the atmosphere and covered by grassland. Starting at ∼ 11.7 cal kyr BP, the Gulf of Tonkin was inundated by brackish water, indicated by the appearance of the brackish algae Cleistosphaeridium, Sentusidinium and Spiniferites, a decrease of herb content, and an increase of Pinus. After Hainan Island was completely separated from the Leizhou Peninsula by Qiongzhou Strait at ∼ 8.5 cal kyr BP, a continuous marine sedimentary environment was found. The current patterns were similar to those of the present, with a general trend of current homogenization reflected by gradually decreasing quantities of Quercus pollen and a narrowing gap between the palynological concentrations of the southern and northern parts of the region. The data suggest that three short periods of strengthened winter monsoons and currents were centered at ∼ 6.0 cal kyr BP, ∼ 2.7 cal kyr BP and ∼ 0.2 cal kyr BP and that two short periods of strengthened summer monsoons and currents were centered at ∼ 7.5 cal kyr BP and ∼ 3.4 cal kyr BP.
S26-02 - Antipsychotic Treatment: Polypharmacy Versus Monotherapy
Authors: Naber D.
Published: June 2010

Numerous studies in different countries throughout the world have shown that 30-60% of schizophrenia patients, when treated with antipsychotic drugs, receive two or more antipsychotics simultaneously.

Reasons for antipsychotic polypharmacy are not often well described, they might be insufficient efficacy (was the maximal tolerable dosage given?), tolerability problems (severe or transient, treatable by other drugs?) or an “unfinished switching procedure”: Cross-tapering from antipsychotic A to antipsychotic B is stopped halfway at a reduced dosage of A and a sub-therapeutic dosage of B, because this combination seems to work. However, it is not known whether B alone would be better.

Most often, antipsychotics with different receptor binding and side effect profiles are combined, although scientific evidence supporting the common practice is rather limited. Most controlled studies did not reveal an advantage of the combination versus monotherapy. Particularly for clozapine, where anecdotal reports and open trials indicated the usefulness of a combination with amisulpride, aripiprazole or risperidone, double-blind trials were mostly negative. However, in individual patients, hard or impossible to define, well-reflected combinations might be justified.

The few controlled studies and the resulting suggestions for everyday practice are presented to answer the following questions: When (after how many weeks of monotherapy) is a combination justified? Are there any criteria to decide switching the antipsychotic versus combining antipsychotics? Which combination(s) of antipsychotics might be useful?
S26-03 - Off Label Use of Drugs in Psychiatry
Authors: Bitter I.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

One type of the treatment interventions is the “off label” use of a drug, which may include the use of a drug in a nonapproved indication, dose range, age group, drug combination and drug formulation. Research in this field is insufficient, while the medical, financial and legal consequences of off label use maybe serious. In case of off label use of a drug the manufacturer does not have any responsibility in case of adverse or serious adverse events.

Methods

Labels (summary of product characteristics) of antipsychotic drugs have been compared for indications and examples of regulations for off label use have been collected.

Results

Labels (summary of product characteristics) very rarely include indications for children, adolescents and for the elderly. A significant proportion of psychotic disorders listed in DSM-IV or in ICD 10 and major clinical syndromes have not been included as indications in the label of antipsychotic drugs. The same compound marketed by different companies under different names may have different labels.

The regulations for off label use of drugs vary between countries and as of today there is no common European regulation for off label drug use. In some countries off label drug prescription is not restricted, these prescriptions maybe reimbursed. Some countries restrict reimbursement of off label prescriptions and there are countries restricting the prescriptions.

Conclusions

More research (especially in young and old age groups) is needed in this field and some European guidelines/regulation would increase the safety of using drugs off label.
S20-01 - Parathyroid Hormone and Cognitive Deficits in Lithium-Treated Bipolar Patients
Authors: Severus E. , Fast K. , Tomova N. , Berger M. , Obermeier M. , Seemüller F. , Dittmann S. , Bernhard B. , Möller H.-J. , Riedel M.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Long-term lithium-treatment has been associated with deficits in several cognitive domains in euthymic bipolar patients. At the same time, long-term lithium treatment is also associated with an increase in parathyroid levels, often without a concomitant increase in calcium levels. Such an isolated increase in parathyroid levels has been linked to depressive symptoms and cognitive deficits in otherwise healthy individuals.

Aims

To investigate whether increased parathyroid levels are associated with cognitive deficits in euthymic bipolar patients.

Methods

We plan to recruit 30 euthymic bipolar patients on lithium treatment for this study. Patients will take part in several neuropsychological tests, covering executive functioning, memory and attention. In parallel, blood levels of lithium, parathyroid hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, creatinine, calcium and phosphate will be assessed, besides clinical chemistry and blood cell count. In addition, to account for potential confounders, a variety of clinical variables will be recorded, including established mood rating scales and demographic variables as well as further parameters relevant to the course of the illness.

Results

As the study is still ongoing results are not available yet at this moment.

Discussion

Results will be discussed in the context of previous studies examining the impact of lithium and parathyroid hormone on mood and cognition in healthy individuals and patients with bipolar disorder, respectively. Dependent on the outcome of this study, potential future studies, including intervention trials aiming at lowering increased PTH levels in bipolar patients on lithium will be outlined.
S29-03 - Web-Based Psychoeducation for Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Smith D.J.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Psychoeducational interventions are promising long-term therapeutic options for bipolar disorder. We have developed a novel, web-based psychoeducational treatment for bipolar disorder, called “Beating Bipolar” www.BeatingBipolar.org. This was developed using an interative process involving several focus groups with patients, carers, families and professionals. The key areas covered in the package are: i) diagnosis; ii) causes; iii) medication; iv) lifestyle; v) relapse prevention and early intervention; vi) psychological approaches; vii) gender-specific considerations and viii) advice for family and carers. The 8 modules are delivered online on a fortnightly basis over a four-month period.

Objectives and aims

We aim to test the acceptability of the package to users and are currently conducting an exploratory randomised clinical trial (Trial registration: ISRCTN81375447).

Methods

The primary outcome measure will be quality of life, measured using the WHOQOL-Bref, and secondary outcome assessments will include scores on the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), the Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST), the Schedule of Assessment of Insight (SAI), the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), and the number and severity of depressive and manic or hypomanic episodes experienced during the 10-month follow-up period. An assessment of costs and a detailed process evaluation involving qualitative interviews with participants will also be completed.

Results

Initial findings will be presented during the symposium.

Conclusions

It is expected that findings from this exploratory trial will inform the design of a definitive randomised controlled trial of this intervention in the future.
S24-01 - Neuroticism: an Intermediate Phenotype for Major Depression
Authors: Rujescu D.
Published: June 2010

There is strong evidence for a heritability of major depression as shown by family, twin- and adoption studies. Several studies suggest a heritability for unipolar depression between 35 and 75% which is much lower than the heritability of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. There is no doubt, that major depression is not caused by any single gene but it is a disease with complex genetic features. Furthermore, some subtypes, as early-onset or recurrent depression may have a higher heritability than other forms of depression. Neuroticism as an intermediate phenotype of MDD, which is a trait that reflects a tendency toward negative mood states, and has been linked to internalizing depressive conditions. For these reasons Dan Rujescu will present genome-wide and candidate gene studies, demonstrating a genetic approach for discovering potentially important pathogenic pathways for which clinically powerful (bio)markers may eventually be developed. He will discuss neuroticism as an intermediate phenotype of MDD, which is a trait that reflects a tendency toward negative mood states and has been linked to internalizing depressive conditions.
S13-01 - Substance Abuse Treatment as a Predictor of Criminal Recidivism Among Psychiatrically Examined Swedish Offenders
Authors: Durbeej N. , Gumpert C.H. , Alm C. , Eriksson Å. , Berman A.H. , Kristiansson M. , Lindqvist P. , Palmstierna T.
Published: June 2010

Background

Substance abuse is clearly associated with criminal recidivism among offenders with and without mental disorder. Treatment for substance abuse correlates with lower rates of re-offending among participants in outpatient-based as well as institution-based substance abuse treatment programs. However, for offenders with mental disorder, research on the possible preventive effect of substance abuse treatment on criminal recidivism is sparse. This paper reports from on an ongoing naturalistic and prospective interview study on the relationship between post-release outpatient substance abuse treatment and re-offending.

Methods

The Stockholm county sample comprises 246 offenders of both genders subjected to a forensic psychiatric assessment, who screened positive for substance abuse problems. Eighty-five percent (n=210) agreed to participate in the study. Baseline data and follow-up interview data, collected immediately on release from incarceration (prison/forensic hospital) and 6 and 12 months later, include self-reported substance abuse, treatment involvement and criminality. By February 2010, data will be available from the first follow-up for 150 participants, from the second follow-up for 80 individuals and from the third follow-up for 10 subjects.

Results and conclusions

The focus of the presentation will be recidivism comparisons between substance abuse treatment utilizers and those who decline treatment. Data on ongoing levels of substance abuse, mental health problems and offending will serve as dependent variables. Additional analyses will present perceived benefit from and reasons for accepting or rejecting treatment.
S13-04 - Risk Reductions in Dangerous and Severe Personality Disordered Forensic In-Patients Measured with the HCR-20 Violence Risk Assessment Scheme
Authors: Sheldon K. , Gallagher J.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

Admission to one of the Dangerous and Severe Personality Disordered (DSPD) services in England and Wales is heavily determined by risk status and monitoring of changes in risk over time is a core procedure. However, the extent to which DSPD services are effective in terms of reducing risk is one of the most important questions yet to be answered. This paper seeks to examine whether risk, as measured by the Historical-Clinical-Risk-20 (HCR-20) (Webster et al. 1997), posed by patients admitted to a high-secure psychiatric DSPD unit reduces according to length of time in the unit.

Methods

Admission and discharge/current treatment status HCR-20 measures were collected for 58 concurrent DSPD admissions for period 25th March 2004 to 22nd July 2009.

Results

Overall longer ‘treatment’ times were associated with lower scores on the dynamic risk scales of the HCR-20 for a group of patients admitted to the high secure DSPD facility. Specifically, Clinical and Risk scores both reduced by .05 points (monthly). Historical risk did not change over time.

Conclusions

These changes are promising, since positive changes in a high-risk group of mentally disordered offenders on such factors as insight and impulsivity are known to be hard to accomplish. The results provide support for the proposition that the C and R scales of the HCR-20 are dynamic. Attention to whether risk reduction translates to lower institutional infractions and future recidivism is recommended.
S11-01 - The Depression Initiative. The Evaluation of the Processes, Costs and Impact of a Depression Breakthrough Collaborative. Quasi-Experimental Trial
Authors: Franx G. , Oud M. , Spijker J. , Huyser J. , Feltz-Cornelis C. , de Lange J. , Wensing M. , Grol R.
Published: June 2010

In the Netherlands, the Depression Initiative has been launched in 2006 as a nationwide attempt to implement the Multidisciplinary Guideline for Depression and to evaluate its cost effectiveness. An evaluation of the selected strategy to implement the guidelines, a Breakthrough Collaborative, was conducted as a quasi experimental trial. The intervention group consisted of around 530 patients coming from 10 multidisciplinary teams in primary care. The intervention teams received a set of implementation strategies, as part of the Breakthrough Method, developed by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (www.ihi.org). The aim of the participants in this implementation project was to implement guideline recommendations directed at a reduction of unnecessary antidepressant treatment for patients with mild depression, better use of effective, but minimally invasive treatment options and improved antidepressant and psychotherapeutic treatment for patients with severe symptoms. Monitoring depression severeness was also one of the goals. This guideline derived, stepped care approach was compared to Care As Usual in the primary care setting, as provided in a different study group (NESDA). Outcomes were measured in terms of quality of care provided by the general practitioner (antidepressant prescription rates) and clinical outcomes (BDI, IDS-SR, WHODAS). A process evaluation and simple economic evaluation was part of the study design. In the presentation, preliminary results will be presented.
S11-03 - Evidence-Based Psychotherapy for Chronic Depression
Authors: Kuehner C.
Published: June 2010

Background

The various forms of chronic depression account for about 1/3 of depressive disorders. Chronic depression is characterized by low rates of spontaneous remissions, requiring longer and more intense treatment than episodic depression. While considerable research has confirmed the efficacy of specific psychotherapies in the treatment of episodic depression, only few studies have addressed chronic depression.

Aim

To assess the efficacy of specific psychotherapies in chronic depression and to provide recommendations for future research.

Method

Systematic review of the literature.

Results

Identified studies varied largely regarding sample sizes, outcome criteria, and characteristics of treatment. Limited research suggests that more traditional approaches (CBT, IPT) have shown only modest success in the treatment of chronic depression. The Cognitive Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy (CBASP), combining behavioural, cognitive, and interpersonal strategies, has demonstrated good efficacy in combination with medication in one large study so far. In general, combinations of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy appear to improve treatment effects with regard to broader outcome criteria and longterm outcome.

Conclusion

A broader empirical basis is needed to allow firmer conclusions on the efficacy of different types of psychotherapy in chronic depression. Larger randomized studies are needed, particularly those investigating additive effects of combined treatment, comparisons of specific interventions, and dose-related outcomes. It may also be necessary to expand traditional short-term approaches by designing studies which explicitly adopt suggested model-specific options for chronicity. Studies should also consider possible predictors of outcome, such as early versus late onset and comorbidity, as well as health economic aspects.
S11-04 - Integrated Care of Depressive Disorders - the Freiburg Model
Authors: Bermejo I. , Voderholzer U. , Hölzel L. , Berger M.
Published: June 2010

A carefully planned comprehensive and integrated care model of in- and outpatient depression treatment is a promising way to achieve improvements in care. Within the framework of the Freiburg Model of integrated care for depressive disorders a network of psychiatrists and primary care physicians offers in collaboration with the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of the University of Freiburg a coordinated treatment for patients with depressive disorders. Complementary to an evidence-based outpatient treatment the department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy offers a complex treatment where patients can use the different inpatient measures during their outpatient treatment. In addition patients with a chronic depression can make use of a specific treatment program.
S23-03 - Lithium Treatment and the Risk of Dementia
Authors: Kessing L.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

To investigate whether treatment with lithium in patients with mania or bipolar disorder is associated with a decreased rate of dementia.

Methods

Linkage of register data on prescribed lithium in all patients discharged from psychiatric health care service with a diagnosis of mania or bipolar disorder and subsequent diagnoses of dementia in Denmark during a period from 1995 to 2005.

Results

Continued treatment with lithium was associated with a reduced rate of dementia in patients with bipolar disorder, in contrast to continued treatment with anticonvulsants, antidepressants or antipsychotics. Methodological reasons for these findings cannot be excluded due to the non-randomized nature of data. A total of 4.856 patients with a diagnosis of a manic or mixed episode or bipolar disorder at their first psychiatric contact were included in the study. Among these patients, 2,449 (50.4%) were exposed to lithium, 1,781 were exposed to anticonvulsants (36.7%), 4,280 to antidepressants (88.1%) and 3,901 to antipsychotics (80.3%) during the study period. A total of 216 patients got a diagnosis of dementia during follow-up (103.6 / 10.000 person years). During the period following the second prescription of lithium the rate of dementia was decreased compared to the period following the first prescription. In contrast, the rates of dementia during multiple prescription periods with anticonvulsants, antidepressants or antipsychotics, respectively, were not significantly decreased compared to the rate of dementia during the period with one prescription.

Conclusion

Continued treatment with lithium was associated with a reduced rate of dementia.
S19-02 - Effects of Social Determinants on Depression and Suicidality
Authors: Aichberger M.C. , Bromand Z. , Heredia-Montesinos A. , Yesil R. , Temur-Erman S. , Heinz A. , Rapp M.A. , Schouler-Ocak M.
Published: June 2010

Migration-related factors could be additional risk factors for the development of depression and suicidal behaviour in migrant populations. In particular, the success or failure of migration will impact on migrants’ mental well-being. The premigration experiences, the act of migration itself, the motive for migration, postmigration experiences and the structural prerequisites in the host country play a central role. On the basis of the results of a population based study on the factors associated with mental distress in female Turkish migrants in two German cities (Berlin, Hamburg) the impact of migration-specific factors on the expression of mental distress will be discussed. Factors which will be examined among others are, reasons for migration, residence status, perceived ethnic discrimination and acculturation strategies, socio-economic status and traumatic experiences (pre- and post-migration).
S19-03 - Differences and Commonalities in Different Migrant Groups and Suicidality
Authors: Kastrup M.
Published: June 2010

A nationwide register study was carried out in Denmark comprising 50,877 persons aged 18-66, who were registered in 2003 in the Danish Psychiatric Register or the National Patient Register with a psychiatric ICD-10 diagnosis.

Of the population 87.1% were ethnic Danes, 7.8% migrants, 4.0% descendants with one Danish born parent, 0.7% descendants with both parents born outside Denmark and 0.3% foreign adoptees. Males comprised 49%, women 51% of the population.

The 5 ethnic groups had significant differences in utilization of care, in diagnostic distribution and in the use of coercion.

Self-mutilating behaviour was seen more frequently among female descendants from non-Western countries than among migrant women from non -Western countries as well as among young adopted women. Similarly, we see that personality disorders were higher in adopted and descendant young women. In males, we found that substance abuse was higher among men in all ethnic groups, but lower among migrant groups compared to Danes.

The paper will discuss possible explanations to these findings in terms of e.g. cultural identity, acculturation and gender issues and relate findings to findings found in other European countries.
S02-02 - Did Video Kill the Radio Star? - Assessing Gambling and Multimedia Use in Luxembourg's High School Students
Authors: Paulos C. , Duscherer K.
Published: June 2010

For years, addiction prevention was centered on substance abuse. This focus has shifted recently, especially in regard to children and teenagers, with a growing concern on potentially knotty behaviors, namely gambling and computer, Internet or video game abuse. With the recent soar and availability of the new technologies, it is however extremely difficult to assess which kind of behavioral patterns can be considered as normal, or not, in the contemporary teenage population. To gather benchmark results, we therefore initiated two nationwide surveys, reaching all the students enrolled in the public or private high schools in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

The first survey aims at assessing the frequency and modalities of gambling in Luxembourg's high school students. These data will be especially relevant for the pending legislative discussions whether the national gambling regulations should include a paragraph about the protection of minors or not.

The second survey aims at assessing multimedia use by Luxembourg's high school students. These questions not only inquire the accessibility to various technologies, but also try to depict teenagers’ daily behavior and use of the available technologies. The main objective of this survey is to assess to which extend the technologies are used in different tasks (i.e. work, communication, leisure), but also to appraise whether this population has pleasing access to the current media.
S07-01 - An Integrated Model of Perinatal Care
Authors: Barnett B. ,   Reproductive Mental Health
Published: June 2010

Promotion, prevention and early intervention (PPEI) are now part of the jargon in health policy statements, but accommodating this in conventional health and mental health services is proving difficult. Effective collaboration across services in mainstream health, psychiatry, other social agencies and into the community is not easily accomplished. One fundamental problem is that the terms: “early intervention” and “mental health” are defined differently by different disciplines and specialties; another is that underlying issues for the woman and family are poorly understood. In addition, there are many silos, stakeholders, egos and agendas, and much competition for funds. For best PPEI results in the perinatal field, these barriers must be overcome. An inclusive model of service delivery being implemented in both public and private health systems in several States in Australia will be described and the resistances discussed.
S28-01 - Pharmacogenetics of the Metabolic Consequences of Antipsychotic Drug Treatment
Authors: Reynolds G.
Published: June 2010

Introduction

Several antipsychotic drugs cause profound weight gain which can lead to further morbidity as indicated by the development of metabolic syndrome. These metabolic consequences of antipsychotic drug treatment show substantial variability between individuals, due in part to genetic factors.

Objectives

To identify genetic polymorphisms contributing to individual variability in the metabolic consequences of antipsychotic drug treatment.

Methods

Common functional polymorphisms in several candidate genes implicated in the control of body weight have been investigated for association with weight gain in subjects initiating antipsychotic drug treatment, and with metabolic pathology in chronic schizophrenia.

Results

In two studies of initially drug-free patients, we reported a strong association with antipsychotic-induced weight gain of a promoter region polymorphism of the 5-HT2C receptor, which is known to influence gene expression. The gene for leptin, a hormone controlling food intake, also has a functional promoter polymorphism which is associated with antipsychotic-induced weight gain, particularly in the longer term. Both polymorphisms are associated with circulating concentrations of leptin. Findings in chronically-treated patients have revealed association of the leptin gene polymorphism with the incidence of metabolic syndrome, while we find the obesity-related FTO gene is associated with measures of obesity in these subjects, and also interacts with the 5-HT2C gene in influencing weight gain in drug-naive subjects.

Conclusions

Identifying common genetic factors associated drug-induced weight gain and its metabolic consequences may provide clues as to the underlying mechanisms as well as providing opportunities for personalized medicine in the predictive assessment of metabolic risk.
S28-03 - Pharmacogenetics of Therapy Response in Schizophrenia
Authors: Spellmann I. , Rujescu D. , Musil R. , Mayr A. , Giegling I. , Genius J. , Zill P. , Dehning S. , Hartmann A.M. , Bondy B. , Müller N. , Möller H.-J. , Riedel M.
Published: June 2010

Pharmacogenetics in schizophrenia comprises pharmacokinetical and pharmacodynamical aspects as well as an approach to identify candidate genes associated with therapy response or side effects. Firstly focussing on classical drug targets like dopaminergic or serotonergic receptors, currently also developmental and regulatory genes presumably associated with effects of antipsychotic therapy are identified. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between therapy response in schizophrenic patients and different polymorphisms previously been identified within a genome wide array in rodents treated with MK-801 and/or haloperidol combined with some well-known schizophrenia candidate genes. We genotyped for 200 different polymorphisms in 285 schizophrenic patients, who were treated with different antipsychotics within randomized controlled trials. Psychopathology was measured weekly using the PANSS scale. Correlations between psychopathology and genotypes were calculated by using a linear model (ANCOVA).

We found significant associations between some well-known candidate genes (e.g. D2-, 5HT1A-, and α1A-receptors) and different PANSS subscales at baseline and after four weeks of antipsychotic treatment considered as therapy response. Furthermore we also identified several significant associations between some genes introduced from the animal model and psychopathology at baseline and towards therapy response. Some of them were formerly described in the literature (e.g. Homer1, Phospholipase C and Transthyretin), but most of them have not been related to schizophrenia or antipsychotic treatment by now (e.g. PLEKHA6, CLIC6 and SOSTDC1).

This indicates an involvement of genes in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia apart from yet known candidate genes and might further help in detecting differential therapy response in individuals with schizophrenia.