bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived job stress of women workers in diverse manufacturing industries
Authors: Lu S.F.D. , Lu J.L.
Published: May 2011

Objective

This was An investigation of the impact of organizational factors on perceived job stress among women workers in the IT-dominated garment and electronics industries in the Philippines was undertaken.

Aim

To target risk factors affecting women workers.

Methods

The sample included 23 establishments with 630 women respondents. Questionnaires, walk-through surveys of the industries, and interviews were done. The workplace factors included the content of the job, the nature of tasks, job autonomy, hazard exposure, and management and supervisory styles.

Results

Chi-square analysis showed that there were interactions among the organizational factors (P = 0.05 and 0.10). These factors included the need for better quality and new products; tasks requiring intense concentration; exposure to radiation, chemical, noise, and vapor hazards; standing for prolonged periods of time; and highly monitored, repetitious work. Workers experienced job stress (P = .05) when they were subjected to low job autonomy, poor work quality, close monitoring, and hazardous work pressure.

Conclusion

This study has shown that there exists an intricate relationship between work hazards, organizational factors, gender, health and technology. Organizational factors that have been identified to contribute to adverse health effects among women workers were the physical work environment, nature of the task, lack of job autonomy, and difficult relationships with supervisors and management.
Women's mental health promotion: A counseling service for women in crisis
Authors: Markovic-Zigic D. , Vukovic B. , Milicevic-Kalasic A.
Published: May 2011

Counseling Service for Women in Crisis is an out-patient unit of the Department of Psychiatry (Clinical Center “Dr Dragisa Misovic) engaged in mental health prevention. It was established in co-ordinance with contemporary directives of the World Health Organization which emphasizes health care for women as one of its priorities. The service addresses clients with coping problems during biological and/or psychosocial transitional and crisis periods. Members of the professional team are: a female psychiatrist-psychotherapist also trained in other aspects of women's health, family therapist, social worker, relaxation therapist and nurse with additional midwife skills. When treating women in menopause, pregnancy and confinement cooperation with departments of gynecology and obstetrics is regular and reciprocal. In addressing pregnant and breast- feeding clients non-pharmacological methods are first choice therapy (psychotherapy, relaxation, acupuncture). Psychosocial adverse events reported by our clients (marital conflicts, divorce, abuse, bereavement, loss of job, mobbing...) often require collaboration with social services, legal organs and non-government organizations. Care-givers of oncology and dementia patients with psychosomatic problems are referred to us as well as women after diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer by relevant departments and institutions. This service with its multidisciplinary approach is a contribution to contemporary programs of mental health prevention in Serbia.
Comparison of life quality of patients with abnormal uterine bleeding who have been treated by hysterectomy or hormone therapy
Authors: Marofi M. , Kazemi K. , Homayoni M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common problem in women that can adversely affect their quality of life. In this survey the quality of life of the patients has been treated by hysterectomy and whom have received hormone therapy have been studied.

Method

This is a descriptive and comparative clinical study in which 54 women have been treated due to AUB by hysterectomy and 54 women received hormone therapy because of the same reason completed the WHO questionnaire for life quality. Data then analyzed by independent t test, ANCOVA and Mann-Wittnei using SPSS software.

Results

With regard to the total score of the questionnaire, there was no difference between two groups (61.77 ± 9.30 for hysterectomy group vs. 65.36 ± 7.32 for hormone group, P = 0.34).On the other hand, considering the mental dimension score of the questionnaire, a significant difference was observed between groups (50.72 ± 16.81 for hysterectomy group vs. 80.09 ± 10.37 for hormone group, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that at least mental aspects of quality of life are significantly better in the AUB patients treated by hormone therapy, comparing to those treated by hysterectomy. Education and counseling of the patients and their families may improve life quality in more cases.
A therapeutic “innovation”…
Authors: Matos-Pires A. , Salazar-Garcia F. , Monteiro E. , Estevens D.
Published: May 2011

Domestic violence, particularly violence against women, is a scourge that has killed this year in Portugal more than twenty women.

Our aim is to present a case study on the issue of gender violence on a 49 years old woman with a prior diagnosis of bipolar disorder and its (terrible) consequences.

The multiple injuries sustained over several years “treated” the bipolar disorder. Apart from a frontal lesion on CT there is now a set of neurological and psychiatric symptoms compatible with a diagnosis of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) “boxer's dementia” like.
Sexuality and body image: What link?
Authors: Mnif L. , Masmoudi J. , Feki I. , Charfi N. , Bâati I. , Jaoua A.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Resarches on body image suggest a link with sexuality.

The objective of our study was to investigate Tunisian women's perceptions of their bodies and its involvement on sexuality.

Methods and patients

A total of 100 Tunisian women were interviewed using a self-administered questionnaire which explores:

-

Clinical data: weight, height, hormonal status

-

The perception of women to their bodies and their husband's perception.

-

The impact of body image on sexual activity

Results

Women's body image was positive in most cases: The body is seen as female in 94% of cases, young in 76% of cases, physically attractive in 66% and erotic in 51% of cases.

Eighty five percent of women were satisfied with their sexual activity. These women report having an erotic body (p = 0.009) and source of self-confidence (p = 0.002).

Half of women said that their body image allowed them to take the initiative in sexual activity and to have a satisfying desire (p = 0.003).

A positive perception of the spouse of a woman's body influenced significantly the sexual behavior of women: more interest to intimate moments (p = 0.001), ability to initiate sexual activity (p = 0.014) and sexual satisfaction (p = 0.018).

Conclusion

Our study shows the positive role of an adequate perception of body image of women by herself and her spouse about sexuality, through its influence on self-esteem and confidence. It would be interesting to consider these dimensions in any treatment of sexual disorders.
Augmentation mammoplasty and sexuality
Authors: Moutinho A. , Pereira A.V. , Jorge G.
Published: May 2011

The interest in breasts in our society can hardly escape the attention of even a casual observer. It has been found that women with larger breasts than the average were considered to be more physically attractive and have greater social outcomes.

Some women consider themselves less beautiful or feminine because of the lack of “ideal” size and shape. This feeling of inadequacy may lead to lowered levels of self-esteem and sexuality.

Although not extensively researched, psychologic factors have attributed to the dramatic increase in the number of performed breast augmentation procedures. As this number continues to rise it is important that healthcare providers comprehend the degree to sexuality may affect their patients’ outcomes.

This review is designed to provide an overview of the psychological and sexuality literature on cosmetic breast augmentation. It seems to exist a positive effect of breast augmentation surgery on woman's sexuality, as well in other psychological aspects. This relation need to be explored further in future studies.
The influence of social support, conflict, and stressful life events on PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptom severity in U.S. army female veterans
Authors: Nayback-Beebe A.M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

There have been prevailing gender differences in negative mental health outcomes for female U.S. veterans returning from combat deployments. Research has validated the importance of post-deployment social support in mitigating the effects of these experiences on mental health; however, the influence of conflict within the social network has not been thoroughly explored.

Aims

(1)

Examine the relationships between social support, conflict, and stressful life events to PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptom severity in female veterans 6–12 months after deployment.

(2)

Determine whether the absence of social support or the presence of social conflict is more influential in the severity of these symptoms.

Methods

Descriptive, correlational

Results

There were significant positive bivariate correlations (p < .01) between conflict and stressful life events and significant negative bivariate correlations (p < .01) between social support and each of the three outcome variables: PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms. Hierarchical linear regression showed that co-morbid depression, greater post-deployment stressful life events, and greater conflict within the social network best explained the presence of greater PTSD symptom severity. Stressful life events did not contribute to greater anxiety symptom severity; however, symptom severity was affected by the absence of social support. In contrast, greater depression symptom severity was best explained by the presence of co-morbid PTSD symptoms and the absence of social support.

Conclusions

Treatment programs for PTSD and anxiety in female veterans’ post-deployment must assess and address sources of intrapersonal conflict within their social networks. Family therapy may be integral to treatment success.
The role of perfectionism in perinatal depression (ICD-10, DSM-IV and BDI-II, PDSS)
Authors: Maia B. , Pereira A.T. , Marques M. , Soares M.J. , Bos S. , Valente J. , Allen A. , Nogueira V. , Azevedo M.H. , Macedo A.
Published: May 2011

Aims

The role of perfectionism as a correlate of perinatal depressive symptomatology, and as a predictor of postpartum depressive disorder was examined.

Methods

386 women in their third trimester of pregnancy (mean age = 30.08 years; SD = 4.205; range = 19–44) completed the Portuguese versions of Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, Beck Depression Inventory-II/BDI-II, Postpartum Depression Screening Scale/PDSS and three additional questions evaluating anxiety trait, life stress perception and social support. Diagnoses of depression (ICD-10/DSM-IV) were obtained using the Portuguese version of the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies/OPCRIT system. Women who were clinically depressed in pregnancy (ICD-10/DSM-IV) were excluded from the analysis.

Results

Self-Oriented Perfectionism/SOP and Socially Prescribed Perfectionism/SPP subcomponents were significant correlates of depressive symptomatology (BDI-II/PDSS) in pregnancy. SPP-Others High Standards/OHS was a significant predictor of postpartum depressive symptomatology (BDI-II/PDSS), and SPP-Conditional Acceptance/CA was a predictor of postpartum depressive symptomatology (PDSS). None of the perfectionism subscales predicted postpartum depressive disorder (ICD-10/DSM-IV).

Conclusions

SOP and SPP have shown to be relevant correlates of depressive symptomatology in pregnancy. In the present study, SPP-OHS and SPP-CA were also significant correlates of perinatal depressive symptomatology, as well as important risk factors for depressive symptomatology in postpartum. Perfectionism subscales were not significant predictors of postpartum depressive disorder (ICD-10/DSM-IV). While SPP maladaptive influence was supported, SOP was shown to be more heterogeneous in its consequences. These findings may have important implications both for clinical practice and for research.
The Portuguese short version of the postpartum depression screening scale
Authors: Pereira A.T. , Bos S. , Maia B.R. , Marques M. , Soares M.J. , Gomes A.A. , Valente J. , Nogueira V. , Macedo A. , Azevedo M.H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Screening for perinatal depression is essential. The Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS; Beck & Gable, 2002) is a self-report instrument, composed of 35 items. The Portuguese version of the PDSS revealed to be a valid instrument to screen for perinatal depression (Pereira et al., 2010a,b).

Objectives

To develop PDSS short version and to determine its cut-off points and associated conditional probabilities to screen for depression according to DSM-IV and ICD-10 criteria.

Methods

Participants were 452 women in their third month post-partum (M = 13.07 weeks post-partum; SD = 1.808). All women completed the Portuguese PDSS and were interviewed using the Mood Disorders Section/Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies. To select items for the short version the items that showed the highest correlations with their respective seven dimension scores were retained. ROC analysis was applied and both cut-off points and associated conditional probabilities adjusted to the real prevalence were determined.

Results

For major depression/DSM-IV the cut-off point of 15, resulted in sensitivity of 77.8%, specificity of 88.9%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 21.7% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.9%; for depressive disorder/ICD-10 the cut-off point of 14 determined sensitivity 77.3%, specificity 84.0%, PPV 19.7%, NPV 98.6%; for mild/moderate depression with somatic syndrome or severe depression without psychotic symptoms/ICD-10 the cut-off point of 18 was associated to sensitivity 91.7%, specificity 94.5%, PPV 31.4% and NPV 99.8%.

Conclusions

The Portuguese short version of PDSS is a good alternative to the 35-items version, equally valid and precise, but more economic, faster and easier.
The effects of yoga in women with generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Ranjbar F. , Hemmati L. , Rezaei S.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

GAD is one of the most common disorders in psychiatry, usually observed twice in women than in men.

Aims

Considering the side effects of drugs and their financial burden, the purpose of this research was to study the effects of yoga as a complementary treatment on GAD in women.

Methods

In a single blind clinical trial the effects of yoga on GAD was studied in 40 women who were diagnosed with GAD by psychiatrist interview, SADS questionnaire and spilberger's anxiety scale in psychiatric clinics. The participants were randomly divided into two intervention and control. All the participants took the usual drugs (SSRIs). The intervention group was given Hata yoga instruction for six weeks, while the control group was only watching movies. At the end of the six week period the spilberger anxiety scale was refilled for both groups. Finally the comparison was done by statistical methods for both groups.

Results

The mean ages of intervention and control groups were 37.7 ± 9.87 and 37.65 ± 10.42 respectively. Improvement was observed in both groups after the six week period. The grades of state and trait anxiety were declined according to spilberger anxiety scale but no statistical difference was observed in two groups regarding improvement.

Conclusions

In the present study no statistical difference was observed between two groups however the participants of intervention group were inclined to continue their yoga sessions due to sense of well being. So it is concluded that yoga can have a positive effect on anxiety in long terms.
Exercise participation in postpartum women in Western Australia
Authors: Saligheh M. , Mcnamara B. , Rooney R.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Research evidence suggests that the prevalence rate of postpartum depression in Western countries is 10–25% (Beck, 2001; O’ Hara & Swain, 1996). Many women diagnosed with postnatal depression(PND) are reluctant to take antidepressant medication (Whitton,1996). Coupled with the limited availability of psychological therapies, the consideration of adjunctive interventions for managing PND would appear worthwhile. Physical activity(PA) has been demonstrated to both mediate and improve outcomes for depression (Dimeo, 2001; Nabkasorn et al., 2006) in the general population, and in moderating the impact of PND (Daley, 2009).

Objectives

To describe physical activity participation in a cohort of postpartum women in Western Australia

To investigate the factors associated with physical activity participation in postpartum women Examine the differences between women reporting PND and those without on physical activity

Aims

Study 1 was the distribution of a postpartum physical activity questionnaire through child health clinics to mothers within the 6 weeks to12 months postpartum period.

Methods

Cohort design was used to recruit mothers within postpartum period

Results

The results from the study showed that mothers who were at the risk of PND had the same level of physical activity in compare to normal mothers. The T-test showed there was not any significant correlation. Analysis revealed that there was a significant correlation between the effect of PND on parental self-confidence and partner support.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that further exploration needs to be considered to explore mothers’ experience of physical activity, its barriers and the interaction of their partners in order to exercise after child birth.
Female prisoners: Experiences and perceptions on violence in the world behind bars
Authors: Scherer Z.A.P. , Scherer E.A. ,   GREIVI - Grupo de Estudos Interdisciplinar Sobre Violência; FAPESP/CNPq
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Prison can be considered an oppressive and limiting institution and, hence, a propitious site for the development of conflicting and hostile relations among prisoners.

Objective

Describe female prisoners’ experiences and perceptions regarding violence in the prison environment.

Aims

Get to know the circumstances of relationships established at a female prison.

Method

Exploratory and descriptive research, carried out at the Female Penitentiary in Ribeirão Preto (SP) - Brazil. A semistructured interview was applied to 15 female prisoners. The results were submitted to thematic content analysis.

Results

Two categories were idenitfied. “Perception of violence in prison”: they denounced the power hierarchy form, in which some prisoners and employees used physical force as an instrument for authority and dominion; they also revealed being victim of sexual abuse and psychological mistreatment in interpersonal relations (rejection, depreciation, discrimination, disrespect, intimidation, oppression and charge). “Losses deriving from imprisonment”: they complained of the precarious hygiene conditions, overcrowded cells and difficult access to health services; distancing from the family, loss of comfort and civil rights, particularly the right to do what they want (choosing food, practicing sports and leisure).

Conclusion

Prison can be considered the representation of a place of exclusion, closed, enclosing multiple violent acts. This directly influences the perspective of life and future interpersonal relations of people going through this experience. Thus, interventions are needed that prioritize high-quality social reintegration for these people.
Mental outcomes of contraceptive methods on Semnanian women in heath centers
Authors: Shahbazinodeh A. , Behnam B. , Ghrbani R.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Contraceptive methods can cause physical and mental outcome of user contraceptive methods on Semnanian women.

Material and methods

In this study 961 women using contraceptive methods were interviewed by SCL-90-R all of interviews were executed at3 stages: Just before surgeries six months later and a year after that. All of these data were analyzed by SPSS 11.5 on 5% significant, with K. Square test.

Findings

Demographic data showed that 91.7% from urban and 8.3% from rural; mean age : 25.8 ± 5; 90% householders Percentage of each procedure was pills: 40%; IUD: 3.9%; Injection: 2%,Tubectomy 5.7%, vasectomy's husbands 2.1%, natural 7.2% and willing for another pregnancy 5.0%.

Beginning of the study

Those who had used permanent methods and the need for consultation or treatment were: 20 / 3% Aggression, 19 / 7% anxiety, 29 / 8%phobia, interpersonal sensitivity 23%, somatic complaints 29 / 6%, obsession20 / 8%, Depression 26 / 1%, psychosis6/ 8%.

Those in the baseline methods and the need for temporary use consultation or treatment were: 19 / 9% Aggression, 19 / 7% anxiety, 27 / 6% Phobia, 18 / 8% interpersonal sensitivity, 24 / 6% somatic complaints, 22 / 7% depression, 9 / 1% were psychosis. there was not a Significant difference between the severity of disorder 6 months and one year after the use of contraceptive methods

Conclusion

Results showed that use of contraceptive methods will not increase the severity of mental disorders after a year and a half of usage.
Exercise imagery and physical self description in females: A new trajectory for mental health through e-learning
Authors: ShahHoseini N. , Kordi R. , Memari A.H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Low levels of physical activity in the female population have been linked to a wide range of mental health problems (e.g. eating disorders and depression). Physical self description in female students may affect the functionality of their daily life or academic performance. Physical education research has extended to investigations of psychological constructs that influence not only physical activity but also play an important role in mental health of females.

Aim

This study was aimed to examine effect of exercise imagery mediated by e-learning on psycho-physical measures of female students.

Methods

Thirty three grade 5 students from a girl school in Tehran assigned to an 8-week intervention of video aided Exercise Imagery. Students were asked to practice according to the CD of imagery at least 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week. The outcomes of interest were psycho-physical variables including appearance, activity, Health, global physical and global esteem measured by PSDQ (physical self description questionnaire).

Results

Subjects scores increased on Health dimension, global esteem and activity measures significantly (p < 0.05). Students rated on appearance and global physical dimensions which showed an increase trend but not statistical significantly.

Conclusion

E-learning could be utilized as an effective media for physical education in female students. The results will facilitate capacity in specialists to apply the e-learning as an effective media for interventions in female mental health issues.
Nature of fears at the time of abortion and possible correlation to anxiety and depression
Authors: Makó H.Sz. , Veszprémi B. , Várhegyi L. , Mészáros N.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Abortion exerts its effects on psychological wellbeing of a great number of women all over the world. Numerous psychological research deals with describing normative responses to the intervention and determining possible psychopathological outcomes.

Objectives

Our aim was to justify whether women differ from one another already at the time of the intervention in terms of their level of anxiety and the degree of depression, which might correlate primarily to the difficulties regarding the process of making the decision for abortion and to the nature of their fears.

Methods

In our research at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinics at University of Pécs, 112 women (average age: 29.67, ranging 18–44) having had abortion were studied using structured interviews and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (Zigmond & Snaith, 1983).

Results

With respect to whether they have reported fear, the research sample could be divided in two groups: 18% have not reported any fear, whereas regarding the remaining 82% some sort of fear was identified by contents analysis, such as fear of later complications (26%), fear of the invasive intervention (22%), fear of both above (15%) and fear of death (19%). The level of anxiety was significantly higher in the group reporting fears at the time of the intervention. The highest anxiety and depression levels were measured in the groups reporting fears of both invasive intervention and later complications, and in the group experiencing fears of death.

Conclusion

Our results draw attention to the significance of the psychological preparation prior to termination.
Evaluation of the frequency of premenstrual dysphoric disorder and premenstrual syndrome in students of girls’ high schools of Kermanshah-Iran
Authors: Tatari F. , Torkamani F. , Shakeri J. , Rezaie M. , Hosseini M. , Amirian M. , Amirian F.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Many women in fertile period of their lives experience some mental and physical symptoms that begin on 7–10 days before menses and cease after bleeding. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are the terms to indicate these symptoms. The prevalence of PMS has been estimated to be about40% to70%, PMDD has lower prevalence.

Objective

This study has evaluated the frequencies of PMS and PMDD along with related factors in students of girls’ high schools in Kermanshah.

Methods

In this descriptive-analytic study, 800 students of girls’ high schools were chosen by incidentally and clustery sampling. Everyone who was volunteer included in the study. Excluding criteria were: history of depression; medical illnesses like epilepsy, meningitis, encephalitis, heart diseases…; history of consumption of β-blockers or other drugs of heart diseases, Phenobarbitals, and anticonvulsants. The diagnosis was made according to DSM.IV.TR. The data was processed using SPSS software, version 11.5, and by descriptive and analytic statistical methods.

Results

1.

The frequencies of PMS and PMDD were 41.5% and 9.4% respectively.

2.

The disorder was more frequent in students older than 16 years-old.

3.

Mood symptoms were the most frequent, followed by physical and behavioral symptoms respectively.

4.

There was lower frequency of the disorder in students whose mothers were high educated.

5.

The frequency of PMS was higher in those with positive family history.

Conclusion

The high frequencies of PMS and PMDD which result to problems in education of students need serious considerations to elevate mental health of students and to refer the severe cases to specialized centers.
Detecting postnatal common mental disorders in Addis ababa, ethiopia: Validation of the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale and kessler scales
Authors: Tesfaye M. , Hanlon C. , Wondimagegn D. , Alem A.
Published: May 2011

Background

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) has been used successfully across diverse cultural settings. However, a recent study found poor validity in detecting postnatal common mental disorders (CMD) in rural Ethiopia. Using similar methodology, the study was replicated in the capital, Addis Ababa.

Methods

Semantic, content and criterion validity of EPDS, Kessler scale-6 (K6) and Kessler scale-10 (K10) were assessed in postnatal women attending vaccination clinics. Criterion validation was undertaken on 100 postnatal women, with local psychiatrist diagnosis of CMD using the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS) as the criterion measure.

Results

The areas under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUROC) curve for the EPDS, K6 and K10 were 0.85 (95%CI 0.77–0.92), 0.86 (95%CI 0.76–0.97) and 0.87 (95%CI 0.78–0.97), respectively. The EPDS generated sensitivity, specificity and misclassification rates of 78.9%, 75.3% and 24.0%, respectively at an optimal cut-off point of 6/7. The corresponding values for the K6 were 84.2%, 82.7% and 17.0% at a cut-off point of 4/5, and for K10 were 84.2%, 77.8% and 21.0% at a cut-off point of 6/7, respectively. The internal reliability Cronbach's alpha for the EPDS, K6 and K10 were 0.71, 0.86 and 0.90, respectively.

Limitations

Not all postnatal women bring their infants to vaccination clinics which may limit generalisability.

Conclusion

The EPDS, K6 and K10 all demonstrated acceptable clinical utility as screening scales for postnatal CMD in an urban setting in Ethiopia. The marked urban-rural difference in EPDS performance within Ethiopia highlights the difficulty of applying urban-validated instruments to rural settings in LAMIC.
Efficacy of cognitive behaviour group therapy with Portuguese breast cancer survivors
Authors: Torres A. , Pereira A. , Monteiro S.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Breast Cancer is the most frequent cause of death by cancer in Women. Therefore Breast Cancer is a priority of the Portuguese Health Ministry. Mental illness, as Depression, is also a priority of that Ministry and breast cancer presents higher psychopathology comorbidity than general population. These both facts emphasize the relevance of the studies about interventions to promote mental health of Portuguese breast cancer women. Simultaneously, there are little studies about the applicability and efficiency of Cognitive Behavior Group Therapy in the European context and in Portugal in particular.

Objectives

We purpose to develop a group cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) program to breast cancer survivors and implement it in a Portuguese group.

Methods

After a proper review of cognitive behavior group therapy programs to oncologic patients, we will adapt them to the Portuguese population. Then, a study will be made with a group of breast cancer survivors. We intent to assess them before and after the therapy in respect to the following psychological variables: self-concept, optimism, coping, quality of life and psychopathology.

Results

We expect to improve the knowledge about the applicability of Cognitive Behavior Group Therapy in Portuguese (and European) context.

Conclusions

In sum, we expect to contribute with efficient psychological interventions to Breast Cancer Women survivors, in respect to self-concept, optimism, coping, quality of life and psychopathology.
Alcoholic disease in the female population
Authors: Vukadinovic S. , Zivlak - Radulović N. , Mitrovic A. , Stojanovic Z.
Published: May 2011

Specificity of alcoholism between men and women caused by the numerous cultural, historical and socio-economic factors. Female alcoholism has recently growing problem. It is believed that the number of women alcoholics is growing faster than the overall increase in the number of alcoholics.

Purpose

To show the presence of alcohol consumption in women and factors (age, sex, marital status, school ready, mid-life) that have an impact on the very spread of disease.

Method

Data were used from the medical records of patients treated at the Clinic for Psychiatry. As a source of data used are dedicated questionnaires designed for adults.

Results

From total of 185 patients hospitalized women occasionally drink 45% (81 patients), not drinking response was 31%(57), tried alcohol was 18.4% (34) and 5.6% of them (10) gave a response to daily consume alcoholic beverages.

The ratio of men and women who consume alcohol is 1:5.

Discussion

Many epidemiological studies of alcohol-induced problems, saying in principle that women drink less than men. Knowledge of alcoholism fifty years ago saying that the ratio of men to women alcoholics was 1:10, and twenty years ago 1:7, to the last ten years, epidemiological studies have shown that women are increasingly drinking and that the ratio is 1:3,5.

Conclusion

The biggest group treated alcoholic women which was occasionally consumed alcohol at the age of 30 to 45 years, about 31.57%, 39.32% of single women and highly educated women 48.92%.The largest percentage had elderly women 1.84%, low educated 1.2% and widow 1.12%.
Shared care between specialised psychiatric services and primary care - the experiences and expectations of consultant psychiatrists in Ireland
Authors: Agyapong V.O.I. , Conway C. , Guerandel A. , O’Connell F.
Published: May 2011

Objective

The study aims to explore the views of consultant psychiatrists in Ireland on shared care between specialist psychiatric services and primary care.

Methods

A self-administered questionnaire was posted to all 470 consultant psychiatrists working in Ireland. Self addressed envelopes were included for the return of completed questionnaires. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA

Results

213 questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 45%. 47.9% of the respondents were male and 52.1% were female. Over all, 91% of respondents reported that they would support a general policy on shared care between primary care and specialised psychiatric services for patients who are stable on their treatment. However, 85% reported that they foresaw difficulties for patients in implementing such a policy, including: increased financial burden on some patients (66%), lack of adequate allied health professionals resources in primary care (60%) and GP's not adequately trained to provide psychiatric care (52%). Most psychiatrists did not feel comfortable to transfer the care of patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder to their GP's and Child psychiatrists were significantly less comfortable than other psychiatrists to discharge patients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Alcohol Dependency Syndrome and Personality Disorder into the care of GP's after they have been stabilised in their medication.

Conclusion

Although most psychiatrists in Ireland would support a policy of shared care, they identify several constraints which would currently hamper the effective implementation of a policy of active collaboration between primary care and specialised psychiatric services in Ireland.
Shared care between specialized psychiatric services and primary care - the experiences and expectation of primary care physicians in Ireland
Authors: Agyapong V.O.I. , Conway C. , Jabber F. , Guerandel A. , O’Connell F.
Published: May 2011

Objective

The study aims to explore the views of primary care physicians in Ireland on shared care of psychiatric patients between primary and secondary services.

Methods

A self-administered questionnaire was posted to a random cross-section primary care physicians working in Ireland. Data were compiled and analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance.

Results

145 out of 300 questionnaires were returned giving a response rate of 48%. Overall, 77.9% of respondents reported that they completed a psychiatric rotation as part of their general practice training. Most General Practitioners expressed confidence in their ability to recognize and manage psychiatric disorders in primary care (on a confidence scale of 1 to 5, mean was 3.97, SD 0.699). There was a statistically, significant difference in confidence scores between those who had took a rotation in psychiatry as part of their GP training and those who did not, with the former reporting higher scores (4.04 vs. 3.72, F = 1.801, t = 2.363, p = 0.02)Regarding shared care, 95.8% of GPs were in favour of a formal shared care policy; however 42.8% expressed reservations regarding the implications of implementing such a policy. The most frequently expressed concerns related to the lack of resources in primary care for psychiatric patients (55.9%), financial implications for some patients (48.3%), and concern over communication with psychiatric services (42%).

Conclusion

The majority of Primary Care physicians in Ireland would support a policy of shared care of psychiatric patients’; however they raise some concerns regarding practical implications of such a policy.
The effects of Ascorbic acid on morphine withdrawal symptoms in rats
Authors: Alijarahi A. , Amini M. , Esmaeili M.H.
Published: May 2011

Background

Recent studies indicate that the glutamatergic and Dopaminergic systems are also involved in morphine tolerance and dependence on morphine and in morphine withdrawal syndrome. Ascorbic acid (ascorbate) which is an antioxidant vitamin released from glutamatergic neurons and modulate the synaptic action of dopamine and glutamate as well as behavior. Since Ascorbate modulate the synaptic action of dopamine and glutamate, in this study the effect of Ascorbate on morphine withdrawal syndrome in rats has been investigated.

Objective

to determine the effects of Ascorbic acid on morphine withdrawal syndrome.

Methods

30 Male rats (250–300 gr) were tested in this study in two group, The first group as the control group received 3% sucrose in tap water(n = 6) and the second group as the dependent group received morphine (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 mg/ml each one for 48 h, and 0.4 mg/ml remaining days to 21st days) and 3% sucrose in tap water (n = 24) , this group divided in to 4 sub groups: ((1) morphine group, [2,3,4] morphine-Ascorbic acid groups which received AA (100,500,1000 mg/kg I.P) every 48h and in the end (21st day) 30 min before naloxone administration for evaluation effects of AA on withdrawal signs.

Finding

Our results show that: Ascorbate (100, 500, 1000 mg/kg I.P) can greatly attenuates most of morphine withdrawal syndrome(but not all) dose dependently.
Depression, anxiety and multiple sclerosis: Links with alexithymia
Authors: Aloulou J. , Hachicha C. , Masmoudi R. , Boukhris A. , Mhiri C. , Amami O.
Published: May 2011

The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety in a population of patients treated for multiple sclerosis (MS) and their link with alexithymia.

Method

31 patients with MS according to McDonald's criteria, and followed in neurology department took part in the study. All patients were evaluated using a protocol to collect the epidemiological, clinical and evolution of the disease. We used versions of Arabized-Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) to assess the mood state and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) for alexithymia.

Results and comments

Participants were divided on 18 women and 13 men with a mean age of 39 years. The prevalence of depression and anxiety were 42% and 52% respectively. The prevalence of alexithymia was 43%. The anxiety was correlated with the degree of disability and age of disease onset. Similarly, depression was more frequently observed in patients with higher EDSS, a long period of evolution. A positive correlation was found between alexithymia, depression and anxiety.

Our study showed that half of all MS patients have mood disorders. However, depression is the most common and most disabling psychiatric disorder in MS. The place of anxiety should not be neglected because in case of comorbidity with depression, can be an aggravating factor. The frequency of alexitymia is high and appears to be positively correlated with depression and anxiety.
Frequent attenders at a primary care clinic: Occasional or regular abusers?
Authors: Ascari A. , Ferrari S. , Andreoli M. , Peggi M. , Rigatelli M.
Published: May 2011

Background

Frequent attendance in general practice is known for being associated with certain socio-demographical characteristics (female sex and middle-old age) and with important medical-psychiatric morbidity. Moreover, it has a high impact on workload of GPs. However, we have poor literature about long-term studies on Frequent Attenders (FAs) and persistent FAs.

Objectives

To re-evaluate a group of patients of FAs after nine years since first assessment; to determine the existence of others FAs and possible differences between persistent and occasional FAs.

Methods

Consultation of computerized data on 168 patients between 2001 and 2009; interwiew to the GP and the assistant.

Setting

A primary health care center in Fiorano Modenese (Modena, Northern Italy).

Patients

56 persistent FAs, 56 occasional FAs, 56 non FAs.

Main outcome results: Twenty-eight of 40 patients (70%) evaluated in 2001 were found to be persistent FAs, most frequently older women. Medical morbidity was frequent among persistent FAs, and intermediate among occasional FAs, while psychiatric morbidity does not show important differences between the two groups; however, depression was present in 46% of persistent FAs and in 41% of occasional FAs, while somatization only in occasional FAs (10%), and not among persistent FAs. Persistent FAs received more prescriptions for all types of drugs, while among the occasional FAs the requests for a psychiatric treatment were higher.

Conclusions

The phenomenon of frequent attendance has a large amount and claims for further studies. Psychiatric morbidity between persistent and occasional FAs might have different expressions, requiring different clinical approaches to be specifically tailored.
Service users’ satisfaction in an acute adult psychiatric care unit- a qualitative survey
Authors: Badshah S.F. , Senaratne M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Service users’ satisfaction survey adds an important consumer perspective to the evaluation of various services and treatment progression. In fact survey may be the only means for clients to express their views about the improvement required in the existing services and the new services that are needed or developed.

Aim

To ascertain the service users’ views admitted to a large acute adult psychiatric care unit.

Methodology

We conducted a qualitative survey of service users’ views by using a questionnaire specifically designed to assess their views of the service they received from the Acute in patient care team in a secondary care hospital. The questionnaire was distributed to all service users in the unit prior to their discharge during the period from 1st November to 31st December 2009.

Results

Results show that the majority of service users have overall satisfaction with the performance of the acute inpatient care team.

Some of the positive comments made were about the team members being extremely helpful, understanding, committed, highly trained and safe environment. Service users’ responses suggested some improvements to the service such as shorter gaps between reviews, quicker liaison with other agencies, awareness among the nursing and allied staff regarding confidentiality and provision of information leaflets.

Conclusion

These findings could be further strengthened by conducting a validated questionnaire on larger sample and can be extremely helpful in planning future services
Estimation of cerebral perfusion among patients with eating disorders, anxiety and depressive disorders
Authors: Banaś A. , Lass P.
Published: May 2011

Objective

Assessment of the cerebral blood perfusion among patients with eating (ED), anxiety (AD) and depressive disorders (DD), diagnosed according to ICD-10.

Method

57 female and 22 male, aged 17–50 were examined using the Single Photon Emission Computer Tomography (SPECT) and the neuropsychological tests, Benton and Bender. We also used the Beck Depression Inventory, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Spielberger Self-Evaluation Questionnaire. Electroencephalography was also performed.

Result

In ED, hypoperfusion occurred in 84.21%, and impairment of the central nervous system (CNS), was found in 27.77%, abnormalities in the electroencephalography - in 33.33% of the patients. In AD, hypoperfusion occurred in 72.72%, impairment of CNS - in 40%, abnormalities in EEG - in 48% of patients. In DD, hypoperfusion occurred in 81.48%, impairment of CNS - in 34.61%, abnormalities in EEG - in 38.46% of patients.

Conclusions

Hypoperfusion was observed mostly among patients with ED, mainly in the frontal, parietal areas, and in the thalamus, on the left hand side, similar to DD group. Among patients with AD, hypoperfusion at the left hand side occurred almost three times more frequently than among patients with DD (Chi2 = 6.54, p < .025). Anxiety as a trait was the highest in ED, but not significant. Among patients with AD, anxiety as a trait and as a state were almost at the same level.
Beliefs of nurses working in Mental Health and Illnesses Hospitals in Turkey toward mental ilnesses
Authors: Çam M.O. , Baysan Arabacı L.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

This research was carried out in order to determine the beliefs of nurses working in eight Mental Health and Illnesses Hospitals related to Ministry of Health in Turkey toward mental illnesses.

Method

This descriptive research was carried out by 650 participant nurses working in eight hospitals between the dates January-March 2009. Data were collected by “Descriptive Information Form” and “Beliefs Toward Mental Illness Scale(BMIS)” based on self-report. In evaluation of data, number-percentage distribution was done and the relationship between the variables was examined by t-test and variance analysis.

Findings

Average age of the nurses, most of whom were women (79.8%), was 34.48 ± 7.54. 86.3% of the nurses stated that they didn’t have any extensive course about psychiatry during their education, while 74.2% of the nurses, 33.4% of whom were Health Vocational High School graduates, stated that they had courses about phychiatry. BMIS point average of the nurses was found as 60.16 ± 14.83(Min:0- Max:105). A statistically meaningful relationship was found between the nurses’ hospitals they worked in, positions they worked, being satisfied from working for psychiatry, feeling safe while working for psychiatry, finding the working enviroment safe, having course about psychiatry during their education, having education about psychiatry after graduation and BMIS point average(p < 0.05).

Result

The research results showed that the nurses working in Mental Health and Illnesses Hospital in Turkey and giving care to individuals with mental disorders had negative attitudes toward mental illnesses. It was determined that the nurses, who had education about pyschiatry during their education or after their graduation, had more positive attitudes toward mental illnesses.
Skin Picking in Turkish students
Authors: Calıkusu C. , Kucukgoncu S. , Bestepe E.
Published: May 2011

Skin picking (SP) behavior is characterized by repetitive episodes of scratching or picking skin causing significant tissue damage, functional deterioration and severe distress.

The aim of this study was to investigate the SP frequency in and SP characteristics of the Turkish student population.

Methods

All participants, 270 students, were selected from different universities in Turkey between March 2010 and January 2010. Twenty-five students (9.2%) were excluded because of missing information. One hundred fourty-five (59.2%) of the participants were female, 100 (40.8%) were male and mean age was 22.02 ± 2.1.

All participants were assessed by Skin Picking Inventory, Skin Picking Impact Scale and Skin Picking Scale which were translated to Turkish by the authors.

Descriptive statistical methods were utilized for SP frequency and characteristics. Chi square analysis was utilized for distributional analyses.

Results

Two hundred fifteen students (87.8% of total participants) endorsed engaging in SP. One hundred seven participants (43.6%) reported recurrent SP episodes defined as one or more daily SP episodes, with an estimated daily SP time of more than 5 minutes. Thirty (12.2%) students engaged in SP despite lack of any dermatological problems and felt significantly distressed, functionally impaired and had tissue damage. There was no significant difference between females and males regarding the frequency of SP (Women n = 16, 11.0%; Men n = 14, 14.0%; X2 = 0.484, p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study showed that SP is a common behavior in Turkish student population. The literature on SP behavior in student populations is limited and there is need for further research on this topic.