bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1940 – Hyponatraemia And Depression In Later Life, The Need For Electrolyte Monitoring?
Authors: O’Donnell C. , Cowley C. , McCarthy G.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Hyponatraemia is an important medical condition, relevant to all practitioners working in old age psychiatry. This has important clinical implications to ensure patients commenced on antidepressant medication are monitored for electrolyte imbalance.

Aims & objectives

To identify the incidence and key features of cases of hyponatraemia in consecutive referrals to a rural community Psychiatry of Old Age service (population 18,000 over 65)

Methodology

Naturalistic study design, routine referrals to the service were reviewed between 1/4/10 to 30/9/2011 and considered for inclusion. All hyponatraemia cases were identified and recorded at the MDT meeting. Clinical case notes and/or correspondence reviewed, data collected on demographics, psychiatric, medical diagnoses, psychotropic and general medication.

Results

796 referrals reviewed, 22 cases of hyponatraemia identified, (2.8%), 15 case notes available for review, 4 review letters (include key information required), 3 casenotes were missing and 2 did not meet inclusion criteria as outside the period of study. Of the 17 included (12 female, 5 male), mean age was 82.1, all widowed/ single, 94% diagnosis of depression, 5 dual diagnoses, Mean MMSE 26/30. 100% on psychotropic medication, (87% antidepressants, 58% SSRI's). Mean medication number was 9. 6/17 (35%) cases of hyponatraemia were judged to be directly related to SSRI medication.

Conclusion

Hyponatraemia is an important clinical outcome that should be looked for in vulnerable populations with complex medical and psychiatric morbidity. Although many potential causes for hyponatraemia, SSRI antidepressants should be monitored with regular electrolytes in at risk patients (older age, polypharmacy, medical co-morbidity).
1941 – Depression And Women's Life Cycle:comparative Prevalence Of Depressive Symptons In Women Along The Life Cycle In a Portuguese Community Sample
Authors: Mendes M.S.
Published: July 2013

This study aims to analyze the differences in depressive symptomatology in women in different age groups along the life cycle and the influence of sociodemographic variables in a Portuguese community sample. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Scale-CES-D (Radloff, 1977), and a Questionnaire including questions concerning sociodemographic variables, general health variables and women health variables, as well as interpersonal stress factors were mailed to a sample of 1480 subjects. A phone line was available and local papers asked for collaboration. 360 women aged between 18 and 65 answered it. Severe depressive symptoms were reported by 24,4% of women. Women living in rural areas showed significant higher rates of depressive symptomatology(CES-D mean score=27.2, DP = 14.9)than women living in urban areas (x=19.4, DP = 12.5)(t = 3,1; p = 0.002). It wasn’t found a statistically significant difference between age groups and prevalence of depressive symptomatology. Nevertheless, Menopause was found to be highly related with high levels of depressive symptomatology, and menopausal women have shown a CES-D mean score significantly higher than non-menopausal women (t = 2.7; p = 0.006). Higher prevalence of depressive symtomatology was associated with low income, low educational level and marital status (divorced and widowed). It's possible to assume that is not the age group but the stage of the reproductive women life cycle that seems to be associated with higher prevalence of depressive symtomatology.Given the high levels of severe depressive symptomatology in women found, we argue that preventing depression in women should be a priority and reducing depressive symtomatology should be targeted for research and prevention efforts.
1944 – HMGB1 Danger Signaling Modulates t Cells Phenotype And Cytokine Profile In Response To Redox Status In Depressed Patients. An Effect On Glucocorticoid Receptor Function
Authors: Rybka J. , Kedziora-Kornatowska K. , Kupczyk D. , Kedziora J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

We aimed to study HMGB1, pro- and antioxidant status alongside with T cells phenotype and Th1 and Th17 proinflammatory cytokine profiles in depressed patient. We also investigated the glucocorticoid response.

Methods

Blood was collected from patients diagnosed with recurrent depressive disorder (rDD) (N = 15) and from healthy controls (N = 19). We measuredplasma hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as well as SOD1, GPx, GR activities in red blood cells. HO1 and NOX4 levels in plasma were also assayed. IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IFN-g, TNF-a, IL-17, HMGB1, neopterin and cortisol were analyzed in sera. Further, we examined surface phenotype expression of T regulatory and T effector cells with flow cytometer. The glucocorticoid response was measured by dexamethasone-induced inhibition of IL-6 produced by LPS-stimulated peripheral blood.

Results

We observed pro- and antioxidant imbalance in depressed patients expressed by significant changes in the enzyme activities, increased MDA, decreased GSH, increased H2O2. Shifted Th1/Th17 cytokine ratios, increased Treg/Teffector cells ratio and increased levels of neopterin were also detected. Moreover, we revealed a distinct role of HMGB1 in maintaining cytokine and Treg/Teffector cells balance in depressed patients. HMGB1 remained also in relation with oxidant potential of the blood. The important role of IL-17 and inhibitory effect of MDA on glucocorticoids response was also revealed.

Conclusions

Strong immunomodulatory role of HMGB1 might be related to the change of its activity caused by redox imbalance in depressed patients. The shifted immune balance alongside with prooxidative environment modulates glucocorticoid response in these patients.
1945 – Paraphrenia: Nosography And Phenomenology
Authors: Widakowich C. , Snacken J.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Paraphrenia was one of the last great inventions of classical psychiatry. Both the French school as the German school, have strongly discussed and tracked this clinical entity which is an intermediate form between paranoia and schizophrenia. First originally by Kahlbaum and then described by Kraepelin, the term will fall into oblivion after the appearance of the manual diagnosis DSM III, which will be listed under concepts so various as schizophrenia or delusional disorder chronic.

Method

Presenting a case report of paraphrenia, we discuss around its nosography classification, its clinical presentation, its evolutionary process and possible differential diagnoses.

Aims

We ask ourselves whether current standardized textbooks, it is still possible to observe this rich clinical entity.
1948 – Chilhood Onset Schizophrenia: Epidemiological And Clinical Preliminary Findings From a French Population-based Study
Authors: Dor-Nedonsel E. , Maria F. , Tosello A.-L. , Battista M. , Thümmler S. , Boublil M. , Messana M. , Poinso F. , Salle-Colmiche X. , Iakimova G. , Fontas E. , Askenazy F.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Childhood-onset schizophrenia (COS) is a rare but severe psychiatric disorder with important individual, family and societal consequences. Its prevalence is approximately 2 per 10.000 in the general population and the incidence of COS increases with age.

Objectives

The main objective of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of COS in French medical-social institutions or psychiatric day hospitals for children and adolescents in the PACA region. The secondary objectives were:

(1)

to estimate the prevalence of children with both COS and autism diagnosis,

(2)

to characterize clinical and neurocognitive presentation of COS using the evaluation of intensity of positive and negative symptoms (PANSS, SANS), of thought disorganization (TLC), of cognitive functioning, and of attention and executive functions (verbal fluency, TMT A, TMT B).

Methods

Subjects were patients from medical-social and psychiatric care centers for children and adolescents in three PACA sub-regions in the south-east of France. The study included French speaking girls and boys between 7 and 18 years old, registered in a partner structure of the study, and presenting an IQ > 35 (WISC-IV). The study design was constituted by two phases: the first one was the categorical diagnostic phase using the psychosis section of the Kiddie-SADS Present and Lifetime Version. The second phase consisted of the dimensional COS diagnosis and neurocognitive exploration for the subjects fulfilling the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia.

Results

The diagnosis of COS was not exceptional in this population. Most subjects diagnosed with COS also presented autism diagnosis and mental retardation.
1960 – The Evolution Of Old Patients With Chronic Severe Mental Illness Living In Housing Institutions For The Eldery Dependent
Authors: Gauillard J. , Perony A. , Lenoc Soudani M. , Fabreguettes C. , Schreyer C.
Published: July 2013

Following cuts in the number of beds in psychiatric hospitals and general deinstitutionalisation, and thanks to the catchment area policy, people with major psychiatric disorders are not confined inside hospitals anymore. They can live in the community. These severely handicapped patients, mostly psychotic, often have long-term support, which allows them to live with a degree of autonomy. As they grow old, they become more dependent and need appropriate housing that is no longer psychiatric. The staff in nursing homes are often reluctant to deal with these patients who are weighed down by their disease. Besides, there is rarely genuine continuity in terms of support and treatment from local carers.

Through a partnership established several years ago between public institutions dedicated to dependent persons and their local psychiatric teams, guidelines have been devised for a fruitful collaboration and to allow patients often viewed as complicated, to be looked after by gerontology teams who are more familiar with treating dementia.

Over the course of time, therapeutic strategies - such as planned sequential psychiatric hospitalization - have been set up in order to prevent the patient from relapsing, and nursing staff from becoming exhausted. A reflection will be given on the part played by psychiatric teams similar to liaison psychiatry, with long-term assistance and training for gerontology staff.
1961 – HCV As a Traumatic Experience, Ptsd And Quality Of Life
Authors: Morais-de-Jesus M. , Rocha-Leite C.I. , Pettersen K.M. , Daltro-de-Oliveira R. , Dias A.D.D. , Amaral L.D.-D. , Cavalcanti-Ribeiro P. , Santos C.T. , Borges-de-Oliveira R. , Quarantini L.C.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The HCV has been associated with significant impairment of quality of life, irrespective of the degree of liver injury. The association of this disease with psychiatric comorbidities, especially depression, has been well described in the scientific literature. However, despite also significantly affect the quality of life of individuals, the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has not been well studied in this population.

Objective/aim

Evaluate whether individuals perceive the liver disease as a potentially traumatic experience and investigate the impact of PTSD diagnosis on health-related quality of life in hepatitis C virus-infected subjects.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 127 consecutive hepatitis C-infected outpatients. We investigated Traumatic Experiences and the subject's perception about the disease using the Trauma History Questionnaire. PTSD and others psychiatry diagnoses were assessed trough M.I.N.I. PLUS. Quality of life was assessed by the Short-Form 36.

Results

Approximately 38.6% of the patients perceived the hepatitis C as a traumatic experience, 60.7% had PTSD diagnosis. It were no associate with the disease severity (been eligible for transplant), however there was a significant association with diagnosis of PTSD (p = 0.003). Roughly 22% of the sample showed PTSD diagnosis. PTSD imposed a significant impairment in quality of life of individuals in seven of the eight domains in the bivariate and multivariate analysis. This difference remained significant after adjustment for covariates such as major depressive disorder comorbidity.

Conclusion

The results suggest high prevalence of PTSD diagnosis in VHC infected patients and it impose impairment in their quality of life.
1963 – Difficulty In The Psychopharmacological Approach Of Fronto-temporal Dementia- Case Report
Authors: Araújo F. , Falcão de Almeida T. , Rodrigues J.D. , Venâncio A. , Horta A. , Lapa G.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The clinical syndromes related to fronto-temporal lobar degeneration are the second most common cause of pre-senile primary dementia. There are three distinct clinical variants: behavioral-variant fronto-temporal dementia (BvFTD), semantic dementia and progressive non-fluent aphasia. BvFTD is characterized by a significant change in the patients personality and social behavior, and impaired executive function.

Objectives

Review the current literature on both the pharmacologic and nonphar- macologic management of fronto-temporal dementia.

Aims

Brief literature review.

Methods

Case report and literature review.

Results

We describe case of a 65-years-old male with hyperactivity, desinhibition, aggressive, stereotyped and persevering behaviors with continuous walking and changes in eating habits (hyperphagia). He also presented distractibility, poor speech with loss of spontaneity, an indifferent attitude, mental rigidity, inflexibility, and lack of insight for his condition. This condition developed within one year, with a change in his personality and the appearance of an inadequate social conduct, with an insidious onset and gradual progression. He has family history of dementia. Computerized Tomography scan shows lobar fronto-temporal atrophy. During hospitalization no drugs has had effect, apart from paroxetine (partial response).

Conclusion

Concerning therapy, several drugs were used without proved effect in controlling the symptoms, highlighting the difficulty in the psychopharmacological approach of this disorder. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have shown some effect on behavior.
1964 – EMI (equipe Mobile d'intervention), a Mobile Intervention Team, a Means To Facilitate Access To Psychiatric Care
Authors: Perony A. , Baherre J. , Bozec N. , Iliopoulos M. , Jost F. , Gauillard J. , Martinet E.
Published: July 2013

Rapid access to psychiatric care is a major public health issue. It may be reduced by social factors (homelessness), age or the disease itself (psychotic symptoms together with self-isolation, severe social phobia). Concerning the first two factors, mobile teams have been set up throughout Europe in recent years. In the third instance, people knowing the patient (often family, in psychological distress too) notify psychiatric authorities about a person not known to them. An early contact with patients increases their chances of improving, provided treatment can be organized quickly. This also prevents the family becoming exhausted, trying to cope with these psychiatric disorders. Over the past three years, a mobile intervention team (EMI) made home visits to unrecorded patients who were reclusive or had previously refused care. Specific protocolized psychiatric assessment and a clinical, contextualized approach in the patient's daily environment maximize access to care and allow for day-care treatment or hospitalization in better conditions. Organizing public psychiatric care in catchment areas has enabled patients to live outside institutions and has helped develop structures linked to a reference hospital, which allows for follow-up care after a hospital stay. However, entering the system may still be problematic, hence the home visits. Thanks to innovative organization at a time when French psychiatric departments are having their budgets cut, this team provides rapid treatment at home for psychiatric emergencies and facilitates access to care.
1968 – Improving The Retention Rates Of Two Evidence-based Smoking Cessation Trials Designed Through a Participatory Approach
Authors: Wagner F. , Sheikhattari P.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Smoking cessation services targeted for underserved populations usually have lower retention and higher relapse rates.

Objectives/aims

This study reports the results of two consecutive randomized trials aimed at improving smoking cessation rates through better adherence to the intervention plan among residents of low income urban community in the United States.

Methods

We compare the effectiveness of a behavior change and pharmacotherapy intervention across participants in the clinic-based and the community-based interventions. A total of 543 participants were recruited. Participants in both trials received training on smoking cessation for twelve weeks, but the second intervention was delivered by peer motivators and included use of more motivational techniques, based on lessons learned from the first trial using principles of a participatory approach.

Results

The smoking cessation rate in the first trial was relatively low (i.e., quit rates of about 10%), with a high level of attrition (i.e., only 14% attended 6-12 sessions). Preliminary data show a very significant increase in the proportion of participants in second trial who quitted smoking, as compared to participants in the first trial (OR=4.4; 95%CI= 2.4, 8.3; P< 0.001) with significantly higher level of retention rate (53%).

Conclusion

Community based smoking cessation programs in underserved communities can be more successful if they include proper incentives to retain participants and are supported by community organizations. The process of how the new intervention is informed by the previous trial will be described with special attention to a new incentive program that includes non-monetary club membership awards and status.
1969 – Psychopathological Representation And Treatment In Asperger's Syndrome In Polish Out-patients
Authors: Sumiła A. , Buczny J. , Burkiewicz A.
Published: July 2013

Asperger's Syndrome often comorbid with depression, anxiety, seizures, sleep problems, ADHD, OCD, and oppositional disorder. Pharmacological interventions are used because of particular symptoms. The purpose of the study was to evaluate symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome and treatment rendered according to patient's age.

The goal was to advance a comprehensive understanding of changing symptoms in Asperger Syndrome during life and choosing medications in situations of comorbidity.

The subject group consisted of 72 patients aged 5-45 (mean age = 13.90, SD = 6.75) diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome according ICD-10. Symptoms were estimated with the Australian Scale for Asperger's Syndrome (ASAS, reliability α = .81), BPRS-C (α = .77), BPRS (α = .77), CGI-S (single-item scale), CGI-I (single-item scale).

There were no differences in psychopathological symptoms of Asperger's Symptoms in subgroups aged 5-12 (51.4% all patients), 13-18 (30.6% all patients), above 18 (18.1% all patients) (ANOVA, F(2, 69) < 1, p = .857). The mean score in ASAS correlated with the mean score in BPRS-C/BPRS and CGI-S (r = .36 p = 0.031). There was no differences in the mental state between age groups (5-12 vs. 13-18 vs. above 18 years old), (2, 69) = 2.75, p = .110. Most often the comorbidity was Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (observed in 51% of patients). Polipharmacotherapy depended on the mean score in ASAS and was indifferent on age, χ2(12) = 13.08, p = .367.

Mental state, comorbidity, and medications were connected with social and emotional abilities and specific interests in ASAS indifferent on age.
1974 – Integrative Model Of Psychoeducation In The Treatment Of Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Kozhyna G. , Korostiy V. , Gaichuk L.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The fight against discrimination and stigmatization of consumers of mental health services is a priority for the WHO and WPA. The purpose of the psychoeducation - destigmatisation of mental disorder and mental health care, an understanding of the society daily living of the consumers of psychiatric care and their families.

Objective

Comprehensive survey of 97 patients with schizophrenia in a period of stabilization. The main group - 67 patients in whom therapy used psychopharmacotherapy, psychoeducation and training. Control - 30 patients receiving psychopharmacotherapy.

Aims

To estimate the effectiveness of psychoeducational programs in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

Trainings were conducted in closed groups, the number of participants from 6 to 12 people. Each cycle consisted of 12 psychoeducation sessions lasting 2.0 hours with a frequency of 2 times per week. In our work we used an integrative model of psychoeducation includes information modules, techniques of cognitive-behavioral therapy, problem-oriented discussion, family therapy.

Results

Analysis of the dynamics of social functioning and quality of life of patients with schizophrenia before and after psychoeducation showed that they increased in the intervention group significantly greater and more sustained than in the control group, especially in areas such as the general welfare, health, performance, family relationships and social contacts.

Conclusions

Psychoeducation not only increases the volume of knowledge increases confidence in combating the disease, but it solves the problem of social reintegration of the patient.
1982 – Depression In Childhood And Adolescence - Family System From The Clinical Perspective
Authors: Sumiła A. , Radziwiłłowicz W.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The description of clinical features of depression among children and adolescents in clinical research still remains insufficient. Better understanding of the family system and home relationships can contribute to the development of high-quality health care services for clinical patients.

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to evaluate children's perceptions of the quality of their parents' relationship and the level of their family systemic resources.

Aims

The goal was to advance a comprehensive understanding of families with children suffering from depression, the depiction of various processes within the family, and ultimately, attempt to define the major predictors of depression.

Methods

The subject group consisted of 46 children and adolescents aged 9-19 with diagnosed depressive episodes. Symptoms of depression in children and their parents were evaluated with the Beck Depression Inventory. The qualitative assessment was conducted with the use of the Assessment and Documentation of Psychopathology Scale - AMPD.

Results

Clinical group assessed their parents’ marital relationship as lower quality than the control group. Girls diagnosed with depression, perceived their parents’ relationship as more dysfunctional (t = 5,87; p < 0,01). A higher rate of commitment in the relationships of parents with depressed children coexisted with a higher rate of depression in their mothers (r = -0,40; p < 0,05).

Conclusions

Depression in children and adolescents is connected with negative representation of parent - child and marital relationships and the systemic resources of the family as various sources of emotional security for the child.
1984 – Burnout Syndrome And Quality Of Life Among Intensivists Physicians Residents In Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Andrade-Mascimento M. , Barros D.S. , Nascimento Sobrinho C.L.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

There are few studies on burnout doctors in Brazil.

Objectives/aims

Describe prevalence of the Burnout syndrome in intensive care physicians of Salvador, and evaluate if there are correlation between aspects of Life Quality and the Burnout Syndrome.

Methods

A cross sectional study assessed the correlation between Life Quality and Burnout Syndrome in a population of 333 Intensive Care Physicians from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. An individual, self-report questionnaire evaluated the Life Quality' domains, using the WHOQOL-Bref and their mental health, using the Maslash Burnout Inventory (MBI).

Results

The present study found a Burnout' prevalence of 63,6% (presence of high levels in at least one dimension of Burnout) and 7,4% (presence of high levels on the three dimensions of Burnout) in this population. It was founded a moderate correlation between psychological domain and the emotional exhaustion dimension of the Burnout syndrome (r = - 0,58). Physicians who had high level in anyone of the tree dimension of MBI presented low scores in the domains of the WHOQOLBref indicating association between both variable.

Conclusion

There was a negative correlation between scores in Quality of Life and MBI.
1993 – Evolution Of The Fatigue Impact Scale (fis): a Historical Review
Authors: Pettersen K. , Cavalcanti-Ribeiro P. , Quarantini L.
Published: July 2013

Objectives/aims

To review the historical evolution of the Fatigue Impact Scale (FIS), presenting its main features and modified versions.

Methods

Two independent reviewers performed a search in PubMed for articles, available since the development of the scale until June 2012, looking for those studies that used the FIS or any of its modified versions as an instrument for data collection. The terms used for the search were “Fatigue Impact Scale.” After individual analysis and consensus procedure, 201 articles were selected for the data basis of this study. Data were extracted using standardized forms with the following information: version of the scale, year and country where the study was conducted, the methodological study's design, language in which the scale was applied, and how many patients responded to any one of the versions.

Results

This review found 4 validated modified versions of FIS and 2 reduced forms, in 27 different countries. The largest concentration was in United States, followed by other English-speaking countries. The FIS was the version most commonly used, followed by the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). Approximately 46,483 individuals have been evaluated with one of the versions of FIS in 29 different pathologies. Most of these studies used a cross-sectional design.

Conclusion

The number of studies using the FIS and its modifications has grown substantially. However, this study evaluates methodological limitations which still hinder the synthesis of the scale's performance through meta-analysis. Still, the FIS has been used in relevant studies that contribute to understand fatigue broadly.
1996 – Facticious Disorder With Hallucinations - a Case Report
Authors: Esteves-Pereira M. , Rodrigues D. , Guimarães G. , Bouça J. , Ribeiro-Silva R.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Factitious disorder (FD) is defined by the intentional production or feigning of physical or psychological symptoms with the objective of assuming the patient role. It's frequently difficult to adequately diagnose this disorder when the faked symptoms are those of a psychological or a psychiatric disorder. In these cases, there is often high comorbidity with other mental disorders, thus making it difficult to differentiate between real and factitious symptoms.

Objectives

To present a case-report of FD with hallucinations and a review study regarding the theme available in Medline.

Aim

Brief literature review.

Method

A case report is presented and literature of this theme shortly reviewed.

Results

The case involves a 23-year-old female, a psychology student, born in destructured family. She had attempted suicide many times since she was 16 years old, one of them with high lethality. One month before her admission to our inpatient clinic in order to allow a clear diagnosis to be made, she began active auditory hallucinations, persecutory delusional ideation with disorganized behavior and consequent social isolation. A suitable dose of atypical antipsychotic drug was administered but Psychotic disorder was ruled out and she was dignosed with FD. After the factitious symptoms that prevented any type of therapeutic approach disappeared, the real symptoms of the patient were those characteristic of a borderline personality disorder.

Conclusions

This case emphasizes the need for the careful observation of these patients in order to establish the diagnosis and to improve a specific management strategy for them.
2003 – Dual Diagnosis In a Local Prison In Uk
Authors: Igoumenou A. , Critchlow G.
Published: July 2013

Aims

The prevalence of mental disorder and addiction in any prison population is higher than for the general public. Mental health in-reach and addiction services were developed to treat this complex population. We identified the need to evaluate the service provided in a local prison, and make suggestions for improvement.

Our main aim was to investigate the need for dual diagnosis services in a local male community prison.

Methods

Our data collection tool consisted of five parts;

1)

Demographic Data,

2)

Addiction problems and input received,

3)

Psychiatric diagnosis and input received,

4)

Physical health including medical problems related to substance use

5)

Other comments including risks identified.

The data were collected from the prison's patient record system.

Results

From the 134 inmates that were under the care of the addictions service in January 2012, 26 had a dual diagnosis (19%). From the dual diagnosis population, 24 inmates (92%) were mainly addicted to opiates. The main substitute prescribed was methadone (n=14).

The most common psychiatric diagnoses was schizophrenia (35%) and anxiety disorders, with or without a personality disorder.

Comments

We found a big proportion of the addictions population with a psychiatric diagnosis (19%). As both illnesses can be interlinked and affecting prognosis it is important that we treat both simultaneously. The distinction between addictions and mental health services can bring difficulties in communication and care provided. A dual diagnosis service is therefore needed to assure quality and continuity of care in prison and to assist smooth transition after release.
2005 – Sexual Dysfunction In Patients With Schizophrenia Treated With Antipsychotics
Authors: Mendonça C. , Brás A.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The relationship between sexuality and schizophrenia is complex. The prevalence of sexual dysfunctions is higher in persons with mental disorders and may be related to both the psychopathology and the pharmacotherapy. On one hand the negative symptoms of schizophrenia limit the capability for interpersonal and sexual relationships; on the other hand several mechanisms can cause sexual dysfunction during antipsychotic therapy. Although it is a troublesome side effect, information on antipsychotic-induced sexual dysfunction is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sexual dysfunction and its impact in patients with a psychotic disorder treated with various antipsychotics under routine clinical conditions.

Methods

Subjects included were sexually active male and female patients 18 years of age or older with the diagnosis of Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform disorder, Schizoaffective disorder or other psychotic disorder. In addition to sexual functioning, was recorded demographic data, psychiatric diagnosis and medication history. The instrument of evaluation used was the Pyschotropic-Related Sexual Dysfunction Questionnaire (PRSexDQ-SalSex).

Results

All the analyses were performed in the 101 evaluable patients. Most patients were males (76%) and the most common diagnosis was Schizophrenia.Overall, the patients exhibited sexual dysfunction according to the assessment with the SalSex. Among the patients exhibiting sexual dysfunction, a third reported to have poor tolerance to the disturbance.

Conclusions

Sexual dysfunction is very common in patients receiving long-term treatment with antipsychotics and it is associated with a great impact in a substantial proportion of patients.
2007 – An Item Response Theory Analysis Of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Measured With Two Instruments In 6,733 9/11-exposed Youth
Authors: Geronazzo-Alman L. , Spratt A. , Shen S. , Guffanti G. , Lord E. , Duarte C.S. , Musa G.J. , Wicks J. , Fan B. , Hoven C.W.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Item Response Theory (IRT) allows for dimensional scaling of the severity of a disorder, and comparison of symptoms’ properties across different measures of the same trait and across groups. IRT has never been applied to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Objectives

To determine discrimination and severity parameters of PTSD symptoms measured with two instruments, and to examine gender- and age-related Differential Item Functioning (DIF) of PTSD indicators.

Aims

To inform the dimensional scaling of PTSD in youth.

Methods

IRT was applied to PTSD items measured with the DPS and the PTSD-RI in 6,733 9/11-exposed youths. DIF analysis was performed in the sample stratified by gender and age (8-13; 14-21).

Results

DPS and PTSD-RI items are most informative at intermediate and severe levels of PTSD, respectively. Across instruments, discrimination was greatest for insomnia and nightmares, and lowest for 9/11-related thoughts. Severity parameters were highest for avoidance and numbing symptoms, and lowest for 9/11-related thoughts. The majority of PTSD symptoms showed significant DIF across subgroups.

Conclusion

DPS and PTSD-RI criteria are informative at different levels of PTSD severity. PTSD symptoms differentially discriminate among individuals along the PTSD continuum, and are most informative at different levels of PTSD severity. These results could inform dimensional scaling of PTSD, and allow for flexibility in assigning cut-off points for facilitating clinical decision-making. PTSD criteria do not provide the same information across subgroups defined by gender and age, suggesting that symptoms differ in the way they represent severe post-traumatic stress reactions across groups.
2010 – Mental Illness And Risk Of Violence
Authors: Pereira S. , Garrido P. , Colón M.
Published: July 2013

In Forensic Psychiatry, the expert is often asked to comment on the risk of violence in a patient with mental illness. The classical patterns of relationship between crime and mental illness include the response to psychotic symptoms,“compulsive desires” and personality disorder (impulsivity, intolerance to frustration, antisocial behaviors, …).

Over the decades, there have been changes, and nowadays it is assumed that: there is a relationship between mental illness and violence, the majority of psychiatric patients is not violent, violent behaviors occur usually in acute episodes, the greatest risk of violence in these patients is the occurrence of co-morbidity with alcohol and drugs.

The aim of this retrospective study is to describe the pattern of the relationship between mentall illness and violence, in subjects who may have committed a crime and were submitted to a forensic assessment, in the Central Region of Portugal in 2011. To achieve this aim, we consulted the reports of Forensic Psychiatric expertises, from the Center Delegation (Coimbra) of the National Institute Forensic Medicine.

Following variables were collected: gender, age, marital status, education, occupation, residence, type of crime, kind of victim, previous psychiatric diagnosis, prior psychiatric follow-up, previous psychiatric hospitalization, prior violent acts, existence of psychopharmacological treatment when the crime occured, psychopathology found during the forensic evaluation, existence of comorbid substance use, maladaptive personality traits or diminished IQ. Data analysis was performed with SPSS and Student ‘s t-test.

Our results are in concordance with the available data regarding the weighting factors in assessing the risk of violence.
2013 – Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Individually-based And Family-based Treatments For Internalizing, Externalizing, And Family Symptoms In Hispanic Youth
Authors: Santisteban D. , Mena M. , McCabe B.
Published: July 2013

An RCT was conducted to test Culturally Informed and Flexible Family Treatment for Adolescents (CIFFTA) to an individuallyoriented treatment (TAU) in modifying Internalizing and Externalizing symptoms, and family conflict. CIFFTA integrates individual, family, and psycho-educational interventions using an adaptive approach to tailor the treatment to unique client characteristics. One hundred-thirty Hispanic adolescents 11–14 years of age were randomly assigned to 16 weeks of treatment. A pre-post design (4 month post baseline) was used. Parent reports are highlighted here. Adolescents showed similar change.

Retention in Treatment: Participants in CIFFTA had about twice the odds of being retained as those in TAU, χ2 (1, N = 169) = 4.02, p = .045, OR = 2.15.

Change in Family Conflict: There were significant Time, F(1, 131) = 140.43, p < .001, and Time × Condition, F(1, 131) = 4.12, p = .042, effects. Parents reported reductions in both conditions but effects were greater in CIFFTA.

Change in Externalizing Symptoms: There was a significant Time effect, F(1, 135) = 109.83, p < .001, but no Time × Condition effect, F(1, 135) = 0.42, p = .518. Parents reported moderate-to-large decreases in externalizing problems in both conditions. Change in Internalizing Symptoms: There were significant Time, F(1, 135) = 110.08, p < .001, and Time × Condition effects, F(1, 135) = 5.12, p = .025. Parents reported moderate-to-large decreases in depression in both conditions but were larger for TAU.

The clinical and research implications of this research will be presented along with some preliminary results of tests of mediation.
2015 – Impulsivity And Stress As Risk Factors For The Development Of Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Marin Mayor M. , Verdura Vizcaino E. , Codesal Julian R.A. , Lopez Alvarez J. , Rubio Valladolid G.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

It is well known that impulsivity and stress are risk factors for the development of addictive disorders, and more specifically alcohol dependence. Impulsivity has two dimensions: behavioural inhibition and delay of reward. The Fear- Conditioning paradigm of the Startle response (SR), which refers to the potentiation of the startle amplitude after the exposure to aversive stimulus, can be used as a stress test. The aim of this study was to explore the correlation between impulsivity laboratory tasks and the Fear-Conditioning (FC) paradigm of the SR as risk factors for the development of alcohol dependence.

Methods

The sample included 40 abstinent alcoholic men, who met DSM-IV criteria for Alcohol Dependence and had been abstinent for at least one month. Impulsivity was assessed using two laboratory tests: Stop-Signal Task (SST) and Differential Reinforcement for Low-Rate Responding (DRL6). The FC paradigm of the SR was used as a stress test. Patients were compared to 40 matched controls.

Results

We found a positive correlation between SST tasks and the FC paradigm of the SR (p < 0,05) and a negative correlation between the DRL6 tasks and the FC paradigm of the SR (p < 0,05) in the patient's group. This significant correlation was not found in controls.

Conclusions

Impulsivity and stress are significantly correlated in alcohol dependent patients. This means that while healthy subjects cope with stress, alcohol dependent patients react with higher impulsivity when they are exposed to stress situations and this could lead them to drink alcohol to relieve anxiety and depressive symptoms.
2017 – Clinical And Socio-demographic Characteristics Of College Students In The Northeast Of Brazil Exposed To Traumatic Experiences: a Prevalence Census Study Protocol
Authors: Netto L.R. , Quarantini L.D.C. , Pereira J.L. , Feitosa J.R. , Pettersen K.M. , Duarte A. , Loureiro A. , Mundim D. , Santana R. , Albuquerque I. , Barbosa R.
Published: July 2013

Background

Adolescence and early adulthood are the most vulnerable period of life for exposure to traumatic experiences (70% of their deaths are due to external causes). The Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterized by dysfunctional symptoms that cause distress or social, academic and occupational impairment, and results from exposure to a traumatic stressor. There is no consensus in the literature about why some individuals experience PTSD after traumatic events and not others. The aim of this multicentre study is to describe clinical and socio-demographic characteristics and academic performance in college student's population in the Northeast of Brazil, identifying traumatic experiences exposure patterns, and investigating the impulsivity's influence in the development of PTSD, as well as the impact of early traumatic experiences in vulnerability or resilience in this population.

Methods/design

2282 subjects completed the protocol between April and July 2011 in a sample census of seven (public and private) college institutions in three metropolitan regions of the Brazilian Northeast, aiming to cover different academic areas (exact, biological, humanities /arts). All students aged 18 or older, enrolled and attending to the first and last theoretical period were eligible, and accessed by previously trained researchers. The self applied protocol consisted of socio-demographic questionnaire and validated scales of: Impulsivity (BIS-11), PTSD (PCL-C) and Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ). Data were entered into SPSS 15.0. Prevalence Ratio and Logistic Regression technique will be used to analyze the association between dependent and independent variables of the study, that was approved by Bahia and Paraiba's ethics committees.
2019 – Case Report: Comorbidity Of Malignant Forms Of Anorexia Nervosa And Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Authors: Stipčević M. , Godan B.J. , Marčinko D.
Published: July 2013

Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder with a prevalence of circa five percent in young women population, with an increased tendency of frequent occurrence over the past twenty years. Although the diagnosis is relatively simple and straightforward, the treatment of these patients is often time-consuming and challenging for clinicians, as the occurrence of malignant and persistent forms of the condition is becoming ever more common. Resistant clinical diagnoses usually arise through comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders. Counted among them, first of all, are personality disorders.

A.N. is treated by means of using various groups of psychopharmacological drugs in combination with psychotherapeutic treatment, with intention to establish a favorable therapeutic relationship and stability of the patient. Psychotherapeutic part of the treatment gains in importance when the condition occurs in comorbidity with personality disorders. Supportive treatment measures, namely aggressive rehydration, caloric values compensation via probes and and catheters are often an integral part of the treatment, and become particularly important when faced with treating malignant forms of the condition.

Presented case will show that the malignant forms of Anorexia Nervosa can only be understood through insight into the psychological foundations of personality and frequently accompanying disorders on Axis II (DSM-IV). The female patient in question displays a base borderline personality structure with dominant narcissistic tendencies which prompted the development of a malignant form of the condition and thus made the treatment significantly more difficult. Only early intervention with emphasis on the psychotherapy treatment can ensure a better long-term prognosis in such cases.
2020 – Neuropsychological Evaluation Of Executive Functionsin Schizophrenic “psychosocial Care Center” Users In Cabedelo / Pb
Authors: Medeiros H.L.V. , Fonseca D.H.
Published: July 2013

Schizophrenia is a complex mental disorder of unknown origin, which has stimulated scholars to want to fully understand it. Through neuropsychological testing it has been possible to delimit areas and brain functions; executive functions have been increasingly studied since studies with people with schizophrenia have shown that its impairment can be related to the person's social and occupational dysfunction. This work aimed to evaluate the executive functions of schizophrenic patients of the CAPS I(a Psychosocial Care Center) in the city of Cabedelo in the state of Paraiba. This study was based on a sample of 20 patients with schizophrenia according to the DSM IV, which were later on tested with the Block Design subtest of Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-III), the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and a socio-demographic questionnaire. The results showed possible involvement in executive functions, indicated by poor performance in the WCST, showing mainly a high level of preservative errors, few administered trials and a small number of categories completed. As for the performance in the block subtest, it was also possible to indicate levels of cognitive impairment established by a high number of below average test scores. Both results were significant in testing the executive function impairment, which may be one of the premises of socio-occupational dysfunction, found within the socio-demographic data. It is concluded that there is loss of executive functions in individuals with schizophrenia.
2025 – Audit Of Monitoring For Metabolic Syndrome In Medium Secure Forensic Wards In Roseberry Park Hospital, Middlesbrough, Uk
Authors: Nzekwe A. , Nzekwe V. , Udo I.
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Persons receiving care in forensic settings face unique challenges. Long hospital stay combined with other factors such as reduced physical activity, unhealthy diets, smoking, serious mental illness, antipsychotic medications, all add up to increase their risk of acquiring metabolic syndrome, thereby increasing morbidity and mortality.

Aim

Practice of monitoring for metabolic effects of an atypical antipsychotic- Clozapine was audited with the Maudsley Guideline as standard in 2 medium secure wards with 25 patients. It was conducted in 2011.

Objectives

We checked whether blood lipids and body weight were monitored at baseline, at 3 months and then yearly; whether blood glucose and blood pressure were checked at baseline, at 4–6 months and then yearly.

Methods

Various sources of information were used including: paper medical records, electronic clinical entries, physical observation charts, medication prescription charts, Clozapine charts and acute hospital laboratory results

Results

24 patients (96%) were on antipsychotic medication. Of these, 23 patients were on atypicals. Of the latter, 8 persons were on Clozapine. No patient on Clozapine achieved a 100% monitoring on indices. Baseline monitoring for cholesterol, weight, blood glucose and blood pressure were 88%, 50%, 75% and 88% respectively. At midterm they were 50%, 100%, 38%, and 25% respectively. There were variable compliance with other indices at stipulated times. Lack of supporting infrastructure to facilitate compliance was identified.

Conclusion

There was a need to adhere to existing guidelines which were also embodied in Trust policy to help manage metabolic syndrome.