bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New models for research and development in the treatment of mental illness
Authors: Kjær J.N. 
Published: May 2016

The pharmaceutical industry's investments in research and development of novel treatments for mental illness have heavily declined in the past decade. Major private investments are, by most experts, seen as necessary to develop new treatments. However, psychiatry is not the only area overlooked by the industry. For decades infectious diseases have also lacked investments in research and development.AimsThe aims of this study were to investigate the new models of research and development in infectious diseases that emerged after the pharmaceutical industry ceased their investments and to model how these can be used in psychiatry.MethodA systematic review. We searched PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science for the keywords “infectious diseases”, “research and development” and “pharmaceutical industry”.Preliminary resultsThe searches gave a total of 248 references. Among the findings, we want to highlight the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) and the WHO Research and Development Treaty (R&D Treaty). DNDi is a non-profit organization that has developed six new drugs since 2003. The development costs were €150 millions per drug, which is considerably below the costs for drug development claimed by the pharmaceutical industry. The R&D Treaty will commit member states of the WHO to fund development for neglected health needs using alternative incentives like milestone prizes, patent pools and direct grants. The treaty has not yet been agreed upon.ConclusionsThough a low priority from the pharmaceutical industry, other funding models have proven able to deliver new treatments. This could also lead to more development of non-patentable treatments, e.g. psychotherapy.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Aripiprazole is effective for the improvement of psychotic symptoms in patients with dementia with lewy bodies
Authors: Kikuchi Y. , Kanbayashi T. , Shimizu T. 
Published: May 2016

ObjectiveDementia with lewy bodies (DLB) is commonly considered the second most common form of dementia. The purpose of this study is to investigate the treatment effects of aripiprazole in patients with DLB.MethodsEleven patients who had meet the criteria for DLB participated in this study. The presence of psychotic symptoms was confirmed by scores of either the delusions or hallucinations items of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) score. Patients who had 25 or more on the Mini-mental State Examination Scale (MMSE) at the entry or having brain damage were excluded. Aripiprazole was initiated at a low dose (3 or 6 mg/day) and titrated to higher doses at 2-weeks intervals or more rapidly based on investigator's judgment. Previous medications prior to aripiprazole administration were not changed through this trial. Patient's clinical status was assessed at baseline, then 2 weeks during the study by using NPI, Clinical Global Impression (CGI) and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) to measure psychotic behavioral symptoms, and Simpson-Angus Scale (SAS) to measure parkinsonism symptoms. Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) and MMSE were carried out at screening and end point to evaluate cognitive function.ResultsThe mean scores of the SAS and CDR were significantly decreased at the study endpoint compared to baseline. The mean scores of the NPI and BPRS improved up until 4 weeks after having started aripiprazole. After 4 weeks, improvements slowed. The mean score of the CGI-S was decreased up until 8 weeks.ConclusionThis study shows that aripiprazole may be effective for the treatment of psychotic symptoms in patients with DLB.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
The therapeutic potential of natural compounds against Alzheimer's disease: A preclinical pharmacological study in both sexes
Authors: Kokras N. , Dimitriadou M. , Sotiropoulos I. , Skaltsounis A.L. , Tsarbopoulos A. , Dalla C. 
Published: May 2016

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative neuropsychiatric disorder, is often comorbid with depression and anxiety. Neuropsychiatric disorders are also characterized by sex differences. However, most preclinical pharmacological studies are conducted using only males. Herein, we used male and female twelve-month-old mice (3xTg) expressing mutated forms of human proteins Tau, APP and Presenilin1. These mice are considered a valid animal model of AD. We investigated the effects of the natural compound trans-crocin-4 (TC-4), which is derived from Crocus sativus and the olive compound oleuropein on the cognitive, depressive and anxious profile of 3xTg mice. We found that male and female 3xTg mice exhibited reduced locomotor activity and oleuropeine treatment (100 mg/kg i.p., for 21 days) did not reverse this phenotype. In addition, anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors were not affected by genotype, sex or oleuropeine treatment. Interestingly, oleuropeine exhibited a tendency to enhance cognitive performance in male 3xTg mice. Treatment with TC-4 (50 and 150 mg/kg, i.p., acutely or chronically for 10 days) affected locomotor activity in a sex-differentiated manner. Interestingly, acute TC-4 clearly enhanced cognitive performance in all groups although it reduced center entries in the open field. Additionally, chronic TC-4 treatment enhanced novel object discrimination mainly in male 3xTg mice. Our findings highlight the potential of those natural compounds, which warrant further investigation but also emphasize the benefits of including both males and females in preclinical pharmacological studies.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Metabolic syndrome and its association with psychotropic medications in psychiatric patients from CAISM–IGSS (Center for Comprehensive Care Mental Health/Guatemalan Institute of Social Security)
Authors: Lopez J. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionThe use of antipsychotics represents an integral part of the psychiatric practice, unfortunately the use seems to be associated with an elevated frequency of metabolic alterations causing an important weight disorder and glucose and lipid homeostasis, diminishing life expectations for these patients, likely to develop metabolic syndrome without proper control.ObjectivesThis study intended to find the association between metabolic syndrome in patients with psychotropic treatments used in the Guatemalan Institute of Social Security (IGSS).MethodologyCohort Study (n = 43 patients) who were treated combined with antipsychotics and mood stabilizers or antidepressants, conducting checkups at the beginning, then two to four months after, evaluating diagnosis of metabolic syndrome according to the criteria stated by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).ResultsRisk factor with the use of clozapine and valproic acid was revealed after four months of exposure (RR = 2.32). With the use of clozapine and mood stabilizers a risk factor was prevalent with exposure after four months (RR = 2.67), and with the use of antidepressants a protective factor for the development of metabolic syndrome was revealed at four months of exposure (RR = 0.3741).Conclusionsthe use of antipsychotics in combination with mood stabilizers represents a risk factor for developing metabolic syndrome, especially the association with valproic acid.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his declaration of competing interest.
Antipsychotics-induced leukopenia and neutropenia: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Maatallah H. , Ben Ammar H. , Said M. , Aissa A. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionAntipsychotic drugs effectively control psychotic symptoms, but may cause important side effects, significantly increasing morbidity and mortality. Hematologic abnormalities are frequent and may be life-threatening in some patients. Many prospective investigations confirmed neutropenia as a frequent occurrence with virtually all atypical antipsychotics.Objective and methodsDefine epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic characteristics of antipsychotics – induced leukopenia and neutropenia through a case report and a review of literature.Case reportPatient 28 years old native of Tunis, with family history: brother who suffer of undifferentiated schizophrenia. Since the age of 16 years he has been followed for disorganized schizophrenia (DSM IV). He was initially put under Haldol Decanoate (2 months), fluphenazine (2 months), amisulpride (3 months), sulpride (2 months), olanzapine (3 months), Rispreridone (1 month), aripiprazole (5 months) leukopenia/neutropenia is occurring during treatment with each molecule and which promptly resolved after discontinuation. Reduced white blood cell count has also been reported after addition of lithium. Actually an ECT is proposed for this patient.ConclusionThis case report shows the importance of hematological monitoring during the course of typical or atypical treatment.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Modulation of corticospinal excitability by valerian officinalis root extract: A neuropharmacological Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) study
Authors: Mineo L. , Concerto C. , Sarraf Y. , Giokas E. , Paula M. , Coira D. , Ellen C. , Aguglia E. , Battaglia F. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionValerian officinalis roots extract is a popular medication for insomnia and anxiety treatment. Sedative effect of Valerian is mainly attributed to the modulation of gabaergic transmission, but its pharmacodynamics has not been fully elucidated.ObjectsTo investigate the acute effects of Valerian Officinalis extracts intake on corticoexcitability as measured by TMS.AimsTo obtain further data on Valerian pharmacodynamics.MethodsTwelve healthy volunteers participated in a double-blind randomized crossover placebo-controlled study. They were required to take either 900 mg of Valerian officinalis extract (valerenic acid 0.8%) or placebo. Focal TMS of the hand area of left motor cortex was used to test Resting motor threshold (RMT), Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) amplitude and silent period duration (SP). We also tested Short-interval Intracortical Inhibition (SICI), Intracortical facilitation (ICF), Short and Long afferent Inhibition (SAI and LAI). All parameters were investigated at baseline, 1 hour and 6 hours after drug intake. After a 3-week washout period the subjects switched to the alternate arm of the study.ResultsA mixed RMANOVA revealed a significant main effect of “time” [F(1,22) = 4.03, P = 0.02] and a significant “treatment × time” interaction [F(1,22) = 6.3, P = 0.003]. Post-hoc analysis indicated that the amount of ICF was significantly reduced 1 hour after Valerian intake (P = 0.01) returning to baseline values after 6 hours. No significant changes between the Valerian and placebo groups were observed for the other parameters investigated.ConclusionsThe modulation of ICF induced by Valerian officinalis is likely due to glutamatergic antagonism and might underlie the anti-anxiety therapeutic effects.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Subacute psychiatric hospitalization unit: The role of clozapine
Authors: Orejas O. , Masferrer Herrera C. , Macías Castellví C. , Flores Martínez P. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionSeveral studies report that Clozapine is more effective in reducing symptoms of schizophrenia, producing clinically meaningful improvements and postponing relapse than other antipsychotic strategies.ObjectivesTo analyze the prescription of Clozapine in a sample of 88 inpatients admitted to a subacute psychiatric hospitalization unit.MethodsThis is a transversal study. All patients admitted for a medium-term psychiatric treatment since 01/06/2014 to 30/11/2015 were included. Data about socio-demographical status and clinical situation were obtained and compiled in a database. This study compares patients receiving clozapine treatment with those who receive other psychopharmacologic treatment. Statistics were performed using SPSS Software.ResultsEighty-eight patients (52% men; mean age: 48.6 years) composed the sample. In 58% of cases, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder were the diagnoses motivating the admission. Within the 51 patients with Schizophrenia o Schizoaffective Disorder, 16 of them (31.4%) received Clozapine. Comparing clozapine group vs non-clozapine group, there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of sex, civil state or working state. Instead, Clozapine group patients were older, had a major number of previous hospitalization admissions and had a larger trajectory of their disorder.ConclusionsPatients requiring treatment with Clozapine had a major number of hospital admissions and had more often committed suicide attempts, suggesting a more severe course of the disorder. They were older than the non-clozapine group. Clozapine is delayed in its use among resistant-treatment patients. It is worth highlighting that only 16 cases of Schizophrenia inpatients received Clozapina. It could mean that Clozapine is underprescribed.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Interferon-induced psychosis: Myth or reality?
Authors: Antunes A. , Sousa L. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionInterferon combined with ribavirin is widely used to decrease the burden of Hepatitis C virus (HCV), but some serious side effects might limit its usefulness. There has been recently a growing awareness about neuropsychiatric complications of many drug treatments. Anecdotal case reports of HCV treatment induced psychosis were published but there seems to be no consensus about the causative relation and no systematic reviews were done to the date.ObjectiveTo describe a paradigmatic case that was managed as an iatrogenic psychotic episode following interferon associated with ribavirin.AimCall attention to problems that interfere with the recognition, diagnosis and management of drugs induced psychosis.MethodsBibliographic research was conducted through the PubMed in the Medline library and clinical information was obtained through medical records and clinical interviews with the patient.ResultsA 50-year-old Brazilian woman, with a previous episode of postpartum depression, presented with paranoid psychosis six months after initiating HCV antiviral therapy. Psychotic symptoms consisted of persecutory delusions and auditory hallucinations and developed together with agitation and aggressive behavior. Psychiatric hospitalization was required and psychosis resolved with discontinuation of therapy and initiation of risperidone. Laboratory tests and brain images were of no help in the etiologic investigation.ConclusionsThere are many drugs known to possibly cause neuropsychiatric symptoms. It is the job of every physician to be aware of this hypothesis especially in cases with acute onset and atypical presentations.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Electroconvulsive therapy in depressed older adults with unrepaired abdominal aortic aneurysm: Safety first!
Authors: Petrykiv S. , Arts M. , de Jonge L. , Michielsen P. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionIt is not clear whether electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe procedure in depressed older adults with unrepaired abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). ECT is potentially incriminating to the cardiovascular system due to a transiently elevation of blood pressure and heart rate during the seizure.ObjectivesTo report a case of an older adult presenting a psychotic depression complicated by an unrepaired AAA.AimsTo report a case study, describing the safety of ECT in patients with unrepaired AAA.MethodsA case report and retrospective review was conducted.ResultsA 75-year-old male was admitted to hospital for the treatment of a psychotic depression. Treatment was complicated since for one year he was diagnosed with an AAA (diameter 4.7 cm). In collaboration with vascular surgeons and anesthesiologists we decided to start ECT. After fourteen ECTs an improvement of mood was achieved. Post-ECT we noticed an AAA expansion of 0.1 cm.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that ECT may be a safe procedure for patients diagnosed with unrepaired AAA. Published data suggest that the risk for aortic aneurysm rupture during ECT is low. However, multidisciplinary collaboration among psychiatrists, anesthesiologists and vascular surgeons is essential for a positive outcome.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Adverse effects in repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation – prevention and management
Authors: Sobreira G. , Aleixo M.A. , Moreia C. , Oliveira J. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionRepetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), through modulation of cortical activity, has become an invaluable tool in experimental and clinical neurosciences. Although this form of noninvasive treatment is considered safer than other means of brain stimulation it has been associated with adverse effects (AE).ObjectiveTo make a brief review, concerning the AE of rTMS, their prevention and management.AimsTo understand and be able to deal with the most common AE associated with rTMS.MethodsA PubMed database search, using as keywords “Transcranial magnetic stimulation”, “Repetitive Transcranial magnetic stimulation”; “adverse effects”; “management” and “guidelines” between the year 1998 and 2015.ResultsAE caused by rTMS are rare. They can be classified into severe (seizures) and mild (syncope, and transient hearing impairment, acute psychiatric changes, headache, local pain, neck pain, toothache, paresthesia and cognitive/neuropsychological changes) and into early and late AE. In order to obviate and avoid them, guidelines have been created; some state that to apply rTMS the technician needs to obtain the patient's informed consent and assess the risks/benefit ratio. To meet these criteria, screening tools have been created, and since then the number of AE has reduced.ConclusionsEven though rTMS is considered safer than other forms of brain stimulation it is still associated with AE. In order to avoid them, screening tools have been created allowing the clinician to assess the risks and benefits of applying this technique.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Flexible eclectic psychotherapy (FEP): A model for psychotherapy integration
Authors: Coira D. , Grady M. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionMost experienced psychotherapists use an eclectic approach in their practice, combining techniques of different schools of psychotherapy to treat their patients. However, there are no good teaching models to train the new generation of psychotherapists in the technique of psychotherapy integration. FEP is a form of psychotherapy that combines techniques from four different psychotherapies: psychodynamics, CBT, IPT and supportive therapy. It also incorporates mindfulness, motivational interviewing, exercise and nutrition. A strong therapeutic alliance is crucial to the success of FEP. Techniques are tailored to the patient's current clinical state. Several techniques from different psychotherapies may be used in the same session. The therapist is empathic, flexible adaptive to the patient's needs and assumes an active role in the therapeutic process.ObjectiveTo present a model of psychotherapy integration that can be used by psychotherapists in their clinical practice.AimsWe aim to present a model of psychotherapy integration that can be taught and implemented by psychotherapists in their clinical practice.ResultsWe present ten case examples were FEP was effective clinically and we compare it to the standard of care received by these patients and show the savings to the healthcare system.ConclusionThe results of our study suggest that FEP could be a cost effective treatment that could be added to the psychotherapists toolbox. Teaching and training methods, like manuals and workshops can be developed to train the new generation of psychotherapists.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Group therapy with eating disorders
Authors: Garcia E. , Martinez R. , Leon M. , Polo F. 
Published: May 2016

The aim of this abstract is shown the results obtained working, into a group model, with adolescents that suffer eating disorders.One issue that is common with that group of patients is a social dysfunction that makes them to isolate or start risk conducts as a way to integrate with partners.In some cases, isolation or risks conducts are difficult to work in a individual or family therapy model, as both of them are lack of the generational issues that adolescents live daily.So, although they may accept the need to improve their relations and social functioning, they will argue that it is not possible and that parents or therapists do not know about how difficult is that in their world.That way, in this group of patients, it is not rare that therapy become a frustrating experience that enworse patients.One solution could be group therapy because it solves generational issues and let patients help other patients to improve.The problem is that when we put together patients with eating disorders one risk is that eating conduct hidden other goals.We analyse our experience with adolescents with eating disorders and group therapy, explaining our model, goals, problems and solutions.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Psychotherapeutic interventions in Tinnitus
Authors: Silva M. , Figueiredo A.R. , Fornelos A. , Macedo P. , Nunes S. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionTinnitus is defined as the subjective or objective perception of a hearing sensation in the absence of a corresponding external stimulus. It is a very common medical symptom, and some studies show that 5 to 15% of adults had tinnitus in life. It is a condition that could be chronic and for some patients could be very debilitating. Anxiety and depression are common findings in patients with tinnitus. Tinnitus can also interfere with sleep and concentration and affect the quality of life of patients. The heterogeneity of the etiology, pathophysiology and clinical features of tinnitus probably exacerbate the variability of response to treatment of the population and the decision on the best treatment option could be complex.ObjectivesThe purpose of this study is try to understand how the psychotherapeutic interventions may be useful in the treatment of tinnitus.MethodsBibliographic research in Pubmed.ResultsCurrently there are no available effective pharmacological treatments. In some cases, surgical interventions may be effective with respect to ear pathology, but not to tinnitus. Most studies show that psychological interventions are needed to reduce the distress and the impact caused by tinnitus in patients’ lives and the cognitive-behavioral therapy is the primary therapeutic intervention in chronic tinnitus.ConclusionAlthough cognitive-behavioral techniques demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of the distress and impact caused by tinnitus, little is known about the mechanisms by which this technique achieves this effect, therefore most authors suggest that further studies should be conducted in this area.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.