bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical and socio-demographic characteristics of a sample of outpatients with long-acting injectable antipsychotic treatment
Authors: Moreno Monmany J. , Tinoco Calero I. , Bagué Gomez N. , Samsó Buxareu B. , Chavarria Romero V. , Castillo Magaña S. , Oller Canet S. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionThere are relatively few studies of Long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAI), although poor adherence to treatment is one of the main problems in patients with psychotic disorders.ObjectivesThe aim of the study is to describe socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of a sample of outpatients with LAI treatment.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study. A randomized sampling was performed among the outpatients that were receiving LAI in an outpatient clinic in Barcelona (Spain). For each patient, socio-demographic, clinical and pharmacotherapeutic data were collected through interviews and clinical history.ResultsThe sample consisted of 30 subjects (50% men, average age 48 years). Most of the patients in the sample have basic education (50%) and are unemployed, receiving permanent disability pension (39.3%). In addition, 44.8% of the subjects were living with family members and were not married (56.7%). Of the patients, 70% were diagnosed with schizophrenia, 13.3% schizoaffective, 10% bipolar and 6.7% delusional disorder. The main reason to initiate LAI treatment was due to non-compliance of the prescribed oral treatment (85.7%). The 40% of patients were also with oral antipsychotic treatment. Average punctuation in the 3 first items of the Scale to Assess Unawareness of Mental Disorder: 11. Average punctuation in the short version of the Simpson-Angus Scale: 1.68.ConclusionsIn our sample, the outpatients with LAI treatment had a low functioning and disease awareness. Although the main reason to start LAI is the non-compliance, 40% of the patients were concurrently treated with oral antipsychotics. The extrapyramidal side effects are mild.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
A comparison of risperidone and olanzapine in the acute treatment of persistent delusional disorder: Data from a retrospective chart review
Authors: Kulkarni K. , Arasappa R. , Prasad K. , Zutshi A. , Chand P. , Muralidharan K. , Murthy P. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionThere is a lack of pharmacological trials studying drug response in Persistent Delusional Disorder (PDD) to guide clinical practice. Available reviews of retrospective data indicate good response to second-generation antipsychotics, but even such data from India is sparse.Objectives and aimsWe aimed to compare the response of acute PDD to risperidone and olanzapine in our retrospective review.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with PDD (ICD-10) from 2000 to 2014 (n = 455) at our Center. We selected the data of patients prescribed either olanzapine or risperidone for the purpose of this analysis. We extracted data about dose, drug compliance and response, adverse effects, number of follow-up visits and hospitalizations. The study was approved by the Institute Ethics Committee.ResultsA total of 280/455 (61%) were prescribed risperidone and 86/455 (19%) olanzapine. The remaining (n = 89; 20%) had received other antipsychotics. The two groups were comparable in socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of PDD. Compliance was good and comparable in both groups (> 80%, P = 0.2). Response to treatment was comparable in both groups (85% partial response and > 52% good response, all P > 0.3). Olanzapine was effective at lower mean chlorpromazine equivalents than risperidone (240 vs. 391, P < 0.05).ConclusionOur study indicates a good response to both risperidone and olanzapine, if compliance to treatment can be ensured. In the absence of specific treatment guidelines for PDD, second-generation antipsychotics like risperidone and olanzapine offer good treatment options for this infrequently encountered and difficult to treat psychiatric disorder.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Lithium treatment and thyroid dysfunction – data from an inpatient psychiatric department
Authors: Lázaro M. , Mota A. , Moreira A. , Alves R. , Nobre M.A. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionLithium is among the most effective therapies for bipolar disorder. Lithium treatment may cause hypothyroidism, goiter or to a lesser extent hyperthyroidism, since it can affect several aspects of thyroid functioning. The prevalence of lithium-associated hypothyroidism varies extensively between studies, reaching up to 47%, and affecting more females than males (5:1).ObjectiveDetermine the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in an acute inpatient psychiatric department dedicated to affective disorders and its association with lithium therapy.AimsTo review the relation between lithium treatment and thyroid dysfunction.MethodsObservational, descriptive and retrospective study with clinical and laboratorial data concerning all inpatient episodes of 2015 in our Psychiatric Department. A non-systematic literature search was performed in PubMed.ResultsThe present study documented a high prevalence of thyroid dysfunction, particularly in women. Most cases were due to either hypothyroidism or subclinical hypothyroidism. Patients treated with lithium were more often under thyroid hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine).ConclusionsThe evidence that lithium treatment is associated with hypothyroidism is well established and this condition is easily treatable with levothyroxine. This study highlights the importance of baseline screening of thyroid function and regular long-term monitoring in patients treated with lithium.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Pro-BNP as a biomarker of asymptomatic clozapine-related heart dysfunction: Possible usefulness for clozapine management
Authors: Prisco V. , Petrosino M. , Fabrazzo M. 
Published: May 2016

Cardiovascular clozapine-related side effects such as tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension are well recognized, but are rarely clinically important. However, the increasing number of life-threatening drug-related complications are giving rise to concerns about cardiac adverse reactions (myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, pericarditis and heart failure). The diagnosis is usually made considering patient's symptoms, such as tachycardia, slightly increased body temperature, subjective chest pain, dyspnea. However, this symptomatology is not always present in a clozapine-related pericarditis. Some authors suggest measuring BNP levels to detect early and asymptomatic cardiac dysfunction. We here report the clinical cases of two women, respectively 22 and 28 years old. They both suffered from an early onset resistant schizophrenia. Clozapine was gradually introduced, at a dose of 200 mg/day, in both patients. After about one month in both cases, while the first patient was nearly asymptomatic, apart from the intermittent fever (only PCR and pro-BNP values were elevated, 16.88 mg/dL and 1004 pg/mL, respectively), the second one showed a classic symptomatology suggestive of pericarditis. Clozapine was discontinued in both patients, resulting in progressive resolution of pericarditis. Interestingly, in the patient in which pro-BNP was elevated, after clozapine cessation, the pro-BNP fell down dramatically. Pro-BNP plasma levels appears to be an interesting test in identifying subjects with asymptomatic cardiac impairment. It would be useful to evaluate if early treatment with beta-blockers and ACE-inhibitors may allow the prosecution of clozapine treatment after developing of mild signs of cardiac toxicity in drug resistant schizophrenic patients responsive to clozapine.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Mental health transition plans for older adolescents with autistic spectrum disorders – clinical profile of patients from a metropolitan Borough, North West of England
Authors: Olety S. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionThe needs of people with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) are varied and complex. In order to improve outcomes for Adults with Autism, it is important to understand and evaluate the transition planning process and current services for adolescents/young Adults with ASC.Aims and objectivesAim was to undertake the needs assessment audit of all young people (ages 16–19) open to a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. Objectives was to ensure that transition/discharge plan was in place for all the open cases and also identify any gaps in service provision.MethodsA retrospective case-note review of all open cases (n = 41) aged 16–19 was undertaken. Data was obtained on diagnosis, co morbid problems, educational status, and transition/discharge plans.ResultsTwenty-two percent of the cases had co morbid moderate to severe Intellectual Disability. Transition was not an issue for this group, with entitlement of support from secondary-care-teams. Seventy-eight percent of the cases had diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome (AS)/high functioning autism (HFA). Seventy-five percent had co-morbid depressive/anxiety disorders, 12% had ADHD and 10% presented with repeated self-harm/suicidal behaviour. Nature of the co-morbid problems/risks did not meet thresholds for Community Adult Secondary Mental Health Services resulting in discharge to Primary Health Care Services.ConclusionsBetter training to equip primary care staff, such as General Practitioners is needed to support the growing numbers of young adults with HFA/Asperger's syndrome being discharged to their care. Costs/benefits of providing specialist adult services for people with HFA and AS to be considered in order to improve outcomes for adults with autism.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.
Public stigma of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the Czech Republic
Authors: Mádlová K. , Kališová L. , Zajícová M. 
Published: May 2016

AimsTo find out how the use of ECT in psychiatry is perceived by the public in the Czech Republic.MethodThe questionnaire (8 questions monitoring awareness, knowledge of ECT and its use in modern psychiatry) created for the purpose of this study was shared through internet and also distributed in paper version to public.ResultsThe sample consists of 365 respondents – age average 28.9 years, 62% of females, 53% of university graduates, 44% with secondary education, 3% other education, 27% of healthcare professionals outside the field of psychiatry, 20% of medical students before the start of the traineeship at psychiatry, 53% of the public. Among the respondents, 98% have heard about ECT, 7% of them think that ECT is no longer used. Among the respondents, 62% learned about ECT from the media (film, print). Among the respondents, 22% do not believe in the effectiveness of ECT, 30% think that ECT is abused by psychiatrists, 86% believe that ECT has side effects (personality changes, permanent memory disorders, brain damage, epilepsy). Among the respondents, 77% would agree with ECT, if it should be applied to their relative.DiscussionECT is an effective method in treating of severe mental disorders. But until now the public view is influenced by media. Due to the negative stereotype of the method many people are afraid of this treatment. The interesting fact is that also health professionals and medical students are influenced by public stigma of ECT.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Posterior vitreous detachment and electroconvulsive therapy: Insights from a case
Authors: Pavez F. , Alcántara A. , López N. , García A. , Sánchez M. , Roca M. , Moral E. , Russo J. 
Published: May 2016

A case of bilateral posterior vitreous detachment after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been reported previously in the literature. There is not enough evidence about ocular side effects of this treatment. The literature supports a slight increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), although no ocular complications have been reported in normal, glaucomatous or postsurgical eyes. In this case report, we describe a 73-year-old female patient suffering a recurrent depressive disorder, who was admitted to acute psychiatric unit because a treatment-resistant major depressive episode (after an adequate trial of antidepressant drugs and transcranial magnetic stimulation) and clinical suspicion of visual delusions by her reference psychiatrist. The nonpsychiatric history consisted of hypertension, glaucoma and ulcerative colitis in treatment with azathioprine and mesalazine. After a careful examination in the emergency room, we consulted to ophthalmologist because miodesopsias and glaucoma history. The IOP was normal, but a bilateral posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) was identified. Because this entity is not an absolute contraindication for ECT, and there is scarce evidence, we informed the patient and her family. After that, and through informed consent, we decided to undergo ECT. After fourteen sessions, the patient could be discharged because significant clinical benefit and no ocular complications. Outpatient continuation ECT was indicated.ConclusionsECT can be a safe treatment choice in cases of PVD.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Patient's outgroup socialization in the psychotherapeutic group
Authors: Baños Martín I. , Eaton Itúrbide K. , Guerra Gómez E. , Unzeta Conde B. , Vilariño Besteiro P. , Pérez Bustillo P. , Sanz Mendoza J. , Pérez Franco C. , Lahera Forteza G. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionPatient's outgroup socialization may be a problem in the psychotherapeutic group functioning. Disadvantages – and even benefits – of this common issue in psychotherapy have been described (Vinogradov S., Yalom I.). However, the impact of new social networks – that facilitate other ways of immediate and easy communication – on this phenomenon is still unknown.Aims and objectivesTo explore the risks of spontaneous “self-help groups” supported by new technologies for the psychotherapeutic group functioning.MethodCourse description of a psychotherapeutic group, composed by patients with eating disorders (bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder) in the context of a specialized hospital day.ResultsA patient – who has recently had a breakup – asked help to the group through a non-reported whatsapp chat. Gradually, patients used this new channel to express distress and daily interpersonal difficulties, showing less implication in the supervised group sessions. The patient presented a symptomatic relapse with self-harm injuries and severe eating symptoms. Finally, she left the therapy and, in the next weeks, other patients also left the group, due to different reasons, in a “drag phenomenon”. The analysis showed that the formation of this outgroup socialization changed the relationships between members and new roles were taken.ConclusionsIt is necessary to early address the formation of outgroup socialization in the pre-group interview, emphasizing its high risk for the future group functioning. Therapists should consider that out-group communication is common and easy due to new technologies, so the use of specific questionnaires about this issue may prevent or detect pathological events.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Treating trauma with EMDR in adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) – A literature review
Authors: Sizoo B. , Lobregt E. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionLittle is known about trauma or treatment of trauma with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), in adults with ASD. Neither is it clear on how ASD influences the expression of posttraumatic stress.Objectives(1) To increase knowledge about treatment of trauma, and trauma related symptoms in adults with ASD. (2) To provide directionsfor research into the effects of EMDR on the expression of autistic and trauma related symptoms in adults with ASD.MethodsReview of the literature using Cochrane Collaboration Centre, Embase, Medline, PsychINFO, PubMed and Web of Science.ResultsClinicians often overlook trauma related symptoms in people with a severe mental illness like ASD, due to diagnostic overshadowing (Grubaugh, Cusack and Zinzow, 2008), caused by the overlap between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and ASD. In the case of diagnostic overshadowing, symptoms like avoidance, hyperarousal and reduced ability to mentalize (Plana, Lavoie, Battaglia and Achim, 2014) are attributed to ASD, while in actual fact they are manifestations of stress reactions related to perceived traumatic events. However, when symptoms are correctly attributed to negative experiences, clinicians tend to withhold treatment because of fear of aggravating symptoms (Frueh, Cusack, Grubaugh, Sauvageot and Wells, 2006). The literature suggests that trauma in adults with ASD is undertreated.ConclusionTo our knowledge, the effects of EMDR in adults with ASD have not yet been studied, except at case level. A study protocol will be presented to assess the efficacy of EMDR treatment for trauma related symptoms in adults with ASD.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Mutual aid program among adults with mental health illness as part of the treatment in a day hospital
Authors: Guerrero Jiménez M. , Carrillo de Albornoz Calahorro C.M. , Rodrigo Manzano J.A. , Girela Serrano B.M. 
Published: May 2016

Introduction/objectivesTo supervise agents in a mutual aid experience in Motril Mental Health Day Hospital. To perform a supporting role among the agents involved in a mutual aid program to consolidate its operations autonomously.MethodsA multidisciplinary working group, which met every two weeks for 4 months was set. Group sessions were planned. We selected mutual aid pairs individually and addressed the difficulties in the process. The experiment was performed with 4 agents setting a maximum of 5 interviews. A success criterion of 80% of the meetings planned was established. In between mutual aid group, success criterion was to maintain a 3-month experience held by 5 members. A qualitative analysis of most important issues amongst coordination meetings were also held.ResultsThree out of 4 pairs reached 80% of the interviews successfully. The support group was developed weekly during 3 months with an average of 8 participants. The trending topics during coordination meetings were toxic consumption, acute crisis, drug intake and issues to be addressed with the psychiatrist.ConclusionsMutual aid among users is a way of intervention that needs to be further consolidated. The establishment is still unpretentious and has low weight amongst coordination objectives. The results addressed in number of sessions and satisfaction are favorable, but it is necessary to assess the experience widely and to begin developing specific objectives [1,2].Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Emotional management training in residential mental health services
Authors: Vaccaro A. , Fusco V. , Manfrin F. , Forte E. , Petagine G. 
Published: May 2016

A core element for the treatment of psychiatric patients in mental health services is the Psychosocial Rehabilitation. In this work we mainly refer to a training whose targets are fundamental components of the Emotional Intelligence (EI), which is, according to the original Salovey and Mayer's definition (1990), “a set of skills hypothesized to contribute to the accurate appraisal and expression of emotion in oneself and in others, the effective regulation of emotion in self and others, and the use of feelings to motivate, plan, and achieve in one's life”.The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of Emotional Management Training and to compare our emotional management assessment to standardized emotional intelligence assessment instruments.Twenty adult inpatients (from 18 to 55 years of age) were enrolled: ten subjects were assigned to a one year lasting emotional management training (clinical target group) and ten subjects were assigned to a clinical control group; furthermore twenty subjects were selected and assigned to a non-clinical control group. Outcome measures were: emotional management assessment, Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale (SEIS) and Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20).Emotional management assessment outcomes confirm the efficacy of emotional management training. Preliminary results also confirm the effectiveness of the assessment compared to standardized emotional intelligence scales.Emotional management training improves psychiatric patient competence in terms of: emotions definition and acknowledgement, self-emotion identification, self-emotion sharing, management of stressing situation and intense emotions.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Facets Mindfulness Questionnaire-10 – A shorter Portuguese version to evaluate mindfulness dimensions in pregnant women
Authors: Azevedo J. , Bento E. , Xavier S. , Marques M. , Freitas V. , Soares M.J. , Pinto A.M. , Oliveira A. , Macedo A. , Pereira A.T. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionMindfulness refers to the capacity of being present and aware, without feeling the need to react or judge that experience (Kabat Zinn, 1990). This ability is associated with mental health and stress reduction (Baer, 2014; Teasdale et al., 2014). Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) is widely used to measure mindfulness and its relation to psychopathology (Gregorio and Gouveia, 2011).ObjectiveTo analyze the psychometric properties of the Portuguese 15 items FFMQ (Baer; Gregório et al., authors’ manuscript) in a Portuguese sample of pregnant women.MethodsA total of 427 pregnant women (Mean age: 32.56 ± 4.785 years) in their second trimester of pregnancy (17.34 ± 4.790 weeks of gestation) completed the Portuguese version of FFMQ-15.ResultsThe FFMQ-15 Cronbach's alpha was unsatisfactory (α = 0.62) and five items presented low (< 0.20) correlations and had the effect of increasing Cronbach alpha if removed. Without these items, α increased to a satisfactory level (0.72) and all the ten items contributed to internal consistency. The factorial analysis of these ten items resulted in a three factors solution, which explained variance (EV) was of 53.9%. Based on items content, the meaningful three factors were denominated as follows: F1 Nonjudging of experience (EV 27.69%; α = 0.77), F2 Acting with awareness (18.00%; α = 0.77) and F3 Observing and describing (8.21%; α = 0.73).ConclusionsAlthough the FFMQ-15 has shown good psychometric properties in other samples, in this sample of pregnant women a 10-items FMQ (Facets of Mindfulness Questionnaire) version performed better, presenting good reliability and validity in evaluating three mindfulness facets.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.