bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Battery of scales for comprehensive assessment of social cognition, neurocognition and motivation in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Minyaycheva M. , Kiselnikova K. , Papsuev O. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionThere has been a special interest in roles of neurocognition, social cognition and motivation impairments in patients with schizophrenia and possible approaches to remediating these deficits. Clinical practice lacks a comprehensive tool to measure those deficits.ObjectiveTo build a comprehensive assessment battery to measure neurocognitive, social cognitive and motivational deficits in order to form targets for remediation programs and assess their efficiency.AimsTranslation and adaptation for Russian speaking subjects (if needed) of identified assessments upon authors’ agreement.MethodsBy consensus decision of 5 professionals in the field of clinical psychiatry, psychology and neuroscience a number of assessments were selected with the following criteria: 1. Relevance to domain assessed, 2. Appropriateness for Russian social context, 3. Reference rates in scientific papers, 4. Time consumed by each assessment.ResultsSix measures reflecting main domains (neurocognition, Theory of Mind, attributional style, social perception, emotion processing, motivation) were selected: 1. BACS (Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia) (R.S. Keefe et al., 2008), 2. Hinting Task (R. Corcoran 1995), 3. AIHQ (Ambiguous Intentions Hostility Questionnaire) (D.R. Combs et al., 2007), 4. RAD–15 (Relationships Across Domains) (M. Sergi et al., 2004), 5. Ekman–60 (P. Ekman et al., 1976), 6. AES (Apathy Evaluation Scale) (R.S. Marin et al., 1991).ConclusionsThe battery built encompasses all targeted domains of neurocognition, social cognition and motivation. Time consumed by the battery estimates 130 ± 15 minutes, which is appropriate for clinical practice in a rehabilitation centre. Future research will focus on patients profiling and shaping of rehabilitation programs accordingly.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Aripiprazole once-monthly efficacy in patients with schizophrenia. Review
Authors: Molina López M.F. , Cancino Botello M.C. , Peña Serrano A. , Canseco Navarro M.D.L.A. 
Published: May 2016

Introductionlong acting injectable formulations of antipsychotics are a valuable option for patients with schizophrenia, offering continuous medication delivery and stable dosage levels. Aripiprazole once-monthly is the first dopamine partial agonist available in long acting formulation approved in Europe for Schizophrenia with excellent results so far.Aimsto conduct a current review of articles related to the use and efficacy of Aripiprazole once monthly in patients with Schizophrenia.Methodssystematic review of the literature in English using the following keywords: “aripiprazole once-monthly”, “aripiprazole long acting formulation”, “schizophrenia”. PubMed database.ResultsAripiprazole once-monthly (AOM) formulation efficacy has been proven in many studies. The importance of maintaining an oral overlap during 14 days is highlighted in all studies that have been reviewed in order to reach therapeutic level; therefore, it can be used in patients with acute decompensations. Recent studies comparing AOM versus Paliperidone Palmitate once monthly (PP) have shown that patients with AOM had greater clinical improvement and, even though both drugs were well tolerated, when Quality of Life Style Scale was analyzed an important improvement in empathy, sense of purpose, emotional interaction and curiosity in the AOM group was observed.Conclusionslong acting injectable antipsychotics increase long-term adherence treatment and reduce risk of relapse. Because of its unique mechanism of action, Aripiprazole once-monthly improves positive and negative symptoms, giving the patient an opportunity to have a better quality of life.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Correlation between childhood trauma and cognitive impairment in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Mrizak J. , Trabelsi R. , Arous A. , Aissa A. , Ben Ammar H. , El Hechmi Z. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionAbusive childhood experiences are claimed to be more prevalent in people with schizophrenia (SCZ) than in the general population. The exposure to childhood trauma can have adverse effects on cognitive function.ObjectivesTo investigate whether there is a relationship between childhood trauma (CT) and cognitive functioning in patients with SCZ.MethodsFifty-eight outpatients with stable SCZ were recruited. The participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire retrospectively assessing five types of childhood trauma (emotional, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional and physical neglect). They also completed a neurocognitive battery comprising the following tests: the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test–Revised (HVLT-R), the Letter Digit Substitution Test (LDST), the Stroop Test (ST), the “Double Barrage” of Zazzo (DBZ), the Modified Card Sorting Test (MCST), the Verbal Fluency (VF), the Trail Making Test-Part A (TMT-A) and the Digit Span (DS).ResultsThe patients with a history of physical abuse (P = 0.03) or emotional neglect (P = 0.07) performed worse at the delayed recall of the HVLT-R. A history of emotional neglect was also correlated to a significantly worse performance in theTMT-A (P < 0.0001), while physical abuse was correlated to worse DS (P = 0.015). High emotional abuse scores were significantly correlated to poorer efficiency in DBZ (P = 0.025).ConclusionsThe results need replication, but underline the necessity of investigating biological and psychosocial mechanisms underlying these subjects’ cognitive impairment.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Implications of immunity and inflammation in schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders
Authors: Perestrelo J. , Mota D. , Coutinho A. , Santos M. , Lapa G. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionIntricate interactions between the immune system and the brain might have important etiological and therapeutic implications for neuropsychiatric brain disorders. A probable association between schizophrenia and the immune system was postulated over a century ago, and is supported by epidemiological and genetic studies pointing to links with infection and inflammation.ObjectiveTo describe some important areas of research regarding immune response in schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders and discuss potential mechanisms and therapeutic implications of these findings.AimsAssociations between immune response, inflammation and schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders are reviewed.MethodsA literature review of the theme is surveyed. Several articles were search on MEDLINE with the keywords: schizophrenia, psychosis, inflammation, immunity, infection.ResultsSchizophrenia is a multifactorial disease. It is associated with multiple genetic loci that confer risk, in addition to developmental and postnatal risk factors. Antipsychotic-naive first-episode psychosis and acute psychotic relapse seems to be associated with increased serum concentrations of interleukin 6 and other proinflammatory cytokines, which are normalized after remission of symptoms with antipsychotic treatment.ConclusionsInflammation and immune dysfunction might contribute to cognitive, negative, and positive symptoms in schizophrenia. Identification of specific inflammatory pathways for neuropsychiatric symptoms would provide novel targets for therapeutic intervention.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Rehospitalization rate of first episode and chronic schizophrenia patients one year after discharge
Authors: Softic R. , Becirovic E. , Mirkovic Hajdukov M. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionRelapse rate among patients with schizophrenia can determinate outcome of illness. Up to 40% of patients with first psychosis responds well to treatment. Despite this fact relapse rate is still high, in particular if treatment is discontinuated. Frequent use of first generation antipsychotics (FGA) in underdeveloped countries can be one of possible reasons for treatment discontinuation and consequent relapse.AimsTo analyse rehospitalisation rate in patients with first and multiple episodes of schizophrenia, and compare it with medication choice.MethodsRetrospective analysis of medical records of patients with schizophrenia hospitalised in Psychiatry Clinic of University Clinical Center Tuzla in period from year 2011 to 2013.ResultsDuring the two-year period, 37 patients with first episode of schizophrenia were hospitalised. Second generation antipsychotics (SGA) were used in 40.5%, and first generation in 13.5%, long acting injectibles - first generation (LAI) were used in 8.1%, and combination of FGA's and SGA's in 5.4% of cases. In the same period, 121 patients with multiple episodes of schizophrenia were hospitalised. SGA were used in 21.4%, FGA in 33%, LAI's in 47.1%, and combination FGA's and SGA's in 35.5% of cases. Relapse rate in the first year after discharge was 16.2% in group with first psychotic episode, and 33% in the group with multiple episodes of schizophrenia.ConclusionHigh relapse rate in group with multiple episodes can be explained with nonadherence regarding the side effects of too frequent use of FGA's.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Challenges faced by gender-variant people in receiving appropriate care and ways to improve their care and lives – A UK study
Authors: Clementi N. , Dobrzynska E. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionIt is only in the last decade that trans people have been accorded rights and give protection in law from discrimination. A survey of 10,000 people undertaken by the Equality and Human Right Commission showed that 1% of the population was gender-variant to some extent. Gender-variant people continue to suffer restricted opportunities, discrimination and harassment at work despite the existence of anti-discrimination and equalities legislation. It is estimated that up to 40% of people with gender dysphoria may not be receiving appropriate help.ObjectiveReview of UK policies, guidelines, legislation and research on challenges faced by gender-variant people and ways to improve their care and lives.AimsTo improve gender-variant people access to care and ways to fight inequalities.MethodsMEDLINE, PsycINFO databases were searched for articles published between 2005–2015 containing the keywords “gender dysphoria”, “gender-variant people” and “transgender people”. Relevant policies, guidelines and legislations were also reviewed.ResultsTransgender people still face major health inequalities and discrimination. National statistics show that 80% have experienced harassment, 62% suffered discrimination at work or home and 54% reported being denied access to NHS care due to lack of cultural competency from staff. Guidelines, research, policies and equality legislation have begun to be implemented to protect transgender people from discrimination and accord rights.ConclusionsMany areas need attention and improvement including not only healthcare but also employment, education, housing and media perception. Promotion of equality in the general population with the aim of achieving cultural change and improvement of cultural competency of health professionals is needed.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Body image and gender role perceived in gender dysphoria: Cross-sex hormone therapy effects
Authors: Corda E. , Bandecchi C. , Deiana V. , Pintore S. , Pinna F. , Pusceddu R. , Oppo A. , Mariotti S. , Argiolas A. , Carpiniello B. 
Published: May 2016

The gender dysphoria (GD) refers to the distress caused by the incongruence between gender identity and biological sex. This occurs, especially in pre-treatment cross-sex hormone therapy (CHT), with a marked dissatisfaction with their body image.The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of perceived gender in a total of 20 subjects (9 MtFs and 11 FtMs), presented for initiation of CHT at the Psychiatric Clinic or Department of Endocrinology of University Hospital of Cagliari and deemed appropriate to take the transition path aimed at sex reassignment. On a subsample of 7 patients (2 MtFs and 5 FtMs) were then evaluated changes, in terms of improving the acceptance of body image, at 2 months after initiation of CHT, using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) (focusing on MF, Gm and Gf scale), the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI), and the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT).The MF scale shows a moderate elevation, which is reduced significantly as a result of correction for perceived gender rather than biological sex. MtFs get higher scores on the Gf scale and lower scores on the Gm scale than FtMs. This trend is confirmed by the average scores of BSRI: MtFs are more “feminine”; while the FtMs are less “masculine”. This denotes an excessive identification by MtFs with the female gender role. Before initiating the CHT, the BUT score was indicative of clinically significant distress, which decreased during the CHT.In conclusion, CHT reduces evidently body discomfort, due to the progressive reduction of the discrepancy between biological and desired gender.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Military culture and sexual issues: The sex-stress phenomenon
Authors: French L. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionSex abuse within the military has long been an open-secret afflicting both male and female veterans whose etiology is often attributed to character deficits (personality disorders or paraphilic disorders). Few studies look at the sex-stress phenomenon as a feature of military life itself and the role this plays in sex abuse within the military milieu. While much attention is focused on US forces, this problem in endemic within military cultures per se. The recent sex abuse scandal involving the French military in the Central African Republic illustrates the pervasiveness of the problem.Objectives/aimsTo explore the psycho-cultural mechanisms of stress and its sexual expression and how certain scenarios within the military milieu exacerbates this impulse-control reaction. To address the relationship of the availability of sex-release options – without and/or without the military population (and how increased enlistment of women has changed the nature of the target population in today's military).MethodsLook at the problem historically (from WWII – present) with particular illustrations. Evaluate common (often failed) approaches to addressing the problem, including the fallacy that superior officer know best how to handle these cases. Explain the psycho/physiology of the sex-stress phenomenon – mechanism of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-gonad axis. Look at the relationship between sex-trauma and suicides among veterans.Results/conclusionsOffer a viable assessment/diagnostic of sexual problems within the military culture along with a treatment model that offers both psychotherapeutic (cognitive-behavioral protocols…) as well as identifying acute clinical symptoms that may respond to psychotropic medications.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his declaration of competing interest.
Diagnostic stability of acute and transient psychotic disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Díaz Á. López , Rus S. Galiano , Iborte A. Soler , López J.I. Aznarte , González J.L. Fernández 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionThe validity and diagnostic stability of acute and transient psychotic disorder (ATPD) has been questioned by several authors, since its introduction in the International Statistical Classification of Diseases (ICD-10).ObjectiveTo determine the overall diagnostic stability of ATPD in scientific literature.MethodA systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies and retrospective chart reviews. Computerized search was performed in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, using the terms: “acute and transient psychotic disorder”, or “acute psychosis”, and “stability”, or “outcome”, or “long-term”, or “follow-up”, or “course”. Search was restricted to works in English published between 1993 and 2015, according to ICD-10 criteria. Opinion articles, individual case reports, researches with less than ten subjects, and overlapping studies were excluded. Data analysis was conducted using MedCalc software, version 15.8. Statistical procedure was calculated for meta-analysis of proportions.ResultsTwenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 10852). For methodological purposes, a distinction was made between short-term (less than 2 years), medium-term (between 2–7 years), and long-term stability (more than 7 years). For short-term group (k = 5), the overall stability was 60.69% (fixed effects model); Cochran's heterogeneity statistic Q = 14.9, I2 = 73.15%, P = 0.0049. For medium-term group (k = 15), it was 49.99%; Q = 181.6, I2 = 92.29%, P < 0.0001. For long-term group (k = 6), it was 61.86%; Q = 35.12, I2 = 92.29%, P < 0.0001.ConclusionThe global stability of ATPD indicates at the validity of the construct, but should be redefined in future revisions of ICD, to clarify better diagnostic criteria, and more predictive power.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Post menopausal women's sexual satisfaction: Effect of oral capsule of mixed Tribulus Terrestris, Zingiber Officinale, Crocus Sativus and Cinnamomum Verum: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Taavoni S. , Nazem Ekbatani N. , Gooshegir S.A. , Haghani H. 
Published: May 2016

Sexual satisfaction decreases during postmenopause life and may improve by various methods of complementary therapy such as use of herbal medicine.AimTo asses the effect of oral capsule of mixed Tribulus Terrestris, Zingiber Officinale, Crocus Sativus and Cinnamomum Verum on postmenopausal women's sexual satisfaction.MethodsIn this triple blind randomized control clinical trial, 80 healthy volunteer postmenopause women with age 50–60 years old in one of clinics of west of Tehran had been involved (year 2013–2014). Participants were randomly assigned to intervention and placebo group and received one month same shape capsules two times in a day. Tools of this study had two main parts of personal characteristics and sexual satisfaction. All ethical points were considered and approved by Ethics committee of Research Institute for Islamic & Complementary Medicine (RICM, IUMS).ResultsAfter a month intervention, there is significant increase in the mean score of sexual satisfaction between two groups (P = 0.01), but when sexual satisfaction compared with pre-menopausal time in two groups, t-test results showed no significant difference (P = 0.16).ConclusionsUse of oral capsule of mixed Tribulus Terrestris, Zingiber Officinale, Crocus Sativus and Cinnamomum Verum two times a day for a month could improve sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women. Referring to no significant change with comparing premenopause time, it sounds they have same satisfaction as premenopause time. There were no side effects during study and one month follow-up. It is suggested to do same research on sexual satisfaction and function with more month intervention.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Sleep quality among medical students
Authors: Gassara I. , Ennaoui R. , Halwani N. , Turki M. , Aloulou J. , Amami O. 
Published: May 2016

IntroductionCollege students seem to be a population group that is increasingly recognized to be at risk of having sleep difficulties. Some studies revealed that medical students, in particular, are believed to be more stressed and sleep deprived than their non-medical peers.AimThe present work aimed at investigating the quality of sleep among medical students at the University College of Medicine in Sfax, Tunisia.MethodsThe study consisted of an anonymous, voluntary survey for a sample of 74 students. A two-part questionnaire was used, including demographic criteria and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a self-rated instrument that measures sleep habits for a month (a total score of 5 or greater is indicative of poor sleep quality).ResultsThe average age was 24 years (range 19–33) with a sex ratio almost equal to 1. In 47.3% of cases, students were married. These latter had at least one child in 34.2% of cases. A total of 39.4% of the students reported being smokers, while 25.6% of them admitted having regular alcohol consumption.Poor sleep quality was reported by 63.5% of students with a PSQI average score of 9.32 ± 3.64.The most correlated factors with poor sleep quality were parenthood (P = 0.031), alcohol consumption (P = 0.004) and stressful studies (P = 0.02).ConclusionPoor sleep quality was pervasive among surveyed medical students and this seemed to be in relationship with some factors. This study points to the need for further evaluation of medical students’ sleep problems in order to improve their performance and their quality of life as well.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Description of the autolitic acts attended in a mental health unit in 2014
Authors: Alvarez Montoya A.M. , Diago Labrador C. , Ruano Hernandez T. 
Published: May 2016

ObjectiveThe objective of the study is the analysis and the description of patients who committed autolitic acts and were attended in a mental health hospital unit in 2014.MethodWe analyze the patient registry for the attended emergencies in our mental health hospital unit, extracting the following variables: gender distribution, age range, type of method applied in the attempt and diagnosis based on DSM-IV TR.ResultsThe study reveals a larger share of autolitic acts in the feminine population between 14 and 69 years old. A total of 31 patients needed to be attended in an emergency hospital unit (11.74%). The most common method is the medical substance abuse (23 patients, 74.19% from the admitted patients in our Mental Health Hospitalary Unit). The diagnoses in order of frequency were; affective disorders (13 patients, 41.93%), personality disorders (8 patients, 25.80%), adaptative disorders (7 patients, 22.58%) and psychotics disorders (3 patients, 9.68%).ConclusionOur population-based sample confirms the epidemiologic data found in the consulted literature as well as in other population groups.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.