bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Metabolic health in patients with schizophrenia – CVD risk in a Norwegian outpatient population
Authors: Engh J. , Andersen E. , Martinsen E. , Egeland J. , Holmen T.L. , Bigseth T.T. , Bang-Kittilsen G. 
Published: June 2017

The mortality of schizophrenia patients is approximately twice that of the general population and there is a 20% reduction in life expectancy in this patient group. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is responsible for as much as 50% of the excess mortality associated with schizophrenia. One important source of the high CVD prevalence is the cluster of metabolic characteristics defining the metabolic syndrome (MetS: 3 or more of the following features: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, elevated levels of triglycerides and fasting glucose and low levels of high-density lipoproteins). Patients with schizophrenia seem to be undertreated for these vascular risk factors relative to the general population. More knowledge is needed concerning broadened risk factors of cardiovascular disease in a representative sample of schizophrenia patients. We conducted preliminary cross sectional analyses in a sample of 64 consecutive outpatients with schizophrenia with a mean age of 37 years consisting of 59% men, who were enrolled in a treatment study. All used antipsychotics, and 71% were smokers. We found that (percentage of patients under treatment for the respective somatic condition in parenthesis) 82% were overweight, 49% had hypertonia (17%), 24% hyperglycemia (3%), 48% hypertriglyceridemia and 13% hyperlipidemia (10% triglycerid or cholesterol lowering medication). Forty percent had metabolic syndrome compared to 11% in the normal population (Norway, age corrected). Additionally, estimates of insulin resistance will be conducted. We found that the prevalence of MetS components was high in outpatient schizophrenia. A substantial discrepancy was found between metabolic ill health and medication treatment of such conditions.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Frontotemporal dementia misdiagnosed as schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder
Authors: Giamarelou A. , Polychronopoulos P. , Skokou M. , Messinis L. , Gourzis P. 
Published: June 2017

IntroductionFrontotemporal dementia (FTD) encompasses a group of clinical features that include personality and behavior changes (disinhibition, social isolation, antisocial behavior, compulsion) and executive dysfunction (poor planning, loss of judgment and loss of insight). These features may lead to an incorrect diagnosis of a primary psychiatric disorder.ObjectivesTo emphasize the difficulties in making a clinical distinction between early frontotemporal dementia and other psychiatric diseases.MethodsWe describe 11 patients who suffered from FTD, while initially had diagnosed with primary psychiatric disorders. The correct diagnosis was achieved by psychiatric and neuropsychological evaluations (WAIS SCALE, ACE-R, MMSE), neuroimaging studies (MRI 7/11, SPECT 8/11) and applying the international consensus criteria for FTD.ResultsAll patients (5 males and 6 females) were initially diagnosed with psychiatric disorders: schizophrenia (2/11), bipolar disorders (4/11), depression (5/11), schizoaffective disorder (1/11), somatization disorder (1/11), personality disorders (2/11), malingering (1/11), alcohol dependence (1/11), while 5 patients had more than one diagnosis. The age of onset varied from 19 to 53 years old. Final diagnosis of FTD was delayed on average 6,5 years from the onset of symptoms.ConclusionClinicians should be familiar with the clinical entity of FTD and its difficult distinction from other psychiatric disorders. A possible hospitalization of a patient with FTD in a psychiatric department and the social impact that it brings may be avoided. On the other hand, the proper care of FTD patients (pharmacological and psychosocial) improves the quality of life of patients and their caregivers.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Antipsychotic polypharmacy among schizophrenia outpatients
Authors: Maatallah H. , Ammar H. Ben , Aissa A. , Nefzi R. , Said M. , Hechmi Z. El 
Published: June 2017

IntroductionSince their introduction by Delay and Deniker in the 1950s, neuroleptic drugs have significantly modified the evolutionary prognosis of schizophrenia. Their combination has also become a widespread practice.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to analyze the associations of neuroleptic drugs by describing the characteristics of types and doses, understanding the reasons for these associations and studying the relationship existing in such situation regarding adherence to treatment, tolerance and the number of hospitalizations.MethodsOur study was retrospective, descriptive and analytical. It has been conducted from March, 1st to May, 30th 2015 and involved 70 stabilized patients diagnosed with schizophrenia according to DSM 5. Clinical characteristics were collected from patients and their medical records. Evaluations were conducted using PANSS, MARS and GAS.ResultsOverall, 70 male patients were recruited. The mean age was 40 years old: 30% received classical monotherapy while 70% were treated only by an atypical antipsychotic. Among patients receiving two drugs, 85% received classical bitherapy while 9% were under both classical and atypical drugs. Only 6% received atypical bitherapy. Chlorpromazine equivalent doses in case of monotherapy was 325.92 mg/day, while it reached 1148.65 mg/day in case of drugs association. Administration of a combined therapy had poor tolerance rate and all patients suffered from adverse effects. Adherence to treatment was better while receiving monotherapy (88% versus 45%) and the number of hospitalizations was lower with an average of 3 against 10.ConclusionOur study revealed several shortcomings in our current management of patients with schizophrenia and addressed the implication of socioeconomic status on therapeutic outcomes.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Treatment patterns in schizophrenia: Clinical case of successful management with a series of long acting injectable antipsychotics
Authors: Palomo Monge M. , Calvo Mauri J.F. , Tascon Guerra M.F. , Duque Domínguez A. , Díaz Conde S. , Padilla Romero P. , Alcocer Lanza M.F. , Ochoa Blanco R. , Lara de Lucas B. 
Published: June 2017

IntroductionWe report the successful management of a 57-year-old woman with a 20 year diagnostic of paranoid schizophrenia (first visit November, 1995). She presented several comorbidities (arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus and morbid obesity), with a history of five previous hospitalizations (1995, 2012, January and May 2014, and April 2016).Aims/methodsThe patient was always prescribed depot antipsychotics: she was treated for 14 years with Zuclopentixol depot (discontinued due to dermic adverse reactions and weight gain). After a period with oral paliperidone (from 2012 until 2013) and due to lack of adherence to oral therapy, in August 2013 she was prescribed paliperidone palmitate. The treatment was discontinued after nine months (May 2014) due to weight gain, a significant increase of serum prolactin levels and two psychotic relapses that led to hospital admissions.ResultsShe was then prescribed Fluphenazine decanoate depot for one year and 4 months, but she was switched to Aripiprazole once monthly (AOM) in September 2015 to avoid metabolic syndrome.ConclusionsNon-personalized antipsychotic treatment in a patient with a complicated comorbidity history can result in lack of compliance and a risk of relapse, and in a worsening of her medical conditions, with the consequential negative impact in her functioning and quality of life. Based on our results, the treatment with AOM resulted in a positive evolution of the patient, with a good tolerability profile, in an improvement of treatment-caused adverse events (weight loss, and prolactin serum levels normalization); all factors that enable treatment adherence and good clinical response.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Patients with schizophrenia assessing psychiatrists’ communication skills
Authors: Pestana Santos A. , Santos V. , Carvalho I. 
Published: June 2017

The doctor-patient relationship constitutes the matrix of the entire medical practice. One way in which doctors develop a positive rapport with their patients is through appropriate communication. Evidence suggests that doctors do not communicate with their patients as they should. Important gaps are observed in doctors’ communication with patients with schizophrenia.AimExamine psychiatrists’ communication skills as assessed by their patients with schizophrenia and through external observation, considering patients’ socio-demographic and clinical variables and analyse the importance that aspects of communication have for patients.MethodologyThis cross-sectional study involved a sample of 30 patients and 11 doctors. An adapted and culturally validated version of the Communication Assessment Tool was used for data collection. Data were analysed in IBM SPSS Statistics®, version 24.ResultsMale patients constituted 86.7% of the sample and mean age was 46.7 ± 13.3. The overall mean percentage of items rated as excellent by patients was 57.4%. On the other hand, external observer percentage of excellent scores was much lower when compared with patients’ scores. Single, divorced or widower/widow patients, patients with higher educational level and patients with shorter number of years in medical treatment gave significantly higher scores to psychiatrists’ communication. Patients’ sex, age, occupation residence and family type did not yield statistically significant effects on patients’ ratings.ConclusionsCommunication is at the heart of psychiatrists’ daily practice. Many communication styles might be needed, depending on the nature of clinical encounters and patient expectations. Specific training is required to optimise psychiatrists’ communication skills on everyday practice.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Nicotine dependence is associated with depression and childhood trauma in smokers with schizophrenia. Results from the Face-SZ dataset
Authors: Rey R. , D’amato T. , Llorca P.M. , Fond G. 
Published: June 2017

IntroductionIn a perspective of personalized care for smoking cessation, a better clinical characterization of smokers with schizophrenia (SZ) is needed. The objective of this study was to determine the clinical characteristics of SZ smokers with severe nicotine (NIC) dependence.MethodsTwo hundred and forty stabilized community-dwelling SZ smokers (mean age = 31.9 years, 80.4% male gender) were consecutively included in the network of the FondaMental Expert Centers for schizophrenia and assessed with validated scales. Severe NIC dependence was defined by a Fagerstrom questionnaire score ≥7. Major depression was defined by a Calgary score ≥6. Childhood trauma was self-reported by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire score (CTQ). Ongoing psychotropic treatment was recorded.ResultsSevere NIC dependence was identified in 83 subjects (34.6%), major depression in 60 (26.3%). 44 (22.3%) subjects were treated by antidepressants. In a multivariate model, severe NIC dependence remained associated with major depression (OR = 3.155, P = 0.006), male gender (OR = 4.479, P = 0.009) and more slightly with childhood trauma (OR = 1.032, P = 0.044), independently of socio-demographic characteristics, psychotic symptoms severity, psychotropic treatments and alcohol disorder.ConclusionNIC dependence was independently and strongly associated with respectively major depression and male gender in schizophrenia, and only slightly with history of childhood trauma. Based on these results, the care of both nicotine dependence and depression should be evaluated for an effective smoking cessation intervention in schizophrenia. Bupropion, an antidepressant that has been found as the potential most effective strategy for tobacco cessation in schizophrenia to date, may be particularly relevant in male SZ smokers with comorbid major depression.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Urban Spaces and psychic disease: A case series from Florence
Authors: Rondini E. , Bertelli M. 
Published: June 2017

People with schizophrenia or other psychoses present alterations of multi-sensory processing and impairments in cognitive functions. They seem to be more sensitive to external stimuli than the general population, which can negatively impact on their emotional state. The purpose of the study was to assess how elements of urban milieu combine with spatial experiences of people with these disorders, affecting their spatial perceptions and social interactions. The group of participants consisted of 10 patients aged between 20 and 40 years, with schizophrenia or other psychoses. We used qualitative methods to assess behaviours in different urban routes, including a period of participant observation and a series of semi-structured interviews. Pathways within the city were recorded using a Global Position System (GPS), in order to link perceptual and behavioural data to specific urban spaces. The data analysis has revealed positive interactions between most of participants and the city. Different places have been differently perceived in terms of stress and comfort. The wide squares and the art-rich sites of the city center, as well as public parks and gardens, have been connected with positive feelings and senses of pleasure. Conversely, the presence of a high number of people and the movement experiences through public transport services have emerged to be associated with negative emotions. A deeper understanding of mechanisms and processes that interest the link between urban space and psychological disease can contribute to show new directions for the improvement of urban life quality and to progress both in psychiatry and in urban planning.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Restraint or not restraint. Involuntary transport from home of schizophrenic patients
Authors: Samso B. , Ramos S. , Malagón A. , Gonzalez A. , Bellsolà M. , León J. , Llobet M. , Alba L. , Pérez V. , Martín L.M. , Córcoles D. 
Published: June 2017

IntroductionAlthough physical restraint (PR) is a non-rarely practice on psychiatry there are few studies that focus the attention on the risk factors for this intervention. PR is a legitimacy practice when is needed and well applied but is not free from side effects. Knowing risk factors might be useful to improve the application of PR.ObjectivesStudy the risk factors involved with the use of PR at patient's home in individuals with schizophrenia before the involuntary transport (IT) to a psychiatric facility.MethodsIs a descriptive and observational study of 267 psychotic patients that were assisted by a psychiatric home care unit (EMSE) in Barcelona during their IT. The sample was divided in two groups, depending on the need of PR. Socio-demographic data were collected as well as positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS), WHO disability assessment schedule (WHO/DAS), global assessment of functioning scale (GAF), Scale to assess unawareness of mental disorder (SUMD). Aggressiveness was assessed by PANSS-EC consisting of 5 items: excitement, tension, hostility, uncooperativeness and poor impulse.ResultsFrom the 267 psychotic patients 109 required PR. 154 were male and the average of age was 47. The results were significant in the PR group versus no PR for PANSS-EC (P = 0.000), as well as WHO/DAS (P = 0.017), GAF (P = 0.042), Positive PANSS (P = 0.000), age (P = 0.001) and substance use (P = 0.012). Were no significant for gender, insight or Negative PANSS.ConclusionsAggressiveness and violence were the most important PR related factors followed by positive symptoms, age, substance use and global functioning.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Emotional Eating in Eating Disorders and Obesity: Sensorial, Hormonal and Brain Factors Involved
Authors: Fernandez-Aranda F. , Steward T. , Mallorqui-Bague N. , Agüera Z. , Jimenez-Murcia S. 
Published: June 2017

Obesity (OB) and eating disorders (ED) are two complex weight/eating conditions that share phenotypic traits, including psychopathological variables, specific environmental risk factors and biological vulnerabilities. Both OB and ED are associated with maladaptive eating styles that may be relevant to their development and maintenance. In abnormal/excessive eating behavior, a complex interplay among physiological, sensorial, psychological, social and genetic factors influence appetite, meal timing, and the quantity of food intake and food preferences. Neurobiological functioning has also been found to be altered in extreme weight conditions, namely with regards to reward processing, emotion regulation and decision making. In this presentation we will discuss the relevance of such components as well their interaction using findings from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies conducted in extreme eating/weight conditions, when compared with healthy controls. The development of innovative treatments considering neurobiological factors will also be covered.AcknowledgmentResearchers supported by FIS (PI14/290) and CIBEROBN from ISCIII. Spain.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Sleep disturbances, mental toughness, and physical activity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) compared to healthy adolescents and young adults
Authors: Sadeghi Bahmani D. , Gerber M. , Kalak N. , Lemola S. , Clough P.J. , Calabrese P. , Holsboer-Trachsler E. , Brand S. 
Published: June 2017

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is the commonest chronic autoimmune demyelinating and inflammatory disease of the CNS, afflicting both body and mind. Typical symptoms are fatigue, paraesthesia and depression, along with cognitive impairments. Whereas there is extant research on fatigue, depression, and cognitive impairment of patients with MS during the clinical course, no research focused on sleep, psychological functioning, and physical activity (PA) at the moment of the diagnose. The aims of the present study were therefore to assess possible state markers of mental toughness (MT) as a dimension of psychological functioning, sleep disturbances (SD), PA among patients at the moment of the diagnose, and to compare these data with those of healthy adolescents and healthy young adults.MethodsA total of 23 patients with recently diagnosed MS (M = 32.31 years), 23 healthy adolescents (M = 17.43 years), and 25 healthy young adults (M = 20.72 years) took part in the study. They completed questionnaires covering socio-demographic data, MT, SD, and PA.ResultsPatients with MS reported similar MT traits as adolescents, and an equal amount of moderate PA and SD as young adults. Further, patients reported a lower level of vigorous PA, compared to healthy adolescents and young adults.ConclusionsCompared to healthy adolescents and young adults, patients at the moment of the diagnose of MS reported similar MT traits, SD and moderate PA. The pattern of results suggests that at the moment of the diagnose MS is not predictable by poor MT, poor sleep, and decreased level of moderate PA.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Chronic methiopropamine modifies preference of choice in rat gambling task
Authors: Yoon H.S. , Kim W.Y. , Ku M.J. , Cho B.R. , Kwak M.J. , Kim J.H. 
Published: June 2017

Introduction and aimsRat gambling task (rGT) is a recently developed animal model making translational research possible in psychiatric disorders related to decision-making deficits. Methiopropamine (MPA) is a structural analog to methamphetamine and a temporary controlled substance. Although increasing concerns have been raised regarding MPA's abuse, few sources of information exist regarding its psychopharmacology. Thus, we investigated whether MPA produces any changes in the choice of preference in rGT.MethodsRats were trained in a touch screen chamber to learn the relationships between 4 different light signals on the screen and accompanied reward outcomes and punishments set up with different schedules, for one session of 30 min each day. Once animals showed a stabilized pattern of preference, they were given a total of 5 IP injections (a single injection per day, every other day) with saline or MPA followed by 2 weeks of withdrawal. Upon MPA challenge injection, their preference of choice was re-tested in rGT chambers.ResultsDepending upon their preference of choice, rats were separated as risk-averse or risk-seeking groups. When they were pre-exposed to and challenged with MPA, rats in the risk-averse group significantly changed their preference toward more disadvantageous choices. These effects were not shown when they were pre-exposed to saline and challenged with MPA.ConclusionsThese results indicate that MPA badly influences decision-making behavior as in gambling task, implying that it may aggravate pathological symptoms of bad choices, resulting in negative consequences, observed in the patients with behavioral addictions.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
Amy Winehouse Foundation young persons’ substance use survey–pilot findings
Authors: Ofori-Attah G. , Knights N. , Mazhari T. 
Published: June 2017

IntroductionGovernment-funded research indicates the prevalence of substance use in this age group is decreasing. However, anecdotal evidence suggests otherwise.Previous surveys have been limited by:— difficulty recruiting schools;— the range of substances included;— paper surveys.ObjectivesTo determine whether a secure online survey method improves substance use prevalence data collection in school age adolescents.MethodAn online survey was created following literature review, and assessment of the reliability and validity of existing surveys. A comprehensive range of substances were included. A total of 750 students (11–16 yrs) from a mainstream school in Lancashire completed the survey during a supervised classroom session. Focus groups were conducted with students and teachers.ResultsNo technical problems were encountered and survey data was securely transferred to Excel allowing instant analysis.Teachers felt the survey would be unproblematic to administer independently and found the inclusion of substances such as legal highs, and energy drinks, especially relevant.Most students completed the survey within the session and reported a positive experience, although some difficulties understanding wording were mentioned. They felt an online survey improved confidentiality (and therefore honesty) and was easier to fill in. However, there was concern about teachers reading their responses.ConclusionsA secure online survey may be acceptable to both teachers and students, and enables the collection of hundreds of surveys in a short time period. It also improves analysis techniques.Further analysis of whether there is a teacher-versus-researcher supervision effect on the honesty of student responses is required.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.