bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The development and use of a standardized assessment of abnormal personality
Authors: Mann A. H. , Jenkins R. , Cutting J. C. , Cowen P. J. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisA standardized assessment of personality (SAP) based on interview with an informant has been developed to classify a patient's premorbid personality in clinical terms for use for research purposes in or out of a hospital setting. Three preliminary investigations of its use are reported. These indicate that an informant's account of personality can be rated reliably by psychiatrists and is consistent over time. The addition of two extra descriptive types to the schema of ICD Section 301, the anxious and the self-conscious personalities, is found to contribute usefully to a taxonomy of personality in two series of patients investigated with the SAP. Further investigations are indicated to determine the accuracy of an informant's account before epidemiological studies with this instrument can be considered.
Psychosis after acute alteration of thyroid status
Authors: Bewsher P. D. , Gardiner A. Q. , Hedley A. J. , Maclean H. C. S. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISA case of acute schizophrenic psychosis developing during the treatment of hyper-thyroidism with carbimazole is described. The patient was clinically and biochemically euthyroid at the time the psychosis developed. It is suggested that an acute alteration in thyroid status, without necessarily producing hyper- or hypothyroidism, may be sufficient to induce a psychotic reaction.
Tryptophan metabolism in depressive illness
Authors: Coppen Alec , Brooksbank Benjamin W. L. , Eccleston Eric , Peet Malcolm , White Stuart G. 
Published: July 2009

SYSNOPSIS[Methylene-14C]-L-tryptophan was administered intravenously to five patients suffering from severe depression before and after clinical recovery, and to six control subjects; all subjects were tested while on a standard diet. [14C]-5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid and [14C]-indoleacetic acid were isolated from urine during the following 48 hours and purified to constant specific radioactivity (SA). From the SA and the determination of the total excretion of the two acids their percentage conversion from labelled tryptophan was estimated. There was no consistent difference found, in patients before and after recovery, or between patients and controls, in the conversion of tryptophan to these indole acids. In another series of 11 depressive patients and 11 controls, plasma total (acid-soluble) tryptophan was measured at frequent intervals up to three hours after intravenous administration of a loading dose (1 g) of L-tryptophan. The height of the curves of plasma tryptophan throughout the three hour period was greater than in the depressive patients, even after they had recovered, than in the controls. It is concluded that the apparent volume of distribution of tryptophan is reduced in depressive individuals. This is consistent with other findings of increased protein-binding of plasma tryptophan and reduced CSF tryptophan levels in depressive patients.
Plasma prolactin and luteinizing hormone levels in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Beumont P. J. V. , Friesen H. G. , Gelder M. G. , Kolakowska T. 
Published: July 2009

SYSNOPSISFive emaciated patients suffering from anorexia nervosa were studied. Mean plasma prolactin levels, as measured by radioimmunoassay, were within the normal range, although mean plasma levels of luteinizing hormone were depressed. This association is of interest as it suggests that basal levels of circulating prolactin are not affected by the hypothalamic disorder found in patients with anorexia nervosa.
Aspects of tyrosine metabolism in schizophrenia
Authors: Williams C. H. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISDisordered amine metabolism is frequently suggested as being of aetiological significance in schizophrenia. The present study investigates the effects of loading doses of the cate-cholamine precursor L-tyrosine in this illness. Groups of schizophrenic and control subjects were given loading doses of L-tyrosine after which plasma tyrosine levels and excretion of some tyrosine metabolities were measured. In only one parameter, excretion of free p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, was any significant difference observed between the groups. The study is discussed in relation to some of the biochemical theories advanced from time to time for schizophrenia.
Developmental dyscalculia: a brief report on four cases
Authors: Slade P. D. , Russell G. F. M. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISFour patients with ‘developmental dyscalculia’ are described who were initially identified on the basis of clinical tests, reports of longstanding and severe difficulties in arithmetic, and psychological test results. Descriptive psychological testing indicated (1) that the arithmetical deficits could not be accounted for on the basis of a generally low level of intellectual functioning; (2) that of the four basic arithmetical processes that of multiplication was relatively more deficient; (3) that this relative deficiency in multiplication stemmed from a faulty grasp of basic multiplication tables; that this was a real difficulty, experienced subjectively by the patient, and one that could not be accounted for simply by carelessness; and finally, that the degree of difficulty experienced varied with the multiplication table involved. Two kinds of attempt were made to improve arithmetical functioning. The first involved brief remedial coaching programmes directed at the basic multiplication tables: relatively little success was obtained with this method. The second kind of attempt involved methods of bypassing the necessity for learning multiplication tables: some success was obtained with these methods. The discussion concentrates on some of the features which may provide possibly useful cues for identifying ‘developmental dyscalculia’: these are classified in terms of: (1) pattern of deficit displayed; (2) qualitative features of arithmetical performance; and (3) response to remedial teaching. Some suggestions are made concerning further lines of investigation.
Suggestions for further improvement of the international classification of mental disorders
Authors: Essen-Möller Erik 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISThe 8th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) favoured classification of mental disorders by a combination of predominant syndrome and predominant aetiology. However, this important principle has been carried through incompletely, to the disadvantage of diagnostic flexibility and innovation. In addition, too much work is required for the retrieval of cases with the same aetiology irerspective of the syndromes they exhibit, or of cases with the same syndrome whether in the setting of a personality disorder, a neurosis, or a psychosis. The present paper suggests certain simplifications by which the principle of combined classification can hopefully be applied to develop a more comprehensive and flexible instrument.
Preliminary Communication: 1: Declining-dose drug desensitization for phobias
Authors: McCormick W. O. , O'Gorman E. C. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISThe use of a technique of Declining-dose Drug Desensitization (DDDD) in phobic patients is described. An anti-anxiety drug is used (diazepam), the blood level declining during each treatment session and the starting dose for each treatment session being gradually reduced. Some relevant animal work on state-dependent learaing in the drugged-state is briefly reviewed. Despite the multiplicity of other treatments available this method would appear to have some advantages.
The occurrence of the syndrome of anorexia nervosa in male subjects
Authors: Beumont P. J. V. , Beardwood C. J. , Russell G. F. M. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisA syndrome characterized by the psychopathological features of anorexia nervosa occurs in male subjects. There have been 25 cases previously reported in the literature which appear to be fairly typical of the condition and the present paper adds the case histories of another six patients. Endocrine investigation on these patients reveals a disorder of urinary excretion levels of testosterone and of total gonadotrophic activity, which is comparable to the disturbance of sex hormones that accompanies the menstrual disturbance of female patients with anorexia nervosa. The exact nature of the endocrine disturbance in the male, however, is still less well understood than that in the female.
An epidemiological evaluation of a public health measure aimed at reducing the availability of methylamphetamine
Authors: de Alarcón R. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisThis paper attempts to show how a public health measure, by reducing production and withdrawing methylamphetamine (Methedrine) from retail pharmacists, dramatically affected the prevalence of its abuse in a provincial population. This measure coincided with the midpoint of a four-year survey into drug abuse which was being carried out in that area. This opportune timing created a natural experiment whereby it became possible to observe and measure the short- and long-term effects of a single social factor on one form of abnormal behaviour.
Inhibition of entry of some amino acids into the brain, with observations on mental retardation in the aminoacidurias
Authors: Baños Guadalupe , Daniel P. M. , Moorhouse S. R. , Pratt O. E. 
Published: July 2009

SYSNOPSISAbnormally high levels of various amino acids were maintained in the bloodstream of rats, causing saturation of amino acid transport into the brain and partial exclusion from the brain of other amino acids which are necessary for protein synthesis. Excluded amino acids could be made to enter the brain by raising their concentration in the bloodstream. The possible relevance of these findings to improvements in the dietary treatment of some inborn errors of metabolism is discussed.
The history of psychosomatic medicine
Authors: Ackerknecht Erwin H. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisPsychosomatic medicine begins with the Greeks. It finds a place in Galen's system as diseases of passion, a concept current until the middle of the nineteenth century. The great French and German clinicians of the nineteenth century were all familiar with psychosomatic diseases. During the twentieth century the field was for a while monopolized by psychoanalysts. The psychosomatic specialist is essentially the doctor who listens to the patient.
The role of social factors in affective disorder: an assessment of the vulnerability model of Brown and his colleagues
Authors: Solomon Zahava , Bromet Evelyn 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisThe present study attempted to confirm the vulnerability model proposed by Brown and his colleagues, using data from a survey of 435 mothers from two semi-rural regions of Pennsylvania. The results were not consistent with the earlier findings. Methodological and conceptual issues were discussed to explain the differences in results.
Plotting n-dimensional psychiatric data in 2 dimensions using Andrews' method
Authors: Cairns Victoria 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisAndrews' method of plotting n-dimensional data in 2 dimensions allows one to summarize all the data on one patient using a single curve. Comparisons have been made between different diagnostic groups on the basis of the 12 scales from the In-patient Multidimensional Psychiatric Scale (IMPS) using data from a sample of 787 newly admitted in-patients. For each diagnostic group, a figure was produced containing the Andrews' curves from all the patients in the group. Those groups that were particularly homogeneous or heterogeneous were noted. The main features of the different groups could be discerned.
An attempt to determine the impact of four types of care upon the elderly in London by the study of matched groups
Authors: Macdonald A. J. D. , Mann A. H. , Jenkins R. , Richard L. , Godlove C. , Rodwell G. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisGroups of elderly people, matched by level of dependency and probability of dementia, were identified in day centres, day hospitals, wards, and local authority homes, and followed up over 9 months to determine the impact of type of care upon outcome. No difference in mortality or changes in dementia scores were found, but the survivors' levels of dependency improved most in day centres and local authority homes. This finding, and the problems of matching, are discussed.
Innovations in social psychiatry
Authors: Wing J. K. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISSocial psychiatry, like social medicine of which it is a part, has two basic sciences – biology and sociology. People with psychiatric disorders suffer from acute breakdowns or chronic impairments which can be severely disabling in themselves, but these are often precipitated, amplified or maintained by social pressures and social disadvantages and by personal reactions, such as a loss of self-esteem and self-confidence. It is impossible, therefore, to draw a line between the medical and the social aspects of treatment, care and prevention.The chief innovations during the past 40 years have been made in the context of a change-over from a system of care based on large institutions towards a more open but much looser and less-coordinated system of smaller units managed by staff from different professions who have developed their own, sometimes conflicting, views as to the best ways of helping the mentally disabled. Nevertheless, knowledge has accumulated which, if properly applied, could lead to a better quality of life for the ill and disabled and a decrease in the burden placed upon relatives. Further innovations are now required which will lead to the development of a responsible, comprehensive and integrated mental health service.It is not yet known whether social measures taken to relieve or prevent lesser psychiatric disorders will lead to a decrease in the incidence or prevalence of more severe conditions and this question deserves further investigation. There is evidence, however, that relatively inexpensive help can be useful in the short term.Progress will depend upon the accumulation of new knowledge. One of the most encouraging trends has been the improvement of evaluative designs and methods aimed at testing ideas for improving services, thus allowing planners to make better informed decisions.
Social adjustment after rehabilitation: a two year follow-up of patients with severe head injury
Authors: Weddell Roger , Oddy Michael , Jenkins David 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISForty-four young adults, admitted to a rehabilitation centre after very severe head injury, were followed-up 2 years after their accident. Comparison with a control group showed that the head injured had experienced marked changes in work, leisure activities, contact with friends and family life. Though these changes still created problems, the majority of patients and relatives appeared to have made a number of successful adaptations to their altered situation. Neurophysical status, personality change and memory loss all affected work capacity, while presence of personality changes was especially important in the loss of pre-accident friendships.
Follow-up 10 years later of 34 Klinefelter males with karyotype 47,XXY and 16 hypogonadal males with karyotype 46,XY
Authors: Nielsen Johannes , Johnsen Svend G. , Sørensen Kurt 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISA 10-year follow-up study is reported of 50 hypogonadal males, 34 of whom had the karyotype 47,XXY and 16 karyotype 46,XY. The social class of the former group was significantly lower and the frequency of criminal behaviour higher when compared with the latter group and the Danish male population. The frequency of mental illness was higher in the Klinefelter males with karyotype 47,XXY than in the remainder. The aetiology and pathogenesis of deviant mental development in the patient population and various aspects of their treatment are discussed.
Meditation and the EEG
Authors: West Michael A. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISPrevious research on meditation and the EEG is described, and findings relating to EEG patterns during meditation are discussed. Comparisons of meditation with other altered states are reviewed and it is concluded that, on the basis of existing EEG evidence, there is some reason for differentiating between meditation and drowsing. Research on alpha-blocking and habituation of the blocking response during meditation is reviewed, and the effects of meditation on EEG patterns outside of meditation are described. In conclusion, the need for more precisely formulated research is pointed out.
Changes in rating behaviour during the learning of a standardized psychiatric interview
Authors: Von Cranach M. , Cooper J. E. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisThe rating behaviour of eight psychiatrists was studied while they learned to use a standardized psychiatric clinical interview schedule. Their progress was followed during live interviews, and also by their ratings of videotape interviews. Significant and consistent changes towards the standards of the teachers were demonstrated, as was a universal tendency to pass through a phase of rating at a higher level of abnormality than the standards they were trying to approach.
Comparison of amantadine, orphenadrine, and placebo in the control of phenothiazine-induced Parkinsonism
Authors: Mindham R. H. S. , Gaind R. , Anstee B. H. , Rimmer Lorna 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisA double-blind comparison was made of the effects of amantadine hydrochloride, orphenadrine hydrochloride, and placebo in the control of the effects on the extrapyramidal nervous system of fluphenazine decanoate. Patients were assessed with regard to the main symptoms of Parkinsonism, the leading clinical signs, performance in walking, writing and squeezing, changes in mood, and unwanted effects of medication. Neither of the pharmacologically active substances was superior to placebo. Attention is drawn to the paucity of evidence for the effectiveness of anti-cholinergic drugs in both Parkinson's disease and in drug-induced Parkinsonism. The special difficulties in performing trials of substances used in relieving the unwanted effects of other drugs are discussed in relationship to defects in methodology in both this and earlier trials. The findings of the present study are not conclusive but show a clear need for further research in this field. The possible theoretical and practical importance of such research is discussed.
WHO International Pilot Study of Schizophrenia
Authors: Sartorius N. , Shapiro R. , Kimura M. , Barrett K. 
Published: July 2009

SynopsisThe results are described of a transcultural psychiatric study of schizophrenia undertaken by WHO in nine countries. The study proved that such a collaboration was feasible, that it was possible to develop research procedures for international use, and that similar types of schizophrenia could be found in each of the countries involved. One thousand two hundred and two patients were studied and over 2 million items of information obtained.
Part 2. A logical analysis of the medico-psychological concept of disease
Authors: Taylor F. Kräupl 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISWhen no endopathological abnormalities are available to serve as classifying criteria, symptom clusters are generally used as substitutes. They then form the core of particular functional diseases, especially in psychiatry. The selection of symptom clusters on the basis of clinical impression is the predominant procedure, but it is subjective and arbitrary. To remedy this shortcoming, cluster-searching methods of a sophisticated statistical nature have been introduced, though they have not so far been conspicuously successful. In some functional psychiatric diseases, such as phobic neurosis, depressive neurosis, war neurosis, and compensation neurosis, exopathological environmental, but normal, events form the classifying criteria. They are presumed to activate idiosyncratic endopathological predispositions. The classification of organic diseases relies on endopathological and inherited exopathological abnormalities as classifying criteria. As an illustration of the establishment of an inherited exopathological disease, the discovery of phenylketonuria as a clinical sign and the gradual elucidation of its pathogenesis are described.
Dependence of schizophrenic patients on elderly relatives
Authors: Stevens Barbara C. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISAs part of a survey of the need for rehabilitation services in Camberwell, a representative group of 56 unemployed psychiatric patients were selected from the Camberwell Register during 1968; most of these were chronic schizophrenics, and 29, or just over half of them, were living with their parents or siblings. This paper describes a special analysis made by a medical sociologist into the problems of these 29 patients as perceived by their relatives. Assessment of the patient's handicaps and the burden felt by the family showed a dependence on parents of pensionable age which is an obstacle to rehabilitation. Patients were content, but relatives were dissatisfied and experienced considerable financial burden and symptoms of reactive anxiety and depression. The need for special services is emphasized to help the patient towards a more independent existence when the relative dies.
A study of the association between quality of maternal care and infant development
Authors: Roberts C. J. , Rowley J. R. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISThe investigation described in this paper considers the influence of social class and the infant's birth order on maternal care, and then, in the light of these findings, examines the association between quality of maternal care and infant development. The study population comprised 89% of all births during an 18-month period in a defined administrative area in Glamorganshire. Possible explanations for the findings are discussed.
The questionnaire measurement of psychoticism
Authors: Eysenck S. B. G. , Eysenck H. J. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISA study is reported of a random sample of 170 normal men and 192 normal women who were given a 110-item questionnaire incorporating items intended to measure personality variables P (psychoticism), N (neuroticism), E (extraversion), and L (a lie and dissimulation scale). Factor analysis of the intercorrelations between items disclosed a clear-cut psychoticism factor, relatively independent of the others. The rationale and the psychiatric importance of this factor are discussed.
Behavioural changes after treatment with testosterone: case report
Authors: Beumont P. J. V. , Bancroft J. H. J. , Beardwood C. J. , Russell G. F. M. 
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSISA male patient is described whose loss of sexual interest and activity was due to gonadal failure, presumably the result partly of Klinefelter's syndrome and partly of orchitis, though the latter was unilateral. He showed no change during a placebo control period, but within a few days of starting replacement treatment with testosterone he reported a return of sexual interest and showed a response to sexually arousing stimuli; sexual attitudes also improved. This case is of interest because of the specific and rapid psychological response to the correction of an androgen deficiency.
School refusal, truancy, and adult neurotic illness
Authors: Tyrer Peter , Tyrer Stephen 
Published: July 2009

SYSNOPSISTwo hundred and forty adult psychiatric patients, comprising 60 phobic, 60 anxious, and 120 depressed patients, were interviewed about problems of school attendance during their childhood. Using a specially designed questionnaire, non-attendance due to school refusal was swparated from that due to truancy. A control population of 120 orthopaedic and dental patients, matched for age and sex with the psychiatric sample, was also interviewed. It was found that school refusal had occurred significantly more often among the psychiatric patients than among the controls (P < 0·05). The incidence of truancy was similar in both groups. Both school refusal and truancy had occurred more frequently in female than in male patients. The results suggest that, contrary to some studies, there is a link between childhood and adult neurotic disorders and that some children who present with problems of school refusal are at risk in adult life.