bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Facial affect recognition: Electrophysiological findings in schizophrenia
Authors: Komlosi S. , Csukly G. , Stefanics G. , Czigler I. , Czobor P. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionWhile deficits in facial emotion recognition in schizophrenia have consistently been shown, the underlying neuronal mechanisms remain unclear. Electrophysiological measures, such as event-related brain potentials related to facial emotion recognition yield insight into the time course of recognizing emotional faces.ObjectivesIn our study we aimed to delineate the neurophysiological correlates of facial emotion recognition and to investigate where, when, and what components in the course of emotional information processing show impairment in schizophrenia.MethodologyWe collected data using a 128-channel EEG recording system for testing an experimental facial emotion recognition paradigm with 20 patients with schizophrenia and 20 matched healthy controls. Subjects were presented fearful and neutral emotional facial expressions on a monitor and asked to make decisions via a button press relating to either the gender or the emotion of the presented face.ResultsOur findings revealed that ERPs of pateints with schizophrenia significantly differed from those of matched healthy controls in several components and areas characteristic to facial emotion processing, showing differences in both early and late ERP components of emotional face processing. Significant main effects of task (gender vs emotion) and emotion (fear vs neutral) were also found.ConclusionThe finding that patients with schizophrenia, as compared to healthy controls, show differences in emotional face processing in several cortical areas and time intervals underlines the hypotheses that a deficit in affect recognition may originate from the impairment of a distributed facial emotion recognition network, including both early perceptual and later phases of facial emotion processing.
Hemispheric differences in frontal theta-band power discriminate between stimulus-versus memory-driven saccadic eye movement
Authors: Velasques B. , Machado S. , Cunha M. , Santos J.L. , Bittencourt J. , Budde H. , Basile L.F. , Cagy M. , Piedade R. , Sack A.T. , Cheniaux E. , Nardi A.E. , Ribeiro P. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionAlthough several electrophysiological studies have demonstrated the role of theta band during the execution of different visuospatial attention tasks, this study is the first to directly investigate the role of theta power during the planning, execution and cognitive control of SEM.ObjectiveSaccadic eye movements (SEMs) represent the first stage of visual sensorimotor integration and are relevant for the visuospatial attention. The current study aims to address this issue by investigating absolute theta power over the frontal cortex during the execution of stimulus- and memory-driven SEMs.Methods12 healthy volunteers (3 male; mean age: 26.25), performed two tasks involving different conditions in the planning, execution and cognitive control of SEMs while their brain activity pattern is recorded using quantitative electroencephalography.ResultsWe found an interaction between SEM condition (memory- vs stimulus-driven) and electrode (F3, F4, Fz), and a main effect of time point and electrode. Our key finding revealed that the stimulus presentation induces different patterns over frontal theta power increase between the left and right hemisphere.ConclusionsWe conclude that right and left frontal regions are an important factor to discriminate between memory- versus stimulus-driven SEMs, and speculate on their role for different levels within the visuospatial attention.
Global inter-rater reliability, scale validity, and local perception: Panss ratings and reactions from 4 Countries
Authors: De Fries A. , Liechti S. , Opler M. , Lane S. , Ivanova E. , Yang L. 
Published: May 2011

Introduction/objectives/aimsWe compared cohorts of raters from different countries who received training on the PANSS. We attempted to determine if there was any consistent by-country impact on specific items, factors, or subscales. We also queried raters about their perceptions of the instrument they were asked to use vis-à-vis their local patient population.MethodsThe data set comes from standardized rater training events involving raters from four countries: India (n = 83), Russia (n = 59), the US (n = 63), and Romania (n = 76). Raters scored interviews of schizophrenic patients using the PANSS. Scores were compared and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and rater agreement with “gold standard” scores were evaluated. The results were viewed against raters’ responses to questions about how well the PANSS items correlated to the presentation of symptoms.ResultsRaters from the US and Russia demonstrated a higher level of inter-rater consistency with ICCs of 0.883 and 0.835, respectively. For eight PANSS items, all raters demonstrated at least 80% agreement with the gold standard scores. For ten PANSS items, there was at least one country whose raters scored below 60% agreement. The PANSS items with the lower inter-rater reliability were the same items raters indicated as problematic in local settings.ConclusionThe differences in rater performance indicate that standardized rater training is broadly effective but that there are some important differences in the way in which different groups conceptualize symptomatology and corresponding PANSS items. This suggests a need to tailor training to ensure reliability and validity in the use of this instrument.
Shyness and social phobia in israeli jewish versus arab students
Authors: Iancu I. , Ram E. 
Published: May 2011

BackgroundSocial Anxiety Disorder has been repeatedly shown to be very prevalent in the Western society with prevalence rates of 10% or above. However, very few studies have been performed in the Middle East and in Arab countries.MethodsThree hundred Israeli students participated in our study and were administered the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), the Cheek Buss Shyness questionnaire (CBSQ) and a socio-demographic questionnaire.Results153 Jewish and 147 Arab students participated in the survey. SAD was found in 12.33% of the sample, according to the LSAS cutoff score of ≥60. The two subsamples had similar LSAS and CBSQ scores and similar positive SAD-positive rates (LSAS≥60). Females had higher scores on the LSAS, as were those without a spouse and those that had been in psychological treatment. Based on a regression analysis, the significant predictors of the LSAS score were the CBSQ score and female gender. A very high correlation was found between the LSAS score and the CBSQ score.ConclusionsSAD and shyness are similarly prevalent in Jewish and Arab students in Israel. SAD scores were higher among females, those without a spouse and those that received psychological treatment. Further studies on the clinical and cultural characteristics of SAD in Israeli sub-cultures would add to the growing body of knowledge on SAD in various cultures.
Prevalence of psychotic symptoms: comparation of immigrants and native- born primary care service users
Authors: Martinena-Palacio P. , Eiroa F. , Qureshi A. , Collazos F. , Revollo H.W. , Ramos M. , Dip M.E. , Casas M. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionEpidemiological studies reveal higher rates of psychotic disorders among immigrants of ethnic minorities. However, the variation in prevalence of psychosis differs, and the proposed explanations and risk factors vary across the literature.Objectives1) to examine the prevalence of psychotic symptoms in a sample of immigrants and native-born in a primary care setting context2) to explore the effect that certain socio-demographic characteristics have in the difference in prevalence.AimsIt is expected that the presence of psychotic symptoms will be greater for the immigrant population than for the native-born population. Low educational level, a low socio-economic status and the presence of a physical illness will partly explain these differences.Methods3000 patients (1500 immigrants and 1500 native-born outpatients paired in age and gender) were interviewed in a primary care setting. They completed the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, including the psychotic disorders sections, and a questionnaire that probed demographic characteristics and physical health status.ResultsImmigrants showed significantly higher rates of psychotic symptoms than native-born patients in both sections of diagnosis: life-span psychotic symptoms only (9.8% in immigrants and 5.3% in native-born) and life span with current psychotic symptoms (7% of the immigrants and 4.8% of the native-born). Immigrants also showed a lower education level, and a lower socio-economic status. When controlling for these factors, a relationship between these factors and the symptoms was found.ConclusionsFindings are discussed in the context of culture and etiology of psychotic symptoms, and suggestions with regard to future research are made.
Suicide in frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Fonseca L. , Machado Á. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionBehavioral and personality changes are the core symptoms of frontotemporal dementia. Suicide and suicide attempts have been reported in demented patients.Clinical caseWe present a case of an 80 years-old-male patient, with a suicide attempt at the age of 76 as the presentation symptom of FTD.Clincal studyThere are few studies of suicide or selfharm in frontotemporal dementia where such behavior might be expected to be more common. We are conducting a clinical study in FTD patients about the relation between FTD and suicide. The results of such study will be presented and discussed.DiscussionTo our knowledge, there are no reliable data or reports about suicide in FTD patients. Also, we didn’t find any case report of a suicide attempt as the first presentation symptom of FTD. We discuss the known data about this issue considering our clinical study and report.
Follow-up study on plasma and cerebrospinal fluid levels of B amyloids and tau proteins in patients with alzheimer's disease
Authors: Fu Y. , Xiao S. 
Published: May 2011

AimsCompare baseline and 6-month follow-up plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of amyloid β peptides 1–40 (Aβ1–40) and 1–42 (Aβ1–42), total tau protein (T-tau) and phosphorylated tau at threonine 231 (P-tau231) in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VD).Methods21 patients with AD and 7 patients with VD based on the criteria of Diagnostic Statistical Manual 4th edition were assessed at baseline and 7 with AD and 6 with VD were re-assessed 6 months later. Assessments included the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), the Global Deteriorate Scale (GDS), plasma and CSF levels of Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42, and CSF levels of T-tau and P-tau231 (using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay).ResultsAt baseline there were significant differences between AD and VD patients in the mean CSF levels of T-tau (t=2.580, P=0.016), P-tau231 (t=4.014, P=0.000) and Aβ1–40 (t=2.766, P=0.010). At baseline in AD patients, duration of illness was negatively correlated with CSF P-tau231 levels (r=-0.485, P=0.026), MMSE scores (r=-0.565, P=0.008) and GDS scores (r=-0.482, P=0.027); and CSF Aβ1–42 levels were positively correlated to MMSE scores (r=0.565, P=0.008) and negatively correlated with GDS scores (r=-0.634, P=0.002). In the AD patients plasma Aβ1–40 levels increased significantly over the 6-month follow-up period (t=-2.735, P=0.041).ConclusionsPlasma Aβ1–40 levels increased significantly in AD patients after 6-months of follow-up, that means levels of plasma Aβ1–40 could imply the development of Alzheimer disease. Moreover, CSF P-tau231 and CSF Aβ1–42 levels are associated with the severity of dementia and cognitive impairment.
Rationale for combination therapy with galantamine and memantine in alzheimer’s disease: the efficacy of treatment of addition
Authors: Zarra J. 
Published: May 2011

ObjectiveThe efficacy, safety, and tolerability of nootropic cholinergic agent: GALANTAMINE (with a dual mechanism of action on the cholinergic a system) and moderate affinity NMDA- receptor antagonist: MEMANTINE, were assessed taking into account the profile of patients with neurocognitive disorder: Alzheimer's disease, from the clinical aspects and the different classifications.MethodsThe experience included 428 patients who were enrolled in a prospective, observational, multicenter, and open-label study to receive 16 mg/day of galantamine and 30 mg/day of memantine for 12 months of treatment of addition.ResultsThe therapeutic response was measured using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-GOG), Functional Activities Questionnaire(FAQ) the Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI) and the UKU scale of adverse effectstaking into account the efficacy, safety and adverse events of the treatment.The final results of the study showed that galantamine with addition memantine improves cognition, behavioural symptoms, and the general well-being of patients with cognitive impairment: Alzheimer's disease. The incidence of adverse events was not significant and a very good profile of tolerability and safety was observed.ConclusionAt the conclusion of this session, the participant should be able to demonstrate with use the association memantine - galatamine in neurocognitive disorder: Alzheimer's disease, improve cognition, behavioural symptoms, and the general state recognized as neurocognitive disorder.
Non compliance of treatment depending on diagnosis and family containment
Authors: de la Vega D.C. , Álvarez T. , Meyer J. Andrada , de la Serna I. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionTreatment adherence plays an importance role in the field of Mental Health, as therapeutic failure increases the number of relapses as well as hospital admissions.ObjectiveTo know if treatment failure is related to the type of mental illness suffered by the patient.Material and methodsAn interview was constructed to collect clinical data (diagnosis, prescribed drug group and drug group which has been altered, how this modifies the treatment and the reasons reported to alter the prescription)Results-Marital status: 48,9% married/consensual union, 30,5% widowed, 19.1% single and 0.7% separated or divorced.-Coexistence: no statistically significant differences were found in compliance among those living alone and those living together.Group-diagnosis: Psychosis 12,9%, Affective disorders 39,3%, Anxiety disorders 5,0%, Personality disorders 0,7%, secondary to organic disease 15,7%, dementia 21,4%, Other 4,3%.Compliance depending on diagnosis: Psychosis (83,3% Yes - No16,7%), Affective disorders (67,3% Yes - No 32,7%), Anxiety disorders (42,9% Yes - No 57,1%), Organic disorders (59,1% Yes - No 40,9%), dementia (56,7% Yes - No 43,3%), Other (Yes 50% - 50% No) Conclusions: A prioiri, cohabitation is an interesting factor in adherence, because living with relatives can lead to greater supervision, and hence greater compliance with treatment.However,only diagnostic group seems to have a role in compliance. Of the analized sample, the group with greater adherence to treatment was “psychosis”.Despite the emphasis that needs to be done in compliance with treatment of psychotic disorders, it is also necessary to enforce compliance in other disorders.
Mental illness and moral panic: a qualitative study of perceptions of a lnk between violent crime and mental illness
Authors: Faruqui R. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionThe crime committed by mentally ill offenders has continued to attract higher degrees of media interest and concerns over public safety.ObjectivesTo explore study participants’ views over public perceptions of mental illness, and psychiatric illness and violent crime link.AimsTo study public percetions of mental illness.MethodsThe study was coducted using a qualitative research design, using audi-taped, semi-structured interviews of 8 University students and healthcare professionals. Qualitative research themes and categories were obtained through qualitative data analysis of interview transcripts.ResultsQualitative categories were obtained using open, axial, and selective coding of transcribed data. The analysis identified a public fear of mental illness displaying in rejection of mentally ill and through expressive communication using stigmatizing language. The study identified that the public sources of knowledge about mental illness are derived from family and peer contact and also through media exposure rather than formal learning opportunities in schools.The study highlights the need for a public policy debate on harmful effects of social stigma of mental illness and further need for ongoing attempts to educate general public and policy makers. Three major categories emerged through this process are:.1.Negative media portrayal of mental illness2.Sufferer stigma and caraer burden3.Mental illness and Moral PanicThe study identified that an atmosphere of moral panic exists against mental illness and that this moral panic is reflected in media coverage of crime by mentally ill offenders.ConclusionsStudy confirms negative public perceptions and stigma of mental illness.
Home visit in mental health care: the “italian way”
Authors: Ferrari S. , Malavolta L. , Laghezzi Ortolani M.R. , Mimmi S. , Rigatelli M. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionHome visits are an essential component of community mental health care for their potentials in prevention and rehabilitative interventions. In the tradition of the Italian organisation, home visits are commonly carried out by psychiatric nurses, usually case managers for patients receiving them. Poor training and scarce integration to other clinical activities are common problems addressed by mental health professionals.MethodsA written survey on attitudes, beliefs and reality of home visiting was submitted to all 95 mental health professionals working in the community mental health centres of the Modena District, North of Italy. The survey included the following sections: general information (including seniority of service); personal experience and emotions; description of “what actually happens”; opinions on training; comparison between reality and ideals.ResultsNinety-eight percent of contacted professionals responded to the questionnaire. Home visiting should be improved and better integrated according to 55% of respondents. Good integration with social services but poor planning and lack of periodical assessments of effectiveness were emphasized by respondents. Seniority of service was significantly associated to different opinions on aim (p = .043) and numbers of home visits (p = .02) as well as the specific mental health centre was strongly associated to different perceptions on quantitative load of home visits (p < .0001). Almost no perception of danger was addressed by respondents, particularly if older.ConclusionsHome visit is a powerful tool for assertive community treatments in psychiatry and should be a focus for training and research.
A destructive urban transformation project resulting with a social transformation process in Ankara-Turkey
Authors: Ilhan I. , Yildirim F. , Dertli N. , Turan M. , Tarihci S. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionDikmen Valley is a slum district where the Municipality of Ankara intended to start an urban transformation project. Dikmen neighborhood includes nearly 1000 houses which the Municipiality attempted to pull down suddenly at night in the winter of 2007.Residents of Dikmen Valley resisted and managed to stop this attempt. Whole event was experienced as an acute trauma as well as a continuous experience of anxiety because of ongoing risk of another attack.AimThe aim of the present study was to investigate the psychological consequences of the whole process.MethodsThe study sample consisted of 201 individuals from 106 households, and a total of 178 individuals from 102 households was taken as comparison group from another slum neighborhood where residents did not experience any threat to their houses. The Beck Depression Inventory, the Spielberger Trait Anxiety Scale, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale were used for assessment.ResultsDikmen sample was found to have a statistically significant higher mean score of anxiety and depression compared to the comparison group. Dikmen had a higher level of general self-efficacy belief than the comparison group after controlling for depression and anxiety scores.ConclusionsAlthough the traumatic process after an attack of pulling down and the threat of losing one's house resulted with a depressive state and anxiety in Dikmen residents, unexpectedly they had a high level of general self-efficacy. To the researchers’ observations, a social transformational process has been realized resulting with an overall high general self-efficacy level in Dikmen neighborhood.
The German “netzwerk psychische gesundheit”: Establishing home treatment for patients with severe chronic mental disorders from a systemic approach
Authors: Kleinschmidt M. , Floeth T. , Greuél M. 
Published: May 2011

IntroductionHome treatment models in treating severe chronic mental disorders including crisis intervention show more and more evidence to offer an excellent alternative to hospital treatment. In Germany, having higher hospitalization rates than almost any other country in Europe, it is even more necessary to evaluate such alternative option to hospital treatment.Objective/aim of studyAfter establishing a home treatment model based on Swedish, Finnish and Italian experiences in cooperation with a big German health insurance in Berlin, we present data evaluation after the first year of implementation.Methods150 Patients out of a model region in Berlin being included in the first year of the project are evaluated with respect to their socio-demographic data and diagnostic spectrum, psychopathology ratings and quality of life assessments, as well as to health economic dimensions (different financial positions of spending economic treatment resources). Using an advanced statistical method of predictive modeling, we can compare the actual hospitalization rates to the statistically predicted ones.ResultsThere are predominantly patients with psychosis (50%), depressive disorders (30%) and BPD (15%). Actual hospitalization rates are extremely low compared to the statistical prediction. Health economic balance is difficult, mainly due to high starting expenses of a treatment setting which had to be built completely new.ImplicationsThe model in the meantime is being applied to the entire city of Berlin as well as to 4 other German counties (Schleswig-Holstein, Bremen, Bayern, Niedersachsen), other regions will follow shortly.