bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disruptions in Childhood Parental Care as Risk Factors for Major Depression in Adult Women
Authors: Browne Oakley M. A. , Joyce P. R. , Wells J. E. , Bushnell J. A. , Hornblow A. R. 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the influence of different types of disruptions in childhood parental care before the age of 15 years as risk factors for major depression in women aged 18 to 44 years. The types of disruptions studied were parental death, parental separation or divorce, other types of loss (i.e. adoption, foster-care, etc.), and prolonged separation from both parents. Potential confounding factors were also examined. Method: The data were obtained from a community probability sample. Case-ness was determined by the use of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) and both the current (one month) and lifetime prevalence periods were considered. Logistic regression was used to model the influence of each factor, singly and adjusted for the influence of other factors, on the risk for major depression. Results: It was found that in this population 17% had experienced some type of parental loss (parental death 4%, separations/divorce 10% and other types of loss 3%) and 11% had experienced prolonged separation from both parents. Parental loss was significantly associated with lifetime depression, but this effect was no longer significant when adjusted for other factors. However, prolonged separation from both parents was associated with an increased risk of current and lifetime depressive episodes of approximately three to fourfold, even when the risk was adjusted for other factors. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that prolonged separation from both parents has a stronger association with current or lifetime depression in women than do parental death, separation/divorce and other types of loss. Prolonged separation may be a marker for other risk factors and may not be a risk factor on its own.
How Do Research Psychiatrists Rate? Views of Neuroscientists
Authors: Parker Gordon 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of the paper is to define views of neuroscientists about research psychiatrists that might be restricting collaborative research. Method: A questionnaire was distributed to all members of the Australian Neuroscience Society. Forty-nine questionnaires were returned, and both quantitative and qualitative analyses undertaken. Results: Neuroscientists rated research psychiatrists as “poor scientists” in having limited scientific training, being loose methodologists and in tending to cut corners, but also viewed research psychiatrists as addressing domains that generate harder research questions. Several factors inhibiting and promoting collaboration between neuroscientists and research psychiatrists were elicited. Conclusions: If collaborative links involving neuroscientists and research psychiatrists are to be enhanced, research psychiatrists will need to address and redress views about perceived limitations of their scientific competence.
The Concept of Resilience
Authors: Wolff Sula 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The concept of resilience highlights the complexity of psychopathology, helps to clarify possibilities for prevention and keeps hope alive in clinical practice. This paper reviews definitions of resilience, the nature of risk factors and of moderating processes. Method: The place of single case studies is described, the components of resilience are outlined and consideration is given to how resilience can be fostered in the face of adversities and stresses: socio-economic deprivation, family discord and divorce, and maternal depression. Conclusion: A plea is made for increased efforts to make knowledge more widely available: public and politicians need to know how decisions about housing, employment, welfare, education and criminal justice impinge on the development of children, and what changes in the macro-environment will preserve and enhance childhood resilience.
Practice Visits: A Pilot Study
Authors: Parker Gordon , Wright Murray , Robertson Sadie 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of the paper is to report a pilot study of practice visits. Method: The study involved 35 psychiatrists as hosts and/or visitors, as well as four non-psychiatrist visitors, with the model and subsequent design changes described. Results: The Quality Assurance Committee's rationale for practice visits is detailed, together with several focal concerns raised by committee members and other Fellows of the College. Conclusions: Feedback was highly positive, with visitors being generally more positive and enthusiastic than hosts. A follow-up questionnaire indicated ongoing enthusiasm for such an activity and provided evidence of participants making changes to their practices. Identified concerns and some suggested modifications to the pilot study design are noted.
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia with Dementia
Authors: Pridmore Saxby , Rao Gyaneshwar , Abusah Prosper 
Published: November 2007

Objective: Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) with dementia is a very rare condition. The aim of the paper is to present the first report of HSP in a Fijian Indian family. Method: A psychiatrist and a general physician examined the affected members of the family on five occasions over three years. Results: There are three affected individuals In a sibship of seven. The parents are without symptoms and the marriage is non-consanguineous. The course of the disease has been remarkably similar. All subjects were healthy and performing well in the early years of school. In two, symptoms of cognitive loss preceded difficulty with ambulation and in the third, these symptoms appeared concurrently. All subjects had both symptoms by 13 years of age; they were unable to ambulate independently by the mid to late teens, at which time there was dysarthria spastic paraplegia and dementia. One subject suffered a three month episode of hypomanic behaviour. Over the three-year study period deterioration was slight but noticeable. Conclusions: It is possible that HSP is more commonly associated with pre-senile dementia than is currently recognised. HSP with dementia is a very rare cause of failing school performance. Physical examination of the patient and other family members is indicated if this diagnosis is being considered.
The Western Australian Child Health Survey: A Pilot Study
Authors: Garton Alison F. , Zubrick Stephen R. , Silburn Sven R. 
Published: November 2007

A pilot survey of 200 households was undertaken to field test the survey instruments and trial the validation and calibration procedures for the Western Australian Child Health Survey (WACHS) conducted in 1992. This paper describes the background to the WACHS, the development of the instrumentation and the conduct of the pilot study. This survey aims to replicate and extend previous epidemiological surveys conducted in other countries, and to provide Australian norms for mental health morbidity in 4 to 16 year old children. The measurement of mental health was undertaken through the use of the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL). This screening instrument provided data on the prevalence of mental health morbidity and of specific mental disorders in 4 to 16 year olds. Its reliability and validity as a diagnostic indicator were checked through a clinical calibration technique. The pilot survey also permitted an examination of the sampling strategy adopted to ensure that the sample selected reflected “normality” in terms of expected trends and results. Modifications to the content of the questionnaires are described in light of both psychometric qualities of the data and comments from field interviewers and professionals who have examined the instrument. Finally, changes to data collection strategies are discussed.
Psychological Sequelae of Torture and Trauma in Chilean and Salvadorean Migrants: A Pilot Study
Authors: Thompson Maritza , McGorry Patrick 
Published: November 2007

Torture has existed since the earliest times, usually as public punishment prior to death. Today it is predominantly used in secret with the aim of destroying the individual's personality. The effects of torture include severe physical and psychological sequelae which have only recently come under scrutiny. In recent years many Chilean and El Salvadorean migrants have left their countries after being tortured and severely traumatised as a result of organised violence. The aim of this study was to pilot an investigation into the psychological sequelae of torture. Subjects were 30 Chileans and El Salvadoreans classified into three groups: torture, trauma and non-torture/trauma migrants. It was found to be feasible to access and interview survivors from a clinical research perspective without causing additional psychological morbidity. The subjects were interviewed and administered three scales: the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Scale, SCL-90-R, and the Impact of Event Scale. The results from the scales and the descriptive data presented indicate some support for the hypothesis that torture survivors show higher levels of PTSD, psychosomatic impairment and stress response disturbance than the trauma and non-torture/trauma groups. Methodological issues are discussed. The strengths and limitations of this preliminary study are considered in relation to future research.
Australian Vietnam Veterans: Factors Contributing to Psychosocial Problems
Authors: Grayson David A. , Marshall Richard P. , Dobson Matthew , O'toole Brian I. , Schureck Ralph J. , Ffrench Margot , Pulvertaft Belinda , Meldrum Lenore 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The objective of the present paper is to present comprehensive models of the current psychosocial morbidity of Australian Vietnam veterans. Seldom has research in this area attempted to ‘untangle’ direct and indirect influences on current functioning via possible pre-army, Vietnam and homecoming pathways. Method: The Australian Vietnam Veterans' Health Study gathered data on a sample of 641 veterans throughout Australia drawn randomly from army Vietnam tour lists of the era. The data arose from interview and army records of the era, and fall into four temporal categories: pre-army, Vietnam service, homecoming after Vietnam, and current state. Path analysis models of the veterans' current psychological morbidities and social wellbeing are used to identify direct aetiological influences of earlier era constructs on current state, free of confounding by indirect (often selection) effects. Results: Our results indicate that psychological morbidity (particularly post-traumatic stress disorder) is largely influenced by combat and poor homecoming experiences, although pre-military characteristics do play some direct roles in symptomatology. Social dysfunction measures show smaller effects of the Vietnam War, which may be accounted for by an indirect association with Vietnam-related psychological morbidity. Some social measures show evidence of compensatory influences of combat, high combat leading to social dysfunction because of morbidity, but simultaneously being associated with healthier social disposition (possibly because of increased ex-service activity). Conclusions: For Australian Vietnam veterans, combat-related and homecoming effects persist on a range of psychosocial endpoints 20–30 years after exposure. These effects are not explicable in terms of veterans' pre-Vietnam characteristics.
An Exploration of the Quality of Peer Review Group Activities within Australasia
Authors: Robertson Sadie , Parker Gordon , Byrne Simon , Wright Murray 
Published: November 2007

Objective: To describe a two-phase study of the structure of Australasian psychiatrist peer review groups. Method (Phase one): Initially, information was sought from chairskoordinators of psychiatrist peer review groups regarding the nature and organisation of their group. Results (Phase one): One hundred and three questionnaires were returned describing a number of models of peer review. Three principal models were identified: a teaching hospital model, a private practice model, and a private institution model. Method (Phase two): The second-phase questionnaire sought information on the quality of the review, using six proposed standards developed by the Quality Assurance Committee of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Results (Phase two): Many groups indicated that four of the proposed standards (those relating to documentation, having clear goals, reviewing actual clinical cases, and rigorous protection of confidentiality) were either already being followed or would be relatively easy to implement. The remaining two proposed standards (including structure, process and outcome dimensions of health care in the case discussion, and the use of explicit criteria) presented more difficulty. Conclusion: The application of such standards to peer review group meetings should assist groups to provide a forum for presentation and evaluation of clinical work where participants know they will be challenged in an environment which is both supportive and educational.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Clozapine Monotherapy
Authors: Chatterton Ray , Cardy Susette , Schramm T. Mark 
Published: November 2007

Objective: This report identifies neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) occurring on a steady state dosage of clozapine monotherapy. Clinical picture: An outpatient presented with a recent history of stiffness and soreness of his legs, dizziness, polydipsia, polyuria, abdominal and chest pains. After admission to a general hospital, further symptomatology was identified including: pallor, diaphoresis, nausea, confusion, agitation, decrease in normal reflexes, minimally reactive pupils and rigid limbs. Treatment: Intravenous (I/V) diazepam was administered but failed to decrease the agitation and confusion. He was sedated with the administered of IN drop-eradol, intubated and placed on a ventilator with circulatory supports for 4 days. Outcome: On day five he was extubated and transfered to a medical ward. All laboratory values had returned to normal values by this time. The patient was subsequently discharged. Conclusions: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome can occur at any stage of clozapine treatment, and the patient can be rechallenged after such an episode. This person was rechallenged and after 6 months of treatment has suffered no further recurrence of NMS.
Homeless, Helpless and Hospitalised: The Travails of a Chinese Refugee
Authors: Looi Jeffrey C.L. , Drew Leslie R.H. 
Published: November 2007

Objective: To report the case of a Chinese refugee who presented with a brief reactive psychosis in the presence of significant stressors. Clinical picture: A 30-year-old Chinese refugee, who fled alleged torture and persecution in China, presented with an acute, severe, paranoid psychosis. Treatment and outcome: This patient's psychosis was exacerbated by involuntary hospitalisation and treatment. The withdrawal of restrictive measures, cessation of medications and attention to his social needs led to an improvement in his condition. Conclusions: Involuntary treatment of a brief reactive psychosis in those who have been previously tortured may exacerbate the psychosis. Withdrawal of restrictions and advocacy for the patient may generate a therapeutic alliance with a positive outcome.
Depression in Schizophrenia: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Markou Petros 
Published: November 2007

Objective: To assess the level of depressive symptomatology among a group of patients with schizophrenia, both inpatients and outpatients, and speculate as to the reasons why differences among the groups may be occurring. Method: Fifty inpatients of Baillie Henderson Hospital, a chronic stay psychiatric hospital in Queensland, and 44 outpatients of this hospital were assessed on a number of measures including the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale for Schizophrenia, Abnormal Involuntary Movements Scale, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and Beck Depression Inventory. All patients were assessed in a structured interview for 35–40 minutes by the same clinician. A chart review also occurred. The chief outcome variable was a Hamilton Depression Rating Scale of 17 or greater. Results: Clinically significant depression, as defined by a Hamilton Depression score of 17 or greater, was found in 10% (n = 5) of the inpatient sample. Of the outpatient sample, 4.5% (n = 2) showed a clinically significant depression, which was not significantly different to the inpatient group. The prevalence of mild to moderate depression, as defined by a Hamilton Depression score of between 10 and 17, was 42% in the inpatient group and 47.7% in the outpatient group. There was no significant difference between the two groups on the mean Hamilton Depression scores. Conclusions: The results suggest a high level of depressive symptomatology in patients with schizophrenia. As suicide is common in this group, this finding is important. Self-reporting of this problem by patients with schizophrenia, by means of questionnaire, is feasible and provides comparable results to objective clinician ratings.
Pathological Gambling: Forensic Issues
Authors: Blaszczynski Alex , Silove Derrick 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of this paper is to review the literature describing the hypothesised link between crime and pathological gambling and its relevance to arguments of diminished responsibility. Method: An attempt was made to include all publications in the psychiatry and psychology literature which made reference to pathological gambling and criminal behaviours. Given the limited research in this field, specific unpublished conference papers were also included in the review. Results: Evidence supports the contention that pathological gamblers are at high risk for committing criminal offences in order to maintain their habitual gambling behaviours. An antisocial personality disorder while acting to increase the risk factor is in itself an insufficient explanation for the observed link. As a result of the acceptance of pathological gambling as a psychiatric disorder, the judicial system is being increasingly confronted with an argument of diminished responsibility for gambling-related offences committed by pathological gamblers. Conclusion: A diagnosis of pathological gambling does not diminish legal responsibility but is a factor that should be considered in sentencing. Referral to psychiatric services reduces the risk of recidivism.
Tics Status
Authors: Sachdev Perminder , Chee Kit-Yun , Wilson Andrew 
Published: November 2007

Objectives: To describe two patients with tics status, propose a definition of this syndrome and draw attention to its clinical significance. Method: Two patients suffering from Tourette's Syndrome who had developed episodes of continual motor tics that lasted from minutes to hours, were non-suppressible and intruded into normal functioning, were treated with an increase in the dose of haloperidol, in one case with the addition of clonazepam. Results: The offset of the episodes was gradual and the tic disorder was worse after the episodes. One patient had further spontaneous episodes of tics status. Conclusions: The recognition of tics status has implications for the management as well as our understanding of the pathobiology of tics and Tourette's Syndrome. The definition of tics status should be standardised.
Janet and Freud: Revealing the Roots of Dynamic Psychiatry
Authors: Brown Paul , MacMillan Malcolm B. , Meares Russel , van der Hart Onno 
Published: November 2007

Objectives: Interest in the work of Pierre Janet is presently undergoing a scholarly revival and, in the process, his contribution to dynamic psychiatry is increasingly being recognised. This article compares and contrasts Pierre Janet's early studies on hysteria and the neuroses with those of Freud. Method: The study surveys original works by Janet and Freud and contemporary scholarly exegeses. It particularly focuses on ideation and memory, consciousness and dissociation, psychological trauma, the self, therapeutic influence, and treatment by integration versus abreaction. Results: Grounds are presented for either preferring Janet's notions to Freud's, or for integrating them. Conclusion: It is concluded that a number of Janet's contributions to psychopathology and psychotherapy, particularly in the field of dissociative disorders, deserve further exploration and application.
Outcome of Schizophrenia: The Madras Longitudinal Study
Authors: Thara Rangaswamy , Eaton William W. 
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the clinical outcome in a group of first-episode schizophrenic patients on a 10-year follow-up. The social, demographic and clinical variables associated with poor outcome and gender differences in outcome were other issues addressed. Method: Ninety patients fulfilling Feighner's and ICD-9 criteria for schizophrenia, at Madras, India, were included for a 10-year follow-up. The Present State Examination and the Psychiatric and Personal schedule were administered at intake and at the end of every year. Clinical outcome was considered as a combination of the pattern of course and the presence of positive symptoms during year 10. Results: After 10 years, 76 of the 90 patients included were followed up, giving a follow-up rate of 84%. The clinical outcome was good in nearly 75% of the patients with almost all symptoms showing a steep decline at the end of 10 years. Fifty-nine subjects were asymptomatic at the end of the follow-up period and 12 were ill during the entire 10th year. Sexual, religious and grandiose delusions and flat affect at inclusion predicted a poor clinical outcome. More males had a poor outcome and spent a longer time in a psychotic state. Conclusions: There is evidence of a good outcome in the majority of first-episode schizophrenic patients after 10 years in keeping with other reports from developing countries. Certain variables at inclusion predicted a poor clinical outcome and males had a poorer outcome than females.
Emotional Health of Indonesian Adoptees Living in Australian Families
Authors: Goldney Robert D. , Donald Maxine , Sawyer Michael G. , Kosky Robert J. , Priest Susan 
Published: November 2007

Objective: To compare the prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems in adolescent adoptees from Indonesia living in South Australian families with that of adolescents living in the community and those referred to mental health clinics in South Australia. Method: Thirty-four Indonesian adoptees completed the Youth Self-Report and their adoptive mothers completed the Child Behaviour Checklist. The results on these instruments were compared with the scores of a community sample and a mental health clinic population. Results: There was a striking similarity between scores on the Youth Self-Report and the Child Behaviour Checklist instruments for the adoption and community groups. Both these groups had significantly fewer problems than adolescents referred to mental health clinics. Conclusions: These results indicate that the outcome in terms of emotional and behavioural health for intercountry adoptions between Indonesia and Australia is favourable.