bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mental Disorder among Refugees and the Impact of Persecution and Exile: Some Findings from an Out-Patient Population
Authors: Lavik Nils Johan , Hauff Edvard , Skrondal Anders , Solberg Øivind 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundRefugees have long been considered at risk for mental disorder. We sought to characterise this risk in an out-patient refugee sample by analysing the relationship between psychiatric symptoms and dysfunction, and between symptoms and the socio-demographic background and stressors specific to this refugee sample.MethodA consecutive sample of 231 refugee patients referred to the psychiatric out-patient unit at the Psychosocial Centre for Refugees, University of Oslo, was examined with a semi-structured interview guide, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Hopkins Symptom Check-List (HSCL-25) and a check-list for post-traumatic symptoms (PTSS-10). Global Assessment of Function (GAF) scores were obtained; and the data were analysed using nine predictor variables.ResultsIt was found that 46.6% of the patients had a post-traumatic stress disorder according to the criteria for DSM–III–R as the main diagnosis, while the mean GAF score for the patients was 57.3. Analysis of the GAF and BPRS data did not reveal any predictor of psychotic behaviour. However, torture emerged as an important predictor of emotional withdrawal/retardation. Also, age, gender and no employment or education predicted for anxiety/depression, while refugee status and no employment or school predicted for hostility/aggression.ConclusionsThe results confirm earlier findings that refugees constitute a population at risk for mental disorder. Past traumatic stressors and current existence in exile constitute independent risk factors. However, stressors other than those discussed here appear to be important also, particularly with regard to psychotic symptoms.
Early Compliance and Other Factors Predicting Outcome of Exposure for Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder
Authors: De Araujo L. A. , Ito L. M. , Marks I. M. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundIdentifying predictors of treatment outcome can suggest ways to improve treatment delivery and understanding of its mechanism of action.MethodPredictors of treatment outcome were sought among 46 out-patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder who completed a nine-week randomised controlled trial of two forms of exposure therapy with ritual prevention.ResultsIn both exposure conditions the best predictor of good outcome at the end of treatment (week 9) and of follow-up (week 32) was early compliance in doing exposure homework within a week of starting treatment. A weaker predictor of good outcome at follow-up was within-session reduction in anxiety from weeks 0 to 4.ConclusionThe strongest and most consistent predictor of better outcome to weeks 9 and 32 was compliance with exposure and ritual prevention in the first week of treatment.
Aetiology of Secondary Depression in Male Alcoholics
Authors: Roy Alec 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundSecondary depression is common among primary alcoholics. However, its aetiology is poorly understood.MethodForty men with primary alcoholism, abstinent for two weeks or more, with a secondary major depressive episode were compared with forty matched never-depressed primary alcoholic controls for risk factors for depression and recent life events.ResultsIn the six months before the onset of depression depressed alcoholics had experienced significantly more life events, more life events with negative impact more dependent events caused by alcohol, and more independent events. Significantly more depressed alcoholics than controls had a family history of depression, a family history of suicidal behaviour and had themselves attempted suicide.ConclusionHaving recent life events, particularly events with negative impact, and a family history of depression are risk factors for secondary depression in alcoholics.
Expanded CAG/CTG Repeats in Schizophrenia
Authors: Cardno Alastair G. , Murphy Kieran C. , Jones Lisa A. , Guy Carol A. , Asherson Philip , De Azevedo Maria H. P. , Da Cruz Coelho Isabel M. O. , De Macedo e Santos Antonio J. F. , Pato Carlos N. , McGuffin Peter , Owen Michael J. , O'Donovan Michael C. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundSchizophrenia is associated with expanded CAG/CTG trinucleotide repeats. We wished to determine whether the presence of such expansions correlated with specific subsyndromes or other clinical features of schizophrenia.MethodSeventy patients from England and Wales and 44 patients from Portugal with a DSM–III–R diagnosis of schizophrenia were rated on the opcrit checklist Patients' maximum CAG/CTG repeat length was measured using repeat expansion detection (RED). Significant differences were sought for repeat lengths in subjects categorised according to dimensional and categorical schizophrenia subsyndromes, affective episodes, individual symptoms, and a range of demographic variables.ResultsMaximum CAG/CTG repeat length did not differ significantly for any of the clinical or demographic variables studied.ConclusionThere are no subsyndromes or other clinical features of schizophrenia associated with CAG/CTG repeat expansion. Therefore, the identification of the gene(s) that contain expanded CAG/CTG repeats and which are associated with schizophrenia is unlikely to be facilitated at present by using any subsyndromes of schizophrenia as phenotypes.
Fluctuations in Schizophrenic Births by Year
Authors: Torrey E. Fuller , Rawlings Robert R. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundIt has previously been reported that births of individuals who later develop schizophrenia vary by birth year.MethodBirth data were analysed on 34 024 individuals diagnosed with DSM–III–R disorganised, catatonic, and undifferentiated schizophrenia using time series analysis.ResultsMinor yearly fluctuations were observed but did not achieve statistical significance. Thus earlier findings reported in the literature could not be replicated using a different statistical approach.ConclusionThe findings do not support theories which assume major yearly fluctuations in the births of individuals with schizophrenia. Such theories include the perinatal effects of influenza, temperature variation, and the effects of severe weather.
Morbid Risk of Schizophrenia in First-Degree Relatives of White and African–Caribbean Patients with Psychosis
Authors: Hutchinson G. , Takei N. , Fahy T. A. , Bhugra D. , Gilvarry C. , Moran P. , Mallett R. , Sham P. , Leff J. , Murray R. M. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThe high rate of schizophrenia among the second-generation African–Caribbean population in Britain has prompted much concern and speculation. Sugarman and Craufurd have reported that the morbid risk in the siblings of second-generation African–Caribbean schizophrenic patients was unusually high compared with that of the siblings of White patients.MethodWe sought to replicate these findings by comparing the morbid risk for schizophrenia in the first-degree relatives of 111 White and 73 African–Caribbean psychotic probands. The latter comprised 35 first-generation (bom in the Caribbean) and 38 second-generation (born in Britain) probands.ResultsThe morbid risk for schizophrenia was similar for the parents and siblings of White and first-generation African–Caribbean patients, and for the parents of the second-generation African–Caribbean probands. However, the siblings of second-generation African–Caribbean psychotic probands had a morbid risk for schizophrenia that was seven times that of their White counterparts (P=0.007); similarly, the siblings of second-generation African–Caribbean schizophrenic probands had a morbid risk for schizophrenia that was four times that of their White counterparts (P=0.05).ConclusionsThese findings replicate those of the earlier report of Sugarman and Craufurd, and suggest either that the second-generation African–Caribbean population in Britain is particularly vulnerable to some environmental risk factors for schizophrenia, or that some environmental factors act selectively on this population in Britain.
The impact of stalkers on their victims
Authors: Pathé Michele , Mullen Paul E. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThis paper examines the social and psychological impact on victims of stalking.MethodA group of 100 victims of stalking completed a 50-item questionnaire on their experiences.ResultsThe majority of the victims were subjected to multiple forms of harassment including being followed, repeatedly approached and bombarded with letters and telephone calls for periods varying from a month to 20 years. Threats were received by 58 subjects, and 34 were physically or sexually assaulted. All but six victims made major changes in their social and work lives, with 53% changing or ceasing employment and 39% moving home. Increased levels of anxiety were reported by 83%, intrusive recollections and flashbacks by 55%, with nightmares, appetite disturbances and depressed mood also being commonly reported. Suicidal ruminations were acknowledged by 24% of victims. The criteria for a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder were fulfilled in 37% of subjects, with a further 18% having the clinical features but not qualifying for a stressor involving threatened or actual physical harm.ConclusionsThe study indicates the extent of the social and psychological damage sustained by those subjected to persistent stalking, and underlines the inadequacy of the current legal and medical responses to the needs of these victims.
First-onset psychotic illness: Patients'and relatives' satisfaction with services
Authors: Leavey Gerard , King Michael , Cole Eleanor , Hoar Amanda , Johnson-Sabine Eric 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundDespite the growth in patient satisfaction studies, scant attention has been paid to the satisfaction of patients with a first episode of psychotic illness soon after presentation to services. We were particularly interested in any ethnic differences in satisfaction at this seminal stage in patient care.MethodUsing multi-item questionnaire, face-to-face interviews were conducted with patients and relatives 12 months after first contact with psychiatric services. Relatives were also questioned on support and advice issues related to after-care.ResultsMost patients and relatives were generally satisfied with the treatment, and with the ‘humane’ qualities of psychiatric staff, but were less satisfied with the ‘hotel’ aspects of hospital care. Patients, and particularly relatives, were most concerned about levels of information and advice received. Relatives were dissatisfied with after-care. There were no significant differences between Black and other patients, but some differences between their relatives. Patients born abroad were significantly more satisfied than those born in Britain, irrespective of ethnicity. Compulsory detention under the Mental Health Act was also significant in determining low satisfaction for patients and especially for their relatives.ConclusionsFor improved care in the community patients and their relatives need to be seen as partners in care rather than as passive recipients. The issue of information-giving by psychiatric services demands serious attention. Black patients and their relatives were not especially likely to be dissatisfied.
Psychiatric complications of homozygous sickle cell disease among young adults in the Jamaican Cohort Study
Authors: Hilton Claire , Osborn Madeline , Knight Susan , Singhal Atul , Serjeant Graham 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorder in young adults with homzygous sickle cell (SS) disease and in controls with normal haemoglobin, and to examine factors associated with psychiatric disorder.MethodThe study design was cross-sectional. Subjects were aged 18–20 years: 63 with SS disease and 89 controls. The Psychiatric Assessment Schedule was used to determine psychiatric disorder at index of Definition level 5.ResultsPsychiatric disorder was identified in 18 (29%) SS disease patients and in 22 (25%) controls. In SS patients, psychiatric disorder was not related to illness severity but was associated with leaving school early, difficulties in social adjustment, impaired cognitive function and having previous psychiatric difficulties. Male SS patients with psychiatric disorder all had low body mass index (BMI < 17.60). In controls, psychiatric disorder was associated with female gender, unemployment and difficulties in social adjustment.ConclusionsThe prevalence of psychiatric disorder was similar in patients and controls, although associated factors tended to be different. The association with low BMI in SS men merits further study.
Cerebral perfusion correlates of depressed mood
Authors: Ebmeier Klaus P. , Cavanagh Jonathan T. O. , Moffoot Anthony P. R. , Glabus Michael F. , O'Carroll Ronan E. , Goodwin Guy M. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThe spontaneous diurnal variation of mood and other symptoms provides a substrate for the examination of the relationship between symptoms and regional brain activation in depression.MethodTwenty unipolar depressed patients with diurnal variation of mood were examined at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. with neuropsychological measures, clinical ratings and single photon emission tomography (SPET). Brain perfusion maps were spatially transformed into standard stereotactic space and compared pixel-by-pixel. A parametric (correlational) analysis was used to examine the relationship between symptom severity and brain perfusion, both between and within subjects.ResultsGlobal depression severity and an independent ‘vital’ depression factor were associated in subjects with increased perfusion in cingulate and other paralimbic areas. In addition there was a probable association between an increase in an anxious-depression factor and reduced frontal neocortical perfusion.ConclusionsDepressive symptom changes are associated with metabolic changes in the cingulate gyrus and associated paralimbic structures.
Impact factors of psychiatric journals
Authors: Howard Louise , Wilkinson Greg 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundWe examined citation data for the British Journal of Psychiatry (BJP) and four other general psychiatry journals to assess their impact on the scientific community.MethodData on three measures of citations (total number of citations, impact factor and ranking by impact factor) were obtained from Journal Citation Reports for 1985–1994. Rank correlations from year to year were calculated.ResultsThe BJP currently ranks sixth of all psychiatry journals when journals are ranked by impact factor. The journal's impact factor fell between 1985 and 1990 and this was followed by a rise in impact factor after 1991. The BJP did not rank in the top 10 psychiatry journals between 1991 and 1993. Archives of General Psychiatry is cited more frequently than any other psychiatry journal, with the American Journal of Psychiatry usually ranking second. Psychopharmacology journals are replacing more general journals in the top rankings. Rankings of most journals have become less stable in recent years.ConclusionsThe BJP would have to change the nature and number of papers published to improve its impact factor. There are a number of limitations to citation data and such data are only one of several factors useful in evaluating the importance of a journal's contribution to scientific and clinical communities.Conflict of interestThese condauthor is Editor of the British Journal of Psychiatry.
Huntington's disease: Psychiatric practice in molecular genetic prediction and diagnosis
Authors: Scourfield Jane , Soldan Jo , Gray Jonathon , Houlihan Gary , Harper Peter S. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundPredictive genetic testing for Huntington's disease has been available in Cardiff since 1987 using linked genetic markers, and since 1993 using direct mutation testing, which can also be used as a diagnostic test. During this period there have been numerous referrals that have required liaison with psychiatric services at all stages of the testing programme.MethodA series of cases was selected to highlight issues from both genetic prediction and diagnosis that are relevant to psychiatric practice and have arisen during the testing programme.ResultsIssues have been raised concerning competence to consent to testing in the context of psychotic illness; depression and suicidal ideation in test candidates; requests for testing from third parties such as psychiatrists, social services and the courts; and testing of children.ConclusionsAs genetic testing becomes possible for more disorders the lessons learned from Huntington's disease will provide valuable guidelines for counselling.
Genetic anticipation and imprinting in bipolar I illness
Authors: Grigoroiu-Serbanescu Maria , Wickramaratne Pryia J. , Hodge Susan E. , Milea Stefan , Mihailescu Radu 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThe study focused on: (1) the existence of genetic anticipation in a randomly selected sample of bipolar I patients using broad and narrow definitions of the affection status in the parental generation; (2) the relationship between anticipation and the age at investigation in probands and in their relatives; (3) the relationship between anticipation and imprinting.MethodOne hundred and fifteen bipolar I patients and their first- to third-degree relatives were diagnosed according to DSM–III–R criteria using the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies and the Family Interview for Genetic Studies.ResultsAge at onset was found to be 6–10 years younger in probands with affected parents or uncles/aunts. Two-thirds of these families showed positive anticipation under both the broad and the narrow definitions of affection status in the parents' generation. The age at investigation was younger in probands showing positive anticipation. Anticipation was found only in probands inheriting the disorder from the paternal side.ConclusionsIn spite of the inevitable association between young current age and young age at onset, which could result in spurious anticipation effects, our findings suggest that this phenomenon is not the sole cause of observed anticipation.
Subjective ratings of emotional health as a risk factor for major depression in a community sample
Authors: Hoff Rani A. , Bruce Martha Livingston , Kasl Stanislav V. , Jacobs Selby C. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundAlthough subjective ratings of health have been shown to be accurate predictors of physical health outcomes, there is little research on the association between subjective emotional health (SEH) and psychiatric outcomes.MethodThis paper utilises data from the Epidemiologic Catchment Area study to explore the relationship between baseline SEH and the risk for major depression in the next year. Both recurrent and incident episodes of depression are outcomes of interest.ResultsThe age- and gender-adjusted relationship between SEH and depression is quite significant, and remains so after adjusting for other factors associated with major depression. The more positive the SEH rating, the lower the risk of an episode of depression in the next year.ConclusionsSome possible explanations for this association are explored, including possible confounders that were not accounted for and the possibility that SEH ratings pose an independent risk for major depression.
Outcome in schizophrenia and related disorders compared between developing and developed countries
Authors: Craig Thomas J. , Siegel Carole , Hopper Kim , Lin Shang , Sartorius Norman 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundData on the two-year pattern of course of illness have been collected in the WHO study of the Determinants of Outcomes of Severe Mental Disorder (DOSMD). These data are reanalysed using recursive partitioning, a method not yet applied to psychiatric data to test the hypothesis that subjects from participating centres in developing countries had better outcomes than those in developed countries.MethodSubjects were those from the DOSMD study for whom two-year follow-up data were available (n= 1056). The classification and regression trees recursive partitioning technique was used to examine the predictor variables associated with the outcome variable two year pattern of course.ResultsPattern of course was best predicted by centre, but two developed centres (Prague and Nottingham) grouped with the developing country centres excluding Cali, having better outcomes than in the remaining developed country centres and Cali. Type of onset (insidious v. non-insidious) was the next strongest predictor, but its effect differed across these two centre groupings. Effects for some groups were modified by other predictor variables, including age, child and/or adolescent problems, and gender.ConclusionsThe predominant predictor effects on two-year pattern of course continued to be centre and type of onset, but complex interactions between these variables and other predictor variables are seen in specific centre groupings not strictly defined by ‘developing’ and ‘developed’.
Is the earlier age at onset of schizophrenia in males a confounded finding?
Authors: Jablensky Assen , Cole Steven W. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThe finding of an earlier age at onset of schizophrenia in males compared with females, replicated across a number of studies, appears to be so robust as to support hypotheses about gender differences in the aetiology of the disorder. However, the possibility that this observed gender effect might reflect other confounding variables has not been adequately explored.MethodWe analysed data on 778 men and 653 women, in three developing countries and in seven developed countries, who had been assessed in the WHO 10-country study of schizophrenia. We applied a generalised linear modelling strategy to estimate the unconfounded contributions of gender, family history, premorbid personality and marital status to age at onset.ResultsThe model that explained the highest percentage of the total variance indicated strong main effects (P < 0.001) for marital status and premorbid personality, a weak effect for family history, and an attenuated effect for gender. Two independent verification procedures suggested an independent onset-delaying effect for marital status (married), more marked in males.ConclusionsThe gender difference in the age at onset of schizophrenia is not a robust biological characteristic of the disorder. Failure to control for marital status and premorbid personality in male/ female comparisons of age at onset may explain a large part of the differences reported previously.
The effect of treatment on the two-year course of late-life depression
Authors: Flint Alastair J. , Rifat Sandra L. 
Published: October 2008

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to examine the effect of treatment on the long-term course of geriatric depression.MethodEighty-four elderly patients who had responded to treatment of the index episode of major depression were maintained on full-dose antidepressant medication and followed on a monthly basis for two years. Relapse and recurrence were treated in a systematic manner.ResultsThe cumulative probability of surviving for two years without relapse or recurrence was 74%. Of the 14 patients who suffered recurrence following recovery from the index episode, all responded to a change of treatment, and 71% remained well for the remainder of the study. The risk of recurrence was significantly increased by a delayed response to treatment of the index episode.ConclusionsContinuation and maintenance treatment with full-dose antidepressant medication, frequent follow-up, and vigorous treatment of relapses and recurrences, were associated with a good outcome in this group of elderly patients.