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Hässig M, Wyss P, Bilgery E, Fatzer H, Hausammann M, Schick M. [Vibration as a risk of mastitis during milking]. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 2024; 166:41-48. [PMID: 38174764 DOI: doi.org/10.17236/sat00416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mastitis is one of the most important factor diseases in dairy cattle worldwide. Milking technique represents one of the factors involved in the development of mastitis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of vibrations during milking on the rate of clinical and subclinical mastitis. For this purpose, milking measurements, tank milk analyses and survey forms (general farm data, assessment of milking work and milking hygiene, teat condition, feeding, farm problems, animal behavior) were assessed in 8 Swiss dairy farms. The results show a correlation between present vibrations at the output of the milk meter and increasing bulk milk somatic cell count. Further, a tendency was shown for vibrations at the input of the milk meter to influence bulk milk somatic cell count. Also, a tendency regarding vibrations at the outlet of the milk meter and acute phase protein milk amyloid A was evident. In conclusion, the results suggest that vibration during milking might have a negative effect on udder health. However, further research with a larger number of dairies is needed to make a more generally valid statement.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hässig
- Abteilung Ambulanz und Bestandesmedizin, Vetsuisse-Fakultät der Universität Zürich
| | - P Wyss
- Abteilung Ambulanz und Bestandesmedizin, Vetsuisse-Fakultät der Universität Zürich
| | | | | | | | - M Schick
- Landwirtschaftliche Schule Strickhof, Eschikon ZH
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Spaaij J, de Graaff AM, Akhtar A, Kiselev N, McDaid D, Moergeli H, Pfaltz MC, Schick M, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Cuijpers P, Sijbrandij M, Morina N. The effect of a low-level psychological intervention (PM+) on post-migration living difficulties - Results from two studies in Switzerland and in the Netherlands. Compr Psychiatry 2023; 127:152421. [PMID: 37708580 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS OF THE STUDY After arriving in host countries, most refugees are confronted with numerous post-migration stressors (e.g., separation from family, discrimination, and employment difficulties). Post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs) significantly contribute to the development and persistence of mental disorders. Effective treatment approaches focusing on reducing post-migration stress are urgently needed. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of a brief psychological intervention, Problem Management Plus (PM+), on PMLDs among Syrian refugees in two European countries. METHODS We merged data from two single-blind feasibility trials with Syrian refugees experiencing elevated levels of psychological distress and impaired functioning in Switzerland (N = 59) and the Netherlands (N = 60). Participants were randomised to receive either five sessions of PM+ or an enhanced care-as-usual control condition. PMLDs were assessed at baseline and 3 months after the intervention. To estimate treatment effect on PMLD, linear mixed model analysis was performed. RESULTS Three months after the intervention, participants in the PM+ condition reported significantly fewer PMLDs compared to the control condition. Further analyses at item-level showed that interpersonal and family related PMLDs, such as "worries about family back home" significantly improved over time in the PM+ condition. CONCLUSIONS This exploratory study suggests that brief psychological interventions have the potential to reduce PMLDs in refugees and asylum seekers. The reduction of post-migration stress in turn may subsequently lead to an overall reduction in psychological distress. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBERS BASEC Nr. 2017-0117 (Swiss trial) and NL61361.029.17, 7 September 2017 (Dutch trial).
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anne M de Graaff
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Aemal Akhtar
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Division of Insurance Medicine, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Nikolai Kiselev
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; PluSport, Umbrella Organization of Swiss Disabled Sports, Volketswil, Switzerland; Swiss Research Institute of Public Health and Addiction (ISGF), University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David McDaid
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hanspeter Moergeli
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Monique C Pfaltz
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Mid Sweden University, Department of Psychology and Social Work, Östersund, Sweden
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Allender DW, Schick M. On the force between "rafts". Eur Phys J E Soft Matter 2023; 46:85. [PMID: 37736796 DOI: 10.1140/epje/s10189-023-00347-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
"Rafts" in the plasma membrane are nanoscopic domains rich in sphingolipids and cholesterol. Groups of them are thought to provide stable platforms for various proteins. How several rafts can form a larger stable platform has yet to be made clear. Here, we show that in the microemulsion theory of rafts, in which they, and the sea in which they float, are characterized by a naturally occurring length, rafts separated by a sea larger than this length will attract one another, thus making the sea smaller. Similarly, if rafts are separated by a sea that is smaller than the characteristic size, they will repel one another thus allowing the sea to increase in size. Such an elastic force can clearly stabilize a platform of many rafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Allender
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Physics, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Spaaij J, Fuhr DC, Akhtar A, Casanova L, Klein T, Schick M, Weilenmann S, Roberts B, Morina N. Scaling-up problem management plus for refugees in Switzerland - a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:488. [PMID: 37189160 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09491-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugees are at an increased risk of developing symptoms of mental disorders but face various structural and socio-cultural barriers to accessing mental health care. The SPIRIT project (Scaling-up Psychological Interventions in Refugees In SwiTzerland) seeks to promote the resilience of refugees and improve their access to mental health care. For this purpose, Problem Management Plus (PM+), an evidence-based low-intensity psychological intervention delivered by trained non-specialist "helpers", is being scaled-up in Switzerland. OBJECTIVE To identify factors influencing the process of the large-scale implementation of PM + for refugees in Switzerland and to develop recommendations to guide the implementation process. METHODS 22 semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants (Syrian refugees who previously participated in PM+, PM + helpers, health professionals working with refugees and decision-makers from the migration, integration, social, and health sectors). The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, combining an inductive and deductive approach. RESULTS The data revealed three major themes, which might have an impact for the longer-term implementation of PM + in Switzerland. First, preconditions for successful integration in the health system prior to scaling-up such as sustainable funding or the introduction of a stepped care approach. Second, the requirements for the PM + intervention supporting scale-up such as quality control during PM + delivery, PM + modality, time and setting when PM + is offered or the views on task sharing. Third, the perceived benefits of scaling-up PM + in Switzerland. CONCLUSIONS Our results have shown that PM + must be scaled-up within a stepped care approach, including a functioning triage system and sustainable funding. Rather than selecting one modality or setting, it seemed preferable to offer a variety of formats and settings to achieve maximum reach and benefits. A successful scale-up of PM + in Switzerland might have various benefits. Communicating them to policy-makers and health providers, might enhance their acceptability of the intervention and their willingness to adopt PM + in regulatory structure and promote it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland.
| | - Daniela C Fuhr
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology, Bremen, Germany
- Health Sciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Aemal Akhtar
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Insurance Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Luisa Casanova
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Klein
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Weilenmann
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, Zurich, CH-8091, Switzerland
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Ford J, Kayandabila J, Morrison J, Seth S, Lyimo B, Mukhtar A, Schick M, Mah L, Debes J. 209EMF Combined Hepatitis B Virus and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Screening Using Point-of-Care Testing and Ultrasound in a Tanzanian Emergency Department: A Preliminary Report. Ann Emerg Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2022.08.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Shindruk A, Schick M, McBeth C, Hallweaver M, Warner C, Jaiteh L. 272 An Approach to Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training in a Teaching Hospital in the Gambia. Ann Emerg Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2022.08.299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Buyan A, Allender DW, Corry B, Schick M. Lipid redistribution in the highly curved footprint of Piezo1. Biophys J 2022:S0006-3495(22)00595-1. [PMID: 35927961 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigate the effects on the distribution of lipids in the plasma membrane that are caused by the insertion of a protein, Piezo1, that significantly distorts the membrane toward the cytosol. From coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we find that the major effects occur in the outer, extracellular, leaflet. The mol fraction of cholesterol increases significantly in the curved region of the membrane close to Piezo1, while those of phosphatidylcholine and of sphingomyelin decrease. In the inner leaflet, mol fractions of cholesterol and of phosphatidylethanolamine decrease slightly as the protein is approached, while that of phosphatidylserine increases slightly. The mol fraction of phosphatidylcholine decreases markedly as the protein is approached. Most of these results are understood in the context of a theoretical model that utilizes two elements; (i) a coupling between the leaflets' actual curvatures and their compositionally-dependent spontaneous curvatures and, (ii) the dependence of the spontaneous curvatures not only on the mol fractions of the phospholipids, but also on the effect that cholesterol has on the spontaneous curvatures of the phospholipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Buyan
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - D W Allender
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle WA; Department of Physics, Kent State University, Kent OH
| | - Ben Corry
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle WA
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Jansen C, Kuhlmann E, Scharli P, Schick M, Ditzen B, Langer L, Strowitzki T, Kuon RJ, Wischmann T. “A sorrow shared …”: a qualitative content analysis of what couples with recurrent miscarriages expect from one another and their families and friends. Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac032. [PMID: 35928048 PMCID: PMC9345061 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION When couples have to face recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), what are the partners’ wishes and needs and what is their perception of helpful and unhelpful factors with regard to their own, their partners’ and their families’ and friends’ ways of dealing with the problem? SUMMARY ANSWER Women and men with repeated miscarriages want open communication about their losses, but expect a sensitive and empathetic attitude from others, not pity or trivialization. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY RPL not only causes the women affected and their partners considerable emotional distress; it also has an impact on the couples’ relationships and the way they relate to their families and friends. Studies suggest that women have a greater need than their male partners to talk about their losses and that these differences may lead to dissatisfaction and cause relational tension. In addition, men often assume a ‘mainstay’ role, supporting their partners and displaying fortitude in the face of distress. As yet, however, little research has been conducted so far on the question of what the members of couples with RPL expect from one another and from their families and friends. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The study sample consisted of 147 couples and 17 women with at least 2 miscarriages attending the special unit for RPL at the University Women’s Hospital in Heidelberg (Germany) for the first time between September 2018 and October 2020 (response rate: 82.7%). The patients were asked to participate in this combined qualitative and questionnaire study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In order to explore the wishes and needs of those affected in more detail, the free text responses obtained were examined in this study by using qualitative content analysis. Categories and subcategories were created inductively to summarize and systematize content. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Patients affected by RPL want their partners and their families and friends to deal with the topic openly and empathically. In the partnership itself, acceptance of individual grieving modes and sharing a common goal are important factors. Men, in particular, want their partners to be optimistic in facing up to the situation. Regarding communication with family and friends, it transpired that ‘good advice’, playing the matter down, inquiries about family planning, pity and special treatment are explicitly not appreciated. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The sample was a convenience sample, so self-selection effects cannot be excluded. In addition, the level of education in the sample was above average. Accordingly, the sample cannot be regarded as representative. The results of the content analysis are based on the respondents’ written answers to open-ended questions in the questionnaire. Unlike qualitative interview studies, further questioning was not possible in the case of ambiguities or to request more details. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Frank and sincere communication about miscarriages and about one’s own emotions and needs should be promoted both in the partnership and among family members and friends in order to strengthen the potential of social support as a resource. Open communication about the different needs of both partners is necessary to create mutual understanding. The results show the importance not only of empathy and consideration for the couples concerned but also their desire not to be pitied. Striking a fine balance between fellow-feeling and pity may also lead to tension, and this potential dilemma should be addressed in psychosocial counselling. Overall, the study contributes to a better understanding of what couples want from their families and friends when they are attempting to come to terms with RPL and highlights potential challenges in the interaction between affected couples and their families and friends. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding was received for this study. None of the authors declared any conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00014965.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Jansen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg , Germany
| | - E Kuhlmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg , Germany
- Heidelberg University Women’s Hospital Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, , Germany
| | - P Scharli
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg , Germany
- Heidelberg University Women’s Hospital Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, , Germany
| | - M Schick
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg , Germany
- University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg , Germany
- University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg, Germany
| | - L Langer
- Heidelberg University Women’s Hospital Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, , Germany
| | - T Strowitzki
- Heidelberg University Women’s Hospital Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, , Germany
| | - R -J Kuon
- Heidelberg University Women’s Hospital Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, , Germany
| | - T Wischmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg , Germany
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de Graaff AM, Cuijpers P, Acarturk C, Akhtar A, Alkneme MS, Aoun M, Awwad M, Bawaneh AY, Brown FL, Bryant R, Burchert S, Carswell K, Drogendijk A, Engels M, Fuhr DC, Hansen P, van 't Hof E, Giardinelli L, Hemmo M, Hessling JM, Ilkkursun Z, Jordans MJD, Kiselev N, Knaevelsrud C, Kurt G, Martinmäki S, McDaid D, Morina N, Naser H, Park AL, Pfaltz MC, Roberts B, Schick M, Schnyder U, Spaaij J, Steen F, Taha K, Uygun E, Ventevogel P, Whitney C, Witteveen AB, Sijbrandij M. Scalable psychological interventions for Syrian refugees in Europe and the Middle East: STRENGTHS study protocol for a prospective individual participant data meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058101. [PMID: 35443961 PMCID: PMC9021771 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The World Health Organization's (WHO) scalable psychological interventions, such as Problem Management Plus (PM+) and Step-by-Step (SbS) are designed to be cost-effective non-specialist delivered interventions to reduce symptoms of common mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The STRENGTHS consortium aims to evaluate the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and implementation of the individual format of PM+ and its group version (gPM+), as well as of the digital SbS intervention among Syrian refugees in seven countries in Europe and the Middle East. This is a study protocol for a prospective individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis to evaluate (1) overall effectiveness and cost-effectiveness and (2) treatment moderators of PM+, gPM+ and SbS with Syrian refugees. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Five pilot randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and seven fully powered RCTs conducted within STRENGTHS will be combined into one IPD meta-analytic dataset. The RCTs include Syrian refugees of 18 years and above with elevated psychological distress (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10>15)) and impaired daily functioning (WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0>16)). Participants are randomised into the intervention or care as usual control group, and complete follow-up assessments at 1-week, 3-month and 12-month follow-up. Primary outcomes are symptoms of depression and anxiety (25-item Hopkins Symptom Checklist). Secondary outcomes include daily functioning (WHODAS 2.0), PTSD symptoms (PTSD Checklist for DSM-5) and self-identified problems (PSYCHLOPS). We will conduct a one-stage IPD meta-analysis using linear mixed models. Quality of evidence will be assessed using the GRADE approach, and the economic evaluation approach will be assessed using the CHEC-list. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Local ethical approval has been obtained for each RCT. This IPD meta-analysis does not require ethical approval. The results of this study will be published in international peer-reviewed journals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M de Graaff
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ceren Acarturk
- Department of Psychology, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aemal Akhtar
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mhd Salem Alkneme
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - May Aoun
- Research and Development Department, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Manar Awwad
- Technical Unit, International Medical Corps, London, UK
| | | | - Felicity L Brown
- Research and Development Department, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sebastian Burchert
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kenneth Carswell
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneve, Switzerland
| | | | - Michelle Engels
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniela C Fuhr
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Pernille Hansen
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Edith van 't Hof
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneve, Switzerland
| | | | - Mahmoud Hemmo
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonas M Hessling
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Mark J D Jordans
- Research and Development Department, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute of Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nikolai Kiselev
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Division of Clinical-Psychological Intervention, Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gülsah Kurt
- Department of Psychology, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Saara Martinmäki
- ARQ International, ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David McDaid
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, The London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hadeel Naser
- Technical Unit, International Medical Corps, London, UK
| | - A-La Park
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, The London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Monique C Pfaltz
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology and Social Work, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Frederik Steen
- Research and Development Department, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karine Taha
- Research and Development Department, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ersin Uygun
- Trauma and Disaster Mental Health Master Programme, Istanbul Bilgi University, Istanbul, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Peter Ventevogel
- Public Health, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Anke B Witteveen
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
We review the current theories of nanodomain, or "raft," formation. We emphasize that the idea that they are co-exisiting Lo and Ld phases is fraught with difficulties, as is the closely related idea that they are due to critical fluctuations. We then review an alternate theory that the plasma membrane is a two-dimensional microemulsion, and that the mechanism that drives to zero the line tension between Lo and Ld phases is the coupling of height and composition fluctuations. The theory yields rafts of SM and cholesterol in the outer leaf and POPS and POPC in the inner leaf. The "sea" between rafts consists of POPC in the outer leaf and POPE and cholesterol in the inner leaf. The characteristic size of the domain structures is tens of nanometers.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Allender
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Physics, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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Spaaij J, Kiselev N, Berger C, Bryant RA, Cuijpers P, de Graaff AM, Fuhr DC, Hemmo M, McDaid D, Moergeli H, Park AL, Pfaltz MC, Schick M, Schnyder U, Wenger A, Sijbrandij M, Morina N. Feasibility and acceptability of Problem Management Plus (PM+) among Syrian refugees and asylum seekers in Switzerland: a mixed-method pilot randomized controlled trial. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2002027. [PMID: 35126880 PMCID: PMC8812734 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.2002027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syrian refugees in Switzerland face several barriers in accessing mental health care. Cost-effective psychological interventions are urgently needed to meet the mental health needs of refugees. Problem Management Plus (PM+) is an evidence-based, psychological intervention delivered by trained non-specialist 'helpers'. OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility and acceptability of PM+ among Syrian refugees in Switzerland. METHODS We conducted a single-blind pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with Syrian refugees impaired by psychological distress (K10 > 15 and WHODAS 2.0 > 16). Participants were randomized to PM+ or Enhanced Treatment As Usual (ETAU). Participants were assessed at baseline, and 1 week and 3 months after the intervention, and completed measures indexing mental health problems and health care usage. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with different stakeholders. RESULTS N = 59 individuals were randomized into PM+ (n = 31) or ETAU (n = 28). N = 18 stakeholders were interviewed about facilitators and barriers for the implementation of PM+. Retention rates in the trial (67.8%) and mean intervention attendance (M = 3.94 sessions, SD = 1.97) were high. No severe events related to the study were reported. These findings indicate that the trial procedures and PM+ were feasible, acceptable and safe. CONCLUSIONS The findings support the conduct of a definitive RCT and show that PM+ might have the potential to be scaled-up in Switzerland. The importance, as well as the challenges, of implementing and scaling-up PM+ in high-income countries, such as Switzerland, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nikolai Kiselev
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christine Berger
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and Who Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne M de Graaff
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela C Fuhr
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mahmoud Hemmo
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David McDaid
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hanspeter Moergeli
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A-La Park
- Department of Health Policy, Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Monique C Pfaltz
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anna Wenger
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Schick M. [CME/Answers: Traumatized Refugees in Family Practice - A Quick Reference Guide]. Praxis (Bern 1994) 2021; 110:717-719. [PMID: 34583538 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
CME/Answers: Traumatized Refugees in Family Practice - A Quick Reference Guide Abstract. Traumatic experiences, flight and life in exile do not constitute an illness per se, but are associated with an increased risk of mental illness. In view of the lack of specialized treatment units, the general practitioner's office often remains the only place of treatment for traumatized refugees. Particularly challenging is the combination of complex complaints, multidimensional psychosocial stress factors and difficult treatment conditions which face managerial and organizational limitations in the dense daily practice routine. In this article, recommendations for working with this heterogeneous group of patients are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthis Schick
- Ambulatorium für Folter- und Kriegsopfer, Klinik für Konsiliarpsychiatrie und Psychosomatik, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich
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13
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Schick M. [CME: Traumatized Refugees in Family Practice - A Quick Reference Guide]. Praxis (Bern 1994) 2021; 110:681-688. [PMID: 34521270 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
CME: Traumatized Refugees in Family Practice - A Quick Reference Guide Abstract. Traumatic experiences, flight and life in exile do not constitute an illness per se, but are associated with an increased risk of mental illness. In view of the lack of specialized treatment units, the general practitioner's office often remains the only place of treatment for traumatized refugees. Particularly challenging is the combination of complex complaints, multidimensional psychosocial stress factors and difficult treatment conditions which face managerial and organizational limitations in the dense daily practice routine. In this article, recommendations for working with this heterogeneous group of patients are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthis Schick
- Ambulatorium für Folter- und Kriegsopfer, Klinik für Konsiliarpsychiatrie und Psychosomatik, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich
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14
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Kuhlmann E, Voss P, Schick M, Ditzen B, Langer L, Strowitzki T, Wischmann T, Kuon RJ. P-490 Recurrent pregnancy loss acts as a posttraumatic stress event in both women and men. Hum Reprod 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab125.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
What are the psychological impacts of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) on men and women and their interdependencies?
Summary answer
Women show higher psychological risks than men, except for lack of social support. Avoidance behaviour of men correlates with higher posttraumatic stress of their partner.
What is known already
About 1-3% of all couples trying to conceive are affected by RPL. The loss of the unborn child can be the most traumatic experience in a woman’s life and is associated with significant psychological distress besides the instant grief. RPL can also be stressful for the partner, even though being at a lower risk for psychiatric morbidities. The man’s gender role expects him to support and not to show weakness which may result in a suppression of his feelings and a disenfranchised grief.
Study design, size, duration
Cross-sectional study. All women and men referred to the special unit for RPL between March 2019 and October 2020 were asked to participate voluntarily with a total sample size of 105 couples and 17 women. Exclusion criteria were less than two pregnancy losses, inadequate knowledge of the German language and incomplete data.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
Couples were invited to fill out a questionnaire package estimating their psychological risks (e.g. posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, perceived social support) and coping strategies with established instruments. Clinical history was obtained from medical records. Couple data were analysed with the Actor Partner Interdependence Model, taking the couple as the unit of analysis.
Main results and the role of chance
The response rate was 82.3%. The following psychological risks were measured among women versus men: posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD): 13.7% versus 3.9% (p = 0.017); anxiety: 50.4% versus 17.3% (p < 0.001), depression: 48.1% versus 14.4% (p < 0.001), lack of social support: 32.5% versus 32.7% (N.S.). A risk in at least one category showed 68.9% of women versus 44.8% of men (p < 0.001), with those at higher risk indicating a lower satisfaction with their partnership (p < 0.001) and higher impairment of their sexual life (p < 0.001). Neither total number of pregnancy losses nor time gap since last pregnancy loss showed relevant correlations with psychological risks. For women, number of curettages, controlled for the number of pregnancy losses, correlates with the severity of posttraumatic stress (p < 0.05). Higher levels of anxiety, depression and a lack of social support in women correlated positively with posttraumatic stress in their partners. The coping strategy “trivialization and wishful thinking” as well as the subscale “avoidance” of the Impact-of-Event-Scale (self-report questionnaire measuring posttraumatic stress) of men was correlated with more severe posttraumatic stress in their female partners (both p < 0.05).
Limitations, reasons for caution
The data show only correlations between the measured variables, as cross-sectional studies are not suitable to analyse causal relationships. The sample was obtained in a special unit for RPL at a university hospital, so the findings may not be generalizable to all couples with RPL.
Wider implications of the findings
Screening psychological risks in couples with RPL may be reasonable considering the high risks in both sexes and the extent of PTSD diagnoses in women, their interdependencies and the potential risk of chronification. Professionals should encourage affected couples to support each other and provide targeted information on mental health services.
Trial registration number
DRKS 00014965
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kuhlmann
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Voss
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Schick
- University Hospital, Institute of Medical Psychology- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Ditzen
- University Hospital, Institute of Medical Psychology- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - L Langer
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Strowitzki
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Wischmann
- University Hospital, Institute of Medical Psychology- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - R J Kuon
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Kuhlmann E, Voss P, Schick M, Ditzen B, Langer L, Strowitzki T, Wischmann T, Kuon RJ. P–490 Recurrent pregnancy loss acts as a posttraumatic stress event in both women and men. Hum Reprod 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab130.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
What are the psychological impacts of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) on men and women and their interdependencies?
Summary answer
Women show higher psychological risks than men, except for lack of social support. Avoidance behaviour of men correlates with higher posttraumatic stress of their partner.
What is known already
About 1–3% of all couples trying to conceive are affected by RPL. The loss of the unborn child can be the most traumatic experience in a woman’s life and is associated with significant psychological distress besides the instant grief. RPL can also be stressful for the partner, even though being at a lower risk for psychiatric morbidities. The man’s gender role expects him to support and not to show weakness which may result in a suppression of his feelings and a disenfranchised grief.
Study design, size, duration
Cross-sectional study. All women and men referred to the special unit for RPL between March 2019 and October 2020 were asked to participate voluntarily with a total sample size of 105 couples and 17 women. Exclusion criteria were less than two pregnancy losses, inadequate knowledge of the German language and incomplete data.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
Couples were invited to fill out a questionnaire package estimating their psychological risks (e.g. posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, perceived social support) and coping strategies with established instruments. Clinical history was obtained from medical records. Couple data were analysed with the Actor Partner Interdependence Model, taking the couple as the unit of analysis.
Main results and the role of chance
The response rate was 82.3%. The following psychological risks were measured among women versus men: posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD): 13.7% versus 3.9% (p = 0.017); anxiety: 50.4% versus 17.3% (p < 0.001), depression: 48.1% versus 14.4% (p < 0.001), lack of social support: 32.5% versus 32.7% (N.S.). A risk in at least one category showed 68.9% of women versus 44.8% of men (p < 0.001), with those at higher risk indicating a lower satisfaction with their partnership (p < 0.001) and higher impairment of their sexual life (p < 0.001). Neither total number of pregnancy losses nor time gap since last pregnancy loss showed relevant correlations with psychological risks. For women, number of curettages, controlled for the number of pregnancy losses, correlates with the severity of posttraumatic stress (p < 0.05). Higher levels of anxiety, depression and a lack of social support in women correlated positively with posttraumatic stress in their partners. The coping strategy “trivialization and wishful thinking” as well as the subscale “avoidance” of the Impact-of-Event-Scale (self-report questionnaire measuring posttraumatic stress) of men was correlated with more severe posttraumatic stress in their female partners (both p < 0.05).
Limitations, reasons for caution
The data show only correlations between the measured variables, as cross-sectional studies are not suitable to analyse causal relationships. The sample was obtained in a special unit for RPL at a university hospital, so the findings may not be generalizable to all couples with RPL.
Wider implications of the findings: Screening psychological risks in couples with RPL may be reasonable considering the high risks in both sexes and the extent of PTSD diagnoses in women, their interdependencies and the potential risk of chronification. Professionals should encourage affected couples to support each other and provide targeted information on mental health services.
Trial registration number
DRKS 00014965
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kuhlmann
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - P Voss
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Schick
- University Hospital, Institute of Medical Psychology- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - B Ditzen
- University Hospital, Institute of Medical Psychology- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - L Langer
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Strowitzki
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - T Wischmann
- University Hospital, Institute of Medical Psychology- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - R J Kuon
- University Hospital, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg, Germany
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16
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Spaaij J, Schick M, Bryant RA, Schnyder U, Znoj H, Nickerson A, Morina N. An exploratory study of embitterment in traumatized refugees. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:96. [PMID: 34112232 PMCID: PMC8193876 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00599-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugees and asylum seekers are frequently exposed to violence, human rights violations and unstable living conditions before, during, and after their displacement. Elevated prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders in forcibly displaced persons are well documented. However, less is known about other problems related to common refugee experiences, such as embitterment, moral injury, and diminished self-efficacy, and how they are related to trauma exposure and post-migration living difficulties. METHODS A cross-sectional sample of 71 refugees and asylum seekers in treatment were examined regarding exposure to potentially traumatic events, post-migration living difficulties, moral injury appraisals, self-efficacy, and embitterment. RESULTS Elevated levels of embitterment were reported by 68% of participants. The regression analysis revealed that greater moral injury appraisals and low levels of self-efficacy were significantly associated with higher levels of embitterment. CONCLUSION The results provide first insights into embitterment and associated factors in refugee populations. Furthermore, they highlight the significance of moral transgressions and low levels of self-efficacy emerging from displacement and traumatic experiences for the development of mental health problems in a clinical sample of refugees. The findings have implications for future research, policy development and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Culmannstrasse 8, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Culmannstrasse 8, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Hansjörg Znoj
- Department of Psychology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Culmannstrasse 8, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
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17
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Wicki B, Spiller TR, Schick M, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Nickerson A, Morina N. A network analysis of postmigration living difficulties in refugees and asylum seekers. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1975941. [PMID: 34589179 PMCID: PMC8475100 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1975941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of mental disorders among asylum seekers and refugees is elevated compared to the general population. The importance of post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs), stressors faced after displacement, has recently been recognized due to research demonstrating their moderating role of on mental health outcomes. Traditionally, PMLDs were investigated as count variables or latent variables, disregarding plausible interrelationships among them. OBJECTIVES To use network analysis to investigate the associations among PMLDs. METHODS Based on a cross-sectional measurement of seventeen PMLDs in a clinical sample of traumatized asylum seekers and refugees (N = 151), a partial correlation network was estimated, and its characteristics assessed. RESULTS The network consisted of 71 of the 120 possible edges. The strongest edge was found between 'Communication difficulties' and 'Discrimination'. 'Loneliness, boredom, or isolation' had highest predictability. CONCLUSION Our finding of an association between communication difficulties and discrimination has been documented before and is of importance given the known negative impact of discrimination on mental and physical health outcomes. The high predictability of isolation is indicative of multiple associations with other PMLDs and highlights its importance among the investigated population. Our results are limited by the cross-sectional nature of our study and the relatively modest sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Wicki
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tobias R Spiller
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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18
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Kiselev N, Pfaltz M, Schick M, Bird M, Pernille H, Sijbrandij M, de Graaff AM, Schnyder U, Morina N. Problems faced by Syrian refugees and asylum seekers in Switzerland. Swiss Med Wkly 2020; 150:w20381. [PMID: 33105021 DOI: 10.4414/smw.2020.20381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugees and asylum seekers are susceptible to developing common mental disorders due to their exposure to stressful experiences before, during and after their flight. The Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, has led to a massive number of Syrians seeking refuge and asylum in European countries, including Switzerland. Currently, Syrians are the second-largest refugee and asylum-seeking population in Switzerland. However, very little is known about the problems faced by this new population in Switzerland and their needs relating to mental health services. Identifying the problems faced by this community is crucial to providing adapted and tailored mental health services to Syrian refugees in Switzerland. AIM OF HE STUDY The current study aimed to identify problems that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers face daily while living in Switzerland in order to inform the adaptation of a brief psychological intervention. METHODS We used a cross-sectional, qualitative design and collected data according to The Manual for Design, Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation of Mental Health and Psychosocial Assistance Programs for Trauma Survivors in order to identify problems perceived by the target population. Free-listing, open-ended interviews were conducted with 30 adult Syrian refugees and asylum seekers and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The results show that besides physical health problems, Syrians experience primarily two types of problems: practical and psychological (emotional) problems. These two types of problems are closely interrelated. The most common practical problems (problems with government and authorities, problems related to residence permits, problems with integration, cultural differences, language problems, problems related to education, problems related to employment, and problems with housing) were reported by almost half of all participants. Symptoms of mental disorders and feelings of uncertainty, frustration and injustice were the most common psychological problems and were mentioned by more than one third of the participants. The finding that almost half of the participants reported typical symptoms of mental health disorders suggests that a considerable number of Syrian refugees and asylum seekers might need mental healthcare. CONCLUSIONS Authorities, practitioners and researchers should recognize that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers are strongly affected by a broad range of problems. Besides practical problems, they suffer a multitude of psychological problems, and a significant number of them report, among other issues, symptoms of mental health disorders. Officials working with this population should be aware of this vulnerability and be prepared to refer clients in need of mental healthcare to mental healthcare providers. Moreover, the significant variety and number of problems experienced by this population should be taken into consideration when developing solutions tailored to their needs. BACKGROUND Refugees and asylum seekers are susceptible to developing common mental disorders due to their exposure to stressful experiences before, during and after their flight. The Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, has led to a massive number of Syrians seeking refuge and asylum in European countries, including Switzerland. Currently, Syrians are the second-largest refugee and asylum-seeking population in Switzerland. However, very little is known about the problems faced by this new population in Switzerland and their needs relating to mental health services. Identifying the problems faced by this community is crucial to providing adapted and tailored mental health services to Syrian refugees in Switzerland. AIM OF HE STUDY The current study aimed to identify problems that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers face daily while living in Switzerland in order to inform the adaptation of a brief psychological intervention. METHODS We used a cross-sectional, qualitative design and collected data according to The Manual for Design, Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation of Mental Health and Psychosocial Assistance Programs for Trauma Survivors in order to identify problems perceived by the target population. Free-listing, open-ended interviews were conducted with 30 adult Syrian refugees and asylum seekers and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The results show that besides physical health problems, Syrians experience primarily two types of problems: practical and psychological (emotional) problems. These two types of problems are closely interrelated. The most common practical problems (problems with government and authorities, problems related to residence permits, problems with integration, cultural differences, language problems, problems related to education, problems related to employment, and problems with housing) were reported by almost half of all participants. Symptoms of mental disorders and feelings of uncertainty, frustration and injustice were the most common psychological problems and were mentioned by more than one third of the participants. The finding that almost half of the participants reported typical symptoms of mental health disorders suggests that a considerable number of Syrian refugees and asylum seekers might need mental healthcare. CONCLUSIONS Authorities, practitioners and researchers should recognize that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers are strongly affected by a broad range of problems. Besides practical problems, they suffer a multitude of psychological problems, and a significant number of them report, among other issues, symptoms of mental health disorders. Officials working with this population should be aware of this vulnerability and be prepared to refer clients in need of mental healthcare to mental healthcare providers. Moreover, the significant variety and number of problems experienced by this population should be taken into consideration when developing solutions tailored to their needs. BACKGROUND Refugees and asylum seekers are susceptible to developing common mental disorders due to their exposure to stressful experiences before, during and after their flight. The Syrian Civil War, which started in 2011, has led to a massive number of Syrians seeking refuge and asylum in European countries, including Switzerland. Currently, Syrians are the second-largest refugee and asylum-seeking population in Switzerland. However, very little is known about the problems faced by this new population in Switzerland and their needs relating to mental health services. Identifying the problems faced by this community is crucial to providing adapted and tailored mental health services to Syrian refugees in Switzerland. AIM OF HE STUDY The current study aimed to identify problems that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers face daily while living in Switzerland in order to inform the adaptation of a brief psychological intervention. METHODS We used a cross-sectional, qualitative design and collected data according to The Manual for Design, Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation of Mental Health and Psychosocial Assistance Programs for Trauma Survivors in order to identify problems perceived by the target population. Free-listing, open-ended interviews were conducted with 30 adult Syrian refugees and asylum seekers and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The results show that besides physical health problems, Syrians experience primarily two types of problems: practical and psychological (emotional) problems. These two types of problems are closely interrelated. The most common practical problems (problems with government and authorities, problems related to residence permits, problems with integration, cultural differences, language problems, problems related to education, problems related to employment, and problems with housing) were reported by almost half of all participants. Symptoms of mental disorders and feelings of uncertainty, frustration and injustice were the most common psychological problems and were mentioned by more than one third of the participants. The finding that almost half of the participants reported typical symptoms of mental health disorders suggests that a considerable number of Syrian refugees and asylum seekers might need mental healthcare. CONCLUSIONS Authorities, practitioners and researchers should recognize that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers are strongly affected by a broad range of problems. Besides practical problems, they suffer a multitude of psychological problems, and a significant number of them report, among other issues, symptoms of mental health disorders. Officials working with this population should be aware of this vulnerability and be prepared to refer clients in need of mental healthcare to mental healthcare providers. Moreover, the significant variety and number of problems experienced by this population should be taken into consideration when developing solutions tailored to their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Kiselev
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland / University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland / PluSport, Umbrella Organization of Swiss Disabled Sports, Volketswil, Switzerland
| | - Monique Pfaltz
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland / University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martha Bird
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Denmark
| | - Hansen Pernille
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Denmark
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Amsterdam Public Health Institute, The Netherlands
| | - Anne M de Graaff
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Amsterdam Public Health Institute, The Netherlands
| | | | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland / University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Kiselev N, Morina N, Schick M, Watzke B, Schnyder U, Pfaltz MC. Barriers to access to outpatient mental health care for refugees and asylum seekers in Switzerland: the therapist's view. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:378. [PMID: 32680485 PMCID: PMC7366894 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02783-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 120,000 refugees and asylum seekers are currently living in Switzerland. The prevalence of mental disorders among this population is significantly higher than that in the general population. While effective treatment options and cross-cultural, specialized treatment centers exist, they tend to be overloaded by their target populations. General outpatient primary health care providers might be able to compensate for the lack of specialized treatment slots. To date, however, it is unknown how often and under what conditions (e.g., length of waiting lists) refugees and asylum seekers are treated outside of specialized centers and whether there are barriers that prevent providers in outpatient settings from treating more patients in this subgroup. The present study aimed to assess the challenges and barriers faced by psychiatrists and psychotherapists working in outpatient settings in Switzerland in treating refugees and asylum seekers to determine the potential capacity of this group to provide mental health care. METHODS An online survey was conducted during the winter of 2017/2018. The survey was constructed in three official languages and took 10-15 min to complete. Spearman's correlations, Mann-Whitney U-Tests, and Chi-squared tests were conducted to analyze the data. RESULTS Eight hundred and sixty-seven (N = 867) psychotherapists and psychiatrists working in outpatient settings completed the survey: 43% of them reported having treated between 1 and 9 refugees or asylum seekers in the past 12 months, and a further 13% reported treating 10 or more. Interpreters were used for almost every other patient with a refugee or asylum-seeker background. At the same time, the funding of interpreters, as well as the funding of treatment in general, were reported to be the biggest hurdles to treating more refugees and asylum seekers. CONCLUSIONS Given the low number of patients rejected for capacity reasons (between 2 and 5%) and the median waiting times for the admission of new patients ranging between 2 and 3 weeks, outpatient primary mental health care providers might treat more refugees and asylum seekers and relieve specialized treatment centers. However, barriers such as lack of funding of interpreters seem to hinder them. Appropriate steps by the authorities are needed to improve the current situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Kiselev
- grid.412004.30000 0004 0478 9977Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Naser Morina
- grid.412004.30000 0004 0478 9977Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- grid.412004.30000 0004 0478 9977Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Birgit Watzke
- grid.7400.30000 0004 1937 0650Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- grid.7400.30000 0004 1937 0650Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Monique C. Pfaltz
- grid.412004.30000 0004 0478 9977Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ,grid.7400.30000 0004 1937 0650Medical Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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21
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Lacour O, Morina N, Spaaij J, Nickerson A, Schnyder U, von Känel R, Bryant RA, Schick M. Prolonged Grief Disorder Among Refugees in Psychological Treatment-Association With Self-Efficacy and Emotion Regulation. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:526. [PMID: 32581893 PMCID: PMC7291948 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) among refugees has recently started to attract scientific attention, knowledge regarding associated psychological factors remains limited. Given the multifactorial context of persecution, trauma, displacement, and exile-related difficulties, obtaining a better understanding of PGD in refugees is crucial because PGD may affect psychological well-being, level of functioning, and social integration. METHODS In a sample of refugees receiving psychological treatment in Switzerland (N = 88), we examined the relationship between severity of PGD and potentially associated factors such as emotion regulation, perceived self-efficacy, as well as potentially traumatic events and post-migration living difficulties. RESULTS In a regression analysis, difficulties in emotion regulation and lower perceived self-efficacy were associated with greater severity of PGD, while post-migration living difficulties and potentially traumatic events did not emerge as significant factors. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that emotion regulation and perceived self-efficacy are associated with PGD in refugees in psychological treatment and are thus potential targets for treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriane Lacour
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julia Spaaij
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roland von Känel
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A. Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison-Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Allender DW, Giang H, Schick M. Model Plasma Membrane Exhibits a Microemulsion in Both Leaves Providing a Foundation for "Rafts". Biophys J 2020; 118:1019-1031. [PMID: 32023433 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We consider a model lipid plasma membrane, one that describes the outer leaf as consisting of sphingomyelin, phosphatidylcholine, and cholesterol and the inner leaf of phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, and cholesterol. Their relative compositions are taken from experiment; the cholesterol freely interchanges between leaves. Fluctuations in local composition are coupled to fluctuations in the local membrane curvature, as in the Leibler-Andelman mechanism. Structure factors of components in both leaves display a peak at nonzero wavevector. This indicates that the disordered fluid membrane is characterized by structure of the corresponding wavelength. The scale is given by membrane properties: its bending modulus and its surface tension, which arises from the membrane's connections to the cytoskeleton. From measurements on the plasma membrane, this scale is on the order of 100 nm. We find that the membrane can be divided into two different kinds of domains that differ not only in their composition but also in their curvature. The first domain in the outer, exoplasmic leaf is rich in cholesterol and sphingomyelin, whereas the inner, cytoplasmic leaf is rich in phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylcholine. The second kind of domain is rich in phosphatidylcholine in the outer leaf and in cholesterol and phosphatidylethanolamine in the inner leaf. The theory provides a tenable basis for the origin of structure in the plasma membrane and an illuminating picture of the organization of lipids therein.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Allender
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Department of Physics, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
| | - Ha Giang
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Viettel Aerospace Institute, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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Alempijevic D, Beriashvili R, Beynon J, Alempijevic Petersen D, Birmanns B, Brasholt M, Cohen J, Alempijevic Petersen D, Duque M, Duterte P, Van Es A, Fernando R, Korur Fincanci S, Holger Hansen S, Hamzeh S, Hardi L, Heisler M, Iacopino V, Mygind Leth P, Lin J, Louahlia S, Luytkis H, Louahlia S, Morcillo-Mendez MD, Moreno A, Moscoso V, Oral R, Ozkalipci O, Payne-James J, Quiroga J, Ozkalipci O, Reyes H, Rogde S, Sajantilla A, Ozkalipci O, Schick M, Terzidis A, Lange Thomsen J, Tidball-Binz M, Treue F, Vanezis P, Viera DN. Statement of the Independent Forensic Expert Group on Conversion Therapy. Torture 2020; 30:66-78. [PMID: 32657772 DOI: 10.7146/torture.v30i1.119654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Conversion therapy is a set of practices that aim to change or alter an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. It is premised on a belief that an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity can be changed and that doing so is a desirable outcome for the individual, family, or community. Other terms used to describe this practice include sexual orientation change effort (SOCE), reparative therapy, reintegrative therapy, reorientation therapy, ex-gay therapy, and gay cure. Conversion therapy is practiced in every region of the world. We have identified sources confirming or indicating that conversion therapy is performed in over 60 countries. In those countries where it is performed, a wide and variable range of practices are believed to create change in an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. Some examples of these include: talk therapy or psychotherapy (e.g., exploring life events to identify the cause); group therapy; medication (including anti-psychotics, anti- depressants, anti-anxiety, and psychoactive drugs, and hormone injections); Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (where an individual focuses on a traumatic memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation); electroshock or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) (where electrodes are attached to the head and electric current is passed between them to induce seizure); aversive treatments (including electric shock to the hands and/or genitals or nausea-inducing medication administered with presentation of homoerotic stimuli); exorcism or ritual cleansing (e.g., beating the individual with a broomstick while reading holy verses or burning the individual's head, back, and palms); force-feeding or food deprivation; forced nudity; behavioural conditioning (e.g., being forced to dress or walk in a particular way); isolation (sometimes for long periods of time, which may include solitary confinement or being kept from interacting with the outside world); verbal abuse; humiliation; hypnosis; hospital confinement; beatings; and "corrective" rape. Conversion therapy appears to be performed widely by health professionals, including medical doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, sexologists, and therapists. It is also conducted by spiritual leaders, religious practitioners, traditional healers, and community or family members. Conversion therapy is undertaken both in contexts under state control, e.g., hospitals, schools, and juvenile detention facilities, as well as in private settings like homes, religious institutions, or youth camps and retreats. In some countries, conversion therapy is imposed by the order or instructions of public officials, judges, or the police. The practice is undertaken with both adults and minors who may be lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or gender diverse. Parents are also known to send their children back to their country of origin to receive it. The practice supports the belief that non-heterosexual orientations are deviations from the norm, reflecting a disease, disorder, or sin. The practitioner conveys the message that heterosexuality is the normal and healthy sexual orientation and gender identity. The purpose of this medico-legal statement is to provide legal experts, adjudicators, health care professionals, and policy makers, among others, with an understanding of: 1) the lack of medical and scientific validity of conversion therapy; 2) the likely physical and psychological consequences of undergoing conversion therapy; and 3) whether, based on these effects, conversion therapy constitutes cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or torture when individuals are subjected to it forcibly2 or without their consent. This medico-legal statement also addresses the responsibility of states in regulating this practice, the ethical implications of offering or performing it, and the role that health professionals and medical and mental health organisations should play with regards to this practice. Definitions of conversion therapy vary. Some include any attempt to change, suppress, or divert an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This medico-legal statement only addresses those practices that practitioners believe can effect a genuine change in an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. Acts of physical and psychological violence or discrimination that aim solely to inflict pain and suffering or punish individuals due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, are not addressed, but are wholly condemned. This medico-legal statement follows along the lines of our previous publications on Anal Examinations in Cases of Alleged Homosexuality1 and on Forced Virginity Testing.2 In those statements, we opposed attempts to minimise the severity of physical and psychological pain and suffering caused by these examinations by qualifying them as medical in nature. There is no medical justification for inflicting on individuals torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. In addition, these statements reaffirmed that health professionals should take no role in attempting to control sexuality and knowingly or unknowingly supporting state-sponsored policing and punishing of individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
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Kiselev N, Pfaltz M, Haas F, Schick M, Kappen M, Sijbrandij M, De Graaff AM, Bird M, Hansen P, Ventevogel P, Fuhr DC, Schnyder U, Morina N. Structural and socio-cultural barriers to accessing mental healthcare among Syrian refugees and asylum seekers in Switzerland. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1717825. [PMID: 32128044 PMCID: PMC7034440 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1717825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Due to their experiences of major stressful life events, including post-displacement stressors, refugees and asylum seekers are vulnerable to developing mental health problems. Yet, despite the availability of specialized mental health services in Western European host countries, refugees and asylum seekers display low mental healthcare utilization. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore structural and socio-cultural barriers to accessing mental healthcare among Syrian refugees and asylum seekers in Switzerland. Method: In this qualitative study, key-informant (KI) interviews with Syrian refugees and asylum seekers, Swiss healthcare providers and other stakeholders (e.g. refugee coordinators or leaders) were conducted in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Participants were recruited using snowball sampling. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed, and then analysed using thematic analysis, combining deductive and inductive coding. Results: Findings show that Syrian refugees and asylum seekers face multiple structural and socio-cultural barriers, with socio-cultural barriers being perceived as more pronounced. Syrian key informants, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders identified language, gatekeeper-associated problems, lack of resources, lack of awareness, fear of stigma and a mismatch between the local health system and perceived needs of Syrian refugees and asylum seekers as key barriers to accessing care. Conclusions: The results show that for Syrian refugees and asylum seekers in Switzerland several barriers exist. This is in line with previous findings. A possible solution for the current situation might be to increase the agility of the service system in general and to improve the willingness to embrace innovative paths, rather than adapting mental healthcare services regarding single barriers and needs of a new target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Kiselev
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Monique Pfaltz
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Florence Haas
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marie Kappen
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne M De Graaff
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Amsterdam Public Health Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martha Bird
- Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pernille Hansen
- Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Ventevogel
- Public Health Section, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daniela C Fuhr
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Allender DW, Sodt AJ, Schick M. Cholesterol-Dependent Bending Energy Is Important in Cholesterol Distribution of the Plasma Membrane. Biophys J 2019; 116:2356-2366. [PMID: 31023537 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2019.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We consider the plasma membrane that contains a cholesterol molar fraction of 0.4 and ask how that cholesterol is distributed between the two leaves. Because of the rapid flip-flop of cholesterol between leaves, we assume that its distribution is determined by the equality of its chemical potentials in the two leaves. When we consider only the contributions of entropy and interactions to the cholesterol chemical potential in our model system, we find, not surprisingly, that the cholesterol is mostly in the outer leaf because of the strong attraction between cholesterol and sphingomyelin (SM), which is predominantly in that leaf. We find 72% there. We then include the contribution from the bending energy in each leaf that must be overcome to join the leaves in a flat bilayer. The product of bending modulus and spontaneous curvature is obtained from simulation. We find that the addition of cholesterol to the outer leaf reduces the spontaneous curvature, which is initially positive, until it passes through zero when the molar fraction of cholesterol in the outer leaf is 0.28. Additional cholesterol is driven toward the inner leaf by the sphingomyelin phosphatidylcholine mixture. This is resisted by the bending energy contribution to the inner leaf. We find, again by simulation, that the addition of cholesterol monotonically increases the magnitude of the spontaneous curvature of the inner leaf, which is negative. This increases its bending energy. We conclude that, as a result of these competing effects, the percentage of cholesterol in the outer leaf is reduced to ∼63 ± 6%.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Allender
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Department of Physics, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio
| | - A J Sodt
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
| | - M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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Geiser M, Schick M, Wischmann T, Toth B, Böttcher B. Reziproke Wirkungen von Endometriose, Kinderwunsch und Partnerschaft bei Patientinnen und Partnern. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2019. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1678375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Geiser
- Klinik für gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Reproduktionsmedizin, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck (MUI), Österreich
| | - M Schick
- Institut für Medizinische Psychologie im Zentrum für Psychosoziale Medizin (ZPM), Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
| | - T Wischmann
- Institut für Medizinische Psychologie im Zentrum für Psychosoziale Medizin (ZPM), Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
| | - B Toth
- Klinik für gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Reproduktionsmedizin, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck (MUI), Österreich
| | - B Böttcher
- Klinik für gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Reproduktionsmedizin, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck (MUI), Österreich
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Spiller TR, Liddell BJ, Schick M, Morina N, Schnyder U, Pfaltz M, Bryant RA, Nickerson A. Emotional Reactivity, Emotion Regulation Capacity, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Traumatized Refugees: An Experimental Investigation. J Trauma Stress 2019; 32:32-41. [PMID: 30729584 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Refugees who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often react with strong emotions when confronted with trauma reminders. In this study, we aimed to investigate the associations between low emotion regulation capacity (as indexed by low heart rate variability [HRV]), probable PTSD diagnosis, and fear and anger reaction and recovery to trauma-related stimuli. Participants were 81 trauma-exposed refugees (probable PTSD, n = 23; trauma-exposed controls, n = 58). The experiment comprised three 5-min phases: a resting phase (baseline); an exposition phase, during which participants were exposed to trauma-related images (stimulus); and another resting phase (recovery). We assessed HRV at baseline, and fear and anger were rated at the end of each phase. Linear mixed model analyses were used to investigate the associations between baseline HRV and probable DSM-5 PTSD diagnosis in influencing anger and fear responses both immediately after viewing trauma-related stimuli and at the end of the recovery phase. Compared to controls, participants with probable PTSD showed a greater increase in fear from baseline to stimulus presentation, d = 0.606. Compared to participants with low emotion regulation capacity, participants with high emotion regulation capacity showed a smaller reduction in anger from stimulus presentation to recovery, d = 0.548. Our findings indicated that following exposure to trauma-related stimuli, probable PTSD diagnosis predicted increased fear reactivity, and low emotion regulation capacity predicted decreased anger recovery. Impaired anger recovery following trauma reminders in the context of low emotion regulation capacity might contribute to the increased levels of anger found in postconflict samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias R Spiller
- University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Belinda J Liddell
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthis Schick
- University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Naser Morina
- University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Monique Pfaltz
- University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Werner J, Umstatter C, Kennedy E, Grant J, Leso L, Geoghegan A, Shalloo L, Schick M, O'Brien B. Identification of possible cow grazing behaviour indicators for restricted grass availability in a pasture-based spring calving dairy system. Livest Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Morina N, Kuenburg A, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Nickerson A, Schick M. The Association of Post-traumatic and Postmigration Stress with Pain and Other Somatic Symptoms: An Explorative Analysis in Traumatized Refugees and Asylum Seekers. Pain Med 2019; 19:50-59. [PMID: 28340069 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnx005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Objective Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and somatic symptoms, such as pain, are frequently seen in refugees. Their relationship is poorly understood, and the treatment of these comorbid conditions can be very challenging. The current cross-sectional study examined pain and other somatic symptoms and their relationship with trauma history, PTSD symptom clusters, and current living difficulties among treatment-seeking refugees. Methods One hundred thirty-four treatment-seeking traumatized refugees (78% male, mean age = 42 years) were assessed regarding lifetime traumatic experiences, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, overall pain and somatic symptoms, and postmigration living difficulties. Results An exploratory factor analysis of the 12 somatic symptoms revealed two distinct factors: somatic symptoms related to bodily dysfunction ("weakness") and somatic symptoms related to increased sympathetic activity ("arousal"). DSM-5 PTSD Criteria D "alterations in cognitions and mood" and E "alterations in arousal and reactivity" were primarily related to "weakness," while PTSD Criterion E "alterations in arousal and reactivity" and postmigration living difficulties were associated with "arousal." Overall pain was associated primarily with living difficulties and PTSD Criterion D and Criterion E. Conclusions Results indicate that somatic symptoms are of considerable concern among traumatized refugees and that different patterns of somatic symptoms are associated with different clusters of PTSD symptoms. The findings contribute to the better understanding of the symptom presentation of traumatized people who are experiencing somatization and potentially inform treatment directions and highlight the importance of screening for PTSD in refugees presenting with pain and somatic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexa Kuenburg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Zheng B, Man X, Ou-Yang ZC, Schick M, Andelman D. Orienting Thin Films of Lamellar Block Copolymer: The Combined Effect of Mobile Ions and Electric Field. Macromolecules 2018. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.8b01506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zheng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Theoretical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xingkun Man
- Center of Soft Matter Physics and Its Applications, and School of Physics and Nuclear Energy Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhong-Can Ou-Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Theoretical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - M. Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - David Andelman
- Raymond and Beverly Sackler School of Physics and Astronomy, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
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31
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Le L, Morina N, Schnyder U, Schick M, Bryant RA, Nickerson A. The effects of perceived torture controllability on symptom severity of posttraumatic stress, depression and anger in refugees and asylum seekers: A path analysis. Psychiatry Res 2018; 264:143-150. [PMID: 29631246 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.03.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Torture is associated with greater psychopathology, however, the specific mechanisms underlying the effects of torture remain unclear. Research suggests that the perceived uncontrollable nature of, rather than the exposure to, torture, influences the development of psychological disorders. Perceived distress during torture has also been shown to influence psychological outcomes. This cross-sectional study explored the relationship between perceived torture controllability, emotions (i.e., anger and fear) during torture, and current posttraumatic stress (PTS), depression and anger symptoms, controlling for the effects of post-migration living difficulties. Data were collected from 108 refugees and asylum seekers in treatment at two psychiatric clinics in Zurich, Switzerland. Path analyses revealed negative correlations between PTS, depression and anger symptoms, and perceived torture controllability, and positive correlations with anger and fear during torture. Furthermore, the effects of perceived torture controllability on PTS and depression symptoms were mediated by fear during torture, and on anger symptoms via anger during torture. This was over and above the effects of post-migration living difficulties on psychological symptoms. The study provides preliminary evidence that perceived uncontrollability and distress during torture might be significant risk factors for current mental health of torture survivors. These findings may have implications for informing interventions for torture survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian Le
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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Schick M, Wischmann T, Ditzen B. Der Mann und seine Psyche in der Kinderwunschbehandlung. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1622763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Schick
- Institut für Medizinische Psychologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
| | - T Wischmann
- Institut für Medizinische Psychologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
| | - B Ditzen
- Institut für Medizinische Psychologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
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Morina N, Bryant RA, Doolan EL, Martin-Sölch C, Plichta MM, Pfaltz MC, Schnyder U, Schick M, Nickerson A. The impact of enhancing perceived self-efficacy in torture survivors. Depress Anxiety 2018; 35:58-64. [PMID: 28881455 DOI: 10.1002/da.22684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perceived self-efficacy (SE) is an important factor underlying psychological well-being. Refugees suffer many experiences that can compromise SE. This study tested the impact of enhancing perceived SE on coping with trauma reminders and distress tolerance in tortured refugees. METHODS Torture survivors (N = 40) were administered a positive SE induction in which they retrieved mastery-related autobiographical memories, or a non-SE (NSE) induction, and then viewed trauma-related images. Participants rated their distress following presentation of each image. Participants then completed a frustration-inducing mirror-tracing task to index distress tolerance. RESULTS Participants in the SE condition reported less distress and negative affect, and improved coping in relation to viewing the trauma-related images than those in the NSE condition. The SE induction also led to greater persistence with the mirror-tracing task than the NSE induction. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide initial evidence that promoting SE in tortured refugees can assist with managing distress from trauma reminders, and promoting greater distress tolerance. Enhancing perceived SE in tortured refugees may increase their capacity to tolerate distress during therapy, and may be a useful means to improve treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emma L Doolan
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Chantal Martin-Sölch
- Unit of Clinical and Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Michael M Plichta
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Monique C Pfaltz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Schick M, Morina N, Mistridis P, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Nickerson A. Changes in Post-migration Living Difficulties Predict Treatment Outcome in Traumatized Refugees. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:476. [PMID: 30356791 PMCID: PMC6189477 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Refugee mental health is affected by traumatic stressors as well as post-migration living difficulties (PMLD). However, their interaction and causal pathways are unclear, and so far, no distinct treatment recommendations regarding exile-related stressors exist. Methods: In a 3-year follow-up study, PMLD and symptoms of post-traumatic stress (PTS), depression and anxiety were examined in a clinical sample of severely traumatized refugees and asylum seekers (N = 71). Results: In regression analysis, reduction in PMLD predicted changes over time in depression/anxiety, but not in PTS. The opposite models with PMLD changes as outcome variable proved not significant for PTS, and significant, though less predictive, for depression/anxiety. Conclusions: In addition to well-established trauma-focused interventions for the treatment of PTS, psychosocial interventions focusing on PMLD might contribute to a favorable treatment response in traumatized refugees, particularly with regard to depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Panagiota Mistridis
- Department of Consultation Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Nickerson A, Hoffman J, Schick M, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Morina N. A Longitudinal Investigation of Moral Injury Appraisals Amongst Treatment-Seeking Refugees. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:667. [PMID: 30618859 PMCID: PMC6305427 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
There is currently an unprecedented number of forcibly displaced people worldwide. Understanding psychological mechanisms that contribute to the mental health of refugees and asylum-seekers is important for informing the development of effective interventions for these populations. Moral injury appraisals represent an important potential cognitive mechanism that may contribute to psychological symptoms following exposure to persecution, war, and displacement. In the current study, we investigated the longitudinal association between moral injury appraisals related to one's own perceived transgressions (moral injury-self), others' perceived transgressions (moral injury-other), and PTSD and depression symptoms. Participants in this study were 134 refugees receiving treatment at two outpatient clinics in Switzerland who completed survey measures investigating these concepts. Of these, 71 were followed up 2 to 4 years later. Path analyses revealed that greater depression symptoms were associated with subsequent increases in moral injury-self appraisals (β = 0.25, SE = 0.08, 95% CI [0.11, 0.43], p = 0.002). In contrast, greater moral injury-self appraisals were associated with subsequent decreases in PTSD symptoms (β = -0.23, SE = 0.11, 95% CI = [-0.44, -0.31], p = 0.035). Findings suggest that different types of moral injury appraisals may be associated with differential psychological outcomes. These results have important potential implications for policy and treatment of refugees and asylum-seekers, highlighting the importance of targeting cognitive factors in the maintenance and treatment of psychological distress, and considering the post-migration context when working with refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joel Hoffman
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Consultation-Liason Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Consultation-Liason Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Consultation-Liason Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Allender DW, Schick M. The Effect of Solutes on the Temperature of Miscibility Transitions in Multicomponent Membranes. Biophys J 2017; 113:1814-1821. [PMID: 29045875 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We address questions posed by experiments that show small-chain alcohols reduce the miscibility transition temperature when added to giant plasma membrane vesicles (GPMVs), but increase that temperature when added to giant unilamellar vesicles. In giant unilamellar vesicles the change in temperature displays a definite minimum, between decanol and tetradecanol, as a function of alcohol chain length; in GPMVs there is no such minimum. To emphasize the competition between internal entropies of the components and the interactions between them, we model the system as consisting of three different linear polymers. Two of them are the constituents of a liquid, one that can undergo a miscibility transition. To this liquid is added the third polymer component, which represents the short-chain alcohol. We show that, within Flory-Huggins theory, the addition of alcohol causes an increase or decrease of the miscibility transition temperature depending upon the competition of two effects. The first is the dilution of the interactions between the two components of the liquid caused by the introduction of the alcohol. This tends to lower the transition temperature. The second effect is the preferential partitioning of the alcohol into one phase of the liquid or the other. This tends to raise the transition temperature irrespective of which phase the alcohol prefers. This second effect is the smallest, and the decrease in transition temperature the largest, when the alcohol partitions equally between the two phases. Such equal partitioning occurs when the effect of the entropic excluded volume interactions (which cause the alcohol to prefer one phase) just balances the effect of the direct interactions, which cause it to prefer the other. These results allow us to make several predictions, and to propose an explanation for the different behavior of the transition temperature in GPMVs and giant unilamellar vesicles that results from the addition of alcohols.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Allender
- Department of Physics, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio; Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-1560, United States
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38
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Morina N, Ewers SM, Passardi S, Schnyder U, Knaevelsrud C, Müller J, Bryant RA, Nickerson A, Schick M. Mental health assessments in refugees and asylum seekers: evaluation of a tablet-assisted screening software. Confl Health 2017; 11:18. [PMID: 29026438 PMCID: PMC5623980 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-017-0120-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mental health problems resulting from persecution and forced migration are very common among refugees and asylum seekers and evolve into a major public health challenge in hosting societies. Language barriers often prevent timely access to appropriate health care, leading to chronic trajectories and abortive social integration. Tools for multilingual screening and assessment could be of great benefit for this particularly vulnerable population as well as for policy makers. This study aimed at testing the reliability, feasibility and usability of the Multi-Adaptive Psychological Screening Software (MAPSS), a newly developed Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview Software (ACASI) for touchscreen devices, for screening purposes in a clinical setting. Methods In a randomized cross-over design including both MAPSS and paper-pencil clinician-administered interviews, 30 treatment-seeking refugees completed clinical measures and a feasibility questionnaire to rate the user interface of MAPSS. Five professionals performed given tasks in MAPSS and completed usability questionnaires for the administration interface. Results Results showed no differences between the two assessment modalities with regard to symptom scores. The findings suggest good feasibility and usability of MAPSS in traumatized refugees. The administration via MAPSS was significantly shorter than the paper-pencil interview. Conclusion MAPSS may be a cost-effective, flexible and valid alternative to interpreter-based psychometric screening and assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simon M Ewers
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Passardi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Department of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Müller
- Psychiatric Services Thurgau, CH-8596 Münsterlingen, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, N.S.W. 2052 Australia
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, N.S.W. 2052 Australia
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Culmannstrasse 8, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland
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Werner J, Leso L, Umstatter C, Niederhauser J, Kennedy E, Geoghegan A, Shalloo L, Schick M, O'Brien B. Evaluation of the RumiWatchSystem for measuring grazing behaviour of cows. J Neurosci Methods 2017; 300:138-146. [PMID: 28842192 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2017.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Feeding behaviour is an important parameter of animal performance, health and welfare, as well as reflecting levels and quality of feed available. Previously, sensors were only used for measuring animal feeding behaviour in indoor housing systems. However, sensors such as the RumiWatchSystem can also monitor such behaviour continuously in pasture-based environments. Therefore, the aim of this study was to validate the RumiWatchSystem to record cow activity and feeding behaviour in a pasture-based system. The RumiWatchSystem was evaluated against visual observation across two different experiments. The time duration per hour at grazing, rumination, walking, standing and lying recorded by the RumiWatchSystem was compared to the visual observation data in Experiment 1. Concordance Correlation Coefficient (CCC) values of CCC=0.96 for grazing, CCC=0.99 for rumination, CCC=1.00 for standing and lying and CCC=0.92 for walking were obtained. The number of grazing and rumination bouts within one hour were also analysed resulting in Cohen's Kappa (κ)=0.62 and κ=0.86 for grazing and rumination bouts, respectively. Experiment 2 focused on the validation of grazing bites and rumination chews. The accordance between visual observation and automated measurement by the RumiWatchSystem was high with CCC=0.78 and CCC=0.94 for grazing bites and rumination chews, respectively. These results indicate that the RumiWatchSystem is a reliable sensor technology for observing cow activity and feeding behaviour in a pasture based milk production system, and may be used for research purposes in a grazing environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Werner
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland; University of Hohenheim, Institute for Agricultural Engineering, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - L Leso
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland; University of Florence, Department of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Systems, 50145 Firenze, Italy
| | - C Umstatter
- Agroscope, Research Division Competitiveness and System Evaluation, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - J Niederhauser
- InnoClever GmbH, Tiergartenstrasse 7, 4410 Liestal, Switzerland
| | - E Kennedy
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - A Geoghegan
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - L Shalloo
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - M Schick
- Agroscope, Research Division Competitiveness and System Evaluation, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - B O'Brien
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
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Nickerson A, Schick M, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Morina N. Comorbidity of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Depression in Tortured, Treatment-Seeking Refugees. J Trauma Stress 2017; 30:409-415. [PMID: 28763568 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression is common in refugee groups; however, little is known about the predictors and correlates of comorbidity in treatment-seeking refugees. Participants in this study were 134 refugees resettled in Switzerland. Most participants were from Turkey, Iran, and Sri Lanka, and 92.7% had been exposed to torture. Self-report measures were implemented to assess PTSD, depression, mental and physical health-related quality of life (QoL), as well as pre- and postmigration experiences. Findings indicated that approximately half the sample met criteria for PTSD and depression, 33.6% met criteria for depression only, and only 2.2% met criteria for PTSD only. Several variables emerged as predictors of comorbidity in contrast to no diagnosis: female gender, odds ratio (OR) = 0.17; age, OR = 0.93; time in Switzerland, OR = 1.16; and trauma exposure, OR = 1.19. Postmigration stress was also associated with greater likelihood of comorbidity compared with no diagnosis, OR = 1.32, and a single diagnosis, OR = 1.14. Further, dual diagnosis was associated with significantly poorer mental health-related and physical health-related QoL (mental health-related QoL: dual diagnosis vs. single diagnosis, d = -0.52 and dual diagnosis vs. no diagnosis, d = -1.30; physical health-related QoL: dual diagnosis vs. single diagnosis, d = -0.73 and dual diagnosis vs. no diagnosis: d = -1.04). Findings indicated that comorbidity was highly prevalent in this sample of treatment-seeking refugees and was associated with a substantial impairment burden. Psychological interventions for refugees should consider the dual impact of PTSD and depression symptoms to optimally decrease distress and improve QoL in this vulnerable group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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Spegel H, Schick M, Müller C, Herr C. Durchführung einer Gefährdungsbeurteilung zu psychischen Belastungen am Beispiel einer Behörde. Gesundheitswesen 2017. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1601935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H Spegel
- Bayerisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit, München
| | - M Schick
- Bayerisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit, Oberschleißheim
| | - C Müller
- Bayerisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit, Erlangen
| | - C Herr
- Bayerisches Landesamt für Gesundheit und Lebensmittelsicherheit, München
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Sijbrandij M, Acarturk C, Bird M, Bryant RA, Burchert S, Carswell K, de Jong J, Dinesen C, Dawson KS, El Chammay R, van Ittersum L, Jordans M, Knaevelsrud C, McDaid D, Miller K, Morina N, Park AL, Roberts B, van Son Y, Sondorp E, Pfaltz MC, Ruttenberg L, Schick M, Schnyder U, van Ommeren M, Ventevogel P, Weissbecker I, Weitz E, Wiedemann N, Whitney C, Cuijpers P. Strengthening mental health care systems for Syrian refugees in Europe and the Middle East: integrating scalable psychological interventions in eight countries. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2017; 8:1388102. [PMID: 29163867 PMCID: PMC5687806 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2017.1388102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The crisis in Syria has resulted in vast numbers of refugees seeking asylum in Syria's neighbouring countries as well as in Europe. Refugees are at considerable risk of developing common mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Most refugees do not have access to mental health services for these problems because of multiple barriers in national and refugee specific health systems, including limited availability of mental health professionals. To counter some of challenges arising from limited mental health system capacity the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a range of scalable psychological interventions aimed at reducing psychological distress and improving functioning in people living in communities affected by adversity. These interventions, including Problem Management Plus (PM+) and its variants, are intended to be delivered through individual or group face-to-face or smartphone formats by lay, non-professional people who have not received specialized mental health training, We provide an evidence-based rationale for the use of the scalable PM+ oriented programmes being adapted for Syrian refugees and provide information on the newly launched STRENGTHS programme for adapting, testing and scaling up of PM+ in various modalities in both neighbouring and European countries hosting Syrian refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marit Sijbrandij
- Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ceren Acarturk
- Department of Psychology, Istanbul Sehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Martha Bird
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sebastian Burchert
- Department of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kenneth Carswell
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Joop de Jong
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cecilie Dinesen
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katie S Dawson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rabih El Chammay
- Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Mark Jordans
- Department of Research and Development, War Child, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Center for Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Department of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - David McDaid
- Department of Health Policy, Personal Social Services Research Unit, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Kenneth Miller
- Department of Research and Development, War Child, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Naser Morina
- University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A-La Park
- Department of Health Policy, Personal Social Services Research Unit, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Bayard Roberts
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Yvette van Son
- Region Netherlands Centre and North, i-Psy Mental Health Care, Almere, the Netherlands
| | - Egbert Sondorp
- KIT Royal Tropical Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Monique C Pfaltz
- University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Matthis Schick
- University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark van Ommeren
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Peter Ventevogel
- Public Health Section, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Erica Weitz
- Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nana Wiedemann
- International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Pim Cuijpers
- Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Spiller TR, Schick M, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Nickerson A, Morina N. Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder in a clinical sample of refugees: a network analysis. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2017; 8:1318032. [PMID: 29038688 PMCID: PMC5639426 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2017.1318032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Network analysis is an emerging methodology for investigating psychopathological symptoms. Given the unprecedented number of refugees and the increased prevalence of mental disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in this population, new methodologies that help us better to understand psychopathology in refugees are crucial. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the network structure and centrality indices of DSM-5 PTSD symptoms in a cross-sectional clinical sample of 151 severely traumatized refugees with and without a formal PTSD diagnosis. Method: The R-packages qgraph and bootnet were used to estimate the structure of a PTSD symptom network and its centrality indices. In addition, robustness and significance analyses for the edges weights and the order of centrality were performed. Results: Three pairs of symptoms showed significantly stronger connections than at least half of the other connections: hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response, intrusion and difficulties falling asleep, and irritability or outbursts of anger and self-destructive or reckless behaviour. Emotional cue reactivity had the highest centrality and trauma-related amnesia the lowest. Conclusion: Although only 51.0% of participants fulfilled criteria for a probable PTSD diagnosis, emotional cue reactivity showed the highest centrality, emphasizing the importance of emotional trauma reminders in severely traumatized refugees attending an outpatient clinic. However, due to the small sample size, the results should be interpreted with care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias R Spiller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Nickerson A, Cloitre M, Bryant RA, Schnyder U, Morina N, Schick M. Response to the Letter to the Editor regarding 'The factor structure of complex posttraumatic stress disorder in traumatized refugees'. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2017; 8:1308200. [PMID: 28451074 PMCID: PMC5399989 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2017.1308200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marylene Cloitre
- New York University School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Zurich University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
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Abstract
I consider the effect of a small concentration of a molecule, such as a short-chain alcohol, on the miscibility transition temperature of a giant plasma membrane vesicle. For concentrations sufficiently small such that the system can be treated as a dilute solution, the change in transition temperature is known to depend upon the extent of the molecule's partition into the coexisting liquid-disordered and liquid-ordered phases. Preferential partitioning into the former decreases the miscibility temperature, while preferential partitioning into the latter causes an increase. The analysis, combined with calculated values of the partition coefficient of saturated chains, illuminates the results of recent experiments on the change in miscibility transition temperatures with changing alcohol chain length, and makes several testable predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
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Dehghan A, Schick M, Shi AC. Erratum: “Effect of mobile ions on the electric field needed to orient charged diblock copolymer thin films” [J. Chem. Phys. 143, 134902 (2015)]. J Chem Phys 2016; 145:219902. [DOI: 10.1063/1.4971862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ashkan Dehghan
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4M1, Canada
| | - M. Schick
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
| | - An-Chang Shi
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4M1, Canada
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Refugees can suffer many experiences that threaten their trust in others. Although models of refugee mental health have postulated that attachment securities may be damaged by refugee experiences, this has yet to be empirically tested. This study aimed to understand the relationship between the nature of traumatic experiences sustained by refugees and attachment styles. METHOD In a cross-sectional study, treatment-seeking refugees (N = 134) were assessed for traumatic exposure using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale. Attachment style was assessed using the Experiences in Close Relationship Scale. RESULTS Whereas gender and severity of interpersonal traumatic events predicted avoidant attachment style (accounting for 11% of the variance), neither these factors nor non-interpersonal trauma predicted anxious attachment. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to interpersonal traumatic events, including torture, is associated with enduring avoidant attachment tendencies in refugees. This finding accords with attachment theories that prior adverse interpersonal experiences can undermine secure attachment systems, and may promote avoidance of attachment seeking. This finding may point to an important process maintaining poor psychological health in refugees affected by interpersonal trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angela Nickerson
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard A Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Spiller TR, Schick M, Schnyder U, Bryant RA, Nickerson A, Morina N. Somatisation and anger are associated with symptom severity of posttraumatic stress disorder in severely traumatised refugees and asylum seekers. Swiss Med Wkly 2016; 146:w14311. [PMID: 27153515 DOI: 10.4414/smw.2016.14311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most research on refugee mental health has focused on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Besides PTSD, however, traumatised refugees are often burdened by comorbid somatic and psychiatric conditions, as well as postmigration living difficulties (PMLD). It is unclear how these conditions interfere with presentation and treatment of PTSD. METHODS This preliminary cross-sectional study investigated 134 severely traumatised refugees and asylum seekers in treatment in two psychiatric outpatient units in Switzerland. Trauma exposure, PMLD, somatisation and explosive anger were assessed and related to symptom severity of PTSD using correlation and regression analyses. RESULTS PTSD symptoms were significantly related to somatisation, anger, PMLD and trauma exposure. Regression analysis revealed that PTSD symptoms were mainly predicted by somatisation and anger. CONCLUSIONS Symptom severity of PTSD is associated with somatisation, explosive anger and, to a lesser extent, PMLD. Standard PTSD treatment may benefit from implementing targeted strategies to assess and address these factors in traumatised refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias R Spiller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthis Schick
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Schnyder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Naser Morina
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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Werner J, Umstatter C, Zehner N, Niederhauser J, Schick M. Validation of a sensor-based automatic measurement system for monitoring chewing activity in horses. Livest Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2015.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Schick M, Sexty R, Ditzen B, Wischmann D. Einstellungen zu Social Freezing unter sozio-kultureller Perspektive. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2016. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1571381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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