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Reliability and validity of the dynamic risk outcome scales-short version for clients with mild intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2024; 37:e13212. [PMID: 38382539 DOI: 10.1111/jar.13212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study investigated the reliability and validity of the dynamic risk outcome scales-short version (DROS-SV). This instrument is developed to monitor treatment progress using dynamic risk factors in clients with mild intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning and behavioural and/or mental health problems. METHOD Data were collected from 264 clients who received Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT), a form of intensive outpatient treatment. RESULTS A principal component analysis showed that there were six components explaining 73.9% of the variance. Furthermore, the DROS-SV showed good internal consistency of its subscales and total score (α > 0.78). Correlating the DROS-SV with the Historical and Clinical subscales of the Historical, Clinical and Future-30 indicated convergent and divergent validity. DISCUSSION The DROS-SV has good psychometric properties for measuring dynamic risk factors in clients with mild intellectual disabilities or borderline intellectual functioning in FACT teams.
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Does mixing inhaler devices lead to unchecked inhaler technique errors in patients with COPD? Findings from the cross-sectional observational MISMATCH study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2023; 10:e001821. [PMID: 38135462 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2023-001821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be prescribed multiple inhalers that require different techniques for optimal performance. Mixing devices has been associated with poorer COPD outcomes suggesting that it leads to inappropriate inhaler technique. However, empirical evidence is lacking. AIMS Compare the nature and frequency of dry powder inhaler (DPI) technique errors in patients with COPD using (1) a single DPI or (2) mixed-devices (a DPI and pressurised metered dose inhaler (pMDI)). METHODS Data from the PIFotal study-a cross-sectional study on Peak Inspiratory Flow in patients with COPD using a DPI as maintenance therapy, capturing data from 1434 patients on demographic characteristics, COPD health status and inhaler technique-were used to select 291 patients using mixed-devices. Frequency matching based on country of residence and DPI device type was used to select 291 patients using a DPI-only for comparison. Predetermined checklists were used for the evaluation of DPI video recordings and complemented with additional errors that were observed in ≥10%. Error proportions were calculated for the (1) individual and total number of errors, (2) number of critical errors and (3) number of pMDI-related errors. RESULTS The study sample contained 582 patients (mean (SD) age 69.6 (9.4) years, 47.1% female). DPI technique errors were common, but not significantly different between the groups. The majority of patients made at least one critical error (DPI-only: 90.7% vs mixed-devices: 92.8%). Proportions of total, 'pMDI-related' and critical errors did not significantly differ between the groups. CONCLUSION The nature and frequency of inhaler technique errors did not substantially differ between patients prescribed with a single DPI and mixed-devices. Currently, 'pMDI-related errors' in DPI use are not accounted for in existing checklists. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ENCEPP/EUPAS48776.
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Fetal Zika virus infection diagnosed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing of amniotic fluid. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 61:116-117. [PMID: 36102858 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
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iPSC: 2D CELL CULTURE OPTIMIZATION FOR LARGE-SCALE PRODUCTION OF INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS. Cytotherapy 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1465-3249(22)00392-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Management of lactating breast abscesses by ultrasound-guided needle aspiration and continuation of breastfeeding: A pilot study. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 51:102214. [PMID: 34469779 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Needle aspiration of breast abscesses during lactation are currently recommended as an alternative to surgery only for moderate forms. In case of breast abscess, many patients stop breastfeeding on the advice of a health professional. We reviewed our experience of treatment of lactating breast abscesses by ultrasound-guided aspiration and suggest an algorithm of their management. We also analyzed the continuation of breastfeeding of these patients after advices from trained teams. MATERIEL AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective study from April 2016 to April 2017, including 28 patients referred for a breast abscess during lactation at the Duroc Breast Imaging Center. A management by ultrasound-guided aspiration was proposed to each patient. We collected data about the breastfeeding between October 2018 and January 2019. RESULTS A single aspiration was sufficient in 64.3% of cases. The delay between the occurrence of the abscess and the indication for drainage was significantly higher for patients who have needed finally surgical drainage (p = 0,0031). There were no difference of size of abscesses between patients receiving needle aspiration alone and those who have undergone surgery (p = 0,97). All patients who had been managed by needle aspiration continued breastfeeding after the treatment and 40% of the patients were still breastfeeding at 6 months. CONCLUSION The management of lactating breast abscess by ultrasound-guided needle aspiration is an effective alternative to surgery. It appears to be effective regardless of the size of the abscess and is compatible with the continuation of breastfeeding. Our study has indeed shown that if they are well advised, the majority of patients continue breastfeeding so that it is essential that health professionals be better trained regarding the management of breastfeeding complications.
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Clinical ethics consultations in psychiatric compared to non-psychiatric medical settings: characteristics and outcomes. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01192. [PMID: 30775581 PMCID: PMC6360452 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the recent years clinical ethics consultations (CEC) received an increasing attention not only in patients with medical conditions but also in those with mental disorders. However, the systematic and empirical knowledge is still small. The aim of this observational study was to investigate whether CECs differ between psychiatric and medical hospital inpatients regarding ethical issues, goals, characteristics, processes, and outcomes. METHODS This is a retrospective and in parts prospective analysis of a semi-structured CEC approach provided by the CEC service at a large German general hospital between January 2006 and June 2015. RESULTS A total of 259 CECs in three inpatient settings were investigated, i.e. intensive care units (ICU, 43.6%), low care units (LCU, 33.6%), and psychiatric care units (PCU, 22.8%). In all groups, most ethical issues addressed treatment intensity (80.6%) and resulted in over 93% in participants' agreement on final ethical recommendations as well as in high implementation rates (>89%). However, we found significant group differences: In PCUs patients participated more often in the CEC (p < .001), the number of all participants was higher (p < .001), CECs were more time expensive (p < .001), and more recommendations focused on interventions against the patients' declared intention (37.7% versus 0%) than in the other groups. DISCUSSION In spite of different clinical characteristics and ethical issues between patients and settings, consensus and implementation of the CEC recommendation could be achieved at a high rate in all groups. There are substantial differences regarding goals, participation of patients, and processes. It is worth considering adapting the CEC to the special needs in psychiatric settings, especially under the aspect of the patients' perspective and involvement.
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Single-step expansion of adipose-derived stem cells with platelet lysate in Scinus bioreactor. Cytotherapy 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2018.02.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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[Electroconvulsive therapy to treat therapy-resistant vocalization in dementia]. DER NERVENARZT 2018; 89:342-344. [PMID: 28900695 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-017-0415-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
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Culture of adipose-derived stem cells using closed bioreactor technology. Cytotherapy 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2017.02.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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[Specialist Training in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy : Evaluation of the East Westphalia-Lippe Academy curriculum]. DER NERVENARZT 2016; 88:1259-1265. [PMID: 27550388 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-016-0201-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite of the undisputed impact of education quality on becoming a specialist in psychiatry and psychotherapist, systematic studies in this field do not exist in Germany, apart from the evaluation of practical education by the medical councils. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Akademie-OWL, an education union of psychiatric clinics in the East Westphalia region of Germany, has provided 12-item questionnaire-based routine evaluations of theoretical education seminars since 2009. Seminars are held by consultants of psychiatry and psychotherapy within six separate weeks over a period of four years. All lecturers receive feedback from the evaluation. The results of this ongoing evaluation are presented using a typical example and in an aggregated format as a time series on the basis of one global item. RESULTS The data show that (1) the full range of a five-point Likert scale is used by the candidates, (2) psychiatric competences of the lecturers are more positively evaluated than their didactic competences, (3) neither within the four-years period of psychiatric education nor between different generations of candidates are systematic changes of evaluation results observed, and (4) minor to moderate differences of evaluation were observed between the different thematic fields of psychiatry and psychotherapy. DISCUSSION These results indicate the need of more systematic education research on establishing valid and reliable specific instruments as well as the need of systematic training of didactic competences of teaching consultants.
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Traumaorientierte Psychotherapie. PSYCHOTHERAPEUT 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s00278-016-0129-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Microcarrier Culture of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in a Closed Bioreactor System For Cell Therapy. Cytotherapy 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2016.03.287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Cost-Efficient, Closed-System MSC Culture to Therapeutically Relevant Quantities. Cytotherapy 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2016.03.265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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[Trauma-focused psychotherapy: Technique, area of application, and treatment outcome]. DER NERVENARZT 2015; 86:1427-35; quiz 1436-7. [PMID: 26542157 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-015-4360-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic events may lead to trauma-related disorders such as the posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and constraints in quality of life. Meanwhile, there are different trauma-focused psychotherapies that aim to prevent PTSD shortly after experiencing a traumatic event and interventions that aim to treat PTSD. In Germany, cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic trauma-focused approaches are commonly applied. While cognitive-behavioral programs aim at early exposure with the traumatic event, psychodynamic approaches emphasize the need of a period of stabilization before undergoing exposure. With regard to empirical evidence, cognitive-behavioral programs were able to prove their efficacy most often and are recommended in national and international guidelines. The German S3 guideline PTSD is currently under revision.
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EPA-1062 – Acceptance and suppression of negative and positive emotions in patients with depressive disorders. Eur Psychiatry 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-9338(14)78346-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Poster session Wednesday 11 December all day display: 11/12/2013, 09:30-16:00 * Location: Poster area. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jet202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Alltagsnahes kognitives Training in der virtuellen Realität: Pilotstudien zu einem Trainingsprogramm für Patienten mit Depression. KLIN NEUROPHYSIOL 2013. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1337261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Effects of cortisol on memory in women with borderline personality disorder: role of co-morbid post-traumatic stress disorder and major depression. Psychol Med 2013; 43:495-505. [PMID: 23171911 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291712001961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress and cortisol administration are known to have impairing effects on memory retrieval in healthy humans. These effects are reported to be altered in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but they have not yet been investigated in borderline personality disorder (BPD). METHOD In a placebo-controlled cross-over study, 71 women with BPD and 40 healthy controls received either placebo or 10 mg of hydrocortisone orally before undertaking a declarative memory retrieval task (word list learning) and an autobiographical memory test (AMT). A working memory test was also applied. RESULTS Overall, opposing effects of cortisol on memory were observed when comparing patients with controls. In controls, cortisol had impairing effects on memory retrieval whereas in BPD patients cortisol had enhancing effects on memory retrieval of words, autobiographical memory and working memory. These effects were most pronounced for specificity of autobiographical memory retrieval. Patients with BPD alone and those with co-morbid PTSD showed this effect. We also found that co-morbid MDD influenced the cortisol effects: in this subgroup (BPD + MDD) the effects of cortisol on memory were absent. CONCLUSIONS The present results demonstrate beneficial effects of acute cortisol elevations on hippocampal-mediated memory processes in BPD. The absence of these effects in patients with co-morbid MDD suggests that these patients differ from other BPD patients in terms of their sensitivity to glucocorticoids (GCs).
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Naturalistic pharmacotherapy of acute episodes of schizophrenic disorders in comparison to treatment guidelines. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2012; 45:189-95. [PMID: 22456956 DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1301286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study was designed to investigate to what extent guidelines regarding the pharmacological treatment of patients suffering from schizophrenia-like psychosis are adopted in a naturalistic treatment setting. METHODS Medical records of n=819 patients undergoing inpatient treatment for schizophrenia-like psychosis in 11 psychiatric hospitals in northwestern Germany were retrospectively analyzed and findings were compared to current schizophrenia guideline recommendations. RESULTS The prescription rate of second generation antipsychotics increased from 47.1% on admission to 62.5% at discharge. Only half the patients (52.3%) received antipsychotic monotherapy while 47.7% took between 2 and 4 antipsychotic substances at a time. Dosage increases occurred most frequently (in 60%) within the first week of inpatient treatment, 16.6% experienced an elevation between days 15 and 29. A change within the atypical medication was found in 19.3%. Clozapine prescriptions increased throughout the treatment but were combined with other antipsychotic substances in the majority of cases. CONCLUSION Under naturalistic conditions guideline recommendations for treatment of schizophrenia-like psychosis are adhered to only partially. Combination therapy with 2 or more antipsychotic drugs is quite common despite a clear recommendation for monotherapy.
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Abstract
Nursing is associated with high levels of emotional strain and heavy workloads. Changing working conditions raise the importance of investigating job satisfaction, stress and burnout and its consequences for nurses. The aim of the study was to investigate whether work-related behaviour and experience patterns are associated with mental and physical health status in nurses. A sample of 356 nurses in four German hospitals were interviewed using questionnaires regarding work-related behaviour and experience patterns, work stress, depression, anxiety and physical symptoms ('Work-related Behaviour and Experience Pattern'--AVEM and ERI). The main result of this study is that unhealthy work-related behaviour and experience patterns (i.e. the excessive ambitious type and the resigned type) are associated with reduced mental and physical health. Preventive, as well as intervention, strategies are needed that focus both on the individual as well as on working conditions.
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Autobiographisches Gedächtnis und Dysregulation der Hypothalamus-Hypophysen-Nebennierenrinden-Achse bei der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2011. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1272452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Interferenzkontrolle bei Borderline Persönlichkeitsstörung: Der individuelle emotionale Stroop-Test im fMRT - Neuropsychologie der BPD: Experimentelle Befunde und klinische Bedeutung. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2011. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1272425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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[Adherence and cognitive performance in schizophrenia]. FORTSCHRITTE DER NEUROLOGIE-PSYCHIATRIE 2010; 79:73-82. [PMID: 21108162 DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1245622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is known that many patients with schizophrenia show non-adherence with regard to antipsychotic medication. Furthermore, many studies indicate cognitive deficits in schizophrenic patients. In this review, we compare the results of studies examining the relationship of non-adherence and cognitive performance. METHOD Based on a systematic literature review, the impact of cognitive performance on the adherence behaviour of patients with schizophrenia was examined. RESULTS We found 18 studies analysing the impact of cognitive performance on adherence behaviour. Most studies indicated that patients with stronger cognitive impairments show lower adherence behaviour. Possible causal mechanisms are discussed.
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Abstract
Organische Ursachen akuter psychiatrischer Syndrome stellen die wichtigste Differenzialdiagnose bei psychiatrischen Akutaufnahmen, im Konsiliardienst und ambulanten Notdienst dar. Gerade mit der wachsenden Gruppe älterer Patienten treten Delirien, oft multifaktoriell ausgelöst, sehr häufig auf. Trotz ihrer ungünstigen Prognose bleiben sie allerdings zu oft unerkannt und unbehandelt. Medikamentöse, akutneurologische, infektiöse, metabolische und andere somatische Ursachen müssen differenzialdiagnostisch fundiert durch Anamnese, körperlichen Befund, Labor und Bildgebung ausgeschlossen werden. Erstmanifestationen wie auch psychiatrische Begleitsymptome stellen oft eine differenzialdiagnostische Herausforderung dar, auch in der teilweise allerdings nicht sicher möglichen Abgrenzung von reaktiven psychischen Störungen. Bestätigt sich eine organische Ursache, ist die Therapie primär ursachenorientiert und erst in einem zweiten Schritt symptomatisch mit antipsychotischer, antidepressiver oder sedierender Medikation. Einer iatrogenen Verursachung von Delirien sowie deren Prävention gilt ein besonderes Augenmerk, um die medizinische Qualität gerade für Ältere zu verbessern.
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Der Arbeitsaufwand professioneller Pflege in der stationären Gerontopsychiatrie – Vergleichende Ressourcenbemessung nach der Logik von Psychiatriepersonalverordnung (PsychPV) und Pflegeversicherung. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2010; 72:233-9. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1215566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although coercive measures are one of the indicators for the quality of psychiatric in-patient care, reliable and valid data comparing the practices are hardly available. The purpose of this study was to analyse the incidence and duration of mechanical restraint and seclusion in psychiatric hospitals in Germany. We hypothesised that the duration of these coercive measures is associated not only with gender and diagnosis of the patients, but also with the clinics themselves. METHODS Incidence and duration of coercive measures (mechanical restraint and seclusion) among patients in the year 2004 were analysed in six German psychiatric hospitals. Furthermore, the association of the length of these coercive measures with diagnosis, gender, and hospital was analysed using non-parametric statistical tests. RESULTS 3.0% of 10,352 cases treated in 2004 were exposed to mechanical restraint and seclusion with a range from 1.9-7.4% on comparing the hospitals. On average, these measures were applied 3.7 times per patient (case) with each single intervention lasting 5.0 h (mean, range <0.1-290.8). The incidence and duration of coercive measures varied highly between different diagnostic groups and different hospitals. The length of these measures differed significantly between hospitals (p<0.001) and diagnoses (p<0.001). In patients with organic psychiatric disorders (ICD-10: F0) we observed the longest duration. Furthermore the duration of coercive measures in female patients was shorter than that for male patients (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Data interpretation should consider numerous confounding factors such as case mix and hospital characteristics. The handling of coercive measures is an important quality feature. Therefore standardised survey methods should be developed and nationwide implemented.
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Functional correlates of distractor suppression during spatial working memory encoding. Neuroscience 2010; 165:1244-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2009] [Revised: 10/05/2009] [Accepted: 11/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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[Psychiatric psychotherapeutic psychosomatic treatment by the hospital: framework for the development of a multi-sector budget for regional mandatory care]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2009; 36:246-249. [PMID: 19582663 DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1233425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
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Effort-reward imbalance and burnout among German nurses in medical compared with psychiatric hospital settings. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2009; 16:225-33. [PMID: 19291150 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2850.2008.01355.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether nurses' efforts and rewards, as well as the effort-reward imbalance (ERI) and burnout, differ between subjects working in psychiatric vs. medical hospitals and between nurses under education and examined nurses respectively. Furthermore, the relationship between ERI and burnout was evaluated. Nursing is associated with high levels of emotional strain and heavy workloads. Burnout and a negative ERI can result in high absenteeism and turnover and have been identified as reasons why nurses leave their profession. In the last decade, working conditions of the nursing profession have changed in Germany, but somatic and psychiatric hospitals developed in different ways. This development may lead to different profiles. A sample of 389 nurses (78.8% female) in four German hospitals was investigated. A total of 147 nurses worked in psychiatric hospitals and 236 nurses worked in medical (somatic) hospitals. Fifty participants were still under education. The Effort-Reward Imbalance Inventory measures effort, reward and overcommitment at job and provides an imbalance score between effort and reward. The Maslach Burnout Inventory with the subscales, emotional exhaustion, lack of accomplishment and depersonalization, was also used. Nurses working in medical hospitals reported more burnout and had higher ERI scores. Subjects under education were comparable to examined nurses in terms of burnout but had lower ERI scores. Multiple regression analyses showed all ERI scales to be significant predictors for emotional exhaustion, while age, field of work and educational status further predict effort or ERI respectively. At present, the working situation of nurses in different settings appears to be characterized by a perceived imbalance of effort and reward and is associated with a high risk of developing burnout symptoms.
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One-year functional magnetic resonance imaging follow-up study of neural activation during the recall of unresolved negative life events in borderline personality disorder. Psychol Med 2009; 39:507-516. [PMID: 18466663 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291708003358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recall of adverse life events under brain imaging conditions has been shown to coincide with activation of limbic and prefrontal brain areas in borderline personality disorder (BPD). We investigate changes of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) activation patterns during the recall of unresolved adverse life events (ULE) over 1 year. METHOD Thirteen female BPD patients participated in the study. During fMRI measurement subjects recalled ULE and negative but resolved life events (RLE) after individual cue words to stimulate autobiographical memory retrieval. Subjective intensity of emotional and sensoric experiences during recall was assessed as well as standardized measures of psychopathology. RESULTS A 2x2 factorial analysis of fMRI data (Deltat1/t2xDeltaULE/RLE) revealed major right more than left differences of activation (i.e. t1>t2) of the posterior more than anterior cingulate, superior temporal lobes, insula, and right middle and superior frontal lobes (second-level analysis, t=3.0, puncorrected=0.003). The opposite contrast (Deltat2/t1xDeltaULE/RLE) did not reveal any differences. We did not find changes of emotional or sensoric qualities during recall (ULE versus RLE) or of psychopathology measures over the 1-year period. CONCLUSIONS Although subjective and clinical data did not change within 1 year, we observed a substantial decrease of temporo-frontal activation during the recall of ULE from t1 to t2. If future research confirms these findings, the question arises whether the decrease of neural activation precedes clinical improvement in BPD.
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Abstract
The pharmacokinetic parameters of amoxicillin were determined in 32 newborn infants aged 10 to 52 days (mean postnatal age, 24.7 +/- 12.4 days) to improve amoxicillin dosing in this age group. Amoxicillin plasma concentrations were determined using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography in surplus plasma samples from routine gentamicin assays. Amoxicillin pharmacokinetic parameters (mean +/- SD) were as follows: first-order elimination constant (K(el)) = 0.27 +/- 0.10 h(-1), volume of distribution corrected for body weight (V/W) = 0.66 +/- 0.27 L/kg, total body clearance corrected for body weight (CL/W) = 0.18 +/- 0.10 Lkg(-1)h(-1), and elimination half-life (t(1/2)) = 3.0 +/- 1.3 hours. Amoxicillin body clearance was approximately twofold greater in our patients compared with published values in younger neonates (mean postnatal age, 0.76 +/- 1.57 days). Simulation studies using the observed amoxicillin pharmacokinetic data suggest an amoxicillin dose of 40 mg/kg administered every 8 hours in infants older than 9 days postnatal age, independent of gestational age and postconceptional age, to achieve satisfactory target plasma amoxicillin concentrations less than 140 mg/L and time above minimum inhibitory concentration of at least 40%. Prospective evaluation of this suggested new dosage regimen is necessary before implementation in the care of ill neonates.
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Abstract
This study investigated the aggressive behaviour of all mentally ill patients within a whole psychiatric hospital with a catchment area of 325 000 inhabitants over a 1-year period (i) to assess the 1-year prevalence and characteristics of aggressive episodes and index inpatients, and (ii) to identify predictors of patients at risk by a multivariate approach. Staff Observation of Aggression Scale was used to assess aggressive behaviour. Characteristics of index inpatients were compared with those of non-index inpatients. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify risk factors. A total of 171 out of 2210 admitted patients (7.7%) exhibited 441 aggressive incidents (1.7 incidents per bed per year). Logistic regression analyses revealed as major risk factors of aggression: diagnoses (organic brain syndromes OR = 3.6, schizophrenia OR = 2.9), poor psychosocial living conditions (OR = 2.2), and critical behaviour leading to involuntary admission (OR = 3.3). Predictors of aggressive behaviour can be useful to identify inpatients at risk. Nevertheless, additional situational determinants have to be recognized. Training for professionals should include preventive and de-escalating strategies to reduce the incidence of aggressive behaviour in psychiatric hospitals. The application of de-escalating interventions prior to admission might be effective in preventing aggressive behaviour during inpatient treatment especially for patients with severe mental disorders.
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Prävalenz psychischer Störungen, Psychopathologie und Behandlungsbedarf bei weiblichen und männlichen Gefangenen. DER NERVENARZT 2006; 77:830-41. [PMID: 16823594 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-005-1946-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the international literature documents a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders in prisoners, German studies in this field are rare. The base of knowledge is even worse with regard to female prisoners. The purpose of this study was to investigate DSM-IV axis I and II psychiatric disorders and current psychopathology and to estimate treatment needs in prisoners. SAMPLE AND METHODS On the 1st of May 2002, all female prisoners in Brackwede I Prison in Bielefeld, Germany, were included; and a sample of incarcerated men was matched according to age, nationality, and length of stay. Sixty-three women and 76 men participated. Criminal history and current living conditions were investigated using a questionnaire and prison documents. Psychopathology and psychiatric disorders were investigated using structured clinical interviews. RESULTS In 88.2% of the sample, at least one current axis I (83.5%) and/or axis II personality disorder (53.2%) was found. Comorbidity rates were high, with 3.5+/-2.7 diagnoses per case. Mean SCL scores revealed a substantial psychopathologic burden. In female prisoners, opiate-related and polysubstance use disorders and affective and post-traumatic stress disorders were more frequent than in the male subsample, which in turn showed higher rates of alcohol-related disorders. Specific treatment needs were indicated in 83.4% of the sample. CONCLUSION These results indicate that the proportion of mentally ill persons in prisons is substantially higher than in specialized hospitals for mentally ill criminals. More treatment options are urgently needed than has been realized up to now.
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Abstract
Abstract. Whereas learning in every day life requires the inhibition of irrelevant information, standardized memory tests usually do not contain interfering stimuli. The present study aims at an initial evaluation of a new verbal learning paradigm that considers learning with emotionally neutral or negative interference, and learning without interference. In three learning trials, 82 healthy subjects learned three 15-item word lists derived from the Auditory Verbal Learning Test. Word recall in both conditions with interference was decreased, especially in the first learning trial and regardless of emotional valence. Working memory, therefore, might be more affected by interference than learning. These first promising results indicate the usability of the new verbal paradigm for clinical purposes.
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Galantamine: a cholinergic patch in the treatment of alcoholism: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2006; 184:115-21. [PMID: 16328375 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-005-0243-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2005] [Accepted: 10/14/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The involvement of the central cholinergic system in alcohol abuse behavior is well known. It is possible that the reinforcing effects of ethanol are partially mediated by nicotinic receptors, which modulate neurotransmitter release. It was demonstrated that the application of a cholinesterase inhibitor reduces alcohol consumption in alcohol-preferring rats. This suggests that galantamine (GAL), a cholinesterase inhibitor, could be effective when seeking to prolong abstinence in recently detoxified alcoholics. This study represents the first reported clinical trial of a cholinergic drug in alcohol-relapse prevention. PATIENTS AND METHODS We investigated the efficacy and safety of GAL by conducting a 24-week randomized, placebo-controlled, multicentric clinical trial on 149 recently detoxified alcoholics. Survival analyses (Kaplan-Meier) were performed to reveal evidence of prolonged abstinence periods in patients who received GAL. RESULTS Our findings did not support our hypothesis. GAL did not extend the time to first severe relapse. However, additional post hoc analyses suggest that relapsed patients treated with GAL consume less ethanol per drinking day than patients treated with placebo. CONCLUSIONS GAL seems to be ineffective when used in relapse prevention of detoxified alcoholics. It is possible that alcohol needs to be "on board" for GAL to be beneficial. This could explain why our post hoc analysis showed that GAL possibly reduces the alcohol consumption of relapsers. If confirmed, GAL could play a role in the reduction of harmful alcohol use and at-risk consumption.
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Cannabinoid-Screening während des stationären Drogenentzugs - Bewertung und klinische Bedeutung. SUCHTTHERAPIE 2004. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-813762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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[Hyponatraemic delirium as an early symptom of small-cell bronchial carcinoma]. DER NERVENARZT 2003; 74:1016-9. [PMID: 14598040 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-003-1598-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In the psychiatric clinic, delirious states are rare as the first symptoms of paraneoplastic syndrome, and the aetiology can only be clarified by consequent differential diagnostic efforts. We report the case of a 49-year-old man who was admitted to our psychiatric unit with delirium. Laboratory investigations showed hyponatraemia, serum hypo-osmolality, and urine hyperosmolality characterising the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIADH). As a paraneoplastic syndrome, SIADH is most frequently associated with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). Whereas chest X-ray was negative, chest CT scan and bronchoscopy including histology revealed a SCLC at an early stage of limited disease. Early oncological therapy made it possible for our patient to return to work with a satisfactory quality of life. Twenty-one months after first admission, he died as a result of recurrent SCLC metastases.
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Neuroradiologische und elektrophysiologische Funktionsdiagnostik in der Beurteilung akuter kortikaler Blindheit. KLIN NEUROPHYSIOL 2003. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-816420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Motivational intervention: an individual counselling vs a group treatment approach for alcohol-dependent in-patients. Alcohol Alcohol 2003; 38:263-9. [PMID: 12711662 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agg063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The present study aimed to evaluate whether individual counselling for alcohol-dependent patients in three sessions is as effective as a 2-week group treatment programme as part of an in-patient stay in a psychiatric hospital which was to foster motivation to seek further help and to strengthen the motivation to stay sober. Of particular importance was the external validity of the results, i.e. a 'normal' intake load of in-patients in detoxification and a wide variety of motivation to stop drinking were to be investigated. METHODS Subjects eligible for the study were all patients with alcohol problems admitted to a psychiatric hospital, but without psychosis, as the main diagnosis, and with a maximum of 10 detoxification treatments in the past. A randomized-controlled trial was conducted with 161 alcohol-dependent in-patients who received three individual counselling sessions on their ward in addition to detoxification treatment and 161 in-patients who received 2 weeks of in-patient treatment and four out-patient group sessions in addition to detoxification. Both interventions followed the principles and strategies of motivational interviewing. RESULTS Six months after intervention, group-treatment patients showed a higher rate of participation in self-help groups; however, this difference had disappeared 12 months after treatment. The abstinence rate among the former patients did not differ between the two intervention groups. CONCLUSION Group treatment may lead to a higher rate of participation in self-help groups, but does not increase the abstinence rate 6 months after treatment.
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Abstract
AIMS to investigate a possible association of cortisol stress response during early abstention with relapse. METHODS Thirty-six alcohol-dependent males, half of them with a comorbid anxiety disorder, and 15 healthy controls were exposed to a standardized psychosocial stress test. Thirty-one of the patients were assessed for relapse 6 weeks after discharge. RESULTS The relapsers showed almost no cortisol responses in the stress test. Comorbid anxiety disorder influenced neither stress response nor relapse. CONCLUSIONS During early abstention from alcohol, reduced stress-responsivity of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis seems to be connected to early relapse.
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[Is the borderline personality disorder a complex post-traumatic stress disorder? - The state of research]. DER NERVENARZT 2002; 73:820-9. [PMID: 12215872 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-002-1296-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Regarding the high prevalence of traumatic experiences in patients with borderline personality disorders (BPD), we review the available literature focussing on the hypothesis that BPD is a subtype of trauma associated disorders. The criteria of BPD, of complex post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), and of disorders of extreme stress not otherwise specified (DESNOS) substantially overlap. Research of the long-term course of BPD and PTSD, trauma research, and research of vulnerability in both disorders yielded converging results. Neuropsychological deficits in BPD and PTSD as well as psychoendocrinological and neuroimaging studies in BPD und PTSD also revealed common features. A pathogenetic specificity of individual etiologic factors does not appear to exist, however the assumption of a diathesis-stress model with traumatisation as a necessary but etiologically insufficient condition seems justified. Further research will have to prove BPD as a complex and early-onset post-traumatic stress disorder after multiple and/or chronic (type II) traumatic experiences during childhood and/or youth. Definitive conclusions require further research efforts.
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[Therapeutic goals in psychological medicine--state of research and development of a standardized self-rating instrument]. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2001; 51:239-45. [PMID: 11447657 DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-14300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
From the patient's as well as from the therapist's point of view goals of therapy undoubtedly play an important role in all fields of psychological medicine (psychiatry, psychotherapy, psychosomatic medicine). On the other hand, there is a substantial lack of systematic i.e. empirical studies on this issue. Giving an overview on the available scientific literature we start by characterising therapeutic goals as a secondary psychological construction. Therapeutic goals and their multiple associations and different aspects of psychotherapy are discussed. However, a variety of definitions of therapeutic goals, often influenced by the therapeutic orientation of the authors, make it difficult to integrate concepts and to compare findings. Hence, we focus on those results which were found in relation to general concepts, i.e. beyond specific theoretical approaches. Furthermore, we discuss the pros and cons of individual measures of therapeutic goals compared with standardised self-rating instruments. Finally, we underline the lack of studies on therapeutic goals in the psychiatric sphere and report on some results of our own pilot study on the Personal Goals Questionnaire in psychiatric inpatients.
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The course of anxiety, depression and drinking behaviours after completed detoxification in alcoholics with and without comorbid anxiety and depressive disorders. Alcohol Alcohol 2001; 36:249-55. [PMID: 11373263 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/36.3.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the associations between comorbid anxiety and depressive disorders in treated alcoholics, the course of current anxiety and depression during the early and late post-detoxification periods, and drinking behaviours after discharge. Lifetime psychiatric comorbidity was assessed in 100 alcoholics using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). Three subgroups defined as group DA (comorbid depressive and anxiety disorders, n = 15), group A (anxiety disorder only, n = 23), and group NO (no comorbid disorder, n = 62) were studied. Beginning 21 +/- 13 days after cessation of drinking, state anxiety (STAI-X1), trait anxiety (STAI-X2) and depression (BDI) were assessed once per week (t1 to t4) and once more 6 months after discharge (t5, n = 68). The severity of psychopathology decreased during the first 4 weeks after detoxification in all subgroups. However, trait anxiety remained at higher levels in both the comorbid subgroups from t1 to t4. In the follow-up sample, 60.5% of the non-comorbid subjects remained abstinent, but only 26.7% of all comorbid patients and only 12.5% of those with comorbid depressive disorder plus severe current trait anxiety or depression at t1. Independent of their comorbidity status, relapsers at t5 had already reported more trait anxiety than abstainers at t1. We conclude that severe trait anxiety persisting after 3 weeks of abstinence, comorbid depressive and/or anxiety disorders, and combinations of these with moderate or severe current anxiety and depressive states represent the greatest risks of relapse and therefore may indicate a treatment need.
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Comorbid anxiety and affective disorder in alcohol-dependent patients seeking treatment: the first Multicentre Study in Germany. Alcohol Alcohol 2001; 36:219-23. [PMID: 11373258 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/36.3.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The goals of this study were to describe demographic variables, drinking history, and the 6-month prevalence of Axis I comorbidity among alcohol-dependent subjects in GERMANY: The variables: amount of alcohol consumption, age at onset of the first alcohol consumed, age at onset of daily alcohol consumption, age at onset of withdrawal symptoms and number of detoxifications were related to the different comorbid disorders and gender. In this study, 556 patients from 25 alcohol treatment centres were enrolled between 1 January 1999 and 30 April 1999. After a minimum of 10 days of sobriety patients who fulfilled ICD-10 and DSM-IV criteria of alcohol dependence were interviewed for data collection using the Mini-DIPS (German version of the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule) and a standardized psychosocial interview. The 6-month prevalence of comorbid Axis I disorders was 53.1%. Among the patients with comorbidity, affective and anxiety disorders were most frequent. Comorbid stress disorder was associated with an early start of drinking, an early beginning of withdrawal symptoms, highest number of detoxifications, and the highest amount of alcohol consumed. Female patients with anxiety disorder consumed more alcohol and started earlier than females without this comorbid disorder. The data do not answer the question of the pathogenesis of comorbid disorders and alcoholism, but indicate that stress disorders in alcoholic patients and anxiety disorders in female alcoholics influence the course and severity of alcoholism.
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Abstract
Age has been considered to contribute to the severity of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). To evaluate the relationship between age and the severity of the AWS, we examined 723 alcoholics [518 males, 205 females, mean age (+/- SD): 42.8 +/- 10.5 years, mean duration of alcohol dependence: 11.0 +/- 8.0 years] consecutively referred to a unit for detoxification of alcoholics in a general hospital. The severity of the AWS was assessed by the AWS scale of Wetterling et al. (1997; Alcohol and Alcoholism 32, 753-760). The history of alcohol abuse as well as drinking behaviour in the last 6 months was assessed by a semi-structured interview. There were 41 alcoholics aged > or =60 years; they were compared with younger patients. The average severity of AWS did not differ between age groups. Daily alcohol intake and frequency of drinking were higher in younger alcoholics, but even when adjustment was made for this, severity of AWS was equal in both age groups. A relationship between severity of AWS and age was not detected.
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Magnetic resonance imaging volumes of the hippocampus and the amygdala in women with borderline personality disorder and early traumatization. ARCHIVES OF GENERAL PSYCHIATRY 2000; 57:1115-22. [PMID: 11115325 DOI: 10.1001/archpsyc.57.12.1115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 341] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Based on findings of stress-induced neural disturbances in animals and smaller hippocampal volumes in humans with posttraumatic stress disorder), we hypothesized that patients with borderline personality disorders (BPD), who often are victims of early traumatization, have smaller volumes of the hippocampus and the amygdala. We assumed that volumes of these brain regions are negatively correlated with traumatic experiences and with neuropsychological deficits. METHODS We studied 21 female patients with BPD and a similar group of healthy controls. We performed clinical assessments, a modified version of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and magnetic resonance imaging volumetric measurements of the hippocampus, amygdala, temporal lobes, and prosencephalon. Neuropsychological testing included scales on which disturbances in BPD were previously reported. RESULTS The patients with BPD had nearly 16% smaller volumes of the hippocampus (P<.001) and 8% smaller volumes of the amygdala (P<.05) than the healthy controls. The results for both hemispheres were nearly identical and were controlled for the volume of the prosencephalon and for head tilts. The volumes of the hippocampus were negatively correlated with the extent and the duration of self-reported early traumatization only when BPD and control subjects were considered together. Levels of neuropsychological functioning were associated with the severity of depression but not with the volumes of the hippocampus. CONCLUSION In female patients with BPD, we found reduction of the volumes of the hippocampus (and perhaps of the amygdala), but the association of volume reduction and traumatic experiences remains unclear. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2000;57:1115-1122.
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