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Psychiatria Polska Apr 2024"Schizotypy" is a term describing personality traits reflected in emotional, perceptual and cognitive styles. Affective temperaments are trait-like features which were...
OBJECTIVES
"Schizotypy" is a term describing personality traits reflected in emotional, perceptual and cognitive styles. Affective temperaments are trait-like features which were observed to be stable in time and predispose to mood disorders. The purpose of this study was to examine relationship between schizotypal features, affective temperaments and anhedonia in patients with bipolar depression.
METHODS
54 patients with bipolar depression were included in the study. Participant were administered the following psychometric tools: Dimensional Anhedonia Rating Scale (DARS), Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS), Oxford-Liverpool Inventory of Feelings and Experiences (O-LIFE), Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A), and Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology - Self-Report (QIDS-SR). Correlations between the variables were calculated and linear regression models were built.
RESULTS
Only hyperthymia (affective temperament) and introvertive anhedonia (schizotypal domain) were statistically significantly correlated with anhedonia. In regression models, introvertive anhedonia predicted higher whereas hyperthymic features lower severity of anhedonia (measured by the SHAPS scale).
CONCLUSIONS
Hyperthymic features are protective and introvertive anhedonia is a risk factor for consummatory anhedonia.
PubMed: 38805600
DOI: 10.12740/PP/OnlineFirst/178345 -
Animal Cognition May 2024Potential metacognitive abilities, such as monitoring and controlling cognitive processes, have been revealed in some primate species. In the tubes task, apes and...
Potential metacognitive abilities, such as monitoring and controlling cognitive processes, have been revealed in some primate species. In the tubes task, apes and macaques showed higher content-checking behavior when unaware of a reward's location, but they also periodically inspected the tubes when aware, especially when a more appealing reward was involved. Some attribute this to the pleasure of looking at the reward. This study investigates whether the unnecessary tube-checking behavior observed in nine wild Japanese macaques, previously tested for metacognition using the tubes task, can be solely attributed to impulsivity. The macaques' propensity to look inside a single tube containing food they cannot immediately reach was measured and compared to their behavior in the tubes task. Results indicated that looking inside the baited tube increased as reward quality improved. However, macaques displaying unnecessary tube inspections in metacognitive tests showed less impulsivity to look. This intriguing result counters the notion that excessive looking in the tubes task is solely due to impulsive looking, prompting us to advocate for further research into the relationship between inhibition and metacognitive performance.
Topics: Animals; Impulsive Behavior; Metacognition; Male; Macaca fuscata; Reward; Female; Behavior, Animal
PubMed: 38805046
DOI: 10.1007/s10071-024-01879-1 -
Journal of Psychopharmacology (Oxford,... May 2024The recreational use of LSD, a synthetic psychedelic drug, has surged in recent years, coinciding with a renewed research focus on its potential psychotherapeutic...
BACKGROUND
The recreational use of LSD, a synthetic psychedelic drug, has surged in recent years, coinciding with a renewed research focus on its potential psychotherapeutic properties.
AIM
This study aims to describe the experiences and perceptions of individuals engaging in LSD use for the first time, derived from a large international sample.
METHODS
This study utilised 2018 Global Drug Survey data collected from 6 November 2017 to 10 January 2018. Participants who initiated LSD use in the preceding 12 months answered questions on their experiences, social settings, harm-reduction behaviours, and demographics. Descriptive statistics were employed, and characteristics of those seeking emergency medical treatment (EMT) and those not planning further LSD use were compared with other respondents.
RESULTS
Among 3340 respondents who used LSD in the past year, their first-time experiences generally exceeded expectations, with 97.7% expressing excitement. Adverse and unwanted side effects were rarely reported, and only 17 individuals needed EMT. Feelings of fear were reported by most (64.1%), but only very mildly and not enough to put them off from wanting to use LSD again.
DISCUSSION
Although the occurrence of unwanted side effects seems low and the LSD experience is generally pleasurable, vigilance amid the rising illicit use of LSD through harm-reduction education is still important in preventing possible risks.
PubMed: 38804544
DOI: 10.1177/02698811241254837 -
Molecular Brain May 2024Itch is a protective/defensive function with divalent motivational drives. Itch itself elicits an unpleasant experience, which triggers the urge to scratch, relieving...
Itch is a protective/defensive function with divalent motivational drives. Itch itself elicits an unpleasant experience, which triggers the urge to scratch, relieving the itchiness. Still, it can also result in dissatisfaction when the scratch is too intense and painful or unsatisfactory due to insufficient scratch effect. Therefore, it is likely that the balance between the unpleasantness/pleasure and satisfaction/unsatisfaction associated with itch sensation and scratching behavior is determined by complex brain mechanisms. The physiological/pathological mechanisms underlying this balance remain largely elusive. To address this issue, we targeted the "reward center" of the brain, the nucleus accumbens (NAc), in which itch-responsive neurons have been found in rodents. We examined how neurons in the NAc are activated or suppressed during histamine-induced scratching behaviors in mice. The mice received an intradermal injection of histamine or saline at the neck, and the scratching number was analyzed by recording the movement of the bilateral hind limbs for about 45 min after injection. To experimentally manipulate the scratch efficacy in these histamine models, we compared histamine's behavioral and neuronal effects between mice with intact and clipped nails on the hind paws. As expected, the clipping of the hind limb nail increased the number of scratches after the histamine injection. In the brains of mice exhibiting scratching behaviors, we analyzed the expression of the c-fos gene (Fos) as a readout of an immediate activation of neurons during itch/scratch and dopamine receptors (Drd1 and Drd2) using multiplex single-molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (RNAscope) in the NAc and surrounding structures. We performed a model-free analysis of gene expression in geometrically divided NAc subregions without assuming the conventional core-shell divisions. The results indicated that even within the NAc, multiple subregions responded differentially to various itch/scratch conditions. We also found different clusters with neurons showing similar or opposite changes in Fos expression and the correlation between scratch number and Fos expression in different itch/scratch conditions. These regional differences and clusters would provide a basis for the complex role of the NAc and surrounding structures in encoding the outcomes of scratching behavior and itchy sensations.
Topics: Animals; Pruritus; Nucleus Accumbens; Histamine; Male; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Behavior, Animal; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-fos; Neurons; Mice
PubMed: 38783364
DOI: 10.1186/s13041-024-01101-w -
Cureus Apr 2024This research investigates the effects of an electronic detox treatment on the utilization of social media and smartphones, addiction levels, and the general health of... (Review)
Review
This research investigates the effects of an electronic detox treatment on the utilization of social media and smartphones, addiction levels, and the general health of individuals. Remarkably, individuals discovered that the digital detox was less challenging than anticipated, with a significant number expressing sensations of pleasure and alleviation. Although a few individuals encountered instances of alienation and solitude, the majority managed to adapt to the limited availability of the internet. Notably, individuals saw heightened tedium and replaced their use of social networking sites with additional tasks using screens. After the procedure, measures demonstrated favorable or neutral enhancements in addictions and health-related results. The quantitative findings indicate an increased understanding of online conduct and the use of self-regulating strategies. Concrete recommendations put forward by respondents include reducing stringent deadlines, implementing personalized limitations, and devising tactics to regulate alerts and their use. These observations may be used to shape subsequent digital detox programs in order to improve their efficacy and increase participation from participants.
PubMed: 38779255
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58719 -
Archives of Sexual Behavior Jun 2024Bondage/discipline, Dominance/submission, and Sadism/Masochism (BDSM) have gained increased attention and discussion in recent years. This prevalence is accompanied by a... (Review)
Review
Bondage/discipline, Dominance/submission, and Sadism/Masochism (BDSM) have gained increased attention and discussion in recent years. This prevalence is accompanied by a shift in perceptions of BDSM, including the declassification of sadomasochism as a paraphilic disorder. Evolutionary psychology offers a unique perspective of why some individuals are interested in BDSM and why some prefer certain elements of BDSM over others (e.g., dominance versus submission). In this paper, we examine BDSM from an evolutionary standpoint, examining biopsychosocial factors that underlie the BDSM interests and practice. We articulate this perspective via an exploration of: proximate processes, such as the role of childhood experiences, sexual conditioning, and physiological factors; as well as ultimate explanations for power play and pain play dimensions of BDSM, highlighting the potential adaptive advantages of each. While BDSM may not be adaptive in itself, we examine the literature of sex differences in BDSM role preferences and argue that these preferences may stem from the extreme forms of behaviors which enhance reproductive success. In the realm of pain play, we explore the intersection of pain and pleasure from both physiological and psychological perspectives, highlighting the crucial role of psychological and play partner factors in modulating the experience of pain. Finally, we encourage future research in social sciences to utilize evolutionary frameworks to further explore the subject and help alleviate the mystification surrounding BDSM. This multifaceted exploration of BDSM provides valuable insights for clinicians, kink-identified individuals, and scholars seeking to understand the evolutionary perspectives of human sexual behavior and preferences.
Topics: Female; Humans; Male; Masochism; Paraphilic Disorders; Sadism; Sexual Behavior
PubMed: 38769280
DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02881-x -
BMC Health Services Research May 2024Several studies have been conducted with the 1.0 version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) in Norway and globally. The 2.0 version has not been...
BACKGROUND
Several studies have been conducted with the 1.0 version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) in Norway and globally. The 2.0 version has not been translated and tested in Norwegian hospital settings. This study aims to 1) assess the psychometrics of the Norwegian version (N-HSOPSC 2.0), and 2) assess the criterion validity of the N-HSOPSC 2.0, adding two more outcomes, namely 'pleasure of work' and 'turnover intention'.
METHODS
The HSOPSC 2.0 was translated using a sequential translation process. A convenience sample was used, inviting hospital staff from two hospitals (N = 1002) to participate in a cross-sectional questionnaire study. Data were analyzed using Mplus. The construct validity was tested with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Convergent validity was tested using Average Variance Explained (AVE), and internal consistency was tested with composite reliability (CR) and Cronbach's alpha. Criterion related validity was tested with multiple linear regression.
RESULTS
The overall statistical results using the N-HSOPSC 2.0 indicate that the model fit based on CFA was acceptable. Five of the N-HSOPSC 2.0 dimensions had AVE scores below the 0.5 criterium. The CR criterium was meet on all dimensions except Teamwork (0.61). However, Teamwork was one of the most important and significant predictors of the outcomes. Regression models explained most variance related to patient safety rating (adjusted R = 0.38), followed by 'turnover intention' (adjusted R = 0.22), 'pleasure at work' (adjusted R = 0.14), and lastly, 'number of reported events' (adjusted R0.06).
CONCLUSION
The N-HSOPSC 2.0 had acceptable construct validity and internal consistency when translated to Norwegian and tested among Norwegian staff in two hospitals. Hence, the instrument is appropriate for use in Norwegian hospital settings. The ten dimensions predicted most variance related to 'overall patient safety', and less related to 'number of reported events'. In addition, the safety culture dimensions predicted 'pleasure at work' and 'turnover intention', which is not part of the original instrument.
Topics: Norway; Psychometrics; Humans; Patient Safety; Cross-Sectional Studies; Surveys and Questionnaires; Organizational Culture; Female; Male; Reproducibility of Results; Adult; Safety Management; Middle Aged; Translations; Factor Analysis, Statistical
PubMed: 38762480
DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11097-7 -
Journal of Alzheimer's Disease : JAD 2024Unhealthy behavior increases the risk of dementia. Various socio-cognitive determinants influence whether individuals persist in or alter these unhealthy behaviors.
BACKGROUND
Unhealthy behavior increases the risk of dementia. Various socio-cognitive determinants influence whether individuals persist in or alter these unhealthy behaviors.
OBJECTIVE
This study identifies relevant determinants of behavior associated to dementia risk.
METHODS
4,104 Dutch individuals (40-79 years) completed a screening questionnaire exploring lifestyle behaviors associated with dementia risk. Subsequently, 3,065 respondents who engaged in one or more unhealthy behaviors completed a follow-up questionnaire investigating socio-cognitive determinants of these behaviors. Cross-tables were used to assess the accuracy of participants' perceptions regarding their behavior compared to recommendations. Confidence Interval-Based Estimation of Relevance (CIBER) was used to identify the most relevant determinants of behavior based on visual inspection and interpretation.
RESULTS
Among the respondents, 91.3% reported at least one, while 65% reported two or more unhealthy lifestyle behaviors associated to dementia risk. Many of them were not aware they did not adhere to lifestyle recommendations. The most relevant determinants identified include attitudes (i.e., lacking a passion for cooking and finding pleasure in drinking alcohol or smoking), misperceptions on social comparisons (i.e., overestimating healthy diet intake and underestimating alcohol intake), and low perceived behavioral control (i.e., regarding changing physical inactivity, altering diet patterns, and smoking cessation).
CONCLUSIONS
Individual-level interventions that encourage lifestyle change should focus on enhancing accurate perceptions of behaviors compared to recommendations, while strengthening perceived control towards behavior change. Given the high prevalence of dementia risk factors, combining interventions at both individual and environmental levels are likely to be the most effective strategy to reduce dementia on a population scale.
Topics: Humans; Dementia; Netherlands; Female; Male; Middle Aged; Aged; Life Style; Risk Reduction Behavior; Adult; Surveys and Questionnaires; Health Behavior; Cognition; Alcohol Drinking
PubMed: 38759007
DOI: 10.3233/JAD-231369 -
BMJ Open May 2024This study aimed to examine the mediation role of perceived social support in the relationship between functional limitations, depressive symptoms and quality of life...
Social support in maintaining mental health and quality of life among community-dwelling older people with functional limitations in Malaysia: a population-based cross-sectional study.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to examine the mediation role of perceived social support in the relationship between functional limitations, depressive symptoms and quality of life among older people in Malaysia.
SETTING
The Malaysian National Health Morbidity Survey 2018: Elderly Health was a cross-sectional health community survey among adults aged 50 and above.
PARTICIPANTS
3977 community-dwelling older Malaysians aged 60 and above.
OUTCOME MEASURES
Functional limitations were defined as personal activities of daily living (PADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), tested in separate paths in all analyses. PADL was measured using the Barthel Index, while IADL was measured using the Lawton and Brody scale. Perceived social support, depressive symptoms and quality of life were measured using the Duke Social Support Index, Geriatric Depression Scale-14 and Control, Autonomy, Self-Realisation and Pleasure-19 tools. We used mediation analysis through structural equation modelling to explore the role of perceived social support.
RESULTS
Perceived social support mediated the relationship between PADL and IADL with depressive symptoms, with the indirect effects at -0.079 and -0.103, respectively (p<0.001). Similarly, perceived social support mediated the relationship between PADL and IADL with quality of life, with the indirect effects at 0.238 and 0.301, respectively (p<0.001). We performed serial multiple mediation analysis and found that perceived social support and depressive symptoms mediated the path between PADL and IADL with quality of life, with the indirect effects at 0.598 and 0.747, respectively (p<0.001). The relationship between functional limitations and all outcomes remained significant in all mediation analyses.
CONCLUSION
The present study provides evidence that perceived social support relieves the influence of functional limitations on depressive symptoms and declining quality of life among older people. Therefore, it is imperative to establish a social support system to improve the overall well-being of older people.
Topics: Humans; Quality of Life; Malaysia; Social Support; Aged; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Male; Independent Living; Activities of Daily Living; Depression; Middle Aged; Mental Health; Aged, 80 and over; Geriatric Assessment
PubMed: 38754882
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077046 -
European Journal of Midwifery 2024Many elements of life can affect sexual health; thus, healthcare professionals require good knowledge of sexual medicine to encounter patients with these issues. We...
INTRODUCTION
Many elements of life can affect sexual health; thus, healthcare professionals require good knowledge of sexual medicine to encounter patients with these issues. We aimed to study final-year medical and midwifery students' self-reported knowledge of factors associated with sexuality and their knowledge of how to evaluate and treat/counsel patients with sexual problems. In addition, educational interests regarding sexual medicine were assessed.
METHODS
In a cross-sectional study, a web-based questionnaire was distributed to final-year medical (n=233) and midwifery (n=131) students graduating between December 2018 and May 2019 in Finland.
RESULTS
Both student groups self-reported insufficient knowledge of how to consider sexuality in mentally ill patients, how to encounter victims of domestic violence/sexual abuse, and how multiculturalism affects sexuality. In addition, compared to the midwifery students, the medical students were more likely to self-report insufficient knowledge of the basics of sexual pleasure and treating the lack of it (p<0.001), including how to treat sexual problems due to relationship problems (p<0.001) or chronic diseases (p=0.015). Although several educational areas of interest arose, both student groups had two mutual most desirable educational interests: 1) reasons for dyspareunia and its treatment, n=117/233 (50.2%) for medical students, and n=60/131 (45.8%) for midwifery students; and 2) lack of sexual desire and its treatment, n=100/233 (42.9%) for medical students, and n=55/131 (42.0%) for midwifery students.
CONCLUSIONS
In both student groups, the self-reported knowledge of sexual medicine was insufficient. Thus, more education on sexual medicine should be included in the curricula of medical and midwifery education.
PubMed: 38751863
DOI: 10.18332/ejm/186401