Search

Background Hemodialysis (HD) patients are at a high risk of falls and fractures. The amount of physical activity (PA) they perform may be limited by psychosomatic factors associated with fear of falling, leading to frailty progression. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between fear of falling and PA in patients undergoing HD. Methods This cross-sectional study included 46 HD patients. Fear of falling was evaluated using the Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES). A 3-axis accelerometer was used to measure PA, including number of steps; 1 to 1.9 METs = static PA, 2 to 2.9 = light PA, and 3 or more = moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA). We examined correlation of MFES with each type of PA. Factors affecting fear of falling were determined using multiple regression analysis. Results The median MFES was 9.2 (7.4, 10.0). MFES was associated with the number of steps (r = 0.608, p 0.001), light PA (r = 0.421, p = 0.004), and MVPA (r = 0.546, p 0.001). Eighteen participants (39.1%) experienced at least one fall in a year and had lower MFES than the non-fall group (fall group: 7.4 [5.1, 9.0] vs. non-fall group: 9.7 [8.5, 10.0], p 0.001). Multiple regression analysis showed that MFES was independently associated with the number of steps (B = 279.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 90.5–469.0, p = 0.005) and MVPA (B = 3.52, 95% CI = 1.14–5.90, p = 0.005), respectively. Conclusions Fear of falling was associated with amount of PA among patients undergoing HD. Interventions that target the fear of falling may be effective in reducing HD patients’ fall risk by enhancing PA.

There will be a great shortage of 4.3 million Doctors in 2030 in world level stated by WHO, their shortage in remote areas is an immense challenge. This review examines the evidence base of factors and preferences influencing medical students towards rural placements as they are the future workforce. The study adopted the PRISMA protocol. The factors reasoned for their aversion were formed into the framework of Alderfer’s ERG needs and classified based on positively and negatively perceived. Poor living conditions and social isolation is the major cause for the aversion of rural placements. But the proximity of the village and less competition were positively perceived in terms of existential needs. Family relationship, administrative hurdles and communication with rural people were perceived negatively perceived relationship needs, except availability of more support staff. The growth needs such as serving for poor, social status, Knowledge on rural diseases in an altruistic way, but only by rural background/rural upbringing students, Yet the urban origin students have a strong dislike for the reasons of professional stagnation, fewer career advancements, insufficient learning, and research opportunities in rural placements.

Our study was devoted to identifying and clarifying the relationship between psychosomatic and conflict-generating personality factors. The optimal ratio of the structural components of a personality and the maintained hierarchical subordination of levels ensures the preservation of basic intrapsychic connections, fortitude and stability of the psyche at a current stage of development (the structural aspect of health). At the same time, the interactions of these components and the coherence of the main mental processes determine the unique nature of an individual's holistic and unique personality (the dynamic or procedural aspect of health). By determining the characteristics for impacting conflict-generating factors in terms of forming a specialist’s personality and maintaining the optimal functioning, we found that somatic pathology had different intensity and the links the psyche-somatic problems are various: some correlations increased, others faded. Thus, a restructuring took place during the disease; changes appeared in the information and energy components of the state. We proved that conflict-generating factors are a prerequisite for an occurrence of somatic diseases. Changes occurred in the states were interpreted as an influence of conflict-generating factors. It was found that the most important factor influencing psychosomatic disorders was a social stress: problematic relationships in the professional sphere, including insufficient professional fulfilment (non-professional work, forced labour, unemployment, etc.), interpersonal conflicts with the leader or the team and related domestic problems. The second most important cause of these symptoms was emotional discomfort in the family and a family stress: unfavourable relationships with loved ones, difficult financial situation, lack of reliable support, and so on. So, the main guidelines in the life of psychosomatically healthy people are orderly life, not limited by the space of the existing environment and interpersonal relationships.

COVID 19 pandemic and lockdown as a measure to contain it has a severe psychological impact on children affecting their social, behavioral, emotional and somatic aspects. This study was undertaken in the cities of Raipur and Kolkata from 15th April to 31st May on urban school going children aged 5-15 years. A questionnaire comprising of four categories with 5 questions each of social, behavioral, emotional and somatic response was handed over to be answered. Each YES answer scored one point. The total points scored were compared between each category. Comments about corona virus and lockdown were also noted. Pain was inflicted by inflating BP cuff and holding till pain was perceived which was plotted on VAS scale. Significant impact on emotional and behavioral aspect of urban children was noted whereas pain response in term of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score was found to be non-significant. Lockdown and the resulting confinement has significant effects on emotional and behavioral response of urban school going children. This study was aimed at evaluation of these psychosomatic factors in term of Pain Evaluation Response (PER) by correlating them with pain response.

Atopic diseases have increased in prevalence over the last few decades and the rapid increases suggest that the predominant driving forces behind these increases are environmental factors rather than genetic alterations. A number of environmental factors have been implicated in the increased prevalence of allergic diseases. Predominant among them are increased exposure to pollutants and decreased exposure to microbes and parasitic infections. The hygiene hypothesis suggests that increased hygiene and lack of exposure to microbes and parasitic infections at an early age prevents the necessary stimulus to train the developing immune system to develop tolerogenic responses. Lifestyle factors, such as increased time spent indoors, use of antibiotics, and consumption of processed foods and decreased exposure to farm animals and pets, limit exposure to environmental allergens, infectious parasitic worms, and microbes. The lack of exposure to these factors is thought to prevent proper education and training of the immune system. Other factors that are also associated with increased risk of allergic diseases are Caesarian birth, birth order, tobacco smoke exposure and psychosomatic factors. Here, we review current knowledge on the environmental factors that have been shown to affect the development of allergic diseases and the recent developments in the field.

Although genetic factors play a role in the etiology of atopic disease, the rapid increases in the prevalence of these diseases over the last few decades suggest that environmental, rather than genetic factors are the driving force behind the increasing prevalence. In modern societies, there is increased time spent indoors, use of antibiotics, and consumption of processed foods and decreased contact with farm animals and pets, which limit exposure to environmental allergens, infectious parasitic worms, and microbes. The lack of exposure to these factors is thought to prevent proper education and training of the immune system. Increased industrialization and urbanization have brought about increases in organic and inorganic pollutants. In addition, Caesarian birth, birth order, increased use of soaps and detergents, tobacco smoke exposure and psychosomatic factors are other factors that have been associated with increased rate of allergic diseases. Here, we review current knowledge on the environmental factors that have been shown to affect the development of allergic diseases and the recent developments in the field.

Psychosomatic disorders are frequent in gastroenterological practice. Visceral pain and motor-evacuation disorders of the gastrointestinal tract is a common symptom of functional gastrointestinal disorders which have a multifactorial etiology. Many patients with these diseases have comorbid behavioral disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and functional gastrointestinal disorders are described as disorders of the “gastrointestinal tract-brain” axis. Chronic stress can change the central pattern of pain, as well as motor activity and permeability of the gastrointestinal tract. The multidirectional treatment for these diseases should include psychotropic drugs and groups of somatic antipsychotics and antidepressants.

Introduction The impact of social isolation and touch deprivation on sleep symptoms (insomnia, nightmares) during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID19) pandemic has been recognized. These results however may have been confounded by various other disease-related factors that can directly impact sleep eg., medical complications associated with COVID19; trauma response and the economic impact of the pandemic. We examined previously unpublished data, from an earlier Canadian community-based survey (1997–1998) of psychosomatic factors (including sleep symptoms), associated with perceived touch deprivation (PTD). Methods 360 consecutive consenting participants (316 community volunteers,44 psychiatric outpatients; 270 women; 94% white; mean±SD age: 38.3±14.5 years) completed a large battery of questions related to psychosomatic factors and the skin. The methods are described in previous publications [Gupta MA 2004; Gupta MA 2006] from this study. PTD was measured with the following item (rated on a 10-point Likert-type scale where “0” denoted “not at all” and rating of “9” denoted “very markedly”): “At the present time I wish I could get more hugs from others”’. Some of the sleep ratings in the survey read as follows: Insomnia1: “How long do you generally take to fall asleep at night?”(rating of “1” denoted “immediately”, “2” denoted ”1hour”). Secondly, participants rated how frequently they experienced the following sleep symptoms using a 4-point scale: “Awakenings from sleep”(Insomnia 2); “Dreams”; “Nightmares: “Snoring”; and “Jerking of arms or legs” (rating of “1” denoted “Never”, “2” denoted “Sometimes”, “3” denoted “Often”, 4 denoted “Always”). Results PTD scale scores (mean±SD: 3.81±2.85; range 0–9) correlated significantly with the following: Insomnia1 (r=0.219, p Conclusion In a pre-COVID19 community study, PTD was more problematic among the younger age group, and correlated with sleep onset and maintenance difficulties, nightmares and limb jerking, highlighting the importance of social touch in sleep. Support (if any) None

Zusammenfassung Fragestellung: In unserer alternden Gesellschaft gehort der Gelenkersatz bei gonarthrotischen Veranderungen zu den haufigen Operationen. Trotz hochentwickelter Prothetik und chirurgischer Technik fuhren diese Behandlungen nicht immer zum gewunschten Erfolg im Sinne einer weitgehenden Schmerzreduktion und funktionellen Beanspruchbarkeit des Gelenkes beziehungsweise zu einer befriedigenden Algofunktion (AF). Partiell machen Kliniker hierfur auch psychische Einflusse verantwortlich, zumal wenn objektive medizinische Komplikationen nicht bestehen. Methodik: Die vorliegende Ubersicht fasst bisherige Untersuchungen zur Rolle psychosomatischer Wechselwirkungen bei Kniegelenksersatztherapie (TKA) zusammen. Ergebnisse: Perioperativ zeigen sich ausgepragte psychische Belastungen, die eine Verbindung zur postoperativen Algofunktion aufweisen. Diskussion: Theoretische und praktische Implikationen der geschilderten Zusammenhange werden diskutiert.

BackgroundSingle-centre studies show that alexithymia, defined as difficulty in recognizing and describing emotions, is more prevalent among patients with psoriasis than in the general population. However, its prevalence and the consequences of the association between alexithymia and psoriasis are unclear. ObjectivesThe primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of alexithymia, as defined by a score 61 in the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale, in a large sample of patients who had plaque psoriasis for 10years and were eligible for phototherapy or systemic treatment. The secondary objectives were to investigate the relationship between alexithymia and the clinical and psychological aspects of psoriasis. MethodsData were collected in the framework of an observational, multicentre, international study, the EPidemiological Study In Patients With Recently DiagnosEd PSOriasis (EPIDEPSO), aiming at investigating the prevalence of alexithymia and other psychosocial comorbidities in patients with psoriasis of 10years' disease duration. ResultsThe prevalence of alexithymia within a cohort of 670 patients was 248% (95% confidence interval 217-282). Patients with alexithymia had a higher burden of psoriasis, including significant impairment of quality of life, higher levels of anxiety and depression, a higher risk of alcohol dependency and impairment of work productivity, compared with patients without alexithymia. ConclusionsIt is important to identify alexithymic patients with psoriasis in clinical practice as they experience a higher disease burden and have a lower ability to express their feelings.

Acne is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceal unit. Dermatological disorders are often associated with a variety of psychological problems which the patient have. Psichodermatologic disorders (acne) are associated with skin problems that are not directly connected to the mind, but that react to emotional states, such as stress. The aim of this article is to show if there is any psychological characteristic which are common for the whole group of ill-patients from acne, as well as whether there is correlation between any type of acne and psychological parameters. Own exploration consist at thirty patients with three clinical type of acne. Personality test-Kornel index were used for identification and diagnostic psychosomatic disorders. The results are: neurastenic parameters, parameters of conversion and parameters of psychopathy in different percent at both sex, and different clinical features. We show correlation united 2-6 psichosomatic disorders in male sex with softly type of acne. In female sex with any type of acne are responsible 7-12 united findings. The association of several psychosomatic factors could possibly be responsible for the onset of acne at any type.

This study evaluates trepanations from five well-contextualized prehistoric sites in the south- central highlands of Andahuaylas, Peru. The emergence of trepanation in this region coincides with the collapse of the Wari Empire, ca. AD 1000. Thirty-two individuals from Andahuaylas, AMS radiocarbon dated to the early Late Intermediate Period (ca. AD 1000-1250), were found to have 45 total trepanations. Various surgical techni- ques were being employed concurrently throughout the region. Scraping trepanations evinced the highest sur- vival rate; circular grooving, drilling and boring, and lin- ear cutting were far less successful. Evidence of perioperative procedures like hair shaving, poultice application, and possible cranioplasty use aimed to ensure the survival of a trepanation recipient. Postmor- tem trepanations, also present in Andahuaylas, were likely executed on corpses as a means of better under- standing cranial anatomy and improving techniques. Similarities in trepanation patterns throughout the region attest to common motivations to engage in sur- gery. Although moderate physical head trauma seems to be the impetus for intervention in many cases of trepa- nation, other motivations included physiological and pos- sibly psychosomatic factors. Nevertheless, treatment was not for everyone. In Andahuaylas, trepanations were withheld from subadults, females, and those individuals who practiced cranial modification. Am J Phys Anthro- pol 152:484-494, 2013. V C 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Subjects of the study were 100 chronic abdominal pain syndrome inpatients assigned to subgroups of different level of significance of psychological factors for the development of pain syndrome, different self-assessed pain level (utilizing visual analog scale), and different type of attitude towards disease (by the Bekhterev Institute Personality Inventory). Character and psychodynamic specialties were assessed in the aforementioned subgroups following to assignment. Proved by clinical and psychometric methods diagnosis of somatoform pain disorder was used as an indicator of high importance of psychological determinants. Differences between subgroups were assessed by the kit of questionnaires (Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger Anxiety Scales, Wasserman Social Frustration Inventory, TAS, MCMI-III) and projective tests (Luscher and Szondi tests). Interference between psychosomatic and demographic characteristics within the sample, and accuracy of assigning subjects to subgroups were discussed. Interpretation of the acquired data with implications for psychotherapists was offered.

Background Clinical observations and epidemiological studies suggest that some negative life events and psychological factors may contribute to an increased susceptibility to periodontal diseases. Management of periodontal diseases is a fundamental part of general practice. This study explored general dental practitioner's awareness about psychosomatic factors and their role in periodontal disease progression. Aim To evaluate the awareness of general dental practioners of Mangalore city and their professional behavior towards patients with stress and depression and periodontal infection. Method Data were collected from 55 general dental practitioners of Mangalore city. 27 respondents were purely general practitioners and other were academicians who were practicing general dentistry. Results the respondents had awareness about the effect of stress and depression on periodontal tissues and their management. They were able to identify the periodontal conditions which occur primarily because of stress. Conclusion The general dental practitioners play a key role in the success of the treatment of periodontal disease since they are the primary care providers. The respondents were significantly aware about the psychological factors such as stress and depression and its significance on periodontium. This may be due to the involvement of more number of young practitioners who were well educated about psychosomatic factors and their effects on periodontium in their dental education.

Am 09. April 1940 überfielen deutsche Truppen Norwegen. Neun Monate später kamen die ersten 'Wehrmachtskinder' zur Welt. Im Laufe des Krieges wurden 72 Heime des 'Lebensborn' (ein von der SS getragener Verein zur Erhöhung der Geburtenrate 'arischer' Kinder) in Norwegen gegründet, so viele wie in keinem anderen durch das NS-Regime besetzten Land; darunter befand sich das erste außerhalb des damaligen Deutschen Reiches gelegene. In den Archiven des Lebensborn wurden knapp 8000 Kinder registriert. Schätzungen gehen davon aus, dass während der deutschen Okkupationszeit in Norwegen 10000 bis 12 000 Kinder geboren wurden, deren Väter den deutschen Truppen angehörten und deren Mütter norwegische Staatsbürgerinnen waren. Die 'Wehrmachtskinder' trugen ein doppeltes Stigma: Sie waren häufig unehelich geboren und waren durch die Beziehung mit dem Feind entstanden. Aus Zeitzeugnissen geht hervor, dass ihr soziales Umfeld sie diskriminierte und ausgrenzte; sie wurden verhöhnt und zum Teil körperlich und seelisch misshandelt. Auch von staatlicher Seite widerfuhren Ihnen unterschiedliche Repressalien. Die geistes- und sozialwissenschaftlichen Fächer haben die Umstände und Bedingungen der norwegischen 'Wehrmachtskinder' bereits Ende des letzten Jahrhunderts als Forschungsgegenstand aufgegriffen. Die psychosozialen Fächer haben dieses Thema jedoch erst kürzlich begonnen zu bearbeiten. Im Rahmen des hier vorgestellten Forschungsvorhabens werden erstmalig mittels eines umfangreichen Fragebogens die psychosozialen Konsequenzen des Aufwachsens als 'Wehrmachtskind' im Nachkriegsnorwegen erfasst. Das Projekt ist in eine bereits etablierte internationale und interdisziplinäre Forschungsstruktur zu den 'Kinder[n] des Krieges' eingebunden (www.childrenbornofwar.org), wobei an den Universitäten Leipzig und Greifswald die psychosoziale Belastung von Besatzungskindern in Deutschland parallel untersucht wird. Eine Besonderheit der norwegischen Situation sind die umfangreichen Aktivitäten des 'Lebensborn', der während des Krieges für viele Wehrmachtskinder und deren Mütter eine wichtige Rolle spielte. On 9 April 1940, German troops invaded Norway. Nine months later the first 'Wehrmacht children' were born. In the course of the war, 13 'Lebensborn' homes were established in Norway, more than in any other country occupied by the Nazis and including the first ever of these homes to be set up outside the former German Reich. (The Lebensborn was an SS-initiated association dedicated to raising the number of 'Aryan' births via extramarital relations between people living up to Nazi standards of health and racial purity). In the archives of the Lebensborn almost 8,000 children were registered. It is estimated that 10,000 to 12,000 children were born during the German occupation of Norway whose fathers belonged to the German troops and whose mothers were Norwegian nationals. 'Wehrmacht children' labored under a dual stigma. They were (often) born out of wedlock and they were the fruit of relations with the enemy. Socially they were discriminated and marginalized. They were ridiculed and, in many cases, physically and mentally abused. These children also suffered a variety of reprisals from the state. Initial investigations of the biographies and careers of the 'Wehrmacht children' in Norway date back to the end of the last century, most of them undertaken by scholars working in the humanities and the social sciences. Recently, the psychosocial sciences have also taken up this issue. The research project discussed here is the first to investigate the psychosocial consequences of growing up as a 'Wehrmacht child' in post-war Norway. The project is part of an established international and interdisciplinary research network named 'Children Born of War' (www.childrenbornofwar.org). The Universities of Leipzig and Greifswald have conducted a parallel study on occupation-born German children after WWII. A special feature of the Norwegian situation is the extensive activity of the 'Lebensborn', which played an important role for many 'Wehrmacht children' and their mothers during the war.

Summary Background. While psychosomatic factors may be involved in eliciting as well as coping with chronic itch, psychiatric comorbidity often goes unrecognized in dermatological patients. Aim. To record psychiatric illness, psychiatric and psychotherapeutic pretreatment, and psychotherapy indication in dermatology inpatients with pruritus. Methods. A consecutive sample of 109 dermatology inpatients with the symptom of pruritus were examined by interviews with consecutive ratings by experts (using psychiatric ICD-10 diagnoses, the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale and the Impairment Score) and self-assessment using the the Eppendorf Itch Questionnaire. Results. In > 70% of the pruritus patients, 1–6 psychiatric diagnoses could be demonstrated. In > 60%, psychotherapeutic or psychiatric treatment was recommended. In contrast, almost 90% of the patients had had no previous psychotherapeutic experience. Conclusion. As psychiatric comorbidity in dermatology inpatients suffering from chronic itch is high, dermatology departments should aim for an improvement of their psychosomatic consultation and liaison services.

There is increasing evidence of psychosomatic factors in dermatological disorders. The article shows the present aspects of psychosomatic dermatology: the psychiatric, the psychosomatic and the somato-psychiatric skin diseases. To each of this points two examples of specific skin diseases are discribed. Finally, clinically important issues of psychosomatic care and dermatological therapy of patients with psychosomatic diseases are reviewed.

Introdução: A amnésia global transitória (AGT) consiste na ocorrência de sintomas como perda da memória e perda da orientação temporal e/ou espacial, de caráter temporário, e cuja causa não está associada às condições neurológicas mais comuns e clássicas, como epilepsia ou acidente vascular cerebral (AVC). Os maiores fatores de risco conhecidos para a AGT são a idade, geralmente ocorrendo em maiores de 50 anos, a ocorrência de episódios de estresse ou esforço físico antes do evento, sendo comum ocorrer em pessoas com antecedentes de enxaqueca. Casuística: Neste trabalho foi relatado o caso de um paciente de 61 anos, do sexo masculino, com história de amnésia com duração de um período de 5 horas. O mesmo foi submetido ao exame de ressonância magnética no dia seguinte que não evidenciou alterações; devido à suspeita de AGT, um novo exame de RM foi realizado três dias depois, demonstrando pequena área de alteração de sinal no hipocampo direito. Discussão: Os testes diagnósticos a serem realizados incluem exames para investigar um possível AVC ou episódio epiléptico. Além disso, é importante a investigação de fatores psicossomáticos e pesquisa de transtornos psiquiátricos associados, bastante relacionados à ocorrência de AGT. Conclusão: Atualmente, ainda há estudos sobre esta patologia, principalmente em relação a sua causa subjacente, levantando-se a hipótese de que seja um sintoma comum a diversas doenças e não uma patologia em si, tornando de suma importância os exames complementares de imagem no seu diagnóstico. Palavras chave: amnésia, amnésia transitória, memória. Introduction: Transient global amnesia (TGA) is the occurrence of symptoms such as loss of memory and orientation to time and/or space, with a temporary character, and whose cause is not linked to the most common classic and neurological conditions, such as epilepsy or stroke. The major known risk factors for TGA are age, usually occurring in greater than 50 year-old people the occurrence of episodes of stress or physical exertion before the event, and it is common in people with a history of migraine. Case Report: We report the case of a 61 year old male with a history of amnesia lasting for a period of 5 hours without other changes. This patient was submitted to MRI on the next day, which showed no alterations, due to suspicion of AGT the examwas repeated and showed morphological changes in the hippocampus. Discussion: Diagnostic tests include some tests to be performed to investigate a possible stroke (CVA) or epileptic episode. Furthermore it is important to investigate psychosomatic factors, and research psychiatric disorders, that are closely related to the occurrence of AGT. Conclusion: Currently, there are no studies on this pathology, especially in relation to its underlying cause, raising the hypothesis that it is a common symptom of many diseases and not a disease itself, making it extremely important to perform complementary imaging in diagnosis Keywords: amnesia, transiente amnesia, memory.

Der Methodenbericht beschreibt die Basiserhebung der PinK-Studie "Paare in Kinderwunschbehandlung". Ziel der Studie ist ein besseres Verständnis der Situation von Paaren mit unerfülltem Kinderwunsch und umfassende Erkenntnisse über die Wege in die Kinderwunschbehandlung. Der Ansatz der Studie ist interdisziplinär. Sie ist als prospektive Kohortenstudie in einem klinischen Umfeld angelegt. Zielgruppe der Studie sind Paare mit unerfülltem Kinderwunsch, die zwischen Juli 2012 und Mai 2013 ein Kinderwunschzentrum in Rheinland-Pfalz oder in der hessischen Landeshauptstadt aufgesucht haben. Als Erhebungsinstrument kamen schriftliche Fragebögen zum Einsatz, die den Patienten durch das Personal der Kinderwunschzentren übergeben wurden. Der finale Datensatz enthält alle bis Ende Juli 2013 zurückgesendete Fragebögen. Es haben 323 Frauen und 242 Männer an der Befragung teilgenommen, darunter 234 Paare, für die vollständige Informationen zu beiden Partnern vorliegen. Der Datensatz ermöglicht damit neben Geschlechtervergleichen auch Paaranalysen. Die Gesamtrücklaufquote liegt bei 31% mit teilweise erheblichen Unterschieden zwischen den Kliniken - mögliche Ursachen und Folgen werden diskutiert. Die Studienpopulation wird hinsichtlich zentraler soziodemografischer Merkmale beschrieben. This paper describes the realization of the baseline survey of the study ‘PinK- Paare in Kinderwunschbehandlung’ (couples undergoing fertility treatment). The study aims at a broader and better understanding of the situation of couples with an unfulfilled desire to have a child and of pathways leading couples to the fertility clinic. The approach of the study is interdisciplinary. It is designed as a prospective cohort study in a clinical setting. The study population consists of couples with an unfulfilled desire to have a child who presented themselves in a fertility clinic in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate (RP) or in the capital city of the state of Hesse between July 2012 and May 2013. Self-administered questionnaires were used to gather information from patients at fertility clinics. These were handed out to the patients by the staff at the fertility clinics. Questionnaires returned by the end of July 2013 were included in the data set. The final sample consists of 323 female and 242 male respondents. In 234 couples, both partners participated. The overall response rate is 31%, with considerable variation across the clinics - reasons for and consequences of this are discussed. The final sample is described in terms of the distribution of core socio-demographic variables.

This investigation assessed psychiatric symptoms among children aged 8-9 years in Finland and in Russia and compared differences in psychiatric symptoms in the countries. We studied 1268 Finnish and 1567 Russian children, using 3 questionnaires. Parents filled out the Rutter Scale A2, teachers filled out the Rutter Scale B2, and the children themselves filled out the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI). Russian children were reported to have more psychiatric symptoms than Finnish children. In particular, hyperactive and psychosomatic symptoms were more prevalent in Russia. Similar numbers of children in the two countries scored above the 90th percentile on at least one of the scales. Russian boys scored higher than their Finnish counterparts on three factors constructed of Rutter Scale A2 items (externalizing, hyperactivity, and psychosomatic factors), and Russian girls scored higher than Finnish girls on two factors (hyperactivity and psychosomatic factors). When a child scored high on at least one of ...

It has been estimated that in at least one third of dermatology patients, effective management of the skin disorder involves consideration of associated emotional factors. This article provides an overview of psychodermatology with a focus on the more recent literature and an emphasis on the clinical aspects and psychologic therapies for (1) cutaneous associations of psychiatric disorders and (2) psychiatric associations of certain cutaneous disorders that are known to be influenced by psychosomatic factors. This article also provides an update on the use of psychotropic drugs (i.e., the antianxiety, antidepressant, and antipsychotic agents) for the treatment of mental disorders that occur in conjunction with cutaneous conditions. Some of their other pharmacologic properties, such as the antihistaminic and analgesic effects of some antidepressant agents are also reviewed.

Objective To review the literature regarding the use of animal models in research addressing psychosomatic aspects of diabetes. Method We examine the key findings in animal model vs. human research in the area of stress and diabetes. Previous research has suggested that stress is a potential contributor to chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes. Stress affects metabolic activity via the stimulation of a variety of hormones that can result in elevated blood glucose levels. In patients with diabetes, due to a relative or absolute lack of insulin, stress-induced increases in glucose cannot be properly metabolized. Additionally, regulation of these stress hormones may be abnormal in diabetes. Results Human studies on the role of stress in the onset and course of type II diabetes are few and are limited by the constraints and logistics of examining life stress in humans. However, animal research allows for tight experimental control and the manipulation of factors that may contribute to the development and/or course of diabetes, such as stress, eating behavior, the nutrient content of food, and physical activity. Disease processes can be examined at a mechanistic level in animals which is typically limited in human research. Conclusions There is a large body of animal work to support the notion that stress reliably produces hyperglycemia in type II diabetes. Furthermore, there is evidence that the autonomic nervous system plays a role in the pathophysiology of this condition in both animals and humans. Examination of eating behavior and nutrient content of food in animal models of diabetes has shed light on the role of these factors in the development of diabetes, as well as obesity. Finally, genetic research using animal models of diabetes will provide new directions for research in humans to delineate the genetic contribution to the development of diabetes.

This study investigated the dentists’ knowledge about psychosomatic medicine. Anxiolytic techniques, considerations about psychosomatic medicine, and referrals to psychotherapists were examined by a questionnaire. Overall, 65 percent felt negatively affected by patients with dental fear. Few dentists used relaxation techniques and hypnosis. The relationship between psychosomatic factors and pain perception was well known, but not their impact on wound healing. The frequency of continuing education courses correlated with a broader range of treatment techniques and less difficulties in treatment. Research evidence about the impact of psychological factors on dental treatment has not been translated into dental practice.

The 24-h dietary intake, nutritional status parameters and psychosomatic factors of two-shift, three-shift and day workers were compared. Estimations of the dietary intake (across a work cycle) were made by use of a nutrient database. No significant differences were found between the groups for a large number of nutritional variables: intake of energy; intake and percentage of energy from protein, fat, total carbohydrates and sucrose; intake of coffee; and intake and density of vitamins and minerals. Only minor differences were found between the groups with regard to the quantitative intake of alcohol and calcium, and with regard to the quality of the diet (percentage of energy from alcohol, density of calcium). The groups differed significantly with respect to attitude towards work hours (three-shift workers being most negative in their attitude) and sleep disturbances (shift workers being most negative). The three-shift workers were more evening-oriented and they had higher concentrations of gl...

Evidence indicates that a link between peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and selected psychosomatic factors may exist. A series of 70 consecutive male and female adult patients were categorized by peptic symptoms and divided into four groups: a) controls; b) gastric ulcer (GU); c) duodenal ulcer (DU); and d) chronic non-ulcer dyspepsia (CNUD). All patients were interviewed and asked to answer a questionnaire that included demographics, medical history and the incidence of negative life events. A decreased level of activity was a predominant finding in GU, DU and CNUD patients. Family history of PUD may be correlated with CNUD. Of interest was the finding that DU and CNUD patients presented a higher incidence of negative life events when compared to the other study groups. Negative life events that produce considerable stress may predispose to peptic symptoms in certain patients.

Itch is a suffering as well as pain. Its impact on the quality of life and psychism can be considerable. Vice versa, stress and psychological factors can influence it.

Objective: To study the prevalence of symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in two cohorts of 70-year-old subjects examined 8 years apart and analyse the relationship between such symptoms and dental status, general health and various background factors. Materials and methods: Two cohorts of 70-year-old subjects, born in 1922 (n = 422) and 1930 (n = 491) respectively, were examined with an interval of 8 years. A TMD symptom index (0–5) was established on answers to five questions related to TMD symptoms. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the two cohorts for prevalence of TMD symptoms and TMD index, neither for headache, neck ache, bruxism and chewing ability. TMJ sounds was the most prevalent symptom, 14%, whereas other TMD symptoms had low prevalence. The distribution of the TMD symptom index showed that 81% reported no symptoms, 15% one symptom, 3% two symptoms and 1% three to five symptoms. Single TMD symptoms and the TMD index exhibited significant associations (p

Wird über Krankheit von Migranten und Migrantinnen gesprochen, so werden schnell Kategorisierungen von Kulturdifferenz und Fremdheitserfahrung herangezogen. Um kulturalistische und verallgemeinernde Objektivierungen zu überwinden, werden in der Studie anhand biographisch narrativer Interviews seelische, körperliche und sozialweltliche Phänomene im Kontext von Migrationserfahrungen untersucht. Als »medizinische Fälle« diagnostizierte türkische Menschen wurden gebeten, ihre Lebensgeschichte zu erzählen. Diese biographischen Alltagserzählungen mit ihren Interpretationen der Migrationserfahrungen und des Krankwerdens in Deutschland stehen im Zentrum der Studie. Die eigene Lebenspraxis wird als biographische Arbeit bei der Balancierung lebens- und familiengeschichtlicher Erfahrungen und von gesellschaftlichen Anforderungen gewürdigt. Folgenden Fragen geht die Studie nach: In welche lebensgeschichtliche und gesellschaftliche Konstellation sind die Erfahrungen von Krankheit eingebettet? Welche Rolle spielt die individuelle Migrationsgeschichte? Wie sprechen Menschen über ihr eigenes Leben und die Welt und wie wird dieses Sprechen durch die Einflüsse im Herkunfts- sowie im Migrationsland beeinflusst?

Psychosomatics describes any aspect of dermatology with psychologic or psychiatric elements. Dermatologists know that a significant proportion of their practice involves patients for whom psychologic elements either partially or sometimes entirely dominate their presenting chief complaints. This article explores the role of psychosomatic factors in dermatologic disorders. The authors discuss the clinical interface between psychiatry, psychology and dermatology and the interpretation of possible relationships between cutaneous diseases, the role of the mind, and psychotherapeutic interventions.

Atopic dermatitis can now be considered a typical psychosomatic disease in which there is interaction between genetic disposition, multifactorial eliciting circumstances, and psychosomatic factors in the exacerbation or in coping with the disease.

Der Beitrag befasst sich mit den psycho- und soziosomatischen Störungen von Kindern und Jugendlichen, die in den letzten 20 Jahren immer stärker um sich greifen. Psycho- und soziosomatische Störungen ergeben sich aus einem mangelnden Gleichgewicht der Systeme von Körper, Psyche und Umwelt. Sind sie nicht im Einklang miteinander, kommt es zu Fehlsteuerungen in jedem Einzelbereich und in der Gesamtkoordination dieser Systeme. Die wesentlichen Störungen umfassen die folgenden Aspekte: (1) Fehlsteuerung des Immunsystems, (2) Störungen der Nahrungsaufnahme und des Ernährungsverhaltens, (3) Fehlsteuerung der Sinneskoordination, (4) unzureichende Bewältigung von psychischen Beanspruchungen und sozialen Anforderungen sowie (5) Konsum psychoaktiver Substanzen. Diese Alarmsignale zeigen, wo und wie heute die meisten Krankheiten von Kindern und Jugendlichen entstehen: Durch die Fehlanpassung von körperlich-physiologischen, psychisch-seelischen und sozialökologischen Systemen. Der elementare Ausgleich zwischen den Anforderungen der inneren und äußeren Welt gelingt nicht, es kommt zu keinem befriedigenden Ausgleich von Risiko- und Schutzfaktoren. Psychosomatische und mentale Gesundheitsstörungen lassen sich nur begrenzt mit medizinischer Behandlung und Arzneimitteln eindämmen. Die eigentliche Antwort liegt in der zwischenmenschlichen Beziehung und Erziehung. Das 'magische Erziehungsdreieck', das jeder Vater und jede Mutter zu lösen hat, hat es in sich. Erziehung ist die richtige Dosierung von drei Polen, nämlich Anerkennung, Anregung und Anleitung. An allen drei Polen tun sich Eltern heute schwer: (1) Das richtige Maß von Anerkennung mit Wärme und Zuwendung ist schwer zu finden, wenn eine Mutter oder ein Vater selbst unter voller Anspannung steht und durch das Kind beansprucht wird. (2) Anregung soll die Selbstständigkeit fördern und Impulse setzen, die dem Kind zur Weiterentwicklung gegeben werden. Hier machen fast alle Eltern heute den Fehler, überehrgeizig auf die schulische Entwicklung zu achten und nervös auf jedes kleine Versagen zu reagieren. (3) Das Setzen von Regeln, Grenzen und Vereinbarungen fällt Vätern und Müttern heute ebenfalls schwer. Die meisten versuchen, einem autoritären Stil auszuweichen und ohne feste Vereinbarungen und Sanktionen auszukommen, übersehen aber, dass sie damit das Kind ins Leere laufen lassen und eine verbindliche Beziehung verweigern. Viele gesundheitliche Störungen der Kinder haben hier ihre Ursachen. Psychosomatische und mentale Gesundheitsstörungen erfordern nach Einschätzung des Autors die interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit von Fachleuten für körperliche, psychische und soziale Probleme. Daran hapert es in Deutschland noch. Jede Berufsgruppe hütet ihre Zuständigkeit. Die 'neuen' Kinderkrankheiten können so nicht zurückgedrängt werden. Es wird Zeit, neben den Pädagoginnen und Pädagogen andere Berufe in die Gesundheitsförderung mit einzubeziehen: Ärzte, Psychologen, Sozialarbeiter, Arbeitstherapeuten, Architekten, Raumgestalter und Physiotherapeuten. (ICG2)