bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasopressin surrogate marker copeptin as a potential novel endocrine biomarker for antidepressant treatment response in major depression: A pilot study
Authors: Agorastos A. , Sommer A. , Wiedemann K. , Demiralay C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) constitutes the leading cause of disability worldwide. Although efficacious antidepressant pharmacotherapies exist for MDD, only about 40-60% of the patients respond to initial treatment. However, there is still a lack of robustly established and applicable biomarkers for antidepressant response in everyday clinical practice.

Objectives

This study targets the assessment of the vasopressin (AVP) surrogate marker Copeptin (CoP), as a potential peripheral hypothalamic-level biomarker of antidepressant treatment response in MDD.

Methods

We measured baseline and dynamic levels of plasma CoP along with plasma ACTH and cortisol (CORT) in drug-naive outpatients with MDD before and after overnight manipulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis [i.e., stimulation (metyrapone) and suppression (dexamethasone)] on three consecutive days and their association with treatment response to 4 weeks of escitalopram treatment.

Results

Our findings suggest significantly higher baseline and post-metyrapone plasma CoP levels in future non-responders, a statistically significant invert association between baseline CoP levels and probability of treatment response and a potential baseline plasma CoP cut-off level of above 2.9 pmol/L for future non-response screening. Baseline and dynamic plasma ACTH and CORT levels showed no association with treatment response.

Conclusions

This pilot study provide first evidence in humans that CoP may represent a novel, clinically easily applicable, endocrine biomarker of antidepressant response, based on a single-measurement, cut-off level. These findings, underline the role of the vasopressinergic system in the pathophysiology of MDD and may represent a significant new tool in the clinical and biological phenotyping of MDD enhancing individual-tailored therapies.
Mental health in time of pandemics: Study protocol to incorporate risk and protective factors contributing to psychological stress among portuguese and swiss higher education students
Authors: Laranjeira C. , Querido A. , Valentim O. , Charepe Z. , Dixe M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is inducing fear, and a timely understanding of mental health status is urgently needed for society. Previous research has revealed a profound and wide range of psychosocial impacts on people at the individual, community, and international levels. On an individual level, people are likely to experience fear of falling sick or dying themselves, feelings of helplessness, and stigma. Currently, there is little understanding of mental well-being assessment under scenarios of pandemics that oblige to social isolation and quarantine.

Objectives

This study aims to: a) establish the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms; b) identify risk and protective factors contributing to psychological stress; and c) identify coping strategies to promote better adjustment during and after the pandemic crisis.

Methods

We will adopt a mixed-method approach, firstly with a cross-sectional survey design (in both Portugal and Swiss context) to assess the higher education student’s psychosocial response during and after the pandemic, by using an anonymous online questionnaire. In a 2nd phase, and in order to gain more insight into the psychological stress faced by the students as a result of pandemic, a qualitative approach was chosen, focusing on the experiences of the participants.

Results

This study has received ethical approval from both international and local institutional review boards. Data collection will start in November 2020 and will be completed at February 2021.

Conclusions

The findings of this study will provide important data to assist government agencies and healthcare professionals in safeguarding the psychosocial wellbeing of the community in the face of COVID-19 outbreak expansion.
Time perspective and psychological hardiness mediate a COVID-19 related life threat
Authors: Nikolaev E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Unpredictable risks of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality make people suffer from threats and fears. Are there any psychological personality traits that correlate with a decrement in such feelings?

Objectives

To specify the relationship between psychological characteristics of time perspective, hardiness and COVID-19-related life threat.

Methods

We used Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory, Maddi Hardiness Scale and a 17-point Attitude towards COVID-19 Questionnaire to question 327 Russian university students on social networks. The survey was carried out in the second half of May 2020 in the period of increasing COVID-19 morbidity and mortality rates. The mean age of the respondents was 21.24±2.84; most of them were females (61.16%).

Results

The survey showed that every fifth respondent had a high level of COVID-19-related life threat (21.10 %). At the same time, every tenth of the respondents (10.09%) saw no threat to their life in the situation of a fast spreading dangerous novel coronavirus infection. According to the correlation analysis, decrement in feeling personal threat related to the spread of COVID-19 was directly associated (p<0.05) with low indicators on the scales of Negative Past (r=0.16), Hedonistic Present (r=0.13) and Fatalistic Present (r=0.17). Certain inverse relation was found between the level of COVID-19 related life threat and such indicators as psychological hardiness – commitment (r=-0.16), and challenge (r=-0.23).

Conclusions

Dispositional orientation to the present and future, as well as psychological characteristics of hardiness may mediate COVID-19 related life threat; therefore, these may be used as a possible basis for preventing stress and mental disorders in population.
Professional satisfaction of nurses in psychosocial rehabilitation services
Authors: Zartaloudi A. , Karvouni L. , Adamakidou T. , Mantzorou M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The increase of job satisfaction in mental health nurses, working in community mental facilities, helps them to become more efficient and understand the needs of individuals suffering from mental health problems.

Objectives

To investigate sociodemographic and job characteristics, as well as the level of professional satisfaction of nurses working in psychosocial rehabilitation facilities of the psychiatric hospital of Athens, named Dafni.

Methods

220 nurses, working in the field of psychosocial rehabilitation completed (a) a sociodemographic questionnaire, (b) Spectοr’s Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS).

Results

Nursing staff consists of mental health nurses (44.1%) and nursing assistants (55.9%) in the present study. 90% of the participants were female; while the 65% were married, the 19.5% had a university-level education and the 25% had administrative responsibilities. The 44.1% of our sample worked in hostels, 41.8% in nursing homes and 6.8% in Community Mental Health Centers. More specifically, moderate levels of total professional satisfaction were observed. Concerning the dimensions of satisfaction, low satisfaction rates were recorded in “salary”, “promotion” and in “privileges and benefits”. High satisfaction rates were recorded in “supervision by their superiors”, “cooperation between colleagues” and “the nature of their work”, while moderate satisfaction rates were reported in “communication” within facilities, as far as the explanation of tasks and objectives is concerned.

Conclusions

The results can be exploited by those with administrative and scientific responsibilities in the field of mental health in order to recognize nurses’ difficulties and solve their problems in psychosocial rehabilitation facilities.
The effect of job stress appraisals on mental health among health professionals: The mediating role of work engagement
Authors: Chaabouni A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Health professionals face an increased risk of developing mental health difficulties due to work-related stress. It has been demonstrated that work engagement has a protective role on mental health from work-related stress. The majority of the research on the psychological impact of job stress among health professionals focused on the work-related stressors or the type of stressors as challenges or hindrances. However, the impact might depend on an individual’s appraisal of challenges and hindrances.

Objectives

- Examine the effects of job appraisals on mental health. - Establish the role of work engagement as a mediator between them.

Methods

An online survey was completed by 196 health professionals and included questionnaires about job appraisals, stressors (variety of tasks, responsibility and cooperation with colleagues), work engagement, anxiety and depression.

Results

Appraising stressors as challenges did not have any direct impact on mental health, whereas hindrance appraisals had a negative influence. Participants who appraised cooperation with colleagues as challenging reported lower levels of depression through higher work engagement (B = − 0.17, 95% CI [− 0.354, − 0.027]). Appraising variety of tasks as a hindrance predicted higher levels of depression through lower work engagement (B = 0.150, 95% CI [0.041, 0.289]). Participants appraising the other two stressors as hindrances were more anxious and depressed through lower work engagement.

Conclusions

The negative psychological impact of hindrance appraisals was persistent, whereas the positive impact of challenge appraisals through work engagement depended on the stressor. Stress interventions may need to consider both the type of appraisal and the type of stressor.
Social networks, depressive symptoms and quality of life in the elderly: Results of an intergenerational program
Authors: Amaral A.P. , Nascimento M.J. , Rocha C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Intergenerational programs involving children and the elderly promote intergenerational interactions and can positively affect physical and mental health, and the quality of life of the elderly.

Objectives

To test the effects of an intergenerational intervention in social isolation, depressive symptoms and quality of life of the elderly.

Methods

This study employed a pretest-posttest design. Measures: Portuguese versions of Geriatric Depression Scale, Lubben Social Networks Scale and WHOQOL-OLD. Participants: 12 elderly, 75% females, with mean age of 80.8 years (sd=8.8) and 20 kindergarten children (65% female) with mean age of 4,1 years (sd=0.79). The intervention ran for 6 weeks, with 11 intergenerational group sessions, each range between 30 and 120 minutes. A nonparametric paired samples tests was conducted to evaluate the impact of the intervention.

Results

After the intervention, when comparing elderly with and without depressive symptoms, results showed significant differences in the total value of quality of life (p=.048) and in the facets: 1) Sensory functioning, 2) Autonomy, 3) Past, present and future activities (p=.003; p=.018; p=.030, respectively). 12,5% of de elderly with depressive symptoms before the intervention no longer have depressive symptoms after the intervention. Regarding social networks, there were no significant differences (p=.576) between the mean values of the two assessments.

Conclusions

The implemented intergenerational program was effective in promoting quality of live and minimized depressive symptoms. After the intervention, the number of the elderly without depressive symptoms have increased and these presented a higher quality of life. Finally, longitudinal studies with a large sample are needed to consolidate results.
Help-seeking behavior of inmates in norwegian prisons
Authors: Solbakken L. , Bergvik S. , Wynn R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

While prison inmates have an increased risk of mental illness, psychiatric services are often less accessible and insufficient for this group. A low level of awareness or a fear of becoming stigmatised could also influence the help-seeking behaviour of some inmates.

Objectives

To study the knowledge and beliefs regarding mental health and mental illness as well as the help-seeking behaviour of inmates in Norwegian prisons.

Methods

We describe a study of help-seeking behaviour and mental health literacy of prisoners. This is a qualitiative study involving in-depth interviews with inmates in prisons in North Norway.

Results

Recruitment and data collection is ongoing. Central topics in the interviews are inmates’ associations regarding positive mental health and how they can enhance their own well-being while in prison, and how other external factors can contribute to increased well-being. Furthermore, the inmates are asked about their attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge regarding mental illness, and what they think might be factors that can contribute to the development of mental illness. Moreover, we cover topics such as the inmates’ beliefs regarding the treatment of mental illness, strategies for handling such health problems, and sources of information regarding mental health and mental illness.

Conclusions

The study will increase knowledge about how prisoners think about mental health and mental illness and the help-seeking behaviours of prison inmates. In a next step, this understanding can be utilized in improving information about well-being, mental illness, and psychiatric services to prisoners.
Self-reported mental health among individuals with mental disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Østergaard S. , Kølbæk P. , Speed M. , Jefsen O.
Published: February 2022

Background

Individuals with mental illness may be particularly vulnerable to the negative impact that the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic seems to have on mental health. Most prior studies on this topic are however limited by non-random sampling, lack of information on non-respondents, and self-reported diagnoses. Here, we aimed at overcoming these limitations by means of random sampling in a population of clinically diagnosed patients, acquisition of clinical and socio-demographic data on non-respondents, and weighting of results informed by attrition.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire-based online survey inviting six-thousand randomly drawn patients from the psychiatric services of the Central Denmark Region. They survey data were merged with sociodemographic- and clinical data from medical records on all invitees, which enabled analysis of attrition and weighting of results. The questionnaire included the 18-item Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI-18), the 5-item World Health Organization Well-Being Index (WHO-5), and 14 questions evaluating the perceived severity of symptoms during the four-week nationwide lockdown of Denmark in March/April 2020 – using the pre-pandemic period as reference. Reasons for worsening or improvement in mental health during lockdown were also reported.

Results

The preliminary results are as follows: The response rate was ≈20%. Approximately half the respondents reported that their mental health had deteriorated during lockdown, while the other half reported either no change (≈33%) or improvement (≈16%). The most commonly reported reasons for deterioration in mental health were disruption of routines and loneliness.

Conclusion

The final results will be shown at the conference.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Features of infllammatory reactions and clinical picture in elderly and young patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Androsova L. , Barkhatova A. , Sheshenin V. , Zozulya S. , Otman I. , Pochueva V. , Klyushnik T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

It is known that the intensity of inflammation weakens with age, and therefore it is of interest to study the clinical features of schizophreniс process in relation to the level of inflammatory markers.

Objectives

To determine the level of inflammatory markers (the activity of leukocyte elastase (LE) and α1-proteinase inhibitor (α1-PI), autoantibodies (aAB) to neurotrophin S100b and myelin basic protein) in plasma in different years old groups of patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

Two groups of patients with schizophrenia were examined: the 1st group - 19 women aged 60 to 78 years; the 2nd group - 24 women aged 19 to 42 years.

Results

An increase in activity both of LE and α1-PI was found in young patients. This characterizes a balanced inflammatory response. Elderly patients showed a similar increase in the activity of α1-PI, however, LE activity did not exceed the control values. Insufficient LE activity probably characterizes a decrease in the functional activity of neutrophils. The negative correlation was revealed between the activity of LE and TotPsy (PANSS) in the group of elderly patients (r=-0.62, p<05) and positive correlation between aAB to S100b and TotNeg in both groups (r=0.56 and r=0.49, p<05 respectively). There is relationship between age, the activity of psychopathological symptoms and the rate of development of schizophrenia: the rapid course and variety of disorders at a young age, against the poverty of symptoms and a slow rate in the elderly.

Conclusions

There is relationship between the features of inflammatory reactions and clinical picture in elderly and young patients with schizophrenia.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms of multiple sclerosis: A case report
Authors: Dos Santos P. Espada , Facucho-Oliveira J. , Esteves-Sousa D. , Costa M. , Albuquerque M. , Fraga A. , Marinho M. , Cintra P.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Concomitant psychiatric diseases are frequent in MS, with depression and anxiety disorders constituting the majority. The presence of psychotic disorders with MS is rare. Several studies have reported that psychotic symptoms usually develop after the neurological signs of MS and they are mostly linked to the side effects of treatment with interferon or with corticosteroids.

Objectives

The authors report here the case of patient with MS without psychiatric history that developed psychotic symptoms.

Methods

Beside the medical record of the patient a non-systematic search of the literature was carried out in the databases Pubmed and Google Scholar with the terms “Multiple Sclerosis”, “Multiple Sclerosis treatment ”and“ Neuropsychiatric symptoms ”.

Results

A 38 years old woman with MS, with no psychiatry history developed paranoid and reference delusions, several months after starting interferon beta-1a therapy. The inferferon therapy was stopped and the patient was started Risperidone 3 mg id with a rapid but only partial remission of the psychotic symptoms. The patient presented high blood levels of prolactine and the MRI showed a pituitary microadenome. The Risperidone was switched to Aripiprazol 15 mg also with partial remission of the psychtic symptons.

Conclusions

It is not possible to attribute our patient’s psychotic symptoms entirely to his Interferon therapy or to MS lesion load, but the occurrence during treatment, no psychiatric history and the rapid but parcial resolution with discontinuing suggest that Interferon therapy was at least contributory to the clinical picture.
The role of intranasal esketamine in treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Fraga A. , Esteves-Sousa D. , Facucho-Oliveira J. , Albuquerque M. , Costa M. , Espada-Santos P. , Moutinho A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent clinical condition with a leading cause of disability worldwide. Unfortunately, about 1/3 of patients with MDD fail to achieve remission despite treatment with multiple antidepressants and are considered to have treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Research showed abnormalities in glutamatergic transmission in neural circuits and antidepressant efficacy with the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, ketamine.

Objectives

The authors elaborate a narrative literature review on the intranasal esketamine as a new-class antidepressant.

Methods

PubMed database searched using the terms “treatment-resistant depression” and “esketamine”.

Results

Ketamine, synthetized from PCP, acts as an antagonist of NMDA receptor, reducing Central Nervous System excitability. One limitation of ketamine for treating depression is that requires intravenous administration, reducing its applicability in outpatient settings. Esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine, developed as an intranasal formulation has a higher affinity for the NMDA receptor. The evidence of the rapid antidepressant effect of intranasal esketamine was first made by Lapidus et al, that demonstrated intranasal esketamine ability to reduce depressive symptomatology. However, some recent studies reported significant acute cardiovascular, psychotomimetic and neurological side-effects. Thus, drug formulation, delivery device, insufflation technique, and individual factors seem to contribute importantly to the tolerability and efficacy of the intranasal administration rote.

Conclusions

There is the need to develop novel treatments providing effective, more rapid-acting, and sustained relief of depressive symptoms, especially in patients with TRD. Intranasal esketamine has shown antidepressant effects in patients with TRD but further investigation is required to strongly reinforce this potential and safety.
Quetiapine-induced bicytopenia. Case report and literature review
Authors: Higueras T. Gutiérrez , Forés S. Vicent , De La Cuesta Alonso S. Sainz , Cortés F. Calera
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Low white blood cell counts and agranulocytosis are a relatively rare side effect of atypical antipsychotic treatment. Like most atypical antipsychotics, quetiapine only has a 1%-4% risk of low blood cell count. The mechanism by which quetiapine causes these adverse effects is still unclear, some authors have proposed that this drug acts directly as a cytotoxic agent on immune cells and produces cell death, or the products of these drug could induce apoptosis by oxidative stress. Other authors have suggested a bone marrow depression, which could be produced by an inhibitory effect on leukopoiesis.

Objectives

Presentation of a case of a bycitopenia after initiation of Quetiapine Prolong treatment to bipolar disorder and a literature review.

Methods

We carried out a literature review in Pubmed electing those articles focused on cases of patients being treated with quetiapine and cytopenia as a side effect.

Results

A 43-year-old woman with type I bipolar disorder is being treated with quetiapine prolong (50mg). After 6 years bicytopenia (anemia + leukopenia) was discovered in a routine analysis. In the Haematology Unit, long-term treatment with Quetiapine Prolong was found to be the cause of bicytopenia, having ruled out other ethological causes. This drug was suspended and switched to Aripiprazol. Eventually, the remission of symptoms and normalization of analytical parameters were achieved.

Conclusions

In this case highlights the importance of understanding antipsychotic medications and their effects on the haematological system. Quetiapine Prolong produced bycitpoenia (anemia and thrombocytopenia), especially in long treatments. Therefore, clinical practitioners should be aware of this adverse effect.
Cortical excitability and its modulation in obsessive-compulsive disorder - a systematic review
Authors: Silva D. , Maia A. , Cotovio G. , Oliveira J. , Oliveira-Maia A. , Barahona-Correa B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an incapacitating Neuropsychiatric condition characterized by the presence of obsessions and/or compulsions. Although the disorder’s phenotype is well described, its pathophysiology remains elusive (Aouizerate et al, 2004). Over the last decade, techniques to noninvasively study the brain’s neurophysiology, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), have found widespread use in psychiatric research. For OCD, single- and paired-pule TMS protocols have been used to explore abnormalities in motor cortex excitability and cortical neuroplasticity. Here we propose to systematically review and, where possible, metanalyse existing case-control studies that compared such measures in patients and healthy subjects.

Objectives

To systematically review and meta-analyse published case-control studies comparing cortical excitability measures, as measured by single- or paired-pulse TMS, in subjects with OCD and healthy controls.

Methods

We have conducted a systematic review of published literature (PROSPERO registration CRD42020201764) reporting measures of cortical excitability as measured by single or paired-pulse TMS, in patients with OCD and healthy controls. We searched 4 different electronic libraries (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, PsycINFO). The resulting list of articles was reviewed, separately, by two researchers. Disagreements were discussed and resolved by consensus, until a final list of eligible articles was obtained.

Results

13 studies reporting motor cortex excitability measures were included in our final list. The total number of participants included in our analyses is 615 (349 OCD; 180 healthy subjects; 86 other conditions)

Conclusions

A sufficient number of studies was found to allow for metanalyses, currently ongoing.
Vagus nerve stimulation in treatment-resistant depression. Long-term clinical outcomes
Authors: Rosson S. , Bresolin N. , D’Avella D. , Denaro L. , Landi A. , Caiolo S. , Lussignoli M. , Toffanin T. , Pigato G.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulation technique approved for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). Evidence regarding its long-term efficacy and safety is still scarce.

Objectives

To descriptively report a case series of 3 patients undergoing adjunctive VNS for TRD with an over 10-year follow-up.

Methods

We investigated outcomes of clinical interest in patients with ongoing VNS for at least 10 years after the device implantation. They had participated in a larger single-arm interventional study conducted at the University Hospital of Padua. They were diagnosed with chronic unipolar (1), recurrent unipolar (1), and bipolar (1) TRD.

Results

Our 3 cases had an average 14-year history of psychiatric disease before surgery. Afterward, all subjects achieved clinical remission within two years. 2 patients experienced relapses within the first 4 years of treatment (respectively, 1 and 2 episodes). The other case showed a recurrent trend of brief relapses every two years. Only 1 individual needed to be admitted to the psychiatric unit once. None of them committed suicidal attempts. Prescription of antidepressants remained almost unchanged after the first two years. 2 individuals improved and 1 maintained their working position. Common adverse events were voice alteration (3/3), neck pain (2/3), and cough (2/3).

Conclusions

Very few cases of 10-year VNS for TRD have been reported so far. For our subjects, VNS was most likely to have a major impact on the clinical course of the disease. This treatment can be a safe and effective adjunctive intervention in a subgroup of patients with TRD.
The association between work-related factors and use of psychotherapeutic methods with burnout rates in family physicians
Authors: Rubene L. , Miksons A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

A physicians work is closely related to patients and the understanding of their problems. The use of psychotherapeutic methods is a factor for successful care (Swanson, 1994). At the same time burnout is a syndrome that can affect the health of doctors themselves thus reflecting on the quality of care they can provide (Lloyd et al, 2002).

Objectives

To investigate the use of psychotherapeutic methods in family physicians work in Latvia and the association between burnout rates and the use of these methods in practice as well as different demographic and work-related factors.

Methods

A cross sectional study was carried out. An anonymous online form that contained questions about the demographic data, psychotherapeutic methods/techniques mastering and usage and questions from the Maslach Burnout Inventory was sent out to the publicly available email addresses of family physicians in Latvia. The collected data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS software.

Results

Together 54 responses were received from all regions of Latvia. The analysis found association between work hours per week, patients seen per week, usage of psychotherapeutic methods and burnout. More hours per week was associated with higher rates of depersonalization (p=0,014) and burnout (p=0,010). More patients per week was associated with higher rates of burnout (p=0,024). Being unsure if they were using any psychotherapeutic methods was associated with higher rates of depersonalization (p=0,028).

Conclusions

The data obtained allows a better insight in to the usage of psychotherapeutic methods, everyday work and the association with burnout rates in family physicians.
Role of multimodal approach to curing anxiety disorders
Authors: Kudinova O. , Mykhaylov B. , Chorna T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

On the basis of complex clinical anamnestic, clinical psychopatological, pathopsychological research, data were obtained about reasons and conditions of formation, abnormal clinical psychopathological structure, syndrome peculiarities of emotional disfunctions for patients with episodic paroxismal disorders, generalized anxiety disorders and mixed anxiously depressed disorders.To realize the aim and tasks of the research, 145 patients were examined with anxiety disorders, that passed the stationary course of treatment.

Objectives

The purpose of the research was to discover emotional disturbance peculiarities for anxiety disorder patients with different origins of pathological syndromes.

Methods

The basic method was a group psychotherapy with the elements of rational, positive, suggestive and family psychotherapy. In relation to disfunctions of emotional sphere, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was used for the phobic-depressive and anxious-depressed disorders.

Results

Decrease in general level of anxiety and internal anxiety was obtained for most patients. No spontaneous emergence of fear was practically observed. While active interviewing, patients stated that their former worries and fears have lost actuality and apparent emotional colouring, somatic-vegetative correlates of anxious states disappeared. Up to the end of the therapy course, a sense of calmness was attained as a base-line for the background emotional state. Considerable reduction of symptomatic of the depressed circle also took place. Patients’ mood increased, their interests broadened, patients started to feel joy and optimism.

Conclusions

To correct emotional disfunction of patients with episodic paroxismal disorders, generalized anxiety disorders and mixed anxiously depressed disorders, psychotherapeutic correction system is optimal to use, which is built based on stepwise and multimodal principles.
Visuospatial training has positive effect on language abilities in children with Delirium diagnoses and inclusion of delirium-specific
Authors: Kiselev S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

It was shown that children with specific language impairments (SLI) have deficits not only in producing and understanding language but also in visuospatial abilities (Kiselev et al., 2016). We assume that training programs that are aimed to develop the visuospatial abilities can help children with SLI.

Objectives

The goal of this study was to assess the impact of visuospatial training on the language abilities in 6–7 years old children with SLI.

Methods

The participants were 20 children aged 6–7 years with SLI. Children were randomly assigned to the intervention and comparison group. Children from intervention group participated in 8 weeks of visuospatial training. This programme trains the child to do different visuospatial exercises both on motor and cognitive level. This programme is built on the conceptual framework derived from the work of Luria’s theory of restoration of neurocognitive functions (Luria, 1963, 1974). We used the subtests from Luria’s child neuropsychological assessment battery to assess language abilities in children before and after the intervention period.

Results

Analysis of covariance tested the effect of visuospatial training programme on five language subtest from Luria’s child neuropsychological assessment battery. Group differences (p<.05) were found for subtest that assess understanding prepositions that describe the spatial relations between objects. Posttest mean for the intervention group were significantly (p<.05) greater than the control group.

Conclusions

It can be assumed that visuospatial training in children with SLI benefits specific language abilities for understanding sentences with spatial prepositions.
Psychosocial rehabilitation for severe mental illness: A community project adjustable to the needs and resources of the population
Authors: Ramos S. Freitas , Farelo G. , Moura M. , Araújo M. , Carvalho S. , Ferreira F. , Quelhas R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Psychosocial rehabilitation is a challenge in a society with demands unsuitable for those with severe mental illness (SMI). The Mental Health Department of Matosinhos Local Health Unity (MHD-MLHU) has developed a solidarity project aiming to evaluate and elaborate individualized rehabilitative responses with people with SMI, including people from the community motivated for solidarity initiatives.

Objectives

To describe a psychosocial rehabilitation project focused on community integration of people with SMI, considering needs and resources of the population, and to present the individualized rehabilitation plans carried out for people with SMI.

Methods

In January 2019, we began the home evaluation of people with SMI monitored in the MHD-MLHU. To develop solidary based play-occupational groups, we interviewed people from the community and from the common mental pathology outpatient clinic willing to participate.

Results

We present the description and evaluation of the psychosocial responses developed by the project. These responses include recreational-occupational groups, tailored to interests of each person with SMI, and using the community support group built for the purpose. These responses promote face-to-face activities, and enhance the destigmatization of SMI. The constraints resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic led to the creation of digital responses aimed at people with SMI and the community in general.

Conclusions

This experience has revealed the great potential of rehabilitating the community context of people with SMI, rather than just contemplating pre-existing structured responses. The pandemic created specific challenges but made the initiative even more relevant for SMI people and for promoting the mental health of the general population.
Effectiveness of social skills training conducted in a group of subjects with first-episode psychosis
Authors: Brando F. , Giordano G.M. , Bucci P. , Palumbo D. , Piegari G. , Mucci A. , Galderisi S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Cognitive deficits are considered a key feature of schizophrenia due to their substantial influence on the psychosocial outcome of subjects affected by this disorder. Several studies showed that moderate to severe cognitive impairments, including dysfunctions of social cognition, are already present during the early phases of the illness, in subjects with first-episode psychosis (FEPs). Psychosocial interventions, such as social skill training (SST), could therefore be implemented already upon occurrence of the first episode of psychosis to improve the overall functional outcome of schizophrenia, which represents to date an unmet need in the care of these patients.

Objectives

The study aims to evaluate the use of SST to enhance social skills and real-life functioning in FEPs.

Methods

The sample included 7 FEPs (age between 15 and 40). The SST intervention included 30 sessions lasting 2 hours and delivered twice a week. Psychopathology, neurocognition, real life functioning, functional capacity and social cognition were assessed at baseline ad after training. Paired samples t-tests were performed to evaluate the effects of the intervention. All subjects were treated with second generation antipsychotics.

Results

Significant improvements were observed in negative symptoms, social cognition, problem solving skills, as well as in global functioning (all p<0.05). Within real-life functioning, the improvement was greater for the domain of interpersonal relationships.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest that SST might complement pharmacological treatment in FEPs to improve functional outcome in these subjects. Further studies with a higher sample size and a longer follow-up are required in order to confirm the present results.
A model for the management of difficult to treat depression
Authors: Mcallister-Williams H.
Published: February 2022

In this presentation a model for the management of difficult to treat depression (DTD) will be presented based upon a recently published international consensus statement (McAllister-Williams et al. 2020 Journal of Affective Disorders 267:264-282). This model emphasises the goals of: optimal symptom control – remission if possible; optimisation of psychosocial functioning; and optimisation of prophylaxis against relapse/deterioration in mood. Building on these goals, the model follows a number of principles. These include emphasizing the importance of shared decision making and measurement-based care, enhancing engagement and retention in services, self-management strategies and frequent re-assessments, all incorporated in an integrated service pathway. The model itself encompasses eight elements: 1. Optimal symptom control using conventional, guideline recommended, treatments but moving on to treatments beyond guidelines in an appropriate and timely way; 2. Targeting symptoms associated with poor outcomes, e.g. anxiety and pain; 3. Targeting symptoms associated with poor functioning and quality of life such as sleep difficulties, fatigue and cognitive dysfunction; 4. Screening for and managing physical, psychiatric, substance misuse and iatrogenic comorbidities; 5. Optimisation of long-term treatment; 6. Using self-management techniques to empower patients; 7. Using integrated health services to help provide a sense of containment and ensure wide consideration of treatment options; and 8. Establishing regular reviews of the patient’s diagnosis and treatment. Examples of each of these elements will be provided.

Disclosure

In the last 5 years, R. Hamish McAllister-Williams has received fees from American Center for Psychiatry & Neurology United Arab Emirates, British Association for Psychopharmacology, European College of Neuropsychophamracology, International Society for A
Implication of substance use in suicidal or violent behaviours in a first episode psychosis spectrum disorder population : A 45 patients retrospective study
Authors: Bordas R. , Jourdan C. , Basso C. , Laffont E. , Pujol M. , Lamary L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In First Episode Psychosis (FEP), Suicidal Behaviours (SB), Violent Behaviours (VB) and substance use are frequent respectively 10% to 30%, 34.5% and 50% (Pompili et al., 2011), (Tournier et al., 2013). The role of substance use in facilitating SB and VB is described (Large et al., 2011).

Objectives

We aim to evaluate the impact of substance use in FEP patients. Our hypothesis is that substance use is associated with more SB or VB before first admission.

Methods

First admission files of 45 patients diagnosed ICD10 F20 to F29 during the 2013-2018 period were retrospectively studied. SB, VB and substance use (Cannabis, alcohol and opiate/cocaine) before admission were collected. Correlation between SB and VB were tested with cannabis, alcohol, opiate/cocaine use with chi2 Pearson independance test.

Results

The frequencies of suicidal behaviours and violent behaviours were 25 % and 22.7 %. The frequencies of cannabis use, alcohol use, opiate/cocaine use were 56.1 %, 10 % and 16.3 %. A strong significant correlation was found between opiate/cocaine use and violent behaviour, p = 0.011 Chi2 was 6.471 DF 1. No other significant correlations were found.

Conclusions

Suicidal behaviours and violent behaviours are known to be more frequent in psychotic patients with addictive comorbidity. Our french rural hospital retrospective study confirms that violent behaviours in first admission psychotic patients are strongly associated with opiate/cocaine substance use comorbidity.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the lebanese arabic version of the BACS scale (the brief assessment of cognition in schizophrenia) among stable schizophrenic inpatients
Authors: Haddad C. El , Salameh P. , Hallit S. , Obeid S. , Haddad G. , Clément J.-P. , Calvet B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The assessment of cognitive disorders in schizophrenia is becoming a part of clinical and research practice by using batteries that differ widely in their content. The Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) was developed to cover the main cognitive deficits of schizophrenia.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess concurrent validity of the Arabic version of the BACS with a standard neurocognitive battery of tests in Lebanese patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls.

Methods

A sample of 120 stable inpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia and 60 healthy controls received the Arabic version of the BACS in a first session, and a standard battery in a second session.

Results

The mean duration of completion for the BACS was 31.2 ± 5.4 min in patients with schizophrenia. All tests demonstrated significant differences between controls and patients (p<0.01). A principal components analysis demonstrated that a one-factor solution best fits our dataset (64.8% of the variance). A high Cronbach alpha was found (0.85). The BACS composite scores were significantly correlated with the standard battery composite scores in patients (r=0.78, p < 0.001) and healthy controls (r=0.77, p < 0.001). Also, the correlation analysis between the BACS sub-scores and the standard battery sub-scores showed significant results (p < 0.05). The Arabic-BACS demonstrated high ability to discriminate patients with schizophrenia from healthy controls.

Conclusions

The results showed that the Arabic version of the BACS is a useful tool for assessing cognition in patients with schizophrenia and could be used in clinical practice in Lebanon.
Metacognition, symptoms and general functioning in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Daoud M. , Thabet J. Ben , Bouali M. Maalej , Omri S. , Feki R. , Smaoui N. , Zouari L. , Charfi N. , Maalej M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Poorer metacognitive abilities are recognized as strong predictors of social functioning deficits in individuals with schizophrenia.

Objectives

The aim of the current study is to examine metacognitive functioning in people with schizophrenia and to explore correlations between metacognition, symptoms and general functioning.

Methods

It was a cross-sectional study involving outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia and followed in the psychiatry “C” department at Hedi Chaker university Hospital, in Sfax -Tunisia, between may and december 2018. Sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic data were measured using self-reported questionnaires, and metacognition was assessed with the Metacognition Assessment Scale – Abbreviated version (MAS-A). The general functioning was measured with The Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF).

Results

A total of 74 participants participated in the study. The average age was 34.1 ± 11.8 years and the sex-ratio was 1.6. The average score of global assessment of functioning was 49.39±10. Means and standard deviations on MAS scores were as follows: self-reflectivity 4.18 (1.46), understanding of others’ minds 3.20 (1.06), decentration 2.5 (1.8), mastery 2.54 (1.85), and the MAS total scores 12.42 (6.17). The results indicate that poor social functioning is associated with metacognitive difficulties (r=0.27, p<10-3). Greater metacognition was significantly correlated with fewer negative symptoms (r= -0.62, p<10-3), but metacognition was not significantly correlated with positive psychotic symptoms, cognitive disorganisation, excitement or emotional distress

Conclusions

These findings underscore the importance of interventions designed to enhance the patients’ metacognitive capacities, that is, the more proximal capacities linked to poorer social functioning.
Predictors of poor adherence in schizophrenia
Authors: Bouali W. , Omezzine R. Gniwa , Soussia R. Ben , Younes S. , Zarrouk L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that requires long-term treatment. Non-adherence to antipsychotics is common and associated with poor outcomes.

Objectives

Our study is aimed to describe the therapeutic adherence and to identify the factors associated with poor adherence among schizophrenic patients.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted at psychiatry consultation of the university medical center of Mahdia, Tunisia. Data collection occurred between the months of January and March 2018, including patients suffering from schizophrenia. The evaluation of adherence was performed using the MARS scale (Medication Adherence Rating Scale).

Results

In our sample of 131 schizophrenic patients, there is a male predominance (76%), as well as unmarried status (58.7%), unemployed (72%). The rate of non compliance treatment was 73%. Low levels of education, poor insight and polytherapy were associated to poor adherence. Although patients aged more than 40 years, who were married and diagnosed with undifferentiated schizophrenia were good compliant to treatment (p<0.05).

Conclusions

We suggest a proper treatment strategy for each patient based on the identification of non adherence risk factors.
Psychosocial characteristics influence the duration of hospitalization in patients with psychotic disorders
Authors: Velelekou A. , Tsomaka E. , Tsaras K. , Papagiannis D. , Papathanasiou I. , Fradelos E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders are related with prolonged stay in hospital and high cost for treating them. As a consequence, the determination of the factors that affect the duration of hospitalization is essential.

Objectives

The purpose of the study is the determination of the psychosocial characteristics of inpatients in a public psychiatric hospital and their association with the duration of hospitalization.

Methods

A total of 103 patients with a diagnosis of Schizophrenia (according to ICD-10) participated in the study. The socio demographic characteristics were recorded and the following psychometric tools were used: NEO- Five Factor Inventory, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC25), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Global Assessment of Functioning scale (GAF).All instruments were adapted to greek population. All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.25.

Results

The median length of hospital stay was 40,7 days. The number of previous admissions (p=0,010), the type of admission (compulsory or voluntary) (p=0,017), the physical restrain (p=0,043), the duration of restrain (p=0,002) as well as the existence of social support networks and in particular social support from friends (p=0,018), seem to affect the duration of hospitalization.

Conclusions

The present study underlines the signification of the psychosocial factors that could contribute to the prediction of longer hospitals stays, the planning of appropriate interventions and as a result the reduction of hospital costs.