bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stigma and Discrimination During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Marchean H. , Mihai A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

A frequently discussed topic today, stigma and/or discrimination are social phenomena that, in the broader context of medical discourse and especially in the current epidemiological situation, Covid-19 pandemic, appear and need a detailed examination

Objectives

This study aims are to examine the literature and to present the aforementioned phenomena, comparing them with the Link & Phelan stigma model and offering pros and cons for their congruence with the model.

Methods

Literature analysis with searching words: stigma, discrimination, Covid-19, medical and especially psychiatric pathology, in Pubmed and Google scholar engine.

Results

The studied 32 articles provided 4 stigmatized subgroups in the social context of the pandemic: that of patients and medical staff, that of comorbidities sufferers, that of stigmatized ethnic groups, and that of stigmatized races. These groups, stigmatized directly or by overlapping with the “actual” group, were studied in the most relevant PubMed articles, and evidence for the congruence of their stigma with the model was presented in this review.

Conclusions

This work could also serve as a starting point for further study on combating stigma, improving the lives of our patients, colleagues affected by occupational exposure, and, finally, society at large

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Association between polygenic risk scores for psychiatric disorders and social cognition: a systematic review
Authors: Martinez M. , Fichera C. , Fusar-Poli L. , Rodolico A. , Guloksuz S. , Aguglia E. , Signorelli M.S.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Social cognition refers to a complex set of mental abilities that support the construction of adequate social competence and adaptation. Impairments in social cognition can be found in several psychiatric disorders, particularly in psychoses. Polygenic Risk Scores (PRSs) represent single metrics of molecular genetic risk and are a predictor of the genetic susceptibility to diseases, although they explain only a small part of the risk.

Objectives

To explore the association between PRS for psychiatric disorders and social cognition.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search in PubMed and Scopus according to the PRISMA guidelines up to August 2021. We included papers evaluating PRS and social cognition with psychometric scales. Articles concerning single-nucleotide polymorphisms and biological measures of social cognition (e.g., neuroimaging, peripheral biomarkers) were excluded.

Results

We initially retrieved 150 articles. After removing duplicates, we screened 133 titles and abstracts and preliminary selected 19 papers. Participants recruited in the papers of interest were either people with schizophrenia, ASD or ADHD, their family members or healthy subjects. Articles evaluated the association between different psychometrical measures of social cognition and PRS for schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD.

Conclusions

Literature regarding the association between PRS for psychiatric disorders and social cognition is heterogeneous in terms of populations, genetic risk evaluation, and outcome tools. Given the critical role played by social cognition in the onset and progression of mental disorders and its association with real-world functioning, future research should try to disentangle the complex genetic basis of this domain.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Hope-inspiring competence as a high-quality mental health nursing care in recovery-oriented practice
Authors: Laranjeira C. , Querido A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Hope should be fostered by providing information to help service users develop an understanding of psychological difficulties and encourage an active role in their self-care. This might include providing an open caring environment, nurse presence, comfort/pain relief, and involving patients in their care.

Objectives

To analyze the critical importance of hope-inspiring competence as a high-quality mental health nursing care in recovery-oriented practice.

Methods

This was a reflective and discursive study based on experiential aspects of hope in mental health recovery.

Results

Hope and hopelessness are important determinants of mental health. Hope has a positive influence on people’s mental health, on increasing comfort and satisfaction with life and on reducing negative emotions and suicide, decreasing the predisposition to addiction, and preventing family exhaustion, with a predictive effect on subjective well-being and protection of mental health. The concept of hope-inspiring competence is introduced to denote a relatively high level of the Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses ability to instil and maintain hope for recovery in people with mental health disorders.

Conclusions

The evidence seems to point to the importance of incorporating hope in collaborative strategies to promote mental health and manage mental health disorders. Despite this recognition of the role of the specialist nurse in psychiatric-mental health in training for hope, the way it develops in the context of specialized practice lacks evidence and visibility. A vision of recovery from mental illness exists, and hope, trust and self-determination should be incorporated into all treatment models.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Identity status as a factor of professional self-determination in adolescence
Authors: Molchanov S. , Markina O. , Karabanova O. , Kirsanov K. , Dzhepparova L L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The process of professional self-determination in adolescence is a key developmental task, the successful resolution of which determines the psychological health and well-being. Professional self-determination includes 1) the formation of a professional identity on the base of exploration the possibilities of professional choice, 2) making a decision for professional future

Objectives

1) to study the features of a personal professional perspective in adolescence; 2) to reveal status of identity in the field of professional self-determination; 3) to study the relationship between the status of identity and the personal professional perspective.

Methods

The modified Personal Professional Perspective technique (N.S.Pryazhnikov) and the interview to determine status identity in the professional field (D.Marsia) were used. The study involved 144 respondents aged 15 to 17 years.

Results

The heterochronicity of the formation of the components of the personal professional perspective (PPP) among adolescents is revealed. The connection of the high status of identity in the professional sphere with the formation of PPP has been proved. The formation of all components of the PPP among adolescents with the status of a moratorium and status of achieved identity is higher than in group with diffusion status (U criterion, p = 0.00).

Conclusions

The high status of identity in the professional sphere (moratorium and achieved identity) is associated with a high level of formation of a personal professional perspective.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
BIG LITTLE THIEFS - Kleptomania Treatment
Authors: Mouta S. , Correia J. , Fonseca Vaz I. , Freitas Ramos S. , Jesus B. , Fontes S.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Kleptomania is characterized by recurrent failure to resist the impulse to steal items of little value despite the ego-dystonic impulse and awareness of the wrongfulness of the act. Its prevalence is considered to be 0.6–0.8% in the general population and it is mostly comorbid with other psychiatric disorders. Kleptomania is a disabling disorder since patients suffer from emotional distress and impaired functioning.

Objectives

Although there is no cure, treatment may help prevent Kleptomania worsening and its negative consequences. We propose a review of the therapeutic approach to this disease.

Methods

Non-systematic literature review.

Results

No effective treatment is available for Kleptomania. Better efficacy can be achieved by combining psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. Different treatment interventions can be selected based on clinical similarities to other disorders, co-occurring conditions or behavioral core features. Patients with significant mood symptoms may benefit from mood stabilizers or antidepressants. For patients with shoplift cravings and/or family history of substance use disorders, Naltrexone may reduce symptoms. Stimulants may be useful for Kleptomania bassociated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder impulsivity. Benzodiazepines are effective in tension relief when used as adjuvants, at the beginning of treatment. Electroconvulsive therapy should be reserved for patients with treatment-resistant symptoms and comorbid depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has replaced Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic psychotherapies.

Conclusions

Treatment helps decrease disruption to the person’s life, preventing the intense shame, legal, social, family, and occupational repercussions of Kleptomania. Although pharmaceutical and psychosocial interventions are available, we still lack specific treatments for Kleptomania.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychological Symptoms in Family of Death Patients with infectious diseases
Authors: Lacatusu G. , Sapaniuc C. , Manciuc D.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Looking back into history, infectious diseases played an important role in human history being responsible, in terms of pathologies, for more deaths than any other disease.

Objectives

Considering that infectious diseases have a high rate of transmissibility, with an acute debut and sometimes with a fast evolution to exitus, the impact of the news on families of the departed patient diagnosed with an infectious disease can come as a shock. We conducted a literature review regarding the the psychological symptoms, moruning and staging of processing a loss using the international database.

Methods

We conducted a literature review regarding the the psychological symptoms, moruning and staging of processing a loss using the international database.

Results

Processing the unexpected death of a family member needs not only the implication of the physician but also the counseling of a specialized psychologist which can help the families through all stages of loss and grief.

Conclusions

For the family of deceased patients in hospitals, mourning and depression are a reality that the psychologist and the attending physician face every day. The team of psychologists and medical doctors are facing cases of severe shock and depression in parents, varying with the age of the child and of the young adult, in cases with an acute or severe disease leading to death.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Ludovico’s Technique: The Literary Depiction of Aversion Therapy in ‘A Clockwork Orange’
Authors: Wellington J. , Wellington A. , Abbasy M. , Bhagia M. , Myles D. , Bhure V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Anthony Burgess’ novel ‘Clockwork Orange’ identifies the topical debates surrounding the use of aversion therapy (or aversive conditioning) as an effective treatment for addictive behaviours. Widely popularised in literature as ‘Ludovico’s Technique’, Burgess attempts to credit the misunderstanding and dramatization of its effects when the main protagonist is released from a prison sentence after undergoing this treatment.

Objectives

We aimed to highlight the depictions of aversion therapy in modern popular literature.

Methods

A narrative review of the current literature concerning aversion therapy and Anthony Burgess’s novel ‘A Clockwork Orange’ was conducted. Emphasis on the misinterpretation of aversive therapies was noted.

Results

Since the introduction of pharmacological alternatives and additional forms of psychological therapies, there has been a decline in the use of aversion therapy in recent decades. However, it is still effective when conceding the conditioning process. Likewise, its predecessor’ visual imagery’ is believed to be a more acceptable and effective form.

Conclusions

The depiction of aversion therapy in literature and media has played a role in shaping societal views on aversive conditioning techniques and the degree to which they are deemed acceptable forms of treatment. The “Ludovico Technique” featured in the novel ‘A Clockwork Orange’ and its film adaptation is arguably the most salient depiction of aversion therapy in popular culture.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis or Psychiatric disorder?
Authors: Freitas B. , Vasconcelos M.D.C. , Ramalheira F. , Terêncio D. , Moreira C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis commonly begins with a prodromal phase characterized by flu-like symptoms, subsequently the patients experience a rapid deterioration with psychiatric symptoms that may include anxiety, irritability, insomnia, paranoia, aggression, auditory or visual hallucinations, sexual disinhibition, mania, cognitive disorder, and psychosis; seizures; motor and autonomic dysfunction. The triggers of the disorder comprise viral infections, tumors, and other unknown factors. Taking in count the prominence of psychiatric symptoms, it is relevant to rise the question whether patients with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis are being misdiagnosed with psychiatric disorders.

Objectives

Non-systematic literature review of the relationship between anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis and psychiatric disorders.

Methods

From the review performed, 2 studies stand out: In one study, 459 serum samples for NMDA receptor antibodies were evaluated. The analysis compared samples from patients diagnosed with schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and borderline personality disorder with nonpsychiatric controls. In another study, serum was obtained prospectively from a cohort (n = 46) of patients at first presentation of psychosis and NMDA receptor antibodies were measured.

Results

In the first study, the authors found that 9.9%, 2.8%, and 0% of patients with schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and borderline personality disorder, respectively, were antibody positive. In the second study, it was found that 7% of the patients were serum NMDA receptor antibody positive.

Conclusions

It is unclear yet if patients with primary psychotic disorders have higher rates of pathogenic NMDA receptor antibodies. More evidence is needed to study this relationship.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychosis as alzheimer disease debut: a case report
Authors: Vilella Martín C. , García Vázquez P. , Barrera García Y. , Fernández Perea P. , Heredero Sanz M.Á. , Serrano García A. , Gómez Martínez R. , Franch Pato C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Psychosis in Alzheimer’s disease has an incidence of ˜ 10% per year. Recent work has focused on the presence of psychosis in people with mild cognitive impairment, as a risk factor for the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Objectives

To Study a case of Alzheimer’s disease presenting psychotic symptoms

Methods

Retrospective review of clinical records and complementary test, including psychiatry, electrophysiology and neurology.

Results

A 40-year-old goes to the emergency room due to hetero-aggression at home. He says that his father steals his money and prostitues have been hired in his house. The patient is oriented, partially collaborative and approachable. Psychomotor restlessness is observed. He has self-referral delusions, auditory hallucinations and insomnia. Provisional diagnosis of acute psychotic episode made and low dose risperidone was prescribed. During his stay on the hospital Ward, sedation, recent memory alterations, spatio-temporal disorientation lack of initiative and disorganized behaviors appear. Risperidone is withdrawn and complementary test are performed. Imaging tests show temporal and frontal atrophy. Increased TAU protein and low levels of amyloid in CSF are found. Brain biopsy is +. His mother died of Alzheimer’s disease with 36 years-old and another affected brother with 42 yeras-old. The definitive diagnosis is Alzheimer’s disease and genetic studies are currently being carried out.

Conclusions

Alzheimer’s disease can debut with psychosis. It is important to investigate family history of patients who begin with memory loss in the context of psychosis

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Protective role of glutathione in oxidative stress caused by cadmium and copper
Authors: Jovanovic Mirkovic J. , Kocic G. , Jurinjak Z. , Alexopoulos C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Cadmium is defined as one of the leading toxic industrial pollutants (Valko i sar., 2005). Although some products containing cadmium can be recycled, much of the pollution with this metal is the result of inadequate disposal and uncontrolled incineration of cadmium-containing waste (Jarup, 2003). Copper particles are released into the atmosphere from copper smelters and ore processing facilities, as well as from anthropogenic sources (use of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides). Oxidative stress occurs due to increased production of reactive oxygen species (Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease) or reduced ability of cells to neutralize it through their internal antioxidants (eg mutation of the superoxide dismutase gene in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

Objectives

The aim of this research was to examine the protective role of supplement, GSH, S-donor ligand, and in conditions of acute and chronic intoxication with sublethal doses of cadmium-II-chloride and copper II sulfate.

Methods

After medial laparotomy albino rates Wistar soy, a 10% homogenate of brain tissue was made in an appropriate medium and an analysis of acid and alkaline DNase activity was performed (Kocić i sar., 2004; Kocić i sar., 1998).

Results

This experiment demonstrated the beneficial role of GSH supplement that exhibit antioxidant character in preventing and reducing the adverse effects of acute and chronic cadmium and copper intoxication.

Conclusions

Antioxidants prevent the formation of oxidative stress in the cell by reducing and stopping DNA damage and degradation, and thus represent potential scavengers of free radicals.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The effects of compassion and fears of compassion on mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A multinational study across 21 countries
Authors: Matos M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic is having an unprecedented detrimental impact on mental health in people around the world. It is therefore important to examine factors that may buffer or heighten the risk of mental health problems in this context.

Objectives

This study explores the buffering effects of different flows of compassion (for self, for others, from others) and the magnifying effects of fears of compassion on the impact of perceived threat of COVID-19 on depression, anxiety and stress, and social safeness.

Methods

4057 adult participants collected from the general community population across 21 countries from Europe, Middle East, North America, South America, Asia and Oceania, completed self-report measures of perceived threat of COVID-19, compassion, fears of compassion, depression, anxiety, stress, and social safeness.

Results

Self-compassion moderated the impact of perceived threat of COVID-19 on depression, anxiety and stress, whereas compassion from others moderated the effects of fears of COVID-19 on social safeness. Fears of compassion moderated the impact of perceived threat of COVID-19 on psychological distress. Only fears of compassion from others moderated the effects of fears of COVID-19 on social safeness. These effects were consistent across countries.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the universal protective role of compassion, in particular self-compassion and compassion from others, in promoting resilience by buffering against the harmful effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and social safeness. Furthermore, our results reveal that fears of compassion have a magnifying effect on the damaging impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and social safeness.

Disclosure

I wasn’t able to add the full list of authors above. Please add the full list as described below.
The role of substance use in the risk of not getting employed among young people: Prospective findings from the CONSTANCES cohort
Authors: El Haddad R. , Matta J. , Lemogne C. , Melchior M. , Zins M. , Airagnes G.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

It remains unclear whether substance use in youth could be associated with a lower likelihood of accessing employment.

Objectives

To examine prospectively associations between substance use and the risk of not getting employed among young people.

Methods

From the French population-based CONSTANCES cohort, 2,873 students who never worked were included between 2012 and 2018 and followed-up for 2.7 years in average. Generalized estimating equations computed the odds of being unemployed versus employed according to substance use at baseline controlling for sociodemographic factors and depressive state. Tobacco use (smoking status and number of cigarettes), cannabis use frequency, and at-risk alcohol use according to the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (total score >7) were introduced separately in the models.

Results

Tobacco use wasn’t significantly associated with employment. Cannabis use at least weekly, and at-risk alcohol use, were associated with increased odds of being unemployed (OR=1.85, 95%CI(1.29, 2.64)) and OR=1.34, 95%CI(1.04, 1.71)), respectively. Additional analyses on sub-scores of alcohol use suggested that the association was mainly driven by alcohol dependence rather than frequency of use.

Conclusions

Public health campaigns must target youth by advising them of the detrimental roles of regular cannabis use and at-risk alcohol use and their lower chances of getting employed.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Sociodemographic characteristics and correlates of Delta-8 THC use in US adults
Authors: Livne O.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Recent reports suggest that Delta-8 THC use has surged during the past year. Although Delta-8 THC is believed to have relatively low psychoactive potency, its effects are not well characterized and the associated individual and public health risks are unknown.

Objectives

Identify patterns of Delta-8 THC use among US adult cannabis users and examine associations with sociodemographic characteristics and cannabis use-related variables.

Methods

We surveyed 4,349 US adult cannabis users recruited via online advertisements. We calculated frequencies of sociodemographic characteristics in past 30-day Delta-8 THC users. Odds ratios were used to indicate associations between sociodemographic characteristics and past 30-day Delta-8 THC use.

Results

Respondents aged 45–64 years were significantly more likely than other age groups to have used Delta-8 THC during the past 30 days (odds ratio=1.48, 95% CI 1.04, 2.11). Fifty-eight percent of the sample had heard of Delta-8 THC, 66.8% of which had first heard of it during the last year and 37.1% first heard of it via social media. The most common methods of consumption were vaping concentrates and edibles. We identified motivations for use of Delta-8 THC that potentially indicate a preference for legal options and/or a perception that Delta-8 THC has medical benefits.

Conclusions

This study provides a snapshot of patterns of Delta-8 THC use among US adult cannabis users. Further investigation of the perceived medical benefits of Delta-8 THC, the role of social media in promoting its use, and the effectiveness of restrictions on Delta-8 THC products would provide further information to guide public health policy regarding Delta-8
THC.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Use of ADHD Medication Among Danish Children and Adolescents from 2010-2020 - A Nationwide Study
Authors: Stoltz-Andersen M. , Wesselhoeft R. , Ernst M. , Rasmussen L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

To ensure rational drug use, there is a need to continuously monitor the use of ADHD medication among children and adolescents.

Objectives

To describe the use of ADHD medication among Danish children and adolescents from 2010-2020.

Methods

Using the Danish national healthcare registries, we extracted data on filled prescriptions of ADHD medication (including methylphenidate, atomoxetine, guanfacine, dexamphetamine, and lisdexamphetamine) among children (age 6-12 years) and adolescents (age 13-17 years) between 2010-2020. We examined the annual incidence rate and prevalence proportion of ADHD drug use, and the proportion of children and adolescents having an ADHD diagnosis when initiating ADHD medication.

Results

From 2010-2020, the incidence followed a u-shaped trend with an incidence rate of 4.9/1,000 children and 4.4/1,000 adolescents in 2010, decreasing to 3.2/1,000 children and 3.0/1,000 adolescents in 2013, and rising to 4.9/1,000 children and 4.8/1,000 adolescents in 2020. The prevalence for children showed a similar trend, shifting from 17/1,000 in 2010, to 15/1,000 in 2016, and peaking at 19/1,000 children in 2020. However, among adolescents the prevalence increased steadily from 19/1,000 in 2010 to 29/1,000 in 2020. 67% of children and 53% of adolescents initiating ADHD medication had an ADHD diagnosis.

Conclusions

After an initial decline in incidence rates of ADHD medication use among Danish children and adolescents, there has been a rise in use the last five years. The same trend applied for the prevalence among children, whereas the prevalence among adolescents increased steadily over the entire period. More than half of children and adolescents initiating ADHD medication were diagnosed with ADHD.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Use of hypnotic drugs among Scandinavian children, adolescents, and young adults
Authors: Wesselhøft R. , Rasmussen L. , Jensen P. , Jennum P. , Skurtveit S. , Hartz I. , Reutfors J. , Damkier P. , Bliddal M. , Pottegård A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Hypnotic drug use in children and adolescents is widely debated.

Objectives

To describe use of hypnotic drugs (melatonin, z-drugs and sedating antihistamines) among 5-24-year-old Scandinavians during 2012 to 2018.

Methods

Aggregate-level data from public data sources in Sweden, Norway and Denmark. We calculated annual prevalence (users/1000 inhabitants) stratified by sex, age group and country. Quantity of use (Defined Daily Dose (DDD)/user/day) was estimated for Norway and Denmark.

Results

Melatonin was most frequently used, with an increase from 2012 to 2018 in all countries. Sweden presented the highest rise (7 to 25/1,000) compared to Denmark (6 to 12/1,000) and Norway (10 to 20/1,000). The increase was strongest for females and 15-24-year-olds. Melatonin use was twice as common for males under age 15 years, and slightly more common for females thereafter. The annual prevalence of sedating antihistamine use doubled from 7 to 13/1,000 in Sweden, whereas it was more stable in Norway and Denmark, reaching 8/1,000 and 3/1,000, respectively. Z-drug use decreased in all countries, lowering to 4/1,000 in Sweden and Norway in 2018 and 2/1,000 in Denmark. The quantity of hypnotic use in Norway and Denmark was 1 DDD/user/day for melatonin, as compared to 0.1-0.3 for z-drugs and antihistamines.

Conclusions

There is an increasing use of melatonin and sedating antihistamines among Scandinavian children, adolescents and young adults. The increase is more pronounced in Sweden compared to Norway and Denmark. This Scandinavian discrepancy could reflect variation in frequency of sleep problems or national variation in clinical practice or health care access.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Oxytocin as a peripheral biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Natale A. , Fusar-Poli L. , Sturiale S. , Concerto C. , Aguglia A. , Amerio A. , Serafini G. , Amore M. , Aguglia E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of life-long neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impairments in social communication and by the presence of restricted interests or repetitive behaviors. Several genetic, biological, and psychosocial mechanisms seem to play a role in the etiopathogenesis of this complex condition. Preclinical models have shown a potential role of oxytocin (OT), a peptide involved in a complex range of behaviors, including those related to social interaction. Therefore, it has been hypothesized that OT levels may be decreased in autistic people.

Objectives

To compare the levels of peripheral OT in autistic people vs neurotypical controls.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search up to December 2020 according to PRISMA guidelines. Final inclusion was based on the following criteria: (1) Participants: individuals of any age diagnosed with ASD; (2) Controls: neurotypical subjects; (3) Outcome: OT levels, either in saliva, serum, or plasma; (4) Study design: case-control. Meta-analyses are ongoing.

Results

We finally included 21 papers published between 1998 and 2020, of which one recruited adult participants. Fifteen studies measured OT levels in plasma, 4 in saliva, and 2 in serum. Preliminary meta-analyses on 10 studies showed that peripheral OT levels in autistic individuals are reduced compared to neurotypical controls, with sex differences.

Conclusions

Our preliminary findings show that peripheral OT might represent a potential biomarker for ASD. Future well-conducted case-control studies with a detailed phenotypical characterization of samples are needed to understand the role of OT deficits in specific subgroups.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Bipolar disorder correlated to shorter remission latency and borderline personality disorder symptom severity to longer in depression – a prospective cohort study of major depressive patients
Authors: Söderholm J. , Socada L. , Rosenström T. , Ekelund J. , Isometsä E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Major depressive episodes (MDE) occur in major depressive (MDD) and bipolar disorders (BD), and are frequently complicated by borderline personality disorder (BPD). Mixed affective symptomatology is a hallmark of BD, and affective lability of BPD; both may markedly influence illness course. However, direct comparisons of outcome of depression in MDD, BD and BPD are scarce.

Objectives

To investigate course of illness and outcome of depression in MDD, bipolar and borderline patients.

Methods

In this six-month, prospective cohort study of secondary-level psychiatric MDE patients (n = 95), after initial assessment, the patients (N = 95) completed biweekly online assessments of mood symptoms. We divided the follow up period into qualitatively different mood state periods based on multiple prospective information sources. We examined mixed affective symptoms and borderline symptom severity dimensionally. Outcomes assessed included clinical course, time to first full symptomatic remission, and factors predicting these.

Results

Remission rates according to DSM-5 were similar in MDD, MDE/BD and MDE/BPD patients. Bipolar patients experienced more shorter qualitatively distinct mood state periods during follow-up than the others. Bipolar disorder was associated with shorter (HR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.27–4.67, see fig. 1) and dimensionally assessed BPD severity with longer time to first remission (HR = 0.95 per point., CI = 0.91–1.00).

Conclusions

Course of illness differs between the three depressive groups in the medium term. Bipolar depressive patients have the most alternating course and the shortest time to first remission. Dimensionally assessed severity of BPD may be prognostic of longer depressive remission latency.

Disclosure

I am employed by a psychiatric treatment provider, treating e.g. patients suffering from depression, bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder.
E-health treatments for Dual Disorders on pregnancy
Authors: Carmona Camacho R. , Lopez Carpintero N. , Caro-Cañizares I. , Albarracin García L. , Baca Garcia E. , Sanchez Alonso M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Dual pathology during pregnancy, described as the co-occurrence of substance use and mental health problems, is one of the leading preventable causes of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity; however, effective and accessible treatments are lacking.

Objectives

As part of the WOMAP(Woman Mental Health and Addictions on Pregnancy) initiative, our study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an e-health-based psychotherapeutic program compared to enhanced usual care.

Methods

This effectiveness clinical trial was conducted between 2016-2020 in 5 hospitals in the Madrid (Spain) metropolitan area. 2014 pregnant women under 26 weeks of pregnancy were screened. Eligible participants(n=120) were those who screened positive for co-occurring symptoms (AC-OK screener) and were not receiving specialized behavioral treatment. Participants were assessed in depth at baseline, 2,4,8 and 12 months(PHQ-9;GAD-7;PCL-5;AUDIT;DAST;Fagerström) and randomized to the usual care control group(n=38) or to two groups of a 10-session pregnancy-adapted psychotherapeutic program, one delivered by App/internet(n=41) and one by telephone(n=41). Intent-to-treat analyses assessed effectiveness.

Results

Statistically significant effects of the intervention were found for mental health symptoms in the telephone group as compared to the control and App/internet groups, with an improvement effect starting earlier (2 months) and lasting longer (figures 1-3). Regarding substance use, due to the lack of other substances consumption, only smoking and alcohol cessation rates were analyzed. Patients in the App/internet and telephone groups discontinued significantly more, earlier and for a longer period compared to the control group(figures 4-5).

Conclusions

E-health psychotherapeutic programs could benefit pregnant women with dual disorders. An App/internet implementation could only be useful if focused solely on substances.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of self-report screening instruments for common mental disorders in Arabic-speaking adults
Authors: De Graaff A. , Cuijpers P. , Leeflang M. , Sferra I. , Uppendahl J. , Sijbrandij M. , De Vries R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Self-report questionnaires to screen for symptoms of common mental disorders (CMDs) are commonly used as inexpensive, easy-to-administer tools in research and clinical practice. However, their validity to detect the presence of any CMD across cultures and languages is unclear. Psychometrically sound and brief case-finding instruments are vital for the identification of individuals with mental health needs. With the increasing number of Arabic-speaking refugees in Europe, we aim to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of Arabic-language screening instruments.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review/meta-analysis is to synthesize the diagnostic accuracy of self-report questionnaires to detect depression, anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Arabic-speaking populations.

Methods

Five databases were searched (inception-January 2021) (PROSPERO: CRD42018070645) for studies on the diagnostic accuracy of brief questionnaires in Arabic-speaking populations, with a clinical interview as reference standard. Data on sensitivity/specificity were extracted/calculated. Multi-threshold meta-analyses were performed (R diagmeta package). Study quality was assessed using QUADAS-2.

Results

We included 32 studies (N=4042 participants) reporting on questionnaires targeting depression/anxiety (14 questionnaires), distress (2 questionnaires), and PTSD (1 questionnaire). Optimal thresholds were identified for the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS; cut-off 11, sensitivity 76.9%, specificity 85.1%), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) anxiety subscale (cut-off 7, sensitivity 81.9%, specificity 87.6%), depression subscale (cut-off 6, sensitivity 73.0%, specificity 88.6%), and Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20; cut-off 8, sensitivity 86.0%, specificity 83.9%).

Conclusions

We present optimal thresholds that can be used by clinicians and researchers for the EPDS, HADS and SRQ-20. More research on Arabic-language questionnaires, especially those targeting PTSD, is needed.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
DNA methylation may mediate psychotropic drug-induced metabolic side effects: results from a 1-month observational study
Authors: Dubath C. , Porcu E. , Delacrétaz A. , Grosu C. , Laaboub N. , Piras M. , Von Gunten A. , Conus P. , Von Plessen K. , Kutalik Z. , Eap C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Metabolic side effects of psychotropic medications are a major drawback to patients’ effective treatment. Among the mechanisms underlying their development, DNA methylation may be involved.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to estimate DNA methylation changes occurring secondary to psychotropic treatment and evaluate associations between 1-month metabolic changes and baseline DNA methylation or 1-month DNA methylation changes, using an epigenome-wide approach.

Methods

Seventy-nine psychiatric patients recruited as part of PsyMetab study, who started a treatment with either an antipsychotic, a mood stabilizer or mirtazapine were selected. Epigenome-wide DNA methylation was measured using the Illumina Methylation EPIC BeadChip at baseline and after one month of treatment.

Results

A global methylation increase was observed after 1 month of treatment, which was more pronounced in patients whose weight remained stable (i.e., <2.5% weight increase). Epigenome-wide significant methylation changes were observed at 52 loci in the whole cohort and at one site, namely cg12209987, located in an intergenic region within an enhancer, specifically in patients who underwent important early weight gain (i.e., ≥5% weight increase) during the same period of treatment (p<5*10-8). Multivariable analysis confirmed an association between an increase in methylation at this locus and weight gain in the whole cohort (p=0.004). Epigenome-wide association analyses failed to identify any significant link between other metabolic changes (e.g. glucose or lipid levels) and methylation data.

Conclusions

These findings give new insight into the mechanisms of psychotropic drug-induced weight gain. With improved understanding of the metabolic side effects, the use of precision medicine with epigenetics may become possible

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
NeuroBlu: a natural language processing (NLP) electronic health record (EHR) data analytic tool to generate real-world evidence in mental healthcare
Authors: Patel R. , Wee S.N. , Ramaswamy R. , Thadani S. , Guruswamy G. , Garg R. , Calvanese N. , Valko M. , Rush A. , Rentería M. , Sarkar J. , Kollins S.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

EHRs contain a rich source of real-world data that can support evidence generation to better understand mental disorders and improve treatment outcomes. However, EHR datasets are complex and include unstructured free text data that are time consuming to manually review and analyse. We present NeuroBlu, a secure, cloud-based analytic tool that includes bespoke NLP software to enable users to analyse large volumes of EHR data to generate real-world evidence in mental healthcare.

Objectives

(i) To assemble a large mental health EHR dataset in a secure, cloud-based environment.

(ii) To apply NLP software to extract data on clinical features as part of the Mental State Examination (MSE).

(iii) To analyse the distribution of NLP-derived MSE features by psychiatric diagnosis.

Methods

EHR data from 25 U.S. mental healthcare providers were de-identified and transformed into a common data model. NLP models were developed to extract 241 MSE features using a deep learning, long short-term memory (LSTM) approach. The NeuroBlu tool (https://www.neuroblu.ai/) was used to analyse the associations of MSE features in 543,849 patients.

Results

The figure below illustrates the percentage of patients in each diagnostic category with at least one recorded MSE feature.

Conclusions

Delusions and hallucinations were more likely to be recorded in people with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, and cognitive features were more likely to be recorded in people with dementia. However, mood symptoms were frequently recorded across all diagnoses illustrating their importance as a transdiagnostic clinical feature. NLP-derived clinical information could enhance the potential of EHR data to generate real-world evidence in mental healthcare.

Disclosure

This study was funded in full by Holmusk.
Understanding the value and impacts of informal care for people living with poor mental health
Authors: Saunders J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Our survey of more than 700 caregivers across Europe and Canada highlights the tremendous and too often hidden value of caregiving. In short informal carers are fundamental to the functioning of any health and social care system; it is critical to therefore to invest in measures to support these caregivers and identify potential risk factors that might lead to a breakdown in caregiving support.

Objectives

To identify the importance of family care in the context of modern community mental health services.

Methods

Survey questionaire and interview of family members. A survey was developed in consultation with EUFAMI.

Results

The average length of the caring week exceeds the length of the working week On average informal carers provide more than 43 hours of care every week, well in excess of the average working week.

Conclusions

Family care needs to be recognised as a significant part of the overall care package in differenct countries. Govenments need to acknowledge the real cost of care. In our report we have highlighted that the average caring week is much longer than the working week, and that this is over 60 hours per week for carers who live with the person that the care for. We have highlighted major detrimental effects on carer quality of life, as well as high levels of loneliness. We have also noted that more than a quarter of all carers have a depression or anxiety disorder. We have seen wider adverse impacts on potential career and education prospects as well as financial worries.

Disclosure

This survey and report were possible thanks to the sponsorship of Ferrer Internacional S.A, Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Lundbeck A/S and Otsuka Pharmaceutical Europe Ltd. The sponsors did not have any influence over the content
The Success of Headucate: The Student-Led Mental Health Society
Authors: Selwyn V. , Beezhold J. , Gilmore R. , Howard R. , Bartolome I. , Henderson N.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Headucate: University of East Anglia, a university student-led society, was founded almost 10 years ago by medical students to promote mental health education and raise awareness and funds for mental health causes.

Objectives

Headucate aims to spread mental health awareness and reduce stigma by working with schools, universities, other societies and charities internationally.

Methods

Headucate delivers workshops for children aged 4-18 in primary and secondary schools, community and youth groups and university students. These sessions were delivered in-person pre-COVID and online as interactive webinars since 2020, to spark discussion around mental health, and provide information about the variety of supports available for young people.

Results

In the past decade, Headucate UEA has grown to become one of UEA’s largest student-led groups boasting over 175 members in 2020-2021 from all courses. Within the online world, Headucate’s events have reached worldwide. The initiative has received national recognition, won national student awards and has expanded to set up three further Headucate branches nationwide. Outreach has accelerated and the school workshops reached over 1,000 students in the past year.

Conclusions

Headucate has grown from strength to strength and has plans to continue to develop, with passionate student drivers behind the project. Expansion of the project could include a national mental health university directory, bringing together like-minded mental health advocate students around the country and creating new Headucate branches across the country. To further develop, Headucate could expand outreach to the elderly community as discussed by previous committee.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The role of subclinical depressive symptomatology during the prenatal period in cortisol rhythm alterations and postpartum depression risk
Authors: Castro Quintas Á. , Daura-Corral M. , Eixarch E. , Crispi F. , De La Fuente Tomas L. , Rocavert Barranco M. , Miguel Valero A. , Marques Feixa L. , Palma Gudiel H. , Garcia-Portilla M.P. , Fañanas L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Cortisol, the hormonal endpoint of Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal (HPA) axis, coordinates the body response in front of daily stressful situations. Disturbances in cortisol circadian rhythm have been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression and neurodevelopment lasting consequences. Although pregnancy entails a progressively increase in cortisol levels, the consequences of subclinical depression traits during pregnancy in cortisol circadian rhythm remains unclear.

Objectives

To analyze the impact of prenatal subclinical depressive symptomatology in cortisol circadian rhythm through pregnancy and its relevance for postpartum depression risk.

Methods

A cohort of 112 healthy pregnant women (Mean age±SD=32.32±4.37) of the general population was followed throughout their first pregnancy and first two months of postpartum period. Diurnal salivary cortisol curve (four measures) was obtained for every trimester; the Area Under the Curve with respect to the ground (AUCg) and with respect to the increase (AUCi) were used as measures of basal HPA axis functioning. Depressive symptomatology was assessed every pregnancy trimester and postpartum period following EPDS criteria. All the analyses were adjusted for maternal age, weight, ethnicity and socioeconomic status and sample collection’s time.

Results

Prenatal subclinical depressive symptomatology (EPDS>10) was associated with a blunted cortisol rhythm during first trimester (F= 3.913,p=.011) but not during second (F=2.629, p=056) or third trimesters (F=.411,p=.724). Furthermore, a logistic regression model showed a positive association between Prenatal subclinical depressive symptomatology and the risk of postpartum depression (χ2=13.8, p<.001,OR=9.6; 95%CI 2.5–35.5).

Conclusions

Women with subclinical depressive symptomatology in early pregnancy had alterations in cortisol circadian rhythmicity and a higher risk of postpartum depression.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.