bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex and pathological personality traits: measurement invariance and comparisons
Authors: Osório F. D. L. , Barchi-Ferreira A. M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5) is an instrument that aims to assess pathological personality traits according to the alternative model proposed by the DSM-5. To validate the comparison of an instrument’s scores between different groups, it is necessary that the measure’s invariance be attested, in order to guarantee that the same underlying constructions are being evaluated between the groups. Differences between sex in relation to the predominance of adaptive personality traits were portrayed in previous studies, a fact that seems to be related to culture.

Objectives

This study aims to assess whether the PID-5 presents structural equivalence between sex (sex measuremet invariance) and whether there are differences between pathological personality traits in Brazilian men and women.

Methods

A community sample of 1110 subjects was assessed (71.2% women, mean age 34.6 (±15.8) years, 68.8% higher education). They were recruited through advertisements in different media and by the “snowball” method. Participants responded to the PID-5 in person. The cross-culturally adapted version into Brazilian Portuguese was used

Results

The PID-5 showed that its structure was invariant for sex at the configural level (CFI= 1.000; TLI=1.007; RMSEA<0.001), metric (ΔCFI=0.01; ΔTLI= 0.02; ΔRMSEA=0.02) and scalar (ΔCFI=0.006) ; ΔTLI= 0.006; ΔRMSEA=0.004), allowing comparisons. Regarding the domains evaluated by the PID-5, men showed more traits of Distancing, Antagonism, Disinhibition and Psychoticism (p<0.002), while for Negative Affectivity there were no differences between genders (p=0.06). In terms of facets, women showed higher indicators of lability, anxiety and impulsivity (p<0.01), while men showed perseverance, withdrawal, restricted affectivity, manipulation, dishonesty, grandiosity, attention seeking, insensitivity, irresponsibility, exposure to risks, unusual beliefs and eccentricity (p<0.04).

Conclusions

The findings reinforce the validity evidence of the DSM-5 trait model, which, through the PID-5, similarly evaluates such aspects between sex. Differences between genders were observed in relation to pathological personality traits, which bear similarities with differences observed in terms of adaptive personality traits. Specificities are observed at the cultural level, when, for example, the findings are compared with a Japanese university sample, reinforcing the role of culture at this level

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Reaching Out from Europe to the Globe: The International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees
Authors: Santos Martins F. , Cavaleri D. , Zani D. , Tomašić L. , Kibitov A. , King J. , Markin K. , Sprengens J. , Ryland H. , Stirland L. , Seker A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The
European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees was founded in 2022 as the official journal of the European Federation of Psychiatric Trainees (EFPT) to offer a peer-reviewed open-access scientific journal with minimal article processing charges. The journal is edited by trainees and early career psychiatrists and published its first issue in July 2023. The journal aims to facilitate publishing experience and opportunities for trainees. To reflect the global identity and inclusivity of psychiatric research, the journal changed its name in 2023 to become the International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees.

Objectives

To present the International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees, the successor of the
European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees, and other practical aspects related to the article submission.

Methods

We will reflect on the International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees, focusing on what this name change will imply for the journal’s scope, mission and readership.

Results

Due to training programmes’ requirements or out of interest, psychiatric trainees are encouraged to conduct scientific research. However, several known barriers to scientific publishing exist, ranging from a lack of mentorship and supervision to limited scientific support. Like the
European Journal of Psychiatric Trainees, the International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees continues to be an open-access, double-blind peer-reviewed journal with minimal/no publication fees that publishes original and innovative research as well as clinical, theory, perspective, and policy articles and reviews in the field of psychiatric training, psychiatry, and mental health.

Since the difficulties and needs in creating research output are not exclusive to European trainees, the journal will become more attractive to readers and authors from other countries while increasing the diversity of articles.

The first International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees issue will be dedicated to the 31st EFPT Forum with the theme “Trainee Mental Health”, containing articles reporting on the projects from National Psychiatric Trainee Associations looking into trainee mental health. Submissions for the regular edition remain open, and articles should be submitted through the manuscript submission platform (https://ijpt.scholasticahq.com)

Conclusions

The International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees aims to be an educative scientific journal for psychiatric trainees and other psychiatry and mental health researchers. The name change and its increased openness will help the authors reach a wider readership while the journal can feature a more comprehensive record of psychiatric research through its global scope.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The prevalence of self-injury in adolescence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Farkas B. F. , Takács Z. K. , Kollárovics N. , Balázs J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Self-injurious behavior (SIB) among adolescents has become a hot topic in psychiatry. Despite the consensus that the prevalence of SIB is high, 26-22% among adolescence, there are conflicting results about whether it has increased in the 21st century and about the global distribution of the prevalence.

Objectives

The aim of the current study was to make a systematic search and meta-analysis of publications from the last 5 years on the prevalence of SIB in adolescents and to examine definitions and assessments of SIB, gender, continental, and year differences. The hypotheses were the following: 1) the prevalence of SIB did not change over time between the examined period for both girls and boys; 2) girls reported a higher prevalence of a history of SIB than boys.

Methods

The systematic search was made in June 2020. Six databases were used. The main search terms were “self-injurious behavior”, “prevalence” and “adolescence”. First the titles and abstracts of the relevant articles were checked, then the full texts were read and collected those papers that met the inclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were the following: published between 01/01/2015, and 06/18/2020, focused on community sample, and written in English. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software was used to conduct the analyses.

Results

In sum, a total of 97 articles were included in the meta-analysis with data from 439 818 participants. The overall average SIB prevalence was 16.0% in these studies. The first hypothesis was only partially confirmed. When all data that were published between 2015 and 2018 were considered, x significant increase was found in the prevalence of SIB between 1998 and 2018. However, when the analysis was restricted to the time frame between 2013 and 2018, no change in prevalence was found. The second hypothesis was fulfilled, girls reported a significant higher prevalence than boys (19.4% and 12.9%, respectively). A significantly higher prevalence was found when suicidal intent was excluded (18.3%), than when it was not excluded (11.3%) from the definition of SIB. The largest prevalence was found when measurement instruments were used that had been validated for SIB (18.9%). A significantly higher SEB prevalence was found among Asian articles than those from other continents (19.5% and 14.7% respectively).

Conclusions

The current systematic review and meta-analysis draw attention to the high prevalence of SIB among adolescents, especially among girls and those living in Asia. It is important to address this behavior, in terms of prevention and intervention as well.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Barriers in cancer care for patients with mental illness – a qualitative study
Authors: Vendelsøe A. N. H. , Stie M. , Hjorth P. , Søndergaard J. , Jensen L. H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Patients with mental illness experience a substantial inequity when facing cancer treatment compared to patients without mental illness. They have a higher cancer mortality and are less likely to be referred for treatment following clinical guidelines. The cancer treatment can exacerbate mental symptoms, which may lead to discontinuation of the treatment. Other relevant specialities such as psychiatry and general practice are rarely involved.

Objectives

In this qualitative case study, the needs, barriers and facilitators of providing high quality, patient-centered care to patients with cancer and pre-existing mental illness were explored. Emphasis was on patients’ experiences of being in the field between oncology, psychiatry, general practice and the municipality.

Methods

The study was anchored at the Department of Oncology, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle and data collection took place from January to June 2023. Through purposeful sampling five patients with cancer from adult psychiatric setting were included. Field studies were carried out inspired by the framework of Spradley, and involved following the patients during visits to the department of oncology and in the psychiatric setting. Formal interviews were performed using semi-structured interview guides inspired by Kvale and Brinkmann. Patient files were examined focusing on the awareness of the psychiatric diagnosis and treatment and communication between the departments and sectors.

Results

Our analysis showed one major theme: “Complexity on many levels”, and five subthemes: “The impact of the cancer trajectory on mental illness”, “The structure follows the disease, not the patient”, “Fragmentation of the health care system”, “Patient vulnerability” and “Importance of the patient-professional-relationship”. Barriers included lack of a systematic approach to the patient group in the health care system and sparse collaboration between departments and sectors. The cancer trajectory often led to severe worsening of the psychiatric illness, resulting in psychiatric hospitalisation. Facilitators were specialized coordinators at the hospital or municipality, relatives, patients’ resources and health professionals approaching the patient as a person rather than a disease. Final results will be ready for presentation at the conference.

Conclusions

Despite intentions of reducing inequality, the Danish health care system is still not equipped to sufficiently help patients with cancer and pre-existing mental illness through their cancer treatment. This study will highlight relevant target points, paving the way for a new, feasible care model that improves continuity and patient-centered care for patients with cancer and mental illness.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Psychiatric disorders in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Feki A. , Sellami I. , Mnif I. , Abbes A. , Gassara Z. , Ben jemaa S. , Ezzeddine M. , Kallel M. H. , Fourati H. , Akrout R. , Baklouti S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease that can lead to significant morbidity and especially to psychiatric disorders. Depression and anxiety are common symptoms in RA patients, and seem to influence disease activity, pain, and treatment response.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of depression and anxiety and their related factors in RA patients.

Methods

100 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis according to ACR1987 or ACR/EULAR criteria 2010 were investigated. Demographic, clinical and laboratorial data were obtained from hospitals records.

The RA severity Disease Activity was assessed by the Disease Activity Score (DAS 28). Physical function was assessed by the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ).

The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD a/d) was used to evaluate the depression and anxiety symptoms. Patients with results greater than 11 are considered depressed or anxious.

Results

The group studied included 87% of women and 13% of men. The median age was 55.2 years [27-83]. The median disease duration was 11.7± 8.9 years.

The majority of the patients were unemployed, they were housewives in 65% of the cases, retired in 6% and 2 % had taken sick leave.

The median ESR was 44 ± 31.6 mm, and the median of CRP level was 26 ± 35.3 mg/l. The median disease activity (DAS 28) was 4.6 ± 1.4. Forty-five % had moderate disease activity (3.2 ≤DAS 28 ≤ 5.1), and 27% of the sample had high disease activity (DAS 28 > 5.1). The mean of the HAQ was 1.1 [0-3].

The anxiety and depression questionnaire (HAD a/d) showed means of 10.6 for depression, and 10.25 for anxiety respectively. Depression was presented in 46 % of RA patients. Anxiety was presented in 48 %.

There was a correlation of HAD a/d with employment status (p<0.05), and functional disability (HAQ) (p<0.001).

There was no significant association of anxiety and depression scales with RA disease activity.

Conclusions

Chronic inflammation impairs the physiological responses to stress, resulting in depression, anxiety which leads to a worse long-term outcome in RA.

Physical disability and social factors, are predictive of psychiatric disorders in RA. This fact must be taken into account when evaluating therapeutic response.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Associations between general and specific psychopathology factors in parents and psychiatric, behavioral, and psychosocial outcomes in offspring: a Swedish population-based register study
Authors: Zhou M. , Larsson H. , D’Onofrio B. , Landén M. , Lichtenstein P. , Pettersson E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Psychiatric conditions in parents are associated not only with the same condition in offspring, but also with virtually all other psychiatric conditions. However, it remains unknown whether this intergenerational transmission of psychiatric conditions was attributable to broader psychopathology comorbidity or to specific conditions.

Objectives

To estimate associations between general and specific factors of psychopathology in parents, and a wide range of register-based outcomes in their offspring.

Methods

Based on Swedish national registers, we linked 2 947 703 individuals born in Sweden between 1970 and 2000 to their biological parents (1 705 780 pairs of parents) and followed them to December 31, 2013. First, we estimated one general and three unrelated (specific) psychopathology factors (capturing internalizing, externalizing, and psychotic problems, respectively, independently of general psychopathology) based on nine parental register-based psychiatric diagnoses and violent criminal court convictions. Second, we regressed each offspring outcome on the latent general and three specific factors simultaneously.

Results

The general psychopathology factor in parents was significantly associated with all 31 offspring outcomes (mean Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.22; range: 1.08–1.40), which means that children whose parents scored one standard deviation above the mean on general psychopathology had, on average, a 23% higher probability of all outcomes. The specific psychotic factor in parents was primarily associated with psychotic-like outcomes (mean OR = 1.17; range: 1.05–1.25), and the specific internalizing factor in parents was primarily associated with offspring internalizing (mean OR = 1.11; range: 1.11–1.13) and neurodevelopmental outcomes (mean OR = 1.07; range: 1.02–1.10). The specific externalizing factor in parents was associated with externalizing (mean OR = 1.27; range: 1.21–1.32) and internalizing outcomes (mean OR = 1.10; range: 1.01–1.13).

Conclusions

The intergenerational transmission of psychiatric conditions across different types of spectra appeared largely attributable to a parental general factor of psychopathology, whereas specific factors were primarily responsible for within-spectrum associations between parents and their offspring. Service providers (e.g., child psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers, and social workers) might benefit from taking the total number of parental mental health problems into account, regardless of type, when forecasting child mental health and social functions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Assessing the recovery process in a mobile rehabilitation team for people with severe mental disorders by using the Recovery Helm
Authors: Strkalj Ivezic S. , Curkovic M. , Štimac Grbić D.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

People with severe mental disorder (SMD) determine the goals and paths of recovery with professional and nonformal supporters such as family and friends. It is crucial that these people, as well as everyone who participates in the recovery process, are familiar with all the elements that contribute to the recovery of mental health in order to help people with SMD identify goals and assess their achievement. We have therefore created a Recovery Helm to assess the functioning in the various areas necessary for recovery to help us assess the needs and monitor the recovery process of people with mental health problems.

Objectives

The goal is to assess the initial state of mental health and monitor the effects of the mobile rehabilitation team program on the recovery of people with SMI through the use of the Recovery Helm.

Methods

We used the Recovery Helm: http://shorturl.at/gyCDQ as an instrument for the initial assessment of all areas crucial for recovery to determine the goals of recovery and interventions needed to achieve these goals of rehabilitation in 30 patients included in the program of the mobile rehabilitation team applying different psychosocial interventions according to the individual recovery plan made as a mutual agreement between patients and rehabilitation team. The status of recovery is evaluated after 3 and 6 months.

Results

The results indicate significant improvements in most areas of the recovery assessed at the Recovery Helm selected as individually important goal for a person included in the rehabilitation program

Conclusions

The Recovery Helm is an excellent clinical assessment instrument that helps determine recovery goals and rehabilitation interventions that promote recovery and monitor the achieved results.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Navigating the Professional Journey for Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Challenges and Strategies
Authors: Pinho S. A. , Coutinho F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects approximately 5% of adults. Individuals with ADHD often display symptoms of inattention, including poor time management and difficulty concentrating and completing tasks. Hyperactivity frequently attenuates over time and transforms into inner restlessness, leading to workaholic behaviors. Impulsive symptoms, on the other hand, may manifest as irritability and low frustration tolerance.

Objectives

To describe the workplace challenges that adults with ADHD face and to explore strategies to improve their occupational outcomes.

Methods

A non-systematic review of the clinical literature available in PubMed was conducted using the keywords: “employment” and “attention deficit hyperactivity disorder”.

Results

Individuals diagnosed with ADHD, in contrast to those without the condition, statistically exhibit poorer job performance and increased lateness, job instability, workplace injuries, particularly traffic accidents, comorbid diseases, and financial problems. Therefore, they often work harder to compensate for their limitations however the findings regarding the health impact of such high job demands are inconsistent. Stimulant therapy during childhood is the main predictor of successful adult employment. Contrarily, risk factors for workplace impairment in ADHD include female gender, executive deficits, lower IQ, less education, combined/inattentive subtype, and history of substance abuse, depression, or anxiety. It was also demonstrated that ADHD individuals may thrive in manual and creative roles and hyperactivity can benefit self-employment. Psychiatrists should offer psychoeducation, along with psychostimulants if necessary, as it is the first-line treatment. Nonetheless, the long-term impact of pharmacological treatment on professional outcomes remains unclear. Although most employers lack ADHD knowledge, workplace strategies including well-defined duties, feedback, job control, and flexibility have been shown to effectively mitigate ADHD symptoms.

Conclusions

Evidence suggests that a significant amount of employees with ADHD face challenges in finding and keeping a job. Thus, identifying and treating ADHD in adulthood is imperative to help them selecting careers that align with their strengths and weaknesses, which are partially influenced by ADHD, and to promote optimal occupational health. This effort requires collaboration between psychiatry and occupational health professionals. Additionally, it is necessary to start implementing educational campaigns among workforce teams to effectively accommodate workers with ADHD. Further studies are needed to develop occupational programs and rehabilitating interventions tailored to this population.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The Evolution of Anorexia Nervosa in Singapore: A 30-year Demographic Analysis
Authors: Lee H. Y. , Wong V. K. H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

New prevalence and time trend data from various Asian countries show that Eating Disorders (ED) are increasingly common in Asia. (Youl-Ri Kim. Int J Eat Disord. Dec 2020). A recent study estimating the prevalence of ED in Singapore found an alarming 6.2% screened positive for a clinical ED diagnosis, 19.5% were screened to be at high risk, and estimated the point prevalence of Anorexia Nervosa (AN) to be 0.9%. (Chua SN et al. Int J Eat Disord. Jan 2021).

The ED unit in Singapore General Hospital (SGH) was set up in 2003 as a National Treatment Programme for patients with ED.

Two local studies have been published to date on the demographics and clinical profile of patients with AN. The first study examined 126 patients from 1994 – 2002 (HY Lee et al. Singapore Med J 2005; 46(6): 275-281). The second study reported on 271 cases from our SGH ED unit from 2003-2010 (Kuek et al. SIngapore Med J 2015; 56(6): 324-328). There have been no further studies in the last decade.

Objectives

1.

Study the demographics and clinical profile of patients who presented with AN to our ED unit from 2011-2022

2.

Compare our data with the 2 previous studies and examine for any changes and trends in the past 30 years.

Methods

We conducted a review of the ED unit new case registry at SGH from 2011-2022. A total of 910 patients were diagnosed with AN at presentation. The data was analysed with approval from the hospital instituitional review board.

Results

A total of 910 cases presented with AN over 12 years. Comparing with the 2 previous studies, the number of new cases each year has continued to increase from <15 in the 1990s to hit a peak of 109 per year in 2022. 94% were females, with a mean presenting age of 19. 79.2% were Chinese, 5.2% were Indians and 2.9% were of Malay ethnicity. The Malay population continue to be under-represented whereas other ethnic groups continue to be over-represented, increasing from 3.2% to 7% in the previous studies to 11.1%. Referrals were mainly from tertiary healthcare intuitions accounting for 41.4% of cases. Self-referrals have decreased over the last decade whereas referrals from primary care has increased. The mean presenting body mass index (BMI) was 15.9. Compared to a previous study, there was a significant increase in presenting BMI (15.9+/- 0.78 vs 14.4 +/- 1.77, p value 0.0074).

Conclusions

The number of new cases of AN has seen an almost 10-fold increase in the last 30years. The Malay ethnicity continues to be under-represented – more research is needed if they are somehow culturally protected or if they are not coming forth for treatment. Majority of referrals are from tertiary healthcare institutions but referrals from primary care have increased, reflecting a possible increase in awareness amongst primary care doctors. The mean presenting BMI has increased – hopefully reflecting an increase in ED awareness such that patients are coming forward earlier for treatment.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Eating disorders in medicine university students in a city in the interior of the state of São Paulo Brazil
Authors: De Oliveira M. C. V. R. , Soares de Oliveira C. B. , Rejali N. D. , Machado M. B. , Formaio M. H. , Umbelino da Silva S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Eating disorders are characterized by a persistent disturbance in eating and/or eating-related behavior, resulting in altered food consumption or absorption, which can significantly compromise physical health as well as psychosocial functioning. These disorders are closely linked with stressful experiences which university students configure a group prone to development.

Objectives

The objective is to evaluate the impact of eating disorders on young people when entering and staying at university.

Methods

This is an observational, quantitative, analytical and cross-sectional study, in which 1300 (one thousand and three hundred) medical students were invited, of both sexes and over 18 years of age from the 1st (first) to the 12th (twelfth) year. period of the Medicine course at the University of Oeste Paulista (UNOESTE) with 91 students joining. A structured interview was applied via online, aiming at collecting sociodemographic and occupational data in conjunction with the application of the Periodic Eating Compulsion Scale - ECAP, assessing the existence and degree of eating disorders in medical students.

Results

Mean age 22.7 ± 3.9 years, predominantly female (76.9%) and white ethnicity (86.8%). Most live alone or with a parent (82.5%). With regard to eating habits, 81 (89.0%) said they did not follow a nutrition professional’s diet, and 84 (92.3%) have at least 3 meals a day. Lunch is eaten by 100% of the participants, while supper is the least consumed meal (17.6%). A total of 24 (26.4%) participants said they had little time to eat, and almost half (46.2%) did not prepare their own meals, with 12.5% choosing to eat salted or not. eating a certain meal. The ECAP binge eating score had a median of 9 (11.5) points, with a minimum score equal to 1 and a maximum equal to 41. Sixty-eight (74.7%) of the participants were classified as having no binge eating, with moderate binge eating 15 (16.5%), and severe, 8 (8.8%).

Conclusions

There is a need for changes in lifestyle aspects in order to present healthier meals in appropriate amounts, in addition to an adequate therapeutic approach to these disorders. Research funding agency We also declare that we received financial support from the Institutional Program for Scientific Initiation Scholarships (PROBIC).

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Parental Experiences of Grief after Pregnancy Loss: systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Duarte M. R. , Torres A. , Carvalho P. S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Gestational Loss represents a set of abrupt and unexpected losses throughout pregnancy or after childbirth. Every year, around two million babies die after 28 weeks of gestation, with between 14% and 20% of all pregnancies ending in loss. In most situations, pregnancy loss occurs in a pregnancy without signs of risk or irregularities, something that increases the shock and suffering felt by parents.

Objectives

The present study aims to understand the relationship between pregnancy loss and parents’ grief experiences after spontaneous abortion, stillbirth or neonatal death with qualitative evidence.

Methods

This review followed the principles of PRISMA, and the search was carried out in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, aiming to find relevant articles about parental grief experiences resulting from pregnancy loss, published between 2012 and 2022. After research and analysis Of the studies, 15 qualitative studies were included.

Results

The pain and sadness when experiencing the loss of a child was a common point in all the studies found. In this review, the majority of men revealed a duality in wanting to protect, physically and emotionally, their partner, while experiencing their own grief, something that led to the internalization of their emotions and the minimization of their pain. Grieving fathers and mothers report experiencing this process alone, describing the difficulty in expressing what they feel due to the lack of recognition of the loss. It was found that confrontation with other pregnant women leads bereaved parents to reveal jealousy and shame, as well as feelings of guilt. The farewell rituals, the process of writing and talking about their experience helped the women to not feel so alone and to find a purpose: to transform their pain and help other grieving mothers. Fathers and mothers who experienced pregnancy loss stated that the death of their child provided change and growth.

Conclusions

After Pregnancy Loss, adapting to the new reality is extremely painful, despite the work of mourning being necessary and crucial. This process is a search to integrate and accept the reality of the loss of the baby in a way that has meaning for the mother and father, it is the adaptation to a world without the lost child and to a relationship that had been built during the gestation period, which was violently broken. It is necessary for health professionals to be present and available to address these parents’ fears, provide advice and support.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Childhood trauma in adult depressive and anxiety disorders: immuno-metabolic evidences in the NESDA cohort
Authors: Milaneschi Y.
Published: August 2024

Childhood trauma and depression are both associated with increased risk of metabolic disorders, but their joint effects and underlying mechanisms are not well understood. This talk will present recent findings from large-scale epidemiological and biobank studies that explore the metabolic signature of childhood trauma, depression, and their interplay. For example, using longitudinal data from the NESDA cohort, we investigated the association of childhood trauma with metabolic syndrome in ˜3000 adults, including patients with depression and/or anxiety and healthy controls, over 9 years of follow-up. The talk will also describe preliminary results from an individual patient data meta-analysis pooling >160,000 subjects from the Early Cause European Consortium. In this study, we examined the differences in markers of obesity and dyslipidemia across individuals with neither childhood trauma nor depression (controls), those with childhood maltreatment, those with depression, those reporting both of these conditions. The findings described in the talk shed light on the complex interplay between early life stress, mood disorders, and metabolic health.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Brain imaging studies in Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and problematic social network site use
Authors: Weinstein A.
Published: August 2024

Gaming disorder is characterized by ICD 11 as persistent or recurrent gaming behavior manifested by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other life interests and daily activities; and continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences. IGD shares to a large extent neurobiological alterations seen in other addictions, such as activation in brain regions associated with reward, reduced activity in impulse control areas and impaired decision-making; and reduced functional connectivity in brain networks that are involved in cognitive control, executive function, motivation and reward. Moreover, there were structural changes, mainly reduction in gray matter volume and white matter density. Comorbidity studies indicate that executive control networks in ADHD may increase the susceptibility to develop IGD. Problematic SNS use has been associated with an increased rate of depression, anxiety, stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and propensity to excessive alcohol use. It may also lead to vulnerability to aggression, cyberbullying and fear of missing out (FOMO). There is little evidence for cognitive impairments, but there is some preliminary event-related potentials (ERPs) evidence for inefficiency in allocating and monitoring resources and inhibitory control. There is evidence for reduced sleep quality and quantity, longer sleeping latency and more sleep disturbance. Brain imaging studies showed impaired inhibitory-control mechanism, reduced gray matter volumes in the nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and the insula, suggesting rewarding effects of SNS use on the brain.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Unveiling Koro’s diverse conceptualizations across cultures
Authors: Seabra D. , Lopes I. , Moura J. , Leal J. , Rocha T. , Cunha J. , Torres S. , Santos D. , Santos G. , Ramalho N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Koro, also known in Cantonese as Shook Yang, which literally translates to “shrinking penis”, has its roots in a cultural belief that a mythological figure would steal the penis of his victims. Predominantly reported in Southeast Asia, it involves an acute fear of genital retraction, often accompanied by the belief that this retraction may lead to death. Over the last two centuries, Koro has undergone several attempts to establish its definition and classification, without a true consensus having been reached.

Objectives

This study aims to explore the cultural nuances surrounding Koro and reflect on the various conceptualizations that modulated its definition and nosological classification, from Ancient China until the present.

Methods

A non-systematic literature review with the keywords “koro” and “culture” was conducted.

Results

Koro was only introduced to the Western world during colonial expansion, drawing the attention of several psychiatrists who, in Asian territory, reported numerous cases in natives, making the very first attempts at a nosological classification, whether as an anxiety neurosis, or as an obsessive-compulsive disorder. The literature reveals significant cultural variations in the manifestation of Koro, challenging the traditional psychiatric understanding rooted in Western diagnostic categories. Cultural factors, including societal beliefs, religious practices, and regional variations, emerged as influential contributors to the prevalence and presentation of Koro. Additionally, the study identified instances of Koro evolving in response to cultural shifts and globalization, emphasizing the dynamic nature of this syndrome.

Conclusions

This review underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of Koro that acknowledges its diverse conceptualizations across cultures. Its occurrence, not only in multiple parts of the world, but also in close relation with various comorbidities, has contributed to the dissolution of its primary identity as a culture-bound syndrome, turning Koro into a moving target.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Interventions targeting social determinants of mental disorders and the Sustainable Development Goals: A systematic review of reviews
Authors: Oswald T. K. , Nguyen M. T. , Mirza L. , Lund C. , Jones H. G. , Crowley G. , Aslanyan D. , Dean K. , Schofield P. , Hotopf M. , Das-Munshi J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Globally, mental disorders account for almost 20% of disease burden and there is growing evidence that mental disorders are associated with various social determinants. Tackling the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), which address known social determinants of mental disorders, may be an effective way to reduce the global burden of mental disorders.

Objectives

To examine the evidence base for interventions that seek to improve mental health through targeting the social determinants of mental disorders.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of reviews, using a five-domain conceptual framework which aligns with the UN SDGs (PROSPERO registration: CRD42022361534). PubMed, PsycInfo, and Scopus were searched from 01 January 2012 until 05 October 2022. Citation follow-up and expert consultation were used to identify additional studies. Systematic reviews including interventions seeking to change or improve a social determinant of mental disorders were eligible for inclusion. Study screening, selection, data extraction, and quality appraisal were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The AMSTAR-2 was used to assess included reviews and results were narratively synthesised.

Results

Over 20,000 records were screened, and 101 eligible reviews were included. Most reviews were of low, or critically low, quality. Reviews included interventions which targeted sociocultural (n = 31), economic (n = 24), environmental (n = 19), demographic (n = 15), and neighbourhood (n = 8) determinants of mental disorders. Interventions demonstrating the greatest promise for improved mental health from high and moderate quality reviews (n = 37) included: digital and brief advocacy interventions for female survivors of intimate partner violence; cash transfers for people in low-middle-income countries; improved work schedules, parenting programs, and job clubs in the work environment; psychosocial support programs for vulnerable individuals following environmental events; and social and emotional learning programs for school students. Few effective neighbourhood-level interventions were identified.

Conclusions

This review presents interventions with the strongest evidence base for the prevention of mental disorders and highlights synergies where addressing the UN SDGs can be beneficial for mental health. A range of issues across the literature were identified, including barriers to conducting randomised controlled trials and lack of follow-up limiting the ability to measure long-term mental health outcomes. Interdisciplinary and novel approaches to intervention design, implementation, and evaluation are required to improve the social circumstances and mental health experienced by individuals, communities, and populations.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Examining the effect of family-based intervention programs used in psychosis on the disease: a systematic review
Authors: Kutlutürk Z. , Aktaş M. C. , Ayhan C. H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Psychosis is a complex mental health condition that can have a significant impact on individuals and their families. Family-based intervention programs have been developed to provide support and education to both individuals with psychosis and their families. These programs aim to improve clinical and family outcomes, reduce relapse rates, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals and their families . This study examined the effect of family-based intervention programs used in psychosis on the disease by synthesizing evidence from a systematic review of relevant studies.Family interventions have shown promising results in improving clinical and family outcomes in long-standing psychosis (Sadath et al., 2015). These interventions focus on improving relationships through problem-solving and enhancing the understanding of the illness and its treatment (Kuipers et al., 2010).

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of intervention programs implemented for the families of individuals diagnosed with psychosis on the course of the disease.

Methods

The study was conducted between August and September 2023 in 3 databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct) using the keywords “psychosis”, “family interventions”, “family in psychosis”. These databases were preferred because they contain a significant amount of evidence-based literature in the field of biomedical sciences and psychology. Studies conducted between 2013 and 2023, whose full texts were accessed and written in Turkish and English were included in the study.

Results

As of September 2023, 16 national and international research articles on the subject have been reached and the literature review continues. When the literature review is finalized, all study results will be presented together.

Conclusions

This review provides an overview of the effects of intervention programs implemented for the families of individuals diagnosed with psychosis on the course of the disease and solution suggestions. Family-based intervention programs have shown promise in improving clinical and family outcomes in psychosis. These programs focus on enhancing relationships, providing education, and reducing relapse rates. However, the implementation of family interventions in routine clinical services can be challenging due to various barriers. Peer support programs have emerged as a valuable addition to family interventions, providing a supportive environment for families to share their experiences and support one another. Future research should focus on addressing barriers to implementation and further exploring the benefits of peer-driven family support services in early intervention programs for psychosis.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Evaluating the relationship between blood lipids, cardiac risk index, and suicidal behaviors in first-episode psychosis
Authors: Güçlü L. , Şen M. , Balcıoğlu Y. H. , Çelikkıran P. , Kırlıoğlu Balcıoğlu S. S. , Gökçay H. , Karamustafalıoğlu N. , Yeşilkaya Ü. H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Schizophrenia patients have demonstrated a high prevalence of suicidal behavior. There isn’t yet a definitive explanation of the neurobiological mechanisms of suicidal behavior (SB) in psychotic patients. While subthreshold indices of dyslipidemia were observed in schizophrenia patients, it has shown that there is a relationship between dyslipidemia and suicidal behavior.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate possible associations between SB and lipid profile including cardiovascular biomarkers in first-episode psychosis (FEP) as compared with healthy controls (HC).

Methods

The study sample consisted of 173 subjects (111 male, 62 female). The sample included 31 drug- naïve FEP patients with current SB (FEP+S), 66 drug-naïve FEP patients without SB (FEP-S), and 76 mentally and medically HC subjects. Blood samples were collected from all participants to determine total cholesterol (TC), low- and high-density lipoproteins (LDL and HDL), and triglycerides (TG). Castelli Risk Index-I, Castelli Risk Index-II, and atherogenic index were calculated. Symptoms were assessed by using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used for pairwise comparisons of account of lipid parameters in three groups. A binomial logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the predictive power of lipid profile in the presence of SB in FEP.

Results

The results of Kruskal-Wallis test revealed that a statistical difference was found in TC and TG between groups. Despite statistical significance was observed in TG between all patient groups (FEP+S and FEP-S) and controls, as well as in TC between FEP-S and controls, there was no significant difference between FEP-S and FEP+S for any lipid parameters or cardiovascular biomarkers. No significant correlation was identified between lipid profile and symptom severity. No significant relationships were able to predict the presence of SB in FEP.

Conclusions

In this study, plasma levels of lipid parameters and biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in all patient groups (FEP+S and FEP-S) and HC were compared. Current results show no linkage between SB and lipid profile, but significantly lower levels of cholesterol in FEP. Therefore, cholesterol might have a protective role in terms of psychosis while CI1, CI2, and AI were not increased in psychosis. Thus, increased cholesterol levels or cardiovascular risk in schizophrenia patients, that several studies found, may ensue after antipsychotic use. Overall, present findings suggest that lipid profile abnormalities are specifically associated with FEP rather than SB. Controversy of results may reveal that research on SB requires an understanding of whether the patient had concomitant psychosis.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
A scoping review of the literature on the prevalence and correlates of anxiety and depression among undergraduate health science students
Authors: Agyapong-Opoku G. , Agyapong B. , Obuobi-Donkor G. , Eboreime E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Health science students in post-secondary institutions experience high levels of depression and anxiety due to increased stress levels, workload, low socioeconomic status, and history of family mental illness, among other factors. Given the significant negative impact that depression and anxiety can have on undergraduate health science students, it is essential to understand the prevalence and correlation of these conditions in this population.

Objectives

This scoping review aims to identify, document and analyze the literature on the prevalence and determinants of anxiety and depression among undergraduate health sciences students and identify gaps in knowledge for future research.

Methods

The scoping review was planned and executed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for the Scoping Reviews statement. A comprehensive and systematic search was carried out for five databases, namely MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL and PubMed.

Results

From the literature identified by our search strategy, the lowest prevalence for anxiety was 5.8%, and the highest was 82.6%, with a median of 44.25%. The prevalence of depression ranged from a high of 88.8% to a low of 2.1%, with a median value of 34.8%. Our analysis revealed that correlates of anxiety and depression among health science students include sociodemographic factors such as age, sex, gender, relationships, ethnicity and family history, personal health conditions, and academic and socioeconomic issues.

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Conclusions

With the high incidence of anxiety and depression among health science students, there is an increasing need to find practical remedies to support these students. It is also essential for policymakers and university authorities to implement interventions such as supportive text messages and other strategies geared toward providing support and improving the psychological well-being of health science students.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared