bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and factors associated with smoking among university staff
Authors: Sellami I. , Feki A. , Abbes A. , Masmoudi M. , Hajjaji M. , Jmal Hammami K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Smoking among university professionals could influence student smoking behavior, making it important to understand the associated factors to prevent this phenomenon.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of smoking among University staff in Sfax, Tunisia, and identify its associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 100 university staff. The questionnaire included socio-professional characteristics, assessment of physical workload using the Borg CR-10 scale, and evaluation of nicotine dependence using the Fagerström test.

Results

Our study included 62 participants, with 67.7% of them being women. Active smoking was reported by 50% of male participants. We observed symptoms of severe to very severe depression, anxiety, and stress in 6.4%, 22.5%, and 9.7% of our participants, respectively. Nicotine dependence, as assessed by the Fagerström test, was high to very high in half of the smokers. Bivariate analysis indicated a significant association between smoking and male gender, perceived workload (33.9%), and body mass index.

Conclusions

Smoking among university staff is a prevalent phenomenon, especially among male participants. The association of smoking with perceived workload suggests the need for preventive measures to reduce these physical constraints. It is paramount to take actions to encourage smoking cessation among university staff.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Smoking Prevalence and its Association with Work-Related Factors in an Electricity and Gas Company
Authors: Sellami I. , Feki A. , Abbes A. , Ghrab M. A. , Jmal Hammami K. , Masmoudi M. L. , Hajjaji M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In the workplace, a smoke-free environment is crucial to guaranteeing the health of workers and those around them. Understanding the relationship between smoking and work is a prerequisite for implementing effective tobacco control measures.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of smoking in an electricity and gas company in Sfax and to determine the relationship between workers’ nicotine dependence and perceived workload.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey evaluating the smoking behavior of 100 employees of an electricity and gas company. The survey was carried out from July to December 2022 using a two-part questionnaire. The first part was completed by the participants, and the second was administered by the interviewer. Nicotine dependence was assessed using the Fagerström test, while perceived workload was evaluated using the raw NASA-TLX questionnaire.

Results

Our study population consisted of 82 male participants. Active smoking was reported by 45.1% of participants. Among smokers, 40.5% had moderate to high nicotine dependence as assessed by the Fagerström test. According to the raw NASA-TLX questionnaire, the mean scores for mental, physical, and temporal demands were 88.8±13.5, 63.6±24.7, and 59.1±28.4, respectively. The mean scores for effort, performance, and frustration were 83.8±14, 85.4±13.1, and 34.5±28.1, respectively. Bivariate analysis indicated an inverse correlation between nicotine dependence and physical demands at work. However, a significant positive correlation was found between nicotine dependence and frustration at work.

Conclusions

Smoking among electricity and gas company workers is a prevalent issue, highlighting the urgent need for smoking cessation interventions. The association of smoking with perceived workload underscores the importance of preventive measures to reduce work-related stress.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Psychotropic substance use among medical residents: prevalence and characteristics
Authors: Ktari H. , Moalla M. , Smaoui N. , Gassara I. , Feki R. , Omri S. , Zouari L. , maalej bouali M. , Maalej M. , Ben Thabet J. , Charfi N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Psychotropic substance use among medical residents represents a critical concern due to its potential impact on patient care and practitioner well-being. This topic looks into the prevalence and characteristics of psychotropic substance use, including prescription medications and illicit drugs, among individuals pursuing medical residency. Understanding the scope of the problem and its distinctive features is essential for developing targeted interventions and support mechanisms within the medical community.

Objectives

To assess psychotropic substance use among medical residents, describe its characteristics and determine the prevalence of problematic use.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional and descriptive studyamong Tunisian medical residents over a three-month period (August - September 2022) using an online survey. Different specialties and levels of residency were included. An online self-questionnaire was used including a data collection form and the DAST-10 (Drug Abuse Screening Test) scale. The data was analyzed using the SPSS 20th version software

Results

Among the 80 residents in our study, 19 (23.8%) reported psychotropic substance use, and 12 (15%) reportedthat they had misused psychotropic drugs at least once in their lives (without a prescription and/or with a prescription but not following the instructions). The most commonly psychotropic drugs used were benzodiazepines, followed by amphetamines, analgesics, anesthetics, and pregabalin (28%, 16%, 12%, 12%, 12%, respectively).

Consumption was regular for 41.7% of those who reported psychotropic drugs misuse. The initiation of psychotropic use followed a desire to experiment various substances (41.7%), a medical prescription (33.3%), or their availability due to medical practice (25%). Self-medication and recreational use were the most common reasons for use (41.7% each). Furthermore, 31.6% of consumers revealed a problematic substance use as assessed by the DAST-10 scale.

Conclusions

Our study showed a concerning prevalence of psychotropic substance use among medical residents, benzodiazepines being the most prevalent. Notably, 15% acknowledged misuse and a significant proportion displayed problematic substance use. These results highlight the potential health risks and the importance of addressing this issue within the medical community.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The relationship between cannabis use, depression, anxiety and self esteem among Tunisian young adults living abroad
Authors: Moalla M. , Charfi N. , Ktari H. , Omri S. , Smaoui N. , Gassara I. , Feki R. , Zouari L. , maalej bouali M. , Ben Thabet J. , Maalej M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Cannabis use is very common worldwide. Its consumption could be explained by recreational purposes as it can be motivated by some psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety or low self-esteem.

Objectives

This study aims to explore the relationship between cannabis use, depression, anxiety and self-esteem among a population of Tunisian adults living abroad.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire on young Tunisians people who have completed their secondary studies at the pilot high school of Sfax and currently residing abroad. The survey questionnaire was designed on Google Forms. It included a data collection sheet and psychometric scales “Cannabis Abuse Screening Test” (CAST), “Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale” (HADS) and”Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale”.

Results

The sample consisted of 35 Tunisian young adults. 17 participants (48.6%) reported a cannabis use behavior. It was done with friends in a festive setting in 88% of cases (N=15). According to the CAST, 17,6% (N=3) of cannabis users were at high risk of cannabis dependence. Anxiety was present in 17,6% (N=3) and depression in 17,6% (N=3) of participants. Self-esteem was low in 23,53% (N=4) of participants.

Cannabis use was not associated with the presence of current emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression (p=0.894 and p=0.933 respectively). It was also not associated with lower self-esteem (p=0.585).

Conclusions

Cannabis use is relatively common among young Tunisian emigrants without evolving towards dependence inseveral cases. This behavior seems to be more influenced by social factors and misrepresentations about cannabis than by psychological disturbance.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Environmental determinants of mental health in clinical practice
Authors: Catthoor K.
Published: August 2024

According to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Report (2022), climate changes (e.g. rising sea levels and temperatures and) are noticeable and intensifying on the entire planet. Extreme weather events or ecological disasters are occurring with increased frequency and intensity. Anthropogenic climate change has been called “the defining issue of our time” (United Nations, 2022) and “the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century” (World Health Organization, 2015). Health impacts from climate change may include increased morbidity and mortality from worsening cardiopulmonary health, and greater risk of infectious diseases and mental illness. During this lecture, we will discuss environmental aspects that clearly have a negative impact on the mental well-being of the general population and, more specifically, the psychiatric population. The focus will primarily delve deeper into climate anxiety.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Factors Affecting Student Anxiety estimated by linear regression
Authors: Urtnasan T. , Namdag N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This study was conducted to estimate anxiety levels at the university level to address the issues of changing the healthy lifestyle of students, promoting health, spending their free time properly, being healthy, and developing good habits.

Objectives

The aim is to study the factors affecting student anxiety.

Methods

The study was conducted by random sampling of 1356 students from the 1st to 5th year of the medical school of Etugen University in the academic years 2020-2022.

Results

4.3%(58) of students’ inherent anxiety was low, 62.3%(845) was moderate, and 33.4%(453) were high, while 4.2%(57) had low anxiety and 42.4% (575) were anxious due to the student’s situation. had moderate anxiety and 53.4% (724) had high anxiety.

According to the research, 69.9% (948) had a low level of motivation, 23.4% (317) had a below-average level, 5.6% (76) had an average level, and 1.1% (15) had an above or higher level.

There is a weak inverse relationship between congenital anxiety and the course of study (r=-0.054*), and a weak inverse relationship between age (r=-0.048). There is a weak (r=-0.125**) inverse relationship between situational anxiety and the course of study, and a weak (r=-0.127**) inverse relationship between age.

When examining the relationship between students’ natural anxiety and the factors influencing it, there is a moderate (r=0.630**) direct correlation between natural anxiety and situational anxiety.

According to the one-factor linear regression analysis of students’ congenital anxiety (B=-1.964; 95%CI (-3.07 - 0.858); p<0.01), increasing the age by one increases congenital anxiety by 1.964 times, p<0.01, which means that the linear model is good. indicating a match.

Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that situational anxiety (B=3.845; 95%CI (6.288 - 347.90); p<0.01) or a one-level increase in situational anxiety increased congenital anxiety 3.845 times p<0.00. is relevant

Conclusions

According to the multivariate analysis, there is a linear significant relationship between one increase in student age, and -1.256-fold decrease in situational anxiety, and a -5.464-fold decrease in situational anxiety when not suffering from mental illness.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea syndrome severity on depression and anxiety disorders
Authors: Fki A. , Ben Lazreg A. , Bouchech R. , Ben Cheickh R. , Sakly G.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a chronic source of stress that can alter the emotional state of affected patients.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the impact of OSAHS severity on depression and anxiety disorders in a Tunisian population of apneic patients.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study, involving 40 patients diagnosed with OSAHS by polysomnography in the Sleep unit, department of Neurophysilogy at Sahloul university hospital in Sousse, Tunisia. Anxiety and depressive disorders were detected using the Arabic version of the HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale).

Results

The mean age was 49.7 ± 7.87 years with a sex ratio of 1.1. The mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was 29.72. OSAHS was mild, moderate and severe in 40%, 22.5% and 37.5% of cases respectively. One third (30%) of patients received a treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The prevalence of depression in the study’s patients, according to the HADS, was 56.4% and that of anxiety was 59%. There was a positive linear relationship between AHI and scores of depression and anxiety (p=0.045 and p=0.037 respectively). Similarly, a significant association was found between HAD scores and treatment with CPAP (p<0.05).

Conclusions

These results show a high frequency of anxiety-depressive disorders in patients with OSAHS. Severity of OSAHS and CPAP treatment proved to be determining factors in anxiety and depressive disorders, hence the importance of detecting these disorders in order to improve patients’ quality of life.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Interrelations of phantom ringing related anxiety and personal self-esteem in undergraduate university students
Authors: Nikolaev E. L. , Alhasan M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Manifestations of phantom ringing syndrome are widely seen in healthy population. Are there any interrelations between this phenomenon and personal psychological characteristics that are connected with the level of their mental health?

Objectives

To determine the specificity of interrelations of phantom ringing syndrome related anxiety and personal self-esteem in university students

Methods

The anonymous survey covered 546 undergraduate university students. The questions were centered on the students’ patterns of their personal smartphone use.

Results

The research showed that manifestations of phantom ringing syndrome is available in 189 students, or in every third student (34.6%), who use mobile phones. It is equally represented in males (49.7%) and females (50.2). Clinically, it is characterized by a higher level of anxiety, which reliably correlates (p<0.01) with the level of stress (r=.17), level of nervousness caused by absence of a mobile phone (r=.18), the frequency of headache (r=.15), the frequency of medication consumption related to chronic somatic disease (r=.15). We also established valid negative interrelations between the level of phantom ringing syndrome related anxiety and the personal self-esteem based on the parameters of religious belief (r=-.15), personal attractiveness (r=-.16), mind (r=-.17), happiness (r=-.24), liveliness (r=-.25) and well-being (r=-.15). We have not found any proof of valid interrelations with self-assessment of health.

Conclusions

The received results prove that phantom ringing syndrome related anxiety is connected with the personal self-esteem, the level of the perceived stress and some other clinical manifestations

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Childhood trauma in bipolar disorder: experience of Arrazi hospital
Authors: Boukidi H. , Ballouk H. , Sabir M. , Ait bensaid N. , Elomari F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Bipolar disorder is a chronic, recurrent, and disabling condition that typically begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. It is characterized by alternating phases of depression, mania, or hypomania. Childhood traumas are more frequently found in adults with bipolar disorder, suggesting their contribution to its development. They are also associated with more severe and complex clinical forms and a less favorable prognosis.

Objectives

Our objective is to assess the prevalence of childhood trauma rates in adults with bipolar disorder and to study the impact of childhood traumas on the clinical course of bipolar disorder, in comparison with a group of patients with bipolar disorder who did not experience trauma during their childhood.

Methods

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study using a questionnaire comprising sociodemographic criteria and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire Short Form (CTQ-SF) to evaluate the connection between physical and psychological traumas during childhood and bipolar disorder. The study also examines the types of these traumas and their impact on the course of bipolar disorder in these categories.

Results

Data were collected from 54 patients with bipolar disorder at Ar-Razi Psychiatric University Hospital. Among this sample, 60% were female and 40% were male. The age of the participants in our study ranged from 18 to 54 years. According to the Childhood Trauma Scale, approximately one-third of patients with bipolar disorder had experienced childhood trauma. Moreover, most participants who had survived childhood trauma experienced more relapses than patients who had not experienced traumatic incidents during their childhood.

Conclusions

Childhood traumas and bipolar disorder appear to have a significant causal association, both in the development of the disease and its course. The results of our study support evidence published in articles to better clarify the nature of this association. However, our study has several limitations, including a limited sample size and difficulties in long-term follow-up during the disease. Therefore, further studies exploring this subject are desirable for better management of this condition.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Models of liaison psychiatry in different countries and the role of liaison psychiatrists as promotors of public and community mental health
Authors: Novais F. , Telles-Correia D.
Published: August 2024

Consultation-Liaison (CL) psychiatry is the branch of psychiatric practice developed to offer support to patients with concomitant non-psychiatric diseases. In Portugal, most hospitals follow a model delivered by teams with Psychiatrists and Psychologists that support the medical team in wards. They act by advising directly other specialties’ colleagues after the observation of the patient and/or discussion of the case.

Bigger units, such as Santa Maria Hospital, in Lisbon, have tried a model of proximity to the community medical centers participating in local medical meetings, training of family doctors, discussing clinical situations directly and even doing psychiatric consultations, in community centers. This approach intends to extend primary mental health interventions and promote treatment in the community.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Bipolar disorder and Quality of life assessment using the SF-12 health survey
Authors: Gannoun N. , Bahri G. , Mechergui N. , Ben Said H. , Brahim D. , Mersni M. , Bani M. , Imene Y. , Ladhari N. , Methni M. , Ben Said C. , Bram N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe and chronic mental illness characterized by recurrent major depressive episodes and mania (BD-I) or hypomania (BD-II). In addition to the burden of the disease and its consequences, people living with BD, like many other people suffering from mental illness, must deal with their difficulty of integration which can influence their personal and professional life and consequently their quality of life (QOL).

Objectives

The aim of our study is to assess the QOL among working patients with BD.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out in the occupational medicine department of the Charles-Nicolle hospital in Tunisia. Sociodemographic and occupational data were collected from the medical records of patients with bipolar disorder who consulted our department during the period 2022 to 2023. and a telephonic survey was carried out to complete the SF 12 international scale, which is a general health questionnaire that consists of 12 questions which investigates the patient’s state of health via 8 different dimensions: General health perception, Physical health, Limited physical role function, Physical pain, Vitality, Mental health, Limited emotional role function and social functioning.

Results

We enrolled a total of 46 cases where 76% with BD type 1 with an average age of 43±9 years. Most participants were female (76%) and the most frequent sectors of activity were healthcare and administration (80% and 12% respectively). BD was well balanced in 39% of cases with an average bipolar history of 7 years. The median annual absence due to psychiatric problems was 92±61 days per year. The average score was 44±18 for the General Health, 57±35 for physical health and 67±18 for mental health.

Conclusions

This study revealed that people living with BD’s QOL seems to be altered. Clinicians need to be attentive to the QOL of their patients, its assessment, and its empowerment in their daily clinical practice. Future work is required to establish valid strategies to fight low QOL among patients suffering from BD.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Unipolar and Bipolar Depression : Which Differences?
Authors: Turki M. , Labyadh A. , Abid W. , Halouani N. , Ellouz S. , Aloulou J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Depression is a common mental disorder whose management remains delicate, given the trans-nosographic nature of this syndrome. Two common types of depression are bipolar and unipolar depression. Although they share many similar symptoms, several differences between the two pathologies are suggested in prior studies.

Objectives

We aimed to compare the disease characteristics and evolution of unipolar and bipolar depressed patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective descriptive and analytical study among medical records of 167 patients hospitalized for a depressive episode (DE) at the Psychiatry “B” Department, Hedi Chaker University Hospital (Sfax, Tunisia), during the period between 2015 and 2017. Patients were divided into two groups according to DSM-5 criteria: those with bipolar disorder I or II (bipolar depression) versus those with major depressive disorder (unipolar depression).

Results

The mean age of our patients was 37.6 years, with a female predominance (sex-ration F/M =1.7). The age of onset of the disease was earlier in bipolar depressed patients (29.36 versus 31.89), without a significant relationship. Family psychiatric history was significantly more prevalent in bipolar disorder patients (73.5% versus 37.3%; p<0.001). Bipolar patients are more likely to be unemployed (65.3% versus 50.8%), but without a significant relationship.

Bipolar patients were more likely to be hospitalized for suicide attempts (44.9% versus 35.6%; p=0.2).

Conclusions

Distinguishing between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder is important because there are differences in the optimal management of these conditions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Case Series: The use of Lithium in Bipolar Affective Disorder and End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Corrigan K. , Larkin D. , Giusti G. , Gallagher M. , Guerandel A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Lithium is a highly effective treatment in the management of Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD) however it is associated with increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease. There is a lack of clear guidance on alternative approaches to managing those individuals that require cessation of lithium due to progression to end stage renal disease (ESRD).

Objectives

We discuss two patients with BPAD on lithium therapy who have developed ESRD. In both cases, lithium was discontinued due to ESRD, with alternatives trialled. In one case, the patient continues to be managed without lithium, whereas in the second, a decision was made to recommence lithium at a low dose. We reviewed the literature to provide meaningful context to the cases.

Methods

Case 1 This patient with a long history of BPAD and multiple medical co-morbidities experienced progressive decline in renal function. A decision was made to cease lithium therapy with close monitoring for signs of affective relapse. The patient was stabilised using a combination of sodium valproate and quetiapine. Since cessation of lithium, the patient has required a significant increase in support from the CMHT and more frequent admissions to manage mood and anxiety symptoms that cause significant subjective distress.

Results

Case 2 This patient had a long history of stable BPAD, with no episodes of illness for over 30 years. Unfortunately they developed CKD and despite a significant reduction in lithium over time, they developed ESRD requiring haemodialysis. Lithium was discontinued leading to a manic relapse of BPAD requiring a prolonged admission and a combination of carbamezapine, olanzapine, escitalopram and clonazepam to stabilise their mental state. Following discharge home, their mental state failed to reach baseline and they reported significant anxiety symptoms and memory impairment. Following protracted assessment and support they were deemed unfit for renal transplant and a decision was then made by the patient, their family, nephrology and psychiatry to recommence lithium therapy whilst on haemodialysis. Their anxiety and functioning improved significantly following the reintroduction of low dose lithium, allowing the withdrawal of other neuroleptics.

Conclusions

Both cases required an individual approach to balance physical and mental health considerations. There are no clear markers to predict if a patient will respond to alternative mood stabilisers, nor is there a guarantee that kidney function will improve or stop declining when lithium is discontinued. Decisions should reflect patient preference and balance risks associated with relapse and of declining ESRD.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Neural Abnormalities in Bipolar Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Functional Neuroimaging Studies
Authors: Herrera S. J. , Reyes F. A. , Johnson-Venegas G. , Baten C. , Zamora G. , Klassen A. M. , Miller J. A. , Woo E. , Hedges D. W. , Hamilton P. J. , Gotlib I. H. , Sacchet M. D. , Miller C. H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Bipolar I disorder (BD-I) is a chronic and recurrent mood disorder characterized by alternating episodes of depression and mania; it is also associated with substantial morbidity and mortality and with clinically significant functional impairments. While previous studies have used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine neural abnormalities associated with BD-I, they have yielded mixed findings, perhaps due to differences in sampling and experimental design, including highly variable mood states at the time of scan.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to advance our understanding of the neural basis of BD-I and mania, as measured by fMRI activation studies, and to inform the development of more effective brain-based diagnostic systems and clinical treatments.

Methods

We conducted a large-scale meta-analysis of whole-brain fMRI activation studies that compared participants with BD-I, assessed during a manic episode, to age-matched healthy controls. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive PubMed literature search using two independent coding teams to evaluate primary studies according to pre-established inclusion criteria. We then used multilevel kernel density analysis (MKDA), a well-established, voxel-wise, whole-brain, meta-analytic approach, to quantitatively synthesize all qualifying primary fMRI activation studies of mania. We used ensemble thresholding (p<0.05-0.0001) to minimize cluster size detection bias, and 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations to correct for multiple comparisons.

Results

We found that participants with BD-I (N=2,042), during an active episode of mania and relative to age-matched healthy controls (N=1,764), exhibit a pattern of significantly (p<0.05-0.0001; FWE-corrected) different activation in multiple brain regions of the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia across a variety of experimental tasks.

Conclusions

This study supports the formulation of a robust neural basis for BD-I during manic episodes and advances our understanding of the pattern of abnormal activation in this disorder. These results may inform the development of novel brain-based clinical tools for bipolar disorder such as diagnostic biomarkers, non-invasive brain stimulation, and treatment-matching protocols. Future studies should compare the neural signatures of BD-I to other related disorders to facilitate the development of protocols for differential diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes in patients with BD-I.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Expectations of children and adolescents suffering from cancer
Authors: Kamperopoulou G. , Zartaloudi A. , Moschovi M. , Tzoumaka-Bakoula C. , Dousis E. , Evangelou E. , Dafogianni C. , Polikandrioti M. , Koutelekos I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Investigation expectations for children and adolescents with cancer is an important issue for their psycho-emotional development as well as their quality of life.

Objectives

To investigate the expectations of children suffering from cancer.

Methods

102 questionnaires were collected from pediatric patients suffering from neoplasia disease (62 boys and 40 girls) with a median age of 13 years, covering the multidimensional expectation questionnaire (MEQ) suitable for children with cancer in a 4-point Likert scale. The MEQ was then evaluated using the SPSS.21 statistical package, which resulted in 13 questions. The questionnaire of expectations highlighted three factors that referred to the “family life expectations”, “daily life / daily routine and career prospects”, and “expectations of networking friendship”, respectively. The statistical results were obtained by multi-line regression analysis, with the Stata 12.1 statistical package, while ethical issues were complied with and licensed.

Results

MEQ reliability (Cronbach’s alpha) for the entire scale was 0.82 and for agents ranged from 0.65-0.84. Overall, pediatric cancer patients delivered a fairly high average score of 3,33 ± 0,42 questions in the expectation’s questionnaire, while the mean scores were 3,29 ± 0,63, 3,51 ± 0, 45 and 3.19 ± 0.54, respectively. From the results of the analysis of multiple regression, it appeared that, as the age increases, the patients with neoplastic disease have overall 76 lower expectations (p = 0.014), while the satisfaction of the doctors-nursing staff in the total expectations is positive (p = 0.018). In the family life expectancy factor, the age of children appears to play a negative role in increasing age (p = 0.019), while positive body image and satisfaction with doctors-nursing staff (p = 0.040, p = 0.006) respectively. It appeared that children aged> 13 years have worse outcomes in expectations of the daily routine and career prospects with (p = 0.037).

Conclusions

The MEQ has proven to be a valid and reliable tool that can provide pediatric staff and researchers with information about the expectations of children and adolescents with cancer that require long-term health care.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
ADHD symptoms are associated with bully victimization in non-clinical populations too
Authors: Glans M. R. , Bejerot S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Individuals with ADHD are at higher risk of being bullied than individuals without ADHD1,2,3 Over the past decades, there has been a shift from a categorical to a dimensional conceptualization of ADHD4. It remains unknown if the association between ADHD and bullying also extends to non-clinical populations.

Objectives

To assess if subclinical ADHD symptoms associates with bully victimization in childhood and adolescence.

Methods

1557 non-clinical adults completed the 6-item Adult Self-Report Scale Screener (ASRS) and answered questions concerning bully victimization. ADHD and ASD diagnoses served as exclusion criteria. Prevalence rates of bully victimization (defined as bullied ≥twice monthly) were compared at different time periods between those with- and without a positive ASRS-screener (cut-off score ≥4/6) by chi-square tests. Moreover, logistic regression evaluated the association while adjusting for candidate covariates age and sex.

Results

Out of the total sample 1332 individuals (mean age=42, 60% female) scored negative and 217 individuals (mean age=36, 70% female) scored positive on the ASRS-screener while 8 had missing data on age or sex. Prevalence rates of bully victimization comparing those with- and without a positive score were as following; 20% vs 11%, p<.001 at 7-9 years, 26% vs 15%, p<.001 at 10-12 years, 20% vs 13%, p=.005 at 13-15 years and 6% vs 2%, p=.002 at 16-18 years. The statistically significant associations seen in the prevalence comparisons up until working life remained in the logistic regression models.

Conclusions

More pronounced subclinical ADHD symptoms were associated with approximately twice as high prevalence of bully victimization in childhood and adolescence. Thus, ADHD characteristics appear to have serious consequences across the full clinical and non-clinical parts of the spectrum.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Case-study: Patient with acquired epileptic aphasia in childhood
Authors: Terziivanova P. , Ushkova A. , Petkova K. , Borisova D. , Popova A. , Marinov P.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Acquired epileptic aphasia or Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) is a disorder with onset in the childhood between the ages of 2 and 8 years. The main defining psychopathological symptom of Landau-Kleffner syndrome is the acquired aphasia with epileptiform electroencephalographic abnormalities. The aphasia has both receptive and expressive features. The onset is usually subacute and the course is usually progressive with spontaneous improvements and exacerbations. The electroencephalographic abnormalities include pathological findings in the temporal and parieto-occipital brain regions.

Objectives

An 11 year old girl with generalized tonic-clonic and partial seizures is referred to our child and adolescence outpatient service due to language impairment. Her first generalized seizure has been at the age of 11 months old, caused by high temperature. The presence of articulation difficulties has raised suspicion for intellectual disabilities. She has been diagnosed with Epilepsy, grand mal seizures and has had continuous treatment with sodium valproate since the age of 3 years.

Methods

We used medical history, EEG-recordings, clinical observation and psychological assessment.

Results

Patient`s language development has been normal till the age of 3 years old. She has started using single words properly at the age of 1 year and 6 months old. Her first simple sentences have appeared at the age of 2 years old. At the age of 3 years old after severe generalized tonic-clonic seizures she has stopped talking for a month. After this month she had started vocalizing and using simple words, but she had lost her ability to form sentences. She has had some mild difficulties in understanding verbal information and following instructions. Her speech has had bad articulation and deficits in the verbal fluency. Her gross and fine motor development, her social skills and problem-solving abilities have all been intact and age-appropriate. She has worked with speech therapist for 5 years and achieved partial recovery from the acquired aphasia. She continues to have problems with the articulation – the speech is still with mild dysarthria. We used WISC-IV to assess her IQ (IQ=108).

Conclusions

The patient has already developed age-appropriate speech prior to the onset of the language impairment. Considered as secondary or acquired, the observed aphasia together with the medical data for her epileptic seizures allows us to diagnose the patient with Acquired epileptic aphasia or Landau-Kleffner syndrome. Later development will be presented and discussed.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Interrelations of Intelligence and Social-Adaptive Skills in Adolescents with Multiple Developmental Disorders: A Pilot Study
Authors: Shvedovskii E. , Maltseva N. , Melnikova D. , Dronova S. , Bitova A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The relationship between social adaptation and intelligence in adolescents with developmental disorders varies depending on various psycho-social factors. Adolescence is marked by pubertal changes in mental and physical development. Previous research has revealed a moderate correlation between intelligence and various groups of adaptive skills in adolescents with Down syndrome. However, studies involving adolescents with multiple developmental disorders are relatively scarce in the existing literature

Objectives

Determine the distribution of intelligence among adolescents with severe multiple disabilities; Identify the connection between intelligence and the level of adaptation in this group; explore the connection between intelligence and independence skills in the subjects.

Methods

The study included 11 adolescent participants enrolled in a comprehensive social skills development intervention program at the Center for Curative Pedagogics: 5 girls and 6 boys, mean age - 14,0 yrs. Age st.dev: 24,3 and 18.4. ICD-10 DS of participants were: F48.xx, F70.xx, F80.xx, F84.xx, G40.xx, G80.xx, Q74.xx, and Q90.xx.

Following tools were used: Leiter-3 scales (LIQ), Vineland-3 Adaptive Behavior Scales (VSS); Perkins I.C.A.N. independence Scales (ICAN).

Results

Selected variables including were tested with the Shapiro-Wilk test. p-values of the SW test indicated that data were not distributed normally: LIQ (w=0.953, p=0.685); VSS (w=0.964, 0.821); ICAN (w=0.877;p=0.095).

For the identification of the connections between the intelligence (LIQ) and adaptive functioning (VSS) we used r-Spearman criteria. These parameters showed significant monotonic relationship (rs = 0.961, p<0.001). Mean IQ level of the sample is characterized as mildly impaired (mean = 62.9). The adaptive and the independence skills level of the sample are also far below the low normative results (57.1 and 48.7 respectively). Images 1,2 and 3 shows the distribution of the data. The correlation between IQ (LIQ) and independence skills (ICAN) is not significant (rs = 0.671, p<0.024), as well as the correlation between adaptive and independence skills (rs = 0.733, p<0.010).

Conclusions

We made an exploratory study of the adolescent participants of the comprehensive social skills development intervention program at the Center for Curative Pedagogics. Results show that non-verbal intelligence of the participants shows strong connection to the adaptive skills, but not to the independence skills. Sample size is very small, which is explained by the specifics of the intervention. Further research should be focused on the increasing sample and the expanding analysis parameters, such as social and family history, intervention details and the additional variables of the existing measurements.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Gender diversity and autism spectrum disorder in child and youth population
Authors: Rodríguez P. R. , Grimal M. M. , Castellano E. E. M. , Batista F. A. R. , Pérez N. M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Interest in the co-occurrence of gender dysphoria and autism spectrum disorder has gained prominence in recent years. Gender dysphoria refers to the distress experienced when there is an incongruence between gender identity and sex assigned at birth. On the other hand, autism spectrum disorder is characterized by difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as restrictive and repetitive patterns of behavior.

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to review the current available literature in order to expand our knowledge about gender identity and dysphoria in the population with autism spectrum disorder.

Methods

A qualitative review was conducted over the last 20 years, using the Medline database through PubMed. Combinations of MeSH terms related to gender identity and people with autism spectrum disorder were used, selecting those studies in English, French or Spanish that met the objectives of the review, excluding references in other languages. The scientific evidence obtained was analyzed and synthesized.

Results

The development of gender identity of people with autism spectrum disorder can be a complex process. Comparing the general population with the population with autism spectrum disorder, a higher prevalence of gender dysphoria has been evidenced in the population with autism spectrum disorder, and within this group when segmented by gender, greater in women than in men.

Conclusions

This review highlights the importance of increasing knowledge about sexuality and gender dysphoria in people with autism spectrum disorder in order to facilitate the development, understanding and acceptance of their gender identity and sexual orientation of these people.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
General features of existential depression in youth
Authors: Kaleda V. , Popovich U.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The axial symptom of existential depression in youth is overvalued ideas about the meaninglessness of human life, its inconsistency with a certain “spiritual self-ideal”; ideas of humiliation, insolvency, low value, imperfection of society are noted, which accompanies varying degrees of severity of suicidal thoughts. The high suicidal risk, insufficient knowledge of such conditions makes it important to study.

Objectives

Determination of the clinical and psychopathological consequences of existential depression in youth.

Methods

53 male 16-25 years old with F31.3, F31.4, F32, F33 (ICD-10) with the existential depression were examined with clinical-psychopathological method, psychometric assessment of depression was carried out using the HDRS scale, assessment of suicidal intentions - using the C-SSRS scale. Also were analyzed: premorbid personality structure, hereditary burden in first-degree relatives, the role of exogenous provocations. Statistical data processing was carried out using the STATISTICA software package 10.0 for WINDOWS (StatSoft, USA, was used Pearson χ² test, Student t-test. The critical level of statistical significance is p ≤ 0.05.

Results

A significant role in the manifestation of existential depression was played by exogenous provocations (χ²=9.47, p=0.05), especially psychotrauma: the most common were the death of a close relative or friend, unrequited love, and failure to enter the desired university.According to the premorbid personality structure schizoid (56.7%) and psychasthenic personalities (30.2%) prevailed. When assessing hereditary burden (χ²=9.59 p=0.047), pathocharacterological features were noted in first-degree relatives in 32.1% cases, affective disoders in 26, 4%.In terms of social and labor status (χ²=9.47, p=0.05), university students naturally predominated (56.6%). The average age of onset of depression was 17.8 ± 1.2 years, duration 3.7 ± 1.5 months. Non-suicidal self-harm was observed in 32.1%, especially in the initial stages of depression. Among suicidal tendencies (χ²=9.58, p=0.048), anti-vital thoughts (50.9%) and passive suicidal thoughts (34%) dominated; 5.7% of patients attempted suicide. On the HDRS scale, patients scored an average of 18.2±1.7 points, which reflected the severity of depression; the total score on the C-SSRS scale was 2.12±0.34.

Conclusions

In the formation of existential depression, a significant role of exogenous provocations, especially psychotrauma, was discovered; a high suicidal risk was confirmed. Existential depressive states differed in duration; patients of the identified typological varieties scored high on the HDRS and C-SSRS scales. In the future, it is planned to study the follow-up group for the purpose of a detailed analysis of the dynamics of such conditions and their nosological affiliation.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Is body image misperception associated with sociodemographic factors and life habits? a cross-sectional study 1399 Tunisian school-adolescents
Authors: Mohamed F. , Sellami S. , Amira D. , Fares J. , Rim G. , Jihenne M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Understanding adolescents perceptions of their weight status and the factors influencing these perceptions is pivotal for developing targeted interventions and policies to counteract the rising obesity trends.

Objectives

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the accuracy of weight status perceptions among Tunisian adolescents compared to objective metrics and to identify sociodemographic characteristics and life habits associated with the underestimation of weight status.

Methods

A cross-sectional, school-based study was conducted among a randomized sample of adolescents attending secondary schools in Sousse, Tunisia. A total of 1399 students participated, with anthropometric measurements taken, and a pre-tested Arabic questionnaire administered to gather sociodemographic data and perceived weight status, assessed using the Figure Rating Scale (FRS). The accuracy of perceived weight status was determined by comparing the measured weight status with participants; self-reported perceptions. We evaluated the association between body weight distortion and life habits which included regular physical activity, screen time (time spent on internet per day), number of fruits and vegetables consumed per day, and fast-food consumption.

Results

The study achieved an 86.68% response rate, with over half of the participants being female (60.5%), and the average age being 17 years. The majority of adolescents (41%) perceived themselves as having normal body weight, while 34.5% perceived themselves as underweight, 16.6% as overweight, and 7.9% as obese. However, based on BMI categories, 72.6% had a normal measured weight, 20.4% were overweight, and 6.9% were obese. A substantial proportion of participants (45.6%) underestimated their weight status, with a significant proportion being objectively overweight or obese (26%). Furthermore, we found a significant association between the perception of weight accuracy with four correlates: gender, mother educational level, regular physical activity, and the number of fruits and vegetables consumed per day.

Conclusions

The findings revealed a disparity between perceived and actual weight status among Tunisian adolescents, with a significant underestimation of weight status, particularly among those who are overweight or obese. The results highlighted the crucial need for interventions that address weight perception inaccuracies and promote healthy weight awareness and management among adolescents in Tunisia. The study underscored the importance of further research to understand the development and progression of body weight underestimation throughout adolescence and the roles of lifestyle behaviors in shaping weight perceptions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared