bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of cannabis in bipolar disorder relapse: a prospective study of hospital acute readmissions
Authors: Olivier L. , Giménez A. , Andreu Gracia H. , Bueno L. , De Juan Viladegut Ó. , Fernández T. M. , Ochandiano I. , Salmerón S. , Bracco L. , Tardón Senabre L. , Pacchiarotti I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

With the rapid changes of attitude, investigation and legislation around cannabis and its subproducts in the Western world, there is a need to profoundly examine the consequences of its use in the general population and, specifically, in people affected by mental disorders. There is a clear relationship between cannabis use and psychosis, but there is also growing evidence of its relationship with manic episodes (Sideli et al, 2019).

A systematic review published by the CANMAT Task Force in 2022 examined again the relationship between cannabis use and bipolar disorder (BD), establishing association with worsened course and functioning of BD in frequent users (Tourjman et al., 2023). On the other hand, some recent papers have highlighted the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in BD, suggesting even possible beneficial effects, mainly through the CB2 receptor (Arjmand et al, 2019).

Objectives

To describe the impact of cannabis in the psychiatric readmission in BD and to approach the differences in course in cannabis users with regards to non-users.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study including the patients admitted to our acute psychiatric unit with the diagnosis of manic or mixed episode during the period between 2015 and 2019 (including patients with one of both final diagnosis: BD or schizoaffective disorder). We established a follow-up of 3 years from the date of admission in which hospital readmissions are examined.

Results

The study, which included 309 patients, concluded that cannabis users were admitted and had the first episode at a younger age (p=0.005), a higher percentage of them did not have a previous diagnosis (p=0.026) nor a previous history of mental health issues (p=0.019) and it was more likely to be their first admission (p=0.011) and to suffer psychotic symptoms (p=0.002).

As of treatment, the results were statistically significant regarding the fact that a lower proportion of patients had received previous psychiatric treatment (p=0.004) and previous electroconvulsive therapy (p=0.003). There was a higher chance of them being non-adherent with medication (p<0.001) and to be administered extended-release antipsychotic treatment during admission (p<0.001).

The study did not find a statistically significant relationship with cannabis use and a higher rate of readmission in the 3 years of follow-up.

Conclusions

Although a higher relapse rate could not be proven in our study, other previously identified factors related to a worse illness course (Sajatovic et al., 2009) did show a significant association with cannabis use, which could lead to one suggesting that our results are compatible with the actual evidence and that cannabis products are detrimental to people who suffer from BD and schizoaffective disorder.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Pattern of video game usage and video game disorder in Portugueses adolescents: A study about parental and peer attachment, parenting styles, and communication in parenting
Authors: Ribeiro A. M. , Maia B. R.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Video game disorder has been a subject of increasing interest, being associated with patterns of insecure attachment and authoritarian and permissive parenting styles. However, there is still a gap concerning the relationship between video game disorder and parent-child communication, one of the fundamental components of attachment to parents. Particularly in the Portuguese context, research on these topics and their interrelations is still scarce, thus remaining relatively unexplored.

Objectives

To explore the pattern of video game usage and video game disorder, as well as their relationships with parental and peer attachment, parenting styles, and communication in parenting within a sample of Portuguese adolescents.

Methods

150 Portuguese teenagers, recruited at public Portuguese schools, aged between 10 and 19 years old (mean age = 14.37, DP = 3.12; 52.7% girls (n = 79), and mostly living with both parents (79.7%, n = 106) fulfilled a sociodemographic and an academic questionnaire, a questionnaire on video game use patterns, the Video Game Disorder Scale - Short Version 9, the People in My Life Questionnaire, the Portuguese hetero-report version of the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire: Short Versionand the Perception Scale of Parenting Communication.

Results

The majority of the sample indicated 3rd childhood (n = 81, 54.0%), specifically at 8 years old, as the age of video game initiation and a playtime of less than or equal to 2 hours (n = 111, 74.0%), with only 2 participants found to have a video game disturbance index (1.3%). A positive association was found between video game disturbance and the average hours of gameplay, as well as a negative association with the age of game initiation. Additionally, relationships were explored, revealing that video game disturbance is negatively related to lower quality of attachment to parents and peers, positively related to an authoritative parenting style, and negatively related to less available, open, and affectionate parent-child communication.

Conclusions

This study provides an in-depth understanding of adolescents’ behavior regarding video games, contributing to the knowledge of the topic in the Portuguese context. Furthermore, the identification of factors associated with video game disturbance allows for the development of remediation and prevention programs for this addictive disturbance, which are essential tools in psychological practice.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Study of EEG sensitivity and specificity in loss of conciousness in adolescents
Authors: Bouchech R. , Fki A. , Kammoun I. , Kammoun I. , Masmoudi K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Although the etiological diagnosis of loss of consciousness is essentially based on a careful history and clinical examination, electroencephalography (EEG) remains an important investigative tool.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify the value of EEG in the management of adolescents with recurrent bouts of fainting

Methods

This was a retrospective descriptive study conducted from January 2019 to May 2022. We included all adolescents referred to the functional explorations department at Habib Bourguiba hospital, Tunisia for Electroencephalogram (EEG) as part of a workup to explore recurrent episodes of loss of consciousness.

Results

A total of 55 adolescents were included in this study, with a mean age of 15.4±2.3 and a 72.4% female proportion.The delay between the EEG and the onset of the seizure was greater than one week.67.3% of patients were referred by the child psychiatry department.29.1% of the 55 EEG reports were pathological. Epileptiform discharges were noted in 56.3% of adolescents. Slow waves were found in 43.7% of cases. The location of the abnormalities was predominantly frontal. Patients with temporal EEG anomalies had a notion of ascending epigastric pain preceding loss of consciousness in 90% of cases. Adolescents with EEGs containing epileptiform abnormalities had a history of paroxysmal movements in 30% of cases. The sensitivity of the EEG was estimated to be around 25%, and the specificity around 79%.

Conclusions

Although the clinical examination is of great importance in the etiological diagnosis of loss of consciousness, the EEG remains a complementary examination of non-negligible interest in the etiological investigation.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Cyber victimisation and depression among adolescents in Tunisia: a case report study and review of literature
Authors: Bergaoui E. , Touiti A. , Maamri A. , Hajri A. , Zalila H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Cyber victimization is a form of violence that is perpetrated through social media, and its victims are primarily adolescents and young adults. This can have a negative impact on their psychosocial well-being.

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between cyber victimization, depression, and suicide, identifying risk factors, prevention and intervention strategies through an case report.

Methods

We report the clinical case of a 16-year-old Tunisian man who developed a depressive disorder after being cyber-victimized. We also conducted a literature review in PubMed database keywords: depression, suicide, cybervictimisation, adolescents to identify risk factors, prevention and intervention strategies.

Results

The adolescent was a member of a youth group called The Gung, which organized climbing challenges that were then broadcast on Facebook. He was the victim of cyberbullying after failing a challenge that was broadcast live. As a result, he was rejected by his group of friends and subjected to death threats and bullying. A clinical examination revealed major depressive disorder, low self-esteem, and low self-assertion. The patient was treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy, and he had a good outcome with social and educational reintegration.

Several studies have found that cyber victimization is associated with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and suicidal behavior among youth. Several risk factors have been identified, including low socioeconomic status, disrupted family dynamics, low self-esteem, and psychiatric disorders. Prevention and intervention strategies involve families, educational institutions, civil society, and health professionals.

Conclusions

The seriousness of cyber victimization among youth is undeniable. Early and personalized intervention is necessary to prevent suicidal behavior and restore the well-being of adolescents.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Emotion dysregulation in adolescents: the associations with clinical symptoms, risky-behaviors, and environmental factors
Authors: Pedrini L. , Meloni S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Emotion dysregulation (ED) is transdiagnostic domain that plays a pivotal role in the emergence and persistence of numerous mental disorders. Examining the extent of ED within non-clinical populations may shed light on whether ED is indeed linked to symptoms as observed in clinical settings. This investigation constitutes a crucial milestone toward the development of preventive strategies.

Objectives

To investigate the correlations between ED, psychopathological symptoms, risky behaviors, and environmental factors in adolescent students.

Methods

A total of N=610 students (16 years; 72% females) completed self-report standardized questionnaires measuring depression, anxiety, impulsivity, childhood trauma, relations with classmates, and family functioning. Lifetime risky-behaviours were recorded using an ad-hoc checklist, and ED through Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). The sample was then divided into subgroups based on percentiles of DERS Total scores: N=210 low ED, N=187 moderate, N=214 high.

Results

Participants exhibiting high ED displayed higher level of depression, anxiety and impulsivity (Table 1). There was an observable trend linking higher levels of ED with a greater proportion of youths reporting risky behaviors (Table 2). The high ED group reported an increased frequency of childhood traumatic experiences, less favorable relationships with family members and classmates (Table 3).
Table 1.

Clinical symptoms by level of ED in students (N=610)

low
moderate
high
Sig.
Patient Health Questionnaire
(depression)5.33(±3.51)8.94(±4.05)14.57(±5.53)<.001Screen For Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (anxiety)59.27(±9.61)68.61(±10.88)79.39(±11.61)<.001Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-Brief
(impulsivity)15.14(±3.52)16.70(±3.81)18.01(±4.17)<.001Table 2.

Risky behaviors by level of ED in students (N=610)

low
moderate
high
Sig.Binge drinkingN=73 (29.6%)N=78 (31.6%)N=96 (38.9%).097Self-harm ideationN=35 (13.4%)N=73 (28%)N=153 (58.6%)<.001Self-harm
N=30 (15%)N=49 (24.5%)N=121 (60.5%)<.001Binge eatingN=60 (22.9%)N=78 (29.8%)N=124 (47.3%)<.001Table 3.

Environmental factors by level of ED in students (N=610)

low
moderate
high
Sig.Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (trauma)30.99(±6.89)35.39(±9.1)39.54(±10.94)<.001Child And Adolescent Social Support Scale (classmate)51.19(±11.7)46.55(±10.96)44.91(±12.4)<.001Family Assessment Device (family functioning)117.58(±14)108.8(±17.48)103.38(±20.11)<.001

Conclusions

Findings provide robust support for the association between ED and compromised personal functioning, even within a non-clinical sample. The trend observed in the relationship between ED, clinical symptoms and risky behaviors is consistent across all variables. Overall, these results contribute to the growing body of evidence advocating for preventive interventions aimed at addressing ED in adolescents.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Gender Diversity-Related Mental Health Care: Evidence, Trends, Obstacles
Authors: Başar K.
Published: August 2024

Gender identity may be experienced within a broad spectrum beyond the binary understanding of sex concerning genital characteristics. In people with gender identities not congruent with the gender culturally associated with the sex assigned at birth, distress related to biopsychosocial correlates of this condition may arise. In current diagnostic systems, this is considered within the framework of “Gender Incongruence” (ICD-11) and “Gender Dysphoria” (DSM 5). Although this diversity is known to be present throughout the ages, the terms related to gender identity were introduced to medical literature a hundred years ago. They were popularized with the advances in medical procedures that assist individuals in acquiring physical features aligning with their gender identity and expression. There has been an increase in research interest with increasing numbers in medical centers working on gender-affirmative medical procedures. Starting from the 1970s, international organizations prepared guidelines on the standards of care for trans and gender diverse (TGD) individuals. Despite all the progress in the gender-affirming medical care provided to TGD individuals and the changes in the legal recognition of gender, health inequalities persist globally. The discrepancy in mental and physical health conditions has long been shown to be associated with “minority stress.” The minority stress perspective suggests that distal and proximal chronic stressors arising from society are associated with adverse health outcomes for TGD individuals. Resilience against these stressors is more robust with better coping styles and social support. Lately, structural stigma and discrimination have been shown to be an important source of inequality. Therefore, much more progress is still required with respect to societal inequalities, human rights, and structural transphobia for the improvements in medical care to impact the global health condition of TGD people. However, lately, there have been attempts to restrict TGD individuals’ access to medical care and their legal rights, even if they were not close to the level they ought to be. This backlash mostly sits on the discussion on the management of TGD adolescents and children. Models of care for these age groups have been developed for decades, and despite evidence of the protective and beneficial effects on health and development, in many countries, there are attempts to block their access to medical care. Growing debate on TGD care turned into a political combat, where scientific evidence and human rights perspectives are often ignored. These tendencies present a strong challenge for public health and the professional identity and practice of healthcare professionals.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Projective technique “Bird’s Nest Drawing” in child clinical psychology
Authors: Zvereva M. , Zvereva N. , Sergienko A. , Strogova S. , Klak D. , Antonova E. , Balakireva E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The “Bird’s Nest Drawing” technique is one of expressive drawing projective techniques. In Russia it has been used since the 2020s. We suggest the pilot version of using this projective technique in child clinical psychology. There were investigated the cognitive and emotional components of performance by children with different types of ontogenesis.

Purpose: pilot application of the technique of “Bird’s Nest Drawing” (BND) in the psychological diagnosis of children with different types of ontogenesis.

Objectives

69 children and adolescents 6-17 years old (28 male), examined at the Mental Health Research Center. 1. hospital patients (11-16 years old, 18 persons) diagnoses F20.8, F21.4, 2) outpatient clients with psychological diagnostics (7-16 years old, 45 persons), most of them have psychiatric diagnoses and some of them came for a consultation independently of doctors (there were family and behavior problems). 3) children conceived with the help of assisted reproductive technologies (IVF) - participants in a program for studying cognitive and emotional-personal development (5-13 years old, 8 people). Control group of normal children (14 persons).

Methods

Bird’s Nest Drawing (D.Kaiser, 2003, Kuftyak, 2021) - clinical expert assessment of the drawing parameters (size, location, quality, compliance with instructions) and the emotional component (color, self-assessment of the drawing).

Results

Table 1.

Frequency of different indicators of BND in compared groups of children.

Groups

N
Central place
High Quality of drawing
Nest out of tree
birds /eggs
Different colors
Safety of nest
High Assessment by participants
High positive emotional expression Assessment by expertsHospital patients18 (4 m)12410410**413**5**Outpatient clients45 (22 m)38131917321025**17Children IVF8 (2 m_72436**163Normal children14(6 m)1437412**413**11**

** - significance of the differences (p≤0,05 by φ criterion).

Based on the data obtained, it can be noted that the most different between groups turned out to be an indicator for using different colors, subject’s assessment his picture and emotional expression assessment of picture by experts. Other parameters are similar: please of drawing,

Discussion

We have obtained our own resalts about BND method in children with different type of ontogenesis. These data are similar to D.Kaiser and E.Kuftyak in opportunity of good diagnostic practice of BND method in children and adolescents with different type of ontogenesis in scientific

Conclusions

BND method is a good test for child clinical psychology as a projective one. Restrictions of this investigation - small groups, simple parameters for assessment. We plan to continue this work with more clinical (diagnosis, syndrome et cetera) and sex and age characteristics.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The biological modeling of autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Sidenkova A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are heterogeneous pathological conditions characterized by difficulties in establishing social contacts and the manifestation of repetitive behavior. An atypical trajectory of brain maturation, impaired neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, and an imbalance in the excitatory and inhibitory systems of the CNS form the morphofunctional basis of the ASD

Objectives

scientific publications

Methods

scientific analysis

Results

These pathological changes appear at different stages of brain maturation They are the result of multifactorial environmental influences. To understand the functioning of this complexly organized system in time and space, a three-dimensional model is needed. The closest in vitro model of the human brain from early embryonic stages to aging is brain organoids. Human brain organoids are self-organizing three-dimensional cell aggregates derived from pluripotent stem cells. Organoids summarize neurogenesis, gliogenesis, synaptogenesis, cell migration and cell differentiation, gyrification of the cerebral cortex, reflect the connections of brain regions. The use of a 3D brain model makes it possible to simulate diseases, reactions to drugs in cells obtained from patients. The use of telencephalon organoids in the ASD model revealed that neuronal migration deficiency, acceleration and disruption of cell cycle synchronization, aberrant cell proliferation, abundant synaptogenesis, temporary deviations in the development of the cortex, increased branching of neurons, unbalanced inhibitory differentiation of neurons, high activity of ion channels are the result of impaired activity FOXG1. FOXG1 is responsible for the overproduction of GABAergic neurons. The shift towards GABAergic neurons induced by FOXG1 is positively correlated with the severity of ASD symptoms and is seen as a precursor to the future of ASD

Conclusions

Thus, ASD as a socially significant disease with a heterogeneous type of inheritance, multi-link pathogenesis, realized in different periods of ontogenesis and involving different brain loci, requires special attention of researchers for the personification of diagnosis and therapy. The hiPSCs can provide insight into the cellular mechanisms underlying ASD as a neuropsychiatric disorder, providing access to the development of platforms for in vitro drug screening and patient-tailored therapy.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Watersports Inclusion Games: The Benefits for Participants and the Impact of COVID-19 on Access
Authors: Killalea M. , Warraitch A. , Murphy J. , Barrett E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The Watersports Inclusion Games is a free annual weekend event, where young people with a range of physical and intellectual disabilities and their families/siblings participate in various inclusive watersports activities.

Objectives

This study aims to assess the psychological benefits of watersports for young people with various physical and intellectual disabilities and investigate the extent of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their access to watersports.

Methods

Following a literature review, a survey containing both quantitative and qualitative aspects was constructed using SurveyMonkey and circulated to the parents/guardians of participants three times following the event. The survey was completed anonymously on an opt-in basis and 28 responses that met our criteria for analysis were collected. Qualitative data from free-text responses were grouped under themes and quantitative data was analysed using SPSS.

Results

Despite 64% (n=18) of respondents indicating that their disability increased their vulnerability to COVID-19 in some capacity, the effect of the pandemic on accessibility was not statistically significant. This could be due to the small response number, or the everyday limitations participants faced prior to the pandemic. 92% (n=25) of participants indicated that there was great inclusion in the watersports activities and that they were “very beneficial” regarding the possibility of the whole family’s participation [p=0.005]. The survey also found a statistically significant association between the event’s activities being considered both “accessible” and “very beneficial” in terms of boosting self-confidence, with 57.1% of responses indicating agreement to this. (p=0.016)

Conclusions

Full-family participation and accessibility of activities were key facilitators to the enjoyment and benefit of participants. Programmes should be established that allow able-bodied siblings and young people with disabilities to participate in the same activities.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Impulsivity: A Dimensional Perspective in PD and ED. Comparison of Results in a Case-Control Study.
Authors: Pérez-Lombardo M. , Alberdi-Páramo Í. , Ayad-Ahmed W. , Carrasco-Perera J. L. , Díaz-Marsá M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Personality Disorders (PD) - specifically Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and certain Eating Disorders (ED) share common clinical features. One of these features is impulsivity, studied individually in each diagnostic group, and scarcely used to encompass specific profiles of these patients.

Understanding the common clinical variables of this patient population would facilitate therapeutic efforts and enable greater precision regarding the prognosis of these patients.

Objectives

This study aims to study impulsivity in a group collectively formed by BPD and ED, compared to a control group, in contrast to the individualized study approach typically conducted in the literature.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study is conducted to assess impulsivity as a common diagnostic variable in a group of PD and ED in comparison with a healthy control group. The sample was collected between 2016 and 2019 at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos, totaling 108 subjects.

Results

A statistically significant difference is observed (p<0.005 in all scales) in total impulsivity, cognitive impulsivity, motor impulsivity, and unplanned impulsivity in the cases group comprising patients diagnosed with PD and ED, compared to the control group from the general population.

Conclusions

Impulsivity is closely related to the concept of borderline personality disorder. This analysis also includes eating disorders, with the difference from the control group still statistically significant.

The presence of common clinical variables in these groups (PD and ED) may have clinical and therapeutic implications that differ from those pursued thus far. This allows moving away from the categorical model and understanding these disorders from a more enriching and advanced dimensional perspective.”

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Exploring the connections between psychiatric disorders and climate change
Authors: Marinić I. , Mužinić Marinić L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Considering the increased occurrence of climate changes in the world and their consequences on human health and quality of life, there is an increase in psychiatric disorders, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and stress related disorders caused by climate changes.

Objectives

To explore the connections between psychiatric disorders and certain types of climate change.

Methods

Data from research related to climate change and its impact on mental health are presented.

Results

Research indicates an increase in psychological disorders related to climate change from several diagnostic categories, consequently to the acute and long-term effects of climate changes, depending on the type of climate event, individual sensitivity, socioeconomic conditions, community support and assistance, and response to therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions

In addition to raising awareness of the impact of climate change on psychological health, it is important to develop strategies for providing psychological and psychiatric assistance, both immediately after a climate event and during long-term exposure to adverse climate conditions, especially for vulnerable groups.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Impact of addictive comorbidity on bipolar disorder type I
Authors: Adouni A. , Zgueb Y. , Ben Othman F. , Bouguerra I. , Jomli R.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Among all mental pathologies, bipolar disorder (BD) is the one in which addictive comorbidity is most frequent.

Recent studies suggest that this comorbidity has harmful consequences, threatening patients’ quality of life.

Objectives

Describe addictive comorbidity and determine its prevalence in a population of patients with BD I.

Study the impact of addictive comorbidity on the evolution of BD I.

Methods

A cross-sectional, comparative study was conducted over a six-month period in the after-care unit of psychiatric wards at Razi Hospital, including patients treated for BD I according to DSM 5 criteria and stable on treatment.

The study included two phases: first, sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic characteristics were collected using a pre-established form. The CAGE, DUDIT and MARS scales, validated in Arabic, were then administered.

Results

We included 100 patients (60 men and 40 women) with a mean age of 43.55 years.

Substance use disorder (SUD) was reported in 31% of our population; 22 alcohol users with a mean CAGE score of 1.23 (0-3), while psychoactive substance use was reported in 19 patients with a mean DUDIT score of 13.37 (0-28).

Forensic history was higher in the group of patients with comorbid SUD (p<0.001). Poor compliance with treatment and irregular follow-up were also significantly more associated with addictive behavior, respectively p=0.008 and p=0.048.

We found no association between SUD and suicidal behavior or evolutionary symptoms of the disorder.

Conclusions

SUD are generally factors in the poor prognosis of BD. It is important to identify the determinants of this comorbidity, so that these risk factors can be appropriately targeted through appropriate therapeutic interventions and thus limit these negative consequences.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Concurrent Gender Dysphoria/Incongruence and Autism Spectrum Disorder, a literature review
Authors: Clementi N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Several studies have found that ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and GD (Gender Dysphoria by DSM-V)/GI (Gender Incongruence by ICD-11) tend to co-occur, and in recent years the interest and publications on this comorbidity has increased rapidly.

Objectives

To review the prevalence of ASD in individual with a diagnosis of GD/GI.

To better tailor and improve care offered in the National Health Service (NHS) Gender Identity Clinics (GICs) throughout the UK.

Methods

Systematic literature review was conducted via Pub Med, MEDLINE and PsycINFO by the author, for all English-language articles published between 2018 and 2023, containing keywords as ASD, GD (Gender Dysphoria), GI (Gender Incongruence), transgender, autistic traits, autism, gender diversity, gender variance.

Results

Rate of people with ASD appear to be higher in people accessing Gender Identity Clinics (GICs) than in the general population. Results from this literature review show increased prevalence of GD and GI in ASD population.

Conclusions

This comorbidity has highlighted the importance of better tailor transgender healthcare services for people with neurodevelopmental conditions and neurodiversity, to avoid delay in ASD individuals accessing care and gender affirming medical treatments. Services should strive to provide an effective and equitable service. It is also important to better identify potential barriers for ASD people in accessing gender care. Literature also shows the people with ASD have more difficulties in communicating and describing their gender narrative and to express their wishes for gender treatments. Symptoms including problems in communications and social skills, obsession and rigidity can also impact their assessment of GD/GI in gender identity services. Some studies showed that for individuals who have concurrent ASD and GD/GI, assessment in GICs may be extended to better review their wishes for gender identity and for gender affirming treatment. Further research is needed to better investigate and understand factors explaining the relationship between ASD and gender diversity. There is still limited research in the real life experiences of gender diverse and autistic people. There is also a need to improve Gender reassignment protocol nationally to better care for individual with ASD and GD/GI throughout GICs in the UK.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Mesenchymal Vangl1 and Vangl2 facilitate airway elongation and widening independently of the planar cell polarity complex
Authors: Paramore Sarah V. , Goodwin Katharine , Fowler Eric W. , Devenport Danelle , Nelson Celeste M.
Published: August 2024

Adult mammalian lungs exhibit a fractal pattern, as each successive generation of airways is a fraction of the size of the parental branch. Achieving this structure likely requires precise control of airway length and diameter, as the embryonic airways initially lack the fractal scaling observed in the adult. In monolayers and tubes, directional growth can be regulated by the planar cell polarity (PCP) complex. Here, we characterized the roles of PCP complex components in airway initiation, elongation and widening during branching morphogenesis of the lung. Using tissue-specific knockout mice, we surprisingly found that branching morphogenesis proceeds independently of PCP complex function in the lung epithelium. Instead, we found a previously unreported Celsr1-independent role for the PCP complex components Vangl1 and Vangl2 in the pulmonary mesenchyme, where they are required for branch initiation, elongation and widening. Our data thus reveal an explicit function for Vangl1 and Vangl2 that is independent of the core PCP complex, suggesting a functional diversification of PCP complex components in vertebrate development. These data also reveal an essential role for the embryonic mesenchyme in generating the fractal structure of airways in the mature lung.
MUM, a maternal unknown message, inhibits early establishment of the medio-lateral axis in the embryo of the kelp Saccharina latissima
Authors: Boscq Samuel , Billoud Bernard , Theodorou Ioannis , Joemmanbaks Tanweer , Dufourt Tanguy , Charrier Bénédicte
Published: August 2024

Brown algae are multicellular photosynthetic organisms that have evolved independently of plants and other algae. Here, we have studied the determinism of body axis formation in the kelp Saccharina latissima. After microdissection of the embryo, we show that the stalk, an empty cell that retains the embryo on the maternal tissue, represses longitudinal cell divisions in the early embryo, thereby reinforcing the establishment of the initial apico-basal axis. In addition, it promotes cell growth and controls cell shape and arrangement in the flat oblong embryo composed of cells aligned in rows and columns. Although the stalk persists for several weeks until the embryo reaches at least 500 cells, proper embryogenesis requires connection to maternal tissue only during the first 4 days after fertilisation, i.e. before the embryo reaches the 8-cell stage. Transplantation experiments indicate that the maternal signal is not diffused in seawater, but requires contact between the embryo and the maternal tissue. This first global quantitative study of brown algal embryogenesis highlights the role of MUM, an unknown maternal message, in the control of growth axes and tissue patterning in kelp embryos.
UNC-30/PITX coordinates neurotransmitter identity with postsynaptic GABA receptor clustering
Authors: Correa Edgar , Mialon Morgane , Cizeron Mélissa , Bessereau Jean-Louis , Pinan-Lucarre Berangere , Kratsios Paschalis
Published: August 2024

Terminal selectors are transcription factors that control neuronal identity by regulating expression of key effector molecules, such as neurotransmitter biosynthesis proteins and ion channels. Whether and how terminal selectors control neuronal connectivity is poorly understood. Here, we report that UNC-30 (PITX2/3), the terminal selector of GABA nerve cord motor neurons in Caenorhabditis elegans, is required for neurotransmitter receptor clustering, a hallmark of postsynaptic differentiation. Animals lacking unc-30 or madd-4B, the short isoform of the motor neuron-secreted synapse organizer madd-4 (punctin/ADAMTSL), display severe GABA receptor type A (GABAAR) clustering defects in postsynaptic muscle cells. Mechanistically, UNC-30 acts directly to induce and maintain transcription of madd-4B and GABA biosynthesis genes (e.g. unc-25/GAD, unc-47/VGAT). Hence, UNC-30 controls GABAA receptor clustering in postsynaptic muscle cells and GABA biosynthesis in presynaptic cells, transcriptionally coordinating two crucial processes for GABA neurotransmission. Further, we uncover multiple target genes and a dual role for UNC-30 as both an activator and a repressor of gene transcription. Our findings on UNC-30 function may contribute to our molecular understanding of human conditions, such as Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome, caused by PITX2 and PITX3 gene variants.
Development of sound production in Danionella cerebrum
Authors: Groneberg Antonia H. , Dressler Lena E. , Kadobianskyi Mykola , Müller Julie , Judkewitz Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Acoustic signalling, integral to intraspecific communication and reproductive behaviour, undergoes notable changes during an animal's ontogenetic development. The onset and progression of this maturation in fish remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the ontogeny of acoustic communication in the miniature teleost Danionella cerebrum, one of the smallest known vertebrates and an emerging model organism. Its adult males produce audible clicks that appear in sequences with a repetition rate of ∼60 or ∼120 Hz, caused by consecutive unilateral or alternating bilateral compressions of the swim bladder. To investigate the maturation of this ability, we performed long-term sound recordings and morphological studies of the sound production apparatus in D. cerebrum throughout its ontogenetic development. We found that fish start producing clicks during the second month of their lives and continually increase their abundance and structured repetition over the course of the following 1 to 2 months. The sound production machinery, including specialised bone and cartilage structures, starts to form in males after approximately 4 weeks and prior to reaching sexual maturity. Although clicks increase in amplitude as animals mature, click repetition rates of 60 and 120 Hz are stable throughout development. This suggests fully mature pattern generation in juvenile males, yet a continued development of the drumming apparatus capable of creating louder sounds.
Hormones, Hypertrophy, and Hype: An Evidence-Guided Primer on Endogenous Endocrine Influences on Exercise-Induced Muscle Hypertrophy
Authors: Van Every Derrick W. , D’Souza Alysha C. , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: August 2024

We review the evidence indicating that endogenous changes in these hormones, including testosterone, growth hormone, insulin growth factor-1, and estrogen, and their proposed anabolic effects contribute to and augment resistance exercise training (RET)-induced hypertrophy. Additionally, we provide recommendations for gold-standard methodological rigor to establish best practices for verifying menstrual phases as part of their research, ultimately enhancing our understanding of the impact of ovarian hormones on RET-induced adaptations.
Clinical use of autologous cell-based therapies in an evolving regulatory landscape: A survey of patient experiences and perceptions
Authors: Ogbogu Ubaka , Case Nevicia
Published: August 2024

Background: Clinical treatments involving autologous cell-based therapies (ACBT) remain prevalent despite a lack of scientific backing and an evolving regulatory landscape aimed at assessing their safety and efficacy for clinical adoption. This study seeks to assess patients’ experiences and perceptions of clinical treatments involving ACBT and their knowledge and views of the regulatory context and associated governance issues. Methods: An anonymous online survey of 181 participants who have been treated or are in the process of being treated with ACBT was conducted. Recruitment was via social media platforms. Data was collected through Qualtrics and analyzed using SPSS 29 for the quantitative responses and NVivo 1.7.1 for the qualitative responses. Results: Several themes emerged from the data, including the prominent role of healthcare providers throughout the patient journey, informational practices during the clinical encounter, the high prevalence of pay-for-participation trials, patients’ gaps in regulatory knowledge, and patients’ priorities regarding clinical trials and regulation of ACBT. Conclusions: The study makes a novel contribution to the literature by providing the first analysis of patients’ experiences and perceptions of an emerging cell-based therapy within an evolving regulatory landscape. The findings serve as a valuable resource for developing policy, promoting scientific rigor, and ensuring ethical oversight of ACBT and other upcoming cell-based therapies.
Molecular docking studies and molecular dynamic simulation analysis: To identify novel ATP-competitive inhibition of Glycogen synthase kinase-3β for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Shri Suggala Ramya , Nayak Yogendra , Ranganath Pai Sreedhara
Published: August 2024

Background The discovery of an ideal and effective therapy is urgently required for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The main pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease that appear before the clinical symptoms are neurofibrillary tangles, amyloid plaques, brain inflammation, and neuronal atrophy throughout the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. GSK-3β (Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β) is regarded as the most important and promising target for therapeutic use because GSK-3β expression levels increase with age and are the most abundant and hyperactive in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Methods We used Maestro, which is Schrodinger, for our computational simulation studies. In the present work, we have used different modules that were used in previous studies with a little modification, the modules such as Protein Preparation with the help of Protein Preparation Wizard, Ligand Preparation with the help of LigPrep, for ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion) prediction we used Qikprop, Docking studies we used Glide module, Binding energy prediction we used Prime and Molecular dynamic simulation studies by Desmond Results Our focus is mainly on an in-silico approach, focusing on library generation; we first drew an imidazo [1,5-a]pyridine-3-carboxamide (IMID 2) scaffold structure at Enamine and subjected it to a substructure search to target the receptor grid region (ATP-competitive site) of 6Y9R. They were then subjected to various screening processes. Finally, we selected nine compounds and subjected them to molecular dynamic simulation studies. Conclusions Nine compounds showed good results with the most stable interactions. Further experiments and studies are required to confirm these results.
Introduction to Decision Theory
Authors: Vlasov Dmitriy
Published: August 2024

The textbook in a simple and accessible form examines the basic concepts, approaches, concepts of the theory of decision-making and presents its applications in economics, finance and management. Particular attention is paid to the logic of the decision-making process, in particular, the procedure for generating alternatives, choosing optimality criteria, clarifying the information conditions for decision-making, identifying the role of the subjectivity of the LPR in decision-making. The mathematical apparatus, which acts as an instrumental basis for decision-making and is disclosed in this manual, has distinct and accessible economic applications for undergraduate students.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
The textbook is addressed to undergraduate students of economic and managerial fields who need to get acquainted with the basic techniques and methods of decision-making, but it can be useful to students of other fields of study, as well as to anyone who has a lack of competence in quantitative methods and mathematical modeling.
Prawo do prywatności a regulacje antyterrorystyczne w demokratycznym państwie prawa
Authors: Karakulski Jacek
Published: August 2024

This monograph is built around a central hypothesis based on the statement that the perspective of a terrorism threat causes a far-reaching limitation of the right to privacy possessing in this particular case a specific protection standard. Although it is relatively trivial on the surface, in reality none of its elements are obvious. Firstly, it is not – from a scientific point of view – academically clear what terrorism, and therefore the threat of terrorism, or even more precisely the risk of terrorism offences, is. Secondly, the right to privacy is a multifaceted right that is very difficult to define. Thirdly, answering the question concerning the specificity of the protection standard requires not only to establish what such standard is in general, but also to thoroughly verify whether its specificity is not merely a logical consequence of the threats’ nature and in fact does not contain any deviation from the familiar principles of legitimate legislators’ intrusion into the sphere of constitutional (and also internationally recognised) individual rights and freedoms.
Homicidio selectivo: modalidad de violencia urbana en Buenaventura 2000-2015
Authors: Arias Botero Waldor Federico , Montoya Duque Gloria Inés , Huffington Arroyo Dennis Arley
Published: August 2024

El artículo estudia el homicidio selectivo, modalidad de violencia urbana, y sus formas conexas en el distrito de Buenaventura 2000-2015. Este hace uso de conceptos como actores, formas de acción, intereses y escenarios de la violencia urbana. La metodología es mixta, a partir de bases de datos agregados del Centro Nacional de Memoria Histórica (cnmh) y la base documental elaborada con prensa local, regional y nacional. Los resultados muestran la prevalencia del homicidio selectivo dirigido hacia miembros de organizaciones y líderes sociales, retaliaciones entre grupos armados y crimen organizado relacionado con cultivos ilícitos y delincuencia común. Entre 2002 y 2005 se expresa con más intensidad, y las masacres y desapariciones son mayores entre 2006 y 2010. A modo de conclusión, el homicidio selectivo se vincula a actividades ilícitas, a intereses políticos y a la acción de grupos armados de distinta índole como expresiones de poder hacia individuos con identidades sociales y sus organizaciones vistas como adversarios.
Acute effects of breaking up sitting time with isometric exercise on cognition in healthy adults
Authors: Silva Gustavo Oliveira da , Carvalho Juliana Ferreira de , Cunha Paolo Marcello , Cucato Gabriel Grizzo , Kanegusuku Hélcio , Correia Marilia de Almeida
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze the acute effects of different sitting break strategies on cognition in healthy adults. Twelve physically inactive adults (8 women, 28 ± 9 years; 25.10 ± 4.90 kg/m²) randomly completed three 3 hour conditions: 2-min isometric leg extension exercise sitting breaks at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction every 30-min; 2-min light-intensity walking sitting breaks every 30-min; sitting without breaks. Stroop and Eriksen Flanker tests were used to measure cognition before and after conditions. Generalized estimated equations were used to analyze cognition responses. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Stroop congruent phase decreased for all conditions (Isometric: 1.56 ± 0.20s Pre vs 1.49 ± 0.12s Post; Walking: 1.67 ± 0.22s Pre vs 1.54 ± 0.19s Post; Control: 1.69 ± 0.24s Pre vs 1.59 ± 0.26s Post; p = 0.044). There were no significant effects on Stroop incongruent phase, Stroop effect, or Eriksen-Flanker (p > 0.05 for all). In conclusion, walking or isometric exercise sitting breaks do not acutely improve cognition in healthy adults.
Code and Data Repository for VRPSolverEasy: A Python Library for the Exact Solution of a Rich Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Errami Najib , Queiroga Eduardo , Sadykov Ruslan , Uchoa Eduardo
Published: August 2024

VRPSolverEasy is a Python package which provides a simple interface for VRPSolver, a state-of-the-art Branch-Cut-and-Price exact solver for vehicle routing problems (VRPs). The simplified interface is accessible for users without operations research background, meaning you do not need to know how to model your problem as an Integer Programming problem. As a price to pay for the simplicity, this interface is restricted to some standard VRP variants, which involve the following features and their combinations: capacitated vehicles customer time windows heterogeneous fleet multiple depots open routes optional customers with penalties parallel links to model transition time/cost trade-off incompatibilities between vehicles and customers customers with alternative locations and/or time windows To our knowledge, VRPSolver is the most efficient exact solver available for VRPs. Its particularity is to focus on finding and improving a lower bound on the optimal solution value of your instance. It is less efficient in finding feasible solutions but still can be better than available heuristic solvers for non-classic VRP variants.