bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 induced psychosis. Should we be concerned?
Authors: Costa P. , Pinto I. , Branco P.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Coronaviruses traditionally are considered to cause pulmonary diseases, often accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms. Since the COVID-19 pandemic start in early 2020, there have been reports of a high prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms. Recent data show significant rates of neuropsychiatric diagnosis over the subsequent 6 months post-infection. Some of the data suggest the COVID-19 as a cause of new-onset psychotic symptoms in patients with no psychiatric history. Delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thoughts, and confusion were the most frequently reported psychotic features which low doses of antipsychotics seem to be helpful.

Objectives

Brief literature review about the relationship between COVID-19 and new-onset psychotic symptomatology.

Methods

Non-systematic review through PubMed research using the terms “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”, “pandemics”, “psychotic symptoms” and “psychosis”.

Results

The severity of the infection, especially in those with the need for hospitalization/intensive care, seems to have a clear effect on the gravity of subsequent neuropsychiatric symptoms, namely psychosis. Viral invasion of the central neural system, hypercoagulable states, and neuroinflammation are potential associated mechanisms. It’s important to consider the effect of therapies that may have the potential to cause psychosis (eg steroids). According to recent literature, around 0.9-4% of people exposed to the COVID-19 virus develop psychotic episodes, which is much higher than the incidence in the general population.

Conclusions

Post-COVID-19 related psychosis has been reported in different nations. The pathophysiology is yet not clear, although the hyperinflammatory response has been suggested as the main mechanism for the neuropsychiatric manifestations. Given the high number of case reports with similar presentations, it’s important to proceed with more investigations.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The Investigation of Cognitive Functions and Clinical High Risk Status for Psychosis in First-Degree Relatives of Patients with Substance Induced Psychotic Disorder
Authors: Çukurova M. , Özdemir A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The etiology of substance-induced psychotic disorder (SIPD) is an important research area to study.

Objectives

It is aimed to investigate clinical risk status for psychosis, schizotypal features and neurocognitive functions in siblings of the patients who have been diagnosed as SIPD and who have no family history of psychotic spectrum disorder.

Methods

This study included 41 healthy siblings of patients who have been diagnosed as SIPD according to DSM-V and 41 healthy controls without family history of psychiatric disorders (matched on age, gender, and years of education). The data collected with sociodemographic and clinical data form, Digid Span Test, Trail Making Test A, Trail Making Test B, Verbal Fluency Test and Stroop Test, Comprehensive Assesment of At-Risk Mental States (CAARMS) and Structured Interview for Schizotypy-Revised.

Results

It is determined that %41.5 of siblings and %7.3 of healthy controls are in one of the clinical high risk groups for psychosis according to CAARMS. There is significant difference in Trail Making Test A error and Trail Making Test B error and correction, verbal fluency test- lexical fluency-perseveration mean scores between siblings of patients and healthy controls.

Conclusions

Siblings of patients with SIPD have more schizotypal features than healthy control group and they take part more frequent in one of high risk group for psychosis. Schizotypal features are known as trait factor and show genetic predisposition. Siblings who are in high risk groups have more schizotypal features and it may point that predisposition to psychosis is more related to underlying genetic predisposition than environmental factors and social stressors.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Real-world treatment patterns and outcomes in patients initiating lurasidone for the treatment of schizophrenia in Europe
Authors: Jones A. , Sargeant M. , Andiappan M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Lurasidone is a second-generation antipsychotic shown to have a lower risk of weight gain and a lower incidence of metabolic adverse events compared with some medications in the same class.

Objectives

To describe treatment patterns, clinical outcomes and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) over 12 months following lurasidone initiation in patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

This was a multi-centre observational study involving data collection from patients’ medical records, conducted in seven mental health centres in the United Kingdom (UK) and Switzerland. The study included patients aged ≥18 years who initiated lurasidone after 1 January 2016 for the treatment of schizophrenia. Data were collected from medical records both retrospectively and prospectively using a standardised data collection form. Data collected included patient characteristics, treatment history, lurasidone regimens, clinical outcomes and ADRs.

Results

Forty-eight patients participated in the study. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age at lurasidone initiation was 33.5 (25.5-50.3) years and 31 (65%) patients were male. The median (range) lurasidone starting dose was 37 mg daily (9.3–148 mg). Thirty-eight (79%) patients continued lurasidone for the entire 12-month follow-up period. Among the 14 (29%) patients with documented relapse, the median (IQR) time to relapse was 3.4 (1.5–7.9) months. Five ADRs were recorded in patient notes judged as related to lurasidone: agitation, nausea, akathisia, somnolence and vomiting (one patient each).

Conclusions

In this real-world study of patients with schizophrenia in the UK and Switzerland, 79% of patients continued lurasidone for at least 12 months, and ADRs were reported rarely in patient notes.

Disclosure

This study was sponsored by CNX Therapeutics Ltd (formerly Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Europe Ltd). AJ is an employee of CNX Therapeutics. MA is an employee of OPEN HEALTH who was contracted by CNX Therapeutics for data analysis and medical writing.
“Part of the solution yet part of the problem” Stigmatization in mental health professionals: characteristics and associated factors
Authors: Valery K.-M. , Prouteau A. , Violeau L. , Fournier T. , Guionnet S.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The consequences of schizophrenia stigma are numerous and highly damaging to individuals, their families, the health care system and society. Mental health professionals (MHP) are considered to be one of the main sources of schizophrenia stigmatization.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to identify individual and contextual factors associated with stigmatization in MHP in its three dimensions.

Methods

An online survey was conducted with specific measures of MHP stigmatization (stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination). Four categories of potential associated factors were also measured: sociodemographic information, contextual characteristics (e.g. work setting), individual characteristics (e.g. profession, recovery-oriented practices) and theoretical beliefs (e.g. biological beliefs, perceived similarities, continuum beliefs). Models of prediction were computed when applicable.

Results

Responses of 357 MHP were analysed. The main factors associated with stigmatization (stereotypes, prejudice) in MHP are of two types: i) individual beliefs (about mental illness: biological etiological beliefs, categorical beliefs; or about MHP themselves: professional utility beliefs, similarity beliefs) and ii) characteristics of practices (recovery oriented practice, work setting, profession).

Conclusions

These original results suggest new strategies for reducing stigma in mental health practices such as focusing on individual beliefs and fostering recovery-oriented practice and professional utility beliefs.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The adaptation of The parental reflective functioning questionnaire adolescent version to the Hungarian language and presentation of its psychometric characteristics
Authors: Szabó B. , Miklósi M. , Boda M. , Futó J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Parental reflective function is the ability of a parent to attribute mental states to their child and to themselves. The Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire is widely used for the measurement of this construct, the adolescent version of which can be used by parents of children aged 12-18.

Objectives

The aim of our research was to adapt the adolescent version of The Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire to the Hungarian language.

Methods

In our study 240 mothers completed the adolescent version of The Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (PRFQ-A), and the Reflective Function Questionnaire (RFQ).

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis did not confirm the original three-factor structure. The principal component analysis resulted in a two-factor structure. Factors corresponded to the original questionnaire’s certainty in mental states (Alpha = .81) and interest and curiosity subscales (Alpha = .70). When analyzing the relationship between parental reflective function and reflective function, the subscales of the parental reflective function questionnaire were examined with two types of median coding in addition to polar coding. During the first median coding, the frequency of scores in the middle of the scales reflected optimal mentalization, while the frequency of extreme values on the scales corresponded to less favorable reflective functioning. With the second median coding, hypermentalization and hypomentalization subscales were also created. The second median transcoding proved to be the most suitable for capturing the relationship between RFQ and PRFQ-A.

Conclusions

The questionnaire proved to be a reliable measure on the Hungarian sample and we recommend using the additional subscales.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Prevalence of schizophrenia spectrum disorders among adults in the Lazio region, Italy: use of an algorithm based on health information systems
Authors: Forastiere A. , Cascini S. , Calandrini E. , Agabiti N. , Davoli M. , Bargagli A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Mental healthcare provision is undergoing substantial reconfiguration in many regions of the world. Such changes require a broad evidence-based approach incorporating epidemiological data and information of local needs.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) in the Lazio region and its geographical distribution using the regional health information systems (HIS).

Methods

Cases of SSDs (15-64-year-old) were identified using an algorithm based on data from the hospital discharge registry [ICD IX CM: 295, 297, 298 (excl. 298.0)] and the ticket exemption database [code 044], between 2006 and 2019. Crude, and age- and gender-specific prevalence estimates on December 31, 2019, were calculated. To compare prevalence between different areas within the region, we calculated age- and gender-adjusted prevalence rates

Results

A total of 18,371 cases were identified. Crude prevalence rate was 4.29/1,000 (95% CI 4.29-4.30) and 5.93/1,000 (95% CI 5.92-5.949 for women and men, respectively. An increase in the prevalence rate by age was observed in both genders. The age- and gender-adjusted prevalence rate was 5.03/1,000 (95 % CI 4.96-5.10), with significant differences within the region, ranging from 4.25/1,000 in the province of Viterbo to 5.42/1,000 in the city of Rome and 6.02/1000 in the province of Frosinone.

Conclusions

Our results showed that the overall prevalence of SSDs among adults in the Lazio region is similar to estimates published in prior reviews, but an uneven regional geographical distribution was observed. While possible underestimation must be considered, HIS represents a valuable source of information useful for epidemiological surveillance and healthcare planning.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
For Personality Disorders
Authors: Treasure J.
Published: September 2022

The number of diagnostic categories of eating disorders have increased over time. The term transdiagnostic has been commonly used for eating disorders as in general they share problematic eating patterns and variations in weight. However, there are also extreme differences, for instance in the realm of personality style. One example of contrasts is the polygenic correlation with ADHD which is positive in binge eating disorders and absent in anorexia nervosa. This is concordant with the clinical presentation whereby AN is associated with compulsive, rigid perfectionistic features consistent with an obsessive-compulsive personality style whereas BED is associated with impulsivity. ARFID and AN have features that overlap with characteristics of autistic spectrum disorders. Nevertheless, traits of neuroticism are shared across eating disorders and other psychiatric disorders. Another contrast is in the exposure to adversity in childhood. People with binge eating disorder have many forms of childhood adversity including the ramifications of weight stigma and this leaves an imprint on personality development. Thus, there is no one size that fits all in terms of the unfolding links between personality and eating disorders.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The association between social support and antenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms among Australian women
Authors: Tilahune A. , Peng W. , Adams J. , Sibbritt D.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Antenatal depression and antenatal anxiety adversely affect several obstetric and foetal outcomes, and increase the rate of postnatal mental illness. Thus, to tackle these challenges the need for social support during pregnancy is vital.

Objectives

This study examined the association between domains of social support and antenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms among Australian women.

Methods

Our study used data obtained from the 1973–78 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (ALSWH), focusing upon women who reported being pregnant (n=493). Depression and anxiety were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D-10) scale, and the 9-item Goldberg Anxiety and Depression scale (GADS) respectively. The 19 item-Medical Outcomes Study Social Support index (MOSS) was used to assess social support. A binary logistic regression model was used to examine the associations between domains of social support and antenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, our study found that the odds of antenatal depressive symptoms was about four and threefold higher among pregnant women who reported low emotional/informational support (AOR=4.75; 95% CI: 1.45, 15.66; p=0.010) and low social support (overall support) (AOR: 3.26, 95%CI: 1.05, 10.10, p=0.040) respectively compared with their counterpart. In addition, the odds of antenatal anxiety symptoms was seven times higher among pregnant women who reported low affectionate support/positive social interaction (AOR=7.43; 95%CI: 1.75, 31.55; p=0.006).

Conclusions

Low emotional support and low affectionate support have a significant association with antenatal depressive and anxiety symptoms respectively. As such, targeted screening of expectant women for social support is essential.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The association between long term intake of ultra-processed foods and recurrence of depressive symptoms in the Whitehall II cohort
Authors: Arshad H. , Akbaraly T.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

High amounts of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF) characterized Western type diet and have recently been associated with adverse cardio-metabolic outcomes. The extent to which UPF intakes affect Depressive Symptoms (DepS) in non-Mediterranean countries remains uninvestigated.

Objectives

We aimed to study whether long-term intake of UPF over adult life 1) is associated with subsequent recurrence of DepS assessed over 13 years of follow-up and 2) contribute to explain the diet quality-DepS associations already established.

Methods

Data came from the 4554 participants (mean age=61.0 (SD=5.9) years; 74% men) from the Whitehall II Study who underwent repeated dietary intake assessment (food frequency questionnaire in 1991-1993, 1997-1999 and 2002-2004), and follow-up for recurrence of DepS (CES-D ≥ 16 or use of antidepressants) over 13 years (2002-2004 and 2015-2016). The NOVA classification was used to estimate UPF intakes.

Results

Over 13 years of follow-up, 12.9% of participants reported having recurrence of DepS. Results of logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders showed that high amounts of UPF intakes (top quintile versus the four last ones) increased the odds of recurrent DepS by 30 % (95%CI 1.05 - 1.61). Additional analyses suggested that UPF intakes did not attenuate much the overall diet quality–DepS association previously reported.

Conclusions

Our study showed that long term exposure to high UPF intakes increased odds of subsequent recurrent DepS. This association was independent of overall diet quality. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms between food processing and depression physiopathology.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
i-ECO: a novel method for the analysis and visualization of fMRI results in Psychiatry
Authors: Tarchi L. , Fantoni T. , Pisano T. , Damiani S. , La Torraca Vittori P. , Marini S. , Nazzicari N. , Castellini G. , Politi P. , Ricca V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The high technical barrier to entry in the field of neuroimaging can hinder early insight from promising results and the development of evidence-based clinical practice.

Objectives

The working group focused on published literature in order to develop a new methodology in the analysis, visualization, and representation of fMRI data in the psychiatric setting.

Methods

Three valid and established measures were chosen, in order to achieve dimensionality reduction, stability and explainability of results, namely Regional-Homogeneity; fractional Amplitude of Low-Frequency Fluctuations; Eigenvector-Centrality. Each measure was color coded and individual images per subject compiled, averaging results by functional networks as described the FIND lab of the University of Stanford. 272 individual scans were processed (130 neurotypicals, 50 patients with Schizophrenia, 49 with Bipolar Disorder, 43 with ADHD).

Results

The discriminative power between clinical groups of the novel method was significant both by human eye, and later confirmation by statistical tests, and by computer vision algorithms (Convolutional Neural Networks). The precision-recall Area Under the Curve, dividing by 80/20 proportion between train and test sets, was >84.5% for each group. The group of patients with Bipolar Disorder showed a partial overlap with the group of patients suffering from Schizophrenia – by a dominance of Eigenvector-Centrality and Regional-Homogeneity, as well as a lower prevalence of fractional Amplitude of Low-Frequency Fluctuations, for both in comparison to controls.

Conclusions

The present study offers preliminary evidence for the adoption of i-ECO (integrated-Explainability through Color Coding) in fMRI analyses during rest in the Psychiatric field.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The effect of antidepressant treatment on white matter integrity in Major Depression
Authors: Tourjman S. , Potvin S. , Milan R. , Kouassi E. , Luck D.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

White matter abnormalities have been identified in major depressive disorder (MDD). Although several diffusion tensor imaging studies found decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) in MDD, the effect of antidepressants (AD) treatment on white matter integrity has been insufficiently studied.

Objectives

We sought to examine the effect of AD treatment of MDD on white matter, using DTI, in responders compared to nonresponders.

Methods

We included 25 individuals with MDD (HAMD >/=20) without inflammatory, unstable medical/neurological conditions or prolonged duration (> 1 year),or AD or anti-inflammatory treatment >/=1 week preceding first evaluation. Evaluation before treatment and at 16 weeks included depression rating scales, a cognitive battery, inflammatory markers and MRI. Desvenlafaxine was initiated at 50mg with a possible increase to 100mg at 8 weeks.

Results

Changes included: increased volume in responders in the right Inferior Fronto-Occipital fasciculus (p=0.0315) and Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus part 3 (p=0.0050); in remitters in the right Inferior Fronto-Occipital fasciculus (p=0.0359) and Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus part 2 (p<0.05) and 3 (p=0.0481); decreased volume in responders in the left Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus part 1 (p=0.0147) and left Corona Radiata(p<0.05); and in remitters in the left Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus part 1 (p=0.0109) and the Corpus Callosum part 5 (p<0.05); decreased FA in the right Cortico Spinal Tract in remitters (p=0.0175) and responders (p=0.0272), and an increase in FA in the left Uncinate Fasciculus in nonremitters (p=0.0493). These results lose significance following Bonferroni correction.

Conclusions

Overall, AD treatment of MDD was not associated with significant changes in FA, whole brain, or specific tract volume in this study.

Disclosure

This research was funded by Pfizer Canada.
Migration and psychosis: the link between them
Authors: De Andrés Lobo C. , Jiménez Aparicio T. , Vallecillo Adame C. , Gonzaga Ramírez A. , Guerra Valera G. , Santos Carrasco I. , Gonçalves Cerejeira J. , Fernández Lozano M. , Rodríguez Rodríguez B. , Navarro Barriga N. , Mateos Sexmero M.J. , De Uribe Viloria N.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Migrations are a source of stress for patients, which can have repercussions on their Mental Health. We present the case of a native Senegalese patient who presented a first psychotic episode.

Objectives

Presentation of a clinical case of an immigrant patient with a psychotic disorder.

Methods

Bibliographic review on migration and psychosis by searching for articles in Pubmed.

Results

We present the case of a patient of 20 years, a native of Senegal, who has been living in Spain for 3 months in a shelter home. He has no family or relations in Spain, and only speaks Wolof, presenting serious difficulties in communication with healthcare workers. He came to Hospital with his social worker because strange behaviors had been observed. He presented delusional ideation of self-referential and mystical-religious content, related to “the prophet” and “the need to fulfill a mission”. He also presented auditory hallucinations that he identified as of divine origin, and ordered him to perform behaviors such as picking hairs from the ground and various rituals. He acknowledges cannabis and alcohol use in the previous days. Paliperidone treatment was started. Throughout the admission, he begins to show concern for the state of his relatives in Senegal and the need to send them money.

Conclusions

Multiple studies indicate that migrants are at higher risk of psychosis, specially those from countries where the majority of population was black, according to some series. The challenge lies in understanding the mechanisms underlying this increased incidence, taking into account psychosocial factors such as social isolation and trauma.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Has Suicide Really Increased After the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Authors: Wasserman D.
Published: September 2022

Despite being preventable, approximately 800,000 people die by suicide each year worldwide. Evidence suggests that suicide rates decrease during crises, but once the immediate threat passes, suicide rates are expected to increase. The COVID-19 pandemic likely affects risk and protective factors for suicide. Studies show mixed results regarding whether suicide behaviours have increased among adults during the pandemic. The results are however different for young people. An increase in suicidal behaviours has been identified in some countries among young people after lockdown period and when returning to schools. Data also suggests that there may have been a rise in deaths by suicide among those younger than 18 years in China, and during the first phase of lockdown in the United Kingdom. Studies have found significant decreases in hospital admissions for suicidal behaviours and visits to emergency departments both for adults and adolescents. Suicide can be prevented if evidence-based methods that exist are implemented in a systematic way. Wasserman, D., Iosue, M., Wuestefeld, A., & Carli, V. (2020). Adaptation of evidence-based suicide prevention strategies during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. World psychiatry: official journal of the World Psychiatric Association (WPA), 19(3), 294–306.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Anhedonia. Depressive versus negative symptom
Authors: Reynolds De Sousa T. , Ribeiro M. , Lourenço A. , Novais F.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Anhedonia is a symptom usually, and probably simplistically, defined as the inability to experience pleasure. It is considered one of the core symptoms of depression and a negative symptom of schizophrenia.

Objectives

We intend to explore whether previous studies found common or dissimilar experiences of anhedonia in depression and schizophrenia.

Methods

We performed a review of the published literature on the subject using PubMed. We conducted a search using ‘anhedonia’, ‘schizophrenia’, and ‘depression’ as keywords.

Results

There is different and diverging evidence on the matter. Historical reports associated schizophrenia with trait anhedonia, and depression with state anhedonia. More recently, some authors correlated appetitive anhedonia (lack of interest/desire) with schizophrenia, and consummatory anhedonia (lack of pleasure/enjoyment) with depression, but this was not corroborated by other studies. However, in line with it, there are findings of a normal physiological response to pleasurable stimuli among schizophrenics. Some authors propose that, in schizophrenia, this symptom might not represent an inability to feel pleasure but rather a deficient expression of its experience, as a part of blunted affect. Reward models highlight a deficit in reward learning in depression, but disorganization of reward processing and a focus on irrelevant clues in schizophrenia, which prevent patients from pursuing a pleasurable experience.

Conclusions

There are still limited studies comparing the experience of anhedonia in depression and schizophrenia. There seem to be significant differences between the two, but further studies are needed. In particular, this could be important in screening schizophrenic patients for depression.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Increase in the Use of Alcohol and Other Substances in Adolescents During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dom G.
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated restriction measures have a great impact on patterns of substance use throughout the general population. Interestingly, in contrast to initial expectations on an overall negative impact, data of large surveys show a differentiated picture of impact. A recent systematic review (Roberts et al., 221) showed mixed tendencies towards increased alcohol consumption, contrasting with a clear trend towards the use of other psychoactive (illicit drugs and prescription drugs) substances. patterns of use before COVID-19 (e.g. habit of drinking at home) and availability (illicit drug traffic changes) are among the significant factors. In addition, mental health factors (depression, anxiety) and social isolation are common correlates with substance use. These factors may be of specific importance impacting substance use in adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Exemplary is an increase in the use of sleeping medication among Belgian adolescents and young adults. In the current presentation data of national (Belgium) surveys on substance use in adolescents will be presented and discussed within the context of findings in international surveys.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Personality tests across settings, considering language proficiency and literacy
Authors: Steyn R. , Ndofirepi T.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Generic psychometric instruments are frequently used in psychiatric practice. When a respondent provides an affirmative reply to two contrasting items in such a questionnaire (e.g. “I am reserved” and “I am outgoing”), serious questions need to be asked about the respondent, the instrument, and the interaction between the two.

Objectives

The research aims to identify reasons which could explain the contradictory answers provided by respondents to a well-established, and seemingly psychometrically sound instrument.

Methods

World Values Survey data, collected in South Africa (N = 3 531), were analysed, focusing on the personality survey, where contrasting response to matching items were identified. Exploratory factor analyses were used to inspect the factorial structure of the instrument across groups, after which measurement invariance tests were done.

Results

The theorised factorial structure of the personality survey did not mirror the structure in the South African sample. This was demonstrated in the inspection-report, as well as in the tests of measurement invariance. However, in some groups, specifically those who were well-versed in English and possessed higher levels of education, the structures were replaceable.

Conclusions

The assumption that well-established instruments are valid in settings different to the one where they were initially developed, should be questioned, and such instruments should not be used unless thoroughly tested. This presentation exposes the extent of measurement non-invariance when using an instrument in a foreign setting and shows how this can be detected and addressed. Those working with foreign individuals or conducting cross-cultural research should be particularly aware of these threats to validity.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
A Human Rights-Based Approach To Acute Mental Health Crisis Care
Authors: Mahler L.
Published: September 2022

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as well as the new guidance on community mental health services recently published by the World Health Organization formulate clear goals for the future of psychiatry and psychosocial support. Innovative concepts of psychiatric care that focus on full participation, recovery-orientation and the prevention of coercion play an important role in achieving these goals. Implementing and scientifically evaluating the effects of such models in mental health services needs to be prioritized in national mental health planning and budgeting decisions. In this lecture, Dr. Lieselotte Mahler will address the requirements of psychiatric concepts, specifically on acute psychiatric wards, to enable participation and prevent coercion. Using practical examples and evaluated models (e.g. Weddinger Modell, standardized post-coercion review sessions), she will make suggestions on how a psychiatry oriented towards human rights can also be implemented within existing clinical structures. Dr. Lieselotte Mahler will discuss, based on the current state of research as well as practical experience, which challenges exist with regard to patient autonomy and prevention of coercion in clinical practice and how these can be addressed from a human rights perspective.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
“I heard the heartbeat”- Psychophysiological and Sociocultural Determinants in Pseudocyesis and Delusion of Pregnancy
Authors: Akira A. , Deka A. , Banayan D.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Pseudocyesis and Delusion of Pregnancy are often conflated. Both presentations are associated with false beliefs of pregnancy in patients who are not pregnant. Pseudocyesis is associated with physiological changes of pregnancy such as amenorrhea, galactorrhea, abdominal distention, and hyperprolactinemia. Delusion of Pregnancy is not associated with physiological signs/changes. We describe a case to demonstrate the phenomenological and physiological differences between these entities and how these influence treatment considerations.

Objectives

1.Phenomenology of Pseudocyesis vs Delusion of Pregnancy 2.Elucidate the physiological underpinnings of both 3.Treatment considerations

Methods

Comprehensive literature review following a 29-year-old-female with no known psychiatric history presenting to the emergency department with mixed complaints of twin-pregnancy, menorrhagia, and concern for threatened abortion. Psychiatry was consulted for decisional capacity to leave against-medical-advice due to concerns for ectopic pregnancy. Patient reported a recent ultrasound with fetal heartbeat and sensation of fetal “kicks”. She was concerned the menorrhagia was threatening her pregnancy. The patient appeared irritable, paranoid, endorsed ideas of reference and a fixed false belief that she was pregnant with twins, despite quantitative HCG, abdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds being negative. On examination, while there was vaginal bleeding, there were no stigmata of pregnancy.

Results

Diagnosis- Delusion of Pregnancy.

Conclusions

Delusion of Pregnancy have been associated with polythematic content. Pseudocyesis may be confounded by conditions such as abdominal neoplasms, leiomyoma, and endocrinologic changes (eg- hyperprolactinemia). Potent D2R antagonists carry increased risk of hyperprolactinemia and subsequent galactorrhea which may paradoxically exacerbate misattributions of pregnancy. Careful consideration of psychotropic choice is therefore needed in the management of these conditions.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Chaos Unleashed: The impact of recreational drugs and COVID on young adults
Authors: Makela A. , Howard M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

This case series reveals a number of young adults, whom after chronic use of recreational drugs, suffer the life-long consequence of severe chronic mental illness.

Objectives

• Review the illicit drugs that are commonly associated with psychotic symptoms. • Highlight exposures theorized to impact genetics associated with DSM 5 diseases. • Compare trends in illicit drug use during the worldwide COVID pandemic.

Methods

A literature review is used to examine the impact of COVID pandemic on illicit drug use in metropolitan cities in European countries and compare the trends with what is seen by the consult liaison psychiatry service at a metropolitan community hospital in the USA.

Results

In European Countries with data available, there were measurable differences in which illicit drugs were used most during the COVID 19 pandemic. In the US this data is not readily available at the time of submission for proper comparisson.

Conclusions

Although definitive comparrison is pending, the results of extensive illicit drug use demostrate a high comorbidity with psychotic spectrum disorders in the DSM 5.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychological Impacts on Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder: a Study in Southern Taiwan with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) in 2020
Authors: Chu C.Y. , Wang S.-C. , Lee C.-H. , Cheng C.-M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Alcohol consumption is a risk factor for various comorbidities, such as cirrhosis, chronic sclerosing stomatitis, and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Objectives

Our study examined the associations between psychological factors and alcohol addiction of the individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in Southern Taiwan.

Methods

Demographic information as well as suicidal history and sources of stress were collected from 177 participants. The extent of alcoholism was assessed by AUDIT questionnaire. Demographic and linear regression analyses were performed with the Statistical Software Stata version 12.0 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA).

Results

Demographic data, suicidal history and the causes of stress of patients divided by AUDIT scores are shown in
Table 1. Among 177 participants, 17 (9.6%) had suicidal thoughts, 4 (2.3%) had suicide plan, 22 (12.5%) self-injured, and four-fifth of patients lived under pressure. Patients who self-harmed were with significant lower AUDIT scores of -7.24 (95% CI: -11.49 – -3.00) (Table. 2). The AUDIT scores of patients with physical stress, interpersonal difficulties and loneliness increased significantly by 6.71 (95% CI: 3.19 – 10.30), 6.14 (95% CI: 2.15 – 10.13) and 5.02 (95% CI: 0.93 – 9.11), respectively (Table. 3).

Conclusions

Our findings indicated negative correlation with alcohol use and auto-inflicted injury. However, previous study showed systematic assessment of the association between suicide and AUD, and considered alcohol an important risk factor for suicide, which is related to mental health and affected by different genders and drinking patterns. Our results may provide reference for estimation of the alcohol-related psychological effects in Taiwan.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Assessment of Self-Esteem Among Tunisian Cannabis Users
Authors: Brahim S. , Henia M. , Haj Mohamed A. , Aoun M.H. , Zarrouk L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Cannabis is among the most widely used substances in the world. it is associated with several mental health problems.

Objectives

To assess self-esteem among a group of young Tunisian users of cannabis.

Methods

The total study sample was composed of 137 participants, who took part of a transversal descriptive study during two months (January and February 2020).

Results

In our study population, the cannabis consumers were young adults aged between 18 and 35 years old, with a male predominance of 71%. Among those users, 65.9% were single and 29.7% dropped out of school or experienced academic failure. On a socio-economic level, we concluded to a rate of 5.8% (lower class), 60.9% (middle class) and 33.3% (upper class). Besides, 40.8% were employed. In total, 23.2% had a psychiatric history. Furthermore, the use of other substances was also prominent and frequent as follows: alcohol 72.5%, tobacco 74.6%, ecstasy 41.3% and 25.4% cocaine. The use of cannabis was considered as a means of indulgence and pleasure for 66.7%, as an anxiolytic for 26.8% and as a sedative for 23.9%. Self-esteem, among those cannabis users, was very low in 20% of cases, low in 38% of cases, medium in 15% of cases and high in 25% of cases.

Conclusions

These results lead us to question the relation between cannabis and self-esteem. The question that is evolved about the use of cannabis is the following: Is it used as a remedy or is it the cause of self-esteem deficiency?

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Course of the Metabolic Syndrome (Mets) in a First Episode Psychosis Sample
Authors: Garcia De Jalon E. , Aranguren L. , Fernandez Falces A. , Aquerreta Unzue A. , Pereda N.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

There is evidence that metabolic syndrome (MetS) is common in chronic psychosis but also exists in the early stages.

Objectives

To study the prevalence and course of MetS over a period of 2 year after a first episode psychosis. To determine whether there may be differences in its prevalence according to the type of antipsychotic used over two years.

Methods

A sample of 300 patients participate in the PEPsNa Early Intervention Programme. SMet was determined at baseline and at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. The type of antipsychotic used at each assessment moment is collected (none, aripiprazole, paliperidone, others). Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria were used to define MetS.

Results

The prevalence of MetS at baseline is 4.44% and increases to 7.96% at 6 months, 10.1% at 12 months, 8.62% at 18 months and 9.01% at 24 months. The prevalence of MetS increases at 6 (p<0.021) and 12 months (p<0.003) compared to baseline and then remains stable. Only at 6 months assessment there are significant differences (F-Ficher p<0.022) in the presence of MetS (15.8%) in the paliperidone group treatment (oral or LAI).

Conclusions

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) exists from the early stages of psychosis and increases in the first 6-12 months and remains stable thereafter. The type of antipsychotic treatment only seems to have an influence at 6 months, with no differences at other follow-up times.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Bariatric surgery as a treatment for refractory obesity in patients with schizophrenia. Weight-loss outcomes and safety in 36 months follow-up
Authors: Lorencetti P. , Chaim E. , Cazzo E. , Junior A. , Dalgalarrondo P.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Obesity has increased worldwide and concerns comorbidity in patients with schizophrenia, and is linked to a high mortality rate in this group. Although bariatric surgery is the gold standard treatment for refractory obesity, it rarely is indicated for subjects with schizophrenia due to psychotic symptoms recurrence.

Objectives

Report weight-loss outcome and psychopathology changes over 36 months follow-up of 5 patients with schizophrenia submitted to bariatric surgery.

Methods

Patients have been followed for 36 months. Clinical and anthropometric assessments such as percentage of excess weight loss (EWL) and body mass index (BMI) have been performed at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months follow-up. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess psychopathology status. Wilcoxon test was used to assess statistical differences.

Results

The sample included four female and one male subject, with BMI at baseline 42,81± 5,66. The results of BMI and EWL over time are described in Table 1. A significant statistical difference was found between BMI at baseline and at T6, T12, T24, and T36 (p<0,05). EWL was higher at T12 ( compared with T6), but not different from other measurements. PANSS scores at the baseline were 7,7 ± 1,6 for a positive domain, 8,7 ± 2,3 for a negative domain, and 19,2 ± 6 for general psychopathology, with no statistically significant differences during the follow-up.

Conclusions

Despite the small sample, bariatric surgery has been shown a safe and efficient refractory obesity treatment in patients with schizophrenia.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychosocial risks among the healthcare workforce working in COVID services: findings from a cross-sectional study on psychosocial risks
Authors: Gouveia P.A. , Lopes D. , Henriques A.R. , Moura P. , Pires A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Poor management in healthcare can have significant consequences in the workers’ health, performance, and quality of care. Several risks worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, namely among the workforce caring for patients with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 infection.

Objectives

We aimed to assess psychosocial risks among a sample of 235 healthcare workers deployed in COVID-19-related services in Portugal’s Lower Alentejo.

Methods

Participants filled out with ten sociodemographic questions and the Euro-Portuguese medium version of the COPSOQ II questionnaire. Data collection occurred February 2021. Tertiles were used to render a traffic light risk categorization. Results were processed with qualitative and quantitative descriptive statistical analysis. To compare groups relative to each outcome, t-tests were used for variables with two categories. Whenever data was not normally distributed, Mann-Whitney tests were used. For variables with more than two groups non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis was applied. Bonferroni correction was also applied, testing each individual hypothesis at the level of significance of αi=0.05/29. A statistically significant difference between two groups did not necessarily yield a different risk colour.

Results

Overall, cognitive demands, emotional demands and influence at work showed the highest risk, while 19 domains showed intermediate risk. The burnout domain showed to be highest among nurses and operational assistants working in the Intensive Care Unit. Several associations between COPSOQ domains and sociodemographic variables are also discussed.

Conclusions

Assessment of psychosocial stressors in healthcare units is needed to promote risk reduction policies and workplace reforms. Accessible occupational services, therapeutic and rehabilitative strategies should play a role in improving health hazards in unhealthy workplaces.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The relationship between anxiety and dysfunctional breathing among the Russian population during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Koniukhovskaia J. , Pervichko E. , Mitina O. , Stepanova O. , Petrenko V. , Shishkova I. , Dorokhov E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Dysfunctional breathing is a pattern of respiratory movements that do not correspond to the physiological needs of the body and can lead to a series of respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, sensory and neurological symptoms ( Vidotto et al., 2019). The causes of dysfunctional breathing are a combination of biological, psychological and social factors.

Objectives

To examine the relationship between anxiety and occurrence of dysfunctional breathing in the Russian population under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We used a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Naimigen questionnaire (Van Dixhorn, Duivenvoordent, 1985), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger et al., 1983). The study was conducted online from April 27 to December 28, 2020. It was attended by 1,362 people from all regions of Russia, including 1,153 women and 209 men aged 15 to 88 years (38.3 ±11.4)

Results

It was revealed that with a low level of state anxiety (< 35 points), dysfunctional breathing was detected in 4.8% of respondents; while with a borderline level of anxiety (> 60 points) there were at 55.9%. A similar dependence was found for personal anxiety: at a low level (< 35 points), dysfunctional breathing was detected in only 4% of respondents;while at a borderline level of anxiety (> 60 points) at 62.8%.

Conclusions

Dysfunctional breathing can occur among people with high and borderline levels of situational and personal anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results allows us to conclude that dysfunctional breathing and anxiety are not equivalent concepts, although they have a common phenomenological field. The study was supported of the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 21-18-00624.

Disclosure

The study was supported of the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 21-18-00624.