bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing policies and predictive stochastic models to restrict borderline personality disorder’s access to restricted medications: comorbidity with factitious disorder, functional neurological disorder and medically unexplained symptoms
Authors: Lazzari C. G.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

We are facing increased access to hospital beds and increased use of restricted medications by people with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Our former research shows BPD comorbidity with factitious conditions, functional neurological disorder and medically unexplained symptoms. We also registered that persons with BPD might craft or exaggerate symptoms to access restricted medications. In the worst cases, they might share these medications (benzodiazepines, hypnotics, and anxiolytics) with street values for profit or other recreational purposes.

Objectives

To generate forecasting models and preventive policies to deal with BPD factitious disorders and improve the effectiveness of the UK National Healthcare Service (NHS) in reducing unnecessary admissions to general and psychiatric hospitals. More selective policies will capture and discourage BPD’s feigning and exaggerating symptoms for accessing restricted medications.

Methods

The underlying analysis framework is stochastic forecasting. We used current knowledge and data to complete systematic future predictions extracted from recent trends. A logical-mathematical model generated the required expressions. We identify four major model components to be introduced in the model: BPD (A), factious disorders (B), prescribing restricted medications (C), antisocial behaviours (D), and access to hospital beds (E).

Results

The Boolean expression becomes [A then B then C then D then E], or [A ⇒ (B ⇒ (C ⇒ (D ⇒ E))] with a truth density of 96.875% (Figure 1).

Conclusions

BPD should alert healthcare of the risks of symptom exaggeration and factitious mental diseases. These conditions are used to access often restricted medications, such as benzodiazepines, sleep tablets, and anxiolytics, for personal and communal use. Street sharing of these last increases local criminality. In worst cases, a hospital bed is granted without preventive triage. The risk is the indoor access to these medications. We advocate policies for the discontinuation of community prescription of these drugs.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Anxiety in patients with ankylosing spondylitis in southern-Tunisia: Level and associated factors
Authors: Feki A. , Sellami I. , Ketata N. , Baklouti M. , Gassara Z. , Ben Djemaa S. , Ben Djemaa S. , Ezzeddine M. , Kallel M. H. , Fourati H. , Akrout R. , Mejdoub Y. , Baklouti S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is the second most common rheumatic disease after rheumatoid arthritis. The significant functional impact of this chronic disease can affect patients’ mental health.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of anxiety in subjects with AS in Southern-Tunisia and to identify its associated factors.

Methods

It was a retrospective study conducted in 2021 over a period of 5 years on patients with AS consulting the rheumatology department at the Hedi Chaker University Hospital in SFAX, Southern-Tunisia. The “Anxiety and Depression scale” was used to screen for anxiety. A score ≥11 defined confirmed anxiety symptoms.

Results

Of the 62 patients, 35 were male (56.5%), giving a male to female ratio of 1.3. Twenty-seven patients (43.5%) were aged between 35 and 50 years. The level of education was primary in 19 cases (30.6%) and university in 15 cases (24.2%). A family history of chronic disease was present in 32 cases (51.6%). Severe fatigue was noted among 27 patients (43.5%). Quality of life was poor in 39 patients (62.9%). The mean anxiety score was 11.35±4.6. Thirty-four subjects (54.8%) had confirmed anxiety symptoms and 19 (30.5%) had borderline symptoms. Confirmed anxiety was significantly associated with the educational level (p=0.03) (illiterate: 87.5%, primary: 68.4%, secondary: 35% and university: 46.7%). Similarly, having a family history of chronic disease (OR=3.3; p=0.02), suffering from severe fatigue (OR=36, p<0.01), having associated depression (HAD score≥11) (OR=19.5; p<0.001) and having poor quality of life [Ankylosing spondylitis quality of life questionnaire (Asqol) Score ≥13] (OR=15.8; p<0.001) were statistically associated with higher prevalence of confirmed anxiety symptoms.

Conclusions

It was found that patients treated for AS frequently suffer from psychological co-morbidities, particularly anxiety, which can lead to a further deterioration in their quality of life and even their withdrawal from active life. Thus, anxiety should not be ignored when treating these patients.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Post-Ictal Mania: A Case Report with Literature Revue
Authors: Haouari W. , Omri S. , Labyadh A. , Feki R. , Gassara I. , Smaoui N. , Ben Thabet J. , Maalej M. B. , Maalej M. , Charfi N. , Zouari L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

While postictal mania is a well-recognized clinical condition, it has received less research attention compared to other postictal manifestations.

Objectives

Drawing upon an analysis of a case report that underscores the clinical and therapeutic challenges associated with comorbid epilepsy and mania, a literature review was carried out to investigate the connection between these two disorders.

Methods

We illustrate a case of comorbidity between mania and epilepsy and provide a concise review of the literature summarizing the key characteristics of this association.

Results

This case pertains to Mr. M, a 44-year-old male with a history of frontal epilepsy characterized by secondary partial generalization, which was partially controlled with sodium valproate. He was admitted to our service due to acute agitation following a loss of consciousness lasting a few minutes.

Upon admission, the patient exhibited symptoms of mental confusion. A neurological examination did not uncover any abnormalities. Brain computed tomography revealed mild frontal atrophy. Video electroencephalography conducted during the interictal period and outside the episodes of confusion did not reveal any abnormalities. The patient was restarted on sodium valproate (20 mg/kg/day) and clonazepam (2 mg/day). Following a lucid interval of ten days, the patient started to manifest psychiatric symptoms, which included irritability, hostility towards his spouse, increased talkativeness, thought pressure, and an unusual sense of familiarity, raising suspicion of post-ictal mania.

Conclusions

Based on this clinical case and the existing scientific literature, post-ictal mania occupies a distinct position among the mental disorders observed in the post-ictal period. Therefore, clinicians must be aware of these conditions to facilitate accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Development and Validation of the Isotretinoin Hesitancy Scale
Authors: Agaoglu E. , Yilmaz-Karaman I. G. , Yastibas-Kacar C. , Kaya-Erdogan H. , Mutlu T. , Acer E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Isotretinoin is an effective treatment for acne vulgaris; however, many patients experience anxiety while deciding to get it. Isotretinoin, indeed, has significant adverse effects. On the other hand, effective treatment of acne vulgaris may reduce dermatological and psychiatric complications.

Objectives

The present study aims to develop and validate the Isotretionin Hesitancy Scale to measure the patients’ drawbacks to the treatment.

Methods

The specialists, including dermatologists and mental health professionals, determined an item pool of 30 items. Before the data collection, all items were checked by the researchers in terms of clarity and acceptability. Thus, the eight items were removed from the questionnaire due to having similar meanings, measuring the facts about treatments that are not the study’s objective, and containing unclear statements. The final version of the questionnaire, which consists of 22 items, was applied to the participants.

Results

One hundred patients with acne vulgaris were recruited. Among the participants, 72% were women, and the mean age was 22.72. Most patients’ acne severity was group 2 (40%) and group 3 (36%). Three items were removed because of having low item-total score correlations. Five items were removed in factor analysis because of low factor loading or cross-loading. Exploratory factor analysis results of the scale are presented in Table 1.
Table 1.

Exploratory Factor Analysis Results of the Scale

Factor 1
(min-max)
Factor 2
(min-max)
Factor 3
(min-max)Isotretinoin treatment can lead to dryness of lips, nose, and eyes.
Isotretinoin treatment may have many side effects.
Isotretinoin treatment may cause damage to the liver.
Side effects of isotretinoin treatment may affect my daily life.
Isotretinoin treatment may cause depression.
Isotretinoin treatment may cause elevation of cholesterol level.0.516-0.842Isotretinoin treatment may cause infertility in men.
Isotretinoin treatment may cause infertility in women.
Isotretinoin treatment may prevent height gain.
In case of pregnancy, isotretinoin treatment may cause congenital defects in the baby.0.425-0.945I’m afraid of using isotretinoin for a long period.
I stop the isotretinoin treatment as soon as possible.
I will wait as long as I can before using isotretinoin treatment.
I need more reassurance about isotretinoin treatment.0.569-0.890

The Cronbach alpha score of the final form of the scale was found to be .81, the internal consistency of the first factor (hesitancy related to reversible adverse effects) was calculated as .79, the second factor (hesitancy related to irreversible adverse effects) was calculated as .78, and the final factor (isotretinoin-related anxiety) was found to be .72.

Conclusions

The Isotretionin Hesitancy Scale is valid and reliable among patients with acne vulgaris.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Case-based Workshop: Presentation of offenders with intellectual disabilities: towards an open and inclusive treatment
Authors: Saeedzadeh Sardahaee F.
Published: August 2024

Legal frameworks and the challenges for treatment and rehabilitation of offenders with intellectual disabilities Speaker: Farzaneh Saeedzadeh Sardahaee, MD, PhD, Consultant psychiatrist St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway

Lack of timely diagnostic and treatment for mild intellectual disability amongst offenders presents special challenges to clinicians and prison system alike. On the one hand, appropriate treatment for their psychiatric symptoms may not be implemented as they can be mislabeled primarily as behavioral issues. Different approaches to such perceived behavioral issues within judiciary (or prison) system and health care system is a potential conflict area. On the other hand, treatment and rehabilitation of offenders with intellectual disability require both resources and expertise that may not be readily available in prison systems, pre- or past sentencing. Furthermore, the scope of such challenges varies greatly based on different legal frameworks for sentencing offenders with intellectual disability within Europe.

In the first section an overview of Norwegian legal framework for offenders with intellectual disability is briefly presented. Then using the example of a young female offender with mild intellectual disability, drug dependence and multiple psychiatric morbidities, the speaker examines complexities of dual diagnoses, inter-disciplinary and multiagency cooperation follow-up and challenges faced in the recovery process. A brief introduction to the current Norwegian follow-up system for offenders with intellectual disability is discussed before examining recent changes in legal framework for sentencing offenders with intellectual disability in Norway, and its ramifications, as well as potential benefits for treatment and future rehabilitation of offenders. Finally, the speaker reflects on points for further improvement, especially considering the multi-agency nature of treatment and rehabilitation of offenders with intellectual disability.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Impact of the Second Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Quality of Life and Emotional Well-being of Students studying humanities disciplines in Russia
Authors: Rozhdestvenskiy V. I. , Titova V. V. , Gorkovaya I. A. , Ivanov D. O. , Aleksandrovich Y. S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the quality of life and emotional well-being of the Russian population, with increased emotional disorders such as depression and anxiety. This study focuses on the specific context of Russian university students studying humanities disciplines, who had to adapt to remote learning and self-education during the pandemic.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the quality of life and measure the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among Russian humanities students. Additionally, it examined the correlations between quality of life and emotional disorders.

Methods

Data collection was conducted between January and April 2021 using a customized Google form. The study included 35 students from Russian universities. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, and levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were determined using the DASS-21 methodology, both adapted for use in Russia.

Results

The mean values for the quality of life domains were as follows: “physical and psychological well-being” (M = 20.65±3.85), “self-image” (M = 19.21±3.54), “microsocial support” (M = 10.39±2.36), and “social well-being” (M = 27.93±4.15). Notably, 54% of respondents exhibited no symptoms of depression, 66% showed no signs of anxiety, and 69% reported no stress. Correlation analysis revealed that there was no statistically significant relationship between stress and quality of life, and social well-being did not correlate with emotional disturbances.

Conclusions

During the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of Russian humanities students did not experience clinical manifestations of depression, anxiety, or stress. To improve their emotional well-being, students should prioritize their physical and psychological health, self-perception, self-esteem, and relationships with their immediate social circles, particularly their families. In this pandemic context, broader social factors such as recreational opportunities took a back seat in students’ priorities.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Fundamental beliefs, as well as levels of depression, anxiety, and stress experienced by Russian students during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rozhdestvenskiy V. I. , Titova V. V. , Gorkovaya I. A. , Ivanov D. O. , Aleksandrovich Y. S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

A pandemic caused by a novel coronavirus is an immensely traumatic event. Researches indicate that such events significantly impact various aspects of individuals, including their physical, emotional, cognitive, behavioural, and social functions, affecting different components of their personality structure. However, the experience of trauma itself is influenced by implicit internal structures known as underlying beliefs. Consequently, emotional responses to traumatic events may be interconnected with these core beliefs.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore fundamental beliefs among Russian university students and analyze their associations with emotional reactions such as depression, anxiety, and stress.

Methods

Data collection took place from January to April 2021 using a custom-designed Google form. The study involved 35 Russian university students. We employed the WAS-37 methodology to investigate fundamental beliefs and the DASS-21 methodology to assess the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Both questionnaires were adapted for use in Russia.

Results

We found that the mean values of the “Benevolence of the surrounding world” (M = 35.5±7.3) and “Luck” (M = 31.7±5.1) scales are higher than the normative mean values for the Russian population. In contrast, the mean values of the “Fairness” (M = 21.0±3.7), “Self-image” (M = 26.6±7.0) and “Beliefs about control” (M = 26.6±4.8) scales are generally not different from the normative values. Depression has negative correlations with Self-image (rs = -0.590, p < 0.01) and Beliefs about control (rs = -0.509, p < 0.01). No statistically significant correlations of anxiety and stress with baseline beliefs were obtained.

Conclusions

During the second wave of the pandemic, Russian university students tend to view the world around them as less perilous than the broader population does, and they perceive themselves as more fortunate. Depressive feelings among students are linked to their lower beliefs in the value and importance of their self, as well as their perception that the world around them is not sufficiently controllable.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Multifaceted Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown on Physical and Mental Health: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dimitriou V. , Kalogirou C. , Potamianou A. , Bakola M. , Gourzis P. , Charalampous G. , Jelastopulu E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The global COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have significantly impacted global wellbeing and highlighted the close link between mental and physical health. Social isolation and quarantine have proven to be major stressors, leading to emotional distress and unpredictable psychological consequences.

Objectives

We explored the pandemic’s impact on individuals’ physical and mental health and social relationships.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire which included among other socio-democratic questions, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, the World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF) and the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ).

Results

A total of 511 adults (55.1% males) participated in this study. Participants reported increased social media use (more than 4-5 times/week) during the lockdown, which was associated with increased fear of COVID-19 and negative effects on mental and physical health, and social relationships (p<0.01). Conversely, non-work-related outings (once a week) were associated with lower fear (p<0.01) and better well-being (p<0.05). Higher fear, particularly for loved ones, was associated with negative effects. The level of physical health was moderate to high, with varying levels of satisfaction in different areas. Empathy correlated with increased fear (p<0.01) and reduced mobility (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns significantly affected physical and mental health, highlighting the importance of tailoring interventions for vulnerable populations and promoting adaptive coping strategies in times of crisis.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Tardive Dysphoria: can antidepressants cause depression?
Authors: Desport C. P. , Martins D. O. , Freitas J. R. , Santos M. F. , de Castro L. C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

tardive dysphoria is a relatively new term used to describe the phenomenon of clinical worsening of depression after long-term antidepressant use. Most of the theories proposed to explain this talk about antidepressants tachyphylaxis that implies the loss of efficacy with its prolonged use, or even a pro-depressant effect of antidepressants when used for long periods of time.

Objectives

to explore the concept of tardive dysphoria, potential causes and clinical implications, by making a literature review on the topic. Moreover we pretend to understand the challenges in its diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

bibliographical search in PubMed database, using the key-words “long-term antidepressant”, “tardive dysphoria” and “antidepressant tachyphylaxis”, limited to works published in the last twenty years.

Results

from our search resulted 53 articles, 26 were chosen for further analysis.

Conclusions

the concept of tardive dysphoria is controversial, namely doubt persists if it constitutes a clinical entity by itself caused by long-term antidepressant use or if it simply relates to cases of treatment-resistant depression. We conclude that it is necessary further investigation in this area given the significant implications on clinical practice specifically in the psychopharmacological treatment with antidepressants, which is very common in psychiatric and general practices, with antidepressants being used to treat many mental health conditions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Unipolar and Bipolar Depressed Inpatients: correlations with Vitamin D and Cognitive Symptoms
Authors: Bonfitto I. , Moniello G. , Francavilla G. , Bellomo A. , Dimalta S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Cognitive symptoms are the main factor of discomfort in depressed patients, persisting even during clinical remission (Conradi et al. Psychol Med 2011;41:1165-74) and inevitably compromising their quality of life (Fehnel et al. CNS Spectr 2013;25:1-10). Several studies have suggested the neuroprotective role of vitamin D, both through actions on the genome and rapid non-genomic mechanisms; so, low serum vitamin D levels are related to poorer cognitive performance (Goodwill et al. JAGS 2017;2:1-8), depressive disorders (Kjærgaard et al. Psyc Res 2011;190:221-225) and suicide risk (Umhau et al. PLoS One 2013;8:e51543).

Objectives

to investigate relationships between serum vitamin D levels, depressive symptoms and cognitive performance in unipolar and bipolar depressed adults hospitalized for Major Depressive Episode (MDE).

Methods

80 patients (34 M and 46 F; average age 48,96±14,17 years; 40% with bipolar depression) were examined. Depression was investigated using Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), while cognitive functions were explored by: Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (ROCF) to assess verbal and visuospatial memory, respectively; Trail Making Test (TMT) and Stroop Color and Word Test to assess attention, spatial planning and cognitive flexibility. Venous blood sampling was used to determine serum Vitamin D levels (average level 15,67 ± 8,7 ng/ml).

Results

At first, the serum level of vitamin D was found to be inversely correlated with HAM-D scores (p=0,0079), so that lower concentrations of vitamin D is related to greater severity of depression. In addiction, there were strongly significative positive correlations between low vitamin D levels and poorer RAVLT and ROCF scores and strongly significative negative correlations between vitamin serum level and higher scores in TMT and STROOP test, so that calcidiol deficit is associated with poor cognitive performance. Similarly, patients with higher HAM-D scores were found to have a greater cognitive impairment (lower RAVLT e ROCF scores and higher TMT e STROOP scores).

Conclusions

In accordance with previous works, our study supports the close relationship between serum vitamin D levels and depressive morbidity. During MDE hypovitaminosis D is related to worse disease indices, such as severity of affective symptoms and cognitive impairment, without substantial differences between clinical manifestations of unipolar and bipolar depression, both in terms of affective and cognitive symptoms and disease severity. Considering that cognitive deficits are truly disabling because they may resist to common antidepressant treatments and, as a result, persist during stages of clinical remission, vitamin d supplementation, by minimizing cognitive dysfunction, could be a good strategy to reduce the risk of relapses and to improve patients’ functioning and quality of life.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Randomized controlled trail of work-map: telehealth metacognitive intervention for work performance enhancement of adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Grinblat N. , Rosenblum S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The literature has emphasized the importance of implementing evidence-based occupational therapy teleinterventions to enhance work participation in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an innovative metacognitive self-tailored teleintervention for adults with ADHD performance at work enhancement (Work-MAP). The outcome measures were efficacy of and satisfaction with the performance of self-selected work goals (Canadian Occupational Performance Measure), executive functions (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult), and quality of life (Adult ADHD Quality of Life Questionnaire).

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, participants were 46 adults with ADHD. Group A (n = 31) received the synchronous, hybrid-telehealth intervention in 11 weekly 1-hour individual sessions, while Group B (n = 15) completed the same intervention after a waiting phase.

Results

Following the intervention, participants demonstrated and maintained significant improvements in all outcome measures (strong-to-moderate significant effects) to the 3-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Work-MAP seems to be effective intervention for enhancing work participation (i.e., performance at work), executive functions, and quality of life of adults with ADHD. Future studies with larger samples and additional objective measures are needed to further validate these findings.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Eating disorders: the increase in requests for help and the optimization of resources
Authors: Campana M. , Colombi M. , Milanese P. , Greco A. , Mucci C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

This work aims to provide an updated overview of the eating disorders (EDs) which are a widespread pathology nowadays. Informations related to the clinical-nosographic characteristics, an in-depth analysis about systemic-relational theories and historical evolution are provided. In addition, current informations about epidemiological data, recovery, treatment related implications, new neuroscientific theories and risk factors are shown. Given the complexity of these disorders, the lack of resources and the the increasing demands for treatment, the main object is related to the construction of a questionnaire to manage the waiting lists.

Objectives

Building a waiting list management model for EDs, Study and compare advantages and disadvantages of the source allocation ethical models (utilitarianism, prioritarianism, egalitarianism), Analyze EDs leading experts (doctors, dietitians, psychologists, psychiatrists) and EDs patients positioning with respect to priority treatment factors. Promote constructive dialog between EDs experts from different backgrounds and EDs patients.

Methods

In order to know the various treatment alternatives available, the different levels and reference structures are illustrated. In addition, it is also suggested different reasoning based on the ethical models of egalitarianism, utilitarianism and prioritarianism in order to build a waiting list management model, which is the maximum goal of this work. This model needs to be supported by a series of validated tools such as the clinical interview and self-administered questionnaires to investigate psychopathological aspects and psychiatric symptoms. Going into more details, a questionnaire is proposed to the EDs leading experts, so that they can provide their own priority factors list and related thoughts in order to build “the most ethical” waiting list.

Results

It is expected that both patients and clinicians tend to give priority to patients with greater psychophysical severity, not exclusively on the basis of physical parameters. Further hypothesis related to clinicians lead us believe that they tend to use utilitarian logics, in compliance with the demonstrated efficacy of early intervention. An evaluation that could lead to a disagreement between experts and patients is related to prioritize patients in the initial phase of the disease, which could be supported by clinicians, but not by patients, probably in connection with their personal experiences. In fact, this favoritism could have a negative impact on the care of the most serious cases who risk to be left to themselves.

Conclusions

This work aims to encourage a constructive dialogue between experts and patients with EDs in order to build a functional intervention model which should be “the most ethical as possible” in order to save the greatest number of lives in respect of mental suffering.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Cases presentation and relapse rates associated with specific risk factors
Authors: Mena Garcia J. I. ,   Relapse predictors of bipolar disorder
Published: August 2024

This section will be destinated to the presentation of specific cases of patients with bipolar disorder admitted to our acute psychiatric ward. For each case, sociodemographic, clinical and environmental characteristics will be described and pharmacological treatment discussed. In addition, predictive and protective factors for mood relapses will be identified, and then, prospective information regarding their clinical prognosis will be provided in order to discuss with the attendees the impact of the mentioned factors on clinical outcomes.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The role of gender in the prevalence of eating disorders
Authors: Strada Herrera G. , López Claramunt I. , Serván Rendón-Luna B. , Sanz Martín L. M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Eating disorders have a key paper at the ongoing society. A key symptom of the Anorexia Nervosa and the Bulimia Nervosa is the alteration of the corporal image which observes that it continues being present after remitting the most flowery symptomatology. In terms of gender, we can observe that the esting disorders have a higher incidence in the feminine gender.

Objectives

Research how body image affects eating disorders and how the role of gender is a risk factor for developing Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using PubMed. Twelve studies were identified in order to do this review.

Results

At the twelve surveys included at the review we can observe that the incidence of Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa is higher in women than men. There are many facts that take part on the development of eating disorders, but there is consensus to understand them with a biopsicosocial point of view (interaction between the environment and biological facts). Body image disturbance takes part in both men and women, but it affects them in different ways.

Conclusions

Body image disturbances are a crucial factor when considering eating disorders’ symptomatology. One of the main components that affects its alteration is the internalization of standards of beauty. Women tend to focus on thin body types, meanwhile men’s attention tends to point to muscular and defined body types. Nevertheless, it must be taken into account that today’s gender conception may appear as one of the most important roles to understand Anorexia and Bulimia aetiology. Regarding gender, in nowadays society exists a dichotomy where masculinity and femininity lie in total opposites poles; but if the gender approach socially changed, Anorexia and Bulimia might take a different portrayal.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Problem focused coping strategies and high self-compassion can be seen as protective factors to lower stress, negative emotional reactions to job and anxiety
Authors: Gruber E. N. , Martic Biocina S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Previous research has shown that:

-

problem focused coping strategies aim to change the reaction to the stressful situations

-

self-compassion may reduce anxiety and depression. It is associated with happiness, it increases with age, it is negatively correlated with perceived stress and in older adults seems to be associated with higher levels of wisdom, integration, acceptance of one’s past life experiences and higher levels of meaning in life.

-

job related low LPLA (Low pleasurable Low arousal emotions) and high LPHA (Low pleasurable High arousal emotions) levels corelate to depression, anxiety, and stress.

Objectives

Case report of 60 years old computer scientist

Methods

Psychiatric interview and scales:

Self-reported questionnaires: The Brief-COPE, The Self-Compassion Scale (SCS-SF), The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS 10), The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-10), The Job-related Affective Well-being Scale (JAWS), The Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), The Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ)

Results

60 years old male computer scientist, single, without children, multiple times a week in recreative activities and physical activities. He is not satisfied with close friendships, he sleeps 6 hours in day, he didn’t have traumatic experiences in life. He is not religious. He works 45 hours per week, from that 5-10 hours weekly works at the site of primary employment.

The Brief-COPE: High score for using problem focused coping strategies-acceptance, planning, positive reframing, and informational support. Maladaptive coping strategies used in lower grade: self-blame and self-distraction.

SCS-SF: Much higher levels of self-compassion than the norms established by previous research.

DASS-10:
low.

SHS: lower happiness level than the norms established by previous research.

JAWS: High negative emotional reactions to job and low level of overall job-related affective wellbeing together with lower HPHA, higher LPHA, and lower LPLA in comparison to previous research. According to previous research this person is not satisfied with his job and have a lot of negative emotions regarding his job.

PSS 10: Levels of perceived stress are lower than the norms established by previous research.

MLQ: this person scored below 24 on the scale- presence of meaning and below 24 on the scale search for meaning. According to previous research person with this score do not feel their life has a valued meaning and purpose and they do not not actively explore that meaning or seeking meaning.

Conclusions

Problem focused coping strategies and high self-compassion can be seen as protective factors to lower stress, negative emotional reactions to job and anxiety

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Autism Spectrum Disorders traits in a sample of young adults referring to a generalized mental health outpatient clinic
Authors: Nistico’ V. , Folatti I. , Santangelo G. , Sanguineti C. , Inci S. , Faggioli R. , Bertani A. , Gambini O. , Demartini B.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders is currently witnessing several changes, with direct consequences on the prevalence rates in the general population. However, little is known about ASD traits prevalence in clinical samples, and how much these traits interact with other mental health conditions, especially in young adults, a critical age for the outbreak of many psychiatric diseases.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of ASD traits in a sample of young adults (aged between 18 and 24 years old) referring to a specialized mental health outpatient clinic.

Methods

We administered to 259 patients the Autism Quotient (AQ) and the Ritvo Autism and Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS‐R), along with a detailed sociodemographic and anamnestic interview.

Results

We found that 16.2% of our sample scored above the cut-off at both scales (a percentage that went down to 13.13% when restricting the RAADS-R cut-off at >119, as suggested for clinical samples).

Conclusions

This prevalence seems considerably higher than the one reported in the general population, and not negligible. The association with sociodemographic features such as sex assigned at birth, gender identity and employment status, and the validity of the screening tools we implemented, are discussed. In conclusion, we suggest that an assessment for autistic traits should be implemented in young adults seeking help for unspecified psychiatric symptoms and psychological suffering and that, despite the not unanimous consensus over self-report screening tools, a positivity to both the AQ and the RAADS-R should lead the clinician to conduct a full diagnostic evaluation with structured or semi-structured interviews.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Non-compliance as ethical dilemma for kidney transplantation
Authors: Rossini Gajsak L. , Zibar L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Allocating a kidney transplant to a non-compliant recipient could present a triple damage: to the donor (and family of a deceased donor), for the recipient (who will experience rejection) and for another potential recipient on the waiting list (who missed the chance for the transplant). Having in mind that kidney transplantation (TX) is the best choice of renal replacement therapy, a thorough individual endeavor to predict the outcome of a TX in a non-compliant candidate is necessary to avoid a worse option. Non-compliance could origin from maladaptation, psychological limitations or a psychiatric condition.

Objectives

Here we present a 46 years old male patient on chronic hemodialysis (HD) for 4 years due to end stage diabetic kidney disease. He is extremely non-adherent to HD related recommendations, occasionally skipping the sessions, gaining up to 10 kg weight overload between the sessions and avoided visiting psychiatrist, so far. Our objectives were to explore the presence and severity of non-compliance as ethical dilemma for kidney transplantation.

Methods

Reviewing the patient’s medical data.

Results

Unlike to non-obedience to dietary and behavioral medical advice, this patient is very much adherent to pharmacological medication. Staying on HD he is constantly on the edge of vital danger, risking pulmonary edema or hyperkalemia related cardiac events. The most important compliance in a kidney transplant patient is adherence to immunosuppressive therapy. In this particular patient we could predict adherence to immunosuppressive medication after a TX and getting rid of volume overload and hyperkalemia once restoring kidney transplant function.

Conclusions

Pretransplant non-compliance in kidney transplant candidate is not always an obstacle for kidney TX. In some cases, as in the one here described, a TX is better option than staying on HD, avoiding the previously described triple ethical damage - to the donor, the recipient and patients waiting on list, while we could predict a good outcome of the TX. Including psychiatrist into the work up and management should not be skipped.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Utility of risky cannabis use concept and the role of standard units for achieving an operational definition
Authors: Lopez-Pelayo H. , Oliveras C.
Published: August 2024

Over the past decade (2010-2019), the number of people admitting to using cannabis in the European Union (including the United Kingdom, Norway, and Turkey) increased by 27%, from 3.1% to 3.9%. Notably, Portugal, Spain, and Luxembourg topped the list with the highest percentages of daily cannabis users among those who had consumed the substance in the last month.

With the relaxation of recreational cannabis laws in various European countries, such as Germany, Malta, and Luxembourg, there is a growing need for a public health-oriented and preventative approach. Drawing parallels with alcohol-related strategies, this session aims to explore this evolving landscape from a clinical perspective.

The focus will be on the World Health Organization’s definition of risky substance use, aiming to make it practical and applicable. Two existing proposals from Canada and Spain will be reviewed, with an emphasis on the role of standardized cannabis units in defining risk and the quest for consensus in this regard.

Additionally, the session will examine the similarities between alcohol and cannabis consumption, looking at the effectiveness of the Standard Drink Unit in early intervention and prevention of alcohol-related problems. Insights from the alcohol domain will be discussed, offering valuable lessons for preventing cannabis-related
harm.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing clinical trials for neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Abdelmoula B. , Bouayed Abdelmoula N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Recently, the new therapeutic approach based on genome editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system has been applied to treat cancer and other monogenetic disorders. CRISPR/Cas9 allows specific correction of the altered gene without affecting the rest of the genome.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to report the current CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing clinical trials in neurodevelopmental and mental disorders.

Methods

We conducted a search via the ClinicalTrials platform to describe clinical trials that have been conducted using the CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing tool in neurodevelopmental disorders.

Results

Our research revealed three clinical trials that used the CRISPR/Cas9 tool for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The first study aimed to investigate the pathological role of KMT2D mutations in 40 Kabuki syndrome patients in order to facilitate the identification and characterization of therapeutic strategies to improve symptoms, to identify the consequences of KMT2D mutations on epigenetic marker changes and cellular structural changes and to finally attempt gene correction by CRISPR/Cas9. The therapeutic approach was an epigenome editing approach aimed at increasing the expression of the wild-type KMT2D allele to restore the functional activity of a histone H3-lysine 4 (H3K4)-methyltransferase (MLL4) in treated mesenchymal stem cells. The second clinical trial aimed to validate gene editing based on CRISPR/Cas9 technology combined with AAV delivery for the correction of the most common MECP2 mutations in Rett syndrome both in vitro and in vivo. The third GENEPI clinical trial aimed to identify acetylation profiles as epigenetic markers to assess the causality of CREBBP and EP300 variants in Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, which is considered as a genetic model of neurodevelopmental abnormality with an epigenetic component.

Conclusions

CRISPR/Cas9 clinical trials in polygenic conditions, such as psychiatric disorders, could be envisaged at the level of the epigenetic component of these pathologies. This therapy could be applied ex vivo to perform tissue-specific gene editing.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Implementation in the Motek Caren system with virtual reality of an existing motor rehabilitation programme for people with Down’s syndrome in order to increase its effectiveness
Authors: Ciołek M. A. , Kamińska K. , Szczegielniak A. , Krysta K. , Krzystanek M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Down’s syndrome often requires specialized rehabilitation methods in order to effectively improve cognitive and motor functioning. The growing interest in technologies to support rehabilitation is opening up new and promising perspectives for improving the quality of life of people diagnosed with this syndrome. One of these technologies is the Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (CAREN) system from Motek.

Objectives

The aim of the planned research project is to explore the potential of using the CAREN system in the rehabilitation of people with Down’s syndrome.

Methods

The study included 10 participants with Down’s syndrome (men and women aged 18 to 50 years) without the presence of organic musculoskeletal disease or other somatic causes impairing motor performance. Before the training test, the participants were assessed by two psychological tests: 1) ACE III - Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination III Scale (ACE-III), which assesses attention and orientation, memory, verbal fluency, language and visuospatial functions and 2) the TONI 4 Non-Verbal Intelligence Test, which is a test used to measure general intelligence. The tests were carried out using the MOTEK CAREN device, which consists of a treadmill for motor training and a virtual reality screen on which different scenes are displayed for the participant to see during the test. Integrated motion capture technology was used to assess movement capabilities of the patients.. The screen displayed different types of applications in the form of virtual reality, in which the participant had to cope with various tasks accommodating different psychomotor skills, for example:crossing a virtual bridge, walking through a forest. The test took about 45 minutes per person. Two training sessions were conducted for each of the 10 patients with a one-month interval between them.

Results

The Motek Caren System has proven to be a promising rehabilitation method for people with Down’s syndrome, compared to previous experience with different rehabilitation methods and existing research in the field.

Conclusions

Results emphasize the necessity for further investigations and future research should involve more participants. The project has the potential to integrate modern technology with traditional forms of therapy to improve the quality of life and functioning of people affected by this syndrome.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Improving Access to Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy: Barriers, Challenges, and Recommendations
Authors: Tsang V. , Roney C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) has demonstrated significant potential in alleviating anxiety, depression, and psychological distress among individuals with terminal illnesses. However, numerous barriers prevent equitable access to this transformative treatment.

Objectives

This study seeks to gather the perspectives of patients on the waitlist of PAT.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews highlight the challenges faced by patients seeking PAT and their care providers and propose recommendations to enhance accessibility.

Results

Through a case study of Roots to Thrive, a non-profit healthcare practice offering group-based PAT, obstacles such as complex application processes, fear of judgement, logistical and financial constraints, and systemic inequities are revealed. Moreover, Health Canada’s stringent control of PAT access via clinical trials and the Special Access Program (SAP) presents challenges for primary care providers and hinders the involvement of trained practitioners. The moral distress experienced by patients and providers due to delayed or denied access further emphasizes the urgency of addressing these barriers.

Conclusions

Advocates are calling for streamlined referral systems, expedited services for end-of-life patients, formal billing infrastructure, practitioner education, expanded coverage, legislative adjustments, post-therapy support, and collaboration with non-profit organizations and Indigenous Healers to promote equitable and effective PAT. By implementing these recommendations, barriers to PAT can be overcome, allowing more individuals to benefit from this therapy and find relief from the psychological distress associated with their conditions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared