bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latent by-product of substance use: Burden of care
Authors: Channa A. , Mohsin H.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Substance use affects it’s user and also risks the health of the caregivers.

Objectives

Identify persons at risk of developing substance use disorder, assess the burden borne by the caregivers and development of psychiatric illness.

Methods

Clinical assessment based on DSM-V criteria was performed for SUD diagnosis. Data was recorded using Substance use risk profile scale (SURPs) on the patient and the caregivers were evaluated using M.I.N.I. International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I) and caregiver’s strain index (CSI).

Results

81 participants-96% were male, mean age 32.4 years, 53.1% married, 72.8% employed and 52% lived in joint family system). The substance use ascertained were alcohol 24.7%, benzodiazepines 21%, cannabis 34.6%, opioid 30.9% and others 4.8%. 50% had substance use lasting 2-9 years. 50.6% reported starting as a recreation and the perpetuating factor for 49.4%. was emotional distress. 44% quit due to family pressure. On SURP, 85.2% demonstrated anxiety sensitivity, 96.3% were hopeful, 66% sensation seeking and 77% were impulsive. Caregiver mean age was 37.8 years, with two-third being parents and spouses. The burden reported was sleep disturbance 59.3%, inconvenience (61.7%) physical strain 46.9%, confining 50.6%, family adjustment 76.5%, plan changes 65.4%, emotional adjustment 88.9%, behavioral adjustment 74.1%, financial strain 80.2%, work adjustment 46.9%, 71.6% felt overwhelmed and 67.9% were upset about the changes from former self. Major depressive disorder was identified in 51.9% of the caregivers.

Conclusions

SURP identified personality features linked with risk of developing substance use disorder. The study also provided evidence for significant burden on caregivers and an increased likelihood to develop a psychiatric disorder.
Receiver operating characteristic analysis to determine optimal cutting point of cage in predicting physical and mental comorbidities among alcohol users
Authors: Chu C.Y. , Wang S.C. , Lee C.H. , Cheng C.M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is highly related to various comorbidities, such as cancer, cognitive impairment, cirrhosis, chronic sclerosing stomatitis, stroke, and depression. The CAGE (Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener) questionnaire is a simple screening material to make a diagnosis of alcoholism.

Objectives

Our study aimed to find an optimal cut-off point of CAGE for alcohol-related comorbidities in Taiwan.

Methods

We performed demographic analysis for 280 participants with AUD and categorized them into two groups according to CAGE scores. We applied receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis to determine optimal cutting point of CAGE in predicting physical and mental problems among alcohol users. Statistical analysis was performed with the Statistical Software Stata version 12.0 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA).

Results

The mean age of participants was 45.9 ± 10.5 years, and all of them were male. Among 280 participants, 134 (47.9%) had physical diseases, including 37 (13.2%) with liver disease, 10 (3.6%) with pancreatitis, 22 (7.9%) with gout, and 5 (1.8%) with esophageal varices; while 33 (11.8%) had one or more mental illnesses. Patients with CAGE score greater than 3 were more likely to have both mental health problems and/or physical diseases, especially hepatic disease and esophageal varices.

Conclusions

This study revealed that with CAGE score greater than 3, male patients with AUD are at higher risks of both physical and mental comorbidities. Further research as well as female participants are needed to identify the associations between the severity of alcohol use disorder and related diseases for comprehensive evaluation in Taiwan.
Clinical and therapeutic aspects of the alcohol addiction phenomenon in elderly women
Authors: Sosin I. , Mysko G. , Honcharova O. , Misna O. , Minko O.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Age-related features of alcohol addiction in elderly women (AAEW) have not been studied properly. The WHO classifies 60-75 years as elderly age (‘early old age’), when morphological and physiological functions of all organs and systems fade away, causing severe post-intoxication and withdrawal disorders, giving organic tint to alcohol dependence clinical picture, and rapid onset of alcoholic mental degradation of personality.

Objectives

To study specific clinical, diagnostic and pathophysiological basis of alcohol dependence in aged women for innovative approaches to AAEW treatment.

Methods

Clinical and medical history questioning, international tests and scales to identify alcohol dependence and complications in elderly women. Follow-up monitoring of basic biochemical, clinical, laboratory and electrophysiological findings at treatment runtime.

Results

Multifactorial study and specific gender features in AAEW development allowed to identify abundant dual comorbidity, prevalence, high degree of affective disorders (depression, anxiety, dysphoria) combined with various somatic conditions and diencephalic symptoms in this alcoholic disease pattern. New treatment modality for alcohol dependence in elderly women was proposed and tested; along with classical detoxification and symptomatic therapy, the patients received anxiolytic agent (serotonin receptor stimulator) Buspirone SANDOZ, 5 mg 3 times a day, followed by individually corrected effective dose. The drug stopped anxiety, balanced the mood, causing no addiction. Buspirone was combined with bromine and sodium sulfate transcerebral electrophoresis № 5 and selective psychotherapy.

Conclusions

The proposed integrated therapy for AAEW was proven to be effective by statistical reliability and patient-specific clinical illustrations.
Mental health and human rights of women
Authors: Amering M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Mental health stigma and discrimination interact with gender inequality and the discrimination of women and girls to their mental health detriment.

Objectives

Present and discuss the challenges and opportunities of a human rights based approach to womens’ mental health.

Methods

Non-systematic review of policy and practice of human rights based interventions for womens’ mental health.

Results

Current mental health as well as gender equality legislation converge towards the realization of longstanding demands of equality for women as well as for persons with mental health problems: removal of barriers, respect and enablement of autonomy, renewed efforts toward effective inclusion in all spheres of life. Essential changes through non-discrimination laws concern key areas, including family planning, marriage and parenthood, employment, housing, education, health, standards of living and social, political and cultural participation, along with the right to be free from exploitation, violence and abuse. Because of the cumulation and the interaction of gender-based and other forms of discrimination, legislations such as the UN-Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN-CRPD) include a focus on gender-specific human rights needs of women and girls. Family advocacy in mental health is prominently supported by female activists as is the user movement.

Conclusions

The opportunities of a successful development towards non-discrimination and gender equality in mental health care are dependent on a viable understanding of these concepts within the mental health community as well as updated expertise concerning tools for implementation of support systems sensitive to the human rights needs of women and girls.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Method of relieving hypertoxic alcohol abuse states in alcohol dependence
Authors: Sosin I. , Babenko Y. , Sergienko O. , Honcharova O. , Mysko G. , Lisova I.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Currently, alcohol dependence is characterized by immediate onset of dipsomania states (code F10.26, ICD-10) interpreted in clinical addictology as reliable diagnostic signs of morbid alcohol dependence. These are classified clinically by rate, severity, therapeutically resistant post alcohol comorbidities (alcohol-induced polyneuropathy, hepatic dysfunctions, etc.), and by the presence of “lucid spaces”, when patients, depleted physically and mentally by hypertoxic alcohol abuse states, periodically (after binge drinking) intake no alcohol.

Objectives

Effectiveness improvement and reducing time of treatment for hypertoxic alcohol abuse states by reasonable pathogenetic use of highly effective drugs, wide polymodality and synergistic pharmacological range, with few side effects, potential for inclusion to the conventional standard treatment patterns according to thiamine concepts.

Methods

Valid clinical-diagnostic, laboratory, biochemical, electrophysiological, psychological (scaling, testing), statistical methods for identification of alcohol dependence complicated by hypertoxic alcohol abuse states.

Results

A new method of alleviating the hypertoxic intoxication in alcohol dependence has been developed on representative clinical material, which involves conventional pharmacological and drug-free symptomatic remedies and methods. Along with psychotherapeutic potentiation, a therapeutically targeted pharmacological complex was prescribed: intramuscular Vitaxon № 10 per course; Sibazon 0.5% solution, 2 ml intramuscular, 3-5 injections per course; oral Phenazepam, one tablet (0.001g) twice a day for 10-14 days; Cocarnit one ampoule daily intramuscular injection, for a course of 3-10 injections.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of the proposed pharmacological complex has been proven by the statistical reliability method and illustrated by clinical examples of patient-specific research.
Quality of life of alcohol dependence patients who have been having acute psychotic disorder
Authors: Kuzminov V.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Severe acute psychosis significantly alters patient’s quality of life in patients with alcohol dependence. The aim of the investigation were examination value quality of the life patients with alcohol dependence who have recently suffered of acute psychotic disorder. The factor influencing the quality of life is the psychoorganic syndrome after acute psychosis.

Objectives

120 patients with alcohol dependence who had recent history of acute psychosis were examined.

Methods

Psychopathological.

Results

The psychorganic syndromes at these patients were investigated. The Index quality of the life in these patients was assessed due to type of the psychorganic syndromes. The dynamics of the Index quality of the life at patients with psychorganic syndrome during the treatment were described. The subjective assessment of their condition in patients with hard psychorganic syndrome was dissociated from the assessment of doctors and relatives. The explaining the characteristics of the consequences of the transferred psychotic disorder to the patients turned out to be important for overcoming anosognosia. The Index quality of the life in these patients was assessed repeatedly at the same time, there was a significant decrease in the difference in the assessment of the quality of life by patients with relatives.

Conclusions

The importance of value quality of the life from the point of the patient, relatives of the patient and physician was underlined. The assesment of Index quality of the life is important important to explain the peculiarities of the postpsychotic state to the patients and their relatives in order to develop rehabilitation programs and carrying out psychotherapeutic activities.
The socio-professional impact of workaholism on engineers
Authors: Hrairi A. , Dhouib F. , Masmoudi R. , Kotti N. , Hammami K. Jmal , Masmoudi M. Larbi , Masmoudi J. , Hajjeji M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Workaholism is an “irrational commitment to excessive work” as described by Cherrington. It’s considered as an emerging phenomenon that has been the topic of much debate. Indeed, over the last four decades, many contradictions have arisen among researchers investigating its negative consequences.

Objectives

-Determine the prevalence of workaholism among a population of engineers. -Evaluate the socio-professional impact of workaholism on this population.

Methods

This study is a descriptive-cross sectional analysis conducted on active engineers for one month. Data were collected through an online questionnaire, including socio-professional data and the WART (Work Addiction Risk Test) questionnaire.

Results

Our population consisted of 75 engineers with an average age of 29± 4.6 years and sex-ratio of 1.2. Among this group, 26.7% of engineers were at risk of work addiction, while a certain addiction was noted among the third of the population. Workaholism was positively correlated with the lack of entertainment, especially sports activity (p= 0.012). Moreover, workaholic subjects were more likely to work more than 8 hours a day (p=0.004) and without a weekly break (p=0.043). Workaholism was not associated with the level of job satisfaction.

Conclusions

Workaholism is an emerging phenomenon among engineers that can lead, in some cases, to depression and burnout. Therefore, the role of the occupational physician consists in the detection of early signs of workaholism and in raising awareness of this hidden problem.

Conflict of interest

No significant relationships.
Patient’s perspective on early treatment retention in take home buprenorphine maintenance treatment- an explorative study from India
Authors: M P. , Chand P. , Murthy P.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Currently, Buprenorphine maintenance therapy (BMT) is an evidence-based treatment in retaining patients who are dependent on opioids. However, factors influencing retention are often measured objectively. Studies on patient’s perspectives on take home BMT in developing countries are limited.

Objectives

This study examines the potential factors influencing treatment compliance in the early phase of Buprenorphine maintenance treatment from the patient’s perspective

Methods

Participants (n=89) who were initiated on BMT were recruited and followed after six weeks. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 62 patients who remained in treatment and 24 patients who dropped out of the study

Results

Based on the semi qualitative analysis some of the factors which facilitated the patient’s retention in treatment were: (1) Effectiveness in blocking withdrawal symptoms (2) effectiveness in reducing their cravings and controlling their opioid use (3) decreased fear of withdrawal and/or missing doses(4) improvement in the quality of life(5) patient-related factors like family support (6) effectiveness of the treatment program. Around nine percent of patients reported family support as the reason for retention, which is not noticed in other studies. Barriers reported by the patients while on medication were: (1) negative effect experienced with medication (2) program related difficulties like distance, unavailability (3) major life event interrupting the treatment (4) patient-related factors like low mood, financial constraints.

Conclusions

Understanding factors associated with barriers to treatment provide insights into preventable factors that contribute to premature drop out from BMT and to improve clinical practice, policy decisions, or future research.
Smoking among patients followed at the department of psychiatry
Authors: Kerkeni A. , Abbes W. , Abbes M. , Medhaffer K. , Zitoun K. , Ghanmi L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Smoking and nicotine dependence are particularly common in patients with a psychiatric disorder compared to the general population.

Objectives

To study the prevalence of smoking in patients followed at the department of psychiatry and to assess their dependence on nicotine.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study. The study focused on patients followed at the department of psychiatry of the regional hospital of Gabes. Sociodemographic and clinical data were assessed. Fagerstrom questionnaire in its validated French version was used to assess the nicotine dependence. Data were analyzed using the software SPSS (20th edition).

Results

100 patients were included. They were male (60%) and single (50%) and with a mean age of 45.3 years [18-71]. The three most common pathologies were anxiety disorders (31%), schizophrenia (30%) and depression (29%). Among the patients surveyed 48% were smokers. Of which, 93.7% smoked cigarettes, 20.8% snorted chewing tobacco and 12.5% smoked hookah. The average number of pack-years was 11.6, with an average of 22.8 cigarettes per day. The mean duration of regular smoking was 19.1 years. Regarding nicotine dependence, 42% of patients were dependent. Regarding the degree of dependency, 43.7% were heavily dependent, 25% were weakly dependent and 18.8% were moderately dependent. Smoking was significantly associated with the male gender (p≤10-3), alcoholism (p=0.002) and schizophrenia (p=0.006).

Conclusions

Results of our study show that smoking is frequent in patients followed at the psychiatry department. This aspect should be taken into account during the psychiatric evaluation, especially when therapeutic resistance occurs.
Mc Donalds’ model of deliverance of opioid substitution treatment in COVID-19 crisis in opioid belt in rural India : A retrospective - comparative study
Authors: Uppal G.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

COVID-19 has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March, 2020. Opioid substitution therapy (OST) for opioid-dependent patients is an evidence-based, effective outpatient (OPD) based treatment maintained on medications(, buprenorphine-naloxone combination). These are difficult times for patients with addictive disorders. Authors came up with an idea of implementing “walk through” out patient model inspired by “Drive through” model of Mc Donalds in which Doctor and Nurses run open space OPD near to Medical record section to reduce the waiting time of patient, quick delivery and minimize droplet exposure.

Objectives

To study the efficacy of Mc Donald’s model of OST in OST centre in Tarn Taran, india.

Methods

This was a restrospective-comparative study. We studied records of our patients using streatment as usual from September 2019 to March 2020 and using Mc Donald’s model (From April 2020 to October, 2020) for a period of 6 months during and before lockdown.

Results

The average number of patients attending OST clinics during Covid lockdown was 352.8. The compliance rates significantly improved (57.82%), The drop out rates were much lower (20.78%), using Mc Donald’s model than usual treatment.

Conclusions

As per our knowledge, this study is first of its kind to study the efficacy of OST drug deliverance in pre Covid and Covid times and suggest, the new findings which can be inculcated in the other OSTs.
Treating addiction with psychedelics - are we waking up?
Authors: Miranda J. , Barbosa M. , Figueiredo I. , Mota P. , Tarelho A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Classic psychedelics have been administered in sacramental contexts since ancient times. They were of prominent interest within psychiatry and neuroscience in the 1950s to 1960s, but the association between classic psychedelics and the emerging counterculture put an end to their research. Modern research with classic psychedelics has reinitiated interest in the treatment of both cancer-related distress and addiction, with really promising results.

Objectives

We aim to provide a review about history and new insights regarding research with psychedelics specially as treatment of addictive disorders.

Methods

A framing analysis of articles, searched on Pubmed (articles between 2010-2020) with the key words: “ psychedelics”, “psilocybin”, “substance use disorder”, “addiction”.

Results

Classic psychedelics are 5HT2AR agonists such as LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin. They were shown to occasion mystical experiences, which are experiences reported throughout different cultures and religions involving a strong sense of unity. These experiences are scientifically important because they appear to cause abrupt and sustained changes in behavior and perception, that can be very useful in the substance use disorder field. From this analysis is possible to understand that the use of psychadelics in the treatment of some addictions is currently at an early stage of research. However, they show interesting results with no clinically significant adverse events when risk individuals are excluded.

Conclusions

In comparison to psychedelic research about cancer-related psychological distress, studies with addictions are less developed, but if they continue to suggest safety and efficacy, may be the use of psilocybin for the treatment of specific addiction can happen in a close future.
Relationship between online cognition and personality traits: A questionnaire based study of medical college students
Authors: Ohri N. , Gill A. , Vankar G. , Tyagi P. , Reddy S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Current classification systems are not sure where to place the internet use disorder. Is it an addiction, an impulse control disorder, a consequence of another psychiatric morbidity or a consequence of personality trait/personality disorder?

Objectives

We intended to study which personality traits associated with online cognition may contribute towards Problematic internet use(PIU). We also analysed the relationship between number of hours of use/week of internet and PIU along with its relation with two ‘screening’ questions.

Methods

Online cognition scale and Abbreviated Eysenck Personality questionnaires were our measurements of choice in addition to demographic measures and some questions pertaining to online behaviour patterns.

Results

Total 163 responses were analysed. The demographic pools consisted mostly of young adults who had, on average, used the internet for 5.2 years at present rate of 21.81hours/week. We observed significantly higher mean OCS scores in men, in people who thought that the internet interfered with their lives and in those who felt the need to ‘cut-down’. A moderate positive and significant correlation was observed between hpurs/week of internet use and OCS scores. Also, significant positive correlation was observed between Neuroticism and OCS, impulsivity, and loneliness/depression scores. Significant negative correlations were observed between the Lie trait and impulse control. Neuroticism and Lie together contributed to 21.8% of variance in OCS scores.

Conclusions

Neuroticism and Lie traits (representing need for social acceptance) were found to the causing significamn varience in the OCS scores of the subjects. High number of hours/week use of internet was related to the feeling of ‘need to cut down use’.
Pornography cyberaddiction and impulsivity among medical tunisian students
Authors: Meseddi N. , Bouhamed M. , Bouattour O. , Chamseddine A. , Charfeddine F. , Aribi L. , Aloulou J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Medical studies have always been considered as very stressful. Although these students are generally among the most academically successful students, they are not spared from developing both substance and behavioral addictions, particularly pornography cyberaddiction.

Objectives

To evaluate the pornography cyberaddiction in a group of tunisian students, to study their impulsivity and determinate the link between these two entities.

Methods

A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study including 155 medical students. We used the S-IAT sex : to evaluate pornography cyberaddiction and Barrat bis 10 : to evaluate impulsivity.

Results

The average age of students was 25.8 ±3.5 years old. The sex ratio (M/W) was 0,72. This medical students were single in 76.8%, had a high socio-economic status in 99.4% of case. They had a personal psychiatric history in 15.0%. They are smokers in 20%, consume alcohol in 30.3% and cannabis in 9% of case. The mean score of : the BIS 10 was 63.3 and the S-IAT was 15.6. The viewing of pornographic movies started around the age of 15 years old. Pornographic sites are the most frequently used tool (58.2%). The factors correlated with this addiction are: male sex (p=0.014), tobacco consumption (p=0.012), alcohol consumption (p=0.02) and impulsivity (p=0.03).

Conclusions

It resort from our study that medical students may suffer from pornography cyberaddiction. This increased use may be associated with impulsivity and substance use. Psychological support aimed specifically should be used to protect medical students.
Physical pain – suicidality association in adults: A meta-analysis
Authors: Rignanese M. , De Filippi M. , Salmè E. , Madeddu F. , Calati R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Multiple epidemiologic and clinical studies have explored the relationship between physical pain and suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

Objectives

The aim of this meta-analysis was to provide an update of the data already present in literature about this specific association in adults.

Methods

Starting from a meta-analysis published by Calati and colleagues in 2015, 28 studies were included in this work. After searching on Pubmed (until March 2020), data were extracted from articles comparing the rates of current and lifetime suicidal thoughts and behaviours (death wish, suicidal ideation, suicidal planning, suicide attempt and suicide death: DW, SI, SP, SA, and SD) in adults with any type of physical pain and in individuals who did not report this condition. Data were analysed using Cochrane Collaboration Review Manager software (RevMan, version 5.4).

Results

Although high between-study heterogeneity was detected in most analyses, results suggested that adults with physical pain are more likely to report any form of suicidal outcome, except for death by suicide, compared to individuals not affected by pain. No evidence of publication bias was reported in the main analysis (lifetime SA).

Conclusions

Collected data are therefore in line with previous literature on this topic, which considered physical pain an extremely relevant risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Future studies should specifically focus on alternative types of physical pain (such as medically unexplained pain or psychogenic pain) or explore the different impact of acute versus chronic pain in terms of increased suicide risk.
Can narcissism be considered a risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors? A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Sprio V. , Madeddu F. , Calati R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Although suicide showed an association with personality disorders, few studies focused on narcissism. This association is interesting, especially in what authors called a “narcissism epidemic”, considering narcissistic wounds to which subjects could be subjected.

Objectives

To systematically review studies investigating the association between narcissism and suicidal risk.

Methods

We focused on the association between narcissism (NPD, narcissistic traits) and suicide (Suicidal Ideation (SI), Non-suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI), Deliberate Self-Harm (DSH), Suicide Attempt (SA) and Suicide (S)). Studies were identified through a PubMed-based search. Reference lists were examined to extract additional articles. This review was performed according to PRISMA Statement.

Results

We included 33 studies. Most studies evaluated narcissism through DSM, showing heterogeneous results. NPD was associated with low impulsivity and high planning, but also with a higher number of SAs. Studies evaluating narcissism as a trait were more coherent. SI, NSSI and DSH showed an association with vulnerable narcissism. These associations were explained by mediation and moderation models including shame and dissociation. The grandiose component was associated with severe repetitive NSSIs and S in high suicidal risk samples. Impulsivity showed no effect.

Conclusions

It is possible to develop hypothesis, even if not causal relationships, on the association between narcissism and suicidal risk. Grandiose narcissism seemed to be protective for suicidal outcomes with low intent to die, while vulnerable narcissism seemed to be associated. However grandiose narcissism seemed to be a risk factor for suicidal outcomes with high intent to die, showing low impulsivity and high planning and severity. New studies, differentiating between narcissistic components, are needed.
Mental health, suicidal behavior and sexual orientation in Portugal
Authors: Pereira H.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Sexual minority individuals consistently report higher rates of mental disorders and suicidal behavior than heterosexuals. However, much of this research is limited to Anglo-Saxon studies and no information on Portuguese reality is available.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to compare levels of mental functioning and suicidal behavior among heterosexual, bisexual, and homosexual individuals in Portugal.

Methods

Using online surveys, 1140 individuals (62.40% women, Mage = 36.83, SDage = 13.39, 76.4% heterosexual, 9.4% bisexual, and 14.2% gay or lesbian) completed the BSI subscales for depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised.

Results

Self-identified bisexual participants presented higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms and higher levels of suicidal ideation and likelihood of suicidal behavior than homosexual and heterosexual participants (who scored the lowest); yet, homosexual participants showed higher levels of suicide attempts. Also, depression and anxiety symptoms were strongly and positively correlated with all dimensions of suicidal behavior. Finally, hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that higher levels of depression and non-heterosexual sexual orientations were significant predictors of suicidal ideation and the likelihood of suicidal behavior.

Conclusions

The present study adds to the evidence that sexual minority individuals are at risk of increased mental health problems and suicidal behavior, compared to heterosexuals, and reiterates the need for local political and legislative efforts to normalize LGB identities, fighting continued institutional heterosexism, interpersonal intolerance. Mental health providers and mental health policymakers need to consider these results if they want to address inequalities in mental health and in suicidality among these minority groups.
Suicidal behaviour in huntington disease
Authors: Freitas R. Mota , Valadas M.T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Huntington Disease (HD) is a genetic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Its clinical features include motor dysfunction, cognitive impairments, and psychiatric symptoms. The association between HD and suicide is well documented, and the risk of suicide in HD is higher than in patients with other neurological diseases.

Objectives

We aim to review the literature regarding suicidal behaviour in HD.

Methods

We performed an updated review in the PubMed database using the terms “suicide”, “suicidal behaviour” and “Huntington Disease”. The included articles were selected by title and abstract.

Results

The most relevant risk factors associated with suicidality in HD are depression, anxiety, and aggression, so the presence of psychiatric diagnoses should be closely monitored. No consistent results have been found regarding gender. Evidence for periods of elevated risk of suicidal behaviour in HD is mixed and the data on specific pharmacological interventions for alleviating suicidal ideation in HD is scarce.

Conclusions

Patients with HD are at a high risk for suicide. This risk is further increased when a comorbid psychiatric disorder is present. It is important for the practicing psychiatrist to be aware of this association to correctly manage patients with HD, thus helping prevent suicidal behaviour.
Addictive behavior and suicidality in patients followed by the department of psychiatry in the region of southern tunisia
Authors: Kerkeni A. , Abbes W. , Frikha A. , Medhaffer K. , Abbes M. , Zitoun K. , Ghanmi L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Addictive behaviors and suicide have important risks that need to be explored for any patient followed at the department of psychiatry, possibly endangering his vital and psychosocial prognosis.

Objectives

Our study aims to identify the link between addictive behavior and suicidal behavior in patients followed at the psychiatry department at the regional hospital of Gabes.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study carried out on a clinical population who consult in the psychiatry department in the Gabes’s regional hospital during the period from January 1st, 2020 to September 30, 2020.Sociodemographic and clinical data of the patients as well as their personal and family history were assessed. The evaluation of psychopathological disorders was carried out according to the diagnostic criteria of DSM-5. Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire (SBQ) was used for suicide risk assessment. Fagerstrom questionnaire in its validated French version was used to assess the of nicotine dependence. The exploration of childhood physical and emotional trauma was carried out by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) scale. Data were analysed using the software SPSS.

Results

100patients were included. The mean age was 45.5years. TableI: Breakdown of addictive behavior and suicide attempts by gender. TableII: Common vulnerability factors between addictive behavior and suicidality

The analytical study showed that suicide attempts were correlated with addictive behaviors (p = 0.03) and that suicidal recurrence was correlated with addictive behaviors (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Suicidal behavior in patients followed in psychiatry is closely linked to addictive behavior, hence the importance of early management.
Suicidal behaviors: Relationship with body mass index and serological indicators
Authors: Esgalhado G. , Costa I.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Current research has demonstrated associations between variables of a biomedical nature with the presence of psychological indicators.

Objectives

To analyze the relationship between levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and Body Mass Index (BMI) with suicidal behaviors, on a non-smoking sample, without women who take birth control pills and participants without depressive pathologyTo analyze the relationship between levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and Body Mass Index (BMI) with suicidal behaviors, on a non-smoking sample, without women who take birth control pills and participants without depressive pathology.

Methods

We used a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire - revised (SBQ-R) to evaluate the suicide ideation, suicide attempt and the probability of committing suicide. The sample is composed of 166 participants with ages between 18 and 89-years-old, 54.2% are men and 45.8% are women.

Results

We observed a weak association between serological indicators with some components of suicidal behaviors. It is also observed that higher cholesterol levels are associated with a higher probability of suicide; normal BMI is related to an increase of suicidal ideation; and the age group of 41 to 89 years-old presents a higher probability of committing suicide.

Conclusions

It is further concluded that age, gender, marital status, place of residence, education and professional status are significantly associated with suicidality. Yet, the influence of cholesterol, triglycerides, and BMI levels on suicide behaviors was not supported.
Suicidality and relation with dissociation and alexithymia in PNES and conversion disorder
Authors: Longo L. , Jannini T. , Merlo M. , Bombacci C. , Biancolino M.R. , Rossi R. , Carlo E. Di , Niolu C. , Siracusano A. , Lorenzo G. Di
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Amongst different subtypes of Conversion Disorder (CD), DSM-V lists the Psychogenic Non-epileptic seizures (PNES). PNES are defined as episodes that visually resemble epileptic seizures but, etiologically, they are not due to electrical discharges in the brain.

Objectives

Our study aims to explore the differences between PNES and other CDs. In particular, we studied the suicidality and its correlations with dissociation and alexithymia.

Methods

Patients, recruited from the Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology Unit of the Fondazione Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy, were diagnosed with PNES (n=22) and CD (n=16) using the DSM-5 criteria. Patients underwent the following clinical assessments: HAM-D, BDI, DES, BHS, TAS, CTQ.

Results

PNES showed significantly higher scores than CD in all assessments, except for BDI-somatic (p=0.39), BHS-feeling (p=0.86), and the presence of childhood trauma. PNES also showed significantly higher suicidality (p = 0.003). By controlling for the confounding factor “depression”, in PNES suicidality (and in particular the BHS-loss of motivation) appears to be correlated with DES-total score (p = 0.008), DES-amnesia (p = 0.002) and DES -derealization-depersonalization (p = 0.003). On the other hand, in CDs, the BHS-total score shows a correlation with the TAS-total score (p = 0.03) and BHS-Feelings with TAS-Externally-Oriented Thinking (p = 0.035), while only the BHS-Loss of motivation appears correlated with DES-Absorption (p = 0.011).

Conclusions

Our study shows significant differences between PNES and CD, in several symptomatologic dimensions, including suicidality. Indeed, in PNES suicidality appears to be related to dissociation, while in CDs it appears mainly to be correlated with alexithymia.
Standardized training in the rating of the six-item positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS-6)
Authors: Kølbæk P. , Dines D. , Hansen J. , Opler M. , Correll C. , Mors O. , Østergaard S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The six-item Positive And Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS-6) is short psychometric valid scale quantifying the severity of core schizophrenia symptoms. Using PANSS-6 to guide treatment decision-making requires that staff members’ ratings are valid and reliable.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to evaluate whether such valid and reliable PANSS-6 ratings can be obtained through a video-based training program.

Methods

One-hundred-and-four staff members from Aarhus University Hospital - Psychiatry, Denmark participated in the training. Participants conducted baseline PANSS-6 ratings based on a video of a patient being interviewed using the Simplified Positive And Negative Symptoms interview (SNAPSI). Subsequently, a theoretical introduction video was displayed followed by five SNAPSI patient interviews. After each SNAPSI video, individual ratings were performed before a video providing the gold standard scores was displayed. The validity of ratings was estimated by calculating the proportion of participants not deviating from the gold standard scores with >2 points on individual items or >6 points on the PANSS-6 total score. Reliability was evaluated after each step in the training by means of Gwet’s Agreement Coefficient (Gwet).

Results

By the end of the training, 72% of the participants rated within the acceptable deviations of the gold standard, ranging from 60% (nurses) to 91% (medical doctors/psychologists). The reliability improved (Gwet baseline vs. endpoint) for all PANSS-6 items, except for Blunted affect.

Conclusions

The majority of the staff members conducted valid PANSS-6 ratings after a brief standardized training program, supporting the implementation of PANSS-6 in clinical settings to facilitate measurement-based care.

Conflict of interest

Dr. Opler is a full-time employee of MedAvante-ProPhase Inc. Dr. Correll has been a consultant and/or advisor to or have received honoraria from: Acadia, Alkermes, Allergan, Angelini, Axsome, Gedeon Richter, Gerson Lehrman Group, Indivior, IntraCellular T
Do podcasts improve the learning experience of dyslexic medical students?
Authors: Parsons C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

There has been a rapidly increasing rate of students disclosing specific learning difficulties in higher education- in 2016 dyslexic students accounted for up to 5% of the student population.(Ryder D, Norwich B.)

Objectives

It is important that provisions for alternative learners are developed in order to increase accessibility to medicine. Podcasts are an inexpensive, accessible and convenient method to both deliver education and interest pieces to a new generation of learners. This poster aims to explore the idea of harnessing the technology available to us to create an accessible, enjoyable platform to improve the experience of students with learning difficulties.

Methods

A literature search reviewing the past and present provisions for students with learning difficulties was conducted using a range of databases covering educational, scientific and medical backgrounds. 315 papers were found across the databases, each analysed for relevance and 25 were selected as appropriate.

Results

identified 5 key themes; the lack of awareness and importance of education, the power of audio learning, the practicalities of podcasts, adjustments to examinations specifically and finally additional provisions which accompany audio learning to create an all-inclusive educational experience. Altogether suggesting podcasts have an improved outcome for students with learning difficulties.

Conclusions

It has been evidenced understanding is key to maximising learning potential and highlighted need to increase awareness of dyslexic needs in higher education institutions, generate audio centred provisions in conjunction to traditional materials and be aware of alternative provisions to cater for the spectrum of dyslexic needs.
To assess the confidence levels of psychiatrists in physical healthcare competencies in one irish region, and to explore whether confidence was related to learning opportunities
Authors: O’Donnell M. , Pradeep V. , Dunne C. , Gulati G. , Kelly B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The bi-directional relationship between mental and physical illness is well established. Therefore, in order to lower the already high mortality rates associated with psychiatric disorders, physical health issues must be closely monitored in this population [1,2]. A recent Lancet commission highlights emerging strategies and recommendations for improvement of physical health outcomes in patients with chronic mental disorders. These strategies involve better integration of physical and mental health care, combined with broader implementation of lifestyle interventions to reduce elevated cardiometabolic risk and attenuate medication side-effects [3].

Objectives

To assess psychiatrists’ confidence levels in physical healthcare competencies; to explore whether confidence was related to learning opportunities.

Methods

Physical healthcare learning objectives were extracted from the Irish College of Psychiatrists’ training curriculum. An electronic questionnaire was sent to 50 psychiatrists in one Irish healthcare region with a catchment area of c. 450,000. Participants had to rate confidence levels for each competency on a five-point Likert scale and the availability of learning opportunities for attaining each competency.

Results

66% response rate was achieved. A majority reported confidence in cardiovascular examination, interpreting blood results and evaluating comorbidities. A minority reported confidence in interpreting imaging, electrocardiograms and recognising medical emergencies. This corresponds to a relative paucity of learning opportunities.

Conclusions

Clinical implication Programmes for trainee doctors and CME opportunities for consultant psychiatrists would benefit from an emphasis on physical health examination and modules on interpreting investigations and the recognition of medical emergencies.
Knowledge translation research: Teaching psychopharmacology using research domain criteria
Authors: Mehl-Madrona L. , Mainguy B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Research Domain Criteria are coming to be required for applications for mental health research funding in the United States.

Objectives

To translate contemporary neuroscience research into teaching medical residents how to prescribe psychiatric medications.

Methods

We explore the neuroscience literature regarding neural circuitry and psychiatric symptoms and examine the neurotransmitters associated with those circuits. We associate psychiatric symptoms with the neural circuitry that produces those symptoms. We correlate medications with circuits which they might affect and symptoms they might ameliorate.

Results

RDC is an alternative to DSM and ICD-10. Contemporary scientific diagnoses are not based on neuroscience. They are overlapping, contradictory, often vague, and hinder adequate research. Diagnoses are needed that are based on brain circuitry and function rather than ”expert” opinion. The basis for RDC lies in psychiatric disorders being brain disorders with a primary focus on circuitry function. This contrasts with neurological disorders that have identifiable structural lesions. Symptoms are normally distributed and exist in everyone. RDC proposes to seek the distribution of traits and characteristics, defining abnormal as the extremes of these distributions rather than by defining mental disorders by signs and symptoms which give a diagnosis. We ask what are the brain system that primarily implements the traits, functions, and characteristics of interest. We explore what accounts for the development of dysregulation or dysfunction in these systems alongside normal-to-abnormal dimensions? We describe resident reactions to this style of teaching and show greater comfort in prescribing medications.

Conclusions

Translating Research Domain Criteria into psychiatric prescribing will move psychopharmacology into contemporary neuroscience.
A risky business: Teaching clinical risk assessment in the midst of a global pandemic
Authors: Oates A. , Wilson-Jones C. , Butler S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Assessing risk is an important core skill yet there is not a consensus as to how to teach it. Clinically, there has been a move away from using risk prediction tools in favour of clinical judgement.We describe an iterative process to develop high quality, online teaching around risk assessment for medical undergraduates.

Objectives

To teach the clinical skill of risk assessment to enable medical students to evaluate and manage risk when encountering patients with mental health issues.

Methods

A half day tutorial was designed and refined in an iterative process using feedback from participants on this session and other concurrent teaching occurring in the department. Sessions were also reviewed by external medical educators to ensure quality and learning objectives were met.

Results

The average rating from 62 students was 4.4/5. Students commented that the session was well organised and delivered. Following feedback, the use of actors was prioritised to simulate evolving clinical situations. Students placed a high value on this: “simulated patients were amazing! They were really interesting and I was able to practice the skills I learnt over placement”. Logistical changes e.g. more breaks, followed appreciation of the exhausting nature of the session and maintained student engagement. There was increased emphasis on promoting group interaction through functions like a ‘break-out room’.

Conclusions

This session may give educators confidence that they can take risks when teaching the skill of risk assessment. Students were receptive and meaningfully engaged with concepts such as clinical judgement and bio-psycho-social formulations as opposed to ‘tick box’ assessments.