bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The possible role of platelet APP processing in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Gurrieri R. , Carbone M. G. , Arone A. , Palermo S. , Marazziti D. , Gemignani A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) stands as the most prevalent form of dementia. Alzheimer’s Disease is acknowledged to have a complex origin, a gradual neurodegenerative progression, and a wide-ranging clinical profile marked primarily by progressive memory loss, cognitive decline, and various functional impairments that significantly diminish the quality of life: Key characteristics of AD encompass the presence of amyloid plaques, which are characterized by the pathological accumulation of insoluble β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregates within the brain tissue and blood vessel walls.Several reports have indicated the existence of cerebral abnormalities within platelets in individuals afflicted by AD.

Objectives

The objective of this investigation was to review studies investigating the metabolism of APP in platelets among individuals with AD to identify potential dependable peripheral indicators leading to novel approaches to its management and treatment.

Methods

A systematic review according to the PRISMA guidelines was carried out, by accessing the PubMed database up to June 2023. The authors screened the titles and the abstracts of all the potentially relevant papers on the basis of a strict list of exclusion and inclusion criteria.

Results

A total of thirty-two studies were included. The evidence points towards the observation that AD individuals exhibit various modifications in platelet APP processing when compared to matched healthy controls, that are frequently associated with the severity of cognitive impairment and functional independence. The majority of the evidence supports changes in platelet ADAM-10 activity, β-secretase activity, APP ratio, a state of heightened platelet activation or hyper-responsiveness, and a potential release of platelet APP via vesicular mechanisms, which may ultimately contribute to Aβ production.

Conclusions

Platelets offer a promising peripheral model for detecting and evaluating molecular changes associated with AD, as they hold the potential to provide vital insights into the development of an effective diagnostic tool and open doors to innovative therapeutic approaches.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Sociodemographic factors as a predictor for pregnancy-related anxiety
Authors: Abdelkefi M. , Walha R. , Feki R. , Zid W. , Gassara I. , Smaoui N. , Omri S. , Charfi N. , Zouari L. , Ben Thabet J. , Maalej Bouali M. , Chaabene K. , Maalej M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to a wide variety of psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety related to pregnancy and childbirth.

Objectives

The purpose of our study was to determine the sociodemographic characteristics of pregnant women and investigate their relationship with pregnancy-related anxiety.

Methods

The study was conducted from February to July 2023 among pregnant women in their 3rd-trimester consulting at the Gynecology-obstetrics department of the Hedi Chaker University Hospital of Sfax, Tunisia. Women with obstetric conditions favorable to vaginal delivery (cephalic presentation and eutrophic fetus) were interviewed using a questionnaire including their sociodemographic characteristics and the brief version of the pregnancy-related anxiety questionnaire PRAQ-R2.

Results

A total of 350 women were included in our study. The mean age of the participants was 28 years [16-41 years] with the majority being married (95.7%). One hundred and eighty-eight women (53.7%) did not graduate from high school and 213 (60.9%) were housewives. Half of the participants (52.9%) lived in the city, and 38.9% reported low income. Almost half of them (46.28%) were multiparous.

The mean score of the PRAQ-R2 was 31.24 ± 7.53.

We found a positive correlation between the PRAQ-R2 scale score and age younger than 30 years (p<0.001), low educational level (p=0.006), and low income (p=0.031).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that demographic factors seem to predict anxiety related to pregnancy and are worth examining in future studies for a better understanding of this symptom in pregnant women.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Who Is Right? Behavioral Problems from the Perspectives of Parents and Children with ADHD symptoms
Authors: Sitnik-Warchulska K. , Izydorczyk B. , Markevych I. , Szwed M. , Sawicki A. , Lipowska M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Diagnosing behavioral problems in children and adolescents, which include conduct symptoms, anxiety, or somatic complaints, is frequently based on subjective perceptions and interviews with family or caregivers. However, current theoreticians and practitioners of systemic theory are increasingly emphasizing that there are multiple subjective narratives about oneself, the world, and one’s symptoms. The question is whether these narratives are equivalent, and if not, under what circumstances do they diverge?

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate whether the perception of behavioral problems among young adolescents with ADHD aligns with their parents’ perspective, and whether family bonding is a factor in this association.

Methods

The analytic sample comprised about 200 children, aged 10-14 years, and their parents, mostly coming from well-situated families. The data were collected as a part of the NeuroSmog project. The variables were measured by the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL), the Youth Self Report (YSR), the Family Adaptation and Cohesion Evaluation Scales (FACES-IV). The structural equation modelling (SEM) to analyse data was used. The models were also stratified by age, sex, and social status.

Results

There is a significant difference between the perspectives of parents and children regarding the level of behavioral problems. Family bonding is associated with behavioral problems among children, but this relationship is only evident from their perspective.

Conclusions

The perception referring to family narratives has the most significant impact on individual functioning.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Clinical / Therapeutic Name: Care and treatment of prisoners with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Tort Herrando V. ,   Forensic Psychiatric Section
Published: August 2024

Care and treatment of prisoners with intellectual disabilities I will describe what is the care, from different points of view when an offender with intelledtual disabilities entry in the penitentiary system. As a vulnerable population, people with intellectual disabilities have to be treated in a more specific manner, and both prison managers and clinciacal staff have to be aware of of that. This prisoners, sometimes, also belongs to another vulnerable population ( illegal inmigration, fenmales, ehtnic groups ,etc) that make this cases as a complex ones.  The care have to be as a comprehensive, with thr higest standards of care a nd avoid neglicence en treating this cases. We have to emphasize about rehablitation and a goodl coordnation with the intellectual disability community services to avoid relapse and recidivism

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Social determinants of involuntary psychiatric hospital admissions in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Fung K. P. , Kim S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In Ontario, Canada, patients may be admitted to the hospital involuntarily if they are deemed to be suffering from symptoms of a mental disorder that may result in imminent serious bodily harm to themselves or others, or that may cause serious physical impairment to themselves (e.g., inability to keep themselves safe and warm in the winter). This measure can be life-saving. However, in addition to ethical and human rights considerations, resorting to coercive admissions may be an indication that those who are suffering from mental illness are not able to access or receive timely and appropriate intervention. While recent studies have suggested that the rate of involuntary hospital admission may be increasing, data on social determinants of involuntary hospital admissions are limited.

Objectives

We examined social factors associated with involuntary admissions using a Canadian provincial database.

Methods

Binary logistic regression models were conducted to examine the associations between social factors (low income, indigeneity, rurality, housing type) and involuntary admissions, controlling for age, sex, and psychiatric diagnoses. Data from March 2019 to March 2021 was extracted from the Ontario Mental Health Reporting System admission dataset, comprising of a sample of 9,848 patients admitted to eight psychiatric hospitals in Ontario. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are reported.

Results

In 2021, the proportion of involuntary patients increased significantly by 6.8 percentage points to 55.7% compared to the previous year (48.9%). Indigenous status (First Nations, Metis, Inuit) [1.75 (1.38-2.21) **], living in rural areas [2.78 (2.48-3.12)], living in assisted residence [1.41 (1.21-1.64) **], homelessness [1.63 (1.38-1.91) **], male sex [1.21 (1.10-1.33) **] and younger age [0.99 (0.98-0.99) **] were associated with involuntary admissions, while income was not a significant factor. Compared to a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder, substance use disorders [0.11 (0.10-0.13) **] and mood and anxiety disorders [0.32 (0.29-0.36) **] showed decreased odds of involuntary admission, while neurocognitive disorders increased the odds of involuntary admission [3.86 (2.91-5.11) **].

Conclusions

Consistent with other findings, involuntary psychiatric hospital admissions in ON, Canada, have increased recently, which may in part be related to the pandemic. Rurality, indigenous status, and unstable housing have been found to be associated with involuntary admissions. The study findings support the need for better preventive and intervention strategies to serve vulnerable psychiatric patients, including addressing the social determinants of health such as housing, and increasing access to culturally competent and safe community-based mental health supports and services.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Comparison of Val66met Polymorphism of BDNF gene in patients of bipolar disorder and healthy controls.
Authors: Srikantamurthy M. , Moirangathem S. , Viswanath B. , Purushottam M. , Jain S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The study aims to explore the utility of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism as a potential biomarker in Indian bipolar disorder patients and its correlation with clinical characteristics.

Objectives

Genotyping Val66Met in BDNF gene

Exploring its association with bipolar disorder (BD).

Methods

150 consenting BD patients and matched controls were recruited using a case-control study design. BD severity was assessed using Young’s mania rating scale and the Clinical Global Impression - Severity (CGI-S) scale. BDNF Val66Met polymorphism was identified through real-time PCR after DNA extraction. Data was tested for normal distribution. Genotype frequencies between two groups were compared and the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium assumptions were tested using Chi-Square tests. Clinical-genotypic associations were explored using the Kruskal-Wallis test and confirmed using hierarchical regression.

Results

Our sample had more males (60%) than females (40%) with mean age of 35.05 years. Most patients had established bipolar disorder and were severely ill (CGI: 38.75, YMRS). Val66Met SNP genotype frequency differed significantly between cases and controls. Val66Val genotype and Val allele were higher in cases. Results consistent with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.Table 1.

Genotype frequencies of BDNF (rs6265) in cases and controls

GENOTYPECCCTTTCASES94(62.6%)47(31.3%)9(6%)CONTROL71(47.3%)69(46%)10(6.6%)CHI-SQUARE-
7.431DF(Degree of freedom) - 2p-value- 0.024Table 2.

Dominant genotype frequencies in cases and controls

DOMINANT GENOTYPECCCT+TTCASES94(62.6%)56(37.3%)CONTROLS71(47.3%)79(52.6)CHI-SQUARE-7.125DF(Degree of freedom)-1p-value-0.007Table 3.

Allelic frequencies of BDNF (rs6265) in BD cases and healthy controls

ALLELIC VARIATIONCTCASES235(78.3%)65(21.6%)CONTROLS211(70.3%)89(29.6%)CHI-SQUARE-5.032DF(Degree of freedom)-1p-value- 0.024

Conclusions

Our study found that Val66Val genotype and Val allele were higher in cases and could be a potential biomarker for bipolar disorder (BD), which is consistent with previous research conducted on the European population. However, further investigations are required to gain a more comprehensive understanding of its impact on BD, including its association with serum BDNF levels, treatment outcomes, and a more diverse study population.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Pharmacogenomics in Psychiatry: An Asian Perspective
Authors: Goh S. E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Pharmacogenomic testing in psychiatry is an emerging area with the potential clinical application of guiding medication choice and dosing. However, this has not been adopted widely due to a combination of barriers that include a varying evidence base, clinician and patient familiarity and acceptance, uncertainty about cost-effectiveness, and regulatory requirements.

Objectives

This review aims to examine recent updates in this field and provide a contextualised summary and recommendations for Asian populations. The recommendations serve to guide healthcare professionals in the utility of pharmacogenomic testing in psychiatric practice.

Methods

A review of recent literature about current evidence and guidelines surrounding pharmacogenomics in psychiatric practice was carried out with particular attention paid to literature evaluating Asian populations. Literature was reviewed for the different classes of psychotropics with supplementary information about Asian populations included where available. Existing evidence about combinatorial pharmacogenomic panels was also reviewed.

Results

In line with the available body of evidence, we recommend that pharmacogenomic testing should be employed as an augmenting tool to guide medication selection and dosing in certain clinical situations, and not as part of standard or routine clinical practice. Pharmacogenomic testing should also be mainly limited to the known drug-gene pairs such as the anti-depressants and CYP2C19 or CYP2D6. Clinicians should also be aware that many of the gene-drug associations have not been evaluated for clinical outcomes. Combinatorial pharmacogenomic panels are not presently recommended as there is limited and inconclusive available evidence on clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Pharmacogenomic testing in psychiatry is not recommended as standard or routine clinical practice. Exceptions may include concerns about drug concentrations (due to metaboliser status) or potential severe adverse drug reactions/ Pharmacogenomic testing should be mainly limited to the known drug-gene pairs such as the anti-depressants and CYP2C19 or CYP2D6.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
ASCL1 dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia by regulating genes associated with neuronal signature formation and neuroplasticity
Authors: Abashkin D. , Marilovtseva E. , Karpov D. , Golimbet V.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

ASCL1 (Achaete-scute homolog 1) is a neuron-specific transcription factor involved in CNS maturation in the mammalian brain. It has been shown to be associated with schizophrenia (SZ), Parkinson’s disease, and the development of brain tumors. ASCL1 is expressed in the neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y, which is a widely used model for the study of neurodevelopmental diseases, including SZ.

Objectives

The aim of this work was to study the effect of functional ASCL1 knockout on the transcriptional landscape of SH-SY5Y cells in undifferentiated and neuron-like phenotypes.

Methods

For ASCL1 deletion, SH-SY5Y was sequentially transduced with two lentiviral vectors. One pLV-rtTA-Cas9-(nls)-pCMV-eGFP-PuroR-T2A-rTetR (derived from pCW-Cas9 and pEGFP-Puro) construct encoded Cas9. Stably transduced lines were selected for 3-5 days on puromycin (2 g/L). The inducibility of Cas9 expression was checked after adding the inducer oxytetracycline to the culture medium. The second construct (based on pLK05-tagRFP) encoded, a pair of guide RNAs targeting the start and end of the ASCL1 gene. The sgRNA construct was transduced into the SH-SY5Y-Cas9 cell line in parallel with a nontemplate control (NTC gRNA) as a negative control. Cas9 expression was induced with oxytetracycline for 2 days. Individual clones were obtained by serial dilutions. ASCL1 partial deletion in the clones was confirmed by PCR followed by Sanger sequencing. Disruption of ASCL1 protein synthesis was confirmed by western blot analysis. SH-SY5Y differentiation was induced by retinoic acid (RA). The transcriptomes of mutant clones and NTC controls before and after RA-induced differentiation were sequenced using Illumina technology.

Results

RNAseq data show that a wide range of genes are differentially expressed between control NTC gRNA and wild-type SH-SY5Y. This can be explained by insertional mutagenesis of lentiviral vectors and/or cellular response to the presence of lentiviral constructs. Therefore, we compared the transcriptomes of the ASCL1-del line with NTC control. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are predominantly associated with the pathogenesis of SZ, bipolar and depressive disorders. DEGs in ASCL1-del are involved in cell mitosis, neuronal projection, neuropeptide signaling, and formation of intercellular contacts including the synapse. During RA-induced differentiation, ASCL1 activity is restricted to the regulation of a small subset of genes involved in neuroplasticity.

Conclusions

We have established a valid cellular model to study ASCL1-mediated mechanisms associated with SZ. ASCL1 dysfunction promotes SZ development predominantly before neuronal differentiation begins, slowing cell proliferation and preventing the formation of neuronal signatures.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Validating and Adapting the Brief Resilient Coping Scale for Greek Humanitarian Workers
Authors: Bakola M. , Reppas S. , Sakaretsanou A. K. , Kitsou K. S. , Vaitsis N. , Angelakou-Vaitsi S. , Mavridou K. , Veizis A. , Gourzis P. , Jelastopulu E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Humanitarian workers (HWs) face significant challenges while providing aid to those in need, often leading to psychological exhaustion and the risk of primary or secondary trauma.

Objectives

Our study aimed to validate and adapt the Greek version of the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) for HWs in Greece.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study between September and December 2022. Participants were recruited through a self-administered questionnaire distributed via social media to humanitarian groups. Additionally, the questionnaire was sent via email to these groups’ members, who then forwarded it to their respective networks. The questionnaire included the BRCS, a 4-item measure designed to capture tendencies to cope with stress in a highly adaptive manner. A score of 4-13 points indicates low resilient copers, 14-16 points medium resilient copers and 17-20 points high resilient copers. Cronbach’s alpha was used to assess internal consistency. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was employed to evaluate model fit. Adequate or good fit criteria included a χ2 test p-value ≥ 0.05, Root Mean Square Error Approximation (RMSEA) ≤ 0.08, Standardized Root Mean Squared Residual (SRMR) ≤ 0.05, and a Comparative Fit Index (CFI) or Tucker–Lewis Index (TLI) ≤ 0.90. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA and SPSS software.

Results

A total of 151 humanitarian workers (76% females), with a mean age of 39.3±10.6 years participated in the study. The mean BRCS score was 65.6/100. Participants were categorized as follows: 34.6% as low resilient copers, 38.6% as medium resilient copers, and 26.8% as high resilient copers. Cronbach’s alpha for the BRCS was 0.84, indicating good internal consistency. CFA results supported the one-factor solution proposed by the original researchers, with acceptable global fit indices: Chi-square p-value = 0.303, SRMR = 0.028, RMSEA = 0.036, CFI = 0.991, TLI = 0.974.

Conclusions

The findings of our study show that the Greek version of BRCS is a valid and reliable tool that can be used to evaluate resilient coping among humanitarian workers in Greece.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Examining Sexual Well-being across the Lifespan: Assessing the Relationship between Sexual Satisfaction and Adjustment to Aging
Authors: Miguel I. , von Humboldt S. , Leal I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Sexual satisfaction is relevant to aging well, throughout the lifespan.

Objectives

This study aims to compare the perspectives of sexual satisfaction and adjustment to aging in three age cohorts, across the life span; and to analyze whether sexual satisfaction influences the perceptions of AtA.

Methods

This cross-sectional study comprised participants from three different age cohorts (18-44; 45-64; and 65+ years). Four measures were used to meet the defined objectives: (a) Adjustment to Aging Scale (ATAS); (b) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NISS-S); and (c) sociodemographic, health and lifestyle questionnaire. Data were subject to One-way ANOVAs and hierarchical regression analyses.

Results

Social support emerged as the most relevant dimension in the multifactorial nature of AtA. Generational differences were found in sense of purpose and ambitions [F (2, 616) = 14.203, p = .000], social support [F (2, 616) = 10.65, p = .000] and body and health [F (2, 616) = 8.73, p = .000]. Participants aged 65 and older showed significantly lower levels of sense of purpose and ambition, body and health, and social support. Younger participants showed the highest score for body and health. Age-related decreases in sexual satisfaction were also found, as younger participants showed statistically higher levels of sexual satisfaction, followed by middle-aged and older participants. Sexual satisfaction predicts all the dimensions of AtA, exception made for aging in place and stability, where age is the main predictor. Ego-centered sexual satisfaction positively predicted sense of purpose and ambitions (β = .212, p < .05) and social support (β = .311, p < .001); while partner/sexual activity centered sexual satisfaction was a positive predictor of zest and spirituality (β = .255, p < .01), body and health (β = .239, p < .001), and social support (β = .168, p < .05).

Conclusions

Sexual satisfaction decreases with age and is positively related to all dimensions of AtA, hence gerontological interventions and program policies with older people would strongly benefit of including sexual satisfaction as a relevant variable for aging well.

Keywords: sexual well-being; sexual satisfaction; adjustment to aging; generational groups; lifespan.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Subgroups of patients with late onset schizophrenia-like psychoses revealed by the analysis of glutathione-dependent enzymes and inflammation markers
Authors: Prokhorova T. , Boksha I. , Androsova L. , Tereshkina E. , Pochueva V. , Savushkina O.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

While chronic inflammation and enhanced imbalance of pro- and antioxidant, including glutathione-dependent, systems contribute substantially to pathogenesis of mental disorders in old age, extent of oxidative stress and degree of inflammatory processes severity are varying among patients with late onset schizophrenia.

Objectives

Revealing various phenotypes in patients with late onset schizophrenia basing on measurement of activity levels for blood glutathione-dependent enzymes and inflammation markers and analysis of their links with clinical features of the patients.

Methods

Of 59 studied women patients 34 were with late onset (after 40 years) and 25 with very late onset (after 60 years) schizophrenia or schizophrenia-like psychoses (F20; F22.8; F25; F23; F06.2 by ICD-10). 34 mentally healthy women elder than 50 years comprised controls. Glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), neutrophil elastase (NE), and α1-roteinase inhibitor (α1-PI) activities were measured in blood. PANSS, CDSS and CGI-S were used to assess the severity of psychotic symptoms, depression and treatment effectiveness.

Results

In the whole group of patients, GR was lower (p<0.05), and α1-PI was higher (p<0.0001) than in control group. Clustering the patients by their biochemical and immunological signs revealed two clusters (C1, n=34, and C2, n=25) significantly differing by GST (p<0.0001), NE (p<0.0001), and α1-PI (p<0.001) activities. As compared with controls, GST and α1-PI were higher (p<0.05 and p<0.0001), and NE was lower (p<0.05) in C1. As compared with controls, GR activity was lower (p<0.05), NE activity was higher (p<0.001), and α1-PI activity was much higher (p<0.001) in C2. Patients of C1 and C2 did not differ in age, diagnosis, severity of the disease, but differed in clinical features of the course of the disease: significantly more patients with very late onset schizophrenia (76%) were met in C1 (χ2=13.41, p<0.001). Also, different clinical-biological correlations were found in these clusters. Particularly, negative correlations of baseline NE activity with PANSS general psychopathology subscale scores (R=-0.39, p<0.05) and with total PANSS scores (R=-0.39, p<0.05) were found in C1. Positive correlation of GST activity with PANSS positive subscale score was found in C2 (R=0.43, p<0.05).

Conclusions

The revealed clusters differ in the extent of the glutathione antioxidant system impairment and in levels of the immune response markers. The revealing of the patient subgroups on the basis of biological markers reflecting impairments in metabolic and immune systems can represent interest in the search for individual treatment approaches.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Investigation of the Effect of Curcumin on Metabolic Dysfunction Caused by Clozapine in Rats
Authors: Aydin M. , Egilmez U. , Eryavuz D. , Unlu A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Antipsychotics disrupt intracellular cholesterol traffic and prevent the exit of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-derived cholesterol from the endosome/lysosome compartment. It was showed that curcumin accelerated the release of cholesterol-containing exosomes from cells with impaired intracellular cholesterol traffic due to antipsychotic treatment and suggested that curcumin may help minimize the negative metabolic effects associated with chronic antipsychotic treatment.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of orally administered curcumin to rats in preventing and treating metabolic syndrome-related side effects such as weight gain and dyslipidemia caused by clozapine.

Methods

In our research, a total of 32 male rats (Wistar Albino), 12 weeks old, produced at Selçuk University Experimental Research and Application Center, were used. All animals divided into 4 groups. Venous blood collection and weight measurements were taken from all groups at the beginning. 32 rats were randomly divided into 4 separate groups: control, only oral clozapine, oral clozapine + 50 mg/kg curcumin, and the oral clozapine + 100 mg/kg curcumin group. Groups II-III-IV were given 15 mg/kg clozapine orally daily for 3 weeks. AST, ALT, glucose, total cholesterol, Triglyceride, HDL, LDL and insulin were studied from the blood samples taken at the beginning and at the end of the experiment.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in comparisons of weight and insulin measurements between the groups at the end of the experiment (p>0.05). In glucose measurements at the end of the experiment, the control group was found to have significantly higher glucose values compared to the other groups (p <0.001). As a result of posthoc analyses, LDL measurements in the control group were found to be lower than those in the CLZ and CLZ +50 c groups (p<0.05). AST value of the control group was significantly higher than the CLZ+100c group (p=0.011). Measurements of the control group for ALT were found to be higher than those of the CLZ+50c and CLZ+100c groups (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in HDL, TG, Cholesterol comparisons (p>0.05).

In the control group, the average weight at the end of the experiment was significantly higher than at the beginning (p = 0.045). In the CLZ group, the mean glucose at the end of the experiment was significantly lower than at the beginning (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Metabolic problems due to antipsychotics negatively affect treatment compliance. Treatment support methods that can solve or help this problem may be useful. Our study ended in conflicting results. Needs for new experiments…

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Impact of Ageism on Civic Engagement and Mental Health Among Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: von Humboldt S. , Costa A. , Ilyas N. , Leal I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Ageist beliefs and attitudes may restrict the opportunities for older adults to participate actively in their communities, resulting in strong effects on mental health.

Objectives

This study has three objectives: 1) To investigate the effect of ageism on older adults’ civic activities; 2) To analyze the influence of ageism on mental health; and 3) To explore the impact of civic participation on older adults’ mental health.

Methods

This qualitative study included 391 older people from three different nationalities (Portuguese, Brazilian and English) ranging in age from 65 to 88 years old. All the interviews went through the process of content analysis.

Results

For the first objective, findings encompass four major themes: (1) Social disapproval (86%); (2) Perceived Ineptitude (84%); (3) Anticipated Failure (83%); and (4) Inability to Contribute (77%). For the second objective, findings indicated six categories: (1) Helplessness and Despair (89%); (2) Rage (81%); (3) Self-Perceived Inability (77%); (4) Sense of Unimportance (71%); (5) Anxiety (68%); and (6) Outbursts of Emotion (63%). For the third objective, the following five major subjects emerged: (1) Meaningfulness (81%); (2) Embracing Social Belonging (80%); (3) Cognitive Abilities (71%); (4) Personal Empowerment (67%); (5) Emotional Expression (54%). Additionally, findings indicated that the most verbalized themes for the three objectives were the same across the three nationalities.

Conclusions

The results of this study offered insight into how ageism, mental health, and civic engagement are related. Ageism seems to have a negative impact on mental health. Ageism also made it difficult for people to participate in civic life, which has been linked to better mental health. These findings emphasize the need to identify ageism and encourage inclusive civic involvement to improve older individuals’ mental health.

Keywords: Mental health; ageism; civic participation; older adults.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Suicidal behavior in homeless population and its relationship with experienced aggressions: A seven-year longitudinal study.
Authors: Calvo F. , Alfranca R. , Solench-Arco X. , Giralt C. , Forcada I. , Font-Mayolas S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Suicide is a serious and complex public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Among the most vulnerable populations are homeless individuals (HIs), whose suicide rate is significantly higher than that of the general population.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze mortality and suicidal behavior in a cohort of HIs during a seven-year follow-up. Additionally, the study sought to identify variables linked to mortality in this population.

Methods

The study was conducted in the province of Girona, Spain, and included 154 HIs who were literally experiencing homelessness. Self-report questionnaires were used to gather sociodemographic data, assess suicide risk, and measure the severity of substance dependence. The follow-up was carried out between 2015 and 2022, collecting data on mortality, suicide attempts, episodes of overdose, and violence experienced from public health services (psychiatric and primary health care services).

Results

During the seven-year follow-up, 23 individuals (14.3% of the sample) passed away, with an average age at the time of death of 52.6 years. The main causes of death were cancer, suicide (excluding overdose), and accidental overdose. Methods used for suicide included drug overdose, jumping, and vein slashing. All deceased individuals had scores above the threshold on the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale and had reported previous suicide attempts.

Individuals who experienced violence during the follow-up period exhibited more severe suicidal ideation, more suicide attempts, and more non-lethal overdose episodes. Substance dependence, particularly cocaine dependence and dual pathology, was significantly associated with higher mortality.

Conclusions

This study reveals a high mortality rate among HIs, especially due to suicide and accidental overdose. The most significant variables related to mortality were suicidal ideation, the number of previous non-lethal overdoses, and substance use disorders, with cocaine dependence being prominent. The results underscore the need for specific prevention and treatment programs to address suicide risk factors and improve the mental health of homeless individuals. The importance of conducting interventions in specialized centers that detect and address suicide risk in this vulnerable population is also emphasized.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The relationship between children’s rumination and parental rumination, worry and depressive symptoms
Authors: Szőke J. , Klein M. , Örkényi Á. , Kökönyei G.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Rumination is a transdiagnostic phenomenon that is linked to psychological and physical symptoms not only in adulthood but also in childhood. Several distal and proximal factors are believed to underlie the development of ruminative tendencies, with parental characteristics and modelling being among those with a potential association with the increased levels of children’s rumination.

Objectives

The primary aim of the study was to investigate the link between rumination in children and parental functioning, including rumination, worry and depressive symptoms. Additionally, we aimed to test the association between rumination and psychological and somatic health in a sample of healthy children and early adolescents.

Methods

153 children (87 girls, mean age = 10.74; SD = 0.91 years) and their parents (130 females, mean age = 42.65; SD = 4.08 years) participated in the study. For children, Kid Rumination Interview (KRI; Baiocco et al., 2017) was used, alongside the assessment of nine subjective health complaints. KRI employes 4 images to measure the frequency of rumination. Self-reported questionnaires were also completed by parents to report on worry, rumination, and depressive symptoms.

Results

Contrary to our expectations, there was no significant association between children’s rumination and parental rumination (r = .06, p = .506), worry (r = -.02, p = .850) and depressive symptoms (r = -.01, p = .979). Psychosomatic complaints in children exhibited a positive albeit weak association with parental depressive symptoms (r = .17, p = .046). Regression analysis revealed that the frequency of rumination occurring in the four situations associated significantly with psychosomatic symptoms (β = .266; t = 3.321; p = .001) after controlling for sex and age.

Conclusions

Our findings are in line with previous studies demonstrating the relationship between rumination and psychosomatic symptoms in older adolescent samples. However, parental perseverative cognitions and depression were unrelated to ruminative tendencies in children. Nevertheless, the modest sample size and the employment of a different assessment approach compared to self-report questionnaires may have influenced our findings.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Long-term prognosis of chronic depression in adolescence
Authors: Kaleda V. , Migalina V.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

juvenile chronic depression is characterized by high prevalence, difficulties in diagnosis, nosological qualification and prognostic assessment. According to epidemiological data, the frequency of these conditions ranges from 1.5% to 3% in the general population (Gutiérrez-Rojas et al. Braz. J. Psychiatr 2020; 42 657-672), and among all depressions in adolescence, a chronic course develops in about 20% of cases (Blanco C., 2010 et al. The J clinical psychiatry 2010; 71(12) 6501). Due to the polymorphism of the clinical picture and the peculiarities of juvenile ontogenesis, difficulties arise in nosological and prognostic assessment.

Objectives

to study the long-term prognosis of chronic depression, depending on the variant of its course.

Methods

Catamnestic examination was performed on 64 patients of adolescent age (16-25 years), for chronic depressive state lasting more than two years (F31.3, F31.4, F32 (except F32.3), F33 (except F33.3), F34, F34.1, F21, F20 according to ICD-10). The duration of the catamnesis is more than 10 years. The PSP scale was used for psychometric assessment.

Results

when analyzing the ten-year course of juvenile chronic depression, three variants were identified: regredient (23.4%), monotonous (35.9%) and progredient (40.6%). The regredient course was characterized by a marked reduction or disappearance of psychopathological disorders with the formation of further remission with a high level of functioning in all spheres of life and complete social and labor adaptation (81-100 points on the PSP scale). The monotonous course was characterized by low variability and insignificant dynamics of individual manifestations throughout the disease with the preservation or some decrease in the level of educational and labor adaptation with the restoration of previous social contacts and a fairly high quality of life (scores 61-80 on the PSP scale). The progressive course was characterized by the gradual addition of new psychopathological disorders, or the aggravation of existing ones, patients had a distinct decrease in educational, labor and social adaptation (scores 50-31 on the PSP scale) or complete maladaptation of all spheres of life (scores <40 on the PSP scale).

Conclusions

The high incidence of progressive and monotonous course in juvenile chronic depression, contributing to a decrease in the level of functioning of patients, indicates the importance of timely detection of these conditions and the need for careful selection of therapy.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Alexithymia in population with depressive disorders and suicidal ideation: results of an observational study
Authors: Martínez P. , Campos A. R. , Jiménez Aparicio T. , Fernández Lozano M. , Merizalde Torres M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In clinical practice, significant delays in requesting help are observed in patients with depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine factors associated with the time of untreated illness in a population with depressive disorder attending mental health for the first time in the area of Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid (HCUV).

Methods

Methods: This is an observational study including adult patients of both sexes, referred to their first mental health consultation from their Primary Care Physician, with a picture of depressive symptomatology associated with an identifiable stressor. Informed consent was obtained from the patients and authorized by the Ethics Committee of the HCUV. R Studio ® statistical analysis.

The degree of emotional confusion was quantified with item 1 (“I am often confused about the emotions I feel”) of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS). This item is scored ( 1-5 )from most severe (1) to least (5). On the other hand, the time in weeks between symptom onset to referral, age and symptom severity according to the Montgomery Scale (MADRS) were recorded.

Results

Results: We present data collected in an initial sample of 278 treated patients, with a female predominance (68%), a MADRS severity score (18.05 ± 5.01) and a calculated time without treatment of 59.66 ± 62.26 weeks (Tables 1,2,3).

A subsample of 72 patients with death ideation was studied, with a female predominance (75%) compared to the overall sample (X2 =1.99, p = 0.1585) (Table 4).

It was also observed that death ideation was higher in younger patients (t = 3.18, p = 0.001907) and with a severe MADRS depression score (t = -7.92, p < 0.0001), however they took a similar length of time to receive mental health treatment (T student t = -1.6605, p = 0.099); (Table 5).

There is no previous published evidence that considers the timing of untreated symptoms. According to test statistics, there are differences in untreated symptom time considering gender and TAS score (Table 6).

Conclusions

Death ideation is a current health problem that deserves attention. In multivariate analysis models, an association with clinical and demographic factors has been found; however, there is up to 20% of the variation in prevalence that is not explained by the aforementioned factors. The factors that determine the time delay in seeking help (treatment delays) have not been studied so far.

In this study we observe how a single variable doesn’t explain the delay in the first visit. The interaction between age, gender, alexithymia and hypoprosexia explains the delay in seeking help, although symptom severity doesn’t seem to be related. These data suggest that unexplained causality in multivariate studies may be related to the interaction between clinical and neuropsychological factors.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Emotional disorders in the structure of psychoorganic pathology in tumors of the diencephalon
Authors: Sidneva Y. , Astafyeva L. , Zaitsev O. , Kalinin P. , Kutin M. , Shkarubo A. , Fomichev D. , Voronina I. , Andreev D. , Sharipov O. , Chernov I. , Klochkova I. , Badmaeva I. , Donskoy A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The tumors of the diencephalon region (thalamic-hypothalamic-pituitary system) include a large group: pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, gliomas, and others. Tumors differ in the histological structure, and manifestations of the clinical symptoms; by hormonal data; by approaches and methods in treatment.

Psychic symptoms are revealed in disease in addition to cerebral, neuroendocrine symptoms, neurological disorders. Psychoorganic syndrome is represented by emotional, motivational, personal, cognitive impairments, inversion of the sleep-wake cycle, seizures.

Disorders of mental activity are detected in all tumors of this localization in varying degrees, according to the different authors from 20 to 100%; affective pathology varies from 2 to 80% by the literature.

Objectives

To study the emotional disorders in the structure of psychoorganic pathology in tumors of diencephalon region

Methods

290 patients (18-78 years old, mean age 38+2): pituitary adenomas (PA), as the most common – 170 (58,6%), craniopharyngiomas (CG), as with the most varied manifestation of mental symptoms – 120 (41,4%). Methods: psychopathological, data from endocrinological, neurological, neuroimaging methods.

Results

Emotional disorders were detected in patients from 30 to 68% of cases, depending on the histology of the tumours: PA with excessive secretion of growth hormone - emotional disorders are in 60%; PA with excessive secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone - in 50%; PA with excessive secretion of prolactin - in 30%; with excessive secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone - in 40%; non-functioning PA - in 16%; CG - in 68%.

Emotional disorders were more often represented by changeable mood, depression, apathy, sleep disturbance, and visceral symptoms. Symptoms differed depending on the histology of the tumor (type and level of hormones), the volume of the lesion and direction of growth, and concomitant hypertensive-hydrocephalic symptoms. Emotional disturbances often include memory impairment, personality and behavior changes.

Conclusions

Emotional disorders are detected in patients in 30-68% of cases in the structure of psychoorganic pathology with damage to the diencephalon region (in particular, with pituitary adenomas and craniopharyngiomas); are determined by the topography of the tumor and histology with the involvement of the corresponding structures and nuclei in the pathological process.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Alexithymia, emotion regulation and autistic traits in Familial adenomatous polyposis
Authors: Vieira A. , Martins F. , Machado A. S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a condition characterised by multiple polyps inside the colon or rectum, leading to colorectal cancer in all patients who do not perform prophylactic colectomy and a higher risk of cancer in other organs. Nevertheless, it has been reported that 14-48% of patients do not comply with regular endoscopic surveillance, which seems to be related to the lower levels of emotional distress observed in these patients. Also, APC gene polymorphisms have been described as being related to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism.

Objectives

To study the prevalence of alexithymia, autistic traits and emotion regulation strategies in patients with FAP.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients with a genetic or clinical FAP diagnosis and assessed for alexithymia, autistic traits and emotion regulation using psychometric tests - Toronto Alexithymia Scale - 20 items (TAS-20), Autism-Spectrum Quotient Test (AQ) and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), respectively. The control group were patients with Lynch Syndrome. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS vs.26.

Results

We recruited a total of 20 patients (10 with FAP vs 10 with Lynch Syndrome). Nine patients were male (45%) versus 11 female (55%). The mean age was 53,35 years (SD 18,4). Half the sample presented a low educational level (equal or inferior to 4th grade).

The overall prevalence of alexithymia was 65%, with an 80% prevalence in FAP patients and 50% in Lynch Syndrome. TAS-20 total score was higher in FAP patients (69,0 vs 60,7; p=0,68). Externally-oriented thinking subscale score was statistically higher in FAP patients (p=0,024).

The overall prevalence of autistic traits was 25%, and the mean AQ score was higher in FAP (23,4; SD 4.97) compared to Lynch Syndrome patients (20,2; SD 5.57), but there were no statistically significant differences between the diagnoses (p=0,192).

A moderate positive correlation exists between Total AQ and Total TAS (r=0.51; p=0.020).

Concerning the scores obtained on the ERQ scale, most participants (14; 70%) use Expressive Suppression as a regulation strategy. Patients with Lynch Syndrome had higher scores than those with FAP, both in the Cognitive Reappraisal (4.22; SD 1.58 vs 4.28; SD 0.90) and Expressive Suppression (4.58; SD 1.08 vs 5.15; SD 1.03) domains.

The average AQ score for patients who mostly use expressive suppression is significantly higher than for those who use cognitive reappraisal (23.86 (3.63) vs 17.00 (6.6); p=0.039).

Conclusions

The preliminary results of this study point to high levels of alexithymia and autistic traits in this population, and a higher tendency to regulate emotions by expressive suppression.

The main limitation of the study was the small sample size, which reduced the power of the study to find statistically significant differences. Also, in future studies, a different control group should be considered.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared