bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Effect of Resilience and General Quality of Life on Frailty in the Elderly
Authors: Tepetaş M. , Ay A. , Yücel E. , Kavlu E. , Önsüz M. F. , Metintaş S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

As the life expectancy at birth improved, the increase in the elderly population, one of the most vulnerable groups in society, brings about some problems. Frailty is a condition that increases the risk of progressive deterioration in physiological functioning, hypersensitivity to stress and adverse health outcomes. Frailty is quite common in older people. In frail older people, recovery from illnesses is delayed and the likelihood of sequelae is increased. If frailty is recognized early, the likelihood of disease sequelae and mortality can be reduced.

Objectives

This study was conducted to determine the relationship between psychological resilience and quality of life on frailty in individuals aged 65 years and older admitted to hospital.

Methods

The study group of this cross-sectional study consisted of 504 people who applied to an outpatient clinic at a university hospital. The Tilburg Frailty Scale, the Connor Davidson Psychological Resilience Scale Short Form and the EQ-5D-3L General Quality of Life Scale were used. The Kolmogorov-Simirnov test, the chi-square test, the Spearman correlation analysis and the multivariate logistic regression were used to analyse the data.

Results

292 of the participants in the study group were men. Their ages ranged from 65 to 90 years, and the mean was 70.5±4.9 years. Scores on the Tilburg Frail Scale ranged from 0 to 14, and the mean was 6.3±2.7 points. In the study, 71.1% of participants were classified as frail. It was determined that there was a moderate negative correlation between the results of the Tilburg Frailty Scale and the results of the Connor Davidson Psychological Resilience Scale (r= -0.436) and the EQ-5D-3L VAS Scale (r=-0.608) and a strong positive correlation between the results of the EQ-5D-3L Index Scale (r=0.729)(for each p<0.001). According to multivariate logistic regression, people who did not exercise regularly were 2,33 times more frail than those who did, and people who had a health problem that required bed rest were 2,18 times more frail than those who did not.

Conclusions

It was found that the frailty of people aged 65 and over is at a moderate level. An improvement in psychological resilience and general quality of life as well as an improvement in general health reduces frailty. It is recommended that people aged 65 and over to be physically active and to protect from situations that may require prolonged bed rest.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Unveiling the Perspectives on Sexual Unwellness: A Cross-National Qualitative Study with Older Adults from Mexico and Portugal
Authors: von Humboldt S. , Mendoza-Ruvalcaba N. M. , Ribeiro-Gonçalves J. A. , Chávez-Rodríguez A. , Arias-Merino E. D. , Low G. , Leal I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Sexual unwellness (SU) has been linked to a lack of sexual satisfaction and to an incapacity to maintain sexual relations.

Objectives

The objective of this cross-cultural study is to shed light on older adults’ perspectives on SU across cultures.

Methods

Eighty-three older participants (65 to 98 years of age) took part in this qualitative study. Participants lived in the community and were of two different nationalities (Portuguese and Mexican). Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and content analysis was then carried out.

Results

SU emerged in the findings of the content analysis through six themes: Dissatisfying Sexual Experiences; Feelings of Isolation; Spirituality; Medication; Unattractiveness and Pain. The most common theme among older Portuguese participants was ‘Dissatisfying Sexual Experiences’ (25.5%). ‘Feelings of Isolation’ was most common among older Mexican participants (13.7%).

Conclusions

A diversity of experiences of older adults in relation to SU was highlighted in this study. Moreover, cross-cultural research on the construct of SU is essential for understanding the cultural differences in the conceptualization of the construct and how these themes may influence the quality of sexual life in old age.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Microdosing psychedelics in the treatment of ADHD and comorbid disorders
Authors: Kuypers K. P.
Published: August 2024

Microdosing psychedelics has garnered considerable attention within both nonprofessional circles and the scientific community in recent years. This method involves taking small, non-hallucinogenic doses of substances like LSD or psilocybin over weeks or months, purportedly to enhance specific behaviors, emotions, or address psychiatric conditions.

Exploring these assertions is crucial given the potential therapeutic value of microdosing, especially in conditions that respond positively to full psychedelic doses, such as depression. The full psychedelic experience might not always be suitable due to various factors like age, capacity to consent or comprehend the experience (e.g., dementia), or individual personality traits that might hinder surrendering to the experience. Microdosing could potentially serve as a maintenance therapy post-full dose administration, aiding specific psychological or biological processes during therapy or therapeutic exercises.

Recent studies in healthy individuals highlight that small psychedelic doses have nuanced effects on pain perception, mood, neuroplasticity, sleep duration, brain connectivity, and default mode network synchronicity. However, some parameters show null effects after both single and repeated administration.

Our survey research uncovered that individuals with ADHD reported symptom relief through microdosing, deeming it more effective than their conventional treatments. Subsequently, we conducted a naturalistic study following individuals with ADHD across a 4-week microdosing period. Our findings indicated a reduction in symptoms over time, an increase in trait mindfulness, and a decrease in neuroticism compared to baseline. While these results are intriguing, they necessitate validation in a clinical trial. We have recently concluded such a trial and are currently analyzing the data to further explore these effects.

Disclosure of Interest

K. Kuypers Grant / Research support from: The author is a principal investigator on a research project that is sponsored by Mindmed, a company that is developing psychedelic medicines.
Artificial Intelligence in Psychiatry: A New Paradigm
Authors: Gerantia M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has sparked interest in its applicability in the mental health domain, offering potential improvements in the efficiency and personalization of psychiatric services.

Objectives

To characterize the methodological and technical approaches in studies utilizing machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) within mental health, to evaluate their potential and impact in psychiatric clinical practice, and to address the associated ethical concerns.

Methods

A systematic review, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, was conducted across four primary medical databases. Emphasis was placed on studies that applied machine learning and NLP techniques to psychiatric contexts, extracting data from sources such as medical records and social media.

Results

From 327 identified articles, 58 were considered relevant. Major themes included symptom extraction, illness severity classification, therapy effectiveness comparison, and psychopathological insight derivation. Notably, most studies focused on specific populations like social media users, emergency room attendees, or those within medical databases. Methodological findings showcased a preference for efficient classifiers and Python as the primary platform.

Conclusions

Machine learning and NLP offer a promising new avenue for psychiatric research and clinical practice, enabling the extraction of previously inaccessible patient information and supporting the decision-making process. However, the field must address inherent limitations, ethical considerations, and ensure that the tools augment, rather than replace, clinical judgment.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Associations between Health-Related Quality of Life, Illness Perception, Stigmatization and Optimism among Hematology Patients: a Path Analysis
Authors: Kiss H. , Müller V. , Dani K. T. , Pikó B. F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Hematological diseases represent a diverse disease group ranging from benign to life-threatening conditions, with hematological malignancies being a major cause of mortality in the population worldwide. Although most hematological diseases require ongoing medical care making these conditions even more difficult for patients to endure. Since these diseases can pose many challenges by causing symptoms and limitations in various aspects of daily life, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a crucial aspect of their healthcare. Different dimensions of health-related quality of life are influenced by several psychological factors, including illness perception, stigmatization, and optimism: a more positive illness perception, along with optimism and reduced stigmatization, can contribute to a better HRQoL among hematology patients.

Objectives

Since hematological diseases often cause serious life changes, the current study aimed to explore the direct and indirect effects of illness perception on health-related quality of life among hematology patients in Hungary, including stigmatization and optimism as possible contributors.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 96 hematology patients (mean age = 56.45 years; SD = 15.55 years; 43.8% female) completed a self-administered survey including the following instruments: EORTC Quality of Life Scale, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Stigma Scale for Chronic Illness, Revised Life Orientation Test.

Results

By creating two pathway models, illness perception had significant indirect effects on physical functioning (β = -.205, p < .05) through role and cognitive functioning while emotional functioning had significant indirect effects on social functioning (β = .369, p < .01) through illness perception and stigmatization, both effects moderated by optimism. After controlling for other factors, both illness perception and emotional functioning directly influenced physical and social functioning, respectively.

Conclusions

Our study supports previous research on the direct and indirect effects of illness perception on HRQoL. Based on our data, more optimistic illness perceptions and greater emotional functioning improve hematology patients’ health-related quality of life by facilitating an unbiased understanding of the disease. Optimism serves as a potential moderating mechanism by positively altering indirect effects. Healthcare professionals need to optimize patients’ illness perception to improve physical and social functioning.

Disclosure of Interest

H. Kiss Grant / Research support from: This work was supported by the New National Excellence Program of the Ministry for Culture and Innovation from the source of the National Research, Development and Innovation Fund, #ÚNKP-22-4-SZTE-301., V. Müller: None Declared, K. Dani: None Declared, B. Pikó: None Declared
Changes in clozapine dose and concomitant medication - a 10-year comparative study
Authors: Popa A. V. , Petric P. , Teodorescu A. , Ifteni P. I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic approved for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Although effective, possible side effects make its underutilization still a current problem. The type of titration and dosages used differ worldwide.

Objectives

To asses doses of clozapine and concomitant medications used in schizophrenia during 2012-2013 versus 2022-2023.

Methods

A retrospective observational study analysing clozapine doses and concomitant treatment used in schizophrenia from 2012-2013 compared to 2022-2023. Data were collected from the medical charts of patients admitted to the Clinical Hospital of Psychiatry and Neurology Brasov, Romania, during 2012-2013 and 2022-2023.

Results

In the total of 570 patients who were admitted in 2012-2013 with a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia, 69 (12,10%) of them were treated with clozapine.Of the 69 cases, 53,62% patients were females, mean age was 40,95 years (SD = ±10,32), with an average of onset age 23,17 (SD=±6,21). The average length of stay for hospitalization was 24,97 days (SD= ±12,65). The mean clozapine dose was 393,47 ((SD= ±183,69), with a minimum dose of 100mg/day and a maximum dose of 800mg/day. 37,68% of patients received concomitant treatment with benzodiazepines, mood stabilisers or sedative-hypnotic drugs. None of the patients received concomitant treatment with another antipsychotic.Among the total of 356 patients admitted with the diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia during the 2022-2023 period, 72 (20,22%) of the patients were treated with clozapine. 72,22% patients were females, mean age was 49,12 years (SD = ±11,16), with an average of onset age 25,04 (SD=±6,40). The average length of stay for hospitalization was 18,58 days (SD= ±13,78). The mean clozapine dose was 275,34 (SD= ±146,7), with a minimum dose of 25mg/day and a maximum dose of 600mg/day. 72,22% of patients received concomitant treatment with benzodiazepines, mood stabilisers, sedative-hypnotic drugs or with another antipsychotic. Antipsychotics used in combination with clozapine were both oral (risperidone, amisulpride, quetiapine, aripiprazole) and long-acting injectable (aripiprazole, risperidone, paliperidone, flupentixol decanoate).

Conclusions

Clozapine remains the drug of choice in treatment-resistant schizophrenia even after 10 years, but its mode of administration has changed over time. While the doses of clozapine used have decreased, the percentage of patients receiving concomitant treatment has doubled.Although some side effects of clozapine are dose-dependent, lowering doses and combining with other adjuvant treatment is not always a better option, as polypragmacy and possible adverse effects combined can lead to reduced adherence.The decision to increase the dose of clozapine or to use concomitant (combination) treatment depends on individual factors, including the patient’s clinical condition, response to treatment, and the assessment of potential risks and benefits.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Cascadic failure and preferential decay via pruning mediated percolation on interdependent networks: implications for schizophrenia
Authors: Szalisznyó K. , Érdi P. , Silverstein D. N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

During adolescence the brain is dynamically changing. Destabilization and acceleration of the normal adolescent synaptic pruning process is likely a contributing factor to the neuropathology of schizophrenia. Details on whether normal pruning effects weaker synapses more or uniformly all synapses with different strengths, needs to be further evaluated. Widespread impairment in structural connectivity in schizophrenic patients involving several cortical and subcortical areas, has been previously described. In this computational study, we investigated a stochastic percolation process in interdependent networks, motivated by pathological synaptic pruning. We examined preferential decay in the connectivity decremental process, as well as differential pruning in interconnected subnetworks. Finally, the speed of the percolation process, as well as the potential for pharmacological interventions of percolation in random networks was explored. Statistical structural properties of decaying networks pinpointed several network attributes which the disintegration and phase transitions qualitatively depended on.

Objectives

The following objectives were explored: 1.) Apart from a random percolation process, we investigated preferential decay of the connections. We introduced different percolation rules for various connection types. 2.) Based on previous experimental results, we assumed that different interconnected neural subpopulations prune differently, therefore we explored differential pruning process in the subnetworks. 3.) The speed of the percolation was studied and the pharmacological synaptic connectivity change was also analyzed.

Methods

We considered two inter-connected randomly connected networks, where the connections were removed during the percolation process. Simulations were partially performed using Octave on a Lenovo Thinkpad running the Linux operating system and partially performed on a supercomputer at UPPMAX (NAISS Small Compute 2023 Dnr: NAISS 2023/22-102).

Results

We found that the coupled network system shows rich percolation behaviors with phase transitions for various coupling strength and coupling patterns. The phase transitions of both layers are altered qualitatively between discontinuous, mixed and continuous. Recursively developing percolation in interdependent networks can cause complete fragmentation of these networks, resulting in cascadic failure which might be related to schizophrenia symptoms.

Conclusions

This computational study analyzes the pruning-mediated percolation in interdependent neural networks. Consequences of the pathological overpruning were related to the attributes of the interdependent network properties. Implications for schizophrenia development and predictions for compensatorial iatrogenic percolation was also pinpointed and discussed.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Changes in brain structure and function in youth at familial risk for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder: implications for early intervention
Authors: Sugranyes G. ,   BASYS Working Group
Published: August 2024

The evaluation of child and adolescent offspring of patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder seeks to understand changes taking place in the brain in individuals at heightened risk for disease during a key developmental period. In this session I will present findings from the BASYS (Bipolar And Schizophrenia Young offspring Study) cohort, which has recruited young offspring of patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder ages 6 to 17 years, using clinical, cognitive and brain imaging measures for over 15 years in Spain. I will begin by reviewing our baseline and 2 year findings using structural magnetic resonance imging (MRI) measures, where we found whole brain and regional cortical grey matter volume and surface area reductions, specifically in offspring of patients with schizophrenia relative to controls, but not in offspring of patients with bipolar disorder, which I will compare with results from the ENIGMA relatives working group analyses. Within our cohort I will expain the relevance of baseline brain structural findings to clinical and cognitive outcome over time. I will then present longitudinal analyses of structural anf functional MRI measures at up to 8 year follow-up, examining the influence of development of psychotic spectrum symptoms over time and cognitive and functional outcomes, on longitudinal brain imaging measures. I will finish the talk explaining avenues for future research in the field, which include incorporating other imaging modalities and validating our findings in other cohorts, while I will also present avenues for increasing understanding of the neurobiological changes underpinning our MRI findings.

This project has received funding from Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PI151500467; PI1700741; PI1800696; PI1800976, PI2100330), Fundació Marato TV3 (091630, 202232-30-31), the Catalonia Government (2021SGR01319), PERIS (SLT006/17/00346), Fundació Clínic Recerca Biomèdica (Ajut a la Recerca Pons Bartran), co-financed by ERDF Funds from the European Commission and CIBERSAM.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Promoting mental health by peer education at the University of Debrecen
Authors: Molnár V. A. , Ménes E. , Kósa K. , Tóth L. I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Medical students have been shown to experience mental health problems more frequently compared to their non-medical student peers. This can manifest in pathological levels of stress and depression, and can lead to substance abuse, reduced academic performance, or even suicide.

Objectives

A credit course on professional socialization is offered for medical students at the University of Debrecen in the form of peer education. Our goal was to evaluate experiences of this course delivered in the past 5 academic years.

Methods

After reviewing the relevant literature, the structure of a focus group interview was developed. The focus group consisted of 8 participants and was moderated by the course supervisor with the help of an assistant moderator. The group summarized the number of students completing the course, and narratives of teaching experiences between 2018/19 and 2022/23. They also revised relevant versions of the tutors’ handbook containing the topics and methodology of the course. The duration of the interview was 90 minutes, and it was tape recorded by the assistant moderator, who also made notes in case the tape is inaudible.

Results

Between 2018/19 and 2022/23 61 students finished the course with the help of 23 tutors. The course is offered for students of general medicine, dentistry and pharmacy to improve their positive professional attitudes and social skills through group work and practical exercises. The medical curriculum includes mandatory courses with practical opportunities for developing professional and social skills, but due to the limited number of contact hours and the varying levels of student interest and motivation, these skills are difficult to master. The credit course was developed using the concept of Bálint groups, offering peer-supervised opportunities for motivated students above year 2 to practice their professional skills in controlled conditions while also receiving feedback from their peer group leaders. The course complements the traditional medical curriculum and sensitizes students in a protected environment in which they can observe their own communication more consciously and recognize unfavourable behaviour patterns. Developing the ability to work in a team, learning to listen, and practicing assertiveness during study years can also reduce performance-related stress and future medical errors along with increasing job satisfaction and patient adherence.

Conclusions

Based on the narrative summary of the focus group, both the experiences of participating students and peer teachers are positive, the handbook is a useful tool. The structured focus group provides a suitable method to evaluate the credit course which should be held once every academic year to evaluate the implemented course and explore options to improve future courses.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Dyslipidemia induced by antipsychotics: di”erences between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Tahirovic A. , Zuko M. , Lokmic Pekic I. , Arnautovic Tahirovic M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The introduction of antipsychotics, especialy of newer generation, greatly a”ects the e”ectiveness of the psychiatric treatment of patients with schizophrenia (SCH) and bipolar disorder (BP). Patients su”ering from SCH and BP often have metabolic syndrome (MetSy), as a result of taking antipsychotic therapy, especially in patients with abdominal obesity, there is an atherogenic fat profile that carries a high risk for the development of dyslipidemia.

Objectives

To investigate frequency and di”erences of somatic diseases in patients with SCH and BD depending on the presence of MetSy.

Methods

This five-year prospective study was conducted in the Psychiatric Hospital of Canton Sarajevo. We followed 135 patients with SCH and 135 patients with BD, aged 30 to 69 years, who were treated with antipsychotics for five years.

Results

Dyslipidemia was significantly more common in SCH patients (73.3%), compared to BD (54.1%) and was dominantly presented in women (61.4%). The frequency of dyslipidemia increased with the age of the patient. Associated risk factors in patients with SCH diagnosed with dyslipidemia were 73.5% smokers, 78.7% hypertensive patients, 69.7% patients with elevated BMI and 83.0% with elevated blood glucose values, while slightly lower values were recorded patients with BP. 97.8% of patients with dyslipidemia had elevated CRP.

Conclusions

There are significant di”erences in dyslipidemia in patients su”ering from SCH and BP. Adequate knowledge of the antipsychotic drugs is required in order to provide adequate psychiatric treatment, regarding minimalising adverse e”ects of antipsychotics will be reduced to a minimum. It is important to recognize high-risk patients and educate them about preventive measures.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Empowering Minds: A Comprehensive Study of ECT Treatment in a Reference Mental Health Center in Portugal
Authors: Barbosa Pinto M. , Viseu M. T.D. , Frias Gonçalves P. , Gomes Pereira E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is one of safest and most effective treatments for severe mental illnesses. The ECT Unit of Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António – Magalhães Lemos Hospital (CHUSA-HML) is a reference center for this treatment modality, providing support to the northern region of Portugal.

Objectives

This study aims to characterize patients undergoing ECT treatment from April to June 2023, at the ECT Unit of CHUSA-HML.

Methods

Retrospective study from April to June/2023. Social, demographic, epidemiological and clinical data were evaluated.

Results

Among the 55 patients who were treated there was a predominance in male sex (56%), the average age was 53 years old and only 9 completed higher education. Half of them were in a long-term relationship. Around 67% of patients are retired, predominantly (62%) due to psychiatric disability.

Most patients (78%) were referred through psychiatric consultation and the remainder came from psychiatric hospitalization (only 3 were never hospitalized). 41 patients were under maintenance treatment and 14 under acute treatment. Concerning the type of treatment 30 were submitted to bilateral ECT. For 33% it wasn’t the first ECT treatment. Almost all patients improved their symptoms, only one patient had complications related to the procedure (tooth loss).

According to the international classification of disease (ICD11) the most frequent primary diagnosis was Schizophrenia or Other Primary Psychotic Disorders (58%). Neurodevelopmental disorders and substance use disorders were the most frequently comorbid diagnoses.

The results presented are preliminary, and other data that may be relevant are being collected and processed.

Conclusions

Severe mental illnesses profoundly impact patients, often imposing substantial limitations and suffering. These findings support the safety and effectiveness of ECT as treatment for severe mental disorders. Founding more specialized centers represents an important step toward enhancing mental health treatments. Access to controlled studies is crucial, fostering a deeper understanding of the ECT technique and long-term benefits.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Association between metabolic syndrome, cognitive dysfunctions, and peripheral inflammation in schizophrenia
Authors: Kancsev A. , Kelemen O. , Kéri S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is of primary clinical interest because of its harmful impact on the general health and quality of life of patients with psychotic disorders. Paradoxically, MetS is associated with impaired cognitive functions in patients receiving antipsychotics primarily shown to improve cognition (e.g., clozapine and olanzapine).

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between MetS, cognitive functions, and peripheral inflammation.

Methods

The participants were 154 patients with schizophrenia. Fifty-seven patients met the criteria of MetS. We evaluated cognitive functions with the Repeated Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) quantified the clinical symptoms. We also measured the plasma levels of IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP). In addition to conventional statistics, we also calculated Cohen’s effect size (d) and Bayes Factors (BF10).

Results

Results revealed that patients with MetS exhibited worse cognitive function relative to patients without Mets in attention (d = 0.19, BF10 = 2.3) and delayed memory (d = 0.25, BF10 = 5.7). No significant between-group differences existed in immediate memory, visuospatial functions, and language. The MetS and non-MetS groups did not differ in positive, negative, or general symptoms. Higher IL-6 levels were associated with worse delayed memory (r=-0.56, BF10=34.6).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MetS-associated cognitive dysfunctions are less severe than reported in the literature: it was confined to two cognitive domains, the effect size was small, and the Bayesian evidence level was weak. Peripheral inflammation may mediate the association between MetS and long-term memory dysfunctions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Improving Skills and Knowledge: Adapting a Core Competencies Suicide Risk Assessment Training Program to Support Mental Health Professionals in Hungary
Authors: Bérdi M. , Cramer R. J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Competency and skill-based education and assessment have become increasingly significant in mental health professional training. The conventional approach of acquiring knowledge is now being supplemented by emphasizing practical skills and implementing best practices that prove effective in the field. This emphasis on competencies is particularly apparent in the instruction regarding suicide risk evaluation and management. Cramer and colleagues have identified ten core competencies essential for working with patients at risk of suicide and developed a training material (Cramer et al. 2013, Train. Educ. Prof. Psychol; 1 1-11).

Objectives

We aim to tailor Cramer et al.’s training program to the Hungarian setting and assess its efficacy among mental health experts, including psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and social workers. Additionally, we aim to validate the Suicide Prevention and Assessment - Competency Assessment Form (SCAF-R), which comprises a ten-item survey to measure the ten core competencies’ levels with Likert scales and textual ratings by observers. Through this training program, we aim to offer mental health professionals an educational framework to enhance their skills in evaluating and managing suicide risk. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to suicide risk assessment and better equip professionals to handle this emotionally difficult clinical task.

Methods

We have created a Hungarian version of the core competencies training material tailored to the culture. We are assessing changes in attitudes towards suicide behavior and prevention by administering pre- and post-training psychometric measures, such as Willingness to Intervene against Suicide (WISE), Suicide Behavior Attitude Questionnaire (SBAQ), Attitudes Toward Suicide Prevention Scale (ASP), and Suicide Competency Assessment Form - Revised (SCAF-R). A quantitative analysis will be performed on the responses. The research was approved by Péterfy Hospital’s Institutional Review Board (IRB): approval number 07-2023.

Results

The questionnaires’ results will be summarized with standard statistical methods.

Conclusions

Improving mental health education in healthcare with up-to-date knowledge of evidence-based best practices is a top priority. Enhancing skills and knowledge can lower clinicians’ anxiety in this emotionally challenging and burdensome task. There is a high demand for mental health workshop training among healthcare workers in both undergraduate and post-graduate education. We expect positive changes in attitude and self-perceived competencies in participants.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Basic beliefs about self and the world in people with suicidal ideation
Authors: Medvedeva T. I. , Boyko O. M. , Vorontsova O. U. , Enikolopov S. N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Basic beliefs can be defined as a person’s implicit, global, stable ideas about the world and about himself. The psychological features of people with suicidal ideas can be considered as characteristics of the value sphere of a person who is ready to choose a destructive way of solving problems.

Objectives

The relationship of basic beliefs regarding the general «Benevolence of the surrounding world», its «Meaningfulness» and «Worthiness of the Self» with the presence of suicidal ideas was investigated.

Methods

The study involved 140 people, (117 women). The Janoff-Buhlman World Assumptions Scale (WAS), the short Epstein Rational-Experiential Inventory (REI)), Simptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL-90R), moral dilemmas (proposed by J.D.Green), as well as separate questions about the suicidal ideation, risk tendency were used.

For analysis, the subjects were divided into two subgroups: 98 people without thoughts of suicide; and 42 people answered that they had thoughts of suicide of varying severity. The subgroups did not differ by gender; in the group with suicidal ideation, the average age of the subjects was lower.

Results

In the subgroup with suicidal ideas, almost all indicators of basic assumptions, such as “Benevolence of the World” (average values of 16.10 ± 3.28 and 12.13 ± 4.80 for the control subgroup and the subgroup with suicidal ideas), were lower: “Benevolence of the People “ (15.35±3.07 and 12.42±4.97), “justice” (12.46±3.30 and 10.46±3.60), “value of one’s own self” (16 .21±3.93 and 11.83±5.15), etc., with the exception of the “Self-controllability”, which does not differ between subgroups. Also, in the subgroup with suicidal ideas, the indicators of “randomness” were increased (15.67±3.64 and 18.67±3.96). Indicators on the clinical scale “Hostility” of the SCL-90R questionnaire are also significantly higher in the group with suicidal ideation (average values 0.53±0.5 and 1.29±0.8). In the group with suicidal ideation, there is a higher tendency to take risks. At the level of a statistical trend, the rational method of decision-making in the “Rational - Intuitive” questionnaire is lower (average values 14.3 and 13.0; significance level of differences 0.05). In the “Moral Dilemmas” test, in the subgroup with suicidal ideas, the ratio of choices in personal and impersonal dilemmas is statistically higher (0.67 and 0.93).

Conclusions

It was shown that the presence of suicidal ideas is associated with a reduced indicator of the Worthiness of the Self, the meaningfulness of the world and its benevolence, and with an increased sense of randomness as a principle for distributing ongoing events, which can manifest itself in a propensity for risk, impulsive decisions, devaluation of human life.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Psychological risk factors that predict social networking addiction in students
Authors: Abid W. , Guermazi F. , Mnif M. , Mnif D. , Feki I. , Baati I. , Masmoudi J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Social networks (SN) addiction is a serious problem among young adults that requires increased attention.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the relationships between internet addiction and selected psychological characteristics of university students.

Methods

This is a descriptive and analytical study, conducted over the period from November 2022 to January 2023, among students in various fields. SN addiction was measured using the Social Media Addiction Scale-Student Form (SMAS-SF). The Rosenberg scale was used to assess global self-esteem and the Social Self-Esteem Inventory was used to assess social self-esteem. The Big Five Personality-10 (BFI 10) scale was used to assess the 5 personality dimensions.

Results

A total of 116 students, with an average age of 25.49, took part in the study. Most students (91.4%) were over 20 years old. They were female in 78.4% of cases. They enrolled in postgraduate studies in 55.2% of cases. The majority of students (59,5%) studied medicine. According to the SMAS-SF scale, the average score was 75.87. The mean score for social self-esteem score was 122.03. Sixty-four participants (55.2%) had low and very low self-esteem. The dominant personality dimensions were extraversion and neuroticism in 15.5% each. Addiction to SN was significantly associated with very low global self-esteem (p=0.028) and a lower social self-esteem score (p=0.011). Low conscientiousness and neuroticism were significantly associated with increased SN use (p=0.007, p=0.004 respectively).

Conclusions

This study provides a better understanding of the phenomenon of addiction to SN, and enables us to tailor prevention and care more effectively. The psychological factors associated with this behavior need to be more explored in future research.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Interplay of Environmental Factors, Genetic Susceptibility, and Sleep Disturbances predict Bipolar Disorder’s Relapses: preliminary results from a pilot study
Authors: Bort M. , Fico G. , Oliva V. , de Prisco M. , Bracco L. , Possidente C. , Rivas M. Y. , Ruiz V. , Montejo L. , Vieta E. , Murru A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Predicting acute affective episodes in individuals with Bipolar Disorder (BD) remains a clinical challenge. Specific environmental stressors, including air pollution, noise, and temperature variations might worsen affective symptoms or sleep in the general population, but their role in BD relapses is often overlooked. Indeed, they might exacerbate BD by perturbing circadian rhythms – fundamental aspects of BD.

Objectives

We thereby present the protocol of this pilot study and future preliminary data. We aim to longitudinally assess sleep alterations, mood fluctuations, and environmental exposure to several factors (air pollutants, climate, noise, artificial light-at-night, green space access) in patients with BD and to check the association of these variables with BD relapses.

Methods

In this pilot study, we will recruit 40 patients with BD in a 6-month prospective study. Patients were assessed during baseline, at 3 and 6 months. Data recollected will consist of a subjective (questionnaires) and objective (through meteorological stations) evaluation of physical environmental factors around the home residence; clinical assessment of mood and circadian rhythms, and continuous tracking of sleep-wake patterns, energy, and movement using actigraphy.

Results

Expected results will show that exposure to a worse environment (higher pollution, noise, light exposure, climate) will be associated with worse BD outcomes (i.e., relapse, mood symptoms, sleep alterations).

Conclusions

We will be sharing preliminary data from our ongoing study, offering insights into early patterns and findings that shed light on our objectives.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The Impact of Severe Wildfires on Mental Health: Prevalence of Major Depressive Disorder and Related Factors among Residents in Alberta and Nova Scotia, Canada.
Authors: Mao W. , Shalaby R. , Agyapong B. , Obuobi-Donkor G. , Dias R. , Agyapong V. I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Hundreds of fires have been burning from coast to coast across the country since March 2023, putting Canada on track to experience the worst wildfire season ever. From East to West, provinces such as Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Alberta, and British Columbia have been particularly affected by large and uncontrollable wildfires.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of depression symptoms among residents of Alberta and Nova Scotia during the Canadian wildfires of 2023.

Methods

This study conducted a cross-sectional quantitative survey for data collection. In the period between 14th May and 23rd June 2023, an online survey was administered using REDCap. Through the Text4Hope program, participants subscribe to receive supportive SMS messages daily. After the first message, participants were invited to complete an online questionnaire, containing demographic information, wildfire-related information, and responses to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression assessment. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the data. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate regression analyses were employed.

Results

A total of 298 respondents completed the online survey out of 1802 who accessed it, resulting in a response rate of 16.54 %. Most of the respondents were females (85.2%, 253), below 40 years of age (28.3%, 84), employed (63.6%, 189), and in a relationship (56.4%, 167). A historical depression diagnosis (OR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.39–7.14) was a significant predictor of moderate to severe MDD in our study. While employment status did not significantly predict MDD, unemployed individuals were two times more likely to report moderate-to-severe symptoms of MDD than employed individuals (OR = 2.46; 95% CI: 1.06–5.67). Among the total sample population, the moderate to severe MDD prevalence was 50.4%, whereas it was 56.1% among those living in wildfire-affected areas.

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Conclusions

As a result of our study, the development of moderate to severe MDD symptoms during wildfire disasters was significantly associated with a history of depression diagnosis. Although employment status did not significantly predict MDD, unemployed individuals had a greater likelihood of experiencing moderate-to-severe symptoms than employed individuals. Further research is necessary to ascertain reliable predictors of mental health issues among those who have experienced disasters, as well as to offer appropriate interventions and treatment options to the communities and individuals who are most vulnerable.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Analysis of the demand for mental health consultation and liaison programmes: a comprehensive view.
Authors: Garcia Lazaro F. , Gotor Sanchez-Luengo F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The mental health consultation and liaison programme plays a crucial role in comprehensive medical care by addressing psychiatric co-morbidities in hospitalised patients.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to analyse demand and assess referral patterns to the mental health consultation and liaison programme in order to identify areas for improvement and optimise the provision of care.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted by analysing records of referrals to the mental health consultation and liaison programme over a one-year period. Demographic data, origin of demand, type of request, episodic diagnosis, psychiatric diagnoses, follow-up and discharge referral were collected.

Results

A total of 1180 referrals to the mental health consultation and liaison programme were reviewed. Most of the episodic diagnoses were related to anxious-depressive symptomatology, acute stress reaction and acute confusional syndrome. The majority of patients followed up did not require further referral to mental health facilities.

Conclusions

Analysis of the demand for the mental health consultation and liaison programme helps us to optimise care on psychiatric co-morbidities. These results support the importance of integrated care that addresses both medical and psychiatric aspects of inpatient health. Strategies to improve collaboration between different services should be implemented to ensure optimal care and provide a holistic approach.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Enhancing Postpartum Mental Health: Evaluation of the Effect of Remote Peer Support Intervention
Authors: Němcová H. , Hrdličková K. , Kuklová M. , Horáková A. , Nosková E. , Švancer P. , Byatt N. , Šebela A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The postpartum period poses a risk of both onset and relapse of mental health disorders in mothers, which can impact maternal-child relationships and development of children. Timely intervention is crucial, especially considering that majority of at-risk women do not seek professional help.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Mom Supports Mom, a remote peer support intervention, in improving the mental health of postpartum women.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial with 488 Czech postpartum women with depressive symptoms (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, EPDS score ≥ 10 shortly after giving birth) assessed the impact of Mom Supports Mom on depressive and anxiety symptoms (EPDS and Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale, PASS) and health-related quality of life (Assessment of Quality of Life, AQoL-8D) at 6 weeks postpartum. The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview 5 (MINI) was used to assess psychiatric diagnoses.

Results

The intervention significantly reduced depressive (Cohen’s d = 0.30; p = 0.003) and anxiety symptoms (Cohen’s d = 0.29; p = 0.003) and improved health-related quality of life (Cohen’s d = 0.27; p = 0.008) at 6 weeks postpartum. No significant difference was observed in psychiatric diagnoses between the intervention and the control group.

Conclusions

Mom Supports Mom intervention reduces postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms and enhances health-related quality of life. These findings support the integration of peer support into perinatal mental health care, addressing barriers that women face in seeking help.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Immunological predictors of rhythmic transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) efficiency in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia
Authors: Zozulya S. A. , Pomytkin A. N. , Tikhonov D. V. , Kaleda V. G. , Klyushnik T. P.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Model and clinical studies demonstrate the efficiency of rhythmic transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in diseases associated with neuroinflammation. The therapeutic potential of rTMS is related to modulation of neuroplasticity in the CNS, activation of neurogenesis and reduction of neuroinflammatory processes. Presumably, one of the factors that determines the efficiency of rTMS can be the features of the immune status of patients.

Objectives

To reveal the features of the spectrum of inflammatory markers in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia with different efficiency of rTMS.

Methods

31 male patients aged 16 to 47 years (mean age 29.9 ± 8.4 years) with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who developed a first psychotic episode in adolescence (19-25 years) were examined. The course of rTMS was conducted for 3 weeks (15 sessions). Depending on the dynamics of clinical and psychometric parameters after the course of rTMS, the patients were divided into three groups: group 1 - with worsening of clinical condition (n=8); group 2 - without therapeutic effect (n=12); group 3 - with good therapeutic response (n=11). Before rTMS, leukocyte elastase (LE) and α1-proteinase inhibitor (α1-PI) activity, and the levels of autoantibodies to S-100B protein and myelin basic protein (MBP) in the plasma of patients were determined. The parameters of 18 healthy male donors without clinical signs of psychiatric and somatic pathology were used as controls.

Results

All groups of patients were characterised by moderate and high levels of immune system activation, determined by a complex of inflammatory and autoimmune markers. At the same time, the high level of immune system activation in patients with low MTR efficiency was associated with low LE activity in plasma (within the reference range or below the lower limit - 200.6 (168.5- 220.3) nmol/min·mL), which was not consistent with the overall level of inflammation. This group of patients also showed high levels of antibodies to MBP compared to control values (p<0.05). The low LE activity can be explained by the transmigration of neutrophils from the blood to the brain due to a critical increase in the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, which is largely controlled by LE.

Conclusions

The study confirmed the participation of immune mechanisms in the formation of therapeutic resistance in schizophrenia and revealed the characteristics of the spectrum of immune markers in patients with low efficiency of rTMS.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared