bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenomenological experience personality profile: A test to identify the affective dimensions of psychopathology in the context of precision psychotherapy
Authors: Sperandeo R. , Cioffi V. , Mosca L. , Muzii B. , Maldonato N.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Artificial intelligence algorithms are increasingly used to highlight refined qualifiers of pathologies and to build treatment protocols based on them. These possibilities open up new perspectives for personalized interventions in psychotherapy. The affective neurosciences that link psychopathological phenomena to the hypersensitization of emotional systems are an excellent field of application of deep learning algorithms

Objectives

In this contribution we present the standardization of a psychodiagnostic test that can be analyzed with a deep learning algorithm for the development of personalized treatments for depressive disorders in a perspective of precision psychotherapy

Methods

Previously we have constructed a psychodiagnostic test that correlates the psychopathological characteristics to the emotional systems described in affective neuroscience. The construction of this test was carried out with the use of a neural network that discriminated 161 items from a pull of 300 psychopathological and character descriptions. In the present work, the 161 selected items were compared, in a sample of 600 subjects, with the measurement of sadness described in the Panksepp model. Comparation was performed with linear and non-linear statistical analysis methods.

Results

The items emerging from the statistical analyzes as strongly indicative of a hypersensitivity of the sadness system outline a psychopathological profile for which it is possible to adapt specific psychotherapeutic treatment protocols.

Conclusions

In future prospect, neurobiological and psychophysiological variables such as heart rate variability, skin conductance and activity of the areas of the cortex, measured with a scanner of the near infrared photons, will be correlated to these descriptors of psychopathology.
Disordered eating and BMI predict negative body image
Authors: Fyodorova E. , Arina G. , Nikolaeva V.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

It is known that negative body image can cause significant emotional distress for an individual and thus lead to lower subjective well-being. Previous research has shown that both disordered eating and body mass are connected to negative body image.

Objectives

To examine how disordered eating and BMI can predict different aspects of body image.

Methods

A sample of 180 healthy respondents (152 Female, 28 Male, mean age 22,62±7,35) were recruited in Moscow. Disordered eating was measured by Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26; Garner D. et al., 1982), body image was measured by Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ; Cash T. F., 1990). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated on the basis of self-reported data (height and weight). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed in IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0.

Results

Regression model with both predictors determined self-classified weight (SCW; R2=0,569, p<0,0001), overweight preoccupation (OWP; R2=0,497, p<0,0001), body areas satisfaction (BASS; R2=0,259, p<0,0001), and appearance evaluation (R2 = 0,229, p<0,0001), but only disordered eating symptoms predicted appearance (R2 = 0,193, p<0,0001) and health (R2 = 0,036, p<0,05) orientation, and none of the predictors affected fitness or health evaluation and fitness orientation.

Conclusions

Symptoms of disordered eating and body mass index in normal population can predict self-evaluation of one`s appearance as less attractive, body size as bigger and weight as heavier. Only symptoms of disordered eating predicted higher extent of investment in one’s appearance and health. And neither IBM, nor disordered eating predicted self-evaluation of one`s health and fitness or the extent of investment in fitness.
The relationship between self-disorders (SDS) and depressive/anxious symptoms in a clinical sample of adolescents
Authors: Monducci E. , Colafrancesco G. , Battaglia C. , Masini E. , De Vita G. , Ferrara M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Self-disorders (SDs) have been described as a core feature of schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Previous studies conducted on heterogeneous clinical adult and adolescents samples demonstrated that SDs aggregate selectively in the schizophrenia spectrum disorders compared to other disorders.

Objectives

To examine the specificity of SDs for schizophrenia spectrum disorders in adolescent inpatient sample.

Methods

Fifty-five adolescent inpatients admitted to the Child Psychiatry Unit at the Sapienza University in Rome were assessed for psychopathology using Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (K-SADS-PL), Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS/SOPS),Examination of Anomalous Self-Experiences (EASE), Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC), Calgary depression scale for schizophrenia (CDSS)

Results

Patients, aged 14-18 years, were divided in four diagnostic groups: schizophrenia spectrum disorders (5 pts.), mood disorders (19 pts.), anxiety disorders (27 pts.) and other disorders (4 pts.). Frequency of self-disorders was different among the 4 groups. Including patients schizotypal personality disorder in the schizophrenia-spectrum disorder group, the difference is still significant. Mann-Whitney U test shows no differences between EOP and UHR patients in SD. Furthermore, correlations between EASE total score and Calgary and MASC total scores were significant.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the specificity of SDs for schizophrenia spectrum disorders and also the belonging of schizotypal personality disorder to schizophrenia-spectrum.
Validation of the general self-efficacy scale in french students for the prevention of student health
Authors: Saleh D. , Romo L. , Sweerts S. Julien
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The perceived self-efficacy, framed by Bandura, is one of the most important concepts within Cognitive Social (Villegas Barahona et al., 2018). General self-efficacy is defined, as the global confidence a person has in order to perform tasks successfully (Stanley & Murphy, 1997). The perception of stress may be more for people with lower level of self-efficacy (Shilpa & Prasad, 2017).

Objectives

Students often suffer from stress (Saleh et al., 2019) and student health intervention and prevention programs must therefore act on this variable. The French version the General Self-Efficacy Scale could be an element for the validation of these programs.

Methods

955 French students aged 17 to 67 (M = 22.22; SD = 5.1) participated to the study. We performed an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to determine the most appropriate factor structure then a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA).

Results

Kaiser’s criterion pointed towards a one-factor model while Cattel’s criterion pointed towards a two-factor solution. Both models have been tested and the two-factor model seemed to be better. Indices showed an excellent fit between the model and the data (CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.96, SRMR = 0.035).

Conclusions

We have tested two models and one of them, the two-factor model, presented better psychometric qualities. However, the one-factor result is also satisfactory and it will be discussed in the communication.
Work engagement and workers’ health, is there any connection in the social work in ukraine?
Authors: Dorokhina A. , Chaban O. , Karagodina O.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

This study is a part of the bigger research project on the burnout syndrome risk and prevention factors [1,2,4].

Objectives

At the current phase we aimed to discover: 1- trends observed in sociodemographic profiles of Ukrainian social workers(SW) who respond to the online survey; 2- if there is any correlation between the SW work engagement(WE) and general health(H).

Methods

The survey is designed out of two questionnaires - Gallup Q12 Employee Engagement survey(Q12) and the 15-item Patient Health Questionnaire(PHQ-15). Questions on the socio-demographic status are included according to the study purpose [3,4]. SW ‘from the field’ in Ukraine included in the study group(SG). Other professionals (doctors, lawyers, etc.) formed the comparison group(CG). Descriptive statistics applied for the data analyses.

Results

Our sample has the next socio-demographic characteristics: age 20-57 (average 33.2) years old, male/female ratio is 0.36; single at the moment of the study are 66.7%. The SG: women-87.5%, married-62.5%, social work experience -from 1 to 15years. In 28.6% of the CG respondents the Q12 revealed low(less than 50%) WE while in the SW no one showed low WE. PHQ-15: in the SG -62.5% mild and 12.5% -severe somatic problems; in the CG -57.1% mild and 28.6% -severe somatic symptoms. There were no statistically significant differences between 2 groups with regard to WE and H (p<0.05). Relations between variables are non-linear; therefore,Spearman’s coefficient (ρ) applied.

Conclusions

The weak association between the work engagement and health condition (ρ=0.3;p<0.05) is found. There are several limitations due to the sample specificity (online users in Ukraine).This study is ongoing.
Mindfulness and self-compassion based intervention program to prevent burnout in medical and dentistry students
Authors: Carvalho F. , Cabaços C. , Carneiro M. , Araujo A. , Azevedo J. , Marques M. , Manão A. , Macedo A. , Pereira A.T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Burnout occurs in every stage of a medical graduation and career. In the first years of graduation, is affects 35-45% of medical and dentistry students. This has severe consequences, such as: higher levels of suicidal ideation, substance abuse, medical errors and medical neglect; lower levels of empathy and self-compassion - essential to the quality of healthcare. Students with certain personality traits (e.g., neuroticism and, particularly, perfectionism) are more vulnerable to emotional dysregulation when facing stressors of daily life. Our recent studies proved that mindfulness and self-compassion can attenuate the effect of perfectionism on psychological distress.

Objectives

To present the rational, materials, methodology and preliminary results of our project COMBURNOUT, aimed to develop, implement and assess the efficacy of a mindfulness and self-compassion-based intervention to prevent burnout in medical and dentistry students.

Methods

Students with high levels of burnout, psychological distress and perfectionism will be randomly assigned to intervention (8 weekly sessions) or control groups. The sessions will be composed by psychoeducation about burnout, mindfulness and self-compassion practices, within and between sessions. The follow up will include three assessment moments until a year after the intervention.

Results

We expect that the experimental group will present significantly lower levels of burnout, psychological distress and perfectionism, and higher levels of emotional regulation skills.

Conclusions

The facilitators training and the manualization are guaranties of standardization and sustainability. If the positive impact of COMBURNOUT is verified, we intend to provide the program to medical/dentistry students from all over the country.
Coping with sport trauma and well-being in athletes
Authors: Yavorovskaya A. , Leonov S. , Rasskazova E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Sport trauma is a stressful situation demanding not only physical but also psychological rehabilitation (Clement et al, 2015, Ardern et al, 2012) including prevention of mental health symptoms. Revealing coping strategies that are related not only to rehabilitation effectiveness but also to well-being of athletes is important for rehabilitation programs (Crowther et al, 2017, Hamson-Utley, Vazquez, 2008, Johnston, Carroll, 1998).

Objectives

The aim was to reveal coping strategies that are related to better well-being in athletes after trauma after adjusting for trauma perception.

Methods

61 athletes (15-25 years old, 31 males) rehabilitating after sport trauma filled COPE with specific instruction about trauma (Carver et al., 1989), Illness Perception Questionnaire (Moss-Morris et al., 2002) modified for trauma situation, Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener et al., 1985), Scale of Positive and Negative Experience (Diener et al., 2009).

Results

After adjusting for subjective trauma representation humor related to trauma predicted better satisfaction with life (β=.43, R2=43.7%). Active coping with trauma was related to more positive emotions (β=.31, R2=9.8%) while emotion venting, substance use and lower instrumental support are related to negative emotions (β=.39, β=.24, β=-.29, respectively, R2=30.5%), although these effects eliminate after adjusting for trauma representation.

Conclusions

Humor, active coping and instrumental support as well as control of emotion venting and substance use could be helpful strategies of promotion of better well-being in athletes after sport trauma. Research is supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 19-78-10134.

Conflict of interest

Research is supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 19-78-10134.
The watersports inclusion games - what are the benefits for volunteers?
Authors: O’Flynn A. , Murphy J. , Barrett E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The Watersports Inclusion Games is an annual event organised by Irish Sailing and partners that provides an opportunity for individuals of all abilities across the physical, sensory, intellectual and learning spectrums and those experiencing barriers accessing mainstream sport to partake in a range of watersports. 79 volunteers from the 2019 cohort responded to a pilot survey to assess the benefits for volunteers at the event.

Objectives

This project aims to assess this data in the context of current knowledge about the benefits for volunteers in inclusive sport.

Methods

Literature review used the PEO keyword framework in medical and psychological databases, as well as grey literature. Data was collected using SurveyMonkey, quantitative data was analysed using Survey Monkey and SPSS, and qualitative themes were analysed using SurveyMonkey and Excel.

Results

Only one article exploring the benefits for volunteers in inclusive watersports was identified during literature review. This pilot survey analysis is the first on this topic in Ireland, and the largest sample of volunteers in inclusive watersport that we are aware of internationally. Thematic analysis finds that volunteers at this event are primarily motivated by altruistic motives, while the benefits they perceive include both personal enjoyment and growth, and seeing the enjoyment of other participants.

Conclusions

This project demonstrates that inclusive watersports can have many benefits for volunteers. The findings of this study can contribute to the evidence base on the benefits of inclusive sport for all those involved, while also identifying an opportunity for further study on volunteerism in inclusive sport, particularly adaptive watersports.

Conflict of interest

Ms O’Flynn reports a scholarship from the Health Research Board for this project, Dr Barrett has nothing to disclose, Ms Murphy reports to be the Inclusion Games Office, and thus responsible for the organisation of the Watersports Inclusion Games.
Whole-patient conversations: Implementation of a practical positive psychiatry intervention for medical trainees
Authors: Lam J. , Feingold-Link M. , Noguchi J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Positive psychiatry is the science and practice of psychiatry seeking to promote overall well-being and understand the “positive” aspects of the patient’s life, such as resilience, social connections, and meaning and values in life. While positive psychiatry research has recently blossomed, the field lacks practical ways to integrate these overarching principles into clinical practice. Life review interventions are commonly used in palliative care, spiritual care, and geriatrics, and involve a healthcare team member interviewing a patient about their life.

Objectives

Our objective is to describe the implementation of a positive psychiatry-informed life story review initiative into medical education, with the goal of creating a structure for medical trainees to see the larger context of patients’ health, understand how past experiences influence current values, and improve patients’ overall well-being.

Methods

First- and third-year students at Alpert Medical School of Brown University are required to participate in at least one strengths-based life review with a patient in the community or inpatient setting, transcribe the story, and integrate the story into the electronic health record.

Results

Preliminary results demonstrate high acceptability and perceived development of patient-centered competencies, such as understanding patients as more complete human beings. While this is a low cost and sustainable intervention, barriers include buy-in from medical educators, hospital administrators, and trainees.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is one of the first positive psychiatry-informed interventions to be implemented into the required medical curricula. Life story reviews may allow providers to understand the “positive” aspects of patients’ lives and understand their patients better as people.
Impact of adult attachment styles on health behaviors among youngsters
Authors: Masood S. , Ali D.S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Attachment styles play important role in managing health behavior. It has been observed in researches that attachment style have relationship with health behavior (Schlack, 2003). If attachment styles are left the way they form habitually it can be harmful, in a study with diabetic patients, people with avoidant attachment style were expected to die within 5 years of disease diagnosis (Ciechanowski et al., 2010).

Objectives

To assess effect of adult attachment styles on health behavior?

Methods

Sample comprised of 300 university students from different private and government universities of Karachi with age range 18 – 35 years. Assessment tools used are relationship questionnaire and wellness behavior inventory scale. Relationship questionnaire is used to identify the dimension of attachment style (Bartholomew & Horowitz, 1991). Wellness behavior inventory was used to identify consistency of healthy behavior activities done on regularly basis (Sirois, 2001). Statistical tests used for descriptive analysis were frequency and percentage and for inferential statistics regression analysis test was used.

Results

According to the attachment styles A, B, C and D most of the study participants fell in healthy weight range, a few were in obese range which is considered unhealthy. Result of regression analysis estimated there is no effect of attachment style on health behavior as p-value was greater than 0.05.

Conclusions

Attachment style is not a good predictor of health behavior solely. As per a few researches in order to study impact of attachment styles other mediating variables that can have effect on health behavior should also be observed such as self-esteem.
Negative symptoms assessment in early intervention settings: Implications for early identification and treatment
Authors: Glenthøj L.B. , Nielsen M. , Nordentoft M.
Published: February 2022

Negative symptoms are a core feature of schizophrenia spectrum disorders associated with poor outcomes such as low remission rates and impairments in daily functioning and quality of life in early psychosis. The assessment of negative symptoms in early psychotic disorders is predominantly conducted by use of first-generation scales such as the PANSS and the SANS, along with the SIPS and CAARMS for the psychosis clinical high-risk (CHR) state. Following the progressed conceptualization of negative symptoms, it has, however, been recognized that these scales suffer important methodological limitations. This warrants a use of second-generation scales such as the Brief Negative Symptom Scale (BNSS) and the Clinical Assessment Interview for Negative Symptoms (CAINS) in early intervention settings in order to achieve a more accurate assessment of the negative symptom complex. Advancing the assessment of negative symptoms in early psychosis may also guide more targeted intervention approaches aimed at improving functional outcome. Albeit recognizing that negative symptoms constitute an important barrier to a good functional outcome in psychotic disorders, few studies have directly aimed at alleviating negative symptoms in early psychosis. Meta-analytical evidence does, however, exist on the efficacy of the combined treatment modalities incorporated in Early Intervention Services (e.g. intensive and assertive case management, family involvement etc.) in reducing negative symptoms in first-episode psychosis. Evidence on the effect of interventions for improving negative symptoms in the CHR state is lacking. Developing targeted, and possibly more individualized negative symptoms treatment approaches, constitute an essential future research area.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Improving psychological well-being and neurocognitive efficiency in aging: Efficacy of a neurofeedback-guided mindfulness protocol
Authors: Crivelli D. , Balconi M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Mounting evidence shows that mental training activities aimed at increasing self-awareness and self-regulation can better psychophysical wellbeing, as well as on neurocognitive efficiency. Nevertheless, the commitment required by traditional approaches to such activities often discourages their implementation as prevention tools with elderly users. Integrating traditional interventions and new technologies might help to achieve this goal.

Objectives

The study aims at evaluating the effects on cognitive control and self-regulation of a mindfulness protocol supported by a wearable neurofeedback device, comparing young-adults and elderly people.

Methods

Participants completed a three-week experimental (EXP) or control (CONT) training protocol, with daily sessions of practice. The EXP protocol was based on breathing awareness practices executed with the support of the wearable neurofeedback device. In the CONT protocol, participants completed breathing practices while listening to ambient sounds with no feedback. Stress, anxiety and mood levels, cognitive skills, and physiological markers (EEG and autonomic indices) of neurocognitive efficiency and stress were assessed pre-/post-training.

Results

Both young and elderly participants completing the experimental protocol showed a post-training improvement in executive control, a reduction in perceived stress levels, and an improvement of psychophysiological markers of stress regulation. In addition, young participants presented an improvement of EEG markers of attention regulation, while elderly participants showed an improvement of EEG markers of affective regulation and a reduction of subclinical depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Findings highlights the potential of integrating traditional interventions and new technologies in order to promote subjective well-being and neurocognitive enhancement, especially with elderly users.
Evaluation of the impact of a socio-educational intervention in quality of life and mental health of institutionalized elderly
Authors: Amaral A.P. , Loureiro A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

With the huge increase of life expectancy in developed countries, new needs for long-term care arise in order to guarantee an active ageing for an increasing older adult population. One way to promote emotional well-being and quality of life in elderly is through socio-educational interventions.

Objectives

To test the effects of a socio-educational intervention in quality of life and mental health of institutionalized elderly.

Methods

This study employed a pretest-posttest design. Measures: Portuguese version of Mental Health Inventory (Ribeiro, 2001) and WHOQOL-OLD (Vilar, Sousa & Simões, 2009). Qualitative assessment was made using a logbook. Participants: 15 institutionalized elderly, 60% females, with mean age of 82.5 years (sd=8.5). The intervention ran for 2 months, with 12 group sessions, 60 minutes each, held twice a week. A nonparametric paired samples tests was conducted to evaluate the impact of the intervention.

Results

After the intervention, results showed a significant increase of total value of mental health (p=.021). Concerning dimensions: significant increase of positive psychological well-being (p=.014), emotional ties (p=.050), positive affect (p=.004), behavioural emotional control (p=.018), and a significant decrease of depression (p=.043). Concerning quality of live, the results showed a significant increase of the mean values of the facets: social participation and intimacy (p=.005; p=.027, respectively).

Conclusions

Overall, the intervention implemented with institutionalized elderly had good results, with significant increase of positive psychological well-being and decrease of depression. Although there was no control group, the results suggest that the socio-educational intervention implemented can contribute to promote mental health in elderly.
Native language and its connection with mental well-being, emotional state and life satisfaction in a multilingual society
Authors: Zinchenko Y. , Shaigerova L. , Dolgikh A. , Almazova O. , Shilko R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Ethnolinguistic diversity provides the opportunity to study the relation between the native language, the emotional state, and the well-being of a person. Representatives of different linguistic groups may have psychological advantages in specific socio-cultural situations.

Objectives

We investigated the interrelation between mental well-being, emotional state, life satisfaction, and belonging to different ethnolinguistic categories in the Russian society.

Methods

The measuring instruments included the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (Tennant et al., 2007), the Scale ofPositive and Negative Experience (SPANE) (Diener et al., 2009), the questionary on life satisfaction. The research project included 894 respondents aged from 14 to 80 (M=24.0; SD=11.7), residents of eight regions, where there are one or several official languages along with Russian.

Results

The results indicate that mental well-being (F = 1.167; p = 0.312) is independent of the respondents’ native language, while the ratio of positive and negative affect is significantly higher (F = 3.164; p = 0.008) among people who indicated the regional language as the native one, compared to those who have two native languages - Russian and regional (MD = -1.529; p = 0.039). Moreover, the general life satisfaction is higher (F = 7.427; p = 0.001) among native speakers of the regional language as compared to those who indicate both Russian and regional languages as their native languages (MD = 0.638; p <0.001).

Conclusions

Differences in the emotional state and life satisfaction along with the absence of differences in mental well-being were revealed in respondents of different ethnolinguistic categories. The reported study was funded by RFBR, project number 17-29-09167.
Framing the implementation process of a social innovation project for people with severe mental disorders in chile
Authors: Solis-Soto M. , Reginatto G. , Alvarado R. , Arratia T. , Burrone M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

There are important challenges for the effective inclusion in society of people with severe mental disorders (SMD). The POTENCIAT intervention supports the formation of work cooperatives for the socio-labour inclusion of people with SMD working together with women in vulnerable situations and older adults.

Objectives

To analyse the implementation process of the first phase of POTENCIAT

Methods

According to Nilsen, six components were analysed: implementation object, implementation activities, implementation actors, users, inner context and outer context. A qualitative study was performed during the first phase of the project (12-months). Participant observation and in-depth interviews with key actors, users and fieldwork team were conducted, as well as bibliographic analysis of field notes, meeting minutes and audios/videos of socialization activities. Ethical issues were considered.

Results

The implementation object was positively valued as a response to perceived needs such as users involvement in a participatory approach. Shared decision-making process was emphasized. Implementation activities were accompanied by local teams and were adapted to participants needs and context characteristics (e.g. social distancing). Most users showed high expectations related to the solidarity economic model as well as physical and economic autonomy, which work as a key factor for commitment and retention in the project. A good working environment was recognized and a space for personal fulfillment. Some barriers were recognized, including cultural stigma, auto-stigma, and recruitment in pandemic context.

Conclusions

Early and proper addressing of factors that may positively and negatively affect the implementation process is mandatory to achieve the effective inclusion of people with SMD.
Contributions to the study of the relationship between blood pressure and mental health
Authors: Esgalhado G. , Louro A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Blood pressure (BP) refers to the pressure that the blood exerts on the walls of blood vessels. There is a number of evidences that show that depression, anxiety, and also stress have a high incidence in people suffering from hypertension.

Objectives

To correlate blood pressure levels with psychopathological symptomatology levels and to compare differences between genders, age and education levels.

Methods

This was a descriptive, inferential and correlational study encompassing 1407 participants, aged from 18 – 89 years of age (average age = 36 years). Measures included biomedical data - systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, arrhythmias and heartbeat, as well as the demographic variables - sex, age and education of the participants; mental health (psychopathological symptomatology) was measured using the Portuguese version of the BSI.

Results

In the present study there were no statistically significant relationships between Systolic Blood Pressure, Diastolic Blood Pressure and General Symptom Index, as well as for each BSI dimension. Nevertheless, statistically significant differences were found between Diastolic Blood Pressure and obsessions-compulsions, interpersonal sensibility and hostility. Also, there are statistically significant differences for BP according to gender and education.

Conclusions

This study brings important contributions to the study of the associations between blood pressure and mental health, with import implications for intervention and prevention.
Mental health essentials for future healthcare professionals. A public health capacity building initiative
Authors: Arrasa M. Borrell , Eissa M. , Omrani O. El
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Mental disorders in Europe represent the leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of overall disease burden, following cardiovascular disease and cancers. As future healthcare professionals, with an imminent role in tackling this global health issue, we acknowledge that Mental Health is not adequately included in the medical curriculum. To address this gap, this workshop was created to equip medical students with the knowledge and skills that will empower them to lead a pioneering role in advocating for mental health for their patients, peers, and communities.

Objectives

By the end of the workshop, all participants should have: - Increased their knowledge in the field of Mental Health disorders - Increased their skills in the field of Mental Health (preventive practices, intervention strategies towards others, etc.) - Explored the relations between stigma, vulnerability, and Mental Health - Strengthened the international perspective and global understanding concerning mental health issues

Methods

This workshop utilized principles of non-formal education and was planned according to the 4MAT system to meet all four learning styles through theory blocks, space for reflection, practical application of knowledge, and future opportunities for application of content. This was achieved through various methodologies including presentations, self-discovery activities and exercises, roundtable debates, simulations, and role-playing.

Results

obtained

Conclusions

This workshop highlighted the importance of building the capacity of medical students to tackle the burden of Mental Health globally and within the region, and how similar student-led initiatives can further empower them to be change agents and impactful advocates for better Mental Health in their own communities.
An online forum to support consultant psychiatrists in their first five years of practice, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Maclaren T. , Ahmed N. , Edwards S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In the United Kingdom, the move from trainee to consultant psychiatrist can be both exciting and daunting. Trainee psychiatrists have access to support and weekly supervision that is not available to consultants. Having an organised meeting for new consultants could help bridge this gap with peer-led support.

Objectives

Improving support and guidance to new consultants Networking with peers Promoting wellbeing, good clinical practice and career development

Methods

We identified a group of 85 consultants in their first five years of practice. Meetings were held online using videoconference. Senior leaders presented at each meeting, with a group discussion at the end. We surveyed attendees using an online platform.

Results

We had excellent attendance rates from the group, with 30 to 45 consultants attending each webinar. Over 60% of attendees had been a consultant for less than a year. For 90%, this was their first experience of a new consultant forum. Attendees gave excellent feedback (Table). Being able to meet consultants from different specialties, hearing career stories from senior leaders and how they have managed the COVID-19 pandemic were cited as benefits.Table: Feedback scores (0 = not useful to 100 = very useful)StatementScoreThe forum helped me feel supported75Topics covered are relevant to me79I feel more connected with colleagues71

Conclusions

The forum was popular and the feedback was excellent. Using an online format worked well and made it easier to organise and plan sessions. There is potential to implement similar fora for other senior psychiatrists across Europe.
Systemic endotoxinemia as a probable factor in reducing the treatment effectiveness of endogenous psychosis
Authors: Zozulya S. , Otman I. , Oleichik I. , Anikhovskaya I. , Yakovlev M. , Klyushnik T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Inflammation is an important factor in the pathogenesis of endogenous psychosis. An inducer of inflammatory reactions can be endotoxin aggression of intestinal origin.

Objectives

To determine the level of inflammation markers and indicators of systemic endotoxinemia in blood of patients with endogenous psychosis in relation to assessment of the treatment effectiveness.

Methods

25 patients with endogenous psychosis (F20, F25) were examined before and after treatment. The control group consisted of 25 healthy people. The activity of inflammatory markers - leukocyte elastase, α1-antitrypsin, antibodies to S-100B, and indicators of systemic endotoxinemia – endotoxin concentration and antiendotoxin immunity activity were measured in blood serum. The treatment effectiveness was assessed by the dynamics of inflammatory markers.

Results

Based on the results of determining the studied parameters before treatment, all patients were divided into two groups. In the 1st group (6 patients, 24%), an increase of inflammatory markers activity and high concentration of endotoxin in the blood serum were revealed (p<0,001, p<0,05, respectively). In the 2nd group (19 patients, 76%), only activation of inflammatory reactions (p<0,001) was detected. After therapy in the 1st group of patients, there was no positive dynamics of all studied markers, which indicated an active course of the pathological process. In the 2nd group, the normalization of inflammatory markers was shown (p<0,05), which corresponded to the formation of remission.

Conclusions

The results indicate that endotoxic aggression contributes to reduction of the effectiveness of endogenous psychosis therapy and can be considered as an additional therapeutic target.
A closer look to apathy
Authors: Silva D. , Martins R. , Polido F. , Cruz M.D.C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Apathy is a neuropsychiatry syndrome, conceptualised as a loss of motivation free of altered consciousness, cognitive impairment or emotional distress, associated with a wide range of brain disorders such as Dementia, Major depression and schizophrenia. Even though under-recognized and under-diagnosed, apathy hardly appears uncommon. Its reported frequency in various neurologic and psychiatric conditions varies widely, from less than 10 to over 80%, reflecting differences in population characteristics and assessment procedures.

Objectives

The aim of this article is to review the concept of Apathy and clarify its nosology, pathopshysiology and treatment.

Methods

An online bibliographic search was carried out on PubMed and Medline using “Apathy” as a term.

Results

The literature reviewed shows that apathy is a multi-dimensional clinical construct with a current definition and validated diagnostic criteria. Analysis reveals that apathy is strongly associated with disruption particularly of anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), ventral striatum (VS) and nucleus accumbens (N acc). Remarkably, these changes are consistent across clinical disorders and imaging modalities, playing a crucial role in normal motivated behaviour.

Conclusions

The neuromodulator dopamine is heavily implicated in ACC and VS. Therapeutically, numerous small studies suggest that psychostimulants, dopaminergics, and cholinesterase inhibitors may benefit those manifesting this syndrome. However, no adequately powered, randomized controlled trials have reported success and no medication have ever been approved for this disorder Further research is needed to help understand the functional neuroanatomy, neuromodulators involved and possible treatment options of this clinical construct.
Impact of day hospital care on adherence to psychiatric follow-up appointments and medications in patients with delusional disorder
Authors: González-Rodríguez A. , Sanz N. , Guàrdia A. , Pedrero A. Alvarez , Pérez D. Garcia , Fucho G.F. , Delgado L. , Uribe I. Parra , Monreal J.A. , Vidal D. Palao , Labad J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Day care programs have been extensively used to treat people with acute psychiatric disorders. Day hospitals (DH) can act as an alternative to admission in patients with acute symptoms, shorten the duration of admission, be useful for rehabilitation and maintenance care or enhance treatment in patients with poor adherence to outpatient care. Few research has been conducted in delusional disorder (DD).

Objectives

To investigate whether DH care increases adherence with psychiatric appointments in patients with DD. To describe functions of partial hospitalization in DD.

Methods

Comparative study including DD patients who attended a DH (Group 1:n=12) versus patients who did not receive DH care (Group 2;n=7). Patients attending DH were classified into 3 groups according to the program function at referral. Adherence with outpatient follow-up appointments (primary outcome) and pharmacy refill data (secondary outcome) were assessed after discharge over a 6-month period (DH) and compared with group 2. For statistical analyses, non-parametric tests were performed.

Results

Program function (DH): alternative to admission (n=4); shortening of admission (n=5) and enhancing outpatient treatment (n=3). Patients receiving DH care were more frequently referred from the inpatient unit or emergency department compared to those who did not attend DH (commonly referred from primary care services). No statistically significant differences were found between both groups in adherence to psychiatric appointments. Patients who attended DH showed higher compliance with antipsychotics (89.29% vs.72.62, p<0.05).

Conclusions

DH care may be a useful alternative to increase adherence with antipsychotics in DD patients with poor awareness of illness.

Conflict of interest

AGR has received honoraria, registration for congresses and/or travel costs from Janssen, Lundbeck-Otsuka and Angelini.
An insight on psychiatric insight
Authors: Rocha T. Coelho , Cunha J. , Torres S. , Lopes A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Insight is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon. Metacognition, awareness of illness or anosognosia are some of the terms used to designate this feature of the mental state exam.

Objectives

To attempt to explore the evolution of the concept of insight as a psychiatric symptom over the years and to bring up some up-to-date features on this theme.

Methods

Literature review, using the most relevant papers, with the keywords “psychiatric insight”, “awareness of illness”, “metacognition” and “phenomenology”.

Results

The term ‘insight’ has been described since 1896 when Kraepelin had noticed that patients with dementia praecox were unaware of their condition. Nowadays, it is recognized in several psychiatric disorders, with different meanings in each one. Overall, insight in psychiatry involves an attempt to see one’s thinking and behaviour ‘objectively’ and comparing it to some representation of mental health. Impaired insight has been linked to poor treatment compliance and outcomes, overall symptom severity, higher relapse, lower self-esteem, and impaired psychosocial functioning. White matter and connectivity problems may be related to poorer insight, as well as impaired frontal lobe functioning. In psychotic disorders, lack of insight is a primary symptom with poorer outcomes. Regarding affective disorders, the lower the mood the better the insight. Neuroimaging has been correlating insight with the inferior frontal gyrus, anterior insula, inferior parietal lobule, and ventromedial prefrontal cortex. In everyday practice, there are scales used to assess insight.

Conclusions

Inferences about patients’ insight are important to evaluate severity of illness, suicidal risk, compliance, and response to treatment.
Impaired age self-consciousness in latent schizophrenia
Authors: Suleimanov R. , Artemieva M. , Danilin I. , Lazukova A. , Sokolov V.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The topic of research was phenomenon of impaired age self-consciousness in non-psychotic latent schizophrenia patients defined.

Objectives

To explore features of impaired age self-identity and to determine syndromic affiliation of the syndrome in comparison with premorbid personality disorders traits.

Methods

The study sample comprised 141 patients with latent schizophrenia (pseudo neurotic (F21.3 - 64.5%, 91 patients), coenesthopathic (F20.8 - 25.5%, 36 patients) and pseudo psychopathic (F21.4, - 9.9%, 14 patients)) aged 16-31 (average 22.1 years old) in 2007-2019. A follow-up, experimental psychological and clinical study was conducted.

Results

The onset of impaired age self-identity was dominated by a radical drop of the subjective age in self-conscious mind of the patients accompanied by a tormented feeling of loss of self-dependence, role autonomy, helplessness, inability of decision making and to be answerable. Patients described this sudden condition as a loss of ‘maturity feeling’ and return to the juvenile perception of self. In a delusive and unclear manner, phrases such as ‘I feel inferior to others as if a helpless child among adults’, ‘I feel as if my childhood is back’ were uttered. Excessive worrying and enlivening of childhood memories were also included. This correlates to occurrence of humble and sometimes dependent/avoidant behavior, feeling of helplessness and fear with respect to caring for one self, rising subordination and suggestibility.

Conclusions

This phenomenon of regress to earlier ontogenetic level of personal development reported as impaired age self-consciousness can thus be regarded as an obligate form of depersonalization in patients with latent schizophrenia.
Angioedema with haloperidol - case report
Authors: Costa A. , Jesus S. , Alcafache J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Haloperidol is a high-potency first generation antipsychotic and one of the most frequently used antipsychotic medications. It is a potent central antagonist of type 2 dopamine receptors, with low alpha 1 adrenergic activity and has no antihistamine or anti-cholinergic activity. It is a widely used drug with proven efficacy. Angioedema is a very rare side effect, occurring in <1% of cases.

Objectives

Case report and reflection on its etiology

Methods

A Pubmed search was performed with the MeSH terms “haloperidol” and “Anaphylactic reactions”. Relevant articles obtained from the respective bibliographic references were also consulted.

Results

The following case describes the development of angioedema in a patient with an acute confusional syndrome on the second haloperidol IM administration for symptomatic control of agitation. Angioedema has been reported as an adverse effect of various antipsychotics such as clozapine, risperidone, ziprazidone and chlorpromazine, however, resulting from haloperidol administration is rare.

Conclusions

In long-term formulations sensitization testing is especially important but a single prior administration is not sufficient, a second controlled administration is essential to avoid this kind of fatal reactions.
Oxcarbazepine-induced hyponatremia: A case report
Authors: Pinto M. Barbosa , De Carvalho M. Viseu , Tavares F. Gomes , Reis J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Oxcarbazepine (OXC) is an antiepileptic drug widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BD), specially when there are side effects with other mood stabilizers. Nevertheless, it isn’t innocuous of adverse effects and its consequences can even endanger the patient’s life.

Objectives

Brief review of the literature on OXC-induced hyponatremia and exposure of a case report.

Methods

Review of the literature through research in the PubMed database, using the following keywords: “oxcarbazepine”, “hyponatremia” and “adverse effects”.

Results

Although most of the patients are asymptomatic, hyponatremia is one of the most important side effects of OXC. About 29.9% of the patients develop hyponatremia, but only 2.5-3% of psychiatric patients develop severe hyponatremia. The risk of hyponatremia is higher during the first three months of treatment. Severe and/or symptomatic hyponatremia has important clinical implications and may be associated with neurological damage, including seizures, brain stem herniation and death. A 44-year-old woman diagnosed with BD started OXC due to drug intoxications with other mood stabilizers. Six days after initiating treatment, she presented persistent vomiting and severe hyponatremia was detected in blood tests. OXC was suspended with symptomatic resolution.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals should be alert to symptoms that may arise in patients under OXC. Periodic evaluations of serum sodium levels should be carried out. Cases of severe and/or symptomatic hyponatremia should be rapidly identified and treated in order to reduce the risk of developing brain injury and death.