bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sociodemographic and clinical profile of immigrants hospitalized in psychiatric facilities in Tunisia
Authors: Tabib F. , Omri S. , Bouaziz R. , Feki R. , Gassara I. , Zouari L. , Ben Thabet J. , Charfi N. , Maalej M. , Smaoui N. , Bouali M. M. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionIn an increasingly interconnected world, migration has become a defining characteristic of the 21st century. While immigration offers new beginnings and prospects, it also presents unique challenges, particularly concerning mental health.The experience of migrating can exert pressure on mental health through factors such as acculturation stress, discrimination, and economic hardships. These challenges can, in turn, contribute to the development of mental health issues.ObjectivesTo study the socio-demographic and clinical profile of immigrants hospitalized in the “C” psychiatry department, Hedi Chaker Hospital, in Sfax, Tunisia.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective descriptive study of immigrants hospitalized in the psychiatry department “C”, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax Tunisia from 2011 to 2023. Socioeconomic data and clinical profiles of immigrants were collected from archived files.ResultsThe total number of immigrants hospitalized during these 12 years was 32, with an average age of 28.81 years ±7.8 years, all of them were males, as the psychiatric department “C” only hospitalizes men.
All were of African origin, of whom 21.9% (n=7) had Libyan nationality, 15.6% (n=5) had Somali nationality and 12.5% (n=4) had Sudanese nationality. Communication with them was possible in 87.5% of cases, primarily through the native Arabic language in 56.3% of instances. Illegal immigration was the most prevalent form, accounting for 75% of cases. During the immigration process, 18.8% of individuals reported experiencing violence.”The majority of hospitalized immigrants were single (71.9%), had a primary school education (37.5%), a low socio-economic level (81.3%), and no profession (59.4%). 21.9% of them had received social assistance, and 59.4% lived in a refugee camp. Psychoactive substance consumption was reported by 53.1% of our study population.Regarding the clinical profile of the population, 21.9% had a history of somatic conditions, 43.8% had a psychiatric history, including 9.4% who had attempted suicide, and 34.4% who had experienced traumatic events since arriving in Tunisia. The primary reason for hospitalization was behavioral disorders in 71.9% of cases and suicide attempts in 15.6%. The most prevalent diagnoses were schizophrenia (50%), and bipolar disorder (18.8%). Upon discharge, 15.6% encountered administrative issues.ConclusionsHospitalized immigrants exhibit diverse socio-demographic and clinical profiles. These findings underscore the significance of acquiring a deeper understanding of the mental health needs and existing barriers to healthcare within various immigrant communities. This is particularly crucial as immigration continues to be a central focus in Tunisia’s public policies and discussions.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Widespread cortical and subcortical gray matter loss and an increase of globus pallidus volume in treatment-resistant schizophrenia
Authors: Dudina A. , Tikhonov D. , Kaleda V. , Lebedeva I. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction

It is still being discussed whether treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) is a biological subtype which differs from non-treatment-resistant schizophrenia or is it a more severe condition that affects brain worse than non-treatment-resistant schizophrenia. However, there are few and heterogeneous studies and the etiology of TRS remains quite unclear.ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore cortical and subcortical morphometric characteristics in TRS patients and its associations with the clinical features. The pilot stage comprises the comparison to the mentally healthy subjects.Methods

21 right-handed male patients (mean age 28.99 ± 8.08 years) fulfilling TRS criteria and 21 matched healthy controls (mean age 29.35 ± 7.41 years) underwent T1-weighted structural MRI at 3T Philips scanner and clinical examination. Images were processed using FreeSurfer 7.1.1. Cortical thickness and area, volumes of subcortical structures and separately volumes of the amygdala nuclei and hippocampal subregions were compared between groups. The morphometry data, PANSS (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), CDSS (Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia) and daily chlorpromazine equivalent doses of antipsychotics were included in correlational analysis. Results were considered significant if they retained significance after correction for multiple comparisons.Results
Compared to healthy controls, TRS patients showed decreased gray matter thickness in frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital, cingulate and insular regions (Figure 1). The temporal lobe showed the most prominent thinning of the cortex. The volumes of the amygdala, hippocampus (Figure 2) and nucleus accumbens, a number of amygdala nuclei and hippocampal subregions bilaterally were also decreased in TRS patients. The volume of the right globus pallidus, on the contrary, was increased (Figure 2). No correlations between altered cortical thickness, PANSS (positive, negative, general psychopathology scales and total score), CDSS and chlorpromazine equivalent doses of antipsychotics were found.Image:Image 2:Conclusions
The widespread gray matter cortical and subcortical loss in TRS finds confirmation in the literature. The increased globus pallidus volume is an unexpected and intriguing result. Other studies demonstrated conflicting results on that point. Some studies reported possible therapy influence, others suggested possible associations with symptoms. We did not find any correlations with psychometric or therapy characteristics. It is possible that there are non-linear relationships or relationships that exist only at a certain stage of the disease. As for therapy, patients took individual medication, consisting of various antipsychotics and drugs from other pharmacological groups, and such heterogeneity could affect the results of the study. Further research is going to be carried out.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Neurofeedback treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in adults
Authors: Fernández B. , Barros J. , Machado E. , Maldonado E. , Moreira A. R. , Gomes H. J. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopment disorders in the world. Clinical guidelines for ADHD recommend multimodal treatment approaches, with current evidence suggesting that medication, including methylphenidate and various amphetamine formulations, in conjunction with psychosocial treatment are most effective in the short-term and long term. Over the last decade, an increasing number of studies investigating non-pharmacological treatments have been published, such as cognitive therapy, Neurofeedback (NF), Transcranial direct current stimulation with the aim of treating ADHD patients.ObjectivesWe comprehensively reviewed literature searching for studies on the effectiveness and specificity of NF for the treatment of ADHD. The aim of this review is to understand if there is scientific evidence in using of electroencephalogram (EEG)-Neurofeedback for treating patients with ADHD.Methods

We did a non systemathic review using pubmed and google schoolar databases in order to analyze the influence and effects of therapy in patients diagnosed with ADHD and under treatment based on EEG Neurofeedback. We analyzed 18 systhematic reviews and metha-analysis and 2 case control studies.Results
Accourding to the systhematic reviews results showed positive and significant effects in the visual memory, attention and visual recognition (spatial working memory). EEG also showed improvement in upper alpha activity in a resting state (open-eyed) measured from the occipital area, which similarly indicated improvement in the cognitive domain (attention). Compared to non-active control treatments, NF appears to have more durable treatment effects, for at least 6 months following treatment.Conclusions

In conclusion, it is possible to affirm that a neuromodulating effect of the therapy positively influences cognitive processes, mood, and anxiety levels in patients with ADHD and is associated with significant long-term reduction in symptoms. Though limitations exist regarding conclusions about the specific effects of NF, the review documents improvements in school, social, and family environments. However, future efforts should focus on implementing standard neurofeedback protocols, ensuring learning, and optimizing clinically relevant transfer and more studies are needed for a properly powered comparison of follow-up effects between NF and active treatments and to further control for non-specific effects.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Gut Microorganisms, Neuroinflammation and Behavioral Changes
Authors: Adebisi B. T. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionRecent clinical and preclinical evidences suggested that neuroinflammation is a key factor which interacts with the neurobiological correlates of major depressive disorder, which are the (i) dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, (ii) depletion of brain serotonin and (iii) alteration of neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus.The gut bacterial has major impact on the brain development, behaviour and host immune system through the microbiota-gut-brain
axis.ObjectivesThe objective of the research is to establish the role inflammation induced by gut dysbiosis plays in behavioural changes of patients suffering from major depressive disorders.MethodsClinical data and preclinical experiments were used to elucidate the role gastrointestinal bacterial play in the development and functional physiology of the nervous system and because of the bidirectional communication between the enteric nervous system in the gut and the central nervous system, through the vagal plexus, blood circulation and endocrine system; it was discovered that the appropriate population of intestinal microbiota affect the immunological state of the brain.ResultsThe intestinal microbiota has been able to maintain the attenuation and regulation of pro-inflammatory biomarkers in the brain and such had assisted in the healthy state of the brain; however, a disruption of gastrointestinal organisms in a condition called dysbiosis could result in breakdown of protective gastrointestinal mucosa barrier resulting in leaky gut and consequently, the permeability of the gut lining and migration of some bacteria, to the brain through the vagal networks and other channels.These pathophysiological cascades appear to be triggered or sustained and reinforced by chronic inflammatory condition involving increased circulating markers of inflammation, which are able to cross the blood brain barrier to activate the microglia.ConclusionsStudies in depression suggest that inflammatory biomarkers such as C-reactive protein can be used to enrich samples for anti-inflammatory clinical trials for depression that target inflammation-related symptoms such as anhedonia and anxiety.Although, still at the developmental stages, imaging of neuroinflammation will help establish a target in the brain to further facilitate the testing of anti-inflammatory therapies for depression.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
The Impulsivity-Compulsivity Spectrum: Understanding Brain Mechanisms and Clinical Implications
Authors: Pinheiro Ramos C. , Baptista C. , Nogueira J. , Mendes S. , Gamito A. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionImpulsivity and compulsivity are natural behaviors controlled by brain mechanisms that are essential for survival in all species. Understanding these brain mechanisms may lead to targeted treatment strategies for these symptom domains when impulsivity and compulsivity become dysfunctional.Pathological impulsivity and compulsivity characterise a broad range of mental disorders.ObjectivesThis study aimed to synthesise the latest evidence about the conceptualization of the impulsivity-compulsivity spectrum.MethodsA review was conducted, drawing on reputable sources (PubMed and Web of Science databases).ResultsThe concept of impulsivity can be defined as a predisposition toward rapid, unplanned reactions to internal or external stimuli without regard to the negative consequences of these reactions to the impulsive individual or to others. However, impulsivity is not always unplanned. Impulsive behaviours can be conceptualised as the core symptoms of a broad range of psychiatric disorders.In contrast, compulsivity refers to repetitive behaviours that are performed according to certain rules or in a stereotypical fashion. Compulsivity is a tendency to repeat the same, often purposeless acts, which are sometimes associated with undesirable consequences.Impulsivity and compulsivity may be viewed as diametrically opposed, or alternatively, as similar, in that each implies a dysfunction of impulse control. Each involves alterations within a wide range of neural processes, including attention, perception, and coordination of motor or cognitive responses.ConclusionsThe neurobiology of impulsivity and compulsivity may involve inhibitory neurotransmitters, excitatory neurotransmitters, the prefrontal cortex, and/or limbic dysfunction.Impulsive and compulsive features may present at the same time or at different times during the same illness. Although both compulsive and impulsive disorders may be related to prefrontal cortex dysfunction, compulsive disorders would be related to hyperactivity and impulsive disorders to hypoactivity of the prefrontal cortex. Compulsiveness appears to be associated with increased frontal lobe activity, while impulsiveness may be associated with reduced frontal lobe activity.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Navigating Information Technologies in Everyday Psychiatry Practice: A Guide for Early Career Psychiatrists
Authors: Vasilchenko K. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis presentation provides an overview of the impact of information technologies on contemporary psychiatric practice, focusing on resources and strategies beneficial for early career psychiatrists. Considering the increasing role of digital technologies in diagnosing and treating mental disorders, the presentation emphasizes the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies offer novel approaches for analyzing large volumes of clinical data, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and personalizing treatment.The presentation further examines ethical and legal issues associated with using digital technologies in psychiatry, including ensuring data confidentiality and complying with patient rights. The importance of developing competencies in information security and ethical principles when using digital tools is highlighted.The talk concludes with an overview of the current and future trends in the use of digital technologies in psychiatry, including the development of virtual therapeutic environments and mobile applications for monitoring and supporting mental health. Examples of successful integration of these technologies into clinical practice are presented, emphasizing their potential to improve the quality of patient care.
Overall, the presentation underscores the importance for early career psychiatrists of mastering information technologies, highlighting their role in enhancing diagnosis, treatment, and patient care, as well as discussing the challenges and opportunities they present.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Illness-Related Domestic Violence Experiences of Individuals Diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bayram Z. , Aktaş M. C. , Gundogdu H. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionObsessions and compulsions often focus on routine life actions such as consuming, bathing and living in public, so the disorder interferes with the social, family and occupational functioning of both the individual and their caregiver. In OCD, caregivers are often involved in the ritual behaviors of the individual, either by providing avoidance or by assisting in ritual behaviors. Individuals with OCD are often exposed to aggression from family members because of these behaviors. Research has shown that individuals with OCD may experience illness-related domestic violence. In the literature review on the subject, there were no qualitative studies examining the experiences of individuals diagnosed with OCD towards domestic violence caused by the symptoms of the disease. A mix-method study conducted by aimed to explore the illness-related domestic violence experiences of individuals diagnosed with OCD. The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather data from individuals with OCD. The findings of the study revealed that a significant number of individuals with OCD reported experiencing domestic violence related to their illness. This study highlights the importance of addressing the issue of domestic violence in individuals with OCD and the need for appropriate interventions and support.ObjectivesThis study was planned to examine the experiences of individuals diagnosed with OCD regarding domestic violence caused by the symptoms of the disease in Turkey.MethodsThe sample of the study was determined by purposive sampling method. The study was conducted with individuals diagnosed with OCD who were being treated in the psychiatric clinics of two university hospitals. The study used mixed methods and was planned in two phases. In the first stage, Socio-Demographic Data Form and Yale-Brown Obsession Compulsion Scale were used. After reviewing the results of these scales, individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 patients who had a history of domestic violence and scored above 16 on the Yale Brown Obsessions and Compulsions Scale. Data saturation was deemed to have been reached and data collection was terminated.ResultsThe analysis of the data is still ongoing in detail by the researchers. The findings and relational implications of the study will be presented.ConclusionsIt is thought that the results of the study will provide a basis for further research and intervention programs and contribute to the literature by determining the types of violence experienced by individuals diagnosed with OCD from family members due to the disease, how patients feel in the face of the problems they experience and how they cope with it. In addition, the results of the study are expected to help intervention programs to be developed for families to strengthen treatment adherence.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Is content of delusions in psychotic depression related to the risk of dementia?
Authors: Coelho J. T. , Martins B. , Silva A. , Silveira C. , Machado A. S. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Some studies have shown that late-life depression is related to faster cognitive decline and may increase the risk of dementia.Identifying risk and protective factors for dementia is essential to develop preventive interventions. Some literature has suggested that mood disorders (namely depression) are potential modifiable risk factors for dementia.Thus, it is important to know clinical presentation of depression that is associated to dementia, as a manifestation of subclinical dementia or as a risk factor for neurocognitive disorders.ObjectivesWe aim to identify clinical characteristics related to dementia of inpatients admitted for first time due to depressive episode after 55 years old.MethodsRetrospective cohort study of inpatients admitted between January 1st 2010 and March 31st 2022 in a psychiatry inpatient unit of a tertiary hospital. Descriptive analysis of the results was performed using the SPSS software, version 26.0.ResultsOur sample included 57 inpatients, 15,8% (n=9) with the diagnosis of dementia 5,2 (SD 5,6) years after admission. All of these patients presented a depressive episode with psychotic symptoms, namely delusion activity. In those with hallucinatory activity, no one developed dementia.Interestingly, 33,3% of patients with dementia (n=3) presented with delusion of ruin, 55,6% (n=5) with delusion of prejudice/persecutory delusion and 66,7% (n=6) manifested delusion of ruin and/or prejudice.We also found that 42,9% (n=3) of patients with dementia manifested Cotard delusion while this type of delusion was observed in 13,6% of patients without dementia (p=0,095).ConclusionsOur study has several limitations because is based on results of only one hospital, with a small sample size.However, since depressive symptoms are potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia, future studies are essential to understand the mechanisms that link depression to cognitive decline as well as clinical characteristics that may constitute predictors of dementia.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
“Neuropsychiatric manifestation of hyponatremia: a case report”
Authors: El Moussaoui N. , Bahetta S. , Tbatou L. , Belbachir S. , Ouanass A. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction
“Electrolyte abnormalities are commonly encountered in daily clinical practice, and their diagnosis relies on routine laboratory results. Electrolyte disturbances can affect the brain among many other organs and tissues and must be promptly recognized, as they can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications if neglected or not appropriately treated. Neurological manifestations reflect the severity of acute neuronal dysfunction and thus require urgent treatment. Acute and/or severe electrolyte imbalances can manifest with rapidly progressive neurological symptoms, seizures, and psychiatric manifestations. They are more frequently observed in patients with sodium disorders (especially hyponatremia), hypocalcemia, and hypomagnesemia.ObjectivesWere the psychiatric manifestations secondary to hyponatremia or epilepsy? Or is it a comorbidity? What are the risk factors? And what is the appropriate course of action for this type of patient?”MethodsWe present, through a clinical case, the situation of a 64-year-old patient who experienced status epilepticus secondary to hyponatremia, requiring hospitalization in the neurology department. Subsequently, she developed psychiatric manifestations with a marked change in behavior. She began experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depressive mood, headaches, somatic complaints, and social isolation. Her condition gradually worsened, necessitating hospitalization in the psychiatry department 3 years later.ResultsThe patient was placed on Carbamazepine by her neurologist, and since then, she has not experienced epileptic seizures. Her follow-up electrolyte panel initially showed slight disturbances before normalizing. Psychiatric manifestations were concurrent with these somatic symptoms and worsened over time. During her psychiatric hospitalization three years later, after a thorough evaluation, she was prescribed Sertraline ans Risperidone in combination with Carbamazepine, resulting in a significant improvement in her condition.ConclusionsIn summary, this case illustrates the critical impact of electrolyte abnormalities on both neurological and psychiatric health, especially in older patients. Understanding risk factors associated with electrolyte imbalances is crucial for effective diagnosis and management, particularly in the elderly. This underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to address the potential serious consequences of electrolyte disturbances on overall patient well-being.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared