bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The use of memantine for depressive symptomatology
Authors: Coelho J. T. , Timóteo S. , Machado A. S. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionDepression is one of the most prevalent and incapacitating disease in current times and depressive symptoms have important global functioning implications.The serotonergic and glutamatergic systems are involved in the pathophysiology and treatment of depression. Ketamine is an N-methyl-d-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonist that has demonstrated an important role on depressive symptoms, but its use is restricted due to its dissociative effects and other possible adverse effects.Memantine is a noncompetitive antagonist of the NMDA receptor that modulates glutamate transmission. Memantine is used for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease.ObjectivesIn this review, we aim to investigate, organize and synthetize the current data about the use of memantine for depressive symptoms.MethodsOur literature research focused on some of the most significative articles published in the last decade, including meta-analysis and systematic reviews.Results
Most of the relevant literature suggests that memantine may effectively reduce depressive symptoms in patients with mood disorders.The literature also supports that memantine’s glutamatergic mechanism of action could reduce apathy and treat depression comorbid with alcohol abuse.Memantine affects brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF) production suggesting that glutamate assumes an essential role in the pathology and etiology of depression. Also, the relationship between depression and the NMDA receptor is further supported by the fact that people with major depressive disorder demonstrate higher glutamate levels in the brain and blood.Moreover, current studies demonstrate that treatment with memantine as adjunct to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (namely sertraline) manifested a favourable safety and efficacy profile in patients with major depressive disorder.ConclusionsMemantine may have a wide therapeutic use beyond its utility in neurodegenerative diseases.
More studies should be performed, especially larger controlled studies of longer duration focusing on long-term safety and efficacy.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Geographical differences of the offender-patient pathways across Europe In this part of the workshop, I will make an approach of of how will be treated an forensic psychiatric complex case from Spain point of view
Authors: Tort Herrando V. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractGeographical differences of the offender-patient pathways across EuropeIn this part of the workshop,I will make an approach of of how will be treated an forensic psychiatric complex case from Spain point of view, and diffenneces with another countries. . Differents pathways from detention to be admitedd in a psychiatric facility will be described . Also the approach from standard care to a more complex medical situacion ( from clinical, social and psychological viewa ) in a penitentiary (forensic) resources, including rehablitaation. And finally, the follow-up / after care of a mentally ill offender, when discharge to the commnuity.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Depression, anxiety and stress among flight crews in Tunisia
Authors: Athimni Z. , Jammeli I. , Chouchane A. , Kacem I. , Aloui A. , Bouhoula M. , Gaddour A. , Maoua M. , Brahem A. , Kalboussi H. , El Maalel O. , Chatti S. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe mental health of flight crews is of paramount importance. Due to the demanding nature of their work, crew members are subject to various stress factors such as irregular working hours, time differences, operational demands and high passenger safety responsibilities.ObjectivesWe aimed to evaluate the mental health of Tunisian flight crews working for a private airline.MethodsThis is an exhaustive cross-sectional study which included all flight crews working for a private airline in Tunisia who consulted the occupational medicine and pathology department at the Farhad Hached University Hospital in Sousse as part of their periodic check-up. Data collection was based on a pre-established questionnaire which included socio-demographic data, lifestyle habits and professional data. The DASS21 questionnaire was used to assess depression, anxiety and stress.ResultsOur study included 160 participants. The median age was 42 years with a female predominance. More than half were smokers (58.8%). Alcohol was consumed by 41.3% of flight crews. The vast majority drank coffee (84.4%). With regard to professional data, 71.3% were flight attendants. The median length of service was 15 years. The majority of participants had operated a medium-haul flight (< 5 hours) during the last month (65%). The majority of participants (85.6%) had a normal depression score. Almost a third of the participants (28.5%) had anxiety scores ranging from mild in 24 to extremely severe in one patient. The majority of flight crews had a normal stress score (90%). After multivariate analysis, unmarried marital status, working more than 2 days a week and stress were factors independently associated with anxiety.ConclusionsWork-related psychosocial risks can have a major impact on workers’ mental health. It is therefore essential to take these risks into account and put in place preventive measures to protect workers’ mental health and promote their well-being at work.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Navigating Mental Health Support in Tunisia’s Digital Age: Preferences, Challenges, and Paradoxes-An online survey
Authors: Chhaider O. , Lagha M. , Adouni A. , Ben Romdhane I. , Homri W. , Labbane R. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe digital age has transformed mental health support in Tunisia. This study explores how individuals seek assistance for mental health concerns online, considering their comfort levels, preferences, and decision-making factors.ObjectivesThis study aims to: Investigate the comfort levels of Tunisians when discussing mental health concerns online Identify preferred online sources for mental health support Explore factors influencing the choice between online sources and mental health professionalsMethods
To unearth these insights, an exhaustive online survey was meticulously conducted. This survey was posted online on different social media platforms and cast a wide net, drawing responses from an eclectic cross-section of Tunisian society. The survey methodically gathered data on participants’ demographics, their inclinations towards online avenues for seeking assistance, and the multifaceted factors that sway their choices in this digital age.ResultsIntriguingly, the results of this study illuminate several key findings:Comfort Levels: A striking 47% of respondents expressed their unease about discussing their mental health concerns online. This statistic vividly underscores the intricate interplay between digital platforms and the persistent social stigma surrounding mental health issues.Preferences for Online Sources: The study notably revealed that mental health apps and online counseling websites are emerging as the favored choices among those seeking support. This underscores the surging significance of digital mental health solutions tailored to individual needs.Factors Influencing Preferences: An array of factors sways the preference for online sources. Among them, the allure of anonymity, the appeal of convenience, and the perception of limited access to in-person mental health professionals were prevalent. Additionally, financial constraints emerged as a notable consideration in the decision-making process.Trust in Online Information: In contrast, individuals who leaned toward seeking assistance from mental health professionals stressed the pivotal importance of professional expertise, personalized guidance, and a comprehensive understanding of their concerns. Importantly, 38% expressed reservations about the reliability of online mental health information, underscoring the critical role of trust in the process.ConclusionsThis study sheds light on the nuanced process of seeking mental health assistance in the digital age. It emphasizes the need to address mental health stigma and improve online resource credibility. The findings highlight the importance of comprehensive mental health strategies that integrate digital solutions and traditional professional care, catering to diverse preferences and needs in Tunisia.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Hindering and facilitating factors in the implementation of digital mental health interventions within community settings
Authors: Turmaine K. , Chevreul K. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction
The digitalisation of the society has made inevitable the development and use of digital health. In mental health care, the use of digital tools has been questioned, although their capacity to improve accessibility to evidence-based information and tackle stigma has been recognised. The paradox of these virtual tools is that they need to rely on local resources to get used and disseminated.ObjectivesTo identify the factors from the context that could help or hinder the set-up of an effective intervention in digital mental health.Methods
Between 2018 and 2020, a digital mental health intervention, based on the promotion of StopBlues, a digital tool targeting psychic distress and suicide in in the adult general population, was conducted in 32 willing French localities. In each of the latter, a focal person was designated among the officials to organise the promotion locally and liaise with the research team. Employing interviews and observations, we identified the factors from the context that were favouring or hindering the intervention.Results
The qualitative approach unveiled the existing dynamics between local stakeholders and difficulties faced by the focal persons. It appeared that the pollical context particularly influenced the outcome of the intervention. In parallel, the endorsement by local hospitals and psychiatrists was equally crucial confirming the key role they play when they champion a cause at the forefront.ConclusionsReal-world evaluations using both qualitative and quantitative methods of digital mental health interventions have to be implemented in order to understand how they can help people. If these interventions are in line with the 1986 Ottawa Charter in terms of patient empowerment, they still need to be supported by local stakeholders, both at the pollical and medical levels.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
A study of the personality trait-focused digital mental health intervention
Authors: Jeong S. , Kim H. , Lho S. K. , Mun S. , Hwang I. , Kim S. , Lim H. , Kim H. , Moon W. , Shin M.-S. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionMental healthcare services that address a variety of primary complaints which are highly related to maladaptive personality traits among the general population are important to prevent developing psychiatric disorders.ObjectivesThis study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a digital mental health service (named “Mindling”) that focuses on maladaptive personality traits in the general population.Methods
Participants were recruited through a South Korean community website and screened for adults between the ages of 18 and 60 in terms of personality traits such as perfectionism, low self-esteem, social isolation, or anxiety. Participants were allocated to four intervention programs (Riggy, Pleaser, Shelly, and Jumpy) based on their screening results and were randomly assigned to digital treatment and waitlist groups. Each intervention program was conducted online for 10 weeks. The primary outcomes were all measured by self-report questionnaires; in addition to stress levels, each program included measures of perfectionism (Riggy), low self-esteem (Pleaser), loneliness (Shelly), and anxiety (Jumpy). The secondary outcomes included self-efficacy, depression, and other psychological states. All participants completed pre-treatment (baseline), intervention (week 5), and post-treatment (week 10) assessments, and the treatment group completed a separate follow-up assessment (week 14).Results
In the treatment group, 70.05% of the participants completed the full course of the digital intervention. The mean scores for each primary outcome measure and some secondary outcome measures were significantly different between baseline and post-treatment in the treatment group for the Total, Riggy, Pleaser, Shelly, and Jumpy programs, but these differences were not observed in the waitlist group. In addition, mean differences between the treatment and waitlist groups at post-treatment assessment were significant for all primary outcome measures and some secondary outcome measures. Specifically, the levels of stress (Total program), perfectionism (Riggy), loneliness (Shelly), and anxiety (Jumpy) were significantly lower in the treatment group, while self-esteem (Pleaser) was higher. In addition, the mean differences between post-treatment and follow-up assessment data were not statistically significant for all primary outcome measures and nearly all secondary outcome measures.ConclusionsThis study validated the effectiveness of the digital intervention program targeting maladaptive personality traits and suggested its sustainable effects.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Addiction Transfer Post Bariatric Surgery- A Case Report
Authors: Haugh S. , Belay H. , Cromwell P. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for patients with obesity. Rates of obesity are increasing worldwide as are the number of bariatric procedures performed. Following bariatric surgery patients have increased contact with psychiatric services, there is an increased risk of deliberate self-harm, suicide attempts and completed suicide. Compared to the general population there is 8 fold higher than average suicide rate. In Ireland wait lists for bariatric surgery are long, resulting in many patients seeking surgery abroad. Bariatric ‘tourism’ often results in reduced psychological supports both pre and post op as well as reduced pre surgical screening for psychiatric illness. Bariatric surgery is also associated with ‘addiction transfer’. The literature suggests that patients often substitute the maladaptive coping mechanism of eating with other impulsive behaviors such as substance misuse or gambling.ObjectivesCase report highlighting the issue of addiction transfer among patients that have undergone bariatric surgery.Methods
Case report: A 38 year old woman admitted to the acute psychiatric unit with self harm, suicidal ideation, low mood, and recent overdose of venlafaxine. On initial presentation, she was intoxicated with alcohol, her toxicology was positive for cocaine and benzodiazepines. She had undergone a gastric bypass 14 months previous, having travelled abroad to have the procedure. She had not attended for any bariatric follow up with her GP post operatively. She was not taking any vitamins post operatively despite advice from the clinic. The patient was admitted to the acute psychiatric unit. She admitted to drinking excessively in the last year. She denied any history of mood disturbance or substance or alcohol misuse prior to surgery. She had no previous contacts with psychiatric services. Her GP had commenced her on venlafaxine for low mood 6 months prior to psychiatric admission. She was admitted to the acute unit for 5 days after which she left against medical advice. She was followed up in the day hospital and referred to addiction services.Resultscase reportConclusionsThere is growing evidence about the psychiatric and addiction implications of bariatric surgery. Offering psychological support for patients post operatively is essential. Unfortunately, because of long wait lists in Ireland many patients chose to travel abroad and often are unable to avail of MDT support. The emerging field of bariatric psychiatry could provide a useful addition to the bariatric specialist services.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Impact of child maltreatment on bulimic behaviors among the tunisian general population
Authors: Turki M. , Hadj Ali A. , Chaaben A. , Halouani N. , Megdiche M. A. , Ellouze S. , Aloulou J. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionChild maltreatment (CM) refers to all forms of physical or psychological violence, sexual abuse, and neglect of a person under the age of 18, resulting in actual or potential harm to their health, survival, development, or dignity. It is recognized as a predictor of psychological difficulties in adulthood, such as bulimic behavior.ObjectivesThe aim of our study was to assess the link between CM and bulimic behaviors in the Tunisian general population.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study among Facebook group members, using an online questionnaire, from February 17, 2023, to May 26, 2023. All respondents over the age of 18 were included in the study. CM was assessed using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), which provides information on five types of maltreatment: emotional abuse (EA), physical abuse (PA), sexual abuse (SA), emotional neglect (EN), and physical neglect (PN). The Bulimic Investigatory Test, Edinburgh (BITE) was used to screen and assess the intensity of bulimic behavior.ResultsA total of 528 responses were included in the study. The mean age of the sample was 33.3±11.95 years. Mean AE, AP, AS, NE, NP, and overall CTQ scores were 8.30; 6.58; 6.38; 10.14; 7.26, and 49.72, respectively. A history of severe AE, AP, AS, NE, or NP was reported by 13.1%, 10.8%, 8.5%, 11.6% and 8.3% of respondents, respectively. The mean BITE score was 10.76 ±6.85 and 6.6% of our population were at high risk of developing bulimic behavior.In the bivariate study, the BITE score was significantly correlated with all forms of MI. The strongest correlation was with AE (r=0.310; p<0.001).In the multivariate study, only AE was associated with bulimic behaviors.ConclusionsThis study highlighted a positive association between various forms of child neglect and abuse, and bulimic behaviors. It is therefore worth noting that interventions for these disorders may be more effective if they target not only the behavior itself but also underlying risk factors such as maltreatment.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Epidemiological profile of long-term leave for psychiatric illnesses
Authors: Chemingui S. , Mersni M. , Bani M. , Ben Said H. , Khiari H. , Youssef I. , Mechergui N. , Brahim D. , Bahri G. , Yaich I. , Ben Said C. , Bram N. , Ladhari N. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionLong-term leave for psychiatric illness is the most frequently prescribed reason for leave, and appears to be on the increase in recent years.ObjectivesTo draw up a sociodemographic, occupational and clinical profile of workers who have taken long-term sick leave for psychiatric illnessMethodsRetrospective descriptive study involving the medical files of workers from both the public and private sectors, having benefited from long-term sick leave over a period going from August 17, 2022 to September 12, 2023, referred to the occupational medicine and pathology department of Charles Nicolle Hospital in Tunis for medical fitness-for-work assessment. Data collection was based on a pre-established synoptic form.Results
During the study period, we identified 639 long-term sick leave prescribed for psychiatric illnesses. Our study population was predominantly female, with a sex ratio of 0.29 and a mean age of 46.82 ± 25.06 years. Sixty percent of employees were married. The most represented occupational category was nurses (33%). Average job seniority was 17.21±10.41 years. Depressive syndrome was the most common psychiatric pathology in our population (80.3%), followed by bipolar disorder (6.4%) and anxiety disorder (5%). Long-term sick leave was prescribed by a psychiatrist working in the private sector in 90.3% of cases. The average duration of leave was 63.70±31.58 days. The triggering factor was work-related and social in 33.6% and 30.1% of cases respectively. The agents returned to work after the long-term sick leave in 92% of cases.ConclusionsLong-term sick leave for psychiatric reasons is a handicap to productivity in society. Non-occupational factors are thought to be responsible for these mental health disorders. Setting up and improving social structures in the workplace would reduce the number of cases of long-term sick leaveDisclosure of InterestNone Declared
Sociodemographic and Clinical Determinants of Psychiatric Hospitalization in Northern Greece: A descriptive study
Authors: Porfyri G. N. , Papadopoulou P. , Karakasi M. V. , Vlachaki A. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionAccording to data, psychiatric re-admissions rates vary from 10%-80%, while they negatively affect the patients’ quality of life and life expectancy. The limitation of multiple psychiatric hospitalizations represents a clinical challenge for all mental health professionals.ObjectivesTo investigate risk factors of hospitalization in a sample of psychiatric patients in Northern Greece.Methods
1,633 records of psychiatry inpatients were examined retrospectively throughout the 10-year records of the Psychiatry Department of Papanikolaou General Hospital in northern Greece. The research was conducted between 2013 and August 2023. The sample was divided into subgroups according to gender, diagnosis, and year of hospitalization. A bivariate analysis was performed to examine relationships between the examined variables: (a.) place of residence; (b.) age; (c.) type of admission; (c.) hospitalization duration; (d.) number of lifetime hospitalizations; (e.) lifetime prosecutor’s orders for coercive examination; and (f.) lifetime suicide attempts.Results
A fairly equivalent number of males and females was included in the study (M: 874; F: 759).The mean age of the sample was 44.7 years with males being younger than females (males 43.23; females 46.39). Males residing out of the co-capital as well as females residing within the co-capital of Greece, Thessaloniki, disclosed higher odds of being hospitalized (p<0.03). Coercive hospitalizations represented 47% of cases, bore the highest duration (20.7 days), and involved the youngest patients. Coercively hospitalized male patients outnumbered their female counterparts (p<0.001). Voluntary urgent hospitalizations duration was estimated at 17.04 days, followed by outpatient admissions (12.64 days) and transfers from other clinics (11.35 days). 37% of patients experienced psychosis while 35% experienced affective disorders. Males were more affected by psychosis (Odds Ratio: 1.35; p<0.001). Females were more liable to affective disorders (OR: 1.78; p<0.001). 7% of the sample had committed suicide attempts, with single suicide attempts being ten times higher than multiple suicide attempts (p<0.001). Females were more than twice as likely as males to commit a suicide attempt (p<0.001). Females tended more to be hospitalized self-willingly (p=0.0015) and to voluntarily terminate hospitalizations prematurely (p=0.0014). Patients with a single hospitalization were seven-fold compared to those with multiple hospitalizations (p<0.001). The average lifetime hospitalization number for a patient was one hospitalization, while the average for a patient with previous hospitalizations was three.ConclusionsBeing in position to identify the patients in high-risk for hospitalization -as well as for suicide attempt- the clinician can proceed to initiatives such as treatment modifications or further involving the patient’s family.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared