bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on inpatient admissions for bipolar disorder
Authors: Portela C. , Oliveira C. , Areias D. , Gonçalves M. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionIn 2019, there were 39.5 million patients suffering from bipolar disorder worldwide, resulting in around 8.5 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and in a significant economic burden. Bipolar disorder is known to be susceptible to factors that disrupt biological and social rhythms. The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to control it, such as social distancing, home confinement and lockdowns, pose a risk to the stability of bipolar patients. Other factors, for example, reduced access to treatment and stress associated with the disease could also contribute to relapses. Studies have shown that, in 2020, more people with bipolar disorder were hospitalised compared to previous years, including patients without previous history of hospitalizations.ObjectivesThis study aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on inpatient admissions for bipolar disorder.MethodsSocio-demographic and clinical data were collected from electronic medical records. A retrospective observational study of patients who were admitted to a psychiatric ward between March 2019 and February 2021 was conducted. The characteristics of patients admitted before the pandemic (March 2019 to February 2020) and after (March 2020 to February 2021) were compared statistically.ResultsA total of 850 patient admissions were obtained, 15% of which had a main diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The authors will analyze all the variables in the population admitted. The authors expect to find differences between patients hospitalized before and after the beginning of the pandemic, both in clinical presentation (manic, depressive or mixed episode), psychiatric history, comorbidities, suicide attempts and socio-demographic factors.ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on mental health on a global level, plenty of which is still unknown. The findings of this study will likely show the effects of this crisis on bipolar disorder patients.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
The role of tDCS in psychiatrists toolbox
Authors: Järventausta K. 
Published: August 2023

AbstracttDCS is a low-cost and well-tolerated neuromodulation treatment of depression. It seems to be a good and effective option to start the treatment of depression along or instead of medication in mild or moderate depression. tDCS can be used as an add-on treatment with psychotherapy or medication. Home based tDCS is easy to conduct. However, tDCS should be used with qualified protocols like any other neuromodulation treatment. When the tools in psychiatry are diversifying the precise diagnostics, careful defining of the clinical picture and effective early and individually planned management of depression are key elements gaining better outcomes and preventing treatment resistant depression.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Perinatal depressive symptoms in Portuguese new fathers and mothers during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Pereira D. , Macedo A. , Cabaços C. , Wildenberg B. , Madeira N. , Pereira A. T. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionPostpartum depression, refers to depressive symptoms within a 12-month period after the birth of an infant in a new father or mother. It’s have been a growing mental health concern, as it is one of the leading causes of poor familial and infant health outcomes. Despite the growing attention being given to fathers’ depression, including in Portugal, prevalence data and its possible correlates are still scarce compared to depression in mothers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.ObjectivesTo explore and compare levels of depressive symptomatology and to analyze potential correlates for postpartum depression in Portuguese new mothers and fathers during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods153 men and 187 women (mean age: 36.61± 4.99 vs. 32.98 ±5.00 years, respectively) were recruited in the perinatal period (7.29±3.22 vs 8.58± 0.97 months post-partum) and answered to an online survey that included questions related to sociodemographic and psychosocial variables and validated questionnaires: Perinatal Depression Screening Scale (PDSS), Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire (for Repetitive Negative Thinking/RNT) and Dysfunctional Beliefs Towards Motherhood/Fatherhood Scale (DBTM/F). Statistical analysis was performed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS Version 26 for Mac).ResultsNew-mothers had significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms than new-fathers (41.89±16.94 VS. 33.95±14.99, p<.001). Based on the PDSS’ cutoff point the prevalence of clinically relevant depressive symptoms in male and female progenitors was 21.6% and 39.6%, respectively (p<.001).DBTF were significantly higher compared to DBTM (p<.05). Male and female progenitors did not differ regarding levels of RNT.DBT-M/F (r».40) and RNT (r>.55) significantly and positively correlated with PDSS scores.In both genders, DBT-M/F and RNT significantly (p<.01) predicted PDSS scores explaining 33.8% (Beta: DBT=.136, p=.050; RNT=.538, p<.01) of its variance in fathers and 50.4% in mothers (Beta: DBT=.218, p=.001; RNT=.565, p<.01).ConclusionsDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, Portuguese recent mothers had higher levels of depressive symptoms when compared to recent fathers. However, in both new mothers and fathers, depressive symptoms’ prevalence and severity were higher than the figures found in samples of new parents outside of the pandemic period and of samples from the general population. Addressing DBT-M/F, as well as RNT, in recent parents, could be relevant in preventing/improving their depressive symptoms.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Stress and anxiety among Medical residents working during the covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Hanine I. , Chtibi M. , Belbachir S. , Ouanass A. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionCovid-19 is believed to be one of the most impactful events of the 21’s century,Pressure related to this pandemic was put on every of the health system especially residents.Medical residents whose hierarchical position is particular, in the framework of their training they are subjected to an increased level of stress due to the constant pressure of training and the current challenges of being in the front line of the pandemic.ObjectivesThe aim of our study is to evaluate the presence of stress in medical residents.MethodsUsing a self-evaluation questionnaire with two parts, the first exploring age, sexe, history of medical, surgical and psychiatric disorders the second part exploring stress with the French version of PSS-10 (preveived stress scale).ResultsConcerning our descriptive statistcs: among our 140 residents, percentage of male and female residents were almost equal with 2,85% of them already had a record of an anxiety disorder’s follow-up, 71,4% had a moderate stress level and 8,6% had high stress level.ConclusionsOur study led us to the following conclusion, stress is a component that affects the quality and the work performed by the vast majority of health care workers.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Vaccination against COVID-19 and Clinical correlates among a population of psychiatric outpatients
Authors: jabeur M. , Gassab L. , Ben Mohamed B. , Ben Hawala A. , Mhalla A. , Zaafrane F. , Gaha L. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionPatients suffering from psychiatric disorders represent a population that is particularly at risk of COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality. Vaccination was the most effective strategy to prevent the severe forms of the disease.ObjectivesWe aimed in our study to determine the rate of COVID-19 vaccination and to identify its correlated factors in psychiatric outpatients.MethodsThis is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted on 178 outpatients at the department of psychiatry (Monastir, Tunisia) over a period of one month (from March 2022 to April 2022). Data was collected via a questionnaire focused on two main attributes: (1) sociodemographic and clinical characteristics; (2) questions about the flu vaccination history and its modalities.ResultsThe mean age of our patients was 44.9±13.7 years. The majority of them (81.5%) had a chronic evolution of their psychiatric disorder (> 2 years). Psychosis was the most represented disorder with 57.3% compared to mood disorders and anxiety disorders. Among our population, 73% of the patients received vaccination against COVID-19. The majority got 2 doses (60%), were vaccinated on their own initiative (68%) and by making an appointment (71.4%). Patients with depressive disorders accessed to vaccination program in 100% of cases. The group of psychotic patients had a vaccination rate of 66%. Vaccination was significantly associated with gender (p=0.001), age (p=0.04), marital status (p<10-3), number of children (p=0.002), housing situation (0.018), diagnosis (p<10-3) and treatment (p=0.01)ConclusionsPatients with psychiatric disorders experience a distinct burden of the COVID-19 disease. They should therefore be prioritised in vaccine allocation strategies, especially among patients with psychotic disorders.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Response to the COVID-19 pandemic among the Ukrainian students: Coping strategies and psychological adjustment
Authors: Vasheka T. , Tukaiev S. , Dolgova O. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant transformations in the social life due to the isolation itself and the effect of quarantine restrictions, which together affect the psychological health and well-being in different countries.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to establish the emotional and behavioral students’ responses to the coronavirus pandemic, to assess the dominant coping strategies and the prevalence of neurotic states and stress level among students.MethodsFor this study, a specially designed questionnaire with a set of psychodiagnostic methods was used to diagnose the manifestations of neurotic conditions in students (Clinical questionnaire for the identification and evaluation of neurotic conditions by K.K. Yakhin, D.M. Mendelevich), the level of psychological stress and the main coping strategies (questionnaire " Coping strategies” by R. Lazarus). The sample consisted of 213 respondents, students of Kyiv Universities (119 female)ResultsAmong Ukrainian students, the dominant reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic are depressive disorders, anxiety and fears, a third of the students self-reported autonomic disorders. The stress level is moderate. Female reacted to the pandemic situation with more serious mental health disorders compared to male. The use of all coping strategies was recorded at a high level of tension, which indicates that students are already exhausting their adaptive potential and are actually maladapted in the current conditions.ConclusionsThe study confirms the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of young people. The available mental resources to overcome a difficult situation are exhausted, so students prefer to avoid and ignore stressful information. This gives rise to the need for psychological support and educational activities on health techniques.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Intolerance of uncertainty and vaccine hesitancy of health care workers in response to covid 19 vaccination
Authors: Dhakouani S. , Lansari R. , hamrouni N. , Larnaout A. , melki W. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionThe covid 19 pandemic was a period of uncertainty. This uncertainty was sustained even after the advent of the vaccine against covid 19. Several concerns have emerged related to the vaccine and health care workers were at the centre of this uncertainty.ObjectivesStudy intolerance of uncertainty and vaccine hesitancy among health care workers in relation to covid 19 vaccinationMethodsThis is a descriptive study conducted by a questionnaire posted on social networks using Google Forms targeting groups of health professionals before the launch of the vaccination campaign in Tunisia from January 16, 2021 to March 6, 2021.We collected sociodemographic data and the attitudes of health care workers about COVID 19 vaccination. We used Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale short form (IUS 12) to evaluate the intolerance of uncertainty related to COVID 19 vaccineResultsOur study included 168 health care workers represented mainly by medical personnel (81% of the respondents). The average age was 34 ±10 years and sex ratio was 0.22.Sixty percent (60%) of population were hesitant in front of the COVID 19 vaccine.This hesitancy was explained in 90% of cases by the insecurity of the new COVID19 vaccine. Thirty-seven percent (37%) doubted the efficacy of these vaccines and 22% trivialized COVID19 by expressing the worthlessness of preventing this disease.The mean score for intolerance of uncertainty was 26.57 ± 9.68 and a median of 26. The minimum score was 10 and the maximum score was 50. We found a significant association between intolerance of uncertainty and vaccine hesitancy (p=0.034). Subjects with higher uncertainty intolerance scores were less hesitant in front of COVID19 vaccination.ConclusionsIntolerance of uncertainty is a consideration when introducing a new covid 19 vaccine to health care workers and in a pandemic contextDisclosure of InterestNone Declared
Sociopetal design in psychiatric therapuetic settings
Authors: Danziger J. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractSociopetal design methods can offer interesting means to support therapeutic concepts within ward environments. They can help to forge group identities through offering patients, staff and visitors opportunities to identify with the spaces they inhabit. “Sociopetal space” has been defined as “spaces which help bring people together"; but how does this actually work and what role can these types of spaces play in a hospital ward setting?Some of these elements operate at a detail level and can be rather simple to deploy. Normalising the environment by making “regular” design decisions such as by using real rather then simulated materials (ie., actual wood rather then “wood patterned” furniture); or through offering a mix of lighting (ie., artificial and natural sources in variation) can create more homely spaces for patients and staff alike. Ultimately, design decisions at the detail scale can create phenomenal elements which can play a large role towards generating a favorable atmospheric experience on the ward.It is also possible to explore how specific moments or places within a psychiatric ward might be designed to support patient agency, even on a closed ward. Sociopetal elements such as well-sited sitting spaces can offer moments of safety or retreat, leading to a greater sense of control. This can help patients feel more open to positive interactions with their colleagues and staff because they can safely observe or choose less committed ways of participation in daily or group activities.Zooming out from these details, we will also look at the layout of a psychiatric ward (ie. accommodations) to help identify where opportunities such as those listed can be found. Simple gestures such as a slight widening of the corridor leading to important shared areas or better access to light or views of nature have been shown to improve outcomes for patients. What other design elements can be placed on or within wards to further this approach? Recent and ongoing projects within our practice will be shared to help workshop participants gather literacy in case they may be involved in future design projects.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Psychological impact of the covid-19 pandemic on health care personnel working in COVID settings
Authors: Ayed W. , Brahim D. , Mechergui N. , Ben Said H. , Mersni M. , Ernez S. , Youssef I. , Ladhari N. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionCOVID19 pandemic had a significant psychological impact on the population worldwide. However, health care workers have been the most exposed to psychological effects.ObjectivesTo determine the psychological impact of the covid19 pandemic on health care professionals (HCPs) who were working in the covid19 setting.MethodsDescriptive cross-sectional study carried out in May 2020, having interested the HCPs of the Charles Nicolle hospital who were working in the COVID19 settings .The data collection was carried out with a pre-established questionnaire .The visual analog scale of B. Chini was used to assess the level of work stress. This assessment was undertaken at three points in time: during the work, during the confinement period and post confinement .ResultsSeventy five nurses participated to the study. The average age was 39.7±9.6 years. The sex ratio was 0.74. The average professional seniority was 11.6±8.14 years. During the confinement, a feeling of anxiety and apprehension of danger to others were reported by 96% of the participants. In addition, sleep disorders and irritability were noticed in 65% and 92% of cases respectively. At the end of the confinement period, 77% of the cases reported neuropsychological complaints: feelings of anxiety (57%), mood disorders (49%), a sleep disorders (32%) and concentration disorders (20%). The average level of stress was evaluated at 7.54 during the work, 7.36 during confinement and 5.28 after confinement. Faced with this psychological suffering, 88% of the cases noted the absence of psychological support or assistance.ConclusionsPsychological support and early screening in psychiatry and occupational medicine are necessary to prevent any deterioration in their mental health.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Menthal health of internally and externally displaced persons in war period
Authors: Maruta N. O. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractWorkshop War in Ukraine – a Big Challenge for the Mental Health Care
Abstract of presentation Mental health of internally and externally displaced persons in war period (Ukrainian experience)Maruta“Institute of Neurology, Psychiatry and Narcology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine” State InstitutionThe presentation is devoted to mental health problems of internally and externally displaced persons during the war. Issues of etiology, pathogenesis and clinic-psychopathological manifestations of mental disorders in displaced persons are considered.The main focus is on risk, anti-risk factors and stress coping strategies that prevent the development of mental disorders.The presentation also provided a system of therapy and rehabilitation for internally and externally displaced persons, as well as an evaluation of their effectiveness.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
“Lactose free” depression- Antidepressant with and without lactose registered in Croatia
Authors: Svetinović D. , Barun I. , Vuk Pisk S. , Filipčić I. , Grošić V. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionDepression is a common illness worldwide, with an estimated 3.8% of the population affected, including 5.0% among adults and 5.7% among adults older than 60 years. Lactose intolerance affects 70% of the world population. With both conditions being common there are a lot of people having both lactose intolerance and depression. People with lactose intolerance are unable to fully digest lactose. As a result, they have diarrhea, bloating and gas after eating or drinking dairy products. Lactose is one of the most used excipients in drug formulations and is ofteny overlooked when prescribed.ObjectivesTo quantify and identify the amount of lactose in medications used for the treatment of depression and to identify ‘lactose-free’ medication registered in Croatia.MethodsMedications used for the treatment of depression were identified from the Agency for medicinal products and medical products of Croatia (HALMED). Their formulation including excipients was obtained from the Agency.ResultsWide range of antidepressants contains lactose. We have quantified the lactose amount using information on medicinal products with marketing authorisation granted by HALMED.
AntidepressantBrand name and dosageLactose per tablet (mg)SertralineSonalia ® 50 mg19.80mgParoxetineParoksetin PharmaS®10mgEscitalopramEscital ® 10mg117.8mgElicea ® 5mg51.3mgCitalopramCitalon ® 20mg23mgMirtazapineCalixta ® 15mg44.4mgMirzaten ® 30mg120.56mgMirzaten Q tab ® 15mg35.63mgConclusionsWith this research, we have pointed out a high proportion of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants that contain lactose. Considering the high proportion of the general population with lactose intolerance, we have pointed out the importance of knowing the data that antidepressants do not contain lactose in order to choose an adequate therapy for our patients, while not causing them discomfort that will further reduce the effectiveness of the therapy, as well as increase the percentage of those who due to the side effects of the drug, they stop taking the therapy. This research will help clinicians in their daily work to choose the most optimal therapy for their patients. With this study, we will give doctors a list of medications for depression treatment without lactose. With this study, we will give doctors a list of medications for depression treatment without lactose.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
When the SAINT goes marching in – A novel transcranial magnetic stimulation protocol shows miraculous promise
Authors: Vieira de Andrade J. D. , Brito M. J. 
Published: August 2023

IntroductionTranscranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation tool with a growing body of clinical evidence demonstrating positive outcomes in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) as sole or adjuvant therapy. Theta-burst stimulation (TBS), specifically intermittent TBS (iTBS), uses short intermittent pulse trains to cut each session’s duration to 10% of the original repetitive TMS protocol sessions, making it a more appealing option given that it shows similar efficacy. Nevertheless, the number of sessions required remains the same, with a single protocol lasting around 4 to 6 weeks, or longer. However, a new protocol has very recently been approved by the FDA for application in TRD, called the SAINT (Stanford Intelligent Accelerated Neuromodulation Therapy), which reduces treatment duration to 5 days.ObjectivesTo ascertain what evidence supports the SAINT protocol and its efficacy by reviewing available published literature.MethodsA PubMed database search was performed and the main findings of selected studies were summarized.ResultsThree articles were found, which consisted of clinical trials with small study samples of TRD patients. One study found a 90% remission rate after the aforementioned 5-day treatment regimen, with another reporting a 79% response rate after a double-blinded trial. All studies reported no difference in tolerability compared with regular iTBS protocols.ConclusionsThe SAINT protocol shows promising preliminary results, with efficacy, tolerability and safety of use comparable with that of TMS protocols already in use. The reduction in treatment duration that this intensive option is based on is a significant improvement for applicability in clinical practice, which might increase patient compliance and offer quicker results. Further studies are required to evaluate whether the remission rates are maintained in the long term.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared