bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Personality tests across settings, considering language proficiency and literacy
Authors: Steyn R. , Ndofirepi T. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionGeneric psychometric instruments are frequently used in psychiatric practice. When a respondent provides an affirmative reply to two contrasting items in such a questionnaire (e.g. “I am reserved” and “I am outgoing”), serious questions need to be asked about the respondent, the instrument, and the interaction between the two.ObjectivesThe research aims to identify reasons which could explain the contradictory answers provided by respondents to a well-established, and seemingly psychometrically sound instrument.MethodsWorld Values Survey data, collected in South Africa (N = 3 531), were analysed, focusing on the personality survey, where contrasting response to matching items were identified. Exploratory factor analyses were used to inspect the factorial structure of the instrument across groups, after which measurement invariance tests were done.ResultsThe theorised factorial structure of the personality survey did not mirror the structure in the South African sample. This was demonstrated in the inspection-report, as well as in the tests of measurement invariance. However, in some groups, specifically those who were well-versed in English and possessed higher levels of education, the structures were replaceable.ConclusionsThe assumption that well-established instruments are valid in settings different to the one where they were initially developed, should be questioned, and such instruments should not be used unless thoroughly tested. This presentation exposes the extent of measurement non-invariance when using an instrument in a foreign setting and shows how this can be detected and addressed. Those working with foreign individuals or conducting cross-cultural research should be particularly aware of these threats to validity.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
A Human Rights-Based Approach To Acute Mental Health Crisis Care
Authors: Mahler L. 
Published: September 2022

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as well as the new guidance on community mental health services recently published by the World Health Organization formulate clear goals for the future of psychiatry and psychosocial support. Innovative concepts of psychiatric care that focus on full participation, recovery-orientation and the prevention of coercion play an important role in achieving these goals. Implementing and scientifically evaluating the effects of such models in mental health services needs to be prioritized in national mental health planning and budgeting decisions. In this lecture, Dr. Lieselotte Mahler will address the requirements of psychiatric concepts, specifically on acute psychiatric wards, to enable participation and prevent coercion. Using practical examples and evaluated models (e.g. Weddinger Modell, standardized post-coercion review sessions), she will make suggestions on how a psychiatry oriented towards human rights can also be implemented within existing clinical structures. Dr. Lieselotte Mahler will discuss, based on the current state of research as well as practical experience, which challenges exist with regard to patient autonomy and prevention of coercion in clinical practice and how these can be addressed from a human rights perspective.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
“I heard the heartbeat”- Psychophysiological and Sociocultural Determinants in Pseudocyesis and Delusion of Pregnancy
Authors: Akira A. , Deka A. , Banayan D. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionPseudocyesis and Delusion of Pregnancy are often conflated. Both presentations are associated with false beliefs of pregnancy in patients who are not pregnant. Pseudocyesis is associated with physiological changes of pregnancy such as amenorrhea, galactorrhea, abdominal distention, and hyperprolactinemia. Delusion of Pregnancy is not associated with physiological signs/changes. We describe a case to demonstrate the phenomenological and physiological differences between these entities and how these influence treatment considerations.Objectives1.Phenomenology of Pseudocyesis vs Delusion of Pregnancy 2.Elucidate the physiological underpinnings of both 3.Treatment considerationsMethodsComprehensive literature review following a 29-year-old-female with no known psychiatric history presenting to the emergency department with mixed complaints of twin-pregnancy, menorrhagia, and concern for threatened abortion. Psychiatry was consulted for decisional capacity to leave against-medical-advice due to concerns for ectopic pregnancy. Patient reported a recent ultrasound with fetal heartbeat and sensation of fetal “kicks”. She was concerned the menorrhagia was threatening her pregnancy. The patient appeared irritable, paranoid, endorsed ideas of reference and a fixed false belief that she was pregnant with twins, despite quantitative HCG, abdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds being negative. On examination, while there was vaginal bleeding, there were no stigmata of pregnancy.ResultsDiagnosis- Delusion of Pregnancy.ConclusionsDelusion of Pregnancy have been associated with polythematic content. Pseudocyesis may be confounded by conditions such as abdominal neoplasms, leiomyoma, and endocrinologic changes (eg- hyperprolactinemia). Potent D2R antagonists carry increased risk of hyperprolactinemia and subsequent galactorrhea which may paradoxically exacerbate misattributions of pregnancy. Careful consideration of psychotropic choice is therefore needed in the management of these conditions.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Chaos Unleashed: The impact of recreational drugs and COVID on young adults
Authors: Makela A. , Howard M. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionThis case series reveals a number of young adults, whom after chronic use of recreational drugs, suffer the life-long consequence of severe chronic mental illness.Objectives• Review the illicit drugs that are commonly associated with psychotic symptoms. • Highlight exposures theorized to impact genetics associated with DSM 5 diseases. • Compare trends in illicit drug use during the worldwide COVID pandemic.MethodsA literature review is used to examine the impact of COVID pandemic on illicit drug use in metropolitan cities in European countries and compare the trends with what is seen by the consult liaison psychiatry service at a metropolitan community hospital in the USA.ResultsIn European Countries with data available, there were measurable differences in which illicit drugs were used most during the COVID 19 pandemic. In the US this data is not readily available at the time of submission for proper comparisson.ConclusionsAlthough definitive comparrison is pending, the results of extensive illicit drug use demostrate a high comorbidity with psychotic spectrum disorders in the DSM 5.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Psychological Impacts on Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder: a Study in Southern Taiwan with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) in 2020
Authors: Chu C.Y. , Wang S.-C. , Lee C.-H. , Cheng C.-M. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionAlcohol consumption is a risk factor for various comorbidities, such as cirrhosis, chronic sclerosing stomatitis, and neuropsychiatric disorders.ObjectivesOur study examined the associations between psychological factors and alcohol addiction of the individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in Southern Taiwan.MethodsDemographic information as well as suicidal history and sources of stress were collected from 177 participants. The extent of alcoholism was assessed by AUDIT questionnaire. Demographic and linear regression analyses were performed with the Statistical Software Stata version 12.0 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA).ResultsDemographic data, suicidal history and the causes of stress of patients divided by AUDIT scores are shown in
Table 1. Among 177 participants, 17 (9.6%) had suicidal thoughts, 4 (2.3%) had suicide plan, 22 (12.5%) self-injured, and four-fifth of patients lived under pressure. Patients who self-harmed were with significant lower AUDIT scores of -7.24 (95% CI: -11.49 – -3.00) (Table. 2). The AUDIT scores of patients with physical stress, interpersonal difficulties and loneliness increased significantly by 6.71 (95% CI: 3.19 – 10.30), 6.14 (95% CI: 2.15 – 10.13) and 5.02 (95% CI: 0.93 – 9.11), respectively (Table. 3).ConclusionsOur findings indicated negative correlation with alcohol use and auto-inflicted injury. However, previous study showed systematic assessment of the association between suicide and AUD, and considered alcohol an important risk factor for suicide, which is related to mental health and affected by different genders and drinking patterns. Our results may provide reference for estimation of the alcohol-related psychological effects in Taiwan.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Assessment of Self-Esteem Among Tunisian Cannabis Users
Authors: Brahim S. , Henia M. , Haj Mohamed A. , Aoun M.H. , Zarrouk L. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionCannabis is among the most widely used substances in the world. it is associated with several mental health problems.ObjectivesTo assess self-esteem among a group of young Tunisian users of cannabis.MethodsThe total study sample was composed of 137 participants, who took part of a transversal descriptive study during two months (January and February 2020).ResultsIn our study population, the cannabis consumers were young adults aged between 18 and 35 years old, with a male predominance of 71%. Among those users, 65.9% were single and 29.7% dropped out of school or experienced academic failure. On a socio-economic level, we concluded to a rate of 5.8% (lower class), 60.9% (middle class) and 33.3% (upper class). Besides, 40.8% were employed. In total, 23.2% had a psychiatric history. Furthermore, the use of other substances was also prominent and frequent as follows: alcohol 72.5%, tobacco 74.6%, ecstasy 41.3% and 25.4% cocaine. The use of cannabis was considered as a means of indulgence and pleasure for 66.7%, as an anxiolytic for 26.8% and as a sedative for 23.9%. Self-esteem, among those cannabis users, was very low in 20% of cases, low in 38% of cases, medium in 15% of cases and high in 25% of cases.ConclusionsThese results lead us to question the relation between cannabis and self-esteem. The question that is evolved about the use of cannabis is the following: Is it used as a remedy or is it the cause of self-esteem deficiency?DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Course of the Metabolic Syndrome (Mets) in a First Episode Psychosis Sample
Authors: Garcia De Jalon E. , Aranguren L. , Fernandez Falces A. , Aquerreta Unzue A. , Pereda N. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionThere is evidence that metabolic syndrome (MetS) is common in chronic psychosis but also exists in the early stages.ObjectivesTo study the prevalence and course of MetS over a period of 2 year after a first episode psychosis. To determine whether there may be differences in its prevalence according to the type of antipsychotic used over two years.MethodsA sample of 300 patients participate in the PEPsNa Early Intervention Programme. SMet was determined at baseline and at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. The type of antipsychotic used at each assessment moment is collected (none, aripiprazole, paliperidone, others). Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria were used to define MetS.ResultsThe prevalence of MetS at baseline is 4.44% and increases to 7.96% at 6 months, 10.1% at 12 months, 8.62% at 18 months and 9.01% at 24 months. The prevalence of MetS increases at 6 (p<0.021) and 12 months (p<0.003) compared to baseline and then remains stable. Only at 6 months assessment there are significant differences (F-Ficher p<0.022) in the presence of MetS (15.8%) in the paliperidone group treatment (oral or LAI).ConclusionsMetabolic syndrome (MetS) exists from the early stages of psychosis and increases in the first 6-12 months and remains stable thereafter. The type of antipsychotic treatment only seems to have an influence at 6 months, with no differences at other follow-up times.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Bariatric surgery as a treatment for refractory obesity in patients with schizophrenia. Weight-loss outcomes and safety in 36 months follow-up
Authors: Lorencetti P. , Chaim E. , Cazzo E. , Junior A. , Dalgalarrondo P. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionObesity has increased worldwide and concerns comorbidity in patients with schizophrenia, and is linked to a high mortality rate in this group. Although bariatric surgery is the gold standard treatment for refractory obesity, it rarely is indicated for subjects with schizophrenia due to psychotic symptoms recurrence.ObjectivesReport weight-loss outcome and psychopathology changes over 36 months follow-up of 5 patients with schizophrenia submitted to bariatric surgery.MethodsPatients have been followed for 36 months. Clinical and anthropometric assessments such as percentage of excess weight loss (EWL) and body mass index (BMI) have been performed at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months follow-up. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was used to assess psychopathology status. Wilcoxon test was used to assess statistical differences.ResultsThe sample included four female and one male subject, with BMI at baseline 42,81± 5,66. The results of BMI and EWL over time are described in Table 1. A significant statistical difference was found between BMI at baseline and at T6, T12, T24, and T36 (p<0,05). EWL was higher at T12 ( compared with T6), but not different from other measurements. PANSS scores at the baseline were 7,7 ± 1,6 for a positive domain, 8,7 ± 2,3 for a negative domain, and 19,2 ± 6 for general psychopathology, with no statistically significant differences during the follow-up.ConclusionsDespite the small sample, bariatric surgery has been shown a safe and efficient refractory obesity treatment in patients with schizophrenia.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Psychosocial risks among the healthcare workforce working in COVID services: findings from a cross-sectional study on psychosocial risks
Authors: Gouveia P.A. , Lopes D. , Henriques A.R. , Moura P. , Pires A. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionPoor management in healthcare can have significant consequences in the workers’ health, performance, and quality of care. Several risks worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, namely among the workforce caring for patients with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 infection.ObjectivesWe aimed to assess psychosocial risks among a sample of 235 healthcare workers deployed in COVID-19-related services in Portugal’s Lower Alentejo.MethodsParticipants filled out with ten sociodemographic questions and the Euro-Portuguese medium version of the COPSOQ II questionnaire. Data collection occurred February 2021. Tertiles were used to render a traffic light risk categorization. Results were processed with qualitative and quantitative descriptive statistical analysis. To compare groups relative to each outcome, t-tests were used for variables with two categories. Whenever data was not normally distributed, Mann-Whitney tests were used. For variables with more than two groups non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis was applied. Bonferroni correction was also applied, testing each individual hypothesis at the level of significance of αi=0.05/29. A statistically significant difference between two groups did not necessarily yield a different risk colour.ResultsOverall, cognitive demands, emotional demands and influence at work showed the highest risk, while 19 domains showed intermediate risk. The burnout domain showed to be highest among nurses and operational assistants working in the Intensive Care Unit. Several associations between COPSOQ domains and sociodemographic variables are also discussed.ConclusionsAssessment of psychosocial stressors in healthcare units is needed to promote risk reduction policies and workplace reforms. Accessible occupational services, therapeutic and rehabilitative strategies should play a role in improving health hazards in unhealthy workplaces.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
The relationship between anxiety and dysfunctional breathing among the Russian population during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Koniukhovskaia J. , Pervichko E. , Mitina O. , Stepanova O. , Petrenko V. , Shishkova I. , Dorokhov E. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionDysfunctional breathing is a pattern of respiratory movements that do not correspond to the physiological needs of the body and can lead to a series of respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, sensory and neurological symptoms ( Vidotto et al., 2019). The causes of dysfunctional breathing are a combination of biological, psychological and social factors.ObjectivesTo examine the relationship between anxiety and occurrence of dysfunctional breathing in the Russian population under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsWe used a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Naimigen questionnaire (Van Dixhorn, Duivenvoordent, 1985), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger et al., 1983). The study was conducted online from April 27 to December 28, 2020. It was attended by 1,362 people from all regions of Russia, including 1,153 women and 209 men aged 15 to 88 years (38.3 ±11.4)ResultsIt was revealed that with a low level of state anxiety (< 35 points), dysfunctional breathing was detected in 4.8% of respondents; while with a borderline level of anxiety (> 60 points) there were at 55.9%. A similar dependence was found for personal anxiety: at a low level (< 35 points), dysfunctional breathing was detected in only 4% of respondents;while at a borderline level of anxiety (> 60 points) at 62.8%.ConclusionsDysfunctional breathing can occur among people with high and borderline levels of situational and personal anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results allows us to conclude that dysfunctional breathing and anxiety are not equivalent concepts, although they have a common phenomenological field. The study was supported of the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 21-18-00624.DisclosureThe study was supported of the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 21-18-00624.
Childhood trauma and anger in adults with and without depressive and anxiety disorders
Authors: De Bles N. , Putz L. , Rius-Ottenheim N. , Van Hemert A. , Giltay E. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionChildhood trauma is associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depressive disorders, but its association with anger, irritability, and related constructs has received less attention.ObjectivesWe aimed to investigate (1) the relationship between childhood trauma and anger constructs in adulthood, and (2) which types of childhood trauma is most predictive.MethodsIn the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA), childhood trauma at baseline was assessed with a semi-structured interview. Childhood trauma was analyzed in relation to the Spielberger Trait Anger Subscale (STAS), the Anger Attacks Questionnaire, and the cluster B personality traits part of the Personality Disorder Questionnaire 4 (PDQ-4), measured at 4-year follow-up, using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusting for sex, age, level of education, BMI, smoking, alcohol dependency/abuse, disorder status.ResultsParticipants were on average 42.1 years (SD = 13.1), and 66.3% (n = 1.508) were female. Childhood trauma showed a dose-response association with all anger constructs. Zooming in, emotional neglect, and psychological, and physical abuse were associated with all anger constructs, independently of depression or anxiety. Additionally, sexual abuse and childhood life events were associated with trait anger and borderline personality traits, and trait anger and antisocial personality traits retrospectively.ConclusionsChildhood trauma is linked with anger in adulthood. Childhood trauma may cause not only anxiety and depression, but also anger, and tailored interventions (at both childhood trauma and anger itself
) might help to improve unsatisfactory relationships and prevent violent behaviors.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Emotional impact on Spanish health professional because of the COVID19 crisis
Authors: Alvarado Dafonte A. , Soldado Rodríguez L. , Ruiz Martinez G. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has positioned health professionals around the world in an unprecedented situation, having to work in extreme conditions.The reactions of healthcare personnel that concern us most are the negative psychological effects of the pandemic, such as exhaustion, moral injury, acute stress reactions, anxiety, depression or post- traumatic stress disorder.ObjectivesTo assess the impact of the COVID19 crisis on mental health of Spanish health professionals during the start of the pandemic.MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional study is carried out, in which the population sample to be studied was the health professionals who responded to the online questionnaire designed to assess the emotional impact caused by the COVID-19 health crisis.The questionnaire collects sociodemographic and labor data, which correspond to the independent variables of the study. The dependent variables correspond to the two scales used in the questionnaire (SAS and SASRQ scales)ResultsThe population sample was 473 people.Analyzing the results of the SAS scale, 26.5% of the sample had anxiety symptoms in a normal range, 44.3% had mild-moderate anxiety levels, 24.4% marked-severe anxiety and 4, 9% had extreme anxiety levels.The SARQ questionnaire assesses the presence of an acute stress disorder. In our study, 31.6% of those surveyed had this type of disorder.ConclusionsImmediate interventions and support for health professionals are essential to improve psychological resilience and avoid the appearance of mental health problems.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
Grief during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional online survey in university students
Authors: Soares M.J. , Pereira D. , Amaral A.P. , Azevedo J. , Bos S. , Pereira A.T. , Madeira N. , Macedo A. 
Published: September 2022

IntroductionAlmost 5 million people worldwide have lost their lives due to SARS-CoV-2 (source: WHO coronavirus (COVID-19) dashboard, data of 1.10.2021; https://covid19.who.int/) and therefore, globally, there is an increase of people in grief due to the death of a significant other.ObjectivesTo study psychological correlates of grief during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods591 university students, with a mean age of 23.84±7.95 years (range 18-65 years; 76.8% women; 91.2% Portuguese) completed an online questionnaire during the second COVID-19 confinement (from 15.02 to 13.03.2021), with sociodemographic questions, the Pandemic Stress Index, the Mental Health Inventory, Insomnia Scale, questions on physical/ psychological health, and social isolation.ResultsStudents bereaving the death of a significant other (n=93, 15.7%; n=25, 26.9% reported cause was SARS-CoV-2; time since death: < 3 months to 1-year), compared to those who did not (n= 498; 84.3%), described poorer psychological health, higher psychological distress (depression, anxiety, lack of control) and sleep difficulties, higher levels of stress (higher impact of COVID pandemic in daily life, and higher behavior changes in response to COVID-19) and more social isolation.ConclusionsCOVID-19 pandemic-related stress is a source of additional stress for bereaved students. Grief is also associated with social isolation, poor mental health (depression, anxiety, lack of control) and sleep difficulties. Screening efforts, guidance, and counseling from professionals of mental health care, primary health care, and universities health care services during and after the COVID-19 pandemic could be extremely beneficial for bereaved students, particularly for those at higher risk of developing prolonged grief disorder.DisclosureNo significant relationships.