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We provide an assessment of the Infinity Two fusion pilot plant (FPP) baseline plasma physics design. Infinity Two is a four-field period, aspect ratio $A = 10$, quasi-isodynamic stellarator with improved confinement appealing to a max-$J$ approach, elevated plasma density and high magnetic fields ($ \langle B\rangle = 9$ T). Here $J$ denotes the second adiabatic invariant. At the envisioned operating point ($800$ MW deuterium-tritium (DT) fusion), the configuration has robust magnetic surfaces based on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equilibrium calculations and is stable to both local and global MHD instabilities. The configuration has excellent confinement properties with small neoclassical transport and low bootstrap current ($|I_{bootstrap}| \sim 2$ kA). Calculations of collisional alpha-particle confinement in a DT FPP scenario show small energy losses to the first wall (${\lt}1.5 \,\%$) and stable energetic particle/Alfvén eigenmodes at high ion density. Low turbulent transport is produced using a combination of density profile control consistent with pellet fueling and reduced stiffness to turbulent transport via three-dimensional shaping. Transport simulations with the T3D-GX-SFINCS code suite with self-consistent turbulent and neoclassical transport predict that the DT fusion power$P_{{fus}}=800$ MW operating point is attainable with high fusion gain ($Q=40$) at volume-averaged electron densities $n_e\approx 2 \times 10^{20}$ m$^{-3}$, below the Sudo density limit. Additional transport calculations show that an ignited ($Q=\infty$) solution is available at slightly higher density ($2.2 \times 10^{20}$ m$^{-3}$) with $P_{{fus}}=1.5$ GW. The magnetic configuration is defined by a magnetic coil set with sufficient room for an island divertor, shielding and blanket solutions with tritium breeding ratios (TBR) above unity. An optimistic estimate for the gas-cooled solid breeder designed helium-cooled pebble bed is TBR $\sim 1.3$. Infinity Two satisfies the physics requirements of a stellarator fusion pilot plant.
The selection, design and optimization of a suitable blanket configuration for an advanced high-field stellarator concept is seen as a key feasibility issue and has been incorporated as a vital and necessary part of the Infinity Two fusion pilot plant physics basis. The focus of this work was to identify a baseline blanket which can be rapidly deployed for Infinity Two while also maintaining flexibility and opportunities for higher performing concepts later in development. Results from this analysis indicate that gas-cooled solid breeder designs such as the helium-cooled pebble bed (HCPB) are the most promising concepts, primarily motivated by the neutronics performance at applicable blanket build depths, and the relatively mature technology basis. The lithium lead (PbLi) family of concepts, particularly the dual-cooled lithium lead, offer a compelling alternative to solid blanket concepts as they have synergistic developmental pathways while simultaneously mitigating much of the technical risk of those designs. Homogenized three-dimensional neutronics analysis of the Infinity Two configuration indicates that the HCPB achieves an adequate tritium breeding ratio (TBR) (1.30 which enables sufficient margin at low engineering fidelity), and near appropriate shielding of the magnets (average fast fluence of 1.3 ${\times}$ 10$^{18}$ n cm$^{-2}$ per full-power year). The thermal analysis indicates that reasonably high thermal efficiencies (greater than 30 %) are readily achievable with the HCPB paired with a simple Rankine cycle using reheat. Finally, the tritium fuel cycle analysis for Infinity Two shows viability, with anticipated operational inventories of less than one kilogram (approximately 675 g) and a required TBR (TBR$_{\textrm {req}}$) of less than 1.05 to maintain fuel self-sufficiency (approximately 1.023 for a driver blanket with no inventory doubling). Although further optimization and engineering design are still required, at the physics basis stage all initial targets have been met for the Infinity Two configuration.
Cannabis use and familial vulnerability to psychosis have been associated with social cognition deficits. This study examined the potential relationship between cannabis use and cognitive biases underlying social cognition and functioning in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP), their siblings, and controls.
Methods
We analyzed a sample of 543 participants with FEP, 203 siblings, and 1168 controls from the EU-GEI study using a correlational design. We used logistic regression analyses to examine the influence of clinical group, lifetime cannabis use frequency, and potency of cannabis use on cognitive biases, accounting for demographic and cognitive variables.
Results
FEP patients showed increased odds of facial recognition processing (FRP) deficits (OR = 1.642, CI 1.123–2.402) relative to controls but not of speech illusions (SI) or jumping to conclusions (JTC) bias, with no statistically significant differences relative to siblings. Daily and occasional lifetime cannabis use were associated with decreased odds of SI (OR = 0.605, CI 0.368–0.997 and OR = 0.646, CI 0.457–0.913 respectively) and JTC bias (OR = 0.625, CI 0.422–0.925 and OR = 0.602, CI 0.460–0.787 respectively) compared with lifetime abstinence, but not with FRP deficits, in the whole sample. Within the cannabis user group, low-potency cannabis use was associated with increased odds of SI (OR = 1.829, CI 1.297–2.578, FRP deficits (OR = 1.393, CI 1.031–1.882, and JTC (OR = 1.661, CI 1.271–2.171) relative to high-potency cannabis use, with comparable effects in the three clinical groups.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest increased odds of cognitive biases in FEP patients who have never used cannabis and in low-potency users. Future studies should elucidate this association and its potential implications.
Knowledge of Ascophyllum nodosum extracts (ANEs) is still limited to avocado ‘Hass’ in the tropics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two ANEs application methods (foliar v. drench) at four different doses (0, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 ml/l) on the physiological response of three different avocado stages (seedlings and young and adult trees). Foliar or drench ANEs applications were performed monthly for all plants for 16 weeks. The evaluated variables were recorded at 4 and 20 weeks after the start of treatment (WAT). The results showed that ANEs can be applied to the drench or foliar method at doses ≥5 ml/l in the different growth stages evaluated. In seedlings, foliar or drench ANEs applications increased total dry weight (34.5 and 57.9 g for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) and stomatal conductance (gs) (380 and 205 mmol/m2s for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) at 20 WAT. In young trees, both application methods also improved growing index (88.6 and 102 cm for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) and gs (516 and 636 mmol/m2s for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) at the last sampling point. Adult trees showed that foliar or drench applications at higher doses also caused an increase in fruit yield (3.4 and 8.7 kg/tree for 0 and ≥5 ml/l, respectively) at 20 WAT. In conclusion, the use of foliar and soil ANEs applications at higher doses (≥5 ml/l) can be considered for integrated crop management of ‘Hass’ avocado.
Threatened preterm labor (TPL) represents an adverse prenatal event that can impact maternal mental health in the long term. Additionally, this prenatal event can disrupt fetal neurodevelopment, primarily during the third trimester of pregnancy when neuronal connections in the fetus are established. Indeed, infants born following TPL exhibit delayed communication and socio-individual skills at 6 months of age, regardless of prematurity. Furthermore, maternal mental health during the postpartum period can also influence the offspring’s psychomotor development.
Objectives
The aim of this study is to examine the impact of maternal psychopathology on psychomotor development trajectories in infants born after a TPL from 6 to 30 months of age.
Methods
This prospective cohort study recruited 117 mother–child pairs who suffered from a TPL. Psychomotor assessment was performed at 6 and 30 months of age using the communication and socio-individual subscales of Ages & Stages Questionnaires for psychomotor development. A regression model was carried out, including gestational age at birth, maternal anxiety trait, maternal history of psychological traumas, prenatal and postnatal maternal depression, anxiety, and cortisol as well as parenting stress as predictors.
Results
Increased communication delays were associated with higher maternal anxiety levels (p < 0.001), elevated maternal depression scores (p= .0003), and increased cortisol levels (p = .004) during postpartum. Similarly, elevated cortisol levels after 6 months postpartum were predictive of increased Personal-Social delays (p = .0018).
Conclusions
Maternal postpartum psychopathology was the main determinant of the course of psychomotor developmental disturbances. Therefore, infants born after TPL, whose mothers display postpartum psychopathology, should be identified and considered for psychological treatment to improve psychomotor delays in infants.
Infants born preterm usually show a Preterm Behavioural Phenotype, which includes mixed symptomatology characterized by lack of attention, anxiety and social difficulties, with a 3-4 times greater risk of disorders in further childhood. Critically, this behavioural pattern is also observed in infants born after a threated preterm labour (TPL), regardless of the presence of prematurity. It is known that the course of this Preterm Behavioural Phenotype shows high variability. Nevertheless, the predictors of this Preterm Behavioural Phenotype prognosis remain unknown.
Objectives
This study aimed to explore the predictors of change of Preterm Behavioural Phenotype symptomatology during preschool ages in order to improve prognosis.
Methods
In this prospective cohort study, 117 mother–child pairs who experienced TPL were recruited. Preterm Behavioural Phenotype symptoms were assessed at age 2 and 6 using Child Behaviour Checklist. Gestational age at birth, maternal anxiety trait, maternal history of psychological traumas, prenatal and postnatal maternal depression, anxiety, and cortisol as well as parenting stress were included as predictors in a regression model.
Results
Whereas increased internalizing problems were associated with a previous trauma history (p = .003), increased externalizing symptoms were linked to prenatal and postnatal maternal anxiety (p = .004 and p = .018, respectively).
Conclusions
Identifying modifiable risk factors, such as the history of maternal traumas and anxiety at TPL diagnosis and postpartum is recommendable to enhance better prognosis of Preterm Behavioural Phenotype in the offspring.
Emotional dysregulation are considered early manifestations of neuropsychiatric disorders. Recent research has shown that a threatened preterm labour (TPL) represents an adverse prenatal event that involves temperament disturbances, even in absence of prematurity. Thus, full-term TPL infants at 6 months of age are characterized by lower positive affect, higher negative affect, and worse emotional regulation relative to a full-term non-TPL control group.
Objectives
The aim of this study is to explore the predictors of change of emotional infant competences.
Methods
This prospective cohort study recruited mothers who suffered from a TPL. Infants’ temperament assessment was performed at 6 and 30 months of age using the Rothbart Behaviour Questionnaires, examining positive affectivity/surgency, negative emotionality, and orienting and emotional regulatory capacity. A regression model was carried out, including gestational age at birth, maternal anxiety trait, maternal history of psychological traumas, prenatal and postnatal maternal depression, anxiety, and cortisol as well as parenting stress as predictors.
Results
Increased positive affectivity was related with lower paternal stress (p = .044). Maternal history of trauma and parenting stress was associated with increased negative emotionality (p = .037 and p = .045, respectively). Increased emotional regulation disturbance was linked to low gestational age at birth (p < .001), higher postnatal depression (p = .002), higher prenatal anxiety at TPL diagnosis (p = .039) and higher postnatal anxiety (p = .008).
Conclusions
Therefore, maternal previous traumas, maternal psychopathology from pregnancy to postpartum as well as parenting stress should be considered in psychological treatment to improve infant’s emotional competences and prevent subsequent neuropsychiatric disorders.
Cognitive reserve (CR) refers to the ability of the brain to cope with damage or pathology. In bipolar disorder (BD), it has been seen that the effects of the disease may potentially reduce CR, thus compromising cognitive outcomes. This concept takes on special relevance in late life in BD, due to the increased risk of cognitive decline because of the accumulative effects of the disease and the potential effects of aging. Therefore, we believe that CR may be a protective factor against cognitive decline in older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD).
Objectives
The aim of this study was to study the CR in OABD compared with healthy controls (HC) and to analyze its association with psychosocial functioning and cognitive performance.
Methods
A sample of euthymic OABD, defined as patients over 50 years old, and HC were included. CR was assessed using the CRASH scale. Differences in demographic, clinical, and cognitive variables between patients and HC were analyzed by t-test or X2 as appropriated. Lineal simple and multiple regressions analyses were used to study the association of CR and several clinical variables with functional and cognitive performance.
Results
A total of 83 participants (42 OABD and 41 HC) were included. Compared to HC, OABD exhibited poorer cognitive performance (p<0.001), psychosocial functioning (p<0.001) and lower CR (p<0.001). Within the patient’s group, the linear simple regression analysis revealed that CR was associated with psychosocial functioning (β=-2.16; p=0.037), attention (β= 3.03; p=0.005) and working memory (β = 2.98; p=0.005) while no clinical factors were associated. Age and CR were associated with processing speed and verbal memory, but after applying multiple regression model, only the effect of age remained significant (β =-2.26; p= 0.030, and β =-2.23; p= 0.032 respectively). CR, age, and number of episodes were related to visual memory, but the multiple regression showed that only age (β = -2.37; p= 0.023) and CR (β = 3.99; p<0.001) were associated. Regarding executive functions only the number of manic episodes were significant. CR and age at onset were associated with visuospatial ability, but multiple regression only showed association of CR (β =2.23; p=0.032). Other clinical factors such as number of depressive or hypomanic episodes, illness duration, admissions, type of BD, and psychotic symptoms were not associated.
Conclusions
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that studies the CR in a sample of OABD. We demonstrated that OABD had lower CR than HC. Importantly, we observed that CR was associated with cognitive and psychosocial functioning in OABD, even more than disease-related factors. These results suggest the potential protector effect of CR against cognitive impairment, supporting that improving modifiable factors associated with the enhancement of CR can prevent cognitive decline.
Disclosure of Interest
L. Montejo: None Declared, C. Torrent Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00344) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluacio ́n and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), S. Martín: None Declared, A. Ruiz: None Declared, M. Bort: None Declared, G. Fico Grant / Research support from: Fellowship from “La Caixa” Foundation (ID 100010434 - fellowship code LCF/BQ/DR21/11880019), V. Oliva: None Declared, M. De Prisco: None Declared, J. Sanchez-Moreno Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00060) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluacio ́n and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER),, E. Jimenez Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00060)integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluacio ́n and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER),, A. Martinez-Aran: None Declared, E. Vieta Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI18/ 00805, PI21/00787) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and cofinanced by the ISCIIISubdireccio ́n General de Evaluacio ́n and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); the Instituto de Salud Carlos III; the CIBER of Mental Health (CIBERSAM); the Secretaria d’Universitats i Recerca del Departament d’Economia i Coneixement (2017 SGR 1365), the CERCA Programme, and the Departament de Salut de la Generalitat de Catalunya for the PERIS grant SLT006/17/00357; the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (EU.3.1.1. Understanding health, wellbeing and disease: Grant No 754907 and EU.3.1.3. Treating and managing disease: Grant No 945151)., B. Sole: None Declared
In recent years, research has focused on the older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD), aged 50 years and over, a constantly growing population due to the increased of life expectancy. Actually, some authors suggest that these individuals constitute a distinct subtype with a specific and different needs such as seen in epidemiologic, clinical and cognitive features. Further research has revealed significant differences between females and males with BD in clinical and cognitive variables in middle-aged and young patients, but this topic among OABD population remains unclear.
Objectives
The aim of this study is to identify the distinctive profile in clinical, functional and neurocognitive variables between females and males in OABD.
Methods
A sample of OABD and Healthy Controls (HC) were included. Euthymic patients or in partial remission were included. Neurocognition was measured with a battery of tests that included premorbid intelligence quotient, working memory, verbal and visual memory, processing speed, language and executive functions. Independent t-test and Chi-squared test analysis were performed as appropriated.
Results
According to the analysis, statistically significant differences were seen between females and males. A more impaired cognitive profile is observed in women. They performed worse in the subscales of Arithmetic (F= 6.728, p = <0.001), forward digits (F= 0.936, p= 0.019) and Total Digits (F= 1.208, p= 0.019) of the WAIS-III, in the Stroop Color Word Test, color reading (F= 0.130, p= < 0.001), in the Continuous Performance Test, block change measure (F= 2.059, p= 0.037), in the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure-copy (F= 0.005, p= 0.029) and in the Boston Naming Test (F= 0.011, p= 0.024). Nor significant differences were found in clinical neither in psychosocial functioning variables.
Conclusions
In view of the following results, and since no differences were observed between women and men in terms of clinical and functional outcomes, it could be said that the differences observed in cognition cannot be explained by disease-related factors. Furthermore, these results highlight the need to develop a gender-specific cognitive interventions in OABD population. In this way, we could have an impact on the course of the illness to reach a better quality of life.
Disclosure of Interest
S. Martín-Parra: None Declared, C. Torrent Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00344) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIIISubdireccion General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), A. Ruiz: None Declared, M. Bort: None Declared, G. Fico Grant / Research support from: Fellowship from “La Caixa” Foundation (ID 100010434 - fellowship code LCF/BQ/DR21/11880019), V. Oliva: None Declared, M. Prisco: None Declared, J. Sanchez-Moreno Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00060) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), E. Jimenez Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI20/00060) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and co-financed by the ISCIII-Subdireccion General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER), A. Martinez-Aran: None Declared, E. Vieta Grant / Research support from: Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (PI18/ 00805, PI21/00787) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I+D+I and cofinanced by the ISCIII Subdirección General de Evaluación and the Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER); the Instituto de Salud Carlos III; the CIBER of Mental Health (CIBERSAM); the Secretaria d’Universitats i Recerca del Departament d’Economia i Coneixement (2017 SGR 1365), the CERCA Programme, and the Departament de Salut de la Generalitat de Catalunya for the PERIS grant SLT006/17/00357; the European Union Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (EU.3.1.1. Understanding health, wellbeing and disease: Grant No 754907 and EU.3.1.3. Treating and managing disease: Grant No 945151), B. Sole: None Declared, L. Montejo: None Declared
Epilepsy is one of the most common serious brain illness, with symptoms influenced by multiple risk factors and a strong genetic predisposition, rather than having a single expression and cause¹. Neuropsychiatric symptoms in epilepsy can encompass manifestations such as mood alterations, anxiety, sleep disturbances, psychosis, and behavioral disorders. While the motor and sensory manifestations of epileptic seizures are widely recognized, neuropsychiatric symptoms accompanying epilepsy are often underestimated. Therefore, it is essential to understand the most prevalent epidemiological profile of these patients to improve the diagnosis and management of these symptoms.
Objectives
Our goal was to evaluate the neuropsychiatric behavior of epilepsy patients in Brazilian over the past 3 years through hospitalization data in order to outline an epidemiological and behavioral profile.
Methods
A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted on hospitalizations of individuals simultaneously diagnosed with epilepsy, schizotypal and delusional disorders, and mood disorders in all five regions of Brazil (South, Southeast, Midwest, North, and Northeast) between February 2020 and December 2022. Data from January 2020 were not available. The data used were collected through the Department of Health Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) in the “Hospital Information System of SUS” section, gathering information regarding the nature of care, age range, gender, and ethnicity of the patients.
Results
The analysis covers the years 2020 to 2022, totaling 503,045 hospitalizations. In 2022, the highest number of cases occurred (≈ 37.55%), followed by 2021 (≈ 33.62%) and 2020 (≈ 28.81%). Urgent hospitalizations represented ≈ 90.85% of the total. The most affected age group was 30 to 39 years old (≈ 18.30%). Men were more affected than women (≈ 52.03% and ≈ 47.96%, respectively), and Caucasians accounted for ≈ 36.07% of the hospitalizations. The average length of stay was 19.1 days, and the mortality rate was 1.4%.
Conclusions
Thus, there is a gradual and annual increase in the number of hospitalizations during the observed period. While there is a minimal disparity between the affected genders, it is evident that the profile of male, caucasian, and adult patients is the most prevalent. Moreover, the predominantly urgent nature of hospitalizations points to an alarming scenario regarding this issue. From the analysis of the data obtained in the study, there is a clear need for interventions capable of reducing the prevalence of hospitalizations for neuropsychiatric symptoms in epilepsy patients in Brazil.
Neuropsychiatric disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, as seen in cases such as depression, anxiety, bipolar mood disorder and schizophrenia, which can be developed or exacerbated by the use of psychoactive substances. Most mental disorders have an early onset, often leading to early and/or permanent disability, increasing the need and cost of healthcare. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the identification of the epidemiological profile of these cases in the South of Brazil in order to enhance the diagnosis and reduce the costs associated with managing these disorders.
Objectives
The present study aimed to analyze statistical data regarding hospitalizations related to mental disorders caused by the use of psychoactive substances and alcohol in the southern region of Brazil, highlighting the pathological scenario and identifying the most prevalent profiles of these disorders in this region.
Methods
A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted on hospitalizations of individuals diagnosed with mental and behavioral disorders due to the use of psychoactive substances and alcohol in the states of the Southern region of Brazil (Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul) between February 2020 and December 2022. Data of January 2020 were not available. The data used were collected through the Department of Health Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) in the “Hospital Information System of SUS” section, gathering information regarding the nature of the care, age range, gender, and ethnicity of the patients.
Results
The study covers the years 2020 to 2022, indicating a total of 81,608 hospitalizations, with the year 2022 having the highest number of cases (≈ 37.13%), followed by 2021 (≈ 33.30%) and 2020 (≈ 29.55%). The states with the highest number of hospitalizations were Rio Grande do Sul (≈ 54.90%), Paraná (≈ 29.29%), and Santa Catarina (≈ 15.79%). Urgent hospitalizations accounted for ≈ 87.29% of the total. The most affected age group was 30 to 39 years old (≈ 25.61%). Men were more affected than women (≈ 81.70% and ≈ 18.28%, respectively). Caucasians accounted for ≈ 64.29% of the hospitalizations. The average length of stay was 20.8 days, and the mortality rate was 0.32%.
Conclusions
There is a clear increase in the number of hospitalizations related to mental disorders caused by the use of psychoactive substances in the period from 2020 to 2022 in the southern region of Brazil, with the highest number of cases in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The most affected population consisted of Caucasian men aged 30 to 39 years old. Furthermore, these results may be related to the increasing trend of psychoactive substance use among the Brazilian population and also the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a period of underreporting due to social isolation.
Sodium oxybate, an effective treatment for narcolepsy-associated daytime sleepiness and cataplexy, has been extensively. Despite its therapeutic benefits, sodium oxybate is not without its risks, and adverse psychiatric effects have been documented. This case report highlights a rare manifestation of sodium oxybate-related secondary mania with psychotic symptoms in a patient with narcolepsy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and managing such adverse events. Additionally, we provide a brief review of similar cases reported in the literature.
Objectives
This report aims to describe the presentation, evaluation, and management of sodium oxybate-induced secondary mania with psychotic symptoms in a patient with narcolepsy. We also discuss the potential mechanisms underlying this adverse reaction and its clinical implications. Furthermore, we summarize findings from previous studies that have reported cases of secondary mania associated with sodium oxybate use.
Methods
We present the case of Mr. X, a 48-year-old male diagnosed with “Narcolepsy with cataplexy,” who had been receiving sodium oxybate treatment for 11 years. He was admitted to the hospital following a mild head injury and the emergence of a manic episode with psychotic features. Comprehensive clinical evaluation, including medical history, toxicology screening, and neuroimaging, was conducted.
Results
Upon evaluation, Mr. X exhibited hyperactivity, restlessnes, grandiose delusions, paranoid delusions related to hospital staff, and decreased need for sleep. Notably, he had been consuming sodium oxybate excessively. Sodium oxybate was discontinued, and low-dose olanzapine was initiated. Within 24 hours, his manic and psychotic symptoms resolved. He admitted to overusing his medication, and his family reported a recent increase in his activity level. A review of the literature revealed similar cases of sodium oxybate-induced secondary mania with psychotic symptoms.
Conclusions
This case underscores the importance of vigilance for psychiatric side effects of sodium oxybate, particularly in patients with a history of substance abuse or potential overuse. Secondary mania associated with medications is a rare but significant clinical entity. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial for patient safety and well-being. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying such reactions and to establish guidelines for their prevention and management.
In recent years, mental health has gained prominence in public health, prompting thorough investigations into psychiatric condition trends. This study conducts a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of hospitalizations for Schizophrenia, Schizotypal, and Delirium Disorders in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) over the past five years. By revealing these patterns, it enhances our understanding of regional mental health dynamics and offers insights for intervention strategies, resource planning, and improved mental healthcare. The ultimate goal is to advance more effective and accessible mental healthcare in RS and beyond.
Objectives
This study aims to analyze the prevalence and epidemiological profile of hospitalizations due to psychiatric disorders to assist in the diagnosis and outcome of affected patients.
Methods
A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted regarding hospitalizations for Schizophrenia, Schizotypal Disorders, and Delirium in the state of RS between January 2018 and November 2022. Data were collected from the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) in the “Hospital Information System of SUS” section, focusing on the nature of care, age group, gender, and ethnicity of the patients. The information was aggregated over the five-year period based on the four mentioned descriptors and subsequently analyzed to establish a profile of hospitalizations during that period.
Results
The analysis spans from 2018 to 2022, encompassing a total of 28,345 hospitalizations. In 2019, there was the highest number of cases (22.21%), followed by 2018 (21.08%). Urgent care admissions constituted 85.34% of the total. The age group most affected was 35 to 39 years (11.8%). Men were more affected than women (60.18%), and the majority of hospitalizations were among the Caucasian ethnicity (75.12%). The average length of stay was 23.7 days, and the mortality rate stood at 0.26%.
Conclusions
The increasing trend in hospitalizations, peaking in 2019, highlights the need for preventive measures. Urgent admissions (85.34%) underscore the demand for accessible mental health resources. Men in the 35 to 39 age group are disproportionately affected, suggesting specific risk factors. The predominance of Caucasian ethnicity emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive care. A longer average length of stay (23.7 days) underscores treatment complexity, while a low mortality rate (0.26%) signals effective medical care. In essence, these findings inform tailored mental health policies to enhance service quality and prioritize patient-centered approaches.
Threatened preterm labour (TPL) is associated with long-lasting neurodevelopmental challenges, independent of prematurity. For instance, it is known that infants born a TPL show delayed communication and socio-individual skills, regardless of the gestational age at birth. Furthermore, TPL constitutes an adverse prenatal event that can induce maternal anxiety or depression, even during postpartum period, which can produce a deleterious effect of the prognosis of infant’s psychomotor development.
Objectives
This study aimed to explore the influence of maternal psychopathology as well as other peripartum variables on the course of psychomotor development in children born after a TPL between the ages of 2 and 6.
Methods
In this prospective cohort study, 117 mother–child pairs who experienced TPL were recruited. Psychomotor development was assessed using the Ages & Stages Questionnaires-Third edition at age 2 and 6. A regression model was carried out, including gestational age at birth, maternal anxiety trait, maternal history of psychological traumas, prenatal and postnatal maternal depression, anxiety, and cortisol as well as parenting stress as predictors.
Results
Low gestational week at birth emerged as the most relevant factor in the course of increased communication delay (p < 0.001). However, parental psychopathology during prenatal or postnatal stages was not a relevant factor in the prognosis of Communication skills or Socio-Individual development.
Conclusions
Gestation age at birth rather than parental psychopathology during peripartum period was the most relevant predictor of the course of psychomotor development between 2 to 6 years of age. Further studies should examine other potential modifiable predictors to moderate the impact of gestational age on psychomotor development.
Forced medication is one of the most frequently used coercive measures in acute mental health units. It is a practice that can lead to physical, psychological and psychopathological consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to implement measures to reduce its use. In this sense, it is interesting to study the variables that can be associated with its use, and thus take measures accordingly.
Objectives
This study attempts to identify the number of forced medication episodes between July 2017 and December 2018 treated in the catchment area of the Mental Health Service at Jerez Hospital. As a secondary objective, it pursues to identify the factors that conducted to the use of forced medication with the intention of being able to reduce the use of these measures.
Methods
A descriptive and retrospective study has been developed reviewing the total number of episodes of forced medication. Patients admitted and discharged from hospital between July 2017 and December 2018 treated in the Mental Health Service at Jerez Hospital. Data were extracted from medical records.
Results
The total number of episodes of forced medication identified was 330. In these episodes, the average age was 41 years, with a predominance of 74% of the male gender. The most used route in the episodes was intramuscular (94.8%), in addition, more than 50% needed the association of two drugs, the most used were haloperidol and olanzapine. The 32.7% of the episodes also required the use of mechanical restraint and 44.2% required the presence of security service.
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Conclusions
We present the descriptive analysis of a further study currently been conducted in hour hospital which means to stablish predictive factors for the use of forced medication. We therefore intend to create patient profile, as well as new measures specifically directed to these factors with which to diminish the use of forced medication.
Smoking prevalence in patients with mental illness ranges between two to 4 times higher than general population. This higher prevalence has a multifactorial origin, and some of the possible causes are still unknown.
They have a higher prevalence of tobacco-associated diseases and higher mortality.
Additionally, these patients have greater difficulty in treating and quitting smoking.
A relationship has been found between severity of mental illness and smoking. Risk of suicide seems to be higher in patients with higher tobacco consumption. Schizophrenia is the mental illness that has been most closely related to smoking, with a prevalence close to 90%.
Objectives
The aim of this work is reviewing the current bibliography referring to smoking treatments for patients with mental illness
Methods
A literature search using electronic manuscripts available in PubMed database published during the last ten years and further description and discussion of a single-patient clinical case
Results
The treatment of tobacco dependence in patients with mental illnesses is sometimes waited until there is psychiatric stability, which can take a long time in those cases with more severe mental disorders, which can have negative physical and psychiatric consequences.
The combined treatment of cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacological treatment is the most effective approach. Nicotine replacement therapy can be useful, while combined use of antidepressants or anxiolytics is also recommended.
Bupropion has shown efficacy. In patients with schizophrenia it does not seem to worsen positive symptomatology, but improving the negative one. It should not be used in patients with bipolar disorder or bulimia.
Varenicline has shown efficacy in the general population, but limitations were established in patients with mental illness, although it is the drug that has shown greater efficacy. However, is not currently available in our country.
Cytisine is a drug with limited number of studies in the psychiatric population but it may be a reasonable treatment alternative.
Conclusions
The prevalence of tobacco use in patients with mental illness is higher than the general population, especially in paranoid schizophrenia. The consequences on physical health and the evolution of psychiatric illness are very relevant. Based on above, a multidisciplinary and coordinated management involving psychiatrists and other specialists in the treatment of these patients should be desirable.
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has produced an unprecedented clinical situation, causing a direct and indirect impact on the physical and mental health of the population. In Spain, between March 15 and June 21 of 2020, it was decreed a home confinement that caused the interruption of the daily life of millions of people. However, there are few studies that analyze the changes produced in psychiatric care in the Emergency Department (ED).
Objectives
To analyze the changes produced in psychiatric emergencies, subanalysing paediatric population, during the first year of the pandemic (COV1/Y-COV1) compared to the previous year (NOCOV/Y-NOCOV1). To analyze the clinical features of patients attended during the lockdown period of the pandemic (LOCK) and compare it to the period of the pandemic after the lockdown (NOLOCK).
Methods
Through the registry of computerized medical records, patients who attended the psychiatric hospital emergency department between 03/01/2019 and 02/28/2021 were identified. We also identified all attendances from 15/03 to 21/06 in 2019 and in 2020 to obtain variables from the lockdown period.
Results
During period of this study, 2694 psychiatric visits made in the ED (1744 patients - 54.3% women, and 69.5% were between 25 and 64 years-), 1537 in NOCOV and 1157 in COV1. Significant differences were found between COV1 and NOCOV in sociodemographic variables, such as employment status and number of offspring. At a clinical level, in COV1, we observed an increase in attendance due to heteroaggressive behaviors, mania, insomnia and problems due to substance use. An increase in the prescription and/or modification of treatment was observed (59.3% vs 54.3%). During COV1, in terms of discharge follow-up in the month following the ED visit, telematic assistance increased (11.4% vs. 5.3%). During the period of study, 282 ED attendances were performed, 153 in Y-NOCOV and 129 in Y-COV1. At a clinical level, during Y-COV1, a decrease in attendances related to substance use was found significant. The sub-analysis carried out for LOCK and NOLOCK yields similar data to those obtained in the COV1 vs. NOCOV1 comparison. During lockdown, the face-to-face follow-up in the month following the ED was significantly lower (39,5% vs 57,1%) regarding telematic follow-up (24,4% vs 5,8%) In this period, an increase of adolescents without previous mental health follow-up was observed (44% LOCK vs. 22% NOLOCK).
Conclusions
Our work supports the hypothesis that the COVID-19 pandemic caused a change in psychiatric care in the ED. It also shows how lockdown changed the attendance in psychiatric emergencies, and also in the later community care attendance. Changes are detected in emergency care for adolescents during the pandemic compared to the previous year. Strikingly, our study does not reflect a quantitative increase in the demand. It would be of interest to continue collecting data after the time of the present project.
Currently, in addition to their frequent use in community medicine, the use of antidepressants is a fundamental pillar of pharmacological treatments used in psychiatry. Due to this frequent use, we must be aware of the possible side effects, in particular the SIADH produced in this clinical case by SSRIs. There are already described cases of this association including other antidepressants and many different types of drugs.
Objectives
To review the current literature on the management of this pathology when it is secondary to the use of frequently used drugs such as SSRIs.
Methods
We report the case of a 64-year-old woman hospitalised in the psychiatric department for malnutrition secondary to unspecified eating disorder (ED). During admission, treatment with sertraline was started with ascending doses up to 100mg, subsequently producing slight edema with the following analytical results: plasma Na: 123 mEq/L (135-145), plasma osmolarity: 250 mOsm/kg (275-300), urinary Na: 174 mEq/L (>40), fulfilling diagnostic criteria for SIADH.
Afterwards, we reduced sertraline until discontinuation and started treatment with water restriction and urea (30 grams/24 hours) during admission and after discharge. During admission, we observed disappearance of the edema and partial improvement of the analytical values (Na:131 mEq/L), which were normalised with home treatment of daily urea.
Results
The precise prevalence of SIADH from the use of SSRIs is unknown, it is known that patients older than 65 are at higher risk of developing severe hyponatraemia in the first 5 weeks after initiation. Similarly, treatment with water and urea restriction, together with discontinuation of SSRIs, appears to be sufficient.
Conclusions
SSRIs can cause SIADH a reversible but potentially life-threatening pathology, and we need to be aware of this possibility especially in the older population and being able to handle it
Fahr’s disease (FD) is a rare disorder consisting of bilateral and symmetrical calcium deposits in basal ganglia and cerebral cortex. These lesions are associated with neurological and psychiatric symptoms such as a rigid hypokinetic syndrome, mood disorders and memory and concentration abnormalities. It can be idiopathic or secondary to endocrine disorders, infectious diseases or mitochondrial myopathies.
Objectives
To highlight the importance of considering organic causes when evaluating patients presenting atypical psychiatric symptoms and claim the role of neuroimaging.
Methods
Case report and non-systematic review of literature: sources obtained from Pubmed database.
Results
A 69-year-old man, native of Syracuse (Italy), was admitted to the Psychiatry Unit in February 2022 presenting behavioural disturbances and irritability. In July 2021 he presented the same symptoms, being mistakenly diagnosed with Bipolar Disease type I. He has no previous psychiatric history. He started with changes in his personality, short-term memory loss, aggressiveness and disorganized behaviour at the age of 66. At admission he was talkative and hyperfamiliar, presenting delusions of grandiosity, exalted affectivity and insomnia. Neurological examination showed short-term memory problems, signs of frontal disinhibition and abnormal glabellar tap sign. Blood tests, CT brain and MRI were performed to rule out organic underlying causes. Neuro-imaging found bilateral and symmetric calcifications in globus pallidus, thalamus and corpus striatum, in favour of FD. Secondary causes (abnormalities in the PTH, vitamin disorders and infectious diseases such as HIV, brucellosis or neurosyphilis) where discarded, allowing us to conclude it was probably a primary case of FD. Valproate was started as a mood stabilizer and anticonvulsant. Genetic tests were indicated.
Conclusions
FD should be considered as a differential diagnosis in the evaluation of psychiatric symptoms, especially when atypical and/or presented with neurological symptoms. The role of neuro-imaging is essential.
age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an ocular disease involving central vision. It is one of the mainreasons of vision loss in people over 50. Seeing non-existing faces or shapes are described in AMD. Symtoms of visualhallucinations that occur as a result of vision loss is known as Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS). These patients haveintact cognition, do not have hallucinations in any other sensory modalities, and retain insight into the unreal nature oftheir hallucinations.
Objectives
the aim of this work is analizing ethiology, demographic characteristics, clinica features and treatment inpatients with AMD and visual hallucinations
Methods
a literature search using electronic manuscripts available in PubMed database published during the last ten years with further description and discussion of a single-patient clinical case.
Results
in different studies in patients diagnosed with AMD, the reported prevalence ranges between 15 up to 39percent. Patients with more significant vision loss may be more likely to experience visual hallucinations. In large caseseries, mean age is 70 to 85 years. Hallucinations can last few minutes or several hours. On average, people experiencethese hallucinations on and off for about 3 years. Those who experience hallucinations tend to see multiple types ofimages, particularly people and faces.The diagnosis of CBS is made when visual hallucinations occur in patients withvision loss in the absence of psychosis, delirium, or other causes.
There is no specific treatment for CBS: optimal ocular care, education and differents techniques to manage hallucinations(changing your lighting conditions and environment, blinking frequently or moving your eyes side-to-side rapidly whilekeeping your head still…). Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, anxiolytics and low-dose of antipsychotics have been used for CBS with positiveeffects in previous reports, but the efficacy of these drugs in the treatment is somewhat questionable and should bereserved for those who exhibit high levels of distress and have not responded to conventional intervention.
Case report: 80-years old woman who presented with a 4 month history of hallucinations and legally blind from AMD. Aworkup for other pathological causes of visual hallucinations was negative.
Conclusions
CBS is an under-recognized and under-reported disorder that involves visual hallucinations in visuallyimpaired individuals. It requires a multidisciplinary approach from neurologists, psychiatrists, general practitioners andophthalmologists. New studies are needed in order to understand its clinical presentation and to improve its management.