9 results
Design of a homelessness-focused suicide prevention program
- F. Calvo, C. Giralt, R. Alfranca, X. Solench-Arco, I. Forcada, S. Font-Mayolas
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 67 / Issue S1 / April 2024
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 27 August 2024, p. S780
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Introduction
This project proposes a program for the promotion of mental health and prevention of suicidal behavior among individuals experiencing homelessness, with the aim of reducing suicidal ideation and suicide mortality within this vulnerable population.
ObjectivesThe project aims to implement an evidence-based program to reduce suicidal ideation and suicide mortality among homeless individuals. This will be achieved through two phases: a review of scientific literature and the development of the program in collaboration with experts and homeless individuals.
MethodsThe first phase of the project involved a review of scientific literature to identify the most effective content and programs for improving mental health and preventing suicide. These findings were adapted for application in the program and for dissemination to professionals who will directly engage with individuals experiencing homelessness.
In the second phase, the program content was designed in collaboration with experts and validated through the input of educational professionals. Additionally, individuals experiencing homelessness actively participated in the creation of materials and the definition of the approach to be utilized. Subsequently, a four-hour training was provided to professionals working in specialized homeless shelters to guide groups of individuals experiencing homelessness.
ResultsThe program consists of the following components:
- Training and Awareness: Workshops and campaigns to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide.
- Early Detection and Risk Assessment: Staff training in recognizing suicide indicators and risk assessment protocols.
- Psychological and Social Interventions: Crisis teams, individual and group therapy.
- Access to Services: Mobile mental health clinics and collaborations with healthcare professionals.
- Ongoing Support and Monitoring: Temporary housing programs and support groups.
ConclusionsThe proposed program seeks to mitigate the risk of suicide among individuals experiencing homelessness through a comprehensive approach. The collaboration of experts and homeless individuals ensures that the solutions are appropriate and effective. The implementation of this program has the potential to make a significant difference in promoting mental health and preventing suicide within this vulnerable population.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Suicidal behavior in homeless population and its relationship with experienced aggressions: A seven-year longitudinal study.
- F. Calvo, R. Alfranca, X. Solench-Arco, C. Giralt, I. Forcada, S. Font-Mayolas
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 67 / Issue S1 / April 2024
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 27 August 2024, p. S349
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Introduction
Suicide is a serious and complex public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Among the most vulnerable populations are homeless individuals (HIs), whose suicide rate is significantly higher than that of the general population.
ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to analyze mortality and suicidal behavior in a cohort of HIs during a seven-year follow-up. Additionally, the study sought to identify variables linked to mortality in this population.
MethodsThe study was conducted in the province of Girona, Spain, and included 154 HIs who were literally experiencing homelessness. Self-report questionnaires were used to gather sociodemographic data, assess suicide risk, and measure the severity of substance dependence. The follow-up was carried out between 2015 and 2022, collecting data on mortality, suicide attempts, episodes of overdose, and violence experienced from public health services (psychiatric and primary health care services).
ResultsDuring the seven-year follow-up, 23 individuals (14.3% of the sample) passed away, with an average age at the time of death of 52.6 years. The main causes of death were cancer, suicide (excluding overdose), and accidental overdose. Methods used for suicide included drug overdose, jumping, and vein slashing. All deceased individuals had scores above the threshold on the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale and had reported previous suicide attempts.
Individuals who experienced violence during the follow-up period exhibited more severe suicidal ideation, more suicide attempts, and more non-lethal overdose episodes. Substance dependence, particularly cocaine dependence and dual pathology, was significantly associated with higher mortality.
ConclusionsThis study reveals a high mortality rate among HIs, especially due to suicide and accidental overdose. The most significant variables related to mortality were suicidal ideation, the number of previous non-lethal overdoses, and substance use disorders, with cocaine dependence being prominent. The results underscore the need for specific prevention and treatment programs to address suicide risk factors and improve the mental health of homeless individuals. The importance of conducting interventions in specialized centers that detect and address suicide risk in this vulnerable population is also emphasized.
Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
The Real World Costs of Asenapine in Manic Episodes in the Manacor Study
- I. Forcada, I. Grande, D. Hidalgo-Mazzei, E. Nieto, C. Saez, M. Mur, E. Vieta
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 30 / Issue S1 / March 2015
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 15 April 2020, p. 1
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Background
Asenapine is the most recent compound that hasbeen FDA- and EMA-approved for treatment of mania. Its efficacy and safety havebeen assessed in placebo-controlled trials, but little is known about itsperformance in routine clinical conditions. The MANACOR study assessed costsassociated with treatment of mania in several hospital settings acrossCatalonia, Spain. As part of the protocol, we compared cost-effectiveness ofasenapine versus other treatment options.
MethodsA combined prospective and retrospective datacollection and analysis was conducted from January 2011 to December 2013following a clinical interview and assessment of manic and depressive symptoms(YMRS, HDRS-17), clinical state (CGI-BP-M), psychosocial functioning (FAST),sexual dysfunction (PRSexDQ) and health resource costs associated withtreatment with asenapine versus other antipsychotics.
Results152 patients from different university hospitalswere included. 53 patients received asenapine and 99 received otherantipsychotics. Considering inpatients (N=117), those treated with asenapinepresented a significantly less severe manic episode (p=0.001), less psychoticsymptoms (p=0.030) and, more comorbid personality disorder (p=0.002). Regardingoutpatients, those treated with asenapine showed significantly less severemanic episode (p=0.046), more previous mixed episodes (p= 0.013) and, moresexual dysfunction at baseline (p=0.036). No significant differences were foundin mean total costs per day.
LimitationsNon-randomized study design.
ConclusionClinicians tended to use asenapine in patientswith less severe manic symptoms but more complex clinical profile, includingmore mixed episodes in the past, concomitant personality disorder, and sexualproblems. Treatment with asenapine was not associated with higher costs when comparedto other options.
Asenapine prescribing patterns in the treatment of manic in- and outpatients: Results from the MANACOR study
- I. Grande, D. Hidalgo-Mazzei, E. Nieto, M. Mur, C. Sàez, I. Forcada, E. Vieta
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- Journal:
- European Psychiatry / Volume 30 / Issue 4 / June 2015
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 15 April 2020, pp. 528-534
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Background:
Asenapine is the most recent compound that has been FDA- and EMA-approved for treatment of mania. Its efficacy and safety have been assessed in placebo-controlled trials, but little is known about its performance in routine clinical conditions. In this study, we compared features of patients treated with adjunctive asenapine or other adjunctive antipsychotics and the costs of the treatment.
Methods:A combined prospective and retrospective data collection and analysis was conducted from January 2011 to December 2013 following a clinical interview and assessment of manic and depressive symptoms (YMRS, HDRS-17), clinical state (CGI-BP-M), psychosocial functioning (FAST), sexual dysfunction (PRSexDQ) and health resource costs associated with treatment with adjunctive asenapine versus other adjunctive antipsychotics.
Results:Hundred and fifty-two patients from different university hospitals were included. Fifty-three patients received adjunctive asenapine and 99 received other adjunctive antipsychotics concomitantly to mood stabilizers. Considering inpatients, those treated with adjunctive asenapine presented a significantly less severe manic episode (P = 0.001), less psychotic symptoms (P = 0.030) and more comorbid personality disorder (P = 0.002). Regarding outpatients, those treated with adjunctive asenapine showed significantly less severe manic episode (P = 0.046), more previous mixed episodes (P = 0.013) and more sexual dysfunction at baseline (P = 0.036). No significant differences were found in mean total costs per day.
Conclusion:Clinicians tended to use adjunctive asenapine in patients with less severe manic symptoms but more complex clinical profile, including more mixed episodes in the past, concomitant personality disorder, and sexual problems. Treatment with adjunctive asenapine was not associated with higher costs when compared to other options.
Undernutrition affects embryo quality of superovulated ewes
- J.A. Abecia, F. Forcada, I. Palacín, L. Sánchez-Prieto, C. Sosa, A. Fernández-Foren, A. Meikle
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To determine the effect of undernutrition on embryo production and quality in superovulated sheep, 45 ewes were allocated into two groups to be fed diets that provided 1.5 (control, C; n = 20) or 0.5 (low nutrition, L; n = 25) times daily requirements for maintenance, from oestrous synchronization with intravaginal sponges to embryo collection. Embryos were collected 7 days after the onset of oestrus (day 0). Low nutrition resulted in lower live weight and body condition at embryo collection (P < 0.05). Diet (P < 0.01) and day of sampling (P < 0.001) significantly affected plasma non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and insulin concentrations. Plasma leptin concentrations decreased on day 7 only in L ewes. A significant effect of dietary treatment (P < 0.05) and day (P < 0.0001) was observed on plasma insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I concentrations. The number of recovered oocytes and embryos did not differ between the groups (L: 15.4 ± 0.4; C: 12.4 ± 0.4). Recovery rate was lower (P < 0.05) in the L (60%) than in the C group (73%). The total number of embryos and number of viable-transferable embryos (5.0 ± 0.3 and 3.4 ± 0.3 embryos, respectively) of the L group were lower (P < 0.1) when compared with controls (8.4 ± 0.4 and 6.2 ± 0.4 embryos, respectively). Undernutrition during the period of superovulation and early embryonic development reduced total and viable number of embryos. These effects might be mediated by disruption of endocrine homeostasis, oviduct environment and/or oocyte quality.
Persistence of cognitive impairment and its negative impact on psychosocial functioning in lithium-treated, euthymic bipolar patients: a 6-year follow-up study
- E. Mora, M. J. Portella, I. Forcada, E. Vieta, M. Mur
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- Journal:
- Psychological Medicine / Volume 43 / Issue 6 / June 2013
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 31 August 2012, pp. 1187-1196
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Background
Previous cross-sectional studies report that cognitive impairment is associated with poor psychosocial functioning in euthymic bipolar patients. There is a lack of long-term studies to determine the course of cognitive impairment and its impact on functional outcome.
MethodA total of 54 subjects were assessed at baseline and 6 years later; 28 had DSM-IV TR bipolar I or II disorder (recruited, at baseline, from a Lithium Clinic Program) and 26 were healthy matched controls. They were all assessed with a cognitive battery tapping into the main cognitive domains (executive function, attention, processing speed, verbal memory and visual memory) twice over a 6-year follow-up period. All patients were euthymic (Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score lower than 8 and Young mania rating scale score lower than 6) for at least 3 months before both evaluations. At the end of follow-up, psychosocial functioning was also evaluated by means of the Functioning Assessment Short Test.
ResultsRepeated-measures multivariate analysis of covariance showed that there were main effects of group in the executive domain, in the inhibition domain, in the processing speed domain, and in the verbal memory domain (p<0.04). Among the clinical factors, only longer illness duration was significantly related to slow processing (p=0.01), whereas strong relationships were observed between impoverished cognition along time and poorer psychosocial functioning (p<0.05).
ConclusionsExecutive functioning, inhibition, processing speed and verbal memory were impaired in euthymic bipolar out-patients. Although cognitive deficits remained stable on average throughout the follow-up, they had enduring negative effects on psychosocial adaptation of patients.
The science of EChO
- Giovanna Tinetti, James Y-K. Cho, Caitlin A. Griffith, Olivier Grasset, Lee Grenfell, Tristan Guillot, Tommi T. Koskinen, Julianne I. Moses, David Pinfield, Jonathan Tennyson, Marcell Tessenyi, Robin Wordsworth, Alan Aylward, Roy van Boekel, Angioletta Coradini, Therese Encrenaz, Ignas Snellen, Maria R. Zapatero-Osorio, Jeroen Bouwman, Vincent Coudé du Foresto, Mercedes Lopez-Morales, Ingo Mueller-Wodarg, Enric Pallé, Franck Selsis, Alessandro Sozzetti, Jean-Philippe Beaulieu, Thomas Henning, Michael Meyer, Giuseppina Micela, Ignasi Ribas, Daphne Stam, Mark Swain, Oliver Krause, Marc Ollivier, Emanuele Pace, Bruce Swinyard, Peter A.R. Ade, Nick Achilleos, Alberto Adriani, Craig B. Agnor, Cristina Afonso, Carlos Allende Prieto, Gaspar Bakos, Robert J. Barber, Michael Barlow, Peter Bernath, Bruno Bézard, Pascal Bordé, Linda R. Brown, Arnaud Cassan, Céline Cavarroc, Angela Ciaravella, Charles Cockell, Athéna Coustenis, Camilla Danielski, Leen Decin, Remco De Kok, Olivier Demangeon, Pieter Deroo, Peter Doel, Pierre Drossart, Leigh N. Fletcher, Matteo Focardi, Francois Forget, Steve Fossey, Pascal Fouqué, James Frith, Marina Galand, Patrick Gaulme, Jonay I. González Hernández, Davide Grassi, Matt J. Griffin, Ulrich Grözinger, Manuel Guedel, Pactrick Guio, Olivier Hainaut, Robert Hargreaves, Peter H. Hauschildt, Kevin Heng, David Heyrovsky, Ricardo Hueso, Pat Irwin, Lisa Kaltenegger, Patrick Kervella, David Kipping, Geza Kovacs, Antonino La Barbera, Helmut Lammer, Emmanuel Lellouch, Giuseppe Leto, Mercedes Lopez Morales, Miguel A. Lopez Valverde, Manuel Lopez-Puertas, Christophe Lovi, Antonio Maggio, Jean-Pierre Maillard, Jesus Maldonado Prado, Jean-Baptiste Marquette, Francisco J. Martin-Torres, Pierre Maxted, Steve Miller, Sergio Molinari, David Montes, Amaya Moro-Martin, Olivier Mousis, Napoléon Nguyen Tuong, Richard Nelson, Glenn S. Orton, Eric Pantin, Enzo Pascale, Stefano Pezzuto, Ennio Poretti, Raman Prinja, Loredana Prisinzano, Jean-Michel Réess, Ansgar Reiners, Benjamin Samuel, Jorge Sanz Forcada, Dimitar Sasselov, Giorgio Savini, Bruno Sicardy, Alan Smith, Lars Stixrude, Giovanni Strazzulla, Gautam Vasisht, Sandrine Vinatier, Serena Viti, Ingo Waldmann, Glenn J. White, Thomas Widemann, Roger Yelle, Yuk Yung, Sergey Yurchenko
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- Journal:
- Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union / Volume 6 / Issue S276 / October 2010
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 10 November 2011, pp. 359-370
- Print publication:
- October 2010
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The science of extra-solar planets is one of the most rapidly changing areas of astrophysics and since 1995 the number of planets known has increased by almost two orders of magnitude. A combination of ground-based surveys and dedicated space missions has resulted in 560-plus planets being detected, and over 1200 that await confirmation. NASA's Kepler mission has opened up the possibility of discovering Earth-like planets in the habitable zone around some of the 100,000 stars it is surveying during its 3 to 4-year lifetime. The new ESA's Gaia mission is expected to discover thousands of new planets around stars within 200 parsecs of the Sun. The key challenge now is moving on from discovery, important though that remains, to characterisation: what are these planets actually like, and why are they as they are?
In the past ten years, we have learned how to obtain the first spectra of exoplanets using transit transmission and emission spectroscopy. With the high stability of Spitzer, Hubble, and large ground-based telescopes the spectra of bright close-in massive planets can be obtained and species like water vapour, methane, carbon monoxide and dioxide have been detected. With transit science came the first tangible remote sensing of these planetary bodies and so one can start to extrapolate from what has been learnt from Solar System probes to what one might plan to learn about their faraway siblings. As we learn more about the atmospheres, surfaces and near-surfaces of these remote bodies, we will begin to build up a clearer picture of their construction, history and suitability for life.
The Exoplanet Characterisation Observatory, EChO, will be the first dedicated mission to investigate the physics and chemistry of Exoplanetary Atmospheres. By characterising spectroscopically more bodies in different environments we will take detailed planetology out of the Solar System and into the Galaxy as a whole.
EChO has now been selected by the European Space Agency to be assessed as one of four M3 mission candidates.
X-exoplanets: an X-ray and EUV database for exoplanets
- J. Sanz-Forcada, D. García-Álvarez, A. Velasco, E. Solano, I. Ribas, G. Micela, A. Pollock
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- Journal:
- Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union / Volume 5 / Issue S264 / August 2009
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 26 February 2010, pp. 478-483
- Print publication:
- August 2009
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Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) and X-ray emission is of great importance in several phenomena related to the formation of planetary systems and the atmospheres of planets. The atmospheric composition, and the mass of an exoplanet, are partly dependent on the X-ray and EUV radiation received during the first stages of formation and even during main sequence of the star. Biological life developing on exoplanets would depend severely on the high energy radiation arriving from its parent star.
Here we present a database of the X-ray and EUV emission of all the stars currently known to host exoplanets. The archive is public and accessible through the Spanish Virtual Observatory (SVO). The database gives the user the option to download observed X-rays and EUV spectra. Synthetic spectra covering the spectral range 1–912 Å are also available (present day telescopes do not give access to the EUV range at λ > 180 Å). These spectra are created using coronal models after fitting observed spectra.
Effect of exogenous melatonin on the ovary, the embryo and the establishment of pregnancy in sheep
- J. A. Abecia, F. Forcada, A. Casao, I. Palacín
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Administration of melatonin to advance the breeding season in sheep has been widely used, since this hormone conveys the photoperiodic signal to the reproductive neuroendocrine axis. An increased lambing percentage has been reported following such treatment during anoestrus, which could be mediated through a higher rate of embryonic survival, either by an improvement in luteal function or by a reduction in the antiluteolytic mechanisms. The aim of this article is to review the body of knowledge on the effect of melatonin on the ovine ovary, the embryo and the establishment of pregnancy. Some studies using synchronized ewes have found that melatonin treatments during anoestrus do not improve ovulation rate by modifying the timing of follicle emergence, but increasing the number of ovulatory follicles by decreasing the atresia of medium and large follicles. On the other hand, the addition of melatonin to the in vitro maturation medium does not improve oocyte maturation rate in oocytes from sheep ovaries recovered either in anoestrus or in the breeding season. However, a luteotrophic effect of melatonin at either short or medium term has been reported. We have recently observed that melatonin implants tend to improve the survival of embryos collected from ewes after superovulation in anoestrus. More specifically, melatonin induced a significant reduction of the number and rate of non-viable (degenerate and retarded) embryos. Preliminary data from our laboratory suggest that the uterine sensitivity to progesterone – in terms of progesterone receptor expression – of superovulated ewes could be reduced by melatonin treatment. It can be concluded that the success of exogenous melatonin as a means to improve lamb production of sheep is due, at least in part, to an improvement of luteal support and embryonic survival.