Psychiatria Danubina[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
PREPARATION AND DESENSITIZATION IN VIEW OF PERFORMING VIDEO ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHY IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: A CASE SERIES.
Ciccone O, Lepri A, Camanni G … +2 more , Vallasciani M, Elisei S
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982863
EEG recording in children on the autism spectrum is often a challenging task due to their frequent hypersensitivity to even mild sensory stimuli and difficulty coping with novel situations outside of familiar routines. T...
EEG recording in children on the autism spectrum is often a challenging task due to their frequent hypersensitivity to even mild sensory stimuli and difficulty coping with novel situations outside of familiar routines. This article describes the video electroencephalography (EEG) preparation process carried out with five children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), using a structured protocol of gradual exposure and environmental desensitization involving outpatient staff and the presence of parents. The high success rate in both EEG acquisition and patient cooperation underscores the clinical importance of structured preparation and desensitization protocols in facilitating EEG procedures for children and adolescents with ASD. In this study, gradual and playful exposure - anchored in predictable routines and symbolic play - helped modulate sensory input, addressing a core challenge in ASD. The intervention also leveraged the psychological benefits of increased environmental predictability, which plays a crucial role in reducing anxiety driven by uncertainty in individuals on the autism spectrum. Moreover, the active involvement of caregivers likely supported co-regulation and emotional safety, further contributing to the successful outcomes observed. These findings advocate for the integration of individualized, behaviourally informed protocols into routine clinical practice for neurophysiological assessments in children with ASD.
WHICH TRANSITIONAL AGE YOUTH SEEK CARE AT A SECOND-LINE CHILD AND ADOLESCENT OUTPATIENT SERVICE? VULNERABILITIES, ADVERSITIES AND PERSPECTIVES.
Estenne J, Hennebicq T, Morena M … +4 more , Reis J, Marchini S, Delvenne V, Nicolis H
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982862
BACKGROUND: It is known that youth aged 16 to 23 are more vulnerable to mental distress than other age groups. This vulnerability can be explained by several factors such as the high prevalence of mental illnesses, the c...
BACKGROUND: It is known that youth aged 16 to 23 are more vulnerable to mental distress than other age groups. This vulnerability can be explained by several factors such as the high prevalence of mental illnesses, the changes in the environment, the social expectations and so on. Moreover, in this age group the transition between Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) impacts the continuity of care, leading to a negative impact on the prognosis. This article aims to characterize this population based on risk factors, history of care and care plan. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We conducted a retrospective study including patients who attended transition psychiatry consultations between October 2020 and December 2023. Data were collected at a secondary care outpatient service. RESULTS: The sample (n=122) was predominantly female (70.5%, n=86). Referrals were mostly made by psychologists (35.2%, n=43), although many individuals were self-referred (32%, n=39). In most cases, the consultation request came directly from the young person (60.7%, n=74). Regarding previous mental health support, 79.5% (n=97) had already received psychological care at the time of their transition consultation. In terms of risk factors, many participants had been exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACE): 60% (n=69) reported a first-degree family history of psychiatric disorders, 28% (n=33) had experienced sexual abuse, and 37.3% (n=44) had been exposed to domestic violence. Among those who received follow-up care, 19.7% (n=24) were scheduled for planned inpatient care. Psychotherapeutic follow-up was offered to 79.6% of patients, and psychotropic medication was recommended for 68.9%. CONCLUSION: This research highlights the major vulnerability of transition-aged youth (TAY) and reinforces the need for specialized care and continuity between CAMHS and AMHS.
AN UNIVERSITY ORIENTATION EDUCATIONAL PROJECT IN HIGH SCHOOL.
Tavormina D
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982861
During the 2024-2025 school year, the "P. Secco Suardo" Institute in Bergamo organized an educational orientation project for all those students who, having reached the end of their studies, were either afraid of choosin...
During the 2024-2025 school year, the "P. Secco Suardo" Institute in Bergamo organized an educational orientation project for all those students who, having reached the end of their studies, were either afraid of choosing their future path or had no idea what they wanted at all and lived in mental confusion. Orientation is an essential new concept introduced within the educational themes of Europe, which we can no longer do without in our schools.
THE IMPORTANCE OF HOBBIES TO SUPPORT PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT IN BIPOLAR DISORDER TYPE I AND II: 40 CASES-REPORT IN A GP'S EXPERIENCE.
Marinoni M, Soldi R, Boglioni G … +1 more , Tavormina G
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982860
Bipolar disorder in its various forms is a widespread, often poorly treated condition. This observational study highlights how patients with bipolar I and bipolar II disorder can benefit from engaging in hobbies, in addi...
Bipolar disorder in its various forms is a widespread, often poorly treated condition. This observational study highlights how patients with bipolar I and bipolar II disorder can benefit from engaging in hobbies, in addition to their pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments.
CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTING A 1 HOUR WEEKLY WALK ACTIVITY AND ASSESSING SELF-ESTEEM WITHIN RESIDENTIAL PSYCHIATRIC CARE.
Bennert M, Putineanu A, Cnuydt D … +3 more , Coquelet A, Llano LR, Tecco JM
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982859
BACKGROUND: Patients with psychotic disorders often have low levels of physical activity, and there's limited data on implementing exercise programs and systematically evaluating physical health among inpatients. This st...
BACKGROUND: Patients with psychotic disorders often have low levels of physical activity, and there's limited data on implementing exercise programs and systematically evaluating physical health among inpatients. This study, conducted in a closed psychosis unit, aimed to explore the feasibility of a 1-hour weekly walk activity, alongside assessing self-esteem. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: From February 7 to July 11, 2025, patients at the Gaudi unit in Mons, Belgium, specializing in psychotic disorder care, were offered participation in a weekly supervised walk. Out of 64 evaluated inpatients, eligible individuals could choose between a 3 km or 5 km circuit. The study also planned to assess self-esteem using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and to conduct qualitative analysis upon admission. RESULTS: Over 24 weeks, the average walk participation rate was 59.86% (255 out of 426 possible participations). Most preferred the 3 km circuit (75.69%), while fewer chose the 5 km (14.9%) or the 8 km combination (9.41%). However, comprehensive assessments (RSES, qualitative evaluation) were only offered to 12 of the 64 patients. Only 6 completed the qualitative evaluation, and 10 completed the RSES. This low assessment completion rate suggests the evaluations might be too challenging for this population. CONCLUSION: Implementing a weekly walk activity in a closed psychosis unit is feasible. Nevertheless, integrating a study protocol for comprehensive physical and psychological assessments proved challenging. Future projects would require adapting assessment methods to be more realistic for this setting.
A BODY TO NOT FEEL DYSPHORIA IN FEEDING AND EATING DISORDERS: SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC AND CLINICAL CORRELATES OF DYSPHORIA IN FEEDING AND EATING DISORDERS.
Lupattelli I, Moretti P, Raspa V … +2 more , Ragione LD, Tortorella A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982858
BACKGROUND: Food-related problems in Feeding and Eating Disorders (hereafter referred to as eating disorders - EDs) might be considered as the expression of dysfunctional individual and relational patterns based on emoti...
BACKGROUND: Food-related problems in Feeding and Eating Disorders (hereafter referred to as eating disorders - EDs) might be considered as the expression of dysfunctional individual and relational patterns based on emotional and behavioral dysregulation. Dysphoria is a transnosographic syndrome found in a multitude of psychiatric disorders including EDs, our cross-sectional study aims to analyze its presence in Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) to define its socio-demographic, clinical correlates and phenomenological expression in the three types of EDs. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 165 patients were recruited from March 2019 to November 2024. Anamnestic history was collected through a specific form. The Italian version of the Nepean Dysphoria Scale (NDS-I) was used to evaluate Dysphoria. After performing descriptive analyses, one-way ANOVA and Pearson's r test were performed to respectively assess between-group differences and correlations. Significance was defined as p<0.05. RESULTS: AN presented the highest degree of Dysphoria than the three, BED the lowest. Older age, physical illnesses and ongoing medical therapy correlated with lower levels of Dysphoria. A Statistically significant positive correlation was found in smoking habits, association with another psychiatric disorder, especially with anxiety disorder, use of benzodiazepines (BDZ) and use of antipsychotics (AP). CONCLUSIONS: Dysphoria acquires fundamental importance within EDs, possibly having a specific role in the etiology and maintenance of eating behaviors, it might play a core role in this type of mental disorder, with the behavioral aspect aimed at reducing dysphoric anxiety. Understanding these connections could represent a useful tool for the comprehension of EDs, which are increasing and have always represented a great diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
PERSONALITY AND EMOTION REGULATION IN CHRONIC ILLNESS.
Guarino D, Martino G, Juli G … +1 more , Giuseppe MD
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982857
Psychological functioning has a significant impact on the body since and represents a critical component in the management of chronic diseases, potentially affecting their onset, prognosis and trajectory. Chronic conditi...
Psychological functioning has a significant impact on the body since and represents a critical component in the management of chronic diseases, potentially affecting their onset, prognosis and trajectory. Chronic conditions may affect the increase of emotional distress, potentially leading to autonomic function dysregulation of both the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal. The present paper aims to summarize current research on the role of personality and emotion regulation in determining both physical and mental well-being of chronic patients with particular attention to cancer, psoriasis and asthma. Findings highlighted that despite their distinct clinical manifestations, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and psoriasis share important common features. In addition to the physical impact they have on patients, they show meaningful, bidirectional relationships with psychological functions and inner processes. Across these pathologies, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, immature defense mechanisms, and alexithymia were consistently found associated with poorer quality of life, reduced adherence to treatment and, consequently, worse prognoses.
OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH AFFECTIVE DISORDERS IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Pula G, Moretti P, Ritacco I … +4 more , Caramanico G, Filippis G, Magnone R, Tortorella A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982856
BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers (HCWs) face significant occupational stressors that increase their risk of psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. In particular, nurse may experience higher psy...
BACKGROUND: Healthcare workers (HCWs) face significant occupational stressors that increase their risk of psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. In particular, nurse may experience higher psychological distress due to unique workplace demands. However, direct comparisons between nurses and other HCWs within tertiary care hospitals remain limited. This retrospective study aimed to compare work-related stress levels and mental health outcomes in nurses versus other HCWs seeking psychological or psychiatric support through the Occupational Health Service (OHS) of a tertiary care hospital in central Italy. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study analyzing healthcare workers (HCWs) who accessed psychological or psychiatric support through an Occupational Counseling Service (OCS) over a three-year period. Medical records of 155 HCWs who accessed the OHS from January 2022 to December 2024 were reviewed. Sociodemographic, occupational, clinical, and psychometric data were collected. Subgroup analyses compared nurses (n=79) to other professionals (n=76) regarding psychological distress, psychiatric diagnoses, and treatment. Correlations between personal/family psychiatric history and work-related stress were also assessed. RESULTS: Nurses exhibited significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms and anxiety compared to other HCWs. A positive personal and/or family history of anxiety and mood disorders was present in 26.5% of the full cohort and correlated significantly with work-related stress and burnout (p<0.001). Burnout and secondary traumatic stress were prevalent across all groups, although compassion satisfaction remained relatively preserved. CONCLUSIONS: Nurses demonstrated greater vulnerability to affective symptoms and work-related stress compared to other HCWs, underscoring the need for tailored mental health support within occupational health frameworks. Early identification and intervention strategies are crucial to mitigate psychological distress and improve wellbeing among hospital staff.
A MULTICENTRIC OBSERVATIONAL AND EXPLORATORY STUDY ON REFLECTIVE FUNCTIONING AND INTEROCEPTIVE AWARENESS IN INDIVIDUALS WITH EATING DISORDERS.
Raspa V, Guercini M, Lupattelli I … +4 more , Moretti P, Mazzeschi C, Ragione LD, Tortorella A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982855
BACKGROUND: Reflective functioning and interoceptive awareness are core domains in the psychological functioning of individuals with eating disorders (EDs). Alterations in these dimensions may contribute to emotional dys...
BACKGROUND: Reflective functioning and interoceptive awareness are core domains in the psychological functioning of individuals with eating disorders (EDs). Alterations in these dimensions may contribute to emotional dysregulation and body image disturbances, which are hallmark features of EDs. To compare reflective functioning and interoceptive awareness between individuals with EDs and a non-clinical control group, and to explore associations with general psychological functioning and eating disorder symptomatology within the clinical sample. METHODS: A total of 65 participants were recruited (32 clinical, 33 control group). Participants completed the EDI-3, the CORE-OM, the RFQ, and the MAIA. The Mann-Whitney U test and Spearman correlations were conducted to assess between-group differences and associations among psychological variables. RESULTS: The clinical group showed more severe symptomatology, greater psychological difficulties, increased uncertainty in the attribution of mental states and reduced interoceptive awareness. Significant correlations emerged between ED symptom severity and both interoceptive and reflective capacities. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight the relevance of reflective functioning and interoceptive awareness as transdiagnostic dimensions in EDs. These results support the integration of therapeutic approaches targeting these mechanisms in the treatment of eating disorders.
COGNITIVE FUNCTION EVALUATION IN PATIENTS WITH NEWLY DIAGNOSED PAROXYSMAL ATRIAL FIBRILLATION.
Germanova O, Reshetnikova Y, Popova D … +1 more , Galati G
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982854
BACKGROUND: To evaluate cognitive function of patients with newly diagnosed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a single-center case-control study, we undertook 24 hours ECG monitoring of 6630 patie...
BACKGROUND: To evaluate cognitive function of patients with newly diagnosed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a single-center case-control study, we undertook 24 hours ECG monitoring of 6630 patients, among whom 97 showed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) Fourteen of the AF patients have informed consent to participate in the study. All patients had additional 24 hours ECG monitoring, along with transthoracic echocardiography, volumetric sphygmography, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test. RESULTS: The median MoCA score was 24 [22; 26], indicating mild cognitive impairment in nine of the 14 patients (64%, age 67.9 ± 8.6 y.o.). The least severe impairment was in visual-spatial perception (median 4 of 5 possible), and the most severe was in executive-functional skills (median 3 of 5). Despite the high mean arterial stiffness (CAVI > 8), there was no significant correlation with MoCA (rs = -0.256, p = 0.364). However, there was a significant negative Spearman correlation between MoCA and LV myocardial mass index (rs = -0.737, 95% CI [-0.914; -0.323], p = 0.003), indicating an association between declining cognitive function and myocardial structure. CONCLUSIONS: In most of the patients with asymptomatic paroxysmal newly revealed AF, we observed mild cognitive impairment. Increased LV-indexed mass was associated with worse cognitive function in these AF patients (rs = -0.737, 95% CI [-0.914; -0.323], p = 0.003). This observation calls for investigation of the causal mechanism whereby myocardial remodeling in AF patients may impair brain function.
CASE SERIES STUDY ON MENTALIZATION-BASED GROUP THERAPY FOR ADULTS WITH OBESITY FOLLOWING BARIATRIC SURGERY.
Raspa V, Moretti P, Maio FD … +4 more , Bellucci F, Guercini M, Mazzeschi C, Tortorella A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982853
BACKGROUND: Obesity is a multifaceted condition with biological, psychological, and social determinants. Despite the effectiveness of bariatric surgery for severe obesity, long-term outcomes often depend on the patient's...
BACKGROUND: Obesity is a multifaceted condition with biological, psychological, and social determinants. Despite the effectiveness of bariatric surgery for severe obesity, long-term outcomes often depend on the patient's psychological adjustment and capacity for behavioral change. Emerging evidence suggests that mentalization, i.e., the ability to understand behavior in terms of mental states, may play a key role in sustaining these changes. To explore the effects of a group intervention on psychological functioning, reflective function, and health-related behaviors in individuals following bariatric surgery. METHODS: This multiple case study involved five cisgender women with class I obesity post-bariatric surgery referral. Three participants completed a six-month MBT group intervention. Assessments included the CORE-OM, the RFQ, and open-ended experiential questions administered pre- and post-intervention. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and visual methods; qualitative data were analyzed with lexical co-occurrence analysis using T-LAB software. RESULTS: Quantitative results indicated improvements in psychological symptoms, well-being, and reflective functioning. RFQ scores reflected reduced hypomentalization and hypermentalization. Lexical analysis revealed a thematic shift from concrete concerns with body weight and dietary control to more relational, emotionally nuanced, and self-reflective language. Participants reported increased emotional regulation, improved interpersonal functioning, and greater insight into their health-related behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: MBT may enhance post-surgical adjustment by fostering reflective capacity and emotional awareness in individuals with obesity. These findings support the integration of mentalization-focused approaches in obesity treatment to address the psychological complexities underlying health behavior change.
COERCIVE PSYCHIATRIC TREATMENT: UNRAVELING SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC PATTERNS AND THE POLYPHARMACY CHALLENGE.
Cernika K, Vrublevska J
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982852
BACKGROUND: This study aims to analyse certain populations' sociodemographic factors and to investigate the use of polypharmacy for inpatients assigned to involuntary treatment at the National Center of Mental Health, Ri...
BACKGROUND: This study aims to analyse certain populations' sociodemographic factors and to investigate the use of polypharmacy for inpatients assigned to involuntary treatment at the National Center of Mental Health, Riga, Latvia. METHODS: A retrospective review of clinical data was undertaken in adult inpatients assigned to involuntary psychiatric treatment in the period from December 17th, 2024, till February 4th, 2025. The data about the participants' sociodemographic factors, hospitalisation duration, diagnosis, and treatment strategies were obtained from the hospital's databases. Only data from a fixed 30-day window at the time of analysis were considered, irrespective of hospitalization duration, to ensure consistency and avoid bias from ongoing treatment modifications. The Antipsychotic Total Daily Dose Calculator was used to assess polypharmacy load by estimating the BNF (British National Formulary) coefficient relative to the recommended maximum daily dose. All data were collected in MS Excel and analysed using IBM SPSS 29.0.1.0. RESULTS: The study included 88 inpatients with compulsory medical measures. Results showed a mean age of the participants equal to 41.49±2.41 years, males' dominance making 86.36% (n=76) of the study group, and schizophrenia (F20, ICD-10) noted as the most dominant diagnostic category. Polypharmacy with more than one antipsychotic medication was observed in 89.77% (n=79) of the inpatients. The most common treatment combination was an antipsychotic with a mood stabilizer, prescribed to 44.32% (n=39) of participants. Treatment was primarily guided by antipsychotics, with haloperidol emerging as the most commonly used drug, representing 72.72% (n=64) of the cases, and mood stabilizers received by 57.95% (n=51) of the inpatients. The analysis revealed that 34.09% (n=30) of participants had a BNF coefficient within the recommended maximum daily dose, while the majority, or 65.9% (n=58), exceeded the recommended threshold. CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes to existing knowledge of currently available data about polypharmacy in psychiatric practice and certain population groups undergoing involuntary hospitalisation. The results about treatment patterns may support the optimization of treatment practices and warrant closer attention to safety, side effect profiles, and possible long-term outcomes when polypharmacy is used.
NUTRITIONAL PSYCHIATRY: A PILOT SURVEY ON DIETARY PRACTICES AMONG MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS.
Litta A, Nannavecchia A, Vacca A … +3 more , Mino MV, Favia V, Ventriglio A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982851
BACKGROUND: Nutritional psychiatry is gaining recognition as a complementary approach to improving mental health. Although evidence supports the role of diet and nutraceuticals in psychiatric care, little is known about...
BACKGROUND: Nutritional psychiatry is gaining recognition as a complementary approach to improving mental health. Although evidence supports the role of diet and nutraceuticals in psychiatric care, little is known about their integration into clinical practice by mental health professionals. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and use of nutritional strategies among Italian psychiatrists and psychologists. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was administered to 110 mental health professionals to assess their knowledge of nutritional psychiatry and the practical application of dietary interventions. RESULTS: Most participants reported discussing nutrition with patients and using dietary strategies, though inconsistently. Psychiatrists were more frequently engaged in nutritional counseling and in preventive strategies for somatic comorbidities. The Mediterranean diet emerged as the most commonly recommended model. Gender differences were noted, with female psychiatrists reporting significantly higher self-rated knowledge. CONCLUSIONS: Italian mental health professionals show growing interest in nutritional psychiatry, yet its routine adoption remains limited by gaps in training and institutional support. Clear guidelines, accessible education, and interdisciplinary collaboration - including with dietitians - are essential to foster its integration into psychiatric care.
HEALTH LITERACY AND AWARENESS OF NURSES AND NURSING STUDENTS ON FENTANYL AND DRUG ABUSE.
Pastore F, Basho F, Domenicone E … +2 more , Domeneck L, Litta A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982850
BACKGROUND: The rise of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, has intensified the global drug abuse crisis, posing serious challenges to healthcare systems. Nurses and nursing students play a crucial role in preventi...
BACKGROUND: The rise of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, has intensified the global drug abuse crisis, posing serious challenges to healthcare systems. Nurses and nursing students play a crucial role in prevention, early identification, and emergency management of opioid-related cases. Health Literacy (HL), the ability to access, understand, and use health information, has been proposed as a critical determinant of clinical competence in this context. This study aims to assess the knowledge, awareness, and health literacy of nurses and nursing students in relation to fentanyl and drug abuse, exploring potential associations between HL levels and preparedness to manage substance-related emergencies. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A national multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025, involving 157 participants (nurses and nursing students) across Italy. A structured questionnaire was administered online, covering four domains: sociodemographic information, health literacy (HL), drug addiction knowledge and specific knowledge of fentanyl. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS. RESULTS: Participants demonstrated good overall knowledge about fentanyl clinical use and effects. However, misconceptions were identified - particularly regarding lethal dosages and the inability to detect fentanyl with the senses. Notably, HL scores did not consistently correlate with higher knowledge levels; in some cases, participants with lower HL scores showed better understanding of specific topics such as routes of administration and naloxone use. A significant negative correlation was found between HL and knowledge of drug availability (r = -0.35; p < 0.001). No significant differences emerged between students and professionals. CONCLUSIONS: Findings challenge the assumption that higher HL always predicts better preparedness. Standard HL measures may fail to capture contextual and experiential knowledge essential for managing opioid-related emergencies. Nursing education should incorporate more experiential and clinically focused training on drug abuse, integrating HL as an operational - rather than merely promotional - competency. Further research with larger samples and qualitative methods is recommended.
THE IMPACT OF WORK-RELATED STRESS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF BINGE EATING DISORDER AMONG HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS.
Pastore F, Albino E, Domenicone E … +3 more , Domeneck L, Nissan SD, Litta A
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982849
BACKGROUND: Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a prevalent and under-recognized eating disorder associated with psychological distress and maladaptive coping. Healthcare professionals are frequently exposed to high levels of...
BACKGROUND: Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a prevalent and under-recognized eating disorder associated with psychological distress and maladaptive coping. Healthcare professionals are frequently exposed to high levels of occupational stress, which may increase their vulnerability to disordered eating behaviors, including BED. This study aimed to explore the relationship between work-related stress, emotional exhaustion and the risk of developing binge eating symptoms among healthcare professionals in Italy. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between May and July 2024 among 312 healthcare professionals. Participants completed a structured questionnaire comprising sociodemographic data, stress-related variables, the Emotional Exhaustion subscale of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and the Binge Eating Scale (BES). RESULTS: The sample was predominantly female (81.7%) with a mean age of 37.6 years. Twenty percent reported a history of eating disorders and 60.3% reported stress or anxiety. Significant associations were found between BES scores and stress-related variables, including anxiety, emotional exhaustion, eating during work breaks and vending machine use (p< 0.005). Higher BES scores were correlated with burnout symptoms such as fatigue, emotional drain and inability to cope. A strong association also emerged between BES scores and the perceived impact of stress on eating habits. CONCLUSIONS: Work-related stress and burnout symptoms are significantly associated with binge eating tendencies among healthcare professionals. Preventive strategies - such as institutional stress management programs and access to healthy food - are essential to promote well-being and prevent maladaptive eating behaviors in high-stress healthcare environments.
IMPLEMENTING A MEASUREMENT FEEDBACK SYSTEM IN AN ALCOHOL DETOXIFICATION UNIT: RATIONALE, CASE-BASED PRESENTATION AND PRELIMINARY FEASIBILITY DATA.
Ledouble C, Maurage P, Germeau N … +4 more , Mystakelis T, Athanasiadi M, Starkel P, Timary P
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982848
BACKGROUND: Measurement-Based Care, supported by Measurement Feedback Systems, is increasingly recommended to improve psychiatric care. Indeed, such approach offers valuable support for the development of precision medic...
BACKGROUND: Measurement-Based Care, supported by Measurement Feedback Systems, is increasingly recommended to improve psychiatric care. Indeed, such approach offers valuable support for the development of precision medicine by enabling data-informed treatment grounded in collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and patients. However, its implementation in clinical settings remains limited. METHODS: We present a Measurement Feedback System integrated within a research protocol and implemented in a hospital detoxification unit for patients with Severe Alcohol Use Disorder. Capitalizing on the presentation of a clinical case and preliminary patient evaluations, we describe the benefits and limitations of such an approach. RESULTS: The findings highlight the high acceptability of the tool among patients and underscore the added value of incorporating a Measurement-Based Care framework into standard care in addictive disorders. CONCLUSION: This approach facilitates precision medicine through rich patient phenotyping, enhances clinical reflection, and helps to bridge the research-practice gap.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT AND LEFT VENTRICULAR DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH HEART ARRHYTHMIAS.
Germanova O, Reshetnikova Y, Ermolayeva K … +2 more , Tavormina G, Galati G
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982847
BACKGROUND: To estimate the relationship between cognitive function of patients with heart arrhythmias and left ventricle (LV) diastolic function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a one-center cross-control study we recruited 2...
BACKGROUND: To estimate the relationship between cognitive function of patients with heart arrhythmias and left ventricle (LV) diastolic function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a one-center cross-control study we recruited 28 patients with heart arrhythmias, of whom 14 had 1800 or more premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) per 24 hours and more (group 1), and 14 had paroxysmal AF (group 2). All patients were asymptomatic for heart arrhythmias. Laboratory and instrumental methods included standard investigations: lipidograms, 24 hours ECG monitoring, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and, if prescribed, coronary angiography. In the TTE protocol, we followed current clinical recommendations in assessing the LV diastolic function. For cognitive function evaluation, we used the standard Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test, with the following scoring: maximum possible score - 30 points; mild cognitive impairment - 22-27 points; moderate cognitive impairment - 10-21 points; severe cognitive impairment - 0-9 points. RESULTS: The most common heart arrhythmias (frequent PVCs, paroxysmal AF) were associated with cognitive impairment in the preponderance of patients (mean score here). CONCLUSIONS: LV diastolic dysfunction is a predictor for cognitive impairment in patients with frequent PVCs and paroxysmal AF. The MoCA test can be an additional tool for this category of patients to detect the early cognitive impairment.
SUSTAINED COGNITIVE DECLINE IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS: INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF WHITE MATTER LESION LOAD USING AN AI-DRIVEN BRAIN IMAGING APPROACH.
Tota V, Mehuys A, Vansnick T … +7 more , Amel O, Chahbar F, Mahmoudi L, Mahmoudi SA, Briganti G, Ris L, Mahmoudi S
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982846
BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system, where cognitive impairment can occur even without physical disability. The underlying mechanisms...
BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system, where cognitive impairment can occur even without physical disability. The underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigates the role of white matter lesion load (WMLL) in sustained cognitive decline (SCD) in a real-life MS cohort, using an artificial intelligence(AI)-based brain imaging approach. METHODS: Patients from the CHU Helora MS database with ≥3 SDMT assessments and serial brain MRIs were included. SCD was defined as a ≥4-point or ≥10% SDMT drop, confirmed 6 months later. Patients were stratified into two groups: those with SCD (COG) and those without (N-COG). WMLL was measured using a AI-based model that provides segmentation masks. Lesion volume was calculated by multiplying segmented voxels by voxel size. RESULTS: Of 109 eligible patients, 43 met inclusion criteria. Seven showed SCD; 36 did not. Imaging data were available for 5 COG and 21 N-COG patients. There was no significant difference in WMLL or its progression between patients with and without SCD. Fewer than half of the patients in the COG group showed an increase in WMLL over time, and those who did were older than the group average. WMLL changes were not a reliable marker of SCD. Consistent with previous findings, the COG group included more males, and disease control appeared more challenging. Vascular pathology may be misclassified by segmentation algorithms, which partially explain why the two patients with WMLL progression were older. Gray matter was not assessed, though it may play a key role in this phenomenon. CONCLUSION: SCD did not consistently correlate with WMLL progression. Affected patients were predominantly male, consistent with a more aggressive disease course. WMLL may also be influenced by age-related factors. Alternative imaging biomarkers are needed to explain SCD in MS.
STIFFNESS OF ARTERIES AND LEFT ATRIUM AS PREDICTORS FOR COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN CARDIOLOGY PATIENTS.
Germanova O, Reshetnikova Y, Ermolayeva K … +2 more , Chigareva O, Galati G
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982845
BACKGROUND: To evaluate the relationship between cognitive function and the data of volumetric sphygmography and speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with heart arrhythmias. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Monocentral co...
BACKGROUND: To evaluate the relationship between cognitive function and the data of volumetric sphygmography and speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with heart arrhythmias. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Monocentral cohort study with 33 patients. Group 1 - patients with frequent extrasystoles (ES) of II and more class by Lown (n = 12; 47-79 years old), group 2 - with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) (n = 14; 50-81 years old) and control group - without serious cardiovascular diseases (n = 7; 46-75 years old). METHODS: lipidograms, 24 hours ECG monitoring, TTE, volumetric sphygmography. For cognitive function evaluation, we used the standard MoCA Test. RESULTS: Post hoc analysis according to Dunn showed that groups 1 and 2 differed in LA volume (p = 0.002, ε² = 0.34) and MoCA (p = 0.007, ε² = 0.30). Differences between groups 2 and control were also significant for LA volume (p = 0.024) and MoCA (p = 0.045). We observed a decreasing of cognitive function in both main groups, mostly in with paroxysmal AF. Statistically significant differences in GLS between 1 and 2 group - it was lower in group 2, characterizing the decreasing of LV systolic function. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with frequent ES and paroxysmal AF, develop a cognitive impairment, mostly in the group with paroxysmal AF. Increased arterial stiffness parameters (R-CAVI, L-CAVI) and LA structural changes (increased LA volume, decreased LA strain) are significant predictors of cognitive impairment. The group of patients with paroxysmal AF differed most significantly from the control group in all key parameters.
FACIAL EMOTIONAL FEEDBACK: NAVIGATING SPACES AND FAKING GASEOUS AXONAL SHORT-CUTS?
Treviranus GRS
Psychiatr Danub · 2025 Sep · PMID 40982844
Silvan S. Tomkins (1911-1991) and scholars advanced the understanding of facial expressions and their connection to emotions in affect theory in confluence with the etho- and ethnological Darwinian traditions. While Tomk...
Silvan S. Tomkins (1911-1991) and scholars advanced the understanding of facial expressions and their connection to emotions in affect theory in confluence with the etho- and ethnological Darwinian traditions. While Tomkins at first attributed the origins of feelings to the mimical muscles, he soon realized that the overlying skin, as moved by the muscles, was the actual, not just facial, agent of feelings. Variants of the contested hypotheses on Emotional Facial Feedback (EFF) struggled since, while basic mostly clinical research on the sensory trigeminal (TGS) and the facial motor system (CN7S) couldn't offer a (patho-)physiology of affect concerning the lay experience of emotions to be felt around (activated) mimical muscles in a variant of soft touch - in a way similar to how "feelings" are elicited by emotional mental content alone. Here a broad psycho-physiological review concludes on three explanations: 1). the many "anastomotic" tracts with close adjacency of motor and sensing branches point to a simulating "shortcut" from the CN7S to the TGS thus just faking "feeling" without ensuing contraction - since branches of CN7S can just be alerted by readiness to move. This could be due to an orthogonal gaseotransmission by H2S and NO, also regulating its axonally transported enzymes (nNOS e.g.). 2). The very circumscribed sensorial areas in the face creating specific EFF gradients could function more precisely and adapting as a "somatotopic grid" by recruiting the second "onion-shaped" dermatomes of sensorial defluence providing "pain by rate", but also localization. 3). Merely intended movements of the jaw (via preparatory potentials) possibly provide psychological localizations of emotional and other semantic meanings within the Cartesian abstract mental space - limited to 4=3+1 (time) dimensions sustaining the role of movement in future AI. Self-constituting and empathic automatic mimicry and touch interactively point to their core clinical disturbances in "borderline personality" amenable to trigeminal inflammations e.g. at the cavernous sinus.
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