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Introduction A variety of peer support workers have been integrated in the mental health workforce in several countries. The effectiveness of this approach is still inconclusive. However, some data reveals promising results. Some projects have integrated peer support intervention in the treatment of psychosis. In fact, UK clinical guidelines for psychosis advise the inclusion of peer support within Early Intervention in Psychosis services. Objectives The current study aims to evaluate how peer support may assist the intervention in psychosis and highlight challenges ahead in this field. Methods Narrative review of the available scientific literature. Results Research suggests that consistent and frequent peer support enhances social support and boosts self-confidence and the overall quality of life for people going through psychosis. Individuals diagnosed with severe mental illnesses who receive peer support reportedly experience an increased sense of control, hopefulness, and empowerment, enabling them to initiate positive changes in their lives. People going through psychosis experience internalized stigma. Destigmatization of psychotic experiences is a central theme of intervention in psychosis. Participants viewed peer support as a valuable form of assistance that could offer advantages to both peers (service users) and peer support workers. Conclusions Peer support makes a strong contribution to destigmatising psychosis. The available date is promising and supports the effectiveness of peer support in such instances. As projects of peer support in psychosis continue to be implemented, further research should provide additional insight into the effectiveness and inherent challenges of this type of intervention. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Irvin D. Yalom defines existential psychotherapy as a dynamic therapeutic approach that focuses on concerns rooted in existence with the four ultimate concerns being death, isolation, meaning in life, and freedom. Patients in advanced stages of cancer often experience elevated levels of psychological distress, encompassing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and a sense of spiritual hopelessness. Recently, interest in spiritual well-being has prompted a new wave of interventions that directly target this population, namely logotherapy and other existential interventions based on existential principles. Objectives In this review, the primary focus was to comprehend the current evidence on the application of existential psychotherapy for individuals coping with advanced cancer and give an overview of the therapy approaches used. Methods Narrative review of scientific literature using Pubmed search engine. Results Terao and Satoh identified nine types of existential psychotherapies which were investigated using randomized controlled trials for patients with advanced cancer or in terminal care: Meaning-Centered Group Psychotherapy (MCGP), Individual Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy (IMCP), Meaning-Making intervention (MMi), Meaning of Life Intervention, Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (CALM), Hope Intervention, Cognitive and Existential Intervention, Dignity Therapy, and Life-Review Interviews. All deal with the issues pointed by Yalom. Existential or spiritual well-being improvements were validated in MCGP, IMCP, Meaning of Life intervention, and Life-Review intervention. Conclusions Current evidence is still based on a very limited number of studies. Additional research is needed to delve into the impact of existential psychotherapy on individuals facing advanced cancer. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Tourette’s syndrome (TS) is a disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements, and vocalizations known as tics. While there are existing treatment options, there is a growing need for novel pharmacological approaches to manage the symptoms of TS effectively. This study delves into the emerging field of using cannabinoids as a potential treatment for Tourette’s syndrome. Objectives The primary objectives of this review are to examine the current evidence base for the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of Tourette’s syndrome, to assess the biological rationale supporting the use of cannabinoids in managing tic severity, to provide insights into the results of existing clinical trials involving cannabinoids and Tourette’s syndrome, and to draw conclusions regarding the potential efficacy and safety of cannabinoid-based treatments for TS. Methods Narrative review of the available scientific literature. Results There is a strong biological rationale for how cannabinoids could impact tic severity. The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including motor control and neurotransmitter release. Activation of cannabinoid receptors in the brain may modulate these processes, potentially reducing tics. While limited, two small randomized, placebo-controlled trials of THC have been conducted in TS patients. These trials suggested potential benefits of cannabis-derived agents in reducing tic frequency and severity. Self-report and examiner rating scales demonstrated significant improvements in tic symptoms. The trials indicated that THC treatment did not result in significant adverse effects in TS patients. Conclusions The exploration of cannabinoids as a treatment option for Tourette’s syndrome is promising but requires further investigation. The biological mechanisms through which cannabinoids may affect tic severity in TS are sound, suggesting their potential as a therapeutic option. Existing trials with THC have shown encouraging results, demonstrating a reduction in tics without significant adverse effects. However, the limited number of trials warrants caution in drawing definitive conclusions. Despite the promising findings, the overall efficacy and safety of cannabinoid-based treatments remain largely unknown. Further trials are essential to address dosing, active ingredients, optimal administration, and potential long-term effects. Clinical use should be approached with caution. While early evidence is encouraging, additional rigorous studies are needed to establish the safety and efficacy of cannabinoid-based treatments for this disorder. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction The population ageing is a reality associated with an increase in prevalence of Dementia. The use of benzodiazepines is often postulated as a risk factor in these syndromes. Contrary to recommendations for its short-time use, long-term and chronic use are common, with an estimated 8,7% of elderly people in the US taking benzodiazepines. Objectives To clarify the most recent evidence on the use of benzodiazepines and the risk of developing dementia. Methods Non-systematic review of literature, using PubMed as database and filtering the results for meta-analysis. Results Four articles were included in this review. Zhong G et al. concluded that risk of dementia increased in consumers of benzodiazepines and it was associated with higher doses. In turn, AlDawasari A et al., when trying to clarify the use of different sedative-hypnotic drugs, found and increased risk with the consumption of benzodiazepines. After exclusion of articles with confounders and adjustment for protopathic bias, the risk was not maintained. Lucchetta RC et al. concluded that the risk exists but without inferring differences between doses or duration of action. Finally, Penninkilampi R e Eslick GD investigated this association, after controlling for the protopathic bias, concluding, contrary to AlDawasari et al., that the association benzodiazepines consumption and dementia do not result from this bias. Conclusions We cannot draw robust and concrete conclusions between benzodiazepines consumption and the pathogenesis of dementia because not only is the literature limited, but results are also heterogeneous. However, these prescriptions must be carried out cautiously, especially in the elderly, due to the known adverse effects associated with them. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Abstract Background Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are a growing group of rare genetic disorders. The most common CDG is phosphomannomutase 2 (PMM2)-CDG which often has a severe clinical presentation and life-limiting consequences. There are no approved therapies for this condition. Also, there are no validated disease-specific quality of life (QoL) scales to assess the heterogeneous clinical burden of PMM2-CDG which presents a challenge for the assessment of the disease severity and the impact of a certain treatment on the course of the disease. Aim and methods This study aimed to identify the most impactful clinical signs and symptoms of PMM2-CDG, and specific patient and observer reported outcome measures (PROMs and ObsROMs, respectively) that can adequately measure such impact on patients’ QoL. The most burdensome signs and symptoms were identified through input from the CDG community using a survey targeting PMM2-CDG families and experts, followed by family interviews to understand the real burden of these symptoms in daily life. The list of signs and symptoms was then verified and refined by patient representatives and medical experts in the field. Finally, a literature search for PROMs and ObsROMs used in other rare or common diseases with similar signs and symptoms to those of PMM2-CDG was performed. Results Twenty-four signs/symptoms were identified as the most impactful throughout PMM2-CDG patients’ lifetime. We found 239 articles that included tools to measure those community-selected PMM2-CDG symptoms. Among them, we identified 80 QoL scales that address those signs and symptoms and, subsequently, their psychometric quality was analysed. These scales could be applied directly to the PMM2-CDG population or adapted to create the first PMM2-CDG-specific QoL questionnaire. Conclusion Identifying the impactful clinical manifestations of PMM2-CDG, along with the collection of PROMs/ObsROMs assessing QoL using a creative and community-centric methodology are the first step towards the development of a new, tailored, and specific PMM2-CDG QoL questionnaire. These findings can be used to fill a gap in PMM2-CDG clinical development. Importantly, this methodology is transferable to other CDG and rare diseases with multiple signs and symptoms.

Introduction The prevalence of mental illness has increased worldwide over the past few years. At the same time, and even in the sense, there is also an increase in suicide rates with special incidence in certain risk groups, among which health professionals stand out. In this particular group, physicians seem to represent a class particularly vulnerable by the stress and demand associated with it, but also by access and knowledge about potentially lethal means. For this very part, they have a higher risk of suicide than the general population. Objectives This paper aims to better understand the phenomenon of suicide among physicians and identify which medical specialties are most vulnerable. Methods Bibliographic research in the Pubmed® database using the terms “suicide and physicians”. Results The data obtained from the scientific literature consulted indicate that physicians have a higher risk of suicide than the general population, with greater emphasis on females who have higher rates compared to males. Work factors that translate into higher levels of demand and stress combined with easy access and knowledge about the use of potentially lethal means seem to contribute very significantly to this phenomenon. Perfectionist personality traits with a high sense of responsibility and duty are also important characteristics that place these professionals in a position of greater vulnerability. With regard to the different medical specialties, anesthesiology, psychiatry and general and family medicine are the ones with higher suicide rates among the medical class. Conclusions The risk of suicide, although admittedly high in the medical class, is not homogeneous among different countries, being naturally influenced by the satisfaction/gratification obtained in the performance of their profession. In this sense, countries such as Switzerland and Canada show higher levels of professional satisfaction. In the opposite direction, dissatisfaction in the exercise of clinical activity is associated with higher levels of fatigue and burnout. Medical women, due to the need to combine the responsibility of family tasks with professional responsibility, are at greater risk. In this sense, it is necessary to develop strategies that are more appropriate for the prevention and early identification of suicide risk situations that can be experienced not only by improving working conditions but also by better addressing professionals suffering from mental disorders. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Substance use disorders(SUDs) are a major health concern and current treatment interventions have proven only limited success. Despite increasing effectiveness, still about 50–60% relapse within 6–12 months after treatment [Cornelius et al., Addict Behav. 2003;28 381-386]. SUDs are defined as chronic disorders of brain reward system, motivation, and memory processes that have gone awry. Medication reducing craving and substance use is mainly available for alcohol dependence and to a lesser extent for other substances. Hallucinogens may represent a group of agents with potential anti-craving properties subsequently reducing substance use in SUD patients. For instance, lysergic acid diethylamide(LSD) and psilocybin have previously been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms of alcohol and nicotine dependence. Objectives New treatments preferably focusing on reducing craving and subsequent substance use are therefore urgently needed. The hallucinogen psilocybin may provide a new treatment option for SUD patients, given the beneficial results observed in recent studies Methods Systematic revision of literature. Results In the 1950s, a group of drugs with potential to alter consciousness were discovered (hallucinogens). Several studies suggested their anti-SUD potential, improving self-acceptance and interpersonal relationships, reducing craving and alcohol use. As a result of its recreational popularity during the 1960s, they were banned in 1967, greatly hampering scientific research in this field. Recently, psilocybin, an hallucinogenic substance in psilocybin-containing mushrooms has gained popularity in neuropsychological research, showing to increase trait openness, cognitive and behavioral flexibility, and ratings of positive attitude, mood, social effects, and behavior and even reported persistent positive changes in attitude and behavior. These findings might suggest a valuable compound for the treatment of psychiatric conditions with several additional studies providing supportive evidence for the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for SUD treatment and relapse prevention. Conclusions With the reported limited amount of side effects and potential beneficial effects of psilocybin in SUD, there are valid reasons to further investigate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of psilocybin as a potential SUD treatment. On the one hand, psilocybin may exert its anti-addictive properties by beneficial effects on negative emotional states and stress. On the other hand, psilocybin may improve cognitive inflexibility and compulsivity. Research on the efficacy of psilocybin on SUD is still limited to a handful of published studies to date. As a result, many important questions related to the use of psilocybin as a complement to current treatment of SUD and its working mechanisms remain unanswered. Before psilocybin can be implemented as a treatment option for SUD, more extensive research is needed. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Psychosis is a frequent complication in patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Characterized mainly by visual hallucinations and paranoid delusions, it occurs most frequently, but not exclusively, as an adverse effect of antiparkinson medications. Nevertheless, cognitive impairment and dementia, as a frequent feature of PD, needs to be considered for differential diagnosis. Objectives Our main objective is to report a case of PD Psychosis, its diagnosis and management and complement it with a non-systematic review of literature. Methods Patient file consultation and an additional research, based on the key words “Psychosis” and “Parkinson’s Disease”, using Pubmed as database. Results A 53-year-old female, diagnosed with Juvenile Parkinson’s Disease since age 45 and, as expected, polimedicated with antiparkinson medication. Without any relevant psychiatric background, she was admitted to the emergency department for disorganized behaviour, with 2 weeks of evolution. There, it was also possible to determine the presence of auditive hallucinations and persecutory delusions, associated with marked anguish. After exclusion of any underlying cause for this symptomatology, inpatient treatment was proposed and accepted by the patient. In collaboration with the Neurology Department, a gradual reduction and optimization of antiparkinson drugs was conducted, associated with introduction of low doses of antipsychotic drugs, in this case Olanzapine. With this medication adjustments, clinical improvement was accomplished, with eventual fading and cessation of psychotic symptoms. Additionally, an irregularly intake of antiparkinson drugs was considered the most probably cause of this clinical decompensation. Conclusions As present in literature, due to the chronicity and complexity of PD, stopping all antiparkinson drugs is not an option, even when psychotic symptoms, that could be a consequence of these drugs, are present. Therefore, a rigorous evaluation and management are mandatory, including the exclusion of other underlying causes and a careful therapeutic adjustment, with gradual reduction of antiparkinson drugs, addressing an eventual temporal relationship between the beginning of a specific drug and the onset of symptoms, and verification of therapeutic compliance, including an involuntary overdose. In cases of refractory symptoms, and after a risk-benefit assessment, pharmacologic treatment directed at these symptoms, low doses of anti-psychotics, may be necessary. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Pregnancy and childbirth are moments of great vulnerability in a woman’s life, which can predispose her to the development of psychopathology, ranging from transient depressive symptoms (“baby blues”) to psychotic symptoms. Postpartum delirium is the psychiatric syndrome that some authors refer to as puerperal psychosis par excellence. It was first described in the 18th century and were thought to be associated with painful delivery, then became rare after the introduction of effective analgesia. Objectives The objective of this work is to contribute to a better understanding of this condition, through a literature review. Methods Bibliographic research using Pubmed® and the keywords: postpartum delirium. Results Clinical presentation of postpartum delirium includes: constantly varying degrees of consciousness; perplexity; hallucinations or pseudo-hallucinations of one or more organs of sense; delusions or delusive-type thoughts; great motoric unrest and considerable motoric and verbal abandon; and acute aggressive discharges can also occur. It is thought to be due to organic complications, such as infectious disease, abnormal loss of blood, thrombosis, neurological disease, obstetric disease, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes. An article from 1975 mentions how difficult was to treat postpartum delirium despite the development of psychopharmaceutical therapy. The patients remained psychotic for long periods and had many relapses. They mention a comparative study that found that the symptomatic treatment of this syndrome with a combination of perfenazine and lithium carbonate produced relatively favorable results. For that reason, at that time, it was the medication of choice. Nowadays the psychopharmacological treatment of puerperal psychosis, in general, still consists of the combination of lithium and an antipsychotic, such as haloperidol, and possibly a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam. Conclusions Postpartum delirium is rarely mentioned in the literature and just a few cases have been described. It is considered a rare postpartum psychotic condition but would perhaps be less rare if its existence were recognized. On this note, it is important for clinical practice to research on the psychoses of pregnancy and not just the most common. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Nowadays, In the exercise of psychiatric clinical activity, the prescription of atypical antipsychotics is a widespread practice. However, despite the approval in the treatment of psychoses and bipolar affective disorder, where its effectiveness is clearly demonstrated, these drugs are off-label prescribed in most of the clinical situations. Objectives This work aims to clarify which atypical antipsychotics are most frequent prescribed and the clinical conditions where their off-label prescription is more common. Methods Bibliographic research in the Pubmed® database using the terms “atypical antipsychotics and off-label use” Results According to the scientific literature consulted, the off-label prescription of atypical antipsychotics may represent about 70% of the total prescription of these psychotropic drugs. Risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine and aripiprazole are the most off-label prescribed among the atypical antipsychotics. The psychiatric conditions where atypical antipsychotics are most often off-label prescribed are addictive disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, eating disorders, insomnia and dementia, where therapeutic benefits are demonstrated when carefully selected. Conclusions The off-label prescription can be interpreted from two points of view. On the one hand, it can guide innovation in clinical practice and improve symptoms in patients who do not respond to standard treatments. On the other hand, it may be associated with negative consequences due to the lack of data on safety and efficacy in these situations. Despite widespread prescribing of atypical antipsychotics, there is no evidence-based recommendation beyond psychoses and bipolar affective disorder. Thus, when prescribed, we must proceed with careful monitoring and consider the risks and benefits in relation to off-label prescription. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Introduction Sleep is essential for an adequate neurobiological functioning, being implicated in several cognitive functions. Even in healthy individuals, sleep deprivation can lead to a number of psychopathological changes, including perceptual distortions, hallucinations and delusions. Thus, the resulting clinical picture may be similar to a psychotic disorder. Objectives To present a clinical case of psychotic symptomatology induced by sleep deprivation. Methods Patient’s clinical file consultation and literature review using the search engine Pubmed® and the keywords: “sleep deprivation”, “sleep loss” and “psychosis”. Results We present the case of a 41-year-old woman with a history of an episode of mood changes with psychotic symptoms that was preceded by a period of total insomnia. No psychotropic drugs since then and no relapses. In May 2020, she was admitted in psychiatry department due to clinical picture composed by significant psychomotor slowing, drowsiness, slowed speech, verbal visual, tactile and auditory hallucinations accompanied by grandiose delusions. These symptoms were preceded by total insomnia with one week of duration. In the hospital was administered quetiapine 100mg and lorazepam 2.5mg to aid in the recovery of sleep deprivation and concomitantly aripiprazole 15mg was prescribed. The patient presented a rapid and significant clinical improvement. Currently, it is without any type of medication and without psychopathological changes. Conclusions The clinical picture present in this case report was triggered after a significant period of sleep deprivation. Thus, it illustrates the role that sleep has in the development of psychiatric symptomatology, sometimes difficult to differentiate from psychiatric disorders. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Introduction Currently, there is scientific evidence supporting the relationship between socio-environmental factors and the onset of a first episode of psychosis (FEP). In this context, the phenomenon of migration, seen as a negative life experience, may become an important risk factor in developing a psychotic disorder (PD). In Europe, the impact of this phenomenon is growing and, therefore, it’s necessary to provide a proper answer to these individual’s mental health problems. Objectives Identify which phases of this migration process are most important in the development of a FEP and what are the more significant socio-environmental factors in each phase. Methods Bibliographic research in Pubmed database using the terms “Migration” and “First Episode Psychosis”. Results Research confirms that migrants have a 2 to 3-fold increased risk of developing a PD. This risk will be even higher in the refugee population. Pre- and post-migration factors demonstrated to be more important than factors related with the migration process itself. In the pre-migration phase highlight factors like the lower parental social class and a previous trauma. In the post-migration phase highlight factors like discrimination, social disadvantage and a mismatch between expectations and reality. Conclusions Literature is unanimous in considering migrant status as an independent risk factor for the development of FEP, possibly due to the outsider’s role in society. Thus, despite the growing interest in Biological Psychiatry, this work demonstrates that socio-environmental factors are very preponderant in the development of these disorders and because of that further investigation is still necessary. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Introduction Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by motor, behavioral and autonomic changes. It is associated with several psychiatric disorders, including dementia. Catatonia is an underdiagnosed syndrome, so it is important to draw attention to it. Here, we review a case of a patient admitted to our psychiatric department with a clinical presentation compatible with catatonia. After proper treatment, further assessment revealed dementia. Objectives This work aims to describe a case of catatonia in a patient with dementia. Methods Bibliographic research using Pubmed®. Clinical file consultation and patient interviews. Results Catatonia is a disorder that was already been described as part of several types of dementia. We present a 69-year-old female patient, admitted to our psychiatric department with clinical presentation compatible with catatonia. To admission, she presented some typical complications resulting from long immobility such as pressure ulcers and nutritional deficiencies. During the hospitalization, she developed a urinary infection and there was the need to tube feeding. She was treated with benzodiazepines and improved. Further assessment revealed dementia. Conclusions Catatonia in dementia is not uncommon, although it is an underdiagnosed syndrome, and when treated early and properly it has a good prognosis. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Introduction Ketamine, synthesized in 1962 as phencyclidine derivate, is denominated a “dissociative anesthetic” because of its side-effects, such as dissociative episodes and psychotic-like symptoms, which have limited its applicability on clinical practice. Otherwise, in the last decades the non-medical use of ketamine has been growing and today is one of the most popular illicit substances consumed between adolescents and young adults. Objectives Increasing the knowledge and understanding of the factors related to crescent use of ketamine and the experiences and consequences associated to its consumption. Methods Clinical interview with patients diagnosed with ketamine use disorder and bibliographic research in Pubmed database using the terms “Ketamine use” and “Ketamine addiction”. Results Pat et al. (2002) describes a clinical case of a young male, diagnosed with substance use disorders, specifically alcohol and cocaine use disorders, that started a treatment with ketamine. After the treatment, pleasant depersonalization experiences contributed to the development of patient’s ketamine dependence. Other patient’s reports confirm the association of ketamine use with psychedelic effects and dissociative episodes and pointed these effects as main reason for its consumption. Conclusions The adverse effects that limited the medical use of ketamine are the same that promote its utilization with recreational purposes by adolescents and young adults in parties and nightclubs. About the ketamine dependence, the literature is scarce and doesn´t clearly identify a physical withdrawal syndrome, pointing only to a serious psychological dependence. Thus, with the crescent non-medical use of ketamine, it’s urgent to develop an intervention plan directed to this problem. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Introduction Eating disorders (ED) and gender dysphoria (GD) are associated with a change in body perception. Therefore, body dissatisfaction plays a common and central role in these disorders. In GD, body image concerns are related to the features of the biological sex. In ED, body dissatisfaction comes from a distorted perception of weight and body shape and plays an important role in the development and maintenance of the psychopathology. Objectives To present and discuss the clinical case of a patient with a previous diagnosis of GD who presented with a clinical condition suggesting a restrictive anorexia nervosa (AN). Methods Patient´s clinical files consultation and literature review using Pubmed and the keywords: eating disorders and gender dysphoria. Results We present the case of a 25-year-old patient who was living in a shelter for victims of domestic violence and was admitted for severe restrictive AN. The patient was discharged after 40 days and medicated with sertraline, diazepam and olanzapine, as well as her previous medication (hormonal therapy): cyproterone, finasteride, estradiol, oxybutynin. Conclusions Although studies on this subject are still scarce, there has been some progress and the literature recognizes the coexistence of these conditions. However ED symptoms in patients with GD could have a different meaning: they may represent a dysfunctional coping strategy adopted to block features of the biological sex. Therefore health professionals may take a more holistic approach to body image. Additional studies will be necessary, allowing the establishment of cause-consequence interactions between weight loss and psychopathology related to GD. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic represented a serious strain on the mental health resilience worldwide. Implementation of restrictive rules implied the disruption of social networks, eliciting emotional exhaustion and intense response to fear. This was amplified by media spread of panic and fake news, representing risk factors for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Fear can be dangerous, especially accounting premorbid psychopathological vulnerability, such as pathological personality traits. Emotional dysregulation increases fear levels, mediated by the relationship between emotional dysregulation and lack of tolerance. Objectives Clinical case presentation of patient who developed dissociative and behavioral symptoms following COVID-19 infection. Bibliographic research. Methods Bibliographic research using Pubmed®. Clinical file consultation and patient interviews. Results Heightened psychophysiological reactivity can result from the persistent fear experienced during a traumatic event and repeated memories related to it, leading to a sensitization of the response to fear. We present 57 year-old female patient, admitted to the COVID ward after trying to escape from home isolation due to positivity to COVID-19. In the hospital setting she developed dissociative symptoms, trying to escape from the ward and infect other people. Conclusions Intense fear responses to COVID-19 are likely explained by poor emotion regulation capacities as well as dissociative mechanisms. Studies have shown that this pandemic was experienced as a real traumatic event and some studies have found that it may lead to the development of PTSD. Pathological personality is positively related to PTSD symptoms, attributable to higher levels of mood instability, cognitive/perceptual disorders, interpersonal dysfunctions and negative affection. Disclosure No significant relationships.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate adherence to medication treatment and possible associated factors in elderly patients interviewed during medical appointments in primary care units. METHOD: This was a cross-sectional, population-based study of 57 older patients aged 60 to 99 years living in the municipality of Ponto dos Volantes, state of Minas Gerais, including rural and urban areas. Data were collected during medical appointments, using a structured electronic script. The association between the parameters and the level of adherence to treatment was assessed using the χ2 test, with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: Among the elderly patients interviewed, 45 (78.9%) responded about adherence to treatment. Of these, 11 (24.4%) were included in the low adherence group. None of the parameters evaluated showed a statistically significant association with the classification of drug adherence. CONCLUSION: The present study identified that 1 in every 4 patients had low adherence to drug treatment. Among the variables studied, notably sex, age, schooling, number of comorbidities, number of medications, and income, no statistically significant relationship was observed. KEYWORDS: aged; treatment adherence and compliance; disease; volunteers.

The substantial increase in greenhouse gas emissions in recent decades has led to a significant rise in global warming and climate change. In response, governments have introduced policies, including environmental trade regulations, to promote sustainable supply chains. These measures unevenly impact countries, with developing nations facing more significant challenges due to their reliance on primary and agribusiness sectors. Large farms and firms in agrifood chains can often comply with these regulations. However, small and medium producers need help with the financial and technical burdens, risking exclusion from global markets, environmental damage, and reduced productivity and income. Addressing these issues is essential for adapting to and mitigating climate change, enhancing agrifood sustainability, reducing rural poverty, and improving food security in developing countries. This paper proposes immediate G20 actions for South America, such as financing research and extension institutions to develop sustainable agricultural practices for small producers and creating regional programs to encourage forest conservation and low-carbon agriculture. Wealthy countries should fund these initiatives, as they are the ones that impose the strictest environmental measures on international trade.

Como parte de las investigaciones de la Red PATINA el grupo de trabajo Nº 5 dedicó su atención al comportamiento del aluminio desnudo y anodizado con diferentes espesores en diferentes atmósferas de Iberoamérica. En el presente trabajo se presenta una evaluación de patrones de aluminio 99,5 % de pureza desnudo y anodizado con espesores de 15 y 25 μm, mediante ruido electroquímico. Los resultados obtenidos se comparan con el comportamiento determinado en diferentes atmósferas durante un período de 2 años. El ruido de voltaje del patrón de 5 μm de espesor presenta un comportamiento diferente al de los restantes espesores, lo que coincide con una mayor susceptibilidad a la corrosión picadura de este primer anodizado. Se reportan también algunas diferencias en el ruido de corriente. Se concluye que mediante la utilización del ruido electroquímico es posible caracterizar el aluminio con respecto a su sensibilidad a la corrosión picadura en condiciones atmosféricas.

El aluminio, en general, presenta una buena resistencia a la corrosión en la atmósfera. Sin embargo, el aluminio sin ninguna protección y las aleaciones de aluminio expuestas a la intemperie envejecen mostrando un color gris, negro en el caso de atmósferas industriales, sufren la formación de picaduras en atmósferas marinas, etc. Para su protección, o a efectos decorativos, se le aplican diferentes procesos de acabado en un amplio rango de aplicaciones. Estos procesos de acabado, básicamente consisten en dos métodos de protección: anodizado y pintado; este último abarca desde pinturas convencionales de base disolvente hasta modernos sistemas base agua, de alto contenido en sólidos o pinturas en polvo. Este trabajo considera el comportamiento de tres sistemas de pinturas: alquídico, poliuretano y poliéster, tras más de tres años de exposición en un amplio espectro de condiciones atmosféricas de Iberoamérica. La información presentada incluye la resistencia a la deslaminación en la incisión, corrosión filiforme, ataque por hongos y cambios en las propiedades físico-químicas de la superficie de la pintura (pérdida de brillo, color, entizado, etc.)

Se discute el trabajo realizado sobre 12 diferentes recubrimientos para banda continua en el marco de la Red PATINA (Protección Anticorrosiva en la Atmósfera), patrocinada por el CYTED. Incluye las actividades llevadas a cabo por instituciones de Ciencia y Técnica de Iberoamérica, sobre distintas formulaciones provistas por empresas productoras de los países participantes, entre 1996 y 1999. Se expusieron a la intemperie, en distintas condiciones ambientales de la Red de Estaciones MICAT, CYTED, siguiendo la norma ISO 2810, recubrimientos de diferentes formulaciones. Se evaluaron las características protectoras sobre el acero de base en función de los parámetros medio-ambientales y los tiempos de exposición programados, según la normas ISO 4628, 4623 y ASTM D 3274. Se aplicaron dos esquemas de protección orgánicos sobre las muestras de acero, otros cuatro sobre muestras de acero previamente protegido con Zn y otros seis sobre acero galvanizado (2) y recubierto con galvalume (4), con y sin incisión en cada esquema hasta llegar el acero. Se discuten los resultados obtenidos al cabo de 1, 2, 3 años y 42 meses en función de la agresividad de cada sitio de ensayo. Se aplicó espectroscopia de impedancia electroquímica (EIE) al cabo de diferentes períodos de exposición para evaluar la incidencia del deterioro de cada recubrimiento sobre la respuesta global de los esquemas, en varias de las condiciones de ensayo.

The south-western part of the Iberian Peninsula, including the southern branch of the Iberian Massif, has recently been the subject of several magnetotelluric (MT) studies. This area is made up of three different tectonic terranes: the South Portuguese Zone (SPZ), the Ossa Morena Zone (OMZ) and the Central Iberian Zone (CIZ). The boundaries between these zones are considered to be sutures, which appear as high electrical conductivity anomalies in the MT surveys. The OMZ is characterised by a conductive layer at middle-lower crustal levels. To investigate the continuity of this conductive layer into the CIZ, a new MT profile was carried out. This 75-km long ENE profile goes through the boundary between the OMZ and the CIZ. The results of a two-dimensional magnetotelluric inversion revealed a high-conductivity anomaly in the transition OMZ/CIZ (the so-called Central Unit), which is interpreted as due to interconnected graphite along shear planes. High-conductivity anomalies appeared in the middle crust of the CIZ, whose geometry and location are consistent with the conductive layer previously found in the OMZ, thus confirming the prolongation of the conductive layer into the CIZ. The top of this layer correlated spatially with a broad reflector detected by a seismic profile previously acquired in the same area. This, together with other geological and petrological evidence, points to a common origin for both features.

Research on teaching Impact Assessment plays an important role in seeking improvements in the quality of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). This article analyzes EIA teaching from the perspective of lecturers who teach EIA in Brazilian Environmental Engineering Programs. Using an online questionnaire for data collection and content analysis as a method for data analysis, the results are based on the perceptions of 37 lecturers. The lecturers participating in the survey are predominantly female, relatively young (mostly between 35 and 45 years old), and almost all of them hold a doctorate. Results indicate that the content taught, and the methods used are aligned with best teaching practices in EIA to varying extents. In addition, lecturers' perceptions of EIA teaching and practice align with results of scientific research on practitioners perception and EIA effectiveness in Brazil, which point out, for example, lack or limitations in participation, but also the presence of good practices. We hope that the results can contribute to reflections and improvements on EIA teaching specifically in Brazil. HIGHLIGHTS: ⁠The study identifies that Brazilian EIA lecturers in Environmental Engineering are predominantly female, aged 35–45, with 92% holding doctoral degrees. However, their advanced degrees often focus on other topics, indicating a need for more specialized training in EIA. ⁠Teaching methods and content align with international EIA practices, adhering to best practice principles. ⁠The perceptions of Brazilian lecturers on EIA confirm previous findings in the field, highlighting consistent challenges and views. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi circulates in semiarid areas of northeastern Brazil in distinct ecotopes (sylvatic, peridomestic and domestic) where Triatoma brasiliensis Neiva, 1911 is the most important Chagas disease vector. In this study, we analyzed microevolutionary and demographic aspects of T. brasiliensis populations at the ecotypic, micro and macro-geographic scales by combining morphometrics and molecular results. Additionally, we aimed to address the resolution of both markers for delimiting populations in distinct scales. Methods We sampled populations of T. brasiliensis from distinct ecotypic and geographic sites in the states Rio Grande do Norte (RN) and Paraíba (PB). The geometric morphometry was carried out with 13 landmarks on the right wings (n = 698) and the genetic structure was assessed by sequencing a region of cytochrome b mitochondrial gene (n = 221). Mahalanobis distance (MD) and coefficient of molecular differentiation (ΦST) were calculated among all pairs of populations. The results of comparisons generated MD and ΦST dendrograms, and graphics of canonical variate analysis (CVA). Results Little structure was observed for both markers for macro-geographic scales. Mantel tests comparing geographic, morphometric and genetic matrices showed low correlation (all R 2 < 0.35). The factorial graphics built with the CVA evidenced population delimitation for the morphometric data at micro-geographic scales. Conclusions We believe that T. brasiliensis carries in its genotype a source of information to allow the phenotypical plasticity across its whole distribution for shaping populations, which may have caused a lack of population delimitation for CVAs in morphometric analysis for macro-geographic scale analysis. On the other hand, the pattern of morphometric results in micro-geographic scales showed well-defined groups, highlighting the potential of this tool to inferences on the source for infestation.

This doctoral research aimed to investigate the history of the formation of mathematics teachers in northern Minas Gerais, in the undergraduate course at the current State University of Montes Claros - UNIMONTES. The focused period extends from the 1960s to the 1990s. We used the Oral History methodology, according to the parameters of the Oral History and Mathematical Education Group - GHOEM, integrating the project he developed to map the training and performance of teachers of Mathematics in Brazil. The examination of the interviews carried out shows us a great search for the expansion of the staff of graduated teachers to work in Basic Education and, also, that the graduates to become teachers of the course/institution that had trained them.