Severe Health Problems Research Articles

Analysis of Suspended Particulate Matter in a Conventional Seed Spices Cleaning and Grading Industry: A Case Study of Unjha Vicinity in Gujarat, India

A large number of seed spices (Cumin, Fennel, Coriander, Fenugreek etc.) cleaning-grading units are situated in Gujarat and Rajasthan. In-plant study was performed in such a cleaning-grading industry located at Unjha (Gujarat) in collaboration with Centre for Research on Seed Spice (SDAU), Jagudan, Mehsana. Apprehension for wellbeing of workers of such dust/ suspended particulate matter (SPM) generating industries are growing with time. SPM samples were collected using standard High Volume Sampler and these samples were analyzed for their respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) and total SPM concentration (µg/m3). The highest concentration of RSPM (< 10 micron) inside the plant was found to be 20 x103 µg/m3, while the highest SPM concentration level was 168x103 µg/m3. The average particle size of SPM was 1.96 µ to 9.43 µ while that of RSPM was 1.7 µ. The Ambient air quality norms prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for industrial areas limit these values to 100 µg/m3 (SPM) and 60 µg/m3 (RSPM). Such highly polluted in-plant atmosphere of seed spices cleaning-grading industry may cause severe health problems, leading to respiratory diseases among the workers. In order to protect the health of workers engaged in these industries, it is suggested to install the electrostatic precipitator (ESP) device and retrofitting of existing equipment (such that dust levels are within permissible limits) may be considered.

Widespread Circulation of Tick-Borne Viruses in Virginia-Evidence of Exposure to Heartland, Bourbon, and Powassan Viruses in Wildlife and Livestock.

Emerging tick-borne viruses such as Powassan virus (POWV), Bourbon virus (BRBV), and Heartland virus (HRTV), whilst rare, can cause severe health problems in humans. While limited clinical cases have been reported thus far in Virginia, the presence of tick-borne viruses poses a serious health threat, and the extent of their prevalence in Virginia is unknown. Here, we sought evidence of POWV, BRBV, and HRTV exposure in Virginia via a serological assessment of wildlife and livestock. Wildlife in Virginia were found to be seropositive against POWV (18%), BRBV (8%), and HRTV (5%), with western and northern regions of the state having a higher prevalence. Multiple wildlife species were shown to have been exposed to each virus examined. To a lesser extent, cattle also showed exposure to tick-borne viruses, with seroprevalences of 1%, 1.2%, and 8% detected in cattle against POWV, BRBV, and HRTV, respectively. Cross-reactivity against other known circulating mosquito-borne flaviviruses was ruled out. In conclusion, there is widespread exposure to tick-borne viruses in western and northern Virginia, with exposure to a diverse range of animal populations. Our study provides the first confirmation that HRTV is circulating in the Commonwealth. These findings strengthen the existing evidence of emerging tick-borne viruses in Virginia and highlight the need for public health vigilance to avoid tick bites.

A randomized controlled trial on COGITO, a free self-help smartphone app to enhance mental well-being

BackgroundSmartphone apps may help to prevent the transition from minor to severe mental health problems. We compared a free self-help smartphone app (COGITO; www.uke.de/cogito_app) against a wait-list condition for the improvement of self-esteem and depression. MethodsThe Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale represented the primary outcome in this controlled trial. The final sample (n = 213) was randomly assigned to either the app or to the control condition. ResultsThe app condition significantly improved the primary outcome relative to controls for all analyses. Satisfaction of completers was high. The present results warrant independent replication; the retention rate needs to be increased to allow solid inferences about acceptance. ConclusionsThe present study demonstrates that the COGITO app may represent an effective self-help tool for psychological problems.

Determinants of severity levels of anemia among pregnant women in Sub-Saharan Africa: multilevel analysis.

Anemia is a severe public health problem affecting 54% of pregnant women in SSA Yet, only a limited number of studies have provided a partial assessment of the pooled prevalence and related determinants of the severity levels of anemia in pregnant women in SSA. Therefore, this study provides the most recent estimates of anemia severity levels and related determinants. The most recent Demographic Health Survey (DHS) dataset of 21 Sub-Saharan African countries which were collected between 2015 and 2022 were used. A total of 14,098 pregnant women were included. Multilevel ordinal logistic regression was used. The pooled prevalence of anemia was 51.26%. Pregnant women who were in the old age groups, and who have attended secondary and higher education were less likely to be at higher levels of anemia. Those women who have given birth to >1 children in the last 5 years, pregnant women in second and third trimester and living in poorest households had greater odds of being at higher levels of anemia. In Sub-Saharan Africa, anemia is a severe public health concern for pregnant mothers. When developing and implementing strategies for the prevention and control of anemia, it is imperative to take into account the individual and community circumstances. Programs for the prevention and control of anemia should incorporate the economic and educational empowerment of women.

Mental health in genocide: Balancing between posttraumatic distress and growth among displaced Yazidi mothers

Background The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) committed genocide of the Yazidis in Sinjar 2014, resulting in dispersion and enslavement. Research shows severe mental health problems, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among survivors, but less is known about their resources and strengths, conceptualized as posttraumatic growth (PTG). Aims are to examine the balance between symptoms and strengths among Yazidi women caring for their infants by identifying groups differing in PTSD and PTG, and analyze how demographic, obstetric, and infant-related factors associate with the groups. Method Participants were 283 Yazidi mothers with their 1-18-month-old infants displaced in Kurdish Region of North Iraq. PTSD symptoms were measured by Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and PTG by the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. Results identified four groups: “Severe symptoms and low growth” (39%), “Low symptoms and moderate growth” (38%), “Moderate symptoms and very high growth” (13%), and “Moderate symptoms and low growth” (10%). Low education, economic difficulties and obstetric problems related to the “Severe symptoms and low growth” group, whereas newborn and infant health problems did not have an impact. Conclusion Effective help for genocide survivors should both alleviate suffering and encourage resources through tools of recreating a sense of cultural security and pride.

Introducing a Possible Proteomic and Genomic Biomarker Panel Related to Methanol Poisoning: A Review

Context: Methanol is one of the simplest organic compounds widely used in industry. It is highly toxic and unfit for human consumption. The abuse of methanol-containing beverages is becoming a severe health problem. This review discusses new clinical and pathological manifestations alongside proteomic and genomic changes based on methanol's toxic effects. Evidence Acquisition: Medical literature was reviewed in Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed to examine the effect of methanol intoxication on proteomic and genomic changes in the human body. Results: The results revealed the rapid direct absorption of methanol and its spread in body tissues. Various side effects, from digestive problems to neurological disorders, blindness, and death, could occur depending on the consumed dosage. Methanol poisoning causes extensive changes at the protein level, affecting blood coagulation, vitamin metabolism, immune response, and lipid transport processes. Methanol could alter the gene expression profile pattern by increasing the production of free radical species, which cause changes in DNA nucleotides. Conclusions: In conclusion, since methanol poisoning is associated with serious adverse effects (protein expression changes) and mortality, it should be managed seriously and promptly.

Plaintiff S99: Rewriting Refugee Law Through a Trauma-Informed Lens

Abstract Plaintiff S99/2016 v. Minister for Immigration and Border Protection [2016] FCA 483 was a decision of the Australian Federal Court concerning a woman (referred to in the decision as “Plaintiff S99”) who had been recognised as a refugee in the Republic of Nauru, having been transferred there by Australia under an offshore processing agreement. The decision in Plaintiff S99 established an important precedent that many refugees and asylum-seekers in Australia’s offshore processing centres on Manus and Nauru, including children with severe health problems, subsequently relied upon to be transferred to Australia for critical medical care. Drawing on the recent turn towards trauma-informed practice across other areas of law and policy, we ask: what does this mean for refugees, and, more specifically, what does this mean for judgment writing in refugee law? We use our rewrite of Plaintiff S99 to highlight aspects of the decision and its legacy that continue to silence and erase the experiences of refugees, especially refugee women, and frequently contribute to compounding their trauma. Our contribution calls for a reorientation towards “do no harm” principles, which lie at the heart of trauma and violence-informed practice. In particular, our approach to rewriting S99 aims at foregrounding dignity and safety, promoting respect for physical and mental health, and centring the voice, experience, and longer-term protection needs of refugees.

Navigating the Storm: Coping with Conflict and Political Change for Mental Health Resilience

The severe impact of conflicts-which often occur in chaotic and unstable environments-has on mental health, both for people and communities. South-East Asia incurs a disproportionately significant invisible cost to mental health due to persistent political instability, global conflicts, and terrorism.1 These events may induce anxiety and stress, which may culminate in an array of mental health issues, including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and generalized anxiety disorders. These circumstances are rendered more catastrophic by the continuous threat of violence, displacement, and loss, which makes it challenging for people to retain their resilience in terms of mental health. For example, the prolonged conflict in Kashmir has had a significant impact on people’s mental health in the region.2 Several psychological wounds are the result of sustained violence and uncertainty. Similarly, millions of people in the region have experienced suffering and grief because of terrorism and political unrest.2 Communities impacted by these crises in these areas have a cumulative strain on their mental health.3 The general well-being of these communities is declining due to various factors, including increased stress levels, restricted access to healthcare, and an atmosphere of uncertainty.4 The visible psychological impact on people and their neighbours underscores the importance of acknowledging the broader implications of these crises on mental health. To develop and maintain mental health resilience amid these challenges, people must learn coping mechanisms.5 Recognizing the seriousness of this issue is crucial, but so is offering those impacted resources and assistance. Numerous therapies and coping mechanisms may be helpful. Teaching individuals about the psychological consequences of political unrest and violence is one of academia’s most essential roles. Academic institutions may reduce stigma, increase awareness, and encourage people to seek assistance by conducting research and implementing educational programmes.6 To assist people and communities in overcoming trauma and developing resilience, mental health practitioners can provide psychosocial interventions like counselling and therapy.7 For those impacted, establishing support systems within communities may be a beneficial resource. These networks may allow people access to mental health experts and a safe atmosphere to discuss their feelings and experiences. Mental health professionals can conduct workshops on resilience building, and these sessions can offer valuable strategies and skills to improve psychological resilience in the face of hardship.8 Access to Services for Mental Health is imperative for governments and non-governmental organizations to guarantee that mental health treatments are easily accessible to individuals who require them.9 This involves encouraging the education and placement of mental health specialists in conflict-affected regions. Understanding and resolving the mental health issues brought on by political unrest and violence are critical tasks for academia. Research in this area is crucial to clarify the intricate relationship between political instability and mental health. Scholars can make the following contributions: Research and Data Analysis: Academic institutions might research to understand better the psychological impacts of political unrest and violence in Pakistan and South-east Asia.10 We can determine patterns and risk factors by gathering information and examining the mental health conditions of impacted groups. Policy Recommendations: Based on their research, academia might advocate policies to facilitate better access to mental health care in places affected by violence.11 When tackling the mental health problem, countries and international organizations can follow these guidelines. Public Awareness Initiatives: To de-stigmatize mental health concerns and motivate people to seek therapy, academia may initiate public awareness initiatives. Advertisements might also inform the public about the distinct symptoms and signs of diseases linked to trauma. Training and Capacity Building: Educational establishments have the potential to provide instruction to mental health professionals who can work in areas of conflict. The training may concentrate on culturally aware methods and the difficulties brought on by trauma associated with conflicts.9 There cannot be denying the relationship between political unrest, global conflicts, and terrorism and the impact they have on mental health. These situations have a profound impact on people and communities, frequently resulting in severe mental health problems. In addition to academia’s active participation, coping methods and treatments can assist in lessening these difficulties and support individuals who require it. Prioritizing mental health as the foundation of resilience is crucial as we address the ongoing conflicts in these areas. To address this critical issue and ensure that people and communities can manage the storm of political transition with their mental health, academic research, community support, and government policy must collaborate.

Home Treatment and Perinatal Psychiatry: An Alternative to Acute Psychiatric Wards

IntroductionWomen experiencing severe perinatal mental health problems require specialized services and care. Perinatal mental disorders are common and can contribute to maternal mortality, affecting neonatal, infant, and child outcomes. Home treatment can prevent hospital admissions and promote strategies within the patient’s support network.ObjectivesOur aim is to describe a clinical case in perinatal psychiatry managed by a Psychiatric Home Treatment Unit.MethodsWe present a case of perinatal psychotic depression in a 26-year-old pregnant woman.ResultsWe describe the case of a patient with no prior history of mental health issues. She was 25 weeks pregnant when she first sought psychiatric help in July 2023 and was diagnosed with depressive disorder with psychotic symptoms. She reported symptoms such as low mood, psychomotor inhibition, delusional guilt thoughts, and auditory hallucinations beginning three weeks before her initial visit. Due to her clinical presentation, the patient was admitted to the hospital, where pharmacological treatment was initiated with Olanzapine 5 mg, Sertraline 50 mg, and Lorazepam 1.5 mg. She remained in the hospital for four days, during which she showed gradual improvement but did not achieve full recovery.Considering the improvement observed, home treatment was proposed and accepted by the patient and her relatives. During home treatment, she continued to exhibit persistent depressive and psychotic symptoms, including low mood, inhibition, and delusional thoughts of ruin and catastrophe. Therefore, her treatment was adjusted, with Olanzapine increased to 10 mg, Sertraline raised to 100 mg, and Lorazepam reduced to 0.75 mg. Over time, significant improvement in her clinical symptoms was noted. Throughout the follow-up period, she reported no significant side effects from the pharmacological treatment. After a month of follow-up in our department, she was discharged with outpatient care provided by a specialized community perinatal psychiatric unit.ConclusionsWe illustrate the possibility of home treatment for perinatal psychiatric disorders. The potential benefits of remaining close to one’s support network and developing coping strategies can be advantageous during the course of illness. Further studies should be conducted to explore these potential benefits.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

A Method for Detecting Five Carbapenemases in Bacteria Based on CRISPR-Cas12a Multiple RPA Rapid Detection Technology.

As the last line of defense for clinical treatment, Carbapenem antibiotics are increasingly challenged by multi-drug resistant bacteria containing carbapenemases. The rapid spread of these multidrug-resistant bacteria is the greatest threat to severe global health problems. To solve the problem of rapid transmission of this multidrug-resistant bacteria, we have developed a rapid detection technology using CRPSPR-Cas12a gene editing based on multiple Recombinase polymerase amplification. This technical method can directly isolate the genes of carbapenemase-containing bacteria from samples, with a relatively short detection time of 30 minutes. The instrument used for the detection is relatively inexpensive. Only a water bath can complete the entire experiment of Recombinase polymerase amplification and trans cleavage. This reaction requires no lid during the entire process while reducing a large amount of aerosol pollution. The detection sensitivity of this method is 1.5 CFU/mL, and the specificity is 100%. This multi-scene detection method is suitable for screening populations in wild low-resource environments and large-scale indoor crowds. It can be widely used in hospital infection control and prevention and to provide theoretical insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

11 Novel Systematic Method for Identifying Congenital Anomaly Cases in Electronic Health Record Databases

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Congenital anomalies (CAs) affect 3% of live births, yet the cause of 80% of CAs is unknown and for the 20% with an identified cause, variability in penetrance suggests additional risk drivers exist. Our method for identifying and categorizing CAs in electronic health record (EHR) linked biobank databases can expand and improve CA etiologic research. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We identified individuals with CAs in three groups: 1. Those with at least one CA 2. Those with multiple CAs (MCA), those with two or more ‘major’ CAs, and 3. Those with CAs in a specific organ system. We also created a novel quantitative approach, using phenome-wide association studies (pheWAS), for determining CA-associated genetic disease billing codes in order to separate individuals that have a known genetic cause for their CAs from those with idiopathic CAs. We updated CA phecodes, aggregates of clinical billing codes, which we used to identify CA cases in Vanderbilt’s EHR-linked biobank database, BioVU. We create a new phecode, ‘All CAs’, for researchers to quickly identify all individuals with at least one CA. We evaluate the definition of MCA using pheWAS analyses to compare ‘minor’ vs ‘major’ CA. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: The new CA phecode nomenclature includes 5.8 times more codes for CAs compared with the previous version (365 vs 56), improving granularity. 85 (19.7%) CA-associated genetic disease billing codes were identified through literature review. PheWAS analyses revealed an additional 16 (3.7%) genetic disease billing codes with one or more significant (p< 2.75 x10-5) association with CA-related phecodes. Identifying CA-associated genetic disease billing codes allows researchers to differentiate between idiopathic CAs and those that have a known genetic cause. PheWAS analyses of individuals with previously considered “minor” CAs showed many associated severe health problems, revealing that the differentiation between “minor” vs “major” CAs when identifying individuals with MCA in the EHR is arbitrary. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Our CA identification method is scalable for the growing number of EHR-linked biobanks. Differentiating between idiopathic CAs from those with known causes will increase power in studies discovering additional genetic drivers of CAs. Our novel method allows for expansion and acceleration of CA epidemiological research in EHR-linked biobank data.

Patterns of adverse childhood experiences and associations with lower mental well-being among university students

BackgroundUniversity students report high levels of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which can lead to severe mental health problems. Understanding how ACEs impact well-being in this population is essential, yet research to date is limited. ObjectiveTo explore ACE patterns and their association with lower well-being in university students. Participants and setting1023 Spanish students (71.6 % female) aged between 18 and 64 years old (M = 20.10, SD = 3.93) completed a self-report questionnaire. MethodsThis study used a cross-sectional design. The ACE International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ) and the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale were used to assess, respectively, childhood adversities and mental well-being. Latent Class Analysis and regression modeling were conducted to analyze the link between ACEs and lower mental well-being, considering the covariates of age, country of origin, sexual orientation, and mental illness. ResultsFour ACE classes were identified: Low ACEs (49.5 %), Dysfunctional Household (12.3 %), Household and Peer Abuse (31.0 %), and High ACEs (7.2 %). The regression analysis (F(3, 1007) = 19.2, p < .001, R2adj = 0.054) successfully predicted well-being scores based on ACE classes. When compared with the Low ACE class, all other classes exhibited lower levels of well-being. Age, sexual orientation, and mental illness were also related to lower well-being, with mental illness having the strongest negative effect (β = −0.635, t(1015) = −6.49, p < .001). ConclusionsThese findings underscore the relationship between childhood adversity and mental health, offering insights for future prevention efforts and enriching our understanding of ACEs and their impact on well-being.

Antimicrobial Activity of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens BS4 against Gram-Negative Pathogenic Bacteria.

Worldwide, bacterial resistance is one of the most severe public health problems. Currently, the failure of antibiotics to counteract superbugs highlights the need to search for new molecules with antimicrobial potential to combat them. The objective of this research was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens BS4 against Gram-negative bacteria. Thirty yeasts and thirty-two Bacillus isolates were tested following the agar well-diffusion method. Four Bacillus sp. strains (BS3, BS4, BS17, and BS21) showed antagonistic activity against E. coli ATCC 25922 using bacterial culture (BC) and the cell-free supernatant (CFS), where the BS4 strain stood out, showing inhibitory values of 20.50 ± 0.70 mm and 19.67 ± 0.58 mm for BC and CFS, respectively. The Bacillus sp. BS4 strain can produce antioxidant, non-hemolytic, and antimicrobial metabolites that exhibit activity against several microorganisms such as Salmonella enterica, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella flexneri, Enterobacter aerogenes, Proteus vulgaris, Yersinia enterocolitica, Serratia marcescens, Aeromonas sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis. According to the characterization of the supernatant, the metabolites could be proteinaceous. The production of these metabolites is influenced by carbon and nitrogen sources. The most suitable medium to produce antimicrobial metabolites was TSB broth. The one-factor-at-a-time method was used to standardize parameters such as pH, agitation, temperature, carbon source, nitrogen source, and salts, resulting in the best conditions of pH 7, 150 rpm, 28 °C, starch (2.5 g/L), tryptone (20 g/L), and magnesium sulfate (0.2 g/L), respectively. Moreover, the co-culture was an excellent strategy to improve antimicrobial activity, achieving maximum antimicrobial activity with an inhibition zone of 21.85 ± 1.03 mm. These findings position the Bacillus amyloliquefaciens BS4 strain as a promising candidate for producing bioactive molecules with potential applications in human health.

A smart KPI system for reinforcing sustainable urban mobility plans under pandemic crises

The latest worldwide application of social distancing measures highlighted dramatic effects on the daily life, mobility, well-being, mental health, and economic activity of citizens during the pandemic. Unfortunately, societies were unprepared to confront a pandemic and applied movement restriction measures, often harsh and unbalanced, creating confusion, uncertainty, and annoyance to communities. In this paper, we reviewed a wide array of databases to categorise the mobility management measures implemented internationally in response to the social distancing restrictions that had to be taken during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, to comprehensively assess the measures implemented to contain the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of the local community, we conducted focus group interviews with specific population groups that may have been affected to a greater extent. These groups consisted of vulnerable road users, such as mobility-impaired people and people who are facing severe health problems, representatives of the local economy and businesses and representatives of institutional stakeholders and policymakers. Our research showed that in the post-pandemic era, accessibility and not mobility should be at the heart of economic and social welfare. At the same time, the assurance of physical activity, which is strongly associated with the mental health of citizens, and the protection of the local economy are issues of outermost importance. However, local authorities were unprepared to manage these issues and often made fragmented and punitive decisions. By recognising the need for a regional or metropolitan emergency mechanism, this study aims to introduce a new system of indicators specifically adapted to the particularities and challenges encountered during the pandemic, accounts for local communities' unique needs and requirements, and complies with the general principles of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs). In the future, the SUMP methodology should be revised to be able to handle and manage mobility systems under pandemic conditions.

Two silent epidemics: air pollution and climate change. “Slow and sustainable medicine” as part of the solution

Human health is one of the earliest biosensors of climate change, which increases the frequency and severity of many diseases, as reported by Bellone.1 In Europe, air pollution is becoming a severe health problem that needs to be addressed by physicians of all specialties as well as governments and the general public. Unfortunately, it is acknowledged that the Po Valley in Italy is among the most polluted areas in Europe. As physicians practicing in this area, we feel we must remind our colleagues of the increasing impact of the environment on the health of ourselves and our patients. Along with having a substantial negative influence on both human and environmental health, air pollution also has a financial cost since it raises medical expenses and reduces productivity due to missed workdays. We can define this situation as a silent epidemic that affects all people, regardless of age. [...]

Psychedelic-assisted therapy for people with gambling disorder?

Gambling disorder is a severe mental health and behavioural problem with harmful consequences, including financial, relationship and mental health problems. The present paper initiates discussion on the use of psychedelics combined with psychotherapeutic support as a potential treatment option for people living with a gambling disorder. Recent studies have shown promising results using psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) to treat anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and various substance use disorders. Considering the similarities in the underlying psychosocial and neurobiological mechanisms of gambling disorder and other addictive disorders, the authors suggest that psychedelic-assisted therapy could be effective in treating gambling disorder. The paper also underscores the need for further research into the viability and effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted therapy for gambling disorder.

Global, regional, and national incidence trends of depressive disorder, 1990–2019: An age-period-cohort analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease 2019 study

BackgroundDepressive disorder is a severe global public health problem. It is crucial to evaluate the global incidence trends of depressive disorder. MethodsThe incidence data were drawn from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019. Estimates were presented by global and sociodemographic index (SDI) quintiles, and the age-period-cohort (APC) model was used to estimate the incidence trends. ResultsAPC analysis indicated a decline in depressive disorder incidence globally (net drift = −0.24%, 95%CI: −0.29, −0.18), except for an increase in SDI regions (net drift = 0.07, 95%CI:0, 0.14). In high SDI regions, depressive disorder incidence increased among the younger and declined among the elder population, whereas the opposite trend was observed in middle and low-middle SDI regions. The depressive disorder incidence increased significantly among people aged 15 to 24 years after adjusting for age effects, decreased since 2000 after adjusting for period effects and increased rapidly in the birth cohort after 1990 in high SDI by adjusting for cohort effects. ConclusionGlobally, there was a declining trend of depressive disorder incidence in 1990–2019. Specifically, the incidence was declining globally in younger populations, while increasing in older populations. However, this trend differed depending on the SDI of the region.

Traumatic experiences and mental health status for female ethnic minority adolescents and young adults on the run from their families due to negative social control

ABSTRACT This study addresses family-related violence against ethnic minority women, a global public health concern. The study aims to investigate various forms of negative social control experienced by this group at the Safehouse, assess their mental health status, examine the links between negative social control and mental health outcomes, and the impact of other potentially traumatic events in this context. Data was collected at a safehouse with 86 young Danish ethnic minority women, who have been sheltered due to experiences of negative social control in the family. Measures included the ICD-11 Trauma Questionnaire, Life Event Checklist, Beck Youth Inventories, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory as well as background information, where respondents were asked whether they had experienced negative social control, violence etc. and sociodemographic characteristics. Findings indicate severe mental health consequences, such as high prevalence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (50.7%) and Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD) (29.9%), as well as severe symptoms of depression and anxiety in a large proportion of the respondents. Furthermore, correlations suggested that negative social control might play an important role in the development of e.g. PTSD. A hierarchical regression analysis including negative social control, explained 35.5% of the PTSD symptomatology. Most of the young people who seeks shelter at a Safehouse suffer from severe mental health problems due to violence and negative social control. The clinical implications of the findings are discussed. Future research should further focus on psychological sequelae in a prospective design. The development and validation of a measure for negative social control would contribute greatly to this area of research.

Nickel induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition in pulmonary fibrosis in mice via activation of the oxidative stress-mediated TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.

Nickel (Ni) is recognized as a carcinogenic metal, and its widespread use has led to severe environmental and health problems. Although the lung is among the main organs affected by Ni, the precise mechanisms behind this effect remain poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the physiological mechanisms underlying Ni-induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF), using various techniques including histopathological detection, biochemical analysis, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and quantitative real-time PCR. Mice were treated with nickel chloride (NiCl2), which induced PF (detected by Masson staining), up-regulation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen-1 mRNA and protein expression. NiCl2 was found to induce PF by: activation of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad signaling pathway; up-regulation of protein and mRNA expression of TGF-β1, p-Smad2, p-Smad3, vimentin, and N-cadherin; and down-regulation of protein and mRNA expression of E-cadherin. In addition, NiCl2 treatment increased malondialdehyde content while inhibiting antioxidant activity, as indicated by decreased catalase, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase activities, and glutathione content. Co-treatment with the effective antioxidant and free radical scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) plus NiCl2 was used to study the effects of oxidative stress in NiCl2-induced PF. The addition of NAC significantly mitigated NiCl2-induced PF, and reversed activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway and EMT. NiCl2-induced PF was therefore shown to be due to EMT activation via the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, mediated by oxidative stress.

Psychotherapy unchained: The Comprehend, Cope and Connect approach

The role of the Comprehend, Cope and Connect model in embedding a psychotherapeutic approach throughout a team, and making such an approach available to those with severe mental health problems, is outlined. The model is explained: its starting point in felt sense; its distributed model of the self, and its co-produced, trauma informed formulation that leads to new ways of coping with the internal state, which can be supported by a wider team. The way in which this makes a psychotherapeutic approach, with emphasis on the power of relationship, available to acute psychiatric and other services providing for those with severe mental health problems, is outlined. The inclusion of spirituality and its applicability to diverse populations is also covered, along with its, so far limited, research base.