The concept of “musicians’ health” has emerged as a specific field of study (Bonde et al. 2018). Amateur engagement with music or music listening has been repeatedly associated with beneficial effects on both physical and mental health (Theorell & Kreutz 2012).

This study aimed to compare depression, anxiety, stress, somatization, and somatic symptom amplification levels among professional musicians, amateur musicians, and individuals with no involvement in music, in order to clarify whether different types of musical engagement influence mental health outcomes.

This descriptive study included three groups: (1) professional musicians whose occupation and livelihood depend on music, (2) amateur musicians engaged in music as a hobby, and (3) individuals who had never practiced music either professionally or as a hobby. Participants were recruited via online survey links. After informed consent, they completed a sociodemographic form, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), the Somatosensory Amplification Scale( SSAS), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc tests.

Sociodemographic characteristics are summarized in Table 1. As shown in Table 2, there were significant differences among groups in DASS-21 depression, anxiety, stress, SSAS, and PHQ-15 scores. Professional musicians had the highest mean scores across all measures.Table 1.

Sociodemographic characteristics of participants

Professional musicians demonstrated significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety, stress, somatization, and somatosensory amplification compared with both amateur musicians and non-musicians. Elevated somatization in this group is noteworthy and may be linked to comorbid stress, anxiety, and depression. Professional musicians may therefore represent a population at risk for psychosomatic conditions, highlighting the need for targeted preventive and therapeutic approaches.

None Declared

Antenatal psychological morbidities, encompassing depression, anxiety, and stress, are pervasive yet frequently underrecognized, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. These conditions jeopardize maternal well-being and fetal outcomes, accentuating the imperative for timely detection and intervention

This study aimed to delineate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among pregnant women and elucidate their associations with gestational age, obstetric complications, and pregnancy intentionality.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 200 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. Psychological outcomes were measured using the Urdu-adapted Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), demonstrating acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha: depression > 0.70; anxiety = 0.776; stress = 0.821). Associations between mental health indices, gestational age, obstetric complications, and pregnancy intent were evaluated via chi-square tests.

Depression was observed in 46% of participants, with 28.5% manifesting moderate and 3% exhibiting extremely severe symptomatology. Depression correlated significantly with obstetric complications (χ² = 126.218, p < .001), particularly histories of abortion and hypertension, and with gestational age (χ² = 32.998, p < .001), peaking in the third trimester. Anxiety and stress exhibited analogous associations with complications (anxiety χ² = 152.274; stress χ² = 134.864; p < .001) and trimester (anxiety χ² = 45.551; stress χ² = 65.183; p < .001). Women with obstetric complications, anemia, or hypertension reported heightened psychological distress, particularly in advanced gestation. Paradoxically, planned pregnancies were linked with more severe depression (χ² = 12.747, p = .005), whereas stress severity was not significantly modulated by pregnancy intentionality.

Approximately half of pregnant women experienced depressive symptomatology, with one-third attaining clinically significant severity. Psychological morbidity was strongly associated with advancing gestation and adverse obstetric history. The disproportionate burden of extreme depression among women with planned pregnancies may reflect sociocultural imperatives, including gendered expectations. These findings underscore the necessity for systematic antenatal mental health screening and culturally attuned psychosocial interventions targeting medically and socially vulnerable populations.

None Declared

In recent years, an increasing body of research has focused on the effects of positive expressive writing, defined as the written narration of emotionally rewarding experiences, as a tool for promoting psychological well-being. This approach differs from traditional expressive writing, which focuses on traumatic or stressful events, and instead emphasizes the enhancement of positive experiences. The theoretical framework within which the present study is situated is that of ‘positive psychology’, a scientific movement, focused on the analysis of personality traits and applied methodologies that can promote psychological well-being.

This ongoing study aims to investigate the effects of positive expressive writing on specific psychological parameters (mood states), considering the moderating role of locus of control (internal vs. external).

The study sample consists of 40 individuals (age: M=45, SD=6.86; gender: male=11, female=29). The experimental subjects are all individuals who report no psychological or medical conditions. They participated in the experiment voluntarily. Participants were asked to write for 20 minutes a day over three consecutive days about the most rewarding experience in their life. To measure the effects of the intervention, the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and The Locus of Control of Behavior (LCB) were administered at three time points: baseline, post-intervention (Day 3), and follow-up (Day 7). The LCB is a questionnaire designed to measure the locus of control (internal/external). The POMS assesses six mood states: Tension-Anxiety, Depression-Dejection, Anger-Hostility, Vigor-Activity, Fatigue-Inertia, and Confusion-Bewilderment. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to analyze the interaction between locus of control type and psychological outcomes. Specific hypotheses were further explored using post-hoc LSD tests.

Preliminary data show that participants with an external locus of control reported a significant reduction in depression (POMS factor D) from baseline to the 7-day follow-up (13.30 → 8.17; p < .05). Additionally, a progressive decrease in fatigue (POMS factor F) was observed both at Day 3 (9.83 → 7.50; p < .05) and Day 7 (9.83 → 6.50; p < .005), again in the external locus group.

Initial findings suggest that positive expressive writing may have more pronounced benefits for individuals with an external locus of control, possibly due to their greater ability to reframe positive experiences as independent of personal agency. This dispositional trait appears to enhance the intervention’s effectiveness in regulating mood and reducing fatigue. The continuation of the research will clarify whether this trend remains consistent as the sample size increases. The study, still in progress, highlights promising directions for the use of positive writing techniques in promoting psychological well-being.

None Declared

There is increasing recognition of the need to broaden the scope of psychiatry to include primary prevention. Emerging frameworks integrate well-being science, social determinants of health, lifestyle psychiatry, and the cultivation of cultural and structural competence to address issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Within this context, resilience is increasingly understood as a key protective factor that can enhance mental well-being, reduce vulnerability to psychiatric illness, and promote recovery.

This project aims to translate the Multi-System Model of Resilience (MSMR) into an accessible, evidence-informed digital platform that empowers individuals to strengthen resilience across multiple domains.

The MSMR conceptualizes resilience as a dynamic, relational process shaped by biological, psychological, social, cultural, and ecological systems. It emphasizes that resilience is not simply an inherent trait but the outcome of interactions across multiple layers of influence. Within this framework, MSMR describes three interrelated systems: (1) Internal Resilience, grounded in physiological regulation and psychological skills; (2) Values and Coping, which bridges internal and external systems through meaning-making, problem-solving, and flexibility; and (3) External Resilience, which encompasses family, community, structural, and ecological resources. Drawing from this model, Resilience Buddy was designed as an app comprising nine structured modules. Each module integrates interactive psychoeducational activities, experiential exercises, and brief guided meditations tailored to build capacities across the three resilience systems.

A preliminary pilot with five participants yielded encouraging results, with positive feedback regarding both usability and acceptability, measured using the Usability Metric for User Experience (UMUX). Participants highlighted the clarity, accessibility, and relevance of the content. Recruitment is currently underway for a larger pilot trial with 30 participants. This study will provide additional data on feasibility, user experience, and preliminary outcomes related to resilience enhancement. Detailed findings, including module design, engagement metrics, and preliminary outcome data, will be presented at the conference.

Resilience Buddy represents an innovative, scalable approach to promoting mental well-being through a multi-system resilience framework. By situating resilience within interacting biological, psychological, social, and structural contexts, it challenges individualizing or pathologizing narratives and promotes culturally sensitive, equity-oriented strategies for prevention. Preliminary findings suggest that digital, interactive resilience training is both feasible and engaging, with the potential to complement existing mental health interventions and strengthen population-level mental health promotion.

None Declared

Diplomatic personnel and their families face unique psychosocial stressors, including frequent relocations, limited autonomy, and deployment to high-risk environments. Despite potential psychiatric consequences, systematic evidence remains scarce.

To synthesise empirical findings on mental health outcomes, occupational stressors, coping resources, and family experiences in order to inform institutional support and policy.

Systematic searches of Web of Science and Scopus (April 2024) were conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies included empirical, peer-reviewed research addressing the psychological wellbeing of diplomats or their families. Six studies met inclusion criteria. Given methodological heterogeneity, findings were synthesised narratively.

Stressors identified included heavy workload, constrained autonomy, relocations, and deployment to hardship or conflict zones. Outcomes encompassed elevated stress, burnout, and reduced quality of life, with higher PTSD symptoms in conflict postings. Protective factors comprised social support, self-efficacy, and dual national identification. Spouses reported emotional strain, isolation, and insufficient institutional recognition, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Diplomatic service entails specific psychological vulnerabilities. Evidence highlights the importance of psychosocial preparation, family-inclusive policies, and culturally responsive support. Future studies should adopt longitudinal designs and evaluate targeted interventions to improve wellbeing in foreign service populations.

None Declared

Leisure travel has the potential to enhance the emotional and mental health of older adults, who face unique well-being challenges.

This study seeks to: a) explore older adults’ emotional experiences related to leisure travel; and b) examine the impact of leisure travel on their mental health.

A sample of 588 older adults, aged between 65 and 81 years (M = 72.7; SD = 4.31) and representing three nationalities, participated in this study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and content analysis was applied to the collected data.

For the first objective, eight themes emerged: (1) Reduced feelings of loneliness and social isolation (88.3%); (2) Boosted self-confidence (84.9%); (3) Development of meaningful social connections (75.2%); (4) Increased opportunities for physical movement (70.1%); (5) Experiences of personal growth (66.4%); (6) Strengthened sense of autonomy (61.2%); (7) Enhanced ability to manage stress and challenges (59.5%); and (8) Greater overall sense of well-being (57.3%). For the second objective, four themes emerged: (1) Lower depressive symptoms (78.3%), (2) Alleviation of anxiety and stress (77.3%), (3) Improved cognitive adaptability (75.3%), and (4) Better sleep patterns (63.9%). Portuguese older adults primarily emphasized reduced feelings of loneliness and social isolation as well as alleviation of stress and anxiety. English older adults highlighted the development of meaningful social connections and lower depressive symptoms, while Brazilian participants focused on increased opportunities for physical movement and improved cognitive adaptability.

Leisure travel enriches the lives of older adults by boosting mental health, underscoring its important role in supporting comprehensive well-being during later years.

Keywords: Leisure traveling; older adults; mental health; emotional experiences; qualitative study.

None Declared

Insomnia is one of the most prevalent sleep disorders among young adults, particularly university students, and is associated with impaired daily functioning, psychiatric comorbidities, and increased health risks. Despite the high burden, few studies have examined multidimensional risk factors in Korean college populations.

This study aimed to investigate sociodemographic, behavioral, and psychological correlates of insomnia among young college students in Korea.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 5,273 students aged 19–34 years from 14 universities in Jeollanam-do, Korea. Participants completed validated questionnaires including the Korean version of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI-K), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7). Sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics such as gender, residential status, socioeconomic perception, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and smartphone use were also assessed. Group comparisons and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify independent predictors of insomnia risk, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Overall, 31.1% of participants were classified as being at risk for insomnia (ISI-K ≥ 8). Females had a significantly higher prevalence compared with males (56.8% vs. 43.2%, p = 0.016). Living alone, low perceived socioeconomic status, and lack of close friendships were associated with elevated insomnia risk. Smoking (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.37–1.86, p < 0.001) and alcohol use (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.02–1.49, p = 0.030) emerged as significant behavioral factors. In contrast, caffeine consumption and smartphone use did not show significant associations. Psychological distress was the strongest predictor: depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥ 21) increased insomnia risk more than five-fold (OR = 5.26, 95% CI: 4.22–6.54), and anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 ≥ 10) tripled the risk (OR = 3.03, 95% CI: 2.14–4.29).

This study demonstrates that insomnia in university students is shaped by an interplay of demographic, psychosocial, and mental health factors rather than lifestyle behaviors alone. Depression and anxiety were the most powerful predictors, underscoring the need for early psychological screening and integrated mental health interventions. Public health strategies in Korea should incorporate structured sleep education, counseling services, and policies that strengthen social and economic support systems for young adults.

None Declared

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are genetically and clinically heterogeneous, which complicates diagnosis and treatment. Recent genomic research aims to clarify the complex genetic architecture of ASD to enable precision medicine approaches.

This literature review summarizes the results of recent large-cohort genomic studies, whole genome sequencing (WGS), gene discovery efforts and computer analyses published between 2023 and 2025, with an emphasis on the usefulness of genetic tests, subtype classification and integrative genomic approaches.

We conducted a comprehensive review of the scientific literature using the following keywords: Precision medicine, Autism, Genomics.

Major advances in autism genomics research include the identification of more than 230 new genes and the recognition of distinct autism subtypes. In fact, in a large study analyzing over than 5,000 autistic children, an integrative approach of extensive behavioral traits with genetic data using advanced computational models identifies four subtypes of autism. While the “social and behavioral” and “moderate challenge” groups, reach the developmental stages on time and differ mainly in the severity of the symptoms or in the concomitant conditions, the “mixed challenges” and “broadly affected” groups, face delays and more complex features. One subtype shows high rates of de novo mutations affecting prenatal brain development, while another with predominant social and behavioral challenges involves genes active postnatally, suggesting diverse biological timelines for autism manifestation. This subtype classification marks a paradigm shift toward precision medicine in autism by enabling more accurate diagnosis and personalized care based on genetic and clinical subtypes. Overall, the results reflect a transition from large-scale gene discovery to integrative genomic, phenotypic and computational approaches that allow a subtype-specific understanding of autism, supporting early diagnosis, familial counselling, personalized treatments and better clinical outcomes. These advances lays the foundations for precision psychiatry approaches adapted to various ASD profiles.

These results highlight the genetic and clinical diversity of autism spectrum disorders, the efficiency of WGS compared to other genetic tests, as well as the power of the integration of AI and explainable computer models to improve the understanding of the heterogeneity of ASD. Other new findings, include common co-occurring conditions: epilepsy and intellectual disability as well as autism and myotonic dystrophy 1 du to disrupted gene splicing that affects brain function and social behavior.

None Declared

Chromatinopathies encompass a group of neurodevelopmental disorders caused by genetic alterations affecting the structure and regulation of chromatin. Among them, histonopathies result from germline mutations in the genes encoding histone proteins, which form the fundamental structural unit of chromatin (the nucleosomic fiber), essential for DNA compaction and epigenetic modulation of gene expression.

This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on histonopathies and to outline clinical and psychiatric manifestations, for guiding early recognition and genetic diagnosis in affected individuals.

We have carried out a review of recent publications on histonopathies, with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms involved, the associated syndromes (in particular the HIST1H1E syndrome, Bryant-Li-Bhoj and Tessadori-Bicknell-van Haaften syndromes) as well as the clinical manifestations including facial dysmorphy and psychiatric features.

The mutations leading to histonopathies affect various histone genes (HIST1H1E, HIST1H2AL, HIST1H3D, HIST3H3, among others), disrupting chromatin dynamics and gene expression. Clinically, these mutations result in a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders with intellectual retardation, language impairment, motor delay, often marked but heterogenous craniofacial dysmorphism, as well as frequent psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, and attention disorders. Phenotypic and age-dependent evolutionary variability complicates clinical recognition, highlighting the need for molecular diagnosis by next-generation sequencing essential.

Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms and associated syndromes is essential to raise clinician awareness and facilitate early referral for appropriate genetic exploration. In the absence of specific treatment, multidisciplinary management targeting both neurodevelopmental and psychiatric aspects can improve the quality of life of patients. These findings also pave the way for future therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic modulation.

None Declared

Advances in psychiatric genetics link synaptic plasticity to schizophrenia (SZ), though specific mechanisms remain unclear. This process depends on rapid molecular regulation, where mRNA transport from soma to synapses via neurites plays a key role. Studying mRNAs localized in neurites may provide new insights into the involvement of mRNA transport and availability regulation processes in SZ.

We aimed: i) to calculate the SZ polygenic risk score based on neurite-localized transcripts and compare it between healthy controls and SZ patients; and, ii) to test its association with clinical variables and brain structure.

We selected 70 neurite-localized transcripts, consistently identified in more than 15 transcriptomic studies comparing soma and neurite content (von Kügelgen et al., 2020). In a sample of 115 controls and 169 patients with SZ, we calculated the polygenic risk score (PRS) using PRSet, grouping SNPs near these transcripts (±10 kb). The resulting PRS (nPRS) was evaluated in relation to diagnosis, clinical variables (age at onset and PANSS scores), and brain structural measures (cortical surface area and thickness).

The nPRS did not differ between patients and controls, but it was associated with age at onset (β=5158.09, SE=2518.78, p=0.04) and showed a trend with the positive PANSS dimension scores (β=–4110.00, SE=2303.00, p=0.08). Additionally, an association was also observed between the nPRS and the surface area of the left frontal pole (β=39,800; SE=9,373; t=4.243; p<0.001) in patients.

Our data suggest that the genetic load associated with neurite-localized mRNAs is related to clinical and brain features of SZ, supporting the hypothesis that transcript transport and regulation mechanisms play a relevant role in its pathophysiology.

Instituto de Salud Carlos III through the PFIS contract (NH, FI21/00093), the Miguel Servet contract (MF-V, CP20/00072), JdC post-doctoral fellowship (MG-R, JDC2023-050677-I), Fundació Marató C/40/2022, grant funded by MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and “ESF Investing in your future” (DH-E, PRE2021-100310)

None Declared

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are age related but appear to be more prevalent in depressed patients.

We aimed to assess whether WMHs are associated with depressive symptoms and physical performance in Alzheimer`s disease(AD)

One hundred twenty one

AD who visited the Psychiatriy department of Jeju National University Hospital underwent MRI scans. The volume of WMHs was quantified using Lesion Segmentation Toolbox (LST) which allows the performance of accurate brain tissue volume measurements without any kind of manual intervention. After then, for the volume of WMHs, we used a logarithmic transformation to produce normally distributed data. Subjects were assessed for depressive symptoms (GDS-15), cognitive (CERAD-K) and physical (muscle mass index, grip strength, gait speed and timed up and go test) functions. Korean Frailty Index (K-FI) also performed.

WMHs of presumed vascular origin, also referred to as leukoaraiosis, are a very common finding on brain MRI or computed tomography (CT) in older subjects. Most recent studies have shown that WMHs are associated with a host of poor outcomes, including cognitive impairment, depression, gait disturbance and increased risk of death. Thus, it is important to determine the impact of WMHs on mood, physical and cognitive function in AD. In 121 subjects, the mean age was 80.6±7.7.

After analysis, we found that the degree of WMHs was associated with higher depression scores after controlling for age, sex, sum of box and estimated total intracranial volume(p=0.023). Gait speed(p<0.001), timed up and go test(p=0.02), and FI(p=0.002) were significantly associated with the degree of WMHs, though not cognitive function assessed by CERAD-K.

In AD, the degree of WMHs was associated with depressive symptoms as well as gait and balance impairment, though not cognitive function. However, there were further study is required to identify the association between WMHs and other variables.

None Declared

Cellular responses to oxidative stress have been consistently implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia (SCH), potentially impacting key cellular processes. Cellular proliferation and metabolic viability, which are directly linked to redox homeostasis, remain poorly understood in this context despite their recognized importance for neuronal health.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether neural precursors from SCH patients display altered proliferative capacity and cell viability under oxidative stress, to identify disease-related differences in stress responses that could serve as potential therapeutic targets.

Neural precursors were isolated from olfactory neuroepithelium biopsies obtained from SCH patients (N=6) and matched healthy controls (N=5) enrolled in the MINDS cohort (Mental Illness Neuroepithelium Derived Samples). Cells were exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) as an inducer of oxidative stress, and cellular proliferation and viability were assessed using the SRB and MTT assays at 0 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h post-treatment.

Neural precursors from SCH patients displayed a slight reduction in proliferation compared to controls starting at 48 h. When exposed to an oxidative stress environment induced by H₂O₂, both SCH and control cells showed an approximate 50% decrease in proliferation relative to untreated conditions, with differences between groups becoming evident at 24 h post-exposure, when SCH-derived cells exhibited a more pronounced reduction in proliferative capacity. In parallel, cell viability remained stable over time under basal conditions in both groups, but following H₂O₂ exposure a marked decline was observed at 24 h in both SCH and control cells. Interestingly, while viability continued to decrease in controls, SCH-derived cells displayed a progressive recovery over time, ultimately showing higher viability compared to controls

Exposure to an oxidative stress environment impairs the proliferative potential of SCH-derived neural precursors, while simultaneously revealing an adaptive response characterized by enhanced survival capacity. This may reflect a cellular “conditioning” effect, where chronic stress promotes increased resistance to oxidative damage, as described in other contexts such as chronic training (PMID: 22215375) and aging (PMID: 38459002).

None Declared

Telomeres, non-coding DNA sequences protecting the ends of chromosomes, are biomarkers of cellular ageing. Individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) have shorter telomere length (TL) compared to the general population, though the underlying molecular mechanism is unknown. TL homeostasis is regulated by 3 multiprotein complexes: the telomerase holoenzyme, the Shelterin and the CST complex. Lithium (Li) and valproic acid (VPA) are two commonly prescribed mood stabilizers for BD. Three studies has examined the potential protective effect of Li on TL or the expression of TERT (Telomerase reverse transcriptase), the catalytic subunit of telomerase in in-vitro models with conflicting results (Fries et al.j.jpsychires.2020),(Squassina et al. j.euroneuro.2016)(Squassina et al.Hum Genomics.2022). No data are available on other proteins within the three complexes, the measure of telomerase activity(TA) as well as on the effects of VPA.

This study aims to evaluate the impact of Li and VPA on the telomere homeostasis system in a neuronal in-vitro model.

SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were cultured with Li or VPA at therapeutic range concentrations. Cells were collected after 7, 14 and 21 days of exposure. Then, measure of gene expression of 16 genes encoding proteins of the 3 complexes was conducted using RT-qPCR, measure of TERT protein levels using Wester-blot, telomerase activity (TA) analysis using a Telomeric Repeat Amplification Protocol assay and TL analysis using qPCR. Group comparisons were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test with the R software.

No significant changes were identified between all analysed parameters of cells exposed to Li compared to controls at any time of exposure. However, for VPA, 7 out of 16 genes of the three complexess were altered at D7, D14 or D21 following distincts kinetics, including a downregulation of TERT (p=0.001). Additionally, at D21, TERT protein levels and TA were decreased compared to controls (p=0.02 and p=0.004). However, no changes in TL were observed at any time of exposure.

In the neuroblastoma model Li shows no protective effect on the telomere homeostasis system. VPA negatively impacts telomere homeostasis by limiting TA through the downregulation of TERT and a decrease in TERT protein levels at D21. It also alters the expression of multiple other genes within the three complexes. However, without significant changes in TL. The reduction in TA observed only at D21 suggests that a longer duration may be necessary to affect TL. The presence of alternative telomere lengthening mechanisms in SH-SY5Y cells (activated when TERT is supressed) could also explain these findings. Since the telomere homeostasis system is altered in cancer cells such as SH-SY5Y, similar analyses should be conducted in other in-vitro models with extended exposure durations.

None Declared

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is characterized by genuine neurological symptoms without structural explanation, often mimicking neuromuscular disease(Espay et al., 2018; Perez et al., 2021). Sarcoglycan Delta (SGCD) mutations cause limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2F (LGMD2F) in homozygous/compound heterozygous states, while heterozygotes are usually asymptomatic (Gordon et al., 2009). In contrast, Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms are strongly associated with psychiatric vulnerability—including depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder(Lewis et al., 2006; Meng et al., 2022)—suggesting predisposition for functional symptoms.

To highlight a case in which a 5-year history of gait disturbance was initially masked by incidental genetic findings, and to show how repeated examinations enabled FND diagnosis. The case underscores how functional symptoms affect electrophysiology, the need for psychiatric support, and challenges from genetic variants.

Comprehensive neurological, psychiatric, and genetic evaluations were performed.

A 48-year-old woman presented with a 5-year history of fluctuating gait disturbance, initially suspected as LGMD. Genetic testing revealed heterozygous SGCD and MTHFR variants. Neurological examination results varied: sometimes spastic and weak, sometimes (especially when distracted) completely normal. EMG performed during outpatient follow-up showed mild, non-specific proximal myopathic changes, whereas a repeat EMG during hospitalization was completely normal. Brain and spinal MRI were unremarkable, and antibody panels were negative. Following lumbar puncture, neurological symptoms spontaneously resolved. Psychiatric assessment revealed anxiety with preserved insight and judgment. Psychoeducation and psychotherapy were recommended.

This case demonstrates the diagnostic complexity when genetic findings suggest neuromuscular pathology but functional mechanisms predominate. SGCD heterozygosity represents a carrier state without overt disease, while MTHFR variants may increase psychiatric vulnerability and influence FND presentation (Gordon et al., 2009; Lewis et al., 2006; Meng et al., 2022). The patient’s 5-year fluctuating course, inconsistency between clinical examination and functional capacity, normal neuroimaging and electrophysiology, and transient improvement after lumbar puncture supported FND over neuromuscular disease (Espay et al., 2018; Perez et al., 2021). Recognizing positive diagnostic features—variability, reversibility, and internal inconsistency—is essential, as overinterpretation of genetic findings can lead to misdiagnosis, unnecessary interventions, and delayed psychiatric care. Multidisciplinary evaluation and timely psychiatric intervention are essential for accurate diagnosis.

None Declared

Serum Sodium abnormalities are largely observed in older adults and are associated with higher risks. Less is known about the association between normal serum Sodium variations and medial temporal brain structures, mainly involved in cognition and memory.

The study’s objective was to explore the association between serum Sodium and Hippocampus volume and to assess associated cognitive risks.

Non-demented ADNI3 participants (healthy controls (HC) and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)) with complete serum Sodium, ADAS13 score, and Hippocampus volume at baseline were included. Linear and non-linear associations were evaluated. To assess the odds of MCI, logistic regression was performed.

A total of 469 cases with a median age of 70 years (IQR: 66, 76) were included. The median serum Sodium level was 141 (IQR: 139, 142). Serum Sodium levels showed a significant association with Hippocampus volume in the MCI subgroup (Adj.ßMCI=-95 (-162, -28), p=0.006, q=0.036).

Serum Sodium levels did not show a significant association with the ADAS13 total score (Adj.ßTotal=-0.04(-0.28, 0.21), p=0.8) or with the odds of being diagnosed with MCI at baseline (ORMCI= 1.00(0.88, 1.13), p= 0.935).

Normal serum sodium variations were significantly associated with hippocampus volumes, depending on the underlying neurodegenerative pathology, without predicting clinically relevant cognitive decline. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms and identify protective factors.

None Declared

Research on visual evoked potentials (VEP) offers the possibility of finding electrophysiological markers of schizophrenia (SCH). VEP research has so far been limited to specialized laboratories. The development of a new portable device for the VEP measurement has brought the possibility of examining acutely ill patients. Previous research on VEP in SCH has shown a decrease in the amplitude of the P300 wave and a prolongation of the P300 latency as a promising endophenotype of SCH.

The aim was to measure VEP in hospitalized SCH patients and verify whether previously P300 connected findings also apply in this population. The mobile VEP device also allows for the determination of the speed of the motor response (i.e. reaction time, RT) to a visual stimulus. The secondary aim was to evaluate the relationship between physical parameters and immunological indicators (i.e. ratios of blood element counts from the blood count) with VEP values.

VEPs were measured in SCH patients hospitalized at the Dept. of Psychiatry of the Univ Hos in Hradec Králové. VEPs were also obtained from age and sex matched controls. The amplitude and latency of the P300 were evaluated. The motor response (button press) RT to a visual stimulus was measured. Other obtained values were: Body Mass Index (BMI), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Brief negative Symptom Scale (BNSS), Clinical Global Impressions-Severity (CGI-S) scales, B-CATS neuropsychological battery (containing tests TMT-A, TMT-B, Digit symbol, Animal naming), blood count.

Data from 60 patients and 60 healthy controls (HC) have been obtained so far. The P300 had a (p = 0.18) reduced amplitude, prolonged latency, and RT in SCH (both p < 0.001). RT increased faster (slowed down) in SCH in relation to age compared to HC. Moderate and weak correlations (Spearman’s rho) were achieved between cognitive test scores and VEP values. BMI was only weakly correlated with P300 amplitude, but not significantly correlated with other VEP values. Blood counts were also not significantly correlated with VEP values. BNSS and PANSS total scores both achieved moderate correlations with RT and with the difference in RT and latency. Olanzapine medication equivalent achieved only weak correlations with VEP. Correlations of VEP with CGI-S were only weak.Image 1:Image 2:

The faster RT slowing with increasing age in SCH compared to HC is a new finding. This may indicate faster brain aging in SCH. VEP values are apparently not distorted by BMI or blood count values. The achievement of moderate correlations with some cognitive tests, PANSS and BNSS values suggest the possibility of using VEP for quantifying both positive and negative and even symptoms of cognitive dysfunction in SCH. A deeper analysis of VEP recordings is needed to find more significantly correlating electrophysiological parameters compared to the currently used P300.

None Declared

Traditional smoking cessation methods—including pharmacotherapies and behavioral therapies—often fall short in achieving long-term abstinence. Pharmacologic interventions may not outperform placebo in real-world settings, and the safety and effectiveness of alternatives like e-cigarettes remain uncertain. Given the neurobiological underpinnings of nicotine addiction, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a promising noninvasive intervention targeting brain regions involved in craving, reward, and executive control.

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of rTMS, including newer protocols such as intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) and deep TMS (dTMS), for smoking cessation

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL through March 2025 for English-language RCTs involving adult smokers treated with rTMS versus sham. Outcomes of interest included smoking abstinence rates, cigarette consumption, craving, and adverse events. Screening and data extraction were conducted by three independent reviewers using Rayyan, with conflicts resolved by consensus.

Seventeen studies involving 956 participants met inclusion criteria. Among them, 491 received active rTMS, and 448 received sham stimulation (data unavailable for 17 participants). The majority targeted the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (L-DLPFC), with protocols varying in frequency (1–20 Hz), intensity (80–120% rMT), and number of sessions (1 to 21). One study used iTBS, and two employed deep TMS targeting bilateral DLPFC and insula.

Cigarette consumption and craving significantly decreased in most active treatment arms compared to sham. Biochemically verified abstinence was significantly higher in select studies, particularly those using deep TMS. However, treatment effects often declined by 3- to 6-month follow-up. Across all trials, rTMS was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported.

rTMS is a safe and potentially effective neuromodulatory intervention for reducing cigarette use, craving, and nicotine dependence. While short-term benefits are promising, long-term efficacy remains uncertain, and heterogeneity in protocols complicates direct comparisons. Deep TMS and theta burst protocols warrant further exploration in large-scale trials, particularly in diverse populations and those with comorbid psychiatric conditions.

None Declared

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a major clinical challenge, with limited efficacy of available therapies. Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown promising antidepressant effects. As recent studies have shown altered default mode network activity following psilocybin administration, further neuroimaging research in clinical populations is needed to clarify its mechanisms of action and the neural networks associated with symptom improvement in depression.

To investigate whether the antidepressant effects of psilocybin are associated with changes in resting-state brain activity and to assess the feasibility of conducting psilocybin trials in a French clinical population.

Patients meeting DSM-IV criteria for moderate to severe TRD underwent two fMRI sessions 2 days before and 5 days after a single oral psilocybin administration (25 mg). Amplitude of Low Frequency Fluctuations (ALFF) and regional homogeneity analyses were conducted to identify changes in resting brain activity after psilocybin.

Ten patients underwent the two fMRI sessions (8 women, 1 man; mean age 42.2 years). Resting-state analyses revealed increased ALFF signal in the right Ventro-Lateral Pre-Frontal Cortex (vlPFC) (Figure 1), the right Medial Pre-Frontal Cortex (mPFC) (Figure 2), and the left Inferior Parietal Lobule (IPL) (Figure 3) after psilocybin administration. Regional homogeneity analyses confirmed greater signal coherence in overlapping regions.Image 1:

Preliminary results from the PSILODAC study suggest that psilocybin modulates resting-state brain activity in patients with TRD. Upcoming analyses will include resting-state functional connectivity within positive valence circuits, as well as correlations between imagery outcomes and clinical response to psilocybin.

None Declared

Oxytocin, a neuropeptide traditionally associated with social bonding and reproductive functions, has emerged as a critical modulator of anxiety and social cognition. Recent paradigm-shifting research has revealed that astrocytes, previously considered passive support cells, are essential mediators of oxytocin’s anxiolytic effects through novel signaling pathways distinct from neuronal mechanisms.

To synthesize current understanding of oxytocin receptor-mediated astrocytic signaling mechanisms, examine their role in anxiolysis, and evaluate therapeutic implications for social cognition disorders including autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD.

Comprehensive literature review of peer-reviewed publications from major databases including PubMed, Nature, and specialized psychiatric journals. Analysis focused on molecular mechanisms of oxytocin receptor signaling, astrocytic pathways, anxiolytic mechanisms, and clinical applications in social cognition disorders.

Oxytocin receptor activation in astrocytes triggers a novel Sp1-Gem signalling cascade, distinct from neuronal pathways. This mechanism involves transcription factor Sp1 upregulation, increased Gem expression, and subsequent RhoA/ROCK pathway inhibition, leading to cytoskeletal remodelling and process elongation. Astrocytic oxytocin signalling modulates gap-junctional communication through connexin regulation and alters astrocyte-synapse spatial relationships. Astrocyte-specific knockdown of oxytocin receptors or Gem completely abolishes oxytocin’s anxiolytic effects, establishing astrocytes as necessary mediators. Clinical evidence demonstrates oxytocin’s therapeutic potential in autism spectrum disorder, with intranasal administration improving social cognition and reducing repetitive behaviors.

The discovery of astrocytic oxytocin signaling represents a fundamental paradigm shift in understanding anxiolytic mechanisms. The Sp1-Gem pathway offers novel therapeutic targets for anxiety and social cognition disorders, potentially enabling more precise interventions than global oxytocin administration. This research opens new avenues for treating neuropsychiatric conditions through astrocyte-specific modulation.

None Declared

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a persistent movement disorder associated with long-term antipsychotic (AP) use, often leading to physical, psychological, and social burden. In Europe, psychiatrists and movement disorder specialist neurologists (MDS neurologists) manage TD, but no formal treatment guidelines exist. Understanding specialty-specific differences in recognition and treatment is therefore important.

To understand standard-of-care approaches to TD between MDS neurologists and psychiatrists.

Psychiatrists and MDS neurologists in Italy, Spain, France, and the UK with experience managing TD completed a 25‐minute web‐based survey. Results were analyzed descriptively.

334 physicians (241 psychiatrists, 93 MDS neurologists) completed the survey. MDS neurologists reported a higher proportion of patients with TD in their clinical practice than psychiatrists. To diagnose TD, similar proportions of psychiatrists (52%) and MDS neurologists (47%) reported frequently using DSM-5 criteria. Both specialties estimated that most patients had mild or moderate TD, though MDS neurologists reported a larger proportion of severe TD (21% vs 15%). TD severity was commonly reported as influencing TD management strategy (psychiatrists: 82%; MDS neurologists: 70%), followed by the impact of TD on quality of life (76% vs 65%). For severe TD, psychiatrists were more likely to modify, switch or discontinue APs (55% vs 50%), while MDS neurologists more often prescribed add-on treatments (44% vs 37%). Both specialties reported similar patterns for utilizing the “watch and wait” approach (mild TD: 29–30%; moderate TD: 13%; severe TD: 7–8%). Across TD severities, anticholinergics and benzodiazepines were more frequently prescribed as an add-on treatment by psychiatrists, while tetrabenazine (TBZ) and amantadine were more frequently prescribed by MDS neurologists. Both groups rated TBZ and other off-label therapies only modestly effective, safe, and satisfactory (mean scores 4–8/10), underscoring the limitations of available options.

Psychiatrists more often modify AP treatment, while MDS neurologists favor pharmacological add-on therapies. Both prioritize TD severity in decision-making. These findings may help guide efforts to harmonize TD care across specialties and improve patient outcomes.

A. Fagiolini Grant / Research support from: Angelini, Boehringer Ingelheim, Idorsia, Italfarmaco, Lundbeck, Janssen, Medicamenta, Mylan, Otsuka, Pfizer, Recordati, Rovi, Sunovion, Teva, and Viatris, Consultant of: Angelini, Boehringer Ingelheim, Idorsia, Italfarmaco, Lundbeck, Janssen, Medicamenta, Mylan, Otsuka, Pfizer, Recordati, Rovi, Sunovion, Teva, and Viatris, M. Driessen Shareholder of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Employee of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, A. Guevara Morel Shareholder of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Employee of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, M. Konings Shareholder of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Employee of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, K. Duma Shareholder of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, Employee of: Teva Pharmaceuticals, S. Reed Employee of: Oracle Life Sciences, P. Le Calvé Employee of: Oracle Life Sciences, A. Sadou Employee of: Oracle Life Sciences, S. Pappa Grant / Research support from: Johnson & Johnson, Lundbeck, Otsuka, Recordati, Rovi, Sunovion, and Teva Pharmaceuticals, Consultant of: Johnson & Johnson, Lundbeck, Otsuka, Recordati, Rovi, Sunovion, and Teva Pharmaceuticals