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Search Results (1,195)

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15 pages, 292 KB  
Article
Adaptive and Behavioral Phenotype in Pediatric 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: Characterizing a High-Risk Neurogenetic Copy Number Variant
by Larissa Salustiano Evangelista Pimenta, Claudia Berlim de Mello, Guilherme V. Polanczyk, Leslie Domenici Kulikowski, Maria Isabel Melaragno and Chong Ae Kim
Genes 2026, 17(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17020120 (registering DOI) - 24 Jan 2026
Abstract
22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) is the most common recurrent microdeletion in humans and a prototypical high-risk neurogenetic copy number variant (CNV) associated with a broad spectrum of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, including intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, [...] Read more.
22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) is the most common recurrent microdeletion in humans and a prototypical high-risk neurogenetic copy number variant (CNV) associated with a broad spectrum of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, including intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, and psychotic symptoms. This hemizygous deletion encompasses multiple genes involved in brain development and neural circuit function, contributing to marked phenotypic variability and multisystem involvement. In pediatric populations, deficits in adaptive functioning are frequently reported and may occur independently of global intellectual impairment, reflecting broader behavioral vulnerabilities within this genetic risk architecture. Background/Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the sociodemographic, clinical, and intellectual profiles of children and adolescents with 22q11.2DS and to examine adaptive functioning and its associations with behavioral difficulties. Methods: Thirty-four patients aged 1–17 years with a confirmed molecular diagnosis of 22q11.2DS were assessed. Standardized instruments were used to evaluate cognitive performance, adaptive functioning, and behavioral outcomes. Results: Intellectual disability was highly prevalent, with most participants showing combined cognitive and adaptive impairments. Adaptive functioning was compromised across domains, with relatively higher socialization scores compared to other areas, such as daily living skills. Multivariate analyses indicated associations between sociodemographic factors and behavioral difficulties, as well as between social problems and lower global adaptive functioning. Conclusions: Together, these findings contribute to the characterization of the adaptive and behavioral phenotype associated with a high-risk neurogenetic CNV and highlight the relevance of adaptive functioning as a key outcome for early evaluation and intervention in pediatric 22q11.2DS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Genetics of Neurodevelopmental Disorders: 2nd Edition)
24 pages, 400 KB  
Review
Sensory Deprivation and the Brain: Neurobiological Mechanisms, Psychological Effects, and Clinical Implications
by Donatella Marazziti, Gerardo Russomanno, Matteo Gambini, Francesca Rita Digiuseppe, Enrico Fazio and Riccardo Gurrieri
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16020122 - 23 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Sensory deprivation, defined as a reduction or absence of external sensory input across one or more modalities, has long been investigated in extreme and experimental settings. More recently, its relevance has expanded to clinical contexts and environmental conditions. The present narrative review [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Sensory deprivation, defined as a reduction or absence of external sensory input across one or more modalities, has long been investigated in extreme and experimental settings. More recently, its relevance has expanded to clinical contexts and environmental conditions. The present narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the neurobiological mechanisms, psychological effects, and clinical implications of sensory deprivation, with particular attention to its dual role as both a risk factor and, under controlled conditions, a potential therapeutic tool. Methods: A narrative literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, covering studies published up to August 2025. Search terms included sensory deprivation, neuroplasticity, neurotransmitters, HPA axis, neuro-inflammation, circadian rhythms, psychopathology, extreme environments, and spaceflight. Preclinical and clinical studies examining biological, cognitive, and psychological consequences of reduced sensory stimulation were included. Data were synthesized thematically without quantitative meta-analysis. Results: Evidence indicates that sensory deprivation induces widespread neurobiological adaptations involving neurotransmitter systems (particularly dopaminergic pathways), dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, neuroimmune activation, circadian rhythm disruption, and structural and functional brain changes, notably affecting the hippocampus. These alterations are associated with increased vulnerability to depression, anxiety, hallucinations, dissociative symptoms, and cognitive impairment. Duration, voluntariness, and individual differences (e.g., baseline vulnerability/resilience, trait anxiety, and prior psychiatric history) critically modulate outcomes. However, short-term and voluntary sensory restriction, such as Floatation-REST, may promote relaxation and emotional regulation under specific conditions. Conclusions: Sensory deprivation exerts complex, context-dependent effects on brain function and mental health. Duration, individual vulnerability, and voluntariness critically modulate outcomes. Understanding these mechanisms is increasingly relevant for clinical practice and for developing preventive strategies in extreme environments, including future long-duration space missions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sensory and Motor Neuroscience)
30 pages, 3878 KB  
Article
MS-MDDNet: A Lightweight Deep Learning Framework for Interpretable EEG-Based Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder
by Rabeah AlAqel, Muhammad Hussain and Saad Al-Ahmadi
Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020363 - 22 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a pervasive psychiatric condition. Electroencephalography (EEG) is employed to detect MDD-specific neural patterns because it is non-invasive and temporally precise. However, manual interpretation of EEG signals is labor-intensive and subjective. This problem was addressed by proposing [...] Read more.
Background: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a pervasive psychiatric condition. Electroencephalography (EEG) is employed to detect MDD-specific neural patterns because it is non-invasive and temporally precise. However, manual interpretation of EEG signals is labor-intensive and subjective. This problem was addressed by proposing machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) methods. Although DL methods are promising for MDD detection, they face limitations, including high model complexity, overfitting due to subject-specific noise, excessive channel requirements, and limited interpretability. Methods: To address these challenges, we propose MS-MDDNet, a new lightweight CNN model specifically designed for EEG-based MDD detection, along with an ensemble-like method built on it. The architecture of MS-MDDNet incorporates spatial, temporal, and depth-wise separable convolutions, along with average pooling, to enhance discriminative feature extraction while maintaining computational efficiency with a small number of learnable parameters. Results: The method was evaluated using 10-fold Cross-Subjects Cross-Validation (CS-CV), which mitigates the risks of overfitting associated with subject-specific noise, thereby contributing to generalization robustness. Across three public datasets, the proposed method achieved performance comparable to state-of-the-art approaches while maintaining lower computational complexity. It achieved a 9% improvement on the MODMA dataset, with an accuracy of 99.33%, whereas on MUMTAZ and PRED + CT it achieved accuracies of 98.59% and 96.61%, respectively. Conclusions: The predictions of the proposed method are interpretable, with interpretability achieved through correlation analysis between gamma energy and learned features. This makes it a valuable tool for assisting clinicians and individuals in diagnosing MDD with confidence, thereby enhancing transparency in decision-making and promoting clinical credibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue EEG Analysis in Diagnostics, 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 1427 KB  
Article
PsyAPP: The Development of a Mobile Application for Effective Health Management in Mentally Ill Patients
by Marta Llorente-Alonso, Cristina García-Ael, Gabriela Topa, Ana Fernández-Araque, Lourdes Jiménez-Navascués, Mª Ángeles Martínez-Casado, Irene Garcés Carretero and Andrea Cuervas-Mons Tejedor
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020894 (registering DOI) - 22 Jan 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: In recent decades, new technologies have been progressively integrated into various areas of mental health care. Mobile applications are potentially effective tools that allow psychiatric patients themselves to access self-management resources and tools within the community setting. Mental health nursing plays [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In recent decades, new technologies have been progressively integrated into various areas of mental health care. Mobile applications are potentially effective tools that allow psychiatric patients themselves to access self-management resources and tools within the community setting. Mental health nursing plays a key role in enabling patients to take an active role in their care and in promoting activities that foster their involvement and empowerment. The primary aim of this pilot study was to develop the PsyAPP mobile application to support both nurses and individuals with mental illness in managing care and improving health outcomes, and to assess its feasibility within a real-world clinical setting. Methods: A mobile application (PSYAPP) and a complementary web-based nursing management platform were designed and implemented. A total of 20 psychiatric patients enrolled in a partial hospitalization program in Soria (Spain) participated. Participants were assigned to experimental (app users) and control groups. Psychological empowerment, global functioning, and suicide risk were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Patients who used the application showed significantly greater psychological empowerment (W = 2.04, p ≤ 0.04) compared with the control group. Statistically significant improvements were observed in psychological, social, and occupational functioning. Regarding suicide risk, no statistically significant changes were detected between pre- and post-intervention measurements in either group. Overall, PSYAPP demonstrated feasibility and potential utility as an innovative tool to support mental health care follow-up. Conclusions: This study developed and implemented a mobile application designed to enhance mental health care by supporting both patients and psychiatric nurses. Results showed significant improvements in global functioning in both the app and control groups, suggesting that rehabilitative treatment contributed to overall progress. Suicide risk did not significantly change within groups, although improvements were seen in the full sample, likely due to clinical care rather than app use. Only the experimental group demonstrated increased psychological empowerment, indicating that the app may effectively enhance patient engagement and involvement in their own care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements and Future Directions in Clinical Psychosis)
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13 pages, 262 KB  
Article
Suicidal Behaviour, Self-Harm and Related Factors: A Retrospective Study from the Adolescent Psychiatric Unit
by Sigita Lesinskienė, Miglė Zabarauskaitė, Tadas Valiulis, Giedrius Dailidė and Arūnas Germanavičius
Children 2026, 13(1), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/children13010147 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 155
Abstract
Background and objectives: Suicide attempts and self-harm are critical issues in adolescence, often leading to serious and irreversible consequences. These behaviours frequently co-occur and share common biopsychosocial risk factors. Identifying these factors enables a more comprehensive assessment of suicide and self-harm risk, [...] Read more.
Background and objectives: Suicide attempts and self-harm are critical issues in adolescence, often leading to serious and irreversible consequences. These behaviours frequently co-occur and share common biopsychosocial risk factors. Identifying these factors enables a more comprehensive assessment of suicide and self-harm risk, helping specialists recognize high-risk individuals and implement effective preventive measures. This study aimed to examine the association between suicide attempts, self-harm and psychosocial factors among hospitalized adolescents. Materials and methods: A retrospective data analysis was performed using the database of the University Department of Children and Adolescents of the Republican Vilnius Psychiatric Hospital. The study covered patients’ records from December 2022 to February 2025. Information on gender, age, suicide attempts, self-harm, adverse events (bullying, psychological abuse, physical violence within the family, and sexual abuse) and unhealthy habits (smoking, harmful alcohol consumption, and psychoactive substance use), was selected and analyzed in this study. A Chi-square test was used to assess the difference between groups. Results were considered statistically significant when p < 0.05. Results: The study included 599 hospitalized adolescents (26.9% boys; mean age 15.1 ± 1.4 years), of whom 70.8% reported at least one episode of self-harm and 37.8% at least one suicide attempt. Rates of self-harm and suicide attempts were significantly higher in girls than in boys (self-harm: 81.3% vs. 42.2%, ϕ=0.381, p<0.001; suicide attempts: 45.5% vs. 16.5%, ϕ=0.304, p<0.001), and adolescents with self-harm had a significantly higher prevalence of suicide attempts than those without self-harm (46.7% vs. 15.8%, ϕ=0.308, p<0.001). Adverse childhood experiences and unhealthy behaviours were significantly more frequent in adolescents with self-harm and suicide attempts, although effect sizes were small to moderate (ϕ range 0.086–0.230, all p<0.05). In multivariable models, female gender (β=0.355, p<0.001) and smoking (β=0.330, p<0.001) were the strongest predictors of self-harm, whereas alcohol use (β=0.337, p<0.001) and self-harm (β=0.232, p<0.001). Conclusions: Exposure to adverse childhood experiences and engagement in unhealthy habits were associated with higher rates of both self-harm and suicide attempts. A comprehensive assessment and early detection of self-harm behaviours and adverse psychosocial circumstances are crucial elements of effective suicide prevention strategies and prompt intervention among high-risk adolescents. Full article
34 pages, 416 KB  
Article
The Impact of Comorbidities on Health-Related Quality of Life Among Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
by Adriana Liliana Vlad, Corina Risca Popazu, Alina-Maria Lescai, Daniela-Ioanina Prisacaru, Doina Carina Voinescu and Alexia Anastasia Stefania Baltă
Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020256 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 64
Abstract
Background. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease frequently accompanied by cardiovascular, respiratory, skeletal, psychiatric, and neoplastic comorbidities that are associated with higher morbidity and poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study evaluated the associations between comorbidities and patient-reported physical health, [...] Read more.
Background. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease frequently accompanied by cardiovascular, respiratory, skeletal, psychiatric, and neoplastic comorbidities that are associated with higher morbidity and poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study evaluated the associations between comorbidities and patient-reported physical health, emotional distress, daily functioning, and social relationships in adults with RA and explored patient-reported unmet needs relevant to integrated care. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 286 adults with physician-confirmed RA, using a structured questionnaire (ICRA-Q) administered between June and July 2025 via online platforms and in-hospital supervised completion. The survey captured demographics, patient-reported physician-diagnosed comorbidities (current and/or past), perceived disease impact, functional limitations, emotional and social consequences, access to treatment, financial burden, and support needs. Analyses included descriptive statistics, χ2 tests, t-tests/ANOVA, effect sizes (Cramer’s V and standardized mean differences), and multivariable logistic regression to explore predictors of high HRQoL impact and high difficulty in disease management. An exploratory classification into high-risk phenotypes was performed using predefined clinical, psychological, and socioeconomic criteria. Results. Most participants (98.6%) reported at least one comorbidity, most commonly hypertension, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. Higher comorbidity burden and depression/anxiety were strongly associated with higher pain, reduced mobility, emotional distress, and financial strain. Exploratory high-risk phenotypes (severe somatic multimorbidity, high psychological vulnerability, high socioeconomic burden, and a composite very high-risk profile) were associated with poorer HRQoL indicators. Younger age, shorter disease duration, and higher perceived social support were associated with lower perceived burden. Conclusions. In this cross-sectional, patient-reported study, comorbidity burden—particularly psychological comorbidity—was strongly associated with poorer HRQoL and greater management difficulty in RA. These findings support the need for multidisciplinary, integrated care pathways; however, subgroup phenotypes should be considered exploratory and require external validation. Full article
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14 pages, 342 KB  
Article
Impact of Psychiatric Rehabilitation on Chronicity and Health Outcomes in Mental Disorders: A Quasi-Experimental Study
by Marta Llorente-Alonso, Marta Tello Villamayor, Estela Marco Sainz, Pilar Barrio Íñigo, Lourdes Serrano Matamoros, Irais Esther García Villalobos, Irene Cuesta Matía, Andrea Martínez Abella, María José Velasco Gamarra, María Nélida Castillo Antón and María Concepción Sanz García
Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020250 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 124
Abstract
Background/Objectives: People suffering from mental illnesses are more likely to experience adverse social and health outcomes. Various interventions have been shown to help people with mental illness achieve better results in terms of symptom reduction, functional status, and quality of life. Psychiatric [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: People suffering from mental illnesses are more likely to experience adverse social and health outcomes. Various interventions have been shown to help people with mental illness achieve better results in terms of symptom reduction, functional status, and quality of life. Psychiatric rehabilitation interventions integrate evidence-based practices, promising approaches, and emerging methods that can be effectively implemented to enhance health outcomes in this population. This study aims to examine whether the rehabilitative treatment provided to a group of patients with mental illness leads to improvements in health outcomes and psychiatric symptomatology. Methods: This study employed a retrospective quasi-experimental design. Data were collected between 2023 and 2025 within the Partial Hospitalization Program of the Psychiatry and Mental Health Service of Soria (Spain). The sample consisted of 58 participants who received rehabilitative treatment in this setting. Data were collected at the time of patients’ admission and at discharge. Gender, age, psychiatric diagnosis according to ICD-10, and the average length of stay in the rehabilitation program were assessed. The questionnaires administered were psychometrically validated scales related to heteroaggressiveness, perceived quality of life, global functioning, attitudes toward medication, and the risk of suicide. Results: A significant improvement was observed in the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) Scale (t = −7.1, p < 0.001), with mean scores increasing from 42.17 at admission to 69.13 at discharge. Additionally, reductions in suicidal risk and hetero-aggressive behavior were noted, alongside improvements in quality of life and treatment adherence. Conclusions: The findings highlight the effectiveness of implementing activities and programs focused on psychiatric rehabilitation processes to promote positive health outcomes. Future research directions and practical implications are discussed to support the continued development and optimization of psychiatric rehabilitation programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multidisciplinary Approaches to Chronic Disease Management)
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13 pages, 249 KB  
Article
Sleep Complaints in the Psychiatric Hospital: A Qualitative Study of Nurses and Psychiatrists’ Approaches to Sleep Management in a Swiss Psychiatric Hospital
by Maria Dalmau i Ribas, Geoffroy Solelhac, José Haba-Rubio, Julien Elowe and Véronique Griffith
Clocks & Sleep 2026, 8(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/clockssleep8010005 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 189
Abstract
Insomnia symptoms are very common among psychiatric inpatients and can increase the risk of suicide in this population. However, little is known about how psychiatrists and nurses manage insomnia symptoms in psychiatric inpatients. This study aimed to investigate the views, opinions, and experiences [...] Read more.
Insomnia symptoms are very common among psychiatric inpatients and can increase the risk of suicide in this population. However, little is known about how psychiatrists and nurses manage insomnia symptoms in psychiatric inpatients. This study aimed to investigate the views, opinions, and experiences of psychiatrists and nurses regarding inpatients’ sleep complaints in a Swiss psychiatric hospital. This qualitative study used individual semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of psychiatrists and nurses working in a Swiss psychiatric hospital. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed manually using inductive thematic analysis. Ten participants (six psychiatrists and four nurses) were interviewed. Three overarching themes were identified: identifying and classifying sleep complaints, the decision-making process, and the actions taken to respond to the complaint. Insomnia symptoms were approached by psychiatrists and nurses in a highly heterogeneous, non-evidence-based manner, with a lack of adaptation of CBT-I leading to overmedication. This heterogeneity may be explained by the diversity of underlying problems associated with insomnia symptoms, the lack of hospital-specific guidelines, and the fact that current guidelines focus mainly on chronic insomnia and do not fully account for the complexity of psychiatric inpatients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Open & Reproducible Science)
17 pages, 4250 KB  
Systematic Review
The Contribution of Ethnicity to the Association of MTHFR Variants C677T and A1298C with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis
by Yining Pan, Brooklyn McDill and Marie Mooney
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16010093 - 16 Jan 2026
Viewed by 236
Abstract
Background: Common polymorphisms in the MTHFR gene, C677T and A1298C, have been associated with increased risk for psychiatric neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, studies provide conflicting evidence for the strength of the association with ASD based on both the [...] Read more.
Background: Common polymorphisms in the MTHFR gene, C677T and A1298C, have been associated with increased risk for psychiatric neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, studies provide conflicting evidence for the strength of the association with ASD based on both the allelic variant and population structure of the cohorts studied. Methods: Using systematic literature search and selection criteria, we calculated ASD-associated odds ratios for the two most-reported MTHFR variants. Twenty-two articles reported the association between MTHFR C677T and ASD, including 13913 subjects (4391 cases, 9522 controls). Nine articles, including 3009 subjects (1462 cases, 1547 controls), evaluated the link between MTHFR A1298C and ASD susceptibility. Results: We identified a statistical association between ASD and the MTHFR C677T variant, regardless of race or ethnicity. However, there was no statistical support for an association between ASD and the MTHFR A1298C variant. In both cases, substantial-to-considerable residual heterogeneity remained (I2 ~67% and 73%, respectively). Exploring the heterogeneity by meta-regression on race/ethnicity, the African (Egyptian) cohort with MTHFR C677T variants had a higher ASD susceptibility than Asian or European cohorts in most models, though this susceptibility difference was not observed between Africans and Europeans for the homozygous case (TT vs. CC). Similarly, the African (Egyptian) cohort with MTHFR A1298C variants also had a higher ASD susceptibility than Asian or European cohorts in most models, though this susceptibility difference was not observed between Africans and Asians for the homozygous case (CC vs. AA). Conclusions: Our findings support previous analyses that identified a statistical association between ASD and the MTHFR C677T variant but none between ASD and the MTHFR A1298C variant. We also reveal a greater potential for these variants to exacerbate ASD phenotypes in an African (Egyptian) cohort. Future studies should assess the mechanistic contribution of these variants to MTHFR function, especially potential hypomorphic sensitivity in individuals with African (Egyptian) ancestry. Full article
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17 pages, 1138 KB  
Review
Neuroinflammation and the Female Brain: Sex-Specific Mechanisms Underlying Mood Disorders and Stress Vulnerability
by Giuseppe Marano, Claudia d’Abate, Gianandrea Traversi, Osvaldo Mazza, Eleonora Gaetani, Rosanna Esposito, Francesco Pavese, Ida Paris and Marianna Mazza
Life 2026, 16(1), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16010139 - 15 Jan 2026
Viewed by 392
Abstract
Women exhibit a higher prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, and autoimmune conditions compared to men, yet the biological mechanisms underlying this sex difference remain incompletely understood. Growing evidence identifies neuroinflammation as a central mediator of psychiatric vulnerability in women, shaped by interactions [...] Read more.
Women exhibit a higher prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, and autoimmune conditions compared to men, yet the biological mechanisms underlying this sex difference remain incompletely understood. Growing evidence identifies neuroinflammation as a central mediator of psychiatric vulnerability in women, shaped by interactions between sex hormones, immune activation, and neural circuit regulation. Throughout the female lifespan, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, such as those occurring during puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause, modulate microglial activity, cytokine release, and neuroimmune signaling. These hormonal transitions create windows of heightened sensitivity in key brain regions involved in affect regulation, including the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. Parallel variations in systemic inflammation, mitochondrial function, and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis responsivity amplify stress reactivity and autonomic imbalance, contributing to increased risk for mood and anxiety disorders in women. Emerging data also highlight sex-specific interactions between the immune system and monoaminergic neurotransmission, gut–brain pathways, endothelial function, and neuroplasticity. This review synthesizes current neuroscientific evidence on the sex-dependent neuroinflammatory mechanisms that bridge hormonal dynamics, brain function, and psychiatric outcomes in women. We identify critical periods of vulnerability, summarize converging molecular pathways, and discuss novel therapeutic targets including anti-inflammatory strategies, estrogen-modulating treatments, lifestyle interventions, and biomarkers for personalized psychiatry. Understanding neuroinflammation as a sex-specific process offers a transformative perspective for improving diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of psychiatric disorders in women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)
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16 pages, 3571 KB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review of Personality Disorders in Patients with Gambling Disorder
by Ioana Ioniță, Mădălina Iuliana Mușat, Bogdan Cătălin, Constantin Alexandru Ciobanu and Adela Magdalena Ciobanu
Clin. Pract. 2026, 16(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract16010015 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Gambling disorder (GD) is characterized by a high prevalence of co-occurring psychiatric disorders, including personality disorders (PDs), which may negatively influence clinical presentation, treatment outcomes, and relapse rates. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize recent evidence regarding the association [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Gambling disorder (GD) is characterized by a high prevalence of co-occurring psychiatric disorders, including personality disorders (PDs), which may negatively influence clinical presentation, treatment outcomes, and relapse rates. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize recent evidence regarding the association between GD and formally diagnosed PD and/or diagnostically anchored PD symptomatology, and to describe the main personality dimension most frequently reported in affected individuals. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed and Dialnet databases for articles published between 30 November 2015 and 30 November 2025, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) guidelines. PubMed was selected as the primary database because it is the most comprehensive source for peer-reviewed biomedical and psychiatric research, while Dialnet was included to complement PubMed by ensuring coverage of peer-reviewed psychiatric and psychological research published in other Romance-language journals, which are often underrepresented in international databases. The methodological quality and risk of bias of the included studies were evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for cross-sectional studies and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) for observational studies. Data extraction and synthesis were performed manually by two independent reviewers. Eight studies, predominantly cross-sectional in nature, assessing exclusively formally diagnosed personality disorders in adult individuals (≥18 years) diagnosed with GD were included. Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria, including a total of 4607 patients with GD. Across studies, personality pathology was highly prevalent among individuals with GD, with antisocial and borderline personality disorders most consistently reported. Elevated levels of impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and narcissistic traits were frequently observed and were additionally associated with greater gambling severity, earlier onset, and poorer clinical outcomes. Antisocial personality symptoms were strongly linked to high-risk gambling subtypes, while obsessive–compulsive personality traits showed a more heterogeneous relationship with gambling severity. Conclusions: These results underscore the importance of personality assessment in individuals with GD and highlight the need for longitudinal studies using standardized diagnostic frameworks to inform tailored prevention and treatment strategies. Full article
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12 pages, 1635 KB  
Article
Risk Factors for Neuropathic Pain in Digital Amputations
by Alessandro Crosio, Pierpaolo Caputo, Maria Carolina Fra, Luca Monticelli, Monica Cicirello, Julien Teodori, Giulia Colzani, Alessandro Fenoglio, Davide Ciclamini, Paolo Titolo and Bruno Battiston
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020539 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 162
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Finger amputation is frequently followed by complications, with reported revision rates of up to 20%. One of the most disabling sequelae is the formation of painful neuromas, occurring in approximately 3–9% of cases. Several biological and mechanical risk factors have been proposed, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Finger amputation is frequently followed by complications, with reported revision rates of up to 20%. One of the most disabling sequelae is the formation of painful neuromas, occurring in approximately 3–9% of cases. Several biological and mechanical risk factors have been proposed, but the potential influence of psychological traits remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate whether a correlation exists between patients’ personality traits and the development of neuropathic pain or related symptoms. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at a Level II Hand Trauma Center, including patients who underwent digital amputation between 2021 and 2023. Neuropathic pain and cold intolerance were assessed using the S-DN4 and CISS questionnaires, respectively. Personality traits were evaluated using the BFI-10 scale. Demographic data and other clinical risk factors, including work-related injuries, psychiatric history, infection, treatment delay, and surgical technique, were also analyzed. Results: A total of 54 patients were included. Neuropathic pain, defined by an S-DN4 score ≥ 4, was identified in 10 patients (18.5%). A significant correlation was found between the occurrence of neuropathic pain, cold intolerance, and the “neuroticism” personality trait. Patients with work-related injuries or psychiatric disorders also showed a higher risk of neuropathic pain and cold intolerance. Conversely, infection and delayed treatment were associated with an increased risk of revision procedures, whereas the type of surgical technique used for nerve stump management was not significantly correlated with pain outcomes. Conclusions: The study demonstrated a meaningful association between the neurotic personality trait and both neuropathic pain and cold intolerance after finger amputation. Additionally, work-related injuries and psychiatric comorbidities were identified as potential risk factors. Patients exhibiting these characteristics may benefit from early psychological assessment and multidisciplinary management to prevent further complications and improve postoperative outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hand Surgery: Latest Advances and Prospects)
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29 pages, 980 KB  
Review
Ketamine in Diabetes Care: Metabolic Insights and Clinical Applications
by Shiryn D. Sukhram, Majandra Sanchez, Ayotunde Anidugbe, Bora Kupa, Vincent P. Edwards, Muhammad Zia and Grozdena Yilmaz
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18010081 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Background: Depression and diabetic neuropathy (DN) commonly complicate diabetes and impair glycemic control and quality of life. Ketamine and its S-enantiomer, esketamine, provide rapid antidepressant and analgesic effects, yet diabetes-related pathophysiology and co-therapies may modify exposure, response, and safety. Methods: We conducted a [...] Read more.
Background: Depression and diabetic neuropathy (DN) commonly complicate diabetes and impair glycemic control and quality of life. Ketamine and its S-enantiomer, esketamine, provide rapid antidepressant and analgesic effects, yet diabetes-related pathophysiology and co-therapies may modify exposure, response, and safety. Methods: We conducted a scoping review following PRISMA-ScR. MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, and APA PsycInfo were searched (January 2020–31 May 2025). Eligible human and animal studies evaluated ketamine, esketamine, or norketamine in the context of diabetes (type 1 [T1DM], type 2 [T2DM], gestational [GDM]), or DN, and reported psychiatric, analgesic, metabolic, or mechanistic outcomes. Two reviewers independently screened and charted data; no formal risk-of-bias assessment was performed. Results: Eleven studies met inclusion criteria: four human case reports/series (three T1DM, one T2DM), one randomized trial in GDM, two narrative reviews of topical ketamine for DN, and four preclinical rodent studies using streptozotocin- or diet-induced diabetes models. Short-term improvements were reported for treatment-resistant depression and neuropathic pain, including opioid-sparing postoperative analgesia in GDM. Glycemic effects varied across settings, with both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia reported. Mechanistic and clinical drug–drug and drug-disease interactions (particularly involving metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, and CYP3A4/CYP2B6 modulators) remain insufficiently studied. We outline a forward-looking population pharmacokinetic (popPK) and pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) research agenda, including priority covariates (eGFR, hepatic function, inflammatory status, HbA1c, genotype, co-medications) and sparse-sampling windows for future model-informed precision dosing. Conclusions: Current evidence supports cautious, selective use of ketamine for refractory depression and DN within multidisciplinary diabetes care. Purpose-built popPK/PK-PD studies in both human and preclinical diabetic models cohorts are needed to quantify variability, define drug–disease–drug interactions and glycemic risk, and inform individualized dosing strategies. Full article
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13 pages, 351 KB  
Article
Antipsychotic Treatment and Longitudinal Body Mass Index Trajectories in Youth with and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Javier Sánchez-Cerezo, Rocío Paricio Del Castillo, Lourdes García-Murillo, Gustavo Centeno-Soto, Mónica Jodar Gómez, Belén Ruiz-Antorán and Inmaculada Palanca-Maresca
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020508 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 162
Abstract
Background: Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently receive antipsychotics and are considered at increased risk for weight gain. Few studies have compared longitudinal weight trajectories between youth with ASD and those with other psychiatric disorders. Methods: This naturalistic, registry-based study [...] Read more.
Background: Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently receive antipsychotics and are considered at increased risk for weight gain. Few studies have compared longitudinal weight trajectories between youth with ASD and those with other psychiatric disorders. Methods: This naturalistic, registry-based study used data from the SENTIA cohort, which prospectively monitors antipsychotic safety in individuals under 18 years at a university hospital in Spain. Clinical characteristics were compared between participants with and without ASD. Longitudinal body mass index (BMI) z-score trajectories were analysed using linear mixed-effects models. Results: The sample included 266 participants, of whom 113 (42.5%) had ASD. Individuals with ASD were more often male and initiated antipsychotic treatment at a younger age. Of the 26 participants prescribed an antipsychotic before age 6, 88.5% had ASD. Comorbidity profiles were similar across groups. Risperidone and aripiprazole were the most frequently prescribed antipsychotics. BMI z-scores increased over time (β = 0.130, p = 0.017), and baseline BMI z-score was the strongest predictor. ASD diagnosis did not modify the average linear rate of BMI z-score change (time × ASD: p = 0.251); however, a significant quadratic time × ASD interaction (β = −0.016, p = 0.041) was consistent with a more pronounced early increase followed by earlier attenuation of BMI z-scores in the ASD group. Conclusions: Although antipsychotic treatment was initiated earlier in youth with ASD, no clear difference was observed in the rate of BMI z-score change. Differences in weight trajectories underscore the need for metabolic monitoring in antipsychotic-treated youth. Full article
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11 pages, 2189 KB  
Article
Assessment of Anxiety- and Depression-like Behaviors and Local Field Potential Changes in a Cryogenic Lesion Model of Traumatic Brain Injury
by Yeon Hee Yu, Yu Ran Lee, Dae-Kyoon Park, Beomjong Song and Duk-Soo Kim
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020597 - 7 Jan 2026
Viewed by 188
Abstract
Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have an elevated risk of developing chronic psychiatric and behavioral disorders, including impairments in motor function, memory deficits, anxiety, and depression. Although a substantial body of work has addressed the treatment and rehabilitation of sensory, motor, and [...] Read more.
Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have an elevated risk of developing chronic psychiatric and behavioral disorders, including impairments in motor function, memory deficits, anxiety, and depression. Although a substantial body of work has addressed the treatment and rehabilitation of sensory, motor, and cognitive symptoms after TBI, there is a relative scarcity of comprehensive behavioral assessments targeting neuropsychiatric manifestations in preclinical models. This study aims to investigate the connections between emotional sequelae after TBI and modifications in local field potentials (LFPs). Following cryogenic lesion-induced TBI, animals exhibited anxiety-like behaviors as assessed by the open field test (p < 0.001), light/dark box test (p < 0.001), and elevated plus maze test (p < 0.01). Depression-like behavior was observed using the forced swim test (p < 0.001). LFP analysis demonstrated a marked elevation in neural oscillatory activity associated with anxiety and depression in the contralateral hemisphere relative to the ipsilateral side (p < 0.001). These results indicate that the emotional consequences triggered by TBI may be linked to dysregulated synchronous neural activity between the ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Molecular Insights into Ischemia/Reperfusion: 2nd Edition)
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