Program and Proceedings - 7th International Regional "Stress and Behavior" Neuroscience and Biopsychiatry Conference (North America), June 22-24, 2016, Miami Beach, FL, USA

THE INTERNATIONAL STRESS AND BEHAVIOR SOCIETY (ISBS)
Program
and
Proceedings
7th International Regional (North America)
ISBS Neuroscience and Biological Psychiatry Conference
Stress and Behavior
Miami
7th Regional Stress and Behavior Beach, FL,
ISBS Conference, USA
June 22-24, 2016, Miami Beach, FL, USA
June 22-24, 2016 1
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7th Regional Stress and Behavior ISBS Conference, June 22-24, 2016, Miami Beach, FL, USA
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CONFERENCE PROGRAM
Day 1. Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Celebration Ballroom, Holiday Inn Miami Beach-Oceanfront, 4333 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL, USA
10.00-17.00 REGISTRATION
Morning session
10.30-10.45 ISBS OPENING CEREMONY AND WELCOMING ADDRESSES
10.45-11.20 ISBS OPENING PLENARY LECTURE: NEUROBIOLOGY OF RODENT SELF-

GROOMING BEHAVIOR AND ITS VALUE FOR TRANSLATIONAL BIOLOGICAL
PSYCHIATRY. AV Kalueff, ISBS President and Fellow, ZENEREI Research
Center, Slidell, LA, USA
11.20-11.50 ISBS SPECIAL TALK: TEACHING BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. S Sabbag,

Psychiatry Residency Training Program, University of Miami Miller School of
Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
11.50-12.20 ISBS CLINICAL TALK: THE NEED FOR A NEUTRAL SPEAKING PERIOD IN
THE TRIER SOCIAL STRESS TEST. LE Olson, S Grimley, C Ko, F Grace,
University of Redlands, Redlands, CA, USA
12.20-12.40 ISBS CLINICAL TALK: THE INFLUENCE OF CHRONIC ILLNESS ON SELF-

REPORTED RESILIENCY AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING. PL Stevenson, KT
Harker, TT Hachey, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, New Brunswick,
Canada
12.40-13.50 LUNCH BREAK (FREE TIME) AND EXHIBITION
Afternoon session
13.50-17.00 ZUKOWSKA SYMPOSIUM ON STRESS NEUROSCIENCE

Chair: X Liu (USA)
13.50-14.00 INTRODUCTION: PROFESSOR ZOFIA M ZUKOWSKA
14.00-14.20 INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF ALPHA4-CONTAINING NICOTINIC

ACETYLCHOLINE RECEPTORS IN STRESS. J Holgate, J Tarren, SE Bartlett,
Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of
Technology, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Australia
14.20-14.40 STRESS PROMOTES TRANSITION TO HEIGHTENED NICOTINE INTAKE IN

RATS: IMPLICATIONS FOR NICOTINE ADDICTION AND TOBACCO
SMOKING. X Liu, Y Gong, L Biswas, E Harrison, R Avusula, J Lee, T Rousselle,
University of Mississippi Medical Center, MS, USA
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14.40-15.00 A COMPUTER-BASED AVATAR TASK DESIGNED TO ASSESS ANXIETY
VULNERABILITY POSITIVELY CORRELATES TO HARM AVOIDANCE. MT
Allen, CE Myers, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, Stress and
Motivated Behavior Institute, Newark, NJ, Department of Veterans Affairs, NJ
Healthcare System, East Orange, NJ, NJ Medical School, Rutgers University,
Newark, NJ, USA
15.00-15.20 SEX DIFFERENCES IN NEURONAL ACTIVITY AND EXPRESSION OF SMALL

CONDUCTANCE CALCIUM-ACTIVATED POTASSIUM CHANNELS IN THE RAT
BASOLATERAL AMYGDALA. JE Vantrease, SR Blume, JH Urban, JA
Rosenkranz, Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology Department, Physiology and
Biophysics Department, The Chicago Medical School/RFUMS, North Chicago, IL,
Anesthesia Research Division, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research
Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
15.20-16.00 COFFEE BREAK AND EXHIBITION
16.00-16.15 BRAIN-INTERVIEW ASSESSMENT IN UKRAINIAN PATIENTS WITH

PSYCHOSIS. N Orlova, V Tarasov, Kiev Medical University of UAFM, Kiev,
Ukraine
16.15-16.35 HOW DO SOCIALLY EXCLUDED YOUTH DEAL WITH STRESS? A Wilczynska,

EA Kwiatek, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Krakow, Poland
16.35-17.00 EFFECTS OF CHRONIC MEMANTINE TREATMENT ON HIPPOCAMPAL

EXTRACELLULAR GLUTAMATE AND GABA LEVELS DURING SPATIAL
ALTERNATION TESTING. G Beselia, M Dashniani, M Burjanadze, L Kruashvili, S
Mataradze, I.Beritashvili Center for Experimental Biomedicine, Tbilisi, Georgia
17.00-17.45 ROUND TABLE: ETHICS IN BIOMEDICINE CURRENT CHALLENGES
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Day 2. Thursday, June 23, 2016
Morning session
10.00-12.10 LAPIN SYMPOSIUM ON BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY

Chair: AV Kalueff, ISBS Fellow (USA)
10.00-10.10 INTRODUCTION: PROFESSOR IZYASLAV P LAPIN
10.10-10.30 VITAMIN D STATUS AMONG PATIENTS WITH ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION.

KK Abdul-Razzak, SO Manasrah, BA Obeidat, AG Khasawneh, Jordan University
of Science and Technology, Jordan
10.30-10.45 MENTAL HEALTH STATISTICS AT ST. TAMMANY SHERIFFS OFFICE. S

Bhatt, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, New Orleans, LA, USA
10.45-11.05 CASE PRESENTATION: STRESS-INDUCED CHRONIC FATIGUE AND

DEPRESSION. AB Klafter, Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute and University of
Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
11.05-11.20 HOW MUCH DO PSYCHIATRISTS KNOW ABOUT QTC? S Bhatt, St. Tammany
Parish Sheriff's Office, New Orleans, LA, USA
11.40-12.00 PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR IN

GUYANA. JT Balseiro, BP Harry, I Harry, I Dominguez, A. Schultz, Georgetown
Public Hospital Corporation, Georgetown, Guyana
12.00-12.10 CONCLUDING REMARKS
12.10-13.30 LUNCH BREAK (FREE TIME) AND EXHIBITION
Afternoon session
13.30-18.00 INTERACTIVE POSTER SESSION
ANXIOLYTIC-LIKE EFFECTS OF L-ASCORBIC ACID AND KETAMINE IN MICE. DB

Fraga, G Olescowicz, A Siteneski, ARS Colla, MK Tavares, ALS Rodrigues, Department
of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina,
Campus Universitrio, Trindade, Florianpolis, SC, Brazil
STUDY OF SELECTIVE AND CONJOINT IMMUNOLESIONS OF
SEPTOHIPPOCAMPAL PROJECTIONS ON SPATIAL MEMORY FUNCTION. S
Mataradze, T Naneishvili, M Demurishvili, Kh Rusadze, M Burjanadze, T Kherkheulidze,
I.Beritashvili Center for Experimental Biomedicine, Tbilisi, Georgia
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LISDEXAMFETAMINE AUGMENTATION OF HEMATOPHOBIA. MR Chand, ML
Walford, S Kanwar, AR Hirsch, Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation,
Chicago, IL, USA; Caribbean Medical University, Willemstad, Curaao
BRAINSTEM ASTROCYTES MEDIATE RESPIRATORY RESPONSES TO
MILD STRESS IN RATS. S Sheikhbahaei, AV Gourine, JC Smith, Cellular and Systems
Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH,
Bethesda, MD, USA; Neuroscience Physiology and Pharmacology, University College
London, London, UK
DEPRESSION AND SOCIAL STIGMA IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS. A Pendi, J
Ashraf, KB Wolitzky-Taylor, D Lee, J Sugar, K Pendi, J Lee, DA Baron, University of
Southern California, University of California Los Angeles, University of California
Riverside, CA, Virginia Commonwealth University, VA, USA
MINOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS AND FACTORS ASSOCIADTED IN ELDER
PEOPLE. MA Ulhoa, AC Bhering, JC Amaral, J Pio II, I Rorrigues, AF Valadao, IMES,
Ipatinga City, Minas Gerais, Brazil
ACQUISITION OF CONDITIONED AVOIDANCE WHILE BREATHING ENHANCED CO2
(4%) IN HUMANS: SEX DIFFERENCES AND BEHAVIORAL INHIBITION. DP Miller, PF
Martino, J Miller, CE Meyers, RJ Servatius, Carthage College, Kenosha, WI, Stress and
Motivated Behavior Institute, Newark, NJ, Department of Veterans Affairs, NJ Healthcare
System, East Orange, NJ, NJ Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
ACTIVATION OF THE ATTACHMENT SYSTEM BY MULTIPLE CHRONIC DISEASES
AS STRESSFUL EVENTS AND THE INFLUENCE ON DIABETES RELATED SELF-
MANAGEMENT BEHAVIOR. K Brenk-Franz, B Strau, F Tiesler, P Ciechanowski, C
Fleischhauer, N Schneider, J Gensichen, Institute of General Practice and Family
Medicine, Institute of Psychosocial Medicine and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital,
Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington,
WA, USA
EXPERIENCES OF SEVERE CHILDHOOD MALTREATMENT, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY
AND ALCOHOL ABUSE AMONG ADULTS IN FINLAND. W Rehan, J Antfolk, A
Johansson, P Jern, P Santtila, Department of Psychology, Abo Akademi University, Turku,
Finland
PERCEIVED STRESS AMONG NURSES IN ISFAHAN, IRAN: CAUSES, EFFECTS AND
COPING STRATEGIES. M Lotfizadeh, B Moazen, Department of Public Health,
Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Non-Communicable
Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute,
Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
THE BURN OF THE SPIDER: ARACHNOPHOBIC RECRUDESCENCE OF BURNING
MOUTH SYNDROME. L Ahmed, K Hanif, A Assaf, AR Hirsch, St James School of
Medicine, St Vincent and The Grenadines, Caribbean Medical University, School of
Medicine, Willemstad, Curacao, East Carolina University, School of Engineering,
Greenville, NC, Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, Chicago, IL, USA
TASTE OF STRESS IN THE FACE OF FEAR: ANXIETY INDUCED PHANTOGEUSIA.
BE Kietyeta, AR Hirsch, Carribean Medical University, School of Medicine, Willemstad,
Curacao, Smell and Taste Treatment and Research foundation, Chicago, IL, USA
A CORRELATION STUDY ON DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS, PAIN, CONSTIPATION,
AND SEROTONIN LEVELS IN SMOKERS AND NON-SMOKERS. EJ Lee, Inha
University, Incheon, South Korea
GENE BY COGNITION INTERACTION ON STRESS-INDUCED ATTENTION FOR
FOOD. R Schepers, CR Markus, Department of Psychopharmacology, Maastricht
University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEMORY AND THE STEROIDOGENIC ENZYME IN
CUPRIZONE-MEDIATED DEMYELINATION/REMYELINATION IN C57BL/6 MICE. M
Yarim, MO Karayigit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz
Mayis University, Samsun, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
HARM AVOIDANT INDIVIDUALS PERFORMANCE ON ACQUISITION AND
EXTINCTION OF A COMPUTER-BASED AVOIDANCE TASK WITH OMISSION OF THE
AVERSIVE EVENT. K Stewart, MT Allen, CE Myers, University of Northern Colorado,
Greeley, CO, Stress and Motivated Behavior Institute, Syracuse, NY, Dept. of Veterans
Affairs, NJ Healthcare System, East Orange, NJ, NJ Medical School, Rutgers University,
Newark, NJ, USA
A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON SEROTONIN, DEPRESSION, A FAMILY HISTORY,
PERSONALITY, AND COPING STYLES BETWEEN SMOKERS AND NON-SMOKERS.
E Choi, EJ Lee, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
CEREBELLUM ESTRADIOL CONCENTRATION IN A MOUSE MODEL OF
NEUROINFLAMMATION. GF Yarim, M Yarim, F Kazak, E Karaca, Department of
Biochemistry, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis
University, Samsun, Turkey
A NEW APPROACH FOR ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION TREATMENT IN CHILDREN
AND ADOLESCENTS: A META-ANALYSIS OF STUDIES APPLYING
TRANSDIAGNOSTIC CBT. J Garca-Escalera, B Sandin, RM Valiente, P Chorot,
Universidad Nacional de Educacin a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
LISDEXAMFETAMINE DIMESYLATE INDUCED STUTTERING. N Nagothu, K More, AR
Hirsch, Caribbean Medical University-School of Medicine, Willemstad-Curacao,
Netherlands Antilles, Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, Chicago, IL,
USA
BREASTFEEDING DECREASES THE TRANSMISSION OF MATERNAL PRENATAL
STRESS-PROVOKED INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINE PROFILE TO INFANT. HM
Uusitupa, H Nupponen, AK Aatsinki, N Nousiainen, H Pesonen, L Karlsson, H Karlsson,
University of Turku, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku, Finland
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Day 3. Friday, June 24, 2016
10.00-14.00 SYMPOSIUM ON ALTERNATIVE MODELS IN BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: 9th

INTERNATIONAL ZEBRAFISH NEUROSCIENCE SYMPOSIUM AND
WORKSHOP
Chairs: AV Kalueff, ISBS Fellow (USA), DE Echevarria, ISBS Fellow (USA)
10.00-10.10 INTRODUCTION
10.10-11.00 ZNRC LECTURE: ZEBRAFISH MODELS IN NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH. AV

Kalueff, ISBS Fellow, A Kaluyeva, C Song, International Zebrafish Neuroscience
Research Consortium (ZNRC), ZENEREI Institute, Slidell, LA, USA; Institute of
Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Institute
of Chemical Technologies, Institute of Biological Science, Ural Federal University,
Ekaterinburg, Russia; Research Institute for Marine Drugs and Nutrition,
Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
11.00-11.40 ZNRC PRESENTATION: TECNIPLAST USA SOLUTIONS FOR AQUATIC

NEUROSCEINCE RESEARCH. TECNIPLAST, USA
11.40-12.15 WORKSHOP AND DEMONSTRATION
12.45-13.00 EFFECTS OF A NON-COMPETITIVE N-METHYL-D-ASPARTATE

(NMDA) ANTAGONIST, TILETAMINE, IN ADULT ZEBRAFISH. TO Kolesnikova,
SL Khatsko, VA Shevyrin, YuYu Morzherin, AV Kalueff,
Ural Federal University, Management of Federal Drug Control Service of Russia in
Sverdlovsk Region, Ekaterinburg, Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St.
Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
13.00-14.00 ROUND TABLE AND ASK-THE-EXPERT SESSION: FUTURE OF ZEBRAFISH

MODELS IN TRANSLATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH
14.00-14.15 CLOSING CEREMONY

ANNOUNCING FORTHCOMING ISBS CONFERENCES
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ABSTRACTS
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Day 1. Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Morning session
ISBS OPENING PLENARY LECTURE: NEUROBIOLOGY OF RODENT SELF-GROOMING BEHAVIOR
AND ITS VALUE FOR TRANSLATIONAL BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. AV Kalueff, ISBS President and
Fellow, ZENEREI Research Center, Slidell, LA, USA
Self-grooming is a complex innate behavior with an evolutionarily conserved sequencing pattern and is one
of the most frequently performed behavioral activities in rodents. Here, I will discuss the neurobiology of
rodent self-grooming, and will highlight studies of rodent models of neuropsychiatric disorders that have
assessed self-grooming phenotypes. I will argue that rodent self-grooming may be a useful measure of
repetitive behavior, and therefore of value to translational psychiatry. For example, various stressors
potently modulate rodent self-grooming, which likely involves cortico-basal ganglia and limbic circuits.
Recognized in early studies by J Fentress (1968, 1972), the impact of stress on self-grooming continues to
evoke significant interest. Notably, the effect of stress on rodent self-grooming can often be described as an
inverted U-function, where self-grooming typically occurs spontaneously at a low arousal (as a maintenance
behavior), but becomes longer (and may alter in pattern) during moderate arousal/stress, as a
displacement activity. In contrast, self-grooming activity can be inhibited by high-stress states that elicit
freezing, fight or flight responses. However, despite the usefulness of that view, caution may also be
needed because the relation of stress to grooming can be more complex, and duration measures alone
may be insufficient for adequate neurobehavioral analyses of rodent self-grooming. Indeed, mounting
suggests that behavioral microstructure of rodent self-grooming may serve as a sensitive marker of stress
levels. Therefore, a more detailed measure of self-grooming behavior, including the average bout duration,
the transitions between stages, the number of interrupted or incomplete bouts and many other ethologically-
derived parameters can help provide critical insights into the nature of grooming phenotypes under different
stress or arousal levels. It may also be important to recognize that the arousal- and the grooming
continuums themselves in various behavioral contexts may not flow as tightly as can be assumed, raising
the possibility of rethinking the acute stress response in rodents as freeze, fight, flight or groom. Thus,
self-grooming high-stress situations may differ considerably both behaviorally and mechanistically - from
either the low-arousal comfort or moderate-arousal (e.g., novelty-evoked) self-grooming. In summary, the
critical stress-grooming link may be complex and meriting further studies. Potentially relevant to modeling
various affective brain disorders, the analysis of this important relationship will benefit from focusing on
multiple (rather than single) self-grooming behavioral measures with an in-depth dissection of their specific
biological contexts and the underlying neural circuitry.
ISBS SPECIAL TALK: TEACHING BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. S Sabbag, Psychiatry Residency

Training Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
As part of the leadership of Psychiatry Residency training program at University of Miami - Miller School of
Medicine, I have experience teaching medical students and psychiatry residents on the topic of Biological
Psychiatry. In this talk, I will discuss professional experiences, evaluate the existing challenges teaching
this cross-disciplinary topic, and will emphasize the importance of understanding biological mechanisms of
CNS disorders as part of professional training in biomedicine.
ISBS CLINICAL TALK: THE NEED FOR A NEUTRAL SPEAKING PERIOD IN THE TRIER SOCIAL
STRESS TEST. LE Olson, S Grimley, C Ko, F Grace, University of Redlands, Redlands, CA, USA
INTRODUCTION: The Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) is a commonly used protocol to measure the stress
response in the laboratory. However, it does not differentiate between stress induced by emotion versus
stress due to the physical act of vocalization. METHODS: We added a neutral speaking period to a
modified Trier Social Stress Test in order to control for the act of vocalization. Physiological data including
blood pressure, galvanic skin response, and high frequency heart rate variability was collected from 41
subjects. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: In all physiological measures, there was a significant stress
response during the neutral speaking period compared to a silent baseline, demonstrating the need for this
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control. The magnitude of the peak stress induced by the TSST that could be attributed to vocalization
alone ranged from 39 - 77%. In examining the previous literature using the TSST, care should be taken to
consider the role of speaking in interpreting results. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Grant from the Trust for the
Meditation Process, a charitable foundation encouraging meditation and contemplative prayer.
www.trustformeditation.org
ISBS CLINICAL TALK: THE INFLUENCE OF CHRONIC ILLNESS ON SELF-REPORTED RESILIENCY

AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING. PL Stevenson, KT Harker, TT Hachey, University of New Brunswick,
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
INTRODUCTION: Chronic illnesses result in the prolonged activation of the bodys stress response system
(Schneiderman, Ironson, & Siegel, 2005). This prolonged health-related stress can be associated with
deficits in executive functioning (EF; Schillerstrom, Horton, & Royall, 2005). EF is involved in higher-order
mental processes, such as planning, organizing, and emotional regulation. Resiliency promotes adaptive
responses to stress and effective coping skills (Connor & Davidson, 2003). Resiliency may help an
individual adapt to the stress associated with their chronic illness, thus minimizing the negative effects of
stress on EF. The present study examined whether resiliency moderates the relationship between the
stress of chronic illness and EF. METHODS: Participants completed the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress
Scale (Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995), the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (Connor & Davidson, 2003),
and the Executive Function Index (Spinella, 2005). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: We found that resiliency
was a marginally significant moderator of the relationship between the stress of chronic illness and EF.
These findings suggest that health programs for individuals with chronic illness should focus specifically on
stress reduction and promote resiliency in order to improve cognitive and emotional functioning.
Afternoon session
ZUKOWSKA SYMPOSIUM ON STRESS NEUROSCIENCE
Chair: X Liu (USA)
INTRODUCTION: PROF. ZOFIA M. ZUKOWSKA. This regular

ISBS symposium is dedicated to Professor Zofia Zukowska
(1949-2012). Professor Zukowska received her M.D. and
Ph.D., trained in cardiovascular medicine at the Warsaw
Medical Academy (Poland). She pursued post-doctoral training
at the NIH, working with such renowned scientists as Irwin I.
Kopin, Scientific Director of NINDS, and Julie Axelrod, Nobel
Laureate. It was during this research period when her interest
in stress and neuropeptides became galvanized. For the 25
years, she was a professor (and, recently, Chair) of the
Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Georgetown
University, before moving to the University of Minnesota as the
Director of Stress Physiology Center. Her research examined
how stress affects cardiovascular and metabolic health and
diseases, and the role of peptides, in particular neuropeptide Y
(NPY), a sympathetic neurotransmitter and a stress mediator.
She was the first to determine that NPY mediates stress-
induced prolonged vasoconstriction and vascular mitogenic
and pro-atherosclerotic effects (via Y1 receptors) and potent
angiogenic actions (via Y2 receptors), establishing the role of
NPY in ischemia, retinopathy, tumors and obesity. Professor
Zukowska was a strong supporter of the ISBS and a regular
plenary speaker at our conferences. Her scientific vision, extraordinary creativity, kindness to colleagues,
and the talent to be daring, continue to inspire all her ISBS colleagues and their research.
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INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF ALPHA4-CONTAINING NICOTINIC ACETYLCHOLINE RECEPTORS IN
STRESS. J Holgate, J Tarren, SE Bartlett, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland
University of Technology, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Australia
INTRODUCTION: Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are important in stress. Research has shown
mecamylamine, a non-selective nAChR antagonist, prevents corticotropin releasing hormone-induced
increases in plasma corticosterone, nicotine-induced urinary corticosterone increases and stress-induced
reinstatement of conditioned place preference to ethanol seeking. However, it is unknown which types of
nAChRs and how their brain location modulates this process. This project explored whether alpha4-
containing (*) nAChRs in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) are altered by acute stress following prior exposure
to early life stress and whether an acute stress response could be manipulated via alpha4beta2*nAChRs.
METHODS: Part 1: YFP-tagged alpha4*nAChR mice underwent maternal separation (MS) for 3hrs daily,
P2-14. Elevated plus maze (EPM), novel cage and/or restraint were applied at 6-7 weeks. ELISA was used
to measure plasma corticosterone (CORT) and western blotting for NAc receptor expression. Part 2:
C57BL/6 mice received 2 injections (saline, varenicline (partial agonist alpha4beta2*nAChRs) and/or
yohimbine (pharmacological stressor). CORT and NAc receptor expression were measured, as above.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Part 1: The plasma CORT of control YFP-tagged alpha4*nAChR mice
increased following exposure to EPM, novel cage and restraint. Restraint produced the greatest increase in
CORT levels. NAc alpha4*nAChR and glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression mirrored plasma CORT
responses. Prior exposure to MS blunted CORT and NAc alpha4*nAChR but not GR expression. Part 2:
Varenicline attenuated the yohimbine-induced increase in CORT and NAc alpha4*nAChR expression. No
change in GR expression was observed with any drug combination. Our findings indicate that NAc
alpha4*nAChRs are involved in the stress response and pharmacological manipulation of these receptors
could be useful for treating stress disorders. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The National Health and Medical
Research Council (SEB 1049427) and the Queensland University of Technology (SEB).
STRESS PROMOTES TRANSITION TO HEIGHTENED NICOTINE INTAKE IN RATS: IMPLICATIONS

FOR NICOTINE ADDICTION AND TOBACCO SMOKING. X Liu, Y Gong, L Biswas, E Harrison, R
Avusula, J Lee, T Rousselle, University of Mississippi Medical Center, MS, USA
INTRODUCTION: Clinical literature indicates that stress is associated with high rates of cigarette smoking
and that smokers use cigarette smoking to reduce their stress levels. However, the issue of whether acute
stress exposure influences nicotine intake has received little experimental attention. The current study
examined effects of pharmacological stress induced by yohimbine (a 2-selective adrenergic antagonist) on
nicotine self-administration and compared these effects in rats that differed in their nicotine intake.
METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained in daily 1 h sessions to intravenously self-administer
nicotine (0.03 mg/kg/infusion, free base) on an FR5 schedule. After self-administration behavior was
stabilized in 20 sessions, rats were designated as low (6 infusions/session) and high (>6
infusions/session) nicotine-takers. In both the low nicotine-taking (LNT) and the high nicotine-taking (HNT)
rats, yohimbine (0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administered 30 min before test sessions in a
within-subject, Latin Square design. A separate group of rats was included to test for nonspecific behavioral
effect of yohimbine. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with yohimbine dose-dependently
increased active lever responses and corresponding nicotine infusions in the LNT but not the HNT rats. In
addition, nicotine intake in the LNT rats remained at a high level after yohimbine challenge. Yohimbine did
not change lever responses in the control rats that received infusions of saline rather than nicotine. These
results demonstrate that acute pharmacological stress induced by yohimbine administration selectively
potentiates nicotine self-administration in the rats with previously low levels of nicotine intake. These data
suggest that stressful life events may be effective in increasing tobacco smoking in light to moderate
smokers and therefore increase the prevalence of nicotine dependence. As such, reducing stress levels in
daily life may prove to be an effective approach to the prevention of nicotine addiction. RESEARCH
SUPPORT: NIH grants R01 DA017288 and R01 DA037277 (X. Liu).
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A COMPUTER-BASED AVATAR TASK DESIGNED TO ASSESS ANXIETY VULNERABILITY
POSITIVELY CORRELATES TO HARM AVOIDANCE. MT Allen, CE Myers, University of Northern
Colorado, Greeley, CO, Stress and Motivated Behavior Institute, Newark, NJ, Department of Veterans
Affairs, NJ Healthcare System, East Orange, NJ, NJ Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
INTRODUCTION: Anxiety vulnerability has been found to be associated with enhanced classical
conditioning and avoidance learning. Anxiety vulnerability has been measured with self-report paper and
pencil inventories such as the Adult Measure of Behavioral Inhibition (AMBI). In previous work, Myers et al.
(2015) demonstrated that a computer based task in which the participant guides an onscreen avatar
through a series of onscreen events could accurately predict participants scores on the AMBI. Here, we
sought to replicate the previous work with the avatar task and AMBI as well as compare performance on the
avatar task to another measure of anxiety vulnerability, the harm avoidance scale of the Tridimensional
Personality Questionnaire (TPQ). METHODS: One hundred and one undergraduates completed the avatar
task and the paper and pencil inventories. The sample included 50 males and 51 females with a mean age
of 18.6 years and a mean educational level of 12.5 years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Scores on the
avatar task were significantly correlated with BI assessed via the AMBI questionnaire (p < 0.001), which
replicates prior findings. There was also a strong positive relationship between the avatar scores and harm
avoidance scores (p < 0.001). . The avatar scores were significantly positively correlated with each of the
harm avoidance subscales: anticipatory worry (p < 0.001), fear of uncertainty (p < 0.001), shyness (p <
0.001), and fatigability (p < 0.005). There were negative relationships between avatar scores and the
novelty seeking scale (p < 0.01) and the reward dependence scale of the TPQ scales (p < 0.05). There
was no significant relationship between scores on the avatar task and the persistence subscale. Our
findings replicated the strong relationship between the avatar task and the AMBI. The strong relationship
between scores on the avatar task and scores on the harm avoidance scale of the TPQ were also
significant, but less than that between avatar and the AMBI. This computer-based behavioral measure of BI
is a viable alternative to self-report paper and pencil inventories in populations that are at risk for anxiety
disorders. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The Stress and Motivated Behavior Institute and UNC.
SEX DIFFERENCES IN NEURONAL ACTIVITY AND EXPRESSION OF SMALL CONDUCTANCE

CALCIUM-ACTIVATED POTASSIUM CHANNELS IN THE RAT BASOLATERAL AMYGDALA. JE
Vantrease, SR Blume, JH Urban, JA Rosenkranz, Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology Department,
Physiology and Biophysics Department, The Chicago Medical School/RFUMS, North Chicago, IL,
Anesthesia Research Division, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA,
USA
INTRODUCTION: Women are more likely to develop anxiety disorders, yet studies that examine sex
differences in the neurobiology related to these disorders are limited. The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is a
critical component of the neurocircuits involved in anxiety and fear responses. Since the amygdala is
hyperactive in patients with anxiety disorders and is more active in females during specific affective tasks,
we hypothesized that BLA activity may contribute to the sex differences in the pathophysiology of anxiety.
The purpose of this study was to determine if BLA neurons in female rats are more excitable than males.
METHODS: In all studies, male and intact cycling female Sprague-Dawley rats were used.
Electrophysiological recordings in vivo and in vitro were used to record spontaneous BLA neuronal activity
and membrane excitability in nave rats. In a separate study, the BLA was dissected from nave rats for
protein and mRNA extraction for use in Western blot and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis respectively.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: It was determined that females had a significantly higher BLA basal firing
frequency compared to males, independent of estrous cycle stage. BLA neurons are regulated, in part, by
after-hyperpolarization potentials (AHP) that limit neuronal firing frequency. Measurement of membrane
excitability in vitro found that females also had smaller medium AHP (mAHP) and slow AHP (sAHP)
amplitudes compared to males. Since small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels
contribute to the mAHP and sAHP, the relative expression of SK channel mRNA and protein levels in the
BLA was measured. It was determined that the relative mRNA levels of all SK channel isoforms (SK1-4)
were comparable between sexes. However, SK2 channel protein levels were reduced in females,
irrespective of estrous cycle stage, compared to males. Together this suggests that sex differences in SK2
protein expression are not likely due to differences at the level of transcription, rather SK2 protein levels
may be altered in females through differential post-translational modifications, and that this is not dependent
on estrous cycle stage. These results implicate a role for SK2 channels in the sexually divergent BLA
13
activity and AHP amplitudes in nave rats, and enhance our understanding of sex differences in anxiety.
RESEARCH SUPPORT: R01MH100536.
BRAIN-INTERVIEW ASSESSMENT IN UKRAINIAN PATIENTS WITH PSYCHOSIS. N Orlova, V Tarasov,

Kiev Medical University of UAFM, Kiev, Ukraine
INTRODUCTION: Since Klages days concept of rhythm in a certain narrow sense contrasted measure.
Internal rhythm is important for human daily life as well in psychiatry. Increasing scientific evidence
suggests a link between behavior, cognition and affect, and the disruption of biological rhythms. We
consider the current understanding of the impact of rhythms in psychotics.
METHODS: Assessment the frequency of problems related to the maintenance of circadian rhythm
regularity in patients with schizophrenia per BRIAN (Biological Rhythms Interview of Assessment in
Neuropsychiatry Ukrainian version). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: During 6 months were examined 60
inpatients in general psychiatric department with acute psychosis and middle age 35.2 years. Patients were
assessed during 1-4 days after admission. F20-29 was the diagnosis category on ICD 10. Patients
described their feelings with difficulties and had their psychopathological saturation and absurdity. Patients
were assessed in 5 important BRIAN domains: sleep (appr.1,8 point), daily activity (1,8 point), social
activity (2,2 point), eating patterns (1,9 point) and predominant rhythm (chronotype) (2,1 point). All of them
were moderate severity. The total average BRIAN score ranged 40,9 points (max. 84). BRIAN is useful for
assessment patients psychical state of the last 15 days before. Among the patients dominated
disorganization of social activity and chronotype patterns. They had seldom difficulties in communicating
and having interpersonal relationships and sometimes having difficulties in giving attention to others. Most
of patients often felt more productive in the morning. These data allow us to talk about prepsychotic state at
patients and assess its severity. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Kiev Medical University UAFM.
HOW DO SOCIALLY EXCLUDED YOUTH DEAL WITH STRESS? A Wilczynska, EA Kwiatek, Andrzej
Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Krakow, Poland
INTRODUCTION: Exclusion, rejection, and ostracism - all cause changes in human functioning on many
levels - starting from physiology and leading to non-adaptive social behavior. The sense of social exclusion
is connected with feelings and changes in the scope of personal moods and social behavior. Rejection
usually causes symptoms of intense stress and leads to individuals utilizing various coping strategies. This
often leads to an action paralysis, a form of emotional numbness, and it is linked to decreases in prosocial
behaviour and reduced empathy. We can also observe changes in the perception of time because the past
and the future lose their meaning and only here and now seems to be important. METHODS: Longitudinal
experimental study was done in a clinical environment. Different types of psychological therapeutic
intervention were applied in A group of 60 youth who were all rejected by their environment (youth aged
between 14-16 were divided into 3 groups: Group I hedonistic intervention (H) program, and Group II
eudaimonic intervention (E) program. In addition there was the Control Group III, in which no
psychological intervention was carried out. Changes were observed by monitoring the psychological
variables of individuals: mood, emotional intelligence, need for belonging, anger, time perspective and heart
parameters (DB, SB, HR) along with strategies of coping with stress. Until our research there have been no
experimental studies provided in natural clinical environment using interventions with young people at risk
of social exclusion. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Comparison of long-term results (after 6 months from
the end of the group intervention with the initial ones) show considerable differences in terms of the
perception of time, self-esteem, emotional intelligence and expression of anger. The effect value in the case
of intra-group comparisons fluctuated between 0.41 and a robust 0.88. The highest values of r-Cohen\'s
coefficient (above 0.7) were obtained for systolic and diastolic blood pressure (after 6 months, group H) and
Time Perspective - Fatalistic Present Time (after 3 months, group E). Internal group contrasts between
results obtained in phase 2 and phase 6 showed that after 6 months from disconnection participants from
their therapeutic group - need for belonging decreased (in E group; p=0.010) and anger increased (in H
group; p = 0.006). Results show external anger as a way of coping with social exclusion in group H, and
ALSO significant changes in almost all tested parameters in group E. These Results offer valuable insights
in how to behave/not behave with youth at risk of social exclusion. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Grant of the
National Centre of Science for 2011-2015 (DEC-2011/01/B/HS6/00455).
14
EFFECTS OF CHRONIC MEMANTINE TREATMENT ON HIPPOCAMPAL EXTRACELLULAR
GLUTAMATE AND GABA LEVELS DURING SPATIAL ALTERNATION TESTING. G Beselia, M
Dashniani, M Burjanadze, L Kruashvili, S Mataradze, I.Beritashvili Center for Experimental Biomedicine,
Tbilisi, Georgia
INTRODUCTION: For over a decade intensive research has been dedicate to search for NMDA receptor
antagonists as a potential neuroprotective treatment for both acute (e.g., stroke) and chronic
neurodegenerative diseases . It is still not clear, however, as to how memantine produces its
symptomatological improvement of memory in demented patients. There is no information about brain
glutamate changes in response to chronic treatment with NMDA receptor antagonists in humans. Reduction
in cortical glutamate were reported in a few single voxel 1H-MPS AD studies. The information from animal
models is limited. The effects of memantine on in vivo hippocampal glutamate levels has not been
examined. The following investigation was conducted to determine the effects of chronic memantine
treatment on hippocampal Glu and GABA release prior to, during and after spontaneous alternation test.
Also, we have investigated the effects of chronic treatment with memantine on basal and KCL-stimulated
release of Glu and GABA in the hippocampus . Regarding our choice of the hippocampus: the action of
memantine is not limited to this structure. However, because hippocampal intrinsic neurons are
glutamatergic and hippocampal cells bear a great number of glutamatergic receptors, it seemed to be an
anatomy of choice for our examination. METHODS: Two groups of male rats weighing between 200 and
250 gm at the beginning of the experiment were treated either with memantine (2,5 mg/kg/day; i.p. Sigma
Chemical Co., St. Louis, MO) or with vehicle (saline) for a period of 4 weeks.
Surgery. Microdialysis guide cannulae (CMA/11; CMA/Microdialysis, Stockholm, Sweden) was lowered into
the left hippocampus at coordinates 4.8 m posterior to bregma, 4.5 mm lateral to the midline and 3.2 mm
ventral from dura, according to the atlas of Paxinos and Watson. Two days after surgery, animals were
handled daily (5 min/day) for 5days prior to behavioral testing. Spontaneous alternation behavior. Rats were
trained in a four-arm plusshaped maze. Each rat was placed at the center of the maze and allowed to
transverse the maze freely for 20 min. The number and sequence af arms entered were recorded to
determine alternation scores. An alternation was defined as entry into four different arms on overlapping
quintuple sets. Microdialysis/HPLC. Prior to maze testing, the microdialysis probe (CMA/11) was inserted
into the hippocampal cannula, and the animal was placed into the holding cage located in the testing room.
After 120 min of stabilization, dialysis samples (sample volume 20 l) were collected every 10 min for a
period of 40 min in the holding cage to determine basal levels of Glu and GABA in awake rats. After four
baseline samples were collected, the rat was gently picked up and placed on the center of the maze. Upon
completion of 20 min of maze testing, rats were transferred back to the holding cage, and postbaseline
levels of Glu and GABA were collected for a additional 40 min. Then the perfusion fluid was switched from
normal CSF to high CKL-CSF containing 25 mmol/L KCL to depolarize the neurons. Three subsequent
samples (30 min) were collected to capture the stimulated glutamate release. This was followed by the
collection of four baseline samples (40 min). The content of glutamate and GABA were determined by high
pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Differences between groups were determined by the Mann-
Whitney U tets. In all cases differences were considered statistically significant at p<0.05. RESULTS AND
DISCUSSION: Memantine-treated rats, relative to saline rats, had a significantly lower level in the number
of arms entered during the testing session. However, the groups did not differ in the level of alternation
behavior. Memantine treatment produced decreased locomotor activity but did not affect spacial working
memory in adults rats assessed in spontaneous alternation rask. Glutamate release during the 10 min
samples taken at the time of the behavioral testing of memantine or saline treated animals increased
(expressed as percent increase above baseline values) during behavioral testing but were not significantly
different from those seen immediately before and after testing. Hippocampal GABA levels did not change
during behavioral testing of memantine or saline treated animals. KCL-stimulated glutamate and GABA
release increased in the hippocampus of memantine treated rat compared to the saline treated rat.
RESEARCH SUPPORT: The Georgian National Science Foundation.
15
Day 2. Thursday, June 23, 2016
Morning session
LAPIN SYMPOSIUM ON BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY
Chair: AV Kalueff, ISBS Fellow (USA)
INTRODUCTION: PROF. IZYASLAV P. LAPIN. This

regular ISBS symposium is dedicated to Professor Izyaslav
Slava P. Lapin (1930-2012), one of the true pioneers of
experimental neuropsychopharmacology and biological
psychiatry. Slava Lapin graduated from Pavlov Medical
School in St. Petersburg, and shortly after receiving PhD,
was invited in 1960 to establish the first
psychopharmacology laboratory at the Bekhterev
Psychoneurological Institute. The most important scientific
contribution of Prof. Lapin was establishing the link between
serotonin levels and mood-elevating (thymoleptic) action of
antidepressants. He suggested that enhanced central
serotonergic tone is essential for the mood-elevating effects
of antidepressants. Lapins serotonin hypothesis of
antidepressant action, published in Lancet in 1969, became
one the most cited papers published in this journal in the
last 50 years. Lapins studies have contributed greatly to
the development of newest serotonergic antidepressants,
such as SSRIs, currently representing the most prescribed
group of psychotropic drugs in the world. Prof. Lapin was
also the first to report the neuroactive effects of kynurenine
and its derivatives a discovery that opened another rapidly expanding area of glutamatergic
psychopharmacology. A talented professional musician, prolific writer, painter, and an enthusiastic athlete,
Prof. Lapin was a strong supporter of ISBS, and generously shared his knowledge with colleagues and
students at our Stress and Behavior conferences and ISBS summer schools. His enthusiasm, friendship,
generous support of junior colleagues, and the deep knowledge as both a clinical and experimental
neuropharmacologist (humanists and animalists, as he called them), made a long-lasting impact on his
colleagues and students.
VITAMIN D STATUS AMONG PATIENTS WITH ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION. KK Abdul-Razzak, SO

Manasrah, BA Obeidat, AG Khasawneh, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan
INTRODUCTON: Anxiety and depression are two common costly mental health concerns worldwide
particularly in developing countries including Jordan. Vitamin D is the most deficient vitamin in populations.
The association between vitamin D status and psychological symptoms has been investigated and
produced inconsistent results. Therefore, more research is necessary to address this problem in Jordan
among patients with psychological symptoms. The aim of the current study was to assess vitamin D level
among patients with anxiety and depression. METHODS: The study population consists of 84 patients with
anxiety and depression recruited from the psychiatric outpatient clinics at King Abdullah University Hospital
and 58 healthy controls. All participants gave information regarding their demographics, health status, if
they experience musculoskeletal pain and daily dietary calcium intake. Psychological symptoms were
assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Plasma vitamin D and parathyroid
hormone (PTH) levels were measured. RESULTS AND DSCUSSON: Significantly high prevalence of
severe vitamin D deficiency (<10 ng/ml) (60%), musculoskeletal pain (94%), fatigue (88.1%) and headache
(75%) were found among patients with psychological symptoms as compared to control. A positive
association between musculoskeletal pain severity, anxiety and depression was found. Logistic regression
revealed that the independent predicator for anxiety and depression was musculoskeletal pain (OR=34.091
[95% CI, 2.874-404.382]) and (OR=19.202 [95% CI=1.034-356.714]) respectively. On the other hand,
depression was predicted for and anxiety (OR=264.734 [95% CI=18.385-3812.124]) and vice versa
16
(OR=250.819 [95% CI=16.752-3755.495]). The result of the current study revealed that, significantly high
prevalence of severe vitamin D deficiency and musculoskeletal pain was found among patients with
psychological symptoms as compared to control. Musculoskeletal pain is the main factor associated with
anxiety and depression. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Grant from the Deanship of Research, Jordan University
of science and Technology.
MENTAL HEALTH STATISTICS AT ST. TAMMANY SHERIFFS OFFICE. S Bhatt, St. Tammany Parish
Sheriff's Office, New Orleans, LA, USA
INTRODUCTION: Mental health problem among inmates is always higher than mental problems in the
general population. There is a very limited data showing proper healthcare to inmate populations. Mental
health problem and correction environment are very challenging situations. High stress area and loss of
freedom can create multiple psychiatry problems or destabilize mental problems. Suicidal risk is very high
among prisoners. Antisocial personality and malingering behavior are big obstacles among arrested
inmates. METHODS: Mental health statistic was monitored in 2015. Mental health screening was done at
the time of arrest, and a detail screening was done at the time of intake screening. All patients were
classified according to Psychiatric Risk Index(PRI). Most serious patients PRI provided immediate
treatment including suicidal watch. All patients were provided appropriate pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy,
and a discharge plan when rolled out from the jail. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: All inmates were
screened immediately at the time of arrival and detail intake medical screening was done within 6 hours of
booking. Average booking per month was 643. Total monthly mental health appointment was 624 (54% of
all scheduled sick call appointments). Psychiatrist appointment per month was 349. 20% arrestees
reported mental health illness, 7% reported previous suicidal attempt and 1% reported active suicidal
thoughts/intent. 55-65% of inmates were active drug user at the time of arrival. 27.9% of inmates were
under the influence of alcohol, 65-75% of inmates were using drugs and /or alcohol. 14.6% of inmates are
on mental health medications. Average 50 inmates per month reported suicidal thoughts or intent and were
placed on suicidal watch. 3 suicidal attempts in the jail in 2015, but none were successful. 3 inmates were
required restrain for protection from self- harm. Most of inmates with mental illness are off their medications
and have been lost to follow up. Arrestees arriving to the jail are much more ill than before.
CASE PRESENTATION: STRESS-INDUCED CHRONIC FATIGUE AND DEPRESSION. AB Klafter,

Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute and University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
INTRODUCTION: Despite important advances in basic neuroscience and clinical trials, Depression and
Chronic Fatigue continue to be poorly understood medical syndromes whose presentations are triggered
and modulated by psycho-social factors. A case presentation will illustrate the inportance attending to
psycho-social stressors when evsaluating Depression and Chronic Fatigue METHODS: A 24 year old
woman was referred by her primary physician to a University Clinic with very clear symptoms of a severe
major-depressive episode, and a pre-existing diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. She requested
\"medications but no psychotherapy\" at her initial presentation. However, the patient revealed that she was
suffering from a very stressful professional and family conflict. The resolution of this conflict was much more
effective than psychpharmacoogic intervention in terms of resolving her fatigue and her neurovegetative
symptoms of depression. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The importance of keeping all dimensions of the
bio-psycho-social model in mind continues to be undermined in our training of young psychiatrists. One
factor in this trend may be the fear that psychological and psychodynamic models of illness undermine the
important progress which has been made in neuroscience. It is critical what we continue to train clinicians to
attend to all realms of patients\' livres - internal as well as environmental.
HOW MUCH DO PSYCHIATRISTS KNOW ABOUT QTC? S Bhatt, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office,
New Orleans, LA, USA
Cardiac dysrhythmia is one of the most common cause of sudden death. Ventricular conduction abnormality
including ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation are responsible for the majority of a patients death.
Underlying mechanism is repolarization of ventricle and many antipsychotic medicine prolongs
repolarization. Other major factor responsible behind this prolonged QTc interval is LQTC(long QTc)
syndrome. It may be congenital where the symptoms are limited to diagnosing this condition. Usually it is
17
asymptomatic. Only clinical evidence of prolong QTC is EKG which is not routinely done by the psychiatrist.
The majority of psychiatric medicine has a tendency to prolong QTc. It can also prolong with combinations
of psychiatry medication with many non-psych medications including some antibiotics. Polytherapy is a very
common practice in psychiatry so the risk of sudden death due to prolong QTc is always high. Clinical
progress of prolonged QTC may be fatal if not treated in time. Prevention is always better than cure. All
patients who are receiving antipsychotic with a high risk of QTC should screen for underlying cardiac
problem, must clear electrolyte imbalance, and periodically monitor for QTc prolongation.
PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR IN GUYANA. JT Balseiro, BP

Harry, I Harry, I Dominguez, A. Schultz, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, Georgetown, Guyana
INTRODUCTION: An estimated 804,000 suicide deaths occurred worldwide in 2012, representing an

annual global age-standardize suicide rate of 11.4 per 100000 population1 .A World Health Organization
(WHO) report, published in 2014, gives Guyana in the top worldwide with an age-standardized suicide rate
of 44.2 per 100,000 inhabitants. A nationally represented sample of 899 cases involved in suicidal behavior,
555 who committed suicide and another 344 attempted suicides from 2010-2012 in Guyana, were surveyed
using an epidemiologic study to identify the psychosocial factors associated to suicidal behavior.
METHODS: Data on respondents (patient or parents) was used for analysis. Data about psychosocial
factors associated to suicidal behavior were identified by professionals through of a statistical review of the
report for all deaths occurring in Guyana from 2010-2012, inclusive, that was classified as suicidal behavior
(both suicide and suicide attempts) and the administration of questionnaires; data were collected from
statistical. The statistical report contained basic information about suicide cases which included age, sex,
ethnic group; geographical precedence, method used and the questionnaires administered to suicidal
attempt cases included same and further information as mental illness and stressors religion, mental
illness; contact with a hospital and (or) or psychiatrist prior to suicide; educational level; unemployment,
financial problems, stressors, relationship breakup, interpersonal conflict, , motivation to commit suicide,
and adverse life events; method of suicide; and other details of the suicide, including location of death
among others. Data were processed and presented in tables and graphics. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:
As results founded age group most affected in suicide deaths is 20 to 49 years (50%). Males commit
suicide more frequently, with a male to female ratio of almost 4:1. The most commonly used methods are
poisoning (pesticide / herbicide) with more than 65% of cases, followed by hanging (>20%). East Indians
account for >80 %; geographically concentrated in Regions 6,5,4,3 and 2.In suicide attempt were collected
more detailed information, where age groups more affected are 12-18 (30%) and 19-25 (>20%). Females
attempt suicide more frequently (>75%) with a proportion of 3:1. East Indians account for >50 % and Afro
Guyanese provide 25.9 % of cases. Similar geographical area is affected in suicidal attempts and isolated
cases are reported from rest of Regions. The figures show more cases of suicidal attempt were single
people (60%), without children (68 %), living with family (> 50%), belong to Hindu (>30%) and Pentecostal
(>30%) religions, less common frequent are other factors as low income and unemployed . Persons
involved in suicide behaviour, are related with hopelessness, depression and uncontrollable anger in more
than 60% of cases of this study, usually associated to family discord (31%), couple problems (25%),
domestic violence (11 %) and interpersonal conflict (11%). Other risk factors identified were, acute
emotional distress and depression (36.6%), the accessibility of lethal substances (herbicides, pesticides
and others) in the 63.7% of cases, alcohol and drug use (32%), family dysfunction(34.5%).Also were found
aggressive tendencies and impulsivity, family history of suicide, previous suicide attempt, mental disorders
and people with lack of social support among others. This study provided evident information about the
factors associated are mainly socio-family environmental factors, such as personal relationships, family
violence, social and family conflicts and a sense of isolation, were significantly associated with a higher risk
of completed suicide to suicidal behavior in the country. Previous reviews also report that multiple social
and interpersonal factors, such as parent/family and peer relationships, are important for our understanding
of suicidality. School factors should also be considered for student suicide prevention. However, the study.
pointed out that in Guyana, although still important, psychiatric factors are not the main factors associated
with suicide .Our results highlight the importance of establishing protective factors as harmonious family
and social environments for suicide prevention. The study identified the main psychosocial factors
associated to suicidal behavior in Guyana. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Georgetown Public Hospital
Corporation, Medical Board, University of Guyana Academic Board, and Mental Health Unit into the Ministry
of Public Health of Guyana.
18
Afternoon session
INTERACTIVE POSTER SESSION
ANXIOLYTIC-LIKE EFFECTS OF L-ASCORBIC ACID AND KETAMINE IN MICE. DB Fraga, G

Olescowicz, A Siteneski, ARS Colla, MK Tavares, ALS Rodrigues, Department of Biochemistry, Center of
Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Campus Universitrio, Trindade,
Florianpolis, SC, Brazil
INTRODUCTION: L-Ascorbic acid (AA), similarly to ketamine, exhibits antidepressant-like effects probably
mediated by glutamatergic system. Interestingly, modulating of glutamatergic neurotransmission has been
confirmed in anxiety disorders. Despite the fact that the glutamatergic system is involved in pathogenesis of
anxiety disorders, the mechanisms underlying the role of AA and ketamine and anxiolytics actions are not
elucidated. In this context, it was hypothesized that acute administration of AA and ketamine would cause
anxiolytic-like effect in mice. METHODS: To evaluate the anxiolytic-like effects of AA and ketamine, mice
were treated with AA (1, 3 and 10 mgkg, p.o), ketamine (1 and 10 mgkg, i.p.) and diazepam (2 mgkg, p.o,
positive control). The behavioral response of mice was assessed 60 min after treatments in the open field
test, elevated plus maze test, lighdark preference test and marble burying test. RESULTS AND
DISCUSSION: The results showed that AA (3 and 10 mgkg) elicited an anxiolytic-like effect observed by
increased total time spent in the open arms of elevated plus maze, similarly to diazepam. Additionally, AA
treatment (3 and 10 mg/kg) caused an increase in the total time in the center of the areana in the open field
test, without affecting grooming or rearing responses. Furthermore, AA (3 mgkg) increased the latency and
total time in light area in relation to the time spent in the dark area and caused an anxiolytic-like effect in the
marble burying test, AA (3 and 10 mg/kg) similarly to diazepam, in 10 minutes but not in 20 minutes.
Interestingly, the administration of ketamine demonstrated anxiolytic-like effects in elevated plus maze (1
mgkg), an increased total time in the center in open field test (1 and 10 mgkg) as well as increasing in light
area preference (1 mgkg) and marble burying test in 10 minutes (10 mgkg). These results demonstrated
the potential anxiolytic-like effect induced by acute administration of AA and ketamine in mice, the extension
of this knowledge provides a new avenue of investigation for developing new treatments of anxiety and
anxious forms of depression. RESEARCH SUPPORT: CNPq, CAPES.
STUDY OF SELECTIVE AND CONJOINT IMMUNOLESIONS OF SEPTOHIPPOCAMPAL

PROJECTIONS ON SPATIAL MEMORY FUNCTION. S Mataradze, T Naneishvili, M Demurishvili, Kh
Rusadze, M Burjanadze, T Kherkheulidze, I.Beritashvili Center for Experimental Biomedicine, Tbilisi,
Georgia
INTRODUCTION: Extensive data from a number of different experimental approaches suggest that the
septohippocampal cholinergic system is sufficient for normal memory function. The interconnections
between the septum and the hippocampus are reciprocal. There are two types of ascending connections
from the septum to the hippocampus: cholinergic and GABA-ergic. About 90% of the cholinergic innervation
of the hippocampus comes from the MS/diagonal band of Broca. Lesions of the fimbria-fornix, or electrolytic
or neurotoxic lesions of the MS, impair hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. However, these
lesions necesserily result in loss of both cholinergic and noncholinergic septohippocampal projections. The
aim of this study was to investigate the modulation of the hippocampal function by the cholinergic and GAB-
Aergic cells of the septum and was designed to investigate the role of the MS and in particular the septo-
hippocampal cholinergic and GABA-ergic projections in learning and memory using the immunotoxin 192
IgG-saporin and a new GABA-ergic immunotoxin GAT1-SAP to produce selective lesions of
septohippocampal neurons. METHODS: Animals - A total of 32 male Wistar rats, approximately 4 months
of age and weighing 220-250 g at the start of experimentation served as subjects. The rats were housed in
cages under controlled environmental conditions (temperature 23 0.5 C, humidity 50 5%, lights on
07:0019:00 h). Experimental protocol was approved by Animal Studies Committee of I. Beritashvili Center
of Experimental Biomedicine. Surgery - Rats were anaesthetized with i.p. injection of 4% chloral hydrate (9
ml/kg) and placed in a stereotaxic apparatus with the rat adaptor and lateral bars. All injections of 192 IgG-
saporin (1 mg/mL of phosphate-buffered saline) and GAT1-SAP (325ng/l) for immunolesion surgeries or
mouse saporin (this product serves as a control for the immunotoxin), for control surgeries (Advanced
Targetting System, San Diego, USA) were performed stereotaxically at two positions: AP 0.7; ML 0; DV
19
- 7.8mm (0,3 l; 0,05 l/min) and DV - 6.2mm (0,2 l; 0,05 l/min). Water maze - Animals were tested in a
standard Morris water-maze, consisting of a circular tank (1.5-m in diameter and 0.5 m height) filled with
opaque (white-colored) water. Escape platform (10 cm in diameter) was located 2 cm beneath the surface
on hidden platform training days and raised 2 cm above the water surface on visible platform training
days. The room, in which the tank was stationed, had sufficient number of the cues (door, window,
furniture, posters on the walls, etc.) in order to provide spatial cues. On days 19, rats received four trials
per day, one from each of four equidistantly located start locations (N, S, E, W). On both visible- and hidden
platform days, the rats were placed into the water facing the wall of the maze. The trial ended when the rat
climbed on the available platform or until 60 s had elapsed. If a rat could not found the platform after 60 s, it
was placed on the platform by the experimenter. Rats were left on the platform for 15 s and were then
moved to a holding cage for a 2-min intertrial interval. On days 1 and 2, rats were trained to locate a visible
platform in the southeast quadrant of the pool, followed by a third day in which the platform was submerged
at the same location. This 3-day sequence was repeated twice on days 46 and 79 for a total of 36 trials
(24 visible and 12 hidden). On day 10, a competition test was given in which the visible platform was moved
to the northwest quadrant (opposite to its placement on the training days). Two trials were given with start
points equidistant from the two platform locations (SE and NW). Video recordings were analyzed to
determine whether rats swam within southeast quadrant before escaping to the visible platform in the
northwest quadrant. Immunohistochemistry. At the end of behavioral testing a random sample of rats from
each group (four control, four medial septal 192 IgG-saporin and four GAT1-SAP lesioned) were killed and
brains collected in order to verify lesion sites and lesion effects. The immunotoxic lesions of MS were
verified by observing decreased Acetylcholintransferase (ChAT) and parvalbumine (PV) staining of the MS.
The 20 thick coronal sections using freezing microtome were stained with ChAT (choataza - H-95) and
PV (parvalbumin - T-19) primary antibody and ABC Staining System. All necessary reagents and buffers
were received from Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Inc. (USA). Totally 30 fields per animal were analyzed and
average of immunostained cells per field was used to assess the effect of MS lesion on ChAT and PV-
stained neurons. The sections were analyzed with a microscope Leica MM AF.Statistical Analysis - Group
differences in the escape latency in the Morris water maze training task and the difference in frequencies of
strategies in the competition trials between groups was assessed by Students t-test. Two-sample t-test was
used to compare immunohistological data between control and lesioned groups. All data are presented as
mean standard error of the mean. Differences were considered significant when p < 0.05. RESULTS:
After injections of 192 IgG saporin (SAP) into the MS, animals exhibited significantly less ChAT staining in
MS as compared to sections obtained from control animals (P < 0.01). Intraseptal GAT1-SAP (GAT)
injected animals revealed significantly less PV staining in MS (P < 0.01) as compared to control. The MS
SAP lesioned rats as control rats rapidly learned to escape to the visible platform and reached the 6-7 s
asymptotes on day 2. The MS GAT and combined (SAP+GAT) lesioned rats were significantly impaired in
the first 4 days and improved in their ability to escape to the platform at slower rate. However, they also
approached the 5 s asymptote on the fifth day. Although in conditions of visible platform testing, differences
in the platform reaching latency between the animals of different groups, at the 5th, 7th and 8th days were
not found, at the days 6 and 9, when testing was performed in conditions of submerged platform, the
latency of the platform finding in the GAT and combined MS-lesioned rats was significantly increased
(P<0.05). The rats responses in the competition test were classified either as cue or as place, based on the
swimming path for those trials. Figure 2 shows the swimming paths from representative cue and place
responders and the data from both competition trials for each group. Contrary to the expectation that MS
lesion would produce a cue-learning bias, on the first competition trial, majority of the immunotoxic, MS-
lesioned rats, as well as the control ones used a place strategy. On the second trial, majority of the control
rats used a place strategy. These data indicate that although the first trial might have influenced overall
performance on the second competition trial, information regarding old location of the platform was still
being accessed by a subset of rats on the second trial. On the second trial, the MS SAP lesioned rats used
a place as well as cue strategy, but majority of the GAT and combined MS-lesioned rats used a cue
strategy. An overview of the data from both competition trials for each group shows that the control rats in
13 trials out of 16 competition test trials used place strategy; immunotoxic MS-lesioned ones used this
strategy in 11 trials; the GAT and combined MS-lesioned ones used this strategy in 6 and 7 trials,
respectively. Decreased place-bias in the GAT and combined MS-lesioned rats compared to the control
rats was significant (td = 1.9, P<0.02) and in MS SAP lesioned rats compared to the control rats was not
significant (td = 1.37, P>0.1). CONCLUSIONS: Our results observed across lesion techniques indicate that
MS are sufficient for spatial memory (assessed in the water maze task), but deficits observed after septal
lesions cannot be accounted solely to the loss of hippocampal ACh. Our results demonstrates a
dissociation between the two major components of the SH pathway in spatial memory. The data obtained in
GAT1-SAP treated rats suggest that GABA-ergic MS neurons are important for spatial memory. However,
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future work needs to be done to further explore and differentiate the specific effects of cholinergic and
GABA-ergic modulation of the hippocampus in different behavioral paradigm.
LISDEXAMFETAMINE AUGMENTATION OF HEMATOPHOBIA. MR Chand, ML Walford, S Kanwar, AR

Hirsch, Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, Chicago, IL, USA; Caribbean Medical
University, Willemstad, Curaao
INTRODUCTION: Hematophobia afflicts 3% of the population. Lisdexamfetamine, used in the treatment of

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and binge eating disorder, has been described to exacerbate a
plethora of psychiatric disorders including, anxiety, psychosis, aggression, and psychotic episodes.
However, exacerbation hematophobia, has not heretofore been described. METHODS: Case Study: A 19
year old right-handed female presented with complaints of impaired concentration, ease of distractability,
lack of focus, and low attention span. She also complained of depression with crying spells, helplessness,
and guilt for the last year without suicidal ideation. She affirmed irritability, racing thoughts, and obsessions.
She also admitted to life-long hematophobia whereby she would feel presyncopal with blood draws and
thus tries to avoid these or situations involving contact with blood. RESULTS: Psychiatric Examination
Abnormalities: Depressed mood with congruent affect. Mental Status Exam: Immediate recall: 7 digits
forward, 2 digits backwards. Recent recall 3/4 objects in 3 minutes and all four with reinforcement. Beck
Depression Inventory II: 29 (severe depression). Lisdexamfetamine at 20 mg per day, showed
improvement in her concentration along with resolution of her anxiety and depression. However, she
concurrently noted exacerbation of hematophobia requiring a visit to the emergency department.
DISCUSSION: Lisdexamfetamine increases the release of dopamine and norepinephrine into the synaptic
cleft. With administration of lisdexamfetamine, an enhanced vascular tone would be expected making
syncopal episodes less likely. However, this patient's hematophobia and associated syncope were
exacerbated. Lisdexamfetamine may have caused a chronic state of sympathetic activation. which may
have prevented acute enhanced sympathetic activation from the phobic stimulus. Query and investigation
into those with enhanced phobia while taking lisdexamfetamine and other stimulant medications is
warranted.
BRAINSTEM ASTROCYTES MEDIATE RESPIRATORY RESPONSES TO MILD STRESS IN RATS. S

Sheikhbahaei, AV Gourine, JC Smith, Cellular and Systems Neurobiology Section, National Institute of
Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA; Neuroscience Physiology and Pharmacology,
University College London, London, UK
INTRODUCTION: While a link between anxiety states and altered respiratory function is well described in
humans, the association between respiration and emotion in laboratory animals is not fully established.
There is evidence from in vitro studies in rodent brainstem tissue slices that astrocytes may regulate activity
of neurons within vital brainstem respiratory rhythm generating circuits of the preBtzinger Complex
(preBtC), which is the origin of breathing in mammals, but the signaling mechanisms and functional
significance of this control in vivo remain unknown. In this study, to determine the effect of astroglial
signaling on respiratory response to a mild stress (novel environment), we virally expressed the light chain
of tetanus toxin (TeLC) in preBtC astrocytes in adult male rats to block SNARE-dependent vesicular
release mechanisms of gliotransmitters. We also generated a novel adenoviral vector for astrocyte-specific
expression of Gq-coupled Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drug (DREADDGq) for
continuous activation of astroglial signaling mechanisms. METHODS: Whole-body plethysmography was
used to record the respiratory activity in conscious freely moving adult rats transduced with viral vectors to
express TeLC, DREADDGq, or GFP (control) in astrocytes of the preBtC. We examined the functional
perturbations of respiratory control caused by this disruption of astroglial signaling during the acclimatization
period (free exploration of the plethysmograph). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Frequency of sighs,
augmented breaths that normally engage preBtC circuit mechanisms for increased inspiratory efforts
during stressful situations, was reduced in rats expressing virally transduced TeLC (by 17%; n=6, p=0.016)
and increased in rats with transduced DREADDGq (by 50%; n=6, p<0.001), when compared to the control
groups. Similarly, rats expressing TeLC or DREADDGq in preBtC astrocytes showed lower (122 vs 140
min-1 in controls, n=6, p=0.011) and higher (185 vs 140 min-1 in controls, n=6, p<0.001) respiratory rate,
respectively. Astrocytic DREADDGq expression reduced the time that rats spent at high-frequency sniffing
(by 43%; n=6, p=0.016) when compared to the rats transduced to express GFP in preBtC astrocytes.
21
These data reveal a physiological role of astroglial signaling in modulation of the neuronal circuits
controlling breathing during stress. Astrocytes are actively involved in behavioral responses associated with
stress exposure, and also participate in the stress response. RESEARCH SUPPORT: NIH-UCL GPP,
Welcome Trust, and the IRP of NIH/NINDS.
DEPRESSION AND SOCIAL STIGMA IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS. A Pendi, J Ashraf, KB

Wolitzky-Taylor, D Lee, J Sugar, K Pendi, J Lee, DA Baron, University of Southern California, University of
California Los Angeles, University of California Riverside, CA, Virginia Commonwealth University, VA, USA
INTRODUCTION: Depression remains a common mental illness among American undergraduate students
and the associated social stigma remains a critical barrier to seeking treatment. Few studies have
attempted to quantify stigma in students, often with conflicting results. Stigma can be divided into two
components: personal stigma refers to a students own views about depression while perceived stigma
refers to a students perception of others views. This study determined the prevalence of depression,
predictors of depression and stigma, and the relationship between depression severity and stigma, personal
and perceived, in undergraduates. METHOD: An IRB-approved cross-sectional study was conducted online
at a large metropolitan university in the USA from Aug. 1st to Dec. 31st 2015. The survey consisted of a
socio-demographic questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Depression Stigma Scale
(DSS) to measure participant characteristics, depression severity, and social stigma (personal and
perceived), respectively. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Of 1080 respondents, 36.3% met the criteria for
moderate to severe depression, greater than previously reported. Because female students (p<0.001),
LGBT students (p<0.001), upperclassmen (p<0.001), and students with non-Christian or no religious
affiliation (p<0.001) showed greater depression severity, these groups may constitute at-risk student sub-
populations. Male (p<0.001), heterosexual (p<0.001), unemployed (p<0.05), Caucasian (p<0.001), older
(p<0.05), and single-race students (p<0.05) were associated with more stigmatized personal beliefs,
representing high-priority groups for programs to reduce stigma. Moderately to severely depressed students
were associated with lower average personal stigma scores (p=0.023) but higher average perceived stigma
scores (p=0.002). As a result, on-campus efforts to reduce perceived stigma must discuss depression
openly and include students, faculty, administration, and other employees. In conclusion, to be effective,
campus-wide stigma reduction interventions must be tailored to the variations in stigmatized beliefs
exhibited by different groups of students.
MINOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS AND FACTORS ASSOCIADTED IN ELDER PEOPLE. MA Ulhoa,

AC Bhering, JC Amaral, J Pio II, I Rorrigues, AF Valadao, IMES, Ipatinga City, Minas Gerais, Brazil
INTRODUCTION: The main function of the sleep is to play a role in the body homeostasis and in the brain
activity. In turns, the nervous system is the main structure afected by sleep disturbances. Aging have
problems such as changes in sleep architecture, probably due to psycatric disorder, life habits,
environmental factors and physical activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between
sleep and psychiatric disorders. METHODS: This is a transversal and quantitave study with 47 elder
people. This people make part of an association that support elderly to make physycal and others activities.
They answered a questionnaire wih questions about sociodemographic data, life habits and diseases and
use of medications. Pittsburg scale was used to analyse sleep quality and it was used Self-report
questionnaire (SQR-20) to evaluate Minor Psychiatric disorders. Qui-square analysis was made with MPD
and others factors, using SPSS program. RESULTS: This population has mean age of 67 years-old, 85.2%
were woman, 36.2% were married, 14.7 % low educational level, 91.5% were retired. The sleep quality was
good for 31.9%, bad, for 38.3% and sleep disorders for 29.8%. The prevalence of minor psychiatric
disorders was 51,1% and it was associated with low educational level (p=0,0028), benzodiazepine
(p=0,018), body mass index (p=0,001) and low quality of sleep (Pittsburgh scale, p=0,041). DISCUSSION:
We found high prevalence of minor psychiatric disorders (MPD), compared to others group studied in
literature. Moreover, MPD was associated to fators in agrement to literature. CONCLUSION: Minor
Psychiatric disorders were high prevalence in Elder people. It is necessary increasemental and physical
health in this population. In addition, public health politics must be better implemented to improve a health
aging. Key-words: Mental health, aging, sleep.
22
ACQUISITION OF CONDITIONED AVOIDANCE WHILE BREATHING ENHANCED CO2 (4%) IN
HUMANS: SEX DIFFERENCES AND BEHAVIORAL INHIBITION. DP Miller, PF Martino, J Miller, CE
Meyers, RJ Servatius, Carthage College, Kenosha, WI, Stress and Motivated Behavior Institute, Newark,
NJ, Department of Veterans Affairs, NJ Healthcare System, East Orange, NJ, NJ Medical School, Rutgers
University, Newark, NJ, USA
INTRODUCTION: Behaviorally inhibited temperament and female sex have been demonstrated to be
vulnerabilities for the development of anxiety disorders. We have suggested that the critical nature of
avoidance in diagnosing anxiety requires the study of avoidance, which has been effectively examined in
non-humans (e.g., Servatius et al, 2008). In humans, Sheynin et al (2014) utilized a computer-based task to
demonstrate sex and temperament differences in avoidance acquisition. We used this task to examined
avoidance acquisition while participants breathed enhanced CO2 (4%), which activates stress response.
We hypothesized that activating stress response would alter learning and physiological responding in
vulnerable individuals. METHOD: Seven females and 13 males (all undergraduates) were categorized
based on responses on the Adult Measure of Behavioral Inhibition. Participants were fitted with a Hans
Rudolph face mask apparatus and allowed to breath air for 15 minutes. The face mask remained on
throughout all phases of training. Physiological dependent measures included HR, respiration rate, and
respiratory minute ventilation. Avoidance acquisition was accomplished using a computer-based spaceship
video game (courtesy of Sheynin and Myers) During avoidance acquisition, all participants inhaled 4% CO2
enhanced air during the first 12 trials of training. The following 12 trials were extinction trials, during which
all participants inhaled air. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Overall, we demonstrated that individuals
successfully acquired conditioned avoidance in the computer-based spaceship video game while inhaling
4% CO2 enhanced air. Females appeared to show some deficits in extinction compared to males. Further,
males made more moves, more shots and scored more points than females. Behaviorally inhibited
individuals and females showed decreased locomotion. Our results appear to be in agreement with
previous research using the spaceship video game where participants directly inhaled normal air (e.g.,
Sheynin et al., 2014). Our procedure is effective in examining cognitive processes while inducing stress in
participants. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The Stress and Motivated Behavior Institute, UMDNJ, and Carthage
College.
ACTIVATION OF THE ATTACHMENT SYSTEM BY MULTIPLE CHRONIC DISEASES AS STRESSFUL

EVENTS AND THE INFLUENCE ON DIABETES RELATED SELF-MANAGEMENT BEHAVIOR. K Brenk-
Franz, B Strau, F Tiesler, P Ciechanowski, C Fleischhauer, N Schneider, J Gensichen, Institute of General
Practice and Family Medicine, Institute of Psychosocial Medicine and Psychotherapy, Jena University
Hospital, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, WA,
USA
INTRODUCTION: Attachment theory provides a biopsychosocial model to explain how individual

differences in experience and behavior are related to interpersonal proximity and distance as well as to the
regulation of affect and stress. Models of deactivating and hyperactivating strategies (Dimensions: Anxiety
and Avoidance) of patients with insecure attachment are becoming increasingly important in the
consideration of patients with chronic diseases. They describe the relationship between insecure
attachment and various impaired mechanisms of stress regulation, which can have a direct influence on the
formation and maintenance of disease caused by an increase in physiological stress response. PURPOSE:
Examination of differences in the diabetes-related behaviors of patients depending on their attachment
dimensions anxiety and avoidance. METHODS: In the apricare study (Adult Attachment in Primary Care)
we used a prospective longitudinal design to examine the association between adult attachment and self-
management in primary care patients with multimorbidity. The attachment dimensions avoidance and
anxiety were measured using the ECR-RD. Self-management behavior were measured by the DSMQ
(glucose management, dietary control, physical activity, health-care use). Clinical diagnosis and severity of
disease were assessed by the patients GPs. Multivariate analyses (GLM) were used to assess the
relationship between the dimensions of adult attachment and patient self-management behavior.
RESULTS: 219 patients in primary care with multiple chronic conditions (type II diabetes, hypertension and
at least one other chronic condition) between the ages of 50 and 85 were included in the study. The
attachment dimension anxiety was negatively associated with dietary control and physical activity.
Avoidance was negatively associated with health care use. We describe the mechanisms of stress
regulation of patients with anxious or avoidant attachment. DISCUSSION: Multiple chronic diseases are
stress-inducing and attachment activated events. Our findings support the strong association between
23
attachment and self-management behavior. The two attachment dimensions anxiety and avoidance are
associated with different components of self-management behavior. A personalized, attachment-based view
on patients with chronic diseases and the understanding of differences in stress regulation could be the
keys to effective, individual self-management approaches in primary care. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The
study apricare (Adult Attachment in primary care) is sponsored by DFG, GE 2073/5-1, German Research
Foundation is an important German research funding organization and the largest such organization in
Europe.
EXPERIENCES OF SEVERE CHILDHOOD MALTREATMENT, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND

ALCOHOL ABUSE AMONG ADULTS IN FINLAND. W Rehan, J Antfolk, A Johansson, P Jern, P Santtila,
Department of Psychology, Abo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
INTRODUCTION: Not all victims of childhood maltreatment suffer from psychosocial problems in adulthood,
but it is unclear how many victims of severe maltreatment that do not suffer from clinical levels of
depression and anxiety or problematic alcohol use in adulthood. METHODS: To address this research
question we examined the prevalence of depression, anxiety and the level of alcohol abuse in victims of
severe maltreatment. Used a population-based sample of 10980 adult participants. The participants
reported on their maltreatment experiences and we defined participants who had 15 or more points on
Childhood Trauma Questionnaire as having experienced severe abuse. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: As
expected, women reported more severe emotional, sexual abuse and emotional neglect than men.
Concerning resilience, we found that the majority of participants with experiences of severe maltreatment in
childhood did not, as adults, report clinical levels of depression and anxiety or alcohol abuse in adulthood.
The proportions of individuals, who despite experiences of severe maltreatment, did not show clinical levels
of depression, anxiety and/or problematic alcohol abuse, ranged from 55.6% to 100%. Although this is a
positive message. It is important to remember that experiences of child maltreatment increase the risk of
psychosocial problems in adulthood and that several of the victims of severe maltreatment included in our
study may have had increased, but non-clinical levels of depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse.
PERCEIVED STRESS AMONG NURSES IN ISFAHAN, IRAN: CAUSES, EFFECTS AND COPING
STRATEGIES. M Lotfizadeh, B Moazen, Department of Public Health, Shahrekord University of Medical
Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and
Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
INTRODUCTION: Due to working in an environment that needs extra attention to the patients, nursing is
one of the most stressful professions around the world. The existing conflict between internal and external
strain and pressure might causes stress among nurses. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the
status of occupational stress in terms of prevalence, possible causes, and coping strategies among a group
of nurses in Isfahan Steel Company hospital, As the only hospital affiliated to an industrial unit in Iran.
METHODS: As a cross-sectional study this project has been conducted among 100 nurses in the above-
mentioned hospital. Socio-demographic characteristics as well as stress-related components were
assessed through validated standardized questionnaires. Logistic regression model was used to find the
possible associations. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: A total of 78 questionnaires were satisfactorily
completed by nurses. Mean age of the despondence was 36.58, and prevalence of stress among nurses
was 55.1%. Based on the regression results some parameters including salary per month, type of job, and
job satisfaction were found to be significantly associated with stress. Further analyses of different types of
coping strategies and the status of stress demonstrated a significant positive association between the
emotions (P<0.006, OR=4.37), disengagement (P<0.01, OR=3.17), denial (P<0.02, OR=3.02), self-blame
(P<0.03, OR=2.31) and instrument support (P<0.01, OR=.032) with higher stress levels. Results of the
present study demonstrate a striking prevalence of stress among the samples. Although this study was
conducted among a small group of nurses in Iran, and is not generalizable to the whole community of
nurses in this country, it should be considered that causes of stress might be shared among the nurses.
Attention to our findings might be helpful for the health policy-makers to mitigate the negative effects of
stress among the nurses in this country. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Shahrekord University of Medical
Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
24
THE BURN OF THE SPIDER: ARACHNOPHOBIC RECRUDESCENCE OF BURNING MOUTH
SYNDROME. L Ahmed, K Hanif, A Assaf, AR Hirsch, St James School of Medicine, St Vincent and The
Grenadines, Caribbean Medical University, School of Medicine, Willemstad, Curacao, East Carolina
University, School of Engineering, Greenville, NC, Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation,
Chicago, IL, USA
OBJECTIVE: Acute exacerbation of burning mouth syndrome (BMS) in response to phobic stimulus has not
heretofore been described. METHODS: Case Report: This 47-year old with four year history of BMS had
been fully controlled with buspirone, clonazepam, and alprazolam and had been totally asymptomatic for
several months until presented with her phobic stimulus: a spider. This caused her to experience immediate
symptoms of sympathetic activity and intense fear which lasted approximately five minutes, until the spider
was dispatched. One minute later she had acute recurrence of her BMS to level 10/10 in severity. The BMS
predominantly involved the dorsum of her tongue, spreading to the lips, gums, and palate and persisted
unabated for five days. RESULTS: Chemosensory testing: Olfaction: Brief Smell Identification: 11
(normosmic). Alcohol Smell: 6 (anosmia). Pocket Smell: 3 (normosmia). Retronasal Smell Index: 9 (normal).
Gustatory: propylthiouracil disc: 9 (normal). Fungiform papillae: right: 32, left: 34. Taste quadrant: impaired
anteriorly to all modalities and quinine hydrochloride throughout the tongue and palate. DISCUSSION:
Massive anxiety with acute presentation of the phobic stimulus exacerbated her symptoms of BMS, is
consistent with Hakebergs (2003) finding that acute anxiety aggravates BMS. The question is why her pain
did not present itself until the phobic stimulus was eliminated? Possibly this is due to acute cognitive
inhibition of pain, as seen in those injured during combat, where pain does not appear until after the battle is
over. Upon elimination of the spider, the driving force behind such cognitive inhibition was removed. This
disinhibition allowed the pain to manifest. This suggests one option for treatment of BMS may be training to
promote cognitive inhibition of pain. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The Smell and Taste Treatment and
Research Foundation.
TASTE OF STRESS IN THE FACE OF FEAR: ANXIETY INDUCED PHANTOGEUSIA. BE Kietyeta, AR

Hirsch, Carribean Medical University, School of Medicine, Willemstad, Curacao, Smell and Taste Treatment
and Research foundation, Chicago, IL, USA
INTRODUCTION: Precipitation of phantogeusia by anxiety has yet to be described. Such a case is

presented. METHODS: Case study: One month after lung transplant, a 67 year old woman noticed all food
tasted terrible. She became anorexic, losing 70 lbs. The bad taste was improved eating sour or spicy
foods. She denied any loss of taste and admitted to flavorful eructations. She felt her smell was 85% of
normal. She suffers from anxiety and when severe, experiences dyspnea, tachypnea, tachycardia and a
feeling of a pit in her stomach. Her anxiety persists despite treatment with clonazepam, mirtazapine and
nortriptyline. She observed a direct correlation between the intensity of the foul taste and anxiety. With
temporary reduction of anxiety, the awful taste is greatly reduced. There is diurnal variation: upon
awakening, her anxiety is the most severe, 9/10 and the bad taste is the most intense, 9/10. As the day
progresses, both drop in intensity, anxiety to 2/10 and bad taste to 3/10. Anxiety and taste are obligatorily
linked. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Chemosensory Testing: Olfactory: Brief Smell Identification: 9
(normosmia) Alcohol Sniff: 7 (anosmia) Pocket Smell: 3 ( normosmia) Phenylethylanolamine SNAP
Threshold: Left: -2.5 (anosmia), right - 5.5 (normosmia) Quick Smell Identification: 2 (hyposmia).
Retronasal Smell Index: 5 (normal) Gustatory: prophylthiocarbinol disc: 10 (normogeusia) Taste Threshold:
normogeusia to sodium chloride, sucrose, urea, and phenylthiocarbonal. Mild hypogeusia to hydrochloric
acid. Like digital paresthesias and visual entopias, phantogeusia may represent another sensory
manifestation of anxiety. Anxiety may reduce gustatory threshold, causing remnants of food lingering in the
oral cavity to be perceived as phantogeusia. Alternatively, it may intensify olfactory ability, activating the
retronasal olfactory pathway, thus inducing perception of taste. Instead, phantogeusia may be the primary
factor which induces anxiety. In those who present with chemosensory dysfunction, query about association
with anxiety is warranted. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation.
A CORRELATION STUDY ON DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS, PAIN, CONSTIPATION, AND SEROTONIN

LEVELS IN SMOKERS AND NON-SMOKERS. EJ Lee, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
INTRODUCTION: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, bowel movements, and pain.
Nicotine stimulates secretion of serotonin in the brain. However, there are few studies on the correlation
25
between mood, bowel movements, pain, and serotonin levels in smokers and non-smokers. The purpose of
this study was to examine the correlation between depressive symptoms, pain, constipation, and serotonin
levels in smokers and non-smokers. METHODS: This study was conducted from Sep 1, 2013 to Dec 31,
2105 at a university in Incheon, South Korea. Participants were recruited utilizing flyers and advertisements
on web pages. Constipation was measured using the Constipation Assessment Scale; depressive
symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Quesionnaire-9, pain was measured using the Visual
Analogue Scale, and serum serotonin levels were examined. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: There were
127 smokers and 60 non-smokers who participated in this study. No significant differences was found for
pain (1.29 0.17 vs 0.93 0.26), constipation (1.35 0.22 vs 1.38 0.31), and serotonin levels (155.17
4.85 vs 155.99 11.04). There was a significant difference in depressive symptoms (4.69 0.33 vs 2.31
0.5, p<.001) in smokers and non-smokers. Correlations between serotonin and constipation (r=.19, p< .05),
constipation and depressive symptoms (r=.27, p< .01), constipation and pain (r=.23, p< .05) in smokers
were noted. Additionally, there was a correlation between constipation and depressive symptoms (r=.35, p<
.01) in non-smokers. These results showed that constipation may be related to depression and pain in
persons with low serotonin levels. Further studies are need to examine those correlations in persons with
constipation, pain, or depressive symptoms. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Inha University and the National
Research Foundation of Korea Grant (NRFKG) 2014002505.
GENE BY COGNITION INTERACTION ON STRESS-INDUCED ATTENTION FOR FOOD. R Schepers,

CR Markus, Department of Psychopharmacology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
INTRODUCTION: Stress is often found to increase the preference and intake of high caloric foods. This
effect is known as emotional eating and is influenced by cognitive as well as biological stress vulnerabilities.
An S-allele of the 5-HTTLPR gene has been linked to decreased (brain) serotonin efficiency, leading to
decreased stress resilience and increased risks for negative affect and eating related disturbances.
Recently it has been proposed that a cognitive ruminative thinking style can further exacerbate the effect of
this gene by prolonging the already increased stress response. In support, recent findings show an
increased prevalence of emotional eating tendency particularly among S/S-allele carriers that also have a
high ruminative thinking style. OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed at investigating whether there is an
increased risk for emotional eating in high ruminative S/S-allele carriers and whether this is reflected by an
increased attention bias for high caloric foods during stress. METHODS: From a large (N=800) DNA
database, participants (N=100) were selected based on genotype (S/S or L/L) and ruminative thinking style
and performed an eye-tracking visual food-picture probe task before and after acute stress exposure. A
significant Genotype x Rumination x Stress-interaction was found on attention bias for food; indicating that a
stress-induced attention bias for specifically high-caloric foods is moderated by a gene x cognitive risk
factor. Conclusion: Both a genetic (5-HTTLPR) and cognitive (ruminative thinking) stress vulnerability may
mutually increase the risk for stress-related abnormal eating patterns. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The
Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) as part of the granted NWO Food, Cognition and
Behavior Project (FCB 2014; dossier 057-13-004).
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEMORY AND THE STEROIDOGENIC ENZYME IN CUPRIZONE-

MEDIATED DEMYELINATION/REMYELINATION IN C57BL/6 MICE. M Yarim, MO Karayigit, Department
of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Department of
Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, Turkey
INTRODUCTION: P450 aromatase and 3-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3HSD) in the brain are
enzymes that catalyzes the synthesis of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones called neurosteroids
can increase during remyelination and promote the oligodendroglial cell proliferation and the formation of
new myelin sheats. Furthermore, some studies indicate that neurosteroids ameliorate cognitive dysfunction
and oxidative stress in the brain. The present study was designed to explore the roles of brain progesterone
and estrogen on cognitive functions following cuprizon induced demyelination in C57BL/6 mice. METHOD:
A total 36 male C57BL/6 mice were equally divided as demyelinated group(n=12), remyelinated group
(n=12) and control group (n=12). Demyelinated group and remyelinated group mice were fed with 0.3 %
cuprizone diet. The brain sections were stained with rabbit anti-P450 aromatase and rabbit anti-3HSD
antibodies by immunohistochemically. The passive avoidance task is used to evaluate fear-motivated
learning and memory in mice. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The expression of P450 aromatase and
3HSD increased in the glial cells of the corpus callosum following demyelination as a result of cuprizone
26
administration. However, these enzyme expressions decreased to almost control levels at the end of
remyelination period. In the passive avoidance test, the animals of demyelinated group had lower latencies
to enter the dark compartment compared with the control group (p<0.05). The time latency to enter the dark
compartment by animals of remyelinated group was higher than demyelinated group (p<0.05). These
results indicate that the brain itself can produce neurosteroids against injury and restorative effects of these
neurosteroid hormones may improve demyelination and cognitive function deficits of brain in cuprizone
toxication in C57BL/6 mice. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Ondokuz Mayis University Research Fund
(PYO.VET.1904.09.001).
HARM AVOIDANT INDIVIDUALS PERFORMANCE ON ACQUISITION AND EXTINCTION OF A

COMPUTER-BASED AVOIDANCE TASK WITH OMISSION OF THE AVERSIVE EVENT. K Stewart, MT
Allen, CE Myers, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, Stress and Motivated Behavior Institute,
Syracuse, NY, Dept. of Veterans Affairs, NJ Healthcare System, East Orange, NJ, NJ Medical School,
Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
INTRODUCTION: Harm avoidance and gender have been found to be associated with enhanced
avoidance learning in a computer based task (Sheynin et al., 2012). This task involved a participant moving
a spaceship and shooting at a flying saucer to earn points. A warning signal (light) comes on prior to the
appearance of a bomb which results in the loss of points unless the participant moves the spaceship into
one of two safe zones (boxes) on either side of the computer screen. Moving into a safe zone while the
bomb is present is defined as an escape response (ER) while moving into the safe zone while the warning
signal is present (i.e., before the bomb appears) is defined as an avoidance response (AR). Overall,
females acquire avoidance faster than males while harm avoidant individuals exhibited more ARs. An area
of interest is the effect of omission of the harmful event (i.e., the bomb) on this avoidance task based on the
finding from eyeblink conditioning in which omission enhanced associative learning in anxiety vulnerable
individuals (Holloway et al., 2014). METHODS: One hundred and twenty undergraduates (60 males and 60
females) completed the spaceship task (with and without the omission manipulation) and the Tridimensional
Personality Questionnaire (including the harm avoidance scale). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Overall,
males had higher rates of avoidance, higher total scores, and moved and shot more during both acquisition
and extinction than females. Harm avoidant individuals had higher rates of avoidance, and shot more
during extinction than non-inhibited individuals. We replicated the harm avoidance and gender findings from
the original task. However, males rather than females as previously reported had higher rates of avoidance
in the task with omission. Future work will test the effects of uncertainty with a partial reinforcement
schedule (i.e., non-contingent pairing of stimuli) with a version of the task in which the warning signal occurs
but the harmful event does not occur on half the trials, and a version in which the harmful event occurs
without the warning signal on half of the trials. RESEARCH SUPPORT: The Stress and Motivated Behavior
Institute and UNC.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON SEROTONIN, DEPRESSION, A FAMILY HISTORY, PERSONALITY, AND

COPING STYLES BETWEEN SMOKERS AND NON-SMOKERS. E Choi, EJ Lee, Inha University,
Incheon, South Korea
INTRODUCTION: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is produced in the brain and the guts. Serotonin
plays important roles in mood, bowel movements, and sleep. Chronic and long-term exposure of nicotine
can decrease serotonin levels, causing a chemical dependency. The aim of this study was to compare
serotonin (5-Hydroxytiptamine), depression, a family history of smoking cigarettes, personality, and coping
styles between smokers and non-smokers. METHODS: This study was conducted from May 1, 2014 to Feb
29, 2016 at a university in Incheon, South Korea. Participants were 127 smokers and 60 non-smokers.
Participants had their blood drawn to test 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and completed questionnaires which
were categorized into 4 parts: 1) sociodemographic variants; 2) the Patients Health Questionnaire-9; 3) the
Eysenck Personality Inventory; and 4) the Multidimensional Coping Scale. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:
Smokers had more depressive symptoms and a family history of smoking cigarettes (p=0.017, p<.001,
respectively) than non-smokers. Also, smokers were less likely to cope actively (p<.001) and expressed
their emotion freely (p<.001) than non-smokers. However, there were no significant differences in serum
serotonin levels and personality between smokers and non-smokers. RESEARCH SUPPORT: National
Research Foundation of Korea and Inha University.
27
CEREBELLUM ESTRADIOL CONCENTRATION IN A MOUSE MODEL OF NEUROINFLAMMATION. GF
Yarim, M Yarim, F Kazak, E Karaca, Department of Biochemistry, Department of Pathology, Faculty of
Veterinary Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
INTRODUCTION: The contribution of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases and brain

disorders has been well considered. Scientific studies have shown that brain derived estradiol has
neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of present study was to assess cerebellum
concentration of estradiol in a mouse model of neuroinflammation. METHOD: In this study,
neuroinflammation was induced by intraperitoneal administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Totally 20
male Swiss Albino mice, 6-8 weeks of age, were randomly divided into a control group (n=10) and LPS-
treated group (n=10). Control group mice were injected intraperitoneally with 0.5 mL of saline. LPS-treated
group mice were injected intraperitoneally a single dose of 3 mg/kg LPS dissolved in 0.5 mL saline. All the
mice were sacrificed after 3 days and cerebellums were carefully removed from each mouse. The
neuroinflammation in cerebellum was evaluated using Iba-1 immunohistochemistry. Cerebellum estradiol
concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The
cerebellum exhibited de-ramification of microglia and increased Iba1 immunoreactivity indicating
neuroinflammation in LPS-treated group. The cerebellum concentration of estradiol was significantly lower
in the LPS-treated group compared to the control group (0.450.04 ng/g versus 1.030.19 ng/g, p<0.01).
The LPS-induced neuroinflammation was associated with decreased cerebellum concentration of estradiol.
The underlying mechanism of this decrease warrants further research. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Ondokuz
Mayis University Research Fund (PYO.VET.1904.15.012).
A NEW APPROACH FOR ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION TREATMENT IN CHILDREN AND

ADOLESCENTS: A META-ANALYSIS OF STUDIES APPLYING TRANSDIAGNOSTIC CBT. J Garca-
Escalera, B Sandin, RM Valiente, P Chorot, Universidad Nacional de Educacin a Distancia (UNED),
Madrid, Spain
INTRODUCTION: Several epidemiological studies indicate that anxiety and depressive disorders are very
common in children and adolescents. Despite of the high comorbidty rates between these disorders (up to
70% in some epidemiological studies), most existing protocols are aimed to address specific disorders.
However, some protocols focused on common risk and maintening factors to anxiety and depression, i.e.,
based on the transdiaagnostic approach and on Transdiagnostic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-CBT),
have begun to emerge. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of studies applying T-CBT to
children and adolescents. In contrast with previous reviews, only studies employing transdiagnostic theory-
based unified protocols were included. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in March
2016 in the following databases: PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Scopus and Science Direct. A total of 5
studies (4 uncontrolled studies and 1 randomized controlled trial) including a total of 172 subjects met the
inclussion criteria. Treatment efficacy was examined using a random effects model and taking into account
pre- and post-treatment data. RESULTS: TCBT was generally associated with positive outcome. Results
showed a medium and significant effect size on anxiety (Hedges g = 0.45; p < 0.001) and depression
(Hedges g = 0.50; p < 0.001). The herogeneity was not significant on neither of the meta-analysis
conducted: anxiety (Q (4) = 2.73; I2 < .001; p = .604); depression (Q (3) = 2.59; I2 < .001; p = .460).
DISCUSSION: Overall, the results of this study support the efficacy of the T-CBT as a new therapy for
anxiety and depressive disorders in children and adolescents. However, it should be noted that few studies
were included and that most of them were non-randomized.
LISDEXAMFETAMINE DIMESYLATE INDUCED STUTTERING. N Nagothu, K More, AR Hirsch,

Caribbean Medical University-School of Medicine, Willemstad-Curacao, Netherlands Antilles, Smell & Taste
Treatment and Research Foundation, Chicago, IL, USA
INTRODUCTION: While stuttering has been observed to be precipitated by a wide variety of medications,
lisdexamfetamine has not been cited as a precipitant for stuttering. METHOD: Case Report: A 16 year old
right handed female, high school Junior, presented with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosed in
the third grade, presented with impaired concentration, focus, and easy distractibility. In primary grades, she
was not a class clown nor disruptive, and had an average C grade. She has never been prescribed any
medications for this condition. She disaffirms any stuttering or speech problems. Her only medication is
28
medroxyprogesterone. She denied use of illegal drugs and neurological symptomatology including
problems with coordination, headaches, dizziness or seizures. She was begun on lisdexamfetamine 20 mg
and within four hours she began, which continued most of the day. Stopping lisdexamfetamine eliminated
the stuttering. On repeat challenges, recurrent episodes of stuttering were precipitated. On days she took
no drug no stuttering was present. When this drug was switched to 5 mg of long acting dextroamphetamine
sulfate, concentration improved and stuttering did not recur. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Abrupt onset
of stuttering with the start of lisdexamfetamine, with no past history of stuttering, and alleviation when
discontinued, is strong evidence of causation. The mechanism by which lisdexamfetamine induces
stuttering is unclear. Possibly this represents a lisdexamfetamine induced tic manifested as stuttering, since
stuttering has been postulated to be a form of vocal tic (Bchel & Sommer 2004). Lisdexamfetamine raises
cerebral levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. All these neurotransmitters have been
implicated in the pathophysiology of stuttering. A wide range of regions of the brain, primarily the basal
ganglia-thalamo-cortical motor circuits through the putamen, have been observed to be involved in
stuttering (Alm 2004, Ludlow & Loucks 2003). D-amphetamine has been shown to effect these same areas
of the brain (Findling 2008). Moreover, lisdexamfetamine is reported to enhance anxiety. In those
predisposed to stuttering, anxiety is associated with worsening of this condition (Faraone & Buitelaar 2010).
Upon initiation of lisdexamfatamine, monitoring for the side effect of stuttering is warranted.
BREASTFEEDING DECREASES THE TRANSMISSION OF MATERNAL PRENATAL STRESS-

PROVOKED INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINE PROFILE TO INFANT. HM Uusitupa, H Nupponen, AK
Aatsinki, N Nousiainen, H Pesonen, L Karlsson, H Karlsson, University of Turku, Department of Clinical
Medicine, Turku, Finland
OBJECTIVES: Transmission of maternal stress to offspring begins during prenatal period, and continues
after birth. Postnatally, the transmission continues for example via negative mother-child interaction. The
transmission of stress has negative impact on both somatic and psychological health that often persist into
adulthood. Human breast milk is a complex and unique immunonutritional secretion. Breast milk contains a
wide range of neurotrophic factors and cytokines. Prenatal and postnatal stress transmission from mother to
offspring can potentially be modulated by breastfeeding. In the present study, our aim was to reveal how
breastfeeding modulates stress transmission from mother to infant through cytokine transmission
modification. METHODS: Study subjects (n=25) were drawn from an ongoing large Finnish birth cohort
study FinnBrain (n=4010). The prenatal stress was analyzed from the questionnaires (PRAQ, anxiety;
EPDS, depression symptoms; ASS/SCL-90, anxiety) and mothers having anxiety and/or depression
symptoms were taken as cases and mothers who had not experienced such symptoms were taken as
controls. Serum and breast milk cytokine levels were analysed in a single assay run using Bio-Plex Pro
Human Cytokine 21- and 27-Plex Assay kits (Bio-Rad, Hercules, CA). RESULTS: There was a clear
difference in the maternal serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines in maternal serum samples after birth
between mothers having prenatal depression and mothers without (cases had higher levels, p=0.002). On
the contrary, breast milk was regulated inversely (cases had lower levels, p=0.014). As a result, there was
no difference between cases and controls in infant serum. CONCLUSIONS: Breast milk seems to act as a
inhibitor of maternal stress-provoked proinflammatory cytokine profile transmission to infant.
29
Day 3. Friday, June 24, 2016
SYMPOSIUM ON ALTERNATIVE MODELS IN BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: 9th
INTERNATIONAL ZEBRAFISH NEUROSCIENCE SYMPOSIUM AND WORKSHOP
Chairs: AV Kalueff, ISBS Fellow (USA), DE Echevarria, ISBS Fellow (USA)
ZNRC LECTURE: ZEBRAFISH MODELS IN NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH. AV Kalueff, ISBS Fellow, A

Kaluyeva, C Song, International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), ZENEREI Institute,
Slidell, LA, USA; Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg,
Institute of Chemical Technologies, Institute of Biological Science, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg,
Russia; Research Institute for Marine Drugs and Nutrition, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are rapidly emerging as an important model organism for neuroscience research.
The behavioral/phenotypic complexity of zebrafish allows for thorough dissection of complex human brain
disorders and drug-evoked pathological states. As numerous zebrafish models become available with a
wide spectrum of behavioral, genetic, and environmental methods to test novel drugs, I will discuss recent
zebrafish phenomics methods to facilitate drug discovery, particularly in the field of biological psychiatry.
Additionally, behavioral, neurological, and endocrine endpoints are becoming increasingly well-
characterized in zebrafish, making them an inexpensive, robust and effective model for toxicology research
and pharmacological screening. Finally, I will critically evaluate the limitations of utilizing this model
organism, and outline future strategies of research in the field of zebrafish phenomics.
ZNRC PRESENTATION: TECNIPLAST USA SOLUTIONS FOR AQUATIC NEUROSCEINCE

RESEARCH. TECNIPLAST, USA
Tecniplast has more than 60 years of experience in the design, manufacture and distribution of specialized
housing products and related equipment for the laboratory animal industry, including zebrafish and other
aquatic species. With headquarters in Europe and North America (USA & Canada), and seven subsidiaries
around the world, Tecniplast has everything that is required to serve the industry globally: R&D, product
design, manufacturing, assembly, quality control, service and support, shipping and logistics, sales and
marketing, administrative and client services. This talk, as part of the International Zebrafish Neuroscience
Research Consortium (ZNRC) workshop sponsored by Tecniplast, will discuss the Companys solutions for
aquatic neuroscience research, with a special focus on zebrafish applications.
EFFECTS OF A NON-COMPETITIVE N-METHYL-D-ASPARTATE (NMDA) ANTAGONIST, TILETAMINE,

IN ADULT ZEBRAFISH. TO Kolesnikova, SL Khatsko, VA Shevyrin, YuYu Morzherin, AV Kalueff, Ural
Federal University, Management of Federal Drug Control Service of Russia in Sverdlovsk Region,
Ekaterinburg, Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
Tiletamine is an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist chemically related to ketamine and

phencyclidine. A common veterinary anesthetic drug, tiletamine is a Schedule III controlled substance. It
exerts sedative properties in humans and animals, and also has an abuse potential and dissociative
hallucinogenic action. However, the profile of tiletamine CNS effects remains poorly understood,
necessitating novel models and in-vivo screens. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are rapidly becoming popular model
organisms for screening various neuroactive drugs, including those acting at NMDA receptors. The present
study investigated acute behavioral effects of 1, 5 and 10 mg/l of tiletamine on adult zebrafish. In the novel
tank test, 20-min immersion exposure to 1 mg/l of tiletamine produced no overt differences from control
zebrafish (receiving 0.1% DMSO), except for reduced top entries. In contrast, tiletamine at 5 and 10 mg/l
exerted robust dose-dependent sedative effects in zebrafish (also darkening their skin coloration, similar to
ketmanine and PCP). Together, these findings demonstrate high sensitivity of zebrafish to neurotoxic
effects of tiletamine and confirm the utility of fish-based aquatic screens for studying neuroactive properties
of NMDA antagonists. RESEARCH SUPPORT: Ural Federal University, Russia.
30
THE INTERNATIONAL
STRESS AND BEHAVIOR
SOCIETY (ISBS)
Established in 2007
President: Allan V. Kalueff, PhD (2015-2017)
Vice-President: Victor M. Klimenko, MD, PhD (2015-2017)
ISBS Executive Office Coordinator: Nataliya A. Zinevych
www.stress-and-behavior.com
info@stressandbehavior.com
ISBS is the international society of experts working with a wide range of topics in the field of translational
neuroscience, neurobehavioral sciences, biopsychology and biopsychiatry, with a particular focus on stress,
stress-related neurobehavioral phenotypes, their neural, molecular and genetic mechanisms, as well as
stress-evoked neuropsychiatric disorders.
Anyone with an interest in stress-related human or animal behaviors, neurobehavioral disorders and their mechanisms,
wishing to join ISBS, can do so by paying dues. Payment can be made following sending the e-mail form and payment
request to the ISBS Secretariat at info@stressandbehavior.com. Once the form and the payment have been received,
you will receive a membership confirmation.
Membership:
Regular membership dues are $100.00 for the period of three years, or $60.00 for the period of one year. Student
(undergraduate and graduate) membership dues are $60.00 for the period of three years.
Regular membership benefits include a $50.00 discount for registration for any of the ISBS Conferences,
symposia, workshops and summer schools.
Student members will benefit from a $25.00 discount for registration for any of the ISBS Conferences,
symposia, workshops and summer schools.
Membership cycle starts January 1st. ISBS Members benefit from reduced STRESS, BRAIN & BEHAVIOR
journal subscription fees: $70.00 (regular member), $55.00 (student member).
ISBS Membership application form (please fill in and send by e-mail to the ISBS Secretariat at
info@stressandbehavior.com, with the subject ISBS Membership request)
Name, Family name:

Position/Title:
Institute/Company:
Category - please select one:
Regular member, 3-year term ($ 100.00)
Regular member, 1-year term ($ 60.00)
Student member, 3-year term ($ 60.00)
Address (affiliation):
City:
Postal code:
State:
Country:
Phone, Fax:
E-mail address:
www:
31
Fellows of ISBS:
The ISBS Fellowship (with Life membership) is the highest honor bestowed by the International Stress
and Behavior Society. It is awarded annually to international scholars, in recognition of their
contribution to clinical or translational neuroscience, biological psychiatry and stress physiology
research and/or education, as well as for their long-standing support of the ISBS mission and its
national, regional or international programs.
Dr. Mikhail Aghajanov (Yerevan Medical University, Armenia), 2015

Dr. Elliott Beaton (University of New Orleans, USA), 2015
Dr. Evgeniy Budygin (Wake Forest Medical Center, USA), 2014
Dr. David Echevarria (University of Southern Mississippi, USA), 2014
Dr. Alexey Egorov (Sechenov Institute, Russia), 2014
Dr. Irina Ekimova (Sechenov Institute, Russia), 2013
Dr. Raul Gainetdinov (Italian Institute of Technology, Italy), 2013
Dr. Allan Kalueff (ZENEREI Institute, USA), ISBS President, 2013
Dr. Victor Klimenko (Institute of Experimental Medicine, Russia), Vice-President, 2013
Dr. Mamiko Koshiba (Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Japan), 2014
Dr. Dusko Kozic (University of Novi Sad, Serbia), 2016
Dr. Shun Nakamura (Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Japan), 2014
Dr. Tatyana Nevidimova (National Mental Health Institute, Russia), 2014
Dr. Yuriy Pastuhov (Sechenov Institute, Russia), 2013
Dr. Mikhail Pletnikov (Johns Hopkins University, USA), 2015
Dr. Tatyana Sollertinskaya (Sechenov Institute, Russia), 2013
Dr. Adam Stewart (ZENEREI Institute, USA), 2015
Dr. Petr Shabanov (Institute of Experimental Medicine, Russia), 2016
Dr. Tatyana Strekalova (Maastricht University, Netherlands), 2014
Dr. Gilbertha St. Rose (Eden Herbs, St. Lucia), 2015
Dr. Oleg Syropiatov (UAPO, Ukraine), 2013
Dr. Sergei Tsikunov (Institute of Experimental Medicine, Russia), 2014
Dr. Jason Warnick (Arkansas Tech University, USA), 2014
Dr. Louis Newman (Destiny Medical School, St. Lucia), 2016
Dr. Urban Seraphin (Allied Health Council, St. Lucia), 2016
ISBS Fellow Nominees:

Dr. Vsevolod Rozanov (Odessa University, Ukraine), 2017
32
THE INTERNATIONAL STRESS AND BEHAVIOR
SOCIETY (ISBS)
Please join our 2016-2017 ISBS conferences:
11th International Regional Neuroscience and Biological

Psychiatry Conference "STRESS AND BEHAVIOR"
(North America)
June 22-24, 2017, Miami Beach, FL, USA
8th International Regional Neuroscience and Biological

(Asia)
July 23-25, 2016, Yokohama, Japan
9th ISBS Conference: Neurobiology of Mind and Body: Behavior,

Stress, Brain Diseases, Immunity, Drugs and Nutrition
October 27-29, 2016, Zhanjiang, China
International Neuroscience and Biological Psychiatry ISBS

Symposium "TRANSLATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE OF STRESS",
November 10-11, 2016, San Diego, CA, USA
10th International Neuroscience and Biological Psychiatry

ISBS Regional (S. America) Conference
"NEUROSCIENCE OF STRESS"
December 1-3, 2016, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
4th Caribbean Biomedical Research Days

CBRD-2017
January 16-18, 2017, Rodney Bay, St. Lucia
24th International Neuroscience and Biological

May 16-19, 2017, St. Petersburg, Russia
E-mail: info@stressandbehavior.com
www.stress-and-behavior.com 33

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THE INTERNATIONAL STRESS AND BEHAVIOR SOCIETY (ISBS)

Stress and Behavior

10.30-10.45 ISBS OPENING CEREMONY AND WELCOMING ADDRESSES

10.45-11.20 ISBS OPENING PLENARY LECTURE: NEUROBIOLOGY OF RODENT SELF-

11.20-11.50 ISBS SPECIAL TALK: TEACHING BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. S Sabbag,

12.20-12.40 ISBS CLINICAL TALK: THE INFLUENCE OF CHRONIC ILLNESS ON SELF-

12.40-13.50 LUNCH BREAK (FREE TIME) AND EXHIBITION

13.50-17.00 ZUKOWSKA SYMPOSIUM ON STRESS NEUROSCIENCE

13.50-14.00 INTRODUCTION: PROFESSOR ZOFIA M ZUKOWSKA

14.00-14.20 INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF ALPHA4-CONTAINING NICOTINIC

14.20-14.40 STRESS PROMOTES TRANSITION TO HEIGHTENED NICOTINE INTAKE IN

15.00-15.20 SEX DIFFERENCES IN NEURONAL ACTIVITY AND EXPRESSION OF SMALL

15.20-16.00 COFFEE BREAK AND EXHIBITION

16.00-16.15 BRAIN-INTERVIEW ASSESSMENT IN UKRAINIAN PATIENTS WITH

16.15-16.35 HOW DO SOCIALLY EXCLUDED YOUTH DEAL WITH STRESS? A Wilczynska,

16.35-17.00 EFFECTS OF CHRONIC MEMANTINE TREATMENT ON HIPPOCAMPAL

17.00-17.45 ROUND TABLE: ETHICS IN BIOMEDICINE CURRENT CHALLENGES

10.00-12.10 LAPIN SYMPOSIUM ON BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY

10.00-10.10 INTRODUCTION: PROFESSOR IZYASLAV P LAPIN

10.10-10.30 VITAMIN D STATUS AMONG PATIENTS WITH ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION.

10.30-10.45 MENTAL HEALTH STATISTICS AT ST. TAMMANY SHERIFFS OFFICE. S

10.45-11.05 CASE PRESENTATION: STRESS-INDUCED CHRONIC FATIGUE AND

11.20-11.40 COFFEE BREAK AND EXHIBITION

11.40-12.00 PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR IN

12.00-12.10 CONCLUDING REMARKS

12.10-13.30 LUNCH BREAK (FREE TIME) AND EXHIBITION

13.30-18.00 INTERACTIVE POSTER SESSION

ANXIOLYTIC-LIKE EFFECTS OF L-ASCORBIC ACID AND KETAMINE IN MICE. DB

16.00-16.30 COFFEE BREAK AND EXHIBITION

10.00-14.00 SYMPOSIUM ON ALTERNATIVE MODELS IN BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: 9th

10.10-11.00 ZNRC LECTURE: ZEBRAFISH MODELS IN NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH. AV

11.00-11.40 ZNRC PRESENTATION: TECNIPLAST USA SOLUTIONS FOR AQUATIC

11.40-12.15 WORKSHOP AND DEMONSTRATION

12.15-12.45 COFFEE BREAK AND EXHIBITION

12.45-13.00 EFFECTS OF A NON-COMPETITIVE N-METHYL-D-ASPARTATE

13.00-14.00 ROUND TABLE AND ASK-THE-EXPERT SESSION: FUTURE OF ZEBRAFISH

14.00-14.15 CLOSING CEREMONY

ISBS SPECIAL TALK: TEACHING BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. S Sabbag, Psychiatry Residency

ISBS CLINICAL TALK: THE INFLUENCE OF CHRONIC ILLNESS ON SELF-REPORTED RESILIENCY

INTRODUCTION: PROF. ZOFIA M. ZUKOWSKA. This regular

STRESS PROMOTES TRANSITION TO HEIGHTENED NICOTINE INTAKE IN RATS: IMPLICATIONS

SEX DIFFERENCES IN NEURONAL ACTIVITY AND EXPRESSION OF SMALL CONDUCTANCE

BRAIN-INTERVIEW ASSESSMENT IN UKRAINIAN PATIENTS WITH PSYCHOSIS. N Orlova, V Tarasov,

INTRODUCTION: PROF. IZYASLAV P. LAPIN. This

VITAMIN D STATUS AMONG PATIENTS WITH ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION. KK Abdul-Razzak, SO

CASE PRESENTATION: STRESS-INDUCED CHRONIC FATIGUE AND DEPRESSION. AB Klafter,

PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR IN GUYANA. JT Balseiro, BP

INTRODUCTION: An estimated 804,000 suicide deaths occurred worldwide in 2012, representing an

INTERACTIVE POSTER SESSION

ANXIOLYTIC-LIKE EFFECTS OF L-ASCORBIC ACID AND KETAMINE IN MICE. DB Fraga, G

STUDY OF SELECTIVE AND CONJOINT IMMUNOLESIONS OF SEPTOHIPPOCAMPAL

LISDEXAMFETAMINE AUGMENTATION OF HEMATOPHOBIA. MR Chand, ML Walford, S Kanwar, AR

INTRODUCTION: Hematophobia afflicts 3% of the population. Lisdexamfetamine, used in the treatment of

BRAINSTEM ASTROCYTES MEDIATE RESPIRATORY RESPONSES TO MILD STRESS IN RATS. S

DEPRESSION AND SOCIAL STIGMA IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS. A Pendi, J Ashraf, KB

MINOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS AND FACTORS ASSOCIADTED IN ELDER PEOPLE. MA Ulhoa,

ACTIVATION OF THE ATTACHMENT SYSTEM BY MULTIPLE CHRONIC DISEASES AS STRESSFUL

INTRODUCTION: Attachment theory provides a biopsychosocial model to explain how individual

EXPERIENCES OF SEVERE CHILDHOOD MALTREATMENT, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND

TASTE OF STRESS IN THE FACE OF FEAR: ANXIETY INDUCED PHANTOGEUSIA. BE Kietyeta, AR

INTRODUCTION: Precipitation of phantogeusia by anxiety has yet to be described. Such a case is

A CORRELATION STUDY ON DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS, PAIN, CONSTIPATION, AND SEROTONIN

GENE BY COGNITION INTERACTION ON STRESS-INDUCED ATTENTION FOR FOOD. R Schepers,

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEMORY AND THE STEROIDOGENIC ENZYME IN CUPRIZONE-

Program and Proceedings - 7th International Regional "Stress and Behavior" Neuroscience and Biopsychiatry Conference (North America), June 22-24, 2016, Miami Beach, FL, USA

Program and Proceedings - 7th International Regional "Stress and Behavior" Neuroscience and Biopsychiatry Conference (North America), June 22-24, 2016, Miami Beach, FL, USA