JCM Webinar | Stress, Rhythms Dysregulation and Bipolar Spectrum: Virtual Reality-Based Interventions To Improve Related Conditions
the chairs
We are pleased to announce a webinar focused on new perspectives regarding stress, rhythm dysregulation, and the bipolar spectrum, with a focus on novel treatments such as those based on the use of virtual reality software to improve cognitive functions and other related psychosocial conditions.
Recent findings highlight that disruptions in social and biological rhythms can play a significant role in the development of mood disorders, particularly under high-stress conditions. Additionally, modern socio-economic and cultural factors may not only increase the prevalence of bipolar disorder but, in some cases, result in paradoxical adaptive traits. The concept of the "Bipolar Spectrum," which originates from the neo-Kraepelinian perspective, extends beyond traditional definitions of bipolar disorder to include a broader range of mental health conditions—such as depression, mood swings, impulse control disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse, and cognitive impairments. This dimensional framework allows to study symptoms along a spectrum, from early functioning traits like hyperactivity, heightened energy, and novelty-seeking, to more accurately identifying prodromal symptoms and the onset of the disorder.
This approach suggests a holistic model that considers biological, psychological, and social factors as integral parts of the therapeutic options. In addition to pharmacological interventions, there is growing interest in non-pharmacological strategies, also supported using new technologies, such as virtual reality software.
We are very much looking forward to seeing you at the JCM Webinar | Stress, Rhythm Dysregulation, and the Bipolar Spectrum: Virtual Reality-Based Interventions to Improve Related Conditions.
Date: 20 November 2024
Time: 3:00 p.m.–5.00 p.m. CET
Webinar ID: 882 6284 8368
Webinar Secretariat: journal.webinar@mdpi.com
Meet the Event Chairs
Meet Our Speakers
Dr. Diego Primavera
Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy;
Diego Primavera is a psychiatrist and researcher with extensive experience in translational medicine within the psychiatric field. His work focuses on identifying genetic markers and biomarkers for diagnosing mood disorders, schizophrenia, and cognitive impairment. He is also engaged in applying innovative technologies, such as immersive virtual reality, for therapeutic mental health interventions. Primavera is the author of numerous peer-reviewed articles and has conducted randomized controlled trials on the use of virtual reality for cognitive and emotional rehabilitation in bipolar disorder, with publications in high-impact journals. He collaborates internationally, making significant contributions to advancements in psychiatric treatments and the promotion of human rights in mental health.
Dr. Goce Kalcev
Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy, The National Alliance for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuroscience GANGLION Skopje, North Macedonia;
Dr. Goce Kalcev is a medical doctor and is currently working as a researcher at the University Hospital of Cagliari, Italy. He completed his medical studies in Stip, North Macedonia, spending several months of scientific–clinical residency at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics in Berlin, Germany, and at the Department of Internal Medicine in Würzburg, Germany. He served as one of the primary proofreaders of rare disease literature in Macedonia at the "Life with Challenges" Association from 2018 to 2019. In 2023, he completed his Ph.D. studies in Science and Technology for Innovation at the University of Cagliari.
Dr. Goce Kalcev highlights his international scientific contributions through active participation in the European COST Projectç Research Innovation and Sustainable Pan-European Network in Peripartum Depression Disorder (Riseup-PPD), where he is the author and co-author of many scientific publications. He is also currently active in developing the National Alliance for Neuromuscular Diseases and Neuroscience GANGLION in Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. His role is aimed at managing the scientific part of the Alliance and developing international cooperation. He has worked as a participant in a number of congresses and training courses in Malta, Portugal, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. He is the author of approximately 50 scientific papers.
Dr. Cesar Aviles Gonzales
Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy, Department of Nursing, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Colombia;
Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez is a contract professor in the Nursing Degree Course at the University of Cagliari, Italy, and a nurse at the University Hospital of Cagliari, Italy. He has obtained advanced degrees, including an MS in Mental Health, a BN in Nursing Research, and a Ph.D. in Nursing and Health.
Dr. Federica Sancassiani
Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy;
Dr. Federica Sancassiani, Ph.D. in Biomedical, Nutritional, and Metabolic Sciences, is a Health Psychologist and Psychotherapist. She is an Associate Professor in Health Professions Sciences in Diagnostic, Care, and Prevention Techniques at the Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy. Dr. Sancassiani's research interests encompass prevention, health promotion, and psychosocial rehabilitation, facilitated by physical activity and the utilization of new technologies, psychosomatics, organizational health, quality of services, and the promotion of human rights in mental health. She is actively involved in didactic endeavors and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles in the aforementioned areas. Since 2010, she has played integral roles in coordinating research projects for various national and international research groups and has been a featured speaker at numerous congresses, seminars, and webinars.
Sponsors and Partners
Organizer
The webinar was hosted via Zoom and required registration to attend. The full recording can be found below. In order to learn about future webinars, you can sign up to our newsletter by clicking “Subscribe” at the top of the page.
"Stress, Rhythms Dysregulation and Bipolar Spectrum"
Edited by Mauro Giovanni Carta and Giulia Cossu
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 January 2025