Chord length sampling with memory effects for spatially heterogeneous Markov media: Application to the rod model.

In this work we propose a modified Chord Length Sampling (CLS) algorithm, endowed with two layers of "memory effects," aimed at solving particle transport problems in one-dimensional spatially nonhomogeneous Markov media. CLS algorithms are a family of Monte Carlo methods which account for the stochastic nature of the media by sampling on-the-fly the random interfaces between material phases during the particle propagation. The possibility for the particles to remember the last crossed interfaces increases the accuracy of these models with respect to reference solutions obtained by solving the Boltzmann equation on a large number of realizations of the Markov media.

Use of a serious game to strengthen medication adherence in euthymic patients with bipolar disorder following a psychoeducational programme: A randomized controlled trial.

Background: Although psychoeducation programmes are the gold-standard intervention in bipolar disorder (BD), more innovative tools are needed to broaden and consolidate their effects, especially on treatment adherence. Serious games could be an option.

Methods: We carried out a two-arm open randomized controlled trial to compare the add-on use of the serious game BIPOLIFE® for one month (n = 20) vs.

A study of the real-world effectiveness of group psychoeducation for bipolar disorders: Is change in illness perception a key mediator of benefit?

Background: Findings from efficacy trials of group psychoeducation (PE) for bipolar disorders (BD) led to its inclusion in evidence-based guidelines as a first-line mandatory treatment. However, pragmatic trials and observational studies are needed to determine its real-world effectiveness, impact on outcomes deemed important to patients and to clarify potential mediators of any benefits.

Methods: Individuals with BD were offered the opportunity to participate in 20h of PE and asked to complete pre- and post-intervention ratings of symptoms, knowledge about BD, medication adherence, and illness perception.

Affect intensity measure in bipolar disorders: a multidimensional approach.

Background: Emotional dysregulation, characterized by high levels of both arousal and intensity of emotional responses, is a core feature of bipolar disorders (BDs). In non-clinical populations, the 40-item Affect Intensity Measure (AIM) can be used to assess the different dimensions of emotional reactivity.

Methods: We analyzed the factor structure of the AIM in a sample of 310 euthymic patients with BD using Principal Component Analysis and examined associations between AIM sub-scale scores and demographic and illness characteristics.

Neurocognitive performance as an endophenotype for bipolar disorder.

Identification of the underlying liability to develop bipolar disorders (BD) is hindered by the genetic complexity and phenotypic heterogeneity of the disease. The use of endophenotypes has been acknowledged as a promising approach that may detect the hidden manifestations of a genetic liability for an illness. One of the most commonly proposed endophenotypes in BD is neurocognitive performance.