Improving attention control in dysphoria through cognitive training: Transfer effects on working memory capacity and filtering efficiency

Impaired filtering of irrelevant information from working memory is thought to underlie reduced working memory capacity for relevant information in dysphoria. The current study investigated whether training‐related gains in working memory performance on the adaptive dual n‐back task could result in improved inhibitory function. Efficacy of training was monitored in a change detection paradigm allowing measurement of a sustained event‐related potential asymmetry sensitive to working memory capacity and the efficient filtering of irrelevant information. Dysphoric participants in the training group showed training‐related gains in working memory that were accompanied by gains in working memory capacity and filtering efficiency compared to an active control group. Results provide important initial evidence that behavioral performance and neural function in dysphoria can be improved by facilitating greater attentional control.     

The association of endothelin-1 gene polymorphism and its plasma levels with hypertension and coronary atherosclerosis

IntroductionEndothelin-1 (ET-1) is the most potent among all vasoconstrictors, and its association with cardiovascular diseases has been reported before. Our aim was to investigate the association of ET-1 plasma level and its gene polymorphisms (rs5370 and rs10478694) with hypertension and coronary atherosclerosis (CA).Material and methodsThis study was carried out on 128 women and 132 men, who were divided into 4 groups: hypertensive without atherosclerosis (H+A–); hypertensive with atherosclerosis (H+A+); non-hypertensive with atherosclerosis (H–A+); and non-hypertensive without atherosclerosis (control group). Endothelin-1 plasma levels were measured by ELISA, and gene polymorphisms were detected by polymerase chain reaction – restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods. Coronary artery diseases (CAD) were then defined based on angiography data.ResultsThe ET-1 plasma level was significantly higher in the H+A+ group in comparison with the other groups, especially H+A–. Comparing people with CA and those without it, the highest frequency level of the T allele of rs5370 was found in people with CA. Significantly higher frequencies of the 3A allele were detected in hypertensive patients in comparison with non-hypertensive individuals, when analyzing rs10478694.ConclusionsEndothelin-1 plasma level shows a direct association with the risk of CA development. The T allele of rs5370 can be regarded as a risk factor for CA development. The 3A allele of rs10478694 can be associated with the risk of hypertension; therefore, it can be concluded that ET-1 and its gene polymorphisms play an important role in CA development and hypertension observed in the south-eastern populations of Iran.     

Sputum microbiome profiles identify severe asthma phenotypes of relative stability at 12 to 18 months

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Values as Moderators of the Association between Interpersonal-Psychological Constructs and Suicidal Ideation among Veterans

This study examined whether valuing relationships, achievement, and security moderated the association between interpersonal-psychological constructs (Joiner, 2005 Joiner, T. E. Jr. (2005). Why people die by suicide. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.[Crossref] , [Google Scholar]) and suicidal ideation (SI). A total of 122 veterans completed the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, Survey of Life Principles, and Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation. Valuing relationships moderated the association between thwarted belongingness and SI. Specifically, thwarted belongingness predicted SI among veterans who reported moderate and high, but not low, levels of valuing relationships. The estimated impact of perceived burdensomeness on SI was stronger at higher levels of valuing relationships, but only approached statistical significance. Valuing achievement and security did not moderate the association between perceived burdensomeness and SI. Future research should continue to examine specific values as they relate to interpersonal-psychological constructs and suicidal behavior.     

Huge hydrocephalus: definition, management, and complications

Objective  

Lack of comprehensive knowledge and numerous socioeconomic problems may make the parents leave hydrocephalic children untreated, leading to progressive hydrocephalus and eventual unordinary big head. Management of huge hydrocephalus (HH) differs from common hydrocephalus. We present our experience in the management of these children.     

Multiple sclerosis and environmental risk factors: a case-control study in Iran

Studies have shown an increase in the incidence of MS in Iran. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between environmental exposure and MS in Iran. This case-control study was conducted on 660 MS patients and 421 controls. Many environmental factors are compared between the two groups. Our findings demonstrated that prematurity ([OR = 4.99 (95% CI 1.34–18.68), P = 0.017]), history of measles and mumps ([OR = 1.60 (95% CI 1.05–2.45), P = 0.029; OR = 1.85 (95% CI 1.22–2.78), P = 0.003, respectively]), breast feeding [OR = 2.90 (95% CI 1.49–5.65), P = 0.002], head trauma in childhood ([OR = 8.21 (95% CI 1.56–43.06), P = 0.013]), vaccination in adulthood ([OR = 4.57 (95% CI 1.14–18.41), P = 0.032, respectively]), migraine ([OR = 3.50 (95% CI 1.61–7.59), P = 0.002]), family history of MS, IBD, migraine, and collagen vascular diseases ([OR = 2.73 (95% CI 1.56–4.78), P < 0.001], [OR = 3.14 (95% CI 1.460–6.78), P = 0.004; OR = 3.18 (95% CI 1.83–5.53), P < 0.001; OR = 1.81 (95% CI 1.03–3.20), P = 0.040, respectively]), stressful events ([OR = 32.57 (95% CI 17.21–61.64), P < 0.001]), and microwave exposure ([OR = 3.55 (95% CI 2.24–5.63), P ≤0.001]) were more in the MS group. Sun exposure ([OR = 0.09 (95% CI 0.02–0.38), P = 0.001]), dairy and calcium consumption ([OR = 0.44 (95% CI 0.27–0.71), P = 0.001]), diabetes mellitus ([OR = 0.11 (95% CI 0.01–00.99), P = 0.049], and complete vaccination during childhood appeared to decreased MS risk. Our results investigated many risk factors and protective factors in Iran.     

CD44‐Targeted Docetaxel Conjugate for Cancer Cells and Cancer Stem‐Like Cells: A Novel Hyaluronic Acid‐Based Drug Delivery System

A CD44‐targeted macromolecular conjugate of docetaxel was prepared via a pH‐sensitive linkage to hyaluronic acid and was characterized using NMR, gel permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. The conjugated species were further evaluated in terms of drug release, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, cell cycle inhibition, and subacute toxicity in mice. Cellular microscopic studies revealed that CD44‐expressing cells including MCF‐7 cancer stem cells and MDA‐MB‐231 metastatic breast cancer cells had internalized the conjugates via a selective receptor‐mediated mechanism, leading to cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. Hyaluronic acid–docetaxel conjugates showed specific toxicity only in CD44‐expressing cells in vitro, along with a decreased risk of neutropenia and dose‐dependent mortality in vivo. Hyaluronic acid–drug conjugates represent a promising and efficient platform for solubilization of sparingly soluble molecules as well as active and selective targeted delivery to cancer cells and cancer stem cells.