جستجوی مقالات مرتبط با کلیدواژه « cognition » در نشریات گروه « پزشکی »

Whole Brain Radiation Therapy (WBRT) has been effective in the management of brain metastases, giving good local control but has shown to have potential neurocognitive effects. Assessing its effect on neurocognitive function is decisive assessing quality of life and therapeutic decision-making.  

This is an observational study at R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital from May 2022 to April 2023 involving 60 biopsy proven carcinoma patients with brain metastases fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria. All received 30Gray (Gy)/10# WBRT over 2 weeks. Neurocognitive function assessment using Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) were conducted before and at 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months post WBRT.  

The study, encompassing a median age of 58, revealed 43.3% had lung primary and 35% breast primary. Mean MMSE score was 27 pre radiation. Following WBRT, a more than equals to 3-point MMSE decrease occurred in 6.6%, 11.6%, and 18.3% at 2nd, 3rd, and 6th months post radiation respectively. Neurocognitive decline was 36% for those above 50 years and 64% for those below 50 years by the 6th month. At 2nd months 88.3% patients had controlled disease having a decrease in MMSE score by 1.6, while 11.6% with uncontrolled disease showed 3.1 MMSE change and the same trend continued at 3rd and 6th month observations.  

WBRT is crucial for local control of brain metastases, but neurocognitive decline, especially under 50, is of major concern. Study results offers awareness for pre-treatment counseling on WBRT benefits, risks and consideration for Hippocampal Avoidance WBRT or WBRT with memantine, and requires further extensive research.

Cognitive decline induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is the most common problem during ageing. Most of the synthetic drugs used for cognitive impairment have undesirable side effects in patients. Therefore, in the current research, the effects of Dracocephalum multicaule on cognitive impairment and hippocampal neurodegeneration induced by CCH were investigated.

CCH or sham surgical procedure was carried out in male Wistar rats. After three weeks, the animals were randomly assigned to D. multicaule extract or vehicle administration for 15 days. CCH induction was carried out by the bilateral occlusion of the common carotids. Morris water maze (MWM) and Nissl staining were used to evaluate cognitive function and hippocampal neuron density in rats, respectively.

Dracocephalum multicaule administration increased the time spent in the target quadrant in CCH rats during the MWM test (P<0.05). D. multicaule improved hippocampal neuronal cell density in CCH animals (P<0.05).

Dracocephalum multicaule can improve spatial memory and hippocampal neuronal injury caused by CCH.

As the global geriatric population continues to grow, degenerative-related disorders such as impaired cognitive function, keep increasing. This is partly due to the aging process, which triggers an inflammaging phenomenon, characterized by elevated levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and caspase 3 cytokines. Moringa oleifera stands out as a solution, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. This study aimed to assess the effects of M. oleifera leaves extract and physical activity on the levels of TGF-β, caspase 3, and cognitive function in geriatric mice model. Thirty mice were divided into five groups. The C1 group served as the negative control (given standardized food and water), while C2 was the positive control (treated with D-galactose 150 mg/kg BW/day intraperitoneally for eight weeks, followed by swimming for 30 minutes 2x/week, four weeks). The T1, T2, and T3 treatment groups received D-galactose 150 mg/kg BW/day for eight weeks and M. oleifera leaves extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day, respectively, along with a similar swimming session. At the end of the study, the mice were assessed for cognitive function using the Y-maze test, and then TGF-β and caspase 3 levels were measured. The differences in TGF-β and caspase 3 levels between groups were statistically significant (p<0.05); however, no significant differences were observed in the cognitive function in any group (p>0.05). Moringa oleifera leaves extract significantly influenced TGF-β and caspase 3 levels but did not affect the cognitive function of the geriatric mice model.

Two common teaching methods, the lecture and concept map method, focus on understanding how people learn effectively. The concept of learning styles pertains to the different ways that individuals prefer to learn. This study compares the effectiveness of lecture and concept map methods on student learning outcomes, considering the influence of learning styles (visual, auditory, read/write, kinesthetic).

This randomized controlled trial with 78 public health students compared the effectiveness of concept mapping and traditional lecture methods. The VARK questionnaire was used to assess participants' learning styles. The intervention group received concept mapping instruction, while the control group received traditional lecture instruction. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software.

The concept map method employed in the intervention group had a statistically significant effect on the learning of students with visual learning styles (p = 0.036). The mean learning style scores for the intervention group in the visual learning style increased from 45.2 to 51.3, while the mean scores for the control group increased from 44.8 to 46.1. No statistically significant differences were reported between the two groups in the other three learning styles (auditory, read/write, kinesthetic).

Concept mapping is an effective teaching strategy with visual learning styles. Educators can use concept mapping to enhance deep learning experiences with different learning styles. The VARK model can be used to assess students' learning styles and guide instructional decisions. To create an inclusive and effective learning environment, educators should use a variety of teaching strategies and regularly assess students' learning styles.

This study investigates the potential effect of sub-chronic exposure to sodium metabisulfite (NaMBS) on the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of female Wistar rats. 

A total of 24 adolescent female Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (6 rats each) as follows: Group 1 (control) received 0.5 mL of normal saline; group 2 was administered by 100 mg/kg of NaMBS; group 3 was issued by 300 mg/kg of NaMBS; group 4 received 500 mg/kg of NaMBS. The route of administration was oral for 28 days. After completing the administration phase, the Y-maze test was conducted. Subsequently, the rats were euthanized, and tissue samples from the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were collected for biochemical assays, precisely measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) levels, as well as histological studies, such as hematoxylin and eosin, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Meanwhile, the neuronal count was done. 

The learning and memory functions of rats in the treated and control groups were similar (number of alternations: P>0.05). The group treated with 500 mg/kg NaMBS presented indications of neurodegeneration in CA1 of the hippocampus and high glial fibrillary acidic protein-immunoreactivity but had no noticeable effects on layer II/III of the prefrontal cortex. Regardless of the dosage of NaMBS, malondialdehyde level was the same (P>0.05) for all groups; however, in the group that received 500 mg/kg NaMBS, the acetylcholinesterase level was significantly reduced (P˂0.05). 

This study revealed that while NaMBS can lead to neurodegeneration in the hippocampus of Wistar rats at 500 mg/kg, the prefrontal cortex remains resilient and spatial memory is unaffected, but a decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity raises cognitive concerns, emphasizing the need for cautious consideration of its use.

Academic staff have different roles which may impose a high mental workolad on them and affect their cognitive function. This study was designed to assess different subscales of mental worklaod and cognitive function in university academic staff. 

This was a cross-sectional study on 86 faculty members of Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences. Stratified sampling was used to select participants from different schools. The participants were divided into basic sciences and clinical faculty members. Mental workload was assessed by National Aeronautics and Space Administration-Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Cognitive function was assessed by Stroop test. Data were analyzed by SPSS 26 using Shapiro-Wilks test, Student’s T-test, Mann Whitney U test, univariate ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis test. The level of significance was 0.05. 

Mean age and work history of the participants was 43.6±8.6 yr. and 11.7±9.1 yr., respectively. Mental workload, especially two aspects of mental demand and performance, was high and it was significantly higher in the participants from school of medicine and among those with executive/administrative responsibilities. From subscales of mental workload, physical demand was significantly higher among clinical than basic sciences faculty members (p<0.05). Among different aspects of cognitive function, only numbers of congruent errors were significantly higher among clinical faculties. Mental workload and cognitive function were not significantly correlated.

This study showed a high level of mental workload in university academic staff, especially in clinical faculty members, but this high mental workload did not affect their cognitive function.

Visual-related abilities such as visual memory and visuo-constructional skills are among the cognitive abilities with fundamental importance for normal cognitive function, and its impairment is manifested in many neurological and psychiatric disorders. The present study aimed to generate normative data for the Benson Complex Figure Test (BCFT), a well-known simplified version of the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test, in Iran and to assess the effect of demographic variables of age, gender, and education on its various measures.

The present study was conducted in 2017-2018 as part of the Iranian Brain Imaging Database (IBID) project. The study sample consisted of 300 normal individuals in the age range of 20 to 70 years, with an equal number of participants and an equal proportion of genders in each age decade (# 60). Independent and dependent variables, respectively, were age (classified by five decades including 20-30 year olds, 31-40 year olds, 41-50 year olds, 51-60 year olds, and 61-70 year olds) and performance in the BCFT (defined in terms of 3 scores on copy, recall, and recognition of the geometric figure and 2 scores on time of copy and recall).

The correlation matrix among the variables showed that age and education has a significant correlation with most the BCFT scores, while gender only has a significant correlation with recognition score. Multivariate analysis of variance showed the effect of age, gender, and their interaction on scores, while education did not make a significant difference in the BCFT scores. Also, the t-test showed a significant difference between men and women in recall and recognition, so that women and men showed better  performance in recall and recognition, respectively.

In summary, our results suggest that demographic variables of age, gender, and education affect visual memory and visuospatial abilities, and it is essential to generate normative data for research or clinical settings.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system, causing demyelination and axon loss. Cognitive impairment is also prevalent in patients. This study aims to measure magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and their relation to cognitive impairments in MS patients.

This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 50 patients with a definite diagnosis of MS at Firoozgar Hospital in Tehran Province, Iran, from 2019 to 2021. MRI, complete neurological and psychological examinations, and information documented in the records were used to prepare a complete list of clinical, neurological, and psychological manifestations. The severity of these symptoms was assessed, and patients were scored according to the expanded disability status scale (EDSS), cholinergic pathways hyperintensities scale (CHIPS), and brief international cognitive assessment for multiple sclerosis (BICAMS) criteria.  

This study included 36 women and 14 men with a mean age of 34.14±9.4 years. Relapse and remission were observed in 70% of patients. CHIPS score had a significant relationship with spinal symptoms. Also, the BICAMS score of patients showed a significant relationship with limbic involvement in MRI. The third ventricular diameter and CHIPS score were positively correlated with the BICAMS score. Patients’ EDSS score had a significant relationship with the symbol digit modalities test (SDMT) score.  

In this study, a significant relationship is observed between the size of the third ventricle and the CHIPS score with decreased cognitive function in MS patients. Therefore, MRI can be used to suspect cognitive disorders in MS patients.

As Korea rapidly enters a super-aged society, interest in depression, a change in psychological function that occurs with aging, is increasing. Although previous studies have suggested a relationship between depression and cognitive decline in older adults, they have not clarified how cognitive decline leads to depression. We aimed to examine the mediating effects of digital information utilization ability (DIUA) and interpersonal contact (IC) in the relationship between cognitive function and depression in older adults.

This descriptive cross-sectional study used data from the 2020 Korean Elderly Survey. The participants were 9,920 seniors aged 65 years and older. Descriptive statistics, t-test, and one-way ANOVA correlation analysis were performed using SPSS 24.0 and the dual mediation effect was analyzed using PROCESS Macro for SPSS v.3.5 model 6.

Depression had a negative correlation with cognitive function (r=-.26, P<.001), DIUA (r=-.20, P<.001), and IC (r=-.13, P<.001). Cognitive function was positively correlated with DIUA (r=.40, P<.001) and IC (r=.08, P<.001). There was a positive correlation between DIUA and IC (r=.10, P<.001). Finally, the mediating effect of cognitive function on depression through the dual parameters of DIUA and IC was also statistically significant (B=.-001, 95% CI [-.002, -.001).

The depression caused by cognitive decline can be reduced by improving older adults’ ability to use digital information and interact with others. Therefore, social interventions to increase the interpersonal contact of older adults is required, and education programs for improving older adults’ ability to utilize digital information may be developed to increase indirect contact using digital devices as well as direct contact.

 Women recovering from breast cancer frequently worry about relapse, leading to severe impairment in their quality of life and economic burdens of treatment. Therefore, the current study attempted to predict health anxiety in patients recovering from breast cancer based on the intolerance of uncertainty and the mediating roles of cognitive flexibility and cyberchondria.

 This descriptive correlational study included 196 patients with breast cancer referred to Hazrat Rasool Akram, Bazarganan, and Tarbiat Modares Hospitals for post-treatment follow-up and Rahe_Aramesh and Sepid clinics in Tehran for psychotherapy. In this research study, the convenience sampling method was employed. Questionnaires (Freeston et al. (1994), Salkovskis health anxiety (1989), McElroy and Shevline cyberchondria (2014), and Dennis and Vander wal's (2010) cognitive flexibility) were used as tools to collect data for this survey. Respondents completed questionnaires in person or online. SPSS-25 and R software were used for data analysis. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling method.

 The results of this research indicate that the proposed model is a good fit. There was a positive and significant correlation between intolerance of uncertainty and health anxiety with the mediating role of cyberchondria in individuals recovered from breast cancer (P<0.01). In addition, cyberchondria serves as a positive and significant mediator in the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and health anxiety (P <0.01).

 To improve anxiety, psychological interventions in breast cancer patients should target factors such as intolerance of ambiguity, cognitive flexibility, and cyberchondria.

Specificity impairment is a memory alteration that occurs in people with major depressive disorder (MDD). In this investigation, we intended to shine a light on obscure aspects of executive resource and capture and rumination frameworks to determine whether these theories are reliable in predicting underlying mechanisms for specificity impairment.

In this correlational research, we used the convenience sampling method over two months, between January and February 2021. We administrated the digit span working memory test, ruminative response scale (RRS), and autobiographical memory interview to indicate whether working memory capacity and subtypes of rumination can predict memory specificity in people with MDD. Using RRS enabled us to determine the correlation between subtypes of rumination and memory specificity. 

Our samples consisted of 105 adults (53 males (50.5%) and 52 females (49.5%)) with MDD. The participants’ mean age was 33.38 years with a range of 22-43 years. The results no significant difference between gender, marriage, and age groups in terms of memory specificity (P>0.05). The results of the Spearman correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis showed that only working memory capacity can predict memory specificity (r=0.216, p<0.05). There was no significant correlation between brooding and reflection, as two subtypes of rumination and memory specificity.

In line with our results, it should be stated that depression is accompanied by executive deficits, which result in memory impairments. These impairments are due to the structural and functional alterations in the brain in the depressed group. As the Carfax model emphasized, working memory capacity is not only required to maintain, define, and hold the optimal retrieval model but it is also crucial to inhibit interfering autobiographical information. Nonetheless, neither brooding nor reflection rumination can predict memory specificity. Therefore, memory capacity is probably occupied due to ineffective search strategies, not rumination.

This research is primarily conducted to determine the psychometric properties of the Beliefs about Emotions Scale (BES) in community and clinical samples. The BES is a scale measure used for evaluating individuals’ beliefs in terms of how acceptable it is for them to experience and express their emotions.

This study was conducted on two separate samples. In the first part, 300 individuals were selected from a general sample in Tehran using the quota sampling method. For the second part of the study, we used purposive sampling to gather data from 119 patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and 121 patients from Somatic Symptoms Disorder (SSD), whose disorders were diagnosed based on the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. The BES structural validity was examined through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Additionally, test-retest composite and internal consistency indices were explored to investigate the reliability of the BES score. Finally, the associations of the BES score with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ), Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) scores were highlighted to investigate the discriminant and convergent validity of the BES score.

According to CFAs, the one-factor model for the BES demonstrated a good fit with the data collected from both the clinical and community samples. The internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was satisfactory in the community sample (α = 0.84) and the clinical samples of SSD (α = 0.86) and MDD (α = 0.83). The community sample demonstrated high overall test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.93, P < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.89 - 0.95). In terms of convergent validity, the findings confirmed that in the MMD sample, there was a significant relationship between the BES and almost all measures (including Depression (r = 0.39, P < 0.01), Anxiety (r = 0.21, P < 0.05), Self-Sacrifice (r = 0.27, P < 0.01), MPS-total score (r = 0.22, P < 0.05), DERS total score (r = 0.50, P < 0.01), and Suppression (r = 0.38, P < 0.01). However, in the SSD group, this finding was not found.

The results demonstrated that the Persian BES is a reliable and valid scale of maladaptive beliefs about emotions which could be implemented for both clinical and research aims.

Neural prosthetics employ different signals, such as chemical or electrical signals from the human nervous system, for stimulating or restoring the capabilities of injured people or different disease conditions (1). They are artificial extensions of the body that repair or fortify the human nervous system after various injuries or diseases (2).From ancient times, the study of neural systems has been a subject of fascination. Significant progress has been made in our understanding of neural systems, from the ancient understanding of the role of the brain in the body to today's research on artificial intelligence. Three main types of neural systems have been identified today: sensory, motor, and associative (3). These systems work together to let us perceive, process, and react to the world around us.The approach helps patients with various diseases, and implanting neural chips in the brain, is encouraging. These chips can monitor brain activity and relax symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and depression (4, 5). However, before widespread implementation, there is a need to address ethical concerns and potential risks.