Beck Scores Research Articles

Topical tacrolimus orabase versus topical clobetasol propionate orabase in the treatment of symptomatic oral lichen planus: a pilot randomized study.

This pilot study aimed to compare the efficacy of 0.1% tacrolimus and 0.05% clobetasol propionate in orabase for treating symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP). Pilot, randomized, and controlled study conducted on 21 patients with symptomatic OLP, selected according to the clinical and histopathological criteria of Cheng et al. 2016. Twelve patients received 0.1% tacrolimus, and nine received 0.05% clobetasol, both in orabase for 30 days with a two-month follow-up. The patients were examined for scores of signs (ODSS), symptoms (VAS), quality of life (OHIP-14), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Scale), and treatment satisfaction (Hedonic Scale). Both treatments were effective in reducing ODSS, VAS, and Beck Anxiety Scale scores and performed well on the hedonic scale, yet without statistical difference between them. However, at the 1-month follow-up, patients in group Clobetasol showed a greater percentage reduction in ODSS score compared to baseline by 50% (p = 0.02) and significantly lower average values (p = 0.03) than those in group Tacrolimus. Longitudinal intragroup analysis revealed significant improvements over time in both groups for ODSS, and only in the tacrolimus group for OHIP-14 and Beck scores. Both tested protocols were effective over a three-month follow-up. However, due to the lower cost of clobetasol propionate it can be considered the first-choice option. Tacrolimus in orabase formulation may be a promising alternative for refractory lesions that do not respond to topical steroids. Managing symptomatic OLP is challenging. Comparisons between tacrolimus and clobetasol propionate in orabase formulations have not yet been thoroughly explored.

The comparison of efficacy of Escitalopram and Bupropion in treatment of depression symptoms in patients with heart failure: randomized clinical trial

Objective: This study aims to compare the effects of two medicines, Escitalopram and Bupropion, on HF patients who have depression symptoms. Methods: This double-blind randomized clinical trial study was conducted on HF patients with depression symptoms at the Heart Failure Clinics affiliated with Babol University of Medical Sciences. In this study, 80 participants were examined for depression based on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). They were randomly allocated into 2 groups of 40 participants treated with Bupropion 75 mg and Escitalopram 5 mg. Following the intervention, the individuals were assessed in terms of their depression score at 4, 8, and 12-week intervals. Finally, the data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: In the examination of Beck and Hamilton scores in the two research groups during different follow-ups, a significant decrease was found over time (P<0.001 for both medicines). While the effectiveness of the two medicines was the same at different times (P>0.05 in all cases). Comparing the side effects between the two intervention groups, the orgasm disorder (P=0.018) and sexual dysfunction (P<0.001) were reported significantly more in the Escitalopram group than in the Bupropion group. Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that Escitalopram has the same efficacy as Bupropion in the treatment of depression symptoms in HF patients.

Pillar pain incidence, duration, and psychological correlations in WALANT. A prospective study of 170 patients

PurposeTo prospectively address our patients seeking carpal tunnel release (CTR) to evaluate the incidence, intensity, and duration of pillar pain (PP) and its correlation with catastrophic thinking, depression, and health anxiety.Methods: this is a prospective cohort study consisting of patients who underwent mini-open CTR under WALANT. Pillar pain was evaluated using the table test and was recorded as dichotomous variable and rated with a visual analogue scale (VAS). Patients with a positive result were evaluated on a monthly basis until the test yielded a negative result.To assess catastrophic thinking, health anxiety and depression levels, we employed the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) the Short Health Anxiety Inventory (SHAI), and the Beck scale respectively. ResultsThe study enrolled 170 patients who underwent CTR using WALANT technique. Among them, 84 patients (49 %) exhibited a positive table test. With exception of age and diabetes, both groups showed comparable demographic characteristics.The mean pain score for patients with a positive test was 3.5 ± 1.5, and the median duration of it was 3 months (interquartile range [IQR] 2–4). The median PCS score was 8 (IQR 2–14) in patients without PP, compared to 8 (IQR 4–11) in patients with PP. In the logistic regression model, the PCS variable had a crude odds ratio (OR) of 1 (95 % CI: 0.96–1.03) and an adjusted OR of 1 (95 % CI: 0.97–1.04). The SHAI score showed a crude OR of 0.97 (95 % CI: 0.93–1.01) and an adjusted OR of 0.97 (95 % CI: 0.92–1.01). The BECK score had a crude OR of 0.99 (95 % CI: 0.96–1.03) and an adjusted OR of 1.02 (95 % CI: 0.98–1.06). ConclusionPatients undergoing mini-open CTR have a risk of 49 % of experiencing PP, which typically registers a pain intensity of approximately 3 points and will last for a median of 3 months. The likelihood of experience it does not depend on catastrophic thinking, depression, and health anxiety. Type of study/level of evidencePrognostic II.

A Computing System for Complex Cases of Major Recurrent Depression Based on Latent Semantic Analysis: Relationship between Life Themes and Symptoms

The paper presents a computing procedure with the goal of suggesting applicable solutions to improve complex cases of major recurrent depression. The focus is on identifying the patients’ illness patterns and on finding solutions for alleviating problematic symptoms. The illness patterns synthesize the outcomes of the relationship between the patients’ life themes and symptoms. The testing of the effectiveness of illness improvement solutions was conducted by evaluating and comparing the Beck scores of patients after each psychotherapy session. In addition to latent semantic analysis used to identify semantic relationships between life themes and symptoms, the research also employed the correlation method to find life themes/symptoms that are experienced undistortedly and associations between life themes that amplify latent symptoms. The computing system was applied to eleven patients with severe forms of depression and their progress was monitored for six months. The results obtained following the application of the computing system demonstrated its ability to describe personalized illness patterns and to significantly improve, through its suggestions, the illness of all patients. These findings recommend the use of the computing system in severe cases of major recurrent depression.

The impact of male genital self-image on depression, anxiety and sexual functions

Aim This study aims to examine the relationship between male genital self-perception and sexual functioning and depression anxieties. Method The study included male patients who were referred to the andrology outpatient clinic between March 2022 and June 2022. Demographic data of the patients were recorded. Cigarette and alcohol consumption was also noted. The Male Genital Self Image Scale (MGSIS) questionnaire was used for the Genital Self Image(GSI) assessment, which consists of 7 questions. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), composed of 15 questions, was used to evaluate sexual function. STAI-I, STAI-II, and BECK scales were used for depression and anxiety. The penis size of the patients was measured in a flask and stretched condition, and the midpenile circumference was recorded. Patients were compared with respect to GSI, depression, anxiety, and sexual functioning. Results A total of 75 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 46.69 ± 11.32 (26–72), and the mean BMI was 27.82 ± 3.79 (22.46–40.40) kg/m2. A slightly positive correlation was found between the patients’ flask penis size and MGSIS-total scores (r = 0.260, p = .024) and IIEF-SF scores (r = 0.240, p = .038). There was a moderately positive correlation between the stretched penis size and IIEF-OS (r = 0.403, p < .001) and IIEF-SF (r = 0.354, p = .002). While the MGSIS-total score and the STAI-I and STAI-II scores had a moderate negative correlation, there was an advanced negative correlation between the MGSIS-total score and the BECK score. Conclusion Disruption of men’s genital self-perception is moderately related to their susceptibility to depression and anxiety. This situation affects the person’s sexual performance and causes orgasm problems to increase.

Depressive symptoms and coping patterns in a sample of Egyptian mothers of ADHD children

BackgroundAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered to be one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions found in children. The global prevalence in the age group 6–17 years falls between 2 and 18%. Studies have found that mothers of ADHD children are more prone to experience depression, anxiety, social isolation, stress, and self-blame.Aims and objectivesTo assess the prevalence of depression and its severity among mothers with children found to have ADHD compared to mothers of the control group, we also investigate the coping mechanisms employed by mothers with ADHD children and identify any potential correlation between coping strategies utilized by mothers in the case group and the severity of depression.Patients and methodsIn this cross-sectional study, we recruited 100 participants from the outpatient child psychiatry clinic at Ma’amoura Psychiatric Hospital in Alexandria, Egypt. Two participant groups were assembled: Group I (case) consisted of 50 mothers whose children had ADHD, and Group II (control) consisted of 50 mothers whose children did not have ADHD. Both groups underwent the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) inventory.ResultsA significant relationship was observed between the Beck Score and hyperactive and combined ADHD types; however, no significant correlation was found between the Beck Score and the inattentive ADHD type. Regarding the coping styles with stress, the current study’s results found that in (case group) turning to religion had the highest sub-scale mean, followed by seeking social support and emotional support, while the lowest sub-scale score mean was humor, followed by denial. By employing univariate logistic regression analysis to identify depression predictors in group I, the results showed that the increase in the score of less useful coping by 1 was a probable factor to increase the possibility of depression by OR = 1.438 (1.186–1.743). Combined and hyperactive ADHD types were found to increase the risk of depression by OR 6.706 (1.309–34.353).ConclusionDepressive complaints were more prevalent among mothers of children with ADHD compared to the control group. We found a statistically important relationship between Beck Depression Scores (depressive symptom severity) in mothers with ADHD children and having hyperactive or combined ADHD types in their children. We also found a statistically significant positive correlation between the severity of depression and some coping styles as turning to religion and seeking social support.

Exploring the relationship between disability status, depression, and quality of life in individuals with multiple sclerosis

IntroductionDepression and the presence of a disability emerge as noteworthy predictors of the quality of life (QoL) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). In this article, we explore the relationship between disability status, depression, and quality of life in individuals with multiple sclerosis. MethodsA total of 150 patients participated in this cross-sectional study. A Persian translation of the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 questionnaire was utilized to assess their health-related quality of life (QoL), while the patients' disability levels were measured using the Expanded Disability Status Scale. Additionally, we assessed patients' depression levels using the 21-item BDI-II scale. The questionnaire data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. ResultsA total of 150 MS patients participated in the study, with a mean age of 33.4 years (SD = 3.1). The majority were female (n = 71.2 %). The mean EDSS score was 3.7 (SD = 1.8). In the correlation analysis, we found that EDSS scores were not significantly correlated with mental QoL (r = -0.180, p = 0.109), but were significantly correlated with lower physical QoL (r = -0.393, p 0.001). Depression scores were significantly correlated with mental QoL (r = -0.776, P 0.001) and physical QoL (r = -0. 726, P 0.001). The results reveal that both EDSS and Beck scores significantly affect mental and physical health, explaining 62 % and 60 % of their variances, respectively. ConclusionOur findings indicate a significant relationship between physical quality of life and EDSS scores in MS patients. Higher EDSS scores consistently corresponded to more significant physical impact, as evidenced by higher impact ratings. Conversely, there was no clear association between EDSS scores and mental quality of life. Furthermore, increased depression levels were linked to reduced levels of both mental and physical well-being. These results emphasize the intricate interplay between the physical aspects of quality of life and their implications for the progression and severity of MS in patients.

Nano-curcumin effects on nicotine dependence, depression, anxiety and metabolic parameters in smokers: A randomized double-blind clinical study

BackgroundSmoking is clearly associated with metabolic profiles/abnormalities, psychological dysfunction, and symptoms of nicotine dependence. Nano-Curcumin (Nano-CUR) is a medicinal herb with antianxiety, antioxidant antidepressant‐like effects, and anti-inflammatory properties. This RCT aimed to determine the therapeutic effects of Nano-CUR in smokers on clinical symptoms and metabolic parameters. MethodsThis trial was conducted on 70 participants with cigarette smoking. Smokers in two arms received soft gel capsules Nano-CUR 80 mg/daily for 3 months (n = 35) and placebo (n = 35), respectively. Primary outcomes (Nicotine dependence syndrome scale, depression, and anxiety beck score), and secondary outcomes (glycemic, lipid, stress oxidative, and inflammation profiles) were analyzed before and 3-months after the intervention in smokers. ResultsNano-CUR supplementation significantly decreased nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, and C-reactive protein levels (P < 0.05), compared to the control. Furthermore, no significant effect change was shown in nicotine dependence syndrome, depression, anxiety, and other metabolic parameters (p > 0.05). ConclusionNano-CUR intake may have favorable effects on C-reactive protein, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide in subjects with cigarette smoking. More RCT are required to evaluate the effectiveness of Nano-CUR supplementations in smokers in order to reject or support these conclude.

Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Inflammatory and Cognitive Parameters in Middle-Aged Women with Overweight or Obesity.

Obesity has been linked to cognitive decline and adverse effects on brain health. Zinc (Zn) is a mineral with important metabolic functions that can modulate obesity-related neurological impairment. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of 12 weeks of Zn supplementation on the inflammatory profile, cognitive function, and mood of overweight or obese women through a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The study included 42 women aged between 40 and 60, randomly divided into two groups: Zn supplementation (30 mg/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. Data regarding sociodemographic, anthropometric, dietary, and physical activity were collected. Mini-mental state examination (MMSE), verbal fluency test, clock drawing test, and Stroop test were performed. Anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed using the Beck anxiety inventory and the BDI-II, respectively. Saliva samples were collected to evaluate IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, insulin, nitrite, and Zn levels. Of the 42 participants (mean age 49.58 ± 6.46 years), 32 were included in the study analyses. Changes in body weight and macronutrient consumption were not different between placebo and Zn supplementation groups. Cognitive scores on the MMSE and Stroop tests were higher in the Zn supplementation group than in the placebo group. Salivary levels of IL-1b and Zn increased in the Zn group compared to placebo. There was no significant change in the adjusted means of the BDI-II and BECK scores between the zinc vs. placebo groups. Twelve weeks of Zn supplementation was able to partially improve the cognitive scores assessed in overweight or obese women, regardless of weight loss. These findings suggest that Zn supplementation can be considered an adjunct strategy to enhance cognitive health in overweight or obese women.

Yoganidra to Alleviate Anxiety: An Interventional Study.

Anxiety and stress are challenging conditions that result in perturbation of the body's homeostasis. It disturbs one's physical and mental state of equilibrium. There are many ways to overcome anxiety and stress, however, the best among many remedies is yoganidra, as it achieves optimum functioning of not only our body but also our mind. Hence, the present study was planned to evaluate the impact of yoganidra practice on the anxiety levels of undergraduate students. This study aimed to evaluate physiological parameters like pulse rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, measure anxiety levels by the general anxiety disorder-7(GAD-7) inventory and Beck's anxiety questionnaire, conduct yoganidra sessions for all the students, and compare the effects of these training sessions on physiological parameters and anxiety scales. The present study was carried out in the department of physiology, R.V.M. Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Siddipet, and conducted on 125 students from first to final Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery who participated voluntarily and actively after satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All the members were assessed for physiological cardio-respiratory parameters followed by the GAD-7 scale and Beck's anxiety questionnaire pre- and post-yoganidra sessions. There was a significant difference in blood pressure before and after the session, whereas the pulse rate and respiratory rate reduction after the session were highly significant. There was a highly significant reduction in GAD-7 anxiety score, from 12±3.41 to 5.80±2.56 (p<0.0001); while for Beck's score, there was a highly significant reduction in anxiety score of 20.83±0.73 after giving yoganidra training as opposed to the earlier score of 23.75±1.86 (p<0.0001). Yoganidra provides ways to manage stress and anxiety and enhance mental wellness. It is supported by research evidence as a safe and effective method to reduce anxiety.

THE LINK BETWEEN CHOLECALCIFEROL INTAKE AND MANIFESTATIONS OF DEPRESSION AND MENSTRUAL ANOMALIES IN PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME

Diminished vitamin D levels have been linked to manifestations of premenstrual discomfort and mood disturbances. Our study delved into the connection between reduced cholecalciferol concentrations and depressive tendencies alongside diverse menstrual inconsistencies observed in individuals with PMS. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 250 female participants sourced from the Gynecology Outpatient Department at Liaquat University of Medical &amp; Health Sciences (LUMHS), Jamshoro Hyderabad, Pakistan. This study encompassed women aged 15 to 45, especially those in good health but with a documented history of depression and PMS. The Beck Depression Inventory was employed to clinically assess the incidence of depression, while the premenstrual syndrome scale was utilized to gauge PMS. The Chi-square test was applied for statistical analysis to juxtapose two quantitative parameters: vitamin D levels and Beck's scores, dysmenorrhea, menstrual flow, and age at menarche. Our analysis showed that 37.2% of the participants grappled with heavy menstrual flow, whereas 45.6% suffered from dysmenorrhea. Alarmingly, vitamin D was deficient in 61.2%, while an additional 34% displayed suboptimal levels. Regarding mental health indicators, 35.2% exhibited signs of mild depressive episodes during their premenstrual cycle, with a further 36.4% experiencing more acute depressive states. Among the vitamin D-deficient group, 18.8% were borderline for clinical depression, with 28.8% categorized under the severe depression bracket. Our statistical findings highlighted a pronounced linkage between Beck's depression indices and vitamin D concentrations, yielding a P-value of 0.001. In dysmenorrhea, 39.6% of the afflicted females had compromised vitamin D levels. Additionally, vitamin D deficiency was present in 36.8% of participants reporting intense menstrual flow. Notably, 9.6% of females who reached menarche at 12 exhibited reduced vitamin D levels, compared to a mere 0.8% with early menarche and satisfactory vitamin D metrics. There appears to be an inverse relationship between vitamin D concentrations and depressive symptoms, suggesting that optimal vitamin D levels could potentially ameliorate depressive manifestations.

Prevalence of oral complications in the course of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection under mechanical non-invasive ventilation

BackgroundThe management of oral health during severe symptoms of Covid-19 is still a challenge, especially in intensive care units under invasive/noninvasive ventilation in hospital. Understanding the cause-and-effect relationships may allow for individual adjustment of oral care recommendations during Covid-19 disease. The study’s objective was to assess Covid-19 patients’ oral health status under hospital treatment due to pulmonary adverse Covid-19 outcomes.Material and methodsCovid-19 patients (mean age 74.4 ± 15.4; n = 120, male n = 50/female n = 70) were admitted to hospital in the acute phase of Covid-19 between January and March 2022 who required oxygen therapy due to pneumonia, rapid respiratory failure, low saturation. Blood and radiological tests were taken according to National Health Fund guidelines. The condition of teeth (Decayed, Missing, Filled teeth as DMFT index), dental hygiene (Plaque Control Record as PCR index), periodontal status (probing depth PD, clinical attachment CAL, bleeding on probing BOP) and oral mucosa (BRUSHED and Beck scores) were examined.ResultsCharateristics of the teeth (dental caries 35.2%, DMFT Median 22), plaque retention (83.4%), advanced periodontitis (48.3%), xerostomia (74.2%), oral mucosa inflammation (80.8%), angular cheilitis (53.3%), hemorrhagic (21.7%) showed a high incidence of harmful oral conditions. BRUSHED model and Beck score indicated moderate oral dysfunction and need for oral care every 8 h. Spearman’s analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between pneumonia and neutrophile, interleukin-6 IL-6, C-reactive protein CRP (p = 0.01, p < 0.001, p < 0.001), negative to lymphocyte count (p < 0.001). Multiple and logistic regressions selected the following risk predictors for pneumonia as IL-6, CRP, obesity and for severe COVID-19 symptoms D-dimer level and a lack of targeted vaccination (p < 0.001). Among oral predictors, the PCR index and Beck score were significant for both outcomes (respectively p < 0.001, p < 0.012). Patients who received oxygen therapy with face masks had more often angular heilitis and debris (p = 0.025, p = 0.035).ConclusionsCOVID-19 hospitalised patients with severe symptoms crossing with poor oral health-related conditions. This may exacerbate a response for COVID infection, and play a role in cytokine storm. For Covid-19 management, to inhibit extraoral/intraoral complications, it is recommended to adjust oral hygiene procedures, including antibacterial, protective, moisturising agents after individual oral health assessment.

Cognitive profiles in severe post‐COVID 19 patients in a rehabilitation center

AbstractBackgroundAfter the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic, it has been described that many patients evolve with neurological alterations, including cognitive deficits.MethodAll severe post‐COVID patients admitted to hospitalization for rehabilitation between October 1, 2020 and July 30, 2021 were included. Those with central neurological pathology, altered state of consciousness, or psychiatric history were excluded. An abbreviated cognitive assessment was performed, including MoCa, CVLT, logical memory, forward and reverse digit span, IFS, TMT, Beck Depression Inventory.Result196 severe post‐COVID patients were included, of which 76 did not present exclusion criteria and were able to perform the complete cognitive evaluation. The mean age was 60.8 years, 65% male. The average schooling in years was 12. 67% showed poor performance in the initial screening test; 6.58% presented an amnesic profile; 7.89% a dysexecutive profile; 34.21% showed multidomain failures; 21% presented a performance within normality. The remaining patients presented isolated cognitive failures, without being able to characterize a type of profile. 5.26% had a Beck score compatible with depression.ConclusionIn our sample, 79% of the patients showed some type of cognitive alteration. We found a low percentage of patients with depression, contrary to what is described in the literature. We consider that the investigation of cognitive alterations and the possibility of defining a type of profile is extremely useful in order to be able to optimize all the rehabilitation work with the possibility of improving the results, social reinclusion and quality of life of patients.

Caregiver burden in parents of children with neurological impairement and its relation with depression

IntroductionCaregiving negatively affects the psychological and physical health of the caregivers, especially in parents of children with neurological impairement (NI).Furthermore, the behavior and demands of the patient make the caregivers encounter increased stress levels and negative thoughtsabout the future that may lead to depression in caregivers.ObjectivesTo assess the relationship between caregiver burden and symptoms of depression in parents of children with NI.MethodsA total of 33 caregivers of children with NI, participated in this cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study, carried out in Child Neurology Department of the University Hospital in Sfax (Tunisia), between February and April 2021.The Zarit-Caregiver-Burden-Scale (Zarit-CBS) and the Beck Depression Scale were administered.ResultsThe average age of the caregivers (27 mothers and 6 fathers) was 38,33 years ± 6,53 years. Among the parents, 81,81% didn’t exceed the secondary educational level and75,75% of them had an irregular occupation. The average age of the children (21 boys and 12 girls) was 7,58±4,29 years.Near to the half of them (51,51%) had intellectual disability.Over 54.54% of the children had a functional independence, while 21.21% required help in walking and 24.24% were unable to walk.The intervention was based on motor rehabilitation (57,57%), adequate equipment (24,24%), ergotherapy (45,45%) and speech therapy (60,6%).After the intervention, 63,63% of children had an improvement and 30,3% had a stationary state.The mean score of Zarit-CBS was 52,45±14,26. The caregiver burden was noted in 96,96%.The mean score of Beck was 9,33±5,48. The depression was noted in 78,78%.The total Zarit-CBS score had positive correlation with Beck scores (p=0.038).ConclusionsThere is a positive relationship between the caregiver burden and depression symptoms. Thus, effort should be made to relieve caregiver burden in parents of children with NI.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Climacteric symptoms, age, and sense of coherence are associated with sexual function scores in women after menopause.

Postmenopausal sexual function presupposes the integration of hormonal, neural, and vascular interactions and is subject to optimal crosstalk among psychological, interpersonal, cultural, and environmental factors. Sense of coherence (SOC) reflects a person's ability to cope with stressors and may influence the occurrence of menopausal symptoms and sexual dysfunction. To investigate the association of severity of climacteric symptoms, cardiometabolic risk factors, and SOC with sexual function in postmenopausal women. Overall 281 sexually active postmenopausal women without significant psychopathology or cardiovascular disease attending the Menopause Unit of Aretaieion Hospital were evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Greene Climacteric Scale, Beck Depression Scale, and Sense of Coherence Scale. Hormonal and biochemical parameters and cardiometabolic risk factors were evaluated. FSFI scores <26.5 were considered pathologic. Total and subdomain scores of sexual response were determined. Pathologic FSFI scores were found in 79.7% of the sample. Linear models of multivariable regression analysis showed that FSFI scores were associated with (1) Beck scores (b = -0.200; 95% CI, -0.472 to -0.073, P = .001), vasomotor symptom severity (b = -0.324; 95% CI, -0.985 to 0.051; P < .001), and age and (2) SOC (b = 0.150, 95% CI, 0.036-0.331; P = .008), vasomotor symptom severity (b = -0.361; 95% CI, -0.743 to 0.245; P < .001), and age. Both models were adjusted for menopausal age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, type of menopause, and menopausal hormone therapy intake. SOC was associated with Beck depression scores (β = -0.487, P < .001; Greene Climacteric Scale total scores, β= -0.199, P < .001). FSFI score <26.5 vs >26.5 was associated with SOC (odds ratio,0.982; 95% CI, 0.563 to 1.947; P = .006) and moderate to severe vasomotor symptom severity (odds ratio,2.476; 95% CI, 1.478 to 3.120; P = .009) independent of age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, menopausal hormone therapy intake, type of menopause, or Beck depression classification. The results indicate the importance of psychometric assessment of postmenopausal women when presenting with scores of low sexual function. The severity of vasomotor symptoms should also be addressed in any case. This is the first study investigating the relationship between SOC and sexuality in menopause in a carefully selected homogenous population. Limitations included the cross-sectional design and the fact that sexual distress was not assessed. Pathologic FSFI scores were highly prevalent in this sample of postmenopausal women. FSFI is associated positively with age and severity of vasomotor symptoms and negatively with SOC.

Predictive Factors of Response to Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (Mbct) for Patients with Depressive Symptoms: The Machine Learning’s Point of View

While there is abundant literature on the benefits of Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBI), data about factors associated with their Efficiency are scarce. Our study attempts to determine the moderators of efficacy and adherence in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) with a machine learning analysis. Seventy-six psychiatric outpatients at “university hospital mental health service” had a prescription for MBCT from their referring psychiatrist. They suffer from various psychiatric illnesses with depressive symptoms. They completed a battery of clinical, mindfulness, and psychological functioning self-report questionnaires before and after the MBCT intervention of 8 sessions. Changes (after minus before) in scores were used for efficacy. Scores before MBCT were used to study the adherent profile (8 sessions of MBCT) versus non-adherent patients (stopping MBCT before the eight sessions). For efficacy and adherence profiles, machine learning analysis based on the support vector machine (SMV) method was applied to complement classical statistical analyses. Results: For efficacy factors, the SVM analysis finds a two-dimensional profile of patients. The patients for whom MBCT is most effective are patients with a high Beck score (&gt;25) and high trait mindfulness (FFMQ &gt;90). The percentage of misclassified validation examples is 24.6 (LOO = 75.4). The model's sensitivity is 79.3%, and the specificity is 71.9%. For adherence factors, a three-dimensional model is found. The patients who perform the 8 sessions of the MBCT have a profile with high or low trait mindfulness, high or low bodily dissociation, and low self-compassion. The percentage of misclassified validation examples is 37.3 (LOO = 62.7). The model's sensitivity is 48.4%, and the specificity is 71.9%. These results provide preliminary evidence that the predictive power of machine learning may allow the designing of standard patient profiles, which can contribute to 3 more personalized care for patients with symptoms of depression and anxiety. Also, including more psychoeducation in MBCT programs can maximize clinical benefits and adherence to this therapy. However, further studies are needed to explore this topic in more detail.

Effect of Laser-Assisted Hair Removal (LAHR) on the Quality of Life and Depression in Hirsute Females: A Single-Arm Clinical Trial.

Introduction: Hirsutism, mainly due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), causes stress, anxiety, and depression in females. Laser-assisted hair removal (LAHR) is currently accepted as a good treatment option for hirsutism. The goal of the current study was to ascertain how LAHR affected the degree of hirsutism, quality of life, and depression in hirsute females. Methods: A single-arm before/after clinical trial was designed and performed in the Razi hospital Laser Clinic over a 15-month period. All hirsute females visiting the Razi hospital laser clinic were enrolled and received three sessions of LAHR every 4-6 weeks if they were interested and signed an informed consent form. Before the commencement of LAHR and six to eight weeks after the last session, the Ferriman-Gallwey score (hirsutism severity), Beck score (depression index) and DLQI score (quality of life index) were calculated and stored. Results: There were 80 subjects in all. The mean ± SD of the Ferriman-Gallwey score was reduced from 7.05 ± 2.27 to 4.91 ± 2.41, P < 0.001. The mean ± SD of the Beck depression score was reduced from 13.3 ± 8.7 to 10.2 ± 8.4, P < 0.001, and the mean ± SD of the DLQI score decreased from 5.6 ± 5.2 to 3.5 ± 2.3, P < 0.001. No significant complications were reported. Conclusion: LAHR can improve hirsutism-related depression and degradation of quality of life, as well as hirsutism physical signs.

Structural and functional biomarkers of the effect of navigational repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in patients with drug-resistant depression

The use of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in patients with a drug-resistant depressive episode is associated with a high variability of its effect, which determines the relevance of the search for predictive biomarkers of the effect.Objective: to search for neuroimaging biomarkers of the clinical effectiveness of navigational rTMS in patients with a drug-resistant depressive episode.Patients and methods. The study included 30 patients with a drug resistant depressive episode who underwent 20 sessions of navigational highfrequency rTMS of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of the left hemisphere. We performed an analysis of correlations between functional connectivity and gray matter volume (GMV) in given areas (before rTMS) with the degree of reduction in the Beck score for assessment of depression and the presence of a clinically significant response to therapy.Results and discussion. A relationship was shown between the clinical effect and low values of functional connectivity between the subgenual cingulated cortex and DLPFC of the right hemisphere. A relationship was found between a decrease in the severity of symptoms of depression and the volume of GMV in the insula, inferior frontal gyrus, temporal pole, superior temporal gyrus, and median cingulate cortex of the left hemisphere, as well as a relationship between the presence of a significant response to therapy and the volume of GMV in the insula, inferior frontal gyrus, temporal pole and superior temporal gyrus on the left.Conclusion. The obtained results may become a prerequisite for the development of individual predictive biomarkers of the effectiveness of rTMS in patients with a resistant depressive episode.

Sleep quality, latency, and sleepiness are positively correlated with depression symptoms of Brazilians facing the pandemic-associated stressors of COVID-19.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus has implicated on mental health and psychopathological sequelae through viral infection. Suggestively, the pandemic-associated stressors (e.g., isolation, fear of illness, inadequate information and supply) may affect the sleep and feedback the depression symptoms, ultimately decreasing the immune system and offering further opportunities for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus infection. Nevertheless, this association still requires investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to correlate the depression symptoms with sleep variables from subjects facing the restrictions of the ongoing pandemic in Brazil.One hundred sixty-two volunteers (age = 31 ± 13 years; body mass = 69.8 ± 14.9 kg; height = 168 ± 9 cm) answered the Beck Depression Inventory, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index/Epworth Sleepiness Scale for determination of depression symptoms and sleep variables, respectively.Significant and positive correlations were obtained between Beck score and sleep quality (r = 0.53; P = .000), sleep latency (r = 0.29; P = .000), and sleepiness (r = 0.22; P = .003), but not with sleep time (r = –0.10; P = .175).This report concluded that Brazilians struggling with pandemic-associated stressors with high depression symptoms may have negative impacts on sleep, mainly regarding its quality, latency, and sleepiness.

Investigating the effect of magnesium supplement in patients with major depressive disorder under selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment.

Major depression disorder (MDD) is a mental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This disease has negative impacts on quality of life and psychological-related functions. This is a multifactorial disorder; both genetic background and environmental factors have their role. Antidepressants are prescribed as the first line of treatment for patients with depressive disorders. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants are used to treat MDD and anxiety; however, some patients do not respond to them. Regarding that, magnesium plays a major role in mood regulation; therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of magnesium supplement in patients with MDD and under an SSRI treatment regimen. In this randomized, double-blind controlled trial, 60 patients with major depressive disorders based on the DSM-V diagnosis referred to Golestan Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, were included. The eligible patients were categorized randomly into two thirty-people groups receiving magnesium (intervention) and placebo (control) along with SSRI for 6 weeks. To evaluate the depression status, the Beck II test was applied. Subjects were examined before and after the intervention. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). The mean Beck scores at the beginning of the study and the second week after the intervention were not different between the two groups (P = 0.97, P = 0.56), whereas the mean Beck scores were lower in the intervention group than in the control group in the fourth and sixth weeks after the intervention (P = 0.02 and P = 0.001, respectively). Administration of Mg supplement for at least 6 weeks might improve depression symptoms. It can also be considered as a potential adjunct treatment option for MDD patients who are under SSRI treatment.