Plasma nitrate levels and flow-mediated vasodilation in untreated major depression.

Objective: Findings from several studies have revealed that major depression is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The physiopathologic mechanisms of this association remain unclear, although recently, it has been hypothesized that a decreased production of nitric oxide could be a potential contributor to vascular dysfunction in depressive patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate nitric oxide production and vascular endothelial function in treatment-naive young healthy adults with a first episode of major depression.

[Factor analysis and validation of a Spanish version of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale in Colombia].

Introduction: A validation study was directed toward an evaluation of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) in a Spanish-language version in Colombia. The BPRS is important because it is one of the most widely used scales in clinical and research settings in mental health.

Methods: The BPRS was administered to 149 psychiatric impatients and the scores evaluated for factorial structure and internal consistency.