Apathy in patients with Alzheimer's disease is a cost-driving factor.

Background: Apathy is the most frequent neuropsychiatric symptom in patients with dementia of the Alzheimer's type (DAT). We analyzed the influence of apathy on the resource use of DAT patients and their caregivers.

Methods: Included were baseline data of 107 DAT patients from a randomized clinical trial on apathy treatment.

Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor in Major Depressive Disorder: A Multilevel Pilot Study.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a controversially discussed inflammatory marker in major depressive disorder (MDD). While some studies show an association of high MIF protein levels with depression, animal models have yielded conflicting results. Thus, it remains elusive as to whether MIF plays an anti- or pro-depressive role.

Effects of Hippocampal Sparing Radiotherapy on Brain Microstructure-A Diffusion Tensor Imaging Analysis.

Hippocampal-sparing radiotherapy (HSR) is a promising approach to alleviate cognitive side effects following cranial radiotherapy. Microstructural brain changes after irradiation have been demonstrated using Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI). However, evidence is conflicting for certain parameters and anatomic structures.

Male depression syndrome is characterized by pronounced Cluster B personality traits.

Background: Male depression syndrome (Male-DS) refers to alternative depression symptoms related to the male sex, such as externalizing behaviors, emotional suppression, substance misuse, and risk-seeking. Although these symptoms contribute to gender bias in the diagnosis of depression, Male-DS can be found in both sexes. In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed associations between Male-DS and clinical personality accentuations.

mRNA Expression of Encoding Acid Sphingomyelinase Decreases upon Antidepressant Treatment.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a severe psychiatric condition with key symptoms of low mood and lack of motivation, joy, and pleasure. Recently, the acid sphingomyelinase (ASM)/ceramide system has been implicated in the pathogenesis of MDD. ASM is a lysosomal glycoprotein that catalyzes the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin, an abundant component of membranes, into the bioactive sphingolipid ceramide, which impacts signaling pathways.