Journal of affective disorders
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Immune dysfunction associated with a disease often has a molecular basis. A novel group of molecules known as microRNAs (miRNAs) have been associated with suppression of translational processes involved in cellular development and proliferation, protein secretion, apoptosis, immune function and inflammatory processes. MicroRNAs may be implicated in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME), where immune function is impaired. The objective of this study was to determine the association between miRNAs in cytotoxic cells and CFS/ME. ⋯ Collectively these miRNAs have been associated with apoptosis, cell cycle, development and immune function. Changes in miRNAs in cytotoxic cells may reduce the functional capacity of these cells and disrupt effective cytotoxic activity along with other immune functions in CFS/ME patients.
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Primary care is the most promising venue for the management of late-life depression in China. The current study was designed to establish the prevalence of major depressive disorder among older adults in primary care, and to examine the correlates, and the natural course of late-life depression over a year. ⋯ In an urban Chinese primary care setting, late-life depression was found to be a common condition. Few patients with MDD received treatment for their condition, and the majority remained depressed over the following year.
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Despite the great burden of depression on sufferers and society, there is a lack of reliable information regarding the full range of psychosocial difficulties associated with depression and their related variables. This systematic review aimed to demonstrate the utility of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in describing the psychosocial difficulties that shape the lived experience of persons with depression. ⋯ The present systematic review provides information on the psychosocial difficulties that depressive patients face in their daily lives. Future studies on depression should include outcome instruments that cover these relevant areas in order to comprehensively describe psychosocial functioning.