OTHERS_CITABLE The Effect of Electrical Fields From High-voltage Transmission Line on Cognitive, Biological, and Anatomical Changes in Male Rhesus macaque Monkeys Using MRI: A Case Report Study Introduction: Living near high-voltage power lines and exposure to high-frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs) is a potentially serious hazard to animal and human health. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of high-frequency EMFs from simulated high-voltage electric towers on cognitive, anatomical, and biological changes in the male macaque. Methods: In this study, two Rhesus macaque were recruited, one experimental and one control. The experimental subject was exposed to EMFs from 3 kV/m simulated electric towers with a specific protocol and the control subject was tested without irradiation (4h per day, for 30 days). All required tests were performed before and after the intervention on experimental and control monkeys. The anatomical alternation of the prefrontal area (PFA) was measured by MRI images. All tests were performed on irradiated and control animals before and after the intervention and the results were compared between irradiated and control animals. Results: The results of the present study indicated increased white blood cell counts after high-frequency EMFs irradiation. Also, the red blood cell counts showed a decreasing trend after irradiation. The plasma adrenaline level increased after irradiation. Besides, the blood glucose levels increased after irradiation. The PFA was different before and after the irradiation. Moreover, some behavioral disorders, such as fatigue, drowsiness, anorexia, and insomnia were observed after irradiation. Conclusion: The results of biological tests and MRI showed an elevated risk of immunodeficiency disorders, weakness, and behavioral disorders. People who live or work near high-voltage electric towers with high-frequency EMFs are warned. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1854-en.pdf 2022-07-24 433 442 10.32598/bcn.2021.1340.3 MRI Rhesus macaque Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) High-voltage transmission line Adrenaline hormone Hamed Aliyari hamedaliyari@gmail.com 1 Department of Psychology, Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States. AUTHOR Hedayat Sahraei 2 Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9235-0013 Sahar Gholabi sgolabister@gmail.com 3 Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran. AUTHOR Mohammad Bagher Menhaj 4 Department of Electrical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9470-5532 Masoomeh Kazemi hamedaliyari@chmail.ir 5 Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR Seyed Hossein Hosseinian hosseinian@aut.ac.ir 6 Department of Electrical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR
OTHERS_CITABLE Neuroprotective Effects of Berberine Hydrochloride on Methamphetamine-induced Cognitive Dysfunction: Immunohistochemical and Behavioral Studies in Rats Introduction: Methamphetamine (MA) as an addictive psychostimulant drug affects the central nervous system. The current research aimed to evaluate the impact of berberine hydrochloride on improving cognitive function and neuroprotective effects in rats addicted to MA. Methods: In this study, 27 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three groups, including control, MA addiction, and MA addiction with berberine hydrochloride (100 mg/kg/d) orally during the three weeks of withdrawal. Two groups received self-administered inhaled MA for two weeks (up to 10 mg/kg). Following the experimental procedures, a Morris water maze (MWM) and shuttle box were used to assess memory, and hippocampal sections from the animals were examined for caspase-3, Ki-67, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. Results: The obtained results from the Morris water maze (MWM) showed that berberine hydrochloride decreases (P<0.01) the distance moved and the time spent to reach the hidden platform in the four-day learning trails phase and significant differences were observed in the distance moved, spent time, and frequency of motion in target quadrant on probe test day between groups. Berberine hydrochloride also reduced the latency of animals entering the dark chamber in the treated group compared to the control group (P<0.05). A significant decrease in activation of caspases-3, higher percentages of Ki-67 expression, and an increase in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression of cells was observed in the addicted group compared to the berberine-treated and control groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Administration of berberine hydrochloride for 3 weeks improves cognitive function in MA addiction and it has potential neuroprotective efficacy. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1758-en.pdf 2022-07-24 443 454 10.32598/bcn.2021.1444.2 Methamphetamine (MA) Berberine hydrochloride Cognitive function Neuroprotective effects Rat Leila Rezaeian rezaeianl@gmail.com 1 Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran. AUTHOR Mehdi Khaksari khaksari417@gmail.com 2 Addiction Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1514-9003 Raheleh Rafaiee rahele_rafaie@yahoo.com 3 Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2796-5868 Hamid Kalalian Moghaddam h.kalalian@shmu.ac.ir 4 Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8342-919X
OTHERS_CITABLE Direct and Indirect Measures of Attention Indicating a Bias Toward Cues in Methamphetamine Users Introduction: This study aims to investigate the attentional bias toward drug-related stimuli along with subjective craving after encountering such stimuli in methamphetamine users. Studies of cue reactivity have confirmed a bias in attention and gaze toward drug-related stimuli for most substances; however, methamphetamine drugs are less studied through a direct measure, such as eye tracking. Methods: A total of 30 male subjects in the case group (methamphetamine users) and 36 subjects in the control group (no prior drug use) participated in this study. The participant’s eye movement data were collected while they were viewing pairs of drug-related and non-drug images in a dot-probe paradigm. Craving was assessed via a self-report questionnaire on a scale of 0 to 10 before and after the psychophysical task. Results: The analysis of eye-movement data showed a meaningful gaze bias toward cue images (drug-related) in the case group. Additionally, the gaze duration on cue images was significantly higher in the case group, in contrast to the control group. The same effect was observed in analyzing the dot-probe task; that is, the mean reaction time to a probe that replaced a cue image was significantly lower. The mean of the first-fixation measure in the control group was not significantly higher than chance; however, the percentage of the first-fixation on cue images in the drug users was meaningfully biased. Reported craving was significantly greater after performing the task compared to before. Conclusion: Our results indicated an attentional bias toward drug-related cues in methamphetamine users as well as subjective craving after encountering such cues. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1365-en.pdf 2022-07-24 455 464 10.32598/bcn.12.6.1589.1 Attentional bias Methamphetamine Craving Substance addiction Eye movement Measurements Seyed Davood Mirtorabi dmirtorabi@gmail.com 1 Department of Neurosciences and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR Sharif Saleki sharif.saleki@gmail.com 2 Brain and Behavior Studies Laboratory, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0275-5277 Mohammad Sadegh Rahmanian rahmanian@gmail.com 3 Legal Medicine Research Center, Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6245-7186 Hadi Hadizadeh hadi.sfu@gmail.com 4 Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Quchan University of Technology, Quchan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2018-0523 Reza Rostami rezaros@gmail.com 5 Department of Psychology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9318-108X Ali Yoonessi a_yoonessi@tums.ac.ir 6 Department of Neurosciences and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0634-4926
OTHERS_CITABLE Effects of Satureja Bachtiarica Essential Oil in Preventing Seizure in Pentylenetetrazol-Kindled Mice Introduction: Epilepsy is a group of chronic neurological disorders characterized by seizures. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of Satureja bachtiarica essential oil in preventing epilepsy. Methods: In this experimental study, 50 mice were randomly assigned to five groups of 10 each. The control group received normal saline plus tween-80 and after 30 min pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). Groups 2 and 3 were treated first with S. bachtiarica essential oil at 50 and 100 mg/kg , respectively and then after 30 min received PTZ. Group 4 received diazepam and 30 min later PTZ. Group 5 received flumazenil and 30 min later PTZ. After the last injection of PTZ, the time of seizure onset, seizure severity and score, the completion time of each seizure (attack episode), and mortality rate in different groups were recorded and compared. Results: The administration of S. bachtiarica essential oil at 50 and 100 mg/kg to PTZ-treated mice caused a significant increase in latency to the first seizure and survival of mice, as well as a significant decrease in the frequency of the head and upper limbs seizure, total body seizures, tonic seizures, and jumping. S. bachtiarica essential oil at 100 mg/kg caused a significant decrease in the head tic frequency. The administration of flumazenil significantly inhibited S. bachtiarica essential oil-induced effects and increased the head and upper limbs seizures, tonic seizures, and jumping. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that S. bachtiarica essential oil could prevent PTZ-induced seizure and these findings authenticate the traditional claims about the use of S. bachtiarica in treating epilepsy. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1399-en.pdf 2022-07-24 465 476 10.32598/bcn.2021.1665.1 Satureja bachtiarica epilepsy GABAergic activity PTZ-kindled Zahra Rabiei zahrarabiei@ymail.com 1 Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0129-3581 Manouchehr Shirchi Manouchehr@yahoo.com 2 Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran. AUTHOR Mahmoud Rafieian-Kopaei rafeian@yahoo.com 3 Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3190-7863 Samira Asgharzade asgharzade1364@yahoo.com 4 Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran. AUTHOR
OTHERS_CITABLE Psychometric Evaluation of Self-assessment Persian Version of the Alzheimer Questionnaire (AQ) Introduction: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a primary disorder intensified by aging. Rapid diagnosis of MCI can prevent its progression towards the development of dementia. Thus, the present study was conducted to evaluate the psychometric features of the self-assessment Persian version of the Alzheimer questionnaire (AQ) in the elderly to detect MCI. Methods: First, the AQ was translated into the Persian language; then, its content validity was evaluated by the content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR) method, and face validity was determined by two checklists for expert panel and the elderly. The convergent validity of the self-assessment AQ with the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) was assessed using the Pearson correlation. The test-retest and internal consistency reliability were evaluated using intra-class correlation (ICC) and Kuder-Richardson coefficients, respectively. Moreover, the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the optimal cut-off point of self-assessment AQ. Among 148 older people who took part in this study, 93 met our inclusion criteria (aged 60 years old or older, had reading and writing skills, and were able to speak and communicate). Results: A translated version of the questionnaire was named “M-check.” The developed test showed good content and face validity. Statistically significant correlations were found between M-check and MoCA (r=-0.83, P<0.05). The Kuder–Richardson and ICC coefficients were obtained as 0.84 and 0.92, respectively. Area under the curve presented satisfactory values (Area under curve [AUC]=0.852, sensitivity=0.62, specificity=0.94). Conclusion: The M-check can be used as a valid and reliable instrument for assessing cognitive state and screening MCI in older adults. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1663-en.pdf 2018-03-15 477 488 10.32598/bcn.2021.2238.1 Aging Cognitive dysfunction Self-assessment Psychometrics Persian Mahsa Roozrokh Arshadi Montazer mahsaroozrokh@yahoo.com 1 Department of Health Information Health Management, School of Management & Information Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4632-4361 Roohollah Zahediannasab roohollaz1991@yahoo.com 2 Neuroscience Laboratory (Brain, Cognition, and Behavior), Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1116-568X Mohammad Nami torabinami@sums.ac.ir 3 Neuroscience Laboratory (Brain, Cognition, and Behavior), Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1410-5340 Mahshid Tahamtan mahshidtahamtan@yahoo.com 4 Neuroscience Laboratory (Brain, Cognition, and Behavior), Department of Neuroscience, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6299-6902 Roxana Sharifian sharifianr@sums.ac.ir 5 Department of Health Information Health Management, School of Management & Information Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6593-8302 Mahdi Nasiri nasiri_m@sums.ac.ir 6 Health Human Resources Research Center, School of Health Management & Information Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. AUTHOR
OTHERS_CITABLE Comparing Autobiographical Brand Images and Neutral Images Regarding False Memory Formation Introduction: Consumers’ prior experiences form an episodic memory that largely influences their decision-making process. This episodic memory is mainly linked to cognitive and emotional perception and we know that brand image influences our cognitive and emotional perception. Nevertheless, it has not been well described how autobiographical memories of brand images differ from other types of images. Methods: In this study, we hypothesized that brand pictures have a higher chance to create false memories as compared to neutral ones. Results: We investigated this hypothesis using the Deese–Roediger–McDermott paradigm with lists of brand pictures from the local market and associated neutral images from the international affective picture system. Thirty graduate students were exposed to image stimuli, followed by a distractor task and a recognition task. After the normality test, reaction times (RT), and false recognition rate of brands and neutral images were statistically compared using a pairwise t-test. Conclusion: The results showed a significant decrease in reaction time (RT) and an increase in the false recognition rate of brand pictures compared to neutral images. Interestingly, the effect of gender on the creation of false memory by autobiographical brand images was not significant. We hope these findings can pave the way for a better understanding of the false memory mechanism. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1932-en.pdf 2022-07-24 489 500 10.32598/bcn.2021.2275.2 Brand autobiographical memory False memory Deese-Roediger-McDermott paradigm (DRM) Mohsen Shabani mohsen.sh740@yahoo.com 1 Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University GC, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8253-5727 Javad Salehi javadsalehi@znu.ac.ir 2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3676-1114 Reza Khosrowabadi 3 Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University GC, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6282-9389
OTHERS_CITABLE Ameliorating Effect of Standardized Extract From Textured Soy Protein (Glycine max L.) on Memory Deficit and Learning Insufficiency in Scopolamine-induced Amnesia Introduction: Textured soy protein (TSP) and nuts are two processed forms of soybean (Glycine max L.) that are widely consumed for nutritional purposes in Iran. Recently, we have reported the antioxidant and anticholinesterase effects of raw soybean (RS) attributed to isoflavones, such as genistein. In this work, we aimed to compare in vitro antioxidant and anticholinesterase effects of TSP, nuts, and RS to select the most effective one for learning capacity and spatial memory studies. Methods: Genistein content was determined using high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC), while diphenylpicrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were used to study antioxidant evaluation and Ellman’s colorimetric method was used to measure anticholinesterase. TSP extract (TSPE) was administered to male rats (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [i.p] for 7 days) before scopolamine injection (1 mg/kg). Learning capacity and spatial memory were evaluated using passive avoidance test (PAT) and Morris water maze (MWM) methods compared to physostigmine and piracetam. Results: The greatest antioxidant and anticholinesterase effect was observed for TSPE, which significantly prolonged initially latency in PTA (P<0.05) and improved all indicators in the MWM test at 200 mg/kg. Conclusion: The memory-improving effect of TSPE may be due to its antioxidant and anticholinesterase effect as well as neuroprotective effects of its isoflavones. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1729-en.pdf 2022-07-24 501 510 10.32598/bcn.2021.2446.1 Alzheimer’s disease Dementia Textured soy protein Morris water maze Antioxidant Scopolamine Ali Mandegary Alimandegary@yahoo.com 1 Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1065-9349 Fariba Sharififar f.sharififar@kmu.ac.ir 2 Herbal and Traditional Medicines Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1792-3760 Vahid Sheibani vsheibani2@yahoo.com 3 Neuroscience Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4321-6103 Naghmeh Nasehi Naghme.nasehi@gmail.com 4 Herbal and Traditional Medicines Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR Amir Asadi Asadi_phyto87@yahoo.com 5 Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR Mansour Mirtadzadini mirtdazadini@yahoo.com 6 Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR Navid Hassanabadi navidandreas@gmail.com 7 School of Veterinary, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. AUTHOR
OTHERS_CITABLE Psychometric Properties of the Persian Word Pairs Task to Evaluate Declarative Memory Introduction: According to the declarative/procedural (DP) model, the semantic aspect of language depends on the brain structures responsible for declarative memory. The word pairs task is a common tool to evaluate declarative memory. The current study aimed to design a valid and reliable task to evaluate declarative memory in Persian-speaking children at the learning and retention stages and investigate its relationship with the semantic aspect of language. Methods: A panel of experts agreed on the content validity of the proposed task. The reliability of the task was determined using internal consistency and test-retest reliability. A total of 31 typically developing children aged 7-9 years participated in this study. Results: The content validity of all the 42-word pairs was calculated as one. The test-retest reliability showed a correlation coefficient of 0.825 (P<0.001). The task showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha 0.880). The results of correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between declarative memory and semantic aspect. However, the regression analysis showed that the retention stage can explain 24.2% of the variations in the semantic aspect. Conclusion: It seems that the word pairs task has good validity and reliability to evaluate declarative memory. The task applied to evaluate the semantic aspect can be one of the potential causes of the lack of a relationship between the semantic aspect and declarative memory. The participants’ scores in the retention stage can be predicted concerning their performance at the semantic aspect. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1794-en.pdf 2022-07-24 511 518 10.32598/bcn.2021.2585.1 Declarative memory Word pairs task Semantic Content validity Maryam Malekian m.malekian6789@yahoo.com 1 Department of Speech Therapy, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR Yalda Kazemi y.kazemi@hotmail.com 2 Department of Speech Therapy, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9829-7046 Talieh Zarifian t.zarifian@yahoo.com 3 Department of Speech Therapy, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6067-829X
OTHERS_CITABLE Effect of Short-time Exposure of Local Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields on Sleepiness in Male Rats Introduction: Lack of high-quality sleep causes severe side effects like anxiety and changes in plasma concentration of oxalate. The current study investigated the impact of local extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) on inducing sleep (sleepiness) and anxiety in male rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 40 male rats were divided into four groups (n=10 for each group). The ELF-MF exposure (0, 10, and 18 Hz) was applied with an intensity of 200µT for three days (10 min/d). The sham-treated animal did not receive ELF-MF. Serum levels of oxalic acid (OA) and sleepiness were measured before and after the last exposure to ELF-MF or sham. Anxiety, sleepiness, and OA were measured using the elevated plus maze, open-field test (OFT), and ELISA test. Results: A comparison of oxalate levels before and after exposure to ELF-MF revealed that ELF-MF (10 Hz) decreased the serum level of oxalate (P<0.05). Comparing open/closed arm entry (in an elevated plus maze) between before and after exposure to ELF-MF revealed significant differences. Also, frequency, velocity, and distance moved were decreased in the open-field test. Conclusion: Results of the present study demonstrated that ELF-MF with short-time exposure may modulate the metabolism of OA and may modulate anxiety-like behavior or kind of induction of sleepiness in male rats. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1805-en.pdf 2022-07-24 519 530 10.32598/bcn.2022.2610.1 Magnetic field Extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) Oxalic acid Anxiety Sleepiness Elnaz Azizi 1 Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1155-8232 Fatemeh Ayoobi 2 Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. AUTHOR Ali Shamsizadeh 3 Physiology-Pharmacology Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8329-9156 Amir Moghadam-Ahmadi 4 Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2756-1265 Seyed Ali Shafiei sashafiei@muq.ac.ir 5 Neuroscience Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3330-0002 Alireza Khoshdel 6 Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2148-4951 Mohammad Reza Mirzaei 7 Molecular Medicine Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9799-7377
OTHERS_CITABLE Brain Functional Connectivity Changes During Learning of Time Discrimination Introduction: The human brain is a complex system consisting of connected nerve cells that adapt to and learn from the environment by changing its regional activities. The synchrony between these regional activities is called functional network changes during life and results in the learning of new skills. Time perception and interval discrimination are among the most necessary skills for the human being to perceive motions, coordinate motor functions, speak, and perform many cognitive functions. Despite its importance, the underlying mechanism of changes in brain functional connectivity patterns during learning time intervals still need to be well understood. Methods: This study aimed to show how electroencephalography (EEG) functional connectivity changes are associated with learning temporal intervals. In this regard, 12 healthy volunteers were trained with an auditory time-interval discrimination task over six days while their brain activities were recorded via EEG signals during the first and the last sessions. Then, changes in regional phase synchronization were calculated using the weighted/phase lag index (WPLI) approach, the most effective EEG functional connections at the temporal and prefrontal regions, and in the theta and beta bands frequency. In addition, the WPLI reported more accurate values. Results: The results showed that learning interval discrimination significantly changed functional connectivity in the prefrontal and temporal regions. Conclusion: These findings could shed light on a better understanding of the brain mechanism involved in time perception. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-2403-en.pdf 2022-07-24 531 550 10.32598/bcn.2022.3963.1 Electroencephalography (EEG) Functional connectivity Time perception Interval discrimination Phase lag index Mahdi Hoodgar mehdi.hoodgar@srbiu.ac.ir 1 Department of Computer Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2913-7097 Reza Khosrowabadi r_khosroabadi@sbu.ac.ir 2 Department of Computer Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6282-9389 Keivan Navi navi@sbu.ac.ir 3 Department of Computer Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5586-7766 Ebrahim Mahdipour mehdipour_msc@yahoo.com 4 Department of Computer Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3746-7678
OTHERS_CITABLE Brain Structural Correlates of Intelligence in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Individuals Introduction: Neuroimaging evidence has shown the relationship of intelligence with several structural brain properties in normal individuals. However, this relationship with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) needs to be investigated. Methods: We estimated grey matter (GM) density of the brain using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan on 56 ADHD individuals, including 30 combined individuals (Mean±SD age: 10.44±2.41, intelligence quotient: [IQ]=112.13±13.15, male, 24 right hands) and 26 inattentive individuals (mean age =11.39±2.1, IQ=107.44±13.98, male, 28 right hands) as well as 30 IQ matched healthy control group (mean age=11.08±2.15, IQ=115±13.56, male, 23 right hands). Results: In this study, two statistical approaches were used. In the first approach, region-based as well as the whole association patterns between full-scale IQ and GM were computed and compared between groups. The second approach was to examine the differential pattern of GM density without considering IQ in three groups. Conclusion: Results showed significant differences between the ADHD group and the control. This finding could indicate that intelligence is not purely based on the density of GM in certain brain regions; it is a dynamic phenomenon and drastically changes neurodevelopmental disorders. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1560-en.pdf 2022-07-24 551 572 10.32598/bcn.2021.2244.1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Magnetic Resonance Imaging Intelligence Grey matter density Farnaz Faridi farnaz1358@gmail.com 1 Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2072-2716 Ashkan Alvand 2 Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2809-0613 Reza Khosrowabadi r_khosroabadi@sbu.ac.ir 3 Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6282-9389
OTHERS_CITABLE Resting-State Electroencephalogram (EEG) Coherence Over Frontal Regions in Paranormal Beliefs Introduction: Paranormal beliefs are defined as the belief in extrasensory perception, precognition, witchcraft, and telekinesis, magical thinking, psychokinesis, superstitions. Previous studies corroborate that executive brain functions underpin paranormal beliefs. To test this hypotheses, neurophysiological studies of brain activity are required.  Methods: A sample of 20 students (10 girls, Mean±SD age: 22.50±4.07 years) were included in the current study. The absolute power of resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) was analyzed in intra-hemispheric and inter-hemispheric coherence with eyes open. The paranormal beliefs were determined based on the total score of the revised paranormal belief scale (RPBS). Results: The results of this study demonstrated a significant negative relationship between paranormal beliefs and resting-state EEG in alpha band activity in the frontal lobe (left hemisphere), EEG coherence of alpha and β1, β2, and gamma band activities in the frontal lobe (right hemisphere) and coherence of alpha and β1, β2 and gamma band activities between frontal regions (two hemispheres). In addition, the results showed that coherence of α, α1, β, and β2 band activities between the frontal lobe (right hemispheres) and the EEG coherence of Δ, α1, and beta band activities in the frontal lobe (two hemispheres) predict paranormal beliefs. Conclusion: This study confirms the connection of executive brain functions to paranormal beliefs and determines that frontal brain function may contribute to paranormal beliefs. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-2051-en.pdf 2022-07-24 573 584 10.32598/bcn.2021.923.2 Paranormal beliefs Resting-state Frontal regions Coherence Executive brain functions Electroencephalogram (EEG) Abdolvahed Narmashiri v.narmashiri@gmail.com 1 Institute of Cognitive Sciences Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4065-7926 Javad Hatami hatamijm@gmail.com 2 Institute of Cognitive Sciences Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8004-6636 Reza Khosrowabadi r.khosrowabadi@gmail.com 3 Institute of Cognitive Sciences Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6282-9389 Ahmad Sohrabi sohrabya@gmail.com 4 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology & Education, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5941-4521
OTHERS_CITABLE Risk-taking Behavior Under the Effect of Emotional Stimuli Among Children and Adults Introduction: Risk-taking has an important role in human life, either positive or negative. Finding a method to control or drive this in a particular way can affect the health of individuals and communities by discouraging negative risks, such as reckless driving, or encouraging positive risks. It has been shown that emotion induction can enhance risk-taking behavior. Nonetheless, studies are mainly conducted on adults and a gap to focus on adolescents group as the peak age of risk-taking is required. Therefore, a new risk-taking task is introduced and development of risk-taking behavior in children is compared with a group male adults. In addition, influence of positive and negative emotional images on the risk-taking behavior is also evaluated.  Methods: A total of 21 children and 20 adults participated in this experiment. Their risk taking behavior is obtained using a new version of the dice game task with emotional stimuli. Subsequently, performances of two groups before and after emotional priming are statistically compared. Results: The results showed that children have a higher tendency to choose riskier options when they are affected by positive emotion, while adults are more risk-averse after being primed by negative emotion. Conclusion: These findings can be helpful for policymakers and tutoring planners to control risk-taking behavior at different ages using the priming effect of positive and negative emotions. http://bcn.iums.ac.ir/article-1-1755-en.pdf 2022-07-24 585 594 10.32598/bcn.2021.2508.1 Risk-taking behavior Emotional priming Dual system theory Development Fatemeh Shahrabi Farahani arezo.shahrabi@yahoo.com 1 Institute for Cognitive & Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR Reza Khosrowabadi r_khosroabadi@sbu.ac.ir 2 Institute for Cognitive & Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6282-9389 Gholamreza Jaafari gjafari@gmail.com 3 Center for Complex Networks & Social Data Science, Faculty of Physics, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. AUTHOR