Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
E
Kinds of E Terms modified by E Selected AbstractsIs oxidative stress involved in the aetiology of pre-eclampsia?ACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 2001L Poston Pre-eclampsia is one of the major indications for elective premature delivery. Several lines of evidence suggest that pre-eclampsia is associated with a state of oxidative stress, offering hope of prevention by antioxidant supplementation. It was recently shown by the present authors that supplementation with vitamin C and E from early in pregnancy leads to a reduction in the incidence of the disease in "high-risk" women. [source] Temporal Extrapolation of PVA Results in Relation to the IUCN Red List Criterion ECONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2003Oskar Kindvall For a population viability analysis ( PVA) to be useful for assessing a species' threat category, the results must have been expressed as the full extinction probability function over time or at least for the three specified time frames. Often this is not the case, and extrapolations from different kinds of PVA results ( e.g., mean time to extinction ) are often necessary. By means of analytic models, we investigated the possibilities of extrapolation. Based on our results, we suggest that extrapolation is not advisable due to the huge errors that can occur. The extinction probability function is the best kind of summary statistic to use when applying criterion E, but even then the threat categorization may be ambiguous. If the extinction risk is low in the near future but increases rapidly later on, a species may be classified as vulnerable even though it is expected to become extinct within 100 years. To avoid this, we suggest that the guidelines to the IUCN Red List criteria include three reference lines that allow for interpretation of the PVA results in the context of the three threat categories within the entire period of 100 years. If the estimated extinction probability function overshoots one of these functions, the species should be classified accordingly. Resumen: Las categorías de amenaza de la lista roja de la IUCN ( críticamente en peligro, en peligro y vulnerable ) están definidos por un juego de criterios ( A-E ). El criterio E se define cuantitativamente por tres límites especificados de riesgo de extinción ( 50%, 20% y 10% ), cada uno de los cuales se asocia a un marco temporal determinado. Para poder usar el análisis de viabilidad poblacional ( PVA ) durante la evaluación de la categoría de amenaza de una especie, los resultados deben ser expresados en función de probabilidad de extinción total sobre un tiempo o al menos para los tres marcos temporales especificados. Frecuentemente este no es el caso y las extrapolaciones de diferente tipo de resultados de PVA ( tiempo promedio de extinción ) son usualmente necesarias. Por medio de modelos analíticos investigamos las posibilidades de extrapolación. En base a nuestros resultados sugerimos que la extrapolación no es recomendable debido a una enorme cantidad de errores que pueden ocurrir. La función de probabilidad de extinción es el mejor tipo de resumen estadístico a usar cuando se aplica el criterio E, pero, aún así, la categorización de amenaza puede ser ambigua. Si el riesgo de extinción es bajo en un futuro inmediato pero incrementa muy rápidamente después, una especie puede ser clasificada como vulnerable aunque se espere que se extinga dentro de los próximos 100 años. Para evitar esto, sugerimos que los lineamientos de los criterios de la Lista Roja de la UICN incluyan tres lineas de referencia que permitan la interpretación de los resultados del PVA en el contexto de las tres categorías dentro de un periodo completo de 100 años. Si la función de probabilidad de extinción estimada se extiende más allá de una de estas funciones, las especies deberán ser clasificadas según sea el caso. [source] Performance of Greater Sage-Grouse Models for Conservation Assessment in the Interior Columbia Basin, U.S.A.CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 5 2002Michael J. Wisdom Consequently, we evaluated the performance of two models designed to assess landscape conditions for Greater Sage-Grouse across 13.6 million ha of sagebrush steppe in the interior Columbia Basin and adjacent portions of the Great Basin of the western United States (referred to as the basin). The first model, the environmental index model, predicted conditions at the scale of the subwatershed (mean size of approximately 7800 ha) based on inputs of habitat density, habitat quality, and effects of human disturbance. Predictions ranged on a continuous scale from 0 for lowest environmental index to 2 for optimal environmental index. The second model, the population outcome model, predicted the composite, range-wide conditions for sage grouse based on the contribution of environmental index values from all subwatersheds and measures of range extent and connectivity. Population outcomes were expressed as five classes (A through E) that represented a gradient from continuous, well-distributed populations (outcome A) to sparse, highly isolated populations with a high likelihood of extirpation (outcome E). To evaluate performance, we predicted environmental index values and population outcome classes in areas currently occupied by sage grouse versus areas where extirpation has occurred. Our a priori expectations were that models should predict substantially worse environmental conditions ( lower environmental index) and a substantially higher probability of extirpation ( lower population outcome class) in extirpated areas. Results for both models met these expectations. For example, a population outcome of class E was predicted for extirpated areas, as opposed to class C for occupied areas. These results suggest that our models provided reliable landscape predictions for the conditions tested. This finding is important for conservation planning in the basin, where the models were used to evaluate management of federal lands for sage grouse. Resumen: Modelos válidos de hábitat y de poblaciones del urogallo (Centrocercus urophasianus) son una necesidad crítica para su manejo debido a la creciente preocupación por la viabilidad de la población. Por lo tanto, evaluamos el funcionamiento de dos modelos diseñados para evaluar las condiciones del paisaje para el urogallo en 13.6 millones de ha de la estepa de artemisa en la Cuenca Columbia Interior y las porciones adyacentes de la Gran Cuenca de los Estados Unidos occidentales (referidos como cuenca). El primer modelo (modelo de índice ambiental) predijo condiciones a escala de la subcuenca (tamaño promedio , 7800 ha) basado en información de la densidad del hábitat, calidad del hábitat y efectos de la perturbación humana. Las predicciones variaron en una escala continua a partir de 0 (el índice ambiental más bajo) a 2 (índice ambiental óptimo). El segundo modelo (modelo del resultado de la población) predijo las condiciones compuestas, de amplio rango, para el urogallo con base en la contribución de los valores de índice ambiental de todas las subcuencas y las medidas de extensión y de conectividad de la pradera. Los resultados de la población fueron expresados en cinco clases (A - E) que representan un gradiente de poblaciones continuas, bien-distribuidas (resultado A) a poblaciones escasas, altamente aisladas con una alta probabilidad de extirpación (resultado E). Para evaluar el funcionamiento, predijimos valores de índice ambiental y resultados de la población en las áreas actualmente ocupadas por urogallos versus áreas donde ha ocurrido la extirpación. Nuestras expectativas a priori eran que los modelos deben predecir condiciones ambientales substancialmente peores (índice ambiental más bajo) y una probabilidad de extirpación sustancialmente mayor (menor resultado de la población) en áreas extirpadas. Los resultados para ambos modelos cumplieron estas expectativas. Por ejemplo, se predijo un resultado de la población de la clase E para áreas extirpadas, en comparación con la clase C para áreas ocupadas. Estos resultados sugieren que nuestros modelos proporcionaron predicciones de paisaje confiables para las condiciones probadas. Este hallazgo es importante para planeación de la conservación de la cuenca, donde los modelos fueron utilizados para evaluar el manejo de terrenos federales para urogallos. [source] Electromagnetic Effects on Transport Barrier RelaxationsCONTRIBUTIONS TO PLASMA PHYSICS, Issue 1-3 2008G. Fuhr Abstract Results of transport barrier relaxations computed with a new 3D electromagnetic simulation code (EMEDGE3D) of resistive ballooning turbulence are presented. In these simulations, a barrier forms due to an imposed E × B shear flow. We report the first self-consistent electromagnetic simulations based on first principles which exhibit barrier relaxation cycles. This barrier relaxes intermittently on confinement time scales, even if fluctuations of the E × B flow are suppressed. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Measurements of Directional Flow Using a Directional Langmuir Probe in Weakly Magnetized PlasmasCONTRIBUTIONS TO PLASMA PHYSICS, Issue 5-6 2006T. Shikama Abstract Measurement of flow directed with respect to the magnetic field is performed using a directional Langmuir probe (DLP). A previously proposed practical formula for measurement of the Mach number under a weakly magnetized condition is modified for application to the directional flow field which consists of parallel and azimuthal flow components. The effect of density gradient caused by the rotational DLP measurement in the measurement of the radial profile of ion current angular distribution is modified. For the verification of the DLP measurement, parallel flow velocity is measured from the Doppler shift of HeII emission, while azimuthal flow velocity is calculated from E × B and diamagnetic drifts. It is revealed that this method provides plausible Mach numbers in the parallel and azimuthal directions with inclusion of the effect of density gradient. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] The effect of number of lengthening contractions on rat isometric force production at different frequencies of nerve stimulationACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 3 2009M. E. T. Willems Abstract Aim:, To test the effect of 3, 10, 60 and 240 lengthening contractions (LC) on maximal isometric force of rat plantar flexor muscles at different stimulation frequencies. Methods:, Using a dynamometer and electrical nerve stimulation, maximally active skeletal muscles were stretched by ankle rotation to produce LC of the plantar flexor muscles in intact female rats. After the lengthening contraction protocols, maximal isometric force was measured at different frequencies of nerve activation to obtain frequency-dependent force deficits (weakness). Results:, The magnitude of the force deficit, measured 1 h after the protocols at 80 Hz, increased as a function of repetition number (three LC, 33.3 ± 1.7%; 10 LC, 37.2 ± 2.3%; 60 LC, 67.6 ± 1.5%; 240 LC, 77.7 ± 1.2%). Force deficits were also measured at each stimulation frequency tested (5:120 Hz). Using a ratio of isometric force at 20:100 Hz stimulation, the relative depression of force at low frequency was determined. The relative depression of isometric force at low frequency was most prominent during the early repetitions. Conclusion:, As low-frequency force depression appears to result primarily from excitation,contraction (E,C) coupling failure, the early LC in a series of repeated contractions probably contribute most to damage of the cellular components involved in E,C coupling. [source] Growth and optical characterization of Cd1- xBexSe and Cd1- xMgxSe crystalsCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 4-5 2005F. Firszt Abstract Cd1- xBexSe and Cd1- xMgxSe solid solutions were grown from the melt by the high pressure Bridgman method. Optical, luminescence and photothermal properties of these materials were investigated. Spectroscopic ellipsometry was applied for determination of the spectral dependence of the complex dielectric function (E) and refractive index n(E) at room temperature in the photon energy range 0.75-6.5 eV for samples with optic axis (c-axis) perpendicular to the air-sample interface. The critical point (CP) parameters for E0 and E1 transitions were determined using a standard excitonic CP function to fit the numerically calculated differential spectra ,2,2/,E2. The dispersion of the refractive index of the alloys was modelled using a Sellmeier-type relation. The values of fundamental and exciton band-gap energies were estimated from the ellipsometric and photoluminescence measurements. The origin of luminescence in Cd1- xBexSe and Cd1- xMgxSe was discussed. (© 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Effect of combined supplementation with vitamin E and alpha-lipoic acid on myocardial performance during in vivo ischaemia-reperfusionACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 4 2000Coombes Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute significantly to myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury. Recently the combination of the antioxidants vitamin E (VE) and alpha-lipoic acid (, -LA) has been reported to improve cardiac performance and reduce myocardial lipid peroxidation during in vitro I-R. The purpose of these experiments was to investigate the effects of VE and , -LA supplementation on cardiac performance, incidence of dysrhythmias and biochemical alterations during an in vivo myocardial I-R insult. Female Sprague,Dawley rats (4-months old) were assigned to one of the two dietary treatments: (1) control diet (CON) or (2) VE and , -LA supplementation (ANTIOXID). The CON diet was prepared to meet AIN-93M standards, which contains 75 IU VE kg,1 diet. The ANTIOXID diet contained 10 000 IU VE kg,1 diet and 1.65 g , -LA kg,1 diet. After the 14-week feeding period, significant differences (P < 0.05) existed in mean myocardial VE levels between dietary groups. Animals in each experimental group were subjected to an in vivo I-R protocol which included 25 min of left anterior coronary artery occlusion followed by 10 min of reperfusion. No group differences (P > 0.05) existed in cardiac performance (e.g. peak arterial pressure or ventricular work) or the incidence of ventricular dysrhythmias during the I-R protocol. Following I-R, two markers of lipid peroxidation were lower (P < 0.05) in the ANTIOXID animals compared with CON. These data indicate that dietary supplementation of the antioxidants, VE and , -LA do not influence cardiac performance or the incidence of dysrhythmias but do decrease lipid peroxidation during in vivo I-R in young adult rats. [source] Influence of neurohumoral blockade on heart rate and blood pressure responses to haemorrhage in isoflurane anaesthetized ratsACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 3 2000UllmanArticle first published online: 24 DEC 200 Four groups of Sprague,Dawley rats were anaesthetized with isoflurane (ISO) (1.7% end-tidal concentration) in 40% oxygen, and mechanically ventilated. The animals were bled 15 mL kg,1 b.w. from the femoral vein over 10 min, followed by an observation period of 30 min. Ten minutes before haemorrhage each group of animals was pre-treated with intravenous injection/infusion of either: isotonic saline (Group B; CON; n=7), vasopressin V1 -receptor antagonist [d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)AVP; 10 ,g kg,1] (Group C; AVP-a; n=7), the non-selective angiotensin II receptor antagonist saralasin (10 ,g kg,1 min,1) (Group D; SAR; n=7) or hexamethonium (10 mg kg,1) (Group E; HEX; n=7). A separate group of conscious animals were pre-treated with isotonic NaCl and subjected to the same haemorrhage protocol (Group A; AW; n=7). Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and blood gases were observed during the experiments. Only pre-treatment with SAR and HEX reduced MAP significantly. The pre-haemorrhage HR was only affected by HEX, which caused a reduction by 17%. The HR was significantly lower at the end of haemorrhage compared with pre-haemorrhage levels in all groups except that group treated with HEX. In that group the HR changed in the opposite direction. The ability to maintain MAP during haemorrhage, and the post-haemorrhage period, was significantly impaired in the groups treated with AVP-a, SAR or HEX compared with the group receiving NaCl. It is concluded that autonomic nervous activity is of major importance for the maintenance of MAP during isoflurane anaesthesia, whereas circulating angiotensin II and vasopressin levels contribute to a much smaller degree in this regard. General anaesthesia in combination with different degrees of neurohumoral blockade impairs the haemodynamic responses to blood loss, seen in conscious individuals. The impairment involves both the early and late phases during haemorrhage, as well as the post-bleeding recovery period. All three neurohumoral systems (autonomic nervous activity, angiotensin II and vasopressin) are of importance for regulating MAP during and after haemorrhage, although the autonomic nervous outflow appears to contribute to a larger extent. [source] Early identification of non-remission in first-episode psychosis in a two-year outcome studyACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2010E. Simonsen Simonsen E, Friis S, Opjordsmoen S, Mortensen EL, Haahr U, Melle I, Joa I, Johannessen JO, Larsen TK, Røssberg JI, Rund BR, Vaglum P, McGlashan TH. Early identification of non-remission in first-episode psychosis in a two-year outcome study. Objective:, To identify predictors of non-remission in first-episode, non-affective psychosis. Method:, During 4 years, we recruited 301 patients consecutively. Information about first remission at 3 months was available for 299 and at 2 years for 293 cases. Symptomatic and social outcomes were assessed at 3 months, 1 and 2 years. Results:, One hundred and twenty-nine patients (43%) remained psychotic at 3 months and 48 patients (16.4%) remained psychotic over 2 years. When we compared premorbid and baseline data for the three groups, the non-remitted (n = 48), remitted for <6 months (n = 38) and for more than 6 months (n = 207), duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) was the only variable that significantly differentiated the groups (median DUP: 25.5, 14.4 and 6.0 weeks, respectively). Three months univariate predictors of non-remission were being single, longer DUP, core schizophrenia, and less excitative and more negative symptoms at baseline. Two-year predictors were younger age, being single and male, deteriorating premorbid social functioning, longer DUP and core schizophrenia. In multivariate analyses DUP, negative and excitative symptoms predicted non-remission at 3 months, but only DUP predicted at 2 years. Conclusion:, Long DUP predicted both 3 month and 2-year non-remission rates in first-episode psychosis. [source] Are multi family groups appropriate for patients with first episode psychosis?ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2010A 5-year naturalistic follow-up study Rossberg JI, Johannessen JO, Klungsoyr O, Opjordsmoen S, Evensen J, Fjell A, Haahr U, Joa I, Langeveld J, Larsen TK, Melle I, Rund BR, Simonsen E, ten Velden W, Vaglum P, Friis S, McGlashan T. Are multi family groups appropriate for patients with first episode psychosis? A 5-year naturalistic follow-up study. Objective:, To compare outcome over 5 years for patients who participated in multi family groups (MFGs) to those who refused or were not offered participation. Method:, Of 301 first episode psychotic patients aged 15,65 years, 147 participated in MFGs. Outcome was measured by drop-out rates, positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS) symptom scores, and duration of psychotic episodes during the follow-up period. Results:, Multi family group participants had a significantly lower drop-out rates at 5-year follow-up than patients who did not participate. However, the MFG participants had significantly less improvement in PANSS positive and excitative symptoms and had significantly longer duration of psychotic symptoms during the follow-up period. Conclusion:, Multi family groups appear to increase the chance of retaining patients in a follow-up study, but adjustment of the programme may be necessary with first episode psychosis patients to meet their needs better. [source] Comparative assessment of time-related bioactive glass and calcium hydroxide effects on mechanical properties of human root dentinDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2009Monika Marending These materials have a disinfecting capacity similar to Ca(OH)2, but bear the advantage of bioactivity. However, because bioactive glasses initially act as alkaline biocides just as Ca(OH)2 does, they may also negatively affect mechanical dentin properties over time. This was assessed in the current study using standardized human root dentin bars. Specimens were immersed in 1:20 (wt vol,1) suspensions of nanometric bioactive glass 45S5 or calcium hydroxide for 1, 10, or 30 days. Control specimens were immersed in pure saline for 30 days (n = 20 per group). Subsequently, modulus of elasticity (E) and flexural strength (FS) of the specimens were determined. Results were compared between groups using one-way anova and Scheffé's post-hoc test. Ca(OH)2 caused a significant (P < 0.001) 35% drop in mean flexural strength values compared to the control treatment after 10 days. No further change was observed between 10 days and 30 days. Bioactive glass caused a 20% drop in mean flexural strength as compared to the control after 10 days. However, this difference did not reach statistical significance (P > 0.05). No effects of either material on dentin modulus of elasticity values were observed. It was concluded that the calcium hydroxide suspension affected the dentin more than the bioactive glass counterpart; however, the effect was self-limiting and probably restricted to superficial dentin layers, as suggested by the mere decrease in flexural strength but not in modulus of elasticity values. [source] Neural correlates of movement generation in the ,at-risk mental state'ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010M. R. Broome Broome MR, Matthiasson P, Fusar-Poli P, Woolley JB, Johns LC, Tabraham P, Bramon E, Valmaggia L, Williams SCR, Brammer MJ, Chitnis X, McGuire PK. Neural correlates of movement generation in the ,at-risk mental state'. Objective:, People with ,prodromal' symptoms have a very high risk of developing psychosis. We examined the neurocognitive basis of this vulnerability by using functional MRI to study subjects with an at-risk mental state (ARMS) while they performed a random movement generation task. Method:, Cross-sectional comparison of individuals with an ARMS (n = 17), patients with first episode schizophreniform psychosis (n = 10) and healthy volunteers (n = 15). Subjects were studied using functional MRI while they performed a random movement generation paradigm. Results:, During random movement generation, the ARMS group showed less activation in the left inferior parietal cortex than controls, but greater activation than in the first episode group. Conclusion:, The ARMS is associated with abnormalities of regional brain function that are qualitatively similar to those in patients who have recently presented with psychosis but less severe. [source] A randomised controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy for psychosis in a routine clinical serviceACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010E. Peters Peters E, Landau S, McCrone P, Cooke M, Fisher P, Steel C, Evans R, Carswell K, Dawson K, Williams S, Howard A, Kuipers E. A randomised controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy for psychosis in a routine clinical service. Objective:, To evaluate cognitive behaviour therapy for psychosis (CBTp) delivered by non-expert therapists, using CBT relevant measures. Method:, Participants (N = 74) were randomised into immediate therapy or waiting list control groups. The therapy group was offered 6 months of therapy and followed up 3 months later. The waiting list group received therapy after waiting 9 months (becoming the delayed therapy group). Results:, Depression improved in the combined therapy group at both the end of therapy and follow-up. Other significant effects were found in only one of the two therapy groups (positive symptoms; cognitive flexibility; uncontrollability of thoughts) or one of the two time points (end of therapy: general symptoms, anxiety, suicidal ideation, social functioning, resistance to voices; follow-up: power beliefs about voices, negative symptoms). There was no difference in costs between the groups. Conclusion:, The only robust improvement was in depression. Nevertheless, there were further encouraging but modest improvements in both emotional and cognitive variables, in addition to psychotic symptoms. [source] Dopamine release in ventral striatum of pathological gamblers losing moneyACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010J. Linnet Linnet J, Peterson E, Doudet DJ, Gjedde A, Møller A. Dopamine release in ventral striatum of pathological gamblers losing money. Objective:, To investigate dopaminergic neurotransmission in relation to monetary reward and punishment in pathological gambling. Pathological gamblers (PG) often continue gambling despite losses, known as ,chasing one's losses'. We therefore hypothesized that losing money would be associated with increased dopamine release in the ventral striatum of PG compared with healthy controls (HC). Method:, We used Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with [11C]raclopride to measure dopamine release in the ventral striatum of 16 PG and 15 HC playing the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT). Results:, PG who lost money had significantly increased dopamine release in the left ventral striatum compared with HC. PG and HC who won money did not differ in dopamine release. Conclusion:, Our findings suggest a dopaminergic basis of monetary losses in pathological gambling, which might explain loss-chasing behavior. The findings may have implications for the understanding of dopamine dysfunctions and impaired decision-making in pathological gambling and substance-related addictions. [source] Obsessive,compulsive disorder: a review of the diagnostic criteria and possible subtypes and dimensional specifiers for DSM-V,DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, Issue 6 2010James F. Leckman M.D. Abstract Background: Since the publication of the DSM-IV in 1994, research on obsessive,compulsive disorder (OCD) has continued to expand. It is timely to reconsider the nosology of this disorder, assessing whether changes to diagnostic criteria as well as subtypes and specifiers may improve diagnostic validity and clinical utility. Methods: The existing criteria were evaluated. Key issues were identified. Electronic databases of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and PsycINFO were searched for relevant studies. Results: This review presents a number of options and preliminary recommendations to be considered for DSM-V. These include: (1) clarifying and simplifying the definition of obsessions and compulsions (criterion A); (2) possibly deleting the requirement that people recognize that their obsessions or compulsions are excessive or unreasonable (criterion B); (3) rethinking the clinical significance criterion (criterion C) and, in the interim, possibly adjusting what is considered "time-consuming" for OCD; (4) listing additional disorders to help with the differential diagnosis (criterion D); (5) rethinking the medical exclusion criterion (criterion E) and clarifying what is meant by a "general medical condition"; (6) revising the specifiers (i.e., clarifying that OCD can involve a range of insight, in addition to "poor insight," and adding "tic-related OCD"); and (7) highlighting in the DSM-V text important clinical features of OCD that are not currently mentioned in the criteria (e.g., the major symptom dimensions). Conclusions: A number of changes to the existing diagnostic criteria for OCD are proposed. These proposed criteria may change as the DSM-V process progresses. Depression and Anxiety, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Efficacy and safety of two treatment algorithms in bipolar depression consisting of a combination of lithium, lamotrigine or placebo and paroxetineACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 3 2010M. L. M. Van Der Loos van der Loos MLM, Mulder P, Hartong EGThM, Blom MBJ, Vergouwen AC, van Noorden MS, Timmermans MA, Vieta E, Nolen WA, for the LamLit Study Group. Efficacy and safety of two treatment algorithms in bipolar depression consisting of a combination of lithium, lamotrigine or placebo and paroxetine. Objective:, In a previous paper, we reported about the efficacy of the addition of lamotrigine to lithium in patients with bipolar depression. In the second phase of this study paroxetine was added to ongoing treatment in non-responders. Method:, Bipolar depressed patients (n = 124) treated with lithium were randomized to addition of lamotrigine or placebo. In non-responders after 8 weeks, paroxetine 20 mg was added for another 8 weeks to ongoing treatment. Results:, After 8 weeks the improvement in patients treated with lamotrigine vs. patients treated with placebo was significant. After addition of paroxetine this difference disappeared as a result of greater further improvement in the non-responders to placebo. Conclusion:, Addition of lamotrigine to lithium was found effective in bipolar depressed patients. Further addition of paroxetine in non-responders to lithium plus lamotrigine did not appear to provide additional benefit, while it appeared to do so in non-responders to lithium plus placebo. [source] Meeting risk with resilience: high daily life reward experience preserves mental healthACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2010N. Geschwind Geschwind N, Peeters F, Jacobs N, Delespaul P, Derom C, Thiery E, van Os J, Wichers M. Meeting risk with resilience: high daily life reward experience preserves mental health. Objective:, To examine prospectively whether high reward experience (the ability to generate positive affect boosts from pleasurable daily events) protects against affective symptoms and whether environmental or genetic risk factors moderate protective effects. Method:, At baseline, 498 female twins participated in an experience sampling study measuring reward experience in daily life. They also completed questionnaires on childhood adversity and recent stressful life events (SLE). Affective symptoms were measured at baseline and at four follow-ups using SCL-90 anxiety and depression subscales. Co-twin affective symptoms were used as indicators of genetic risk. Results:, Baseline reward experience did not predict follow-up affective symptoms, regardless of level of genetic risk. However, high reward experience was associated with reduced future affective symptoms after previous exposure to childhood adversity or recent SLE. Conclusion:, High daily life reward experience increases resilience after environmental adversity; modification of reward experience may constitute a novel area of therapeutic intervention. [source] Seasonal allergies and suicidality: results from the National Comorbidity Survey ReplicationACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2010E. Messias Messias E, Clarke DE, Goodwin RD. Seasonal allergies and suicidality: results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Objective:, Studies have shown an association between allergies and suicidality, and a seasonality of suicide has also been described. We hypothesize an association between history of seasonal allergies and suicide ideation and attempt. Method:, Data came from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, a nationally representative sample (n = 5692) of adults living in the US. Logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR) controlling for the following: age, sex, race, smoking, asthma and depression. Results:, After weighting and adjustment, a positive and statistically significant association was found between history of seasonal allergies and history of suicidal ideation [adjusted OR = 1.27 (1.01,1.58)]. We found no association between history of seasonal allergies and history of suicide attempts [adjusted OR = 1.17 (0.89,1.52)]. Conclusion:, Findings from a population-based sample support the hypothesized relationship between allergies and suicidal ideation. [source] Recent time trends in levels of self-reported anxiety, mental health service use and suicidal behaviour in StockholmACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2010K. Kosidou Kosidou K, Magnusson C, Mittendorfer-Rutz E, Hallqvist J, Gumpert CH, Idrizbegovic S, Dal H, Dalman C. Recent time trends in levels of self-reported anxiety, mental health service use and suicidal behaviour in Stockholm. Objective:, To investigate recent time trends in several indicators of mental ill-health and the patterning of these indicators between genders and younger vs. older individuals in Stockholm County. Method:, Several indicators were used; self-reported anxiety from the Swedish Survey of Living Conditions, information on psychiatric in-patient and out-patient care, attempted and completed suicides from national and regional registers. Gender- and age-specific trends were compared for the time period of 1997,2006. Results:, Self-reported anxiety and psychiatric service use increased among young individuals of both genders, while attempted suicides increased only among young women. By contrast, these indicators decreased or remained stable in the older age group from year 2001 and onwards. Conclusion:, Our data indicate a rising, and highly prevalent, mental ill-health among the young in Stockholm County, a region representative of urbanized, secular Western societies. [source] Outcome of suicidal patients with schizophrenia: results from a naturalistic studyACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2010R. Schennach-Wolff Schennach-Wolff R, Jäger M, Seemüller F, Obermeier M, Schmauss M, Laux G, Pfeiffer H, Naber D, Schmidt LG, Gaebel W, Klosterkötter J, Heuser I, Maier W, Lemke MR, Rüther E, Klingberg S, Gastpar M, Möller H-J, Riedel M. Outcome of suicidal patients with schizophrenia: results from a naturalistic study. Objective:, Purpose was to assess suicidality before and at the time of admission in patients with schizophrenia and compare outcome differences. Method:, Biweekly PANSS (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), HAMD (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale) and UKU (Udvalg for Klinske Undersogelser Side Effect Rating Scale) ratings were evaluated in 339 in-patients with schizophrenic spectrum disorders. Response was defined as an initial 20% PANSS total score reduction at discharge, remission was defined according to the proposed consensus criteria by the Remission in Schizophrenia Working Group. Results:, Suicidal patients (22%) scored significantly higher on the PANSS negative subscore, PANSS insight item and HAMD total score at admission and at discharge. They developed significantly more side effects. No differences were found concerning response and remission between the two patient subgroups. Conclusion:, Despite receiving significantly more antidepressants the suicidal patients suffered from significantly more depressive symptoms up to discharge, yet without differing regarding response and remission. [source] A 2-year follow-up of involuntary admission's influence upon adherence and outcome in first-episode psychosisACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 5 2010S. Opjordsmoen Opjordsmoen S, Friis S, Melle I, Haahr U, Johannessen JO, Larsen TK, Røssberg JI, Rund BR, Simonsen E, Vaglum P, McGlashan TH. A 2-year follow-up of involuntary admission's influence upon adherence and outcome in first-episode psychosis. Objective:, To see, if voluntary admission for treatment in first-episode psychosis results in better adherence to treatment and more favourable outcome than involuntary admission. Method:, We compared consecutively first-admitted, hospitalised patients from a voluntary (n = 91) with an involuntary (n = 126) group as to psychopathology and functioning using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and Global Assessment of Functioning Scales at baseline, after 3 months and at 2 year follow-up. Moreover, duration of supportive psychotherapy, medication and number of hospitalisations during the 2 years were measured. Results:, More women than men were admitted involuntarily. Voluntary patients had less psychopathology and better functioning than involuntary patients at baseline. No significant difference as to duration of psychotherapy and medication between groups was found. No significant difference was found as to psychopathology and functioning between voluntarily and involuntarily admitted patients at follow-up. Conclusion:, Legal admission status per se did not seem to influence treatment adherence and outcome. [source] Risk factors for incident mild cognitive impairment , results from the German Study on Ageing, Cognition and Dementia in Primary Care Patients (AgeCoDe)ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010T. Luck Luck T, Riedel-Heller SG, Luppa M, Wiese B, Wollny A, Wagner M, Bickel H, Weyerer S, Pentzek M, Haller F, Moesch E, Werle J, Eisele M, Maier W, van den Bussche H, Kaduszkiewicz H for the AgeCoDe Study Group. Risk factors for incident mild cognitive impairment , results from the German Study on Ageing, Cognition and Dementia in Primary Care Patients (AgeCoDe). Objectives:, To provide age- and gender-specific incidence rates of MCI among elderly general practitioner (GP) patients (75+ years) and to identify risk factors for incident MCI. Method:, Data were derived from the longitudinal German Study on Ageing, Cognition and Dementia in Primary Care Patients (AgeCoDe). Incidence was calculated according to the ,person-years-at-risk' method. Risk factors were analysed using multivariate logistic regression models. Results:, During the 3-year follow-up period, 350 (15.0%) of the 2331 patients whose data were included in the calculation of incidence developed MCI [person-years (PY) = 6198.20]. The overall incidence of MCI was 56.5 (95% confidence interval = 50.7,62.7) per 1000 PY. Older age, vascular diseases, the apoE ,4 allele and subjective memory complaints were identified as significant risk factors for future MCI. Conclusion:, Mild cognitive impairment is frequent in older GP patients. Subjective memory complaints predict incident MCI. Especially vascular risk factors provide the opportunity of preventive approaches. [source] Incidence and diagnostic diversity in first-episode psychosisACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 4 2010R. Reay Reay R, Mitford E, McCabe K, Paxton R, Turkington D. Incidence and diagnostic diversity in first-episode psychosis. Objective:, To investigate the incidence and range of diagnostic groups in patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP) in a defined geographical area. Method:, An observational database was set up on all patients aged 16 years and over presenting with FEP living in a county in Northern England between 1998 and 2005. Results:, The incidence of all FEP was 30.95/100 000. The largest diagnostic groups were psychotic depression (19%) and acute and transient psychotic disorder (19%). Fifty-four per cent of patients were aged 36 years and over. Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder only accounted for 55% of cases. Conclusion:, This clinical database revealed marked diversity in age and diagnostic groups in FEP with implications for services and guidelines. These common presentations of psychoses are grossly under researched, and no treatment guidelines currently exist for them. [source] Prenatal growth, postnatal growth and trait anxiety in late adulthood , the Helsinki Birth Cohort StudyACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 3 2010J. Lahti Lahti J, Räikkönen K, Pesonen A-K, Heinonen K, Kajantie E, Forsén T, Osmond C, Barker DJP, Eriksson JG. Prenatal growth, postnatal growth and trait anxiety in late adulthood , the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study. Objective:, Trait anxiety may predispose to anxiety disorders and cardiovascular events. We tested whether prenatal growth or postnatal growth from birth to 11 years of age and in adulthood predict trait anxiety in late adulthood. Method:, Women (n = 951) and men (n = 753) reported trait anxiety using the Spielberger Trait Anxiety Scale at an average age of 63.4 years and growth was estimated from records. Results:, Higher trait anxiety was predicted by smaller body size at birth, in infancy and in adulthood. Moreover, faster growth particularly from seven to 11 years of age and slower growth between 11 and 63 years predicted higher trait anxiety. Conclusion:, We found a pattern of pre- and postnatal growth that predisposed to higher trait anxiety in late adulthood. This pattern resembles that found to increase the risk of cardiovascular events and, thus, points to a shared common origin in a suboptimal prenatal and childhood developmental milieu. [source] Dietary Supplements in the Setting of Mohs SurgeryDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 6 2002Siobhan C. Collins MD background. The use of dietary supplements has become increasingly popular. While many are safe in small doses, others may have potentially harmful effects, particularly in surgical patients. objective. To study the incidence of dietary supplement use in patients presenting for Mohs surgery. methods. One hundred consecutive patients presenting for Mohs surgery completed a questionnaire providing all current medications. During the consultation, the patients were then asked specifically about their current use of any dietary supplements. Responses differing from those on the questionnaire were recorded. results. Forty-nine of 100 patients (49%) were currently taking dietary supplements. Of this group, 17 patients (35%) self-reported the use of supplements; 32 patients (65%) did not. Thirty women (59%) were currently using dietary supplements regularly compared to 19 men (39%). Women were also more likely to self-report the use of supplements compared to men: 14 women (47%) versus three men (15%). Forty-eight of the 100 study patients (48%) were currently taking anticoagulant medications such as aspirin, warfarin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or clopidogrel bisulfate. Fifty instances were noted where patients were taking one or more dietary supplements that have demonstrated anticoagulant properties. Of this group, 21 instances (42%) where patients took a combination of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) anticoagulants and one or more dietary supplements shown to have effects on coagulation were recorded. conclusion. Of the almost 50% of patients taking dietary supplements, one-third reported usage, while two-thirds did not. Women used dietary supplements more frequently than men and were more than three times more likely to offer this information. Furthermore, many supplements have been shown to have effects on coagulation, including vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo, feverfew, and fish oils. Use of these substances alone or in combination may potentiate the anticoagulant effects of each other or prescribed medications. It is therefore important for the dermatologic surgeon to communicate openly with patients regarding dietary supplements to avoid potential complications during or following surgery. [source] The Impact of Herbal Medicines on Dermatologic SurgeryDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 8 2001Lawrence K. Chang MD Background. In recent years herbal medicines and supplements have become increasingly popular. With their increased popularity, more publications are warning about the potential harmful effects of some of these products. Objective. To present scientific evidence of the benefits and surgical risks of herbal products. Methods. A Medline search and review of the literature was performed. Results. Many herbal medicines are relevant in dermatologic surgery since Ginkgo biloba, garlic, ginger, ginseng, feverfew, and vitamin E may increase the risk of bleeding, and ephedra may potentiate the side effects of epinephrine. Conclusion. Dermatologists should be aware of these herbal products and their uses. Many of these products prescribed by alternative medicine physicians or purchased over the counter should be discontinued prior to dermatologic surgery to minimize the risk of surgical complications. [source] Interaction of vitamins C and E as better cosmeceuticalsDERMATOLOGIC THERAPY, Issue 5 2007Karen E Burke ABSTRACT:, Although many cosmeceutical formulations contain vitamin C and/or vitamin E, very few are actually effective in topical application. First because there is only a low concentration, second because the stability is compromised as soon as the product is opened and exposed to air and light, and third because the form of the molecule (an ester or a mixture of isomers) is not absorbed or metabolized effectively by the skin. However, when a stable formulation delivers a high concentration of the nonesterified, optimal isomer of the antioxidant, vitamins C and E do indeed inhibit the acute ultraviolet (UV) damage of erythema, sunburn, and tanning as well as chronic UV photoaging and skin cancer. Both are highly effective depigmenting agents. Topical vitamin C also increases collagen synthesis in both young and old fibroblasts. Because vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E, the combination in a cosmeceutical formulation is synergistic , particularly in UV protection. [source] Reduction of intramembranous particles in the periacrosomal plasma membrane of boar spermatozoa during in vitro capacitation: A statistical studyDEVELOPMENT GROWTH & DIFFERENTIATION, Issue 3 2000Fumie Suzuki-Toyota Membrane remodeling in the periacrosomal plasma membrane (PAPM) of boar spermatozoa during incubation in capacitation medium was examined by the freeze-fracture technique. In the preservation medium (PM) group, the major small (about 8 nm) intramembranous particles (IMP) and the minor large (> 10 nm) IMP were distributed evenly in the PAPM. The IMP-free area increased during capacitation. To correct the IMP-free area, arithmetically redistributed (ARD)-IMP density was used for statistical analysis. In the PM group, the mean density ± SD of large IMP was 379 ± 64 and 266 ± 58/,m2, and that of small IMP was 1450 ± 155 and 672 ± 252/,m2 in protoplasmic (P) and external (E) faces, respectively. During capacitation, the significant (P < 0.01) reduction of large IMP density was encountered only in the E face of a few incubation groups, while that of the small IMP density occurred in the P face by 2 h. Consequently, reduction of the total IMP density of both faces was not significant in the large IMP, but it was significant (P < 0.01) in the small IMP. One-fifth of the total small IMP density reduced by 2 h. Filipin-sterol complexes (FSC) were numerous in the PAPM, and FSC-free areas also increased during capacitation. The mechanism of IMP-free area formation and the behavior of the small IMP in the PAPM during capacitation were discussed in relation to membrane stability. [source] Genetic disruption of CYP26B1 severely affects development of neural crest derived head structures, but does not compromise hindbrain patterningDEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 3 2009Glenn Maclean Abstract Cyp26b1 encodes a cytochrome-P450 enzyme that catabolizes retinoic acid (RA), a vitamin A derived signaling molecule. We have examined Cyp26b1,/, mice and report that mutants exhibit numerous abnormalities in cranial neural crest cell derived tissues. At embryonic day (E) 18.5 Cyp26b1,/, animals exhibit a truncated mandible, abnormal tooth buds, reduced ossification of calvaria, and are missing structures of the maxilla and nasal process. Some of these abnormalities may be due to defects in formation of Meckel's cartilage, which is truncated with an unfused distal region at E14.5 in mutant animals. Despite the severe malformations, we did not detect any abnormalities in rhombomere segmentation, or in patterning and migration of anterior hindbrain derived neural crest cells. Abnormal migration of neural crest cells toward the posterior branchial arches was observed, which may underlie defects in larynx and hyoid development. These data suggest different periods of sensitivity of anterior and posterior hindbrain neural crest derivatives to elevated levels of RA in the absence of CYP26B1. Developmental Dynamics 238:732,745, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||