bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linkage Study of Schizophrenia with Markers on Chromosome 11 in Two Japanese Pedigrees
Authors: Nanko Shinichiro , Gill Michael , Owen Mike , Takazawa Noboru , Moridaira Junko , Kazamatsuri Hajime
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We examined the Linkage between schizophrenia and DNA markers on chromosome 11 in two Japanese pedigrees. Thirty individuals from the two pedigrees were genotyped at the eleven polymorphisms (eight loci) studied. Data were analysed according to three models, representing a range of single gene models from near dominant to an intermediate model. For all markers, except those at the D11S35 locus, there is no evidence for the linkage. Positive LOD scores between 1 and 1.5 are obtained for some genetic models with the polymorphism at D11S35. Two point scores for the broad diagnostic model and for the intermediate parameter set peak at 1.49.
Effect of Forced‐Running Stress on β‐Adrenergic Receptors in Rat Brain Regions and Liver
Authors: Nakamura Toyonori
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Rats were exposed to forced‐running stress for 1 day, 3 days or a long term (approximately 2 weeks), and P‐adrenergic receptor binding was then assayed using [3H]dihydroalprenoloI (DHA) in six brain regions and the liver. In the pons + med.obl., hypothalamus and midbrain, a reduction in Fadrenergic receptor density was first evident on day 1. In contrast, a decrease in Fadrenergic receptor density in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus was first evident on day 3. Decreased [3H]DHA binding in the pons + med.obl., cerebral cortex and hippocampus subsequently plateaued for the duration of the forced‐running stress. In the midbrain and hypothalamus, however, decreased [3H]DHA binding subsequently returned to control levels despite the exposure to the forced‐running stress. In the cerebellum and the liver, [3H]DHA binding did not change significantly throughout the stress. These results indicate that the forced‐running stress induces both the time‐ and region‐specific changes in Fadrenergic receptors. Moreover, the rats showed either a behavioral depression or a spontaneous recovery of running activity during the 2 weeks following the end of the long‐term stress. Thus, we also examined the relationship of P‐adrenergic receptors to these behavioral differences. [3H]DHA binding for the behavioral depression group was lower in the hippocampus and higher in the liver than for the spontaneous recovery group.
Long‐Term Course of Childhood Epilepsy with Intractable Grand Mal Seizures
Authors: Fujiwara Tateki , Watanabe Masako , Takahashi Yukitoshi , Higashi Takushi , Yagi Kazuichi , Seino Masakazu
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Twenty‐nine children with childhood epilepsy characterized by frequent grand mal (generalized tonic‐clonic) seizures in spite of maximal doses of antiepileptic drugs and by an early onset of seizures (before 1:year of age) were followed up for more than 5:years. The children were divided into 3:groups: severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SME), no SME, and intractable childhood epilepsy with generalized tonic‐clonic seizures (GTC). In all the 3:groups, the grand mal seizures persisted, whereas the other types of seizures tended to disappear as the patients aged, and the prognosis for mental development was poor. In the majority of cases in all the 3:groups, the waking grand mal seizures altered to sleep grand mal seizures with aging. Two pairs of monozygotic twins with SME suggested that genetic factors play a role in this epileptic syndrome. Intractable childhood epilepsy with GTC is distinguished by the absence of other types of generalized seizures. It cannot be regarded as an epileptic syndrome, but its pathogenesis and treatment require further studies.
Forceps Delivery as a Risk Factor in Epilepsy: Some Further Observations
Authors: Maheshwari M.C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: A total of 381:children born with forceps delivery and 372:with normal delivery were followed up for 4–7 years. More children in the forcepa group developed seizures than in the normal group, i.e. 22:10. This was statistically significant (P<0.05). There was no neurological deficit in any child who had seizures. Both partial and generalized seizures were seen but partial seizures were more frequent.
Animal Models: Behavior and EEG Changes of Unanesthetized Cats after Kainic Acid Injection into Unilateral Caudate Nucleus
Authors: Takano Katsunobu , Tanaka Tatsuya , Fujita Tsutomu , Yonemasu Yukichi
Published: March 2008

1. The microinjection of KA into the unilateral caudate nucleus induces secondarily generalized seizure.

2. The caudate nucleus considered to be one of the important relay structures in the generalization of epilepsy.

3. In this model of caudate nucleus epilepsy, cats did not show spontaneous seizure or choreic movement in the chronic stage.
Cultural Variations in Premorbid Personality of Endogenous Depression: A Transcultural Study
Authors: Ogawa Toyoaki , Koide Hiroyuki , Bouderlique Joël
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The triplet opus Melancholicus proposed by Tellenbach (19611, endogenous depression, a good response to antidepressants, seems to give a form of clearly defined entity. In this study comparing Typus Melancholicus in Japan and in France, we have tried to differentiate the essential elements which vary according to culture. Thirty‐eight patients corresponding to major depression (DSM‐III‐R) hospitalized in our clinics in Japan and in France and their families have been questioned during and after the pathological episodes using a method of our own devising. In Japan, opus Melancholicus is generally respected and socially well integrated because of its first characteristic, or “orderliness with consideration to others.” For that reason in the premorbid life, it is usually free from manifest conflict, and its personality is remarkably homogeneous. In France the opposite is true with the range of variations being wide with a high frequency of neurotic aspects. This may be due to the malfunction of “the orderliness with consideration to others” in France, where individualism is dominant. We have found two general types of variants, named “hypercommon” and “hypernormative.” These two directions correspond to the elements that compose opus Melancholicus: patients of the first group have a tendency to adapt to other's point of view; patients of the second group have a tendency to be under the pressure of a sense of obligation toward norms.
Bulimia Nervosa in a Pair of Male Monozygotic Twins
Authors: Iwasaka Hidemi , Iida Junzo , Kawabata Youko , Kitamura Hiroshi , Kitera Katsuki , Hirao Fumio , Ikawa Genro , Hashino Kenichi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This is a report of a pair of male monozygotic twins meeting the DSM‐III‐R criteria for bulimia nervosa. At the age of IS, both brothers began to diet and suffered from bulimia. They were admitted to psychiatric hospitals and separated. After admission, their clinical course dramatically changed. The differences in their clinical courses and endocrinological data are suggestive as to the roles of environmental and hereditary factors in the etiology of bulimia nervosa.
Influences of Prolonged Bed Rest and Cognitive Impairment on Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Nagatomo Itsugi , Nomaguchi Mitsuo , Matsumoto Kei
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Seventy nursing home residents with and 87 without cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) were examined by the modified Stockton Geriatric Rating Scale (modified SGRS) which measures four aspects of impairments; physical disability, socially irritating behavior, communication failure and apathy. They were divided into 3 subgroups according to walking ability; prolonged bed rest, walking with aids and walking by themselves in both groups. Physical disability of mental decline was significantly aggravated more than that of normal intelligence in all the subgroups. Although communication failure and apathy of mental decline had deteriorated more than those of normal intelligence in prolonged bed rest in residents without CVD, apathy of the former had deteriorated more than that of the latter in walking by themselves in residents with CVD.
Accelerated Plethysmogram in Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Nagatomo Itsugi , Nomaguchi Mitsuo , Matsumoto Kei
Published: March 2008

Abstract: To investigate the peripheral blood circulation, 24 young volunteers, 28 nursing home residents with cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) and 42 residents without them were studied for accelerated plethysmogram (APG). Both residents were rated by the modified Stockton geriatric rating scale (modified SGRS) which have four aspects of impairments; physical disability, socially irritating behavior, communication failure and apathy. As to the waveform patterns of APG, the majority of the young volunteers and both the residents showed patterns B and G, respectively. Coefficient of APG (Co‐APG) of the former was significantly larger than that of the latter. In the residents without CVD, Co‐APG was significantly negatively correlated with physical disability and apathy of the modified SGRS. But, Co‐APG did not correlate with the modified SGRS in the residents with CVD.
Decreased Superoxide Dismutase Activity in Erythrocyte in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Urakami Katsuya , Sano Kazuhiko , Matsushima Eiji , Okada Akitsugu , Saito Hiroshi , Takahashi Kazuro , Ikebuchi Jun , Mura Tetsuo , Ikawa Shiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in Parkineon's disease (PD) were significantly lower than those in controls, especially in a treated PD group. However, SOD activities in an untreated PD group did not decrease. There was a signillcant correlation between SOD activities and the duration of illness in the treated PD group (p<0.05). There was a significant correlation between SOD activities and the present doses of L‐DOPA/carbidopa in the treated PD group.
Circadian Variation in R‐THBP‐Induced Enhancement of the Ambulation‐Increasing Effect of Methamphetamine on Mice
Authors: Ida Iturou , Asami Takayasu , Kuribara Hisashi , Uchihashi Yoshitaka , Higuchi Teruhiko , Machiyama Yukiteru , Tadokoro Sakutaro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: 6R‐L‐erythro‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydrobiopterin (R‐THBP), a co‐factor for tyrosine hydroxylase and tryptophan hydroxylase, induces the enhancement of ambulation‐increasing effect of methamphetamine on mice. In this study, we investigated the circadian variation in the interaction between R‐THBP and methamphetamine by changing the time‐of‐day of both methamphetamine administration and pretreatment with R‐THBP. The mouse's ambulatory activity was measured by a tilting‐type activity cage for 4 hr. In the daytime, but not in the nighttime, the ambulation‐increasing effect of methamphetamine (1 and 2 mg/kg, s.c.) was significantly enhanced by the pretreatment with R‐THBP (100 mg/kg, s.c., 2 or 6 hr before). These data indicate the possibility that peripherally administered R‐THBP increases the biosynthesis of catecholamine especially in the daytime.
Synaptosomal Membrane Fluidity, Lipid Peroxidation and Superoxide Dismutase Activity in the Brain of Amygdala‐Kindled Rats
Authors: Itoh Takashi , Akiyama Kazufumi , Hiramatsu Midori , Otsuki Saburo
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Synaptosomal membrane fluidity, lipid peroxide (LPO) and cytosolic superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were examined in various brain regions (amygdala, hippocampus, striatum and frontal cortex) of amygdala‐kindled rats. At 24 h after the last seizure, a significant increase of membrane fluidity was observed in all the regions examined, whereas the LPO level was sigdflcantly decreased in the four regions with enhanced activity of cytosolic SOD. At 7 days after the last seizure, membrane fluidity was decreased only in the hippocampus. At 6 weeks after the last seizure, there were no changes in membrane fluidity between control and kindled rats. These results suggest that membrane fluidity and lipid peroxidation are modulated transiently by a kindled seizure, but not at a steady state of kindling with enduring seizure susceptibility.
Chronic Depression of Monopolar, Endogenous Type: With Special Reference to the Premorbid Personality, “Typus Melancholicus”
Authors: Nakanishi Toshio , Isobe Fumio , Ogawa Yasuhiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We retrospectively examined 70 depressives, who first visited our outpatient clinic in 1989, agreed to our examination and met the criteria of major depression and melancholic type in DSM‐III‐R. Forty‐nine recovered and 21 had a chronic course of a 2‐year duration. Of the items examined in the multivariate analysis, a high total LE score, a long duration prior to entry and a high degree of “Typus melancholicus” greatly contributed to the chronicity in this order of magnitude. Age, severity at entry and sex contributed to it in relatively small degrees and familial loading of depression had almost no effect on the course. The relationship between the degree of “Typus melancholicus” and course of depression was discussed based on data.
The Biological Background of Refractory Schizophrenia: A Study on Clinical States, Serum Drug Concentration, Cognitive Function and Brain CT Findings
Authors: Hori Akira , Nagayama Motowo , Shimada Hitoshi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Inpatients who had been in the hospital for more than three years (refractory group, n=53) were compared with outpatients who had not been admitted to the hospital in the last three years (remission group, n=42). There were differences between the two groups in “blunted affect‐thought disturbance” symptoms, “hallucination‐delusion” symptoms, the score of behavior rating scale (BRS), the dosage and serum concentration of antipsychotics, the score of Hasegawa's Dementia Scale (HDS) and brain CT findings. “Blunted affect‐thought disturbance” symptoms were strongly related to the BRS score, the dosage of antipsychotics and the HDS score. Sylvian fissures enlargement was related to “blunted affect‐thought disturbance” symptoms. Sylvian fissures enlargement was thought to be a biological background of refractory schizophrenia.
The Application of WPSI to Epilepsy Patients
Authors: Wang Yuping , Nakashima Kenji , Takahashi Kazuro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Eighty‐five epilepsy patients were questioned using the Washington Psychosocial Seizure Inventory (WPSI). It was confirmed that uncontrollable epilepsy patients had more severe psychosocial problems than other patients. WPSI was also useful in clinical work.
Frontal Lobe Tumor Associated with Late‐Onset Seizure and Psychosis: A Case Report
Authors: Sato Takeshi , Takeichi Masashi , Abe Masamitsu , Tabuchi Kazuo , Hara Tomihide
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This is a report of a 55‐year‐old woman with a 6‐year history of uncontrollable complex partial seizure and severe delusion. A computed tomography (CT) brain scan showed a nonenhanced low density area with an ill‐defined mass located at the right frontal lobe. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated an area of hyperintensity on T2‐weighted images. After a tumorectomy, the patient gradually recovered from the seizures and delusion. A histological diagnosis showed a mixed oligoastrocytoma or dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNT). The clinical and pathological features of the tumor as well as its relation to psychosis were discussed.
Difference of the 28‐Item General Health Questionnaire Scores between Japanese High School and University Students
Authors: Nagata Koji , Okubo Hiromi , Moji Kazuhiko , Takemoto Tai‐ichiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) with 28 items was tested in Nagasaki city on 138 senior students in a prefectural high school and 685 freshmen in a national university to evaluate the degree of students' mental stress due to the highly competitive entrance examination for university. The average GHQ score tested on high school students was 5.33 for males and 7.07 for females, and 3.99 for males and 4.42 for females on university students. It showed that high school students were under greater pressure than university students and female students were in a higher tension compared with male students. The factor analysis showed that the primary and secondary factor of high school students were “severe depression” and “anxiety and insomnia,” while “somatic symptoms” were the primary factor causing stress in university students.
Effects of TJ‐960 on Sternberg's Paradigm Results in Epileptic Patients
Authors: Nagakubo Shoji , Niwa Shin‐Ichi , Kumagai Naoki , Fukuda Masato , Anzai Nobuo , Yamauchi Toshio , Aikawa Hiroshi , Toyoshima Ryoichi , Kojima Takuya , Matsuura Masato , Ookubo Yoshiro , Ootaka Tadashi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Objectives: This study is aimed at investigating the effects of TJ‐960 on cognitive function in epileptic patients. Sternberg's paradigm was used to examine the change in cognitive function, especially short‐term memory, resulting from administration of TJ‐960, along with the effects of the drug on seizures. Subjects: The subjects of this investigation were 26 epileptic outpatients (14 males and 12 females; average age: 35‡11 years old) of the Saitama Medical School Hospital, the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital and the Tokyo University Hospital. The controls were 17 other epileptic outpatients (12 males and 5 females; average age: 40‡12 years old) of the same hospitals. Methods: The subjects were administered 7.5 g of TJ‐960 per day for 8 weeks in addition to their previous medications. Immediately before the beginning of drug administration, and again after 8 weeks of administration, they were examined, using Sternberg's paradigm. The controls were examined at intervals of 8 weeks in the same manner as the subjects (i.e., no change in regimen). Results: After 8 weeks of treatment with TJ‐960, 8 of the subjects exhibited a greater than 25% decrease in the number of seizures. Seventeen cases showed no change, and one case showed exacerbation. The correct reaction times for Sternberg's paradigm in the group administered TJ‐960 were 955‡307 ms at the time of the first examination and 881‡277 ms at the time of the second, and those of the control group were 845‡288 ms for the first examination and 829‡269 ms for the second. As these figures show, the correct reaction time was significantly shortened between the first and second examinations in the TJ‐960 group. No change was exhibited in the simple reaction time between the first and second examinations in either group. The difference in α wave power of the occipital region before and after the TJ‐960 administration was significantly greater in the patients who showed improvement in Sternberg's paradigm as compared to the patients who remained unchanged in Sternberg's paradigm. In addition, the results for the θ wave power were opposite to those of α waves. As mentioned above, TJ‐960 was presumed to have the effect of improving the cognitive function in epileptic patients.
Concentration of Neural Thread Protein in Cerebrospinal Fluid from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Yamada Tatsuo , Chong Jonathan K. , Asahina Masato , Koguchi Yorio , Hirayama Keizo
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We measured the concentration of neural thread protein (NTP) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by an automatized microparticle enzyme immunoassay from 11 progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) patients and 11 Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and 7 patients with cervical spondylosis as controls. The mean levels did not differ significantly among the groups. In the PSP group, however, the levels correlated significantly with the severity of motor symptoms, signs and functional disability but not with dementia, while the opposite was true in the PD group. The elevated levels in PSP cases may reflect an increase with progression of the disease in such pathological structures as neurofibrillary tangles or neuropil threads, while in PD such levels may indicate associated Alzheimer‐type pathology.
Effect of Pravastatin on Human Sleep
Authors: Kamei Yuichi , Shirakawa Shuichiro , Ishizuka Yoshikazu , Usui Akira , Uchiyama Makoto , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Fukuzawa Hitoshi , Kariya Tetsuhiko
Published: March 2008

Abstract: To evaluate the effect of pravastatin, an HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitor, on sleep, the drug or a placebo was administered to 5 healthy adults for 16 days by the double‐blind method. Pravastatin caused no changes in sleep parameters. This indicates that it had no effect on human sleep for the following possible reasons: Being hydrophilic, the drug does not readily cross the blood‐brain barrier. It does not inhibit prostaglandin D2 synthase, a possible sleep‐inducing substance. It was thought that a decrease in the total cholesterol level in the blood has no effect on sleep in healthy adults.
An Autopsy Case of Coexisting Portal Systemic Encephalopathy and Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type
Authors: Asada Takashi , Kobayashi Makio , Hirano Masami , Atobe Masaru
Published: March 2008

Abstract: An autopsy case of portal systemic encephalopathy and senile dementia of the Alzheimer type coexisting in a 77‐year‐old man is described. The patient had suffered recurrent episodes of delirium after a subtotal gastrectomy for gastric carcinoma. He died of DIC 45 months after the gastrectomy. A pathological examination revealed a vascular plexus around the liver which might have served as collateral circulation. Neuropathologically, spongy necrosis and Alzheimer type II changes of astrocytes were found in the basal ganglia and fronto‐occipital cortices. In the same anatomical regions, only immunohistological staining using antibody against amyloid β‐protein and the periodic‐acid methenamine silver method revealed abundant neuriticplaques, cerebral amyloid angiopathy and diffuse plaques. We discussed the clinicopathological findings in this case.
Effects of Haloperidol on the Methamphetamine Sensitization: Assessment by Ambulatory Activity in Mice
Authors: Kuribara Hisashi , Uchihashi Yoshitaka
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Haloperidol (HPD: 0.0063, 0.025, 0.1 and 0.4 mg/kg, s.c.) reduced dose‐dependently the ambulation‐increasing effect of methamphetamine (MAP: 2 mg/kg, s.c.) in mice. The repeated administration of MAP elicited a sensitization to its ambulation‐increasing effect, and the development of sensitization was inhibited when MAP was administered in combination with HPD in the repeated administration schedule. However, any dose of HPD could not ameliorate the established MAP sensitization. Whereas, the mice experienced the repeated treatment with HPD 0.4 mg/kg showed an increase in the MAP sensitivity. The present results suggest that HPD, at comparatively higher doses, produces a denervation supersensitivity of postsynaptic dopamine receptors, and shows protective action on the development of MAP sensitization. However, it is also suggested that the established MAP sensitization is irreversible even after the treatment with HPD.
A Study of Borderline Personality Disorder from the Viewpoint of Ego Functions
Authors: Koga Yasuhiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Twenty‐eight Borderline Personality Disorder patients (BPD) (by DSM‐III‐R) were compared with 19 neurotic patients by consulting clinical charts and an interview. The clinical features and ego functions were examined. The results brought this conclusion: (1) Disorders of ego functions of BPD covered a wide range, and were especially noted in object relations. Brief psychotic experiences, depressive experiences, and impulsiveness were the characteristics of the clinical features of BPD. An examination chiefly from the viewpoint of ego functions brought two more conclusions: (2) BPD could be partly included in the schizophrenia spectrum and the affective disorder spectrum, (3) BPD can be divided into two: (a) A Core Group with impulsiveness, (b) A Serious Group with impulsiveness, and brief psychotic experiences and/or depressive experiences.
Mental Health in Family Members Living with Elders
Authors: Satoh Shinji , Morita Nobuaki , Kusumoto Katsunori , Satsumi Yuki , Matsuzaki Ichiyou , Konishi Takako , Okada Takayuki , Tanabe Hajime , Yamada Mari , Oda Susumu , Nakano Takashi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We assessed the mental health conditions of 217 subjects who took care of elders at home, using our depression scale by the surveillance of the elders living at home in Ibaraki Prefecture. An analysis was made on how depression in the caretakers was related with each item of demographical results of the caretakers and the elders living together at home, and with ADL, depression, dementia, personality change and the personality trait of the elders. Our study revealed that depression, personality change and the viscous character of the elders are three factors associated with depression in the female caretakers. Furthermore, we pointed out the necessity of an education campaign to provide the caretakers with information on the elders' personality and personality change for maintenance of the good mental health of the caretakers living with the elders.
Delusional Depression and Suicide
Authors: Hori Masashi , Shiraishi Hiroyasu , Koizumi Junzo
Published: March 2008

Abstract: During the 12‐year period of retrospective observation, 38 cases of 93 major depressive inpatients were delusional and the remainders were nondelusional. We evaluated the differences on several variables, especially about suicide, between the two groups. The mean age at the onset of illness of delusional depressive patients was higher than that of nondelusional ones. The incidence of psychomotor retardation was lower in the former group than in the latter. The frequency of suicidal ideation and suicidal attempts were higher in the former group than the latter. The suicidal methods in the delusional depressives tended to be more active and violent than those in nondelusional depressives and were supposed to have a twofold mortality than those in the nondelusional ones. We discussed this high rate of suicides of delusional depression from the viewpoint of disinhibition of psychomotor retardation, chronicity, partial affinity of delusional depressives to schizophrenics and neuroendocrinological perspective.
Sleep Disturbance of End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Yoshioka Masaya , Ishii Tsuyoshi , Fukunishi Isao
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Sleep disturbance of patients with end‐stage renal disease was examined in a sample of 127 patients receiving hemodialysis (HD) therapy. The results indicate that sleep disturbance occurs quite often. Especially, there was a high incidence of sleep disturbance with prolonged HD therapy and with advancing age, and that somatic complications due to long‐term HD indirectly influence sleep disturbance. On the effect of drug therapy, levodopa produced significant clinical effects on RLS compared to ordinary hypnotics. Carbamazepine equally tended to produce favorable clinical effects on RLS.
MRI and SPECT of Klinefelter's Syndrome with Various Neuropsychiatric Symptoms: A Case Report
Authors: Miyamoto Ayumu , Kitawaki Kimio , Koida Hidenori , Nagao Kihachiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We present here magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and single photon emission computed tomography with 123I‐N‐isopropyl‐p‐iodoamphetamine (123I‐IMP‐SPECT) of a patient suffering from Klinefelter's syndrome with various neuropsychiatric symptoms. He was a 30‐year‐old male, who showed impaired consciousness seizures, auditory hallucination, delusion of reference, delusion of grandeur, psychomotor excitement and intellectual impairment. Although no focal lesion was detected by computed tomography or T1‐weighted MRI, T2‐weighted MRI provided a heterogeneous high‐signal‐intensity lesion of the inferior part of the left temporal lobe, which was not enhanced with Gd‐DTPA. In addition 123‐IMP‐SPECT exhibited focal hypoperfusion in the left temporal lobe on the early images. We suggest that the neuropsychiatric symptoms of this case are associated with the focal organic brain dysfunction which was revealed by MRI and 123I‐IMP‐SPECT.
Computerized EEG and Brain Imaging Studies in Untreated Schizophrenic Patients: A Report of Seven Cases
Authors: Miyauchi Toshiro , Kishimoto Hideji , Hagimoto Hiroshi , Fujita Haruhiro , Tanaka Kenkichi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We undertook routine EEG, Z‐map, CT and PET scans in seven acute untreated schizophrenics. Routine EEGs showed slower activity in only one case. However, the Z‐map showed slower activity in all the cases. CT demonstrated brain atrophy in three of the cases, and PET revealed hypofrontality in two, right hypoparietality in four, and both conditions in one case. There was no relation between CT and PET or the Z‐map. However, a significant increase in alpha 1 activity was demonstrated on the Z‐map in cases who were found to be the parietal type on PET; this was not conspicuous in the frontal type on PET. Moreover, in three of the patients, the Z‐map findings were similar to the lesion indicated on PET.
Effects of Zopiclone on Slow Wave Sleep and Spontaneous K‐complexes for Normal Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Hayashida Norimasa , Nakazawa Yoichi , Sakamoto Tetsuroh , Uchimura Naohisa , Kuroda Kensuke , Hashizume Yuhji , Tsuchiya Satoshi , Tsutsumi Yasuhiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Benzodiazepine (BZD) hypnotics have been known to decrease, to some degree, human slow wave sleep (SWS) although they elevate the arousal threshold during sleep. Zopiclone (ZPC), a cyclopyrrolone hypnotic, has attracted the interest of sleep researchers because an increase in human SWS has been reported. Since the increase has not been fully confirmed by all of the studies, the authors investigated the effects of ZPC 10 mg on SWS and the K‐complexes for 7 healthy young adults because there is evidence indicating that delta waves consisting of SWS and the spontaneous K‐complexes are identical. SWS and st. 4 sleep did not decrease on any of the ZPC nights but st. 3 sleep showed a tendency to reduce on the 1st ZPC night. The frequency of the K‐complexes decreased significantly on the 2nd ZPC night and tended to reduce on the 1st ZPC night. Moreover, a significant positive correlation was noted between the decrease rates of SWS and the K‐complexes on both the ZPC nights. The authors, therefore, could not obtain any findings suggesting an increase in SWS with ZPC.
Examination of β‐Protein Deposits in Alzheimer's Cerebral Cortices by Three‐Dimensional Observation
Authors: Kimura Takemi , Hisano Toshiyuki , Ueda Keishi , Miyakawa Taihei
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We examined the location of β‐protein deposits (small diffuse plaques) in the cerebral cortices of Alzheimer's patients and aged nondemented controls by observing the methenamine silver stained serial sections. Some vessels, astrocytes or neuronal elements existed near or within the diffuse plaques, and the preamyloids in the plaques were frequently detected in direct contact with vessels, astrocytes or neuronal elements. Although these findings do not demonstrate that the β‐protein within the senile plaques is produced in various cellular elements of the brain, they suggest some associations between β‐protein deposition and vessels, astrocytes or neuronal elements.
Changes in Local Cerebral Glucose Utilization and Dopamine Metabolism in the Rat Brain Following Acute Administration of Haloperidol
Authors: Kurachi Masayoshi , Yasui Shin‐ichi , Shibata Ryoko , Murata Masahiko , Hagino Hirohumi , Tanii Yasuyuki , Kurata Kouichi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The effects of acute administration of haloperidol on local cerebral glucose utilization (LCGU) in 26 discrete regions of the rat brain were examined by the quantitative autoradiographic [14C] 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose technique and compared with the changes in dopamine (DA) metabolism in 13 brain regions examined by a high performance liquid chromatographic assay. A moderate dose (0.25 mg/kg) of acute haloperidol significantly reduced LCGU in a few brain regions; a high dose (1.0 mg/kg) reduced LCGU in 11 regions including the prefrontal cortex, thalamus and other subcortical structures, but not in the caudate putamen or accumbens nucleus. However, the levels of DA metabolite in the caudate‐putamen, accumbens nucleus, prefrontal cortex, and medial thalamus were strikingly elevated with both doses of haloperidol. Thus, the changes in LCGU did not parallel presynaptic DA metabolism in terms of direction or distribution, and they might represent mainly the activities of postsynaptic sites.
Five‐Year Follow‐Up Study of Nursing Home Residents Using the Behavioral Rating Scale
Authors: Nagatomo Itsugi , Nemaguchi Mitsuo , Matsumoto Kei
Published: March 2008

Abstract: We followed up 109 elderly nursing home residents for 5 years using the modified Stockton Geriatric Rating Scale (SGRS). They were divided into 3 groups according to their walking ability, prolonged bedrest, walking with aids and walking by themselves. The scores of physical disability and apathy and the total score were in direct proportion to the degree of walking ability, and the score of communication failure of prolonged bedrest was significantly higher than those of other 2 states in the initial examination. The percentage of mortality of prolonged bedrest was significantly higher than those of other 2 groups. Physical disabilities of all the groups had deteriorated during the follow‐up period, but only communication failure of walking with aids and the total score of walking by themselves had aggravated. It is considered that using of the behavioral rating scale such as the modified SGRS is conformative in caring of the elderly.
Factor Structure of Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale for Workers
Authors: Kawada Tomoyuki , Suzuki Shosuke
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The Zung self‐rating depression scale (SDS) was applied to workers of a railway company. A total of 1,784 night‐shift workers responded to the questionnaire and 1,394 daytime workers were set as the control group. The average age of the subjects was 39.9. The SDS index decreased with age. A factor analysis was conducted and two factors were obtained having an initial eigenvalue over 2.0. Factor 1 was the group of 8 positive items, accounting for 18.2%. Factor 2 was the group of 8 depressive items, accounting for 18.1%. Four items including “loss of weight,”“constipation,”“good appetite,” and “partner coping” did not construct a distinct factor. The factor structure of SDS items of the night‐shift workers was similar to those of the control group.
EEG Changes with Aging in Adults with Down Syndrome
Authors: Ono Yoshiro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The EEGs of 40 subjects with Down syndrome (DS) aged 15 to 54 were investigated and compared with those of 42 mentally retarded subjects without DS (MR) and 47 healthy volunteers. The frequencies of the occipital alpha rhythms decreased with age in the DS subjects, and were significantly slower than the MR subjects over 35 years old. The slowing of alpha rhythm in the older DS subjects accompanied an increase of slow activity of 6–8 Hz, but did not relate to the deterioration of activities of daily life (ADL) as estimated by the GBS score. Twenty‐one subjects with DS were examined by a CT scan as well, and showed no age‐related morphometric changes.
Agreement of Visual Scoring of Sleep Stages among Many Laboratories in Japan: Effect of a Supplementary Definition of Slow Wave on Scoring of Slow Wave Sleep
Authors: do Kim Young , Kurachi Masayoshi , Horita Motoshi , Matsuura Kohki , Kamikawa Yasuko
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the agreement of visual scoring of all‐night polysomnographic recordings among many scorers from different laboratories. Ten scorers including the author from different laboratories in Japan scored the same paper recordings of two young male subjects. We calculated the agreement rate for each stage using an epoch by epoch analysis. In both records, the agreement rates for stages 2 and R were high; on the contrary, those for stages 3 and 4 were low. After adding a supplementary definition of high voltage slow wave in deep sleep, we scored the first NREM period of another subject. The mean agreement rate for stage 3 among 10 scorers was significantly higher than those of the two former subjects. However, the agreement for stage 4 did not change so much. This result demonstrates that there is much interrater (laboratory) variability of visual scoring, especially in slow wave sleep. When the result of automatic scoring is compared to that of the visual scoring to evaluate the reliability of automatic scoring, these findings must be considered.
The Effect of Phenobarbital on the Multiple Neuronal Activity in the Hippocampus of El Mice
Authors: Akasaki Yasuaki
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Phenobarbital (PB) (5, 25 and 50 mg/kg), which was administered intraperitoneally to evaluate the effect of it on El mice, inhibited convulsive seizures dose‐dependently. On the other hand, microelectrodes were implanted continually into the hippocampus of El mice, after which changes in the neuronal activity caused by a seizure were studied, as well as the effect of PB (5, 25 and 50 mg/kg) on the neuronal activity. The neuronal activity increased during the convulsive seizure when compared to the neuronal activity as the mice moved about freely. Further, after the convulsive seizure, five or six groups of bursts were seen periodically. PB reduced the neuronal activity dose‐dependently judging by the number of bursts in the initial group of bursts.
New Developments in the Search for Improved Antiepileptic Drugs
Authors: Porter Roger J.
Published: March 2008

Recent advances in neurobiology have yielded clues about the abnormal physiology of epilepsy and a better understanding of the action of the established anticonvulsants, which were discovered fortuitously or in animal screening tests. Some newer antiepileptic drugs may represent an important improvement over existing therapy, especially if they show efficacy in patients with intractable seizures or fewer limiting neurological side effects. Many developmental agents are designed to interact with a specific target and employ one of three strategies: enhancement of central inhibition; diminution of central excitation; or modulation of ionic channels regulating neuronal excitability. This article reviews the anticonvulsant compounds in development, with a focus on those being investigated in man. Updated information is also provided about the mechanisms of action of the antiepileptic drugs presently used as first line therapy.
Localizing Value of Seizure Manifestations of Temporal Lobe Epilepsies and the Consequence of Analyzing Their Sequential Appearance
Authors: Mihara Tadahiro , Inoue Yushi , Hiyoshi Toshio , Watanabe Yutaka , Kubota Yuko , Tottori Takayasu , Matsuda Kazumi , Yagi Kazuichi , Seino Masakazu
Published: March 2008

We investigated the localizing and lateralizing value of principal seizure manifestations in temporal lobe epilepsies (signal symptoms, oroalimentary automatisms, somatomotor manifestations, unilateral dystonic posturing, ictal speech, motionless stare) of 223 complex partial seizures in 50 patients. All the patients had invasive long‐term monitoring with the combined implantation of intracerebral electrodes in and subdural electrodes on the bilateral temporal lobes. Postoperative freedom from seizures was ascertained for longer than one year. We found that 35 patients had amygdalohippocampal seizures and 15 had lateral temporal seizures. The value of the manifestations was established in relation to the site and side of seizure origin and to the progression of seizure discharges within the unilateral temporal lobe or to the contralateral cerebral hemisphere. Several signs among the manifestations were found to be reliable in predicting the site or side of the temporal lobe seizure focus. We emphasized the importance of investigating sequential changes of seizure manifestations in relation to ictal EEG findings by means of simultaneous recording.
Smooth Pursuit Eye Movements and Voluntary Control of Saccades in the Antisaccade Task in Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Matsue Yoshihiko , Saito Hidemitsu , Osakabe Kazuhito , Awata Syuichi , Ueno Takashi , Matsuoka Hiroo , Chiba Hideaki , Fuse Yuji , Sato Mitsumoto
Published: March 2008

Abstract: It has been hypothesized that a saccade control dysfunction is one cause of a smooth pursuit eye movement (SPEM) dysfunction in schizophrenia. We studied the voluntary control of saccades in schizophrenic patients with the SPEM dysfunction using an antisaccade task. The mean error rate in the antisaccade task was significantly higher in the two schizophrenic groups with and without a SPEM dysfunction than in the normal control group. Furthermore, the schizophrenic group with the SPEM dysfunction showed significantly more errors than the schizophrenic group without the SPEM dysfunction. These findings seem to suggest a close relationship between the SPEM dysfunction and the appearance of errors which indicates an inability to inhibit reflexive saccades voluntarily in the antisaccade task. However, 4 of 10 subjects with the SPEM dysfunction showed an error rate less than the mean error rate of the schizophrenic group without the SPEM dysfunction. So, a voluntary control disorder of saccades as the main cause of the SPEM dysfunction appeared to be unlikely. An interesting finding of this study was that many schizophrenic subjects with the SPEM dysfunction showed errors with the latencies similar to those in express saccades2, particularly in the rightward direction. This finding may suggest a close relationship between the SPEM dysfunction in schizophrenic patients and some pathological conditions of express saccades such as disinhibition of express saccades.
Morphological Investigation of Neurofibrillary Tangles in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Miyakawa Taihei , Katsuragi Shoichi , Yamashita Kensho , Ohuchi Kiyoshi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: There are two types of neurofibrillary tangles, namely, a twisted tubule and a straight or uniform tubule in the same cell in the brain with Alzheimer's disease. However, in some parts of the same fibril, both the twisted and straight tubules clearly could be seen as a continuation of each other. This finding suggests that both of the tubules have a deep relation to each other, especially at the molecular level. This might also suggest the possibility of both tubules which mutually transform into each other.
Significant Predictors for Readmission of the Severely Mentally Ill to a Provincial Hospital: Is the Efficacy of Community Care Explicit or Implicit?
Authors: Naka Koichi , Inoue Shimpei
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The aim of our study was to determine the factors pertaining to the seriously mentally ill patients who were forewarned of readmission to a provincial mental hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia. It is well known that, compared to the psychiatric care delivery systems in Japan, Vancouver and its metropolitan area provide the seriously mentally ill with a much wider range of community mental health programs. Our sample was 161 first admission DSM‐II schizophrenic patients to a provincial hospital, who had been followed for five years. A discriminant analysis showed that of the 11 predictive factors selected, such socio‐cultural factors as living situations and country of birth were the most significant predictors.
Investigations of Mental Health of School Teachers for the Mentally Retarded and Staff Members in Social Welfare Facilities for the Mentally Retarded: Using a Japanese Version of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)
Authors: Iida Junzo , Oribe Hiroaki , Hirose Takashi , Ikawa Genro
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The mental health of 70 school teachers for the mentally retarded, 60 direct care staff in social welfare facilities for the mentally retarded, 124 nurses and 369 general office workers was investigated by means of General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). The results were: 1) The incidence of mental unhealthiness was 44.6% among staff serving the mentally retarded, tending to be higher than among nurses, and significantly higher than among general office workers. 2) Among staff serving the mentally retarded, females tended to be more mentally unhealthy than males; among school teachers for the mentally retarded, the incidence among females was significantly higher than among males. 3) As to the incidence by age and experience, among staff serving the mentally retarded, the younger the age and the shorter the experience, the higher the incidence of mental unhealthiness.
Developing of EEG Print and Its Preliminary Technical Application
Authors: Takigawa Morikuni , Fukuzako Hiroshi , Ueyama Kenichi , Takeuchi Kouzou , Fukuzako Tsuyoshi , Nomaguchi Mitsuo
Published: March 2008

In this report, we discuss a method called “EEG print” to represent EEG contrast mapping in time and frequency domains simultaneously. A bank of bandpass FIR (Finite Impulse Response) digital filters is used to obtain EEG prints. EEG prints were taken from four areas (F3, F4, O1 and O2) of EEG when healthy subjects were at rest with their eyes closed. The pattern of the prints was classified into four types: α type, β type, α+β type and complex type. It was found that EEG prints may vary from person‐to‐person but they usually do not vary much between the four areas for a given person. The method is further modified to obtain “differential EEG prints” to investigate whether meaningful higher frequency EEG components exist. Differentiation of EEG resulted in marked intensification of the fast waves, using 0.14 Hz as the critical point. In differential EEG print with higher order differentiation, amplification in the high frequency components increase their frequency. As a result, it is possible to observe variations in the high frequency components, which are otherwise not detectable in the usual EEG print. EEG print can be used for representing the function of the brain. Using the method for classification of EEG print patterns, described in this paper, we can clarify not only the characteristics of the normal brain but also the pathophysiology of mentally‐ill patients.
A Theoretical and Neurophysiological Consideration on the Pathogenesis of Positive Symptoms of Schizophrenia: Implications of Dopaminergic Function in the Emotional Circuit
Authors: Maeda Hisao
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The implications of the emotional circuit and the gating mechanism by dopamine (DA) proposed by Maeda72,73 in the pathogenesis of positive symptoms of schizophrenia were reconsidered based upon recent advances and findings in the fields of neurophysiology and neuropharmacology and in biological studies of schizophrenia. The gating mechanism by DA was partly supported by new evidence that glutamatergic or GABAergic neurotransmission, which mediates the hippocampo‐lateral septal or the piriform cortico‐amygdaloid neuronal connections, is likely to be modulated by DA. The compensation‐facilitating or gating functions of DA was considered again to play an important role in producing positive symptoms in schizophrenics, who have been suggested to have morphological abnormalities in the limbic system or in the prefrontal cortex prior to the appearance of positive symptoms.
Sex Difference in Depression and Quality of Life in Elderly People
Authors: Nagatomo Itsugi , Nomaguchi Mitsuo , Matsumoto Kei
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Two hundred and two elderly people who have been visiting a Day Service Center were examined by a Japanese version of the self‐rating depression scale by Zung (SDS) and the quality of life rating scale to suit Japanese conditions (QOL scale). The QOL scale measures four aspects: physical functioning, emotional adjustment, interpersonal relationship and attitudes toward life. Significant correlations were seen between the scores of three aspects and the total score except for the score of interpersonal relationship. Although no significant difference was found between the sexes in scores of the SDS, all the scores of aspects and the total score of the QOL scale of the male subjects were significantly higher than those of the female subjects.