bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pheromone communication channels in tortricid moths: lower specificity of alcohol vs. acetate geometric isomer blends
Authors: Witzgall P. , Trematerra P. , Liblikas I. , Bengtsson M. , Unelius C.R.
Published: July 2009

Discrimination of conspecific and heterospecific signals is a key element in the evolution of specific mate recognition systems. Lepidopteran pheromone signals are typically composed of several compounds that synergize attraction of conspecific and inhibit attraction of heterospecific males. Blends convey specificity, but not their single components, that are typically shared by several species. Many sex pheromones are blends of geometric or positional isomers of straight-chain acetates, while species-specific blends of analogous alcohols have not been described. We have, therefore, studied the attraction of tortricid moths to the geometric isomers (E,E)-, (E,Z)-, (Z,E)- and (Z,Z)-8,10-dodecadien-1-ol. Only one species responding to these alcohols seemed to be attracted to a blend of two isomers, while most species are attracted to only one alcohol isomer. Lack of a pronounced synergist or antagonist effect of the other geometric isomers explains the lack of specific attraction to isomer blends and reduces accordingly the number of specific communication signals composed of these alcohols. In comparison, many more species respond to the analogous (E,E)-, (E,Z)-, (Z,E)- and (Z,Z)-8,10-dodecadienyl acetates and their binary blends. The acetate isomers all play a behavioural role, either as attractants, attraction synergists or antagonists, and thus promote specific communication with acetate blends. Male moths seem to discriminate the acetate isomers with greater precision than the analogous alcohols. It is proposed that discrimination is facilitated by steric differences between the four acetate isomers, as compared to the more uniform steric properties of the alcohols.
Resistance toSalmonellacarrier state: selection may be efficient but response depends on animal's age
Authors: BEAUMONT CATHERINE , CHAPUIS HERVE , PROTAIS JOCELYNE , SELLIER NADINE , MENANTEAU PIERRETTE , FRAVALO PHILIPPE , VELGE PHILIPPE
Published: July 2009

Increasing resistance to acute salmonellosis (defined as bacteraemia in animals showing symptoms) is not sufficient for food safety, because of the risk of carrier state (when animals excrete bacteria without showing any symptoms). Increased resistance toSalmonellacarrier state is therefore needed. Two experiments of divergent selection on resistance at a younger and a later age lead to significant differences between lines and allowed estimating genetic parameters on 4262 animals. Heritability of resistance was estimated at 0·16 in chicks, while it varied from 0·14 to 0·23 with analysed organ in adult hens. Genetic correlations between contamination of the different organs ranged from 0·46 to 0·67, while correlations between resistance at both ages were estimated at −0·50, showing that increasing genetic resistance of hens will reduce resistance in chicks. Highest estimated absolute values of genetic correlations between resistance and production traits were, for chicken contamination level, with number of eggs laid between 41 and 60 (0·37) and, for adult contamination, with number of eggs laid between 18 and 24 (0·37) or 25 and 40 (−0·33) weeks of age.
An unusual middle-ear mass
Authors: Muller M , Zammit-Maempel I , Hill J , Wilkins B
Published: July 2009

Objective:

We describe a case of endolymphatic sac tumour confined to the middle ear, which radiologically mimicked a glomus tympanicum, in a 58-year-old woman with tinnitus.

Case report:

A 58-year-old woman presented with a one-year history of right-sided tinnitus. The clinical, radiological and surgical features were felt to be in keeping with a glomus tympanicum. However, the histopathological picture was that of a low grade papillary carcinoma of the endolymphatic sac, i.e. an endolymphatic sac tumour.

Conclusion:

Endolymphatic sac tumours are classically locally aggressive and centred around the petrous temporal bone. Further growth results in complete replacement of the mastoid and petrous pyramid by tumour. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous reports of an endolymphatic sac tumour located solely within the hypo- and epitympanum of the middle ear.
Prognostic scoring in necrotising otitis externa
Authors: Eveleigh M O , Hall C E J , Baldwin D L
Published: July 2009

Objective:

To collect and analyse data from the published literature concerning the rare condition necrotising otitis externa, in order to formulate a prognostic scoring model based on signs and symptoms.

Design:

Retrospective data collection from published literature, and binary logistic regression analysis of the effect on outcome of identified signs and symptoms.

Results:

Six factors were identified as prognostic of a poorer outcome, including facial nerve involvement, additional cranial nerve involvement, non-cranial nerve neurological involvement, extensive granulations (or oedema) in the external auditory canal, bilateral symptoms and aspergillus species as the causative organism. A four-point scoring model based on these findings is presented.

Conclusions:

A novel, systematic method of data analysis was utilised to construct a prognostic scoring model for necrotising otitis externa. This will better equip clinicians to treat this potentially fatal condition.
High densities and depth-associated changes of epibenthic megafauna along the Aleutian margin from 2000–4200 m
Authors: Fodrie F.J. , Levin L.A. , Rathburn A.E.
Published: July 2009

The Aleutian margin is a dynamic environment underlying a productive coastal ocean and subject to frequent tectonic disturbance. In July 2004, we used over 500 individual bottom images from towed camera transects to investigate patterns of epibenthic megafaunal density and community composition on the contiguous Aleutian margin (53°N 163°W) at depths of 2000 m, 3200 m and 4200 m. We also examined the influence of vertical isolation on the megafaunal assemblage across a topographic rise at 3200 m, located 30 km from the main margin and elevated 800 m above the surrounding seafloor. In comparison to previous reports from bathyal and abyssal depths, megafaunal densities along the Aleutian margin were remarkably high, averaging 5.38±0.43 (mean±1 standard error), 0.32±0.02 to 0.43±0.03 and 0.27±0.01 individuals m−2 at 2000 m, 3200 m and 4200 m, respectively. Diversity at 2000 m was elevated by 15–30% over the deeper sites (3200–4200 m) depending on the metric, while evenness was depressed by ~10%. Levels of richness and evenness were similar among the three deeper sites. Echinoderms were the most abundant phylum at each depth; ophiuroids accounted for 89% of individuals in photographs at 2000 m, echinoids were dominant at 3200 m (39%), and holothurians dominated at 4200 m (47%). We observed a 26% reduction in megafaunal density across the summit of the topographic rise relative to that documented on the continental slope at the same depth. However, the two communities at 3200 m were very similar in composition. Together, these data support the modified ‘archibenthal zone of transition’ framework for slope community patterns with distinct communities along the middle and lower slope (the upper slope was not evaluated here). This study fills a geographical gap by providing baseline information for a relatively pristine, high-latitude, deep-sea benthic ecosystem. As pressures grow for drilling, fishing and mining on high-latitude margins, such data can serve as a reference point for much-needed studies on the ecology, long-term dynamics, and anthropogenically induced change of these habitats.
Growth and reproduction of Solen dactylus (Bivalvia: Solenidae) on northern coast of the Persian Gulf (Iran)
Authors: Saeedi Hanieh , Raad Shahrokh P. , Ardalan Aria A. , Kamrani Ehsan , Kiabi Bahram H.
Published: July 2009

Solen dactylus is a razor clam distributed throughout the coast of the northern Persian Gulf. Study on biology of razor clams in this area is important for an essential management where these clams are overfished without any control. This study provides the first estimate of growth rate and an interpretation of the reproductive cycle of S. dactylus on the coast of the Persian Gulf (Bandar Abbas). In this study, 945 razor clams were collected from April 2007 to March 2008 along two transects of Golshahr coast in Bandar Abbas. Von Bertalanffy growth parameters for transects 1 and 2 ranged from 101–108 mm for asymptotic length (L∞), 0.27–0.28 year−1 for growth constant (k), and −0.99–0.94 for age at length zero (t0), respectively. Gonads were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and gametogenic stages were based on seven stages: (Stage 0) sexual rest; (Stage I) proliferation of gonad and start of gametogenesis; (Stage II) advanced gametogenesis; (Stage IIIA) ripeness; (Stage IIIB) start of spawning; (Stage IIIC) restoration; and (Stage IV) emission. The result showed that S. dactylus is a gonochoric clam and both males and females demonstrated synchronism in gonadal development. The gametogenic cycle began in late August and ended in late February. After several minor spawnings, plus a major one in January, the razor clams entered to the sexual rest stage in March.
Copepod community structure related to environmental factors from a summer cruise in the Gulf of Gabès (Tunisia, eastern Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Drira Zaher , Belhassen Malika , Ayadi Habib , Hamza Asma , Zarrad Rafik , Bouaïn Abderrahmen , Aleya Lotfi
Published: July 2009

We studied the summer spatial distribution of the copepod community in both the neritic and oceanic areas of the Gulf of Gabès (Tunisia, eastern Mediterranean Sea) coupled with environmental factors. Copepods were the most abundant zooplankton throughout the sampling period, contributing 78% of the total zooplankton. A total of 14 copepod families were identified in all stations, with an overwhelming abundance of Acartiidae and Oithonidae (39.05 and 39.09% of total abundance, respectively). Abundance of Acartia clausi and chlorophyll-a concentrations were negatively correlated with salinity, suggesting that this species probably escaped the high coastal salinity (38 psu). Significant correlation determined between A. clausi and tintinnids at 50 m isobaths indicates that these planktonic ciliates probably served as a substantial food link towards higher trophic levels of this area. Conversely, Oithona nana which was well adapted to high chlorophyll-a concentrations and high salinity along the coast, showed significant correlations with Dictyochophyceae, Dinophyceae, Bacillariophyceae and Euglenophyceae, suggesting that this small copepod was capable of feeding on a wide selection of phytoplankton preys.
Feeding ecology ofSymbolophorus californiensislarvae (Teleostei: Myctophidae) in the southern transition region of the western North Pacific
Authors: Sassa Chiyuki
Published: July 2009

The feeding habits of myctophid larvae ofSymbolophorus californiensiswere examined in the southern transition region of the western North Pacific where the main spawning and nursery grounds ofS. californiensisare formed. This species is a key component of the pelagic ecosystems of this region, and their larvae attain one of the largest sizes among myctophids. To analyse gut contents larvae, including most life history stages after yolk-sac absorption (3.7 to 22.2 mm body length (BL)), were collected in the upper 100 m layer in 1997 and 1998. Feeding incidence was higher during the day than at night (53.1–92.3% versus 0–5.6%), and daytime feeding incidence increased gradually with larval growth. Larvae fed mainly on copepods of various developmental stages. Larvae ofS. californiensisshowed an ontogenetic change in their diet: larvae ≤7.9 mm BL (i.e. preflexion stage) fed mainly on copepod eggs and nauplii, while the larvae ≥8 mm BL consumed mainly calanoid copepodites such asPseudocalanusandParacalanusspp. In the largest size-class (16–22.2 mm BL), the furcilia stage of euphausiids was also an important prey item. There was an increase in the average prey size with growth in larvae ≤11.9 mm BL, while the number of prey eaten positively correlated with growth in larvae ≥12 mm BL. The trophic niche breadth also increased with larval growth, which would ensure a wide range of available food resources for the larger size-class larvae.
Marine planarians (Platyhelminthes: Tricladida: Maricola) from the western Mediterranean Sea and the Cantabrian coast: new records, one new genus, and immunocytochemistry of the nervous system
Authors: Vila-Farré Miquel , Sluys Ronald , D'Aniello Salvatore , Cebrià Francesc , Ferrer Xavier , Romero Rafael
Published: July 2009

Marine planarians were collected extensively from the Iberian Peninsula and Italy. As a result we provide new distributional records of six species of marine triclads, including the description of one new genus and species. The study increases substantially our knowledge of the distribution of this group of animals in Spain and reveals that even relatively well studied areas, such as Italy, still yield new species. In addition, we performed immunostaining studies of the nervous system of three of the species, which revealed the detailed organization of the main nerve cords and their branches. In the new species, the lateral nerve branches showed an arrangement that is different from that of the other species.
The ecological role ofHolothuria scabra(Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) within subtropical seagrass beds
Authors: Wolkenhauer Svea-Mara , Uthicke Sven , Burridge Charis , Skewes Timothy , Pitcher Roland
Published: July 2009

Some sea cucumbers species are heavily exploited as bêche-de-mer for the Asian food industry and the global decline of certain highly sought after species has generated an interest in determining the ecological function of those animals within their ecosystem. This study investigated the ecological role ofHolothuria scabra, a commercially valuable tropical species closely associated with seagrass beds. Seagrass productivity, seagrass and benthic microalgae (BMA) biomass and organic matter (OM) were measured during two exclusion experiments conducted usingin situcages deployed for two months both in 2003 and 2004. Density ofH. scabrawas manipulated in caged exclusions (near-zero density, ‘EX’), caged controls (natural densities, ‘CC’) and uncaged controls (natural density, ‘NC’). Seagrass growth was lower when holothurians were excluded (5% in 2003, 12% in 2004). Seagrass biomass decreased in all treatments, but reduction was greater in EX than in controls (18% in 2003, 21% in 2004). Both BMA biomass and OM increased in EX compared to NC/CC (in 2004). From a multivariate perspective, a principal component biplot separated EX from both types of controls in 2004, and multivariate tests based on four attributes supported this separation. These results indicate that seagrass systems may suffer in the absence of holothurians; however, the effect size varied between the two experiments, possibly because experiments were conducted at different times of the year. Nevertheless, our results suggest that holothurian over-fishing could have a negative impact on the productivity of seagrass systems.
Sponges associated withSargassumspp. (Phaeophyceae: Fucales) from the south-western Gulf of California
Authors: Ávila E. , Blancas-Gallangos N.I. , Riosmena-Rodríguez R. , Paul-Chávez L.
Published: July 2009

This study constitutes a preliminary assessment of the abundance and species richness of sponges living on the brown seaweedSargassumspp. from the southern Gulf of California (Mexico). The diversity and abundance of sponges associated withSargassumwas investigated from November 2006 to November 2007. In addition, it was examined whether temporal variations in the abundance of associations were influenced by changes in size and density ofSargassumas well as environmental factors such as water temperature and salinity. Twelve sponge species (4 Haplosclerida, 3 Poecilosclerida, 4 Dictyoceratida and 1 Clathrinida) were found growing epiphytically on the lower portions ofSargassumplants and the most frequent species wereCallyspongia californicaandHaliclona turquoisia(38% and 27%, respectively). The abundance of associations showed significant temporal and spatial variations, being higher from June to November (postSargassumgrowth period), at depths from 0.5–2.5 m. The number of sponge species m−2(both epiphytic and non-epiphytic) inside the seaweed bed was 4.8 species m−2, while outside it, the absence of hard substrate for attachment severely restricted the number of sponges. These results suggest thatSargassumprovide substratum and habitat for the sponge community from this region, and that their seasonal growth patterns may influence the abundance and diversity of the associations.
Long-stay psychiatric inpatients: a study based on the Camberwell Register
Authors: Hailey Anthea M.
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSIS

A cohort of patients from Camberwell, who had been in psychiatric hospital for one year or more on 31 December 1964, is described. The attrition rate for this group, and the accumulation of ‘new’ long-stay patients from the area since that date, are analysed, and compared with published data from other studies. In the light of the resulting overall decrease in the long-stay population with time, possible trends in the future can be considered.
Assessment of the severity of primary depressive illness: Wakefield self-assessment depression inventory
Authors: Snaith R. P. , Ahmed S. N. , Mehta S. , Hamilton Max
Published: July 2009

A self-assessment inventory for measuring severity of depressive illness is described, Its chief merits are brevity and simplicity. The correlation with the Hamilton Rating Scale is +0·87. At a cut-off level of 14–15 points 3% of patients and 7·5% of ‘Normals’ are misclassified. The mean scores for male and female patients do not differ significantly and the small positive correlation of score with age is of little practical significance. The limitations in this inventory are discussed but, despite them, it has practical value and merits further development.
Neurophysiological correlates of senile dementia: II. The somatosensory evoked response
Authors: Levy Raymond , Isaacs Anthony , Behrman Joan
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSIS

Specific cortical somatosensory evoked responses were recorded in nine patients suffering from senile dementia and eight elderly depressed patients. The results were as follows. (1) The latencies of each peak were longer in the demented than in the depressed group but this difference was significant only for peak 3 (the second negative deviation). (2) The late negative deviation (peak 5) was either absent or very flat in demented patients. The ratio of the amplitude of this late wave to that of the first peak discriminated between demented and non-demented patients at the 0·5% level. (3) The value of this ratio combined with that of the latency of peak 3 could be used to classify all but one patient into the correct diagnostic group. The results are discussed in the light of the relevant literature. It is suggested that slowing of conduction in the nervous system may be a very basic disturbance associated with cognitive impairment in old age and that measurements of this kind may come to assist in the diagnosis of dementia.
Folate and amine metabolites in senile dementia: a combined trial and biochemical study
Authors: Shaw David M. , Macsweeney David A. , Johnson Anthony L. , O'Keeffe Ruth , Naidoo D. , Macleods D. M. , Jog Sudha , Preece John M. , Crowley J. M.
Published: July 2009

SYNOPSIS

Folate (RBC, serum, CSF) and B12(serum and CSF) and 5-HIAA and HVA (CSF) concentrations were measured in patients with senile dementia. Those with RBC folate < 130 ng/ml. were given folate/B12in a double-blind crossover trial. (1) Amine metabolites and folate were unrelated. (2) CSF folate levels rose significantly but slowly on ward diet only independently of the period of intensive replacement. (3) There was no clinical improvement over the 24 weeks of observation but in view of the biochemical findings the period of study may have been too short.
Dementia during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries: a conceptual history
Authors: Berrios G. E.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

An historical analysis is made of the word and of the concept of ‘dementia’ before the nineteenth century. With regard to the word, it is shown that it had legal and medical meanings and that, while the former developed during the seventeenth century, the latter did so only during the eighteenth century (earlier than psychiatric historians have suggested). As evidence for the latter point, rare historical material on ‘Démence’ from the first edition of the Encyclopédie Française is presented for the first time in English. It is also shown that the legal meaning was finally enshrined in the ‘Code Napoléon’. With regards to the concept of dementia, it is shown that it took final shape in the work of Willis, Hartley and Cullen in whose view it was made to include terminal states of behavioural incompetence due to severe failure of almost any mental function. During this period, dementia was not yet associated with a particular age group nor was specifically defined in terms of cognitive deficit. The origins of the ‘cognitive’ paradigm of dementia and of the clinical boundaries of the future concept of dementia are briefly outlined.
Arginine vasopressin in manic-depressive psychosis
Authors: Penney M. D. , Levell M. J. , Hullin R. P.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Urinary excretions of arginine vasopressin (AVP), sodium, potassium, osmoles and creatinine were measured in three in-patients with bipolar manic-depressive psychosis on at least eight 24-hour periods in each affective phase. Mood and body weight were recorded twice daily. The excretion by each patient of sodium, water and osmoles was greater in mania than during depression. Comparison of electrolytes and osmoles suggested that the increase was due to increased intake of salt and water rather than of total diet. There was a fall of mean AVP excretion during mania, the magnitude of the fall being related to the increase of water throughput.

Compared with controls, AVP excretion was high and variable. It did not show the normal relationship to urine osmolality. Days with very high AVP were not associated with any characteristic feature of the other measurements; nor were they confined to any one point in the manic-depressive cycle.

AVP does not appear to play a major role in the salt and water changes characteristic of manicdepressive psychosis and we have no evidence of its having any direct relationship to mood changes. We suggest that the observed abnormalities of AVP excretion are another manifestation of the central defect of this disease.
Enlargement of cerebrospinal fluid spaces in long-term benzodiazepine abusers
Authors: Schmauss C. , Krieg J.-C.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

In 17 benzodiazepine (BDZ) dependent in-patients a CT scan was performed before initiation of withdrawal therapy. The evaluation of the ventricular to brain ratio (VBR) by standardized and computerized measurements revealed significantly higher mean VBRs for both high-and low-dose BDZ-dependent patients compared to the mean VBR of an age- and sex-matched control group. In addition, the mean VBR of high-dose BDZ-dependent patients (N = 8) was significantly higher than the mean VBR of low-dose BDZ-dependent patients (N = 9). This difference could not be accounted for by the age of the patients or duration of BDZ-dependency and, therefore, suggests a dose-dependent effect of BDZs on the enlargement of internal CSF-spaces. On the other hand, higher values for the width of external CSF-spaces were found to be related to increasing age of the patients and duration of BDZ-dependency.
Neuroleptic effects on platelet aggregation: a study in normal volunteers and schizophrenics
Authors: Dinan Timothy G.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Platelet-rich plasma from healthy controls was pre-treated with neuroleptics of the phenothiazine, butyrophenone or benzamide variety before aggregation with one of the following agonist agents: ADP, adrenaline, 5-HT, collagen, platelet activating factor or ristocetin. All compounds effective as antipsychotics, except sulpiride, depressed aggregation. Unmedicated schizophrenics showed aggregation responses indistinguishable from healthy controls. However, within days of treatment with either trifluoroperazine or haloperidol responses became abnormal in acutely psychotic patients. Increased responses to 5-HT and depressed responses to platelet activating factor were detected. After 4 weeks of treatment responses tended to return to normal. Aggregation responses were normal in those patients on long-term depot neuroleptics.
A controlled family history study of bulimia
Authors: Hudson James I. , Pope Harrison G. , Jonas Jeffrey M. , Yurgelun-Todd Deborah , Frankenburg Frances R.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Using the family history method, we assessed the morbid risk for psychiatric disorders the first-degree relatives of 69 probands with bulimia, 24 probands with major depression, and nonpsychiatric control probands. The morbid risk for major affective disorder among the first-degree relatives of the bulimic probands was 32%, significantly greater than that found in the nonpsychiatric control probands. The rate of familial major affective disorder was significantly greater in bulimic probands who had a history of major affective disorder themselves than in bulimic probands without such a history - but the latter group, in turn, displayed significantly higher rates than the nonpsychiatric control probands. Eating disorders were slightly, but not significantly, more prevalent in the families of bulimic probands than nonpsychiatric control probands. We present two alternative hypotheses which might explain these findings.
Violence in sleep: medico-legal issues and two case reports
Authors: Howard Christopher , D'Orbán P. T.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Reported cases of violence during sleep are reviewed. Two new cases are reported where the subjects were charged respectively with attempted murder and murder; both were acquitted on the grounds of non-insane automatism. Clinical features and aetiological factors are analysed. The legal concepts surrounding non-insane automatism are discussed and criticized.
The relationship between symptoms and diagnoses of minor psychiatric disorder in general practice
Authors: Grayson D. A. , Bridges K. , Duncan-Jones P. , Goldberg D. P.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

In an earlier paper (Goldberg et al. 1987) 36 common symptoms of minor psychiatric disorder in general practice were analysed using the technique of latent trait analysis. From this analysis two dimensions of illness emerged, corresponding to anxiety and depression. In the present paper, this symptom-based representation of minor psychiatric illness is used as a framework for comparing four diagnostic systems: General Practitioner (GP) diagnoses, the ID-CATEGO diagnostic system, the DSM-III system and the Bedford College diagnostic system. This analysis clarifies the reasons for disagreement among systems of diagnostic criteria and examines the practical effects of alternative diagnostic algorithms.
Intervening processes in the relationship between unemployment and health
Authors: Kessler Ronald C. , Turner J. Blake , House James S.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

A considerable amount of research documents the negative effects of job loss on both physical and mental health. Yet we know comparatively little about the mechanisms through which these effects occur. Unemployment, like other events, is not the same experience for everyone exposed to it. An understanding of this variation might be facilitated by breaking down the analysis of unemployment into a consideration of the various stresses that it creates or exacerbates. This is our purpose in the present paper.

We demonstrate that, for one area of the United States, the effect of job loss on several health outcomes involves two mechanisms: (1) unemployment results in increased financial strain which, in turn, results in negative health effects, and (2) unemployment leaves the individual more vulnerable to the impact of unrelated life events. Controlling for financial strain, unemployed people in our sample who have not experienced an additional life event in the previous year are in no worse health than the stably employed. This provides useful insights into the nature of the unemployment experience in this particular setting. It also provides a basis for future detailed explorations of the various ways people cope with this event.
Principles and practice of measuring needs in the long-term mentally ill: the MRC Needs for Care Assessment
Authors: Brewin C. R. , Wing J. K. , Mangen S. P. , Brugha T. S. , MacCarthy B.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

We report the development of a new procedure for assessing the needs for treatment and care of the long-term mentally ill. This procedure covers 21 areas of clinical and social functioning, and in each of these specifies appropriate interventions. Decision rules are described which permit problems in functioning to be primarily classified as a met need, an unmet need, or as involving no need, and which allow the identification of various secondary needs. We report preliminary data on the reliability and validity of this procedure and discuss its potential applications in the care of the long-term mentally ill.
Psychotropic drug utilization and audit in two Italian psychiatric services
Authors: De Girolamo Giovanni , Williams Paul , Cappiello Vincenzo
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

The utilization of psychotropic drugs is a topic of increasing interest. This paper describes a study of psychotropic drug use in two acute psychiatric in-patient services in Cremona, northern Italy. Almost all patients surveyed received one or more psychotropic drugs, and there was evidence of a substantial level of polypharmacy. Women patients were prescribed more psychotropic drugs than the men, while the relationship between drug prescription and psychiatric diagnosis differed between the two services. During the second phase of the study, the medical staff were aware that their prescribing was being monitored. However, this knowledge appeared to have little effect on their patterns of prescribing. The findings of Barton (1978) are thus not supported.
Differences in the quality of residential provision for mentally handicapped people
Authors: Raynes Norma V. , Sumpton Roger C.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

This paper examines the quality of care in four types of residence for mentally handicapped adults in Britain. Data were gathered from 175 residents of 150 living units – mental handicap hospital wards, voluntary and private homes, local authority hostels and parental homes. Differences were apparent between the types of residence in terms of both residents' characteristics and care practices and routines. The findings indicate that some of the differences in care practices are not associated with differences in the residents' functioning. Additionally, alternatives to hospital care for mentally handicapped people are not providing demonstrably improved quality of care in several aspects of residential practice. A discussion of those aspects of care calling for more improvement is presented.
Selective subcortical abnormalities in autism
Authors: Jacobson R. , Le Couteur A. , Howlin P. , Rutter M.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Nine physically healthy, adult autistic men, with normal or near normal intelligence, and 13 healthy male controls were examined in a CT brain scan study. CT scans were analysed with a fully automated computer-assisted program, and regional brain radiodensities were measured with careful attention to artefacts. Autistic patients revealed significantly larger third, but not lateral, ventricular size and significantly lower mean caudate, but equivalent mean frontal and thalamic, radiodensities compared to controls. The sizes of the Sylvian fissures and interhemispheric fissure were equivalent between groups. The findings are consistent with selective subcortical abnormalities in autism.
Emotional disorder and its assessment within the severe head injured population
Authors: Kinsella Glynda , Moran Carmel , Ford Bruce , Ponsford Jennie
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

This study examined the usefulness of self-report measures of emotional disorder in a relatively acute, severely head injured population (i.e. individuals who had sustained their injuries cwithin the previous two years). The General Health Questionnaire, the Leeds Scales of Depression and Anxiety, and Visual Analogue Scales of Depression and Anxiety were administered to 39 severely head injured subjects and 35 ‘close others’ who were required to give their opinions on how they thought the head injured subjects were feeling. Twenty head injured subjects were re-tested within a week. Results indicated that the head injured are able to reliably complete self-report scales as indicated by the ‘close’ others similar reports. The head injured seem to be relatively aware of their overt behaviours and emotions, at least when utilizing the General Health Questionnaire and the Leeds Scale of Depression. According to the measures of emotional disposition used in the present study, emotional disorder was found to be common. From the results it was further suggested that lack of a close confiding relationship predicts emotional disorder and may be used to identify those subjects at risk. Overall, the results provide confidence for the use of self-report scales as a preliminary approach to the identification of emotional disorder in the severely head injured.
Brain computerized tomography in subtypes of severe chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Stahl Stephen M. , Jernigan Terry , Pfefferbaum Adolf , Zatz Leslie
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Computerized tomographic (CT) brain scans were obtained in severely ill, chronic schizophrenic patients hospitalized in a long-term in-patient facility of a Veterans Administration hospital, and compared to CT brain scans from an age, sex and education-matched normal control population. In contrast to results obtained in our previous studies with younger, less severely ill, chronic schizophrenic patients, the current study population exhibited significantly increased rankings of third ventricular size and of fronto-tempero-sylvian atrophy, compared to normal control subjects.
A study of depressive typologies using grade of membership analysis
Authors: Davidson Jonathan , Woodbury Max A. , Pelton Susan , Krishnan Ranga
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Grade of Membership (GOM) analysis, a multivariate technique for studying disease, was used to explore depressive typology and relationships between depression and anxiety. One hundred and ninety patients with RDC diagnoses of major or minor depression were assessed by the Hamilton and SCL-90 symptom rating scales, the Newcastle diagnostic indices for endogenous depression and for anxiety and depression. Demographic, family and treatment response information were used as external validators.

Five pure types provided the most satisfactory solution to these data. One group corresponded to classical melancholia, occurring in older, stable, in-patients, who lacked panic-phobic symptoms. All patients with agoraphobia fell into two distinct in-patient and out-patient groups, which differed from each other in several ways. In one group, a link was found between panic attacks, agitated melancholia and familial pure depression. The second group was less symptomatic and had more atypical vegetative symptoms.

Two more groups comprised mildly symptomatic, hypochondriacal, depression, and a highly neurotic, obsessive, anxious, non-phobic depression, which was commonly related to a physical stressor.
Development of a questionnaire measure of adjustment to cancer: the MAC scale
Authors: Watson M. , Greer S. , Young J. , Inayat Q. , Burgess C. , Robertson B.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

This paper describes the development of a self-rating scale to measure adjustment to cancer. The Mental Adjustment to Cancer (MAC) Scale has been completed by 235 patients with various types and stages of cancer. It is easily understood by, and acceptable to, patients. Data relating to reliability and internal consistency indicate that the MAC scale is a valuable research tool for clinical studies of patients' psychological adjustment to cancer.
The factor structure of the GHQ-60 in a community sample
Authors: Vazquez-Barquero J. L. , Williams P. , Diez-Manrique J. F. , Lequerica J. , Arenal A.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

The factor structure of the 60-item version of the General Health Questionnaire was explored, using data collected in a community study in a rural area of northern Spain. Six principal components, similar to those previously reported with this instrument, were found to provide a good description of the data structure.

The 30-item and 12-item versions of the GHQ were then disembedded from the parent version, and further principal components analyses carried out. Again, the results were similar to previous studies: in each of the three versions analysed here, the two most important components represented a disturbance of mood (‘general dysphoria’)– including aspects of anxiety, depression and irritability– and a disturbance of social performance (‘social function/optimism’).

The principal component structure of the GHQ-60 was then utilized to calculate factor scores, and these were compared with PSE ratings using Relative Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. While four of the six factors discriminated well (area under the ROC curve 0–75 or more) between PSE ‘cases’ and ‘non-cases’, only one, depressive thoughts, was a good discriminator between depressed and non-depressed PSE ‘cases’.
Huntington's chorea in Norway
Authors: Saugstad Letten , Ødegård Ørnulv
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

By means of a National Case Register of patients admitted to psychiatric hospitals in Norway it was possible to study the case-histories of the 199 patients admitted from 1916 to 1975 with a diagnosis of Huntington's chorea. Ascertainment is likely to have been most complete for the years 1930–50, when the prevalence rates ranged between 6 and 7 per 100000 population. The social adjustment of the patients was found to be more favourable than expected up to the onset of serious psychiatric and neurological symptoms. The marriage rate and the rate of reproduction were not lowered. Occupational distribution and the pattern of migration were normal. Depression and suicide were remarkably rare. The age of onset among single patients was nearly 10 years lower than among the married, and more than 13 years lower on admission to hospital, indicating selection for marriage. With a marriage rate of about 70% and the late manifestation of the disease, predictive tests without prospects of treatment are apt to increase significantly the burden on the carriers.
Bulimia nervosa: treatment and short-term outcome
Authors: Hsu L. K. George , Holder Diane
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Fifty-six bulimia nervosa patients were treated by means of a behavioural approach and followed for at least one year after completion or dropping out of treatment. Outcome was encouraging in about half of the patients and several psychiatric indicators, such as duration of illness and response to treatment, were identified. The significance of the findings and unresolved methodological issues are discussed.
Preserved reading and spelling ability in psychotic disorders
Authors: Dalby J. Thomas , Williams Richard
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Standard scores on tests of intelligence, memory and academic achievement were obtained from individuals with either schizophrenic spectrum disorders, mania, alcohol abuse, antisocial personality disorders or no mental disorder. The three cognitive measures were highly and positively correlated in three groups (normal controls, alcohol abusers and antisocial personality disorders), while in the schizophrenic spectrum and manic groups a pattern of average reading and spelling achievement was contrasted with lower intelligence and memory quotients. It was suggested that reading and spelling ability are more accurate predictors of premorbid ability in psychotic disorders than other psychometric scales. This parallels previous findings with organic dementias and raises questions about possible shared aetiological bases between dementias and psychoses.
Possible determinants, correlates and consequences of high levels of anxiety in primiparous mothers
Authors: Barnett Bryanne , Parker Gordon
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Groups of highly anxious, moderately anxious and minimally anxious primiparous mothers (N= 147) were obtained on the basis of Spielberger trait anxiety scores in the postpartum period, and subjects were compared. Allocation to those groups appeared to be more likely to reflect constitutional levels of anxiety, rather than recent or current social stressors. Highly anxious mothers were distinguished on a number of presumed correlates of anxiety measured by clinical questions (e.g. terminating of anxious situations), hospital notes (e.g. mood problems noted by nursing staff) and blind rater assessments (e.g. unassertiveness). While highly anxious mothers were more likely to report more recent life events, less social support, and negative interpretations of the pregnancy, the hospital experience and the hospital staff, such variables were less discriminating when neuroticism levels were effectively controlled. This suggests an intrinsic perceptual bias, rather than that the factors were determinants. Highly anxious mothers had more delivery complications, while their babies were more likely to be dysmature and slow to suckle, features we interpret as consequences of the anxiety levels. In the postpartum period these mothers were more depressed, had more concerns about their baby, themselves and their marriage, and were less confident about coping and their parenting capacities. Such variables may be correlates or consequences of anxiety.
Chest pain with normal coronary arteries: a comparative study of psychiatric and social morbidity
Authors: Bass Christopher , Wade Clyde
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Ninety-nine patients with chest pain and a presumptive diagnosis of coronary heart disease were assessed blindly within 24 hours of angiography, using standardized psychiatric and social interviews and a personality inventory. Thirty-one patients had normal coronary arteries (NCA), 15 had slight disease and 53 had significant coronary obstruction. Twenty-eight (61%) of the 46 patients with insignificant disease and 12 (23%) of the 53 with significant obstruction had psychiatric morbidity.

Associations between the overall severity of psychiatric morbidity and measures of social maladjustment were strongest in the patients with normal coronary arteries. The 26 men with insignificant coronary artery disease had higher scores of neuroticism and extraversion than the 41 with important coronary occlusions. No differences were observed when the same comparisons were made for the women.

The findings indicate that approximately two thirds of patients with normal and near-normal coronary arteries have predominantly psychiatric rather than cardiac disorders: the symptoms in these patients are more likely to represent the somatic manifestations of anxiety and overbreathing than the consequences of underlying cardiac disease. Physicians should be aware of the ways in which neurotic illness may present with symptoms mimicking cardiac disease, especially when cardiovascular symptoms are accompanied by phobic symptoms and unexplained shortness of breath.
Familial Alzheimer Dementia: a prevalent disorder with specific clinical features
Authors: Breitner John C. S. , Folstein Marshal F.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

The early literature on Alzheimer Dementia (AD) describes the clinical features aphasia, apraxia and agraphia as characteristic. We investigated the hypothesis that these features would specifically identify the familial form of AD (FAD). Since pedigree studies had suggested that FAD is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder, we hypothesized that the first-degree relatives of language-disordered or apractic AD probands would show at least 50% lifetime risks of dementia. Using standardized methods, we screened 3500 nursing home beds for stringently defined AD cases and controls, tested for agraphia, and obtained probands' clinical and family histories from multiple informants. Language disorder and apraxia were found in 78% of AD cases. They strongly predicted familial aggregation of dementia, with a 90-year lifetime incidence among relatives exceeding 50%, or 7 times the control values. The results suggest that language disorder and apraxia specifically identify a distinct clinical entity, Familial Alzheimer Dementia, that is among the commonest forms of senile dementia.
Drawing disability in patients with senile dementia
Authors: Moore Vanessa , Wyke Maria A.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

A series of drawing tasks was administered to 15 patients with senile dementia who were assessed for intellectual functioning and severity of dementia. Their performance was compared with that of 15 elderly control subjects. The demented patients' spontaneous drawings were found to be impoverished in comparison with those of the controls. Copies of the same objects included more details, but these tended to be wrongly positioned in space. The performance of the patients with dementia was unlike that reported for patients with focal brain lesions. Significant relations were found between drawing performance and intellectual functioning and severity of dementia. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
The mental and physical health of clients referred to social workers in a local authority department and a general practice attachment scheme
Authors: Corney Roslyn H.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

Although numerous reports have strongly argued that there is a need for a closer collaboration between the health and social services, studies investigating the health of clients in contact with the personal social services have been few and limited. This study collected information regarding the physical and mental health of clients referred to social workers in a local authority intake team and to a general practice attachment scheme by means of questionnaires completed by the client and at interview. The results indicated that the proportions of patients with physical or mental illness were very high. However, while social workers in the attachment scheme had many contacts with members of the primary care team regarding these clients, contacts between intake social workers and medical personnel were very limited.
A new unit for long-stay psychiatric patients: organization, attitudes and quality of care
Authors: Garety P. A. , Morris I.
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

The present study describes and evaluates aspects of care in a new residential unit for chronic patients. The findings suggest that the unit is relatively resident-orientated in its management practices and that the staff are similarly orientated in their attitudes. Staff also hold generally optimistic attitudes to residents' potential accomplishments and consider themselves highly involved in decision-making. They also show high levels of positive interactions with the residents. Various aspects of staff attitudes and behaviour are positively correlated with seniority or length of time on the unit. The results are discussed in terms of the unit's organizational structure and its possible impact on residents' functioning.
Disorders of memory, language and beliefs, following closed head injury
Authors: Hill Jonathan
Published: July 2009

Synopsis

A 26-year-old man developed a syndrome following a head injury, characterized by disturbances of memory, language, and beliefs, and lasting for several years. The clinical picture was suggestive of a number of conditions, but diagnostic of none. The aetiology involved a complex interaction of biological and psychological factors, and these are discussed in relation to similar syndromes described in the literature.