bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamma Decay Heat Distribution in Core: A Known Issue Revisited
Authors: Petrangeli Gianni , Sollima Calogero
Published: August 2008

Decay heat in fission reactors is almost equally subdivided into two parts, one part due to beta rays and the other due to gamma photons. Beta rays are absorbed practically where they are generated while gamma photons travel some distance in core before being absorbed. The decay power peaking factor is, in fact, affected by this phenomenon of gamma decay heat redistribution. Calculations have been performed by the Monte Carlo MCNP5 computer code on the experimental LOFT reactor and on a larger 1000 MWe PWR using various initial power distributions with variable power peak sharpness (midheight peak width). The results indicate that an average peak energy reduction ratio of 0.82 for gamma (18% peak reduction) can be used with tolerable error up to a midheight width of the produced energy peak (neutron flux shape during operation) of 120 cm. Beyond this value, no peak energy reduction is warranted. This phenomenon of absorbed γ power redistribution in core may be very significant (100 to K reduction in calculated PCT).
Nutrition Assessment in Long‐Term Care
Authors: Thomas David R.
Published: August 2008

Assessment of nutrition status is necessary in long‐term care settings for both optimal patient care and to meet regulatory standards. Careful nutrition assessment leads to development of an individual plan of care to optimize nutrition status. Although the Minimum Data Set is mandated as the nutrition assessment tool in long‐term care settings, published studies show that the use of the Minimum Data Set to assess nutrition status is problematic. Two types of nutrition assessment instruments have been developed. The first type aims to identify those at risk for malnutrition but is not used to diagnose clinical malnutrition, whereas the second type has been designed to diagnose malnutrition. A number of commonly used nutrition assessment tools have not been validated in long‐term care populations. This review focuses on the available tools used in the long‐term care setting and provides an overview of their characteristics and performance measures.
Validation of a New Method Developed to Measure the Height of Adult Patients in Bed
Authors: Luft Vivian C. , Beghetto Mariur G. , Castro Stela M. J. , de Mello Elza D.
Published: August 2008

We present the performance of a new instrument developed to measure the height of patients in bed (Luft Ruler). Methods: Standing height was the gold standard measured in 116 hospitalized adults with a stadiometer, compared with measurements from the Luft Ruler and calculated estimates. Results: Using the Luft Ruler in women, men, < 60 years old, and> 60 years old, the mean difference from the gold standard was, respectively, 1.5 cm (P = .02), 1.3 cm (P = .06), 1.2 cm (P = .07), and 1.6 cm (P = .02); total arm span: 6.7 cm, 7.7 cm, 5.4 cm, and 9.0 cm (P < .01 for all strata); 2× half arm span: 7.8 cm, 10.2 cm, 7.7 cm, and 10.3 cm (P < .01 for all); World Health Organization (WHO) equation: 5.5cm, 6.2 cm, 4.7 cm, and 6.9 cm (P < .01 for all); and the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre equation: 1.9 cm (P < .01), 2.5 cm (P < .01), 1.1 cm (P = .12), and 3.3 cm (P < .01). The proportion of differences >5 cm was 0.9% (n = 1) using the Luft Ruler, 62.9% using total arm span, 71.6% using 2× half arm span, 64.7% using the WHO equation, and 27.6% using the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre equation. Conclusions: The Luft Ruler was the only method that presented minor mean differences in relation to the gold standard in both gender and age strata. The other estimates are not recommended because of high frequency of relevant errors.
The evolutionary origin of the Runx/CBFbeta transcription factors – Studies of the most basal metazoans
Authors: Sullivan James C , Sher Daniel , Eisenstein Miriam , Shigesada Katsuya , Reitzel Adam M , Marlow Heather , Levanon Ditsa , Groner Yoram , Finnerty John R , Gat Uri
Published: August 2008

Background

Members of the Runx family of transcriptional regulators, which bind DNA as heterodimers with CBFβ, are known to play critical roles in embryonic development in many triploblastic animals such as mammals and insects. They are known to regulate basic developmental processes such as cell fate determination and cellular potency in multiple stem-cell types, including the sensory nerve cell progenitors of ganglia in mammals.

Results

In this study, we detect and characterize the hitherto unexplored Runx/CBFβ genes of cnidarians and sponges, two basal animal lineages that are well known for their extensive regenerative capacity. Comparative structural modeling indicates that the Runx-CBFβ-DNA complex from most cnidarians and sponges is highly similar to that found in humans, with changes in the residues involved in Runx-CBFβ dimerization in either of the proteins mirrored by compensatory changes in the binding partner. In situ hybridization studies reveal that Nematostella Runx and CBFβ are expressed predominantly in small isolated foci at the base of the ectoderm of the tentacles in adult animals, possibly representing neurons or their progenitors.

Conclusion

These results reveal that Runx and CBFβ likely functioned together to regulate transcription in the common ancestor of all metazoans, and the structure of the Runx-CBFβ-DNA complex has remained extremely conserved since the human-sponge divergence. The expression data suggest a hypothesis that these genes may have played a role in nerve cell differentiation or maintenance in the common ancestor of cnidarians and bilaterians.
Generation of a restriction minus enteropathogenic Escherichia coli E2348/69 strain that is efficiently transformed with large, low copy plasmids
Authors: Hobson Neil , Price Nancy L , Ward Jordan D , Raivio Tracy L
Published: August 2008

Background

Many microbes possess restriction-modification systems that protect them from parasitic DNA molecules. Unfortunately, the presence of a restriction-modification system in a given microbe also hampers genetic analysis. Although plasmids can be successfully conjugated into the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strain E2348/69 and optimized protocols for competent cell preparation have been developed, we found that a large, low copy (~15) bioluminescent reporter plasmid, pJW15, that we modified for use in EPEC, was exceedingly difficult to transform into E2348/69. We reasoned that a restriction-modification system could be responsible for the low transformation efficiency of E2348/69 and sought to identify and inactivate the responsible gene(s), with the goal of creating an easily transformable strain of EPEC that could complement existing protocols for genetic manipulation of this important pathogen.

Results

Using bioinformatics, we identified genes in the unfinished enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) strain E2348/69 genome whose predicted products bear homology to the HsdM methyltransferases, HsdS specificity subunits, and HsdR restriction endonucleases of type I restriction-modification systems. We constructed a strain carrying a deletion of the conserved enzymatic domain of the EPEC HsdR homologue, NH4, and showed that its transformation efficiency was up to four orders of magnitude higher than that of the parent strain. Further, the modification capacity of NH4 remained intact, since plasmids that were normally recalcitrant to transformation into E2348/69 could be transformed upon passage through NH4. NH4 was unaffected in virulence factor production, since bundle forming pilus (BFP) subunits and type III secreted (T3S) proteins were present at equivalent levels to those seen in E2348/69. Further, NH4 was indistinguishable from E2348/69 in tissue culture infection model assays of localized adherence and T3S.

Conclusion

We have shown that EPEC strain E2348/69 utilizes a type I restriction-modification system to limit entry of new DNA. This restriction-modification system does not appear to be involved in virulence determinant expression or infection phenotypes. The hsdR mutant strain should prove useful in genetic analysis of the important diarrheal pathogen EPEC.
A high-throughput and sensitive method to measure Global DNA Methylation: Application in Lung Cancer
Authors: Anisowicz Anthony , Huang Hui , Braunschweiger Karen I , Liu Ziying , Giese Heidi , Wang Huajun , Mamaev Sergey , Olejnik Jerzy , Massion Pierre P , Del Mastro Richard G
Published: August 2008

Background

Genome-wide changes in DNA methylation are an epigenetic phenomenon that can lead to the development of disease. The study of global DNA methylation utilizes technology that requires both expensive equipment and highly specialized skill sets.

Methods

We have designed and developed an assay, CpGlobal, which is easy-to-use, does not utilize PCR, radioactivity and expensive equipment. CpGlobal utilizes methyl-sensitive restriction enzymes, HRP Neutravidin to detect the biotinylated nucleotides incorporated in an end-fill reaction and a luminometer to measure the chemiluminescence. The assay shows high accuracy and reproducibility in measuring global DNA methylation. Furthermore, CpGlobal correlates significantly with High Performance Capillary Electrophoresis (HPCE), a gold standard technology. We have applied the technology to understand the role of global DNA methylation in the natural history of lung cancer. World-wide, it is the leading cause of death attributed to any cancer. The survival rate is 15% over 5 years due to the lack of any clinical symptoms until the disease has progressed to a stage where cure is limited.

Results

Through the use of cell lines and paired normal/tumor samples from patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) we show that global DNA hypomethylation is highly associated with the progression of the tumor. In addition, the results provide the first indication that the normal part of the lung from a cancer patient has already experienced a loss of methylation compared to a normal individual.

Conclusion

By detecting these changes in global DNA methylation, CpGlobal may have a role as a barometer for the onset and development of lung cancer.
Modulation of viral replication in macrophages persistently infected with the DA strain of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus
Authors: Steurbaut Stephane , Merckx Ellen , Rombaut Bart , Vrijsen Raf
Published: August 2008

Background

Demyelinating strains of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) such as the DA strain are the causative agents of a persistent infection that induce a multiple sclerosis-like disease in the central nervous system of susceptible mice. Viral persistence, mainly associated with macrophages, is considered to be an important disease determinant that leads to chronic inflammation, demyelination and autoimmunity. In a previous study, we described the establishment of a persistent DA infection in RAW macrophages, which were therefore named DRAW.

Results

In the present study we explored the potential of diverse compounds to modulate viral persistence in these DRAW cells. Hemin was found to increase viral yields and to induce cell lysis. Enviroxime and neutralizing anti-TMEV monoclonal antibody were shown to decrease viral yields, whereas interferon-α and interferon-γ completely cleared the persistent infection. We also compared the cytokine pattern secreted by uninfected RAW, DRAW and interferon-cured DRAW macrophages using a cytokine protein array. The chemokine RANTES was markedly upregulated in DRAW cells and restored to a normal expression level after abrogation of the persistent infection with interferon-α or interferon-γ. On the other hand, the chemokine MCP-1 was upregulated in the interferon-cured DRAW cells.

Conclusion

We have identified several compounds that modulate viral replication in anin vitromodel system for TMEV persistence. These compounds now await further testing in anin vivosetting to address fundamental questions regarding persistent viral infection and immunopathogenesis.
Survival of Burkholderia pseudomallei in Water
Authors: Moore Richard A , Tuanyok Apichai , Woods Donald E
Published: August 2008

Background

The ability ofBurkholderia pseudomalleito survive in water likely contributes to its environmental persistence in endemic regions. To determine the physiological adaptations which allowB. pseudomalleito survive in aqueous environments, we performed microarray analyses ofB. pseudomalleicultures transferred from Luria broth (LB) to distilled water.

Findings

Increased expression of a gene encoding for a putative membrane protein (BPSL0721) was confirmed using alux-based transcriptional reporter system, and maximal expression was noted at approximately 6 hrs after shifting cells from LB to water. A BPSL0721 deficient mutant ofB. pseudomalleiwas able to survive in water for at least 90 days indicating that although involved, BPSL0721 was not essential for survival. BPSL2961, a gene encoding a putative phosphatidylglycerol phosphatase (PGP), was also induced when cells were shifted to water. This gene is likely involved in cell membrane biosynthesis. We were unable to construct a PGP mutant suggesting that the gene is not only involved in survival in water but is essential for cell viability. We also examined mutants of polyhydroxybutyrate synthase (phbC), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) oligosaccharide and capsule synthesis, and these mutations did not affect survival in water. LPS mutants lacking outer core were found to lose viability in water by 200 days indicating that an intact LPS core provides an outer membrane architecture which allows prolonged survival in water.

Conclusion

The results from these studies suggest thatB. pseudomalleisurvival in water is a complex process that requires an LPS molecule which contains an intact core region.
Interaction of the growth and tumour suppressor NORE1A with microtubules is not required for its growth-suppressive function
Authors: Moshnikova Anna , Kuznetsov Sergey , Khokhlatchev Andrei V
Published: August 2008

Background

The NORE1 protein was identified in a yeast two-hybrid screen as a Ras effector that binds Ras protein in a GTP-dependent manner. NORE1A is a growth and tumour suppressor that is inactivated in a variety of cancers. In transformed human cells, both full-length NORE1A protein and its effector domain alone (amino acids 191–363) are localized to microtubules and centrosomes. However, the mechanism by which NORE1A associates with these cytoskeletal elements is not known; furthermore, whether centrosomally-associated or microtubule-associated NORE1A suppresses tumour cell growth has not been yet established.

Findings

We have shown that purified NORE1A fails to bind to microtubules in vitro suggesting that other protein(s) mediate NORE1A-microtubule association. Using mass-spectrometry, we identified the Microtubule-Associated Protein 1B (MAP1B) and its homologue C19ORF5 as NORE1A interaction partners. Suppression of C19ORF5 expression by RNA interference (RNAi) and immunodepletion of C19ORF5 protein from cell extracts showed that binding of NORE1A to microtubules is not dependent on C19ORF5. Conversely, RNAi suppression of MAP1B revealed that MAP1B is required for association of NORE1A with microtubules. RNAi-mediated depletion of C19ORF5 or MAP1B did not prevent centrosomal localization of NORE1A. Moreover, the depletion of C19ORF5 or MAP1B did not prevent NORE1A's ability to suppress tumour cell growth.

Conclusion

The interaction of NORE1A with microtubules is mediated by MAP1B, but not C19ORF5 protein. Interaction of NORE1A with centrosomes is not dependent on C19ORF5 or MAP1B, and appears to involve a different mechanism independent of binding to microtubules. The NORE1A microtubular localization is not required for growth suppression.
Analysis of gene expression patterns by microarray hybridization in blood mononuclear cells of SLA-DRB1 defined Canadian Yorkshire pigs
Authors: Nino-Soto Maria I , Jozani Razi Jafari , Bridle Byram , Mallard Bonnie A
Published: August 2008

Background

The Swine Leukocyte Antigen (SLA) system encodes molecules for self-nonself discrimination and is associated with immune responses and disease resistance. Three lines of pigs defined by their SLA-DRB1 alleles were developed at the University of Guelph for xenotransplantation and immune response studies. The aim of this project was to explore the potential association between defined SLA-DRB1 alleles and gene transcriptional patterns of other immune-related genes in blood mononuclear cells.

Findings

Three SLA-DRB1 alleles were characterized using a RT-PCR-based sequencing method. The loci represented included a new allele, DRB1*04ns01. Next, microarray heterologous (bovine-porcine) hybridization together with qPCR were used to explore differential gene expression between SLA-DRB1-defined groups. Microarray analysis showed significant (p < 0.01) differential expression for 5 genes, mostly related to inflammation. Genes varied according to the comparison analyzed. Further testing with qPCR revealed the same trend of differential expression for 4 of the genes, although statistical significance was reached for only one.

Conclusion

A new SLA-DRB1 allele was characterized. A potential association was found between SLA-DRB1 alleles and inflammation-related genes. However, the influence of other genes cannot be ruled out. These preliminary findings agree with other studies linking MHC haplotypes and inflammation processes, including autoimmune disease. The study provides an initial view of the biological interactions between the SLA complex and other immune-related genes. Future studies will focus on characterization of SLA-haplotypes associated with these particular alleles and the dynamics of the immune response to antigenic challenges.
Caveolin-1 expression and stress-induced premature senescence in human intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Heathfield Sarah Kathleen , Le Maitre Christine Lyn , Hoyland Judith Alison
Published: August 2008

Introduction

Chronic and debilitating low back pain is a common condition and a huge economic burden. Many cases are attributed to age-related degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD); however, age-related degeneration appears to occur at an accelerated rate in some individuals. We have previously demonstrated biomarkers of cellular senescence within the human IVD and suggested a role for senescence in IVD degeneration. Senescence occurs with ageing but can also occur prematurely in response to stress. We hypothesised that stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) occurs within the IVD and here we have investigated the expression and production of caveolin-1, a protein that has been shown previously to be upregulated in SIPS.

Methods

Caveolin-1 gene expression in human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells was assessed by conventional and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and caveolin-1 protein expression was examined within human IVDs using immunohistochemistry. The correlation between caveolin-1 and p16INK4a (biomarker of cellular senescence) gene expression was investigated using quantitative real-time PCR.

Results

Caveolin-1 gene expression and protein expression were demonstrated within the human IVD for the first time. NP cells from degenerate discs exhibited elevated levels of caveolin-1 which did not relate to increasing chronological age. A negative correlation was observed between gene expression for caveolin-1 and donor age, and no correlation was found between caveolin-1 protein expression and age. A positive correlation was identified between gene expression of caveolin-1 and p16INK4a.

Conclusion

Our findings are consistent with a role for caveolin-1 in degenerative rather than age-induced changes in the NP. Its expression in IVD tissue and its association with the senescent phenotype suggest that caveolin-1 and SIPS may play a prominent role in the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration.
Proteopedia- a scientific 'wiki' bridging the rift between three-dimensional structure and function of biomacromolecules
Authors: Hodis Eran , Prilusky Jaime , Martz Eric , Silman Israel , Moult John , Sussman Joel L
Published: August 2008

Many scientists lack the background to fully utilize the wealth of solved three-dimensional biomacromolecule structures. Thus, a resource is needed to present structure/function information in a user-friendly manner to a broad scientific audience. Proteopediahttp://www.proteopedia.org is an interactive, wiki web-resource whose pages have embedded three-dimensional structures surrounded by descriptive text containing hyperlinks that change the appearance (view, representations, colors, labels) of the adjacent three-dimensional structure to reflect the concept explained in the text.
The Classification of the Sciences
Authors: H. M.
Published: August 2008

So extensive is the field of human knowledge, so many and wide apart are the spots at which ground has been broken, and so evident is the necessity for men to be special in their studies if they would be thoroughly masters of their subjects, that there is no little danger lest workers in one department may be unappreciated by, if not actually unknown to, those who are employed in another part. Any one who will give his attention to the matter may observe examples of lines of investigation, which have really close relations, and the results of which might be of mutual aid, running side by side, like parallel lines, without meeting. Accordingly, M. Comte was of opinion that there was needed a new order of scientific men, whose function it should be to bring together and co-ordinate the results of the different workers; and it is plain that such an organisation must be effected somehow. But great mischief would of a certainty result from men specially undertaking this work: unless they are thoroughly and practically grounded in some science, unless they have plodded in patient and tedious investigation, they are almost sure to go astray into vain and seductive speculations, which are never definite enough to be useful, are often enticing enough to be mischievous. If a valuable idea is perchance hit upon, it is potential rather than real, as a statue is potential in a block of marble, though it has yet to be hewn out; it is so shrouded in theoretical haze, and so much wanting in exactness, that it is of no value until the patient work of the practical men has defined it, put it in its proper place, and so to speak guaranteed its worth. Even Goethe, exceptionally powerful as his mind was, and much as he worked, owed his scientific troubles and his scientific errors to a want of practical knowledge. Those who have not had a scientific training must lack the scientific imagination.
G. Combe and his Writings. A Lecture delivered at Bristol
Authors: Davey J. G.
Published: August 2008

It is now many years since I stumbled, by the merest accident, on this very important question:
“Hath nature's soul,That formed this world so beautiful, that spreadEarth's lap with plenty, and life's smaller chordStrung to unchanging unison, that gaveThe happy birds their dwelling in the grove,That yielded to the wanderers of the deepThe lovely silence of the unfathomed main,And filled the meanest worm that crawls in dustWith spirit, thought, and love; on man alonePartial in causeless malice, wantonlyHeaped, ruin, nee, and slavery; his soulBlasted with withering curses: placed afarThe meteor happiness, that shuns his grasp?”
Neuropathy, or Vaso-Motor Therapeutics: A New Method of treating disease through the agency of the Nervous System
Authors: Chapman John
Published: August 2008

Disease, in the great majority of its forms, consists, according to the most scientific pathologists, in either an excess or deficiency of those transformative processes by which new structures are built up and the old dissolved and carried away, and on the continuance of which the healthy growth and sustenance of the organism depend. Until an animal is full grown the constructive processes are in their maximum state of normal activity; while, relatively, the destructive processes are at their maximum of abeyance. But for the continuance of healthy adult life the balance of organic change must remain always even: growth must be equalled by decay; the agents of each must do equal work. If after the attainment of maturity the relative activity of the composing and decomposing processes should continue the same as before in any part of the organism, hypertrophy or abnormal growth would be the result. If, on the other hand, that relative activity is reversed–the destructive metamorphoses becoming predominant, either locally or generally–there is corresponding atrophy. Moreover, as one of the essential conditions of normal life, the co-ordinate action of the constructive and destructive agencies must range, within certain degrees of rapidity, beyond those limits in either direction the regions of disease are entered on. If that action be unduly slow, the physical frame is weak, the emotional nature is apathetic, the intellect lacks energy–systematic thinking being a toilsome or impossible task; if successively slower still, corresponding phases of vital degradation are passed through, until at length death itself ensues. If, on the contrary, the transformative processes be unduly rapid, there is exuberance of activity, both muscular and mental: repose is suffering; the feelings are intense, but quickly changeable; the intellect exhibits an excess of energy– ideas too rapidly formed to admit of adequate development chase each other through the mind in quick succession, and, having no stability, fail to become effective forces, shaping the life of the individual to some great or definite end. The physical and mental calm of conscious strength which the most healthy natures experience is wanting, existence being impulsive, restless, tumultuous, feverish– a sort of border land between normal activity and the most temperate zones of inflammation.
Remarks on a Recent Attempt at the Comparative Statistics of Bethlehem Hospital and of the English County Asylums
Authors: Robertson C. Lockhart
Published: August 2008

Mr. Presidentand Gentlemen,–Inthe annual report of the resident physician of Bethlehem for 1864 the following observations on the comparative statistics of Bethlehem Hospital and the English County Asylums occur:–The attention of the Governors and of all those interested in obtaining accurate information on the important question of the cure of the insane is earnestly requested to the following statistics collected by Mr. James Ellis, Medical Superintendent at St. Luke's Hospital, from the admissions into forty-four public asylums in the united kingdom, and from actual returns from each asylum. It shows the total number of patients received into each institution, and distinguishes those which would be from those which would not be admitted into Bethlehem Hospital. It also shows the numbers and per centage of the cures and deaths of such admissible patients during the first year of residence. [Here follows Mr. Ellis's table.]
Epileptics: Their Mental Condition. A Lecture
Authors: Browne W. A. F.
Published: August 2008

“On en est même vena aujourd'hui admettre que tons les épileptiques, sans exception, presentent, à certain degré, des perturbations de l'intelligence ou da caractère, et qu'aucun d'eux ne peut être considéré comme absolument sain d'esprit, [p. 661.] ∗ ∗ Cependant tous les auteurs sont d'accord pour reconnaître que la plupart des épileptiqnes présentent, à divers degrés, des troubles de I'intelligence et du caractère dans le cours habituel de leur existence, en dehors de leurs attaques convulsives.”–“De l'Etat Mental des Epileptiques,” par le Dr. Jules Fahret; ‘Archives Générales de Médecine,’ t. ii, 1860, p. 668.
On the Specific Gravity of Different Parts of the Human Brain
Authors: Bastian H. Charlton
Published: August 2008

The question of the specific gravity of the brain has already engaged the attention of several British investigators, the results of whose labours have from time to time been made known, but with the exception of a few isolated observations little has been done to this subject by continental anatomists or pathologists. At a time like the present, when the attention of scientific men is directed with renewed interest to all details concerning weight, form, and configu ration of the human brain, it seems reasonable to suppose that more complete observations upon the specific gravities of its several parts would be of itself a matter of scientific interest, independently of the importance attaching to the subject on account of the probable light which such an investigation might throw upon the situations of change in brain tissue, in connection with certain obscure forms of cerebral disease. The observations of previous inquirers have been directed to the estimation of the specific weights of the cere brum and cerebellum as a whole, of the gray and white matter separately, and of the combined central ganglia of the cerebrum. These investigations have been made by some, upon the brains of sane, and by others, upon those of insane individuals; and amongst the forty persons whose brains I have myself examined, there are also representatives of these two classes, though a large majority is included under the former denomination. Whilst tho actual number of brains inspected by myself is, therefore, limited, still the examination of their several parts has been more complete, so that this communication contains a record not only of differences found to exist in the specific gravity of gray matter taken from frontal, parietal, and occipital convolutions respectively; but, also, I believe for the first time, of the specific weights of the optic thalami, pons, medulla oblongata, and different parts of the corpora striata, taken sepa rately. Some of the facts so ascertained are very interesting, and seem to justify their early publication. Owing, also, to the existence of certain discrepancies in the results arrived at by preceding inves tigators and myself, it seems desirable that these discrepancies as well as our respective methods should be considered, with a view, if possible, of ensuring greater uniformity of results for the future. Investigations of a delicate nature such as these, when conducted by different observers, are comparatively useless for the purposes of comparison, unless some uniform method be adopted. These considerations have induced me to make known the results of my own observations sooner than I should otherwise have done, and will, I hope, be deemed a sufficient justification for my bringing them forward before they are sufficiently numerous to enable me to draw any very safe deductions from them. The present paper may, therefore, be con sidered as a first contribution towards the elucidation of a subject, at which I hope to work more thoroughly in the future.
The Asylums for the Insane in St. Petersburg and Copenhagen
Authors: Belgrave T. B.
Published: August 2008

The labours of the reformers of lunatic asylums in England have been beneficially felt in the remotest countries in the world. While in France, where the humane method of treatment was initiated, and in certain other continental countries, the amelioration in the con dition of the insane has been less conspicuous than could have been desired or expected in nations which have attained a brilliant de velopment in most of the other arts of civilisation, Eussia and the Scandinavian kingdoms have exhibited an earnest desire to avail themselves of the advantages of the most enlightened treatment.
The Care and Treatment of the Insane in Germany
Authors: Griesinger W.
Published: August 2008

I have been frequently obliged to give expression to my views on asylums and their future organisation. These views are expressed in official documents and private letters, which have never been published. A few observations which I made cursorily at the Naturforscher-Versammlung, in Hanover (“Zeitschr. f. Psychiatrie, “XXII., p. 390), as an indication of my point of view, were much too briefly and aphoristically given not to be subject to misconception. I therefore propose to devote the following pages to a connected, though necessarily brief, explanation of what I believe to be necessary or advantageous in the immediate future arrangement of lunacy matters in Germany, and to indicate towards which side I lean in the undoubted crisis which the question of the public provision for the insane has now reached. I apprehend neither detriment nor danger in this crisis, which is merely the progress towards more complete organisation. To wish to ignore it would not improve the matter. The predetermined conclusion to see the only good and right possible in things as they now exist is a far greater hindrance to the discovery of truth. If science can present new points of view, if urgent wants are brought to light, which cannot be satisfied by the present means of publicly providing for the insane, the requirements must not, in such circumstances, be ignored or denied, but the means must be made to suit the necessities. It was in this way that things were treated when the present asylums were founded; and is it possible that at the present time no further advance can be made ? It is, however, to be remarked, as was said a few years ago by Damerow, who was for the most part an authority with the opponents of reform (“Zeit-schr. f. Psychiatrie, “XIX., 1862, p. 187), “There is nothing further to be obtained in the future with the present public institutions for the cure and care of the insane.”
On the Antiquity of General Paralysis
Authors: Shaw T. Claye
Published: August 2008

Shakespeare has used the character of “Achilles” to pourtray in vivid language his own conception of a malady of the mind which modern pathologists choosing to consider have made familiar to us under the term of “General Paralysis.” Doubtless, the recognition of this as a distinct phase of insanity necessitating confinement in an asylum dates from comparatively recent times, but Shakespeare not only remarked and described the chief symptoms, but also noted them as constituting a disease of the mind, though probably he would not have classed those so afflicted with the rest of “Bedlam Beggars.”.
I. German Psychological Literature
Authors: Sibbald John
Published: August 2008

The volume of the Irrenfrennd commences with an article on the writing of the insane. The following conclusions are quoted from a pamphlet by Dr. Th. Güntz :— “1. The writing of the insane exhibits various deviations from what is normal, both as regards quantity and quality. 2. These deviations are important in so far as they frequently give the first indication of the commencement of insanity. 3. They often give the best key to the aetiology, genesis, and duration of the disease. 4. They frequently complete or correct our conception of the nature of the disease. 5. They furnish a certain test of the advent and progress of convalescence.”
On Certain Nervous Affections of Old Persons
Authors: Anstie Francis E. , Anstie Francis E.
Published: August 2008

In the present paper I do not intend to deal with those graver affections, such as apoplexy or paralysis, which frequently occur in the aged, and which depend on gross lesions of tissue. Nor shall I mention the severe and intractable neuralgias of advanced life. I desire to direct attention to a class of neuroses, which more or less inevitably attend the decline of life, and which, though they do not involve any serious catastrophe, are the cause of so much suffering that it is surprising that they should have received little or no systematic notice from medical writers. The neglect of these complaints is not merely a negative evil; for, owing to the fact that their neurotic nature is ignored, certain superficial symptoms which they present are treated as if they depended on functional disturbance of the liver, or ordinary stomach catarrh, &c., and very often with depressing remedies, which greatly aggravate the existing evil.
Two Cases of Atheroma of the Blood Vessels at the Base of the Brain, with Remarks upon the Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Pathological Condition in that Affection
Authors: Sabben J. T.
Published: August 2008

In publishing the following cases, recently under my charge, of mental derangement dependent upon atheromatous deposit in the coats of the larger cerebral arteries, without any apparent disease of the brain substance, I desire, if possible, to define the symptoms of that condition during life, so as to enable them to be distinguished from those of general paralysis, with which I believe them often to be confused.
Illustrations of the Influence of the Mind upon the Body in Health and Disease, with especial reference to the Imagination
Authors: Tuke Daniel H.
Published: August 2008

(II.) The Emotions act upon the Heart and non-striated muscles with a power equal to, if not greater than, that which they exercise over the voluntary or striated muscles; causing contraction, spasm, and paralysis.
Statistics of Pauper Insanity
Authors: Boyd R.
Published: August 2008

At the last annual meeting of the Medico-Psychological Association, held at the College of Physicians, London, in July, 1870, I brought forward a resolution which, after full discussion, was amended and agreed to, in these terms:— “That it is desirable to facilitate the early admission of all acute cases of pauper insanity into county (and borough) asylums, by providing for the proper care and treatment of chronic and harmless cases elsewhere.” The object of the resolution being to ensure for acute cases that prompt treatment which is so essential, and to prevent the overcrowding and overgrowth of asylums, by providing for the transfer of incurable and harmless cases to workhouses, or to lodgings, or to reside with relatives, under proper care, treatment, and supervision. In the absence of any such provision, the enlargement of asylums progresses—this will be shown by the returns of the increase of pauper insanity in England and Wales. Several institutions have attained such dimensions that the difficulty of proper management has become great. In such overgrown establishments the individuality of the curable patient is liable to become lost amongst the crowd of idiots and incurables. The delay in obtaining the forms required by the Lunacy Acts, prior to the admission of insane patients to pauper asylums, is a great hindrance to early treatment. As regards chronic cases, this delay is of little consequence, and from the comforts being greater in the asylum than in the workhouse infirmary, and it being to the interest of workhouse officials to send insane paupers to the asylum, the accumulation of chronic and incurable cases therein can easily be accounted for.
Lunacy Legislation in New Zealand
Authors: Lindsay W. Lauder
Published: August 2008

Some months ago, in an article on “Colonial Lunacy Boards,” [in the number of the “Edinburgh Medical Journal” for March, 1872,] I had occasion to announce that the New Zealand Government had put upon paper certain “Resolutions” regarding Lunacy-Reform in the Colony, including a proposal forthwith to appoint at least one Commissioner in Lunacy, who should act as adviser to Government in all Lunacy matters, as well as supervise all the Lunatic Asylums of the Colony. I expressed a fear that the intentions apparently embodied in the said resolutions were “too good news to be true,” and that they would prove but formal suggestions—to be laid upon the table of the House of Assembly, there to remain [shelved] for an indefinite period, just as similar proposals for Lunacy Reform have been treated in the sister colony of New South Wales. Unfortunately for the insane, and for the Lunatic Hospitals, of New Zealand, my surmises have proved to be only too correct —my fears only too well founded. By the August mail (1872) I received two letters from tne Honourable Dr. Buchanan, of Dunedin, Member of the Legislative Council, and mover of the Parliamentary Resolutions above referred to. That the proposals which these resolutions contained, have not yet been adopted, is certainly no fault of his; for of his hearty interest and honest intention in the matter there can be no question. In his letters he gives the following most unsatisfactory account of the present state of affairs in New Zealand in regard to Lunacy Progress or Reform—a state of affairs which I quite agree with him in considering discreditable and disgraceful to its reputation as a British Colony!
On Larceny, as committed by Patients in the earlier stages of General Paralysis
Authors: Burman J. Wilkie
Published: August 2008

Having recently admitted into the West Riding Asylum no less than three general paralytics, who either came from prison, or had undergone imprisonment not long previous to admission, on account of the commission of larceny; and being of opinion, considering the stage at which, in each case, the disease had arrived on admission, that its commencement must have dated prior to the commission of the crime;—I have been led to make further enquiry as to these and other similar cases which have occurred within the experience and recollection of the present medical officers of the West Riding Asylum. The result is, that I am now enabled, by the kind permission of Dr. Crichton Browne, to record short details of six cases of general paralysis, all males, and admitted during the last four years, in which it appears to me the commission of the crime was a manifestation of the earlier mental symptoms of the disease. Such being the case, the patients ought not to have been held responsible for their actions. I feel it, therefore, a duty, to call the attention of medical officers of prisons, and “all whom it may concern,” to these facts, and to urge upon them the necessity of instituting a more searching enquiry into the mental condition of such cases, and also of cultivating a more extended acquaintance with the symptoms—especially the earlier ones—both mental and physical, of that very common and peculiar disease usually termed “general paralysis of the insane;” and this I would do in no dictatorial spirit, for I am well assured that those to whom my remarks are addressed are susceptible to the influence of that humane sentiment which leads us to shrink from inflicting punishment for crime committed by persons who are of unsound mind and consequently not legally responsible for their actions.
Address on Idiocy
Authors: Bucknill John Charles
Published: August 2008

My Lord Leigh and Gentlemen,—Your presence here so far shews your interest in the subject on which I have had the honour to be called upon to address you, that I have confidence you will extend to me your patient attention while I enter into details which may not at first seem to be attractive except to medical men.
The Morbid Psychology of Criminals
Authors: Nicolson David
Published: August 2008

The inner world of prison life is one of the best fields for the study of psychological questions, speculative as well as practical If the circumstances are somewhat exceptional, they have the special advantage of being uniform in their application; and this uniformity represents a standard to which individual minds, or particular groups of mind, bear a relation, and at which they may be tested. Imprisonment is the very antithesis of social usage, an involuntary servitude taking the place of the liberty of the subject, and it is surely a matter of no little interest to watch how social beings, varying in moral and intellectual status, bear themselves under confinement and a complete change in their circumstances and surroundings.
Neuralgia and Kindred Diseases of the Nervous System
Authors: Chapman John , Churchill J. , Churchill A.
Published: August 2008

In the January number of this Journal for 1872 Dr. Anstie's book on Neuralgia was reviewed, and now we have a larger volume on the same subject by Dr. Chapman. Dr. Anstie put forward the theory that the disease means weakness of the body, and especially anæmia and atrophy of certain nerve centres in the brain; Dr. Chapman thinks it has but little to do with weakened vitality, and results from hyperæmia of the nerve centres. Anstie says the general health of nearly all his patients was bad; Chapman avers that neuralgic patients “live on often to a ripe old age, the term of their existence not being appreciably shortened by the disease.” Anstie thinks it is a very hereditary disease indeed; Chapman does not think it very often so transmitted. The former treats it by all sorts of nutritive and tonic means; the latter treats it by “spinal ice bags.” But we shall allow Dr. Chapman to state his own theory on the whole subject.
The Medico-Psychological Association. the President's Address for 1873
Authors: Tuke T. Harrington
Published: August 2008

Gentlemen,—I must again express my deep sense of the distinction conferred upon me in my election as your President. It is a great honour to occupy a place which has been held by so many eminent men, masters in mental philosophy, distinguished in science, and in literature, taken in its wider sense, as well as in that strictly medical. I am fully conscious of inability to follow them with equal steps, but supported by some of you, whom I am privileged to call my friends, and by many other valued associates, I venture to hope that your interests will not suffer in my hands. I say this, reckoning confidently on the ready help which the less advanced among us have always received from the honoured heads of our Association; one, especially, is present to my mind, by whose friendly encouragement many probationers have been induced to put forth their powers for the advancement of mental science. Distinguished in medicine, in science, and in general literature, the Founder of our Journal, and as its Editor for many years, ever courteous, considerate, and just, no one has done more for the best and highest interests and objects of this Association, than our esteemed colleague and former President, Dr. Bucknill.
Antiquarian Scraps Relating to Insanity
Authors: McDowall T. W.
Published: August 2008

Some time ago I employed my leisure in hunting up all facts which might throw some light on the condition of lunatics in Great Britain in former times. In my then position it was extremely difficult to obtain access to the class of books most likely to yield me the information desired, but from such as did fall in my way all matter of the least value for my purpose was excised. The labour connected with this pursuit was much greater than most might be inclined to credit, and some men of a utilitarian frame of mind may be inclined to believe that labour on such a subject was wasted, and might have been much more profitably expended on other branches of research.
The Morbid Psychology of Criminals
Authors: Nicolson David
Published: August 2008

Emotional Display in Prisoners.—In proceeding with, our investigation into the rationale of their angry and destructive outbursts, it will be necessary for us to keep in view the exceptional circumstances in which prisoners are placed, and the fact that their passionate demonstrations are frequently but repetitions of the same series of acts in consequence of the limited scope of action afforded by prison life. The readiness with which such emotional conditions are stirred up, and the extravagant results to which they lead, are among the best evidences of mental inferiority among criminals as a class. Indeed, wherever we find such a relative want of proportion and adjustment between states of feeling and their cause on the one hand, and states of outward activity and their consequences on the other, we must look upon it as an indication of inferiority.