bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of cataclastic rocks from a drill core and outcrops of the Nojima Fault zone on Awaji Island, Japan
Authors: Lin Aiming , Shimamoto Toshihiko , Maruyama Tadashi , Sigetomi Motoko , Miyata Takao , Takemura Keiji , Tanaka Hidemi , Uda Shinichi , Murata Akihiro
Published: August 2010

Abstract Cataclastic rocks found in the Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University (DPRI) 500 m drill core and outcrops along the Nojima Fault zone on Awaji Island, southwest Japan, were examined at mesoscopic and microscopic scales. The damaged zone of this fault in granitic rocks, observed on the southeast side of the fault, is 50–60 m wide and is composed of fractured host rocks and cataclastic rocks including cataclasite, fault breccia, and fault gouge. The fault breccia and gouge of small scales are scattered in the damaged zone. Fault core (zone of extremely concentrated shearing deformation along a fault) consists of fault gouge measuring several tens to approximately 150 mm in width, as recognized both in the drill core and at outcrops of the Nojima Fault along which surface ruptures formed during the 1995 Kobe earthquake. Fault breccia, measuring a few meters wide, has developed pervasively in the damaged zone, just next to the fault core. Pseudotachylyte has been found interlayered with fault gouge within the fault core only at outcrops at Hirabarashi, not in the DPRI 500 m core. Petrological studies and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis show that the pseudotachylyte and fault gouge are composed mainly of fine‐grained angular clasts of the host granitic rocks, suggesting the pseudotachylyte is of ‘crush origin’. Foliated cataclasite is characterized by the preferred orientation of elongated biotite clasts and granular aggregates of quartz and feldspar clasts, and by the development of cataclastic shear bands. Unlike cataclastically deformed quartz and feldspar in the cataclasite, biotite in the foliated cataclasite shows combinations of brittle and plastic deformation, such as biotite ‘fish’, cleavage steps, bending and kinking. These textures suggest that the foliated cataclasite formed at a deeper level than the cataclasite, fault breccia and gouge, possibly before the Quaternary period during which the Nojima Fault has moved as a dextral strike–slip fault with some reverse movement resulting in the uplifting of Awaji Island. Examination of fault rocks from surface outcrops can yield similar results to those obtained from drill cores with regard to the internal structures of a fault zone.
Deformation mechanisms and fluid behavior in a shallow, brittle fault zone during coseismic and interseismic periods: Results from drill core penetrating the Nojima Fault, Japan
Authors: Tanaka Hidemi , Hinoki Shin‐Ichiro , Kosaka Kazuo , Lin Aiming , Takemura Keiji , Murata Akihiro , Miyata Takao
Published: August 2010

Abstract This paper describes the results of petrographical and meso‐ to microstructural observations of brittle fault rocks in cores obtained by drilling through the Nojima Fault at a drilling depth of 389.52 m. The zonation of deformation and alteration in the central zone of the fault is clearly seen in cores of granite from the hanging wall, in the following order: (i) host rock, which is characterized by some intragranular microcracks and in situ alteration of mafic minerals and feldspars; (ii) weakly deformed and altered rocks, which are characterized by transgranular cracks and the dissolution of mafic minerals, and by the precipitation of zeolites and iron hydroxide materials; (iii) random fabric fault breccia, which is characterized by fragmentation, by anastomosing networks of transgranular cracks, and by the precipitation of zeolites and iron hydroxide materials; and (iv) fault gouge, which is characterized by the precipitation of smectite and localized cataclastic flow. This zonation implies that the fault has been weakened gradually by fluid‐related fracturing over time. In the footwall, a gouge layer measuring only 15 mm thick is present just below the surface of the Nojima Fault. These observations are the basis for a model of fluid behavior along the Nojima Fault. The model invokes the percolation of meteoric fluids through cracks in the hanging wall fault zone during interseismic periods, resulting in chemical reactions in the fault gouge layer to form smectite. The low permeability clay‐rich gouge layer sealed the footwall. The fault gouge was brecciated during coseismic or postseismic periods, breaking the seal and allowing fluids to readily flow into the footwall, thus causing a slight alteration. Chemical reactions between fluids and the fault breccia and gouge generated new fault gouge, which resealed the footwall, resulting in a low fluid condition in the footwall during interseismic periods.
Internal structure of the Nojima Fault zone from the Hirabayashi GSJ drill core
Authors: Ohtani Tomoyuki , Tanaka Hidemi , Fujimoto Koichiro , Higuchi Takayuki , Tomida Naoto , Ito Hisao
Published: August 2010

Abstract The internal structures of the Nojima Fault, south‐west Japan, are examined from mesoscopic observations of continuous core samples from the Hirabayashi Geological Survey of Japan (GSJ) drilling. The drilling penetrated the central part of the Nojima Fault, which ruptured during the 1995 Kobe earthquake (Hyogo‐ken Nanbu earthquake) (M7.2). It intersected a 0.3 m‐thick layer of fault gouge, which is presumed to constitute the fault core (defined as a narrow zone of extremely concentrated deformation) of the Nojima Fault Zone. The rocks obtained from the Hirabayashi GSJ drilling were divided into five types based on the intensities of deformation and alteration: host rock, weakly deformed and altered granodiorite, fault breccia, cataclasite, and fault gouge. Weakly deformed and altered granodiorite is distributed widely in the fault zone. Fault breccia appears mostly just above the fault core. Cataclasite is distributed mainly in a narrow (≈1 m wide) zone in between the fault core and a smaller gouge zone encountered lower down from the drilling. Fault gouge in the fault core is divided into three types based on their color and textures. From their cross‐cutting relationships and vein development, the lowest fault gouge in the fault core is judged to be newer than the other two. The fault zone characterized by the deformation and alteration is assumed to be deeper than 426.2 m and its net thickness is > 46.5 m. The fault rocks in the hanging wall (above the fault core) are deformed and altered more intensely than those in the footwall (below the fault core). Furthermore, the intensities of deformation and alteration increase progressively towards the fault core in the hanging wall, but not in the footwall. The difference in the fault rock distribution between the hanging wall and the footwall might be related to the offset of the Nojima Fault and/or the asymmetrical ground motion during earthquakes.
Alteration and mass transfer inferred from the Hirabayashi GSJ drill penetrating the Nojima Fault, Japan
Authors: Fujimoto Koichiro , Tanaka Hidemi , Higuchi Takayuki , Tomida Naoto , Ohtani Tomoyuki , Ito Hisao
Published: August 2010

Abstract Mineralogical and geochemical studies on the fault rocks from the Nojima–Hirabayashi borehole, south‐west Japan, are performed to clarify the alteration and mass transfer in the Nojima Fault Zone at shallow depths. A complete sequence from the hornblende–biotite granodiorite protolith to the fault core can be observed without serious disorganization by surface weathering. The parts deeper than 426.2 m are in the fault zone where rocks have suffered fault‐related deformation and alteration. Characteristic alteration minerals in the fault zone are smectite, zeolites (laumontite, stilbite), and carbonate minerals (calcite and siderite). It is inferred that laumontite veins formed at temperatures higher than approximately 100°C during the fault activity. A reverse component in the movement of the Nojima Fault influences the distribution of zeolites. Zeolite is the main sealing mineral in relatively deep parts, whereas carbonate is the main sealing mineral at shallower depths. Several shear zones are recognized in the fault zone. Intense alteration is localized in the gouge zones. Rock chemistry changes in a different manner between different shear zones in the fault zone. The main shear zone (MSZ), which corresponds to the core of the Nojima Fault, shows increased concentration of most elements except Si, Al, Na, and K. However, a lower shear zone (LSZ‐2), which is characterized by intense alteration rather than cataclastic deformation, shows a decreased concentration of most elements including Ti and Zr. A simple volume change analysis based on Ti and Zr immobility, commonly used to examine the changes in fault rock chemistry, cannot account fully for the different behaviors of Ti and Zr among the two gouge zones.
Distribution of fault rocks in the fracture zone of the Nojima Fault at a depth of 1140 m: Observations from the Hirabayashi NIED drill core
Authors: Kobayashi Kenta , Hirano Satoshi , Arai Takashi , Ikeda Ryuji , Omura Kentaro , Sano Hiroyuki , Sawaguchi Takashi , Tanaka Hidemi , Tomita Tomoaki , Tomida Naoto , Matsuda Tatsuo , Yamazaki Akiko
Published: August 2010

AbstractCharacteristics of deformation and alteration of the 1140 m deep fracture zone of the Nojima Fault are described based on mesoscopic (to the naked eye) and microscopic (by both optical and scanning electron microscopes) observations of the Hirabayashi National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention (NIED) drill core. Three types of fault rocks; that is, fault breccia, fault gouge and cataclasite, appear in the central part of the fault zone and two types of weakly deformed and/or altered rocks; that is, weakly deformed and altered granodiorite and altered granodiorite, are located in the outside of the central part of the fault zone (damaged zone). Cataclasite appears occasionally in the damaged zone. Six distinct, thin foliated fault gouge zones, which dip to the south‐east, appear clearly in the very central part of the fracture zone. Slickenlines plunging to the north‐east are observed on the surface of the newest gouge. Based on the observations of XZ thin sections, these slickenlines and the newest gouge have the same kinematics as the 1995 Hyogo‐ken Nanbu earthquake (Kobe earthquake), which was dextral‐reverse slip. Scanning electron microscopy observations of the freeze‐dried fault gouge show that a large amount of void space is maintained locally, which might play an important role as a path for fluid migration and the existence of either heterogeneity of pore fluid pressure or strain localization.
Hardened foliated fault gouge from the Nojima Fault zone at Hirabayashi: Evidence for earthquake lightning accompanying the 1995 Kobe earthquake?
Authors: Enomoto Yuji , Asuke Fumio , Zheng Zhong , Ishigaki Hiroyuki
Published: August 2010

Abstract Two anomalous features were found in the Nojima Fault zone at Hirabayashi in Awaji Island, south‐west Japan: (i) hard foliated gouge between weathered granitic fault breccia and weakly consolidated mudstone of the Osaka Group; and (ii) mudstone near the gouge showing anomalous magnetization behavior. Roots of herbaceous vegetation near the foliated gouge were extraordinarily charred. In order to understand the nature of the gouge, shallow drillings were made to a depth of 3–14 m across the fault zone. Various physicochemical measurements of the gouge at depths and charred roots of herbaceous vegetation were conducted. The main results were: (i) Using electron spin resonance (ESR) analysis, the carbon radical peak (g = 2.006) of the charred roots was found to be 25 times larger than that of the non‐charred roots of the same vegetation taken near the fault, indicating that the charred roots were subjected to baking; (ii) the hard foliated gouge clearly showed a lamellar structure consisting alternately of gray and black layers; (iii) the black layers in most of the foliated gouge showed flow structures almost parallel to the fault, but the gray layers rarely showed flow patterns; (iv) natural remanent magnetization (NRM) of the foliated gouge was 430 times greater than that of the granitic fault breccia and approximately 70 times greater than that of the mudstone; (v) the NRM intensity of the mudstone near the fault was highest near the ground level and decreased as the depth increased, although the magnetic susceptibility of the mudstone was almost constant and independent of depth; (vi) the high‐coercivity magnetization component vectors of both the mudstone and the foliated gouge in a Schmidt equal‐area projection was quite different from that of the present direction of the Earth’s field; and (vii) using a magnetic force microscope, intense magnetic force lines were found in the black parts of the foliated gouge. It is suggested that these anomalies were possibly caused by earthquake lightning that accompanied the 1995 Kobe earthquake. In a spark plasma sintering test, which was conducted to simulate the possibility of earthquake lightning‐induced sintering of the gouge, weakly altered gouge was successfully sintered within 10 s. The hardness of sintered sample was comparable to that of the hard foliated gouge.
Changes in magnetic and fractal properties of fractured granites near the Nojima Fault, Japan
Authors: Nakamura Norihiro , Nagahama Hiroyuki
Published: August 2010

Abstract Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) has been used to infer finite strain fabrics in plastically deformed rocks, but there are few studies of magnetic properties in fractured fault rocks. Changes in magnetic and fractal properties of fractured granites from the Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University (DPRI) 500 m drilling core towards the Nojima Fault and of the well‐foliated fault gouge are described. Fractal analysis of fractured granites shows that the fractal dimension (D) increases linearly toward the gouge zone of the fault. In weakly fractured granites (D = 1.05–1.24), it was found that the degree of AMS correlates positively with the fractal dimension, suggesting a fracture‐related magnetic fabric due to fracturing. In strongly fractured granites (D = 1.25–1.50), weaker, nearly isotropic AMS is found, suggesting erasure by the fragmentation of the magnetic minerals. Within the fault gouge zone, an isotropic AMS fabric was found, as well as twofold increases in magnetic intensity and susceptibility. These changes reflect the production of new magnetite grains, subsequently confirmed by hysteresis studies, which suggests that fault gouge might be regarded as the source of the regional geomagnetic field contrast along active faults. Thus, AMS is clearly a potentially useful tool for inferring the fracturing texture of magnetic minerals in fractured rocks and detecting active faults from the high susceptibility contrast of fault gouge.
Paleostress orientation from 3‐D orientation distribution of microcracks in quartz from the Cretaceous granodiorite core samples drilled through the Nojima Fault, south‐west Japan
Authors: Takeshita Toru , Yagi Koshi
Published: August 2010

Abstract The orientations of both healed extension microcracks and microcracks in quartz grains sealed mostly by carbonate minerals were measured from Cretaceous granodiorite core samples drilled along the Nojima Fault, southwest Japan. The preferred orientations of both healed and sealed microcracks consist of approximately three orthogonal sets, (components) A, B and C, in which A strikes NS–NW‐SE and dips vertically, B strikes EW–NE‐SW and dips vertically, and C is subhorizontal. Both the healed and sealed microcracks were possibly formed by hydraulic fracturing, and the successive release of tensile stress due to pore fluid overpressure in the principal stress directions could have caused this microcracking in mutually orthogonal directions. The quartz grains are also very moderately plastically deformed, which is indicated by the occurrence of kink bands and undulose extinction. The association of healed microcracks and kink bands in the quartz suggests that these microstructures formed under subgreenschist facies conditions (≈300°C) during hydrothermal activity that could have occurred immediately after the emplacement of granodiorite during the Late Cretaceous period. Based on both the preferred orientation of microcracks, and c‐axis fabrics of kinked and unkinked grains (so called kink method), it is inferred that the σ1‐and σ3‐axis were oriented horizontally in NS–NW‐SE and EW–NE‐SW directions, respectively. The inferred paleostress field does not conform to the east–west‐trending compression during the Quaternary period, but to the activation of EW–NE‐SW‐trending, left–lateral strike–slip faults during the Late Cretaceous period in southwest Japan.
Geological and geophysical studies of the Nojima Fault from drilling: An outline of the Nojima Fault Zone Probe
Authors: Ando Masataka
Published: August 2010

Abstract The Nojima Fault Zone Probe was designed to study the properties and recovery processes of the Nojima Fault, which moved during the Hyogo‐ken Nanbu earthquake (MJMA7.2) of 1995. Three holes, 500 m, 800 m and 1800 m deep, were drilled into or near the fault zone by the Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University. The 500 m and 800 m holes were drilled in November 1995, and in December 1996 the last hole reached its final depth of 1760 m. The significant results are: (i) Geological and geophysical reconstruction of the structure and evolution of the Nojima Fault was obtained; (ii) the maximum compression axis was found to be perpendicular to the fault, approximately 45° to the regional compression stress axis; (iii) micro‐earthquakes (m = –2 to +1) were induced by water injections 1–3 km from the injection points in the 1800 m hole; (iv) the fault zone was measured to be 30 m wide from microscopic studies of core samples. Instruments such as three‐component seismometers, crustal deformation instruments, and thermometers were installed in the holes.
‘Thailand was a desert' during the mid‐Cretaceous: Equatorward shift of the subtropical high‐pressure belt indicated by eolian deposits (Phu Thok Formation) in the Khorat Basin, northeastern Thailand
Authors: Hasegawa Hitoshi , Imsamut Suvapak , Charusiri Punya , Tada Ryuji , Horiuchi Yu , Hisada Ken‐Ichiro
Published: August 2010

The Tibetan Plateau is a key factor in controlling the present‐day climate and atmospheric circulation pattern in Asia. The pattern of atmospheric circulation after the uplift of the plateau is well known, whereas direct evidence is lacking regarding the nature of the circulation pattern prior to the uplift. The distribution of desert directly reflects the position of the subtropical high‐pressure belt, and the prevailing surface‐wind pattern recorded in desert deposits reveals the position of its divergence axis. Cretaceous eolian sandstone of the Phu Thok Formation is extensively exposed in the northern Khorat Basin, northeastern Thailand. We conducted a sedimentological study on this formation to reconstruct temporal changes in the latitude of the subtropical high‐pressure belt in low‐latitude Asia during the Cretaceous. Spatio‐temporal changes in the paleo‐wind directions recorded in the Phu Thok Formation reveal that the Khorat Basin mainly belonged to the northeast trade wind belt and subtropical high‐pressure belt was situated to the north of the Khorat Basin during the initial stages of deposition, shifted southward to immediately above the basin during the main phase of deposition, and then shifted northward again to the north of the basin during the final stages of deposition. The paleomagnetic polarity sequence obtained for the Phu Thok Formation comprises three zones of normal polarity and two of reversed polarity, correlating to chrons M1n to C34n of the geomagnetic polarity time scale. This result suggests that the Phu Thok Formation is mid‐Cretaceous in age (from c. 126 Ma to c. 99–93 Ma), similar to the age of eolian sandstone in the Sichuan Basin, southern China (the Jiaguan Formation). These results, in combination with paleo‐wind direction data, suggest the development of low‐latitude desert and an equatorward shift of the subtropical high‐pressure belt (relative to the present‐day) in Asia during the mid‐Cretaceous.
Use of multidetector computed tomography for evaluating coronary artery disease in patients undergoing dialysis
Authors: PARK MOO YONG , CHOI SOO JEONG , KIM JIN KUK , HWANG SEUNG DUK , SUH JON , SEO HYE SUN , KIM DONG HUN
Published: August 2010

Aim:  Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in patients undergoing dialysis. The accuracy of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) for detecting coronary disease has not been determined, and little information is available regarding the performance of MDCT in patients undergoing dialysis.

Methods:  Twenty‐nine patients undergoing dialysis were analyzed and MDCT and coronary angiography (CAng) were performed consecutively. The coronary arteries were divided into four segments for analysis. We compared the significant stenosis lesions (≥50% luminal narrowing) identified by MDCT with those found by CAng. The total coronary artery calcium (CAC) score was determined by summing the individual lesion scores from each of the coronary branches.

Results:  One hundred and sixteen coronary artery branches in 29 patients were analyzed. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of MDCT for detecting significant coronary artery stenosis (≥50% stenosis) were 68%, 94%, 71% and 93%, respectively. The CAC scores were significantly higher in subjects with coronary artery disease (CAD) (514.0 ± 493.6 vs 254.3 ± 375.3, P = 0.05). The severe CAC score (>500) was related to the presence of significant CAD (P = 0.05) and the sensitivity and specificity for detecting significant CAD were 50% and 80%, respectively.

Conclusion:  MDCT is a useful and non‐invasive approach for detecting or excluding CAD in patients undergoing dialysis.
The Narcissism and Death of Yukio Mishima –From the Object Relational Point of View–
Authors: Ushijima Sadanobu
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The author discussed the life and work of Yukio Mishima from the object relational point of view. First, he described his brief life history, pointing out the four big identity crises in his life as his fierce struggles against the suicidal wishes were likely to enlarge within himself.

Then, he suggested that Mishima had been in the state of part object relationship throughout his life. Thirdly, the important ro'e of the body or bodies in his fantastic and real life was discussed as a manifestation of not merely autoerotic activities but also disturbances of the core of identity. Finally, the fragility of the intermediate area of experience which was thought to have eventually led him to the last action, the seppuku, was examined.
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate and Sleep Apnea
Authors: Ohshima Hiroharu
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Seven patients with sleep apnea DOES and one with sleep apnea DIMS were treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). The therapeutic effect was confirmed in most of them by polysomnographic recording. A marked increase of TST was observed in two patients whose AI and/or %SAT remarkably decreased. Contrarily, three patients exhibited a considerable decrease in TST, and AI and/or %SAT were reduced remarkably in two of them with MPA. After the MPA medication a few patients complained of disturbed nocturnal sleep. A significant positive correlation was observed between the decreased rate of TST and that of the mean duration of apneas. From these results, it was considered that MPA has a mild activating action on the arousal system in the CNS, and that the action may be partly responsible for the therapeutic effects of MPA on sleep apneas.
A Case of Chronic Subdural Hematoma with Anxiety States and Concomitant Regression‐Like Symptoms
Authors: Sato Takeshi , Takeichi Masashi
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The authors described an epileptic suffering from head trauma in whom anxiety states and concomitant regression‐like symptoms masked the diagnosis of chronic subdural hematoma. Along with the occurrence of chronic subdural hematoma, psychic symptoms were manifested including the anxiety and regression of personality. However, after the chronic subdural hematoma was neurosurgically evacuated, these psychic symptoms gradually disappeared.

In the study of organic and symptomatic psychosis, Mackenzie and Popkin (1983) have proposed the concept of an organic anxiety syndrome on the ground that DSM‐III provides no organic equivalent for anxiety disorders. Therefore, we presented a case of chronic subdural hematoma in which the direct effect on CNS of this pathological condition was considered to bring about the above‐mentioned anxiety disorders with regression‐like symptoms.
Noradrenergic Function and the Dexamethasone Suppression Test in Depression
Authors: Morinobu Shigeru , Satoh Hiroshi , Endoh Masao , Totsuka Shirou
Published: August 2010

Abstract: We measured the plasma free 3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) levels and the serum Cortisol levels before and after the oral administration of dexamethasone.

There was a significant positive correlation between the plasma MHPG levels and postdexamethasone Cortisol levels in patients with major depression. This indicates that there exists a certain relation between abnormalities of the central noradrenergic systems and hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis in patients with major depression.
Acute Effect of TRH, Fhmarizine, Lithium and Zotepine on Amygdaloid Kindled Seizures Induced with Low‐Frequency Stimulation
Authors: Minabe Yoshio , Tanii Yasuyuki , Tsunoda Masahiko , Kurachi Masayoshi
Published: August 2010

Abstract: We assessed the acute effects of various drugs on amygdaloid kindled seizures induced with low‐frequency stimulations. We used the number of stimulating pulses required for the induction of epileptic afterdischarge (pulse‐number threshold; PNT) as an indicator of the seizure generating threshold and the duration of induced seizures (AD duration; ADD) as an indicator of the seizures. TRH increased the PNT without affecting the ADD at a high dose (1.2 mg/kg). Flunarizine decreased the PNT and ADD simultaneously at a high dose (50 mg/kg). Lithium increased the PNT without affecting the ADD at two doses (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg). Zotepine decreased the PNT without affecting the ADD at two doses (8 mg/kg, 16 mg/kg). We propose that the technique of low‐frequency kindling is a useful experimental model in assessing the effects of antipsychotic or antiepileptic drugs on the excitability of the limbic regions.
Bioavailability of a Film‐Coated Tablet of Valproate in Nonfasting Volunteers
Authors: Ishikawa Tatsuya , Horie Masayo , Furuyama Miwako , Ohuchi Masanobu , Awaya Atsuko , Sobajima Hisanori , Suchi Mariko , Yamaguchi Atsuko , Okajima Kazuki , Wanibe Masahiko
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The bioavailability of a film‐coated tablet of valproate (VPA) in nonfasting volunteers was studied. Ten healthy adults received a single 200 mg (mean 3.55 mg/kg) film‐coated tablet, 15 minutes after breakfast. Venous blood was then taken at regular intervals of up to 4 or 7 hours after the dosage, and the serum VPA concentrations were determined by means of a fluorescence polarization immunoassay. VPA was slowly absorbed with the peak concentrations occurring 1.5 to 4 hours after the administration. The mean concentration (Cmax) and extent of absorption (area under the concentration‐time curve) between 1 and 4 hours were 22.2 μ/ml and 59.3 μtg‐h/ml, respectively. It was concluded that Cmax with a film‐coated tablet of VPA can be detected if blood is taken at around 3 hours after the dosage under nonfasting conditions.
Wilson's Disease with Extensive Degeneration of Cerebral White Matter and Cortex
Authors: Shimoji Akitomo , Miyakawa Taihei , Watanabe Kenjiro , Yamashita Kensyo , Katsuragi Shoichi , Kabashima Keikichi
Published: August 2010

Abstract: This is a report of an autopsy case of Wilson's disease with widespread degeneration of the cerebral cortex and white matter, the basal ganglia and thalamus and, to a lesser degree, the cerebellum and brain stem. The patient was a 28‐year‐old man at the time of death with the clinical course of a 20‐year duration.

The lesions consisted of spongy degeneration leading to a cavity formation with insufficient glia fiber proliferation. We noted the characteristic findings of Alzheimer glia (Types I and II) and Opalski cells and the new formation in capillaries.

The distribution of the changes in the hemispheres showed the typical pattern with a tendency of preferential superior and anterior localization and a relative preservation of the hippocampal formation, carcarine areas, amygdaloid nuclei and the hypothalamus.

Similar cases in the literature were reviewed.
Lp(a) Lipoprotein in Cerebrovascular Disease and Dementia
Authors: Urakami Katsuya , Mura Tetsuo , Takahashi Kazuro
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Lp(a) lipoprotein has been considered an independent risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease (CHD). We examined the role of Lp(a) in patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and those with dementia.

The Lp(a) concentration in patients with CHD, those with cerebral infarction due to a large artery occlusion and those with vascular dementia (VD) was significantly higher than that of age‐matched control subjects. However, the Lp(a) concentration was not high in cerebral infarction due to a small artery occlusion, intracerebral hemorrhage and dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT).

The present results suggest that Lp(a) should cause VD as well as CVD, and that Lp(a) should be one of the indicators that distinguish VD from DAT.
Neurochemical Effects Following AF64A Injection into the Basal Nuclei of Rats
Authors: Yoshimura Koichi , Yamashita Motoshi , Okano Toshie , Ikeda Hisao
Published: August 2010

Abstract:AF64A, a specific cholinergic neurotoxin, was injected into the basal nuclei of rats. The injected sites were the bilateral nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) and the medial septal nucleus (MSN), well known to be the nuclei of origin of the two major cholinergic pathways. The remote effects of injection were estimated by the regional choline acetyltransferase (CAT) activity in the frontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus. The injection of AF64A (1 nmol in 1 ul) produced a reduction in the CAT activity in each projected site: NBM lesions in the frontal cortex and MSN lesions in the hippocampus after one and three weeks. Twelve weeks after the injection, the reduced CAT activity had returned to normal levels. This neurochemical effect shows plasticity and recovery with time. The injections of small amounts of AF64A (0.2 and 0.1 nmol in 1 μl) produced no chemical changes after one week.
Involvement of the 3′ non‐coding region of the mu opioid receptor gene in morphine‐induced analgesia
Authors: KASAI SHINYA , HAN WENHUA , IDE SOICHIRO , HATA HARUMI , TAKAMATSU YUKIO , YAMAMOTO HIDEKO , UHL GEORGE R. , SORA ICHIRO , IKEDA KAZUTAKA
Published: August 2010

Abstract The mu opioid receptor (MOR) is known to play an essential role in morphine‐induced analgesia. MOR‐1 mRNA, the major MOR transcript, possesses a long 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) in both mouse and human species. The sequence of the MOR‐1 3′UTR, especially that of its 3′ end region, is conserved between mice and humans. In the MOR‐1 3′UTR, AU‐rich elements (AREs) are densely localized at the 3′ end region, suggesting low stability of this mRNA. Numerous putative transcription factor‐binding motifs are located in the 3′ non‐coding regions of the mouse and human MOR genes. The CXBK mouse strain, known as a MOR‐deficient strain, possesses a decreased amount of MOR‐1 mRNA containing an abnormally long MOR‐1 3′UTR with a long nucleotide insertion. This insert might disrupt the stability of the MOR‐1 mRNA or might reduce the transcription of the MOR‐1 mRNA by separating the transcription factor‐binding motifs in the 3′ non‐coding region of the MOR gene, thereby decreasing MOR‐1 mRNA expression and attenuating morphine‐induced analgesia in CXBK mice. These recent findings suggest that the MOR‐1 3′UTR is involved in mRNA expression and in the difference in response to morphine. This possible genetic mechanism may provide a good starting point for designing effective pain treatments with opiates.
Centrosome overduplication induced by rotenone treatment affects the cellular distribution of p53 tumor suppressor protein in the neuroblastoma B65 cell line
Authors: DIAZ‐CORRALES FRANCISCO J. , ASANUMA MASATO , MIYAZAKI IKUKO , Miyoshi KO , OGAWA NORIO
Published: August 2010

Abstract  Recently, the formation of inclusion bodies in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease, has been associated with the aggregation of unfolded proteins recruited in the centrosome. We have reported previously that rotenone, an insecticide that is used to produce experimental models of Parkinsonism, induced the aggregation of the α‐synuclein protein in the centrosome, and it notably affected the structure and function of this organelle in primary cultures of mesencephalic neurons and astrocytes. However, it is still obscure the mechanisms through which the disorganization and centrosomal dysfunction could induce cell death. In this study the rat neuroblastoma B65 cell line was chronically exposed to rotenone, and then the distribution of the centrosomal protein γ‐tubulin was studied by immunocytochemistry and Western blot analyses. Finally, the configuration of mitotic spindles and distribution of the p53 protein was observed in the control and rotenone‐treated groups. Rotenone treatment increased the number of cells having centrosome overduplication and multipolar mitotic spindles. In contrast, rotenone induced redistribution of the p53 protein, which was colocalized with the γ‐tubulin protein in the perinuclear region of cells having overduplicated centrosomes. In addition, the p53 positive signal was markedly intense in cells containing aberrant chromosome segregation and micronuclei. Our results suggest that centrosome overduplication may play an important role in the redistribution of the p53 protein in rotenone‐treated cells, and this could represent an alternative mechanism of rotenone to induce apoptosis in neuronal cells.
Sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with relapse in schizophrenia
Authors: CHABUNGBAM GOBIND , AVASTHI AJIT , SHARAN PRATAP
Published: August 2010

Abstract  The aim of the present study was to examine sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with relapse in schizophrenia. The study group consisted of a convenience sample of 40 schizophrenia patients (20 patients each in relapse and remission). Relapse and remission were defined based on clinical criteria (ICD‐10 criteria, course since last episode, and duration of remission) and psychometric criteria (scores on Socio‐Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale [SOFAS] and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale for Schizophrenia [PANSS]). The index group was evaluated after the occurrence of current relapse but within 6 months of its onset. Sociodemographic, current psychopathology (PANSS) and functioning (SOFAS), and other (mainly retrospective) variables were assessed with a specifically designed clinical profile sheet, Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia Lifetime version, Presumptive Stressful life Events Scale, and World Health Organization Life Chart Schedule for Assessment of Course and Outcome of Schizophrenia. Patients who had relapsed were more symptomatic and exhibited greater dysfunction in comparison to remitted patients. Relapse in schizophrenia was significantly associated with unemployment, number of psychotic episodes, side‐effects of medication, and life events score. The present findings suggest that a severe illness (no. psychotic episodes, unemployment), psychological stress and inappropriate treatment (side‐effects of medicines) may be causally related to relapse in schizophrenia. However, the possibility that these variables may be caused by relapse or may be explained by a common underlying variable needs to be assessed prospectively.
Panic symptoms in schizophrenia: Comorbidity and clinical correlates
Authors: ULAS HALIS , ALPTEKIN KOKSAL , AKDEDE BERNA BINNUR , TUMUKLU MEVHIBE , AKVARDAR YILDIZ , KITIS ARZU , POLAT SELMA
Published: August 2010

Abstract  The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of panic attack (PA) and panic disorder (PD) in patients with schizophrenia and detect the clinical features. Forty‐nine patients with schizophrenia were included in the study. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Clinical Global Impression (CGI), Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS) and Bandelow Panic and Agoraphobia Rating Scale were administered. Fifteen patients were found to have PA and seven patients had PD. Patients with panic symptoms had higher scores of PANSS, HDRS, CGI and ESRS. Comorbid panic symptoms in schizophrenia may be related to positive symptoms, extrapyramidal side‐effects and depression.
Factors related to quality of life in depressive outpatients in Taiwan
Authors: SUNG SU‐CHING , YEH MEI‐YU
Published: August 2010

Abstract  Issues related to recovery of quality of life (QoL) in depressive outpatients have been raised. This descriptive correlation study investigated QoL in depressive outpatients in Taiwan. A total of 181 depressive outpatients participated in the study. Their QoL levels were measured using the Taiwanese version of the Short Form of the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL‐BREF). The results indicate that multiple predicting factors including marriage, less severity of depression, better social support, and better medical professional–patient interaction are associated with better QoL in depressive outpatients in the physical, psychological, social relationship, and environmental domains. QoL and its correlation with depressive outpatients must be emphasized in order to develop appropriate strategies to improve QoL and treatment efficacy.
Activation of the prefrontal cortex during the Trail‐Making Test detected with multichannel near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: SHIBUYA‐TAYOSHI SUMIKO , SUMITANI SATSUKI , KIKUCHI KUMIKO , TANAKA TSUNEHIKO , TAYOSHI SHIN'YA , UENO SHU‐ICHI , OHMORI TETSURO
Published: August 2010

Abstract  The Trail‐Making Test (TMT) is a neuropsychological test for evaluating executive function, and the TMT Part B reflects more complex cognitive processes including cognitive set shifting. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is thought to be involved in these cognitive processes. The purpose of the present paper was to investigate PFC activation during performance of the TMT Part A and Part B using multichannel near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Subjects were 41 healthy right‐handed volunteers. The hemodynamic changes in the PFC during the TMT were measured on a 22‐channel NIRS machine. The subjects had a greater increase of oxygenated hemoglobin ([oxyHb]) during the TMT Part B than during Part A in the PFC. Twenty‐seven out of the 41 subjects had a bilateral increase of [oxyHb] in the PFC during Part B according to laterality index. NIRS detected activation in the PFC during the performance of the TMT Part B and this PFC activation may reflect executive functions including cognitive set shifting involved in the TMT Part B.
Risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine in the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease: Preliminary findings from a naturalistic, retrospective study
Authors: ROCCA PAOLA , MARINO FEDERICA , MONTEMAGNI CRISTIANA , PERRONE DAVIDE , BOGETTO FILIPPO
Published: August 2010

Abstract  The objectives of this retrospective, naturalistic study were to provide preliminary data on the effects of 6 months treatment with risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine on behavioral disturbances, within a sample of outpatients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, and on predictors of response. Between July 2005 and December 2005, data were collected from 58 consecutive outpatients with a DSM‐IV‐TR diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease with behavioral disturbances, who received a 6‐month treatment with risperidone, olanzapine or quetiapine. Primary outcome measures were Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) total score and its items forming the basic core of behavioral disturbances in Alzheimer's disease: delusions, hallucinations and agitation/aggressiveness. Secondary outcome measures were Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and Clinical Insight Rating scale. Correlations between baseline MMSE score and improvements in behavioral disturbances were investigated. At 6 months mean NPI total score had fallen 43.5% in the risperidone group, 45.6% in the olanzapine group and 33.3% in the quetiapine group, with no significant between‐group differences. Global cognitive function showed no significant change from baseline to end‐point. Incidence of adverse events was low. A significant correlation was found between MMSE score and NPI total score and NPI item agitation decreases. Risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine produced significant improvements in behavioral disturbances and were well tolerated. No significant differences emerged among treatments. The preliminary results also suggest that baseline cognitive function might influence treatment response.
Methamphetamine psychosis in which tardive dystonia was successfully treated with clonazepam
Authors: YAMAMOTO NOBUTOMO , ODA TATSURO , INADA TOSHIYA
Published: August 2010

Abstract  Reported herein is a case of methamphetamine psychosis in which tardive dystonia was treated successfully with clonazepam. The patient was a 69‐year‐old man who had taken methamphetamine habitually for approximately 40 years. Auditory hallucinations had developed 25 years previously, for which haloperidol had been prescribed. Tardive dystonia had developed in December 2005. Haloperidol was withdrawn and risperidone or olanzapine alone had been administered, but neither had improved the dystonic posture. However, when clonazepam was added, a gradual improvement in the dystonic posture became evident. Tardive dystonia is currently treated on a trial‐and‐error basis. Accumulation of further cases similar to the present one is very important for establishing an effective treatment.
Effectiveness of carbamazepine for benzodiazepine‐resistant impulsive aggression in a patient with frontal infarctions
Authors: NAGATA TOMOYUKI , HARADA DAISUKE , AOKI KIMIYOSHI , KADA HIROHIDE , MIYATA HISATSUGU , KASAHARA HIROO , NAKAYAMA KAZUHIKO
Published: August 2010

Abstract  Anticonvulsants have been used for the treatment of impulsive aggression since the 1980s. A 50‐year‐old man suffered from irritability and agitation after developing a right ipsilateral frontal lobe infarction as a result of Moyamoya disease; these symptoms caused difficulties with his working and interpersonal relationships. The patient had been treated using multiple benzodiazepine agents for 2 years but his symptoms had not improved. However, after treatment with carbamazepine (CBZ; 200 mg) was begun, the patient's irritability and agitation gradually decreased. The efficacy of CBZ treatment in this patient suggests a method for controlling benzodiazepine‐resistant impulsive aggression.
Development of 2‐hour suicide intervention program among medical residents: First pilot trial
Authors: Kato Takahiro A. , Suzuki Yuriko , Sato Ryoko , Fujisawa Daisuke , Uehara Kumi , Hashimoto Naoki , Sawayama Yasunori , Hayashi Jun , Kanba Shigenobu , Otsuka Kotaro
Published: August 2010

Aim:  Suicide is associated not only with primary psychiatric disorders but also with physical disorders. Physicians' education on suicide prevention contributes to reducing suicide. Therefore, medical residents, who contact patients daily and who eventually become primary physicians in each specialty, might be the most appropriate candidates for intervention. In this article, we introduce our newly developed suicide intervention program among medical residents.

Methods:  We developed a 2‐hour suicide intervention program among medical residents, based on the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), which had originally been developed for the public. The program contains a 1‐hour lecture and a 1‐hour role‐play session. As the first pilot trial, we conducted the program among 44 first‐year medical residents at a university hospital and evaluated its effectiveness. Changes in confidence, attitudes and behavior toward suicidal people were evaluated using self‐reported questionnaires before, immediately after, and 6 months after the program.

Results:  Participants' confidence and attitudes significantly improved after the program. The total mean score (standard deviation) of the Suicide Intervention Response Inventory improved from 18.4 (2.0) before the intervention to 19.4 (2.0) immediately after the intervention. However, the effectiveness was limited after 6 months. In the course of 6 months, the participants learned to apply the MHFA principles in their daily clinical practice.

Conclusion:  Our newly developed brief suicide intervention program demonstrating its effectiveness among medical residents should be modified in order to be more effective in the long term. The next trial with a control group ought to be conducted to evaluate our developed program.
Psychiatric comorbidity among patients with gender identity disorder
Authors: Hoshiai Masahiko , Matsumoto Yosuke , Sato Toshiki , Ohnishi Masaru , Okabe Nobuyuki , Kishimoto Yuki , Terada Seishi , Kuroda Shigetoshi
Published: August 2010

Aims:  Psychiatric comorbidity and mental instability seem to be important unfavorable prognostic factors for long‐term psychosocial adjustment in gender identity disorder (GID). However, psychiatric comorbidity in patients with GID has rarely been assessed. In this study, we investigated the psychiatric comorbidity and life events of patients with GID in Japan.

Methods:  A total of 603 consecutive patients were evaluated independently by at least two senior psychiatrists at the GID clinic using clinical information and results of examinations.

Results:  Using DSM‐IV criteria, 579 patients (96.0%) were diagnosed with GID. Among the GID patients, 349 (60.3%) were the female‐to‐male (FTM) type, and 230 (39.7%) were the male‐to‐female (MTF) type. Current psychiatric comorbidity was 19.1% (44/230) among MTF patients and 12.0% (42/349) among FTM patients. The lifetime positive history of suicidal ideation and self mutilation was 76.1% and 31.7% among MTF patients, and 71.9% and 32.7% among FTM patients. Among current psychiatric diagnoses, adjustment disorder (6.7%, 38/579) and anxiety disorder (3.6%, 21/579) were relatively frequent. Mood disorder was the third most frequent (1.4%, 8/579).

Conclusions:  Comparison with previous reports on the psychiatric comorbidity among GID patients revealed that the majority of GID patients had no psychiatric comorbidity. GID is a diagnostic entity in its own right, not necessarily associated with severe comorbid psychological findings.