bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Criteria for the Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease with Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Herholz K. , Adams R. , Kessler J. , Szelies B. , Grond M. , Heiss W.-D.
Published: August 2007

In the first part of the study, a comparison of 19 patients with Alzheimer''s disease (AD) with 19 age-matched controls was performed to establish diagnostic criteria of AD with positron emission tomography and 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxygIucose. Patients had a mean age of 60.6 ± 7.1 years, and a mean score of 14.5 ± 7.3 in Mini Mental Status examination, and of 4.9 ± 0.9 on the Global Deterioration Scale. They fulfilled current research criteria (NINCDS-ADRDA) for probable AD and had been screened rigorously to exclude other potentially dementing conditions, in particular cerebrovascular disease. Regional glucose metabolism was always abnormal in temporoparietal association areas, at least unilaterally, and in most patients also in fronto-lateral association areas. Regional metabolism relative to whole-brain metabolism was always normal in cerebellum, brain stem, and lentiform nucleus, and in most patients also in visual and sensorimotor cortex. A metabolic ratio of typically affected to typically unaffected regions was designed to represent this characteristic pattern. It provided a complete separation of AD patients from normals. In the second part of the study, the diagnostic power of this ratio was tested in an independent sample of 56 patients with a mean age of 59.9 ± 11.3 years. Eight of these patients had subjective memory complaints, but were found completely normal at neuropsychological and clinical examination. Twenty-two had cognitive deficits due to diseases other than AD, among them 7 with cerebrovascular disease, and 26 had probable AD. The classification by the metabolic ratio as AD or non-AD was correct in 85%, with a sensitivity of 92, and a specificity of 80%.
The Brain Renin-Angiotensin System and Behavior
Authors: Moore Norman C. , Gershon Samuel
Published: August 2007

A renin-angiotensin system, controlled by the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), exists in the brain and has many effects on animal and human behavior. We have reviewed the relevant basic and clinical literature because of the apparent importance of the system in mood and memory circuitry, and because drugs which inhibit ACE are of potential benefit in the treatment of many psychiatric disorders.
Potential Applications for Monoamine Oxidase B Inhibitors. pp 335–341
Authors: Kabins Darryl , Gershon Samuel
Published: August 2007

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are not only effective antidepressants, but also have several other applications. Yet, they are infrequently used as a result of their potential to cause toxic side effects such as tyramine-induced hypertensive crisis (cheese effect). A resurgence of interest in MAOIs followed the finding of two forms of MAO. This resulted from the development of drugs that selectively inhibit the metabolism of serotonin and norepinephrine (MAO-A) or dopamine and phenethylamine (MAO-B). MAO-B is the predominant MAO found in the human brain. Theoretically, selective MAO-B inhibition can enhance brain MAO levels while leaving intestinal MAO-A intact, thus bypassing the cheese effect, L-deprenyl is the most extensively studied MAO-B inhibitor. At low doses, it is very selective for MAO-B and is not associated with the cheese effect. At higher doses, it is virtually nonselective. L-deprenyl enhances the effect of L-dopa on Parkinson's disease and may retard its natural progression. Although studies have found L-deprenyl to be an effective antidepressant only at nonselective doses, certain subtypes of depression may respond to selective doses. Also, evidence suggests that L-deprenyl has a positive effect on the general function and cognitive abilities of Alzheimer patients. Studies to date, including those showing a significant increase in the life span of rats following L-deprenyl use have led to the speculation that L-deprenyl may not only treat or retard degenerative diseases and acute brain insults, but may prove to be the first antiaging medication. Several other potential applications of MAO-B inhibitors include panic, ADHD, sexual dysfunction, and PTSD. It remains unclear what role MAO-B inhibition plays in the various therapeutic effects of L-deprenyl. Other potential mechanisms are discussed.
Heterogeneity of the Course of Alzheimer's Disease: A Differentiation of Subgroups
Authors: Nyth Anna Lena , Gottfries Carl-Gerhard , Blennow Kaj , Bråne Görel , Wallin Anders
Published: August 2007

78 patients with Alzheimer''s disease (AD) were divided into four subgroups on the basis of their rate of cognitive decline. One group was distinguished by a higher age at onset (mean = 72, range 50–84), a fast cognitive decline, comparatively early emergence of symptoms indicating frontal disturbances, confusional symptomatology and no or mild parietal symptoms. Another group was distinguished by a lower age at onset (mean = 66, range 48–84), a low frequency of parietal, frontal and confusional symptomatology and a comparatively slow rate of cognitive decline. Differences in rate of cognitive decline and symptomatology between early-onset AD (EAD) and late-onset AD (LAD) were also investigated. Patients with LAD had a shorter duration of dementia and a faster rate of cognitive decline than patients with EAD. Parietal disturbances were more frequent in patients with EAD while confusional symptomatology and nonregional disturbances were more common in the LAD patients.
Clinicobiochemical Evaluation of Ceruletide in Patients with Dementia of the Alzheimer Type
Authors: Urakami K. , Takahashi K. , Adachi Y. , Matsushima E. , Sano K. , Saito H. , Takao T.
Published: August 2007

We evaluated the clinical effectiveness of ceruletide in patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type and its effects on neurotransmitters in cerebrospinal fluid. Mini mental state scores were significantly increased after ceruletide administration. Acetylcholinesterase activity in cerebrospinal fluid was significantly increased after administration, while somatostatin and monoamine metabolites showed no significant changes. Ceruletide improved intellectual function, and the improvement seemed to be due to activation of neurotransmitters in the acetylcholine system in the brain. Though the subjects were elderly patients, no side effects presenting clinical problems were observed. This warrants further detailed studies on the effectiveness of ceruletide in dementia of the Alzheimer type.
Relationship of Complement-Activated Oligodendrocytes to Reactive Microglia and Neuronal Pathology in Neurodegenerative Disease
Authors: Yamada T. , McGeer P.L. , McGeer E.G.
Published: August 2007

Twenty-six brains from persons with 6 neurodegenerative diseases were studied immunohistochemically to determine the relationship between complement-activated oligodendroglia (CAO), reactive microglia or macrophages, reactive astrocytes and abnormal neurites. The appearance of reactive microglia was well correlated with the appearance of reactive astrocytes. They were seen together in regions with severe pathology. Abnormal neurites were seen in almost every region examined and seemed to appear at a relatively early stage of pathologenesis. A profusion of CAOs was seen in regions of moderate but not severe pathology; they seemed to appear before heavy infiltration of reactive astrocytes and microglia, and then to disappear as this process intensified. These results strongly suggest that complement induces opsonization of damaged oligodendroglia for phagocytosis.
A Quantitative Analysis of Apraxia in Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type: Stage-Related Differences in Prevalence and Type
Authors: Edwards Dorothy F. , Deuel Ruthmary K. , Baum Carolyn M. , Morris John C.
Published: August 2007

Apraxia is clinically separable from other cognitive dysfunctions and has the potential to interfere with motor performance in everyday living. To determine its prevalence and severity at each stage of senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (SDAT), a quantitative apraxia battery was used in conjunction with comprehensive quantitative cognitive assessments of 142 SDAT subjects who fell into four stages of dementia severity, and 113 elderly persons determined to be intellectually healthy by the same cognitive assessment. Thirty-five percent of the mildly, 58% of moderately, and 98% of severely demented SDAT subjects showed apraxia. When ideomotor and ideational apraxia were considered separately, ideomotor apraxia was apparent in mild dementia, while ideational apraxia was found only in moderate and severe dementia. When a covariate analysis was employed to test the influence of aphasia that is known to occur in SDAT, ideomotor (but not ideational) deficits were found to be statistically distinct from language impairment. Taken together the findings suggest that ideomotor apraxia may be tied to loss of functional independence in individuals with SDAT.
Finger Tapping Frequency and Accuracy Are Decreased in Early Stage Primary Degenerative Dementia
Authors: Müller Gottfried , Weisbrod Steffen , Klingberg Fritz
Published: August 2007

Finger tapping parameters were investigated in a group of 21 patients suffering from early (mild) stage of a tentative presenile dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT), in a group of 14 patients with a questionable beginning dementia on the background of cardiovascular disease (CVD), in an age-matched (elder) control group (n = 10) and in a younger control group (n = 16). DAT patients responded significantly more slowly and less accurately in tapping with maximal frequency, with a self-chosen preferred frequency and in tasks to follow rhythmic acoustic clicks. CVD patients responded slightly more slowly but more accurately than DAT patients. The data confirm the hypothesis that decrease of brain operational speed and of focussed attention are early symptoms of dementia, especially of DAT and develop prior to memory decline.
The Evolution of Research into the Dementias
Authors: Lishman W.A.
Published: August 2007

The history of research into the dementias during the present century is outlined, with emphasis on key findings and important conceptual changes which have served to advance understanding. Current research approaches to Alzheimer''s disease are briefly outlined and are seen to be closely based on the medical model of ''illness''. The alternative (or perhaps complementary) view that Alzheimer''s disease may be indelibly related to neural ageing is discussed.
Clinical Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Burns Alistair
Published: August 2007

There are a number of ways in which a clinical diagnosis of dementia of the Alzheimer type can be made – the application of clinical criteria is the commonest but ancillary techniques such as neuroimaging, peripheral markers and neurophysiological investigations are helpful. The NINCDS/ADRDA criteria are the most consistent in correctly predicting, during life, who will have the neuropathological findings of Alzheimer''s disease and as such represent the gold standard for clinical diagnosis. Platelet membrane fluidity and the results of nasal biopsy may also be helpful but the specificity of abnormalities for Alzheimer''s disease has yet to be established. Computerised tomography and single photon emission tomography are the two most applicable and widely available neuroimaging techniques and, with single photon emission tomography, characteristic patterns of blood flow distribution are seen in Alzheimer''s disease. Even with the application of clinical guidelines and appropriate use of ancillary investigations, there is still diagnostic misclassification in up to 20% of cases for the refinement of clinical criteria and prospective clinico-pathological studies along with clinical criteria for other types of dementia are required.
Some Developments in the Genetics of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders
Authors: Kay David W.
Published: August 2007

Recent evidence suggests that Alzheimer''s disease (AD) may prove to be genetically and aetiologically heterogeneous. Genetic heterogeneity is suggested by linkage of the familial form of the disease to chromosome 21 in some but not all families with early onset and in no families with late onset; and secondly, by the discovery of a mutation in the β-amyloid precursor protein gene on chromosome 21, which is present in only a small minority of early onset families. A role for non-genetic factors is indicated by the high rate of discordance for AD in monozygotic twins. The dementia of boxers which is now reported to be associated with the presence of amorphous amyloid-containing plaques as well as tangles may be the first definite example of non-genetic AD. Case-control studies of AD in which the data have been pooled and re-analysed confirm the importance of genetic factors but also support an independent role for head injury. Apart from the early onset families with autosomal dominant inheritance the pooled data do not suggest that genetic factors are markedly different in the early and late onset cases.
Treatment of Depression in the Elderly – Progress or Confusion?
Authors: Christie A.B.
Published: August 2007

Two cohorts of cases of depression treated in the same centre a decade apart have been compared. The results show evidence of improvement in outcome at 4 years but this is not statistically significant. As a contribution to the debate on prognosis the study identifies both similarities and differences with the main protagonists in the good versus bad prognosis debate.
Clinicopathologic Study of Dementia in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Mizutani T. , Aki M. , Shiozawa R. , Tanabe H. , Uchigata M. , Oda M. , Endo Y. , Hara K. , Ihara Y.
Published: August 2007

We attempted to correlate dementia to histopathologic lesions in 15 autopsy patients with Lewy body type Parkinson disease (PD) by semiquantitative analysis of Alzheimer pathology, cortical Lewy bodies, locus ceruleus, nucleus basalis and vascular lesions. Ten out of the 15 patients were demented and consisted of 6 with PD alone, 2 with PD and marked Alzheimer pathology, 1 with PD, marked Alzheimer pathology and diffuse Lewy body disease and 1 with multiple cerebral infarcts, PD and marked Alzheimer pathology. The degeneration of the locus ceruleus was prominent in 2 patients with marked dementia but without any significant cortical pathology. Our findings are consistent with previous observations suggesting that the cause of dementia in PD is heterogeneous and further indicate that degeneration of the locus ceruleus may contribute to the pathogenesis of dementia in a subgroup of PD patients.
Parvalbumin-Immunoreactive Neurons in the Normal Human Hippocampus
Authors: Höchli M. , Zetzsche T. , Chan-Palay V.
Published: August 2007

Antibodies against parvalbumin, a cytoplasmic calcium-binding protein, were used for the immunocytochemical localization in the postmortem normal human hippocampus. Parvalbumin-containing neurons represent a subset of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons. Quantitative data were obtained by using a computer-assisted microscopic image-analyzing system. Parvalbumin immunoreactivity was demonstrated in somata, dendrites and axons of nonpyramidal neurons in all subregions of the hippocampus proper and in the entorhinal cortex. The surface of parvalbumin-immunoreactive (parv-i) neurons was smooth or sparsely spinous. In the hippocampus proper complete staining of dendritic processes and somata of parv-i neurons enabled their classification. In the dentate gyrus parv-i neurons were localized in or below the granular layer as well as in the center of the hilus. Nonreactive granule cell somata were surrounded by a dense plexus of parv-i axonal varicosities. In Ammon''s horn parv-i somata were localized predominantly in the stratum (s.) pyramidale and s. oriens. Most parv-i neurons were localized in CA1, sending long dendrites into the s. radiatum. Parv-i axons and axonal varicosities were found almost exclusively around nonreactive neuronal somata in the s. pyramidale. In the subiculum parv-i neurons were scattered in all layers. In the entorhinal cortex the number of parv-i neurons was much higher compared to the hippocampus proper, but their dendrites often show faint or incomplete staining. Parv-i somata and axon varicosities were found in the islands of layer II, but with the greatest number in layer III. These findings will form the basis for comparisons with the parv-i neuronal populations of patients with senile dementia of the Alzheimer type, multi-infarct dementia and Parkinson''s disease.
Aniracetam (Ro 13-5057) for the Treatment of Senile Dementia of Alzheimer Type: Results of a Multicentre Clinical Study
Authors: Parnetti Lucilla , Bartorelli Luisa , Bonaiuto Salvatore , Cucinotta Domenico , Cuzzupoli Marco , Erminio Franco , Maggioni Maurizio , Marini Giorgio , Paciaroni Enrico , Pedrazzi Fausto , Peruzza Marino , Senin Umberto
Published: August 2007

One hundred and fifteen patients suffering from mild to moderate cognitive impairment fulfilling NINCDS-ADRDA criteria for probable dementia of Alzheimer type were treated for 6 months with a new nootropic drug, aniracetam (Ro 13–5057) in a double-blind randomized study versus piracetam. The two treatment groups were comparable at baseline for demographic and behavioural parameters and symptomatology. All patients underwent clinical, behavioural and psychometric evaluation every other month. The aniracetam group showed statistically significant improvements over the majority of psychobehavioural parameters used to assess efficacy. To a lesser extent the piracetam group also showed an improvement. Excellent drug tolerability was found in both groups.
Behavioral Changes in Mice Induced by Aluminum in Drinking Water
Authors: Gotloib Lyor C. , Shostak Avshalom , Gotloib Lazaro
Published: August 2007

Aluminum intoxication causes memory loss, orientation problems and aggressive behavior in mice. We trained mice for 5 weeks on a maze and then subjected them to 4 or 8 % Al sulfate in drinking water for a further 16 and 3 weeks respectively. Average running times decreased continuously for controls, but rose for both experimental groups. Lag time for the lower Al group was 6 weeks. At the end of the experiment, running times for controls were about a third, and those for both experimental groups more than twice, the value at the end of training (p < 0.01, one-way ANOVA). Fluorescent Morin showed large Al concentrations in the cerebral cortex of mice from the 4% Al group. These results indicate that chronic administration of Al salts in drinking water to mice induces behavioral changes that may reflect a memory deficit, with no visible loss of feeling or motor capabilities.
Alterations in Tyrosine Hydroxylase Immunoreactive Neurons of the Locus ceruleus in Pick's Disease
Authors: Luque J.M. , Chan-Palay V.
Published: August 2007

The present study describes qualitative and quantitative investigations of the norepinephrine neurons in the locus ceruleus as well as in the subceruleus region of a case of the rare autosomal dominant Pick's disease as compared with a representative control and a case of senile dementia of the Alzheimer type selected from the ZÜrich Study on Dementia. It confirms previous findings that it is possible to differentiate between the norepinephrine neurons of locus ceruleus in normal brain and that in the SDAT for diagnostic purposes and suggests a similar possibility for Pick's disease. In Pick's disease locus ceruleus norepinephrine neurons appear morphologically altered with smaller somata and loss of dendritic and axonal processes, and when present, are foreshortened and less branched. Locus ceruleus neuron numbers are slightly reduced as compared with the control case.
Cobalamin in Blood and Cerebrospinal Fluid in Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders
Authors: Basun Hans , Forsell Lars G. , Bendz Rutger , Wahlund Lars-Olov , Wetterberg Lennart , Winblad Bengt
Published: August 2007

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum levels of cobalamin were studied in 35 subjects with dementia and in 7 healthy volunteers with no clinical or family history of dementia. The demented patients were classified into three groups according to DSM-III-R: dementia of Alzheimer-type (DAT), multi-infarct dementia (MID) and dementia not otherwise specified (DNOS). The CSF concentrations of cobalamin were significantly reduced in the DAT and MID cases. There were correlations between CSF and serum levels of cobalamin in the patient groups. The cobalamin levels in CSF were not related to cognitive functioning, behavior or degree of dementia, respectively. The subarachnoid spaces, ventricles and white-matter changes in the brain were observed on magnetic resonance imaging. The volumes were calculated in the DAT group, but there were no correlations to CSF or serum concentrations of cobalamin. The significance of low CSF cobalamin is discussed in relation to the metabolism of the brain.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine in Aged Subjects with Major Depression: Clinical Efficacy and Effects on the Circadian Rhythm of Cortisol
Authors: Gecele Michela , Francesetti Gianni , Meluzzi Alessandro
Published: August 2007

The relationship between depression and alterations in circadian hormonal rhythms has received much attention in recent times. In particular abnormalities in cortisol rhythm can be viewed as an endocrine correlate of depression. Circadian rhythms are normalized under recovery. The objective of this study was to make an evaluation of clinical and biological effectiveness of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC). ALC has been investigated for treatment in cognitive deficits of elderly people. The efficacy of ALC in treating major depression has been reported in more recent ALC studies. In this double-blind study the antidepressant activity of ALC versus placebo was evaluated. We have selected 28 aged depressed subjects, meeting DSM III R criteria for Major Depression. Cortisol mean levels, cortisol rhythms and depressive symptoms have been evaluated in patients before and after ALC or placebo treatment. The results of the trial showed significantly higher clinical and biological efficacy for ALC as compared to placebo.
Calbindin D-28k and Monoamine Oxidase A Immunoreactive Neurons in the Nucleus Basalis of Meynert in Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Chan-Palay V. , Höchli M. , Savaskan E. , Hungerecker G.
Published: August 2007

In this study, calbindin D-28k (CaBP), monoamine oxidase A (MAO A) and nerve growth factor receptor (NGFr) immunoreactivities were investigated in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NbM) in patients with senile dementia of the Alzheimer type (SDAT), with Parkinson''s disease (PD) with or without dementia, and in controls. Immunocytochemistry using specific antibodies in differing serial sections was employed, and cell counts and NbM nuclear volume measurements were made. Most of the large multipolar NbM neurons showed CaBP immunoreactivity in the cytoplasm of their somata, dendrites and axons. In adjacent, NGFr-reacted sections, the large NbM neurons were also found to be intensely immunoreactive for NGFr on their cellular surfaces. In addition, a subpopulation of large NbM neurons and glial cells were found to be immunoreactive for MAO A. The number of CaBP-immunoreactive (CaBP-i) neurons was decreased by an average of 55% in the 6 SDAT patients, 70% in the 2 nondemented PD patients and 40% in the 1 demented PD patient. The volume calculated for the compact part of the NbM formed by the CaBP-i neuronal somata decreased by an average of 47% in SDAT. On the other hand, measurements in the volume of NGFr-i neurons (including the dendritic arborization) showed an average decrease of 25% in SDAT patients compared to controls. Although all SDAT and PD patients showed a decrease of CaBP-i neurons in the NbM, a loss of MAO-A-i NbM neurons was found only in those patients with dementia. Therefore, the relative proportions of MAO-A-i to CaBP-i neurons were increased in the nondemented PD patients (14.2 and 19.6%) when compared with those in the demented PD patient (2.2%) and with the SDAT patients (0.3-5.6%). These data indicate that a balanced presence of MAO-A-i cholinergic, large NbM neurons may be necessary for the proper maintenance of cognitive function. Functionally this may be translated to mean that dementing changes may cause a decrease from the normal amount of MAO A enzyme activity. This suggests that therapeutic strategies based upon correction of MAO-A activities by MAO-A inhibitors may be important to ameliorating some of the loss in cholinergic function in dementias of SDAT and PD.
The Spatial Patterns of Plaques and Tangles in Alzheimer's Disease Do Not Support the 'Cascade Hypothesis'
Authors: Armstrong R.A. , Myers D. , Smith C.U.M.
Published: August 2007

In Alzheimer''s disease (AD), the ''Cascade hypothesis'' proposes that the formation of paired helical filaments (PHF) may be causally linked to the deposition of β/A4 protein. Hence, there should be a close spatial relationship between senile plaques and cellular neurofibrillary tangles in a local region of the brain. In tissue from 6 AD patients, plaques and tangles occurred in clusters and individual clusters were often regularly spaced along the cortical strip. However, the clusters of plaques and tangles were in phase in only 4/32 cortical tissues examined. Hence, the data were not consistent with the ''Cascade hypothesis'' that β/A4 and PHF are directly linked in AD.
Psychometric Discrimination of Tetrahydroaminoacridine Responders in Alzheimer Patients
Authors: Alhainen Kari , Helkala Eeva-Liisa , Riekkinen Paavo
Published: August 2007

Fourteen patients with probable Alzheimer''s disease (AD) participated in an open tetrahydroaminoacridine (THA) treatment trial. Before initiation of THA treatment, a brief battery of neuropsychological tests was performed by an experienced neuropsychologist. The tests were repeated 120 min after a single dose of 50 mg THA had been administered perorally. Thereafter, the patients had a 4-week active treatment with THA 100 mg/day. After the treatment period, eight patients were defined as responders (increase of Mini-Mental State Examination score ≧ 3) and six patients as nonresponders to the treatment. The responders showed significant improvement on Digit Span, Trail Making B, and on both Clock Setting and Clock Recognition tests after 50 mg of THA. The results suggest that in this subgroup of AD patients augmentation of the brain cholinergic systems mainly led to improvement of attentional and frontal-lobe rather than mnemonic functions.
Reduced Phosphatidylinositol Kinase Activity in Alzheimer's Disease: Effects of Age and Onset
Authors: Jolles J. , Bothmer J. , Markerink M. , Ravid R.
Published: August 2007

Phosphatidylinositol kinase (PI kinase) and phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinase (PIP kinase) were assayed in a membrane-free cytosolic fraction prepared from the medial temporal cortex of patients with Alzheimer''s disease (AD) and nondemented controls, with exogenous lipids as substrate. 32P-PIP formation appeared to be reduced by 21% in patients with AD who died before 80 years, compared to matched controls. In addition, there was an age-related decrease in PI kinase activity in the control group. In the AD patients there was no age-related decrease. Very old AD patients (older than 80 when they died) with a short duration of the disease were characterized by increased PI kinase activity. No differences were found in the closely related enzyme PIP kinase. The results are indicative for heterogeneity in AD.
Assessment of Depression in Alzheimer's Disease: Symptoms, Syndrome, and Computed Tomography Findings
Authors: Troisi A. , Pasini A. , Gori G. , Sorbi T. , Biagini C. , Aulisi A. , Baroni A. , Ciani N.
Published: August 2007

The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) and DSM-III-R criteria were simultaneously employed to assess the prevalence of depression in 26 outpatients with dementia of the Alzheimer type and 26 age-matched normal control subjects. Both assessment methods evidenced a higher frequency of depression during the severe stages of Alzheimer''s disease. Among the Alzheimer patients, the prevalence rate of depression produced by the HAM-D (38%) was higher than the rate produced by DSM-III-R criteria (23%). Such a difference was due to the weight given by the HAM-D to the vegetative symptoms reported by the Alzheimer patients with more severe dementia. In a subgroup of 14 Alzheimer patients who underwent computed tomography, the volumetric measurement of CSF spaces did not reveal any difference between the depressed and nondepressed patients. On the basis of these results, the clinical problems related to the assessment of depression in Alzheimer''s disease are discussed.
Is Impaired Recall in Dementia of the Alzheimer Type a Consequence of a Contextual Retrieval Deficit?
Authors: Pollmann S. , Haupt M. , Romero B. , Kurz A.
Published: August 2007

Eighty-eight patients with mild to moderate dementia of the Alzheimer type were tested in a word list and a spatial pattern recall task. With increasing degree of dementia severity we found a decline in the initial recall scores while learning curves over five consecutive trials remained normal in the mildly demented patients. Furthermore, there was a loss of the primacy effect in the word list task in our moderately demented patients. These findings are consistent with the pattern that have been reported after medial temporal lobe dysfunction. The data are discussed in the framework of cognitive dual process theories of memory as indicators of a contextual retrieval deficit.
Telephone-Assessed Mental State
Authors: Lanska Douglas J. , Schmitt Frederick A. , Stewart Jennifer M. , Howe Jeffrey N.
Published: August 2007

In 30 patients with Alzheimer''s disease (AD), we compared performance on a brief Telephone-Assessed Mental State (TAMS) examination with performance on standard cognitive instruments administered face to face. TAMS scores correlated strongly with scores on both the Mini Mental State Examination (ρ = 0.81) and the Alzheimer''s Disease Assessment Scale (ρ = -0.80).
Clinical Picture of Frontal Lobe Degeneration of Non-Alzheimer Type
Authors: Gustafson Lars
Published: August 2007

Frontal lobe degeneration of non-Alzheimer type (FLD) is the second most common primary degenerative dementia in southern Sweden. Clinical findings in 30 FLD cases with postmortem-verified diagnoses are described. FLD starts in the presenium with a mean disease duration of 7.5 years (range 3-17 years). Clinical onset is insidious and slow and the early stage is dominated by personality changes with lack of insight and judgement and signs of disinhibition. A typical feature is progressive loss of expressive speech with stereotyped phrases, late mutism and amimia. Restlessness, changes of oral/dietary behavior and utilization behavior are prevalent as also psychotic features. Temporal and spatial orientation are usually preserved for a long time in contrast to Alzheimer''s disease. Dementia in FLD is similar to that of Pick''s disease and ALS with dementia. Early recognition of FLD seems possible based on standardized clinical evaluation supported by neuropsychological tests, measurement of regional cerebral blood flow and other types of brain imaging. The etiology of FLD is unknown but a positive heredity was reported in 60%.
The Clinical Pathological Correlates of Lobar Atrophy
Authors: Neary D. , Snowden J.S. , Mann D.M.A.
Published: August 2007

Three clinical syndromes associated with fronto-temporal cerebral atrophy, studied in one centre are discussed: dementia of frontal type (DFT), DFT and motor neurone disease (MND) and progressive aphasia (PA). The pathological findings in DFT (13 brains), DFT and MND (5 brains) and PA (5 brains) permit a number of clinical pathological groupings. The nosological status of fronto-temporal atrophy is discussed with reference to the literature and it is suggested that a common underlying pathology, including Picks disease as strictly defined by the presence of inclusion bodies, underlies the clinical syndromes, each being determined by the anatomical distribution of the pathology.
Neuropeptides in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia with Frontotemporal Lobe Degeneration
Authors: Edvinsson L. , Minthon L. , Ekman R. , Gustafson L.
Published: August 2007

The two major primary degenerative dementias, dementia of Alzheimer type (DAT) and frontal lobe degeneration of non-Alzheimer type (FLD) have several clinical features in common but also many symptoms that differ. In a clinical material of 80 patients with either of the two forms of dementia (DAT = 39, FLD = 41) we have studied the levels of neuropeptides in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in order to find biochemical markers for CNS affection. The dementia forms were evaluated by careful clinical analysis, psychometric testing and measurement of regional cerebral blood flow. Approximately one third of the subjects died during the completion of the study and neuropathology was performed, confirming the diagnoses. We observed reductions in the CSF levels of antidiuretic hormone and somatostatin in both DAT and FLD. A strong tendency to reduction was noted for neuropeptide Y (NPY). There was a correlation with the duration of disease demonstrating a significant reduction in NPY levels in subjects with DAT. Most notably there was a strong reduction in the levels of delta sleep inducing peptide (DSIP) in DAT cases only. The levels of DSIP in FLD were the same as in controls. The reverse was found for corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) which had a significant reduction in FLD patients but not in those with DAT. The present study indicates a difference in the CSF levels of neuropeptides, observations that these may serve as biochemical markers which differentiate DAT and FLD.
Neuropsychological Findings in Frontal Lobe Dementia
Authors: Elfgren C. , Passant U. , Risberg J.
Published: August 2007

Neuropsychological investigations were performed on 18 patients with a clinical diagnosis of frontal lobe dementia supported by regional cerebral blood flow measurements. Nature and degree of cognitive impairment were examined with a comprehensive test battery. The results of the neuropsychological assessment could be described as three levels of cognitive impairment. The increasing levels of cognitive impairment were accompanied by corresponding levels of reduced cerebral blood flow in frontotemporal areas. No apparent relationship emerged between impairment level and illness duration, indicating a considerable individual variation in the clinical course of frontal lobe dementia.
Galaninergic Innervation of the Cholinergic Vertical Limb of the Diagonal Band (Ch2) and Bed Nucleus of the Stria terminalis in Aging, Alzheimer's Disease and Down's Syndrome (Part 1 of 2)
Authors: Mufson Elliott J. , Cochran Elizabeth , Benzing William , Kordower Jeffrey H.
Published: August 2007

The galanin (GAL) containing peptide fiber system circuit which innervates acetylcholine containing basal forebrain neurons has been shown to hypertrophy and hyperinnervate remaining cholinergic Ch4 perikarya in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The present study examined whether a similar hyperinnervation occurs within the cholinergic vertical limb of the diagonal band nucleus (Ch2), a portion of the basal forebrain which, unlike Ch4, exhibits only modest degeneration in AD. Furthermore, we evaluated whether GAL hyperinnervation occurs within the basal forebrain in Down's syndrome, a genetic disorder with extensive AD-like pathology including cholinergic basal forebrain neuron degeneration. The present study revealed that virtually all Ch2 neurons were GAL immunonegative. However, this region was innervated by GAL immunoreactive (ir) interneurons and fibers associated with a major galaninergic pathway which travels through the substantia innominata enroute to the hypothalamus, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis as well as vertical limb of diagonal band nucleus. GAL-ir fibers coursing within this fiber bundle hypertrophied in AD relative to age matched controls and the Down's cases. Within the putative Ch2 terminal zones in AD, many of the remaining cholinergic neurons were hyperinnervated by GAL despite the modest reduction in Ch2 neurons. In contrast, GAL-ir fibers were not hypertrophied in Down's syndrome despite extensive cholinergic cell loss within Ch4. Taken together these findings suggest that extensive cholinergic basal forebrain cell loss alone is not sufficient to trigger the basal forebrain GAL plasticity response found in AD.
Phosphorylation of Tau by Cyclic-AMP-Dependent Protein Kinase
Authors: Robertson Janice , Loviny Thérêse L.F , Goedert Michel , Jakes Ross , Murray Kenneth J. , Anderton Brian H. , Hanger Diane P.
Published: August 2007

Alzheimer's disease paired helical filaments contain abnormally phosphorylated tau (PHF-tau) which has reduced electrophoretic mobility on sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide electrophoresis. We have investigated the effects of cyclic-AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) on recombinant human tau isoforms and two recombinant tau fragments. PKA phosphorylated tau and reduced its electrophoretic mobility, phosphorylation towards the C-terminus of tau having a major influence on this property. Substitution of serine396 (phosphorylated in PHF-tau) or serine416 (phosphorylated by calcium/calmodulin kinase II) by alanine demonstrated that these are not major sites for PKA phosphorylation. Although the phosphorylated forms of tau generated by PKA are not identical to those of PHF-tau, PKA may be involved in the generation of PHF-tau in Alzheimer's disease via phosphorylation of additional, as yet unidentified, sites on tau.
Variation in Psychiatric and Behavioural Symptoms at Different Stages of Dementia: Data from Physicians' Examinations and Informants' Reports
Authors: Forsell Y. , Jorm A.F. , Winblad B.
Published: August 2007

An investigation was carried out of psychiatric and behavioural symptoms in non-demented and demented subjects derived from a population study of the very elderly. Information on psychiatric and behavioural symptoms came from two independent sources: a physician's examination and an interview with an informant The symptoms were grouped into clusters using principal-components analysis. Little agreement was found between the two sources of information on symptoms of anxiety, depression and psychosis. However, there was agreement about an increase in inactivity symptoms as the severity of dementia increased.
A Comparison of Cognitive Impairments in Dementia of the Alzheimer Type and Depression in the Elderly
Authors: Geffen Gina , Bate Andrew , Wright Margaret , Rozenbilds Ute , Geffen Laurie
Published: August 2007

General cognitive function and specific language and memory processing abilities were compared in dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT), depressed and normal control subjects. Several tests clearly differentiated between DAT and depressed subjects including a verbal fluency task, several components of a word memory test, an IQ deterioration index, and the Mini-Mental State Examination. The inability of DAT subjects to take advantage of semantic cues in both the verbal fluency and in the memory test contrasted with the performance of depressed and normal subjects, who were able to benefit from semantic cues. Depressed patients displayed deficits compared with normal controls on the more effortful verbal fluency task but not on the memory test. Tasks that are least effortful, rely on semantic associations, and require declarative memory are most likely to discriminate between DAT and depression.
Epidemiology of Depressive Symptoms in Elderly Primary Care Attenders
Authors: Evans Sandra , Katona Cornelius
Published: August 2007

408 elderly primary care attenders were screened using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the 30-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). 36% were identified as ''cases'' on the GDS and 32% on the GHQ. The ''cases'' and a random sample of ''non-cases'' were interviewed using the Geriatric Mental State Examination (GMS), the Bedford College Life Events and Difficulties Interview (LEDS), the National Adult Reading Test (NART), and systematic inquiry concerning physical health. Sensitivity and specificity of the GDS were 85% and 68%, and of the GHQ 77% and 67%. General practitioner identification of cases showed a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 60% against the GMS. Depression was significantly associated with life events, chronic difficulties, poor physical health and current lack of a confiding relationship. Subjective complaints of depression were associated with low premorbid intelligence and lifelong lack of a confiding relationship. The availability of a confiding relationship appears to have a protective effect against depressive illness associated with life events and chronic difficulties.
Overview of Dementia Lacking Distinctive Histology: Pathological Designation of a Progressive Dementia
Authors: Knopman David S.
Published: August 2007

The group of progressive dementing illnesses that lack distinctive histologic features includes at least four variants: a cortical type, a thalamostriate type, a motor neuronopathy type and a Ieukogliotic type. While the clinical presentation of some cases is that of anterograde amnesia, progressive aphasia and dysexecutive syndrome are the most common initial symptom complexes. A large number of reported cases are familial, although no abnormal gene has been identified. Pathologically, these illnesses are defined by cortical, hippocampal, striatal, medial thalamic, nigral and motor nuclei cell dropout and astrogliosis. In some cases, white matter gliosis is striking. Identification of specific histological or molecular markers of at least some of these conditions will greatly advance our understanding of these specific conditions as well as dementing illnesses in general.
Female rock sparrows (Petronia petronia), not males, respond differently to simulations of different courtship interaction outcomes
Authors: Dabelsteen Torben , Peake Tom , Matessi Giuliano , McGregor Peter
Published: August 2007

Animals communicate in networks which spread beyond the classic sender-receiver dyad. Researchers have often concentrated on networks of signalling males, but the network-level effects of male-female signalling interactions are largely unexplored, even though these can contain information when individuals of both sexes have access to a range of mating strategies. We tested whether rock sparrows (Petronia petronia) behave differently after hearing playbacks of vocal interactions simulating a successful courtship as opposed to playback of an unsuccessful courtship. We found no support for our prediction that males which heard a successful courtship simulation would increase the frequency of sexual behaviours compared with those which heard the unsuccessful courtship. Females which heard the successful courtship simulation stayed longer at the nest site and inside the nest box compared with those which heard the unsuccessful courtship simulation. Therefore, females responded to the treatments as if these represented different degrees of competition for either mates or nest sites. This is, to the best of our knowledge, among the first experimental demonstrations that female birds intercept signalling interactions between males and females and suggests that information available through communication networks can be relevant for an animal's choice of breeding strategy.
Can redirected aggression explain interspecific attacks by Australian magpies on other birds?
Authors: Waas Joseph , Innes John , Morgan Dai
Published: August 2007

Attacks by participants of conflicts against a third party are referred to as redirected aggression. Usually the third party is a conspecific — few documented cases of redirected aggression against other species exist. The Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen), however, often attacks other species; the reasons for attacks are largely unknown. Some attacks occur after territorial disputes with conspecifics, suggesting that attacks are the result of redirected aggression. We subjected eight Australian magpie groups to simulated territorial intrusions. In one treatment an Australian magpie and rock dove (Columba livia) were presented in cages next to one another (5 m apart) on the territory for 30 min; the Australian magpie decoy was then covered and aggressive responses toward the rock dove by residents were recorded for a further 30 min (Treatment 1). Two additional treatments were presented in an identical manner on each territory where both decoys were either Australian magpies (Treatment 2) or rock doves (Treatment 3). We predicted that if Australian magpies regularly redirect aggression onto benign species after conspecific territorial intrusions, attack rates on the rock dove decoy in Treatment 1 would be higher than attack rates on the rock dove decoy in Treatment 3. Residents were seldom recorded close (<1 m) and not seen attacking rock dove decoys during tests. In contrast, Australian magpie decoys were often approached and attacked by residents. After a decoy was covered (following the first 30 min phase), residents spent little time in close proximity (on cage, <0.3 m, or 0.3-1 m) to the rock dove decoy in either Treatment 1 or Treatment 3; in contrast, residents were often recorded close to the Australian magpie decoy in Treatment 2. We found no evidence that Australian magpies redirect aggression onto other birds after territorial intrusions. The true proportion of territorial disputes leading to redirected attacks may be small, or only occur under highly specific contexts.
Female preference for a male sexual trait uncorrelated with male body size in the Palmate newt (Triturus helveticus)
Authors: Gentilhomme  , Haerty  , Secondi
Published: August 2007

Mate choice is often based on the assessment of multiple traits. Depending on whether traits provide redundant or different information about male characteristics, correlation between traits is expected to arise or not. In species where size increases with age, body size can be a reliable indicator of adult survival whereas secondary sexual traits advertise other qualities like the ability to exploit local resources. However, because of correlations between morphological traits it is often difficult to determine whether females base their preference on the absolute or the relative size of secondary sexual traits. We addressed this issue in the palmate newt, Triturus helveticus. We selected the two most variable traits, body size and filament length, whose weak correlation suggested that they could signal different aspects of male condition or quality. We tested female preference for both traits in two experiments in which we controlled either for body size or filament length. Females preferred males with long filament in experiment 1 and males with small body sizes in experiment 2. The preference for an exaggerated trait like the caudal filament is not unexpected in a context of inter-sexual selection. In contrast, the preference for small males contrasts with usual findings on mate choice. However, body size might not be a reliable quality indicator because males of different cohorts can experience different conditions throughout their life. The caudal filament, grown each breeding period, likely reflects male condition. By assessing such a character, females might evaluate the performance of a potential partner in the current environment regardless of its age.