MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Schizophrenia Research' source. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 16:39:00 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251082&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000708%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251082 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:04:37 +0100 3251082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251081&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000691%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251081 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:04:37 +0100 3251081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251067&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000629%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251067 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:04:35 +0100 3251067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204759&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000393%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204759 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 17:56:18 +0100 3204759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204758&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000381%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204758 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 17:56:18 +0100 3204758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204727&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000241%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204727 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 17:56:14 +0100 3204727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251070&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996410000071%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we investigated associations between resting-state networks and individual psychopathology in sixteen patients with paranoid schizophrenia and sixteen matched healthy control participants.We estimated whole-brain functional connectivity of multiple networks using a combination of spatial independent component analysis and multiple regression analysis. Five networks (default-mode, left and right fronto-parietal, left fronto-temporal and auditory networks) were selected for analysis based on their involvement in neuropsychological models of psychosis. Between-group comparisons and correlations to psychopathology ratings were performed on both spatial (connectivity distributions) and temporal features (power-spectral densities of temporal frequencies below 0.06Hz). Schizophreni... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251070 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251072&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006057%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The inverted U-shaped curves in the SZ BOLD signal in the same areas that show flat activation in the HC data indicate widespread neural inefficiency in working memory in SZ. While both groups performed the task with similar levels of accuracy, participants with schizophrenia show a compensatory network of different sub-regions of the prefrontal cortex, parietal lobule, and the temporal gyri in this working memory task. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251072 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251076&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006070%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: On a population-wide basis, people with schizophrenia had a higher prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease than those without schizophrenia, particularly at a younger age. Female sex offered no cardiovascular protection in those with schizophrenia. Our data suggest monitoring for diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors should begin at the time of diagnosis of schizophrenia, particularly in females with schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251076 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251079&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006240%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes It is with great interest that we read the article by Yoshida et al., recently published in Schizophrenia Research (). In the cross-sectional comparisons, the authors found smaller relative volumes in patients with schizophrenia compared to healthy subjects in the posterior superior temporal gyrus (STG) and in the amygdala-hippocampal complex (AHC). However, no statistically significant progression of volume reduction in either the STG or AHC was observed. In addition, it was found that, in the schizophrenia group, volume change in the left anterior AHC was significantly correlated with negative symptoms identified through the PANSS. Yoshida et al. concluded that marked progression can be seen at the initial stage of schizophrenia, but less in chronic schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251079 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251080&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006252%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Although whether there are progressive brain changes in schizophrenia remains controversial (), progressive volume reduction of the superior temporal gyrus (STG) has been reported during the early stages of the illness (). However, the only region of interest (ROI) based longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of this region in chronic schizophrenia found no such changes (), suggesting a nonlinear pattern of STG reduction. We aimed to replicate this finding and further examine whether specific STG subregions show progressive changes in chronic schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251080 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251071&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006197%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: These findings may reflect an increase in parahippocampal gyrus and amygdala activity during passive listening of emotional words in patients with schizophrenia and auditory hallucinations. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251071 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251068&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006136%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Recent genetic results have indicated that the two major, classically distinct forms of psychosis – schizophrenia and bipolar disorder – may share causative factors in common. However it is not clear to what extent they may also have similar profiles of brain abnormality. We used meta-analytic techniques to generate and compare maps of brain structural abnormality in the large samples of patients with both disorders that have been studied using magnetic resonance imaging.Method: A systematic search was conducted for voxel-based morphometry studies examining gray matter in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. The anatomical distribution of the co-ordinates of gray matter differences was meta-analysed using Anatomical Likelihood Estimation.Results: Forty... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251068 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251075&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409006203%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Compared to the general population, people with schizophrenia are at risk of dying prematurely due to suicide and due to different somatic illnesses. The potential role of antipsychotic treatment in affecting suicide rates and in explaining the increased mortality due to somatic disorders is highly debated.A recent study of death registers in Finland compared the cause-specific mortality in 66,881 patients versus the total population (5.2million) between 1996 and 2006, suggesting that antipsychotic use decreased all-cause mortality compared to no antipsychotic use in patients with schizophrenia, and that clozapine had the most beneficial profile in this regard (). The benefits of clozapine were conferred by significant protective effects for suicide compared to perphenazine, wher... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251075 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3251075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204747&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900560X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Impaired awareness of the self and others (i.e., metacognitive evaluations) are seen in schizophrenia. We compared patterns of activation in schizophrenia (SZ) and nonclinical subjects during a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) task of metacognitive evaluations that has been demonstrated to engage the neural circuitry of the self in healthy subjects.Methods: Eleven SZ subjects (7 males, mean age 26.6±8) and 10 healthy control subjects (4 males, mean age 29.6±8.4) were enrolled. Participants completed two runs of a metacognitive evaluation task (self vs. other vs. word meaning). fMRI data was obtained using a full body Bruker MedSped 4.0Tesla system. Group contrasts were performed using an uncorrected p (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204747 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3204747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204731&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005921%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1) gene acts as a cellular survival factor in response to several environmental and psychosocial stresses. The expression level of CHI3L1 was increased in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex regions of patients with schizophrenia. Genetic variants of the CHI3L1 gene have been significantly associated with schizophrenia in two distinct ethnic groups, the Chinese and Irish populations. The aims of this study are to confirm the association between the CHI3L1 gene and schizophrenia in a Japanese population using the largest sample size to date (1463 cases and 1795 controls) and perform a meta-analysis of the combined samples (3005 cases, 3825 controls and 601 trios). We found significant associations between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) 4/rs4950... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204731 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3204731 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251077&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005623%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study measured GABA concentration in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and in the left basal ganglia (ltBG) in 38 patients with chronic schizophrenia and 29 healthy control subjects.There was no significant difference in GABA concentration between the schizophrenia patients and the healthy controls in either the ACC (1.36±0.45mmol/l in schizophrenia patients and 1.52±0.54mmol/l in control subjects) or the ltBG (1.13±0.26mmol/l in schizophrenia patients and 1.18±0.20mmol/l in control subjects). Among the right handed schizophrenia patients, the GABA concentration in the ltBG was significantly higher in patients taking typical antipsychotics (1.25±0.24mmol/l) than in those taking atypical antipsychotics (1.03±0.24mmol/l, p=0.026). In the ACC, the GABA concentration was negativel... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251077 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3251077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204755&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005647%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Numerous tasks have been employed to examine putative semantic deficits in schizophrenia. In a semantic sentence verification task, patients made more errors and were slower establishing veridicality (“Desks wear clothes” — ), and when knowledge of living and human-made items was probed performed worse on most tests (). Other studies suggest semantic knowledge is represented equivalently (). Furthermore, some techniques (multidimensional scaling and clustering techniques to analyze category fluency and triad comparison data) employed to suggest increased variability is attributable to semantic deficits fail statistical requirements concerning consistent and reliable variability across participants (). This renders many techniques ill-suited for clinical populations where there is an ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204755 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204749&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005611%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Schizophrenia patients with prominent positive symptoms were unable to integrate cognitive and emotional components of decision making which may contribute to their inability to generate adaptive behaviours in social and individual environments. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204749 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079237&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005994%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079237 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:15:47 +0100 3079237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079236&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900588X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079236 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:15:47 +0100 3079236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079235&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005878%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079235 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:15:47 +0100 3079235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079218&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005799%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079218 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:15:45 +0100 3079218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204733&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005544%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined these measures obtained on structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at baseline and one year on a series of offspring of schizophrenia parents and healthy subjects.Methods: We measured cortical surface area, curvature and thickness using BRAINS2 on structural MRI scans acquired using 1.5T GE whole body scanner on all subjects. We examined the differences between study groups at baseline using mixed-effects models, and longitudinal trajectory of these measures using linear mixed-effects models.Results: At baseline, offspring of schizophrenia parents showed reduced gyral surface area in the fronto-parietal lobes along with increased sulcal curvature and parietal gyral cortical thinning compared to healthy subjects. Prospective follow up of these subjects for one year sho... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204733 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204729&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005490%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Objective: We assessed efficacy and tolerability of the injectable atypical antipsychotic paliperidone palmitate in delaying time-to-relapse in adults with schizophrenia.Methods: Eligible patients (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale [PANSS] total score (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204729 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204728&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005593%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study was designed to investigate the effect of mirtazapine added to risperidone as augmentation therapy in patients with chronic schizophrenia and prominent negative symptoms in a double-blind and randomized clinical trial. Eligible participants in the study were 40 patients with chronic schizophrenia with ages ranging from 19 to 49years. All patients were inpatients and were in the active phase of the illness, and met DSM-IV-TR criteria for schizophrenia. Patients were allocated in a random fashion 20 to risperidone 6mg/day plus mirtazapine 30mg/day and 20 to risperidone 6mg/day plus placebo. The principal measure of the outcome was Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). The mirtazapine group had significantly greater improvement in the negative symptoms and PANSS total score... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204728 Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204742&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005568%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Identifying those with poor premorbid functioning and prior histories of attempts could help clinicians target high-risk patients. Thus, greater attention to persons with both risk factors may form the basis for early interventions aimed towards reducing the risk for subsequent suicide attempts. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204742 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204748&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005532%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Efforts to identify differential or core cognitive deficits in schizophrenia have been made for several decades, with limited success. Part of the difficulty in establishing a cognitive profile in schizophrenia is the considerable inter-patient heterogeneity in the level of cognitive impairment. Thus, it may be useful to examine the presence of relative cognitive weaknesses on an intra-person level. In the present study we examined the rates of significant intra-person differences between crystallized verbal ability versus five other cognitive abilities among 127 persons with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and 127 demographically matched normal comparison (NC) subjects. We found that the rates of significant discrepancies above the NC group base-rates was significantly... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204748 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204738&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900557X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we examine if advanced parental age increased risk for ICD-10 diagnoses. We hypothesized that advanced parental age would increase risk for offspring psychotic disorders and mental retardation but not other ICD-10 diagnoses. We examined follow-up data for 30,965 subjects treated in outpatient psychiatric facilities between 1980 and 2007. Subjects were younger than 18years of age at their first outpatient visit. A comparison group was obtained from data on registered births in Spain from 1975.We compared parental age (maternal, paternal, combined) across diagnostic categories using ANOVA and logistic regression was used to estimate the risk of psychopathology in the offspring with advanced parental age (maternal, paternal, combined). Maternal and paternal ages were higher for ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204738 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204734&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005441%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Adolescents who would actually develop psychosis had a relatively low level of physical activity compared to their age mates. General recommendations for physical activity would be important for subjects at risk for developing psychosis in order to avoid detrimental effect of physical inactivity on overall health. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204734 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204732&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005453%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we used logistic regression (LR) to identify the combination of clinical signs and symptoms that maximized the discrimination between nonpsychotic first-degree RelSZSA (n=241) and controls (n=161). Three variables contributed significantly to optimizing this distinction: no close friends or confidants other than family members, social isolation and irritability. The combination of deviant LR scores and schizophrenia-spectrum psychotic disorders had greater sensitivity for identifying RelSZSA, 23.7%, than SPD and schizophrenia-spectrum psychotic disorders, 16%. Importantly, the diagnosis of SPD and deviant LR scores were not significantly correlated. Most individuals with deviant LR scores did not meet criteria for a diagnosis of SPD and only a minority of those who were diagn... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204732 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079222&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005015%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This study confirms that the negative subsyndrome of apathy is significantly related to poor functioning in FEP. Including negative symptoms and its subsyndromes in early detection strategies are warranted. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079222 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204743&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005477%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Clinical investigators have argued that the experience of a recent onset of psychosis is an event of such severity that it can lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or at least to PTSD symptoms. The traumagenic elements of the psychotic experience may relate to the distressing nature of psychotic symptoms, components of treatment, or both. However, this hypotheses has not been fully empirically evaluated. In particular, the importance of the DSM-IV A1 (perception of threat) and A2 (negative emotion at time of event) criteria for a traumatic event due to a psychotic episode has not been assessed. To address this question, 38 clients in treatment for recent onset of psychosis were interviewed to identify distressing experiences related to the episode, with PTSD assessed (in... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204743 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204756&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005398%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Social cognition performance has been extensively studied within the schizophrenic population since proposed a model relating mentalizing deficits and symptoms of the disorder. Moreover, recent research has suggested that social cognition is also impaired in unaffected relatives. Their deficits seem to be more pronounced when highly sophisticated tests are used (). (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204756 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204753&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005507%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Recent meta-analysis evidence supports the use of low frequency Repetitive Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) applied to left temporo-parietal cortex (TPC) for the treatment of anti-psychotic refractory auditory hallucinations (AH) (). (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204753 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204752&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004253%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The recent study by adds to the emerging body of research providing formal estimates of the heritability of neurocognitive traits. There are now at least seven published studies in the literature, using heterogeneous samples of schizophrenia and various neurocognitive tests, covariates and methods (). Although the findings of , using subjects aged 9–31years, demonstrate many similarities with the existing evidence, they also reveal some of the challenges facing this research area. Using Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines (SOLAR), the reported heritability estimates for four neurocognitive domains were only modest to moderate in the schizophrenia proband-unaffected sibling pairs, ranging from 0.00 to 0.43, consistent with the results of other studies. Notably, this is signifi... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204752 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204741&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005489%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The present findings suggest widespread reduction of cortical thickness, mostly in heteromodal cortices of fronto-temporal networks to be present at an early stage of schizophrenia. Taken together, the present morphometric data in first episode schizophrenia provide further evidence for potential neurodevelopmental deficits and disruption of cortical maturation in this disorder. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204741 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204739&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005428%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The lack of sex differences in the age at onset and the greater severity of medication-free symptoms bolster the hypothesis that PARS has a distinct etiopathology. It also suggests that female sex does not exert a protective effect on the course of PARS, as it may in other forms of schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204739 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079225&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005404%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Although these analyses do not rule out effects of antipsychotic medications on GM development in schizophrenia, they show no differential effect between clozapine and olanzapine on GM trajectory. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079225 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980989&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005386%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980989 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:38:10 +0100 2980989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980988&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005374%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980988 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:38:07 +0100 2980988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980944&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005295%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980944 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:38:02 +0100 2980944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079233&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004940%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The research paper by in July's issue of Schizophrenia Research examined the relationship between cannabis use and psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) in adolescents, finding a relationship between lifetime use and PLEs such as perceptual abnormalities. The authors report an unexpected yet interesting finding that frequent use was not related to PLEs. Specifically, using cannabis on a weekly basis at some point was not related to PLEs, and infrequent use in the past year was more strongly related to PLEs than frequent use in the past year. The authors provide three potential explanations for this result. Firstly, that those who experience psychotic symptoms with frequent use stop using cannabis. Secondly, those who use cannabis and do not consequently experience PLEs are more likely to go on... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079233 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251073&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004903%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study is to assess whether near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) measurement can distinguish schizophrenia patients from healthy subjects. Sixty patients with schizophrenia and sixty age- and gender-matched healthy controls were divided into two sequential groups. The concentration change in oxygenated hemoglobin (Δ[oxy-Hb]) was measured in the bilateral prefrontal areas (Fp1-F7 and Fp2-F8) during the Verbal Fluency Test (VFT) letter version and category version, Tower of Hanoi (TOH), Sternberg's (SBT) and Stroop Tasks.In the first group, schizophrenia patients showed poorer task performance on all tasks and less prefrontal cortex activation during all but the Stroop Task compared to healthy subjects. In the second group, schizophrenia patients showed poorer task perform... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251073 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3251073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079231&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005003%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Cognitive decline has been described in elderly patients with schizophrenia, but the underlying pathology remains unknown. Some studies report increases in plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, but there is no evidence for an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD) in elderly schizophrenics. Models of a decreased cerebral reserve suggest that increases in AD-related neuropathology below the threshold for a neuropathological diagnosis could be related to dementia severity in elderly schizophrenia patients. We tested this hypothesis in 110 autopsy specimens of schizophrenia patients, without a neuropathological diagnosis of AD or other neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, we assessed the effects of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) status, a known genetic risk factor for AD. Measures... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079231 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079230&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005027%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article (a) presents results of a prospective study of urbanicity and schizophrenia in Ireland and (b) reviews the literature relating to urbanicity and schizophrenia. We prospectively compared incidence of schizophrenia and other psychoses in urban and rural catchment areas (over 4years and 7years, respectively) using face-to-face, DSM-III-R diagnostic interviews. Incidence of schizophrenia in males was higher in urban compared to rural areas, with an age-adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) of 1.92 (1.52–2.44) for males and 1.34 (1.00–1.80) for females. Incidence of affective psychosis was lower in urban compared to rural areas for males (IRR 0.48; 0.34–0.67) and females (IRR 0.60; 0.43–0.83). These findings are consistent with the literature, which provides persuasive eviden... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079230 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079228&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409005039%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The dopamine D3 receptor (DRD3) has been suggested to be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. DRD3 has been tested for an association with schizophrenia, but with conflicting results. A recent meta-analysis suggested that the haplotype T–T–T–G for the SNPs rs7631540–rs1486012–rs2134655–rs963468 may confer protection against schizophrenia. However, almost all previous studies of the association between DRD3 and schizophrenia have been performed using a relatively small sample size and a limited number of markers. To assess whether DRD3 is implicated in vulnerability to schizophrenia, we conducted case–control association studies and performed an updated meta-analysis. In the first population (595 patients and 598 controls), we examined 16 genotyped singl... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079228 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079223&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004939%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study is part of the Danish ‘OPUS’ trial, a randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing ‘treatment as usual’ (standard treatment, ST) with ‘OPUS’ treatment. The Lancashire Quality of Life Profile (LQoLP), which is a combined objective and subjective instrument, was administered at baseline and after two years of treatment, N=280.Results: The intensive ‘OPUS’ treatment did not affect the quality of life measured by Lancashire QoLP in a significantly different way from the standard treatment (ST). There were no significant differences in quality of life between the ST group and the OPUS group concerning the 9 life domains. Quality of life correlated with psychopathology (both psychotic and negative symptoms) to a minor extent and more strongly with the affective balance ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079223 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079227&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004988%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The data suggest that the risks for LBW and SGA among mothers with schizophrenia are not affected by antipsychotic use. Women who receive treatment with typical antipsychotics during pregnancy are at slightly higher risk of preterm birth. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079227 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079226&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004927%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Atypical antipsychotic medications may reduce pituitary gland volume in a dose-dependent manner suggesting that atypical antipsychotic medication may support affected individuals to cope with stress associated with emerging psychotic disorders. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079226 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079221&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900499X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study sought to investigate the 2-year effects of an early behavioural intervention (EBI) designed to prevent antipsychotic-induced weight gain in first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients. Sixty-one FEP patients were randomized to receive either EBI or treatment-as-usual. Intention-to-treat and observed-cases analysis showed that patients in the EBI group gained significantly less weight than those allocated to routine care at intervention completion (3-month follow-up) with treatment effects maintained over 3months. Differences between groups were no longer significant by 12months. Weight-management interventions may need to be offered for longer periods to maintain preventative effects. Alternatively, booster sessions may need to be regularly delivered after intervention completion. (... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079221 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079220&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004952%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Findings indicate that patients' disabilities in different diagnostic groups seem to be of a similar quality and nature despite differences in their severity. The impact of psychopathology on disability seems to be more important than the one of diagnosis per se. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079220 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079224&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900485X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This naturalistic study attempted to determine the prevalence of prolonged QTc interval in a relatively large population of inpatients hospitalized with chronic schizophrenia, and to explore QTc relationship with demographic variables, metabolic parameters and prescribed treatments. All inpatients from a Spanish long-term psychiatric hospital were cross-sectionally investigated to determine the prevalence of QTc prolongation and metabolic syndrome. The sample with a DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia included 171 Caucasian inpatients, all of Spanish origin. A prolonged QTc interval was defined as >450ms in men and >470ms in women. The relationships between QTc and other continuous variables were assessed using a linear regression model with QTc as the dependent variable. Only 10 p... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079224 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079229&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004915%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The promoter region of the DAT1 gene may play a role in increasing susceptibility to schizophrenia, but does not affect the severity of psychotic symptoms in Han Chinese. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079229 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204730&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004708%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: In this 18-month randomized trial, there was no evidence of superiority of second-generation antipsychotics in relieving family burden. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204730 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980947&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004423%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between maximum dose of ziprasidone and time to discontinuation in the treatment of schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder in clinical practice.Method: The 2001–2006 MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Databases were analyzed for maximum ziprasidone doses achieved in patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder or bipolar disorder. Ziprasidone maximum-dose groups were defined as low (20–60mg/d), medium (61–119mg/d), or high (120–160mg/d). Patients receiving >160mg/d were excluded. Mean time to discontinuation was evaluated across propensity score-matched dosing groups. Cox proportional hazard models were used to adjust for confounding when comparing the high- and medium-dose ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980947 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980947 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204754&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004757%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Search for copy number variations in a monozygotic twin pair discordant for schizophrenia has identified a deletion between two cadherin (CDH12 and CDH18) genes on 5p14. This 11Kb deletion is present in the affected but not in the unaffected twin. The results are compatible with a cadherin hypothesis for schizophrenia and complement the recent publication in Nature that implicated CDH9 and CDH10 genes of the cadherin family in autism (Wang et al 2009). Do the two diseases share cadherin as a common pathway? (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204754 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204737&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004861%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: These findings are consistent with a neural inefficiency hypothesis in those at greatest risk for psychosis, and additionally suggest that baseline activation differences may predict symptomatic and functional outcome. These results highlight the need to further investigate the neural systems involved in conversion to psychosis, and how language disruption changes over time in at-risk adolescents. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204737 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079219&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004964%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study reports baseline and follow-up data from a naturalistic, prospective follow-up of 413 FEP patients treated at a specialist early psychosis centre. Assessments were conducted at treatment entry, initial symptom remission or stabilization, and long term follow-up. Binary logistic regression models were used to assess unadjusted and adjusted associations between early illness and sociodemographic characteristics and two outcome measures: any SA during follow-up; and multiple SAs.Results: Follow-up data were available for 282 participants. Sixty-one (21.6%) made a suicide attempt over the follow-up period, including 12 successful suicides. The following baseline risk factors increased the risk of any SA: history of self-harm (OR=4.27; p50% of the initial psychotic episode (OR=2.49; ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079219 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251069&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004745%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Recently, a great deal of interest has arisen in resting state fMRI as a measure of tonic brain function in clinical populations. Most studies have focused on the examination of temporal correlation between resting state fMRI low-frequency oscillations (LFOs). Studies on the amplitudes of these low-frequency oscillations are rarely reported. Here, we used amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and fractional ALFF (fALFF; the relative amplitude that resides in the low frequencies) to examine the amplitude of LFO in schizophrenia. Twenty-six healthy controls and 29 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder participated. Our findings show that patients showed reduced low-frequency amplitude in proportion to the total frequency band investigated (i.e., fALFF) in... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251069 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3251069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204740&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004897%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Purpose: To determine whether statistical analyses of quantitative MR imaging data, including morphological changes, mean diffusivity (MD), and fractional anisotropy (FA), could provide useful biomarkers in early stage of first-episode schizophrenia.Materials and methods: Twenty-three patients, who met all the criteria in the DSM-IV-TR category for schizophrenia excluding the duration of the disease (less than 6months of follow-up), were examined by MR imaging during the initial consultation. Nineteen of the 23 patients were finally diagnosed to have schizophrenia after a 6-month follow-up, and they were included in this study as having been in the early stage of first-episode schizophrenia. Nineteen healthy volunteers also underwent MR imaging as age-matched controls. Three-dime... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204740 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204736&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004885%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The chance of remission to a non-risk state was over fourfold higher than the chance of conversion to psychosis within a year of establishing UHR status. Our data underline that the commonly used symptoms to identify UHR patients are often transitory and may not capture the stable core of developing psychosis. This highlights the danger of provoking anxiety and stigmatization in mislabeled individuals and missing true at-risk patients who present features of the psychosis core, but who do not yet—or maybe never will—manifest positive symptoms. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204736 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079234&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004873%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report on a tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) () analysis of white matter fractional anisotropy (FA) differences between unmedicated patients with schizophrenia and controls. As a secondary and exploratory analysis, we also report on WM correlates of clinical measures (PANSS, SANS and Calgary depression scale) in the schizophrenia subgroup. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079234 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079232&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004848%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a case of a successful trial of topiramate in the treatment of concurrent cocaine dependence and schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079232 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3079232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980967&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004344%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Persons with Schizophrenia experience difficulties with Executive Functioning (EF) that affect independence and participation in activities. Specifically, EF impacts performance in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) that require flexible thinking and accommodation to complex environments. However, less is known how schizophrenia affects EF and individuals' performance in activities. IADL performance can be tested using a virtual reality (VR) environment that simulates real life activities. The purpose of this study was: 1) to examine the feasibility and validity of the Virtual Action Planning-Supermarket (VAP-S) to assess EF in persons with schizophrenia as compared to a standardized EF measure (the Behavioral Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome, BADS); 2) to compare ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980967 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980961&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004800%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined event-related evoked and induced delta and theta activity in 17 people with schizophrenia and 17 healthy controls in two go/no-go task variants. We analyzed stimulus-related and response-related oscillations associated with correct-hits, correct-rejects and false-alarms. Our results reveal a pattern of reduced delta and theta activity for task-relevant events in schizophrenia. The findings indicate that while low-frequency oscillations are increased in amplitude at rest, they are not coordinated effectively in schizophrenia during various information processing tasks including target-detection, response-inhibition and error-detection. This slow-oscillation coordination abnormality may help explain the decreased recruitment of brain areas seen in fMRI studies. (Source: Schizophr... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980961 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980951&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900468X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Obesity is a serious health issue for many patients with schizophrenia. There is a lack of predictors for and understanding of the development of obesity in the early phase of the illness. Therefore we investigated a set of routine biochemistry variables in blood as predictors of the development of obesity and weight gain over 5years in an observational cohort study of patients with first-episode schizophrenia (n=59). Twelve percent of the patients were obese at baseline and 37% were obese at the 5-year follow-up. The mean body mass index (BMI) change over 5years was a 4.1kg/m2 increase (4.5 SD). Obesity was predicted by baseline hemoglobin levels (odds ratio per standard deviation [OR/SD] 3.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4 to 7.5), red blood cell count (OR/SD 2.6, 95% CI 1.2 ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980951 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980960&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004794%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Patients with schizophrenia exhibit impairments in prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle response. Available data suggest that atypical antipsychotics may be more effective than typical antipsychotics in improving PPI deficits in schizophrenia. However, previous studies have used between-subjects rather than longitudinal within-subjects designs to demonstrate superiority of particular atypical antipsychotics over typical antipsychotics in improving PPI in patients with schizophrenia. This longitudinal within-subjects test–retest study was designed to evaluate changes in PPI and clinical symptoms in patients with schizophrenia after switching from the conventional antipsychotic zuclopenthixol to long-acting injectable risperidone. PPI was measured in 45 chronic male patients ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980960 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980950&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004824%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase α (ACACA) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (rs2229416) was significantly associated with hypertriglyceridemia, during exploration of antipsychotic direct effects on lipids. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) gene (rs1468271) and ACACB gene (rs2241220) SNPs were significantly associated with severe hypercholesterolemia. In the same sample (173 patients on olanzapine, quetiapine, chlorpromazine or mirtazapine [increasing the risk of hyperlipidemia] and 184 controls taking other antipsychotics), three (rs1266175, rs12453407 and rs9906543) of eight additional ACACA SNPs were significantly associated with hypertriglyceridemia in those taking drugs of interest, but not in controls. Five other ACACA SNPs, three additional NPY SNPs, and seven additional ACACB SNPs we... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980950 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980978&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004368%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion:: A data-driven subgroup of schizophrenia patients, characterized as lacking co-morbid depressive symptoms, is less heterogeneous with respect to neurodevelopmental etiology. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980978 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204757&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004782%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The recent paper by reporting olanzapine-induced dysfunction in glucose metabolism, enhanced visceral fat and reduced locomotor activity in female rats was highly interesting as it illustrated olanzapine's ability to replicate aspects of metabolic dysfunction in the rodent model in a similar manner to the human scenario. However, contrary to previous reports in the rat and the clinic, the authors reported no change in body weight or food intake following olanzapine treatment, questioning the validity of the rat model. For the past decade scientists have worked to establish a rodent model that mimics the side-effect of metabolic dysfunction induced by some atypical antipsychotic drugs in the clinic, and some important experimental considerations have surfaced as a result. In particular, the... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204757 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980979&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004812%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder were diagnostically stable and could be reliably classified at intake in a Chinese first-episode psychosis sample using the ICD-10 criteria. Diagnostic instability in the least prevalent categories of functional psychosis highlights the limitations of current taxonomies and calls for ongoing revision of diagnostic criteria. In the absence of biological marker, longitudinal validation across consecutive episodes is necessary for accurate diagnostic ascertainment. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980979 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980979 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980973&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004769%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we compared positive and negative smoking expectancies, and examined relationships between expectancies and intention to quit smoking, in smokers with schizophrenia (n=46), smokers with schizoaffective disorder (n=35), and smokers without psychiatric illness (n=71). In all three groups, reduction of negative affect was rated as the most important smoking expectancy and intention to quit smoking was systematically related to concerns about the health effects and social consequences of smoking. Compared to the other groups of smokers, those with schizoaffective disorder were more concerned with social expectancies and with the immediate negative physical effects of smoking. Results of this study suggest that challenging positive smoking expectancies and providing more tailored... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980973 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980958&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004770%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Alterations of verbal fluency may correlate with deficits of gray matter volume and hemispheric lateralization of language brain regions like the pars triangularis (PT) in schizophrenia. Examining non-psychotic individuals at high genetic risk (HR) for schizophrenia may clarify if these deficits represent heritable trait markers or state dependent phenomena. We assessed adolescent and young adult HR subjects (N=60) and healthy controls (HC; N=42) using verbal fluency tests and Freesurfer to process T1-MRI scans. We hypothesized volumetric and lateralization alterations of the PT and their correlation with verbal fluency deficits. HR subjects had letter verbal fluency deficits (controlling for IQ), left PT deficits (p=.00), (controlling ICV) and reversal of the L>R PT asymmetry no... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980958 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980956&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004356%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is associated with an increased susceptibility to develop schizophrenia. Despite a large body of literature documenting abnormal brain structure in 22q11DS, cerebral changes associated with brain maturation in 22q11DS remained largely unexplored. To map cortical maturation from childhood to adulthood in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, we used cerebral MRI from 59 patients with 22q11DS, aged 6 to 40, and 80 typically developing controls; three year follow-up assessments were also available for 32 patients and 31 matched controls. Cross-sectional cortical thickness trajectories during childhood and adolescence were approximated in age bins. Repeated-measures were also conducted with the longitudinal data. Within the group of patients with 22q11DS, exp... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980956 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980954&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004289%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Spatial working memory (SWM) dysfunction has been suggested as a trait marker of schizophrenia and implicates a diffuse network involving prefrontal, temporal and parietal cortices. However, structural abnormalities in both grey and white matter in relation to SWM deficits are largely unexplored. The current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study examined this relationship in a sample of young first-episode schizophrenia (FES) patients using a whole-brain voxel-based method.SWM ability of 21 FES patients and 41 comparable controls was assessed by the CANTAB SWM task. Using an automated morphometric analysis of brain MRI scans, we assessed the relationship between SWM abilities and both grey matter volume and white matter density in both groups.Our findings demonstrated the differ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980954 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980976&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004393%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Negative symptoms have consistently been found to contribute to functional impairment in schizophrenia. In this pilot study, we sought to delineate the core negative symptoms that contribute to this functional impairment. Adult outpatients with schizophrenia were evaluated for the severity of positive, negative, cognitive, and depressive symptoms. The Quality of Life Scale was used to assess current functioning. Results from 21 participants revealed that amotivation was the sole predictor of functioning, accounting for 74% of the variance in current functioning. This suggests that motivational deficits are the central link between negative symptoms and functional impairment in schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980976 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980953&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004721%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study we performed a cytoarchitectural assessment of the white matter adjacent to the planum temporale (PT), an auditory association region located within the superior temporal gyrus, in subjects with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and controls (15 subjects per group). Using two-dimensional measures, we recorded the cell density, distribution and size of all neurons and glial nuclei within this region. Glial density was lower in the schizophrenia group, relative to the control group. Neuronal density, neuronal size, and glial nuclear size did not differ between groups. No significant differences in neuronal clustering were observed in the patient groups. Further studies are required to examine whether the observed decrease in glial density within the sup... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980953 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980977&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004733%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Whereas family strengths and coping likely account for a significant portion of variability in DUP, both insight and caregiver strain probably evolve as a consequence of DUP. Efforts to strengthen families and tap into existing strengths of families in specific cultural groups would likely enhance early treatment-seeking for psychotic disorders. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980977 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980977 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980972&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900440X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Personality traits such as neuroticism are associated with schizophrenia and schizotypy. However, studies thus far have not clarified the differential association of neuroticism with individual schizotypy dimensions and the role it plays in the expression of schizophrenia-spectrum psychopathology. 204 nonclinically ascertained participants completed self-report questionnaires assessing neuroticism and the positive and negative schizotypy dimensions, and underwent structured interviews assessing schizophrenia-spectrum psychopathology (psychotic-like experiences, negative symptoms, cluster A personality disorders and traits), mood episodes, substance abuse, and global functioning. Results indicated that neuroticism predicted positive symptoms of schizophrenia and depression, over-a... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980972 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980955&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004290%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Many regions extensively studied in schizophrenia were not covered in the existing VCFS literature. However, the studies considered support volumetric abnormalities which may help explain why VCFS is associated with a greatly increased risk of psychosis and other psychiatric disorders. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980955 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980946&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004411%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: A moderate/severe impairment of processing speed, motor dexterity, verbal memory and cognitive flexibility was found in the largest sample of FE patients analyzed so far. The impairment was largely independent from psychopathology and not associated with DUP. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980946 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980945&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004381%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Substantial proportions of first-episode patients with schizophrenia showed clinically meaningful response and remission rates within 12months. The proportions of response and remission were higher for most SGAs as compared to haloperidol. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980945 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980968&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900437X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: “Theory of mind” (ToM) is the ability to judge the mental states of the self and others. It is currently considered as a part of the broader concept of social cognition, known to influence the social behaviour of patients affected by schizophrenia. Recently it has been hypothesized that the impairment of ToM is a trait that can be detected both in patients with schizophrenia and in non-psychotic relatives of patients, but it still not clear what the contribution of the familial patterns of cognitive impairment is.The aim of this study is to assess parental impairments of ToM performance considering the effects of the neurocognitive abilities known to be impaired in their first-degree relatives and to influence ToM in schizophrenic patients.Patients, their parents and control ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980968 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862293&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004642%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862293 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:01:25 +0100 2862293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862292&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004630%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862292 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:01:25 +0100 2862292 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862288&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004228%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study examined the relative importance of cognitive impairments measured with a neuropsychological battery, performance-based measures of social and everyday living skills, and positive and negative symptoms for the prediction of real-world outcomes in social and residential domains. In contrast to most previous studies, we examined the importance of individual symptoms, as well as total subscale scores, for predicting clinician rated outcomes in 194 older outpatients with schizophrenia. Symptoms were rated with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale; everyday living skills were measured by the UCSD Performance-based Skills Assessment; and social skills were measured with the Social Skills Performance Assessment. For prediction of real-world social outcomes, blunted affect and passi... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862288 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:01:25 +0100 2862288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862277&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003880%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The etiologic factors underlying schizophrenia have been conceptualized as reflecting two largely genetic components — those unique to schizophrenia and those representing vulnerability to neurodevelopmental deviation in general. The Developmental Instability (DI) approach suggests that the latter can be indexed by minor physical anomalies (MPAs), which assess early prenatal growth abnormalities, and fluctuating anatomic asymmetries (FA), which reflects later deviations. Individuals with schizophrenia (N=19) had elevated scores on both measures as compared to healthy controls (N=23). Further, MPAs and FA were very highly correlated in the sample of individuals with schizophrenia but not in controls. In order to identify neuroanatomic variation linked with the unique factor, we ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862277 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:01:24 +0100 2862277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862276&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004563%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862276 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:01:24 +0100 2862276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980984&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004320%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In their review, “Schizophrenia “just the facts” 4. Clinical features and conceptualization”, review the conceptualization of schizophrenia but state that the value of changing the name is “questionable” and “semantics”. I strongly disagree with this. The name schizophrenia needs to be urgently changed in the service of doctor patient communication, education and stigma reduction. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980984 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980975&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003673%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Given the elevated risk of cardiovascular morbidity among individuals with schizophrenia, our findings add to the importance of screening and intervention programs for metabolic disorders and known cardiovascular risk factors among patients with schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980975 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980966&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004332%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These findings suggest that the alterations in SST-containing interneurons in schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are selective for the subset that do not express NPY mRNA, and that lower NPY mRNA expression in the superficial white matter may distinguish subjects with schizoaffective disorder from those with schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980966 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980964&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004277%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: DTNBP1 is associated with schizophrenia in many studies, but the associated alleles and haplotypes vary between samples.Method: We assessed nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in this gene for association with schizophrenia in a new sample of 1021 cases and 626 controls from Ireland.Results: Four SNPs give evidence of association (0.000018 (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980964 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980957&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004265%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study investigates the specificity of brain structural abnormalities in schizophrenia by using region-of-interest method of volumetric analysis in a heterogeneous sample of schizophrenia spectrum patients at their first break of the illness. 225 subjects, comprising 82 schizophrenia patients, 36 schizophreniform disorder patients and 24 patients with non-schizophrenic non-affective psychoses, and 83 healthy individuals underwent a magnetic resonance imaging brain scan. Quantitative brain morphometric variables were assessed: cortical CSF, lateral ventricle, total brain tissue, white matter and cortical and subcortical gray matter volumes. The contribution of sociodemographic, cognitive and clinical characterictics was controlled. Compared with controls, schizophrenia (P=0.017) and sch... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980957 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980963&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004204%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Illness history variables in psychosis show a broad range of familial aggregation. It is likely that familial influences are predominantly modifying effects, independent of susceptibility factors for psychosis. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980963 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980948&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004307%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The current report assesses the clinical, functioning and demographic data of a cohort enrolled in the P3 prevention program for psychosis; a Spanish National Health System and Ministry of Science funded program. Comparisons are made between those individuals who had converted to psychosis and those who had not at 3years after an average of 24 treatment sessions. Subjects included 61 participants meeting Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes criteria, with ages ranging from 17 to 31, and all meeting criteria for ultra-high risk of psychosis. Prospective follow-up data are reported for patients re-evaluated at 1 and 3years. At 1-year follow-up, the conversion rate to psychosis was 18%, but increased to 23% at 3-year follow-up. The converted sample was older than the non-con... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980948 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204735&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004198%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Compared to controls, HR children showed more clinical symptoms and cognitive abnormalities. HR children with ADD had worse clinical symptoms than did HR without ADD, although there were no differences in terms of cognitive abnormalities. Both HR groups seem to have similar deficits in neuropsychological performance. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204735 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204744&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004241%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Future research might seek to intervene through an integrated treatment approach that incorporates supported education, symptom reduction and management, and comorbid substance use treatment in first-episode patients. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204744 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980949&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004319%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Background: Recent studies show that advanced paternal age (APA) is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. A body of evidence also suggests that individuals who develop schizophrenia show subtle deviations in a range of behavioural domains during their childhood. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between paternal and maternal ages and selected behavioural measures in children using a large birth cohort.Method: Participants were singleton children (n=21,753) drawn from the US Collaborative Perinatal Project. The outcome measures were assessed at 7years. The main analyses examined the relationship between parental age and behavioural measures when adjusted for a range of potentially co... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980949 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980949 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251074&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004216%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The present study suggests that schizophrenia patients have auditory gating deficits to human voices, specifically in the left hemisphere and auditory hallucinations of schizophrenia may be associated with sensory overload to human voices in the auditory cortex. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251074 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3251074 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862287&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003934%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Findings in the present study indicate that motivation plays a significant and mediating role between neurocognition, social cognition, and functional outcome. Potential psychosocial treatment implications are discussed, especially those that emphasize social cognitive and motivational enhancement. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862287 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862278&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900423X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Embryonic insults during early gestation increase the risk of schizophrenia. Abnormal forebrain development during this period is often characterized by a shallow olfactory sulcus. The adjacent orbital sulcus does not develop until the third trimester and so is immune to early intrauterine insults. We measured olfactory and orbital sulcal depths in 36 patients and 28 control subjects. Patients had shallower olfactory sulci, but normal orbital sulci. Olfactory and orbital sulcal depths were correlated in controls, but not in patients. Olfactory sulcal depth may therefore be a biomarker denoting an early embryonic disruption in individuals at risk for schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862278 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862280&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003946%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Few pharmacological intervention studies have examined the impact of medication on social cognition, particularly emotion perception. The goal of this randomized, double-blind study is to compare the effects of several second generation antipsychotics and a first generation antipsychotic, perphenazine, on emotion perception in individuals with schizophrenia. Patients were assigned to receive treatment with olanzapine, queitapine fumarate, risperidone, ziprasidone or perphenazine for up to 18months. Eight hundred and seventy three patients completed an emotion perception test immediately prior to randomization and after 2months of treatment. We also examined baseline predictors of emotion perception change. Most treatments were associated with a small, non-statistically significan... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862280 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204745&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003922%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: First-episode psychosis (FEP) patients show hyperactivity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, but the mechanisms leading to this are still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of stress and antipsychotic treatment on diurnal cortisol levels, and on cortisol awakening response, in FEP. Recent stressful events, perceived stress and childhood trauma were collected in 50 FEP patients and 36 healthy controls using structured instruments. Salivary cortisol was obtained at awakening, at 15, 30, and 60min after awakening, and at 12 and 8pm. Patients experienced more recent stressful events, perceived stress and childhood trauma than controls (p (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204745 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862289&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003909%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In vivo proton (1H) Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) has shown abnormalities in young first-episode patients with schizophrenia. It is unclear whether these abnormalities reflect trait related vs. state related alterations in schizophrenia. We compared young first-degree relatives of schizophrenia patients and healthy controls using 1H MRS. We hypothesized alterations in the 1H MRS metabolites N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) and glutamate in corticostriatal and thalamic brain regions. We obtained multi-voxel, short-TE 1H MRS measurements at 1.5 Tesla in 40 consenting adolescent offspring at risk for schizophrenia (HR), and 48 age matched healthy controls (HC). Absolute levels of NAA, phosphocreatine plus creatine (PCr+Cr), choline-containing compounds (GPC+PC), myo-inositol and ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862289 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785763&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409004083%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785763 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 18:32:53 +0100 2785763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204751&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003892%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Few studies have investigated the relationships between static, elementary neurocognitive functions, dynamic measures of learning potential and functional status in schizophrenia, despite the putative role of learning potential in models of the relationship between static neurocognitive function and functional status (e.g., Green et al., 2000). The current study sought to clarify these relationships. One-hundred and twenty-five outpatients with schizophrenia were administered the California Verbal Learning Test—II (CVLT-II), as an index of learning potential, along with measures of sustained attention, verbal prose recall, working memory, problem-solving and processing speed, and a capacity measure of everyday life skills (Study 1). A subset of 48 outpatients with schizophrenia... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204751 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204751 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204746&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003831%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Objectives: To demonstrate the ability of the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry (SCIP-S) to discriminate between cognitively-impaired individuals and those with adequate functioning in a sample of schizophrenic and bipolar patients, as well as in a control group.Methods: The SCIP-S, together with a full neuropsychological battery, was administered to three groups: patients with schizophrenia, patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder I, and controls. The battery scores were used to perform a standardization with respect to the control group and this served to determine the comparison groups (cognitively impaired versus unimpaired) for each of the subtests of the SCIP-S. A full analysis of decision validity was conducted on the basis of receiver operating characteristic... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204746 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862291&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003843%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The authors recently reported that extended release metformin administration for 14weeks significantly decreased body weight, serum insulin and the trygliceride/HDL-C ratio in patients undergoing prolonged clozapine administration (). We did not provide the gender distribution in this study, and it is a relevant data by itself, and for future comparisons. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862291 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862283&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900379X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Bi-acetylated l-stepholidine (l-SPD-A), a novel derivate of l-stepholidine (l-SPD), possesses a pharmacological profile of D1/5-HT1A agonism and D2 antagonism. In the present study, we examined the potential antipsychotic effect of l-SPD-A in a phencyclidine (PCP)-induced rat model of schizophrenia. Pretreatment with l-SPD-A blocked acute PCP-induced hyperlocomotion and reversed prepulse inhibition (PPI) deficits. Chronic l-SPD-A administration (i.p., 10mg/kg/day for 14days) improved social interaction and novel object recognition impairments in rats that were pretreated with PCP (i.p., 5mg/kg/day for 14days). Moreover, in a conditioned avoidance response (CAR) test, l-SPD-A, with either i.p. or oral administration, significantly decreased active avoidance without affecting the e... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862283 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204750&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003879%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been described as important for maintaining and implementing contextual information in the service of goal-oriented behavior. Accordingly, impairments in context processing are thought to underlie cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia, a clinical disorder that has been linked to PFC dysfunction (Servan-Schreiber et al., 1996). However, task switching, a cognitive ability linked to PFC function, has not been consistently impaired in schizophrenia. In this experiment, we assessed whether task-switching performance would be selectively impaired for patients when context demands were high. In the rule-switching condition, a switch required the updating of the relevant task response rules whereas perceptual switching did not entail a switchin... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204750 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3204750 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980982&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003867%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Weight loss has been reported in patients switching treatment from olanzapine (OLZ) in the standard oral tablet formulation to OLZ in the orally disintegrating tablet formulation. (). Significant differences in weight change between patients treated with the standard oral tablets and patients treated with the orally disintegrating tablets have also been observed (). However, results from the Placebo and Active Comparator Trial of Olanzapine Zydis Pills Used Sublingually (PLATYPUS), a larger double-blind, double-dummy study comparing these 2 formulations, found no significant difference between treatment groups in mean weight change (). We conducted an open-label study in healthy volunteers randomly assigned to receive OLZ as orally disintegrating tablets (OLZ ODT) or as standard oral table... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980982 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980952&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003818%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Grey matter volume of the frontal, temporal, parietal and cerebellar areas that are known to be involved in the co-ordination of mental activity, cognitive flexibility, and verbal learning and memory predict responsiveness to CBTp in patients with psychosis. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980952 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862290&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900382X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with interest the article by recently published in Schizophrenia Research. The authors used proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (H-MRS) to acquire absolute concentrations of brain metabolites in subjects with a high genetic risk of schizophrenia to investigate the potential relationship between genetic liability to schizophrenia and neuronal dysfunction. Relative to the controls, the high genetic risk group showed significant reduction in absolute metabolite levels in the N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine, and choline spectra of the thalamus, while no differences in metabolite concentrations were observed in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex or in the anterior cingulate cortex. They concluded that NAA changes in thalamus may be a vulnerability marker for schizophrenia, while al... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862290 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862279&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003776%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The present findings do not support asymmetry differences for this severe, early form of schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862279 Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862285&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003247%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The proportion of patients in recovery increased among those fulfilling SR criteria. After 1year, in addition to known factors like shorter DUP and better PA, social cognitive abilities and depressive symptoms were found to correlate with recovery. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862285 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980965&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003806%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we searched for genetic variants in the putative core promoter region and 12 exons (including UTR ends) of the VGLUT1 gene using direct sequencing in a sample of Han Chinese schizophrenic patients (n=376) and non-psychotic controls (n=368) from Taiwan, and conducted a case-control association study. We identified two common SNPs (g.-248G>C (ss159695612) and c.2697C>A (rs1043558)) in the VGLUT1 gene. No differences in the allele and genotype frequencies were detected between the patients and control subjects. Besides, we identified eight patient-specific rare variants in 16 out of 376 patients, including two variants (g.-296A>G (ss159695611) and g.-32Cv>T (ss159695613)) at the core promoter region and 5′UTR, two missense variants (L516M (ss159695617) and P551S (ss159695618)... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980965 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251078&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003764%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs) are a family of molecules that are essential for regulation of synaptic glutamate levels. The EAATs may also be regulated by N-glycosylation, a posttranslational modification that is critical for many cellular functions including localization in the plasma membrane. We hypothesized that glycosylation of the EAATs is abnormal in schizophrenia. To test this hypothesis, we treated postmortem tissue from the dorsolateral prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortices of patients with schizophrenia and comparison subjects with deglycosylating enzymes. We then measured the resulting shifts in molecular weight of the EAATs using Western blot analysis to determine the mass of glycans cleaved from the transporter. We found evidence for less glyco... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251078 Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3251078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785774&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003752%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Formal thought disorder (TD) is a core symptom in schizophrenia, but the underlying neurocognitive mechanisms have yet to be determined. This pilot study tested the hypothesis that unconscious semantic activation in conceptual memory is increased in thought disordered patients with schizophrenia. Twenty-eight right-handed individuals with a DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizophreniform disorder (2 patients) and 14 healthy comparison participants performed lexical decisions on target words that were preceded by semantically related and unrelated unconsciously perceived masked prime words (masked priming paradigm). Fourteen patients showed more severe thought disorder symptoms (TD patients), 14 patients showed weaker TD symptoms (non-TD patients). Groups did not differ sign... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785774 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980959&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003375%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report here the first study comparing NGF levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma from a unique patient cohort (unmedicated, early psychotic patients with similar racial and dietary patterns) and matched healthy controls. Significantly lower levels of NGF in both CSF (p=0.038) and plasma (p=0.002) were observed in drug-naïve first-episode psychosis patients as compared to controls. The levels of NGF in the CSF correlated (p=0.05) to the plasma values in controls. The data on plasma NGF confirm the reported deficits of NGF in drug-naïve first-episode psychosis. The reduced levels first time observed here may have important implications to repeatedly reported neurobiological and clinical deficits which are discussed. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980959 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785787&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003697%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes There is much literature about methods for the detection and assessment of illicit substances. The most common methods tend to fall into those made by self report (), information gathered from informants () and biochemical methods e.g. analysis of hair samples and urine testing (). Reliability and validity of these methods are variable and vary across substances (e.g. ). Substance use is a significant problem for people with schizophrenia although there has been little investigation of assessment methods for this population. General findings suggest that self report methods may have advantages over biochemical methods. The Time Line Follow Back self report method (TLFB; ) has been used in non-psychosis populations and has good reliability and validity. It has not been used extensively with... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785787 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785783&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003703%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Differences in callosal size between schizophrenia patients and healthy subjects seen at baseline continue to widen in the chronic phase of the illness, especially in patients with poor functional outcome. Baseline differences in callosal anisotropy among patients with different outcomes, however, diminish over time. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785783 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785772&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003296%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Prospective memory (PM) is the ability to remember to carry out an intended action in the future and it is an important function for everyday living. Studies have found that the neural basis of PM is located mainly in the prefrontal lobes (particularly in Brodmann Area 10) and patients with schizophrenia have functional deficits in this area. The present study provided a meta-analytic review of PM performances in patients with schizophrenia in 11 studies. A total of 485 patients with schizophrenia and 409 controls were included. Results showed that patients with schizophrenia exhibited impairments in all time- (d=−1.33), event- (d=−0.827), and activity-based (d=−0.729) PM, with time-based PM more impaired than event-based PM. In addition, PM was found to be significantly co... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785772 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862284&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003740%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A substantial number of patients who meet criteria for a prodromal syndrome for first psychosis are treated with antipsychotic and/or antidepressant medications. There is suggestive evidence that both classes of medication may reduce prodromal symptoms. This longitudinal study examined the relation of antipsychotic and antidepressant medication with prodromal symptom severity at baseline and 6-month follow-up. Participants met Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS) criteria for the prodrome, and were evaluated at eight centers as part of the North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study (NAPLS). Symptom ratings (positive, negative, disorganized and general) and data on antipsychotics, SSRIs, and other antidepressant medications were obtained at baseline and 6-month foll... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862284 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980974&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003685%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Individuals with schizophrenia have higher plasma nicotine levels in comparison to non-psychiatric smokers, even when differences in smoking are equated. This difference may be related to how intensely cigarettes are smoked but this has not been well studied. Mecamylamine (MEC), a non-competitive nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonist, which has been shown to increase ad-lib smoking and to affect smoking topography, was used in the current study as a pharmacological probe to increase our understanding of smoking behavior, smoking topography, and resulting nicotine levels in smokers with schizophrenia. This preliminary study used a within-subject, placebo-controlled design in smokers with schizophrenia (n=6) and healthy control smokers (n=8) to examine the effects of ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980974 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980987&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003351%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Research has shown that people with schizophrea report experiencing similar levels of emotion compared to people without schizophrenia when presented with evocative stimuli (). However, people with schizophrenia also report experiencing more negative emotion in response to putatively neutral or positive evocative stimuli () and more trait negative emotion than healthy controls (), highlighting the fact that emotions differ in daily life contexts where the ambiguity of events and stimuli are much greater. Experience sampling (ESM) studies have found that people with schizophrenia report being alone more often, more negative and slightly less positive emotion, and daily life stress is associated with negative emotion than people without schizophrenia (). (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980987 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785785&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003387%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Sertindole, a 2nd generation antipsychotic with low movement disorder side effects, was compared with haloperidol in a 6-week crossover study. Fifteen patients with schizophrenia (mean age=42.6, range=22–59, 11 men and 4 women) received sertindole (12–24mg) or haloperidol (4–16mg) for 6weeks and then received a FDG-PET scan and an anatomical MRI. Patients were then crossed to the other treatment and received a second set of scans at week 12. Dose was adjusted by a physician blind to the medication type. Brodmann areas were identified stereotaxically using individual MRI templates applied to the coregistered FDG-PET image. Sertindole administration was associated with higher dorsolateral prefrontal cortex metabolic rates than haloperidol and lower orbitofrontal metabolic rat... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785785 Wed, 19 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785765&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900334X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Breast cancer may be increased in female subjects with schizophrenia. Inconsistencies in study findings may be due to methodological issues such as low statistical power and the age range of cohorts studied. There is no proven risk factor to explain these data; however reduced parity and hyperprolactinaemia may represent putative aetiological factors. Consideration of screening of female patients with schizophrenia for breast cancer is important for clinicians and researchers. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785765 Wed, 19 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980962&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002849%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: The present results confirm the correlation of negative symptoms with power of slow frequency bands. In addition to previous studies in chronic schizophrenia patients, the effect was shown in NNFE, which is compatible with augmented slow wave power being a marker for negative symptoms in psychosis. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980962 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785786&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003338%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Compared to bilateral or sham stimulation, rTMS of the left temporo-parietal region appears most effective in reducing auditory hallucinations, and additionally may have an effect on general psychopathology. Placebo effects should however not be ruled out, since sham stimulation also led to improvement on a number of AVH parameters. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785786 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785782&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003399%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Schizophrenia is a disabling illness, characterized by a heterogeneous course including clinical deterioration and poor outcome. Accumulating findings in schizophrenia suggest that it might involve two pathophysiologic processes, one early in life (neurodevelopmental), and one after onset of the illness (neurodegenerative). Longitudinal imaging studies after onset of the illness may help to clarify these pathophysiological aspects of schizophrenia, but so far, probably due to methodological differences, there have been no conclusive results. The present study sets out to investigate longitudinal gray matter changes in patients with first-episode schizophrenia relative to healthy subjects over the first 4 years of the illness and the relation of gray matter changes in patients wi... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785782 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785779&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003363%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: These findings highlight related abnormalities of the anterior hippocampus and OFC in schizophrenia, which may shed light on the pathophysiology of the disorder. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785779 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785779 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785768&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003302%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe neuropsychiatric disorder with a strong genetic basis. We analyzed eight GABRG2 and one DRD5 tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms for association with SCZ in 109 small nuclear families and 229 independent SCZ case-control pairs. The marker rs183294 in the 5′ region of GABRG2 was found to be associated with SCZ in both samples with the C allele over-represented in SCZ cases and over-transmitted in SCZ families (combined z=9.18; p (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785768 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785764&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002904%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Advanced paternal age has been widely cited as a risk factor for schizophrenia among offspring and even claimed to account for one-quarter of all cases. We carried out a new study on 25,025 offspring from the Collaborative Perinatal Project (CPP), including 168 diagnosed with psychosis and 88 with narrowly defined schizophrenia. We also conducted a meta-analysis of this and nine other studies for which comparable age-cohort data were available. The mean paternal age for the CPP cases was slightly, but not significantly, higher than the matched controls (p=0.28). Meta-analyses including these new results were conducted to determine the relative risk associated with alternative definitions of advanced paternal age (35, 45 or 55years and older). These yielded pooled odds ratios and ... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785764 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862282&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003326%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the clozapine and quetiapine induced impairments in glucose tolerance in rats are independent of insulin resistance caused by obesity and that these defects are linked with a suppression of GLP-1 levels. These studies suggest the need to perform follow up studies in humans to determine whether clozapine and quetiapine induce acute derangements in glucose metabolism and whether GLP-1 replacement therapy might be the most appropriate therapeutic strategy for treating derangements in glucose metabolism in subjects taking these drugs. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862282 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688511&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003661%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688511 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:32:22 +0100 2688511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688510&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900365X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688510 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:32:22 +0100 2688510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688480&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003570%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688480 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:32:17 +0100 2688480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785771&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003284%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Diverse psychopathology is commonly present in families of FEP patients and may imply a generalized vulnerability to psychiatric disorders to be greater in such families compared to specific vulnerability to SS or affective psychosis. These findings may also have implications for provision of care for the probands. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785771 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862286&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003260%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study examines the relationship between having achieved cross-sectional remission and the need for future psychiatric and nursing home care. The study is a prospective long-term follow-up of patients with schizophrenia.Materials and methods: Cross-sectional remission was defined by applying the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) criteria requiring that none of the eight core positive and negative symptom items are scored greater than mild. Patients are followed-up by yearly clinical examinations and medical record review. Information on consumption of healthcare resources and residency status were also gathered. Visits to mental health professionals, number and duration of inpatient psychiatric or nursing home admissions were also recorded. The patients are enrolled in a 12y... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862286 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2862286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785767&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003235%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Although the functional significance of these mutations remains to be characterized, our study indicates that rare mutations in the GRIN3A gene may contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia in certain patients. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785767 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785776&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003314%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Our preliminary data suggests that the correlation between sensorimotor gating (PPI) and prefrontal executive cognitive functioning (WCST) is enhanced by acute cigarette smoking in schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785776 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2980971&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS092099640900293X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Patients with schizophrenia often exhibit structural brain abnormalities, as well as neurological soft signs (NSS), consistent with its conceptualization as a neurodevelopmental disorder. NSS are mild, presumably nonlocalizing, neurological impairments that are inferred from performance deficits in domains such as sensory integration, motor coordination, and motor sequencing. The vulnerability for schizophrenia is presumed to be expressed across a broad continuum of impairment referred to as schizotypy. It is hypothesized that nondisordered people along the schizotypy continuum should exhibit elevated rates of NSS. The present study examined the relation of psychometrically identified positive and negative schizotypy with NSS using the Neurological Evaluation Scale in a nonclinic... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2980971 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2980971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785781&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002965%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study is to determine whether a specific brain regional pattern of disruption of WM integrity is shared by schizophrenia patients and their healthy siblings. We investigated brain white matter abnormalities by voxel-based analysis of white matter FA data acquired from diffusion tensor imaging in 34 pairs of schizophrenia patients and their healthy siblings, as well as in 32 healthy controls. Both schizophrenia patients and their healthy siblings showed reduced white matter FA in the left prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus in comparison to healthy controls, without significant difference between patients and siblings. In marked contrast, only schizophrenia patients exhibited reduced white matter FA in the left anterior cingulate cortex in comparison to both siblings... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785781 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785781 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785773&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002953%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In healthy people, enacting actions by manipulating objects improves memory compared to verbal encoding of the description of the same actions. We used this paradigm to test memory for actions in 40 stable schizophrenia participants and 24 healthy volunteers. Three encoding conditions were used and consisted of action sentences that were: 1) self-performed by the participants, 2) performed by an experimenter (observed), or 3) encoded verbally. Memory for those actions was tested in two formats. First a cued-recall task with the object as a retrieval cue was administered. Secondly source recognition was examined by asking the participants to decide in which of the three conditions each action was encoded. On cued-recall, schizophrenia participants largely benefited from self-enact... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785773 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785770&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003272%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report the association of TCF7L2 (rs7903146) with T2D under both additive and recessive models for the risk allele T. Specifically, the odds ratio (OR) for having T2D was 1.4 (p=0.03) under an additive model and 2.4 (p=0.004) under a recessive model. We also report a marginally significant TCF7L2 by AP treatment interaction that should be investigated in future studies. CAPN10 (rs3792267) was marginally associated with T2D with OR=1.5 (p=0.08) when considering the model GG vs. AG/AA with risk allele G. ENPP1 (rs1044498) was not associated with T2D. We conclude TCF7L2, a risk factor for T2D in the general population, is also a risk factor for T2D in African-American patients with SCZ or schizoaffective disorder. Research is needed to determine if T2D associated polymorphisms are of inter... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785770 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785784&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002916%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Functional and structural abnormalities were observed in areas affected by the schizophrenic process early in the illness course, and known to be crucial for social cognition, suggesting a biological basis for social cognition deficits in schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785784 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785769&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002941%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Convergent evidence from genetic linkage, genetic association and biological studies implicates the Disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) gene in the etiology and pathophysiology of schizophrenia. We conducted genetic association studies in matched case-control and family sample sets (N=117 families; N=210 case-control pairs), testing polymorphisms across DISC1 and DISC1 interacting genes: LIS1, NUDEL, FEZ1 and PDE4B. We found that DISC1 variants, particularly in the exon 9/intron 9/intron 10 region of the gene, may be associated with risk for schizophrenia in our sample population. There was no strong evidence for association with LIS1, NUDEL, FEZ1 and PDE4B. Gene–gene interaction analyses and mRNA quantification in post-mortem brains from schizophrenia patients and control sub... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785769 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2785766&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409003259%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Objectives: Gender differences in psychotic disorder have been observed in terms of illness onset and course; however, past research has been limited by inconsistencies between studies and the lack of epidemiological representative of samples assessed. Thus, the aim of this study was to elucidate gender differences in a treated epidemiological sample of patients with first episode psychosis (FEP).Methods: A medical file audit was used to collect data on premorbid, entry, treatment and 18-month outcome characteristics of 661 FEP consecutive patients treated at the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre (EPPIC), Melbourne, Australia.Results: Prior to onset of psychosis, females were more likely to have a history of suicide attempts (p=.011) and depression (p=.001). At s... Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2785766 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2785766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688507&cid=s_36250_172_f&fid=36250&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schres-journal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0920996409002813%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, schizophrenia patients exhibited less evoked beta 1 power (12–20Hz) in response to salient stimuli at S1, and lower N100 amplitude in response to all S1 stimuli. No group differences were found in the low, beta 2 (20–30Hz), or gamma frequency ranges. These findings suggest aberrant sensory processing during stages of stimulus evaluation and saliency detection in schizophrenia. (Source: Schizophrenia Research) Schizophrenia Research journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688507 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2688507