Schizotypal disorder and schizophrenia: a profile analysis of neuropsychological functioning in Japanese patients.

This study compares neuropsychological functioning in a Japanese schizophrenia spectrum disorder group and a group of healthy Japanese volunteers. Participants were 37 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia, 28 schizotypal patients, and 99 psychiatrically-normal volunteers. A wide range of cognitive measures were examined. All participants completed a Japanese version of a neuropsychological battery assessing executive function, working memory, processing speed, language, verbal memory, and spatial organization. Comparisons of neuropsychological function demonstrated similarities and differences between patients diagnosed with schizotypal disorder and those diagnosed with schizophrenia. Impairments in verbal memory, language, and processing speed were common to both patient groups and may represent a vulnerability to schizophrenia. Impairments in aspects of working memory, spatial organization and executive function were preferentially observed in schizophrenia and may be features of the overt manifestation of psychosis. Possible differences in the contributions of prefrontal and temporo-limbic structures provide direction for further studies.     

Percutaneous absorption of 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-nitrophenol (DBNP) in isolated perfused porcine skin.

DBNP (2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-nitrophenol) has been reported as a potential contaminant in submarines. This yellow substance forms when lubrication oil mist containing the antioxidant additive 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol passes through an electrostatic precipitator and is nitrated. Percutaneous absorption of 14C-DBNP was assessed in the isolated perfused porcine skin flap (IPPSF). Four treatments were studied (n=4 flaps/treatment): 40.0 microgram/cm(2) in 100% ethanol; 40.0 microgram/cm(2) in 85% ethanol/15% H(2)O; 4.0 microgram/cm(2) in 100% ethanol; and 4.0 microgram/cm(2) in 85% ethanol/15% water. DBNP absorption was minimal across all treatment groups, with the highest absorption detected being only 1.08% applied dose in an aqueous ethanol group. The highest mass of 14C-DBNP absorbed was only 0.5 microgram. The majority of the applied dose remained on the surface of the skin. This suggests that there is minimal dermal exposure of DBNP when exposed topically to skin.     

Effects of Pravastatin on Plasma Lipid Concentrations in Poloxamer 407-Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats

A new animal model of hyperlipidemia is being developed using the nonionic surfactant poloxamer 407 (P-407). We investigated the impact of pravastatin on P-407-induced hyperlipidemia. Twenty rats received P-407 300 mg intraperitoneally to induce hyperlipidemia, and 20 control rats received saline injection. Pravastatin was administered orally to an equal number of rats in both groups using three different regimens. A fourth group did not receive pravastatin. At 24 hours after injection, total cholesterol levels in two of the pravastatin groups were 28% and 34% lower than those in animals that did not receive pravastatin (p≤0.01). At 48 hours, triglyceride levels were significantly lower in all pravastatin groups (21–44%) versus animals not receiving pravastatin. Pravastatin diminished the effects of P-407 on lipoproteins. This new animal model may be useful in screening for investigational antihyperlipidemic agents.     

Return of sexual functioning following penile replant surgery

The penis, scrotum, and testicles of a 31-year-old man were cut off in a fight. Fourteen hours later the penis and one testicle were reattached, but the testicle later had to be removed. By 3 weeks normal urinary function returned but the penis was misshapen. The patient had suicidal intentions. His partner was sexually supportive but afraid to touch the penis. By 10 weeks penile swelling occurred in response to a movie with frank sexual content. By 12 weeks the penile swelling was sufficient for entry but the partner was acutely afraid that her vaginal contractions would tear the scars. The man was concerned because he experienced only mild sexual tensions. Physical examination reassured both, and they gained hope for recovery. At 16 weeks erections were still not full but active intercourse was attempted and he experienced seminal seepage and mild orgasmic sensations; she was relaxed enough to have orgasm. Testosterone was administered at regular intervals from the 19th week on, with immediate improvement of erection. By 32 weeks full erection, ejaculation, and orgasmic functions returned and the couple resumed their normal sexual practices.     

Uropathogenicity in rats and mice of Providencia stuartii from long-term catheterized patients

Providencia stuartii, a frequent and persistent isolate from the urinary tract of chronically catheterized elderly patients, is multiply antibiotic resistant and may cause fatal bacteremia in those patients. We studied P. stuartii strains in rats and mice to determine differences in uropathogenicity. Strains studied varied in expression of factors which contribute to pathogenicity of other bacterial species. Urinary tract responses following challenge with P. stuartii strain HO (factors expressed) were similar to responses reported for uropathogenic E. coli strains both in bacterial persistence and histologic change. In animals similarly challenged with P. stuartii strain RO (factors not expressed), responses were similar to those reported for non-uropathogenic E. coli strains. Results indicate that: a) animal model studies may be useful in differentiating P. stuartii strains based on uropathogenicity, b) P. stuartii uropathogenicity may be related to identifiable factors associated with virulence in other species, and c) the CBA mouse model appears to be the most suitable for studies of P. stuartii uropathogenicity.