Bipolar disorders

Bipolar disorder is characterized by (hypo)manic episodes and depressive episodes which alternate with euthymic periods. It causes serious disability with poor outcome, increased suicidality risk, and significant societal costs. This chapter describes the findings of the PET/SPECT research efforts and the current ideas on the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder. First, the cerebral blood flow and cerebral metabolism findings in the prefrontal cortex, limbic system, subcortical structures, and other brain regions are discussed, followed by an overview of the corticolimbic theory of mood disorders that explains these observations. Second, the neurotransmitter studies are discussed. The serotonin transporter alterations are described, and the variation in study results is explained, followed by an overview of the results of the various dopamine receptor and transporter molecules studies, taking into account also the relation to psychosis. Third, a concise overview is given of dominant bipolar disorder pathophysiological models, proposing starting points for future molecular imaging studies. Finally, the most important conclusions are summarized, followed by remarks about the observed molecular imaging study designs specific for bipolar disorder.</p

Advice for festive drinkers

The incidence of tooth wear is rising, worldwide, with extrinsic and intrinsic erosion being involved in many cases. A variety of drinks have been considered to be implicated, for example, fresh fruit juices, carbonated beverages, alcoholic drinks and energy/sports drinks. However, there are a number of beverages which do not appear to have been tested, such as sparkling wines and various types of champagne and sparkling fruit juice, these being drinks that are typically consumed at times of celebration such as religious festivals, birthdays, etc. It is therefore the purpose of this paper to test the acidity of these festive drinks and to provide advice to consumers thereof.</p

Longitudinal population-based studies of affective disorders: where to from here?

Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/61000/1/beard_longitudinal population-based studies_2008.pd

Bipolar Disorders

PET and SPECT in Psychiatry showcases the combined expertise of renowned authors whose dedication to the investigation of psychiatric disease through nuclear medicine technology has achieved international recognition. The classical psychiatric disorders as well as other subjects – such as suicide, sleep, eating disorders, and autism – are discussed and the latest results in functional neuroimaging are detailed. Most chapters are written jointly by a clinical psychiatrist and a nuclear medicine expert to ensure a multidisciplinary approach. This state of the art compendium will be valuable to all who have an interest in the field of neuroscience, from the psychiatrist and the radiologist/nuclear medicine specialist to the interested general practitioner and cognitive psychologist. It is the first volume of a trilogy on PET and SPECT imaging in the neurosciences; other volumes will focus on PET and SPECT in neurology and PET and SPECT of neurobiological systems