2 Hz) with fast (2 s) inspiration (0.2 Hz). Pain ratings were not affected by breathing patterns (p = 0.3), but were significantly lower during inspiration compared with expiration (p = 0.02). This phase effect was also observed on the N100 component of SEP’s, but only in the 0.1-Hz-FastIns condition (p = 0.03). In contrast, QNZ in vitro RIII-reflex amplitude was greater during inspiration compared with expiration (p = 0.02). It was also decreased in the 0.1Hz-SlowIns compared with the 0.2-Hz condition (p = 0.01). Slow breathing

also increased the amplitude of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), although these changes were not significantly associated with changes in pain responses. In conclusion, this study shows that pain and pain-related brain activity may be reduced during inspiration but these changes are dissociated from spinal nociceptive transmission. The small amplitude of these effects suggests that factors other than respiration contribute to the analgesic effects of relaxation and meditation techniques. (C) 2013 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.”
“Abnormal fatty acid composition in neural membranes, that is, the balance

between essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPUFAs) and saturated fatty acids, has been suggested to be related to the psychotic symptoms and cognitive impairment of schizophrenia. This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that the ability of atypical antipsychotic drugs to ameliorate positive symptoms Selleck Epoxomicin and cognitive Silibinin function relevant to daily living would be predicted by baseline EPUFAs concentrations

in the erythrocyte membrane in subjects with schizophrenia. A total of 24 actively psychotic patients with schizophrenia participated in the study. After blood drawing, they were treated with olanzapine or perospirone. The Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS) and the Scale for Assessment of Negative symptoms (SANS), as well as the script tasks, a measure of event schema recognition, were administered at baseline and 3 months after the start of treatment. Erythrocyte membrane fatty acid levels were analysed using a gas chromatography system. Scores of SAPS and SANS, as well as script task performance, were improved during treatment with either antipsychotic drug. Regression analysis indicates baseline EPUFAs concentrations were positively and negatively related with percent improvement of positive symptoms and script task performance, respectively. The results of this study suggest composition of phospholipids in the erythrocyte membrane provide a feasible marker to predict treatment response in patients with schizophrenia. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.”
“Purpose: We applied the R.E.N.A.L.