Tesi su sclerosi multipla e alessitimia, help!

[TheGathering]

Eccomi qui!
Ormai la tesi della triennale l'ho rimossa, non ricordo minimamente da dove partire, come fare la ricerca bibliografica, ma ce la farò, grazie al cielo, sul sito della biblioteca della mia uni (Padova) ci sono molte indicazioni e presto me le stamperò..
Ma nel frattempo vi chiedo se per caso qualcuno di voi avesse letto articoli o libri che parlino della sclerosi multipla sotto l'aspetto eziopatogenetico psicologico, se conoscete associazioni di parenti o malati che secondo voi sarebbero disponibili a fornirmi soggetti affetti dalla malattia per compilare dei questionari, se avete avuto a che fare con ospedali di Milano o dintorni e Padova che hanno trattato la malattia in modo competente e a cui mi consigliereste di chiedere per reperire il campione...

Scusate ma devo iniziare da qualche parte e questo post sarà il mio inizio..


Buone vacanze a chi le fa

[willy61]

Cortical atrophy and personality in multiple sclerosis.. Benedict, Ralph H. B.; Hussein, Sarah; Englert, Jessica; Neuropsychology, Vol 22(4), Jul 2008. pp. 432-441. [Journal Article] Abstract: Although the cognitive disorder of multiple sclerosis (MS) is well characterized, little is known about personality changes that may occur in this disease. There are reliable personality tests available for research in neurological disease, based on the well-known Five Factor Model. Preliminary research suggests that cognitively impaired MS patients exhibit elevation in Neuroticism, and diminution in Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness, as do patients with Alzheimer's disease. We predicted that these characteristics would be associated with lower neocortical volume. We studied 44 patients using brain MRI and the NEO Five-Factor Inventory. Regression models controlling for T2 lesion volume, depression, and cognitive dysfunction revealed significant correlation between cortical atrophy and reduction in Extraversion and Conscientiousness. Discrepancies between patient- and informant-reports were found, and overreporting of high Openness and Conscientiousness among patients was associated with lower neocortical volume. A final regression model accounting for depression, cognitive function, and personality accounted for 38% of the variance in neocortical volume. These findings suggest that cortical atrophy in MS is associated with adverse impact on personality, although longitudinal research is needed to test this hypothesis. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved)

Relationships among depressive symptoms, benefit-finding, optimism, and positive affect in multiple sclerosis patients after psychotherapy for depression. Hart, Stacey L.; Vella, Lea; Mohr, David C.; Health Psychology, Vol 27(2), Mar 2008. pp. 230-238. [Journal Article] Abstract: Objective: While many patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience psychological problems, such as depression, benefit-finding is commonly reported. Using the Broaden-and-Build Model of positive emotions (Fredrickson, 2001) and the Expectancy-Value Model of optimism (Carver & Scheier, 1998) as two related, yet, distinct conceptual frameworks, this study examined positive affect and optimism as mediators of the relationship between improved depression and enhanced benefit-finding. Design: MS patients (N = 127), who participated in a larger, randomized clinical trial comparing two types of telephone psychotherapy for depression, were assessed at baseline, midtherapy (8 weeks), end of therapy (16 weeks), and 6- and 12-month posttherapy. Main Outcome Measures: Depression was measured with a telephone administered version of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression; Positive Affect was measured with the Positive Affect Subscale from the Positive and Negative Affect Scale; Optimism was measured with the Life Orientation Test-Revised; Benefit-Finding was measured with the revised version of the Stress-Related Growth Scale. Results: Data were analyzed with multilevel random-effects models, controlling for time since MS diagnosis and type of treatment. Improved depression was associated with increased benefit-finding over time. The relationship between improved depression and benefit-finding was significantly mediated by both increased optimism and increased positive affect. Conclusion: Findings provide support to both theoretical models. Positivity appears to promote benefit-finding in MS. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved)

Making sense of multiple sclerosis Pakenham, Kenneth I.; Rehabilitation Psychology, Vol 52(4), Nov 2007. pp. 380-389. [Journal Article] Abstract: Objective: In this study, the aim was to examine the dimensional structure of a multi-item measure of sense making in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and to investigate relations between sense making and both positive and negative adjustment outcomes. Method: Participants were 408 persons with MS and 232 caregivers. Questionnaires were completed at the initial assessment (Time 1) and 12 months later (Time 2). Results: Factor analysis of the Sense Making Scale (SMS) revealed 6 psychometrically sound factors: Redefined Life Purpose, Acceptance, Spiritual Perspective, Luck, Changed Values and Priorities, and Causal Attribution. Results of regression analyses indicated that the Time 2 SMS factors accounted for significant amounts of variance in each of the Time 2 adjustment outcomes (life satisfaction, positive states of mind, anxiety, depression, caregiver adjustment rating of the care receiver), after controlling for Time 1 adjustment and relevant demographic and illness variables. Conclusions: Findings delineate the dimensional structure of sense making in MS and the differential links between sense making dimensions and adjustment and have implications for the measurement of sense making. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2007 APA, all rights reserved)

Immunopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis: concepts and controversies. By: Holmøy, T.. Acta Neurologica Scandinavica, May2007 Supplement, Vol. 115, p39-45, 7p, 2 diagrams, 1 graph Abstract: Hundred and fifty years after the discovery of multiple sclerosis (MS), neither the etiology nor the mechanism of disease is fully charted, and current treatment has only modest effect. The conceptual understanding of MS rests on the animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Based on 70 years experience with EAE, it is widely believed that MS is an inflammatory attack on myelin and neurons orchestrated by myelin specific T cells. However, evidence supporting a key role for myelin specific T cells in MS is weak, the model fails to explain how immune self-tolerance is broken, and the peculiar B cell response of MS is poorly reflected in EAE. The pathogenesis of MS should therefore be studied in tissue samples and cells from MS patients, as close to the diseased organ as possible. Studies on lymphocytes from CSF of MS patients suggest that viral infections may be involved in T cell activation, and that intrinsic collaboration between T and B cells could sustain the immune response. These observations could explain the perpetuating immune response in MS in the absence of an overt antigen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2007.00845.x (AN 24541816)

Ne ho altri. Se ti interessano te li mando.

Buona vita

[=Morgana=]

Innanzi tutto bellissimo argomento!!anche a me affascina tantissimo l'alessitimia!!!
credo che tu possa provare a cercare qualcosa tra gli studi fatti dal reparto di NEUROLOGIA CLINICA
E COMPORTAMENTALE dell'Università di Roma Tor Vergata – IRCCS S. Lucia!
spero tu possa trovare qualcosa di utile!!

[TheGathering]

Grazie a tutti e due! Gentilissimi!
Willy ho letto questi abstract e se hai altro materiale e hai tempo/voglia di mandarmelo, ti dò la mia mail: anneke984@hotmail.com
Mi sono già stati molto utili..

Morgana, per caso hai avuto esperienza diretta con questo reparto? C'è un sito dove posso trovare queste ricerche? Grazie mille! :*

Oggi vado a parlare col dottorando che mi segue per la tesi...sento che la mia estate sarà tutt'altro che rilassante..

Grazie amici!
Se avete bisogno chiedete pure che cercherò di restituirvi il favore..

[=Morgana=]

Io ho collaborato dalla mia città grazie ad una convenzione con questo reparto ed ora per rimettere insieme il materiale ho cercato su google e mi sono imbattuta in diversi studi sui disturbi del comportamento nella sclerosi multipla( io la faccio sui disturbi del comportamento nella demenza di alzheimer)...piu' di così purtroppo non so dirti...a google mi sono affidata anche io!cmq ci sono molti numeri x parlare con i responsabili,magari dopo che avrai letto qualcosa puoi provare a contattarli!!in bocca al lupo...

[TheGathering]

Grazie! ne terrò conto!
Comunque ci sono sviluppi..sono stata a ricevimento dal dottorando che mi segue... Lui mi ha proposto di valutare i pazienti con la Swap-200 (che valuta i disturbi di personalità) o Adult Attachment Interview... Entrambe le cose mi sembravano un tantino non fattibili.... Il primo perchè è uno strumento di solito applicato dal terapeuta e richiede cmq almeno 3 colloqui (e voglio vedere quanti pazienti trovo disposti a farsi tutto sto sbattimento per me..), il secondo perchè credo ci voglia un patentino e comunque stesso motivo...

Che voi sappiate esiste un questionario che valuta l'attaccamento?

In alternativa forse farò il questionario di copione, uno strumento dell'analisi transazionale (il mio relatore è Sambin che si occupa di questo tra le altre cose..)... forse è la cosa più fattibile..

Grazie cari!!

[stillalive]

Grazie! ne terrò conto!
Comunque ci sono sviluppi..sono stata a ricevimento dal dottorando che mi segue... Lui mi ha proposto di valutare i pazienti con la Swap-200 (che valuta i disturbi di personalità) o Adult Attachment Interview... Entrambe le cose mi sembravano un tantino non fattibili.... Il primo perchè è uno strumento di solito applicato dal terapeuta e richiede cmq almeno 3 colloqui (e voglio vedere quanti pazienti trovo disposti a farsi tutto sto sbattimento per me..), il secondo perchè credo ci voglia un patentino e comunque stesso motivo...

Che voi sappiate esiste un questionario che valuta l'attaccamento?

In alternativa forse farò il questionario di copione, uno strumento dell'analisi transazionale (il mio relatore è Sambin che si occupa di questo tra le altre cose..)... forse è la cosa più fattibile..

Grazie cari!!

Ciao, posso consigliarti il test SAR (scala alessitimica romana) o la TAS-20 per l'alessitimia, mentre (poi dipende dal campione se adulti o ragazzi ecc) l' IPPA (inventory of parent and peer attachment) che valuta l'attaccamento ai genitori e al gruppo dei pari. Ti consiglio inoltre di consultare un testo recentissimo dal titolo "la valutazione dell'attaccamento nell'adulto" (cortina editore) che contiene una intera rassegna sugli strumenti di valutazione dell'attaccamento. Buon lavoro!

[TheGathering]

Grazie mille!

Itest sull'alessitimia li conoscevo gi, sono stati usati per la costruzione del questionario sperimentale, e sono emerse cose significative sulla loro non attendibilità per alcune sottoscale nella nostra ricerca..

Ti ringrazio moltissimo per le indicazioni sull'inventario per l'attaccamento!! Mi procurerò certamente il libro!!
grazie!!!!

[TheGathering]

Ciao! Di nuovo in paranoia...Cosa ne pensate della dieta Kousmine e del fatto che alcuni medici curano la sclerosi multipla con farmaci omeopatici e disintossicando le persone affette dal mercurio e queste guariscono? Io non ne sapevo niente (sono ignorante in materia) e la cosa mi ha lasciata di stucco..
Di sclerosi multipla si può guarire?

Il Metodo Kousmine


Ciao soci!! smack

[willy61]

Ciao! Di nuovo in paranoia...Cosa ne pensate della dieta Kousmine e del fatto che alcuni medici curano la sclerosi multipla con farmaci omeopatici e disintossicando le persone affette dal mercurio e queste guariscono? Io non ne sapevo niente (sono ignorante in materia) e la cosa mi ha lasciata di stucco..
Di sclerosi multipla si può guarire?

Il Metodo Kousmine


Ciao soci!! smack

Io penso che non esistono studi controllati sulla dieta Kousmine (nessun risultato né su Ebscohost, né su Medline).
Sul ruolo del mercurio e dei metalli pesanti nello sviluppo di patologie autoimmuni esistono alcuni studi, ma con risultati non conclusivi. Più chiara è l'influenza di elevate concentrazioni di mercurio sulla genesi di disturbi neurologici (in effetti, l'intossicazione cronica da mercurio è stata una delle prime malattie professionali studiate, dato che il mercurio veniva utilizzato nell'industria della produzione di cappelli di feltro, ampiamente utilizzati fino al 1960). Anche i danni genetici da metilmercurio sono ben noti (malattia di Minamata), così come i danni alla salute riproduttiva (garimpeiros del Brasile). Grosse polemiche sono state sollevate anche a proposito della presenza di sali di mercurio nei vaccini, ma non sembrano esistere studi affidabili che ne confermino la nocività.

Ti posto i pochi articoli che ho trovato in merito:

Neurobehavioral Effects of Acute Exposure to Inorganic Mercury Vapor. By: Haut, Marc W.; Morrow, Lisa A.; Pool, David; Callahan, Ty S.; Haut, Jennifer S.; Franzen, Michael D.. Applied Neuropsychology, 1999, Vol. 6 Issue 4, p193, 8p, 1 chart, 1 graph; Abstract: Describes neuropsychological and emotional functioning of workers exposed to inorganic mercury vapor compared to a normal control group. Reduction of neurobehavioral functioning with acute exposure to inorganic mercury; Domains affected with mercury exposure; Association of mercury exposure with frontal lobe functioning deficiency; Psychological symptoms of mercury exposure. (AN 3187329)

Technical Report: Mercury in the Environment: Implications for Pediatricians. By: Goldman, Lynn R.; Shannon, Michael W.. Pediatrics, Jul2001, Vol. 108 Issue 1, p197, 9p, 1 diagram Abstract: ABSTRACT. Mercury is a ubiquitous environmental toxin that causes a wide range of adverse health effects in humans. Three forms of mercury (elemental, inorganic, and organic) exist, and each has its own profile of toxicity. Exposure to mercury typically occurs by inhalation or ingestion. Readily absorbed after its inhalation, mercury can be an indoor air pollutant, for example, after spills of elemental mercury in the home; however, industry emissions with resulting ambient air pollution remain the most important source of inhaled mercury. Because fresh-water and ocean fish may contain large amounts of mercury, children and pregnant women can have significant exposure if they consume excessive amounts of fish. The developing fetus and young children are thought to be disproportionately affected by mercury exposure, because many aspects of development, particularly brain maturation, can be disturbed by the presence of mercury. Minimizing mercury exposure is, therefore, essential to optimal child health. This review provides pediatricians with current information on mercury, including environmental sources, toxicity, and treatment and prevention of mercury exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] (AN 4767624)

Don't remove amalgam fillings, urges American Dental Association. By: Larkin, Marilynn. Lancet, 8/3/2002, Vol. 360 Issue 9330, p393, 0p, 1 color; Abstract: Reports that the American Dental Association is urging patients to not have amalgam fillings removed. Concerns that amalgam material may cause multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and autism; Mercury which is contained in the material; Lack of evidence that removing fillings may help cure diseases. (AN 7079437)

VISUALIZING NEURONAL STRUCTURES IN THE HUMAN BRAIN VIA DIFFUSION TENSOR MRI. By: BENGER, WERNER; BARTSCH, HAUKE; HEGE, HANS-CHRISTIAN; KITZLER, HAGEN; SHUMILINA, ANNA; WERNER, ANNETT. International Journal of Neuroscience, Apr2006, Vol. 116 Issue 4, p461-514, 54p, 2 charts, 22 color Abstract: Acquisition, analysis, and visualization of diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DT-MRI) is still an evolving technology. This article reviews the fundamentals of the data acquisition process and the pipeline leading to visual results that are interpretable by physicians in their clinical practice. The limitations of common approaches for visualizing the retrieved data are discussed and a new statistical method is presented to assess the reliability of the acquired tensor field. A novel visualization method is proposed which is discussed in light of neurophysiological considerations of the perception of colored patterns. It is argued that this method is more accurate for medical data while providing a nearly optimal visual stimulus. The method is evaluated on a patient study with a brain tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1080/00207450500505977 (AN 20338930)

Vaccines and the changing epidemiology of autism. By: Taylor, B.. Child: Care, Health & Development, Sep2006, Vol. 32 Issue 5, p511-519, 9p Abstract: Background The epidemiology of autism has been rather confusing, with very variable published prevalence figures and no clear incidence data. The cause of autism is unclear; vaccines have been incriminated. Methods Literature review and interpretation. Results The recorded prevalence of autism has increased considerably in recent years. This reflects greater recognition, with changes in diagnostic practice associated with more trained diagnosticians; broadening of diagnostic criteria to include a spectrum of disorder; a greater willingness by parents and educationalists to accept the label (in part because of entitlement to services); and better recording systems, among other factors. The cause(s) of autism remains unclear. There is a strong genetic component which, along with prenatally determined neuro-anatomical/biochemical changes, makes any post-natal ‘cause’ unlikely. Conclusions There has (probably) been no real increase in the incidence of autism. There is no scientific evidence that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine or the mercury preservative used in some vaccines plays any part in the aetiology or triggering of autism, even in a subgroup of children with the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2006.00655.x (AN 21870156)


Mercury, Vaccines, and Autism One Controversy, Three Histories. By: Baker, Jeffrey P.. American Journal of Public Health, Feb2008, Vol. 98 Issue 2, p244-253, 10p Abstract: The controversy regarding the once widely used mercury-containing preservative thimerosal in childhood vaccines has raised many historical questions that have not been adequately explored. Why was this preservative incorporated in the first place? Was there any real evidence that H caused harm? And how did thimerosal become linked in the public mind to the "autism epidemic"? I examine the origins of the thimerosal controversy and their legacy for the debate that has followed. More specifically, I explore the parallel histories of three factors that converged to create the crisis: vaccine preservatives, mercury poisoning, and autism. An understanding of this history provides important lessons for physicians and policymakers seeking to preserve the public's trust in the nation's vaccine system. (Am J Public Health. 2008;98:244-253. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2007.113159) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] (AN 30103018)

Seafood and brain development. Harvard Mental Health Letter, Jan2008, Vol. 24 Issue 7, p6-6, 1p; Abstract: The article emphasizes the importance of balancing mercury exposure against the nutritional benefits of fish to protect fetal development or brain development of children of pregnant or nursing women. Several advice are offered to pregnant or nursing women to balance the benefits of docosahexaenoic acid against the risk of methylmercury and to protect fetal development or nursing children. (AN 28097921)

Consequences of prenatal toxin exposure for mental health in children and adolescents. By: Williams, Justin H. G.; Ross, Louise. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Jun2007, Vol. 16 Issue 4, p243-253, 11p, 1 chart, 1 diagram Abstract: Drug use during pregnancy is common and the developing foetus may be exposed to a range of environmental toxins that have long-term consequences for neurodevelopment. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to explore the results of longitudinal cohort studies that have examined this question. Out of 2,977 abstracts identified, 7 previous systematic reviews and 95 original articles met further selection criteria. These mostly addressed the neurodevelopmental effects of exposure to lead, polychlorinated biphenyls, mercury, cocaine, alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes and antidepressants. Radiation, opiates, steroids, amphetamines and caffeine have received much less attention. Findings are difficult to interpret because risk factors tend to cluster together and interact. However, some findings are consistent. Lead and PCB’s have a general effect on brain development, whilst marijuana and alcohol appear to have long-term effects specifically on attentional skills. The effects of alcohol increase with maternal age and binge drinking is more important than average intake. The effects of cocaine diminish with age and are largely mediated through psychosocial factors, whilst the relation between smoking and later delinquency is largely mediated by genetically inherited factors. Exposure to toxins during pregnancy may constitute an important but relatively unacknowledged cause of child psychiatric morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1007/s00787-006-0596-6 (AN 25369553)

College Women's Reported Behaviors and Beliefs Regarding Fish and Folic Acid and Their Roles in Birth Defects. By: Burak, Lydia J.; Costello, Pamela. Health Care for Women International, Oct2006, Vol. 27 Issue 9, p793-806, 14p, 2 charts Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to examine college women's beliefs and behaviors regarding birth defect prevention via folic acid intake and avoidance of fish with high mercury levels. We surveyed 313 college women and found that the majority of them reported eating fish despite their awareness that certain types of fish contained levels of mercury that are dangerous for women of childbearing age. We also found that the majority of the women did not comply with dietary guidelines for vegetable and legume consumption, and more than half of them did not take vitamin supplements that provide folic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1080/07399330600880343 (AN 22897311)

“The Mercury's Rising!”, Can National Health Group Intervention Protect the Public Health from EPA'S Clean Air Mercury Rule? By: Stivers, James D.. Journal of Legal Medicine, Sep2006, Vol. 27 Issue 3, p323-340, 18p; Abstract: The author cautions against the threat to human life from the mercury wastes. The author cites examples from Iraq and the marine life conditions in the Amazon River Basin, which are drastically affected due to mercury contamination. The United States has curbed the use of mercury as a preventative regulatory action. The Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR) ratified by the US is becoming a better rule by the aid of public health groups. The atmospheric mercury pollution is dealt in detail. DOI: 10.1080/01947640600870916 (AN 22254983)

Dental restoration with amalgam (mercury) safe for children. Journal of Family Practice, Jul2006, Vol. 55 Issue 7, p573-573, 1p; Abstract: The article cites a study on the effects of dental restoration with amalgam on children. Subjects were 534 children aged 6 to 10 years with no history of amalgam restorations and with two dental-caried posterior teeth for restoration. The children underwent restoration with standard amalgam which contains 50 percent mercury or with a resin composite material free mercury. The children were also examined of intelligence, auditory memory, and visual integration using scoring tools before restoration in 3 and 5-year-olds. Through intention-to-treat analysis, there were no significant differences found between amalgam and composite group. There was also no insignificant increase in intelligence quotient in the amalgam group. (AN 21516162)

A Meta-Analysis of the Neuropsychological Effects of Occupational Exposure to Mercury. By: Rohling, Martin; Demakis, George. Clinical Neuropsychologist, Feb2006, Vol. 20 Issue 1, p108-132, 25p, 3 charts, 3 graphs Abstract: This paper reports a meta-analysis of 36 peer-reviewed published studies of the neuropsychological effects of occupational exposure to mercury, which yielded 43 independent samples. These studies included 2,512 exposed participants and 1,846 controls, for a total sample size of 4,358. Because the independent variables defining mercury exposure varied across studies, effect sizes were calculated for exposed versus non-exposed workers. Dose–response relations were considered for measures of mercury levels in urine (81% of studies reported), blood (42% of studies reported), and air samples (33% of studies reported). Level of exposure was also estimated by reported years of exposure ( M = 11.3, SD = 5.6). Cohen's d statistic yielded a statistically significant weighted study-mean effect size of -.23, p [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1080/13854040500203324 (AN 19328638)

Japan remembers Minamata. By: McCurry, Justin. Lancet, 1/14/2006, Vol. 367 Issue 9505, p99-100, 2p, 1 color; Abstract: This article reports on the 50 year anniversary of the first patient being diagnosed in Japan's worst case of industrial pollution. Over 900 people died and thousands of others were left permanently disabled as the disease attacked their nervous system, causing blindness, seizures, and a variety of sensory disorders. In total, about two million suffered health problems from eating fish that contaminated with mercury. The tragedy that struck the seaside town of Minamata was entirely manmade. From 1932 to 1968, Chisso Corporation, a local petrochemical and plastics maker, dumped an estimated 27 tons of mercury into Minamata bay, poisoning fish and eventually, the people who ate them. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(06)67944-0 (AN 19397624)

An Unhealthy Start in Life—What Matters Most? By: Moore, Colleen F.. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, Dec2005, Vol. 6 Issue 3, pi-ii, 2p; Abstract: The article discusses how neurotoxic metals, micronutrient deficiencies, and social environments can combine to give a child an unhealthy start in life. Epidemiological studies have suggested that neurotoxicants such as lead and mercury have tremendous effect on the health of a child. Manganese as a micronutrient affects glutamate uptake in certain areas of the brain and dopaminergic systems of the child. Social variables such as income, social quality of the home, parental education, and racial or ethnic identity of the parents or child also have a huge impact on the child's health. DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-1006.2005.00023.x (AN 19398292)

Neurotoxicants, Micronutrients, and Social Environments. By: Hubbs-Tait, Laura; Nation, Jack R.; Krebs, Nancy F.; Bellinger, David C.. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, Dec2005, Vol. 6 Issue 3, p57-121, 65p, 6 graphs Abstract: Systematic research evaluating the separate and interacting impacts of neurotoxicants, micronutrients, and social environments on children's cognition and behavior has only recently been initiated. Years of extensive human epidemiologic and animal experimental research document the deleterious impact of lead and other metals on the nervous system. However, discrepancies among human studies and between animal and human studies underscore the importance of variations in child nutrition as well as social and behavioral aspects of children's environments that mitigate or exacerbate the effects of neurotoxicants. In this monograph, we review existing research on the impact of neurotoxic metals, nutrients, and social environments and interactions across the three domains. We examine the literature on lead, mercury, manganese, and cadmium in terms of dispersal, epidemiology, experimental animal studies, effects of social environments, and effects of nutrition. Research documenting the negative impact of lead on cognition and behavior influenced reductions by the Center for Disease Control in child lead-screening guidelines from 30 micrograms per deciliter ( μg/dL) in 1975 to 25 μg/dL in 1985 and to 10 μg/dL in 1991. A further reduction is currently being considered. Experimental animal research documents lead's alteration of glutamate-neurotransmitter (particularly N-methyl-D-aspartate) activity vital to learning and memory. In addition, lead induces changes in cholinergic and dopaminergic activity. Elevated lead concentrations in the blood are more common among children living in poverty and there is some evidence that socioeconomic status influences associations between lead and child outcomes. Micronutrients that influence the effects of lead include iron and zinc. Research documenting the negative impact of mercury on children (as well as adults) has resulted in a reference dose (RfD) of 0.1 microgram per kilogram of body weight per day ( &#x3BC... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-1006.2005.00024.x (AN 19398291)

Vaccine battles in the USA. By: Raizman, Noah. Lancet, 5/7/2005, Vol. 365 Issue 9471, p1613-1614, 2p, 1 color; Abstract: Reviews the book "Evidence of Harm Mercury in Vaccines and the Autism Epidemic: A Medical Controversy," by David Kirby. (AN 16972196)

Relationship of Lead, Mercury, Mirex, Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, Hexachlorobenzene, and Polychlorinated Biphenyls to Timing of Menarche Among Akwesasne Mohawk Girls. By: Denham, Melinda; Schell, Lawrence M.; Deane, Glenn; Gallo, Mia V.; Ravenscroft, Julia; DeCaprio, Anthony P.. Pediatrics, Feb2005, Vol. 115 Issue 2, pe127-e134, 8p, 4 charts, 2 graphs Abstract: Background. Children are commonly exposed at background levels to several ubiquitous environmental pollutants, such as lead and persistent organic pollutants, that have been linked to neurologic and endocrine effects. These effects have prompted concern about alterations in human reproductive development. Few studies have examined the effects of these toxicants on human sexual maturation at levels commonly found in the general population, and none has been able to examine multiple toxicant exposures. The aim of the current investigation was to examine the relationship between attainment of menarche and levels of 6 environmental pollutants to which children are commonly exposed at low levels, ie, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p′-DDE), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), mirex, lead, and mercury. Methods. This study was conducted with residents of the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, a sovereign territory that spans the St Lawrence River and the boundaries of New York State and Ontario and Quebec, Canada. Since the 1950s, the St Lawrence River has been a site of substantial industrial development, and the Nation is currently adjacent to a US National Priority Superfund site. PCB, p,p′-DDE, HCB, and mirex levels exceeding the US Food and Drug Administration recommended tolerance limits for human consumption have been found in local animal species. The present analysis included 138 Akwesasne Mohawk Nation girls 10 to 16.9 years of age. Blood samples and sociodemographic data were collected by Akwesasne community members, without prior knowledge of participants' exposure status. Attainment of menses (menarche) was assessed as present or absent at the time of the interview. Congener-specific PCB analysis was available, and all 16 PCB congeners detected in >50% of the sample were included in analyses (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry numbers 52, 70, 74, 84, 87, 95, 99, 101 [+90], 105, 110, 118, 138 [+163 and 164]... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1542/peds.2004-1161 (AN 15693036)

Mercury in vaccines and potential conflicts of interest. By: Geier, Mark R.; Geier, David A.. Lancet, 10/2/2004, Vol. 364 Issue 9441, p1217-1217, 1p; Abstract: Presents a letter to the editor in response to the article "Mercury concentrations and metabolism in infants receiving vaccines containing thiomersal: a descriptive study," by Michael Pichichero and colleagues in a 2002 issue. (AN 14616891)

Mercury in vaccines and potential conflicts of interest. By: Pichichero, Michael E.; Treanor, John. Lancet, 10/2/2004, Vol. 364 Issue 9441, p1217-1218, 2p; Abstract: Presents a reply by Michael Pichichero and John Treanor to a letter to the editor about their article "Mercury concentrations and metabolism in infants receiving vaccines containing thiomersal: a descriptive study," in a 2002 issue. (AN 14616910)

Thimerosal Exposure in Infants and Developmental Disorders: A Prospective Cohort Study in the United Kingdom Does Not Support a Causal Association. By: Heron, Jon; Golding, Jean. Pediatrics, Sep2004, Vol. 114 Issue 3, p577-583, 7p, 3 charts, 1 diagram Abstract: Objective. There is an established link between exposure to mercury and impaired childhood cognitive development and early motor skills. Thimerosal (also known as thiomersal), a preservative used in a number of children's vaccines, contains ethylmercury (an organic compound of mercury), and there has been concern that this exposure to mercury may be of some detriment to young children. The aim of this research was to test in a large United Kingdom population--based cohort whether there is any evidence to justify such concerns. Methods. We used population data from a longitudinal study on childhood health and development. The study has been monitoring >14 000 children who are from the geographic area formerly known as Avon, United Kingdom, and were delivered in 1991--1992. The age at which doses of thimerosal-containing vaccines were administered was recorded, and measures of mercury exposure by 3, 4, and 6 months of age were calcu-lated and compared with a number of measures of childhood cognitive and behavioral development covering the period from 6 to 91 months of age. Results. Contrary to expectation, it was common for the unadjusted results to suggest a beneficial effect of thimerosal exposure. For example, exposure at 3 months was inversely associated with hyperactivity and conduct problems at 47 months; motor development at 6 months and at 30 months; difficulties with sounds at 81 months; and speech therapy, special needs, and "statementing" at 91 months. After adjustment for birth weight, gestation, gender, maternal education, parity, housing tenure, maternal smoking, breastfeeding, and ethnic origins, we found 1 result of 69 to be in the direction hypothesized--poor prosocial behavior at 47 months was associated with exposure by 3 months of age (odds ratio: 1.12; 95% confidence interval: 1.01-1.23) compared with 8 results that still supported a beneficial effect. Conclusions. We could find no convincing evidence that early exposure to thimerosal had... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1542/peds.2003-1176-L (AN 14178383)

Thimerosal Exposure in Infants and Developmental Disorders: A Retrospective Cohort Study in the United Kingdom Does Not Support a Causal Association. By: Andrews, Nick; Miller, Elizabeth; Grant, Andrew; Stowe, Julia; Osborne, Velda; Taylor, Brent. Pediatrics, Sep2004, Vol. 114 Issue 3, p584-591, 8p, 4 charts, 1 diagram, 3 graphs Abstract: Objective. After concerns about the possible toxicity of thimerosal-containing vaccines in the United States, this study was designed to investigate whether there is a relationship between the amount of thimerosal that an infant receives via diphtheriatetanus-whole- cell pertussis (DTP) or diphtheria-tetanus (DT) vaccination at a young age and subsequent neurodevel-opmental disorders. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was performed using 109 863 children who were born from 1988 to 1997 and were registered in general practices in the United Kingdom that contributed to a research database. The disorders investigated were general developmental disorders, language or speech delay, tics, attention-deficit disorder, autism, unspecified developmental delays, behavior problems, encopresis, and enuresis. Exposure was defined according to the number of DTP/DT doses received by 3 and 4 months of age and also the cumulative age-specific DTP/DT exposure by 6 months. Each DTP/DT dose of vaccine contains 50 σg of thimerosal (25 σg of ethyl mercury). Hazard ratios (HRs) for the disorders were calculated per dose of DTP/DT vaccine or per unit of cumulative DTP/DT exposure. Results. Only in 1 analysis for tics was there some evidence of a higher risk with increasing doses (Cox's HR: 1.50 per dose at 4 months; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02--2.20). Statistically significant negative associations with increasing doses at 4 months were found for general developmental disorders (HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.81--0.93), unspecified developmental delay (HR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.69--0.92), and attention-deficit disorder (HR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.64--0.98). For the other disorders, there was no evidence of an association with thimerosal exposure. Conclusions. With the possible exception of tics, there was no evidence that thimerosal exposure via DTP/DT vaccines causes neurodevelopmental disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1542/peds.2003-1177-L (AN 14178392)

Thimerosal-Containing Vaccines and Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Critical Review of Published Original Data. By: Parker, Sarah K.; Schwartz, Benjamin; Todd, James; Pickering, Larry K.. Pediatrics, Sep2004, Vol. 114 Issue 3, p793-804, 12p, 2 charts Abstract: Objective. The issue of thimerosal-containing vaccines as a possible cause of autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) has been a controversial topic since 1999. Although most practitioners are familiar with the contro-versy, many are not familiar with the type or quality of evidence in published articles that have addressed this issue. To assess the quality of evidence assessing a po-tential association between thimerosal-containing vac-cines and autism and evaluate whether that evidence suggests accepting or rejecting the hypothesis, we systematically reviewed published articles that report original data pertinent to the potential association between thimerosal-containing vaccines and ASD/NDDs. Methods. Articles for analysis were identified in the National Library of Medicine's Medline database using a PubMed search of the English-language literature for articles published between 1966 and 2004, using keywords thimerosal, thiomersal, mercury, methylmercury, or ethylmercury alone and combined with keywords autistic disorder, autistic spectrum disorder, and neurodevelopment. In addition, we used the "related links" option in PubMed and reviewed the reference sections in the identified articles. All original articles that evaluated an association between thimerosal-containing vaccines and ASD/NDDs or pharmacokinetics of ethylmercury in vaccines were included. Results. Twelve publications that met the selection criteria were identified by the literature search: 10 epidemiologic studies and 2 pharmacokinetic studies of ethyl-mercury. The design and quality of the studies showed significant variation. The preponderance of epidemiologic evidence does not support an association between thimerosal-containing vaccines and ASD. Epidemiologic studies that support an association are of poor quality and cannot be interpreted. Pharmacokinetic studies suggest that the half-life... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1542/peds.2004-0434 (AN 14178847)

How Environmental Hazards in Childhood Have Been Discovered: Carcinogens, Teratogens, Neurotoxicants, and Others. By: Miller, Robert W.. Pediatrics, Apr2004 Supplement, Vol. 113, p945-951, 7p, 2 charts Abstract: Review of the literature reveals that environmental hazards cause adverse health effects that include sterility, infertility, embryotoxicity, low birth weight, skin lesions, neurodevelopmental defects, immunologic disorders, cancer, and fear of late effects. They have been identified mostly by astute practitioners but also by a bacteriologist, an animal experimentalist, factory workers in childless marriages, and a tipsy by-stander in an economically impoverished area of Baltimore. Dust on a parent's work clothes has transported hazard at work to a hazard at home (lead, asbestos, and chlordecone). Causality is established by showing dose-response effect and reproducing the effect in studies of other exposed groups or by using another epidemiologic method, eg, prospective instead of retrospective study. Also, the findings should be biologically plausible and not attributable to a concomitant variable such as cigarette smoking. Contrary to front-page newspaper headlines, incidence rates for childhood leukemia are not rising. Preserving specimens for future studies has been valuable: blood from people who were exposed to dioxin in Seveso, Italy; mummified umbilical cords containing methyl mercury at Minamata Bay, Japan; and Guthrie dried blood spots to screen retrospectively for 43 genetic disorders and a specific prenatal cytogenetic abnormality in some children with 1 form of leukemia. Recommendations are given for enhancing interest in environmental hazards and their discovery by clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] (AN 12517662)

Mercury Exposure and Child Development Outcomes. By: Davidson, Philip W.; Myers, Gary J.; Weiss, Bernard. Pediatrics, Apr2004 Supplement, Vol. 113, p1023-1029, 7p Abstract: Mercury is ubiquitous in the global environment, ensuring universal exposure. Some forms of mercury are especially neurotoxic, including clinical signs at high doses. However, typical human exposures occur at low to moderate doses. Only limited data about neurotoxicity at low doses are available, and scientists differ in their interpretation. Dose-response data on neurodevelopment are particularly limited. Despite or perhaps because of the lack of sufficient or consistent scientific data, public concern about a link between mercury exposure and developmental disabilities has been rising. After reviewing the data, the US Environmental Protection Agency proposed a reference dose (an estimate of a daily dose that is likely to be without a risk of adverse effects over a lifetime) for methyl mercury that is substantially lower than previous guidelines from the World Health Organization, the US Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the US Food and Drug Administration. Some questions have been raised about the Environmental Protection Agency's guidelines, but the issue remains unresolved. Meanwhile, consumer groups have raised questions about the potential link between mercury exposure and autism spectrum disorders as well as other adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. This hypothesis has prompted some parents to seek regulatory, legal, or medical remedies in the absence of firm evidence. This article reviews what is known about mercury neurotoxicity and neurodevelopmental risk. Our intent is to focus the debate about mercury on 1) additional research that should be sought and 2) defining the principal issues that public policy makers face. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] (AN 12518222)

Activation of methionine synthase by insulin-like growth factor-1 and dopamine: a target for neurodevelopmental toxins and thimerosal. By: Waly, M.; Olteanu, H.; Banerjee, R.; Choi, S.-W.; Mason, J. B.; Parker, B. S.; Sukumar, S.; Shim, S.; Sharma, A.; Benzecry, J. M.; Power-Charnitsky, V.-A.; Deth, R. C.. Molecular Psychiatry, Apr2004, Vol. 9 Issue 4, p358-370, 13p Abstract: Methylation events play a critical role in the ability of growth factors to promote normal development. Neurodevelopmental toxins, such as ethanol and heavy metals, interrupt growth factor signaling, raising the possibility that they might exert adverse effects on methylation. We found that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)- and dopamine-stimulated methionine synthase (MS) activity and folate-dependent methylation of phospholipids in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells, via a PI3-kinase- and MAP-kinase-dependent mechanism. The stimulation of this pathway increased DNA methylation, while its inhibition increased methylation-sensitive gene expression. Ethanol potently interfered with IGF-1 activation of MS and blocked its effect on DNA methylation, whereas it did not inhibit the effects of dopamine. Metal ions potently affected IGF-1 and dopamine-stimulated MS activity, as well as folate-dependent phospholipid methylation: Cu²⁺ promoted enzyme activity and methylation, while Cu⁺, Pb²⁺, Hg²⁺ and Al³⁺ were inhibitory. The ethylmercury-containing preservative thimerosal inhibited both IGF-1- and dopamine-stimulated methylation with an IC₅₀ of 1?nM and eliminated MS activity. Our findings outline a novel growth factor signaling pathway that regulates MS activity and thereby modulates methylation reactions, including DNA methylation. The potent inhibition of this pathway by ethanol, lead, mercury, aluminum and thimerosal suggests that it may be an important target of neurodevelopmental toxins.Molecular Psychiatry (2004) 9, 358-370. doi:10.1038/sj.mp.4001476 Published online 27 January 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4001476 (AN 12643649)

Buona vita

Guglielmo

[TheGathering]

:O Grazie willy! Ti devo almeno una decina di caffè credo!
Al momento sono ferma.....scartato il progetto di somministraare questionari complicati...ci limiteremo a usare la TAS-20 e la scala dell'Istituto di psicosomatica integrata...
120-150 soggetti con SM cercasi!
Giovedì vado in vacanzae da settembre si comincia...
Vi terrò aggiornati cari amici!!
Buone vacanze per chi le farà!! Bacioni

[TheGathering]

Eccomi qui di nuovo! Qualcuno ha mai usato o conosce l'Attachment style questionnaire?
Willy hai del materiale per caso? Hai il questionario stesso?
E la Trauma symptom checklist?

Ciao amicici dell'anno duemila!!!

[TheGathering]

Ciaooo! Eccomi di nuovo tra voi! Ormai mi mancano due esami e poi posso iniziare con la tesi. Mi hanno dato l'autorizzazione per fare i miei questionari in un ospedale di Milano e appena possibile inizierò!
In questi giorni devo però fare una ricerchina preliminare sul costrutto di intelligenza, intelligenza emotiva, intelligenza somatica (se esiste qualcosa..), intelligenza musicale, ecc, per capire se quella che noi riteniamo intelligenza somatica come una delle sottoscale del test, può essere appresa e come varia in base alla malattia.. E' un po' lunga da spiegare, comunque per ora mi serve materiale che settimana prossima devo portare qualcosa al gruppo di ricerca.
Grazie grazie!

ps: scusate se chiedo aiuto ma sono tornata oggi da Padova e sono distrutta e ho pochissimo tempo per fare sta cosa, maledetti impegni extra universitari...

[millelune]

Guarda al sito http://www.somatologia.it/ricerca/ri...ica_poster.pdf

[TheGathering]

Guarda al sito http://www.somatologia.it/ricerca/ri...ica_poster.pdf

hem, grazie...ma...quello è il poster del nostro gruppo di ricerca!! Siamo noi!
Purtroppo mi sa che siamo gli unici a fare questo tipo di lavoro...