Increased uric acid levels in drug-naïve subjects with bipolar disorder during a first manic episode.

Recent evidence suggests that purinergic system dysfunction may play a role in the pathophysiology and therapeutics of bipolar disorder (BPD). Uric acid is a key nitrogenous end product of purine metabolism. In addition to being a potential marker of treatment response, high levels of uric acid may represent a state marker during mania.

Quality of life in a Brazilian sample of patients with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers.

Objective: Parkinson's disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor disabilities and increasing dependence on others for daily life activities with consequent impact on patients' and caregivers' quality of life.

Method: A cross-sectional study was performed in which quality of life was assessed by the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire in 21 patients with Parkinson's disease and their respective caregivers.

Results: Significant differences between patients and caregivers were found in physical (p < 0.

Changes in S100B cerebrospinal fluid levels of rats subjected to predator stress.

Predator stress is a type of psychogenic stress induced by an innate recognition of threat. S100B, a calcium-binding protein secreted by astrocytes, has been associated with neurotrophic or neurotoxic action in several neuropsychiatric disorders. It has been recently demonstrated that serum S100B levels in rats are increased after stress by immobilization [S.