Chimeric honeybees (Apis mellifera) produced by transplantation of embryonic cells into pre-gastrula stage embryos and detection of chimerism by use of microsatellite markers.

The production of chimeras, by use of cell transplantation, has proved to be highly valuable in studies of development by providing insights into cell fate, differentiation, and developmental potential. So far, chimeric honeybees have been created by nuclear transfer technologies. We have developed protocols to produce chimeric honeybees by use of cell transplantation. Embryonic cells were transplanted between pre-gastrula stage embryos (32-34 hr after oviposition) and hatched larvae were reared in vitro for 4 days. Chimeric individuals were detected by use of microsatellite analysis and a conservative estimation approach. 4.8% of embryos, posteriorly injected with embryonic cells, developed into chimeric honeybee larvae. By injection of cells pre-stained with fluorescent cell tracer dye, we studied the integration of transplanted cells in the developing embryos. Number of injected cells varied from 0 to 50 and cells remained and multiplied mainly in the area of injection.

Predictive value of the four good prognostic features in DSM-III-R schizophreniform disorder.

DSM-III-R divides schizophreniform disorder into 2 subtypes with and without good prognostic features. The 4 prognostic features have been selected based on the literature, and the presence of at least 2 should indicate a good prognosis. The predictive value of the good prognostic features was tested in a sample of 16 untreated patients with DSM-III-R schizophreniform disorder with known long-term outcome based on personal follow-up examination. No correlation between the presence of 2 or more features and favorable outcome was observed. Confusion, disorientation or perplexity at the height of the psychotic episode was the only feature consistently associated with a favorable outcome in this sample. The introduction of good prognostic features of schizophreniform disorder by DSM-III-R has been done without due consideration of the methodological problems of prediction research.

[Exposure therapy of phobic and compulsive disorders]. / Behandling av fobi og tvangslidelse med eksponeringsterapi.

Several methods have been used to treat anxiety disorder. In phobic conditions and in obsessive compulsive disorders, exposure therapy is most effective. In exposure therapy, the relevant evoking stimuli are presented repeatedly to the patient. This method does not suit all patients, however. For favourable results, certain exclusion criteria must be observed. In addition, the treatment procedure must be followed systematically.