Describes the method, present status, and application of positron emission tomography (PET), an analytical imaging technique for "in vivo" measurements of the anatomical distribution and rates of specific biochemical reactions. Measurements and image dynamic biochemistry link basic and clinical neurosciences with clinical findings…

This is a review of the pharmacological treatment of mental illnesses. Included topics are: schizophrenia, depression, mania, antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, lithium, and ethics. (BB)

Presents several research studies which investigate how emotional and psychological factors relate to the risk of getting cancer. The need for bringing psychologists, psychotherapists, biochemists and other specialists in team efforts to investigate psychosomatic aspects of cancer is recommended. (HM)

Trace elements and some drugs can be identified in hair and it seems likely that other organic chemicals will be identifiable in the future. Since hair is so easily collected, stored, and analyzed it promises to be an ideal complement to serum and urine analysis as a diagnostic tool. (BB)

This is a review of the relationship of neurochemistry to behavior. Most of the common neurotransmitters and neuromodulators are introduced. Special emphasis is given to the involvement of neurochemistry in mental disorders. (BB)

In eighteen chronic schizophrenics, subcutaneous doses of the dopamine reception agonist, apomorphine, improved psychotic symptoms. The results are interpreted as a consequence of presynaptic dopamine receptor activationby apomorphine with a subsequent decrease in dopamine-mediated neural transmission. (Author/BB)

Describes research which indicates that a number of peptide hormones act directly on the brain to affect learning and behavior. Investigations are currently being conducted to determine if these substances can be used to treat learning disorders or to improve the memories of normal people. (MLH)

Reviews three years of research on the effects of marihuana in man. Previously known clinical mental and physical effects have been confirmed. Causes and mechanisms of these effects generally remain undetermined in man and animals. Social implications and long term effects require additional study, although usage appears detrimental. (JM)