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Science News for May 7, 2000


Cigarette smoking: Neuroticism and genes

Research reveals a strong interaction between neuroticism and the serotonin transporter gene in influencing cigarette smoking behavior. Individuals with poorly expressed serotonin transporter genotypes and high levels of neuroticism face significant challenges in quitting smoking. This study suggests personalized approaches to smoking ...

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 7, 2000

Jews are the genetic brothers of Palestinians, Syrians, and Lebanese

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that Jewish men share a common set of genetic signatures with non-Jews from the Middle East, including Palestinians, Syrians, and Lebanese. This suggests that Jews and Arabs are more closely related to one another than to non-Jews from other areas of ...

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2000

A new picture of the brain may reveal the key to Alzheimer's

A new imaging technique reveals disrupted microcolumns in brains affected by Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia, suggesting a link between microcolumn organization and cognitive impairment. The study found that the absence of microcolumns correlates with the number of fibrillary tangles, but not senile neuritic plaques.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2000

New genes and old genes contribute to personality traits

Researchers found associations between certain personality traits and a polymorphic region in the human AP-2beta gene. These traits include muscular tension, guilt, somatic anxiety, psychasthenia, and indirect aggression. The study suggests a novel approach to understanding the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders and personality.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 7, 2000

Chill out

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a new thermoelectric material that can cool computer chips more efficiently than existing materials. This innovation has the potential to increase computer speed and extend processor lifetimes, making it an attractive solution for the Navy's environmentally friendly cooling needs.

Genes and violent suicide

Researchers found a significant association between the L/S and S/S alleles of the serotonin transporter gene promoter region and suicidal tendencies in individuals with unknown psychiatric diagnosis. The study suggests that genetic factors, such as the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism, may contribute to autoaggressive behavior and violent suicide.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 7, 2000