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Science News for December 11, 2003


Nature and nurture in temperament

A study found that NS temperament in adulthood was predicted by an interaction between the DRD4 gene polymorphism and a hostile childhood rearing environment. Participants with certain genetic variants and adverse childhood experiences had a higher risk of exhibiting high novelty seeking scores.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

Avoid bad memories: Targeting genes and drugs

Researchers discovered that stress can alter gene expression, leading to enhanced fear memory and long-term potentiation. By using a new gene-based 'antisense' drug, they successfully prevented these changes, attenuating the elevated freezing response and paving the way for novel treatments.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

Reading ability and ADHD affected by same genes

A genome-wide investigation found that reading ability in individuals with ADHD shares common genetic variants with the condition, but also has distinct genetic underpinnings. The study identified four chromosomal regions associated with reading ability, overlapping previously identified areas for ADHD and reading disorder.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

Hebrew University, German and British researchers develop means to help stress sufferers

Scientists at the Hebrew University and Max Planck Institute have discovered a gene-based approach to suppressing stress-induced reactions. They developed an 'antisense' agent that neutralizes the production of modified proteins, preventing extreme fright or immobilizing shock reactions associated with traumatic memories.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

Wanted: Help through the jungle of hospital care

The Lancet editorial highlights the need for improved patient and family support in hospitals, citing a tragic case of a chronically ill child's experience. The authors propose increasing liaison staff to at least two per ward to provide emotional wellbeing support and reduce stories like Michaela's in the medical community.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 11, 2003

Electrical stimulation in patients with paralysis and spinal cord injury

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation significantly improves tissue health and enhances the wellbeing and independence of veterans with spinal cord injuries. Additionally, orthoses selection can improve clinical outcomes following cervical injury, while a home exercise program can improve upper-body endurance in wheelchair users.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateDec 11, 2003

School controversy explored

The book examines how parental preferences influence the mix and quality of secondary schools, offering practical recommendations for policies on social justice and school improvement. It's based on a comprehensive analysis of figures from all schools in England and Wales over 13 years.

New risk factor for heart disease identified

A new study has identified a link between the size of apolipoprotein(a), a protein component of low-density lipoprotein, and an increased risk of heart disease in overweight individuals. The research suggests that analyzing apolipoprotein(a) size may provide a reliable way to discriminate between those at high risk and those without.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Cardiovascular Disorders·DateDec 11, 2003