Articles tagged with Psychiatry
Researchers investigated a repeat polymorphism in the estrogen receptor alpha gene and found associations with neuroticism, psychoticism, and non-conformity. The study suggests that genetic variations in this gene may contribute to specific components of personality.
Researchers found a significant association between the DQB1_05 and _04 alleles and sleepwalking disorder, suggesting that these genes play a role in disorders of motor control during sleep. The study identified Ser74 as a key genetic marker for sleepwalking, providing new insights into its underlying mechanisms.
Dr. Salzman, a Columbia University professor, has been awarded the Charles E. Culpeper Scholarship in Medical Science from the Rockefeller Brothers Fund. The award will support his research on understanding emotion and developing new treatments for psychiatric illness.
Quetiapine has delivered strong and positive results in treating acute mania associated with bipolar disorder, confirming its potential as an ideal first-line therapy. The medication also showed improved quality of life by minimizing side effects, making it a valuable treatment option for patients.
A multicenter study identified a positive association between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and a serotonergic receptor gene variant. This genetic phenotype may represent an early onset risk factor for the disorder, suggesting age of onset should be considered in molecular genetic studies.
A study led by VCU researchers identified a genetic link to bulimia nervosa on chromosome 10p, building upon prior research that found the disorder's heritability. The findings aim to inform the search for effective treatments and preventative therapies for bulimia.
Researchers will investigate brain structures controlling responses to rewarding stimuli and their role in mood regulation. The goal is to develop new treatments for depression, which affects 20% of Americans.
Researchers have identified a genetic basis for aggression and anger, with the vasopressin 1b receptor playing a key role. The study found that mice without this receptor exhibit reduced aggression and impaired social recognition, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for treating aggressive behavior.
Researchers have discovered a new structure in the human brain linked to learning and memory, called the marginal division (MrD). This pan-shaped structure, composed of spindle-shaped neurons, plays a key role in linking other memory-related structures.
The UNC Conte Center will conduct four interrelated studies using distinct research methods to identify critical brain events triggering the development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. The center aims to explain how certain behavioral and neurobiological factors transform normal individuals into those with schizophrenia.
A study published in The Lancet found that individuals with a family history of completed suicide and mental illness are two and a half times more likely to commit suicide than those without such a history. A family history of psychiatric illness increased suicide risk by around 50% for those without a prior psychiatric history.
A recent study by Dr. Gus Thompson found that Canadians, particularly Albertans, attribute schizophrenia to genetic factors and biochemical imbalances. Although stigma remains, the study shows a positive shift in perceptions towards mental illness over the past few decades.
The research aims to identify genes contributing to the development of anorexia nervosa, a serious and potentially lethal illness. The study will build on recent genetic studies and gather data from 400 families affected by the condition.
Researchers found that 43% of participants with mild cognitive impairment had psychiatric symptoms, and 75% of those with dementia did. The study highlights the importance of recognizing and treating these symptoms to improve patient outcomes.
A study found increased transmission of SNAP-25/DdeI variant in Irish ADHD trios, suggesting a genetic link between the SNAP gene and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential of SNAP gene variants as biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers found a common mutation in the DAT gene to be associated with trauma survivors who developed chronic PTSD, suggesting a genetic contribution to the disorder's development. The study implies that genetically determined variation in dopaminergic neurotransmission may play a role in shaping the pathological response to trauma.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found a link between a genetic variant of the serotonin receptor gene and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The research suggests that individuals with this variant may be more susceptible to developing OCD, potentially leading to earlier identification and treatment.
A genetic study in Palau reveals distinct genetic factors contributing to schizophrenia in each of five families. The findings reinforce the complexity of schizophrenia and demonstrate the value of large extended pedigrees for gene mapping.
Research suggests BDNF and NMDA receptor subunits are reduced in rats with early maternal deprivation, leading to changes in hippocampus function. This study provides evidence for the presence of molecular changes in the brain following exposure to stressful conditions during development.
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry found that the cannabinoid receptor is crucial for erasing fear behavior. In mouse models lacking this receptor, fear behavior evoked by an aversive acoustic sound was significantly reduced compared to normal control mice.
Researchers propose that schizophrenia may be triggered by an interaction between genes and viruses in glial cells, which can disrupt brain cell connections. This new hypothesis combines previous theories on the disease's causes, offering a potential explanation for its development.
A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that specific genetic markers on chromosome 2 are associated with severe depression in women, but not in men. This discovery suggests important differences in the molecular basis of clinical depression between sexes, which may contribute to varying treatment responses and symptoms.
A study found that patients taking olanzapine were at risk of developing diabetes, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with severe symptoms and even death. The researchers identified 289 cases of diabetes linked to the drug, highlighting a potential link between atypical antipsychotics and metabolic disorders.
Brain scans reveal abnormal brain structure and function at an early stage, suggesting a powerful predictor of future illness. This finding may enable treatment to prevent distressing symptoms like hallucinations from developing.
Research found that heavy drinkers exhibit a 'biphasic' response to alcohol, experiencing increased stimulation and euphoria during rising blood alcohol concentrations, but sedation and fatigue during declining levels. In contrast, light drinkers showed only sedation and no positive mood changes.
A study found that cognitive therapy was as effective as medication in treating severe depression, with a lower cost. Cognitive therapy showed a long-term cost benefit and offered enduring protection comparable to ongoing medication.
Stanford researchers have established a link between creative genius and mental illness, with healthy artists showing more similarities in personality to individuals with manic depression. Emotional range was found to be a key factor in this relationship.
A study conducted at Brown University found that 33 percent of psychiatric patients, compared to 13 percent of medical patients, reported significant symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psychiatric patients were more likely to experience trauma-related symptoms such as thinking about the attacks and avoiding reminders.
Researchers examined abstinent alcoholics and healthy controls to investigate motor functioning, finding impaired limb movements, gait, and postural stability. Alcoholic men showed slower movement speeds and jerky movements, while women displayed less impairment but still struggled with postural instability.
Studies reveal connections between the serotonin transporter gene SLC6A4 and autism, as well as a potential link between the glutamate receptor 6 (GluR6) gene and the syndrome. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the genetic underpinnings of autism.
The UC San Diego Department of Psychiatry will provide annual conferences, consultation services, and education campaigns to support SACPA's goal of reducing crime and improving health outcomes for non-violent offenders. The partnership aims to address the root causes of addiction as a public health issue.
Researchers have found a genetic susceptibility locus on chromosome 1 that may contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa. The study used a genome-wide linkage analysis and identified a possible AN-susceptibility gene on chromosome 1p, adding to growing evidence supporting the role of genetics in eating disorders.
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that nearly all antidepressant trials exclude patients with mild depression, anxiety disorders, or other psychiatric problems. This limits the generalizability of trial results and may lead to unjustified exposure of risks and side effects.
A multicentric study has identified an excess of allele1 for the GABRA3 gene in patients with bipolar disorder. This finding suggests a potential link between genetic variations and the development of manic-depressive illness.
A genetic study found that a polymorphism in the serotonin transporter promoter region is associated with mood response during tryptophan depletion, indicating a potential link between diet and depression relapse. The study suggests that individual genetic differences may influence the impact of dietary changes on depressive symptoms.
A study of 289 caregivers found that over 70% reported positive feelings towards caregiving, associated with reduced depression and better self-reported health. Knowledge of these positive aspects can help professionals identify risk factors and needs in caregivers.
A functional polymorphism within the m-opioid receptor gene has been linked to an increased risk of substance abuse, including alcohol and other substances. The study found that individuals with this genetic variation were more likely to develop addiction and engage in risky behavior.
Researchers found a correlation between older adults' use of speech and their ability to gesture, with more words spoken leading to lower scores on pantomime tasks. The study suggests that speaking may interfere with gesture production or be used as a substitute response to activate gestures.
A University of Illinois study suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a promising alternative to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for treating severe depression, with better tolerability and fewer side effects. rTMS showed significant improvement in depression scores, with a 55% reduction in the treatment g...
A Yale researcher found that men who witnessed combat are at risk for various current adverse outcomes, including post-traumatic stress disorder and job loss. The study suggests that providing quality mental health care and social services to veterans could mitigate these effects.
Researchers investigate genetic link between Prader-Willi syndrome and psychotic illness, finding association with a sex-specific imprinted gene on chromosome 15. The study suggests that allelic variation of this gene could be a cause of genetic vulnerability to psychotic illness in the general population.
Researchers found a genetic association between IL-1 receptor antagonist and ADHD, suggesting immune system involvement in childhood susceptibility. The study suggests that altered IL-1 activity may contribute to ADHD's dopaminergic reactivity.
A study by Dr. Kathryn Moss and colleagues found that the EEOC has never been funded to thoroughly investigate discrimination complaints, resulting in inconsistent outcomes. The commission's limited resources lead to prioritization issues and variability in benefits among different offices.
A systematic review in The Lancet estimates that six people would need to be detained for a year to prevent one violent act, raising concerns about the accuracy of forecasting dangerousness. Critics warn that this approach threatens to assume an Orwellian air, with psychiatry becoming increasingly coercive.
Researchers identified a mutated WFS1 gene responsible for low-frequency sensorineural hearing loss, which can lead to severe hearing aids requirements. The discovery may be common in the general population and could connect with other conditions like Meniere's Disease.
Johns Hopkins faculty members Kay Redfield Jamison and Geraldine Seydoux have been awarded the MacArthur Foundation's 'genius' award for their innovative research in psychology and biology. Their work has significantly advanced understanding of mental health treatment, psychiatric disorders, and biological development.
Five Yale researchers will continue their brain disorder research with a combined $100,000 in funding, totaling $3.9 million among 40 honored recipients. This support aims to discover causes and treatments for mental illness.
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found significant gender-related differences in the characteristics of male and female gamblers who called a helpline. Female gamblers were more likely to report non-strategic, less interpersonal forms of gambling and receiving mental health treatment.
Researchers found that divalproex sodium reduced the need for oxazepam and slowed worsening symptoms in a seven-day study. The anticonvulsant's anti-kindling properties may prevent nervous system hyperexcitability during alcohol withdrawal, making it a viable treatment option.
A study of 102 heart attack patients reveals that 40% experienced PTSD symptoms, with those having significant symptoms showing stronger association with nonadherence and more serious adverse events. This association was not explained by other psychiatric disorders.
A systematic review of literature found an association between positive expectations and improved outcomes in myocardial infarction, cardiac surgery, chronic pain, and psychiatric conditions. The mechanisms behind this association are still uncertain, with questions surrounding causality versus prediction.
Children prenatally exposed to alcohol demonstrate significant social and adaptive behavior deficits, but similar deficits are found in clinically referred children with no prenatal exposure. As prenatally exposed children age, their social difficulties become more pronounced, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues.
A recent study found that adolescents who participated in community-based treatment programs significantly reduced drug use and criminal behavior, and improved academic performance. Longer stays in treatment were associated with better outcomes.
The study aims to determine the scope and adequacy of adult day services in the US, identifying gaps in availability and utilization. It will help shape future directions for the field and inform planning at local, state, and federal levels.
A new national study in Canada aims to test different types and combinations of anti-depressants and fluorescent light therapy for patients with seasonal depression. Researchers hope to better understand this debilitating condition that affects over 600,000 Canadians each year, causing significant dysfunction and impairment.
Research suggests a genetic link between dopamine D4 receptor gene polymorphism and attachment disorganization in infants, with extensive disorganized behavior observed in up to 80% of high-risk infants. The study's findings imply a genetic susceptibility to the collapse of organized attachment under stress.
A new brain imaging study found that people with schizophrenia exhibit distinct brain changes at the earliest stages of the illness, potentially identifying warning signs and preventing development. The research suggests a role for brain imaging in pinpointing early signs and may lead to preventive psychiatry.
Research findings suggest that depression in children is linked to increased serotonin transporter availability, while dopamine levels are less significant. A family-based study also identifies a potential link between the DRD4 gene and ADHD, highlighting progress in understanding molecular basis of childhood mental illness.
The virtual reality experience, Paved with Fear, simulates daily activities for psychiatrists to grasp the impact of auditory and visual hallucinations. Developed in collaboration with patients, this innovative technology provides a unique understanding of the condition, ultimately enhancing treatment effectiveness.
A new 25-minute test distinguishes between different types of schizophrenia by measuring people's response to a sudden loud noise. Early onset schizophrenia has more severe information processing deficits and is less responsive to current treatments.