Researchers found a correlation between the deletion or duplication of a section of genes on one particular chromosome and an increased risk of a child developing an autism disorder.
A study that asked mental health professionals to evaluate a hypothetical case history found biases based on the way the circumstances of the case were presented, and also due to professional orientation and training.
Because of the risks and challenges for the patient, those undergoing bariatric surgery should receive mental health care before the procedure and for an extended period of time after it.
Researchers wanted to see if bacteria in soil could break down toxins in farm waste. Their goal was to turn the waste into fuel. So they started by feeding the bacteria something really tough â antibiotics. Much to their surprise, many bacteria didn’t just survive. They grew and flourished on the antibiotic diet. Researchers now are trying to find out how they did it. The Associated Press wrote about the discovery April 3. It was published in the journal Science.
Researchers are investigating possible links between certain food additives (such as dyes and preservatives) and incidence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.
While there is a very small risk of suicide in adolescents who take antidepressants, they are also beneficial to many teenagers with depression. All factors should be weighed in treatment decisions, and patients should be monitored carefully.
Stress affects the brain’s ability to shift attention, think creatively, and solve problems, but if the stress is alleviated, the effects are unlikely to linger.
Teen drivers need experience behind the wheel to develop their skills, so instead of limiting driving time, parents should set limits on a teen’s driving behavior, such as having a nighttime curfew and limiting the number of passengers.
Involuntary outpatient commitment laws exist in most states, but enforcement varies. Two studies on the issue produced contrasting results.
Psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism are caused more by genes than by environment. An area of research is focusing on the influence of spontaneous mutations in DNA called copy number variation.