Monthly Archives: May 2015

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin important in synaptic plasticity. BDNF is initially synthesized as precursor proBDNF, and then the BDNF pro-peptide is simultaneously produced from the precursor protein. The physiological functions of the pro-peptide are largely unknown. Here, … Continue reading

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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is estimated to affect 8-12% of school-age children worldwide. In this study, Richardson and colleagues used behavioral, molecular, and neurochemical techniques to characterize the effects of developmental exposure to the pyrethroid pesticide deltamethrin. They also used … Continue reading

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The authors sought to identify diagnostic risk factors of manic, mixed, or hypomanic episodes in the offspring of parents with bipolar disorder. High-risk offspring 6-18 years old (N=391) and demographically matched offspring (N=248) of community parents without bipolar disorder were … Continue reading

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“Bipolar disorder has been related to heightened creativity, yet core questions remain unaddressed about this association. [The authors] used qualitative methods to investigate how highly creative individuals with bipolar disorder understand the role of symptoms and treatment in their creativity, … Continue reading

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In the field of bipolar disorder research there is an absence of validated biomarkers and limited understanding of the biology underlying excessive and premature cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to examine psychiatric and cardiovascular characteristics associated with … Continue reading

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“The transmission of anxiety within families is well recognized, but the underlying processes are poorly understood. Twin studies of adolescent anxiety demonstrate both genetic and environmental influence, and multiple aspects of parenting are associated with offspring anxiety. To date, the … Continue reading

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