Are We Overestimating the Genetic Contribution to Schizophrenia?

Are we overestimating the genetic contribution to schizophrenia?

That genetic factors contribute to the etiology of schizophrenia is no longer debated; the nature and magnitude of that contribution, however, are still open for discussion. In this article, concordance rates for twin studies of schizophrenia are reviewed as one means of assessing the magnitude of the genetic contribution. Using only those studies in which representative samples were used and z...

I-36: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis - Where Have We Been and Where Are We Going

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is now considered routine in IVF laboratories with micromanipulation capability and access to genetic diagnostic services. The past two decades have witnessed a dramatic increase in the use of PGD, the number of cycles performed, and the indications for which PGD has been used. This increase has been mirrored by a slow, but steady, increase in the range o...

Reflection for the undergraduate on writing in the portfolio: where are we now and where are we going?

Introduction: The portfolio can be seen as a tool for assessmentof a variety of learning activities that differ in content, usage, andassessment. The portfolio not only meets the learner’s educationalneeds but also the political and public reassurance demand thatthe health professional has achieved the required competency ofthe curriculum that allows him or her to practice safely with orwithout...

Are we Overestimating the Number of Cell-Cycling Genes? The Impact of Background Models

Short inter-pregnancy interval and schizophrenia: overestimating the risk.

The short report by Gunawardana et al 1 succinctly argues that a short inter-pregnancy interval, a proxy for fetal undernutrition and stress, increases the offspring's risk of later schizophrenia. The authors hint at a causal relationship. This is compelling because it suggests that an affordable public health intervention via the promotion of dietary supplements in the postpartum period may la...