A genome survey indicates a possible susceptibility locus for bipolar disorder on chromosome 22.

Bipolar disorder or manic depressive illness is a major psychiatric disorder that is characterized by fluctuation between two abnormal mood states. Mania is accompanied by symptoms of euphoria, irritability, or excitation, whereas depression is associated with low mood and decreased motivation and energy. The etiology is currently unknown; however, numerous family, twin, and adoption studies have argued for a substantial genetic contribution. We have conducted a genome survey of bipolar disorder using 443 microsatellite markers in a set of 20 families from the general North American population to identify possible susceptibility loci. A maximum logarithm of odds score of 3.8 was obtained at D22S278 on 22q. Positive scores were found spanning a region of nearly 32 centimorgans (cM) on 22q, with a possible secondary peak at D22S419. Six other chromosomal regions yielded suggestive evidence for linkage: 3p21, 3q27, 5p15, 10q, 13q31-q34, and 21q22. The regions on 22q, 13q, and 10q have been implicated in studies of schizophrenia, suggesting the possible presence of susceptibility genes common to both disorders.

Update and Review: Supernumerary Marker Chromosomes.

Supernumerary marker chromosomes (SMCs) are found in individuals with normal and abnormal clinical phenotypes. Correlations between karyotype and phenotype have been made in only a few circumstances. This article summarizes the most recent information regarding supernumerary marker chromosomes, including genetic counseling issues.

Olympic athletes' transition from sport to workplace.

Research has supported the need for strategies to assist elite athletes with transition from full-time athletic activity to the work place. Early intervention with coaches' and peers' support programs have mediated the problems associated with the termination of athletic careers. The present study is a report about 57 prominent Olympians from 12 disciplines spanning 6 0 years of competitive sports. Analysis of the data suggests that focussed efforts early in the athletes' careers assisted preparation for life after the full athletic activity. Mentors not only assist in the athletes' careers but also offer guidance and counsel during later life.

Relationship of "risk" factors to teen substance use: a comparison of abstainers, infrequent users, and frequent users.

This study was designed for the purpose of investigating the differences between adolescent substance abstainers, infrequent users, and frequent users on risk factors for substance use related to commitment to education, peer influence, family relationships, and intrapersonal factors. Results from analyses comparing the three groups on the risk factor variables showed that teen substance abstainers and infrequent users are more similar to each other than they are similar to frequent substance users. The study provides support for the contention that preventive efforts may be more successful if targeted at clearly identified groups of problem teen substance users.

Driving while intoxicated: increased deterrence or alternative transportation for the drunk driver.

The current investigation was designed to examine the community impact from introducing free alternative transportation for the drunk/drugged driver in Sacramento, California. Baseline data were obtained from 1,522 bar and nightclub patrons in Sacramento and San Jose, California. The major findings show that drinking and driving is commonplace, as is riding with intoxicated motorists, in spite of the perceived unacceptability of this behavior. The majority of customers also noted they felt confident in their ability to drive safely when "feeling intoxicated." Increased law enforcement patrols are not seen as a deterrence to drunk driving behavior by the majority of respondents. If free alternative transportation was available for the drunk/drugged driver in the area surveyed, however, 85% of respondents said they "might use" to "definitely would use" the service.

Mood profiles of Masters track and field athletes.

In several studies attributing positive health benefits to running, the benefits include reduced depression, fatigue, anger, and increased vigor. Until now, little research has focused on Masters track and field athletes. The present study reports on 587 men and women Masters who participated in a mailed survey measuring mood states using the Profile of Mood States. In comparison to other groups of athletes, these Masters tend to be less depressed, less angry, and less fatigued. Attribution to lifestyle and maturity with their sport is discussed.

Targeting high-risk groups on campus for drug and alcohol prevention: an examination and assessment.

This study examines the ability of a long-standing, comprehensive drug and alcohol abuse prevention program at a New England University to accurately target persons at high risk for substance abuse. Results suggest that even a university with such a multifaceted program may not be successfully directing its services to those in greatest need. While moderate levels of awareness regarding prevention and treatment services do exist, heavier users are no more likely than lighter users to be knowledgeable about or to have received available educational or treatment assistance.

Perceived effectiveness of drinking--driving countermeasures: an evaluation of MADD.

Drunken driving has become widely recognized as a serious social problem. In recent years, several citizen activist groups have emerged to combat this problem. The leadership of 212 chapters of an organization called Mothers Against Drunk Driving was surveyed to obtain data on chapter emphasis, satisfaction, future involvement and perception of most effective countermeasures. On measures of perceived effectiveness of various countermeasures, chapter leaders ranked strong legal penalties and strict enforcement of driving while intoxicated (DWI) laws as most effective compared to prevention and treatment measures. Findings suggest a shift in emphasis toward a more criminal justice orientation.

Training for the Olympic Games with mind and body: two cases.

The fine-tuning effect and its enhancement of athletic competition are discussed. Presented are two case studies utilizing tailored programs of visualization, creative imagery, and relaxation techniques. The author provides a three-step program: refined training procedure, information search and a better understanding of athlete/therapist collaboration. Use of positive replacement imagery is described as an adjunct to the fine tuning effect.