Within a neurodevelopmental model of schizophrenia, prenatal developmental deviations are implicated as early signs of increased risk for future illness. External markers of central nervous system maldevelopment may provide information regarding the nature and timing of prenatal disruptions among individuals with schizophrenia. One such marker is dermatoglyphic abnormalities (DAs) or unusual epidermal ridge patterns. Studies targeting DAs as a potential sign of early developmental disruption have yielded mixed results with regard to the strength of the association between DAs and schizophrenia. The current study aimed to resolve these inconsistencies by conducting a meta-analysis examining the six most commonly cited dermatoglyphic features among individuals with diagnoses of schizophrenia. Twenty-two studies published between 1968 and 2012 were included. Results indicated significant but small effects for total finger ridge count and total A-B ridge count, with lower counts among individuals with schizophrenia relative to controls. Other DAs examined in the current meta-analysis did not yield significant effects. Total finger ridge count and total A-B ridge count appear to yield the most reliable dermatoglyphic differences between individuals with and without schizophrenia.

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Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Louisiana school-based health centers (SBHCs) were called on to respond to a sharp increase in mental health needs, especially for displaced students coping with grief, loss, trauma, and uncertainty. To assess the impact of the hurricanes on the students and the needs of SBHC mental health providers (MHPs), we surveyed MHPs in each of the SBHCs under the auspices of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health. SBHC practitioners from around the state reported that mental health service utilization rose during the 2005-2006 school year, but utilization of services increased most significantly in schools receiving the majority of displaced students. Anxiety and adjustment problems were noted as increasing the most following the hurricanes. A multitude of other conditions was also reported. By the time of this survey in April 2006, the reported prevalence of most symptoms had declined, but all remained above their pre-hurricane levels. Selfreported needs of SBHC MHPs are also discussed in light of the major natural disasters.