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and muscle glucose transport to help understand how this might contribute to the dysfunctional fear- stress-anxiety relationship. Primary Research Outcomes The hypersensitive response to fear or stress appears to be regulated by both the brain and other body systems. For example, research that members of the NoM Lab have contributed to over the last 10 years has identified that the female sex hormones, blood flow, the adrenal gland (an organ responsible for generating a stress response), skeletal muscle quality (e.g. health and functional capacity), and metabolic dysfunction all contribute to, in-part, this behaviour ( Fig. 2 ). Dr Lindsay has also shown that this behaviour is capable of worsening normal traits often associated with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and that it can be linked to disease severity. A comprehensive scientific summary of this behaviour can be found in Dr Lindsay’s recent review article in the scientific journal Progress in Neurobiology ( https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/38484964/ ) . Below is also a list of articles that members of the NoM Lab have contributed to in their journey to understand the hypersensitive response to fear or stress. Relevant articles and contact details: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39732163/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37015991/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34780665/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33734502/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32192914/ The guiding purpose of the NoM Lab is to improve the quality of life for those afflicted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and we recognise that neurological disorders such as a hypersensitive response to fear or stress can impact this basic and taken-for-granted component of daily human life. If you would like to discuss the content of this article with Dr Angus Lindsay, please contact him via email angus.lindsay@canterbury.ac.nz Pneumonia Vaccine Funding It is important our members stay well, particularly through the winter months. It is recommended that individuals with neuromuscular conditions receive vaccination for prevention of pneumococcal diseases, such as pneumonia, due to increased risk of not only becoming unwell but also the increased risk of complications if there is an inability to cough and clear the airways effectively. Pneumococcal vaccines are fully funded for children under 5 however government funding is not generally available for older children and adults. For this reason, you may not be eligible to receive a funded vaccine through your local general practice (GP). Because cost is a barrier to having the vaccine, MDANZ has a reimbursement programme available to members who have a neuromuscular condition. MDANZ will reimburse you the cost of receiving the Pneuomvax 23 vaccine at your local GP. Simply go online to complete the reimbursement form with your details, attach your receipt and you will be reimbursed within five working days. www.mda.org.nz/What-We-Offer/ Pneumonia-Vaccine-Funding Continued from page 17 RESEARCH NEWS