Articles in Information
Genomic Technology Detects Fetal Problems Two new studies show the potential of a genomic technique to help spot abnormalities in fetuses that conventional methods can’t. One research team used the technology in prenatal testing. Another showed that it could help detect the reasons for stillbirths. The approach might allow better planning for early interventions. Some [...]
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Brain Changes as Trust Rises With Age Older adults are more likely than younger ones to perceive dishonest faces as trustworthy, according to a new study of social judgments and brain activity. The findings may help explain why older people are more likely to fall victim to fraud. Up to 80% of scam victims are [...]
Source of New Heart Cell Growth Discovered A study in mice suggests that new heart cells arise from pre-existing heart cells and that the renewal process slows with age. The findings may lead to improved regenerative therapy for people with heart damage. Dividing heart cells in newborn mice incorporate a tracer that can be seen [...]
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Forecasting Flu Outbreaks Scientists were able to forecast seasonal flu outbreaks using an approach common to weather prediction. The accomplishment lays the groundwork for systems to help public officials better predict and prepare for outbreaks. In temperate regions, people become sick from influenza infections most often during winter. Dry air appears to be a factor. [...]
Gene Variations Linked to Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers Researchers identified 3 genetic regions that predispose Asian women who’ve never smoked to lung cancer. The finding provides evidence that lung cancer among never-smokers can differ on a fundamental level from lung cancer in smokers. Up to 90% of lung cancer deaths can be attributed to smoking. [...]
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Old Habits Gone But Not Forgotten Scientists have identified a small region of the rat brain that seems to control whether certain habits will continue or be replaced by new habits. The finding offers insights into the brain pathways that help us shift between fixed and flexible behaviors. Habits are a powerful force in our [...]
A Little Exercise Might Lengthen Life A little physical activity can go a long way toward extending your life, regardless of your weight, a new study found. People who walked briskly or did other activity at only half the recommended amount gained nearly 2 years in life expectancy compared to inactive people. Those who exercised [...]
Gene Therapy for Salivary Gland Shows Promise An experimental trial showed that gene therapy can be performed safely in the human salivary gland. The accomplishment may one day lead to treatments to help head and neck cancer survivors who battle with chronic dry mouth. A mouse embryonic salivary gland.Credit: Melinda Larsen et al., Developmental Biology 255: [...]
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Technique Selectively Represses Immune System Researchers devised a way to successfully treat symptoms resembling multiple sclerosis in a mouse model. With further development, the technique might be used to treat multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders. Myelin (green) encases and protects nerve fibers (brown). A new technique prevents the immune system from attacking myelin [...]
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Cataloging Human Genetic Variation The world’s largest, most detailed catalog of human genetic variation—used by disease researchers around the world—has more than doubled in size. The newly published information will provide deeper insights into the genomic basis of human disease. Genetically, people are more than 99% alike. Although most of the variations between us have [...]
