Shared Genetics for Cannabis Use and Psychiatric Disorders

Summary: Researchers discovered shared genetic underpinnings for cannabis use and psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Employing advanced statistical modeling, the study revealed a complex interplay of genetic variants…

Taking Strides: Why Walking Is Not So Popular in the U.S

Summary: Walking is less popular and more perilous in the U.S. than in other countries, according to a new study. Comparing U.S. statistics to European counterparts like the U.K., Germany,…

Eye Blood Vessel Changes: A New Window into Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Summary: Abnormalities in eye blood vessels could provide early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. By comparing blood vessels in the retinas of Alzheimer’s patients, individuals with mild cognitive impairment, and healthy…

Key Influencers in Cannabis Use Disorder Treatment Success Among Pregnant Women

Summary: Pregnant women are more likely to complete cannabis use disorder (CUD) treatment if referred by the justice system, community partners, or health care providers. The research provides novel insights…

Octopuses and squid are masters of RNA editing while leaving DNA intact

Citations S. Alon, et al. The majority of transcripts in the squid nervous system are extensively recoded by A-to-I RNA editing. eLife. January 8, 2015. doi: 10.7554/eLife.05198.  N. Liscovitch-Brauer, et…

How can we decrease risks of getting genetic-based diseases even if we carry potentially harmful genes?

The study of genetics has always been an attempt to understand our biologically determined fate. Many of us know of families with a predisposition to maladies like heart disease or…

Brain Connectivity a Potential Indicator of Suicide Risk

Summary: Researchers have identified a potential marker in the brain that might indicate an increased risk of suicide. They observed that veterans with a history of suicide attempts demonstrated distinct…

Large predators push coyotes and bobcats near people and to their demise

When wild animals take refuge from predators by straying near people, the illusion of safety can be deadly. In the wilderness, mid-sized predators like coyotes have learned to fear larger…

AI Voice Assistant Proves Effective in Mental Health Treatment

Summary: Researchers conducted a pioneering pilot study, utilizing an AI voice-based virtual coach, Lumen, for behavioral therapy. The study showed promising results, with improved depression and anxiety symptoms in patients…

Epstein-Barr Virus Antibodies Linked to Multiple Sclerosis Progression

Summary: Researchers have discovered a new link between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Their study revealed that certain antibodies, originally aimed at fighting EBV,…