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University of Washington


Baby's genome deciphered prenatally from parents' lab tests

Researchers successfully sequenced the fetal genome without invasive sampling, enabling the detection of thousands of disorders. They overcame obstacles by applying statistical modeling and technical advances to resolve maternal haplotypes with high accuracy. The breakthrough paves the way for comprehensive prenatal genetic screening.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 6, 2012

Mathematicians can conjure matter waves inside an invisible hat

A team of international mathematicians has devised an amplifier that can boost light, sound, or other waves while hiding them inside an invisible container. The researchers propose using this technology to manipulate matter waves, which could enable the creation of a quantum microscope to monitor electronic processes on computer chips.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 29, 2012

Abundance of rare DNA changes following population explosion may hold clues to common diseases

A recent study found that rare variations in the human genome, which occurred following a population explosion, may influence susceptibility to common diseases. The researchers analyzed the genetic code of over 2,400 individuals and discovered more than half a million single-letter DNA changes, many of which were predicted to be harmful.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateMay 17, 2012

Pediatricians' pain-medication judgments affected by unconscious racial bias, says UW study

A recent University of Washington study found that pediatricians who exhibit unconscious racial bias tend to prescribe better pain-management for white patients than they do for African-American patients. The study suggests that incorporating awareness of personal bias into medical education and training is necessary to avoid unintende...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 19, 2012