Articles tagged with Twin Studies
A new study finds that combining urban development and climate change caused by greenhouse gases will increase extreme precipitation over future US metropolitan regions. Cities like Atlanta, Denver, Phoenix, and Houston are vulnerable to flooding due to these twin forcing agents of environmental change.
A new study reveals a significant increase in global twin births, with about 1.6 million twins born each year worldwide. The rate has risen by a third since the 1980s, mainly due to growth in medically assisted reproduction and delayed childbearing.
Researchers found that catnip and silver vine contain intoxicating chemicals that repel mosquitoes when cats rub against them. The study identified nepetalactol as the most potent compound in silver vine leaves, which activates the opioid reward system in both domesticated felines and big jungle cats.
Researchers analyzed dietary habits of 2,590 twins using nine dietary indices and found identical twins were more similar than non-identical twins, suggesting a genetic component to food choices. The study highlights the complex relationship between genetics and environment in shaping eating behavior.
A new study identified novel metabolites and specific gut bacteria distinguishing healthy from food-allergic twin pairs. The research found that certain bacteria, such as Phascolarctobacterium faecium and Ruminococccus bromii, played a protective role against food allergies.
A study found mitochondrial dysfunction to be a common thread driving damage in astronauts' bodies during extended space travel. Researchers used data from various sources and identified alterations affecting biological function as the key issue.
Researchers studied the effects of long-duration space flight on telomere length and DNA damage in a group of 10 astronauts, finding evidence of oxidative stress and individual differences in responses. The study suggests that telomeres may be affected by chronic oxidative stress during spaceflight.
A study of twins found that one in four adults changed their alcohol use almost immediately after stay-at-home orders were issued, with 14% reporting higher levels of stress and anxiety. The study suggests a link between decreased drinking and increased mental health issues, highlighting the need for better support.
A new study published in Stroke Journal Report found a significant link between smoking and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a type of bleeding stroke. Heavy and moderate smokers had three times the risk of fatal SAH, while light smokers had slightly less risk.
A recent Finnish twin study reveals that smoking is the primary cause of subarachnoid hemorrhages, which account for up to half of all deaths within months of the haemorrhage. The research indicates a strong causal link between smoking and fatal brain haemorrhages, highlighting the importance of quitting or never starting smoking.
Research from Washington State University found that COVID-19 stress and anxiety can persist despite increased physical activity. The study of twins revealed no significant impact of exercise on handling stress and anxiety in the short term, suggesting other factors may be at play.
A recent study found that genetic background affects adaptations to aging in same-sex aging twins. DNA methylation changes correlate strongly with aging and are partly heritable in late life. The research highlights the role of genetic regulation in biological aging rates, including immune-inflammatory pathways.
A new study published in eLife found that twins who survive the loss of their co-twin are at an elevated risk of psychiatric disorders in both the short and longer term. The risk is highest for identical twins and those who experienced a co-twin's death during childhood or young adulthood.
Researchers found that genetic influences account for 45% of the variation in women's affectionate behavior, whereas environmental factors explain 55%. Men's affectionate behavior is entirely determined by their surroundings. The study aimed to determine whether social behaviors are learned or genetically driven.
A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that around 47% of sensitivity differences between individuals can be attributed to genetic factors. The research used data from the Twins Early Development Study and involved over 2,800 twins, including identical and non-identical pairs.
Researchers identified the optimal gestation week for twin births associated with the lowest risk of perinatal death and special education needs. Twins born between 32-34 weeks had the best outcomes.
A new study found that higher birthweight is associated with better cognitive and socioemotional outcomes in preschoolers, particularly for those from lower-income families. Weighing more than a twin at birth may predict greater school readiness and improved behavior.
A new study published in Science Advances identifies several common genetic pathways linked to compulsive behavior and addiction, including those related to heavy alcohol consumption. The research used genome-wide association studies and model organisms to pinpoint the genes responsible for high levels of alcohol intake.
Researchers used a genomics tool to analyze twins' gut microbial strains before and after separating. They found that certain strains remained stable over time, even after years of living apart. The study suggests the possibility of shared microbes between non-cohabitating twins for decades.
Young people's ratings of their family's social status correlate with crime conviction rates, employment, education, and mental health. By age 18, twins from lower-status families are more likely to experience poor outcomes.
A recent NIH-funded study analyzing data from 366 identical twin pairs found significant variability in autism symptom severity among those with ASD. The researchers estimated that only 9% of the cause of trait variation was attributed to genetic factors.
Researchers used specialized MRI techniques to follow patients with mild to moderate asthma over six years, finding consistent ventilation defects that persist over time. The studies refute the long-held belief that these defects are random and widespread, opening up opportunities for patient-specific treatments.
New research challenges traditional idea about relationship between alcohol use and brain size, suggesting that reduced brain volume may represent a genetically-conferred predispositional risk factor for heavier alcohol consumption. Longitudinal and family data from three independent brain imaging studies confirm this association.
A recent twin study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found a strong correlation between good cardiovascular health and improved cognitive function. The research suggests that adopting an ideal lifestyle with low CVH scores may not only reduce heart disease but also lower dementia risk.
A new study found that schizophrenia's neurobiological mechanisms vary between males and females, with many genes related to the illness expressed differently in each. This suggests that sex-specific treatments may be necessary to address the different underlying causes of schizophrenia in males and females.
A new study found that multiple-birth infants are at a higher risk of wrong-patient order errors in the NICU, with errors between siblings accounting for most excess risk. The risk grows with increasing number of siblings, and using given names or pseudonyms can help reduce the risk
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that children born by cesarean section had lower intellectual levels and cognitive development compared to those born vaginally. The research analyzed data from 160 twins and suggests that vaginal delivery may have benefits for psychological development.
A two-decade study on identical twins and triplets adopted as infants sheds light on the balance between nature and nurture in child development. The research aims to clarify historical misconceptions about twin studies and offers lessons for contemporary scientific inquiry.
The world's largest scientific nutrition research project found that individual responses to the same foods are unique, even between identical twins. This study challenges traditional dietary guidelines and suggests a personalized approach to nutrition for better long-term health benefits.
A new study published in Diabetologia found that type 2 diabetes in midlife is associated with a 30% increased risk of serious brain artery blockage leading to stroke. Additionally, individuals with T2DM at ages 40-59 years had double the risk of cerebral occlusion and a 30% higher risk of cerebral infarction.
A recent study using Swedish Twin Registry data found that genetic variation explains more than half of the variation in dog ownership, implying a significant role for genetics in determining who owns a dog. The study's findings have major implications for understanding dog-human interaction throughout history and modern times.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that genetic makeup does not predispose people to tooth decay, but children with overweight mothers are more likely to develop cavities. The research suggests that environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle play a significant role in dental health.
The NASA Twins Study found changes in gene expression and metabolite alterations that support the potential health effects of long-duration spaceflight on astronauts. The study also suggests that human health can be mostly sustained over a year-long space mission, with targeted countermeasures needed for future Mars missions.
The NASA Twins Study found that Scott Kelly's telomeres in white blood cells got longer while in space, contradicting initial expectations. This could mean a higher risk for accelerated aging and age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Scientists found no long-lasting, major differences between astronaut Scott Kelly's epigenome and his twin brother Mark's after a year in space. The study suggests that research on additional astronauts may help predict medical risks on long space journeys.
The NASA Twins Study found no significant health differences for astronaut Scott Kelly after spending nearly a year in orbit. However, changes were observed in his DNA methylation and gene expression, particularly related to the immune system, which may persist after his return to Earth.
A recent study published in Science found that a year-long mission to the International Space Station has a small but significant impact on the gut microbiome. The researchers discovered that the ratio of two dominant phyla of bacteria shifted during flight, but returned to normal after Scott Kelly's return to Earth.
The NASA Twin Study has provided a comprehensive multi-omics view of the human body's response to long-term space flight. The study found increased collagen proteins in urine, correlating with vascular remodeling during space flight.
Research reveals that chronic diseases significantly decrease mobility in older adults without them realizing it, affecting physical activity levels. Exercise therapies tailored to the type of disease can improve physical functioning and independent living possibilities.
A new study by Leanne Knobloch and her team provides guidance on supporting military couples during the reintegration process, highlighting the importance of providing ample support for at-home partners, addressing mental health symptoms, and working with couples to address relationship questions and disruptions.
A study found that female twins exposed to high levels of prenatal testosterone may be more likely to drop out of school, have fewer children, and earn lower salaries. Prenatal testosterone exposure is linked to various negative outcomes in human females.
Research finds that female twins exposed to prenatal testosterone from a male twin are less likely to graduate from high school or college, have lower fertility rates, and earn less by their early 30s. The study supports the 'twin testosterone-transfer hypothesis' and suggests long-term biological effects on behavior and outcomes.
A recent study by the University of Cambridge found that individuals who are slim and healthy tend to have fewer genetic variants associated with obesity. The researchers identified new genetic regions involved in severe obesity and those contributing to healthy thinness, suggesting a genetic advantage for those who maintain their weight.
A new study of twins found that genetic factors significantly impact the body's immune defense networks. The researchers analyzed blood samples from 1835 twins and thousands of siblings to understand how effectively their bodies deploy disease-fighting molecules.
Research from Duke University found that young people who self-harm and commit violent crime have a history of childhood maltreatment and lower self-control. Programs aimed at preventing childhood maltreatment or improving self-control among self-harmers could help prevent violent crime.
Research by Dr. Rebecca Waller found that parenting style can predict the emergence of aggressive and antisocial behavior in children, with harsher treatment and less emotional warmth increasing the risk of developing such traits.
Research from King's College London and UCL found that parents' feeding practices are shaped by their child's natural body weight, which is influenced by genes. Parents of children with a higher genetic predisposition to weight tend to be more restrictive, while those of children with a lower predisposition are more pressuring.
A twin study suggests that summer birth, hours spent playing computer games, and lower educational attainment are associated with a higher risk of developing myopia in childhood. Fertility treatment appears to afford protection against this condition, possibly due to smaller birth size and developmental delay.
Research from King's College London found that genetics explain 57% of the differences in A-level exam results and 46% of the difference in achievement at university. Shared environmental factors influence university choice, but become less important over time.
A study of teenage twins reveals that both genetic and environmental factors shape brain activity during sleep. The findings suggest that frontal regions are under stronger environmental control, while regions towards the back of the brain are more influenced by genetics.
Margaret Gatz, a renowned expert in clinical geropsychology, has been awarded the GSA's 2018 Distinguished Career Contribution to Gerontology Award. Her pioneering work includes the world's largest twin study of dementia and extensive research on age-related changes in depressive symptoms.
Researchers used a twin study to identify factors influencing chemical modifications to DNA across the genome, finding epigenetic marks are more similar between identical twins due to genetic variation. Environmental exposures like smoking and obesity also show partly genetic control.
Researchers studied identical 52-year-old twins with different fitness paths, revealing the importance of exercise in maintaining overall health. The athletic twin exhibited better cardiovascular and pulmonary health, as well as greater muscle strength and endurance, highlighting the benefits of regular physical activity.
The prevalence of twin births in PRE horses is higher than previously thought, with 14 documented cases. Chimerism was found to be associated with twin births but not linked to infertility, contrary to previous studies.
A study by King's College London found that lonely 18-year-olds are more likely to experience mental health issues and be out of work. The research highlights the importance of early intervention to prevent loneliness from affecting young adults' lives.
A new study found that extreme cold increases mortality and morbidity risks for people with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, while extreme heat is risky for those with renal diseases. The research aims to develop tailored public service risk communication strategies.
A study of over 11,000 twins found that children's reading level is highly heritable and determines their reading habits. The research highlights the importance of improving both reading skills and motivation to combat a cycle where children avoid reading due to difficulties.
Researchers found that genes in neural progenitor cells of affected babies were more active or less active in key signaling pathways, contributing to the development of congenital Zika syndrome. The study used twins and induced pluripotent stem cell technology to replicate the virus's effects in vitro.
Researchers at Osaka University found that differences in methylation patterns of specific genes and chromosomes are linked to the development of autoimmune thyroid diseases. This discovery highlights the importance of considering both genetic and epigenetic factors in diagnosing metabolic disorders.
Researchers analyzed birth and school records to examine environmental moderation of genetic influence on cognitive ability. They found no evidence supporting increased genetic influence in socioeconomically advantaged children.