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Probing how CRISPR-Cas9 works

Scientists at UMass Chan Medical School discovered how CRISPR-Cas9 targets DNA in live cells, finding that guide RNA stability affects cleavage. The study's findings help predict off-target cuts and may improve gene editing tools.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateAug 26, 2016

Thirty years of research translates into new treatment strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome

After decades of research, scientists have made significant progress in understanding and treating PCOS, identifying potential biomarkers and developing new diagnostic tests. The review highlights innovative approaches, including genetic testing and hormone analysis, to improve early treatment strategies and prevent long-term complicat...

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateAug 4, 2016

The brain's super-sensitivity to curbs

Cognitive scientists at Johns Hopkins University found two distinct brain regions responding to visual boundaries and obstacles. The parahippocampal place area reacts to visual structures like curbs and walls, while the retrosplenial complex responds to taller, more imposing boundaries.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJul 27, 2016

A chair for getting fit and trim

Researchers at Bielefeld University developed an active chair as part of the KogniHome project, which uses a virtual avatar to lead family members in fitness exercises. The chair measures physical parameters like respiration and heart rate while monitoring healthy posture.

Mayo Clinic introduces precision medicine in psychiatry

Researchers at Mayo Clinic are exploring the potential of genetic testing and electronic health records to tailor antidepressant treatment. The study finds that genetic variation can affect patient reactions to drugs, offering a unique opportunity to develop pharmacogenetic guidelines.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJun 21, 2016

Special education professor advocates for steps to combat replication crisis in research

A University of Kansas special education professor advocates for increased use of single-case experimental research design to complement group experiments and address the replication crisis. This approach can lead to effective interventions and make replication less cumbersome, providing clarity on individual responses to interventions.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalRemedial and Special Education·DateJun 16, 2016

The Muffin Study: Mono- vs. polyunsaturated fats in patients with metabolic syndrome

A recent clinical trial found that patients with metabolic syndrome who consumed muffins enriched with safflower oil (PUFA) lost more weight and showed greater health improvements than those consuming muffins made with sunflower oil (MUFA). This is a significant finding, as the study suggests that PUFA may be a better choice for managi...

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Lipidology·DateJun 15, 2016

'Traffic-light' and numeric calorie labels cut calorie consumption by 10 percent

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that adding color-coded calorie labels to online food ordering systems reduces total calories ordered by about 10%. The simple traffic light labeling had a particularly strong impact among participants with low math skills and those who are obese.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJun 14, 2016