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Cognitive tests in infancy can offer insight into intelligence at age 30 and beyond

A study of over 1,000 twins found that cognitive tests in infancy can predict adult intelligence and cognition, with environmental influences playing a significant role. Early life environments, including pre-preschool years, matter more than previously thought, suggesting potential interventions to support cognitive aging.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 18, 2025

Teens who view their homes as more chaotic than their siblings have poorer mental health in adulthood

A new study reveals that teenagers who perceive their households as more unstructured and disorganized than their siblings develop more mental health problems in early adulthood. The findings suggest that psychologists could develop interventions to modify adolescents' perceptions of their home environments.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Epigenetic signature for obesity found in study of twins

Researchers found an epigenetic signature in cheek cells of obese twins that differs from their thinner siblings, suggesting a susceptibility to obesity may be written into molecular processes. The discovery could lead to a simple cheek swab test for an obesity biomarker and enable earlier prevention methods.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEpigenetics·DateNov 1, 2023

The same genes may be behind cardiometabolic diseases and dementia

A new twin study by Karolinska Institutet suggests that the same genes may be behind both cardiometabolic diseases and dementia. The study found that individuals with multiple cardiometabolic conditions had a significantly increased risk of developing dementia.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 12, 2023

New insights on the genetic underpinnings of the vocal tract

A study using 3D MRI in 632 monozygotic and dizygotic twins found that genetic and environmental factors interact to shape the vocal tract, with some structures having low heritability. The results provide new evidence on the relative contributions of genetics and environment to anatomical differences among people.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalHuman Genetics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 11, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Love of nature is partially heritable, study of twins shows

A large-scale study of UK twins found that identical twins shared a greater affinity for nature and frequent visits to natural spaces compared to fraternal twins. Heritability estimates ranged from 46% for nature orientation to 34% for garden visits, suggesting a moderate genetic influence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

Genetics, not the intrauterine environment, controls abnormal development

A Yale University study found that genetic factors control developmental abnormalities, including pregnancy loss and autism. Researchers examined placental data from nearly 50 sets of twins and discovered similar frequencies of abnormal cell growths in identical twins, suggesting genetics play a key role.

SourceYale University·JournalPlacenta·DateMay 3, 2021

Why does love of bargain hunting run in families?

A new study found that 70% of variability in deal proneness is associated with genetic factors, highlighting the existence of a heritable component. The research compared identical and fraternal twins, revealing stronger similarities in deal-proneness among identical twins.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateFeb 9, 2021

Genes play a role in common knee injury

Researchers at Lund University found that genes contribute more than previously thought to knee injuries, accounting for 69% of cases. The genetic risk was equally high in men and women, suggesting a possible preventive strategy by family members.

SourceLund University·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateDec 15, 2020

Genetic variation contributes to individual differences in pleasure

Research using identical and fraternal twins suggests that genetic variation contributes to individual differences in pleasure and reward processing. The study found that activation of the nucleus accumbens, a key structure in the brain's reward system, is moderately heritable, as are scores for physical anhedonia and pleasure.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 8, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Genetic factors that make babies susceptible to complications from Zika are identified

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.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

Study: While trust is inherited, distrust is not

A recent study led by the University of Arizona found that trust is significantly influenced by genetics, while distrust appears to be primarily socialized. The research suggests that trust and distrust are distinct qualities, with genetics playing a more significant role in shaping trust behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2017

Why fraternal twins run in families

Researchers identified two genes associated with twinning, including one linked to higher levels of FSH that may lead to multiple eggs being released at once. The findings have implications for infertility treatments and may help predict how women respond to fertility treatments.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 28, 2016

Researchers find the genes that influence dizygotic twinning and fertility

A study by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam has identified two genetic variants that increase the chance of mothers having dizygotic twins. These variants are associated with fertility measures such as age of first menstruation and polycystic ovary syndrome, a major cause of infertility in women.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 28, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Lifespan -- genetic background and physical activity

A new study investigates the relationships between genetic background, physical activity level, and lifespan. The findings reveal that same genetic factors affect physical activity level, aerobic capacity, and lifespan in both animal models and human twins. Voluntary running improved glucose metabolism but did not increase lifespan in ...

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 16, 2015

Key genetic link between chronic pain conditions like IBS discovered

A study published in Pain journal found a genetic link between four common chronic pain syndromes, including IBS, musculoskeletal pain, pelvic pain, and dry eye disease. The research team analyzed over 8,000 twin pairs and concluded that each of the conditions is heritable, with a common genetic pathway estimated to be 66% heritable.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPain·DateMay 20, 2014

CU study relies on twins and their parents to understand height-IQ connection

A CU-Boulder study finds that the link between height and IQ is due to both genetic factors, such as pleiotropy, and mate choice, where taller individuals are more likely to pair with smarter counterparts. The research used data from over 7,900 twins and their parents to disentangle these causes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 27, 2013

Genetics plays major role in victimization in elementary school

A study of over 800 twins found that genetic factors account for 73% of relationship problems in kindergarten through Grade 4. Identifying children at risk early on can help intervene and prevent chronic rejection or victimization, which can lead to academic, health, and mental health issues.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalChild Development·DateJan 16, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Fainting: All in the family?

Research found that fainting triggers were common among twin sets, with identical twins more likely to experience fainting associated with typical triggers. The study suggests multiple genes and environmental factors influence the phenomenon of fainting.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 6, 2012

UMass Medical School study points to genetic link in apnea of prematurity

A UMass Medical School study found a genetic link in apnea of prematurity (AOP), with identical twins showing an 87% correlation. The research suggests heredity may play a strong role in determining an infant's susceptibility to AOP, leading to the development of more effective treatments and screening methods.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 2, 2010

Survey says: Genetics affect whether we're willing to take surveys

A new study from North Carolina State University found that genetics play a key role in whether someone is willing to participate in surveys. The research involved sending surveys to over 1,000 sets of twins and measuring response rates. Interestingly, the behavior of identical twins was a good predictor for each other, but not for fra...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateAug 30, 2010
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Ability to listen to 2 things at once is largely inherited, says twin study

A twin study published by the NIH/NIDCD found that a person's ability to process multiple sounds simultaneously is largely inherited. The researchers discovered that identical twins were more similar in their dichotic listening abilities, with a strong genetic component responsible for up to 73% of the variation.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders·JournalHuman Genetics·DateJul 17, 2007

American research finds twins more likely to have premature menopause

A study of over 800 twin pairs found that premature ovarian failure was three to five times greater in twins at ages 40 and 45 compared to the general population. This finding applies to both identical and non-identical twins, with a significant association observed between twin disparities in menopausal ages.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateOct 24, 2006

Genetic factors influence propensity to bone fractures in elderly

The study found that heritability of osteoporotic fractures is stronger than previously estimated, especially for early-occurring fractures. Genetic variation in liability to fracture differed considerably by type of fracture and age at fracture event.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 12, 2005

Our genes make us like people like us

A study of twins and their partners/friends reveals a strong genetic component to our tendency to seek out people like ourselves. The researchers found that 34% of preference for similar mates was due to shared genes, with the greatest self-similarity seen in more heritable items.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 26, 2005
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

A startling diary reveals the onset of autism

A meticulous diary kept by a mother of twins has revealed indicators of autistic behaviour in children as young as six months of age. Children with autism develop normally for six months, then begin developing atypically, according to research published in Neurocase.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNeurocase·DateFeb 11, 2005

Biology is not always destiny in Alzheimer's, says new twins data

Research suggests that genetics studies demonstrate a significant impact of environment on Alzheimer's disease. Low levels of education are also found to be a risk factor for all groups, including identical twins. Additionally, disclosing an Alzheimer susceptibility gene does not increase anxiety about developing the disease.

SourceAlzheimer's Association·DateJul 21, 2004

Close communication between identical twins helps them live longer

Identical twins who communicated once a month or more lived significantly longer than those with less frequent contact, outliving fraternal twins by nearly two years. Frequent social interaction among identical twins appears to contribute to their longevity.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·DateJun 10, 2003

Genes have a much greater role than environmental factors in asthma

A study of 4,910 four-year-old twins found that genetic factors account for the largest share of asthma prevalence, with genes contributing 68% and environment accounting for just 13%. Environmental factors such as family diet and air pollution are likely to be much less important than genetic make-up.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateOct 21, 2001
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Girls make twin brothers heavier (p 560)

A Belgian study of non-identical twins found that female twins prolong gestation by 0.4 weeks, resulting in a higher birthweight for their male co-twin. Birthweights of unlike-sex twins were also compared, with female twins having similar weights to same-sex twins but male twins weighing an average of 78g more.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 16, 2001

Chronic fatigue associated with additional health problems

A study of identical twins found a significant association between chronic fatigue syndrome and an increased incidence of fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. The researchers suggest that physicians should assess CFS patients for other clinical conditions, as these illnesses can compound the condition's high costs.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2001
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Bullying Behavior: Blame It On Bad Genes?

A study involving 1,500 pairs of Swedish and British twins found that aggressive behavior can be inherited, while social environment plays a crucial role in non-aggressive antisocial behavior. The research revealed different etiologies for aggressive and non-aggressive behaviors in boys and girls.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalChild Development·DateMar 9, 1999

Combat Has Little Influence On Health Problems In Vietnam Vets

A study of over 4,700 twin brothers found that combat had a minor role in health issues such as hypertension, respiratory difficulties, and gastrointestinal disorders. Inherited factors accounted for 90% of reported health problems, with combat experience explaining less than 1%. The research suggests that environmental experiences oth...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateSep 23, 1998

Women Can Inherit Drinking Problem Too, Study Finds

A twin study found that genetic factors play a significant role in determining alcohol dependence risk in women, contradicting the long-held assumption that environment influences alcoholism more in women. Women with an alcoholic identical twin sister are six times more likely to be alcohol dependent.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateMar 1, 1998