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Study suggests genetic factors associated with common fears

A recent study found that genetic risk factors for common fears, such as situational or blood-injury phobias, decline in importance during childhood and adolescence. However, new genetic influences emerge during early adolescence, late adolescence, and adulthood, suggesting a dynamic relationship between genetics and fear.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateApr 7, 2008

Some infertile couples unaware of multiple birth risks

The study found that one in five women seeking treatment desired multiples over having a singleton, while fewer knew about the increased risk of cerebral palsy and infant death for twins. Infertile couples view twins as a 'bonus' to quickly build their families, but this increases risks such as preterm delivery.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateApr 21, 2004

The name of the game

Researchers analyzed data from twin pairs to find a link between leisure activities and reduced cognitive impairment. The study found that greater overall participation in intellectual-cultural activities, such as reading or joining clubs, was associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Europe leads the world for IVF treatment

The report reveals big variations between countries, with France, Germany, and the UK carrying out more than half of all IVF treatments. Scandinavian countries and the Netherlands have the highest availability of IVF treatment, resulting in a significant number of children being born through IVF.

Twins

Recent research reveals a master regulator protein that prevents DNA replication at the wrong time in the cell cycle, ensuring each progeny cell has the correct number of gene-bearing chromosomes. This discovery could lead to new design principles for operating autonomous devices.