New in everyday gadgets and technology advances

Butterfly effect and autism spectrum disorder

A study conducted by researchers at the RIKEN Center for Brain Science (CBS) has shed light on the genetics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They found that a particular type of genetic mutation contributes to ASD differently than typical mutations. By analyzing mutations in the genomes of individuals and their families, the researchers discovered that the three-dimensional structure of the genome can cause mutations to affect neighboring genes associated with ASD, even without mutations in ASD-related genes. The study was published in the scientific journal Cell Genomics on January 26. ASD is a group of conditions characterized by repetitive behaviors and social interaction difficulties. Although the condition runs in families, its heritability is complex and only partially understood. According to studies, the high heritability cannot be explained by merely looking at the part of the genome responsible for protein coding. Instead, the answer could lie in the non-coding regions of t...

Charging Implanted Heart Pumps Wirelessly

Mechanical pumps to give failing hearts a boost were originally developed as temporary measures for patients awaiting a heart transplant. But as the technology has improved, these ventricular assist devices commonly operate in patients for years, including in former vice-president Dick Cheney, whose implant this month celebrates its one-year anniversary. Prolonged use, however, has its own problems. The power cord that protrudes through the patient's belly is cumbersome and prone to infection over time. Infections occur in close to 40 percent of patients, are the leading cause of rehospitalization, and can be fatal. Researchers at the University of Washington and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center have tested a wireless power system for ventricular assist devices. They recently presented the work in Washington, D.C. at the American Society for Artificial Internal Organs annual meeting, where it received the Willem Kolff/Donald B. Olsen Award for most promising research in...

Small Protein, Big Impact: Microprotein Discovery Offers Hope for Obesity and Aging

Researchers have uncovered a tiny but powerful protein that helps keep our cells’ energy factories humming – a discovery that could spark new approaches to tackling obesity and age-related decline. Scientists at the Salk Institute in La Jolla found that a “microprotein” in mouse fat cells plays a critical role in maintaining healthy mitochondria , the structures that generate energy in our cells. By preserving mitochondrial function, this diminutive protein helps cells burn fuel efficiently, which in turn could influence body weight and the aging process. The findings shine light on how molecular biology connects to everyday health, opening the door to science-backed strategies for better metabolism and longevity. Mature brown fat cells from a mouse, with the newly discovered microprotein shown in red inside mitochondria (green) and nuclei in blue. This tiny protein helps preserve mitochondrial health under stress. (Credit: Salk Institute) Mighty Mitochondria in ...

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