This week's Newswise highlights feature groundbreaking research from top institutions:

• American Academy of Neurology – Microplastics in ocean water have been linked to higher disability rates in coastal communities, affecting memory, mobility, and daily activities.

• University of Florida – Research shows that violence can alter human genes for generations, with genetic changes observed in the grandchildren of those affected by historical conflicts.

• Rutgers University – Parenthood may help keep the brain young, as parents with more children show stronger connectivity in key brain networks.

• University of South Australia – Dating apps are driving an increase in cosmetic procedures, with around 20% of women influenced to use dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections.

• Tulane University – Experts outline steps to prevent bird flu from mutating into a human-transmissible virus, including increased screening, air filtration, and public health preparedness.