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Greener pest control

A team of scientists is working on a project to create new pesticides that target specific insect species without harming beneficial ones. By mimicking the hormone systems of these insects, researchers hope to disrupt their reproductive cycles and prevent population explosions.

Smoking may affect some women's likelihood of giving birth to twins

A study discovered that smoking can raise the likelihood of producing twins in women with certain genetic backgrounds, particularly those with a variant in the TP53 gene. The researchers found significant interactions between smoking and genetic variations, suggesting a possible explanation for reports of mothers of twins being more li...

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateApr 20, 2015

'Exercise hormone' irisin may be a myth

Recent research suggests that irisin, believed to travel from muscle to fat tissue after exercise, may not exist in humans. New tests used in previous studies found antibodies were poorly vetted and nonspecific, leading to false positive results.

SourceDuke University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 9, 2015

Boy or girl? Lemur scents have the answer

Researchers found that pregnant lemur moms carrying boys produce simpler scents with fewer odor compounds compared to those carrying girls. The change in scent patterns correlates with changes in blood hormone levels. The study provides the first evidence of a pregnant mother's scent differing depending on the sex of her baby.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 24, 2015

Dresden researchers manage transplantation of adrenal cells encapsulated in a bioreactor

Researchers at the Technische Universität Dresden have successfully transplanted adrenal cells encapsulated in a bioreactor, paving the way for future human transplantation. This breakthrough could benefit patients with adrenal insufficiency and congenital diseases such as 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2015

Endocrine disruptors alter thyroid levels in pregnancy, may affect fetal brain development

A new study found that endocrine disrupting chemicals can interfere with thyroid hormone action in pregnant women and may travel across the placenta to affect fetal brain development. The study used a prospective birth cohort of 164 pregnant women and found associations between high levels of CYP1A1 enzyme and thyroid disruption.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 4, 2014

Zebrafish stripped of stripes

Scientists have discovered the role of thyroid hormone in the formation of zebrafish stripes and have found that cells responsible for producing orange color can transform into xanthophores through a process called 'transdifferentiation'. This finding could provide clues to regeneration of tissues and organs without stem cells.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2014

How age alters our immune response to bereavement

The study found that younger people have a more robust immune response to grief, while elderly people are more likely to experience reduced immune function. The researchers suggest that hormonal supplements could be used to help individuals at risk of stress, but highlight the importance of a strong support network in managing grief.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalImmunity & Ageing·DateSep 9, 2014

Spinach extract decreases cravings, aids weight loss

A study published at Lund University found that spinach extract containing thylakoids reduces hedonic hunger by up to 95% and increases weight loss by 43%. The study showed improved appetite control, healthier eating habits, and increased weight loss in participants who took the thylakoid extract before breakfast.

SourceLund University·JournalAppetite·DateSep 1, 2014

New trigger for ovulation could make IVF safer

Researchers have successfully used kisspeptin to stimulate ovulation in women undergoing IVF treatment, reducing the risk of OHSS. Twelve babies were born after their mothers received the hormone injection, with 12 becoming pregnant and nine having healthy embryos transferred.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 18, 2014

Attractive professional cyclists are faster

A recent study has demonstrated that women's preferences for facial attractiveness in professional cyclists coincide with improved endurance performance. The research, conducted by Erik Postma at the University of Zurich, analyzed over 800 portraits and found that attractive riders fared better during the Tour de France.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 5, 2014

Bonobos stay young longer

A study found that bonobos have higher levels of thyroid hormone T3 until adulthood, unlike humans and chimpanzees. This might impact their social behavior and cognitive development, potentially leading to delayed maturation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateDec 17, 2013

International study finds lower-dose IUDs are safe and effective

A recent international study found two lower-dose intrauterine contraceptive systems to be highly effective and well-tolerated over a three-year period. The devices were easier to use in women who had not delivered a child or had delivered by cesarean section, making them a suitable alternative for women seeking reduced hormone exposure.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 5, 2013