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BU finds potentially harmful air contamination near new Bedford Harbor

A new Boston University School of Public Health study estimates the non-cancer health effects of breathing airborne PCBs around New Bedford Harbor, affecting thyroid hormones in people living close to the harbor. The levels of PCBs in the air are high enough to raise risks of diabetes, low birth weight, and impaired neurodevelopment.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 3, 2019

Stress hormone helps control the circadian rhythm of brain cells

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered that stress hormones, such as corticosterone, play a crucial role in controlling the circadian rhythm of brain cells. By using test rats and a new method involving medical micropumps, they were able to restore the rhythmic activity of clock genes in the cerebellum even after t...

How plants synthesize salicylic acid

An international research team led by the University of Göttingen has unraveled the mechanism for the biosynthesis of salicylic acid in plants. The study reveals that isochorismate-derived compounds accumulate when a specific gene is removed, leading to the formation of salicylic acid.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience·DateAug 13, 2019

Stressed? Take a 20-minute nature pill

A study published in Frontiers found that taking a 20- to 30-minute nature experience significantly lowers cortisol levels. The research suggests a daily dose of 'nature pills' could be a simple and effective way to reduce stress.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 4, 2019

What you eat could impact your brain and memory

Researchers at Iowa State University discovered a link between the satiety hormone Cholecystokinin and reduced Alzheimer's disease risk, with higher levels associated with a 65% decrease in cognitive impairment. The study suggests that dietary factors may play a role in preventing or slowing disease progression.

SourceIowa State University·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJan 28, 2019

Long-acting contraceptive designed to be self-administered via microneedle patch

A new long-acting contraceptive designed for self-administration via microneedle patch technology has shown promise in animal testing, providing a therapeutic level of contraception for over a month with a single application. The experimental patch uses biodegradable polymers to slowly release the contraceptive hormone levonorgestrel.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 14, 2019

Beware of evening stress

Research at Hokkaido University found that the body's stress response is weaker in the evening, potentially making individuals more susceptible to stress. Cortisol levels were significantly higher in volunteers who took a morning stress test compared to those who took an evening test.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology Reports·DateNov 26, 2018

Could thyroid screening make your baby smarter?

A new review highlights growing evidence that universal thyroid testing in early pregnancy can reduce obstetric complications and safeguard fetal brain development. However, the risks of overdiagnosis and overtreatment must be carefully considered to avoid unwarranted patient anxiety and potential harm.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·DateOct 25, 2018

Many infertile men have undiagnosed prediabetes

A recent study of 744 infertile men found that 15.4% had undiagnosed prediabetes, with factors including older age and high follicle stimulating hormone levels linked to the condition. The study suggests that infertility in men may be associated with impaired glucose metabolism.

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateOct 17, 2018

'Gut sense' is hardwired, not hormonal

Scientists have discovered a neural superhighway that enables rapid communication between the gut and brain, contradicting decades of research on hormonal transmission. This breakthrough has profound implications for our understanding of appetite and other gut-related disorders.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateSep 20, 2018

Largest study yet shows type of underwear is linked to men's semen quality

A new study published in Human Reproduction journal found that men who wear boxer shorts have higher sperm concentrations than those who wear tighter fitting underwear. The researchers also discovered a link between the type of underwear and lower levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates sperm production.

Father's genes can impact motherly love

Research in genetically altered mice reveals that paternal genes can affect the type of care a mother provides to her offspring both before and after birth. This study suggests that a father's genes can impact maternal behavior, potentially affecting the wellbeing of the new baby and their lifelong mental health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 31, 2018

Molecular basis of aggression

Researchers identified autoantibodies against adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in aggressive male prison inmates, showing altered cortisol secretion and decreased time to attack in mice. These findings suggest potential molecular mechanisms underlying human aggression and stress response.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2018

Scientists identify two hormones that burn fat faster, prevent and reverse diabetes in mice

Researchers discovered naturally occurring hormones 'notum' and 'lipocalin-5' that accelerate fat burning and protect against Type 2 diabetes. Lipocalin-5 also enhances muscle's ability to metabolize nutrients, reducing obesity and diabetes risk. The findings could lead to new drugs for halting obesity and heart disease.

Why alcohol, sugar lead to thirst

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identify a hormone that stimulates thirst in response to nutrient stresses, challenging traditional views on hydration. The study's findings suggest that FGF21 works through a novel pathway to increase water intake, potentially limiting alcohol consumption and protecting against its effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 12, 2018

FASEB Journal: Study shows offspring response to maternal diet and male hormone

A novel study found sex-specific responses to maternal diet and androgen excess in animal offspring, with female offspring developing anxiety-like behavior due to maternal androgen exposure. Male offspring were unaffected by maternal androgens but displayed anxiety-like behavior on a high-fat-high-sucrose diet.