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Inexplicable spasms can now be explained with hormones

Researchers at Aarhus University have found a hormonal link to unexplained seizures in women, revealing a biological cause for the previously psychologically attributed condition. The study measured hormone levels in patients with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) and found lower neuropeptide Y levels, associated with stress re...

SourceAarhus University·JournalStress·DateNov 3, 2017

Lactation hormone also helps a mother's brain

Researchers found that signalling by prolactin to its receptors is essential for mothers to show vital maternal nurturing behaviour towards their young. This discovery may explain why some animal species abandon their young and highlights the importance of prolactin in establishing a bond between mother and baby.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2017

Violent sleep patterns & stress hormones change after a violent crime in the neighborhood

A new study found that violent crime can disrupt sleep patterns and increase stress hormones in youth, leading to decreased academic performance. The study, conducted on 82 youth aged 11-18, showed that sleep and cortisol levels changed after a violent crime occurred nearby, with the largest effects seen for homicides.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 25, 2017

Got a sweet tooth? Blame your liver

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that a liver hormone called FGF21 may play a role in determining who has a sweet tooth. The researchers discovered two variants of the FGF21 gene associated with increased intake of sweets and candies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 2, 2017

Keeping up the pressure

Researchers discovered a separate mechanism in the brain that deals only with chronic stress, involving a small group of nerve cells in the paraventricular nucleus. The CRFR1 system is thought to play a role in regulating cortisol levels and may be involved in depression, with patients having more of this receptor than average.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateApr 9, 2017

Challenges of breeding 'VIPeas'

Crossing chickpeas is challenging due to self-pollination and inbreeding. Researchers found that emasculation and hormone treatment do not increase cross-pollination rates, instead lowering success rates. Studying environmental factors like light, temperature, and humidity may improve breeding efficiency.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 1, 2017

Sooner on your feet after hip fracture

A new study published in the Journal of Bone Joint Surgery has found that treatment with teriparatide accelerates bone healing and improves recovery after hip fractures. Patients who received teriparatide showed significant improvements in mobility and reduced pain compared to those treated with a different medication.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 21, 2016