Articles tagged with Human Physiology
A new international study by Adelaide University researchers found that genetics influence how lifestyle-behavioural factors impact ageing. Healthier ageing is associated with greater physical activity, better diet, and higher educational attainment, while smoking and suboptimal sleep duration have negative effects.
A new study from Tulane University found that women with high predicted cardiovascular risk face nearly double the risk of hip fracture. The association was stronger in women under 65, and higher cardiovascular risk was linked to fractures in weakened bones in major areas.
Researchers found that penguins living in zoos with regular food access and limited physical activity age faster, but live longer than those in the wild. The study reveals a link between zoo conditions and accelerated aging mechanisms.
Researchers found that people following a Mediterranean-style diet have higher levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, which are linked to protection against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that specific components of the Mediterranean diet may directly influence mitochondrial biology.
Researchers from the University of Kansas used motion capture technology to analyze shooting mechanics, finding that greater flexibility in the preparatory phase is crucial for accuracy. The study's findings will be used to attempt a new world record for most consecutive made three-point shots.
A new study shows that high-intensity interval training increases the number of mitochondria and expands the active membrane, enhancing energy production and potentially improving endurance. The findings, published in the University of Southern Denmark, also suggest that muscle mitochondria are more adaptable than previously thought.
Researchers found that an approved antifibrotic drug, finerenone, can reduce ovarian fibrosis and promote follicle growth in women with premature ovarian insufficiency. Clinical trials showed that finerenone improved follicle development and mature oocyte quality in women with POI.
A new study by engineers at the University of Colorado Boulder found that dopamine influences movement speed, particularly when rewards are expected. The researchers discovered that people tend to move faster towards targets that offer rewards and experience a surge in energy when they receive unexpected treats.
A comprehensive study of collagen supplements found benefits in skin elasticity, hydration, and osteoarthritis symptoms. However, there were no meaningful improvements in sports performance or muscle recovery, dispelling some myths surrounding its use.
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a webinar highlighting recent clinical advances in breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and leukemia. Researchers will present key findings from ASH and SABCS meetings, impacting treatment outcomes.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center suggests that a simple blood test can accurately predict short-term survival in older adults by detecting specific piRNA molecules. Lower levels of these molecules are linked to longer survival, echoing patterns seen in simple organisms where reducing them can extend lifespan.
A group of nerve cells in the brainstem has been identified as a stabilizing system for blood pressure, preventing fluctuations between daily activities. The study suggests that loss or dysfunction of these cells can lead to unstable blood pressure and is associated with conditions such as multiple system atrophy.
Researchers at King's College London discovered that loose fabric can predict body movements with 40% more accuracy than traditional sensors. This breakthrough has potential to revolutionize personal health devices, robotics research, and medical research on conditions like Parkinson's.
A new global study finds that physical inactivity is a significant driver of diabetes complications, with up to 10% of cases potentially preventable. The research emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to promote physical activity among people with diabetes, particularly addressing social and gender inequalities.
A new study found that strength training is the most effective tool for achieving 'high-quality' weight loss, reducing body fat while preserving and even increasing muscle mass. This type of exercise also reduces waist circumference, a key indicator of abdominal obesity and cardiometabolic risk.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that football fans' mean stress level was 41% higher on the day of a major match compared to non-match days. Participants experienced increased heart rates, peaking during the match, and were more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking alcohol.
A new study from the University of Victoria found that higher insulin levels at age 47 predicted younger onsets of hot flashes and night sweats. Insulin may be a stronger predictor of hot flashes when taking other metabolic variables into account, while body mass index (BMI) appeared more closely associated with estrogen level changes.
Researchers from the University of Kansas discovered that taller, leaner athletes with improved jumping ability generate faster club head speeds. The study developed golf-specific load velocity profiles to help athletes and coaches develop plans for improvement, focusing on exercises like squats and building lean mass.
A study published in PLOS Biology found that males rate computer-generated figures with a larger penis as more intimidating and sexually competitive. Women also prefer taller, more V-shaped males with a larger penis, but beyond a certain point, further increases in size have diminishing benefits.
A new study published in Maturitas found that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is the most effective exercise type for reducing body fat and maintaining muscle mass in seniors. HIIT involved short bursts of intense exercise followed by easier recovery periods, which helped retain lean muscle mass.
A preclinical study shows that cannabidiol restores emotional behavior, reduces alcohol-related vulnerability, and reverses gut microbiota alterations caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Female mice particularly benefited from CBD treatment, which normalized their emotional alterations and eliminated vulnerability to alcohol addiction.
Researchers identified cilia-mediated Hedgehog signaling as a key regulator of tooth development. The study found that disrupting Cilk1 levels can lead to stepwise changes in tooth formation and morphology, including extra teeth or fused molars. This discovery may support earlier diagnosis for children with ciliopathies.
Researchers have identified an effective strategy to reduce structural liver damage and improve hepatic vascular function in cirrhosis. Blocking the PAF-R receptor can help rebalance immune and inflammatory responses within the liver.
Researchers found that the skin relies on TRPM8 sensor for cold detection, while internal organs primarily use TRPA1 sensor. This difference explains variations in external and internal cold perception, and has implications for understanding thermal homeostasis and pathologies related to cold sensitivity.
A novel analysis found that financial strain and food insecurity accelerate biological aging and increase mortality risk, surpassing traditional risk factors. The study emphasizes the need for targeted preventive interventions and patient-centered care to address social determinants of health.
A new study found menopause symptoms are frequently reported by female endurance athletes, with 88% experiencing sleep problems and 83% feeling physical and mental exhaustion. These symptoms negatively affect training and performance, particularly musculoskeletal changes and quality of life.
Research finds that standard road crossing intervals are too short for older adults with limited mobility, resulting in a need for slower crossings. The study analyzed walking speeds of 1,110 adults aged 65 and over and found that just 1.5% can cross the road within the typical time allowed by pedestrian signals.
A study of 349 new parents found intrusive thoughts and psychotic-like experiences more prevalent than thought, causing severe distress linked to higher parenting stress and lower satisfaction. The research highlights the need for normalisation, stigma reduction, and targeted support for affected parents.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have discovered a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease by targeting muscle protein Cathepsin B. The study found that increasing Ctsb in muscle tissue may offer protection against the effects of AD and promote brain cell growth, restoring protein balance and rebalancing brain activity.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully produced muscle tissue using a new biofabrication system called G-FLight in microgravity. The process enables rapid production of viable muscle constructs with similar cell viability and muscle fibers as those printed under gravity.
A recent study from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences uses wearable sensor technology and machine learning to estimate ground-reaction forces in runners. This data can provide insights into performance and injury, enabling the development of devices that deliver real-time feedback to users.
Research from UC Riverside found that fit mice increased voluntary running activity when deprived of water. The study suggests that physical fitness may provide a physiological buffer against dehydration, which could be beneficial for humans in a warming world and individuals working in physically demanding outdoor occupations.
A new Cochrane review found that immediate skin-to-skin contact between newborns and their mothers significantly improves exclusive breastfeeding rates, optimal body temperature, breathing, and heart rate. The review suggests that skin-to-skin contact should be the global standard of care for all babies after birth.
Researchers found that even extreme athletes cannot surpass an average metabolic ceiling of 2.5 times their basal metabolic rate in energy expenditure. The study tracked ultra-runners and cyclists, finding that while they can burn six to seven times their BMR during multi-day races, longer periods see a return to the predicted ceiling.
A new study from the University of Kansas found that football practices can be up to 40% more physically demanding than games, with defensive backs running farther distances. The research used GPS technology to measure training loads and provide insights for coaches and trainers to design optimal practice schedules.
A new study has identified a leptin-sensitive brain circuit in the lateral hypothalamus that helps animals overcome anxiety to perform essential behaviors such as eating, exploring, and limiting maladaptive hyperactivity. Boosting the activity of these neurons can restore adaptive choices even under conditions that cause anxiety.
Researchers from the University of Osaka have identified a crucial protein, TMEM217, that regulates sperm movement. By restoring the signal, they successfully treated immotile sperm and enabled them to fertilize eggs in vitro, leading to healthy births.
A new study led by MSU researchers explores the link between hormonal fluctuations during midlife and mental health outcomes like psychosis. The comprehensive study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, aims to identify women at risk and develop personalized treatments.
A new program called Period Prepared provides hands-on menstruation curriculum for students in grades 3-12. The curriculum aims to educate adolescents about menstrual hygiene, stigma, and cycle monitoring, promoting confidence and reducing distress associated with lack of knowledge.
A study found that lactate IV infusion increases brain-rejuvenating hormone BDNF levels in the bloodstream, similar to those after high-intensity exercise. The hormone promotes nerve cell growth and survival. Researchers suggest moderate exercise may be necessary for optimal benefits.
Research from the University of Copenhagen shows that exercising in nature improves mood, reduces stress levels, and boosts heart rate. Participants who exercised outdoors reported greater joy, satisfaction, and optimism than those who exercised in urban or indoor environments.
A new clinical trial found that feeding blueberries to infants as their first solid food can reduce allergy symptoms and support long-term health. The study suggests early introduction of blueberries may improve infants' immune systems and gut health.
A new University of South Florida study highlights the impact of menopause on women's voices, particularly those who rely on their voices professionally. The research outlines a range of treatment options, including AI-powered voice biomarkers, to detect subtle vocal changes linked to menopause.
A new evidence review reveals significant gaps in knowledge and support for Autistic people experiencing menopause symptoms, with many using non-medical coping strategies. The review identifies a need for targeted resources and interventions to address the unique challenges faced by Autistic individuals during this life stage.
The University of Bath conducted the largest growth and maturation study in world football, evaluating over 1,000 academy players in Scotland. The study found a strong bias toward early-developing players, raising questions about current selection and development practices.
Researchers discovered that immune cells called T cells are abundant in mammary glands during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with some relocating from the gut. This finding may help explain the benefits of breastfeeding and inform dietary decisions to enhance breast milk production and quality.
Researchers discover a novel metabolic pathway, glyoxalase system, that regulates excessive immune responses by targeting a previously underexplored metabolic pathway. The GLO2-SLG-D-lactylation pathway suppresses inflammatory signaling, reducing inflammation in acute and autoimmune disease settings.
A new survey conducted by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that only 1% of men are concerned about bone density, with cancer and heart disease being top concerns. Men can build back bone density through exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, and early intervention can prevent deadly fractures.
A new study by researchers at the University of Oregon found that hot-water immersion helped lower blood pressure and boost the immune system, while also improving vascular health. The study compared the physiological effects of soaking in a hot tub to sitting in a traditional dry heat sauna or a far-infrared sauna.
A world-first study suggests that a person's marathon potential may be identified through a simple check of their hands. Lower digit ratio is linked to cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise tolerance. This biomarker could help coaches identify talent or recreational athletes understand their endurance potential.
Researchers used a premature aging mouse model to study the effects of age and sex on osteocyte networks and bone structure. Aged PolgA mice showed accelerated skeletal aging, reduced osteocyte connectivity, and increased frailty, with males exhibiting more pronounced changes.
Creatine has broad health benefits beyond athletic performance, including maintaining energy in stressed cells and preventing muscle loss with aging. Studies have shown no significant side effects from creatine supplementation, contradicting common misconceptions.
Researchers developed an improved biological ageing clock, LinAge2, that offers doctors a practical way to assess how quickly a person is ageing and what can be done to slow it down. The new algorithm-powered tool outperforms other clinical models in predicting long-term mortality and health outcomes.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that teenagers in affluent counties like Surrey struggle with access to healthy food and exercise due to systemic issues. The research highlights the need for structural changes to support young people's health and wellbeing.
A new study suggests that women who spend more time in their reproductive phase may experience slower brain aging. Estradiol, the most potent form of estrogen during this period, may help protect the brain from age-related decline. However, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between estradiol and brain health.
A global study by UniSA researchers found that 94% of people who use wearable activity trackers are open to sharing their health information with healthcare providers. This could lead to more personalized and responsive care. The demand for personalized healthcare is on the rise, and wearable activity tracker market is increasing.
A University of Otago study found that prolactin helps regulate core body temperature during pregnancy, reducing the risk of hyperthermia. This adaptation promotes a safe environment for the fetus and enhances maternal survival and wellbeing.
A new study from the University of Michigan reveals that humans' circadian rhythms are still wild at heart, tracking seasonal changes in daylight. The research shows a genetic component to this seasonality, which could help explain individual differences in how strongly people are affected by changes in day length.
A new study found that living in disadvantaged neighborhoods can cause menopause to start earlier, leading to a higher risk of long-term health issues. The research followed nearly 700 women and found those in highly vulnerable areas experienced menopause approximately two years earlier.
Girls who enter puberty early have a higher BMI before, during, and after puberty, increasing the risk of overweight later in life. The study found that biological differences between sexes make girls more vulnerable to this impact.