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Newly identified mechanism solves enduring mystery of key element of cellular organization

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified a mechanism underlying the formation of stress granules in cells under stress, which are linked to degenerative diseases such as ALS. The study reveals that mutations in proteins involved in stress granule assembly can lead to toxic fibrils and disease progression.

Stress during pregnancy can affect fetal development

A study published in The Journal of Physiology found that high stress levels in pregnant mice led to increased cortisol levels, causing mothers to eat more but reducing placental glucose transport. This can result in decreased fetal weight and long-term metabolic health implications for children.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateJan 25, 2015

Two stressed people equals less stress

A new study from the USC Marshall School of Business found that sharing feelings with someone having a similar emotional response to a threatening situation can help decrease stress. By discussing their emotions, individuals can experience reduced levels of stress-related hormones like cortisol.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 29, 2014

Misinterpretation of study

A study published in the journal Physiology & Behavior found that cats from multi-cat households do not exhibit higher stress levels than those from single-cat households. The researchers discovered that a cat's personality, as classified by its owner, plays a significant role in determining its stress response to stroking.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateOct 16, 2013

Working to the beat

Researchers found that producing music decreases perceived physical strain and increases muscle effectiveness during exercise. This breakthrough insight sheds light on the therapeutic power of music and its role in human society.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2013

Reframing stress: Stage fright can be your friend

A new study found that encouraging people to reframe their natural bodily signals as helpful during stressful speaking tasks can improve performance. The study used the Trier Social Stress Test and found that participants who were prepped about the benefits of stress weathered the trial better, with increased blood flow and fewer physi...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateApr 8, 2013

Series of studies first to examine acupuncture's mechanisms of action

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center have demonstrated how acupuncture can significantly reduce the stress hormone response in an animal model of chronic stress. The study used rats and found that electronic acupuncture blocks the chronic, stress-induced elevations of the HPA axis hormones and the sympathetic NPY pathway.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Endocrinology·DateMar 14, 2013

Voting in national elections causes stress and emotional arousal according to Ben-Gurion University study

A study published in European Neuropsychopharmacology found that voting in national elections triggers measurable hormonal changes and emotional reactions. The cortisol levels of participants were nearly three times higher just before voting compared to the control group, indicating significant stress and arousal.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalEuropean Neuropsychopharmacology·DateOct 10, 2012

For young birds, getting stressed out can be a good thing

Recent research on young songbirds found that elevated glucocorticoid hormones can improve movement, feeding, and anti-predator behaviors, leading to greater survival rates. The study, published in Functional Ecology, suggests that stress is more complex than previously thought and may be beneficial for vulnerable stages of development.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateAug 10, 2012

Chronic stress in elephants can affect long-term behavior

Research on elephants in South Africa reveals chronic stress leads to 'refuge behavior,' changing space use and preferences. Higher physiological stress levels result in 20-43% lower land usage, highlighting the need for wildlife management projects to consider these effects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2012

The best medicine for productivity

A new study from the University of Haifa found that emotional and instrumental support from a supervisor can significantly reduce employee absenteeism and increase productivity. The study also highlights the importance of co-worker support in mitigating the effects of stress at work, leading to improved overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalEuropean Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Mechanism sheds light on how the brain adapts to stress

Researchers discovered a novel intracellular signaling pathway controlling stress-induced CRH gene expression, revealing a key role for Orthopedia protein in stress adaptation. This regulation is critical for neuronal adaptation and failure to activate or terminate the CRH response can lead to chronic pathological conditions.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJan 25, 2012

Breakthrough brain study reveals stress code

Neuroscientists at the University of Leicester discovered a protein called lipocalin-2 that helps regulate dendritic spine formation and maturation, reducing future anxiety associated with stressful events. The study found that mice without this protein were more anxious and had stronger memories of stressful events.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2011