Researchers found that older adults experience physical weakness due to impairments in brain and nerve function, rather than muscle changes. The study suggests that addressing the nervous system's role could improve quality of life for older adults with age-related strength loss.
SourceOhio University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 9, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Researchers at U.S. Army Research Laboratory have made significant breakthroughs in developing artificial nanomotors inspired by biological molecules, which can harness Brownian motion for efficient energy production. These advancements aim to create faster, more versatile robots with improved autonomy and stealth capabilities.
SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalJournal of Biomechanical Engineering·DateOct 9, 2019
Aric Rogers' research on cellular and molecular mechanisms governing aging aims to develop new therapies for sarcopenia and age-related diseases. The grant will support further research on the genetic pathways that regulate dietary restriction, which has shown to extend healthy lifespan in various organisms.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have shown that Aliskiren, a FDA-approved drug, can delay the progression of congestive heart failure and lengthen survival rates in properly identified patients. The study used non-invasive technology to evaluate changes in muscle mass and fluid retention over time.
SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateOct 8, 2019
A Penn Medicine study shows delivering a 'distant cousin' of a key protein prevents muscle damage and maintains muscle function in both small and large animal models. The synthetic substitute, utrophin, proved to be an effective and safe alternative to dystrophin, with significant implications for gene therapy.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 7, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers at the German Sport University explored the effects of full-body exergaming in VR on cardiovascular system and strength endurance. Results showed that VR-based training had little to no cardiovascular benefit but created incentives for increased physical activity, motivating users to take up exercise.
SourceGerman Sport University·JournalJMIR Serious Games·DateOct 7, 2019
A team of evolutionary biologists discovered that atavistic limb muscles, lost in adult humans, are formed during early human development and then disappear. These muscles are present in many limbed animals but are absent in adults. The study uses high-quality 3D images to analyze the development of human arm and leg muscles.
SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateOct 1, 2019
Researchers found that protein GAS1 suppresses muscle stem cells' ability to build new muscles and regenerate after injury. Reversing GAS1's effect by using GDNF restores muscle stem cell function and regeneration.
SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Metabolism·DateSep 30, 2019
Researchers at the University of Alberta are developing a new treatment that could help almost half of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy by restoring dystrophin protein production. The experimental cocktail of DNA-like molecules has shown dramatic regrowth of dystrophin, which acts as a support beam to keep muscles strong.
SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 25, 2019
A recent study has identified FHL1 protein as a crucial cellular factor for the replication and pathogenesis of chikungunya virus. The researchers found that FHL1 interacts with viral protein nsP3 to facilitate viral infection, making it a promising target for antiviral development.
SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature·DateSep 25, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
Researchers identified differences in gut microbiome composition between physically high-functioning and low-functioning older adults. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a role in maintaining muscle strength in older adults, with mice colonized with fecal samples from high-functioning individuals showing increased grip st...
SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·DateSep 17, 2019
Researchers have successfully corrected the genetic mutation responsible for Duchenne muscular dystrophy using CRISPR gene editing in muscle stem cells. The edited cells regenerated and produced dystrophin, suggesting a potential method for lifelong correction of the disorder.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateSep 17, 2019
A randomized clinical trial found that combining behavioral and physical therapy before and after midurethral sling surgery improved symptoms of mixed urinary incontinence. However, the small difference may not be clinically significant due to a lack of established thresholds for minimal clinically important differences.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed soft robotic devices driven by neuromuscular tissue stimulated by light, enabling biobots to swim and walk autonomously. The new generation of two-tailed bots uses skeletal muscle tissue and optogenetic neurons for propulsion.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2019
A new study reveals that bat wing muscles are uniquely adapted to operate at low temperatures during flight, a phenomenon with implications for human exercise in extreme conditions. By understanding this adaptation, scientists hope to develop strategies to improve human performance and safety in cold weather.
SourceBrown University·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 11, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers discovered a sensorimotor function integration mechanism in expert pianists that enables skillful fingering. This neuroplastic adaptation enhances speed and precision of finger movements, revealing new insights into the brain's role in motor control.
SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateSep 11, 2019
Research found that mice with gut microbes had stronger skeletal muscles and improved energy production compared to germ-free mice. Transplanting gut microbes partially restored muscle function in germline mice, opening new avenues for interventions targeting age-related skeletal muscle loss.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 9, 2019
A study by the University of Granada recommends spending more time standing to increase energy expenditure and reduce negative health effects of a sedentary lifestyle. Standing burns approximately 45 kilocalories more per six-hour period than sitting or lying down, making it an effective way to combat excess weight and obesity.
SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 6, 2019
Researchers found that European whitefish muscle omega-3 fatty acid concentration declined by 60% from growing to spawning seasons. Local people traditionally fish for winter supplies during the main growing season when nutritional quality is optimal, reflecting an understanding of the fish's energy-demanding spawning process.
SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateSep 4, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers found that older men who never exercised before could build muscle at a similar rate as master athletes, highlighting the benefits of starting exercise later in life. The study suggests that regular physical activity can help delay age-related decline and improve overall health.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateAug 30, 2019
Biofeedback has shown promise as a treatment for various conditions, including headache pain reduction, improved urinary and fecal incontinence, and aid in stroke recovery. The review highlights the benefits of biofeedback for several conditions, while also identifying areas where further research is needed.
SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 27, 2019
Research suggests that statins cause spontaneous calcium leaks in muscle cells, leading to pain and weakness in susceptible individuals. Moderate exercise may prevent this leak and mitigate symptoms, according to the study.
Researchers from KAIST have created an ultrathin artificial muscle that expands, contracts, and rotates using electricity, opening doors for applications in wearable electronics and advanced prosthetics. The actuator is flexible, durable, and highly responsive, with a durability of over five hours.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Robotics·DateAug 21, 2019
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A novel robotic neck brace has been developed to assist ALS patients in holding their heads and supporting range of motion. The device incorporates sensors and actuators to restore approximately 70% of the active range of motion, allowing for improved eye contact and computer control.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateAug 12, 2019
A new study suggests that oral appliances can be an effective alternative to CPAP for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. Patients with mild collapsibility and weaker reflex responses tend to benefit more from oral appliances, which move the lower jaw forward to prevent airflow obstruction.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateAug 9, 2019
Focusing on movement during weightlifting may improve performance by reducing mechanical inefficiency and increasing automatic control processes. This contradicts the traditional mind-muscle connection theory, which suggests focusing on individual muscles enhances activation and development.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·DateAug 9, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Scientists discovered a protein called LIN-53 that controls muscle integrity, lifespan and levels of an essential sugar. The protein is an epigenetic factor that affects gene expression and heritable traits.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalAging Cell·DateAug 9, 2019
A study of individuals over 65 years old found that low appendicular muscle mass significantly increased all-cause mortality risk nearly 63-fold in women and 11.4-fold in men. The researchers used DXA body composition analysis to determine the correlation between body composition factors and mortality risk.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 31, 2019
Research found that strength training reduces endurance muscle fiber number by producing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which remodels neuromuscular synapses. This results in a decline in endurance muscles and an increase in strength muscles.
SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 25, 2019
A new position statement suggests resistance training is crucial for improving the health and longevity of older adults. It provides evidence-based recommendations for successful resistance training programs, highlighting practical applications and functional benefits.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·DateJul 25, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
In a study published in Scientific Reports, researchers found that changing gravity levels altered the bone mass of mice's forefoot and boosted their leg muscles. The findings suggest new avenues for developing treatments for skeletal diseases like osteoporosis and sarcopenia.
SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 25, 2019
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the activation of mTORC1 must be tightly balanced to maintain the neuromuscular junction after nerve injury. This balance is crucial for proper muscle response and preventing age-related muscle atrophy.
SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 25, 2019
The University of Alabama at Birmingham will organize and implement an international, multi-site study to learn more about AFM incidence and progression. The study aims to better understand how the disease develops in children and identify potential risk factors.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 23, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers at UMN Medical School found that estrogen deficiency leads to a 30-60% drop in muscle stem cells and severe difficulty reproducing new muscle after injury. Estrogen replacement therapy may help maintain muscle health, but risks cancer due to its effects on tissues.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 18, 2019
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that resveratrol supplementation preserved muscle function and mitigated muscle atrophy under Martian gravity. The study suggests that resveratrol could be a key dietary supplement to maintain musculoskeletal health on long-term Mars missions.
SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 18, 2019
A Harvard study suggests that resveratrol can preserve muscle mass and strength in rats exposed to simulated Mars gravity, with almost complete rescue of front and rear paw grip. The compound's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may help conserve muscle and bone in astronauts on long missions to Mars.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 18, 2019
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
Researchers have discovered how a fungus controls zombie ants by invading their mandibular muscles, breaking open membrane covering muscle fibres and causing the muscle to contract forcefully, resulting in the ant's death grip.
SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJul 17, 2019
Researchers have developed a new type of artificial muscle called sheath-run artificial muscles (SRAMs), which use a polymer coating to twist yarns and create powerful contraction. SRAMs outperform human muscle power density, with some yarns producing contractile powers up to 40 times that of human muscle.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScience·DateJul 11, 2019
Researchers developed new fiber-based designs for artificial muscles that can be activated by heat, electricity, and chemistry, offering potential uses in miniaturized medical devices and smart textiles. The resulting materials show impressive contractile powers, including 40 times that of human muscle.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 11, 2019
A small study suggests that treating pelvic floor muscle spasm with botulinum toxin may relieve pain and improve quality of life in women with endometriosis. The treatment showed long-lasting benefits, with many patients reporting pain relief lasting at least six months.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalRegional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine·DateJul 11, 2019
The team of researchers from RIKEN BDR and Tokyo Denki University have developed a bio-MEMS that is driven by real muscle, which could be useful in surgical implants. The new study successfully demonstrates an on-chip muscle-driven valve that can open and close without any external power source.
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Researchers suggest that strengthening muscles, rather than losing fat, may be a better way to protect against weight-related health risks like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Muscle health is linked to metabolic function, insulin sensitivity, and glucose uptake, making it a potential indicator of overall health.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 9, 2019
A novel surgical technique connects functioning nerves with injured nerves to restore power in paralyzed muscles, enabling participants to perform everyday tasks independently. The study suggests that nerve transfers can achieve similar functional improvements to traditional tendon transfers, with the benefit of smaller incisions and s...
A study by the University of Exeter found that mycoprotein stimulates post-exercise muscle growth more effectively than milk protein. This breakthrough could have significant implications for those seeking to reduce their meat intake while maintaining optimal muscle mass.
Researchers found that combining aerobic exercise and resistance training preserves muscle mass in obese older adults. The study showed increased muscle protein synthesis and improved muscle quality compared to control groups.
SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 3, 2019
Researchers found a significant jump in medically unnecessary ambulance rides for minor injuries like abrasions and muscle sprains after the ACA expansion. In New York City, these dispatches increased by 37%, equivalent to 2,868 additional rides per year.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 28, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
A recent study published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle found that vitamin D signaling is crucial for maintaining normal muscle size and strength. Researchers discovered that mice lacking vitamin D receptors in their muscle cells had smaller muscles and reduced physical performance.
SourceWestmead Institute for Medical Research·DateJun 25, 2019
A KIST research team has successfully taught a robot to trap a dropped ball like a soccer player using surface electromyograms (sEMG) of muscles. The technology enables robots with flexible joints to mimic human movements, advancing the study of interactions between humans and robots.
SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateJun 20, 2019
Scientists at Linköping University have created artificial muscles that harness energy from glucose and oxygen, mimicking biological muscle movement. The innovation uses enzymes to convert chemical energy into electrical energy, enabling the creation of implantable and autonomous microrobots.
SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 19, 2019
Researchers found that dogs have developed a muscle above the eyes to intensively raise their inner eyebrow, making them appear larger and more infant-like. This movement, known as AU101, triggers a caregiving response in humans, potentially leading to enhanced social interaction.
SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
A new study from UTMB has identified biomarkers that predict individual susceptibility to muscle function decline and found effective exercise and hormone treatments to combat atrophy. The findings may allow scientists to personalize space medicine by designing specific programs for each astronaut before long-term missions.
SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 13, 2019
A recent study published in the FASEB Journal has found that inhibiting various stages of mitochondrial dysfunction can suppress muscle atrophy. Researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans worms to model human muscle diseases and showed that experimental drugs could prevent muscle decline caused by dysfunctional mitochondria.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 7, 2019
Researchers investigated mirror activity in healthy humans and found that amplitude grows with repetition, while latency decreases. This inverse relation may be linked to fatigue-induced inhibitory mechanisms failure.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalNeuroscience·DateJun 7, 2019
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
Research found that supplements for weight loss, muscle building, and energy were associated with nearly three times the risk of severe medical outcomes compared to vitamins. Reputable physicians do not recommend these products due to adulteration with prescription pharmaceuticals and other dangerous chemicals.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJun 5, 2019
Muscle gradually increases Annexin A2 expression in the absence of dysferlin, driving fatty deposits and promoting adipocyte formation from fibro/adipogenic precursors. Shutting down Annexin A2 or blocking FAP differentiation arrests disease progression.
SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2019
Researchers have identified a potential therapy for limb girdle muscular dystrophy using lithium to improve muscle size and strength in mice. The findings suggest that inhibiting the protein GSK3beta with lithium chloride can lead to significant improvements in mouse strength and muscle mass.
SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeurology Genetics·DateJun 3, 2019
Researchers at WashU Medicine have discovered a previously unknown autoimmune muscle disease causing sudden onset of debilitating muscle pain and weakness. The syndrome can be effectively treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, but accurate diagnosis is crucial to manage related symptoms.
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers discovered that V1 neurons in fish spinal cords inhibit slow muscle activity during high-speed swimming. This mechanism enables fast swimming by preventing disturbance from slow muscle activity.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 22, 2019
York University researchers have identified novel genes that play a crucial role in regulating muscle cell differentiation and growth. The study found that Smad7 and β-catenin proteins work together to control the pathway for normal gene expression, resulting in normal skeletal muscle cells.
SourceYork University·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateMay 22, 2019
Researchers found that coffee suppresses bacteria growth in the gut and increases muscle motility, regardless of caffeine content. This could lead to potential treatments for post-operative constipation and ileus.