Articles tagged with Muscles
Scientists discover that auricular muscles, which helped ancestors move ears for better hearing, react during effortful listening. The muscles' activity levels correlate with difficulty of task, providing potential measure of listening effort.
A recent study investigated hybrid diffuse optics to monitor changes in blood flow and oxygen levels noninvasively. The technology provided detailed insights into how oxygen is delivered and utilized in the body, suggesting improved outcomes for critically ill patients undergoing red blood cell transfusions.
A new research project funded by a $600,000 grant is exploring the mechanics behind episiotomies, with the goal of developing safer and more effective surgical practices. The study uses advanced experimental techniques and computational simulations to understand how incisions spread and potentially lead to tears.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cold-water immersion can reduce stress levels within 12 hours, improve sleep quality, and boost quality of life. However, these benefits may fade after three months. Cold showers also showed promise in reducing sickness absence and improving mood.
Researchers have identified muscle oxygen-binding proteins that enhance oxygen diffusion in multicellular organisms, circumventing anatomical limits. This breakthrough discovery has implications for improving fitness and function in yeast models of multicellularity.
A new algorithm proposes measuring quadriceps muscle mass for more accurate sarcopenia diagnosis, potentially leading to earlier detection and better treatment options. Ultrasound imaging is recommended as a cost-effective and practical solution for diagnosing sarcopenia in clinical settings.
Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and Imperial College London demonstrate the connection between hand movement patterns and motoneuron control patterns, enabling natural control of bionic limbs. The study reports successful testing of a soft prosthetic hand with individuals with physical impairments.
A new study from the Salk Institute has discovered that a protein called BCL6 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy muscle mass. Increasing BCL6 levels successfully reversed muscle losses in mice, suggesting that pairing GLP-1 medications with a BCL6-boosting drug could help counteract unwanted muscle loss.
Researchers found that consuming moderate amounts of curcumin can facilitate muscle recovery and alleviate pain following strenuous physical exercise. The study also confirmed curcumin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in the context of sports, with benefits including reduced muscle damage and inflammation.
A study published in Nature Metabolism found that four percent of Greenland's Inuit population has a gene variant that increases their risk of type 2 diabetes by tenfold. Exercise has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity in these individuals, suggesting it may be an effective way to reduce their risk of developing the disease.
A new meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology found that using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) while doing resistance training increases muscle mass and strength compared to resistance training alone. The analysis reviewed over a dozen studies and showed that longer training periods yielded bet...
A preclinical study suggests the experimental compound K884 can restore lost muscle function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients by strengthening muscle repair. The drug targets specific enzymes, allowing muscle stem cells to develop into functional tissue.
Silvia Blemker, a University of Virginia biomedical engineer, has been elected Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) for her work on muscle health. Her patented technology, Image-based Identification of Muscle Abnormalities, uses advanced imaging and analytics to provide detailed insights into muscle health.
A groundbreaking study reveals that macrophages within muscle spindles actively participate in motor control through fast neurotransmitter-mediated mechanisms. These immune cells help fine-tune muscle contractions, providing essential feedback to the nervous system and optimizing energy use during physical activity.
Researchers have identified a subset of brain cells in mice that act as the master regulators of urination, coordinating bladder contraction and relaxation. These estrogen receptor-expressing neurons (ESR1+) work as a reliable master switch to initiate or suspend bladder emptying with precise timing.
A wearable electrical nerve stimulation device has been shown to provide significant relief from long COVID symptoms such as pain and fatigue. Researchers found that the high-dose TENS group experienced notable improvements in pain relief and walking ability.
A new study by MIT engineers reveals that exercise can stimulate nerve growth, with neurons growing four times farther in the presence of myokines released during muscle contractions. Physical effects of exercise, such as repeated stretching and pulling, also promote nerve growth, challenging previous biochemical-only theories.
The new biosensor detects symmetric dimethylarginine in urine, providing a more accurate indicator of kidney health than creatinine. It can identify mild kidney impairment and offers a reliable alternative to blood tests, enabling timely interventions and potential long-term outcomes.
A new Australian study found that social media interactions are linked to muscle dysmorphia in young men, who experience small and weak bodies despite having a good physique. The study suggests that taking less notice of social media posts may help combat this issue, along with targeted mental health initiatives.
A 10-week break from resistance training had little effect on maximum strength but did affect muscle size. Maximum strength was better preserved than muscle size during the break. With regular progressive training, gym-goers can quickly regain pre-break levels of strength and muscle size.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have found that plasma irradiation can enhance tendon-to-bone junction repair, leading to faster healing rates and stronger repairs. The study used rabbit models to test the effects of plasma on rotator cuff injuries, showing promising results.
A Washington State University-led study found a strong link between dehydration and exercise-induced muscle cramps in IRONMAN triathletes. Severe dehydration was associated with an increased risk of muscle cramps, which were more common in athletes who finished the race faster.
A Mayo Clinic study found that standing on one leg shows the highest rate of decline with age, indicating balance as a crucial aging indicator. The research suggests people can train their balance without special equipment to maintain independence and well-being.
A new study from UAMS reveals that 100% ground beef is more effective at building muscle than a soy-based alternative, requiring double the amount of protein to achieve the same results. The study found that just one serving of beef provided the necessary muscle-building benefits, while two servings of the soy-based product were needed.
A new study found that initial prescriptions of benzodiazepines for older stroke survivors often include excessive doses, posing a risk of dependence, falls, and other harmful effects. Guidelines recommend avoiding benzodiazepine prescriptions if possible, but some cases may require limited use under close monitoring.
Research has shown that people with hip osteoarthritis are unable to activate their muscles as efficiently due to the brain's inhibitory response. Dr. Myles Murphy and his team investigated muscle function in patients with hip osteoarthritis, finding a strong correlation between muscle activation and joint degeneration.
Researchers have discovered that comb jelly species can fuse after injury, rapidly synchronizing their muscle contractions and merging digestive tracts to share food. This process allows the fused individual to survive for at least three weeks.
Researchers developed an AI-driven approach to model complex hand movements, overcoming current limitations in neuroscience and biomedical engineering. The model achieved a 100% success rate in controlling virtual Baoding balls, showcasing its strength in various challenging situations.
Researchers found lamotrigine to reduce stiffness in non-dystrophic myotonias by around the same amount as mexiletine, offering a new treatment option. The trial results have direct implications for patient care and provide more 'real-world' options for patients with this life-changing muscle disorder.
Researchers found that maintaining optimal levels of DEAF1 is crucial for muscle repair and regeneration, and that restoring balance with DEAF1 may counteract some effects of aging on muscle tissue. This could lead to improved treatments for sarcopenia and cachexia, conditions affecting millions of older adults and cancer patients.
A University of Kansas researcher has found that single leg backward hopping can accurately measure knee strength and recovery in patients after ACL reconstruction. This method shows significant changes in knee mechanics compared to forward hopping, making it a potentially superior indicator of quadriceps strength deficiency.
Researchers at Umeå University found that muscles sense mechanical pressure, challenging current understanding of proprioception. The 'triple-eight' technique involves applying low pressure and releasing it to relieve muscle stiffness.
A new robotic leg powered by artificial muscles can walk, jump, and detect obstacles without complex sensors. Its ability to lift its own weight explosively enables high jumps and fast movements.
Researchers found that sustained neck exertions alter the cervical spine's curvature, leading to muscle fatigue and increased risk of neck pain. The study provides new insights into the mechanical changes that occur in the spine and muscles when performing repetitive tasks.
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that general exercise programs can reduce urinary incontinence symptoms almost as much as pelvic floor yoga. The LILA study involved 240 women who experienced urinary incontinence at least daily, and randomly assigned them to either a pelvic yoga program or a physical condit...
Researchers at Technical University of Denmark developed a new biopolymer, PAMA, derived from bacteria to heal tissue. The PAMA bactogel shows significant muscle regeneration properties and nearly 100% mechanical recovery in rats.
A study at UFSCar found that remote testing can be reliable for functional mobility and muscle strength, especially for those with dementia. This new methodology enables more frequent health sessions and better patient tracking.
CNIO researchers have discovered a 'switch' for the desire to engage in physical activity, revealing a muscle-brain pathway that controls eagerness to train more when we exercise. Two proteins, p38α and p38γ, get activated in the muscle during exercise, influencing interest in physical activity.
Researchers have identified a metal deficiency in SOD1 protein associated with motor neurone disease using native ambient mass spectrometry imaging. This breakthrough could lead to new insights and treatments for the disease, which affects around 5,000 people in the UK.
Researchers discovered ultrastructural abnormalities in obese patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which may be related to the impact of obesity on muscle structure. The study suggests that reducing obesity and using certain medications could help improve HFpEF outcomes.
Researchers from Doshisha University found that high-frequency eccentric-only resistance training at long muscle lengths can chronically decrease passive muscle stiffness. This novel training modality increases muscle strength and size while providing crucial insights into adaptive plasticity.
Research from Florida Atlantic University reveals that training closer to failure can boost muscle growth, while having no clear impact on strength gains. The study analyzed data from 55 studies and suggests that individuals who aim to build muscle should work within a desired range of 0-5 reps short of failure.
A study found that space-traveling muscles have impaired regeneration and gene activities associated with sarcopenia. Drug treatment partially prevented the negative effects of microgravity on muscles, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for astronauts and older adults.
A study published in Neurology found that people with high levels of body fat stored in their belly or arms may be more likely to develop Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases than those with low levels. Those with high muscle strength were also less likely to develop these diseases.
Researchers assessed botulinumtoxin-A treatment to improve walking capacity in children with cerebral palsy. The trial found some evidence of reduced calf pain and delayed improvement in energy cost, but no significant benefit for overall walking ease.
A new study from University of Florida researchers found that quick learners rely on the visual cortex in their brains when acquiring new motor skills. The study used brain-monitoring electrodes to analyze how people learn to walk at different speeds, revealing a clear difference between fast and slow learners.
Researchers at UW Medicine have developed a new gene therapy that delivers protein packets to replace defective genes in muscles, halting disease progression and reversing pathology. The therapy uses adeno-associated viral vectors and aims to restore normal muscle health, with human trials expected to begin in two years.
Sub-elite female Australian football players experience different injury patterns compared to males, highlighting the need for targeted training and injury prevention strategies. Ankle sprains, concussions, and anterior cruciate ligament injuries are the most common and burdensome, resulting in the most missed matches.
A new study found that low energy availability among female athletes impairs performance by up to 18% in short-term tests and increases systemic stress, compromising immune function. Athletes who restrict their food intake experience muscle loss and decreased physical performance.
The University of Toronto has introduced comprehensive guidelines for healthcare professionals to address muscle-building supplement use among adolescents and young adults. These guidelines focus on assessment and harm reduction strategies to better support young individuals engaged in the use of these supplements. Healthcare professio...
A new surgical procedure reconnects muscles in the residual limb, allowing patients to receive proprioceptive feedback about their prosthetic limb's position. Seven patients who underwent this surgery were able to walk faster, avoid obstacles, and climb stairs more naturally than those with traditional amputations.
Researchers found a correlation between high homocysteine levels and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. The study suggests that measuring homocysteine could help clinicians predict the risk of developing severe apnea, enabling early intervention and prevention.
Patients in sunny climates may require higher doses of Botox to achieve good results in cosmetic treatment. The study found a significant difference in total Botox dose needed between high-sun and low-sun groups, with patients in Malta needing more Botox due to greater muscle activation and potential effects of sunlight.
A groundbreaking study discovered optimal Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) settings to prevent muscle fatigue and enhance recovery. The research, published in the Cyborg Bionic Systems journal, highlights the crucial relationship between current amplitude and stimulation time.
Researchers create detailed wiring diagram of motor circuits in fruit flies, revealing complex nerve coordination for leg and wing movements. The study advances understanding of how the central nervous system coordinates individual muscles for various behaviors.
A clinical trial found that heavy resistance training for 12 months preserved leg strength in older adults, while moderate intensity training and comparison groups experienced declines. The study suggests that resistance training with heavy loads at retirement age can have long-term effects on muscle strength.
A new study led by UCSF found that COVID-19 vaccine side effects like headache and tiredness indicate a strong immune response. Those with more symptoms had nearly double the antibody levels of those without, suggesting the vaccine is effective in preventing infection.
A new study at the University of Toronto reveals a significant association between photo filter use and increased symptoms of muscle dysmorphia among adolescents and young adults. The research found that frequent use of photo filters is linked to greater muscle dissatisfaction and overall muscle dysmorphia symptoms, particularly among ...
A recent study from the University of Toronto analyzed data from 912 participants aged 16-30 and found that nearly 60% used protein bars and over half used whey protein powders. The study highlights alarming symptoms, including fatigue, digestive issues, and cardiovascular problems, with only 9.8% perceiving their use as problematic.
A study found that men who stopped using illicit steroids within the past year experienced lower sexual function scores, depression, and anxiety compared to those currently using steroids. Having a psychiatric diagnosis and lower testosterone levels were associated with greater impairment in these areas.