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Blood test can help predict risk of obstructive sleep apnea

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.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEuropean Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology·DateJul 1, 2024

Climate affects dose requirements for cosmetic Botox injections

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.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJul 1, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

From takeoff to flight, the wiring of a fly's nervous system is mapped

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.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

Heavy resistance training around retirement preserves vital leg strength years later

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.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 18, 2024

Feeling rough after your COVID shot? Congrats, it’s working!

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New study highlights risks of muscle-building supplement use among adolescents and young adults

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.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPerformance Enhancement & Health·DateJun 3, 2024

New study further illuminates ability of cancer drug to lower blood sugar

A new study reveals that a cancer drug can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels, but eliminating a specific gene related to fat metabolism worsens insulin resistance. The research highlights the interconnectedness of fat metabolism in organs and the need for simultaneous treatment of obesity and insulin sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2024

MIT scientists learn how to control muscles with light

Researchers use light instead of electricity to stimulate muscle contraction, achieving more precise control and reduced fatigue in a study using mice. The optogenetic method could have broad clinical utility for people with paralysis or amputation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·DateMay 22, 2024

Aerobic exercise performed in the evening benefits elderly hypertensives more than morning exercise

A study of 23 elderly patients with hypertension found that evening aerobic exercise improved baroreflex sensitivity, a mechanism that regulates blood pressure. This improvement led to better blood pressure regulation and reduced muscle sympathetic nerve activity, making evening exercise more effective than morning exercise.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 17, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Listening to muscles

Researchers have developed a non-invasive optical-acoustic imaging method using short laser pulses to create images of muscle tissue. This breakthrough technology has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic disorder causing muscle degeneration.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalMed·DateMay 16, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Inherited predisposition for higher muscle strength may protect against common morbidities

A large-scale study found that individuals with a genetic predisposition for higher muscle strength have a slightly lower risk for common noncommunicable diseases and premature mortality. This is attributed to their intrinsic ability to resist pathological changes during aging, rather than recovery from acute adversity.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·DateApr 12, 2024

Weight training improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in old people, study confirms

A study published in Psychiatry Research confirms that weight training improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in old people. The analysis of over 200 articles identified the types of training most indicated for these cases, recommending exercises done three times a week with short sets and proper structure.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateApr 10, 2024

Toothed whale echolocation organs evolved from jaw muscles

New research at Hokkaido University reveals that acoustic fat bodies in toothed whales were once jaw muscles and bone marrow. The findings suggest an evolutionary tradeoff between auditory and feeding ecology, leading to the loss of chewing muscles and adaptation to echolocation.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalGene·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024
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.

Fontan circulation link to changes in the genetic code may lead to new treatment for heart conditions

Researchers found a link between Fontan circulation and accelerated epigenetic aging, which can cause complications like osteoporosis and renal impairment. The study suggests this acceleration starts in childhood and continues into adulthood, with potential new treatment opportunities to delay progression.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJACC Advances·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2024

Post-COVID not necessarily a barrier to exercise

Researchers from Karolinska Institutet show that post-COVID does not mean strict exercise avoidance. Patients with post-COVID can benefit from supervised exercise, with improved fitness and muscle strength found in those who participated.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 4, 2024

Blended antioxidant supplement improves cognition and memory in aged mice

A blended antioxidant supplement improved spatial learning ability and short-term memory in supplement-treated aged mice. The discovery suggests that the supplements may also prevent age-related cognitive decline in humans and mitigate muscle frailty.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024
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 surgical technique enables smiling in patients with facial paralysis

A new study presents a novel surgical technique for treating Moebius syndrome, a rare condition that prevents smiling and affects social engagement. The technique involves utilizing the ipsilateral facial nerve to power gracilis free functional muscle transfer in select patients with residual facial nerve activity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalFacial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 27, 2024

Natural molecule found in coffee and human body increases NAD+ levels, improves muscle function during ageing

A recent discovery reveals that the natural molecule trigonelline can increase NAD+ levels and improve muscle function during ageing. Lower levels of trigonelline were found in older people with sarcopenia, a condition where muscles weaken and mass is lost.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 21, 2024

How the brain senses body position and movement

Researchers discovered that brains prioritize integrating muscle spindle input to understand body movement and position. Task-driven neural network models were found to be most effective in predicting limb position and velocity.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell·DateMar 21, 2024

Study: Pill makes patients with life-threatening muscle weakness stronger

Researchers discovered a new treatment that strengthens muscles in patients with Myasthenia Gravis, an autoimmune disease leading to severe weakness and fatigue. The breakthrough, targeting the connection between nerves and muscle cells, shows promising results without significant side effects.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 21, 2024
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.

Sleep apnea solution could be right under your nose

Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a bedtime nasal spray that can reduce the severity of sleep apnea in people and lower their blood pressure. The study found that the spray, which blocks potassium channels, improved oxygen levels and reduced markers of OSA severity in 7 out of 10 participants.

SourceFlinders University·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 15, 2024

UC Irvine receives $15 million NSF grant for integrative movement research

The University of California, Irvine will lead a six-year, $15 million NSF-funded research project to study muscle control during rapid movements. The Integrative Movement Sciences Institute aims to bridge gaps between fields and advance understanding of agile movement through interdisciplinary collaboration.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMar 4, 2024

Sedentary behavior increases mortality risk

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that older women who sat for 11.7 hours or more per day increased their risk of death by 30 percent. The study used machine-learned algorithm CHAP to examine total sitting time and length of sitting bouts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 28, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

World’s first real-time wearable human emotion recognition technology developed!

A groundbreaking technology recognizes human emotions in real time, combining verbal and non-verbal expression data for accurate emotional information extraction. The system features a personalized skin-integrated facial interface that enables self-powered, flexible, and transparent emotion recognition.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2024

With regular exercise, medical weight loss treatment does not have to be permanent

A new study published in LANCET eClinicalMedicine found that regular exercise can help individuals maintain weight loss after completing medical weight loss treatment. The study showed that exercising just two hours a week can lead to better quality of life, improved mental health, and reduced fatigue.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateFeb 20, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Engineers unveil new patch that can help people control robotic exoskeletons

Researchers have developed a wearable patch that can detect and respond to human muscle signals, allowing people to control robotic exoskeletons more efficiently. The patch, called SNAP, uses microneedles to pick up tiny signals from muscles and sends them to outside equipment for processing.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2024

Shuffling robot uses biological muscle to move and spin

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a two-legged biohybrid robot capable of walking and pivoting underwater. The robot uses lab-grown skeletal muscle tissue to move its legs, achieving efficient and silent movements. Future iterations aim to develop thicker muscles with nutrient supplies to enable robots to walk on land.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Pusan National University's breakthrough in muscle regeneration: Nanotech scaffolding supports tissue growth

Researchers develop nanofibrous matrices containing MXene nanoparticles to aid in muscle regeneration. The study reveals molecular mechanisms behind the effects of MXene nanoparticles on muscle growth, suggesting a promising avenue for treating volumetric muscle loss and muscle-related ailments.

SourcePusan National University·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

New model predicts how shoe properties affect a runner’s performance

A new model developed by MIT engineers predicts how certain shoe properties will affect a runner's performance, incorporating factors like stiffness and springiness. The model aims to help designers create high-performing shoes with novel properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Biomechanical Engineering·DateJan 24, 2024
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.

Decoding the neural key to how humans efficiently walk at varied speeds

A research group from Tohoku University Graduate School of Engineering has replicated human-like variable speed walking using a musculoskeletal model steered by a reflex control method reflective of the human nervous system. The breakthrough in biomechanics and robotics sets a new benchmark in understanding human movement.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 22, 2024

A noninvasive method for assessing muscular health in an aging population

A noninvasive method for assessing muscular health in an aging population has been developed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The study found that the phase angle can estimate muscle contractile properties and is associated with better muscle function, making it a valuable tool for monitoring muscular health.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2024

Sarcopenia - an emerging syndrome of advancing age

A new special issue of Calcified Tissue International & Musculoskeletal Research sheds light on sarcopenia's pathogenesis, clinical implications, and therapeutic targets. Researchers have made significant progress in evaluating, managing, and developing interventions for this condition.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalCalcified Tissue International·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 10, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Tiredness experienced by Long-COVID patients has a physical cause

A recent study published in Nature Communications found that Long-COVID patients experience fatigue due to reduced energy production by mitochondria in muscle cells. The research suggests a biological cause for the persistent exhaustion, opening up potential treatment avenues.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 4, 2024

Fitness with no age limit

The MU Extension program has proven results, showing improvements in physical energy, self-confidence, and muscle strength among participants. The program also reduces the risk of falling and provides social enjoyment for participants, who often form close relationships with instructors and each other.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 3, 2024

Calcium channel blockers key to reversing myotonic dystrophy muscle weakness, study finds

Researchers found that calcium channel blockers can reverse symptoms of myotonic dystrophy in animal models, a potential new treatment for the disease. The study suggests that targeting the calcium channel could improve muscle function and health, offering hope for patients with this debilitating condition.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 2, 2024

Study: Spinal cord injury causes acute and systemic muscle wasting

Researchers found that the severity of muscle wasting depends on the location of the spinal cord injury. They also discovered that hypercortisolism, a hormonal imbalance, worsens muscle loss and can be targeted to rescue muscle tissue.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How does the inability to burp affect daily life?

The inability to burp, known as retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R-CPD), significantly impacts daily life, causing symptoms like abdominal bloating, flatulence, and difficulty vomiting. Participants reported feeling embarrassed, anxious, and depressed due to R-CPD, highlighting the need for increased awareness and identification.

SourceWiley·JournalNeurogastroenterology & Motility·DateDec 20, 2023

A spinal muscle’s size and shape is linked to body fat, according to new Concordia research

A new study by Concordia researchers found a strong positive relationship between percentage body fat and echo intensity, indicating more fat within the muscle. The study also revealed differences in lumbar multifidus characteristics between male and female athletes, with females having larger LMs than males.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Musculoskeletal Disorders·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Daily singing workout keeps songbird males attractive

Male songbirds need daily singing to exercise their vocal muscles and produce attractive songs. Regular practice is necessary to maintain social bonds and attract females, which can also hear the difference in a male's voice after exercise.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Fascicle gearing dynamics: Unveiling 3D rotation effects in muscle elongation

Researchers at Waseda University used diffusion tensor imaging to reconstruct fascicles in three dimensions, finding that a gearing mechanism reduces individual fascicle elongation during stretching. This mechanism allows muscles to extend without significant fiber length changes, preventing overstretching and injury.

SourceWaseda University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023
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.

Wearable ultrasound monitor can aid rehabilitation from injury #Acoustics23

Researchers have developed a wearable ultrasound system that can provide clinically relevant information about muscle function during dynamic physical activity. The device uses a patented approach to transmit long-duration chirps, allowing for real-time analysis of muscle dynamics and aiding in the rehabilitation process.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2023

Adverse childhood experiences linked to muscle dysmorphia

A new study found that adverse childhood experiences are associated with greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms in Canadian adolescents and young adults. Adverse childhood experiences, such as domestic violence and emotional abuse, may lead to body dissatisfaction and the pursuit of muscularity as a coping mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalClinical Social Work Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2023

Common headaches tied to neck inflammation

Researchers identified a link between neck muscles and primary headaches, including tension-type headaches and migraines. Muscle T2 values were found to be significantly associated with headache frequency and neck pain.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2023
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.

A novel lightweight wearable device to perform balance exercises at home

Researchers developed a lightweight wearable balance exercise device to improve reactive postural control in older adults, reducing the risk of falls. The device uses pneumatic artificial muscles to generate unexpected perturbations, resulting in improved peak displacement and velocity.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalIEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Stronger thigh muscles may prevent knee replacement surgery

Researchers found that a higher ratio of quadriceps to hamstring muscle volume was significantly associated with lower odds of total knee replacement. Training programs that strengthen the quadriceps in relation to the hamstrings may be beneficial for preventing knee replacement surgery.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 27, 2023

1060 million people with ‘other’ musculoskeletal disorders by 2050

A new forecast projects 1060 million people worldwide will live with 'other' musculoskeletal disorders by 2050, increasing healthcare needs and pressures on stretched systems. Research found these conditions are reported higher in females, increase with age, and peak at 60-69 years.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 20, 2023