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Gamel KM, Pinti S, Astley HC. Design of A Highly Sensitive, Low-cost Underwater Force Plate to Record Substrate Reaction Forces. Integr Org Biol 2024; 6:obae008. [PMID: 38911183 PMCID: PMC11193385 DOI: 10.1093/iob/obae008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The study of underwater walking presents major challenges because the small forces applied during underwater walking are difficult to measure due to the lack of a sufficiently sensitive force plate that functions underwater. Understanding the force interaction between the underwater walker and the substrate may lead to better understanding of the evolution, ecology, and biomechanics of underwater walking. The shift from aquatic to terrestrial life was a crucial transition in animal evolution where, underwater walking preceded the invasion of land and combines mechanics from terrestrial locomotion (substrate reaction forces) and aquatic swimming (buoyancy and drag). In this work, we describe our design of a low-cost underwater force plate made using 3D printed multi axis load cells equipped with commercial strain gauges amplified with a custom circuit board, and custom code to gather force data. The use of 3D printed sensors allows customization of the material and thickness of the shear beam load cell to accommodate the loads for a wide range of study species. We show that our design can detect loads as small as 1 mN (filtered) with minimal noise and present sample live animal trials of several species. The 3D multiaxial load cells, circuit design, and custom code are open-source and available online.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Gamel
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport, 1176 Howell St., Newport, RI 002841, USA
| | - S Pinti
- Department of Biology at the University of Akron, 302 Buchtel Ave., Akron, OH 44325, US
| | - H C Astley
- Department of Biological Sciences Kent State University, 800 E. Summit St, Kent, OH, 44242, US
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2
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Young SAE, Rummler M, Taïeb HM, Garske DS, Ellinghaus A, Duda GN, Willie BM, Cipitria A. In vivo microCT-based time-lapse morphometry reveals anatomical site-specific differences in bone (re)modeling serving as baseline parameters to detect early pathological events. Bone 2022; 161:116432. [PMID: 35569733 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2022.116432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The bone structure is very dynamic and continuously adapts its geometry to external stimuli by modeling and remodeling the mineralized tissue. In vivo microCT-based time-lapse morphometry is a powerful tool to study the temporal and spatial dynamics of bone (re)modeling. Here an advancement in the methodology to detect and quantify site-specific differences in bone (re)modeling of 12-week-old BALB/c nude mice is presented. We describe our method of quantifying new bone surface interface readouts and how these are influenced by bone curvature. This method is then used to compare bone surface (re)modeling in mice across different anatomical regions to demonstrate variations in the rate of change and spatial gradients thereof. Significant differences in bone (re)modeling baseline parameters between the metaphyseal and epiphyseal, as well as cortical and trabecular bone of the distal femur and proximal tibia are shown. These results are validated using conventional static in vivo microCT analysis. Finally, the insights from these new baseline values of physiological bone (re)modeling were used to evaluate pathological bone (re)modeling in a pilot breast cancer bone metastasis model. The method shows the potential to be suitable to detect early pathological events and track their spatio-temporal development in both cortical and trabecular bone. This advancement in (re)modeling surface analysis and defined baseline parameters according to distinct anatomical regions will be valuable to others investigating various disease models with site-distinct local alterations in bone (re)modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A E Young
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Maximilian Rummler
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany; Research Centre, Shriners Hospital for Children-Canada, Montreal, Canada; Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Hubert M Taïeb
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Daniela S Garske
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Agnes Ellinghaus
- Julius Wolff Institute & Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin Institute of Health and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Georg N Duda
- Julius Wolff Institute & Berlin Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin Institute of Health and Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bettina M Willie
- Research Centre, Shriners Hospital for Children-Canada, Montreal, Canada; Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Amaia Cipitria
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany; Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Group of Bioengineering in Regeneration and Cancer, San Sebastian, Spain; IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.
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3
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Löffler L, Wölfer J, Gavrilei F, Nyakatura JA. Computational Modeling of Gluteus Medius Muscle Moment Arm in Caviomorph Rodents Reveals Ecomorphological Specializations. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:806314. [PMID: 35694234 PMCID: PMC9174681 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.806314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vertebrate musculoskeletal locomotion is realized through lever-arm systems. The instantaneous muscle moment arm (IMMA), which is expected to be under selective pressure and thus of interest for ecomorphological studies, is a key aspect of these systems. The IMMA changes with joint motion. It’s length change is technically difficult to acquire and has not been compared in a larger phylogenetic ecomorphological framework, yet. Usually, proxies such as osteological in-levers are used instead. We used 18 species of the ecologically diverse clade of caviomorph rodents to test whether its diversity is reflected in the IMMA of the hip extensor M. gluteus medius. A large IMMA is beneficial for torque generation; a small IMMA facilitates fast joint excursion. We expected large IMMAs in scansorial species, small IMMAs in fossorial species, and somewhat intermediate IMMAs in cursorial species, depending on the relative importance of acceleration and joint angular velocity. We modeled the IMMA over the entire range of possible hip extensions and applied macroevolutionary model comparison to selected joint poses. We also obtained the osteological in-lever of the M. gluteus medius to compare it to the IMMA. At little hip extension, the IMMA was largest on average in scansorial species, while the other two lifestyles were similar. We interpret this as an emphasized need for increased hip joint torque when climbing on inclines, especially in a crouched posture. Cursorial species might benefit from fast joint excursion, but their similarity with the fossorial species is difficult to interpret and could hint at ecological similarities. At larger extension angles, cursorial species displayed the second-largest IMMAs after scansorial species. The larger IMMA optimum results in powerful hip extension which coincides with forward acceleration at late stance beneficial for climbing, jumping, and escaping predators. This might be less relevant for a fossorial lifestyle. The results of the in-lever only matched the IMMA results of larger hip extension angles, suggesting that the modeling of the IMMA provides more nuanced insights into adaptations of musculoskeletal lever-arm systems than this osteological proxy.
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4
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Iijima M, Munteanu VD, Elsey RM, Blob RW. Ontogenetic changes in limb posture, kinematics, forces and joint moments in American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis). J Exp Biol 2021; 224:273379. [PMID: 34746961 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.242990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
As animals increase in size, common patterns of morphological and physiological scaling may require them to perform behaviors such as locomotion while experiencing a reduced capacity to generate muscle force and an increased risk of tissue failure. Large mammals are known to manage increased mechanical demands by using more upright limb posture. However, the presence of such size-dependent changes in limb posture has rarely been tested in animals that use non-parasagittal limb kinematics. Here, we used juvenile to subadult American alligators (total length 0.46-1.27 m, body mass 0.3-5.6 kg) and examined their limb kinematics, forces, joint moments and center of mass (CoM) to test for ontogenetic shifts in posture and limb mechanics. Larger alligators typically walked with a more adducted humerus and femur and a more extended knee. Normalized peak joint moments reflected these postural patterns, with shoulder and hip moments imposed by the ground reaction force showing relatively greater magnitudes in the smallest individuals. Thus, as larger alligators use more upright posture, they incur relatively smaller joint moments than smaller alligators, which could reduce the forces that the shoulder and hip adductors of larger alligators must generate. The CoM shifted nonlinearly from juveniles through subadults. The more anteriorly positioned CoM in small alligators, together with their compliant hindlimbs, contributes to their higher forelimb and lower hindlimb normalized peak vertical forces in comparison to larger alligators. Future studies of alligators that approach maximal adult sizes could give further insight into how animals with non-parasagittal limb posture modulate locomotor patterns as they increase in mass and experience changes in the CoM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaya Iijima
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA.,Nagoya University Museum, Furocho, Chikusa-Ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
| | - V David Munteanu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Ruth M Elsey
- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge, 5476 Grand Chenier Highway, Grand Chenier, LA 70643, USA
| | - Richard W Blob
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
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5
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Kawasaki Y, Ogawa A, Takahashi H. Force Plate with Simple Mechanical Springs and Separated Noncontact Sensor Elements. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21217092. [PMID: 34770412 PMCID: PMC8587203 DOI: 10.3390/s21217092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports on a force plate (FP) using mechanical springs and noncontact distance sensors. The ground reaction force (GRF) is one of the factors for clarify biomechanics, and FPs are widely used to measure it. The sensor elements of conventional FPs are mainly strain gauges. Thus, the mechanical properties of FP depend on the sensor element performance. If the FP performance must change, we must redesign the FP, including changing the sensor elements. Here, we proposed an FP that uses a measuring principle based on simple springs and noncontact sensors. The shape and performance of the proposed FP are expected to change easily. As a prototype device, we designed and fabricated an FP installed with 12 springs and four sensors for human walking. A planar coil and magnet were used as the sensor elements, and the sensor output was proportional to the vertical and horizontal displacements. The FP resonance frequency was 123 Hz, which was larger than the required specification. The calibration experiments showed that vertical and horizontal forces and moments could be measured independently. The FP’s resolutions were 1.9 N and 1.4 N in the anterior–posterior and vertical directions, respectively. Furthermore, the fabricated FP measured GRF similarly to the commercial FP when a human walked on the plate. These results suggest that the proposed method will be helpful for FPs with custom-made requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Kawasaki
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama 223-8522, Kanagawa, Japan;
| | - Ami Ogawa
- Department of System Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama 223-8522, Kanagawa, Japan;
| | - Hidetoshi Takahashi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama 223-8522, Kanagawa, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-45-566-1847
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6
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Usherwood JR, Granatosky MC. Limb work and joint work minimization reveal an energetic benefit to the elbows-back, knees-forward limb design in parasagittal quadrupeds. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20201517. [PMID: 33290670 PMCID: PMC7739919 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Quadrupedal animal locomotion is energetically costly. We explore two forms of mechanical work that may be relevant in imposing these physiological demands. Limb work, due to the forces and velocities between the stance foot and the centre of mass, could theoretically be zero given vertical limb forces and horizontal centre of mass path. To prevent pitching, skewed vertical force profiles would then be required, with forelimb forces high in late stance and hindlimb forces high in early stance. By contrast, joint work-the positive mechanical work performed by the limb joints-would be reduced with forces directed through the hip or shoulder joints. Measured quadruped kinetics show features consistent with compromised reduction of both forms of work, suggesting some degree of, but not perfect, inter-joint energy transfer. The elbows-back, knees-forward design reduces the joint work demand of a low limb-work, skewed, vertical force profile. This geometry allows periods of high force to be supported when the distal segment is near vertical, imposing low moments about the elbow or knee, while the shoulder or hip avoids high joint power despite high moments because the proximal segment barely rotates-translation over this period is due to rotation of the distal segment.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. Usherwood
- Structure and Motion Lab., The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Michael C. Granatosky
- Department of Anatomy, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, New York, NY 11568, USA
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7
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Sahrom S, Wilkie JC, Nosaka K, Blazevich AJ. Comparison of methods of derivation of the yank-time signal from the vertical ground reaction force-time signal for identification of movement-related events. J Biomech 2020; 115:110048. [PMID: 33272585 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Temporal changes in ground reaction force magnitudes reflect movement strategy, and thus underlying muscle activation patterns, during movement tasks. Speculatively, these changes may be observed more readily when the force-time signal is differentiated, yielding the yank-time signal. However, the differentiation process, including the signal filtering used before or after differentiation, can significantly affect the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and likelihood of meaningful inference. The aim of the present study was to compare three methods of deriving the yank-time signal: Method 1 derived the yank-time signal using 2nd-order central differentiation subsequent to application of a 4th-order Butterworth filter; Method 2 included the same process as Method 1 but additionally filtered the yank-time data with a Savitzky-Golay smoothing filter; and Method 3 directly and simultaneously derived and smoothed the yank-time signal using a Savitzky-Golay digital differentiation filter. The current analyses revealed Method 2 had the best SNR, followed by Methods 3 and 1, but caused a small loss of signal amplitude. With regards to timing of inflection points in the yank-time data, no significant difference was observed. Therefore, Method 3 led to the best derivation of the yank-time signal due to its efficiency and preservation of signal characteristics and good SNR. Also, a strong association between the first maximum point of the yank-time signal and the start of the downward movement of the body's centre of mass during a countermovement jump, as identified by 3-D motion analysis, was observed. Thus, subtle events (e.g. start of downward movement) can be easily observed in the yank-time signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofyan Sahrom
- Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research (CESSR), School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia.
| | - Jodie Cochrane Wilkie
- Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research (CESSR), School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
| | - Kazunori Nosaka
- Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research (CESSR), School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
| | - Anthony J Blazevich
- Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research (CESSR), School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
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8
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Senger JLB, Rabey KN, Morhart MJ, Chan KM, Webber CA. Conditioning Electrical Stimulation Accelerates Regeneration in Nerve Transfers. Ann Neurol 2020; 88:363-374. [PMID: 32447758 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Compared to the upper limb, lower limb distal nerve transfer (DNT) outcomes are poor, likely due to the longer length of regeneration required. DNT surgery to treat foot drop entails rerouting a tibial nerve branch to the denervated common fibular nerve stump to reinnervate the tibialis anterior muscle for ankle dorsiflexion. Conditioning electrical stimulation (CES) prior to nerve repair surgery accelerates nerve regeneration and promotes sensorimotor recovery. We hypothesize that CES prior to DNT will promote nerve regeneration to restore ankle dorsiflexion. METHODS One week following common fibular nerve crush, CES was delivered to the tibial nerve in half the animals, and at 2 weeks, all animals received a DNT. To investigate the effects of CES on nerve regeneration, a series of kinetic, kinematic, skilled locomotion, electrophysiologic, and immunohistochemical outcomes were assessed. The effects of CES on the nerve were investigated. RESULTS CES-treated animals had significantly accelerated nerve regeneration (p < 0.001), increased walking speed, and improved skilled locomotion. The injured limb had greater vertical peak forces, with improved duty factor, near-complete recovery of braking, propulsive forces, and dorsiflexion (p < 0.01). Reinnervation of the tibialis anterior muscle was confirmed with nerve conduction studies and immunohistochemical analysis of the neuromuscular junction. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that CES does not induce Wallerian degeneration, nor does it cause macrophage infiltration of the distal tibial nerve. INTERPRETATION Tibial nerve CES prior to DNT significantly improved functional recovery of the common fibular nerve and its muscle targets without inducing injury to the donor nerve. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:363-374.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna-Lynn B Senger
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Karyne N Rabey
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michael J Morhart
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - K Ming Chan
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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9
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Exploring conditions that make cortical bone geometry optimal for physiological loading. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2019; 18:1335-1349. [PMID: 30953214 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-019-01147-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
While physiological loading on lower long bones changes during bone development, the bone cross section either remains circular or slowly changes from nearly circular to other shapes such as oval and roughly triangular. Bone is said to be an optimal structure, where strength is maximized using the optimal distribution of bone mass (also called Wolff's law). One of the most appropriate mathematical validations of this law would be a structural optimization-based formulation where total strain energy is minimized against a mass and a space constraint. Assuming that the change in cross section during bone development and homeostasis after adulthood is direct result of the change in physiological loading, this work investigates what optimization problem formulation (collectively, design variables, objective function, constraints, loading conditions, etc.) results in mathematically optimal solutions that resemble bones under actual physiological loading. For this purpose, an advanced structural optimization-based computational model for cortical bone development and defect repair is presented. In the optimization problem, overall bone stiffness is maximized first against a mass constraint, and then also against a polar first moment of area constraint that simultaneously constrains both mass and space. The investigation is completed in two stages. The first stage is developmental stage when physiological loading on lower long bones (tibia) is a random combination of axial, bending and torsion. The topology optimization applied to this case with the area moment constraint results into circular and elliptical cross sections similar to that found in growing mouse or human. The second investigation stage is bone homeostasis reached in adulthood when the physiological loading has a fixed pattern. A drill hole defect is applied to the adult mouse bone, which would disrupt the homeostasis. The optimization applied after the defect interestingly brings the damaged section back to the original intact geometry. The results, however, show that cortical bone geometry is optimal for the physiological loading only when there is also a constraint on polar moment of area. Further numerical experiments show that application of torsion along with the gait-analysis-based physiological loading improves the results, which seems to indicate that the cortical bone geometry is optimal for some amount of torsion in addition to the gait-based physiological loading. This work has a potential to be extended to bone growth/development models and fracture healing models, where topology optimization and polar moment of area constraint have not been introduced earlier.
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10
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Qu F, Stoeckl BD, Gebhard PM, Hullfish TJ, Baxter JR, Mauck RL. A Wearable Magnet-Based System to Assess Activity and Joint Flexion in Humans and Large Animals. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 46:2069-2078. [PMID: 30083860 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-2105-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Functional outcomes, such as joint flexion and gait, are important indicators of efficacy in musculoskeletal research. Current technologies that objectively assess these parameters, including visual tracking systems and force plates, are challenging to deploy in long-term translational and clinical studies. To that end, we developed a wearable device that measures both physical activity and joint flexion using a single integrated sensor and magnet system, and hypothesized that it could evaluate post-operative functional recovery in an unsupervised setting. To demonstrate the feasibility of measuring joint flexion, we first compared knee motion from the wearable device to that acquired from a motion capture system to confirm that knee flexion measurements during normal human gait, predicted via changes in magnetic field strength, closely correlated with data acquired by motion capture. Using this system, we then monitored a porcine cohort after bilateral stifle arthrotomy to investigate longitudinal changes in physical activity and joint flexion. We found that unsupervised activity declined immediately after surgery, with a return to pre-operative activity occurring over a period of 2 weeks. By providing objective, individualized data on locomotion and joint function, this magnet-based system will facilitate the in vivo assessment of novel therapeutics in translational orthopaedic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feini Qu
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Brendan D Stoeckl
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Peter M Gebhard
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Todd J Hullfish
- Human Motion Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Josh R Baxter
- Human Motion Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert L Mauck
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA. .,Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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11
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Charles JP, Cappellari O, Hutchinson JR. A Dynamic Simulation of Musculoskeletal Function in the Mouse Hindlimb During Trotting Locomotion. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2018; 6:61. [PMID: 29868576 PMCID: PMC5964171 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2018.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mice are often used as animal models of various human neuromuscular diseases, and analysis of these models often requires detailed gait analysis. However, little is known of the dynamics of the mouse musculoskeletal system during locomotion. In this study, we used computer optimization procedures to create a simulation of trotting in a mouse, using a previously developed mouse hindlimb musculoskeletal model in conjunction with new experimental data, allowing muscle forces, activation patterns, and levels of mechanical work to be estimated. Analyzing musculotendon unit (MTU) mechanical work throughout the stride allowed a deeper understanding of their respective functions, with the rectus femoris MTU dominating the generation of positive and negative mechanical work during the swing and stance phases. This analysis also tested previous functional inferences of the mouse hindlimb made from anatomical data alone, such as the existence of a proximo-distal gradient of muscle function, thought to reflect adaptations for energy-efficient locomotion. The results do not strongly support the presence of this gradient within the mouse musculoskeletal system, particularly given relatively high negative net work output from the ankle plantarflexor MTUs, although more detailed simulations could test this further. This modeling analysis lays a foundation for future studies of the control of vertebrate movement through the development of neuromechanical simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Charles
- Neuromuscular Diseases Group, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, United Kingdom.,Structure and Motion Lab, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Ornella Cappellari
- Neuromuscular Diseases Group, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, United Kingdom
| | - John R Hutchinson
- Structure and Motion Lab, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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12
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Herbin M, Hommet E, Hanotin-Dossot V, Perret M, Hackert R. Treadmill locomotion of the mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus); kinematic parameters during symmetrical and asymmetrical gaits. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2018; 204:537-547. [PMID: 29610933 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-018-1256-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The gaits of the adult grey mouse lemur Microcebus murinus were studied during treadmill locomotion over a large range of velocities. The locomotion sequences were analysed to determine the gait and the various spatiotemporal gait parameters of the limbs. We found that velocity adjustments are accounted for differently by stride frequency and stride length depending on whether the animal showed a symmetrical or an asymmetrical gait. When using symmetrical gaits the increase in velocity is associated with a constant contribution of the stride length and stride frequency; the increase of the stride frequency being always lower. When using asymmetrical gaits, the increase in velocity is mainly assured by an increase in the stride length which tends to decrease with increasing velocity. A reduction in both stance time and swing time contributed to the increase in stride frequency for both gaits, though with a major contribution from the decrease in stance time. The pattern of locomotion obtained in a normal young adult mouse lemurs can be used as a template for studying locomotor control deficits during aging or in different environments such as arboreal ones which likely modify the kinematics of locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Herbin
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France.
| | - Eva Hommet
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
| | - Vicky Hanotin-Dossot
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
| | - Martine Perret
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
| | - Rémi Hackert
- Department Adaptations du Vivant, UMR MECADEV 7179 Sorbonne Universités-MNHN-UPMC-CNRS-IRD, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CP55 57 rue Cuvier, 75231, Paris Cedex05, France
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Wasilczuk AZ, Maier KL, Kelz MB. The Mouse as a Model Organism for Assessing Anesthetic Sensitivity. Methods Enzymol 2018; 602:211-228. [PMID: 29588030 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The mouse has been used in many medical fields as a powerful model to reveal the genetic basis of human physiology and disease. The past two decades have witnessed an enormous wealth of genetic and informatic resources dedicated to this humble organism. With the ongoing revolution in mapping neural circuitry governing behavior, the mouse is an ideal model organism poised to unravel the mysteries of general anesthetic action. This chapter will describe and provide guidelines for anesthetic phenotyping in the mouse including both motor-dependent and motor-independent assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Z Wasilczuk
- University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Kaitlyn L Maier
- University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Max B Kelz
- University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Center for Sleep and Circadian Neurobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Dynamic weight bearing analysis is effective for evaluation of tendinopathy using a customized corridor with multi-directional force sensors in a rat model. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8708. [PMID: 28821728 PMCID: PMC5562883 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Few studies discuss kinetic changes in tendinopathy models. We propose a customized corridor to evaluate dynamic weight bearing (DWB) and shearing forces. Sixty rats were randomly given ultrasound-assisted collagenase injections (Collagenase rats) or needle punctures (Control rats) in their left Achilles tendons, and then evaluated 1, 4, and 8 weeks later. The Collagenase rats always had significantly (p < 0.001) higher histopathological and ultrasound feature scores than did the Controls, significantly lower DWB values in the injured than in the right hindlimbs, and compensatorily higher (p < 0.05) DWB values in the contralateral than in the left forelimbs. The injured hindlimbs had lower outward shearing force 1 and 4 weeks later, and higher (p < 0.05) push-off shearing force 8 weeks later, than did the contralateral hindlimbs. Injured Control rat hindlimbs had lower DWB values than did the contralateral only at week 1. The Collagenase rats had only lower static weight bearing ratios (SWBRs) values than did the Controls at week 1 (p < 0.05). Our customized corridor showed changes in DWB compatible with histopathological and ultrasound feature changes in the rat tendinopathy model. The hindlimb SWBRs did not correspond with any tendinopathic changes.
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Delco ML, Kennedy JG, Bonassar LJ, Fortier LA. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the ankle: A distinct clinical entity requiring new research approaches. J Orthop Res 2017; 35:440-453. [PMID: 27764893 PMCID: PMC5467729 DOI: 10.1002/jor.23462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of ankle osteoarthritis (OA) is increasing as a result of advancements in non-invasive imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging, improved arthroscopic surgical technology and heightened awareness among clinicians. Unlike OA of the knee, primary or age-related ankle OA is rare, with the majority of ankle OA classified as post-traumatic (PTOA). Ankle trauma, more specifically ankle sprain, is the single most common athletic injury, and no effective therapies are available to prevent or slow progression of PTOA. Despite the high incidence of ankle trauma and OA, ankle-related OA research is sparse, with the majority of clinical and basic studies pertaining to the knee joint. Fundamental differences exist between joints including their structure and molecular composition, response to trauma, susceptibility to OA, clinical manifestations of disease, and response to treatment. Considerable evidence suggests that research findings from knee should not be extrapolated to the ankle, however few ankle-specific preclinical models of PTOA are currently available. The objective of this article is to review the current state of ankle OA investigation, highlighting important differences between the ankle and knee that may limit the extent to which research findings from knee models are applicable to the ankle joint. Considerations for the development of new ankle-specific, clinically relevant animal models are discussed. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:440-453, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Delco
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 930 Campus Road, Ithaca, New York
| | - John G. Kennedy
- Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York
| | - Lawrence J. Bonassar
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meining School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Lisa A. Fortier
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 930 Campus Road, Ithaca, New York
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Smith BJH, Cullingford L, Usherwood JR. Identification of mouse gaits using a novel force-sensing exercise wheel. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2015; 119:704-18. [PMID: 26139220 PMCID: PMC4687864 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01014.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The gaits that animals use can provide information on neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, as well as the biomechanics of locomotion. Mice are a common research model in many fields; however, there is no consensus in the literature on how (and if) mouse gaits vary with speed. One of the challenges in studying mouse gaits is that mice tend to run intermittently on treadmills or overground; this paper attempts to overcome this issue with a novel exercise wheel that measures vertical ground reaction forces. Unlike previous instrumented wheels, this wheel is able to measure forces continuously and can therefore record data from consecutive strides. By concatenating the maximum limb force at each time point, a force trace can be constructed to quantify and identify gaits. The wheel was three dimensionally printed, allowing the design to be shared with other researchers. The kinematic parameters measured by the wheel were evaluated using high-speed video. Gaits were classified using a metric called "3S" (stride signal symmetry), which quantifies the half wave symmetry of the force trace peaks. Although mice are capable of using both symmetric and asymmetric gaits throughout their speed range, the continuum of gaits can be divided into regions based on the frequency of symmetric and asymmetric gaits; these divisions are further supported by the fact that mice run less frequently at speeds near the boundaries between regions. The boundary speeds correspond to gait transition speeds predicted by the hypothesis that mice move in a dynamically similar fashion to other legged animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J H Smith
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Lottie Cullingford
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - James R Usherwood
- Structure and Motion Laboratory, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
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Wang Z, Dai Z, Ji A, Ren L, Xing Q, Dai L. Biomechanics of gecko locomotion: the patterns of reaction forces on inverted, vertical and horizontal substrates. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2015; 10:016019. [PMID: 25650374 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/10/1/016019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The excellent locomotion ability of geckos on various rough and/or inclined substrates has attracted scientists' attention for centuries. However, the moving ability of gecko-mimicking robots on various inclined surfaces still lags far behind that of geckos, mainly because our understanding of how geckos govern their locomotion is still very poor. To reveal the fundamental mechanism of gecko locomotion and also to facilitate the design of gecko-mimicking robots, we have measured the reaction forces (RFs) acting on each individual foot of moving geckos on inverted, vertical and horizontal substrates (i.e. ceiling, wall and floor), have associated the RFs with locomotion behaviors by using high-speed camera, and have presented the relationships of the force components with patterns of reaction forces (PRFs). Geckos generate different PRF on ceiling, wall and floor, that is, the PRF is determined by the angles between the direction of gravity and the substrate on which geckos move. On the ceiling, geckos produce reversed shear forces acting on the front and hind feet, which pull away from the body in both lateral and fore-aft directions. They use a very large supporting angle from 21° to 24° to reduce the forces acting on their legs and feet. On the floor, geckos lift their bodies using a supporting angle from 76° to 78°, which not only decreases the RFs but also improves their locomotion ability. On the wall, geckos generate a reliable self-locking attachment by using a supporting angle of 14.8°, which is only about half of the critical angle of detachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouyi Wang
- Institute of Bio-inspired Structure and Surface Engineering, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing, 210016, People's Republic of China
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Sharp AA, Cain BW, Pakiraih J, Williams JL. A system for the determination of planar force vectors from spontaneously active chicken embryos. J Neurophysiol 2014; 112:2349-56. [PMID: 25143544 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00423.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Generally, a combination of kinematic, electromyographic (EMG), and force measurements are used to understand how an organism generates and controls movement. The chicken embryo has been a very useful model system for understanding the early stages of embryonic motility in vertebrates. Unfortunately, the size and delicate nature of embryos makes studies of motility during embryogenesis very challenging. Both kinematic and EMG recordings have been achieved in embryonic chickens, but two-dimensional force vector recordings have not. Here, we describe a dual-axis system for measuring force generated by the leg of embryonic chickens. The system employs two strain gauges to measure planar forces oriented with the plane of motion of the leg. This system responds to forces according to the principles of Pythagorean geometry, which allows a simple computational program to determine the force vector (magnitude and direction) generated during spontaneous motor activity. The system is able to determine force vectors for forces >0.5 mN accurately and allows for simultaneous kinematic and EMG recordings. This sensitivity is sufficient for force vector measurements encompassing most embryonic leg movements in midstage chicken embryos allowing for a more complete understanding of embryonic motility. Variations on this system are discussed to enable nonideal or alternative sensor arrangements and to allow for translation of this approach to other delicate model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A Sharp
- Department of Anatomy, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois; Center for Integrated Research and Cognitive Neural Science, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois;
| | - Blake W Cain
- Molecular, Cellular and Systemic Physiology Undergraduate Program, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois
| | - Joanna Pakiraih
- Biomedical Engineering Master's Program, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois; and
| | - James L Williams
- Electrical Engineering Undergraduate Program, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois
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Corbee RJ, Barnier MMC, van de Lest CHA, Hazewinkel HAW. The effect of dietary long-chain omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on owner's perception of behaviour and locomotion in cats with naturally occurring osteoarthritis. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2012; 97:846-53. [PMID: 22882740 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2012.01329.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, cross-over designed study was to demonstrate the clinical effect, registered by a survey, of a 10-week period of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation of the diet (1.53 g eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 0.31 g DHA, both per 1000 kcal ME, equivalent to the complete diet) of 16 cats with radiologically documented, naturally occurring osteoarthritis (OA), in comparison with a 10-week period of supplementation with corn oil (0.00 g EPA and 0.00 g DHA, both per 1000 kcal ME). Cats on the fish oil revealed higher activity level (p = 0.07), more walking up and down the stairs (p = 0.07), less stiffness during gait (p = 0.03), more interaction with the owner (p = 0.07) and higher jumps (p = 0.03) compared to those on corn oil supplementation. In conclusion, supplementation of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids changes the owner's perception of some aspects of behaviour and locomotion in cats with naturally occurring OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Corbee
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands Applied Biology, High School of Agriculture, 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M M C Barnier
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands Applied Biology, High School of Agriculture, 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C H A van de Lest
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands Applied Biology, High School of Agriculture, 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H A W Hazewinkel
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands Applied Biology, High School of Agriculture, 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Lin HT, Trimmer BA. A new bi-axial cantilever beam design for biomechanics force measurements. J Biomech 2012; 45:2310-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Revised: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Roach GC, Edke M, Griffin TM. A novel mouse running wheel that senses individual limb forces: biomechanical validation and in vivo testing. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2012; 113:627-35. [PMID: 22723628 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00272.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomechanical data provide fundamental information about changes in musculoskeletal function during development, adaptation, and disease. To facilitate the study of mouse locomotor biomechanics, we modified a standard mouse running wheel to include a force-sensitive rung capable of measuring the normal and tangential forces applied by individual paws. Force data were collected throughout the night using an automated threshold trigger algorithm that synchronized force data with wheel-angle data and a high-speed infrared video file. During the first night of wheel running, mice reached consistent running speeds within the first 40 force events, indicating a rapid habituation to wheel running, given that mice generated >2,000 force-event files/night. Average running speeds and peak normal and tangential forces were consistent throughout the first four nights of running, indicating that one night of running is sufficient to characterize the locomotor biomechanics of healthy mice. Twelve weeks of wheel running significantly increased spontaneous wheel-running speeds (16 vs. 37 m/min), lowered duty factors (ratio of foot-ground contact time to stride time; 0.71 vs. 0.58), and raised hindlimb peak normal forces (93 vs. 115% body wt) compared with inexperienced mice. Peak normal hindlimb-force magnitudes were the primary force component, which were nearly tenfold greater than peak tangential forces. Peak normal hindlimb forces exceed the vertical forces generated during overground running (50-60% body wt), suggesting that wheel running shifts weight support toward the hindlimbs. This force-instrumented running-wheel system provides a comprehensive, noninvasive screening method for monitoring gait biomechanics in mice during spontaneous locomotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grahm C Roach
- Program in Free Radical Biology and Aging, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104-5046, USA
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22
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Allen KD, Mata BA, Gabr MA, Huebner JL, Adams SB, Kraus VB, Schmitt DO, Setton LA. Kinematic and dynamic gait compensations resulting from knee instability in a rat model of osteoarthritis. Arthritis Res Ther 2012; 14:R78. [PMID: 22510443 PMCID: PMC3446452 DOI: 10.1186/ar3801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2011] [Revised: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Osteoarthritis (OA) results in pain and disability; however, preclinical OA models often focus on joint-level changes. Gait analysis is one method used to evaluate both preclinical OA models and OA patients. The objective of this study is to describe spatiotemporal and ground reaction force changes in a rat medial meniscus transection (MMT) model of knee OA and to compare these gait measures with assays of weight bearing and tactile allodynia. Methods Sixteen rats were used in the study. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) was transected in twelve Lewis rats (male, 200 to 250 g); in six rats, the medial meniscus was transected, and the remaining six rats served as sham controls. The remaining four rats served as naïve controls. Gait, weight-bearing as measured by an incapacitance meter, and tactile allodynia were assessed on postoperative days 9 to 24. On day 28, knee joints were collected for histology. Cytokine concentrations in the serum were assessed with a 10-plex cytokine panel. Results Weight bearing was not affected by sham or MMT surgery; however, the MMT group had decreased mechanical paw-withdrawal thresholds in the operated limb relative to the contralateral limb (P = 0.017). The gait of the MMT group became increasingly asymmetric from postoperative days 9 to 24 (P = 0.020); moreover, MMT animals tended to spend more time on their contralateral limb than their operated limb while walking (P < 0.1). Ground reaction forces confirmed temporal shifts in symmetry and stance time, as the MMT group had lower vertical and propulsive ground reaction forces in their operated limb relative to the contralateral limb, naïve, and sham controls (P < 0.05). Levels of interleukin 6 in the MMT group tended to be higher than naïve controls (P = 0.072). Histology confirmed increased cartilage damage in the MMT group, consistent with OA initiation. Post hoc analysis revealed that gait symmetry, stance time imbalance, peak propulsive force, and serum interleukin 6 concentrations had significant correlations to the severity of cartilage lesion formation. Conclusion These data indicate significant gait compensations were present in the MMT group relative to medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury (sham) alone and naïve controls. Moreover, these data suggest that gait compensations are likely driven by meniscal instability and/or cartilage damage, and not by MCL injury alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D Allen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Allen KD, Shamji MF, Mata BA, Gabr MA, Sinclair SM, Schmitt DO, Richardson WJ, Setton LA. Kinematic and dynamic gait compensations in a rat model of lumbar radiculopathy and the effects of tumor necrosis factor-alpha antagonism. Arthritis Res Ther 2011; 13:R137. [PMID: 21871102 PMCID: PMC3239380 DOI: 10.1186/ar3451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 06/14/2011] [Accepted: 08/26/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) has received significant attention as a mediator of lumbar radiculopathy, with interest in TNF antagonism to treat radiculopathy. Prior studies have demonstrated that TNF antagonists can attenuate heightened nociception resulting from lumbar radiculopathy in the preclinical model. Less is known about the potential impact of TNF antagonism on gait compensations, despite being of clinical relevance. In this study, we expand on previous descriptions of gait compensations resulting from lumbar radiculopathy in the rat and describe the ability of local TNF antagonism to prevent the development of gait compensations, altered weight bearing, and heightened nociception. Methods Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated for mechanical sensitivity, weight-bearing, and gait pre- and post-operatively. For surgery, tail nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue was collected and the right L5 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was exposed (Day 0). In sham animals, NP tissue was discarded (n = 6); for experimental animals, autologous NP was placed on the DRG with or without 20 μg of soluble TNF receptor type II (sTNFRII, n = 6 per group). Spatiotemporal gait characteristics (open arena) and mechanical sensitivity (von Frey filaments) were assessed on post-operative Day 5; gait dynamics (force plate arena) and weight-bearing (incapacitance meter) were assessed on post-operative Day 6. Results High-speed gait characterization revealed animals with NP alone had a 5% decrease in stance time on their affected limbs on Day 5 (P ≤0.032). Ground reaction force analysis on Day 6 aligned with temporal changes observed on Day 5, with vertical impulse reduced in the affected limb of animals with NP alone (area under the vertical force-time curve, P <0.02). Concordant with gait, animals with NP alone also had some evidence of affected limb mechanical allodynia on Day 5 (P = 0.08) and reduced weight-bearing on the affected limb on Day 6 (P <0.05). Delivery of sTNFRII at the time of NP placement ameliorated signs of mechanical hypersensitivity, imbalanced weight distribution, and gait compensations (P <0.1). Conclusions Our data indicate gait characterization has value for describing early limb dysfunctions in pre-clinical models of lumbar radiculopathy. Furthermore, TNF antagonism prevented the development of gait compensations subsequent to lumbar radiculopathy in our model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D Allen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 136 Hudson Hall, Box 90281, Durham, NC, USA
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Manske SL, Boyd SK, Zernicke RF. Vertical ground reaction forces diminish in mice after botulinum toxin injection. J Biomech 2011; 44:637-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2010] [Revised: 11/04/2010] [Accepted: 11/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Roemhildt ML, Gardner-Morse M, Rowell C, Beynnon BD, Badger GJ. Gait alterations in rats following attachment of a device and application of altered knee loading. J Biomech 2010; 43:3227-31. [PMID: 20739023 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2010] [Revised: 07/29/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Animal models are widely used to study cartilage degeneration. Experimental interventions to alter contact mechanics in articular joints may also affect the loads borne by the leg during gait and consequently affect the overall loading experienced in the joint. In this study, force plate analyses were utilized to measure parameters of gait in the rear legs of adult rats following application of a varus loading device that altered loading in the knee. Adult rats were assigned to Control, Sham, or Loaded groups (n ≥ 4/each). Varus loading devices were surgically attached to rats in the Sham and Loaded groups. In the Loaded group, this device applied a controlled compressive overload to the medial compartment of the knee during periods of engagement. Peak ground reaction forces during walking were recorded for each rear leg of each group. Analyses of variance were used to compare outcomes across groups (Control, Sham, and Loaded), leg (contralateral, experimental) and device status (disengaged, engaged) to determine the effects of surgically attaching the device and applying a compressive overload to the joint with the device. The mean peak vertical force in the experimental leg was reduced to 30% in the Sham group in comparison to the contralateral leg and the Control group, indicating an effect of attaching the device to the leg (p<0.01). No differences were found in ground reaction forces between the Sham and Loaded groups with application of compressive overloads with the device. The significant reduction in vertical force due to the surgical attachment of the varus loading device must be considered and accounted for in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Roemhildt
- McClure Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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Prasad J, Wiater BP, Nork SE, Bain SD, Gross TS. Characterizing gait induced normal strains in a murine tibia cortical bone defect model. J Biomech 2010; 43:2765-70. [PMID: 20674920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2010.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2010] [Revised: 06/03/2010] [Accepted: 06/03/2010] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The critical role that mechanical stimuli serve in mediating bone repair is recognized but incompletely understood. Further, previous attempts to understand this role have utilized application of externally applied mechanical loads to study the tissue's response. In this project, we have therefore endeavored to capitalize on bone's own consistently diverse loading environment to develop a novel model that would enable assessment of the influence of physiologically engendered mechanical stimuli on cortical defect repair. We used an inverse dynamics approach with finite element analysis (FEA) to first quantify normal strain distributions generated in mouse tibia during locomotion. The strain environment of the tibia, as previously reported for other long bones, was found to arise primarily due to bending and was consistent in orientation through the stance phase of gait. Based on these data, we identified three regions within a transverse cross-section of the mid-diaphysis as uniform locations of either peak tension, peak compression, or the neutral axis of bending (i.e. minimal strain magnitude). We then used FEA to quantify the altered strain environment that would be produced by a 0.6mm diameter cylindrical cortical bone defect at each diaphyseal site and, in an in situ study confirmed our ability to accurately place defects at the desired diaphyseal locations. The resulting model will enable the exploration of cortical bone healing within the context of physiologically engendered mechanical strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitendra Prasad
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, 325 Ninth Avenue, Box 359798, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
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Griffin TM, Fermor B, Huebner JL, Kraus VB, Rodriguiz RM, Wetsel WC, Cao L, Setton LA, Guilak F. Diet-induced obesity differentially regulates behavioral, biomechanical, and molecular risk factors for osteoarthritis in mice. Arthritis Res Ther 2010; 12:R130. [PMID: 20604941 PMCID: PMC2945020 DOI: 10.1186/ar3068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2010] [Revised: 05/19/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of osteoarthritis in both weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing joints. The mechanisms by which obesity influences the structural or symptomatic features of osteoarthritis are not well understood, but may include systemic inflammation associated with increased adiposity. In this study, we examined biomechanical, neurobehavioral, inflammatory, and osteoarthritic changes in C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat diet. Methods Female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a 10% kcal fat or a 45% kcal fat diet from 9 to 54 weeks of age. Longitudinal changes in musculoskeletal function and inflammation were compared with endpoint neurobehavioral and osteoarthritic disease states. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine independent associations with diet, percentage body fat, and knee osteoarthritis severity. We also examined healthy porcine cartilage explants treated with physiologic doses of leptin, alone or in combination with IL-1α and palmitic and oleic fatty acids, to determine the effects of leptin on cartilage extracellular matrix homeostasis. Results High susceptibility to dietary obesity was associated with increased osteoarthritic changes in the knee and impaired musculoskeletal force generation and motor function compared with controls. A high-fat diet also induced symptomatic characteristics of osteoarthritis, including hyperalgesia and anxiety-like behaviors. Controlling for the effects of diet and percentage body fat with a multivariate model revealed a significant association between knee osteoarthritis severity and serum levels of leptin, adiponectin, and IL-1α. Physiologic doses of leptin, in the presence or absence of IL-1α and fatty acids, did not substantially alter extracellular matrix homeostasis in healthy cartilage explants. Conclusions These results indicate that diet-induced obesity increases the risk of symptomatic features of osteoarthritis through changes in musculoskeletal function and pain-related behaviors. Furthermore, the independent association of systemic adipokine levels with knee osteoarthritis severity supports a role for adipose-associated inflammation in the molecular pathogenesis of obesity-induced osteoarthritis. Physiologic levels of leptin do not alter extracellular matrix homeostasis in healthy cartilage, suggesting that leptin may be a secondary mediator of osteoarthritis pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Griffin
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Schmitt D, Zumwalt AC, Hamrick MW. The relationship between bone mechanical properties and ground reaction forces in normal and hypermuscular mice. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL GENETICS AND PHYSIOLOGY 2010; 313:339-51. [PMID: 20535766 PMCID: PMC3666574 DOI: 10.1002/jez.604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the relationship between external load and bone morphology is critical for understanding adaptations to load in extant animals and inferring behavior in extinct forms. Yet, the relationship between bony anatomy and load is poorly understood, with empirical studies often producing conflicting results. It is widely assumed in many ecological and paleontological studies that bone size and strength reflect the forces experienced by the bone in vivo. This study examines that assumption by providing preliminary data on gait mechanics in a hypermuscular myostatin-deficient mouse model with highly mineralized and hypertrophied long bones. A small sample of hypermuscular and wild-type mice was video recorded while walking freely across a force platform. Temporal gait parameters, peak vertical and transverse (mediolateral) ground reaction forces (GRFs), vertical impulse, and loading rates were measured. The only gait parameters that differed between the two groups were the speeds at which the animals traveled and the transverse forces on the hind limb. The myostatin-deficient mice move relatively slowly and experienced the same magnitude of vertical forces on all limbs and transverse forces on the forelimb as the wild-type mice; though the myostatin-deficient mice did experience lower mediolateral forces on their hindlimbs compared with the wild-type mice. These preliminary results call into question the hypothesis that skeletal hypertrophy observed in hypermuscular mice is a result of larger GRFs experienced by the animals' limbs during locomotion. This calls for further analysis and a cautious approach to inferences about locomotor behavior derived from bony morphology in extant and fossil species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Schmitt
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27701, USA.
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Wagner EB, Granzella NP, Saito H, Newman DJ, Young LR, Bouxsein ML. Partial weight suspension: a novel murine model for investigating adaptation to reduced musculoskeletal loading. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2010; 109:350-7. [PMID: 20522735 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00014.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed a new model of hypodynamic loading to support mice in chronic conditions of partial weight bearing, enabling simulations of reduced gravity environments and related clinical conditions. The novel hardware allows for reduced loading between 10 and 80% of normal body weight on all four limbs and enables characteristic quadrupedal locomotion. Ten-week-old female BALB/cByJ mice were supported for 21 days under Mars-analog suspension (38% weight bearing) and compared with age-matched and jacketed (100% weight bearing) controls. After an initial adaptation, weight gain did not differ between groups, suggesting low levels of animal stress. Relative to age-matched controls, mice exposed to Mars-analog loading had significantly lower muscle mass (-23% gastrocnemius wet mass, P < 0.0001); trabecular and cortical bone morphology (i.e., trabecular bone volume: -24% at the distal femur, and cortical thickness: -11% at the femoral midshaft, both P < 0.001); and biomechanical properties of the femoral midshaft (i.e., -27% ultimate moment, P < 0.001). Bone formation indexes were decreased compared with age-matched full-weight-bearing mice, whereas resorption parameters were largely unchanged. Singly housed, full-weight-bearing controls with forelimb jackets were largely similar to age-matched, group-housed controls, although a few variables differed and warrant further investigation. Altogether, these data provide strong rationale for use of our new model of partial weight bearing to further explore the musculoskeletal response to reduced loading environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika B Wagner
- Division of Health Science and Technology, Harvard-Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Lin HT, Trimmer BA. The substrate as a skeleton: ground reaction forces from a soft-bodied legged animal. J Exp Biol 2010; 213:1133-42. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.037796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
The measurement of forces generated during locomotion is essential for the development of accurate mechanical models of animal movements. However, animals that lack a stiff skeleton tend to dissipate locomotor forces in large tissue deformation and most have complex or poorly defined substrate contacts. Under these conditions, measuring propulsive and supportive forces is very difficult. One group that is an exception to this problem is lepidopteran larvae which, despite lacking a rigid skeleton, have well-developed limbs (the prolegs) that can be used for climbing in complex branched structures and on a variety of surfaces. Caterpillars therefore are excellent for examining the relationship between soft body deformation and substrate reaction forces during locomotion. In this study, we devised a method to measure the ground reaction forces (GRFs) at multiple contact points during crawling by the tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta). Most abdominal prolegs bear similar body weight during their stance phase. Interestingly, forward reaction forces did not come from pushing off the substrate. Instead, most positive reaction forces came from anterior abdominal prolegs loaded in tension while posterior legs produced drag in most instances. The counteracting GRFs effectively stretch the animal axially during the second stage of a crawl cycle. These findings help in understanding how a terrestrial soft-bodied animal can interact with its substrate to control deformation without hydraulic actuation. The results also provide insights into the behavioral and mechanistic constraints leading to the evolution of diverse proleg arrangements in different species of caterpillar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huai Ti Lin
- Tufts University, 165 Packard Avenue, Medford, MA, USA
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Force platform for rats measures fore and hind forces concurrently. J Biomech 2009; 42:2734-8. [PMID: 19782366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2009.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2007] [Revised: 08/01/2009] [Accepted: 08/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Animal models are commonly used to test the efficacy of impact loading regimens on bone strength. We designed an inexpensive force platform to concurrently measure the separate peak vertical impact forces produced by the fore and hindfeet of immature F-344 rats when dropped onto the platform. The force platform consisted of three load cells placed in a triangular pattern under a flat plate. Rats were dropped from heights of 30, 45 and 60 cm onto the platform so that they landed on all four feet concurrently. The peak vertical impact forces produced by the feet of the rats were measured using a sampling frequency of 100 kHz. The location of each foot at landing relative to the load cells, and the force received by each load cell were combined in a series of static equations to solve for the vertical impact forces produced by the fore and hindfeet. The forces produced by feet when rats stood on the single platform were similarly determined. The forces exerted separately by the fore and hindfeet of young rats when landing on the plate as a ratio to standing forces were then calculated. Rats when standing bore more weight on their hindfeet but landed with more weight on their forefeet, which provides rationale for the greater response to landing forces of bones in the forelimbs than those in the hindlimbs. This system provided a useful method to simultaneously measure peak vertical impact forces in fore and hindfeet in rats.
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Fowler SC, Miller BR, Gaither TW, Johnson MA, Rebec GV. Force-plate quantification of progressive behavioral deficits in the R6/2 mouse model of Huntington's disease. Behav Brain Res 2009; 202:130-7. [PMID: 19447289 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2009.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2008] [Revised: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 03/19/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The R6/2 mouse is a popular model of Huntington's disease (HD) because of its rapid progression and measurable behavioral phenotype. Yet current behavioral phenotyping methods are usually univariate (e.g., latency to fall from a rotarod) and labor intensive. We used a force-plate actometer and specialized computer algorithms to partition the data into topographically specific behavioral categories that were sensitive to HD-like abnormalities. Seven R6/2 male mice and 7 wild-type (WT) controls were placed in a 42 cm x 42 cm force-plate actometer for 20-min recording sessions at 6-7, 8-9, 10-11 and 12-13 weeks of age. Distance traveled, number of wall rears, and number of straight runs (traveling 175 mm or more in 1.5s) were reduced in R6/2 relative to WT mice at all ages tested. Low mobility bouts (each defined as remaining continuously in a virtual circle of 15 mm radius for 5s) were increased in R6/2 mice at 6-7 weeks and beyond. Independent of body weight, force off-load during wall rears was reduced in R6/2 mice except at 6-7 weeks. Power spectra of force variation during straight runs indicated an age-related progressive loss of rhythmicity in R6/2 compared to WT, suggesting gait dysrhythmia and dysmetria. Collectively, these data, which extend results obtained with other widely different behavioral phenotyping methods, document a multifaceted syndrome of motor abnormalities in R6/2 mice. We suggest, moreover, that the force-plate actometer offers a high-throughput tool for screening drugs that may affect symptom expression in R6/2 or other HD model mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Fowler
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA.
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Wooley CM, Xing S, Burgess RW, Cox GA, Seburn KL. Age, experience and genetic background influence treadmill walking in mice. Physiol Behav 2008; 96:350-61. [PMID: 19027767 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2008.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2008] [Revised: 10/24/2008] [Accepted: 10/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The use of a treadmill to gather data for gait analysis in mice is a convenient, sensitive method to evaluate motor performance. However, evidence from several species, including mice, shows that treadmill locomotion is a novel task that is not equivalent to over ground locomotion and that may be particularly sensitive to the test environment and protocol. We investigated the effects of age, genetic background and repeated trials on treadmill walking in mice and show that these factors are important considerations in the interpretation of gait data. Specifically we report that as C57BL/6J (B6) mice age, the animals use progressively longer, less frequent strides to maintain the same walking speed. The increase is most rapid between 1 and 6 months of age and is explained, in part, by changes in size and weight. We also extended previous findings showing that repeat trials cause mice to modify their treadmill gait pattern. In a second trial B6 mice consistently walk with a shorter swing phase and greater duty factor. Also, with the shortest retest interval (3 min) mice use shorter more frequent steps but the response varies with the number and timing of trials. Finally, we compared the gait pattern of an additional seven inbred strains of mice and found significant variation in the length and frequency of strides used to maintain the same walking speed. The combined results offer the bases for further mechanistic studies and can be used to guide optimal experimental design.
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Coordination strategies for limb forces during weight-bearing locomotion in normal rats, and in rats spinalized as neonates. Exp Brain Res 2008; 190:53-69. [PMID: 18612631 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-008-1451-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2007] [Accepted: 05/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Some rats spinally transected as neonates (ST rats) achieve weight-supporting independent locomotion. The mechanisms of coordinated hind-limb weight support in such rats are not well understood. To examine these we compared ST rats (with better than 60% of weight supported steps) and normal rats that were trained to cross an instrumented runway. Ground reaction forces, coordination of hind-limb and forelimb forces and the motions of the center of pressure (CoP) were assessed. Normal rats crossed the runway with a diagonal trot. On average hind-limbs bore about 80% of the vertical load carried by forelimbs (45% body weight on hind-limbs 55% on forelimbs), although this varied. Forelimbs and hind-limbs acted synergistically to generate decelerative and propulsive rostrocaudal forces, which averaged 15% of body weight with maximums of 50%. Lateral forces were very small (<8% of body weight). Center of pressure progressed in jumps along a straight line with mean lateral deviations <1 cm. ST rats hind-limbs bore about 60% of the vertical load of forelimbs (37% body weight on hind-limbs, 63% on forelimbs), significantly less compared to intact rats (P < 0.05). ST rats showed similar mean rostrocaudal forces, but with significantly larger maximum fluctuations of up to 80% of body weight (P < 0.05). Joint force-plate recordings showed forelimbs and hind-limb rostrocaudal forces in ST rats were opposing and significantly different from intact rats (P < 0.05). Lateral forces were approximately 20% of body weight and significantly larger than in normal rats (P < 0.05). Center of pressure zig-zagged, with mean lateral deviations of approximately 2 cm and a significantly larger range (P < 0.05). The haunches were also observed to roll more than normal rats. The locomotor strategy of injured rats using limbs in opposition was presumably less efficient but their complex gait was statically stable. Because forelimbs and hind-limbs acted in opposition, the trunk was held compressed. Force coordination was likely managed largely by the voluntary control in forelimbs and trunk.
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Carlson KJ, Lublinsky S, Judex S. Do different locomotor modes during growth modulate trabecular architecture in the murine hind limb? Integr Comp Biol 2008; 48:385-93. [DOI: 10.1093/icb/icn066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
SUMMARY
Comparative studies of vertebrate morphology that link habitual locomotor activities to bone structural properties are often limited by confounding factors such as genetic variability between groups. Experimental assessment of bone's adaptive response to altered activity patterns typically involves superimposing exercise onto a normal locomotor repertoire, making a distinction between qualitative changes to locomotor repertoires and quantitative increases in activity level difficult. Here, we directly tested the hypothesis that an increase in turning activity, without the application of exercise per se, will alter femoral cross-sectional shape. Thirty day-old female BALB/cByJ mice (n=10 per group) were single-housed for 8 weeks in custom-designed cages that either accentuated linear or turning locomotion or allowed subjects to freely roam standard cages. Consistent with a lack of difference in physical activity levels between groups, there were no significant differences in body mass, femoral length, midshaft cortical area,and individual measures of mediolateral (ML) and anteroposterior (AP) bending rigidity. However, the ratio of ML to AP diaphyseal rigidity, an indicator of cross-sectional shape, was significantly greater (P<0.05) in turning subjects than in linear or control subjects. Considering that across all groups mice were genetically identical and had equivalent levels of bone quantity and physical activity, differences in femoral shape were attributed to qualitative differences in locomotor patterns (i.e. specific locomotor modes). These data indicate that increased turning can alter distribution of bone mass in the femoral diaphysis, and that turning should be considered in efforts to understand form–function relationships in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian J Carlson
- Department of Anatomy, New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, Northern Boulevard, Old Westbury, NY 11568-8000, USA.
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Hutchinson D, Ho V, Dodd M, Dawson HN, Zumwalt AC, Schmitt D, Colton CA. Quantitative measurement of postural sway in mouse models of human neurodegenerative disease. Neuroscience 2007; 148:825-32. [PMID: 17764851 PMCID: PMC2175386 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2007] [Revised: 07/18/2007] [Accepted: 07/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Detection of motor dysfunction in genetic mouse models of neurodegenerative disease requires reproducible, standardized and sensitive behavioral assays. We have utilized a center of pressure (CoP) assay in mice to quantify postural sway produced by genetic mutations that affect motor control centers of the brain. As a positive control for postural instability, wild type mice were injected with harmaline, a tremorigenic agent, and the average areas of the 95% confidence ellipse, which measures 95% of the CoP trajectory values recorded in a single trial, were measured. Ellipse area significantly increased in mice treated with increasing doses of harmaline and returned to control values after recovery. We also examined postural sway in mice expressing mutations that mimic frontotemporal dementia with Parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17) (T-279, P301L or P301L-nitric oxide synthase 2 (NOS2)(-/-) mice) and that demonstrate motor symptoms. These mice were then compared with a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (APPSwDI mice) that demonstrates cognitive, but not motor deficits. T-279 and P301L-NOS2(-/-) mice demonstrated a significant increase in CoP ellipse area compared with appropriate wild type control mice or to mice expressing the P301L mutation alone. In contrast, postural instability was significantly reduced in APPSwDI mice that have cognitive deficits but do not have associated motor deficits. The CoP assay provides a simple, sensitive and quantitative tool to detect motor deficits resulting from postural abnormalities in mice and may be useful in understanding the underlying mechanisms of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hutchinson
- Division of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham NC 27710
| | - Venus Ho
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY England
| | - Michael Dodd
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY England
| | - Hana N. Dawson
- Division of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham NC 27710
| | - Ann C. Zumwalt
- Department of Biological Anthropology & Anatomy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Daniel Schmitt
- Department of Biological Anthropology & Anatomy, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710
| | - Carol A. Colton
- Division of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham NC 27710
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