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Böl M, Leichsenring K, Kohn S, Ehret AE. The anisotropic and region-dependent mechanical response of wrap-around tendons under tensile, compressive and combined multiaxial loads. Acta Biomater 2024; 183:157-172. [PMID: 38838908 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.05.053] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The present work reports on the multiaxial region and orientation-dependent mechanical properties of two porcine wrap-around tendons under tensile, compressive and combined loads based on an extensive study with n=175 samples. The results provide a detailed dataset of the anisotropic tensile and compressive longitudinal properties and document a pronounced tension-compression asymmetry. Motivated by the physiological loading conditions of these tendons, which include transversal compression at bony abutments in addition to longitudinal tension, we systematically investigated the change in axial tension when the tendon is compressed transversally along one or both perpendicular directions. The results reveal that the transversal compression can increase axial tension (proximal-distal direction) in both cases to orders of 30%, yet by a larger amount in the first case (transversal compression in anterior-posterior direction), which seems to be more relevant for wrap-around tendons in-vivo. These quantitative measurements are in line with earlier findings on auxetic properties of tendon tissue, but show for the first time the influence of this property on the stress response of the tendon, and may thus reveal an important functional principle within these essential elements of force transmission in the body. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The work reports for the first time on multiaxial region and orientation-dependent mechanical properties of wrap-around tendons under various loads. The results indicate that differences in the mechanical properties exist between zones that are predominantly in a uniaxial tensile state and those that experience complex load states. The observed counterintuitive increase of the axial tension upon lateral compression points at auxetic properties of the tendon tissue which may be pivotal for the function of the tendon as an element of the musculoskeletal system. It suggests that the tendon's performance in transmitting forces is not diminished but enhanced when the action line is deflected by a bony pulley around which the tendon wraps, representing an important functional principle of tendon tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Böl
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig D-38106, Germany.
| | - Kay Leichsenring
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig D-38106, Germany
| | - Stephan Kohn
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig D-38106, Germany
| | - Alexander E Ehret
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland; Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, Zürich, CH-8092, Switzerland
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Chu Kwan W, Partanen A, Narayanan U, Waspe AC, Drake JM. Biomechanical testing of ex vivo porcine tendons following high intensity focused ultrasound thermal ablation. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302778. [PMID: 38713687 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) has been demonstrated to be able to thermally ablate tendons with the aim to non-invasively disrupt tendon contractures in the clinical setting. However, the biomechanical changes of tendons permitting this disrupting is poorly understood. We aim to obtain a dose-dependent biomechanical response of tendons following magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thermal ablation. METHODS Ex vivo porcine tendons (n = 72) were embedded in an agar phantom and randomly assigned to 12 groups based on MRgFUS treatment. The treatment time was 10, 20, or 30s, and the applied acoustic power was 25, 50, 75, or 100W. Following each MRgFUS treatment, tendons underwent biomechanical tensile testing on an Instron machine, which calculated stress-strain curves during tendon elongation. Rupture rate, maximum treatment temperature, Young's modulus and ultimate strength were analyzed for each treatment energy. RESULTS The study revealed a dose-dependent response, with tendons rupturing in over 50% of cases when energy delivery exceeded 1000J and 100% disruption at energy levels beyond 2000J. The achieved temperatures during MRgFUS were directly proportional to energy delivery. The highest recorded temperature was 56.8°C ± 9.34 (3000J), while the lowest recorded temperate was 18.6°C ± 0.6 (control). The Young's modulus was highest in the control group (47.3 MPa ± 6.5) and lowest in the 3000J group (13.2 MPa ± 5.9). There was no statistically significant difference in ultimate strength between treatment groups. CONCLUSION This study establishes crucial thresholds for reliable and repeatable disruption of tendons, laying the groundwork for future in vivo optimization. The findings prompt further exploration of MRgFUS as a non-invasive modality for tendon disruption, offering hope for improved outcomes in patients with musculotendinous contractures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Unni Narayanan
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam C Waspe
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - James M Drake
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Lin AC, Pirrung F, Niestrawska JA, Ondruschka B, Pinter G, Henyš P, Hammer N. Shape or size matters? Towards standard reporting of tensile testing parameters for human soft tissues: systematic review and finite element analysis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1368383. [PMID: 38600944 PMCID: PMC11005100 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1368383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Material properties of soft-tissue samples are often derived through uniaxial tensile testing. For engineering materials, testing parameters (e.g., sample geometries and clamping conditions) are described by international standards; for biological tissues, such standards do not exist. To investigate what testing parameters have been reported for tensile testing of human soft-tissue samples, a systematic review of the literature was performed using PRISMA guidelines. Soft tissues are described as anisotropic and/or hyperelastic. Thus, we explored how the retrieved parameters compared against standards for engineering materials of similar characteristics. All research articles published in English, with an Abstract, and before 1 January 2023 were retrieved from databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and BASE. After screening of articles based on search terms and exclusion criteria, a total 1,096 articles were assessed for eligibility, from which 361 studies were retrieved and included in this review. We found that a non-tapered shape is most common (209 of 361), followed by a tapered sample shape (92 of 361). However, clamping conditions varied and were underreported (156 of 361). As a preliminary attempt to explore how the retrieved parameters might influence the stress distribution under tensile loading, a pilot study was performed using finite element analysis (FEA) and constitutive modeling for a clamped sample of little or no fiber dispersion. The preliminary FE simulation results might suggest the hypothesis that different sample geometries could have a profound influence on the stress-distribution under tensile loading. However, no conclusions can be drawn from these simulations, and future studies should involve exploring different sample geometries under different computational models and sample parameters (such as fiber dispersion and clamping effects). Taken together, reporting and choice of testing parameters remain as challenges, and as such, recommendations towards standard reporting of uniaxial tensile testing parameters for human soft tissues are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin C. Lin
- Division of Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Felix Pirrung
- Division of Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Justyna A. Niestrawska
- Division of Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Benjamin Ondruschka
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerald Pinter
- Institute of Materials Science and Testing of Polymers, Montanuniversität Leoben, Leoben, Austria
| | - Petr Henyš
- Institute of New Technologies and Applied Informatics, Faculty of Mechatronics, Informatics and Interdisciplinary Studies, Technical University of Liberec, Liberec, Czechia
| | - Niels Hammer
- Division of Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Forming Tools, Division of Biomechatronics, Dresden, Germany
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Lake SP, Snedeker JG, Wang VM, Awad H, Screen HRC, Thomopoulos S. Guidelines for ex vivo mechanical testing of tendon. J Orthop Res 2023; 41:2105-2113. [PMID: 37312619 PMCID: PMC10528429 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Tendons are critical for the biomechanical function of joints. Tendons connect muscles to bones and allow for the transmission of muscle forces to facilitate joint motion. Therefore, characterizing the tensile mechanical properties of tendons is important for the assessment of functional tendon health and efficacy of treatments for acute and chronic injuries. In this guidelines paper, we review methodological considerations, testing protocols, and key outcome measures for mechanical testing of tendons. The goal of the paper is to present a simple set of guidelines to the nonexpert seeking to perform tendon mechanical tests. The suggested approaches provide rigorous and consistent methodologies for standardized biomechanical characterization of tendon and reporting requirements across laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer P. Lake
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | - Vincent M. Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Hani Awad
- Department of Orthopaedics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Hazel R. C. Screen
- School of Engineering & Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stavros Thomopoulos
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Dabrowska S, Ekiert-Radecka M, Karbowniczek J, Weglarz WP, Heljak M, Lojkowski M, Obuchowicz R, Swieszkowski W, Mlyniec A. Calcification alters the viscoelastic properties of tendon fascicle bundles depending on matrix content. Acta Biomater 2023; 166:360-374. [PMID: 37172636 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.05.010] [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: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Tendon fascicle bundles are often used as biological grafts and thus must meet certain quality requirements, such as excluding calcification, which alters the biomechanical properties of soft tissues. In this work, we investigate the influence of early-stage calcification on the mechanical and structural properties of tendon fascicle bundles with varying matrix content. The calcification process was modeled using sample incubation in concentrated simulated body fluid. Mechanical and structural properties were investigated using uniaxial tests with relaxation periods, dynamic mechanical analysis, as well as magnetic resonance imaging and atomic force microscopy. Mechanical tests showed that the initial phase of calcification causes an increase in the elasticity, storage, and loss modulus, as well as a drop in the normalized value of hysteresis. Further calcification of the samples results in decreased modulus of elasticity and a slight increase in the normalized value of hysteresis. Analysis via MRI and scanning electron microscopy showed that incubation alters fibrillar relationships within the tendon structure and the flow of body fluids. In the initial stage of calcification, calcium phosphate crystals are barely visible; however, extending the incubation time for the next 14 days results in the appearance of calcium phosphate crystals within the tendon structure and leads to damage in its structure. Our results show that the calcification process modifies the collagen-matrix relationships and leads to a change in their mechanical properties. These findings will help to understand the pathogenesis of clinical conditions caused by calcification process, leading to the development of effective treatments for these conditions. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study investigates how calcium mineral deposition in tendons affects their mechanical response and which processes are responsible for this phenomenon. By analyzing the elastic and viscoelastic properties of animal fascicle bundles affected by calcification induced via incubation in concentrated simulated body fluid, the study sheds light on the relationship between structural and biochemical changes in tendons and their altered mechanical response. This understanding is crucial for optimizing tendinopathy treatment and preventing tendon injury. The findings provide insights into the calcification pathway and its resulting changes in the biomechanical behaviors of affected tendons, which have been previously unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Dabrowska
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Martyna Ekiert-Radecka
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Joanna Karbowniczek
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Metals Engineering and Industrial Computer Science, Krakow, Poland.
| | | | - Marcin Heljak
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Maciej Lojkowski
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Warsaw, Poland; Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Rafal Obuchowicz
- Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum, Department of Radiology, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Wojciech Swieszkowski
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Mlyniec
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Krakow, Poland.
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Furukawa T, Kurosawa T, Mifune Y, Inui A, Nishimoto H, Ueda Y, Kataoka T, Yamaura K, Mukohara S, Yoshikawa T, Shinohara I, Kato T, Tanaka S, Kusunose M, Hoshino Y, Matsushita T, Kuroda R. Elicitation of Inhibitory Effects for AGE-Induced Oxidative Stress in Rotator Cuff-Derived Cells by Apocynin. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:3434-3445. [PMID: 37185749 PMCID: PMC10137139 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45040225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) play a critical supportive role during musculoskeletal disorders via glycosylation and oxidative stress. Though apocynin, identified as a potent and selective inhibitor of NADPH oxidase, has been reported to be involved in pathogen-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), its role in age-related rotator cuff degeneration has not been well clarified. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the in vitro effects of apocynin on human rotator cuff-derived cells. Twelve patients with rotator cuff tears (RCTs) participated in the study. Supraspinatus tendons from patients with RCTs were collected and cultured. After the preparation of RC-derived cells, they were divided into four groups (control group, control + apocynin group, AGEs group, AGEs + apocynin group), and gene marker expression, cell viability, and intracellular ROS production were evaluated. The gene expression of NOX, IL-6, and the receptor for AGEs (RAGE) was significantly decreased by apocynin. We also examined the effect of apocynin in vitro. The results showed that ROS induction and increasing apoptotic cells after treatment of AGEs were significantly decreased, and cell viability increased considerably. These results suggest that apocynin can effectively reduce AGE-induced oxidative stress by inhibiting NOX activation. Thus, apocynin is a potential prodrug in preventing degenerative changes of the rotor cuff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Furukawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takashi Kurosawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Yutaka Mifune
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Atsuyuki Inui
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Hanako Nishimoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ueda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kataoka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Kohei Yamaura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Shintaro Mukohara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Tomoya Yoshikawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Issei Shinohara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Kato
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Shuya Tanaka
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Masaya Kusunose
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Yuichi Hoshino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takehiko Matsushita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Kuroda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-2 Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Hyogo, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
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Importance of experimental evaluation of structural parameters for constitutive modelling of aorta. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2023; 138:105615. [PMID: 36512975 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The study compares stresses and strains in the aortic wall derived using different constitutive models for various stress-strain conditions. Structure-based constitutive models with two fibre families with (GOH) and without (HGO) dispersion of collagen fibres are compared. The constitutive models were fitted to data from equibiaxial tension tests of two separated layers of the porcine aortic wall. The initial fit was evaluated with unrestricted parameters and subsequently, the mean angles of the fibre families and the angular dispersion were fixed to the values obtained from histology. Surprisingly, none of the tested models was capable to provide a good quality fit with histologically obtained structural parameters. Fitting the HGO model to experimental data resulted in two fibre families under angles close to ±45°, while the GOH model resulted in a nearly isotropic fibre distribution. These results indicate that both of these models suffer from the absence of isotropic strain stiffening. After having modified both models with corresponding additional members based on the Yeoh model of matrix, we obtained a perfect fit to the measured data while keeping the structural histology-based parameters. Finally, significant differences in compliance and resulting stresses and strains between different models are shown by means of simulations of uniaxial tension test, equibiaxial tension tests and inflation of the aorta.
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Kalemba M, Ekiert-Radecka M, Wajdzik M, Mlyniec A. An in-House System for the Precise Measurement of Electrical Potentials and Mechanical Properties of Soft Tissues: Design and Validation Using Adult Mammalian Tendon Fascicle Bundles. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15134444. [PMID: 35806569 PMCID: PMC9267749 DOI: 10.3390/ma15134444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Tissues, such as skin, bones, and tendons, exhibit a piezoelectric effect, which may be an important phenomenon in terms of tissue renewal and regeneration as well as the possibility of modifying their mechanical behavior. In this article, we present the design and development of an in-house system for the precise measurement of electrical potentials and mechanical properties of tendons. The system was validated using tendon fascicle bundles derived from positional as well as energy-storing tendons from various adult mammals (porcine, bovine, and deer samples). The presented system is able to capture changes in elastic and viscoelastic properties of tissue as well as its time–voltage response and, thus, may be used in a broad spectrum of future studies to uncover factors influencing piezoelectric phenomena in tendons. This, in turn, will help to optimize current methods used in physiotherapy and postoperative treatment for effective tendon recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Kalemba
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (M.K.); (M.E.-R.)
| | - Martyna Ekiert-Radecka
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (M.K.); (M.E.-R.)
| | - Marek Wajdzik
- Faculty of Forestry, University of Agriculture, Al. 29-listopada 46, 31-425 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Andrzej Mlyniec
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland; (M.K.); (M.E.-R.)
- Correspondence:
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Rehydration of the Tendon Fascicle Bundles Using Simulated Body Fluid Ensures Stable Mechanical Properties of the Samples. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15093033. [PMID: 35591368 PMCID: PMC9104251 DOI: 10.3390/ma15093033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we investigate the influence of dehydration and subsequent rehydration of tendon fascicle bundles on their structural and mechanical properties by using distilled water, 0.9% NaCl, 10% NaCl, SBF, and double concentrated SBF (SBFx2). The properties of tendon fascicle bundles were investigated by means of uniaxial tests with relaxation periods and hysteresis for samples with various interfascicular matrix content, dissected from the anterior and posterior areas of bovine tendon. Uniaxial tests with relaxation periods and analysis of sample geometry and weight showed that dehydration alters the modulus of elasticity dependent on the interfascicular matrix content and influences the viscoelastic properties of tendon fascicle bundles. Tensile and relaxation tests revealed that changes resulting from excessive sample drying can be reversed by rehydration in an SBF bath solution for elastic strain range above the toe region. Rehydration in SBF solution led to minor differences in mechanical properties when compared to control samples. Moreover, anterior samples with greater interfascicular matrix content, despite their lower stiffness, are less sensitive to sample drying. The obtained results allow us to limit the discrepancies in the measurement of mechanical properties of wet biological samples and can be useful to researchers investigating soft tissue mechanics and the stability of transplant materials.
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Mechanical Properties of Animal Tendons: A Review and Comparative Study for the Identification of the Most Suitable Human Tendon Surrogates. Processes (Basel) 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/pr10030485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanical response of a tendon to load is strictly related to its complex and highly organized hierarchical structure, which ranges from the nano- to macroscale. In a broader context, the mechanical properties of tendons during tensile tests are affected by several distinct factors, due in part to tendon nature (anatomical site, age, training, injury, etc.) but also depending on the experimental setup and settings. This work aimed to present a systematic review of the mechanical properties of tendons reported in the scientific literature by considering different anatomical regions in humans and several animal species (horse, cow, swine, sheep, rabbit, dog, rat, mouse, and foal). This study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method. The literature research was conducted via Google Scholar, PubMed, PicoPolito (Politecnico di Torino’s online catalogue), and Science Direct. Sixty studies were selected and analyzed. The structural and mechanical properties described in different animal species were reported and summarized in tables. Only the results from studies reporting the strain rate parameter were considered for the comparison with human tendons, as they were deemed more reliable. Our findings showed similarities between animal and human tendons that should be considered in biomechanical evaluation. An additional analysis of the effects of different strain rates showed the influence of this parameter.
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Navarro J, Korcari A, Nguyen P, Bah I, AlKhalifa A, Fink S, Buckley M, Kuo CK. Method Development and Characterization of Chick Embryo Tendon Mechanical Properties. J Biomech 2022; 133:110970. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.110970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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12
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May S, Locke S, Kingsley M. Gastrocnemius Muscle Architecture in Elite Basketballers and Cyclists: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:768846. [PMID: 34950871 PMCID: PMC8688802 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.768846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Eccentric and concentric actions produce distinct mechanical stimuli and result in different adaptations in skeletal muscle architecture. Cycling predominantly involves concentric activity of the gastrocnemius muscles, while playing basketball requires both concentric and eccentric actions to support running, jumping, and landing. The aim of this study was to examine differences in the architecture of gastrocnemius medialis (GM) and gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) between elite basketballers and cyclists. A trained sonographer obtained three B-mode ultrasound images from GM and GL muscles in 44 athletes (25 basketballers and 19 cyclists; 24 ± 5 years of age). The images were digitized and average fascicle length (FL), pennation angle (θ), and muscle thickness were calculated from three images per muscle. The ratio of FL to tibial length (FL/TL) and muscle thickness to tibial length (MT/TL) was also calculated to account for the potential scaling effect of stature. In males, no significant differences were identified between the athletic groups in all parameters in the GM, but a significant difference existed in muscle thickness in the GL. In basketballers, GL was 2.5 mm thicker (95% CI: 0.7-4.3 mm, p = 0.011) on the left side and 2.6 mm thicker (95% CI: 0.6-5.7 mm, p = 0.012) on the right side; however, these differences were not significant when stature was accounted for (MT/TL). In females, significant differences existed in the GM for all parameters including FL/TL and MT/TL. Female cyclists had longer FL in both limbs (MD: 11.2 and 11.3 mm), narrower θ (MD: 2.1 and 1.8°), and thicker muscles (MD: 2.1 and 2.5 mm). For the GL, female cyclists had significantly longer FL (MD: 5.2 and 5.8 mm) and narrower θ (MD: 1.7 and 2.3°) in both limbs; no differences were observed in absolute muscle thickness or MT/TL ratio. Differences in gastrocnemius muscle architecture were observed between female cyclists and basketballers, but not between males. These findings suggest that participation in sport-specific training might influence gastrocnemius muscle architecture in elite female athletes; however, it remains unclear as to whether gastrocnemius architecture is systematically influenced by the different modes of muscle activation between these respective sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha May
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
| | - Simon Locke
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Kingsley
- Holsworth Research Initiative, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia.,Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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13
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Perevoshchikova N, Moerman KM, Akhbari B, Bindra R, Maharaj JN, Lloyd DG, Gomez Cerezo M, Carr A, Vaquette C, Saxby DJ. Finite element analysis of the performance of additively manufactured scaffolds for scapholunate ligament reconstruction. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256528. [PMID: 34797871 PMCID: PMC8604338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rupture of the scapholunate interosseous ligament can cause the dissociation of scaphoid and lunate bones, resulting in impaired wrist function. Current treatments (e.g., tendon-based surgical reconstruction, screw-based fixation, fusion, or carpectomy) may restore wrist stability, but do not address regeneration of the ruptured ligament, and may result in wrist functional limitations and osteoarthritis. Recently a novel multiphasic bone-ligament-bone scaffold was proposed, which aims to reconstruct the ruptured ligament, and which can be 3D-printed using medical-grade polycaprolactone. This scaffold is composed of a central ligament-scaffold section and features a bone attachment terminal at either end. Since the ligament-scaffold is the primary load bearing structure during physiological wrist motion, its geometry, mechanical properties, and the surgical placement of the scaffold are critical for performance optimisation. This study presents a patient-specific computational biomechanical evaluation of the effect of scaffold length, and positioning of the bone attachment sites. Through segmentation and image processing of medical image data for natural wrist motion, detailed 3D geometries as well as patient-specific physiological wrist motion could be derived. This data formed the input for detailed finite element analysis, enabling computational of scaffold stress and strain distributions, which are key predictors of scaffold structural integrity. The computational analysis demonstrated that longer scaffolds present reduced peak scaffold stresses and a more homogeneous stress state compared to shorter scaffolds. Furthermore, it was found that scaffolds attached at proximal sites experience lower stresses than those attached at distal sites. However, scaffold length, rather than bone terminal location, most strongly influences peak stress. For each scaffold terminal placement configuration, a basic metric was computed indicative of bone fracture risk. This metric was the minimum distance from the bone surface to the internal scaffold bone terminal. Analysis of this minimum bone thickness data confirmed further optimisation of terminal locations is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Perevoshchikova
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Kevin M. Moerman
- Biomechanics Research Centre, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Center for Extreme Bionics at the Media Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
| | - Bardiya Akhbari
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Randy Bindra
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Jayishni N. Maharaj
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - David G. Lloyd
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Amelia Carr
- School of Dentistry, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Cedryck Vaquette
- School of Dentistry, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - David J. Saxby
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
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May S, Locke S, Kingsley M. Reliability of ultrasonographic measurement of muscle architecture of the gastrocnemius medialis and gastrocnemius lateralis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258014. [PMID: 34587209 PMCID: PMC8480904 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultrasonography is widely used to measure gastrocnemius muscle architecture; however, it is unclear if values obtained from digitised images are sensitive enough to track architectural responses to clinical interventions. The purpose of this study was to explore the reliability and determine the minimal detectable change (MDC) of gastrocnemius medialis (GM) and gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) muscle architecture using ultrasound in a clinical setting. A trained sonographer obtained three B-mode images from each of the GM and GL muscles in 87 volunteers (44 males, 43 females; 22±9 years of age) on two separate occasions. Three independent investigators received training, then digitised the images to determine intra-rater, inter-rater, and test-retest reliability for fascicle length (FL), pennation angle (θ) and muscle thickness. Median FL, θ, and muscle thickness for GM and GL were 53.6–55.7 mm and 65.8–69.3 mm, 18.7–19.5° and 11.9–12.5°, and 12.8–13.2 mm and 15.9–16.9 mm, respectively. Intra- and inter-rater reliability of manual digitisation was excellent for all parameters. Test-retest reliability was moderate to excellent with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values ≥0.80 for FL, ≥0.61 for θ, and ≥0.81 for muscle thickness, in both GM and GL. The respective MDC for GM and GL FL, θ, and muscle thickness was ≤12.1 mm and ≤18.00 mm, ≤6.4° and ≤4.2°, and ≤3.2 mm and ≤3.1 mm. Although reliable, the relatively large MDC suggest that clinically derived ultrasound measurements of muscle architecture in GM and GL are more likely to be useful to detect differences between populations than to detect changes in muscle architecture following interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha May
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon Locke
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Kingsley
- Holsworth Research Initiative, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Exercise Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Ekiert M, Karbowniczek J, Stachewicz U, Mlyniec A. The effect of multiple freeze-thaw cycles on the viscoelastic properties and microstructure of bovine superficial digital flexor tendon. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2021; 120:104582. [PMID: 34090220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2021.104582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The most common injuries of the human musculoskeletal system are related to soft tissue structures such as tendons or ligaments. To repair torn structures, surgical intervention and application of a biological or synthetic graft may be required. A typical procedure for the processing, storage, and distribution of soft tissue grafts involves at least two freezing/thawing (F/T) cycles. Even though repeated F/T cycles decrease the mechanical performance and change the structure of tendons, it is unclear whether there exists a maximum number of F/T cycles above which tendons should not be approved for use as a tissue allograft. To fill this research gap, we present an ex vivo study on the effects of repetitive F/T cycles on the biomechanical stability of bovine superficial digital flexor tendon tissue. Using mechanical testing supported with scanning electron microscopy imaging, we show that multiple F/T cycles affect the viscoelastic and structural properties of tissue by significantly reducing its tensile modulus after the 3rd or 4th F/T cycle (depending on the strain range), stress drop during relaxation after the 8th F/T cycle (regardless the strain values), mechanical hysteresis after the 10th F/T cycle, and by causing a significant decrease in collagen fibril diameter. Our results provide a deeper insight into understanding the mechanisms responsible for tissue damage during multiple F/T cycles, and thus, may be useful for the future optimization of tissue storage protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Ekiert
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanics and Robotics, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Joanna Karbowniczek
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Metals Engineering and Industrial Computer Science, Krakow, Poland
| | - Urszula Stachewicz
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Metals Engineering and Industrial Computer Science, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mlyniec
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanics and Robotics, Krakow, Poland
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16
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Ekiert M, Tomaszewski KA, Mlyniec A. The differences in viscoelastic properties of subtendons result from the anatomical tripartite structure of human Achilles tendon - ex vivo experimental study and modeling. Acta Biomater 2021; 125:138-153. [PMID: 33677161 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The human Achilles tendon (AT) is a hierarchical structure macroscopically composed of three subtendons originating from the soleus (SOL) and gastrocnemius (GL, GM) muscles. According to recent reports, the divisible structure of the AT together with diverse material properties of its subtendons are suspected as a probable cause of non-homogeneous stress and strain distribution occurring in loaded AT. Despite numerous investigations on human AT, there is still relatively little knowledge regarding mechanical properties of subtendon-level hierarchy, which is crucial in fully understanding the multiscale relationship which governs tendon mechanics. In this paper we present the first ex vivo study conducted on SOL, GL, and GM subtendons of human AT. We investigate differences in viscoelastic properties of SOL, GM, and GL subtendons in terms of tensile modulus, mechanical hysteresis as well as stress relaxation observed at two different values of strain. Our results show that the most significant differences in mechanical properties exist between subtendon attached to the soleus muscle (SOL) and subtendons originating from the two heads of the gastrocnemius muscle (GM and GL). We used our experimental results to calibrate three different constitutive models: the hyperelastic Yeoh model with power-law flow, the microstructurally motivated Holzapfel-Gasser-Ogden model enhanced with strain-dependent Berström-Boyce flow and the phenomenological elasto-viscoplastic Arruda-Boyce-based model with strain-dependent Berström-Boyce flow supplemented with component representing matrix response. All calibrated models may be applied to commercial FEA software as a sufficient solution for rapid mechanical response modeling of human AT subtendons or for the purpose of future development of comprehensive patient-specific models of human lower limbs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The divisible structure of the Achilles tendon together with diverse material properties of its subtendons are suspected as a probable cause of non-homogeneous stress and strain distribution occurring in loaded Achilles tendon. Despite numerous investigations on mechanical properties of Achilles tendon, there is still relatively little knowledge regarding mechanical properties of subtendon-level hierarchy, which is crucial in fully understanding the multiscale relationship which governs tendon mechanics. This study is the first reported ex vivo investigation conducted on SOL, GL, and GM human Achilles subtendons. We investigate differences in the viscoelastic properties of individual subtendons and demonstrate that the observed differences should be considered as muscle-dependent. Our experimental research is supported with a modeling study in which we calibrate three different constitutive models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Ekiert
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Mickiewicza 30 Av., Krakow 30-059, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof A Tomaszewski
- Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gustawa Herlinga-Grudzinskiego 1, Krakow 30-705, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mlyniec
- AGH University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, Mickiewicza 30 Av., Krakow 30-059, Poland
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Godinho MS, Thorpe CT, Greenwald SE, Screen HR. Elastase treatment of tendon specifically impacts the mechanical properties of the interfascicular matrix. Acta Biomater 2021; 123:187-196. [PMID: 33508509 PMCID: PMC7935645 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The tendon interfascicular matrix (IFM) binds tendon fascicles together. As a result of its low stiffness behaviour under small loads, it enables non-uniform loading and increased overall extensibility of tendon by facilitating fascicle sliding. This function is particularly important in energy storing tendons, with previous studies demonstrating enhanced extensibility, recovery and fatigue resistance in the IFM of energy storing compared to positional tendons. However, the compositional specialisations within the IFM that confer this behaviour remain to be elucidated. It is well established that the IFM is rich in elastin, therefore we sought to test the hypothesis that elastin depletion (following elastase treatment) will significantly impact IFM, but not fascicle, mechanical properties, reducing IFM resilience in all samples, but to a greater extent in younger tendons, which have a higher elastin content. Using a combination of quasi-static and fatigue testing, and optical imaging, we confirmed our hypothesis, demonstrating that elastin depletion resulted in significant decreases in IFM viscoelasticity, fatigue resistance and recoverability compared to untreated samples, with no significant changes to fascicle mechanics. Ageing had little effect on fascicle or IFM response to elastase treatment. This study offers a first insight into the functional importance of elastin in regional specific tendon mechanics. It highlights the important contribution of elastin to IFM mechanical properties, demonstrating that maintenance of a functional elastin network within the IFM is essential to maintain IFM and thus tendon integrity. Statement of significance Developing effective treatments or preventative measures for musculoskeletal tissue injuries necessitates the understanding of healthy tissue function and mechanics. By establishing the contribution of specific proteins to tissue mechanical behaviour, key targets for therapeutics can be identified. Tendon injury is increasingly prevalent and chronically debilitating, with no effective treatments available. Here, we investigate how elastin modulates tendon mechanical behaviour, using enzymatic digestion combined with local mechanical characterisation, and demonstrate for the first time that removing elastin from tendon affects the mechanical properties of the interfascicular matrix specifically, resulting in decreased recoverability and fatigue resistance. These findings provide a new level of insight into tendon hierarchical mechanics, important for directing development of novel therapeutics for tendon injury.
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18
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Fiber splay precludes the direct identification of ligament material properties: Implications for ACL graft selection. J Biomech 2020; 113:110104. [PMID: 33161304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries typically require surgical reconstruction to restore adequate knee stability. The middle third of an injured patient's patellar tendon (PT) is a commonly used graft for ACL reconstruction. However, many clinicians and researchers question whether it is the best option, as several studies have suggested that it is a stiffer material than the ACL. Still, there is little to no consensus on even the most basic material property of ligaments/tendons: the tangent modulus in the fiber direction, or slope of the linear portion of the uniaxial stress-strain curve. In this study, we investigate the effect of fiber splay (the tendency of collagen fibers to spread out near the enthesis) on the apparent tangent modulus. Using a simplified theoretical model, we establish a quantity we call the splay ratio, which describes the relationship between splay geometry and the apparent tangent modulus. We then more rigorously investigate the effect of the splay ratio on the apparent tangent modulus of the ovine PT and anteromedial and posterolateral regions of the ACL using experimental and computational methods. Both approaches confirmed that splay geometry significantly affects the apparent material behavior. Because true material properties are independent of geometry, we conclude that the macroscopic response of ligaments and tendons is not sufficient for the characterization of their material properties, but rather is reflective of both material and structural properties. We further conclude that the PT is probably not a stiffer material than ACL, but that the PT graft is likely a stiffer structure than either ACL region.
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19
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Ge X, Zhang L, Xiang G, Hu Y, Lun D. Cross-Sectional Area Measurement Techniques of Soft Tissue: A Literature Review. Orthop Surg 2020; 12:1547-1566. [PMID: 32930465 PMCID: PMC7767688 DOI: 10.1111/os.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Evaluation of the biomechanical properties of soft tissues by measuring the stress-strain relationships has been the focus of numerous investigations. The accuracy of stress depends, in part, upon the determination of the cross-sectional area (CSA). However, the complex geometry and pliability of soft tissues, especially ligaments and tendons, make it difficult to obtain accurate CSA, and the development of CSA measurement methods of soft tissues continues. Early attempts to determine the CSA of soft tissues include gravimetric method, geometric approximation technique, area micrometer method, and microtomy technique. Since 1990, a series of new methods have emerged, including medical imaging techniques (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound imaging (USI)), laser techniques (e.g. the laser micrometer method, the linear laser scanner (LLS) technique, and the laser reflection system (LRS) method), molding techniques, and three-dimensional (3D) scanning techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao‐jing Ge
- Beijing Wonderful Biomaterials Co., Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Lei Zhang
- Beijing Wonderful Biomaterials Co., Ltd.BeijingChina
| | - Gang Xiang
- Beijing Wonderful Biomaterials Co., Ltd.BeijingChina
| | | | - Deng‐xing Lun
- Beijing Ceramic BiotechnologyBeijingChina
- Weifang People's HospitalWeifangChina
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20
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Ristaniemi A, Tanska P, Stenroth L, Finnilä MAJ, Korhonen RK. Comparison of material models for anterior cruciate ligament in tension: from poroelastic to a novel fibril-reinforced nonlinear composite model. J Biomech 2020; 114:110141. [PMID: 33302181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Computational models of the knee joint are useful for evaluating stresses and strains within the joint tissues. However, the outcome of those models is sensitive to the material model and material properties chosen for ligaments, the collagen reinforced tissues connecting bone to bone. The purpose of this study was to investigate different compositionally motivated material models and further to develop a model that can accurately reproduce experimentally measured stress-relaxation data of bovine anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Tensile testing samples were extracted from ACLs of bovine knee joints (N = 10) and subjected to a three-step stress-relaxation test at the toe region. Data from the experiments was averaged and one average finite element model was generated to replicate the experiment. Poroelastic and different fibril-reinforced poro(visco)elastic material models were applied, and their material parameters were optimized to reproduce the experimental force-time response. Material models with only fluid flow mediated relaxation were not able to capture the stress-relaxation behavior (R2 = 0.806, 0.803 and 0.938). The inclusion of the viscoelasticity of the fibrillar network improved the model prediction (R2 = 0.978 and 0.976), but the complex stress-relaxation behavior was best captured by a poroelastic model with a nonlinear two-relaxation-time strain-recruited viscoelastic fibrillar network (R2 = 0.997). The results suggest that in order to replicate the multi-step stress-relaxation behavior of ACL in tension, the fibrillar network formulation should include the complex nonlinear viscoelastic phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ristaniemi
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - P Tanska
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - L Stenroth
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - M A J Finnilä
- Research Unit of Medical Imaging, Physics and Technology, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - R K Korhonen
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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Peterson BE, Szczesny SE. Dependence of tendon multiscale mechanics on sample gauge length is consistent with discontinuous collagen fibrils. Acta Biomater 2020; 117:302-309. [PMID: 33010516 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.09.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
While collagen fibrils are understood to be the primary load-bearing elements in tendon, controversy still exists on how fibrils functionally transmit load from muscle to bone. Specifically, it's unclear whether fibrils are structurally continuous along the tendon length and bear load independently, or if they are discontinuous and transfer load through interfibrillar shear forces. To address this question, we investigated whether the multiscale mechanics of rat tail tendon fascicles is dependent on sample gauge length. We hypothesized that as the grip-to-grip length is reduced and approaches the length of the collagen fibrils, tendon fascicles will adopt a multiscale mechanical response consistent with structurally continuous fibrils. Our findings show that, for gauge lengths of 20 mm or greater, the local fibril strains are less than the bulk tissue strains, which can be explained by relative sliding between discontinuous collagen fibrils. In contrast, at a 5 mm gauge length, the fibril strains are equivalent to the applied tissue strains, suggesting that the collagen fibrils are structurally continuous between the grips. Additionally, the macroscale tissue modulus is increased at gauge lengths of 5 and 10 mm. Together, these data support the hypothesis that collagen fibrils in rat tail tendon fascicles are discontinuous and also suggest that their length is between 5 and 10 mm. This fundamental information regarding tendon structure-function relationships underscores the importance of the tissue components that transmit load between fibrils and is critical for understanding tendon pathology as well as establishing structural benchmarks for suitable tissue engineered replacements.
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22
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Dabrowska S, Ekiert M, Wojcik K, Kalemba M, Mlyniec A. A 3D Scanning System for Inverse Analysis of Moist Biological Samples: Design and Validation Using Tendon Fascicle Bundles. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20143847. [PMID: 32664202 PMCID: PMC7412083 DOI: 10.3390/s20143847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In this article, we present the design and validation of a non-contact scanning system for the development of a three-dimensional (3D) model of moist biological samples. Due to the irregular shapes and low stiffness of soft tissue samples, the use of a non-contact, reliable geometry scanning system with good accuracy and repeatability is required. We propose a reliable 3D scanning system consisting of a blue light profile sensor, stationary and rotating frames with stepper motors, gears and a five-phase stepping motor unit, single-axis robot, control system, and replaceable sample grips, which once mounted onto the sample, are used for both scanning and mechanical tests. The proposed system was validated by comparison of the cross-sectional areas calculated based on 3D models, digital caliper, and vision-based methods. Validation was done on regularly-shaped samples, a wooden twig, as well as tendon fascicle bundles. The 3D profiles were used for the development of the 3D computational model of the sample, including surface concavities. Our system allowed for 3D model development of samples with a relative error of less than 1.2% and high repeatability in approximately three minutes. This was crucial for the extraction of the mechanical properties and subsequent inverse analysis, enabling the calibration of complex material models.
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Stoiber M, Grasl C, Frieberger K, Moscato F, Bergmeister H, Schima H. Impact of the testing protocol on the mechanical characterization of small diameter electrospun vascular grafts. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2020; 104:103652. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.103652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Rosario MV, Roberts TJ. Loading Rate Has Little Influence on Tendon Fascicle Mechanics. Front Physiol 2020; 11:255. [PMID: 32265742 PMCID: PMC7105874 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanically, tendons behave like springs and store energy by stretching in proportion to applied stress. This relationship is potentially modified by the rate at which stress is applied, a phenomenon known as viscosity. Viscoelasticity, the combined effects of elasticity and viscosity, can affect maximum strain, the amount of stored energy, and the proportion of energy recovered (resilience). Previous studies of tendons have investigated the functional effects of viscoelasticity, but not at the intermediate durations of loading that are known to occur in fast locomotor events. In this study, we isolated tendon fascicles from rat tails and performed force-controlled tensile tests at rates between ∼10 MPa s–1 to ∼80 MPa s–1. At high rates of applied stress, we found that tendon fascicles strained less, stored less energy, and were more resilient than at low rates of stress (p = 0.007, p = 0.040, and p = 0.004, respectively). The measured changes, however, were very small across the range of strain rates studied. For example, the average strain for the slowest loading rate was 0.637% while it was 0.614% for the fastest loading. We conclude that although there is a measurable effect of loading rate on tendon mechanics, the effect is small and can be largely ignored in the context of muscle-actuated locomotion, with the possible exception of extreme muscle-tendon morphologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael V Rosario
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Biology, West Chester University, West Chester, PA, United States
| | - Thomas J Roberts
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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Yamazaki T, Matsuura Y, Suzuki T, Ohtori S. Measurement of the Material Properties of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex. JOURNAL OF HAND SURGERY GLOBAL ONLINE 2020; 2:90-93. [PMID: 35415484 PMCID: PMC8991837 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsg.2020.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) serves to stabilize the distal radioulnar joint, but the stress distribution within the TFCC under dynamic loading is unknown. Finite element analysis (FEM) can be used to investigate the stress distribution, but its accuracy depends on knowing the material properties of the TFCC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the material properties of the TFCC using cadaveric specimens. Methods We obtained 12 upper limbs (6 right and 6 left) from 6 fresh-frozen cadavers (3 women and 3 men). Average age at death was 78.3 years (range, 69–87 years). Using a dorsal approach, we dissected each component of the TFCC. We performed tensile and compressive testing with a mechanical testing machine. Young's modulus was calculated from the slope of the linear part of the stress–strain curve. Results The Young's modulus was 7.0 ± 2.4 MPa in the volar component, 8.7 ± 2.3 MPa in the ulnar component, 5.4 ± 1.7 MPa in the dorsal component, 6.1 ± 3.3 MPa in the fibers of the fovea, and 8.1 ± 1.2 MPa in the articular disc. Conclusions The Young’s modulus of each component was about 5 to 9 MPa. Specimens used in this study were from elderly individuals, and care must be taken when using these values for FEM. Clinical relevance These data will be used to perform FEM to predict the mechanical behavior of the ulnar side of the wrist and the stress distribution applied to the TFCC, the distal radioulnar joint, and the ulnar head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Yamazaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduated School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Corresponding author: Takahiro Yamazaki, MD, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduated School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Yusuke Matsuura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduated School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takane Suzuki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduated School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Seiji Ohtori
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduated School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Aeberhard PA, Grognuz A, Peneveyre C, McCallin S, Hirt-Burri N, Antons J, Pioletti D, Raffoul W, Applegate LA. Efficient decellularization of equine tendon with preserved biomechanical properties and cytocompatibility for human tendon surgery indications. Artif Organs 2019; 44:E161-E171. [PMID: 31609006 PMCID: PMC7154770 DOI: 10.1111/aor.13581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chronic and acute tendon injuries are frequent afflictions, for which treatment is often long and unsatisfactory. When facing extended injuries, matrices and scaffolds with sufficient biomechanical properties are required for surgical repair and could additionally serve as supports for cellular therapies to improve healing. In this study, protocols of either commonly used detergents only (SDS 1%, Triton 1%, TBP 1%, and Tween‐20 1%) or a combination of freeze/thaw (F/T) cycles with decellularization agents (NaCl 1M, ddH2O) were evaluated for the decellularization of horse equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) for hand flexor or extensor tendon reconstruction. Decellularization efficiency was assessed microscopically by histological staining (HE, DAPI) and DNA quantification. Macroscopical structure and biomechanical integrity of the tendon matrices were further assessed by gross observation, histological staining (SR), and mechanical testing (ultimate strain and stress, Young’s modulus, energy to failure) for select protocols. Decellularization with hypertonic NaCl 1M in association with F/T cycles produced the most robust tendon matrices, which were nontoxic after 10 days for subsequent recellularization with human fetal progenitor tendon cells (hFPTs). This standardized protocol uses a less aggressive decellularization agent than current practice, which allows subsequent reseeding with allogenic cells, therefore making them very suitable and bioengineered tendon matrices for human tendon reconstruction in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Arnaud Aeberhard
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anthony Grognuz
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cédric Peneveyre
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Shawna McCallin
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Hirt-Burri
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jens Antons
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Laboratory of Biomechanical Orthopedics, Institute of Bioengineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Pioletti
- Laboratory of Biomechanical Orthopedics, Institute of Bioengineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Wassim Raffoul
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lee Ann Applegate
- Unit of Regenerative Therapy, Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Javidi M, McGowan CP, Schiele NR, Lin DC. Tendons from kangaroo rats are exceptionally strong and tough. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8196. [PMID: 31160640 PMCID: PMC6546749 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44671-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendons must be able to withstand the forces generated by muscles and not fail. Accordingly, a previous comparative analysis across species has shown that tendon strength (i.e., failure stress) increases for larger species. In addition, the elastic modulus increases proportionally to the strength, demonstrating that the two properties co-vary. However, some species may need specially adapted tendons to support high performance motor activities, such as sprinting and jumping. Our objective was to determine if the tendons of kangaroo rats (k-rat), small bipedal animals that can jump as high as ten times their hip height, are an exception to the linear relationship between elastic modulus and strength. We measured and compared the material properties of tendons from k-rat ankle extensor muscles to those of similarly sized white rats. The elastic moduli of k-rat and rat tendons were not different, but k-rat tendon failure stresses were much larger than the rat values (nearly 2 times larger), as were toughness (over 2.5 times larger) and ultimate strain (over 1.5 times longer). These results support the hypothesis that the tendons from k-rats are specially adapted for high motor performance, and k-rat tendon could be a novel model for improving tissue engineered tendon replacements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Javidi
- Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Washington State University, PO Box 646515, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Craig P McGowan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive, MS 3051, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA.,WWAMI Medical Education Program, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive, MS 4207, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA.,Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Washington State University, PO Box 646515, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Nathan R Schiele
- Department of Biological Engineering, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS 0904, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA
| | - David C Lin
- Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Washington State University, PO Box 646515, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA. .,Washington Center for Muscle Biology, Washington State University, PO Box 646515, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA. .,Department of Integrative Physiology and Neuroscience, Washington State University, PO Box 647620, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA.
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Safa B, Lee A, Santare MH, Elliott DM. Evaluating Plastic Deformation and Damage as Potential Mechanisms for Tendon Inelasticity using a Reactive Modeling Framework. J Biomech Eng 2019; 141:2731931. [PMID: 31004138 DOI: 10.1115/1.4043520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inelastic behaviors, such as softening, a progressive decrease in modulus before failure, occur in tendon and are important aspect in degeneration and tendinopathy. These inelastic behaviors are generally attributed to two potential mechanisms: plastic deformation and damage. However, it is not clear which is primarily responsible. In this study, we evaluated these potential mechanisms of tendon inelasticity by using a recently developed reactive inelasticity model (RIE), which is a structurally-inspired continuum mechanics framework that models tissue inelasticity based on the molecular bond kinetics. Using RIE, we formulated two material models, one specific to plastic deformation and the other to damage. The models were independently fit to published experimental tensile tests of rat tail tendons. We quantified the inelastic effects and compared the performance of the two models in fitting the mechanical response during loading, relaxation, unloading, and reloading phases. Additionally, we validated the models by using the resulting fit parameters to predict an independent set of experimental stress-strain curves from ramp-to-failure tests. Overall, the models were both successful in fitting the experiments and predicting the validation data. However, the results did not strongly favor one mechanism over the other. As a result, to distinguish between plastic deformation and damage, different experimental protocols will be needed. Nevertheless, these findings suggest the potential of RIE as a comprehensive framework for studying tendon inelastic behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Safa
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716
| | - Andrea Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716
| | - Michael H Santare
- ASME Fellow, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware Newark, Delaware 19716
| | - Dawn M Elliott
- ASME Fellow, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware Newark, Delaware 19716
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The paraspinal muscle-tendon system: Its paradoxical anatomy. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0214812. [PMID: 30958835 PMCID: PMC6453460 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0214812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Anatomy of the muscle-tendon system is an important component to musculoskeletal models. In particular, the cross-sectional area of belly (mCSA) and tendon (tCSA) provides information about the maximum force that a muscle may exert. The ratio of mCSA to tCSA (rCSA) demonstrates how muscle force is related to the ability to resist/transmit the force to bone. Previous anatomical studies of the lumbar paraspinal muscles (LPM) showed that their bellies have large mCSA suggesting that they are powerful muscles. Surprisingly, surgical experience shows that the tendons of the LPM are among the thinnest tendons of the body. We therefore hypothesized that traditional biomechanics of the LPM and the rCSA do not correspond for LPM. In 10 fresh-frozen old cadavers, we measured the mCSA, tCSA and rCSA of the LPM (multifidus and the erector spinae, i.e. the longissimus and the iliocostalis); then, we compared these data with those of one of the weakest muscles in the body, i.e. the extensor digitorum communis (EDC) chosen because it shares some common anatomical features with the LPM, in particular with the erector spinae. For instance, the EDC has a polyarticular course and presents long and thin effector tendons. Among the LPM, the longissimus has the greatest mean ACSA with 10.42 cm2 compared with 9.16 cm2 for the iliocostalis and 0.24 cm2 for the multifidus. Mean ACSA of the EDC was almost ten times smaller than those of erector spinae. Regarding the mean tCSA, the EDC was the largest one with 11.48 mm2 compared with 2.69 mm2 and 1.43 mm2 for the longissimus, 5.74 mm2 and 2.38 mm2for the iliocostalis and 5.28 mm2 and 4.96 mm2 for the multifidus. Mean rCSAs of the erector spinae were extremely small, ranged from 1/156 for the spinal attachment of the iliocostalis to 1/739 for the rib attachment of the longissimus that suggests that tendons are an unsuitable size to transmit the force to bone. Mean rCSA of the multifidus and the EDC were in the same range with rCSA = 1/5 and rCSA = 1/9 respectively. The rCSA of the multifidus was substantial, but its ACSA (1cm2) corresponds to low-power muscles. This paradoxical anatomy compels us to consider the biomechanics of the LPM in a different way from that of the classical “chord-like model”, i.e. the muscle belly creates a force that is applied to a bone piece through a tendon. The LPM have large contractile mass in a semi-rigid compartment inside which the pressure may increase. This result strengthens the hypothesis that high pressure and intrinsic stiffness of the LPM create two stiff bodies, closely attached to the spine thus ensuring its stabilization.
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Carniel TA, Klahr B, Fancello EA. On multiscale boundary conditions in the computational homogenization of an RVE of tendon fascicles. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2018; 91:131-138. [PMID: 30579110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2018.12.003] [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: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Present study provides a numerical investigation on multiscale boundary conditions in the computational homogenization of a representative volume element (RVE) of tendon fascicles. A three-dimensional hexagonal-helicoidal finite element RVE composed of two material phases (collagen fibers and cells) and three finite strain viscoelastic models (collagen fibrils, matrix of fibers and cells) compose the multiscale model. Due to the unusual helical geometry of the RVE, the performance of four multiscale boundary conditions is evaluated: the linear boundary displacements model, the minimally constrained model and two mixed boundary conditions allying characteristics of both, linear and minimal models. Numerical results concerning microscopic kinematic fields and macroscopic stress-strain curves point out that one of the mixed models is able to predict the expected multiscale mechanics of the RVE, presenting sound agreement with experimental facts reported in literature, for example: characteristic non-linear shape of the stress-strain curves; macroscopic energy loss by hysteresis; axial rotation of fascicles observed in tensile tests; collagen fibrils are the main load-bearing components of tendons; cells contribute neither to the stiffness nor to the macroscopic energy loss. Moreover, the multiscale model provides important insights on the micromechanics of tendon fascicles, predicting a non-homogeneous and relevant strain localization on cells, even under physiological macroscopic strain amplitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago André Carniel
- GRANTE - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Bruno Klahr
- GRANTE - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Alberto Fancello
- GRANTE - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil; LEBm - University Hospital, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
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31
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Zitnay JL, Weiss JA. Load transfer, damage, and failure in ligaments and tendons. J Orthop Res 2018; 36:3093-3104. [PMID: 30175857 PMCID: PMC6454883 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The function of ligaments and tendons is to support and transmit loads applied to the musculoskeletal system. These tissues are often able to perform their function for many decades; however, connective tissue disease and injury can compromise ligament and tendon integrity. A range of protein and non-protein constituents, combined in a complex structural hierarchy from the collagen molecule to the tissue and covering nanometer to centimeter length scales, govern tissue function, and impart characteristic non-linear material behavior. This review summarizes the structure of ligaments and tendons, the roles of their constituent components for load transfer across the hierarchy of structure, and the current understanding of how damage occurs in these tissues. Disease and injury can alter the constituent make-up and structural organization of ligaments and tendons, affecting tissue function, while also providing insight to the role and interactions of individual constituents. The studies and techniques presented here have helped to understand the relationship between tissue constituents and the physical mechanisms (e.g., stretching, sliding) that govern material behavior at and between length scales. In recent years, new techniques have been developed to probe ever smaller length scales and may help to elucidate mechanisms of load transfer and damage and the molecular constituents involved in the in the earliest stages of ligament and tendon damage. A detailed understanding of load transfer and damage from the molecular to the tissue level may elucidate targets for the treatment of connective tissue diseases and inform practice to prevent and rehabilitate ligament and tendon injuries. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3093-3104, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared L. Zitnay
- Department of Bioengineering, and Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute University of Utah
| | - Jeffrey A. Weiss
- Department of Bioengineering, and Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute University of Utah,Department of Orthopaedics, University of Utah
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Heuijerjans A, Wilson W, Ito K, van Donkelaar CC. Osteochondral resurfacing implantation angle is more important than implant material stiffness. J Orthop Res 2018; 36:2911-2922. [PMID: 29943463 PMCID: PMC6586006 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Osteochondral resurfacing implants are a promising treatment for focal cartilage defects. Several implant-factors may affect the clinical outcome of this treatment, such as the implant material stiffness and the accuracy of implant placement, known to be challenging. In general, softer implants are expected to be more accommodating for implant misalignment than stiffer implants, and motion is expected to increase effects from implant misalignment and stiffness. 3D finite element models of cartilage/cartilage contact were employed in which implantation angle (0°, 5°, 10°) and implant material stiffness (E = 5 MPa, 100 MPa, 2 GPa) were varied. A creep loading (0.6 MPa) was simulated, followed by a sliding motion. Creep loading resulted in low maximum collagen strains of 2.5% in the intact case compared to 11.7% with an empty defect. Implants mostly positively affected collagen strains, deviatoric strains, and hydrostatic pressures in the adjacent cartilage, but these effects were superior for correct alignment (0°). The main effect of implant misalignment was bulging of opposing cartilage tissue into the gap caused by the misalignment. This increased collagen strains and hydrostatic pressures. Deviatoric strains were increased adjacent to the gap. Subsequent sliding initially increased strains for a stiff, misaligned implant, but generally sliding decreased strains. In conclusion, implants can decrease the detrimental effect of defects, but correct implant alignment is crucial, more than implant material stiffness. Implant misalignment causes a gap, causing potentially damaging cartilage deformation during prolonged loading, for example, standing, even for soft implants. Mild motion may positively affect the cartilage. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 36:2911-2922, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Heuijerjans
- Orthopaedic BiomechanicsDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 5135600MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Wouter Wilson
- Orthopaedic BiomechanicsDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 5135600MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic BiomechanicsDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 5135600MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Corrinus C. van Donkelaar
- Orthopaedic BiomechanicsDepartment of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyP.O. Box 5135600MBEindhovenThe Netherlands
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Spiesz EM, Thorpe CT, Thurner PJ, Screen HRC. Structure and collagen crimp patterns of functionally distinct equine tendons, revealed by quantitative polarised light microscopy (qPLM). Acta Biomater 2018; 70:281-292. [PMID: 29409868 PMCID: PMC5894809 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Structure-function relationships in tendons are directly influenced by the arrangement of collagen fibres. However, the details of such arrangements in functionally distinct tendons remain obscure. This study demonstrates the use of quantitative polarised light microscopy (qPLM) to identify structural differences in two major tendon compartments at the mesoscale: fascicles and interfascicular matrix (IFM). It contrasts functionally distinct positional and energy storing tendons, and considers changes with age. Of particular note, the technique facilitates the analysis of crimp parameters, in which cutting direction artefact can be accounted for and eliminated, enabling the first detailed analysis of crimp parameters across functionally distinct tendons. IFM shows lower birefringence (0.0013 ± 0.0001 [−]), as compared to fascicles (0.0044 ± 0.0005 [−]), indicating that the volume fraction of fibres must be substantially lower in the IFM. Interestingly, no evidence of distinct fibre directional dispersions between equine energy storing superficial digital flexor tendons (SDFTs) and positional common digital extensor tendons (CDETs) were noted, suggesting either more subtle structural differences between tendon types or changes focused in the non-collagenous components. By contrast, collagen crimp characteristics are strongly tendon type specific, indicating crimp specialisation is crucial in the respective mechanical function. SDFTs showed much finer crimp (21.1 ± 5.5 µm) than positional CDETs (135.4 ± 20.1 µm). Further, tendon crimp was finer in injured tendon, as compared to its healthy equivalents. Crimp angle differed strongly between tendon types as well, with average of 6.5 ± 1.4° in SDFTs and 13.1 ± 2.0° in CDETs, highlighting a substantially tighter crimp in the SDFT, likely contributing to its effective recoil capacity. Statement of Significance This is the first study to quantify birefringence in fascicles and interfascicular matrix of functionally distinct energy storing and positional tendons. It adopts a novel method – quantitative polarised light microscopy (qPLM) to measure collagen crimp angle, avoiding artefacts related to the direction of histological sectioning, and provides the first direct comparison of crimp characteristics of functionally distinct tendons of various ages. A comparison of matched picrosirius red stained and unstained tendons sections identified non-homogenous staining effects, and leads us to recommend that only unstained sections are analysed in the quantitative manner. qPLM is successfully used to assess birefringence in soft tissue sections, offering a promising tool for investigating the structural arrangements of fibres in (soft) tissues and other composite materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa M Spiesz
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Rd, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom; Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Chavaunne T Thorpe
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Rd, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom; Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, United Kingdom.
| | - Philipp J Thurner
- Institute of Lightweight Design and Structural Biomechanics, TU Wien, Getreidemarkt 9, A-1060 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Hazel R C Screen
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Rd, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom.
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Svensson RB, Smith ST, Moyer PJ, Magnusson SP. Effects of maturation and advanced glycation on tensile mechanics of collagen fibrils from rat tail and Achilles tendons. Acta Biomater 2018; 70:270-280. [PMID: 29447959 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Connective tissues are ubiquitous throughout the body and consequently affect the function of many organs. In load bearing connective tissues like tendon, the mechanical functionality is provided almost exclusively by collagen fibrils that in turn are stabilized by covalent cross-links. Functionally distinct tendons display different cross-link patterns, which also change with maturation, but these differences have not been studied in detail at the fibril level. In the present study, a custom built nanomechanical test platform was designed and fabricated to measure tensile mechanics of individual fibrils from rat tendons. The influence of animal maturity (4 vs. 16 week old rats) and functionally different tendons (tail vs. Achilles tendons) were examined. Additionally the effect of methylglyoxal (MG) treatment in vitro to form advanced glycation end products (AGEs) was investigated. Age and tissue type had no significant effect on fibril mechanics, but MG treatment increased strength and stiffness without inducing brittleness and gave rise to a distinct three-phase mechanical response corroborating that previously reported in human patellar tendon fibrils. That age and tissue had little mechanical effect, tentatively suggest that variations in enzymatic cross-links may play a minor role after initial tissue formation. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Tendons are connective tissues that connect muscle to bone and carry some of the greatest mechanical loads in the body, which makes them common sites of injury. A tendon is essentially a biological rope formed by thin strands called fibrils made of the protein collagen. Tendon function relies on the strength of these fibrils, which in turn depends on naturally occurring cross-links between collagen molecules, but the mechanical influence of these cross-links have not been measured before. It is believed that beneficial cross-linking occurs with maturation while additional cross-linking with aging may lead to brittleness, but this study provides evidence that maturation has little effect on mechanical function and that age-related cross-linking does not result in brittle collagen fibrils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rene B Svensson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Bispebjerg Hospital and Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Stuart T Smith
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Patrick J Moyer
- Department of Physics and Optical Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - S Peter Magnusson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery M, Bispebjerg Hospital and Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Unit, Bispebjerg Hospital, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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35
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Heuijerjans A, Wilson W, Ito K, van Donkelaar CC. The critical size of focal articular cartilage defects is associated with strains in the collagen fibers. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2017; 50:40-46. [PMID: 28987870 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2017.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The size of full-thickness focal cartilage defect is accepted to be predictive of its fate, but at which size threshold treatment is required is unclear. Clarification of the mechanism behind this threshold effect will help determining when treatment is required. The objective was to investigate the effect of defect size on strains in the collagen fibers and the non-fibrillar matrix of surrounding cartilage. These strains may indicate matrix disruption. Tissue deformation into the defect was expected, stretching adjacent superficial collagen fibers, while an osteochondral implant was expected to prevent these deformations. Finite element simulations of cartilage/cartilage contact for intact, 0.5 to 8mm wide defects and 8mm implant cases were performed. Impact, a load increase to 2MPa in 1ms, and creep loading, a constant load of 0.5MPa for 900s, scenarios were simulated. A composition-based material model for articular cartilage was employed. Impact loading caused low strain levels for all models. Creep loading increased deviatoric strains and collagen strains in the surrounding cartilage. Deviatoric strains increased gradually with defect size, but the surface area at which collagen fiber strains exceeded failure thresholds, abruptly increased for small increases of defect size. This was caused by a narrow distribution of collagen fiber strains resulting from the non-linear stiffness of the fibers. We postulate this might be the mechanism behind the existence of a critical defect size. Filling of the defect with an implant reduced deviatoric and collagen fiber strains towards values for intact cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Heuijerjans
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - W Wilson
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - K Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - C C van Donkelaar
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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36
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Buchanan KA, Lakes RS, Vanderby R. Chiral behavior in rat tail tendon fascicles. J Biomech 2017; 64:206-211. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.09.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 09/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Lee AH, Szczesny SE, Santare MH, Elliott DM. Investigating mechanisms of tendon damage by measuring multi-scale recovery following tensile loading. Acta Biomater 2017; 57:363-372. [PMID: 28435080 PMCID: PMC6688648 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Tendon pathology is associated with damage. While tendon damage is likely initiated by mechanical loading, little is known about the specific etiology. Damage is defined as an irreversible change in the microstructure that alters the macroscopic mechanical parameters. In tendon, the link between mechanical loading and microstructural damage, resulting in macroscopic changes, is not fully elucidated. In addition, tendon damage at the macroscale has been proposed to initiate when tendon is loaded beyond a strain threshold, yet the metrics to define the damage threshold are not determined. We conducted multi-scale mechanical testing to investigate the mechanism of tendon damage by simultaneously quantifying macroscale mechanical and microstructural changes. At the microscale, we observe full recovery of the fibril strain and only partial recovery of the interfibrillar sliding, indicating that the damage initiates at the interfibrillar structures. We show that non-recoverable sliding is a mechanism for tendon damage and is responsible for the macroscale decreased linear modulus and elongated toe-region observed at the fascicle-level, and these macroscale properties are appropriate metrics that reflect tendon damage. We concluded that the inflection point of the stress-strain curve represents the damage threshold and, therefore, may be a useful parameter for future studies. Establishing the mechanism of damage at multiple length scales can improve prevention and rehabilitation strategies for tendon pathology. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Tendon pathology is associated with mechanically induced damage. Damage, as defined in engineering, is an irreversible change in microstructure that alters the macroscopic mechanical properties. Although microstructural damage and changes to macroscale mechanics are likely, this link to microstructural change was not yet established. We conducted multiscale mechanical testing to investigate the mechanism of tendon damage by simultaneously quantifying macroscale mechanical and microstructural changes. We showed that non-recoverable sliding between collagen fibrils is a mechanism for tendon damage. Establishing the mechanism of damage at multiple length scales can improve prevention and rehabilitation strategies for tendon pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea H Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, United States
| | - Spencer E Szczesny
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Michael H Santare
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, United States
| | - Dawn M Elliott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, United States.
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Carniel TA, Fancello EA. A transversely isotropic coupled hyperelastic model for the mechanical behavior of tendons. J Biomech 2017; 54:49-57. [PMID: 28238424 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2017.01.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Several constitutive models for fibrous soft tissues used in literature provide a completely isotropic response when fibers are compressed. However, recent experimental investigations confirm the expectation that tendons behave anisotropically during compression tests. Motivated by these facts, the present manuscript presents an appropriate choice of hyperelastic potentials able to predict the coupled mechanical behaviors of tendons under both tensile and compressive loads with a relatively small number of material parameters. The high stiffness of tendons under tensile tests is handled by a transversely isotropic model while the coupled compressive response is modeled by means of a Fung-type potential in terms of Seth-Hill's generalized strain tensors. In present study the logarithm strain measure is used instead of the usually employed Green-Lagrange strain. After a parameter identification procedure, the resulting model showed ability to satisfactorily reproduce the experimental data. Details on the analytical material tangent modulus are provided. Present results will then enhance further researches related to tendon dissipative effects and numerical multiscale investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago André Carniel
- GRANTE - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Alberto Fancello
- GRANTE - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil; LEBm - University Hospital, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
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39
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Resistance training minimizes the biomechanical effects of aging in three different rat tendons. J Biomech 2017; 53:29-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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40
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Sichting F, Steinke H, Wagner MFX, Fritsch S, Hädrich C, Hammer N. Quantification of material slippage in the iliotibial tract when applying the partial plastination clamping technique. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2015; 49:112-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Revised: 04/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Yang TH, Thoreson AR, An KN, Zhao C, Conover CA, Amadio PC. PAPP-A affects tendon structure and mechanical properties. J Struct Biol 2015; 192:59-66. [PMID: 26306763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) serves to increase local insulin-like growth factor (IGF) stimulation of proliferation and differentiation in many tissues through proteolysis of inhibitory IGF-binding proteins. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of PAPP-A on tendon structure and mechanical properties. A total of 30 tails from 6-month-old mice were tested with 10 tails in each of following groups: PAPP-A knockout (KO), skeletal-specific PAPP-A overexpressing transgenic (Tg) and wild type (WT). Morphologically, the total tail cross-sectional area (CSA), individual tissue CSAs of bone, muscle and tendon, and fascicle diameter were measured. A fascicle pullout test was performed to assess stiffness and strength of interfascicular structures. Fascicles were mechanically characterized through low and high displacement rate uniaxial tension tests providing modulus at each rate, hysteresis area and stress relaxation ratio. The KO mice had a smaller total tail CSA (p<0.05), fascicle diameter (p<0.05), absolute tendon CSA (p<0.05), fast and slow stiffness (p<0.05 for both) and larger hysteresis area (p<0.05) compared to WT and Tg mice. On the other hand, the Tg mice had a larger fascicle diameter (p<0.05), absolute tendon CSA (p<0.05), higher interfascicular strength and stiffness (p<0.05) and lower fascicular modulus at low displacement rates (p<0.05) compared to WT and KO mice. Tg mice also had larger total tail CSA area (p<0.05) and smaller hysteresis area (p<0.05) than KO mice, and larger normalized tendon CSA (p<0.05) than WT mice. Based on these data, we conclude that PAPP-A affects fascicle structure, thereby affecting tendon phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tai-Hua Yang
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Andrew R Thoreson
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Kai-Nan An
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Chunfeng Zhao
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Cheryl A Conover
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Endocrine Research Unit, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Division of Orthopedic Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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42
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Alberti KA, Sun JY, Illeperuma WR, Suo Z, Xu Q. Laminar Tendon Composites with Enhanced Mechanical Properties. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE 2015; 50:2616-2625. [PMID: 25691802 PMCID: PMC4327911 DOI: 10.1007/s10853-015-8842-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A strong isotropic material that is both biocompatible and biodegradable is desired for many biomedical applications, including rotator cuff repair, tendon and ligament repair, vascular grafting, among others. Recently, we developed a technique, called "bioskiving" to create novel 2D and 3D constructs from decellularized tendon, using a combination of mechanical sectioning, and layered stacking and rolling. The unidirectionally aligned collagen nanofibers (derived from sections of decellularized tendon) offer good mechanical properties to the constructs compared with those fabricated from reconstituted collagen. METHODS In this paper, we studied the effect that several variables have on the mechanical properties of structures fabricated from tendon slices, including crosslinking density and the orientation in which the fibers are stacked. RESULTS We observed that following stacking and crosslinking, the strength of the constructs is significantly improved, with crosslinked sections having an ultimate tens ile strength over 20 times greater than non-crosslinked samples, and a modulus nearly 50 times higher. The mechanism of the mechanical failure mode of the tendon constructs with or without crosslinking was also investigated. CONCLUSIONS The strength and fiber organization, combined with the ability to introduce transversely isotropic mechanical properties makes the laminar tendon composites a biocompatiable material that may find future use in a number of biomedical and tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A Alberti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, USA
| | - Jeong-Yun Sun
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02138, USA ; Kavli Institute for Bionano Science and Technology, Harvard University, Cambridge MA, 02138, USA ; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 151-744 Korea
| | - Widusha R Illeperuma
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02138, USA ; Kavli Institute for Bionano Science and Technology, Harvard University, Cambridge MA, 02138, USA
| | - Zhigang Suo
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02138, USA ; Kavli Institute for Bionano Science and Technology, Harvard University, Cambridge MA, 02138, USA
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, USA
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43
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Szczesny SE, Elliott DM. Incorporating plasticity of the interfibrillar matrix in shear lag models is necessary to replicate the multiscale mechanics of tendon fascicles. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2014; 40:325-338. [PMID: 25262202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2014.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Revised: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite current knowledge of tendon structure, the fundamental deformation mechanisms underlying tendon mechanics and failure are unknown. We recently showed that a shear lag model, which explicitly assumed plastic interfibrillar load transfer between discontinuous fibrils, could explain the multiscale fascicle mechanics, suggesting that fascicle yielding is due to plastic deformation of the interfibrillar matrix. However, it is unclear whether alternative physical mechanisms, such as elastic interfibrillar deformation or fibril yielding, also contribute to fascicle mechanical behavior. The objective of the current work was to determine if plasticity of the interfibrillar matrix is uniquely capable of explaining the multiscale mechanics of tendon fascicles including the tissue post-yield behavior. This was examined by comparing the predictions of a continuous fibril model and three separate shear lag models incorporating an elastic, plastic, or elastoplastic interfibrillar matrix with multiscale experimental data. The predicted effects of fibril yielding on each of these models were also considered. The results demonstrated that neither the continuous fibril model nor the elastic shear lag model can successfully predict the experimental data, even if fibril yielding is included. Only the plastic or elastoplastic shear lag models were capable of reproducing the multiscale tendon fascicle mechanics. Differences between these two models were small, although the elastoplastic model did improve the fit of the experimental data at low applied tissue strains. These findings suggest that while interfibrillar elasticity contributes to the initial stress response, plastic deformation of the interfibrillar matrix is responsible for tendon fascicle post-yield behavior. This information sheds light on the physical processes underlying tendon failure, which is essential to improve our understanding of tissue pathology and guide the development of successful repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer E Szczesny
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 240 Skirkanich Hall, 210 South 33rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Dawn M Elliott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 125 East Delaware Avenue, Newark, DE 19716, United States.
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44
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Peffers MJ, Thorpe CT, Collins JA, Eong R, Wei TKJ, Screen HRC, Clegg PD. Proteomic analysis reveals age-related changes in tendon matrix composition, with age- and injury-specific matrix fragmentation. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:25867-78. [PMID: 25077967 PMCID: PMC4162187 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.566554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Energy storing tendons, such as the human Achilles and equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT), are highly prone to injury, the incidence of which increases with aging. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that result in increased injury in aged tendons are not well established but are thought to result in altered matrix turnover. However, little attempt has been made to fully characterize the tendon proteome nor determine how the abundance of specific tendon proteins changes with aging and/or injury. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess the protein profile of normal SDFTs from young and old horses using label-free relative quantification to identify differentially abundant proteins and peptide fragments between age groups. The protein profile of injured SDFTs from young and old horses was also assessed. The results demonstrate distinct proteomic profiles in young and old tendon, with alterations in the levels of proteins involved in matrix organization and regulation of cell tension. Furthermore, we identified several new peptide fragments (neopeptides) present in aged tendons, suggesting that there are age-specific cleavage patterns within the SDFT. Proteomic profile also differed between young and old injured tendon, with a greater number of neopeptides identified in young injured tendon. This study has increased the knowledge of molecular events associated with tendon aging and injury, suggesting that maintenance and repair of tendon tissue may be reduced in aged individuals and may help to explain why the risk of injury increases with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy J Peffers
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE
| | - Chavaunne T Thorpe
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, and
| | - John A Collins
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE
| | - Robin Eong
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, School of Life Sciences, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore 599489
| | - Timothy K J Wei
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE, School of Life Sciences, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore 599489
| | - Hazel R C Screen
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, and
| | - Peter D Clegg
- From the Department of Musculoskeletal Biology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston CH64 7TE
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Thorpe CT, Riley GP, Birch HL, Clegg PD, Screen HRC. Fascicles from energy-storing tendons show an age-specific response to cyclic fatigue loading. J R Soc Interface 2014; 11:20131058. [PMID: 24402919 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2013.1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Some tendons, such as the human Achilles and equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT), act as energy stores, stretching and recoiling to increase efficiency during locomotion. Our previous observations of rotation in response to applied strain in SDFT fascicles suggest a helical structure, which may provide energy-storing tendons with a greater ability to extend and recoil efficiently. Despite this specialization, energy-storing tendons are prone to age-related tendinopathy. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of cyclic fatigue loading (FL) on the microstructural strain response of SDFT fascicles from young and old horses. The data demonstrate two independent age-related mechanisms of fatigue failure; in young horses, FL caused low levels of matrix damage and decreased rotation. This suggests that loading causes alterations to the helix substructure, which may reduce their ability to recoil and recover. By contrast, fascicles from old horses, in which the helix is already compromised, showed greater evidence of matrix damage and suffer increased fibre sliding after FL, which may partially explain the age-related increase in tendinopathy. Elucidation of helix structure and the precise alterations occurring owing to both ageing and FL will help to develop appropriate preventative and repair strategies for tendinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chavaunne T Thorpe
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, , Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
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46
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Helical sub-structures in energy-storing tendons provide a possible mechanism for efficient energy storage and return. Acta Biomater 2013; 9:7948-56. [PMID: 23669621 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2013] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The predominant function of tendons is to position the limb during locomotion. Specific tendons also act as energy stores. Energy-storing (ES) tendons are prone to injury, the incidence of which increases with age. This is likely related to their function; ES tendons are exposed to higher strains and require a greater ability to recoil than positional tendons. The specialized properties of ES tendons are thought to be achieved through structural and compositional differences. However, little is known about structure-function relationships in tendons. This study uses fascicles from the equine superficial digital flexor (SDFT) and common digital extensor (CDET) as examples of ES and positional tendons. We hypothesized that extension and recoil behaviour at the micro-level would differ between tendon types, and would alter with age in the injury-prone SDFT. Supporting this, the results show that extension in the CDET is dominated by fibre sliding. By contrast, greater rotation was observed in the SDFT, suggesting a helical component to fascicles in this tendon. This was accompanied by greater recovery and less hysteresis loss in SDFT samples. In samples from aged SDFTs, the amount of rotation and the ability to recover decreased, while hysteresis loss increased. These findings indicate that fascicles in the ES SDFT may have a helical structure, enabling the more efficient recoil observed. Further, the helix structure appears to alter with ageing; this coincides with a reduction in the ability of SDFT fascicles to recoil. This may affect tendon fatigue resistance and predispose aged tendons to injury.
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47
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Legerlotz K, Riley GP, Screen HR. GAG depletion increases the stress-relaxation response of tendon fascicles, but does not influence recovery. Acta Biomater 2013; 9:6860-6. [PMID: 23462553 PMCID: PMC3666056 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2013.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Revised: 02/06/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic and static loading regimes are commonly used to study tenocyte metabolism in vitro and to improve our understanding of exercise-associated tendon pathologies. The aims of our study were to investigate if cyclic and static stress relaxation affected the mechanical properties of tendon fascicles differently, if this effect was reversible after a recovery period, and if the removal of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) affected sample recovery. Tendon fascicles were dissected frombovine-foot extensors and subjected to 14% cyclic (1Hz) or static tensile strain for 30min. Additional fascicles were incubated overnight in buffer with 0.5U chondroitinase ABC or in buffer alone prior to the static stress-relaxation regime. To assess the effect of different stress-relaxation regimes, a quasi-static test to failure was carried out, either directly post loading or after a 2h recovery period, and compared with unloaded control fascicles. Both stress-relaxation regimes led to a significant reduction in fascicle failure stress and strain, but this was more pronounced in the cyclically loaded specimens. Removal of GAGs led to more stress relaxation and greater reductions in failure stress after static loading compared to controls. The reduction in mechanical properties was partially reversible in all samples, given a recovery period of 2h. This has implications for mechanical testing protocols, as a time delay between fatiguing specimens and characterization of mechanical properties will affect the results. GAGs appear to protect tendon fascicles from fatigue effects, possibly by enabling sample hydration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Legerlotz
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, UK
- Corresponding author. Address: School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK. Tel.: +44 1603 591785; fax: +44 1603 592250. k.s.l.@gmx.de
| | - Graham P. Riley
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Hazel R.C. Screen
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, UK
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48
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Thompson MS. Tendon mechanobiology: experimental models require mathematical underpinning. Bull Math Biol 2013; 75:1238-54. [PMID: 23681792 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-013-9850-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Accepted: 04/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Mathematical and computational modeling is in demand to help address current challenges in mechanobiology of musculoskeletal tissues. In particular for tendon, the high clinical importance of the tissue, the huge mechanical demands placed on it and its ability to adapt to these demands, require coupled, multiscale models incorporating complex geometrical and microstructural information as well as time-based descriptions of cellular activity and response.This review introduces the information sources required to develop such multiscale models. It covers tissue structure and biomechanics, cell biomechanics, the current understanding of tendon's ability in health and disease to update its properties and structure and the few already existing multiscale mechanobiological models of the tissue. Finally, a sketch is provided of what such models could achieve ideally, pointing out where experimental data and knowledge are still missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Thompson
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Windmill Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK.
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49
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LaCroix AS, Duenwald-Kuehl SE, Lakes RS, Vanderby R. Relationship between tendon stiffness and failure: a metaanalysis. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2013; 115:43-51. [PMID: 23599401 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01449.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendon is a highly specialized, hierarchical tissue designed to transfer forces from muscle to bone; complex viscoelastic and anisotropic behaviors have been extensively characterized for specific subsets of tendons. Reported mechanical data consistently show a pseudoelastic, stress-vs.-strain behavior with a linear slope after an initial toe region. Many studies report a linear, elastic modulus, or Young's modulus (hereafter called elastic modulus) and ultimate stress for their tendon specimens. Individually, these studies are unable to provide a broader, interstudy understanding of tendon mechanical behavior. Herein we present a metaanalysis of pooled mechanical data from a representative sample of tendons from different species. These data include healthy tendons and those altered by injury and healing, genetic modification, allograft preparation, mechanical environment, and age. Fifty studies were selected and analyzed. Despite a wide range of mechanical properties between and within species, elastic modulus and ultimate stress are highly correlated (R(2) = 0.785), suggesting that tendon failure is highly strain-dependent. Furthermore, this relationship was observed to be predictable over controlled ranges of elastic moduli, as would be typical of any individual species. With the knowledge gained through this metaanalysis, noninvasive tools could measure elastic modulus in vivo and reasonably predict ultimate stress (or structural compromise) for diseased or injured tendon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S LaCroix
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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50
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A novel in vitro loading system for high frequency loading of cultured tendon fascicles. Med Eng Phys 2013; 35:205-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2012.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Revised: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 08/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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