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Woods S, McKiel A, Herda T, Klentrou P, Holmes M, Gabriel D, Falk B. Developmental changes in motor unit activity patterns: child-adult comparison using discrete motor unit analysis. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024; 49:904-919. [PMID: 38471135 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0339] [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] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Using global surface electromyography (sEMG) and the sEMG threshold it has been suggested that children activate their type-II motor unit (MU) to a lesser extent compared with adults. However, when age-related differences in discrete MU activation are examined using sEMG decomposition this phenomenon is not observed. Furthermore, findings from these studies are inconsistent and conflicting. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine differences in discrete MU activation of the vastus lateralis (VL) between boys and men during moderate-intensity knee extensions. Seventeen boys and 20 men completed two laboratory sessions. Following a habituation session, maximal voluntary isometric knee extension (MVIC) torque was determined before completing trapezoidal contractions at 70% MVIC. sEMG of the VL was captured and mathematically decomposed into individual MU action potential trains. Motor unit action potential amplitude (MUAPamp), recruitment threshold (RT), and MU firing rates (MUFR) were calculated. We observed that MUAPamp-RT slope was steeper in men compared with boys (p < 0.05) even after accounting for fat thickness and quadriceps muscle depth. The mean MUFR and y-intercept of the MUFR-RT relationship were significantly (p < 0.001) lower in boys than in men. The slope of the MUFR-RT relationship tended to be steeper in men, but the differences did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.056). Overall, our results suggest that neural strategies used to produce torque are different among boys and men. Such differences may be related, in part, to boys' lower MUFR and lesser ability to activate their higher-threshold MUs. Although, other factors (e.g., muscle composition) likely also play a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Woods
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew McKiel
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Trent Herda
- School of Education and Human Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Panagiota Klentrou
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Holmes
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - David Gabriel
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Bareket Falk
- Department of Kinesiology, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
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Woods S, McKiel A, Herda T, Klentrou P, Holmes MWR, Gabriel DA, Falk B. Different discrete motor-unit activation patterns in the flexor carpi radialis in boys and men. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:1933-1942. [PMID: 38285213 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-024-05417-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lower activation of higher threshold (type-II) motor units (MUs) has been suggested in children compared with adults. We examined child-adult differences in discrete MU activation of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR). METHODS Fifteen boys (10.2 ± 1.4 years), and 17 men (25.0 ± 2.7 years) completed 2 laboratory sessions. Following a habituation session, maximal voluntary isometric wrist flexion torque (MVIC) was determined before completing trapezoidal isometric contractions at 70%MVIC. Surface electromyography was captured by Delsys Trigno Galileo sensors and decomposed into individual MU action potential trains. Recruitment threshold (RT), and MU firing rates (MUFR) were calculated. RESULTS MVIC was significantly greater in men (10.19 ± 1.92 Nm) than in boys (4.33 ± 1.47 Nm) (p < 0.05), but not statistically different after accounting for differences in body size. Mean MUFR was not different between boys (17.41 ± 7.83 pps) and men (17.47 ± 7.64 pps). However, the MUFR-RT slope was significantly (p < 0.05) steeper (more negative) in boys, reflecting a progressively greater decrease in MUFR with increasing RT. Additionally, boys recruited more of their MUs early in the ramped contraction. CONCLUSION Compared with men, boys tended to recruit their MUs earlier and at a lower percentage of MVIC. This difference in MU recruitment may explain the greater decrease in MUFR with increasing RT in boys compared with men. Overall, these findings suggest an age-related difference in the neural strategy used to develop moderate-high torque in wrist flexors, where boys recruit more of their MUs earlier in the force gradation process, possibly resulting in a narrower recruitment range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Woods
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew McKiel
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Trent Herda
- School of Education and Human Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Panagiota Klentrou
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Michael W R Holmes
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - David A Gabriel
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Bareket Falk
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada.
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada.
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Woods S, McKiel A, Herda T, Klentrou P, Holmes M, Gabriel D, Falk B. Motor unit firing rates during slow and fast contractions in boys and men. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024:10.1007/s00421-024-05500-8. [PMID: 38762834 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-024-05500-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor unit (MU) activation during maximal contractions is lower in children compared with adults. Among adults, discrete MU activation differs, depending on the rate of contraction. We investigated the effect of contraction rate on discrete MU activation in boys and men. METHODS Following a habituation session, 14 boys and 20 men completed two experimental sessions for knee extension and wrist flexion, in random order. Maximal voluntary isometric torque (MVIC) was determined before completing trapezoidal isometric contractions (70%MVIC) at low (10%MVIC/s) and high (35%MVIC/s) contraction rates. Surface electromyography was captured from the vastus lateralis (VL) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) and decomposed into individual MU action potential (MUAP) trains. RESULTS In both groups and muscles, the initial MU firing rate (MUFR) was greater (p < 0.05) at high compared with low contraction rates. The increase in initial MUFR at the fast contraction in the VL was greater in men than boys (p < 0.05). Mean MUFR was significantly lower during fast contractions only in the FCR (p < 0.05). In both groups and muscles, the rate of decay of MUFR with increasing MUAP amplitude was less steep (p < 0.05) during fast compared with slow contractions. CONCLUSION In both groups and muscles, initial MUFRs, as well as MUFRs of large MUs were higher during fast compared with slow contractions. However, in the VL, the increase in initial MUFR was greater in men compared with boys. This suggests that in large muscles, men may rely more on increasing MUFR to generate torque at faster rates compared with boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Woods
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Andrew McKiel
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Trent Herda
- School of Education and Human Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Panagiota Klentrou
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Holmes
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
| | - David Gabriel
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Bareket Falk
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada.
- Centre for Bone and Muscle Health, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada.
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Kelly KM, Mizell J, Bigdeli L, Paul S, Tellez MA, Bartlett A, Heintzman S, Reynolds JE, Sterling GB, Rajneesh KF, Kolb SJ, Elsheikh B, Arnold WD. Differential impact on motor unit characteristics across severities of adult spinal muscular atrophy. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023; 10:2208-2222. [PMID: 37735861 PMCID: PMC10723249 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypotheses that decomposition electromyography (dEMG) motor unit action potential (MUAP) amplitude and firing rate are altered in SMA; dEMG parameters are associated with strength and function; dEMG parameters are correlated with traditional electrophysiological assessments. METHODS Ambulatory and non-ambulatory adults with SMA on nusinersen and healthy controls were enrolled. MUAPs were decomposed from multielectrode surface recordings during 30-s maximum contraction of the abductor digiti minimi (ADM). Isometric strength, upper limb function, patient-reported function, and standard electrophysiologic measures of the ADM (compound muscle action potential [CMAP], single motor unit potential [SMUP], motor unit number estimation [MUNE]) were collected. RESULTS dEMG MUAP amplitudes were higher in ambulatory versus control and non-ambulatory groups and were higher in controls versus non-ambulatory SMA. In contrast, dEMG firing rates were higher in ambulatory versus non-ambulatory and control groups but similar between non-ambulatory and control. dEMG parameters showed moderate to strong positive correlation with strength and function whereas CMAP and MUNE better correlated with function than strength. SMUP did not correlate with strength, function, or dEMG MUAP amplitude. dEMG parameters show overall good test-retest reliability. INTERPRETATION dEMG provided reliable, noninvasive measure of MUAP amplitude size and firing rate and revealed divergent patterns across disease severity in adults with SMA. Firing rate enhancement, as seen in milder SMA, may provide a therapeutic avenue for improving function in more severe SMA, where firing rates appear preserved. MUAP amplitude size and firing rate, quantified with dEMG, may be promising monitoring biomarker candidates for noninvasive assessment of SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Marie Kelly
- Department of Physical Medicine & RehabilitationUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMOUSA
- NextGen Precision HealthUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMOUSA
| | - Jordan Mizell
- College of MedicineThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOHUSA
| | - Ladan Bigdeli
- College of MedicineThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOHUSA
| | - Samuel Paul
- College of MedicineThe Ohio State UniversityColumbusOHUSA
| | - Marco Antonio Tellez
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOHUSA
| | - Amy Bartlett
- Center for Clinical and Translational ScienceThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOHUSA
| | - Sarah Heintzman
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOHUSA
| | | | - Gary Brent Sterling
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOHUSA
| | | | - Stephen James Kolb
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOHUSA
| | - Bakri Elsheikh
- Department of NeurologyThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical CenterColumbusOHUSA
| | - William David Arnold
- Department of Physical Medicine & RehabilitationUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMOUSA
- NextGen Precision HealthUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMOUSA
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Olmos AA, Sterczala AJ, Parra ME, Dimmick HL, Miller JD, Deckert JA, Sontag SA, Gallagher PM, Fry AC, Herda TJ, Trevino MA. Sex-related differences in motor unit behavior are influenced by myosin heavy chain during high- but not moderate-intensity contractions. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 239:e14024. [PMID: 37551144 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Motor unit recruitment and firing rate patterns of the vastus lateralis (VL) have not been compared between sexes during moderate- and high-intensity contraction intensities. Additionally, the influence of fiber composition on potential sex-related differences remains unquantified. METHODS Eleven males and 11 females performed 40% and 70% maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs). Surface electromyographic (EMG) signals recorded from the VL were decomposed. Recruitment thresholds (RTs), MU action potential amplitudes (MUAPAMP ), initial firing rates (IFRs), mean firing rates (MFRs), and normalized EMG amplitude (N-EMGRMS ) at steady torque were analyzed. Y-intercepts and slopes were calculated for MUAPAMP , IFR, and MFR versus RT relationships. Type I myosin heavy chain isoform (MHC) was determined with muscle biopsies. RESULTS There were no sex-related differences in MU characteristics at 40% MVC. At 70% MVC, males exhibited greater slopes (p = 0.002) for the MUAPAMP , whereas females displayed greater slopes (p = 0.001-0.007) for the IFR and MFR versus RT relationships. N-EMGRMS at 70% MVC was greater for females (p < 0.001). Type I %MHC was greater for females (p = 0.006), and was correlated (p = 0.018-0.031) with the slopes for the MUAPAMP , IFR, and MFR versus RT relationships at 70% MVC (r = -0.599-0.585). CONCLUSION Both sexes exhibited an inverse relationship between MU firing rates and recruitment thresholds. However, the sex-related differences in MU recruitment and firing rate patterns and N-EMGRMS at 70% MVC were likely due to greater type I% MHC and smaller twitch forces of the higher threshold MUs for the females. Evidence is provided that muscle fiber composition may explain divergent MU behavior between sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex A Olmos
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Lab, Department of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Adam J Sterczala
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mandy E Parra
- School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, Texas, USA
| | - Hannah L Dimmick
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jonathan D Miller
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Jake A Deckert
- Department of Human Physiology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington, USA
| | - Stephanie A Sontag
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Lab, Department of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Philip M Gallagher
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Andrew C Fry
- Jayhawk Athletic Performance Laboratory - Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Trent J Herda
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Michael A Trevino
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Lab, Department of Kinesiology, Applied Health, and Recreation, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
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Reece TM, Arnold CE, Herda TJ. An examination of motor unit firing rates during steady torque of maximal efforts with either an explosive or slower rate of torque development. Exp Physiol 2021; 106:2517-2530. [PMID: 34676609 DOI: 10.1113/ep089808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? The aim was to explore agonist and antagonist motor unit firing rates during maximal efforts performed with either an explosive or a slower rate of torque development. What is the main finding and its importance? The antagonist muscle presented a motor unit firing rate relationship similar to the agonist muscle. Additionally, the motor units of both muscles exhibited higher firing rates during explosive maximal contractions than during maximal contractions performed at a slower rate of torque development. These results could prove useful to future research analysing the effects of age, disease, resistance training and/or fatigue-related alterations to motor unit firing rates. ABSTRACT The primary purpose of the present study was to examine motor unit (MU) firing rates in agonist and antagonist muscles during periods of steady, maximal efforts using explosive and slower rates of torque development. A secondary purpose was to analyse the MU firing rate versus action potential amplitude relationships of the agonist and antagonist muscles during maximal efforts. Thirteen subjects (mean ± SD; age, 21.2 ± 3.6 years; mass 81.1 ± 21.3 kg; and stature, 177.1±9.9 cm) performed two maximal isometric trapezoid muscle actions of the elbow flexors that included either an explosive or a slower, linearly increasing rate (ramp) of torque development. Surface EMG signals of the biceps brachii (BB) and triceps brachii (TB) muscles were collected and decomposed into their constituent MU action potential trains. The MU firing rate versus action potential amplitude relationships of the BB (agonist) and TB (antagonist) muscles were analysed. Moderate to strong relationships (|r| ≥ 0.65) were present for the explosive and ramp contractions in the agonist and antagonist muscles. Firing rates of smaller and larger MUs were higher during the explosive [mean ± SD; agonist = 18.1 ± 6.9 pulses per second (pps), antagonist = 22.0±3.9 pps] than the ramp (agonist = 14.0 ± 5.1 pps, antagonist = 18.3 ± 4.4 pps) contractions for the agonist (P = 0.013) and antagonist muscles (P = 0.007). The antagonist muscle exhibits a similar MU firing rate versus action potential amplitude relationship to the agonist muscle at maximal efforts. Future research should investigate the effects of short-term resistance training on antagonist firing rates and the involvement of peripheral feedback on firing rates during maximal efforts performed at various rates of torque development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanner M Reece
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Catherine E Arnold
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Trent J Herda
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
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Parra ME, Miller JD, Sterczala AJ, Kelly MR, Herda TJ. The reliability of the slopes and y-intercepts of the motor unit firing times and action potential waveforms versus recruitment threshold relationships derived from surface electromyography signal decomposition. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:3389-3398. [PMID: 34477930 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04790-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Changes in motor unit (MU) activity pre- to post-interventions is of high interest. However, there is minimal information regarding day-to-day changes or the reliability of measuring MU activity. This study examined the reliability of relationships calculated via the MU action potential (AP) trains derived from surface electromyography signal decomposition. A comparison between reliability statistics was made between MUAP trains verified with only the reconstruct-and-test versus verification including reconstruct-and-test with spike trigger average (STA) procedures. METHODS Twenty-one individuals performed isometric muscle actions at 50% of maximal voluntary contraction of the first dorsal interosseous on two separate visits. MUs included for reliability analyses initially met the > 90% accuracy from the reconstruct-and-test. STA was applied as an additional exclusionary procedure. Linear regressions were applied to the firing rate and AP amplitude versus recruitment threshold relationships with and without MUs that met the STA criteria. Reliability statistics were also performed on relationships that met a strict range of recruitment thresholds. Reliability was established with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) along with other traditional parameters. RESULTS The firing rate versus recruitment threshold relationships were reliable (ICC > 0.56) and improved (ICC > 0.84) when recruitment ranges were controlled. The slopes of the MUAP amplitude versus recruitment threshold relationships were reliable (ICC > 0.78) while the y-intercepts were reliable (ICC > 0.81) once corrections were made to combat negative scores. CONCLUSIONS Electromyographic signal decomposition without the secondary STA verification procedures can be used to detect intervention-related changes in neural drive with confidence when recorded MU recruitment thresholds are similar across days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy E Parra
- School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan D Miller
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, 1301 Sunnyside Avenue, Room 101BE, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA
| | - Adam J Sterczala
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburg, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Melani R Kelly
- Human Performance Research Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science and Pre-Health Professions, Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Trent J Herda
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, 1301 Sunnyside Avenue, Room 101BE, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA.
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Reece TM, Herda TJ. An examination of a potential organized motor unit firing rate and recruitment scheme of an antagonist muscle during isometric contractions. J Neurophysiol 2021; 125:2094-2106. [PMID: 33909509 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00034.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary purpose of the present study is to determine if an organized control scheme exists for the antagonist muscle during steady isometric torque. A secondary focus is to better understand how firing rates of the antagonist muscle change from a moderate- to higher-contraction intensity. Fourteen subjects performed two submaximal isometric trapezoid muscle actions of the forearm flexors that included a linearly increasing, steady force at both 40% and 70% maximum voluntary contraction, and linearly decreasing segments. Surface electromyographic signals of the biceps and triceps brachii were collected and decomposed into constituent motor unit action potential trains. Motor unit firing rate versus recruitment threshold, motor unit action potential amplitude versus recruitment threshold, and motor unit firing rate versus action potential amplitude relationships of the biceps brachii (agonist) and triceps brachii (antagonist) muscles were analyzed. Moderate- to-strong relationships (|r| ≥ 0.69) were present for the agonist and antagonist muscles for each relationship with no differences between muscles (P = 0.716, 0.428, 0.182). The y-intercepts of the motor unit firing rate versus recruitment threshold relationship of the antagonist did not increase from 40% to 70% maximal voluntary contractions (P = 0.96), unlike for the agonist (P = 0.009). The antagonist muscle exhibits a similar motor unit control scheme to the agonist. Unlike the agonist, however, the firing rates of the antagonist did not increase with increasing intensity. Future research should investigate how antagonist firing rates adapt to resistance training and changes in antagonist firing rates in the absence of peripheral feedback.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to explore a potential motor unit control scheme and quantify changes in firing rates with increasing intensity of an antagonist muscle during isometric contractions. We demonstrate that the antagonist muscle possesses an organized motor unit firing rate and recruitment scheme similar to the agonist muscle during isometric forearm flexion, but unlike the agonist muscle, there was no significant increase in firing rates from a moderate- to higher-intensity isometric contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanner M Reece
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas
| | - Trent J Herda
- Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas
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Watanabe K, Holobar A, Uchida K, Mita Y. Fish Protein Ingestion Induces Neural, but Not Muscular Adaptations, Following Resistance Training in Young Adults. Front Nutr 2021; 8:645747. [PMID: 33777994 PMCID: PMC7993090 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.645747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Nutritional supplementation in conjunction with exercise is of interest for the prevention or improvement of declines in motor performances in older adults. An understanding of the effects on both young and older adults contributes to its effective application. We investigated the effect of fish protein ingestion with resistance training on neural and muscular adaptations in young adults using interventions and assessments that have already been tested in older adults. Methods: Eighteen young adults underwent 8 weeks of isometric knee extension training. During the intervention, nine participants ingested 5 g of fish protein (n = 9, Alaska pollack protein, APP), and the other nine participants ingested casein as a control (n = 9, CAS) in addition to daily meals. Before, during, and after the intervention, the isometric knee extension force, lower extremity muscle mass, and motor unit firing pattern of knee extensor muscles were measured. Results: Maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) was significantly increased in both APP and CAS groups from 0 weeks to 4, 6, and 8 weeks of intervention (p < 0.001), but there were no significant differences between the groups (p = 0.546–0.931). Muscle mass was not significantly changed during the intervention in either group (p = 0.250–0.698). Significant changes in motor unit firing rates (p = 0.02 and 0.029 for motor units recruited at 20–40% of MVC and at 40–60%) were observed following the intervention in the APP but not CAS (p = 0.120–0.751) group. Conclusions: These results suggest that dietary fish protein ingestion changes motor unit adaptations following resistance training in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Watanabe
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Biomechanics, Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences and School of International Liberal Studies, Chukyo University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Aleš Holobar
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | | | - Yukiko Mita
- Department of Human Nutrition, School of Life Studies, Sugiyama Jogakuen University, Nagoya, Japan
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Motor unit action potential amplitude during low torque fatiguing contractions versus high torque non-fatiguing contractions: a multilevel analysis. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:1145-1157. [PMID: 33484337 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04606-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The ability to maintain an absolute, submaximal torque level during fatiguing contractions is controlled, in part, by the recruitment of larger motor units. These motor units are commonly identified based on greater action potential peak-to-peak amplitude values. It is unclear, however, if motor unit action potential (MUAP) amplitude values during low torque, fatiguing contractions reach similar levels as those observed during non-fatigued, high torque contractions. To establish a clearer understanding of motor unit control during fatigue, we compared MUAP amplitude during 50 and 80% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) torque contractions and at the beginning, middle, and end of a 30% MVC fatigue protocol. METHODS Eleven untrained men (mean age = 24 years) performed isometric contractions at 50 and 80% MVC, followed by repeated contractions at 30% MVC. Surface electromyographic (EMG) signals were detected from the vastus lateralis and decomposed to quantify the peak-to-peak amplitude of individual MUAPs. A two-level multilevel model was estimated, allowing examination of simultaneous measures of MUAP amplitude within participants and controlling for the dependence between measures within participants. RESULTS Results from the multilevel analyses suggested that there were not statistically significant differences in MUAP amplitude between 80% MVC and end fatigue. Separate repeated-measures analyses of variance indicated that there were not statistically significant mean differences in greatest MUAP or surface EMG amplitude between 80% MVC and end fatigue. CONCLUSIONS MUAP and surface EMG amplitude values during a 30% MVC fatiguing protocol appear to be comparable to those observed during a non-fatigued 80% MVC condition.
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Hernandez-Sarabia JA, Luera MJ, Barrera-Curiel A, Estrada CA, DeFreitas JM. Does strict validation criteria for individual motor units alter population-based regression models of the motor unit pool? Exp Brain Res 2020; 238:2475-2485. [PMID: 32844233 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-020-05906-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if the implementation of a strict validation procedure, designed to limit the inclusion of inaccuracies from the decomposition of surface electromyographic (sEMG) signals, affects population-based motor unit (MU) analyses. Four sEMG signals were obtained from the vastus lateralis of 59 participants during isometric contractions at different relative intensities [30%, 70%, and 100% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)], and its individual motor unit potential trains (MUPTs) were extracted. The MUPTs were then excluded (ISIval) based on the coefficient of variation and histogram of the interspike intervals (ISI), the absence of additional clusters that reveals missed or additional firings, and more. MU population-based regression models (i.e., modeling the entire motor unit pool) were performed between motor unit potential size (MUPSIZE), mean firing rate (MFR), and recruitment threshold (RT%) separately for DSDCOnly (includes all MUPTs without the additional validation performed) and ISIval data at each contraction intensity. The only significant difference in regression coefficients between DSDCOnly and ISIval was for the intercepts of the MUPSIZE/MFR at 100% MVC. The validation had no other significant effect on any of the other regression coefficients for each of the contraction intensities. Our findings suggest that even though the decomposition of surface signals leads to some inaccuracies, these errors have limited effects on the regression models used to estimate the behavior of the whole pool. Therefore, we propose that motor unit population-based regression models may be robust enough to overcome decomposition-induced errors at the individual MU level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Micheal J Luera
- School of Kinesiology, Tarleton State University, Stephenville, TX, USA
| | - Alejandra Barrera-Curiel
- Posture and Gait Neuromechanics Laboratory, California State University Bakersfield, Bakersfield, CA, USA
| | - Carlos A Estrada
- School of Education and Human Performance, Aurora University, Aurora, IL, USA
| | - Jason M DeFreitas
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.
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A focused review of myokines as a potential contributor to muscle hypertrophy from resistance-based exercise. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:941-959. [PMID: 32144492 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04337-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Resistance exercise induces muscle growth and is an important treatment for age-related losses in muscle mass and strength. Myokines are hypothesized as a signal conveying physiological information to skeletal muscle, possibly to "fine-tune" other regulatory pathways. While myokines are released from skeletal muscle following contraction, their role in increasing muscle mass and strength in response to resistance exercise or training is not established. Recent research identified both local and systemic release of myokines after an acute bout of resistance exercise. However, it is not known whether myokines with putative anabolic function are mechanistically involved in producing muscle hypertrophy after resistance exercise. Further, nitric oxide (NO), an important mediator of muscle stem cell activation, upregulates the expression of certain myokine genes in skeletal muscle. METHOD In the systemic context of complex hypertrophic signaling, this review: (1) summarizes literature on several well-recognized, representative myokines with anabolic potential; (2) explores the potential mechanistic role of myokines in skeletal muscle hypertrophy; and (3) identifies future research required to advance our understanding of myokine anabolism specifically in skeletal muscle. RESULT This review establishes a link between myokines and NO production, and emphasizes the importance of considering systemic release of potential anabolic myokines during resistance exercise as complementary to other signals that promote hypertrophy. CONCLUSION Investigating adaptations to resistance exercise in aging opens a novel avenue of interdisciplinary research into myokines and NO metabolites during resistance exercise, with the longer-term goal to improve muscle health in daily living, aging, and rehabilitation.
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Herda TJ, Ryan ED, Kohlmeier M, Trevino MA, Gerstner GR, Roelofs EJ, Miller JD. Muscle cross‐sectional area and motor unit properties of the medial gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis in normal weight and overfat children. Exp Physiol 2020; 105:335-346. [DOI: 10.1113/ep088181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Trent J. Herda
- Neuromechanics LaboratoryUniversity of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - Eric D. Ryan
- Neuromuscular Research LaboratoryDepartment of Exercise Science and Sport ScienceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill NC USA
- Human Movement Science CurriculumUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill NC USA
| | - Martin Kohlmeier
- Department of Nutrition, School of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill NC USA
- Nutrigenetics LaboratoryUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kannapolis NC USA
| | - Michael A. Trevino
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology LaboratoryDepartment of Health and Human PerformanceOklahoma State University Stillwater OK USA
| | - Gena R. Gerstner
- Department of Human Movement SciencesOld Dominion University Norfolk VA USA
| | - Erica J. Roelofs
- School of KinesiologyUniversity of Minnesota Twin Cities Minneapolis MN USA
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Sterczala AJ, Miller JD, Dimmick HL, Wray ME, Trevino MA, Herda TJ. Eight weeks of resistance training increases strength, muscle cross-sectional area and motor unit size, but does not alter firing rates in the vastus lateralis. Eur J Appl Physiol 2019; 120:281-294. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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The effect of rate of torque development on motor unit recruitment and firing rates during isometric voluntary trapezoidal contractions. Exp Brain Res 2019; 237:2653-2664. [DOI: 10.1007/s00221-019-05612-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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16
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Tomko PM, Colquhoun RJ, Banks NF, Magrini MA, Muddle TWD, Jenkins NDM. Maximal contraction methods influence the magnitude and reliability of global electromyographic signal characteristics. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2019; 48:121-127. [PMID: 31344640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose was two-fold: (1) to examine differences in maximal voluntary isometric torque (MVIT) production, and electromyographic signal amplitude (EMGAMP) and mean power frequency (EMGMPF) values obtained during traditional (MVICTRAD), rapid (MVICRAPID), and ramp (MVICRAMP) maximal voluntary isometric contractions, and (2) to determine if there were differences in the reliability of MVIT, EMGAMP and EMGMPF among the three MVIC types. APPROACH Twenty-two young males and females completed MVICTRAD, MVICRAPID, and MVICRAMP muscle actions on two separate visits separated by 48 h. During all MVICs, MVIT and EMGAMP and EMGMPF of the vastus lateralis (VL) and rectus femoris (RF) were quantified. MAIN RESULTS MVIT was greater during MVICTRAD and MVICRAPID than during MVITRAMP (both p < 0.001). VL and RF EMGAMP were greater during MVICRAMP than during MVICRAPID (p = 0.02 and 0.004). For EMGMPF, there were no significant differences among MVIC types. Although all MVIC types generally resulted in reliable measurements of MVIT and EMGAMP, reliability was stronger for EMGMPF quantified during the MVICRAMP. SIGNIFICANCE Investigators may choose MVIC type based on preference or equipment availability. However, investigators should note that MVICRAMP contractions will likely yield the greatest EMGAMP values and more reliable measurements of VL and RF EMGMPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Tomko
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, United States
| | - Ryan J Colquhoun
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, United States
| | - Nile F Banks
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, United States
| | - Mitchel A Magrini
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, United States
| | - Tyler W D Muddle
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, United States
| | - Nathaniel D M Jenkins
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University, United States.
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17
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Motor unit firing rates of the first dorsal interosseous differ between male and female children aged 8-10 years. Hum Mov Sci 2019; 66:416-424. [PMID: 31174016 DOI: 10.1016/j.humov.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine possible differences in motor unit action potential amplitudes (MUAPAMPS) and firing rates of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) in male and female children aged 8-10 years. Eight male (mean ± SD, age = 8.8 ± 0.7 yrs; BMI = 16.5 ± 1.3 kg/m2) and eight female (age = 9.3 ± 0.9 yrs; BMI = 16.1 ± 1.5 kg/m2) children volunteered to complete isometric trapezoidal muscle actions of the first dorsal interosseous at 50% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Electromyographic signals were decomposed to yield MUAPAMPS and mean firing rates (MFR) at the targeted force. An exponential model was fitted to the MUAPAMPS vs. recruitment threshold (RT) while linear models were fitted to the MFRs vs. RT relationships for each subject. Ultrasonography determined the muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) of the FDI. Independent samples t-tests were used to examine possible differences between the male and female children for MVC strength, CSA, and the coefficients from the MU relationships. There were no differences in MVC strength, CSA, or the MUAPAMP vs. RT relationships between the male and female children (P < 0.05). Males, however, had greater MFRs of lower-threshold MUs as evident by significantly larger y-intercepts (P = 0.019) and more negative slopes (P = 0.004) from the MFR vs. RT relationships. Despite no differences in muscle strength, CSA, and MUAPAMPS, differences in firing rates existed between male and female children aged 8-10 years. Neural mechanisms may primarily contribute to sex-related differences in firing rates.
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18
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Trevino MA, Sterczala AJ, Miller JD, Wray ME, Dimmick HL, Ciccone AB, Weir JP, Gallagher PM, Fry AC, Herda TJ. Sex-related differences in muscle size explained by amplitudes of higher-threshold motor unit action potentials and muscle fibre typing. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2019; 225:e13151. [PMID: 29908102 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the relationships between motor unit action potential amplitudes (MUAPAMP ), muscle cross-sectional area (mCSA) and composition (mEI), per cent myosin heavy chain (%MHC) areas and sex in the vastus lateralis (VL). METHODS Ten males and 10 females performed a submaximal isometric trapezoid muscle action that included a linearly increasing, steady torque at 40% maximal voluntary contraction, and linearly decreasing segments. Surface electromyographic decomposition techniques were utilized to determine MUAPAMPS in relation to recruitment thresholds (RT). Ultrasound images were taken to quantify muscle mCSA and mEI. Muscle biopsies were collected to calculate %MHC areas. Y-intercepts and slopes were calculated for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships for each subject. Independent-samples t tests and ANOVA models examined sex-related differences in mCSA, mEI, slopes and y-intercepts for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships and %MHC areas. Correlations were performed among type IIA and total type II %MHC area, mCSA and the slopes and y-intercepts for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships. RESULTS Males exhibited greater slopes for the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships (P = .003), mCSA (P < .001) and type IIA %MHC (P = .011), whereas females had greater type I %MHC area (P = .010) and mEI (P = .024). The mCSA, type IIA and total II %MHC area variables were correlated (P < .001-.015, r = .596-.836) with the slopes from the MUAPAMP vs RT relationships. CONCLUSION Sex-related differences in mCSA and MUAPAMPS of the higher-threshold MUs were likely the result of larger muscle fibres expressing type II characteristics for males.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. A. Trevino
- Biodynamics and Human Performance Center Department of Health Sciences Georgia Southern University Savannah GA USA
| | - A. J. Sterczala
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - J. D. Miller
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - M. E. Wray
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - H. L. Dimmick
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - A. B. Ciccone
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - J. P. Weir
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - P. M. Gallagher
- Applied Physiology Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - A. C. Fry
- Applied Physiology Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
| | - T. J. Herda
- Neuromechanics Laboratory Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences University of Kansas Lawrence KS USA
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19
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Enoka RM. Physiological validation of the decomposition of surface EMG signals. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2019; 46:70-83. [PMID: 31003192 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in technology have ushered in a new era in the measurement and interpretation of surface-recorded electromyographic (EMG) signals. These developments have included improvements in detection systems, the algorithms used to decompose the interference signals, and the strategies used to edit the identified waveforms. To evaluate the validity of the results obtained with this new technology, the purpose of this review was to compare the results achieved by decomposing surface-recorded EMG signals into the discharge times of single motor units with what is known about the rate coding characteristics of single motor units based on recordings obtained with intramuscular electrodes. The characteristics compared were peak discharge rate, saturation of discharge rate during submaximal contractions, rate coding during fast contractions, the association between oscillations in force and discharge rate, and adjustments during fatiguing contractions. The comparison indicates that some decomposition methods are able to replicate many of the findings derived from intramuscular recordings, but additional improvements in the methods are required. Critically, more effort needs to be focused on editing the waveforms identified by the decomposition algorithms. With adequate attention to detail, this technology has the potential to augment our knowledge on motor unit physiology and to provide useful approaches that are being translated into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger M Enoka
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA.
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20
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Motor unit action potential amplitudes and firing rates during repetitive muscle actions of the first dorsal interosseous in children and adults. Eur J Appl Physiol 2019; 119:1007-1018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04090-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Colquhoun RJ, Tomko PM, Magrini MA, Muddle TWD, Jenkins NDM. The influence of input excitation on the inter- and intra-day reliability of the motor unit firing rate versus recruitment threshold relationship. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:3131-3139. [PMID: 30355024 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00490.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Decomposition of the surface electromyographic (sEMG) signal is commonly used to examine motor unit (MU) firing behavior. However, the intra- and inter-day reliability of these measurements has yet to be quantified or reported. This investigation 1) examined the effect of input excitation on the mean firing rate (MFR) vs. recruitment threshold (RT) relationship and 2) determined the inter- and intra-day reliability of the MFR vs. RT relationship at 30%, 50%, and 70% of maximum voluntary isometric strength (MVIC). Twenty-eight healthy males (23 ± 3 yr) completed two experimental visits, during which they performed MVIC testing and isometric ramp contractions at 30%, 50%, and 70% MVIC. sEMG signals were recorded from the vastus lateralis during the ramp contractions and decomposed to establish the MFR vs. RT relationship for the detected MUs. Intra- and inter-day reliability was then established for the slopes and y-intercepts of the MFR vs. RT relationship at each contraction intensity. All participants displayed significant MFR vs. RT relationships ( r range: -0.662 to -0.999; P ≤ 0.001-0.006). Intra- and inter-day intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) ranged from 0.766-0.824 and 0.867-0.919 for the slopes and from 0.780-0.915 and 0.804-0.927 for the y-intercepts, respectively. Furthermore, the slope coefficient was significantly greater at 70% than at 30% MVIC, and the y-intercepts increased with increasing contraction intensities. Changes in input excitation to the MU pool alter the magnitude, but not the reliability, of the slopes and y-intercepts of the MFR vs. RT relationship. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The firing behavior of the motor unit (MU) pool is often characterized using the mean firing rate vs. recruitment threshold relationship of the active MUs. Although this relationship has been widely used, this is the first study to report the effects of input excitation (contraction intensity) on the intra- and inter-day reliability of this relationship. The criteria used for MU analysis and the model utilized in this study allow for generalization to outside investigators and laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Colquhoun
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University , Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Patrick M Tomko
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University , Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Mitchel A Magrini
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University , Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Tyler W D Muddle
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University , Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Nathaniel D M Jenkins
- Applied Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Oklahoma State University , Stillwater, Oklahoma
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