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Rock CG, Kwak ST, Luo A, Yang X, Yun K, Chang YH. Realizing the gravity of the simulation: adaptation to simulated hypogravity leads to altered predictive control. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1397016. [PMID: 38854629 PMCID: PMC11157081 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1397016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Accurate predictive abilities are important for a wide variety of animal behaviors. Inherent to many of these predictions is an understanding of the physics that underlie the behavior. Humans are specifically attuned to the physics on Earth but can learn to move in other environments (e.g., the surface of the Moon). However, the adjustments made to their physics-based predictions in the face of altered gravity are not fully understood. The current study aimed to characterize the locomotor adaptation to a novel paradigm for simulated reduced gravity. We hypothesized that exposure to simulated hypogravity would result in updated predictions of gravity-based movement. Twenty participants took part in a protocol that had them perform vertically targeted countermovement jumps before (PRE), during, and after (POST) a physical simulation of hypogravity. Jumping in simulated hypogravity had different neuromechanics from the PRE condition, with reduced ground impulses (p ≤ .009) and muscle activity prior to the time of landing (i.e., preactivation; p ≤ .016). In the 1 g POST condition, muscle preactivation remained reduced (p ≤ .033) and was delayed (p ≤ .008) by up to 33% for most muscles of the triceps surae, reflecting an expectation of hypogravity. The aftereffects in muscle preactivation, along with little-to-no change in muscle dynamics during ground contact, point to a neuromechanical adaptation that affects predictive, feed-forward systems over feedback systems. As such, we conclude that the neural representation, or internal model, of gravity is updated after exposure to simulated hypogravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase G. Rock
- Comparative Neuromechanics Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Young-Hui Chang
- Comparative Neuromechanics Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Saveko A, Bekreneva M, Ponomarev I, Zelenskaya I, Riabova A, Shigueva T, Kitov V, Abu Sheli N, Nosikova I, Rukavishnikov I, Sayenko D, Tomilovskaya E. Impact of different ground-based microgravity models on human sensorimotor system. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1085545. [PMID: 36875039 PMCID: PMC9974674 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1085545] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This review includes current and updated information about various ground-based microgravity models and their impact on the human sensorimotor system. All known models of microgravity are imperfect in a simulation of the physiological effects of microgravity but have their advantages and disadvantages. This review points out that understanding the role of gravity in motion control requires consideration of data from different environments and in various contexts. The compiled information can be helpful to researchers to effectively plan experiments using ground-based models of the effects of space flight, depending on the problem posed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Saveko
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center—Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Waldvogel J, Freyler K, Helm M, Monti E, Stäudle B, Gollhofer A, Narici MV, Ritzmann R, Albracht K. Changes in gravity affect neuromuscular control, biomechanics, and muscle-tendon mechanics in energy storage and dissipation tasks. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 134:190-202. [PMID: 36476161 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00279.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates neuromechanical control and muscle-tendon interaction during energy storage and dissipation tasks in hypergravity. During parabolic flights, while 17 subjects performed drop jumps (DJs) and drop landings (DLs), electromyography (EMG) of the lower limb muscles was combined with in vivo fascicle dynamics of the gastrocnemius medialis, two-dimensional (2D) kinematics, and kinetics to measure and analyze changes in energy management. Comparisons were made between movement modalities executed in hypergravity (1.8 G) and gravity on ground (1 G). In 1.8 G, ankle dorsiflexion, knee joint flexion, and vertical center of mass (COM) displacement are lower in DJs than in DLs; within each movement modality, joint flexion amplitudes and COM displacement demonstrate higher values in 1.8 G than in 1 G. Concomitantly, negative peak ankle joint power, vertical ground reaction forces, and leg stiffness are similar between both movement modalities (1.8 G). In DJs, EMG activity in 1.8 G is lower during the COM deceleration phase than in 1 G, thus impairing quasi-isometric fascicle behavior. In DLs, EMG activity before and during the COM deceleration phase is higher, and fascicles are stretched less in 1.8 G than in 1 G. Compared with the situation in 1 G, highly task-specific neuromuscular activity is diminished in 1.8 G, resulting in fascicle lengthening in both movement modalities. Specifically, in DJs, a high magnitude of neuromuscular activity is impaired, resulting in altered energy storage. In contrast, in DLs, linear stiffening of the system due to higher neuromuscular activity combined with lower fascicle stretch enhances the buffering function of the tendon, and thus the capacity to safely dissipate energy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY For the first time, the neuromechanics of distinct movement modalities that fundamentally differ in their energy management function have been investigated during overload systematically induced by hypergravity. Parabolic flight provides a unique experimental setting that allows near-natural movement execution without the confounding effects typically associated with load variation. Our findings show that gravity-adjusted muscle activities are inversely affected within jumps and landings. Specifically, in 1.8 G, typical task-specific differences in neuromuscular activity are reduced during the center of mass deceleration phase, resulting in fascicle lengthening, which is associated with energy dissipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice Waldvogel
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Freyler
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Helm
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elena Monti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Science, University of Chieti "G. D'annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Benjamin Stäudle
- Department of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany
| | - Albert Gollhofer
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco V Narici
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Ramona Ritzmann
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten Albracht
- Department of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany.,Institute of Movement and Neurosciences, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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4
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Gambelli CN, Schepens B. Motor control of landing in an unsteady environment. Gait Posture 2022; 95:235-241. [PMID: 33246775 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2020.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When landing from a jump or a drop, muscles contract before touchdown to anticipate imminent collision with the ground, soften ground contact and allow to return to a stable standing position without stepping or rebounding. RESEARCH QUESTION This study assesses the effect of the unsteadiness of the environment on the motor control of landing. The 'unsteady environment' was induced by asking participants to perform drop landings inside an aircraft that underwent trajectories parallel to Earth's surface. The participants also performed the same task in a 'steady environment' in our laboratory. METHODS Ground reaction forces, lower limb joints' movements and the activity of lower limb muscles were recorded. The stability of the landing was assessed by the vertical and anterior-posterior stability indexes, center of pressure measures and by the coefficient of variation of kinetic and kinematic parameters. RESULTS On one hand, participants slowdown their joint movements and reduce the knee joint excursion during landing, probably to avoid excessive movements that may induce imbalance. On the other hand, the stability of the landing is reduced while the variability of the movement is increased, illustrating a less stable and less consistent landing. In addition, whatever the environment, landing parameters associated with increased stiffness (i.e., increased impact forces and decreased joint range of motion) are correlated with decreased landing stability. SIGNIFICANCE Overall, landings in the'unsteady environment' appear to be more cautious but less stable and less finely tuned. Since the stability of the landing is not directly influenced by the steadiness of the environment, this more cautious behavior could be, at least in part, related to the fear/apprehension induced by sudden acceleration variations of the frame of the aircraft.
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Affiliation(s)
- C N Gambelli
- Laboratoire Motricité Humain Expertise Sport Santé (LAMHESS), Faculté des Sciences du Sport, Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), Nice, France; Laboratory of Physiology and Biomechanics of Locomotion, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain (UCL), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.
| | - B Schepens
- Laboratory of Physiology and Biomechanics of Locomotion, Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS), Université catholique de Louvain (UCL), Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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5
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Monti E, Waldvogel J, Ritzmann R, Freyler K, Albracht K, Helm M, De Cesare N, Pavan P, Reggiani C, Gollhofer A, Narici MV. Muscle in Variable Gravity: "I Do Not Know Where I Am, But I Know What to Do". Front Physiol 2021; 12:714655. [PMID: 34421657 PMCID: PMC8371909 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.714655] [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: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Fascicle and sarcomere lengths are important predictors of muscle mechanical performance. However, their regulation during stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) activities in usual and challenging conditions is poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate muscle fascicle and sarcomere behavior during drop jumps (a common SSC activity) in conditions of variable gravity. Methods: Fifteen volunteers performed repeated drop jumps in 1 g, hypo-gravity (0 to 1 g), and hyper-gravity (1 to 2 g) during a parabolic flight. Gastrocnemius medialis (GM) electromyographic activity and fascicle length (Lf) were measured at drop-off, ground contact (GC), minimum ankle joint angle (MAJ), and push-off. GM sarcomere number was estimated by dividing Lf, measured by ultrasound at rest, by published data on GM sarcomere length, and measured in vivo at the same joint angle. Changes in sarcomere length were estimated by dividing GM Lf in each jump phase by sarcomere number calculated individually. The sarcomere force-generating capacity in each jump phase was estimated from the sarcomere length-tension relationship previously reported in the literature. Results: The results showed that, regardless of the gravity level, GM sarcomeres operated in the ascending portion of their length-tension relationship in all the jump phases. Interestingly, although in hypo-gravity and hyper-gravity during the braking phase (GC-MAJ) GM fascicles and sarcomeres experienced a stretch (as opposed to the quasi-isometric behavior in 1 g), at MAJ they reached similar lengths as in 1 g, allowing sarcomeres to develop about the 70% of their maximum force. Conclusion: The observed fascicle behavior during drop jumping seems useful for anchoring the tendon, enabling storage of elastic energy and its release in the subsequent push-off phase for effectively re-bouncing in all gravity levels, suggesting that an innate neuromuscular wisdom enables to perform SSC movements also in challenging conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Monti
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Janice Waldvogel
- Department of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ramona Ritzmann
- Department of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Biomechanics, Rennbahnklinik, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Kathrin Freyler
- Department of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten Albracht
- Institute of Movement and Neurosciences, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael Helm
- Department of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Niccolò De Cesare
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Piero Pavan
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Reggiani
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Albert Gollhofer
- Department of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Hagio S, Nakazato M, Kouzaki M. Modulation of spatial and temporal modules in lower limb muscle activations during walking with simulated reduced gravity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14749. [PMID: 34285306 PMCID: PMC8292403 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gravity plays a crucial role in shaping patterned locomotor output to maintain dynamic stability during locomotion. The present study aimed to clarify the gravity-dependent regulation of modules that organize multiple muscle activities during walking in humans. Participants walked on a treadmill at seven speeds (1-6 km h-1 and a subject- and gravity-specific speed determined by the Froude number (Fr) corresponding to 0.25) while their body weight was partially supported by a lift to simulate walking with five levels of gravity conditions from 0.07 to 1 g. Modules, i.e., muscle-weighting vectors (spatial modules) and phase-dependent activation coefficients (temporal modules), were extracted from 12 lower-limb electromyographic (EMG) activities in each gravity (Fr ~ 0.25) using nonnegative matrix factorization. Additionally, a tensor decomposition model was fit to the EMG data to quantify variables depending on the gravity conditions and walking speed with prescribed spatial and temporal modules. The results demonstrated that muscle activity could be explained by four modules from 1 to 0.16 g and three modules at 0.07 g, and the modules were shared for both spatial and temporal components among the gravity conditions. The task-dependent variables of the modules acting on the supporting phase linearly decreased with decreasing gravity, whereas that of the module contributing to activation prior to foot contact showed nonlinear U-shaped modulation. Moreover, the profiles of the gravity-dependent modulation changed as a function of walking speed. In conclusion, reduced gravity walking was achieved by regulating the contribution of prescribed spatial and temporal coordination in muscle activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Hagio
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-nihonmatsu-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
- Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan.
| | - Makoto Nakazato
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-nihonmatsu-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Motoki Kouzaki
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-nihonmatsu-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
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7
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Waldvogel J, Ritzmann R, Freyler K, Helm M, Monti E, Albracht K, Stäudle B, Gollhofer A, Narici M. The Anticipation of Gravity in Human Ballistic Movement. Front Physiol 2021; 12:614060. [PMID: 33815134 PMCID: PMC8010298 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.614060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Stretch-shortening type actions are characterized by lengthening of the pre-activated muscle-tendon unit (MTU) in the eccentric phase immediately followed by muscle shortening. Under 1 g, pre-activity before and muscle activity after ground contact, scale muscle stiffness, which is crucial for the recoil properties of the MTU in the subsequent push-off. This study aimed to examine the neuro-mechanical coupling of the stretch-shortening cycle in response to gravity levels ranging from 0.1 to 2 g. During parabolic flights, 17 subjects performed drop jumps while electromyography (EMG) of the lower limb muscles was combined with ultrasound images of the gastrocnemius medialis, 2D kinematics and kinetics to depict changes in energy management and performance. Neuro-mechanical coupling in 1 g was characterized by high magnitudes of pre-activity and eccentric muscle activity allowing an isometric muscle behavior during ground contact. EMG during pre-activity and the concentric phase systematically increased from 0.1 to 1 g. Below 1 g the EMG in the eccentric phase was diminished, leading to muscle lengthening and reduced MTU stretches. Kinetic energy at take-off and performance were decreased compared to 1 g. Above 1 g, reduced EMG in the eccentric phase was accompanied by large MTU and muscle stretch, increased joint flexion amplitudes, energy loss and reduced performance. The energy outcome function established by linear mixed model reveals that the central nervous system regulates the extensor muscles phase- and load-specifically. In conclusion, neuro-mechanical coupling appears to be optimized in 1 g. Below 1 g, the energy outcome is compromised by reduced muscle stiffness. Above 1 g, loading progressively induces muscle lengthening, thus facilitating energy dissipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice Waldvogel
- Department of Sport and Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ramona Ritzmann
- Department of Sport and Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Biomechanics, Rennbahnklinik, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Kathrin Freyler
- Department of Sport and Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Helm
- Department of Sport and Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elena Monti
- Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Kirsten Albracht
- Faculty of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany.,Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopedics, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Institute of Movement and Neurosciences, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Benjamin Stäudle
- Faculty of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany
| | - Albert Gollhofer
- Department of Sport and Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco Narici
- Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Myology Centre 'CIR-Myo', Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Di Giminiani R, Giovannelli A, Capuano L, Izzicupo P, Di Blasio A, Masedu F. Neuromuscular Strategies in Stretch-Shortening Exercises with Increasing Drop Heights: The Role of Muscle Coactivation in Leg Stiffness and Power Propulsion. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228647. [PMID: 33233323 PMCID: PMC7700220 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
When applying drop jump exercises, knowing the magnitude of the stimulus is fundamental to stabilize the leg joints and to generate movements with the highest power. The effects of different drop heights on leg muscles coactivation, leg stiffness and power propulsion were investigated in fifteen sport science students. Drop jumps from heights of 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 cm in a random order were performed on a force platform. During each drop jump, the ground reaction force, knee angle displacement, and synchronized surface-electromyography root-mean-square (sEMGRMS) activity (vastus lateralis, VL; vastus medialis, VM; rectus femoris, RF; biceps femoris, BF; tibialis anterior, TA and lateral gastrocnemius, LG) were recorded. The coactivation in the pre-contact phase, between VL and BF, VM and BF as well as RF and BF, was dependent on the drop height (p < 0.01; effect size (ES) ranged from 0.45 to 0.90). Leg stiffness was dependent on the drop height (p < 0.001; ES = 0.27-0.28) and was modulated by the coactivation of VM-BF (p = 0.034) and RF-BF (p = 0.046) during the braking phase. Power propulsion was also dependent on the drop height (p < 0.001; ES = 0.34); however, it was primarily modulated by the coactivation of LG-TA during the braking phase (p = 0.002). The coactivation of thigh muscles explains leg stiffness adjustments at different drop heights. On the contrary, the coactivation of shank muscles is mostly responsible for the power propulsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Di Giminiani
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Aldo Giovannelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Lorenzo Capuano
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Pascal Izzicupo
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (P.I.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Andrea Di Blasio
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University “G. D’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (P.I.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Francesco Masedu
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.G.); (L.C.); (F.M.)
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Control of landing under conditions of height-induced threat. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:1827-1839. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04413-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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10
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Helm M, Freyler K, Waldvogel J, Lauber B, Gollhofer A, Ritzmann R. Anticipation of drop height affects neuromuscular control and muscle-tendon mechanics. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2019; 30:46-63. [PMID: 31487062 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the effect of drop height on neuromechanical control of the plantarflexors in drop jumps (DJs) before and during ground contact (GC). The effect of anticipation on muscle mechanical configurations was investigated in 22 subjects in three conditions (20, 30, and 40 cm): (i) known, (ii) unknown, or (iii) cheat falling heights (announced 40 cm, but actual drop height was 20 cm). Electromyographic (EMG) activity of the m. gastrocnemius medialis (GM) and other shank muscles was recorded and analyzed before GC and during GC separately for the short-, medium-, and long-latency responses (SLR, MLR, and LLR). Changes in GM fascicle length (LM ) were determined via B-mode ultrasound, and muscle-tendon unit length (LMTU ) was estimated. Peak force (P < .001), rate of force development (RFD) (P = .001) and GM EMG activity prior to (P = .003) and during GC (P = .007) was reduced in the unknown compared with the known conditions (P < .05). The amount of shortening in LMTU during GC in unknown and cheat was less compared with the known conditions (P = .005; P = .049). Changes in LMTU lengthening negatively correlated with changes in GM activity around SLR and MLR (P = .006; P = .02) in known and unknown conditions. Taken together, it seems that the central nervous system applies a protective strategy in the unknown condition by reducing muscle activity to result in a lower muscular stiffness and increased tendinous lengthening prior to and during GC. This might be a mechanism to absorb greater elastic energy in the tendon and reduce the magnitude and rate of muscle lengthening and subsequent stretch-induced muscle damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Helm
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Freyler
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janice Waldvogel
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Lauber
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Neurosciences and Movement Sciences, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Albert Gollhofer
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ramona Ritzmann
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Praxisklinik Rennbahn AG, Muttenz, Switzerland
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11
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Helm M, Freyler K, Waldvogel J, Gollhofer A, Ritzmann R. The relationship between leg stiffness, forces and neural control of the leg musculature during the stretch-shortening cycle is dependent on the anticipation of drop height. Eur J Appl Physiol 2019; 119:1981-1999. [PMID: 31367910 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04186-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed at investigating how prior knowledge of drop heights affects proactive and reactive motor control in drop jumps (DJ). METHODS In 22 subjects, the effect of knowledge of three different drop heights (20, 30, 40 cm) during DJs was evaluated in seven conditions: three different drop heights were either known, unknown or cheated (announced 40 cm, but actual drop height was 20 cm). Peak ground reaction force (Fmax) to body weight (BW) ratio (Fmax/BW) and electromyographic (EMG) activities of three shank and five thigh muscles were assessed 150 ms before and during ground contact (GC). Ankle, knee and hip joint kinematics were recorded in the sagittal plane. RESULTS Leg stiffness, proactive and reactive EMG activity of the leg muscles diminished in unknown and cheat conditions for all drop heights (7-33% and 2-26%, respectively). Antagonistic co-activation increased in unknown (3-37%). At touchdown, increased flexion in knee (~ 5.3° ± 1.9°) and hip extension (~ 2° ± 0.6°) were observed in unknown, followed by an increased angular excursion in hip (~ 2.3° ± 0.2°) and knee joints (~ 5.6° ± 0.2°) during GC (p < 0.05). Correlations between changes in activation intensities, joint kinematics, leg stiffness and Fmax/BW (p < 0.05) indicate that anticipation changes the neuromechanical coupling of DJs. No dropouts were recorded. CONCLUSION These findings underline that anticipation influences timing and adjustment of motor responses. It is argued that proactive and reactive modulations associated with diminished activation intensities in leg extensors are functionally relevant in explaining changes in leg stiffness and subsequent decline in performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Helm
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstr. 175, 79117, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Kathrin Freyler
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstr. 175, 79117, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janice Waldvogel
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstr. 175, 79117, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Albert Gollhofer
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstr. 175, 79117, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ramona Ritzmann
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstr. 175, 79117, Freiburg, Germany
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Changes in Lower-Limb Biomechanics, Soft Tissue Vibrations, and Muscle Activation During Unanticipated Bipedal Landings. J Hum Kinet 2019; 67:25-35. [PMID: 31523304 PMCID: PMC6714375 DOI: 10.2478/hukin-2019-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to explore the biomechanical differences between the anticipated drop jump and unanticipated drop landing. Twelve male collegiate basketball players completed an anticipated drop jump and unanticipated drop landing with double legs from a height of 30 cm. Kinematics, impact force, soft tissue vibrations, and electromyographic (EMG) amplitudes of the dominant leg were collected simultaneously. The anticipated drop jump showed more flexed lower limbs during landing and increased range of motion compared to the unanticipated drop landing. The anticipated drop jump also had lower impact force, lesser soft tissue vibration, and a greater damp coefficient at the thigh muscles compared with the unanticipated drop landing. Significant increases in the EMG amplitudes of the tibialis anterior, lateral gastrocnemius, rectus femoris, and biceps femoris were observed in the anticipated drop jump during the pre/post-activation and downward phases. The anticipated drop jump presented more optimized landing posture control with more joint flexion, lower impact force, less soft tissue vibrations, and full preparation of muscle activations compared with the unanticipated drop landing.
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Ritzmann R, Freyler K, Helm M, Holubarsch J, Gollhofer A. Stumbling Reactions in Partial Gravity - Neuromechanics of Compensatory Postural Responses and Inter-Limb Coordination During Perturbation of Human Stance. Front Physiol 2019; 10:576. [PMID: 31164834 PMCID: PMC6536696 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous changes in gravity play a significant role in interplanetary space missions. To preserve the astronauts’ capability to execute mission-critical tasks and reduce the risk of injury in transit and on planetary surfaces, a comprehensive understanding of the neuromuscular control of postural responses after balance deterioration in hypo- or hyper-gravity conditions is essential. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of acute gravitational variation on postural adjustments in response to perturbations. Gravitational changes were induced using parabolic flight. Postural set was manipulated by randomly providing unilateral left, bilateral or split perturbations which require balance corrections to restore postural stability. In six subjects, postural reactions were recorded after anterior and posterior surface perturbations for progressively increased gravitational conditions spanning from 0.25 to 1.75 g. Ankle and knee joint kinematics and electromyograms (EMG) of eight leg muscles were recorded prior (PRE) and after perturbation onset. Muscle activation onset latencies and amplitudes in the short-, medium-, and long-latency responses (SLR, MLR, LLR) were assessed. Results demonstrate an increased muscle activity (p < 0.05) and co-contraction in the lower extremities (p < 0.05) prior to perturbation in hypo- and hyper-gravity. After perturbation, reduced muscle onset latencies (p < 0.05) and increased muscle activations in the MLR and LLR (p < 0.05), concomitant with an increased co-contraction in the SLR, were manifested with a progressive rise in gravity. Ankle and knee joint deflections remained unaffected, whereas angular velocities increased (p < 0.05) with increasing gravitation. Effects were more pronounced in bi- compared to unilateral or split perturbations (p < 0.05). Neuro-mechanical adaptations to gravity were more distinct and muscle onset latencies were shorter in the displaced compared to the non-displaced leg. In conclusion, the timing and magnitude of postural reflexes involved in stabilization of bipedal stance are gravity-dependent. The approximately linear relationship between gravity and impulse-directed EMG amplitudes or muscle onset latencies after perturbation indicates that the central nervous system correctly predicts the level of gravity. Moreover, it accurately governs contractions in the antigravity musculature to counterbalance the gravitational pull and to regain upright posture after its disturbance. Importantly, unilateral perturbations evoked fast reflex responses in the synergistic muscles of the non-displaced contralateral leg suggesting a synchronized inter-limb coordination mediated by spinal circuitries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramona Ritzmann
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Praxisklinik Rennbahn AG, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Kathrin Freyler
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Helm
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janek Holubarsch
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Albert Gollhofer
- Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko YP, Sylos-Labini F, La Scaleia V, La Scaleia B, Willems PA, Zago M. Human Locomotion in Hypogravity: From Basic Research to Clinical Applications. Front Physiol 2017; 8:893. [PMID: 29163225 PMCID: PMC5682019 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
We have considerable knowledge about the mechanisms underlying compensation of Earth gravity during locomotion, a knowledge obtained from physiological, biomechanical, modeling, developmental, comparative, and paleoanthropological studies. By contrast, we know much less about locomotion and movement in general under sustained hypogravity. This lack of information poses a serious problem for human space exploration. In a near future humans will walk again on the Moon and for the first time on Mars. It would be important to predict how they will move around, since we know that locomotion and mobility in general may be jeopardized in hypogravity, especially when landing after a prolonged weightlessness of the space flight. The combination of muscle weakness, of wearing a cumbersome spacesuit, and of maladaptive patterns of locomotion in hypogravity significantly increase the risk of falls and injuries. Much of what we currently know about locomotion in hypogravity derives from the video archives of the Apollo missions on the Moon, the experiments performed with parabolic flight or with body weight support on Earth, and the theoretical models. These are the topics of our review, along with the issue of the application of simulated hypogravity in rehabilitation to help patients with deambulation problems. We consider several issues that are common to the field of space science and clinical rehabilitation: the general principles governing locomotion in hypogravity, the methods used to reduce gravity effects on locomotion, the extent to which the resulting behavior is comparable across different methods, the important non-linearities of several locomotor parameters as a function of the gravity reduction, the need to use multiple methods to obtain reliable results, and the need to tailor the methods individually based on the physiology and medical history of each person.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lacquaniti
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Yury P. Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina La Scaleia
- Center of Space BioMedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara La Scaleia
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrick A. Willems
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Physiology of Locomotion, Institute of NeuroScience, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Myrka Zago
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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