@article{WerkhausenWillwacherAlbracht2021,
  author    = {Werkhausen, Amelie and Willwacher, Steffen and Albracht, Kirsten},
  title     = {Medial gastrocnemius muscle fascicles shorten throughout stance during sprint acceleration},
  series = {Scandinavian Journal of Medicine \& Science in Sports},
  volume    = {31},
  journal   = {Scandinavian Journal of Medicine \& Science in Sports},
  number    = {7},
  publisher = {Wiley-Blackwell},
  address   = {Oxford},
  issn      = {0905-7188 (Druckausgabe)},
  doi       = {10.1111/sms.13956},
  pages     = {1471 -- 1480},
  year      = {2021},
  abstract  = {The compliant nature of distal limb muscle-tendon units is traditionally considered suboptimal in explosive movements when positive joint work is required. However, during accelerative running, ankle joint net mechanical work is positive. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how plantar flexor muscle-tendon behavior is modulated during fast accelerations. Eleven female sprinters performed maximum sprint accelerations from starting blocks, while gastrocnemius muscle fascicle lengths were estimated using ultrasonography. We combined motion analysis and ground reaction force measurements to assess lower limb joint kinematics and kinetics, and to estimate gastrocnemius muscle-tendon unit length during the first two acceleration steps. Outcome variables were resampled to the stance phase and averaged across three to five trials. Relevant scalars were extracted and analyzed using one-sample and two-sample t-tests, and vector trajectories were compared using statistical parametric mapping. We found that an uncoupling of muscle fascicle behavior from muscle-tendon unit behavior is effectively used to produce net positive mechanical work at the joint during maximum sprint acceleration. Muscle fascicles shortened throughout the first and second steps, while shortening occurred earlier during the first step, where negative joint work was lower compared with the second step. Elastic strain energy may be stored during dorsiflexion after touchdown since fascicles did not lengthen at the same time to dissipate energy. Thus, net positive work generation is accommodated by the reuse of elastic strain energy along with positive gastrocnemius fascicle work. Our results show a mechanism of how muscles with high in-series compliance can contribute to net positive joint work.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{MontiWaldvogelRitzmannetal.2021,
  author    = {Monti, Elena and Waldvogel, Janice and Ritzmann, Ramona and Freyler, Kathrin and Albracht, Kirsten and Helm, Michael and De Cesare, Niccol{\`o} and Pavan, Piero and Reggiani, Carlo and Gollhofer, Albert and Narici, Marco Vincenzo},
  title     = {Muscle in variable gravity: "I do not know where I am, but I know what to do"},
  series = {Frontiers in Physiology},
  volume    = {12},
  journal   = {Frontiers in Physiology},
  publisher = {Frontiers Research Foundation},
  address   = {Lausanne},
  issn      = {1664-042X},
  doi       = {10.3389/fphys.2021.714655},
  pages     = {19 Seiten},
  year      = {2021},
  abstract  = {Performing tasks, such as running and jumping, requires activation of the agonist and antagonist muscles before (motor unit pre-activation) and during movement performance (Santello and Mcdonagh, 1998). A well-timed and regulated muscle activation elicits a stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) response, naturally occurring in bouncing movements (Ishikawa and Komi, 2004; Taube et al., 2012). By definition, the SSC describes the stretching of a pre-activated muscle-tendon complex immediately followed by a muscle shortening in the concentric push-off phase (Komi, 1984). Given the importance of SSC actions for human movement, it is not surprising that many studies investigated the biomechanics of this phenomenon; in particular, drop jumps (DJs) represent a good paradigm to study muscle fascicle and tendon behavior in ballistic movements involving the SSC. Within a DJ, three main phases [pre-activation, braking, and push-off (PO; Komi, 2000)] have been recognized and extensively studied in common and challenging conditions, such as changes in load, falling height, or simulated hypo-gravity (Avela et al., 1994; Arampatzis et al., 2001; Fukashiro et al., 2005; Ishikawa et al., 2005; Sousa et al., 2007; Ritzmann et al., 2016; Helm et al., 2020). These studies show that the timing and amount of triceps-surae muscle-tendon unit pre-activation in DJs are differentially regulated based on the load applied to the muscle, being optimal in normal "Earth" gravity conditions (Avela et al., 1994), but decreased in simulated hypo-gravity, hyper-gravity (Avela et al., 1994; Ritzmann et al., 2016), or unknown conditions (i.e., unknown falling heights; Helm et al., 2020). Some authors indicated that, when falling from heights different from the optimal one [defined as the drop height giving a maximum DJ performance indicated as peak ground reaction force (GRF) or jump high], electromyographic (EMG) activity of the plantar flexors increases from lower than optimal to higher than optimal heights (Ishikawa and Komi, 2004; Sousa et al., 2007). These findings highlight the ability of the central nervous system to regulate the timing and amount of pre-activation according to different jumping conditions, thus regulating muscle fascicle length, tendon and joint stiffness as well as position, in order to safely land on the ground and quickly re-bounce. Similarly, to pre-activation, also in the braking phase, the plantar flexors are differentially regulated. In optimal height (i.e., load) jumping conditions, gastrocnemius medialis (GM) fascicles shorten at early ground contact (possibly due to the intervention of the stretch reflex; Gollhofer et al., 1992) and behave quasi-isometrically in the late braking phase, enabling tendon elongation, and storage of elastic energy (Gollhofer et al., 1992; Fukashiro et al., 2005; Sousa et al., 2007). When increasing the falling height (augmenting the impact GRF), the quasi-isometric behavior of fascicles disappears, and fast fascicle lengthening occurs (Ishikawa et al., 2005; Sousa et al., 2007). In the third and last PO phase, fascicles shorten and the tendon releases the elastic energy previously stored. Bobbert et al. (1987) reported no influence of jumping height on the work done and on the net vertical impulse assessed during PO; this observation suggests that, despite an optimal DJ performance might be achieved only in specific conditions (falling heights, loads), the central nervous system seems to be able to regulate muscle behavior in order to effectively perform the required task also in challenging situations. Although the regulation of triceps-surae muscle-tendon unit in DJs has been extensively investigated, very few studies focused on sarcomeres behavior during the performance of this SSC movement (Kurokawa et al., 2003; Fukashiro et al., 2005, 2006). Sarcomeres represent muscle contractile units and are known to express different amounts of force depending on their length (Gordon et al., 1966; Walker and Schrodt, 1974); thus, understanding the time course of their responses during DJs is fundamental to gain further insights into muscle force-generating capacity. In vivo measurement of sarcomere length in humans has been so far been performed only in static positions and under highly controlled experimental conditions (Llewellyn et al., 2008; Sanchez et al., 2015). Instead, human sarcomere length estimation (achieved by dividing GM measured fascicle length for a fixed sarcomere number) in dynamic contractions provided an indirect measure of sarcomere operating range during squat jump, countermovement jump, and DJ (Fukashiro et al., 2005, 2006; Kurokawa et al., 2003). The results of these studies showed that sarcomeres operate in the ascending limb of their length-tension (L-T) relationship in all types of jumps, and particularly so in DJ. However, most of the available observations on sarcomere and muscle fascicle behavior were made in condition of constant gravity. Thus, in order to understand how sarcomere and muscle fascicle length are regulated in variable gravity conditions, we performed experiments in a parabolic flight, involving variable gravity levels, ranging from about zero-g to about double the Earth's gravity (1 g; Waldvogel et al., 2021). Specifically, the aims of the present study were as follows: 1. To investigate the ability of the neuromuscular system in regulating fascicle length in response to conditions of variable gravity. 2. To estimate sarcomere operative length in the different DJ phases, in order to calculate its theoretical force production and its possible modulation in conditions of variable gravity. We hypothesized that muscle fascicles would be differentially regulated in different gravity conditions compared to 1 g, particularly in anticipation of landing and re-bouncing in unknown gravity levels. In addition, we hypothesized that sarcomeres would operate in the upper part of the ascending limb of their L-T relationship, possibly lengthening during the braking phase (especially in hyper-gravity) while operating quasi-isometrically in 1 g.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{StaeudleSeynnesLapsetal.2021,
  author    = {St{\"a}udle, Benjamin and Seynnes, Olivier and Laps, Guido and G{\"o}ll, Fabian and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter and Albracht, Kirsten},
  title     = {Recovery from achilles tendon repair: a combination of Postsurgery Outcomes and Insufficient remodeling of muscle and tendon},
  series = {Medicine \& Science in Sports \& Exercise},
  volume    = {53},
  journal   = {Medicine \& Science in Sports \& Exercise},
  number    = {7},
  publisher = {American College of Sports Medicine},
  address   = {Philadelphia, Pa.},
  issn      = {1530-0315},
  doi       = {10.1249/MSS.0000000000002592},
  pages     = {1356 -- 1366},
  year      = {2021},
  abstract  = {Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) patients have persistent functional deficits in the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit (MTU). The complex remodeling of the MTU accompanying these deficits remains poorly understood. The purpose of the present study was to associate in vivo and in silico data to investigate the relations between changes inMTU properties and strength deficits inATR patients. Methods: Elevenmale subjects who had undergone surgical repair of complete unilateral ATR were examined 4.6 ± 2.0 (mean ± SD) yr after rupture. Gastrocnemius medialis (GM) tendon stiffness, morphology, and muscle architecture were determined using ultrasonography. The force-length relation of the plantar flexor muscles was assessed at five ankle joint angles. In addition, simulations (OpenSim) of the GM MTU force-length properties were performed with various iterations of MTU properties found between the unaffected and the affected side. Results: The affected side of the patients displayed a longer, larger, and stiffer GM tendon (13\% ± 10\%, 105\% ± 28\%, and 54\% ± 24\%, respectively) compared with the unaffected side. The GM muscle fascicles of the affected side were shorter (32\% ± 12\%) and with greater pennation angles (31\% ± 26\%). A mean deficit in plantarflexion moment of 31\% ± 10\% was measured. Simulations indicate that pairing an intact muscle with a longer tendon shifts the optimal angular range of peak force outside physiological angular ranges, whereas the shorter muscle fascicles and tendon stiffening seen in the affected side decrease this shift, albeit incompletely. Conclusions: These results suggest that the substantial changes in MTU properties found in ATR patients may partly result from compensatory remodeling, although this process appears insufficient to fully restore muscle function.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{TranStaat2020,
  author    = {Tran, Ngoc Trinh and Staat, Manfred},
  title     = {Direct plastic structural design under lognormally distributed strength by chance constrained programming},
  series = {Optimization and Engineering},
  volume    = {21},
  journal   = {Optimization and Engineering},
  number    = {1},
  publisher = {Springer Nature},
  address   = {Cham},
  issn      = {1573-2924},
  doi       = {10.1007/s11081-019-09437-2},
  pages     = {131 -- 157},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {We propose the so-called chance constrained programming model of stochastic programming theory to analyze limit and shakedown loads of structures under random strength with a lognormal distribution. A dual chance constrained programming algorithm is developed to calculate simultaneously both the upper and lower bounds of the plastic collapse limit and the shakedown limit. The edge-based smoothed finite element method (ES-FEM) is used with three-node linear triangular elements.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{HorbachStaatPerezVianaetal.2020,
  author    = {Horbach, Andreas and Staat, Manfred and Perez-Viana, Daniel and Simmen, Hans-Peter and Neuhaus, Valentin and Pape, Hans-Christoph and Prescher, Andreas and Ciritsis, Bernhard},
  title     = {Biomechanical in vitro examination of a standardized low-volume tubular femoroplasty},
  series = {Clinical Biomechanics},
  volume    = {80},
  journal   = {Clinical Biomechanics},
  number    = {Art. 105104},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2020.105104},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Background Osteoporosis is associated with the risk of fractures near the hip. Age and comorbidities increase the perioperative risk. Due to the ageing population, fracture of the proximal femur also proves to be a socio-economic problem. Preventive surgical measures have hardly been used so far. Methods 10 pairs of human femora from fresh cadavers were divided into control and low-volume femoroplasty groups and subjected to a Hayes fall-loading fracture test. The results of the respective localization and classification of the fracture site, the Singh index determined by computed tomography (CT) examination and the parameters in terms of fracture force, work to fracture and stiffness were evaluated statistically and with the finite element method. In addition, a finite element parametric study with different position angles and variants of the tubular geometry of the femoroplasty was performed. Findings Compared to the control group, the work to fracture could be increased by 33.2\%. The fracture force increased by 19.9\%. The used technique and instrumentation proved to be standardized and reproducible with an average poly(methyl methacrylate) volume of 10.5 ml. The parametric study showed the best results for the selected angle and geometry. Interpretation The cadaver studies demonstrated the biomechanical efficacy of the low-volume tubular femoroplasty. The numerical calculations confirmed the optimal choice of positioning as well as the inner and outer diameter of the tube in this setting. The standardized minimally invasive technique with the instruments developed for it could be used in further comparative studies to confirm the measured biomechanical results.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{AkimbekovDigelSherelkhanetal.2020,
  author    = {Akimbekov, Nuraly S. and Digel, Ilya and Sherelkhan, Dinara K. and Lutfor, Afzalunnessa B. and Razzaque, Mohammed S.},
  title     = {Vitamin D and the Host-Gut Microbiome: A Brief Overview},
  series = {Acta Histochemica et Cytochemica},
  volume    = {53},
  journal   = {Acta Histochemica et Cytochemica},
  number    = {3},
  publisher = {Japan Society of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry},
  address   = {Osaka},
  issn      = {1347-5800},
  doi       = {10.1267/ahc.20011},
  pages     = {33 -- 42},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {There is a growing body of evidence for the effects of vitamin D on intestinal host-microbiome interactions related to gut dysbiosis and bowel inflammation. This brief review highlights the potential links between vitamin D and gut health, emphasizing the role of vitamin D in microbiological and immunological mechanisms of inflammatory bowel diseases. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar using combinations of keywords "vitamin D," "intestines," "gut microflora," "bowel inflammation". Only articles published in English and related to the study topic are included in the review. We discuss how vitamin D (a) modulates intestinal microbiome function, (b) controls antimicrobial peptide expression, and (c) has a protective effect on epithelial barriers in the gut mucosa. Vitamin D and its nuclear receptor (VDR) regulate intestinal barrier integrity, and control innate and adaptive immunity in the gut. Metabolites from the gut microbiota may also regulate expression of VDR, while vitamin D may influence the gut microbiota and exert anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. The underlying mechanism of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of bowel diseases is not fully understood, but maintaining an optimal vitamin D status appears to be beneficial for gut health. Future studies will shed light on the molecular mechanisms through which vitamin D and VDR interactions affect intestinal mucosal immunity, pathogen invasion, symbiont colonization, and antimicrobial peptide expression.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{RamoshabaHuismanLammertynetal.2020,
  author    = {Ramoshaba, Nthai E. and Huisman, Hugo W. and Lammertyn, Leandi and Kotliar, Konstantin and Schutte, Aletta E. and Smith, Wayne},
  title     = {Retinal microvasculature and masked hypertension in young adults: the African-PREDICT study},
  series = {Hypertension Research},
  journal   = {Hypertension Research},
  number    = {43},
  publisher = {Springer Nature},
  address   = {Osaka},
  issn      = {1348-4214},
  doi       = {10.1038/s41440-020-0487-0},
  pages     = {1231 -- 1238},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Masked hypertension is known to induce microvascular complications. However, it is unclear whether early microvascular changes are already occurring in young, otherwise healthy adults. We therefore investigated whether retinal microvascular calibers and acute responses to a flicker stimulus are related to masked hypertension. We used the baseline data of 889 participants aged 20-30 years who were taking part in the African Prospective study on the Early Detection and Identification of Cardiovascular Disease and Hypertension. Clinic and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure were measured. The central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal vein equivalent were calculated from fundus images, and retinal vessel dilation was determined in response to flicker light-induced provocation. A smaller CRAE was observed in those with masked hypertension vs. those with normotension (157.1 vs. 161.2 measuring units, P < 0.001). In forward multivariable-adjusted regression analysis, only CRAE was negatively related to masked hypertension [adjusted R² = 0.267, β = -0.097 (95\% CI = -0.165; -0.029), P = 0.005], but other retinal microvascular parameters were not associated with masked hypertension. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, masked hypertension [OR = 2.333, (95\% CI = 1.316; 4.241), P = 0.004] was associated with a narrower CRAE. In young healthy adults, masked hypertension was associated with retinal arteriolar narrowing, thereby reflecting early microvascular alterations known to predict cardiovascular outcomes in later life.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{AkimbekovQiaoDigeletal.2020,
  author    = {Akimbekov, Nuraly and Qiao, Xiaohui and Digel, Ilya and Abdieva, Gulzhamal and Ualieva, Perizat and Zhubanova, Azhar},
  title     = {The effect of leonardite-derived amendments on soil microbiome structure and potato yield},
  series = {Agriculture},
  volume    = {10},
  journal   = {Agriculture},
  number    = {Art. 147},
  publisher = {MDPI},
  address   = {Basel},
  doi       = {10.3390/agriculture10050147},
  pages     = {1 -- 17},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Humic substances originating from various organic matters can ameliorate soil properties, stimulate plant growth, and improve nutrient uptake. Due to the low calorific heating value, leonardite is rather unsuitable as fuel. However, it may serve as a potential source of humic substances. This study was aimed at characterizing the leonardite-based soil amendments and examining the effect of their application on the soil microbial community, as well as on potato growth and tuber yield. A high yield (71.1\%) of humic acid (LHA) from leonardite has been demonstrated. Parental leonardite (PL) and LHA were applied to soil prior to potato cultivation. The 16S rRNA sequencing of soil samples revealed distinct relationships between microbial community composition and the application of leonardite-based soil amendments. Potato tubers were planted in pots in greenhouse conditions. The tubers were harvested at the mature stage for the determination of growth and yield parameters. The results demonstrated that the LHA treatments had a significant effect on increasing potato growth (54.9\%) and tuber yield (66.4\%) when compared to the control. The findings highlight the importance of amending leonardite-based humic products for maintaining the biogeochemical stability of soils, for keeping their healthy microbial community structure, and for increasing the agronomic productivity of potato plants.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{DachwaldUlamecPostbergetal.2020,
  author    = {Dachwald, Bernd and Ulamec, Stephan and Postberg, Frank and Sohl, Frank and Vera, Jean-Pierre de and Christoph, Waldmann and Lorenz, Ralph D. and Hellard, Hugo and Biele, Jens and Rettberg, Petra},
  title     = {Key technologies and instrumentation for subsurface exploration of ocean worlds},
  series = {Space Science Reviews},
  volume    = {216},
  journal   = {Space Science Reviews},
  number    = {Art. 83},
  publisher = {Springer},
  address   = {Dordrecht},
  issn      = {1572-9672},
  doi       = {10.1007/s11214-020-00707-5},
  pages     = {45},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {In this chapter, the key technologies and the instrumentation required for the subsurface exploration of ocean worlds are discussed. The focus is laid on Jupiter's moon Europa and Saturn's moon Enceladus because they have the highest potential for such missions in the near future. The exploration of their oceans requires landing on the surface, penetrating the thick ice shell with an ice-penetrating probe, and probably diving with an underwater vehicle through dozens of kilometers of water to the ocean floor, to have the chance to find life, if it exists. Technologically, such missions are extremely challenging. The required key technologies include power generation, communications, pressure resistance, radiation hardness, corrosion protection, navigation, miniaturization, autonomy, and sterilization and cleaning. Simpler mission concepts involve impactors and penetrators or - in the case of Enceladus - plume-fly-through missions.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{HeinkeKnickerAlbracht2020,
  author    = {Heinke, Lars N. and Knicker, Axel J. and Albracht, Kirsten},
  title     = {Increased shoulder muscle stretch reflex elicitability in supine subject posture},
  series = {Isokinetics and Exercise Science},
  volume    = {28},
  journal   = {Isokinetics and Exercise Science},
  number    = {2},
  publisher = {IOS Press},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  issn      = {1878-5913},
  doi       = {10.3233/IES-192219},
  pages     = {139 -- 146},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {BACKGROUND: Muscle stretch reflexes are widely used to examine neural muscle function. The knowledge of reflex response in muscles crossing the shoulder is limited. OBJECTIVE: To quantify reflex modulation according to various subject postures and different procedures of muscle pre-activation steering. METHODS: Thirteen healthy male participants performed two sets of external shoulder rotation stretches in various positions and with different procedures of muscle pre-activation steering on an isokinetic dynamometer over a range of two different pre-activation levels. All stretches were applied with a dynamometer acceleration of 104∘/s2 and a velocity of 150∘/s. Electromyographical response was measured via sEMG. RESULTS: Consistent reflexive response was observed in all tested muscles in all experimental conditions. The reflex elicitation rate revealed a significant muscle main effect (F (5,288) = 2.358, ρ= 0.040; η2= 0.039; f= 0.637) and a significant test condition main effect (F (1,288) = 5.884, ρ= 0.016; η2= 0.020; f= 0.143). Reflex latency revealed a significant muscle pre-activation level main effect (F (1,274) = 5.008, ρ= 0.026; η2= 0.018; f= 0.469). CONCLUSION: Muscular reflexive response was more consistent in the primary internal rotators of the shoulder. Supine posture in combination with visual feedback of muscle pre-activation level enhanced the reflex elicitation rate.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{HeinEubanksHibberdetal.2020,
  author    = {Hein, Andreas M. and Eubanks, T. Marshall and Hibberd, Adam and Fries, Dan and Schneider, Jean and Lingam, Manasvi and Kennedy, Robert and Perakis, Nikolaos and Dachwald, Bernd and Kervella, Pierre},
  title     = {Interstellar Now! Missions to and sample returns from nearby interstellar objects},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  pages     = {1 -- 8},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {The recently discovered first high velocity hyperbolic objects passing through the Solar System, 1I/'Oumuamua and 2I/Borisov, have raised the question about near term missions to Interstellar Objects. In situ spacecraft exploration of these objects will allow the direct determination of both their structure and their chemical and isotopic composition, enabling an entirely new way of studying small bodies from outside our solar system. In this paper, we map various Interstellar Object classes to mission types, demonstrating that missions to a range of Interstellar Object classes are feasible, using existing or near-term technology. We describe flyby, rendezvous and sample return missions to interstellar objects, showing various ways to explore these bodies characterizing their surface, dynamics, structure and composition. Interstellar objects likely formed very far from the solar system in both time and space; their direct exploration will constrain their formation and history, situating them within the dynamical and chemical evolution of the Galaxy. These mission types also provide the opportunity to explore solar system bodies and perform measurements in the far outer solar system.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{JungStaat2020,
  author    = {Jung, Alexander and Staat, Manfred},
  title     = {Erratum to "Modeling and simulation of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac tissue" [GAMM-Mitteilungen, (2019), 42, 4, 10.1002/gamm.201900002]},
  series = {GAMM-Mitteilungen},
  volume    = {43},
  journal   = {GAMM-Mitteilungen},
  number    = {4},
  publisher = {Wiley-VCH GmbH},
  address   = {Weinheim},
  issn      = {1522-2608},
  doi       = {10.1002/gamm.202000011},
  year      = {2020},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{RauschHarbrechtKahmannetal.2020,
  author    = {Rausch, Valentin and Harbrecht, Andreas and Kahmann, Stephanie Lucina and Fenten, Thomas and Jovanovic, Nebojsa and Hackl, Michael and M{\"u}ller, Lars P. and Staat, Manfred and Wegmann, Kilian},
  title     = {Osteosynthesis of Phalangeal Fractures: Biomechanical Comparison of Kirschner Wires, Plates, and Compression Screws},
  series = {The Journal of Hand Surgery},
  volume    = {45},
  journal   = {The Journal of Hand Surgery},
  number    = {10},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  issn      = {0363-5023},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.jhsa.2020.04.010},
  pages     = {987.e1 -- 987.e8},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Purpose The aim of this study was to compare several osteosynthesis techniques (intramedullary headless compression screws, T-plates, and Kirschner wires) for distal epiphyseal fractures of proximal phalanges in a human cadaveric model. Methods A total of 90 proximal phalanges from 30 specimens (index, ring, and middle fingers) were used for this study. After stripping off all soft tissue, a transverse distal epiphyseal fracture was simulated at the proximal phalanx. The 30 specimens were randomly assigned to 1 fixation technique (30 per technique), either a 3.0-mm intramedullary headless compression screw, locking plate fixation with a 2.0-mm T-plate, or 2 oblique 1.0-mm Kirschner wires. Displacement analysis (bending, distraction, and torsion) was performed using optical tracking of an applied random speckle pattern after osteosynthesis. Biomechanical testing was performed with increasing cyclic loading and with cyclic load to failure using a biaxial torsion-tension testing machine. Results Cannulated intramedullary compression screws showed significantly less displacement at the fracture site in torsional testing. Furthermore, screws were significantly more stable in bending testing. Kirschner wires were significantly less stable than plating or screw fixation in any cyclic load to failure test setup. Conclusions Intramedullary compression screws are a highly stable alternative in the treatment of transverse distal epiphyseal phalangeal fractures. Kirschner wires seem to be inferior regarding displacement properties and primary stability. Clinical relevance Fracture fixation of phalangeal fractures using plate osteosynthesis may have the advantage of a very rigid reduction, but disadvantages such as stiffness owing to the more invasive surgical approach and soft tissue irritation should be taken into account. Headless compression screws represent a minimally invasive choice for fixation with good biomechanical properties.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{QuittmannMeskemperAlbrachtetal.2020,
  author    = {Quittmann, Oliver J. and Meskemper, Joshua and Albracht, Kirsten and Abel, Thomas and Foitschik, Tina and Str{\"u}der, Heiko K.},
  title     = {Normalising surface EMG of ten upper-extremity muscles in handcycling: Manual resistance vs. sport-specific MVICs},
  series = {Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology},
  volume    = {51},
  journal   = {Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology},
  number    = {Article 102402},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  issn      = {1050-6411},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.jelekin.2020.102402},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Muscular activity in terms of surface electromyography (sEMG) is usually normalised to maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs). This study aims to compare two different MVIC-modes in handcycling and examine the effect of moving average window-size. Twelve able-bodied male competitive triathletes performed ten MVICs against manual resistance and four sport-specific trials against fixed cranks. sEMG of ten muscles [M. trapezius (TD); M. pectoralis major (PM); M. deltoideus, Pars clavicularis (DA); M. deltoideus, Pars spinalis (DP); M. biceps brachii (BB); M. triceps brachii (TB); forearm flexors (FC); forearm extensors (EC); M. latissimus dorsi (LD) and M. rectus abdominis (RA)] was recorded and filtered using moving average window-sizes of 150, 200, 250 and 300 ms. Sport-specific MVICs were higher compared to manual resistance for TB, DA, DP and LD, whereas FC, TD, BB and RA demonstrated lower values. PM and EC demonstrated no significant difference between MVIC-modes. Moving average window-size had no effect on MVIC outcomes. MVIC-mode should be taken into account when normalised sEMG data are illustrated in handcycling. Sport-specific MVICs seem to be suitable for some muscles (TB, DA, DP and LD), but should be augmented by MVICs against manual/mechanical resistance for FC, TD, BB and RA.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{MalanHamerKaeneletal.2020,
  author    = {Malan, Leone and Hamer, Mark and K{\"a}nel, Roland von and Kotliar, Konstantin and Wyk, Roelof D. van and Lambert, Gavin W. and Vilser, Walthard and Ziemssen, Tjalf and Schlaich, Markus P. and Smith, Wayne and Magnusson, Martin and Wentzel, Annemarie and Myburgh, Carlien E. and Steyn, Hendrik S. and Malan, Nico T.},
  title     = {Delayed retinal vein recovery responses indicate both non-adaptation to stress as well as increased risk for stroke: the SABPA study},
  series = {Cardiovascular Journal of Africa},
  volume    = {26},
  journal   = {Cardiovascular Journal of Africa},
  number    = {31},
  publisher = {Clinics Cardive Publishing},
  address   = {Durbanville},
  issn      = {1680-0745},
  doi       = {10.5830/CVJA-2020-031},
  pages     = {1 -- 12},
  year      = {2020},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{GossmannThomasHorvathetal.2020,
  author    = {Gossmann, Matthias and Thomas, Ulrich and Horv{\´a}th, Andr{\´a}s and Dragicevic, Elena and Stoelzle-Feix, Sonja and Jung, Alexander and Raman, Aravind Hariharan and Staat, Manfred and Linder, Peter},
  title     = {A higher-throughput approach to investigate cardiac contractility in vitro under physiological mechanical conditions},
  series = {Journal of Pharmacological and Toxicological Methods},
  volume    = {105},
  journal   = {Journal of Pharmacological and Toxicological Methods},
  number    = {Article 106843},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {New York, NY},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.vascn.2020.106843},
  year      = {2020},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{KoppSchunckGosauetal.2020,
  author    = {Kopp, Alexander and Schunck, Laura and Gosau, Martin and Smeets, Ralf and Burg, Simon and Fuest, Sandra and Kr{\"o}ger, Nadja and Zinser, Max and Krohn, Sebastian and Behbahani, Mehdi and K{\"o}pf, Marius and Lauts, Lisa and Rutkowski, Rico},
  title     = {Influence of the casting concentration on the mechanical and optical properties of Fa/CaCl2-derived silk fibroin membranes},
  series = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences},
  volume    = {21},
  journal   = {International Journal of Molecular Sciences},
  number    = {18 art. no. 6704},
  publisher = {MDPI},
  address   = {Basel},
  issn      = {1422-0067},
  doi       = {10.3390/ijms21186704},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {In this study, we describe the manufacturing and characterization of silk fibroin membranes derived from the silkworm Bombyx mori. To date, the dissolution process used in this study has only been researched to a limited extent, although it entails various potential advantages, such as reduced expenses and the absence of toxic chemicals in comparison to other conventional techniques. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the influence of different fibroin concentrations on the process output and resulting membrane properties. Casted membranes were thus characterized with regard to their mechanical, structural and optical assets via tensile testing, SEM, light microscopy and spectrophotometry. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using BrdU, XTT, and LDH assays, followed by live-dead staining. The formic acid (FA) dissolution method was proven to be suitable for the manufacturing of transparent and mechanically stable membranes. The fibroin concentration affects both thickness and transparency of the membranes. The membranes did not exhibit any signs of cytotoxicity. When compared to other current scientific and technical benchmarks, the manufactured membranes displayed promising potential for various biomedical applications. Further research is nevertheless necessary to improve reproducible manufacturing, including a more uniform thickness, less impurity and physiological pH within the membranes.},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{IomdinaKiselevaKotliaretal.2020,
  author    = {Iomdina, Elena N. and Kiseleva, Anna A. and Kotliar, Konstantin and Luzhnov, Petr V.},
  title     = {Quantification of Choroidal Blood Flow Using the OCT-A System Based on Voxel Scan Processing},
  series = {2020 International Conference on Biomedical Innovations and Applications (BIA)},
  booktitle = {2020 International Conference on Biomedical Innovations and Applications (BIA)},
  isbn      = {978-1-7281-7073-2},
  doi       = {10.1109/BIA50171.2020.9244511},
  pages     = {41 -- 44},
  year      = {2020},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{BayerTemizArtmannDigeletal.2020,
  author    = {Bayer, Robin and Temiz Artmann, Ayseg{\"u}l and Digel, Ilya and Falkenstein, Julia and Artmann, Gerhard and Creutz, Till and Hescheler, J{\"u}rgen},
  title     = {Mechano-pharmacological testing of L-Type Ca²⁺ channel modulators via human vascular celldrum model},
  series = {Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry},
  volume    = {54},
  journal   = {Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry},
  publisher = {Cell Physiol Biochem Press},
  address   = {D{\"u}sseldorf},
  issn      = {1421-9778},
  doi       = {10.33594/000000225},
  pages     = {371 -- 383},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Background/Aims: This study aimed to establish a precise and well-defined working model, assessing pharmaceutical effects on vascular smooth muscle cell monolayer in-vitro. It describes various analysis techniques to determine the most suitable to measure the biomechanical impact of vasoactive agents by using CellDrum technology. Methods: The so-called CellDrum technology was applied to analyse the biomechanical properties of confluent human aorta muscle cells (haSMC) in monolayer. The cell generated tensions deviations in the range of a few N/m² are evaluated by the CellDrum technology. This study focuses on the dilative and contractive effects of L-type Ca²⁺ channel agonists and antagonists, respectively. We analyzed the effects of Bay K8644, nifedipine and verapamil. Three different measurement modes were developed and applied to determine the most appropriate analysis technique for the study purpose. These three operation modes are called, particular time mode" (PTM), "long term mode" (LTM) and "real-time mode" (RTM). Results: It was possible to quantify the biomechanical response of haSMCs to the addition of vasoactive agents using CellDrum technology. Due to the supplementation of 100nM Bay K8644, the tension increased approximately 10.6\% from initial tension maximum, whereas, the treatment with nifedipine and verapamil caused a significant decrease in cellular tension: 10nM nifedipine decreased the biomechanical stress around 6,5\% and 50nM verapamil by 2,8\%, compared to the initial tension maximum. Additionally, all tested measurement modes provide similar results while focusing on different analysis parameters. Conclusion: The CellDrum technology allows highly sensitive biomechanical stress measurements of cultured haSMC monolayers. The mechanical stress responses evoked by the application of vasoactive calcium channel modulators were quantified functionally (N/m²). All tested operation modes resulted in equal findings, whereas each mode features operation-related data analysis.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{QuittmannAbelAlbrachtetal.2020,
  author    = {Quittmann, Oliver J. and Abel, Thomas and Albracht, Kirsten and Meskemper, Joshua and Foitschik, Tina and Str{\"u}der, Heiko K.},
  title     = {Biomechanics of handcycling propulsion in a 30-min continuous load test at lactate threshold: Kinetics, kinematics, and muscular activity in able-bodied participants},
  series = {European Journal of Applied Physiology},
  journal   = {European Journal of Applied Physiology},
  number    = {120},
  publisher = {Springer},
  address   = {Heidelberg},
  issn      = {1439-6327},
  doi       = {10.1007/s00421-020-04373-x},
  pages     = {1403 -- 1415},
  year      = {2020},
  abstract  = {Purpose This study aims to investigate the biomechanics of handcycling during a continuous load trial (CLT) to assess the mechanisms underlying fatigue in upper body exercise. Methods Twelve able-bodied triathletes performed a 30-min CLT at a power output corresponding to lactate threshold in a racing recumbent handcycle mounted on a stationary ergometer. During the CLT, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), tangential crank kinetics, 3D joint kinematics, and muscular activity of ten muscles of the upper extremity and trunk were examined using motion capturing and surface electromyography. Results During the CLT, spontaneously chosen cadence and RPE increased, whereas crank torque decreased. Rotational work was higher during the pull phase. Peripheral RPE was higher compared to central RPE. Joint range of motion decreased for elbow-flexion and radial-duction. Integrated EMG (iEMG) increased in the forearm flexors, forearm extensors, and M. deltoideus (Pars spinalis). An earlier onset of activation was found for M. deltoideus (Pars clavicularis), M. pectoralis major, M. rectus abdominis, M. biceps brachii, and the forearm flexors. Conclusion Fatigue-related alterations seem to apply analogously in handcycling and cycling. The most distal muscles are responsible for force transmission on the cranks and might thus suffer most from neuromuscular fatigue. The findings indicate that peripheral fatigue (at similar lactate values) is higher in handcycling compared to leg cycling, at least for inexperienced participants. An increase in cadence might delay peripheral fatigue by a reduced vascular occlusion. We assume that the gap between peripheral and central fatigue can be reduced by sport-specific endurance training.},
  language  = {en}
}