@article{PogorelovaRogachevAkimbekovetal.2024,
  author    = {Pogorelova, Natalia and Rogachev, Evgeniy and Akimbekov, Nuraly and Digel, Ilya},
  title     = {Effect of dehydration method on the micro- and nanomorphological properties of bacterial cellulose produced by Medusomyces gisevii on different substrates},
  series = {Journal of materials science},
  volume    = {2024},
  journal   = {Journal of materials science},
  publisher = {Springer Science + Business Media},
  address   = {Dordrecht},
  issn      = {1573-4803 (Online)},
  doi       = {10.1007/s10853-024-09596-3},
  pages     = {13 Seiten},
  year      = {2024},
  abstract  = {Many important properties of bacterial cellulose (BC), such as moisture absorption capacity, elasticity and tensile strength, largely depend on its structure. This paper presents a study on the effect of the drying method on BC films produced by Medusomyces gisevii using two different procedures: room temperature drying (RT, (24 ± 2 °C, humidity 65 ± 1\%, dried until a constant weight was reached) and freeze-drying (FD, treated at - 75 °C for 48 h). BC was synthesized using one of two different carbon sources—either glucose or sucrose. Structural differences in the obtained BC films were evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction. Macroscopically, the RT samples appeared semi-transparent and smooth, whereas the FD group exhibited an opaque white color and sponge-like structure. SEM examination showed denser packing of fibrils in FD samples while RT-samples displayed smaller average fiber diameter, lower surface roughness and less porosity. AFM confirmed the SEM observations and showed that the FD material exhibited a more branched structure and a higher surface roughness. The samples cultivated in a glucose-containing nutrient medium, generally displayed a straight and ordered shape of fibrils compared to the sucrose-derived BC, characterized by a rougher and wavier structure. The BC films dried under different conditions showed distinctly different crystallinity degrees, whereas the carbon source in the culture medium was found to have a relatively small effect on the BC crystallinity.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{ZhenLiangStaatetal.2024,
  author    = {Zhen, Manghao and Liang, Yunpei and Staat, Manfred and Li, Quanqui and Li, Jianbo},
  title     = {Discontinuous fracture behaviors and constitutive model of sandstone specimens containing non-parallel prefabricated fissures under uniaxial compression},
  series = {Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics},
  volume    = {131},
  journal   = {Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  issn      = {0167-8442},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.tafmec.2024.104373},
  pages     = {Artikel 104373},
  year      = {2024},
  abstract  = {The deformation and damage laws of non-homogeneous irregular structural planes in rocks are the basis for studying the stability of rock engineering. To investigate the damage characteristics of rock containing non-parallel fissures, uniaxial compression tests and numerical simulations were conducted on sandstone specimens containing three non-parallel fissures inclined at 0°, 45° and 90° in this study. The characteristics of crack initiation and crack evolution of fissures with different inclinations were analyzed. A constitutive model for the discontinuous fractures of fissured sandstone was proposed. The results show that the fracture behaviors of fissured sandstone specimens are discontinuous. The stress-strain curves are non-smooth and can be divided into nonlinear crack closure stage, linear elastic stage, plastic stage and brittle failure stage, of which the plastic stage contains discontinuous stress drops. During the uniaxial compression test, the middle or ends of 0° fissures were the first to crack compared to 45° and 90° fissures. The end with small distance between 0° and 45° fissures cracked first, and the end with large distance cracked later. After the final failure, 0° fissures in all specimens were fractured, while 45° and 90° fissures were not necessarily fractured. Numerical simulation results show that the concentration of compressive stress at the tips of 0°, 45° and 90° fissures, as well as the concentration of tensile stress on both sides, decreased with the increase of the inclination angle. A constitutive model for the discontinuous fractures of fissured sandstone specimens was derived by combining the logistic model and damage mechanic theory. This model can well describe the discontinuous drops of stress and agrees well with the whole processes of the stress-strain curves of the fissured sandstone specimens.},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{DachwaldWurm2009,
  author    = {Dachwald, Bernd and Wurm, P.},
  title     = {Mission analysis for an advanced solar photon thruster},
  series = {60th International Astronautical Congress 2009, IAC 2009},
  volume    = {Vol. 8},
  booktitle = {60th International Astronautical Congress 2009, IAC 2009},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  isbn      = {978-161567908-9},
  pages     = {6838 -- 6851},
  year      = {2009},
  abstract  = {The so-called "compound solar sail", also known as "Solar Photon Thruster" (SPT), is a solar sail design concept, for which the two basic functions of the solar sail, namely light collection and thrust direction, are uncoupled. In this paper, we introduce a novel SPT concept, termed the Advanced Solar Photon Thruster (ASPT). This model does not suffer from the simplified assumptions that have been made for the analysis of compound solar sails in previous studies. We present the equations that describe the force, which acts on the ASPT. After a detailed design analysis, the performance of the ASPT with respect to the conventional flat solar sail (FSS) is investigated for three interplanetary mission scenarios: An Earth-Venus rendezvous, where the solar sail has to spiral towards the Sun, an Earth-Mars rendezvous, where the solar sail has to spiral away from the Sun, and an Earth-NEA rendezvous (to near-Earth asteroid 1996FG3), where a large orbital eccentricity change is required. The investigated solar sails have realistic near-term characteristic accelerations between 0.1 and 0.2mm/s2. Our results show that a SPT is not superior to the flat solar sail unless very idealistic assumptions are made.},
  language  = {en}
}
@incollection{Dachwald2017,
  author    = {Dachwald, Bernd},
  title     = {Light propulsion systems for spacecraft},
  series = {Optical nano and micro actuator technology},
  booktitle = {Optical nano and micro actuator technology},
  editor    = {Knopf, George K. and Otani, Yukitoshi},
  publisher = {CRC Press},
  address   = {Boca Raton},
  isbn      = {9781315217628 (eBook)},
  pages     = {577 -- 598},
  year      = {2017},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{DachwaldWurm2009,
  author    = {Dachwald, Bernd and Wurm, P.},
  title     = {Design concept and modeling of an advanced solar photon thruster},
  series = {Advances in the Astronautical Sciences},
  booktitle = {Advances in the Astronautical Sciences},
  publisher = {American Astronautical Society},
  address   = {San Diego, Calif.},
  isbn      = {978-087703554-1},
  issn      = {00653438},
  pages     = {723 -- 740},
  year      = {2009},
  abstract  = {The so-called "compound solar sail", also known as "Solar Photon Thruster" (SPT), holds the potential of providing significant performance advantages over the flat solar sail. Previous SPT design concepts, however, do not consider shadowing effects and multiple reflections of highly concentrated solar radiation that would inevitably destroy the gossamer sail film. In this paper, we propose a novel advanced SPT (ASPT) design concept that does not suffer from these oversimplifications. We present the equations that describe the thrust force acting on such a sail system and compare its performance with respect to the conventional flat solar sail.},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{GehlerOberBloebaumDachwald2009,
  author    = {Gehler, M. and Ober-Bl{\"o}baum, S. and Dachwald, Bernd},
  title     = {Application of discrete mechanics and optimal control to spacecraft in non-keplerian motion around small solar system bodies},
  series = {Procceedings of the 60th International Astronautical Congress},
  booktitle = {Procceedings of the 60th International Astronautical Congress},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  isbn      = {978-161567908-9},
  pages     = {1360 -- 1371},
  year      = {2009},
  abstract  = {Prolonged operations close to small solar system bodies require a sophisticated control logic to minimize propellant mass and maximize operational efficiency. A control logic based on Discrete Mechanics and Optimal Control (DMOC) is proposed and applied to both conventionally propelled and solar sail spacecraft operating at an arbitrarily shaped asteroid in the class of Itokawa. As an example, stand-off inertial hovering is considered, recently identified as a challenging part of the Marco Polo mission. The approach is easily extended to stand-off orbits. We show that DMOC is applicable to spacecraft control at small objects, in particular with regard to the fact that the changes in gravity are exploited by the algorithm to optimally control the spacecraft position. Furthermore, we provide some remarks on promising developments.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{SchoenrockMuckeltHastermannetal.2024,
  author    = {Schoenrock, Britt and Muckelt, Paul E. and Hastermann, Maria and Albracht, Kirsten and MacGregor, Robert and Martin, David and Gunga, Hans-Christian and Salanova, Michele and Stokes, Maria J. and Warner, Martin B. and Blottner, Dieter},
  title     = {Muscle stiffness indicating mission crew health in space},
  series = {Scientific Reports},
  volume    = {14},
  journal   = {Scientific Reports},
  number    = {Article number: 4196},
  publisher = {Springer Nature},
  address   = {London},
  issn      = {2045-2322},
  doi       = {10.1038/s41598-024-54759-6},
  pages     = {13 Seiten},
  year      = {2024},
  abstract  = {Muscle function is compromised by gravitational unloading in space affecting overall musculoskeletal health. Astronauts perform daily exercise programmes to mitigate these effects but knowing which muscles to target would optimise effectiveness. Accurate inflight assessment to inform exercise programmes is critical due to lack of technologies suitable for spaceflight. Changes in mechanical properties indicate muscle health status and can be measured rapidly and non-invasively using novel technology. A hand-held MyotonPRO device enabled monitoring of muscle health for the first time in spaceflight (> 180 days). Greater/maintained stiffness indicated countermeasures were effective. Tissue stiffness was preserved in the majority of muscles (neck, shoulder, back, thigh) but Tibialis Anterior (foot lever muscle) stiffness decreased inflight vs. preflight (p < 0.0001; mean difference 149 N/m) in all 12 crewmembers. The calf muscles showed opposing effects, Gastrocnemius increasing in stiffness Soleus decreasing. Selective stiffness decrements indicate lack of preservation despite daily inflight countermeasures. This calls for more targeted exercises for lower leg muscles with vital roles as ankle joint stabilizers and in gait. Muscle stiffness is a digital biomarker for risk monitoring during future planetary explorations (Moon, Mars), for healthcare management in challenging environments or clinical disorders in people on Earth, to enable effective tailored exercise programmes.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{UysalFiratCreutzetal.2022,
  author    = {Uysal, Karya and Firat, Ipek Serat and Creutz, Till and Aydin, Inci Cansu and Artmann, Gerhard and Teusch, Nicole and Temiz Artmann, Ayseg{\"u}l},
  title     = {A novel in vitro wound healing assay using free-standing, ultra-thin PDMS membranes},
  series = {membranes},
  volume    = {2023},
  journal   = {membranes},
  number    = {13(1)},
  publisher = {MDPI},
  address   = {Basel},
  doi       = {10.3390/membranes13010022},
  pages     = {Artikel 22},
  year      = {2022},
  abstract  = {Advances in polymer science have significantly increased polymer applications in life sciences. We report the use of free-standing, ultra-thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes, called CellDrum, as cell culture substrates for an in vitro wound model. Dermal fibroblast monolayers from 28- and 88-year-old donors were cultured on CellDrums. By using stainless steel balls, circular cell-free areas were created in the cell layer (wounding). Sinusoidal strain of 1 Hz, 5\% strain, was applied to membranes for 30 min in 4 sessions. The gap circumference and closure rate of un-stretched samples (controls) and stretched samples were monitored over 4 days to investigate the effects of donor age and mechanical strain on wound closure. A significant decrease in gap circumference and an increase in gap closure rate were observed in trained samples from younger donors and control samples from older donors. In contrast, a significant decrease in gap closure rate and an increase in wound circumference were observed in the trained samples from older donors. Through these results, we propose the model of a cell monolayer on stretchable CellDrums as a practical tool for wound healing research. The combination of biomechanical cell loading in conjunction with analyses such as gene/protein expression seems promising beyond the scope published here.},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{Tepecik2024,
  author    = {Tepecik, Atakan},
  title     = {AstroBioLab: Review of technical and bioanalytical approaches},
  series = {4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  booktitle = {4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  editor    = {Digel, Ilya and Staat, Manfred and Trzewik, J{\"u}rgen and Sielemann, Stefanie and Erni, Daniel and Zylka, Waldemar},
  publisher = {Universit{\"a}t Duisburg-Essen},
  address   = {Duisburg},
  organization    = {MedTech Symposium},
  isbn      = {978-3-940402-65-3},
  doi       = {10.17185/duepublico/81475},
  pages     = {33 -- 34},
  year      = {2024},
  abstract  = {This study presents the concept of AstroBioLab, an autonomous astrobiological field laboratory tailored for the exploration of (sub)glacial habitats. AstroBioLab is an integral component of the TRIPLE (Technologies for Rapid Ice Penetration and subglacial Lake Exploration) DLR-funded project, aimed at advancing astrobiology research through the development and deployment of innovative technologies. AstroBioLab integrates diverse measurement techniques such as fluorescence microscopy, DNA sequencing and fluorescence spectrometry, while leveraging microfluidics for efficient sample delivery and preparation.},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{SherelkhanAlibekova2024,
  author    = {Sherelkhan, Dinara and Alibekova, Alina},
  title     = {EEM spectroscopy characterization of humic substances of biomedical importance},
  series = {4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  booktitle = {4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  editor    = {Digel, Ilya and Staat, Manfred and Trzewik, J{\"u}rgen and Sielemann, Stefanie and Erni, Daniel and Zylka, Waldemar},
  publisher = {Universit{\"a}t Duisburg-Essen},
  address   = {Duisburg},
  organization    = {MedTech Symposium},
  isbn      = {978-3-940402-65-3},
  doi       = {10.17185/duepublico/81475},
  pages     = {31 -- 32},
  year      = {2024},
  abstract  = {Humic substances possess distinctive chemical features enabling their use in many advanced applications, including biomedical fields. No chemicals in nature have the same combination of specific chemical and biological properties as humic substances. Traditional medicine and modern research have demonstrated that humic substances from different sources possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes them suitable for the prevention and treatment of chronic dermatoses, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and other conditions characterized by inflammatory and allergic responses [1-4]. The use of humic compounds as agentswith antifungal and antiviral properties shows great potential [5-7].},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{SchmitzApandiSpillneretal.2024,
  author    = {Schmitz, Annika and Apandi, Shah Eiman Amzar Shah and Spillner, Jan and Hima, Flutura and Behbahani, Mehdi},
  title     = {Effect of different cannula positions in the pulmonary artery on blood flow and gas exchange using computational fluid dynamics analysis},
  series = {4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  booktitle = {4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  editor    = {Digel, Ilya and Staat, Manfred and Trzewik, J{\"u}rgen and Sielemann, Stefanie and Erni, Daniel and Zylka, Waldemar},
  publisher = {Universit{\"a}t Duisburg-Essen},
  address   = {Duisburg},
  organization    = {MedTech Symposium},
  isbn      = {978-3-940402-65-3},
  doi       = {10.17185/duepublico/81475},
  pages     = {29 -- 30},
  year      = {2024},
  abstract  = {Pulmonary arterial cannulation is a common and effective method for percutaneous mechanical circulatory support for concurrent right heart and respiratory failure [1]. However, limited data exists to what effect the positioning of the cannula has on the oxygen perfusion throughout the pulmonary artery (PA). This study aims to evaluate, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), the effect of different cannula positions in the PA with respect to the oxygenation of the different branching vessels in order for an optimal cannula position to be determined. The four chosen different positions (see Fig. 1) of the cannulas are, in the lower part of the main pulmonary artery (MPA), in the MPA at the junction between the right pulmonary artery (RPA) and the left pulmonary artery (LPA), in the RPA at the first branch of the RPA and in the LPA at the first branch of the LPA.},
  language  = {en}
}
@book{StaatDigelTrzewiketal.2024,
  author    = {Staat, Manfred and Digel, Ilya and Trzewik, J{\"u}rgen and Sielemann, Stefanie and Erni, Daniel and Zylka, Waldemar},
  title     = {Symposium Proceedings; 4th YRA MedTech Symposium 2024 : February 1 / 2024 / FH Aachen},
  publisher = {Universit{\"a}t Duisburg-Essen},
  address   = {Duisburg},
  organization    = {MedTech Symposium},
  isbn      = {978-3-940402-65-3},
  doi       = {10.17185/duepublico/81475},
  pages     = {40 Seiten},
  year      = {2024},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{YangKriechbaumerAlbrachtetal.2014,
  author    = {Yang, Peng-Fei and Kriechbaumer, Andreas and Albracht, Kirsten and Sanno, Maximilian and Ganse, Bergita and Koy, Timmo and Shang, Peng and br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter and M{\"u}ller, Lars Peter and Rittweger, J{\"o}rn},
  title     = {A novel optical approach for assessing in vivo bone segment deformation and its application in muscle-bone relationship studies in humans},
  series = {Journal of Orthopaedic Translation},
  volume    = {2},
  journal   = {Journal of Orthopaedic Translation},
  number    = {4},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Singapore},
  issn      = {2214-0328},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.jot.2014.07.078},
  pages     = {238 -- 238},
  year      = {2014},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{WerkhausenAlbrachtCroninetal.2018,
  author    = {Werkhausen, Amelie and Albracht, Kirsten and Cronin, Neil J and Paulsen, G{\o}ran and Bojsen-M{\o}ller, Jens and Seynnes, Olivier R},
  title     = {Effect of training-induced changes in achilles tendon stiffness on muscle-tendon behavior during landing},
  series = {Frontiers in physiology},
  journal   = {Frontiers in physiology},
  number    = {9},
  publisher = {Frontiers Research Foundation},
  address   = {Lausanne},
  issn      = {1664-042X},
  doi       = {10.3389/fphys.2018.00794},
  pages     = {11 Seiten},
  year      = {2018},
  abstract  = {During rapid deceleration of the body, tendons buffer part of the elongation of the muscle-tendon unit (MTU), enabling safe energy dissipation via eccentric muscle contraction. Yet, the influence of changes in tendon stiffness within the physiological range upon these lengthening contractions is unknown. This study aimed to examine the effect of training-induced stiffening of the Achilles tendon on triceps surae muscle-tendon behavior during a landing task. Twenty-one male subjects were assigned to either a 10-week resistance-training program consisting of single-leg isometric plantarflexion (n = 11) or to a non-training control group (n = 10). Before and after the training period, plantarflexion force, peak Achilles tendon strain and stiffness were measured during isometric contractions, using a combination of dynamometry, ultrasound and kinematics data. Additionally, testing included a step-landing task, during which joint mechanics and lengths of gastrocnemius and soleus fascicles, Achilles tendon, and MTU were determined using synchronized ultrasound, kinematics and kinetics data collection. After training, plantarflexion strength and Achilles tendon stiffness increased (15 and 18\%, respectively), and tendon strain during landing remained similar. Likewise, lengthening and negative work produced by the gastrocnemius MTU did not change detectably. However, in the training group, gastrocnemius fascicle length was offset (8\%) to a longer length at touch down and, surprisingly, fascicle lengthening and velocity were reduced by 27 and 21\%, respectively. These changes were not observed for soleus fascicles when accounting for variation in task execution between tests. These results indicate that a training-induced increase in tendon stiffness does not noticeably affect the buffering action of the tendon when the MTU is rapidly stretched. Reductions in gastrocnemius fascicle lengthening and lengthening velocity during landing occurred independently from tendon strain. Future studies are required to provide insight into the mechanisms underpinning these observations and their influence on energy dissipation.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{SavitskayaZhantlessovaKistaubayevaetal.2023,
  author    = {Savitskaya, Irina and Zhantlessova, Sirina and Kistaubayeva, Aida and Ignatova, Ludmila and Shokatayeva, Dina and Sinyavsky, Yuriy and Kushugulova, Almagul and Digel, Ilya},
  title     = {Prebiotic cellulose-pullulan matrix as a "vehicle" for probiotic biofilm delivery to the host large intestine},
  series = {Polymers},
  journal   = {Polymers},
  number    = {16(1)},
  publisher = {MDPI},
  address   = {Basel},
  doi       = {10.3390/polym16010030},
  pages     = {Artikel 30},
  year      = {2023},
  abstract  = {This study describes the development of a new combined polysaccharide-matrix-based technology for the immobilization of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) bacteria in biofilm form. The new composition allows for delivering the bacteria to the digestive tract in a manner that improves their robustness compared with planktonic cells and released biofilm cells. Granules consisting of a polysaccharide matrix with probiotic biofilms (PMPB) with high cell density (>9 log CFU/g) were obtained by immobilization in the optimized nutrient medium. Successful probiotic loading was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The developed prebiotic polysaccharide matrix significantly enhanced LGG viability under acidic (pH 2.0) and bile salt (0.3\%) stress conditions. Enzymatic extract of feces, mimicking colon fluid in terms of cellulase activity, was used to evaluate the intestinal release of probiotics. PMPB granules showed the ability to gradually release a large number of viable LGG cells in the model colon fluid. In vivo, the oral administration of PMPB granules in rats resulted in the successful release of probiotics in the colon environment. The biofilm-forming incubation method of immobilization on a complex polysaccharide matrix tested in this study has shown high efficacy and promising potential for the development of innovative biotechnologies.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{KetelhutGoellBraunsteinetal.2018,
  author    = {Ketelhut, Maike and G{\"o}ll, Fabian and Braunstein, Bj{\"o}rn and Albracht, Kirsten and Abel, Dirk},
  title     = {Comparison of different training algorithms for the leg extension training with an industrial robot},
  series = {Current Directions in Biomedical Engineering},
  volume    = {4},
  journal   = {Current Directions in Biomedical Engineering},
  number    = {1},
  publisher = {De Gruyter},
  address   = {Berlin},
  issn      = {2364-5504},
  doi       = {10.1515/cdbme-2018-0005},
  pages     = {17 -- 20},
  year      = {2018},
  abstract  = {In the past, different training scenarios have been developed and implemented on robotic research platforms, but no systematic analysis and comparison have been done so far. This paper deals with the comparison of an isokinematic (motion with constant velocity) and an isotonic (motion against constant weight) training algorithm. Both algorithms are designed for a robotic research platform consisting of a 3D force plate and a high payload industrial robot, which allows leg extension training with arbitrary six-dimensional motion trajectories. In the isokinematic as well as the isotonic training algorithm, individual paths are defined i n C artesian s pace by sufficient s upport p oses. I n t he i sotonic t raining s cenario, the trajectory is adapted to the measured force as the robot should only move along the trajectory as long as the force applied by the user exceeds a minimum threshold. In the isotonic training scenario however, the robot's acceleration is a function of the force applied by the user. To validate these findings, a simulative experiment with a simple linear trajectory is performed. For this purpose, the same force path is applied in both training scenarios. The results illustrate that the algorithms differ in the force dependent trajectory adaption.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{WerkhausenCroninAlbrachtetal.2019,
  author    = {Werkhausen, Amelie and Cronin, Neil J. and Albracht, Kirsten and Paulsen, G{\o}ran and Larsen, Askild V. and Bojsen-M{\o}ller, Jens and Seynnes, Olivier R.},
  title     = {Training-induced increase in Achilles tendon stiffness affects tendon strain pattern during running},
  series = {PeerJ},
  journal   = {PeerJ},
  publisher = {Peer},
  address   = {London},
  issn      = {21678359},
  doi       = {10.7717/peerj.6764},
  pages     = {18 Seiten},
  year      = {2019},
  abstract  = {Background During the stance phase of running, the elasticity of the Achilles tendon enables the utilisation of elastic energy and allows beneficial contractile conditions for the triceps surae muscles. However, the effect of changes in tendon mechanical properties induced by chronic loading is still poorly understood. We tested the hypothesis that a training-induced increase in Achilles tendon stiffness would result in reduced tendon strain during the stance phase of running, which would reduce fascicle strains in the triceps surae muscles, particularly in the mono-articular soleus. Methods Eleven subjects were assigned to a training group performing isometric singleleg plantarflexion contractions three times per week for ten weeks, and another ten subjects formed a control group. Before and after the training period, Achilles tendon stiffness was estimated, and muscle-tendon mechanics were assessed during running at preferred speed using ultrasonography, kinematics and kinetics. Results Achilles tendon stiffness increased by 18\% (P <0:01) in the training group, but the associated reduction in strain seen during isometric contractions was not statistically significant. Tendon elongation during the stance phase of running was similar after training, but tendon recoil was reduced by 30\% (P <0:01), while estimated tendon force remained unchanged. Neither gastrocnemius medialis nor soleus fascicle shortening during stance was affected by training. Discussion These results show that a training-induced increase in Achilles tendon stiffness altered tendon behaviour during running. Despite training-induced changes in tendon mechanical properties and recoil behaviour, the data suggest that fascicle shortening patterns were preserved for the running speed that we examined. The asymmetrical changes in tendon strain patterns supports the notion that simple inseries models do not fully explain the mechanical output of the muscle-tendon unit during a complex task like running.},
  language  = {en}
}
@misc{BlottnerHastermannMuckeltetal.2019,
  author    = {Blottner, Dieter and Hastermann, Maria and Muckelt, Paul and Albracht, Kirsten and Schoenrock, Britt and Salanova, Michele and Warner, Martin and Gunga, Hans-Christian and Stokes, Maria},
  title     = {MYOTONES - Inflight muscle health status monitoring during long-duration space missions onboard the International Space Station: a single case study},
  series = {IAC Papers Archive},
  journal   = {IAC Papers Archive},
  publisher = {Pergamon},
  address   = {Oxford},
  issn      = {00741795},
  pages     = {2 Seiten},
  year      = {2019},
  abstract  = {The MYOTONES experiment is the first to monitor changes in the basic biomechanical properties (tone, elasticity and stiffness) of the resting human myofascial system due to microgravity with a oninvasive, portable device on board the ISS. The MyotonPRO device applies several brief mechanical stimuli to the surface of the skin, and the natural oscillation signals of the tissue beneath are detected and computed by the MyotonPRO. Thus, an objective, quick and easy determination of the state of the underlying tissue is possible. Two preflight, four inflight and four post flight measurements were performed on a male astronaut using the same 10 measurement points (MP) for each session. MPs were located on the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, M. soleus, M. gastrocnemius, M. multifidus, M. splenius capitis, M. deltoideus anterior, M. rectus femoris, infrapatellar tendon, M. tibialis anterior. Subcutaneous tissues thickness above the MPs was measured using ultrasound imaging. Magnetic resonance images (MRI) of lower limb muscles and functional tests were also performed pre- and postflight. Our first measurements on board the ISS confirmed increased tone and stiffness of the lumbar multifidus muscle, an important trunk stabilizer, dysfunction of which is known to be associated with back pain. Furthermore, reduced tone and stiffness of Achilles tendon and plantar fascia were observed inflight vs. preflight, confirming previous findings from terrestrial analog studies and parabolic flights. Unexpectedly, the deltoid showed negative inflight changes in tone and stiffness, and increased elasticity, suggesting a potential risk of muscle atrophy in longer spaceflight that should be addressed by adequate inflight countermeasure protocols. Most values from limb and back MPS showed deflected patterns (in either directions) from inflight shortly after the re-entry phase on the landing day and one week later. Most parameter values then normalized to baseline after 3 weeks likely due to 1G re-adaptation and possible outcome of the reconditioning protocol. No major changes in subcutaneous tissues thickness above the MPs were found inflight vs preflight, suggesting no bias (i.e., fluid shift, extreme tissue thickening or loss). Pre- and postflight MRI and functional tests showed negligible changes in calf muscle size, power and force, which is likely due to training effects from current inflight exercise protocols. The MYOTONES experiment is currently ongoing to collect data from further crew members. The potential impact of this research is to better understand the effects of microgravity and countermeasures over the time course of an ISS mission cycle. This will enable exercise countermeasures to be tailored},
  language  = {en}
}
@inproceedings{KetelhutGoellBraunsteinetal.2019,
  author    = {Ketelhut, Maike and G{\"o}ll, Fabian and Braunstein, Bjoern and Albracht, Kirsten and Abel, Dirk},
  title     = {Iterative learning control of an industrial robot for neuromuscular training},
  series = {2019 IEEE Conference on Control Technology and Applications},
  booktitle = {2019 IEEE Conference on Control Technology and Applications},
  publisher = {IEEE},
  address   = {New York},
  isbn      = {978-1-7281-2767-5 (ePub)},
  doi       = {10.1109/CCTA.2019.8920659},
  pages     = {7 Seiten},
  year      = {2019},
  abstract  = {Effective training requires high muscle forces potentially leading to training-induced injuries. Thus, continuous monitoring and controlling of the loadings applied to the musculoskeletal system along the motion trajectory is required. In this paper, a norm-optimal iterative learning control algorithm for the robot-assisted training is developed. The algorithm aims at minimizing the external knee joint moment, which is commonly used to quantify the loading of the medial compartment. To estimate the external knee joint moment, a musculoskeletal lower extremity model is implemented in OpenSim and coupled with a model of an industrial robot and a force plate mounted at its end-effector. The algorithm is tested in simulation for patients with varus, normal and valgus alignment of the knee. The results show that the algorithm is able to minimize the external knee joint moment in all three cases and converges after less than seven iterations.},
  language  = {en}
}
@article{KetelhutKolditzGoelletal.2019,
  author    = {Ketelhut, Maike and Kolditz, Melanie and G{\"o}ll, Fabian and Braunstein, Bjoern and Albracht, Kirsten and Abel, Dirk},
  title     = {Admittance control of an industrial robot during resistance training},
  series = {IFAC-PapersOnLine},
  volume    = {52},
  journal   = {IFAC-PapersOnLine},
  number    = {19},
  publisher = {Elsevier},
  address   = {Amsterdam},
  issn      = {2405-8963},
  doi       = {10.1016/j.ifacol.2019.12.102},
  pages     = {223 -- 228},
  year      = {2019},
  abstract  = {Neuromuscular strength training of the leg extensor muscles plays an important role in the rehabilitation and prevention of age and wealth related diseases. In this paper, we focus on the design and implementation of a Cartesian admittance control scheme for isotonic training, i.e. leg extension and flexion against a predefined weight. For preliminary testing and validation of the designed algorithm an experimental research and development platform consisting of an industrial robot and a force plate mounted at its end-effector has been used. Linear, diagonal and arbitrary two-dimensional motion trajectories with different weights for the leg extension and flexion part are applied. The proposed algorithm is easily adaptable to trajectories consisting of arbitrary six-dimensional poses and allows the implementation of individualized trajectories.},
  language  = {en}
}