Principal Investigator
Research Projects
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Investigating Viscoelastic Hyperthermia in Multiple Young and Aging Tendons
In-vivo studies of horse flexor tendons and human Achilles tendons have measured temperatures greater than 45⁰ C and 41⁰ C (respectively) during activity as a result of viscoelastic dissipation. Since these high temperatures could impact cell activity and potentially induce cell necrosis, it has been speculated that intra-tendinous viscoelastic hyperthermia could play a key role in tendon pathology. Nevertheless, while the viscoelastic properties of tendon are known to vary substantially with anatomical location and age, the regionally-varying temperatures generated in multiple tendons tested in different stages of life are unknown. More info...
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Real-time Visualization of the Effects of Cyclic and Static Loading on Healthy and Pathological Cartilage Mechanical and Structural Properties
The metabolic activity of articular cartilage and other connective tissues is regulated by mechanical loading. While dynamic loading typically promotes biosynthetic activity and improves mechanical properties, immobilization and static loads inhibit anabolic activity and are detrimental to tissue function. These load-induced changes are mediated in part by cellular deformations induced by tissue-level strains. Osteoarthritis is characterized by reduced matrix synthesis and increased matrix degradation, resulting in pain and loss of mobility. However, it is not known how the sensitivity of cartilage to ameliorative and detrimental loading regimens is impacted by this disease. More info...
