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Purpose: This study aimed to determine if hamstring-strain-injury risk factors related to muscle structure and morphology differed between rugby union players and controls. Methods: The biceps femoris long head (BFlh) fascicle length and passive muscle stiffness and relative and absolute muscle volume of knee flexors (KF) and extensors (KE) were measured in 21 male subelite rugby players and 21 male physically active nonathletes. Results: BFlh fascicle length was significantly longer (mean difference [MD] = 1.6 [1.7] cm) and BFlh passive muscle stiffness was significantly higher in rugby players (MD = 7.8 [14.8] kPa). The absolute BFlh (MD = 71.9 [73.3] cm3), KF (MD = 332.3 [337.2] cm3), and KE (MD = 956.3 [557.4] cm3) muscle volumes were also significantly higher in rugby players. There were no significant differences in the relative BFlh and KF muscle volumes. The relative KE muscle volumes were significantly higher in rugby players (MD = 2.3 [3.7] cm3/kg). However, the percentage BFlh fascicle length:KE (MD = −0.1% [0.1%]), BFlh/KE (MD = −0.9% [1.9%]), and KF:KE (MD = −4.9% [5.9%]) muscle volume ratios were significantly lower in the rugby players. BFlh muscle volume significantly correlated with BFlh fascicle length (r =.59, r2 =.35) and passive muscle stiffness (r =.46, r2 =.21). Conclusion: Future prospective studies should examine whether there are threshold values in BFlh passive muscle stiffness and BFlh fascicle length:KE, BFlh:KE, and KF:KE muscle volume ratios for predicting hamstring strain injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: While muscle mass and skeletal muscle fibers phenotype have been shown atypical in constitutional thinness (CT), force production capacities and its architectural determinants have never been explored. The present study compared muscle functionality and architecture between participants with CT and their normal-weight (NW) counterparts. Methods: Anthropometry, body composition (Dual-X-ray Absorptiometry), physical activity/sedentary behavior (ActiGraph wGT3X-BT), ultrasound recording of the Vastus Lateralis (2D-ultrasound system), and functional capacities at maximal isometric and isokinetic voluntary contractions (MVCISO and MVCCON) during knee extension (isokinetic dynamometer chair Biodex) have been measured in 18 women with CT (body mass index < 17.5 kg/m2) and 17 NW women. Results: A lower fat-free mass (ES: −1.94, 95%CI: −2.76 to −1.11, p < 0.001), a higher sedentary time, and a trend for a lower time spent at low-intensity physical activity, were observed in CT vs NW participants. While absolute MVCISO, MVCCON, rate of torque development (RTD), and torque work were all markedly lower in CT, these differences disappeared when normalized to body or muscle mass. Muscle thickness and fascicle length were found lower in CT (ES: −1.29, 95%CI: −2.03 to −0.52, p < 0.001; and ES: −0.87, 95%CI: −1.58 to −0.15, p = 0.02, respectively), while pennation angle was found similar. Conclusion: Despite lower absolute strength capacities observed in CT, present findings support the hypothesis of physiological adaptations to the low body and muscle mass than to some intrinsic contractile impairments. These results call for further studies exploring hypertrophy-targeted strategies in the management of CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusion‐tensor (DT)‐MRI tractography provides information about properties relevant to muscle health and function, including estimates of architectural properties such as fascicle length, pennation angle, and curvature and diffusion properties such as mean diffusivity (MD) and fractional anisotropy (FA). Tractography settings, including integration algorithms, thresholds for early tract termination, and tract smoothing approaches, impact the accuracy of the muscle property estimates. However, muscle DT‐MRI tractography is performed using a variety of these settings, complicating comparisons between different studies. The effects of different tractography settings on muscle architecture estimates have not been fully explored, and optimized settings for muscle tractography have not yet been determined. We examined the influence of integration algorithm and termination check settings combined with a range of step sizes, termination criteria, and smoothing polynomial orders on tract characteristics, completion/reason for termination, and goodness of fit between fiber tracts and smoothing polynomials using 3‐T DT‐MR images of the lower leg muscles of seven healthy adults. We found that tract length and completion were highly sensitive to strict FA and intersegment angle thresholds (25%–69% reduction in complete fiber tracts from lowest to highest minimum FA threshold and 11%–36% reduction from highest to lowest intersegment angle threshold). Higher order polynomials (third and fourth order vs. second order) better fit the muscle fiber trajectories, but curvature estimates were highly sensitive to smoothing polynomial order (3.9–6.6 m−1 increase for second‐ vs. fourth‐order fitting polynomials). Step size impacted curvature estimates, albeit to a lesser degree. Integration algorithm had little impact, and mean pennation angle, and tract‐based FA and MD, were relatively insensitive to all parameters. The results demonstrate which muscle diffusion measures and architectural estimates are most sensitive to varying tractography settings and support the need for consistent reporting of tractography details to aid interpretation and comparison of results between studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Musculoskeletal alterations causing reduced range of motion of the ankle joint are common in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Objective measurements of passive joint resistance and three-dimensional skeletal muscle volume and muscle architecture can lead to a comprehensive understanding of which factors influence joint range of motion. Research question: To investigate the relation between the passive dorsiflexion of the ankle joint, biomechanical contributing factors to the passive joint resistance, and muscular architectural properties of the triceps surae muscle in children with CP. Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study, 14 children with spastic CP (bilateral: 5, unilateral: 9, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I:11, II:3) naïve to intramuscular tone reducing treatment, and 14 TD children were included. The passive dorsiflexion of the ankle was measured with a goniometer. Passive joint resistance and related parameters were estimated based on a biomechanical model and measurements using a motorized device, the Neuroflexor. Three-dimensional muscle architecture was quantified with diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DT-MRI). Results: In the CP group, the median [min, max] passive dorsiflexion was decreased in the most affected leg (MAL) compared to the less affected leg (LAL) (2.5° [-25°, 20°] vs. 12.5° [5°, 30°], p = 0.001). The stiffness coefficient (Nm/rad) in the MAL was significantly higher in children with CP compared to TD children (7.10 [3.39, 62.00] vs. 2.82 [1.24, 10.46], p = 0.015). Muscle architecture properties did not differ between CP and TD, except for pennation angle in the medial gastrocnemius (MG) of the MAL (CP 17.64° (2.29) vs. TD 21.46° (3.20), p = 0.017). The stiffness coefficient, in the MAL, correlated negatively to passive dorsiflexion (rs=-0.638) and pennation angle in medial gastrocnemius (rs=-0.964), and the non-linear coefficient (Non-linear 1) correlated negatively to the fascicle length of the medial gastrocnemius (rs=-0.857). Conclusion: This study shows that stiffness of the plantarflexors is related to decreased passive dorsiflexion of the ankle and muscle structure of the MG in high-functioning children with spastic CP. Assessments of how dynamic components as well as microscopic muscle alterations contribute to joint stiffness in the plantarflexors in individuals with CP are warranted. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05447299. Observational study. Study start: 2019-01-15, register date: 2022-07-01. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: "Declawing" is the surgery in which the bone underneath the claw is removed entirely or in part. This has been shown to have substantial effects on the forearm muscles of members of the cat family, but no one has previously examined how it affects other species or the hindlimb. In this study, we examine the leg and forearm muscles of a kinkajou (a Central/South American tree-climbing relative of the raccoon) that was declawed on all four limbs and compare it to several kinkajous that were not declawed and to the previous cat findings. As expected, some of the declawed kinkajou's muscles were substantially different from those of the intact specimens, and as was seen in the cats, the muscles that normally attach to its claw bones appear to have been weaker. Surprisingly, the declawed kinkajou had larger forearm muscles and, even though its toe claws had also been removed, its hindlimb muscles were not very different—possibly because kinkajous rely more on their hands than their feet. Future studies should examine other declawed kinkajous and how this surgery affects other species, like kinkajou relatives that don't climb as much or other species, like monkeys, that do climb like kinkajous. Recently, onychectomy, the "declaw" surgery in which all or part of the distal phalanges are removed, has been shown to have significant effects on the forearm muscles of felids. While this surgery should clearly affect the limb muscles (especially those that insert on the removed or modified bone), these effects have not been studied beyond felids or in the hindlimb. To that end, we herein evaluated the muscle architecture of a kinkajou (Potos flavus) that was declawed on all four of its limbs and compared its anatomy to that of intact specimens and the felid findings. As expected, some of the declawed kinkajou's muscles were substantially different from those of the intact specimens, and as was seen in felids, its digital muscles appear to have been weaker. However, unlike in the felids, the declawed kinkajou had relatively larger forearm muscles. Also, contrary to expectation, the leg muscles of the declawed kinkajou were not substantially different, perhaps reflecting important differences in limb use. Future analyses should examine this anatomy in other declawed kinkajou specimens and also look at the effects of this surgery in other taxa, for instance, non-arboreal relatives of the kinkajou as well as other arboreal taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The age‐related loss of muscle mass is partly accounted for by the loss of sarcomeres in series, contributing to declines in muscle mechanical performance. Resistance training biased to eccentric contractions increases serial sarcomere number (SSN) in young muscle, however, maximal eccentric training in old rats previously did not alter SSN and worsened performance. A submaximal eccentric training stimulus may be more conducive to adaptation for aged muscle. The purpose of this study was to assess whether submaximal eccentric training can increase SSN and improve mechanical function in old rats. Twelve 32‐month‐old male F344/BN rats completed 4 weeks of submaximal (60% maximum) eccentric plantar‐flexion training 3 days/week. Pre‐ and post‐training, we assessed in‐vivo maximum isometric torque at a stretched and neutral ankle angle, the passive torque‐angle relationship, and the isotonic torque‐velocity‐power relationship. The soleus and medial gastrocnemius (MG) were harvested for SSN measurements via laser diffraction, with the untrained leg as a control. SSN increased 11% and 8% in the soleus and MG, respectively. Training also shifted optimal torque production towards longer muscle lengths, reduced passive torque 42%, and increased peak isotonic power 23%. Submaximal eccentric training was beneficial for aged muscle adaptations, increasing SSN, reducing muscle passive tension, and improving dynamic contractile performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The supraspinatus is most frequently involved in rotator cuff tears, a common orthopaedic condition. However, the architecture of this muscle has been described only for the superficial, anterior, and posterior regions. Purpose: To determine the muscle architecture of the deep supraspinatus. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: Muscle architecture measurements were collected from 25 cadaveric supraspinatus specimens (13 intact [without tendon tears], 3 with partial-thickness tears, 9 with full-thickness tears). The muscle was divided into deep, superficial anterior, and superficial posterior regions. Pennation angle, raw and normalized fiber length, and sarcomere length and number were compared using repeated-measures analyses of variance. Results: First, mean architecture measurements were compared between regions using only the intact specimens (n = 13). The deep region had a lower mean pennation angle (3.3° ± 1.0°) compared with the posterior region (11.0° ± 3.9°; P <.0001), which in turn had a significantly higher pennation angle compared with the anterior region (7.6 ± 2.6°; P =.0005). Normalized fiber lengths in the deep region were 21.1% (P =.0052) and 34.5% (P <.0001) shorter than the posterior and anterior normalized fiber lengths, respectively. Sarcomere lengths in the deep region were longer (3.4 ± 0.2 μm) compared with the posterior (3.1 ± 0.2 μm; P =.0012) and anterior (3.2 ± 0.2 μm; P =.0390) regions. Sarcomere numbers also decreased in the deep region by 21.2% (P =.0056) and 34.2% (P <.0001) compared with the posterior and anterior regions, respectively. Conclusion: The deep supraspinatus had significantly lower pennation angles, shorter fiber lengths, and fewer but longer sarcomeres in series compared with other subregions within the muscle. These structural differences suggest a functionally unique "submuscle" within the supraspinatus. Clinical Relevance: Understanding the architecture of the supraspinatus muscle can provide insight into muscle function in health and disease. Specifically, this deep submuscle may play a different role in rotator cuff function than the rest of the muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bats are unique among mammals for evolving powered flight. However, very little data are available on the muscle properties and architecture of bat flight muscles. Diffusible iodine contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT) is an established tool for 3D visualisation of anatomy and is becoming a more readily accessible and widely used technique. Here, we combine this technique with gross dissection of the Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) to compare muscle masses, fibre lengths and physiological cross‐sectional areas (PCSA) of muscles with published forelimb data from an array of non‐flying mammals and flying birds. The Egyptian fruit bat has a highly specialised pectoralis (pars posterior) architecturally optimised to generate power. The elbow flexion/extension muscles (biceps brachii and triceps brachii) have comparable PCSAs to the pectoralis, but shorter fibre lengths, which are optimised to generate large forces. Our data also show that the Egyptian fruit bat is more similar to flying birds than non‐flying mammals with its highly disparate muscle architecture. Specifically, the Egyptian fruit bat have uniquely enlarged pectoralis muscles and elbow flexion and extension muscles (bicep brachii and triceps brachii) to aid powered flight. Finally, while the Egyptian fruit bat has a comparable heterogeneity in pectoralis (pars posterior) fibre length across the cranial‐caudal axis to that seen in birds, the average normalised fibre length is larger than that seen in any of the surveyed birds. Our data here provide a greater understanding of the anatomy and functional specialisation of the forelimb musculature that powers flight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract During muscle contraction, not only are the fascicles shortening but also the pennation angle changes, which leads to a faster contraction of the muscle than of its fascicles. This phenomenon is called muscle gearing, and it has a direct influence on the force output of the muscle. There are few studies showing pennation angle changes during isometric and concentric contractions for different contraction intensities and muscle lengths. Therefore, the aim was to determine these influences over a wide range of contraction intensities and ankle joint angles for human triceps surae. Additionally, the influence of contraction intensity and ankle joint angle on muscle gearing was evaluated. Ten sport students performed concentric and isometric contractions with intensities between 0 and 90% of the maximum voluntary contraction and ankle joint angles from 50° to 120°. During these contractions, the m. gastrocnemius medialis and lateralis and the m. soleus were recorded via ultrasound imaging. A nonlinear relationship between fascicle length and pennation angle was discovered, which can be described with a quadratic fit for each of the muscles during isometric contraction. A nearly identical relationship was detected during dynamic contraction. The muscle gearing increased almost linearly with contraction intensity and ankle joint angle.

Paul Ritsche,1 Ralf Roth,1 Thomas Bernhard,2 Lukas Nebiker,1 Eric Lichtenstein,1 Martino Franchi,3 Jörg Spörri,4,5 Oliver Faude1 1Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; 2FC Basel 1893, Basel, Switzerland; 3Human Neuromuscular Physiology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padova, Italy; 4Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; 5University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, SwitzerlandCorrespondence: Paul Ritsche, University of Basel, Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, Grosse Allee 6, Basel, 4052, Switzerland, Email Paul.ritsche@unibas.chPurpose: Adolescent soccer players experience distinct physiological changes due to chronological and biological maturation, impacting their soccer performance. Here, we explored age-related variations and associations between quadriceps geometry and strength in male national-level adolescent soccer players.Patients and Methods: We used ultrasonography to examine the regional architecture and morphology of the rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles, and we assessed knee extension strength by isometric and isokinetic dynamometry. Players were categorized into four age groups: under (U) 15 (n=18, age=13.7± 0.5 years), U16 (n=15, age=14.7± 0.5), U17 (n=19, age=15.7± 0.5), U18 (n=18, age=16.7± 0.5) and U21 (n=25, age=18.5± 0.5).Results: The absolute and relative strengths were higher in the U16 compared to U15 by 12– 15% and 6– 8%, 11– 12% and 6– 7% in the U17 compared to U16, 5– 7% and − 1– 2% in the U18 compared to U17 and 0– 15% and − 1– 11% in the U21 compared to U18 age groups, respectively. VL architecture did not change relevantly between the age groups. The muscle anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA) of the VL and RF differed non-uniformly and muscle region-specific by 10– 36%, with highest values in the U21 age group. Moderate correlations between the VL architecture and knee extension strength in both legs were observed only in the U16 age group. The quadriceps ACSA showed age-specific correlations with knee extension strength.Conclusion: Our findings highlight non-uniform differences in quadriceps muscle morphology and absolute and relative strength among male national-level adolescent soccer players in different age groups. The correlations observed between muscle morphology or architecture and strength were muscle, muscle region, leg and age dependent.Keywords: strength, youth, muscle architecture, vastus lateralis, rectus femoris

Abstract Background Musculoskeletal alterations causing reduced range of motion of the ankle joint are common in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Objective measurements of passive joint resistance and three-dimensional skeletal muscle volume and muscle architecture can lead to a comprehensive understanding of which factors influence joint range of motion. Research question To investigate the relation between the passive dorsiflexion of the ankle joint, biomechanical contributing factors to the passive joint resistance, and muscular architectural properties of the triceps surae muscle in children with CP. Methods In this cross-sectional observational study, 14 children with spastic CP (bilateral: 5, unilateral: 9, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I:11, II:3) naïve to intramuscular tone reducing treatment, and 14 TD children were included. The passive dorsiflexion of the ankle was measured with a goniometer. Passive joint resistance and related parameters were estimated based on a biomechanical model and measurements using a motorized device, the Neuroflexor. Three-dimensional muscle architecture was quantified with diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DT-MRI). Results In the CP group, the median [min, max] passive dorsiflexion was decreased in the most affected leg (MAL) compared to the less affected leg (LAL) (2.5° [-25°, 20°] vs. 12.5° [5°, 30°], p = 0.001). The stiffness coefficient (Nm/rad) in the MAL was significantly higher in children with CP compared to TD children (7.10 [3.39, 62.00] vs. 2.82 [1.24, 10.46], p = 0.015). Muscle architecture properties did not differ between CP and TD, except for pennation angle in the medial gastrocnemius (MG) of the MAL (CP 17.64° (2.29) vs. TD 21.46° (3.20), p = 0.017). The stiffness coefficient, in the MAL, correlated negatively to passive dorsiflexion (rs=-0.638) and pennation angle in medial gastrocnemius (rs=-0.964), and the non-linear coefficient (Non-linear 1) correlated negatively to the fascicle length of the medial gastrocnemius (rs=-0.857). Conclusion This study shows that stiffness of the plantarflexors is related to decreased passive dorsiflexion of the ankle and muscle structure of the MG in high-functioning children with spastic CP. Assessments of how dynamic components as well as microscopic muscle alterations contribute to joint stiffness in the plantarflexors in individuals with CP are warranted. Trial registration Retrospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05447299. Observational study. Study start: 2019-01-15, register date: 2022-07-01.

Abstract Background Older adults exhibit a slower recovery of muscle mass following disuse atrophy than young adults. At a smaller scale, muscle fibre cross-sectional area (i.e., sarcomeres in parallel) exhibits this same pattern. Less is known, however, about age-related differences in the recovery of muscle fibre length, driven by increases in serial sarcomere number (SSN), following disuse. The purpose of this study was to investigate age-related differences in SSN adaptations and muscle mechanical function during and following muscle immobilization. We hypothesized that older adult rats would experience a similar magnitude of SSN loss during immobilization, however, take longer to recover SSN than young following cast removal, which would limit the recovery of muscle mechanical function. Methods We casted the plantar flexors of young (8 months) and old (32 months) male rats in a shortened position for 2 weeks, and assessed recovery during 4 weeks of voluntary ambulation. Following sacrifice, legs were fixed in formalin for measurement of soleus SSN and physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) with the un-casted soleus acting as a control. Ultrasonographic measurements of pennation angle (PA) and muscle thickness (MT) were conducted weekly. In-vivo active and passive torque-angle relationships were constructed pre-cast, post-cast, and following 4 weeks of recovery. Results From pre- to post-cast, young and older adult rats experienced similar decreases in SSN (–20%, P

Background: Older adults exhibit a slower recovery of muscle mass following disuse atrophy than young adults. At a smaller scale, muscle fibre cross-sectional area (i.e., sarcomeres in parallel) exhibits this same pattern. Less is known, however, about age-related differences in the recovery of muscle fibre length, driven by increases in serial sarcomere number (SSN), following disuse. The purpose of this study was to investigate age-related differences in SSN adaptations and muscle mechanical function during and following muscle immobilization. We hypothesized that older adult rats would experience a similar magnitude of SSN loss during immobilization, however, take longer to recover SSN than young following cast removal, which would limit the recovery of muscle mechanical function. Methods: We casted the plantar flexors of young (8 months) and old (32 months) male rats in a shortened position for 2 weeks, and assessed recovery during 4 weeks of voluntary ambulation. Following sacrifice, legs were fixed in formalin for measurement of soleus SSN and physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) with the un-casted soleus acting as a control. Ultrasonographic measurements of pennation angle (PA) and muscle thickness (MT) were conducted weekly. In-vivo active and passive torque-angle relationships were constructed pre-cast, post-cast, and following 4 weeks of recovery. Results: From pre- to post-cast, young and older adult rats experienced similar decreases in SSN (–20%, P < 0.001), muscle wet weight (–25%, P < 0.001), MT (–30%), PA (–15%, P < 0.001), and maximum isometric torque (–40%, P < 0.001), but there was a greater increase in passive torque in older (+ 180%, P < 0.001) compared to young adult rats (+ 68%, P = 0.006). Following cast removal, young exhibited quicker recovery of SSN and MT than old, but SSN recovered sooner than PA and MT in both young and old. PCSA nearly recovered and active torque fully recovered in young adult rats, whereas in older adult rats these remained unrecovered at ∼ 75%. Conclusions: This study showed that older adult rats retain a better ability to recover longitudinal compared to parallel muscle morphology following cast removal, making SSN a highly adaptable target for improving muscle function in elderly populations early on during rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human rotator cuff consists of four muscles, each with a complex, multipennate architecture. Despite the functional and clinical importance, the architecture of the human rotator cuff has yet to be clearly described in humans in vivo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the intramuscular, intermuscular, and interindividual variations in architecture and moment arms of the human rotator cuff. Muscle volumes, fascicle lengths, physiological cross‐sectional areas (PCSAs), pennation angles, and moment arms of all four rotator cuff muscles were measured from mDixon and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scans of the right shoulders of 20 young adults. In accordance with the most detailed dissections available to date, we found substantial intramuscular variation in fascicle length (coefficients of variation (CVs) ranged from 26% to 40%) and pennation angles (CVs ranged from 56% to 62%) in all rotator cuff muscles. We also found substantial intermuscular and interindividual variations in muscle volumes, but relatively consistent mean fascicle lengths, pennation angles, and moment arms (CVs for all ≤17%). Moreover, when expressed as a proportion of total rotator cuff muscle volume, the volumes of individual rotator cuff muscles were highly consistent between individuals and sexes (CVs ≤16%), suggesting that rotator cuff muscle volumes scale uniformly, at least in a younger population without musculoskeletal problems. Together, these data indicate limited interindividual and intermuscular variability in architecture, which may simplify scaling routines for musculoskeletal models. However, the substantial intramuscular variation in architecture questions the validity of previously reported mean architectural parameters to adequately describe rotator cuff function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examine age-related differences in muscle size and strength of the knee extensors in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) and individuals with typical development (TD). 54 individuals with CP (14.5 ± 4.5 years, GMFCS I–V) and 33 individuals with TD (16.2 ± 5.5 years) were included. Relationships between rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscle volume and isokinetic knee extensor strength with age were examined with linear regression and ANCOVA to test age-related differences between groups. Linear regression for muscle volume with age was statistically significant in TD (VL: r2 = 0.48, RF: r2 = 0.56, p <.05) and those with CP (VL: r = 0.36, RF: r2 = 0.27, p <.05) with no differences in regression slopes between groups (p >.05). Age-related strength differences were observed in TD (r2 = 0.66, p <.001) and those with CP (r2 = 0.096, p =.024), but the slopes were significantly different between CP and TD (p <.001). Age-related linear differences in muscle volume and strength were observed in both groups. The linear slope of the age-related differences in knee extensor muscle strength and strength-to-body mass ratio were significantly lower in individuals with CP compared to individuals with TD, suggesting that strength is insufficient to keep up with gains in body mass during growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the plantar pressure distribution and knee and ankle muscle architecture in women with and without knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: Fifty women with knee OA (mean age = 52.11 ± 4.96 years, mean Body mass index (BMI) = 30.94 ± 4.23 kg/m2) and 50 healthy women as a control group (mean age = 50.93 ± 3.78 years, mean BMI = 29.06 ± 4.82 kg/m2) were included in the study. Ultrasonography was used to evaluate knee and ankle muscles architecture and femoral cartilage thickness. The plantar pressure distribution was evaluated using the Digital Biometry Scanning System and Milleri software (DIASU, Italy). Static foot posture was evaluated using the Foot Posture Index (FPI), and pain severity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale. Results: The OA group exhibited lower muscle thickness in Rectus Femoris (RF) (p = 0.003), Vastus Medialis (VM) (p = 0.004), Vastus Lateralis (p = 0.023), and Peroneus Longus (p = 0.002), as well as lower Medial Gastrocnemius pennation angle (p = 0.049) and higher Fat thickness (FT) in RF (p = 0.033) and VM (p = 0.037) compared to the control group. The OA group showed thinner femoral cartilage thickness (p = 0.001) and higher pain severity (p = 0.001) than the control groups. FPI scores were higher (p = 0.001) in OA group compared to the control group. The plantar pressure distribution results indicated an increase in total surface (p = 0.027), total load (p = 0.002), medial load (p = 0.005), and lateral load (p = 0.002) on dominant side in OA group compared to the control group. Conclusions: Knee and ankle muscle architecture, knee extensor muscle FT, and plantar pressure distribution in the dominant foot differed in individuals with knee OA compared to the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The age‐related loss of muscle mass is partly accounted for by the loss of sarcomeres in series, contributing to declines in muscle mechanical performance. Resistance training biased to eccentric contractions increases serial sarcomere number (SSN) in young muscle, however, maximal eccentric training in old rats previously did not alter SSN and worsened performance. A submaximal eccentric training stimulus may be more conducive to adaptation for aged muscle. The purpose of this study was to assess whether submaximal eccentric training can increase SSN and improve mechanical function in old rats. Twelve 32‐month‐old male F344/BN rats completed 4 weeks of submaximal (60% maximum) eccentric plantar‐flexion training 3 days/week. Pre‐ and post‐training, we assessed in‐vivo maximum isometric torque at a stretched and neutral ankle angle, the passive torque‐angle relationship, and the isotonic torque‐velocity‐power relationship. The soleus and medial gastrocnemius (MG) were harvested for SSN measurements via laser diffraction, with the untrained leg as a control. SSN increased 11% and 8% in the soleus and MG, respectively. Training also shifted optimal torque production towards longer muscle lengths, reduced passive torque 42%, and increased peak isotonic power 23%. Submaximal eccentric training was beneficial for aged muscle adaptations, increasing SSN, reducing muscle passive tension, and improving dynamic contractile performance.

The shape of skeletal muscle varies remarkably—with important implications for locomotor performance. In many muscles, the fibres are arranged at an angle relative to the tendons’ line of action, termed the pennation angle. These pennate muscles allow more sarcomeres to be packed side by side, enabling the muscle to generate higher maximum forces for a given muscle size. Historically, the physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) has been used to capture both the size and arrangement of muscle fibres, and is one of the best predictors of a muscles capacity to produce force. However, the anatomical and mechanical implications of PCSA remain ambiguous as misinterpretations have limited our ability to understand the mechanical advantage of pennate muscle designs. We developed geometric models to resolve the mechanistic and functional impacts of pennation angle across a range of muscle shapes and sizes. Comparisons among model predictions and empirical data on human lower limb muscles demonstrated how a pennate arrangement of fibres allows muscles to produce up to six times more isometric force when compared with non-pennate muscles of the same volume. We show that in muscles much longer than thick, an optimal pennation angle exists at which isometric force is maximized. Using empirically informed geometric models we demonstrate the functional significance of a pennate muscle design and provide a new parameter, pennation mechanical advantage, which quantifies this performance improvement.

Background: Associations between muscle architecture and rate of force development (RFD) have been largely studied during fixed‐end (isometric) contractions. Fixed‐end contractions may, however, limit muscle shape changes and thus alter the relationship between muscle architecture an RFD. Aim: We compared the correlation between muscle architecture and architectural gearing and knee extensor RFD when assessed during dynamic versus fixed‐end contractions. Methods: Twenty‐two recreationally active male runners performed dynamic knee extensions at constant acceleration (2000°s−2) and isometric contractions at a fixed knee joint angle (fixed‐end contractions). Torque, RFD, vastus lateralis muscle thickness, and fascicle dynamics were compared during 0–75 and 75–150 ms after contraction onset. Results: Resting fascicle angle was moderately and positively correlated with RFD during fixed‐end contractions (r = 0.42 and 0.46 from 0–75 and 75–150 ms, respectively; p < 0.05), while more strongly (p < 0.05) correlated with RFD during dynamic contractions (r = 0.69 and 0.73 at 0–75 and 75–150 ms, respectively; p < 0.05). Resting fascicle angle was (very) strongly correlated with architectural gearing (r = 0.51 and 0.73 at 0–75 ms and 0.50 and 0.70 at 75–150 ms; p < 0.05), with gearing in turn also being moderately to strongly correlated with RFD in both contraction conditions (r = 0.38–0.68). Conclusion: Resting fascicle angle was positively correlated with RFD, with a stronger relationship observed in dynamic than isometric contraction conditions. The stronger relationships observed during dynamic muscle actions likely result from different restrictions on the acute changes in muscle shape and architectural gearing imposed by isometric versus dynamic muscle contractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem statement: Currently, there is a lack of research exploring the relationship between lower-limb muscle pennation angles and physical performance. In this study, we aimed to investigate the morphological and physiological adaptations in muscle architecture among athletes, potentially influencing performance outcomes. Specifically, there is a need for further investigation into muscle pennation angles (PA) and performance parameters in female athletes. Addressing these gaps is crucial for implementing effective performance enhancement strategies and sport-specific training programmes to optimize sport performance in the female athlete population. Approach: A quantitative study was performed to examine relationships between muscle pennation angles and physical performance. Muscle pennation angles were assessed using ultrasonography in both extended and flexed states. Physical performance data were collected from 22 female athletes participating netball and football. Various performance tests including vertical jump, 40m sprints, Change of Direction (COD) tests and one Repetition Maximum (1RM) tests were conducted. A Shapiro-Wilk test evaluated data distributions. A correlation analyses assessed the strength of linear relationships between PAs and performance parameters, with a significance level of p<0.05. Purpose: While existing literature extensively explores the impact of muscle fascicle length changes during exercise and training protocols in various sports, there is a noticeable lack of attention given to the significance of muscle pennation angles in force production and muscle velocities. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the relationships between pennation angles and physical performance among netball and football athletes. Additionally, it recognises the interdependence of fascicle length and pennation angles, highlighting their architectural responses to training and sport demands. Results: Correlations presented (p>0.05) small to moderate relationships amongst PAs and performance parameters. Specifically, significant correlations between the left tibialis anterior PA, COD ability t-test (p = 0.006), 1RM strength (p = 0.010) and relative strength (p = 0.009) in the extended state. Correlations were also present between the right tibialis anterior PA, 40m sprint (p = 0.001) and COD ability t-test (p = 0.000) in the extended state. There were significant correlations between right tibialis anterior PA, 10m sprint (p = 0.011), 40m sprint (p = 0.008) and COD ability t-test (p = 0.002) in the flexed state. Conclusion: These findings highlight the significance of muscle architecture adaptations, particularly pennation angles, influencing force production and shortening velocities during athletic activities such as jumping, sprinting and COD actions. This study provides valuable insight into the relationship between muscle architecture and physical performance in female athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Despite the longstanding importance of grasping adaptations in theories of primate evolution, quantitative data on primate grasping strength remain rare. We present the results of two studies testing the prediction that callitrichines—given their comparative retreat from a small‐branch environment and specialization for movement and foraging on tree trunks and large boughs—should be characterized by weaker grasping forces and underdeveloped digital flexor muscles relative to other platyrrhines. Methods: First, we directly measured manual grasping strength in marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) and squirrel monkeys (Saimiri boliviensis), using a custom‐constructed force transducer. Second, we reanalyzed existing datasets on the fiber architecture of forearm and leg muscles in 12 platyrrhine species, quantifying digital flexor muscle physiological cross‐sectional area (i.e., PCSA, a morphometric proxy of muscle strength) relative to the summed PCSA across all forearm or leg muscles. Results: Callithrix was characterized by lower mean and maximum grasping forces than Saimiri, and callitrichines as a clade were found to have relatively underdeveloped manual digital flexor muscle PCSA. However, relative pedal digital flexor PCSA did not significantly differ between callitrichines and other platyrrhines. Conclusions: We found partial support for the hypothesis that variation in predominant substrate usage explains variation in empirical measurements of and morphological correlates of grasping strength in platyrrhines. Future research should extend the work presented here by (1) collecting morphological and empirical metrics of grasping strength in additional primate taxa and (2) extending performance testing to include empirical measures of primate pedal grasping forces as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different methods can be used to assess muscle hypertrophy, but the effects of training on regional changes in muscle size can be detected only using direct muscle measurements such as muscle thickness, cross-sectional area, or volume. Importantly, muscle size increases vary across regions within and between muscles after resistance training programs (i.e., heterogeneous, or nonuniform, muscle hypertrophy). Muscle architectural changes, including fascicle length and pennation angle, after resistance and stretch training programs are also region-specific. In this paper, we show that the literature indicates that a single-site measure of muscle shape does not properly capture the effects achieved after exercise training interventions and that conclusions concerning the magnitude of muscle adaptations can vary substantially depending on the muscle site to be examined. Thus, we propose that measurements of muscle size and architecture should be completed at multiple sites across regions between the agonist muscles within a muscle group and along the length of the muscles to provide an adequate picture of training effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spasticity of flexor digitorum profundus is frequently managed with botulinum toxin injections. Knowledge of the 3D morphology and intramuscular innervation of the digital bellies of flexor digitorum profundus is necessary to optimize the injections. The purpose of this study was to digitize and model in 3D the contractile and connective tissue elements of flexor digitorum profundus to determine muscle morphology, model and map the intramuscular innervation and propose sites for botulinum toxin injection. Fiber bundles (FBs)/aponeuroses and intramuscular nerve branches were dissected and digitized in 12 formalin embalmed cadaveric specimens. Cartesian coordinate data were reconstructed into 3D models as in situ to visualize and compare the muscle morphology and intramuscular innervation patterns of the bellies of flexor digitorum profundus. The 3rd, 4th and 5th digital bellies were superficial to the 2nd digital belly and located adjacent to each other in all specimens. Each digital belly had distinct intramuscular innervation patterns. The 2nd digital belly received intramuscular branches from the anterior interosseus nerve (AIN). The superior half of the 3rd digital belly was innervated intramuscularly by the ulnar nerve (n = 4) or by both the anterior interosseus and ulnar nerves (n = 1). The inferior half of the belly received dual innervation from the anterior interosseus and ulnar nerves in 2 specimens, or exclusively from the AIN (n = 2) or the ulnar nerve (n = 1). The 4th digital belly was innervated by intramuscular branches of the ulnar nerve. One main branch, after coursing through the 4th digital belly, entered the lateral aspect of the 5th digital belly and arborized intramuscularly. The morphology of the FBs, aponeuroses and intramuscular innervation of the digital bellies of FDP were mapped and modelled volumetrically in 3D as in situ. Previous studies were not volumetric nor identified the course of the intramuscular nerve branches within each digital belly. Based on the intramuscular innervation of each of the digital bellies, one possible optimized botulinum toxin injection location was proposed. This injection location, at the junction of the superior and middle thirds of the forearm, would be located in dense nerve terminal zones of the anterior interosseus and ulnar nerves. Future anatomical and clinical investigations are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of these anatomical findings in the management of spasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested that a reduced length of the biceps femoris long head (BF lh) fascicles may increase the risk of hamstring strain injury (HSI). However, it remains unclear whether the BF lh fascicles of the injured limb are shorter than those of the contralateral limb in athletes with an acute HSI. To investigate the between-limb asymmetry of BF lh fascicle length in amateur athletes with an acute HSI. Male amateur athletes were evaluated using ultrasound scans within five days following an HSI. The BF lh fascicle length was estimated using a validated equation. Eighteen injured athletes participated in this study. There was no significant difference (p = 0.27) in the length of BF lh fascicles between the injured limb (9.53 ± 2.55 cm; 95%CI 8.26 to 10.80 cm) and the uninjured limb (10.54 ± 2.87 cm; 95%CI 9.11 to 11.97 cm). Individual analysis revealed high heterogeneity, with between-limb asymmetries (percentage difference of the injured limb compared to the uninjured limb) ranging from −42% to 25%. Nine out of the 18 athletes had a fascicle length that was more than 10% shorter in the injured limb compared to the uninjured limb, five athletes had a difference of less than 10%, and four athletes had a fascicle length that was more than 10% longer in the injured limb compared to the uninjured limb. The architecture characteristics of injured and uninjured muscles is not consistent among athletes with HSI. Therefore, rehabilitation programs focused on fascicle lengthening should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To quantify the effects of the intrinsic signal pattern, image acquisition conditions, and data analysis conditions on diffusion‐tensor MRI (DTMRI) tractography–based muscle architecture estimates using a sampling–reconstruction assessment framework. Methods: Numerical models of muscles were constructed with realistic architectural properties. DTMRI signals were computed at signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of 24–96 and common voxel sizes. Fiber tracking was performed, and the results were compared with the known architectural properties. Results: SNR exerted the most significant impact on the outcome. The outcome variables approached asymptotes at SNR ≈ 54. Large in‐plane voxel dimensions reduced the similarity between reconstructed fibers and the known architectural properties. Higher order polynomials helped reconstruct fibers with more complicated geometry but overfit noise for less complex geometries. The intrinsic fiber curvature also affected the robustness of polynomial smoothing to SNR. Other conditions, such as the fiber dimensionality, voxel aspect ratio, and slice thickness, did not affect the outcomes. Conclusion: SNR ≥ 54 is recommended for accurate muscle architecture characterization using DTMRI. Averaged across all simulated conditions, the greatest percent errors under SNR = 54 were −5.6% and −4.0% for the pennation angle and fiber‐tract length estimates, respectively. For fiber tracts with intermediate intrinsic curvature, the greatest percent error for the curvature estimate was 9.8% for SNR = 54. Smaller in‐plane voxel size (≤1.5 mm) is preferred to minimize the estimation error in architectural properties. If necessary, slice thickness may be adjusted within typical ranges to achieve sufficient SNR when slices are aligned near the fiber direction. Third‐order polynomial fitting is appropriate for smoothing fiber tracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to compare the plantar pressure distribution and knee and ankle muscle architecture in women with and without knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods Fifty women with knee OA (mean age = 52.11 ± 4.96 years, mean Body mass index (BMI) = 30.94 ± 4.23 kg/m2) and 50 healthy women as a control group (mean age = 50.93 ± 3.78 years, mean BMI = 29.06 ± 4.82 kg/m2) were included in the study. Ultrasonography was used to evaluate knee and ankle muscles architecture and femoral cartilage thickness. The plantar pressure distribution was evaluated using the Digital Biometry Scanning System and Milleri software (DIASU, Italy). Static foot posture was evaluated using the Foot Posture Index (FPI), and pain severity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale. Results The OA group exhibited lower muscle thickness in Rectus Femoris (RF) (p = 0.003), Vastus Medialis (VM) (p = 0.004), Vastus Lateralis (p = 0.023), and Peroneus Longus (p = 0.002), as well as lower Medial Gastrocnemius pennation angle (p = 0.049) and higher Fat thickness (FT) in RF (p = 0.033) and VM (p = 0.037) compared to the control group. The OA group showed thinner femoral cartilage thickness (p = 0.001) and higher pain severity (p = 0.001) than the control groups. FPI scores were higher (p = 0.001) in OA group compared to the control group. The plantar pressure distribution results indicated an increase in total surface (p = 0.027), total load (p = 0.002), medial load (p = 0.005), and lateral load (p = 0.002) on dominant side in OA group compared to the control group. Conclusions Knee and ankle muscle architecture, knee extensor muscle FT, and plantar pressure distribution in the dominant foot differed in individuals with knee OA compared to the control group.

Background and objectiveFactors related to muscle architecture may lead to functional limitations in activities of daily living in the older adults. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between quadriceps femoris (QF) architecture and physical function in older adults community-dwelling people.MethodsThe study included 25 community-dwelling older adults participants aged over 60 years (14 women and 11 men) who were not engaged in regular physical activity. The rectus femoris (RF) and vastus intermedius (VI) muscle thicknesses as well as the RF cross-sectional area (CSA) were assessed using 2D ultrasonography. The 30 Seconds Chair Stand test (30sCST) and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) were used to assess lower body muscle power and functional mobility, respectively.ResultsThe QF muscle architecture showed moderate and large correlations with the 30sCST (r range = 0.45–0.67, p

Purpose: We investigated the effect of an unsupervised, body mass- home-based resistance training program in older adults performed at either a fast or slow contractile speed on changes to muscle-power, -volume, -architecture, and fatigue resistance of the knee extensors. Methods: Thirty-two male older adults (age 65–88 years) were separated into 1) fast-speed exercise (Fast-group), 2) slow-speed exercise (Slow-group), and 3) no exercise (Control-group) groups. Participants in the exercise groups performed 30–45 repetitions of knee-extension and sit-to-stand exercises 3 times a week for 8 weeks with different exercise speed between the groups. Before and after the intervention period, the following variables were measured: Isotonic power, isometric strength, twitch contractile properties, muscle-activity, -architecture, and -quality, neuromuscular fatigue resistance of the knee extensors, and thigh muscle volume. Results: Peak power was increased in both the Fast-group (+24 %, P

Recently, onychectomy, the “declaw” surgery in which all or part of the distal phalanges are removed, has been shown to have significant effects on the forearm muscles of felids. While this surgery should clearly affect the limb muscles (especially those that insert on the removed or modified bone), these effects have not been studied beyond felids or in the hindlimb. To that end, we herein evaluated the muscle architecture of a kinkajou (Potos flavus) that was declawed on all four of its limbs and compared its anatomy to that of intact specimens and the felid findings. As expected, some of the declawed kinkajou’s muscles were substantially different from those of the intact specimens, and as was seen in felids, its digital muscles appear to have been weaker. However, unlike in the felids, the declawed kinkajou had relatively larger forearm muscles. Also, contrary to expectation, the leg muscles of the declawed kinkajou were not substantially different, perhaps reflecting important differences in limb use. Future analyses should examine this anatomy in other declawed kinkajou specimens and also look at the effects of this surgery in other taxa, for instance, non-arboreal relatives of the kinkajou as well as other arboreal taxa.

Purpose: To examine the dose–response of the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) on biceps femoris long head (BFlh) architecture and eccentric knee flexor strength. Design: Randomized interventional trial. Methods: Forty recreationally active males completed a 6-week NHE training program consisting of either intermittent low volumes (group 1; n = 10), low volumes (group 2; n = 10), initial high volumes followed by low volumes (group 3; n = 10), or progressively increasing volumes (group 4; n = 10). A 4-week detraining period followed each program. Muscle architecture was assessed weekly during training and after 2 and 4 weeks of detraining. Eccentric knee flexor strength was assessed preintervention and postintervention and after 2 and 4 weeks of detraining. Results: Following 6 weeks of training, BFlh fascicle length (FL) increased in group 3 (mean difference = 0.83 cm, d = 0.45, P =.027, +7%) and group 4 (mean difference = 1.48 cm, d = 0.94, P =.004, +14%). FL returned to baseline following detraining in groups 3 and 4. Strength increased in group 2 (mean difference = 53.6 N, d = 0.55, P =.002, +14%), group 3 (mean difference = 63.4 N, d = 0.72, P =.027, +17%), and group 4 (mean difference = 74.7, d = 0.83, P =.006, +19%) following training. Strength returned to baseline following detraining in groups 2 and 3 but not in group 4. Conclusions: Initial high volumes of the NHE followed by lower volumes, as well as progressively increasing volumes, can elicit increases in BFlh FL and eccentric knee flexor strength. Low volumes of the NHE were insufficient to increase FL, although as few as 48 repetitions in 6 weeks did increase strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of unmodulated low-frequency superficial neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for 30 and 60 min/day during 7 weeks on muscle contractile functions. Many studies have examined the effect of training intensity during NMES on maximal voluntary isometric strength (MVIS). However, no study has assessed the effect of NMES duration per day and per week on changes in muscle functions. Ten healthy volunteers (23.2 ± 3.2 years; age range 18–28 years) participated in the study and were randomly assigned to group 1 (30 min NMES) and group 2 (60 min NMES) five times a week. The influence of NMES training was estimated by changes in MVIS and speed-strength properties of foot extensors before electrical training and in the beginning of each week of a 7-week training period for all subjects. Contractile abilities were recorded with a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. After a 7-week training period, MVIS and voluntary maximal explosive strength differed significantly between groups. Referring to electrical stimulation parameters and healthy subjects of this study, electrical training caused an increase in foot extensor muscle strength and a gradient in voluntary explosive strength when used for five trainings per week for 30 min for 7 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B-mode ultrasound can be used to image musculoskeletal tissues, but one major bottleneck is analyses of muscle architectural parameters (i.e., muscle thickness, pennation angle and fascicle length), which are most often performed manually. In this study we trained two different neural networks (classic U-Net and U-Net with VGG16 pre-trained encoder) to detect muscle fascicles and aponeuroses using a set of labeled musculoskeletal ultrasound images. We determined the best-performing model based on intersection over union and loss metrics. We then compared neural network predictions on an unseen test set with those obtained via manual analysis and two existing semi/automated analysis approaches (simple muscle architecture analysis [SMA] and UltraTrack). DL_Track_US detects the locations of the superficial and deep aponeuroses, as well as multiple fascicle fragments per image. For single images, DL_Track_US yielded results similar to those produced by a non-trainable automated method (SMA; mean difference in fascicle length: 5.1 mm) and human manual analysis (mean difference: –2.4 mm). Between-method differences in pennation angle were within 1.5°, and mean differences in muscle thickness were less than 1 mm. Similarly, for videos, there was overlap between the results produced with UltraTrack and DL_Track_US, with intraclass correlations ranging between 0.19 and 0.88. DL_Track_US is fully automated and open source and can estimate fascicle length, pennation angle and muscle thickness from single images or videos, as well as from multiple superficial muscles. We also provide a user interface and all necessary code and training data for custom model development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the sensitivity profiles of probabilistic and deterministic DTI tractography methods in estimating geometric properties in arm muscle anatomy. Methods: Spin‐echo diffusion‐weighted MR images were acquired in the dominant arm of 10 participants. Both deterministic and probabilistic tractography were performed in two different muscle architectures of the parallel‐structured biceps brachii (and the pennate‐structured flexor carpi ulnaris. Muscle fascicle geometry estimates and number of fascicles were evaluated with respect to tractography turning angle, polynomial fitting order, and SNR. The DTI tractography estimated fascicle lengths were compared with measurements obtained from conventional cadaveric dissection and ultrasound modalities. Results: The probabilistic method generally estimated fascicle lengths closer to ranges reported by conventional methods than the deterministic method, most evident in the biceps brachii (p > 0.05), consisting of longer, arc‐like fascicles. For both methods, a wide turning angle (50º–90°) generated fascicle lengths that were in close agreement with conventional methods, most evident in the flexor carpi ulnaris (p > 0.05), consisting of shorter, feather‐like fascicles. The probabilistic approach produced at least two times more fascicles than the deterministic approach. For both approaches, second‐order fitting yielded about double the complete tracts as third‐order fitting. In both muscles, as SNR decreased, deterministic tractography produced less fascicles but consistent geometry (p > 0.05), whereas probabilistic tractography produced a consistent number but altered geometry of fascicles (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Findings from this study provide best practice recommendations for implementing DTI tractography in skeletal muscle and will inform future in vivo studies of healthy and pathological muscle structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: Isokinetic strength assessment of the rotator cuff muscle is frequently applied in a variety of shoulder postures, but none of these consider muscular architecture, which is one of the most important aspects of improving strength development. This study aimed to examine the test and retest reliability and validity of the muscle architecture-based position (MABP), which is 25° abduction and 20° external rotation, in healthy subjects to be able to select a better isokinetic assessment position for shoulder rotator cuff muscles. Materials and methods: A total of 54 healthy males with a mean age of 21.0 ± 1.2 years and mean body mass index of 22.8 ± 1.7 kg/m2 completed an isokinetic measurement session. All of the tests were performed on an IsoMed 2000 isokinetic dynamometer concentrically and eccentrically for both upper limbs at 60°/s angular velocity. All of the participants completed 3 measurement sessions: the first represented the isokinetic testing and was performed in the scapular neutral position (SNP) (45° shoulder flexion and abduction), the second represented the MABP (25° abduction and 20° ER) for shoulder rotator cuff muscles, and the third represented the test and retest of the MABP. Results: The correlations between the 2 techniques for assessing concurrent validity ranged from 0.908 to 0.994. The values obtained from the MABP were higher than those obtained in the SNP. There was no systematic bias for any measurements between the MABP and the retest of the MABP (p > 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficients representing the test and retest reliability results for each variable measured with the MABP was higher than 0.98 and this value was considered as excellent reliability. Conclusion: In conclusion, the MABP can be used to assess the isokinetic strength of the rotator cuff muscles safely and confidently, with increased quantities of force being released and measurement at optimal muscle tension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) increases the moment arm of the deltoid; however, there is limited knowledge on the accompanying changes in muscle architecture that play a role in muscle force production. The purpose of this study was to use a geometric shoulder model to evaluate the anterior deltoid, middle deltoid, and supraspinatus regarding (1) the differences in moment arms and muscle-tendon lengths in small, medium, and large native shoulders and (2) the impact of 3 RSA designs on moment arms, muscle fiber lengths, and force-length (F-L) curves. A geometric model of the native glenohumeral joint was developed, validated, and adjusted to represent small, medium, and large shoulders. Moment arms, muscle-tendon lengths, and normalized muscle fiber lengths were assessed for the supraspinatus, anterior deltoid, and middle deltoid from 0° to 90° of abduction. RSA designs were modeled and virtually implanted, including a lateralized glenosphere with an inlay 135° humeral component (lateral glenoid–medial humerus [LGMH]), a medialized glenosphere with an onlay 145° humeral component (medial glenoid–lateral humerus [MGLH]), and a medialized glenosphere with an inlay 155° humeral component (medial glenoid–medial humerus [MGMH]). Descriptive statistics were used to compare moment arms and normalized muscle fiber lengths. As shoulder size increased, the moment arms and muscle-tendon lengths for the anterior deltoid, middle deltoid, and supraspinatus increased. All RSA designs achieved greater moment arms for the anterior and middle deltoid, with the MGLH design achieving the largest increase. The resting normalized muscle fiber length of the anterior and middle deltoid was substantially increased in the MGLH (1.29) and MGMH (1.24) designs, shifting the operating ranges of these muscles to the descending portions of their F-L curves, whereas the LGMH design maintained a resting deltoid fiber length (1.14) and operating range similar to the native shoulder. All RSA designs demonstrated a decrease in the native supraspinatus moment arm in early abduction, with the largest decrease in the MGLH design (−59%) and minimal decrease in the LGMH design (−14%). The supraspinatus operated on the ascending limb of its F-L curve in the native shoulder and remained on this portion of the F-L curve for all RSA designs. Although the MGLH design maximizes the abduction moment arm for the anterior and middle deltoid, overlengthening of the muscle may compromise deltoid muscle force production by forcing the muscle to operate on the descending portion of its F-L curve. In contrast, the LGMH design increases the abduction moment arm for the anterior and middle deltoid more modestly while allowing the muscle to operate near the plateau of its F-L curve and maximizing its force-producing potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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IntroductionParkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative condition observed primarily in the elderly population that gives rise to motor and non-motor symptoms, one of which is muscle weakness. The aim of this study was to characterize the vastus lateralis torque-fascicle length (T-L) and the knee extensors torque-angular velocity (T-V) and power-angular velocity (P-V) relationships in PD patients and to investigate the influence of muscle geometry on muscle mechanics.MethodsParticipants (11 PD: patients, 9 CR: age matched healthy controls; 10 CY: young healthy controls) performed: (i) isometric contractions (e.g., MVC) to obtain the torque-angle and T-L relationships; (ii) isokinetic (e.g., iso-velocity) contractions to obtain the T-V and P-V relationships. During the experiments, the architecture of vastus lateralis (pennation angle, fascicle length, muscle thickness) was also determined by using an ultrasound apparatus.ResultsSignificant differences were observed between PD patients and physically matched control groups (CR and CY) in terms of maximum isometric force (calculated as the apex of the T-L curve) and maximum mechanical power (apex of the P-V curve), but not in maximum shortening velocity. Among the mechanical variables investigated, mechanical power was able to identify differences between the less and the more affected side in PD patients, suggesting that this parameter could be useful for clinical evaluation in this population.ConclusionsThe observed results cannot be explained by differences in muscle geometry at rest (similar in the three cohorts), but rather by the muscle capacity to change in shape during contraction, that is impaired in PD patients.

Objective:This study aims to explore the effects of 12-week gait retraining (GR) on plantar flexion torque, architecture, and behavior of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) during maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC).Methods:Thirty healthy male rearfoot strikers were randomly assigned to the GR group (n = 15) and the control (CON) group (n = 15). The GR group was instructed to wear minimalist shoes and run with a forefoot strike pattern for the 12-week GR (3 times per week), whereas the CON group wore their own running shoes and ran with their original foot strike pattern. Participants were required to share screenshots of running tracks each time to ensure training supervision. The architecture and behavior of MG, as well as ankle torque data, were collected before and after the intervention. The architecture of MG, including fascicle length (FL), pennation angle, and muscle thickness, was obtained by measuring muscle morphology at rest using an ultrasound device. Ankle torque data during plantar flexion MVIC were obtained using a dynamometer, from which peak torque and early rate of torque development (RTD50) were calculated. The fascicle behavior of MG was simultaneously captured using an ultrasound device to calculate fascicle shortening, fascicle rotation, and maximal fascicle shortening velocity (Vmax).Results:After 12-week GR, 1) the RTD50 increased significantly in the GR group (p = 0.038), 2) normalized FL increased significantly in the GR group (p = 0.003), and 3) Vmax increased significantly in the GR group (p = 0.018).Conclusion:Compared to running training, GR significantly enhanced the rapid strength development capacity and contraction velocity of the MG. This indicates the potential of GR as a strategy to improve muscle function and mechanical efficiency, particularly in enhancing the ability of MG to generate and transmit force as well as the rapid contraction capability. Further research is necessary to explore the effects of GR on MG behavior during running in vivo.

Abstract Background In endurance running, elite Kenyan runners are characterized by longer thigh, shank, and Achilles tendon (AT) lengths combined with shorter fascicles and larger medial gastrocnemius (MG) pennation angles than elite Japanese runners. These muscle-tendon characteristics may contribute to the running performance of Kenyans. Furthermore, these specific lower-leg musculoskeletal architectures have been confirmed not only in elite Kenyan runners but also in non-athletic Kenyans since early childhood. However, it remains questionable whether the differences in muscle-tendon architecture between Kenyans and Japanese differ from those of European Caucasians. Therefore, this study aimed to compare anthropometry and muscle–tendon architecture of young non-athletic Kenyan males with their Japanese and French counterparts. Methods A total of 235 young non-athletic males, aged 17–22 years, volunteered. The anthropometric measures, thigh, and shank lengths, as well as AT and MG muscle architecture, were measured using ultrasonography and a tape measure. Inter-group differences in anthropometry and muscle-tendon architecture were tested using one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA analyses controlling for shank length and muscle thickness. Results The anthropometric and muscle-tendon characteristics of the non-athletic French were closer to those of the Kenyans than to those of the Japanese. However, the ultrasonography analysis confirmed that the non-athletic Kenyans had the longest AT as well as the shortest MG fascicles and the largest pennation angle compared to the French and Japanese, even after controlling for shank length and muscle thickness with ANCOVA, respectively. Conclusions These results confirmed the specificity of the muscle-tendon architecture of the triceps surae in Kenyans in comparison to their Japanese and French counterparts in non-athletic adults. This study provides additional support to the fact that Kenyans may have musculotendinous advantages in endurance running.

Introduction Lower limb muscle strength is an important predictor of sports performance, injury risk and frailty in ageing. The strength of a muscle is determined by its geometry and neuronal factors. Muscle geometry can be subdivided into architecture and morphology. Muscle morphology describes shape characteristics such as anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA), thickness or volume (Maden-Wilkinson et al., 2021). Muscle architecture is determined by muscle fascicle length and the insertion angle of the muscle fascicles in the aponeuroses and describes the orientation of the muscle fibers relative to their force generation axis (Lieber & Friden, 2000). Muscle geometry is associated to physical performance and strength in humans (Maden-Wilkinson et al., 2021; Werkhausen et al., 2022) and is therefore a main research interest. A cost-effective and participant friendly method to validly and reliably assess muscle geometry is ultrasonography. However, a major limitation of ultrasonography is the subjectivity of image acquisition and the time-consuming image analysis (Ritsche et al., 2021; Ritsche, Wirth, et al., 2022; Ritsche et al., 2023). Moreover, image characteristics are massively influenced by the ultrasonography device used (Ritsche, Schmid, et al., 2022) as well as the muscle region scanned (Monte & Franchi, 2023). This poses constraints on the generalizability of existing automated image analysis approaches. The goal of this series of studies is therefore to optimize the ultrasonography acquisition and data analysis procedures by developing open-source software packages. Secondly, we aim to apply these methods in a sports performance context and describe the relevance of muscle geometry. Methods To streamline the time-consuming and subjective process of image analysis, we developed open-source and user-friendly software packages for muscle geometry analysis in lower limb muscles. We developed a semi-automated algorithm “ACSAuto” for assisted analysis of muscle ACSA using common image filtering processes (Ritsche et al., 2021). Given the limited generalizability and required user input of this approach, we developed two fully automated software applications, “DeepACSA” and “DL_Track_US”, using convolutional neural networks for more time efficient and robust analysis of lower limb muscle geometry (Ritsche et al., 2023; Ritsche, Wirth, et al., 2022; Ritsche et al., in press). We compared the predictions in an unseen test set to the current state-of-the-art, manual analysis, in order to evaluate the performance of our algorithms. To broaden the application of ultrasonography for evaluating muscle geometry in a sports context, we investigated the validity of a low-cost mobile ultrasonography device compared to a high-end counterpart in assessing various muscle architectural parameters in healthy adults (Ritsche, Schmid, et al., 2022).The mobile ultrasonography setup consisted of a smartphone and a portable probe, enabling practitioners high flexibility in the assessment of muscle architecture. We further investigated the link between muscle geometry and performance among soccer players. In one study, we focused on the m. biceps femoris long head in under-13 to under-15 youth players, assessing architecture and morphology at the mid-muscle point and correlating these with their sprint times and maximum velocity (Ritsche et al., 2020). In a further study, we analyzed the mm. vastus lateralis and rectus femoris in both youth and adult players of both sexes, evaluating muscle geometry at various muscle lengths alongside their knee extension strength during isometric and isokinetic conditions (Ritsche et al., in preparation and under review). Results Both ACSAuto and DeepACSA showed high comparability in assessing lower limb muscle ACSA with standard error of measurement lower than one cm2 (SEM ranging from 1.2 to 9.5%; Ritsche et al., 2021; Ritsche, Wirth, et al., 2022). Moreover, DeepACSA provided fast and objective analysis comparable to manual segmentation with no supervision of the analysis process needed. The time needed for analysis was reduced by a factor of 10. DL_Track_US demonstrated high comparability to manual muscle architecture analysis of images and videos, i.e. dynamic situations, (Ritsche et al., 2023; Ritsche et al., in press) and a reduction in the duration of analysis by a factor of 100. The mobile ultrasonography system showed a high degree of reliability and comparability only for m. gastrocnemius medialis architecture assessment, with a standard error of measurement lower than 10% for all architectural parameters (Ritsche, Schmid, et al., 2022). Thus, its reliability and comparability depended on the muscle assessed. We observed relevant correlations between muscle ACSA in young and adult male soccer players as well as in female soccer players and performance (Ritsche et al., 2020; Ritsche et al., unpublished). Moreover, we observed changes in muscle geometry with age and differences between males and females. Specifically, m. biceps femoris ACSA was strongly correlated with 30m sprint times and maximal velocity (r = -0.61 and r = 0.61, respectively), highlighting its importance in athletic performance (Ritsche et al., 2020). M. vastus lateralis ACSA at 50% of muscle length was most frequently related to knee extension strength (r = 0.40 - 0.53), which was observed in both sexes and across several age groups of male soccer players (Ritsche et al., in preparation and under review). Relevant correlations occurred more frequently in older age groups and higher knee extension velocities. Interestingly, we did not observe relevant correlations between muscle architecture and performance in the mm. biceps femoris and vastus lateralis. Discussion/Conclusion The results of this series studies so far led to three main insights. Firstly, the development of the “ACSAuto”, “DeepACSA” and “DL_Track_US” tools, utilizing semi-automated and fully automated analysis techniques applying deep learning algorithms, marked another step forward in overcoming the subjectivity and time consuming image evaluation. In a user-friendly way, these tools enable reproducible and objective analyses of muscle geometry in ultrasonography images. Secondly, with technological advancements, assessing muscle geometry with ultrasonography is possible using a smartphone and a probe, and often gives comparable results to high-end devices (Ritsche, Schmid, et al., 2022). This allows for a broader and more versatile application of muscle geometry assessment. However, our results highlight the need for a selective approach based on the muscle group being assessed and technical improvements of existing devices. Lastly, our findings across several investigations reveal a relevant positive correlation between muscle ACSA and performance metrics such as sprint times and knee extension strength (Ritsche et al., 2020; Ritsche et al., unpublished), corroborating previous research (Maden-Wilkinson et al., 2021; Monte & Franchi, 2023). The relationship was more pronounced in older age groups, suggesting that muscle geometry's influence on performance may amplify with athletic maturity. Apart from that, we observed the relationship in the m. vastus lateralis to be region- and contraction velocity-dependent. In agreement with Werkhausen et al. (2022), no relation of muscle architecture with strength when assessed in a static resting position was observed. This highlights the need for a potential shift towards assessing changes in muscle geometry during contraction rather than in static situations when evaluating the relation between muscle geometry and performance. Finally, remaining challenges include the comparability of muscle geometry assessment in the literature, the analysis methods used and the low generalizability of available automated analysis approaches (ours included). There is a clear need for methodological consensus on the assessment of muscle geometry when using ultrasonography, and more versatile analysis approaches are needed to enable an easy, generalizable and reproducible analysis of images and videos. Therefore, future works should target to establish assessment and analysis guidelines of muscle geometry in ultrasonography images to increase the comparability and reproducibility of results. Moreover, assessing changes in muscle geometry during contraction rather than during rest should be focused. References Lieber, R. L., & Friden, J. (2000). Functional and clinical significance of skeletal muscle architecture. Muscle Nerve, 23(11), 1647–1666. https://doi.org/10.1002/1097-4598(200011)23:11%3C1647::aid-mus1%3E3.0.co;2-m Maden-Wilkinson, T. M., Balshaw, T. G., Massey, G. J., & Folland, J. P. (2021). Muscle architecture and morphology as determinants of explosive strength. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 121(4), 1099–1110. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-020-04585-1 Monte, A., & Franchi, M. V. (2023). Regional muscle features and their association with knee extensors force production at a single joint angle. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 123, 2239-2248. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-023-05237-w Ritsche, P., Bernhard, T., Roth, R., Lichtenstein, E., Keller, M., Zingg, S., Franchi, M. V., & Faude, O. (2020). M. biceps femoris long head architecture and sprint ability in youth soccer players. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 16(11), 1616-1624. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2020-0726 Ritsche, P., Schmid, R., Franchi, M. V., & Faude, O. (2022). Agreement and reliability of lower limb muscle architecture measurements using a portable ultrasound device. Frontiers in Physiology, 13, Article 981862. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2022.981862 Ritsche, P., Seynnes, O., & Cronin, N. (2023). DL_Track_US: A python package to analyse muscleultrasonography images. Journal of Open Source Software, 8(85), Article 5206. https://doi.org/10.21105/joss.05206 Ritsche, P., Wirth, P., Cronin, N. J., Sarto, F., Narici, M. V., Faude, O., & Franchi, M. V. (2022). DeepACSA: Automatic segmentation of cross-sectional area in ultrasound images of lower limb muscles using deep learning. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 54(12), 2188-2195. https://doi.org/10.1249/MSS.0000000000003010 Ritsche, P., Wirth, P., Franchi, M. V., & Faude, O. (2021). ACSAuto-semi-automatic assessment of human vastus lateralis and rectus femoris cross-sectional area in ultrasound images. Scientific Reports, 11, Article 13042. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-92387-6 Werkhausen, A., Gløersen, Ø., Nordez, A., Paulsen, G., Bojsen-Møller, J., & Seynnes, O. R. (2022). Rate of force development relationships to muscle architecture and contractile behavior in the human vastus lateralis. Scientific Reports, 12, Article 21816. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-26379-5

Background: Plantar intrinsic foot muscles (PIFMs) are composed of 10 muscles and play an essential role in achieving functional diversity in the foot. Previous studies have identified that the morphological profiles of PIFMs vary between individuals. The morphological profiles of a muscle theoretically reflect its output potentials: the physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA) of a muscle is proportional to its maximum force generation, and the muscle fiber length (FL) is its shortening velocity. This implies that the PCSA and FL may be useful variables for characterizing the functional diversity of the individual PIFM. The purpose of this study was to examine how individual PIFMs can be classified based on their PCSA and FL. Methods: In 26 healthy young adult males, the muscle volume and muscle length of seven PIFMs (abductor hallucis, ABDH; abductor digiti minimi, ABDM; adductor hallucis oblique head, ADDH-OH; ADDH transverse head, ADDH-TH; flexor digitorum brevis, FDB; flexor hallucis brevis, FHB; quadratus plantae, QP) were measured using magnetic resonance imaging. The PCSA and FL of each of the seven PIFMs were then estimated by combining the data measured from the participants and those of muscle architectural parameters documented from cadavers in previous studies. A total of 182 data samples (26 participants × 7 muscles) were classified into clusters using k-means cluster analysis. The optimal number of clusters was evaluated using the elbow method. Results: The data samples of PIFMs were assigned to four clusters with different morphological profiles: ADDH-OH and FHB, characterised by large PCSA and short FL (high force generation and slow shortening velocity potentials); ABDM and FDB, moderate PCSA and moderate FL (moderate force generation and moderate shortening velocity potentials); QP, moderate PCSA and long FL (moderate force generation and rapid shortening velocity potentials); ADDH-TH, small PCSA and moderate FL (low force generation and moderate shortening velocity potentials). ABDH components were assigned equivalently to the first and second clusters. Conclusions: The approach adopted in this study may provide a novel perspective for interpreting the PIFMs' function based on their maximal force generation and shortening velocity potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating anatomical contributions to performance can increase understanding of muscle mechanics and guide physical preparation. While the impact of anatomy on muscular performance is well studied, the effects of regional quadriceps architecture on rapid torque or force expression are less clear. Regional (proximal, middle, and distal) quadriceps (vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, and vastus intermedius) thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), and fascicle length (FL) of 24 males (48 limbs) were assessed via ultrasonography. Participants performed maximal isometric knee extensions at 40°, 70°, and 100° of knee flexion to evaluate rate of force development from 0 to 200 ms (RFD0-200). Measurements were repeated on three occasions with the greatest RFD0-200 and mean muscle architecture measures used for analysis. Linear regression models predicting angle-specific RFD0-200 from regional anatomy provided adjusted correlations (√adjR2) with bootstrapped compatibility limits. Mid-rectus femoris MT (√adjR2 = 0.41–0.51) and proximal vastus lateralis FL (√adjR2 = 0.42–0.48) were the best single predictors of RFD0-200, and the only measures to reach precision with 99% compatibility limits. Small simple correlations were found across all regions and joint angles between RFD0-200 and vastus lateralis MT (√adjR2 = 0.28 ± 0.13; mean ± SD), vastus lateralis FL (√adjR2 = 0.33 ± 0.10), rectus femoris MT (√adjR2 = 0.38 ± 0.10), and lateral vastus intermedius MT (√adjR2 = 0.24 ± 0.10). Between-correlation comparisons are reported within the article. Researchers should measure mid-region rectus femoris MT and vastus lateralis FL to efficiently and robustly evaluate potential anatomical contributions to rapid knee extension force changes, with distal and proximal measurements providing little additional value. However, correlations were generally small to moderate, suggesting that neurological factors may be critical in rapid force expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the recent findings on the acute and chronic effects of static stretching on joint behaviors and neuromuscular responses and to discuss the overall effects of acute and chronic static stretching on selected outcomes via meta-analyses, using a total of 50 recent studies. The results of our meta-analyses demonstrated that acute static stretching results in increased range of motion (ROM), decreased passive resistive torque (PRT), increased maximum tolerable PRT (PRTmax), decreased maximum voluntary isometric torque, decreased muscle–tendon unit stiffness, decreased muscle stiffness, decreased tendon stiffness, and decreased shear elastic modulus. Moreover, the chronic effects of static stretching included increased ROM, increased PRTmax, decreased muscle stiffness, and decreased shear elastic modulus (or shear wave speed). These results suggest that static stretching interventions have the potential to increase ROM and reduce the mechanical properties of muscle–tendon tissue, but they may not change corticospinal excitability and spinal reflex excitability or muscle architecture parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare muscle architecture and performance between male and female elite Field Hockey players and to investigate the relationships between echo intensity and performance. Twenty-one male (24.3 ± 3.6 y; 75.1 ± 8.5 kg; 176.8 ± 6.4 cm) and nineteen female players (27.4 ± 3.9 y; 61.2 ± 7.4 kg; 164.4 ± 4.9 cm) were tested for muscle thickness (MT) and echo intensity (EI) of trapezius (Trap) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles. Participants were also assessed for bench press power, and 30 m sprint. Results showed a higher VLMT and TrapMT in male players compared to female players (+22.1%; p = 0.004 and +25.8%; p = 0.001 for VLMT and TrapMT, respectively). A lower VLEI was detected in male players compared to female players (−20.7%; p = 0.001), while no significant differences were detected for TrapEI. Male players were faster than female players in a 30 m sprint and more powerful at the bench press (p < 0.001). Significant correlations were detected between VLEI and 30 m sprint (r = 0.74) in female players only. Results indicate that differences exist between male and female elite Field Hockey players in the EI of lower body muscles, while these differences are not present in the upper body muscles. EI, together with other sprint and power assessments, may represent an important parameter for elite Field Hockey players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Ageing sometimes leads to changes in the size, shape and structure of muscles. This impacts their ability to perform their functions and so leads to an increased likelihood of injuries and negatively impacts quality of life. This work attempts to investigate how the structure and performance of individual muscles of the human leg may change due to ageing, using a combination of magnetic resonance imaging and muscle strength testing in groups of aged (65+ years old) and young (18–40 years old) individuals. The results showed a larger difference in muscle structure and strength in the muscles that extend the knee (i.e., the quadriceps) between the age groups relative to other muscles, and these muscles also showed the strongest relationships between structure and strength. There was also greater variation in fibre lengths and variables linked to fibre type and quality within individual muscles in the aged group compared to the young group. Overall, these results show that even healthy ageing may cause large changes in muscle structure and decreases in performance and that the quadriceps muscles could be a target for exercises to reduce the negative effects of ageing. Even "healthy" muscle ageing is often associated with substantial changes in muscle form and function and can lead to increased injury risks and significant negative impacts on quality of life. However, the impacts of healthy muscle ageing on the fibre architecture and microstructure of different muscles and muscle groups throughout the lower limb, and how these are related to their functional capabilities, are not fully understood. Here, a previously established framework of magnetic resonance and diffusion tensor imaging was used to measure the muscle volumes, intramuscular fat, fibre lengths and physiological cross-sectional areas of 12 lower limb muscles in a cohort of healthily aged individuals, which were compared to the same data from a young population. Maximum muscle forces were also measured from an isokinetic dynamometer. The more substantial interpopulation differences in architecture and functional performance were located within the knee extensor muscles, while the aged muscles were also more heterogeneous in muscle fibre type and atrophy. The relationships between architecture and muscle strength were also more significant in the knee extensors compared to other functional groups. These data highlight the importance of the knee extensors as a potential focus for interventions to negate the impacts of muscle ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]