Unconfined Compression Experimental Protocol for Cartilage Explants and Hydrogel Constructs: From Sample Preparation to Mechanical Characterization.

Mechanical characterization of articular cartilage and cell-seeded hydrogel constructs is a challenging task due to the complex biphasic behavior of these materials. Here we describe a step-by-step unconfined compression testing protocol for inverse mechanical characterization of these materials from sample preparation to parameter identification. Examples from our ongoing experiments on alginate hydrogel constructs and preserved and damaged cartilage explants obtained from human hip samples are presented.

Morphological and physiological differences in the upper trapezius muscle in patients with work-related trapezius myalgia compared to healthy controls: A systematic review.

Background: Trapezius myalgia is a common musculoskeletal complaint, characterized by pain, stiffness and tightness of the upper trapezius muscle. It is often work-related and caused by prolonged static and repetitive work tasks. It is hypothesized that this leads to various morphological and physiological alterations in muscle tissue but the pathophysiology is poorly understood.