Velocity-dependent cost function for the prediction of force sharing among synergistic muscles in a one degree of freedom model.

Prediction of accurate and meaningful force sharing among synergistic muscles is a major problem in biomechanics research. Given a resultant joint moment, a unique set of muscle forces can be obtained from this mathematically redundant system using nonlinear optimization. The classical cost functions for optimization involve a normalization of the muscle forces to the absolute force capacity of the target muscles, usually by the cross-sectional area or the maximal isometric force.

Antagonistic activity of one-joint muscles in three-dimensions using non-linear optimisation.

Non-linear optimisation, such as the type presented by R.D. Crowninshield and R.

Analysis of the force-sharing problem using an optimization model.

In biomechanics, one frequently used approach for finding a unique set of muscle forces in the 'force-sharing problem' is to formulate and solve a non-linear optimization problem of the form: min phi(f)= summation operator (f(i)/omega(i))(alpha) subject to Af = b and f > or = 0. Solutions to this problem have typically been obtained numerically for complex models, or analytically for specific musculoskeletal geometries. Here, we present simple geometrical methods for analyzing the solution to this family of optimization problems for a general n-degrees-of-freedom musculoskeletal system.

The antianginal agent trimetazidine does not exert its functional benefit via inhibition of mitochondrial long-chain 3-ketoacyl coenzyme A thiolase.

Trimetazidine acts as an effective antianginal clinical agent by modulating cardiac energy metabolism. Recent published data support the hypothesis that trimetazidine selectively inhibits long-chain 3-ketoacyl CoA thiolase (LC 3-KAT), thereby reducing fatty acid oxidation resulting in clinical benefit. The aim of this study was to assess whether trimetazidine and ranolazine, which may also act as a metabolic modulator, are specific inhibitors of LC 3-KAT.

Mark-recapture of Culex erythrothorax in Santa Cruz County, California.

The dispersal of the tule mosquito, Culex erythrothorax, was studied in the proximity of Lake Tynan in the city of Watsonville, CA. From July 18 to 20, 2000, approximately 43,000 female Cx. erythrothorax were marked with luminous powder and released, using a distinct color each day.