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Research
Capabilities

Isokinetic Dynamometer

The HUMAC NORM Isokinetic dynamometer is the gold-standard in muscle-strength testing. Similar machines are popular devices found in sports medicine clinics, physical therepay offices, and many Kinesiology laboratories. This critical piece of equipment allows for the measurement of strength (i.e., torque) and speed (i.e., velocity) during a muscle contraction. This can be done in a variety of conditions including: isometric, isokinetic, or isotonic. This device is used in many of our studies that are focused around "strength".

Trigno Reserach+

A 16-channel Delsys research plus system provides great flexibility in non-invasively collecting many physiologic signals simultaneously. Currently, we have 8 seperate Avanti sEMG sensors, 2 seperate Gallelio sEMG grid sensors, and 2 seperate auxillary sensors (5V, load cell). These sensors are used to wirelessly collect data from our participants. Specifically, these devices are placed on the surface of the skin in order to detect myoelectric signals produced during various muscle contractions. This device is often used in conjunction with the Isokinetic Dynamometer.

Brightness-Mode Ultrasound

The GE LOGIQ E, Brightness-mode device is a portable and compact ultrasound imaging system. Ultrasound imaging systems use non-invasive high-frequency sound waves to produce images of various internal systems (i.e., organs, skeletal muscle) in real-time. It is commonly used in medical and research settings. This device features a variety of imaging modes including B-mode, M-mode, Color Flow Doppler, and Power Doppler. Additionally, this unit has LOGIQ view (GE's proprietary Extended Field of View function) which allows for the ability to image areas that are larger than the field of view of the 6cm linear-array ultrasound probe. In other words, we are able to quickly assess metrics of muscle morphology for the upper- and lower-body regardless of the size or location with this state-of-the-art imaging device. 

Constant current stimulator

The Digitimer DS7R is a  high-performance constant-current (400V) stimulator that is designed for various research and clinical applications. The stimulator generates electrical pulses of varying duration, frequency, and amplitude, and can be used to stimulate a wide range of tissue types, including muscle and nerve. The DS7R features include a fully isolated output stage, dual-mode pulse width control, and many safety features. Also within the laboratory is a Digitimer DG2A, a train/delay Generator. This device is used in conjunction with the DS7R to generate precise and accurate timing of electrical pulses with further control on the duration, repetition, and delay of the stimulation delivery.  

These devices are used in some studies when we are studying the properties of myo- and/or neuro-electrical responses (i.e., M-wave, H-Reflex). 

Bioelectrical Impedance Spectrocopy

The ImpediMed SFB7 is a non-invasive bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) device tailored for comprehensive body composition assessments. It utilizes low-level electrical currents to measure impedance through body tissues, offering insights into fat-free mass, body fat, and total body water. With precision and efficiency, the SFB7 aids in monitoring changes in body composition and hydration status.  The SFB7 plays a critical role in studies exploring myo- and neuro-electrical responses. Most recently, our group has aimed to use this BIS device to serve as a novel measure of regional muscle quality. 

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