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| Author(s): |
Leonardo Abdala Elias
Total Authors: 1
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| Document type: | Doctoral Thesis |
| Press: | São Paulo. |
| Institution: | Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Escola Politécnica (EP/BC) |
| Defense date: | 2013-08-19 |
| Examining board members: |
André Fabio Kohn;
Arturo Forner Cordero;
Marcos Duarte;
Luciano Luporini Menegaldo;
Rinaldo André Mezzarane
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| Advisor: | André Fabio Kohn |
| Abstract | |
The neurophysiological control of movement has been studied from several standpoints. Human experiments are performed during the execution of a given motor task and, frequently, by applying an external stimulation (electrical, magnetic, or mechanical) to the neuromuscular system. These experiments provide a large amount of data concerning the functioning of the neuronal networks and biomechanical actuators involved in the procedures. Nonetheless, some experimental findings remain puzzling, so that other available resources should be used to clarify what mechanisms are behind these results. In this vein, the mathematical modeling and computer simulations are invaluable tools that may be used to better understand the neurophysiological and biomechanical mechanisms underlying the motor control. The present PhD thesis aimed at providing a biologically plausible neuromusculoskeletal model that was used to study different mechanisms involved in the control of the ankle joint torque. This model was based on a previous neuromuscular model, which did not employ several elements that are fundamental to a comprehensive evaluation of the motor system. The novel proposed model encompasses motor neuron models with active dendrites, muscle proprioceptors responsible for the short- and medium-latency reflex pathways, muscle models with the main viscoelastic features, and a biomechanical model of the human body during upright stance. It was applied to a series of problems frequently related to the functioning of the neuromusculoskeletal system and its main outcomes provided important theoretical bases for a set of experimental findings. (AU) | |
| FAPESP's process: | 09/15802-0 - Modelling and simulation of torque control by proprioceptive feedback through the nervous system: application to postural control |
| Grantee: | Leonardo Abdala Elias |
| Support Opportunities: | Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate |