Machine learning  in spine biomechanics

Developed a framework that merges 3D body reconstruction and pose detection with musculoskeletal modeling, enabling comprehensive analysis of spinal biomechanics during complex activities from a single or multiple camera images.

Data-driven constitutive modeling 

Introduced dynamic mode decomposition in time-dependent constitutive modeling of rubbers.  

Integrated FE musculoskeletal model of spine

A subject-specific coupled FE-MS trunk model was developed, bridging the gap between passive finite element spine models and active multi-body musculoskeletal models, allowing detailed analyses in ergonomics and the impacts of surgical interventions.

Human disc with complex fiber networks

This study highlights the significance of accurately simulating individual lamellae as distinct layers in annulus fibrosus models and underscores the impact of testing parameters on the model's stress-strain responses.    

Data-driven design of auditory wearables

Poro-visco-elasticity of blood clots

For the first time, we challenged the common understanding about the time-dependent behavior of blood clots (attributed to viscoelasticity), and  showed that blood clot behaves as a poro-visco-elastic material. 

Computational biomechanics of stair ascent 

About a third of knee joint disorders originate from the patellofemoral (PF) site that makes stair ascent a difficult activity for patients. A detailed finite element model of the knee joint is coupled to a lower extremity musculoskeletal model to simulate the stance phase of stair ascent. 

Spine biomechanics during heavy deadlift

Heavy deadlift is used as a physical fitness screening tool in the U.S. Army. Despite the relevance of such a screening tool to military tasks performed by Service Members, the biomechanical impact of heavy deadlift and its risk of low-back injury remain unknown.

Blood clot fracture under cyclic loading

Fibrin clots, crucial in blood clot mechanics, are studied for their response to various mechanical loads. The research explores their fracture behavior, emphasizing the importance of their viscoelastic nature and hierarchical structure. By comparing them to biological tissues and hydrogels, this work enhances our understanding of clot mechanics.

Tough adhesive suture

Unlike conventional sutures, the tough adhesive suture in this study bridges the gap between the suture and surrounding tissues with a robust adhesive interface. Through deep tissue imaging and finite element modeling, we demonstrated that this suture inflicts less damage on meniscus tissue.                                                                                                        

Bioadhesives for disc repair

Disc herniation often requires surgery. This study introduces bioadhesives that combine a glue and sealant to repair the disc post-nucleotomy. Biomechanical tests demonstrate the capacity of the material to restore the biomechanics of bovine discs under cyclic loading and to prevent permanent herniation under extreme loading. 

Multi-scale failure analysis of annulus fibrosus

This study provided an insight into the intricate biomechanics of the annulus fibrosus (AF). We characterized the fracture toughness of AF. The AF exhibits various toughening mechanisms. At the micro-level, energy dissipation processes such as fiber rupture. At the nano-level, collagen unfolding serves as another toughening mechanism.