Dissertation Research: Thoracic Specialization, Integration,and Locomotor Habit in the Lagomorpha

9321638 Bramble这是一项比较形态学研究，探讨了高游猎、中度游猎和非游猎狐目动物（野兔、棉尾兔和鼠兔）的胸部设计和运动行为之间的功能关系。我们将采用一种新的方法来理解胸腔复合体的功能形态：在运动过程中，我们将研究肺的机械作用以及肺、心脏和肋骨之间的相互作用。一个以前未被探索的肺在胸腔内的功能将被建模：气动稳定。这项研究将验证肺除了作为气体交换器的作用外，还可能作为胸壁和心脏的气动稳定器，并且这种机制将与跑步能力呈正相关的假设。将开发一个模型，描述哺乳动物胸腔复合体在运动过程中的综合功能，该模型基于其组成元素的形态、材料特性和机械相互作用。高速射线摄影分析将用于尸体和活兔子的动态测试，以描述胸部复体元素的相互作用，并测试气动稳定模型的基本预测。＊＊＊

9321638 Bramble This is a comparative morphological study that addresses the functional relationships between thoracic design and locomotor behavior among highly cursorial, moderately cursorial, and non- cursorial members of the order Lagomorpha (hares, cottontails, and pikas). A novel approach will be take to understand the functional morphology of the thoracic complex: the mechanical role of the lungs and the interaction of lungs, heart, and ribs, during locomotion will be examined. A previously unexplored function of the lungs within the thorax will be modeled: pneumatic stabilization. This study will test the hypothesis that lungs, in addition to their role as gas exchangers, may act as pneumatic stabilizers of the chest walls and heart and that this mechanism will be positively correlated with running ability. A model will be developed which describes the integrated function of the mammalian thoracic complex during exercise based on the morphology, material properties, and mechanical interactions of its constituent elements. High speed cineradiographic analysis will be used in dynamic tests of both cadavers and live rabbits in order to describe the interactions of elements of the thoracic complex and to test essential predictions of the pneumatic stabilization model. ***