Figure 1 (IMAGE) University of Missouri-Columbia Caption The spectrum of mechanical loading conditions applied to articular cartilage in the synovial joint. At one end of the spectrum, articular cartilage is subjected to cyclic hydrostatic pressure when an individual walks or runs. Alternatively, astronauts on long-term space missions experience mechanical unloading within their joints. To simulate these conditions experimentally, loading can be simulated using a hydrostatic pressure vessel and unloading can be simulated in a rotating wall vessel bioreactors. Credit <I>Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance</I>. Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.