Dexterity: A MATLAB-based analysis software suite for processing and visualizing data from tasks that measure arm or forelimb function

Abstract

Background Hand function is critical for independence, and neurological injury often impairs dexterity. To measure hand function in people or forelimb function in animals, sensors are employed to quantify manipulation. These sensors make assessment easier and more quantitative and allow automation of these tasks. While automated tasks improve objectivity and throughput, they also produce large amounts of data that can be burdensome to analyze. We created software called Dexterity that simplifies data analysis of automated reaching tasks. New Method Dexterity is MATLAB software that enables quick analysis of data from forelimb tasks. Through a graphical user interface, files are loaded and data are identified and analyzed. These data can be annotated or graphed directly. Analysis is saved, and the graph and corresponding data can be exported. For additional analysis, Dexterity provides access to custom scripts created by other users. Results To determine the utility of Dexterity, we performed a study to evaluate the effects of task difficulty on the degree of impairment after injury. Dexterity analyzed two months of data and allowed new users to annotate the experiment, visualize results, and save and export data easily. Comparison with Existing Method(s) Previous analysis of tasks was performed with custom data analysis, requiring expertise with analysis software. Dexterity made the tools required to analyze, visualize and annotate data easy to use by investigators without data science experience. Conclusions Dexterity increases accessibility to automated tasks that measure dexterity by making analysis of large data intuitive, robust, and efficient.

Automated Forelimb Tasks for Rodents: Current Advantages and Limitations, and Future Promise

“…Analysis methods are being developed to translate voluminous data into sensible outcomes. Dexterity 49 is one example of such software, developed in conjunction with the knob supination task. Dexterity is MATLAB-based software that is capable of handling large data sets and quickly visualizes or prepares the data sets for more complex analysis.…”