Modelling finger force produced from different tasks using linear mixed models with lme R function

Abstract

The biomechanical data considered in this paper are obtained from a study carried out tounderstand the coordination patterns of finger forces produced from different tasks. Thevariable in this data cannot be considered independent because of within-individual repeatedmeasurements, and because of simultaneous finger measurements. To fit these data, we proposea methodology focused on linear mixed effects models. Different random effects structuresand complex variance-covariance matrices of the error are considered. We highlight how touse the lme R function to deal with such a modelling. The paper is accessible to an audienceexperienced with linear models. Some familiarity with the R software is also helpful.