Schematic of sample extraction and analysis regions. Dotted lines represent cut surfaces. Adaxial (AD) sections were used for collagen fiber orientation and interdigitation analyses, abaxial (AB) sections were used for mechanical evaluation. Inset shows the unique zones of the meniscal attachments: Ligamentous (LI), Uncalcified Fibrocartilage (UFC), Calcified Fibrocartilage (CFC), and Subchondral Bone (SB). The regions of fibrocartilage are separated by the tidemark (TM). Boxed region represents areas used for polarized light analysis (SUFC – Superior UFC, DUFC – Deep UFC, DCFC – Deep CFC, S – Superior CFC). Dots represent location of mechanical evaluation using nanoindentation. Indentation was performed in a region 300μm above and below the TM. Section is stained using toluidine blue and counter stained using Von Kossa technique.