In order to compare and optimize powders regarding flowability and to design powder handling equipment like silos, feeders, and flow promoting devices, it is necessary to know the mechanical properties – the so-called flow properties. In the present paper it is outlined which physical parameters describe the flow properties of a powder or a bulk solid, and how these parameters are determined ex...

Whether 2,3-butanedione monoxime (BDM, < or = 5mmol/l) suppresses primarily crossbridge cycling or total Ca(2+) handling in the blood-perfused whole heart remains controversial. Although BDM seems to suppress primarily total Ca(2+) handling in canine hearts, more evidence is lacking. We therefore analyzed the cardiac mechanoenergetics, namely, E(max) (contractility), PVA (total mechanical energ...

Biomass utilization for bio-energy, bio-fuels or bio-based products requires reduction of the material size within specific ranges depending on feedstock specie, handling and further processing / conversion processes. Biomass size reduction is a mechanical treatment process that refers to either cutting or comminuting processes that significantly change the particles size, shape and bulk densit...

A life-size mechanical middle ear model and human temporal bones were used to evaluate three different middle ear transducers for implantable hearing aids: the driving rod transducer (DRT), the floating mass transducer (FMT) or vibrant sound bridge, and the contactless transducer (CLT). Results of the experiments with the mechanical model were within the range of the results for human temporal ...

Two evolutionary algorithms – the genetic algorithm and the evolution strategy – are compared in respect of mechanical design problems. Mechanical design problems are real world problems, characterized by a number of inequality constraints, nonlinear equations, mixed discrete-continuous variables and the presence of interdependent discrete parameters whose values are taken from standardized tab...

Mechanical methods of euthanasia have distinct welfare advantages, since when the methods are employed correctly animals are rendered instantly unconscious and hence unable to experience pain, fear or distress. When personnel are skilled and equipment is well maintained, death is rapidly and humanely induced, but these methods can be aesthetically disturbing for some people. Mechanical methods ...

A new concentrator receiver containing a 7 mm X 7 mm 3J concentrator solar cell with a 37.4 % peak efficiency was developed. The receiver design includes a homogenizer, heat handling (epoxy lamination) technologies and a low resistance soldered connection and can be applied to various concentrator optics, including dish systems. The outdoor efficiency with a combination of a plastic Fresnel len...

Objectives. The mechanical properties of membranes are important factors in the success of treatment and clinical handling. The goal of this study was to compare the mechanical properties of early leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) versus PRGF/Endoret membrane. Materials and Methods. In this experimental study, membranes were obtained from 10 healthy male volunteers. After obtaining 20...

The development of a novel system integrating SU-8 micro-grippers with a tensile force sensor for handling and characterising the mechanical properties of delicate biological samples, such as fibrils, is presented. The micro-grippers are actuated by the electro-thermal effect and have gripping forces comparable to the common “hot-and-cold-arm” grippers. A thorough and robust finite element mode...

Objectives- Recording intraoperative cardiorespiratory events in thoracoscopic total pericardiectomy via transdiaphragmatic camera port in dog to evaluate feasibility and risks of mechanical stimulation of pherenic nerve during this surgical approach.Design- Technical assessment, experimental study.Animals- Nine healthy, male mixed breed dogs.Procedures- Under one lung ventilation inhalation ge...