Design and validation of an analyser to measure sulphur hexafluoride gas during respiration.

The study presents the results of the development of an analyser to measure sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas in breathing circuits, for application is studies of lung function. The analyser consists of an in-line breathing circuit measurement transducer and a compact unit for signal treatment. The detector unit of the analyser consists of a near-infrared light source, a bandpass filter and a pyro-electrical detector.

Cervical dilatation related to uterine electromyographic activity and endocrinological changes during prostaglandin F(2alpha)-induced parturition in cows.

The temporal relationship between changes in cervical dilatation, uterine electromyographic (EMG) activity, and maternal plasma concentrations of estradiol 17beta (E(2)), progesterone (P(4)), and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin-F(2alpha) (PGFM), was investigated in six parturient cows. Calving was induced with a single injection of a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PG) on Day 274 of gestation. Cervical dilatation was measured continuously by measuring the transit time between two implanted ultrasound crystals while at the same time uterine EMG activity was measured through two silver electrodes sutured on the myometrial surface until the expulsive stage of calving had been reached.

Ultrasonic cervimetry to study the dilatation of the caudal cervix of the cow at parturition.

The objective of this study was to investigate the temporal changes in dilatation of the caudal cervix during induced calvings (n = 5). We used ultrasound cervimetry, allowing the continuous recording of the distance between a transmitting and receiving ultrasound crystal, which were implanted opposite to each other on the caudal rim of the cervix. We started recording between 19 and 21 h after injecting a prostaglandin analogue (PG) on day 272 of gestation.

Analysis of voided urine volumes measured using a small electronic pocket balance.

The aim of this research was to analyse variations in voided volumes and duration and time of voiding during daily activities on a physiological basis, and to explore the possible diagnostic value of the associated parameters. A small electronic device was developed to accurately measure voided urine volumes in healthy volunteers during consecutive periods of two to three weeks. In subsequent analysis, the voided volumes were related to the time interval between voidings and the duration of voiding.

A device for long-term ambulatory monitoring in trans-tibial amputees.

Long-term monitoring of walking in trans-tibial amputees (TTA) is considered important for prosthetic prescription and therapy evaluation. The purpose of this study was to develop a device with the following design criteria: lightweight, easy attachment to the prosthesis, energy and memory capacity for five days and practical in clinical use. The prototype (CAMP: Continuous Ambulatory Monitoring of Prosthetic walking) consists of a cylindrical unit containing an accelerometer, a miniature computer and six batteries.

A semiautomated test apparatus for studying partner preference behavior in the rat.

A semiautomated three-compartment box (3CB) for studying partner preference behavior of rats is described. This apparatus automatically records the rat's time spent in each compartment, as well as the locomotor activity (i.e.

Computer-controlled wheelchair ergometer.

A new wheelchair ergometer has been designed in which a combination of realistic simulation of wheelchair propulsion--with adjustable parameters for rolling resistance, air drag, wind speed and slope--and force measurement has been realised. The static solution enables the measurement of physiological and kinesiological parameters. All data from force transducers in seat and backrest, torque transducers in the wheels and force transducers in the wheelframes as well as the acquired speed are sampled in a data-acquisition system.

An ultrasonic device for continuous measurement of cervical dilation during labor.

This paper describes ultrasonic apparatus for continuous registration of cervical dilation during the first stage of labour. The techniques used ensure maximum safety for the patients and do not influence the normal birth process.