Details of human middle ear morphology based on micro-CT imaging of phosphotungstic acid stained samples.

A multitude of morphological aspects of the human middle ear (ME) were studied qualitatively and/or quantitatively through the postprocessing and interpretation of micro-CT (micro X-ray computed tomography) data of six human temporal bones. The samples were scanned after phosphotungstic acid staining to enhance soft-tissue contrast. The influence of this staining on ME ossicle configuration was shown to be insignificant.

Full-field thickness distribution of human tympanic membrane obtained with optical coherence tomography.

The full-field thickness distribution, three-dimensional surface model and general morphological data of six human tympanic membranes are presented. Cross-sectional images were taken perpendicular through the membranes using a high-resolution optical coherence tomography setup. Five normal membranes and one membrane containing a pathological site are included in this study.

Mechanical properties of human tympanic membrane in the quasi-static regime from in situ point indentation measurements.

The tympanic membrane is a key component of the human auditory apparatus. Good estimates of tympanic membrane mechanical properties are important to obtain realistic models of middle ear mechanics. Current literature values are almost all derived from direct mechanical tests on cut-out strips.

Open access high-resolution 3D morphology models of cat, gerbil, rabbit, rat and human ossicular chains.

High-resolution 3D morphology models of cat, gerbil, rabbit, rat and human ossicular chains are presented. The models are based on high-resolution CT measurements. The resolution of the CT images, from which the models are segmented, varies from 5.

High resolution gas volume change sensor.

Changes of gas quantity in a system can be measured either by measuring pressure changes or by measuring volume changes. As sensitive pressure sensors are readily available, pressure change is the commonly used technique. In many physiologic systems, however, buildup of pressure influences the gas exchange mechanisms, thus changing the gas quantity change rate.