| abstract |
Biological cells plated on an elastic membrane are placed under biaxial strain for purposes of observation by a device that includes a support with an opening over which the membrane is secured, a movable cylinder coaxial with the opening and fitting closely but movably within the opening, and an actuating member that stabilizes and controls the position of the cylinder relative to the opening. The actuating member is coupled to the support by a threaded connection while engaging the movable cylinder. The degree of membrane stretch is accurately controlled by the rotation of the actuating member. |