Abstract
The viscoelastic response of inert polymers, with respect to stress relaxation and creep, can be sped up by increasing their temperature or slowed down by decreasing their temperature. An explanation for such behavior is the existence of an internal clock whose speed relative to the laboratory clock is affected by temperature. It is assumed that the viscoelastic response of biological tissue can be affected by a biochemical factor, such as a hormone or medication, in a manner similar to that of temperature for an inert polymer. The concept of the intrinsic clock is introduced into the constitutive theory for the viscoelastic response of biological materials. Two examples are presented that illustrate the implications of a biochemically dependent internal clock: (1) cervical softening during birth due to a hormone release, (2) blood vessel dilation induced by medication.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
