Abstract: An image processing system and method is provided. The image processing system includes a display, a processor, and a memory. The memory stores processor-executable code that when executed by the processor causes receiving an image of a region of interest of a patient with a medical catheter, tube or line disposed within the region of interest, detecting the medical tube or line within the image, generating a patient coordinate system relative to an anatomy of the patient within the image, generating a combined image by superimposing a first graphical marker on the image that indicates an end of the medical catheter, tube or line, and a second graphical marker on the image that indicates patient coordinate system, and displaying the combined image on the display. In addition, the system assesses common visualizable complications associated with CVC placement, including but not limited to hydrothorax, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum and CVC position changes between x-rays taken at different times.

Abstract: Described embodiments relate to a chemical processing instrument configured to receive one or more sample cartridges, to process one or more corresponding fluid samples. The chemical processing instrument comprises: a reagent dispenser configured to dispense one or more fluid reagents into a reagent vessel via an open top of the reagent vessel; and a pneumatic module configured to connect to a primary pneumatic port of a primary reaction vessel and selectively adjust a pressure within the primary reaction vessel when the lid is closed to draw fluid from the reagent vessel through a primary reagent channel into the primary reaction vessel.

Abstract: A beverage container equipped with a straw includes a straw that is arranged within the container so that the straw pops up automatically when the container is being opened; the straw includes a buoyant member and an accordion section above its buoyant member; the beverage container further includes, at its upper end, a guiding means for guiding the straw, when the container is being opened, substantially in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the container, for fixing the upper end of the straw in the state of storage of the container, and for limiting the extent of emersion of the straw.