Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention describe a MALDI (matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionization) sample plate body that includes a reusable sample plate and a sample plate adapter that are releasably coupled to one another. In one particular embodiment, the sample plate and the sample plate adapter are releasably coupled to one another to form the MALDI sample plate body by a latch formed by a spring-loaded hook within the sample plate adapter and a recess shaped to accept the hook within the sample plate. The MALDI sample plate body may be formed by aligning the sample plate with the sample plate adapter and coupling the sample plate to the sample plate adapter to releasably couple the sample plate to the sample plate adapter.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for manipulating parts of the body in surgical procedures, particularly useful for peritoneal distension in laparoscopic surgery. The apparatus comprises a positionable support structure having an extendible horizontal arm rotatably mounted to an extendible vertical post, the post having a clamp at its lower end for mounting to a surgical table. An end segment at the distal end of the horizontal arm has a mount for mounting end-of-arm tooling, for example, peritoneal distension instruments. Locking mechanisms are disposed in the horizontal arm, vertical post and end segment to lock the support structure in a desired position. A motor is disposed within the vertical post for power-assisted extension and retraction of the vertical post. Preferably, the locking mechanisms and motor are controllable using switches mounted on the end segment.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for manipulating parts of the body in surgical procedures, particularly useful for peritoneal distension in laparoscopic surgery. The apparatus comprises a positionable support structure having an extendible horizontal arm rotatably mounted to an extendible vertical post, the post having a clamp at its lower end for mounting to a surgical table. An end segment at the distal end of the horizontal arm has a mount for mounting end-of-arm tooling, for example, peritoneal distension instruments. Locking mechanisms are disposed in the horizontal arm, vertical post and end segment to lock the support structure in a desired position. A motor is disposed within the vertical post for power-assisted extension and retraction of the vertical post. Preferably, the locking mechanisms and motor are controllable using switches mounted on the end segment.