Abstract: A target irradiation system and an effector of the same for applying a sealing force on to an irradiation target are disclosed. A platen for pressing against the irradiation target is forced upon by a column receiving the sealing force, via an orbicular surface to facilitate angular positioning of the column relative to the platen. A collar surrounds the column and is attached thereto and to the platen. The collar is resiliently deformable to, while allowing the sealing force to be transmitted on to the platen via the orbicular surface, force the platen against the irradiation target to facilitate angular alignment of the platen and the irradiation target. Fluid conduits in the effector may fluidly communicate with cooling channels in the irradiation target to provide cooling using coolant and to allow suction of the irradiation target by the effector by depressurization of the conduits when sealed against the cooling channels.

Abstract: An elastic structure is introduced percutaneously into the left ventricle and attached to the walls of the ventricle. Over time the structure bonds firmly to the walls via scar tissue formation. The structure helps the ventricle expand and fill with blood during the diastolic period while having little affect on systolic performance. The structure also strengthens the ventricular walls and limits the effects of congestive heart failure, as the maximum expansion of the support structure is limited by flexible or elastic members.

Abstract: An automated slide scanning system is described. The system comprises an automated focusing unit that is simple and that provides a fine adjustment of a focusing tube without any backlash. The focusing unit comprises a block that is cut or fabricated in a pattern forming a head to support a focusing tube and at least one elongated and rigid arm projecting perpendicularly from the head. One end of the at least one arm is integrally joined to the head. The focusing unit further comprises an elongated, rigid, lever which is substantially parallel and spaced apart from the at least one arm. The lever is pivotally mounted to a hinge and has a first end that is linked to the head of the focusing unit and a second free end. The focusing unit further includes a drive mechanism with a roller coupled to a motor. The roller is eccentric roller and is in constant contact to the lever's second end.

Abstract: An automated slide scanning system is described. The system comprises an automated focusing unit that is simple and that provides a fine adjustment of a focusing tube without any backlash. The focusing unit comprises a block that is cut or fabricated in a pattern forming a head to support a focusing tube and at least one elongated and rigid arm projecting perpendicularly from the head. One end of the at least one arm is integrally joined to the head. The focusing unit further comprises an elongated, rigid, lever which is substantially parallel and spaced apart from the at least one arm. The lever is pivotally mounted to a hinge and has a first end that is linked to the head of the focusing unit and a second free end. The focusing unit further includes a drive mechanism with a roller coupled to a motor. The roller is eccentric roller and is in constant contact to the lever's second end.

Abstract: An elastic structure is introduced percutaneously into the left ventricle and attached to the walls of the ventricle. Over time the structure bonds firmly to the walls via scar tissue formation. The structure helps the ventricle expand and fill with blood during the diastolic period while having little affect on systolic performance. The structure also strengthens the ventricular walls and limits the effects of congestive heart failure, as the maximum expansion of the support structure is limited by flexible or elastic members.

Abstract: The invention controls the break-off point of twisted wires to predictably break at the edge of the tightening tool. This is achieved by slightly weakening the wire at this point, using the pressure of the tightening tool and the shape of the jaw to introduce a controlled weak point. The tool creates uniform and strong twisted wire joints.