Abstract: A non-rigid object holder unit for use in examination of an object, the unit having a base support, a member movably mounted with respect to the base support to accommodate various sized object. A removable resilient membrane is attached to the first member forming an inflatable component for holding the object to be examined between the inflatable component and the base support. A pressure system operably connected to the inflatable component for controllably inflating the inflatable component. A source of electromagnetic radiation optically associated with the base support and inflatable component for providing a beam of light to the object and an optical detecting system optically aligned with the source of electromagnetic radiation for receiving the electromagnetic radiation passing through and/or being backscattered from the object. In addition, both the base support and member containing the inflatable component are movable together to accommodate various sized patients.

Abstract: A non-rigid object holder assembly for use in examination of an object having a base (6), a first member (5) and a second member (2) movably mounted with respect to each other and said base (6), a mechanism (8) for controllably moving the members with respect to each other and the base. A first resilient membrane (4) attached to the first member (5) and a second resilient membrane (1) attached to the second member (2), the first and the second resilient membranes forming first and second inflatable components (4′,1′) for holding the object to be examined therebetween. A pressure system ((11, 19) operably connected to the first and the second inflatable components for controllably inflating each of the inflatable components.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing a living organism by analyzing at least two physical parameters of a region under investigation of the living organism in order to provide a multimodal approach to living organism diagnosis. By utilizing information derived from the plurality of physical parameters to generate a series of functional maps, and by, in some instances, applying external influences to the living organism, accurate diagnosis of the living organism can take place.