Abstract: A method for rapid purification of a blood component from blood is described in which the blood plasma is first separated from the cellular blood elements by any conventional means, such as centrifugation. An affinity cartridge is then activated with a molecule, such as an amino acid, which binds with a blood component such as plasminogen. The separated blood plasma is then passed through the affinity cartridge such that the blood component is retained by the affinity cartridge. Thereafter, the blood component is eluted from the affinity cartridge by passing a buffer solution containing a releasing agent through the affinity cartridge. This releasing agent disengages the blood component from the affinity cartridge. The releasing agent is then separated from the eluted solution by passing the eluted solution through a device, such as an ion exchange or size exclusion device. The separated blood component, e.g.

Abstract: An eyelid speculum is disclosed in the form of an annular bladder constructed of a resilient material. The annular bladder defines an interior chamber and the bladder is dimensioned to fit in between the upper and lower eyelids of an eye. An inflator is fluidly connected to the bladder chamber to selectively inflate the bladder. Thus, with the bladder positioned in between the upper and lower eyelid and then inflated, the bladder maintains the eyelids in an open position thus exposing the eye and maintaining a stable eye position for medical examination and/or treatment.