Abstract: A system and a method facilitate the extracorporeal inactivation of pathogens of blood products. The system includes an input peristaltic pump, at least one apheresis device, at least one plasma-treating system, and an output peristaltic pump. The input peristaltic pump, the apheresis device, the plasma-treating system, and the output peristaltic pump are in fluid communication with each other. The plasma-treating system includes at least one primary ultraviolet light (UVL) device, at least one heating device, and at least one cooling device. The input peristaltic pump facilitates the flow of blood from a patient through the system. The apheresis device facilitates separating of plasma from one or more blood cells. The plasma-treating system heats the plasma, inactivates pathogens within the plasma, and then cools the plasma. The output peristaltic pump facilitates the flow of blood from the system and back to the patient.

Abstract: A system and a method facilitate the extracorporeal inactivation of pathogens of blood products. The system includes an input peristaltic pump, at least one apheresis device, at least one plasma-treating system, and an output peristaltic pump. The input peristaltic pump, the apheresis device, the plasma-treating system, and the output peristaltic pump are in fluid communication with each other. The plasma-treating system includes at least one primary ultraviolet light (UVL) device, at least one heating device, and at least one cooling device. The input peristaltic pump facilitates the flow of blood from a patient through the system. The apheresis device facilitates separating of plasma from one or more blood cells. The plasma-treating system heats the plasma, inactivates pathogens within the plasma, and then cools the plasma. The output peristaltic pump facilitates the flow of blood from the system and back to the patient.

Abstract: A system and method of automatically preparing and analyzing urine samples for identifying cancer cells is able to complete conventional diagnostic tasks without lab technicians, cytopathologists, or other medical professionals. The method is provided with at least one source sample, at least one manipulator arm, at least one centrifuge, at least one electronic microscope, and at least one unitary controller. The method is further provided with a cytopathological index containing a visual characteristic database and identification confidence threshold rubrics supporting the automation of visual analyses typically performed manually with a conventional microscope. This method is further provided with a data processing function, wherein data stemming from multiple testing cycles may be collated, formatted, and presented for use by medical professionals in determining and projecting the effectiveness of a course of treatment.

Abstract: Hemodialysis systems and methods with streamlined blood flow paths are provided. Such streamlined blood flow paths facilitate flow without undue damage to circulating cells.

Abstract: A method of reducing cell damage can include inserting device into a blood vessel, wherein the device includes a hollow shaft, a lumen, a fluid directing portion comprising a U-shaped lateral orifice extending between the exterior and interior surfaces and a corresponding U-shaped diverter adjacent to the U-shaped lateral orifice, wherein the diverter is disposed within the lumen and transverse to the central axis, and decreasing free plasma hemoglobin levels, thereby reducing damage to circulating blood cells or endothelium during dialysis.

Abstract: A needle can include a fluid directing portion comprising a U-shaped lateral orifice extending between the exterior and interior surfaces and a corresponding U-shaped diverter adjacent to the U-shaped lateral orifice. A diverter can be disposed within a lumen of a needle and transverse to a central axis within the lumen.

Abstract: A vascular graft prosthesis includes a tubular conduit for subcutaneous implantation. The tubular conduit has a first end for attachment to a vein, a second end for attachment to an artery, and an enlarged portion between the first and second ends. The enlarged portion has a diameter greater than the diameter of a remaining portion of said tubular conduit. The enlarged portion is positioned proximate the first end and spaced from the first end a distance substantially equivalent to a length of the enlarged portion.

Abstract: A dialysis needle using lateral openings and diverters. The diverters increase the blood flow through the lateral openings in venous needles.