Abstract: A flexure assembly includes a first spiral flexure, a second spiral flexure, and a spacing element. The spacing element is positioned between the first spiral flexure and the second spiral flexure. The flexure assembly also includes a plurality of fasteners that collectively extend circumferentially around an axis defined by the flexure assembly. Each of the plurality of fasteners extends through the first spiral flexure and the second spiral flexure.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for isolating and amplifying a subject's mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA). The method comprises the steps of: isolating cell free deoxyribonucleic acid (cf-DNA) from a plasma sample obtained from the subject; and amplifying the mtDNA within the isolated cfDNA using a polymerase chain reaction with a first primer pair and a second primer pair. The first primer is selected from SEQ ID NO: 1 and SEQ ID NO: 2 and the second primer pair is selected from SEQ ID NO: 3 and SEQ ID NO: 4.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for isolating and amplifying a subject's mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA). The method comprises the steps of: isolating cell free deoxyribonucleic acid (cf-DNA) from a plasma sample obtained from the subject; and amplifying the mtDNA within the isolated cfDNA using a polymerase chain reaction with a first primer pair and a second primer pair. The first primer is selected from SEQ ID NO: 1 and SEQ ID NO: 2 and the second primer pair is selected from SEQ ID NO: 3 and SEQ ID NO: 4.

Abstract: A surgical system includes a first instrument defining a first channel and a second instrument receivable by the first channel. The second instrument defines a second channel. A valve coupled to the first instrument controls fluid flow through the first channel, such that impedance of fluid flow through the first channel is substantially the same without the second instrument received in the first channel and with the first channel partially blocked by the second instrument. In another aspect, a surgical apparatus includes an outer member and an inner member received within the outer member to define a first channel therebetween. The inner member houses an optical lens and defines a second channel for receiving a surgical instrument. The first and second channels are configured such that a pump having an inflow rate of up to about 0.7 L/min connected to the second channel can maintain fluid pressure inside an organ.