Abstract: A tool for forming a composite structure may include two or more segments formed from a polymer material. The tool may further include a crush insert disposed between the two or more segments. The tool may also include a support shaft coupled between the two or more segments. A method of forming a mandrel may include forming segments of the mandrel through an additive manufacturing process. The method may further include assembling the segments relative to one another. The method may also include positioning a crush insert between each of the segments. A method of fabricating a composite structure is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for the shipment and preservation of organ-derived cells in which the shipping medium is in a firm, substantially congealed state at ambient and chilled temperatures, but becomes substantially fluid upon reaching body temperature. The medium in its fluid state can be poured over cultured cells or tissue slices or used to suspend isolated cells and then can be chilled to reach its congealed state for shipment.

Abstract: A medium for the shipment and preservation of organ-derived cells and method for its use. The shipping medium is in a firm, substantially semi-solid state at ambient and chilled temperatures, but becomes substantially fluid upon reaching body temperature. The medium in its fluid state can be poured over cultured cells or tissue slices or used to suspend isolated cells and then can be chilled to reach its semi-solid state for shipment. The firm, semi-solid nature of the medium and the presence of various components preserves organ-derived cells for a longer period of time during shipping than the preservation time achieved by using conventional liquid medium, better protects the organ-derived cells during shipment, effectively eliminates spillage during transport, and is easily used by researchers who supply preserved organ-derived cells as well as by researchers who receive the preserved organ-derived cells for experimentation or research.

Abstract: A permeation testing apparatus for determining the permeation of a chemical through a test material. The testing apparatus includes a permeation cell comprising two units, each constructed of a block of relatively chemically inert material which may be placed in intimate contact. One face of each said block has a shallow cylindrical well, that is referred to as the "challenge side". The opposite face of the block has a conical well that is referred to as the "collection side". Two such blocks, or permeation units, are positioned face-to-face ("challenge side" to "collection side") and constitute one permeation cell. The material to be tested is positioned between two permeation units thereby separating the "challenge side" from the "collection side". Four ports are provided perpendicular to the axes of the permeation cell; i.e., an inlet and an exit port for each of the two permeation units. Several permeation units may be stacked, with each interface providing a permeation cell.