Abstract: A steerable stylet assembly includes a tubular member defining a passage, the tubular member defining a first bend enhancing region. At least one further bend enhancing region is arranged intermediate the first bend enhancing region and a distal end of the tubular member. A first actuator is received in the passage of the tubular member, a distal end of the first actuator being fast with the tubular member at a first termination so that relative axial movement between the tubular member and the first actuator causes deflection at the first enhancing region. A second actuator is received in the passage of the tubular member, a distal end of the second actuator being fast with the tubular member at a second termination so that relative axial movement between the tubular member and the second actuator causes the distal part of the tubular member to be formed into a desired shape. The assembly includes a control mechanism to control relative axial movement between the tubular member and each of the actuators.

Abstract: A steerable stylet assembly (10) includes a tubular member (12) defining a passage (14), the tubular member (12) defining a first bend enhancing (16). At least one further bend enhancing region (20) is arranged intermediate the first bend enhancing region (16) and the distal end (18) of the tubular member (12). A first actuator (26) is received in the passage (14) of the tubular member (12), a distal end of the first actuator (26) being fast with the tubular member (12) at a first termination (30) so that relative axial movement between the tubular member (12) and the first actuator (26) causes deflection at the first enhancing region (16). A second actuator (24) is received in the passage (14) of the tubular member (12), a distal end of the second actuator (24) being fast with the tubular member (12) at a second termination so that relative axial movement between the tubular member (12) and the second actuator (24) causes the distal part of the tubular member (12) to be formed into a desired shape.

Abstract: An electrophoresis membrane support comprising a substantially planar member having four boundaries. an upper face and a lower face; an inlet port disposed near one boundary; an outlet port disposed opposite the inlet port near an opposite boundary; spacers positioned between the inlet port and outlet port adapted to support a membrane positioned on the upper face or on the lower face of the member; interstitial space disposed between the spacers capable of allowing flow of fluid therein; inlet means in fluid communication with the inlet port and the interstitial space; outlet in fluid communication with the interstitial space and the inlet port, the inlet and outlet means adapted to allow flow of fluid along the interstitial space; first flow port disposed near one boundary; and second flow port disposed opposite the first flow port near an opposite boundary, the first and second flow ports direct flow of fluid to or from the electrophoresis apparatus.