Abstract: An apparatus for the transfer of one or more substances between a gas and a liquid, for example between an oxygen-containing gas and blood, is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of concentric vessels which define a flow path for the liquid, and which includes along a portion of the path an annular heat exchange chamber having a first end at which the liquid is introduced into the chamber and a second end at which the liquid is conducted from the chamber. A heat exchanger is supported in the heat exchange chamber for conducting a heat exchange fluid in heat exchange relationship with the liquid as the liquid flows through the chamber. Gas in the form of bubbles is introduced into the liquid as the liquid is conducted along the flow path to thereby effect transfer of substances between the gas and the liquid, the gas being introduced upstream of the first end of the heat exchange chamber.

Abstract: A coupling device for joining together two fluid conduits and for providing fluid access to fluid in the fluid conduits. The device comprises a first coupling member which is adapted to be connected to one of the fluid conduits and a second coupling member adapted to be connected to the other fluid conduit. The first and second coupling members are adapted to be connected together to define an axial fluid passage therethrough between the two fluid conduits. An elastic member having an axial fluid opening therethrough is interposed between the first and second coupling members and the axial fluid opening thereof is axially aligned with the axial fluid passage defined by the first and second coupling members. Connecting means are also provided for connecting the first and second coupling members together to compress the elastic member between the first and second coupling members to seal the axial fluid passage.