Abstract: An analyte sensing system (210) includes a sensor assembly (216) and a sensor (214). The sensor assembly (216) includes an energy source (228) that generates energy. The sensor (214) includes (i) an energy guide (218) that receives the energy from the energy source (228), (ii) a sheath (220) coupled to the energy guide (218) near a guide distal end (218D), the sheath (220) being substantially cylindrical-shaped to define at least a portion of a reaction chamber (222) therewithin that extends distally away from the guide distal end (218D), the sheath (220) being oxygen permeable and analyte impermeable, (iii) a sensing polymer (224) positioned near the guide distal end (218D) of the energy guide (218), the energy guide (218) guiding the energy from the energy source (228) toward the sensing polymer (224), the sensing polymer (224) being configured to sense one of oxygen and the analyte, and (iv) a transduction matrix (226) retained substantially within the reaction chamber (222).

Abstract: An analyte sensing system (210) includes a sensor assembly (216) and a sensor (214). The sensor assembly (216) includes an energy source (228) that generates energy. The sensor (214) includes (i) an energy guide (218) that receives the energy from the energy source (228), (ii) a sheath (220) coupled to the energy guide (218) near a guide distal end (218D), the sheath (220) being substantially cylindrical-shaped to define at least a portion of a reaction chamber (222) therewithin that extends distally away from the guide distal end (218D), the sheath (220) being oxygen permeable and analyte impermeable, (iii) a sensing polymer (224) positioned near the guide distal end (218D) of the energy guide (218), the energy guide (218) guiding the energy from the energy source (228) toward the sensing polymer (224), the sensing polymer (224) being configured to sense one of oxygen and the analyte, and (iv) a transduction matrix (226) retained substantially within the reaction chamber (222).

Abstract: A laser-machining system and method is disclosed for forming retainers on a suture thread. The laser system is preferably a femtosecond laser system which is capable of creating submicron features on the suture thread while preserving strength of the suture thread. The laser-machining system enables creation of retainers and self-retaining suture systems in configurations which are difficult and/or impossible to achieve using mechanical cutting technology. The laser-machining system includes a stabilization device configured to provide contactless stabilization of the suture thread during a machining operation on the suture thread.

Abstract: A laser-machining system and method is disclosed for forming retainers on a suture thread. The laser system is preferably a femtosecond laser system which is capable of creating submicron features on the suture thread while preserving strength of the suture thread. The laser-machining system enables creation of retainers and self-retaining suture systems in configurations which are difficult and/or impossible to achieve using mechanical cutting technology.

Abstract: A laser-machining system and method is disclosed for forming retainers on a suture thread. The laser system is preferably a femtosecond laser system which is capable of creating submicron features on the suture thread while preserving strength of the suture thread. The laser-machining system enables creation of retainers and self-retaining suture systems in configurations which are difficult and/or impossible to achieve using mechanical cutting technology.