Abstract: A container (2) receives anhydrous material to be hydrated and hydrating fluids. The hydrating fluids are introduced into the container through a fluid port (8) by one or more containers having hydrating fluid. The hydrating fluids may be a mixture of fluids provided in any desired proportion. The hydrated material is then ejected from the container.

Abstract: A centrifuge has a rotor for receiving a disposable processing unit. The centrifuge is configured such that the motor is attached to an enclosure and the enclosure is supported on a base. The connection between the base and the enclosure is a vibration isolator, and the isolator is positioned such that its effective line of action aligns with the effective plane of rotation of the rotor. In accordance with another feature of the invention, the processing units are held in a decanting position by a decant ring that moves vertically but does not rotate. The ring engages the top of the processing unit during decant and the abrasion is minimal.

Abstract: A method for the preparation of an autologous tissue graft composition is disclosed. Bone marrow is harvested from the patient. In one embodiment, the nucleated cells of the bone marrow are subsequently concentrated. Autologous thrombin is purified from a volume of whole blood also taken from the patient. The bone marrow aspirate or bone marrow concentrate is then combined with the purified autologous thrombin to form a coagulated tissue graft material that may be used alone or in conjunction with other graft materials.

Abstract: A floating element for separating components of a physiological fluid comprises two parts that are relatively movable. The two parts define a prescribed volume between them when at their maximum separation, and one of the parts may be moved toward the other to express the fluid contained in the volume between the parts. The parts are made of materials having densities so that they assume a desired position in the fluid to allow selected components to be easily obtained are expressed.

Abstract: A separator disk for use in centrifugal separation of components is designed to automatically position itself during separation at the interface between the supernatant and the remaining components. Preferably the interface is between plasma and red blood cells.

Abstract: A container designed for use as a disposable processing unit in a centrifuge includes first and second chambers connected by a bridge that allows transfer of fluid between the chambers. One of the chambers has a sloped floor that directs fluids to a smaller bottom portion for providing greater depth in the collected fluids. The container also includes cam surfaces that facilitate insertion of the container in a centrifuge in the desired orientation. As well, a key may be provided to ensure that the container is used in the correct centrifuge.

Abstract: A breakaway coupling for a support structure having a first post and a second post, where the breakaway coupling has a first plate coupled to the first post, a second plate coupled to the second post and breakably coupled to the first plate, and a bearing positioned between the first plate and the second plate having a bearing member located in an opening of the bearing housing and contacting at least one of the first and second plates.

Abstract: A signpost assembly includes a spring-loaded connector designed for connecting a signpost to an anchor member, the signpost being designed to shear off when struck forcefully. The signpost has at least one opening. The connector has a bracket with at least a first support side defining an opening and a second support side, and a base connecting the support sides. The connector also has at least one pin which is spring biased. The pin has an alignment knob at one end. The spring biases the pin between a first compressed position and a second expanded position. The opening in the support side allows the alignment knob to protrude through. The assembled connector is held in place by the spring's tension against the spring side of the stop flanges.