Abstract: A technique for sample analysis includes capturing an image of an analysis location of a sample disposed within a sample chamber using an imaging device having a field of view into the sample chamber along an axis. Subsequent to capturing the image, a material removal beam is directed along the axis the sample to desorb or ablate sample material from the sample at the analysis location. An ionization beam is then applied to the sample material to generate ionized sample material and the ionized sample material is delivered to a mass spectrometer for analysis. Each of organic and inorganic analysis may be conducted at a given analysis location by desorbing and analyzing organic material and subsequently ablating and analyzing inorganic material, the desorption and ablation processes performed using beams delivered along the same axis as the imaging device's field of view.

Abstract: A locking catheter system including a flexible catheter having a restraining portion such as a pigtail, malecot rib or J-curve at its distal end and a flexible filament extending therefrom to attaching means at the other end of the catheter. The attaching means comprise a compressible suture-sealing bushing through which the flexible filament is passed and locked in place.

Abstract: A locking catheter system including a flexible catheter having a restraining portion such as a pigtail, malecot rib or J-curve at its distal end and a flexible filament extending therefrom to attaching means at the other end of the catheter. The attaching means comprise a self-sealing sleeve through which the filament passes and an elastomeric sheath which encapsulates the sleeve to restrain the filament.

Abstract: A method for extruding silicone tubing which maintains consistently precise dimensions in the final tubing product by continuously monitoring the tubing profile after cooling and adjusting the height the loop of uncured tubing as necessary to neck the tubing down to the desired size.