Abstract: Macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies, and chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the devices may be used for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in an efficient, compact and safe to the operator manner. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated, multi-run, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as PET probes, comprising a remote shielded mini-cell containing radiation-handing components.

Abstract: Macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies, and chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the devices may be used for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in an efficient, compact and safe to the operator manner. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated, multi-run, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as PET probes, comprising a remote shielded mini-cell containing radiation-handing components.

Abstract: An assembly for collecting blood or other body fluids is provided. The assembly includes an elongate tube having an open end and a closed end. The open end includes threads. An internally threaded plastic cap is mounted to the open end of the tube. The cap includes an axial passage and a resealable member aligned with the axial passage. A gas-impermeable member is bonded to the resealable member and the open end of the tube. Both the resealable member and gas-impermeable member are pierceable by a needle. The cap is removable with the resealable member and the gas-impermeable member as a unit due to the fact that the bond between the gas-impermeable member and the tube is weaker than that between the gas-impermeable member and the resealable member. The cap includes a deflectable portion near its top end to engage the walls of a tube holder, and to function as a shock absorber if the tube is dropped.

Abstract: An electric oscillating tool, having particular but not necessarily exclusive utility as an electric toothbrush, for driving a brush head assembly or end effector with a resonant mechanism at high frequencies. The electric toothbrush includes handle housing, an electromagnetic motor mounted in the housing, and a mechanical oscillator acted upon by the motor. One end of the mechanical oscillator extends outwardly through an opening in the handle housing while the other end is attached to the housing inside the chamber. The end effector/brush head assembly attaches to the extending end of the mechanical oscillator. A power source supplies an alternating current drive signal to the motor, in turn causing the armature and the mechanical oscillator to oscillate and drive the brush head assembly.

Abstract: The present invention constitutes a portable nebulizer capable of producing a finely divided aerosol having uniformly sized droplets. The nebulizer includes a source of fluid such as a capillary tube coupled to a fluid reservoir to which a high voltage is applied in order to generate the aerosol by electrical atomization. The nebulizer further includes a piezoelectric crystal and a mechanism for deforming the crystal so as to generate the required voltage. The nebulizer further includes a means for mechanical positive displacement fluid control for controlling the amount of fluid atomized. By using electrical atomization to generate the aerosol and by piezoelectrically generating the voltage required for atomization, a nebulizer is provided which may be of small size so as to be suitable for hand-held operations, yet is capable of producing measured amounts of finely divided aerosols which are substantially monodispersed.