Abstract: Apparatuses and methods designed to allow for on-site, on-demand measurement of rheological properties of a sample are disclosed. The apparatuses and methods utilize both a visual component (e.g., a camera) to obtain information about the sample for making such rheological property determinations and an integrated electrical circuit to apply a current to the sample for also making such rheological property determinations. The application of the current is done in a manner such that a thinning behavior of the sample is unaffected. Further, the apparatuses are configured in a manner that allow them to be portable so that samples can be analyzed shortly after they are received, at a point-of-use. Various configurations and methods associated with such apparatuses are also disclosed.

Abstract: Ventricular catheters and their methods of use are disclosed. In some embodiments, the disclosed ventricular catheters may reduce, or substantially prevent, obstruction of the catheter by astrocytes or other brain tissue due to adhesion and/or growth within the catheter. For example, in some embodiments, the holes and internal lumen of a ventricular catheter may be constructed such that the wall shear stresses applied within the holes and internal lumen of the catheter are greater than a threshold shear stress to prevent cell adhesion and growth within the catheter.

Abstract: Respiratory System Similation Systems that mimic human or other animal exhalation events are disclosed. Exhalation events that can be reproduced include coughing, sneezing, breathing, talking, gagging, panting, and singing. Air flow and airway systems cooperate to eject a gas cloud comprising the at least some air produced from the air flow system and one or more of a plurality of droplets, solid residues, or aerosols. The exhalation emission systems can be used in testing emissions in various environments, medical, and protective equipment usage situations. Methods related to the same are also disclosed.