Abstract: Nanovectors are disclosed that make it possible to simultaneously target, image, and treat cancerous cells using photodynamic therapy. Also disclosed are novel molecules (I) derived from porphyrins, silica-based nanoparticles comprising the same, and their use in photodynamic therapy.

Abstract: In order to spread optical fibers emerging from an end of cable and to firmly attach the cable end with ends of protective jackets in which the spread fibers are strung, the following steps are performed by means a spreading device including mainly a grooved hollow distributor. The distributor is fastened to a sawn off end of a grooved elongated ring in the cable by pinching a central armature emerging from the cable, by jaws housed in the distributor. A split ring is strung around a grooved revolution portion of the distributor. For each fiber, a longitudinal slot of the split ring and a respective groove of the revolution portion are superposed, the end of the jacket of the fiber is entered into the groove through the slot, and the jacket is forced into the groove by partially rotating the split ring so as to superpose the slot and another distributor groove.

Abstract: Two optical fibers are connected by a device including a base member having a central groove for aligning and abutting the fiber ends. To connect the fibers quickly without having to dismantle any device members, the device comprises a one piece bent spring fastener having a U-shaped cross-section. Natural flexion of a flexible arm of the spring fastener presses the fiber ends into the groove in the immediate vicinity of a fiber endface connection plane. The other arm is anchored to the base member. To connect the fibers, a tool deflects the flexible arm away from the base member and the fiber ends are slide into the groove. The device is in a very slim-like housing and several can be stacked to create a multifiber connecting rack.