Abstract: A core collector is shaped as a crescent in cross-section and has lateral sides formed into axially extending rows of axially spaced teeth. The arc angle of the crescent shape is sufficient to keep the core collector radially centered in a cannula by having the crescent's lateral sides bear against the inside of the cannula. The set of a core collector and cannula can be used in a known biopsy system to replace the known cannula and core collector of can be used in a new core biopsy instrument.

Abstract: A core biopsy instrument for taking samples of tissue such as prostate tissue comprises a handle configured to releasably receive a cartridge that holds a core collector. In use, after loading a cartridge in the handle, a spring drives the core collector into target tissue and shortly thereafter, in less than a second, a spring drives a cannula over the core collector to cut tissue in a trough thereof from surrounding tissue. The core collector is withdrawn proximally to its initial position in the cartridge and the cartridge is removed from the handle. The cartridge, with the core collector and the tissue sample therein is treated as needed for sending as a unit to a laboratory, thus preserving the orientation and completeness of the tissue sample therein.

Abstract: A universal hinged tread system includes a folding stair set with one or more primary treads. At least one auxiliary tread is hingedly attached atop at least one primary tread. The folding stair set includes at least two hingedly attached sections. The hingedly attached sections fold flat against each other when in a stowed position, and every other folding stair section is inverted when in the stowed position. Each auxiliary tread is angularly displaced from its primary tread as its folding stair section is inverted. The auxiliary treads do not obstruct any primary treads on other sections when in a stowed position. The auxiliary treads include a beveled lower front edge to aid the auxiliary treads in deflecting.

Abstract: A medical device introduction system and method can include a medical introducer, a separate imaging device, and/or a separate working channel device, each of which may be movable independent of the other. The medical introducer can include a handle and an elongate introducer tube extending from the handle and having a plurality of lumens, and may be inserted into an interior body region of a patient. The separate imaging device may be inserted through the handle and positioned in one of lumens. The separate working channel device can include an elongate working channel tube and a position controller. The working channel tube can include at least one lumen defining a working channel. The position controller can be configured to control positioning of the working channel tube. The working channel device may be removably connected to the handle and positioned in another lumen.

Abstract: A threshold for installation atop a sub-sill of a building wall frame comprises a sill frame and a sealing fin including an upwardly extending upper panel substantially covering the entire forward edge of the sill frame. The sealing fin reduces moisture penetration and provides an attractive finished appearance.

Abstract: A universal hinged tread system includes a folding stair set with one or more primary treads. At least one auxiliary tread is hingedly attached atop at least one primary tread. The folding stair set includes at least two hingedly attached sections. The hingedly attached sections fold flat against each other when in a stowed position, and every other folding stair section is inverted when in the stowed position. Each auxiliary tread is angularly displaced from its primary tread as its folding stair section is inverted. The auxiliary treads do not obstruct any primary treads on other sections when in a stowed position. The auxiliary treads include a beveled lower front edge to aid the auxiliary treads in deflecting.