Abstract: An optical fiber coupler apparatus for coupling ends of a first and second optical fiber of a substantially equal diameter includes: three cylindrical rods whose longitudinal axes are substantially parallel and in a triangular arrangement, a pressing mechanism, and an urging mechanism. The pressing mechanism presses the rods together, forming a central space that is substantially parallel to the axes, such that an end of the first optical fiber that is inserted into one end of the central space is held substantially collinearly with an end of the second optical fiber that is inserted into an opposite end of the central space. The urging mechanism urges the inserted end of the first optical fiber against the inserted end of the second optical fiber.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an ultrasound system for the production of an acoustic wave pressure on a desired organ. The present invention further concerns a method for closing a liquid containing vessel, such as a blood vessel, by applying a first pulse of acoustic pressure for emptying the vessel of liquid, and than applying a second pulse for adhering the walls of the vessel to each other.

Abstract: A compound of the general formula:A-L.sup.+ D.sup.-where A is a moiety which absorbs radiation and enters an excited state in which it accepts an electron; D.sup.- is a moiety which donates an electron to the excited state A and releases a free radical; and L.sup.+ is a cationic linking group which tethers electron acceptor moiety A to electron donor moiety D.sup.-. Cationic linking moiety L.sup.+ has the formula:-L'-G-where L' is a moiety which forms a stable radical with acceptor moiety A upon transfer of an electron from donor moiety D.sup.- to electron acceptor moiety A, and G is a moiety which forms a leaving group upon transfer of the electron from donor moiety D.sup.- to acceptor moiety A.