Abstract: Apparatus and related methods generally relate to a lumen-fitted dilator (LFD). In an illustrative example, the LFD may have an exterior surface configured to slidingly interface with a catheter (e.g., a guide extension catheter (GEC)) such that a fitted transition is formed between the exterior surface of the LFD and a distal mouth of a lumen of the catheter. The LFD may, for example, have adaptive geometries configured to interface with multiple GECs. The LFD may, for example, have dedicated geometries configured to interface with a special-purpose GEC, such as a dilator-fitted GEC (DFGEC). Various embodiments may advantageously reduce or eliminate fishmouthing between a dilator and GEC (e.g., 5-7 French), which may, for example, advantageously enhance passage and/or reduce ‘snagging’ of a catheter such as during vascular procedures (e.g., peripheral vascular procedures and/or coronary artery intervention).

Abstract: An assay for a metalloprotease comprises (i) combining a test compound with a substrate, wherein the protease reacts with the substrate to form a product; and (ii) detecting presence of the metalloprotease by measuring the mass of the product.

Abstract: A tool holder (32) includes a rotary portion (36) securable in a spindle (20) of a machining center (10). A pumped flow of primary coolant (16) is delivered through spindle (20) and rotary portion (36). A pumped flow of secondary coolant (22) is delivered to a static connection (26) and through the static portion (34) of the tool holder. A tool guard assembly (42) secured to static portion (34) surrounds an installed superabrasive grinding wheel (66). It also includes flow paths (50, 52, 98; 62, 68, 82 84) and nozzles (70, 80, 86, 94) to direct coolant to pre-established directions. The tool may be installed automatically in a multipurpose machining center with no additional set up time required.