Abstract: An electrocardiogram (ECG) electrode patch (10) system (50) for use in a magnetic resonance (MR) environment includes a flexible patch material (12) configured for attachment to human skin, and a plurality of electrodes (20). The electrodes (20) Care attached to the patch material (12) and configured to sense a plurality of ECG signals with different amplitudes across pairs of electrodes in at least two different directions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for navigating an instrument relative to a subject. A reference device can be associated with the subject. The reference device can be moved while maintaining or allowing registration with an image space.

Abstract: A method, system, and program product are provided for user-steered, on-the fly path planning in an image-guided endoscopic procedure, comprising: presenting, on a display, a 2D sectional image showing a region of interest from a preoperative CT scan; defining a control point on the 2D sectional image within a patient's body lumen responsive to a first user input; centering the control point; adjusting a viewing angle about the control point to show a longitudinal section of the body lumen responsive to a second user input; identifying a second point on a planned path within the body lumen responsive to a third user input; extending a planned path connecting the control point and the second point; redefining the second point as a new control point; and repeating the presenting adjusting, identifying, extending, and the redefining steps until the planned path reaches a procedure starting point within the patient's body.

Abstract: Implementations described herein include surgical distraction devices having a distal movement assembly having a pusher plate comprising a first slot extending along a first axis disposed in a first side and a second slot extending along a second axis disposed in a second side thereof. The first axis is oriented at an angle of from about 60 to about 160 degrees from the second axis. The device further includes a first and second paddles, each paddle having a corresponding engagement mechanism for movably coupling the respective first or second paddle to the pusher plate when engaged in the respective slot. Rotational actuation of the proximal drive assembly causes proximal or distal movement of the pusher plate, causing the first and second engagement members to move relative to their respective slots, thereby moving the first paddle and the second paddle in opposing directions. Methods of using such surgical distraction devices to determine size of an intervertebral space are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fall detection method and system. The fall detection method comprises: receiving, by a first receiving antenna, a first WiFi signal stream propagating through an environment; receiving, by a second receiving antenna, a second WiFi signal stream propagating through the environment; determining a physical layer Channel State Information (CSI) stream, namely, a first CSI stream, of the first WiFi signal stream; determining a physical layer CSI stream, namely, a second CSI stream, of the second WiFi signal; determining a phase difference, namely, a CSI phase difference, between respective phase of the physical layer CSI stream of the first WiFi signal stream and the physical layer CSI stream of the second WiFi signal stream at the same time point, to form a CSI phase difference stream; and determining, according to the CSI streams and the CSI phase difference stream, a fall event.

Abstract: Method and instrument for analysing a tissue sample. Localized concentrations of an analyte are measured at a plurality of spaced apart locations around a controlled depth. Spatial variance of the analyte is calculated based on the measured analyte concentrations. The procedure is repeated while varying the controlled depth to obtain the spatial variance as a function of depth. Tissue at a particular depth may be evaluated as tumour tissue when the spatial variance is below the threshold. For example, a section distance is calculated between the tissue surface and a depth where the measured spatial variance crosses a predetermined threshold variance. Feedback can be provided based on a comparison between a calculated section distance and a pre-set minimum section margin.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a hypersaturation index for measuring a patient's absorption of oxygen in the blood stream after a patient has reached 100% oxygen saturation. This hypersaturation index provides an indication of the partial pressure of oxygen of a patient. In an embodiment of the present invention, a hypersaturation index is calculated based on the absorption ratio of two different wavelengths of energy at a measuring site. In an embodiment of the invention, a maximum hypersaturation index threshold is determined such that an alarm is triggered when the hypersaturation index reaches or exceeds the threshold. In another embodiment, an alarm is triggered when the hypersaturation index reaches or falls below its starting point when it was first calculated.

Abstract: In a device, system and method for determining the concentration of a substance, such as the oxygen saturation in the blood of a subject, the influence of specular reflection is reduced or removed. An input unit is configured to receive detection signals reflected back from a skin area of the subject in response to irradiation of the skin area by a radiation signal. A signal extraction unit is configured to extract at least two photo-plethysmography, PPG, signals at two different wavelengths from the detection signals. A processing unit is configured to compute the concentration of a selected substance in the blood of the subject based on the PPG signals taking into account a skin tone of the subject.

Abstract: A blood sampling device is provided having holder with a manipulating end and an absorbent probe on the opposing end. The probe is of hydrophilic polymer sized to directly absorb a predetermined volume of up to about 30 microliters of blood. Ribs on the holder position the probe within a compartment of a container to prevent contact with the container. The ribs also position the probe within extraction wells.

Abstract: An independent blood filter device depends on flow geometry to deliver blood serum or plasma free of detrimental levels of hemoglobin. It depends critically on an upstream flow rate or pressure differential limiting control element or device that limits the rate of change of pressure differential across the filter element. Pre-evacuated versions can be used to simultaneously draw blood from a living being and provide pressure differential across the filter element between an evacuated collector and a supply end open to atmosphere. A unit pressurized by hand motion employs the external shape of a partially filled blood collection tube as a piston to produce pressure in advance of the control element or device to create the pressure differential across the filter element to a collector vented to atmosphere. The control element or device is disclosed in numerous forms, including specially sized flow constrictions and compliant arrangements.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating notifications based on bladder volume signals and bladder muscle signals are disclosed. A system includes a processor, a plurality of bladder electrical signal application electrodes, a plurality of bladder volume measurement electrodes, a plurality of bladder muscle measurement electrodes, a memory module communicatively coupled to the processor, and machine readable instructions stored in the memory module. When executed by the processor, the machine readable instructions cause the system to output a first electrical output signal with the plurality of bladder electrical signal application electrodes, receive the bladder volume signal at the plurality of bladder volume measurement electrodes in response to the first electrical output signal, receive the bladder muscle signal at the plurality of bladder muscle measurement electrodes, and generate the notification based on the bladder volume signal and the bladder muscle signal.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for the analysis of skin surfaces to determine the presence of neoplastic tissue. In the methods of the invention, a composition comprising a florescent probe that binds to a specific neoplasia associated marker is applied topically to the area of interest. After topical administration, the probe preferentially binds to markers associated in neoplastic lesions in situ, which binding is detected with a compact illumination unit that provides illumination at a wavelength appropriate for image acquisition. The illumination unit comprises a light source and fiber optic bundle to direct the light towards the area of examination. A detection unit is used to capture and record an image of the area of investigation. The detection unit may be a digital camera, film camera, etc. A mapping module may also be provided to catalogue the site of examination.

Abstract: Systems and methods facilitate segmenting a dermoscopy image of a lesion to facilitate classification of the lesion. A dermoscopy image is received from an image source; pre-processed; and segmented. Segmenting the pre-processed dermoscopy image includes applying a thresholding algorithm to the dermoscopy image. The thresholding algorithm includes at least one of a Huang auto-thresholding algorithm, a Li auto-thresholding algorithm, a Shanbhag auto-thresholding algorithm, an Otsu auto-thresholding algorithm, or an Isodata thresholding algorithm. A weighted border error metric is provided to allow prediction of whether segmentation is likely to avoid excluding portions of the lesion. A test is provided for determination of whether image inversion is needed for the methods to provide optimal borders. An iterative expansion algorithm is provided to for determine whether expansion is needed for the methods to provide optimal borders and to determine the degree of expansion needed for more inclusive segmentation.

Abstract: A prosthesis for implantation into a mammalian body, the device comprising: (a) a prosthesis for implantation into a mammalian body that includes a sensor array comprising a plurality of sensors mounted to the prosthesis; and (b) an electronics structure for receiving signals from the sensor array and wirelessly transmitting representative signals to a remote receiver, where the plurality of sensors are operative to sense pressure, applied to the prosthesis by another object, in at least two axes generally perpendicular to one another.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided, including a sensor, adapted to generate a sensor signal indicative of biorhythmic activity of a user of the apparatus, the sensor signal having a first characteristic, indicative of a voluntary action of the user, and a second characteristic, indicative of a benefit-related variable of the user. The apparatus also includes a control unit, adapted to receive the sensor signal, and, responsive to the second characteristics generate an output signal which directs the user to modify a parameter of the voluntary action indicated by the first characteristic.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and system for photoacoustic imaging for guiding medical procedures. A transducer is placed near the site of the procedure. The optical fiber, coupled to an electromagnetic source, such as a laser, is attached to a medical device. During the procedure, the device and optical fiber are inserted into the procedure site where the optical fiber illuminates the procedure site, which has a thickness of approximately 2 mm. Photoacoustic images are acquired to visualize the procedure site as the procedure is proceeding in order to provide real-time guidance. This system is applicable to multiple surgical and interventional procedures, such as transsphenoidal surgery.

Abstract: A chain segment having wires that connect various electrical devices and connectors together. The wires are arranged in a pattern to facilitate strain relief. The wires, electrical devices, and connectors are encased in an injection molded material, and they are preferably coupled with a flexible material such as a fabric that can be stitched into a garment. The chain segment facilitates collection of movement data when stitched into an article of clothing. A method of manufacturing the chain segment that is modular to enable different configurations and different lengths of chains.

Abstract: An intelligent wearable outfit, and an external information platform and a computer program product which are in conjunction with the intelligent wearable outfit, provide various functional modules for measuring physiological signals in a modular design. An appropriate functional module (or even more than one functional module if desired) may be selected therefrom and arranged in the wearable outfit to extend and change functions of the wearable outfit, making the intelligent wearable outfit suitable for most users who can manage personal health appropriately.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for a non-rigid wearable device comprising electrical circuitry and a support structure supporting the electrical circuitry. The support structure having rigid sections that rigidly support components of the electrical circuitry to protect components and/or solder joints from stress due to deflection and having non-rigid or flexible sections where there are no solder connections present on the electrical circuitry and/or where there are interconnecting traces present on the electrical circuitry that can tolerate stress due to deflection.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring a sleep parameter of a user includes an adhesive pad configured to conform to a surface of the user and a flexible element coupled to the adhesive pad. The flexible element includes a conductive fabric, and exhibits a modified electrical property in response to an applied force. The apparatus also includes a power source electrically coupled to the flexible element, and an electrical circuit electrically coupled to the power source and the flexible conductive element. The electrical circuit is configured to detect, during use, a change in an electrical property of the flexible element.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring a sleep parameter of a user includes an adhesive pad configured to conform to a surface of the user and a flexible element coupled to the adhesive pad. The flexible element includes a conductive fabric, and exhibits a modified electrical property in response to an applied force. The apparatus also includes a power source electrically coupled to the flexible element, and an electrical circuit electrically coupled to the power source and the flexible conductive element. The electrical circuit is configured to detect, during use, a change in an electrical property of the flexible element.

Abstract: A connector for connecting a pressure sensing catheter to charger is provided. The connector can include a first engagement portion engageable with a charger engagement portion of the charger to displace a pressure transmission medium in the charger engagement portion to charge one or more balloons of the pressure sensing catheter. The connector can have a handle that includes a tab terminating in an end surface engageable with an engagement surface of the charger when the first engagement portion engages with the charger engagement portion. The connector includes a distal abutment portion that engages with a portion of the charger engagement portion to provide an audible or tactile feedback, so as to prevent inadvertent overcharging of the balloons.

Abstract: Access is provided to certain pulse oximetry systems utilizing a keyed sensor and a corresponding locked sensor port of a restricted access monitor. In such systems, the keyed sensor has a key comprising a memory element, and the monitor has a memory reader associated with the sensor port. The monitor is configured to function only when the key is in communications with the locked sensor port, and the memory reader is able to retrieve predetermined data from the memory element. The monitor is accessed by providing the key separate from the keyed sensor, integrating the key into an adapter cable, and connecting the adapter cable between the sensor port and an unkeyed sensor so that the monitor functions with the unkeyed sensor.

Abstract: A system and method for representing quasi-periodic electrocardiography waveforms, wherein system employs a hybrid-coding scheme combining linear predictive coding techniques based upon Algebraic Code Excited Linear Prediction with a discrete wavelet transforms.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for identification of patients having an elevated near-term risk of chronic kidney disease progression, including quantitatively predicting whether or not an elevated risk of progression of Stage 3 or Stage 4 chronic kidney disease is likely within a time interval of up to 36 months subsequent to computing the prediction. Based on the prediction, appropriate care providers may be notified so that the risk of CKD progression may be mitigated. In some embodiments, serial measurements are obtained of urine osmolality, and a challenge with an AVP V2 antagonist and serum sodium concentration is provided. From a time series based on the serial measurements, estimates of each variable's velocity and/or doubling-time may be determined. These values then may be combined via a multivariable mathematical model for providing a leading indicator of near-term future abnormalities in kidney function.

Abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the growing chronic respiratory diseases and is now a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Acute exacerbations have a negative impact on health related quality of life of COPD patients, survival rates, pulmonary function and utilization of health-care resources. The present application discloses an apparatus (100), system (1400), method (200), and computer program for assessing a risk of an exacerbation and/or hospitalization of a subject. To this extent, time-dependent activity data is Fourier-transformed to frequency space to obtain frequency-dependent activity data. Next, a moment of said frequency-dependent activity data is computed. Finally, a risk of said exacerbation and/or hospitalization of said subject to occur is assessed based on said moment.

Abstract: A system for marking cardiac time intervals from heart valve signals includes a non-invasive sensor unit for capturing electrical signals and composite vibration objects, a memory containing computer instructions, and one or more processors coupled to the memory. The one or more processors causes the one or more processors to perform operations including separating a plurality of individual heart vibration events into heart valve signals from the composite vibration objects, and marking cardiac time interval from the heart valve signals by detecting individual heartbeats and processing cumulative energy within the individual heartbeat to set a threshold to set a marking point.

Abstract: Image display device includes image outputting unit, part moving unit, and matching degree score calculating unit. Image outputting unit outputs, among a plurality of images obtained by performing a multilayered anatomy in a plurality of parts of a human body, an image of one layer of one part as a current image. Part moving unit acquires a part moving instruction after current image is output. Matching degree score calculating unit calculates a matching degree score indicating the matching degree between the organ included in current image and a candidate image by comparing label information indicating the organ included in current image and label information indicating the organ included in candidate image, with respect to each of a plurality of candidate images of a movement target part. Image outputting unit outputs candidate image in which a maximum matching degree score is calculated as a new current image.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for visually depicting a vessel and evaluating treatment options are disclosed. The methods can include obtaining proximal pressure measurements from a proximal pressure sensing component positioned within a vessel of a patient; obtaining distal pressure measurements from multiple pressure sensing components positioned within the vessel of the patient, wherein the multiple pressure sensing components are positioned distal of the proximal pressure sensing component and are spaced along a length of the vessel; and outputting a screen display having a visual representation of the proximal and distal pressure measurements.

Abstract: There is provided a method and apparatus for adjusting a monitoring system which is arranged to receive measured values of a physiological characteristic of a subject and to generate an alarm when the received measured values meet at least one predefined alarm generation criterion.

Abstract: A couch device according to an embodiment includes a couchtop, shape control members, and driving circuitry. The couchtop includes a movable base couchtop and a transformable couchtop mounted above the movable base couchtop and capable of bending a part thereof from a flat shape. The shape control members control the shape of the transformable couchtop. The driving circuitry moves the couchtop to an opening of a gantry device that collects data for taking medical images. The transformable couchtop includes divided couchtops, and transformation support members for fixing the transformable couchtop to the movable base couchtop are fitted to divided sections. Each of the shape control members adjusts a position of a specific transformation support member so that an installation location thereof is a fixed point of the movable base couchtop.

Abstract: Described are apparatus and methods of operation for three dimensional fluence modulation and scatter shielding for dedicated computed tomography (CT). Through the disclosed invention, the number of incident photons on the field of view (FOV) of the imaging system becomes proportional to the path length of the photon through the anatomy of interest. The apparatus is comprises a patient specific x-ray fluence modulation unit and a scatter shield unit. The fluence modulation unit reduces radiation dose differences across the anatomical part and the dynamic range requirements for the x-ray detector. The scatter shield unit is intended for preventing the scattered beams from reaching the x-ray detector. The internal structures of each unit are composed of elements with adjustable positions dependent on the specific shape of the object in the field-of-view (FOV). Method of operation are also provided.

Abstract: A method for image correction in a mobile X-ray device includes obtaining an X-ray image corresponding to a region of interest, where the X-ray image includes a projection of the region of interest by an X-ray beam on a detector plane. The method further includes receiving a tilt parameter corresponding to the detector plane. Moreover, the method includes generating a corrected X-ray image based on the X-ray image and the tilt parameter using a perspective projection technique, where the corrected X-ray image corresponds to a projection of the region of interest on a corrected detector plane.

Abstract: The present technology describes various embodiments of positron emission tomography (PET) systems for use with mammography machines and associated devices and methods. In several embodiments, a PET system includes a tissue platform and one or more PET detection panels removably coupled to the mammography machine. The panels are configured to generally surround the tissue platform and obtain an approximately 360 degree data sample of tissue. The system can further include an output device configured to output the data sample for image reconstruction. In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide high resolution images, quantitative image accuracy, dynamic imaging, and/or biopsy guidance.

Abstract: Disclosed is an X-ray detector having impact resistance and an X-ray imaging apparatus having the X-ray detector. The X-ray imaging apparatus comprises an X-ray source for generating and irradiating X-rays and an X-ray detector for detecting the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source. The X-ray detector comprises a main body having a bottom plate including a joining groove, a detector panel arranged inside the main body for converting X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source into electric signals, and a middle block arranged inside the main body to support the detector panel. The middle block has a boss configured to protrude toward the bottom plate of the main body. The boss is inserted into the joining groove. A buffer member is arranged in at least part of the joining groove to prevent the boss from coming into contact with the joining groove.

Abstract: A detector assembly for a CT system includes a plurality of detector modules, each detector module including a grid of pixelated scintillators, a photodiode having pixelations that correspond with the pixelated scintillators, and an electronics package for processing acquired X-ray data, a support structure extending along a Z-direction of the CT system and having the plurality of detector modules positioned thereon, and a heat sink extending along the Z-direction and having the support structure mounted thereon, the heat sink including a passageway passing therethrough and along the Z-direction, such that cooling air may pass into the passageway at a first end of the heat sink and exit the passageway at a second end of the heat sink opposite the first end.

Abstract: There is provided a radiographic imaging apparatus capable of facilitating a comparative radiological interpretation of symmetric portions or a temporal comparative radiological interpretation of a same imaging target. The radiographic imaging apparatus includes an image control unit configured to cause a display unit configured to display a plurality of divided screens to display a first radiographic image of a first imaging target on a first divided screen of the plurality of divided screens. The image control unit causes a radiographic image of the first imaging target that is captured at a different time from the first radiographic image or a radiographic image of a second imaging target that is a symmetric imaging target of the first imaging target to be displayed on a second divided screen of the plurality of divided screens as a second radiographic image.

Abstract: The present approach relates to the use of a spatially registered detector docking compartment to determine source and detector alignment in a patient imaging context. In certain implementations, sensors and/or cameras provide visual data that may be analyzed to determine a spatial relation between an X-ray source and landmarks provided on a patient support surface, where the landmarks have a known spatial relationship to a detector positioned beneath the patient support surface.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for grading coronary calcium, including an example apparatus that includes a set of logics and a memory that stores a set of radiographic images. The set of logics includes an image acquisition logic that acquires a set of radiographic images of a region of tissue, the set of radiographic images including a low-energy reference x-ray image and a higher-energy floating x-ray image, a registration logic that produces a set of registered images from a plurality of members of the set of radiographic images, an enhancement logic that produces a set of calcium-enhanced images from the set of registered images, a post-enhancement logic that produces a bone image from the set of calcium-enhanced images, and a grading logic that computes a coronary heart disease prediction score based, at least in part, on the bone image and a set of features extracted from the bone image.

Abstract: A display apparatus is provided to display a plurality of different images with different characteristics of an object on a single screen while gradually and mutually converting the color images and an image display method using the same. The display apparatus includes a memory to store a plurality of color images with different characteristics of an object and a display unit to display a second color image while gradually converting a first color image displayed on the display unit into the second color image, the second color image having a different characteristic from that of the first color image.

Abstract: A medical imaging apparatus includes a cardiac lumen region identifying unit, a myocardium identifying unit, and a generating unit. The cardiac lumen region identifying unit is configured to identify a cardiac lumen region from a medical image including a heart region. The myocardium identifying unit is configured to identify a face of a myocardium region obtained by extending a face of the cardiac lumen region, identified by the cardiac lumen region identifying unit, by a certain distance toward a myocardium side. The generating unit is configured to generate a color-coded image in which the face of the myocardium region, identified by the myocardium identifying unit, is colored in colors according to signal values of the medical image corresponding to positions on the face of the myocardium region.

Abstract: An X-ray CT apparatus includes processing circuitry. The circuitry controls a voltage generator during non-helical scan to switch tube voltage, thereby causing an imaging to be performed separately with X-rays of a first energy and X-rays of a second energy. The circuitry generates first and second projection data sets, respectively. The circuitry performs image reconstruction based on the first and second projection data sets respectively, thereby generating first and second images respectively. The circuitry performs alignment processing to align the second image with the first image. The circuitry generates a third projection data set based on a processing result of the alignment processing. The circuitry performs transformation processing to transform the second and third projection data sets into projection data sets corresponding to reference materials.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, acquisition circuitry, a high voltage generator, and processing circuitry. The acquisition circuitry acquires electrical signals from a plurality of X-ray detection elements, and bundles the electrical signals in bundle units in accordance with a resolution mode of the X-ray detector. The processing circuitry determines a resolution mode, an application dose condition, and an X-ray exposure time for target CT imaging. The processing circuitry determines the focus size for the target CT imaging based on the determined resolution mode, application dose condition, and X-ray exposure time.

Abstract: A portable radiation imaging apparatus configured to wirelessly communicate with a radiation generation apparatus includes a radiation image sensor including a two-dimensional arrangement of a plurality of detection elements configured to detect a radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus, a wireless communication unit configured to receive a generation condition of the radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus, a storage unit configured to store the received generation condition and radiation image data obtained by the radiation image sensor in association with each other, and a housing configured to accommodate the radiation image sensor, the wireless communication unit, and the storage unit.

Abstract: A method of presenting a suggested path for an ultrasound probe along a patient's surface includes obtaining a three-dimensional, non-ultrasound image of the patient and an ultrasound image of the patient. A treatment area is defined within the within the three-dimensional, non-ultrasound image, and using the images, defining a scanning site contour of an anatomical structure of interest within the patient and an external contour of the patient's surface. A preferred path of the ultrasound scan is projected onto the external contour such that an operator can reproduce the ultrasound scan without knowledge of the anatomical structure of interest.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to various aspects of imaging systems, including permeable and impermeable barriers separating liquid compartments, one of which contains the object to be imaged and the other an ultrasonic transducer, a fluidic bearing between a transducer carriage and guide supporting the carriage, a linear motor for the carriage, and a location sensing device for the carriage. A method and apparatus are disclosed for performing an ultrasound scan on a body part and specifically an instrument which directly attaches to the surface of the body. This apparatus provides high resolution images and increased depth of imaging for high resolution ultrasound of targeted subsurface body tissues. Targeted tissues may include joints, ocular structures, and internal organs. The method and apparatus stabilize and provide accurate determination of the position of the body part relative to the ultrasound probe.

Abstract: An ultrasound transducer has an array of transducer elements that are electrically coupled to electrical conductors. In one embodiment, the conductors are included in a flex circuit and engage a conductive surface formed on a number of outwardly extending ribs on a frame that holds the ultrasound array. In one embodiment, the flex circuit includes an alignment feature that engages a corresponding registration feature on the frame so that the traces on the flex circuit align with the ribs on the frame.

Abstract: An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes an ultrasound transceiver and a controller. The ultrasound transceiver includes a changer that changes transmission direction of ultrasound waves. The ultrasound transceiver transmits ultrasound waves in a direction set while being inserted in a subject to acquire biological information of an observation site of the subject. The controller obtains a direction toward the observation site based on the biological information, and controls the changer to adjust the transmission direction of ultrasound waves to the direction thus obtained.

Abstract: A biopsy collecting device includes a needle unit comprising a biopsy specimen. Also, the biopsy collecting device includes an activator unit operatively coupled to the needle unit and including a channel at a bottom surface of the activator unit, wherein the channel is configured to detachably couple the biopsy collecting device to an attaching unit of a spectroscopy system.

Abstract: A quick disconnect assembly including a tubular housing. The housing includes a cam pin secured to the housing and a nut positioned within the housing cannulation. The nut has a first threaded channel adapted to engage a threaded shaft, a second, non-threaded channel extending at an angle to the first channel, and an arcuate groove formed on an outer surface of the nut. When the cam pin of the housing engages the groove at about a distal end of the nut, the nut is positioned in a loading position where the second channel extends approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing. When the cam pin engages the groove at about a proximal end of the nut, the nut is positioned in a locking position where the first channel extends approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing.