Asahi Intecc Group, a manufacturer of medical tools, agreed to acquire Pathways Medical, a developer of medical devices, from Cygnus Investment, an asset management firm, for $30m. "By using the technology of Pathways Medical, a very thin and uniform film can be laminated on thin and curved surfaces, such as those found on guide wires or catheters. When a conductive layer is formed, pattern etching with a laser can realize electrical wiring with a high degree of freedom and accuracy. In general, as the guide wire that attaches the sensor requires the transmission of electrical signals and power, the structure is often such that the wire is passed through the pipe. Therefore, there is a demerit that the basic performance as a guide wire such as torque, rigidity, and strength is significantly reduced," Asahi Intecc Group.