47th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 51 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120296182 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING SLEEP APNEA SEVERITY - Disclosed embodiments include a method and an apparatus for monitoring sleep apnea severity that comprise: (a) analyzing an oxygen saturation signal to extract a plurality of time-domain and frequency-domain metrics; (b) calculating an oxygen saturation-based Apnea Hyponea Index (AHI) by employing a predetermined functional mapping between said metrics and polysomnography (PSG)-based AHI; and (c) displaying an oxygen saturation-based AHI to enable a specialist to monitor sleep apnea severity without requiring PSG. According to a particular embodiment, the oxygen saturation signal is nocturnal oxygen saturation and the functional mapping is a multilinear regression model (MLR) or a multilayer perceptron network (MLP). | 2012-11-22 |
20120296183 | DEVICE CONFIGURATION FOR SUPPORTING A PATIENT OXYGENATION TEST - A method for performing a patient oxygenation test using one or more computing devices is provided. The patient oxygenation test comprises a plurality of instructions for implementing a workflow for determining an oxygenation status for a patient. An entry or selection is received of one or more physiological parameters for the patient to be monitored during the patient oxygenation test. An entry or selection is received of one or more thresholds for at least one of the physiological parameters to be monitored during the patient oxygenation test. A determination is made as to whether any of the physiological parameters exceed limits set by the one or more thresholds. One or more actions are taken when one or more of the physiological parameters exceed the limits set by the one or more thresholds. A summary and analysis are provided of the test results. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296184 | NONINVASIVE PHYSIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS USING EXCITATION-SENSOR MODULES AND RELATED DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods and apparatus for qualifying and quantifying excitation-dependent physiological information extracted from wearable sensors in the midst of interference from unwanted sources are provided. An organism is interrogated with at least one excitation energy, energy response signals from two or more distinct physiological regions are sensed, and these signals are processed to generate an extracted signal. The extracted signal is compared with a physiological model to qualify and/or quantify a physiological property. Additionally, important physiological information can be qualified and quantified by comparing the excitation wavelength-dependent response, measured via wearable sensors, with a physiological model. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296185 | SIGNAL ACQUISITION CIRCUIT FOR DETECTING A WANTED SIGNAL IN THE PRESENCE OF AN UNWANTED SIGNAL - A signal acquisition circuit detects a wanted signal in a composite signal containing the wanted signal and an unwanted signal, where the highest frequency in the unwanted signal is higher than the highest frequency in the wanted signal. A sensor captures the composite signal and an analog-to-digital converter samples and converts the composite signal to digital format, and a filter subtracts the unwanted signal from the composite signal. The sampled signal contains a first component containing the sum of the wanted signal and the unwanted signal sampled at a first rate at least equal to the Nyquist rate for the wanted signal but less than a second rate that is at least equal to the Nyquist rate for the unwanted signal, and a second component containing the unwanted signal sampled at the second rate. The analog-to-digital converter outputs to the filter a first digital signal containing the first component sampled at the first rate and a second digital signal containing the second component at the second rate. The circuit is useful for detecting a photoplethysmograph signal in the presence of ambient light in a pulse oximetry sensor. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296186 | Analyte Sensors Having a Membrane with Low Temperature Sensitivity - Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to analyte determining methods and devices (e.g., electrochemical analyte monitoring systems) that have a membrane with low temperature sensitivity. The sensing layer is disposed on a working electrode of in vivo and/or in vitro analyte sensors, e.g., continuous and/or automatic in vivo monitoring using analyte sensors and/or test strips. Also provided are systems and methods of using the, for example electrochemical, analyte sensors in analyte monitoring. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296187 | Devices and Methods for Obtaining Analyte Sample - Devices, systems and methods for accessing bodily fluid beneath the skin surface by abrading the skin, whereby such bodily fluid may be extracted for ex vivo analysis or whereby an in vivo analyte sensor is implanted at the abrasion site. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296188 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MEASURING OXYGEN - A sensor for measuring oxygen concentration in a tissue or an organ of a subject is provided. The sensor includes a sensory element comprising at least one paramagnetic spin probe compound encapsulated in a biocompatible oxygen permeable material. A barrier layer partially covers the sensory element and is comprised of at least one biocompatible oxygen impermeable material. Oxygen concentration data may be acquired by applying the sensor to the tissue or the organ of the subject, and subsequently applying a magnetic resonance spectroscopy or imaging technique. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296189 | Methods of Collecting and Analyzing Samples - Provided are methods of measuring analyte concentrations in interstitial fluid samples, methods of determining accuracy of subcutaneously implantable analyte sensors, methods of manufacturing and determining calibration factors for subcutaneously implantable analyte sensors, as well as subcutaneously implantable analyte sensors manufactured according to the described methods and having a high level of accuracy. Methods of determining the concentration of an analyte in a bodily sample, and methods of extracting interstitial fluid are also provided. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296190 | MULTILAYER HELICAL WAVE FILTER FOR MEDICAL THERAPEUTIC OR DIAGNOSTIC APPLICATIONS - A multilayer helical wave filter having a primary resonance at a selected RF diagnostic or therapeutic frequency or frequency range, includes an elongated conductor forming at least a portion of an implantable medical lead. The elongated conductor includes a first helically wound segment having at least one planar surface, a first end and a second end, which forms a first inductive component, and a second helically wound segment having at least one planar surface, a first end and a second end, which forms a second inductive element. The first and second helically wound segments are wound in the same longitudinal direction and share a common longitudinal axis. Planar surfaces of the helically wound segments face one another, and a dielectric material is disposed between the facing planar surfaces of the helically wound segments and between adjacent coils of the helically wound segments, thereby forming a capacitance. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296191 | TRANSDUCER MOUNTINGS AND WEARABLE MONITORS - A transducer mounting comprising a compliant elongate support member having a skin engaging surface, adhering means to adhere the skin engaging surface to a wearer's head, and a plurality of transducers longitudinally spaced on the skin engaging surface. A wearable monitor comprising adhering means for adhering the wearable monitor to skin, a skin-facing surface with a transducer thereon for either or both stimulating a physiological response and measuring a physiological parameter, and display means or audio output means integral to the wearable monitor for displaying a signal related to a measured physiological parameter on the wearable monitor or transmitting a sound related to a measured physiological parameter from the wearable monitor, respectively. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296192 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - The present invention provides a photoacoustic imaging apparatus, having: a light source; a plurality of detecting elements for detecting an acoustic wave generated from a surface of an object and a light absorber inside the object, and converting the acoustic wave into a detection signal; and a signal processor for generating image data based on detection signals detected, wherein the signal processor has: a Fourier transformer for performing Fourier transform, in a spatial direction, on the signals detected at a same receiving time so as to obtain spatial frequency signals; and an inverse-Fourier transformer for performing inverse Fourier-transform after reducing components exhibiting less than a predetermined frequency from among the spatial frequency signals so as to obtain second signals, the signal processor generating image data using the second signals. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296193 | System and Method for Hybrid Radiofrequency Labeling for Magnetic Resonance Imaging - A system and method is provided for magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) that includes applying a first labeling pulse sequence to a first labeling region having a first portion of a vasculature of a subject extending through the first labeling region to label spins moving within the first labeling region. A second labeling pulse sequence is applied to a second labeling region having a second portion of a vasculature of the subject extending through the second labeling region to label spins moving within the second labeling region. The first and second labeling pulse sequences include different labeling techniques. An imaging pulse sequence is applied to an imaging region having a third portion of a vasculature of the subject extending through the imaging region that is displaced from the first and second labeling region to acquire imaging data from the spins labeled by the first labeling pulse sequence and the second labeling pulse sequence. An MRA image is reconstructed of at least the third portion of the vasculature of the subject from the medical imaging data. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296194 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING A CONDITION OF A BRAIN - A system for use in determining a condition of a brain, the system including an input device for providing data representing a structure of the brain and a processor communicably connected to the input device. The processor is configured for measuring at east one geometric characteristic of the structure of the brain by reference to the data, determining a brain index value by reference to the at least one geometric characteristic, and, comparing the brain index value against at least one predetermined index whereby, based on a result of the comparison, a condition of the brain is able to be determined corresponding to the brain index value. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296195 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTION AND MONITORING OF ELECTRONICAL ACTIVITY AND MOTION IN THE PRESENCE OF A MAGNETIC FIELD - The invention generally provides a method of detecting or monitoring the characteristics (including change over time) of at least one electrical indicator of the function of a tissue in a biological organism in the presence of a magnetic field. Preferably, the magnetic field is generated by a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The method preferably also comprises one or more steps of detecting or monitoring sources of unwanted signal, and compensating for, or avoiding the unwanted signal. Unwanted signal includes signals arising in part due to the presence of the magnetic field, and/or directly measuring such unwanted signals for the purposes of avoidance of or compensation for the unwanted signals. Preferably, the method also enables detecting motion of the subject during the performance of the method steps discussed in the preceding two paragraphs. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296196 | Method for assisting a person performing a minimally invasive intervention with a catheter involving a puncture of a septum and x-ray device - A method for assisting a person performing a minimally invasive intervention with a catheter involving a puncture of a septum, in particular of a heart, is proposed. A three-dimensional image data record is recorded showing an anatomical structure in the region of the septum. An item of septum information showing the position of the septum is determined in the image data record and additional information is derived from the position of the anatomical structure influencing or showing the selection of a puncture site. During the intervention, the fluoroscopic images of the region are continuously recorded and a current fluoroscopic image is displayed and superimposed with the septum information and/or the additional information based on a registration of the image data record with the fluoroscopic images. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296197 | Therapeutic Apparatus - A therapeutic apparatus comprising a high intensity focused ultrasound system ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296198 | ENDOSCOPIC IMAGING DEVICE - An endoscopic imaging device for endoscopy in a body vessel is disclosed. The device comprises an annular illumination tube comprising an annular illumination fiber for illuminating a body vessel during endoscopy. The device further includes a first imaging tube comprising a first imaging fiber for gross examination and navigation through the body vessel. The first imaging fiber is disposed within the annular illumination tube. The device further comprises a second imaging tube comprising a second imaging fiber for cellular imaging. The second illumination fiber is disposed adjacent the first imaging tube and within the annular illumination tube. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296199 | Apparatus and Method of Non-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Angiography of Abdominal and Pelvic Arteries - Exemplary method and apparatus can be provided for generating information regarding at least one tissue. Using such exemplary method and apparatus, it is possible to generate a plurality of inversion recovery (IR) radio frequency (RF) pulses that are configured to establish an identifier of an element associated with at least one portion of the tissue(s). It is also possible to determine an inversion time associated with at least one of the RF pulses. Further, it is possible to generate, e.g., with a computing arrangement, the information regarding the tissue(s) based on the inversion time. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296200 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TARGETING CATHETER ELECTRODES - A system and method is described for a catheter guidance system which allows an operator to use a mapping catheter to specify tissue target locations for the automatic guidance of a second therapeutic catheter. The operator places a mapping catheter at a desired location, and commands the catheter guidance system by either selecting a point on that catheter or one of the catheter electrode electrocardiograms. The operator may target the selected dynamic location, or tissue contact beyond that location on a specific side of the mapping catheter. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296201 | Lesion Detection and Localization Using Gamma Cameras with Converging Collimation - First and second gamma radiation detector heads are oriented to image an area of a subject. The area of said subject is completely within a field of view that is defined between the first and second gamma radiation heads. Focal points of each of the first and second gamma radiation heads are also within an area defined between the first and second gamma radiation heads. A computer is programmed to receive image information from both the first gamma radiation detector head and the second gamma radiation detector head, and operating to use information from both the first gamma radiation detector head and the second gamma radiation detector head, as well as to use information indicative of a distance between the first gamma radiation detector head and the second gamma radiation detector head, to determine a location of an item of interest in the subject and between the first gamma radiation detector head and the second gamma radiation detector head, by calculating using information about similar triangles formed from known positions of the first gamma radiation detector head and the second gamma radiation detector head, and the information. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296202 | Method and System for Registration of Ultrasound and Physiological Models to X-ray Fluoroscopic Images - A method and system for registering ultrasound images and physiological models to x-ray fluoroscopy images is disclosed. A fluoroscopic image and an ultrasound image, such as a Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) image, are received. A 2D location of an ultrasound probe is detected in the fluoroscopic image. A 3D pose of the ultrasound probe is estimated based on the detected 2D location of the ultrasound probe in the fluoroscopic image. The ultrasound image is mapped to a 3D coordinate system of a fluoroscopic image acquisition device used to acquire the fluoroscopic image based on the estimated 3D pose of the ultrasound probe. The ultrasound image can then be projected into the fluoroscopic image using a projection matrix associated with the fluoroscopic image. A patient specific physiological model can be detected in the ultrasound image and projected into the fluoroscopic image. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296203 | Automatic Identification Of Tracked Surgical Devices Using An Electromagnetic Localization System - A method and apparatus for identifying a member used in a navigation system. The navigation system can determine the identification of an instrument via an input. The input can be substantially automatic when an instrument is introduced into the navigation system field or assembly. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296204 | Multi-Modality Ultrasound and Radio Frequency System for Imaging Tissue - This invention provides a dual-modality system for performing characterization and imaging of tissue, tumors, structures, lesions, and ablations under investigation. Specifically, the invention couples ultrasound technology comprising at least two focused ultrasound beams for vibrating target tissues located at the focal point of the ultrasound beams intersection with a radio frequency system for measuring the response of the target tissues. The ultrasound system vibrates the target tissues while the reflected radio frequency energy is transmitted into the target tissues. When reflected, the main carrier tone of the reflected radio frequency energy is cancelled and analysis is performed on the remaining sideband frequencies. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296205 | Optical Recognition of Tissue and Vessels - Methods and apparatus for optically recognizing tissue parameters during an energy-based tissue-sealing procedure involve grasping tissue with a tissue-sealing instrument, illuminating the grasped tissue or tissue adjacent to the grasped tissue with light, analyzing the light that is transmitted, scattered, or reflected by the tissue, and recognizing the tissue based on the result of analyzing the light. The wavelength of the light may be selected so that a vessel is sufficiently recognizable in tissue containing the vessel. A marker may also be introduced into fluid flowing in the vessel to increase the contrast between the vessel and tissue containing the vessel. Analyzing the light includes analyzing the spatial and spectral distribution of light. Analyzing the light may also include forming the light into an image of the illuminated tissue. The image of the illuminated tissue may be projected onto the eyes of a surgeon or sensed by a matrix of light detectors disposed on a jaw member of the tissue-sealing instrument and transmitted to a display. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296206 | NEEDLE ARRAY ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING THERAPEUTIC AGENTS - A fluid delivery device includes an array of needles, each in fluid communication with a respective reservoir. Respective actuators are coupled so as to be operable to drive fluid from the reservoirs via needle ports. Each needle can have a plurality of ports, and the ports can be arranged to deliver a substantially equal amount of fluid at any given location along its length. A driver is coupled to the actuators to selectively control the rate, volume, and direction of flow of liquid through the needles. The device can simultaneously deliver a plurality of fluid agents along respective axes in solid tissue in vivo. If thereafter resected, the tissue can be sectioned for evaluation of an effect of each agent on the tissue, and based on the evaluation, candidate agents selected or deselected for clinical trials or therapy, and subjects selected or deselected for clinical trials or therapeutic treatment. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296207 | POST-BIOPSY CAVITY TREATMENT IMPLANTS AND METHODS - An implant for filling a cavity created by an excisional procedure includes first and second portions. The first portion may include a first collagenous matrix that defines a first selected crosslinking density and the second portion may include a second collagenous matrix that defines a second selected cross-linking density that is different than the first cross-linking density. The first and second cross-linking densities may be selected so as to cause the first and second portions to swell in such a manner that the implant swells into a size and a shape that is similar to the predetermined size and shape of the cavity when the implant is implanted. An aqueous solution may be added to the cavity if the cavity is not sufficiently aqueous to cause the implant to swell. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296208 | Medical Microbubble Generation - Medical apparatus and processes controllably generate medically useful micro or nano bubbles of medically desirable and controllably selectable size, size distribution, homogeneity and concentration (and/or other key bubble parameters) for patient infusion, and/or which may incorporate therapeutic or other agents for patient infusion and/or may be combined with therapeutic or other agents prior to infusion into patients. The bubble generation apparatus and processes controllably permit the adjustment and selection of key bubble parameters through bubble generation actuation and orientation techniques and through selection of bubble fluid compositions in order to facilitate medical research and/or to optimize treatment for imaging, therapy, sonoporation, inertial and non-inertial cavitation, and acoustic activation, among other medical uses. Disposable cartridges containing such bubbles are provided and may include means for patient infusion. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296209 | ULTRASONIC IMAGING DEVICE AND INFORMATION PROCESSING DEVICE - Provided is an ultrasonic imaging device that noninvasively measures the stiffness of the cardiac muscle, which is the heart muscle, or intracardiac pressure, which is the blood pressure inside the heart. The ultrasonic imaging device includes: an ultrasonic probe ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296210 | WIRELESS NETWORK HAVING PORTABLE ULTRASOUND DEVICES - A patient monitoring system has one or more ultrasound devices that monitor patients. The ultrasound devices can communicate to a central station by way of a wireless data communication network. Ultrasound images acquired by the ultrasound devices may be displayed at the central station. Alarms may be generated based upon conditions detected by the ultrasound devices. An ultrasound device may have a strap that permits it to be held in place with a transducer against the skin of a subject to permit ultrasound observation of the subject either continuously or intermittently over an extended period. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296211 | ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS - An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes a light irradiator for irradiating a lattice point set in the region to be imaged with light converging to the lattice point, so as to impart heat locally to the point; an image for distortion amount calculation-generating section for generating an ultrasound image for distortion amount calculation based on a reception signal of ultrasound generated; and a distortion amount calculating section for calculating the difference between the position of the lattice point on an ultrasound image for distortion amount calculation and the absolute coordinates of the lattice point as the distortion amount. Such apparatus allows precise sound speed values in the living body to be obtained and, accordingly, an ultrasound image of high accuracy to be taken. In consequence, a more accurate diagnosis is conducted on the region to be diagnosed in a subject. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296212 | ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS, CONTROL METHOD, AND IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS - An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an extracting unit, a detecting unit, and a display controlling unit. The extracting unit extracts a cervical image region that is a region including the cervical region from an ultrasonic image of a fetus obtained by transmissions and receptions of ultrasonic waves. The detecting unit detects a dorsal body surface region that is a region that is related to a dorsal body surface of the fetus from the ultrasonic image. The display controlling unit controls to display an enlarged image including an enlarged image of the cervical image region in a region other than the dorsal region in the ultrasonic image on a display device. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296213 | ULTRASOUND FOR LOCATING ANATOMY OR PROBE GUIDANCE - A hand-held apparatus can be used to assist in guiding a probe or locating a particular anatomical target in a subject. The apparatus can include an ultrasonic transducer located on or within a housing and configured to generate ultrasonic energy directed into tissue of a subject and configured to receive a portion of the ultrasonic energy reflected by a target located within the tissue. In an example, the apparatus can include a motion tracking circuit configured to provide information indicative of a motion of the hand-held apparatus to the processor circuit, and a display configured to present information about a location of the target with respect to a portion of the hand-held apparatus, the information about the location determined by the processor circuit using the obtained information indicative of the ultrasonic energy reflected by the target and the information indicative of the motion of the hand-held apparatus. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296214 | ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE, AND REGION-TO-BE-DETECTED IMAGE DISPLAY METHOD AND MEASUREMENT METHOD USING SAME - An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that enables even an unskilled person to get accurate detection done is provided. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296215 | Ultrasound Imaging System Using Beamforming Techniques for Phase Coherence Grating Lobe Suppression - High-frequency ultrasound imaging can be performed with greater quality and suppressed grating lobes by using methods and systems for effectively reducing the temporal length of transmit grating lobe signals in received ultrasound echoes. Systems and methods are provided for improved high-frequency ultrasound imaging. In various aspects, the method of shortening the time domain of grating lobe signals comprises splitting an array of N transmit elements into K sub-apertures. In further aspects, the grating lobes are suppressed by performing signal processing of the shortened grating lobe signals. In certain aspects, the signal processing method comprises weighting the samples by a calculated phase coherence factor. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296216 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF AIMING SENSOR(S) FOR MEASURING CARDIAC PARAMETERS - A placement mechanism for placing a sensor for non invasive measurement of at least one parameter. The placement mechanism comprises a angling unit which angles a sensor in relation to a sensor positioning site on a skin of a target patient in proximity to the ribs while maintaining a front side contact zone of the sensor in contact with the sensor positioning site and an attachment element for attaching the placement mechanism to a body of the target patient so that the front side contact zone being in contact with the sensor positioning site. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296217 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DELIVERING AN ENDOSCOPE VIA MICROSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WHILE PERFORMING MICROSCOPIC SURGERY - The present invention relates to a surgical apparatus that includes a surgical instrument including an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end, a working element coupled to the distal end of the elongated shaft for manipulating tissue; an endoscope having a tubular body including an image fiber, an endoscopic lens coupled to a distal end of the tubular body and operably coupled to the image fiber, the endoscopic lens defining a viewing field about a central axis; and the endoscope mounted to the elongated shaft of the surgical instrument, the endoscopic lens protruding from an outer longitudinal surface of the elongated shaft, the central axis of the viewing field being oblique to the longitudinal axis of the elongated shaft and intersecting the outer longitudinal surface, the working element located within the viewing field and separated from the central axis by a distance. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296218 | FLUORESCENCE ENDOSCOPE DEVICE - Provided is a fluorescence endoscope device that includes a light source; an image generating portion that captures an image of fluorescence generated at a subject due to irradiation with excitation light from the light source to obtain a fluorescence image and that captures an image of return light returning from the subject due to irradiation with reference light to obtain a reference image; an image-correcting portion that corrects the fluorescence image using the reference image to generate a corrected fluorescence image; an effective-area defining portion that defines an effective area having a brightness in a predetermined variation range in the corrected fluorescence image; a region-extracting portion that extracts a high-brightness region having a brightness higher than or equal to the predetermined threshold in the corrected fluorescence image; and an indication portion that shows whether or not the high-brightness region exists inside the effective area in an identifiable manner. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296219 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RESPIRATORY RATE DETECTION AND EARLY DETECTION OF BLOOD LOSS VOLUME - An apparatus and method is provided that provide, in real-time, an accurate detection and warning of dangerous blood or fluid loss to warn of impending hypovolemia, by non-invasive monitoring and processing of photoplethysmography data. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296220 | DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD OF DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTING APPARATUS - A diagnosis supporting apparatus includes: an image input section that inputs an endoscopic image acquired from a living tissue, a structure detection section that detects similar circular-shaped structures from an image signal corresponding to the endoscopic image inputted to the image input section, and a network detection section that detects a predetermined network shape in the endoscopic image, based on a number of similar circular-shaped structures detected by the structure detection section, areas of the similar circular-shaped structures, distances between the respective similar circular-shaped structures, or a number of connections between the respective similar circular-shaped structures. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296221 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING A RESPIRATION SIGNAL - The invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining a respiration of a subject ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296222 | Implantable Medical Sensor and Anchoring System - A medical device adapted to be implanted in a vessel of a human body includes a housing that contains means for performing medical functions and an anchor for supporting the housing in an intended location and orientation within the vessel. The anchor is expandable from a low profile configuration adapted for delivery to an expanded configuration for engagement with the vessel wall. The anchor and delivery device are adapted to enable the medical device to be retrieved and repositioned or removed from the vessel. The anchor is adapted to apply sufficient force against the vessel wall to maintain the anchor in place but less force than that required to provide scaffolding support for the vessel. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296223 | BLOOD PRESSURE INFORMATION MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD OF BLOOD PRESSURE INFORMATION MEASUREMENT DEVICE - A measurement device pressurizes two cuffs in a state in which the cuffs are attached to the distal side and the proximal side of the measurement device, respectively, calculates an AI value or the like based on a pulse wave detected from a change in cuff pressure on the distal side while pressurizing the two cuffs, and determines that avascularization on the distal side has been completed if the AI value or the like has converged. Once it is determined that avascularization has been completed, the cuff pressure on the distal side is fixed, and a pulse wave is detected from a change in cuff pressure on the proximal side in a state in which the distal side is avascularized. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296224 | SENSOR DETERMINING A PHYSICAL OR PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETER - The present invention relates to determining or measuring a biological, physical or physiological parameter of an object ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296225 | System for Cardiac Condition Detection Responsive to Blood Pressure Analysis - A system provides cardiac arrhythmia detection and performs blood pressure analysis of multiple catheter channels of blood pressure signals to characterize heart hemodynamic activity. A system for heart performance characterization and abnormality detection includes a repository, data processor and output processor. The repository of data comprises, first distribution data representing a probability distribution of a first patient parameter over a first time period and acquired on a first occasion and second distribution data representing a probability distribution of the first patient parameter over a second time period and acquired on a second occasion subsequent to the first occasion. The data processor calculates an overlap indicator indicating degree of overlap of the first distribution data and the second distribution data in a predetermined interval of the distributions. The output processor provides the calculated overlap indicator to a destination device. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296226 | PREDICTIVE DROWSINESS ALARM METHOD - A method for predicting drowsiness is disclosed. By obtaining average heart beat rate values of a driver, and according to the characteristics of the heart beat rate values over a period of time, the method is utilized to determine whether the human being is going to sleep. The method comprises the following steps: detecting a heart beat rate of a driver; calculating a curve of the heart beat rate average during a time interval of X minutes; determining an accumulated period of time during which the slope values of the linear regression equations are smaller than the predetermined slope value Z; determining whether the length of the accumulated period of time is greater than a time threshold T to generate a drowsiness detecting result; and determining whether to raise an alarm based on the drowsiness detecting result. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296227 | Electro-myocardial cardiogram (EmCG) Parameter's CSS/RSS for calculating heart performance - A method to evaluate Electro-Myocardial Cardiogram (EmCG) parameters is disclosed. The method comprises calculating a Contraction Strength Strain (CSS) and Relaxation Strength Strain (RSS) index. The calculation is represented by a non-linear waveform that represents the excitement function and pump function of the heart. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296228 | HEART SOUNDS-BASED PACING OPTIMIZATION - An implantable medical device receives both heart sound and electrogram signals. A processor within the implantable medical device extracts physiologically relevant information from both the heart sound signal and the electrogram signal. Based on the extracted physiologically relevant information a set of pacing parameters is evaluated. In certain examples, the values of the pacing parameters may be changed by the implantable medical device in response to the physiologically relevant information extracted from the heart sound signal and the electrogram signal. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296229 | NEONATAL COLORIMETRIC CARBON DIOXIDE DETECTOR - A neonatal colorimetric carbon dioxide detector has a colorimetric carbon dioxide detector membrane having a pH-sensitive chemical indicator that undergoes colorimetric change in the presence of carbon dioxide. The detector has a patient orifice in fluid communication with the baby's airway and a respiration equipment orifice connected to a breathing system. The patient orifice is connected to a breathing tube and when the breathing tube is inserted correctly into the trachea, as the baby exhales, carbon dioxide interacts with the colorimetric membrane which changes color based upon the concentration of carbon dioxide. The internal volume of the neonatal colorimetric carbon dioxide detector is reduced to properly function with low-birth-weight (neonatal) infants. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296230 | NEUROLOGIC MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method, system, and products that allow for accurate localization, virtual depiction, and testing of nerve(s) or neural structures that course through or around a proposed surgical site are described. The method and system employs a variety of types of neurodiagnostic tests that incorporate sensory, motor, and mixed nerve conduction studies in an orthodromic and antidromic fashion as well as utilizing triggered electromyography. This method, system, and products allow for a much more specific and sensitive method to assess the baseline function and continued integrity of nerves and neural structures prior to, during, and after a surgical procedure. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296231 | BODY IMPEDANCE MEASUREMENT APPARATUS - A body impedance measurement apparatus having high aesthetic qualities can be realized without increasing the manufacturing costs thereof by providing a membrane-type electrode formed integrally with the surface of a resinous first housing through insert molding. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296232 | METHOD AND APPARATUS OF ASSESSING TRANSVASCULAR DENERVATION - Embodiments of the invention provide catheter devices for assessing transvascular denervation. A method of assessing denervation comprises: introducing intravascularly a catheter to a vessel of a patient, the catheter including one or more recording elements; performing a baseline recording of responses by supplying nerve stimulation to the vessel and recording responses of the vessel to the nerve stimulation; denervating at least some tissue proximate the vessel after performing the baseline recording; performing a post-denervation recording of responses, after the denervating, by supplying nerve stimulation to the vessel and recording responses of the vessel to the nerve stimulation; and assessing denervation of the vessel based on a comparison of the responses of the baseline recording and the responses of the post-denervation recording. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296233 | Methods and apparatus for an analyte detecting device - In one embodiment according to the present invention, a device is provided comprising a cartridge having a plurality of cavities. The device may include a plurality of penetrating members at least partially contained in the cavities of the single cartridge wherein the penetrating members are slidably movable to extend outward from lateral openings on the cartridge to penetrate tissue. The device may have a sterility barrier coupled to the cartridge, wherein the sterility barrier covers a plurality of the lateral openings, and wherein the sterility barrier covering the lateral openings is configured to be moved so that a penetrating member exits the lateral opening without contacting the barrier. The device may include a plurality of analyte detecting members coupled to the cartridge and a plurality of sample capture devices, wherein the sample capture devices each having an opening there through to allow a penetrating member to pass through. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296234 | MEASURING SKELETAL DISTRACTION - In one aspect, a method includes transmitting an interrogation signal. A first signal transmitted in response to the interrogation signal is detected, the first signal being transmitted by a first transponder arranged to move with a first bone fragment. A second signal transmitted in response to the interrogation signal is detected, the second signal being transmitted by a second transponder arranged to move with a second bone fragment. A distance between the bone fragments is determined using the detected signals. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296235 | AUTOMATED SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING AND MONITORING PHYSICAL THERAPY EXERCISES - An automated system and method for performing and monitoring physical therapy exercises that includes the computerized motion capture of a user performing physical therapy exercises, comparison of the user's exercises to an idealized stored digital representation of the same exercises based on body type, and real time feedback to the user to enable the user to correct and complete the exercises. The system and method may also include the automated transmission of the user's physical therapy exercise session and related information to the user's healthcare professional. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296236 | THERAPY SYSTEM INCLUDING MULTIPLE POSTURE SENSORS - Posture-responsive therapy is delivered by the medical system based on posture state input from only one of multiple posture sensors at any given time. An example implantable medical system includes a first posture sensor and a second sensor. A processor controls therapy delivery to the patient based on at least one of a patient posture state or a patient activity level determined based on input from only one of the first or second posture sensors. In some examples, one of multiple posture sensors of an implantable posture-responsive medical system is used to automatically reorient another posture sensor (of the system), which has become disoriented. The disoriented posture sensor may be automatically reoriented for one or more posture states at a time. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296237 | MOTOR COORDINATION SKILLS MEASUREMENT AND ASSESSMENT - There is described a computer-interfaced hand coordination measuring device that can track performance over time and report various types of errors, such as sequential, misses, perseverations, and balancing. The apparatus may be coupled to a computer and accompanying software is used to collect data from the administered tests and provide a report of the subject's scores for each hand on simple repetitive, sequential, and bimanual in-phase and out-of-phase tapping. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296238 | System and Methods for Energy-Based Sealing of Tissue with Optical Feedback - An energy-based tissue-sealing system and method provide higher sealing quality by measuring and using optical feedback parameters that are directly correlated to structural changes of tissue. The tissue-sealing system includes a sealing energy source, an instrument having a mechanism for grasping and deforming the tissue and for delivering sealing energy to the tissue, a light source, optical sensors, and a controller for controlling parameters of the sealing energy generated by the sealing energy source based upon the optical parameters of the tissue structure sensed by the optical sensors. At the beginning of a sealing procedure, the controller may monitor an initial optical parameter of the tissue and select a target trajectory of tissue optical parameters based on the initial optical parameter. During the sealing procedure, the controller monitors at least one optical parameter of the tissue structure and controls at least one parameter of the sealing energy based on the at least one optical parameter. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296239 | Destruction of Vessel Walls for Energy-Based Vessel Sealing Enhancement - An end effector assembly for use with an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The end effector assembly includes a pair of opposing jaw members configured to grasp tissue therebetween, at least one jaw member adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy to seal tissue disposed between jaw members during a sealing process. At least one of the jaw members includes an activator configured to selectively impart mechanical perturbations to the at least one jaw member during the sealing process. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296240 | ULTRASOUND EYE BAG TREATMENT - A method is provided comprising placing an energy source coupled to a first support structure, at a first location on skin of an eyelid and placing a second structure at a second location on the skin of the eyelid, the second location being farther from the eye than is the first location. A portion of skin of the eyelid and underlying tissue is held between the first and second structures and treatment energy is transmitted from the energy source, from the first location away from the eye, through the tissue, toward the second location on the skin of the eyelid, while withholding transmission of treatment energy from the second location on the skin of the eyelid, toward the eye, through the portion of tissue, toward the first location on the skin of the eyelid. Other embodiments are also described. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296241 | ULTRASOUND NEUROMODULATION FOR TREATMENT OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AND ALZHEIMERS DISEASE AND OTHER DEMENTIAS - Disclosed are methods and systems and methods for non-invasive neuromodulation using ultrasound for the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders and Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias. The neuromodulation can produce acute or long-term effects. The latter occur through Long-Term Depression (LTD) and Long-Term Potentiation (LTP) via training. Included is control of direction of the energy emission, intensity, frequency, pulse duration, firing pattern, and phase/intensity relationships to targeting and accomplishing up regulation and/or down regulation. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296242 | PASSIVE EXERCISE EQUIPMENT - A drive device has a motor for generating a drive force, a power transmission unit for transmitting the force generated by the motor to first and second foot support tables, thereby moving the foot support tables, and a control unit for controlling the motor. The power transmission unit is connected to an output shaft of the motor. The power transmission unit has a left foot reciprocation mechanism for reciprocating a left foot support table, a right foot reciprocation mechanism for reciprocating a right foot support table, and a power divergence unit for diverging the force of the motor into the reciprocation mechanisms and transmitting the force thereto. The power transmission unit alternately transmits the rotation force of the motor to the left and right foot support tables, thereby causing the left and right foot support tables to alternately move in a forward and backward direction in increments of one reciprocation. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296245 | ADJUSTABLE HELMET AND HEAD MASSAGER - An adjustable helmet and a head massager are provided. The adjustable helmet comprises a ring-shaped latitudinal shell and a longitudinal shell connected across the latitudinal shell, at least one of the longitudinal shell and the latitudinal shell has an adjustable means, the inside of the adjustable means has a bidirectional locking structure. In the embodiments, the adjustable means has a bidirectional locking structure which can lock the latitudinal shell or longitudinal shell in bi-direction. When the latitudinal shell or longitudinal shell is disengaged or contracted by the adjustable means and is locked by the bidirectional locking structure, the latitudinal shell or longitudinal shell is fixed in the expanding direction or contracting direction and can't continue to be expanded or contracted inwards. Advantageously, the helmet in use has a constant size, which is useful for users, when the above-mentioned adjustable helmet is applied to a head massager, it's convenient for massage. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296246 | HIGH FREQUENCY CHEST WALL OSCILLATION SYSTEM HAVING VALVE CONTROLLED PULSES - An air pulse generator provides a high frequency chest wall oscillation therapy to a patient wearing an inflatable garment. The air pulse generator includes a blower and a valve coupled to the blower and coupled to the inflatable garment. The valve is movable to apply an oscillating pressure to the inflatable garment. The valve may be a rotary valve or a solenoid valve. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296247 | Dynamic Support Apparatus and System - A control unit system. The system includes a control unit which includes a control unit charging interface, at least one magnet located proximate to the control unit charging interface, at least one actuator, a detachable manifold including at least one magnet, fluidly coupled to the at least one actuator, a pump connected to the at least one actuator for causing actuation thereof, and a control system for controlling the pump, wherein the control system controls the pump to actuate the at least one actuator at least in response to a signal received by the control system. The system also includes a recharging device configured to receive the control unit, the recharging device including a reed switch, wherein when the magnet in the control unit is located proximate to the reed switch, the switch is activated. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296248 | SUPPORT BODY FOR KNEE ORTHOSES AND/OR KNEE JOINT BRACES - A support body ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296249 | IN SITU MOLDED ORTHOTIC AND METHOD FOR ITS FABRICATION - An orthotic helmet and methods for fabrication and use thereof. The orthotic is molded in situ on a growing infant's head for the treatment of plagiocephaly, postsurgical cranial molding, or other desired treatment plans. The helmet makes contact in areas where cranial shape and volume are adequate, and no contact in areas of planned cranial growth. The helmet includes a shell, a bladder system which can be filled with a viscoelastic expandable foam, a fastener and a retaining strap. In the areas of deficient cranial volume, a volume of modeling putty equivalent to the target growth volume is placed against the cranium, manually molded until the planned target volume and form have been attained, and the helmet is molded in place over this spacer material. The spacer is then removed, and the helmet is then worn continuously until resolution of the deformity or attainment of planned form is reached. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296250 | FUNCTIONAL LOW-PROFILE DYNAMIC EXTENSION SPLINT AND METHODS FOR ITS USE AND MANUFACTURE - The present invention relates to medical devices and methods useful for improving a person's ability to grasp and release an object, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a splint for causing dynamic extension of a finger and/or thumb. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296251 | KNEE ORTHOSIS FOR TORN ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT - The orthosis includes an articulated framework made to be fixed on either side of the knee onto the thigh and lower leg, restraint straps attached to the framework and surrounding the thigh and lower leg leaving the patellar area free. The straps cross and are superimposed on each other on the posterior side next to the skin of the popliteal fossa at the same level as the center of rotation of the knee in order to prevent the anterior part of the tibia sliding forward. Each strap is held in a rigid guide on the lower leg and the thigh, while, where they cross at the popliteal fossa, they are held together by a non stretching sleeve. The first shortest strap is on the outside, as far posteriorly as possible and the last longest strap is on the inside, as far anteriorly as possible next to the skin of the popliteal fossa. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296252 | Head Trauma Bandage Cap and Method - An emergency head trauma bandage cap with a detachable strap system and method of use, which, when applied to the head, delivers minimal pressure to control bleeding, doesn't compromise cervical spine immobilization, allows for fast and effective application of cold packs to control intracranial/internal swelling or hot packs to prevent hypothermia in non-trauma situations, doesn't come apart during treatment and transport, and doesn't require a caregiver to re-wrap the dressing. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296253 | HAEMODIALYSIS MACHINE RETROFIT AND CONTROL INSTALLATION AND USE THEREOF FOR THE TREATMENT OF PROLIFERATIVE DISORDERS - A haemodialysis machine retrofit and control installation including an intake-flow blood glucose sensor and an intake-flow blood glutamine sensor, a return-flow blood glucose sensor and return-flow blood glutamine sensor, a dialysate glucose- and glutamine controller, a central control unit connected to the blood glucose- and glutamine sensors, the dialysate glucose- and glutamine controllers for regulating the glucose and glutamine levels in the dialysate to obtain required blood-glucose and glutamine concentrations at the return-flow blood glucose- and glutamine sensors and an electroencephalograph (EEG) monitor providing the central control unit with information pertaining to spontaneous electro-cerebral activity to initiate raising of glucose and glutamine levels. Also disclosed is a method of treating a proliferative disorder in a human or animal, by reducing via a retrofitted haemodialysis machine blood-glucose or glutamine concentrations in the human or animal body for a pre-defined period of time. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296254 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR INTRAGASTRIC SUPPORT OF FUNCTIONAL OR PROSTHETIC GASTROINTESTINAL DEVICES - Disclosed herein are systems and methods for attaching or maintaining the position of a therapeutic or diagnostic device in a body lumen, such as the GI tract without necessarily requiring any penetrating attachments through any body walls. The system can include at least two elements: a proximal orientation element and a distal support element. The proximal orientation element can be configured to reside at least partially within the esophageal lumen and the distal support element can be configured to reside in the stomach, such as along the greater curve of the stomach. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296255 | DEVICE FOR PUNCTURING BODY AND INTRODUCING CATHETER - A device for puncturing body and introducing catheter includes a puncture needle, a guide wire, a peelable catheter sheath, and a puncture protector. The peelable catheter sheath includes an outer sheath and an inner sheath inserted into the outer sheath and having an expansible performance. The inner sheath has a hollow internal cavity, and the guide wire can pass through the hollow internal cavity. The puncture protector includes an inner core, a nut and a spring. The inner core has an inner core head, an inner core tail, and an inner core lumen. The nut has a nut lumen. The inner core is surrounded by the spring, one end of which abuts against the nut, and the other end of which is fastened to the inner core. The inner core tail lies within the nut lumen. The guide wire matches with the inner core lumen. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296256 | ENDOVASCULAR CEREBROSPINAL FLUID SHUNT - An implantable shunt device for draining cerebrospinal fluid from a patient's subarachnoid space. The device includes a shunt having opposed first and second ends. A one-way valve is located at the first end of the shunt. A helical tip is disposed at the second end. The helical tip is constructed to penetrate a sinus wall of the patient. Upon implantation, a hollow passageway extends between the helical tip and one-way valve such that fluid can be drained through the helical tip and out through the valve. The endovascular cerebrospinal fluid shunt of the present invention can be placed into a patient percutaneously via a catheter inserted into the venous system of the body through a needle hole, without the need for open surgery and the skin incisions required with current shunt devices. The device also allows for more physiologic drainage of cerebrospinal fluid since the device is shunting cerebrospinal fluid into the same cerebral venous system that occurs naturally in normal people. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296257 | BILIARY SHUNTS, DELIVERY SYSTEMS, METHODS OF USING THE SAME AND KITS THEREFOR - The application discloses devices, systems, kits and methods for treating biliary disease. Device comprise, for example, a component configured for deployment between a gallbladder and location within a gastrointestinal tract of a patient which has a proximal end and a distal end with a lumen extending therethrough. A method of deploying the device can be achieved by, for example, creating a duct or fistula between a gallbladder lumen and a portion of a gastrointestinal tract; and providing for drainage from the gallbladder to the gastrointestinal tract. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296258 | Intraocular Pressure Sensor with External Pressure Compensation - An intraocular pressure sensor system has a first pressure sensor located in an anterior chamber of an eye and a remote pressure sensor located remotely from the first pressure sensor. The remote pressure sensor measures or approximates atmospheric pressure. A difference between readings from the first pressure sensor and the remote pressure sensor approximates intraocular pressure. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296259 | SOLID DRUG DELIVERY APPARATUS AND FORMULATIONS AND METHODS OF USE - Embodiments provide apparatus and methods for delivering solid form medications such as pellets to various locations in the body. One embodiment provides an apparatus for in vivo delivery of medication pellets comprising a first chamber including an opening; a second chamber substantially surrounding the first chamber, a carriage disposed in the first chamber, a mechanism for transferring the medication pellets from the first chamber to the second chamber and a pusher plate. The carriage can hold and dispense a plurality of medication pellets. Each pellet contains a selected dose of drug to treat a medical condition. A catheter is positioned in the second chamber. The catheter has a lumen sized for the pellet, a proximal end inside the chamber and a distal end extending through chamber opening to deliver the pellet to a delivery site. The pusher plate engages and advances the pellet though the catheter to the delivery site. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296260 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY - The invention relates to an apparatus for photodynamic therapy and/or for destroying or reducing microorganisms, comprising an irradiation unit having at least one light source, by means of which a photosensitizer applied to a wound area to be treated is activated by way of irradiation, further comprising a camera for recording images of the wound, which is disposed in the irradiation unit, and a positioning unit, by means of which the irradiation unit can be oriented with respect to the wound area. The invention further relates to a method for operating such an apparatus. On a display for the images is a grid with visual indicia distinguishing fields to be irradiated by means of the light sources. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296261 | DELIVERY DEVICE AND DELIVERY METHODS - Various delivery devices and methods are disclosed, including a delivery device ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296262 | ENERGY FACILITATED COMPOSITION DELIVERY - A device for delivering a composition to a hollow body region is disclosed. In one aspect, the device comprises a first longitudinal member and a second longitudinal member. Both of the longitudinal members may comprise conductive electrodes. The longitudinal members are further configured to be connected to an energy source such that the conductive electrodes are configured to generate an energy field. At least one of the longitudinal members further comprises a delivery element configured to deliver at least one composition to the body region, such that the composition is delivered in a direction that is influenced by the generated energy field. In one aspect, the body region is a vessel comprising an occlusion. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296263 | TOPICAL AMINOLEVULINIC ACID-PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACNE VULGARIS - Light treatments of sebaceous gland disorders with 5-aminolevulinic acid and photodynamic therapy are disclosed. A preferred treatment includes topical application of 5-aminolevulinic acid to the skin followed by light exposures with repeated treatment at various intervals. At low doses of ALA and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in single or multiple treatments, improvement in the sebaceous gland disorder, e.g., acne, provides the discovery that diminishment in sebum secretion and the eradication of bacteria occurs. At high doses of ALA and a single high energy PDT treatment, permanent changes to the sebaceous gland and sebum secretion have been discovered. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296264 | Method of Controlling a Surgical System Based on a Load on the Cutting Tip of a Handpiece - A surgical system that is able to sense the onset of an occlusion or other surgical event as well as the instant an occlusion breaks. To help avoid overheating of the tip, the system determines an approximate temperature of the eye using an irrigation flow rate and reduces the power to the handpiece automatically if an overheating situation is predicted. Alternatively or in addition, the system monitors the power drawn by the handpiece, which is indicative of the cutting load on the tip, and automatically adjusts the power or stroke of the tip to compensate for increased loads on the tip. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296265 | APPARATUS FOR ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE PIN-TO-HOLE SPARK DISCHARGE AND USES THEREOF - Disclosed herein are atmospheric pressure pin-to-hole pulsed spark discharge devices and methods for creating plasma. The devices include a conduit for fluidically communicating a gas, a plasma, or both, therethrough, portion of the conduit capable of being connected to a gas supply, and a second portion of the conduit capable of emitting a plasma; a positive electrode comprising a sharp tip; and a ground plate electrode. Disclosed are methods for treating a skin ulcer using non-thermal plasma include flowing a gas through a cold spark discharge zone simultaneously with the creation of a pulsed spark discharge to give rise to a non-thermal plasma emitted from a conduit, the non-thermal plasma comprising NO; and contacting a skin ulcer with said non-thermal plasma for sufficient time and intensity to give rise to treatment of the skin ulcer. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296266 | Systems and Methods For Promoting Wound Healing - In various embodiments, provided are topical gas delivery systems and methods for promoting wound healing. A provided gas delivery system comprises a gas reservoir comprising at least one chamber adapted to contain one or more therapeutic gases selected from NO, CO, O | 2012-11-22 |
20120296267 | DIALYSIS SYSTEM AND MACHINE HAVING THERAPY PRESCRIPTION RECALL - In an embodiment, an automated peritoneal dialysis (“APD”) machine includes at least one pump, a logic implementer storing a plurality of therapy prescriptions by which to operate the at least one pump, each therapy prescription pre-approved for a particular patient, and an input device operating with the logic implementer to allow the patient to select one of the therapy prescriptions for a particular therapy. In another embodiment, the input device operating with the logic implementer allows a doctor/clinician to select or approve one of the therapy prescriptions to be run on the APD machine. In a further embodiment, the logic implementer is programmed to select or suggest one of the therapy prescriptions to be run on the APD machine. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296268 | Medication Delivery Device - An ear medication delivery device for delivering a treatment liquid and retaining the treatment liquid within an ear canal of a patient including a unitary, one piece earplug formed of a soft resilient material including an ear canal engaging portion and an external portion and defining a single internal passage therethrough. The external portion includes a major disk and an annular medication applicator receiving portion in fluid communication with the internal passage. The ear canal engaging portion includes at least two minor disks of progressively different size extending outwardly in a generally radial direction. The ear canal engaging portion defines a molded resilient valve unitary with the earplug that is shiftable from a closed position to an open position in either direction under a preselected fluid pressure and that resiliently returns to the closed position below the preselected fluid pressure. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296269 | INSULIN PUMP HAVING BASAL RATE TESTING FEATURES - Methods of establishing an insulin delivery rate in a pump and an insulin pump are disclosed. A method includes selecting a set of alerts from one or more sets of alerts. The method also includes initiating a test process based on the set of alerts. The method further includes, upon activation of each alert in the selected set of alerts, prompting a user to input a blood glucose level. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296270 | VISCOUS FORMULATIONS AND THEIR USE IN NEEDLE-FREE INJECTION - Formulations are described that are viscous and will benefit from needle-free delivery at high driving pressures. Conventional delivery of these viscous formulations by hypodermic syringes is inconvenient as well as painful. Formulations include those which have a viscosity of about 5 cS or more at about 20° C. and which can have 0.5 ml or more administered by a needle-free injector in about 0.1 second±0.02 seconds. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296271 | WIRELESS REMOTE NEUROSTIMULATOR - A therapy system includes a therapy module implantable within a mammalian body that provides a given therapy and a control module implantable within the mammalian body that effects the therapy provided by the therapy module. The control module is physically separate from the therapy module. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296272 | Catheter for transanal irrigation - The invention relates to a catheter for transanal irrigation comprising a distal section ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296273 | CATHETER HAVING TRANSITIONING SHAFT SEGMENTS - A catheter having shaft segments which are joined together by a strong bond providing a low profile shaft section with a flexibility transition and/or a compositional transition. A balloon catheter embodying features of the invention has a distal tip member and a coupling band member surrounding a junction of an inner tubular member of the shaft, and has a gradual change in bending stiffness along a distal end section of the shaft which extends distally from a location within the balloon interior. Another catheter embodying features of the invention has shaft segments joined together by a diagonal seam. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296274 | DELIVERY OF COATED HYDROPHOBIC ACTIVE AGENT PARTICLES - Embodiments of the invention include devices and coatings for devices including coated hydrophobic active agent particles. In an embodiment, the invention includes a drug delivery device including a substrate; and coated therapeutic agent particles disposed on the substrate, the coated therapeutic agent particles comprising a particulate hydrophobic therapeutic agent; and a cationic agent in contact with the particulate hydrophobic therapeutic agent. Other embodiments are also included herein. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296275 | SHEATH-DILATOR SYSTEM AND USES THEREOF - A medical device includes a sheath having a proximal end and a distal end, the sheath having an opening at both the proximal end and the distal end, and a removable dilator having a distal end and a proximal end, the dilator having at least one blood detector disposed on a tapered portion of the distal end of the dilator, the dilator positionable within the sheath such that the tapered portion of the distal end of the dilator extends through the opening in the distal end of the sheath, the proximal end of the dilator extends through the opening in the proximal end of the sheath, and at least a portion of the at least one blood detector is adjacent to the distal end of the sheath. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296276 | INJECTION APPARATUS - An injection apparatus includes a counter wheel ( | 2012-11-22 |
20120296277 | Cutting Element For A Retracting Needle Syringe - A cutting element for a retracting needle syringe having a plunger with a cuttable distal end and a spring biased needle held by a cuttable support and a cutting element capable of cutting the cuttable distal end and the cuttable support includes a body portion having a proximal end, a distal end side wall therebetween and a passageway therethrough. The distal end of the body portion includes a cutting edge and a raised distally projecting tapered cutting tooth having distally converging edges. At least one tooth edge includes a sharp side wall for cutting the distal end of the plunger and the needle support. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296278 | PEN NEEDLE TIP - A needle tip assembly includes a needle tip, a needle tip cover structured and arranged to facilitate installation of the needle tip onto at least one of a pen needle, a pre-loaded syringe, and an injection device, and a slot arranged on a sidewall of a body of the needle tip. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296279 | ACCESS DISCONNECTION METHOD USING OPTICAL AND OTHER SENSORS - A method for detecting movement or disconnection of a needle at an access site of a patient comprising: sensing for a presence of blood at the access site while a medical procedure is performed on the patient; separately sensing for a movement of (i) the needle or (ii) tubing connected to the needle; and sending a signal indicating movement or disconnection of the needle if one of (a) the presence of blood is sensed or (b) movement is sensed under (i) or (ii). | 2012-11-22 |
20120296280 | MICRO NEEDLE AND MICRO NEEDLE DEVICE - The micro needle includes a needle and a body. The needle includes an inclined part including an inclined outer wall, a straight part including a straight outer wall, and a recess having a certain depth along the inclined or straight outer wall. The body is coupled to the needle to move or support the needle. The micro needle apparatus includes a micro needle head part, an infrared generator part, and a power supply part. The micro needle head part includes a plurality of micro needles having front ends protruding out of the micro needle head part. When the micro needles are pressed against a skin, the micro needles arrive at a dermis of the skin. The infrared generator part generates an infrared or far infrared ray to the skin through an inside or outside of the micro needle. The power supply part supplies energy required for the infrared generator part. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296281 | Holding Device for Holding a Manually Operated Medical Device - Holding device for holding a manually operated medical device in place, comprising: a connector arranged to connect the holding device to a positioning apparatus; a clamp member arranged to clamp the medical device, wherein the clamp member is moveable between a locking position wherein the medical device is clamped and a moving position wherein the medical device is moveable with respect to the holding device; a joint assembly arranged to allow movement between the clamp member and the connector, wherein the joint assembly is moveable between a moving position wherein the clamp member is moveable with respect to the connector and a locking position wherein movement between the clamp member and the connector is prevented, and; an actuator for moving both the joint assembly and the clamp member between the moving positions and the locking positions. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296282 | TIP PROTECTOR FOR A SAFETY CATHETER - A safety catheter includes a catheter hub, a needle cannula having a tip, and a tip protector. The tip protector includes an outer member and an inner member therein. The outer member has a projection releasably engaging the catheter hub. The inner member has a pair of arms extending to free ends from a base. The inner member is axially shiftable relative to the outer member between a first position wherein the needle tip is distal of the tip protector and the free ends of the arms are spread apart such that the distal tip is not shielded, and a second position wherein the tip is within the inner and outer members and the free ends of the arms are brought into close proximity such that the distal tip is shielded. The inner member is entirely received within the outer member in both the fort and the second positions thereof. | 2012-11-22 |
20120296283 | Gastric Insertion Confirmation Device and Related Methods Therefor - A confirmation device. The device includes a housing having a central passageway and a secondary passageway extending from the central passageway. The device also has a negative pressure member in communication with the secondary passageway and an indicator mechanism in fluid communication with the secondary passageway for visually indicating the presence of one or more components within the secondary passageway. The negative pressure member is operable to draw fluid across the indicator mechanism. | 2012-11-22 |