16th week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 36 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110092754 | PRE-DISTRIBUTION PLATE FILTRATION WITH OVERFLOW TUBE FOR FIXED BED REACTOR OPERATING IN GAS AND LIQUID CO-CURRENT DOWNFLOW MODE - The device described in the present invention allows pre-distribution of the gas and liquid feed supplying a reactor functioning in gas and liquid co-current downflow mode to be carried out by means of a pre-distribution plate comprising a filtration medium and an overflow tube in order to regulate the flow of liquid arriving on the distributor plate located downstream of said device. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092755 | Production of Para-Xylene by the Methylation of Benzene and/or Toluene - In a process for the production of para-xylene, methanol is preheated to a first temperature, an aromatic feedstock comprising toluene and/or benzene is preheated to a second temperature and the preheated methanol and aromatic feedstocks are fed to a reactor at a first methanol to aromatic feedstock molar ratio. The preheated aromatic feedstock is contacted with the preheated methanol under alkylation conditions in the reactor in the presence of a catalyst so that the methanol reacts with the aromatic feedstock to produce an effluent comprising para-xylene. During the reaction, a temperature is measured within the reactor and is compared with a predetermined optimal temperature. The methanol to aromatic feedstock molar ratio is then adjusted in a manner to reduce any difference between the measured and predetermined optimal temperatures in the reactor. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092756 | Production of Para-Xylene by the Methylation of Benzene and/or Toluene - In a process for the production of para-xylene, an aromatic feedstock comprising toluene and/or benzene is reacted with methanol under alkylation conditions in a reactor in the presence of a fluidized bed of solid catalyst particles to produce a vapor phase effluent comprising para-xylene, water, unreacted toluene and/or benzene and solid catalyst fines. The vapor phase effluent is contacted with a liquid hydrocarbon quench stream under conditions to condense a minor portion of the vapor phase effluent and produce a condensate which contains at least some of the catalyst fines and which is substantially free of an aqueous phase. The condensate containing said catalyst fines is then separated from the remainder of the vapor phase effluent. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092757 | ZEOLITE-CONTAINING CATALYST AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE SAME, AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING PROPYLENE - The present invention provides a zeolite-containing catalyst having excellent shape, fluidity and mechanical strength as a catalyst for a fluidized bed reaction. The present invention provides a zeolite-containing catalyst which is a particulate catalyst containing zeolite and silica, wherein the catalyst has an average particle diameter of 20 to 300 μm and the ratio of the void area in the cross-section of the particle is 30% or less relative to the cross-section area of the particle. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092758 | Method of Purifying Olefins Using Pyrrolidinium-Based or Piperidinium-Based Ionic Liquids Comprising Copper (I) Halide - The present invention relates to a method of purifying olefin, the method comprising removing a small amount of acetylenic compounds contained in olefin by using pyrrolidinium-based or piperidinium-based ionic liquid mixtures comprising copper (I) halide. According to the method of the present invention, copper (I) halide is stabilized by pyrrolidinium-based or piperidinium-based ionic liquids, suppressing the oxidation of Cu(I) into Cu(II), whereby the capacity of removing acetylenic compounds can be maintained for a long time and the selective removal rate of acetylenic compounds to olefin can be significantly improved. In addition, since the ionic liquid mixtures comprising copper (I) halide used in the method of the present invention can be applied to both absorption and extraction processes, it can effectively remove acetylenic compounds from olefin in a more simple and economical way compared to the existing adsorption and membrane separation processes. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092759 | MOBILE SYSTEM FOR ELECTRON BEAM INTRAOPERATIVE RADIATION THERAPY - A mobile system for electron beam intraoperative radiation therapy uses a race-track microtron placed in a housing playing the role of the vacuum chamber, which is supported by a positioner providing its motion with six degrees of freedom with respect to a patient. The positioner is a part of a mobile mechanical structure which houses an ion pump, a microwave source, waveguide elements, a modulator with a pulse transformer and a cooler. The intraoperative radiation therapy system has a tube-like unit which couples the vacuum chamber with the mobile supporting mechanical structure and provides three functions, namely pumping out of the air from the vacuum chamber, feeding of the race-track microtron accelerating structure with radiofrequency power and rotation of the vacuum chamber with respect to the horizontal axis of the unit. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092760 | Device For Selecting A Beam Triggering Apparatus - The present invention is related to device for selecting one of several triggering apparatuses, which are simultaneously connectable to said device. The triggering apparatuses are arranged for producing each a triggering signal to enable/disable one or more components of a radiation treatment apparatus. The triggering signals depend on detected parameters. The device includes means for receiving triggering signals from the several triggering apparatuses, when all of the apparatuses are connected to the device, input means for selecting one of the triggering apparatuses, means for generating a universal triggering signal for the one or more components on the basis of said received triggering signal from the selected triggering apparatus, and means for sending the universal triggering signal to the one or more components. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092761 | Ventricular function assisting devices and methods of use thereof - Devices and methods are provided for assisting in the ventricular function of a treated heart, and tools for delivering and attaching elements of said devices to the wall of the heart. In general the devices are designed to assist in the ventricular function of the heart by utilizing elastic, and/or magnetic, elements designed to apply radially and/or tangentially directed forces over the wall of the heart, and/or alter the pressure conditions inside ventricle(s) of the heart. Embodiments may utilize restrictive elements which may optionally be attached over the heart during the implantation procedure, or at a later time, by changing the mode of operation of an implanted device. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092762 | IMAGING AND EVALUATING EMBRYOS, OOCYTES, AND STEM CELLS - Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos or pluripotent cells and/or the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in one or more embryos or pluripotent cells are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092763 | Methods for Embryo Characterization and Comparison - Disclosed herein are methods for determining which embryos from a group of embryos are most likely to implant and develop as desired. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more cells are biopsied from each of the embryos, and the genetic condition of those cells are determined. Within a group of embryos that each test positive for aneuploidy, the likelihood that each embryo contains euploid cells may be determined from the type of aneuploidy observed in the biopsied cells. This knowledge may be used to make a decision as to which embryos to transfer to a uterus. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, these determinations are made for the purpose of embryo selection in the context of in vitro fertilization. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092765 | TOOLS FOR USE IN ESOPHAGUS - Apparatus ( | 2011-04-21 |
20110092766 | TAPERED LUMENS FOR MULTI-LUMEN SLEEVES USED IN ENDOSCOPIC PROCEDURES - A multi-lumen sleeve for use with an endoscope shaft and at least one working surgical instrument. The shaft and surgical instruments have an end portion. The sleeve comprises a primary lumen having a free end and one or more secondary lumens which are joined to the primary lumen. Some or all of the lumens have free ends for connection to the end portion of a selected one of the shaft and the one or more working surgical instrument. Each of the free ends of the primary and secondary lumens is adapted to fit about and support the end portion of the shaft or the one or more working surgical instrument. This facilitates concerted motion and coupled articulation between the shaft and the one or more working surgical instrument. Systems employing this multi-lumen sleeve are described. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092767 | DELIVERY METHODS AND DEVICES FOR IMPLANTABLE BRONCHIAL ISOLATION DEVICES - Disclosed is a sizing device for sizing an inside diameter of a lung passageway. The device includes an elongate shaft configured for positioning in the lung passageway and a sizing element at the distal end of the shaft. The sizing element defines a range of transverse dimensions that correspond to a range of transverse dimensions suitable for use with a predetermined set of bronchial isolation devices. The device is used to determine the suitability of a bronchial isolation device for use in the lung passageway prior to using a separate delivery catheter to deliver the bronchial isolation device into the lung passageway. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092768 | DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IN-VIVO ANALYSIS - A device for in-vivo detection comprises a housing having an optical window and enclosing an imager that is configured to image the optical window. An external surface of the optical window has trypsin immobilized thereon, and may also be coated with a steric barrier protection, which may be polyethylene glycol (PEG). A trypsin-Alpha-1-antitrypsin complex formed on the window may have an affinity to a binding agent, which is tagged by a tag selected from a group consisting of a colorant, a fluorescent moiety, and a radioactive moiety. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092769 | ENDOSCOPE APPARATUS - An endoscope apparatus includes an insertion portion inserted into a body, an optical member arranged exposed from an outside surface at a distal end of the insertion portion, an objective optical system that condenses light impinged from the optical member, an electronic image pickup circuit that photoelectrically converts the light condensed by the objective optical system, a heat absorbing section arranged in the vicinity of the electronic image pickup circuit for absorbing heat generated from the electronic image pickup circuit, a heat transfer section extending toward the optical member side for transferring heat of the heat absorbing section, a heat radiation section arranged in the vicinity of the optical member for radiating heat transferred by the heat transfer section to the optical member, and a heat transfer member that is formed by patterning a metal foil on an insulating, flexible film member and includes the heat absorbing section, the heat transfer section and the heat radiation section. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092770 | ENDOSCOPIC INSERTION AID, ENDOSCOPIC SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF INSERTING INSERTION PORTION OF ENDOSCOPE INTO BODY CAVITY BY USE OF ENDOSCOPIC INSERTION AID - An endoscopic insertion aid includes a tube member, a pipeline and a plurality of balloons. The tube member allows an insertion section of an endoscope to be inserted therethrough, and guides the longitudinal movement of the insertion section. The pipeline is provided in the tube member, and communicates with a supply/discharge unit to supply a fluid to or discharge the fluid from the distal end of the tube member. The balloons are disposed on the outer periphery of the distal end of the tube member longitudinally along the tube member, communicate with the pipeline, and inflate/deflate in accordance with the supply/discharge of the fluid via the pipeline. The balloon disposed on the distal side of the tube member is inflated to have an outside diameter larger than that of the balloon disposed closer to the proximal side than the balloon disposed on the distal side when the balloons are inflated. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092771 | SURGICAL HEAD CLAMP - The invention relates generally to apparatus and devices for stereotactic surgery, computer aided surgery and other similar medical procedures. More particularly, a clamping device for firm attachment to a body part during surgery and for firmly and precisely positioning and orienting medical instruments attached to the clamping device is disclosed. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092772 | ENDOSCOPIC INSTUMENT WITH AN LED ILLUMINATION MODULE - An endoscopic instrument is provided with an LED illumination module having at least one LED arranged at the distal end of the instrument and having an electrical connection lead attached to this LED. The connection lead is a coaxial cable, which extends from the distal end to the proximal end of the instrument, and is designed for leading away the waste heat produced by the LED. At least one electrical conductor of the coaxial cable is connected to the LED in a heat-conducting manner. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092773 | VIDEO LARYNGOSCOPE PROVIDING SUCTION - A video laryngoscope is provided that includes a body having a handle portion and a blade portion. The blade portion terminates in a tip and defines at least one aperture formed proximal to the tip. The blade portion is dimensioned for oral insertion into a subject buccal cavity. A fiber optic light source terminates within the blade portion and upon light source activation illuminates an area including the tip. A video system is coupled to the body and relays imagery of the tip and surrounding area to a video monitor. A channel extending through the body provides fluid communication to the aperture and an external source of suction. As a result, an operator is capable of visualizing debris and/or obstructions in a subject airway and is able to observe and guide the scope for suction removal. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092774 | Laryngoscope blade - An improved blade for a laryngoscope having a handle, the blade having an elongated body having a central axis, and having a distal tip symmetric about the central axis and having any one of a variety of shapes, including having outer rounded lobes, being generally rectangular, or having a spoon shape; a downwardly convex arcuate central portion including a first flange and a second flange. Each flange has a distal flange tip and a proximal base, the first flange tip being a mirror image of the second flange about the central axis. The outer edge of the base of the first flange is convex and the outer edge of the base of the second flange is concave with respect to the central axis. A light attachment area is provided along the central axis with a bifurcated light. The improvement provides a pair of support structures extending coaxially on either side of a central groove. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092775 | Inflatable surgical retractor - For minimally invasive surgical applications, an expandable surgical retractor is inserted in a surgical corridor and expanded to a desired size and shape. Cooling allows the retractor to maintain the expanded characteristic. Following surgery, the retractor can be removed in a manner that minimizes bleeding and tissue damage. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092776 | MEDICAL MANIPULATOR - A medical manipulator and a cleaning method therefor are provided. The medical manipulator includes an operation command unit equipped with a motor, and a working unit, which is detachable with respect to the operation command unit. A connector of the working unit is connected to the operation command unit, and includes pulleys that engage with the motor, the connector serving to rotatably retain the pulleys therein. The connector has an elongate shape extending in the longitudinal direction of a connecting shaft, and a first cleaning hole is arranged in an end portion of the connector that is opposite to a side on which the connecting shaft is connected. A second cleaning hole opens into an interior cavity, in the vicinity of an end portion on the side where the connecting shaft is connected. The end portions are shaped substantially hemispherically. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092777 | REMOTE TISSUE RETRACTION DEVICE - A medical device for managing tissue in an organ, such as the stomach, for retracting or positioning tissue and related organs to allow certain regions of the stomach to be acquired for a gastroplasty procedure. The medical device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, and a tissue treatment device attached to the distal end of the elongated body. The tissue treatment device includes a first jaw opposite a second jaw, and each jaw is adapted to acquire tissue. A retractor is disposed along the tissue treatment device and adapted to be moveable from a delivery position to a retraction position to move or manage the tissue of the stomach. The medical device also includes a collapsible barrier disposed between the first and second jaws of the tissue treatment device to direct tissue into the first and second jaws separately. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092778 | WOUND RETRACTOR SYSTEM - A wound retractor system comprises a retractor having a distal ring | 2011-04-21 |
20110092779 | Wearable Health Monitoring System - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed which relate to remotely monitoring the health of an individual. The individual wears a health monitoring device, with an attached strap, capable of sensing characteristics of the individual. These characteristics may include voice level and tone, movements, blood pressure, temperature, etc. The device allows individuals to constantly monitor their health without having to physically visit a doctor or other health care professional. Wireless communication, for instance with an Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) set-top box, allows measurements to be made and evaluated by a ‘computerized’ healthcare service provider. For a more accurate evaluation, measurements are sent over the INTERNET to a service. The device communicates with services in order to diagnose the individual based upon the characteristics. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092780 | BIOSENSOR MODULE WITH AUTOMATIC POWER ON CAPABILITY - A biosensor is described which can obtain physiological and accelerometer data from an individual. The biosensor may collect electrodermal activity, accelerometer readings, skin temperature, and other information. Most of the biosensor may be powered off when it is not attached to a person. Based on electrodermal activity the biosensor may automatically turn on when the biosensor comes in contact with an individual. The biosensor may rapidly power up once placed on a person even being fully functional within one second of being attached. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092781 | ENERGETIC MODULATION OF NERVES - In some examples, nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some examples, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some examples, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents or the agents are enhanced by the energy sources. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092782 | MULTIFUNCTIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR MEASURING VITAL DATA, PROVIDED WITH A CENTRALISED DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM - The invention relates to multifunctional equipment intended for measuring the vital data of a user, such as weight, height, body fat index and blood pressure. For this purpose, the equipment includes a platform for supporting the user, a device for emitting an ultrasonic beam and a receiver for receiving the reflected beam, a device for measuring blood pressure, a keyboard and screens for providing help and displaying the results, as well as payment means. The equipment also includes a digital fingerprint reader intended for the unequivocal identification of a user, together with an internal data processing device provided with inlet/outlet ports for connecting same to a computer associated with the equipment or to a remote computer forming a central database which can be accessed both from the first computer associated with the equipment and from other external computers over the Internet. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092783 | IN VIVO MICRO-INVASIVE INVESTIGATION DEVICE INCLUDING A METAL GUIDE - The invention relates to an analysis device, wherein said system includes at least one metal guide at one end of which is provided at least one series of pits to which are directly coupled reagents specific to a substrate, said end being a perforating one, while the other end is intended for controlling said guide and is optionally associated with a suction system. The guide may be inserted into a protection system that is removable at the level of the functionalised end, up to the micro-analysis and/or micro-sampling site, and/or into a medical instrument having an inner channel in which said guide may slide. The present invention also relates to the use of such a device for making a tool for diagnosing cancer, an inflammation, an infection, a neurodegenerative disease or a graft rejection in a patient, preferably by transparietal delivery. The invention further relates to a method for the ex vivo analysis of a substrate using such a device. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092784 | ADJUSTABLE CONNECTOR AND DEAD SPACE REDUCTION - Methods and systems for determining the concentration of one or more analytes from a sample such as blood or plasma are described. The systems described herein can be configured to withdraw a certain volume of sample from a source of bodily fluid, direct a first portion of the withdrawn sample to an analyte monitoring system and return a second portion of the sample to the patient. The analyte monitoring system can be connected to the source of bodily fluid via a connector that is configured to maintain uniform velocity across the connector and reduce the dead space volume. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092785 | Selection of Ensemble Averaging Weights for a Pulse Oximeter Based on Signal Quality Metrics - A pulse oximeter system is presently disclosed. The pulse oximeter system includes a processor and circuitry. The processor and circuitry are configured to receive light waveforms from a sensor, determine at least one signal quality metric for the light waveforms, calculate at least one weight using a continuously variable weighting function based on the at least one signal quality metric, and ensemble average the light waveforms using the at least one calculated weight. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092786 | DEVICE FOR THE ANALYSIS OF URINE - A device for the analysis of urine designed to be connected in series to a catheter ( | 2011-04-21 |
20110092787 | ENDOCAPSULE - An endocapsule has a measurement chamber therein containing a sensor that detects at least one metabolic product of a specific bacterium in a hollow organ of a human or animal gastrointestinal tract. The endocapsule is introduced into the hollow organ wherein detection of the at least one metabolic product takes place. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092788 | Systems And Methods For Providing Guidance In Administration Of A Medicine - A method of providing guidance using a portable hand-held electronic device in administration of a medicine by a patient is provided. The method includes acquiring image data of a first container of a first medicine prescribed to the patient and acquiring image data of a second container of a second medicine prescribed to the patient. The second container is different visually from the first container. The image data of the first container and the second container is stored in memory of the electronic device. On the portable hand-held electronic device, an instruction is processed to administer at least one of the first medicine and the second medicine to the patient. The stored image data is retrieved from memory corresponding to the at least one of the first medicine and the second medicine to be administered in the instruction. The retrieved image data is displayed on a display of the electronic device. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092789 | MINIATURE CIRCULAR MAPPING CATHETER - A cardiac ablation device, including a catheter and an expandable ablation element incorporating one or more balloons at the distal end of the catheter, has a continuous passageway extending through it from the proximal end of the catheter to the distal side of the expandable ablation element. A probe carrying electrodes is introduced through this passageway and deploys, under the influence of its own resilience, to a structure incorporating a loop which is automatically aligned with the axis of the expandable ablation device, so that minimal manipulation is required to place the probe. The probe may have an atraumatic tip with a ball formed at the leading edge. The atraumatic tip prevents any tissue damage such as perforation of heart wall. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092790 | BIOSENSOR MODULE WITH LEADLESS CONTACTS - A biosensor is described which can obtain physiological data from an individual. The biosensor may collect electrodermal activity, skin temperature, and other information. The biosensor may be attached to the body through the use of a garment which may be fastened in multiple locations on the human body. The biosensor has replaceable electrodes which may be interchanged. The electrodes contact the body without having any wires or leads external to the sensor. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092791 | ACCURACY BIOSENSOR THROUGH PRESSURE COMPENSATION - A biosensor is described which can obtain physiological data from an individual. The biosensor may collect electrodermal activity, skin temperature, and other information. The biosensor may be attached to the body through the use of a garment which may be fastened in multiple locations on the human body. The biosensor includes compensation for electrodermal activity measurements based on the amount of pressure applied to the electrodes that are in contact with the skin. As pressure is increased the electrodermal activity values typically increase. By compensating for the influence that pressure changes have on electrodermal activity, more accurate analysis of physiology and therefore mental state analysis may be performed. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092792 | MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM AND PATIENT POSITIONING SYSTEM INCLUDING A MOVABLE TRANSPORT BELT - A medical imaging system for imaging a region of interest (ROI) in a patient. The imaging system includes an imaging modality unit having a field of view (FOV) and an examination platform. The examination platform has a pair of opposite ends and a platform surface extending therebetween along an examination axis. The platform surface extends into the FOV. The imaging system also includes a patient transport belt that is supported by the examination platform and extends along the platform surface between the ends of the examination platform. The imaging system also includes a motor that is operatively coupled to and configured to move the transport belt along the platform surface in a direction along the examination axis. The motor moves the transport belt so that a predetermined portion of the transport belt is within the FOV. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092793 | DYNAMIC TRACKING OF MOVING TARGETS - Treatment targets such as tumors or lesions, located within an anatomical region that undergoes motion (which may be periodic with cycle P), are dynamically tracked. A 4D mathematical model is established for the non-rigid motion and deformation of the anatomical region, from a set of CT or other 3D images. The 4D mathematical model relates the 3D locations of part(s) of the anatomical region with the targets being tracked, as a function of the position in time within P. Using fiducial-less non-rigid image registration between pre-operative DRRs and intra-operative x-ray images, the absolute position of the target and/or other part(s) of the anatomical region is determined. The cycle P is determined using motion sensors such as surface markers. The radiation beams are delivered using: 1) the results of non-rigid image registration; 2) the 4D model; and 3) the position in time within P. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092794 | AUTOMATED SURFACE-BASED ANATOMICAL ANALYSIS BASED ON ATLAS-BASED SEGMENTATION OF MEDICAL IMAGING - A non-invasive imaging system, including: a non-invasive imaging scanner; a signal processing unit in communication with the imaging scanner to receive an imaging signal from a subject under observation; and a data storage unit in communication with the signal processing unit, wherein the data storage unit stores template data corresponding to a tissue region of the subject, and wherein the signal processing unit is adapted to generate a surface map to encode a property of a subvolume of the tissue region using the template data. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092795 | Methods and Systems for Monitoring Respiratory Data - This invention provides methods and systems for non-invasively determining the presence (and amount) or absence of dynamic hyperinflation in a subject. The invention is based on a novel combination of respiratory parameters that can be measured in a way that is non-invasive and unobtrusive to the subject. Dynamic hyperinflation is often a significant factor in the quality of life of patients suffering from a variety of obstructive pulmonary diseases, and this invention permits simple, routine tracking and management of dynamic hyperinflation in affected patients. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092796 | METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING CMT1A AND CMT2A BY MRI - Disclosed is a method for diagnosing Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease. More specifically, disclosed is a method for diagnosing a subtype of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1, (i.e., CMT1A) and a subtype of the disease type 2 (i.e., CMT2A) by evaluating fatty infiltration behaviors in respective compartments of proximal lower extremity muscles via comparison and analysis of MRI on the proximal lower extremities. Further disclosed is a method for diagnosing CMT1A and CMT2A, by analyzing fatty infiltration levels between respective compartments by MRI examination on distal lower extremity muscles. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092797 | MOTION-SENSITIZED DRIVEN EQUILIBRIUM BLOOD-SUPPRESSION SEQUENCE FOR VESSEL WALL IMAGING - An improved motion-sensitization driven equilibrium (iMSDE) sequence based upon an MLEV-4 sequence is used for black-blood vessel wall imaging. The MSDE pulse pattern that is used us a preparation sequence for other procedures employed to acquire images has been modified to produce the iMSDE sequence by the addition of a second 180 degree refocusing pulse and two motion sensitization gradients. The iMSDE sequence thus includes a group of four radio frequency (RF) pulses, as well as additional magnetic gradient pulses that are not included in the conventional MSDE sequence. Computer simulations indicate that this new pulse sequence is substantially more immune to local B1 inhomogeneity than conventional sequences. In vivo experiments have demonstrated significant signal improvement at high first-order moments (m | 2011-04-21 |
20110092798 | METHOD FOR MAGNETIC RESONANCE ELASTOGRAPHY INVERSION USING A FINITE MEDIUM MODEL - A method for magnetic resonance elastography (“MRE”) is described, in which an MRE inversion that accounts for waves propagating in a finite, bounded media is employed. A vibratory motion is induced in a subject and MRE is performed to measure one or more components of the resulting displacement produced in the subject. This displacement data is subsequently filtered to provide a more accurate and computationally efficient method of inversion. Wave equations based on the geometry of the bounded media are then utilized to calculate the material properties of the subject. Such a method allows for the performance of MRE on tissues such as the heart, eye, bladder, and prostate with more accurate results. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092799 | Active implant medical device (AMID) and medical imaging scanner communications involving patient-specific AIMD configuration - A communications link between an active implanted medical device (AIMD) and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine enables an information exchange including data relating to a configuration of a lead of the AIMD as installed in the patient and/or an operational parameter limit of the MRI machine determined from the data. The data relating to the configuration of the lead in the patient may include a size and/or position of an effective loop area enclosed by the lead. The data relating to the configuration of the lead in the patient may include data corresponding to a pictorial representation, such as an x-ray of the patient having the AIMD, of the lead and at least part of the patient's body. An operation of the MRI machine may be stopped or a warning/alarm initiated if the operational parameter limit (e.g., maximum power limit of a gradient or RF field) determined from the data relating to the configuration of the lead in the patient is exceeded. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092800 | Methods for modifying electrical currents in neuronal circuits - A method for modifying neuronal activity in a subject with focused ultrasound pulses (“FUP”) is provided. Such a methods is applicable for research, treatment, and diagnosis of psychiatric, neurological, and neuroendocrine disorders whose biological mechanisms include neuronal circuits in the brain. The application of focused ultrasound pulses is generally via multiple ultrasound transducers that are housed in a cap worn by the subject. The application of FUP at different tone burst duration, total sonication duration, and pulse repetition frequency settings results in either the inducement of either an increase or decrease in neuronal activity. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092801 | METHOD FOR OBTAINING MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGE DATA USING A MULTI-ECHO MR SEQUENCE WITH IMPROVED SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO OF THE PHASE INFORMATION - In a method and magnetic resonance (MR) system to create an MR magnitude image data set and a phase image data set of an examination subject, first echo signals in a first raw MR data set are detected after a first echo time TE | 2011-04-21 |
20110092802 | Active implant communications with medical imaging scanner - A bi-directional communications link between an active implanted medical device (AIMD) and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine enables information to be exchanged to determine whether an operational mode of the AIMD and MRI is acceptable. For example, the bi-directional communications link enables information to be exchanged to determine whether the AIMD and MRI machine are acceptably operating within at least one operational limit. An operation of the MRI machine may be permitted if the operation is acceptably within the operational limit and may be stopped if not. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092803 | NON-INVASIVE DENTAL BASED FIDUCIAL ARRAY - The invention relates generally to apparatus and devices for neuronavigation. A non-invasive dental based fiducial array is disclosed. The fiducial array has a base support member, one or more removable and repositionable marker bases supported by the base support member and a stopper spaced from and supported by the base support member that engages a part of the head of a patient or an animal and cooperates with the base support member to immobilize the fiducial array relative to a location of the head, such as maxillary teeth. An anchoring site is formed on the base support member to accept a custom made dental impression to precisely position the base support member relative to the location of the head. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092804 | Patient-Specific Pre-Operative Planning - A method for pre-operative orthopedic planning includes obtaining only a high-resolution knee-joint scan of a patient, determining hip rotation center and ankle rotation center from anthropometric data based on personal data of the patient, and determining a mechanical axis of the knee joint based on the anthropometric data. The method also includes preparing at least a two-dimensional image model of the knee joint using the knee-joint scan and the determined mechanical axis, and preparing a pre-operative surgical plan based on the image of the knee joint. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092805 | DIGITAL DRUG DELIVERY - For delivery of a chemical to a target region of a subject's brain, an apparatus comprising a storage medium on which is stored digital representations of subject-specific selective visual stimuli that, when viewed, selectively stimulate blood flow to the target area of the brain; and an electronic display device coupled thereto and configured for converting the stored digital representations to images viewable by the subject; wherein the one or more selective visual stimuli were determined by exposing the subject to a plurality of potential stimuli; measuring the blood flow response to multiple regions of the brain, including the target area and one or more non-target areas; comparing the blood flow responses to the potential stimuli, and selecting as selective stimuli potential stimuli that result in relatively more blood flow to the target area and relatively less blood flow one or more non-target areas. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092806 | Compounds Comprising a Biological Target Recognizing Part, Coupled to a Signal Part Capable of Complexing Gallium - The invention concerns compounds comprising a biological target recognizing part, coupled to a signal part capable of complexing gallium. The invention also concerns methods for obtaining said compounds, screening methods capable of selecting such compounds for chemical synthesis thereof and their diagnostic applications, in particular in PET, PET/IRM, PET CT imaging. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092807 | Specimen positioning system for imaging machines - An animal holder is provided with a specialized coupling that is releasably mountable to a number of different imaging machines such as X-ray, CAT, MRI and PET machines. Composite images created from combining images from such different machines are particularly clear due to the predetermined alignment of the animal holder within the center of the field of view of each machine. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092808 | METHOD FOR ACQUIRING HIGH DENSITY MAPPING DATA WITH A CATHETER GUIDANCE SYSTEM - The invention is a method of rotating a catheter while it is manually guided in order to increase the volume of space it passes through during a geometric mapping procedure as to provide a higher and more uniform location data point cloud density in a volumetric mapping system. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092809 | CARDIAC COORDINATE SYSTEM FOR MOTION ANALYSIS - An exemplary method includes accessing cardiac information acquired via a catheter located at various positions in a venous network of a heart of a patient wherein the cardiac information comprises position information with respect to time for one or more electrodes of the catheter; performing a principal component analysis on at least some of the position information; and selecting at least one component of the principal component analysis to represent an axis of a cardiac coordinate system. Various other methods, devices, systems, etc., are also disclosed. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092810 | NESTED CANNULAE FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY - The present disclosure provides for systems and methods for Nested Cannula configuration. Nested Cannula systems include a plurality of telescoping, pre-shaped tubes configured and dimensioned to reach target locations within a particular anatomical region. A three dimensional image is read for the particular anatomical region and structure in question. A series of arcs are generated between a point of the anatomical region and a target location, ensuring collision-free motion for each of the tubes at each specific diameter. The target location is determined based upon the medical procedure being performed and the location and orientation in six degrees of freedom of the anatomical structure in question. The series of arcs are used to configure and dimension the plurality of tubes. The Nested Cannula system is adapted to reach relatively small and complex target locations, such as to deliver photodynamic therapy, balloon angioplasty or BronchoAlveolar Lavage. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092811 | SYRINGE NEEDLE GUIDING APPARATUS - Provided is a syringe needle guiding apparatus | 2011-04-21 |
20110092812 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CREATING THREE-DIMENSIONAL IMAGES USING TOMOSYNTHETIC COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY - A system for constructing image slices through a selected object, the system comprising an identifiable fiducial reference in a fixed position relative to the selected object, wherein the fiducial reference comprises at least two identifiable reference markers. A source of radiation is provided for irradiating the selected object and the fiducial reference to form a projected image of the selected object and the fiducial reference which is recorded by a recording medium. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092813 | MULTI-MODE INTERNAL IMAGING - The invention described herein provides systems and methods for multi-modal imaging with light and a second form of imaging. Light imaging involves the capture of low intensity light from a light-emitting object. A camera obtains a two-dimensional spatial distribution of the light emitted from the surface of the subject. Software operated by a computer in communication with the camera may then convert two-dimensional spatial distribution data from one or more images into a three-dimensional spatial representation. The second imaging mode may include any imaging technique that compliments light imaging. Examples include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computer topography (CT). An object handling system moves the object to be imaged between the light imaging system and the second imaging system, and is configured to interface with each system. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092814 | COMBINED RADIATION THERAPY/PET APPARATUS - A combined radiation therapy/PET apparatus includes: an open PET device having multi-ring detector rings that are opposed to each other in the direction of the body axis so as to leave a gap therebetween; and a radiation therapy apparatus for performing radiation therapy through the gap. When imaging the condition of an affected area and a treatment beam for monitoring in radiation therapy of irradiating the affected area with X-rays, gamma rays, or particle beams, the apparatus covers a region of interest in the irradiation field of the radiation therapy with the field-of-view of the open PET device, thereby making possible the positioning of the irradiation field and treatment monitoring using PET images. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092815 | MARKER OR FILLER FORMING FLUID - A system for at least partially filling and marking a cavity at a site within a patient's body includes a marker delivery device having a chamber configured to contain a marking substance and having a mechanism configured to expel the marking substance. A quantity of the marking substance is contained within the chamber of the marker delivery device. The marking substance is configured to at least partially fill the cavity and form therein a porous bioabsorbable body. A delivery tube is coupled in fluid communication with the chamber of the marker delivery device. The delivery tube has a distal end with a discharge port through which the marking substance is expelled. A releasable remotely detectable distal tip is coupled to the distal end of the delivery tube and is configured to be released to remain within the porous bioabsorbable body within the cavity upon the formation thereof. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092816 | COMBINED CATHETER FOR ANGIOGRAPHY - It is a specially conceived catheter to perform a coronary catheterization by the femoral route with a prior punction and placing of 2 mm introductors, using the “Judkins” catheter curves but without the need of first advancing the JL catheter and then the JR. It comprises a “Judkins” JR right coronary catheter, which contains in its interior a “Judkins” JL left coronary catheter that distally protrudes, disposing the section, defining the primary and secondary curves projecting from the distal end of the JR catheter of the right coronary, which is tapered and blunt in its own distal end section. It is emphasized that the JR catheter has incorporated a haemostatic valve hand in hand with its proximal end. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092817 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF ULTRASOUND SCATTERER CHARACTERIZATION - A method for characterizing ultrasound scatterers in a medium comprising providing ultrasound data representing a region of interest comprising a plurality of scatterers in a medium, the plurality of scatterers including clusters of scatterer sub-units, the scatterers having a physical property value to be estimated and the scatterer sub-units having at least one known physical parameter value; modelling the ultrasound data using an at least second order function of a spatial organization parameter defining the spatial organization of the scatterers; and estimating the physical property value of the scatterers from the modelled ultrasound data and the at least one known physical parameter of the sub-units by a regression of the spatial organization parameter as a function of frequency. A system for characterizing ultrasound scatterers is also included. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092818 | ULTRASONOMETER FOR BONE ASSESSMENT IN INFANTS - An ultrasonometer for bone assessment in infants includes a focusing acoustic wave transducer, an acoustic wave detector, and an elongated chamber filled with an acoustically-coupling fluid. The chamber is equipped with an acoustically-transparent flexible membrane facing the extremity of the infant. Supporting means such as a gliding rod is adapted to retain at least one of the transducer or the detector inside the chamber facing the subject. Supporting means is further adapted to move the transducer or detector along the chamber to perform the bone scanning without repositioning of the probe. A focused ultrasound transducer is adapted to remotely generate an acoustic wave in the bone by acoustic radiation force. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092819 | ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS AND ULTRASOINC DATA ACQUISITION METHOD - According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe, a transmission/reception unit, an echo signal storage unit, a reception delay addition processing unit, a Doppler signal generating unit, and a focus position decision unit. The echo signal storage unit stores a plurality of echo signals obtained by the transmission/reception unit. The reception delay addition processing unit generates a plurality of reception signals corresponding to a plurality of reception focus positions by performing delay addition of the plurality of stored echo signals. The Doppler signal generating unit generates a plurality of Doppler signals corresponding to the plurality of reception focus positions from the generated reception signals. The focus position decision unit performs selection of a Doppler signal from the plurality of generated Doppler signals based on a blood flow characteristic and decides a reception focus position corresponding to the selected Doppler signal. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092820 | PROBE OF ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A probe of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and a method of controlling the same are disclosed. The probe includes a transducer movably disposed inside a housing of the probe, a detector detecting movement of the probe, and a drive unit controlling operation of the transducer in response to an output from the detector. Acceleration of the probe is measured to adjust intensity of a holding current in order to suppress operation of the transducer depending on the acceleration of the probe, so that, if there is no movement of the probe, a low holding current is output to increase a transmission current by suppressing heat generation, thereby improving image quality. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092821 | DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF THE SKIN WITHOUT CONTACT WITH THE MEASUREMENT ZONE - The invention relates to a device for measuring the mechanical properties of the skin which is free from all parameters interfering with measurement. The device comprises: a) a pneumatic assembly ( | 2011-04-21 |
20110092822 | Temporal Artery Temperature Detector - Body temperature measurements are obtained by scanning a thermal radiation sensor across the side of the forehead over the temporal artery. A peak temperature measurement is processed to compute an internal temperature of the body as a function of ambient temperature and the sensed surface temperature. The function includes a weighted difference of surface temperature and ambient temperature, the weighting being varied with target temperature through a minimum in the range of 96° F. and 100° F. The radiation sensor views the target surface through an emissivity compensating cup which is spaced from the skin by a circular lip of low thermal conductivity. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092823 | System and Method for Identifying Tissue Using Low-Coherence Interferometry - An apparatus for needle biopsy with real time tissue differentiation using one dimensional interferometric ranging imaging, comprising a biopsy device having a barrel and a needle, an optical fiber inserted in the needle, and a fiber optic imaging system connected to the optical fiber. The imaging system obtains images and compares the optical properties and patterns to a database of normalized tissue sample images to determine different tissue types. The physician performing the biopsy obtains feedback via a feedback unit associated with the biopsy device and which is connected to the imaging system. The feedback unit can provide visual, audible or vibratory feedback as to tissue type encountered when the needle is inserted toward the target tissue. The feedback unit can be programmed for different biopsy procedures so that the user can actuate a button to select a display or other feedback mechanism for the desired procedure and anticipated tissue to be encountered. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092824 | MONITORING A VITAL PARAMETER OF A PATIENT WITH "IN-SITU" MODULATION SCHEME TO AVOID INTERFERENCE - The invention relates to a method of monitoring a vital parameter of a patient by measuringattenuation of light emitted onto tissue of the patient, comprising the following steps: modulating the light with a modulation frequency or/and a modulation code; emitting the modulated light onto the tissue of the patient; collecting lightwhich is transmitted through the tissue or/and which is reflected from the tissue; demodulating the collected light; analyzing the demodulated collected light with regard to interference with ambient light; determining amodulation frequency or/and a modulation code for which interference with the ambient light is minimized or falls under a predefined threshold; and setting the modulation frequency or/and the modulation code for modulating the light according to the determined modulation frequency or/and a modulation code for which interference with the ambient light is minimized or falls under a predefined threshold. In this way a versatile and reliable possibility of monitoring a vital parameter of a patient with a high signal-to-interference ratio is provided. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092825 | METHOD FOR REMOTE MEDICAL CONSULTATION AND CARE - A method for remote medical consulting includes collecting diagnostic data using at least one wearable device contoured to at least a portion of a person's hand, transmitting the diagnostic data to a remote location, transmitting audio data and video images of the patient to the remote location, and communicating diagnosis and/or treatment information to the patient based at least in part on the diagnostic data. The treatment information may include a prescription electronically transmitted to the patient or a pharmacy. The method includes billing of the patient via credit or debit card, bank account, or a third party, such as an insurance company. The diagnostic data as well as the audio and video data may be transmitted wirelessly via cellular or satellite communication networks and/or using a wide area computer network such as the internet. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092826 | System and method for measuring ECG and breath signals by using two polar electrodes - A system for measuring ECG and breath signals by using two polar electrodes includes a first polar electrode, a second polar electrode and a breath and ECG signals measuring device. The breath and ECG signals measuring device includes a level regulator, a square wave generator, a breath signal process module and an ECG signal process module. The first and second polar electrodes are attached on the body of a person under test to import square wave signal and receive the first and second measuring signals. The level regulator adjusts the voltage reference of the first and second measuring signals. The breath signal process module and the ECG signal process module process and generate a breath signal and an ECG signal respectively. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092827 | BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING BLOOD PRESSURE THEREOF - A blood pressure monitor and a method for calculating blood pressure thereof are revealed. The blood pressure monitor includes a cuff, an air pump, an air escape valve, a pressure sensor, a processing circuit, and an arithmetic circuit. The cuff is arranged a a body to be detected while and the air pump inflates the cuff and the air escape valve is for releasing air from the cuff. The pressure sensor is disposed on the cuff for detecting cuff pressure to generate analog pressures sensing signals. The processing circuit processes the analog pressure sensing signals and generates digital pressure sensing signals. A slope of each digital pressure sensing signal is calculated by the arithmetic circuit. A pressure value of the digital pressure sensing signal corresponding to a maximum slope is an average blood pressure. Then find a second derivative of each digital pressure sensing signal. A pressure value of the digital pressure sensing signal corresponding to a largest maximum value of the second derivative is systolic pressure while a pressure value of the digital pressure sensing signal corresponding to a smallest minimum value of the second derivative is diastolic pressure. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092828 | Fluid Delivery System, Fluid Path Set, and Pressure Isolation Mechanism with Hemodynamic Pressure Dampening Correction - The fluid delivery system includes a pressurizing device for delivering injection fluid under pressure, a low pressure fluid delivery system, and a pressure isolation mechanism. The pressure isolation mechanism includes a first lumen associated with the pressurizing device, a second lumen associated with the low pressure fluid delivery system, and a pressure isolation port. The first valve is in a normally open position permitting fluid communication between the first lumen and the second lumen and movable to a closed position when fluid pressure in the first lumen reaches a predetermined pressure level. The first valve isolates the pressure isolation port from the first lumen in the closed position. A second valve is associated with the second lumen and regulates fluid flow through the second lumen. The second valve may be a disk valve defining one or more passageways in the form of slits through the body of the disk valve. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092829 | BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR AND METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD VESSEL HARDENING - A blood pressure monitor and a method for detecting vascular sclerosis thereof are revealed. The blood pressure monitor includes a cuff, an air pump, an air escape valve, a pressure sensor, a processing circuit, and an arithmetic circuit. The cuff is arranged at a body to be detected and the air pump inflates the cuff. The air escape valve is for releasing air from the cuff while the pressure sensor arranged at the cuff measures a cuff pressure to generate an analog pressure sensing signal. The processing circuit processes the pressure sensing analog signal and generates a digital pressure sensing signal. Then a systolic pressure and a diastolic pressure of the detected body are calculated according to the digital pressure sensing signal. The degree of blood vessel hardening is checked according to a systolic area of the calculated systolic pressure and a diastolic area of the calculated diastolic pressure. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092830 | METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC ERROR DETECTION IN PRESSURE MEASUREMENT AND AN ELECTRONIC SPHYGMOMANOMETER - This invention discloses a method for automatic error detection in pressure measurement and an electronic sphygmomanometer using the method. The electronic sphygmomanometer comprises two pressure sensing circuits connected to a MPU. The first pressure sensing circuit is normally-on in pressure measurement. The second pressure sensing circuit is normally-off in pressure measurement. Said normally-off pressure sensing circuit is periodically turned on in an automatic manner to measure the same pressure as the normally-on pressure sensing circuit is used to measure. Said MPU computes the difference between the pressures obtained from the two pressure sensing circuits. When the difference is greater than a given error limit, calibration error warning will be given. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092831 | NON INVASIVE METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING LIGHT-SLEEP AND DEEP-SLEEP STAGES - A method and apparatus for detecting and distinguishing epochs of deep-sleep from epochs of light-sleep of a subject by sensing by a peripheral pulse signal related to the systemic circulation of the subject, preferably a peripheral arterial tone (PAT) sensor for sensing pulsatile arterial volume changes in a digit (e.g., a finger) of the subject reflecting sympathetic tone variations; analyzing the sensed pulse signals for determining therefrom a number of features, particularly seven specific variables in each of two time periods; and utilizing the results of the analysis for determining whether the epoch detected is a light-sleep epoch or a deep-sleep epoch. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092832 | SELF-LUMINOUS SENSOR DEVICE - A light-emitting sensor device is provided with: a substrate ( | 2011-04-21 |
20110092833 | ECG Lead System - An ECG lead system for use with a plurality of unique diverse ECG floor monitors for when a patient is substantially immobile and/or a plurality of unique diverse ECG telemetry monitors, is provided. The ECG lead system includes a plurality of unique adapters, wherein each adapter includes an input receptacle configured for selective electrical connection with a device connector of an ECG lead set assembly; and at least one unique monitor plug electrically connected to the input receptacle. Each monitor plug is configured to selectively electrically connect to a corresponding receptacle of a respective unique diverse ECG floor monitor or unique diverse ECG telemetry monitor. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092834 | ANALOGUE SIGNAL PROCESSORS - An analogue signal processor (ASP) application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) is disclosed. The ACIS can be used for remotely monitoring ECG signals of a subject that has reduced power consumption. In one aspect, the ASIC performs the functions of: ECG signal extraction with high resolution using ECG readout channel, feature extraction using a band-power extraction channel, adaptive sampling the ECG signals using an adaptive sampling analogue-to-digital converter, and impedance monitoring for signal integrity using an impedance monitoring channel. These functions enable the development of wireless ECG monitoring systems that have significantly lower power consumption but are more efficient that predecessor systems. In one embodiment, the ASP ASIC consumes 30 μW from a 2V supply with compression provided by adaptive sampling providing large reductions in power consumption of a wireless ECG monitoring system of which the ASP ASIC forms a part. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092835 | WIRELESS ECG SYSTEM - A wireless monitoring system and, more particularly, a wireless monitoring system for detecting and transmitting physiological data. The present invention detects physiological data relating to a patient's cardiac activity and respiration rate and transmits the data to a remote base station via telemetry. The base station processes the data so that the data can be display by an ECG monitor. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092836 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING THE CORONARY SINUS VEIN BRANCH ACCESSED BY A CORONARY SINUS LEAD - Systems and methods for determining the coronary sinus vein branch location of a left ventricle electrode are disclosed. The systems and methods involve detecting the occurrence of electrical events within the patient's heart including sensing one or more of the electrical events with the electrode and then analyzing the electrical events to determine the electrode's position. The determination of electrode position may be used to automatically adjust operating parameters of a VRT device. Furthermore, the determination of electrode position may be made in real-time during installation of the electrode and a visual indication of the electrode position may be provided on a display screen. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092837 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MONITORING FETUS IN MATERNAL BODY - An apparatus for monitoring fetal positions and fetal movements is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of sensors, a signal pre-processor, a signal post-processor, and a fetal position judging processor. The sensors are attached on the abdomen of a maternal body to provide at least three measuring leads. The signal pre-processor receives a plurality of sensing signals from the sensors, and the signal pre-processor reduces noises in the sensing signals and amplifies the sensing signals to output a plurality of characteristic sensing signals. The signal post-processor receives the characteristic sensing signals from the signal pre-processor and separates out a plurality of fetal electrocardiograms (FECGs) corresponding to the leads. The fetal position judging processor analyzes the FECGs to obtain a characteristic waveform for each of the FECGs or directly calculates a fetal heart axis vector with respect to a front-side coordinate of the maternal body according to the FECGs. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092838 | QT INTERVAL MONITORING SYSTEM WITH ALARMS AND TRENDING - An ECG monitoring system continuously monitors a patient's ECG waveform and periodically identifies the patient's QT interval. QT interval values are averaged over time and a corrected interval value QTc and a change in QTc relative to a baseline, dQTc, are periodically produced. An alarm is responsive to updated QT interval values and issues an alarm whenever a selected QT value exceeds an alarm limit. The periodically produced QT interval values are stored and a trend display may be produced showing changes in the QT interval information over different periods of time. The trend display may selectively display the trend information either graphically or in tabular form. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092839 | MASK AND METHOD FOR USE IN RESPIRATORY MONITORING AND DIAGNOSTICS - Disclosed herein is a mask to be worn by a subject on its face for use in respiratory monitoring and/or diagnostics. In general, the mask comprises at least one transducer responsive to sound and airflow for generating a data signal representative thereof, and a support structure shaped and configured to rest on the subject's face and thereby delineate a nose and mouth area thereof. The support structure comprises two or more outwardly projecting limbs that, upon positioning the mask, converge into a transducer supporting portion for supporting the at least one transducer at a distance from the area, thereby allowing for monitoring via the at least one transducer of both sound and airflow produced by the subject while breathing. The limbs may, in some examples, have along at least a portion thereof, an inward-facing channel defined therein for channeling toward a given transducer, air flow produced by the subject while breathing. A method is also disclosed for remotely diagnosing a breathing disorder of a subject. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092840 | INTELLIGENT AIR FLOW SENSORS - A single sensor capable of detecting both airflow in spirometry and the full range of sound frequencies needed to track clinically relevant breath sounds is provided. The airflow sensor includes a movable flap with one or more integrated strain gauges for measuring displacement and vibration. The airflow sensor is inherently bidirectional. The sensor is an elastic flap airflow sensor that is capable of detecting data needed for both spirometry and auscultation measurements. The sensor is sterilizable and designed for the measurement of human respiratory airflow. The sterilizable sensor is also suitable for non-medical fluid flow metering applications. Additional devices such as sensors for the ambient level of various chemicals, sensors for temperature, sensors for humidity and microphones, may be affixed to the flap. When the strain gauge is placed in a conventional Wheatstone bridge configuration, the sensor can provide the airflow measurements needed for medical spirometry. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092841 | METHODS FOR PROVIDING EXPIRATORY PRESSURE RELIEF IN POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE THERAPY - A method of operating a CPAP apparatus in which the interface pressure is controlled to rapidly drop at the start of expiration by an expiratory relief pressure (ERP) that is independent of instantaneous respiratory flow, following which the pressure rises to an inspiratory level at or shortly before the end of expiration, or at the onset of an expiratory pause, if any. The ERP is an increasing function of the inspiratory pressure. The expiratory pressure follows a template that is a function of the expected expiration time, the magnitude of the template being equal to the ERP. The current estimated proportion of expiration is determined by comparing the expiration time of the breath in progress to low-pass filtered expiratory durations measured for a number of the preceding breaths. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092842 | IMPLANTABLE NEURAL SIGNAL ACQUISTION APPARATUS - In an embodiment, an implantable neural signal acquisition apparatus includes a plurality of electrodes, an implantable electronics package, and a wire bundle. The electrodes are configured to be subcutaneously implanted within neural tissue of a test subject and to collect analog neural signals from the test subject. The implantable electronics package is configured to be subcutaneously implanted within the test subject and to convert the analog neural signals to digital output. The wire bundle is coupled between the electrode array and the implantable electronics package and is configured to convey the analog neural signals from the electrodes to the implantable electronics package. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092843 | AERODYNAMIC TISSUE DRIVER - A method for assessing mechanical properties of a selected tissue includes defining an expansion chamber adjacent to the selected tissue and passing pressurized air into the expansion chamber. The method also includes providing an opening through which the pressurized air can escape the expansion chamber, the opening being disposed such that, while escaping from the expansion chamber, air passes by the selected tissue, thereby causing the selected tissue to vibrate. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092844 | MICRO-INSULT TEST AND USE THEREFOR - The present invention relates to a method for testing human skin and other biological tissues, and the use thereof for testing the effects of ingredients and compositions on such tissues in vivo. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092845 | Device for evaluating cutaneous sensory detection - An improved hand-held device for evaluating cutaneous sensory detection consisting of a plastic or similar material rod handle and a simple curve that enables function and versatility not possible without the curve. The curve helps prevent an attached monofilament used as the testing stimulus from being laid down upon itself, or being damaged when put in a case. It helps prevent the monofilament from being sheared off by another device's handle when several devices are grouped for a cutaneous sensory detection test. One embodiment adds a disk attachment at the end of the handle curve and extension. The disk is pre-embedded with a monofilament of a given diameter size, and length, enabling the monofilaments to be quickly and easily replaced or interchanged by an examiner without replacing an entire device, or disassembling a device. Alternative disks contain two or a plurality of filaments of preselected diameter size and length. An optional connector for the handle, with or without the disk attachment, permits more than one device to be used together. The connector enables two of a selected monofilament size and force to concurrently or sequentially apply the given force of application. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092846 | Cerebral Compliance Monitoring - A system and method for monitoring cerebral compliance of a patient by placing a first pressure sensor in a first sub-dural location, preferably a sub-meningeal location, within the brain of the patient and placing at least a second pressure sensor in a second sub-dural location, preferably a sub-meningeal location, within the brain which is different from the first location. At least one parameter from each of the signals derived from the pressure sensors is compared to estimate cerebral compliance for the patient. Alternatively, at least a single pressure sensor is utilized with a generator of reference signals having at least two different frequencies. Preferably, any change in cerebral compliance is detected by determining a change in the compared parameter, and a perceptible indication is generated when cerebral compliance deviates beyond a pre-selected value. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092847 | MRI Biopsy Targeting Cube with Snap Corners - A biopsy system comprises a control module, a localization assembly, a biopsy device, and a targeting cube. The biopsy device and/or other associated components are configured to selectively couple with a targeting cube that selectively couples with a grid plate having apertures for receiving the cube. The targeting cube comprises a body defined by faces. The targeting cube further comprises guide holes that originate and terminate at the faces and pass through the body of the targeting cube to provide passageways through the cube. To securely and removably fit the targeting cube within a grid plate aperture, the targeting cube also comprises deflectable projections positioned at the corners of the cube or extending from the faces of the cube. The projections are resiliently biased to extend outwardly, and are inwardly deflectable by the walls of a grid plate aperture to secure the targeting cube in position within the aperture. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092848 | MRI Biopsy Targeting Cube with Eccentric Lock - A biopsy system comprises a control module, a localization assembly, a biopsy device, and a targeting cube. A probe and/or other associated components of the biopsy device are configured to selectively couple with the targeting cube, which is configured to selectively couple with a grid plate. The targeting cube may comprise an eccentric lock for securing the targeting cube within the grid plate. The targeting cube may further comprise an elastomeric insert positioned within guide holes of the targeting cube for securing the probe and/or other associated components within the guide hole of the targeting cube. The guide holes of the targeting cube may alternatively, or in addition, include an elastomeric retaining ring within the passageway of the guide hole. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092849 | MRI Biopsy Targeting Cube with Gripping Arms - A biopsy system comprises a control module, a localization assembly, a biopsy device, and a targeting cube. The biopsy device and/or other associated components are configured to selectively couple with a targeting cube that selectively couples with a grid plate having apertures for receiving the targeting cube. The targeting cube comprises a body defined by faces. The targeting cube further comprises guide holes that originate and terminate at the faces and pass through the body of the targeting cube to provide passageways through the targeting cube. To securely and removably fit the targeting cube within a grid plate aperture, the targeting cube also comprises a pair of gripping arms. The gripping arms extend from two opposing faces of the cube and snap fit around the walls of the grid plate to secure the targeting cube in position. The arms are resiliently biased to engage the grid plate. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092850 | MRI Biopsy Targeting Guide with Rotational Lock - A biopsy system comprises a control module, a localization assembly, a biopsy device, and a targeting device. A probe and/or other associated components of the biopsy device are configured to selectively couple with the targeting device, which is configured to selectively couple with a grid plate. The targeting device may comprise a rotational lock for securing the targeting device within the grid plate. The targeting device may further comprise an elastomeric insert positioned within guide holes of the targeting device for securing the probe and/or other associated components within the guide hole of the targeting device. The guide holes of the targeting device may alternatively, or in addition, further comprise one or more retaining rings positioned within guide holes of the targeting device for securing the probe and/or other associated components within the guide hole of the targeting device. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092851 | Pneumatic Medical Device - A pneumatic circuit and other components are provided for the operation of a medical device. The pneumatic circuit provides controlled pressurized air to a medical device for use during a medical procedure. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092852 | DEVICE FOR ABSORBING PROTEINS FROM BODY FLUIDS - A planar device for absorbing substances, especially proteins, such as enzymes, from body fluids, especially from gingival crevicular fluid or lacrimal fluid, comprising a receptor element ( | 2011-04-21 |
20110092853 | INTERVENTION DEVICE FOR COLLECTING BIOLOGICAL MATERIAL AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF - An intervention device is disclosed for collecting biological material comprises a surface with a coating covering the surface at least in part. In at least one embodiment, capture molecules, by which the biological material can be bound, are immobilized on the coating. The capture molecules are distributed stochastically on the coating. | 2011-04-21 |
20110092854 | Instruments and system for producing a sample of a body fluid and for analysis thereof - An instrument for producing a sample of body fluid for analysis by piercing the skin with a lancing element having a piercing tip is disclosed. The instrument can comprise a housing and a lancing drive for driving a lancing element connected thereto in a puncturing movement. A pressure ring can surround a skin contact opening and can be adapted for pressing against the skin such that the skin can bulge into the skin contact opening for promoting expression of body fluid. The skin contact opening can have a circular opening with a diameter of at least about 3 mm and at most about 8 mm. The instrument can comprise a pressing force control device for controlling the pressing force between the pressure ring and the skin at the time of triggering the puncturing movement, to be at least about 3 N and at most about 8 N. | 2011-04-21 |