42nd week of 2011 patent applcation highlights part 50 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110257441 | METHOD FOR PURIFYING AN ALCOHOL FROM A FERMENTATION BROTH USING A FALLING FILM, A WIPED FILM, A THIN FILM OR A SHORT PATH EVAPORATOR - Method for purifying an alcohol from a fermentation broth comprising adding a heavy solvent, evaporating the alcohol to be purified, and mechanically drawing out of the crystallized salts by heavy solvent flow and scrapping on a falling film evaporator, a wiped film evaporator, a thin film evaporator or a short path evaporator. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257442 | Process for Vaporizing Acetic Acid for Hydrogenation Processes to Produce Ethanol - Vaporizing acetic acid in the presence of hydrogen to provide a vapor feed stream for a hydrogenation process that produces ethanol. The vaporizer forms a vapor feed stream and a blowdown stream having a weight ratio of the vapor feed stream to the blowdown stream of at least 2:1. The acetic acid may vaporized at a temperature below acetic acid's boiling point at the operating pressure of the reactor. The hydrogenation process produces a crude ethanol product and ethanol is separated from the crude product. In addition, at least one recycle stream comprising acetic acid and less than 1.0 wt. % compounds having a boiling point higher than acetic acid, may also be separated. The recycle streams may be introduced to the vaporizer along with acetic acid to form the vapor feed stream. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257443 | Catalyst Supports Having Crystalline Support Modifiers - A catalyst comprising a first metal, a silicaceous support, and at least one metasilicate support modifier, wherein at least 1 wt. % of the at least one metasilicate support modifier is crystalline in phase, as determined by x-ray diffraction. The invention also relates to processes for forming such catalysts, to supports used therein, and to processes for hydrogenating acetic acid in the presence of such catalysts. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257444 | AZEOTROPE COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING 1,1,1,2,3-PENTAFLUOROPROPENE AND HYDROGEN FLUORIDE AND USES THEREOF - Disclosed herein are azeotrope and near-azeotrope compositions comprising E-1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropene (E-HFC-1225ye) and hydrogen fluoride. The azeotrope and near-azeotrope compositions are useful in processes to produce and in processes to purify E-HFC-1225ye and/or Z-1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropene (Z-HFC-1225ye). Also disclosed are processes for the extractive distillation to separate E-HFC-1225ye from Z-HFC-1225ye. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257445 | PROCESS FOR SEPARATING CHLORINATED METHANES - The present invention relates to a process for separating chlorinated methanes utilizing a dividing wall column. Processes and manufacturing assemblies for generating chlorinated methanes are also provided, as are processes for producing products utilizing the chlorinated methanes produced and/or separated utilizing the present process(es) and/or assemblies. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257446 | PROCESS FOR PRODUCING HYDROCARBONS FROM MICROBIAL LIPIDS - A process for producing hydrocarbons from microbial lipids is provided by: contacting a feed comprising microbial lipids, wherein the microbial lipids comprise a triglyceride content in the range of from 40 wt % to 70 wt % and a free fatty acid content in the range of from 10 wt % to 30 wt %, with a hydrogenation catalyst and hydrogen at a temperature in the range of from 250 to 380° C. and a total pressure in the range of from 20 to 160 bar (absolute), to obtain an effluent comprising paraffinic hydrocarbons and water; optionally separating a liquid stream rich in paraffinic hydrocarbons from the effluent; contacting the paraffinic hydrocarbons in the liquid stream rich in paraffinic hydrocarbons or the effluent comprising paraffinic hydrocarbons by contacting hydrogen and the liquid stream with hydroisomerisation catalyst at a temperature in the range of from 280 to 450° C. and a total pressure in the range of from 20 to 160 bar (absolute); and separating at least one product fraction from the product stream. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257447 | PROCESS FOR PRODUCING HYDROCARBONS FROM MICROBIAL LIPIDS - A process for producing hydrocarbons from microbial lipids is provided by contacting a feed comprising microbial lipids with a hydrogenation catalyst and hydrogen at a temperature in the range of from 250 to 380° C. and a total pressure in the range of from 20 to 160 bar (absolute), to obtain an effluent comprising paraffinic hydrocarbons and water; optionally separating a liquid stream rich in paraffinic hydrocarbons from the effluent; contacting the paraffinic hydrocarbons in the liquid stream rich in paraffinic hydrocarbons or the effluent comprising paraffinic hydrocarbons by contacting hydrogen and the liquid stream with hydroisomerisation catalyst at a temperature in the range of from 280 to 450° C. and a total pressure in the range of from 20 to 160 bar (absolute); and separating at least one product fraction from the product stream obtained, wherein the hydrogenation catalyst and/or the hydroisomerisation catalyst comprises a sulfided hydrogenation catalyst. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257448 | SYNTHESIS OF LIQUID FUELS AND CHEMICALS FROM OXYGENATED HYDROCARBONS - Processes and reactor systems are provided for the conversion of oxygenated hydrocarbons to hydrocarbons, ketones and alcohols useful as liquid fuels, such as gasoline, jet fuel or diesel fuel, and industrial chemicals. The process involves the conversion of mono-oxygenated hydrocarbons to aromatics and gasonline range hydrocarbons where the oxygenated hydrocarbons are derived from biomass. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257449 | METHOD FOR PREPARING RUTHENIUM CATALYST FOR PRODUCING CYCLOOLEFIN AND METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING CYCLOOLEFIN - A method for preparing a ruthenium catalyst, including a step of reducing a ruthenium catalyst precursor by holding the ruthenium catalyst precursor in an aqueous solution containing a metal salt at a temperature within the range of more than 180° C. and 220° C. or less and a hydrogen partial pressure within the range of 0.6 MPa or more and 5 MPa or less. A method for producing a cycloolefin, including a step of preparing a ruthenium catalyst by the method including a step of reducing a ruthenium catalyst precursor in an aqueous solution containing a metal salt by holding the ruthenium catalyst precursor at a temperature within the range of more than 180° C. and 220° C. or less and a hydrogen partial pressure within the range of 0.6 MPa or more and 5 MPa or less, and a step of partially hydrogenating a monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbon by use of the ruthenium catalyst obtained. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257450 | Method of Coupling a Carbon Source with Toluene to Form a Styrene Ethylbenzene - A process is disclosed for making styrene or ethylbenzene by reacting toluene with a C1 source that is selected from the group consisting of methanol, formaldehyde, formalin, trioxane, methylformcel, paraformaldehyde, methylal, and combinations thereof. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257451 | Alkylation of Toluene to Form Styrene and Ethylbenzene - A process is disclosed for making styrene and/or ethylbenzene by reacting toluene with a C1 source over a catalyst in one or more reactors to form a product stream comprising styrene and/or ethylbenzene where the catalyst time on stream prior to regeneration is less than 1 hour. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257452 | Regenerable Composite Catalysts for Hydrocarbon Aromatization - A composite catalyst for aromatization of hydrocarbons includes a molecular sieve catalyst and metal dehydrogenation catalyst present as discrete catalysts in a physical admixture. The molecular sieve catalyst can be a zeolite and the metal dehydrogenation catalyst can be in the form of a nanostructure, such as zinc oxide nanopowder. The catalyst can convert hydrocarbon feedstocks, such as alkanes and alkenes, to aromatics and can be regenerated in-situ. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257453 | Reactors and Processes for the Oxidative Coupling of Hydrocarbons - A method for the oxidative coupling of hydrocarbons includes providing an oxidative catalyst inside a reactor and carrying out the oxidative coupling reaction under a set of reaction conditions. The reactor surfaces that contact the reactants and products do not provide a significant detrimental catalyzing effect. In an embodiment the reactor contains an inert lining or a portion of the reactor inner surface is treated to reduce the detrimental catalytic effects. In an embodiment the reactor contains a lining that includes an oxidative catalyst. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257454 | Use of an Additive in the Coupling of Toluene with a Carbon Source - A method is disclosed of preparing a catalyst including providing a substrate and a first solution containing at least one promoter, contacting the substrate with the solution to obtain a catalyst containing at least one promoter, wherein the contacting of the substrate with the solution subjects the substrate to the addition of at least one promoter. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257455 | Apparatus And Methods For Utilizing Heat Exchanger Tubes - In one aspect, the present techniques include a heat exchange apparatus including: a) a body comprising an interior cavity, the body including: a first surface and a second surface defining at least a portion of the body and the first surface positioned exterior with respect to the second surface and the interior cavity, and the second surface positioned exterior with respect to the interior cavity and interior with respect to the first surface; b) a first conduit for conveying a fluid to the body; c) a second conduit in fluid communication with the first conduit wherein the second conduit is positioned at least partially within the interior cavity of the body; and d) a joint between the first conduit and the second conduit, wherein the joint moves between a first location and a second location based on the temperature within the interior cavity, wherein at least one of said first location and said second location is positioned intermediate the first surface and the second surface. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257456 | Process and Apparatus for Para-Xylene Production - A process of producing PX comprising providing a C | 2011-10-20 |
20110257457 | RADIATION TREATMENT SYSTEMS - Disclosed are radiation treatment systems with enhanced control architectures that enable more complex treatment plans to be implemented, and radiation treatment systems with enhanced resistance to the effect of neutrons. An exemplary control architectures comprises: a digital packet network; a supervisor electrically coupled to the digital packet network and having a treatment plan; and a plurality of nodes, each node coupled to digital packet network and controlling one or more treatment-related components of the radiation treatment system; and wherein the supervisor periodically communicates control orders to the nodes over the digital packet network. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257458 | METHOD OF USING TUMOR CELL DEBRIS TO REDUCE BRAIN TUMOR RECURRENCE OR GROWTH - The present invention describes compositions comprising tumor cell debris, tumor lysate or tumor antigens and methods of using tumor cell debris, tumor lysate or tumor antigens for stimulating a specific immune response. The compositions may further comprise at least one TLR ligand. The stimulation of the specific immune response may be used to treat tumors, particularly, brain tumors. The treatment method may also reduce the recurrence of a tumor and/or inhibit or slow down the growth of a tumor. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257459 | BRACHYTHERAPY APPLICATOR - Described here are brachytherapy applicators that comprise a modular support matrix. The modular support matrix may define the arrangement of radiation source lumens within the brachytherapy applicator. The modular support matrix can be adjusted to position the radiation sources to obtain a certain dose and dose profile. A series of modular support matrices may be operably connected according to patient anatomy or dosing requirements. Systems and methods for using such modular brachytherapy applicators are also described. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257460 | CAPTURING AND DELIVERING MOLECULES IN A MAMMAL - This document relates to molecularly imprinted polymers for use in mammals. For example, methods and materials for capturing a molecule in the body of a mammal using a molecularly imprinted polymer are provided. In some cases methods for delivering a molecule using a molecularly imprinted polymer into the body of a mammal are provided. The methods provided can be used to target any molecule in the body of a mammal. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257461 | VENTRICULAR FUNCTION ASSISTING DEVICE AND A METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTING IT - The present invention provides a ventricular function assisting device configured to be implanted in a heart ventricle designed in a form of flower-like configuration comprising two or more petals attached at a base section, said petals comprise elastic elements and/or portions capable of being elastically bent in radial directions and optionally also in sideway and/or longitudinal directions, which allow changing the state of the device between: i) a folded conformation, in which its petals are radially pressed inwardly towards each other to assume a reduced diameter of its flower-like configuration; and ii) a deployed conformation, in which the petals are opened in a radial outward direction as the device is discharged from the delivery tube or sheath into a heart ventricle and implanted thereinside in a preloaded state. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257462 | ACTIVE OR PASSIVE ASSISTANCE IN THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM - Apparatus and methods for assisting flow of a fluid in a conduit. In some embodiments, a viscous impeller rotating within a protective cage provides a boost and total pressure to blood within the circulatory system of an animal. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257463 | PULSATILE AND NON-INVASIVE DEVICE FOR CIRCULATORY AND HAEMODYNAMIC ASSISTANCE - The present invention relates to a non-invasive pulsatile circulatory assistance device encouraging the circulation of a volume of blood in a subject's body, the device being characterized in that it comprises:
| 2011-10-20 |
20110257464 | Electronic Speech Treatment Device Providing Altered Auditory Feedback and Biofeedback - A device and method for improving speech. One embodiment comprises an apparatus and method for treating stuttering by providing biofeedback to monitor aspects of the user's voice and also providing altered audio feedback (AAF) to induce fluent speech. Biofeedback features include monitoring phonated intervals. AAF features include delayed auditory feedback (DAF), frequency-altered auditory feedback (FAF), and switching the user's voice between his or her left and right ears multiple times per second. The biofeedback controls AAF parameters including volume, which changes smoothly. Bluetooth is also included to connect to wireless microphones and earphones. Another embodiment comprises an apparatus and method for use by persons without speech disabilities for the purpose of improving public speaking by providing their voice back to their ears altered to appear to be in a different emotional state, thus inducing this preferred emotional state in the person speaking. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257465 | Stress relief harmonizing device and method - The present disclosure provides a device and method for reducing stress, inducing relaxation and well-being, and increasing the ability to concentrate, by projecting a series of non-audible impulses into a selected part of a users body. The series of non-audible impulses having an ascending component and descending component where the ascending component and the descending component each including periods of breaks where there are no impulses projected onto the users body. The non-audible impulses are cued to the inhalation cycle and exhalation cycle of breath. The device may be configured as a pendent having a housing, a power source operably secured within the housing, a circuit mechanism having a plurality of different operational modes for producing the series of non-audible impulses, and at least one user operable input switch. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257466 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING THE OF RELAXATION OF A PERSON - The present invention relates to a system ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257467 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING LIGHT THERAPY TO A SUBJECT - A sleep mask is configured to provide light therapy to a subject. The sleep mask provides a comfortable delivery mechanism for the light therapy, and may deliver the light therapy to the subject while the subject is asleep, in the process of going to sleep, and/or waking from sleep. In one embodiment, the sleep mask includes one or more of a shield, a strap, a first lighting module, and/or a second lighting module. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257468 | INDUCING TACTILE STIMULATION OF MUSICAL TONAL FREQUENCIES - Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures comprise beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257469 | Hushband(.TM.): Device to mask ambient sounds for sleeping - This invention is a wearable device that masks and/or cancels annoying ambient sounds to help a person sleep. It includes a soft and stretchable member, such as a headband or hat, that contains one or more sound-conducting tubes. Sound that is emitted from the one or more tubes helps to mask and/or cancel annoying ambient sounds. Advantages of this device over prior art include: no speakers or other rigid components over a person's ears that can be uncomfortable or unsafe when the person sleeps on their side; a relatively wide sound-emitting area to accommodate different size and shape heads; and a stretchable wearable member that gently clings to the person's head to avoid having sound-emitting areas shift away from the person's ears as they toss and turn in their sleep. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257471 | MALE URETHRAL PROSTHESIS WITH TENSIONING MEMBER - The present invention provides a urethral prosthesis including a first and a second arm that join to form a junction, and a stem that is also joined to the junction. The junction is adapted to exert sufficient pressure on a portion of a patient's urethra to prevent unintentional voiding of the patient's bladder. However, upon exerting a tension force on the stem, the pressure exerted by the junction is reduced such that the patient's bladder may be intentionally voided. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257472 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CYSTOCELE REPAIR - A method for cystocele repair comprising the steps of: establishing four pathways in tissue around a bladder of a patient, introducing a strap into each of said pathways, and positioning beneath said bladder of said patient a support member having each said strap connected thereto such that said bladder of said patient is supported by said support member and a bulge of said bladder into a vagina of said patient is reduced. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257475 | SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING ON A PATIENT AN OBSERVATION AND/OR INTERVENTION DEVICE - The present invention relates to a system for positioning with respect to a patient's body an observation and/or intervention device having a portion penetrating into the patient's body comprising a base laid on the patient's body; a means for supporting the device formed of a first portion movably assembled on the base according to a connection with one degree of freedom, and of a second portion movably assembled on the first portion according to a connection with one degree of freedom and connected to the device; and means for actuating the first portion with respect to the base, and the second portion with respect to the first portion, in which the base surrounds at a distance at least partially the device, said device being detachably connected to the second portion to enable removal of the positioning system while leaving in place the device. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257476 | ENDOSCOPIC TUBE DELIVERY SYSTEM - An apparatus is disclosed. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises an endoscope comprising a first distal end portion, and a tube comprising a second distal end portion, wherein the endoscope and the tube are in a side-by-side relationship and are coupled at distal end portions of the endoscope and the tube using a single coupling device. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257477 | Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) Over-Sheath and Methods - The present invention provides methods and devices for facilitating endoscopic tissue resection procedures. The devices of the invention include a flexible over-sheath having one or more lumens/channels and/or a rigid or semi-rigid end cap element for coupling to an endoscopic device. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257478 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING RETRO PERITONEAL DISSECTION - The foregoing application describes a system and method of performing a minimally invasive surgical operation. More specifically, the invention involves the use of disposable cannula and slender dilators of variable lengths, which incorporate a source of illumination to carry light to a surgical site and video capabilities for capturing and displaying images from a CMOS or CCD camera device. According to one embodiment, fiber optics run semi-circumferentially or along walls of the cannula/dilator and terminate at about a centimeter from the distal end of the cannula/dilator, thereby preventing illumination from “bottoming out” at the floor of the incision. According to one alternate embodiment, the light fibers may be fashioned in an annulus around one or more camera chips to provide illumination and video of the surgical site. In still another embodiment, the light fibers may be replaced by light emitting diodes in a more remote light source or alternatively at the distal-tip of the CMOS or CCD camera device. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257479 | CONTROLLABLE ENDOSCOPIC SHEATH APPARATUS AND RELATED METHOD OF USE - A controllable sheath for optimizing the control of surgical instruments at the operation site includes a flexible sheath surrounding an endoscope and including a lumen extending along the walls of the sheath and adjacent to the endoscope. The lumen permits the passage of surgical instruments from the proximal end of the endoscopic device to the operation site. The lumen extends beyond the distal end of the endoscope and deflects at the distal end as desired by the operator's manipulation of a controller device. This distal end deflection may occur through various different techniques where the ability to deflect the lumen gives the operator increased control and maneuverability over the surgical implements located in the lumen. Depending upon the particular requirements of the surgical procedure, the controllable sheath may include any number of lumens capable of distal end deflection. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257480 | MULTIJOINT MANIPULATOR AND ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM HAVING THE SAME - A multijoint manipulator apparatus includes a tubular-member, linear-motion-transmission-members, a drive-unit, a position-detector, a tension-detector, an operation-unit, and a movement-degree-calculation-unit. The linear-members are inserted in the tubular-member, one end and the other end of each of the linear-members being fixed to the vicinity of a joint of the tubular-member and the drive-unit, respectively. The drive-unit moves the linear-members. The position-detector and the tension-detector detect positions and tension of the linear-members, respectively. A desired position/posture of a point of interest is input to the operation-unit. The calculation-unit calculates a current position/posture of the point, a weighting factor serving to give priority to and move the linear-members the tension of which is relatively low among the linear-members, and movement degrees of the linear-members to move the point to the desired position/posture, and causes the drive-unit to pull the linear-members. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257481 | ENDOSCOPE - An endoscope includes an insertion section configured to be extended in a front-and-back direction, configured to be inserted into a body cavity, and including an observation optical system for imaging the inside of the body cavity, an endoscope main body configured to be provided on a rear end side of the insertion section and including a gripping section gripped by an operator, a first antenna configured to be arranged at a position closer to the insertion section than the gripping section, and a second antenna configured to be arranged at a position farther from the insertion section than the gripping section. An image obtained by imaging the inside of the body cavity by the observation optical system is converted into a wireless signal, and transmission/reception of the wireless signal to/from the outside of the endoscope is enabled through at least one of the first and second antennas. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257482 | Laser Beam Collimation Apparatus - The present invention provides an endoscopic laser instrument for positioning the endoscopic instrument in relation to a reference point to measure the proper angular position of an associated medical device associated with a surgical site. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257483 | LIGHT SOURCE DEVICE AND ENDOSCOPE APPARATUS USING THE SAME - A light source device includes: a light emission part in which a plurality of illuminants are arranged on a support body; a light guide member in which light emitted from the light emission part is introduced into an incidence surface at one end of the light guide member; and a light collecting member which is located between the light emission part and the light guide member. The light collecting member comprises a plurality of tapered columnar bodies tapered toward the incidence surface of the light guide member. The plurality of tapered columnar bodies are placed so that base end portions thereof are each opposed to an associated one of light emission surfaces of the illuminants. A light emission window is formed at a position of the device, which is opposed to the incidence surface of the light guide member. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257484 | LIGHT SOURCE DEVICE AND ENDOSCOPE APPARATUS USING THE SAME - A light source device includes: a light emission part in which a plurality of illuminants are arranged on a support body; a light guide member in which light emitted from the light emission part is introduced into an incidence surface at one end of the light guide member; and a light collecting member which is located between the light emission part and the light guide member. The light collecting member includes a plurality of tapered columnar bodies, which are placed so that tip portions thereof are opposed to the incidence surface of the light guide member and base end portions thereof are opposed to light emission surfaces of the illuminants. A selective translucent member for limiting transmission of an infrared component is located along an optical path leading from the light emission part to the incidence surface of the light guide member. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257485 | Swing prism endoscope - A swing prism endoscope with adjustable viewing direction includes a shaft with a proximal end and a distal end and a window of a transparent material that seals an opening on the distal end of the shaft so that it is fluid-tight. In addition the swing prism endoscope includes a pivotable prism on the distal end of the shaft for adjustable diversion of light that falls through the window into the shaft of the swing prism endoscope onto an object lens, where the pivotable prism is made of diamond. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257486 | Optical catheter with rotary optical cap - A scanning optical head for a catheter is locally controlled by a motor at an insertion end of the catheter uses a hollow motor through which a longitudinal optical path of the catheter passes. This permits the motor to be positioned between a control base of the catheter and avoids rotating the whole fibre, and therefore makes the beam scanning stable and accurate. In addition, because there is no coupling component, it also eliminates the light reflection between additional surfaces as well as varying fiber birefringence, which becomes a cause of noise when imaging the deep structure. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257487 | Lateral and Anterior Lateral Retractor System - A novel surgical lateral retraction system is provided, including a delivery device and retractor blades. The delivery device includes a shaft having distal and proximal portions and a plurality of engaging features extending along the distal portion of the shaft. The engaging features are sized and configured to slidingly engage the retractor blades, wherein each retractor blade may be attached to the shaft independently by sliding onto one of the engaging features. The shaft may include first and second curved surfaces on either side of at least one of the engaging features, wherein the first and second curved surfaces are sized and configured to correspond to retractor curved surfaces located on either side of a central channel of a retractor blade. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257488 | SURGICAL LIGHTING SYSTEM - A surgical lighting system includes: a lighting portion | 2011-10-20 |
20110257489 | BODY-WORN MONITOR FOR MEASURING RESPIRATORY RATE - The invention provides a system for measuring respiratory rate (RR) from a patient. The system includes an impedance pneumography (IP) sensor, connected to at least two electrodes, and a processing system that receives and processes signals from the electrodes to measure an IP signal. A motion sensor (e.g. an accelerometer) measures at least one motion signal (e.g. an ACC waveform) describing movement of a portion of the patient's body to which it is attached. The processing system receives the IP and motion signals, and processes them to determine, respectfully, frequency-domain IP and motion spectra. Both spectra are then collectively processed to remove motion components from the IP spectrum and determine RR. For example, during the processing, an algorithm determines motion frequency components from the frequency-domain motion spectrum, and then using a digital filter removes these, or parameters calculated therefrom, from the IP spectrum. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257490 | METHOD OF EVALUATING CONSTIPATION USING AN INGESTIBLE CAPSULE - A method for diagnosing constipation comprising the steps of providing an ingestible capsule ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257491 | IN-BODY DEVICE HAVING DEPLOYABLE ANTENNA - Deployable antennas for in-body devices, such as implantable and ingestible devices, are provided. Aspects of the in-body deployable antennas of the invention include antennas configured to go from a first configuration to a second configuration following placement in a living body, e.g., via ingestion or implantation. Embodiments of the in-body devices are configured to emit a detectable signal upon contact with a target physiological site. Also provided are methods of making and using the devices of the invention. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257492 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE STATE OF A SKIN DISORDER USING NEAR INFRARED (NIR) SPECTROSCOPY - The invention relates to a non-invasive method for determining the state of a skin disorder using Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy as well as a system and an apparatus therefor. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257493 | BODY FLUID SAMPLING DEVICE - Body fluid sampling device comprising a sampling element having a fluid pathway ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257494 | SUB-MICRON SURFACE PLASMON RESONANCE SENSOR SYSTEMS - Wearable or implantable devices combining microfluidic control of sample and reagent flow and micro-cavity surface plasmon resonance sensors functionalized with surface treatments or coatings capable of specifically binding to target analytes, ligands, or molecules in a bodily fluid are provided. The devices can be used to determine the presence and concentration of target analytes in the bodily fluids and thereby help diagnose, monitor or detect changes in disease conditions. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257495 | Analyte Monitoring Device and Methods - Method and system for determining real time analyte concentration including an analyte sensor having a portion in fluid contact with an interstitial fluid under a skin layer, an on-body electronics including a housing coupled to the analyte sensor and configured for positioning on the skin layer, the on-body electronics housing including a plurality of electrical contacts , on the housing; and a data analysis unit having a data analysis unit housing and a plurality of probes , on the housing. Each of the probes configured to electrically couple to a respective electrical contact when the data analysis unit is positioned in physical contact with the on-body electronics. The one or more signals on the probes correspond to one or more of a substantially real time monitored analyte concentration level (MACL), MACL over a predetermined time period, or a rate of change of the MACL, or combinations thereof, are provided. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257496 | MEASUREMENT DEVICE, INSULIN INFUSION DEVICE, MEASUREMENT METHOD, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING INSULIN INFUSION DEVICE, AND PROGRAM - Provided are a measurement device by which the blood-sugar level or the like associated with the living activity of a diabetic patient can be measured easily and precisely and the measured valued associated with the living activity can be clinically applied easily, and an insulin infusion device, a measurement method, a method for controlling an insulin fusion device, and a program. A blood-sugar level measurement device ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257497 | Flux Enhancement in Continuous Glucose Monitoring - One aspect of the invention is a method of in vivo monitoring of an individual's interstitial fluid glucose concentration comprising inserting a plurality of tissue piercing elements through a stratum corneum layer of an area of the individual's skin. The tissue piercing elements each comprise a distal end in fluid communication with interstitial fluid of the individual, and a proximal end in fluid communication with a sensing zone located outside of the patient's body. An interior space extends between the distal and proximal ends of the tissue piercing elements. A sensing fluid fills substantially the entire interior space and the sensing fluid concentration comprises a concentration of citrate in a buffer solution. The concentration of citrate may range from 100 mM to 200 mM, preferably 135-165 mM. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257498 | BLOOD TEST APPARATUS AND BLOOD TEST METHOD - A blood test apparatus has a housing with an opening, and a plunger that moves back and forth inside the housing, the plunger having a projecting member. A fixing member fixes the plunger, which is provided in the housing. A blood sampling cartridge, in which a blood sensor, a puncturer, and a holder that holds the blood sensor and the puncturer, are integrated. The blood sampling cartridge is removably attached to the opening. The puncturer includes a lancet, one end of which is held by the plunger, and a blood collection needle attached to an other end of the lancet. A measuring circuit measures a signal obtained from the blood sensor to analyze components in the blood. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257499 | Dual-Deflecting Electrophysiology Catheter - An electrophysiology catheter includes a tubular body having a proximal region, a neck region, and a distal region predisposed into a loop and including electrodes. A first deflection wire extends through at least a portion of the proximal region of the catheter body and includes a first flattened section, while a second deflection wire extends through the neck region and at least a portion of the distal region and includes a second flattened section within the neck region. A first activation wire is joined to the flattened section of the first deflection wire, while a second activation wire is joined to the flattened section of the second deflection wire. Thus, forces acting on the first and second activation wires, such as forces imposed by a handle-based actuator, are respectively transmitted to the first and second deflection wires, thereby deflecting the proximal and neck regions, respectively. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257500 | TEMPORARY IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL ELECTRICAL LEADS - A temporary implantable medical electrical lead includes a conductor extending along a proximal, extracorporeal length and a distal, subcutaneous length of the lead. Electrically isolated first and second wire filars of the conductor are wound to form an elongate lumen of the lead. First and second electrodes are mounted directly onto the conductor, along the subcutaneous length, and each is directly coupled to the corresponding filar. A fixation member is attached to a tubular member, which is conformed to an outer surface of the conductor so as to only cover the conductor along the subcutaneous length, leaving the outer surface exposed along a portion thereof, adjacent to the extracorporeal length. When the lead is implanted, the fixation member holds the subcutaneous length in a relatively fixed location, and fluid communication exists between the outer surface of the conductor and the lumen of the lead. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257501 | Bio-Hybrid Implant for Connecting a Neural Interface With a Host Nervous System - A bio-hybrid implant suitable for recording and/or stimulating cells, the implant comprising (a) at least one closed insulated chamber ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257502 | Electroencephalogram (EEG) Cluster Electrodes - Embodiments described herein include devices and systems comprising sensor electrodes. Each sensor electrode comprises contacts positioned adjacent one another to form a pattern. Signal outputs are coupled to the contacts. A signal output is connected to each contact. One or more processors are coupled to the signal outputs. The processor separately processes each of the signal outputs. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257503 | NEUROLOGICAL SCREENING CONNECTOR - A medical lead screening connector includes a housing, a plurality of electrical contacts disposed within the housing, where each lead receptor channel includes at least two lead receptor contacts, and a cover hingedly attached to the housing. The cover includes a protrusion that is arranged and configured to register with one of the lead receptor channels and contacts a lead body received in the lead receptor channel when the cover is in a closed position. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257504 | BIOLOGICALLY INTEGRATED ELECTRODE DEVICES - Bioelectrodes having enhanced biocompatible and biomimetic features are provided. Methods of making and using the bioelectrodes are further provided. A biologically integrated bioelectrode device and method for detecting electronic signals using a bioelectrode comprising a first electrically conductive substrate and a biological component. The bioelectrode also comprises a conductive polymer electrically coupling the first electrically conductive substrate and the biological component to define a bioelectrode. The bioelectrode can transmit or receive an electrical signal between the electrically conductive substrate and the biological component and conductive polymer. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257505 | ATHEROMATIC?: IMAGING BASED SYMPTOMATIC CLASSIFICATION AND CARDIOVASCULAR STROKE INDEX ESTIMATION - Characterization of carotid atherosclerosis and classification of plaque into symptomatic or asymptomatic along with the risk score estimation are key steps necessary for allowing the vascular surgeons to decide if the patient has to definitely undergo risky treatment procedures that are needed to unblock the stenosis. This application describes a statistical (a) Computer Aided Diagnostic (CAD) technique for symptomatic versus asymptomatic plaque automated classification of carotid ultrasound images and (b) presents a cardiovascular risk score computation. We demonstrate this for longitudinal Ultrasound, CT, MR modalities and extendable to 3D carotid Ultrasound. The on-line system consists of Atherosclerotic Wall Region estimation using AtheroEdge™ for longitudinal Ultrasound or Athero-CTView™ for CT or Athero-MRView from MR. This greyscale Wall Region is then fed to a feature extraction processor which uses the combination: (a) Higher Order Spectra; (b) Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT); (c) Texture and (d) Wall Variability. Another combination uses: (a) Local Binary Pattern; (b) Law's Mask Energy and (c) Wall Variability. The output of the Feature Processor (from either of the combination) is fed to the Classifier which is trained off-line from the Database of similar Atherosclerotic Wall Region images. The off-line Classifier using combination one is trained from the significant features from (a) Higher Order Spectra; (b) Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT); (c) Texture and (d) Wall Variability, selected using t-test. Using the combination two, the off-line Classifier uses grayscale features: (a) Local Binary Pattern; (b) Law's Mask Energy and (c) Wall Variability. Symptomatic ground truth information about the training, patients is drawn from cross modality imaging such as CT or MR or 3D ultrasound in the form of 0 or 1. Support Vector Machine (SVM) supervised classifier of varying kernel functions is used off-line for training. The Atheromatic™ system is also demonstrated for Radial Basis Probabilistic Neural Network (RBPNN), or Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classifier or Decision Trees (DT) Classifier for symptomatic versus asymptomatic plaque automated classification. The obtained training parameters are then used to evaluate the test set. The system also yields the cardiovascular risk score value on the basis of the four set of wall features in combination one and risk score using combination two. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257506 | NON-INVASIVE METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AND EVALUATING NEURAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY - The disclosure pertains to a non-invasive method and system for detecting and evaluating neural electrophysiological sources by exploring a multiplicity of points belonging to a zone of interest. The non-invasive techniques pose problems as to the instability of the estimation in relation to the position of the measurement points and errors of geometrical registration with complementary anatomical examinations, this possibly generating significant errors. The present disclosure is aimed at proposing a non-invasive method and system for detecting and evaluating profound neural electrophysiological activity which is both fast, complete and accurate. In this regard, the disclosure is aimed at a non-invasive method of detecting and evaluating neural electrophysiological activity comprising a step of non-invasive acquisition of anatomical and electrophysiological data in an analysis region, a step of identifying at least one electrophysiological source and a step of selecting at least one main measurement point, characterized in that it furthermore comprises a step of estimating the electrical potentials at a plurality of secondary measurement points belonging to a zone of interest situated around the main measurement point. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257507 | MORPHOMETRY OF THE HUMAN KNEE JOINT AND PREDICTION FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS - Apparatus and method for analysing the morphometry of a human knee joint. The apparatus comprises:
| 2011-10-20 |
20110257508 | Device For Supporting, Scanning, Tomographically Displaying A Patient And Carrying Out An Intervention And Method For Determining The Spatial Relation Between Optical Recordings And Tomographic Displays - A device is disclosed for supporting, scanning, tomographically displaying a patient and carrying out an intervention. In at least one embodiment, for the device includes a computer system to: calculate the spatial position of at least one intervention channel in spatial relation to the patient couch and/or to the patient on the basis of previously obtained positional information on the at least one tomographic display of the patient; output the respectively current optical recordings of the patient on the patient couch online; and superpose the current optical recordings of the patient with a spatially adapted display of the intervention channel and/or intervention target point and/or an intervention instrument directed at the intervention channel. Moreover, a method is disclosed for determining the spatial relation between optical recordings and tomographic displays, with the aid of an adjustment phantom with at least three points in space that can be identified visually and at least three points in space that can be identified by the tomographic recording system, the mutual relative spatial positions of which are known. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257509 | COORDINATION OF FUNCTIONAL MRI SCANNING AND ELECTRICAL STIMULATION THERAPY - Changes in electrical stimulation therapy delivered via a medical device are coordinated with Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scans. In one example, a medical device delivers electrical stimulation therapy to a patient in an MRI unit, where the medical device is configured to cycle electrical stimulation therapy between a plurality of stimulation states. An indication that the medical device will cycle the electrical stimulation therapy or has cycled the electrical stimulation therapy while the patient is in the MRI unit or being imaged by the MRI unit is generated, and an MRI scan of the patient via an MRI workstation is initiated based on the indication. In another example, a medical device detects activation of an MRI scan and automatically switches stimulation states based upon the detection of the MRI scan, such that the scan is associated with a particular stimulation state. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257510 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CARDIAC INTERVENTION WITH MR STROKE DETECTION AND TREATMENT - A system for the early detection and treatment of catheter-induced ischemic strokes includes a magnetic resonance system ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257511 | GENERAL INDUCTIVE HANDPIECE FOR ACTIVE DEVICES - A handpiece ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257512 | SUSCEPTIBILITY-BASED LOCAL FLOW DETECTION TO CONTROL MR-GUIDED ABLATION USING BALLOON DEVICES - An interventional instrument ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257513 | IMMOBILIZATION APPARATUS FOR MEDICAL IMAGING - An apparatus for immobilizing an anatomical feature during a magnetic resonance imaging process of the anatomical feature is disclosed. The apparatus has a housing, which defines a central opening to accommodate the anatomical feature. The apparatus further includes a coil member fixedly mounted in the housing. The coil member processes an RF signal. The apparatus further includes a first support member disposed at a side of the housing and a second support member disposed at an opposite side of the housing. The first and second support members are fixed with respect to the housing. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257514 | IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD FOR ESTIMATING A BRAIN SHIFT IN A PATIENT - The disclosure relates to an image processing method for estimating a brain shift in a patient, the method involving: the processing of a three-dimensional image of the brain of a patient, acquired before a surgical operation, in order to obtain a reference cerebral arterial tree structure of the patient; the processing of three-dimensional images of the brain of the patient, acquired during the operation, in order to at least partially reconstitute a current cerebral arterial tree structure of the patient; the determination from the combination of the reference and current cerebral arterial tree structures, of a field of shift of the vascular tree representing the shift of the current vascular tree in relation to the reference vascular tree; the application of the determined field of shift of the vascular tree to a biomechanical model of the brain of the patient in order to estimate the brain shift of the patient; and the generation, from the estimated brain shift, of at least one image of the brain of the patient, in which the brain shift is compensated. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257515 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE RF COIL ASSEMBLY FOR IMAGING OF THE CERVICAL REGION - A radio-frequency (RF) coil for obtaining magnetic resonance data for imaging the cervical region of a patient has a loop coil contained in a housing of an applicator assembly that is adapted for placement against the cervix of the patient, and a loopless antenna contained in a tandem applicator of the assembly, that is adapted for intracorporeal placement in the cervix of the patient. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257516 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE METHOD AND APPARATUS TO SEPARATE DEPICTION OF A TRACKED ITEM FROM SURROUNDING ANATOMY OF A PATIENT, USING A TRANSMIT ARRAY SYSTEM - In a method for detecting rotational orientation and position tracking of an inductively coupled RF (ICRF) coil using a transmit array system, a conventional body birdcage coil is used, but the quadrature hybrid is eliminated to use the two excitation-channels separately. The transmit array system provides RF excitations such that the body birdcage coil creates linearly polarized and circulating RF pulses instead of a conventional rotational forward polarized excitation. Inductively coupled RF (ICRF) coils can be constructed on catheters for detecting rotational orientation and tracking purposes. The modifications on anatomy and ICRF coil images are different due to the RF excitation scheme such that the ICRF coil can be separated from the anatomy in real-time. After separating the ICRF coil from the anatomy, a color-coded image can be reconstructed, for example. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257517 | Patient-Specific Seizure Onset Detection System - The present invention provides methods and systems for patient-specific seizure onset detection. In one embodiment, at least one EEG waveform of the patient is recorded, and at least one epoch (sample) of the waveform is extracted. The waveform sample is decomposed into one or more subband signals via a wavelet decomposition of the waveform sample, and one or more feature vectors are computed based on the subband signals. A seizure onset can then be identified based on classification of the feature vectors to a seizure or a non-seizure class by comparing the feature vectors with a decision measure previously computed for that patient. The decision measure can be derived based on reference seizure and non-seizure EEG waveforms of the patient. In another aspect, similar methodology is employed for automatic detection of alpha waves. In other aspects, the invention provides diagnostic and imaging systems that incorporate the above seizure-onset and alpha-wave detection methodology. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257518 | COMPUTER-AIDED OSTEOPLASTY SURGERY SYSTEM - A method for performing computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery includes the steps of: ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257519 | ESTIMATING AND CORRECTING FOR CONTRAST AGENT EXTRAVASATION IN TISSUE PERFUSION IMAGING - The invention provides a method, an image analysis software product, and a system for medical imaging analysis for estimating contrast agent extravasation in contrast agent based perfusion imaging such as MRI dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE) imaging, and in particular correction, compensation, or visualization of extravascular leakage of contrast agent in tumors. According to the invention, the effect of extravasation is directly manifested in the tail part of an observed, apparent residue function, R′(t), obtained directly by de-convoluting the expression C(t)=R′(t) | 2011-10-20 |
20110257520 | LEAK DETECTING APPARATUS - A leak detecting apparatus is provided which can detect leak of a liquid injected through an injection needle into a blood vessel of a human body near its surface with high accuracy. The apparatus emits a light ray in a predetermined wavelength band containing a particular wavelength at which the reflectivity for the liquid is lower than the reflectivity for internal tissues of the human body, to the human body at a position thereof where the injection needle is inserted, and detects the light ray in the wavelength band reflected inside the human body. The apparatus measures the average intensity of the detected light ray in the wavelength band and the intensity of the detected light ray at the particular wavelength to determine an occurrence of leak when the ratio of the intensity at the particular wavelength to the measured average intensity in the wavelength band is lower than a predetermined reference value. Variations in human body or physical condition affect the whole of the wavelength band but have no effects on the relative relationships between the wavelength band and the particular wavelength. Thus, the leak of the liquid can be detected without being affected by variations in human body or physical condition. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257521 | INSERTION DETECTOR FOR MEDICAL PROBE - An insertion detector for monitoring a position of a medical probe relative to a body cavity of a patient, the probe incorporates a proximity sensor that is responsive to a predetermined property of the patient's body. The proximity sensor may include a light emitter and a light detector. When the medical probe is inserted into the body cavity, a light flux between the light emitter and light detector is changed due to either obstruction by the cavity walls or reflection by the patient's skin. A response from the proximity sensor may be used to adjust a temperature measured from the body cavity to correct for errors due to non-insertion or partial insertion of the probe into the body cavity. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257522 | Injection of Fluid - A system for monitoring the intended injection of a fluid into a fluid conduit in the body, wherein the fluid to be injected may include a first fluid, the system: introducing a pulse into the fluid to be injected and monitoring the flow characteristics of fluid in the fluid conduit in the body at a location downstream of the point of injection. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257523 | FOCUSED ULTRASONIC RENAL DENERVATION - Acoustic energy is delivered to innervated vascular that contributes to renal sympathetic nerve activity, such as innervated tissue of the renal artery and abdominal aorta. Focused acoustic energy is delivered via an intravascular device of sufficient power to ablate innervated renal or aortal tissue. Focused acoustic energy may be delivered via an intravascular or extracorporeal device to image and locate target innervated renal or aortal tissue. Intravascular, extravascular, or transvascular focused ultrasound devices provide for high precision denervation of innervated vascular to terminate renal sympathetic nerve activity. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257524 | EXTERNAL AUTONOMIC MODULATION - In some embodiments, nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some embodiments, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some embodiments, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257525 | SENSOR GUIDED CATHETER NAVIGATION SYSTEM - A method and a system for producing images of a subject, such as the heart of a human being. The method may comprise acquiring ultrasound images of the subject with a catheter comprising a position sensor. The method may also comprise capturing a plurality of 4D surface registration points in the acquired ultrasound images corresponding to points on the subject. The method may also comprise registering, in space and time, a high-resolution 4D model of the subject with the plurality of 4D surface registration points. The method may also comprise displaying high resolution, real-time images of the subject during a medical procedure based on the registration of the high resolution 4D model to the 4D surface registration points. Embodiments of the present invention are especially useful in left atrium ablation procedures. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257526 | CATHETER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A catheter basically has a catheter shaft in which a catheter tip of which is provided with a joint made of a material which is more flexible than the material of the catheter shaft. The joint is disposed between the distal end of the catheter shaft and the distal end of the catheter tip. The front end consists of a material being the same or more rigid than that of the catheter shaft. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257527 | ULTRASOUND CAROTID MEDIA WALL CLASSIFICATION AND IMT MEASUREMENT IN CURVED VESSELS USING RECURSIVE REFINEMENT AND VALIDATION - A computer-implemented system and method for intima-media thickness (IMT) measurements using a validation embedded segmentation method. Various embodiments include receiving biomedical imaging data and patient demographic data corresponding to a current scan of a patient; checking the biomedical imaging data in real-time to determine if an artery of the patient has a calcium deposit in a proximal wall of the artery; acquiring arterial data of the patient as a combination of longitudinal B-mode and transverse B-mode data; using a data processor to automatically recognize the artery by embedding anatomic information; using the data processor to calibrate a region of interest around the automatically recognized artery; automatically computing the weak or missing edges of intima-media and media-adventitia walls using labeling and connectivity; and determining the intima-media thickness (IMT) of an arterial wall of the automatically recognized artery. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257528 | DIAGNOSTIC SONOGRAPHIC SYSTEM FOR ECHOGRAPHIC EXPLORATION OF HUMAN ORGANS AND METHOD OF SIMULATING SURGERY USING SAME - A diagnostic sonographic system for echographic exploration of human organs includes a transducer assembly comprising a first transducer module including a first sound wave generation and transmission member and a first echo receiver, a second transducer module including a second sound wave generation and transmission member and a second echo receiver, and a through hole between the first and second transducer modules; and an image processing assembly for receiving echoes from the first and second echo receivers and processing and transforming same into a digital image. A method of simulating surgery using same is also provided. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257529 | ULTRASONIC APPARATUS FOR MEASURING A LABOR PROGRESS PARAMETER - An apparatus ( | 2011-10-20 |
20110257530 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - When a subject is pressed by a plate and an acoustic wave is received by a probe via the plate, the acoustic wave is refracted because of the difference between a sound velocity in the subject and a sound velocity in the plate. When the refraction is not considered, a reduction in resolution occurs. A correction table or a correction formula for correcting image distortion associated with refraction is provided. After image information is acquired, new image information is acquired in accordance with the correction table or the correction formula, and is displayed. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257531 | METHOD OF MEASURING THE THICKNESS OF A BIOLOGICAL TISSUE BY ULTRASOUNDS AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SUCH METHOD - A method of measuring the thickness of a biological tissue by ultrasounds and a device carrying out such method. The method is implemented with an ultrasound probe that emits ultrasonic pulses within a body under examination and receives echoes generated from structures of the body under examination. The probe includes an array of two or more electro-acoustic transducers and, in combination, means for processing the reception signals and means for orienting one or more lines of sight, along which the emission of the pulses and/or the reception of the echoes is focused, according to different angles with respect to an axis perpendicular to the emitting surface of the probe. The thickness of the biological tissue is calculated by the time interval between the reception of the first echo and the reception of the second echo, which are relevant to the same ultrasonic pulse emitted along at least a line of sight oriented along an axis perpendicular to the surface of the biological tissue, which is defined by the iteration of measurements with the line of sight oriented at different angles and with comparisons between the measured intensity values, the orientation corresponding to the axis perpendicular to the surface of the biological tissue being the one showing the maximum intensity of the first echo. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257532 | ULTRASONIC PROBE AND METHOD OF PREPARING ULTRASONIC PROBE - Provided is an ultrasonic probe possessing signal lines for which generation of the acoustic crosstalk between piezoelectric elements to each other constituting a piezoelectric element array, and also provided is a method of preparing the ultrasonic probe. Disclosed is an ultrasonic probe comprising a first piezoelectric element array in which first piezoelectric elements each as a both-sided electrodes-providing piezoelectric element are two-dimensionally arrayed; a second piezoelectric element array layered on the first piezoelectric element array; an acoustic separation section provided between the first piezoelectric elements to each other, arrayed in the first piezoelectric element array; and a signal line possessing a conductive layer coated on an outer circumferential surface of a core material and the core material having an acoustic impedance nearly equal to another acoustic impedance of the acoustic separation section, the signal line connected to the second electrode by passing through the acoustic separation section. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257533 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION MEASUREMENT DEVICE, ILLUMINATION METHOD IN A BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION MEASUREMENT DEVICE, AND BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION MEASUREMENT METHOD - A biological information measurement device that measures biological information of a user includes: a device main body; a fitting-removal section which is provided in the device main body, and to/from which a sensor that measures the biological information is fitted/removed; a light source section that is provided within the device main body at a position spaced apart from the fitting-removal section and that functions as a light source for components of the biological information measurement device other than the fitting-removal section; and a light guide member that guides light emitted by the light source section to a predetermined position in the vicinity of the fitting-removal section to/from which the sensor is fitted/removed. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257534 | PHOTOELECTRIC SPHYGMOGRAPH MEASUREMENT DEVICE - A photoelectric sphygmograph measurement device includes a light emitting part emitting light pulses, a light receiving part having a light receiving element that receives the light pulses and producing a corresponding output signal, and a control part driving the light emitting part to emit the light pulses and performing a pulse wave measurement by using the output signal. The control part drives the light emitting part so that a charge accumulated in the light emitting element converges on a predetermined amount in a case where the charge accumulated in the light receiving element decreases to the predetermined amount or less during a time when driving of the light emitting part is stopped and/or in a case where the light receiving element changes to a first state in which the light receiving element is capable of receiving the light pulses from a second state in which the light receiving element is not capable of receiving the light pulses. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257535 | SYSTEM AND A METHOD FOR CARDIAC MONITORING - A system for monitoring a heart of a patient, the system includes: (i) a physiological data input interface, operative for receiving signals indicative of cardiac activity of the patient; (ii) a processor configured to process the signals to provide monitoring results; and (iii) an output interface operative to provide the monitoring results; wherein the monitoring results include information indicative of: (a) a heart rate of the patient during a monitoring period; (b) at least one first time period in which the heart rate of the patient exceeded a first threshold; and (c) at least one second time period in which the heart rate of the patient exceeded both the first threshold and a second threshold. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257536 | METHOD FOR DETECTING HEARTBEAT AND/OR RESPIRATION - A method for detecting heartbeat and/or respiration is provided. The method provided includes receiving a wave signal, and analyzing the received wave signal using a heartbeat and/or respiratory model, thereby providing a result signal indicating whether the received wave signal represents heartbeat and/or respiration. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257537 | BLOOD PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM PROVIDING ENHANCED VASCULAR ANEURYSM DETECTION FEATURES AND RELATED METHODS - A blood pressure monitoring system may include a plurality of a blood pressure measuring devices each configured to measure blood pressure of a respective extremity of a patient, and a blood pressure monitoring device. The blood pressure monitoring device may include at least one interface device configured to interface with the plurality of blood pressure measuring devices, and a controller coupled to the at least one interface device. The controller may be configured to cooperate with the plurality of blood pressure measuring devices to determine respective blood pressure measurements for each patient extremity, selectively determine differences between the blood pressure measurements, and generate an indication of a probable vascular aneurysm based upon a determined difference between at least two of the blood pressure measurements reaching a vascular aneurysm threshold value. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257538 | ELECTRONIC SPHYGMOMANOMETER AND BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT METHOD - An electronic sphygmomanometer includes a cuff to be attached to a blood pressure measurement site, a pump and a valve for adjusting pressure to be applied on the cuff, a pressure sensor for detecting pressure in the cuff, a central processing unit (CPU) for calculating a blood pressure value from the cuff pressure, a memory for recording the blood pressure value, and an operation unit for carrying out a blood pressure measurement. A measurement condition input switch acquires information related to a condition at the time of current blood pressure measurement, and the memory stores the condition as measurement record information along with the blood pressure value. The CPU acquires past measurement record information close to the condition at the time of the blood pressure measurement from the memory and corrects a blood pressure measurement parameter based on the measurement record information. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257539 | ELECTRONIC SPHYGMOMANOMETER AND BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT METHOD - An electronic sphygmomanometer includes a cuff to be attached to a blood pressure measurement site, a pump and a valve for adjusting a pressure to apply to the cuff, a pressure sensor for detecting a pressure of the cuff, a central processing unit (CPU) for calculating a blood pressure value from the cuff pressure, a memory for recording the blood pressure value, and an operation unit for carrying out a blood pressure measurement. The CPU corrects the calculated blood pressure value based on separately acquired correction information and acquires attachment condition information of the cuff as the correction information. When the attachment condition information is acquired as the correction information, the CPU corrects a blood pressure calculation parameter based on the attachment condition information. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257540 | ELECTRONIC SPHYGMOMANOMETER AND BLOOD PRESSURE MEASURING METHOD - An electronic sphygmomanometer includes a central processing unit (CPU) that calculates a blood pressure calculation parameter by executing a predetermined calculation using a constant set in advance with respect to a change in a pressure pulse wave amplitude indicating a volume change of an artery at the time of blood pressure measurement. The CPU separately acquires measurement state related information related to a state of a user and/or a state of the cuff at the time of blood pressure measurement. When the measurement state related information is acquired, the CPU corrects the blood pressure calculation parameter by correcting the constant based on the measurement state related information. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257541 | Blood pressure measuring device - A blood pressure measuring device disclosed in the present invention comprises a base, a reel-type cuff and at least one stopper. The reel-type cuff is elastically and recoverably reeled in the base with one end, and is freely extended out from the base with the other end. The stopper, after being operated, can limit at least one determined length that the reel-type cuff is extended out from the base. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257542 | System Method and Device for Performing Heat Stress Tests - A system, method and device for testing for heat stress of a person is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes determining a first heart rate of the person at the end of a first time period during which a heart rate of the person maintained at least a first predetermined heart rate; after the first time period, determining a second heart rate of the person at the end of a second time period during which the heart rate of the person did not exceed a second predetermined heart rate; wherein the first predetermined heart rate is greater than the second predetermined heart rate; determining that the heart rate of the person transitioned from at least the first predetermined heart rate to no greater than the second predetermined heart rate within a predetermined transition time period; determining a heart rate recovery by subtracting the second heart rate from the first heart rate; determining a heart rate recovery ratio by dividing the heart rate recovery by a heart rate recover baseline; and providing a notification if the heart rate recovery ratio is beyond a threshold. | 2011-10-20 |
20110257543 | ARM-FASTENING DEVICE FOR SPHYGMOMANOMETER, PULSE SENSOR, SPHYGMOMANOMETER APPARATUS COMPRISING THE DEVICE AND SENSOR, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING PULSE SENSOR - The present invention relates to an arm-fastening device for a pulse diagnosis, a pulse sensor, a pulse diagnosis apparatus comprising the device and sensor, and a method for manufacturing the pulse sensor. Embodiments of the present invention permit the pulse of a person to be examined to be correctly measured in the state in which the person to be examined is a comfortable one when the pulse of the person to be examined is being measured. | 2011-10-20 |