Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080200794 | Multi-configuration tracknig array and related method - A navigation system generally determines a location of a portion of a first medical instrument relative to a patient. The navigation system generally includes a multi-configuration tracking array that extends from the first medical instrument. A plurality of tracking devices can be positioned on the multi-configuration tracking array. At least one of the tracking devices changes to define at least a first condition and a second condition. A tracking system detects the tracking devices and relates a change between the first condition and the second condition with a change between at least a first instrument configuration and a second instrument configuration. | 08-21-2008 |
20080214922 | Method for localizing an imaging device with a surgical navigation system - The position of an imaging device can be determined at least in part with a movement portion of the imaging device. The imaging device can be moved relative to the patient to obtain image data of the patient at different perspectives or angles. The image data obtained of the patient can be displayed with a display device at various perspectives and a tracked position of the instrument can be displayed at the appropriate perspective or a selected perspective relative to the image data with the display device based upon a known position of the imaging device. | 09-04-2008 |
20080221425 | System and method for local deformable registration of a catheter navigation system to image data or a model - A method for registering a catheter navigation system to a three-dimensional image generally includes obtaining a three-dimensional image including position information for a plurality of surface points on a part of a patient's body, using a catheter navigation system to place a tool at a location on the surface of the patient's body, measuring position information for the surface location, identifying a corresponding location on the image, associating position information for the surface location and the location identified on the image as a fiducial pair, and using at least one fiducial pair to generate a mapping function. The mapping function transforms points within the coordinate system of the catheter navigation to the coordinate system of the three-dimensional image such that, for each fiducial pair, the mapping error is about zero. Suitable warping algorithms include thin plate splines, mean value coordinates, and radial basis function networks. | 09-11-2008 |
20080221426 | Methods and apparatus for detecting misapplied optical sensors - Methods and apparatus are described for sensing misplacement of an optical sensor on a patient. A wavelength of light which is particularly subject to absorption by a physiological characteristic of interest is used to compare to a reference to determine if the sensor placement is appropriate, such as to generate accurate readings. In one example, the intensity of a wavelength of light which is subject to absorption by bulk tissue, but less subject to absorption by oxygen in the blood will be detected to evaluate the placement of the sensor. | 09-11-2008 |
20080221427 | Cancellation of light shunting - There is provided a system and method for canceling shunted light. The method includes transmitting electromagnetic radiation at tissue of interest and generating a signal representative of detected electromagnetic radiation. A portion of the generated signal representing shunted light is canceled from the generated signal and the remaining portion of the generated signal is used to compute physiological parameters. | 09-11-2008 |
20080228061 | Method and Apparatus Providing Flexible Measurement Functionality for Medical Images - In a medical imaging system the flexibility and power of measurement tools is improved by making the measurements objects themselves, whereby flexible interaction is provided. The measurement objects ( | 09-18-2008 |
20080228062 | High Resolution Radio Frequency Medical Imaging and Therapy System - A method for imaging includes directing a plurality of radio frequency (RF) beams ( | 09-18-2008 |
20080234566 | Recognizing a real world fiducial in a patient image data - Medical apparatus is described including a fiducial component and a position sensor. The component is recognizable as at least a part of a fiducial when appearing in image data of a patient. The component is attachable to the patient. The sensor is attachable to the component at a predetermined location and orientation on the component or is capable of being positioned adjacent the fiducial component without attachment thereto at a predetermined location and orientation. A storage medium is described containing a program which instructs the computer to recognize a predetermined shape of each of at least one portion of a position sensor as at least a part of a real-world fiducial in image data of a patient. The position sensor is adapted to provide position data. Medical apparatus which includes the position sensor and the storage medium is also described. | 09-25-2008 |
20080234567 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A NONINVASIVE DIAGNOSIS OF INTERNAL BLEEDING - Exemplary apparatus and process can be provided for determining at least one characteristic of an anatomical structure. For example, it is possible to generate an acoustic wave in the anatomical structure using an opto-accoustic arrangement It is then possible to detect the acoustic wave and determine whether at least one blood pool is present at or in the anatomical structure as a function of at least one property of the acoustic wave. Further, it is possible to forward at least one first electro-magnetic radiation to at least one tissue of the anatomical structure, detect at least one second electro-magnetic radiation provided from the at least one tissue based on a motion of or within the at least one tissue to generate detection data, and determine the at least one characteristic of the at least one portion based on the detection data. | 09-25-2008 |
20080234568 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION MONITORING APPARATUS - A biological information monitoring apparatus highly precisely observes a clothed subject who is taking any desired posture. The apparatus acquires information on positional displacements of the surface of a living body, by generating a high-frequency electromagnetic wave to radiate it into air, detecting the electromagnetic wave scattered by the surface of the living body, computationally determining the changes with time of the positional displacements of the surface of the living body from the state of propagation of said electromagnetic wave and computationally determining characteristic quantities of vibrations of the living body such as the pulse or the respiration from the changes with time as biological information. | 09-25-2008 |
20080242967 | Medical imaging and therapy utilizing a scanned beam system operating at multiple wavelengths - An apparatus, for medically treating a patient, includes a scanned beam system including a radiation beam source assembly, a scanner, and a controller. The assembly is adapted to emit a radiation beam (such as, without limitation, a laser beam) at different wavelengths. The controller is operatively connected to the assembly and the scanner. The controller is adapted: to display an image of an area of the patient obtained by the scanned beam system; to receive from a user viewing the image an identification of an in-treatment region; and to control the assembly and the scanner to medically treat the in-treatment region using a therapeutic wavelength of the radiation beam which provides an increased scanned-beam-system-image contrast between the in-treatment region and an out-of-treatment region over another wavelength of the radiation beam available for therapy. A method for medically treating a patient using a scanned beam system is also disclosed. | 10-02-2008 |
20080242968 | Sequential image acquisition with updating method and system - In accordance with embodiments of the present, a method for acquiring an image is provided. The method comprises acquiring initial image data, identifying one or more regions of interest in at least one of the initial image data or in a first image generated from the initial image data. The method further comprises automatically deriving one or more scan parameters based upon the regions of interest, and acquiring second image data using the scan parameters. | 10-02-2008 |
20080242969 | Apparatus and method for determining an optimized path traversal for radiation treatment delivery system - An apparatus and method for determining optimized path traversal in a radiation delivery system is described. In one embodiment, determining an optimized path traversal in a radiation delivery system involves providing a plurality of spatial nodes used in a treatment plan, where each of the plurality of spatial nodes represents a position of a radiation source made available to the treatment plan for delivering radiation to a target, identifying a number of unused spatial nodes, from among the plurality of spatial nodes, at which radiation is not delivered according to the treatment plan, and skipping travel to one or more of the unused nodes by the radiation source when administering the treatment plan. Other embodiments are also described. | 10-02-2008 |
20080242970 | LOAD APPARATUS - An oscillation arm moves in a seesaw fashion about an oscillation axis which is supported by a support rod and which serves as a fulcrum. A rotation arm and a pressurizer are provided on one end of the oscillation arm. One end of the rotation arm is rotatably attached to the oscillation arm, and a load weight is placed on the other end of the rotation arm. By rotating the rotation arm, the magnitude of a force to be applied by the load weight to the pressurizer is adjusted. More specifically, by displacing the load weight to a predetermined position by rotation and then causing the load weight to stop at this position, a static load corresponding to the rotation angle can be applied to the pressurizer. Further, by causing the load weight to perform rotational motion, the magnitude of the force to be applied to the pressurizer is periodically varied, so that a load which varies periodically can be applied to hard tissue. | 10-02-2008 |
20080242971 | Image system for supporting the navigation of interventional tools - The invention relates to an image system and a method for supporting the navigation of interventional tools when performing imaging controlled minimally invasive interventions within the body of a patient in a predetermined intervention plane, which serves to improve the precision and reliability of interventional accesses that are required for performing a histological tissue sample removal under CT or MRT based image-oriented monitoring, or in the context of tumor therapy or pain therapy. Directional deviations, away from the intervention plane, of the actual course of an interventional tool from a predeterminable desired course are captured and presented for display by registering the shortened represented total length or a shortened represented partial length of this interventional tool in the 2D projection representation of a fluoroscopic radioscopy recording that was recorded in a 2D projection direction running normally relative to the intervention plane. | 10-02-2008 |
20080249394 | METHOD FOR IMPROVED ROTATIONAL ALIGNMENT IN JOINT ARTHROPLASTY - A method for improved rotational alignment of the bones in joint surgery is described. The method involves the tracking of the relative motion of a third bone in with respect to the movement of the first and second bone. In one aspect of the invention, the motion of the patella is used to derive the axis of rotation of the femoral and tibial components in total knee arthroplasty, either alone or in combination with other techniques. | 10-09-2008 |
20080255442 | REGISTRATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - Methods and systems for registering the position of a body part of a patient with a computer aided surgery system are described. A computer implemented method includes determining the position of a plurality of points of the body part, fitting the points to a representation of the body part, determining a closeness of fit for each of the points and displaying an indication of the closeness of fit. The system includes a tracking system for determining the position of an instrument engageable with a plurality of points of the body part and a control system. The control system is configured to determine the position of the plurality of points of the body part, fit the points to a representation of the body part, determine a closeness of fit for each of the points and display an indication of the closeness of fit for at least one of the points. | 10-16-2008 |
20080269588 | Intraoperative Image Registration - A system to allow registration of a patient to image space is disclosed. The registration can be performed without touching a plurality of fiducial points on the patient or in the image data. The registration process can eliminate manual steps of image to patient registration and image to image registration. | 10-30-2008 |
20080269589 | Apparatus for the Detection of Heart Activity - The invention relates to heart measurement and heart monitoring, in particular the measurement of mechanical heart activity, and includes a method and apparatus to using doppler radar to transmit an electromagnetic signal of a certain frequency into, and detect a reflected signal from out of, the chest of the individual, to processing the detected signal to produce an output signal representing the rate of change of the doppler signal associated with the reflected signal and to identify from the output signal a group of at least one characteristic point of the output signal, and further to calculate at least one parameter representative of heart activity, this calculation based on the at least one identified characteristic point. The apparatus provides a system for monitoring which is particularly suitable for use in the home and which does not require repeated use of impedance cardiograms which are inappropriate for use by untrained personnel. | 10-30-2008 |
20080269590 | MEDICAL INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING A MEDICAL INTERVENTION - A medical instrument for performing a medical intervention on a body region is provided. The medical instrument includes a sensor for recording tissue parameters of a body region to be treated using measuring techniques. | 10-30-2008 |
20080269591 | BAND STOP FILTER EMPLOYING A CAPACITOR AND AN INDUCTOR TANK CIRCUIT TO ENHANCE MRI COMPATIBILITY OF ACTIVE MEDICAL DEVICES - A band stop filter is provided for a lead wire of an active medical device (AMD). The band stop filter includes a capacitor in parallel with an inductor. The parallel capacitor and inductor are placed in series with the lead wire of the AMD, wherein values of capacitance and inductance are selected such that the band stop filter is resonant at a selected frequency. The Q of the inductor may be relatively maximized and the Q of the capacitor may be relatively minimized to reduce the overall Q of the band stop filter to attenuate current flow through the lead wire along a range of selected frequencies. In a preferred form, the band stop filter is integrated into a TIP and/or RING electrode for an active implantable medical device. | 10-30-2008 |
20080275328 | SENSING BODY FUNCTIONS - A body function sensor ( | 11-06-2008 |
20080281181 | Combination of Multi-Modality Imaging Technologies - Different applications for multiple imaging technologies are provided to advance patient care. In one aspect, a 3-D imaging device is used to identify the location of target region in a patient, such as a tumor or aneurysm, for instance. The location information is then used to control a device used in performing a surgical or other intervention, further imaging or a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure ( | 11-13-2008 |
20080281182 | Method and apparatus for improving and/or validating 3D segmentations - A method is provided for improving a segmentation of a 3D image and/or validating a segmentation of a 3D image includes rendering an acquired 3D image and a segmentation of the acquired 3D image on a segmentation display that has at least one spatially fixed slice and an interactive slice with a reference mark corresponding to the cursor location in the spatially fixed slice or slices on the display. The method further includes utilizing an interactive user input to update image data of the interactive slice and the reference mark to coincide with the cursor in the spatially fixed slice or slices. The method further includes using the cursor and the reference mark to verify that cursor locations on the boundaries of the segmentation of the acquired 3D image correspond to object boundaries in the image data of the interactive slice. | 11-13-2008 |
20080294032 | Spectral Imaging of Biological Samples - The invention features a method including: (i) providing spectrally resolved information about light coming from different spatial locations in a sample comprising deep tissue in response to an illumination of the sample, wherein the light includes contributions from different components in the sample; (ii) decomposing the spectrally resolved information for each of at least some of the different spatial locations into contributions from spectral estimates associated with at least some of the components in the sample; and (iii) constructing a deep tissue image of the sample based on the decomposition to preferentially show a selected one of the components. | 11-27-2008 |
20080294033 | Biological Signal Processing Unit, Wireless Memory, Biological Signal Processing System, And Control System Of Device To Be Controlled - It is an object to provide a means for easily operating various devices to be controlled (i.e. a word processor or a car) using a brain wave signal of a patient with Alzheimer's disease or a psychological disorder, and for supporting the active performance of a user by employing wireless communication with a memory (wireless memory) capable of communicating without wires in which a command on the human movement is memorized. A present biological signal processing unit has an electrode for detecting a biological signal (an electric signal) from a living body, or for transmitting an electric signal into a living body, an interface, and an antenna which can communicate with an external device (i.e. wireless memory, reader/writer); therefore, convenience of the user is improved in the case where a user utilizes an electronic device or the like. In addition, the active performance of a user can be supported. | 11-27-2008 |
20080300477 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CORRECTION OF AUTOMATED IMAGE REGISTRATION - An image guided surgical system and method for correction of automated image registration via user interaction. The system and method comprising at least one imaging apparatus adapted to acquire a first image and a second image of a region of interest of a subject, a registration component adapted to perform a registration of the second image to a dataset of the first image, at least one display for displaying a visualization of the registration of the second image to a dataset of the first image as it is occurring, and a user interface for manipulating the visualization of the registration to correct any misalignments between the first image and the second image in the registration. | 12-04-2008 |
20080300478 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING REAL-TIME STATE OF IMAGED ANATOMY DURING A SURGICAL PROCEDURE - A system and method for displaying surgical instruments accurately, in both time and space, within both slice and volumetric medical images of organs that may deform in a predictable manner over time due to an ongoing body activity. The system and method comprising using a gating signal associated with an ongoing body activity to determine which image in a sequence of acquired images best represents the state of the imaged anatomy at a given point in time and accurately displaying navigated surgical instruments within that image at that point in time. | 12-04-2008 |
20080306369 | DETACHABLE LATCHING MECHANISM - A detachable latching mechanism is disclosed herein. The latching mechanism for latching a first apparatus to a second apparatus comprises: a detachable housing configured to be attached to the first apparatus. The housing includes a first and second housing member forming a channel there between. The latching mechanism includes a first latch supported by the first housing member and biased to extend into the channel in a first direction and a second latch supported by the second housing member and biased to extend into the channel in a second direction opposite from the first direction. Further the latching mechanism is provided with a latching member having a first end configured to be attached to the second apparatus and a second end having a protrusion configured to push against the first and second latches to move them apart when the latching member is inserted into the channel. The movements of the latches are perpendicular to the movement of the latching member. | 12-11-2008 |
20080306370 | Method of examining dynamic cardiac electromagnetic activity and detection of cardiac functions using results thereof - A method of examining cardiac electromagnetic activity over a heart for diagnosing the cardiac functions of the heart is disclosed. The method may include constructing a phase diagram of electromagnetic signals over a heart by collecting sets of time-dependent magnetic signals, determining the zeroth and the first derivations of each set of the magnetic signals at a given time, and categorizing the zeroth and the first derivations of the magnetic signals in either of the four phases: (+, +), (−, −), (+, −), (−, +). The method may also include monitoring a wave propagation of the magnetic signals. | 12-11-2008 |
20080306371 | INTRAVITAL-INFORMATION IMAGING APPARATUS - An intravital-information imaging apparatus includes light sources for irradiating a living body with light, and acoustic-wave detectors that detect acoustic waves generated from a light absorber having absorbed part of energy of the light from the light sources, the light absorber existing in the living body. Furthermore, the intravital-information imaging apparatus includes signal processors that calculate information representing a distribution of optical characteristic values of the living body using sound pressures of the acoustic waves generated from the light absorber. | 12-11-2008 |
20080306372 | BIOLOGICAL-INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREOF - A biological-information obtaining apparatus includes a light-emitting unit, an image sensor configured to capture images, in time sequence, relating to a living body, a lens, an extreme-occurrence-time obtaining unit configured to obtain times T | 12-11-2008 |
20080306373 | Swallowing test apparatus - Disclosed is a swallowing test apparatus including a laryngeal part displacement detection apparatus for detecting a distance of two positions located laterally at a laryngeal part of a subject, a swallowing sound detection apparatus for detecting a swallowing sound of the patient during swallowing, a display, a processing apparatus for displaying a waveform representing the distance of the two positions at the laryngeal part generated based on a signal obtained from the laryngeal part displacement detection apparatus, and a waveform representing the swallowing sound generated based on a signal obtained from the swallowing sound detection apparatus on the display. | 12-11-2008 |
20080319299 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING POSITIONING OF A NONINVASIVE ANALYZER SAMPLE PROBE - The invention relates generally to a probe interface method and apparatus for use in conjunction with an optical based noninvasive analyzer. More particularly, an algorithm controls a sample probe position and attitude relative to a skin sample site before and/or during sampling. For example, a sample probe head of a sample module is controlled by an algorithm along the normal-to-skin-axis. Preferably, the sample probe head is positioned in terms of 3-D location in the x-, y-, and z-axes and is attitude orientated in terms of pitch, yaw, and roll. Further, attitude of the probe head is preferably orientated prior to contact of the sample probe head with the tissue sample using indicators, such as non-contact distance feedback from capacitance sensor, contacting or non-contacting optical sensors, and/or contact electrical sensors. | 12-25-2008 |
20080319300 | Medical Imaging System - Medical imaging system, comprising a movable part ( | 12-25-2008 |
20090005668 | Non-invasive method for using 2D angiographic images for radiosurgical target definition - A non-invasive method and system for using 2D angiographic images for radiosurgical target definition uses non-invasive calibration devices and methods to calibrate an angiographic imaging system and a six-parameter registration algorithm to register angiographic images with 3D scan data for radiation treatment planning. | 01-01-2009 |
20090005669 | System and method for performing remote radiological examinations - A system and method is disclosed for enabling the planning and conduct of patient examinations by an imaging modality, where a remotely located technician plans and conducts at least part of the examination protocol. A local facility may have an imaging modality such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment, and a portion of the preparation for, and conduct of, the data acquisition may be performed by a local technician. The remotely located technician may control one or more of the data acquisition parameters, the timing of the administering of contrast agents, and the modification of values of data acquisition parameters during the course of the image data acquisition by the imaging modality. | 01-01-2009 |
20090012382 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTION OF OBSTRUCTIONS IN VASCULATURE - A method for automatic detection of obstructions in vasculature in an anatomical region is presented. The method includes partitioning the anatomical region into a plurality of sub-regions based at least in part on anatomical knowledge. Further, the method includes adaptively computing a threshold intensity value corresponding to each of the plurality of sub-regions. Additionally, the method includes extracting the vasculature in each of the plurality of sub-regions based on the corresponding computed threshold intensity value, where the extracted vasculature comprises a plurality of vessel segments. The method also includes detecting an obstruction in the extracted vasculature. Systems and computer-readable medium that afford functionality of the type defined by this method is also contemplated in conjunction with the present technique. | 01-08-2009 |
20090012383 | Methods and systems for volume fusion in diagnostic imaging - Methods and systems for automatically fusing images are provided. The method includes acquiring scan data from a first imaging modality and fusing scan data from a second modality with the scan data from the first modality as scan data from the second modality is acquired and the method further includes displaying reconstructed images of the fused data. | 01-08-2009 |
20090018429 | Method and system for acquiring biosignals in the presence of HF interference - The present invention, herein is a method and apparatus that significantly limits the effect of high frequency (“HF”) interferences on acquired electro-physiological signals, such as the EEG and EMG. Preferably, this method comprises of two separate electronic circuitries and steps or electronics for processing the signals. One circuit is used to block the transmission of HF interferences to the instrumentation amplifiers. It is comprised of a front-end active filter, a low frequency electromagnetic interference (“EMI”) shield, and an isolation barrier interface which isolates the patient from earth ground. The second circuit is used to measure the difference in potential between the two isolated sides of the isolation barrier. This so-called “cross-barrier” voltage is directly representative of the interference level that the instrumentation amplifier is subjected to. This circuit is used to confirm that the acquired signals are not corrupted by the interference. | 01-15-2009 |
20090018430 | METHOD FOR PRODUCING A MEDICAL IMAGE AND AN IMAGING DEVICE - A method for examining a patient in a medical imaging device is provided. The method includes measuring a pressure inside the body of the patient over a period of time during the examination, recording measurement data originating in the patient while the examination is in progress, reconstructing the medical image from the recorded measurement data, wherein the recording of the measurement data is controlled by the measured pressure and/or wherein the measured pressure is taken into account while the medical image is being reconstructed from the recorded measurement data. | 01-15-2009 |
20090018431 | Method and apparatus for imaging functional processes in the brain - A method and an apparatus are disclosed for imaging functional processes in the brain. In order to be able to correlate the results of MEG examinations with anatomical information and metabolic data, a positron emission tomography measurement is recorded in at least one embodiment by at least one radiation detector, a magnetic resonance imaging measurement is recorded by a coil and a radio-frequency antenna device and a magnetoencephalography measurement is recorded by a plurality of magnetic field sensors, the positron emission tomography measurement and the magnetic resonance imaging measurement being substantially undertaken at the same time, so that the records of the positron emission tomography measurement and the magnetic resonance tomography measurement are isocentric. In at least one embodiment, an evaluation apparatus is provided for carrying out a spatial correlation between the magnetoencephalography measurement and the magnetic resonance imaging measurement, so that registration between the magnetoencephalography measurement and the positron emission tomography measurement results. | 01-15-2009 |
20090024018 | Anatomical imaging system - Embodiments include a medical device, an apparatus, and a method. The medical device includes a tube portion shaped and sized for airway passage insertion and having at least one pathway therethrough; and a stylet of at least one shape-transforming material, configured for insertion in one of said at least one pathway; and at least one sensor carried by the tube portion and the stylet. The apparatus includes a stylet having a first end and a second end, at least a portion of the stylet including a shape-transforming material, the stylet being configured for insertion through an airway intubation structure having at least one pathway therethrough; and at least one sensor carried by the stylet in a proximity to the first end. The method includes capturing an image adjacent to an airway tube proximate to an airway passage; and actuating, in response to the image, at least one shape-transformation of the airway tube. | 01-22-2009 |
20090030301 | Method of examining dynamic cardiac electromagnetic activity and detection of cardiac functions using results thereof - A method of examining cardiac electromagnetic activity over a heart for diagnosing the cardiac functions of the heart is disclosed. The method includes collecting a plurality of sets of spatially distributed, time-varying magnetic field signals of the heart of a subject, wherein the magnetic field signals exhibit features of at least a wave, identifying a time corresponding to a local maximum intensity of the magnetic field signals of the wave at each measurement position and plotting a temporal evolution of the local maximum intensity of the magnetic field signals during a time interval of the wave. | 01-29-2009 |
20090043187 | Method for assessing a rupture risk of an aneurysm of a patient and associated system - A method for assessing a rupture risk of at least one aneurysm of a patient, with the rupture risk being assessed by a computing device as a function of at least one personal factor specific to the patient and at least one anatomy-linked factor relevant to the anatomy of the and/or in the area of the at least one aneurysm and at least one simulation-linked factor determined with reference to at least one simulation carried out by means of the computing device and/or a further computing device and based on anatomical data for the at least one aneurysm. | 02-12-2009 |
20090054755 | MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM - A medical imaging system by which in order that image data generated by an image generating apparatus and patient information are efficiently associated with each other while the doctor is examining the patient, an on-line button is blinking on receiving the image data or examination data when a screen showing information on the specified patient is displayed, the received data is automatically associated with the designated patient information and stored in an image DB when the blinking on-line button is depressed, and the received data is temporarily stored in a temporary storage section for storing data waiting for association with the patient information when the blinking on-line button is held depressed long. | 02-26-2009 |
20090062637 | Electromagnetic Sensors for Tissue Characterization - A sensor for tissue characterization is provided, comprising: a resonator, configured to be placed proximally to an edge of a tissue for characterization, without penetrating the tissue, the resonator comprising a conductive structure associated with a diameter-equivalent dimension D, in a plane substantially parallel with the edge, and with a feature size d; and at least one conductive lead, for providing communication with an external system, wherein the resonator is configured to resonate at a frequency which corresponds to a free-air wavelength range of between about lambda and about 40 lambda, wherein lambda is at least about ten times the diameter-equivalent D, and wherein upon receiving a signal in the range of between about lambda and about 40 lambda, the sensor is configured to induce electric and magnetic fields, in a near zone, in the tissue, the near zone having a diameter of about D, so that the tissue in the near zone effectively functions as part of the resonator, influencing its resonating values, and so the tissue in the near zone is thereby characterized by its electromagnetic properties, by the resonating response of the resonator. | 03-05-2009 |
20090062638 | Medical Diagostic Device Comprising an Operating Element for Controlling System Components - The invention relates to a medical diagnostic device comprising an operating element for controlling system components of the medical diagnostic device, said device comprising at least one operating lever which is embodied in such a way that it has at least one feature which is characteristic of the associated system component and is, for example, designed in such a way that it is congruent to the system component. In this way, the operating lever has a form adapted to that of the real system components or has the same form as said components. | 03-05-2009 |
20090069660 | Medical device and method for operating a medical device - The possibility for receiving and processing data from an analytical chip (“lab-on-a-chip”) is integrated into a medical device, such as for example an X-ray imaging system. This means quite simply that it is possible at the medical device to make a diagnosis which could otherwise only be made by a laboratory. There is a separate processor unit, a separate memory a separate input/output unit, adapted to the analytical chip, and a display unit displays both image data from the X-ray imaging system and also analytical data. | 03-12-2009 |
20090076368 | Integrated imaging workstation and a method for improving, objectifying and documenting in vivo examinations of the uterus - Exemplary embodiments provide an imaging workstation with improved ergonomics, and a method for improving, objectifying and documenting in vivo examinations of the uterus. The imaging workstation may include an imaging head and a display, and may include mechanical supporting structures that allow the imaging head, display, and examination area to be simultaneously placed in an examiner's field of view. The imaging workstation may include means for the uniform application of a diagnostic marker. The method may involve acquiring a reference image of a tissue surface, applying a diagnostic marker and initiating image acquisition, acquiring tissue images in time sequence, aligning the captured images, and calculating dynamic optical curves and dynamic optical parameters from the images. The curves and parameters may be used to create a pseudocolor map representing different functional or structural features represented in the images, or different pathologies. | 03-19-2009 |
20090076369 | Method For Reducing Motion Artifacts In Highly Constrained Medical Images - A composite image is produced for use in HYPR processing a current image frame. The amount of a priori data used to form the composite is determined by the amount of subject motion. The current composite image may be spatially registered with the current image frame to offset subject motion before being used to form an updated composite image. Subject motion may be analyzed on a frame-by-frame basis, a region-by-region basis or a pixel-by-pixel basis to optimize the SNR of the updated composite image. | 03-19-2009 |
20090076370 | System and method for determining in vivo body lumen conditions - Provided are a system and method for in vivo and in situ detection of body lumen conditions. The system comprises at least one interaction chamber for containing an endo-luminal sample, the interaction chamber comprising at least one indicator; at least one light source for illuminating the interaction chamber; and at least one optical detector for detecting in vivo optical changes occurring in the interaction chamber. The reaction between the indicator and sample may result in an optical change, which is detected and possibly imaged by the optical detector. | 03-19-2009 |
20090076371 | Joint and Cartilage Diagnosis, Assessment and Modeling - Methods for assessing the condition of a cartilage in a joint and assessing cartilage loss, particularly in a human knee, are disclosed. In one method, a method for modeling healthy cartilage, the method includes measuring the distance between each of at least two points on an articular cartilage surface corresponding to margins of a defect and a corresponding point on the sub-chondral bone surface, and interpolating a reconstructed cartilage boundary. In a second method, a method for generating a three-dimensional approximation of healthy cartilage, the method includes determining a set of distances between at least three points on a first articular surface corresponding to margins of a defect and at least three corresponding points on a second cartilage surface, and approximating a reconstructed cartilage surface. | 03-19-2009 |
20090088620 | QUANTITATIVE CLINICAL AND PRE-CLINICAL IMAGING - In a clinical or preclinical imaging system, an image acquisition subsystem includes a data acquisition and image reconstruction elements generating clinical or preclinical images. A quantitative image processing subsystem generates variability metadata associated with the clinical or preclinical images, and a clinically or preclinically significant result with an associated confidence interval computed based on the variability metadata. A user interface displays the clinically or preclinically significant result together with the associated confidence interval. A phantom for calibrating such an imaging system includes a deformable nonbiological structure approximating structure of a clinical or preclinical subject to be imaged, and fiducial markers detectable by the imaging system disposed on or in the deformable nonbiological structure to move with deformation of the deformable nonbiological structure. | 04-02-2009 |
20090088621 | Reference Height Calibration Scheme For Modular Multi-Modality Medical Imaging System - A reference height calibration procedure obtains a reference error value, which can be used to adjust a height calibration parameter for registering the fields of view (FOVs) of the modules of a multi-modality medical imaging system such as a SPECT-CT imaging system. | 04-02-2009 |
20090093699 | METHOD FOR MONITORING MYOCARDIAL WALL THICKNESS - A method for monitoring left ventricular (LV) myocardial wall thickness. The method includes: obtaining real time images of a periodically spatially changing myocardium and segmenting the myocardium in such images; calculating wall thickness of the myocardium from each one of the obtained images; and performing a dynamic harmonic analysis of the calculated thickness to determine spatial changes in the thickness of the wall of the myocardium. The method applies the calculated wall thickness to a predictor to determine changes in the thickness of the wall of the myocardium. The method applies the calculated wall thickness to a predictor to determine the periodicity the myocardium. | 04-09-2009 |
20090093700 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MULTI-MODAL IMAGING USING NANOPARTICLE MULTI-MODAL IMAGING PROBES - An apparatus for multimodal imaging of an object includes a support stage for receiving an object to be imaged; an object supported on the stage, a light source for producing a beam to illuminate the object; a filter positioned to receive and pass the beam toward the object; and a lens and camera system for capturing an image of the object. The apparatus may include a tiltable filter for filtering light from the source. The apparatus may include a mechanism for selectively directing light from the light source through a first filter assembly to produce a first beam of light of a first frequency range for illuminating an object on the stage in a first imaging mode or through a second filter assembly to produce a second beam of light of a second frequency range for illuminating an object on the stage in a second imaging mode, so that the lens and camera system captures light from the object illuminated by either the first or second beam of light to produce a first image in response to the first beam and a second image, different from the first image, in response to the second image. An x-ray source and phosphor plate may be included to provide an additional imaging mode. | 04-09-2009 |
20090093701 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SCANNING A SUBJECT - In a patient scanner and method, a scan image is registered with a reference image and superimposed. In an iterative process the images are normalized and the transparency varied to assist in the identification of abnormalities. | 04-09-2009 |
20090093702 | DETERMINING AND IDENTIFYING CHANGES IN THE POSITION OF PARTS OF A BODY STRUCTURE - The present invention relates to a method for determining and/or identifying a change in the position of a part of a body structure relative to a marker device by means of a data processing device, comprising the steps of:
| 04-09-2009 |
20090105578 | Interactive Medical Imaging Processing and User Interface System - An interactive medical user interface system presents a user interactive image window, including a distribution curve of an organ section area over a heart beat cycle time and supports a desired clinical workflow. An interactive medical image processing and user interface system for use in patient organ imaging includes an image data processor. The image data processor processes data representing multiple images of an organ of a patient over the heart beat cycle of the patient to derive data representing a distribution curve of an organ section area over a heart beat cycle time. A user interface generates data representing a composite user interface display image including, a first user interactive image window presenting the distribution curve and a second image window presenting an image of the organ corresponding to a location on the distribution curve interactively selected by a user via the first user interactive image window. | 04-23-2009 |
20090118606 | MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM - An autonomous medical imaging system includes at least one autonomous imaging subsystem and at least one autonomous detection subsystem. The autonomous detection subsystem is configured to communicate with the autonomous imaging subsystem, and the autonomous imaging subsystem is configured to communicate with the autonomous detection subsystem. | 05-07-2009 |
20090124882 | OSSEO CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - An osseo classification and digital modality modeling system includes a computer with a digital memory adapted for storing patient densitometry information, an input and an output. An input subsystem includes a pair of source/receptor units mounted on a signal positioning subsystem, which is adapted for moving the source/receptor units through predetermined paths of movement, which can be circular or linear. The resulting tomographic data is synthesized to form any 3-D model or image, which is output for further analysis and classifying osseo structure and/or prosthetic osseointegration. An osseo classification and digital tomosynthesis method includes the steps of moving a pair of sensor/receptor units relative to a patient. The resulting signals output by the receptor are digitized and synthesized to form a 3-D image or model. Multiple depths of penetration and multiple widths can be captured from single acquisitions using digital tomosynthesis signal processing techniques. Osseo structure and/or prosthetic osseointegration is classified using the densitometry data. | 05-14-2009 |
20090124883 | AIRWAY BYPASS SITE SELECTION AND TREATMENT PLANNING - This invention relates to systems and methods for site selection and placement of extra-anatomic passages altering gaseous flow in a diseased lung. | 05-14-2009 |
20090131780 | ARM POSITIONER FOR DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE - An arm positioning system for a diagnostic procedure such as an MRI can include a positioning block and a retention device (such as a thumb strap). The retention device and the positioning block can be coupled together (e.g. by hook and loop fasteners) to allow them to position a patient's arm in various desired positions. The retention device and positioning block can be composed of materials that do not interfere with the diagnostic device. The retention device and positioning block also can be configured to accommodate left and right arms and variation among arm, hand, and digit sizes of patients. | 05-21-2009 |
20090137893 | ADDING IMAGING CAPABILITY TO DISTAL TIPS OF MEDICAL TOOLS, CATHETERS, AND CONDUITS - One or more scan illuminators and a plurality of light receivers are provided on the distal end of a tool or other component, so that a plurality of images of a site can be provided in response to output signals from the plurality of light receivers. The output signals from the plurality of light receivers are combined to produce an overall image of the site or a plurality of different images from disparate positions. The plurality of images can be viewed separately to produce a stereo or perspective view, or can be produced using different wavebands of light to provide enhanced information about the site that facilitates use of one or more tools or components at the site. The scan illuminator(s) and plurality of light receivers can be configured to be added to an existing tool or component. | 05-28-2009 |
20090137894 | Breast measurement device and bra fitting system - A breast measurement device and method of accurately measuring a bra for a woman by submerging the woman's upper torso in a body of water that allows the buoyancy of each breast to lift and re-conform the breasts to their natural shape. A scanning machine is then used to measure the woman's upper torso and the submerged, lifted breasts to obtain their exact size, volume and location which then can be used to select a properly fitting bra which holds and supports the breasts in their natural position. In the preferred embodiment, the system will include a transparent tank filled with water in which a woman sits upright. A scanning machine then moves around tank and aimed at the woman's upper torso and the breasts. A digital file is then created and stored that is then used to select a proper fitting bra. | 05-28-2009 |
20090137895 | REAL-TIME DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM EMPLOYING NON-INVASIVE METHOD TO ANALYZE ELECTRO-MAGNETIC FIELD RADIATED FROM A SUBJECT AND THE VARIATION THEREOF - The present invention relates to a real-time disease diagnostic system employing a non-invasive method capable of analyzing of an electromagnetic field and variations thereof radiated from a subject. The disease diagnostic system detects a micro electromagnetic field and variations thereof radiated from bio-action potential of the living tissue, such as cells, tissues, organs and the like of a subject, as a capacitance and variations thereof using a single- or multi-channel biosensor and the disease diagnostic system including the biosensor. The disease diagnostic system analyzes the frequency obtained according to the capacitance and variations thereof and diagnoses proliferative diseases characteristic of an abnormal cell proliferation by diagnosing whole body using a non-invasive method in a short time of 10 min to 1 hour without any side effects. The disease diagnostic system displays the result of diagnosis in the form of a numerical value, sound or three-dimensional image in real time. The disease diagnosis system may be used without any of the doctor's orders for the subject, i.e., an empty stomach or taking medicine, and used to easily confirm the removal of cancer cell by surgery and the process of treatment. Therefore, the disease diagnosis system can be useful to diagnose various diseases at an early stage in a more accurate and safe manner. | 05-28-2009 |
20090143664 | IDENTIFICATION MECHANISM FOR A COMPONENT ATTACHED TO A MEDICAL DEVICE - The invention relates to the identification of a component of a medical device. The medical device is realized for the alternative attachment of a plurality of components. By means of infrared reflection sensors an emitted signal that is reflected by an attached component is detected. The reflected signal has a shape that is characteristic of the component. The component is identified through determination by the infrared reflection sensors that detect a reflected signal. The invention allows for alternative components that can be attached to be identified efficiently and with little outlay. | 06-04-2009 |
20090149732 | System for use of electrical resonant frequencies in analyzing and treating abnormality of human and animal tissues - A system for use of electrical resonant frequencies in analyzing and treating abnormality of human and animal tissue includes elements for generating an EM wave having a selectable ratio of capacitance to inductance, modulated in a selectable electrical resonance (ER) frequency relative to the tissue, the tissue to be treated across an EM spectrum of between about 10 Hz and about 500 MHz; elements for measuring resultant ER phases and peaks of a responsive signal emitted by the tissue, in which each peak represents a potential in-phase or out-of-phase ER relative to an established normal phase of such tissue, each ER defining a waveform in which out-of-phase ER is associated with a tissue abnormality; and elements for delivery and applying to the tissue a waveform substantially inverse to that of out-of-phase waveforms to decrease or nullify ER peaks associated with the abnormality of tissue. | 06-11-2009 |
20090182218 | SENSOR FOR DETECTING BIOLOGICAL ELECTRO-MAGNETIC SIGNAL AND THE DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE USING THE SAME - The invention relates to a material for the detection of biological electro-magnetic signals made of a epidermis of a living organism and a diagnostic device using the same, and more particularly, to a material for the detection of biological electro-magnetic signals made of a epidermis of a living organism, through drying is one stage, also selecting is another stage of production, and a diagnostic device using the same. The material of the invention has an effect of detecting biological electro-magnetic signals. Accordingly, the material for the detection of biological electro-magnetic signals of the invention can be used for manufacturing a diagnostic device for detecting biological electro-magnetic signals non-invasively as well as effectively used in diagnosis in cases where biological electro-magnetic signals are changed by cancer, inflammations due to immunodeficiency and so on. | 07-16-2009 |
20090182219 | Method for planning a combined examination of an examination object - A method for planning a combined examination of an examination object using two imaging modalities is disclosed, with measurements being taken in at least two regions of the examination object. In at least one embodiment, the method includes planning of at least one measuring protocol of the first modality, which includes at least one measurement in a first of the regions and at least one measurement in a second of the regions; planning of at least one measuring protocol of the second modality, which comprises at least one measurement in the first region; and automatic production of a combined measuring sequence by arranging the measurements in such a manner that carrying out the measuring sequence taking into account modality preparations to be carried out between measurements takes as little time as possible. | 07-16-2009 |
20090203986 | Medical data collection device - A medical data collection device is comprised of a head unit and a base unit. The head unit collects patient data and transmits the data to the base unit. The base unit captures, stores and processes the data A display on the base unit shows the captured data and allows the user to control the data. | 08-13-2009 |
20090203987 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO DETERMINE A POSITION SHIFT OF A FOCAL AREA - In a method and device for determination of a position shift, first image data of a body region of a treatment-positioned patient that contain derivable temperature information are acquired. A focal area in the body region is determined, and the focus of a hyperthermia applicator can be aligned on the focal area. Second image data of the body region of the treatment-positioned patient that contain derivable temperature information are acquired, and a position shift of the focal area is determined by a comparison of the second image data with the first image data. | 08-13-2009 |
20090209841 | RADIATION IMAGING SYSTEM AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE DIAGNOSIS INSTRUMENT THEREFOR - A radiation imaging system is configured by a collimator | 08-20-2009 |
20090221898 | Shaped surgical tool - A custom medical device may be fabricated based on a patient image with a rapid prototyping machine. | 09-03-2009 |
20090221899 | MINIMALLY INVASIVE RECTAL BALLOON APPARATUS WITH PRESSURE RELIEVING LUMEN AND ANAL VERGE DILATION COLLAR - A rectal balloon apparatus has a shaft with a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A balloon is affixed over an end of the shaft such that the fluid passageway communicates with an interior of the balloon. A collar is affixed around the shaft which is suitable for dilating a patient's anal verge. The collar is a color distinct from the colors of the balloon and the shaft. The collar has a first section hingedly connected to a second section so as to allow the collar to be selectively affixed to the shaft. The collar has an outer diameter that is roughly twice an outer diameter of the shaft. The collar can be snap-fitted around the shaft. | 09-03-2009 |
20090240132 | Antenna for thoracic radio interrogation - An antenna includes an antenna layer, a ground layer and a dielectric layer between the antenna layer and the ground layer. The antenna layer and the ground layer form a figure in the shape of two identical mirror image triangles joined together at a longest side of each one of the triangles where each side of each triangle is a different length. | 09-24-2009 |
20090240133 | Apparatus and method for non-invasive, in-vivo, thoracic radio interrogation - A radio apparatus and method for non-invasive, thoracic radio interrogation of a subject for the collection of hemodynamic, respiratory and/or other cardiopulmonary related data from the subject includes a antenna positionable proximally to the subject, a radio transmitter transmitting an unmodulated radio interrogation signal of a predetermined fixed frequency at a safe level of about 1 milliwatt or less from the antenna into the subject and a radio receiver capturing through the antenna, reflections of the transmitted radio interrogation signal returned from the subject. A Doppler component of the reflections contains the data that can be extracted from the captured reflections. | 09-24-2009 |
20090240134 | Method of processing thoracic reflected radio interrogation signals - A method of evaluating or monitoring the medical state of a subject comprising the steps of: providing a radio frequency interrogation interference signal from a subject, the radio frequency interrogation interference signal being low frequency components of reflections of a radio interrogation signal transmitted into the thorax of the subject; and determining at least one cardiac or respiratory characteristic of the subject from radio frequency interrogation interference signal. The characteristic can be compared to predetermined values to assess current state or monitored for changes over time to assess change in condition of the subject. | 09-24-2009 |
20090253978 | Graphical User Interfaces (GUI), Methods And Apparatus For Data Presentation - A graphical user interface (GUI) including: (a) a group definition module adapted to accept a user input defining groups; (b) a data receiver operable to receive a plurality of individual measurement input datum indicative of status of a substrate; (c) a grouping module configured to assign each of said individual measurement input datum to one of said groups to produce grouped data; and (d) an output module adapted to output the grouped data. | 10-08-2009 |
20090264728 | BIOLOGY GUIDED ADAPTIVE THERAPY PLANNING - A therapy system ( | 10-22-2009 |
20090270712 | MARGIN DETERMINATION/TUMOR CELL MIGRATION - A method for identifying target regions in a tissue for local drug delivery, wherein functional and/or structural anatomical data such as edema and/or resection cavity is captured by an imaging system, and wherein the anatomical data is evaluated by segmentation techniques such as region-growing-based methods with computer assistance to determine a margin around a resection cavity and/or the volume of edema, the margin and/or the volume of edema being the target tissue for local drug delivery. | 10-29-2009 |
20090281411 | HAND-HELD ELECTRIC FIELD IMAGER FOR MEASURING THE ELECTRIC FIELD IN MAMMALIAN SKIN AND OTHER EPITHELIAL STRUCTURES - The present invention provides a hand-held, noninvasive diagnostic device for measuring the electric fields in mammalian skin and other epithelial structures. The device includes an outer housing that contacts the skin, providing stability and allowing the device to move along with minor movement of the skin. Recessed within the outer housing is a probe that acts as a sensor to measure the electric field in the skin through an aperture in the bottom surface of the outer housing. By applying a series of known voltages while the probe is vibrating, the skin's local surface potential can be measured and the lateral electric field can be calculated from the spatial distribution of surface potential measurements. Active feedback is used to maintain a constant distance between the probe and the skin surface. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281412 | System, devices, and methods for detecting occlusions in a biological subject - Systems, devices, and methods are described for detecting an embolus, thrombus, or a deep vein thrombus in a biological subject. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281413 | Systems, devices, and methods for detecting occlusions in a biological subject - Systems, devices, and methods are described for detecting an embolus, thrombus, or a deep vein thrombus in a biological subject. | 11-12-2009 |
20090287076 | System, devices, and methods for detecting occlusions in a biological subject - Systems, devices, and methods are described for detecting an embolus, thrombus, or a deep vein thrombus in a biological subject. | 11-19-2009 |
20090292195 | System, devices, and methods for detecting occlusions in a biological subject including spectral learning - Systems, devices, and methods are described for detecting an embolus, thrombus, or a deep vein thrombus in a biological subject. | 11-26-2009 |
20090292196 | Electron Avalanche Putative Energy Field Analyzer - A device and method of detecting and analyzing a vital field places an avalanche diode in the path of vital waves in the vital field. The vital waves interfere with the electron avalanche process in the avalanche diode. Control circuitry and an avalanche initiator cause electron avalanches at a known sampling frequency. The interference from the vital waves produces a beat frequency that is output from the avalanche diode. By adjusting the sampling rate by a known amount, a second beat frequency is produced and the beat frequency shift is used to determine the input frequency of the vital waves. The vital waves are very weak and produce frequencies into the terahertz range, so that the input frequency is undersampled by the device. Further, high sensitivity is required and a circuit design is implemented to maximize sensitivity while minimizing noise and other interference that is common to avalanche diode operation. | 11-26-2009 |
20090312624 | ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL SCREENS FOR COGNITIVE MODULATORS - Methods, apparatuses, and systems for analysis of electromagnetic activity of prefrontal cortex neurons in subjects are provided. The methods, apparatuses, and systems of the present invention can be used as a means to screen for cognitive modulators. They can be used to predict the effects of compounds such as psychostimulants and other drugs on prefrontal cortex-dependent cognition. | 12-17-2009 |
20090326358 | Non-invasive fast-response biodosimeter - Our invention disclosures a biodosimeter and method of measurements a dose of radiation and/or biological-chemical substances absorbed by human or animal body, microbes, plants. The invention describes a multiparametric analysis system to evaluate biochemical and physical patterns related to a range of doses of radiation and/or biological-chemical substances following exposure of human body by radiation and/or biological-chemical substances. In our invention we also propose to use a method of plasmon enhancement by which intrinsic biomolecular targets within human body may increase their fluorescence QY close to unity, especially for the variety of biochemicals. The disclosed robust biodosimeter provides fast-response field applications to normal populations exposed to radiation and/or biological-chemical substances release, and to first-responders evaluating those normal populations. | 12-31-2009 |
20090326359 | METHOD OF IN VIVO DETECTION AND/OR DIAGNOSIS OF CANCER USING FLUORESCENCE BASED DNA IMAGE CYTOMETRY - The invention relates to a method of determining in vivo in a human or animal subject the amount of nuclear DNA by first localizing cell nuclei of living tissue and subsequently measuring the nuclear UV absorbance using confocal scanning microscopy. The invention relates also to a method for detecting cancerous cells in vivo in a human or animal subject by first identifying the localization of cell nuclei in living tissue and subsequently determining the nuclear UV absorbance by laser scanning confocal microscopy. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of diagnosing cancer in a human or animal subject in vivo relying on a combination of identifying the localization of cell nuclei in living tissue and measuring nuclear UV absorbance by laser scanning confocal microscopy. | 12-31-2009 |
20100004526 | ABNORMALITY FINDING IN PROJECTION IMAGES - The present invention includes a utility for determining the severity of a stenosis in a blood vessel. In one aspect, a method for improving DSA image quality includes: (1) registration of the mask and bolus images prior to subtracting procedure to reduce the artifacts from misalignment; (2) enhancement of the registered DSA image by an anisotropic diffusion technique and a nonlinear normalization technique; and (3) detecting the boundary of blood vessel and quantitatively measuring percentage stenosis, which may be done automatically. | 01-07-2010 |
20100010335 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DIAGNOSING CANCER USING ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE - A cancer diagnostic apparatus using electromagnetic waves includes: a plurality of antennas configured to transmit an electromagnetic wave signal to a human body and receive the electromagnetic wave signal from the human body; a switching unit configured to switch the antennas to a transmit mode or a receive mode; a signal generator configured to generate an electromagnetic wave signal to be transmitted to an antenna set to the transmit mode; a signal converter configured to convert an electromagnetic wave signal received from an antenna set to the receive mode into an intermediate frequency signal; and a controller including a switching controller to control the switching unit and a data processor to process a permittivity distribution image of the human body from the intermediate frequency signal. | 01-14-2010 |
20100016705 | SURGICAL ORIENTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for detecting and measuring changes in angular position with respect to a reference plane is useful in surgical procedures for orienting various instruments, prosthesis, and implants with respect to anatomical landmarks. One embodiment of the device uses dual orientation devices of a type capable of measuring angular position changes from a reference position. One such device provides information as to changes in position of an anatomical landmark relative to a reference position. The second device provides information as to changes in position of a surgical instrument and/or prosthesis relative to the reference position. | 01-21-2010 |
20100022866 | TORSIONAL SUPPORT APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CRANIOCAUDAL ROTATION OF ANIMALS - A torsional support apparatus is disclosed for craniocaudal rotation of test animals to enable multiple-view imaging. The animal is supported in a U-shaped loop of optically transparent material and the loop is moved to apply torsion to the animal to rotate it about its craniocaudal axis. Methods of imaging also are disclosed that use the torsional support technique. | 01-28-2010 |
20100030057 | IMAGING CATHETER - A catheter for conveying flowables in or out of the body, be they gases or liquids. The catheter has a triangular lumen and optional auxiliary structures. One optional element is guide engaging for employing a guide for placing the catheter. Another element is a secondary lumen disposed within the wall of the tube. The camera and lighting devices at the tip of the catheter are mounted on a partially flexible PCB and packaged in the tube permitting all elements to point substantially forwards. | 02-04-2010 |
20100030058 | Methods of Treating Wrinkles, Developing Wrinkle Treatments And Evaluating Treatment Efficacy, Based On Newly Discovered Similarities Between Wrinkles And Skin Wounds - Disclosed are methods of measuring an endogenous wrinkle electric field and methods of characterizing topical applications, or other treatments, in terms of their effect on the endogenous electric field of wrinkles. Also included, are methods of developing topical applications, or other treatments that have a desired effect on the endogenous electric field of a wrinkle. The methods disclosed herein, are based on a new model of wrinkle physiology that exploits previously unknown similarities between skin wounds and wrinkles. | 02-04-2010 |
20100030059 | Method for Measuring Information of Biological Systems - The invention relates to a method for measuring information of biological systems. The aim of the invention is to receive signals using less energy. To achieve this, random generators are used as receivers (B) of low-energy quanta, since the random generators can be regarded and implemented as antennae and receivers of signals of this type. The extensive natural transmission range of low-energy quanta can also be used to receive information from spatially remote systems. | 02-04-2010 |
20100056897 | System For Non-Uniform Image Scanning and Acquisition - A system employs non-uniform and nonlinear patient monitoring signals in automatically adaptively varying image resolution, image scanning frequency and acquisition speed and gates and synchronizes the image scanning and acquisition of an imaging system. A system acquires medical images of patient anatomy using a trigger generator. The trigger generator generates a trigger signal comprising a non-periodic sequence of pulses in a first signal portion within individual heart beat cycles. The first signal portion is periodically repeated for multiple sequential individual heart beat cycles. An image acquisition device acquires multiple images of a patient anatomical portion in response to corresponding multiple individual pulses of the non-periodic sequence of pulses. A display processor presents acquired images on a display for review by a user. | 03-04-2010 |
20100063377 | BLUETOOTH SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING AND STORING A DENTAL ROOT CANAL DEPTH MEASUREMENT - A system for determining and storing a dental root canal depth measurement comprising: at least one electronic apex locator configured to locate the apex of a dental root canal; a dental instrument configured to be inserted into the dental root canal, up to the apex thereof; and a remotely located data storage unit configured to store data concerning the root canal apex. Data concerning the apex of the root canal may be transmitted from the apex locator to the data storage unit via Bluetooth transmission and may be exhibited on a display, along with the depth measurement of the root canal and a digital x-ray showing the location of the dental instrument in the root canal. | 03-11-2010 |
20100063378 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRAINING A COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY PATIENT - A constraint having a main body and at least one coupler. The main body can be substantially arcuate in shape and can be configured to constrain a patient. The at least one coupler can couple the main body to a bed or treatment pallet. The constraint can be sized to restrict a patient within a computerized tomography (CT) scan field of view. | 03-11-2010 |
20100081914 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR POSITIONING A GUIDE RELATIVE TO A BASE - A system for positioning a guide relative to an anatomy is provided. The system can include a base adapted to be coupled to the anatomy, and a guide that can move relative to the base. The system can include at least one tracking device that can be coupled to the base and the guide, and a tracking system that tracks a position of the tracking device. The system can include a navigation system that determines a position of the base and the guide relative to the anatomy, and whether the position of the base and the guide are in a desired position. The system can include a display, which can display at least one icon superimposed on the image of the anatomy that graphically indicates a manipulation of the guide required to move the guide into the desired position. | 04-01-2010 |
20100081915 | Histological facilitation systems and methods - Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for generating or otherwise handling images or other data indicating (a) an extraction of chemically treated tissue frozen in vivo, (b) a treatment of a tissue sample in a chamber extended into tissue of an organism, and/or (c) cells to which an optical enhancement material was applied in vivo. Several contexts in which such indications facilitate histological evaluation are likewise described. | 04-01-2010 |
20100081916 | Histological facilitation systems and methods - Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for generating or otherwise handling images or other data indicating (a) an extraction of chemically treated tissue frozen in vivo, (b) a treatment of a tissue sample in a chamber extended into tissue of an organism, and/or (c) cells to which an optical enhancement material was applied in vivo. Several contexts in which such indications facilitate histological evaluation are likewise described. | 04-01-2010 |
20100081917 | SYSTEM FOR MULTI-DIMENSIONAL ANATOMICAL FUNCTIONAL IMAGING - A cardiac functional analysis system reconstructs a 3D anatomical image volume using image frames acquired at predetermined cardiac phases over multiple cardiac cycles in response to a trigger derived from hemodynamic signals. A medical imaging system generates 3D anatomical imaging volume datasets from acquired 2D anatomical images. The system includes an image acquisition device for acquiring 2D anatomical images of a portion of patient anatomy in selectable angularly variable imaging planes in response to a synchronization signal derived from a patient blood flow related parameter. A synchronization processor provides the synchronization signal derived from the patient blood flow related parameter. An image processor processes 2D images acquired by the image acquisition device of the portion of patient anatomy in multiple different imaging planes having relative angular separation, to provide a 3D image reconstruction of the portion of patient anatomy. | 04-01-2010 |
20100121172 | MICROSCOPIC AND MACROSCOPIC DATA FUSION FOR BIOMEDICAL IMAGING - Macroscopic imaging data, such as CT, MR, PET, or SPECT, is obtained. Microscopic imaging data of at least a portion of the same tissue is obtained. The microscopic imaging data is spatially aligned with the macroscopic imaging data. The spatial alignment allows calculation and/or imaging using both types of data as a multi-resolution data set. A given image may include information about the relative position of the microscopically imaged tissue to the macroscopically imaged body portion. This positional relationship may allow viewing of affects or changes at cellular levels as well as less detailed tissue structure or organism levels and may allow determination of any correlation between changes in both levels. | 05-13-2010 |
20100121173 | ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS FOR DETECTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ABNORMAL TISSUE AND CELLS - An apparatus for the diagnosis of a biological sample is disclosed. An embodiments of the apparatus includes a probe, a probe head distally connectable to the probe, the probe head further comprising a plurality of electrode elements thereby forming an electrode array where each electrode element is variably actuatable to apply an electrical signal to the biological sample; an RF signal source for applying the electrical signal to the electrode array; an electrode selector adapted and configured to switch the electrical signal from the RF signal source between the plurality of electrode elements; and a detection circuit for analyzing a dielectric property received from the biological sample. Methods and kits for diagnosing a biological sample are also disclosed. | 05-13-2010 |
20100160764 | AUTOMATIC GENERATION AND UTILIZATION OF A VASCULAR ROADMAP - Apparatus and methods are described for receiving into at least one processor a set of images of blood vessels of a subject. A road map of the subject's blood vessels is generated, by automatically (a) deriving at least one image from the set of images of the blood vessels, based upon visibility of at least a portion of the blood vessels in the set of images, and (b) in the derived image, determining a location of edge lines of at least some of the portion of the blood vessels in the image. An output is generated by the processor, based on the road map. Other embodiments are also described. | 06-24-2010 |
20100168550 | MULTIPLE SHELL CONSTRUCTION TO EMULATE CHAMBER CONTRACTION WITH A MAPPING SYSTEM - A system for constructing multiple shells (electronic models) indicative of the geometry and/or volume of a bodily lumen, such as a heart chamber, is configured to collect a plurality of location data points as the electrode is swept within the chamber. Each of the collected data points has an associated measured cardiac phase at which such point was acquired. The system is configured to segregate the collected electrode locations into sets based on the phase. Each set is characterized by a particular, associated phase of its constituent electrode locations. The system is configured to generate, for each set, a respective shell that will represent the chamber at the associated phase. The shells, once constructed, may be used for or in connection with a variety of diagnostic, mapping, and/or therapeutic procedures. The system is also configured to verify that the electrode is in contact with the heart tissue before using the collected data point in the shell construction (e.g., using a phase angle parameter to verify contact). | 07-01-2010 |
20100168551 | Determining a Thickness of a Layer of Fat of an Organism - An apparatus for determining a thickness of a layer of fat of an organism, the apparatus comprising a plurality of electromagnetic radiation sources adapted for illuminating the layer of fat with a plurality of pulses of electromagnetic radiation, at least one electromagnetic radiation detector adapted for detecting detection signals indicative of the pulses of electromagnetic radiation after transmission through the layer of fat, and a determining unit adapted for determining a plurality of values of the thickness of the layer of fat based on an analysis of a plurality of ratios between the detection signals, wherein only those values are used for calculating an average thickness of the layer of fat which values result in deviations from the average thickness of less than a predetermined threshold value. | 07-01-2010 |
20100191091 | Diagnostic delivery service - Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication. | 07-29-2010 |
20100191092 | Diagnostic delivery service - Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication. | 07-29-2010 |
20100198045 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROVIDING REAL-TIME DYNAMIC IMAGERY OF A MEDICAL PROCEDURE SITE USING MULTIPLE MODALITIES - A system and method of providing composite real-time dynamic imagery of a medical procedure site from multiple modalities which continuously and immediately depicts the current state and condition of the medical procedure site synchronously with respect to each modality and without undue latency is disclosed. The composite real-time dynamic imagery may be provided by spatially registering multiple real-time dynamic video streams from the multiple modalities to each other. Spatially registering the multiple real-time dynamic video streams to each other may provide a continuous and immediate depiction of the medical procedure site with an unobstructed and detailed view of a region of interest at the medical procedure site at multiple depths. As such, a surgeon, or other medical practitioner, may view a single, accurate, and current composite real-time dynamic imagery of a region of interest at the medical procedure site as he/she performs a medical procedure, and thereby, may properly and effectively implement the medical procedure. | 08-05-2010 |
20100204561 | IMAGING CATHETERS HAVING IRRIGATION - Imaging catheters having irrigation capabilities are described herein. Generally, the device may include a first inner membrane which is sealed and serves to position the device within or relative to a lumen. This balloon structure, when filled with fluid, expands and is engaged in direct contact with the tissue. A second (outer) membrane is not completely sealed and instead provides a pathway for delivery of fluid at the treatment site for effecting various treatments. Imaging systems, optionally articulatable, may be positioned within the balloon as well as electrodes positionable upon the balloon may be utilized to facilitate tissue treatments. | 08-12-2010 |
20100204562 | CALIBRATION PROCEDURE FOR THE RELATIVE POSITION OF A TABLE AND C-ARM ON A MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM - A method of calibrating a mechanical model of behaviour and movement of an interventional radiology table by moving the table over at least one degree of freedom, acquiring at least one set of images corresponding to different positions of the table and C-arm, obtaining at least one set of images of a test object from different positions, using the images of the test object to determine parameters of the mechanical model of table behaviour and movement, and combining these parameters with data given by table movement sensors so as to deduce the true relative positions of the table with respect to the medical imaging system. | 08-12-2010 |
20100222662 | Systems, devices, and methods including paramagnetic oscillation, rotation, and translation of hemozoin asymmetric nanoparticles in response to dark-field or Rheinberg detection of the presence of hemozoin - Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing a monitor/treatment device configured to, for example, detect hemozoin, as well as to monitor or treat a malarial infection. | 09-02-2010 |
20100222663 | NON-INVASIVE PNEUMOTHORAX DETECTION AND APPARATUS - Provided is a micropower impulse radar (MIR) pneumothorax detector. The detector includes a processor and a handheld MIR scanner. The handheld MIR scanner includes a device housing, an antenna located within the device housing, circuitry that generates MIR signals, and circuitry that processes received echoes of the MIR signals and provides the processed received echoes to the processor. The processor automatically determines whether a pneumothorax is present based on the processed received echoes of the MIR signals. | 09-02-2010 |
20100234718 | OPEN ARCHITECTURE MEDICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - The present disclosure provides an open architecture communication system for patient monitoring devices and other patient care equipment. The open architecture of the present system allows devices running different operating systems and software to communicate correctly and efficiently with the care center network. One aspect of the system includes a patient monitoring virtual machine which allows patient monitoring devices and other patient care equipment to allow for communications with other devices on the network or other networks and automatic configuration of devices. Aspects of the system also provide for relocation of post-processing functions, arrangement of devices into domains, and/or management of devices using servers and other management systems. | 09-16-2010 |
20100234719 | Estimating Visceral Fat By Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry - A system and a method of using dual-energy absoptiometry to estimate visceral fat metrics and display results, preferably as related to normative data. The process involves deriving x-ray measurements for respective pixel positions related to a two-dimensional projection image of a body slice containing visceral fat as well as subcutaneous fat; at least some of the measurements being dual-energy x-ray measurements, processing the measurements to derive estimates of metrics related to the visceral fat in the slice; and using the resulting estimates. | 09-16-2010 |
20100234720 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTING PHYSIOLOGICAL DATA USING ULTRA-WIDEBAND RADAR AND IMPROVED SIGNAL PROCESSING TECHNIQUES - Disclosed is a variant of ultra-wide band (UWB) radar known as micropower impulse radar (MIR) combined with advanced signal processing techniques to provide a new type of medical imaging technology including frequency spectrum analysis and modern statistical filtering techniques to search for, acquire, track, or interrogate physiological data. Range gate settings are controlled to depths of interest within a patient and those settings are dynamically adjusted to optimize the physiological signals desired. | 09-16-2010 |
20100249570 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGER AND METHODS FOR CALIBRATING AN IMAGER - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus is provided for medical or other imaging applications and also a method for calibrating this apparatus. The apparatus employs a sparse array of transducer elements and a reconstruction algorithm. Spatial calibration maps of the sparse array are used to optimize the reconstruction algorithm. The apparatus includes a laser producing a pulsed laser beam to illuminate a subject for imaging and generate photoacoustic waves. The transducers are fixedly mounted on a holder so as to form the sparse array. A photoacoustic (PA) waves are received by each transducer. The resultant analog signals from each transducer are amplified, filtered, and converted to digital signals in parallel by a data acquisition system which is operatively connected to a computer. The computer receives the digital signals and processes the digital signals by the algorithm based on iterative forward projection and back-projection in order to provide the image. | 09-30-2010 |
20100268057 | Computational systems and methods for health services planning and matching - Systems and methods are described relating to accepting brain sensor data and presenting a plurality of health service options at least partly based on the accepting brain sensor data. | 10-21-2010 |
20100268058 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING DEVICES AND METHODS OF IMAGING - A photoacoustic medical imaging device may include a substrate, an array of ultrasonic transducers on the substrate, at least one groove etched on the substrate, at least one optical fiber, and at least one facet. Each optical fiber is disposed in one of the grooves. Each facet is etched in one of the grooves and coated with a layer of metal having high infrared reflectivity. Each optical fiber is configured to guide infrared light from a light source through the fiber and toward the respective facet. The facet is configured to reflect the infrared light toward a target. | 10-21-2010 |
20100268059 | THERAPY OPTIMIZATION VIA MULTI-DIMENSIONAL MAPPING - 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 where the cardiac information comprises position information, electrical information and mechanical information; mapping local electrical activation times to anatomic positions to generate an electrical activation time map; mapping local mechanical activation times to anatomic positions to generate a mechanical activation time map; generating an electromechanical delay map by subtracting local electrical activation times from corresponding local mechanical activation times; and rendering at least the electromechanical delay map to a display. Various other methods, devices, systems, etc., are also disclosed. | 10-21-2010 |
20100268060 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROMOTING UTILIZATION OF MEDICAL INFORMATION - A server computer judges a region represented by an image obtained by an imaging apparatus. The server computer generates intelligent information regarding body tissue which can be estimated based on the imaged region, and registers the generated intelligent information in an intelligent information database. Workstations and the like that assist the work of medical workers execute filtering processes depending on the users thereof, to limit the range of assistance, the range of intelligent information to be utilized to perform the assistance based on the identifying data, and the like. | 10-21-2010 |
20100274116 | COMPUTER-SUPPORTED MEDICAL IMAGE ACQUISITION AND/OR ASSESSMENT - In a method for supported recording and/or analysis, in particular assessment, of images which are to be and/or have been recorded with an imaging device using a database containing medical information, in particular a medical atlas, in the imaging device and/or in a computer, following a command from a user and/or through the occurrence of a triggering event, dependent existing image related data, at least one image related information item is selected from the database automatically, and the at least one, image related information item is displayed. | 10-28-2010 |
20100280350 | Chinese medicine tele-diagnostics and triage system - The present invention is tele-diagnostics and patient triage method and system for the practices of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that acquire patient health condition info through 4 diagnostics process, provide pathogenesis analysis (disease cause, progression, projection), and treatment and prescription options remotely. This method and system established medical business modules with standard syntax through the implementation of medical decision support tools such as relational database, lookup tables, calculators, decision trees, manifestation reference charts, case comparison and statistics, and visualization in disease, pattern and syndrome identification, differentiation and determination. It essentially transform complex Chinese medicine practices into a networked, expert supported system with a knowledge base that deliver the needed information to assist a TCM physician to make medical decisions. Used in medical call centers and large general hospitals, this method and system help a plural of physicians quickly screen and diagnose a large number of patients and triage patients to different level of health care resources according to disease, condition and care needed for the patient. This system is to provide the method for TCM practitioner to treat patients of common disease with low risks that does not warrant a face to face diagnostics. This system also integrates with patient location based information to establish a quick referral system that connects call centers with clinics and hospitals nearby to provide face to face physician service and maintain continuity of care. A network of this system can alleviate the increasing pressure of resource shortage in rural and remote areas, particularly in developing countries. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280351 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING ROTATIONAL BONE KINEMATICS - Apparatus and method are disclosed for assessing rotational bone kinematics. Instantaneous center of rotation (ICR) of a bone segment is derived from a digitalized image of a bone and it is compared with the normal distribution of an ICR to determine rotational bone kinematics. The apparatus and method may be used to assess kinematic status of a normal bone and pathological bone. They also may be used to design an improved artificial disc to provide an appropriate kinesis. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280352 | Method and System for Multi-Component Heart and Aorta Modeling for Decision Support in Cardiac Disease - A method and system for generating a patient specific anatomical heart model is disclosed. Volumetric image data, such as computed tomography (CT), echocardiography, or magnetic resonance (MR) image data of a patient's cardiac region is received. Individual models for multiple heart components, such as the left ventricle (LV) endocardium, LV epicardium, right ventricle (RV), left atrium (LA), right atrium (RA), mitral valve, aortic valve, aorta, and pulmonary trunk, are estimated in said volumetric cardiac image data. A multi-component patient specific anatomical heart model is generated by integrating the individual models for each of the heart components. Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) simulations are performed on the patient specific anatomical model, and patient specific clinical parameters are extracted based on the patient specific heart model and the FSI simulations. Disease progression modeling and risk stratification are performed based on the patient specific clinical parameters. | 11-04-2010 |
20100286499 | MULTI-BEND STEERABLE MAPPING CATHETER - An electrophysiology catheter introduced through the groin and inferior vena cava into the right side of the heart comprises an elongate flexible shaft having a steerable distal section and a prolapsing section located proximally of the distal section. The distal section is inserted into the coronary sinus and a back-steering force is applied to the catheter to anchor the distal section therein, after which the catheter is further advanced to prolapse the prolapsing section against the high right atrium. Electrical pathways in both the coronary sinus and the high right atrium are mapped using respective electrode pairs carried on the distal and prolapsing sections of the catheter. | 11-11-2010 |
20100292558 | IN-VIVO VISUALIZATION SYSTEMS - In vivo visualization systems are described which facilitate tissue treatment by a user in utilizing real time visualized tissue images with generated three-dimensional models of the tissue region of interest, such as the left atrial chamber of a subject's heart. Directional indicators on the visualized tissue as well as the imaging systems may be utilized while other variations may utilize image rotation or manipulation of visualized tissue regions to facilitate catheter control. Moreover, visualized tissue regions may be combined with imaged tissue regions as well as navigational information to further facilitate tissue treatments. | 11-18-2010 |
20100292559 | RADAR-EQUIPPED PATIENT BED FOR A MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS, AND OPERATING METHOD THEREFOR - A patient bed for an imaging medical apparatus has a patient support plate that has at least one radar antenna to obtain physiological and/or geometric data from a patient the patient support plate. In a method for the operation of such a patient bed having at least one radar antenna in an imaging medical apparatus, the at least one radar antenna is operated to obtain data from the patient on the patient support plate. | 11-18-2010 |
20100298688 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING USING A VERSATILE ACOUSTIC LENS - To image various soft tissues in the body using pulsed laser optical excitation delivered through a multi-mode optical fiber to create photoacoustic impulses, and then image the generated photoacoustic impulses with an acoustic detector array, a probe includes either a mirror and an acoustic lens or a special acoustic lens of variable focal length and magnification that can operate in a liquid environment that is aberration-corrected to a sufficient degree that high resolution images can be obtained with lateral as well as depth resolution. | 11-25-2010 |
20100298689 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING FLOW AND ENHANCING SNR PERFORMANCE IN PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPLICATIONS - The present disclosure provides systems and methods for combining photoacoustic/thermoacoustic imaging with power Doppler signal processing. More particularly, the disclosed systems and methods involve use of encoded Doppler signals in order to detect and image in vivo blood flow. The disclosed flow detection systems and methods may be used in photoacoustic imaging using PD to achieve, inter alia, enhanced signal-to-noise (SNR) and sensitivity performances. A method for detecting flow in a target region may involve (i) obtaining a encoded signal containing photoacoustic imaging data for the target region using a photoacoustic imaging system, (ii) decoding the encoded signal, (iii) passing the decoded signal through a demodulator and a low-pass filter, resulting in a base-band signal, (iv) passing the base-band signal through a wall filter, resulting in an uncluttered signal; and (iv) estimating the Ro value by integrating the power spectrum of the uncluttered signal. | 11-25-2010 |
20100298690 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE GEOMETRIC DETERMINATION OF ELECTRICAL DIPOLE DENSITIES ON THE CARDIAC WALL - Disclosed are devices, a systems, and methods for determining the dipole densities on heart walls. In particular, a triangularization of the heart wall is performed in which the dipole density of each of multiple regions correlate to the potential measured at various locations within the associated chamber of the heart. To create a database of dipole densities, mapping information recorded by multiple electrodes located on one or more catheters and anatomical information is used. In addition skin electrodes may be implemented. | 11-25-2010 |
20100312088 | Systems and Methods for Detecting Labor Conditions via Electromagnetic Field Disturbances - A system may detect a labor condition in a laboring patient. The system may include an electromagnetic field generating unit, an electromagnetic field sensing unit, and a processing unit. The electromagnetic field generating unit may be operable to create an electromagnetic field about the laboring patient. The electromagnetic field sensing unit may be operable to detect a disturbance in the electromagnetic field. The processing unit may be operable to process the disturbance in the electromagnetic field to extract a labor condition. | 12-09-2010 |
20100324407 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO PROCESS AN ACQUIRED IMAGE OF A SUBJECT ANATOMY TO DIFFERENTIATE A PORTION OF SUBJECT ANATOMY TO PROTECT RELATIVE TO A PORTION TO RECEIVE TREATMENT - A system and method to process an acquired image to differentiate a portion of subject anatomy to protect relative to a portion of anatomy to receive treatment is provided. The system includes a controller with program instructions to perform the steps of receiving an instruction to indicate a zone interest of the imaged anatomy to protect associated with treatment of the subject anatomy; calculating a first set of image elements associated with a first circulatory network in communication to supply a first zone of interest to treat and not in communication to supply a second zone of interest to protect; calculating a second set of image elements of the acquired image associated with a second circulatory network in communication to supply the second zone of interest to protect; and creating a display that differentiates the second set of image elements from a remainder of the acquired image. | 12-23-2010 |
20100331662 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - A photoacoustic wave detector detects a photoacoustic wave generated inside a specimen by light irradiated thereto. A signal processing device: forms first volume data from a first signal, the first signal being the detection signal acquired from the detector or a signal obtained by adjusting an amplitude of the detection signal; forms second volume data from a second signal, the second signal being a signal obtained by changing a phase of the first signal; forms third volume data from the first and second volume data; and generates and outputs image data representing information on an interior of the specimen from the third volume data. | 12-30-2010 |
20100331663 | DUAL MODE CLOSED-LOOP SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING A PARAMETER OF THE MUSCULAR-SKELETAL SYSTEM - A dual-mode closed-loop measurement system ( | 12-30-2010 |
20110004091 | Methods for Using Resonant Acoustic and/or Resonant Acousto-EM Energy to Detect And/Or Effect Structures - The present invention makes use of resonant acoustic and/or acousto-EM energy applied to inorganic or biologic structures for the detection and/or identification, and for augmentation and/or disruption of function within the biologic structure. In particular, the invention provides a method of generating resonant acoustic and/or acousto-EM energy in biologic structures such as virus, bacteria, fungi, worms and tumors for the detection and disruption of these structures. Moreover, the invention provides a method of augmenting functions of biologic structures such as bone through the generation of resonant acoustic and/or acousto-EM energy in the structure. Systems are also provided for the generation and detection of resonant acoustic and/or resonant acousto-EM energy. | 01-06-2011 |
20110015513 | TRANSPORTABLE DIGITAL AUTONOMOUS UNIT TO PERFORM ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS, OF TACTILE MANUAL LOCALIZATION, GEOMETRICALLY BASED ON THE PROJECTION OF POINTS IN A CARTESIAN (VIRTUAL) PLANE, INCORPORATING TECHNOLOGY OF SENSORS AND SOFTWARE - A systematic procedure and device able to measure the body dimensions of persons, both young and adult, relating to anthropometry, and more concrete methods for anthropometric studies. The device includes an autonomous, transportable digital system to carry out the anthropometric measurements, which permits and facilitates the location and collection of the anthropometric points that are extracted of the individual ( | 01-20-2011 |
20110015514 | MEDICAL IMAGING METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A FINITE-ELEMENT MODEL - A method comprising: -providing acquisition data ( | 01-20-2011 |
20110028824 | SCANNING TERAHERTZ PROBE - A THz radiation probe ( | 02-03-2011 |
20110028825 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EFFICIENT IMAGING - A system and methods for more efficient review, processing, analysis and diagnoses of medical imaging data is disclosed. The system and methods include automatically segmenting and labeling imaging data by anatomical feature or structure. Additional tools that can improve the efficiency of health care providers are also disclosed. | 02-03-2011 |
20110028826 | MAPPING PROBE ASSEMBLY WITH SKIVED TUBE BODY FRAME - An embodiment of a mapping probe assembly includes a body frame with a lumen therein. The body frame includes a catheter shaft region, a loop section and a transition region between the catheter shaft region and a loop section. A plurality of mapping electrodes are attached around the loop section. Electrical conductors extend through the lumen of the body frame to the mapping electrodes. In some embodiments, the loop section is skived, where a portion of the body frame is removed toward the interior of the loop section. The loop section has a generally planar loop, and further has a loop center. In some embodiments, the catheter shaft has an alignment generally perpendicular to the loop section where the alignment of the catheter shaft is along a line that intersects the planar loop proximate to the loop center. | 02-03-2011 |
20110034796 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SUBSTANTIALLY IMMOBILIZING A BREAST FOR MEDICAL IMAGING PROCEDURE - Apparatus and methods are described for substantially immobilizing a breast for use in medical imaging. In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for substantially immobilizing a breast is provided, including a first support member connected to a first and second base, the bases capable of engagement with the torso of a patient, the first support member defining an inner area substantially covered by a first membrane. A corresponding second support member, defining a second inner area substantially covered by a second membrane, is engageable to the first support member such that the inner areas are substantially aligned to substantially immobilize a breast, the membranes defining a pocket to receive a breast. | 02-10-2011 |
20110034797 | NON-INVASIVE MEASURING OF LOAD-INDUCED ELECTRIC POTENTIALS IN DIARTHROIDIAL JOINTS - There is described a method for non-invasively measuring electrical activity in a joint of a subject, the method comprising: removably attaching in a non-invasive manner at least two electrodes to a skin surface around an articulation comprising the joint; generating electroarthrographic potentials within the joint by loading the articulation; capturing the electroarthrographic potentials using the at least two electrodes; discriminating between electroarthrographic potentials originating from joint tissue activity and those from other sources; and generating measurement signals representing the electrical activity of joint tissue. | 02-10-2011 |
20110040168 | System and Method for Predicting Future Fractures - A method of predicting bone or articular disease in a subject includes determining one or more micro-structural parameters, one or more macroanatomical parameters or biomechanical parameters of a joint in the subject and combining at least two of the parameters to predict the risk of bone or articular disease. | 02-17-2011 |
20110054292 | SYSTEM FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING AND RELATED METHODS - Photoacoustic imaging systems and methods that allow for the creation of three-dimensional (3D) images of a subject are described herein. The systems include one or more optical fibers attached to an ultrasound transducer. Ultrasonic waves are generated by laser light emitted from the optical fiber(s) and detected by the ultrasound transducer. 3D images are acquired by ultrasound signals from a series of adjacent scan planes or frames that are then stacked together to create 3D volume data. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054293 | Combination Localization System - A navigation system or combination of navigation systems can be used to provide two or more navigation modalities to navigate a single instrument in a volume. For example, both an Electromagnetic (EM) and Electropotential (EP) navigation system can be used to navigate an instrument within the volume. Image data can also be illustrated relative to a tracked position of the instrument in the volume for navigation. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054294 | Tissue Scanner - A three-dimensional thermoacoustic imaging system uses dye markers. Thermoacoustic signals are produced by the dye markers when light from an external source is absorbed by the dye. Thermoacoustic images with and without dye stimulation may be generated using excitation frequencies both inside and outside the frequency band of fluorescence of the dye marker, and these may be combined, and/or combined with conventional ultrasound images for image enhancement. An apparatus for carrying out this method on mice, uses a commercially available array of transducers positioned opposite to the body of the mouse, which is immersed in a coupling media. A source of illumination such as a laser directs light to the mouse through the coupling media, and resulting acoustic waves are captured by the array and reconstructed to form an image. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054295 | MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND METHOD USING A LIVER FUNCTION ANGIOGRAPHIC IMAGE, AND COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM ON WHICH IS RECORDED A PROGRAM THEREFOR - Performing image diagnosis in an easier and more appropriate manner by focusing on functional levels and segments of a liver. A segment function level calculation unit obtains, from liver function angiographic images obtained using a contrast agent that produces a contrast effect according to a functional level of a liver of diagnostic target, evaluation values representing functional levels of a plurality of liver segments in liver regions, a display image generation unit generates an image based on the evaluation values, and the image so generated is displayed on a display unit. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054296 | REMOTE DISPLAY FOR MEDICAL SCANNING APPARATUS - A hand held medical diagnostic apparatus including a processing unit and a probe adapted to produce medical diagnostic data. The processing unit receives medical diagnostic data and processes It to produce display Information. There is a communications channel adapted to transmit data between the processing unit and a remote display unit located remotely from the probe and from the processing unit. The processing unit is adapted to send the display information via the communications channel to the remote display unit and the remote display unit is adapted to display the display information on a screen. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054297 | MEDICAL SYSTEM - A medical system has an electromagnetic navigation system and a patient bed that supports a patient during a medical procedure assisted by the navigation system. The navigation system includes at least one field coil that is integrated in the patient bed at a defined position. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054298 | OPTICAL METHOD FOR DETERMINING MORPHOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND PHYSIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF TISSUE - In an embodiment of the present disclosure, an optical method for determining morphological parameters and physiological properties of tissue is presented. The method includes using reflectance measurements from a tissue area for a plurality of wavelengths, using a bio-optical model, using radiative transfer modeling and using a non-linear inversion procedure. The method further includes systematically varying values of the morphological parameters and physiological properties of the tissue and simultaneously varying the inherent optical properties, which are linked to the morphological parameters and the physiological properties of the tissue, until the non-linear inversion procedure returns values for the morphological parameters and the physiological properties of the tissue such that an agreement between the reflectance measurements and reflectances computed by the radiative transfer model, based on the returned morphological parameters and the physiological properties of the tissue values and corresponding inherent optical properties values, reach a predetermined level of accuracy. | 03-03-2011 |
20110060209 | INTRACORPOREAL MONITORING APPARATUS HAVING FLECTION - In one embodiment, an intracorporeal monitoring apparatus having a flection includes: a tip unit that receives an ultrasonic signal or light from inside a subject and converts the ultrasonic signal or light into an electric signal; a guiding unit that transmits the electric signal obtained by the tip unit; and a flection that is provided between the guiding unit and the tip unit, transmits the electric signal obtained by the tip unit to the guiding unit, and can be bent, the flection has a conductor that is curved and extensible, one or a plurality of layers of conductive tubes coating the conductor, and a layer of an insulating tube coating the conductive tubes. | 03-10-2011 |
20110066022 | APPARATUS FOR THE FLEXIBLE POSITIONING OF A RADIATION SOURCE AND A RADIATION DETECTOR - An apparatus for medical examinations includes a first arm that is rotatable about an axis, the first arm being configured to carry a radiation source or a radiation detector. The apparatus for medical examinations also includes a second arm that is rotatable about the axis, the second arm being configured to carry a radiation source or a radiation detector. The second arm is attached to the first arm and is rotatable relative to the first arm. | 03-17-2011 |
20110066023 | NON-INVASIVE SUBJECT-INFORMATION IMAGING METHOD AND APPARATUS - A non-invasive subject-information imaging apparatus according to this invention includes a light generating unit which generates light containing a specific wavelength component, a light irradiation unit which radiates the generated light into a subject, a waveguide unit which guides the light from the light generating unit to the irradiation unit, a plurality of two-dimensionally arrayed electroacoustic transducer elements, a transmission/reception unit which transmits ultrasonic waves to the subject by driving the electroacoustic transducer elements, and generates a reception signal from electrical signals converted by electroacoustic transducer elements, and a signal processing unit which generates volume data of a living body function by processing a reception signal corresponding to acoustic waves generated in the subject by light irradiation, and generates volume data of a tissue morphology by processing a reception signal corresponding to echoes generated in the subject upon transmission of the ultrasonic waves. | 03-17-2011 |
20110077499 | Methods and apparatus for improved diagnoses and oncological treatment and treatment planning - Methods and apparatus are disclosed for improving the diagnoses of abnormal conditions, including tumors, damaged tissue and improperly functioning body systems, as well as methods and apparatus for providing virtual pathology/surgery and improving the planning for and execution of oncology treatment. A typical body scan produces only two-dimensional images, in varying shades of gray, and may typically provide either little or no information about structures intermediate the standard image slices: the methods and apparatus disclosed may be used to autonomously prepare from such a series of two-dimensional images a three-dimensional image of structures or systems of interest, which may then be rotated, oriented, and sized as desired; the structures or systems of interest—whether those which should receive treatment or additional treatment or those which should be spared—may be highlighted in color or different colors. A physician or other treatment specialist may then instantly see an entire structure of interest, even as to the volumes intermediate the standard two-dimensional images. Selecting a structure or system of interest may produce not only identifying labels but robust textual descriptions of structures and functions, audio presentations of important relevant information, and even video and audio presentations to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of movement disorders. | 03-31-2011 |
20110082360 | ONLINE SOURCE RECONSTRUCTION FOR EEG/MEG AND ECG/MCG - In one embodiment, the present invention includes an EEG system comprising of sensors which are utilized to gather an electromagnetic signal from a patient; a signal processing system; and a computer system. The computer system is configured to support multiple threads of execution. The computer system initiates a first thread of execution, a measurement module, where the data is filtered and in some cases averaged. Typically, the data is filtered for a particular latency period. Once the data has been filtered and averaged, the result is given to a second thread of execution, the source reconstruction module, which then proceeds to generate a source reconstruction for the trial. The measurement module then acquires and processes new electromagnetic data from a new trial while the source reconstruction is being performed on the most recent trial. | 04-07-2011 |
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. | 04-21-2011 |
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. | 04-21-2011 |
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. | 04-21-2011 |
20110098550 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - A bioinformation acquisition apparatus to input a signal having uniform sensitivity and a high SN ratio at a high speed is provided. It includes a moving device moving an element group into the arrangement direction of the elements, and moves the element group situated at a first position at first time point to be situated at a second position at second time point. The element group receives an elastic wave emitted from a test object at the first time point at the first position, and the elastic wave from the test object at the second time point at the second position. The electric signal of a specified position of a test body from a first element of the elastic waves received at the first time point and the electric signal of the specified position from a second element received at the second time point are added to each other. | 04-28-2011 |
20110105879 | DIAGNOSIS ASSISTING SYSTEM, COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM HAVING DIAGNOSIS ASSISTING PROGRAM RECORDED THEREON, AND DIAGNOSIS ASSISTING METHOD - A plurality of images for observation in different observation formats and thumbnail images corresponding to each image for observation are generated from volume data obtained for the same subject on different imaging dates/times. A plurality of image windows, which can be switched between an active state and an inactive state, are arranged on a diagnosis screen, and images for observation generated from volume data obtained on specified imaging dates are displayed in each image window. In one embodiment, thumbnail images having the same observation format as an image for observation are displayed in the vicinity of the image for observation within an image window in the active state. | 05-05-2011 |
20110105880 | METHODS FOR IMPROVED SINGLE PHOTON EMISSION COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY USING EXACT AND STABLE REGION OF INTEREST RECONSTRUCTIONS - The present invention provides systems, methods, and devices for improved computed tomography (CT) and, more specifically, to methods for improved single photon computed tomography (SPECT) using exact and stable region of interest (ROI) reconstructions. This technology can be extended across all tomographic modalities. Embodiments provide a method and a system for reconstructing an image from projection data provided by a single photon emission computed tomography scanner comprising: identifying a region of interest in an object; defining an attenuation coefficient and object boundary; computing the generalized Hilbert transform of the data through the defined region of interest and a known subregion; and reconstructing the image with improved temporal resolution at lower radiation doses, wherein the reconstructing comprises performing a reconstruction method that yields an exact and stable reconstruction. Embodiments also provide a method and a system for reconstructing an image from projection data provided by a single photon emission computed tomography scanner comprising: identifying a region of interest in an object; defining an attenuation coefficient and object boundary; and reconstructing the images by minimizing the high order total variation while minimizing the data discrepancy. | 05-05-2011 |
20110105881 | BRAIN DISEASE DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM - An object of the present invention is to perform a more accurate and detailed diagnosis of a brain disease. | 05-05-2011 |
20110112391 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS - A measurement apparatus capable of measuring a position and a size of an absorber with high accuracy, which includes: a light source unit for emitting a pulse beam; an illumination optical unit for leading the pulse beam emitted by the light source unit to an inside of an inspection object; and an acoustic signal detection unit for detecting a photoacoustic signal generated by the pulse beam in which the illumination optical unit includes a first and second illumination optical units that are arranged so that the inspection object is irradiated with the pulse beam from both sides thereof opposingly; and the acoustic signal detection unit is provided so that a detection surface of the acoustic signal detection unit is positioned on the same side as that of one of irradiation surfaces of the inspection object which the first and second illumination optical units irradiate with the pulse beam. | 05-12-2011 |
20110125003 | Systems, Devices and Methods For Cartilage and Bone Grafting - Disclosed are systems, methods, devices and products to identify suitable donor sites for harvesting bone-cartilage grafts and to implant such bone-cartilage grafts. In some embodiments, a method includes providing a computer having access to a donor database, the donor database comprising information on each of a plurality of donor joint sites of the body, receiving first data relating to a defect of a joint of a patient, the defect comprising an area of bone, a portion of which includes at least one of, for example, missing and/or damaged cartilage, and identifying, based on the first data, at least one donor site from the donor database of joints for harvesting a graft of bone and cartilage to repair the defect. | 05-26-2011 |
20110125004 | Analysis by photo acoustic displacement and interferometryl - A device for analyzing a material, the device having a photo acoustic generator ( | 05-26-2011 |
20110130641 | IMAGER FOCUSING BASED ON INTRAOPERATIVE DATA - Various embodiments herein provide for imager focusing based on intraoperative data. Ideally, an imaging plane of an ultrasound transducer would be truly planar. That is not the case, though. Instead, ultrasound transducers image a volume that is closer to a rectangular volume, but that has focal depths or areas in the imaged volume that are “thinner” and provide a better resolution. In general, embodiments herein may include determining the pose of an imager, such as an ultrasound transducer, and the pose of a location of interest. Based on those poses, a focal adjustment may be determined in order to, for example, better focus the imager on the object of interest. Then data is generated and the focus of the imager is adjusted. Additionally, imaging data and/or the object of interest may be displayed. In other embodiments, estimated projections of medical devices are displayed to allow for better intraoperative planning. | 06-02-2011 |
20110130642 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING HEALING PROGRESS OF TISSUE - A system and method for analyzing tissue healing may include capturing an image including a tissue site. A clinician may be enabled to define multiple regions of the image of the tissue site, where at least two of the regions of the image define tissue types at different stages of tissue healing. An area may be calculated of each of the at least two regions of the image defining tissue type at different stages of tissue healing. The calculated areas may be displayed to a clinician. In one embodiment, an image color adjustment may be determined by adjusting the image of the reference color marker to the predetermined color. The image of the tissue site may be normalized by applying the image color adjustment to generate a normalized image. | 06-02-2011 |
20110137144 | ARTICLE OF CLOTHING INCLUDING BIO-MEDICAL UNITS - An article of clothing includes a clothing fabric and a plurality of bio-medical units integrated into the clothing fabric. A bio-medical includes a power harvesting module, a communication module, a processing module, a functional module, a die, and an IC package. The die supports the power harvesting module, the processing module, the communication module, and the functional module. The IC package houses the die and includes a mechanism for adhering to the clothing fabric. | 06-09-2011 |
20110144472 | METHODS OF GRAVITY AND/OR MAGNETIC HOLOGRAPHIC IMAGING USING VECTOR AND/OR TENSOR DATA - A method for holographic imaging an object having density and/or magnetization is described, the object being located in an examined medium using potential field data including but not limited to gravity and/or magnetic total field and/or vector and/or tensor data. The potential field sensors may measure the gravity and/or magnetic total field and/or vector and/or tensor data at least one receiving position with respect to the examined medium. At least one component of the measured potential field in at least one receiver location (potential field data) may be used as at least one artificial source of the potential field data. Artificial sources may produce a back-propagating (migration) field. An integrated sensitivity of the potential field data to density and/or magnetization perturbation may be calculated. A spatial weighting of at least one of the back-scattering (migration) fields may form a potential field holographic image. At least one desired property of the medium, such as density and/or magnetization, may be derived from this holographic image. | 06-16-2011 |
20110152662 | IMAGING PALLETS FOR MULTI-MODALITY IMAGING SYSTEMS - A multi-modality imaging system including first and second imaging modality units having respective field of views (FOVs) that are spaced apart from each other. The imaging system also having a positioning system that includes an imaging pallet. The pallet has an elongated support body that includes first and second portions that extend lengthwise along the support body. The first portion is shaped for imaging within the FOV of the first modality unit, and the second portion is shaped for imaging within the FOV of the second modality unit. The first and second portions are shaped differently than each other. The positioning system is configured to position the first portion of the pallet within the FOV of the first modality unit and configured to position the second portion of the pallet within the FOV of the second modality unit. | 06-23-2011 |
20110152663 | MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS, MEDICAL IMAGE DISPLAY DEVICE, PERSONAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A medical image diagnostic apparatus includes an input unit to input personal information of a subject, a communication unit to communicate with a personal information managing server for storing the personal information, and a judge unit to judge whether the personal information can be transmitted to a personal information managing server. The communication unit transmits the personal information to the personal information managing server and receives personally-identifying information for identifying the personal information in response to the personal information transmitted, when the judge unit judges that the personal information can be transmitted. A memory for examination information stores the personally-identifying information. | 06-23-2011 |
20110152664 | MEASURING DEVICE AND A METHOD FOR DETERMINING MOVEMENT IN A TISSUE - A measuring device contains a microwave transmitter, a microwave receiver and a control device. The control device controls the microwave transmitter in such a manner that the latter transmits a microwave signal into a tissue. The tissue contains moving constituents. The tissue controls the microwave signal. The moving constituents of the tissue change the frequency of the microwave signal. The control device controls the microwave receiver in such a manner that the latter receives the scattered and/or frequency-changed microwave signal. The control device determines from the received microwave signal a movement of the moving constituents of the tissue. | 06-23-2011 |
20110160562 | Methods and Systems for Detection of Retinal Changes - An image analysis system allows users to import digital color fundus images over time, and group such images for processing so as to generate analyses. Analyses are information modules based on a selected group of images and, optionally, related information. An analysis tool allows users to view and manipulate the analyses via a graphical user interface for aid in identifying and classifying microaneurysms and other symptoms related to retinopathy and, more generally, to allow for the detection of retinal changes over time. | 06-30-2011 |
20110166435 | SURGICAL ORIENTATION SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - The surgical orientation system is used to assist a surgeon to orient a prosthetic component relative to a patient's anatomy during surgery. An embodiment is particularly suited for assisting surgeons to locate an acetabular cup into a reamed acetabulum. The system includes: an implement ( | 07-07-2011 |
20110172511 | Opto-Acoustic Imaging Devices and Methods - In one aspect, the invention relates to a probe. The probe includes a sheath, a flexible, bi-directionally rotatable, optical subsystem positioned within the sheath, the optical subsystem comprising a transmission fiber, the optical subsystem capable of transmitting and collecting light of a predetermined range of wavelengths along a first beam having a predetermined beam size. The probe also includes an ultrasound subsystem, the ultrasound subsystem positioned within the sheath and adapted to propagate energy of a predetermined range of frequencies along a second beam having a second predetermined beam size, wherein a portion of the first and second beams overlap a region during a scan. | 07-14-2011 |
20110172512 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MAGNETIC INDUCTION TOMOGRAPHY - The invention relates to a method and a system for magnetic induction tomography, the system comprising: at least one transmitting coil for generating a primary magnetic field to be applied to the object of interest; and at least one measurement coil arrangement for measuring electric signals induced by a secondary magnetic field which is generated by the object of interest in response to the primary magnetic field, wherein the at least one measurement coil arrangement comprises a plurality of measurement coils which are positioned in substantially the same plane. By using a plurality of independent measurement coils positioned in a plane so as to replace a conventional single measurement coil, the measurement coil across which the measured difference voltage is most sensitive to a change of the secondary magnetic field can be selected for calculating the change of conductivity distribution, resulting in an improved sensitivity of a MIT system. | 07-14-2011 |
20110172513 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION IMAGING APPARATUS - The biological information imaging apparatus includes an acoustic wave detector | 07-14-2011 |
20110178384 | SYSTEM WITH AT LEAST ONE MEDICAL IMAGING DEVICE, AND METHOD TO PREPARE A SAMPLE FOR MEDICAL IMAGING - A system HAS at least one medical imaging device for implementing a medical imaging and at least one operating unit. The at least one operating unit is decoupled from the medical imaging device at least for a sample preparation for the medical imaging. | 07-21-2011 |
20110178385 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASURING APPARATUS WITH MOVABLE DETECTOR ARRAY - A measuring apparatus includes an acoustic transducer with a plurality of elements, each element detecting an acoustic wave generated from a sample and converting the wave into an electric signal; a movement control unit which moves the acoustic transducer from a first position to a second position; and a processing unit which generates image data on the basis of the electric signal. The acoustic transducer has a gap in the arrangement of the elements. The acoustic transducer detects an acoustic wave at the first position, is moved by the movement control unit such that the position of the gap at the first position corresponds to the position of the element at the second position, and then detects an acoustic wave at the second position. The processing unit generates image data on the basis of electric signals obtained at the first and second positions. | 07-21-2011 |
20110184272 | Portable Diagnostic Device for Precancerous Lesion of Cervical Cancer - A portable diagnostic device for cervical precancerous lesions is disclosed. The device includes an inherent fluorescence detection system for cervical cancer, a cervix acetic acid coloring detection and an image collection system. The inherent fluorescence detection system for cervical cancer has a light source and a switch, which consists of a excitation light source that generates fluorescence and a cold light source that generates white light, both the excitation light source and the cold light source are installed in the bowl-shaped reflector with specific focal length. The cervix acetic acid coloring detection system has an acetic acid pool, a spraying tube that connects with the acetic acid pool, a spraying tube moving device, and a spraying switch. The image collection system has a weak light CCD, which is installed in the center of the bowl-shaped reflector. The image collection system is connected to the external image processing system which process the images collected by the image collection system. Use the white light and excitation light to irradiate the cervix in turn and collect the reflected images from the cervix. Spray acetic acid on cervix and use the white light and excitation light to irradiate the cervix in turn after waiting for a period of time. Collect the reflected images from the cervix which has been sprayed the acetic acid. | 07-28-2011 |
20110190616 | CODED APERTURE MASKS FOR RADIATION-BASED MEDICAL IMAGING - This invention relates to a coded aperture mask for use in diagnostic nuclear medicine imaging. The coded aperture mask consists of a sheet of radiation opaque mask material having a series of apertures extending therethrough. The thickness of mask material has an attenuation percentage of less than 75% and, in a preferred embodiment, about equal to 29%. The coded aperture mask also, in a preferred embodiment, has a lead attenuation tube and has a projection of the smallest hole occupying the same area as a single pixel of a detector. The invention extends to a diagnostic nuclear medicine imaging system which uses a 16 bit gamma camera as a radiation detector. | 08-04-2011 |
20110190617 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING DEVICES AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING THE SAME - A photoacoustic imaging device includes an array of light sources configured and arranged to illuminate a target region and an array of ultrasonic transducers between the array of light sources and the target region. The array of transducers may be fixedly coupled to the array of light sources, and the array of ultrasonic transducers may be configured and arranged to receive ultrasound transmissions from the target region. | 08-04-2011 |
20110190618 | IMAGING NEUROINFLAMMATION - The present invention concerns in vivo imaging and in particular in vivo imaging of the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR). A tetracyclic indole in vivo imaging agent is provided that binds with high affinity to PBR, has good uptake into the brain following administration, and which preferentially binds to tissues expressing higher levels of PBR. The present invention also provides a precursor compound useful in the synthesis of the in vivo imaging agent of the invention, as well as a method for synthesis of said in vivo imaging agent comprising use of said precursor compound, and a kit for carrying out said method. A cassette for the automated synthesis of the in vivo imaging agent is also provided. In addition, the invention provides a radiopharmaceutical composition comprising the in vivo imaging agent of the invention, as well as methods for the use of said in vivo imaging agent. | 08-04-2011 |
20110196221 | Systems, devices, and methods including multi-harmonic optical detection of hemozoin nanoparticles - Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing a monitor/treatment device configured to, for example, detect hemozoin, as well as to monitor or treat a malarial infection. | 08-11-2011 |
20110196222 | Systems, devices, and methods including a dark-field reflected-illumination apparatus - Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing a monitor or treatment device configured to, for example, detect hemozoin, as well as to monitor or treat a malarial infection. | 08-11-2011 |
20110196223 | PROTON TOMOGRAPHY APPARATUS AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREFOR - The invention relates to a method and apparatus for charged particle tomographic imaging using a tomography system. The tomography imaging system is optionally simultaneously operational with a charged particle cancer therapy system using common elements, allows tomographic imaging with rotation of the patient, is operational on a patient in an upright, semi-upright, and/or horizontal position, is simultaneously operational with X-ray imaging, and/or allows use of adaptive charged particle cancer therapy. The common tomography and cancer therapy apparatus elements are operational in a multi-axis and/or multi-field raster beam mode. | 08-11-2011 |
20110201914 | Reflection-Mode Photoacoustic Tomography Using A Flexibly-Supported Cantilever Beam - Noninvasively imaging biological tissue using a handheld device. A light pulse is focused into a predetermined area inside an object using a flexibly mounted cantilever beam, acoustic waves emitted by the object in response to the at least one light pulse are detected by a transducer, and an image of the predetermined area inside the object is generated based on a signal generated by the transducer representative of the acoustic waves. | 08-18-2011 |
20110201915 | CARDIAC AND OR RESPIRATORY GATED IMAGE ACQUISITION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VIRTUAL ANATOMY ENRICHED REAL TIME 2D IMAGING IN INTERVENTIONAL RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION OR PACE MAKER REPLACEMENT PROCECURE - The present invention refers to the field of cardiac electrophysiology (EP) and, more specifically, to image-guided radio frequency ablation and pacemaker placement procedures. For those procedures, it is proposed to display the overlaid 2D navigation motions of an interventional tool intraoperatively obtained from the same projection angle for tracking navigation motions of an interventional tool during an image-guided intervention procedure while being navigated through a patient's bifurcated coronary vessel or cardiac chambers anatomy in order to guide e.g. a cardiovascular catheter to a target structure or lesion in a cardiac vessel segment of the patient's coronary venous tree or to a region of interest within the myocard. In such a way, a dynamically enriched 2D reconstruction of the patient's anatomy is obtained while moving the interventional instrument. By applying a cardiac and/or respiratory gating technique, it can be provided that the 2D live images are acquired during the same phases of the patient's cardiac and/or respiratory cycles. Compared to prior-art solutions which are based on a registration and fusion of image data independently acquired by two distinct imaging modalities, the accuracy of the two-dimensionally reconstructed anatomy is significantly enhanced. | 08-18-2011 |
20110208033 | FRACTURE RISK ASSESSMENT - The present disclosure relates to a bone fracture risk assessment method and system. The method may include generating a volumetric model corresponding to a three-dimensional image of a bone structure for each bone structure in a set of bone structures. The method may further include defining a vector of variables for each bone structure. Each variable in the vector of variables may include a three-dimensional position of one of a number of volumetric vertices and at least one parameter associated with the one volumetric vertex. The method may include generating a set of individual vectors and performing variable reduction on the set of individual vectors. The method may further include determining a discriminator based at least in part on a result of the variable reduction. | 08-25-2011 |
20110208034 | MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND/OR TREATMENT APPARATUS - A medical examination and/or treatment apparatus having an apparatus for position acquisition assigned to a control facility has at least one transmitter that is disposed on a movable part that can be controlled by way of the control facility and transmits a signal and at least one receiver disposed on the movable part for receiving a signal reflected by an external object, the apparatus for position acquisition being configured to determine the distance of the external object from the at least one movable part from the transmitted and received signal, wherein the signal is an FMCW signal of a predefined frequency or frequency range. | 08-25-2011 |
20110208035 | SUBJECT INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS - Generally, a photoacoustic signal has a wavelength longer than a general ultrasonic signal. That is, it does not matter even if at the time of acquisition of the photoacoustic signal, an element pitch of a probe is several times as large as at the time of acquisition of the ultrasonic signal. Thus, at the time of acquisition of the photoacoustic signal, a plurality of neighboring elements in a receiving element array are collectively considered as one element, and a phasing process is performed. As a result, the same effect as a plurality of phasing addition circuits are disposed in parallel is obtained, and not only a phasing addition process of the photoacoustic signal but also image reconstruction can be performed in real time at a high speed. | 08-25-2011 |
20110208036 | COUPLED ANTENNA IMPEDANCE SPECTROSCOPY - It has been found advantageous to deploy coiled antennas as transmitters and receivers for acquiring the dielectric spectrum of materials. This method of impendence spectroscopy has been used to determine the concentration of glucose and other small polar molecules in vitro, as well as in vivo by placement on the antennas so that transmission is through the tissue, as for example on opposite sides of an organ or body part. The optimum selection of antenna coils permits deeper penetration into tissue for glucose detection, improves the SNR as well as expands the spectral range for greater accuracy and precision, to enable continuous non-invasive monitoring for either improved patient or automated management of diabetes. | 08-25-2011 |
20110213234 | System and method for using orthogonally-coded active source signals for reflected signal analysis - A system and method for using orthogonally-coded active source signals for reflected signal analysis, such as in seismic exploration, sonar, and/or ultrasound applications. One method comprises inputting an orthogonally-coded active source signal to a target site, where the orthogonally-coded active source signal is sufficiently random to not interfere with a delayed version of itself. A reflected signal is received from the target site, and based at least in part on the sufficiently random orthogonal coding of the active source signal, a determination is made whether the received signal is a reflection of the input active source signal. | 09-01-2011 |
20110218419 | DYNAMICALLY VARIABLE FILTER - A method of processing a signal pertaining to at least one electrical property of an organ of a subject is disclosed. The method comprises determining a physiological condition of the subject, selecting a frequency band, filtering the signal according to the frequency band, and dynamically adapting the frequency band in response to a change in the physiological condition. | 09-08-2011 |
20110224531 | Portable sensor device and patient monitor - The portable sensor device is connected with the arterial pressure measurement catheter by way of a pressure hose. The electronic pressure sensor is accommodated in the sensor housing. The analog sensor signal is output to the patient monitor by way of a cable. Aside from the channel for the analog sensor signal, additional channels are provided for communication between sensor device and patient monitor. A bidirectional channel serves for writing to and querying the memory module, in which patient data, such as age, gender, height/weight, etc., can be stored. The three-way cock possesses the settings “M” (measurement operation) and “0” (calibration measurement), in which the contactor is brought into connection with the contact. The switching contact is transmitted to the patient monitor, which thereby automatically recognizes zeroing of the sensor. | 09-15-2011 |
20110224532 | PHOTOACOUSTIC BREAST-IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS - A photoacoustic breast-image capturing apparatus has an image capturing stage on which a breast C | 09-15-2011 |
20110230750 | MEASURING APPARATUS - The present invention provides a measuring apparatus having: a first probe including a first acoustic conversion element that transmits an ultrasound wave, receives the ultrasound wave after the ultrasound wave is reflected by an object, and converts the ultrasound wave into an analog signal; a second probe including a second acoustic conversion element that receives a photo-acoustic wave generated when light emitted from a light emitter is absorbed by the object and converts the photo-acoustic wave into an analog signal; a receiver that receives the analog signals converted by the first and second acoustic conversion elements and converts the analog signals into digital signals; and a switching unit that switches the acoustic conversion element from which the receiver receives the analog signal. | 09-22-2011 |
20110230751 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGE PROCESSING FOR COMPUTER-AIDED EYE SURGERY - Image processing for computer-aided eye-surgery includes acquiring a reference image of the eye and enriching said reference image by inserting additional context information which are helpful for a surgeon when performing the eye surgery. The reference image is registered with a real time image of the eye. The context information is overlayed over the real time image of the eye based on a tracking of the eye movement such that the context information is displayed at the same position despite a movement of the eye. | 09-22-2011 |
20110237927 | DEDICATED BREAST RADIATION IMAGING/THERAPY SYSTEM - System, apparatus and methods specialized for breast and related tissue radiation therapy and imaging of a prone patient but also usable for supine patient if desired or needed. A special treatment radiation source such as a LINAC unit generates radiation of types and energy ranges specifically matched to breast tissue. Any one or more of several imaging technologies may be used to localize the tissue to be irradiated and to generate information for therapy planning, adjustment, and verification. | 09-29-2011 |
20110245650 | Method and System for Plaque Lesion Characterization - A method and system for in-vivo characterization of lesion feature is disclosed. Using a non-invasive medical imaging apparatus, an image of an interior region of a patient's body is obtained. The interior region may include lesion feature (such as plaques) components from a list of components. The lesion feature components are identified by classifying each point in the image as either corresponding to one of the lesion feature components in the list of components or not, using image intensity information and image morphology information, a first relationship (such as an intensity score) correlating image intensity information with the components in the list of components and a second relationship (such as a morphology score) correlating image morphology information with the components in the list of components. Further, a variety of lesion feature characteristics is derived from the result of the classification. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245651 | MEDICAL IMAGE PLAYBACK DEVICE AND METHOD, AS WELL AS PROGRAM - Time-series images of a heart and sound data representing heart sounds are obtained. The time-series images of the heart is temporally synchronized with the sound data representing the heart sounds, and the time-series images of the heart and the sound data representing the heart sounds synchronized with each other are played back. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245652 | IMAGING APPARATUS AND IMAGING METHOD - Provided is an imaging apparatus for acquiring information on a profile of properties in a subject for enhancing an SN ratio of an image without changing a profile of intensity, by using threshold processing with an effective threshold, without reference waveform. The apparatus includes: an unit for calculating a correlation coefficient for each voxel/pixel in to obtain a profile of correlation coefficient; an unit for determining an effective threshold; an unit for judging whether or not the correlation coefficient of each voxel/pixel exceeds the effective threshold; and an unit for setting to zero or reducing each voxel/pixel whose correlation coefficient is equal to or less than the effective threshold, with respect to in vivo information on a profile of properties correlated spatially to the profile of correlation coefficient. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245653 | WEARABLE MICROSTRIP ANTENNAS FOR SKIN PLACEMENT FOR BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS - A method of imaging biological tissue enables imaging structure in the biological tissue with an antenna tuned to emit radio energy through at least a covering layer of the biological tissue without significant attenuation of the radio energy. The method includes contacting skin covering tissue with a radio frequency emitting antenna, and adjusting at least one of a radiator and a feed in the antenna with reference to at least one measured electrical or physical property of the skin. The adjustment of the radiator and feed enable a combination of the antenna and skin to emit radio energy at a predetermined magnitude and frequency into a portion of the tissue covered by the skin. | 10-06-2011 |
20110245654 | SIGNAL PROCESSING APPARATUS - A signal processor which acquires a first signal, including a first primary signal portion and a first secondary signal portion, and a second signal, including a second primary signal portion and a second secondary signal portion, wherein the first and second primary signal portions are correlated. The signals may be acquired by propagating energy through a medium and measuring an attenuated signal after transmission or reflection. Alternatively, the signals may be acquired by measuring energy generated by the medium. A processor of the present invention generates a primary or secondary reference signal which is a combination, respectively, of only the primary or secondary signal portions. The secondary reference signal is then used to remove the secondary portion of each of the first and second measured signals via a correlation canceler, such as an adaptive noise canceler, preferably of the joint process estimator type. The primary reference signal is used to remove the primary portion of each of the first and second measured signals via a correlation canceler. The processor of the present invention may be employed in conjunction with a correlation canceler in physiological monitors wherein the known properties of energy attenuation through a medium are used to determine physiological characteristics of the medium. Many physiological conditions, such as the pulse, or blood pressure of a patient or the concentration of a constituent in a medium, can be determined from the primary or secondary portions of the signal after other signal portion is removed. | 10-06-2011 |
20110251474 | Anatomical visualization and measurement system - In another preferred form of the present invention, there is provided a method for determining the risk of rupture of a blood vessel using an appropriate set of 2-D slice images obtained by scanning the blood vessel, the method comprising:
| 10-13-2011 |
20110251475 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS AND BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION ACQUISITION METHOD - 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. Weights for signals or virtual wavefronts corresponding to the signals to be added to one another are determined using a thickness of the plate, the sound velocity in the plate, the sound velocity in the subject, positions of image elements (pixels or voxels) for image information, and arrival times of the acoustic wave from an object that is a sound source. The signals or the virtual wavefronts corresponding to the signals are added to one another, thereby acquiring the image information. | 10-13-2011 |
20110263961 | Antenna for Investigating Structure of Human or Animal - A system for investigating the internal structure of a human or animal body. The system comprises one or more antennas for transmitting and/or receiving electromagnetic energy into or from the body, each antenna comprising a slot formed in a conductive element, the slot having an external boundary defined by a substantially closed internal edge of the conductive element. A receiver is configured to detect the effect of the body on the passage of the electromagnetic energy by recording one or more signals. A processor is configured to process the signal(s) in order to generate an output indicative of the internal structure of the body. The antenna slot is a continuous slot with no internal boundary, the boundary of the slot being completely defined by the internal edge of the conductive element. Each antenna may further comprise two or more conductive feed lines, each feed line coupling energy to and/or from a respective part of the slot. | 10-27-2011 |
20110263962 | BRAIN FUNCTION DECODING PROCESS AND SYSTEM - A method of interpreting cognitive response to a stimulus is disclosed. The method includes collecting baseline neural activity data from a subject absent a stimulus. Neural activity data is collected while the subject is being stimulated through exposure to a stimulus. A unique three-dimensional cognitive engram is then plotted representative of cerebral regions of stimulated neural activity caused by the stimulus. A novel graphical representation is plotted in three dimensions to indicate the brain region response unique to that stimulus. | 10-27-2011 |
20110263963 | ACOUSTIC-WAVE MEASURING APPARATUS AND METHOD - An acoustic-wave measuring apparatus includes a holding unit configured to hold a subject and an irradiation unit configured to irradiate the subject with light. An acoustic-wave detecting unit detects acoustic waves generated in the subject due to irradiation with the light; an image pickup unit acquires an image of the subject; and a measurement position on the image acquired by the image pickup unit is designated. A coordinate transforming unit transforms the coordinates of the measurement position on the image to coordinates of a corresponding position on the holding unit; and a position control unit moves at least one of the irradiation unit and the acoustic-wave detecting unit to the corresponding position on the holding unit. | 10-27-2011 |
20110263964 | METHOD FOR ESTABLISHING AT LEAST ONE CHANGE IN A TUBULAR TISSUE STRUCTURE IN A LIVING BEING, CALCULATION UNIT AND DATA STORAGE MEDIUM - A method is disclosed for establishing at least one change in a tubular tissue structure in a living being from a first time to a second time, which differs from the first, wherein the midline of the tubular tissue structure is respectively determined in a provided first volume data record, generated at the first time, of the tubular tissue structure in the living being, and in a provided second volume data record, generated at the second time, which differs from the first, of the tubular tissue structure. In at least one embodiment, at least one change in the minimum and/or the maximum diameter of the inner wall of the tubular tissue structure and/or at least one change in the minimum and/or the maximum diameter of the outer wall of the tubular tissue structure is established in order to establish the at least one change in the tubular tissue structure along the tubular tissue structure at mutually corresponding positions of the midlines of the tubular tissue structure in the first volume data record and the tubular tissue structure in the second volume data record. At least one embodiment of the invention also relates to a calculation unit for carrying out the method and to a data storage medium, which has a calculation program implementing the method. | 10-27-2011 |
20110270070 | LIVING BODY OBSERVATION APPARATUS - A living body observation apparatus irradiates a predetermined region inside a living body with ultrasound, irradiates the predetermined region, which is irradiated with the ultrasound, with a light of a predetermined frequency, and detects a scattered light with a frequency shifted by ultrasound vibration in a living body constituent substance included in the predetermined region. The living body observation apparatus calculates velocity information of the living body constituent substance from a frequency shift amount in a detection signal of the scattered light, calculates a density of the living body constituent substance from the velocity information, and performs discrimination of a state of the living body constituent substance by using a value of the calculated density. The living body observation apparatus further stores velocity information measured in advance in an organ or the like composing a living body and corresponding density information by linking the velocity information and the density information with each other. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270071 | MEASURING APPARATUS - In photoacoustic imaging, in cases where an emitted light amount and a beam pattern of a laser vary according to variation with time and external factors, and cases where the wavelength and the repetition rate of the laser vary, there is a danger that a light fluence of light applied to tissue become too strong. A unit is provided for measuring a distribution of light fluence of light applied to the tissue. A measuring apparatus is provided that controls output of a laser source such that the measured light fluence should not exceed the maximum permissible exposure to the tissue. Accordingly, highly safe photoacoustic imaging to the tissue can be realized. | 11-03-2011 |
20110275924 | Method and System for Assimilating and Transmitting Medical Imaging and Associated Data to a Remote User - The method and system of the present invention permits a physician to transmit images captured by an imaging device such as an endoscope or fluoroscope and associated data to a remote viewer in real time. | 11-10-2011 |
20110275925 | Method, System and Device for Acoustic and Photonic Tomography - Methods and devices for determining the distance between a location emitting an acoustic, photonic, or electromagnetic waveform and a location detecting the emitted waveform are provided. In certain applications the emitting and/or sensing locations may be selected from within a human, mammalian, or animal body. The subject methods and devices find use in a variety of different applications, including cardiac resynchronization therapy. In certain aspects, a bioelectric signal pathway carries a pulse from cardiac pacing pulse generator to deliver a pacing pulse to a heart while protecting a bioelectric measurement device from interference from the pacing pulse. | 11-10-2011 |
20110282181 | EXTENDED INTERIOR METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SPECTRAL, OPTICAL, AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING - The present invention relates to the field of medical imaging. More particularly, embodiments of the invention relate to methods, systems, and devices for imaging, including for tomography-based applications. Embodiments of the invention include, for example, a computed tomography based imaging system comprising: (a) at least one wide-beam gray-scale imaging chain capable of performing a global scan of an object and acquiring projection data relating to the object; (b) at least one narrow-beam true-color imaging chain capable of performing a spectral interior scan of a region of interest (ROI) of and acquiring projection data relating to the object; (c) a processing module operably configured for: (1) receiving the projection data; (2) reconstructing the ROI into an image by analyzing the data with a color interior tomography algorithm, aided by an individualized gray-scale reconstruction of an entire field of view (FOV), including the ROI; and (d) a processor for executing the processing module. The extended interior methods and systems for spectral, optical, and photoacoustic imaging presented in this application can lead to better medical diagnoses by providing images with higher resolution or quality, and can lead to safer procedures by providing systems capable of reducing a patient's exposure time to, and thus quantity of, potentially harmful x-rays. Embodiments of the invention also provide tools for real-time tomography-based analyses. | 11-17-2011 |
20110282182 | IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD FOR ESTIMATING A RISK OF ATHEROMA PLAQUE BREAKAGE - The invention relates to image processing method for estimating a risk of atheroma plaque breakage, that includes the step of receiving ( | 11-17-2011 |
20110288397 | MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - Provided is a medical image diagnosis apparatus which requires a small area for installation, has a short length in an axial direction of the apparatus, can reduce a problem of the strength of a top plate, and can simultaneously carry out dynamic PET-imaging of the entire body. A top plate ( | 11-24-2011 |
20110295101 | MODULAR SOFTWARE SYSTEM FOR GUIDED RADIATION THERAPY - A facility for performing patient localization for radiation therapy is described. The facility activates two or more discrete software modules, and performs interactions between the activated software modules. Based upon the performed interactions, the facility performs patient localization for a radiation therapy session. | 12-01-2011 |
20110295102 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR NETWORKED WEARABLE MEDICAL SENSORS - A medical sensor system comprises a gateway comprising a wideband receiver and a narrow band transmitter, the each gateway configured to receive a wideband positioning frame using the wideband receiver from one or more wearable sensors and to transmit acknowledgement frames using the narrow band transmitter that include timing and control data for use by the sensors to establish timing for transmission of the positioning frame; and at least one wearable sensor comprising a wideband transmitter and a narrow band receiver, the sensor configured to transmit a sensor data frame to the gateway using the wideband transmitter and to receive an acknowledgement frame from the gateway using the narrow band receiver, extract timing and control information from the frame, and adjust the timing and synchronization of the wideband transmitter using the timing and control information. | 12-01-2011 |
20110301447 | Versatile video interpretation, visualization, and management system - A process and device for detecting colon cancer by classifying and annotating clinical features in video data containing colonoscopic features by applying a probabilistic analysis to intra-frame and inter-frame relationships between colonoscopic features in spatially and temporally neighboring portions of video frames, and classifying and annotating as clinical features any of the colonoscopic features that satisfy the probabilistic analysis as clinical features. Preferably the probabilistic analysis is Hidden Markove Model analysis, and the process is carried out by a computer trained using semi supervised learning from labeled and unlabeled examples of clinical features in video containing colonoscopic features. | 12-08-2011 |
20110306863 | PATIENT ALIGNMENT SYSTEM FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES - A patient alignment system for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures where the embodiment is mounted or referenced to the patient positioning interface such as add-on positioning devices, or directly with the diagnostic and/or therapeutic treatment table or couch. Some patient and equipment positions can obstruct fixed wall or ceiling mounted lasers or an optical view of the anatomy being imaged or treated and patient set-up and alignment may become less accurate or not possible. The patient alignment system may use lasers, cameras or other optical means, ultrasound or RF transceiver technologies, or a combination of multiple technologies, and be mounted in positions, such as below the treatment table or couch and offer a solution to patient alignment for such circumstances. Prone breast imaging and treatment is one example where this system may be used to advantage. | 12-15-2011 |
20110306864 | POSITIONER FOR ULTRA-PORTABLE IMAGING SYSTEM - A flexible, lightweight, easily maneuverable positioner for an imaging system. The positioning system in one example has a cart section with a base frame coupled to one or more wheels. There is a mast extending from the cart section and a linkage assembly coupled to a second end of the mast, wherein the mast is configured to swing about a vertical plane. There is a positioning arm coupled to the linkage assembly, wherein the positioning arm is configured to swing about at least one of a horizontal plane and the vertical plane. An imaging bracket is used to couple to the positioning arm and configured to receive an imaging unit. In one example, the positioner is coupled together by fasteners, wherein the positioner can be assembled and dis-assembled via the fasteners without tools | 12-15-2011 |
20110306865 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING DEVICE - The invention features a system for imaging tissue including (i) a source of electromagnetic radiation; (ii) an encasement h a plurality of acoustic transducers (e.g., at least 128); (iii) a support structure having a portion for holding a tissue; and (iv) a chamber between the encasement and support structure for housing an acoustic coupling medium. In the system, electromagnetic radiation from the source is sufficient to induce a thermoacoustic response in the tissue positioned in the support structure, and the plurality of acoustic transducers are positioned to receive ultrasound from the thermoacoustic response of the tissue. The invention also features methods of imaging a tissue using the systems. | 12-15-2011 |
20110306866 | Apparatus and method for the vibratory stimulation of at least one portion of a vascular access device for its monitoring - The present invention relates to an apparatus for monitoring a vascular access device, including at least one signal generator for generating vibrations in order to stimulate the vascular access device or a portion thereof to vibrate, at least one signal receiver for detecting vibrations of the vascular access device or of said portion thereof, and at least one evaluation device for evaluating the detected vibrations. Moreover a method for monitoring the vascular access device by using the apparatus of the invention is specified. | 12-15-2011 |
20110306867 | Methods and Systems for Determining Vascular Bodily Lumen Information and Guiding Medical Devices - Methods and systems for determining information about a vascular bodily lumen are described. An exemplary method includes generating an electrical signal, delivering the electrical signal to a plurality of excitation elements in the vicinity of the vascular bodily lumen, measuring a responsive electrical signal from a plurality of sensing elements in response to the delivered electrical signal, and determining a lumen dimension. Specific embodiments include generating a multiple frequency electrical signal. Another embodiment includes measuring a plurality of responsive signals at a plurality of frequencies. Still other embodiments include using spatial diversity of the excitation elements. Yet other embodiments use method for calibration and de-embedding of such measurements to determine the lumen dimensions. Diagnostic devices incorporating the method are also disclosed, including guide wires, catheters and implants. The methods and systems described herein are advantageous as they do not include injecting a second fluid for the measurements. | 12-15-2011 |
20110319741 | Adapting radiotherapy treatment plans - Embodiments of the present invention provide a method of pre-approving a range of hypothetical spatial variations of the target whilst an initial treatment plan is generated. This allows the treatment plan to be later adapted to account for spatial variations of the target region falling within those pre-approved ranges, without going through time-consuming steps of quality assurance on the adapted plan. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319742 | SPATIAL IMAGING METHODS FOR BIOMEDICAL MONITORING AND SYSTEMS THEREOF - A method for monitoring at least one biomedical characteristic is disclosed. A first microneedle coated with one or more regions of a chemical sensing material is illuminated. One or more digital images are captured of the first microneedle, wherein at least one of the one or more digital images is captured after the first coated microneedle has been actuated to penetrate a subject's skin. Pixel information is spatially extracted from the captured one or more images to define one or more pixel sample areas corresponding to the one or more regions of a chemical sensing material. One or more spectral characteristics are determined for each of the one or more pixel sample areas. The at least one biomedical characteristic is determined for each of the one or more pixel sample areas based on the determined one or more spectral characteristics for each of the one or more pixel sample areas. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319743 | ULTRASONIC PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND OPERATION METHOD OF THE SAME - An ultrasonic photoacoustic imaging apparatus which includes a probe incorporating an array transducer having a plurality of transducers and an acoustic image generation unit that generates, based on a mixed signal obtained by converting an acoustic wave, in which an ultrasonic wave and a photoacoustic wave are mixed and making use of a difference between phase shift aspect of electrical signals of the ultrasonic waves from the same reflection source in the inside of the subject and phase shift aspect of electrical signals of the photoacoustic waves from the same generation source in the inside of the subject, an electrical signal reflecting the ultrasonic wave and an electrical signal reflecting the photoacoustic wave, and generates an ultrasonic image based on the electrical signal reflecting the ultrasonic wave and a photoacoustic image based on the electrical signal reflecting the photoacoustic wave. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319744 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - A region selecting means sequentially selects a plurality of partial regions, into which a range to be imaged of a subject is divided. A light irradiation detecting section detects light which is irradiated onto the subject from a laser light source. A signal obtaining section samples acoustic signals detected by probe elements corresponding to the selected partial region, and stores the acoustic signals in an element data memory. An image constructing section constructs a tomographic image of the subject based on the data read out from the element data memory. A synchronization correction processing section obtains the differences in the timings at which the light irradiation detecting section has detected irradiation of light, and corrects the temporal axes of the sampled data in the element data memory based on the obtained timing differences. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319745 | Patient Matching Surgical Guide and Method for Using the Same - A system and method for developing customized apparatus for use in one or more surgical procedures is disclosed. The system and method incorporates a patient's unique anatomical features or morphology, which may be derived from capturing MRI data or CT data, to fabricate at least one custom apparatus. According to a preferred embodiment, the customized apparatus comprises a plurality of complementary surfaces based on a plurality of data points from the MRI or CT data. Thus, each apparatus may be matched in duplicate and oriented around the patient's own anatomy, and may further provide any desired axial alignments or insertional trajectories. In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus may further be aligned with at least one other apparatus used during the surgical procedure. | 12-29-2011 |
20110319746 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING INTRABODY TISSUES - A method for monitoring an intrabody region of a patient. The method comprises intercepting electromagnetic (EM) radiation from the intrabody region in a plurality of EM radiation sessions during a period of at least 6 hours, calculating a dielectric related change of the intrabody region by analyzing respective the intercepted EM radiation, detecting a physiological pattern according to said dielectric related change, and outputting a notification indicating the physiological pattern. | 12-29-2011 |
20120004529 | AUTOMATIC DISPLAY OF PREVIOUSLY-ACQUIRED ENDOLUMINAL IMAGES - Apparatus and methods are provided for use with an endoluminal data-acquisition device that acquires a set of endoluminal data-points of a lumen of a subject's body at respective locations inside the lumen, a second endoluminal device, and a display configured to display images. At least one processor includes location-association functionality that associates a given data point acquired by the endoluminal data-acquisition device with a given location within the lumen. Location-determination functionality determines, by means of image processing, in an extraluminal image of the second endoluminal device, a current location of at least a portion of the second endoluminal device. Display-driving functionality drives the display to display an indication of the endoluminal data point associated with the location, in response to determining that the portion of the second device is currently at the location. Other applications are also described. | 01-05-2012 |
20120010493 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF 4D ELECTROMAGNETIC TOMOGRAPHIC (EMT) DIFFERENTIAL (DYNAMIC) FUSED IMAGING - Methods and systems for 4D electromagnetic tomographic differential (dynamic) fused imaging and mapping of electrical excitation of biological tissues. A plurality of electromagnetic field sources and detectors generate and detect an electromagnetic field domain in a target area. A biological tissue is positioned within the target area, and an electromagnetic field domain is generated via a selected plurality of sources. The field generated by each source is selectively characterized so that each of a selected plurality of detectors recognizes a source of field from the plurality of sources. The sources and detectors are controlled so that fields generated by the selected sources are received by the selected detectors after interacting with the tissue. Based on the field received at each detector, a complex interference (scattering) matrix is derived from the tissue-generated field, and anatomical and functional image information are reconstructed from this matrix. The anatomical information and functional information are fused for display. | 01-12-2012 |
20120010494 | OPTICAL THREE-DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURE MEASURING DEVICE AND STRUCTURE INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD THEREFOR - An optical three-dimensional structure measuring device including: optical three-dimensional structure information storing device ( | 01-12-2012 |
20120016221 | IMAGE STABILIZATION TECHNIQUES AND METHODS - Direct optical imaging of anatomical features and structures from within a biological organ in a dynamic environment (where the tissue being imaged is in motion due to cardiac rhythms, respiration, etc) presents certain image stability issues due (and/or related) to the motion of the target structure and may limit the ability of the user to visually interpret the image for the purposes of diagnostics and therapeutics. Systems and mechanisms for the purpose of actively stabilizing the image or for compiling and re-displaying the image information in a manner that is more suitable to interpretation by the user are disclosed. | 01-19-2012 |
20120016222 | MOVABLE IMAGING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INTEGRATED DISPLAY - A medical imaging system is provided. The medical imaging system comprises a movable acquisition device, a processing unit and a display, wherein the display is fixed to the movable acquisition device. | 01-19-2012 |
20120016223 | SKIN ADHESIVE AGENT FOR MAMMOGRAPHY PROCEDURES - A method of examining breast tissue of a patient's breast using a mammography machine including the steps of manipulating the patient's breast so that at least a portion of the patient's breast is positioned for examination by the mammography machine, the manipulation being facilitated by a skin adhesive agent comprising a quaternary ammonium compound, and examining the breast tissue of the positioned patient's breast using the mammography machine. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022357 | MEDICAL EMITTER/DETECTOR IMAGING/ALIGNMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - Improved methods and apparatuses for imaging during medical procedures in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention include use of an image correction algorithm. In various embodiments, an original image of a region of interest where a medical procedure occurring along a particular axis will be performed is created with a beam emitter and a generally planar detector. Due to the emitter not being aligned orthogonal to the detector, the original image will be skewed. Using a known location and orientation of the detector, a location and orientation of the emitter provided by a position monitoring system, and the original image, a processing system can execute the image correction algorithm to provide a corrected image to allow a surgeon to perform the medical procedure while viewing an accurate corrected image in real-time. | 01-26-2012 |
20120022358 | METHOD AND MAMMOGRAPHY APPARATUS FOR IMAGE-ASSISTED BIOPSY EXTRACTION - In a device and associated method, images of a biopsy unit in x-ray images for a second volume set are determined and replaced with x-ray image data of corresponding x-ray images for a first volume set, to produce a revised second volume set. | 01-26-2012 |
20120029337 | Medical image diagnosis apparatus and image data processing apparatus - A medical image diagnosis apparatus and an image data processing apparatus that diagnoses vascular invasion status of a tumor and decides the most appropriate therapy method for the tumor by extracting tumor candidate regions and vascular regions based on extensive volume data derived from covering a therapy target organ, and specifying an adjacent vascular region existing within a prescribed scope from a gravity center of a tumor. The tumor candidate regions and vascular regions are generated as 3D image data or MPR image data for submitting a recommended therapy method for the tumor by adding branch data of the adjacent vascular. | 02-02-2012 |
20120029338 | MEDICAL INSPECTION APPARATUS - A medical inspection apparatus includes a main body and an inspection module. The main body has at least two guide rails and at least two sliding blocks which are slidably coupled to the guide rails respectively, and the inspection module further includes at least one pivot, and each of the sliding blocks is pivotally connected to the inspection module with a pivot, so that the inspection module is capable of sliding on the sliding rail to regulate the height and rotating with respect to the pivot to regulate the inclination. Moreover, the main body has a first supporting component and a second supporting component, so that the combination of the first supporting component and the second supporting component can provide three-ended support for an inspected person. | 02-02-2012 |
20120029339 | ACCOUNTING FOR FORWARD MOTION DURING PULLBACK OF AN ENDOLUMINAL IMAGING PROBE - Apparatus and methods are described for use with an endoluminal data-acquisition device configured to acquire endoluminal data points while moving through a lumen of a subject's body generally in a first direction with respect to the lumen. While the endoluminal data-acquisition device is being moved through the lumen, a plurality of endoluminal data points of the lumen are acquired using the endoluminal data-acquisition device. It is determined that, at least one location, two or more endoluminal data points were acquired. An output is generated using a portion of the plurality of endoluminal data points of the lumen acquired using the endoluminal data-acquisition device, by using only a single endoluminal data point corresponding to the location. Other applications are also described. | 02-02-2012 |
20120035453 | IMPLANT AND SYSTEM FOR PREDICTING DECOMPENSATION - An implant predicts decompensation of a patient's heart based on an acoustic pressure measurement. The implant includes first and second acoustic transducers, which are matched to each other and which rest in/on the patient's thorax. The first acoustic transducer emits an acoustic signal which has at least one first signal portion having a first frequency. The second acoustic transducer is designed to receive and re-emit the emitted acoustic signal, or to reflect it, such that the first acoustic transducer receives the emitted acoustic signal. A signal processing unit communicates with at least one of the two acoustic transducers and determines an attenuation value as a function of the attenuation of the received acoustic signal versus the originally emitted acoustic signal, and provides a prediction signal as a function of a comparison of the attenuation value to a threshold value, wherein the prediction signal indicates the development of decompensation. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035454 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGING OF VESSEL SEGMENTS - An apparatus, method and software arrangement for imaging a surface of a structure that is in contact with an opaque fluid is provided. The apparatus includes an article of manufacture (e.g., a housing), a fluid delivery arrangement and an imaging arrangement. The housing includes an aperture formed in the article of manufacture. The fluid delivery arrangement is configured to deliver a volume of substantially transparent fluid to the aperture formed in the housing. The imaging arrangement is configured to image the surface of the structure using an imaging modality after the volume of the transparent fluid is delivered to the aperture, wherein the imaging arrangement and/or the article of manufacture is translated along the surface of the structure while imaging the surface of the structure. | 02-09-2012 |
20120035455 | Initiating a Scan in a Medical Imaging System - A method of initiating a scan in a medical imaging device includes detecting a patient-ready signal from a magnetically and radiographically inert communication device and automatically initiating the scan upon detecting the patient-ready signal. | 02-09-2012 |
20120046536 | Surgical Instrument Navigation Systems and Methods - A navigation system to track positions of surgical components during surgery of a patient. The navigation system includes a power source to emit a tracking signal during surgery of the patient, a first sensor mounted to a movable region of the patient to respond to the emitted tracking signal, and a control unit to track a position of the movable region relative to a fixed region of the patient as the movable region moves with respect to the fixed region, based on the response of the first sensor. The system can calibrated and register a movable reference point of the patient relative to a fixed reference point, and can maintain that reference point when the movable reference point moves in space during a surgical process. | 02-23-2012 |
20120046537 | Medical Imaging Device - A medical imaging device having a tubular receiving region to receive a patient on a patient couch is proposed. The medical imaging device has a wall at least partially enclosing the receiving region. The medical imaging device features a film disposed on the wall at least partially enclosing the receiving region for generating at least one virtual image. The virtual image refers to a visual mapping of a light-reflecting object and/or an illuminated object. | 02-23-2012 |
20120059239 | BODY MOTION DETECTION DEVICE AND METHOD, AS WELL AS RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND METHOD - An image obtaining unit obtains a plurality of radiographic images, which at least partially overlap with one another, taken by carrying out a plurality of imaging operations with respect to an identical subject. An imaging information obtaining unit obtains imaging information representing imaging conditions and an imaged subject during the imaging operations. A body motion index value obtaining unit obtains a body motion index value, which indicates a body motion of the subject during imaging of the radiographic images, based on the imaging information. | 03-08-2012 |
20120065489 | Method and Apparatus Pertaining to Optimizing a Radiation-Treatment Leaf-Sequence Plan - Determine first information regarding physical-movement limitations pertaining to at least one multi-leaf collimator and also determine second information regarding movement of the treatment target with respect to the given patient. Then, while optimizing a radiation-treatment leaf-sequence plan, constrain individually-planned leaf positions as a function, at least in part, of the first information, the second information, and planned positions of adjacent leaves. By one approach, the first information can comprise information regarding a speed (such as a maximum speed) at which individual leaves of the multi-leaf collimator are able to move during a treatment session. By one approach, the second information can comprise information regarding a distance (such as a maximum distance) that one or more parts of the treatment target may possibly move as compared to a presumed position used during the optimizing of the radiation-treatment leaf-sequence plan. | 03-15-2012 |
20120065490 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IN VIVO DETECTION OF CLOTS WITHIN CIRCULATORY VESSELS - A device and method of using the device to detect the presence and composition of clots and other target objects in a circulatory vessel of a living subject is described. In particular, devices and methods of detecting the presence and composition of clots and other target objects in a circulatory vessel of a living subject using in vivo photoacoustic flow cytometry techniques is described. | 03-15-2012 |
20120078079 | USE OF THE HEART RATE VARIABILITY CHANGE TO CORRELATE MAGNETIC FIELD CHANGES WITH PHYSIOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY AND METHOD THEREFOR - The invention relates to the use of a device to analyze heart rate variability to determine changes of the physiological state of a test subject due to a change of a magnetic field acting on the test subject, comprising the analysis of the heart rate variability of the test subject before and after the change of the acting magnetic field. A corresponding method comprises the steps of: analyzing the heart rate variability of the test subject; making changes to the magnetic field acting on the test subject; analyzing the heart rate variability of the test subject again; and evaluating a change of the physiological state of the test subject based on the change of the heart rate variability between the measurement before and after the magnetic field change. | 03-29-2012 |
20120083681 | Radiotherapy Planning and Delivery - Methods of radiotherapy planning and delivery are disclosed in which a radiation beam is directed towards a time-averaged mean position of the target during radiation-on. In addition, the radiation beam is gated to deliver radiation to the target only when the target is within a treatment volume centred on the mean position. Treatment plans according to embodiments of the present invention result in low doses to the surrounding healthy tissue, but high duty cycles and quicker treatment times. | 04-05-2012 |
20120083682 | ACOUSTIC SYSTEM FOR MONITORING THE PERFORMANCE OF LEFT VENTRICLE ASSIST DEVICES AND OTHER MECHANICAL DEVICES IMPLANTED IN A PATIENT'S BODY - Embodiments of the present invention are related to apparatus and methods for acoustically monitoring the performance of a medical device disposed within the body of a patient. According to one embodiment of an apparatus, the apparatus includes at least one acoustic sensor and a computer system that is connected to receive information from the acoustic sensor, wherein the acoustic sensor is adapted to receive a set of acoustic information that corresponds to acoustic activity within the body of said patient. The computer system is adapted for: (A) receiving the set of acoustic information, and (B) using the set of acoustic information to calculate location information relating to a location of a source of the acoustic activity. | 04-05-2012 |
20120083683 | DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS - A diagnosis apparatus encompasses a probe array ( | 04-05-2012 |
20120089003 | 2D3D OVERLAY ON A CPR BASIS FOR ANEURYSM REPAIR - In a method for a fluoroscopy controlled insertion of a stent into a curved aorta of a patient for aneurysm repair, a 3D volume image is obtained of the patient's aorta at the aneurysm. By knowing a registration of the 3D volume image to a C-arm of an angiographic system and projection geometry of the angiography system, the 3D volume images are projected atomically correct to a 2D fluoroscopy image of the angiography system. For the 2D3D overlay, the 3D volume image is displayed as a curved planar reconstruction in which the 2D fluoroscopy image and the 3D volume image are warped around a curved center line of the patient's curved aorta or around a curved guide instrument center line to correct for the curvature of the aorta so that the previously curved aorta center line or curved center line of the guide instrument turns into a straight line. The 2D3D overlay is used to visualize the insertion of the stent. | 04-12-2012 |
20120089004 | METHOD FOR DATA OSCILLATOR DETECTION USING FRICTIONALLY DAMPED HARMONIC OSCILLATORS - A system and method for time-frequency analysis in which acquired signals are modeled as frictionally damped harmonic oscillators having a friction factor that is not a free parameter are provided. The friction factor is selected as a function of the frequency value of the associated oscillator, such that an increase in both temporal and spectral resolution are provided over existing time-frequency analysis methods. The friction factor is also selected to define a spectral band, within which the given oscillator can detect data oscillations. The properly selected friction factor thereby provides the analysis over a broad spectral range that can span many orders of magnitude. | 04-12-2012 |
20120089005 | Multi-Modal Medical Imaging and Type Detection - A multi-modal medical imaging and type detection have been described have been disclosed. By combining a broadband radio imaging system and one or more other modalities of image processing an enhanced image and/or tissue classification can be produced. | 04-12-2012 |
20120101359 | FIXATION USING MULTIPLE CUSIONS OF TWO DIFFERENT TYPES - The present invention provides a fixation device comprising at least two inflatable and deflatable cushions ( | 04-26-2012 |
20120101360 | COLONOGRAPHY - A system includes an insufflator ( | 04-26-2012 |
20120108942 | Sterile Protective Membrane with Light Guides for a Medical Probe and Associated Method of Production - In the field of dual-mode medical probes, a simple device perfectly meets the double need for dual-modality and sterilization, and provides a sterile, disposable, or sterilizable protective membrane, also called a “glove” or “sock”, equipped with optical fibres. This protective membrane can be slipped onto an ultrasound probe. It therefore ensures both the dual-mode functionality and perfect sterilization of the probe, this being the desired effect. The protective membrane is easy to produce and easy to use. | 05-03-2012 |
20120108943 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY-INVASIVE OPTICAL-ACOUSTIC IMAGING - An imaging guidewire can include optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) directs light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound is sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal is optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed to develop a 2D or 3D image. The guidewire outer diameter is small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. Techniques for improving ultrasound reception include using a high compliance material, resonating the ultrasound sensing transducer, using an attenuation-reducing coating and/or thickness, and/or using optical wavelength discrimination. Techniques for improving the ultrasound generating transducer include using a blazed FBG, designing the photoacoustic material thickness to enhance optical absorption. Techniques for distinguishing plaque or vulnerable plaque may enhance the displayed image. | 05-03-2012 |
20120116202 | Surveillance of stress conditions of persons using micro-impulse radar - One or more computers are configured to determine a human stress condition corresponding to one or more physical or physiological parameters extracted from one or more micro-impulse radar (MIR) signals. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116203 | ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING FLOW FOR THE PRODUCTION OF PATIENT-SPECIFIC DEVICES COMPRISING UNIQUE PATIENT-SPECIFIC IDENTIFIERS - The invention relates to improved methods for the production of patient-specific medical devices such as patient-specific (surgical) guides, orthoses and prostheses based on unique patient-specific identifiers. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116204 | Device and Method for Photon Absorption Coefficient Measurement - The invention relates to a method and a device, suitable for the measurement of quantitative photon absorption coefficient in tissue, wherein the device comprises a first light source, suitable for generating photons, a light measurement element suitable for measuring at least one of: the intensity, the frequency, the frequency deviations and phase shift of the light to be measured, an ultrasound source, suitable for the generation of a defined sound wave pattern in a defined volume element within the tissue, wherein the ultrasound source is suitable for labelling the light, originating from the first light source or a second light source that enters the defined volume element within the tissue, and an ultrasound measurement element, suitable for measuring ultrasound, originating from the defined volume element within the tissue and generated by the light of the first light source that enters the defined volume element within the tissue. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116205 | IMAGING GUIDEWIRE - An imaging guidewire having at its distal tip at least a first Imaging sensor of a forward looking imaging system directed towards an area to be treated and configured to provide imaging data to a processing system, an optical imaging system directed towards an area that has already been treated and configured to provide imaging data of a treated area to the image processing system and at least one display device for displaying images processed by the image processing system. Operating the imaging guidewire during a medical procedure includes the steps of: Generating an image of an area to be treated; Upon completion of at least a portion of the medical treatment, generating an image of an area that has been treated; and displaying at least the first and second images; wherein each one of the first and second images can be generated by one or more imaging modalities. | 05-10-2012 |
20120123237 | MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM THAT REDIRECTS HEAT WASTE FOR PATIENT PALLET HEATING - According to certain embodiments, a medical imaging system includes an imager, a patient pallet, and a heating subsystem. The imager obtains measurement data of a patient. Further, the imager includes at least one electrical component that generates heat. The patient pallet supports the patient to be scanned by the imager. Further, the heating subsystem heats the patient pallet using the heat generated by the at least one electrical component of the imager. | 05-17-2012 |
20120123238 | TREATMENT PROCESS OF RADIOLOGICAL IMAGES FOR DETECTION OF STENOSIS - A treatment process of radiological images is provided. The process comprises obtaining at least one set of images. For each set, the process comprises: segmenting an at least one first image to obtain an at least one first segmented image and to detect a plurality of arteries of the region of interest and an at least one second image to obtain an at least one second segmented image and to detect and isolate the tool; defining in the at least one first segmented image a plurality of lines, wherein each line defines an artery; determining, from the second segmented image and the defined lines, an artery of interest corresponding to the artery in which a tool has been inserted; and applying a quantitative analysis algorithm of coronary lesions to the artery of interest to detect lesion of the artery of interest. | 05-17-2012 |
20120123239 | Medical Image Processing System and Processing Method - According to the invention, a medical image processing system comprises: a storage unit storing a medical image, a database server storing medical image information about the medical image, a computer aided diagnosis unit identifying an object to be identified and surrounding objects of the object using the medical image and the medical image information, and a position detector detecting a relative position of the identified object on the basis of the surrounding objects using the identified object and surrounding objects and storing information about the detected position. Accordingly, the medical image processing system can detect and provide the position of the object, and the medical image can be rapidly accurately interpreted at a hospital. | 05-17-2012 |
20120130221 | Micro Vein Enhancer - The present invention is a Miniature Vein Enhancer that includes a Miniature Projection Head, The Miniature Projection Head may be operated in one of three modes, AFM, DBM, and RTM. The Miniature Projection Head of the present invention projects an image of the veins of a patient, which aids the practitioner in pinpointing a vein for an intravenous drip, blood test, and the like, The Miniature projection head may have a cavity for a power source or it may have a power source located in a body portion of the Miniature Vein Enhancer. The Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to one of several improved needle protectors, or the Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to a body similar to a flashlight for hand held use. The Miniature Vein Enhancer of the present invention may also be attached to a magnifying glass, a flat panel display, and the like. | 05-24-2012 |
20120130222 | MEASURING APPARATUS - A measuring apparatus is used, the apparatus including a probe having an element detecting an acoustic wave that has propagated through an object, an acoustic lens disposed between the probe and the object, and a signal processor obtaining object information from an electrical signal based on the acoustic wave detected by the element of the probe. The probe is disposed at a position where the element of the probe is made acoustically conjugate to a surface on a probe side of the object by the acoustic lens. | 05-24-2012 |
20120130223 | ANNOTATION AND ASSESSMENT OF IMAGES - Annotations of medical images may be generated using one or more lexicons so that terminology is consistent across multiple exams, users, facilities, etc. Measurements of lesions may be provided using a bilinear measurement tool that allows easier bilinear measurements. Disease assessment models may be selected and applied as measurements are acquired in order to provide immediate determination of disease staging according to one or more selected assessment models. | 05-24-2012 |
20120136234 | APPARATUS - An apparatus includes two compression plates configured to compress a subject portion, and a compression release unit configured to move at least one of the two compression plates in a direction opposite to a direction in which the subject portion is compressed in a state in which the subject portion is compressed and power is not supplied. | 05-31-2012 |
20120136235 | APPARATUS - An apparatus includes a bed configured to support a subject and having an insertion hole through which a subject portion that is part of the subject is inserted; a fixed compression plate and a movable compression plate configured to hold and compress the subject portion when the subject portion is inserted through the insertion hole, the movable compression plate being movable relative to the fixed compression plate; and a unit including the fixed compression plate and the movable compression plate. The unit is movable relative to the bed. | 05-31-2012 |
20120143036 | Systems and Methods for Determining a Zero Baseline Value of a Channel from a Detector Device - A representative method for determining a zero baseline value of a channel from a detector device of a nuclear medicine imagining system to allow for correction caused by noise or interference on the detector device includes calculating a first value of a baseline based on a first sample of analog electrical signals from analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) coupled to the detector device; comparing a predetermined value with the first value of the baseline; determining whether there is a small change between the predetermined value and the first value of the baseline; and responsive to determining that the small change exists, adjusting the baseline of the ADCs by a fraction of the small change based on the comparison between the predetermined value and the first value of the baseline. | 06-07-2012 |
20120143037 | Accurate Pelvic Fracture Detection for X-Ray and CT Images - Accurate pelvic fracture detection is accomplished with automated X-ray and Computed Tomography (CT) images for diagnosis and recommended therapy. The system combines computational methods to process images from two different modalities, using Active Shape Model (ASM), spline interpolation, active contours, and wavelet transform. By processing both X-ray and CT images, features which may be visible under one modality and not under the other are extracted and validates and confirms information visible in both. The X-ray component uses hierarchical approach based on directed Hough Transform to detect pelvic structures, removing the need for manual initialization. The X-ray component uses cubic spline interpolation to regulate ASM deformation during X-ray image segmentation. Key regions of the pelvis are first segmented and identified, allowing detection methods to be specialized to each structure using anatomical knowledge. The CT processing component is able to distinguish bone from other non-bone objects with similar visual characteristics, such a blood and contrast fluid, permitting detection and quantification of soft tissue hemorrhage. The CT processing component draws attention to slices where irregularities are detected, reducing the time to fully examine a pelvic CT scan. The quantitative measurement of bone displacement and hemorrhage area are used as input for a trauma decision-support system, along with physiological signals, injury details and demographic information. | 06-07-2012 |
20120150012 | ACOUSTIC WAVE MEASURING APPARATUS - An acoustic wave measuring apparatus includes a plate pressed against a subject, a probe that has an acoustic wave conversion unit for receiving an acoustic wave emitted from the subject through the plate to convert into an electric signal, a seal member provided on the probe so as to enclose a periphery of the acoustic wave conversion unit for forming a space to hold lubricant between the plate and the acoustic wave conversion unit, a providing unit that provides the lubricant into the space formed by the seal member and a lubricant monitoring unit that detects whether the space is filled with the lubricant. | 06-14-2012 |
20120150013 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT OF ANALYTE CONCENTRATION IN THE EYE - An in vivo determination of the presence or concentration of an endogenous or exogenous substance by photoacoustically assaying the substance in the eye and correlating the presence or concentration of the substance in the eye to the presence or concentration of the substance in the blood, without removing a tissue or fluid sample from the body for assay. The eye, unlike other body sites such as the skin, has a relatively constant pressure and temperature, providing an additional utility for the inventive method. | 06-14-2012 |
20120150014 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NONINVASIVELY MONITORING CONDITIONS OF A SUBJECT - A method and system are presented for use in determining one or more parameters of a subject. A region of interest of the subject is irradiated with acoustic tagging radiation, which comprises at least one acoustic tagging beam. At least a portion of the region of interest is irradiated with at least one electromagnetic beam of a predetermined frequency range. Electromagnetic radiation response of the at least portion of the region of interest is detected and measured data indicative thereof is generated. The detected response comprises electromagnetic radiation tagged by the acoustic radiation. This enables processing of the measured data indicative of the detected electromagnetic radiation response to determine at least one parameter of the subject in a region corresponding to the locations in the medium at which the electromagnetic radiation has been tagged by the acoustic radiation, and outputting data indicative of the at least one determined parameter. | 06-14-2012 |
20120157819 | IMAGING METHOD AND IMAGING DEVICE FOR DISPLAYING DECOMPRESSED VIEWS OF A TISSUE REGION - A method visualizes a tissue region. The method includes the following steps: inserting the tissue region into the capturing region of a first imaging modality, with the tissue region assuming a first shape; capturing the interior of the tissue region by the first imaging modality; establishing a first image volume of the interior of the tissue region when it assumes the first shape; and first transforming of the first image volume into a second image volume, which represents a surface and interior regions of the tissue when the tissue region assumes a second shape. | 06-21-2012 |
20120157820 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING DISC HAEMORRHAGES - A method for detecting disc haemorrhages in a retinal fundus image. The method includes (a) identifying a ring-shaped region of interest in the retinal fundus image encompassing the optic disc boundary; (b) removing blood vessel regions in the identified region of interest; (c) detecting candidate disc haemorrhages from the removed blood vessels regions in the identified region of interest; and (d) screening the candidate disc haemorrhages. The detected disc haemorrhages may be used to aid in the detection of glaucoma. | 06-21-2012 |
20120157821 | SKIN STATE ANALYZING METHOD, SKIN STATE ANALYZING APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM STORING SKIN STATE ANALYZING PROGRAM - A skin state analyzing method for analyzing the skin state of an examinee using an image of the skin of the examinee includes an analyzing step of analyzing at least one of texture/pores, spots, skin tone, and sebum of the skin from the image, a storing step of storing the image and an analysis result obtained from the analyzing step in association with skin examination date/time information and examinee information, a display screen generating step of generating a screen displaying the image and the analysis result of the examinee stored in the storing step, and an output step of outputting the information generated in the display screen generating step. | 06-21-2012 |
20120165646 | COMPOSITE PARTICLE, CONTRAST AGENT FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING, AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - Regarding a composite particle in the related art, an antibody and a dye are bound to the surface of the particle. Therefore, it is not possible to bind both the antibody and the dye high in number. Accordingly, the present invention provides a composite particle, wherein a large acoustic wave can be emitted and both the antibody and the dye can be bound high in number. A composite particle including a core particle, a dye bound to the above described core particle, and an antibody, wherein the above described antibody is bound to the above described dye, is suitable for use. | 06-28-2012 |
20120165647 | APPARATUS FOR MEASURING SIZES OF HUMAN BODY USING MILLIMETER WAVES - Disclosed is an apparatus for measuring sizes of a human body, such as the length of an arm, the size of a waist and the width of a shoulder, in the state that a person does not take off its clothes, using millimeter waves. The apparatus includes a plurality of millimeter-wave transmission/reception units, a rotation unit and a digital signal processing unit. The plurality of millimeter-wave transmission/reception units are arranged in a circular shape around an object to be measured, transmit a millimeter wave to the object to be measured, and receive a signal reflected or scattered by the object to be measured. The rotation unit rotates a circular structure in which the plurality of millimeter-wave transmission/reception units are arranged. The digital signal processing unit analyzes the object to be measured using size and phase information of the signal received by the plurality of millimeter-wave transmission/reception units. | 06-28-2012 |
20120165648 | MOBILE POSTURAL SCREENING METHOD AND SYSTEM - A mobile, hand-held communication device with a display screen and a camera is programmed to perform a postural screening method. An image of a patient is acquired on the display screen having an array of pixels. A pixel to distance ratio of the displayed image is determined. A postural displacement of the patient in the displayed image is calculated using the determined ratio. A gyroscope, accelerometer and/or a level of the device is used to level the camera before capturing the image with the camera. Reference lines are overlaid on the display screen and the image to enable alignment of the image. A reference line on the display screen is used for normalizing a known distance in the aligned image to a reference distance of a known number of pixels on the screen for determining the ratio. | 06-28-2012 |
20120172698 | IMAGING SYSTEM - Techniques are described that combine intravascular ultrasound (“IVUS”) and optical coherence tomography into a single catheter that utilizes a micro-motor driven imaging core for imaging of patient tissue, e.g., a blood vessel wall. In one example, an imaging assembly includes a catheter, an imaging core with a micro-motor, one or more transducer conductors, an optical coherence tomography apparatus, and one or more optical fibers in communication with the optical coherence tomography apparatus. | 07-05-2012 |
20120172699 | RADIOACTIVE-EMISSION-MEASUREMENT OPTIMIZATION TO SPECIFIC BODY STRUCTURES - A method for predefining a set of radioactive-emission measurement views, for radioactive-emission imaging after an administration of a radiopharmaceutical, the method being tailored to a specific body structure and optimized with respect to the information gained about the body structure and based on modeling body-structure, based on its geometry and anatomical constraints, which limit accessibility to the body structure. | 07-05-2012 |
20120172700 | Systems and Methods for Viewing and Analyzing Anatomical Structures - Systems and methods for supporting a diagnostic workflow from a computer system are disclosed herein. In accordance with one implementation, a set of pre-identified anatomical landmarks associated with one or more structures of interest within one or more medical images are presented to a user. In response to a user input selecting at least one or more regions of interest including one or more of the pre-identified anatomical landmarks, the user is automatically navigated to the selected region of interest. In another implementation, a second user input selecting one or more measurement tools is received. An evaluation may be automatically determined based on one or more of the set of anatomical landmarks in response to the second user input. | 07-05-2012 |
20120172701 | Apparatus and Method for Acquiring Diagnostic Information - Method and apparatus for acquiring diagnostic information comprising:-a data acquisition module for acquiring image data of at least a part of a person's anatomy,-a planning module defining with reference to a spatial position and orientation of an example anatomy at least one series of scanning steps to be executed with the data acquisition module on an actual anatomy,-a user interface to adjust imaging parameters to be used in a selected scanning step of a series of scanning steps, for acquiring image data of that actual anatomy, wherein-the user interface displays for every step of the selected series of scanning steps predefined scanning parameters pertaining to the example anatomy, and-the user interface is arranged to have a user select the actual imaging parameters to be used in each such step of the selected series of scanning steps with reference to a pre-established three-dimensional survey volume of the actual anatomy. | 07-05-2012 |
20120179021 | SPECT Image Reconstruction Methods and Systems - Image reconstruction techniques for a medical imaging system are provided that include receiving pixel data from a gamma camera of an imaging system, and calculating a subsequent voxel value from the pixel data by subtracting an expected pixel value from a measured pixel value of the pixel data to produce a difference and correcting a previous voxel value by adding a weighted value of the difference to the previous voxel value. An imaging system is also provided. | 07-12-2012 |
20120179022 | BIOINFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - The present invention provides a bioinformation acquisition apparatus in which when light is radiated to a test object, a flux of light emitted outside from the test object through diffusion effect in the object is reused, improving use efficiency of the radiated light. The apparatus having a light source for radiating a flux of light to the test object and a detector for detecting a signal output based on radiation of the flux of light, includes a reflective member adapted to reflect a flux of light emitted out of the test object when the flux of light is radiated thereto, the reflective member is placed closer to an irradiation area on a surface of the test object than the light source to cover at least a part of the irradiation area from above, and configured to be equal to or larger than the irradiation area. | 07-12-2012 |
20120184839 | TWO-PART MEDICAL TRACKING MARKER - The invention relates to a medical tracking marker ( | 07-19-2012 |
20120190962 | METHOD FOR COMPUTER-ASSISTED CONFIGURATION OF A MEDICAL IMAGING DEVICE - In a method for computer-assisted configuration of a medical imaging device for examination of a patient, training data are provided that include multiple variants of protocols in the form of protocol parameter sets for operation of the imaging device. The training data also include patient-specific parameter sets with one or more features of a patient, the patient-specific parameter sets being associated with the respective protocol parameter sets. Based on the training data, relations between the protocol parameter sets and the patient-specific parameter sets are learned with a data-driven leaning method and stored as patterns in a knowledge base. In an application phase, a protocol parameter set suitable for the examination of the patient can be determined with the use of the patterns in the knowledge base, depending on features of a patient that are provided to the imaging device. | 07-26-2012 |
20120190963 | MEASURING APPARATUS - A measuring apparatus includes a shape maintaining member that maintains a shape of at least a part of a subject, an element that receives an acoustic wave through the shape maintaining member and converts the acoustic wave into a first electric signal, the acoustic wave being generated in the subject when the subject is irradiated with light, and a processing unit that generates image data using the first electric signal. The processing unit determines, on the basis of the first electric signal, a first time from when the acoustic wave is generated in the subject to when the acoustic wave reaches a reception surface of the element. The processing unit converts the first electric signal into a second electric signal using a difference between the first time and a second time in which the acoustic wave travels from a virtual detection region set near a subject-side surface of the shape maintaining member to the reception surface of the element, the second electric signal being assumed to have been obtained by receiving the acoustic wave at the virtual detection region. | 07-26-2012 |
20120190964 | Vasculature and lymphatic system imaging and ablation - Devices, methods, and systems related to imaging and ablation are disclosed. | 07-26-2012 |
20120203093 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC DETECTION OF DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS - Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus, systems and methods for the detection of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) using photoacoustic measurement of hemoglobin in different states of oxgyenation within tissue. One embodiment of a system for DVT detection comprises at least a first and second light source that emit light at first and second wavelengths, an acoustic transducer, a data converter and a processor. The first and second light sources are directed on the patient's skin to produce a photoacoustic signal (PS) correlated to an amount of absorbance of the first and second wavelengths by a target region of tissue beneath the patient's skin. The acoustic transducer detects the PS and transduces it into an electrical signal which is correlated to the PS. The data converter converts the electrical signal into a digital signal which is analyzed by the processor to detect the presence of DVT within the target region. | 08-09-2012 |
20120209103 | SURGERY-ASSISTANCE APPARATUS, METHOD AND PROGRAM - A smallest enclosing body that encloses an abnormal region is set. A part of an organ, and the part belonging to the inside of an elliptic parabolic surface or a circular conic surface that circumscribes the set enclosing body, is extracted as a partial region. A region of a structure dominating the organ is extracted from the obtained medical image. A part of the organ, and the part including the abnormal region and being dominated by a part of the structure extending from a predetermined position in the extracted region of the structure toward the part of the organ including the abnormal region, is extracted as a dominance region. The partial region or the dominance region is determined as the excision region based on a predetermined excision region determination condition. | 08-16-2012 |
20120209104 | ELASTIC WAVE RECEIVING APPARATUS, ELASTIC WAVE RECEIVING METHOD, PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS, AND PROGRAM - An elastic wave receiving apparatus includes: a probe that receives an elastic wave generated from a subject; a plate-like compression plate that supports the subject and whose surface is scanned by the probe; a motor for driving the probe; a controller that supplies a drive signal to the motor so that the probe moves to a predetermined target position on the compression plate; and a load estimating unit that preliminarily acquires and stores a physical value corresponding to a load generated at the time of scanning the compression plate by the probe. The controller corrects the drive signal so that the probe moves to the target position regardless of the load by using the physical value stored in the load estimating unit. | 08-16-2012 |
20120215090 | IMAGING SYSTEM - A method and apparatus for reconstruction of a region of interest for an object is provided. The reconstruction of the object may be based on chords which may fill a part, all, or more than all of the region of interest. Using chords for reconstruction may allow for reducing data acquired and/or processing for reconstructing a substantially exact image of the ROI. Moreover, various methodologies may be used in reconstructing the image, such as backprojection-filtration, and modified filtration backprojection. | 08-23-2012 |
20120215091 | IMAGING APPARATUS FOR DIAGNOSIS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - An imaging apparatus for diagnosis and associated control method constructs multiple cross-sectional images in an axial direction inside the body lumen based on line data generated by radially operating a transmitting and receiving unit, and includes a receiving mechanism which receives a count value from a reference position of the transmitting and receiving unit, storage for storing the count value and the line data correlated with each other, an arrangement for constructing a longitudinal-sectional image by aligning the line data based on the count value, a display which displays the longitudinal-sectional image; and a mechanism which reads out line data correlated with the same count value as that of the line data disposed at the position appointed by the user on the displayed longitudinal-sectional image and reconstructing the cross-sectional image. | 08-23-2012 |
20120220851 | IMAGING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING OF SMALL ANIMALS - An imaging device configured for optoacoustic imaging of an object, including an illumination device including optical components arranged to illuminate the object, a detector device comprising an array of detector elements arranged in a tank and arranged to detect acoustic signals created in the object, and a container device including a tank arranged to accommodate the detector device, the object and a matching transmission medium, a holding device adapted to position and move the object relative to the illumination device and the detector device, wherein the optical components are arranged in the tank to illuminate the object from different directions. | 08-30-2012 |
20120220852 | PATIENT SUPPORT MOTION CONTROL APPARATUS - An imaging system ( | 08-30-2012 |
20120226134 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THERAPY MACHINE - A system for controlling a therapy machine is a method for controlling a therapy machine for irradiating radiation onto a patient whose body has been stabilized. The method acquires a video signal constituted by a plurality of pixels including information on the posture of the patient; converts the video signal to digital format, and generates video data including information on characteristic values of each of the plurality of pixels; and calculates, on the basis of the information, the number of pixels from among the plurality of pixels of which the characteristic values lie outside a predetermined range. Then, the therapy machine is controlled based on the calculated number. Thus, medical accidents due to inattention during observation by therapists may be prevented, and the accuracy of therapy through the therapy machine may be improved. | 09-06-2012 |
20120232375 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMAGE ANALYSIS OF SELECTED TISSUE STRUCTURES - A method for analysing a sample comprising a first material and a second material of generally different densities and having a junction therebetween, the method comprising defining a region of interest in a cross sectional image of at least a portion of the sample that includes said junction, determining a density profile of the sample within the region of interest and crossing the junction, determining a representative density of said second material, and analysing said sample using said junction used to distinguish said first and second materials. | 09-13-2012 |
20120238858 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS AND SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION METHOD - A subject information acquisition apparatus of the present invention acquires a sound speed in the subject by using a signal outputted from a first probe when a first probe receives an elastic wave, a member-to-member distance information between a first holding member and the second holding member, an amount of deformation of a first holding member measured by a first holding member deformation amount measuring unit, an amount of deformation of a second holding member measured by a second holding member deformation amount measuring unit, position information of the first holding member deformation amount measuring unit, and position information of the second holding member deformation amount measuring unit. | 09-20-2012 |
20120238859 | MEASURING APPARATUS - The present invention employs a measuring apparatus having: a holding plate for holding a subject; an acoustic matching member provided between the subject and the holding plate; and a probe for receiving an acoustic wave propagating through the subject via the acoustic matching member and the holding plate, wherein the acoustic matching member includes a first portion that contacts the subject and a second portion that contacts the holding plate, and the second portion has greater rigidity than the first portion. | 09-20-2012 |
20120253166 | CANAL TYPE MINI-APPARATUSES INSERTABLE IN EARS FOR DIAGNOSING AND CURING DISEASES - Provided is a canal type mini-apparatus insertable in an ear for diagnosing a disease. The canal type mini-apparatus includes a canal body and a protrusion body. The canal body is insertable in an ear and includes a bio-data detection unit at an end thereof The bio-data detection unit is configured to detect biological data from an inside of the ear for diagnosing a disease. The protrusion body is disposed at the other end of the canal body and including a data transceiving unit. The data transceiving unit is configured to control the bio-data detection unit and transmit/receive a signal to/from an analyzing device. When the canal type mini-apparatus is inserted in the ear, at least a portion of the protrusion body protrudes outward from the ear. | 10-04-2012 |
20120259196 | MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD - A medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a simplified positron emission computed tomography (PET) image data generating unit, a PET image data generating unit, and a display. The simplified PET image data generating unit generates simplified PET image data based on information obtained by projecting the position of a generation source of a gamma ray emitted from a subject to whom a radioisotope is administered onto a predetermined projection surface in a predetermined direction. The PET image data generating unit generates, based on an evaluation result of the simplified PET image data, PET image data by using projection data in the PET imaging mode generated based on a detection result of the gamma ray emitted from the subject. The display displays the simplified PET image data and the PET image data. | 10-11-2012 |
20120259197 | RECTAL BALLOON WITH RADIATION SENSOR AND/OR MARKERS - A rectal balloon apparatus has a shaft with a fluid passageway extending therethrough. A balloon is affixed over an end of the shaft such that the fluid passageway communicates with an interior of the balloon. The balloon has a laterally flat surface thereon when inflated. The laterally flat surface of the balloon has a longitudinal groove formed thereon. The balloon has a radiation sensor positioned within the groove and a plurality of fiducial markers positioned on a surface of the balloon. A stopper is slidably mounted on the shaft. | 10-11-2012 |
20120259198 | SUBJECT INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS - There is provided a subject information processing apparatus including a first acoustic conversion element that receives an acoustic wave having a first frequency reflected inside a subject and converts the acoustic wave into an analog signal, a second acoustic conversion element that receives an acoustic wave having a second frequency generated when light is irradiated to a subject and converts the acoustic wave into an analog signal, an A/D converter that converts the analog signal into a digital signal, a data memory that retains the digital signal, and a controller that instructs the data memory to output the digital signal at a predetermined sampling frequency for each receiving axis. | 10-11-2012 |
20120271142 | Apparatus for Migrating Anatomic Parts and Method of Using the Apparatus - An apparatus comprises a first anatomic positioner for migrating a first anatomic part of a patient on a patient platform. The first anatomic positioner comprises an arch structure being configured to be operable for engaging the patient's shoulder area. A strap structure is joined to the arch structure to extend caudally along the patient's side. A locking system is configured to be operable for longitudinal movement along a side of the patient platform and for being locked at a position along the movement. The locking system is further configured for engaging the strap structure for pulling the arch structure to caudally migrate the first anatomic part. Another apparatus further comprises a second anatomic positioner for migrating a second anatomic part of a patient on a patient platform, the second anatomic positioner comprising a mirror image of the first anatomic positioner. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271143 | Fatigue Indices and Uses Thereof - Example embodiments may relate to a system, method, apparatus, and computer readable media configured for monitoring a user performing an athletic movement and/or exercise and generating a fatigue value. Fatigue values may be determined for different groups. In one embodiment, a first value is determined for a muscle fatigue value and a second value is determined for a respiratory value. In another embodiment, a first value may pertain to a first muscle group and a second value may pertain to a second muscle group. A fatigue index may be created from values obtained during an athletic movement and/or a workout session. In further embodiments, a cumulative fatigue index may be determined. A cumulative fatigue index may consider values obtained during several workout sessions. Further, data obtained outside of workout sessions may be considered in determinations relating to fatigue values and/or indices. | 10-25-2012 |
20120271144 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING DIAGNOSIS IMAGE, DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM, AND MEDICAL IMAGE SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING THE METHOD - A method of generating a diagnosis image includes receiving signals reflected from a subject; calculating a beamforming coefficient using the received signals; synthesizing each of the plurality of low resolution images using the calculated beamforming coefficient; and synthesizing a high resolution image using the synthesized plurality of low resolution images. | 10-25-2012 |
20120277570 | 3D Tracking of an HDR Source Using a Flat Panel Detector - A method and apparatus are used to compare in real-time an intended radiation treatment plan with a delivered plan. Markers are arranged, on a subject receiving radiation, at three-dimensional (3D) positions between a two dimensional radiation detector and a radiation source and are used to reconstruct the actual position of a high dose rate (HDR) source in three-dimensional (3D) space. The detected position is compared with the intended radiation path of the treatment plan. Adjustments can be made to the treatment plan if the detected position and the intended path do not correspond. | 11-01-2012 |
20120289811 | MASK ON MONITOR HERNIA LOCATOR - A method of tracking the location of a hernia defect is disclosed, the method including providing a display device, a camera adapted to transmit an image to the display device, a marking surface disposed on the display device and a marker adapted to alter the marking surface when applied to the marking surface. The method includes receiving an image of a hernia defect from the camera and displaying the received image on the display device and marking the shape and position of the hernia defect on the marking surface by applying the marker to the marking surface. Alternatively the display device may be marked by executing by the processor a computer program to mark the shape and position of the hernia defect on the display device. | 11-15-2012 |
20120289812 | APPARATUS FOR ACQUIRING BIOFUNCTIONAL INFORMATION, METHOD FOR ACQUIRING BIOFUNCTIONAL INFORMATION, AND PROGRAM THEREFOR - An adverse effect of position displacement during measurements in calculating oxygen saturation can be decreased with an apparatus having: an acoustic wave detector, for receiving acoustic waves inside a subject, and for converting the acoustic waves to signals; and a processing apparatus for deriving biofunctional information using profiles of absorption coefficient derived from the signals, in which the processing apparatus includes: a first unit for deriving, from signals corresponding to light of first wavelength, first data showing a profile of first absorption coefficient, and from signals corresponding to light of second wavelength, second data showing a profile of second absorption coefficient; and a second unit for deriving the biofunctional information using the first and second data, and in which the second data has lower image spatial resolution than the first data. | 11-15-2012 |
20120289813 | Acoustic Imaging Probe Incorporating Photoacoustic Excitation - Embodiments of the present invention provide for a photoacoustic imaging probe for use in a photoacoustic imaging system, said probe comprising a cohesive composite acoustic lens incorporating aspheric geometry and exhibiting low or practically no measurable dispersion of acoustic waves constructed of at least one material with a low acoustic impedance and attenuation and a relatively low acoustic velocity and at least one other material with a low acoustic impedance and attenuation and a relatively high acoustic velocity is immersed in preferably a low acoustic velocity and low acoustic impedance fluid. The lens may be designed as an acoustic reflective lens or an acoustic lens incorporating spheric geometry. The lens focuses acoustic waves on an acoustic imager which detects the image. The lens may be considered to be essentially monochromatic. | 11-15-2012 |
20120296192 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - The present invention provides a photoacoustic imaging apparatus, having: a light source; a plurality of detecting elements for detecting an acoustic wave generated from a surface of an object and a light absorber inside the object, and converting the acoustic wave into a detection signal; and a signal processor for generating image data based on detection signals detected, wherein the signal processor has: a Fourier transformer for performing Fourier transform, in a spatial direction, on the signals detected at a same receiving time so as to obtain spatial frequency signals; and an inverse-Fourier transformer for performing inverse Fourier-transform after reducing components exhibiting less than a predetermined frequency from among the spatial frequency signals so as to obtain second signals, the signal processor generating image data using the second signals. | 11-22-2012 |
20120302863 | Medical Procedure Localizing Aid - A medical procedure localization aid produces reference marks on both the patient and the medical imaging scan. The aid is defined by a substrate sheet having indicia on one side that is opaque to medical imaging radiation and indicia on a second side that is transferable to a patient. The indicia on the first side is displayed on the scan image and the indicia on the second side is imprinted on the patient. By visualizing the location of a target on the scan image relative to the indicia on the scan image and comparing that with indicia on the patient, a medical professional may reliably locate where a medical procedure should be performed. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302864 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - A subject information acquisition apparatus includes an electromechanical conversion element which receives an elastic wave generated by irradiating with an electromagnetic wave an object in a subject and converts the received elastic wave into an electric signal; a moving device moves the electromechanical conversion element; a signal processing device calculates an image value based on the electric signal. The moving device moves the electromechanical conversion element from a first position to a second position, the electromechanical conversion element receives the elastic wave at the first position and converts the received elastic wave into a first electric signal, and receives the elastic wave at the second position and converts the received elastic wave into a second electric signal; when the electromechanical conversion element is situated at the second position, the signal processing device calculates a first image value at a specified position inside the subject based on the first electric signal. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302865 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A subject information acquiring apparatus including a cover which intercepts light, two plates which hold a subject, a laser light source, and a probe which receives an acoustic wave generated from the subject to which the light is emitted from the laser light source, wherein the plates, the laser light source, and the probe are covered by the cover, wherein the cover has a first aperture for inserting the subject as part of a subject person into the cover, and a second aperture which can be opened and closed so that an operator can perform a procedure by inserting a hand of the operator into the cover in the position in which the plane extending each of the plates crosses the cover, is used. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302866 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus includes a detector that outputs detection signals by detecting acoustic waves generated at surfaces and an inner portion of a sample by irradiating the sample with light; and a signal processing unit that generates image data using the detection signal. The signal processing unit calculates an average sound speed in the inner portion of the sample by using the detection signal of the acoustic wave generated at the surface of the sample and propagated through the inner portion of the sample, and generates the image data using the average sound speed and the detection signal of the acoustic wave generated at the inner portion of the sample. | 11-29-2012 |
20120310074 | MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, A MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS, AND A MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING PROGRAM - A medical image processing apparatus includes a morphological identification part, a function calculator and a display processor. The morphological identification part identifies morphological information related to thickness of a heart muscle of a subject or thickness of surrounding sites thereof from medical image data obtained by capturing an image of the subject using a medical imaging apparatus. The function calculator determines cardiac function information related to movement of the heart muscle of the subject based on the medical image data. The display processor causes a display to display a combination of the identified morphological information and the calculated cardiac function information which is identified by color. The medical image processing apparatus can easily diagnose diseases. | 12-06-2012 |
20120310075 | MEDICAL MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of measuring a range of movement of a joint of a patient including the steps of: capturing an image including at least part of the patient; processing measurement points positioned on the image; determining a measurement axis that connects the measurement points; determining a reference axis; and measuring an angle at an intersection of the measurement axis and the reference axis according to the range of movement of the joint of the patient. The invention also resides in a method of measuring a distance or displacement in an image including the steps of: providing a scale for the image; capturing the image including at least part of a patient and the scale; positioning a marker on the image that defines a distance to be measured; and measuring the distance using the marker and the scale. | 12-06-2012 |
20120316421 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED DISEASE ASSESSMENT IN CAPSULE ENDOSCOPY - A system and method for automated image analysis which may enhance, for example, capsule endoscopy diagnosis. The system and methods may reduce the time required for diagnosis, and also help improve diagnostic consistency using an interactive feedback tool. Furthermore, the system and methods may be applicable to any procedure where efficient and accurate visual assessment of a large set of images is required. | 12-13-2012 |
20120323107 | Methods for Assessing Tophus Response During Urate Lowering Therapy in Treatment Tophaceous Gout - Systems and methods for assessment of the reduction of tophus burden with effective urate-lowering therapy were developed. The first application of computer-assisted methods for accessing tophus response included standardized digital photography, computer assisted measurement and analysis of tophi by an independent reader and blinded central reader paradigm. The ability of the method for computer-assisted analysis of digital photographs to quantify reduction in tophus size demonstrates its feasibility as a urate-lowering therapy monitoring tool in the treatment of tophaceous gout. | 12-20-2012 |
20120323108 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ASSESSING ACTIVITY OF AN ORGAN AND USES THEREOF - Methods and apparatus are provided for imaging activity of an organ of a subject for diagnosis and prognosis of pathology or injury to the organ, where unaffected portions of the organ are used as a reference for assessing activity of afflicted areas of the organ. | 12-20-2012 |
20120323109 | Photon Measurement Method and Apparatus - A system and method for measuring photons utilizing a low-power light source modulated with a code sequence to interrogate a sample of interest. Preferably a portion of the scattered light from the sample is detected by a photo-detector. A correlation of the photo-detector signal and the code sequence produces an estimate of the distribution of flight times for photons traveling from the source to the detector. | 12-20-2012 |
20120330127 | GENERATION OF SCAN DATA AND FOLLOW-UP CONTROL COMMANDS - A method to generate scan data with a medical imaging technology system includes the steps of receiving control commands to control an imaging scan process and/or an image output via a user interface, implementing an imaging scan process with the imaging system, providing image data generated by the scan process; and linking the image data with a data set representing the user interface during the reception to form the scan data. A medical imaging technology system is designed to implement such a method. | 12-27-2012 |
20130006087 | SIMILAR CASE SEARCHING APPARATUS AND SIMILAR CASE SEARCHING METHOD - A similar case searching apparatus comprising: a weight determining unit which determines the weight to each of feature quantities extracted from an interpretation target image, based on predetermined two-data correlation information defining the correlation between the feature quantity and one of at least one image interpretation item and a disease name both included in an image interpretation report of a medical image included in a case data item registered in a case database, such that the weight is larger as the correlation is higher; and a similar case searching unit which searches for a similar case data item including a similar image, by weighting, using the weight, each image feature quantity in a first set extracted from the interpretation target image and a corresponding one of the image feature quantities in a second set extracted from the medical image, and comparing the weighted first set and the weighted second set. | 01-03-2013 |
20130006088 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS, PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD, AND PROGRAM FOR EXECUTING PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - An optical property distribution, such as an absorption coefficient of the inside of a subject, is highly precisely acquired. | 01-03-2013 |
20130006089 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS, PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD, AND PROGRAM - A position of a light absorber existing in a subject and an initial sound pressure of an acoustic wave generated at the light absorber are calculated from an electric signal converted from the received acoustic wave generated in response to irradiation of the subject with light. An optical absorption coefficient and an optical scattering coefficient of the subject are calculated using the position of the light absorber and the initial sound pressure of the acoustic wave generated at the position of the light absorber. A light quantity distribution in the subject is calculated using the optical absorption coefficient and the optical scattering coefficient of the subject. An optical absorption coefficient distribution in the subject is calculated using the light quantity distribution in the subject and an initial sound pressure distribution in the subject obtained from the electric signal. | 01-03-2013 |
20130006090 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus includes holding members configured to hold a subject, an acoustic wave conversion unit configured to receive an acoustic wave generated by irradiating the subject, which is held by the holding members, with light from a light source and convert the acoustic wave into an electric signal, a processing unit configured to generate image data from the electric signal, and an imaging unit configured to capture an optical pattern generated on a light diffusion member by emitting the light to the light diffusion member arranged on a surface of a side where the subject is irradiated with the light in the holding members where the holding members contact the subject in holding the subject, wherein the processing unit calculates light absorption coefficient distribution in the subject based on the optical pattern captured by the imaging unit and the electric signal acquired by the acoustic wave conversion unit. | 01-03-2013 |
20130023752 | Medical Screening and Diagnostics Based on Air-Coupled Photoacoustics - Surface selective photoacoustic (PA) medical imaging is introduced. Surface selective PA imaging is responsive to surface features and does not image sub-surface features, in contrast to conventional PA imaging. The surface PA signal can be considerably larger than the bulk PA signal, for an air-coupled (or gas-coupled) acoustic transducer. Distinguishing these two signals based on time of arrival at the transducer can further distinguish the two signals. This approach provides numerous advantages. | 01-24-2013 |
20130030278 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING LESION AND LESION DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS - An apparatus for detecting a lesion is provided. The apparatus includes an extracting unit configured to extract at least one tissue region from an image of tissue regions, a setting unit configured to set at least one of the at least one extracted tissue region as a lesion detection candidate region, and a detecting unit configured to detect a lesion from the lesion detection candidate region. | 01-31-2013 |
20130035581 | AUGMENTED REALITY ENHANCED TRIAGE SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES - An example system includes a virtual emergency medical record (vEMR) to be dynamically generated for a patient encountered by emergency medical services personnel, the vEMR created to store and organize patient information obtained from the patient at an emergency site to be transferred to an electronic medical record for the patient at a healthcare facility. The example system includes an image recognition and search service to identify the patient based on one or more obtained images and to provide information to the vEMR. The example system includes a prior history service to search for prior clinical information for the patient and to provide information to the vEMR. The example system includes triage decision support to process patient information and prior clinical information via the vEMR to provide a) at least one of a treatment guideline and a diagnosis protocol and b) an instruction for transfer priority to a healthcare facility. | 02-07-2013 |
20130041246 | LIGHT AND ULTRASOUND WHOLE BODY SCANNER - The light and ultrasound whole body scanner produces an image of a patient's skin (visible light) and subcutaneous tissues (ultrasound). The scanner includes a turntable on which the patient stands during the scanning process. A computer operates the system and produces reports for later review. The report includes changes noted from previous scans. The report can be sent over the Internet, mailed or faxed to remote locations. | 02-14-2013 |
20130041247 | OPTOACOUSTIC / PHOTOACOUSTIC / ACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEM USING PROBE BEAM DEFLECTION - Embodiments of the invention are directed to a non-contact optical method using a probe beam deflection technique (PBDT) to detecting acoustic waves transiting an acoustic coupling medium. | 02-14-2013 |
20130046167 | Systems and Methods for Identifying Vascular Borders - A method comprises gathering intravascular photoacoustic (IVPA) data using a transducer inserted into a vessel of a patient. The method further includes modulating the IVPA data to determine a first tissue border and displaying a border map representing the first tissue border. | 02-21-2013 |
20130053676 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REDUCING PATIENT MOTION DURING MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING - A medical imaging system includes a gantry having a bore extending therethrough, a bore cover disposed within the bore, and an element disposed on the bore cover, the element being viewable by a patient positioned within the bore to reduce patient motion. A method of imaging a patient is also described herein. | 02-28-2013 |
20130053677 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WOUND CARE MANAGEMENT BASED ON A THREE DIMENSIONAL IMAGE OF A FOOT - Disclosed is a system for wound care management of the diabetic foot. In an embodiment, the system uses a scanner configured to obtain a two-dimensional image of the plantar surface of the foot. This system also includes a wound measurement tool to measure the diameter and volume of the diabetic ulcer. Additionally, this system includes an image processor that converts a two-dimensional image of the diabetic ulcer into a three-dimensional map. The system also includes a measurement calculator, using the three-dimensional map, that accurately measures the diameter and volume of each ulcer on the plantar of the foot. All scans are stored indefinitely and can be compared in a side-by-side setting, at the same time analyzing and comparing progress of the ulcer treatment in a wireframe mode. Other embodiments are also disclosed. | 02-28-2013 |
20130060121 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ULTRASOUND BASED AUTOMATED DETECTION, QUANTIFICATION AND TRACKING OF PATHOLOGIES - An automated method for detecting a disease state is presented. The method includes identifying a bone surface in one or more image data sets, wherein the one or more data sets correspond to a region of interest in an object of interest. Furthermore, the method includes segmenting a joint capsule region corresponding to the one or more image data sets based on a corresponding identified bone surface. In addition, the method includes analyzing the segmented joint capsule region to identify the disease state. Systems and non-transitory computer readable medium configured to perform the automated method for detecting a disease state are also presented. | 03-07-2013 |
20130060122 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IN VIVO FLOW CYTOMETRY USING THE DETECTION OF PHOTOACOUSTIC WAVES - A photoacoustic flow cytometry (PAFC) device for the in vivo detection of cells circulating in blood or lymphatic vessels is described. Ultrasound transducers attached to the skin of an organism detect the photoacoustic ultrasound waves emitted by target objects in response to their illumination by at least one pulse of laser energy delivered using at least one wavelength. The wavelengths of the laser light pulse may be varied to optimize the absorption of the laser energy by the target object. Target objects detected by the device may be unlabelled biological cells or cell products, contrast agents, or biological cells labeled with one or more contrast agents. | 03-07-2013 |
20130060123 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING BREAST VOLUME TO ASSIST MEDICAL PROCEDURE - Various systems, methods, techniques and/or modules are provided to allow for the automated analysis of the 3-D representation of the upper front torso (i) to recognize 3-D anatomical features, (ii) to orient the subject with reference to their anatomy or a display, (iii) to determine dimensional analysis including direct point-to-point lines, 3-D surface lines, and volume values, (iv) to simulate the outcome with the addition of breast implants including breast and nipple positioning, (v) to assist in the selection of the breast implants, and/or (vi) to assist in the planning of breast surgery. The automated analysis is based on the analysis of changes in a 3-D contour map of the upper torso, orientation analysis of 3-D features and planes, color analysis of 3-D features, and/or dimensional analysis of 3-D features and positions of the upper torso. | 03-07-2013 |
20130060124 | APPARATUS FOR USE IN DIAGNOSING AND/OR TREATING NEUROLOGICAL DISORDER - An apparatus ( | 03-07-2013 |
20130066187 | Housing Unit and a Medical Imaging Device Comprising a Housing Unit - A housing unit for medical imaging devices is proposed. The housing unit has at least two housing shell units and a support frame unit for the purpose of mounting the at least two housing shell units. The at least two housing shell units in each case has at least one overlapping element. An overlap between the at least two housing shell units can be achieved in a region of the overlapping elements when the at least two housing shell units are in an assembled position on the support frame unit. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066188 | IMAGE DISPLAY OF A CENTERLINE OF TUBULAR STRUCTURE - Systems and methods for determining a centerline of a tubular structure from volumetric data of vessels where a contrast agent was injected into the blood stream to enhance the imagery for centerlining. Given a 3D array of scalar values and a first and second point, the system and methods iteratively find a path from the start position to the end position that lies in the center of a tubular structure. A user interface may be provided to visually present and manipulate a centerline of the tubular structure and the tubular structure itself. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066189 | NORMATIVE DATASET FOR NEUROPSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS - A system and method for identifying an abnormality of an anatomical structure. The system and method segments, using a processor, the anatomical structure imaged in a volumetric image of a plurality of control patients to produce a control segmentation of the anatomical structures of each of the control patients, obtains a normative dataset by extracting a statistical representation of a morphology of the control segmentations, segments the anatomical structure of a patient being analyzed for abnormalities to produce a patient segmentation and compares the patient segmentation to the normative dataset obtained from the control segmentations. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066190 | METHOD AND COMPOSITION FOR HYPERTHERMALLY TREATING CELLS - A method and composition for hyperthermally treating tumor cells in a patient under conditions that affect tumor stem cells and tumor cells. In one embodiment, the method is administered in combination with localized internal ionizing radiation therapy. | 03-14-2013 |
20130072779 | Reporting imaged portions of a patient's body part - Described embodiments include a system, method, and computer program product. In a described system, a receiver circuit receives at least two reference images of a patient body part. Each reference image includes a respective landmark subsurface feature of the patient body part, and each imaged landmark subsurface feature has a respective spatial relationship to a respective region of a surface of the patient body part imaged during a medical examination. A feature matching circuit determines a correspondence between (x) each atlas landmark subsurface feature of the patient body part included in a landmark subsurface feature atlas and (y) each respective imaged landmark subsurface feature. A reporting circuit generates informational data reporting a depiction of an area of the surface of the patient body part by at least two adjacent imaged regions of the surface of the patient body part. A communication circuit outputs the informational data. | 03-21-2013 |
20130079620 | METHOD FOR PROCESSING AN ENDOSCOPY IMAGE - In a method for processing a generated digital endoscopy image of a patient, those pixels that depict a body region of a patient are determined as image points in the endoscopy image, in a processor. In the processor, a color value is derived for image point using the value of the associated pixel, and an area portion associated with each image point is derived for the color value. A color area is derived for each color value, as the sum of all area portions of the image points having that color value. An evaluation measure of the endoscopy image is then implemented in the processor using the respective color areas. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079621 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF OPERATING A MULTI FOCUSED ACOUSTIC WAVE SOURCE - A method of operating a multi focused acoustic wave source. The method comprises providing the multi focused acoustic wave source, providing a plurality of target acoustic pressures to be applied on a plurality of regions of interest (ROIs) in at least one cellular tissue, computing a transmission pattern of multi-focal acoustic energy according to the plurality of target acoustic pressures, and operating the multi focused acoustic wave source according to the transmission pattern. | 03-28-2013 |
20130085371 | ACOUSTIC WAVE ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention provides an acoustic wave acquiring apparatus including: a holding plate configured to hold an object via acoustic matching agent; an acoustic wave detector configured to receive an acoustic wave generated from the object irradiated with light from a light source and convert the acoustic wave to an electric signal; and a processor configured to generate characteristic information of the inside of the object by using the electric signal. In the acoustic wave acquiring apparatus, the holding plate is subjected to hydrophilic process or the acoustic matching agent contains surfactant. | 04-04-2013 |
20130085372 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION DEVICE - A subject information acquisition device includes a first holding member that holds a subject of a patient, a first probe that detects an acoustic wave having propagated through the first holding member and that performs a scanning operation, a first holding-member support located on a patient side from a scanning range of the first probe and that reduces bending of the first holding member, and a second probe located on the patient side from the scanning range of the first probe. | 04-04-2013 |
20130090544 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS BILATERAL TREATMENT OF TARGET TISSUES WITHIN THE EARS USING A GUIDE BLOCK STRUCTURE - Systems and methods for treating a patient having a head with a first ear and a second car, function by mounting a support structure to the head of the patient; aligning the support structure with a target tissue in an ear canal of the first ear; stabilizing the support structure relative to the target tissue by injecting a material into the canal and hardening the material; and actuating a device while the device is supported by the support system so that the device therapeutically remodels the target tissue of the first ear. | 04-11-2013 |
20130096413 | OPTICAL ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER - In general, this disclosure describes various optical ultrasound transducers and methods of producing such. As one example, an optical ultrasound transducer comprises an optical fiber and a polymer layer formed on the optical fiber to receive light from the optical fiber. The polymer layer may absorb light of a first wavelength and be substantially transparent to light of a second wavelength. In response to the light of the first wavelength, the polymer layer may generate an acoustic tone. The optical ultrasound transducer may further include an optical detector formed on the polymer layer, the optical detector comprising an etalon structure having a first mirror layer and a second mirror layer separated by a compressible layer, wherein the compressible layer resonates in response to the light of the second wavelength passing through the polymer layer and is compressible in response to acoustic pressure from echoes of the acoustic tone. | 04-18-2013 |
20130102875 | LOW-COST DEVICE FOR C-SCAN PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING - The prostate gland or other region of interest is stimulated with laser light, resulting in ultrasound waves (photoacoustic effect) which are focused by an acoustic lens and captured by a specific 1- or 2D sensor array and subsequently displayed as a C-scan on a computer screen. The amplitude of the ultrasound waves generated by laser stimulation is proportional to the optical absorption of the tissue element at that spatial location. Variability in tissue absorption results in C-scan image contrast. The photoacoustic imaging is combined with an ultrasound C-scan image produced with a plane ultrasound wave applied to the region of interest. | 04-25-2013 |
20130109947 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTINUOUS NON-INVASIVE BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT USING PHOTOACOUSTICS | 05-02-2013 |
20130109948 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS USING TWO PHOTOACOUSTIC PEAKS | 05-02-2013 |
20130109949 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC SIGNAL PROCESSING | 05-02-2013 |
20130109950 | HANDHELD OPTOACOUSTIC PROBE | 05-02-2013 |
20130109951 | System for Screening the Skin Condition of the Plantar Surface of the Feet | 05-02-2013 |
20130109952 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS | 05-02-2013 |
20130109953 | Marking System for Computer-Aided Detection of Breast Abnormalities | 05-02-2013 |
20130116535 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING A LESION - An apparatus and method for diagnosing a lesion are provided. The apparatus includes an acquisition unit configured to acquire first blood-vessel information regarding a blood vessel from an image including the blood vessel, and an extraction unit configured to extract one or more tissue regions from the image based on the first blood-vessel information. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116536 | ACOUSTIC WAVE ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND ACOUSTIC WAVE ACQUIRING METHOD - Provided is an acoustic wave acquiring apparatus including: a probe configured to measuring acoustic waves that propagate from an object; scanning unit configured to moving the probe; region designating unit configured to receiving designation of a plurality of regions of interest in the object; and track determining unit configured to determining a plurality of designated measuring regions as regions for which the probe is to measure acoustic waves based on positions of the plurality of regions of interest, and determining a track upon moving the probe by the scanning unit based on positions of the plurality of designated measuring regions. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116537 | ACOUSTIC WAVE MEASURING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD OF ACOUSTIC WAVE MEASURING APPARATUS - Provided is an acoustic wave measuring apparatus including: an acoustic probe; region-of-interest setting unit for setting two or more regions of interest for an object; priority setting unit for setting priorities on the regions of interest; region calculating unit for determining, for each of the set priorities, an inclusion region including the regions of interest set with the priority; scanning method determining unit for assigning a scanning stripe to each of the inclusion regions so as to include all regions of interest included in the inclusion region; scanning path identifying unit for determining a scanning order of a plurality of scanning stripes having a same priority so as to shorten a movement distance of the acoustic probe; and scanning unit for scanning the scanning stripes according to the determined scanning order, based on the priority order, by moving the acoustic probe. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116538 | OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS WITH ENHANCED SAFETY - An optoacoustic system and method for providing enhanced laser safety includes a laser light source, a control and processing system, a laser override, and an array of optoacoustic transducers. The laser light source is capable of generating a laser light pulse upon receiving a laser light source trigger. The control and processing system is configured to generate a laser light source trigger, to receive and process ultrasound data, and to control operation of the optoacoustic system. The control and processing system determines whether received ultrasound data reflects acoustic coupling between the transducer array and the volume. The laser override is configured to automatically prevent the generation of a laser light pulse if received ultrasound data does not reflect acoustic coupling between the optoacoustic transducer array and the volume. | 05-09-2013 |
20130116539 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus including: a probe for receiving the acoustic waves; a holding member for holding the object; scanning unit for moving the probe in a first direction and a second direction; region designating unit for receiving information on a designated region which is a region for acquiring the characteristic information; and information processing unit for at least determining a scanning track in a scanning region to be scanned, wherein, of the scanning track in the scanning region when the first direction is used as a main scanning direction as a direction in which the probe moves while receiving the acoustic waves, and the scanning track when the second direction is used as the main scanning direction, the information processing unit uses the scanning track, in which scanning can be implemented in a shorter period of time. | 05-09-2013 |
20130123602 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATICALLY POSITIONING A STRUCTURE WITHIN A FIELD OF VIEW - A method for positioning an organ of interest within a field of view of an imaging detector includes positioning an organ of interest at an initial imaging position, performing automatic organ detection to determine a position of the organ, determining a revised imaging position of a detector or a table based on the position of the organ, prompting a user to accept the revised imaging position, and automatically repositioning at least one of the detector or the table to the revised imaging position based on a user input in response to the prompting. A patient positioning module and a medical imaging system are also described herein. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123603 | MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING MEDICAL IMAGE USING THE SAME - Disclosed is a medical device which displays an object relating to an image considered to include an indication relating to a pathological entity, such as, for example, a lesion, on a terminal on which a medical image is displayed, and a method for displaying a medical image by using the same. The medical device includes a display device, a communication device which communicates with an external device, and a controller which displays an image which includes the indication relating to a pathological entity on the display device when the communication device receives image information relating to a subject. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123604 | PHOTOACOUSTIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic diagnostic apparatus having: a light source; a probe which receives an acoustic wave generated when light is irradiated onto an object from a light source and which converts the acoustic wave into an electrical signal; a memory unit which records the electrical signal; and a memory control unit which controls whether or not to cause the memory unit to record the electrical signal, wherein the memory control unit controls the memory unit on the basis of a timing at which the probe receives an acoustic wave generated from a portion other than a light absorbing material inside an object. | 05-16-2013 |
20130131486 | COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR SPINE MOBILITY SIMULATION AND SPINE SIMULATION METHOD - A computer program for spine mobility simulation is configured, if running on a computer, to cause the computer to perform the following steps: a) accessing bio-metric data which relate to the spine of a patient, the spine having at least one compromised spine segment; b) displaying a model of the spine of the patient comprising a plurality of vertebrae; c) enabling a user to change the position of at least one of the vertebrae of the spine model; d) computing the effects of the position change on the remaining vertebrae; e) displaying the spine model in a new configuration, thereby taking into account the position changed by the user in step c) and the position changes of the remaining vertebrae computed in step d). | 05-23-2013 |
20130131487 | TEST OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - An information acquisition apparatus configured to receive an elastic wave propagating through a test object to acquire characteristic information about the test object includes a receiver including an element configured to receive the elastic wave and to convert the received elastic wave into an electric signal, a time designation unit configured to designate a time required to acquire the characteristic information about the test object, a control unit configured to acquire area information about an area where the characteristic information about the test object is to be acquired based on the time and configured to cause a presentation unit to present the area information, and a scanning unit configured to cause the receiver to scan the test object based on the area information. | 05-23-2013 |
20130137959 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING USING INDICATOR DILUTION - A patient monitoring system may provide photoacoustic sensing based on an indicator dilution to determine one or more physiological parameters of a subject. The system may detect an acoustic pressure signal, which may include one or more thermo-dilution responses, one or more hemo-dilution responses, or a combination thereof, using one or more sensor units. The system may use multiple light sources and/or detectors to diagnose and/or improve signal to noise ratio, distinguish between arterial and venous signals, prevent under-sampling, and separate the effects of hemo-dilution and thermo-dilution. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137960 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING USING INDICATOR DILUTION - A patient monitoring system may provide photoacoustic sensing based on an indicator dilution to determine one or more physiological parameters of a subject. The system may detect an acoustic pressure signal, which may include one or more thermo-dilution responses, one or more hemo-dilution responses, or a combination thereof, using one or more sensor units. The system may use multiple light sources and/or detectors to diagnose and/or improve signal to noise ratio, distinguish between arterial and venous signals, prevent under-sampling, and separate the effects of hemo-dilution and thermo-dilution. | 05-30-2013 |
20130137961 | Systems and Methods for Hyperspectral Medical Imaging - Under one aspect, an apparatus for analyzing the skin of a subject includes a hyperspectral sensor for obtaining a hyperspectral image of the subject. The apparatus further includes a control computer that is in electronic communication with the hyperspectral sensor and which controls at least one operating parameter of the hyperspectral sensor. The control computer includes a processor unit and a computer readable memory. The memory includes executable instructions for controlling the at least one operating parameter of the hyperspectral sensor. The memory includes executable instructions for applying a wavelength dependent spectral calibration standard constructed for the hyperspectral sensor to a hyperspectral image collected by the hyperspectral sensor. The apparatus further includes a light source that illuminates the skin of the subject for the hyperspectral sensor. | 05-30-2013 |
20130144147 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING USING INDICATOR DILUTION - A patient monitoring system may provide photoacoustic sensing based on an indicator dilution to determine one or more physiological parameters of a subject. The system may detect an acoustic pressure signal, which may include one or more thermo-dilution responses, one or more hemo-dilution responses, or a combination thereof. For example, a thermo-dilution indicator and/or a hemo-dilution indicator may be used to determine one or more hemodynamic parameters. In a further example, an isotonic indicator and a hypertonic indicator may be used to determine one or more hemodynamic parameters of the subject. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144148 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING USING INDICATOR DILUTION - A patient monitoring system may provide photoacoustic sensing based on an indicator dilution to determine one or more physiological parameters of a subject. The system may detect an acoustic pressure signal, which may include one or more thermo-dilution responses, one or more hemo-dilution responses, or a combination thereof. For example, a thermo-dilution indicator and/or a hemo-dilution indicator may be used to determine one or more hemodynamic parameters. In a further example, an isotonic indicator and a hypertonic indicator may be used to determine one or more hemodynamic parameters of the subject. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144149 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS, PHOTOACOUSTIC SENSING STRUCTURE, AND METHOD OF CAPTURING PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus for detecting a photoacoustic image of an object, a photoacoustic sensing structure, and a photoacoustic image capturing method are provided. The photoacoustic imaging apparatus includes an electromagnetic wave source for emitting an electromagnetic wave, a first electromagnetic wave transmissible substrate disposed on a transmission path of the electromagnetic wave, electromagnetic wave transmitting needles disposed on the first electromagnetic wave transmissible substrate, and an ultrasonic sensor disposed at one side of the object. The electromagnetic wave transmitting needles can be inserted into the object. The electromagnetic wave is transmitted to at least a part of the electromagnetic wave transmitting needles through the first electromagnetic wave transmissible substrate and to the inside of the object through at least the part of the electromagnetic wave transmitting needles. The inside of the object generates an ultrasonic wave in response to the electromagnetic wave. The ultrasonic sensor detects the ultrasonic wave. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144150 | ULTRASOUND IMAGING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF DISPLAYING ULTRASOUND IMAGE - An ultrasound imaging apparatus and ultrasound image display method simultaneously obtain photo-acoustic information and elasticity information of a subject, and generate and display a single image having the photo-acoustic information and the elasticity information, thereby enhancing accuracy and efficiency of a diagnosis. The ultrasound imaging apparatus includes a probe to radiate light when stress is applied and when stress is not applied to the subject, and to receive a corresponding first acoustic wave signal and a second acoustic wave signal, a data acquisition unit to acquire first acoustic wave data and second acoustic wave data that each represent optical absorption rate information about the subject, an elasticity information generating unit to calculate elasticity information about the subject, an image generating unit to generate a single image having both of the optical absorption rate information and the calculated elasticity information, and a display unit to display the generated image. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144151 | System and Method For Determining Modified States of Health of Living Tissue - A phenotypic profiling method for drug/dose physiological response of living bodies utilizes feature recognition to segment the information in time-frequency tissue-response spectrograms to construct N-dimensional feature vectors. The feature vectors are used to generate a correlation matrix among a large number of different stimuli in the form of drugs, doses and conditions. Multi-dimensional scaling is applied to the correlation matrix to form a two-dimensional map of response relationships that retains rank distances from the higher-dimensionality feature matrix. The two-dimensional phenotypic profile space displays compact regions indicative of particular physiological responses, such as regions of enhanced active transport, membrane undulations and blebbing. | 06-06-2013 |
20130150700 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, SERVICES AND CIRCUITS FOR GENERATING RAPID PRELIMINARY REPORTS WITH BONE MINERAL DENSITY MEASUREMENTS AND/OR OSTEOPOROSIS RISK ASSESSMENT - Methods, systems, services (Internet), computer programs and circuits provide rapid bone mineral density (BMD) measurements and/or osteoporosis information using an automated image analysis circuit that evaluates a hand X-ray of a patient from an X-ray device to generate a reliable bone density evaluation within about 15 minutes, typically within about 5 minutes with receipt of a hand X-ray, and more typically substantially instantaneous and under 1 minute. The automated image analysis circuit can reside on a remote preliminary review server. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150701 | MULTI-LUMEN THORACIC CATHETER AND USES THEREOF - A multi-lumen catheter for use in a cavity having a main lumen surrounded by a wall, and at least one access lumen positioned in or on the wall, the one access lumen conveys a solution to the cavity and said main lumen. A method for treating or preventing fluid or accumulation in a body cavity including (a) aseptically inserting through an incision at an insertion site the catheter comprising a main drainage lumen surrounded by a wall and the one access lumen positioned in or on the wall, (b) securing the inserted catheter by closing the incision with a suture, (c) infusing a physiological solution through the one access lumen to dilute a drainage fluid, (d) connecting a distal end of a main drainage lumen of the catheter to a suction drainage system, and (e) applying a vacuum force to the suction drainage system to remove the diluted drainage fluid. | 06-13-2013 |
20130158382 | Medical Treatment System With Non-Coplanar Capability - Systems and methods for delivering coplanar and non-coplanar medical treatments are described in which a rotating member is engaged with an angularly displaced treatment ring including at least one treatment device, whereby rotation of the rotating member and the treatment ring or treatment device combine to allow non-coplanar therapy to be delivered to a patient. | 06-20-2013 |
20130158383 | BOND-SELECTIVE VIBRATIONAL PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD - An imaging system, including a radiation source configured to output a signal that can non-invasively and selectively cause overtone excitation of molecules based on a predetermined chemical bond, and an ultrasound detector configured to non-invasively detect an acoustic signal generated by vibrational energy caused by the selective overtone excitation of the molecules and further configured to convert the acoustic signal into an image. | 06-20-2013 |
20130165764 | PERCUTANEOUS DEVICES AND METHODS TO VISUALIZE, TARGET AND ABLATE NERVES - Apparatuses for identifying nerve tissue and methods for making and using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus may include an elongate shaft having a distal region configured to be percutaneously deployed within a patient. An active imaging structure may be disposed on the distal region. The active imaging structure may be configured to remotely image nerve tissue by exciting a signal in nerve tissue from a percutaneous location and receiving the signal from a percutaneous location. The active imaging structure may include one or more probes. | 06-27-2013 |
20130165765 | PROPERTY INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention employs a property information acquiring apparatus comprising: a supporting unit configured to support a test subject and include an aperture into which a tested part of the test subject is inserted; a holding unit configured to hold the tested part inserted into the aperture; and a pressing unit that includes a receiving unit for receiving information relating to a property of the tested part and is pushed against a surface of the holding unit different from a surface for holding a test object, wherein the supporting unit includes a restricting part that restricts deformation caused in the holding unit by the pressing of the pressing unit. | 06-27-2013 |
20130172726 | IN-VIVO VISUALIZATION SYSTEMS - In vivo visualization systems are described which facilitate tissue treatment by a user in utilizing real time visualized tissue images with generated three-dimensional models of the tissue region of interest, such as the left atrial chamber of a subject's heart. Directional indicators on the visualized tissue as well as the imaging systems may be utilized while other variations may utilize image rotation or manipulation of visualized tissue regions to facilitate catheter control. Moreover, visualized tissue regions may be combined with imaged tissue regions as well as navigational information to further facilitate tissue treatments. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172727 | Intelligent Atlas for Automatic Image Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Imaging - A non-invasive imaging system, including an imaging scanner suitable to generate an imaging signal from a tissue region of a subject under observation, the tissue region having at least one substructure; a signal processing system in communication with the imaging scanner to receive the imaging signal from the imaging scanner; and a data storage unit in communication with the signal processing system, wherein the data storage unit stores an anatomical atlas comprising data encoding spatial information of the at least one substructure in the tissue region, and a pathological atlas corresponding to an abnormality of the tissue region, wherein the signal processing system is adapted to automatically identify, using the imaging signal, the anatomical atlas, and the pathological atlas, a presence of the abnormality or a precursor abnormality in the subject under observation. | 07-04-2013 |
20130178729 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY-INVASIVE OPTICAL-ACOUSTIC IMAGING - An imaging guidewire can include one or more optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) directs light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound is sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal is optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed to develop a 2D or 3D image. In one example, the guidewire outer diameter is small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. Techniques for improving ultrasound reception include using a high compliance material, resonating the ultrasound sensing transducer, using an attenuation-reducing coating and/or thickness, and/or using optical wavelength discrimination. Techniques for improving the ultrasound generating transducer include using a blazed FBG, designing the photoacoustic material thickness to enhance optical absorption. Techniques for distinguishing plaque or vulnerable plaque may be used to enhance the displayed image. | 07-11-2013 |
20130184555 | ORAL CAVITY MOUNTED PHOTOACOUSTIC SENSING UNIT - An oral cavity mounted photoacoustic sensing unit is disclosed. The sensing unit may include a light source, a photoacoustic detector, and a support assembly. The support assembly may be configured such that the light source and the photoacoustic detector are fixably located relative to the buccal or sublingual tissue of a subject. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184556 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING THE BONE MINERAL DENSITY TO ASSES BONE FRACTURES RISK - The present invention relates to a method for estimating the Bone Mineral Density (BMD) using image data collected in emergency situation, i.e. without following specific protocols. In particular, the invention discloses a method for assessing the risk of bone fractures using as one indicator a BMD of one or more bones. The BMD is calculated using a universal constant which provides a value of BMD having a certain error in respect to its true value. However this error does not substantially affect the assessment of the risk of fracture of one or more bones. | 07-18-2013 |
20130184557 | MEDICAL FINDING SYSTEM WITH CONTROL MODULE FOR IMAGE ACQUISITION - In a finding system, a control system and a computer-implemented method to assess medical images, within the scope of a finding workflow a control module can be activated via which the user can enter control data at the finding system. The control data are automatically converted into control commands, which are transmitted to the acquisition system for execution. The acquisition system is expanded by an expansion module in order to transmit process data and status data to the finding system. | 07-18-2013 |
20130190589 | MULTIPLE PEAK ANALYSIS IN A PHOTOACOUSTIC SYSTEM - A physiological monitoring system may use photoacoustic sensing to determine one or more physiological parameters of a subject. A photoacoustic signal generated in response to a photonic signal may include multiple peaks as a result of multiple blood vessels and other structures below the surface of the skin of a subject. A photoacoustic system may identify a first and second peak in the photoacoustic signal and determine values from the peaks indicative of physiological parameters. Physiological parameters, such as venous oxygen saturation and arterial oxygen saturation, may be determined based on the values. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190590 | METHOD FOR ESTIMATING RADIATION EXPOSURE OF A PATIENT AND RADIATION EXPOSURE MONITORING SYSTEM THEREOF - A method for estimating radiation exposure of a patient arising from at least one medical image study of that patient is described. The method comprises obtaining radiation exposure information relating to a plurality of procedures for which there exists a potential exposure of the patient to radiation, performing anatomical alignment of the obtained radiation exposure information to at least one reference image, estimating a radiation dose per procedure, and calculating an aggregated radiation dose based at least partly on the estimated radiation doses. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190591 | PHOTOACOUSTIC TRANSDUCER AND IMAGING SYSTEM - The invention disclosed herein features a photoacoustic scan head that includes laser fibers integrated into the housing of an arrayed ultrasound transducer using an optically transparent epoxy or other resin. The light-emitting ends of the fibers are positioned adjacent to the front surface of the transducer and direct laser light onto a subject being scanned by the transducer. The light beams generated by the fibers may be angled to intersect the acoustic field generated by the transducer so as to generate a photoacoustic effect in the region scanned by the transducer. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190592 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETERMINING THE VOLUME OF EPICARDIAL FAT FROM VOLUMETRIC IMAGES - Methods and systems are provided for determining the volume of epicardial fat of a heart, which include acquiring a plurality of volumetric image data representing the heart; morphologically characterizing a volume of interest represented by the volumetric image data, including identifying a predetermined number of reference contours of the heart; estimating the epicardial surface, Σ, according to a three-dimensional series expansion of vector spherical harmonic functions based on the reference contours; and determining the volume of epicardial fat based on the voxels which are located inside the estimated epicardial surface, Σ, and which have a grey level within a predetermined range, characteristic of fatty tissue. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190593 | IMAGE DIAGNOSIS ASSISTANCE APPARATUS, PROCESSING METHOD THEREOF, AND STORAGE MEDIUM - An image diagnosis assistance apparatus calculates a first characteristic value based on an image feature of an image that is a diagnosis target, acquires a second characteristic value based on the findings information of the image input by a user via an operation unit, and performs diagnostic inference for a predetermined region of the image based on the first characteristic value, the second characteristic value, and the reliability of inference of the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190594 | Scanning Optoacoustic Imaging System with High Resolution and Improved Signal Collection Efficiency - Provided herein are scanning, high-resolution optoacoustic imaging systems or microscopes. Generally, the system/microscope comprises subsystems for scanning a tissue or object therein with a wavelength of electromagnetic energy, such as optical energy, collecting and detecting ultrasonic waves produced when the tissue or object absorbs the incident wavelength and converting the same to an electrical signal, and for processing, analyzing and displaying the electrical signal as a digital image. Specifically, the system/microscope utilizes an off-axis parabolic reflector with a high numerical aperture value for deep tissue visualization. Also, provided is a method for collecting volumetric image data voxel-by-voxel within a subject utilizing the imaging system or microscope. A series of voxels within the scanned tissue produces detectable ultrasonic waves that are collected by the off-axis parabolic reflector and processed as described as a high-resolution image of the tissue or object therein. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190595 | Laser Optoacoustic Ultrasonic Imaging System (LOUIS) and Methods of Use - Provided herein are the systems, methods, components for a three-dimensional tomography system. The system is a dual-modality imaging system incorporates a laser ultrasonic system and a laser optoacoustic system. The dual-modality imaging system has means for generate tomographic images of a volume of interest in a subject body based on speed of sound, ultrasound attenuation and/or ultrasound backscattering and for generating optoacoustic tomographic images of distribution of the optical absorption coefficient in the subject body based on absorbed optical energy density or various quantitative parameters derivable therefrom. Also provided is a method for increasing contrast, resolution and accuracy of quantitative information obtained within a subject utilizing the dual-modality imaging system. The method comprises producing an image of an outline boundary of a volume of interest and generating spatially or temporally coregistered images based on speed of sound and/or ultrasonic attenuation and on absorbed optical energy within the outlined volume. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190596 | Dynamic Optoacoustic Angiography of Peripheral Vasculature - Provided herein are systems and methods for dynamic optoacoustic imaging of the peripheral vasculature. The system generally comprises a short pulse laser, a fiberoptic laser light delivery system, and imaging module, a scanning system, and electronics/computer system for system control and three-dimensional and two-dimensional optoacoustic image visualization. A method is provided for optoacoustic imaging of an appendage using the dynamic optoacoustic imaging system where an appendage of a subject is imaged under conditions of normal, maximum and minimum tolerable temperatures and displaying differential anatomical images of peripheral vasculature in the appendage and functional diagnostic parameters as a function of time and temperature. From this data medical conditions of the appendage may be diagnosed. | 07-25-2013 |
20130197342 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus including a plurality of light irradiators irradiating light from a light source to an object; an intensity modulator modulating intensity of the irradiated light for each light irradiator; a plurality of acoustic detectors detecting an acoustic wave generated from the object; and an information processor producing internal characteristic information of the object by using the acoustic wave, wherein the information processor controls a weight of each acoustic detector in production of the characteristic information, based on the intensity of light in each light irradiator. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197343 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING INFORMATION REGARDING SUBJECT - A subject information obtaining apparatus sets certain sensitive regions corresponding to a plurality of acoustic wave detection elements on the basis of a sensitivity distribution of the plurality of acoustic wave detection elements, obtains initial sound pressure in a region of interest without using a detection signal corresponding to the region of interest obtained by an acoustic wave detection element whose certain sensitive region does not include the region of interest, obtains a value of integrated light intensity in the region of interest on the basis of the obtained initial sound pressure, and obtains an optical characteristic value in the region of interest using the obtained initial sound pressure and the value of the integrated light intensity. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197344 | PHOTO-ACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY - The present invention relates to a photo-acoustic tomography that can acquire a functional image for an inner part of a living body through generation of a local ultrasonic wave generated by energy that is introduced from a laser light source, and to a photo-acoustic tomography using a semiconductor laser and an optical fiber power amplifying device in order to increase resolution and an image acquisition time of an image, a photo-acoustic tomography that can acquire a high-sensitive image even in a place where a penetration depth is large through energy modulation, and a high-sensitive high-speed photo-acoustic tomography that can acquire a high-speed image by placing an array-type laser light source. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197345 | ULTRASONIC PROBE AND INSPECTION APPARATUS EQUIPPED WITH THE ULTRASONIC PROBE - An ultrasonic probe includes a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber, an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves to an electric signal, and a light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion. A light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion. | 08-01-2013 |
20130204111 | Wireless Pressure Wire System with Integrated Power - A sensor wire system with an integrated power source and wireless transmission is provided. A sensor wire includes a distal end that is inserted into a blood vessel of a patient's body. A sensor that is mounted at the distal end of the sensor wire and an electronics unit of the distal end of the sensor wire transmit information generated by the sensor to a receiver unit outside of the patient's body wirelessly. The system further includes a power source, which in one example is mounted to the distal end of the sensor wire, that supplies power to the electronics unit. Preferably the wire body functions as an antenna for the wireless broadcasting. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204112 | PERFUSION ASSESSMENT USING TRANSMISSION LASER SPECKLE IMAGING - Methods and apparatus for measuring perfusion using transmission laser speckle imaging are provided. The apparatus comprises a coherent light source and a detector configured to measure transmitted light associated with an unfocused image at one or more locations. The coherent light source and detector are positioned in a transmission geometry. The apparatus further comprises means for securing the coherent light source and the detector to the tissue sample in a fixed transmission geometry relative to the tissue sample. The apparatus may further comprise at least one processor to receive information from the detector and process detected variations in transmitted light intensity to determine a single metric of perfusion. The method may comprise the steps transilluminating a tissue sample with coherent light, recording spatial and/or temporal variations in the transmitted light signal, determining speckle contrast value(s), and computing a metric of perfusion. | 08-08-2013 |
20130204113 | MULTI-MODALITY COMPACT BORE IMAGING SYSTEM - A multi-modality imaging system ( | 08-08-2013 |
20130211227 | Method and System for Differential Diagnosis of Chronic Schizophrenia and Chronic Alcoholism - Biomarker diagnosis of chronic schizophrenia in the presence of cognitive impairment is confirmed when Phosphocreatine (PCr) levels are increased, compared to normal levels, in both the left and right prefrontal cortices of the brain, with increased PCr specifically also in the left basal ganglia and also reduced NA/Cr | 08-15-2013 |
20130217994 | METHOD OF GENERATING ELASTICITY DATA, ELASTICITY DATA GENERATING APPARATUS, AND ELASTICITY IMAGE GENERATING SYSTEM BASED THEREON - A method of generating elasticity data, an elasticity generating apparatus, and an elasticity image generating system based thereon is provided. The method of generating elasticity data includes receiving first elasticity data of a region of interest (ROI) in a subject, the first elasticity data indicating elasticity corresponding to a predetermined degree of deformation, receiving second elasticity data of a local region of the ROI in the subject, the second elasticity data indicating elasticity corresponding to a local degree of deformation that is greater than the predetermined degree of deformation, and generating third elasticity data of the ROI in the subject based on the received first elasticity data and second elasticity data, the third elasticity data indicating elasticity corresponding to a global degree of deformation that is greater than the predetermined degree of deformation. | 08-22-2013 |
20130217995 | Photoacoustic Tomography of Breast Tissue Using Hemispherical Array and Planar Scanning - Photoacoustic imaging is enhanced by scanning ( | 08-22-2013 |
20130217996 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING IMAGES - A method of analysis is disclosed. The method comprises: registering a target image to define a plurality of keypoints arranged in sets corresponding to polygons or linear segments in the target image; accessing a database of registered and annotated images, and employing a polygon-wise comparison between the target image and each database image; and using the comparison for projecting annotated locations from the database images into the target image. | 08-22-2013 |
20130225969 | PERSONAL SKIN SCANNER SYSTEM - A personal skin lesion scanner system that can facilitate early detection of changes in the appearance of a user's skin is described. The system includes a handheld device for home use, to record images of a user's skin, and software for analyzing the images. The system can automatically detect changes in the user's skin, such as changes in the size, shape, or color of a skin lesion, and alert the user if any changes are detected. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225970 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A subject information acquiring apparatus of the present invention includes a subject-holding member which holds a subject and a probe unit having a transducer which receives acoustic waves from the subject through the subject-holding member, a housing which accommodates the transducer, and a matching liquid-holding member configured to hold a matching liquid between the transducer and the subject-holding member, the probe unit being allowed to move relative to the subject-holding member. The probe unit has a guide which introduces the matching liquid to the subject-holding member, the matching liquid having been spilled from a space defined by the matching liquid-holding member, the transducer, and the subject-holding member onto the upper surface of the hosing and then flowed from the upper surface of the housing. | 08-29-2013 |
20130225971 | PHOTOTHERAPY APPARATUS - The invention provides a phototherapy apparatus that allows confirmation that the therapeutic light has been irradiated on the appropriate site for treatment and as a result, is able to perform appropriate treatment. This phototherapy apparatus is provided with a photoirradiation part configured of a transparent material with a first surface whereon the site to be treated is placed and a second surface that is back to back with the first surface; a light source that outputs the therapeutic light and shines the therapeutic light into the photoirradiation part; and a photographing part with sensitivity in the wavelength region of the therapeutic light. The photographing part is configured to photograph the second surface. | 08-29-2013 |
20130231548 | DEFORMABLE REGISTRATION FOR TISSUE ANALYTICS - A tissue analysis system is disclosed. Tissue analysis systems include sensors that acquire signals originating from a target tissue and representative of a tissue property. A signal converter converts the signals to property measurements. An analysis engine can derive a variation of one tissue property with respect to another property and present the variation within a deformable registration imaging devices. | 09-05-2013 |
20130231549 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus that includes a light source, a holding plate configured to hold an object, a supporting unit configured to support the holding plate, and a probe configured to receive, via the holding plate, an acoustic wave generated from the object on which light is irradiated from the light source. A light reflecting member is provided between the supporting unit and the holding plate. | 09-05-2013 |
20130231550 | Implantable Radio-Frequency Sensor - Diagnostic apparatus ( | 09-05-2013 |
20130237796 | SUPPORTS FOR COMPONENTS IN CATHETERS - A medical device includes an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, a body extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a lumen located within the body. The medical device also includes a tube located inside the lumen, wherein the tube is rotatably supported inside the lumen, a optical waveguide located inside the tube, and a bearing element located in the lumen and disposed between the tube and the body of the elongate member. The elongate member further has a side wall and a region at the side wall for allowing an output light from the optical waveguide to exit therethrough. | 09-12-2013 |
20130237797 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING A BIOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL AND/OR PHYSICAL PARAMETER IN A LIVING BIOLOGICAL TISSUE - The invention relates to a device for determining biological, chemical and/or physical parameters in living biological tissue, comprising an energy supply unit, a laser operating unit with at least one laser source directed at the biological tissue, at least one sensor unit for detecting the light scattered back and/or absorbed by the biological tissue, a control unit, a storing and processing unit and an interface for an external data processing unit. The method according to the invention includes execution of a calibrating phase for ascertaining a reference set (R) of reference vectors (Ri), in each case involving independently ascertaining a parameter (BZi), radiating unpolarized laser light onto the biological tissue and registering a measured value vector (Mi) from a series of optical measured variables and executing an interpolation phase for ascertaining an interpolation set (I) of interpolation vectors (Ik), in each case involving radiating unpolarized laser light onto the biological tissue and registering a measured value vector (Mk) from a back-scattered light intensity with a subsequent determination of an interpolated parameter (BKk) from the reference set (R). | 09-12-2013 |
20130237798 | METHOD OF PROCESSING THORACIC REFLECTED RADIO INTERROGATION SIGNALS - A method of evaluating or monitoring the medical state of a human subject on the subject includes the steps of: positioning an antenna side of a self-contained radio apparatus for non-invasive, thoracic radio interrogation of a human subject proximally to the heart of the human subject; providing a radio frequency interrogation interference signal from the human subject, the radio frequency interrogation interference signal being low frequency components of reflections of a radio interrogation signal transmitted into the thorax of the subject; and determining with the apparatus on the subject at least at least one stroke volume value of the subject from radio frequency interrogation interference signal generated by the apparatus. | 09-12-2013 |
20130237799 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CALIBRATION DEVICE - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus that receives an acoustic wave generated from an object, on which light is irradiated, and generates property information. The apparatus includes a housing including an aperture into which, when the acoustic wave is received, the object, which is a part of an examinee, is inserted and, when performance evaluation for the apparatus is performed, a calibration device corresponding to a type of the performance evaluation is inserted, the housing being capable of holding the examinee; a holding unit configured to hold the object; a positioning unit configured to specify an attachment position of the calibration device correspondingly to a position specifying member of the calibration device; and a detecting unit configured to detect the type of the performance evaluation performed using the inserted calibration device. | 09-12-2013 |
20130237800 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus that includes a light source, a holding unit configured to hold an object, an acoustic receiving unit configured to receive an acoustic wave generated by irradiating light, which is emitted from the light source, on the object via the holding unit and convert the acoustic wave into an electric signal, a light measuring unit configured to measure the light emitted from the light source, a processing unit configured to calculate a light density distribution in the object based on the light measured by the light measuring unit, and generate property information of the inside of the object on the basis of the light density distribution and the electric signal, and a supporting unit configured to support the holding unit and at least a part of the light measuring unit to be removable independently from each other. | 09-12-2013 |
20130237801 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus that includes a plate configured to hold an object, a probe unit including a probe configured to receive, via the plate, an acoustic wave generated from the object, a tank located below the plate and configured to store matching liquid for acoustically matching the plate and the probe, a supplying unit configured to supply the matching liquid in the tank to a space between the probe unit and the plate, and a generating unit configured to generate property information of an inside of the object on the basis of the acoustic wave. The tank includes an aperture in a portion facing the plate, and the volume of the tank is larger than a sum of the internal volume of the supplying unit and the volume of the space between the plate and the probe unit. | 09-12-2013 |
20130237802 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus is equipped with an extracting section that extracts position data regarding the positions of each of a plurality of peaks in electrical signals that photoacoustic waves have been converted into, and positive/negative data that indicates whether the peaks are positive or negative. An image generating section administers chromatic adjustments to an image region corresponding to a signal region sandwiched between adjacent peaks based on the position data in the case that the positive/negative data for the adjacent peaks are in the order of positive then negative in temporal series, in order to facilitate discrimination of the pair of adjacent peaks and the signal region as being a single tissue system. Thereby, discrimination of a region between two lines is facilitated in photoacoustic imaging, even in cases that the boundary between a comparatively large tissue system and another tissue system is displayed as two lines. | 09-12-2013 |
20130237803 | System and Method for Generating Invasively Hyperpolarized Images - The present invention includes a system and method for generating images of at least one unhyperpolarized portion of a specimen by indirectly hyperpolarizing the at least one portion by irradiating the unhyperpolarized portion by radiation emitted from the de-excitation of excited nuclei of a hyperpolarized substance. The hyperpolarized substance is located in proximity to the specimen. Typically, the images are generated by an MRI/NMR device. | 09-12-2013 |
20130245417 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING AND TREATING DISEASE - A method and system for diagnosing and treating infection or disease, in which an individual takes a photograph of an infected or diseased area of a body using a camera connected to a microprocessor. The photograph is sent to a diagnosing center having a server with a second microprocessor and a database of photographs correlated with different diseases and infections. The second microprocessor scans the image received from the mobile telephone and compares it to the photographs in the database. If a match is found, the second microprocessor then notes the disease or bacteria corresponding to the matching photograph. The second microprocessor then searches the database for a treatment corresponding to the identified disease or bacteria. Once a treatment is identified, information regarding this treatment is automatically sent to the individual's microprocessor. | 09-19-2013 |
20130245418 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING DEVICE, SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM - A subject information obtaining device according to the present disclosure includes: a first optical characteristic value distribution obtaining unit configured to obtain a first optical characteristic value distribution based on a first detection signal obtained by detecting first photoacoustic waves generated by irradiating light in a first measurement state on a subject; a second optical characteristic value distribution obtaining unit configured to obtain a second optical characteristic value distribution based on a second detection signal obtained by detecting second photoacoustic waves generated by irradiating light in a second measurement state different from the first measurement state on the subject; and a data processing unit configured to obtain a similarity distribution based on the first optical characteristic value distribution and the second optical characteristic value distribution. | 09-19-2013 |
20130245419 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING DEVICE, SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM - A subject information obtaining device according to the present disclosure includes: a first image data obtaining unit configured to obtain first image data based on a first detection signal obtained by detecting first photoacoustic waves generated by irradiating light in a first measurement state on a subject; a second image data obtaining unit configured to obtain second image data based on a second detection signal obtained by detecting second photoacoustic waves generated by irradiating light in a second measurement state different from the first measurement state on the subject; and an image data output unit configured to display the first image data and the second image data on the display unit so as to compare the first image data and the second image data at a display unit. | 09-19-2013 |
20130245420 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING DEVICE AND SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - A subject information acquiring device which has: an light absorbing member provided outside a subject; a light source radiating pulsed light on the subject and the light absorbing member; a detector detecting an acoustic wave produced from the subject and the light absorbing member by means of the pulsed light; and a signal processing unit acquiring subject information using a detection signal, and the signal processing unit calculates a second detection signal by specifying a signal resulting from an acoustic wave produced from the light absorbing member in a first detection signal, acquiring impulse response data using the specified signal, and deconvoluting the first detection signal using the impulse response data, and acquires the subject information using the second detection signal, can reduce image deterioration due to probe characteristics even when an impulse response of a probe is not measured in advance in a photoacoustic tomography. | 09-19-2013 |
20130253301 | BLOOD VESSEL SIZING DEVICE - Medical devices and methods for determining the size of blood vessels are disclosed. In an embodiment, a blood vessel sizing device includes a marker configured for placement on the skin of a patient. The marker defines a substantially circular shape and includes a plurality of radiopaque substantially concentric circles. In an embodiment, a blood vessel sizing method includes placing a marker having a plurality of substantially concentric circles on the skin of a patient, imaging a blood vessel of the patient and the marker, and comparing the imaged blood vessel to the imaged circles to determine the blood vessel size. | 09-26-2013 |
20130253302 | Electron Tunneling Putative Energy Field Analyzer - A device and method of detecting and analyzing a vital field places a thin film tunneling barrier in the path of vital waves in the vital field. The vital waves pass through the high resistivity thin film electrodes into the tunneling barrier and interfere with the electron tunneling process in the tunneling barrier. Control circuitry and a pulse generator drive the device at a known sampling frequency. The interference produces a beat frequency that is output from the tunneling barrier. By adjusting the sample rate by a known amount, a second beat frequency is produced and the beat frequency shift is used to determine the input frequency of the vital waves. The vital waves are very weak and produce frequencies into the terahertz range, so that the input frequency is undersampled by the device. A circuit is designed to maintain a reasonable cost using currently available technology. | 09-26-2013 |
20130261424 | System for Inducing Respiration Using Biofeedback Principle - Disclosed herein is a system for processing a biofeedback-treated, respiration-induced signal image using the biofeedback principle, wherein a process for processing the respiration-induced signal image comprises the steps of: (a) acquiring a respiration-induced signal image from a treatment site of a patient in need of radiotherapy treatment using a photographing device; (b) binarizing the acquired image of step (a) using a threshold value; (c) determining whether the binarized image of step (b) is distorted; (d) synthesizing the image; (e) determining whether the synthesized image is required to be separated into regions; and (f) performing pattern matching for the respiration-induced signal image. According to the system, a patient can see and control the patient's own motion at a place where the patient's steady respiration or motion is required, and thus the stability of the patient in a radiotherapy treatment process can be ensured. | 10-03-2013 |
20130261425 | PROBE AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS USING THE SAME - An optical reflection member in a probe has a gas barrier layer for compensating for a high gas transparency of a support layer, thereby avoiding effects of deterioration of adhesion between an optical reflection layer and a support layer due to gas inflow, and reducing exfoliation. The probe includes an element having at least one cell in which is supported a vibration film containing one out two electrodes that define a space therebetween, in a manner allowing the acoustic wave to vibrate the film. An optical reflection layer is provided closer to the object than the element is, a support layer | 10-03-2013 |
20130261426 | PHOTOACOUSTIC INSPECTION PROBE AND PHOTOACOUSTIC INSPECTION APPARATUS - A probe employed in photoacoustic inspection is equipped with: a light emitting section that emits a light beam onto a subject; and an electroacoustic converting section that converts photoacoustic waves into electrical signals. The light emitting section is configured to emit light onto an emission range on the subject that includes the entirety of a corresponding region of the subject that corresponds to the electroacoustic converting section, the minimum distance between the outer peripheral edge of the corresponding region and the outer peripheral edge of the emission range being 5 mm or greater. The present invention enables detection of photoacoustic waves with a higher S/N ratio, in photoacoustic inspection that utilizes the photoacoustic effect. | 10-03-2013 |
20130261427 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING DEVICE AND SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - A subject information acquiring device has: an acoustic detector which receives an acoustic wave propagated in a subject and converts into an electrical signal; and a data processing device which generates a subject information distribution using the electrical signal, and the data processing device has a matching processing unit which acquires a similarity distribution by calculating a similarity between: template data indicating a relationship between a real image; and an artifact and the subject information distribution used as a matching information distribution, so that it is possible to provide a photoacoustic image forming diagnosing device which can distinguish between an image and a background even when the contrast is poor. | 10-03-2013 |
20130267820 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS AND SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING METHOD - A subject information obtaining apparatus includes a plurality of acoustic wave detection elements, each of which detects a photoacoustic wave generated when a subject is irradiated with light and outputs a detection signal, an initial-sound-pressure obtaining unit that obtains an initial sound pressure in a region of interest in the subject on the basis of the detection signals, a light-intensity obtaining unit that obtains a corrected light intensity in the region of interest on the basis of weighting coefficients based on sensitivity distributions of the acoustic wave detection elements and a light intensity of the light with which the region of interest is irradiated, and an optical-characteristic-value obtaining unit that obtains an optical characteristic value in the region of interest on the basis of the initial sound pressure and the corrected light intensity. | 10-10-2013 |
20130267821 | MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USE IN TISSUE CHARACTERIZATION AND TREATMENT - A medical device is presented for use in tissue characterization and treatment. The device comprises a tissue characterization probe comprising an elongated carrier carrying an array of tissue characterization sensors which are arranged in a spaced-apart relationship on at least a part of the carrier with known distances between them along a longitudinal axis of the carrier and along at least part of a circumference of the carrier, such that during progression of the probe through a tissue mass each of the sensors generates tissue characterization signals from successive locations thereof within the tissue mass enabling to locate an abnormal tissue inside said tissue mass, thereby enabling consequent treatment of the abnormal tissue. Several movement mechanisms are described for enabling relative movement between the carrier and a treatment tool passing therethrough. | 10-10-2013 |
20130267822 | Probe - Provided is a probe and a measurement system which uses the probe. According to one implementation, the probe includes a radiated-light measurement optical system and an oblique-viewing imaging device. The radiated-light measurement optical system irradiates illumination light onto a measurement target region on a biological tissue. The oblique-viewing imaging device has an angular field α and a forward tilt angle β defined by a center axis of a field of view and a radial direction of the probe. The radiated-light measurement optical system has an optical element that determines a direction of emission of the illumination light, and a forward tilt angle γ is defined by the direction of emission and the radial direction of the probe. The oblique-viewing imaging device and the optical element are positioned such that the measurement target region lies within the angular field. | 10-10-2013 |
20130267823 | MEASURING APPARATUS - A measuring apparatus has a holding unit for holding an object, and a probe including a receiving element for receiving through the holding unit an acoustic wave generated by the object irradiated with light. The light is applied to an object surface held by the holding unit. The probe is arranged such that a direction of a normal to the object surface held by the holding unit is nonparallel to a direction in which the receiving element exhibits its highest reception sensitivity. | 10-10-2013 |
20130274585 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAME - Disclosed is a photoacoustic wave diagnosing apparatus including a holding unit that presses and holds an object during imaging; a photoacoustic measuring unit that measures information on the photoacoustic wave of the object pressed by the holding unit; an optical coefficient acquiring unit that acquires an optical coefficient based on the object in the pressed state; and a reconstruction unit that performs image reconstruction based on the information on a photoacoustic wave signal measured by the photoacoustic measuring unit and the optical coefficient acquired by the optical coefficient acquiring unit. | 10-17-2013 |
20130274586 | EVALUATION METHOD, EVALUATION DEVICE, PROGRAM, AND RECORDING MEDIUM - An information acquiring method configured to acquire brain activity information from biological subjects presented a sensory stimulus, in which the brain activity information is acquired by measuring the brain activity in at least one region of the brain areas of the biological subjects including the visual cortices of the cerebral cortex, the auditory cortices of the cerebral cortex, and the vestibular cortices of the cerebral cortex; while the stimulus which changes over time is presented to the brain areas by the stimulus presenting unit before and after the sensory stimulus is presented to the brain areas. | 10-17-2013 |
20130281818 | Medical Imaging System With Range Imaging-Based Control - A system includes a scanner configured to generate scan data of a patient volume or area, a processor configured to implement control operations, the control operations being directed to acquisition of the scan data or to processing of the scan data, and a monitoring system including a range imaging camera positioned for a field of view such that the monitoring system is configured to capture spatial data indicative of movement of an object spaced from the scanner. The processor is configured to implement an adjustment in the control operations based on the spatial data. | 10-24-2013 |
20130281819 | NOISE SUPPRESSION IN AN OPTOACOUSTIC SYSTEM - An optoacoustic imaging system includes an ultrasound transducer array, first and second light sources and a switching power supply that generates power for the light sources. The switching power supply includes an input for impeding its switching operation. A data acquisition unit samples the ultrasound transducer array for a first predetermined period of time after a pulse of light from the first light source and for a second predetermined period of time after a pulse of light from the second light source and stores the sampled data. A master processor utilizes the input to impede operation of the switching operation of the switching power supply during the first predetermined period of time after a pulse of light from the first light source, and during the second predetermined period of time after a pulse of light from the second light source. | 10-24-2013 |
20130281820 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO IMPROVE VISCERAL ADIPOSE TISSUE ESTIMATE BY MEASURING AND CORRECTING FOR SUBCUTANEOUS ADIPOSE TISSUE COMPOSITION - A method and system for estimating the visceral adipose tissue (VAT) of a subject comprising performing a dual-energy X-ray scan of the subject; generating at least one image of the subject from the dual-energy X-ray scan; identifying a region of interest; dividing the region of interest into a plurality of sections; generating a soft tissue composition profile for each of the plurality of sections, wherein the soft tissue composition profile identifies an edge of the subject, an outer edge of an abdominal wall of the subject, a subcutaneous region and a subcutaneous thickness for each of the plurality of sections; determining a subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) composition for each of the plurality of sections, wherein a subcutaneous fat fraction is used to calculate the subcutaneous fat and lean masses and/or volumes; and determining a VAT based on the determined SAT composition for each of the plurality of sections. | 10-24-2013 |
20130289381 | DUAL MODALITY IMAGING SYSTEM FOR COREGISTERED FUNCTIONAL AND ANATOMICAL MAPPING - A real-time imaging system that provides ultrasonic imaging and optoacoustic imaging coregistered through application of the same hand-held probe to generate and detect ultrasonic and optoacoustic signals. These signals are digitized, processed and used to reconstruct anatomical maps superimposed with maps of two functional parameters of blood hemoglobin index and blood oxygenation index. The blood hemoglobin index represents blood hemoglobin concentration changes in the areas of diagnostic interest relative to the background blood concentration. The blood oxygenation index represents blood oxygenation changes in the areas of diagnostic interest relative to the background level of blood oxygenation. These coregistered maps can be used to noninvasively differentiate malignant tumors from benign lumps and cysts. | 10-31-2013 |
20130289382 | ARTICLE OF CLOTHING INCLUDING BIO-MEDICAL UNITS - An article of clothing includes a clothing fabric and a plurality of bio-medical units integrated into the clothing fabric. A bio-medical includes a power harvesting module, a communication module, a processing module, a functional module, a die, and an IC package. The die supports the power harvesting module, the processing module, the communication module, and the functional module. The IC package houses the die and includes a mechanism for adhering to the clothing fabric. | 10-31-2013 |
20130296682 | INTEGRATING PRE-SURGICAL AND SURGICAL IMAGES - Embodiments are disclosed that relate to the integration of pre-surgical images and surgical images. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides, on a computing system, a method including receiving a pre-surgical image of a patient, receiving a depth image of the patient during surgery, and comparing the depth image of the patient to the pre-surgical image of the patient. The method further comprises providing an output based upon a result of comparing the depth image of the patient to the pre-surgical image of the patient. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296683 | DIAGNOSTIC SIMULATOR - A testing apparatus for an optoacoustic device includes a light pulse sensor operatively connected to a light output port of the optoacoustic device, the light pulse sensor being adapted to sense a pulse of light capable of generating an optoacoustic response in a subject and to distinguish between the light pulse and the at least one other light pulse on the basis of the predominant wavelength. The light pulse sensor outputs a trigger signal associated with the distinguished light pulse when such light pulse is sensed. A transducer signal simulator outputs a first plurality of electrical signals simulating those produced by a transducer array and reflective of an optoacoustic response in a subject to a light pulse at a first wavelength in response to a trigger signal from the light pulse sensor associated with a light pulse having a first wavelength. The simulator outputs a second plurality of electrical signals simulating those produced by a transducer array and reflective of an optoacoustic response in a subject to a light pulse at a second predominant wavelength in response to a trigger signal from the light pulse sensor associated with a light pulse having a second wavelength. Conductors carry the plurality of electrical signals output by the transducer signal simulator to the pins of a multi-pin connector. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296684 | PROBE HOLDER - A holder for an optoacoustic probe includes a probe-end enclosing portion formed from material that is substantially opaque to light emanating from an optical window of a probe. The probe-end enclosing portion is sized to enclose the active end of the probe and have a snug fit therewith when the optoacoustic probe is inserted therein, and has minimal or no contact with the optical window and acoustic lens of the probe. The probe holder further includes a cutaway adapted to support the probe's strain relief under the downward force of gravity, thereby supporting the probe at an angle that provides for easy manual grasping and removal. The probe support also blocks an in-holder probe from sliding away from the probe-enclosing end. A cable guide is spaced from the probe support to accept a connecting cable exiting from the proximal end of the probe, and thus reduce pressure on the strain relief and soften the angle of curvature of the connecting cable. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296685 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM - There is provided an information processing apparatus including an eardrum recognition unit configured to recognize a position of an eardrum based on image information regarding the eardrum, a temperature measurement unit configured to acquire a temperature within an external ear canal including the eardrum, and a temperature processing unit configured to determine a temperature of the eardrum based on a recognition result of the eardrum recognition unit and a measured temperature of the temperature measurement unit. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296686 | Systems and Methods for Maintaining a Narrow Body Lumen - Devices and processes for maintaining a narrow body lumen are described. One embodiment of the inventive device includes: (i) a hydraulic propulsion mechanism for propelling an imaging portion or a therapeutic portion through the narrow body lumen; and (ii) a retrieval mechanism for retrieving the imaging portion or the therapeutic portion from the narrow body lumen. | 11-07-2013 |
20130303875 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMICALLY VARYING THE ANGLE OF LIGHT TRANSMISSION IN AN OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEM - An optoacoustic probe includes an optical window, a light path, an acoustic lens and an ultrasound transducer array. The light path operatively connects a light source to the probe, and is adapted to transmit light through the optical window at an angle of light transmission. The ultrasound transducer array includes ultrasound transducer elements, and has the inner surface of the acoustic lens at its active end. The probe is enabled to vary the angle of light transmission responsive to at least one command. In an embodiment, the light source generates a light pulse at at least one predominant wavelength. The light path may comprise at least first plurality of optical fibers. A control and processing system may be provided that is capable of pulsing the light source, causing the probe to transmit ultrasound, receiving and processing optoacoustic and ultrasound data, and controlling the operation of the system. An electrical path operatively connecting the control and processing system to the probe transmits and receives ultrasound data, and receives optoacoustic data. The control and processing system may be capable of transmitting at least one command to the probe via a control line such that the probe is caused to vary an angle of light transmission of the first plurality of optical fibers responsive to a first one of the at least one commands. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303876 | CAROTID BODY MODULATION PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT - Planning for and/or assessment of an ablation procedure on one or both carotid bodies or carotid body chemoreceptors or carotid body nerves to treat patients having a sympathetically mediated cardiac, metabolic, and pulmonary disease (e.g. hypertension, CHF, diabetes, sleep disordered breathing) resulting from peripheral chemoreceptor hypersensitivity, carotid body hyperactivity, high carotid body afferent nerve signaling or heightened sympathetic activation. | 11-14-2013 |
20130303877 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE TREATMENT OF RESPIRATORY AND OTHER INFECTIONS USING ULTRAVIOLET GERMICIDAL IRRADIATION - Method and apparatus for using computer controlled, fiber-coupled laser delivery of treatment specific wavelength, intensity and duration of UV irradiation to control bacterial, fungal, viral and mold infections in bodily cavities, fluids and external applications. The method of treatment is focused on DNA breakdown beyond repair by natural DNA repair mechanisms of the pathogen, with less than damaging doses to tissues being treated, thus avoiding mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. The minimal intensity and duration and exposure area of any given surface of tissue to be treated is to be pre-determined by tissue and pathogen testing to optimize the therapeutic ratio. External applications include specifically Trichophyton Rubrum (toenail fungus) through the nail and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa infections in burns and elsewhere. | 11-14-2013 |
20130317336 | Adaptive ECG Trigger Signal Jitter detection for Imaging - A system provides an image acquisition trigger signal compensated for signal processing time delay. An interface receives waveform signal data representing electrical activity of a patient heart over at least one heart beat cycle. A detector detects a particular point associated with a particular signal portion within successive heart beat cycles of the signal data. A first time variation detector provides a first timing adjustment signal in response to detected change in time of occurrence of the detected particular point. A second time variation detector provides a second timing adjustment signal in response to comparison of relative timing of the trigger signal and the detected particular point. An output processor generates the trigger signal in response to the detected particular point and the first timing adjustment signal and the second timing adjustment signal. | 11-28-2013 |
20130324830 | MINUTE VENTILATION ESTIMATION BASED ON DEPTH MAPS - What is disclosed is a system and method for estimating minute ventilation by analyzing distortions in reflections of structured illumination patterns captured in a video of a thoracic region of a subject of interest being monitored for respiratory function. Measurement readings can be acquired in a few seconds under a diverse set of lighting conditions and provide a non-contact approach to patient respiratory function that is particularly useful for infant care in an intensive care unit (ICU), sleep studies, and can aid in the early detection of sudden deterioration of physiological conditions due to detectable changes in chest volume. The systems and methods disclosed herein provide an effective tool for non-contact minute ventilation estimation and respiratory function analysis. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324831 | NON-INVASIVE IMAGING FOR DETERMINATION OF GLOBAL TISSUE CHARACTERISTICS - Evaluating tissue characteristics including identification of injured tissue or alteration of the ratios of native tissue components such as shifting the amounts of normal myocytes and fibrotic tissue in the heart, identifying increases in the amount of extracellular components or fluid (like edema or extracellular matrix proteins), or detecting infiltration of tumor cells or mediators of inflammation into the tissue of interest in a patient, such as a human being, is provided by obtaining a first image of tissue including a region of interest from a first acquisition, and obtaining a second image of the tissue including the region of interest during a second, subsequent acquisition. The subsequent acquisition may be obtained after a period of time to determine if injury has occurred during that period of time. Such a comparison may include comparison of mean, average characteristics, histogram shape, such as skew and kurtosis, or distribution of intensities within the histogram. | 12-05-2013 |
20130331680 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - Disclosed is an object information acquiring apparatus including: a receiver that includes a plurality of elements and converts an acoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light into a received signal, and outputs the received signal in a time series; a normalizer that generates a normalized signal by normalizing the intensity of the received signal; and a processor that generates, from the normalized signal, first image data that indicates the distribution of property information inside the object. | 12-12-2013 |
20130331681 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC PROBE - In an object information acquisition apparatus, an optical system and an acoustic wave detector are closely arranged, and when the acoustic wave detector and an object acoustically contact each other through an acoustic matching member, a light exit surface of the optical system is arranged so that the light exit surface does not directly contact the acoustic matching member. | 12-12-2013 |
20130331682 | BREAST IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS - In a breast image capturing apparatus having an arm section for moving a radiation source in a left-right direction in front of a subject, providing a shielding member for preventing radiation from being applied to the face of the subject on an arm section, and supporting the shielding member movably relative to the arm section when the face of the subject is abutted to the shielding member and fixedly relative to the arm section when the face of the subject is not abutted to the shielding member. | 12-12-2013 |
20130331683 | ELC Thermofilm and Method for Automatically Ascertaining an ELC Thermofilm for Contact Thermography in Order to Detect Temperature Distributions on the Surface, in Particular the Chest, of a Living Being, in Particular a Human Being - An ELC thermal film, in particular for automatically determining an ELC thermal film for contact thermography for detecting temperature distributions on the surface, in particular the breast, of a living organism, in particular of a human being, comprising a carrier film, if appropriate a black layer on the carrier film and a layer containing, preferably microencapsulated, cholesteric liquid crystals on the carrier film or black layer, characterized in that the layer containing the liquid crystals is subdivided in a grid- or strip-shaped fashion into regions having at least two different mixtures of different cholesteric liquid crystals, and a method for automatically determining an ELC thermal film for contact thermography for detecting temperature distributions on the surface, in particular the breast, of a living organism, in particular of a human being | 12-12-2013 |
20130338474 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGER AND METHODS FOR CALIBRATING AN IMAGER - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus is provided for medical or other imaging applications and also a method for calibrating this apparatus. The apparatus employs a sparse array of transducer elements and a reconstruction algorithm. Spatial calibration maps of the sparse array are used to optimize the reconstruction algorithm. The apparatus includes a laser producing a pulsed laser beam to illuminate a subject for imaging and generate photoacoustic waves. The transducers are fixedly mounted on a holder so as to form the sparse array. A photoacoustic (PA) waves are received by each transducer. The resultant analog signals from each transducer are amplified, filtered, and converted to digital signals in parallel by a data acquisition system which is operatively connected to a computer. The computer receives the digital signals and processes the digital signals by the algorithm based on iterative forward projection and back-projection in order to provide the image. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338475 | Optoacoustic imaging system with fiber optic cable - An optoacoustic imaging system comprising a light source, a handheld probe and a fiber optic cable is disclosed. The light source is capable of generating at least one pulse of light. The handheld probe comprising a transducer array capable of receiving an optoacoustic return signal. In an embodiment, the fibers being randomized between the input and the output in a manner that prevents a local anomaly affecting an adjacent group of the fibers at the input from affecting an adjacent group of the fibers at the output. In an embodiment, the output of the fiber optic cable being organized into multiple groups, and the fibers being intermingled between the input and the output in a manner that prevents a local anomaly affecting an adjacent group of the fibers at the input from disproportionately affecting one or more of the output groups. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338476 | METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR CARRIER AGENTS AND CLEARING AGENTS USED IN OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEMS - A method for optoacoustic imaging of a tissue mass after treating the skin overlying a portion of a tissue being imaged to improve optical clarity is presented. In an embodiment, the method involves optoacoustic imaging after first applying a carrier agent such as hyaluronic acid to the skin surface and applying a clearing agent to the skin. A method of temporarily reducing optical scattering (opacity) of skin for diagnostic purposes is also presented. In an embodiment, the method involves applying a liquid comprising at least one of: polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, to the skin, the skin having been pretreated with hyaluronic acid. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338477 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PROSTATE DIAGNOSIS AND INTERVENTION - Methods, systems, and devices for assisting or performing an image-guided prostate procedure are disclosed. A needle assembly includes a needle guide, a needle device, a position sensor and additional features. The position sensor allows for the tracking of the needle assembly. A method for performing image-guided prostate procedures includes pre-operative procedures and intra-operative procedures. The pre-operative procedures include imaging studies to model the prostate and identify targets. The pre-operative procedures models are used during a prostate procedure to track the target and the devices used for the procedure. A system for performing image-guided procedures includes the needle assembly and other components. | 12-19-2013 |
20130338478 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - A probe transmits acoustic waves toward a subject. After transmission of the acoustic waves, the probe receives reflected acoustic waves of the transmitted acoustic waves. Whether the probe is in contact with a subject is judged based on the received reflected acoustic waves. The probe irradiates light toward the subject when it is judged that the probe is in contact with the subject. After the light is irradiated, acoustic waves generated within the subject due to the light being irradiated are received. A photoacoustic image is generated based on the received acoustic waves generated due to the light being irradiated. | 12-19-2013 |
20130345541 | ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICE INCORPORATING A PHOTO-ACOUSTIC SYSTEM FOR INTERROGATING/IMAGING TISSUE - The present disclosure is directed to an electrosurgical system for imaging and interrogating tissue. The electrosurgical system includes an energy source configured to generate a first energy and an electrosurgical instrument. the electrosurgical instrument includes a transmission line coupled to the energy source and configured to emit the first energy. A mirror reflects the first energy towards a target tissue that emits a second energy. An ultrasonic transducer receives the second energy from the target tissue and converts the second energy into an electrical signal. A controller receives the electrical signal and converts the electrical signal into an image. | 12-26-2013 |
20130345542 | DETERMINATION BY INDEPENDENT COMPONENT ANALYSIS OF THE EFFICACY OF A TREATMENT - A method is described for determining a value for quantifying the deviation from a mean value of a distribution of a divergence in severity between an initial instant and a later instant subsequent to the initial instant. | 12-26-2013 |
20130345543 | Status Indicator Lights for a Medical Imaging System - A system for calming a patient positioned in a medical imaging device for imaging a patient. The system includes a scanner configured to generate scan data of a patient volume or area. The system also includes a processor configured to implement control operations, the control operations being directed to acquisition of the scan data or to processing of the scan data. In addition the system includes a patient bed for supporting the patient and status indicator lights for providing biofeedback to the patient that is indicative of breathing. | 12-26-2013 |
20140005516 | DIAGNOSIS IMAGE APPARATUS AND OPERATION METHOD THEREOF | 01-02-2014 |
20140012124 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING ANOMALOUS CHANNEL IN AN OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEM - Described is system and method for detecting anomalous channels in an optoacoustic imaging system in which transducer elements are acoustically coupled with a portion of the surface of a volume of tissue and a pulse of light is directed onto an area of the surface, the pulse imparting less than a predetermined fluence upon the surface. A sinogram is recorded by sampling transducers acoustically coupled with the surface of the volume for a predetermined period of time after the pulse of light to record data reflecting the optoacoustic response of the volume of tissue to the pulse, the samples for each transducer corresponding to a channel. The sinogram is analyzed for the presence of one or more anomalous channels, and the sinogram samples corresponding with the anomalous channels are modified to reduce the affect of the anomalous channel on an image reconstructed from the sinogram. | 01-09-2014 |
20140012125 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING DEVICES AND METHODS OF IMAGING - A photoacoustic medical imaging device may include a substrate, an array of ultrasonic transducers on the substrate, at least one groove etched on the substrate, at least one optical fiber, and at least one facet. Each optical fiber is disposed in one of the grooves. Each facet is etched in one of the grooves and coated with a layer of metal having high infrared reflectivity. Each optical fiber is configured to guide infrared light from a light source through the fiber and toward the respective facet. The facet is configured to reflect the infrared light toward a target. | 01-09-2014 |
20140018659 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - An object information acquiring apparatus, comprising: a plurality of detecting elements which detect an acoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light and convert the acoustic wave into detection signals; a signal determining unit which determines a detection signal detected by a detecting element which is not in acoustic contact with the object, of the plurality of detecting elements; a signal acquisition unit which generates a corrected detection signal by deleting at least a region which is not based on an acoustic wave generated from the interior of the object, from the determined detection signal; and an image processor which forms image data of the object from a detection signal detected by a detecting element which is in acoustic contact with the object and from the corrected detection signal. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018660 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS, PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD, AND PROBE FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - Acoustic waves and photoacoustic waves are detected efficiently in a photoacoustic imaging apparatus configured to obtain acoustic images as well, to enable obtainment of high quality acoustic images and photoacoustic images. A probe for a photoacoustic imaging apparatus is equipped with: first piezoelectric bodies that detect acoustic waves reflected by a subject after the acoustic waves are irradiated onto the subject; and second piezoelectric bodies that detect photoacoustic waves generated within the subject due to irradiation of light after the light is irradiated onto the subject. Piezoelectric bodies made from an inorganic material are employed as the first piezoelectric bodies, and piezoelectric bodies made from an organic material are employed as the second piezoelectric bodies. | 01-16-2014 |
20140018661 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE GENERATING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE GENERATING METHOD - Light is prevented from being irradiated onto positions different from portions at which photoacoustic images are to be generated. Acoustic waves are transmitted from a probe, and the probe detects reflected acoustic signals of the transmitted ultrasonic waves. The features of the reflected acoustic signals detected by the probe and the features of reflected acoustic signals, which are obtained in advance when the probe is at a position where a photoacoustic image is to be generated, are compared. Light is irradiated onto a subject if it is judged that the features of the reflected acoustic signals match. Photoacoustic signals generated within the subject due to irradiation of laser light are detected, and a photoacoustic image is generated based on the photoacoustic signals. | 01-16-2014 |
20140024916 | MULTI-CARDIAC SOUND GATED IMAGING AND POST-PROCESSING OF IMAGING DATA BASED ON CARDIAC SOUND - A method image includes determining an end systolic imaging trigger, acquiring cardiac imaging data including first imaging data corresponding to a first predetermined data acquisition interval surrounding end systole, and post-processing the cardiac imaging data based at least on the end systolic imaging trigger. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024917 | RANGE GATED RADIO FREQUENCY PHYSIOLOGY SENSOR - A sensor for physiology sensing may be configured to generate oscillation signals for emitting radio frequency pulses for range gated sensing. The sensor may include a radio frequency transmitter configured to emit the pulses and a receiver configured to receive reflected ones of the emitted radio frequency pulses. The received pulses may be processed to detect physiology characteristics such as motion, sleep, respiration and/or heartbeat. In some embodiments, the sensor may employ a circuit including a pulse generator configured to generate signal pulses. The circuit may also include a dielectric resonator oscillator configured to generate a radio frequency oscillating signal. A switched oscillation circuit may be coupled to the pulse generator and the dielectric resonator oscillator. The switched circuit may be configured to generate a pulsed radio frequency oscillating signal for emitting the radio frequency pulses. | 01-23-2014 |
20140024918 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - A photoacoustic imaging method that enables photoacoustic images to be displayed at high speed is provided. The photoacoustic imaging method scans a subject with a light beam, detects acoustic waves generated within the subject due to the scanning of light to obtain acoustic wave detected signals, and generates volume data that represent three dimensional photoacoustic images of the subject based on the acoustic wave detected signals. Photoacoustic projection images projected in the direction of irradiation depth of the light are generated, prior to the volume data being generated and concurrently with the scanning of the light. The photoacoustic projection images are displayed. | 01-23-2014 |
20140031664 | RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING DEVICE - An imaging system includes a radiation source, a detector fixed to the radiation source such that the radiation source and detector form a hand-held imaging device configured to acquire image data, and a navigation system configured to track a pose of the hand-held imaging device. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031665 | Telecentric Scale Projection System for Real-Time In-Situ Surgical Metrology - A system and method for determining endoscopic dimensional measurements including a projector assembly comprising a light source for projecting light through a telecentric lens and into a surgical site, and a mask coupled to the projector assembly. Light projected from the light source projects through the mask. The projected light through the mask may be a collimated pattern which does not significantly change in size as a function of the distance to a projected plane. The projected light patterns may include multiple wavelengths of light for measurements of different features of tissue and may be produced using a laser in conjunction with a light shaping optical diffuser, or using a light emitting diode in conjunction with a light shaping optical diffuser, or using a spatial filter. The projected light patterns may take the form of concentric rings with each ring representing a radius of a given dimension. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031666 | System for Positioning and Holding an Anatomy in a Medical Imaging Device - A system for positioning an anatomy of a patient in a medical imaging device. The system includes one or more sensor elements disposed on a region of interest of the anatomy movable within a bore of the medical imaging device, and one or more detector units configured to detect the one or more sensor elements for positioning a region of interest of the anatomy with respect to a point in the imaging range of the bore. | 01-30-2014 |
20140031667 | LASER APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A laser apparatus includes a laser medium; a light source that radiates light to the laser medium, thereby exciting the laser medium and raising the temperature thereof; a reflecting unit having a first plane that reflects light within a predetermined wavelength range from light generated by excitation of the laser medium; and an output mirror disposed opposite the reflecting unit, with the laser medium being interposed therebetween, and causing laser oscillation by inducing resonance of the light within a predetermined wavelength range between the first plane and the output mirror. The reflecting unit is configured to be movable between a position in which light resonance is induced between the output mirror and the first plane and the laser apparatus is set to an oscillation state and a position in which the laser apparatus is set to a non-oscillation state. | 01-30-2014 |
20140039293 | OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING SYSTEM HAVING HANDHELD PROBE UTILIZING OPTICALLY REFLECTIVE MATERIAL - An optoacoustic imaging system includes a hand-held imaging probe having a light emitting portion and an array of ultrasonic transducers. The probe includes an acoustic lens having an optically reflective material that operates to avoid image artifacts associated with light interactions with the acoustic lens. The optically reflective material may be a thin, highly optically reflective metallic layer. The acoustic lens may be formed from a material such as silicon rubber filled with titanium dioxide or barium sulfate that allows it to reflect and scatter light from illumination components with substantially no absorption of such light, and yet be optically opaque. The probe may include a housing that provides hypo-echoic encapsulation of the probe. An assembly of the array of ultrasonic transducers may include a hypo-echoic material. The probe may include optical windows, each comprising one or more anti-reflection-coated plates with acoustic impedance matching that of tissues to be imaged. | 02-06-2014 |
20140046165 | SPECIMEN INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREFOR - There is provided a specimen information acquisition apparatus that can obtain an image in which an influence of a local fluence distribution in a specimen is reduced. A signal processing apparatus includes a region extraction unit and an optical constant estimation unit. The region extraction unit extracts two or more regions that have a known absorption coefficient, from an optical characteristic value distribution of the specimen. The optical constant estimation unit estimates an optical constant of a background of the specimen by using optical characteristic values of the two or more regions extracted by the region extraction unit and a local fluence distribution obtained from an optical constant which is set in advance for the specimen background. | 02-13-2014 |
20140046166 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS, CONTROL METHOD THEREOF, AND METHOD FOR DETERMINATION OF CONTACT - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus having: a photoacoustic probe unit including a light irradiating unit which irradiates light, and a probe which receives a photoacoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light while transmitting an ultrasound wave to the object and receiving a reflected wave thereof; a processor configured to create image information of the object based on the photoacoustic wave; and a controller configured to control irradiation with light, wherein when a first contact condition is defined as a condition in which the object is irradiated with light while the probe is acoustically matched with the object, the controller determines whether or not the photoacoustic probe unit is in the first contact condition by using the reflected wave and enables irradiation with light when the photoacoustic probe unit is in the first contact condition. | 02-13-2014 |
20140051964 | MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - A medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to an embodiment comprises: a bed device on which an examinee lies down; a gantry having a tunnel-shaped inner portion into which the bed device moves and inserts a table with which the examinee is in direct contact, and being configured to obtain information on an interior of the examinee by imaging the examinee located in the inner portion; and a control device configured to control drive of the bed device and the gantry. The medical diagnostic imaging apparatus further comprises a multi-degree-of-freedom support mechanism mounted at a position facing the bed device with the gantry interposed in between and configured to support the table based on a control by the control device in accordance with movement of the table. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051965 | Implantable Zero-Wire Communications System - The present invention provides implantable systems that communicate wirelessly with each other using a unique format that enables devices configurations and applications heretofore not possible. Embodiments of the present invention provide communication apparatuses and methods for exchanging information with implantable medical devices. In some embodiments, two implantable devices communicate with each other using quasi-electrostatic signal transmission in a long wavelength/low frequency electromagnetic band, with the patient's body acting as a conductive medium. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051966 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS AND PROBE UNIT FOR USE THEREWITH - A photoacoustic measurement apparatus which includes a diffuser plate for diffusing laser light inputted from the upstream side of an optical system, a lens system for focusing the laser light diffused by the diffuser plate, and an optical fiber cable which includes an optical fiber having a core and cladding structure and a light energy resistant structure at an end portion on the side of the lens system, and is disposed such that the laser light focused by the lens is inputted from one end, in which the light projection unit projects the laser light guided by the optical fiber cable as the measuring light. In a photoacoustic measurement performed by guiding the measuring light using an optical fiber, high energy measuring light can be guided while inhibiting end face damage of the optical fiber. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051967 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS AND PROBE UNIT FOR USE THEREWITH, AND ENDOSCOPE - A photoacoustic measurement apparatus which includes a diffuser plate which diffuses laser light inputted from the upstream side of an optical system, a lens system which focuses the laser light diffused by the diffuser plate, and an optical fiber cable which includes an optical fiber having a core and cladding structure and is disposed such that the laser light focused by the lens system is inputted from one end, in which the light projection unit projects the laser light guided by the optical fiber cable as the measuring light. In a photoacoustic measurement performed by guiding the measuring light using an optical fiber, high energy measuring light can be guided while inhibiting end face damage of the optical fiber. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051968 | RECTAL BALLOON WITH SENSOR CABLE - An endorectal balloon having a pocket thereon for holding a sensor cable that can be used for radiation dosimetry or to detect motion of the prostate or balloon. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051969 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME - An object information acquiring apparatus includes a light irradiating unit that radiates light to an object to generate a photoacoustic wave, a transducer that receives the photoacoustic wave, outputs a photoacoustic signal, transmits and receives an ultrasound wave beam to and from the object, and outputs an ultrasound echo signal, a determining unit that determines whether there is an object on an optical path from the light irradiating unit, and an image processor that generates internal image data of the object using the photoacoustic signal. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051970 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus comprising a probe including a plurality of conversion elements which receive acoustic waves emitted from an object and convert the acoustic waves into received signals, a delay unit which matches phases of the plurality of received signals output from the plurality of conversion elements, a signal adder which adds the plurality of received signals output from the delay unit, for each group to obtain latter input signals, and an adaptive signal processor which generates internal image data of the object by performing adaptive signal processing on the plurality of latter input signals output from a plurality of the signal adders. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051971 | LIGHT IRRADIATING APPARATUS, CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR, AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A light irradiating apparatus is used, which is characterized by having: a probe including an irradiating unit which guides light to an object, a housing containing the irradiating unit, and a touch sensor acquiring a contact condition amount between the object and the housing; and a controller controlling irradiation with light from the irradiating unit based on a level of the contact condition amount and a change in the contact condition amount, wherein in a case where the contact condition amount is equal to or more than a first reference value while the change in the contact condition amount which occurs when the housing is pressed against the object is a positive value, the controller performs a control which enables irradiation with light from the irradiating unit when the change in the contact condition amount is equal to or more than a second reference value. | 02-20-2014 |
20140058244 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING - A system comprising a photoacoustic module, an ablation module, and a processor. The photoacoustic module includes a light emitter and an acoustic sensor. The acoustic sensor is configured to provide a sensor output corresponding to a modulated pressure detected in a target tissue in response to light from the emitter. The ablation module is associated with the photoacoustic module. The ablation module has an energy discharge port configured to contact the tissue at an ablation target and is configured to ablate the ablation target. The processor is coupled to the ablation module and coupled to the photoacoustic module. The processor is configured to execute an algorithm to provide an output signal indicative of the ablation progress and is configured to control the ablation module based on the sensor output. | 02-27-2014 |
20140058245 | MEASURING APPARATUS - A measuring apparatus is provided including a holding unit holding an object, an acoustic detecting unit including at least one detector which receives, via the holding unit, an acoustic wave generated from the object to which light is irradiated and converts the acoustic wave into an electrical signal, and a processor which generates image data of the object by using the electrical signal based on the acoustic wave received by the acoustic detecting unit at first and second measurement locations, wherein the acoustic detecting unit is arranged so as to form an overlapped area that is thicker than the object in a normal direction of an interface between the holding unit and the object as a result of the effective receiving areas of the detector in the first and second measurement locations overlapping in the object. | 02-27-2014 |
20140066743 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus is used which includes a first light source outputting irradiation light delivered to an object, an output unit to which the irradiation light is guided and which includes an opening smaller than a wavelength of the irradiation light, a probe detecting an acoustic wave generated when the object absorbs near-field light output by the output unit, and a signal processing unit acquiring information on an interior of the object from the acoustic wave detected by the probe. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066744 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus according to the present invention has: a light source emitting light; a holding member holding an object; a probe receiving an acoustic wave, generated by the object when the light is irradiated on the object via the holding member, and outputting a received signal; and a signal processor acquiring information extracted from the object by using the received signal, wherein a region of the holding member that comes into contact with the object is configured as a non-uniform region that is a region where a normal direction of a tangential plane between the holding member and the object is not constant. | 03-06-2014 |
20140066745 | MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING DIFFERENT COMPUTERS FOR CONTROL OF DATA ACQUISITION AND FOR IMAGE RECONSTRUCTION - An imaging system, includes an imaging installation or an imaging scanner to generate raw data; a first computer that is connected with the imaging installation or the imaging scanner for controlling the imaging installation or the imaging scanner, a memory to store the generated raw data; and a second computer to calculate an image from the stored raw data. | 03-06-2014 |
20140073898 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR QUALIFYING PHYSIOLOGICAL VALUES BASED ON SEGMENTS OF A PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNAL - A physiological monitoring system may process a physiological signal such a photoplethysmograph signal from a subject. The system may determine physiological information, such as a physiological rate, from the physiological signal. The system may use search techniques and qualification techniques to determine one or more initialization parameters. The initialization parameters may be used to calculate and qualify a physiological rate. The system may use signal conditioning to reduce noise in the physiological signal and to improve the determination of physiological information. The system may use qualification techniques to confirm determined physiological parameters. The system may also use autocorrelation techniques, cross-correlation techniques, fast start techniques, and/or reference waveforms when processing the physiological signal. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073899 | PHOTOACOUSTIC SENSOR SYSTEM - A sensor fixture is provided for operatively attaching a photoacoustic (PA) sensor to a patient. The sensor fixture includes an acoustic coupling agent that is configured to allow the transmission of both acoustic energy and light therethrough. The sensor fixture includes a bracket configured to be affixed to skin of the patient. The bracket includes a cavity, a patient side, and a sensor side. The acoustic coupling agent is held within the cavity. The patient side includes a patient opening that is configured to expose the acoustic coupling agent along the patient side. The sensor side includes a sensor opening that is configured to expose the acoustic coupling agent along the sensor side. The sensor side includes a sensor cradle that is configured to hold the PA sensor such that the PA sensor is operatively attached to the acoustic coupling agent for receiving an acoustic response from the patient. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073900 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING CARDIAC OUTPUT - Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system and method for non-invasively determining a cardiac output of a patient that may include a photoacoustic sensor and a determination of oxygen uptake of the patient. Specifically, a signal from a photoacoustic sensor may be used to determine a mixed venous and an arterial oxygen saturation of the patient. The parameters of mixed venous and arterial oxygen saturation in conjunction with oxygen uptake may be used to calculate cardiac output using the Fick method. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073901 | Methods and Devices for Real Time Monitoring of Collagen Content and for Altering Collagen Status - The present invention comprises methods and systems/devices for non-invasively measuring and/or altering collagen structures before, during and after treatment, e.g., by the application of RF energy, of tissues that comprise such collagen structures. | 03-13-2014 |
20140073902 | MEDICAL IMAGING UNIT WITH A SENSOR UNIT FOR DETECTING A PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNAL AND METHOD FOR DETECTING A PATIENT'S CARDIAC CYCLE - A medical imaging device includes a sensor unit for detecting a physiological signal, and a data evaluation unit which, on the basis of the detected physiological signals, determines a trigger signal for a medical imaging examination on a patient. The sensor unit includes at least one sensor element which is designed for detection of at least one blood circulation signal. | 03-13-2014 |
20140088401 | Method For Radiation Monitoring - A radiation dosimeter includes a semiconductor substrate and a buried insulator layer disposed on the semiconductor substrate. The buried insulator layer has a plurality of charge traps. A semiconductor layer is disposed on the buried insulator layer. The semiconductor layer has an emitter, an intrinsic base, and a collector laterally arranged with respect to one another. In response to radiation exposure by the radiation dosimeter, positive charges are trapped in the plurality of charge traps in the buried insulator layer, the amount of positive charge trapped being used to determine the amount of radiation exposure. A method for radiation dosimetry includes providing a radiation dosimeter, where the radiation dosimeter includes a lateral silicon-on-insulator bipolar junction transistor having a buried insulator layer; exposing the radiation dosimeter to ionizing radiation; determining a change in one of the collector current and current gain of the radiation dosimeter; and determining an amount of the radiation dose based on the change in one of the collector current and current gain. | 03-27-2014 |
20140088402 | WOUND MEASUREMENT ON SMART PHONES - A smart phone is used to accomplish measurement of a wound surface area, when at least one flat marker device, which is a predefined reference, is placed near the wound and photographed by a smart phone. | 03-27-2014 |
20140094678 | Skin Marking Porous Grid and Related Method of Use - An image guided biopsy grid markable with marking medium for marking a subject's skin underlying the grid with a marking to identify a needle entry target. The grid includes a flexible substrate and a plurality of substrate pores extending therethrough. An adhesive layer on the underside of the substrate conformingly and removably attaches the substrate to the skin substantially without gapping therebetween. The adhesive layer defines a plurality of adhesive pores and/or adhesive free spaces that allow marking medium to flow through the adhesive layer and onto the skin to mark the skin and identify the needle entry target. The biopsy grid may be marked substantially anywhere along its upper surface and marking medium will pass therethrough and mark the skin. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094679 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING ORGAN DETECTION - A method for automatically detecting an organ of interest that includes accessing a medical image dataset using a processor, automatically segmenting the medical image dataset to identify an outline of a body of a patient, automatically determining an axial reference image slice and a axial center point using the segmented body of the patient, automatically determining a location of the organ of interest using the axial reference image slice and the axial center point, and automatically placing a visual indicator in the organ of interest based on the determined location. A medical imaging system and a non-transitory computer readable medium are also described herein. | 04-03-2014 |
20140094680 | ANGIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATION METHOD FOR THE REPRESENTATION OF FLOW PROPERTIES - An angiographic examination method for the representation of flow properties of vessels of an object under examination is presented. To determine blood-flow parameters in 3-D with high temporal resolution, at least one 4-D DSA sequence is acquired for the generation of measurement-based 4-D DSA data sets. A model-based method determines time-dependent volume data sets, which, in terms of time, lie between the time-dependent volume data sets of the measurement-based 4-D DSA method. | 04-03-2014 |
20140100437 | NON-INVASIVE DIAGNOSTIC METHOD FOR BREAST CANCER - This disclosure provides a photoacoustic imaging method for calcifications or microcalcifications. This photoacoustic imaging method is able to determine benign or malignant calcifications in a non-invasive way. | 04-10-2014 |
20140100438 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR SAME - An object information acquiring apparatus, including: a probe converting an acoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light into a detection signal; and a signal processing unit generating information about the object from the detection signal, wherein the signal processing unit: extracts a sampling signal on the basis of conditions relating to the signal shape; generates a reference signal from the sampling signal; detects a phase-inverted signal, which is a portion of the detection signal where the phase is inverted with respect to the reference signal, by carrying out a correlation calculation; generates a signal after suppression by suppressing the intensity of the phase-inverted signal from the detection signal; and generates information about the interior of the object using the signal after suppression. | 04-10-2014 |
20140100439 | GUIDEWIRE ARTIFACT REMOVAL IN IMAGES - This invention relates generally to methods and systems for removing an artifact within an image. Typically, the artifact is a guidewire artifact. In one aspect, at least two images of an imaging surface are acquired. Each acquired image comprises a set of data. A guidewire artifact is detected in one of the at least two images. The guidewire artifact is replaced with data representing the imaging surface obtained from another one of the at least two images. In certain embodiments, the at least two images are of the same imaging surface having a guidewire or object causing the artifact moved to a different position. | 04-10-2014 |
20140100440 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INSTANT AND AUTOMATIC BORDER DETECTION - The invention generally relates to medical imaging systems that instantly and/or automatically detect borders. Embodiments of the invention provide an imaging system that automatically detects a border at a location within a vessel in response only to navigational input moving the image to that location. In some embodiments, systems and methods of the invention operate such that when a doctor moves an imaging catheter to a new location with in tissue, the system essentially instantly finds, and optionally displays, the border(s), calculates an occlusion, or both. | 04-10-2014 |
20140107460 | Image-Guided Radiotherapy For Internal Tumor Boost - The present invention features an image-guided radiotherapy method for tumor treatment. The method comprises the steps of obtaining a three-dimensional visualized tumor image, identifying the boundary of the tumor; designating and applying a boosted radiation dose of treatment for a boost region within the tumor boundary, wherein a predetermined safety region is between the boosted region and the tumor boundary with a predetermined minimum distance between the boosted region boundary and tumor boundary. | 04-17-2014 |
20140107461 | Adaptive Medical Testing - A computer-based system and method improves the efficiency (quality and/or cost) of healthcare services provided to a patient by dynamically adapting the tests that are performed on the patient. Such adaptation may include one or both of selecting the tests to be performed and modifying the contents and/or methods of the tests to be performed. Tests may be adapted based on a wide variety of data, such as any one or more of sensor data, coordination data, clinical data, contextual data, test outcome data, clinical outcome data, and epoch of care data. In particular, tests may be adapted based on data in a model of an epoch of care of the patient so that the tests are selected and/or modified in ways that are tailored to the patient's epoch of care. | 04-17-2014 |
20140107462 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - The object information acquiring apparatus of the present invention acquires characteristic information in an object by using an acoustic signal output from an acoustic detector including an element for receiving an acoustic wave which has propagated in the object, and includes a receiving area determination unit for obtaining a receiving area of receiving the acoustic wave by using information of a specified acquisition area for the characteristic information specified by a user, configuration information related to accuracy of the characteristic information to be acquired, and receiving condition information on receiving conditions of the acoustic wave, and a scanning control unit for controlling scanning of the acoustic detector by using information of the receiving area obtained by the receiving area determination unit. | 04-17-2014 |
20140107463 | RADIATION IMAGE CAPTURING SYSTEM AND RADIATION IMAGE CAPTURING METHOD - A radiation image capturing system and a radiation image capturing method, wherein this radiation image capturing system comprises a radiation source, a radiation detection device provided with a radiation detector for converting radiation that has been transmitted through at least a subject from the radiation source into radiation image information, a photographing sequence setting unit for setting the photographing sequence of radiation photographing when successive radiation photographing is performed, and a photographing sequence display unit (a display device, a cassette display unit, a terminal display unit) for displaying the set photographing sequence. | 04-17-2014 |
20140114169 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus applying light to an object, receiving an acoustic wave generated inside the object, and acquiring information on an inside of the object on the basis of the acoustic wave comprises a light source configured to selectively emit irradiation light with at least two kinds of wavelengths; a wavelength switching unit for instructing the light source to implement switching between the wavelengths of the irradiation light; an illumination optical system guiding the irradiation light to the object; and a light irradiation limiting unit for limiting irradiation of the light to the object during a period from when the wavelength switching unit provides an instruction on wavelength switching of the light to when the light source completes the wavelength switching of the light. | 04-24-2014 |
20140114170 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND COVER FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC PROBE - There is used an object information acquiring apparatus that has a light source; a photoacoustic probe including an emission end that emits light from the light source to an object and a reception section that receives an acoustic wave generated from the object to which the light is emitted; a cover covering at least the emission end of the photoacoustic probe; a light-shielding member provided inside the cover and filling a gap formed between the photoacoustic probe and the cover when the photoacoustic probe is inserted into the cover; and a processor acquiring information on the inside of the object based on the acoustic wave. | 04-24-2014 |
20140114171 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC PROBE - There is provided an object information acquiring apparatus that includes: an optical system forming light from a light source; an emission end emitting the light; a diffuser panel diffusing the emitted light; a spacer defining a distance between the diffuser panel and an object; a receiver receiving an acoustic wave generated from the object to which the light is emitted; and a processor acquiring information on inside of the object on the basis of the acoustic wave. | 04-24-2014 |
20140114172 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS AND SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING METHOD - A subject information obtaining apparatus and a subject information obtaining method are provided with which a resolution of a photoacoustic image can be improved even when an absorber arranged at a particular position with respect to a detector for photoacoustic waves is used. | 04-24-2014 |
20140121489 | MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM AND A PORTABLE MEDICAL IMAGING DEVICE FOR PERFORMING IMAGING - A portable medical imaging device for performing imaging procedures. The portable medical imaging device comprises a processor configured to analyze location information associated with the portable medical imaging device and determine whether the location information is linked to a location of the performing an imaging procedure. The processor selects an imaging configuration from a plurality of imaging configurations associated with an imaging procedure to be performed in the location, wherein each imaging configuration of the plurality of imaging configurations is associated with a type of imaging procedure. The processor is further configured to load the imaging configuration to perform the imaging procedure. The portable medical device ( | 05-01-2014 |
20140121490 | ACOUSTO-OPTIC IMAGING DEVICE - An acousto-optic imaging device includes: an ultrasonic wave transmitter for transmitting a divergent ultrasonic wave into a subject; an acoustic lens for converging a reflection ultrasonic wave derived from the ultrasonic wave from the subject; an acousto-optic cell including an acousto-optic propagation medium section which has a smaller sound velocity than the subject and through which the reflection ultrasonic wave converged by the acoustic lens propagates; a light source for emitting convergent light so as to irradiate the reflection ultrasonic wave propagating through the acousto-optic propagation medium section in a direction not parallel to a traveling direction of the reflection ultrasonic wave; and an image formation optical system for detecting Bragg diffracted light of the convergent light which is produced in the acousto-optic propagation medium section and converting the detected Bragg diffracted light to an electric signal. | 05-01-2014 |
20140128716 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SENSING RADIO WAVE IN DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING OF BREAST CANCER - Provided is a method of sensing a radio wave in diagnostic imaging of breast cancer, including arranging a plurality of transmitting and receiving antennas along a periphery of a breast, transmitting a radio wave signal from at least one first antenna among the plurality of transmitting and receiving antennas, receiving a scattered wave signal for the radio wave signal from the remaining antennas, other than the first antenna, among the plurality of transmitting and receiving antennas, and rotating the plurality of transmitting and receiving antennas by a predetermined angle. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128717 | Alignment Apparatus and Method of Use Therefor - An apparatus includes a baseboard, a grid, a first marker, and a second marker. The grid has a plurality of cells integrally formed with the baseboard. The first marker is integrally formed with the baseboard and intersects the grid at a first angle with respect to a reference line. The second marker is integrally formed with the baseboard and intersects the grid at a second angle with respect to the reference line. The first angle and the second angle are vertically opposite. The grid, the first marker, and the second marker are made of materials having luminescence characteristics that are different than an x-ray characteristic of a material of the baseboard. | 05-08-2014 |
20140128718 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD - A photoacoustic imaging apparatus performs imaging of an optical absorber. The photoacoustic imaging apparatus includes a light source, a detector configured to detect an acoustic wave generated from the optical absorber that has absorbed energy of light emitted from the light source, and a signal processing unit configured to form an image of the optical absorber. The signal processing unit stores information indicating whether a rate of change in pressure of the acoustic wave detected by the detector is positive or negative before performing a waveform process on the acoustic wave. | 05-08-2014 |
20140135609 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION USEFUL IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF ABNORMALITIES OF THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT - Disclosed are methods useful for providing information useful in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal abnormalities as well as ingestible devices useful for providing information useful in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal abnormalities. | 05-15-2014 |
20140135610 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - An object information acquisition apparatus comprises an irradiating unit configured to irradiate an object with light; a plurality of detecting units configured to receive an elastic wave generated within the object irradiated with light, and convert the elastic wave to a received signal; a distribution acquiring unit configured to acquire a light intensity distribution within the object irradiated with light; a setting unit configured to select a minimum block unit in which light intensity is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value, using the light intensity distribution; and a generating unit configured to generate object information of the minimum block unit selected by the setting unit, using the received signal. | 05-15-2014 |
20140135611 | ROBOTIZED SYSTEM FOR MOVING A REMOTELY GUIDED TOOL - The subject of the invention is a robotized system of the type including a support onto which is placed an assembly of articulated arms at the end of which is disposed a tool in contact with a determined work surface, the system allowing the displacement of the tool in rotation about the point of contact of the tool with the work surface, in accordance with signals for controlling a module suitable for calculating them as a function of the remote handling of a virtual tool. The system is suitable for moving the point of contact of the tool in translation and this translation is controlled by the module in terms of polar coordinates, so as to have an angular displacement of constituent elements of this same support. The invention is more particularly useful in respect of tele-echography operations. | 05-15-2014 |
20140135612 | Portable Monitoring Devices For Processing Applications and Processing Analysis of Physiological Conditions of a User associated with the Portable Monitoring Device - An activity monitoring device and associated methods for using and interfacing with the activity monitoring device are provided. In one example, the activity monitoring device includes a housing configured for attachment to a body part of a user. Also included ins a display screen attached to the housing and a sensor for capturing physiological conditions of the user. The sensor is disposed along a surface of the housing so that the sensor is proximate to the body part, the body part having at least some exposed skin. The activity monitoring device also includes memory for storing the captured physiological conditions, and a processor for examining the captured physiological conditions. At a particular time, the processor automatically selects an application to execute from a plurality of applications based on characteristics of the captured physiological conditions. | 05-15-2014 |
20140142412 | APPARATUS FOR MEASURING DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANGLES OF PERSON'S NECK - An apparatus is provided that measures a difference between angles of a subject's neck in first and second periods of time. The apparatus includes a radiating section fitted to a head of the subject, an image pickup section, which picks up an image of an irradiation plane including an illuminated point based on the radiating section, and a computer. Based on image groups obtained by the image pickup section, the computer computes coordinates of the averages of illuminated points in the first and second periods, respectively. The computer computes the distance between a base point on the plane and each of a pair of perpendicular lines, which each extend orthogonally to a horizontal line included in the plane and further drawn to pass onto the base point, and extend respectively from points of the coordinates of the two averages. The computer computes the neck-angle difference based on the distances. | 05-22-2014 |
20140142413 | COMPUTER-AIDED DIAGNOSIS METHOD AND APPARATUS - A computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) method includes extracting a lesion feature value of a lesion feature of a lesion from a captured lesion image; receiving additional information; and diagnosing the lesion based on a combination of the extracted lesion feature value and the received additional information. | 05-22-2014 |
20140142414 | OPTICAL ULTRASOUND RECEIVER - An imaging guidewire can include one or more optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) can direct light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound can be sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal can be optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed such as to develop a 2D or 3D image. In an example, the guidewire outer diameter can be small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. To minimize the size of the guidewire, an ultrasound-to-acoustic transducer that is relatively insensitive to the polarization of the optical sensing signal can be used. The ultrasound-to-optical transducer can be manufactured so that it is relatively insensitive to the polarization of the optical sensing signal. | 05-22-2014 |
20140142415 | TONGUE STRENGTH EVALUATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - An apparatus for evaluating the tongue strength of a subject during a sucking event includes an insert positioned within a nipple element to provide an output in response to deformation of the nipple element during a sucking event. The output is at least one of resistive force exerted against the subject's tongue and movement measurement of deformation force exerted on the nipple element during the sucking event. The apparatus is configurable to evaluate nutritive sucking (NS) or non-nutritive sucking (NNS) capabilities of the subject. The insert may be a sensing device, a compliance element, an intermediate device or a combination of these. A coupling device is configured to position the insert relative to the nipple element and/or to receive output from the insert. A method includes evaluating tongue strength of a subject during NS or NNS and using inserts providing increasing levels of resistive force to exercise the subject's tongue. | 05-22-2014 |
20140148679 | Methods and Systems for Determining Tumor Boundary Characteristics - Described herein are methods and systems for determining tumor boundary characteristics. One example method involves (a) receiving imaging data, wherein the imaging data indicates a tumor and one or more tissues that surround the tumor; (b) determining one or more radial segments that extend from the tumor to the one or more surrounding tissues based on the imaging data, wherein the one or more radial segments each comprise one or more respective data points indicating signal intensity; (c) determining one or more respective tumor boundary parameters for each of the one or more radial segments based on at least the one or more respective data points indicating signal intensity; (d) determining a tumor margin based on the one or more determined tumor boundary parameters; and (e) causing a graphical representation of the determined tumor margin to be displayed on a graphical display. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148680 | Laser source unit, control method thereof, photoacoustic image generation apparatus and photoacoustic image generation method - A pulse laser beam is emitted in a desired wavelength sequence using a laser light source unit. A Q switch and a birefringent filter are inserted into an optical resonator including a pair of mirrors and facing each other with a laser rod interposed therebetween. The birefringent filter changes an oscillation wavelength of the optical resonator in association with rotational displacement. The rotation control unit rotates the birefringent filter at a predetermined rotation speed depending on the number of wavelengths included in the wavelength sequence of the pulse laser beam to be emitted. An emission control unit irradiates the laser rod with excitation light, and then turns on the Q switch at a timing when a rotational-displacement-position of the birefringent filter is set to a position corresponding to the wavelength of the pulse laser beam to be emitted, to cause the pulse laser beam to be emitted. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148681 | Photoacoustic image generation apparatus and acoustic wave unit - A pulse laser beam is emitted in a desired wavelength sequence using a laser source unit. A Q switch and a birefringent filter are inserted into an optical resonator including a pair of mirrors and facing each other with a laser rod interposed therebetween. The birefringent filter changes an oscillation wavelength of the optical resonator in association with rotational displacement. A trigger control circuit rotates the birefringent filter at a predetermined rotation speed depending on the number of wavelengths included in the wavelength sequence of the pulse laser beam to be emitted. In addition, the trigger control circuit irradiates the laser rod with excitation light, and turns on the Q switch at a timing when a rotational displacement position of the birefringent filter is set to a position corresponding to the wavelength of the pulse laser beam to be emitted, to cause the pulse laser beam to be emitted. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148682 | Photoacoustic image generation apparatus and acoustic wave unit - Using a laser source unit, pulse laser beams having a plurality of wavelengths is switched and emitted. A Q switch is inserted into an optical resonator including a pair of mirrors which face each other with a laser rod interposed therebetween. A wavelength selection unit includes a plurality of band pass filters having different transmission wavelengths, and selectively inserts the plurality of band pass filters into a light path of the optical resonator. A trigger control circuit controls driving unit that drives the wavelength selection unit so that the band pass filters inserted into the light path of the optical resonator are switched at a predetermined switching speed. In addition, the trigger control circuit causes the laser rod to be irradiated with excitation light from a flash lamp, and then turns on the Q switch at a timing when the wavelength selection unit inserts the band pass filter. | 05-29-2014 |
20140148683 | IMAGE GENERATING APPARATUS, IMAGE GENERATING METHOD, AND PROGRAM - An image generating apparatus of the present invention has a determination unit that sets a target area in a part of an area inside a subject, executes processing to adjust a phase of each detection signal based on a distance from each detection element to a target area and a tentative velocity, and calculate dispersion of intensities of a plurality of detection signals of which phases are adjusted, for a plurality of tentative velocities, and determines a velocity for which dispersion of intensities is minimum, out of the plurality of tentative velocities, as a propagation velocity. | 05-29-2014 |
20140155727 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION DEVICE, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION DEVICE, AND STORAGE MEDIUM STORING PROGRAM THEREFOR - A subject information acquisition device includes an elastic wave receiving unit configured to receive elastic waves generated inside a subject and output a reception signal; and a signal processing unit configured to acquire subject information in an interest region of the subject, on the basis of the reception signal. In measurement states, the elastic wave receiving unit receives elastic waves and outputs reception signals corresponding to the measurement states. The signal processing unit corrects the reception signals by weighting factors based on measurement parameters in the measurement states, and acquires corrected reception signals in the interest region corresponding to the measurement states. The signal processing unit acquires the subject information in the interest region, on the basis of the sum of the corrected reception signals and the sum of the weighting factors. | 06-05-2014 |
20140155728 | CONTROL APPARATUS OPERATIVELY COUPLED WITH MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS AND MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS HAVING THE SAME - The medical imaging apparatus includes a scanner configured to scan the object to image the internal area of the object; a patient table configured to convey the object to the scanner; an imager which is mounted on the scanner and configured to capture an image of the object on the patient table; and a mobile display device configured to display the image of the object captured by the imager. | 06-05-2014 |
20140155729 | DEVICE FOR SENSING HUMAN BODY ABNORMALITY BY STANDING-WAVE RADAR AND METHOD FOR USING SAME - LEDs arranged in a circle, a standing-wave laser module, a board with a computation unit provided thereon, and an LED control unit are disposed inside a case. Illumination light is irradiated outward from the LEDs, and microwaves are transmitted from the standing-wave laser module and the reflected waves are detected. The computation unit combines the transmitted waves and the reflected waves to detect standing waves, and the distance to the body off which the waves are reflected and minute displacements (e.g., pulse and respiration) are detected on the basis of the standing waves. Thus, merely installing the present invention in lieu of existing illumination apparatuses installed in restrooms, bathing rooms, corridors, and the like allows the position of a human body, and the respiratory rate, heart rate, and the like thereof to be detected, and allows sudden changes to the condition of the detected human body to be rapidly detected. | 06-05-2014 |
20140163353 | HANDHELD DEVICE AND METHOD FOR VOLUMETRIC REAL-TIME OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING OF AN OBJECT - The present disclosure relates to a handheld device for optoacoustic imaging of an object and a corresponding method comprising an irradiation unit configured for irradiating the object with electromagnetic radiation, for example light, and a detector unit for detecting acoustic, for example ultrasonic, waves which are generated in the object upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. | 06-12-2014 |
20140171778 | FORCE MEASUREMENT APPARATUS, FORCE MEASUREMENT METHOD, FORCE MEASUREMENT PROGRAM, FORCE MEASUREMENT INTEGRATED ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT, AND MASTER-SLAVE DEVICE - A force measurement apparatus includes a force detection unit that measures a force generated when a forceps is brought into contact with an inside of a body when an operator inserts a forceps or an endoscope into the body and measures a force generated when the forceps acts on a living body from outside the body, a reference information generating unit that generates reference information serving as information of a force acquired by the force detection unit when the forceps is located at a predetermined position, and an individual force calculation unit that individually calculates a force generated when the forceps acts on the living body in the body based on the reference information. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171779 | METHOD FOR DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION TARGETING BASED ON BRAIN CONNECTIVITY - Due to the lack of internal anatomic detail with traditional magnetic resonance imaging, preoperative stereotactic planning for the treatment of tremor usually relies on indirect targeting based on atlas-derived coordinates. To overcome such disadvantages, a method is provided that allows for deep brain stimulation targeting based on brain connectivity. For example, probabilistic tractography-based thalamic segmentation for deep brain stimulator (DBS) targeting is suitable for the treatment of tremor. | 06-19-2014 |
20140171780 | SENSOR SYSTEM WITH PRESSURE APPLICATION - Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to sensors for applying pressure to a patient's tissue. According to certain embodiments, the sensors may include one or more deformable elements that hold the optical components of the sensor against the tissue with an appropriate amount of pressure. In additional embodiments, such sensors may include a rigid one-piece sensor body that incorporates a deformable element to facilitate fine-fitting of the sensor against the tissue. | 06-19-2014 |
20140180055 | ASPIRATING AND REMOVING BIOLOGICAL MATERIAL - The invention generally relates to devices and methods for imaging and aspirating biological material from inside a vessel. In certain embodiments, the invention provides devices that include a body configured to fit within a lumen of a vessel. The body includes an opening. Devices of the invention also include an aspiration channel within the body. The aspiration channel includes a distal end that is connected to the opening. Devices of the invention also include an imaging assembly coupled to the body. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180056 | IMAGING GUIDEWIRE WITH PHOTOACTIVATION CAPABILITIES - A guidewire providing imaging and light for photoactivation of therapeutic agents. Using optical fibers with Bragg gratings, electromagnetic waves are coupled to photoacoustic materials thereby providing acoustic energy for imaging tissues. The reflected acoustic waves can be sensed with photoreflective materials coupled to different optical fibers. Additional optical fibers allow photoactivated therapeutics to be activated in proximity to the imaged tissues. The photoactivated therapeutics may be administered intravenously or with a drug-delivery catheter. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180057 | AORTIC ARTERY MEASURING PROBE, DEVICE AND METHOD OF MEASURING DIAMETER OF AORTIC ARTERY - An aortic artery measuring probe, device and a method of measuring the diameter of the aortic artery are provided. The aortic artery measuring device includes the aortic artery measuring probe and a signal processing module electrically connected to the aortic artery measuring probe. The aortic artery measuring probe includes a flexible substrate and a sensor array disposed thereon, wherein the sensor array includes M×N ultra-wideband sensors. The ultra-wideband sensors is positioned on a subject and the flexible substrate is deformed to a profile conforming to the profile of the subject. The ultra-wideband sensors transmit a radio wave into the subject and then the radio wave is reflected by a tissue interface of the artery wall of the aortic artery to form a reflected signal. The ultra-wideband sensors receive the reflected signal and the signal processing module analyzes the reflected signal to define the diameter of the aortic artery. | 06-26-2014 |
20140187902 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus including a light source, a photoacoustic probe that receives a photoacoustic wave generated at an object irradiated with light, an ultrasound probe that receives an ultrasound wave transmitted to the object and then reflected within the object, and a signal processor that creates a functional image showing functional information within the object on the basis of the photoacoustic wave and creates a morphological image showing morphological information within the object on the basis of the ultrasound wave, the signal processor being configured to divide the functional image into a plurality of regions, perform different image processing for each of the regions, superimpose the processed functional image on the morphological image, and display the resulting image in a display. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187903 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus is used that include a probe; a signal processor that generates a first image based on photoacoustic waves, which are generated from an object irradiated with light and which are received by the probe, and that generates a second image based on ultrasound waves, which are received by the probe and then transmitted to the object and reflected off the object; a controller that displays the first image and the second image on a display unit; a first corrector that corrects brightness of the first image; and a second corrector that corrects brightness of the second image independently from the first corrector. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187904 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING WHETHER ARTERIAL TISSUE COMPRISES ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE - Provided herein are methods and systems to determine at least one mechanical property of a tissue sample and, based upon the determined at least one mechanical property, whether the tissue sample comprises atherosclerotic plaque. The method comprises generating a shear wave in an arterial tissue sample by applying an acoustic impulse thereto; measuring propagation of the shear wave via an optical coherence elastography apparatus; determining at least one mechanical property of the arterial tissue sample based on the propagation of the shear wave; and comparing the at least one mechanical property of the arterial tissue sample to a reference data set to determine whether the arterial tissue sample comprises atherosclerotic plaque. A hybrid optical coherence tomography imaging/acoustic radiation force impulse system is disclosed. | 07-03-2014 |
20140194722 | LESION DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS AND METHOD - A lesion diagnosis apparatus and method for diagnosing images in real time to notify a user that a lesion is detected and providing the user with information about the detected lesion, thereby enhancing accuracy and convenience in a diagnosis. The lesion diagnosis apparatus includes a diagnoser configured to diagnose lesions in images received from a probe; and a guide information provider configured to notify a user that a lesion is detected and to provide guide information, when the lesion is detected. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194723 | MULTI-LAYER COATING FOR OPTOACOUSTIC PROBE - Disclosed is an optoacoustic probe with a coated transducer assembly. The probe includes a transducer assembly with a multi-layer coating on the active end thereof. The multi-layer coating includes a layer of parylene and at least two layers of metal. In an embodiment, the multi-layer coating includes a layer of nickel, at least one layer of parylene, and a layer of gold. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194724 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASURING APPARATUS - A photoacoustic measuring apparatus includes a light source, a movable holding unit which holds an object, a light diffusing unit which fixes the distance between the light diffusing unit and the holding unit and diffuses light incident from the light source, and an acoustic wave obtaining unit which obtains an acoustic wave generated from the object by the light emitted via the holding unit and the light diffusing unit. | 07-10-2014 |
20140194725 | BRAIN DISEASE DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM - An object of the present invention is to perform a more accurate and detailed diagnosis of a brain disease. | 07-10-2014 |
20140200433 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING MALIGNANT TUMOR - An apparatus for estimating a malignant tumor includes: a segmentor configured to segment a first medical image of an object into a first ROI including a mass and a second medical image of the object into a second ROI including a mass; an interest region determiner configured to acquire a first matched ROI and a second matched ROI, which is matched to the first matched ROI based on location information of the first ROI and the second ROI, respectively; a feature extractor configured to extract a similar feature indicating a degree of similarity between the first matched ROI and the second matched ROI, from the first matched ROI and the second matched ROI; and a classifier configured to generate malignant tumor information indicating whether the mass included in the first matched ROI and the second matched ROI is the malignant tumor, based on the extracted similar feature. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200434 | VIBRATIONAL PHOTOACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY USING RAMAN LASER - A method of noninvasively imaging tissue within a body includes irradiating the tissue using an imaging laser including a Raman-based laser tuner, the radiation including a plurality of laser pulses, each having energy greater than 100 mJ; receiving an acoustic signal generated by vibrational energy in the tissue, wherein the vibrational energy is a result of selective overtone excitation of molecules in the tissue by the radiation; and automatically converting the acoustic signal to an image representative of the tissue using a processor. An imaging system includes an imaging laser configured to irradiate tissue with a plurality of laser pulses using a Raman-based laser tuner. An ultrasonic transducer receives an acoustic signal generated by vibrational energy in the tissue due to overtone excitation by the radiation. A processor is configured to automatically produce an image representative of the tissue using the received acoustic signal. | 07-17-2014 |
20140206978 | PROBE WITH OPTOACOUSTIC ISOLATOR - An optoacoustic probe including an ultrasound transducer array, an acoustic lens and a light path separated from the transducer array by an isolator to mitigate light energy from the light path from reaching the transducer array. The isolator being formed from a mixture including a flexible carrier, a coloring and between 10% and 80% by volume micro-bubbles. The isolator mixture being adapted to both absorb light energy and the optoacoustic response to light energy. In an embodiment, an optoacoustic probe also comprises an optical window and/or a diffuser, and the isolator also separating the transducer array from these components. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206979 | Plenoptic Otoscope - A plenoptic otoscope enables three-dimensional and/or spectral imaging of the inside of the ear to assist in improved diagnosis of inflammations and infections. The plenoptic otoscope includes a primary imaging system and a plenoptic sensor. The primary imaging system includes an otoscope objective and relay optics, which cooperate to form an image of an inside of an ear at an intermediate image plane. The plenoptic sensor includes a microimaging array positioned at the intermediate image plane and a sensor array positioned at a conjugate of the pupil plane. An optional filter module may be positioned at the pupil plane or one of its conjugates to facilitate three-dimensional and/or spectral imaging. | 07-24-2014 |
20140206980 | DEEP TISSUE FLOWMETRY USING DIFFUSE SPECKLE CONTRAST ANALYSIS - Blood flow rates can be calculated using diffuse speckle contrast analysis in spatial and time domains. In the spatial domain analysis, a multi-pixel image sensor can be used to detect a spatial distribution of speckles in a sample caused by diffusion of light from a coherent light source that is blurred due to the movement of scatterers within the sample (e.g., red blood cells moving within a tissue sample). Statistical analysis of the spatial distribution can be used to calculate blood flow. In the time domain analysis, a slow counter can be used to obtain time-series fluctuations in light intensity in a sample caused by diffusion of light in the sample that is smoothened due to the movement of scatterers. Statistical analysis of the time-series data can be used to calculate blood flow. | 07-24-2014 |
20140213884 | BIOLOGICAL SIGNAL MEASURING SYSTEM AND BIOLOGICAL SIGNAL MEASURING APPARATUS - A biological signal measuring system includes: a light emitter emitting a first light beam and a second light beam; a light receiver outputting first and second signals in accordance with light intensities of the first and second light beams that have been passed through or reflected from a living tissue of a subject; a first calculating section acquiring a light attenuation of the first and second light beams based on the first and second signals; a second calculating section acquiring a blood-derived light attenuation based on the light attenuation of the first and second light beams; a third calculating section identifying a blood fill time for filling the living tissue, based on a temporal change of the blood-derived light attenuation associated with pressurization of the living tissue; and an outputting section outputting the identified blood fill time. | 07-31-2014 |
20140221810 | HANDHELD DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TOMOGRAPHIC OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGING OF AN OBJECT - The present disclosure relates to a handheld device and an according method for optoacoustic imaging of an object, comprising an irradiation unit for irradiating the object with electromagnetic radiation, for example, light, and a detector unit for detecting acoustic, for example, ultrasonic, waves generated in the object upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation, wherein the detector unit comprises an array of detector elements. | 08-07-2014 |
20140221811 | RADIAL ACCESS METHODS AND APPARATUS - Radial access methods and apparatus are described for facilitating the securement of the patient's limb for a radial procedure as well as to accommodate for the re-positioning of the patient's body. A radial table assembly may generally comprise a platform defining a surface which is sized to support the limb of the patient, an interface portion attached at a distal end of the platform, wherein the interface portion is radio-lucent and extends at a distance from the platform, and a cradle member rotatably connected to the platform at a location proximal to the interface portion. In other variations, the interface portion is reconfigurable relative to the platform such that an angled edge is reversible relative to the platform. | 08-07-2014 |
20140221812 | Medical Imaging Apparatus with a Movement Detection Unit and a Method for Detecting Patient Movement - A medical imaging apparatus includes a detector unit, a patient-receiving region enclosed by the detector unit in a cylindrical manner, and a movement detection unit. The movement detection unit has at least one acceleration sensor unit to detect movement of a patient. the at least one acceleration sensor unit has a fastening element to fasten the at least one acceleration sensor unit to a subregion of the patient relevant to a medical imaging examination. | 08-07-2014 |
20140221813 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR VIRTUAL STAINING - The disclosure herein provides methods, systems, and devices for virtually staining biological tissue for enhanced visualization without use of an actual dye or tag by detecting how each pixel of an unstained tissue image changes in waveform after staining with a certain dye(s) and/or tag(s) or other transformation under a certain electromagnetic radiation source, developing a virtual staining transform based on such detection, and applying such virtual staining transform to an unstained biological tissue to virtually stain the tissue. | 08-07-2014 |
20140235993 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR - An object information acquiring apparatus includes a probe configured to detect a photoacoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light, a signal collector configured to generate a first detection signal from the photoacoustic wave, a signal processor configured to generate, from the first detection signal, a second detection signal in which a component having a phase inverted from the phase of a component deriving from the photoacoustic wave is reduced, by using a differential signal of an impulse response of the probe, and an image generator configured to generate image data on the inside of the object using the second detection signal. | 08-21-2014 |
20140243647 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR NEUROLOGICAL STATUS EVALUATION USING ELECTROMAGNETIC SIGNALS - In one embodiment, a neurological status evaluation apparatus includes a signal generator configured to generate an electromagnetic signal at one or more frequencies, a transmitting antenna coupled to the signal generator and configure to transmit the electromagnetic signal, and a receiving antenna positioned proximate to the transmitting antenna such that an evaluation space is defined between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna. The biological tissue under evaluation does not contact the transmitting antenna or the receiving antenna. The receiving antenna receives a modulated electromagnetic signal after propagating through the biological tissue under evaluation. The neurological status evaluation apparatus further includes a spectrum analyzer coupled to the receiving antenna, wherein the spectrum analyzer receives and samples the modulated electromagnetic signal. A computing device is coupled to the spectrum analyzer, calculates an evaluation, and provides a neurological status indicator of the biological tissue under evaluation based on the evaluation parameter. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243648 | MARKER WITH LIGHT EMITTING AREA FOR USE IN DETERMINING VITAL SIGN INFORMATION - The present invention relates to a system for determining vital sign information of a subject and a marker for use in determining vital sign information of a subject. An embodiment of a marker comprises a marker area that emits light towards a skin of the subject for determining vital sign information from the reflected light, and attachment element that attaches the marker to the subject. An embodiment of a system further comprises a detection unit that detects radiation emitted by the marker towards a skin of the subject and reflected from the skin of the subject, and an analysis unit that determines the vital sign information of the subject from the detected radiation reflected from the skin of the subject. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243649 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING VITAL SIGN INFORMATION FROM A SUBJECT - An apparatus and a method for determining vital sign information from a subject are disclosed. The proposed apparatus comprises a detection unit for detecting radiation from a field of view and for determining characteristic parameter including vital sign information of the subject from different areas of the field of view, a frequency analysis unit for determining a spectral parameter of the characteristic parameter derived from the different areas, a selection unit for selecting at least one of the areas of the field of view on the basis of the spectral parameter, and a calculation unit for calculating the vital sign information on the basis of the characteristic parameter from the at least one selected area. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243650 | REPRESENTATIVE EMULATION OF ORGAN BEHAVIOR - A method for emulating prerecorded images may comprise acquiring at least one organ timing signal reading representing an activity state of an organ with at least one organ timing signal detector, acquiring a plurality of images with a medical imaging system, associating each of the plurality of images with an organ timing signal reading, removing any of the organ timing signal readings and associated images that are not representative of a normal organ configuration, and outputting a sequence of the representative images for a display. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243651 | HEALTH DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM USING IMAGE INFORMATION - A health diagnosis system comprises information input unit for receiving basic information and image information for user's body part; recognition unit for recognizing the body part as object by auto search based on image information received by input unit; analysis unit drawing diagnosis results by analyzing image information recognized by the said recognition unit according to checkup elements for each body part, comparing and analyzing the analyzed information and standard information recorded in pathological information database unit; pathological information database unit for storing standard information which can diagnose names and severities of diseases by checkup elements for each body part for the analysis unit to draw the diagnosis results by comparing and analyzing the analyzed information and the standard information; and diagnosis results database unit for recording the image information received by the information input unit for user's body parts and diagnosis results drawn by the said analysis unit. | 08-28-2014 |
20140257077 | IMAGING DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - The invention generally relates to imaging devices and methods of use thereof. Aspects of the invention provide an imaging device that includes a core wire and more than 32 optical fibers coupled to the core wire. | 09-11-2014 |
20140257078 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR APPLYING SCALING LAWS OF TREE STRUCTURES - Methods are provided for determining flow resistance within at least a portion of a vessel, whereby at least a partial biological tree image is obtained and resistance is calculated therefrom based upon at least the length of a defined vessel portion and a diameter of a stem vessel at a location proximal to a vessel crown. Methods are also provided for determining vessel volume, whereby at least a partial biological tree image is obtained and cumulative crown volume is calculated based on at least the diameter and length of the stem segment. | 09-11-2014 |
20140257079 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING PHOTOACOUSTIC SIGNAL - To obtain an absorption distribution from a detected signal with a practical device. Light is applied to a subject, and a photoacoustic signal generated in the subjectA photoacoustic is detected. From the detected photoacoustic signal, a light differential waveform, which is a differential waveform of a temporal waveform of the light applied to the subject, is deconvolved. As a result of this deconvolution, an absorption distribution is obtained. | 09-11-2014 |
20140275938 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING REPETITIVE AIRFLOW REDUCTIONS - Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and method for determining a repetitive airflow reduction of an individual. The system may include a photoplethysmogram (PPG) detection module configured to detect a PPG signal of a patient. The PPG signal may include a pulsatile AC component superimposed on a DC baseline. The system may also include a PPG baseline analysis module configured to analyze the DC baseline of the PPG signal to detect one or more threshold crossings with respect to an acceptable threshold correlated to normal breathing. The system may also include a repetitive airflow reduction determination module configured to determine an occurrence of the repetitive airflow reduction through an analysis of the one or more threshold crossings. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275939 | Device and Method for Measuring Radiation Exposure - Garments and methods for monitoring radiation exposure and cumulative radiation exposure in individuals undergoing repeated exposure to ionizing radiation are disclosed. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275940 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTRA-OPERATIVE LEG POSITION MEASUREMENT - Systems, methods and computer program products are disclosed for medical navigational guidance systems. In one example, intra-operative leg position measurements are provided during hip arthroplasty. An optical sensor couples to a pelvis and a target couples to a femur in alignment with the sensor, which provides positional signals to a processing unit for determining a relative position of the sensor and target. The processing unit uses a baseline measurement of leg position and a map to calculate and display position measurements in real time. The map is defined through a registration range-of-motion procedure where instructions are presented to move the femur in at least two planes to generate signals to calculate the map. Leg position may be leg length, offset or anterior/posterior position. The map is used to present the leg position measurements in an anatomical, rather than a sensor, coordinate frame. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275941 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING TECHNIQUE WITH NOISE REDUCTION - Various methods and systems for photoacoustic patient monitoring are provided. A photoacoustic system includes a light emitting component that emits one or more wavelengths of light into an interrogation region of a patient and an acoustic detector that detects acoustic energy generated by the interrogation region of the patient in response to the emitted light. The system also includes an optical detector that detects the emitted light and provides a signal that is used as an input to remove noise from the signal generated by the acoustic detector. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275942 | Imaging Device for Biomedical Use - An imaging system that includes a light source configured to project a beam of light within a determined range of wavelengths onto an illumination area of a patient's skin and a detector configured to detect acoustic waves within a scan area of the patient's skin without contacting the patient's skin, wherein the scan area does not overlap the illumination area. In certain embodiments, the beam of light is a series of pulses of coherent light and the detector is an interferometer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275943 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MONITORING TECHNIQUE - Various methods and systems for photoacoustic patient monitoring are provided. A photoacoustic system includes a light emitting component that emits one or more wavelengths of light into an interrogation region of a patient and an acoustic detector that detects acoustic energy generated by the interrogation region of the patient in response to the emitted light. The system may be implemented to receive photoacoustic waves from a local vein and artery and determine hemodynamic parameters based on a summed indicator dilution curve representative of both arterial and venous indicator dilution. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275944 | HANDHELD ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD-BASED BIO-SENSING AND BIO-IMAGING SYSTEM - A handheld electromagnetic field-based bio-sensing and bio-imaging system, for use with a biological object, includes a handheld control unit, a handheld probe, connected to the control unit, that may manipulated around a biological object as it generates and receives an electromagnetic field, and a tracking unit that tracks the position of the handheld probe. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275945 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSESSING IMAGE QUALITY IN MODELING OF PATIENT ANATOMIC OR BLOOD FLOW CHARACTERISTICS - Systems and methods are disclosed for assessing the quality of medical images of at least a portion of a patient's anatomy, using a computer system. One method includes receiving one or more images of at least a portion of the patient's anatomy; determining, using a processor of the computer system, one or more image properties of the received images; performing, using a processor of the computer system, anatomic localization or modeling of at least a portion of the patient's anatomy based on the received images; obtaining an identification of one or more image characteristics associated with an anatomic feature of the patient's anatomy based on the anatomic localization or modeling; and calculating, using a processor of the computer system, an image quality score based on the one or more image properties and the one or more image characteristics. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275946 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSESSING IMAGE QUALITY IN MODELING OF PATIENT ANATOMIC OR BLOOD FLOW CHARACTERISTICS - Systems and methods are disclosed for assessing the quality of medical images of at least a portion of a patient's anatomy, using a computer system. One method includes receiving one or more images of at least a portion of the patient's anatomy; determining, using a processor of the computer system, one or more image properties of the received images; performing, using a processor of the computer system, anatomic localization or modeling of at least a portion of the patient's anatomy based on the received images; obtaining an identification of one or more image characteristics associated with an anatomic feature of the patient's anatomy based on the anatomic localization or modeling; and calculating, using a processor of the computer system, an image quality score based on the one or more image properties and the one or more image characteristics. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275947 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSESSING IMAGE QUALITY IN MODELING OF PATIENT ANATOMIC OR BLOOD FLOW CHARACTERISTICS - Systems and methods are disclosed for assessing the quality of medical images of at least a portion of a patient's anatomy, using a computer system. One method includes receiving one or more images of at least a portion of the patient's anatomy; determining, using a processor of the computer system, one or more image properties of the received images; performing, using a processor of the computer system, anatomic localization or modeling of at least a portion of the patient's anatomy based on the received images; obtaining an identification of one or more image characteristics associated with an anatomic feature of the patient's anatomy based on the anatomic localization or modeling; and calculating, using a processor of the computer system, an image quality score based on the one or more image properties and the one or more image characteristics. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275948 | INFORMATION TERMINAL DEVICE - An information terminal device includes an imaging unit which captures a face image of a user, a main memory which extracts and stores an eyeball area and an under eye region from the face image, and a control unit which detects an amount of color change in a pupil and iris color at a current point in time relative to the pupil and iris color in the eyeball area at a past point in time after factoring in an amount of color change from face skin color in the entire face image that includes the eyeball area and the undereye region captured by the imaging unit at the current point in time compared to the entire face image that includes the eyeball area and the under eye region captured at a past point in time. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275949 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION DETECTION APPARATUS - A biological information detection apparatus includes a detection unit which has a light receiving unit receiving light from a subject, a light transmitting member which is provided on a housing surface side in contact with the subject of the biological information detection apparatus, transmits light from the subject, and has a convex portion in contact with the subject to give a pressing force when measuring biological information of the subject, and a pressing force suppression unit which is disposed in periphery of the convex portion on or above the housing surface and suppresses the pressing force given to the subject by the convex portion. A groove portion is provided between the convex portion of the light transmitting member and the pressing force suppression unit. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275950 | IMAGING GUIDEWIRE WITH PRESSURE SENSING - An intravascular element, for example a guidewire, configured for pressure measurements and imaging within a patient. In an embodiment, the invention uses a system of optical fibers and photoabsorptive and/or photoreflective materials to make intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) measurements. In an embodiment, the invention uses microfabricated pressure sensors to measure fluidic pressure adjacent to the element, such as the pressure of the blood within the vasculature. In a clinical setting, the invention can provide a surgeon with critical information about pressure, tissue composition, and luminal area while also reducing the time for procedures. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275951 | GUIDEWIRE CONCIERGE - The invention provides a method of intravascular intervention that includes inserting a catheter comprising an extended body into a lumen within tissue of a patient, advancing the catheter to a treatment site, vibrating a proximal end of the catheter with a mechanical vibrator, and treating the treatment site while a distal end of the catheter is vibrating. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275952 | TREATMENT PLANNING FOR LUNG VOLUME REDUCTION PROCEDURES - Methods and systems for planning a bronchoscopic lung volume reduction procedure, such as placement of a one-way valve or biosealant or energy delivery in a patient's lungs. The system may include a processor and programming operable on the processor for planning the lung volume reduction procedure. Planning the lung volume reduction procedure by the processor may include receiving patient volumetric images, analyzing the images to identify the lobes and airway tree of the lungs, displaying a three dimensional model of the lungs, generating and displaying a suggested treatment volume on the three dimensional model, receiving a selected treatment volume from a user, generating and displaying a suggested treatment location within the airway tree, receiving a selected treatment location within the airway tree from the user, receiving a selected treatment modality from the user, and displaying a treatment plan. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275953 | MOBILE X-RAY IMAGING SYSTEM - An imaging system includes a first portion and a second portion that translates and/or rotates with respect to the first portion. A first locking mechanism may prevent the second portion from translating with respect to the first portion, such as during transport of the system. A second locking mechanism may prevent the second portion from rotating with respect to the first portion, such as during transport and/or during an imaging scan. Further embodiments include a cable management system between the first and second portions, a spherically-shaped surface of a support gimbal and a user interface device for an imaging system. | 09-18-2014 |
20140275954 | RADIOGRAPHY SYSTEM - This radiography system has a switching processing unit that switches the device that controls a radiation source and a radiography device to a control device or a portable apparatus. In a case where penetrative imaging has started, the switching processing unit switches the device that controls the radiation source and the radiography device from the control device to the portable apparatus. | 09-18-2014 |
20140288408 | PRESSURE REGULATING SYRINGE AND METHOD THEREFOR - A pressure regulating syringe comprises a barrel assembly terminating with a tubular tip positionable in fluid communication with a fluid chamber, a plunger that is manually and axially displaceable within a barrel of the barrel assembly, a pressure sensor mounted onto the plunger adjacent to its distal end, for generating one or more electrical signals representative of a change in pressure within the fluid chamber, circuitry housed within the plunger for processing the generated signals, and a display mounted on the plunger for displaying an output indicative of the processed signals. The output is changeable upon axial displacement of the plunger when the tubular tip is positioned in fluid communication with the fluid chamber, which is for example a cuff surrounding a medical tube. Fluid is delivered by manually manipulating a fluid delivery element in response to the displayed output until a desired fluid delivery operation is performed. | 09-25-2014 |
20140296689 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING SAME - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus including a probe having a plurality of receiving elements that are arrayed along a first direction and receive an acoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light from a light source and converting the acoustic wave into an electrical signal, a scanner that moves the probe in the first direction, a controller, and a generator that generates image data of inside of the object based on the electrical signal. The controller controls the apparatus such that light is emitted each time the probe is moved by a distance that is either (n+1/k) times or (n−1/k) times an array pitch between the receiving elements, where n is an integer of 1 or more and k is an integer of 2 or more. | 10-02-2014 |
20140296690 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - An object information acquiring apparatus comprises a light source; an acoustic detecting unit configured to detect an acoustic wave generated from an object to which light from the light source is irradiated; and a processing unit configured to acquire characteristic information on the inside of the object based on the acoustic wave and correct the characteristic information using an absorption coefficient of a background region inside the object. | 10-02-2014 |
20140296691 | STAGE DETERMINATION SUPPORT SYSTEM - A stage determination support system according to an embodiment includes devices. The storage device stores a plurality of kinds of functional images of a subject. The first determination device determines a degree of each of a plurality of kinds of analysis indices relating to a disease, based on at least the functional images among functional images and the morphological images. The second determination device determines, based on each of determination results and a predetermined stage determination rule, a stage corresponding to the determination result with respect to each of the analysis indices. The calculation device calculates, with respect to each of the stages, a value indicative of a possibility that the disease corresponds to the stage, based on each of determination results. | 10-02-2014 |
20140296692 | MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS AND BED FOR MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS - Provided is a medical imaging apparatus that, while preventing damage of connector pins, can simultaneously connect electric connectors when a bed is mechanically docked with an apparatus main body. One coupling mechanism either on an apparatus main body side or on a bed side includes a coupling plate, and the other coupling mechanism includes a holding member that holds a coupling plate that, during coupling, respectively contacts both side surfaces of the coupling plate at two or more points, and sandwiches and holds the coupling plate from both sides. A first electric connector is mounted on the coupling plate, a second electric connector is mounted on the holding member, and an electric connector coupling mechanism that couples the first and second electric connectors is mounted on at least one of the coupling plate and the holding member in a state where the coupling plate is held by the holding member. | 10-02-2014 |
20140303473 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - An object information acquiring apparatus, comprises an irradiation unit configured to irradiate light from a light source onto a breast, which is an object; a detection unit configured to detect a signal propagating from the breast by the light irradiated from the irradiation unit; a calculation unit configured to calculate an optical characteristic inside the breast based on the signal detected by the detection unit, wherein the irradiation unit configured to irradiate the light onto the breast in a direction away from a chest wall located at the base of the breast. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303474 | Device to Aid in Diagnosing Infiltration or Extravasation in Animalia Tissue - An aid to diagnosing at least one of infiltration and extravasation in Animalia tissue includes an optics bench and a controller. The optics bench includes a light emitting diode and a photodiode. The light emitting diode is configured to emit a first light signal, and the photodiode is configured to detect a second light signal. The second light signal includes a portion of the first light signal that is at least one of reflected, scattered and redirected from the Animalia tissue. The controller includes a processor, volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory stores a sequence of values that correspond to the second light signal detected by the photodiode. The processor and volatile memory analyze the sequence of values according to an algorithm. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303475 | Device to Aid in Diagnosing Infiltration or Extravasation in Animalia Tissue - An aid to diagnosing at least one of infiltration and extravasation in Animalia tissue includes an optics bench and a controller. The optics bench includes a light emitting diode and a photodiode. The light emitting diode is configured to emit a first light signal, and the photodiode is configured to detect a second light signal. The second light signal includes a portion of the first light signal that is at least one of reflected, scattered and redirected from the Animalia tissue. The controller includes a processor, volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory stores a sequence of values that correspond to the second light signal detected by the photodiode. The processor and volatile memory analyze the sequence of values according to an algorithm. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303476 | Photoacoustic Imaging Using A Versatile Acoustic Lens - To image various soft tissues in the body using pulsed laser optical excitation delivered through a multi-mode optical fiber to create photoacoustic impulses, and then image the generated photoacoustic impulses with an acoustic detector array, a probe includes either a mirror and an acoustic lens or a special acoustic lens of variable focal length and magnification that can operate in a liquid environment that is aberration-corrected to a sufficient degree that high resolution images can be obtained with lateral as well as depth resolution. | 10-09-2014 |
20140303477 | MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS, BED FOR MEDICAL IMAGING APPARATUS, AND PEDAL UNIT - Realized is a pedal mechanism that does not lock and does not provide an operation feeling unless operated in a determined order. The pedal mechanism has first and second pedals | 10-09-2014 |
20140309515 | PHOTOACOUSTIC WAVE MEASUREMENT DEVICE, METHOD, AND RECORDING MEDIUM - A photoacoustic wave measurement device receives electric signals from a photoacoustic wave measurement instrument including a light output unit for outputting light, and a plurality of photoacoustic wave detection units each for receiving a photoacoustic wave generated by the light in a measurement object, and converting the photoacoustic wave into the electric signal. The photoacoustic wave measurement device includes a time deviation determination unit that determines whether time deviations among the electric signals output from the respective photoacoustic wave detection units are in a predetermined range; and a position measurement unit that measures a position of a photoacoustic wave generation part of the measurement object which generates the photoacoustic wave if the time deviation determination unit determines that the time deviations among the electric signals are in the predetermined range. | 10-16-2014 |
20140309516 | PHOTOACOUSTIC WAVE MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENT - A photoacoustic wave measurement instrument include a light output unit and at least three photoacoustic wave detection units. The light output unit outputs light. The at least three photoacoustic wave detection units respectively receive photoacoustic waves generated by the light in a measurement object, and convert the photoacoustic wave into electric signals. At least two of the photoacoustic wave detection units have extension directions parallel with or intersecting with each other. At least one of the photoacoustic wave detection units other than the at least two photoacoustic wave detection units has an extension direction intersecting with the extension directions of the at least two photoacoustic wave detection units. | 10-16-2014 |
20140316234 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ACCURATE SURFACE MATCHING OF ANATOMY USING A PREDEFINED REGISTRATION PATH - A method includes scanning a bodily tissue of a patient with an imaging device and prior to an interventional procedure to produce an image of a surface of an organ. At least a portion of a registration path associated with the organ is defined. The method further includes surgically exposing the organ and placing a probing instrument in contact with the organ at a starting point associated with the registration path and moving the probing instrument substantially along the registration path to define a registration surface of the organ. The method further includes mapping the registration surface of the organ to the image of the surface of the organ based at least in part on the registration path. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316235 | SKIN IMAGING AND APPLICATIONS - The availability of high quality imagers on smartphones and other portable devices facilitates creation of a large, crowd-sourced, image reference library that depicts skin rashes and other dermatological conditions. Some of the images are uploaded with, or later annotated with, associated diagnoses or other information (e.g., “this rash went away when I stopped drinking milk”). A user uploads a new image of an unknown skin condition to the library. Image analysis techniques are employed to identify salient similarities between features of the uploaded image, and features of images in this reference library. Given the large dataset, statistically relevant correlations emerge that identify to the user certain diagnoses that may be considered, other diagnoses that may likely be ruled-out, and/or anecdotal information about similar skin conditions from other users. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316236 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus comprises an acoustic wave probe that receives an acoustic wave arriving from an interior of an object; a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information which is information on a position of the object; and a notification unit that notifies an operator of a change in the position of the object, based on the position information. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316237 | METHOD FOR CHARACTERISING A MECHANICAL PROPERTY OF A MATERIAL - A method for characterising a mechanical property of a material. The method comprises the steps of providing the material having a deformable portion and providing a device having an optical element that is arranged to detect electromagnetic radiation. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316238 | Use of Plenoptic Otoscope Data for Aiding Medical Diagnosis - A plenoptic otoscope captures images used in making a medical diagnosis. For example, the plenoptic data can be processed to produce enhanced imagery of the ear interior, and this enhanced imagery can be used in making a medical diagnosis. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316239 | LASER LIGHT SOURCE UNIT, METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME, AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE GENERATION DEVICE - Disclosed is a laser light source unit capable of emitting pulse laser light with desired emission intensity even at different wavelengths. When emitting pulse laser light having a wavelength of 750 nm, excitation energy of a flash lamp decreases compared to when emitting pulse laser light having a wavelength of 800 nm. Specifically, the charging time of a capacitor of a pulse generation circuit decreases compared to when emitting pulse laser light having a wavelength of 800 nm. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316240 | SUBJECT-INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - The present invention relates to a subject-information acquisition apparatus that receives elastic waves propagating in a subject and that acquires characteristic information of the subject, the apparatus comprising a receiver including an element that receives the elastic waves and converts the elastic waves to an electrical signal; a region designating unit that designates a region of the subject in which the characteristics information is to be acquired; a scanning unit that scans the subject with the receiver on the basis of the region; a presenting unit; and a control unit that acquires information about the time that the receiver scans the region or information about the sum of the region scanning time and an additional time and that causes the presenting unit to present the acquired time information. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316241 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING COMPOSITION IN A SIDESTREAM SYSTEM USING A PUMP AND DETECTOR WITH CONTROL ELECTRONICS THAT ARE TIGHTLY INTEGRATED - A system and method are configured to monitor composition of a flow of breathable gas being provided to a subject. The monitoring is accomplished in a sidestream configuration in which control of a pump and a detector are implemented in a tightly integrated controller. | 10-23-2014 |
20140316242 | QUANTIFIED INJURY DIAGNOSTICS - A new and/or novel image analysis technique for quantitative assessment of motion-based testing for injury in a patient using universally available and affordable devices and techniques is provided and disclosed. A video of a test being performed can be processed to track the motion of markers and/or bodily landmarks in two or more dimensions to quantitatively describe motion, thereby removing the subjective aspects typically associated with motion-based testing. In an example, the pivot shift test is a commonly used test for evaluating rotational instability of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)—deficient knee. The pivot shift test's subjective grading scale can be quantified and refined using image analysis techniques. | 10-23-2014 |
20140323844 | CIRCUIT ARCHITECTURE FOR PHOTODIODES - An electrical circuit includes a photodiode that receives a light signal from a light source and generates a photocurrent signal, a trans-impedance amplifier that amplifies the photocurrent signal and generates a low noise signal, and a high pass filter that converts the low noise signal into an alternating current (AC) signal having a positive amplitude, a negative amplitude, and a zero cross-over point between the positive amplitude and the negative amplitude. The electrical circuit also includes a positive integrating amplifier that receives the positive amplitude of the AC signal and generates a positive integrated value over an integration period, and a negative integrating amplifier that receives the negative amplitude of the AC signal and generates a negative integrated value over the integration period. The electrical circuit further includes at least one analog-to-digital converter that receives the positive and negative integrated values. | 10-30-2014 |
20140323845 | AUTOMATED 3-D ORTHOPEDIC ASSESSMENTS - Systems, methods, computer programs, and circuits can perform automated spinal assessments using a 3-D model and a 3-D patient image data set of the spine which do not rely on vertebral symmetry. | 10-30-2014 |
20140323846 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING HEMODYNAMIC STATUS THROUGH A BLOOD PRESSURE RELATED INDEX - A system for determining a hemodynamic status of an individual may include a photoplethysmography (PPG) sub-system configured to detect a PPG signal and a response triggering module configured to analyze the PPG signal and output one or more response triggers based on a changing feature of the PPG signal within a time window. Each of the one or more response triggers may relate to an instruction to initiate detection of at least one physiological characteristic of the individual. A blood pressure (BP) variability index determination module is configured to determine a BP variability index related to a hemodynamic status of the individual based on a frequency or pattern of the one or more response triggers. | 10-30-2014 |
20140330105 | Method for Detecting Body Parameters - A biometric sensor includes a prosthesis for at least one joint having one or more biometric transceivers. The one or more biometric transceivers are capable of transmitting at least one energy wave into a procedure area, quantitatively assessing a behavior of the at least one energy wave, and assessing particulate matter using the at least one energy wave. | 11-06-2014 |
20140343393 | SENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PHYSIOLOGY MEASUREMENTS - A sensing system for physiology measurements comprises a transmission end including a measuring signal generating module having at least one overshoot and undershoot wave generating circuits and a transmitting antenna module having at least one transmitting antenna; a receiving end having a plurality of receiving antennae with each receiving antenna receiving a reflected signal reflected by a target object; and a plurality of signal analyzing modules to generate a plurality of object active state signals by analyzing the reflected signal from each receiving antenna and transmit the plurality of object active state signals to a digital signal processor. Wherein each overshoot and undershoot wave generating circuit generates a measuring signal with overshoot and undershoot waves according to an inputted Pulse Width Modulation signal, and each transmitting antenna emits the measuring signal to the target object. | 11-20-2014 |
20140343394 | PROBE - An acoustic wave detector that detects an acoustic wave from a subject, an optical fiber that guides light emitted from a light source to a probe body, and a light guide member that guides light from a light entrance end, which is optically coupled to the optical fiber, to a light exit end, which is located in the vicinity of the acoustic wave detector, are provided. The light guide member is secured in the probe body with a securing material provided at least partially around the light guide member. The conditional expression below is satisfied: | 11-20-2014 |
20140350378 | Method for Classifying Tissue Response to Cancer Treatment Using Photoacoustics Signal Analysis - A method for monitoring tissue response to cancer treatment by analyzing photoacoustic signals is provided. The method is capable of classifying different levels of tumor response for a tumor under treatment. Photoacoustic signals are obtained by scanning a tumor before and after treatment in given time intervals. Classification of the tumor response is achieved based on statistical features extracted from the photoacoustic signals. The similarities and dissimilarities between the statistical features are used to identify and classify the changes in tissue as the tumor responds to the treatment. To visualize the similarities and dissimilarities, a computed similarity metric is mapped to a multidimensional space, such as a two- or three-dimensional space. In this produced tissue response map, each point represents the tumor in a particular condition. Points that are farther apart in the tissue response map indicate more changes in tumor tissue due to changing condition and vise versa. | 11-27-2014 |
20140350379 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMAGING A PATIENT USER'S BODY PART - A system and method for imaging a patient user's body part is disclosed. The system may include a patient user body part imaging non-transitory storage media to image a patient user body part. The method may include selecting an optical imaging device to image the patient user's body part, acquiring one or more data sets with the optical imaging device, the acquiring is performed with focus at multiple axial positions and exposure control or deliberate focus at specified image locations and exposure control, registering the acquired data sets, performing image processing on the acquired data sets and recombining good data from the image processed data sets into a single image of the patient user's body part. | 11-27-2014 |
20140357976 | MENTAL STATE ANALYSIS USING AN APPLICATION PROGRAMMING INTERFACE - A mobile device is emotionally enabled using an application programming interface (API) in order to infer a user's emotions and make the emotions available for sharing. Images of an individual or individuals are captured and send through the API. The images are evaluated to determine the individual's mental state. Mental state analysis is output to an app running on the device on which the API resides for further sharing, analysis, or transmission. A software development kit (SDK) can be used to generate the API or to otherwise facilitate the emotional enablement of a mobile device and the apps that run on the device. | 12-04-2014 |
20140364718 | MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS BED AND MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS - A medical image diagnostic apparatus bed according to an embodiment includes a top, a support mechanism, a determination unit, and a driving unit. On the top, a subject is placed. The support mechanism supports the top with adjustability of an elevation angle of the top. The determination unit determines the elevation angle based on information concerning deflection of the top. The driving unit drives the support mechanism in accordance with the determined elevation angle. | 12-11-2014 |
20140371570 | METHOD FOR MEASURING LIVER FAT MASS USING DUAL-ENERGY X-RAY ABSORPTIOMETRY - Methods for measuring liver fat mass are provided. One method includes acquiring dual-energy two-dimensional (2D) scan information from a dual-energy X-ray scan of a body and generating a dual-energy X-ray image of the body using the 2D scan information. The method further includes identifying a region of interest using the dual-energy X-ray image and determining a subcutaneous fat mass for each of a plurality of sections of the region of interest. The method also includes determining a liver fat mass for the region of interest based on the determined subcutaneous fat mass for each of the plurality of sections. | 12-18-2014 |
20140371571 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE GENERATION DEVICE AND METHOD - A desired structure is selectively imaged by photoacoustic imaging. Photoacoustic signals are detected, and the detected photoacoustic signals are reconstructed to generate photoacoustic image data. A Fourier transform in a two-dimensional or higher dimensional space is applied to the photoacoustic image data to generate spatial frequency domain photoacoustic image data. Given spatial frequency components are extracted from the spatial frequency domain photoacoustic image data, and an inverse Fourier transform is applied to the extracted spatial frequency components to generate spatial frequency-processed photoacoustic image data. | 12-18-2014 |
20140371572 | ACOUSTIC WAVE ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - The present invention provides an acoustic wave acquiring apparatus including: a probe configured to receive an acoustic wave from an object through an object holding unit that holds the object; an acoustic matching material holding unit configured to form a space, which holds an acoustic matching material, between the object holding unit and the probe; a scanning unit configured to allow the probe to scan in a first direction on the surface of the object holding unit, and in a second direction crossing the first direction; and a supplying unit configured to supply the acoustic matching material to the space by using a predetermined supply-amount pattern, wherein the supplying unit uses different supply-amount patterns in the case where the probe scans in the first direction and in the case where the probe scans in the second direction. | 12-18-2014 |
20140378809 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EXTRACTING PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS USING FREQUENCY HARMONICS - Methods, systems and computer program products are provided estimating a physiological characteristic of a subject based on a reflected signal received by a UWB radar system. The method comprises: processing a signal received from the UWB radar system to obtain a frequency domain representation of the signal; discerning, from the frequency domain representation, a plurality of elements considered to belong to a physiological characteristic harmonic set {PC | 12-25-2014 |
20140378810 | PHYSIOLOGIC DATA ACQUISITION AND ANALYSIS - The availability of high quality imagers on smartphones and other portable devices facilitates creation of a large, crowd-sourced, image reference library that depicts skin rashes and other dermatological conditions. Some of the images are uploaded with, or later annotated with, associated diagnoses or other information (e.g., “this rash went away when I stopped drinking milk”). A user uploads a new image of an unknown skin condition to the library. Image analysis techniques are employed to identify salient similarities between features of the uploaded image, and features of images in this reference library. Given the large dataset, statistically relevant correlations emerge that identify to the user certain diagnoses that may be considered, other diagnoses that may likely be ruled-out, and/or anecdotal information about similar skin conditions from other users. Similar arrangements can employ audio and/or other physiologically-derived signals. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378811 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus comprises a light irradiation unit that irradiates an object with pulsed light; a probe that converts an acoustic wave generated in the object due to first pulsed light into an acoustic wave signal; a photo-detection unit that converts second pulsed light propagated through the object into an optical signal; a frequency analysis unit that acquires a background optical coefficient with respect to the inside of the object on the basis of a predetermined frequency component of the optical signal; a light intensity acquiring unit that acquires a distribution of light intensity of the first pulsed light reaching the inside of the object using the background optical coefficient; and an information acquiring unit that acquires object information, using the acoustic wave signal and the distribution of light intensity. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378812 | THORACIC GARMENT OF POSITIONING ELECTROMAGNETIC (EM) TRANSDUCERS AND METHODS OF USING SUCH THORACIC GARMENT - A garment for bringing an EM transducer to contact with a thoracic skin surface area of a wearer is disclosed. The garment comprises a thoracic garment having a EM transducer placement portion and a pressure applying element associated with the EM transducer placement portion for applying a pressure on an EM transducer secured in an associated the EM transducer placement portion when the thoracic garment is worn by a wearer so that the EM transducer applies a respective pressure on a thoracic skin surface area of the wearer. | 12-25-2014 |
20140378813 | ELECTROMAGNETIC (EM) PROBES, METHODS OF USING SUCH EM PROBES AND SYSTEMS WHICH USE SUCH ELECTROMAGNETIC EM PROBES - An electromagnetic (EM) probe for monitoring at least one biological tissue. The EM probe comprises a spiral antenna conductor (not shown) and an EM radiation absorbing layer ( | 12-25-2014 |
20140378814 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION IMAGING APPARATUS AND BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION IMAGING METHOD - A biological information imaging method includes a first measurement step to measure an acoustic wave ( | 12-25-2014 |
20150011858 | Sensor Attachment for Three Dimensional Mapping Display Systems for Diagnostic Ultrasound Machines - A sensor attachment for use with three dimensional ultrasound mapping devices is presented. According to the invention, one or more sensors are attached to specific locations on the body, such as the nipple and sternum, the inventive sensor attachments enabling accurate recording of target information, including location and size; the present invention especially helpful in subsequent and comparative examinations. A method of use is also presented. | 01-08-2015 |
20150011859 | ELASTIC MODULUS MEASURING APPARATUS AND ELASTIC MODULUS MEASURING METHOD - An elastic modulus according to the present embodiment includes a light source configured to generate light having a wavelength at which a material within a measurement target absorbs the light. An optical system causes the light to be passed through the measurement target at a desired aperture diameter and focuses the light on the material. A detector contacts the measurement target and detects an acoustic wave generated when the material absorbs the light. An operation unit calculates an elastic modulus of the material using a first acoustic-wave measurement value obtained in a case where the aperture diameter is a first diameter and a second acoustic-wave measurement value obtained in a case where the aperture diameter is a second diameter different from the first diameter. | 01-08-2015 |
20150018662 | PROBE WITH OPTOACOUSTIC ISOLATOR - An optoacoustic probe including an ultrasound transducer array, an acoustic lens and a light path separated from the transducer array by an isolator to mitigate light energy from the light path from reaching the transducer array. The isolator can be formed from a mixture including a carrier material and between 10% and 80% by volume micro-bubbles. The isolator can be adapted to absorb, reflect or scatter light energy and absorb the optoacoustic response to light energy. In an embodiment, an optoacoustic probe also comprises an optical window and/or a diffuser, the isolator also separating the transducer array from these components. | 01-15-2015 |
20150018663 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus has: a resonator including at least a laser medium, a flash lamp that excites the laser medium, and an output mirror that outputs laser light; an oscillator that oscillates the laser light; a controller that controls a timing at which the oscillator oscillates the laser light after excitation performed by the flash lamp is started; a selector that selects a wavelength of the laser light; a probe that detects an acoustic wave generated in an object; and a processor that acquires characteristic information on the object, wherein the controller determines the timing, at which the laser light is oscillated, for each of the wavelengths in such a manner that a difference in output energy of the laser light falls within a predetermined range. | 01-15-2015 |
20150025356 | ASSESSMENT METHOD - A method of assessing the well being of an animal is disclosed. The method comprises obtaining information as to movement characteristics of the animal before applying medical treatment to the animal; obtaining information as to movement characteristics of the animal after applying medical treatment to the animal; comparing the movement characteristics of the animal before applying the medical treatment with the movement characteristics of the animal after applying the medical treatment and identifying differences between these; and assessing the differences and, based on these, determining whether the well being of the animal is improving as a result of the treatment. | 01-22-2015 |
20150025357 | DOUBLE LINE IMAGING DEVICE - An imaging device, including a first longitudinal body which is configured to be inserted into a cavity, and a first linear imaging element having a first linear proximal end and a first linear distal end, which is rotatably connected at the first linear proximal end to the first longitudinal body. The imaging device further includes a second linear imaging element having a second linear proximal end and a second linear distal end, which is rotatably connected at the second linear proximal end to the first linear distal end. The device also has a second longitudinal body, slidably positioned with respect to the first longitudinal body and rotatably connected to the second linear distal end. There is a rotatable shaft that is connected to at least one of the first longitudinal body and the second longitudinal body. | 01-22-2015 |
20150031979 | DERIVING INDIVIDUAL THORACIC PARAMETERS OF A SUBJECT - A method of deriving one or more individual thoracic parameters of a subject. The method comprises instructing a subject to perform a thoracic volume manipulation, receiving a plurality of measurements of a plurality of EM signals from a thoracic intrabody area of lungs of the subject during the thoracic volume manipulation, deriving a plurality of thoracic volume values at a plurality of different intervals during the thoracic volume manipulation so that each the thoracic volume value correspond with another of a plurality of estimated thoracic volumes achieved during the thoracic volume manipulation, and calculating at least one individual thoracic parameter of the subject by combining between the plurality of measurements and the plurality of thoracic volume values. | 01-29-2015 |
20150038824 | System for assessing effects of ablation therapy on cardiac tissue using photoacoustics - A catheter, system and method for assessing effects of ablation therapy on tissue are provided. Various embodiments includes an emitter such as an optic fiber disposed within a sheath, echographic probe or catheter shaft that emits electromagnetic radiation through an opening in the shaft towards the tissue to cause generation of a photoacoustic wave from the tissue. An ultrasound transducer disposed on an echographic probe or catheter shaft generates a signal indicative of a characteristic of the tissue responsive to the photoacoustic wave. In certain embodiments, the emitter and transducer are carried by a separate sheath and echographic probe, respectively. In other embodiments, the emitter is disposed within the shaft of the echographic probe. In still other embodiments, the emitter, transducer and an ablation delivery element are integrated into a single structure to permit both ablation of the tissue and assessment of the effects of the ablation on the tissue. | 02-05-2015 |
20150038825 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND PROBE FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT DEVICE - An object of the invention is to reduce the size of a probe for a photoacoustic measurement device. A light guide | 02-05-2015 |
20150045644 | System and Method for Estimating Artery Compliance and Resistance from 4D Cardiac Images and Pressure Measurements - A method and system for estimating arterial compliance and resistance based on medical image data and pressure measurements is disclosed. An arterial inflow estimate over a plurality of time points is determined based on medical image data of a patient. An arterial pressure measurement of the patient is received. At least one cardiac cycle of the arterial pressure measurement is synchronized with at least one cardiac cycle of the arterial inflow measurement. Arterial compliance and resistance of the patient is estimated based on the arterial inflow estimate and the synchronized arterial pressure measurement. | 02-12-2015 |
20150045645 | OPTICAL IMAGING PROBE - This document discusses, among other things, a connector for an optical imaging probe that includes one or more optical fibers communicating light along the catheter. The device may use multiple sections for simpler manufacturing and ease of assembly during a medical procedure. Light energy to and from a distal minimally-invasive portion of the probe is coupled by the connector to external diagnostic or analytical instrumentation through an external instrumentation lead. Certain examples provide a self-aligning two-section optical catheter with beveled ends, which is formed by separating an optical cable assembly. Techniques for improving light coupling include using a lens between instrumentation lead and probe portions. Techniques for improving the mechanical alignment of a multi-optical fiber catheter include using a stop or a guide. | 02-12-2015 |
20150045646 | INTERACTIVE VIRTUAL CARE - An interactive virtual care system may include a user sensory module to acquire multi-modal user data related to user movement. A data analysis module may compare the multi-modal user data to predetermined historical user data and/or statistical norm data for users to identify an anomaly in the user movement. | 02-12-2015 |
20150051473 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC SPECTROSCOPY - A photoacoustic sensor system includes a photoacoustic sensor assembly having a light emitting component configured to emit one or more wavelengths of light into a region of a patient's tissue and an acoustic detector configured to detect acoustic energy generated within the region of the patient's tissue in response to the emitted light. The photoacoustic sensor assembly is configured to generate a signal that enables a monitor to determine a potion of the sensor assembly relative to the patient's tissue. | 02-19-2015 |
20150065845 | MEASURING APPARATUS AND ITS METHOD - An object of the present invention is to make it possible to accurately grasp the state inside an object to be measured. According to the present invention there is provided a measuring apparatus comprising: quasi-electrostatic field generating means generating a quasi-electrostatic field of higher strength as compared with a radiated electric field and an induced electromagnetic field; quasi-electrostatic field detecting means detecting a result of interaction between the quasi-electrostatic field generated by the quasi-electrostatic field generating means and applied to a human body, and an electric field corresponding to a potential change caused by a biological reaction inside the human body; and extracting means extracting the potential change from the result of interaction. | 03-05-2015 |
20150065846 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREDICTING LOCATION, ONSET, AND/OR CHANGE OF CORONARY LESIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed for predicting the location, onset, or change of coronary lesions from factors like vessel geometry, physiology, and hemodynamics. One method includes: acquiring, for each of a plurality of individuals, a geometric model, blood flow characteristics, and plaque information for part of the individual's vascular system; training a machine learning algorithm based on the geometric models and blood flow characteristics for each of the plurality of individuals, and features predictive of the presence of plaque within the geometric models and blood flow characteristics of the plurality of individuals; acquiring, for a patient, a geometric model and blood flow characteristics for part of the patient's vascular system; and executing the machine learning algorithm on the patient's geometric model and blood flow characteristics to determine, based on the predictive features, plaque information of the patient for at least one point in the patient's geometric model. | 03-05-2015 |
20150065847 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREDICTING LOCATION, ONSET, AND/OR CHANGE OF CORONARY LESIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed for predicting the location, onset, or change of coronary lesions from factors like vessel geometry, physiology, and hemodynamics. One method includes: acquiring, for each of a plurality of individuals, a geometric model, blood flow characteristics, and plaque information for part of the individual's vascular system; training a machine learning algorithm based on the geometric models and blood flow characteristics for each of the plurality of individuals, and features predictive of the presence of plaque within the geometric models and blood flow characteristics of the plurality of individuals; acquiring, for a patient, a geometric model and blood flow characteristics for part of the patient's vascular system; and executing the machine learning algorithm on the patient's geometric model and blood flow characteristics to determine, based on the predictive features, plaque information of the patient for at least one point in the patient's geometric model. | 03-05-2015 |
20150065848 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREDICTING LOCATION, ONSET, AND/OR CHANGE OF CORONARY LESIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed for predicting the location, onset, or change of coronary lesions from factors like vessel geometry, physiology, and hemodynamics. One method includes: acquiring, for each of a plurality of individuals, a geometric model, blood flow characteristics, and plaque information for part of the individual's vascular system; training a machine learning algorithm based on the geometric models and blood flow characteristics for each of the plurality of individuals, and features predictive of the presence of plaque within the geometric models and blood flow characteristics of the plurality of individuals; acquiring, for a patient, a geometric model and blood flow characteristics for part of the patient's vascular system; and executing the machine learning algorithm on the patient's geometric model and blood flow characteristics to determine, based on the predictive features, plaque information of the patient for at least one point in the patient's geometric model. | 03-05-2015 |
20150065849 | Automated Pneumothorax Detection - A method of determining the presence of a pneumothorax includes obtaining a series of frames of image data relating to a region of interest including a pleural interface of a lung. The image data includes at least a first frame and a second frame. The method further includes identifying, via processing circuitry, the pleural interface in at least the first frame and the second frame, determining, based on computing optical flow between the first and second frames, a pleural sliding classification of the image data at the pleural interface, and determining whether a pneumothorax is present in the pleural interface based on the pleural sliding classification. | 03-05-2015 |
20150073254 | Adam & Ease Mammography Device - Two styles of The Adam & Ease Mammography Device are intended, brassiere style (typically for females) and breastplate style (typically for males). The Device should be manufactured to include highly variable cup or mold sizes that will conform to the torso snugly without tightness and use Sensors and Mesh Lines to “read” through breast tissue. Secondary Torso Connectors enhance sizing variability when needed. The Device will have a Vacuum Ability, which allows the Conforming Mesh to be customized to individuals. The Device will create a more comfortable screening for breast tissue anomalies than current methods. The Device may be manufactured to be recyclable; each part should be soft. The Device may be ground for electricity via Grounding Points at its right or left Horn. The USB port on The Device may be used to connect it, if not using wireless communications, from its Rim to a computer. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073255 | SCOUT IMAGE SCANNING METHOD AND SYSTEM - Embodiments provide a scout image scanning method and system. The method includes: selecting a scanning protocol to determine a scanning part of a target object; looking up, in a first lookup table, a corresponding scanning length value based on the scanning part; looking up, in a second lookup table, corresponding scanning parameters based on the scanning part and sign information of the target object; and automatically setting a scout image scanning dosage based on the scanning length and the scanning parameters obtained from above looking up processes, and implementing a scanning process. Efficiency of the scout image scanning processes may be increased, dosages used therein may be reduced and thus reducing risks of hurting the target objects. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073256 | GANTRY IMAGE GUIDED RADIOTHERAPY SYSTEM AND RELATED TREATMENT DELIVERY METHODS - Systems, methods, and related computer program products for image-guided radiation treatment (IGRT) are described. Provided according to one preferred embodiment is an IGRT apparatus including a barrel-style rotatable gantry structure that provides high mechanical stability, versatility in radiation delivery, and versatility in target tracking. Methods for treatment radiation delivery using the IGRT apparatus include conical non-coplanar rotational arc therapy and cono-helical non-coplanar rotational arc therapy. A radiation treatment head (MV source) and a treatment guidance imaging system including a kV imaging source are mounted to and rotatable with a common barrel-style rotatable gantry structure, or alternatively the MV and kV sources are mounted to separate barrel-style rotatable gantry structures independently rotatable around a common axis of rotation. Methods for intra-fraction target tracking in a gantry-style IGRT system based on comparisons between a pre-acquired planning image and intrafraction x-ray tomosynthesis images and/or intrafraction cone beam CT (CBCT) images are also described. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073257 | DYNAMIC DIAGNOSIS SUPPORT INFORMATION GENERATION SYSTEM - A dynamic diagnosis support information generation system includes: a radiation generator capable of irradiating a pulsed radiation; a radiation detector which is provided with a plurality of detecting elements arranged in two-dimension, detects the pulsed radiation irradiated from the radiation generator at each of the plurality of detecting elements and generates frame images successively; and an analysis section which calculates and outputs a feature value relating to a dynamic image of a subject based on a plurality of frame images generated by radiographing the subject by using the radiation generator and the radiation detector, wherein the analysis section calculates the feature value relating to the dynamic image of the subject by corresponding pixels to each others representing outputs of a detecting element at a same position in the radiation detector among the plurality of the frame images. | 03-12-2015 |
20150080700 | Flexible Debulking Catheters with Imaging and Methods of Use and Manufacture - Catheters and methods for removing material from (or “debulking”) a body lumen while imaging the region comprised of the material are provided. The catheters can be used in body lumens, including but not limited to intravascular lumens such as coronary or peripheral arteries. The catheters include housings or other structures to mount or protect an imaging transducer. Generally, debulking catheters include a proximal portion, a distal portion having an opening, a cutting element which may be exposed through the opening to contact material in a body lumen and an imaging transducer with associated circuitry and display. The catheter debulks a body lumen when it is moved while the cutting element is in contact with the material in the lumen and the region comprised of the material is imaged before, after, or during catheter movement. | 03-19-2015 |
20150080701 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO EVALUATE A MEDICAL EXAMINATION - In a method and device to evaluate an examination of an examination subject with a medical imaging apparatus, an examination data set of the examination subject is imported into the evaluation device. A reference data set is associated with the imported examination data set, wherein the reference data set includes at least one reference region. At least one examination region of the examination data set is established by the evaluation device using the at least one reference region of the reference data set. The establishment of the at least one examination region of the examination data set can include a selection of at least one image of the examination data set; a marking of the at least one examination region in at least one image of the examination data set; and a segmentation of the at least one examination region in at least one image of the examination data set. | 03-19-2015 |
20150087954 | MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, METHOD OF OPERATING THE MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING PROGRAM - An organ region extracting section that extracts at least one organ region from a three dimensional image of a subject; a directional data obtaining section that obtains directional data of the subject based on one of the position of the organ region within the body of the subject and the shape of the organ region; a stage region extracting section that extracts a region of a stage on which the subject is placed from the three dimensional image; and a posture data obtaining section that obtains posture data of the subject on the stage, based on the region of the stage and the directional data of the subject; are provided. | 03-26-2015 |
20150087955 | MULTI-WAVELENGTH PHOTOACOUSTIC CHARACTERIZATION AND THERMOGRAPHIC IMAGING - The present disclosure relates to a method comprising imaging a tissue with multi-wavelength photoacoustic imaging, to provide a visualization, characterization and/or thermographic imaging of the tissue. | 03-26-2015 |
20150087956 | X-RAY DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND MEDICAL IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS - An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, image generating unit generating time-series medical images of vasoganglion in a predetermined organ of a subject, region setting unit setting a first upstream and downstream region of a stenosis location in a first blood vessel in the vasoganglion on the medical images, curve generating unit generating a stenosis upstream and downstream curve indicating a change in pixel value in the time-series based on pixel values included in the first upstream and downstream region respectively, stenosis index generating unit generating a stenosis index indicating the degree of stenosis in the first blood vessel based on the stenosis upstream and downstream curve, and display unit displaying the stenosis index. | 03-26-2015 |
20150099960 | ULTRASONIC PROBE AND MEDICAL APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME - An ultrasonic probe includes a stimulation unit which stimulates an object so that particular waves are induced, a conversion unit which receives at least one of the particular waves and ultrasound including information about the particular waves, and a circuit board including a first circuit unit that drives the stimulation unit, and a second circuit unit that receives electrical signals corresponding to the ultrasound from the conversion unit. | 04-09-2015 |
20150099961 | PHOTO-ACOUSTIC PROBE FOR CLINICAL IMAGE - Provided is a miniaturized photo-acoustic probe for a clinical image capable of effectively measuring a photo-acoustic signal by making an ultrasonic axis and an optical axis parallel. The photo-acoustic probe for a clinical image includes a laser generator configured to generate a laser beam, an ultrasound transducer disposed to be parallel to the laser generator and configured to analyze ultrasound output from an object, first and second reflectors configured to receive ultrasound generated in an axis identical to that of the laser beam generated by the laser generator, and a medium material configured to allow the laser to be transmitted from the first reflector to the object and increase ultrasound reflectivity of the first and the second reflector. | 04-09-2015 |
20150105648 | Multispectral Detection and Presentation of an Object's Characteristics - An apparatus for capturing a multispectral image of an object is described. The apparatus includes one or more means for transmitting a beam of laser light at a first wavelength and a beam of laser light at one or more additional wavelengths different from the first wavelength. There is a means for causing the beams of laser light to travel in a coaxial path and a moving mirror. The beams of light bounce off the mirror thereby producing a two dimensional projection pattern. This pattern travels from the mirror along a first path to an object and wherein some of the laser light penetrates the object and travels to an internal structure of the object. The reflection of the laser light returns to a photo detector along a path different from said first path. | 04-16-2015 |
20150105649 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - It is possible to perform light emitting control to a subject taking into account measurement conditions (size and a pressing state of the subject). | 04-16-2015 |
20150105650 | SIDE LOADING TORQUE DEVICES FOR INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Torque devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, a torque device includes a body having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a longitudinal axis. The body includes a slot extending along a length of the body parallel to the longitudinal axis. The slot extends from an exterior surface of the body to an interior surface of the body. The slot is sized and shaped to receive a flexible elongate member. The body includes an opening extending through the body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and in communication with the slot. The torque device includes a closing mechanism movably coupled to the body. The closing mechanism is movable within the opening of the body between an open position that allows the flexible elongate member to be inserted into the slot and a locked position that fixedly secures the flexible elongate member to the torque device. | 04-16-2015 |
20150112181 | WIDEBAND ULTRASONIC PROBE FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE AND ULTRASOUND IMAGE - Provided are a wideband ultrasonic probe for a photoacoustic image and an ultrasound image. The wideband ultrasonic probe includes a first ultrasonic transducer array and a second ultrasonic transducer array that are disposed on a substrate; and a laser apparatus that comprises a laser irradiator configured to irradiate a laser light onto a diagnosis object, wherein the first ultrasonic transducer array receives a first ultrasonic wave which is generated from the diagnosis object on which the laser light is irradiated, and the second ultrasonic transducer array transmits a high frequency bandwidth ultrasonic wave toward the diagnosis object and receives a second ultrasonic wave that is reflected by the diagnosis object. | 04-23-2015 |
20150119679 | HEALTH MONITOR - A health monitor includes a belt, a belt-buckle and a reader. The belt-buckle is connected to an end of the belt, and is configured to buckle up with the belt when the belt is rounded in a form of a ring. The reader is located at the belt-buckle, and is configured to read a buckling position where the belt-buckle and the belt buckle up. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119680 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS - A long period of time is required to complete measurement performed by a subject information obtaining apparatus. Accordingly, a subject information obtaining apparatus includes a receiver including a plurality of conversion elements which receive acoustic waves and output reception signals and a supporting member including the conversion elements disposed therein, a movement mechanism configured to move the receiver, and a controller configured to input a driving signal to the movement mechanism. The conversion elements are disposed in the supporting member such that directional axes of a number of the conversion elements are converged. The controller controls the movement mechanism so that a center position of a scanning trajectory of the receiver is changed. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119681 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SCANNING EXCITATION LIGHT FOR A PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE - Provided is an apparatus for scanning excitation light for a photoacoustic image including a laser delivery device including a rotation reflector configured to receive an excitation laser beam emitted from a laser beam generator, reflect the received excitation laser beam at a certain angle, and radially deliver the reflected excitation laser beam through rotation; a plurality of optical connection lenses disposed on a circumference having a predetermined radius from the rotation reflector and configured to sequentially receive the excitation laser beam while the rotation reflector rotates; and a plurality of optical fiber strands connected with the plurality of optical connection lenses and configured to guide laser light received by the optical connection lenses to a photoacoustic probe. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119682 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - A subject information acquisition apparatus according to the present invention includes multiple first conversion elements which receive photoacoustic waves. A direction in which reception sensitivity is highest differs between a first part of the first conversion elements, and a second part of the first conversion elements which is different from the first part of the first conversion elements. Both are disposed on the supporting member with the direction in which reception sensitivity is highest each facing toward a predetermined region. Also included is a plurality of second conversion elements which are different from the first conversion elements and which transmit acoustic waves to the subject and each receive reflection waves reflected within the subject. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119683 | SUBJECT-INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A subject-information acquiring apparatus includes a light source; a bed having a holder holding an examined portion of a subject, the bed being configured to support the subject; acoustic wave detectors configured to detect acoustic waves and output electric signals, the acoustic waves being generated when the examined portion is irradiated with light from the light source; a supporting member configured to support the acoustic wave detectors such that a direction of maximum reception sensitivity of at least some acoustic wave detectors and a direction of maximum reception sensitivity of other acoustic wave detectors different from the at least some acoustic wave detectors are different and are directed toward a specific region; and a signal processing unit configured to acquire information about the inside of the examined portion on the basis of the electric signals. The holder can be changed in shape to fit a shape of the examined portion. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119684 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING SUBJECT INFORMATION, DISPLAY METHOD, AND PROGRAM - A subject-information acquisition apparatus includes a light source; a holding member configured to hold a subject so as to surround the subject; at least one transducer configured to receive an acoustic wave generated by irradiating the subject with light from the light source; and a signal processing unit configured to obtain distribution information using a received signal output from the transducer. The holding member includes a marker that absorbs the light and generates an acoustic wave. | 04-30-2015 |
20150119685 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE THREE-DIMENSIONAL LOCATION AND ORIENTATlON OF IDENTIFICATION MARKERS - A three-dimensional position and orientation tracking system comprises one or more pattern tags, each comprising a plurality of contrasting portions, a tracker for obtaining image information about the pattern tags, a database with geometric information describing patterns on pattern tags; and a controller for receiving and processing the image information from the tracker, accessing the database to retrieve geometric information, and comparing the image information with the geometric information. The contrasting portions are arranged in a rotationally asymmetric pattern and at least one of the contrasting portions on a pattern tag has a perimeter that has a mathematically describable curved section. The pattern tags may be borne on tracking markers that have a three-dimensional shaped surface. The tracking system can be implemented in a surgical monitoring system in which the pattern tags are attached to tracking markers or are themselves tracking markers. A method associated with the system employs the rotationally asymmetric patterns on the tags to determine the three-dimensional locations and orientations of items bearing the tags using non-stereo image information. | 04-30-2015 |
20150126849 | PHOTOACOUSTIC PROBE AND PHOTOACOUSTIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS INCLUDING SAME - Provided is a photoacoustic probe. The photoacoustic probe is configured to control light emitted from an optical unit by using a shutter that is switched between a state in which the shutter is opened to allow light to pass therethrough and a state in which the shutter blocks the light according to whether an inspection starts. | 05-07-2015 |
20150133763 | PATCHES FOR THE ATTACHMENT OF ELECTROMAGNETIC (EM) PROBES - An adhesive patch for attaching at least one EM probe to a subject's body, the adhesive patch comprising a planar member having at least one layer of radiation absorbing material and having at least one opening formed within the radiation absorbing material to allow the propagation of EM radiation via the opening from one side of the planar member to the other. The adhesive patch further comprises at least one layer of an adhesive attached over at least part of a bottom surface of the planar member, which adhesive layer may be applied so as to form a pattern on the bottom surface, the pattern comprising at least one adhesive-covered portion and at least one adhesive-free portion. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133764 | SURGERY ASSISTANCE APPARATUS, METHOD AND PROGRAM - When an image representing an organ in which an excision region has been identified in such a manner that a blood vessel region in the organ is visually recognizable is generated from a three-dimensional image of the organ, an input specifying a depth of cutting is received, and a portion of a boundary surface within the specified depth of cutting along the boundary surface from an outer edge of the boundary surface toward an inside is determined as a cutting surface, and the boundary surface being between the excision region and a non-excision region in the organ. The image representing the organ in such a manner that only a partial blood vessel region, which is present in a neighborhood region of the cutting surface in the blood vessel region of the organ, is visually recognizable is generated from the three-dimensional image. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133765 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS - A biological information acquisition apparatus and a biological information acquisition method, both capable of radiating a uniform and efficient light to the whole living body tissue as an object of the detection are provided. The biological information acquisition apparatus of the present invention includes a light source and an acoustic wave detector detecting an acoustic wave generated by making a light from the light source enter the object through an object holding member. Furthermore, one or more light transmitting members are provided, and the light enters the light transmitting member from a side surface side of the acoustic wave detector, and enters the object holding member through the light transmitting member at an angle other than one perpendicular to the object holding member. | 05-14-2015 |
20150133766 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A subject information acquiring apparatus of the present invention includes a subject-holding member which holds a subject and a probe unit having a transducer which receives acoustic waves from the subject through the subject-holding member, a housing which accommodates the transducer, and a matching liquid-holding member configured to hold a matching liquid between the transducer and the subject-holding member, the probe unit being allowed to move relative to the subject-holding member. The probe unit has a guide which introduces the matching liquid to the subject-holding member, the matching liquid having been spilled from a space defined by the matching liquid-holding member, the transducer, and the subject-holding member onto the upper surface of the hosing and then flowed from the upper surface of the housing. | 05-14-2015 |
20150141793 | METHOD OF TRACKING AN AFFECTED AREA AND A SURGICAL EQUIPMENT - A method of tracking an affected area and a surgical equipment, which is capable of tracing positions of the affected area and the surgical equipment more precisely through a stereo scope by using images of the affected area and the surgical equipment traced in macro scale after tracing the affected area and the surgical equipment in macro scale. The method of tracking an affected area and a surgical equipment, includes a step of macro tracking in which energy emitted from a plurality of markers attached to the affected area and the surgical equipment is sensed to trace positions of the affected are and the surgical equipment; a step of image input in which images of the affected area and the surgical equipment that are traced in the step of macro tracking step are captured by the tracking sensor and the images of the affected area and the surgical equipment , which are captured by the tracking sensor, are inputted to a stereo display part of a microscope; and a step of micro tracking in which the positions of the affected area and the surgical equipment are traced based on a coordinate of the microscope by using macro images of the stereo display part of the microscope. | 05-21-2015 |
20150141794 | ULTRA WIDEBAND MONITORING SYSTEMS AND ANTENNAS - Apparatus for monitoring vital signs of one or more living subjects comprises a monitoring station and at least one sensor in communication with the monitoring station. The sensor comprises an antenna system, an ultra wideband radar system coupled to the antenna system, a signal processor and a communication system. The signal processor is connected to receive a signal from the ultra wideband radar system and configured to extract from the signal information about one or more vital signs of a person or animal in a sensing volume corresponding to the antenna system. The communication system is configured to transmit the information to the monitoring station. | 05-21-2015 |
20150141795 | BREAST SCANNING APPARATUS USING PHOTOACOUSTIC ULTRASONIC WAVE - A breast scanning apparatus which uses photoacoustic ultrasonic waves is provided. The breast scanning apparatus includes a body which includes a first hole and a second hole which are horizontally parallel to each other; a first compression plate and a second compression plate, at least one of which is movable in a vertical direction with respect to the body; a first sliding plate and a second sliding plate, which are respectively installed on surfaces of the first compression plate and the second compression plate and are facing each other and are movable in a first direction; a first ultrasonic transducer array in the first compression plate and facing the first sliding plate; and a first laser head in the first compression plate, which is movable in a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction. | 05-21-2015 |
20150141796 | IMAGING SYSTEM SUBJECT SUPPORT - A subject support ( | 05-21-2015 |
20150141797 | Radiometers and Related Devices and Methods - Certain radiometer assemblies can include an antenna that is shielded within an enclosure, which can have an open end. The antenna can be used to receive signals from a patient via a matching layer that is positioned at the open end of the enclosure. In some assemblies, a modular unit may be provided that is configured for connection with an electrical shield having at least a portion of a radiometer therein. | 05-21-2015 |
20150148650 | OPHTHALMIC LENS WITH RETINAL VASCULARIZATION MONITORING SYSTEM - The present invention relates to an ophthalmic device with a retinal vascularization monitoring system and associated methods. In some embodiments, the ophthalmic device can be a contact lens with a retinal vascularization monitoring system that can be used to monitor temporal changes of a pulsating vessel forming part of the retinal vascularization. Further, the retinal vascularization monitoring system may include elements for delivering a signal, including an audible and/or visual message, to the user that can be useful for identifying abnormal conditions such as a cardiac failure without delay. The audible and/or visual messages can be signals communicated to the user using one or both of the ophthalmic device and a wireless device in communication with the ophthalmic device. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148651 | Imaging System Frequency Modulation Method - A method is disclosed herein to add therapeutic functionality to medical imaging systems. The preferred embodiment of an Imaging System Frequency Modulation Method in accordance with the present invention adds at least one bioactive frequency that is part of the acoustic or electromagnetic frequency spectrum to the imaging system output frequency used to acquire an image in a medical imaging system by modulating said imaging system output frequency with said bioactive frequency. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148652 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus, including: a light source; a detecting unit that detects an acoustic wave generated from an object which has received an irradiation light from the light source; a processing unit that generates characteristic information on the inside of the object by using the acoustic wave; and a memory unit that records the characteristic information in association with information on the irradiation light. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148653 | DETERMINING A RANGE OF MOTION OF AN ARTIFICIAL KNEE JOINT - A data processing method for determining a range of motion of an artificial knee joint which connects a femur and a tibia via a medial ligament and a lateral ligament, wherein at least the femur comprises an implant which forms a medial condyle and a lateral condyle, the method comprising the steps of: acquiring the maximum lengths of the lateral ligament and the medial ligament for a particular flexion angle of the knee joint; calculating a first virtual position between the femur and the tibia in which the lateral condyle of the femoral implant touches the tibia and the medial ligament is stretched to its maximum length; calculating a maximum valgus angle of the range of motion from the first virtual position; calculating a second virtual position between the femur and the tibia in which the medial condyle of the femoral implant touches the tibia and the lateral ligament is stretched to its maximum length; and calculating a maximum varus angle of the range of motion from the second virtual position. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148654 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND COMPUTER-ACCESSIBLE MEDIUM FOR PROVIDING AND/OR UTILIZING OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHIC VIBROGRAPHY - Exemplary embodiments of apparatus, method and computer-accessible medium can be provided for obtaining image information regarding at least one portion of at least one sample. For example, using such exemplary embodiments, it is possible to use at least one arrangement to (i) receive or generate first data regarding a controlled physical excitation of the portion(s) and optical coherence second data associated with the sample(s). Further, it is possible, e.g., using such arrangement(s), to generate the image information based on the first data and the second data, wherein the controlled physical excitation is caused by a non-biological arrangement. The image information can include depth information within the portion(s). | 05-28-2015 |
20150148655 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NON-CONTACT ULTRASOUND - A system and method for generating ultrasound images of a subject without physically contacting the subject is provided. A photoacoustic excitation source may be employed that directed into a scanning mirror to transmit acoustic disturbances into a patient to induce propagating photoacoustic waves. The acoustic disturbances are translated along the patient in a defined direction to cause coherent summation of the propagating photoacoustic waves and, thereby, a resultant acoustic and/or elastic wave to probe structures within the patient. Vibrations created by the backscatter of the resultant wave are detected at the surface of the patient and ultrasound images of the structures within the patient are generated. Detection of the vibrations may be performed using a laser vibrometer. The excitation and detection systems may be used separately or in combination. | 05-28-2015 |
20150148656 | INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING INFORMATION - An information obtaining apparatus that obtains information regarding a subject includes a radiation unit configured to focus a terahertz wave having a plurality of different frequencies or a plurality of different beam diameters and radiate the terahertz wave onto the subject, a detection unit configured to detect the terahertz wave that has penetrated the subject or that has been reflected by the subject, a spectrum obtaining unit configured to obtain a spectrum of optical characteristics of the subject using a result of the detection performed by the detection unit, and a determination unit configured to determine a state of the subject on the basis of the spectrum obtained by the spectrum obtaining unit. The determination unit determines the state of the subject on the basis of a difference between a plurality of spectra obtained by the spectrum obtaining unit at a plurality of different positions in the subject. | 05-28-2015 |
20150297091 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING DEVICE - A photoacoustic imaging device includes a light source that emits pulsed light at a subject, an ultrasonic transducer that converts vibration of a detection object of the subject that is generated according to the pulsed light to an electric signal, and a controller that selectively activates or deactivates the ultrasonic transducer, the controller deactivating the ultrasonic transducer while the light source emits the pulsed light. | 10-22-2015 |
20150297092 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE GENERATING DEVICE AND INSERTION OBJECT - Even when an insertion object is inserted to a deep position of a subject or even when the insertion object is inserted into the subject at an angle close to a right angle, it is possible to confirm the position of the insertion object in a photoacoustic image. The insertion object is, for example, a hollow puncture needle | 10-22-2015 |
20150297142 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXTRACTING PHYSIOLOGICAL INFORMATION - The present invention relates to a device and method for extracting physiological information from electromagnetic radiation emitted or reflected by a subject ( | 10-22-2015 |
20150297315 | TWO-PART TRACKING REFERENCE STRUCTURE - The present invention relates to a tracking reference structure for localising and tracking an object by means of a medical tracking system, said structure comprising: a first part ( | 10-22-2015 |
20150305628 | PROBE ADAPTED TO CONTROL BLOOD FLOW THROUGH VESSELS DURING IMAGING AND METHOD OF USE OF SAME - In an embodiment, an apparatus for opto-acoustic imaging includes a first contact area adapted to apply a first pressure to a surface of an imaging volume of a subject and a second contact area adapted to apply a second pressure to the surface. The second contact area is configured to provide decreased blood exit from the imaging volume by restricting flow relative to the first contact area. An optical energy output port is provided to illuminate the imaging volume to produce opto-acoustic signals from an absorbed optical energy of blood in the imaging volume. The opto-acoustic signals are detected by one or more ultrasound transducers and processed by a processor to generate images of the volume. An image generated by processing the detected opto-acoustic signals is output on a display. | 10-29-2015 |
20150305649 | ELECTROMAGNETIC SENSOR FOR USE IN MEASUREMENTS ON A SUBJECT - A sensor unit for use in measurements on a subject is presented. The sensor unit includes a near field electromagnetic sensor and a flexible signal transmission structure, which are integral with one another by means of at least one common continuous surface. The flexible signal transmission structure is constructed from a first layer including signal connection lines associated with sensor cells near field electromagnetic sensor and a second electrically conductive layer electrically coupled to the electrically conductive material of the sensor. | 10-29-2015 |
20150313472 | OPTICAL ULTRASOUND RECEIVER - An imaging guidewire can include one or more optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) can direct light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound can be sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal can be optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed such as to develop a 2D or 3D image. In an example, the guidewire outer diameter can be small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. To minimize the size of the guidewire, an ultrasound-to-acoustic transducer that is relatively insensitive to the polarization of the optical sensing signal can be used. The ultrasound-to-optical transducer can be manufactured so that it is relatively insensitive to the polarization of the optical sensing signal. | 11-05-2015 |
20150320321 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object is inserted through a first opening of a bed, and a probe is disposed which includes a breast support member supporting a plurality of first acoustic wave detection elements, which receive an acoustic wave propagated from the object and output a first reception signal so that the first acoustic wave detection elements are oriented to a predetermined area. The probe is separated from the object inserted through the first opening of the bed in the normal direction of the opening surface of the first opening. The bed holds a plurality of second acoustic wave detection elements that receive the acoustic wave propagated from the object and output the second reception signal, and orient the second acoustic wave detection elements to the predetermined area. | 11-12-2015 |
20150320400 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REGISTERING MEDICAL IMAGES - Provided are a method and apparatus for registering medical images. The method includes: setting, as a reference, axis an axis of a probe that is disposed to be parallel to an axis of an object; extracting a first sub-object from a first medical image that is obtained by using the probe; extracting a second sub-object from a second medical image that has a modality different from a modality of the first medical image; and registering the first medical image and the second medical image by aligning the first sub-object and the second sub-object about the reference axis. | 11-12-2015 |
20150320492 | MULTI POINT TREATMENT PROBES AND METHODS OF USING THEREOF - An embodiment of system for intrabody treatment of a treatment location in a body of a treated patient is disclosed. The system may include deploying at least two transmission points of a multi point probe to a proximity with the treatment location in the body. A transmission pattern may be selected that defines, for each of the transmission points, a respective signal of a plurality of transmission signals. The transmission pattern may form at least one interaction between the respective signals. The interaction may form a hot spot at the treatment location. A plurality of transmission signals may be delivered from the transmission points. | 11-12-2015 |
20150327768 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus disclosed herein includes a plurality of receiving elements which receive photoacoustic waves caused by irradiation of light from a light source to a subject and outputs reception signals and a signal data acquisition unit which generates and stores reception signal data by reducing a data amount of reception signals output from the plurality of receiving elements when a region where the directional axes of the plurality of receiving elements are gathered at a point is not included in a region of interest. | 11-19-2015 |
20150327769 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus includes a light source; a supporting member configured to support a receiving element that receives a photoacoustic wave generated through irradiation of a subject with light generated by the light source and that outputs a time-series reception signal; a control unit configured to set a plurality of measurement positions at which the supporting member is located when the subject is irradiated with the light at a plurality of timings; a moving unit configured to move the supporting member to the plurality of measurement positions; a signal data obtaining unit configured to generate reception signal data by reducing a data amount of the time-series reception signal in accordance with a measurement position among the measurement positions, and store the reception signal data; and an information obtaining unit configured to obtain information about the subject on the basis of the reception signal data. | 11-19-2015 |
20150327770 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus includes a light source; a receiving element configured to receive, at a plurality of positions, a photoacoustic wave generated through irradiation of a subject with light generated by the light source, and output a time-series reception signal; a signal data obtaining unit configured to obtain information that is based on a shape of the subject, generate reception signal data by reducing a data amount of the time-series reception signal on the basis of the obtained information that is based on the shape of the subject, and store the reception signal data; and an information obtaining unit configured to obtain information about the subject on the basis of the reception signal data stored in the signal data obtaining unit. | 11-19-2015 |
20150327771 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus includes a light source, a probe including a reception element that receives a photoacoustic wave generated by a subject in response to being illuminated with light and output a time-series reception signal, a signal data acquisition unit that generates reception signal data based on the time-series reception signal and stores the resultant data, a light fluence acquisition unit that acquires a light fluence at a position of interest in the subject, and an information acquisition unit that acquires subject information based on the stored reception signal data, wherein in a case where the light fluence at the position of interest is smaller than a threshold value, the signal data acquisition unit reduces the amount of data for a part of the time-series reception signal that corresponds to the position of interest. | 11-19-2015 |
20150327772 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus includes a light source, a plurality of receiving elements that receive a photoacoustic wave generated as a subject is irradiated with light emitted from the light source and output time-series reception signals, a signal data acquisition unit that generates reception-signal data based on the time-series reception signals and store the reception-signal data, and an information acquisition unit that acquires information on the subject based on the reception-signal data stored in the signal data acquisition unit. | 11-19-2015 |
20150327773 | PROBE - There is provided a photo acoustic probe which prevents foreign substances from entering and of which a portion of a light emitting unit to be easily damaged can be replaced. An acoustic wave detector | 11-19-2015 |
20150327779 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING BLOOD FLOW CONDITION IN REGION OF INTEREST IN PATIENT'S BODY - A system and method are presented for use in monitoring blood flow conditions in a region of interest in a patient's body, such as a brain or kidney region. The monitoring system comprises a blood flow sensing system, and a control unit configured for communication with the sensing system to operate and to process and analyze output data of the sensing system. The blood flow sensing system is configured and operable for measuring a blood flow parameter from a first region being a region of interest in a patient's body and generating first measured data indicative thereof, and measuring a blood flow parameter in a second region being a tissue region outside the brain region and generating second measured data indicative thereof The control unit is configured for operating the sensing system for carrying out substantially simultaneous measurements on the region of interest and the tissue region outside the region of interest and recording the first and second measured data, and configured and operable for determining a predetermined function characterizing a relation between the first measured data and the second measured data, and generating output data indicative of said relation, being indicative of the blood flow condition in the region of interest. | 11-19-2015 |
20150327780 | IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM - An image processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes a processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to obtain images in a time series including images of a blood vessel of a subject and correlation information indicating a correlational relationship between physical indices of the blood vessel and function indices of the blood vessel related to vascular hemodynamics, calculate blood vessel morphology indices in a time series indicating morphology of the blood vessel of the subject, on a basis of the images in the time series, and identify a function index of the blood vessel of the subject, by using a physical index of the blood vessel of the subject obtained from the blood vessel morphology indices, on a basis of the correlation information. | 11-19-2015 |
20150335251 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - This invention employs an object information acquiring apparatus including a probe for receiving, as a received signal, an acoustic wave which is generated within an object irradiated with light and propagates on an object surface, and a processor for generating object information, which is information based on an internal optical characteristic value of the object, by using intensity of the received signal. The processor corrects the intensity of the received signal by using the reflectance upon the acoustic wave entering the probe which is calculated based on the angle of the acoustic wave entering the probe, and on the acoustic impedance and acoustic velocity of the object and the probe. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335252 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT DEVICE, PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT METHOD, AND PROBE CONTACT DETERMINATION METHOD - A photoacoustic measurement device | 11-26-2015 |
20150335253 | ACOUSTIC-WAVE MEASURING APPARATUS AND METHOD - An acoustic-wave measuring apparatus includes a holding unit configured to hold a subject and an irradiation unit configured to irradiate the subject with light. An acoustic-wave detecting unit detects acoustic waves generated in the subject due to irradiation with the light; an image pickup unit acquires an image of the subject; and a measurement position on the image acquired by the image pickup unit is designated. A coordinate transforming unit transforms the coordinates of the measurement position on the image to coordinates of a corresponding position on the holding unit; and a position control unit moves at least one of the irradiation unit and the acoustic-wave detecting unit to the corresponding position on the holding unit. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335289 | PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND PUNCTURE NEEDLE - The invention provides a photoacoustic measurement device that can confirm the position of a puncture needle in a photoacoustic image even in the case where the puncture needle is stuck to a deep position from the surface of a subject. Further, the invention provides a puncture needle that is used for the photoacoustic image generating device. The puncture needle | 11-26-2015 |
20150335304 | DIAGNOSTICALLY USEFUL RESULTS IN REAL TIME - Method for real-time vascular modeling and assessment. Modeling, in some embodiments, comprises receiving a plurality of 2-D angiographic images of a portion of a vasculature of a subject, and processing the images to automatically detect 2-D features, for example, paths along vascular extents, which are projected into 3-D to determine homologous features among blood vessels and construct 3-D vascular extents and determine other vascular characteristics. Assessment, in some embodiments, comprises processing models selectively different from one another to produce one or more vascular indexes which indicate a diagnostic preference, for example, to perform a medical intervention such as a stent implantation. Speed is achieved, for example, by the method being optimized for determining the effects of a medical intervention. In some embodiments, results are produced quickly enough to allow use of the method to perform PCI within the same catheterization used to perform diagnostic imaging. | 11-26-2015 |
20150335322 | RETRACTOR/STABILIZER FOR EXCESSIVE AND/OR REDUNDANT TISSUE AND METHOD OF USE - A method for retracting/stabilizing excessive and/or redundant tissue or for compressing redundant tissue comprising adhering a tension member made of a sheet of material having a surface coated with an adhesive which will adhere to the dermis of a patient to a patient. The step of adhering the tension member to the patient includes: adhering a first portion of the tension member to redundant and/or excessive tissue of the patient and adhering a second portion of the tension member to an anchor point on the patient which is spaced from the redundant and/or excessive tissue such that the tension member is adhered to the patient substantially over the entire surface area of the tension member. When the tension member is applied to the patient, the excessive or redundant tissue pulls against the second portion of the tension member thereby placing the tension member in tension. | 11-26-2015 |
20150342472 | METHODS OF ASSESSING THE NORMALCY OF BIOLOGICAL TISSUE - A method of assessing status of a biological tissue includes irradiating an electromagnetic signal, via a probe, into a biological tissue. The irradiated electromagnetic signal is received after being scattered/reflected by the biological tissue. Blood flow information pertaining to the biological tissue is provided, and the received signal is analyzed based at least upon the provided blood flow information and upon knowledge of electromagnetic signal differences in normal, suspicious, and abnormal tissue. Using a dielectric properties reconstruction algorithm, dielectric properties of the biological tissue are reconstructed based at least upon results of the analyzing step and upon blood flow information, and using a tissue properties reconstruction algorithm, tissue properties of the biological tissue are reconstructed based at least in part upon results of the reconstructing step and upon blood flow information. | 12-03-2015 |
20150351639 | SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SUBJECT INFORMATION OBTAINING APPARATUS, AND PROGRAM - A subject information obtaining apparatus includes a light source that emits light, a photoacoustic wave reception unit that receives a photoacoustic wave generated when the light is radiated onto a subject and that outputs a photoacoustic signal, an acoustic wave transmission unit that transmits an acoustic wave to the subject, an echo reception unit that receives an echo of the acoustic wave and that outputs an echo signal, and a signal processing unit that obtains pieces of optical characteristic information regarding the subject on the basis of the photoacoustic signal and pieces of morphological information regarding the subject on the basis of the echo signal. The signal processing unit obtains similarity between the pieces of morphological information, and, if the similarity is equal to or higher than a certain value, combines the pieces of optical characteristic information corresponding to the pieces of morphological information. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351640 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IN VIVO NONINVASIVE MAGNETIC MANIPULATION OF CIRCULATING OBJECTS IN BIOFLOWS - A device and methods for the non-invasive manipulation and detection of target objects such as cells, pathogens, microparticles, and nanoparticles in vivo using an external magnetic field are described. In one aspect, a device and method for capturing and detecting intrinsically magnetic target objects or target objects labeled with at least one magnetic particle within the area of interest using an in vivo flow cytometer are described. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351658 | MEDICAL DEVICE FOR IMAGING AND METHOD FOR OPERATION THEREOF - A medical device has an image generation module to generate an image of a subject, an adjustment module to adjust at least one parameter that is used by the image generation module to generate the image, and an evaluation module to evaluate whether the image generated by the image generation module based on the adjustment of the adjustment module, deviates by a predefined amount from a predefined set value. An access module accesses a memory in which units are stored, with which a specific running sequence for the generation of an image can be run by the image generation module. The access module accesses the memory to download a unit if the evaluation by the evaluation module shows that the image generated by the image generation module on the basis of the adjustment of the adjustment module deviates more than by the predefined amount from a predefined set value. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351684 | OPTIMUM ADMINISTRATION FORM PROVIDING SYSTEM FOR MAGNETIC DRUG - [Object] A system capable of designing an optimum administration form of a magnetic drug is provided. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351688 | Physiological Monitoring Devices Having Sensing Elements Decoupled from Body Motion - A monitoring device includes a biasing element having opposite first and second end portions, an earbud attached to the biasing element first end portion, and a sensing element attached to the biasing element second end portion. The earbud has a first mass, and the sensing element has a second mass that is less than the first mass. The biasing element is configured to urge the sensing element into contact with a portion of the ear when the earbud is inserted into the ear. The biasing element decouples motion of the earbud from the sensing element. The sensing element includes at least one energy emitter configured to direct energy at a target region of the ear and at least one detector configured to detect an energy response signal from the target region or a region adjacent the target region. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351716 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEASURING INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE - An apparatus for measuring intracranial pressure constituted of: a transmitter arranged to transmit a first acoustic signal through a first cranial point; a receiver arranged to receive a second acoustic signal from a second cranial point; and a control circuitry, wherein the control circuitry is arranged to: extract from the detected second acoustic signal a first set of frequency components associated with the transmitted first acoustic signal; extract from the detected second acoustic signal a second set of frequency components associated with intracranial processes; and determine intracranial pressure responsive to the extracted first set of frequency components and the extracted second set of frequency components. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351841 | GUIDED WAVE ABLATION AND SENSING - Systems and methods for the controlled delivery of laser light to target tissue using an improved waveguide. A waveguide controls transmission of wave energy to a target based on direct contact with the target. The waveguide comprises a propagation medium, a cladding causing the electromagnetic wave to be internally reflected in the medium, and an interface formed in the cladding and configured for direct contact with the target. A portion of the laser light penetrates through the cladding at the interface and propagates into the target while a portion internally reflects within the propagation medium. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351861 | SKIN MARKING DEVICE FOR RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING - A skin marking device that can be used in radiographic imaging comprising a platform having a handle, a marking member that extends from the handle over the platform, and radiographic markings. The platform has an opening that one end of the marking member is positioned over. The marking member also has a marking pad deployed on that end. When the marking member is depressed, at least a portion of the marking member extends into the opening in the platform allowing the marking pad to protrude from the opposite side of the platform. In use, the device is placed on or near a patient's skin during radiographic imaging and the radiopaque markings are used to assist in proper placement of the device. Once proper placement is achieved, the marking member is depressed, which presses the marking pad through the opening to mark the patient's skin at the desired location. | 12-10-2015 |
20150351916 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THREE DIMENSIONAL PRINTED IMPLANTATION GUIDES - A process for fabricating size-specific, customized bio-printed musculoskeletal tissue using three dimensional data collected from radiologic imaging is provided. Also, provided is a guide that is created from radiological imaging that demarcates the area of surgical interest. The guide is 3D printed according to guide dimensions collected from radiological imaging, including, but not limited to, CT imaging scans, CT arthrography, ultrasound, MRI, MR arthrography, or any other imaging modality used to image the musculoskeletal system. | 12-10-2015 |
20150359434 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS, SIGNAL PROCESSING METHOD OF PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS, AND PROGRAM - A photoacoustic apparatus includes a light source generating multiple lights with different wavelengths, a converting element receiving photoacoustic waves generated in a subject by the subject being irradiated by the multiple lights, a first distribution obtaining unit obtaining a property distribution based on optical absorption within the subject, for each of the mutually different wavelengths, using time-sequence reception signals each output from the converting element for each of the mutually different wavelengths, a second distribution obtaining unit obtaining, using multiple property distributions based on optical absorption for each wavelength, a concentration-related distribution of a substance of an object region of the subject, and a statistical information obtaining unit obtaining statistical information indicating variance in distribution in at least part of the concentration-related distribution. | 12-17-2015 |
20150359463 | Portable Heart Motion Monitor - The present disclosure describes a method and device to monitor the heart of a subject using radio signals. Availability of a portable heart monitor that can be used in a subject's home can increase patient compliance and improve diagnosis rates of cardiac conditions. A mobile heart monitor can be especially useful to those subjects who are elderly, incapacitated, or do not have easy access to a clinic, doctor's office, or hospital. | 12-17-2015 |
20150359505 | RADIATION IMAGING APPARATUS, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME, AND STORAGE MEDIUM - A radiation imaging apparatus for capturing a radiation image based on radiation which penetrates a subject includes a detection unit and a position determination unit. The detection unit detects a physical quantity which is changed when the radiation imaging apparatus takes an impact. The position determination unit determines an impact position subjected to the impact, based on the physical quantity detected by the detection unit. | 12-17-2015 |
20150359513 | SENSOR ATTACHMENT FOR THREE DIMENSIONAL MAPPING DISPLAY SYSTEMS FOR DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND MACHINES - A sensor attachment for use with three dimensional ultrasound mapping devices is presented. According to the invention, one or more sensors are attached to specific locations on the body, such as the nipple and sternum, the inventive sensor attachments enabling accurate recording of target information, including location and size; the present invention especially helpful in subsequent and comparative examinations. A method of use is also presented. | 12-17-2015 |
20150366458 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FREQUENCY-DOMAIN THERMO-ACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHIC IMAGING - An imaging apparatus ( | 12-24-2015 |
20150366459 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS USED THEREIN - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus provided with: a laser light source; a detection unit that detects a portion of laser light emitted from the laser light source; a determination unit that determines whether or not abnormal emission is contained in the laser light, based on a detection result of the detection unit; a radiation unit that radiates the laser light onto an object; a reception unit that receives acoustic waves that propagate from the object, based on radiation of the laser light; an acquisition unit that acquires information relating to the object, based on a reception result of the reception unit; and a control unit that controls output of the laser light, based on a determination result of the determination unit. | 12-24-2015 |
20150366460 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus, comprising: a laser light source configured to irradiate laser light onto an object; a detector configured to detect a part of the laser light from the laser light source; a receiver configured to receive an acoustic wave that propagate from the object, based on the irradiation of the laser light; and an acquisition unit configured to acquire information relating to the object, based on a reception result of the receiver and a detection result of the detector, wherein the detector detects anomalous emission from the laser light source. | 12-24-2015 |
20150366500 | MEDICAL-IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS - A medical-image processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes an extracting unit, a dividing unit, and an estimating unit. The extracting unit extracts a disease candidate region from a medical image. The dividing unit divides the disease candidate region into multiple partial regions. The estimating unit uses the feature value of each of the partial regions to estimate the disease state of the disease candidate region. | 12-24-2015 |
20150374239 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD OF OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus, comprises a light irradiation unit that irradiates light onto an object and can change an emission direction of the light; a scanning mechanism that moves the light irradiation unit along a first axis; a probe that receives an acoustic wave generated by light irradiated onto the object; a processing unit that generates characteristic information inside the object based on the acoustic wave received by the probe; and a control unit that controls a position of the light irradiation unit on the first axis, and the emission direction of the light emitted from the light irradiation unit, wherein the control unit determines the emission direction of the light emitted from the light irradiation unit based on the position of the light irradiation unit on the first axis. | 12-31-2015 |
20150374276 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CHARACTERIZING TISSUE IN THREE DIMENSIONS USING MULTIMODE OPTICAL MEASUREMENTS - A method and system are provided for characterizing a portion of biological tissue. A surface of the tissue is illuminated with light having a known wavelength spectrum capable of materially penetrating the tissue. The intensity of the illumination light remitted from the tissue in response to the illumination over a known measurement window is measured over a hyperspectral range of wavelengths for at least two distinguishable polarization components. Based on a model of the response of the tissue and the preceding measurements, data representative of the location and one or more characteristics of an abnormal portion of the tissue are produced. A method is provided to eliminate the masking effect of melanin to obtain accurate estimations of an anomaly. | 12-31-2015 |
20150374312 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD - To use an object information acquiring apparatus that has: a plurality of detection elements that detect acoustic waves generated from an object irradiated with light from a light source and output electric signals; a supporting member that supports the plurality of detection elements so that the axes of directivity of at least part of the detection elements gather; an inputting unit that receives an input of a measurement condition from a user; a selecting unit that selects at least part of the plurality of detection elements in response to the measurement condition input by the user; and a processing unit that acquires property information on the inside of the object, using electric signals output from the selected detection elements. | 12-31-2015 |
20160000333 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE PRODUCTION DEVICE - A photoacoustic image production device includes a light source that emits light, a light source driver that causes the light source to emit the light, an ultrasonic wave detector that receives an ultrasonic wave and produces an ultrasonic wave detection signal, an image signal production component that produces an ultrasound image based on the ultrasonic wave detection signal, and a controller that controls the light source driver to stop operation of a booster circuit during a first reception period in which the ultrasonic wave detector receives the ultrasonic wave produced by the light emitted from, the light source. | 01-07-2016 |
20160000395 | Assessing Optical Density Gradients and Variations - The invention relates to a method of assessing an optical density gradient in one or more radiologic images of a non-uniformly composed material for purpose of using the optical density gradient to assess a characteristic of the non-uniformly composed material. Optical density gradient is calculated as a function of the difference in optical density between a first and second region on the one or more images. The method finds particular application in predicting occurrence or likelihood of non-union of a bone fracture and for predicting occurrence of likelihood of a disorder or disease of the bone, such as osteoporosis. | 01-07-2016 |
20160000397 | METHOD FOR ASSESSING STENOSIS SEVERITY THROUGH STENOSIS MAPPING - A method of assessing stenosis severity for a patient includes obtaining patient information relevant to assessing severity of a stenosis, including anatomical imaging data of the patient. Based on the anatomical imaging data, the existence of any lesions of concerns may be identified. A three dimensional image can be generated of any irregular shaped lesion of concern and a surrounding area from the patient anatomical imaging data. A plurality of comparative two dimensional lesion specific models may be created that have conditions that correspond to the three dimensional model. The comparative two dimensional models may represent vessels having regular shaped lesions with each of the comparative two dimensional models represents a different stenosis severity. The three dimensional model can then be mapped to one of the plurality of comparative two dimensional models. After this mapping, a diagnosis of whether the patient has coronary artery disease may be made. | 01-07-2016 |
20160007859 | Coherent Frequency-Domain Microwave-Induced ThermoAcoustic Imaging | 01-14-2016 |
20160007860 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY-INVASIVE OPTICAL-ACOUSTIC IMAGING | 01-14-2016 |
20160007883 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING A RESPIRATION VOLUME SIGNAL FROM IMAGE DATA | 01-14-2016 |
20160007936 | MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS | 01-14-2016 |
20160015274 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME - Provided is a photoacoustic apparatus capable of recognizing variation in reception characteristic among a plurality of receiving elements that detect an acoustic wave in the photoacoustic apparatus, with a simple configuration unique to the photoacoustic apparatus. | 01-21-2016 |
20160015310 | REMOTE DELIVERY AND MONITORING OF HEALTH CARE - Various embodiments for providing remote delivery and monitoring of health care are provided. In one embodiment, A portable apparatus for dermatological monitoring, comprising a housing; an imaging device integrated into the housing, wherein the imaging device is adapted for obtaining a digital, high-resolution, dermatological image of a patient; a processor device integrated into the housing and in communication with the imaging device, wherein the processor device is adapted for applying an anti-motion algorithm to the dermatological image to enhance image quality; and a wireless communications interface integrated into the housing and coupled to the processor device, wherein the wireless communications interface is adapted to upload the dermatological image to a remote server to be viewed by a medical professional. | 01-21-2016 |
20160015349 | IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD - The image processing apparatus includes a processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to obtain first volume data showing a morphological shape of an object and second volume data showing information corresponding to a position spatially different from a position of the object. The processing circuitry is configured to provide the information in the second volume data to the position of the object in the first volume data. | 01-21-2016 |
20160015474 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT TRACKING ASSEMBLY - A surgical instrument tracking assembly includes a trackable target and an adapter that can be rigidly coupled to the trackable target such that the pose of the adapter can be determined from the pose of the trackable target. The tracking assembly also includes stretchable tape for stretchably winding around the adapter and a surgical instrument to provide a tensile clamping force holding the adapter to the surgical instrument in a fixed, stable, spatial relationship so that a pose of the surgical instrument is determinable from the pose of the adapter. The stretchable tape may be highly elastic to provide a long-lasting tensile clamping force, sufficiently strong to resist tearing when being stretched by a human hand, and self-engaging such that once the tape is wound on itself, the long-lasting tensile clamping force of the winding is maintained even when the pulling force is removed. | 01-21-2016 |
20160022149 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus including: a light source; a controller that controls irradiation of light from the light source; a detector that receives an acoustic wave generated from an object onto which light from the light source is irradiated; a processor that generates characteristic information inside the object using the acoustic wave received by the detector; and an acquirer that acquires the shape of the object, wherein the controller controls an irradiation area when light is irradiated from the light source onto the object, based on the shape of the object acquired by the acquirer. | 01-28-2016 |
20160022150 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus disclosed in this specification includes a light source; a probe including a plurality of transducers each configured to receive a photoacoustic wave generated from a subject irradiated with light emitted from the light source and output a reception signal, and a support member configured to support the plurality of transducers so that directivity axes of the plurality of transducers are collected; a moving unit configured to move the probe; a region setting unit configured to set an imaging region; and a processing unit configured to acquire subject information in the imaging region based on the reception signals output from the plurality of transducers. The light source is configured to emit the light if a position at which the directivity axes are collected is farther from the probe than a center of the imaging region. | 01-28-2016 |
20160022157 | Devices and Methods for Monitoring Directional Blood Flow and Pulse Wave Velocity with Photoplethysmography - Provided according to embodiments of the invention are methods of monitoring the direction of blood flow that include processing with a computer photoplethysmography (PPG) signal streams from a sensor array on a body site of the individual to determine the direction and/or velocity of the blood flow at the body site of the individual. In some embodiments, direction of the blood flow at the body site is determined by the phase difference between at least three PPG signal streams from the sensor array, wherein the at least three PPG signal streams are generated from emissions of the at least three emitters. | 01-28-2016 |
20160022371 | Method and System for Automated Therapy Planning for Arterial Stenosis - A method and system for automated decision support for treatment planning of arterial stenoses is disclosed. A set of stenotic lesions is identified in a patient's coronary arteries from medical image data of the patient. A plurality of treatment options are generated for the set of stenotic lesions, wherein each of the plurality of treatment options corresponds to a stenting configuration in which one or more of the stenotic lesions are stented. For each of the plurality of treatment options, predicted hemodynamic metrics for the set of stenotic lesions resulting from the stenting configuration corresponding to that treatment option are calculated. | 01-28-2016 |
20160023207 | IMAGING LITTLE FISH MANAGEMENT DEVICE AND LITTLE FISH IMAGING PLATE USED IN THE SAME - An imaging plate includes a plurality of wells individually accommodating little fishes, and the little fishes inside the wells are imaged from bottom portions of the wells. In order to adjust imaging posture or imaging positions of the little fishes inside the wells, an imaging little fish management device includes a water unit which supplies and discharges water into and from each well of the imaging plate. The water inside each well flows through a discharge hole provided laterally at a lowermost portion of each well. The water unit is also used to breed the little fishes of the wells of the imaging plate. | 01-28-2016 |
20160027178 | IMAGE REGISTRATION SYSTEM WITH NON-RIGID REGISTRATION AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - An image registration system, and a method of operation of an image registration system thereof, including: an imaging unit for obtaining a pre-operation non-invasive imaging volume and for obtaining an intra-operation non-invasive imaging volume; and a processing unit including: a rigid registration module for generating a rigid registered volume based on the pre-operation non-invasive imaging volume, a region of interest module for isolating a region of interest from the intra-operation non-invasive imaging volume, a point generation module, coupled to the region of interest module, for determining feature points of the region of interest, an optimization module, coupled to the point generation module, for matching the feature points with corresponding points of the rigid registered volume for generating a matched point cloud, and an interpolation module, coupled to the optimization module, for generating a non-rigid registered volume based on the matched point cloud for display on a display interface. | 01-28-2016 |
20160029895 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - The present invention uses an object information acquiring apparatus having: an optical transmitter that transmits light and emits the light to an object; a first optical meter disposed at the incidence side of the optical transmitter; a second optical meter disposed at the emission side of the optical transmitter; a calculator that calculates an equation that indicates the relationship between the fluence of light measured by the first optical meter and the fluence of light measured by the second optical meter; a probe that receives an acoustic wave that is generated from the object due to the light emitted by the optical transmitter and converts the acoustic wave; and a processor that acquires specific information about the inside of the object. | 02-04-2016 |
20160029988 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CHARACTERISING A BONE TISSUE - A method is provided for the characterization of a bone tissue with an imaging device, including:
| 02-04-2016 |
20160038251 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING PERSONALIZED VASCULAR IMPLANTS FROM PATIENT-SPECIFIC ANATOMIC IMAGE DATA - Embodiments include methods of identifying a personalized cardiovascular device based on patient-specific geometrical information, the method comprising acquiring a geometric model of at least a portion of a patient's vascular system; obtaining one or more geometric quantities of one or more blood vessels of the geometric model of the patient's vascular system; determining the presence or absence of a pathology characteristic at a location in the geometric model of the patient's vascular system; generating an objective function defined by a plurality of device variables and a plurality of hemodynamic and solid mechanics characteristics; and optimizing the objective function using computational fluid dynamics and structural mechanics analysis to identify a plurality of device variables that result in desired hemodynamic and solid mechanics characteristics. | 02-11-2016 |
20160045162 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES HAVING STRETCHABLE INTEGRATED CIRCUITRY FOR SENSING AND DELIVERING THERAPY - System, devices and methods are presented that integrate stretchable or flexible circuitry, including arrays of active devices for enhanced sensing, diagnostic, and therapeutic capabilities. The invention enables conformal sensing contact with tissues of interest, such as the inner wall of a lumen, a the brain, or the surface of the heart. Such direct, conformal contact increases accuracy of measurement and delivery of therapy. Further, the invention enables the incorporation of both sensing and therapeutic devices on the same substrate allowing for faster treatment of diseased tissue and fewer devices to perform the same procedure. | 02-18-2016 |
20160045279 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE LOCATION AND ORIENTATION OF A FIDUCIAL REFERENCE - A method for determining the 3D location and orientation of a fiducial reference comprises disposing the fiducial reference so as to render a part of the fiducial reference observable by a tracker; obtaining from the tracker scan data of the part of the fiducial reference that is observable by the tracker; obtaining predetermined geometric information about location points on the fiducial reference, the geometric information containing three-dimensional coordinates of the location points relative to the structure of the fiducial reference; identifying within the scan data at least three location points having coordinates in the predetermined geometric information; and determining from the scan data and the coordinates of the three identified location points in the predetermined geometric information the 3D location and orientation of the fiducial reference. | 02-18-2016 |
20160051148 | Optoacoustic Imaging Device - An optoacoustic imaging device has a light source module which irradiates a tested object with light, a light source driver which drives and controls the light source module, a detector which detects an optoacoustic wave generated inside the tested object as a result of the tested object being irradiated with the light, an image generator which generates still image information based on a detection signal from the detector, and an acquirer which acquires an organ pulsation signal. The organ pulsation signal is used as a trigger to make the light source driver drive the light source module and to make the image generator generate the still image information. | 02-25-2016 |
20160051149 | Photoacoustic Probe for Burn Injury Diagnosis - A method and apparatus for depth profiling the structure of a subsurface region of skin, in particular burned skin, wherein the method/apparatus comprises directing laser light at an absorbing target to generate ultrasonic sound waves, which are used to determine the sound speed in the skin, and using the determined sound speed in conjunction with two-wavelength photoacoustics to depth profile of the structure of the subsurface of the skin. | 02-25-2016 |
20160051198 | SYSTEM FOR MONITORING USER UTILIZING PULSE SIGNAL - The present disclosure herein relates to a system for monitoring a user using a pulse signal. An user monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise a transmitter configured to transmit a pulse signal through at least one antenna at different times; and a biosignal measuring device comprising a receiver for receiving and restoring the pulse signal that has passed through a subject through at least one antenna and a processing unit for processing the pulse signal to analyze at least one of a bandwidth, a center frequency or an amplitude of the pulse signal and for measuring a biosignal of the subject on the basis of a result of analysis. | 02-25-2016 |
20160051323 | DEVICE AND METHODS FOR CROSSING OCCLUSIONS - The invention provides devices with integrated intravascular imaging and methods for crossing a CTO within the true lumen of a vessel. An interventional catheter with intravascular imaging capabilities can be guided into an affected vessel and to a CTO. An included intravascular imaging device captures a 3D image of the environment. The catheter includes a crossing member that can be extended out from a distal tip of the catheter, causing the crossing member to directly cross through the CTO creating a new channel through the CTO. | 02-25-2016 |
20160058289 | Optoacoustic Wave Detector and Optoacoustic Imaging Device - An optoacoustic imaging device has an optoacoustic wave detector, a cross-sectional image generator, and an image former. The optoacoustic wave detector has a light source for irradiating a light absorber inside a tested object with light, and has an acoustoelectric converter. The acoustoelectric converter detects, and generates a detection signal of, an optoacoustic wave generated by the light absorber. The acoustoelectric converter has a plurality of detecting elements arrayed one-dimensionally, and the light source includes light-emitting elements arranged at least between adjacent ones of the detecting elements. The cross-sectional image generator generates a cross-sectional image of the tested object based on the detection signal, and the image former forms an optoacoustic image based on the cross-sectional image. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058290 | Photoacoustic Imager - This photoacoustic imager includes a light source portion and a detection portion, and is configured to set pulsed light emitted by the light source portion to a pulse width tw expressed in the following expression, assuming that fmax represents the maximum frequency of an acoustic wave A detected by the detection portion: | 03-03-2016 |
20160058291 | Photoacoustic Imager - In this photoacoustic imager, a light source driving portion is configured to stop power supply to a plurality of light-emitting semiconductor elements on the basis of that a forward voltage detection portion has detected forward voltage values of the plurality of light-emitting semiconductor elements corresponding to short circuiting of the light-emitting semiconductor elements. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058292 | Photoacoustic Imager - This photoacoustic imager includes a light-emitting element, an acoustic wave detection portion and a light source driving portion, and the light source driving portion is configured to substantially null the value of current flowing in the light-emitting element by stopping supplying power to the light-emitting element on the basis of that the value of the current flowing in the light-emitting element has reached a prescribed current value. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058293 | Photoacoustic Imager - This photoacoustic imager includes a detection portion, a light-emitting semiconductor element light source portion arranged in proximity to the detection portion, and a sealing portion configured to propagate an acoustic wave generated by a detection object to the detection portion by sealing a surface of the detection portion on a front side in a detection direction where a specimen is arranged with respect to the detection portion and arranged on the front side in the detection direction where the specimen is arranged with respect to the detection portion. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058294 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus includes: a receiving element configured to receive an acoustic wave generated by emission of light from a light source on an object and output an electric signal; an amplifying unit configured to amplify the electric signal; a scanning unit configured to move relative positions of the receiving element and the object; a controlling unit configured to determine a gain of the amplifying unit according to time when the receiving element receives the acoustic wave; and a processing unit configured to acquire characteristics information on the object, using the electric signal. The controlling unit determines the gain of the amplifying unit according to a positional relation between the receiving element and the object. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058295 | PHOTOACOUSTIC WAVE MEASUREMENT APPARATUS AND PHOTOACOUSTIC WAVE MEASUREMENT METHOD - A measurement region of an object on which irradiation of light is performed and detection of photoacoustic waves is controlled is set based on positional information of a specific region within a captured surface image of the object. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058296 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR LOCATING AT LEAST ONE TARGET IN AN ELECTROMAGNETICALLY ABSORBENT ENVIRONMENT - A method for locating at least one target, in an electromagnetically absorbent environment, includes: emitting at least one electromagnetic excitation signal from a source; receiving, by an acoustic sensor, an acoustic signal from emission of the excitation signal; detecting, in the received acoustic signal, a first time of receipt of a first response to the excitation signal from an acoustic disturbance caused by electromagnetic heterogeneity of the target in the environment; estimating a first distance between the target and the acoustic sensor using the first time of receipt; detecting, in the same received acoustic signal, a second time of receipt of a second response to the excitation signal from an acoustic disturbance caused by acoustic heterogeneity of the target in the environment; estimating a second distance between the source and target using the second time of receipt; obtaining a location of the target from the first and second estimated distances. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058297 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IN VIVO FLOW CYTOMETRY USING THE DETECTION OF PHOTOACOUSTIC WAVES - A photoacoustic flow cytometry (PAFC) device for the in vivo detection of cells circulating in blood or lymphatic vessels is described. Ultrasound transducers attached to the skin of an organism detect the photoacoustic ultrasound waves emitted by target objects in response to their illumination by at least one pulse of laser energy delivered using at least one wavelength. The wavelengths of the laser light pulse may be varied to optimize the absorption of the laser energy by the target object. Target objects detected by the device may be unlabelled biological cells or cell products, contrast agents, or biological cells labeled with one or more contrast agents. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058387 | IMAGING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR, AND LIGHTING SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR - The disclosure provides at least one imaging apparatus, at least one lighting system, one or more methods of controlling same and one or more storage mediums. In one or more embodiments of the at least one imaging apparatus, the at least one lighting system, control methods therefor and storage mediums, an identification unit configured to identify a timing in an extinction period of a first illumination light at or during which an operator who performs a work on an object does not recognize an extinction of the first illumination light, and an image pickup unit configured to perform imaging of the object at the timing in the extinction period identified by the identification unit to pick up the object image, are provided. | 03-03-2016 |
20160058423 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INTERPOLATING LESION DETECTION - There is provided an apparatus for interpolating a lesion area when diagnosis is performed in a Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) system using consecutive images. According to an example, the apparatus includes: an image receiver configured to receive images sequentially; an image matcher configured to match a current image with reference images, and to determine whether to interpolate a lesion area in the current image based on a matching result; and a lesion area acquirer configured to interpolate or acquire the lesion area in the current image according to a result of the determination. | 03-03-2016 |
20160066792 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus employed in the present invention includes: a plurality of transducers that generate an electric signal upon reception of an acoustic wave from a measurement subject; a supporter that supports the plurality of transducers such that directional axes of at least a part of the plurality of transducers are gathered together; a point sound source; means for controlling relative positions of the measurement subject and the supporter; a processor that determines respective distances from the plurality of transducers to a focus position of the measurement subject and generates property information relating to the focus position; and a corrector that determines correction data. | 03-10-2016 |
20160066793 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - An object information acquiring apparatus including a receiver provided with: a plurality of detecting elements which receive an acoustic wave from an object and generate an electrical signal and provided with a container-shaped supporter which supports the plurality of detecting elements; and a tank which holds an acoustic matching liquid; and a flow path which connects the tank with a liquid inlet port and a liquid discharge port provided in the receiver, the object information acquiring apparatus further including: a liquid circulator which controls a flow of the acoustic matching liquid; a UV irradiator which irradiates the acoustic matching liquid with ultraviolet light onto; and a processor which uses the electrical signal to generate property information on the interior of the object. | 03-10-2016 |
20160066795 | STENOSIS THERAPY PLANNING - The present invention relates to stenosis therapy planning. A first volumetric data set is received by medical imaging of at least part of an artery comprising a stenosis. At least one two-dimensional image data (of the stenosis is received. A first arterial pressure drop is determined around the stenosis. A second volumetric data set is generated by registering the at least one two-dimensional image data with the first volumetric data set. A third volumetric data set is generated by simulating a geometry modification of the stenosis in the second volumetric data set and a second arterial pressure drop is estimated around the stenosis in the third volumetric data set. | 03-10-2016 |
20160073888 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - In a photoacoustic apparatus, a light source irradiates an inspection target with pulsed light; a detector detects acoustic waves generated in the inspection target due to interaction of the pulsed light with the inspection target, and outputs detection signals corresponding to the detected acoustic waves; a light-quantity measurement unit measures the quantity of the light output from the light source; and a signal processor obtains information on an inside of the inspection target by using the detection signals output from the detector. The signal processor also corrects intensities of the detection signals so as to suppress variations in intensities of the detection signals caused by a temporal change in the quantity of the light. | 03-17-2016 |
20160073919 | METHOD, ECG MEASURING DEVICE, AND MEDICAL IMAGING DEVICE FOR DETERMINING AN R-WAVE IN AN ECG SIGNAL - In a method for determining R-waves in an ECG signal, at least one reference ECG signal is measured, at least one reference breathing signal is measured, at least one reference R-wave is determined using the reference ECG signal and the reference breathing signal, at least one reference value is determined using the reference ECG signal and the reference breathing signal, at least one comparison rule is credited based on the at least one reference value, ECG signals are measured and breathing signals are measured in which R-waves are to be determined, the measured ECG signals and breathing signals are compared with the at least one reference value using the at least one comparison rule, and at least one R-wave is determined using the measured ECG signals and breathing signals. | 03-17-2016 |
20160073962 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR TRACKING AND COMPENSATING FOR PATIENT MOTION DURING A MEDICAL IMAGING SCAN - A motion compensation system for tracking and compensating for patient motion during a medical imaging scan comprises an optical marker comprising an optically visible pattern and a mounting portion; a first optical detector positioned to digitally image the optically visible pattern along a first line of sight; a second optical detector positioned to digitally image the optically visible pattern along a second line of sight; a tracking engine configured to determine a pose of the object in six degrees of freedom by analyzing images from the first and second optical detectors; and a controller interface configured to generate tracking information based on the pose and to electronically transmit the tracking information to a scanner controller to enable compensation within a medical imaging scanner for object motion. | 03-17-2016 |
20160073980 | IMAGING APPARATUS AND POSITIONING APPARATUS - An imaging apparatus and a positioning apparatus that include an imaging unit for imaging a detected part of a body to be detected; and a distance positioning unit having at least two signal positioning devices, i.e., a signal generator and a signal detector, wherein one signal positioning device is arranged at the detected part, the other signal positioning device is arranged at a position where a predetermined position relationship exists relative to the imaging unit. The position of the detected part in at least one direction in a three-dimensional space relative to the imaging unit is obtained according to a measured distance between the two signal positioning devices. The imaging apparatus and the positioning apparatus reduce pre-positioning imaging sequence workload, and the risk of radiation on the body to be detected is avoided. | 03-17-2016 |
20160073991 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMAGE PROCESSING AND PATIENT-SPECIFIC MODELING OF BLOOD FLOW - Embodiments include a system for determining cardiovascular information for a patient. The system may include at least one computer system configured to receive patient-specific data regarding a geometry of the patient's heart, and create a three-dimensional model representing at least a portion of the patient's heart based on the patient-specific data. The at least one computer system may be further configured to create a physics-based model relating to a blood flow characteristic of the patient's heart and determine a fractional flow reserve within the patient's heart based on the three-dimensional model and the physics-based model. | 03-17-2016 |
20160081557 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING PROBE - Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a photoacoustic imaging probe including a light transmitting unit configured to transmit light to a target subject to be inspected and an acoustic-wave receiving unit configured to receive an acoustic wave generated from the target subject by being irradiated with the light and to accommodate the light transmitting unit therein in a manner that a first side of the light transmitting unit is exposed to outside. | 03-24-2016 |
20160081558 | METHOD OF PHOTOACOUSTIC MICROSCOPY WITH LATERAL RESOLUTION OF MICROVASCULATURE - A method for obtaining a 3-D OR-PAM image of microvasculature within a region of interest of a subject is provided. The method includes: focusing a first light pulse at a first depth beneath a first surface position within the region of interest; receiving a first PA signal in response to the first light pulse; focusing a second light pulse at a second depth beneath the first surface position within the region of interest; receiving a second PA signal in response to the second light pulse; and forming the 3-D OR-PAM image by combining the first PA signal and the second PA signal. | 03-24-2016 |
20160089052 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MEASURING BIOMETRIC DATA USING UWB RADAR - A method and device for measuring biometric data using a UWB radar are disclosed. The disclosed method includes: (a) determining a respiratory rate by using reflection signals reflected off a target patient; (b) extracting respiration signals from the reflection signals, removing the extracted respiration signals from the reflection signals and converting into signals of a frequency domain; and (c) determining a heartbeat rate by detecting peak values from the frequency-domain signals converted in said step (b). | 03-31-2016 |
20160089074 | VERTEBRA SEGMENTATION APPARATUS, METHOD AND RECORDING MEDIUM - An intervertebral foramen position detection unit detects positions of intervertebral foramens in a three-dimensional medical image including plural vertebrae. In this case, for example, a feature value representing a likelihood of an intervertebral foramen is used. A vertebra identification unit identifies each of the plural vertebrae by using the detected positions of the intervertebral foramens, respectively. | 03-31-2016 |
20160095520 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING PHOTOACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY - A method and apparatus are provided for performing photoacoustic tomography with respect to a sample that receives a pulse of excitation electromagnetic radiation and generates an acoustic field in response to said pulse. One embodiment provides an apparatus comprising an acoustically sensitive surface, wherein the acoustic field generated in response to said pulse is incident upon said acoustically sensitive surface to form a signal. The apparatus further comprises a source for directing an interrogation beam of electromagnetic radiation onto said acoustically sensitive surface so as to be modulated by the signal; means for applying a sensitivity pattern to the interrogation beam; and a read-out system for receiving the interrogation beam from the acoustically sensitive surface and for determining a value representing a spatial integral of the signal across the acoustically sensitive surface, wherein said spatial integral is weighted by the applied sensitivity pattern. The apparatus is configured to apply a sequence of sensitivity patterns to the interrogation beam and to determine a respective sequence of values for said weighted spatial integral for generating a photoacoustic image. | 04-07-2016 |
20160095558 | RADIATION THERAPY SYSTEMS THAT INCLUDE PRIMARY RADIATION SHIELDING, AND MODULAR SECONDARY RADIATION SHIELDS - Radiation therapy systems and their components, including secondary radiation shields. At least some versions of the disclosed systems combine a radiation delivery device, a primary radiation shielding device, and a secondary shielding layer into an integrated, modular unit. This is accomplished by using a small direct beam shield capable of blocking a primary beam from a radiation delivery device. In turn, a thinner shielding layer can be used to surround the radiation delivery device and primary shielding device, enabling a single modular unit to be delivered to an installation site. In some embodiments, a bed may be disposed within the secondary shielding layer. In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide up to 4-pi (4π) steradians of radiation coverage to the bed from the radiation delivery device. | 04-07-2016 |
20160095576 | DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTING APPARATUS AND DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTING METHOD - Provided are a diagnosis supporting apparatus and a diagnosis supporting method that analyzes characteristics of medical examinations and supports diagnosis, in which examination characteristics of a practitioner may be analyzed by comparing the characteristics with a reference examination, thereby enabling accurate and efficient diagnosis. The diagnosis supporting apparatus includes: an examination path acquiring component configured to acquire an examination path of an examination device; an examination characteristic analyzer configured to analyze characteristics of the examination based on the acquired examination path by using reference examination information; and a diagnosis component configured to determine an analysis point based on the reference examination and the analyzed examination characteristics, and to obtain a diagnosis with respect to one or more images that relate to the analysis point on the examination path. | 04-07-2016 |
20160106321 | Method and System for Machine Learning Based Assessment of Fractional Flow Reserve - A method and system for determining fractional flow reserve (FFR) for a coronary artery stenosis of a patient is disclosed. In one embodiment, medical image data of the patient including the stenosis is received, a set of features for the stenosis is extracted from the medical image data of the patient, and an FFR value for the stenosis is determined based on the extracted set of features using a trained machine-learning based mapping. In another embodiment, a medical image of the patient including the stenosis of interest is received, image patches corresponding to the stenosis of interest and a coronary tree of the patient are detected, an FFR value for the stenosis of interest is determined using a trained deep neural network regressor applied directly to the detected image patches. | 04-21-2016 |
20160106374 | Photoacoustic Wave Signal Converter and Probe Incorporating Photoacoustic Wave Signal Converter - A photoacoustic wave signal converter includes a receiving portion that receives a photoacoustic wave signal generated from a detection object in a specimen that has absorbed light, detected by an ultrasonic probe and a signal conversion portion that generates a conversion signal corresponding to an ultrasonic signal generated when the ultrasonic probe receives an ultrasonic wave on the basis of the photoacoustic wave signal received by the receiving portion and outputs the conversion signal that is generated to an ultrasonic imager. | 04-21-2016 |
20160113506 | ACOUSTIC WAVE DETECTION DEVICE AND ACOUSTIC WAVE DETECTION METHOD - An acoustic wave detection device comprises an interference film formed of two opposing reflective layers; a first light source configured to irradiate light to the interference film and capable of changing a wavelength of the light; a photodetector configured to detect an intensity of reflected light; a signal acquisition unit configured to acquire an electrical signal based on a change of the intensity of the reflected light; a wavelength acquisition unit configured to acquire a reference wavelength, which is a wavelength of the measurement light emitted when measurement is performed on a first point on the interference film; and a wavelength control unit configured to determine the wavelength of the measurement light emitted when the measurement is performed on a second point on the interference film based on the reference wavelength. | 04-28-2016 |
20160113580 | HEADSET DEVICE AND METHOD MEASURING A BIOSIGNAL USING THE HEADSET DEVICE - A headset device includes a headset body, a connection unit to move relative to the headset body, and a sensor unit having a light emitting element and a light receiving element to sense a biosignal, the sensor unit mounted to the connection unit to make contact with a human body. The sensor unit may measure a biosignal of a user, and the headset body and the sensor unit are indirectly connected by the connection unit. Accordingly, the sensor unit may be isolated from movement or vibration received through the headset body. | 04-28-2016 |
20160113598 | IMAGING SYSTEM SUBJECT SUPPORT TABLETOP DEFLECTION DELTA CORRECTION - An imaging system ( | 04-28-2016 |
20160121140 | AUTOMATIC CORRELATION MODELING OF AN INTERNAL TARGET - A method and apparatus to automatically control the timing of an image acquisition by an imaging system in developing a correlation model of movement of a target within a patient. | 05-05-2016 |
20160121141 | AUTOMATIC CORRELATION MODELING OF AN INTERNAL TARGET - A method and apparatus to automatically control the timing of an image acquisition by an imaging system in developing a correlation model of movement of a target within a patient. | 05-05-2016 |
20160128578 | System And Method For Synthesis Of Impedance Matching And Signal Converting Material For All Optical Photo-Acoustic Detection - A system and method is disclosed for non-contact detection and/or imaging and/or monitoring target subsurface tissue of at least one of human or animal anatomy. The system applies a first optical excitation signal to an outer tissue surface at a first location on the anatomy, which excites the target subsurface tissue to produce acoustic signals which are transmitted to an outer tissue surface of the anatomy. A gel-like, impedance matching and signal converting (IMASC) material layer is applied to the outer tissue surface at a second location on the anatomy. The IMASC material layer contains material elements which are able to influence characteristics of an optical signal impinging and reflected from the IMASC material, in accordance with acoustic signals that have been reflected from the target subsurface tissue, and which propagate into the IMASC material. An optical ultrasound detection system is used to process the reflected optical signals reflected from the IMASC material to provide information that may be used to provide an image of the target subsurface tissue. | 05-12-2016 |
20160128579 | PROBE AND SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A probe includes a plurality of element groups, the element group including a first element and a plurality of second elements which are arranged in a first direction, the plurality of element groups being arranged in a second direction intersecting with the first direction. An acoustic lens having a curvature in the first direction is arranged on the first element. When transmission and reception based on a pulse echo technique are performed, the transmission and reception are performed with respect to the subject by using only the first element, and when reception of a photoacoustic wave is performed, the reception from the subject is performed by using the entire element group constituted by the first element and the plurality of second elements. | 05-12-2016 |
20160128787 | USER INTERFACE FOR A BIOPSY UNIT - The present invention relates to operating a biopsy unit. In order to provide an enhanced and facilitated way of controlling a biopsy unit, a control device ( | 05-12-2016 |
20160135688 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus including: a holding member that has a curvature and holds an object; a conversion element that receives an acoustic wave propagating from the object via the holding member and outputs an electrical signal; a driving unit that moves at least one of the conversion element and the holding member so that an acoustic wave reception surface of the conversion element is not parallel to a tangential plane of the holding member at a position at which a normal line of the acoustic wave reception surface drawn from the conversion element crosses the holding member; and an information processor that acquires specific information inside the object using the electrical signal. | 05-19-2016 |
20160135689 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGE-GENERATING APPARATUS AND LIGHT SOURCE CONTROL METHOD - At least a tip portion of a puncture needle | 05-19-2016 |
20160135757 | PERCUTANEOUS CORONARY INTERVENTION (PCI) PLANNING INTERFACE WITH PRESSURE DATA AND VESSEL DATA AND ASSOCIATED DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - Devices, systems, and methods directed to evaluating a vessel of a patient are provided. The method includes outputting, to a display, a screen display including: a visual representation of a pressure ratio of pressure measurements obtained by first and second instruments positioned within a vessel while the second instrument is moved longitudinally through the vessel and the first instrument remains stationary within the vessel; and a visual representation of the vessel; receiving a user input to modify one of the visual representations of the pressure ratio and the vessel to simulate a therapeutic procedure; and updating the screen display, in response to the user input, including: modifying the selected one of the visual representation of the pressure ratio and the vessel based on the received user input; and correspondingly modifying the unselected one of the visual representation of the pressure ratio and the vessel. | 05-19-2016 |
20160143542 | Minimally Invasive Optical Photoacoustic Endoscopy with a Single Waveguide for Light and Sound - An endoscopic device for photoacoustic imaging, including a multimode optical fiber having a distal end and a proximal end, a light source to provide a light beam to the proximal end of the multimode optical fiber, a transducer to capture acoustic waves that are emitted from the proximal end of the multimode optical fiber, and a processing device to generate a photoacoustic image based on data from the captured acoustic waves captured by the transducer, wherein the distal end of the multimode optical fiber is configured to be inserted into a sample, the sample generating the acoustic waves by a photoacoustic effect. | 05-26-2016 |
20160143557 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING A VALUE OF A PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTIC - There is provided a measurement apparatus for estimating a value of a physiological characteristic of a subject. The apparatus comprises a radio-frequency (RF) power generating apparatus, a detector, and a controller in communication with the RF power generating apparatus. The RF power generating apparatus comprises a transmit antenna for emitting RF radiation; an RF signal generator; and a transmission line connecting the RF signal generator to the transmit antenna. The detector is arranged to measure the variation of at least one parameter correlated with attenuation of the emitted RF radiation, during the measurement period. The controller is arranged to: cause the RF power generating apparatus to emit RF radiation during a measurement period; receive measurements of the variation of the at least one parameter from the detector; and calculate a value of a physiological characteristic of a subject based on the received measurements. | 05-26-2016 |
20160143608 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANIPULATING MEDICAL DEVICE OPERATING PARAMETERS ON DIFFERENT LEVELS OF GRANULARITY - Various embodiments include a system and method for manipulating medical device operating parameters, stored in a hierarchical organization, at different levels of granularity. The method can include receiving, at a processor, first user input selecting an operating parameter of a medical device from a medical device user interface displayed at a display system. The method may include presenting, at the display system, a parameter presentation prompted by the operating parameter selection. In various embodiments, a plurality of setting values each corresponding to a different hierarchical level of the operating parameter is presented in the parameter presentation. The method may include receiving, at the processor, second user input manipulating a value of one of the setting values presented in the parameter presentation. The method can also include storing, at storage, the value of the manipulated setting value. | 05-26-2016 |
20160143612 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE FOR AUSCULTATION - The present disclosure provides a medical/healthcare system which comprises an electronic stethoscope and a medical host under a medical/healthcare environment. The electronic stethoscope comprises an auscultation module for recording a sound from internal body of a patient to form an auscultation data, a reader for obtaining a patient information from the patient, a processor module to receive and associate the patient information to the auscultation data to form an auscultation file, a storage for storing the auscultation file, a display module to display the auscultation file for selection, a control input interface for selecting the auscultation file for playback, an output module for playing the auscultation file by outputting the sound corresponding to the auscultation file when selected, and a power module to provide electricity to all the others. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150967 | PHOTOACOUSTIC DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC DEVICE | 06-02-2016 |
20160150968 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS | 06-02-2016 |
20160150969 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS, SUBJECT-INFORMATION ACQUISITION METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 06-02-2016 |
20160150970 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS | 06-02-2016 |
20160150971 | SIGNAL PROCESSING METHOD, ACOUSTIC WAVE PROCESSING APPARATUS, AND RECORDING MEDIUM | 06-02-2016 |
20160150972 | SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS | 06-02-2016 |
20160150974 | PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING METHOD AND PHOTOACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS | 06-02-2016 |
20160150990 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS, SUBJECT INFORMATION ACQUISITION METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 06-02-2016 |
20160150991 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS | 06-02-2016 |
20160157729 | ACOUSTIC IMAGING APPARATUS - An acoustic imaging apparatus includes an image forming unit including a transducer array that includes a downwardly recessed portion on which a plurality of transducers, which include reception surfaces that receive acoustic waves generated by a subject, are arranged. The image forming unit forms an image based on outputs from the transducers. Impedance matching liquid is disposed on the inner side of the transducer array. A cover member is connected to the vessel and covers the transducer array at a side opposite to a side at which the reception surfaces are arranged so that a vessel and the cover member form a housing space that accommodates the transducers. The transducers are provided with signal lines through which electric signals based on the received acoustic waves are output and which extend from the housing space to the outside through a waterproof member. | 06-09-2016 |
20160157730 | ACOUSTIC WAVE DETECTION PROBE AND PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS PROVIDED WITH THE SAME - In an acoustic wave detection probe provided with a light guide section that guides measuring light such that the measuring light is outputted toward a subject and an acoustic wave transducer that detects a photoacoustic wave generated in the subject by the projection of the measuring light, the light guide section includes a homogenizer that flat-tops an energy profile of the measuring light entered from the upstream side of the optical system, a light condensing member that condenses the measuring light transmitted through the homogenizer, and a bundle fiber which includes a plurality of optical fibers and is disposed such that the measuring light transmitted through the light condensing member enters from an entrance end of the bundle fiber. | 06-09-2016 |
20160158573 | DEVICE FOR TREATING THE VAGINAL CANAL OR OTHER NATURAL OR SURGICALLY OBTAINED ORIFICES, AND RELATED APPARATUS - The device for treating the vaginal canal by means of a laser beam comprises a retractor for the wall of the vaginal canal, associated with a scanning system for scanning the laser beam towards the wall by means of a pyramidal mirror for laser beam reflection. | 06-09-2016 |
20160166196 | CHARACTERIZING LIFE QUALITY OF A LIVING ENTITY VIA HYPER-SPECTRAL IMAGING AND ANALYSIS, AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF | 06-16-2016 |
20160166353 | IMAGING SYSTEM FOR GENERATING A RENDERED IMAGE | 06-16-2016 |
20160174849 | OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND PROCESSING METHOD | 06-23-2016 |
20160174850 | RECEIVED DATA PROCESSING APPARATUS OF PHOTOACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY | 06-23-2016 |
20160174895 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMAGING CHANGES IN TISSUE | 06-23-2016 |
20160175052 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC ESTIMATION OF UTILITY OF ADAPTIVE RADIATION THERAPY RE-PLANNING | 06-23-2016 |
20160183806 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS - A photoacoustic apparatus that improves absorption coefficient measurement accuracy by obtaining information on a subject after performing correction in accordance with amounts of light emitted to the subject includes a photoacoustic wave detection unit that detects photoacoustic waves generated from a subject when a light source irradiates the subject with light and output detection signals and a signal processing unit that performs signal processing to obtain information on the subject in accordance with the detection signals. The signal processing unit obtains information on the subject after performing correction in accordance with amounts of light emitted to the subject. | 06-30-2016 |
20160183903 | INPUT DEVICE, METHOD, AND SYSTEM FOR GENERATING A CONTROL SIGNAL FOR A MEDICAL DEVICE - Method and system for generating a control signal for operating a medical device using an input device located in a determined environment, wherein the input device comprises an input sensor for generating instructions for the medical device. The method comprises identifying the orientation or location of the input device in the determined environment generating a parameter linked to the identified location or orientation of the input device in the determined environment; using the identified orientation of the medical device or the identified location of the input device to identify a relative orientation of the input device with respect to the medical device; generating a parameter linked to said relative orientation of the input device with respect to the medical device; using the input device to generate an input signal relating to an instruction for the medical device; and using the input signal in combination with the parameter to obtain the control signal for the medical device. | 06-30-2016 |
20160192840 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ACQUIRING FUSION IMAGE | 07-07-2016 |
20160192843 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS | 07-07-2016 |
20160192879 | BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION MEASURING MODULE AND BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION MEASURING DEVICE | 07-07-2016 |
20160192991 | MEDICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE DISPLAYS FOR CONTROLLING A TREATMENT SYSTEM | 07-07-2016 |
20160193010 | MEDICAL ROBOTIC AND/OR CATHETER CONTROL SYSTEM | 07-07-2016 |
20160198954 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PHOTOACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY USING OPTICAL ORBITAL ANGULAR MOMENTUM (OAM) | 07-14-2016 |
20160199135 | METHOD FOR EVALUATING TREATMENT-RELEVANT SPATIAL INFORMATION | 07-14-2016 |
20160249807 | THREE-DIMENSIONAL PLANTAR IMAGING APPARATUS AND MEMBRANE ASSEMBLY FOR USE IN THE SAME | 09-01-2016 |
20160249812 | SINGLE-CELL LABEL-FREE PHOTOACOUSTIC FLOWOXIGRAPHY IN VIVO | 09-01-2016 |
20160249850 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIAGNOSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF DISC DERANGEMENT DISORDERS | 09-01-2016 |
20160249988 | SURGICAL REFERENCING APPARATUS, SURGICAL NAVIGATION SYSTEM AND METHOD | 09-01-2016 |
20160253468 | MEASUREMENT VALUE MANAGEMENT APPARATUS, METHOD FOR OPERATING MEASUREMENT VALUE MANAGEMENT APPARATUS, AND MEASUREMENT VALUE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM | 09-01-2016 |
20160374760 | Method and System for Interactive 3D Scope Placement and Measurements for Kidney Stone Removal Procedure - The present teaching relates to interactive medical image processing for surgical procedure planning. In one example, a three dimensional (3D) image of a kidney is obtained. The three dimensional image is rendered on a display screen. An input is received from a user specifying a location with respect to a representation of the kidney in the rendered three dimensional image. A representation of an instrument is rendered on the display screen based on the location. The instrument is automatically aligned with an infundibulum pathway of calyx at the location with respect to the kidney. A graphical line extension is rendered on the display screen to visualize the alignment of the instrument. One or more measurements related to the kidney are determined based on the location and an anatomical structure of the kidney. | 12-29-2016 |
20170231503 | Photo-Acoustic Imaging Device | 08-17-2017 |
20170231592 | HANDLING UNDETERMINED QUANTIFIABLE LESIONS | 08-17-2017 |
20180020955 | INTRINSIC FREQUENCY ANALYSIS FOR LEFT VENTRICLE EJECTION FRACTION OR STROKE VOLUME DETERMINATION | 01-25-2018 |
20180021544 | Catheter-Based User Interface Device For Remote Control Of Display Images | 01-25-2018 |
20180024047 | ELASTIC WAVE RECEIVING APPARATUS, ELASTIC WAVE RECEIVING METHOD, PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS, AND PROGRAM | 01-25-2018 |
20190142277 | PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS AND OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING METHOD | 05-16-2019 |
20190142278 | INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 05-16-2019 |
20190142289 | ROBUST REAL-TIME HEART RATE MONITORING METHOD BASED ON HEARTBEAT HARMONICS USING SMALL-SCALE RADAR | 05-16-2019 |
20190142388 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING AN ULTRASOUND DEVICE WITH IMAGING PARAMETER VALUES | 05-16-2019 |