35th week of 2013 patent applcation highlights part 64 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20130225890 | Liquid Phase Alkylation Process - The present invention provides a process for producing a monoalkylated aromatic compound comprising the step of contacting an alkylatable aromatic compound with an alkylating agent in the presence of a catalyst composition under effective alkylation conditions, said catalyst composition comprising MCM-56 and a binder, such that the crystal/binder weight ratio in the catalyst composition is from above 20/80 to about 80/20. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225891 | Bimetallic Catalyst and Use in Xylene Production - The invention is directed to a bimetallic catalyst system adapted for the manufacture of xylenes, a process for making said catalyst system, and to the process of manufacture of xylenes using said catalyst system, providing, in embodiments, improved selectivity by at least one of higher ethylene saturation and low xylene loss, decreased susceptibility to poisoning from feedstream impurities, and ability to operate at less severe conditions. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225892 | PROCESS FOR PRODUCING UNSATURATED HYDROCARBON COMPOUND - Disclosed is a method for producing an unsaturated hydrocarbon compound wherein an α-olefin is dimerized by using a catalyst system composed of a metallocene compound (A) and an oxygen-containing organometallic compound modified with a halogen-containing compound (B). By this method, an unsaturated hydrocarbon compound having unsaturated double bonds in a high ratio, in particular the one having a terminal vinylidene group can be produced efficiently. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225893 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF OLEFINS - Process for the preparation of olefins comprising introducing an oxygenate and/or olefinic feed into a reactor; reacting the oxygenate and/or olefinic feed in the reactor in the presence of a molecular sieve catalyst to form a mixture which comprises olefins and at least partially coked catalyst; separating olefins and at least partially coked catalyst; recovering olefins; and controlling the temperature of the oxygenate and/or olefinic feed to be introduced into the reactor on the basis of the temperature of the mixture formed in the reaction and/or the olefins obtained. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225894 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF OLEFINS - Process for the preparation of olefins, which process comprising introducing an oxygenate and/or olefinic feed through introduction means into a reactor; reacting the oxygenate and/or olefinic feed in the reactor in the presence of a molecular sieve catalyst to form a mixture with a resulting gas superficial velocity which mixture comprises olefins and at least partially coked catalyst; separating olefins and at least partially coked catalyst; recovering olefins; and controlling the gas superficial velocity of the mixture at a predetermined level in the reactor on the basis of the inlet mass gas flow rate of the feed. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225895 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF OLEFINS - Process for the preparation of olefins comprising reacting an oxygenate and/or olefinic feed in a reactor in the presence of a molecular sieve catalyst to form a mixture which comprises olefins and at least partially coked catalyst; separating olefins and at least partially coked catalyst as obtained; passing the at least partially coked catalyst to a regenerator; introducing into the regenerator an oxygen-containing gas to regenerate the at least partially coked catalyst, thereby producing a gaseous mixture and at least partially regenerated catalyst; analysing the at least partially regenerated catalyst to control the burning rate of the coke present on the at least partially coked catalyst in the regenerator by adjusting one or more conditions of the regeneration of the at least partially coked catalyst on the basis of the analysis of the at least partially regenerated catalyst; and passing the at least partially regenerated catalyst to the reactor. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225896 | PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF OLEFINS - Process for the preparation of olefins comprising reacting an oxygenate and/or olefinic feed in a reactor in the presence of a molecular sieve catalyst to form a mixture which comprises olefins and at least partially coked catalyst;
| 2013-08-29 |
20130225897 | PROCESS FOR ELIMINATION OF MERCURY CONTAINED IN A HYDROCARBON FEED WITH HYDROGEN RECYCLING - Elimination of mercury contained in a hydrocarbon feed by:
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20130225898 | Kinetic Fractionators, and Cycling Processes for Fractionation of Gas Mixtures - A process for separating methane from a natural gas mixture employs pressure swing adsorption in one or more vessels. Each vessel has an adsorbent material having a kinetic selectivity for contaminants over methane greater than 5. Contaminants within the natural gas mixture become gases kinetically adsorbed within the adsorbent material. The vessel is placed under pressure to cause contaminants to be adsorbed in the surfaces and micro-pores of the adsorbent material. The process includes releasing a product stream comprised at least 95% by volume methane from a first gas outlet in the vessel, and desorbing the contaminant gases from the adsorbent material by reducing the pressure within the vessel. The desorbing step is done without applying heat to the vessel, thereby delivering a waste gas stream comprised at least 95% by volume of the contaminant gases. An improved fractionation vessel having both major and minor flow channels is also provided. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225899 | Method for the Conditioning of Waste Coming from Decommissioning of Nuclear Plants - A method is described for the treatment of ferrous nuclear waste, produced in operations of pickling of contaminated metallic surfaces, which makes it possible to minimize the volumes of liquid phases to be treated and to recycle the by-products thereof to the process. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225900 | Method and Device for Closure of Intraluminal Perforations - A closure device having evertable arms for capturing and everting tissue and method for its use with an invasive scope, such as an endoscope, for full-thickness closure of perforations and leaks in the walls of an intraluminal bodily space. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225901 | ENHANCEMENT OF RADIATION THERAPY BY TARGETED HIGH-Z NANOPARTICLES - A method for the design, manufacturing, and use of a high-Z particle to enhance the effects of ionizing radiation. In particular, the use of a targeting molecule to enable cellular uptake by the target cells (tumor cells or endothelial cells proximate to the tumor) will enhance the dose effect. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225902 | EXPANDABLE BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE - A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225903 | PIERCE AND FILL DEVICE - A pierce and fill connector cap for a vial sealed by an elastomeric septum includes a vial collar and a needle holder. The vial collar body defines a collar aperture to be positioned in overlying registry with the septum of the vial, and the needle holder includes a needle holder body providing a means for holding an elongate needle in registry with the collar aperture. The needle holder body being moveable with respect to said vial collar between a first position spaced from the vial collar and a second position proximate the vial collar, such that a needle held by the needle holder will puncture through the vial septum. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225904 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAGNETIC CONTROL OF AN ANESTHETIC - Systems and methods for magnetic control of an anesthetic or analgesic agent are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes delivering a fluidic agent to a spinal region of a subject. The fluidic agent includes an anesthetic and/or analgesic component and a magnetic component. The method also includes applying a magnetic field to an area proximate a target area of the spinal region such as to maintain the fluidic agent at the target area, move the fluidic agent towards the target area, or move the fluidic agent away from the target area. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225905 | DEVICE THAT IS IMPLANTABLE IN THE TEMPORAL BONE FOR DELIVERING A MATERIAL, AND HEARING AID PROVIDED WITH SUCH A DEVICE - A device that is implantable in the temporal bone for dispensing at least one component of a liquid product, comprising a catheter and means for moving the component along the catheter, wherein the product incorporates particles for transporting the component, the particles being movable under the effect of a magnetic field, wherein the catheter comprises portions for discharging the component from the catheter, the discharging portions being distributed along the catheter, and wherein the moving means comprise means for generating a magnetic field near each discharging portion so as to move the product from discharging portion to discharging portion, the field-generating means comprising windings that surround the discharging portions and that are connected to a control module designed to successively power at least some of the windings. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225906 | MATERIAL FOR MEDICAL USE COMPRISING NANOPARTICLES WITH SUPERPARAMAGNETIC PROPERTIES AND ITS UTILIZATION IN SURGERY - This invention relates to a material for medical use that comprises biocompatible nanoparticles having superparamagnetic properties, where the superparamagnetic properties of said nanoparticles are used to localize their action on a determined space or tissue. In particular, said nanoparticles having superparamagnetic properties are composed of magnetite. The material according to the invention has various applications, both in surgical and in therapeutic treatments. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225907 | SYSTEMS AND/OR METHODS OF USING COHERENT ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES TO TREAT TUMORS AND/OR OTHER GROWTHS - Certain example embodiments relate to techniques for using coherent electromagnetic (EM) waves to treat tumors and/or other growths. In certain example embodiments, a growth is imaged. Based on this image, a holographic plate is prepared. Coherent electromagnetic waves are then focused on the holographic plate so that a holographic image of the growth is formed on the actual growth. Magnetic particles may be injected at or proximate to the growth and captured in the EM field corresponding to the holographic image such that these injected particles are caused to congregate in and/or on the growth. In certain example embodiments, bombarding of the growth with the injected particles may help damage or destroy the tumor. In certain example embodiments, the particles, once attached to and/or embedded in the actual growth may be irradiated (e.g., using a microwave or other energy source) so as to further damage or destroy the growth. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225908 | Systems And Methods For A Magnetic Resonance Home Unit - Methods, systems, computer-readable media, and apparatuses for a magnetic resonance home unit are presented. In one embodiment, a method for using a magnetic resonance home unit includes opening a magnetic resonance application; accessing a magnetic resonance treatment protocol associated with a magnetic resonance treatment; and outputting the magnetic resonance treatment to a patient. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225909 | Quick-Connect Outflow Tube for Ventricular Assist Device - An outflow conduit for a cardiac assist pump has a connector at one end comprised of a main sleeve configured to mate with a pump outlet port. A plurality of prongs extend from the sleeve. Each prong has a distal end with a claw and is bendable so that its respective claw expands over a lip and enters the groove of the outlet port. A lock nut is movable between a retracted position and a locking position. In the retracted position, a soft interconnect is obtained. In the locking position, the claws are prevented from escaping over the lip and a hard interconnect is obtained. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225910 | Rotary Pump with Hydrodynamically Suspended Impeller - A pump assembly | 2013-08-29 |
20130225911 | PORTABLE CONTROLLER WITH INTEGRAL POWER SOURCE FOR MECHANICAL CIRCULATION SUPPORT SYSTEMS - A portable external device for a mechanical circulation support system includes first and second power sources, e.g. batteries and control electronics for redundant uninterrupted operation of an implantable blood pump. The control and power source module may be configured to accommodate a variety of wearable configurations for patient convenience and comfort. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225912 | COMBINED FUNCTIONAL COMPONENT AND IMPLANTABLE ACTUATOR POSITIONING MECHANISM - An implantable component including an implantable body including a functional component of the implantable medical device, and implantable actuator positioning mechanism connected to and extending from the implantable body, the actuator positioning mechanism configured to removably receive an implantable actuator. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225913 | VIBRATION DEVICE AND METHOD OF INSTALLATION THEREOF - A portable vibration device for soothing an infant. The portable vibration device includes a vibration pad portion, a control pad connected and a neck portion. The neck portion extends between the vibration pad and the control pad. A vibration circuit is provided to control a vibration element in the vibration pad. The circuit electrically connects the control pad to the vibration pad. A cushion is provided around the vibration pad portion and a cover is disposed around the cusion and the internal components of the vibration device. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225914 | METHODS, APPARATUSES AND SYSTEMS FOR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF MOOD DISORDERS - A method and apparatus for diagnosing and/or treating mood disorders, such as depression, is provided. Right vestibular function in subjects diagnosed with a mood disorder is diminished compared with subjects who do not have a mood disorder. Accordingly, a method and apparatus for determining right vestibular function in a subject is provided, from which a diagnosis of a mood disorder may be determined. Stimulation of the vestibular system of a subject diagnosed with a mood disorder may reduce symptoms of the mood disorder in the subject. A method and apparatus for registering a subject's response to stimulation of the vestibular system and providing therapeutic vestibular stimulation based on the subject's response is provided. A subject's response to stimulation of the vestibular system may be based on measurements of nystagmus in the subject. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225915 | Bone Conduction Apparatus and Multi-Sensory Brain Integration Method - The present disclosure provides a therapeutic method applicable to learning, attention, cognitive and developmental disorders. This method combines auditory, visual and vestibular stimuli into a systematic method which can be customized to address individual learning, attention and processing disorders. This method may be wirelessly implemented in a group setting. A device for providing vestibular and somatosensory stimulation through bone conduction of sound waves to skeletal bones is provided in the form of a pad that is applied to or wrapped around the individual in treatment, which is comfortable in use and may contain particulate filler material capable of providing bone conduction stimulation adjacent to the location of a bone conduction transducer and expand the sound conduction site over a larger area. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225916 | TUBULAR IMPLANTABLE SLING AND RELATED DELIVERY SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES - The invention generally relates to surgically implantable supportive slings. More specifically, in various embodiments, the invention is directed to systems, devices and methods relating to surgically implantable supportive sling having an adjustable shape. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225917 | EMBRYO QUALITY ASSESSMENT BASED ON BLASTOMERE DIVISION AND MOVEMENT - The invention concerns a system and method for determining embryo quality comprising monitoring the embryo for a time period, said time period having a length sufficient to comprise at least one cell division period and at least a part of an inter-division period, and determining the length of the at least one cell division period; and/or ii) determining the extent and/or spatial distribution of cellular or organelle movement during the cell division period; and/or iii) determining duration of an inter-division period; and/or iv) determining the extent and/or spatial distribution of cellular or organelle movement during the inter-division period thereby obtaining an embryo quality measure. Thus, the selection of optimal embryos to be implanted after in vitro fertilization (IVF) is facilitated based on the timing, duration, spatial distribution, and extent of observed cell divisions and associated cellular and organelle movement. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225918 | MATERIALS AND METHODS FOR SECURING BODILY IMPLANTS - In one embodiment, a medical device includes a resorbable material that is configured to be disposed within the body of the patient proximate a bodily implant. The resorbable material is configured to frictionally retain the implant in place within the body of the patient for at least a period of time. In one embodiment, a kit includes an implant and a resorbable material. The implant is configured to be disposed within a body of a patient. The resorbable material is configured to be disposed within the body of the patient proximate the implant to frictionally retain the implant in place within the body of the patient for a period of time. The resorbable material is configured to be resorbed by the body after the period of time. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225919 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR TREATING PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS - Disclosed are implants for pelvic floor repair and related uses, and devices, kits, and methods which can be used to deliver the implants. In certain embodiments, the devices are used to deliver extensions of a surgical implant to respective target tissue regions of the levator ani muscle and the sacrospinous ligament. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225920 | SURGICAL SUPPORT ASSEMBLY - A surgical support assembly is disclosed, including a plurality of tissue penetrating support members, a plurality of position controlling members through which the plurality of tissue penetrating support members are inserted, and an imaging member attached at the vertex of the plurality of tissue penetrating support members. Also disclosed is a method of assembling and using a surgical support assembly in conjunction with minimally invasive surgical procedures. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225921 | Combined endoscope and surgical instrument guide device - A combined endoscope and surgical instrument guide device is provided. In one embodiment the endoscope includes an elongated flexible tube; a housing integrally formed with a rear end of the tube and including a space; a working channel extending through both the tube and the housing; a tunnel extending from the space to a front end of the tube; a plurality of buttons disposed on the housing; a processor module disposed in both the space and the tunnel; and an electronic visual display disposed on top of the housing. An elongated surgical instrument is allowed to insert through the working channel to cooperate with the processor module so that a clear image of a target can be taken by the processor module. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225922 | Device and Methods for in vivo Monitoring of an Individual - The present invention may be embodied as a retrievable device capable of sensing one or more properties of an individual (e.g., chemical or physical parameters, etc.) In use, the retrievable device can continuously determine the chemical concentrations within the vaginal tract. An embodiment of the retrievable device comprises a first housing having a light source and an image capture device, a second housing removably connected to the first housing and having a sensor, and a fitting for retrieving the device. The sensor may be an analyte sensor configured to obtain at least one measurement of a concentration of an analyte in a fluid. The analyte sensor comprises a sensor substance in a sol-gel material so the sensor substance reversibly interacts with an analyte of interest. In addition, the retrievable device can be configured to determine different physical parameters and re-implanted. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225923 | IN VIVO INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A capsule endoscope includes: an in vivo information acquiring section that acquires information on an inside of a body of a subject; a battery that supplies power; a power source switch that turns on/off power supply from the battery to the in vivo information acquiring section; a detection section that includes at least two electrodes disposed on an outer face of a casing, and, upon detection of introduction to the inside of the body of the subject based on a change in electric resistance between the electrodes, outputs a detection signal; and a control section that controls the power source switch according to the detection signal. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225924 | MEDICAL SCOPE WITH SINGLE USE PROBE - A medical scope with a probe capable of being utilized for a single imaging procedure is described. The medical scope has a control unit with a programmable memory unit, a socket for receiving a plug end of the probe, and the probe having a light guide and a pair of power wires extending along the length thereof. The control unit also has a display screen, a set of switches to control functions, and a light source. The probe includes a check bit memory unit for retaining a selected value that the control unit will detect, a zero value indicating a new probe and a non-zero value indicating a used probe. Therefore, the used probe will be rejected by the control unit and cannot be used again. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225925 | AUXILIARY TOOL FOR COLONOSCOPY - An auxiliary tool for colonoscopy is disclosed. The auxiliary tool for colonoscopy includes an anal intubation body and a feces-holding body. The anal intubation body has an aperture surface on one side and an anus cover on the other side, and also has a hollow part having a first diameter formed inside. The anus cover is shaped as a cap having a round curved surface. The feces-holding body has one side coupled to an inner side of the anus cover, has a holding part formed inside, and has a leakage prevention body formed on the other side. The holding part has a second diameter and is connected with the hollow part, and the leakage prevention body is configured to permit passage of an endoscope tube but prevent leakage of fecal matter held in the holding part to the other side. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225926 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DIRECTING INSTRUMENTS TO VARYING POSITIONS AT THE DISTAL END OF A GUIDE TUBE - Described herein are various systems and methods for directing endoscopy instruments to varying positions at a target site. In one aspect, at least one instrument channel has multiple exit points at the distal end of the guide tube, and the position of an instrument delivered through the channel may be switched between the different exit points. In another aspect, an instrument channel splits into multiple branches at the distal end of the guide tube, and the position of an instrument at the target site may be changed by selectively directing the instrument into a different channel branch. In yet another aspect, the guide tube, or a portion thereof, may be rotated to reposition an instrument at the target site. The capability of changing the instrument positions during a procedure would enable a physician to examine or treat multiple target sites within an operative field, without necessitating the full retraction of the instruments or the guide tube from the operative field. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225927 | IN VIVO INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS - A capsule endoscope includes, inside a capsule casing, an information acquiring section that acquires information on an inside of a body of a subject, a battery that supplies power, a detection section that, upon detection of introduction to the inside of the body of the subject, outputs a detection signal, a signal receiving section that receives a control signal from an outside and outputs an internal signal, and a control section that controls power supply from the battery to the information acquiring section according to the internal signal and the detection signal. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225928 | TISSUE RESECTING SYSTEM - A surgical system includes a first instrument defining a first channel and a second instrument receivable by the first channel. The second instrument defines a second channel. A valve coupled to the first instrument controls fluid flow through the first channel, such that impedance of fluid flow through the first channel is substantially the same without the second instrument received in the first channel and with the first channel partially blocked by the second instrument. In another aspect, a surgical apparatus includes an outer member and an inner member received within the outer member to define a first channel therebetween. The inner member houses an optical lens and defines a second channel for receiving a surgical instrument. The first and second channels are configured such that a pump having an inflow rate of up to about 0.7 L/min connected to the second channel can maintain fluid pressure inside an organ. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225929 | QUICK ATTACH LARYNGOSCOPE POWER GENERATOR DEVICE - The present invention relates to a modified laryngoscope attachment device for use in “difficult” intubations and more specifically to a quick-attach power generator device that attaches to an existing laryngoscope to provide a means for a second user to help generate a power sufficient to open and/or maintain the opening of a “difficult” airway while not interfering with the first users ability to accurately guide the laryngoscope blade into its proper position. Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a power-generating handle adapted to be rapidly attached to the distal end of the handle of a laryngoscope to facilitate oral endotracheal intubation of a patient. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225930 | WOUND RETRACTOR INCLUDING RIGID RING - A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity adapts to tissue tracts of different widths. The surgical instrument includes a proximal member, a distal member, and a sleeve extending between the proximal member and the distal member and defining a longitudinal passage therein. The proximal member includes an inflatable member that selectively adjusts the radial dimension of the proximal member. A ring member may be separately insertable by a user during a surgical procedure into the space directly adjacent to the radially-inner surface of the inflatable member, so as to selectively provide rigidity to the proximal member. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225931 | SURGICAL INTRODUCER AND ACCESS PORT ASSEMBLY - A surgical apparatus for permitting access to tissue includes an elongated introducer and a surgical port. The introducer includes an outer wall segment defining a longitudinal axis, a longitudinal port passage extending therethrough and a longitudinal slot in communication with the port passage. The introducer is dimensioned for at least partial introduction within an opening in tissue. The surgical port includes a port body mounted to the introducer with one of its leading and trailing ends disposed within the port passage and with the intermediate segment extending through the longitudinal slot and the other of the leading and trailing end external of the elongated introducer. The port body is dimensioned to be advanced within the port passage for deployment through the opening in the tissue and is adapted to transition from a compressed state to a released state. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225932 | MULTI-PORTION WOUND PROTECTOR - A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity is adapted to allow passage of a hand to conduct hand-assist procedures, and is also adapted to allow passage of surgical instruments to conduct typical minimally invasive procedures. The surgical apparatus includes a rigid anchor member having an open proximal end, a flexible member having a closed distal end and a string attached thereto. The flexible member is configured to invert upon pulling the string in a proximal direction to expose the closed distal end proximally beyond the open proximal end. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225933 | ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT PORT INCLUDING RETENTION ELEMENTS - A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity adapts to tissues having different thickness. The surgical instrument includes a proximal portion with at least one bendable structure attached thereto. The at least one bendable structure is configured to fold anywhere along its length. Folding the at least one bendable structure causes the proximal end of the proximal portion to propagate in a distal direction. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225934 | EXPANDABLE ENDOSCOPIC HOODS AND RELATED METHODS OF USE - A medical device for tissue resection and related methods of use are disclosed. The device may include an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the elongate member may include a distal portion defining an end face and a cavity extending distally therefrom. The distal portion may further include multiple sections configured to transition between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The medical device may further include a mechanism configured to adjust a volume of the cavity by moving at least one of the multiple sections from the first position to the second position. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225935 | LATERAL ACCESS SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A surgical access device including a frame, first and second supports, and first and second retractor blades releasably coupled with the first and second supports, respectively. The frame has first and second arms. The first support is releasably coupled with the first and second arms. The second support is slidably mounted on the first and second arms. The second support is movable between a first position with the retractor blades in close cooperative position and a spaced apart position with respect to the first support. The first and second retractor blades each have a distal end portion configured and adapted to engage a vertebral body. In one method of use, the retractor is inserted through an incision in first orientation with the blades in close approximation and rotated approximately 90°, before spreading the retractor blades to retract tissue. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225936 | SYSTEMS, TOOLS, AND METHODS FOR TREATMENTS OF PELVIC CONDITIONS - Described are surgical procedure systems, devices, tools, and methods, useful for treating pelvic conditions in a male or female, involving an expansion member. The invention relates to an expansion member that includes a proximal end, a distal end, a length extending from the proximal end to the distal end, two longitudinal blades extending in the length direction, and a connector connecting the blades. The connector allows movement of the blades to increase or decrease a distance between the blades at the distal end. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225937 | Irrigation Devices Adapted to be used with a Light Source for the Identification and Treatment of Bodily Passages - Devices and methods of identifying and treating bodily passages, such as sinus cavities, are provided. More particularly, irrigation devices and methods useful in the identification and treatment of bodily passages, such as sinus cavities, are provided. The irrigation devices comprise an elongate tubular member and an optical fiber which assist with the transcutaneous identification and/or treatment of a bodily passage. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225938 | Connector Interface System for Data Acquisition - A data acquisition system includes a receptacle and a data acquisition device. The receptacle has a housing, sensor inputs to receive data signals from sensors coupled to an object, and a rib to block insertion of a standard Universal Serial Bus (USB) plug and facilitate insertion of a modified USB plug having a slot that mates with the rib. The data acquisition device includes circuitry to receive, store and process data, a USB plug having pins operatively coupled to the circuitry, a first subset of pins configured to receive data signals from the receptacle and a second subset of pins configured to support standard USB communication with USB-compliant devices, and a slot formed in the USB plug such that the slot facilitates interconnection of the USB plug both with standard USB-compliant devices and with the receptacle, the slot mating with the rib to facilitate interconnection. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225939 | GLOVE FOR SENSITIZING TOUCH PERCEPTION - Provided is a glove for sensitizing touch perception with which fingertips can be moved smoothly across a wide area without influencing subtle touch perception and an examination by means of palpation can be performed highly accurately and smoothly. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225940 | BIOLOGICAL BODY STATE ESTIMATION DEVICE AND COMPUTER PROGRAM - A technique for grasping a state of a human being. The technique determines a time-series waveform of a frequency from a time-series waveform of a biological signal acquired from an upper body of a human being, and determines time-series waveforms of a frequency slope and frequency variation to analyze these frequencies. Upon analyzing the frequencies, it determines power spectrums of frequencies corresponding to a preset functional adjustment signal, fatigue reception signal, and activity adjustment signal, and then determines a state of the human being from a time-series change in each power spectrum. Dominant degrees of the functional adjustment signal and activity adjustment signal are compared as distribution rates thereof, in addition to a degree of progress of fatigue, to determine a state of the human being, for example a relaxed state, fatigued state, prominent state of sympathetic nervous, prominent state of parasympathetic nervous. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225941 | INTERFACE UNIT, MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND A METHOD IN AN INTERFACE UNIT - The present invention relates to an extracorporeale interface unit ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225942 | SURGICAL CATHETER HAVING SIDE EXITING MEDICAL INSTRUMENT AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FOUR DIMENSIONAL SOFT TISSUE NAVIGATION - A surgical instrument navigation system is provided that visually simulates a virtual volumetric scene of a body cavity of a patient from a point of view of a surgical instrument residing in the cavity of the patient, wherein the surgical instrument, as provided, may be a steerable surgical catheter with a biopsy device and/or a surgical catheter with a side-exiting medical instrument, among others. Additionally, systems, methods and devices are provided for forming a respiratory-gated point cloud of a patient's respiratory system and for placing a localization element in an organ of a patient. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225943 | STEERABLE SURGICAL CATHETER HAVING BIOPSY DEVICES AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FOUR DIMENSIONAL SOFT TISSUE NAVIGATION - A surgical instrument navigation system is provided that visually simulates a virtual volumetric scene of a body cavity of a patient from a point of view of a surgical instrument residing in the cavity of the patient, wherein the surgical instrument, as provided, may be a steerable surgical catheter with a biopsy device and/or a surgical catheter with a side-exiting medical instrument, among others. Additionally, systems, methods and devices are provided for forming a respiratory-gated point cloud of a patient's respiratory system and for placing a localization element in an organ of a patient. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225944 | FLEXIBLE SENSOR ASSEMBLY - A sensor assembly includes: an electrically insulating and flexible body ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225945 | Medication Injection Site and Data Collection System - A medication delivery apparatus for use with a medication container includes a housing, a fluid conduit at least partially extending within the housing and configured to deliver medication within the medication container to a patient, a medication port extending from the housing and configured to be coupled to a fluid outlet of the medication container, the medication port being fluidically coupled to the fluid conduit, and at least one sensor disposed within the housing to generate information characterizing administration of the medication for processing by a remote data collection system. The housing can have a size and shape that enables it to be supported by a first hand of a user while the user administers the medication from the medication container via the medication port using a second hand of the user. Related apparatus, systems, and techniques are also described. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225946 | DEVICE, APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS BY WAY OF A FEEDING TUBE - A neonatal feeding tube ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225947 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device comprising a coronary perfusion measurement unit is adapted to measure and determine parameters related to coronary perfusion of heart tissue. The parameters include time periods and perfusion magnitudes. The coronary perfusion measurement unit is configured to determine a time period T related to a perfusion event of a coronary vessel and including includes a reperfusion time period, where a perfusion event is defined as a decrease of coronary perfusion followed by reperfusion, and to generate a time period signal in dependence thereto. The implantable medical device further comprises a coronary flow calculation unit that is adapted to receive the time period signal and that is adapted to process the time period and to generate an ischemia risk indicating index I in dependence of the time period. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225948 | HYBRID ELECTROMAGNETIC-ACOUSTIC DISTAL TARGETING SYSTEM - A surgical targeting system of an intramedullary nail, which includes an extracorporeally arranged external transmitting unit. Further included is a plurality of first transponder units coupled with and arrayed along the length of the intramedullary nail, each adapted to be actuated by the external transmitting unit. Additionally, a plurality of holes are disposed within and arrayed along the length of the intramedullary nail. Each of the plurality of holes are situated between each of the plurality of first transponder units. Further, a first transmission section is between the external transmitting unit and each of the plurality of first transponder units via which the plurality of first transponder units are actuated. Additionally included is a second transmission section through the intramedullary nail between the plurality of first transponder units and a second transponder unit. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225949 | 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. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225950 | ANXIETY MONITORING - A patient monitoring system comprises a probe module ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225951 | DETERMINATION OF OXYGEN SATURATION IN A TISSUE OF VISUAL SYSTEM - A method and system of acquisition and processing of data representing oxygen saturation (OS) value of a tissue of a visual system of a subject, such as the optic nerve head and overlying artery and vein. The data is acquired at pre-determined discrete spectral points, including at least two isosbestic points, as a discrete reflectance spectrum, with the use of a multi-spectral optical imaging system that simultaneously produces a plurality of two-dimensional spectrally-discrete images by segmenting an incoming light front with secondary objectives. The OS value is assessed based on determination of areas bound by an acquired discrete reflectance spectrum and an isosbestic line. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225952 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STORING AND PROVIDING PATIENT-RELATED DATA - According to various embodiments, a regional oximetry sensor may include a light emitting element configured to emit light, a light detector configured to receive the light, and a memory device configured to store a baseline. The baseline stored by the memory device enables a regional oximetry monitor to display the baseline on a display of the regional oximetry monitor. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225953 | CONCURRENT STIMULATION EFFECT DETECTION - Functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) imaging is utilized to measure the influence of stimulation in real time. An fNIRS imaging device is integrated into a transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) stimulator by embedding fNIRS optodes on the tDCS stimulating electrodes. During tDCS stimulation, blood oxygenation levels are measured. For example, concentrations of oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin are measured and compared to the concentrations of a baseline resting state to provide feedback on the efficacy of tDCS. Based on the feedback, a tDCS threshold and a dose-response relation for a particular subject can be quantified, and individualized stimulation parameters can be determined for the particular subject. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225954 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RECOVERY FROM MOTOR CONTROL VIA STIMULATION TO A SUBSTITUTED SITE TO AN AFFECTED AREA - A device and methods for treating a subject with dysphagia or other neurological disease, neurological disorder, neurological injury, neurological impairment or neurodegenerative disease that affects voluntary motor control of the hyoid, pharynx, larynx, or oropharyngeal area is disclosed. A device of the invention generally comprises a vibrotactile stimulator for applying at least one stimulus to the outside surface of a subject's neck; a connector for attaching the vibrotactile stimulator to an outside surface of the subject's neck, and a switch control communicatively connected to the vibrotactile stimulator to selectively engage a manual stimulation module and/or automatic stimulation module. Stimulation of an outside surface of the throat area of a subject by a device of the invention stimulates a swallowing reflex in the subject. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225955 | DETERMINATION OF TISSUE OXYGENATION IN VIVO - A system and method for noninvasively determining the oxygenation of a tissue, for example, a muscle, in vivo uses optical methods to optically interrogate the tissue in both a visible wavelength range and a near infrared (NIR) wavelength range. The illuminating light is sculpted in intensity to approximately match the absorbance spectrum, for example, with the visible light having an intensity an order of magnitude greater than the light. Training data is obtained from healthy patients in both the visible and NIR ranges simultaneously and used to calculate muscle oxygenation. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225956 | Transdermal Sensor - The present invention provides a transdermal sensor for detecting a concentration of a hypodermal target molecule, comprising: a substrate; a plurality of microneedles fixed on said substrate; a signal processing unit, which is electrically connected to said microneedles; and a power supply unit for providing the working power. The transdermal sensor of the present invention detects long-term, real-time concentration of a hypodermal target molecule for a doctor to evaluate a physiological status of an user with minimal invasive piercing and pain. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225957 | Tubular Sensor, Constituent Measuring Device, and Tubular Sensor Manufacturing Method - A tubular sensor includes a tubular body having a longitudinally extending cavity, an insulation layer formed on the inner wall surface of the tubular body; and a plurality of longitudinally extending electrodes formed on the insulation layer and extending continuously from one end to the other end of the tubular body. The tubular sensor can be employed in a constituent measuring device. The tubular sensor can be manufactured by forming the insulation layer on a thin metal sheet, forming the plurality of electrodes on the insulation layer in stripes, cutting the thin metal sheet with the insulation layer and the electrodes formed thereon to produce a plate-shaped body having a development shape of the tubular body, and press working the plate-shaped body to form the tubular body. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225958 | IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS AND IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD - An image processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes an acquiring unit, a correcting unit, and a perfusion image creating unit. The acquiring unit obtains a pixel value of a myocardium tissue and an arterial blood before a contrast agent injected in a second contrast examination arrives at a cardiac of a subject when myocardium perfusion data is created, by performing the second contrast examination that captures a second medical image group including the cardiac of the subject who is given an injection of a contrast agent again after a first contrast examination that captures a first medical image group. The correcting unit corrects contrast agent concentrations of an arterial blood and a myocardium tissue in the second medical image group using acquired each pixel value. The perfusion image creating unit computes the myocardium perfusion data in the second contrast examination based on the corrected contrast agent concentrations. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225959 | Assessing Measures Of Glycemic Variability - Methods, devices and systems for receiving an instruction to determine a glycemic variation level, retrieving a stored metric for determining the glycemic variation level, retrieving one or more parameters associated with the retrieved metric analysis, determining the glycemic variation level based on the retrieved one or more parameters for the retrieved metric analysis, and outputting the determined glycemic variation level when it is determined that the retrieved one or more parameters associated with the retrieved metric analysis meets a predetermined condition are disclosed. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225960 | IN-VIVO MONITORING WITH MICROWAVES - A blood glucose monitor for non-invasive, in-vivo characterisation of a blood glucose level in a living body, the monitor comprising: a microwave resonator having a resonant response to input microwaves and designed such that said response will experience a perturbation by a living body in proximity or contact with the resonator; and detection means for detecting changes in said resonant response from which said level can be characterised. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225961 | DIALYSIS PROBE - A dialysis probe includes a tubular dialysis membrane sealed at its tip, a support tube coupled at a tip to a rear end of the dialysis membrane, a cap portion for securing a rear end of the support tube, an inlet conduit extending through the cap portion toward the tip of the dialysis membrane within a space to guide a perfusate into the space, an outlet conduit extending through the cap portion toward the tip of the dialysis membrane within the space to guide the perfusate in the space outside the space, and at least one air-exposure through-hole provided in the cap portion for maintaining the space at atmospheric pressure. The inlet conduit has a longer protruding length from the rear end of the support tube when compared to the outlet conduit. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225962 | MEDICAL SURGICAL NAVIGATION SENSOR MOUNTING SYSTEM - An engagement system for a surgical sensor assembly, formed of a sensing component in a fixed position and a lead wire in an electrical communication therewith. The engagement system employs a jacket of heat shrink polymeric material to hold the sensing component to the lead wire and eliminates the employment of soldering and welding and crimping which can damage such sensing components. The system is employed in combination with catheters having a lumen for control wires for surgical instruments. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225963 | Automated Cell Patch Clamping Method and Apparatus - In an automated methodology for carrying out in vivo cell patch clamping, a cell patch clamping device is automatically moved into position and targeted to a neuron. Neuron contact is determined by analyzing the temporal series of measured resistance levels at the cell patch clamping device as it is moved. The difference between successive resistance levels is computed and compared to a threshold, which must be exceeded for a minimum number of computations before neuron contact is assumed. Pneumatic control methods are used to achieve gigaseal formation and cell break-in, leading to whole-cell patch clamp formation. An automated robotic system capable of performing this methodology automatically performs patch clamping in vivo, automatically detecting cells by analyzing the temporal sequence of electrode impedance changes. By continuously monitoring the patching process and rapidly executing actions triggered by specific measurements, the robot can rapidly find neurons in the living brain and establish recordings. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225964 | ELECTRODE FOR INTRAOPERATIVE NERVE STIMULATION - An electrode for intraoperative nerve stimulation of the vagus nerve, which electrode is suitable for continuous neuromonitoring during an operation and has an electrode holder with a strip-shaped design and made of an elastic material, and at least one electrically conductive contact surface, the latter being connectable via a signal-transmission medium to a signal transmitter and/or signal receiver and touching the vagus nerve on part of its circumference during the application. The electrode includes a first portion with a plastically deformable material such that, during the application, the electrode holder can be formed onto a vessel wall of a first blood vessel extending parallel to the vagus nerve and encompasses this blood vessel in order to affix the electrode in a hook-shaped fashion and by a second portion which, with an opposing curvature to that of the first portion can be placed around the vagus nerve in a loop-like fashion. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225965 | CATHETER BALLOON HAVING STRETCHABLE INTEGRATED CIRCUITRY AND SENSOR ARRAY - A system, device and method are presented for utilizing stretchable active integrated circuits with inflatable bodies. The invention allows for such operative features to come into direct contact with body structures, such as the inner wall of a lumen. Such direct contact increases accuracy of measurement and delivery of therapy. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225966 | Sensor for Acquiring Physiological Signals - The present invention relates to a sensor | 2013-08-29 |
20130225967 | SMALL WIRELESS PORTABLE EKG SYSTEM - A wallet-card sized, flexible, largely self-contained electrocardiogram (EKG) device able to wirelessly communicate EKG data to a smart phone, or similarly functional device, hosting an application that can receive and display the EKG data, as well as do some analysis to identify particular heart conditions and display that information, or data product. The EKG device processes data from its integral electrodes into EKG data, can store up to an hour of data, and can wirelessly transmit the EKG data from storage or from real-time processing. The smart phone receives the EKG data, makes it available to the application, and displays results produced by the application, which may include alarms or identification of specific heart problems. The smart phone can further communicate the EKG data and additional data products to a web server application, which can perform additional analysis for display, or communicate to a medical provider. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225968 | INTEGRATED FLEXIBLE PASSIVE SENSOR IN A SOFT CONTACT LENS FOR IOP MONITORING - The invention relates to a sensing means for a contact lens used in a physiological parameter measuring system comprising one or two contact lenses, wherein to improve the comfort of wear for a patient each contact lens comprises an antenna and a purely passive sensing means. The invention also relates to a corresponding method and a method to fabricate the sensing means and the contact lens. | 2013-08-29 |
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. | 2013-08-29 |
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. | 2013-08-29 |
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. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225972 | ALERTING USERS OF CPR FEEDBACK DEVICE OF DETECTED MAGNETIC INTERFERENCE - A medical device and/or a method are used by a rescuer who is caring for a patient. The depth of CPR chest compressions is determined, by detecting magnetic fields. An interference is sensed, which is not associated with the CPR chest compressions, but which is superimposed on the detected magnetic fields. Appropriate countermeasures may be taken, if the sensed interference is larger than a threshold. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225973 | METHODS AND DEVICES TO MODULATE THE AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM WITH ULTRASOUND - In some embodiments, sympathetic nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some embodiments, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some embodiments, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225974 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING SYSTEM AND RADIOTHERAPY APPARATUS WITH AN ADJUSTABLE AXIS OF ROTATION - A therapeutic apparatus ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225975 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING AND RADIOTHERAPY APPARATUS WITH AT LEAST TWO-TRANSMIT-AND RECEIVE CHANNELS - A therapeutic apparatus ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225976 | EFFICIENT MULTI-STATION MRI - A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system includes at least one controller configured to first acquire at least MRI locator image data for different portions of patient anatomy at each of different imaging stations for a defined multi-station locator sequence. An operator may interface with a respectively corresponding displayed locator image for each imaging station to set diagnostic scan sequence parameters for subsequent diagnostic MRI scans of corresponding portions of patient anatomy. Diagnostic MRI scan data is automatically acquired at each of the imaging stations in a multi-station diagnostic scan sequence that, if desired, can be seamlessly continued without operator interruption once begun. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225977 | Methods and Devices for Delivery of Compositions to Conduits - The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port sad at least one delivery catheter tor placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225978 | MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING SYSTEM, COMPUTER SYSTEM, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR SENDING CONTROL MESSAGES TO AN ANESTHESIA SYSTEM - A magnetic resonance imaging system ( | 2013-08-29 |
20130225979 | COLON SCREENING BY USING MAGNETIC PARTICLE IMAGING - The present invention relates to a method for colon screening by using Magnetic Particle Imaging comprising the steps of: (a) generating an imaging magnetic field with a spatial distribution of the magnetic field strength such that the area of examination in the colon consists of a first sub-area of the colon with lower magnetic field strength, where the magnetization of a magnetic particle which was pre-delivered to the colon is not saturated, and a second sub-area of the colon with a higher magnetic field strength, where the magnetization of said magnetic particle is saturated; (b) changing the spatial location of both sub-areas in the area of examination so that the magnetization of said particles changes locally; (c) acquiring signals that depend on the magnetization in the area of examination influenced by this change; and (d) evaluating said signals to obtain information about the spatial distribution of the signals in the area of examination. The area of examination in the colon preferably comprises a portion or segment of the colon and steps (a) to (c) may be carried out during an entire peristaltic cycle in said colon portion or segment. The present invention further relates to a corresponding method for collecting data, the use of a magnetic particle for colon screening via Magnetic Particle Imaging, a food stuff or liquid for in vivo diagnostic use comprising a magnetic particle, and a method for preparing a patient for colon screening by using Magnetic Particle Imaging. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225980 | Shoulder Local Coil System for a Magnetic Resonance Tomography System - A shoulder local coil system for a magnetic resonance tomography system for generating magnetic resonance images of a shoulder region of a person to be examined is provided. The shoulder local coil system includes a base plate, a fixed or removable cover plate over the base plate, and a flexible local coil arranged wholly or partially movably between the base plate and the cover plate. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225981 | POSITION DETECTING APPARATUS OF CAPSULE ENDOSCOPE, CAPSULE ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM AND COMPUTER READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - A position detecting apparatus of a capsule endoscope includes a receiving antenna unit that receives a wireless signal transmitted together with an image data signal from the capsule endoscope in a subject via a plurality of receiving antennas, a correlation level calculating unit that calculates a correlation level between the image received by the receiving antennas and an image received immediately before the image was received, a determining unit that determines whether a position and/or direction of the capsule endoscope is changed, based on the correlation level calculated by the correlation level calculating unit, and an estimating unit that estimates the position and/or direction with respect to the position of the capsule endoscope at the time the image was captured if the determining unit determines that the position and/or direction of the capsule endoscope is changed. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225982 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SENSORIZED USER INTERFACE - A system and method for is provided for operation of an orthopedic system. The system includes a load sensor for converting an applied pressure associated with a force load on an anatomical joint, and an ultrasonic device for creating a low-power short-range ultrasonic sensing field within proximity of the load sensing unit for assessing alignment. The system can adjust a strength and range of the ultrasonic sensing field according to position. It can report audible and visual information associated with the force load and alignment. Other embodiments are disclosed. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225983 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MARKING AN ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL COORDINATE SYSTEM - The present invention is a device localization system that uses one or more ultrasound reference catheters to establish a fixed three-dimensional coordinate system within a patient's heart using principles of triangulation. The coordinate system is represented graphically in three-dimensions on a video monitor and aids the clinician in guiding other medical devices, which are provided with ultrasound transducers, through the body to locations at which they are needed to perform clinical procedures. In one embodiment of a system according to the present invention, the system is used in the heart to help the physician guide mapping catheters for measuring electrical activity, and ablation catheters for ablating selected regions of cardiac tissue, to desired locations within the heart. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225984 | METHOD FOR GUIDING THE INSERTION OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH THREE DIMENSIONAL ULTRASONIC IMAGING - The insertion of a needle or other surgical instrument into the body is guided by three dimensional ultrasonic imaging. A probe having a two dimensional array transducer is placed against the body and manipulated to acquire an image of the site of the surgical procedure inside the body. The clinician inserts the surgical instrument, trying to follow an insertion path which is in the plane of a single image produced by the ultrasound system. The clinician observes the path of insertion and insertion progress on a display of a plurality of real-time 2D ultrasound images of spatially adjacent planes of a volume including the surgical procedure site. If the insertion path of the instrument does not remain in the plane of a single image, portions of the instrument will appear in the images of multiple adjacent image planes when the instrument intersects a succession of image planes as it progresses toward the site of the surgical procedure. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225985 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSDUCER PLACEMENT IN SOFT-FIELD TOMOGRAPHY - A system and method for transducer placement in soft-field tomography are provided. One system includes a plurality of transducers configured for positioning at a surface of an object in a non-soft-field tomography configuration. The system also includes an interface and a processor communicating with the plurality of transducers via the interface. The processor is configured to perform soft-field sensing using soft-field data acquired by the plurality of transducers. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225986 | METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR COMPLETE EXAMINATION OF TISSUE WITH HAND-HELD IMAGING DEVICES - A scan completeness auditing system for screening a volume of tissue comprising a manual image scanning device having an imaging probe, a position tracking system configured to track and record the position of the imaging probe during use, and a controller in communication with the recording system and the manual image scanning device, the controller configured to electronically receive and record the scanned images from the manual image scanning device, and to measure an image-to-image spacing and a scan-to-scan spacing between the scanned images within scan sequence and between scan sequences respectively. The scan completeness auditing system is further adapted to provide an alert to the operator if the image-to-image or scan-to-scan spacing exceeds an acceptable value. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225987 | DEDICATED BREAST IMAGING WITH IMPROVED GAMMA-RAY COLLECTION - A dedicated positron-emission tomography (“PET”) imaging device adapted to perform medical imaging procedures is described. The device includes at least two detector envelopes, each detector envelope adapted to conform to, contact, and stabilize an anatomical region of a patient, at least two gamma cameras, each coupled to an associated detector envelope, and multiple mechanical stages coupled to each of the gamma cameras, each mechanical stage adapted to provide an axis of movement for each of the cameras. In addition, a method of performing an imaging scan of an anatomical region is described. The method includes performing a pre-scan to determine a distribution of a radiotracer, determining a set of scan parameters based at least partly on results of the pre-scan, performing a comprehensive scan based at least partly on the set of scan parameters, and constructing an image based at least partly on the comprehensive scan. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225988 | UWB Microwave Imaging System with A Novel Calibration Approach For Breast Cancer Detection - An apparatus and method for imaging a tissue. The method includes transmitting a first microwave frequency signal to and receiving a first total signal from the tissue at a first position. A second microwave frequency signal is transmitted to and a second total signal received from the tissue at a second position. The first total signal is calibrated with respect to the second total signal and an image is constructed from the calibrated signal. | 2013-08-29 |
20130225989 | ELECTROMAGNETIC PROBES, METHODS FOR FABRICATION THEREOF, AND SYSTEMS WHICH USE SUCH ELECTROMAGNETIC PROBES - An electromagnetic (EM) probe for monitoring one or more biological tissues. The EM probe comprises a cup shaped cavity having an opening and an interior volume, a circumferential flange formed substantially around the cup shaped cavity, in proximity to the opening, at least one layer of a material, for absorbing electromagnetic radiation, applied over at least one of a portion of the circumferential flange and a portion of the outer surface of the cup shaped cavity, and at least one EM radiation element which performs at least one of emitting and capturing EM radiation via the interior volume. | 2013-08-29 |