Abstract: A self-clearing actuator configured to be positioned in a pore providing fluid communication into a central lumen of a ventricular catheter body is described. The actuator extends into a central bore via a cantilever beam having a first end emanating at the central bore and a second end terminating at the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to reciprocate within the central bore between a first position extending downward at an angle into the central bore and a second position substantially at or above the external surface of the catheter. The cantilever beam is stressed, e.g. via a composite compress layer, such that it is preloaded to nominally curve downward to extend the actuator into the second position. The actuator is preferably a magnet responsive to magnetic field such that the magnetic field drives the actuator toward the first position.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging device includes an elongate flexible member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end and a solenoid coil affixed to the distal end of the elongate flexible member, the solenoid coil having a plurality of wire turns, the solenoid coil connected to a twisted-pair of leads extending proximally along the length of the flexible member. A connector is disposed at the proximal end of the elongate flexible member, the connector operatively coupled to the twisted-pair of leads. In an alternative embodiment, a coaxial cable substitutes for the lumen-containing elongate flexible member.

Abstract: A self-clearing actuator configured to be positioned in a pore providing fluid communication into a central lumen of a ventricular catheter body is described. The actuator extends into a central bore via a cantilever beam having a first end emanating at the central bore and a second end terminating at the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to reciprocate within the central bore between a first position extending downward at an angle into the central bore and a second position substantially at or above the external surface of the catheter. The cantilever beam is stressed, e.g. via a composite compress layer, such that it is preloaded to nominally curve downward to extend the actuator into the second position. The actuator is preferably a magnet responsive to magnetic field such that the magnetic field drives the actuator toward the first position.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein provides methods and apparati that utilize micro-electro-mechanical systems that can be used for example to prevent and/or clear obstructions in the fluid conduits of medical devices such as catheters.

Abstract: An array is placed in contact with or close proximity with an organ or tissue surface to cause electroporation for gene, protein, drug delivery in both ex vivo and in vivo applications. A low DC voltage with a short pulse duration, and long burst pulse is applied to the array. A long rest period is provided between pulse bursts to allow for cell recovery. To enable the application of a low voltage shock in a large organ with same transfection efficiency, four gene, protein and drug delivery systems are illustrated.

Abstract: A selectively actuatable microstructure is provided having a base, a cantilevered element supported by at least one mechanical attachment attached to the base which permits the element to change its orientation, and at least one layer of magnetically-active material placed on one or more regions of a surface of the cantilevered element. A selectively applied magnetic field can apply torque to the cantilevered element and cause it to move. A voltage source causes a Coulombic attractive force for holding the cantilevered element against movement in the presence of an applied magnetic field. A number of the selectively actuatable microstructures may be provided in an array so that each of the microstructures may be individually actuated by the selective switching of the corresponding voltage sources.