Abstract: One embodiment provides a method implemented by a powered inflation device to prepare a balloon catheter for use during a medical procedure. In this embodiment, the method includes drawing an amount of medical fluid from a fluid reservoir into the inflation device during a first motorized operation of the inflation device, removing an amount of air from the balloon catheter during a second motorized operation of the inflation device, and injecting the amount of medical fluid from the inflation device into the balloon catheter during a third motorized operation of the inflation device to inflate a balloon located at a distal end of the balloon catheter. The powered inflation device may be a stand-alone device in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the powered inflation device is coupled to an angiographic injector system. When it is coupled to an angiographic injector system, the balloon inflation device and the injector system may be controlled by a common control panel, or console, in one embodiment.

Abstract: The invention enables bi-directional mobile communication by researchers, clinicians or counselors with their patients and study participants. An exemplary application is ecological momentary assessment of psychological and physical status related to weight management. The system may be combined with objective information to trigger a communication and enhance responses assessed on food choices, dietary intake, physical activity, exertion, mood and companions.

Abstract: One embodiment provides a method implemented by a powered inflation device to prepare a balloon catheter for use during a medical procedure. In this embodiment, the method includes drawing an amount of medical fluid from a fluid reservoir into the inflation device during a first motorized operation of the inflation device, removing an amount of air from the balloon catheter during a second motorized operation of the inflation device, and injecting the amount of medical fluid from the inflation device into the balloon catheter during a third motorized operation of the inflation device to inflate a balloon located at a distal end of the balloon catheter The powered inflation device may be a stand-alone device in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the powered inflation device is coupled to an angiographic injector system. When it is coupled to an angiographic injector system, the balloon inflation device and the injector system may be controlled by a common control panel, or console, in one embodiment.

Abstract: This invention proposes a device directed to rapid surgical removal of the nucleus pulposus from the spine intervertebral space. The invention is manipulated within the intervertebral space to engage and dislodge small pieces of nucleus material that are mobilized proximally for disposal. Aspects of the invention are included to protect the endplate tissue of vertebrae and limit damage to the integrity of the disc annulus.

Abstract: The invention enables controlled descent from a height to the ground. A gerotor compressor causes fluid to flow through a restriction which limits the rotational speed of a spool attached to the compressor shaft. As the spool rotates a line or cord wound on the spool is controllably released allowing a person or object attached to the compressor to descend at a safe rate.

Abstract: This invention proposes devices and methods directed to providing rapid and complete surgical removal of the nucleus from the spine intervertebral space. In addition, the invention protects the endplate tissue of vertebrae containing the disc and limits damage to the integrity of the disc annulus.

Abstract: The system and method of this invention increases customer contact and affinity with a business through services and information provided via a data storage device. In one exemplary embodiment a retail business provides a targeted customer with a pocket flash drive unit customized with the business's logo on the outside and information specifically chosen for the customer in the device memory. The customer is encouraged to regularly patronize the business to obtain further information of value onto the flash drive.

Abstract: A medical stopcock is provided that is constructed and arranged to withstand high pressures and gamma irradiation. The stopcock generally includes a housing and a valve member. The valve member is trapped within the housing so that, when subjected to relatively high pressures, the valve member is unlikely to become separated from the housing. A handle member is attached to the valve member and allows the valve member to be rotated from open to closed positions. In some preferred embodiments, the handle member locks the valve member within the housing, when attached. All of the components are constructed of gamma-stable materials so that the stopcock may be sterilized, in its package, using gamma irradiation.

Abstract: A medical stopcock is provided that is constructed and arranged to withstand high pressures and gamma irradiation. The stopcock generally includes a housing and a valve member. The valve member is trapped within the housing so that, when subjected to relatively high pressures, the valve member is unlikely to become separated from the housing. A handle member is attached to the valve member and allows the valve member to be rotated from open to closed positions. In some preferred embodiments, the handle member locks the valve member within the housing, when attached. All of the components are constructed of gamma-stable materials so that the stopcock may be sterilized, in its package, using gamma irradiation.