Abstract: A layered microneedle device can have successively stacked layers that each include microneedles and perforations positioned between the microneedles. The layers can be stacked to permit microneedles of a lower layer to extend through the perforations of an upper layer. Thus, microneedles of successively stacked layers can extend away from individual layers in a common direction.

Abstract: A counting unit is provided for use in an electrical device. The counting unit is configured to count a thermal event such as an autoclave cleaning operation when the electrical device is not electrically powered. In one aspect, the counting unit includes a rotary member and an actuator, the actuator is configured to change shape from a first configuration to a second configuration when subjected to a predetermined temperature, wherein in the second configuration, the actuator engages the rotary member so as to rotate the rotary member. In another aspect, the counting unit includes a plunger, a drive and a heat resistant arm configured to release the plunger during a thermal event and retain the plunger when the electrical device is cooled down.

Abstract: A light source for an endoscope system includes a receptacle for receiving a first end of a light guide cable, a light engine with at least one LED configured to provide light transmitted from the first end of the light guide cable to a second end of the light guide cable connected to an endoscope, and a light output controller configured to adjust an intensity level of the light engine according to a set intensity level when an imaging mode is selected and at least one auxiliary mode to indicate to the user a status of the system such as a standby mode, a disconnected light guide cable, or additional statuses related to the functioning of the endoscope system.

Abstract: A layered microneedle device can have successively stacked layers that each include microneedles and perforations positioned between the microneedles. The layers can be stacked to permit microneedles of a lower layer to extend through the perforations of an upper layer. Thus, microneedles of successively stacked layers can extend away from individual layers in a common direction.

Abstract: A skin treatment can include applying a microneedle device to a region of the skin so that microneedles of the device penetrate the stratum corneum. The arrangement of microneedles can have first microneedles with a first length and second microneedles with a second length, different from the first length. The first and second microneedles can be formed from a mixture of a polymeric material and an active agent beneficial to skin. After the device is applied to the skin, the first and second microneedles can be released below the skin surface, followed by dissolution of the first and second microneedles.

Abstract: A skin treatment can include applying a microneedle device to a region of the skin so that microneedles of the device penetrate the stratum corneum. The arrangement of microneedles can have first microneedles with a first length and second microneedles with a second length, different from the first length. The first and second microneedles can be formed from a mixture of a polymeric material and an active agent beneficial to skin. After the device is applied to the skin, the first and second microneedles can be released below the skin surface, followed by dissolution of the first and second microneedles.

Abstract: A skin treatment device is provided including bioerodible polymeric microneedles which are designed to more effectively deliver beneficial agents to the skin. The device includes a flexible substrate and an arrangement, for example, an array, of microneedles projecting from the substrate.

Abstract: A skin treatment device is provided including bioerodible polymeric microneedles which are designed to more effectively deliver beneficial agents to the skin. The device includes a flexible substrate and an arrangement, for example, an array, of microneedles projecting from the substrate.

Abstract: A skin treatment device is provided including bioerodible polymeric microneedles which are designed to more effectively deliver beneficial agents to the skin. The device includes a flexible substrate and an arrangement, for example, an array, of microneedles projecting from the substrate.