Abstract: Apparatus and methods for practicing telemedicine in the form of software systems acting over a network and kits containing laboratory supplies and equipment to organize the laboratory operations and interpret the results of molecular diagnostic testing are disclosed. At least two computers in communication over the Internet or other network are used, a remote computer located at a remote site and a central server located at a central site. The remote site may be geographically distant from the central site. A specimen is procured from a patient proximate to the remote site. Laboratory operations are conducted on the specimen at the remote site. The laboratory data resulting from the laboratory operations is interpreted by an expert reviewer who may be located at the central site, and a report is then transmitted back to the remote site.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for practicing telemedicine in the form of software systems acting over a network and kits containing laboratory supplies and equipment to organize the laboratory operations and interpret the results of molecular diagnostic testing are disclosed. At least two computers in communication over the Internet or other network are used, a remote computer located at a remote site and a central server located at a central site. The remote site may be geographically distant from the central site. A specimen is procured from a patient proximate to the remote site. Laboratory operations are conducted on the specimen at the remote site. The laboratory data resulting from the laboratory operations is interpreted by an expert reviewer who may be located at the central site, and a report is then transmitted back to the remote site.

Abstract: The invention involves creation of an integrated genetic testing kit. The kit combines materials and components to aid in performance of each of the steps in a genetic assay. Additionally, the invention describes a variety of electronic tools and adjunct materials to make easier the collection and organization of patient related information that is used in interpretation of the analytic genetic data. One aspect of this invention is as a stand-alone integrated test kit, the test results of which may be in the form of fluoroscopic output. Another aspect of this invention is a telemedicine model. In this model, the invention is a larger genetic testing system in which procurement of genetic material, its testing, and its interpretation may occur at different locations. The telemedicine model comprises the integrated kit, instrumentation, and an electronic transmission system for delivery of the genetic test data to a remote data system where it is interpreted and a report is generated.

Abstract: Diagnostic imaging methods, methods of detecting the margin of tissue structures and bioresponsive needle systems are disclosed. The methods rely on the use of strain signals provided by a strain gage mounted on the wall of one or more needles as the needle or needles are moved through tissue. The systems employ a strain gage mounted on the wall of the needle and a strain monitor providing feedback to a user.

Abstract: A precision controller of the movement of at least a first fluid, includes a precision motor. Valve apparatus is operably coupled to the precision motor. Orifice apparatus is fluidly coupled to a source of fluid and to the valve apparatus, whereby actuation of the valve apparatus by the precision motor acts to selectively expose and cover the orifice to implement fluid valving.

Abstract: A genetic testing system includes a miniaturized thermal cycling device and an integrated, unitary microchip based detection device with microfluidic controls, on chip electronics. The genetic testing system further uses dipped or coated polymeric materials on processed silicon as a means to facilitate amplification chemistry.

Abstract: A genetic testing system includes a miniaturized thermal cycling device and an integrated, unitary microchip based detection device with microfluidic controls, on chip electronics. The genetic testing system further uses dipped or coated polymeric materials on processed silicon as a means to facilitate amplification chemistry.