Abstract: The present invention relates generally to pulse monitoring and, more particularly, to a device, system, method, and program product for monitoring a user's pulse. In one embodiment, the invention provides a pulse monitoring device comprising: a device for detecting a pulse of an individual; and a transmission device for transmitting data related to the detected pulse.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for tracking physiological states and parameters for calorie estimation. A start of an exercise session associated with a user of a wearable computing device is determined. Heart rate data is measured for a first period of time. An onset heart rate value of the user is determined based on the measured heart rate data, the onset heart rate value associated with a lowest valid heart rate measured during the first period of time. A resting heart rate parameter (RHR) of a calorimetry model is associated with at least one of the onset heart rate value, a preset RHR, and an RHR based on user biometric data. Energy expenditure of the user during a second period of time is estimated based on the calorimetry model and a plurality of heart rate measurements obtained by the wearable computing device during the second period of time.

Abstract: A medical diagnostic system includes an image processor to generate a differential frame from two consecutive medical images of the heart based on difference in pixel-by-pixel brightness of the consecutive images. A brightness segmentation image having a plurality of brightness zones is generated based of the differential frame. From the brightness zones, a turbulence index is calculated based on the iso-contour and the area in each brightness zone. The turbulence index is a quantitative representation of a degree of turbulence in the blood flow which can be used to generate a prognosis and/or diagnosis of cardiac function.

Abstract: A medical device includes a housing configured for implantation within a body of a patient. Detection circuitry is disposed in the housing and coupled to an electrode arrangement. The detection circuitry is configured to sense a cardiac electrical signal from the patient. A processor is coupled to the detection circuitry and configured to compute a first measure of heart rate variability (HRV) using the cardiac electrical signal, and compute a second measure of HRV using the cardiac electrical signal, the second measure of HRV differing from the first measure of HRV. The processor is also configured to produce an index of patient status derived from a ratio of the first and second measures of HRV, such that the index is a normalized HRV metric personalized to the patient. The processor or a remote system can use the index to assess acute and chronic changes in patient status.

Abstract: A muscle stimulator that may be used during ARM surgeries is disclosed that may be constructed from (1) a widely available low cost (e.g., $200 per unit) peripheral nerve stimulators or similar stimulator and (2) a relatively simple, handheld surgical probe to provide a low cost muscle stimulator that is adequate for ARM surgeries. These two components could provide a low cost solution to allow doctors in developing countries feasibly perform ARM surgeries with relatively minimal manufacturing and inexpensive maintenance.

Abstract: A device for neural prosthetics is disclosed. The device comprises arrays of micro-wires and a control unit. The control unit connects to and communicates with the micro-wires. The ends of the micro-wires serve as microelectrodes. The microelectrodes are in contact with neural tissue. The micro-wires are covered in sheaths made of conformal material. The ends of the micro-wires protrude beyond the ends of the sheaths. This allows the electrodes to be individually positioned on the neural tissue.

Abstract: This document describes, among other things, a computer-implemented method that includes accessing, by a computer system, electrogram data for a patient, wherein the electrogram data is obtained using one or more leads that sense physiological electrical activity of the patient. The computer system can identify one or more waveform features from the electrogram data, and one or more correlations between values of the one or more waveform features and analyte levels. One or more estimated analyte levels in the patient are determined based on 1) the one or more waveform features identified from the electrogram data and 2) the one or more correlations. The computer system can output information related to the one or more estimated analyte levels.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for predicting risk of adverse cardiovascular events and/or mortality in an individual comprises the steps of: a) recording an electrocardiogram from the individual; b) analyzing the electrocardiogram to detect the presence of wave form elements; c) calculating a risk score based on the presence of the wave form elements; and d) predicting risk of adverse cardiovascular events and/or mortality based on the risk score. In another aspect, calculation of the risk score is based on a longitudinal assessment of wave form elements and adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in a population-based cohort study. In yet another aspect, steps (a) to (c) are performed by a compatible recording instrument programmed to detect, quantitate, and analyze the wave form elements and calculate the risk score based upon the wave form elements.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment providing one or more improvements includes apparatus and methods for sensing electrical activity in tissue of a person in a manner which is substantially limits or eliminates interference from noise in a surrounding environment.

Abstract: Body electrode system including a set of standalone electrodes units for measuring physiological signals of a body part and/or electrically stimulate a body part. A connecting garment provides electrical connection between each standalone unit of the set. Each unit of the set is individually positionable at a specific chosen position onto the body to be sensed and/or stimulated. The garment is electrically connectable to said units, preferably after placement of said set onto the body.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device with electrodes configured to record electrical activity that are confined to a restricted area, using recorded biological electrical signals to control cursor position in a speech-assistance interface, and using recorded biological signals to detect arousals during sleep.

Abstract: A biopotential monitoring device and use of such device. The device includes a configurable receiver circuit having a plurality of channels for receiving a plurality of biopotential signals from a biological tissue via a plurality of inputs coupled with the electrodes, and each channel substantially removes a DC (direct current) offset from a corresponding one of the biopotential signals and then band-pass amplifies such corresponding biopotential signal at a configurable gain and particular frequency range based on frequency control signals. The device further includes a controller circuit for receiving commands for configuring frequency characteristics of each biopotential signal. The controller automatically generates the frequency control signals based on such commands and outputs such frequency control signals to the configurable receiver circuit. The controller outputs a representation of each biopotential signal to an analyzer device that is configured to analyze such biopotential signal.

Abstract: Circuits and computer program products onboard and/or adapted to communicate with an scanner that electronically recognize predefined physical characteristics of the at least one tool to automatically segment image data provided by the scanner whereby the at least one tool constitutes a point of interface with the system. The circuits and computer program products are configured to provide a User Interface that defines workflow progression for an image guided surgical procedure and allows a user to select steps in the workflow, and generate multi-dimensional visualizations using the predefined data of the at least one tool and data from images of the patient in substantially real time during the surgical procedure.

Abstract: A moisture sensor includes a pair of electrode plates separated by a moisture absorbent material that forms the dielectric of a capacitive sensor. As the absorbent dielectric material absorbs moisture, such as perspiration, the capacitance of the sensor changes reflecting a quantitative measure of perspiration absorbed. The sensor can be stabilized by capacitively coupling the dielectric material to the skin of the user to improve sensor stability and noise rejection. The sensor can include a capacitive sensing integrated circuit that measures the capacitance of the sensor in close proximity to the electrodes to limit the introduction of noise.

Abstract: A tissue compression sensor system is disclosed. The tissue compression system includes an RF electrode positioned on an end-effector; a first electrical contact positioned on one of an anvil or a channel frame of the end-effector; and a first filter communicatively coupled to the first electrical contact.

Abstract: A portable pneumotachograph for determining components in an exhalation volume. The problem of extreme sensitivity of sensors to temperature and moisture content of the gases, and cross-sensitivities to other potential components of the exhalation gas, is solved by providing a climate control chamber wherein a defined gas atmosphere can be set such that by means of the climate control chamber the relative humidity and/or temperature and/or composition of a sample and/or calibration gas can be set to predefined parameters.

Abstract: Measurement of airway resistance and/or lung compliance during non forced exhalation is performed using initial occlusion of exhalation followed by removal of the occlusion or opening of a shutter. The measurement device can use a single sensor to measure both pressure and flow. A pressure monitor can detect that exhalation is improperly forced to signal an error or to reject a pressure and flow measurement from a forced exhalation trial.

Abstract: A bi-directional flow sensor may be adapted for reducing pneumatic noise during pressure sensing with a flow passing through the flow sensor. The flow sensor may include a hollow, tubular member having a throat section disposed between a ventilator end and a patient end. A flow restrictor may be disposed in the throat section and may be adapted to measure differential pressure in the flow. A baffle may be mounted at the ventilator end and may be adapted to minimize non-axial flow at pressure taps located on opposing ends of the flow restrictor. The patient end may include a flow obstruction configured to promote uniform velocity across the flow at the pressure taps during exhalation flow from the patient end to the ventilator end. The flow sensor can minimize pneumatic noise to less than 0.1 LPM to allow accurate patient flow measurement and triggering of inhalation and exhalation phases at flow rates of 0.2 LPM.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described, including a method for measuring an opening of an appendage of an atrium of a subject. A catheter is inserted into the atrium, and at least one loop is deployed from a wall of the catheter, such that a distal end of the loop is distal to a distal end of the catheter. The loop is used to measure the opening of the appendage. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Luminal organ sizing devices and methods. In at least one embodiment of a method of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of introducing at least part of a first device into a luminal organ at an aperture or opening of the luminal organ, the first device having a balloon positioned thereon; inflating the balloon at the aperture or opening of the luminal organ until a point of apposition is achieved; and obtaining a first aperture or opening measurement based upon the point of apposition.

Abstract: A device for orthopedic measurements includes a main housing, a center member, a measurement indicator, and a flexible member. The main housing has a proximal end with a top opening and a distal end with a side opening, and defines a longitudinal axis and includes a main housing cavity. The center member is disposed along the longitudinal axis within the main housing cavity. The measurement indicator is operatively connected to the center member, and is configured and adapted to display a measurement of a distance. The flexible member is threaded through the main housing cavity, and includes a first end and an opposed second end with an eyelet disposed proximate the side opening of the main housing. The eyelet is configured to be drawn away from the main housing, extending the flexible member outward with respect to the side opening to display a measurement on the measurement indicator.

Abstract: A specifying method includes specifying a first period for which it is determined that a specific movement or a specific posture is being performed by applying a first threshold to time series data obtained from a sensor for detecting a movement of a person, specifying a second period for which it is determined that the specific movement or the specific posture is being performed by applying a second threshold to the time series data, the second threshold being eased compared to the first threshold, specifying a transitional period based on a difference between the second period and the first period, the transitional period corresponding to one of a period of a transition to the specific movement or the specific posture, and another period of another transition from the specific movement or the specific posture to another movement or another posture and outputting a result.

Abstract: A biometric authentication device collates pre-registered biometric data for authentication with biometric data acquired during authentication. An imaging section images biometric data acquired by penetration through the finger by near-infrared light from a near-infrared light irradiating section. A control section acquires the biometric data acquired by the imaging section. A visible light irradiating section irradiates a finger inserting section where the finger is inserted with visible light. The visible light irradiating section starts irradiation of the visible light before the imaging section acquires the biometric data.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for monitoring patient orientation, direction, altitude and location to determine the need for turns as well as to detect impending or actual bed exits or falls. A patient-worn sensor communicates with at least one host server through a mesh network of relay antennae to provide data representative of various patient characteristics. The sensor comprises one or more of an accelerometer, a magnetometer and an altimeter, along with optional other sensors. Various user interfaces are provided for managing patient care using the information developed by algorithms processed at the server based on data received from the patient sensors.

Abstract: A position sensing apparatus includes a position sensor, a voltage/current detector, and an alarm. The position sensor is coupled to the body part and includes a capsule, and first and second electrodes. The capsule has an interior volume configured to contain a liquid with a first density, and a contact member having a second density different from the first density. The first and second electrodes are fixed to the capsule to define a sensor meridian that is coupled to a tilt angle of the body part, with each electrode having a distal portion in the interior volume of the capsule, and the distal portions being configured to form a circuit with the liquid or the contact member. The voltage/current detector is configured to detect a change in a state of the circuit, and the alarm is configured to respond to the voltage/current detector.

Abstract: A network of wearable sensors is disclosed that can include a first sensor configured to be worn or carried on a first part of a body and a second sensor configured to be worn or carried on a second part of the body. The network can include, or can communicate with, a mobile device that can receive sensor information from both the first and second sensors. The combined sensor information can be used to determine the stance or motions of a user wearing or carrying the first and second sensors. The sensor information can also be used to determine that a user is performing a particular activity, exercise, or the like. Recognized activities or exercises can be tracked and recorded throughout a workout. Sensors can also include mechanisms to provide user feedback, and software applications can provide statistics and progress information based on tracked activity.

Abstract: A method of generating and measuring transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) acoustic signals generated in the cochlea using a scheme of stimulating both ears simultaneously and one of each ears in a switching scheme with automated detection of contralateral suppression of TEOAE via statistical analysis of suppressed and unsuppressed responses.

Abstract: A mechanism is described for facilitating non-invasive and non-skin piercing monitoring of blood glucose according to one embodiment. A method of embodiments, as described herein, includes receiving a body part including a finger, where the body part in the placement area causes interruptions in the running of a light. The method may further include detecting initial readings corresponding to the interruptions, the initial readings including signals, where a signal is generated each time the light is interrupted while passing through the body part, calculating absolute values based on the initial readings, and computing a final glucose reading based on the absolute values.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a blood glucose management device capable of generating valid blood glucose data and an operation method therefor, the device compelling the input of state information (e.g., an empty stomach and time information such as two hours postprandial) at the time of blood glucose measurement by a measurer for the acquisition of accurate blood glucose data. The blood glucose management method may comprise the steps of: sensing the connection of a blood glucose meter; outputting to a display unit a state information input window for inputting state information at the time of blood glucose measurement if the connection of the blood glucose meter is sensed; and controlling the blood glucose meter to measure blood glucose if the state information is input.

Abstract: The techniques discussed herein ascertain a biological condition via bioelectric signals.

Abstract: A glucose rate increase detector (GRID) for use in an artificial pancreas (AP), wherein the GRID detects in a person persistent increases in glucose associated with a meal, and either triggers a meal bolus to blunt meal peak safely, during closed-loop control, or alerts the person to bolus for a meal, during open-loop control.

Abstract: A mechanism is described for facilitating non-invasive and non-skin piercing monitoring of blood hemoglobin according to one embodiment. A method of embodiments, as described herein, includes receiving a body part including a finger, where the body part in the placement area causes one or more sets of interruptions in the running of a light, where each set of interruptions includes a plurality of interruptions, and detecting initial readings corresponding to interruptions of the one or more sets of interruptions, the initial readings including signals, where an analog signal is generated each time the light is interrupted while passing through the body part. The method may further include calculating absolute values based on average raw values, where calculating includes computing an average absolute value based on the absolute values, and computing a final hemoglobin reading based on the average absolute value.

Abstract: A pulse photometer includes: a first variation acquirer acquiring a first variation corresponding to a light attenuation variation of a first light beam due to pulsation of blood in a subject, based on a first intensity signal corresponding to an intensity of the first light beam that is transmitted through or reflected from a body of the subject, and that has a first wavelength; a second variation acquirer acquiring a second variation; and a concentration calculator calculating a blood light absorber concentration, based on the first and second variations, the second variation containing a first offset which is based on an inverse of the light attenuation variation of the first light beam.

Abstract: A hemodialysis patient data acquisition and management system resides on a host computer which receives information from one or more non-invasive, optical blood monitors associated with a hemodialysis system. When a patient is undergoing hemodialysis treatment, a sensor assembly monitors the patient's blood flowing through the hemodialysis system and a controller for the blood monitor generates data which includes at least an identification code for the patient undergoing the treatment on the respective system, and non-invasively determined blood data taken at the onset of the scheduled treatment, such as initial Hgb, HCT, and SAT values. A host computer communicates with the one or more optical blood monitors, preferably via a wireless network, and the patient's session commencement data is downloaded to the host computer.

Abstract: A bio information measuring device is provided. The bio information measuring device includes a sensor portion and a needle portion including a plurality of needles projecting from a plurality of openings formed in a surface of the sensor portion. The plurality of needles are configured to pierce tissue, wherein the plurality of needles include a biocompatible organic material which includes an enzyme member that reacts with an analysis material and a conductive polymer for transferring an electrical signal generated as a result of a reaction of the enzyme member with the analysis material.

Abstract: Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes an electrochemical sensor incorporating a silver/silver chloride reference electrode, wherein a capacity of the reference electrode is controlled.

Abstract: Systems and methods for autonomous intravenous needle insertion are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a system for autonomous intravenous insertion include a robot arm, one or more sensors pivotally attached to the robot arm for gathering information about potential insertion sites in a subject arm, a medical device pivotally attached to the robot arm, and a controller in communication with the sensors and the robot arm, wherein the controller receives the information from the sensors about potential insertion sites, and the controller selects a target insertion site and directs the robot arm to insert the medical device into the target insertion site.

Abstract: A blood-collecting needle is provided in which, when a disposable blood-collecting needle is inserted into a semiautomatic blood collection device to collect blood, the blood-collecting needle not only reduces pain, but achieves perfect sanitation to relieve the sense of danger and anxiety felt by a user, and the length of the blood-collecting needle is freely changed in multiple stages. A multi-bump disposed on a lower end of a main body may smoothly pass through a needle passage of the blood collection device to reduce pain while instantly contacting the peripheral epidermis during self-injection. The multi-bump may sanitarily collect blood while blocking the needle passage of the blood collection device. Also, the length of the blood-collecting needle may be freely changed in an optimal state according to various conditions by means of a simple method in which the multi-bump is cut in multiple stages.

Abstract: Devices are provided to automatically access blood from beneath or within skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a needle into the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin. These devices additionally include a seal to which suction is applied. To drive the needle into the skin, the needle is first driven through the seal, creating at least one hole in the seal. The suction applied to the seal acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin by the needle, through the at least one hole in the seal, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood from skin, for example, to access blood from the skin at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.

Abstract: An alertness device includes: a respiration sensor that obtains respiratory data of a person; a calculation unit; a waveform generation unit that generates a respiratory interval (RI) waveform which is a transition in a predetermined time period of an RI which is an interval for one respiration; and a determination unit. The calculation unit calculates an average value of the RI and RrMSSDn in a predetermined time period. In a case where an average value of the subsequent RI is greater than an average value of the RI directly previous to the subsequent RI and in a case where the RrMSSDn of the subsequent RI is greater than a value which is obtained by multiplying the RrMSSDn of the previous RI by a constant ?, the determination unit determines on the basis of values calculated by the calculation unit that the person is in a state of low alertness.

Abstract: Information from a sensor that is local to a user is received. The information may indicate that the user has experienced a physiological event. The information is analyzed to determine whether the physiological event should be classified as an allergic reaction. If the physiological event should be classified as an allergic reaction, an action is taken such as particles currently present in the environment local to the user are collected.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing birthmarks on the skin with the use of the microprocessor diagnostic system characterized in that the image of skin area recorded by a camera (1) is transmitted to the microprocessor diagnostic system (2), and implemented in its interior algorithms executed by the microprocessor perform image analysis in order to obtain diagnostic information, wherein at first area subjected to testing is typed (3) within which the birthmarks are detected (4), then the coordinates of the birthmarks are determined and they are counted (5) and compared (6) with previous records of the same skin area stored in the database (8), giving the result (7) constituting the material, which is determining the growth of the amount of birthmarks and its dynamics on a given area of the skin.

Abstract: There are provided an apparatus and method for measuring thermal conductivity capable of easily and accurately obtaining an extent of thermal damage of a targeted tissue. The apparatus for measuring thermal conductivity in burns includes a thermal paper stacking member having a plurality of sheets of thermal paper stacked thereon to form layers, and a pressing member configured to press the stacking member so that the thermal paper is stacked and maintained in a closely adhered state. Here, an extent of thermal damage of the targeted tissue according to the depth can be calculated as an extent of thermal damage of the stacking member according to the depth.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring pressure exerted on an individual at one or more points by a support structure and adjusting the support structure in response to the monitored pressure are disclosed. The method for monitoring pressure may include the step of periodically receiving with at least three radio frequency readers, localized contact pressure data from a radio frequency addressable sensor placed on an individual. The method may further include, when an adjustment is required, calculating a radial distance defining a radius of the radio frequency addressable sensor to the at least three radio frequency readers, and calculating an intersection location or overlap of the radii such that the location of the radio frequency addressable sensor is determined. The method may also include, when the location of the radio frequency addressable sensor is determined, adjusting cells within a zone or subzone corresponding to the location.

Abstract: A hypodermic needle device (10) includes a hypodermic needle (1) having a tubular bore and at least one optical waveguide (12, 15) extending along said needle so that a distal end of the at least one optical waveguide is in proximity to a tip of the needle. A first coupler (25) secures the optical waveguide within the needle at the proximal end of the needle, and a second coupler (27) removably secures a proximal end of the optical waveguide to a respective illumination source (14) in order that light will emanate from the distal end of the at least one optical waveguide. The second coupler (27) contains a lens for focusing light from the illumination source through the at least one optical waveguide (12, 15), and the second coupler (27) is remote from the first coupler (25).

Abstract: Device and method for identifying respiration waveforms during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the method including obtaining CO2 measurements from a subject undergoing CPR, processing the CO2 measurements by applying a waveform detection algorithm thereto, wherein the waveform detection algorithm is configured to identify respiration waveforms and filtering out compression derived waveform-like signals; and identifying a respiration rate of the subject based on the identified respiration waveforms.

Abstract: A wearable medical examination and treatment device and system are introduced. The wearable medical examination and treatment device includes an enclosing unit, test electrode unit, ground electrode, processing module and transmission module which are disposed at the enclosing unit. The enclosing unit encloses a human body part of a subject and is fixed thereto by positioning holes disposed at the enclosing unit. The test electrode unit and ground electrode are in contact with acupoint testing points of the human body part. The processing module is electrically connected to the test electrode unit and ground electrode and sends testing and treating electrical signals according to testing and treating instructions. The transmission module is electrically connected to the processing module to send impedance signals to an external electronic device so as for the subject's physiological information to be displayed on the electronic device according to the impedance signals.

Abstract: An independent wearable health monitoring system, configured for use by a living being on a daily basis. The system includes a knitted garment worn by the living being adjacently to preconfigured body locations, a garment-processing device having processor, and a multiplicity of sensors adapted to measure health parameters, wherein at least some sensors are integrally knitted with the knitted garment, and wherein the knitted textile sensors include electrodes adapted to provide ECG data. The system further includes an interface adapted to operatively connect at least one external medical device to the garment-processing device. Preferably, the health monitoring system further includes two conductive, integrally knitted pads operatively disposed tightly adjacently to the skin of the monitored living being, adapted to facilitate placing of a respective defibrillator paddles thereon and applying defibrillator shocks.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods, devices and systems for transcranial stimulation.

Abstract: Devices are provided to automatically inject drugs or other payloads into or beneath skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a hollow needle into the skin and subsequently to deliver the payload through the hollow needle. Applied suction acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin through the hollow needle, into the device, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. In some examples, the blood is drawn through the hollow needle when the hollow needle is penetrating the skin. In some examples, these devices are additionally configured to retract the hollow needle from the skin and/or to perform some other functions. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood or deliver a payload into skin, for example, to operate at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.