Patents Issued in December 8, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160354000
    Abstract: A wearable device is provided. The wearable device includes a photon sensor, a processor, and an output unit. The photon sensor senses light reflected from a specific region and transforms the sensed light to a plurality of electric-signal components. The processor receives the electric-signal components sensed within a period to form a dimensional sensing signal. The processor extracts a feature of a waveform of the dimensional sensing signal and determines whether a predetermined heart condition of the object is present according to the feature of the waveform of the dimensional sensing signal to generate a determination signal. The output unit is coupled to the processor. The output unit receives the determination signal and generates an alarm signal according to the determination signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Chih-Ming FU, Shu-Yu HSU, Po-Wen KU
  • Publication number: 20160354001
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention relates to systems, methods, and apparatus relating to the detection of a neuropathy such as a periopertive neuropathy. In one embodiment, a wristband comprising a plurality of anodes and cathodes is used. The wristband can be a component in a electrode array that includes a plurality of reference or recording electrodes. The electrode array can be configured to stimulate and collect responsive signals from an ulnar, a median, radial and posterior tibial nerve. The simulation and signal collection can be performed on a continuous basis for time periods of interest such as a given perioperative time period using a monitoring device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Jill Buckley, Jay L. Shils
  • Publication number: 20160354002
    Abstract: A method can determine one or more origins of focal activation. The method can include computing phase for the electrical signals at a plurality of nodes distributed across a geometric surface based on the electrical data across time. The method can determine whether or not a given candidate node of the plurality of nodes is a focal point based on the analyzing the computed phase and magnitude of the given candidate node. A graphical map can be generated to visualize focal points detected on the geometric surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: QINGGUO ZENG, RÉMI DUBOIS, PING JIA, RYAN BOKAN, VENKATESH VASUDEVAN, CHARULATHA RAMANATHAN, MARIA STROM, BRIAN P. GEORGE
  • Publication number: 20160354003
    Abstract: A body worn patient monitoring device includes a flexible substrate having a plurality of electrical connections adapted to be coupled to a skin surface to measure physiological signals. The flexible substrate is adapted to be directly and non-permanently affixed to a skin surface of a patient and configured for single patient use. A communication-computation module, removably attached to an upper surface of the flexible substrate, is configured to receive physiological signals from the flexible substrate and includes a microprocessor that is configured to process and analyze the physiological signals. A series of resistive traces screened onto the flexible substrate are configured as at least one series current-limiting resistor to protect the communication-computation module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Steven D. Baker, Eric T. McAdams, James P. Welch
  • Publication number: 20160354004
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to detect and analyze arrhythmia drivers. In one example, a system can include a wave front analyzer programmed to compute wave front lines extending over a surface for each of the plurality of time samples based on phase information computed from electrical data at nodes distributed across the surface. A trajectory detector can be programmed to compute wave break points for each of the wave front lines and to determine a trajectory of at least one rotor core across the surface. A stability detector can be programmed to identify at least one stable rotor portion corresponding to subtrajectories of the determined trajectory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: QINGGUO ZENG, PING JIA, RYAN BOKAN, BRIAN P. GEORGE, CHARULATHA RAMANATHAN, VENKATESH VASUDEVAN, MARIA STROM
  • Publication number: 20160354005
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in connection with receiving signals from a human subject's head through the scalp thereof includes a removable headset having a plurality of electrode stations and intermediate portions. Each electrode station includes an electrode aperture extending therethrough and a biasing flap coupled to the outer side of the headset and at least partially aligned over the associated electrode aperture. A plurality of removable electrodes is releasably engageable with the headset and configured to be releasably suspended within the electrode apertures and biased between the headset and the subject's head by the associated biasing flaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: David Oakley, Edward Altshuler, Scott Seamens
  • Publication number: 20160354006
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a band-type heart electromagnetic wave collecting device, which includes a banded base and a waterproofing conductive electromagnetic wave collection portion disposed thereon, so that the electromagnetic wave collection portion is aligned with the heart to measure electromagnetic wave signals sent by the heart after the band-type heart electromagnetic wave collecting device is surrounded a human chest. The present invention also discloses a manufacture method of a band-type heart electromagnetic wave collecting device. Since a deposition technology is employed in the present invention to deposit metal ions with small resistivity on the device and auxetic materials are used, the device can better cling to skins, so that the data collected is more accurate. A plastic gasket added ensures the intensity and rigidness of the entire band-type heart electromagnetic wave collecting device, so that the device cannot be deformed due to the data collection process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Kok Lap Victor WONG
  • Publication number: 20160354007
    Abstract: A device (10) processes and visualizes EIT data (3) of at least one region of the lungs to determine and visualize ventilation delays in the lungs of a living being. The EIT data (3) are obtained from an electrical impedance tomography apparatus (30). The device makes it possible to visualize regional ventilation delays of the lungs or of regions of the lungs in which the delay exceeds a predefined duration (76) in a joint image (900).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Yvo GÄRBER
  • Publication number: 20160354008
    Abstract: Apparatus for performing impedance measurements on a subject. The apparatus includes a first processing system for determining an impedance measurement procedure and determining instructions corresponding to the measurement procedure. A second processing system is provided for receiving the instructions, using the instructions to generate control signals, with the control signals being used to apply one or more signals to the subject. The second processing system then receives first data indicative of the one or more signals applied to the subject, second data indicative of one or more signals measured across the subject and performs at least preliminary processing of the first and second data to thereby allow impedance values to be determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Scott Chetham, Andrew William Ward, James McFarlane Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20160354009
    Abstract: Minimally invasive systems and methods for navigation-assisted surgery are described. The system comprises a patient reference device and a transmitter. The patient reference device comprises a microsensor disposed at a distal end. The distal end is configured to pierce a patient's skin and to be anchored in a patient's anatomy. The microsensor is at least partially embedded in the patient's anatomy and is anchored proximate to a surgical field of interest. The transmitter is configured to be detachably attached to the patient's skin proximate to the surgical field of interest. The system establishes a global navigation reference frame by transmitting signals from the transmitter and receiving the signals with the microsensor to establish a position and an orientation of the microsensor to register a position and an orientation of the patient's anatomy within the global navigation reference frame. Other embodiments are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Tobias Schroeder
  • Publication number: 20160354010
    Abstract: A system for determining a position of a medical device within a body is provided that reduces positional error by establishing a reference origin closer to the device and/or simplifies the system by integrating components and functions. In one embodiment, a pair of drive electrodes are affixed to opposed surfaces of the body and create a pathway for transmission of current through a position sensor related to the medical device. A pair of reference electrodes proximate the drive electrodes are coupled to a common reference node outputting a reference signal establishing the reference origin. An electronic control unit determines the position of the medical device responsive to the position signal and the reference signal. In another embodiment, a patch affixed to an external surface of the body has a base layer and multiple devices supported on the base layer, electrically isolated from one another, and configured to perform different functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: John A. Hauck, Graydon E. Beatty, Kevin J. Dillon, Mark A. MacGregor
  • Publication number: 20160354011
    Abstract: Provided according to embodiments of the invention are methods, devices and systems for monitoring respiration. Methods described herein include isolating an isolated DC component signal stream, and optionally an isolated AC component signal stream, from the raw PPG signal; calculating a waveform parameter using at least a portion of the isolated DC component signal stream, and optionally, a corresponding portion of the raw PPG signal stream and/or the isolated AC component signal stream; and monitoring respiration in the individual by analyzing the waveform parameter over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Stahl
  • Publication number: 20160354012
    Abstract: An example method includes storing invasive position data representing different positions of one or more sensors in a given coordinate system within a volume defined by an electromagnetic field and storing non-invasive position data representing different positions of a plurality of control points in the given coordinate system determined from a position of one or more sensors. The method also includes computing internal geometry data based on the invasive position data, the internal geometry data representing a three-dimensional anatomical surface within a patient's body. The method also includes computing electrode geometry data based on the non-invasive position data, the electrode geometry data representing a location of each of a plurality of electrodes on an outer surface of the patient's body. Electrical activity sensed by the plurality of electrodes can be reconstructed onto an anatomical envelope within the patient's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: QINGGUO ZENG, PING JIA, CHARULATHA RAMANATHAN, QING LOU, RYAN BOKAN, BRIAN P. GEORGE
  • Publication number: 20160354013
    Abstract: Provided are a method and an apparatus for herpes zoster diagnosis and a recording medium using the method.. The method includes: displaying a body shape image that matches a body dermatome distribution for defining an affected part on the body shape image, determining an area ratio based on an area of at least one dermatome covered by the affected part, and determining whether the affected part concentrates on any one of a left side or a right side with respect to a center line of the body shape image and whether the area ratio is smaller than a predetermined ratio, so as to decide whether the defined affected part is herpes zoster.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: De-Zhang Peng, Chia-Lin Mao, Yi-Chi Lin, Yih-Feng Kao
  • Publication number: 20160354014
    Abstract: A device for recognizing activity of an object. The device comprises a housing configured to be attached to the object and a processing unit disposed in the housing comprising a processor and a movement sensor. The movement sensor measures a signal related to movement of the object during a time window. The processor assigns at least one preliminary activity label to the time window based on at least one numerical descriptor computed from the signal. The processor then determines whether to perform additional analysis dependent upon at least the preliminary activity label. The processor then assigns a final activity label to the time window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Eric C. Lobner, James W. Howard, Richard J. Moore, Jennifer F. Schumacher, Brian J. Stankiewicz
  • Publication number: 20160354015
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a non-invasive method of measuring skin thickness and blood glucose concentration of a subject by a Raman system. The advantage of the present invention is that a single Raman spectrum is used to measure both the skin thickness and glucose concentration. The skin thickness and Raman intensity retrieved from the same Raman spectrum are both utilized to yield a more accurate blood glucose concentration. The present invention also discloses a Raman system for measuring physiological data of a subject. It comprises a Raman spectroscopic unit and a signal processing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Chun ZHANG, Tsz Ho LAU, Yuk Cheung CHAN, Wei Mong TSANG
  • Publication number: 20160354016
    Abstract: An improved microchip spectrophotometer device (101) having a wavelength-sensitive light detector sensor (155) located on a microchip (241) that detects returning broadband light (128) that is narrow-spectrum wavelength filtered by gratings or filtered, such as through an optical collection window (141) on the sensor (155). Optionally, at least a portion of the returning broadband light was produced by one or more solid-state light sources (103, 103A, 103B) incorporated into the microchip device. Multispectral spectroscopic data from the detector is optionally transmitted such as by wire (161), then analyzed by a processor such as a difference unit (167), located on the same microchip or on a processing microchip. Systems incorporating the improved microchip spectrometer, and methods of use are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: Aliphcom
    Inventor: David A. Benaron
  • Publication number: 20160354017
    Abstract: Various methods and systems for obtaining calibration coefficients for pulse oximeter sensors are provided. A method includes passing current through a light emitting element in an oximeter sensor and measuring, utilizing a first voltage sensing lead, a first voltage present at an electrical input of the light emitting element. The method also includes measuring, utilizing a second voltage sensing lead, a second voltage present at an electrical output of the light emitting element and determining a forward voltage of the light emitting element based on the first and second voltages. Utilizing the determined forward voltage, a wavelength of light emitted from the light emitting element is calculated. Utilizing the calculated wavelength of the emitted light, at least one calibration coefficient for the oximeter sensor is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher J. Meehan, Daniel Lisogurski, Charles Keith Haisley
  • Publication number: 20160354018
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dynamically and intelligently estimating analyte data from a continuous analyte sensor, including receiving a data stream, selecting one of a plurality of algorithms, and employing the selected algorithm to estimate analyte values. Additional data processing includes evaluating the selected estimative algorithms, analyzing a variation of the estimated analyte values based on statistical, clinical, or physiological parameters, comparing the estimated analyte values with corresponding measure analyte values, and providing output to a user. Estimation can be used to compensate for time lag, match sensor data with corresponding reference data, warn of upcoming clinical risk, replace erroneous sensor data signals, and provide more timely analyte information encourage proactive behavior and preempt clinical risk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: James H. Brauker, Victoria E. Carr-Brendel, Paul V. Goode, JR., Apurv Ullas Kamath, James Patrick Thrower, Ben Xavier
  • Publication number: 20160354019
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods, apparatuses, etc. for determination and application of a unidimensional metric for assessing a patient's glycemic health. In one particular implementation, a computed metric may be used to balance short-term and long-term risks associated with a particular therapy. In another implementation, a computed unidimensional metric may be used to balance risks of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Lane Desborough, Cesar C. Palerm
  • Publication number: 20160354020
    Abstract: Device (1) for the extraction of blood or a blood compound, that comprises a tube (10), a piston assembly (50), a handle assembly (30) that can be clipped to the piston assembly (50), and a perforable sealing element (70) that prevents the flow of fluid from a sealed interior space (15a) of the tube (10) towards a longitudinal interior cavity (35) of the handle assembly (30) located adjacent to a separable area (33) of the handle assembly (30). In use, the handle assembly (30) is pushed to the bottom of the tube (10), causing the handle assembly (30) to be clipped to the piston assembly (50); the handle assembly (30) and piston assembly (50) are then moved rearwards forming a vacuum in the space (15a); the piston assembly (50) is clipped to an end cap (90) of the tube (10) and the gripping portion (32) of the handle assembly (30) is separated, obtaining a vacuum container with a perforable closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Eduardo ANITUA ALDECOA
  • Publication number: 20160354021
    Abstract: Methods for obtaining a sample from a subject include providing a sample collection device having a novelty exterior. The sample collection device can be used to collection liquid sample such as but not limited to blood, capillary blood, interstitial fluid, or other liquid sample. Samples may be provide by a small wound such as by a finger-stick and the sample may be analyzed in a short period of time, e.g., in less than five hours, or less than four hours.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Pey-Jiun Ko, Elizabeth A. Holmes
  • Publication number: 20160354022
    Abstract: In a method of estimating Internet activity dependence of a human subject, a respiration sensing unit senses respiration-caused thoracic and abdominal movements of the human subject during a first time period, and a subsequent second time period during which an emotion stimulating material played on a multimedia playing unit is being watched by the human subject so as to generate two sets of thoracic and abdominal respiratory signals corresponding respectively to the first and second time periods. A processing unit generates an estimation result associated with the Internet activity dependence based on the emotion stimulating material and the sets of thoracic and abdominal respiratory signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Tzu-Chien Hsiao, Hong-Ming Ji, Dai-Ling Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20160354023
    Abstract: A delirium detection system for automatic, unobtrusive and reliable detection of delirium of a person comprises a processor and a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium contains instructions for execution by the processor. The instructions cause the processor to perform the steps of controlling a stimulus unit to output a stimulus for stimulating the person, receiving and evaluating one or more reaction signals captured by a reaction unit and reflecting the person's reaction to a stimulus, and determining a delirium score from said evaluation of one or more reaction signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas FALCK, Esther Marjan VAN DER HEIDE, Adrienne HEINRICH, Yingrong XIE
  • Publication number: 20160354024
    Abstract: Existing approaches for deception detection are primarily based on polygraph systems that measure specific channels of physiology in highly structured interviews and that are interpreted by trained polygraph examiners. Existing approaches for predicting interviewer accuracy involve interviewers' own estimates of their performances which inevitably are biased. The methods and systems described herein provides objective, quantitative and automated metrics to detect deception and predict interviewer accuracy. Physiological information of the interviewer during the interview is recorded by at least a first sensor. The physiological information includes a time series of physiological data. An interview assessment is calculated by a computer. By processing the recorded physiological information, the interview assessment indicates at least one of whether a statement made by the interviewee is likely to be deceitful and whether the interviewer is likely to be accurate in estimating truthfulness of the interviewee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Nirmal Keshava, Andrea K. Webb, Laura J. Mariano, Philip D. Parks, Joshua C. Poore
  • Publication number: 20160354025
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods, systems, and instruments for the determination by a physician or medical professional whether a subject is experiencing or has recently experienced an overt HE episode and for grading overt HE episodes as well as methods, systems, instruments and tools for screening for overt HE episodes by a non-medical professional such as a caregiver. Also provided are methods of treating HE episodes and methods of monitoring HE episode treatment that incorporate these methods, systems, instruments, and tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Bruce Scharschmidt, Masoud Mokhtarani, Marzena Jurek
  • Publication number: 20160354026
    Abstract: A Pulse-Monitored, Vibrating Vehicle Seat Mechanism is a drowsiness alert system. The Pulse-Monitored, Vibrating Vehicle Seat Mechanism consists of cardiac sensors, a vibration device encased in the vehicle seat upholstery, and communication elements. The mechanism is powered by the electrical system of the given vehicle and can be integrated inside any vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Tedi Zohar
  • Publication number: 20160354027
    Abstract: An occupant support system includes a vehicle seat and an electronics system for the vehicle seat. The electronics system includes a sensor system configured to obtain sensor data and a computer coupled to the sensor system to process the sensor data and perform a predetermined action using the sensor data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Matthew K. BENSON, Dana R. LOWELL, Sean M. MONTGOMERY, Brian R. DEXTER, Jeffery T. BONK, David L. CUMMINGS, Alexander S. HAASE, Samuel BAUDU, Radouane BOUSSETTA, Pioter DRUBETSKOY, Anne-Isabelle DACOSTA-MALLET, Claire MITCHELL
  • Publication number: 20160354028
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to using detected bladder events for the diagnosis of urinary incontinence or the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction. A system includes a sensing device comprising a pressure sensor to directly detect a pressure within a bladder. The sensing device is adapted to be located within the bladder. The system also includes a signal processing device to: receive a signal indicating the detected pressure within the bladder; detect a bladder event based the detected pressure within the signal; and characterize the bladder event as a bladder contraction event or a non-contraction event. The characterization of the bladder event can be used in the diagnosis of urinary incontinence or the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Margot S. Damaser, Swarup Bhunia, Robert Karam, Steve Majerus, Dennis Bourbeau, Hui Zhu
  • Publication number: 20160354029
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for quantifying temporal changes in human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) structural properties, such as Anterior-Posterior tibial shear force (TSF) and Anterior-Posterior tibial shear displacement (TSD) for testing ACL overuse injury during training and minimizing or preventing ACL injury.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventor: David Hawkins
  • Publication number: 20160354030
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vascular image positioning system, including an image enhancing device (1) and an image projection device (2) used cooperatively with the vascular image enhancing device (1). The transmission light emitted by the enhancing device (1) passed through the sites of the human body surface to be tested, is received by the image projection device (2), and after image processing, forms in situ images at sites on the surface of the skin of the human body to be tested. The enhancing device (1) comprises a light emitting unit (101) and a drive unit (102) driving the light emitting unit (101) to emit light. The vascular image positioning system provides the function of using a transmission light source to achieve in situ imaging of the blood vessels at the sites to be tested; secondly, it also provides a mode for combining a transmission light source with a reflection light source, thereby strengthening the function of in situ imaging and widening the application range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Lei TANG, Ming CAI
  • Publication number: 20160354031
    Abstract: Systems and methods for assessing pain in a subject are disclosed. The system can receive pain data indicative of pain in the subject, such as a patient pain drawing or a dermatome map. A processor circuit can use the pain data to generate a plurality of pain descriptors indicative of pain intensity, spatial extent of pain, or temporal pattern of pain. The processor can use the pain descriptors to produce a composite pain score that quantifies overall pain of the subject. The system can include an output unit that can produce a presentation of information about the pain in the subject including the composite pain score.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Jai Shetake, Sherry Lin, Nitzan Mekel-Bobrov
  • Publication number: 20160354032
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises plurality of physiologic sensors and a processor circuit. The sensors provide sensor signals having physiological information and include a heart sound sensor and an impedance sensor. The processor circuit includes a volume index module configured to determine a value of at least one heart sound parameter using the heart sound signal and determine a value of at least one physiological impedance parameter value using the impedance signal, calculate a volume index representative of fluid volume status of the subject using the at least one heart sound parameter value and the at least one physiological impedance parameter value, compare a determined metric of the calculated volume index to one or more high threshold metric values and one or more low threshold metric values, and generate an indication of a fluid volume status of the subject according to the comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Ramesh Wariar
  • Publication number: 20160354033
    Abstract: A vital sign information collection system has a vital sign information measuring device that measures vital sign information, a vital sign information collecting device that performs authentication by attribute information of a measurement subject and collects the vital sign information measured by the vital sign information measuring device, and links the attribute information with the collected vital sign information, and a management device that acquires the attribute information and the vital sign information linked with each other, from the vital sign information collecting device, and retains the vital sign information linked with personal information to identify the measurement subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Kazushige OUCHI, Isao AMEMIYA, Takuzo TAKAYAMA
  • Publication number: 20160354034
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for reducing scar formation about a neural implant due to brain tissue and neural implant movement. In an embodiment, a neural implant is provided which has a surface coating that matches one or more mechanical properties, such as elastic modulus, of the brain tissue, thereby reduce scar formation about the neural implant due to normal brain micromotion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Kevin C. Spencer, Jay Christopher Sy, Michael J. Cima
  • Publication number: 20160354035
    Abstract: A proximity sensor for a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) system detects the proximity of a TMS coil assembly to a position at which the coil is to receive pulses during TMS treatment and provides feedback to the operator so that the operator may adjust the TMS coil assembly to maintain optimal positioning during treatment. A flexible substrate containing a sensor or sensor array is disposed between the TMS coil assembly and the position such that the coupling of the TMS coil assembly to the position may be detected by the sensor(s). Sensor outputs are processed by signal processing circuitry to provide an indication of whether the TMS coil assembly is properly disposed with respect to the position during TMS treatment. A display provides an indication of how to adjust the TMS coil assembly to improve the positioning of the TMS coil assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: NEURONETICS, INC.
    Inventors: Mark Edward Reihl, Kenneth Marc Ghiron, Stanford W. Miller
  • Publication number: 20160354036
    Abstract: A portable bio information measuring device is provided. The portable bio information measuring device includes a circuit board placed in the portable bio information measuring device, a housing accommodating the circuit board, an electrode to measure bio information, and a connecting member electrically connecting the circuit board with the electrode. The electrode is configured as at least one of a transparent electrode, a conductive decoration, and a conductive printed electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Seong-Wook JO, Young-Hyun KIM, Jae-Hong KIM, Min-Hyoung LEE, Jea-Hyuck LEE
  • Publication number: 20160354037
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for measuring the motion of internal joint structures during and for measuring the function of muscles involved with the motion of a joint of a subject are disclosed. The apparatus can be configured in three forms: a horizontal, vertical, or butterfly motion control device. Each configuration comprises a static member and a moving member, in which the moving member operates to move or be moved by the subject being studied. Also disclosed are processes for using each apparatus to measure of the relative motion of skeletal structures in a subject, in which the subject is positioned in the apparatus and commanded to move while diagnostic medical images are taken or captured. Additionally, processes for using each apparatus to specifically measure and collect data on the function of the subject's muscles are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Alan BREEN, Adam DEITZ
  • Publication number: 20160354038
    Abstract: Heart rate monitors are plagued by noisy photoplethysmography (PPG) data, which makes it difficult for the monitors to output a consistently accurate heart rate reading. Noise is often caused by motion. Using known methods for processing accelerometer readings that measure movement to filter out some of this noise may help, but not always. The present disclosure describes an improved filtering approach, referred to herein as an iterative frequency-domain mask estimation technique, based on using frequency-domain representation (e.g. STFT) of PPG data and accelerometer data for each accelerometer channel to generate filters for filtering the PPG signal from motion-related artifacts prior to tracking frequency of the heartbeat (heart rate). Implementing this technique leads to more accurate heart rate measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: ANALOG DEVICES, INC.
    Inventors: SEFA DEMIRTAS, ROBERT ADAMS, JEFFREY G. BERNSTEIN, NOAH DANIEL STEIN, DAVID WINGATE
  • Publication number: 20160354039
    Abstract: Physiological sensors may be utilized to obtain physiological data for a user. The sensor data may be utilized in predicting a user's outcome to a medical intervention using one or more models. The models may be automatically executed in response to receiving certain types and/or amount of data, such as data received from one or more physiological remote sensors, such as Internet of Things sensors. The sensors may include heart rate sensors, arterial pressure sensors, glucose sensors, temperature sensors, weight sensors, blood oxygen sensors, urine sensors, saliva sensors, skin conduction sensors, muscle sensors, brain signal sensors, and/or other sensors. A sensor may communicate over the 2360-2400 MHz and/or the 30-37.5 MHz radio frequency (RF) band. The data may be received from a networked data store. Execution of the models may identify health issues in substantially real time, and the operation of one or more medical devices may be modified and/or a communication may be generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Gabriel Enrique Soto, John Albert Spertus
  • Publication number: 20160354040
    Abstract: A system for analysis of the upper airway has at least two sensors are provided along a flow path leading to the mouth and/or nose of a user. A relation is derived between the two sensor signals, and this is interpreted to detect at least the presence of upper airway obstructions, and preferably also the location and/or extent of such obstructions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Ronaldus Maria AARTS, Joachim KAHLERT, Michel Paul Barbara VAN BRUGGEN, Okke OUWELTJES
  • Publication number: 20160354041
    Abstract: A system and method for determining physiological parameters based on electrical impedance measurements is provided. One method includes obtaining electrical measurement signals acquired from a plurality of transducers coupled to a surface of an object and spatially pre-conditioning the obtained electrical measurement signals. The method also includes performing multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) processing of the spatially pre-conditioned electrical measurement signals to correlate the spatially pre-conditioned electrical measurement signals to separate the electrical measurement signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Amit Satish Gore, Jeffrey Michael Ashe
  • Publication number: 20160354042
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wearable terminal includes a display comprising a front side and a rear side, a first sensing unit configured to sense a biometric characteristic and disposed at the rear side of the display to be proximate to or contact a user's body, a second sensing unit configured to sense a movement of the terminal; and controller configured to execute a different function based on the movement of the terminal when a sensing strength of the biometric characteristic via the first sensing unit is greater than a threshold strength level, wherein the sensing strength is varied based on a portion of the user's body which the first sensing unit is proximate to or is in contact with.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Hongjo SHIM, Yoonwoo LEE, Hyunwoo KIM, Gukchan LIM, Seonghyok KIM, Mihyun PARK
  • Publication number: 20160354043
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for displaying on a user display device alarm-triggering events detected by the medical device based on the location of the user display device. The method comprises receiving alarm-triggering patient data from a medical device and determining the physical location of first and second user display devices. The method further comprises determining that the physical location of the first user display device is designated to have an alarm displayed, and that the physical location of the second user display device is not designated to have an alarm displayed. In response to these determinations, the content of the alarm is displayed on the first user display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher J. Heil, Jeremy A. Flores, Carol A. M. George
  • Publication number: 20160354044
    Abstract: Methods and devices for monitoring the position of a subject are disclosed. One such method includes sensing pressure waves generated by the subject moving on a divided bladder comprising interleaved portions, generating signals indicative of the pressure waves for each of the interleaved portions, and sending the signals to a processor. The method further includes determining the position of the subject based on the difference between the signals from each of the interleaved portions and generating a pattern for the subject. The pattern includes the presence and/or position of the subject over time. The method further includes predicting an action such as an exit of the subject from the divided bladder based on comparing a current pattern for the subject to previous patterns for the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Steven Jay Young, Carl Hewitt, Al Luckow
  • Publication number: 20160354045
    Abstract: Generally, a method or apparatus for tomographically imaging a sample, such as a tumor of a patient, using positively charged particles positions n two-dimensional detector arrays on n surfaces of a scintillation material or scintillator, respectively. Resultant from energy transfer from the positively charged particles, secondary photons are emitted from the scintillation material and detected by the plurality of two-dimensional detector arrays, where each detector array images the scintillation material. Combining signals from the plurality of two-dimensional detector arrays, the path, position, energy, and/or state of the positively charged particle beam as a function of time and/or rotation of the patient relative to the positively charged particle beam is determined and used in tomographic reconstruction of an image of the sample or the tumor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: W. Davis Lee, Mark R. Amato
  • Publication number: 20160354046
    Abstract: A method for generating x-ray images of an examination object is described. In the method, x-rays are emitted in a direction of an x-ray detector, wherein an examination object is arranged between the x-ray detector and an x-ray source emitting the x-rays. An anti-scatter grid, which is arranged between the examination object and the x-ray detector, is moved across the detection surface of the x-ray detector. X-ray detector signals are acquired with temporal and spatial resolution, the x-ray detector signals including the intensity of the x-rays incident on the x-ray detector. The x-ray detector signals are evaluated taking into account a temporal variation of the acquired intensity of the x-ray detector signals caused by the movement of the anti-scatter grid. An x-ray imaging apparatus is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Jörg Freudenberger
  • Publication number: 20160354047
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for displaying information related to a medical imaging scan. Visual regions are shown on a display screen to indicate information of pending, current, and completed medical imaging scans. If additional correction time was utilized for particular table positions in a medical imaging scan, this information is shown on the display screen, in the form of icons, shading, or other visual representations. The medical imaging system may include positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: Jeremy Huston, David Littlejohn, Scott Wollenweber, Joseph Muth
  • Publication number: 20160354048
    Abstract: The invention comprises a method or apparatus for tomographically imaging a sample, such as a tumor of a patient, using positively charged particles. Position, energy, and/or vectors of the positively charged particles are determined using a plurality of scintillators, such as layers of chemically distinct scintillators where each chemically distinct scintillator emits photons of differing wavelengths upon energy transfer from the positively charged particles. Knowledge of position of a given scintillator type and a color of the emitted photon from the scintillator type allows a determination of residual energy of the charged particle energy in a scintillator detector. Optionally, a two-dimensional detector array additionally yields x/y-plane information, coupled with the z-axis energy information, about state of the positively charged particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventors: W. Davis Lee, Mark R. Amato
  • Publication number: 20160354049
    Abstract: Cardiac catheterization is carried out by importing image data of a heart of a living subject into an image-processing computer system, representing the image data as a first model of the heart and the coronary sinus in a first coordinate space, and introducing a probe into the coronary sinus. Thereafter fluoroscopic image data of the probe are used to prepare a second model of the coronary sinus in a second coordinate space, and the first model is transformed into the second coordinate space by placing the coronary sinus of the second model in registration with the coronary sinus of the first model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Applicant: BIOSENSE WEBSTER (ISRAEL) LTD.
    Inventor: Meir Bar-Tal