Abstract: The invention relates to a chamber (100) for encapsulating secreting cells producing at least one substance of interest, the chamber comprising: —an upper washer (120) and a bottom washer (110) configured to be oppositely placed on a side and on another side of two semi-permeable membranes (141, 142), —optionally at least one intermediate washer (130), provided between both membranes, in a plane sensibly parallel to upper and bottom washers planes and delimiting two superposed half cells spaces (S1, S2) capable of containing the secreting cells producing the at least one substance of interest, —optionally sealing means (150) the upper and the bottom washers (120, 110) being tightly clipped together, incorporating the intermediate washer (130) therebetween.

Abstract: A tool-holding arm includes a plurality of links and a tool coupling that removably secures a tool to the tool-holding arm. A first fluid spring provides a gravity-counteracting force to the tool-holding arm. A locking mechanism selectively locks the first fluid spring. An adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts an amount of the gravity-counteracting force provided by the first fluid spring.

Abstract: A notch treatment method for flaw simulation including providing the specimen with the notch, the notch having a re-melt material layer; isolating the notch; and selectively etching the notch to provide an etched surface of the notch; wherein at least a portion of the re-melt material layer has been removed from the notch. In one aspect, there is provided a notch treatment method for flaw simulation including providing the specimen with the notch, the notch having a re-melt material layer, the specimen includes steel or an alloy thereof; isolating the notch; and selectively etching the notch with a first etching solution and a second etching solution to provide an etched surface on the notch; wherein at least a portion of the re-melt material layer has been removed from the notch.

Abstract: Composite materials and methods of producing the same are provided. In some embodiments, the composite materials can comprise a polymer substrate, an intermediary material, such as a metal or oxide, mechanically attached onto the polymer substrate, and an elastomer bonded to the polymer substrate on the side of the polymer substrate comprising the intermediary materials. The elastomer can be bonded to the polymer substrate irreversibly, where the elastomer and the polymer substrate cannot be separated at their interface without breaking either the elastomer or the polymer substrate. In some embodiments, a primer and/or an epoxy can also be used. Uses of material sputtering or sputtered materials are also provided to bond a parylene substrate and silicone elastomer, or to enhance the relative strength of the bonding between the two. In addition, composite materials, and the use thereof, involving a parylene substrate, an elastomer receptacle, and liquid silicone are provided.

Abstract: Multi-layered prosthetic constructs, kits, and methods are disclosed. A prosthetic construct can include a first ceramic component having a first surface, the first ceramic component comprising a first ceramic material, and a second ceramic component having a second surface disposed on the first surface of the first ceramic component, the second ceramic component comprising a second ceramic material. The second ceramic material of the second ceramic component can exert a compressive force on the first ceramic material. A ceramic material of the second ceramic component can include a different coefficient of thermal expansion than a ceramic material of the first ceramic component. Optionally, a ceramic construct can include a ceramic component and a membrane disposed onto and bonded to at least a portion of the ceramic component, the membrane configured to provide fracture reinforcement to the ceramic component.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses are presented that involve forming patterns on neo-epithelium that allow increased functionality and may more nearly resemble the original epithelium. In one instance, a patterned neo-epithelium dressing for treating a tissue site having granulation tissue includes an interface member for placing proximate the granulation tissue and a plurality of three-dimensional features formed on a second, patient-facing side of the interface member. Other systems, methods, and apparatuses are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and a system for producing a change in a medium disposed in an artificial container. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one of a plasmonics agent and an energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy through the artificial container to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining muscle force are presented. Proportional, integral, and derivative control is used to simulate muscle forces for multiple muscles contributing to a kinematic profile. The simulated muscle forces are modified by dynamic gains that are calculated in order to achieve a muscle recruitment objective such as minimizing collective muscle effort while still achieving the kinematic motion.

Abstract: A method and a system for producing a change in a medium. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the energy modulation agent.

Abstract: A new substrate makes it possible to modify surface properties relating to biocompatibility. Said substrate has an electron donating surface, characterized in having metal particles on said surface, said metal particles comprising palladium and at least one metal chosen from gold, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium, iridium, and platinum, wherein the amount of said metal particles is from about 0.001 to about 8 ?g/cm2. The substrate is suggested for different uses, such as for modifying the hydrophobicity, protein adsorption; tissue ingrowth, complement activation, inflammatory response, thrombogenicity, friction coefficient, and surface hardness.

Abstract: A method and a system for producing a change in a medium disposed in an artificial container. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one of a plasmonics agent and an energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy through the artificial container to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for determining a position of an orthopedic prosthesis includes a patient support platform, a sensor array coupled to the patient support platform, and a controller electrically coupled to the sensor array. The sensor array is configured to generate data signals in response to an output signal of a signal source(s) coupled to the orthopedic prosthesis and/or a bone of the patient. The controller is configured to determine a position of the orthopedic prosthesis and/or the bone of the patient based on the data signals.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to collect neuro data from an organ, such as a brain. Spikes may be detected using raw neuro data collected from the organ. The spikes may be sorted. Underlying neuronal firing rates may be estimated using the sorted spikes. The neuronal firing rates may be transmitted outside the organ for real time decoding.

Abstract: A pre-assembled orthopaedic implant adapted for improved gas sterilization. The implant includes a first component adapted for assembly with a second component such that a mating surface of the first component is in close proximity with a mating surface of the second component. At least one gas conduit associated with the mating surface of the first component facilitates a sterilizing gas to penetrate into and dissipate from the interface defined by the mating surfaces.

Abstract: A composite stent and a method for making the same are provided.

Abstract: An artificial body part system includes an artificial body part and a bio-medical unit. The artificial body part includes a bio-medical mounting mechanism. The bio-medical unit is mechanically associated with the artificial body part based on the bio-medical mounting mechanism. The bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a wireless communication module, and a functional module. The power harvesting module is operable to generate a supply voltage from a wireless source. The wireless communication module is operable to wirelessly communicate inbound data and outbound data. The functional module is operable to perform at least one function regarding the artificial body part, wherein the functional module performs the at least one function in response to the inbound data or to generate the outbound data.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide a conduit device including an attaching device configured for defining a helical pathway through a tissue wall and complementary ring in cooperation for securing the device within an aperture defined in the tissue wall. Some embodiments of the present invention further provide a system for implanting a conduit device in a tissue wall. More specifically, some embodiments provide a system including a coring device for defining an aperture in a tissue by removing and retaining a tissue core and securely implanting a conduit device therein so as to provide fluid communication between a first and second surface of the tissue wall via the conduit device.

Abstract: A prosthetic limb has an outer surface that is a mirror image of an intact limb. The intact limb is scanned and the surface data is manipulated to create a virtual mirror image. The end of the amputated limb is also scanned to obtain socket data. A virtual limb is designed using a computer program based upon the mirror image and end of the amputated limb data. The computer program is also used to design a removable fairing that provides color and texture to the prosthetic limb.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for determining a position of an orthopaedic prosthesis includes a patient support platform, a sensor array coupled to the patient support platform, and a controller electrically coupled to the sensor array. The sensor array is configured to generate data signals in response to an output signal of a signal source(s) coupled to the orthopaedic prosthesis and/or a bone of the patient. The controller is configured to determine a position of the orthopaedic prosthesis and/or the bone of the patient based on the data signals.

Abstract: The tactile feedback device of the preferred embodiments includes at least one skin contact pad; at least one actuator designed to move the at least one skin contact pad and attached to the at least one skin contact pad in a manner suitable to allow the actuator to move the at least one skin contact pad; a processor coupled to the actuator that executes a control logic and functions to control the movements of the at least one actuator; the control logic functions to determine the motions of the at least one actuator and is designed to move the at least one actuator in a manner that stretches the skin of the user. The tactile feedback device of the preferred embodiments has been designed to provide feedback to a user in a way that provides the user with information regarding a task that they are performing. The tactile feedback device of the preferred embodiments, however, may be used for any suitable purpose.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for fitting a person with a maternity garment includes one or more prosthetic devices. Each prosthetic device simulates a belly enlarged by a corresponding stage of pregnancy, to be worn by a person while wearing the maternity garment to simulate the fit and appearance of the maternity garment being worn by a pregnant person.

Abstract: A valve holder assembly having a main valve holder and a detachable secondary valve holder for positioning a heart valve prosthesis.

Abstract: The present invention relates, in general, to tissue decellularization and, in particular to a method of treating tissues, for example, heart valves, tendons and ligaments, so as to render them acellular and thereby limit mineralization and/or immunoreactivity upon implementation in vivo.

Abstract: A bioartificial nucleus pulposus is adapted for replacing at least a portion of a natural nucleus pulposus in an intervertebral disc. The bioartificial nucleus pulposus includes an artificial support structure made from a biodegradable material. The support structure has a plurality of pores. A carrier material is contained in the pores of the support structure. A plurality of nucleus pulposus cells are carried by the carrier material. A bioartificial intervertebral disc contains the bioartificial nucleus pulposus.

Abstract: A material suitable for the reconstruction of an individual's tissue, particularly supportive tissue such as bone tissue, insertable into the tissue. The material is characterized by being composed of wood heat-treated within the temperature range of 100-220° C. in the presence of water vapor. The invention also relates the use of the wood.

Abstract: An object is provided, which has a portion to be in contact with a human's skin when used, and can suppress irritation of the human's skin. A skin-contact portion of the object to be in contact with the human's skin when used is coated with a carbon film. For example, the carbon-film-coated object is glasses having ear pieces of temples and node pads coated at least partially with carbon films having a function of suppressing skin irritation.

Abstract: A vascular graft device includes a semipermeable inner wall surrounding a passage. A nonpermeable outer wall surrounds the inner wall. A biological agent is disposed between the inner and outer walls for release through the inner wall.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the size of lips. The apparatus is a clear or flesh colored polymer strip with a strong moisture activated adhesive on one side. A user inserts the apparatus on the inside of their lip with an attached applicator. Once in proper position, the user simply pulls the applicator away. When in place the lip enhancer maintains a stretch in the inner lip tissue, causing more of the lip to be exposed externally, thus making the lip appear noticeably larger. Users may talk, eat, and drink while using the lip enhancer.

Abstract: The present invention is a synthetic, biocompatible, bioabsorbable, porous foam tissue scaffolds possessing physicochemical properties suitable for use in the repair and regeneration of dermal tissue and to methods of preparing the foam scaffold.

Abstract: A golf prosthesis assisting an upper extremity amputee to swing a golf club. In one embodiment, the prosthesis comprises first and second prosthetic sockets in which the amputee's limbs are received. An extension pylon extends from the first prosthetic socket towards the golf club. The second prosthetic socket is attached to the extension pylon, thereby assisting the amputee in keeping shoulders, back and hips in proper alignment during back swing and return swing. There is also a more complete transfer of energy into the swing from the shoulders, back and legs. A wrist terminal device connects the extension pylon to the golf club. The wrist terminal device emulates cocking and release of the wrists during a conventional golf swing. The wrist terminal device provides a club holder firmly holding the golf club, and a rotary joint advantageously restrained from rotation in all but a preselected plane.

Abstract: A method for chemical fixation of tissues by exposing the tissue to a chemical fixative agent, under oxidative conditions. The chemical fixative agents useable in this method include aldehydes (e.g., formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, dialdehyde starch), isocyanates (e.g., hexamethylene diisocyanate) and certain polyepoxy compounds (e.g., DENACOL). The oxidative conditions may be provided by heating of a chemical fixative solution that contains the crosslinking agent, in the presence of room air or oxygen. Alternatively, the oxidative conditions may be provided by adding one or more oxidizing chemicals (e.g., hydrogen peroxide or other peroxides, sodium periodate or other periodates, diisocyanates, halogens, n-bromosuccinimide or other halogenated compounds, permanganates, ozone, chromic acid, sulfuryl chloride, sulfoxides, selenoxides, etc.) to the chemical fixative solution. Alternatively, the oxidative conditions may be provided by irradiation (e.g.

Abstract: A compliant artificial lung for extrapulmonary gas transfer comprises a membrane oxygenator adapted to be disposed within a flexible housing or bladder. The bladder defines a hollow chamber for receiving blood introduced via a blood inlet nozzle. The membrane oxygenator comprises a bundle of microporous or non-porous, hollow fibers adapted to transport an oxygen-rich gas. Venous (unoxygenated) blood is introduced into the bladder through the blood inlet nozzle and flows through spaces between (and across the surfaces of) the various fibers comprising the fiber bundle. The surface contact between the venous blood and the microporous fibers of the bundle facilitates the gas-exchanging function of transporting oxygen to the blood while removing carbon dioxide. This aids in transforming venous blood into arterial blood.

Abstract: The resorption of a medical implant can be controlled with the use of particles embedded in a resorbable bulk material forming the implant or portion thereof. The implant can be removed from a body of a mammal by natural biological mechanisms after use. The resorption of the implant can involve swelling and/or hydrolyzing of the particles within the implant upon contact with a body fluid such that porosity and flow of fluid within the bulk material of the implant is increased. Resorption of the implant may also involve the use of particles with magnetic properties embedded within the implant such that an applied magnetic field causes the particles to vibrate within the bulk material thereby increasing the porosity and thus the flow of fluid, hence facilitating resorption of the implant. The resorption rate of the implant can be controlled by modulating swelling, hydrolysis, or movement of the embedded particles.

Abstract: A device for releasably holding and positioning a heart valve prosthesis includes a handle having a first end, a second end and a super elastic shaft interconnecting the first and second ends. A connector is positioned at the second end of the handle and includes a plug portion having a pair of raised members and diametrically opposed guide slots. A low profile pusher-rotator is releasably engaged with the plug portion and includes diametrically opposed guide tabs engaged with the guide slots. A manually flexible release portion of the pusher-rotator includes a pair of engagement members engaged in a snap fit with the raised members. The release portion can be manually distorted to release the engagement members and the raised members for separation of the handle and the pusher-rotator.

Abstract: A method of creating a simulated aorta patterned from a natural aorta and having a preselected amount of compliance is disclosed. The dimensions of a simulated aortic root patterned according to the dimensions of a natural aorta are first selected and a mold provided. The amount of circumferential compliance desired in the simulated aorta is then selected, based on natural circumferential compliancies. A material such as silicone rubber formed of an elastomer and a filler is used to form the aorta, the durometer of the material being varied by varying the relative amount of the components, to provide the selected amount of circumferential compliance in a simulated aorta having the selected dimensions. The aorta is then formed curing the material in the mold for about 24 hours. Groups of simulated aortas so produced, sometimes having different sizes and/or compliancies are also disclosed. A method of testing non-stented valves using the aortas is included.

Abstract: A driving system using an intercalation substance as a novel mechanochemical system includes an actuator using the intercalation substance and driven by exchange of solutions or by changing concentration of a solution, and a solution supplier that supplies the actuator with the driving solution or solutions. The actuator is composed of one or more cylindrical or fiber-shaped elements each extending in the expanding and contracting direction of the intercalation substance, or one or more film-shaped or plate-shaped elements each having a major surface extending vertically of the expanding and contracting direction of the intercalation substance. The driving system is used as artificial muscle, for example.

Abstract: The present invention provides a synthetic, poorly-crystalline apatitic (PCA) calcium phosphate material seeded with cells. Preferably, the cells are tissue-forming or tissue-degrading cells. The compositions provided by the present invention are useful for a variety of applications, including in vivo and in vitro tissue growth (preferably bone or cartilage), osseous augmentation, and methods of diagnosing disease states by assaying tissue-forming potential of cells isolated from a host. The invention also provides in vitro cell culture systems and cell encapsulation matrices.

Abstract: A method of repairing a defect in tissue includes the steps of placing a prosthetic over a tissue defect and against surrounding tissue. The prosthetic is then embedded into the surrounding tissue by an application of pressure and ultrasonic energy to the prosthetic and the surrounding tissue on at least one location on the prosthetic and surrounding tissue. The embedded prosthetic is then welded into surrounding tissue by an application of pressure and Radio Frequency energy on the same location.

Abstract: An IOL implantable in an eye comprising an optic having an optical portion for directing light toward the retina of the eye and a cell barrier portion for inhibiting cell growth from the eye in front of or in back of the optical portion. The cell barrier portion circumscribes the optical portion, is incapable of focusing light on the retina and includes an irregularly configured structure, for example, irregular grooves. At least one elongated fixation member is coupled to the optic for use in fixing the optic in the eye.

Abstract: A medical device is described which has on a surface thereof a bio-compatible coating. This bio-compatible coating is formed from a composition which includes an aqueous emulsion or dispersion of a polycarbonate-polyurethane composition containing one or more internal emulsifying agents.