Abstract: There is provided a method for growing human intervertebral cells. Disc tissue is surgically removed from a normal disc of a patient, the cells expanded by feeding with a cell stimulant such as a growth factor, or a cytokine or a bioactive agent to form monolayer primary cell cultures on a plastic mesh such as a nylon mesh. In the case of a growth factor, fetal bovine serum is preferred as it improves cell proliferation and production of appropriate extracellular matrix components. In another aspect of this invention, the monolayer primary cell cultures are seeded in alginate or agarose and fed again with the cell stimulant until three-dimensional cell cultures are formed. The cells are recovered from the alginate or agarose or from monolayer cultures. Re-implantation is carried out using bioresorbable carriers or cell suspensions.

Abstract: The invention involves a device and method for ascertaining the functioning of the respiratory system and determining whether a pulmonary embolism is present. The device comprises an apparatus containing sensors for measuring the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations as well as the volume of air inhaled and exhaled by a patient. From this data, a processor computes the ratio of carbon dioxide to oxygen for the volume of expired air and displays the results on a screen. By comparing the results to predetermined normal values, an accurate determination can be made regarding the presence of a pulmonary embolism.

Abstract: Malignant melanoma cells spontaneously generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that promote constitutive activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB). Although antioxidants and inhibitors of NAD(P)H oxidases significantly reduce constitutive NF-kB activation and suppress cell proliferation, the nature of the enzyme responsible for ROS production in melanoma cells has not been determined. To address this issue, we now have characterized the source of ROS production in melanoma cells. ROS are generated by isolated, cytosol-free melanoma plasma membranes, with inhibition by NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitors. The p22phox, gp91phox and p67phox components of the human phagocyte NAD(P)H oxidase, and the 91phox homolog NOX4 were demon-strated in melanomas by RT-PCR and sequencing, and protein product for both p22phox and gp91phox were detected in cell membranes by immunoassay. Normal human epidermal melanocytes expressed only p22phox and NOX4.

Abstract: A method for determining whether a subject has Gram negative bacterial pneumonia based on the presence of lipopolysaccharide in exhaled breath condensate collected from the subject. The collection devices utilized to collect exhaled breath condensate from both spontaneously breathing and mechanically ventilated subjects and the devices utilized to determine whether lipopolysaccharide is present in the collected exhaled breath condensate.

Abstract: A method for diagnosing and monitoring pulmonary hypertension using free hemoglobin, as well as surrogates for free hemoglobin, as markers for pulmonary hypertension. Bodily fluids, such as blood, serum, plasma, urine and/or breathe condensate may be collected and analyzed to determine the concentration of free hemoglobin or surrogates of free hemoglobin. The concentration indicates the presence or absence of pulmonary hypertension.

Abstract: The invention is a transvaginal ultrasound probe having an attached echogenic needle that is useful in the treatment of uterine fibroids. The echogenic needle has an echogenic surface near its tip that allows the physician to visualize its location using ultrasound imaging. In one embodiment, the needle has an active electrode at its distal end. The active electrode supplies radio frequency energy to a fibroids causing necrosis of the targeted fibroid or by destroying the fibroid's vascular supply. The radio frequency needle preferably has a safety device that shuts-off energy if the needle punctures the uterine wall. In a second embodiment, the needle has a cryogen supply tube and cryogen supply. This embodiment destroys fibroid tissue by freezing it or its vascular supply when the tissue comes in contact with the needle's frozen distal end. The invention further includes the method of using the ultrasound probe with the attached needle.

Abstract: The invention involves a device and method for ascertaining the functioning of the respiratory system and determining whether a pulmonary embolism is present. The device comprises an apparatus containing sensors which measure the amount of a particular gas expired from a patient's lungs, including a non-ambient gas which is previously provided to the patent. From this data, a processor computes the concentration of expired gas as a function of expired volume and displays the results on a screen. By comparing the results to predetermined values from afflicted and healthy patient populations, an accurate determination can be made regarding the presence of a pulmonary embolism.

Abstract: The present invention provides an erythema meter comprising a light guide that carries light of two specific wavelengths (probing and reference) at two distinct frequencies that are generated and modulated by a either a single or multiple source(s), a photodetector mounted in the tip of the guide that receives light reflected from the surface being examined, and circuitry electrically coupled to the guide for processing the light data, and determining the level of erythema present on the examined surface. The probing and reference wavelengths are delivered in sinusoidal or amplitude modulated fashion, thereby permitting electronic filtering of the received data. A calculating circuit determines the quotient of the two wavelengths after having been reflected off of a surface, such as mucosal or dermal surfaces, which is representative of the severity of erythema present in the surface.

Abstract: This invention provides a sock containing a coating material such as a coloring agent or dye, applied to at least a portion of the interior surface of the sock for sensing pressure points on a patient's foot to which the sock is fitted. The sock is placed on the patient's foot to cover preferably the entire foot, but at least the bottom portion thereof. The sock is removed after being worn for a period of time, and in those areas of the foot susceptible to pressure points, the coating material transfers from the interior of the sock and adheres to the foot in those points. The present invention is particularly applicable to a person having diabetic neuropathic feet wherein portions of the foot may be insensitive to pressure and therefore must be protected against pressure sores.

Abstract: A pelvic splint for immobilizing and maintaining the annular integrity of the pelvis in the event of a pelvic ring fracture. The pelvic splint extends from about 5-10 cm above the iliac crest down to about the middle third of the thighs and substantially encircles the pelvis of the victim. The splint is then secured about the pelvis of the victim with two or more adjustable straps. The splint comprises a flexible casing having at least one pliable padding layer disposed therein and a plurality of flexible members individually disposed in pockets spaced apart about the casing. Once tightly secured around the pelvis by the adjustable straps, the splint conforms to the contours of the victim's pelvic area and stabilizes the pelvis by preventing lateral movement and constraining the pelvis in such a manner to preserve the annular integrity thereof. An associated method of stabilizing a pelvis is also disclosed.

Abstract: Dithiocarbamate, particularly tetraethylthiuram disulfide, and thiocarbamate anions strongly inhibit the growth of cancer cells of a variety of cell types. Such inhibitory effect is enhanced by heavy metal ions such as copper ions, cytokines and ceruloplasmin. A method is presented for using tetraethylthiuram disulfide to reduce tumor growth, and to potentiate the effect of other anticancer agents.

Abstract: A diagnosis method for respiratory disease based on the separation of the expired airway phase in an exhaled breath from the alveolar phase, and a device to accomplish the method. The device includes a cartridge assembly and a disposable condensing chamber carried in a substantially enclosed housing. The cartridge assembly includes a disposable cartridge and a reusable control system that monitors a characteristic of gas passing through the cartridge to determine when to divert the exhaled breath to an exhaust outlet and when to divert the exhaled breath to the condensing chamber. The characteristic is selected as being representative of the transition from the expired airway phase to the alveolar phase. Also included are a refrigeration system, an auxiliary monitoring system for determining when a sufficient volume of gas has been produced, and a built-in analyzer.

Abstract: The invention is a transvaginal ultrasound probe having an attached echogenic needle that is useful in the treatment of uterine fibroids. The echogenic needle has an echogenic surface near its tip that allows the physician to visualize its location using ultrasound imaging. In one embodiment, the needle has an active electrode at its distal end. The active electrode supplies radio frequency energy to a fibroids causing necrosis of the targeted fibroid or by destroying the fibroid's vascular supply. The radio frequency needle preferably has a safety device that shuts-off energy if the needle punctures the uterine wall. In a second embodiment, the needle has a cryogen supply tube and cryogen supply. This embodiment destroys fibroid tissue by freezing it or its vascular supply when the tissue comes in contact with the needle's frozen distal end. The invention further includes the method of using the ultrasound probe with the attached needle.

Abstract: Dithiocarbamate, particularly tetraethylthiuram disulfide, and thiocarbamate anions strongly inhibit the growth of cancer cells of a variety of cell types. Such inhibitory effect is enhanced by heavy metal ions such as copper ions, cytokines and ceruloplasmin. A method is presented for using tetraethylthiuram disulfide to reduce tumor growth, and to potentiate the effect of other anticancer agents.

Abstract: There is provided a method for inhibiting ATF/CREB and cancer cell growth using disulfiram, administered in combination with heavy metals. It was found that disulfiram disrupts transcription factor DNA binding by forming mixed disulfides with thiols within the DNA-binding region, and that this process is facilitated by metal ions. Disulfiram administered to melanoma cells in combination with copper (II) or zinc(II) decreased expression of cyclin A, reduced proliferation in vitro, and inhibited growth of melanoma cells. The combination of oral zinc gluconate and disulfiram at currently approved doses for alcoholism stabilized tumor growth in two of three patients with Stage IV metastatic melanoma, with 12 and 17 month survivals, respectively, to date, and produced a >50% reduction in hepatic metastases in one individual.

Abstract: A method of reconstructing tissue is provided. The method includes implanting an absorbable tissue expander having a fluid-tight or semipermeable envelope and having a bio-absorbable biocompatible shell defining a chamber. The envelope is inflatable upon infusion of a fluid into the chamber and deflatable upon removal of the fluid from the chamber. The tissue expander also has an injection port for the controlled inflation and deflation of the envelope after the device is implanted in a tissue. The method also may include a plurality of envelopes.

Abstract: Dithiocarbamate, particularly tetraethylthiuram disulfide, and thiocarbamate anions strongly inhibit the growth of cancer cells of a variety of cell types. Such inhibitory effect is enhanced by heavy metal ions such as copper ions, cytokines and ceruloplasmin. A method is presented for using tetraethylthiuram disulfide to reduce tumor growth, and to potentiate the effect of other anticancer agents.

Abstract: Dithiocarbamate, particularly tetraethylthiuram disulfide strongly inhibits the growth of cancer cells of a variety of cell types. Such inhibitory effect is enhanced by heavy metal ions such as copper ions, cytokines and ceruloplasmin. A method is presented for using tetraethylthiuram disulfide to reduce tumor growth, and to potentiate the effect of other anticancer agents.

Abstract: The invention involves a device and method for ascertaining the functioning of the respiratory system and determining whether a pulmonary embolism is present. The device comprises an apparatus containing sensors for measuring the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations as well as the volume of air inhaled and exhaled by a patient. From this data, a processor computes the ratio of carbon dioxide to oxygen for the volume of expired air and displays the results on a screen. By comparing the results to predetermined normal values, an accurate determination can be made regarding the presence of a pulmonary embolism.

Abstract: A pelvic splint for immobilizing and maintaining the annular integrity of the pelvis in the event of a pelvic ring fracture. The pelvic splint extends from about 5-10 cm above the iliac crest down to about the middle third of the thighs and substantially encircles the pelvis of the victim. The splint is then secured about the pelvis of the victim with two or more adjustable straps. The splint comprises a flexible casing having at least one pliable padding layer disposed therein and a plurality of flexible members individually disposed in pockets spaced apart about the casing. Once tightly secured around the pelvis by the adjustable straps, the splint conforms to the contours of the victim's pelvic area and stabilizes the pelvis by preventing lateral movement and constraining the pelvis in such a manner to preserve the annular integrity thereof. An associated method of stabilizing a pelvis is also disclosed.