Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to pattern identification and pattern recognition. In some particular implementations, the invention provides a flexible pattern recognition platform including pattern recognition engines that can be dynamically adjusted to implement specific pattern recognition configurations for individual pattern recognition applications. In some implementations, the present invention also provides for a partition configuration where knowledge elements can be grouped and pattern recognition operations can be individually configured and arranged to allow for multilevel pattern recognition schemes.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to pattern identification and pattern recognition. In some particular implementations, the invention provides a flexible pattern recognition platform including pattern recognition engines that can be dynamically adjusted to implement specific pattern recognition configurations for individual pattern recognition applications. In some implementations, the present invention also provides for a partition configuration where knowledge elements can be grouped and pattern recognition operations can be individually configured and arranged to allow for multi-level pattern recognition schemes.

Abstract: A tissue retractor includes a body having proximal and distal ends. The retractor also includes a retraction device having a head connected to the distal end of the body and defining two opposing openings, a connector movably disposed in the body, and two flexible needles of a shape memory material having a memory shape. The needles are fixedly connected to the connector for traveling through a respective one of the openings. The memory shape of the needles includes a portion with an arcuate shape. A one-handed actuation device is connected to the proximal end of the body and is operatively connected to the connector through the body. Upon actuation of the actuation device, the connector can be moved to selectively extend the needles out of the head and withdraw the needles into the head. Methods for using the tissue retractor, in particular for the treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, are also provided.

Abstract: A method of performing a treatment for gastroesophagheal reflux disease (GERD) includes providing a distal end of a shaft of a medical instrument with a proximally facing end effector having a laterally offset clevis defining a shaft-clevis plane and opposing mutually rotatable jaws proximally directed and laterally displaced relative to a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The jaws hold parts of a two-part fastener, respectively, and are offset and separated from the shaft. Significantly, the jaws operate in a plane at an angle to the shaft-clevis plane. The shaft is inserted with the proximally facing end effector through the esophagus in a first direction. The shaft is retracted in a second direction substantially opposite the first. The end effector contacts a stomach wall at a location near the esophagus and the stomach wall is manipulated with the end effector.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to pattern identification and pattern recognition. In some particular implementations, the invention provides a flexible pattern recognition platform including pattern recognition engines that can be dynamically adjusted to implement specific pattern recognition configurations for individual pattern recognition applications. In some implementations, the present invention also provides for a partition configuration where knowledge elements can be grouped and pattern recognition operations can be individually configured and arranged to allow for multilevel pattern recognition schemes.

Abstract: A kit is provided for gathering biological specimens. The kit generally comprises a self-contained specimen gathering device including a protective housing and a preservation solution. Also provided is a method of gathering specimens and a holistic method of deterring crime using the kit.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to pattern identification and pattern recognition. In some particular implementations, the invention provides a flexible pattern recognition platform including pattern recognition engines that can be dynamically adjusted to implement specific pattern recognition configurations for individual pattern recognition applications. In some implementations, the present invention also provides for a partition configuration where knowledge elements can be grouped and pattern recognition operations can be individually configured and arranged to allow for multi-level pattern recognition schemes.

Abstract: An apparatus for the transoral invagination and fundoplication of the stomach to the esophagus includes a clip applier having sharp toothed jaws for grasping and damaging the fundus prior to applying the clip. The clip applier has an overall diameter of less than 7 mm. The clip applier jaws are coupled to a pull wire via a linkage which increases the mechanical advantage and thus permits greater grasping force. A plurality of clip designs are also provided.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector having a clevis and first and second jaws mutually rotatable between open and closed positions. The jaws are proximally directed and laterally displaced relative to a longitudinal axis of a control shaft of the instrument. The jaws hold first and second parts of a fastener, respectively. The first part includes a base having upstanding tissue piercing posts, and the second part includes another base defining apertures for receiving the posts, as well as a portion movable relative to the second base. When the upstanding posts are inserted into the apertures, the movable portion can be moved into a second configuration to lock the parts of the fastener together. The instrument is adapted to move the second part into the second configuration. A method for using the apparatus and fastener are also provided.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector having a clevis and first and second jaws mutually rotatable between open and closed positions. The jaws are proximally directed and laterally displaced relative to a longitudinal axis of a control shaft of the instrument. The jaws hold first and second parts of a fastener, respectively. The first part includes a base having upstanding tissue piercing posts, and the second part includes another base defining apertures for receiving the posts, as well as a portion movable relative to the second base. When the upstanding posts are inserted into the apertures, the movable portion can be moved into a second configuration to lock the parts of the fastener together. The instrument is adapted to move the second part into the second configuration. A method for using the apparatus and fastener are also provided.

Abstract: A system is provided for use with an automotive vehicle having a normally disabled ignition system. The system includes a reader, such as a fingerprint reader or retina reader, to identify the driver. The output from the reader is compared to corresponding physiological data stored in memory to determine if the driver is authorized to operate the vehicle. Optionally, a timer is employed to permit operation of the vehicle only during preset prescribed time periods.