Abstract: A reciprocating platform assembly for oscillating a subject supporting platform in a back and forth, headward to footward motion includes a platform mounted on displacement modules that are mounted to a frame. The displacement modules are signally connected to a processor that controls movement of the platform through operation of the displacement modules. The platform may be oscillated to soothe a subject on the platform to hasten a sleeping state of the subject or to minimize or prevent the occurrence of apneas in the subject. The platform may also be oscillated to assist or support ventilation and/or for cardiopulmonary/cardiac support of the subject. The platform is additionally useful in conjunction with a physiological monitor to rapidly shake the subject when an adverse event occurs to wake the subject and terminate the adverse event. The monitor may also be employed as a trigger for assisting or supporting ventilation and cardiac/cardiopulmonary support.

Abstract: A non-invasive physiologic signs monitoring device includes a garment with electrocardiogram electrodes and various inductive plethysmographic sensors sewn, embroidered, embedded, or otherwise attached to the garment with an adhesive. The garment is in the form of a shirt. When the garment is fitted over the torso of the patient to be monitored, the electrodes and sensors generate signals in response to the physiologic signs of the patient. The signals are transmitted to a recording/alarm device where they are monitored for adverse conditions and logged. When an adverse condition or other preprogrammed condition occurs, a message is communicated to the patient by either an audio message or a display. The recording/alarm unit is also connectable to a remote receiving unit for monitoring by a health care professional or other machine.

Abstract: A method for measuring respiratory drive includes determining a peak inspiratory flow and a peak inspiratory acceleration from a breath waveform derived from rib cage motion and abdominal motion using a plethysmograph or other external respiratory measuring device. The respiratory drive is ascertainable even during complete blockage of the respiratory system. The peak inspiratory drive derived using the inventive method is used to initiate inspiration in a mechanical ventilator and for determining an index describing a shape of the waveform for controlling a continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) device.

Abstract: A system for non-invasively determining the oxygenation state of tissue located beneath the surface of the skin, such as muscle tissue, of an exercising person or other subject is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, a user-wearable detector array and related circuitry which use near-infrared radiation to collect oxygenation data are provided. The apparatus also includes displays for displaying information regarding the oxygenation state in several ways. In one embodiment a user wearable wristband indicator connected to the detector array which is located at another location, such as on the leg, and provides information directly to the user. In another embodiment, a telemetry device allows remote monitoring of a subject during an activity, the oxygenation information being displayed to a coach or other observer. A separate, user-wearable battery pack, which is preferably designed to provide power for the duration of the activity being monitored, is also provided.

Abstract: A non-invasive method and apparatus for monitoring individual lung function is disclosed. A transducer (12, 14) is disposed on the torso above the lung to be monitored, the transducer producing a signal corresponding to movement of the torso portion therebeneath which, in turn, corresponds to changes in the volume of the underlying lung. Regional lung volume changes may also be assessed by utilizing transducers positioned on the torso to encompass only a portion of the underlying lung.

Abstract: The present invention to provides methods and apparatus for studying photon migration using signal modulation techniques such as time, frequency and phase modulation. The photon migration data may then be converted, using the principles of time-resolved spectroscopy, to determine the concentration of an absorptive constituent in a scattering medium, such as the concentration of hemoglobin in a brain of other tissue. The methods and apparatus disclosed provide as a specific embodiment, a dual wavelength phase modulation system which allows the clinical application of the advantages of time resolved spectroscopy in an economical and commercially feasible embodiment.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring central venous pressure (CVP) is disclosed, along with an improved transducer (50) for measuring CVP in infants. Changes in CVP may also be monitored by employing the method and apparatus of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention to provides methods and apparatus for studying photon migration using signal modulation techniques such as time, frequency and phase modulation. The photon migration data may then be converted, using the principles of time-resolved spectroscopy, to determine the concentration of an absorptive constituent in a scattering medium, such as the concentration of hemoglobin in a brain of other tissue. The methods and apparatus of the present invention provide as a specific embodiment, a dual wavelength phase modulation system which allows the clinical application of time resolved spectroscopy in a commerically feasible embodiment.