Abstract: An apparatus (22) for applying a therapeutic signal (31) to the scalp (32) of a subject (20) includes a first electrode (26) for massaging the scalp (32) and second electrode (30) in contact with the subject (20) and located remote from the first electrode (26). The therapeutic signal (31), passing between the first and second electrodes (26, 30) through the scalp (32), serves to loosen connective tissue and improve blood circulation in the scalp. The apparatus (22) includes digital waveform generators (54) for generating harmonically non-related resultant signals (96). The resultant signals (96) are combined to form the therapeutic signal (31) exhibiting a pseudorandom signal characteristic.

Abstract: An implantable cardiac rhythm/function management device that automatically determines whether or not a pacing stimulus to the ventricles results in capture by detecting propagated depolarizations at stimulating and non-stimulating electrodes. The device of the present invention is suitable for use in either a single or multiple electrode pacing/sensing configuration and may be utilized to verify either atrial or ventricular capture of a heart having either normal or abnormal intrinsic AV conduction.

Abstract: A cardiac rhythm management system provides ultrasound autocapture capability for determining whether a stimulation has evoked a desired response from the heart, and for adjusting an energy of the stimulation based on the observed response from the heart. A first ultrasound element is disposed on a lead in the heart. A second ultrasound element is disposed elsewhere in the heart or in the implanted device. An autocapture determination circuit determines whether motion of the heart chamber indicates a contraction in response to the stimulation, and adjusts the stimulation energy to provide only that energy which is needed to obtain capture. This saves energy, prolonging the life of the implanted device, minimizing the risk and expense to patient associated with early explantation and replacement of the implanted device.

Abstract: A catheter employs an inner guide with a pre-formed distal tip, an outer guide with a predetermined deflection location, and a proximal actuator. The inner guide can be longitudinally extended and axially rotated relative to the outer guide. The proximal actuator can adjustably change a bend angle of the predetermined deflection location. The catheter can be deployed with the inner guide retracted inside the distal end of the outer catheter. The extensible and rotatable inner catheter can be combined with the adjustable bend angle of the outer guide to provide an improved system for accessing and cannulating venous structures.

Abstract: A method for further reducing the load on a heart suffering (ventricular size maintenance) from congestive heart failure comprising the application of a subcardiac pump having inflow and outflow conduits configured to fluidly connect to non-primary vessels in such a manner as to reduce the load on and/or the size of the heart prior to applying a device intended to reduce the stress on a wall of the ailing heart.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is particularly directed to a process for the purification of DNA, and is especially useful for the isolation of biologically active plasmid DNA. The process is initiated by binding the DNA to silicon carbide particles, either in the presence or absence of chaotropic agents. The bound DNA is subsequently eluted from the resin in low salt buffer or water. The resulting purified DNA is substantially free of proteins and is shown to be biologically active. The scope and diversity of the process is demonstrated here since this process can be used for the isolation of RNA and genomic DNA as well as the purification of PCR products and isolation of DNA from agarose gel slices.