Abstract: A self-expanding stent is formed of a stent framework and retaining segments disposed about the framework. The retaining segments hold the stent in a partially or fully contracted state in a bodily vessel. The retaining segments are constructed to fail after a predetermined time or upon the application of a predetermined force. Upon failure of the segments, the stent expands in the bodily vessel.

Abstract: A sensor system for diagnosing dental conditions includes a sensor unit which is in contact with an oral fluid such as saliva or gas, and which is operative to provide detectable signals indicative of at least two of hydrogen ion concentration, hydroxyl ion concentration, calcium, phosphate, sulfur, sulfur containing compounds, nitrogen containing compounds, microbial metabolites, and microbes. The system includes a signal processor which is in communication with the sensor unit and which operates to provide a processed signal indicative of one or more dental conditions. The signal processor transmits the processed signal to a storage and display device which displays a user detectable diagnostic message indicative of a dental condition, or suggestive of a remedial action.

Abstract: A motion detection device for monitoring patient movement. The device includes a sensor adapted to generate a voltage from mechanical vibrations and a circuit in operable relationship with the voltage for generating an alarm upon detection of a predetermined signal. The circuit provides a fixed impedance to the sensor. A micro controller is used for analyzing the signal to select from first and second conditions by sensing activity within sequences of preselected time intervals. The first condition represents a medical condition and the second condition represents casual motion. A switch is used for setting a time interval and a total sampling time for the micro controller. An alarm signal generates an alarm upon detection by the microprocessor of a predetermined activity. The preferred sensor comprises a housing having an outer shell and a hollow spherical opening therein.