Abstract: Ultrasound-guided needle procedures require skills that are challenging to master, especially considering the need to manipulate 3-D structures while observing 2-D images (or even 3-D images). A pre-clinical assessment and training apparatus, methods, and systems are described herein. Targeting tasks require participants to contact target models designed to test various skills. Performance is compared between those with experience in ultrasound-guided medical procedures and those without experience, using at least one targeting task likely to be beneficial for assessment.

Abstract: Ultrasound-guided needle procedures require skills that are challenging to master, especially considering the need to manipulate 3-D structures while observing 2-D images (or even 3-D images). A pre-clinical assessment and training apparatus, methods, and systems are described herein. Targeting tasks require participants to contact target models designed to test various skills. Performance is compared between those with experience in ultrasound-guided medical procedures and those without experience, using at least one targeting task likely to be beneficial for assessment.

Abstract: Physiology simulation garments, systems including physiology simulation garments, and methods of using the same are described herein.

Abstract: This document relates to methods and materials involved in identifying, predicting, and treating pre-eclampsia or a cardiovascular disease (e.g., atherosclerosis) in mammals. For example, methods and materials involved in using serum levels of HtrA polypeptides to identify pre-eclampsia or a cardiovascular disease, using HTRA polymorphisms to predict pre-eclampsia or a cardiovascular disease, and using HtrA antibodies to treat pre-eclampsia or a cardiovascular disease in mammals (e.g., humans) are provided.

Abstract: A fetal heart rate monitoring system includes an ultrasonic transducer for transmitting a signal to a patient and for receiving a reflected heart beat monitoring signal. A monitoring system coupled to the ultrasonic transducer processes the heart beat monitoring signal and produces heart beat information representative of the monitored heart rate. A mechanical or electronic steering system coupled to the ultrasonic transducer controls the location of the signal transmitted to the patent and/or the location of the received heart beat monitoring signal. A control system coupled to the monitor and steering system controls the steering system as a function of the heart beat monitoring signal to optimize the quality of the heart beat information in the received heart beat monitoring signals.