Abstract: The present invention is directed to holders for a sensor. The holders apply pressure to the sensor to prevent a venous blood signal without dampening the arterial blood signal and are optically opaque to shield ambient light from reaching the sensor.

Abstract: A signal processing technique for estimating the frequency of a pulsatile signal (including but not limited to pulse oximetry signals) is disclosed. Each of the functions contained within a pre-selected set of functions is compared to the input signal at many different time-shifts, and the function/time-shift combination that best matches the input signal is selected. The frequency of the best-matching function is then used as the best estimate of the frequency of the input signal. Optionally, once a function has been selected, the rising portion of the selected function can be correlated in time to the rising portion of the input signal. Improved results can then be obtained by basing the oxygen saturation level calculations on samples taken from the rising portion of the input signal.

Abstract: A signal processing technique for estimating the frequency of a pulsatile signal (including but not limited to pulse oximetry signals) is disclosed. Each of the functions contained within a pre-selected set of functions is compared to the input signal at many different time-shifts, and the function/time-shift combination that best matches the input signal is selected. The frequency of the best-matching function is then used as the best estimate of the frequency of the input signal. Optionally, once a function has been selected, the rising portion of the selected function can be correlated in time to the rising portion of the input signal. Improved results can then be obtained by basing the oxygen saturation level calculations on samples taken from the rising portion of the input signal.

Abstract: A method for processing a pulsatile signal of light reflected from a living subject can include the step of activating a light source to transmit light to the living subject during an accumulation time. The method can include the step of detecting at least one sample of the light reflected from the living subject using a detector unit and determining if the sample(s) of light approaches a saturation level of the detector unit. The method can include the step of adjusting the accumulation time to prevent saturation of the detector unit if it has been determined that the at least one sample of light has approached a saturation level of the detector unit.

Abstract: The current invention provides an endotracheal tube fabricated with an array of electrodes disposed on an inflatable cuff on the tube. The array of electrodes includes multiple sense electrodes and a current electrode. The array of electrodes on the inflatable cuff is applied using a positive displacement dispensing system, such as a MicroPen®. A ground electrode is disposed on the tube approximately midway between the inflatable cuff and the midpoint of the endotracheal tube. The endotracheal tube is partially inserted into a mammalian subject's airway such that when the inflatable cuff is inflated, thereby fixing the tube in position, the array of electrodes is brought into close contact with the tracheal mucosa in relative proximity to the aorta. The endotracheal tube is useful in the measurement of cardiac parameters such as cardiac output.

Abstract: Disclosed is a brachytherapy seed deployment system for use in any of a variety of medical procedures such as radiation treatment of the prostate gland. The system includes at least two seeds secured together by a filament, which may be rigid or flexible. Also provided are methods of assembling the seeds and filaments, and methods of treating cancerous tissue using the seeds and filaments.

Abstract: A holder for a sensor includes a body having a top wall and a side portion extending away from the top wall. The sensor is adapted to sense a parameter of an item. The top wall and the side portion of the body form an interior cavity. A flange is coupled to and extends away from an edge of the side portion. A pressure application portion is coupled to a surface of the interior cavity of the body and is adapted to apply force to the sensor when the holder is coupled to the surface of the item.

Abstract: A holder for a sensor includes a body having a top wall and a side portion extending away from the top wall. The sensor is adapted to sense a parameter of an item. The top wall and the side portion of the body form an interior cavity. A flange is coupled to and extends away from an edge of the side portion. A pressure application portion is coupled to a surface of the interior cavity of the body and is adapted to apply force to the sensor when the holder is coupled to the surface of the item.

Abstract: Disclosed is a brachytherapy seed deployment system for use in any of a variety of medical procedures such as radiation treatment of the prostate gland. In one embodiment, the system includes a number of brachytherapy seed deployment needles, each preloaded with brachytherapy seeds in patterns and activities predetermined for a unique patient. The seeds are contained in transparent tubular sleeves, thereby allowing direct visualization of the brachytherapy seeds and spacers, so that the seed pattern may be inspected at the clinical site. A releasable retainer prevents accidental brachytherapy seed loss. The system additionally includes shipping containers, separately accessible calibration seeds and a display stand for use at the clinical site. Methods are also disclosed. In another embodiment, the system includes at least two seeds secured together by a filament. The filament may be rigid or flexible.