Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to precise stereotactic implantation of an instrument (e.g., a recording electrode, a stimulating electrode, a biopsy instrument, a catheter, a delivery device, and the like) into a target area in a patient's brain. As such, one aspect of the present disclosure can relate to a stereotactic device that can be used to accomplish the precise implantation of the instrument. The stereotactic device can include a body to secure the stereotactic device to the patient's head. In some instances, the body can have a u-shape. The stereotactic device can also include a guide attached between sides of the body to move an instrument holder into place above a target area. The guide can be locked in position to lock the instrument holder in the place to facilitate injection of the instrument into the target area.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to precise stereotactic implantation of an instrument (e.g., a recording electrode, a stimulating electrode, a biopsy instrument, a catheter, a delivery device, and the like) into a target area in a patient's brain. As such, one aspect of the present disclosure can relate to a stereotactic device that can be used to accomplish the precise implantation of the instrument. The stereotactic device can include a body to secure the stereotactic device to the patient's head. In some instances, the body can have a u-shape. The stereotactic device can also include a guide attached between sides of the body to move an instrument holder into place above a target area. The guide can be locked in position to lock the instrument holder in the place to facilitate injection of the instrument into the target area.

Abstract: A system and method for stimulating a brain structure of a patient for treating a condition. A stimulating electrode is inserted into a brain structure of the patient. After inserting the stimulating electrode into a brain structure of the patient, the patient is prompted with a task. When the task is completed by the patient, the stimulating electrode is used to transmit a stimulating signal into the brain structure of the patient. In an alternative implementation, the patient's brain is monitored for the existence of a particular condition. When the condition is detected, the stimulating electrode is used to transmit a stimulating signal into the brain structure of the patient.

Abstract: A computerized system and method facilitates the collection, calculation, and analysis of supplier capacity data. Using portal technology, communications between the manufacturer and suppliers related to capacity data are facilitated. The system and method accommodate numerous supplier manufacturing processes and their unique configurations so that consistent “standard’ and “maximum” capacity values may be calculated. The portal supports data entry to quickly, efficiently, and accurately identify capacity constraints at the process and part number levels, create solutions, and monitor the implementation of solutions to increase capacity. Using dynamic calculation logic, fluctuating demand values for parts are considered in determining probable capacity values. The impact of various investments on production capacity may also be assessed. The manufacturer may further use capacity constraint data to adjust production to sales or market changes and to align production with capacity.

Abstract: A method for identifying neuronal spikes (extracellular action potentials) is described wherein measured microelectrode readings from tissue are reviewed to identify spikes (successive readings having prolonged rises and/or falls). The frequency of such spikes as a function of their amplitude assumes a bimodal distribution wherein higher amplitude spikes represent neuronal spikes (signal) and lower amplitude spikes represent noise, and thus the higher amplitude spikes can be assumed to be neuronal spikes. Neuronal spikes from the same neuron can then be assumed to have substantially the same waveform shape and period, with the only significant difference between them being the scaling of their amplitudes (i.e., the amplitudes of spikes from the same neuron tend to be proportionate at any given time along their period). Thus, by testing identified neuronal spikes for matching timing and for proportional amplitudes, the neuronal spikes may further be identified as coming from the same or different neurons.

Abstract: A straddle-type vehicle has configurations in which the engine is located more towards the rear of the vehicle and the fuel tank extends generally vertically beneath the steering member. A radiator may also be located at a rear portion of the vehicle, rearwardly of the engine. A front storage compartment s also provided in the front portion of the vehicle. The resulting vehicle has improved access and storage capabilities and also has a lower center of gravity. The engine may be a four stroke engine, which is more environmentally friendly than a two stroke engine. Because of the increased space requirements of a four stroke engine, a secondary portion of the engine is provided forward of the seat to define an uppermost portion that defines a bottom portion of an access area that the user uses to mount and dismount the vehicle.

Abstract: An ergonomic shifter mountable to a handlebar of a motor vehicle, the shifter comprising a housing mountable to the handlebar and a unitary shifter toggle switch movably connected to the housing, the unitary shifter toggle switch being movable from a neutral position to an upshift position and a downshift position. Preferably, the unitary shifter toggle switch is pivotally connected to the housing. Preferably, the shifter is mounted to the handlebar adjacent a gripping portion of the handlebar so that the driver can easily upshift or downshift the vehicle. Preferably, the unitary shifter toggle switch has a plurality of small protrusions for enhancing a driver's grip.