Abstract: A cardiac sensor system includes implanted cardiac sensor assemblies and an external controller which receives information from the implanted sensors. The sensors permit direct measurement of a number of physiologic parameters. The external controller permits calculation of a variety of performance values based on the measured physiological parameters. Optionally, patient oxygen consumption can be measured externally and combined with the internally measured physiologic parameters in order to calculate a variety of unique performance values.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems for enhancing cardiac pacing generally provide for measuring at least one cardiac characteristic, calculating at least one cardiac performance parameter based on the measured characteristic(s), and adjusting at least one functional parameter of a cardiac pacing device. Devices may include at least one catheter (such as a multiplexed catheter with one or more sensors and/or actuators), at least one implant (such as a sensor implantable in a heart wall), or a combination of both. Various cardiac performance parameters and/or pacing device performance parameters may be weighted, and the parameters and their respective weights may be used to determine one or more adjustments to be made to the pacing device. In some instances, the adjustments are made automatically.

Abstract: Methods and systems of the present invention provide for measurement of various cardiac parameters. Methods generally involve causing a change in volume and/or pressure in a heart chamber, measuring the change, and calculating at least one cardiac parameter based on the change. Systems typically include at least one actuator, at least one sensor, and a catheter or other device for positioning at least partially in a heart chamber. In some embodiments, the system may also include a controller, such as a computer or other processor, an external actuator, an external sensor, and/or an ECG device. Methods and systems of the invention may be used to more accurately diagnose cardiac conditions in order to make more informed treatment decisions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a low gloss coating composition having a 75° sheet gloss of 50% or less which is useful for improving the print quality of inks applied to the low gloss coating composition. The low gloss coating composition is particularly useful for increasing the difference in gloss, or delta gloss, between a substrate coated with the low gloss composition and ink applied to the low gloss coated substrate.