Abstract: An improved method and device for performing anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) to convert a ventricular tachycardia (VT) to normal sinus rhythm. Pairs of pacing/sensing electrodes are placed in or on each of the left and right ventricles. Each pair of electrodes is shorted together to produce unipolar electrodes that are used for ATP.

Abstract: An electrical immobilization weapon to incapacitate a target to improve the effective range of the device along with increasing safety to the target. The embodiments include a first and second arm rotating horizontally from the device, a first and second electrically conductive dart angled to improve electrically conductive dart spacing at differing distances, and a split bipolar waveform to reduce the cardiac membrane potential of the target.

Abstract: This invention relates to a non-contact coating method for producing a continuous coating and articles constructed therefrom. This invention further relates to a method for producing a textile material with a moisture-impermeable barrier layer and to a method for producing a moisture-absorbing article of hygiene which has such a barrier layer. This invention particularly relates to a textile material and hygienic disposable articles comprising a body fluid impermeable barrier layer produced from said coating method. Preferably, the thermoplastic composition used in the method for producing the barrier layer exhibits certain rheological characteristics.

Abstract: A method and system for treating an individual experiencing cardiac arrest using an automatic external defibrillator (AED) includes placing a first and a second electrode of the AED in electrical communication with an exterior surface of the individual. A need to apply a high voltage defibrillation signal to the individual is automatically determined. The method also includes automatically causing the AED to apply a medium voltage therapy (MVT) signal through the first and the second electrodes to the individual. The MVT signal is applied to induce a hemodynamic effect in the individual. Alternatively, or additionally, the MVT signal is applied to induce a respiratory effect in the individual. Optionally, the MVT signal is applied before determining the need to apply the defibrillation signal.

Abstract: An implantable, bipolar or multipolar pacing lead comprises a lead body having a proximal end and a distal end portion. A tip electrode is disposed at a distal extremity of the distal end portion of the lead body, the tip electrode being electrically coupled to a first terminal contact on a connector assembly attached to the proximal end of the lead body. The lead further comprises one or more ring electrodes positioned along the distal end portion of the lead body proximally of the tip electrode, with each ring electrode being electrically coupled to a terminal contact on the connector assembly and each ring electrode having distal and proximal ends. The electrical resistance of each ring electrode adjacent each of the ends is greater than that of the portion of the ring electrode between the ends.

Abstract: T-wave amplitude and QT interval are derived from patient cardiac signals. Then blood glucose levels are determined based on a combination of the T-wave amplitude and the QT interval. By using a combination of both T-wave-based and QT interval-based signals, blood glucose levels can be reliably detected throughout a wide range of blood glucose levels. Once the blood glucose level has been detected, the implanted device compares the blood glucose level against upper and lower acceptable bounds and appropriate warning signals are generated if the level falls outside the bounds. In one example, wherein an implantable insulin pump is additionally provided, the pump is controlled based on the detected blood glucose level to maintain glucose levels within an acceptable range. A calibration technique is also provided for determining patient-specific parameters for use in the detection of blood glucose levels.

Abstract: A phone for pets and pet owners is taught which allows the owner to call the house and “talk” to the pet. The owner can then see a video image of the pet in front of the pet phone to verify presence and happiness. The device can also present the owner's scent to the pet and deliver treats on remote command.

Abstract: The basic object of this invention is the use of light selective materials and fabrics to increase the utility of a garment or sports article. The invention is the novel idea that light selective materials and fabrics can radically improve the usefulness, pleasure, and appeal obtained from sportswear and other garments. Examples taught include life vests, ski vests, ski pants, ski helmet/hat, and sunglasses.

Abstract: The basic object of this invention is the use of light selective materials and fabrics to increase the utility of a garment or sports article. The invention is the novel idea that light selective materials and fabrics can radically improve the usefulness, pleasure, and appeal obtained from sportswear and other garments. Examples taught include life vests, ski vests, ski pants, ski helmet/hat, and sunglasses.

Abstract: An implantable cardiac device and method monitors a patient's body impedance so as to diagnose medical problems, such as fluid balance problems in congestive heart failure patients. The device monitors the patient's position and determines an appropriate time for collecting body impedance data when the patient is in repose. The device then obtains a series of measurements of thoracic impedance by transmitting a signal on at least one lead, which may be a standard pacemaker lead, and sensing a signal received at a different point. The series of measurements are combined to obtain desired representations of thoracic impedance. In an embodiment, impedance is represented by an extracellular water (ECW) resistance value and an intracellular water (ICW) resistance value determined using a Cole calculation method.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the electrical treatment of malignant tumors and neoplasms by applying a voltage to affected tissue. Devices and various adaptations therein are described for use in electrical therapy. In one embodiment, electrical therapy output is modified to deliver a duty cycle less than 100 percent.

Abstract: This present embodiment relates generally to the electrical treatment of malignant tumors and neoplasms by applying a voltage to affected tissue. Devices and various adaptations therein are described for use in electrical therapy. Additionally, various ambulatory devices are described which advantageously increase versatility of the electrical therapy system. The ambulatory devices may include an internal and external power source and/or a first and second power source. The ambulatory devices may also include communication means for communicating between various portions of the device.

Abstract: An electrical method and apparatus for stimulating cardiac cells causing contraction to force hemodynamic output during fibrillation, hemodynamically compromising tachycardia, or asystole. Forcing fields are applied to the heart to give cardiac output on an emergency basis until the arrhythmia ceases or other intervention takes place. The device is used as a stand alone external or internal device, or as a backup to an ICD, atrial defibrillator, or an anti-tachycardia pacemaker. The method and apparatus maintain some cardiac output and not necessarily defibrillation.

Abstract: An implantable cardiac stimulation device provides pacing stimulation therapy from within the left ventricle of a heart. The device includes a pulse generator adapted to be coupled to an implantable cardiac stimulation electrode and a power supply that maintains the stimulation electrode at a negative voltage. The electrode may be implanted within the left ventricle by feeding the electrode from the right ventricle through the right ventricular septum and into the left ventricle.

Abstract: Sunglasses with securement bows which are somewhat transmissive to ultraviolet light are taught which allow outdoor exposure without the sharp untanned lines normally seen on the side of the wearer's head. Eyeglasses with securement bows which are somewhat transmissive to ultraviolet light are taught which allow outdoor exposure without the sharp untanned lines normally seen on the side of the wearer's head. Eyeglasses and sunglasses with ultraviolet transmitting nose bridges are also taught.

Abstract: In a method and a system for organizing not yet implanted implantable medical devices, each having a telemetry unit associated therewith, a local administration unit transmits an inquiry signal to at least one of the telemetry units and receives a return signal therefrom in response to the inquiry signal. The return signal establishes the existence of the medical device, and the local administration unit, or a remote external unit in communication with the local administration unit, can then determine a course of action to be taken, such as a recall procedure, invoicing or taking inventory, based on the return signal from the medical device.

Abstract: Improved methods and devices perform anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) to convert a ventricular tachycardia (VT) to normal sinus rhythm. In one embodiment of the invention bi-ventricular (BV) ATP is employed. In this embodiment the right ventricle and left ventricle of a patient's heart are independently paced based on signals sensed in each chamber.

Abstract: An output circuit for use in an implantable cardiac defibrillation provides an output pulse having a waveform of virtually any desired shape. The device includes a sensing circuit that senses cardiac activity. An arrhythmia detector detects fibrillation responsive to the cardiac activity signal. The device further includes an output circuit that provides a stimulation output pulse when the arrhythmia detector detects a cardiac arrhythmia. The output circuit includes an H-bridge having a pair of switching devices which control the output pulse waveform with pulse-width modulation and a second pair of switching devices that control the output pulse polarity.

Abstract: A toddler stair safety system is taught using a temporary net to allow for reliable hand gripping. The major object of this invention is the use of a heavy net with an optimally sized mesh that provides an easy gripping surface for a toddler hands with no choking or entrapment hazards. A further object of this invention is to provide a method of providing tension securement to a carpeted surface by the use of deep-machined hook surfaces. Another object of this invention is to teach the use of fastening a net to an existing banister by the use of hook and loop fasteners. Another object of this invention is to teach the manufacture of a carpeted stair gripper, which allows objects to be attached, and custom fitted, to the edges of carpeted stair steps with great strength and with no tools or defacement of the stairs.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the electrical treatment of malignant tumors and neoplasms by applying a voltage to affected tissue. Devices and various adaptations therein are described for use in electrical therapy. Additionally, various chemotherapeutic agent and radiation therapies are described which may be advantageously used in conjunction with electrical therapy to ameliorate cancer.