Abstract: Provided herein are devices, systems, and methods for analyzing platelet function. In particular, provided herein are simple, portable, accurate and inexpensive small footprint platelet aggregometry devices, systems, and methods.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices, systems, and methods for analyzing platelet function. In particular, provided herein are simple, portable, accurate and inexpensive small footprint platelet aggregometry devices, systems, and methods.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for screening compounds and materials for otoxicity and otoprotective activity. In particular, the present invention relates to a model organism (e.g., Danio rerio) and system for measuring behavior associated with hair cell loss.

Abstract: Systems and methods for tracking health and providing feedback are disclosed. The invention provides novel systems and methods for receiving the input of a plurality of health variables associated with a patient, processing those health variables to calculate composite wellness, performance, and disease/decay variables. The systems and methods convert the wellness, performance, and disease/decay variables into graphical representations that are displayed against a time axis. The graphical representations update in real-time based on the input of additional health variable data. The systems and methods are also capable of outputting alarms based on tracked data, providing recommendation for improving the wellness, performance, and disease/decay variables in the future. The systems and methods use sensors and user-inputs to provide such functionalities.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to nanofibers. In particular, the present disclosure relates to nanofibers comprising multiple layers and their uses in cell culture and tissue engineering.

Abstract: A polymeric valve which may include a heart valve, and also may include a trileaflet heart valve includes a stent having a base and a plurality of outwardly extending posts from the base and equidistant from each other. A plurality of leaflets each connected to a corresponding one of the posts at one end, and each of the leaflets connected to the base. Each of the leaflets having an operative end opposite the end connected to the post, and the operative ends of the leaflets being biased in a closed position such that the operative ends abut each other. The operative ends are configured to rhythmically open and close in relation to each other, and the leaflets include multiple cross sectional thicknesses at different portions of the leaflets.

Abstract: Diseases, aging, trauma, environmental exposure, infection and other events or agents can alter tissue function. In one embodiment, treatment is provided by therapeutically altering tissue function. This may be by continuing normal tissue function, suppressing tissue function, or enhancing tissue function. In a preferred embodiment, this treatment is effectuated by penetrating an organ, organ component or tissue structure and placing a supplemental material in a newly created space. This space is generally referred to herein as a “privileged space”, i.e. a space not otherwise present in native tissue. Supplemental materials can be deposited and secured within the zone. Supplemental materials include materials forming barriers, supports, and/or materials that deliver agents having a pharmacologic, biochemical, or physiologic effect in vivo.

Abstract: A speculum sheath which covers a speculum and methods for using the sheath are described herein. A variety of different types of specula may be covered with the sheath, including anal, vaginal, ear, and nasal specula. The sheath is made of a compliant or partially compliant material, including latex, vinyl, natural and synthetic rubbers, silicone, nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, and non-degradable or degradable elastomers. The material may be transparent or opaque. In the preferred embodiment, the material is transparent. The sheath may contain one or two openings. Optionally, the sheath contains an affixing means on the inside of or at least one of the openings on the sheath to prevent slippage when in contact with the speculum. Optionally, the sheath contains an active agent, such as hemostatic agents, anti-infectives, antibiotics, antimitotics anti-inflammatory, or other chemotherapeutic agents.

Abstract: There is disclosed to a surgical instrument and methods for its use, for cutting tissue that has a positioning tube having a longitudinal axis, a cutting blade, that is at least substantially continuous, typically a ring, and a shaft. The shaft includes a distal end, that typically extends into the cutting blade, and engages the cutting blade in a rotational engagement, so as to confine its position while allowing it to rotate, upon the shaft rotating. At least a portion of the shaft is housed within the positioning tube. A frame is configured for receiving the proximal end of the shaft such that the shaft can rotate while being held in the frame. This reception and retention of the shaft by the frame is such that movement of the frame along the longitudinal axis moves the shaft and the cutting blade along the longitudinal axis. The cutting blade typically includes a sharpened edge, typically at its proximal end.

Abstract: A method for providing a synthetic barrier made of biocompatible polymeric materials in vivo which involves application of a material to a tissue or cellular surface such as the interior surface of a blood vessel, tissue lumen or other hollow space, is disclosed herein. The material may also be applied to tissue contacting surfaces of implantable medical devices. The polymeric materials are characterized by a fluent state which allows application to and, preferably adhesion to, tissue lumen surfaces, which can be increased or altered to a second less fluent state in situ; controlled permeability and degradability; and, in the preferred embodiments, incorporation of bioactive materials for release in vivo, either to the tissue lumen surface or to the interior of the lumen, which alter cell to cell interactions.

Abstract: A method for providing a synthetic barrier made of biocompatible polymeric materials in vivo which involves application of a material to a tissue or cellular surface such as the interior surface of a blood vessel, tissue lumen or other hollow space, is disclosed herein. The material may also be applied to tissue contacting surfaces of implantable medical devices. The polymeric materials are characterized by a fluent state which allows application to and, preferably adhesion to, tissue lumen surfaces, which can be increased or altered to a second less fluent state in situ; controlled permeability and degradability; and, in some embodiments, incorporation of bioactive materials for release in vivo, either to the tissue lumen surface or to the interior of the lumen.