Abstract: An Axially Graded Index LEns (AGILE) is provided. Such optical elements can provide optical concentration in excess of the free-space brightness theorem limit, because of the increased refractive index at the output of the concentrator compared to the input. Optical contact (i.e., no intervening low index material) between the AGILE and the absorbing element (or an optical source) can be employed to ensure no loss of brightness at the interface between the AGILE and the absorbing element (or source). Although solar cell concentration is a significant application of this technology, there are various other applications, such as increasing the efficiency of optical emission, and providing transmissive optical windows that include optically cloaked regions.

Abstract: Such optical elements can provide optical concentration in excess of the free-space brightness theorem limit, because of the increased refractive index at the output of the concentrator compared to the input. Optical contact (i.e., no intervening low index material) between the AGILE and the absorbing element (or an optical source) can be employed to ensure no loss of brightness at the interface between the AGILE and the absorbing element (or source). Although solar cell concentration is a significant application of this technology, there are various other applications, such as increasing the efficiency of optical emission, and providing transmissive optical windows that include optically cloaked regions.

Abstract: Devices, bandages, kits and methods are described that can control or regulate the mechanical environment of a wound to ameliorate scar and/or keloid formation. The mechanical environment of a wound includes stress, strain, and any combination of stress and strain. The control of a wound's mechanical environment can be active, passive, dynamic, or static. The devices are configured to be removably secured to a skin surface in proximity to the wound site and shield the wound from endogenous and/or exogenous stress.

Abstract: A gastric balloon includes a scaffold structure, one or more internal inflatable compartments within the scaffold structure, and one or more inflatable bladders formed over the space-filling compartment. The gastric balloon may be deployed transesophageally using a gastroscope and is inflated in situ, preferably using a combination of liquid and gas inflation media.

Abstract: A gastric balloon includes a scaffold structure, one or more internal inflatable compartments within the scaffold structure, and one or more inflatable bladders formed over the space-filling compartment. The gastric balloon may be deployed transesophageally using a gastroscope and is inflated in situ, preferably using a combination of liquid and gas inflation media.