Abstract: A device, system and method for in vivo imaging. A device may include a typically monochrome image sensor, a plurality of illumination sources, each illumination source having different spectral characteristics, and a controller configured for effecting successive illumination of each of the illumination sources within a single image capture cycle. Typically the image sensor is a monochrome sensor. The illumination may be provided by a white light source and a plurality of filters for filtering illumination from the illumination source. A final image may be obtained by processing precursor images created using different spectra or colors.

Abstract: An implanted medical device (e.g. infusion pump) and an external device communicate with one another via telemetry messages that are receivable only during windows or listening periods. Each listening period is open for a prescribed period of time and is spaced from successive listening periods by an interval. The prescribed period of time is typically kept small to minimize power consumption. To increase likelihood of successful communication, the window may be forced to an open state, by use of an attention signal, in anticipation of an incoming message. To further minimize power consumption, it is desirable to minimize use of extended attention signals, which is accomplished by the transmitter maintaining an estimate of listening period start times and attempting to send messages only during listening periods. In the communication device, the estimate is updated as a result of information obtained with the reception of each message from the medical device.

Abstract: An implanted medical device (e.g. infusion pump) and an external device communicate with one another via telemetry messages that are receivable only during windows or listening periods. Each listening period is open for a prescribed period of time and is spaced from successive listening periods by an interval. The prescribed period of time is typically kept small to minimize power consumption. To increase likelihood of successful communication, the window may be forced to an open state, by use of an attention signal, in anticipation of an incoming message. To further minimize power consumption, it is desirable to minimize use of extended attention signals, which is accomplished by the transmitter maintaining an estimate of listening period start times and attempting to send messages only during listening periods. In the communication device, the estimate is updated as a result of information obtained with the reception of each message from the medical device.

Abstract: A method of determining whether an individual has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder comprising: sampling the eye movement of a human subject during a predetermined time interval when the subject is in an inactive state to provide sampled eye movement data; and analyzing the sampled eye movement data for a pre-selected parameter, to determine whether said pre-selected parameter has a value indicative of ADHD.

Abstract: A method and structure for notifying clinicians with patients with implantable medical devices (IMDs), about recalls and upgrades, therapy improvements, longevity estimates/improvements, and follow-up frequency recommendations is implemented in an interactive preferably wireless communications system involving a preferably web-enabled remote expert station. Either the clinician or the patient may initiate and access the remote expert station. During such communications, the patient's IMDs are evaluated against a first database comprising patient data and a second database comprising statistical, survivability, probability projections. The patient or the clinician may also access a database containing patient-specific information including other device information. If one or more of the patient's IMDs matches with a recalled or an up-gradable unit such message is posted to the clinician and the patient.

Abstract: A pain inferring device for designing a shape giving a subject as little pain as possible when the subject touches the shape. The pain inferring device (10) includes an input unit (11), an output unit (12), a main control unit (13), a learning storage unit (14), and a neural network (15). The neutral network learns the relationship between the input value of shape data and the output value of the data on the degree of pain when a subject touches a shape. By the learning, an input/output function (namely, the coefficient of coupling of neurons in layers) representing the relationship between the input and output values is defined and stored in the learning storage unit (14). When the shape data is inputted through the input unit (11), the neural network (15) infers the degree of pain by using the function stored in the learning storage unit (11).

Abstract: A remote psychoanalysis system using operation history that allows any person to be subjected to psychological counseling, being not restricted by time and distance.

Abstract: A pulse oximeter adaptively samples an input signal from a sensor in order to reduce power consumption in the absence of overriding conditions. Various sampling mechanisms may be used individually or in combination, including reducing the duty cycle of a drive current to a sensor emitter, intermittently powering-down a front-end interface to a sensor detector, or increasing the time shift between processed data blocks. Both internal parameters and output parameters may be monitored to trigger or override a reduced power consumption state. In this manner, a pulse oximeter can lower power consumption without sacrificing performance during, for example, high noise conditions or oxygen desaturations.

Abstract: A pulse oximetry method and system for improved motion correction is disclosed. The method/system provides for the use of a detector output signal to obtain a different plurality of differential absorption data sets in corresponding relation to each of a succession of measurement, wherein each of the data sets includes differential absorption values for light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength. The data sets are processed to obtain a relative motion estimate value for each measurement. When the relative motion estimate value for a given measurement falls within a predetermined range (i.e., corresponding with clinical motion), a corresponding blood analyte indicator value is adjusted in a predetermined manner, wherein the corresponding adjusted blood analyte indicator is employable to obtain at least one blood analyte concentration value. In one embodiment, blood analyte indicator values may be readily multiplied by a predetermined adjustment factor (i.e.

Abstract: Test strips and methods are provided for use in the determination of the concentration of at least one target analyte in a physiological sample. The subject test strips include a plurality of skin-piercing elements affixed thereto. In the subject methods, the plurality of skin-piercing elements affixed to the test strip is inserted into the skin, physiological sample is transferred to the test strip and the concentration of an analyte is determined. The subject test strips and methods find use in a variety of different applications, particularly in the determination of glucose concentrations.

Abstract: Pharyngoesophageal monitoring systems are provided that monitor the environment of the pharynx and esophagus, and in some embodiments, detect and monitor refluxate, and may further record other physical episode data. The system may be provided, in some embodiments, as a bifurcated, adjustable, multiple internal reference probe, and methods thereof, to detect acid reflux and to monitor pH levels of acid reflux episodes simultaneously at multiple locations within the pharyngoesophageal passage. Some embodiments provide a recorder and one or a plurality of sensor arrangements, the recorder being responsive to the sensors and capable of correlation of signals generated by the sensor arrangements.

Abstract: A system is provided that enables glycemic control for a subject. The system includes an insulin delivery unit, a glucose sensor, and a control unit. The control unit includes a processor unit that receives glucose value readings from the glucose sensor, executes an algorithm that predicts a glucose value at a pre-determined time in the future, compares that predicted glucose value to a pre-determined glucose value range, and determines a corrective amount of insulin to be administered when the predictive glucose value lies outside of the pre-determined glucose value range. The control unit also includes a communication unit that transmits the corrective amount to the delivery unit.

Abstract: A method supplies a dynamic vector map of properties within a region or a unified suite of quantification functionality for property functions, such as density functions, conduction functions (e.g., thermal conduction, electrical conduction, atomic or subatomic mass conduction, macromolecular mass conduction), defined on, defined in or defining a three-dimensional space, which functions may optionally vary in time. There should be at least two services assisting in the definition of the map or suite, even in a dynamic modality, selected from: (a) Computation of the volume of the region where the density lies above or below a specified threshold, or between two specified values; (b) Computation of the integral of the density (that is, determining a total amount of material within the region); (c) Estimation of the rate of change of the density with respect to time, optionally restricted to a specified region.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for use within an image-guided surgical navigation system for the storage and measurement of trajectories for surgical instruments. An icon representing the real-time trajectory of a tracked instrument is overlaid on one or more pre-acquired images of the patient. At the surgeon's command, the navigation system can store multiple trajectories of the instrument and create a static icon representing each saved trajectory for display. The surgeon may also measure a planar angle between any two trajectories. The angle is computed in the plane of the image, and therefore will be computed separately for each image displayed. Furthermore, the surgeon has the option of computing and displaying the three-dimensional distance between two points defined by any two trajectories.

Abstract: An electrical impedance scanner having a probe in its contact surface [lacuna] an electrode matrix for detection of the surface distribution of the body current and/or body potentials originating from an opposing electrode which is fitted at some other point on the body of the patient, in which case additional ultrasound transducers (12) for the transmission and reception of ultrasound waves are installed in the contact surface (9) of the probe (3) and are connected to an ultrasound investigation appliance which has a monitor.

Abstract: The invention permits measurement of changes in chemical concentrations where the chemicals have the same resonance peak in magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Using this approach, MRS techniques with higher resolution can be used, even though they fail to resolve chemicals of interest into different peaks. The invention can be applied to diagnose diseases, e.g., metabolic disorders, and to measure time-dependent chemical response to sensory or pharmaceutical stimuli.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a magnetic resonance imaging antenna, including an inner conductor, an outer shield slideably displaceable with respect to the inner conductor, and an insulator electrically insulating the inner conductor from the outer shield. Herein is disclosed a biopsy needle antenna, including a magnetic resonance imaging antenna, having an outer shield, and an inner conductor electrically insulated from the outer shield by a dielectric; and a biopsy needle electrically connected to the inner conductor and electrically insulated from the outer shield by the dielectric. Herein is disclosed a method of obtaining a sample with magnetic resonance imaging guidance, including providing a sampling needle magnetic resonance imaging antenna, advancing the antenna to a structure from which the sample is to be taken, detecting magnetic resonance data by the antenna, and coupling the sample to the antenna.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a magnetic resonance imaging probe, having a probe shaft including a magnetic resonance antenna, and a spring tip attached to a distal end of the antenna.

Abstract: An endoscope apparatus comprises an endoscope having a treatment tool passage channel in at least an insertion portion, an adaptor for endoscope forceps opening, which can be detachably attached to a treatment tool insertion opening which is at one end of the treatment tool passage channel, an insertion shape detection probe provided with a plurality of shape detection elements which are to be passed and arranged in the treatment tool passage channel via the adaptor for endoscope forceps opening, an insertion shape detection unit for detecting magnetic field emitted from the shape detection elements of the insertion shape detection probe, an insertion shape detection device which drives the insertion shape detection probe and outputs video signals for visualizing the insertion shape from the signals corresponding to the magnetic field detected by the insertion shape detection unit, and a display device for displaying the insertion shape of the insertion portion based on the video signals output from the inser

Abstract: A system including an insertable probe and method of use thereof for immobilizing a region of interest during staging and radiation therapy thereof. The probe in its preferred embodiment is for immobilizing the male prostate region during target localization using portal imaging and radiation therapy to treat prostate cancer and comprises an elongated shaft supporting an inflatable balloon.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of imaging contrast agents within a patient's body. The apparatus includes an imaging system transmitting at multiple frequencies to elicit a response from the contrast agent at corresponding multiple frequencies, forms images corresponding to each frequency, and the combines the formed images.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods to image the skin surface in order to view intercellular and intracellular structure. In particular, the invention relates to use of a compound (e.g., fluorescent dye) to enhance contrast and obtain better imaging.

Abstract: Methods for diagnosing vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque using optical coherence tomography to measure tissue optical properties, including backreflectance of heterogeneous layers, such as plaque cap, lipid pool composition and macrophage presence. Methods also include measurement of spatially and temporally dependent reflectance, measurement of multiple wavelength reflectance, low coherence interferometry, polarization and quantification of macrophage content.

Abstract: This invention relates to MRI-based methods and systems useful for diagnosing and clinically assessing the presence, location, and size of cardiovascular disease-associated stationary targets, e.g., thrombi and atherosclerotic lesions, within the vascular system. Methods and systems of the invention allow for improved anatomical information to be obtained from MRI images and allow the clinician to develop more effective treatment plans. In one aspect, the invention provides a method of determining the presence or absence of a stationary target within the vascular system of a mammal wherein two MRI data sets representing images of the vascular system and the stationary target are acquired after administration of a targeted MRI contrast agent. In another embodiment, both a targeted MRI contrast agent and a vascular MRI contrast agent are administered to a mammal, and both a vascular MRI and a targeted MRI data set are acquired.

Abstract: An arcuate guide projection is provided on a front surface of a flange of a syringe barrel and an arcuate guide groove for guiding the guide projection is provided on a front sidewall surface of a flange insert groove of a cylinder holder. When the syringe is mounted, the guide projection and the guide groove are brought into engagement thereby preventing the flange from slipping off upwardly.

Abstract: An AC biasing arrangement for a micro-machined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) is disclosed. The AC biasing arrangement allows the sensitivity of each MUT element in an array to be adjusted without collapsing the MUT membrane. The sensitivity of the MUT element can be adjusted by varying the frequency of the AC bias signal supplied to the MUT element. An alternative embodiment of the invention adds a second AC bias signal having a phase opposite the phase of the first AC bias signal. This arrangement provides a neutral bias signal, thereby removing the large amplitude bias signal from the MUT element.

Abstract: Acoustic imaging systems are provided. A preferred system includes a transducer lens configured to mate with a transducer body. The transducer lens is configured to propagate acoustic energy. Preferably, the transducer lens is formed, at least partially, of an acoustic-matching material, which exhibits acoustic properties corresponding to acoustic properties of a body to be imaged. Methods also are provided.

Abstract: Wiring an IC, using flexible circuits, by relating a circuit board to an IC and using traces on the circuit board as a second set of input to the IC. More specifically, a set of first lands on the circuit board are connected to a first set of lands on the IC. The circuit board and IC are positioned so as to present a second set of lands on the circuit board in close proximity to a second set of lands on the IC. A first flex circuit is connected to the second lands on the circuit board while a second flex circuit is connected to the second lands on the IC. The flex circuits may be connected to signal wires or may serve themselves as the main signal wires.

Abstract: A micro-machined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) substrate that reduces or eliminates the lateral propagation of acoustic energy includes holes, commonly referred to as vias, formed in the substrate and proximate to a MUT element. The vias in the MUT substrate reduce or eliminate the propagation of acoustic energy traveling laterally in the MUT substrate. The vias can be doped to provide an electrical connection between the MUT element and circuitry present on the surface of an integrated circuit substrate over which the MUT substrate is attached.

Abstract: A semi-invasive ultrasound imaging system for imaging biological tissue includes a transesophageal probe or a transnasal, transesophageal probe connected to a two-dimensional ultrasound transducer array, a transmit beamformer, a receive beamformer, and an image generator. The two-dimensional transducer array is disposed on a distal portion of the probe's elongated body. The transmit beamformer is connected to the transducer array and is constructed to transmit several ultrasound beams over a selected pattern defined by azimuthal and elevation orientations. The receive beamformer is connected to the transducer array and is constructed to acquire ultrasound data from the echoes reflected over a selected tissue volume. The tissue volume is defined by the azimuthal and elevation orientations and a selected scan range. The receive beamformer is constructed to synthesize image data from the acquired ultrasound data.

Abstract: A system for attaching an acoustic element to an integrated circuit includes various ways in which to connect piezoelectric ceramic or micro-machined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) elements to an integrated circuit (IC), thus reducing the number of conductors required to connect the acoustic element to the IC by combining the signals in the IC. In another aspect of the invention, the transducer elements include an electrically conductive acoustic layer comprising a backing layer and/or a de-matching layer that is connected to an IC.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer array comprising individual transmit MUT elements and receive MUT elements includes the transmit MUT elements and the receive MUT elements distributed in two dimensions over the array. By using different MUT elements for transmit and receive operation, each MUT element can be independently optimized for either transmit operation or receive operation. Furthermore, by independently optimizing the MUT elements for either transmit or receive operation, the same bias voltage can be applied to the MUT elements, thereby simplifying the bias circuitry associated with the MUT transducer array. Alternatively, because the MUT elements are independently optimized for transmit and receive, different bias voltages can be applied to the transmit and receive elements, thus providing further optimization of the elements.

Abstract: An acoustic sensor device comprising a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and an aperture formed therethrough, the second surface having a curved portion; a layer of piezoelectric film having a first surface disposed on the curved portion of the substrate second surface; and a layer of pliable material disposed on a second surface of the piezoelectric film opposite the first surface for contacting with an object to be sensed.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for the simultaneous use of ultrasound on a probe for imaging and therapeutic purposes. The probe limits the effects of undesirable interference noise in a display by synchronizing high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) waves with an imaging transducer to cause the noise to be displayed in an area of the image that does not overlap the treatment site. In one embodiment, the HIFU is first energized at a low power level that does not cause tissue damage, so that the focal point of the HIFU can be identified by a change in the echogenicity of the tissue caused by the HIFU. Once the focal point is properly targeted on a desired treatment site, the power level is increased to a therapeutic level. The location of each treatment site is stored and displayed to the user to enable a plurality of spaced-apart treatment sites to be achieved. As the treatment progresses, any changes in the treatment site can be seen in the real time, noise-free image.

Abstract: An optical guide for a biopsy needle includes a light projector for producing a line image on a patient's skin surface, wherein the light projector is adapted for mounting on an ultrasound transducer such that the line image corresponds with an intersection of the transducer ultrasound plane with the skin surface.

Abstract: An ultrasound imaging system includes a scan conversion process for converting ultrasound data into a standard display format conversion and can be performed on a personal computer by programming the computer to convert data from polar coordinates to cartesian coordinates suitable for display on a computer monitor. The data is provided from scan head enclosure that houses an array of ultrasonic transducers and the circuitry associated therewith, including pulse synchronizer circuitry used in the transmit mode for transmission of ultrasonic pulses and beam forming circuitry used in the receive mode to dynamically focus reflected ultrasonic signals returning from the region of interest being imaged.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for detecting vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque, or plaque at risk of reducing blood flow in a vessel, by a identifying a region of elevated temperature along a living vessel wall. The disclosure that human atherosclerotic plaque with measurable temperature heterogeneity has the morphological characteristics of plaque that is likely to ulcerate provides a new and sensitive technique for detecting and treating these dangerous plaques before myocardial infarction and its consequences occur. The disclosed methods are advantageous over conventional plaque detection techniques because they are capable of differentiating between those plaques that are at great risk of rupture, fissure, or ulceration, and consequent thrombosis and occlusion of the artery and those that are not presently at risk. Infrared heat-sensing catheters useful for identifying potentially fatal arterial plaques in patients with disease of the coronary or other arteries are also described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the resolution of fundus images and correction of optical aberrations is described in which a bundle of electromagnetic beams is directed into an optical system and the reflected electromagnetic beams are recorded by a sensor. A processor may control the energy source to provide a plurality of different electromagnetic bundles to image the entire optical system. The reflected electromagnetic beams recorded by the sensor are compared to the original electromagnetic bundle configurations to calculate the aberrations of the optical system of interest. Among other applications, the calculated aberrations may be used to construct accurate fundus images, provide input for laser surgery of the eye, fabricate corrective lenses and provide accurate digital images of structures sensed through imperfect optical systems.

Abstract: A caloric exercise monitor and method for monitoring a person's caloric expenditure during exercising. The caloric exercise monitor generally includes a means for measuring the person's heart rate during exercise, an input device for enabling the person to enter an exercise goal, a calculating unit including a mathematical algorithm for calculating a caloric expenditure rate of the person during exercise based on the measured heart rate and a display for displaying an exercise parameter necessary to reach the entered exercise goal based on the calculated caloric expenditure rate. The displayed exercise parameter can be either or both the calories remaining to be expended to reach the entered goal or the remaining exercise time required to reach the entered goal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling the non-invasive acquisition of physiological parameters of a mammal, while allowing the mammal to move around a predetermined area is provided. In accordance with one example embodiment, a monitoring device for non-invasively acquiring physiological measurements of a mammal is provided. The device includes a first electrode configured to attach to an ear of the mammal in a manner suitable for obtaining a first electrical signal. A second electrode is configured to attach to a first alternate location of the mammal in a manner suitable for obtaining a second electrical signal. A third electrode is configured to attach to a second alternate location of the mammal in a manner suitable for obtaining a third electrical signal. The first electrode, second electrode, and third electrode are in communication with a signal receiver. Physiological parameters, such as those associated with electrocardiograms, can be obtained using the monitoring device.

Abstract: An interface is associated with a structure which, in use, is deployed in an interior body region of a patient. The structure includes an operative element coupled to a controller, which establishes an operating condition for the operative element to perform a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure in the interior body region. The interface generates a first display comprising an image of the structure at least partially while the operative element performs the procedure. The interface also generates a second display comprising one or more data fields reflecting the operating condition of the controller. The interface enables selection of the first display or the second display for viewing on a display screen.

Abstract: A method of displaying a representation of a physiological signal produced by a patient. The method includes the acts of obtaining a portion of at least one physiological signal acquired from the patient, determining an area to display, and constructing a virtual image representing at least a portion of the patient. The virtual image including (M) polygonal areas. The method further includes transforming the obtained signal to a plurality of values, assigning each value to one of the (M) polygonal areas, assigning a visual characteristic to each polygonal area based in part on the assigned values, and displaying at least a portion of the virtual image including the assigned visual characteristics. The invention further provides a method of optimal feature selection for the classification of the physiological signals produced by a patient.

Abstract: An indirect calorimeter for measuring the metabolic rate of a subject includes a disposable portion and a reusable portion. The disposable portion includes a respiratory connector configured to be supported in contact with the subject so as to pass inhaled and exhaled gases as the subject breathes. The disposable portion also includes a flow pathway operable to receive and pass inhaled and exhaled gases, having a first end in fluid communication with the respiratory connector and a second end in fluid communication with a source and sink for respiratory gases. The disposable portion is disposed within the reusable portion, which includes a flow meter, a component gas concentration sensor, and a computation unit. The flow meter generates a signal as a function of the instantaneous flow volume of respiratory gases passing through the flow pathway and the component gas concentration sensor generates a signal as a function of the instantaneous fraction of a predetermined component gas in the exhaled gases.

Abstract: A method for determining a threshold value of a parameter used to determine whether an individual has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) comprising: providing a group of individuals a segment of which is known to have ADHD and a segment of which is known to be normal and not have ADHD; testing each individual in the group by sampling the peripheral skin temperature of the individual during a pre-determined time interval when the subject is in an inactive state to provide sampled peripheral skin temperature data, and analyzing the sampled peripheral skin data to produce a parameter value for that individual; and processing the individual parameter values for all of the members of the group to determine a threshold parameter value which is acceptable for determining whether or not an individual has ADHD when tested by said testing procedure.

Abstract: A method and device to predict ovulation in a female human by measuring changes in the concentration of a number of ions in eccrine sweat is disclosed. The concentration, or changes in concentration, of one or more ions are determined throughout the day and analyzed against predetermined patterns in order to predict ovulation one to five days in advance. This permits the user to more accurately determine commencement of the fertile phase, which for female humans is generally considered to be about four days prior to ovulation to one day after ovulation. The concentration of the ions measured include sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), ammonium (NH4+), calcium (Ca2+), chloride (Cl−) and nitrate (NO3−) To further increase the accuracy of the reading, a large number of readings can be obtained throughout a day and statistically analyzed to determine the change over time. In addition, the concentration of two or more ions can be obtained to increase accuracy.

Abstract: An intra-vaginal self-administered cell collecting device and method includes inserting a tampon-like telescoping tube intra-vaginally. The tube includes an expandable preformed absorbent member having a textured cover. The absorbent member also includes a retrieval member extending therefrom. The tube is manipulated to expel the absorbent member intra-vaginally. The tube is removed and the absorbent member is retained intra-vaginally for a period of time. The absorbent member is retained from expanding from its preform when exposed to vaginal fluids by means of a cover on the absorbent material. The cover also captures soughed-off cells in the vaginal fluids. The absorbent material is retrieved manually by the retrieval member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for non-invasively withdrawing and accurately evaluating analytes quickly, painlessly and reliably from a biological subject automatically and controlling subsequent administration of therapeutic agents in response to such analyte sample analysis. Improvements are provided in electro-osmotic sample withdrawal, dosimetry and iontophoretic delivery subsystems, biosensors electrode construction and arrangement, intervenors, mediators, bolus delivery, and related subsystems.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for piercing the skin and accessing and collecting physiological sample therein. The subject devices include at least one fluid pathway, wherein at least a substantial portion of the distal end of the at least one fluid pathway is open to the outside environment. One or more subject devices may be integrated into a test strip for determining the concentration of at least one analyte in the sample. Also provided are methods for using the subject devices. The devices and methods are particularly suited for collecting physiological sample and determining glucose concentrations therein and, more particularly, glucose concentrations in blood, blood fractions or interstitial fluid. Also provided are kits that include the devices for use in practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: Blood withdrawal system for withdrawing blood for diagnostic purposes, comprising a housing with an outlet opening for the tip of a lancet, a lancet guide and a lancet drive. The lancet drive comprises a plural lever coupling mechanism, forming a connection between the drive element and the lancet during the puncturing movement and comprising two levers connected to each other via a first swivel joint, wherein one of the levers is coupled to the lancet with its end facing towards the lancet by means of a second swivel joint, and the second lever comprises a third swivel joint at the end facing away from the lancet. The plural lever coupling mechanism is moved, during the puncturing movement, from a first bent position via a straight position corresponding to the maximum puncturing depth to a second bent position, and is moved, during a cocking movement, from the second bent position via the straight position to the first bent position.

Abstract: Devices and methods for coupling guidewire system components are disclosed. A guidewire system includes a first wire having a first end and a second wire having a second end which may be selectively coupled to the first end of the first wire. Such guidewire systems are useful as guidewire extension systems.