Patents Issued in March 6, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030045765
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for manufacturing alkanes. comprising, as main stage, a reaction resulting from bringing methane into contact with at least one other starting alkane (A) in the presence of a catalyst based on a metal M capable of catalysing a metathesis of alkanes. The reaction results in the formation of at least one or two final alkanes (B) having a number of carbon atoms less than or equal to that of the starting alkane (A) and at least equal to 2. Preferably the catalyst comprises a hydride of a metal M grafted to and dispersed over a solid support. The metal M may be chosen from transition metals, lanthanides and actinides. The present invention also relates to the use of a catalyst capable of catalysing a metathesis of alkanes in a reaction resulting from bringing methane into contact with at least one other starting alkane (A).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Jean-Marie Basset, Christophe Coperet, Laurent Lefort, Barry Martin Maunders, Olivier Maury, Guillaume Saggio, Jean Thivolle-Cazat
  • Publication number: 20030045766
    Abstract: The invention relates to an extractive distillation composition for at least partially separating a mixture of hydrocarbon compounds comprising:
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Artie S. McKim, George Kvakovszky, Michael D. Donahue
  • Publication number: 20030045767
    Abstract: A chemical and biological warfare agent decontaminating solution having a peroxygen compound and bleach activator. The peroxygen compound and bleach activator are mixed in a surfactant system to generate a peroxycarboylic acid in-situ to detoxify warfare agents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: the United States of America
    Inventor: Jerry S. Brown
  • Publication number: 20030045768
    Abstract: An ultrasonic probe for microscopic operations in accordance with the present invention consists mainly of an ultrasonic probe body, an elongated tubular member, and a bent handle member. The ultrasonic probe body has a transducer assembly attached to the distal end of a soft elongated tube that is extended from a connector to be coupled to an ultrasonic observation apparatus, and has a coupler mounted on the tube thereof. The transducer assembly and tube are passed through the elongated tubular member. The handle member is attached to the proximal end of the tubular member and includes a coupling mechanism for use in coupling the coupler to the handle member so that the coupler can be uncoupled freely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Kenji Hirooka, Ichiro Ohdachi, Shinichi Tsutaki
  • Publication number: 20030045769
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for loading radioactive brachytherapy seeds into a seed cartridge for use with an applicator. Embodiments of the apparatus according to the present invention may include a number of contact points of a size and shape designed to conform to the main body of a brachytherapy seed. The apparatus may hold the seeds until the seeds are placed within a channel of the seed cartridge, at which point the seeds may be released from the contact sites by the application of a force to the seeds or by some other mechanism. The apparatus may be made from a flexible material so that the seeds may be released by the application of a tension force. According to embodiments of the method of loading the seed cartridge, seeds in the loader may be positioned in relation to the body of the loading apparatus and the ends of the seeds may be aligned with the channel of the seed cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: NORTH AMERICAN SCIENTIFIC, INC.
    Inventors: Dan Kalas, David Bossi, L. Michael Cutrer
  • Publication number: 20030045770
    Abstract: An apparatus (1) for applying magnetic field treatment to a biological entity is disclosed. The apparatus has a signal generation unit (6) for generating an electrical treatment signal, and an induction coil mat (5), connected to said signal generation unit (6). A magnetic field is generated by the induction coil mat (5) in accordance with said electrical treatment signal. The electrical treatment signal comprises frequency components of approximately 300 Hz, 600 Hz, 800 Hz and 1,000 Hz in superposition. A further set of frequencies in the range between 2 Hz and 32 Hz can be added. These further frequencies are chosen in accordance with a desired treatment mode of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Arnoldus Petrus van Mullekom
  • Publication number: 20030045771
    Abstract: Devices for treating heart failure by reducing wall tension may be configured to be positioned external to the heart. Devices may also be configured to draw portions of walls of a heart chamber toward each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Cyril J. Schweich, Todd J. Mortier, Robert M. Vidlund, Thomas M. Paulson, Peter T. Keith, David A. Kusz
  • Publication number: 20030045772
    Abstract: A blood pump is joined in parallel flow between the left ventricle and aorta of a patient's heart. The pump includes an inlet pressure sensor and cooperating controller for measuring inlet pressure to the pump to control operation thereof. The controller adjusts speed of the pump in a closed loop control using feedback of the measured inlet pressure to conform operation of the pump with the natural cycle of the heart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Sanford Reich, Edward Theodore Bullister
  • Publication number: 20030045773
    Abstract: An infant care unit and method include providing a base, providing an infant-support on the base, providing a canopy and providing a mounting assembly coupling the canopy to the base. The mounting assembly includes a pivot mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Joseph A. Costanzo, John L. Eble
  • Publication number: 20030045774
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of use are disclosed to treat urological disorders. The biocompatible device includes a handle, needle, dilator and sling assembly configured to be minimally invasive and provide sufficient support to the target site. In addition, the configuration of the sling assembly also allows the sling to be adjusted during and/or after implantation. The device and treatment procedure are highly effective and produce little to no side effects or complications. Further, operative risks, pain, infections and post operative stays are reduced, thereby improving patient quality of life.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: David R. Staskin, Johann J. Neisz, John W. Westrum, Gary A. Rocheleau, Kimberly A. Anderson, Eva S. Snitkin
  • Publication number: 20030045775
    Abstract: An anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method includes and uses an adjustable restriction device implanted in a patient, who suffers from anal incontinence. The restriction device engages the rectum of the patient to restrict the fecal passageway. An adjustment device is adapted to adjust the restriction device such that the rectum is temporarily released, in order to open the fecal passageway when the patient wishes to achieve defaecation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Obtech Medical AG.
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Publication number: 20030045776
    Abstract: A jacket of biological compatible material has an internal volume dimensioned for an apex of the heart to be inserted into the volume and for the jacket to be slipped over the heart. The jacket has a longitudinal dimension between upper and lower ends sufficient for the jacket to surround a lower portion of the heart with the jacket surrounding a valvular annulus of the heart and further surrounding the lower portion to cover at least the ventricular lower extremities of the heart. The jacket is adapted to be secured to the heart with the jacket surrounding at least the valvular annulus and the ventricular lower extremities. The jacket is adjustable on the heart to snugly conform to an external geometry of the heart and assume a maximum adjusted volume for the jacket to constrain circumferential expansion of the heart beyond the maximum adjusted volume during diastole and to permit unimpeded contraction of the heart during systole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Acorn Cardiovascular, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifton A. Alferness, Donald G. Rohrbaugh, J. Edward Shapland, Michael J. Girard, Donald F. Palme, James E. Cox
  • Publication number: 20030045777
    Abstract: A fluorescent endoscope apparatus in which the fluorescent light, which becomes noise, emitted from the photographic element propagating the autofluorescent light emitted from a living-tissue subject is reduced, and by which it is possible to clearly distinguish between normal and diseased tissues. The fluorescent endoscope apparatus has a stimulating light projecting unit for irradiating a living-tissue subject with stimulating light, a optical element for propagating the autofluorescent light emitted from the living-tissue subject that has been irradiated by stimulating light. It also has a photographing element, which is formed of the optical element, for photographing the autofluorescent light emitted by the living tissue subject irradiated by the stimulating light. The optical element is structured so as to satisfy the condition expressed by the formula: the strength of the autofluorescent light of normal tissue≧the strength of the autofluorescent light of the optical element×104.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kazuo Hakamata
  • Publication number: 20030045778
    Abstract: A steerable, tendon-driven endoscope is described herein. The endoscope has an elongated body with a manually or selectively steerable distal portion and an automatically controlled, segmented proximal portion. The steerable distal portion and the segment of the controllable portion are actuated by at least two tendons. As the endoscope is advanced, the user maneuvers the distal portion, and a motion controller actuates tendons in the segmented proximal portion so that the proximal portion assumes the selected curve of the selectively steerable distal portion. By this method the selected curves are propagated along the endoscope body so that the endoscope largely conforms to the pathway selected. When the endoscope is withdrawn proximally, the selected curves can propagate distally along the endoscope body. This allows the endoscope to negotiate tortuous curves along a desired path through or around and between organs within the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Robert M. Ohline, Joseph M. Tartaglia, Amir Belson, Alex T. Roth, Wade A. Keller, Scott C. Anderson, Chris A. Julian
  • Publication number: 20030045779
    Abstract: A portable endoscope has a liquid supplying tube that transmits liquid to the tip of the endoscope, a container that is spatially connected to the liquid supplying tube and stores the liquid, a gas supplying tube that is connected to an inside space of the container and transmits gas to the tip of the endoscope, a liquid and gas supplier that supplies the liquid in the container to the liquid supplying tube and supplies the gas to the gas supplying tube, and a holder that holds the container such that the container generally keeps a horizontal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: ASAHI KOGAKU KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Shunichi Ito
  • Publication number: 20030045780
    Abstract: Disclosed is a probe, which includes a plurality of first optical fibers and a plurality of second optical fibers that are tied as a composite bundle at a distal end side with forming a center channel through which a treatment instrument can be drawn. The first optical fibers are tied as a first branch bundle at a proximal end side and the second optical fibers are tied as a second branch bundle that is separated form the first branch bundle at the proximal end side. With this construction, a treatment instrument is available even if the probe is drawn through a forceps channel of an endoscope because the treatment instrument can be drawn through the center channel formed in the composite bundle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: ASAHI KOGAKU KOGYO KASBUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Tetsuya Utsui
  • Publication number: 20030045781
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for processing the signals of medical sensors for display or interpretation, respectively, in data monitors. The sensor signals are initially scaled or corrected, respectively, by means of an active circuit and are stored if and when necessary. The signals so corrected are then signalled to the data monitor by means of a bridge simulator or supplied to a correction circuit that corrects the signals of the sensor as such by feeding additional voltages or currents, respectively, or also by connecting further impedance elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Michael N. Rosenheimer
  • Publication number: 20030045782
    Abstract: Structure-based processing includes a method of diagnosing diseases that works by arranging diseases, symptoms, and questions into a set of related disease, symptom, and question structures, such as objects or lists, in such a way that the structures can be processed to generate a dialogue with a patient. A structure-based processing system organizes medical knowledge into formal structures and then executes those structures on a structure engine to automatically select the next question. Patient responses to the questions lead to more questions and ultimately to a diagnosis. An object-oriented embodiment includes software objects utilized as active, intelligent agents where each object performs its own tasks and calls upon other objects to perform their tasks at the appropriate time to arrive at a diagnosis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Edwin C. Iliff
  • Publication number: 20030045783
    Abstract: An ophthalmic lens comprising a receptor moiety can be used to determine the amount of an analyte in an ocular fluid. The receptor moiety can bind either a specific analyte or a detectably labeled competitor moiety. The amount of detectably labeled competitor moiety which is displaced from the receptor moiety by the analyte is measured and provides a means of determining analyte concentration in an ocular fluid, such as tears, aqueous humor, or interstitial fluid. The concentration of the analyte in the ocular fluid, in turn, indicates the concentration of the analyte in a fluid or tissue sample of the body, such as blood or intracellular fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Wayne Front March, Mary Flowers Mowery-McKee
  • Publication number: 20030045784
    Abstract: A finger oximeter has a fixed first finger grip member and a second finger grip member that is movable relative to the first fixed finger grip member. The finger grip members are mounted to a casing, with the first finger grip member being fixedly coupled to a top portion of the casing and the second finger grip member being movable vertically within the casing. A force is continuously applied against the movable finger grip member to bias it towards the fixed finger gripping member. This biasing force has sufficient yield so that when a finger is inserted between the two finger grip members, the movable finger grip member would yield to the incoming finger. At the same time the biasing force is of a sufficient magnitude to push the movable finger grip member towards the fixed finger grip member to effect a firm grip of the finger. The biasing force is evenly distributed to the movable finger grip portion to effect a floating finger grip suspension system for the finger oximeter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Sam Palatnik, Dave Donars, Robert Rammel
  • Publication number: 20030045785
    Abstract: An optical probe, which is particularly suited to reduce noise in measurements taken on an easily compressible material, such as a finger, a toe, a forehead, an earlobe, or a lip, measures characteristics of the material. A neonatal and adult disposable embodiment of the probe include adhesive coated surfaces to securely affix the probe onto the patient. In addition, the surface of the probe is specially constructed to reduce the effect of ambient noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Mohamed Diab, Esmaiel Kiani-Azarbayjany, David R. Tobler, Thomas J. Gerhardt, Eugene E. Mason, Mike A. Mills
  • Publication number: 20030045786
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for performing mechanical and structure analysis for medical implant systems. The structure to be analyzed is defined. A structure model of the structure is developed. A physical structure analysis is performed upon the structure. An integrating structure analysis based upon the structure model and the physical structure is performed, the integrating structure analysis to generate data for performing at least one of a design, development, simulation, safety evaluation, and manufacturing of the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Yong D. Zhao, Cathleen J. McMahon
  • Publication number: 20030045787
    Abstract: The present invention is to a method and apparatus to allow a portable patient data monitor to obtain an electrocardiogram (ECG) for transmission, such as over the Internet. A small electrical conductive patch is added to a sensor which is currently placed in the ear. This patch is used as a “dry” electrode to sense one side of the electrocardiogram signal generated within the subject. A second electrical conductive patch is added to the enclosure of the patient data monitor or other instrumentation package attached or located in an area near the waist of the patient. Wires or wireless interconnections are used to connect these two patches to an electrocardiogram amplifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Arthur E. Schulze, Waneta C. Tuttle
  • Publication number: 20030045788
    Abstract: A non-polarizable, silver/silver chloride biomedical electrode that is protected against corrosion during its shelf life by an organic corrosion retarding agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of mercaptans and azoles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Vinod P. Menon, Hatim M. Carim
  • Publication number: 20030045789
    Abstract: A syringe interface for attaching syringes to a drive mechanism which includes a drive member to impart motion to a syringe plunger includes a plurality of syringe mount apertures having different dimensions to attach each of a plurality of syringes to the syringe interface. Each of the syringes for attachment to the syringe interface includes at least one mounting flange, and each of the plurality of syringes has a different mounting flange dimension. Each of the plurality of syringe mount apertures is in general alignment with an axis of the drive member. A syringe drive mechanism includes a syringe interface as described above. The syringe drive mechanism can further include a sensing system to sense which size of the plurality of syringes is mounted on the syringe interface. The syringe drive mechanism can also include a processor and a memory which are in operative communication with the drive member. The memory includes a control program stored therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Jeffrey John Thompson, David M. Reilly, Matthew Beale, Drew Degentesh, Matthew Goodworth, Robert Parks
  • Publication number: 20030045790
    Abstract: A method and system for positioning an in vivo device and for obtaining a three dimensional display of a body lumen include obtaining a plurality of in vivo images; generating position information corresponding to each in vivo image; and combining the plurality of in vivo images into a single image according to the position information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Shlomo Lewkowicz, Arkady Glukhovsky, Daphna Levy, Gavriel Meron
  • Publication number: 20030045791
    Abstract: A contrast-enhanced MRI time course study of the brain is performed and images are produced which indicate hemodynamic parameters such as cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume (CBV) and mean transit time (MTT). An arterial input function (AIF) required to quantitatively measure the hemodynamic parameters is automatically produced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy J. Carroll
  • Publication number: 20030045792
    Abstract: A review and analyze protocol is described. The protocol comprises the steps of performing a patient scan to collect scan data to be used in generating an image, performing at least one of a single exam review and a dual exam review of images generated using the scan data, and analyzing an area of interest identified in performing the exam review.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Beth Ann Heckel, David C. Mack, Toan T. Le
  • Publication number: 20030045793
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for forming diagnostic images of a patient, which device includes an excitation member for irradiation or exposure of the patient, a detector for receiving radiation and for converting the radiation into image information, an image processing member which is connected to the detector and has a functionality for enhancing or modifying the image information, a monitor which is connected to the image processing member, and a storage medium for the temporary storage of a series of images for a predetermined duration; during operation the image processing member executes a first sub-operation on the image information in order to provide pre-processed image information which is stored in the temporary storage medium, whereas during the display of the preprocessed image information from the temporary storage medium the image processing member executes at least a second sub-operation thereon, the first sub-operation and the second sub-operation together providing the functionality of
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Peter Maria Johannes Rongen, Jacobus Johannes Maria Lukassen
  • Publication number: 20030045794
    Abstract: Disclosed is an ultrasound imaging system based on a multi-stage pulse compression and multi-stage time delaying scheme. In the ultrasound imaging system, a transducer array is grouped into a predetermined number of transducer groups, and the grouped ultrasound signals are processed hierarchically via multi-stage pulse compression and multi-stage time delaying operations so that a finely receive-focused ultrasound signal can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Moo Ho Bae
  • Publication number: 20030045795
    Abstract: A method is provided to simultaneously acquire two ultrasound images. A first set of ultrasound pulses are transmitted at a first frame rate utilizing a first mode of operation. The echoes from the first set of ultrasound pulses are received. A second set of ultrasound pulses are transmitted at a second frame rate utilizing a second mode of operation. The first and second frame rates are different. The first set of ultrasound pulses defines an entire image, while the second set of ultrasound pulses defines a partial image. The echoes from the second set of ultrasound pulses are received, and the echoes from the first and second sets of ultrasound pulses are displayed as a single image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Steinar Bjaerum, Johan Kirkhorn, Hans Garmann Torp, Kjetil Viggen, Bjorn Olstad, Kjell Kristoffersen, Erik N. Steen, Dagfinn Saetre
  • Publication number: 20030045796
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for use in a diagnostic ultrasound system are disclosed. A display device has a first window for displaying live ultrasound images and a second window for displaying a reference cine image. The reference cine image is an image captured prior to the currently displayed live ultrasound images. The images of the first and second windows are synchronized by ECG gating. The apparatus and methods may be employed to image the heart, providing operators with a way to monitor the heart and detect subtle changes in heart condition from the time that a reference image was captured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Zvi M. Friedman
  • Publication number: 20030045797
    Abstract: In an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system, the parameters which govern the display of Doppler information are automatically optimized to make better use of the display range or area. Spectral Doppler information may be used to optimize a spectral display or a colorflow display, and colorflow Doppler information may be used to optimize a spectral display or a colorflow display. The optimization may be invoked by a manual user control which automatically optimizes one or a plurality of display parameters. Automatic optimization may be invoked only when called for by the user, or periodically after a time interval, a given number of heart cycles, or when the user has made a change to the display or imaging mode. Preferably the optimization processor runs continuously in the background so that optimized parameters are available immediately when called for. The optimization processor may utilize “hidden” Doppler data which has been acquired but is not used for display purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Donald Christopher, Marshall Robinson, Helen Routh, Claudio Simon, Ahmed Morsy, Keith Johnson, Patrick Rene Pesque
  • Publication number: 20030045798
    Abstract: A multisensor probe for continuous real-time tissue identification. The multisensor probe includes a tissue penetrating needle, a plurality of sensors useful in characterizing tissue and a position sensor to measure the depth of the needle into the tissue being diagnosed. The sensors include but are not limited to an optical scattering and absorption spectroscopy sensor, an optical coherence domain reflectometry sensor, an electrical impedance sensor, a temperature sensor, a pO2 sensor, a chemical sensor and other sensors useful in identifying tissue. The sensors may take the form of a plurality of optical fibers extending through said needle. A retractable sheath may be disposed around the distal section of the needle to protect the needle when not in use. The sheath retracts when the probe is inserted into tissue and the position of the sheath relative to the needle may be measured to determine the needle's depth. Systems and methods for tissue identification are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Richard Hular, Luiz Da Silva, Charles Chase
  • Publication number: 20030045799
    Abstract: A portable device for observing a typological characteristic of the body. For example, the device can be used to observe at least one characteristic of the appearance of the skin or the hair. The device can generate at least two images of the zone under examination. The images differ from each other as to a feature other than magnification and the intensity of the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventors: Roland Bazin, Franck Giron
  • Publication number: 20030045800
    Abstract: In an implantable intravascular pressure determining device and method, a pressure sensor generates a raw pressure signal and an acceleration sensor measures acceleration in a patient. Time intervals are identified wherein the raw pressure signal accurately represents the intravascular pressure, these intervals being identified as the time intervals wherein the measured acceleration is below a predetermined threshold. The raw pressure signal is processed, to generate a processed signal which is used as an intravascular pressure signal, only in the aforementioned time intervals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: St. Jude Medical AB
    Inventors: Kjell Noren, Seven-Erik Hedberg, Kenth Nilsson
  • Publication number: 20030045801
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring blood pressure by the oscillometric technique. The method incorporates variable PIP's. The method comprises the steps of obtaining a value for the peak amplitude Amax of an oscillometric envelope; determining a cuff pressure, CP, which corresponds in time with Amax, this pressure representing the MAP of the subject; computing a variable value PIPSBP as a function of MAP; performing the calculation Asbp=Amax*PIPSBP to determine a systolic amplitude value Asbp along the oscillometric envelope; and determining the cuff pressure C which corresponds in time to Asbp, this value representing the systolic blood pressure (SBP) of the subject. PIP can be calculated using a piece-wise linear, polynomial, exponential or other function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: VSM Medtech Ltd.
    Inventors: Yunquan Chen, Anton Bogdan Zorn, Kevin Daryl Strange
  • Publication number: 20030045802
    Abstract: There is provided a pulsimeter capable of stopping pulse rate measurement processing of the pulsimeter when the pulse sensor is not in contact with the skin or the pulse sensor is poorly attached. The pulsimeter of the present invention is characterized by including drive means for driving and stopping the pulse sensor, contact detection means for detecting whether or not the pulse sensor is in contact with a skin, and control means for stopping the drive of the pulse sensor by the drive means when it is detected by the contact detection means that the pulse sensor is not in contact with the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kazuo Kato
  • Publication number: 20030045803
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for simulating cardiac motion for use with an imaging system are provided. The apparatus includes an expandable balloon-like member having a number of protrusions fluidly connected thereto. Fluid is circulated between the pump and a fluid reservoir by a pump which is controlled by a programmable controller. Imaging data is acquired during circulation of the fluid between the reservoir and the phantom and subsequently analyzed to determine the effectacy and efficiency of the imaging protocol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kishore C. Acharya
  • Publication number: 20030045804
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a plurality of ECG precordial leads using a precordial central terminal derived from a plurality of electrodes for attachment around the circumference of a patient's upper torso. The apparatus is a device including a plurality of electrodes, an acquisition module including a signal processor coupled to the plurality of electrodes for acquiring electrical signals from the electrodes and for generating a plurality of ECG precordial leads from the acquired electrical signals. According to the method of the invention, an approximation of the electrical potential near the center of the patient's heart (i.e., a precordial central terminal) is generated based on the signals acquired from the plurality of electrodes. The precordial central terminal signal is subtracted from the signal acquired from each electrode attached to the patient's chest in order to generate the precordial leads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: G.E. Medical Systems Information Technologies
    Inventor: Donald E. Brodnick
  • Publication number: 20030045805
    Abstract: Techniques for detection and treatment of myocardial ischemia are described that monitor both the electrical and dynamic mechanical activity of the heart to detect and verify the occurrence of myocardial ischemia in a more reliable manner. The occurrence of myocardial ischemia can be detected by monitoring changes in an electrical signal such as an ECG or EGM, and changes in dynamic mechanical activity of the heart. Dynamic mechanical activity can be represented, for example, by a heart acceleration signal or pressure signal. The electrical signal can be obtained from a set of implanted or external electrodes. The heart acceleration signal can be obtained from an accelerometer or pressure sensor deployed within or near the heart. The techniques correlate contractility changes detected by an accelerometer or pressure sensor with changes in the ST electrogram segment detected by the electrodes to increase the reliability of ischemia detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd J. Sheldon, Lee Stylos, Shannon D. Nelson, Robert W. Stadler
  • Publication number: 20030045806
    Abstract: A movement sensitive mattress (2) is disclosed that has a plurality of independent like movement sensors (5) for measuring movement at different locations on the mattress to generate a plurality of movement signals. The signals are processed to derive respiratory variables including rate, phase, maximum effort and heartrate. Such variables can be combined to derive one or more diagnostic variables including apnea and laboured breathing classifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: JOHN WILLIAM ERNEST BRYDON
  • Publication number: 20030045807
    Abstract: A method of sampling one or more respiratory profile characteristics and monitoring a variety of respiratory profile parameters. The sampled respiratory characteristics include respiratory flow rate, respiratory pressure, and partial pressure of at least one constituent of a patient's respiration. The method detects patient breaths, determines whether each breath is a spontaneous breath or a ventilator-induced breath and calculates various respiratory profile parameters based on the sampled measurements. The method displays the respiratory profile parameters in graphic and numeric forms. Preferably, the method allows a user to select the displayed respiratory profile parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Rich Daniels, John R. DelFavero, Barry J. Feldman, Paul B. Gunneson, Michael B. Jaffe, Eric P. Wigforss
  • Publication number: 20030045808
    Abstract: A method and system is disclosed for detecting proximity of a nerve to a proximity electrode and status of nerve. The method of detecting the proximity of the nerve to the proximity electrode applies a first electrical signal with multiple current levels to a calibration electrode. The method applies a second electrical signal with multiple current levels to the proximity electrode. Based on the response of the nerve to the first and second electrical signals, the method determines the proximity of the proximity electrode to the nerve. The method determines the status of the nerve by applying the first electrical signal with multiple signal levels to the calibration electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Norbert F. Kaula, Jeffrey J. Blewett, James F. Marino
  • Publication number: 20030045809
    Abstract: A diagnostic method comprises selecting 24 biologically active points (BAPs), measuring the skin resistance at the points, plotting the average resistance for the points as an isoelectric line and defining a normal corridor. A stimulation is applied to each of the points and thereafter the skin resistance is once again measured. The results of the two sets of measurements are compared and diagnostic conclusions are reached from their comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Alexander Kanevsky
  • Publication number: 20030045810
    Abstract: A fungal skin infection diagnostic kit is disclosed with a plurality of components stored within a box. The box can be provided with a colorful, attractive front graphic and may include a photo of a working pathologist, etc. The box can be provided with a hole allowing for easy hanging and display of the product. The kit is used for transferring one or more skin lesions to a remote location, such as a diagnostic lab. The kit can include a plastic diagnostic slide with attached self-adhesive tape, a plastic specimen bag where the slide with attached skin lesion can be placed, medical information and use instructions, and a return envelope. The specimen bag is preferably provided with a zip-type closing mechanism and a bar code with corresponding case number. The return envelope is preferably prepaid. The kit can also include a data form to be filled out by the user for his or her personal information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Piotr Borkowski
  • Publication number: 20030045811
    Abstract: A surgical apparatus for removing a portion of tissue comprising an elongated body having a distal edge and a cutting member fixedly mounted to the elongated body and extending distally of the distal edge of the elongated body member. The cutting member has an exposed conductive distal edge forming an electrosurgical cutting surface for applying electrical energy to tissue. The cutting member resects a tubular region of tissue as the apparatus is advanced through tissue and the resected tissue extends through an opening in the cutting ring for containment within the elongated body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Rex Medical
    Inventors: Peter W. J. Hinchliffe, James F. McGuckin, Stephan A. DeFonzo
  • Publication number: 20030045812
    Abstract: A device and method for removing a generally cylindrical tissue structure such as a blood vessel from the body of a human or animal. The device includes a body portion having distal and proximal ends with at least one lumen extending longitudinally through the body portion. The lumen is sized to accommodate the vessel and at least one tool used in removing the vessel. Means is provided for isolating the vessel from the tools used in the removal procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: David R. Knighton, Vance D. Fiegel
  • Publication number: 20030045813
    Abstract: A blood gas syringe includes a porous plastic plug having a crosslinked hydrogel affixed to a wall of a passageway of the plug. When a blood sample is taken with the syringe, the incoming sample forces air in the system out through the passageway of the plug until the sample contacts the hydrogel, causing the passageway to seal shut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Richmond R. Cohen, Preston Keusch
  • Publication number: 20030045814
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for collecting a DNA sample from the skin and/or from the oral cavity of a subject, the apparatus comprising a handle mounted absorbent layer supported by a resilient layer and bar codes for association of the sample with identification and evidence documents a storage system is provided to allow sample location using a bar code identifier which avoids removal of the device from storage and avoids disturbing the collected sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Jangbir S. Sangha