Abstract: A fastening assembly is provided for fastening a fixing element, for example a plate, a brace, an angle, a profile, an armature, a retainer or the like to a substructure by means of at least one screw, which can be passed through at least one bore in the fixing element and can be screwed into the substructure. A bushing is arranged in the bore to be able to be swiveled in arbitrary spacial direction. The screw is passed through the bushing. The bushing comprises a seat for at least partially receiving a head of the screw.

Abstract: A bone fixation system has at least one cerclage cable and an elongate bone plate. The bone plate has a bone contacting surface, first and second spaced side portions and an outer surface opposite said bone contacting surface. The elongate plate includes a plurality of apertures or openings therethrough surrounded by the side portions. The apertures extending from the outer surface to the bone contacting surface and being spaced to form bridge portions between adjacent apertures. Each of the bridge portions including at least two pairs of through bores extending between the first and second side portions for receiving cerclage cable. Each of the first and second side portions forming the sides of at least one of the apertures also has a cerclage wire bore extending therethrough.

Abstract: A bone plate for fixation of a fractured bone includes a first portion having a first longitudinal axis and a second portion having a second longitudinal axis. The second portion is angled with respect to the first portion. The first portion has at least one hole for receiving a bone anchor having a shaft. The hole has a first hole portion defining a first central axis substantially perpendicular to a lower surface of the first portion and configured to receive the bone anchor. The hole includes a second hole portion overlapping and in communication with the first hole portion from upper to lower surface defining a second central axis substantially angled with respect to the first central axis, and configured to receive the bone anchor such that the shaft is substantially angled with respect to the second portion of the bone plate so as to form a truss.

Abstract: A tool system for working on a bone plate is described. The tool system includes a first tool and a second tool, used at the same time as the first tool to shorten or bend the bone plate. Each of the two tools includes one or more introduction openings with which in turn one or more blades may be associated.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of photoeradication of cells at a tissue site, such as an infection or sterilization site or cancer cell activity site, including applying a solution such as methylene blue, toluidene blue, polymyxin B, SDS, or other surfactants and combinations thereof to the tissue site and exposing the tissue site with a light having a light wavelength and light dosage and a light dosage rate. The solution may have a concentration of methylene blue between 5 ?g/ml to about 100 ?g/ml. The wavelength may range from about 610 nm to about 670 nm. The light dosage may range from about 0 J/cm2 to about 200 J/cm2. The light dosage rate may range from about 0 mw/cm2 to about 150 mw/cm2. Treatable organisms include candida albicans, escherechia coli, pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus pneumoniae, and clostridia.

Abstract: A transverse guide assembly for use in passing a transverse pin through a host bone and through a transversely-extending region formed in an interference screw, wherein the transverse guide assembly includes a key member, a boom member and a guide member, and further wherein the key member is adapted to be connected to a keyway formed in the proximal end of the interference screw, the boom member is connected to the key member and supports the guide member outboard of the interference screw, and the guide member is configured to support a drill for forming a hole to receive the transverse pin which extends transversely through the host bone and the transversely-extending region formed in the interference screw.

Abstract: The invention relates to a folding device for folding intraocular implants having flexible optical portions. Said device comprises two folding element facing each other and whose ends are connected together by deformable means. Each folding element comprises a body and a jaw projecting from said body, an elastically deformable support projecting from said body in the direction in which the two elements are brought together, a positioning stud projecting from said second end of the support perpendicularly to said support and facing upwards so as to co-operate, at rest, with the periphery of the optical portion of the implant, and an extension projecting from said body in the direction in which the two elements are brought together, and having a ramp suitable for co-operating with the support on the other folding element while the two folding elements are being brought together to cause said positioning stud to be lowered.

Abstract: An introducer system for use with a pacemaker lead includes a plastic sheath compatible for insertion within a body, a first end configured for insertion into the body with a second end extending out of the body. A central lumen of the sheath is configured to permit introduction of the lead and includes a flexible, kink-resistant section smooth on its outer surface with a helical pleat defining a helical groove enabling a conductor extending from the mapping probe to the pacing system analyzer to be received in the helical groove of the sheath. A mapping probe at the first end of the sheath is connectable to a pacing system analyzer for seeking a location on the myocardial surface of the heart or an endocardial location at which optimal pacing parameters can be achieved prior to implantation of the lead.

Abstract: A three-pin skull clamp [10] includes a C-shaped frame [12] which partially encircles the head [18] of the patient, with a spring-loaded single skull pin assembly [22] located at one end of the frame [12] and adapted to engage the head [18] of the patient with a desired engagement force, and two spaced skull pins [30] mounted to a rocker arm [44] located at an opposite end of the frame [12]. Each of the rocker arm skull pins [30] resides in operative contact with an indicator cap [66] held by a spring-loaded pin carrier assembly [50], the indicator cap [66] being movable relative to the rest of the pin carrier assembly [50] in response to the engagement force applied to the corresponding skull pin [30] by the head [18] of the patient. By visibly comparing the positions of the indicator caps [66] relative to their respective pin carrier assemblies [50], one can readily determine whether the engagement forces are equally distributed between the two rocker arm skull pins [30].

Abstract: A surgical tack is disclosed for securing a surgical mesh material to body tissue. The tack includes a pair of legs and an arcuate cross-member. A surgical tack applier is also disclosed, for applying the surgical tack. The applier includes an elongate tubular portion having a jacket with a main channel and a pair of longitudinally extending sub channels. A rotatable drive rod having a helical thread is coupled to the applier, and the sub channels receive the legs of the tack. The helical thread receives the arcuate cross-member of the surgical tack. Rotation of the drive rod drives the tack from the distal end of the applier.

Abstract: Surgical articles, implants and components suitable creating composite slings are described. Novel procedures for assembling and utilizing composite slings are also detailed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for blocking orifices and occluding cavities within a patient are provided. The device in one variation comprises first and second tubular members attached to a collapsible sealing element. The device can be placed through an orifice and the collapsible sealing element can be collapsed to seal the orifice. An embolic may be introduced distal to the sealing element to occlude a cavity. The device may incorporate a locking mechanism which can be engaged to lock the sealing element into the collapsed position. The device may incorporate a valve to prevent flow through the tubular members, for example to prevent egress of the embolic from a cavity. The device can be detached to provide a permanent seal of the orifice, and can retain the embolic within the cavity. The device may be used in conjunction with a stent or other retention device to assist the sealing element in maintaining the seal.

Abstract: An ultrasonic calculus treatment apparatus includes a longitudinal-vibration piezoelectric oscillator for vibrating in the axial direction of an ultrasonic transmitting member and a torsional-vibration piezoelectric oscillator for vibrating about the axial direction, and further includes driving circuits for driving the piezoelectric oscillators at respective resonance frequencies and a mode selection switch for permitting the oscillators to vibrate independently or in combination, so that lithotripsy can be performed effectively in accordance with the size of a calculus or a function of an operating tool.

Abstract: A medical instrument for dissecting tissue in the human or animal body comprises a shaft. At least one movable tool is arranged at a distal end of the shaft. At least one movable grip element is arranged at a proximal end of the shaft. A force transmission element extends along the shaft, which force transmission element is movable relative to the latter and transmits thrust and/or tension forces and whose proximal end is non-positively joined to the at least one movable grip element and whose distal end is non-positively joined to the at least one movable tool. The shaft is further provided with a bend at least one point between the distal end and the proximal end. The force transmission element is configured, at least in the region of the bend, as a flexible tubular element conforming to the bend, which is guided in contact with the shaft.

Abstract: A surgical cutting tool in which at least one slot is formed through the wall of a tubular housing and receives a blade. An actuator is disposed in the bore and engages the blade so that axial movement of the actuator in the bore causes radial movement of the blade relative to the slot to change the amount of tissue to be removed.

Abstract: A tissue penetrating system includes a plurality of cartridges each with a distal port and a proximal port. A plurality of penetrating members are provided, each coupled to a cartridge and having a sharpened distal tip and a shaft portion slidably disposed within the cartridge. A seal is formed by a fracturable material between the penetrating member and the cartridge. The seal is positioned at one or both of a distal port or a proximal port of the cartridge.

Abstract: Non-fluidized tissue expanders, tissue expander systems, and methods of expanding tissue are disclosed. The tissue expanders, systems, methods of the present invention incorporate an expandable encapsulated body mass implantable within the patient and operative to selectively expand to promote growth of an enlarged area of skin and subcutaneous tissue. Such tissue expansion is accomplished utilizing internal one or more distraction mechanisms disposed within the tissue expanders that are operative to expand by mechanical or electro-mechanical means. The present invention omits any type of inflatable body requiring the injection of fluids to effectuate expansion of the tissue expander.

Abstract: An intravascular catheter system, such as a dilatation catheter system for angioplasty procedures, which provides for the replacement of the catheter or the guidewire during the procedure. The intravascular catheter has a guidewire-receiving inner lumen extending along its length. A first guidewire port is provided in the catheter body at or near the proximal end of the catheter. A second guidewire port is provided in the catheter body at a location spaced distally from the first guidewire port and proximally from a diagnostic or therapeutic tool, such as a dilatation balloon, on a distal portion of the catheter. A third guidewire port is provided in the distal end of the catheter. The guidewire ports are in communication with the guidewire-receiving inner lumen.

Abstract: A system for treating an aneurysm in a vessel includes a delivery device having a delivery portion suitable for delivery of embolic material. The delivery device is placed in a neck of the aneurysm and an expandable member is placed proximate the neck. The expandable member is expanded to overlie substantially the entire neck. Embolic material is delivered to the aneurysm with a delivery device. The expandable member is held over the neck to inhibit movement of the embolic material out of the aneurysm. Blood is allowed to flow out of the aneurysm, past the neck of the aneurysm, and through the vessel while the expandable member is held over the neck of the aneurysm.

Abstract: A removable vascular filter system for capture and retrieval of emboli while allowing continuous perfusion of blood during a carotid endarterectomy procedure, comprising a porous filter membrane with variable diameter holes, and a filter membrane support structure. The system may minimize the incidence of stroke, or other clinical complications that may be associated with carotid endarterectomy procedures.

Abstract: A removable vascular filter system for capture and retrieval of emboli while allowing continuous perfusion of blood during a cardiopulmonary bypass procedure, comprising a porous filter membrane with variable diameter holes, and a filter membrane support structure. The system may minimize the incidence of stroke, myocardial infarction or other clinical complications that may be associated with cardiopulmonary bypass procedures.

Abstract: Methods and devices for providing temporary placement of a filter in a blood vessel are disclosed. A filter delivery system in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a catheter having an elongate shaft and a tubular member disposed within a shaft lumen defined by the elongate shaft. The elongate shaft also includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a wall defining the shaft lumen. The tubular member has a first end fixed to the wall of the elongate shaft, and a second end disposed within the shaft lumen. The tubular member defines a guidewire lumen that is in fluid communication with a distal guidewire port defined by the second end of the tubular member. The catheter also includes a proximal guidewire port extending through the wall of the elongate shaft. A filter may be disposed within a distal portion of the shaft lumen. A distal end of a guidewire is fixed to the filter.

Abstract: The invention provides devices, systems and methods for occluding arteries without puncturing skin or vessel walls. The devices, systems and methods for occluding arteries are configured to be applied to arteries externally of the arteries. Occlusion may be temporary or permanent, and may be partial or complete. Clamping a device to tissue near to an artery is effective to compress tissue around the artery and to indirectly compress the artery. The methods, devices and systems of the invention find use in, for example, treatment of uterine disorders and conditions which may be treated by occlusion of the uterine arteries. A uterine artery may be accessed via a patient's vagina by compressing a portion of the vaginal wall around a portion of a uterine artery to occlude a uterine artery. Clamping of an artery may also be performed by clamping a device directly onto an artery.

Abstract: A light emitting diode projection apparatus and method is provided for irradiating a subject with ultraviolet radiation, comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes configured to emit ultraviolet radiation and arranged in a matrix, and a power modulation control unit in communication with the diodes. The power modulation control unit is configured to energize and cause the diodes to emit light and thereby irradiate the subject with ultraviolet radiation sufficient to cause material physical change in the subject.

Abstract: The invention provides a medical device having a thermister for temperature measurement, irrigation/aspiration ports for fluid exchange and application of therapeutic modalities, a pressure manometer for pressure measurement, and an external system for control of temperature, pressure, and flow rate. When applied to the eye and orbit, this device can be used in hypothermia or hyperthermia applications, the control of intraocular pressure (IOP), and the application of treatment modalities. Methods of using the device in treating patients suffering from central retinal artery occlusion, anterior optic nerve disease, pathology of the choroid and retina including the macula, inflammation of the eye including the vitreous and anterior segment, glaucoma, inflammation and/or infections of the anterior and/or posterior segment of the eye, treatment before/during/after surgery of the eye, and the application of treatment modalities through a semi-permeable membrane are described.

Abstract: A catheter system and methods for repairing a valvular annulus or an annular organ structure of a patient comprising intimately contacting the annular organ structure by a tissue-contactor member having energy-delivering elements, and delivering tissue-shrinkable energy at the annular organ structure through the elements, wherein the tissue-shrinkable energy is applied at a distance wirelessly from the elements sufficient to shrink and tighten the organ structure.

Abstract: A flexible tubular stent including loosely interlocked annular elements without intersections or cross-over points.

Abstract: Medical implants containing a temporary plasticizer, methods of producing such implants, and methods of using the implants in treating a disease, or ameliorating one or more symptoms thereof, in a subject are provided.

Abstract: The invention is a system, apparatus, and method for treating or repairing, an aneurysm in a large vessel, such as a thoracic aneurysm. The systems, devices, and methods of the present invention include a first prosthesis for anchoring a proximal end of the system in the blood vessel, a second prosthesis for anchoring a distal end of the system, and at least one third second prosthesis for bypassing the aneurysm, the first prosthesis optionally further comprising a seat or the like adapted and configured to receive the third prosthesis.

Abstract: Methods of preparing intravascular stents with a polymeric coating containing macrocyclic lactone (such as rapamycin or its analogs), stents and stent graphs with such coatings, and methods of treating a coronary artery with such devices. The macrocyclic lactone-based polymeric coating facilitates the performance of such devices in inhibiting restenosis.

Abstract: Since disruptive forces can be continuously exerted upon a rotor during a pulsatile flow through a pump with a magnetically mounted rotor (permanent magnets and addition control current coils), it is necessary to adjust position i.e. modify axial rotor position very quickly. The control current should only result in small amounts of losses. According to the invention, the current is pulse-width modulated by the control current coils by means of a set value predetermined by a controller which is arranged downstream from a position sensing system. If the set value is high, it is switched to a higher voltage level and the real value of the position sensing system is stored for a defined period of time, respectively beginning with the switching flank of the control current, and the position sensing system is disconnected during said period of time.

Abstract: An intraocular lens is provided that includes an optic body having anterior and posterior walls, a chamber, and optically transmissive primary and secondary fluids, and method for making and using the same. The secondary fluid is substantially immiscible with the primary fluid and has a different density and a different refractive index than the primary fluid. The primary fluid is present in a sufficient amount that orienting optical body optical axis horizontally for far vision positions the optical axis through the primary fluid, thereby immersing the anterior and posterior optical centers in the primary fluid. The secondary fluid is contained in the optic body in a sufficient amount that orienting the optical axis over a range of effective downward angles relative to the horizontal for near vision positions the optical axis to extend through the primary fluid and the secondary fluid, thus changing the focus of the intraocular lens.

Abstract: An optical element is adapted for implantation into a vitreous chamber of an eye, and a suspension system is configured to position a portion of the optical element to intersect a visual axis of an eye.

Abstract: An improved prosthetic implant for forming a rigid structure between adjoining vertebrae in a spinal column. The prosthetic implant includes a cage having a top, bottom, front end, back end, first side and second side walls. The first side wall has an arcuate surface. The top and bottom wall include one or more ridges to engage a surface of an adjacent vertebrae. The top and bottom wall also include an opening to receive packing material such as medicine, human tissue and the like. The top and bottom walls also incline simultaneously in two directions.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disposed for maintaining the proper positioning of a prosthetic implant having proximal and distal ends within a prepared bone cavity during cement injection and curing. First stabilization means, implantable within the bone cavity, minimize lateral movement of the distal end of the implant, while second stabilization means, physically separate from the means for minimizing lateral movement of the distal end of the implant, minimize both the lateral movement of the proximal end of the implant and the rotational movement of the implant overall. In the preferred embodiment, the second stabilization means includes an apertured cap removably securable to the end of a bone having the prepared cavity through which the implant is inserted and held in place.

Abstract: A method of coloring porous material, especially human hair, is described, which method comprises applying to the material being colored, in any desired order successively, or simultaneously, a) at least one capped diazonium compound and b) at least one cationic water-soluble aromatic coupling component, under conditions such that, initially, coupling does not take place, and then causing the capped diazonium compound present on the material to react with the coupling component.

Abstract: Bicyclic 5-5 heteroaromatic compounds having a ring junction nitrogen and incorporating thia or oxa heteroatoms heteroatoms. Compositions for the oxidative dyeing of keratin fibers, comprising a medium suitable for dyeing and one or more bicyclic 5-5 heteroaromatic compounds having a ring junction nitrogen and incorporating thia or oxa heteroatoms heteroatoms. A method for oxidative dyeing of keratin fibers, comprising applying such compositions in the presence of an oxidizing agent, for a period sufficient to develop the desired coloration.

Abstract: A water-in-fuel emulsion composition containing a Fischer-Tropsch derived fuel and water, and its use in a compression ignition engine is provided. Emissions, for example of NOx, black smoke and/or particulate matter, are lower as compared to conventional fuels but without lengthening the ignition delay and reducing the cetane number. This is achieved without the need for, or at reduced levels of, ignition improving additives, and without engine modifications.

Abstract: A method of reducing smoke and particulate emissions from steam boilers and process heaters operating on solid fuel by adding a fuel additive which contains an oil-dispersible iron compound and an over-based magnesium compound to the solid fuel.

Abstract: A method for gasifying carbonaceous materials to fuel gases comprises the formation of an ultra-superheated steam (USS) composition substantially containing water vapor, carbon dioxide and highly reactive free radicals thereof, at a temperature of about 2400° F. (1316° C.) to about 5000° F. (2760° C.). The USS composition comprising a high temperature clear, colorless flame is contacted with a carbonaceous material for rapid gasification/reforming thereof. The need for significant superstoichiometric steam addition for temperature control. Methods for controlling a gasification/reforming system to enhance efficiency are described. A USS burner for a fluidized bed gasification/reforming reactor, and methods of construction, are described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the manufacture and use of novel pre-coated abrasive particles and particle slurries for the chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) of semiconductor wafers, thin films, inter-layer dielectric, metals, and other components during integrated circuit, flat panel display, or MEMS manufacturing. For example, polishing slurry abrasive particles can be pre-coated with additives, such as, inhibitors and/or surfactants during manufacture of the abrasive particles or slurry. The additive's opportunity to react directly with the abrasive particles early in the particle manufacturing process provides a slurry having a more stable, selectable, and predictable ratio of abrasive particles pre-coated with a more stable, selectable, and predictable amount and type of additives.

Abstract: In a process for the reduction of a metalliferous ore or concentrate the ore or concentrate is first prepared into a particulate form. A reaction chamber (3, 103, 203, 301, 401, 503, 603, 702) is then charged with ore or concentrate, a reductant and an input gas. The reaction chamber (3, 103, 203, 301, 401, 503, 603, 702) is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation within a frequency range of 30 MHz to 300 GHz until a non-equilibrium plasma is initiated. The plasma is sustained and controlled with the radiation until the ore or concentrate is reduced to form reduction product.

Abstract: The invention provides a water-based low VOC shoe and leather care product having good product properties and characteristics, which can be formulated by making an appropriate and careful selection of ingredients and their amounts. A shoe and leather care product according to the invention has been found to give results in the treatment of leather (shoes) closely resembling the results found when using a conventional, high VOC shoe care product. Furthermore, such favourable results can be achieved while significantly reducing the amount of organic solvents in the product.

Abstract: Improved eradicating fluids and eradicable inks are disclosed. A color changing eradicating fluid is disclosed which includes a volatile base, a pH sensitive dye and an eradicating agent whereby the dye changes color as the volatile base evaporates thereby provided a visual indication to the user when the eradicating fluid is sufficiently dry and ready to receive a corrected marking. A non-color changing eradicating fluid having a more moderate pH is also disclosed. The combination eradicable and re-write ink is disclosed which features phosphoric acid (or phosphorus pentoxide in solution) along with an eradicable dye. A combination writing and correction instrument that combines a disclosed eradicating fluid and a combination eradicable and re-write ink is also disclosed.

Abstract: An ink composition includes a colorant, a solvent, and an amine alcohol compound represented by formula I in which n is an integer and 0?n?9.

Abstract: A water-color ink with which a high print quality can be obtained on ordinary paper, recycled paper or coated paper, and which has excellent storage stability. The water-color ink includes at least a color material and 2-butyl-2-ethyl-1,3-propanediol.

Abstract: Ready-to-use water dispersible pigment compositions containing water-insoluble, hydrophilic pigments are provided. The compositions comprise a stable dispersion of the pigment such as a porphyrin pigment, carmine, curcumin and a caratenoid in the form of bodies of an average size which is at the most 10 ?m is provided. The pigment bodies are dispersed without he use of a surface active substance in an aqueous phase comprising a hydrocolloid. The natural pigment compositions which are useful for coloring of food products and pharmaceuticals do not migrate in the products and they are acid stable. The compositions are useful in coating compositions for tables and dragees.

Abstract: The invention relates to a geopolymeric cement or binder comprising an amorphous vitreous matrix consisting of a poly(sialate-disiloxo)-type geopolymeric compound, having approximation formula (Na, K, Ca)(—Si—O—Al—O—Si—O—Si—O) or (Na, K, Ca)-PSDS. The inventive cement consists of a mixture of different varieties of polysialates in which the atomic ratio Si:Al varies between 2 and 5.5, the average of the Si:Al atomic ratio values as measured with the electronic microprobe being close to between 2.8 and 3. The remaining components of the geopolymeric cement or binder, such as mellilite particles, aluminosilicate particles and quartz particles, are not used in said Si:Al atomic ratio calculation. The geopolymeric structure of type (K, Ca)-Poly(sialate-disiloxo) (K, Ca)-PSDS is between 50% and 60% more mechanically resistant than that of type (K, Ca)-Poly(sialate-siloxo) (K, Ca)—PSS of the prior art.

Abstract: Cement compositions that include improved lost circulation materials are provided. In certain exemplary embodiments, the improved lost circulation materials include inelastic particles of polyethylene, polystyrene, and/or polypropylene. Optionally, the cement compositions also may include additives such as fly ash, a surfactant, a dispersant, a fluid loss control additive, a conventional lost circulation material, an accelerator, a retarder, a salt, a mica, fiber, a formation-conditioning agent, fumed silica, bentonite, expanding additives, microspheres, weighting materials, or a defoamer.

Abstract: Provided is an excellent p-type nitride type 3-5 group compound semiconductor having escellent electrical properties such as a low contact resistance to an electrode metal, a low ohmic property, etc., by heat-treating a nitride type 3-5 group compound semiconductor doped with p-type dopant in an hydrogen-containing gas atmosphere of a specific concentration.