Abstract: A method for implanting an electrical stimulation lead into a patient includes inserting an elongated sheath into a patient. The sheath includes a sheath body with a proximal end and a distal tip. The sheath defines a lumen extending from the proximal end of the sheath to the distal tip. The distal tip of the sheath is advanced to the patient's epidural space. The distal tip of the sheath is positioned at a target implantation location. A lead is advanced along the lumen of the sheath from the proximal end of the sheath body to the distal tip. The lead includes a lead body and a plurality of electrodes disposed along a distal end of the lead body. The sheath is removed from the patient while leaving the distal end of the lead at the target implantation location.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cuff electrode assembly for implantation on a target nerve. The cuff electrode assembly can include a resilient cuff body configured to be disposed about the target nerve. The cuff body includes a first end portion having a first free end, and a second end portion having a second free end. The cuff electrode assembly further includes a first arm member and a second arm member each projecting radially outward from the cuff body and spaced from one another along the cuff body. The cuff body can be configured such that a force applied to urge the first and second arm members toward one another defines an open configuration of the cuff body configured to allow the cuff body to be positioned around the target nerve. The cuff electrode assembly further includes an electrode oriented to provide electrical stimuli to the target nerve.

Abstract: An external pacemaker with at least one electrode temporarily connectable to the heart, and at the distal end of which is an active region, which makes contact with heart tissue, and at the proximal end is a contact plug. The electrode is for transmission of stimulation, defibrillation, and/or cardioversion pulses and is plugged into a pacemaker plug socket. The contact plug has first and second contact regions at its plug part. The plug socket matches the contact plug with two mating contacts, the first for transmitting stimulation pulses and the second for transmitting defibrillation and/or cardioversion pulses. In the plugged-in position, only the contact region on the plug part makes contact with the mating contact provided for transmitting the defibrillation and/or cardioversion pulses, such that no defibrillation and/or cardioversion pulse can be transmitted to electrodes which are unsuitable for defibrillation and/or cardioversion and have only a single-stage contact plug.

Abstract: A tine portion of an implantable medical device includes a hook segment and a distal segment extending therefrom, wherein the hook segment is pre-set to extend along a curvature and is elastically deformable therefrom to an open position. The distal segment includes a tooth and an end that surrounds the tooth, wherein the end includes a pair of legs and a distal arch. The legs extend along a length of, and on opposing sides of the tooth, and the distal arch extends between the legs, distal to a tissue-piercing tip of the tooth. When the hook segment is in the open position, and a force is applied along a longitudinal axis of the device, to push the distal arch of the distal segment against tissue, for initial tissue penetration, the legs of the end of the distal segment bend in elastic deformation to expose the tissue-piercing tip to the tissue.

Abstract: A tool of an interventional medical systems system includes a core configured to be temporarily attached to the implantable medical device, as the tool deploys the device to expose a fixation member of the device for engagement with tissue at a target implant site; the core is then employed to verify adequate fixation of the deployed device via a tug test. An operator determines that the device is adequately fixed by the engaged fixation member, if a tug force that is applied to the core modifies the temporary attachment between the core and the device, to allow release of the device from the temporary attachment. A tether, which is fixedly attached to the core, may be employed to create the temporary attachment between the core and the device, or the temporary attachment may be created by a snap fit formed between the core and the attachment structure of the device.

Abstract: An implantable epicardial electrode assembly comprises electrode poles fixed on the heart having a large surface area and being multipolar and can at the same time be used as sensing and stimulating electrodes, wherein the electrode assembly has the shape of a tennis racket or is circular, elliptical, hexagonal, rectangular, oakleaf-shaped, star-shaped or cloverleaf-shaped and comprises at least two electrode poles which are arranged over a large surface area, and a further electrode arrangement which comprises at least one electrode pole and which is arranged between the large surface area electrode poles and further comprises a fixing element, wherein the defibrillation can take place between the mutually insulated poles of the electrodes, and wherein the stimulation of the heart can take place between one of the electrode poles and a pole of the electrode arrangement.

Abstract: An electrical living body stimulation signal waveform generation device includes a waveform generation unit that generates a low-frequency pulse signal wave and a high-frequency signal wave individually, and a waveform synthesis circuit that superimposes the high-frequency signal wave on the low-frequency pulse signal wave during an ON period of the low-frequency pulse signal wave to form a synthesized wave having a waveform in which a level gradually rises from a point of time when the superimposition is started and the ON period and an OFF period are continuously repeated, wherein the synthesized wave is given as an electrical stimulus to a living body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a seating apparatus for the diagnosis and treatment, and more particularly, to a seating apparatus for diagnosis and treatment of diagnosing and curing urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and defecation disorders which enables to diagnose symptoms of urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and defecation disorders by measuring contraction pressure and contraction duration of pelvic floor muscles, muscles of perineum and anal sphincters of a user, who puts on cloth while seated, simultaneously with curing symptoms of urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and defecation disorders throughout biofeedback exercise and training.

Abstract: Provided is a neural device including a nanowire and a support layer. Further, provided is a neural device including: a substrate, at least one nanowire which is fixed on the substrate at a lengthwise end thereof to extend vertically and inserted into nerves to obtain electrical signals from nerve fibers or apply electrical signals to the nerve fibers; and a support layer which is formed on the substrate and which surrounds and supports at least one portion of the nanowire.

Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 100 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address upper extremity pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.

Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 100 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region to address pelvic pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of treating movement disorders of a living being, a method of treating refractory gait disturbances of a human Parkinson's disease patient being affected by gait disturbances, and an apparatus for deep brain stimulation (DBS) of a living being affected by movement disorders.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treating anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, bronchial constriction, and/or asthma include providing an electrical impulse to a selected region of the vagus nerve of a patient suffering from anaphylaxis to block and/or modulate nerve signals that would regulate the function of, for example, myocardial tissue, vasodilation/constriction and/or pulmonary tissue.

Abstract: Improved neuromodulation control of neurological abnormalities associated with effector organs in vertebrate beings using direct current stimulation for modulating spinal cord excitability, having a peripheral-current supplying component for providing direct current peripheral nerve stimulation and a spinal-current supplying component providing direct current for spinal stimulation, and a controller managing such functions.

Abstract: Delivery of an implantable wireless receiver-stimulator (R-S) into the heart using delivery catheter is described. R-S comprises a cathode and an anode and wirelessly receives and converts energy, such as acoustic ultrasound energy, to electrical energy to stimulate the heart. Conductive wires routed through the delivery system temporarily connect R-S electrodes to external monitor and pacing controller. R-S comprises a first temporary electrical connection from the catheter to the cathode, and a second temporary electrical connection from the catheter to the anode. Temporary electrical connections allow external monitoring of heart's electrical activity as sensed by R-S electrodes to determine tissue viability for excitation as well as to assess energy conversion efficiency.

Abstract: An active implantable medical device includes digital processor circuits configured to sense right and left atrial depolarizations and deliver left atrial stimulation pulses according to a stimulation protocol. The stimulation protocol includes delivering a left atrial stimulation pulse at an inter-atrial coupling interval. The inter-atrial coupling interval is a coupling interval shorter than the sinus rhythm coupling interval, so as to deliver a premature pulse. The protocol further includes delivering a not premature left-atrial stimulation pulse during an immediately subsequent cardiac cycle, at an inter-atrial coupling interval corresponding to the sinus rhythm coupling interval. The protocol also includes assessing the right atrial coupling interval between the right atrial depolarizations and comparing the right atrial coupling interval to the sinus rhythm coupling interval. And finally, modifying an adjustable controlling parameters if necessary according to the result of the comparison.

Abstract: Miniature implantable stimulators (i.e., microstimulators) are capable of producing unidirectionally propagating action potentials (UPAPs). The methods and configurations described may, for instance, arrest action potentials traveling in one direction, arrest action potentials of small diameters nerve fibers, arrest action potentials of large diameter nerve fibers. These methods and systems may limit side effects of bidirectional and/or less targeted stimulation.

Abstract: An implantable medical device, IMD, comprises atrial and ventricular sensing units for sensing atrial or ventricular electric events. The IMD also comprises atrial and ventricular pulse generators for generating atrial or ventricular pacing pulses. A controller controls the operation of the IMD (100) according to a first mode, in which the ventricular pulse generator is prevented from generating a back-up pulse if an evoked response detector fails to detect evoked response to a delivered ventricular pacing pulse, and a second mode, in which the ventricular pulse generator is controlled to generate a back-up pulse if no evoked response is detected following delivery of a ventricular stimulating pulse. The controller switches operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the evoked response detector failing to detect an evoked response to a delivered ventricular pacing pulse.

Abstract: An implantable active medical device includes a hermetic housing defining an exterior surface and a hermetic cavity of an implantable active medical device. The hermetic housing has a first major surface, an opposing second major surface and a side surface extending between them. An elongate lead connector is recessed into the first major surface. The elongate lead connector has a top surface and a bottom surface and a side surface extending between them. The top surface forms only a portion of the first major surface.

Abstract: This disclosure provides an implantable medical device comprising a power source a therapy module that includes at least one energy storage component, and a charging module coupled between the power source and the therapy module. The charging module is configured to control charging of the at least one energy storage component of the therapy module. The charging module may be further configured to detect a condition indicative of improper charging, to detect a condition indicative of the implantable medical device being subjected to fields generated by an magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, and to terminate charging of the at least one energy storage component when both the condition indicative of improper charging and the condition indicative of the implantable medical device being subjected to fields generated by the MRI device are detected.

Abstract: Electrical circuit componentry is switchable into a defibrillator circuit to deliver a constant pacing current to a patient. The circuitry may include a constant current source inserted in a leg of the defibrillator circuit or a resistor of selected value inserted between a high voltage source and the high side of a defibrillator circuit.

Abstract: A wearable treatment device includes a cardiac sensing electrode, a treatment electrode, a user interface, and a sensor. The cardiac sensing electrode detects cardiac information, and the treatment electrode applies treatment to a subject. The user interface receives quality of life information from the subject, and the sensor detects subject activity and wellness information. A controller coupled with the cardiac sensing electrode, the treatment electrode, the user interface, and the sensor receives the detected cardiac information, the quality of life information, and the detected subject activity and wellness information, and determines that treatment is to be applied to the body of the subject based upon the detected cardiac to information. The controller can adjust the treatment based on at least one of the detected subject activity and wellness information and the quality of life information.

Abstract: The system and method provide for electrocardiogram analysis and optimization of patient-customized cardiopulmonary resuscitation and therapy delivery. An external medical device includes a housing and a processor within the housing. The processor can be configured to receive an input signal for a patient receiving chest compressions and to select at least one filter mechanism and to apply the filter mechanism to the signal to at least substantially remove chest compression artifacts from the signal. A real time dynamic analysis of a cardiac rhythm is applied to adjust and integrate CPR prompting of a medical device. Real-time cardiac rhythm quality is facilitated using a rhythm assessment meter.

Abstract: An eye-wear borne electromagnetic radiation refractive therapy system can comprise an electromagnetic radiation source comprising a ring of LEDs that directs one of its on axis or off axis electromagnetic radiation to a desired peripheral retina area of a wearer's eye; a power source for powering the LEDs, an antenna for receiving signals and a processor for controlling the LEDs; wherein the electromagnetic radiation source includes spectral characteristics similar to outdoor light.

Abstract: According to one general aspect, there is an double-balloon breast brachytherapy catheter comprising, an outer-balloon that is filled with a liquid substance or air via an out-balloon-filler; an inner-balloon that is filled with a liquid substance or air via an inner-balloon-filler, wherein the inner-balloon is inserted inside the outer-balloon; a plurality of radiation-tubes connected to an outside boarder of the inner balloon; a vacuum-tube that is wrapped around an exterior of the outer-balloon, wherein the vacuum tube is used to remove human fluids and air to create a void; and a flexible-shaft is connected to an upper-head, a proximal-tail and a distal-tip, wherein the upper-head is covered by the outer-balloon, the inner-balloon, the plurality of radiation-tubes and the vacuum-tube.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for positioning a radiation source with respect to one or more regions of interest in a coordinate system. Such systems and methods may be used in emission guided radiation therapy (EGRT) for the localized delivery of radiation to one or more patient tumor regions. These systems comprise a gantry movable about a patient area, where a plurality of positron emission detectors, a radiation source are arranged movably on the gantry, and a controller. The controller is configured to identify a coincident positron annihilation emission path and to position the radiation source to apply a radiation beam along the identified emission path. The systems and methods described herein can be used alone or in conjunction with surgery, chemotherapy, and/or brachytherapy for the treatment of tumors.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses are provided for targeting diseased tissue with a radiation beam. One system includes an imaging element configured to generate a first observation of an object, the first observation generated at a first time, the object associated with a volume of interest (VOI), the VOI comprising a volume within a body of a patient. The system further includes one or more processors configured to determine a first positioning of the VOI based at least in part on the first observation of the object determine a second time for the imaging element based at least in part on a positioning parameter associated with the first positioning of the VOI, and generate a second observation of the object at the second time.

Abstract: A method and device for real-time mechanical and dosimetric quality assurance measurements in radiation therapy provides a unified measurement of mechanical motion and radiation components of the machine. The device includes an imaging surface for receiving multiple energy sources. The imaging surface has an imaging plane positioned on a same plane as an isocenter of a medical accelerator. A camera measures and records data related to the multiple energy sources. A mirror system can be used to direct the multiple energy sources to the camera for further processing. However, in some instances the mirror system may not be necessary. The device can also include computer control in order to automate the movement of the device and/or automation of the QA protocol. The device can also be used in executing a method for assessing gantry and collimator rotation.

Abstract: A charged hadron therapy system for delivering charged hadron radiation to a target is provided. The system comprises a target positioning couch for supporting the target being moveable along a translation direction and a beam delivery system comprising a beam scanning means for scanning a hadron pencil beam over said target in a first scanning direction and a second scanning direction being substantially parallel with the translation direction. The beam scanning means is limited for providing a maximum scanning amplitude AY in the second scanning direction. The system comprises an irradiation controller configured for simultaneously and synchronously performing the moving of the couch and the scanning, so as to deliver charged hadron radiation to a target over a target size being larger in the Y direction than the maximum scanning amplitude AY.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses for providing particle beams for radiation therapy with a compact design and suitable to a single treatment room. The radiation system comprises a stationary cyclotron coupled to a rotating gantry assembly through a beam line assembly. The system is equipped with a single set of dipole magnets that are installed on the rotating gantry assembly and undertakes the dual functions of beam energy selection and beam deflection. The energy degrader may be exposed to the air pressure. The beam line assembly comprises a rotating segment and a stationary segment that are separated from each other through an intermediate segment that is exposed to an ambient pressure.

Abstract: A proton beam delivery system including a proton beam nozzle to emit a proton beam to a targeted region of a patient, a gantry wheel to support the proton beam nozzle, the gantry wheel being configured to rotate the proton beam nozzle about a rotation axis of the gantry wheel such that the proton beam nozzle emits the proton beam to an isocenter of the gantry wheel corresponding to the targeted region, a beamline deflector configured to be rotated by the gantry wheel to transport the proton beam along a curvilinear path from the rotation axis to the proton beam nozzle using a predetermined power setting of the beamline deflector, and a rigid support structure to support the beamline deflector when the gantry wheel is rotated such that the beam nozzle directs the proton beam to the isocenter from a plurality of radial directions using the same predetermined power setting.

Abstract: Methods for non-invasive fat reduction can include targeting a region of interest below a surface of skin, which contains fat and delivering ultrasound energy to the region of interest. The ultrasound energy generates a thermal lesion with said ultrasound energy on a fat cell. The lesion can create an opening in the surface of the fat cell, which allows the draining of a fluid out of the fat cell and through the opening. In addition, by applying ultrasound energy to fat cells to increase the temperature to between 43 degrees and 49 degrees, cell apoptosis can be realized, thereby resulting in reduction of fat.

Abstract: A method and system for providing ultrasound treatment to a tissue that contains a lower part of dermis and proximal protrusions of fat lobuli into the dermis. An embodiment delivers ultrasound energy to the region creating a thermal injury and coagulating the proximal protrusions of fat lobuli, thereby eliminating the fat protrusions into the dermis. An embodiment can also include ultrasound imaging configurations using the same or a separate probe before, after or during the treatment. In addition various therapeutic levels of ultrasound can be used to increase the speed at which fat metabolizes. Additionally the mechanical action of ultrasound physically breaks fat cell clusters and stretches the fibrous bonds. Mechanical action will also enhance lymphatic drainage, stimulating the evacuation of fat decay products.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to systems and methods for determining end of service life for a respirator cartridge by comparing the gas levels sensed at two or more sample points within the cartridge. Sample streams may run from the sample points to a gas sensor, wherein a valve may control the flow between the sample streams and the gas sensor.

Abstract: A fall arresting system is provided that includes a fall arresting cable that has a safety line with opposed first and second ends, an accessory line that extends substantially along the safety line between the opposed first and second ends of the safety line, and a sheath that envelops the safety line and the accessory line. The fall arresting system further includes a reel upon which the fall arrest cable is wound.

Abstract: A fire curtain assembly is presented that is collapsible for easy transport and quickly and easily assembled for use. This system includes a panel having a plurality of support members positioned in approximate parallel spaced alignment to one another across the panel. The support members have a center section and opposing end sections that selectively connect to the center section thereby forming rigid supports across the panel. End sections have a handle member that connects to a pushrod having a locking pin connected to its end. The locking pin selectively engages and disengages the center section. The handle members have detents that fit within detent sockets thereby holding the handle members in a withdrawn position or an inserted position.

Abstract: A solid propellant gas generator releases a flowing mixture from a solid propellant, separated from a surrounding area, into the surrounding area. The solid propellant gas generator includes a cooling system for cooling the flowing mixture. The cooling system has at least one feed device for feeding a gas from the surrounding area to the flowing mixture in order to mix the flowing mixture prior to entering into the surrounding area with the gas from the surrounding area.

Abstract: A method of fire suppression may include injecting a reactive agent into a reaction zone to produce a catalytically active species for fire suppression and conveying the catalytically active species to a fire to catalytically interfere with flame chemistry of the fire. Fire in a fuel tank may be suppressed by injecting the reactive agent into a convective flow of a mixture of fuel and oxidizer in a fuel tank, the reactive agent reacting in the fuel tank to release a species which catalytically interferes with flame chemistry to suppress fire in the fuel tank. Fire at an airplane crash may be suppressed by releasing the reactive agent from the container at the crash site to produce an active species to catalytically interfere with a fire at the crash site.

Abstract: A star-shaped hyperbranched polymer with a triethanolamine core, a carboxylate lateral group and a dithiocarboxylate end group has a formula of N[CH2CH2OCOCH2CH2(COOM)N(CSSM)CH2CH2N(CSSM)2]3, wherein M is Na+, NH4+ or K+. The star-shaped hyperbranched polymer has an effectively stabilization effect on heavy metals in MSWI fly ash. A method thereof for stabilizing is simple, low in dosage, cheap and without secondary pollution. Therefore, heavy metals leaching concentration in fly ash stabilized production is lower than a limit of Chinese national standard. Furthermore, acid and alkali resistance thereof is sufficient, which decreases a long-term pollution risk in natural environment.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of detoxifying asbestos by using a room-temperature recrystallization scheme. The method includes heat-treating a rock or slate containing asbestos; and putting the heat-treated rock or slate in an aqueous solution, to which organic acid is added, to allow the heat-treated rock or slate to react with the aqueous solution having the organic acid.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a system for treating wastestream, particularly a liquid or aqueous radwaste, for safe disposal and, in final processing, converting it into one or both forms including an aqueous form for safe discharge to the environment and a solidified form for safe disposal. Another aspect provides the capacity to employ a step where a specific target element strategy can be set up synchronizing sorbent substance choices and multiple recycle options to remove target substances from wastestream as a part of its Sorption or Powder Sorbent Isotopic Reduction step (II). Other steps cooperate with Sorption step (II) including Oxidation (I) to inactivate or destroy existing chelants, Solid-Liquid separation (III), and Selective Ion Exchange (IV) to deliver the wastestream to final processing. Still further aspects of the invention address the recovery and safe handling of substances such as C-14.

Abstract: A trampoline includes a trampoline frame and trampoline bed. The trampoline frame is connected to springs and the springs in turn support the trampoline bed. A trampoline enclosure has enclosure poles. An inflatable ring is formed around the trampoline frame. Inflatable posts are attached to the enclosure poles. The trampoline enclosure has enclosure poles that enclose at least a portion of the inflatable ring. The inflatable ring is anchored by an anchor, and the anchor is formed as a fluid chamber configured to retain fluid. The anchor is configured to rest on a ground surface. The anchor can connect to a distal side or a bottom surface of the inflatable ring. The inflatable ring can be formed as a trampoline pad that is configured to cover the springs. Entrance panel is configured for releasable sealing.

Abstract: A pivotal vibration apparatus comprising a vibration platform, a displacement assembly having an eccentric shaft rotatable to provide a displacement force, a link connecting the displacement assembly to the vibration platform to transfer the displacement thereto and an adjustment mechanism to adjust the amplitude of the displacement force transmitted to the vibration platform in a continuous fashion.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is mechanically engaged with an electrical current producer so that exercise by a person using the apparatus produces output power which is used at the time of exercising or saved for later use. A motor provides additional drive force by rotating a rotor engaged with the apparatus, the rotor operating by magnetic attraction and repulsion depending on relative positions of permanent magnets on the rotor and electromagnets on a stator. The apparatus is light in weight, low cost to produce and highly durable.

Abstract: A Pilates machine tension device support system for efficiently providing a tension force to a movable platform of an exercise machine. The Pilates machine tension device support system generally includes a frame, a platform movably positioned upon the frame and a tension assembly connected between the frame and the platform to provide selective tension upon the platform in a first direction. The tension assembly is comprised of a plurality of pulleys and a plurality of tension devices positioned upon the pulleys, wherein the tension devices are attached between a frame and the platform. The tension members are selectively engaged to the platform to increase or decrease the tension applied to the platform for varying levels of workouts.

Abstract: A technique plate is usable to engage in various exercise activities, such as weightlifting movements. The technique plate may include various elements, such as a weight amount and a diameter, which is consistent with Olympic-weightlifting standards.

Abstract: An exercise device comprising a base frame comprising one or more belt members, a front axle configured to interface with one of the belt members, a rear axle configured to interface with one of the belt members and an adjustable support disposed on one side of the base.

Abstract: An exercise assembly comprises a frame and elongated foot pedal members that are each movable along user-defined paths of differing dimensions. Each foot pedal member has a front portion and a rear portion. Footpads are disposed on the rear portion of one of the pair of foot pedal members. Elongated coupler arms have a lower portion and an upper portion that is pivotally connected to the frame. Crank members have a first portion that is pivotally connected to the front portion of one of the pair of foot pedal members and have a second portion that is pivotally connected to the lower portion of one of the pair of coupler arms, such that each crank member is rotatable in a circular path. Elongated rocker arms have a lower portion that is pivotally connected to one of the pair of foot pedal members in between the foot pad and the crank member and have an upper portion that is pivotally connected to the frame.

Abstract: The present disclosure in an embodiment provides a portable exercise apparatus. The portable exercise apparatus comprises a bar having a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis. Further, the portable exercise apparatus comprises two frame members. Each frame member comprises a groove on top, coupled to the bar such that the bar rests on the two frame members along the longitudinal axis of the bar and on the grooves of the two frame members. The two frame members are opposite to each other at each end of the bar. Further, each frame member is coupled to a pair of wheels at a bottom portion of each frame member. Further, the bar has a grip portion, between the first end and the second end, to support stresses perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bar.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device is disclosed. The exercise device can include a flexible substrate having a first end and a second end. At least one of the first end and the second end can be configured to move with respect to each other. The exercise device can also include a curved portion between the first end and the second end. The curved portion can be configured to flex upon application of a force to the flexible substrate.