Patents Issued in May 17, 2016
  • Patent number: 9339194
    Abstract: In medical imaging, a fiducial marker facilitates tissue image correlation that allows for image analysis, normalization and correction of the optical exposure and spectral and spatial distribution in order to compensate for the surface reflections, sub surface tissue interactions and spatial orientation of the excitation and imaging axes to the subject tissue. Using a cross comparison, clinicians can model tissue image data in different forms in order to reference and compare data from various spectral components and or from different images. This may enhance human interpretation between images including the variations between images even when the spectral, spatial and optical conditions or the image resolution or sensitivity are compromised. Such may be used to assess cosmetic, moisturizing, therapeutic materials and treatments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Cernoval, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Adams
  • Patent number: 9339195
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for detecting seizure symptoms in an individual 102. A sensor module 202 receives physiological data for an individual 102 from one or more sensors 110, 112, such as a heart activity sensor. A feature detection module 204 detects a predefined feature 500, 520, 530, 540 in the physiological data. The predefined feature 500, 520, 530, 540 is associated with a seizure or another medical condition. An alert module 206 broadcasts an alert in response to the feature detection module 204 detecting the predefined feature 500, 520, 530, 540.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: RESEARCH TRIANGLE INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Ann Pitruzzello, Barbara Kroner, Jamie Shorey, David C Strube
  • Patent number: 9339196
    Abstract: The invention presents a non-invasive method and device of measuring the real-time continuous pressure of fluid fluctuating in an elastic tube and the dynamic compliance of the elastic tube, in which the theory of VLDT (Vascular Loading Decoupling Technique) is used. After searching the initial critical depth and determining the decoupled ratio, a DC controller generates a DC control gain to maintain the elastic tube at critical depth, and an AC controller employs the self-adaptive and Step-Hold control rules to create the pulsation of elastic tube without effect of surrounding tissues, and be capable of measuring the real-time continuous fluid pressure and dynamic compliance of elastic tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Gong Bu Design Company
    Inventor: Albert Chin-Yuh Lin
  • Patent number: 9339197
    Abstract: In one example, this disclosure is directed to a kit for intravascular implantation of an implantable medical device within a patient, the kit comprising an elongated outer sheath forming an inner lumen with a distal opening, the outer sheath sized to traverse a vasculature of the patient, and an elongated inner sheath with an inflatable member at its distal portion. The inflatable member is inflatable from a proximal end of the inner sheath to close-off the distal opening of the outer sheath when inflated. The inner sheath further includes a stopper proximally located relative to the inflatable member. The inflatable member is remotely controllable from a proximal end of the inner sheath to retract in a proximal direction towards the stopper. The inflatable member can be retracted in a proximal direction towards the stopper and past an implantable medical device positioned within a distal portion of the outer sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Erik C. Griswold, Rudolph A. Beasley, James Calvin Allan, Suruchi Anand, Martha A. Barajas-Torres, Matthew S. Poole, Arvind K. Srinivas, Steven L. Waldhauser, William Berthiaume
  • Patent number: 9339198
    Abstract: The invention relates to headphones and a method for listening to music or some other audio signal, which headphones comprise at least one sound source such as a an earphone to be placed in the vicinity of the ear, for producing sound, and a galvanic conductor for feeding an electrical signal from a signal source, such as a music player or similar, to the sound source. In accordance with the invention at least one sound source is equipped with means for measuring heart rate, as well as means for forwarding heart-rate information wirelessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Suunto Oy
    Inventor: Erik Lindman
  • Patent number: 9339199
    Abstract: A physiological signal detection device has a battery disposed in the physiological signal detection device, a first input terminal, a second input terminal, and a charging detection terminal A physiological signal detection circuit generates a physiological signal according to a detection result of the first input terminal and the second input terminal A charging control circuit is electrically coupled to the first input terminal, the second input terminal and the charging detection terminal, wherein, when the first input terminal and the second input terminal are coupled to a power supply supplied by a charging device, the charging detection terminal receives a charging indication signal of the charging device and according to the charging indication signal the charging device is enabled so as to charge the battery with the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: QUANTA COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Chih-Hsiung Yu, Yung-Ming Chung, Chih-Hsiung Chang
  • Patent number: 9339200
    Abstract: Embodiments include a system for determining cardiovascular information for a patient which may include at least one computer system configured to receive patient-specific data regarding a geometry of an anatomical structure of a patient; create a model representing at least a portion of the anatomical structure; create a physics-based model relating to a blood flow characteristic within the anatomical structure; determine a first blood flow rate at at least one point of interest in the model; modify the model; determine a second blood flow rate at a point in the modified model corresponding to the at least one point of interest in the model; and determine a fractional flow reserve value as a ratio of the second blood flow rate to the first blood flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: HeartFlow, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy A. Fonte
  • Patent number: 9339201
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved, Internet-based system that seamlessly collects cardiovascular data from a patient before, during, and after a procedure for EP or an ID. During an EP procedure, the system collects information describing the patient's response to PES and the ablation process, ECG waveforms and their various features, HR and other vital signs, HR variability, cardiac arrhythmias, patient demographics, and patient outcomes. Once these data are collected, the system stores them on an Internet-accessible computer system that can deploy a collection of user-selected and custom-developed algorithms. Before and after the procedure, the system also integrates with body-worn and/or programmers that interrogate implanted devices to collect similar data while the patient is either ambulatory, or in a clinic associated with the hospital. A data-collection/storage module, featuring database interface, stores physiological and procedural information measured from the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: TOSENSE, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Banet, Gregory Kent Feld, Marshal Singh Dhillon, Adolfo Meza-Guinea, Susan Meeks Pede, Andrew Terry
  • Patent number: 9339202
    Abstract: Physiological signals such as ECG signals are obtained from a patient. In accordance with one or more embodiments, an apparatus, system and/or method is directed to at least two ECG sensing electrodes that adhere to remote locations on a patient and sense ECG signals from the patient. An amplifier circuit amplifies the sensed ECG signals to provide amplified ECG signals, and a digitizing circuit digitizes the amplified ECG. A computing circuit processes the digitized ECG signals (e.g., by removing noise). A battery powers the aforesaid circuits, and a housing houses the battery and aforesaid circuit. A fastener mechanically fastens and electrically couples the housing to one of the electrodes, and the other electrodes are coupled to the amplifier via a flexible insulated lead wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: VivaQuant LLC
    Inventors: Marina Brockway, Brian Brockway
  • Patent number: 9339203
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved, Internet-based system that seamlessly collects cardiovascular data from a patient before, during, and after a procedure for EP or an ID. During an EP procedure, the system collects information describing the patient's response to PES and the ablation process, ECG waveforms and their various features, HR and other vital signs, HR variability, cardiac arrhythmias, patient demographics, and patient outcomes. Once these data are collected, the system stores them on an Internet-accessible computer system that can deploy a collection of user-selected and custom-developed algorithms. Before and after the procedure, the system also integrates with body-worn and/or programmers that interrogate implanted devices to collect similar data while the patient is either ambulatory, or in a clinic associated with the hospital. A data-collection/storage module, featuring database interface, stores physiological and procedural information measured from the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: TOSENSE, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Banet, Gregory Kent Feld, Marshal Singh Dhillon, Adolfo Meza-Guinea, Susan Meeks Pede, Andrew Terry
  • Patent number: 9339204
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided to detect subwaveforms of an ECG waveform. Electrical impulses are detected between at least one pair of electrodes of two or more electrodes placed proximate to a beating heart and are converted to an ECG waveform for each heartbeat of the beating heart using the detector. One or more subwaveforms within P, Q, R, S, T, U, and J waveforms of the ECG waveform for each heartbeat or in an interval between the P, Q, R, S, T, U, and J waveforms that represent the depolarization or repolarization of an anatomically distinct portion of muscle tissue of the beating heart are detected using a signal processor. A processed ECG waveform that includes the one or more subwaveforms for each heartbeat is produced using the signal processor. The processed ECG waveform is received from the signal processor is displayed using a display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Guangren Chen
  • Patent number: 9339205
    Abstract: A waveform analyzer includes a converter which converts a logical function, where a pair of data including a time and a value at the time is variable, created according to data sets of a time and a value of a signal waveform at the time into a second function expressed by a binary decision diagram, an acquisition unit which obtains for each of characteristic points of a reference waveform a condition representative of constraints on a relationship between time information specified by the points and a value corresponding to the time information in the signal waveform according to a value of the reference waveform at the points and a specified tolerance given to a value of the reference waveform, and a searching unit which applies the condition for each of the points to the second function to obtain a time range which meets the entirety of the conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Yutaka Tamiya, Hiroaki Iwashita, Hiroyuki Higuchi
  • Patent number: 9339206
    Abstract: An adaptor for endovascular electrocardiography includes a member having two ends and an inner lumen such that when one of the ends is connected to a catheter and the other end is connected to a syringe, fluid from the syringe is flushed into the catheter through the inner lumen. The adaptor also includes a metal insert, disposed along the inner lumen of the member, which connects through a sealed electrical connection to the outer side of the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Bard Access Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Sorin Grunwald
  • Patent number: 9339207
    Abstract: A method for evaluating flow characteristics in a vessel of a patient includes the steps of positioning a catheter having a balloon at a measuring location within the vessel; transmitting an ultrasound signal into the vessel while the balloon catheter is within the measuring location; evaluating a reflection of the ultrasound signal to determine a flow parameter within the vessel while the catheter is in the measuring position; expanding the balloon within the vessel at the measuring location; and stopping the expanding step when the result of the evaluating step is that the flow through the vessel is substantially stopped. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise the step of detecting an endovascular electrogram signal. The method may be designed for evaluating flow characteristics in a vessel of a patient while enabling the prevention of a balloon from over-expanding and/or over-distending a vessel of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: VASONOVA, INC.
    Inventors: Sorin Grunwald, Bradley Hill, E. Tina Cheng
  • Patent number: 9339208
    Abstract: According to various embodiments, methods and systems for determining pressure in the lungs may employ tracheal pressure measurements. The tracheal pressure measurements may be obtained through a pressure monitoring lumen associated with a tracheal tube. Such systems may include a purging or flushing mechanism to keep the pressure monitoring lumen free of any obstructions. The flushing mechanism may utilize fluids delivered through the pressure monitoring lumen at a predetermined point in the breathing cycle and/or at a predetermined pressure relative to the respiratory gases. The resulting pressure measurements may be used to determine a more accurate estimate of lung pressure, which in turn may be used to control a ventilator and provide breathing assistance to a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Lockett E. Wood, Sarah Hayman
  • Patent number: 9339209
    Abstract: The invention provides a system for measuring respiratory rate (RR) from a patient. The system includes an impedance pneumography (IP) sensor, connected to at least two electrodes, and a processing system that receives and processes signals from the electrodes to measure an IP signal. A motion sensor (e.g. an accelerometer) measures at least one motion signal (e.g. an ACC waveform) describing movement of a portion of the patient's body to which it is attached. The processing system receives the IP and motion signals, and processes them to determine, respectfully, frequency-domain IP and motion spectra. Both spectra are then collectively processed to remove motion components from the IP spectrum and determine RR. For example, during the processing, an algorithm determines motion frequency components from the frequency-domain motion spectrum, and then using a digital filter removes these, or parameters calculated therefrom, from the IP spectrum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: SOTERA WIRELESS, INC.
    Inventors: Matt Banet, Marshal Dhillon, Devin McCombie
  • Patent number: 9339210
    Abstract: A device for obtaining a vital sign of a subject despite motion of the subject, in particular for discriminating a vital sign such as a respiratory information signal from noise in a projection based vital signs registration, comprises an interface that receives a set of image frames of a subject. An analysis unit determines the amount of direction changes and/or the time distances between direction changes within a region of interest in a subset of image frames comprising a number of image frames of said set. An evaluation unit determines if said region of interest within said subset of image frames comprises a vital sign information and/or noise by use of the determined amount of direction changes and/or the time distances for said subset of image frames. A processor determines the desired vital sign of the subject from said region of interest within said subset of image frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Gerrit Maria Kersten, Ihor Olehovych Kirenko
  • Patent number: 9339211
    Abstract: The invention provides a multi-sensor system that uses an algorithm based on adaptive filtering to monitor a patient's respiratory rate. The system features an impedance pneumography sensor and a motion sensor (e.g., an accelerometer) configured to attach to the patient's torso and measure therefrom a motion signal. The system further comprises a processing system, configured to operably connect to the impedance pneumography sensor and motion sensor, and to determine a respiration rate value by applying filter parameters obtained from the impedance pneumography sensor signals to the motion sensor signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: SOTERA WIRELESS, INC.
    Inventors: Matt Banet, Marshal Dhillon, Devin McCombie
  • Patent number: 9339212
    Abstract: A bone cutting system is disclosed that supports one or more bone cuts that are aligned relative to a mechanical axis. The system comprises a first bone cutting jig, a second bone cutting jig, a sensored insert, a bone jig adapter shim, and a device having at least two reference surfaces. The sensored insert includes a three-axis accelerometer to measure position, rotation, and tilt and includes a plurality of sensors to measure a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The reference surface device can be an operating table having a first reference surface and a second reference surface that is perpendicular to the first reference surface for referencing the three-axis accelerometer. The bone jig adapter shim can include a tab that fits into a slot of the first or second bone cutting jigs. A remote system receives accelerometer data to calculate offset relative to a mechanical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: ORTHOSENSOR INC
    Inventors: Marc Stein, Martin Roche
  • Patent number: 9339213
    Abstract: Gradually strengthening electric stimulation impulses are sent to the median nerve at the wrist. Thereby an action potential caused on some level of the stimulation signal proceeds along the sensory nerve to the spinal cord, from where the nerve impulse (Hoffmann's reflex) returns via the alpha motor neuron pool along a motor nerve to a muscle and causes the movement of the muscle. This movement is detected by an accelerometer. The intensity of the stimulation signal and the time from the stimulation signal to the motoric response are saved, and by means of these the level of fatigue is evaluated. A device comprises a cuff with two electrodes and a current generator for forming impulses for the electrodes. The cuff can be placed on the wrist such that at least one of the electrodes is on the volar side of the hand at the point of the median nerve. The measuring device further comprises an accelerometer, that is provided to produce a signal, when the accelerometer detects a movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Juno Medical LLC
    Inventors: Katriina Otsamo, Timo Matalalampi
  • Patent number: 9339214
    Abstract: A body movement detection device is provided with a main body, a display unit, and a control unit, the control unit including an ascent/descent method detection unit that detects whether a user who is wearing or carrying the main body is ascending/descending using a lift device, a counting unit that counts the number of times that the user ascends/descends using the lift device and the number of times that the user ascends/descends without using the lift device, based on the detection result of the ascent/descent method detection unit, and a display control unit that causes the display unit to display each of the values counted by the counting unit. The method by which the user ascends/descends can thereby be clearly displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: OMRON HEALTHCARE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yoshitake Oshima
  • Patent number: 9339215
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus for monitoring movement and breathing of two or more subjects occupying common bedding. Particularly, the invention relates to a method for monitoring movement of subjects located in a common bedding, the method comprising the steps of: —imaging the bedding by an optical sensor; —performing a motion estimation by producing motion vectors indicating the local displacement of corresponding image blocks between consecutive images, or images that are several frames apart, received from said optical sensor; —calculating motion clusters by measuring spatial and temporal correlations of the motion vectors; —segmenting the calculated motion clusters by assignment of each motion cluster to a corresponding subject, wherein the assignment of the motion clusters to the corresponding subject is based on the spatial and/or temporal similarity of the motion clusters among each other and on previous segmentation results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Henriette Christine Van Vugt, Adrienne Heinrich
  • Patent number: 9339216
    Abstract: Methods and systems for monitoring or testing the hearing of a user using a portable unit include presenting a plurality of test frequencies for selection by a user and storing data about those frequencies, and the user's response to stimuli presented at those frequencies, and comparing the stored data to previously acquired hearing data. Using mathematical prediction algorithms, changes in baseline hearing values can be used to identify potential hearing issues, especially hearing issues associated with ototoxicity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America As Represented By The Department Of Veterans Affairs
    Inventors: Stephen Fausti, Roger Ellingson, Wendy Helt, Peter Jacobs, Grayson Silaski, Debra Wilmington, Samuel Gordon, Marilyn Dille, Garnett McMillan, Kelly Reavis, Dawn Martin
  • Patent number: 9339217
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods of processing data provided by a transcutaneous or subcutaneous analyte sensor utilizing different algorithms to strike a balance between signal responsiveness accompanied by signal noise and the introduction of error associated with that noise. The methods utilize the strengths of a lag correction algorithm and a smoothing algorithm to optimize the quality and value of the resulting data (glucose concentrations and the rates of change in glucose concentrations) to a continuous glucose monitoring system. Also provided are systems and kits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventors: Wesley Scott Harper, Erwin Satrya Budiman, Kenneth J. Doniger, Gary Alan Hayter
  • Patent number: 9339218
    Abstract: A concentration measuring device having a spot-application region, and a configuration capable of measuring the concentration of an object component in the sample liquid dropped on the spot-application region, the concentration measuring device including: a light irradiation device, which is provided on a side below the spot-application region, for emitting an irradiation light having a wavelength absorbable by a coloring matter in the dropped sample liquid. The irradiation light passes through the spot-application region, thereby the sample liquid dropped on the spot-application region is irradiated with the irradiation light from the side below the spot-application region. As a result, a non-covered region in the spot-application region can be easily found by visual observation. The spot-application region is composed of, for example, a through hole formed on the supporting film and a separation membrane that blocks the through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: HORIBA, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Murata, Takao Minai, Takaaki Yada
  • Patent number: 9339219
    Abstract: Analyte monitoring devices, systems, and methods are provided that relate to: enabling different application features on a data processing device for analyte monitoring devices with different analyte monitoring features; programming analyte monitoring devices in advance; personalizing an analyte monitoring device; graphically representing a remaining insulin level in a user body; and graphically representing analyte measurement related data for on-demand readings; protecting access to feature of an analyte monitoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Fern, Mark P. Jesser, Lynn Dixon, Jai Karan, Charles Wei, Matthew T. Vogel, Timothy S. Gasperak, Kim Cullen, Kim Ladin, Marc B. Taub, Gary A. Hayter
  • Patent number: 9339220
    Abstract: A physiological monitor for determining blood oxygen saturation of a medical patient includes a sensor, a signal processor and a display. The sensor includes at least three light emitting diodes. Each light emitting diode is adapted to emit light of a different wavelength. The sensor also includes a detector, where the detector is adapted to receive light from the three light emitting diodes after being attenuated by tissue. The detector generates an output signal based at least in part upon the received light. The signal processor determines blood oxygen saturation based at least upon the output signal, and the display provides an indication of the blood oxygen saturation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: MASIMO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Marcelo M. Lamego, Mohamed Diab, Walter M. Weber, Ammar Al-Ali, Joe Kiani
  • Patent number: 9339221
    Abstract: Devices and systems have a sensor probe configured to measure tissue oxygen saturation in the intestine or mesentery. The devices and systems can determine the oxygenation state of the entire thickness of the intestine or mesentery. Thus, embodiments of the invention can be applied in diagnosing intestinal ischemia in a patient, as well as in monitoring tissue oxygen saturation of the intestine or mesentery during or after a surgical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: ViOptix, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry C. Heaton, II, Robert E. Lash, Jimmy Jian-min Mao
  • Patent number: 9339222
    Abstract: Systems and methods of use involving sensors having a particle-containing domain are provided for continuous analyte measurement in a host. In some embodiments, a continuous analyte measurement system is configured to be wholly, transcutaneously, intravascularly or extracorporeally implanted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: DexCom, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter C. Simpson, Robert J. Boock, Matthew D. Wightlin, Mark C. Shults
  • Patent number: 9339223
    Abstract: Devices and methods for determining analyte levels are described. The devices and methods allow for the implantation of analyte-monitoring devices, such as glucose monitoring devices, that result in the delivery of a dependable flow of blood to deliver sample to the implanted device. The devices comprise a unique microarchitectural arrangement in the sensor region that allows accurate data to be obtained over long periods of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: DexCom, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. Shults, Stuart J. Updike, Rathbun K. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 9339224
    Abstract: A dosimetry device includes at least one sensor in a housing and a dosimetry processing device with a memory. The dosimetry processing device is coupled to the at least one sensor in the housing. The dosimetry processing device is configured to execute programmed instructions stored in the memory comprising: obtaining readings from the sensor; storing the readings; conducting an analysis of the stored readings to determine an injury risk assessment; and outputting at least one of the conducted analysis of the determined injury risk assessment or the stored readings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignees: Rochester Institute of Technology, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
    Inventors: David A. Borkholder, Gregory T. A. Kovacs, Jeffrey Rogers
  • Patent number: 9339225
    Abstract: Various method embodiments for performing a sweat test include triggering sweating in a test area of a test subject, drying the test area, and applying a test device on the test area. The test device is used to monitor sweat production of individual SGs within the test area to provide test results for each functional SG in the test area. The test results for each functional SG in the test area are recorded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Daniel L. M. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 9339226
    Abstract: Systems and methods for joint replacement are provided. The systems and methods include a surgical orientation device, a reference sensor device, and at least one orthopedic fixture. The surgical orientation device, reference sensor device, and orthopedic fixtures can be used to locate the orientation of an axis in the body, to adjust an orientation of a cutting plane or planes along a bony surface, or otherwise to assist in an orthopedic procedure(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: OrthAlign, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas van der Walt, Charles Shapiro, Matt Ryan, Sean Nash
  • Patent number: 9339227
    Abstract: A method for analysis of the extent of conscious awareness and likelihood of recovery of a patient includes the steps of applying to the patient a sensory stimulus sequence which is typically auditory; carrying out an EEG to generate waveform signals to record changes in the electromagnetic fields generated by the patient's neural activity; using software provided in a processor to process the waveform signals in order to locate waveform peaks, identify the event-related potential (ERP) components obtained in the waveform and to obtain quantitative measures of those components; and using the software to generate and communicate scores indicative of the extent of conscious awareness and likelihood of recovery of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: National Research Council of Canada
    Inventors: Ryan D'arcy, Donald F. Weaver, Sujoy Ghosh Hajra, Careesa Liu, Lauren Sculthorpe-Petley
  • Patent number: 9339228
    Abstract: A thoracic garment for bringing an EM transducer to contact with a thoracic surface area of a wearer. The thoracic garment comprises a front thoracic garment piece and a back thoracic garment piece the front and/or back thoracic garment pieces having EM transducer(s), the front thoracic garment piece having an arrangement of passages formed therein or thereon, a handhold mechanically connected to the front thoracic garment piece, a positioning marker, and a plurality of straps each threaded in the arrangement of passages. The thoracic garment is configured to be adapted by the wearer which uses a first hand to hold the handhold for mounting the front thoracic garment piece against or close to the chest such that the positioning marker is positioned at the predefined position while using a second hand for pulling the straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Sensible Medical Innovations Ltd.
    Inventors: Amir Saroka, Leonid Voshin, Ofer Karp, Shlomi Bergida
  • Patent number: 9339229
    Abstract: On-body units are provided and include a transcutaneous analyte sensor, electronic circuitry electrically coupled to the sensor, and an on-body housing having electrical contacts disposed thereon. The on-body housing comprises a substantially flat surface and a curved and convex surface opposite the substantially flat surface. Systems and methods including the on-body units are also provided. Methods for performing continuity measurements using on-body units are also provided. The methods include positioning an on-body unit (OBU) on a skin of a subject, contacting a continuity test instrument to the OBU; and performing a continuity measurement with the continuity test instrument. An AC signal may be provided across two electrical contacts, or a DC signal may be provided across two electrical contacts in opposite directions for the same amount of time. The measurement may be performed with one electrical contact, or with isolated electrical contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Abbott Diabetes Care Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel M. Bernstein
  • Patent number: 9339230
    Abstract: Valve aperture sizing devices and methods. In an exemplary method to size a valve aperture, the method comprises introducing at least part of a first device into a luminal organ at a valve aperture, the first device having a balloon positioned thereon, inflating the balloon within the valve aperture until a point of apposition is achieved, and obtaining a first valve aperture measurement based upon the point of apposition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: 3DT Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Ghassan S. Kassab
  • Patent number: 9339231
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described for subject rehospitalization management. In an example, multiple physiologic signals can be obtained from a subject using multiple sensors. In response to a hospitalization event, pre-hospitalization characteristics of the multiple physiologic signals can be identified. Post-hospitalization characteristics of the multiple physiologic signals can be identified, including characteristics that differ from their corresponding pre-hospitalization characteristics. Later subsequent physiologic signals can be further monitored after the hospitalization event, such as using the same multiple sensors, and subsequent physiologic signal characteristics can be identified. In an example, a heart failure diagnostic indication can be determined using information about the pre-hospitalization characteristics, the post-hospitalization characteristics, and the subsequent characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Pramodsingh Hirasingh Thakur, Qi An, Barun Maskara, Julie A. Thompson
  • Patent number: 9339232
    Abstract: A lead has a helix at a distal end of a rotatable shaft. Prior to implantation of the lead, the helix has a first configuration comprising an electrically active surface coated with an electrically insulative layer of a biologically dissolvable material to render the helix electrically inactive. Upon fixation of the helix into an organ, the helix has the first configuration and a pin is in electrical contact with the organ to detect proper fixation of the helix into the organ. Subsequent to fixation of the helix into the organ, the helix has a second configuration comprising an electrically active surface exposed upon dissolving of the electrically insulative layer of the biologically dissolvable material to render the helix electrically active.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL AB
    Inventors: Sara Hallander, Marcus Helgesson
  • Patent number: 9339233
    Abstract: A lead has an electrically controlled switch at a proximal end of a rotatable shaft. The electrically controlled switch has a first configuration to electrically connect a first electric conductor to a second electric conductor for electrically activating the pin and has a second configuration to electrically connect the first electric conductor to the rotatable shaft for electrically activating the helix. Proper fixation of the helix to an organ is determined by switching the electrically controlled switch to the first configuration to render the pin electrically active and to electrically deactivate the helix. Upon determination of proper fixation of the helix to the organ, the electrically controlled switch is switched to the second configuration to render the helix electrically active and to electrically deactivate the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL AB
    Inventors: Sara Hallander, Marcus Helgesson
  • Patent number: 9339234
    Abstract: A measuring method for measuring a physiological parameter via a measuring system comprising a test strip, an auxiliary measuring device and an electronic device having an application program and an analog-to digital converting unit is provided. The measuring method includes steps of coupling the auxiliary measuring device between the test strip and the electronic device to form a loop; the electronic device executing the application program to provide a first analog signal, and transferring the first analog signal to the auxiliary measuring device via the loop; the auxiliary measuring device applying a voltage to the test strip according to the first analog signal, and causing the test strip to generate a second analog signal; the analog-to-digital converting unit converting the second analog signal into a digital signal via the application program; and the application program calculating the digital signal to estimate the physiological parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: BIONIME CORPORATION
    Inventors: Chieh-Hsing Chen, Chih-Lung Yeh
  • Patent number: 9339235
    Abstract: A physiological monitoring system may determine physiological information, such as physiological rate information, and other information, such as signal-to-noise information, from a physiological signal. The system may generate at least one difference signal based on the physiological signal and sort the at least one difference signal to generate at least one sorted difference signal. The system may analyze the at least one sorted difference signal to determine at least two values indicative of noise. The system may determine a value indicative of a signal-to-noise ratio based on the two or more values indicative of noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Fernando Rodriguez-Llorente, Pirow Engelbrecht, Nicholas James Wooder
  • Patent number: 9339236
    Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and systems for continuous transdermal monitoring (“CTM”) are disclosed. One exemplary embodiment of a continuous transdermal monitoring system comprises a sensor package. The sensor package may include a pulse oximetry sensor having a plurality of light detectors arranged as an array. One exemplary method for continuous transdermal monitoring begins by positioning a pulse oximetry sensor system, similar to the system described immediately above, adjacent to a target tissue segment. Then, the method continues by detecting a light reflected by the target tissue segment. Then, the method continues by transmitting a pulse oximetry reading(s), based at least in part on the light reflected by the target tissue segment, of the target tissue segment. Then, the method continues by analyzing the pulse oximetry reading(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventors: James Tyler Frix, Andrew Johnson, James Mitchell Frix, Robert Andrew Taylor
  • Patent number: 9339237
    Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and systems for continuous transdermal monitoring (“CTM”) are disclosed. One exemplary method for CTM begins by monitoring an output signal from an accelerometer. The accelerometer output signal may indicate acceleration and deceleration of a body part of a user, such as the user's wrist. Based on the accelerometer output signal, it may be determined that the body part of the user has decelerated to a minimum, e.g., substantially zero. With a determination that the body part has decelerated to the minimum, e.g., substantially zero, or has not accelerated beyond the minimum, e.g., substantially zero, the method may determine a reading from a pulse oximeter associated with the accelerometer. Advantageously, the pulse oximetry reading, or a reading from other sensors associated with the accelerometer, may be optimally accurate as motion artifact may be minimized. The pulse oximetry reading may be recorded for later query and/or rendered for the benefit of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventors: James Tyler Frix, Andrew Johnson, James Mitchell Frix, Robert Andrew Taylor
  • Patent number: 9339238
    Abstract: Systems and methods for processing sensor data are provided. In some embodiments, systems and methods are provided for calibration of a continuous analyte sensor. In some embodiments, systems and methods are provided for classification of a level of noise on a sensor signal. In some embodiments, systems and methods are provided for determining a rate of change for analyte concentration based on a continuous sensor signal. In some embodiments, systems and methods for alerting or alarming a patient based on prediction of glucose concentration are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: DexCom, Inc.
    Inventors: Mohammad Ali Shariati, Apurv Ullas Kamath, J. Michael Dobbles, Aarthi Mahalingam
  • Patent number: 9339239
    Abstract: MRI techniques are widely and successfully applied in medicine and biophysics because MRI provides good contrast between different soft tissues without ionizing radiation. MRI protocols are optimized in four aspects: imaging parameters, k-space strategies, RF system calibration and contrast inhomogeneity correction. The signal intensities of normal and disease tissues are simulated, for example, using Bloch equations for an imaging sequence with tissue MR parameters. The relationships between imaging parameters and tissue contrasts are calculated using the numerically simulated signal intensities. The optimal imaging parameters and/or k-space strategies are determined to maximize image contrast and minimize artifacts with acceptable spatial-temporal resolution based on characterization of the imaging hardware. The RF system is optionally calibrated to improve the accuracy of the imaging parameters and reduce inter-scanner variability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Ohio State Innovation Foundation
    Inventors: Jinghua Wang, Zhong-lin Lu
  • Patent number: 9339240
    Abstract: A system and method for non-invasively estimating the tissue blood oxygen saturation level of a human subject, including so-called “outliers”, whose physiological make-up causes previously-known techniques to generate invalid tissue blood oxygen saturation estimations. The system includes a computing device and a sensor. The sensor includes a light source configured to emit light of at least four different wavelengths, one at a time. The sensor also includes two light detectors, each positioned a different distances from the light source. Optical density measurements are taken by the light detectors and provided to the computing device. A first tissue blood oxygen saturation value is computed using the optical density measurements associated with three of the four wavelengths, and a second tissue blood oxygen saturation value is computed using the optical density measurements associated with four of the wavelengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Ronald A. Widman, Arik Anderson, Oleg Gonopolskiy
  • Patent number: 9339241
    Abstract: Real-time, short-term analysis of ECG, by using multiple signal processing and machine learning techniques, is used to determine counter shock success in defibrillation. Combinations of measures when used with machine learning algorithms readily predict successful resuscitation, guide therapy and predict complications. In terms of guiding resuscitation, they may serve as indicators and when to provide counter shocks and at what energy levels they should be provided as well as to serve as indicators of when certain drugs should be provided (in addition to their doses). For cardiac arrest, the system is meant to run in real time during all current resuscitation procedures including post-resuscitation care to detect deterioration for guiding care such as therapeutic hypothermia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Virginia Commonwealth University
    Inventors: Kayvan Najarian, Sharad Shandilya, Kevin R. Ward
  • Patent number: 9339242
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and notification of injury wherein an individual wears a monitoring device, the monitoring device tracks biometric data such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and acceleration of the individual and sends the data to a base station, the base station analyzes the data to see if bodily changes such as decreased blood oxygen levels or significant changes in heart rate or acceleration has occurred, and the base station determines whether to sound an alarm to indicate death or severe bodily injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Pacific Place Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Melanie Bailey, Connie Ballew, James Segermark
  • Patent number: 9339243
    Abstract: A radiation treatment and imaging system for emitting a radiation treatment beam and X-ray imaging beams towards an object. The system includes an x-ray source and a collimator, first and second detectors, and a linear accelerator that delivers radiation beams to an object. The linear accelerator includes a radiation source positioned between the first and second detectors and emitting a therapy radiation beam in-line with the x-ray beams received by the first and second detectors. The system also includes a data processing device in communication with the first and second detectors. The data processing device receives imaging signals from the first and second detectors and reconstructs a three-dimensional tetrahedron beam computed tomography (TBCT) image from the received imaging signals. The system also includes a display in communication with the data processing device and for displaying the TBCT image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: WILLIAM BEAUMONT HOSPITAL
    Inventors: Tiezhi Zhang, Joshua Kim