Abstract: Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, small cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is configured for use in the vascular system and has utility in the introduction and removal of implant delivery catheters. The access route is through the femoral arteries and the iliac arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration during advancement to the arteries into the aorta. The distal end of the sheath is subsequently expanded using a radial dilatation device, which is removed prior to the introduction of implant delivery catheters.

Abstract: A wireless tattoo applicator system includes a wireless tattoo applicator having a frame, a wireless receiver mechanically coupled to the frame, at least one coil mechanically coupled to the frame, an armature pivotally coupled to the frame adjacent the at least one coil, a spring mounted to the frame and applying a force to the armature in a first direction, a needle assembly mechanically coupled to the armature and free to move in a reciprocating manner, a battery power supply mechanically coupled to the frame and selectively electrically couplable to the at least one coil and operable, when coupled to the at least one coil, to energize the at least one coil to create a magnetic field causing the armature to be pulled in a second direction opposite the first direction, and a control circuit communicatively coupled to the receiver and operable to couple and decouple the battery power supply from the at least one coil at a selectable frequency.

Abstract: Devices having male connectors for preventing connection to non-compatible female connectors are described. An exemplary male connector includes an elongate tip and a collar disposed coaxially around the elongate tip including a plurality of ribs disposed on either an inside surface or an outside surface of the collar for preventing entry of a non-compatible female connector into a channel formed between the elongate tip and the collar. One or more embodiments pertain to a device with a male connector and a compatible female connector including a threaded portion for engaging a corresponding threaded portion of the male connector.

Abstract: A line separation protector is provided that can include an arm, an anchor, a clasp attached to the arm, and a tab connected to and configured to manipulate the clasp. A tubing subsystem is also provided that can include a first tubing threaded through the anchor of the line separation protector described herein. A line connection system is also provided and can include the tubing subsystem described herein, and a second tubing, wherein the clasp of the line separation protector is configured to engage the second tubing. A method of protecting a line connection system is also described herein and includes engaging a second tubing with the clasp of the protector to form a protected line connection system.

Abstract: A connector for coupling to a base of medical device equipped with a circular hub having an annular recess. The connector includes a cap having a top surface, a bottom surface, a circumferential region defining a bottom plane and a periphery, and at least two arms substantially parallel to the bottom plane. Each arm spans at least two portions within the circumferential region to releasably engage the annular recess. At least one deflection member that is accessible from the top surface is positioned to deflect the arms. Pressing the connector onto the circular hub engages the arms with the annular recess so the connector can rotate completely about the circular hub. Pressing at least one deflection member to reversibly deflect at least one arm between its two portions of the circumferential region towards the periphery disengages the arm from the annular recess to decouple the connector.

Abstract: Coupling arrangements and connectors for establishing a substantially fluid-tight removable connection between a plurality of fluid ports or channels in a medical device such as, an endoscope. Various embodiments of the connectors may be coupled to a plurality of fluid conduits that may be attached to a decontamination or reprocessing device used to flow fluid through corresponding channels in the medical device during the decontamination process.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electrode device used in iontophoresis treatment, in which an electrode layer used for introduction of medication can be contacted to a medication reservoir layer with a simple manner, and in which the medication reservoir layer can be reliably held when the medication is introduced into a skin. A main-electrode layer 3 and a sub-electrode layer 1 are secured on a substrate 6 while both the layers are being insulated from each other. The main-electrode layer 3 is intended for introduction of the medication, and the sub-electrode layer 1 is provided to hold the medication reservoir layer 5 on the substrate 6. The medication reservoir layer 5 is located on the substrate 6, so as to be in contact with the main-electrode layer 3 and the sub-electrode layer 1. The medication reservoir layer 5 is a gel containing halogen compound, and the sub-electrode layer 1 comprises a metal having a lower ionization tendency than hydrogen.

Abstract: A cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) device includes a head support, a control unit configured to provide a stimulating current, and a primary arm module. The primary arm module includes a primary arm and an electrode unit. The primary arm is pivotally connected to the head support and is longitudinally extendible. The electrode unit is disposed at the primary arm and includes an electrode that is electrically coupled to the control unit and that forms a path for transmission of the stimulating current to a stimulating point of a subject when the electrode is placed in direct contact with the stimulating point.

Abstract: A circumferential headset for use in delivering electrical stimulation to the skin surface of the head.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein for treatment of a disease, disorder, or condition in a vertebrate subject. A device is provided that includes one or more cooling elements configured to be applied to one or more tissues of a vertebrate subject to modulate at least one activity of brown adipose tissue of the vertebrate subject, wherein at least a portion of the one or more cooling elements is configured to be implantable, and a programmable controller configured to provide instructions to the one or more cooling elements in response to information regarding one or more physiological conditions of the vertebrate subject.

Abstract: A method for forming a cochlear electrode array with a plurality of electrodes which are spaced so as to stimulate sites within a cochlea includes shaping a sheet of electrically conductive material to form a support structure and a plurality of electrodes, in which the electrodes are tethered to the support structure at the spacing of the cochlear electrode array. A cochlear lead includes a flexible body that has frictional characteristics that vary about its circumference. A cochlear lead includes a flexible body with a first region and a second region with different surface textures. This generates differential sliding forces during insertion of the cochlear lead which influence a motion of the cochlear lead during insertion. The cochlear lead having an electrode array with varying stiffness along its length is also provided.

Abstract: An implantable electric lead arrangement for a medical implant system includes an implantable electric lead with parallel lead wires wound in an elongated helix about a central longitudinal axis. A conical shape lead core is fixed and enclosed within the wire helix for providing impact strain relief to the electric lead by resisting radial and/or axial deformation from external impact force. The conical shape of the lead core is configured for a smooth transition between a lead core portion of the electric lead that is protected against external impact force and a non-lead core portion of the electric lead that is unprotected from external impact force.

Abstract: An implantable electrode is described for a cochlear implant patient with a cochlea having a single internal cavity defined by an outer cavity wall. The electrode includes an extra-cochlear electrode lead with signal wires for conducting electrical stimulation signals. An intra-cochlear electrode array is configured to be inserted into the cochlea through a single cochleostomy opening and is made of a resilient carrier material having an outer surface with one or more stimulation contacts for delivering the electrical stimulation signals to adjacent neural tissue. An insertion line is attached to the outer surface of the electrode array at a distal end and is made of a line material different from the electrode carrier material. The insertion line is configured to have an extra-cochlear end extending outside the cochleostomy opening during surgical insertion of the electrode array into the cochlea.

Abstract: A multi-branch stimulation electrode is disclosed herein. The multi-branch stimulation electrode can include a plurality of branches that extend from a hub. The branches can each include one or several stimulation contacts that can deliver an electrical current to tissue contacting the stimulation contacts. The stimulation contacts can be electrically connected with the lead. The lead can extend from the hub and can be connected with the pulse generator. The branches can include features to facilitate implantation including, for example, one or several removable stiffening elements.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implantable capsule, particularly an autonomous capsule of cardiac stimulation, comprising a tubular body provided at the distal end of an anchoring element with a helical screw adapted to penetrate tissue a wall of an organ of a patient, the body housing a set of functional elements of the capsule. It comprises an annular support integral with the body and coaxial therewith, said support surrounding the base of the anchoring element and comprising a series of openings radially extending. The base of the anchoring element comprises a series of rods or tubes projecting in a generally radial direction, and engaged in said openings to thereby secure the anchoring element to the support.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and apparatus for improving electrode-skin contact. The electrode is a segmented electrode having an array of energy applying surfaces mounted on a substrate via at least one electro-mechanical energy converting element to a segment of skin. The electrode is coupled to the skin and a mechanism monitors the quality of electrode-skin contact under the energy applying surfaces. Activation of the electro-mechanical energy converting elements effects mechanical movement of the skin and energy applying surfaces and redistributes the skin surface coupled to the electrodes conforming it to the topography of the RF energy applying surfaces to optimize electrode-skin contact. The segmented electrode is operative to be disposable while enabling reuse of costly components of the electrode.

Abstract: An active implantable medical device (AIMD) for use with a medical lead carrying at least one lead electrode. The AIMD comprises interior electronic circuitry configured for performing a medical function via the medical lead, an electrically conductive case containing the interior electronic circuitry, at least one electrical terminal configured for electrically coupling the electronic circuitry respectively to the lead electrode(s), and an inductive element coupled in series between the electrical terminal(s) and the case. The inductive element is configured for hindering the shunting of electrical current from the at least one electrical terminal to the case that has been induced by electromagnetic interference (EMI) impinging on the medical lead.

Abstract: Techniques for managing urinary or fecal incontinence include delivering a first type of therapy to generate a first physiological response and, upon detecting a trigger event, delivering a second type of therapy to generate a second physiological response. The first type of therapy can be delivered on a substantially regular basis, while the second type of therapy is delivered as needed to provide an additional boost of therapy. The trigger event for activating the delivery of the second type of therapy may include input from a sensor that indicates a bladder condition, patient activity level or patient posture, or patient input. In some examples, the therapy is stimulation therapy.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treating a patient with dyspnea are disclosed. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes identifying the patient as suffering from dyspnea, and, based at least in part on identifying the patient as suffering from dyspnea, implanting an electrical signal delivery element within the patient in signal communication with an afferent neural pathway of a carotid body chemoreceptor. The method can further include at least reducing dyspneic sensations in the patient by directing an electrical signal from the electrical signal delivery element to the neural pathway to at least partially block afferent signals from the chemoreceptor.

Abstract: A portable, wearable device for managing pain and promoting healing, a management assembly including such a device, and a method of using the same. The device includes a housing defining a cavity; a microprocessor situated within the cavity; a power source operatively connected with the microprocessor; and a pair of electrodes. The electrodes are mounted in apertures in a bottom wall of the housing and extend for a distance there beyond. One or more mounting assemblies are used with the device to provide a management assembly. The mounting assembly may be a strap having a retaining ring into which the device fits, or an adhesive patch configured to receive the device. The device is engaged with the mounting assembly and then positioned adjacent the patient's skin. When activated, the device generates a current which passes from one electrode through the patient's skin to the other electrode thereby mitigating pain.

Abstract: An implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) treats Parkinson's disease or Essential Tremor through application of stimulation pulses applied at at least one of acupoints GB34 and GV20. The IEAD includes an hermetically-sealed implantable electroacupuncture (EA) device having at least two electrodes located outside of its housing. The housing contains a primary power source, pulse generation circuitry, and a sensor that wirelessly senses externally-generated operating commands. The pulse generation circuitry generates stimulation pulses as controlled, at least in part, by the operating commands sensed through the sensor. The stimulation pulses are applied to the specified acupoint or nerve through the electrodes in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Such stimulation regimen requires that the stimulation session be applied at a very low duty cycle not greater than 0.05.

Abstract: A flexible-base electrode array for implantation within neural tissue, method of making the electrode array and use thereof, is provided. A surrogate neural tissue, method of making same and use thereof, is further provided. The use of the present flexible-base electrode array for implantation into the surrogate neural tissue for stimulation or recording neural activity, wherein the array is biocompatible with the surrogate tissue.

Abstract: An Implantable ElectroAcupuncture Device (IEAD) treats cardiovascular disease through application of stimulation pulses applied at at least one of acupoints EX-HN1, BL14, HT7, HT5, PC6, ST36, LI11, LU7, and LU2. The IEAD comprises an implantable, coin-sized, self-contained, leadless electroacupuncture device having at least two electrodes attached to an outside surface of its housing. The device generates stimulation pulses in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Power management circuitry within the device allows a primary battery, having a high internal impedance, to be used to power the device. The stimulation regimen generates stimulation pulses during a stimulation session of duration T3 minutes applied every T4 minutes. The duty cycle, or ratio T3/T4 is very low, no greater than 0.05. The low duty cycle and careful power management allow the IEAD to perform its intended function for several years.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus is presented for a wireless neural modulation feedback control system as it relates to an implantable medical device comprised of a radio frequency (RF) receiver circuit, one or more dipole or patch antenna(s), one or more electrode leads connected to at least one dipole or patch antenna(s), and at least one microelectronic neural modulation circuit, and an external or internally implanted RF device to neurally modulate brain tissue in order to treat medical conditions that can be mediated by neuronal activation or inhibition, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, epilepsy, other motor or mood based disorders, and/or pain. The implantable receiver captures energy radiated by the RF transmitter unit and converts this energy to an electrical waveform by the implanted neural modulation circuit to deliver energy that can be utilized by the attached electrode pads in order to activate targeted neurons in the brain.

Abstract: In response to input from a patient who is being treated by a sacral nerve stimulation therapy, an electronic diary is generated that includes a plurality of voiding responses of the patient over a period of time. The sacral nerve stimulation therapy includes electrical pulses delivered to the patient according to a first stimulation program and via a first subset of electrode contacts on a lead that is implanted in the patient. The lead has a plurality of electrode contacts that include the first subset. Based on the voiding responses in the electronic diary, a loss of efficacy of the sacral nerve stimulation therapy is detected. The sacral nerve stimulation therapy is automatically adjusted in response to the detected loss of efficacy. The automatically adjustment of the sacral nerve stimulation therapy may include either a program-based sweep or a contact-based sweep.

Abstract: The disclosure describes techniques for delivering electrical stimulation to decrease the ventricular rate response during an atrial tachyarrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation. AV nodal stimulation is employed during an atrial tachyarrhythmia episode with rapid ventricular conduction to distinguish ventricular tachyarrhythmia from supraventricular tachycardia and thereby prevent delivering inappropriate therapy to a patient.

Abstract: Diastolic function is monitored within a patient based on dynamic cardiogenic impedance as measured by a pacemaker or other implantable medical device. In one example, the device uses ventricular cardiogenic impedance values to detect E-wave parameters representative of passive filling of the ventricles. Atrial cardiogenic impedance values are used to detect A-wave parameters representative of active filling of the ventricles. Diastolic function is then assessed or evaluated based on the E-wave and A-wave parameters. Various functions of the implantable device are then controlled based on the assessment of diastolic function, such as by adjusting atrioventricular delay parameters to improve diastolic function. In some examples, the detection of E- and A-wave parameters is achieved by aligning impedance signals to atrial activation, and separately to ventricular activation, during asynchronous VOO pacing or while artificially inducing a 2:1 block.

Abstract: A system and method provide precise detection of the time of occurrence of a cardiac event of a heart. The method comprises the steps of sensing electrical activity of the heart to generate an electrogram of the heart and applying the electrogram to an event detector having a plurality of spaced apart thresholds. The thresholds are selected such that the electrogram has an amplitude for crossing at least one of the thresholds. The method further comprises determining a characteristic identifying feature of the electrogram at each threshold crossing of the electrogram, comparing the determined characteristic identifying features to an electrogram template, and identifying the time of occurrence of the cardiac event based upon the comparison.

Abstract: An electrical pulse generator system such as a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator system includes an impedance measuring device which measures the impedance across pacemaker leads, a display device, and a controller which controls the display device to display at least the measured impedance upon each stimulation pulse, or an image showing the relationship between a first applied electrical signal, measured impedance, and a resulting electrical signal which varies according to Ohm's Law. The system may include a short circuit detector and a pulse amplitude control module which switches between normal mode and safe mode operation based on short circuit detection, with different maximum stimulation pulse amplitudes in the normal and safe modes.

Abstract: An external control device for use with a medical component implanted within a patient. The device comprises a user interface configured for receiving user input, displaying a first graphical representation of the medical component in the context of a global graphical representation of an anatomical region of the patient, displaying a view finder defining a portion of the global graphical representation, and displaying a second graphical representation of the medical component in the context of a local graphical representation of the portion of the anatomical region portion. The external control device further comprises control circuitry configured for, in response to the input from the user, modifying the displayed view finder to spatially define a different portion of the global graphical representation, such that the second graphical representation of the medical component is displayed in the context of a local graphical representation of the different portion of the anatomical region.

Abstract: A Medical Device Application (MDA) is disclosed for an external device (e.g., a cell phone) that can communicate with an Implantable Medical Device (IMD). The MDA receives data logged in the IMD, processes that data in manners reviewable by an IMD patient, and that can control the IMD based on such processed data. The MDA can use the logged data to adjust IMD therapy based on patient activity or posture, and allows a patient to learn optimal therapy settings for particular activities. The MDA can also use the logged data to allow a patient to review details about IMD battery performance, whether such battery is primary or rechargeable, and to control stimulation parameters based on that performance. The MDA also allows a patient to enter medicine dose information, to review the relationship between medicinal therapy and IMD therapy, and to adjust IMD therapy based on the dosing information.

Abstract: Described herein are methods of treating neurological injury and conditions, in particular neurodegenerative conditions. These treatment methods can include the steps of generating a pulsed electromagnetic field from a pulsed electromagnetic field source and applying the pulsed electromagnetic field in proximity to a target region.

Abstract: An orthopedic infra-red laser medical device and methods of use for applying infra-red energy to an anatomic region of interest located within the body of a patient. The device includes a hollow needle and a housing on which the needle is releasably mounted. The housing includes an infra-red laser source for producing a laser beam and directing the beam through the needle to exit out of the open distal end of the needle. The distal end of the needle is sharp to pierce through the skin of the patient to a position closely adjacent the anatomic region of interest to deliver the infra-red laser beam thereto without any intervening skin and tissue attenuating the infra-red laser beam. The device can be used for various orthopedic purposes and can also be used on fat in a patient to release activated stem cells.

Abstract: This invention relates to phototherapy lights, in particular for a combination of Bright Light Therapy and Dawn Simulation. A phototherapy light source having two operational modes, a first dawn simulator mode; and a second, bright light therapy mode; the light comprising a controller coupled to a light source; and wherein, in said first mode said light source is controlled to provide variable illumination with a minimum light intensity of less than 1 lux at 50 centimeters, and in said second mode said light source is controlled to provide illumination with a light intensity of at least 1000 lux at 50 centimeters.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel activatable particles which can be used in the health sector. The invention more particularly relates to composite particles which can generate free radicals or heat when excited by X rays, and to the uses thereof in health, particularly human. The inventive particles comprise an inorganic-based, and optionally organic-based, nucleus and can be activated in vivo, in order to label or alter cells, tissues or organs. The invention also relates to methods for the production of said particles, and to pharmaceutical or diagnostic compositions containing same.

Abstract: A pacemaker is provided. The pacemaker includes a pulse generator and an electrode line connecting with the pulse generator. The electrode line includes at least one conductor. The at least one conductor includes at least one carbon nanotube wire having a plurality of radioactive particles therein.

Abstract: A specific site location measuring includes: calculating matching degrees based on a plurality of transmission images imaged by use of radiation transmitting through a specimen and a template set; selecting a template transmission image from the plurality of transmission images based on the matching degrees; adding a new template generated based on the template transmission image, to the template set; imaging a location measurement transmission image by use of radiation transmitting through the specimen; selecting an optimal template that is the most similar to a portion of the location measurement transmission image, from the template set by performing pattern matching of each of templates of the template set with the location measurement transmission image; and calculating a specific site location based on the location measurement transmission image and the optimal template.

Abstract: The present disclosure is to destroy adipose tissue non-invasively by using focused ultrasound (FUS) and to increase the treatment efficiency by the synergy of the novel FUS and electrical stimulation. Lipid can be released from the destroyed adipocytes and stay in the interstitial fluid of undestroyed adipocytes. In the meanwhile or after the treatment of FUS, a passive exercise of muscle in thighs or other parts is performed by electrical stimulation to consume energy. Therefore, metabolism of the free lipid can be enhanced by supplying energy to the muscles. The ultrasound treatment of the present disclosure is able to increase the treatment area, and while in combination with electrical stimulation, it can efficiently remove lipids in the circulation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cosmetic composition for making up the skin, lips or superficial body growths, comprising a cosmetic base, at least one colored inorganic pigment [A] in an amount sufficient to define a first color of said composition in its body, and at least one pigment [B] chosen from organic dye lakes, the color of which is different from that of the pigment [A], in an amount sufficient to define a second color, radically different from said first color, which is revealed after the application of said composition on the lips, skin or superficial body growths.

Abstract: The present invention relates to glucommannan oligosaccharides and polysaccharides that possess one or more properties selected from skin regeneration, wound healing and skin augmentation. More particularly, the invention relates to the use of glucomannan oligosaccharides and polysaccharides for one or more of skin regeneration, wound healing and skin augmentation agents in a mammal. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical formulation for treating skin of a subject comprising an active component comprising glucomannan in a suitable diluent, excipient or physical form such as dermal scaffold or sponge, the active component being capable of promoting an accumulation of fibroblasts in the skin and stimulating production of collagen in the skin.

Abstract: Prosthetics created in layers, and methods of making them, comprising one or more materials. The methods utilize a clay sculpture from which is made a negative impression cast in silicone, which is used to cast a durable positive prosthetic, which is used to create either durable or temporary negative production impressions into which the layers can be built to form the finished prosthetic.

Abstract: A Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Illumination System utilizing LED (light emitting diode) lights is designed as a modification to attach to a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) mask to provide increased visibility to Professionals working in an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) environment. The SCBA illumination System can be easily installed on a typical mask. The SCBA illumination System comprises a strip of lights coupled to a power supply comprising a power button and a battery pack. The power button may include a push button or pressure sensor that allows a Professional to activate the push button or pressure sensor easily with a gloved hand. The power source may also include some type of circuitry that powers down the light after a specified amount of time to avoid draining the power source.

Abstract: A system for filtering breathing air and apparatus for accomplishing the same. The invention describes a nasal filtration system which can be inserted into the nasal cavities. The filters comprise cavities through which air is inhaled or exhaled. The filter performs as a mechanical filter to catch and prevent the inhalation of undesirable particulate. Further, the filter comprises a disinfectant agent, such as colloidal silver, which kills germs, bacteria, and viruses to prevent the spreading of disease.

Abstract: Fire control and containment for a production printing system that includes a dryer unit, an air intake fan, and an exhaust fan. A fire control and containment system includes an enclosure surrounding the dryer unit. The enclosure includes controllable doors, a temperature sensor, and an air pressure sensor in the enclosure. The fire containment and control system also includes a controller operable to detect a fire event based on changes in air pressure and air temperature in the enclosure detected by the air pressure and air temperature sensors. In response to detecting the fire event, the controller closes the doors of the enclosure to prevent the print medium from entering, controls the air intake fan and the exhaust fan to reduce the air pressure in the enclosure, and controls the dryer unit to reduce temperature in the enclosure to suppress fire.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fire valve made of a body (100) consisting of a frame (50) and a tunnel (10) in which a butterfly damper (200) is pivotably mounted between a closed position, separating an inner side (I) from an outer side (E), and an open holding position. The body (100) and the butterfly damper (200) formed by a blade (210) are each produced by assembling cut and pasted refractory sand-lime plates (11, 51, 211). The assembly forming the body (100) and that forming the butterfly damper (200) are provided with steel reinforcements directly attached to the plate assemblies. The reinforcements (60, 70) of the body (100) are attached onto the outer side of the tunnel (10) and of the frame (50) and the reinforcements (240, 250) of the butterfly damper (200) are attached onto both sides of the blade (210). The butterfly damper is locked by the expansion of the metal elements.

Abstract: The portable fire protection system comprises a self-contained apparatus including a quantity of fire extinguishing agent, a pump, a pop-up sprinkler head, a power supply, and a receiver. A remotely located smoke and fire detector communicates wirelessly with the receiver to actuate the apparatus in the event that smoke and/or fire is detected. The extinguishing agent is dispensed from the tank by the pump and the pop-up sprinkler head, with the head automatically deploying when water pressure is provided thereto by the pump. The low pressure sprinkler head dispenses a wide array of various sizes of droplets when the system is activated.

Abstract: A hand-held sports or exercise training device configured to improve the swing of a user that includes a hollow body defining a interior volume extending within the device and a slidable mass having an passage that extends through the mass in the direction of movement, or, alternative, one or more passages that allow air flow are contained in a sleeve housing the slidable mass and/or in the bat end. The slidable mass is contained within the interior volume or an added sleeve and is in contact with an interior circumference of the hollow body or sleeve. As a user swings the device, the moment of inertia for the device changes such that swing mechanics and/or timing can be improved.

Abstract: A lower body strength training method and equipment facilitates safely building muscles and coordination. The method and equipment provides an efficient and safe workout to increase leg strength and speed in lateral movement. The method and equipment may be configured for a lateral exercise and for a vertical step exercise. The equipment included two ramps positionable opposing each other for the lateral exercise, and the ramps may be joined for the vertical step exercise.

Abstract: Disclosed is a muscle toning garment with force dampening resistance elements, which may be fluid filled rotary dampers. The garment provides resistance training throughout an angular range of motion. The garment may be low profile, and worn by a wearer as a primary garment or beneath conventional clothing. Toning may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer's normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques.

Abstract: An exercise and rehabilitation apparatus is provided having resistance load units comprising a resistance drum rotabably coupled to a user crank handle mechanism, a friction strap surrounds the resistance drum wherein the level of friction resistance between the drum and the resistance load unit housing is user selectable thereby selecting the force required to rotate the user crank. Once user adjusted the resistance load unit provides a constant load to the user crank. Resistance load units are mounted opposingly providing a left and right hand user crank. A variety of user crank embodiments are provided for simulating the forces and motion experienced by a user in various sporting, exercising and rehabilitation user activities.