Abstract: Upon filling multiple inflatable chambers of a gastric balloon structure in a patient's stomach, the gastric balloon structure assumes a natural three-dimensional kidney shape of the gastric cavity. A flexible central spine may span a gap between two inflatable chambers and may include lumens for inflation of one or both chambers. The plurality of compartments, when in an inflated state, may form a cavity therebetween through which food may pass and may leave in a stomach a residual volume of 10 ml to 100 ml.

Abstract: This invention is a device and method for selectively and automatically reducing absorption of unhealthy food in a person's gastrointestinal tract, while allowing normal absorption of healthy food. In an example, such a device can comprise: a food-identifying sensor; an absorption-reducing substance; an implanted reservoir; and a release-control mechanism that selectively and automatically releases the substance into the person's gastrointestinal tract when the sensor detects that the person is consuming unhealthy food.

Abstract: A duodenal sleeve assembly comprises a sleeve, an expandable sealing member, a tether, and an expandable anchor. The sleeve is secured to the sealing member. The tether couples the anchor with the sealing member. A deployment instrument comprises a shaft assembly, a first retention member, and a second retention member. The first retention member selectively secures the sealing member to the shaft assembly. The second retention member selectively secures the anchor to the shaft assembly. When the first retention member is released, the sealing member expands outwardly to seal the proximal end of the sleeve against the mucosa of the patient's duodenum. When the second retention member is released, the anchor expands outwardly within the stomach to anchor the sleeve assembly relative to the stomach. The tether traverses the pylorus. The sleeve isolates chyme from enzymes in the duodenum; and the mucosa of the duodenum from nutrients in the chyme.

Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation brace responsive to various positions of an intended wearer's foot. The device includes a plurality of sensors positioned at different locations under the intended wearer's foot to detect the current position of the foot. Outputs from the sensors are fed to a controller that uses logic to activate an electrical stimulation unit that stimulates the peroneal muscles of a patient at the appropriate times during the patient's gait. The device may also employ mechanical stabilization of the ankle in addition to the functional electrical stimulation by means of an ankle foot orthosis with a variable resistance hinge. The electrodes are embedded in fixed locations in the brace upper portion so that optimal location of the electrodes relative to the peroneal muscles is maintained every time the device is applied. Also provided is a method for assistance and rehabilitation for a patient by electrical stimulation of the peroneal muscles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new system, method, and device for assisting a user in maintaining proper posture. More specifically, the present invention relates to a new system, method, and device for applying pressure to one or more of a person's posture pressure points when the person has poor posture, for example because the person's body is misaligned.

Abstract: A waste management system includes a waste transport device and a waste collection device. The waste transport device includes a collection member, a retention cuff disposed about an outer surface of the collection member, a first connector, and a proximal end opening biased in a sealed position. The waste collection device includes a second connector and an opening biased in a sealed position. Securing the first connector to the second connector enables transitioning the proximal end opening of the waste transport device and the waste collection device opening to unsealed positions.

Abstract: Bi- or multiphasic, clear or translucent silicone-containing lubricant compositions, and products including such compositions and methods of making such compositions and products are disclosed. The refractive index of each immiscible phase of the lubricant composition is matched to that of each other phase to make the composition clear or translucent. The compositions are highly lubricious, non-staining, and easily washable.

Abstract: A prophylactic device includes a base for receiving a portion of a body, a tip for containing body fluids, and a tubular body in between. The tubular body includes at least one area with a textured pattern, including lines running along the tubular body (e.g., lines running in at least three directions) that form shapes on the tubular body with portions of the lines forming edges of the shapes (e.g., circles, ellipses, polygons, etc.). The textured pattern forms a reinforcing mesh that wraps around the tubular body. A mold can be used for making the prophylactic device, where the mold includes different portions for receiving material(s), and is shaped to form the material(s) into the base, tip, and tubular body of the prophylactic device.

Abstract: A surgical device and procedure are provided for smoothly and easily accessing tissue to perform microsurgery, including a capsulotomy of a lens capsule of an eye. The device includes a handpiece with a tip for insertion into an incision in the cornea of the eye. A sliding element is disposed within the handpiece and a suction cup is mounted to the sliding element. The sliding element can be translated to move the suction cup into and out of the handpiece. A compression mechanism associated with the suction cup and the handpiece compresses the suction cup for deployment through the tip of the handpiece. The suction cup can expand inside the anterior chamber into a cutting position on the lens capsule. A cutting element mounted to the suction cup is used to cut a portion of the lens capsule and to remove the portion from the eye.

Abstract: A valve system for an ocular implant device includes a boss structure. The boss structure includes an inlet for fluid inflow, and a number of outlets for fluid outflow. The valve system further includes a deformable membrane positioned over and spaced apart from the inlet, the membrane comprising a piezo-based material, an actuating element to apply pressure to the membrane to deform the membrane into a position that obstructs fluid flow from the inlet, and a control system to detect a position of the membrane based on measured electrical properties of the membrane.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of treating a hard lens region of an eye with a laser where one method includes identifying a boundary of the hard lens region, selecting a laser-parameter to enable a photodisruptive procedure in the hard lens region and to control a spreading of bubbles in the hard lens region, modifying a mechanical property of a posterior portion of the hard lens region in a proximity of the identified boundary by the photodisruptive procedure, and modifying a mechanical property of a portion anterior to the modified posterior portion of the hard lens region by the photodisruptive procedure. The laser bubbles can be applied to form incisions which are non transverse to an axis of the eye and intersect the lens fibers.

Abstract: A cataract surgical system includes a laser source to generate a first set of laser pulses; a guiding optic to guide the first set of laser pulses to a cataract target region in an eye; a laser controller to generate an electronic representation of a target scan pattern, and to control the guiding optic to scan the first set of laser pulses according to a portion of the target scan pattern to create a first photo-disrupted region in the cataract target region; and a Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomographic (SD-OCT) imaging system to generate an image of a portion of the first photo-disrupted region. The laser controller can generate an electronic representation of a modified scan pattern in relation to the image generated by the SD-OCT imaging system, and control the guiding optic to scan a second set of laser pulses according the modified scan pattern.

Abstract: A cataract surgical system includes a laser source to generate a first set of laser pulses; a guiding optic to guide the first set of laser pulses to a cataract target region in an eye; a laser controller to generate an electronic representation of a target scan pattern, and to control the guiding optic to scan the first set of laser pulses according to a portion of the target scan pattern to create a first photo-disrupted region in the cataract target region; and a Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomographic (SS-OCT) imaging system to generate an image of a portion of the first photo-disrupted region. The laser controller can generate an electronic representation of a modified scan pattern in relation to the image generated by the SS-OCT imaging system, and control the guiding optic to scan a second set of laser pulses according the modified scan pattern.

Abstract: A wound dressing apparatus includes a wound dressing member dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed. The wound dressing member including an internal vacuum reservoir and has a port in communication with the vacuum reservoir for applying subatmospheric pressure to the vacuum reservoir to facilitate removal of fluid from the wound bed. The wound dressing member includes a visual pressure indicator associated therewith for indicating a level of pressure within the vacuum reservoir. The visual pressure indicator includes color indicia having a plurality of colors corresponding to a condition of the pressure within the vacuum reservoir. The wound dressing member includes a lower absorbent member positionable adjacent the wound bed and an upper member which at least partially defines the vacuum reservoir. At least one of the top member and the lower absorbent member has the visual pressure indicator mounted thereto.

Abstract: In an absorbent sheet manufacturing apparatus, a first roller (31) and a third roller (51) are rotated while each first concave portion (312) faces a convex portion (512), and therefore sheet concave portion rows (913) are formed on a first sheet member (91). The first sheet member (91) is transferred from a first roller-outer side surface (311) to a cylinder-outer side surface (211) of a supply cylinder (21), and a lower portion of the cylinder-outer side surface (211) is in contact with the first sheet member (91) while supply concave portions (212) supplied with particles face the sheet concave portion rows (913). Therefore, particles can be supplied accurately into each sheet concave portion (912) included in the sheet concave portion rows (913) and be held in the sheet concave portion (912) while the particles are practically prevented from scattering to the outside of the sheet concave portion (912).

Abstract: A negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) dressing includes a wick configured for placement over an incision. A transfer assembly includes a compressible, porous core with a permeable cover placed over the core. The transfer assembly is positioned on the wick in fluidic contact and is covered by a dressing cover, which is configured for adhesive attachment to the patient around the incision. A drain slip including a proximal end configured for placement in the incision extends through the wick and the transfer assembly and is configured for connection to a negative pressure source. A NPWT method includes steps of draining a closed incision using negative pressure applied to a drain slip.

Abstract: A tampon applicator that is water-sensitive (e.g., water-soluble, water-dispersible, etc.) in that it loses its integrity over time in the presence of water is provided. The tampon applicator can be discreetly disposed of in a toilet without the risk of clogging sewer pipes. The tampon applicator includes a molded thermoplastic composition containing at least one partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol a plasticizer. The desired water-sensitive characteristics of the tampon applicator may be achieved in the present invention by selectively controlling a variety of aspects of the thermoplastic composition from which the applicator is formed, such as the nature of the components employed, the relative amount of each component, the manner in which the composition is formed, and so forth.

Abstract: An absorbent article for collecting bodily fluid having a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent structure. The article may include a central fluid acquisition zone, a first lateral zone situated on one side of the central zone and a second lateral zone situated on the opposite side of the central zone, wherein the first and second lateral zones are formed by a nonwoven material.

Abstract: A disposable wearing article includes an absorber having a crotch region. The central curving unit that allows the absorber to be convex in the inner direction is formed at a center in the widthwise direction of the crotch region. The first curving unit that allows the absorber to be convex in the outer direction is formed in the crotch region and outboard of the central curving unit. The second curving unit that allows the absorber to be convex in the inner direction is formed in the crotch region and outboard of the first curving unit. The concave unit is formed in the absorber to be concaved inwardly in the widthwise direction at the outside in the longitudinal direction relative to the first curving unit. The second curving unit is arranged outboard of an inside edge in the widthwise direction of the concave unit in the widthwise direction.

Abstract: An absorbent garment has a chassis structure including a front panel having a front end edge, a back panel having a back end edge, a crotch panel arranged between the front and back panels. Elasticated front and back waist panels are arranged along the front and back end edges, and a core component is integrated with the chassis structure. The chassis structure also has a liquid permeable material having a garment facing side and a user facing side and forming a liquid permeable surface layer in the garment. The liquid permeable material extends continuously between the front end edge and the back end edge, and at least one of the front panel and the back panel includes an elastic web that has been bonded to the liquid permeable material with the elastic web stretched by 35-250% in at least one direction.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprising a raised barrier is provided. The raised barrier extends into a front waist region, a crotch region, and a back waist region of the absorbent article.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article is presenting having multiple components and including an inspection region subject to inspection using infrared radiation, wherein the inspection region includes a junction of two components; and a printed graphic in the inspection region, wherein the ink used to print the graphic includes no carbon black colorant such that the printed graphic is substantially transparent to infrared radiation. In addition, a disposable absorbent article having multiple components includes a printed graphic in an inspection region subject to inspection using infrared radiation, the printed graphic including black ink having no carbon black colorant such that the printed graphic is substantially transparent to infrared radiation.

Abstract: A portable female urine collector for urine collection and stowage, and a method of assembling same is disclosed. In one embodiment, the portable female urine collector includes a fordable absorbent pad for collecting urine, and a receptacle attached to the foldable absorbent pad for stowing the foldable absorbent pad therein after the foldable absorbent pad is used to collect urine. After the foldable absorbent pad is used, the foldable absorbent pad is folded by the user and then sealed within the attached receptacle for later disposal. The portable female urine collector is useful whenever toilet facilities for females are either unavailable or unsuitable.

Abstract: A powered ambulance cot and methods of raising and lowering the cot as well as loading and unloading the cot are disclosed. The cot includes a support frame and legs, each leg having a wheel. An actuator of an actuation system interconnects the frame and legs, and is configured to effect changes in elevation of the frame relative to the wheel of each of the legs. A control system controls activation of the actuation system, and detects both the actuator at a first location relative to the frame, where the first location is remote from a second location and which situates an end of the actuator that is remote from each wheel closer to the frame, and a presence of a signal requesting a change in elevation of said support frame to thereby cause the legs to move relative to the support frame.

Abstract: An ambulance cot and cot loading and unloading system for an emergency vehicle comprises a cot having a head end, a base for mounting to a deck of an emergency vehicle, a track mounted for linear movement along said base, and an arm mounted for linear movement along said track from a retracted position to an extended position. The arm is and configured to engage the cot, and wherein when the track is extended along the base and the arm is extended along the track the arm is extended from the base in an extended position and is configured for lifting the cot and providing cantilevered support to the cot while in the extended position.

Abstract: A load sensing system for a wheelchair lift arrangement includes an elongated member that is rotatable about a longitudinal axis between an unloaded position and a loaded position; a biasing member that biases the elongated member toward the unloaded position; at least one contact member connected to the elongated member and configured to contact a bridge plate; and a switch assembly operatively connected to the elongated member, the switch assembly being configured to be activated to prevent operation of the wheelchair lift arrangement when the elongated member is in the loaded position. A method of regulating movement of a lift platform of a wheelchair lift arrangement is also provided.

Abstract: A trolley for transporting individuals of limited capacity in a sedentary position on a chair is disclosed. The aforesaid trolley comprises (a) a carrying structure and (b) at least three wheels rotatably secured to the structure within a perimeter thereof. The carrying structure is configured for releasably fixating legs of the chair such that the chair is reversibly mountable on the carrying structure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for setting or modifying a programmable operating parameter associated with a power driven wheelchair is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) operating a user interface device associated with a power driven wheelchair in a programming mode, b) selecting a programmable operating parameter associated with operation of the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device, c) selecting a value for the programmable operating parameter using the user interface device, and d) saving the selected value for the programmable operating parameter in a portion of a storage device associated with the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device. A method and apparatus for selecting one or more programmable parameter sets from a portable storage medium and saving the selected sets to a local storage device associated with a power driven wheelchair and vice versa is also provided.

Abstract: Conformable support systems for conforming to a body are described in which a support assembly may be provided to support particular regions of the body where pressure ulcers tend to form. The conforming support may generally comprise a central portion, a first 5 side portion attached to the central portion, and a second side portion attached to the central portion opposite to the first side portion.

Abstract: The patient transfer acts as a combined sling and bed cover and includes a substantially rectangular sheet portion of a size to fit over a standard bed mattress and to which are attached a plurality of straps for coupling to a hoist. The patient transfer sheet is preferably made of a single-layered material which is breathable, strong and soft. The patient transfer sheet can act as a sling for transportation/repositioning of a patient as well as a replacement bed covering to replace conventional bed linen. The patient can thus be transported onto a bed without needing to remove the patient from the sling.

Abstract: A patient support system includes independently adjustable columns supporting a hinged bending or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for upwardly breaking and downwardly breaking orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions.

Abstract: A mat for collecting fluid spilled onto a floor that includes a body of small thickness relative to its length and width and having an upper surface defining a plurality of receptacles and a lower surface defining a plurality of diagonally oriented channels or passages that communicate with each other and with the drains. The diagonal channels have distal ends that terminate in an end wall and inner ends that communicate directly or indirectly with a collection channel, the collection channel having a discharge port that is connectable to a suction source. The diagonal channels are formed in two groups that are disposed symmetrically about the collection channel. The mat is especially suitable for use on the floor of an operating room, as well as the floor of a food processing or manufacturing facility where fluids are spilled.

Abstract: A head positioning device for use in radio therapy is described for positioning a patient's head. The head positioning device comprises a head plate for supporting a patient's head; a base plate for connection to a mechanical couch; and a head plate adjustment assembly connecting the head plate to the base plate wherein the head plate adjustment assembly is arranged to vary the relative pitch, yaw and roll of the head plate relative to the base plate. The head positioning device is arranged to be attached to a mechanical couch with the head plate and the head plate adjustment assembly cantilevered off the end of the couch and the head plate adjustment assembly suspended beneath the head plate and the base plate.

Abstract: A dental chair is provided including a chair assembly comprising a backrest, a seat, and a base; and at least one set of utility ports disposed on the chair, adjacent to the seat, each port having a quick release fitting for receiving a flexible conduit connected to a hand piece.

Abstract: A method of memorializing a deceased comprises the steps of receiving, subsequent to the death of the deceased and prior to a funeral or other memorial service for the deceased, a selection of a personal item of personal significance to the deceased, attaching the personal item to an ornament base, and attaching the ornament base, with the personal item attached thereto, to a casket for the deceased.

Abstract: Provided is a variable acupressure ball for a massaging apparatus having a drive motor, a reducer connected to the drive motor, and an acupressure unit which has at least one acupressure ball disposed on top of a body thereof and which is coupled to a rotational shaft of the reducer so as to be rotated together. The variable acupressure ball includes a shaft protruding from the top of the body of the acupressure unit, a cap-shaped acupressure ball loosely fitted around the shaft, and an elastic unit resiliently restoring an interval between the cap-shaped acupressure ball and the shaft. The acupressure ball formed on the acupressure unit is variable in position according to acupressure strength.

Abstract: An apparatus for closed kinetic chain muscle strengthening and/or rehabilitation of the shoulder joint and of the upper limb includes a device for positioning the user or patient, a working assembly having a resistor, allowing the user or patient to exert efforts, support device which connects the working assembly to the positioning device, and which is fitted with an adjustor for positioning and orienting the working assembly in space. The support device and also the adjustor are configured such that the resistor can be positioned, relative to the user or patient, above and laterally on the side of the limb to be worked, which is positioned outstretched, raised in the plane of the scapula until it is along the extension of the subcutaneous part of the spine of the scapula.

Abstract: A therapeutic mobility assistive device provides safe, stable ambulatory activity while reducing lower extremity swelling and improving muscle strength, balance, muscle coordination, nerve function and circulation, walking ability, walking endurance and gait training, all at the user's pace. The device is simple to use and flexible in design to accommodate varying body sizes. Whether in closed or first and second open positions via telescoping portions, the device prevents risk of fall and instability issues during periods of rest and ambulatory activity.

Abstract: Techniques associated with an implant system for imparting vibratory massage to tissue within a body is disclosed. In some examples, a device includes a case having an engaging surface configured to conform to a surface of a colon, a passage extending from an opening on the case to another opening on the case, the passage configured to receive a securing member, a vibration generator coupled to the case and configured to generate a vibration, and a power receiver coupled to the case, the power receiver comprising a receiving coil and configured to receive electrical energy from a remote source.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical waste disposal assembly (10) for disposing of fluid pharmaceutical waste comprises a fluid receiver body (219) and a fluid absorber (270A). The fluid receiver body (219) receives the fluid pharmaceutical waste. The fluid absorber (270A) is positioned within the fluid receiver body (219). The fluid absorber (270A) absorbs and retains the fluid pharmaceutical waste. The fluid absorber (270A) includes a plurality of levels (270L, 270M, 270U) that are spaced apart from one another. The plurality of levels (270L, 270M, 270U) can be oriented substantially vertically relative to one another so that the fluid pharmaceutical waste is distributed to each of the plurality of levels (270L, 270M, 270U) of the fluid absorber (270A).

Abstract: A filling aid. The filling aid includes a needle housing portion including at least one tab having a starting position and a filling position, and a filling needle cradle including a filling needle, the filling needle cradle slidable connected to the needle housing portion and having a starting position and a filling position, wherein when the at least one tab on the needle housing moves from a starting position to a filling position, the filling needle cradle slides from a starting position to a filling position, and wherein when the at least one tab on the needle housing moves from a filling position to a starting position, the filling needle cradle slides from a filling position to a starting position.

Abstract: A sealed flexible pouch having an aseptic interior, the sealed flexible pouch including a container for holding a pharmaceutical solution, one or more additional components, and a template frame, wherein the container and the one or more additional components are affixed to a template frame in a predetermined first arrangement and provided inside the sealed flexible pouch.

Abstract: A device for filling soluble containers is provided. The device includes an assembly for orienting a plurality of capsules having at least one sheet component for orienting capsules and at least one base component for guiding the oriented capsules to a following assembly. The assembly for orienting capsules can be adapted to a hand-held assembly for filling capsules or to a bench-top assembly for filling capsules. The assembly for filling capsules may further include a capsule-loading tray and a locking plate.

Abstract: Embodiments generally relate to a central monitoring system for a dispensing device in a healthcare network. In one embodiment, the central monitoring system includes one or more accessing devices configured to transmit a unique identity tag to the dispensing device, and one or more computing devices configured to receive an identity tag from one or more accessing devices. The computing device is further configured to receive a time stamp and create a report of the time of access of the dispensing device by the one or more accessing devices. In another embodiment, the central monitoring system is configured to transmit a real-time notification based on device data analyzed by the computing device.

Abstract: Embodiments generally relate to a pill box adapted for dispensing medication. In one embodiment, the pill box includes a base member, a carousel coupled to the base member and configured to rotate about the base member, one or more compartments, each compartment formed within the carousel and configured to store a single dose of medication with a lid configured to enclose the base and the carousel. The pill box ratchet advancement mechanism includes a resilient member and a stop member configured to facilitate motion of the carousel in a first direction and to restrict motion in a second direction, and a locking component configured to permit a pre-determined displacement of the carousel in the first direction and to limit further displacement in the first direction by locking the carousel.

Abstract: Partially collapsible bottles (10) for providing nutritional compositions and other fluids and methods of using the partially collapsible bottles are provided. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides a bottle (10) having a rigid wall (20), and a semi-rigid wall (30). The semi-rigid wall (30) is constructed and arranged to conform to an inner side of the rigid wall (20) in a collapsed form. The bottle (10) can be sized to hold any suitable volume such as, for example, from about 100 to 5000 mL.

Abstract: A teat includes a stem and a nipple, in which a structured area has an undulating surface on at least a partial region of the stem or nipple. The surface roughness of the undulating surface being greater than 100 ?m.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tissue conditioner for dental application and comprises a first composition comprising poly ethylmethacrylate (PEMA) and a second composition comprising acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), a hyperbranched polyester, and ethanol. The tissue conditioner of the present invention is able to improve the stability of viscoelasticity.

Abstract: Photo-curable compositions for artificial teeth and denture base and a method for manufacturing denture by a three-dimensional printing system are provided. The compositions include photo-curable organic compounds, surface modified nano-sized inorganic filler, photo-initiator, colorant, and stabilizer. The composition is in a viscous liquid state having 1500-5000 cps at ambient temperature and has a low viscosity of 50-500 cps at jetting temperature or dispensing temperature. The composition also has an excellent curing rate for three-dimensional printing. Using the compositions, denture having a distinctive denture base and a set of artificial teeth can be manufactured via an inkjet type or digital light process type three-dimensional printing according to Computer Aided Design (CAD) data.

Abstract: A dental resin temporary sealing material composition that is excellent in adhesion to the tooth substance and removability of the hardened material and has a preventive function of releasing various ions including a fluoride ion is provided. The adhesion to cavity walls can be improved and, since there is little dimensional change during hardening, excellent sealability in a cavity can be attained.