Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device including a plurality of electrodes for stimulation of both ventricles with application of an atrioventricular delay and of an interventricular delay, a processor configured to multidimensionally measure an interventricular conduction delay, and monitor the evolution of a patient's condition. For the multidimensional measurement of the interventricular conduction delay, the device produces stimulation of one of the ventricles and collects, in the other ventricle, two endocardial electrogram signals on separate respective channels, giving two respective temporal components. Both temporal components are combined in one single parametric 2D characteristic representative of the cardiac cycle, and a comparison is made with reference descriptors for deriving an index representative of the evolution of the patient's condition.

Abstract: An apparatus for coupling to a plurality of electrodes implantable at a plurality of tissue sites of a heart chamber of a subject. The apparatus including a stimulus circuit configured to provide an electrical cardiac pacing stimulation to the plurality of electrodes, a switching circuit configured to select electrodes of the plurality of electrodes for electrical coupling to the stimulus circuit, and a control circuit including a heart rate sub-circuit configured to determine heart rate; and a pacing site activation sub-circuit configured to selectively change which electrodes of the plurality of electrodes are used to provide the electrical cardiac pacing stimulation therapy according to the determined heart rate.

Abstract: Systems and methods for communicating between medical devices. In on example, a medical device comprises a communication module for communicating with an implantable leadless cardiac pacemaker through body tissue and a controller operatively coupled to the communications module. The controller may be configured to: identify intrinsic heartbeats; provide a blanking period after each occurrence of an intrinsic heartbeat; and communicate with the implantable leadless cardiac pacemaker via the communication module only during times between the blanking periods.

Abstract: A system, including: an implantable neural stimulator including electrodes, at least one antenna and an electrode interface; a radio-frequency (RF) pulse generator module comprising an antenna module configured to send an input signal to the antenna in the implantable neural stimulator through electrical radiative coupling, the input signal containing electrical energy and polarity assignment information that designates polarity assignments of the electrodes in the implantable neural stimulator; and wherein the implantable neural stimulator is configured to: control the electrode interface such that the electrodes have the polarity assignments designated by the polarity assignment information, create one or more electrical pulses suitable for modulation of neural tissue using the electrical energy contained in the input signal, and supply the electrical pulses to the electrodes through the electrode interface such that the electrodes apply the electrical pulses to the neural tissue with the polarity assignmen

Abstract: Various methods for laser welding biocompatible material for use in implantable medical devices are disclosed. A method for laser processing includes applying a laser beam to a biocompatible material comprising at least 85% by weight zirconium oxide (ZrO2) or “zirconia” in an oxygen-free environment and depleting the material of oxygen. The depletion of oxygen converts the zirconium oxide to elemental zirconium at an interface where the material is applied to the elemental zirconium. In one embodiment, the present invention provides for an implantable medical device or component thereof made of a biocompatible material comprising zirconium oxide. The device includes a substrate that has an intrinsic conductive pathway comprising elemental zirconium that extends from a first surface to a second surface of the substrate.

Abstract: On aspect is a housing for an implantable medical device, including a first portion of metal and having integrated features and a second portion also of metal. The first and second portions are sealed together thereby forming the housing with an internal space that is within first and second portions and that fully contains the features such that they are hermetically sealed relative to an external space outside the housing.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described, including apparatus for pacing a heart of a subject. The apparatus includes an implantable pulse generator (IPG) and a coiled lead connected to the IPG. The coiled lead includes a smaller-diameter coiled portion, a lumen of which having a first coil-lumen-diameter, and a larger-diameter coiled portion electrically in series with the smaller-diameter coiled portion, a lumen of the larger-diameter coiled portion having a second coil-lumen-diameter that is larger than the first coil-lumen-diameter. A perpendicular distance from a central longitudinal axis of the smaller-diameter coiled portion to the lumen of the larger-diameter coiled portion is greater than an outer radius of the smaller-diameter coiled portion, when the central longitudinal axis of the smaller-diameter coiled portion is parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the larger-diameter coiled portion. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A system for transferring power to, and communicating with, at least one body-implantable active device includes an external power transfer system associated with an external device disposed outside of a body, operable to transfer power through a dermis layer to each body-implantable active device, and communicate data to and from each body-implantable active device, and also includes a power receiving system associated with each body-implantable active device, operable to receive power transferred from the external power transfer system, and communicate data to and from the external power transfer system. The body-implantable active device may include an implantable neurostimulation system.

Abstract: A portable medical device having a reliable readiness indicator. Embodiments provide a reliable readiness indicator with an active clasp that holds the garment in place. The clasp is enabled by the defibrillator when it is ready for use. If the clasp is not enabled the garment cannot be worn comfortably, and it becomes apparent to the patient that steps need to be taken to make the device ready for use.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a cardiac condition in a human or animal patient comprises contacting an area of skin spanning the chest area of the patient with at least two patches or electrode paddles that apply low voltages and currents in a rotational manner to pre-stimulate that area, followed by applying a high voltage shock in rapid succession through the patient's heart through at least two electrode pad patches or paddles, wherein an amplifier-based external defibrillation cardioversion system is used. Also, an external pacing system is employed using ascending ramp or any arbitrary ascending or level waveform for transcutaneous pacing which employ a constant current delivery mode. Treatable conditions include atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial tachycardia (AT), ventricular fibrillation (VF), and ventricular tachycardia (VT).

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed that identify a type of cable coupled to a receptacle of a defibrillator and that activate one or both of an ECG monitoring module and an energy storage circuit based at least in part on the identified cable type. The cable-type identification may allow a defibrillator to, for example, operate in either or both of an ECG monitoring mode and/or a therapy mode, based on the type of cable that is coupled to the defibrillator. The disclosed devices, systems, and methods can monitor an ECG of a patient and deliver defibrillation therapy to the patient, depending on the type of cable coupled to the defibrillator and/or the type of detected ECG signal of the patient.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (“WCD”) system may output an opening human-perceptible indication, after detecting a shockable cardiac arrhythmia but before validating it. This may succeed in informing the patient that the WCD system is working, and in particular analyzing a just-detected cardiac arrhythmia. The information may give comfort and confidence to the patient who may be conscious, and be experiencing only ventricular tachycardia but not ventricular fibrillation.

Abstract: A wearable patch-type automatic defibrillator attachable to a region of a patient near the patient's heart includes a battery which stores electrical energy for defibrillation, a controller which controls the battery, electrocardiogram (ECG) electrodes, and defibrillation electrodes. The controller analyzes ECG signals of the patient received through the ECG electrodes, and automatically provides the patient with the electrical energy stored in the battery through the defibrillation electrodes when defibrillation is needed according to a result of the analysis.

Abstract: Components of wearable cardiac defibrillator (WCD) systems, software, and methods are provided. A WCD system includes a support structure that a patient can wear and electrodes that can capture at least two of the patient's ECG signals. A component includes an energy storage module that can store an electrical charge, a discharge circuit, and a processor that can make a shock/no shock determination, and cause the discharge circuit to discharge the stored charge, if the determination is to shock. In some embodiments, the processor discards at least one of the ECG signals prior to making the shock/no shock determination. The determination can be made from the remaining one or more ECG signals. In some embodiments, the processor makes an aggregate shock/no shock determination from two or more of the ECG signals.

Abstract: In the treatment of a tumor (126) with radiation therapy (122) is enhanced by a weak magnetic field (130), the field strength time sequence of exposure and shape and contour of the magnetic field are varied to achieve desired results. In one separate aspect, exposure to a magnetic field (130) is continued after exposure to a free radical-creating therapy is ceased or diminished, thereby increasing the lifetimes of free radicals that have already been created. In another preferred embodiment a magnetic field (13) is strategically placed to avoid extending the lives of free radicals in tissue through which a free radical-creating beam must pass, to reach a tumor. This application discloses quantitative parameters for field strength and exposure time to create concentrations and reactivity of free radicals, including long-lived free radicals and discloses the use of shaped, contoured, and designed electromagnetic fields. A treatment planning station (200) is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for simultaneously providing an infra-red laser beam and a concentrated uni-polar, pulsed electromagnetic field to a region of interest in the body of a patient are disclosed. The apparatus produces the infrared laser beam from a laser diode and the pulsed electromagnetic field from an electrically conductive coil. The infra-red laser beam and the pulsed electromagnetic field are produced concurrently along a common axis. A focusing magnet is provided to concentrate the lines of flux so that they extend along the laser beam. The apparatus includes a body of Mu-metal shielding surrounding the components of the apparatus except for one pole of the coil from which the lines of flux of the electromagnetic field extend to further concentrate the field and render it effectively uni-polar.

Abstract: In certain variations, systems and/or methods for electromagnetic induction therapy are provided. One or more ergonomic or body contoured applicators may be included. The applicators include one or more conductive coils configured to generate an electromagnetic or magnetic field focused on a target nerve, muscle or other body tissues positioned in proximity to the coil. One or more sensors may be utilized to detect stimulation and to provide feedback about the efficacy of the applied electromagnetic induction therapy. A controller may be adjustable to vary a current through a coil to adjust the magnetic field focused upon the target nerve, muscle or other body tissues based on the feedback provide by a sensor or by a patient. In certain systems or methods, pulsed magnetic fields may be intermittently applied to a target nerve, muscle or tissue without causing habituation.

Abstract: The application is directed to devices and methods where one or more magnetic or magnetizable implants provides therapeutic benefits to a patient. The implant may be useful for expanding the range of motion of joints or dynamically providing different responses to changing conditions in the body where the implant is placed. An electromagnet is placed on or in a bone on one side of a joint, and another electromagnet or magnetically active material is placed on or in a bone on the opposing side of the joint. The electromagnet may be continuously energized to relieve pressure in the joint space, or may be energized in response to forces applied to the joint.

Abstract: A magnetic field applicator for the magnetic stimulation of body tissues comprising a core carrier (1) in which a plurality of magnetically conductive flow guide pieces comprised of layered iron sheets is disposed, upon which at least one live coil (3) is disposed that generates an upward-emitted magnetic field having a plurality of field line bundles (8), wherein the magnetic field applicator comprises a polygonal coil (3) that is wound as a pancake coil in one or more planes in such a way that the direction of the individual coil conductors (27) is selected such that the coil conductors (27) run in pieces in a predominantly straight line and perpendicular to the plane of the flow guide pieces that are made of layered sector iron cores (5-8).

Abstract: Stimulation of target cells using light, e.g., in vivo or in vitro, is implemented using a variety of methods and devices. One example involves a vector for delivering a light-activated NpHR-based molecule comprising a nucleic acid sequence that codes for light-activated NpHR-based molecule and a promoter. Either a high expression of the molecule manifests a toxicity level that is less than about 75%, or the light-activated NpHR-based proteins are expressed using at least two NpHR-based molecular variants. Each of the variants characterized in being useful for expressing a light-activated NpHR-based molecule that responds to light by producing an inhibitory current to dissuade depolarization of the neuron. Other aspects and embodiments are directed to systems, methods, kits, compositions of matter and molecules for ion pumps or for controlling inhibitory currents in a cell (e.g., in in vivo and in vitro environments).

Abstract: A system and method for developing radiation therapy plans and a system and method for developing a radiation therapy plan to be used in a radiation therapy treatment is disclosed. A radiation therapy plan is developed using a registration of medical images. The registration is based on identifying landmarks located within inner body structures.

Abstract: A method for determining a radiation therapy dose distribution includes selecting a treatment type from a database. An organ at risk (OAR) distance to target map is determined. The OAR distance to target map includes distances to a target organ for respective portions of an OAR, and the OAR distances are determined from a segmented patient organ image. A cohort average dose distance to target histogram is selected from the database. Dose values to the portions of the OAR are assigned to form a first 3D dose distribution map, where the dose values are from the selected cohort average dose distance to target histogram. A second 3D dose distribution map is determined based on a field arrangement determined by the treatment type, and the first 3D dose distribution map. A dose distance to target histogram is calculated using the second 3D dose distribution map and the distance to target map.

Abstract: First ions and second ions that are heavier than first ions are generated in an ion source. One kind of ions of the first ions and second ions is injected into an accelerator by action of a switching magnet and accelerated in the accelerator. An ion beam including the one kind of ions is extracted from the accelerator to a beam transport system and a tumor volume of a patient is irradiated with the ion beam from an irradiation nozzle. In the irradiation of the ion beam, a tumor volume depth and the largest underwater range of each ion species are compared, and an ion species in which the tumor volume depth becomes the longest underwater range or lower is injected into the accelerator, and accelerated by the accelerator. The tumor volume is irradiated with the ion species.

Abstract: Methods and systems for monitoring an automated radiopharmaceutical infusion apparatus are disclosed. A user interface graphically representing infusion apparatus components may be presented on a display device. Multiple sensors may be arranged within an infusion apparatus to measure property information associated with infusion apparatus components, including fluid pathways. The property information may include radioactivity and flow information. The property information may be compared with expected results. If the property information does not match the expected results, a fault condition may be indicated on the display device. The user interface may provide information and/or functions to manage the fault conditions.

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

Abstract: A radiation system includes: a first support; a first structure rotatably coupled to the first support so that the first structure is rotatable about a first axis relative to the first support; a second structure rotatably coupled to the first structure so that the second structure is rotatable about a second axis that forms a non-zero angle relative to the first structure; and a first radiation source connected to the second structure; wherein the first structure and the second structure are parts of a capsule for accommodating at least a portion of a patient.

Abstract: A rotatable targeting magnet apparatus and method of use thereof is described where the rotatable targeting magnet rotates independently of a beamline arc at the end of the beamline arc, where the arc is after an accelerator and before the patient in a cancer therapy system. The rotatable targeting magnet directs the charged particle beam, such as vertically, using applied current to the targeting magnet while rotation of the magnet allows scanning across the tumor. Rotation of the patient relative to the charged particle allows distribution of trailing Bragg peak energy within and/or circumferentially about the tumor.

Abstract: A treatment device and methods for HIFU treatment of thyroid and parathyroid disorders are provided. The treatment device comprises the first sensor for detecting swallowing motion and the second sensor for tracking the motion of the thyroid and parathyroid tissue with ultrasound imaging. Thus, the treatment device allows for safe and non-invasive use of HIFU on thyroid and parathyroid tissue of patients by synchronizing HIFU pulse delivery with patient swallowing and/or directing the applicator of HIFU energy to follow the appropriate tissue when the patient moves.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least 3 different diols, wherein said diols have the general structure (CH2)nH2O2, wherein n is the number of CH2 and being between 3 to 10, in a total amount of from about 0.1 to about 50% (v/v), a method for producing the composition and its use, such as in therapy. The composition may be a pharmaceutical, cosmetic, antimicrobial or preservative composition. The composition is useful in inactivating microorganisms or preventing their growth.

Abstract: A safety-harness attachment for attaching a safety harness thereto.

Abstract: A self-locking device for a mountaineer or a speleologist climbing up a rope is provided herein. The device includes a main body having an inner face with a sliding seat for the rope. The sliding seat is partially defined by a part of the body of the device folded upon itself and partially defined at a bottom and laterally by the inner face of the body of the device. The device includes a cam member associated with the body and able to tilt around an axis X from an open position to a position holding the rope. The self-locking device also includes one or more pulleys associated with the body. The one or more pulleys are arranged so that a longitudinal axis Z lies on a plane parallel to a plane a of major extension of the body and perpendicular to a sliding direction of the rope.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, a fireproofing system for protecting an elongate member, comprising at least one inner layer configured to at least partially wrap around itself to form an inner passage, the at least one inner layer configured to generally resist heat, and an outer shell or member defining an interior opening, wherein the first layer is configured to be positioned within the interior opening of the outer shell or outer member, wherein an elongate member is configured to pass through the inner passage.

Abstract: A mounting bracket for a fire extinguisher which has a base configured for attachment to a vehicle or seat; an endcap pivotably mounted to the base, wherein the endcap includes at least one receptacle which is configured to accommodate a fire extinguisher tank; and a neck clamp configured to engage a bottle neck on a fire extinguisher.

Abstract: A firefighting or rescue apparatus includes a ladder to which a recovery winch is operably mounted so that the winch can be used to move, upright, lift or otherwise manipulate target objects at an emergency location. The ladder can include a pulley detachably mounted to the ladder distal from the winch, the pulley adapted to suspend a cable extending from the winch at an upper end. In operation, the winch moves along with the ladder as the ladder moves, so that the winch and pulley can be strategically located over a target object for movement thereof. The apparatus can include a remote control connected to the winch for operation of the winch by a user.

Abstract: A flame mitigation device (26), along with associated systems and methods, is disclosed. More particularly, a flame mitigation device (26) has at least one sensor (25) configured to sense a flame (21), and at least one suppression agent (28) release device configured to release a flame suppression agent into the projected flame path when the flame is sensed. The sensor (25) may sense the flame either directly or indirectly. A flame mitigation system (26) is also disclosed, wherein the system includes an enclosure (22) and at least one pressure release device configured to release a flame from the enclosure. The system (26) may include at least one sensor (25) configured to sense the flame (21), and a device configured to release a suppression agent (28). A method of mitigating a flame in a combustible material system is also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a polymer composition, comprising: water; a water-soluble polymer; and solid particulates of a sequestering agent. The composition may be used for decontaminating, cleaning and/or washing substrates contaminated with contaminants and/or contaminated materials.

Abstract: An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide users with multiple modes of training by transforming the device into different configurations. Users can exercise their cardiovascular endurance by using the device in its jump rope configuration. Users can also engage in muscular resistance training using the same device configured to one of multiple possible resistance training configurations. Resistance training configurations provide a method of suspending users' bodyweight such that they can train their muscular strength capacity by exerting themselves against the force of gravity. Resistance can be selected from nearly zero resistance to a user's full body weight, with the ability to easily adjust between exercises and between users, and the ability to easily transform the device between configurations to provide for versatility and ease-of-use.

Abstract: A cable exercise machine includes a first pull cable and a second pull cable incorporated into a frame. Each of the first pull cable and the second pull cable are linked to at least one resistance mechanism. The at least one resistance mechanism includes a flywheel and a magnetic unit arranged to resist movement of the flywheel.

Abstract: An exerciser comprises a first block, a second block, a first torque member, a second torque member, and a damper assembly. The first block has an axle pivotally coupling with the second block. The first torque member is arranged at a first position or a second position of the first block. The second torque member is arranged at a first position and a second position of the second block. The damper assembly couples with the first block and a second block. The forces exerted on the first torque member and the second torque member will increase or decrease the distance between the first torque member and the second torque member.

Abstract: A weightlifting apparatus having free weight simulation and a safety mechanism includes at least one upright support having a bar engaging pulley assembly and a weight engaging pulley assembly. The upright support includes a universal joint for allowing the upright support to pivot. A lifting bar having an end movably coupled to the bar engaging pulley assembly is also included. The lifting bar includes a grip portion having switch contact disposed therein that is engaged when the grip portion is depressed. A clutch assembly is provided for enabling the bar engaging pulley assembly and weight engaging pulley assembly to move together in unison when a voltage is supplied by engaging the grip portion. Disengagement of the grip portion opens the switch contact and causes voltage to be cut off from the clutch assembly, thereby disengaging the weight support element and the lifting bar.

Abstract: A multi-purpose exercise bench having a versatile resistance accessory configurable for use to provide weight-training resistance in a variety of exercises is provided. The multi-purpose exercise bench comprises: an elongated frame configured to rest on a flat floor in a stable manner; a lower seat portion supported on the frame; the resistance accessory mounted to the frame, the resistance accessory comprising: a pad movably mounted to the frame to be movable between a first position and a second position; a locking mechanism operable to lock the pad in either of the first position and the second position; and a plurality of resistance bands attached to the pad. A multi-purpose exercise system includes the multi-purpose exercise bench and an exercise bar defining at least one groove dimensioned to receive at least one receiver ring attached to at least one of the resistance bands.

Abstract: An electromechanical device for simulation of physical exercise with legs and arms includes two pedals mounted on two contiguous pantographs, with parallel supporting arms that are positioned in a predominantly vertical sense, with an orthogonal junction and parallel arms which are articulated, in a predominantly horizontal sense, onto the frame of the device and which always move in opposing directions left and right, through traverses which are articulated on vertical and horizontal axles, respectively, connected to vertical and horizontal parallel bars by means of risers.

Abstract: A variable stiffness treadmill system having a variable stiffness mechanism, a split-belt treadmill, a counterweight system, and a body weight support for supporting an individual and varying the stiffness below the individual on the treadmill for research and rehabilitation.

Abstract: Motion resistance apparatuses and methods of use and, more specifically, leg-actuated motion resistance apparatuses configured for positioning beneath a fixed surface and for engagement by a seated user.

Abstract: A locking device for an exercise system may include at least one moveable assembly that is in communication with a resistance mechanism. The locking device has an actuating device for selectively engaging the locking device, a locking member having a contact portion, wherein the contact portion of the locking member is not in contact with the resistance mechanism of the exercise system when the actuating device is in a first position, thereby allowing movement of the at least one moveable assembly, and wherein the contact portion of the locking member is in contact with the resistance mechanism of the exercise system when the actuating device is in a second position, thereby preventing movement of the at least one moveable assembly.

Abstract: An elliptical exercise device has a frame and guide link pivotally attached thereto. A foot support link is pivotally connected to a lower attachment point of each guide link so that when the guide links pivot relative to the frame, foot receiving areas of the foot support links move in a path of travel having a horizontal component of motion. A cam drive has cams supported for rotation about an axis of rotation and pivoting arms each engaging one of the cams such that rotation of the cams causes movement of the pivoting arms. Flexible elements couple the foot support links to the pivoting arms such that rotation of the cams moves the foot receiving areas of the respective foot support links in a path of travel having a vertical component of motion.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising: a foot support, a user interface that includes a visual display, the foot support being movable by the user on the frame back and forth through any one of a plurality of complete, reproducible and different arc segments of a master arcuate path, the foot support being interconnected to a selection device that enables the user to select any one of the plurality of arc segments, one or more detectors adapted to detect one or more of force, energy or power exerted by the user over time on the foot support or distance or velocity of travel of the foot support or resistance assembly during the course of the user's performance of all or a portion of an exercise cycle, the visual display displaying a visually recognizable format of one or more of the force, energy, power, distance, time or velocity.

Abstract: An exercise chair includes a frame and a seat rotatably coupled to the frame. First and second front support members are coupled to the frame in laterally spaced part relation and first and second rear support members are coupled to the frame in laterally spaced part relation, the first and second front support members and the first and second rear support members cooperating to support the frame above a surface.

Abstract: An oral function device. The oral function device may include an elongated hollow handle with a flange disposed around a first opening of the elongated hollow handle. The oral function device may include an elongated chew piece fixated by the end plug to prevent the elongated chew piece from falling off the elongated hollow handle. The elongated chew piece may rotate freely inside the elongated hollow handle.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for an oropharyngeal exercise device. The oropharyngeal exercise device has interchangeable parts comprising complete mouthpieces, complete springs, a housing, a progress gauge, and a stopper. The oropharyngeal exercise device and its interchangeable parts are organized and stored in a standardized kit. The kit allows a patient to take the exercise device on the go and makes home-health treatment of oropharyngeal disorders easier and more accessible. Patients can customize the exercise type and resistance. A variety of mouthpieces also allows patients to perform not only isometric exercises, but also perform dynamic exercises to increase flexibility and range of motion.