Abstract: The present invention provides methods comprising the in vivo delivery of small nucleic acid molecules capable of mediating RNA interference and reducing the expression of myostatin, wherein the small nucleic acid molecules are introduced to a subject by systemic administration. Specifically, the invention relates to methods comprising the in vivo delivery of short interfering nucleic acid (siNA) molecules that target a myostatin gene expressed by a subject, wherein the siNA molecule is conjugated to a lipophilic moiety, such as cholesterol. The myostatin siNA conjugates that are delivered as per the methods disclosed are useful to modulate the in vivo expression of myostatin, increase muscle mass and/or enhance muscle performance. Use of the disclosed methods is further indicated for treating musculoskeletal diseases or disorders and/or diseases or disorders that result in conditions in which muscle is adversely affected.

Abstract: [Problem] To provide a novel near-infrared quencher. [Solution] A compound represented by general formula (I) or a salt thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to X-ray examinations and to the improvement of patient safety during such. More specifically the invention relates to X-ray diagnostic compositions having low concentrations of iodine and an optimized amount of electrolytes. The invention further relates to methods of X-ray examinations wherein a body is administered with an X-ray diagnostic composition comprising a low concentration of iodine and irradiated with a radiation dose.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compounds that may be used for binding and imaging tau aggregates and related beta-sheet aggregates including, besides others, beta-amyloid aggregates or alpha-synuclein aggregates.

Abstract: Methods and compositions utilizing ether and alkyl phospholipid ether analog compounds for treating cancer and imaging, monitoring, and detecting cancer stem cells in humans.

Abstract: The invention is a novel method of sterilizing bone and soft tissues intended for human transplantation. In one embodiment the process includes steps of subjecting transplants to high hydrostatic pressures of aqueous fluid to which chlorhexidine gluconate or similar sterilizing chemicals have been added.

Abstract: A container for washing, sterilization, transportation and sterile storage of articles for sterilization is provided. The container includes a sleeve and a frame adapted to receive articles for sterilization. The container includes at least one filtered opening to permit communication between the sterilization apparatus and the sterilization chamber for the communication of steam and air. In a first configuration, a front and rear wall of the frame engage the sleeve to create a sterilization chamber. The container may be stacked and stored in any orientation. In a second configuration, the frame rests or nests on top of the sleeve to permit access to and use of the sterilized articles. The container, may include one or a plurality of openings for communication between a sterilization apparatus and the sterilization chamber and one or more filters adjacent to the pluralities of openings.

Abstract: A system for providing ultraviolet treatment to light absorbing liquids, such as biological liquids in a medical instrument, is disclosed. The system can include an ultraviolet impenetrable housing configured to enclose a portion of the medical instrument containing the biological fluid. At least one ultraviolet radiation source is integrated within the housing that emits ultraviolet radiation towards the medical instrument and the biological fluid. A control unit is configured to direct the ultraviolet radiation source to treat the biological fluid with ultraviolet radiation.

Abstract: Apparatuses having an ultraviolet light lamp are disclosed, where ultraviolet light is projected exterior to the apparatus and, in some embodiments, to a region 2-4 feet from a floor of a room in which the apparatus is arranged. In some cases, an apparatus includes a mobile carriage supporting the lamp and the apparatus is configured such that the lamp is not moveable beyond vertical planes aligned with a casing of the mobile carriage. Additional or alternative embodiments of apparatuses include a housing transparent to ultraviolet light surrounding the lamp and an exhaust duct extending from a gas outlet of the housing into a support structure that has an outlet disposed along its lower half portion or its bottom surface. Other embodiments of apparatuses include a pulsed ultraviolet light lamp and a sensor system to monitor and determine when to replace the pulsed lamp based on pulse count.

Abstract: A room monitoring system includes a plurality of in-room units. The in-room units collect information relating to a clean or dirty status of a plurality of patient rooms and/or equipment in the rooms. A monitoring station receives clean or dirty status information from the in-room units and determines which rooms are clean, and ready for a patient, which are dirty and in need of cleaning, and which are occupied.

Abstract: An injectable sterilized aqueous composition including at least one hyaluronic acid, at least one polyol and at least one local anesthetic chosen from the group made of benzocaine, chloroprocaine, procaine, etidocaine, aptocaine, chlorobutanol, diamocaine, dyclonine, guafecainol, polidocanol, mepivacaine, prilocaine, articaine, bupivacaine, ropivacaine, tetracaine and salts thereof and isolated isomers thereof. The invention also relates to a process for adapting the rheological properties of a heat sterilized injectable aqueous composition. The invention also relates to a process for producing an injectable sterilized aqueous composition according to the invention, and also to uses of said injectable sterilized aqueous composition according to the invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel collagen materials and, specifically, collagen membranes, tubes and threads. Said materials combine enhanced properties of resilience and strength. The invention also relates to a method for preparing collagen materials using acid fibrous collagen comprising coagulation and, optionally, cross-linking of the collagen in the presence of ammonia gas.

Abstract: Engineered human tissue constructs are provided that are suitable for use in making humanized animals for use in pharmaceutical development. Humanized animals having the constructs implanted in vivo are provided. Methods of making and using the tissue-engineered constructs and humanized animals are also provided.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing gelled, solubilized extracellular matrix (ECM) compositions useful as cell growth scaffolds. Also provided are compositions prepared according to the methods as well as uses for the compositions. In one embodiment a device, such as a prosthesis, is provided which comprises an inorganic matrix into which the gelled, solubilized ECM is dispersed to facilitate in-growth of cells into the ECM and thus adaptation and/or attachment of the device to a patient.

Abstract: Novel peptide-based hydrogels, composed of short aromatic peptides (e.g., homodipeptides of aromatic amino acid residues) are disclosed. The hydrogels are characterized by remarkable rigidity and biocompatibility. Further disclosed are uses of these hydrogels in applications such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, cosmetics, implantation, packaging and the like. Further disclosed are processes and kits for preparing these hydrogels.

Abstract: A tissue scaffold includes a first film having a plurality of cell openings and a second film adjacent the first film and having a plurality of cell openings larger than the cell openings of the first film. The cell openings of the first film interconnect with the cell openings of the second film to define pathways extending through the first and second films.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a three-dimensional cell culture system which can be used to culture a variety of different cells (Human mesenchymal stem cells, Human fibroblast, Keratinocytes, fibroblast differentiated form mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and keratinocytes differentiated form mesenchymal stem cells in vitro) in vitro for continued periods of time. In the present invention, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow or umbilical cord are inoculated and grown on a pre-established scaffold or matrix made up of chitosan and gelatin. The developed tissue constructs contain cells, growth factors, cytokines and other regulatory factors secreted by cells. The developed bioengineered tissue constructs provide the support, growth factors and essential cytokines for wound healing. Developed tissue construct useful in the treatment of burns wound, diabetic foot ulcer wound and type of chronic skin wounds. It is helpful in healing and regeneration of skin tissue.

Abstract: The present invention provides formulations comprising polymers and therapeutics and methods for their manufacture. The present invention also provides medical devices coated with such formulations and methods for their manufacture. The drug-loaded polymer formulations, solutions, and films tailor the drug release characteristics for medical devices.

Abstract: A method to make a PTFE skived film capable of exhibiting, with a single layer, sliding properties, barrier properties with regard to a liquid contact surface, and excellent tear resistance during injection molding. This skived film is obtained by cutting a polytetrafluoroethylene block or a modified polytetrafluoroethylene block subjected to a thermal fusion treatment under reduced pressure or subjected to a pressurized thermal fusion treatment after being subjected to fusion under reduced pressure.

Abstract: Absorbable barrier composites are designed for modulated gas and water permeability depending on clinical use and are formed of at least two physicochemically distinct components, one of which is a film adjoined to a knitted mesh and/or electrostatically spun, non-woven fabric. Depending on the physicochemical properties of the barrier composite, it can be used in neurological and urinogenital surgical procedures as well as tissue engineering and/or as physical barriers to prevent adhesion formation following several types of surgical procedures.

Abstract: A braided polymeric scaffold, made at least in part from a bioresorbable material is deployed on a catheter that uses a push-pull mechanism to deploy the scaffold. A drug coating is disposed on the scaffold. A plurality of scaffold segments on a catheter is also disclosed.

Abstract: A portable system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a surgical wound includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject and a collection canister in fluid communication with the wound dressing. The canister includes a first vacuum chamber for drawing a vacuum and a second fluid chamber for collecting fluids removed from the wound dressing under the vacuum. The vacuum chamber may have a vacuum and a power source. The canister further includes a hydrophobic membrane separating the first and the second fluid vacuum chambers. The hydrophobic membrane is dimensioned to span a major portion of the cross-sectional area of the canister. The hydrophobic membrane may be dimensioned to substantially span an internal dimension of the collection canister. The hydrophobic membrane may include one or more outwardly extending lobes. The outwardly extending lobes may be arranged in staggered relation.

Abstract: Devices with a motor that, when connected to a cannula, rotates the cannula while removing adipose tissue from a surgical site. The device provides a direct pathway, for aspirated adipose tissue, from a tip of the cannula to a location where tubing is attached to the device. The pathway does not pass through the motor that provides the angular rotation of the cannula. Instead, the path for the adipose tissue passes through a removable coupler that is connected to the cannula. The cannula may also have a direct flow path for adipose tissue that does not pass through the motor.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for testing at least one function of a medical functional device which is inserted in and connected and compressed with a medical treatment apparatus, and/or a function of this treatment apparatus, wherein between a hydraulic device or a pneumatic unit of the treatment apparatus and the functional device at least one fluid communication is established. It further relates to a detection device which is programmed and/or configured for executing the method according to the invention as well as a medical treatment apparatus which comprises at least one detection device and/or is in signal transmission or is connected for signal transmission with it, a digital storage medium, a computer program product as well as a computer program.

Abstract: A reserve zirconium phosphate module for continuing dialysis in the event the capacity of the original zirconium phosphate module is exceeded. The sorbent cartridge can have a sensor for detecting when the capacity of the zirconium phosphate material has been exceeded, and a valve assembly for diverting the flow of spent dialysate into the reserve module when needed. Any of the modules of the sorbent cartridge can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein recharged.

Abstract: A sorbent cartridge comprising one or more detachable modules. The sorbent cartridge can have one or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein recharged. The sorbent cartridge can include a module containing an anion exchange resin, such as zirconium oxide, downstream of zirconium phosphate in the sorbent cartridge to recapture phosphate anions that leach out of the zirconium phosphate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a blood filter, a system comprising a blood filter and the use of a blood filter or system for the removal of substances from whole blood or blood components. According to the invention, a blood filter comprises an inlet (2), an outlet (3) and at least first fibers disposed between the inlet (2) and the outlet (3) for filtering a fluid being communicated between the inlet (2) and the outlet (3), wherein each of the first fibers comprises at least one groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the fiber.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a gravity-fed blood purifier device for removing waste particles from blood. In one embodiment, the blood purifier device includes a pair of end plates and a first cylindrical tube located between the end plates. The blood purifier device also includes a porous tube contained within the space defined by the first cylindrical tube. An inlet provides unpurified red blood cells into blood purifier device. An electrode generates a negative potential across the porous tube to repel red blood cells so that the waste particles pass through the porous tube and the red blood cells do not. An outlet can be coupled to one of the end plates to receive the purified red blood cells.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in dialyzing a patient comprising a hemodialysis catheter comprising an elongated body having a proximal and a distal end, wherein the distal end terminates in a substantially planar distal end surface; first and second lumens extending from the proximal end to the distal end, wherein the lumens terminate on the distal end surface in first and second mouths, arranged in side-by-side configuration, and further wherein the lumens are separated by a septum; and first and second longitudinal slots formed in the distal end of the elongated body and communicating with the interiors of the lumens, the slots opening on the distal end surface; wherein the slots each have a length and a width, relative to the dimensions of the lumens and the rate of blood flow to be passed through the hemodialysis catheter, so as to minimize undesirable recirculation of dialyzed blood.

Abstract: A marking tool for use in the context of radiological and other medical imaging is disclosed. The product is a marking tool for distributing an imaging material onto a patient's skin to mark that part of the patient's body for imaging. The imaging technician then knows the area of medical interest, such as an internal injury, and can image that area more accurately. The imaging material shows up on a resulting medical image such as an X-Ray, CT Scan, or MRI to direct a radiology professional to the most important area on the image for diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fat graft injection device, which comprises: an injection unit having a connection end and a terminal; The injection unit is operated by robotic arm system in controlled speed, multiple layers, multiple lines, a storage unit connected to the injection unit; and a pump unit connected to the storage unit, wherein the storage unit is between the injection unit and contains fat grafts. Fat grafts in the storage unit are injected into the subcutaneous layer through the injection unit by the pump unit with the guiding of navigation system, thus completing the fat graft injection, with accurate and effective, manner without exhausted back and forth surgeon's arm movement.

Abstract: A micropump according to the invention uses axially oriented pistons to define a pump volume. Translating the pistons axially with respect to each other within a pump housing draws a metered amount of fluid into the pump volume from a reservoir port for delivery to a cannula port when the space is collapsed. Radially situated seals on the pistons cooperate with the axial movement to close off and open the cannula port and the reservoir port respectively at different positions of the piston stroke.

Abstract: An infusion system includes a double action infusion pump. The pump includes a cylinder and a reciprocating piston received within the cylinder, the reciprocating piston separating a first pump chamber from a second pump chamber of the cylinder. A reciprocating motor is coupled with the reciprocating piston, and the first and second pump chambers alternate between filling and evacuating conditions with reciprocation of the reciprocating piston through operation of the reciprocating motor, and the speed of reciprocation is varied to provide a continuous output of fluid between the first and second pump chambers. A fluid source and a catheter are optionally coupled with the double action infusion pump. The catheter includes one or more infusion ports near a catheter distal portion, and the one or more infusion ports receive and expel the continuous output of fluid from the double action infusion pump.

Abstract: A system for occlusion detection could include a syringe pump for a syringe containing a medication, wherein the syringe includes a plunger and the syringe pump includes a plunger driver. A bendable element could be integrally formed with the plunger driver, and a force sensor could also be integrally formed with the plunger driver. Upon occurrence of an occlusion, the plunger would exert a force backwardly against the bendable element, thereby deflecting the bendable element into contact with the force sensor to thereby generate a signal indicating the occurrence of the occlusion.

Abstract: Valves, valved fluid transfer devices and ambulatory infusion devices including the same.

Abstract: The invention inter alia relates to a dispense interface for an ejection device. The dispense interface comprises at least two inlets, at least one outlet and a part having multiple portions; wherein the multiple portions are connected by living hinges such that the multiple portions are foldable towards each other; wherein the multiple portions are configured to form a fluid channel arrangement between functional surfaces of the multiple portions facing each other when the multiple portions are folded towards each other; wherein at least two functional surfaces of the functional surfaces are inclined to each other when the multiple portions are folded towards each other; and wherein the fluid channel arrangement is configured to provide fluid communication between the at least two inlets and the at least one outlet.

Abstract: A syringe holder for a motorized injection device, the syringe holder being adapted to receive a receptacle intended to contain a fluid or viscous substance, preferably a disposable refillable receptacle or a syringe, as well as being adapted to be mounted on the motorized injection device such that the motorized injection device enables a part or all of the fluid or viscous substance contained in said receptacle to be expelled. The syringe holder includes a first activator portion to control a predefined function of the motorized injection device. The syringe holder is distinguished in that it comprises a second activator portion to control said predefined function of the motorized injection device independently from the first activator portion.

Abstract: A self-injection device includes a visual indicator for visually indicating that a main body and a cartridge holder are properly connected to each other. In one embodiment, the visual indicator includes a visual marking on the cartridge holder and a visual marking on the main body, such that when the cartridge holder and the main body are properly connected, the visual markings are aligned with each other. A self-injection device that includes an indicator for a dose window is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention refers to a handheld injection device comprising a housing (10; 410), a dose indicator (90; 480) positioned within and axially constrained to the housing (10; 410) and rotatable with respect to the housing (10; 410) during dose setting and during dose dispensing, a gauge element (80; 490), which is at least partly interposed between the housing (10; 410) and the dose indicator (90; 480), wherein the gauge element (80; 490) is axially guided within the housing (10; 410) and in threaded engagement with the dose indicator (90; 480) such that rotation of the dose indicator (90; 480) causes an axial displacement of the gauge element (80; 490). A contrast element having a first marking is provided and at least a region of the gauge element (80; 490) is provided with a second marking, with the first marking and/or the second marking being visible through a first window (12a) or aperture in the housing (10; 410) depending on the axial position of the gauge element (80; 490) within the housing (10; 410).

Abstract: A retractable safety syringe includes a retractable needle hub holding a needle and having a first guiding means; and a hollow barrel having a second guiding means set correspondingly to the first guiding means; and a collapsible plunger comprising of a first plunger element having a protrusion releasably coupled with a second plunger element having a longitudinal slot with a pinched zone to curb the movement of said protrusion; and a spring disposed between the needle hub and hollow barrel and acts between the needle hub and the hollow barrel. The uncoupling of the collapsible plunger triggers the retraction mechanism to enable the needle hub to retract into the barrel by the decompression force of a spring. The reliability of retraction is further improved by a longitudinal slot and a protrusion to facilitate the retreating of the collapsible plunger in an orderly way.

Abstract: A needle safety device has an outer tube within which a syringe barrel from which a cannula extends is slideably receivable. A collar in the outer tube is moveable relative thereto and rotatably attachable to the distal end of the barrel. A force member biases the outer tube in a distal direction. A cannula shield able to receive the cannula therein is in the outer tube. The cannula shield is fixedly attached to a cap removably attached to the outer tube. A track is formed in the inner surface of the outer tube. A pin extending radially outwardly from the collar slidingly engages the track. In a pre-injection position, the cannula is entirely within the outer tube. In a full-insertion position, the cannula extends beyond the outer tube. In a locked position, the cannula is irreversibly retained entirely within the outer tube.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for applying an anesthetic includes a receptacle having an upper end, a substantially hollow interior, a lower end having a tube or nozzle extending therefrom, and an attachment for attaching to the barrel of a syringe or vice versa. The receptacle receives a container or canister containing an endothermic gas or vapor (propellant) that rapidly absorbs heat when released to the atmosphere. A depressible actuating member or trigger propels the gas or vapor through an outlet nozzle that is oriented to project a stream of gas or vapor along a delivery axis that intersects a delivery axis of the needle, therefore, the gas or vapor can be successively delivered to an injection site with minimal repositioning of the housing.

Abstract: A laparoscopic filter system having a main unit having an inflow port, an outflow port, a pressure sensing port, a user interface having a power switch, a controller, a pump, and an interface for receiving a detachable filter cartridge, and a detachable filter cartridge configured and arranged to reversibly attach to the interface, the detachable filter cartridge having an inflow pass-through line, an outflow pass-through line, a pressure sensing pass-through line, and a filter media arranged in series with the inflow pass-through line.

Abstract: A nebulizer is proposed which comprises a blocking device for blocking opening of the nebulizer in a tensioned state. The nebulizer comprises preferably an indicator device for indicating a tensioned state of the nebulizer. The nebulizer comprises further a depressible actuator member at a housing part which is detachable from the nebulizer.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved means of treating tracheobronchitis, bronchiectasis and pneumonia in the nosocomial patient, preferably with aerosolized anti gram-positive and anti-gram negative antibiotics administered in combination or in seriatim in reliably sufficient amounts for therapeutic effect. In one aspect, the invention assures this result when aerosol is delivered into the ventilator circuit. In one embodiment the result is achieved mechanically. In another embodiment, the result is achieved by aerosol formulation. In another aspect, the invention assures the result when aerosol is delivered directly to the airways distal of the ventilator circuit. The treatment means eliminates the dosage variability that ventilator systems engender when aerosols are introduced via the ventilator circuit.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for nebulizing preferably powdered medicinal formulations, the nebulization being assisted by propellant. According to the invention, the propellant is supplied in pulsed form to the powder cavity (1) containing the formulation, which is attached to the nozzle (3) from which the aerosol is emitted. The apparatus according to the invention provides an increase in the fraction of pulmonary particles in the aerosol leaving the nozzle (3).

Abstract: An alarming method for a ventilator and a ventilator alarm system are provided. The method includes the following. First, a plurality of ventilation parameters are received and detected. If a peak airway pressure of the ventilation parameters conforms to a first condition, whether a plateau pressure conforms to a second condition is determined, wherein the first condition is Y(k+1), Ppeak>Yk, mean,Ppeak+3*Yk,sd,Ppeak, and the second condition is Y(k+1), Pplateau<Yk, mean, Pplateau+3*Yk, sd, Pplateau. If the plateau pressure does not conform to the second condition, an airway static obstruction alarm is activated. If the plateau pressure conforms to the second condition and a third condition, an airway dynamic obstruction alarm is activated.

Abstract: In a respiratory apparatus for treatment of sleep apnea and other disorders associated with an obstruction of a patient's airway and which uses an airflow signal, an obstruction index is generated which detects the flattening of the inspiratory portion of the airflow. The flattening index serves as an obstruction index used to differentiate normal and obstructed breathing. The obstruction index is based upon comparison of values of airflow in different sectors of the inspiratory peak of the wave function and is particularly suitable for distinguishing M shaped or square shaped respiratory patters indicative of partially obstructed airways.

Abstract: A closed suction system module is provided. In one embodiment, the closed suction system module includes a coupling member configured to couple to a suction port of a multi-port manifold or endotracheal tube adapter (e.g., dual-port or tri-port adapter). In one embodiment, the closed suction system module includes a suction catheter configured to clean the interior surfaces of body-inserted tubes or artificial airways (alone or in addition to suctioning natural airways or portions of the respiratory tract or other body lumens). The suction catheter may include a cleaning portion at a distal portion of the suction catheter (e.g., near the distal end or tip of the suction catheter). In some embodiments, the cleaning portion includes at least one expandable cleaning member (e.g., balloon, sleeve, wiper).

Abstract: A sealing interface includes an inner cushion and an outer sheath. The outer sheath substantially seals against the facial contours of the user. The inner cushion and the outer sheath each have a nasal bridge region, left and right cheek regions and either one of an upper lip region or a chin region. In use these regions are aligned with the corresponding nasal bridge region, left and right cheek regions and either the upper lip region or the chin region of a user. The inner cushion includes a hinged region. The hinged region is adapted to flex substantially independently of the inner cushion cheek regions.