Abstract: In accordance with the method of the present invention, 3D tissue-derived scaffolding materials are made in various formats, including but not limited to hydrogel, sponge, fibers, microspheres, and films, all of which function to better preserve natural extracellular matrix molecules and to mimic the natural tissue environment, thereby effectively guiding tissue regeneration. The method involves incorporating a homogenized tissue-derived suspension into a polymeric solution of synthetic, natural, or hybrid polymers to prepare tissue-derived scaffolds in the aforementioned formats. Such tissue-derived scaffolds and scaffolding materials have a variety of utilities, including: the creation of 3D tissue models such as skin, bone, liver, pancreas, lung, and so on; facilitation of studies on cell-matrix interactions; and the fabrication of implantable scaffolding materials for guided tissue formation in vivo.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods, substrates and compositions for modifying, repairing, and/or engineering blood vessel tissue, and in particular the use of such compositions for treating a diseased blood vessel.

Abstract: Provided is a three dimensional tissue scaffold comprising a stem cell attracting element associated with a matrix, and fusion protein of stem cell attracting factor and collagen-binding domain, and methods of uses thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell-free, multi-layered medical device having bespoke, multifunctional bioactivity for the purpose of regeneration of skeletal tissues. The medical device may actively promote homing of stem cells into the medical device and promote their differentiation into the required cell type and promote de-novo tissue formation. The invention includes methods of making the medical device, uses of the medical device in promoting regeneration of the articular cartilage of a joint surface and in promoting healing and regeneration of skeletal tissues, for example, meniscal cartilage, tendon and ligament tissues and also healing of bone tissue indications such as fractures.

Abstract: The present application relates to biomimetic three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds, constructs and methods of making the same. The three-dimensional scaffold can include a sacrificial internal cast and a durable external scaffold material, wherein the durable external scaffold material comprises a biocompatible material which completely surrounds the sacrificial internal cast and wherein the sacrificial internal cast be removed to yield a branching 3D network of hollow, vessel-like tubes that substantially mimics a native tissue or organ.

Abstract: Devices prepared from polyetherimide resins are disclosed. In one aspect, the article can be a medical device configured for use in a body.

Abstract: An embodiment includes a system comprising: a substrate of a medical device; an un-foamed polyurethane coating directly contacting the substrate and fixedly attached to the substrate; a thermoset polyurethane shape memory polymer (SMP) foam, having first and second states, which directly contacts the polyurethane coating and fixedly attaches to the polyurethane coating; wherein the polyurethane coating fixedly attaches the SMP foam to the substrate. Other embodiments are described herein.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a new method of mass-transfer/fabrication of micro-sized features/structures onto the inner diameter (ID) surface of a stent. This new approach is provided by technique of through mask electrical micro-machining. One embodiment discloses an application of electrical micro-machining to the ID of a stent using a customized electrode configured specifically for machining micro-sized features/structures.

Abstract: The disposable Cupping device is useful for wet and dry cupping therapeutic treatment. It consists of a Barrel like cup, plunger with at least one projections, and a Locking mechanism.

Abstract: A protection device that couples to a cannula of a circulatory support device and can be used to isolate the interface of the cannula with an incision through which the cannula is disposed, and related systems and methods.

Abstract: A method for priming a renal therapy machine is disclosed. The method includes communicating a source of a physiologically compatible solution with a blood circuit and moving the physiologically compatible solution from the source to the blood circuit. The method also includes moving the physiologically compatible solution through the blood circuit to prime the blood circuit. The method further includes moving the physiologically compatible solution from the blood circuit though porous fibers of a blood filter, causing air to be purged from the blood circuit and into a dialysis fluid circuit portion of the blood filter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for disinfecting a hydraulic circuit of a device for processing liquids for dialysis, wherein the apparatus comprises: at least one valve arrangement; at least one source for disinfectant; at least one first line which is connected or connectable to the source for disinfectant and to the hydraulic circuit; at least one second line which branches off from the first line and is connected to environmental air or to an air reservoir; wherein the valve arrangement has at least one first valve and at least one second valve which are located in the first line in front of and behind the point of the branching off of the second line from the first line; and wherein the valve arrangement furthermore has at least one third valve which is located in the second line, with the first and second lines being arranged such that, with opened first and third valves, the second line and the first line are ventilated between the second valve and the source so that the disinfectant cont

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dialysis machine having a hydraulic system that is intended for providing a dialysis solution or an element of the dialysis solution, wherein the hydraulic system has a degassing pump for degassing the dialysis solution or an element of the dialysis solution, and having a pneumatic system in which a vacuum is present at least at times for operating a component of the dialysis machine, wherein there is a connection line between the suction side of the degassing pump and the pneumatic system for a vacuum generation in the pneumatic system.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for recharging sorbent materials and other rechargeable dialysis components. The systems and methods include rechargers, flow paths, and related components for connecting multiple rechargers together to sharing infrastructure and resources. The rechargeable dialysis components can include zirconium phosphate, zirconium oxide, and other sorbent cartridge materials including any combination thereof or any other rechargeable component of a dialysis system. Additionally, a single-use cartridge or a multi-use cartridge can be used in the present invention.

Abstract: An artificial lung in a circulation apparatus can be monitored and be maintained in a safe condition without manual assistance. As an extracorporeal circulation mode starts, it is determined first whether or not gas exchange of the artificial lung is carried out within a normal range, based on oxygen concentration which is detected by an oxygen sensor positioned at a downstream place in the artificial lung. If the gas exchange is carried out within the normal range, an estimated value for gas supply volume of a gas blender is maintained. When oxygen concentration exceeding the normal range is detected, the gas blender is controlled so as to revise the gas supply volume downward. In addition, when oxygen concentration falls below the normal range, the gas blender is controlled so as to revise the gas supply volume upward.

Abstract: An embodiment of a peritoneal dialysis system includes a peritoneal dialysis hardware unit having a housing with a first opening, a door coupled to the housing and having a second opening, and a solid pump piston having a solid piston shaft attached to or integrally formed with a solid piston head. The system also includes a stepper motor operable to cause the solid pump piston to translate; a disposable pumping unit having a first and a second opposing surface, and a fluid pump receptacle extending from the first and second surface to fit within the second opening. The hardware unit and pumping unit are structured and arranged to allow the pumping unit to be placed into the hardware unit such that the fluid pump receptacle is aligned with the first opening, the second opening, and the solid piston head when the door is closed against the housing.

Abstract: A system for collecting MNCs to be treated with irradiation comprises a fluid circuit comprising a product container for receiving a MNC product. The system comprises a separator to work in association with the fluid circuit, the separator comprising a chamber for separation into RBCs, plasma, and an interface carrying MNCs between the RBCs and the plasma. A microprocessor-based controller is in communication with the separator, wherein the controller receives input of a target hematocrit for the MNC product. The controller also receives input for a total volume of whole blood and a number of cycles, and directs the interface and a portion of the RBCs into the product container for a resulting product volume comprising a volume of MNCs and a volume of RBCs. The controller automatically adjusts a RBC volume so that a ratio of RBCs within the MNC product to MNC product equals the target hematocrit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for venting a dialyzer which has a dialyzate chamber, a blood chamber and a semi-permeable dialyzer membrane separating these two chambers, wherein an overpressure is generated in the dialyzate chamber with respect to the blood chamber for removing air inclusions lying at the surface of the membrane at the dialyzate chamber side after a filling of the dialyzate chamber and before a filling of the blood chamber.

Abstract: A nasal ejecting catheter for home remedy of nasal irrigation treatment comprises a catheter unit and a connecting unit. The catheter unit comprises an open end, a closed end on the opposite side and a plurality of apertures formed near the closed end. The connection unit comprises a connection portion for connecting the open end of the catheter and an assembling portion for connecting an injection unit. The catheter body is made of silicone, latex, thermoplastic elastomer or other soft material to be operated by the patient. The total area of apertures is smaller than the cross section area of inner lumen of the catheter in order to eject substantially even strength multiple thin spouts.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing port (10) comprising: a distal end (12) and a proximal end (14), wherein the distal end (12) is received in a container/bottle (16), an infusion tube (18) received in the proximal end (14); a holding rim (20) provided in between the proximal (14) and distal (12) end; axially extending openings (22) and (24) formed in the liquid dispensing port (10); an air vent (26) extending axially parallel to the openings (22) and (24) is provided in the port (10) which facilitates the passage of liquid from the container (16) through the tube (18).

Abstract: A fluid reservoir for a fluid infusion device is provided. The fluid reservoir includes a first portion that has a first end and a second end. The first end includes a fluid delivery port and at least one bubble retaining feature adjacent to the fluid delivery port. The fluid reservoir includes a second portion received in the second end of the first portion and movable within the first portion from the first end to the second end. The fluid reservoir defines a fluid chamber between the first portion and the second portion.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of treatment of symptoms or disorders through use of a cartridge system that may be used in conjunction with a delivery system, such as an infusion set. More specifically, the present disclosure describes a smart cartridge for containing and releasing medicament, wherein the smart cartridge may comprise a system that may be operable when in electrical communication with an external power source. A smart cartridge may comprise one or more compressible reservoirs that may contain the medicament, wherein the release of medicament from a compressible reservoir may be controlled by a pumping mechanism within the cartridge. In some aspects, a smart cartridge may be operable when paired or connected with a portable dispensing unit or other power source and control mechanism, wherein the pumping mechanism may individually actuate a compressible reservoir and deliver medicaments continuously or at a programmable intermittent rate.

Abstract: An ambulatory infusing device including a housing, a reservoir defining an interior volume, a wall associated with the housing and having an inner surface that faces into the reservoir interior volume, and a filter assembly. The filter assembly may include a filter assembly housing with a housing filter portion having a free end associated with the inner surface of the wall and a filter supporting volume that extends to the free end of the housing filter portion, and a filter located within the filter supporting volume that extends to at least the free end of the housing filter portion.

Abstract: An ambulatory infusing device including a housing, a reservoir defining an interior volume, a wall associated with the housing and having an inner surface that faces into the reservoir interior volume, and a filter assembly. The filter assembly may include a filter assembly housing with a housing filter portion having a filter supporting volume, a filter located within the filter supporting volume, and a bubble guard, including a bubble guard wall and at least one bubble guard aperture that extends through the bubble guard wall, associated with the filter assembly housing such that the bubble guard wall is located in spaced relation to the filter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to medical pumping devices and more precisely to the detection of dysfunctions in such devices.

Abstract: Reservoir volume of implantable infusion devices may be determined using a volume sensor that provides a signal representative of a distance between the volume sensor and a movable wall of the reservoir. The volume sensor may be a light-based or sound-based sensor, and may be located outside of the reservoir.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of treatment of symptoms or disorders through use of a cartridge system that may be used in conjunction with a delivery system, such as an infusion set. More specifically, the present disclosure describes a communication system for delivering medicament to a user, wherein the communication system may comprise a smart cartridge, a master control unit, and a drug delivery base. A smart cartridge may comprise one or more compressible reservoirs that may contain the medicament, wherein the release of medicament from a compressible reservoir from a pumping mechanism within the cartridge. In some aspects, a smart cartridge may be controlled by a master control unit that may transmit and receive delivery data from one or more components of the smart cartridge, wherein the pumping mechanism may individually actuate a compressible reservoir and deliver medicaments continuously or at a programmable intermittent rate.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a drug delivery device having a case adapted to retain a medicament container, a plunger disposed within the case and slidable from a proximal position into a distal position for delivering a medicament from the medicament container, and at least one feedback mechanism that is in operative connection with the plunger. The feedback mechanism includes a collar, a needle shroud, and a control spring biasing the needle shroud in a distal direction relative to the collar. The collar is operatively coupled to the case in an axial direction and prevented from axially decoupling from the case by the plunger when in the proximal position. The plunger, during movement from the proximal position towards the distal position, allows axial decoupling of the collar from the case driven by the control spring until the collar's movement is halted, which creates an audible and/or tactile feedback.

Abstract: A dropper syringe apparatus includes a cylindrical barrel, a plunger assembly, and a needle. The cylindrical barrel storing the fluid includes a flanged first opening and a second opening. The plunger assembly, inserted into the cylindrical barrel, includes a plunger shaft and a flexible hollow bulb. The plunger shaft includes a flanged upper end, a lower end, and a central lumen. The plunger shaft moves in an upward and a downward direction within the cylindrical barrel. The central lumen extends from the lower to the flanged upper end of the plunger shaft for accommodating the fluid. The flexible hollow bulb is fixedly attached to the flanged upper end and in fluid communication with the central lumen. An external force exerted on the flexible hollow bulb exerts a pressure on the fluid accommodated within the lumen. The needle draws or dispenses the fluid from or to the external body.

Abstract: An injector includes a hollow needle; a main body unit including a needle holding portion that holds the needle; and a protection device configured to cover the needle before and after puncturing a puncture target with the needle. The protection device includes: an inner member attached to the needle holding portion and being freely rotatable around an outer periphery of the needle holding portion; and m outer member configured to (i) cover an order side of the needle and the inner member before puncturing, (ii) expose the needle by moving toward a proximal end side relative to the main body unit at a time of puncturing, and (iii) cover a distal end of the needle by moving toward a distal end side relative to the main body unit after puncturing.

Abstract: An auto-injector comprising an elongate housing containing a syringe. The housing having an orifice intended to be applied against an injection site. The syringe is slidably arranged with respect to the housing. A spring pushing the needle from a covered position into an advanced position, operating the syringe and covering the needle. An activator arranged to lock the spring prior to manual operation and capable of, upon manual operation, releasing the spring means for injection. A first gear arrangement and a second gear arrangement arranged fro converting torque from a first end and a second end of the torsion spring into a translative force. The first end groundable in the housing while the second end acts on a plunger through the second gear arrangement for advancing the needle and supplying the dose.

Abstract: A discharger for discharging a predetermined amount of fluid includes a housing defining a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end and a distal end, a discharge section having a discharge passage for the fluid extending between an inlet opening and an outlet opening of the discharge section, a carriage cooperating with the proximal end region of the housing such that the carriage is moveable relative to the housing along the longitudinal axis, and securing devices engageable with each other such that they define a locking position in which the carriage is prevented from being moved along the longitudinal axis, the securing device being disengageable to define a starting position for the carriage by simultaneously applying a first actuating force to the housing and a second actuating force to the carriage, the first actuating force being brought about by a radial compression of the housing.

Abstract: This disclosure concerns a method for removing gas and/or gas bubbles from a liquid medicament stored in a reservoir for an infusion pump device. The reservoir comprises a displacing member which is at least partly displaceable relative to the reservoir thereby enabling receiving mechanical oscillations in order to generate mechanical waves in the liquid medicament. The method comprises: providing the reservoir; and transmitting a mechanical oscillation to the displacing member of the reservoir thereby generating a mechanical wave in the liquid medicament for removing gas and/or gas bubbles from the liquid medicament.

Abstract: A nebulizer has an aperture plate, a mounting, an actuator, and an aperture plate drive circuit (2-4). A controller measures an electrical drive parameter at each of a plurality of measuring points, each measuring point having a drive frequency; and based on the values of the parameter at the measuring points makes a determination of optimum drive frequency and also an end-of-dose prediction. The controller performs a short scan at regular sub-second intervals at which drive current is measured at two measuring points with different drive frequencies. According to drive parameter measurements at these points the controller determines if a full scan sweeping across a larger number of measuring points should be performed. The full scan provides the optimum drive frequency for the device and also an end of dose indication.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (1) for the administration of a cosmetic product, with a first holder (2) for a pressurized gas cartridge (3), a second holder (4) for a cosmetic product container (5), flow rate regulating means (6), a nozzle (7) with heating means (8), and a trigger (9) which allows opening the passage of gas when operated. The first holder (2) allows housing a cartridge (3) for the passage of pressurized gas towards the flow rate regulating means (6). The first holder (2), the flow rate regulating means (6) and the nozzle (7) are fluidically connected. The regulating means are located downstream of the first holder (2) and upstream of the nozzle (7). The second holder (4) allows housing a container (5) for the passage of a product towards the nozzle (7) by means of a first conduit (10). The invention also relates to the corresponding process, use and container.

Abstract: The aerosol-generating device includes a device housing, and a receiving chamber defined within the device housing. The receiving chamber is configured to receive at least a first-type consumable and a second-type consumable, the receiving chamber including a first structure for receiving the first-type consumable and a second structure for receiving the second-type consumable. A structure selector selects between the first structure and the second structure, the first and second structures differing in at least one of a shape, a size and a position within the receiving chamber. An aerosolization system is included with at least a portion of the receiving chamber, where the receiving chamber is configured to prevent an insertion of more than one consumable into the receiving chamber.

Abstract: An improved aerosol dispensing apparatus includes an aerosol container, a discharge piece, an actuator, a flow control canister valve assembly attached to the aerosol container, a battery, and an electronically controlled flow control valve electronically connected to the battery and in fluid communication with the flow control canister valve assembly. The aerosol container and the attached flow control canister valve assembly are further attached to the actuator and the actuator is mounted for slidable movement within the discharge piece. The flow control canister valve assembly is movable between an open position wherein a volume of an aerosol formulation is directed from the aerosol container through the flow control canister valve assembly to the electronically controlled flow control valve, and a closed position wherein the aerosol formulation is not permitted to flow through the flow control canister valve assembly to the electronically controlled flow control valve.

Abstract: A dry powder inhaler (10) having a chamber (26) divided into first and second blister compartments (28, 30) for storing unused and used portions (34, 36) of a blister strip (12) is provided. A moveable dividing wall (32) separates the first and second blister compartments. One or more arcuate supporting surfaces (38, 40, 42) are disposed in either the first and/or the second blister compartments and these surfaces support the used or unused blister strip during successive actuations of the inhaler. Use of the arcuate supporting surfaces facilities compact coils of unused and used portions of blister strip, thereby reducing the size of the chamber required for the inhaler.

Abstract: A method of controlling a ventilator to provide spontaneous breathing support includes determining a target CO2 value, determining a support pressure, detecting a patient-generated spontaneous breath, and delivering ventilation gas to the patient based on the support pressure. A patient CO2 is then measured, along with measuring at least one of a patient breath rate and a breath volume. The patient CO2 is compared to the target CO2 value. The patient's respiratory drive is determined based on at least one of the patient breath rate and the breath volume. If elevated respiratory drive is detected, then the support pressure is adjusted accordingly. If elevated respiratory drive is not detected, then the target CO2 value is adjusted based on the measured patient CO2.

Abstract: A respiratory therapy device comprises a respiratory air channel having a narrowing that has a variable passage cross section, a pressure sensor designed and arranged to detect the value of a pressure prevailing within the respiratory air channel, an adjustment apparatus designed and arranged to change the passage cross section of the narrowing, a control apparatus having a signal input for supplying the pressure value detected by the pressure sensor and a signal output for outputting an adjustment signal to the adjustment apparatus, wherein a portion of the wall defining the respiratory air channel is formed by a resilient hose piece, and wherein the adjustment apparatus acts on the resilient hose piece from the outside in order to change the passage cross section thereof.

Abstract: An oral appliance for users of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. CPAP users who use a nose-only mask experience a flow of pressurized air out the mouth if the mouth is open. This causes the mouth to dry out and allows the return of obstructive sleep apnea. The oral appliance forms a seal in the user's mouth that prevents the flow of air out of the mouth, which restores full function to the CPAP machine.

Abstract: A bronchoscopy scope guide (30) for a non-invasive ventilation (NIV) patient interface (10) comprises a semi-rigid scope guide tube (32), a bronchoscopy scope seal (48), and a semi-rigid grommet (34). The semi-rigid scope guide tube (32) includes a principal axis (36) and entrance and exit guide portions (38,40). The bronchoscopy scope seal (48) couples to the scope guide tube for sealing around a bronchoscopy scope when inserted through the scope guide tube. The semi-rigid grommet (34) is disposed about an outer circumference of and flexibly coupled to the scope guide tube (32) and is located in a principal plane (52) transverse to the principal axis of the scope guide tube.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for securing nasal tubes are disclosed. An exemplary system includes a bridle, a magnetic portion connected to the bridle, a delivery probe, a retrieval probe, and a clamp. The delivery probe includes an elongated member having proximal and distal ends, the distal end configured to deliver the magnetic portion, and a bridle lock configured to release the bridle upon actuation of an actuator. The retrieval probe includes an elongated member having proximal and distal ends, the distal end including a magnetic portion configured to magnetically couple with the other magnetic portion, and a magnetic coupling indicator configured to provide an indication in response to a magnetic coupling. The clamp includes a channel portion with an inside diameter larger than an outside diameter of a nasal tube. The clamp is configured to secure the nasal tube following placement of the bridle by the delivery and retrieval probes.

Abstract: A nasal prong (230) for sealing with a nasal passage of a patient includes a head portion (235) structured to seal and/or sealingly communicate with the patient's nasal passage and a column or stalk structured to interconnect the head portion with a base. The head portion (235) is configured to direct gas in use away from the septum and/or posteriorly relative to the nasal passage.

Abstract: An improvement in the apparatus to secure a nasal cannula used with continuous positive airway pressure machines used with infants in neonatal intensive care units. A soft knit hat with slots is used to secure air hoses feeding the cannula. Elastic straps thread through the slots to secure the hoses to the infant's head. A chin strap is used to hold the baby's mouth closed to prevent air leakage while the cannula is in use. The hat also includes a set of horizontal slots in the center of the hat to attach a required eye shield. The device allows the infant to sleep on one side without hoses and tubes getting in the way. It also allows a parent to hold the child comfortably. Hoses can be secured to a chair or bed with a hose strap.

Abstract: A headgear assembly includes a strap of a first flexible material with an elongate edge, and a second flexible material folded around and running along the elongate edge. The second flexible material may be an elastic material. The second flexible material may also cover an intersection or joint in the first flexible material such that the first flexible material may be made from two flexible materials layered together or joined end to end.

Abstract: A headgear assembly for retaining a respiratory mask on a user's face is provided. The headgear assembly comprising an adjustment mechanism or arrangement that includes a pair of rails configured to allow a first and second strap to be slideably moved relative to each other to adjust the size of the headgear assembly.

Abstract: Helically winding an extruded web to form a wall of a heated hose about a central axis, extruding a bead of plastics material around a heating wire such that the extruded bead comprises the heating wire at a first location within a cross-section of the extruded bead, helically winding the extruded bead onto the wall of the hose to provide a support helix, and exerting tension on the heating wire to draw down the heating wire toward the central axis such that the heating wire migrates radially inward from the first location to a second location within the cross-section of the extruded bead.

Abstract: Unwinding a portion of a support helix that comprises a heating wire from a wall of a hose at an end of the hose; sleeving a length of heatshrink tubing at least partly onto the unwound portion of the support helix; heating the heatshrink tubing to shrink onto at least part of the unwound portion of the support helix; and at an end of the unwound portion, directly connecting the heating wire to an electrical contact of an electrical connector.

Abstract: An undermold coupling to couple a hose to a hose fitting includes: a tubular portion to be inserted into a hose interface of the hose fitting; threads formed on an inner surface of the tubular portion to engage a support helix on an end of the hose as a set of threads; and a first grating comprising a first plurality of elongate portions to intermesh with a corresponding second plurality of elongate portions of a second grating of the hose interface, wherein the first plurality of elongate portions extend into a second plurality of slots defined by the second plurality of elongate portions, and the second plurality of elongate portions extend into a first plurality of slots defined by the first plurality of elongate portions.