Abstract: A female urination device that allows a woman to urinate while standing includes a fluid collecting body and a sanitary napkin. The fluid collecting body has a concave interior surface and a convex exterior surface that are positioned in between a spout and a rim. The concave interior surface delineates a fluid collecting portion, while the rim delineates a vulval opening. The spout is in fluid communication with the vulval opening through the fluid collecting portion, wherein urine is able to freely pass through the fluid collecting body. The concave interior surface and the convex exterior surface are tapered from the rim to the spout, while the spout is tapered away from the concave interior surface and the convex exterior surface to facilitate the control of the flow of urine. The sanitary napkin is positioned around the rim and assists in adhering the fluid collecting body to the woman's body.

Abstract: An anti-snoring and sleep apnea device has a maxillary tray adapted for receiving upper teeth, the maxillary tray having a pair of shoulder structures with each of the shoulder structures having an adjustable expansion device and a movable boss member connected to the expansion device, with adjustment of each expansion device for moving each boss member away from each shoulder structure, the maxillary tray also having a polymer compound therein, and a mandibular tray adapted for receiving lower teeth, the mandibular tray having a pair of upstanding structural fins, each of the fins being adjacent to each of the boss members, with adjustment of each expansion device for moving the mandibular tray forward of the maxillary tray, the mandibular tray also having a polymer compound therein.

Abstract: A condom, container and applicator for a condom, in which the condom is provided in a longitudinally expandable cup having a peel-off lid. The cup is typically formed of plastic material. The side wall of the container is expandable, and can include accordion-like pleats to allow for longitudinal expansion of the cup. The condom is placed in the cup such that it can be directly applied to the penis while still in the cup, and the cup used as an applicator to unroll the condom over at least the head of the penis by expanding the side wall of the cup. The disclosure also relates to a dispenser for storing and dispensing the condom containers.

Abstract: A heat treatment device with a handle portion, a tip portion, a power source, and a heating element. The tip portion is heatable to a desired temperature and can be positioned against an affected area for therapeutic treatment. The device can also have control circuitry that can adjust a current flowing to the heating element to regulate the treatment temperature.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for temperature modification of a patient, or selected regions thereof, including an induced state of hypothermia. The temperature modification is accomplished using an in-dwelling heat exchange catheter within which a fluid heat exchange medium circulates. A heat exchange cassette of any one of several disclosed variations is attached to the circulatory conduits of the catheter, the heat exchange cassette being sized to engage a cavity within one of various described re-usable control units. The control units include a heater/cooler device, a user input device, and a processor connected to receive input from various sensors around the body and the system. The heater/cooler device may be thermoelectric to enable both heating and 15? cooling based on polarity. A temperature control scheme for ramping the body temperature up or down without overshoot is provided.

Abstract: A method in which a location is determined on the skin that is proximate to a sensory nerve that is associated with a painful condition. At least one needle of a cryogenic device is inserted into the location on the skin such that the needle is proximate to the sensory nerve. The device is activated such that the at least one needle creates a cooling zone about the sensory nerve, thereby eliminating or reducing severity of the painful condition.

Abstract: A thin resilient strand, such as medical suture material, extends from a stiffer shank. The strand can form a resilient hook and/or it can have an arcuate free end to engage tissue such as the interior of a capsular bag at approximately its equator during ophthalmic surgery.

Abstract: An articulating optical surgical probe includes a handle sized to fit in a single hand and a single rigid cannula extending from the handle having a diameter of 20 Ga or less. The probe further includes a slotted tip at a distal end of the cannula and at least one optical fiber extending through the handle, the single rigid cannula and the slotted tip, and a pull-wire secured to the slotted tip. When the pull-wire exerts tension on the slotted tip, the slotted tip will deviate from straight to a bend angle controlled by the tension in the pull-wire. The slotted tip is formed from a resilient material that will restore to the straight position when the tension exerted by the pull-wire is released.

Abstract: Glaucoma can be treated by implanting an intraocular shunt into the eye. Such procedures can employ various deployment devices, shunts, and implantation techniques.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for the treatment of glaucoma are provided. The instrument uses either cauterization, a laser to ablate, sonic or ultrasonic energy to emulsify, or mechanical cutting of a portion of the trabecular meshwork. The instrument may also be provided with irrigation, aspiration, and a footplate. The footplate is used to enter Schlemm's canal, serves as a guide, and also protects Schlemm's canal.

Abstract: A system for ophthalmic surgery includes a laser source configured to deliver an ultraviolet laser beam comprising laser pulses having a wavelength between 320 nm and 370 nm to photodecompose one or more intraocular targets within the eye with chromophore absorbance. The pulse energy, the pulse duration, and the focal spot are such that an irradiance at the focal spot is sufficient to photodecompose the one or more intraocular targets without exceeding a threshold of formation of a plasma and an associated cavitation event. An optical system operatively coupled to the laser source and configured to focus the ultraviolet laser beam to a focal spot and direct the focal spot in a pattern into the one or more intraocular targets. The optical system focuses the laser beam at a numerical aperture that provides for the focal spot to be scanned over a scan range of 6 mm to 10 mm.

Abstract: A method for preparing an endothelial corneal graft is provided. The method comprises: providing a donor cornea; irradiating the donor cornea from an endothelial side thereof with laser radiation to cause a photodisruption in tissue of the donor cornea at a focal point of the radiation; and moving the focal point of the radiation to form an endothelial graft in the donor cornea. By irradiating the donor cornea from the endothelial side thereof, instead of the epithelial side, to cut the endothelial graft, optical inhomogeneities which may develop after death in stromal tissue of the donor cornea leave the laser cutting process substantially unaffected.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for increasing the amplitude of accommodation and/or changing the refractive power and/or enabling the removal of the clear or cataractous lens material of a natural crystalline lens is provided. Generally, the system comprises a laser, optics for delivering the laser beam and a control system for delivering the laser beam to the lens in a particular pattern. There is further provided apparatus for determining the shape and position of the lens with respect to the laser. There is yet further provided a method and system for delivering a laser beam in the lens of the eye in a predetermined shot pattern.

Abstract: A method of dilating a first Eustachian tube (ET) and a second ET of a patient using a dilation catheter includes directing the dilation catheter into the mouth of the patient and advancing the dilation catheter into a first ET on one side of the patient's head while a proximal portion of the dilation catheter is disposed in the mouth of the patient. The method further includes expanding the expandable member to thereby dilate the first ET. The method may further include repositioning the dilation catheter relative to a second ET on another side of the patient's head and advancing the dilation catheter into the second ET while a proximal portion of the dilation catheter is disposed in the mouth of the patient. The method may further include expanding the expandable member to thereby dilate the second ET.

Abstract: According to the invention, a wound dressing may be further developed, whereby a wound dressing made from a planar structure with a first main direction of extension and at least one further main direction of extension, whereby the textile planar structure, at least along the main directions of extension comprises extensibility properties which differ by less than 80%, preferably less than 50%.

Abstract: Wounds dressings, systems, and methods are presented for removing liquid from a wound site into a dressing and moving air through the dressing to evaporate at least a portion of the removed liquid. The air is moved in one instance by a Coanda device incorporated into the dressing. Other systems, dressings, and methods are presented.

Abstract: A wound healing device and method that greatly reduces the risk of infection of an incision or wound by removing fluid from the subcutaneous skin layers. The wound healing device includes a first portion that is positioned external of, and on top of, the wound. At least one strip, cord, finger, member is in fluid communication at one end with the first portion while the second free end of the at least one strip, cord, finger, member is pushed down into the wound, in between the sutures or staples of a closed incision. Both the first portion and the at least one strip comprise fluid absorbable material for absorbing the wound fluid. The device remains in place for approximately 1-3 days after which it is removed. Upon removal, natural temporary “type of fistulae” are formed in the subcutaneous skin layers to continue draining wound fluids outward for another 1-2 days.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region extending between the front and back waist regions. The front waist region has a front waist edge and the back waist region has a back waist edge. The front and back waist edges define a waist opening when the absorbent article is in a wear configuration. An elastomeric waist band extends around at least a portion of the waist opening adjacent the front and back waist edges and defines a circumference of the waist opening. Each leg cuff member of a pair of leg cuff members defines a respective leg opening when the absorbent article is in the wear configuration and operatively connected to the waist band such that movement of the waist band results in movement of the leg cuff members.

Abstract: An absorbent article having a longitudinal centerline, a front region, a crotch region, and a back region. The absorbent article has a main portion, a side portion, and a waist portion. The waist portion has a belt portion that has a front belt portion having elastomeric material and a back belt portion having elastomeric material. The front belt portion has a first elastic section and a second elastic section, each section having force zones. The back belt portion has a third elastic section and a fourth elastic section, each section having force zones. The force zones in the portions alternate between a high force zone and a low force zone in at least one belt portion.

Abstract: In a disposable diaper, a back waist region includes a belt region extending in a transverse direction on a skin-facing surface and a downward openable pocket facing, in a front-back direction, a central sub-region in the transverse direction of the belt region. The pocket is defined by a pocket outside wall facing the middle portion in the front-back direction and extending upward from the crotch region, a pocket inside wall facing the pocket outside wall and the belt region, respectively, in the front-back direction, and being continuous with the pocket outside wall through a folded portion and extending downward from the fold line so as to become continuous with the pocket inside wall of the middle portion in the belt region, and both pocket lateral portions formed from the respective lateral portions of the inside and outside walls, and tucked inward in the transverse direction.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods for manufacturing absorbent articles, and in particular, methods for making pre-fastened refastenable pant diapers. Aspects of the methods according to the present disclosure relate to the fabrication of refastenable pant diapers wherein discrete chassis are advanced in a machine direction such that the lateral axis is parallel with the machine direction. First side panels are then refastenably connected with the first waist region, and second side panels are permanently connected the second waist regions of the discrete chassis. The chassis are connected with discrete lengths of side panel material and/or connection zone material. The chassis are then folded, and the first and second side panels are subsequently bonded together. The article is then subjected to knife cut at or adjacent the bonded regions to create discrete, pre-fastened refastenable pant diapers.

Abstract: A fastener for a disposable absorbent article, having a fixed portion attachable to the article, a connective portion joined to and contiguous with the fixed portion, and a folding line disposed between the fixed and connective portions. The fastener may be free of a release tape. The fastener may further comprise an adhesive disposed upon a surface of the fixed portion of the fastener being attached to the article, the adhesive being offset from each of the edges of the fixed portion including the edge formed by the folding line, the dimensions of the offsets being defined herein. The adhesive may be applied during the assembly of the absorbent article on a converting line.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a pant diaper, a sanitary pant or an incontinence pant, includes a front part, a back part, and a crotch part. Lateral side portions of the front part and the back part are superposed, so that their inner surfaces face each other, and are joined to each other along side seams extending in a longitudinal direction of the article. The lateral side portions of the front part and/or the back part include at least one layer of nonwoven material which is reinforced in the area of at least one of the side seams.

Abstract: A disposable diaper for pets, having: a rear-side waist area; a stomach-side waist area; a crotch area; a rear-side flap section; a stomach-side flap section; and a tail insertion opening. At least either the rear-side flap section or the stomach-side flap section have an identification area. A determination can be made that there is a problem with the state of the rear-side flap section, on the basis of visual inspection information about the identification area, said visual inspection being performed externally on the disposable diaper for pets.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides a trauma kit including a plurality of medical packets, wherein one or more of the medical packets includes treatment instructions, a first tool for treating a medical situation, the first tool being labeled in a first color, and a second tool for treating the medical situation, the second tool being labeled in a second color. The treatment instructions include a first treatment instruction labeled with a first character designated in the first color, and a second treatment instruction labeled with a second character designated in the second color. A treatment sequence chart includes a flow diagram of treatment steps, wherein each of the treatment steps are color-coded to one of the medical packets.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a field transport system that converts readily from a litter or stretcher to a gear bag for carrying loose items. The invention includes a base layer strengthened and supported by a frame that permits the use of litter poles. The invention also includes a novel zipper arrangement whereby the litter can be quickly folded and zipped into a bag having a drawstring closure at a top end thereof.

Abstract: Pediatric transport harness systems for an emergency cot including a harness support structure, a stabilizing strap, guide straps, and a harness restraint. The harness restraint is slidably engaged with the guide straps and is continuously positionable and secureable along the guide straps. Methods of securing a pediatric patient to the emergency cot using the pediatric transport harness system.

Abstract: An angle adjustment assembly comprises a first member configured to pivot about a first axis. A second member is configured to rotate about a second axis transverse to the first axis. The first member is eccentrically supported in relation to the second member so that rotation of the second member produces pivotal movement of the first member. A third member may be configured to rotate about a third axis transverse to the first axis. The second member may be eccentrically supported in relation to the third member so that rotation of the third member further produces pivotal movement of the first member. The second member may comprise an inner cam member. The third member may comprise an outer cam member. The first member may be a caster stem for supporting a wheelchair caster assembly, or alternatively, an axle receiver for supporting an axle of a wheelchair drive wheel.

Abstract: A wheelchair frame having a seat for supporting a forward facing occupant therein, rear wheels supporting the frame thereon proximate a rear end of the frame and front wheels supporting the frame thereon proximate a front end of the frame, further includes a front seat height adjustment mechanism which permits a height of a front end of the seat relative to the front wheels to be adjusted separately from or together with a rear end height adjustment of the rear end of the seat relative to the rear wheels. The front seat height adjustment mechanism can also be operable to lower the front seat height relative to the front wheels simultaneously with a rear seat height adjustment mechanism which is biased to raise the rear seat height relative to the rear wheels to assist users in moving from a sitting position towards a more standing position.

Abstract: A person support apparatus includes a first transceiver adapted to wirelessly communicate with a second transceiver of a headwall interface that is positioned off of the person support apparatus. A communication link is automatically established between the first and second transceivers without requiring a user of the person support apparatus to activate a designated control and without requiring the user to identify the headwall interface. The first transceiver includes a unique identifier assigned to the headwall interface in its messages to the headwall interface. The first transceiver may also automatically transmit a disconnect signal to the headwall interface indicating the termination of the communication link is not accidental. The disconnect signal is sent based on one or more of the following: (1) a brake being off, (2) an A/C power cord being unplugged; and/or (3) a signal strength between the transceivers decreasing.

Abstract: A medical apparatus for standing aid comprising a backrest (4) that has at least one side thereof provided with a crank rocker mechanism that comprises a crank mechanism (1), a triangular linkage mechanism (2), and a rocker mechanism (3), the crank mechanism (1) being rotatably connected to the triangular linkage mechanism (2) such that an included angle between a second driven link (BE) of the triangular linkage mechanism (2) and the crank mechanism (1) is always smaller than 90°, and the crank mechanism (1) driving the triangular linkage mechanism (2), the rocker mechanism (3) and the backrest (4) connected to the triangular linkage mechanism (2) to perform interactive movement repeatedly along a predetermined curve trajectory in response to a driving force coming from a drive effect of a driving unit (100), so that the backrest (4) connected to the second driven link (BE) assists a trainee in standing up repeatedly by obliquely supporting the trainee's waist.

Abstract: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation systems and methods of use are disclosed. Several publications and patent documents are cited throughout the specification in order to describe the state of the art to which this invention pertains. Full citations of these references can be found throughout the specification. Each of these citations is incorporated herein by reference as though set forth in full.

Abstract: A holder may be more easily mounted on a user's body by applying tension to a cable. An inner side surface of the holder with which the user's body comes in contact transmits uniform pressure to the user's body such that the holder may be more comfortable to the user.

Abstract: A collapsible upright wheeled walker with adjustable armrests that support sufficient user upper-body weight to facilitate a natural upright gait and provide unassisted mobility for a wide range of mobility-impaired individuals. The apparatus may be easily and quickly folded (and unfolded) and may include bilateral stabilizing wheel suspensions to facilitate navigation over uneven terrain. The apparatus includes a frame-stiffening folder assembly and may also include mechanical brakes, an adjustable upper armrest assembly with removable padded forearm supports and two pairs of handles, at least one of which is disposed sufficiently forward to place the user within the polygonal footprint defined by the front and rear wheels to provide support without leaning, stooping, or risking falls.

Abstract: A safety walker has a support extension that extends from the front of the moveable support frame toward the back end opening and is centrally located. A user may enter the safety walker and straddle the support extension and the actuate the support extension up to a secure position, whereby in the event of a fall the support extension will support the user. The support extension may be coupled with an actuator system having a motor to raise or pivot the support extension. A safety strap may be attached to the extended end of the support extension and extend above the support extension towards the front of the movable support frame. The safety strap may provide a flexible support that is more comfortable for support in the event of a fail. A gate may be coupled with an actuator system and automatically close as the support extension is lifted.

Abstract: An apparatus and method used for medical and/or cosmetic treatment of a tissue, such as skin tightening, skin laxity and/or wrinkle reduction and or other skin flaws, including an energy source, a vacuum chamber and rollers which may facilitate easy sliding of the apparatus from one treated area to another. The rollers may also prevent excessive friction of the skin during the treatment. The energy source can be configured to emit energy based on the position of the apparatus on the skin (i.e., the position of the rollers), as well as the pressure within the vacuum chamber. The vacuum level and energy emission can be changed or pulsed based on the treatment regime.

Abstract: An adjustable air bladder apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes an outer enclosure, a first interior section within the outer enclosure that contains a plurality of air bladders, a second interior section within the outer enclosure that contains a support layer, and an air pump pneumatically coupled to the plurality of air bladders, where the air pump is configured to selectively supply pressurized air to the air bladders independently through a pneumatic coupling. The pneumatic coupling includes one or more supply valves, outlet valves, and pressure sensors coupled to each air bladder or to one or more groupings of air bladders. A control device is provided for monitoring the pressure within the air bladders and for controlling an amount of air provided to or released from the bladders or groupings of bladders. A method of providing rolling massage with the apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: The massaging device includes electromechanical means, for generating mechanical vibrations, in a housing, electronic means for controlling the electromechanical means, and a power source connected to the electromechanical and electronic means. The electromechanical means includes a cylinder element, in which a core is guided in parallel to a cylinder element axis (Z2), in particular, coaxial with respect to the cylinder element axis (Z2), at least one coil element, the coil axis (Z3) of which is arranged coaxially with respect to the cylinder element, and which encloses the cylinder element, and one impact element arranged at each end of the cylinder element and in the interior thereof, characterized in that the impact elements are formed as end magnets, wherein the ends of the end magnets respectively facing the ends of the core have a magnetic polarity which is identical to the polarity of the respectively facing ends of the core.

Abstract: Small high efficiency motors in order to produce large amounts of power must be operated such that they are running at high speed outside the desired vibration range for sexual stimulation. Accordingly, designs allowing for the appropriate gearing to allow heavy weights to be spun with small diameter and high efficiency whilst not increasing the outer diameter of an adult device are disclosed. Beneficial embodiments of the invention provide users with adult devices providing high impact (amplitude) vibration in a range of physical geometries compatible with providing internal and/or external stimulation which can also be offered at low cost and/or low manufacturing cost with extended operating life. Additionally, design flexibility via axial designs, non-axial designs, flexible drive designs, aperiodic drive designs, and linearly driven designs provide design solutions for implementing vibrators with low cost, high impact, targeted frequency characteristics, increased efficiency, and increased power.

Abstract: An apparatus that includes a container portion and a coupler portion. The container and coupler are, in one embodiment, mated via an adapter that includes a one-way valve. The coupler includes a second one-way valve. In use, a fluid source, such as a vial, is connected to the coupler. An air source, such as a syringe is also connected to the coupler. Air from the syringe is introduced to the vial via the second one-way valve. The second one-way valve prevents fluid from the vial from being drawn into the syringe. Introduction of air from the syringe into the vial forces fluid from the vial into the container via the first one-way valve. The first one-way valve prevents the fluid from escaping the container.

Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatuses are provided for producing delivery devices, preferably for oral intake of an agent. In the broadest aspect, the method comprises assembling one or more layers comprising one or more materials with an agent or an agent-releasing formulation to form an intergraded, preferably laminated device; folding said integrated delivery device to form a folded integrated delivery device; and at least partially enclosing said folded delivery device to a form suitable for oral delivery. Preferably, the integrated device comprise a first external layer of a first material; a frame of a second material mounted on the first external layer; an agent-releasing formulation housed within the frame; and a second external layer of the first material mounted on the frame.

Abstract: A tablet cassette is provided that can easily adjust the depth etc. of a guide groove of a rotor depending on the size of a tablet to be dispensed. The tablet cassette includes movable pieces that are disposed movably in a radial direction of the rotor in the plurality of tablet guide grooves and form surfaces in the radial direction of the rotor in the tablet guide grooves, and a movable piece moving mechanism that moves the movable pieces in the radial direction of the rotor.

Abstract: Systems and methods for easily tracking medication usage. In one embodiment, a product comprises an adhesive-backed strip that has a set of tracking tabs. The strip is affixed to a medication container such as a pill bottle. The tabs have corresponding identifiers (e.g., days of the week) that are printed on them. When a dose of the medication is taken, the tab corresponding to that dose is torn off of the strip to provide an indication that the dose has been taken.

Abstract: A bottle feeding device, including a bottom piece of a bottle body having a first perimeter wall and a top piece of a bottle body having a second perimeter wall. The top piece is pivotally affixed to the bottom piece and is rotatable with respect to the bottom piece about an axis extending generally orthogonally through the first perimeter wall and the second perimeter wall. A pair of detent feature is provided to restrain the bottom piece and the top piece into either a first relative rotational position or a second relative rotational position. A nipple is operatively affixed to the top piece of the bottle by a nipple ring threaded onto the top piece of the bottle. A method of feeding an infant and of manufacturing the bottle are also provided.

Abstract: A vented baby bottle (28) is disclosed herein and comprises a bottle (30), a nipple (32), a mounting ring (34), and a vent assembly (36). The principle advantage offered by this invention includes decreasing aeration (gas bubbles) in the bottle's fluid by establishing an air passage (168) through the mounting ring into the interior (48) of the bottle. When this air passage is used in combination with a vent assembly having a self closing vent valve (132), the system allows atmospheric air to vent into the interior of the baby bottle when a lower than atmospheric pressure is created within the bottle, thereby preventing the aeration of the fluid contained in the bottle.

Abstract: A gastric port system for transport of materials to the interior of a body cavity that may include a port configured to be disposed between a first body cavity and an area adjacent to the first body cavity. The gastric port system may further include a first bolster disposed on the port where the first bolster includes a magnet, and a second bolster disposed on the port where the second bolster includes a magnet, and the magnets are attracted to each other.

Abstract: A catheter assembly incorporating a pre-biased indicator, the assembly includes a catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and catheter walls defining a catheter lumen. The assembly further includes a base located at the proximal end of the catheter, the base defining an opening to the catheter lumen, the base having a first end and a second end. An inflatable balloon having a predetermined fill volume is located at a distal end of the catheter. An inflation valve is located on the base; the inflation valve is in fluid communication with the balloon through an inflation lumen defined by the catheter walls. The pre-biased indicator located on the base in fluid communication with the balloon is configured to provide a discrete visual signal that the pressure of a fluid in the balloon is different from a predetermined level of pressure or the volume of the balloon is different from the predetermined fill volume.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dental curable composition that can be suitably used as a dental material that can substitute part or all of a natural tooth, in particular, a resin material for dental cutting and machining in the field of dental care. An object of the present invention is to provide a dental curable composition in which, when a block shape usable as a resin material for dental cutting and machining is produced while mechanical properties such as hardness, bending strength and compressive strength as well as aesthetic property required for a crown prosthetic appliance are maintained, the dental curable composition can be molded and processed with pressure and heating while strain generated in the block is reduced and no cracks and chipping occur. There is provided a dental curable composition including (a) a polymerizable monomer and (b) a filler in a weight ratio of 10:90 to 70:30, and including 0.01 to 10 parts by weight of (c) a polymerization initiator and 0.

Abstract: A personal care composition includes a structured cleansing phase; a benefit phase including triglycerides, a cationic deposition polymer, and anionic microcapsules; and a carrier; and methods relating thereto.

Abstract: A microcapsule composition useful in delivering an active material contains a first microcapsule and a second microcapsule. The first microcapsule has a zeta potential of 10 mV or greater, the second microcapsule has a zeta potential of 5 mV or less, and the weight ratio of the first microcapsule and the second microcapsule is between 1:10 and 10:1. Also disclosed are consumer products containing such a microcapsule composition.