Abstract: One embodiment describes an insulin formulation that is specifically adapted for aerosolization. The formulation comprises a major amount of water and a minor amount of insulin. Further, the formulation is preservative free, without meta-cresol, cresol or phenol, to permit the formulation to be aerosolized using a vibrating aperture plate without substantial foaming of the insulin formulation.

Abstract: A respiratory treatment device having an inlet configured to receive exhaled air into the device, an outlet configured to permit exhaled air to exit the device, a valve moveable in response to a threshold exhalation pressure at the inlet between a closed position where the flow of air from the inlet to the outlet is restricted, and an open exhalation position where the flow of air from the inlet to the outlet is less restricted, and a valve brace configured to support the valve, wherein a position of the valve brace relative to the valve is selectively adjustable to increase or decrease the threshold exhalation pressure.

Abstract: A flow generator for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a processor coupled with operation sensors and a user interface. The processor is programmed to generate at least one of time-based or event-based messages relating to at least one of flow generator operation, flow generator service, flow generator use, patient health, peripheral devices and services, patient treatment, and reminders. Time-based messages are generated at predetermined time intervals based on either time of use or elapsed time. The event-based messages are generated based on signals from the operation sensors. The user interface is configured to deliver the messages to at least one of a display, a flow generator service provider, the patient and a physician. By this system, operation of the flow generator is facilitated and enhanced.

Abstract: An anesthesia ventilator, for the automated ventilation of a patient, includes an expiratory port and an inspiratory port for connecting a patient ventilation tube for a breathing gas, a breathing gas delivery unit, a breathing gas volume flow sensor, a breathing gas sensor for detecting a carbon dioxide concentration, a pressure sensor for detecting a pressure of the breathing gas, and a computer. The computer is configured to actuate the breathing gas delivery unit in a first mode of operation as a function of a preset ventilation rate, of the detected pressure and of a preset desired pressure value. The computer is configured to detect the presence of a desired operating state concerning the automated ventilation on the basis of the detected volume flow and of the detected carbon dioxide concentration and to make possible a transition to a second mode of operation in case of detection.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method for automatically controlling inspired oxygen delivery, including: receiving signals representing a plurality of input oxygen saturation (SpO2) values for a patient; generating control values based on the input SpO2 values and a target SpO2 value; and generating output inspired oxygen concentration (FiO2) values based on the control values and reference inspired oxygen concentration (rFiO2) values; wherein the control values include: immediate control values, generated based on the input SpO2 values, the target SpO2 value, and an immediate gain coefficient; accumulation control values, generated based on the input SpO2 values, the target SpO2 value, and an accumulation gain coefficient; and predictive control values, generated based on the input SpO2 values, the target SpO2 value, and a predictive gain coefficient; wherein the immediate gain coefficient is determined based on the rFiO2 value; and wherein a non-linear compensation weighting is applied to the accumulation control val

Abstract: A multi-functional oropharyngeal airway device designed to be inserted into the peripheral portion of a patient's oral airway to establish and maintain that airway. The components comprising the invention are a non-compressible, hollow cylinder body with at least three different and commonly used medical connectors incorporated into the proximal end of the body, and a flexible tube incorporated into the distal end of the body. The specific geometry and inclusion of the components of the airway device are arranged to be inserted and affixed into a peripheral position in a patient's mouth.

Abstract: A multi-functional oropharyngeal airway device designed to be inserted into the peripheral portion of a patient's oral airway to establish and maintain that airway. The components comprising the invention are a non-compressible, hollow cylinder body with at least three different and commonly used medical connectors incorporated into the proximal end of the body, and a flexible tube incorporated into the distal end of the body. The novelty and the utility of this invention is that these components have not, heretofore, ever been incorporated into a single oral device which is designed to be inserted and affixed into a peripheral position in the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A patient interface is configured to deliver a flow of pressurized breathable gas to a patient's airways. The patient interface includes a central portion with an opening configured to deliver the pressurized breathable gas to the patient's nares. A first stabilizing portion extends from the central portion and is structured to engage an outer side of a respective one of the patient's nostrils. A second stabilizing portion is opposite the first stabilizing portion and extends from the central portion. In addition, the second stabilizing surface is structured to engage an outer side of a respective one of the patient's nostrils. The central portion, the first stabilizing portion and the second stabilizing portion cooperate to form a U-shape configured to cradle the patient's nose so that the tip of the patient's nose remains exposed when the patient interface is mounted on the patient's face.

Abstract: A scent delivery system is provided that may provide for a hollow cylinder having a scent cartridge wherein the present invention may provide that air from a breathing machine's air supply hose pass through the scent cartridge and into a breathing mask. In some embodiments, the scent cartridge be connected inline to a breathing machine in-between the machine's air supply hose and the breathing mask. In some embodiments, the scent cartridge may be located on the outside of the cylinder.

Abstract: A oxygen administering system for coupling an oxygen source and a CO2 monitor to a laryngeal mask airway includes a laryngeal mask airway that is inserted into a patient undergoing general anesthesia. An oxygen tube is fluidly coupled to an oxygen source to deliver gaseous oxygen and a CO2 monitor is provided to detect and monitor a flow of carbon dioxide. A coupler is selectively and fluidly coupled to the laryngeal mask airway. The coupler is selectively and fluidly coupled to the oxygen source to direct the gaseous oxygen into the laryngeal mask airway. Moreover, the coupler is in fluid communication with the CO2 monitor to monitor a flow of carbon dioxide that is exhaled through the laryngeal mask airway.

Abstract: A system for thermal regulation of a nebulizer is provided. The system includes a container to house a nebulizer and a thermal material together. The thermal material acts to chill a liquid located inside the nebulizer, in order to deliver a chilled mist to a patient for therapeutic purposes, such as initiating. Therapeutic Hypothermia, or treating various respiratory illnesses such as croup, laryngobronchitis, and smoke inhalation.

Abstract: The method for commanding the production of an acoustic waveform based on a physiological control signal, includes: one provides sampled sound data including S sound samples stored on a data carrier; repeatedly, for n successive respective time intervals [tn; tn+1[ between an initial time ta and a final time tb: one provides a physiological control signal phi(t) as a function of time, during the current time interval [tn; tn+1[; a rate determination module of a processor determines a rate rn of samples to be played during that time interval based on a value phi (tn) of the physiological control signal at time tn; a command module of the processor commands the play of a part of the acoustic waveform from the sampled sound data as a function of the determined rate rn of samples.

Abstract: Ureteral catheters and assemblies are provided including: a proximal portion; and a distal portion, the distal portion including a retention portion, wherein the retention portion includes an inwardly facing side including one or more drainage ports and an outwardly facing side, and wherein, when negative pressure is applied through the ureteral catheter, fluid is drawn into the ureteral catheter through the one or more drainage ports while mucosal tissue is prevented from appreciably occluding the one or more drainage ports.

Abstract: A medical device is configured to treat a body cavity. The medical device includes a tubular sheath portion, a foreign substance capturing catheter configured to be movable inside the sheath portion, the foreign substance capturing catheter having a capturing portion configured to capture a foreign substance inside the body cavity, a treatment catheter configured to be movable inside the foreign substance capturing catheter, the treatment catheter having a treatment portion configured to treat the body cavity. The medical device is configured to be inserted into the body cavity in a state in which the treatment catheter is set inside the foreign substance capturing catheter and the foreign substance capturing catheter is set inside the sheath portion.

Abstract: The various embodiments herein relate to a boosting catheter for positioning through a conventional guiding catheter into the vasculature of a patient, the boosting catheter having a distal tubular member and a proximal elongated shaft coupled to the distal tubular member.

Abstract: A catheter assembly may include a catheter adapter, which may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The distal end may include a catheter configured to be inserted into vasculature of a patient. The catheter assembly may also include a septum, which may be disposed within the lumen of the catheter adapter. The septum may be secured within the lumen in response to increased pressure by one or more of the following: one or more septum stoppers, a retention disc of a needle assembly, a U-shaped washer, and a conical washer.

Abstract: A smoke evacuation tubing assembly includes a base sheet having an adhesive disposed on a top side thereof. An elongate tubing member is operably coupled with a top side of the base sheet and includes a cross-section with first and second opposing rounded sidewalls and first and second generally planar sidewalls disposed between the first and second opposing rounded sidewalls. A plurality of apertures are defined through the first rounded sidewall. A central axis of each aperture is directed downwardly toward the top side of the base sheet. A cover sheet is operably coupled with the top side of the base sheet and is configured to engage the first generally planar sidewall of the elongate tubing member.

Abstract: A deep vein intravenous introducer has a wheel located toward the front end of the device that can be rotated by the index finger of the user. After placement of the needle in the lumen of the vessel, the user rotates the wheel, which advances the wire guide through the center of the needle and into the patient. Once the guide wire is advanced into the vessel lumen the catheter can be advanced over the guide wire with a hub or finger tab on the catheter close to the index finger. The operation can be performed by one hand without moving the hand from its initial position. The user can then simultaneously use the other hand to operate an ultrasound detection device during insertion without the assistance of another person. A catheter is provided that can be visualized by ultrasound to enable confirmation of correct placement in a vessel. A probe cover is provided that is pre-sterilized and packaged in a cardboard with the top sides of the cover folded down over the cardboard.

Abstract: Medical devices, medical device systems, and methods for using the same are disclosed. An example medical device system may include a guide catheter having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The guide catheter may be designed to guide a therapeutic catheter to a target site. A guidewire may be disposed within the lumen of the guide catheter. The system may also include a trap balloon catheter including a catheter shaft and a balloon coupled to the catheter shaft. The trap balloon catheter may be designed to extend through the lumen of the guide catheter to a position adjacent to the distal end of the guide catheter. A trap balloon retainer may be coupled to the catheter shaft. The trap balloon retainer may be designed to prevent a distal end of the trap balloon catheter from extending distally beyond the distal end of the guide catheter.

Abstract: A delivery system includes a catheter, and a drug coated angioplasty balloon mounted on the catheter. The balloon has a wrapped or folded delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration. A protective sleeve surrounds the drug coated balloon in the delivery configuration to minimise wash-off of drug from the balloon during delivery. The protective sleeve is retractable, so that once the drug coated balloon is at or near the treatment site, the sleeve can be retracted to allow the drug coated balloon to operate effectively. The protective sleeve can have a spacer mounted to or integral with the protective sleeve. The spacer in one case can comprise of interior ribs or ridges on the sleeve which minimise the surface area of the sleeve in direct contact with the drug coating on the balloon.

Abstract: An angioplasty catheter comprises a catheter body having a balloon or other radially expandable shell at its distal end. A non-axial external structure is carried over the shell and scores a stenosed region in a blood vessel when the balloon is inflated therein. The catheter has an attachment structure disposed between the catheter body and the balloon to accommodate foreshortening and rotation of the external structure as the balloon is expanded. The external structure may be part of a helical cage structure which floats over the balloon.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a surgical drain securing device for securing a surgical drain to a body without sutures. The surgical drain securing device alleviates patient discomfort associated with suturing the drain to a patient's skin.

Abstract: A shunt can include a primary catheter for receiving fluid, a secondary catheter for receiving fluid, and a pressure-sensitive valve to prevent flow of fluid to the secondary catheter in a first mode until the primary catheter is occluded. The pressure-sensitive valve can transition to a second mode responsive to occlusion of the primary catheter, permitting flow of fluid to the secondary catheter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a morpho-anatomic flexible web (1) intended to be introduced into a vaginal or rectal cavity (40,50) of a human or animal, being provided with means of removal (4) from said vaginal or rectal cavity (40,50), said web (1) having a proximal end which corresponds to the part of the web (1) that first contacts said cavity (40,50) and a distal end which corresponds to the part of the web (1) that last enters said cavity (40,50) and said web (1) comprising two sheets (16,17) that at least partly overlap, defining an overlapping area, wherein said first and second sheets (16,17) are fixed to one another by means of at least two stopping elements (11,12,13), defining at least one pouch (10) in the interior of the overlapping area for holding a substance (60), and wherein said web (1) further comprises at least one blocking element (20) for retaining an applicator (30) in a substantially fixed position relative to the web (1), said blocking element (20) having at least one blocking sid

Abstract: The inventions provided herein relate to tissue markers and uses thereof, e.g., to mark a target tissue site (e.g., a biopsy site in a breast tissue) or to produce a cell scaffold. The tissue markers described herein are designed to be resistant to fast migration (e.g., immediate migration after implantation through a needle track) and slow migration (e.g., over an extended period of time) upon implantation at a target tissue site (e.g., a biopsy site in a breast tissue), without using an adhesive. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue markers described herein can be readily detectable by at least one imaging modality, e.g., but not limited to magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray imaging, ultrasound imaging, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: The inventions provided herein relate to injection applicators, tissue markers and uses thereof, e.g., to mark a target tissue site (e.g., a biopsy site in a breast tissue) or to produce a cell scaffold. The tissue markers described herein are designed to be resistant to fast migration (e.g., immediate migration after implantation through a needle track) and slow migration (e.g., over an extended period of time) upon implantation at a target tissue site (e.g., a biopsy site in a breast tissue), without using an adhesive. Additionally or alternatively, the tissue markers described herein can be readily detectable by at least one imaging modality, e.g., but not limited to magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray imaging, ultrasound imaging, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: Embodiments are disclosed of a method of controlling timing and/or dosage of a transdermal drug patch. For example, a control device operative to move the patch to one or more of a plurality of operational relationships with a skin of a patient, including being fully engaged with the skin, partially engaged with the skin, and disengaged with the skin. The device may include a roller that peels a patch on and off the skin. Optionally a convention patch is used. In some embodiments a patch and/or an adaptor has a mobile zone and an immobile zone. In some embodiments, an active surface of the patch fully contacts the skin in an engaged state. For example the patch may be attached to the device on a passive portion thereof.

Abstract: Systems and methods of localizing or delivery cells, biologics and/or drugs to a specific target area to treat pelvic health disorders are provided. A treatment composition including cells, biologics and/or drugs are associated with magnetic particulates, and the positioning of these materials is facilitated through use of a magnetic field-generating device that is configured to be placed on or into a pelvic anatomical structure. Certain embodiments directed to the treatment of ED in male patients can include a cell based therapy system.

Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable medical port and methods of using the implantable medical port to deliver and/or to withdraw a desired agent, such as medicines, treatments, or any other fluid into and/or from a body of a subject. The implantable medical port includes two or more needle-penetrable septum portions to provide an increased needle penetration area. Also provided is an implantable medical port having a fluid cavity the contains a substantially needle-impenetrable member that prevents a needle from inadvertently puncturing or otherwise damaging a septum portion other than the septum portion that was initially punctured to gain access to the fluid cavity.

Abstract: A method of making an access port, includes providing a port body defining a fluid cavity, positioning a septum over the fluid cavity, and securing the septum to the port body. The septum includes a lower portion having a first diameter, an upper portion joined to the lower portion at a juncture, the upper portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter at the juncture, and a plurality of palpation features joined to the upper portion. Each of the palpation features includes a first end adjacent a central axis of the septum, and a second end extending radially outward, overlapping the juncture.

Abstract: A luer lock adaptor including a housing defining an axis, an internal luer lock element having a threading, the internal luer lock element being located internally of the housing and being rotatably mounted thereto for rotation about the axis relative to the housing, in a manner which permits rotation of the luer lock element relative to the housing in a first rotation direction about the axis and limits rotation of the luer lock element relative to the housing in a second rotation direction about the axis, opposite to the first rotation direction, whereby the location of the internal luer lock element internally of the housing prevents manual access to the internal luer lock element for limiting rotation thereof in the first rotation direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a blocking and/or restricting valve having a valve housing which has a fluid system having a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a fluid chamber arranged therebetween, wherein the fluid chamber comprises a blocking geometry and is bounded by a barrier membrane with respect to the blocking geometry, wherein the barrier membrane is connected to a tappet on its side remote from the fluid chamber (8) such that it can be pressed toward the blocking geometry by a movement of the tappet and can be lifted thereby, and wherein the tappet is arranged in a freely floating manner in a hollow space of the valve housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hose clamp for a blood treatment device, wherein the hose clamp has a housing (4) and an electromagnetically driven compression piece (1), with the electromagnetic drive of the compression piece (1) being configured such that the compression piece (1) is opened against a mechanical restoring force (A) in a state of the hose clamp with an applied current and is closed by the mechanical restoring force (A) in a currentless state of the hose clamp; wherein the hose clamp has, in addition to the electromechanical drive, a mechanical actuator (5) with which the compression piece (1) can be opened manually against the mechanical restoring force (A) in the currentless state of the hose clamp; and wherein the contact elements (6, 7) of the actuator (5) and of the compression piece (1) are configured such that they form a mechanical connection between the actuator (5) and the compression piece (1) after an opening of the compression piece (1) in the currentless state, said connection prevent

Abstract: Device for treating human keratinous material, in particular with the aid of an electric current.

Abstract: A device for sensing biofluid placed on skin with at least one pre-existing pathway includes a first analyte-specific sensor for sensing a first analyte in the biofluid and a volume-reduced pathway between skin and the first analyte-specific sensor configured to allow an advective flow of the biofluid from the at least one pre-existing pathway toward the first analyte-specific sensor. The first analyte-specific sensor does not consume the first analyte. The device further includes an iontophoresis electrode and a counter electrode for bringing the first analyte into the at least one pre-existing pathway. The biofluid may be more than 50% interstitial fluid or more than 50% sweat. The device may also include at least one of a wicking collector, a wicking coupler, or a wicking pump.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an implantable lead includes forming an elongated lead body core that defines a longitudinal axis. The elongated lead body core has a plurality of axially extending channels that are circumferentially spaced apart from one another around the elongated lead body core. The method also includes positioning an electrode ring around the elongated lead body core and electrical conductors. The method includes positioning a respective electrical conductor in each of the axially extending channels and positioning a dielectric insulator ring around the elongated lead body core and electrical conductors.

Abstract: Systems and methods for ruggedized neural probes are provided. Such probes may be adapted for penetrating tissue. An exemplary ruggedized penetrating electrode array system includes an elongate shank having one or more electrodes disposed on at least one exterior surface thereof and a backend structure. A proximal end of the elongate shank is secured to the backend structure. The exemplary array system further includes an elongate carrier secured to the backend structure and extending away from the backend structure toward the distal end of the elongate shank, the elongate carrier being more rigid than the elongate shank. Methods for fabricating such an array system are also provided.

Abstract: A temporary pacing lead has an atraumatic curled distal region with multiple cathodes and distal pressure measurement to allow positioning and repositioning within the heart chamber without fluoroscopic or echo guidance. The curled distal region provides definite contact with two opposing walls of the ventricular chamber to ensure electrical signal capture without trauma to the endocardial surface. A stylet located in the pacing lead lumen assists in introducing, placing, and removing the pacing lead from the heart. The flexible distal region provides safe removal of the temporary lead following completion of use.

Abstract: A cochlea electrode arrangement, system and method for enhancing musical melody perception. On each cochlear basilar membrane, according to the characteristic frequency correspondence of music notes, a phonosensitive full spectrum band corresponding to the cochlea apex to cochlea base is divided into musical response areas in response to specific musical note stimulating signals; a corresponding electrode for conducting or sensing frequency band signals is placed in each musical response area, namely, each electrode is placed in the corresponding characteristic frequency band where the music notes are located, the electrodes are divided into two groups, and a corresponding group of electrodes is implanted into cochleae on two sides respectively. Due to the fact that the electrodes are arranged in the cochleae on the two sides, the cochlea electrode arrangement is easy to implement, and the electrodes arranged in the cochleae on the two sides can perceive music better.

Abstract: A medical electrode array system comprising a thin-film substrate, a plurality of electrode contacts disposed on the thin-film substrate, and a plurality of traces. The plurality of electrode contacts is configured to provide electrical contact points. The plurality of traces is electrically connected to the plurality of electrode contacts. A electrode contact of the plurality of electrode contacts has a dedicated trace of the plurality of traces that provides electrical connectivity to the electrode contact. The thin-film substrate is configured to flex to maintain continuous contact with contours of patient anatomy. The plurality of traces includes flexible spring-like portions to add flexibility to the thin-film substrate.

Abstract: An anchoring device for anchoring an implantable medical device to tissue of a patient, wherein the anchoring device comprises: an annular member, a plurality of elongated tines connected to the annular member and protruding from the annular member, wherein the annular member comprises at least one stretchable first section that is stretchable along a peripheral direction of the annular member. Further, the invention relates to an implantable medical device (e.g., an implantable cardiac pacemaker) comprising such an anchoring device.

Abstract: Methods are described comprising: administering to a mammal with a paralysis an electrical enabling motor control stimulation to at a sub-threshold location, wherein the electrical enabling motor control stimulation provides spontaneous voluntary movement of at least one body part.

Abstract: A device including a cochlear implant electrode array and an apparatus configured to sense a phenomenon of fluid in a cochlea, wherein the apparatus and the electrode array are a single unit.

Abstract: A system for restoring muscle function to the lumbar spine to treat low back pain is provided. The system may include electrodes coupled to an implantable pulse generator (IPG), a handheld activator configured to transfer a stimulation command to the IPG, and an external programmer configured to transfer programming data to the IPG. The stimulation command directs the programmable controller to stimulate the tissue in accordance with the programming data. The system may include a software-based programming system run on a computer such that the treating physician may program and adjust stimulation parameters.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for managing pain uses separate varying electromagnetic fields, with a variety of temporal and amplitude characteristics, which are applied to a particular neural structure to modulate glial and neuronal interactions as a mechanism for relieving chronic pain. In another embodiment, a single composite modulation/stimulation signal which has rhythmically varying characteristics is used to achieve the same results as separate varying electromagnetic fields. Also, disclosed is an apparatus and method for modulating the expression of genes involved in diverse pathways including inflammatory/immune system mediators, ion channels and neurotransmitters, in both the Spinal Cord (SC) and Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) where such expression modulation is caused by spinal cord stimulation or peripheral nerve stimulation using the disclosed apparatus and techniques.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for detecting hyperkinetic state by measuring brain activity of a patient suffering from a movement disorder. Also provided are methods for modulating therapy in patients suffering from a movement disorder. Aspects of the methods include measuring activity in brain of the patient and changing a treatment regimen if hyperkinetic state is detected. Also provided are devices, systems, and kits that may be used in practicing the subject methods.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an active medical device which includes a generator for producing multiphase nerve stimulation pulse trains, each pulse train including at least one stimulation pulse preceded by a precharge pulse and ending with a passive discharge pulse. The active medical device also includes a sensor configured to output a control signal representative of a physiological and/or physical parameter capable of being influenced by the output of nerve stimulation pulse trains. The active medical device also includes an automatic charge compensation control circuit configured to receive at the input the control signal output by the sensor, determine an amplitude and/or a precharge pulse time as a function of at least one predetermined criterion, and output to the generator a precharge pulse control signal to be produced at the output.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) telemetry arrangement and process for a cochlear implant system are described. Electrode current is measured that is induced in a cochlear implant electrode lead during an MRI process performed on an implanted patient. An MRI telemetry signal for an external telemetry sensor is then output based on the measured electrode current.

Abstract: In some examples, a feedthrough assembly a ferrule including a base portion and at least one projection extending from the base portion; a capacitive filter positioned adjacent the base portion of the ferrule such that an outer wall of the capacitive filter faces an inner wall of the at least one projection of the ferrule; a conductive pin extending through an aperture in the ferrule and an aperture in the capacitive filter; and an electrically conductive material between the inner wall of the at least one projection of the ferrule and outer wall of the capacitive filter that electrically couples the ferrule and the capacitive filter to ground the capacitive filter, wherein the inner wall of the at least one projection of the ferrule and the outer wall of the capacitive filter are tapered.

Abstract: Method and systems for optimizing acoustic energy transmission in implantable devices are disclosed. Transducer elements transmit acoustic locator signals towards a receiver assembly, and the receiver responds with a location signal. The location signal can reveal information related to the location of the receiver and the efficiency of the transmitted acoustic beam received by the receiver. This information enables the transmitter to target the receiver and optimize the acoustic energy transfer between the transmitter and the receiver. The energy can be used for therapeutic purposes, for example, stimulating tissue or for diagnostic purposes.